The Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, has been honoured with the traditional title of Otu Kinwang I of Boki Nation. The conferment, performed by the Paramount Ruler of Boki, HRM Otu Fridalin Akando, took place during a civic reception hosted by the people of Beebo and Bumaji communities in collaboration with the Philip Obi Foundation as part of this year’s Boki New Yam Festival.
The occasion also celebrated Ambassador Soni Obache Abang, Executive Director of Finance at the South South Development Commission, who was presented with a Humanitarian Award in recognition of his commitment to service and philanthropy.
In his remarks, Dr. Ironbar expressed deep appreciation to the Boki people for the honour and described the moment as personally significant. He noted that, in line with tradition, he is recognised as a bona fide son of Boki by virtue of marriage, as his wife, Elder Dr. (Mrs.) Virginia Ironbar, hails from the area. He pledged to continue working closely with the people and reaffirmed Governor Bassey Otu’s determination to improve infrastructure and human capital development across the state, assuring that Boki remains fully integrated into the administration’s development agenda.
The Chief of Staff also used the occasion to admonish Cross Riverians in public service to deliver effectively when entrusted with leadership responsibilities, stressing that hard work and accountability are the surest ways to earn recognition and honour.
Ambassador Abang, visibly moved by the recognition, thanked the organisers for finding him worthy of honour. He assured the gathering that his doors would always remain open to the Boki people and promised sustained support for initiatives that uplift the community.
The host of the event, Hon. Bette Philip Obi, Member representing Boki I State Constituency, praised Governor Otu for his support to the Boki people so far and appealed for further interventions in critical sectors that directly affect the local government.
Other leaders honoured on the day included Hon. Sir Victor Abang, Member representing Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency, and Hon. Peter A. Akpanke, Member representing Obanliku, Obudu, and Bekwara Federal Constituency, who were both decorated with chieftaincy titles.
Awards of Honour were also presented to Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Sen. Eteng Jonas Williams, Hon. Oden Ewa, Hon. Eti-Eka (Mrs.) Beatrice E. Nyaim, Hon. Cletus Obun, Hon. Ankpo Pius, Barr. Ekpeyoung Akiba, Barr. Attah Ochinke, High Chief Henry Igelle Onwe (Ph.D.), Engr. Chief Kelvin Osang Njong (JP), Dir. Obi Ayuk, Hon. Sammy Ankwo, Michael Eshua Eban, and Mr. Pascal Kijie Bubua.
The event, chaired by Hon. Oden Ewa, Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, drew a large crowd of dignitaries and stakeholders, including Mrs. Soni Abang, wife of Ambassador Abang; Hon. Eti-Eka (Mrs.) Beatrice E. Nyaim, Executive Chairman of Boki Local Government Council; Mr. Sylvester Abang, State Chief of Protocol; Hon. Boniface Okache and his wife; the Deputy Chief of Staff; members of the Cross River State House of Assembly; local government chairmen; political appointees; representatives of the Cocoa Association of Cross River State; and many others.
The colourful reception was enlivened by cultural performances, goodwill messages, and solidarity speeches. In his closing prayers, the Paramount Ruler of Boki blessed the honourees and urged them to continue their good works in the service of the people.
Patrick Asuquo
Special Assistant, Media
Office of the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State
August 18, 2025
