The Yache Youth Forum, led by its President General, Comrade Frank Alim Okpe, on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, at his office in the Ministry of Education Headquarters, Calabar. The visit was to congratulate the Commissioner on his recent elevation to the rank of Professor and to express appreciation for his continuous support to the Yache Nation, including his recent ₦10 million donation towards the immediate reconstruction of the Orierie Bridge in Uchu-Yache, which was recently destroyed by flooding.
In his remarks, the President General reflected on the tremendous progress recorded in Yache over the past decade under the leadership and guidance of Senator Professor Stephen Odey. He noted that the Commissioner’s intentional approach to development has enabled Yache youth to stand tall among their peers across communities. Comrade Okpe described Professor Odey as “a true leader, mentor, and symbol of excellence in administration, business, politics, academics, and leadership.”
Responding, Professor Odey expressed gratitude to the youth for their recognition and solidarity. He emphasized the importance of unity, focus, and collaboration in driving sustainable development, noting that greater progress can only be achieved when people work together in harmony. He assured the youths of his continued commitment to the development of Yache and Cross River State at large, while urging them to maintain their support for Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, which he said is already recognizing and rewarding loyal communities with meaningful development projects.