In what can best be described as a crowning moment of distinction, the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, has been honoured with the Leadership Service Award by Wilmar International—an accolade that underscores his uncommon dedication to grassroots governance and his unrelenting pursuit of excellence in public service. The recognition, conferred by one of the foremost agribusiness giants in the Cross River State, signals a vote of confidence in a style of leadership that blends prudence, pragmatism, and people-centred development.
The award, presented in a modest but momentous ceremony, recognised the Chairman’s sterling accomplishments in governance, particularly in fostering a secure and business-friendly environment in Akamkpa. The honour, according to Wilmar, was in appreciation of his hands-on approach, visionary outlook, and demonstrable results in local administration.
In his acceptance remarks, Hon. Akposi, visibly moved by the recognition, dedicated the award “to God Almighty, the good people of Akamkpa, and the entire council team including the dedicated staff who work behind the scenes daily.”
“Our qualifications come from God,” he declared. “My call to service is engineered by the desire to bring good governance to my people. There are several challenges, but this award goes to show that we are making meaningful progress.”
Underscoring his commitment to public service, the Chairman noted that he does not take the mandate of governance lightly.
“I owe my people quality governance, especially in the area of security. Where there is security, there is ease of doing business. We are not resting, we are poised to do more,” he concluded with firm conviction.
Earlier, the General Manager of Wilmar, Mr. Ananth Arumugam thanked the Chairman for finding time to honour the event. “The little I have been about you and the brief interface I have with you speaks commitment, sincerity and groundswell devotion. You are very principled and down to earth. How you manage these qualities makes you a very interesting and excellent leader”.
“While we were contemplating on some issues and how to go about them, you brought solution with ease. You are truly God sent at this period”.
“We are pleased to inform you of our decision to commence a scholarship scheme in all our host communities being part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It will not be a one-off thing, hence, we have constituted a board to this effect. We want to work with you and this partnership will not be ephemeral but will stand the test of time”, he concluded.
Further ventilating the position of Management, Mr. Antigha Esiet lauded the Chairman for his proactive and responsive leadership style, which has contributed significantly to the stability and development of the local government area. “We have observed your style of governance. You are very pragmatic, you don’t wait for things to go south before stepping in. This award is a gesture of our appreciation. We felt it was necessary to present it now rather than wait till year-end,” Mr. Esiet noted.
He further hinted at Wilmar’s readiness to strengthen its relationship with the council, stating, “We are open to a formidable partnership with the local government council to address any grey areas and to foster sustainable development.”
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of the award by the General Manager, Mr. Ananth Arumugam and the Chairman of the scholarship board of Wilmar, Prof. Arikpo, and the award of scholarships to 58 deserving Students of Akamkpa and Biase Local Government Areas respectively, a feat Wilmar has embarked upon for more than twelve years. The event, further redefined Hon. Akposi’s leadership at the grassroots, which underscores the growing recognition of his results-driven administration and his unwavering dedication to public service.
Other notable figures who graced the occasion were, His Royal Majesty, Ophot Agbor Ewa Ebani, the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa, Rt. Hon. Linus Bassey Etim, the member representing Akamkpa II in the Cross River State House of Assembly and a host of others.
