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Tag: #Peter Odey

  • Cross River Govt Celebrates Leboku 2023, Calls On Yakurr People To Maintain Peace

    Cross River Govt Celebrates Leboku 2023, Calls On Yakurr People To Maintain Peace

    By Fred Abua 

    The State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, has called on the indigenous people of Yakurr to maintain peace as Cross River State continues to record giant strides in the tourism sector. The Governor who made this call during the 2023 Leboku Festival in Ugep urged the celebrants to give tourists and visitors who were in the community for the celebrations a memorable stay by shunning violence.

    The Governor, represented at the event by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, pointed out that Leboku had been added to the State’s Cultural Calendar many years ago to boost the state’s tourism potential. He said it was “a known fact that since then and with the support of other partners and sponsors, the festival has continued to grow, year in year out”. He promised that the present administration will make the festival even better by securing the buy-in of the Federal Government.

    Earlier at the Palace of the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr, the Deputy Governor highlighted the state’s commitment to fostering a positive relationship with the people of Yakurr and praised the Paramount Ruler for the peaceful coexistence in the community. He assured of the governor’s presence in the next edition of the Leboku International New Yam Festival.

    Responding, the Paramount Ruler, Obol Lopon of Ugep, HRM (Dr) Obol Ofem Ubana, described the Leboku New Yam festival is a season of plenty and a time to celebrate abundance and survival after the planting season’s hardships. He noted that the Yakurr people had kept this tradition over the years and friendships had been forged between people during this celebration. He said prices of foodstuff will go down following the celebration.

    The Obol Lopon expressed satisfaction with the present State Government, stating that although the administration was new, it had acted like an old and experienced Government by providing everything needed for the celebration to be successful and hitch-free.

    The colorful festival featured various events such as a parade by the Maidens of Yakurr, traditional wrestling, August Women International and the presentation of car prizes to Mr. Leboku 2023 and Miss Leboku 2023 and the Chief harvester. Other consolation prizes were awarded to the first and second runners-up.

  • Gov Otu Lauds Hon Victor Abang ‘Mature’

    Gov Otu Lauds Hon Victor Abang ‘Mature’

    By Fred Abua

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu has congratulated the Member Representing Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. (Chief) Victor Bisong Abang, on his election victory and successful commencement of his term at the House.

    Speaking at the Thanksgiving Mass/Reception held at Akwagom, the Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, described Hon. Victor Abang as an example of a man who loved God. He praised Hon. Abang’s sacrifices for the work of God, particularly the Catholic Church. The Governor disclosed that it was when Hon. Abang stepped down from the APC primaries for the sake of peace that God chose to give it to him. He called on those who were in court to challenge Hon. Abang’s mandate to have a rethink because it was already ordained that he will complete the term. The Governor praised Hon. Abang’s work in the House of Representatives as the work of a man who thinks about the people.

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, Bishop Donatus Etim, who was not physically present sent words of congratulations assuring the Member of Parliament that he will continue to uplift the Member in prayers. In his words, ‘by entrusting you with their votes, the people have expressed their belief in your ability to bring about positive change, uplift their social well being and champion their interests. Do not disappoint them.’

    The Chief of Staff, Hon Emmanuel Ironbar, said Hon. Victor Abang, popularly called ‘Mature’ by his fans and friends, was a man to be emulated to get the kind of results the Member was getting in his life. Ironbar said the man worked for God and God is working for him.

    ‘Mature’ who was moved to tears by the massive support of priests, politicians, community leaders, family and friends, pledged that he will give his people quality representation at the House of Representatives. He said he had already sponsored 2 bills for the siting of federal educational institutions in Okunde and Ikom within only 67 days in office adding that within a short time, the constituency will be heard across the nation.

    Hon. Victor Abang who presented a car to each of the APC Chapter Chairmen of Ikom and Boki also gave several motorcycles to his constituents and led his friends and guests to make donations towards the building of a school within the church premises.

    Dignitaries who attended the ceremony included MP, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Odere, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Abubakar Ewa, Commissioner for Information, Mr. Erasmus Ekpang, Member Representing Boki 1 in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Bette Obi, Gen. Moses Obi (Rtd), Prof. Zana Akpagu, amongst others.

  • Gov Otu Begins Plans Towards Carnival Calabar 2023

    Gov Otu Begins Plans Towards Carnival Calabar 2023

    By Fred Abua, Esq

    Carnival Calabar an event that showcases the cultural heritage of Cross River State and Nigeria at large is 21 Years Old.

    The State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, recently received a team of Turkish Investors interested in investing in the Carnival Calabar. The Governor said “after 20 years, Carnival Calabar, like any other longstanding investment was due for rejigging, relaunching and reimagining .”

    The Turkish team of investors which met separately with the Governor and the Deputy Governor went on an inspection tour of the 12km Carnival Route with the Chairman of the Tourism and Culture Cluster of the Transition Committee, Mr. Gabe Onah, and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Development, Mrs. Eme Afiah. The group was accompanied by the Director of Tourism, Mr. Ekpenyong Ojoi, Mr. Thomas Ikpeme, Mr. Mathias Amgba, amongst others.

    The Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who later received the visiting team in his office in the company of the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem and the Member representing Akamkpa 2 State Constituency, Hon. Linus Etim, said Calabar Carnival was the most colorful in the world comparable only to that of Brazil.

    Hon. Odey assured the Turkish team of their security and the Governor’s commitment to ensuring that Cross River regains her place as Number 1 Tourism Destination in Nigeria.

    He said Cross River State was the most welcoming group of people in the world while eulogizing the Head of the Culture and Tourism Cluster, Mr. Gabe Onah who had sold the Carnival to the world and led the brand for more than 16 years.

    Agreeing with the earlier position of the Governor, Hon. Odey said it was time to move the Carnival Calabar brand from its routine to the next level and expressed faith that the partnership would ensure that the 2023 carnival is the best ever.

    Speaking at the event, Mr. Gabe Onah, presented the team from GL Events who he said were in Calabar to introduce the hidden areas that will make the brand self-sustaining to achieve its primary objectives and opined that after 21 years, Carnival Calabar had come of age. He expressed confidence in GL Events who had organized global events including the African Nations Cup.

    He said carnival bands were private sector-driven and ought to be self-sponsoring; this innovation will ensure that the bands stop depending on Government.

    Accompanied by Mr Ikechi Uko , the consultant to the international carnival , Ms Umran Alinak and Seda Diker, representatives of GL Events said they had come to Calabar to inspect and tell the story of Carnival Calabar by themselves. They added that a larger team would return to Calabar by September to prepare for the Carnival in December.

    Diker promised that their group was ready to make Carnival Calabar global having organized events like the world cup and the likes of the Super Ball.

    In his comments , the organizer of Akwaba Africa Travel Market , Mr Ikechi Uko observed that, from all indications, Carnival Calabar 2023 has the potential to maintain her lead as the foremost cultural event in Nigeria after Afrobeat and Nollywood to open up Nigeria in positive ways beyond Africa to the whole world.

     

  • Earthwheel Group Set To Mine Lithium In Cross River State

    Earthwheel Group Set To Mine Lithium In Cross River State

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu, has assured the Earthwheel Group from China of Security and an enabling environment to conduct their mining and manufacturing business in Cross River State. The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor when the Earth Will Group paid him a visit on Monday, 17th July, 2023, told the group that Cross River State was happy to have them in the state and assured them of support while praising the group for making Corporate Social Responsibility a prominent part of their business plan. The Governor said the administration was very keen on the development of Cross River State, which was why the group received the Governor’s attention even on short notice.

    Addressing the Governor earlier, the leader of the Earthwheel delegation, Dr. Otu Archibong, said their group, which was already working in Tanzania, had been issued a license by the Federal Government to mine lithium in Cross River State. He assured the Governor that Earthwheel was not only interested in mining but in manufacturing and so the group was ready to set up a battery making factory in the state.

    Speaking later to Government House Press, the Regional Head of Earthwheel Group, Evangelist Ezekiel Usonguyo, said the group was going to produce batteries for phones, cars, computers and electric cars which were the future of automobile in Nigeria. He said the company was going to employ 90% of its workers from the host community and provide social amenities like roads and water for the people. He sued that insecurity has sent investors out of many regions and called on the Government to continue to keep the state safe for investors. He assured the State Government that their group will not engage in illegality by mining other products that they are not licensed to.

  • Deputy Governor Pledges Youth Inclusion In Government

    Deputy Governor Pledges Youth Inclusion In Government

    By Fred Abua

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has assured members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, of the administration’s commitment to youth inclusion in governance. During the visit which held in his office on Wednesday, July 12th, 2023, Hon. Odey emphasized that although the administration might not appoint a large number of individuals to office, its agricultural programs would positively impact a significant portion of the state’s population.

    Hon. Odey expressed the view that young people should position themselves for leadership as a good number of youths will take up key positions in the Government, stating that young people like Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and Dr. Betta Edu who both hold national positions were propelled into the limelight when they distinguished themselves while holding executive positions in Cross River State as youths.

    Expressing his commitment to the group, the Deputy Governor assured them that their constituency would receive due attention during the current administration. He also lamented the prevalence of election petitions and shared his personal experiences of facing defeat in previous elections. Each setback, he emphasized, became an opportunity to regroup and re-strategize.

    Hon. Odey revealed to the group that he gave early support for the “Back-To-South” campaign unaware at the time that he would eventually be chosen as the Deputy Governor. He assured the youths of his intention to extend similar support to other zones when their time comes.

    Speaking earlier, the State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Dan Obo, who led the delegation reiterated the support of his group, stating that the youths had supported the “Back to South” agenda and were now poised to support the “Back to Us” agenda which aims to place more young individuals in prominent government positions

    The Speaker of the Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Victor Kijuo, and the Chairman of the State Advisory Council, Comrade Ndiyo Ndiyo, expressed their satisfaction with having a youth serving as the Deputy Governor of Cross River State. They expressed their gratitude and pledged to continue seeking the Deputy Governor’s guidance. They emphasized that while election success is significant, the true measure of achievement lies in the actions and accomplishments during the government’s tenure.

    The event, which was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths and Skills Acquisition, Dr. Sam Egbala, featured the singing of the solidarity song “Aluta” and the presentation of an award by the National Youth Council of Nigeria.

  • Odey Commends World Bank Funded APPEALS Project

    Odey Commends World Bank Funded APPEALS Project

    By Ukongikwen Adie

    The World Bank Agro Processing, Productivity, Enhancement and Livelihood improvement Support Project (APPEALS PROJECT) made up of the Task Team Leader, Mr. Manievel Sene, the National Project Coordinator, Mohammed Sani Jobdi, the State Project Coordinator Mr Marcel Agim and other high ranking officers called on the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Prince Bassey Otu, who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey.

    Speaking during the visit, Hon Peter Odey first appreciated the APPEALS Project leader and his team for the support given Cross River State. He conveyed the Governor’s commitment towards the project while assuring the team that they will continue to get the needed support because part of their mission is to commission the projects within the administration’s 100 days in office.

    Odey stated that having worked at the United Nations Development Programme, he is conversant with how donor- funded projects work. He assured the team that he will strive to see that Cross Riverians are not left behind. He added that as head of the State Steering Committee, he will go further to identify those contractors delaying the projects in order to give them the needed push to ensure that they deliver.

    Earlier, the Task Team Leader, Mr. Manievel Sene, thanked the governor for the support the project has received, while appealing for more support so that the projects can be completed early in August otherwise the funds will have to be returned to the World Bank and the opportunity for more funding will be lost.

    Also speaking, the National Project Coordinator Mohammed Sani Jobdi, thanked Sen Bassey Otu, for his timely intervention which will go a long way to add value to the the lives of Cross Riverians.

    On his part, the State Coordinator, Mr. Marcel Agim, said the project has done well so far with the efforts of the National office and Directors from the respective Federal Ministries who have done a lot to support the project. He added that since the assumption of the present administration, there has been very significant improvement and plenty of jubilation since His Excellency, Senator Bassey Otu directed that the restrictions on the project accounts be removed. He solicited the that the zeal he has shown should be sustained in the few months left to enable the APPEALS Project finished strong.

    He said many Cross Riverians can now afford their daily meals and send their children to school because of farms and agric businesses that they have. They have also become entrepreneurs because the APPEALS Project assisted in registering their companies.

    Others present during the visit are: Chidozie Onyedikachi, Mrs Eucharia Nonye Osakwe (Financial Management Specialist)
    Dr. Salisu Garba (Project Operations Manager) Jummai Hashima (National Projects Accountant) and Alhaji Bukar Mussa (Director PCU-FMARD)

  • Peter Odey Pledges Government Response To The Needs Of Ukelle Nation

    Peter Odey Pledges Government Response To The Needs Of Ukelle Nation

    By Charity Ohotu

    The Cross River State Deputy Governor, Hon Peter Odey has pledged government’s commitment to respond to the needs of Ukelle Nation.

    The Deputy Governor made the pledge in his office when the leadership of Ukelle paid him a courtesy visit.

    Hon Odey acknowledge the concerns of the Ukelle people for infrastructural development in the area and sued for unity and cooperation.

    He pledged Sen Bassey Otu’s commitment to the plight of Ukelle Nation and will respond positively to their needs.

    Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Rt. Hon Ogana Lukpata, noted that it was necessary that Ukelle nation identifies with the Deputy Governor having been elevated to the position of Deputy Governor. He Reminisced on the long term relationship and bond that has existed between them and held that the time to strengthen the bond is now more than ever.

    Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr Julius Okputu, PhD, noted that Ukelle Nation had suffered infrastructural decay in the past and use the opportunity to call on the Deputy Governor to rise to the challenge to give hope to Ukelle Nation.

    Okputu held that the guiding light of righteousness, justice, truth and love should guide the decisions that this government will make for the benefit of the people.

  • Support Groups Celebrates Gov Bassey Otu, Deputy

    Support Groups Celebrates Gov Bassey Otu, Deputy

    APC Support Groups in Cross River State have held a victory celebration in honor of the Governor of the State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu and his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, following the recent resounding election victory in March.

    Speaking at the event which held at the Dome in the Calabar Municipal Council Premises, the Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey thanked the support groups for their resilience stating that although the candidates in the election could not be in every street and every village, the support groups were everywhere to secure victory at the grassroots. He pledged that the supporters will never regret their support of this mandate as the people-first agenda will surely be fulfilled, assuring them of his track record as a people-oriented leader from his time as Member of House of Representatives, Senator and now Governor.

    The Governor assured the supporters that this was indeed the beginning of the season of sweetness because in this era, no one will be left behind, instead the hard work of supporters will be rewarded as exemplified by the few well-considered appointments that have already been made.

    In his opening remark, the Chairman of the occasion, High Chief, Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, appreciated the organizing committee and recognized the physically challenged and all those who had taken great risks for what they believed in. He said the celebration was a sign of victory amongst the major APC Support Groups in the State. He encouraged all to stand firm for what they believe in because hitting the ground running might often involve being dropped into muddy ground which will take time to get moving. He assured the audience that their expectations from the government will come to pass given the pedigree of the Governor.

    Prof. Etim Nyong said the efforts of the various support groups at the grassroots levels expanded the victory of the party and that though every individual might not benefit directly, the various communities will all benefit. Speaking, further, Prof. Nyong said the state hand moved from the era of food on the table to that of product on the table. Concluding, he warned that in 2027, the APC will not be preaching ‘Back to South’ as it would be expected that we should leverage on this 4-year opportunity we now have.

    Dr. Bassey Ekpenyong, who delivered the keynote address at the event suggested that for the new administration to achieve its set objectives, certain features of good governance must be considered. Expressing confidence in Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu who had long distinguished himself through his contributions to charity and humanitarian efforts, Dr. Ekpenyong said the Governor Ben Ayade government had provided an industrial drive which would be the foundation for the Senator Bassey Otu government to build on.

    Speaking at the event, the Secretary to the State Government thanked the support groups and praised the character of the Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu.

    Highlights of the event included musical perfomances, cutting of cake, unveiling of the victory gift and goodwill messages by supporters.

  • Otu Flags Off 2023 Insecticidal Treated Nets Mass Campaign, First Round Of Maternal Newborn And Child Health Week

    Otu Flags Off 2023 Insecticidal Treated Nets Mass Campaign, First Round Of Maternal Newborn And Child Health Week

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu, today officially flagged off the 2023 Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) Mass Distribution Campaign and First Round of Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW) at Channel View Hotels, Calabar. This biannual campaign aims to reduce child mortality by combating malaria in pregnant women and newborns, ensuring that each household possesses Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) as a protective measure against malaria-carrying mosquitoes.

    The integration of the Insecticide Treated Net campaign with the Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW) guarantees that expectant mothers and newborns in Cross River State have access to a comprehensive range of health services. These services include immunizations, postnatal and prenatal care, family planning, counseling on nutrition, and other essential healthcare provisions.

    About 2.9 million ITNs will be distributed across 1027 designated points in the state, encompassing churches, schools, health centers, and other designated locations. Therefore, all parents and pregnant women are strongly advised to visit these designated locations to receive their ITNs.

    During his address, the Governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, emphasized the severity of malaria as an ongoing public health challenge. He stated that, “Malaria as we all know is a monster that has been living with us for a very long time. Today, as we speak someone where is dying of malaria. If we don’t take responsibility, no one will do it.” The Governor stressed that the success of the campaign relies not only on the distribution of ITNs but also on the conscientious utilization of these nets by every expectant mother and child for a healthier future in Cross River State.

    In her speech, the wife of the Cross River State Governor, Her Excellency, Rev. Mrs. Eyoawan Edet Otu, graciously accepted her role as the Net Ambassador for Cross River State. She pledged to “be the role model for correct and consistent usage of ITNs, and will strive to mobilize support in providing an enabling environment for malaria programmes to be implemented”.

    The event was graced by the presence of the US President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), a major donor agency, and its implementing partners, including UNICEF, USAID, and WHO. Also in attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, the Head of Service, Mr. Timothy Akwaji, and many other dignitaries.

    Highlights of the ceremony included the symbolic presentation of an ITN to the Deputy Governor for distribution, the investiture of Rev. Mrs. Eyoawan Bassey Otu as the Cross River State Net Ambassador, a net hang-up demonstration by the Demand Team, and captivating traditional dance performances.

  • Meet My Boss, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Odey BY FRED ABUA

    Meet My Boss, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Odey BY FRED ABUA

    MEET MY NEW BOSS, HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. PETER ODEY

    His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, a distinguished statesman, was born in Ogoja, Cross River State, in the early 70s. He served two terms as a member and leader of the Cross River State House of Assembly from 2015 to 2023 when he was elected Deputy Governor.

    Prior to the commencement of his political career, Rt. Hon. Odey held a significant role as a Conflict Adviser at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), working in Kuwait, Sudan, and Nigeria. He also served as the Head of Risk Management and Security at the Foreign Office in the British High Commission, displaying his expertise in global affairs.

    The astute yet unassuming politician holds two Bachelor’s degrees from the University of Calabar, one in Sociology and the other in Civil Law. He also holds two Masters’ degrees in Political Sociology from the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, and International Relations with specialization in Peace and Conflict Resolution from the London Metropolitan University. He is currently at the concluding stages of a PhD in Peace Studies and Conflict Management.

    With his multidisciplinary background in sociology, law, international relations, and conflict resolution, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey seems to be exceptionally prepared for his role and is clearly an outstanding choice for the position of Deputy Governor. His diverse educational pursuits have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the pertinent issues in governance and public policy, and the people of Cross River State can expect great things from his wealth of knowledge.

    Another notable strength of Hon. Peter Odey lies in his extensive experience. Having served as a lawmaker for eight years and worked as a conflict adviser at a respected UN agency, he has gained invaluable knowledge and skills that position him as a competent leader.

    His wealth of experience, exposure, and academic standing provide this polished, vibrant and loyal leader with the necessary tools to contribute to the progress and development of the state. Rt. Hon. Peter Odey will add value to the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Bassey Otu, who himself is also a sociologist and a lawmaker with 12 years in the National Assembly. Senator Bassey Otu’s years in banking and the petroleum industry will all come to play to bring to realization his People-First agenda for Cross River State.

    It is both my honor and privilege to serve on this team for the good of our dear state.

    Fred Abua, Esq
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor,
    Cross River State