December 2, 2025
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, on Tuesday received members of the Northern Cross River State Postgraduate Students Association (NOCRSPSA) during a courtesy visit to his office. The delegation, led by the association’s President, Mr. Sunday Augustine Apeh, congratulated Senator Odey on his elevation and commended him for his exceptional contributions to the state’s education sector. Mr. Apeh noted that as postgraduate students, there were areas in which they would require the Commissioner’s guidance and support.
In recognition of his leadership qualities, fatherly disposition, and commitment to educational excellence, the association formally announced Professor Odey as their Grand Patron and decorated him with a robe of honour.
Responding, Professor Odey expressed deep appreciation for the recognition. He commended the association for its initiative and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting their academic and professional pursuits. He advised the young professionals to uphold humility, hard work, and integrity, stressing that these virtues open doors for long-term growth and meaningful relationships.
“Work hard and apply humility, and I’m sure that in a few years, the road will open,” he said.
Sharing insights from his personal journey, Senator Prof. Odey recounted how humility and perseverance shaped his path—from serving as a legislative aide in the Senate after law school to later becoming a Senator. He highlighted the value of building strong networks, noting that many of his current collaborations, including those with former Senate colleagues, stem from relationships developed years ago.
“Wherever you find yourself, build good relationships. Have someone you can trust,” he advised. He cautioned against ethnic or regional bias, adding, “It may not even be someone from your place that will take you to the next level.”
Professor Odey further emphasized competence and integrity as key determinants of leadership opportunities. He explained that many of the people he works with are chosen based on merit, not origin.
“A lot of people who work with me are not from my place. Their ability to deliver is what matters. Integrity is the one thing that leads you to all these opportunities,” he noted.
He encouraged the association to see themselves as a united community with shared goals and assured them of his continued support.
“Anything my team can do to help, we will do. We are going to work together, not only as students but as stakeholders in the constituency. At this level, we are all stakeholders,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Elder Richard Ugeh thanked the Commissioner for his consistent support for humanity, his open-door policy, and for graciously accepting the role of Grand Patron of the Association.