Ochagbe Community Hosts Grand Reception for Hon. Odere, First Commissioner for Finance from the Area Since 1960

 

Ochagbe community in Bekwarra LGA Calabar branch today, April 5, 2025 held a  historic event   at the Calabar Sports club  to host a warm and grand reception for their own, Michael Ireukanre Odere PhD, on his  appointment as Commissioner for Finance by the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, price Bassey Edet Otu. 

This significant occasion marks Dr. Odere as the first individual from  Ochagbe community to hold such an esteemed position in the state government since 1960.

The chairman of the event, Ntufam Dr Effenji Odey, thanked the Governor for recognizing their own son to serve in that capacity emphasizing that, it is the first of its kind since the creation of Cross River State. In his words " the affairs of men can only be delayed but can't be denied. We are grateful to His Excellency prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State for recognizing the best brain from a community that is almost forgotten politically in Bekwarra LGA". He further appreciated the governor for the gratitude shown to Ochagbe community.

Also speaking, Professor Clement Oshie Nku, thanked the Governor for making Ochagbe and Afrike in general proud through Hon. Michael Odere.  He also appreciated the Hon commissioner for his hard work and dedication making reference to Proverbs 22:29 and Jeremiah 29:11 stating that hard work pays .

Speaking at the event, Chief Goddy Iyala , DG, Cross River State Health Insurance Agency, commended the Governor for making Hon Michael Odere PhD Part of his cabinet. He emphasized that, Hon Michael Odere is a well nutured and prepared personality and further urged Ochagbe community to give him a maximum support to succeed in his political career.

Dr Michael Odere expressed gratitude  to the Governor for the trust and pledged to continue to work hard to ensure the Governor delivers the dividends of democracy to crossiverians.

In his address, Dr. Odere expressed his deep gratitude to the community for their unwavering support throughout his career. He emphasized his commitment to using his position to bring development and prosperity to both Ochagbe and Cross River State as a whole and he encouraged his community members to always work as a family to achieve a collective goal.

Excerpt of his speech,

“This is not just my achievement but a collective one for the entire Ochagbe community. I promise to serve with integrity, transparency, and dedication, ensuring that the financial policies of the state positively impact all,” Dr. Odere said.  His words met with applause from the crowd.

Also speaking, Timothy Ogbang Akwaji PhD, the former Head of Service CRS who was the chairman of the planning committee applauded the committee members for organizing the most successful event in the history of the community and thanked everyone for total compliance for the success of the event.

The climax of the event was the presentation of award of Honour by Ochagbe community done by Lady Paulina Effenji Odey.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride as community leaders, family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to honor Dr. Odere’s remarkable achievement. The reception served as a testament to the support and unity of the Ochagbe people, who have long awaited such representation in the state’s leadership.

The reception included speeches from prominent figures within and outside the community, all of whom spoke highly of Dr. Odere’s dedication, intelligence, and humility. The event was a reflection of the growing influence of the Ochagbe community in the political sphere, as well as a moment of pride for the people of Calabar.

Guests were treated to a delightful array of local dishes and entertainment, showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Ochagbe. The reception was not only a celebration of Dr. Odere’s achievement but also a symbol of the promising future for the community in state governance.

As the first Commissioner for Finance from the Ochagbe community, Dr. Odere’s appointment marks a new chapter in the political landscape of Cross River State, one that many believe will pave the way for more representation and opportunities for communities across the state.

Present at the event were, Engr Timothy Ntamu,  Dr Clement Oshaka, Air commondor Olutayo, comrade Olayi Emmanuel, chairman, youth council of Nigeria, CRS chapter, SUG president UNICAL, comrade Blessing Alims,  and others.

Godwin Odey Oshie PhD.