In celebration of Easter and in appreciation of his loyal support base, the Member representing Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Bassey Akiba, held a special interactive meeting with his women support group popularly known as BB Babes. The event provided an opportunity for reflection, appreciation, and the unveiling of his core development priorities.
The gathering, which was organized under the leadership of Mrs. Nkoyo Otu, Special Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs to the Governor of Cross River State and Director General of the Bassey Otu Bassey Akiba Babes (BB Babes), aimed to strengthen the bond between Rep. Akiba and his grassroots supporters, particularly women who have remained steadfast in their loyalty.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Nkoyo Otu emphasized the significance of the meeting, stating that the women are genuinely grateful for the opportunity to work closely with Rep. Akiba, and are fully aligned with his vision for the constituency.
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Rep. Bassey Akiba, in his speech, expressed deep gratitude to the women, acknowledging their unwavering support even in his absence. He noted that their consistency and dedication are the backbone of his political journey. According to him, the gathering was not just a celebration, but also a platform for familiarization, engagement, and strategy-sharing.
He encouraged the women to be actively involved in political activities, highlighting the increasing participation of women in the current administration. He urged them to see him not just as a representative, but as a partner willing to share ideas, energy, and responsibility in moving the constituency forward.
Rep. Akiba reaffirmed that their past efforts and achievements were not in vain and assured them of continued recognition and inclusion in his development plans.
He then outlined his three core focus areas which will define his tenure:
- Health
- Livelihood
- Education
He explained that his major approach to addressing these areas is through cooperative societies, which already have thousands of participants. These cooperatives serve as a grassroots platform for empowering constituents, especially women and youth, with resources and training.
Rep. Akiba also clarified that while he is committed to any developmental project whether roads, electricity, or water if such projects fall outside his three main priorities, he would welcome them but would not fund them personally. His primary investments will remain in the sectors he has chosen as his mandate.
Lady Maria-Assumpta Offiong, Deputy State Women Leader of the APC. Charged the attendees and Rep. Akiba to remain dedicated and make every promise count.
Lady Maria-Assumpta reminded Rep. Akiba of his earlier promises and encouraged him to fulfill them, expressing confidence in his capacity. She concluded by applauding his efforts so far and reaffirmed the unwavering support of the women in his constituency
Also present at the event was Mrs Eme Awatt, Chairman of CRS Library Board, Ekanem Edet, State Assistant Financial Secretary, Dr. Mrs. Afiong Ugbaja, Special Adviser on Education to the Governor of Cross River State
Dr. Mrs. Afiong Ugbaja, Led the Bassey Otu, Bassey Akiba Babes (BB BABES) to publicly announce their Endorsement towards the leadership of Prince Bassey Edet Otu and Rt. Hon. Bassey Akiba as a continuation come 2027.
