A Season of Renewal in Bekwarra: How Hon Egbung Odama is Redefining Grassroots Leadership
When Hon Egbung Odama Egbung took the oath of office on June 16, 2025, as Acting Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government, many residents hoped for a breath of fresh air in leadership. Five months later, the mood across communities in Bekwarra confirms that their expectations were not misplaced. What has unfolded is a story of inclusive governance, bold reforms, and deliberate efforts to rebuild trust between government and the people.
Today, Bekwarra stands as a case study in people centered leadership, one that places citizens at the heart of decision making. Hon Egbung has worked to restore confidence in public institutions, strengthen executive and legislative harmony, and promote a culture of transparency that is fast becoming a new norm.
Leadership that Listens
From his first day in office, Hon Egbung left no doubt about his leadership philosophy. He pledged to uphold the People First vision championed by Governor Bassey Otu, emphasising that public service must reflect the needs and aspirations of the people.
True to his word, he embarked on widespread consultations across communities. Youth leaders, women groups, traditional rulers, professional bodies, and stakeholders were invited into decision making processes. The conversation shifted from what leaders wanted to what the people needed.
The result is a style of governance rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. Meetings are now open, information flows more freely, and both arms of government work with minimal rancour. This renewed synergy has helped stabilise the political environment and foster a climate where development ideas can thrive.
Changing the Face of Infrastructure
Infrastructure renewal has become one of the hallmarks of this administration. With a keen sense of priority, Hon Egbung directed attention to public facilities that were in disrepair and hindering effective service delivery.
The neglected Education Authority Complex, once unsafe for staff and visitors, has been restored. With functional offices, secure records, and a more friendly work environment, it now stands as a symbol of administrative revival in the education sector.
The Legislative Block also received a complete transformation. Before now, lawmakers conducted their duties outside their offices due to the deplorable state of the building. Today, the remodeled structure, complete with new roofing and utilities, provides a conducive atmosphere for legislative business.
One of the most visible interventions is at Ugidi Market in Abuochiche, where congestion once made market days a nightmare. By engaging traders and transport unions, Hon Egbung initiated the reconstruction of collapsed shops to relocate traders who had taken over the motor park. With reconstructed stalls now in use, movement around the market has significantly improved.
Another critical intervention is planned for the failed portion of the Abuochiche New Junction. Surveys and assessments have been completed ahead of reconstruction, which will begin as soon as the rains subside. This will include drainage, structural reinforcement, and beautification to enhance the entrance into the local government headquarters.
Beyond council interventions, the State Government has also responded to Hon Egbung’s advocacy. The State Executive Council has approved the construction of the Ukpah to Afrike Road and the Abuochiche to Bewo to Akwurunyi Road has been captured under the Rural Access and Mobility Programme. These will open up rural communities and improve economic flow.
Building Human Capital for the Future
The Acting Chairman is equally investing in people. Recognising that infrastructure alone cannot transform a society, he has created opportunities for young people to acquire skills and become economically independent.
Through partnerships, more than ten youths have benefited from Industrial Training Fund programmes, while five others received sponsorship for commercial agriculture training in Nasarawa State. These programmes are aimed at preparing young people for self employment and entrepreneurship.
A significant step towards youth engagement is the revival of the Bekwarra Golden Brick Factory. Several brick making machines have been repaired, setting the stage for the factory to resume operations. Once fully active, it will offer jobs, support construction across the region, and provide affordable building materials.
Culture as a Tool for Unity and Tourism
The cultural soul of Bekwarra is finding fresh expression. The 2025 edition of the Ipem Ihihe International Cultural Festival received strong government support and has been described as the most successful yet. For the first time, top government officials including the Deputy Governor and the Chief of Staff attended the event.
The festival provided a colourful showcase of Bekwarra heritage and created new opportunities for cultural tourism. The renewed promotion of cultural values is already fostering community pride and boosting the image of Bekwarra as a hub for cultural tourism in Cross River State.
A New Era of Peace and Security
Perhaps the most profound shift has been in security. Bekwarra has experienced relative peace over the past five months. Protests triggered by herder related farm destruction have subsided, thanks to conflict mediation involving community heads and security agencies.
One issue that residents remember with relief is the removal of illegal revenue checkpoints that caused traffic chaos and extorted motorists. Within weeks of assuming office, Hon Egbung dismantled the extortion rings and restored sanity to the roads. Highways are now clear, safer, and more secure.
His landmark achievement in security is the successful peace dialogue between Obudu and Vandeikya communities which ended a land conflict that spanned more than six decades. Lives were lost over the years and property worth millions destroyed, but through tactful negotiations, peace returned.
Reviving a Once Popular Transport Legacy
Transportation is receiving attention through the revival of the Bekwarra Council Concord, a once vibrant transport service initiated during the administration of the late Hon Arc Tony Akobi. After more than twenty years of inactivity, the service is being resurrected.
New buses are set to be deployed on major local routes, with plans to expand into inter state transportation. This initiative will create jobs, reduce travel costs, and strengthen commercial activity across Bekwarra.
A Leadership that Lets Results Speak
Hon Egbung Odama has maintained a modest posture despite the strides he has recorded. He insists that the first five months represent only a fraction of his vision to reposition Bekwarra on a path of sustained development.
His leadership blends intellect, humility, consultation, and firm decision making. What stands out is a refusal to self promote. He prefers evidence to speak on his behalf. For him, this is not a celebration of achievements but an account of stewardship rooted in accountability and transparency.
He expresses appreciation to all sons and daughters of Bekwarra, both at home and abroad, for their cooperation and support. His message is clear: the journey has only just begun and the future promises even greater transformation.
