CALABAR –The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu for their roles in nominating two prominent Cross Riverians to serve in the newly constituted South-South Development Commission (SSDC).
In a statement signed by CRSCF Chairman, Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq. and fourteen others, the Forum described the nominations of Ambassador Sony Abang as Executive Director (Finance) and Hon. Larry Odey as Commissioner as “a step in the right direction,” adding that the appointments reflect a renewed commitment to inclusive governance and regional equity.
“These nominations recognize Cross River’s pivotal role in the South-South and showcase the value of inclusive federalism,” the Forum stated.
The commendation follows President Tinubu’s official communication to the National Assembly requesting confirmation of appointees for the South-South, South-West, and North-Central Development Commissions. For the SSDC, eighteen nominees were submitted, with Chibudom Nwuche named as Chairman and Usoro Offiong Akpabio as Managing Director.
Ambassador Abang and Hon. Odey join this strategic team, which is expected to drive infrastructure and economic development across the oil-rich region.
The CRSCF praised Governor Otu’s persistent advocacy for equitable representation across the state’s senatorial districts, noting that his efforts contributed to the balanced inclusion of Cross Riverians in key national development platforms.
“The Forum remains confident that Ambassador Abang’s vast experience in finance and diplomacy, alongside Hon. Odey’s administrative insight, will greatly enhance the SSDC’s capacity to deliver on its mandate,” the statement added.
It also urged the Senate to expedite the screening and confirmation process, stressing the urgency of activating the SSDC’s development goals.
Hon Larry Odey
Ambassador Sony Abang
