The Cross River State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives that promote community development and improve the wellbeing of the people, with the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Dodeye Ikpi Arikpo, assuring individuals and community-based organisations of government’s support for programmes that contribute to the growth of the state.
Arikpo gave the assurance on Tuesday when members of the Exquisite Royal Pearls Club of Ugep (ERPCU) paid him a congratulatory visit at the headquarters of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations in Calabar.
The Commissioner said the government remains interested in initiatives that complement its efforts to improve communities and create opportunities for people to contribute to societal development.
He urged the club to remain consistent in its programmes and encouraged its members to take active interest in political and civic activities, noting that such participation would provide opportunities to engage key stakeholders and contribute meaningfully to the development of society.
Arikpo said the government would continue to support programmes capable of advancing the growth and development of Cross River State and improving the wellbeing of its people.
“I sincerely appreciate you for coming to congratulate me and for identifying with me at this time. Your gesture is encouraging, and I commend the club for the good work it is doing in the community,” he said.
Earlier, President General of the Exquisite Royal Pearls Club, Mrs. Gift Nnana Netus, said the visit was to congratulate Arikpo on his appointment and identify with him as he assumes his new responsibility.
“We are here to congratulate you on your appointment and to identify with you as you begin this new responsibility. We believe that leadership is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people,” Netus said.
She said caring for the less privileged remained one of the major priorities of the club, adding that its programmes were focused on promoting compassion, empowerment and community development.
“Our commitment is to promote compassion, empowerment and community development. We want our activities to have a meaningful impact on the lives of the people, particularly those who need support,” she said.
Netus disclosed that the club was planning a programme to commemorate the forthcoming International Day of the Girl Child, with a focus on supporting and empowering the girl child.
She also disclosed that the organisation was involved in the ongoing construction of a civic centre in Ugep, describing the project as part of its contribution to the development of the community.
By Gift Otudor
