ONE YEAR OF PEOPLE-CENTERED LEADERSHIP IN YAKURR
(A Journey of Impact)
On November 4, 2024, the people of Yakurr entrusted me with the sacred responsibility of leading our local government. I made a simple promise to serve with sincerity, to lead with empathy, and to bring government closer to the people.
One year later, I stand humbled by how far we have come together. Through the grace of God and the collective will of our people, that promise has begun to take shape across every sector of our local government.
Our focus has remained clear: to touch lives directly, solve real problems, and restore trust in leadership. Today, I am proud to share with you the story of our journey so far.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
From the very first day, I made a firm commitment that every council ward in Yakurr would feel the presence of this administration before I take a bow out of office. That commitment is already becoming a reality.
In less than a year, we have renovated the Council Secretariat, which was in a dilapidated state when I assumed office, and installed a solar-powered pipe-borne water system to make the environment more functional and sustainable.
We also made an emergency intervention at the Yakurr Peace Stadium, Ugep, where we constructed a new pavilion to support sporting and communal activities.
Other infrastructural achievements include:
• Construction of culverts with drainage in Ikpakapit Council Ward, Ugep
• Construction of double culvert in Ijom Council Ward, Ugep.
• Culvert construction in Ajere Coucil Ward, Ekori
• Construction of two culverts in Ntan Council Ward, Ekori
• Drainage project in Nko Market, Nkpolo Ukpawen Council Ward
• Culvert construction in Yekalikpang, Idomi Council Ward
• Renovation of the Chairman’s Official Quarters in Ugep
• Construction of a Modern Market in Afrekpe-Epenti Council Ward, Ekori
PROJECTS APPROVED AND SET TO COMMENCE SOON INCLUDE :
• Construction of a modern pavilion in Mkpani Playground
• Rehabilitation of Agoi Mbami Market
• Construction of culvert in Biko-Biko, Ugep
• Construction of culvert in Usaja, Assiga New Town
• Construction of culvert in Agoi Ekpo
• Construction of culvert in Iyima
• Construction of culvert in Abanamkpai Ward, Nko
Each of these projects reflects my administration’s responsiveness to the pressing needs of our people.
HEALTH SECTOR
Because health remains a core priority of my administration, we are partnering with the people of Ijiman to build a Model Primary Health Care Centre, and we are working closely with the Cross River State Government to ensure that indigent residents of Yakurr are enrolled in the State Health Insurance Scheme.
This partnership is designed to ensure that even the most vulnerable among us can access affordable and quality healthcare.
YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT
Our young people are the driving force of Yakurr’s future, and their empowerment remains a top priority of my administration.
Dozens of young constituents have benefited from various empowerment programs, including the distribution of hair clippers, solar installation kits, sewing machines, and ICT tools, to help them start or expand their small businesses and become self-reliant.
In the area of sports, we have revived the Yakurr United Football Team, a symbol of unity and pride for our local government. To motivate our young talents, my administration provided new jerseys, boots, and other football kits, alongside a modest monthly stipend to support and encourage their passion for the game.
AGRICULTURE SECTOR
Through the office of my wife, the Wife of the Chairman, we have supported our local farmers with farm chemicals and manual back-knapsack fumigation sprayers.
This initiative has helped to boost crop yield, promote modern agricultural practices, and strengthen food production and income among smallholder farmers.
EDUCATION SECTOR
To support academic excellence and reduce the financial burden on parents, we have approved bursaries for 5 students from each of the 13 council wards in Yakurr, bringing the total to 65 beneficiaries currently studying in various universities across the country.
Payments for the approved bursaries have been scheduled to commence in January, as part of our renewed commitment to ensuring that every ward benefits equitably.
ECONOMIC SUPPORT
In recognition of the economic challenges faced by many households, my administration has provided financial assistance totaling ₦10 million to constituents to help meet urgent personal and family needs. This is a reflection of my belief that governance must have a human face.
PEACE AND SECURITY
Maintaining peace and unity in Yakurr has been a collective responsibility that my administration takes very seriously.
Through constant collaboration with traditional institutions, youth leaders, and security agencies, we have sustained harmony and understanding across our communities.
We have continued to promote dialogue, inclusiveness, and swift intervention in times of crisis. Today, I am proud to say that Yakurr remains one of the most peaceful and united local government areas in Cross River State.
Hon. Yibala Igri Inyang
Executive Chairman, Yakurr Local Government Council and ALGON Chairman, Cross River State
