The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi, KSJI, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security infrastructure within the local government area, as he hosted the Committee for Delineation and Demarcation of Divisions and Area Commands of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the Executive Chambers of the Akamkpa Local Government Council on Monday, February 17, 2025.
Welcoming the delegation, Hon. Akposi lauded the proactive measures undertaken by the NSCDC at both the national and state levels to bolster security coverage. He underscored the urgency of addressing the evolving security landscape, noting that insecurity remains a global menace requiring strategic intervention.
“What we are witnessing is the hallmark of purpose-driven leadership, where the security and welfare of the people are given utmost priority. Insecurity has become an existential challenge across the world, but the true measure of leadership lies in the decisive steps taken to confront and neutralise these threats,” he asserted.
Hon. Akposi highlighted Sen. Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s resolute efforts in reshaping the security narrative in Cross River State, particularly through the recent launch of Operation Okwok, which has significantly curtailed criminal activities. He further noted his administration’s firm stance against security lapses in Akamkpa, recalling the hurdles encountered upon assuming office and his unwavering resolve to implement his security-centric policy blueprint.
“We have surmounted the initial challenges, and today, we are making great strides. Recently, we secured approval for the elevation of Oban Police Post to a full-fledged Police Division, awaiting commissioning.Coverage are witnessing another milestone—the establishment of another NSCDC division in Oban, strengthening the Akamkpa Urban Division, and the establishment of an Area Command in Uyanga, to extend security coverage from Akamkpa to Biase LGA.”
Reaffirming his support for the NSCDC’s structural expansion, the Chairman assured that the council possesses the requisite framework for the seamless establishment of these formations. However, he urged the agency to take an active role in the development of its facilities, rather than relying solely on the local government.
“Security should never be politicised. I am committed to ensuring that we put the right structures in place for a functional and effective security network. This partnership is not fleeting—it is an enduring alliance that will grow from strength to strength,” he pledged.
He further directed the NSCDC delegation to convey his administration’s unwavering commitment to the State Command and National Headquarters, assuring that their request for land allocation to build the NSCDC Division in Akamkpa will be granted in the next council meeting, with title documents presented in black and white.
NSCDC Commends Chairman’s Security Drive
Earlier, DCC Ogban Ndika N., Chairman of the NSCDC Committee for Delineation and Demarcation of Divisions and Area Commands, lauded Hon. Akposi’s pragmatic leadership, noting his proactive engagement in tackling security challenges, including his direct interventions in crisis-prone areas.
“Your antecedents speak volumes, and we had no doubt that our mission here would yield tremendous success. Akamkpa’s vast expanse—larger in land mass than some states—justifies the need for a new division and additional operational facilities. Our proposal includes establishing a division in Oban, which will fortify border security and enhance territorial surveillance,” he stated.
DCC Ndika further disclosed that intelligence gathered during the last election cycle had revealed security flashpoints, necessitating an upscale in NSCDC presence for greater efficiency and operational effectiveness.
Council Leadership Backs NSCDC Expansion
Aligning with the Chairman’s position, Mr. Ibangha Ike, the Head of Local Government Administration, reinforced the strategic necessity of empowering security agencies to function optimally. He reiterated that every visionary leader must prioritise security, confirming that land allocation, backed by a title deed, will be facilitated as promised by the Chairman to ensure swift action by the NSCDC National Headquarters.
Also in attendance were senior officers of the NSCDC, including DSC Igogo John Ogah, ASC II Umana Peace Linus, ACC Offor Offor Bassey, ACC Bisong Destiny, ACC Samuel Eleke, ASC I Okah Ibangha Egom, DC Grace A. Osim-Ekpe (DO for Akamkpa), among others.
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to fortify security operations within Akamkpa and its environs, further cementing Hon. Akposi’s administration as one deeply committed to safeguarding lives and property.
Photo story