June 4, 2026
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, Esq., has inaugurated the State Data Management Information System (DNMIS) Coordination Unit in compliance with the directive of the Federal Ministry of Education aimed at strengthening education data management, coordination, monitoring, and reporting across the state.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Ministry of Education Headquarters Calabar, and was attended by Directors of the Ministry, officials of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), representatives of private schools, and other key stakeholders in the education sector.
Leading the nomination process was the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics (PRS), Ministry of Education, Mr. Ogbor Emmanuel Eku, alongside other Directors of the Ministry.
The members of the inaugurated DNMIS Coordination Unit include:
- Akedoh Edet, Statistician-General, who serves as Chairman;
- Mr. Ogbor Ntui Eku, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics (PRS), Ministry of Education;
- Dr. (Mrs.) Fanny Obeten Ekabua, Director of Quality Assurance, Ministry of Education,
- Mr. Udowong Odiong Udowong, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics (PRS), SUBEB,
- Mr. Sunday Abua, Director of Social Mobilization, SUBEB,
- Mr. Archibong Okon Archibong, Director of Quality Assurance, SUBEB,
- Mr. Abraham Osok, State Chairman of the National Association of Private Schools (NAPS), and
- Mr. Edem Ita Esien, all serving as members of the committee.
Addressing the newly inaugurated committee, Professor Odey emphasized that Cross River State is already ahead in recognizing the critical importance of data in educational planning and development. He noted that accurate and timely data remain indispensable tools for shaping effective educational policies, programmes, and interventions.
The Commissioner expressed confidence in the capacity of the committee members, stating that they had demonstrated commitment and professionalism in their various responsibilities, which informed their selection for the assignment.
“As members of this committee, you are to serve as the coordinating body responsible for overseeing and driving these activities before they reach my office. From the records and reports I have seen, I am convinced that you are dedicated and serious-minded individuals,” he said.
Senator Odey stressed that the assignment should not be taken lightly, adding that commitment, dedication, and diligence are essential to the success of the initiative.
“I have always maintained that any responsibility entrusted to you should be carried out as though there is no tomorrow. It is your hard work and proven competence that have earned you a place on this committee,” he stated.
The Commissioner further charged the committee members to work assiduously towards the development and growth of education in Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole, noting that the establishment of the DNMIS Coordination Unit would significantly enhance data-driven decision-making and improve educational planning and service delivery across the state.
Professor Odey assured the committee of the Ministry’s support and expressed optimism that the team would successfully deliver on its mandate for the benefit of the education sector. The inauguration of the DNMIS Coordination Unit marks another strategic step by the Cross River State Government towards strengthening institutional capacity, improving education data systems, and aligning with national standards for effective educational management and planning.