The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has commended the Cross River State Government and the Executive Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, Hon. Christopher Eweh Agbeh, for their sustained partnership and support in advancing humanitarian interventions for refugees and host communities in the state.
The commendation came, weekend, during a courtesy visit by the outgoing Head of the UNHCR Sub-Office for Cross River and Benue States, Mrs. Irene Omondi, who formally introduced her successor, Mr. Alpha Oumar Barring, and expressed appreciation for the cooperation extended to the agency throughout her tenure.
Mrs. Omondi praised the Cross River State Government for its commitment to refugee protection and humanitarian assistance, while describing Chairman Agbeh as a dependable partner whose open and supportive leadership created an enabling environment for the UN refugee agency to effectively implement programmes benefiting both refugees and their host communities.
“I want to sincerely thank the Chairman and the Cross River State Government for the tremendous cooperation we enjoyed throughout my assignment. The support we received enabled UNHCR to effectively serve refugees and host communities in Ogoja,” she said.
She expressed confidence that the cordial relationship between the UNHCR, the Cross River State Government and the Ogoja Local Government Council would continue under the leadership of her successor, Mr. Alpha Oumar Barring.
In his remarks, Barring pledged to consolidate on the existing partnership, assuring that the UNHCR would continue working closely with the state government and the Ogoja Local Government Council to strengthen humanitarian interventions and improve the welfare of refugees and their host communities.
Responding, Chairman Agbeh reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of both Ogoja residents and refugees residing in the Adagom settlement, stressing that peaceful coexistence, inclusion and sustainable development remain central to his administration’s priorities.
The chairman also disclosed plans to rename the Adagom Refugee Settlement as Adagom 4 Settlement, explaining that the initiative is intended to promote social integration, foster a stronger sense of belonging and reduce the stigma often associated with refugee settlements.
Agbeh said the proposed change would reinforce the integration of refugees into the wider community while preserving peace, harmony and stability within the settlement.
He reaffirmed the council’s readiness to deepen its collaboration with the Cross River State Government, the UNHCR and other development partners in expanding humanitarian support, strengthening community resilience and improving the living conditions of both refugees and their host communities.
By Kingsley Agim
