August 30, 2026
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Sen. Prof. Stephen Odey, Esq., on Sunday performed the groundbreaking and foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed Itega Okpudu Community Secondary School in Itega Okpudu, Yala Local Government Area. The project is sponsored by Dr. Christopher Ogar, Founder/CEO of Okrache Safe Alive Foundation.
In his remarks, Professor Odey formally laid the foundation stone and announced plans for the construction of a new government sponsored six-classroom block. He also promised granting the approval for the establishment of the school and assured the community of the deployment of qualified teachers upon completion. The Commissioner reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the administration of Governor Bassey Otu to the transformation of the education sector, noting that the project would be captured in subsequent education budgetary provisions.
He commended the Itega Okpudu community for its proactive efforts in expanding access to education for its children and assured them of sustained government support, particularly through anticipated 2027 budgetary interventions in the basic education sector. Senator Odey further pledged to facilitate all necessary processes to secure full government recognition for the school. Describing the occasion as a major milestone in advancing access to quality education in the area, the Commissioner expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded him by the community.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including High Chief Higgins Peters, AVM Ogbeche (Rtd), Major General Michael Agi, Hon. Dr. Beatrice Igwe, among others.