Hon. Chief (Dr) Martin Orim has established a remarkable legacy in leadership, philanthropy, and community development in Cross River State. As the visionary founder of the GFO Orim Foundation and the former Chief of Staff to the immediate past Governor of Cross River State, his dedication to public service has significantly transformed countless lives.
Through strategic initiatives focused on infrastructure development, human empowerment, education, social welfare, and economic sustainability, Chief Orim has left an indelible mark on Cross River State. His efforts have consistently prioritised the welfare of the less privileged, the economic upliftment of local communities, and the expansion of opportunities for youth and entrepreneurs.
TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH SKILL DEVELOPMENT
One of the defining aspects of Chief Orim’s impact has been his commitment to empowering individuals with lifelong skills. Through various training and skill acquisition programs, he has enabled many to gain hands-on experience in diverse fields, equipping them with the tools necessary to build sustainable livelihoods.
These initiatives have particularly benefited artisans, youths, and women in the Cross River North Senatorial District, with participants not only receiving training but also startup kits and financial support to establish their businesses. This initiative has significantly contributed to economic self-reliance, reducing unemployment rates and fostering self-sufficiency within communities.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT: CONNECTING COMMUNITIES FOR GROWTH
Recognising that infrastructure is a cornerstone of economic development, Chief Orim, facilitated several key projects that have transformed connectivity and accessibility in Cross River State. Some of these remarkable contributions include:
1. Construction of a mini-bridge linking Okweriseng and Okiro in Obudu, providing a safe and reliable passage for residents and improving trade and transportation.
2. Development of key communal roads that link neighborhoods in Okweriseng, enhancing mobility, trade, and ease of access to essential services.
3. Electrification projects in Ukperiki and Ubang, restoring electricity and improving the quality of life for residents, businesses, and public institutions.
5. Facilitating the installation of a telecommunications mast, greatly improving mobile network access and digital connectivity in local communities.
These infrastructural projects have not only improved daily life but have also created new economic opportunities, making it easier for residents to conduct business and engage in socio-economic activities.
EDUCATION: INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
Understanding the critical role of education in national development, Chief Orim championed educational advancement through several key interventions, including:
1. Constructing roadways leading to Akpabuo Memorial Secondary School, ensuring students and teachers have safe and reliable access to their institutions.
2. Equipping schools in Okweriseng-Ubang, Obudu, with computers and science laboratory equipment, modernizing learning environments and fostering technological literacy.
3. Securing funding for a three-classroom block in Udigie, Obudu, from BORDERCOM Abuja, expanding educational infrastructure for growing student populations.
4. Awarding scholarships to students across all educational levels, enabling academically gifted but financially challenged students to pursue their dreams.
5. Distributing thousands of exercise books to public primary and secondary school students in Obudu Local Government Area, ensuring that basic learning materials are available to every child.
Through these efforts, Chief Orim made quality education more accessible and inclusive, paving the way for a better-educated, innovative, and prosperous generation.
EMPOWERING SMALL BUSINESSES AND PROMOTING ECONOMIC GROWTH
Chief Orim’s commitment to economic empowerment and financial inclusion has seen him implement numerous initiatives that support small-scale entrepreneurs, traders, and business owners. His economic interventions include:
1. Providing financial grants and business capital to individuals interested in starting small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).
2. Donating ₦3 million to the Obudu Market Women Union, enabling local traders to expand their businesses and increase economic activity.
3. Supporting the Obudu Commercial Cyclist Union with 100 bags of cement and financial contributions for the construction of their administrative secretariat.
4. Gifting over 80 vehicles and 200 motorcycles to individuals, improving transportation access for business, education, and healthcare needs.
These initiatives have boosted local economies, reduced financial hardship, and created employment opportunities for numerous families across Cross River State.
SOCIAL WELFARE: A CHAMPION FOR THE VULNERABLE
Chief Orim has also dedicated substantial resources to supporting the less privileged and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive essential aid. His philanthropic efforts include:
1. Providing financial assistance to orphanages in Calabar and Ogoja, ensuring that children in these homes receive proper care, nutrition, and education.
2. Delivering food, medical support, and financial aid to widows, empowering them to rebuild their lives and care for their families.
4. Donating wheelchairs to physically challenged individuals, enabling greater mobility and independence.
5. Covering hospital bills and school fees for struggling families, alleviating financial burdens and ensuring access to quality healthcare and education.
His unwavering dedication to social welfare has uplifted countless individuals, giving them a renewed sense of hope and belonging.
RELIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
As a strong advocate for faith-based and community-driven development, Chief Orim has made significant contributions to religious institutions and public facilities, including:
1. Donating a 25KVA diesel-powered Mikano generator to St. Charles Catholic Church in Obudu, ensuring uninterrupted power supply for church activities.
2. Constructing and renovating churches and civic centers, providing functional spaces for religious worship and community gatherings.
3. Facilitating employment opportunities for Cross Riverians in various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Military, Civil Defence, DSS, and NDLEA, thereby strengthening local security.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY AND PUBLIC SAFETY
Chief Orim has prioritized sustainable and renewable energy solutions to improve security and community safety. His contributions include:
• Installing solar-powered streetlights in Alege/Ubang and Ukpe Wards, enhancing nighttime visibility and security.
This initiative has curbed criminal activities and improved public safety, allowing businesses and residents to operate more efficiently at night.
PROMOTING UNITY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
A firm believer in cultural unity and integration, Chief Orim actively supports initiatives that bring people together, including:
• Annual celebrations with the Hausa community in Obudu, fostering peace, unity, and social cohesion.
• Engaging with various political and cultural groups, promoting inclusivity and strengthening communal ties.
A LASTING LEGACY OF SERVICE
Even in his current role as a Member of the Governing Council of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi, Kano State, Chief Hon. Dr. Martin Orim remains committed to humanitarian efforts and grassroots development. His dedication to education, youth empowerment, economic growth, and social welfare continues to shape a brighter future for Cross River State and beyond. No wonder he has received numerous awards both locally and nationally in recognition of his goodwill towards his people.
His legacy is a testament to the power of service, leadership, and selfless giving. As he continues his journey, Chief Orim’s impact will undoubtedly inspire generations and foster sustainable development for years to come.
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