The leadership journey of Grace Etim Bassey began with a deep passion for community development and humanitarian service. Starting in the NGO/CSO space, she worked closely with grassroots communities mobilizing, educating, and empowering women and youths. This early experience shaped her understanding of local challenges and strengthened her commitment to impactful leadership.
First Tenure: Community-Focused Representation
During her first tenure as Councillor in Bakassi, she focused on addressing immediate needs and creating opportunities. Her key contributions included:
- Supporting 10 youths to benefit from the Federal Government Survival Fund
- Facilitating a Focus Group Discussion with fish farmers in partnership with Winrock International
- Organizing the International Day of the Girl Child, distributing educational and hygiene materials
- Advocating COVID-19 awareness in border communities
- Participating in a fact-finding committee on the environmental impact of Lafarge activities
- Distributing energy-efficient cooking stoves to women
- Partnering with Marie Stopes Nigeria to support women’s health needs
These efforts strengthened her leadership capacity and community impact.
Second Term: Expanded Leadership and Legislative Impact
In her second term, she was re-elected as Councillor and also emerged as Leader of the 7th Bakassi Legislative Council, expanding her influence both at the community and legislative levels.
Achievements as Councillor
- Distribution of educational materials and payment of school fees for pupils
- Advocacy for the boy child during International Day of the Boy Child
- Financial support for farmers to boost coffee production
- Hosting a town hall meeting to enhance accountability
- Facilitating girl-child empowerment programs
- Establishing a cooperative through partnership with Centre LSD (WIFE Project)
- Promoting home gardening and sustainable livelihoods
- Training 250 farmers on organic agriculture in collaboration with Health of Mother Earth Foundation
Legislative Achievements
As Leader, she has guided the council to:
- Move 7 impactful motions
- Pass 4 byelaws within one year
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Greater Representation
With a track record rooted in service and results, Grace Etim Bassey now aspires to represent Bakassi State Constituency at the Cross River State House of Assembly.
She aims to amplify the voices of her people, attract development, and strengthen governance through effective legislation, representation, and oversight.
Her journey reflects growth from grassroots advocacy to legislative leadership—driven by commitment, resilience, and a vision for a better Bakassi.
“I remain committed to service. I remain committed to Bakassi. The journey continues.”
