ONE HUNDRED DAYS IN OFFICE OF HON. CHRISTOPHER AGBEH AS THE EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN OF OGOJA LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL
INTRODUCTION:
Hon. Christopher Eweh Agbeh was elected as the Council Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council on November 2, 2024, and sworn into office on November 4, 2024, by His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State. Upon assuming office, Hon. Agbeh was determined to alleviate the hardships faced by the people of Ogoja Local Government Area.
Over the past 100 days, he has initiated several impactful projects aimed at improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
GOVERNMENT START-UP:
Legislative Council Inauguration: The Chairman successfully inaugurated the Legislative Council, ensuring a harmonious and inclusive Executive Council that reflects the interests of all stakeholders.
COMMUTERS' CONCERNS:
Bus Shuttle Services: Ten buses were procured to commence shuttle services, resulting in a significant reduction of over 90% in transportation fares, thereby easing the burden on commuters.
CIVIL RECONSTRUCTION:
Bridge Reconstruction: Shortly after taking office, the bridge connecting Ogoja and Obudu Local Government Areas collapsed, disrupting daily activities, especially for farmers and traders. The Chairman secured approval from the Governor to reconstruct the bridge, and work is underway, with completion anticipated soon.
ADMINISTRATIVE IMPROVEMENTS:
Office Renovations: Upon assuming office, the Chairman found the Council's office lacking functional furniture and equipment. Procurement of modern office furniture, computers, and printers is in progress to enhance administrative efficiency. Additionally, a generator set has been installed to restore power, with solar energy serving as an alternative power source. Renovations are also underway for dilapidated structures, including the installation of doors in offices containing sensitive materials, addressing the shortage of office space for staff.
Market Improvements: The Chairman has completed the cleanup of drains around Ishibori Modern Market to facilitate waste and water drainage. Renovation of the Market Master's office is ongoing.
Transport Fare Reduction: Inter and intra-city transport fares have been significantly reduced, and traders have been encouraged to lower prices, with transporters complying with the Council's directives.
REVENUE GENERATION:
Investment Promotion: To boost internally generated revenue, the Chairman established the Ogoja Equity and Investment Company Limited, providing a platform for investors to partner with the Council for the area's economic development.
Revenue Enhancement: The Council has reviewed revenue points for efficiency and productivity. The Chairman has also dismantled illegal sand dredging sites at Ntara Waterside and Mfom 2, ensuring that beneficiaries contribute to the Council's revenue profile.
Trade Fair Participation: Hon. Agbeh was the first Local Government Council Chairman to participate in the First Cross River State Trade Fair, showcasing Ogoja products to attract prospective investors.
COMMITTEE INAUGURATIONS:
Community Engagement: The Chairman established various committees, including the Clean Up Ogoja, Traffic Light Enforcement, and Access Recovery Committees, to revitalize and engage the community. Additionally, Elders Advisory and Critical Stakeholders Committees were inaugurated to educate the public on the Council's policies and programs aimed at prosperity.
HEALTH SECTOR INITIATIVES:
Healthcare Improvements: The Chairman refurbished the Council's ambulance, secured medical professionals for health facilities, and supported the Department of Primary Healthcare in hosting programs such as HIV/AIDS awareness and campaigns against gender and child violence. The IMPACT Project, a state government initiative, has commenced comprehensive renovations of several health facilities in the area.
SECURITY ENHANCEMENTS:
Security Collaboration: The Chairman maintains a strong working relationship with security agencies in the Local Government Area. He successfully resolved a land dispute in Nkum Irede Ward, fostering peaceful coexistence among Muslim groups. The Legislative Arm was encouraged to visit security formations to promote awareness and compliance with security measures.
EDUCATION INITIATIVES
Hon. Christopher Eweh Agbeh, the Executive Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, recognizes education as the cornerstone of community development. In his first 100 days in office, he has undertaken significant steps to enhance the educational infrastructure within the Local Government Area.
INSPECTION OF EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES:
Local Government Education Authority Structures: Demonstrating a commitment to educational advancement, Chairman Agbeh has conducted thorough inspections of the Local Government Education Authority's facilities. This initiative aims to assess the current state of educational infrastructure and identify areas requiring improvement.
PLANS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE ENHANCEMENT:
Renovation and Upgrades: Following the inspections, the Chairman is preparing to implement a comprehensive facelift of the identified structures. This includes renovations and necessary upgrades to create a conducive learning environment for students and educators alike.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
Stakeholder Involvement: The Chairman's approach involves engaging with key stakeholders, including educators, parents, and community leaders, to ensure that the planned improvements align with the needs and expectations of the community.
Through these initiatives, Hon. Agbeh demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing educational challenges and fostering an environment that supports academic excellence in Ogoja Local Government Area.
RELATIONSHIP WITH THE TRADITIONAL RULERS COUNCIL
During his tenure, Hon. Christopher Eweh Agbeh has demonstrated a strong commitment to engaging with the Traditional Rulers Council, recognizing their pivotal role as custodians of the cultural heritage of the people.
ENGAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION:
Cultural Preservation: Hon. Agbeh has actively engaged with traditional rulers to ensure the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of Ogoja Local Government Area.
Advisory Role: He has sought the counsel of traditional leaders on matters affecting the community, valuing their insights and guidance in local governance.
COMMITMENT TO FUNCTIONAL INTEGRATION:
Functional Perspective: The Chairman is dedicated to integrating the Traditional Rulers Council into the governance framework, ensuring that their roles are both recognized and functional within the administrative structure.
Through these efforts, Hon. Agbeh underscores the importance of traditional institutions in modern governance, fostering a collaborative environment that honuors cultural traditions while advancing community development.
STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT RELATIONS:
Active Participation: Ogoja Local Government Council is recognized for its active participation in state activities, including the Senatorial District Carnival and Carnival Calabar. The Chairman collaborates with the State Emergency Management Agency to support refugees, ensuring sustainability after the exit of donor agencies.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
Community Support: The Chairman regularly visits orphanages, correctional centers, hospitals, and individuals with welfare items to alleviate their burdens. He partners with organizations such as the National Youth Service Corps, Road Safety, UNHCR, CARITAS, and Red Cross International to support refugees and promote community well-being.
CONCLUSION:
In his first 100 days in office, Hon. Christopher Agbeh has demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of Ogoja residents through various initiatives in transportation, infrastructure, revenue generation, health, security, and community engagement. His administration has fostered goodwill and collaboration among stakeholders, laying a strong foundation for continued development in Ogoja Local Government Area.
