The Chairman of the Cross River State Forestry Commission (CRSFC), Rt. Hon. Dr. George O'ben-Etchi, has accepted an invitation to chair the upcoming Ofu Oban Cultural Festival, scheduled for November 7, 2026.
The announcement followed a recent courtesy visit to his office by a delegation from the Ejagham nation, led by Leo Ndifon, President of the Ejik Oban Development Association.
This cultural collaboration aligns with the broader vision of His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, to foster cultural preservation and socio-political harmony across Cross River State.
During the visit, key stakeholders—including Dr. Effa of the University of Calabar and local counselor Hon. Dominic Offiong—praised the CRSFC Chairman for his proven track record in job creation, youth empowerment, and steadfast support for local candidates during crucial election cycles.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. O'ben-Etchi highlighted his profound affection for the Oban community, noting its strategic importance in Constituency 2 politics and its citizens' deep dedication to higher education. He also shared his long-term optimism that Oban would one day serve as a local government headquarters.
Using the platform to advocate for positive societal change, the Chairman pivotally called on the Ejagham nation to reject political backbiting and embrace *Ubuntu*—the African philosophy of communal growth. He urged the community to shield its leaders from election-driven insults, advocating instead for a protective, supportive culture where brothers lift one another up.
The visit concluded with expressions of gratitude from local beneficiaries and members of the Central Planning Committee, who commended the Chairman’s accessibility and pledged the community's continued alliance.
By Christiana Ushang
