Hon. Egbala Bassey’s First Month Scorecard: Key Engagements and Achievements in ABI Local Government Area.

By Imoke Etorti

Introduction

In his first month as Executive Chairman of ABI Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Chief Egbala Bassey has charted a remarkable course of leadership, centered in vision, action, and community engagement. His events-packed month of November, 2024 started from receiving his certificate of Return from CROSIEC, to his official swearing-in, to official handing over and receival of Administrative documents and notes from ABI HOLGA, to his 3 days needs assessment tour and evaluation of the extent of inherited liabilities related to deteriorating infrastructure, to collaboration for strengthening security, flag off of a transformative initiative like the ABI/Yakurr Free Medical Outreach, among others, characterized Hon. Egbala’s inaugural month.

To this end, put forward, is a chronicle of the milestones and key events that have shaped his dynamic start in office, as he sets a new standard for governance in ABI LGA.

The Round-up of key events:

On Sunday, November 3, 2024,-Presentation of Certificate of Return by CROSIEC. Hon. Chief Egabla Bassey made a visit to the CROSIEC office, where he was presented with his certificate of return following his declaration as the duly elected Executive Chairman of ABI Local Government Area (LGA). Signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the progress and development of ABI LGA.

The following day, Monday, November 4, 2024, – Official Swearing-in of LGA Chairmen and Vice. Hon. Bassey, accompanied by his Vice, Hon. Joseph Ukata, attended their swearing-in ceremony at the Governor’s temporary office, Dan Archibong Lodge, Calabar. Sworn in by Governor Otu, they were formally entrusted with the mandate to lead and serve their community. The ceremony was followed by a vibrant reception at Tenny Homes, Ekorinim, Calabar, further celebrating this significant moment.

On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, – A 3-day Needs Assessment tour Across ABI. Hon. Bassey resumed office and commenced a comprehensive 3-day needs assessment tour of ABI LGA. During this tour, he inspected various Council infrastructures, including the Administrative Block, Legislative Chambers, several departmental buildings, business facilities, the Council Guest House, and the Itigidi Police Station, all as part of his commitment to understanding the LGA’s needs.

By Thursday, November 7, 2024,-Inspection of Bahumonu Ring Road and Health Facilities. The ABI Chairman had extended his inspection to Afafanyi/Igonigoni, where he observed the dire conditions of the local Primary Healthcare facilities and the deteriorating state of the Bahumono ring road, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructural improvements.

On Friday, November 8, 2024, Synergy for strengthening Security in ABI. Hon. Bassey held crucial security discussions with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Itigidi Police Station and the Commanding Officer of the Recce Battalion of the Nigerian Army, Afi Barracks, Ikom, Colonel A. A. Adeboye. These strategic deliberations aimed to strengthen security collaboration and foster greater synergy to ensure the safety and wellbeing of ABI LGA residents.

Monday, November 11, 2024 – The Official Handover Ceremony
Hon. Egbala Bassey marked the beginning of his administration with a formal acceptance of key documents from Mrs. Akei Ani, the Head of the Local Government Administration (HOLGA). The occasion symbolized the smooth transition of leadership in ABI LGA, a milestone that promises a fresh start and greater progress for the community.

Tuesday, November 12, 2024 – Inauguration of the 8th ABI Legislative Assembly
The political landscape of ABI LGA saw a historic moment with the inauguration of the 8th ABI Legislative Assembly at the Legislative Chambers. The event was a vibrant blend of political and cultural celebration, drawing a large crowd of supporters, dignitaries, and well-wishers, all gathered to witness this pivotal transition in local governance.

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 – Flagging Off the Free Medical Outreach Program
A defining moment in Hon. Egbala’s week came with the launch of the transformative ABI/Yakurr Free Medical Outreach Program in Agbara and Ngarabe, Ekureku, ABI LGA. Spearheaded by Chief Dr. Alex Egbona, Member of the House of Representatives for ABI/Yakurr Federal Constituency, this life-changing initiative brought healthcare to underserved communities. Later that day, Hon. Egbala visited Nko for the next phase of the medical outreach, where he was joined by Hon. Yibala Igri, Executive Chairman of Yakurr LGA, further bolstered the reach and impact of the program.

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 (continued) – Meeting with the Chairman Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council.
The same day, Hon. Egbala Bassey engaged in a crucial courtesy visit to HRM Ovai Elder Osim Edward JP, Chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, in Usumutong. The meeting focused on forging stronger ties between ABI’s traditional institutions and the local government, with an emphasis on collaborative efforts for fostering peace and sustainable development within ABI LGA.

Friday, November 15, 2024 – Hosting the Imabana Phase of the Free Medical Outreach Program.
Hon. Egbala Bassey played host to the Imabana phase of the Free Medical Outreach Program, another significant effort led by Chief Dr. Alex Egbona. As a dedicated leader, Hon. Egbala ensured that patients had access to vital medical services, personally overseeing the distribution of refreshments to those waiting for treatment. The outreach also featured a generous multi-million naira donation of medical supplies by Chief Dr. Egbona, reinforcing the leaders’ shared vision for a people-centered agenda and community welfare.

Sunday, November 17, 2024, – Hon. Egbala Bassey Receives “Egbala is Coming” Campaign Support Group.
Hon. Egbala Bassey warmly received the Egbala is Coming Campaign Support Group, led by Director General, Hon. Emmanuel Ezoke. The Director General reaffirmed the group’s unalloyed commitment to backing the Chairman’s policies and initiatives, emphasizing their continued support for his leadership.

Monday, November 18, 2024, – Inaugural Meeting of the Forum of Local Government Chairmen of Cross River State. Hon. Egbala Bassey attended the inaugural meeting of the Forum of Local Government Chairmen at the Government House, Calabar. The meeting, presided over by the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, saw the election of Hon. Yibala Igri as Chairman, Apostle James Anam as Vice Chairman, with Hon. Egbala Bassey assuming the role of Publicity Secretary, among other key appointments.

Wednesday, November 20, 2024, –Appointment of Five Key Administrative Staff
Hon. Egbala made significant appointments to strengthen his administration, naming Dr. Jeremiah Ani as Secretary of Council, Enya Elloi Ideba as Chief Press Secretary, Egbina Augustine Urom as Chief Protocol Officer, Echi Achi Evemili as Personal Assistant on Administration, and Bassey Bassey Egbe as Personal Assistant on Logistics.

On the same day, ABI Vice Chairman Hon. Joseph Ukata resumed office at the Council Secretariat and hosted a group of persons living with disabilities.

Thursday, November 21, 2024, – Hon. Egbala Leads Delegation to the CRS Trade Fair 2024.
Hon. Egbala Bassey led a delegation of ABI sons and daughters to the 2024 Cross River State Trade Fair. The event, held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, showcased a wide array of food products and other local industries. The fair was organized by the Cross River State Ministry of Commerce in collaboration with the Calabar and Ikom Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture.

Sunday, November 24, 2024, – Hon. Egbala Welcomes PDP Defectors to APC.
Hon. Egbala Bassey took time from his busy schedule to warmly receive several defectors from the People’s Democratic Party into the APC fold at the Imabana I APC Chapter. The new members expressed their deep gratitude for the Chairman’s exceptional leadership and pledged their unflinching support for the continued progress and prosperity of the ABI administration.

Same day, Hon. Joseph Ukata’s Thanksgiving Service. ABI Vice Chairman Hon. Joseph Ukata hosted a heartfelt Thanksgiving Service at St. Brenda’s Catholic Church in Afafanyi, ABI LGA. The event drew political leaders, party members, community residents, and well-wishers who gathered in solidarity to celebrate and honor the Vice Chairman.

Monday, November 25, 2024, – Local Government Chairmen Strategic Meeting (LGCSM).
Hon. Egbala Bassey attended the LGCSM, convened and presided over by Mr. Darlington Bassey Eyo, Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission. During the meeting, Mr. Eyo reaffirmed the Commission’s unflinching commitment to enhancing the efficiency of local government administration, with a focus on driving meaningful development at the grassroots level.

Call for Crossriverians to Support Governor Otu: On the same day, Hon. Egbala Bassey extended heartfelt congratulations to Governor Otu following his appointment as Chairman of the National Electrification Strategy. Hon. Egbala used the opportunity to call on Cross Riverians to rally behind the Governor in his new role and pledged to collaborate closely with the state government to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of ABI.

Tuesday, November 26, 2024, –Condolence Visit to Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.
Hon. Egbala Bassey, alongside Governor Otu’s entourage, paid a condolence visit to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State to commiserate with him over the loss of his beloved wife, Pastor Patience (Oluwakemi) Umo Eno. The late Pastor Patience Eno was an epitome of Christian virtues and impeccable character.

Thursday, November 28, 2024, – Approval of Supervisory Councilor Nominees.
Through his Chief Press Secretary, Enya Elloi Ideba, Hon. Egbala Bassey announced the nomination of seven individuals as Supervisory Councilors Designate. The nominees, who include Hon. Wilfred Nkanu Inah, Hon. Enang Aboli Azogor, Ivara Moses Ejah, Blessing Enya Edwin, Stanley Emmanuel Ekpe, Joy Soniwa Ekom, and Bassey Evans Igiri, were enjoined to appear before the ABI Legislative Council for screening at a later date.

Friday, November 29, 2024, – Hon. Egbala Meets with Afafanyi Community Delegation.
Hon. Egbala Bassey granted an audience to a delegation from the Afafanyi community. The meeting focused on strengthening ties between the community and the ABI Local Government Council, fostering greater collaboration and unity.

Courtesy Visit by the Director of Healthcare, ABI LGC
Later the same day, Hon. Egbala received a courtesy visit from Mrs. Christina Iwara, the Director of Healthcare for ABI LGC, and her team. During the visit, Mrs. Iwara pledged her full support to the Chairman’s vision for the healthcare sector and briefed him on preparations for World AIDS Day, scheduled for December 1, 2024.

Appointments of Legal Adviser and SA Peace and Security.
In a further announcement, Hon. Egbala appointed Barr. Victor Bassey Eni as Legal Adviser and Hon. Friday Ernest Okpa as Special Adviser on Peace and Security. Both appointees were requested to appear before the ABI Legislative Council for screening at an upcoming session.

Saturday November 30, 2024, – ABI Chairman Sports Engagement. Hon. Egbala Bassey joined ABI WAVES Football Club (FC) at Ikom Township Stadium to boost the morale of the players and the entire technical crew of the club ahead of the 2024 Governor’s cup termed “Building Grassroot Talents for Youth Empowerment”.

In lieu of the events-packed of the month of November 2024 of ABI Chairman, we conclude thus; that Hon. Chief Egbala Bassey’s leadership has fostered partnership at both the local and state levels, building crucial synergies and promoting an inclusive, people-centered approach to governance akin to the Governor Otu’s people centric mantra.

His administration’s early strides highlight a fresh, forward-thinking approach that promises to catalyze lasting change, bridging gaps and bringing meaningful progress to every corner of ABI Local Government Area.

As he continues to build on these foundations, the people of ABI can look forward to a future where their needs are met with responsiveness, transparency, and dedication. The journey is just beginning, and with this solid start, ABI is poised for a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow under Hon. Egbala Bassey led-Abi Administration.

See Photos Of The Event Below;

Video Of The Event Below;

Imoke Etorti
Data, Political and Economic Analyst.

A New Era for the CRS Forum of L.G. Chairmen: Hon. Yibala Inyang, Hon. Egbala Bassey, and Others Emerge in the New Leadership.

On Monday, November 18, 2024, a historic and transformative event unfolded at the Glass House within the Government House in Calabar—the inaugural meeting of the Forum of Local Government Chairmen of Cross River State. Presided over by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, this gathering marked a pivotal moment in the political evolution of our state, symbolizing a new era of collaboration, progress, and leadership.

In a moment that encapsulated both promise and progress, Hon. Yibala Inyang, Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area, was appointed as the new Chairman of the Forum. Alongside him, the visionary Hon. Chief Egbala Bassey, Executive Chairman of Abi Local Government Area, was entrusted with the role of Publicity Secretary.

The Forum’s leadership team was further strengthened with the nomination of Hon. (Apostle) James Anam, Chairman of Calabar Municipality, as Vice Chairman. Other distinguished members of the executive included Hon. Prince Effiom Bassey of Akpabuyo as Secretary, Hon. Peter Undiandeye of Obudu as Treasurer, Hon. Chris Agbeh of Ogoja as Financial Secretary, and Hon. Beatrice Nyiam of Boki as Assistant Secretary.

In his acceptance speech, Chairman Hon. Yibala Inyang humbly acknowledged his new role, emphasizing that he was merely “the first among equals.” He reassured the Forum that under his leadership, they would work collaboratively to support the current administration and further the development of the state.

Apostle James Anam, who was appointed Vice Chairman, expressed his deep gratitude with characteristic humility. He thanked the people of Calabar Municipality for their unwavering trust and support, which he noted had inspired his passion for service and his commitment to excellence. He pledged to work diligently with the Chairman and other executive members to foster cooperation, drive innovation, and tackle the unique challenges facing the local governments of Cross River. Together, they aim to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life for all Cross Riverians.

The meeting, attended by newly elected Chairmen and distinguished guests, was a testament to the state’s ongoing political evolution. The new leadership of the Forum reflects their dedication, integrity, and forward-thinking vision for Cross River’s prosperity.

As these new leaders embark on this crucial journey, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to them. May they be endowed with the wisdom, courage, and foresight to navigate the complexities of their roles and lead with distinction.

Together, they will no doubt elevate the Forum to greater heights and play a vital role in shaping the future of Cross River State.

Imoke Etorti, reporting from Calabar Metropolis.

Serve Your Nation: Nigerian Navy Batch 37 Recruitment Underway.

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Key Requirements and Guidelines

– Age Limit: You must be between 18-22 years old (for School Certificate holders) or 18-26 years old (for those with higher qualifications).
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– Education: You need a minimum of 5 credits in not more than 2 sittings in WASSCE/SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB, including English and Mathematics.
– Height: You must be at least 1.69m tall (for males) or 1.65m tall (for females).
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 Important Dates

– Registration Deadline: December 20, 2024.
– Aptitude Test: January 18, 2025.

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