December 3, 2025
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, on Wednesday met with the management team, including the Principal and the Parent Teachers Association (PTA) Executive of UBEC Vocational Secondary School, Akpabuyo. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Education Headquarters in Calabar, was convened to address and resolve internal administrative issues affecting the smooth running of the institution.
During the session, Professor Odey expressed concern over emerging local policies within the school’s management which, he warned, were capable of creating division and disrupting academic stability. He emphasized that the school was established to provide quality basic and technical education — not to promote narrow interests or internal power blocs. The Commissioner reiterated that factionalism among staff and management would not be tolerated, stressing the need for unity, professionalism, and a peaceful working environment. He made it clear that any action that undermines the institution’s operations or academic performance would attract strict sanctions.
As part of corrective measures to restore order and restructure the school’s leadership, Prof. Odey announced the immediate transfer of key management staff, including:
Mr. Okon Clement Xavier – Principal
Mrs. Njong Esther Nkure – Vice Principal
Mr. Bassey Bassey
Mr. Edet Okon
He stated that the transfers were necessary to reposition the school for improved efficiency and accountability.
Addressing issues related to community interference, Professor Odey reiterated that no individual or group has the authority to claim ownership of a government school or disrupt its operations. He urged community members to desist from actions that hinder teaching and learning, emphasizing that school managers must be allowed to perform their duties without intimidation or undue pressure.
The Commissioner also expressed profound appreciation to Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, for his unwavering commitment to transforming the state’s education sector. He noted that the Governor’s continued support underscores a strong resolve to reposition education for greater impact.
Some stakeholders present at the meeting included:
Mrs. Offiong Ani Offiong – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education
Dr. Emmanuel Achibong – Executive Secretary, Technical Education Board
Mr. Itam Cyril – Director, Special Duties, Ministry of Education
Dr. Teresa Essien – Board Member II, SUBEB
Mr. Etim Paul Edem – Executive Secretary, Akpabuyo LGA.