Cross River Education Commissioner Honoured with Award of Excellence at Grand Reception in Port Harcourt

A remarkable gathering of Cross River North indigenes living in the South-South region took place in Port Harcourt over the weekend as the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, received an Award of Excellence in recognition of his leadership and commitment to educational development.

The colourful reception, held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, drew community leaders, traditional rulers, political figures and professionals who converged to celebrate what many described as a rare example of purposeful leadership in public service.

Akahi News learnt that the event was organised by sons and daughters of Yache, Gabu, Ukelle, Bekwarra and other sister communities from Cross River North residing in Rivers State, Akwa Ibom State and Bayelsa State. The gathering became more than a social celebration—it was a symbolic moment of unity among diaspora communities determined to honour one of their own.

Diaspora Communities Celebrate Leadership and Service

The reception hall in Port Harcourt was filled with excitement as members of the Cross River North diaspora reflected on the journey of Senator Odey, whose career has traversed academia, law and politics.

Community representatives described the celebration as a recognition of leadership that has remained connected to the grassroots despite the demands of public office.

Akahi News gathered that for many attendees, the event was not merely about an award but about celebrating a philosophy of leadership rooted in service to people.

Several dignitaries graced the occasion, including the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Chief Boniface Okache, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, Bishop Raphael Aju of the Lutheran Church, and a number of respected traditional rulers.

Among the royal fathers present were His Royal Highness Chief Demian Ododo, Chairman of the Yache Traditional Rulers Council; HRH Chief Isaac Omaji, Clan Head of Maa; and HRH Chief Innocent Okaiba, Clan Head of Aji/Endichui.

Other notable personalities included Elder Okpoli, Hon. John Monday Odo, Director of the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency, former Yala Local Government Secretary Hon. Idiku David, Leader of the Yala Legislative Assembly Hon. Princess Mary Eje, Hon. Christopher Mohie, Hon. Prince George Ogonyi, and Comrade Daniel Ochayi, alongside numerous associates and well-wishers.

“The Golden Fish of Yala”

Speaking at the reception, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Boniface Okache, described Senator Odey as the “golden fish of Yala,” a metaphor often used in Nigerian communities to describe a person whose value is widely recognised.

According to him, the Commissioner’s leadership style stands out because of its humility and connection to the people.

He told the gathering that the honouree has remained deeply committed to the welfare and progress of his people, adding that his example should inspire younger generations seeking to enter public service.

Akahi News observed that many speakers echoed similar sentiments, emphasising that leadership must go beyond occupying office to delivering meaningful impact in people’s lives.

Progress in the Education Sector

Also addressing the gathering, the Cross River State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, praised Senator Odey for what he described as visible achievements within a relatively short period as Commissioner for Education.

He noted that the Commissioner has demonstrated unusual commitment to expanding educational opportunities for young people in the state.

According to him, one of the most significant milestones associated with Odey’s tenure is his role in supporting the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Cross River State.

For many observers, such initiatives represent an attempt to reposition the state’s education sector toward innovation, entrepreneurship and practical skills development.

Yet the development raises deeper questions about the future of education itself.

What truly defines educational progress in today’s society? Is it the construction of new institutions, the reform of curricula, or the cultivation of minds capable of critical thought and ethical leadership?

And perhaps more importantly, can education truly transform a society without leaders who genuinely believe in its power?

Odey Calls for Unity and Civic Participation

Responding to the honour, Senator Professor Stephen Odey expressed gratitude to members of the Cross River North diaspora for what he described as an overwhelming show of love and solidarity.

He acknowledged the organisers of the event and commended the Central Planning Committee led by Engineer Abini F. Decency for their dedication in bringing the reception to reality.

The Commissioner also used the opportunity to call on indigenes of Cross River North living outside the state to remain connected to their roots and support the administration of Governor Senator Dr. Bassey Edet Otu.

According to him, the state government remains committed to transforming various sectors, including education, infrastructure and economic development.

He further encouraged residents of Cross River North living in Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa States to transfer their voter cards to their communities back home so they can actively participate in democratic processes.

Akahi News gathered that the appeal resonated strongly with many members of the diaspora who see civic engagement as a pathway to strengthening local development.

Award of Excellence and Celebration

A major highlight of the reception was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Senator Professor Stephen Odey and his wife, Mrs. Monica Odey.

The award recognised their contributions to community development and their sustained support for initiatives that promote social progress.

The ceremony also featured the cutting of a celebratory cake, symbolising both appreciation and the collective hope that the Commissioner’s leadership would continue to inspire development within Cross River State and beyond.

Representatives from several communities spoke on behalf of Cross River North, including Engr. Linus Omama of Maa Clan, Mr. Matthew Okpe and Barrister Ojeka from Gabu, Mr. Boniface Omang of Bekwarra, Mr. Maurice Agaji of YCDA Uyo, Mr. Monday Okama of YCDA Port Harcourt, and Mr. Ajoma from Yala.

Each speaker praised the Commissioner for what they described as tireless efforts toward grassroots development.

Beyond the Award: What Defines True Leadership?

While awards and ceremonies celebrate achievements, they also invite deeper reflection.

What truly defines a successful public servant? Is it the titles and accolades received, or the quiet transformation experienced by communities and young people whose lives are changed through policy and opportunity?

Perhaps history ultimately answers such questions—not through applause at receptions, but through the enduring impact of leadership decisions.

For many attendees in Port Harcourt, however, one thing seemed clear: the reception was not merely a celebration of a political figure but a collective affirmation of hope that leadership, when driven by vision and integrity, can still inspire progress.

And as the Cross River North diaspora returned to their various cities after the event, the question lingered gently in the minds of many: if more leaders embraced service above self, how different might the story of development across Nigeria become?

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.

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