The residents of Akpabuyo Local Government Area in Cross River State are charting a fresh path centered on peace, security, and economic growth, as they marked the 34th anniversary of the council’s creation with cultural displays, community celebrations, and renewed commitment to progress. The event, held at the council headquarters, was filled with optimism as leaders and residents celebrated the return of peace to the area. Former PDP Deputy Governorship Candidate, Dr. Emana Duke Ambrose-Amawhe, expressed gratitude for the restoration of stability, emphasizing that insecurity in the past would have made such a large gathering impossible. She attributed the turnaround to the efforts of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who she said had put measures in place to ensure calm. “Today, people can sleep peacefully in their homes. That is why you see people from far and near participating in this celebration,” she said. Akpabuyo’s Strategic Maritime Position Dr. Ambrose-Amawhe underscored the strategic location of Akpabuyo, describing it as a natural maritime gateway bordered by rivers, Bakassi, and the Atlantic Ocean. She revealed that ongoing projects such as dredging, deep-sea port development, and marine ecosystem preservation would transform the community into a hub for maritime trade and economic growth. She noted that farmers and fishermen are key beneficiaries of these government-backed initiatives. “With this pace of growth, Akpabuyo will play a vital role in advancing the economy of Cross River State and Nigeria. More jobs will bring more stability to our people,” she added. Revival of Historic Barter Trade Market One of the highlights of the celebration was the reopening of Akpabuyo’s unique barter trade market, the only one of its kind in West Africa, which had been shut down for years due to insecurity. The market revival, where locals traditionally exchange fish for garri and palm oil, was described as a symbol of cultural resilience and economic rebirth, while also showcasing the success of the APC-led government in promoting development. Dr. Emana emphasized the critical role of women, calling them the “backbone of agriculture and trade”, and praised empowerment programs aimed at supporting their involvement in farming and business. Council Chairman Celebrates Historic Anniversary The Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government, Hon. Effiom Bassey Effiong, expressed joy at presiding over the council’s first-ever official anniversary celebration. “This is the birthday of Akpabuyo, and I am glad it happened during my administration. The turnout reflects how happy our people are, and next year will be even bigger,” he said. He credited the peace achieved in the area to Governor Bassey Otu, noting that the event was successful with only minimal security presence. Hon. Effiong highlighted the presence of Marine Police, Navy, Army, Air Force, and local vigilantes, which had ensured safety. He disclosed that foreign investors, including Chinese partners, have already acquired land to establish a university and industries, boosting local development. Transformation of Akpabuyo into a Commercial Hub The chairman also revealed plans to upgrade the barter market into a modern commercial hub, attracting more investors and expanding trade. Cross-border traders from Cameroon and neighboring regions are already contributing to increased economic activity. At the event, he urged Akpabuyo youths to preserve their cultural identity by learning and speaking the Efik language, which he warned was at risk of extinction among younger generations. “Our culture and traditions are valuable. We encourage our youths, especially those in higher institutions, to learn our mother tongue so it is not lost,” he appealed. Agriculture and Food Security at the Forefront Agriculture took center stage during the celebration. Effiong explained that Akpabuyo, being an agrarian community, has already begun benefiting from Governor Otu’s mechanized farming programs, which are creating jobs, enhancing food security, and developing rural areas. Reflecting on Akpabuyo’s creation from Odukpani Local Government in 1991, speakers agreed that the 34th anniversary was not just a cultural festival but a testament to Akpabuyo’s resilience, economic importance, and potential role in Nigeria’s maritime and agricultural future.
