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Hon. Egbala Bassey Resumes Office, Embarks on Needs Assessment Tour Across ABI LGA [Photos/Video]

Published

2 weeks ago

November 8, 2024

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Hon. Egbala Bassey Resumes Office, Embarks on Needs Assessment Tour Across ABI LGA [Photos/Video]

New Beginnings: Hon. Egbala Bassey Embarks on Fact-Finding Mission Across ABI.

On November 6, 2024, Hon. Egbala Bassey, the newly elected and energetic Chairman of ABI Local Government Area, officially resumed office at the ABI Local Government Council Headquarters in Itigidi. His arrival marked the beginning of a fresh chapter in leadership, as he embarked on a comprehensive tour to assess the state of the council and its facilities.

A distinguished delegation warmly welcomed Hon. Egbala and his team, including former council chairmen, past leaders, members of the ABI legislature, as well as successful entrepreneurs, business consultants, and all council staff. The delegation was led by the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA) and various department directors, who were all present to show their support.

During his visit, Hon. Egbala was thoroughly briefed on the council’s current infrastructure. He toured key areas such as the Administrative Block, Political Block, Legislative Building, and several departmental and business facilities, reflecting his commitment to understanding the operational landscape of the council.

The Chairman also inspected the condition of key facilities, including the ABI Local Government Council Guest House and the Itigidi Police Station, in an effort to gauge the level of infrastructural decay and prioritize urgent interventions.

In his address, Hon. Egbala expressed his determination to build on the achievements of his predecessor, focusing on sustainable progress and the prosperity of ABI Local Government Area. He stressed the importance of staff welfare, announcing motivational packages aimed at boosting morale and enhancing productivity among council employees. This initiative was part of his broader vision to create a collaborative, forward-looking environment, ensuring the council’s success now and in the future.

On November 7, 2024, Hon. Egbala continued his tour, visiting Afafanyi/Igonigoni in the Bahumono area of ABI, where he was warmly received by community leaders. The leaders welcomed his impromptu visit, noting that it demonstrated his commitment to serving the people of ABI, even in the early days of his administration. They encouraged him to focus on achievable projects within his three-year term, acknowledging that while time may be limited, concrete efforts in key areas would inspire confidence among the people.

The community leaders expressed their appreciation for Hon. Egbala’s willingness to visit without prior notice, interpreting it as a clear signal of his readiness to serve. They urged him to adopt the people-centric leadership style of the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Ntufam Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, emphasizing that the work ahead requires selflessness and genuine dedication to the welfare of the people.

Hon. Egbala also carried out an in-depth assessment of the health facilities in Imabana, Ediba, and Igonigoni/Afafanyi, expressed his profound displeasure with both the state of the facilities and the quality of services currently offered. He reassured local leaders that, with God’s guidance, he is committed to driving meaningful and positive reforms for the community.

His assessment of the deplorable state of the “Bahumono Ring Road” traversed challenging terrains, from Ogbodo along the Anong/Ediba axis to Ruhura on the Ediba/Usumutong route, and reached critical locations including Efem Hill, Ebom, Bhasowure, Igonigoni, and the picturesque Afafanyi beach. This comprehensive assessment has provided invaluable insights, paving the way for strategic improvements as the council prepares to implement much-needed developments across these areas.

Hon. Egbala, in response, acknowledged that power is divinely ordained and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve. He pledged that his three years in office would be a stepping stone to greater achievements, not an end in itself. Hon. Egbala reassured the community that he would unveil more developmental plans in the coming weeks, with a specific focus on improving key infrastructure.

He reiterated his earlier assessments of the council’s infrastructure but emphasized that the urgent repair of Bahumono’s roads was now his top priority. He assured the people that the construction or restoration of these roads would bring much-needed relief and opportunities for the community. Citing the relative peace in the Bahumono area as a positive sign, he noted that this was the perfect time to address this crucial issue.

Hon. Egbala also affirmed his commitment to peace, unity, and overall progress in ABI. He made it clear that he was not aligned with any political faction but was entirely focused on the development of ABI. He assured the community leaders that his administration would promote peace in Bahumono, overseeing developmental projects personally to ensure that quality standards were upheld and substandard work avoided.

To this end, Hon. Egbala Bassey’s resumption of office as the Chairman of ABI Local Government Area has been marked by a strong commitment to infrastructure improvement and staff welfare. His recent tour of council facilities and the Bahumono community highlights his proactive approach to leadership, with a focus on tangible progress within his three-year tenure. The Chairman has vowed to prioritize critical road projects, ensure community peace, and build an administration that fosters unity and sustainable development for all of ABI.

Watch Video Below;

Reported by IMOKE ETORTI.

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Change at the Top: CRS Forum of LG Chairmen Welcomes Yibala Inyang, Egbala Bassey as New Leaders [Photos]

Published

4 days ago

November 19, 2024

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Change at the Top: CRS Forum of LG Chairmen Welcomes Yibala Inyang, Egbala Bassey as New Leaders [Photos]

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.

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Nigerian Navy Recruitment: Apply Now for Batch 37 Training

Published

1 week ago

November 15, 2024

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Nigerian Navy Recruitment: Apply Now for Batch 37 Training

Serve Your Nation: Nigerian Navy Batch 37 Recruitment Underway.

Joining the Nigerian Navy just got easier! The recruitment exercise for the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School Batch 37 is now open, and here’s what you need to do.

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).
– Citizenship: You must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
– 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).
– Health: You must be medically, psychologically, and physically fit.

Application Process

1. Registration: Visit (joinnigeriannavy.com) to register online.
2. Free Registration: Remember, registration is COMPLETELY FREE, so don’t pay anyone.
3. Print Documents: After registration, print out the required documents, including the Acknowledgement Form, Parent/Guardian Consent Form, and Local Government Attestation Form.
4. Submission: Submit your application online and wait for further instructions.

Important Dates

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

For more information, visit (joinnigeriannavy.com) or contact the Nigerian Navy support lines: 09139381599 and 07056779668.

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The Life & Legacy of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja

Published

1 week ago

November 14, 2024

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The Life & Legacy of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja

Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja: His Life and Times.

Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja was a renowned Nigerian Army officer who made significant contributions to the country’s military. Born on February 28, 1968, in Irepodun, Osun State, Lagbaja spent his early life in Osogbo, where he attended St. Charles Grammar School and Local Authority Teachers College.

Lagbaja’s military career began in 1987 when he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of the 39th Regular Course. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant on September 19, 1992, into the Nigerian Infantry Corps. Throughout his career, Lagbaja held various command positions, including:

– Platoon Commander: 93 Battalion (1992-1995) and 72 Special Forces Battalion (1995-2001)
– Commanding Officer: 72 Special Forces Battalion Makurdi (2012-2013 and 2014-2015)
– Chief of Staff: Headquarters 8 Task Force Division, Monguno (2016)
– General Officer Commanding: Headquarters 82 Division (March 2021 – August 2022) and Headquarters 1 Division (August 2022 – June 2023).

Lagbaja also participated in several military operations, including Operation Harmony IV in Bakassi Peninsula, the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Operation Lafiya Dole.

In June 2023, Lagbaja was appointed as the Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu, replacing Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya. Unfortunately, his tenure was cut short when he passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 56.

Lagbaja was a highly decorated officer, holding several honors and awards, including the Nigerian Army Medal, Grand Service Star, and Passed Staff Course Dagger. He was married to Mariya Abiodun-Lagbaja and had three children.

A Lasting Legacy

Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja’s remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication to Nigeria and its people. His exemplary leadership, strategic vision, and selfless service have left an indelible mark on the Nigerian military.

Tributes and Remembrance

Colleagues, friends, and family remember Lagbaja for his:

– Unwavering commitment to duty
– Inspirational leadership
– Unshakeable optimism
– Humility and compassion

Enduring Impact

Lagbaja’s legacy extends beyond his military achievements:

– Mentorship: Inspiring generations of military officers
– Community development: Enhancing lives through humanitarian initiatives
– National security: Strengthening Nigeria’s defense capabilities