The Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Amb. Dr. Sunny Ebebe Ayang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, inclusive governance and sustainable development as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary.
In his Independence Day message to the people of Obanliku, Ayang said the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey while renewing their commitment to building a more stable and prosperous nation.
He said the national theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity,” underscores the need for patience, unity, responsible citizenship and collective efforts to translate ongoing reforms into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.
The Chairman said his administration had remained focused on translating the same principles into practical action at the local level, despite existing financial and administrative constraints.
Ayang particularly highlighted the administration’s commitment to youth and gender inclusion, noting that young people and women had been given opportunities to participate directly in governance through appointments to various positions of responsibility.
According to him, the administration has made over 100 appointments across various responsibilities, compared with fewer than 50 statutory appointments, in an effort to broaden participation in government.
He acknowledged that the expanded structure had placed additional responsibilities and financial commitments on the administration, but said the decision was deliberate and aimed at giving more people, especially youths and women, an opportunity to contribute to the development of the Local Government Area.
One Year of Development Interventions
Reflecting on the administration’s first year in office, Ayang listed several interventions, including the renovation and restoration of the Primary Health Centre in Utanga, completion of the Education Authority Office, establishment of Obanliku Riders, and the payment of bursaries to more than 100 students in tertiary institutions.
He also cited the administration’s interventions towards restoring peace in crisis-affected communities in Basang, Bishiri and neighbouring communities in Benue State.
On rural infrastructure, the Chairman said the administration had graded the 9-kilometre Buya-Sikpeche Road, while also recording significant improvement in internally generated revenue compared with what was inherited.
Ayang further acknowledged the support of the Cross River State Government under Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, particularly towards the commencement of the proposed over 15-kilometre standard road project with drainage infrastructure, extending through the Sankwala metropolis towards Basang and Bendi.
He said ongoing efforts towards the reactivation of the Bebi Airstrip and the Obudu Mountain Resort could create new opportunities in tourism, transportation, employment and economic activity across Obanliku and the northern part of Cross River State.
The Chairman said his administration would continue to collaborate with political, traditional and community leaders within and outside Obanliku to position the Local Government Area to benefit from emerging opportunities in the tourism and wider local economy.
He identified infrastructure development, agriculture, tourism, employment creation and support for local businesses as key areas through which the administration intends to strengthen the economic base of the area.
“There Is Still Much Work to Be Done”
Ayang also acknowledged that the administration had not been able to meet every expectation within its first year, assuring residents that the government would continue to listen, learn and improve.
“There is still much work to be done. We will continue to listen, learn and improve, while doing everything within our capacity to protect and advance the development of Obanliku,” he said.
The Chairman called on the people of Obanliku to remain united and place the collective interest of their communities above divisions, stressing that unity remains one of the Local Government’s greatest strengths.
He concluded by wishing residents a peaceful and prosperous new month and Independence celebration, while praying for continued progress in Obanliku, Cross River State and Nigeria.
Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria.
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