The 34th anniversary of Akpabuyo Local Government Area in Cross River State was a resounding celebration of peace, progress, and cultural heritage. The event, held at the council headquarters, drew large crowds eager to partake in the festivities, a testament to the restored security and stability in the region. Dr. Emana Ambrose-Amawhe, former Deputy Governorship Candidate, lauded Governor Bassey Otu’s administration for creating an environment where such a large-scale gathering was possible, contrasting the current peace with the insecurity that plagued the area in previous years. The celebration served as a platform to highlight Akpabuyo’s strategic advantages and the potential for future growth.
Akpabuyo’s geographical location, bordered by rivers, Bakassi, and the Atlantic Ocean, positions it as a natural maritime gateway. Ambrose-Amawhe emphasized the government’s commitment to capitalizing on this advantage through investments in dredging, deep-sea port development, and marine ecosystem preservation. These initiatives are expected to transform Akpabuyo into a bustling hub for maritime trade, driving economic growth and creating employment opportunities for residents, particularly farmers and fishermen. The revitalization of the local economy is expected to contribute significantly to the overall economic advancement of Cross River State and Nigeria.
A significant highlight of the anniversary celebration was the reopening of Akpabuyo’s historic barter trade market, a unique feature in West Africa. This market, shuttered for years due to prevailing insecurity, is now a symbol of the community’s resilience and economic rebirth. The revival of traditional exchange practices, such as trading fish for garri and palm oil, reinforces cultural identity while simultaneously boosting economic activity. This resurgence is also seen as a positive development for the All Progressives Congress-led government at both the state and national levels.
Women, identified as the backbone of agriculture and trade in Akpabuyo, were given special recognition during the celebration. Ambrose-Amawhe praised the ongoing empowerment programs aimed at providing women with greater access to resources and opportunities in farming and commerce. This focus on women’s empowerment underscores the importance of their contributions to the local economy and the commitment to their continued growth and prosperity.
Effiom Effiong, Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government, expressed immense satisfaction at hosting the first official anniversary celebration of the council’s creation. He attributed the success of the event to the prevailing peace established under Governor Otu’s leadership, noting the minimal security presence required. Effiong shared news of growing investor interest in Akpabuyo, with companies from China and other countries expressing interest in ventures such as a university and various industries, further highlighting the area’s growing economic potential. The chairman also outlined plans to modernize the barter market, transforming it into a world-class commercial center capable of attracting even more investment. The influx of cross-border traders from Cameroon and neighboring regions is already contributing to the local economy’s dynamism.
Recognizing the importance of cultural preservation, Effiong urged Akpabuyo’s youth to embrace their heritage, particularly the Efik language, which faces the risk of decline among younger generations. He stressed the value of cultural traditions and encouraged higher education institutions to incorporate the local language into their curriculum, ensuring its survival and transmission to future generations. Agriculture also played a prominent role in the anniversary celebrations, with Effiong highlighting the positive impact of Governor Otu’s mechanized farming initiatives. These initiatives are generating employment, enhancing food security, and improving accessibility to rural communities, contributing to the overall development of Akpabuyo. The 34th anniversary of Akpabuyo’s creation transcended a mere cultural festival; it served as a powerful testament to the region’s resilience, its burgeoning economic significance, and its potential to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s maritime and agricultural future.
