By: Pst Imoke Etorti, PhD
Southern Correspondent, Inside Cross River News Magazine
Background
The Executive Chairman of ABI Local Government Area, Hon. Egbala Bassey is a highly skilled professional administrator, visionary, entrepreneur, and a distinguished political leader with a proven track record in human capital development, hails from Imabana 1, in ABI LGA, Cross River State, Nigeria. Before getting the mandate to become Chairman of ABI LGA, Hon. Bassey dedicated many years of service to the University of Calabar (UNICAL), where he rose through the ranks to become Senior Assistant Registrar. His extensive career also includes notable roles such as Office Assistant to Prof. James Epoke, the former Vice Chancellor of UNICAL, Personal Assistant to Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former Pro Chancellor of UNICAL, and Assistant Protocol Officer to Prof. Zana Akpagu, former Vice Chancellor of UNICAL.
In addition to his academic and administrative achievements, Hon. Bassey has made significant contributions to politics, serving as ABI Coordinator, State Treasurer, and Acting State Public Relation Officer of “Prince is Coming Movement”. His leadership abilities extend beyond governance, as a key player for ABI All Stars Football Club he also served as Special Adviser on Intelligence to former Governor Benedict Ayade. A dynamic and multifaceted leader, Hon. Bassey’s career mirrors his unflinching commitment to excellence, service, and the advancement of his community.
A Glimpse At His 60 Days In Office As Chairman And Beyond
His first 60 days in office as Chairman of ABI Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Egbala Bassey has proven to be a guiding light of transformative leadership, weaving a narrative of action, vision, and commitment to his people. His dynamic approach to governance has been a masterclass in strategic collaboration, prompt responses to community needs, and the nurturing of partnerships that hold the promise of a prosperous future. From receiving his certificate of return to embarking on a comprehensive needs assessment tour, Hon. Bassey’s tenure has been marked by swift and decisive actions aimed at revitalizing ABI Local Government infrastructure, health, and security sectors. His inclusive leadership style, and forward-thinking, has already ignited hope for ABI Local Government which will thrive under the banner of unity, progress, and collective engagement.
In these first two months, Hon. Bassey has not only addressed immediate concerns such as a thorough renovation of the ABI Local Government Council Secretariat, health outreach programs, and security but has also laid a foundation for long-term development through the appointment of key administrative officers, but also held strategic meetings with stakeholders. His approach to governance is rooted in thorough assessments, community engagement, and collaboration with local and national figures which signals a new dawn for ABI. Through his flagship free medical outreach, he is fostering community ties with traditional rulers, he also is boosting the local economy at Cross River State Trade Fairs. Hon. Egbala’s leadership mirrors the promise of a brighter, more united ABI Local Government. Beyond 60 days in office is a proof of his fervent dedication to the well-being of his people, setting the stage for a future defined by sustainable growth and holistic development.
His Key Appointments:
Hon. Egbala made strategic appointments to strengthen his administration and drive progress within the community. On November 20, 2024, he appointed Dr. Jeremiah Ani as the Secretary of Council, Enya Elloi Ideba as Chief Press Secretary, Egbina Augustine Urom as Chief Protocol Officer, Echi Achi Evemili as Personal Assistant Administration, and Bassey Bassey Egbe as Personal Assistant on Logistic. On November 28, 2024, Hon. Egbala nominated and later inaugurated seven nominees on December 6, 2024 as Supervisors including Hon. Wilfred Nkanu Inah (Education), Hon. Enang Aboli Azogor (Due Process), Hon. Ivara Moses Ejah (Works), Ms. Blessing Enya Edwin (Health), Mr. Stanley Emmanuel Ekpe (Environment), Mrs. Joy Soniwa Ekom (Finance), and Mr. Bassey Evans Igiri (Agriculture). These appointments reflect his commitment to ensuring effective governance and a collaborative approach to tackling the Local Government challenges.
Hon. Bassey has continued to solidify his administration by further appointing Barr. Victor Bassey Eni as Legal Adviser and Hon. Friday Ernest Okpa as Special Adviser on Peace and Security. His appointment is made with keen consideration on experience and the need for an inclusive leadership structure, highlighting his determination to bring qualified professionals into his administration, enabling him to address the Local Government’s diverse needs. He also appointed eight Special Advisers (SA) having Mr. Nevolor Eja as SA on Youth development, to mention but a few.
Healthcare:
Hon. Bassey ABI-led Administration is marked by significant strides in improving healthcare access and community well-being. A major highlight was the launch of the transformative ABI/Yakurr Free Medical Outreach Program, which brought essential healthcare services to underserved communities such as Agbara and Ngarabe in Ekureku, ABI and in Imabana 1 & II in ABI. This initiative, spearheaded by Chief Dr Alex Egbona directly benefited hundreds of residents, providing free medical consultations, treatments, and healthcare supplies.
In addition to these medical outreach efforts, Hon. Bassey demonstrated proactive leadership by dispatching a medical team to Ebom to assess and provide immediate intervention for their health concerns. This move has exemplified his swift response to public healthcare needs. His administration also prioritize collaboration with healthcare professionals, as seen in the engagement with the Director of Healthcare for ABI Local Government Council, Mrs Christina Iwara to engage in health campaigns during the World AIDS Day which was celebrated on December 1, 2024. These initiatives reflect Hon. Bassey’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and ensuring the well-being of ABI people through short and long-term strategies.
Peace and Security:
Hon. Egbala Bassey prioritized the security and safety of ABI Local Government, with the appointment of Hon. Okpa Friday as SA Peace and Security and forging significant partnerships with various security agencies. One of the key steps was his strategic collaboration with the 245 Recce Battalion of the Nigerian Army and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Itigidi Police Station, where discussions focused on strengthening security infrastructure and enhancing coordination to protect the community. Furthermore, Hon. Bassey convened security meetings with leaders to ensure effective strategies for maintaining law and order, underlining his commitment to creating a safe environment for residents and businesses alike.
Hon. Bassey recognizes the importance of resolving interstate conflicts and safeguarding ABI borders. He participated in a crucial sensitization meeting with the Interstate Boundary Commission at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar, aimed at addressing boundary disputes between Cross River and Ebonyi states. This engagement was a proactive effort to foster peaceful coexistence and resolve any lingering issues that could affect ABI’s stability. By addressing both internal and external security concerns, Hon. Egbala Bassey has laid a strong foundation for a secure and prosperous ABI, aligning with his broader vision of development and community welfare.
Hon. Egbala Bassey warmly honored Nigeria’s fallen heroes on Armed Forces Remembrance Day at ABI Local Government Secretariat. Through inspection of the parade, laying of the wreath, his steering address, generous support, and commitment to Veterans’ welfare, he vividly showed a strong resolve to strengthen security partnerships. An act that speaks volume and mirrors a leader with immense dedication to peace, unity, honoring the enduring legacies and valor of these veterans.
Economic Enhancement:
Hon. Egbala Bassey has laid a solid foundation for economic enhancement in ABI Local Government Area, through strategic initiatives and key collaborations. His leadership took a focused approach towards revitalizing critical assets, particularly with the assessment of the Songhai Farm, a once thriving agro-industrial venture, with plans to restore it as a key economic driver. Furthermore, his visit to the Ministry of Finance shows his commitment to fostering economic growth, where he sought support for ABI in terms of budgetary allocations and project prioritization. His active participation in the 2024 Local Government Economic Summit (LGES) in Abuja provided a platform for networking and acquiring insights to improve governance and sustainable development in ABI. Additionally, Hon. Bassey initiated a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with First Bank to reactivate the Itigidi branch, ensuring greater access to financial inclusion for local businesses and communities.
Hon. Egbala’s administration has also set the stage for strengthened revenue generation, with plans to constitute a revenue generation committee to streamline and enhance the collection of taxes and levies within the LGA. His emphasis on collaboration with financial institutions, government bodies, and economic stakeholders signals a forward-thinking approach to improving ABI economy, fostering a climate of growth and prosperity for all residents.
Strengthening Community Ties
He has made significant strides in strengthening community ties and fostering unity across ABI Local Government Area. His administration has actively engaged various community groups, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence and collaborative development. Notably, Hon. Bassey met with HRM Ovai Elder Osim Edward JP, Chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, Chief Bolaji Anani, Mboti Community, Lehangal Community, Itakonghor Community and hosted ABI traditional rulers during the “Season of Sweetness” event. These interactions reinforced his commitment to working closely with traditional institutions, ensuring their support for local governance, transparent revenue management, and enhanced security.
Hon. Bassey’s efforts in partnering with community-based organizations, such as the Egbala is Coming Campaign Support Group and local medical outreach programs is the icing on the cake. By collaborating with groups like the Cyclist Union, security agencies, and the medical teams for the ABI/Yakurr Free Medical Outreach, Bassey has ensured the inclusion of grassroots voices in governance, boosting both social and economic empowerment. His leadership style, built on open dialogue and inclusivity, has laid a solid foundation for ABI’s growth, peace, and harmonious development.