In a bid to foster educational and community development, the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, held a strategic meeting with the Governing Council of the College of Education – Akamkpa. The meeting, described as a “family discussion,” centred on fostering collaboration and strengthening the institution’s role as a bedrock for future leaders.
Hon. Akposi, who attributed his emergence as chairman to divine providence, assured the board of his commitment to prioritising the interests of the local government and the college. “The College of Education is the heart of Akamkpa, and elevating the institution is a step in the right direction,” he stated, pledging to support the school in achieving a facelift that would bolster its impact on the community.
The chairman further emphasised the importance of unity and progressive thinking among the people of Akamkpa, describing the meeting as an opportunity to align visions for mutual benefit. He expressed optimism about a “positive revolution” in the local government, adding that Akamkpa is on the path to transformation. “We need to reengineer the minds of our young ones and persuade our children to embrace education,” he urged.
Prof. Patrick Asuquo, the Provost of the College and a member of the Governing Council, lauded the chairman’s vision and expressed the council’s readiness to collaborate with the council in areas such as research, data generation, and teaching practices. “This partnership will not only strengthen the institution but also empower the local community to reclaim its pride of place,” Prof. Asuquo remarked.
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Bob Etta, highlighted the need for sustained dialogue and mutual respect between the council and the college. Using a symbolic analogy, he said, “One must meet the owner of a house to have a resounding welcome.” He stressed that it was time for the local government and the institution to reclaim their shared heritage for the benefit of the host community.
Addressing the challenges facing the local government, the chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council acknowledged the gaps that had existed since the expiration of the last administration. However, he described these challenges as opportunities for growth and development. “Challenges are not meant to scare us but to strengthen us,” Hon. Akposi remarked, committing everything into God’s hands.
The chairman reiterated his commitment to unity, prayer, and a progressive mindset, which he described as vital ingredients for success. He assured the board of a positive and committed engagement to ensure the goals of both the council and the college are achieved.
In a call to action, the chairman stressed the need to inculcate a sense of responsibility among young people in Akamkpa. “Education remains the cornerstone of a prosperous future, and we must all work together to create opportunities for our children to thrive,” he said.
The meeting ended on a hopeful note, with both parties agreeing to explore areas of collaboration that would drive development and educational excellence in Akamkpa.
As prayers were offered for the chairman to surmount challenges, the event highlighted a shared determination to uplift the institution and the local government for the greater good.