The Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Gender Mainstreaming led by Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke, on Monday, March 17, 2025 hosted the first-ever Cross River State Men’s Summit at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar.
The historic event brought together men’s groups, security agencies such as Army, Navy, Air force, Immigration, FRSC, Police, Royal Rangers, Boys Scout, Lads Brigade.
Prominent personalities in person of Statistician General, Chairman CAN, Driver Association among others, and key stakeholders, including Dr. Bong, Vice Chairman of the State Planning Commission; the Obong of Calabar; the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command; the CEO of Hogis Group of Companies; top government functionaries, and members of civil society.
The summit was officially opened by the Special Assistant on Gender Mainstreaming, Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke, who emphasized her motivation for initiating the event. She stated that the summit was designed to provide a safe platform for men to express themselves, grow, and actively contribute to societal progress.
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She acknowledged exemplary leadership in the state, particularly recognizing His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, for his dedication to the development of Cross River State, and Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Acting Governor, for seamlessly stepping in to ensure continuity in governance.
The keynote speech was delivered by Apostle Dr. Paul Simon, who emphasized the need for men to live a life of purpose and express their potential through positive actions. He urged men to take up their roles as pillars of society and lead with integrity, responsibility, and vision.
The highlight of the event was an interactive panel discussion moderated by Dr. Macfarlane Zejah, featuring a distinguished lineup of panelists, including:
Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba – Special Adviser on General Duties, Comrade Dan Obo – Special Adviser on Youth Mobilization, Mr. Arikpo Williams,
Mr. Chibuzor Agomouh, Challex D Boss and Osika Etim – Speaker, Children’s Parliament. The panelists engaged in robust discussions on leadership, mentorship, and the role of men in gender equality and societal development.
A major highlight of the Men’s summit was the presentation of awards to outstanding men who have made significant contributions to leadership, innovation, governance, and social impact. The honorees included:
Man of the Year Award – His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu (Governor of Cross River State)
Lifetime Achievement Award – Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V (Obong of Calabar)
Innovation and Excellence Award – Dr. Ikechukwu Ukweh (CEO, Hogis Group)
Gender Equality Award – Arikpo Williams
Global Impact Award – Challex D Boss
Male Artiste of the Year Award – Upper X Ekpenyong
Mentor of the Year Award – Daniel Pemida
Support in Governance Award – Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba
Young Achiever Award – Oja Arikpo Johnson
Humanitarian Award – Uwem Ekpe
The summit concluded with a session of fun and games, allowing attendees to interact, network, and unwind in a relaxed atmosphere which includes ludo art sip and Whot game.
The Cross River State Men’s Summit marked the beginning of a new era in male engagement and empowerment within the state. The event successfully provided men with a platform for self-expression, leadership development, and collaboration in building a more inclusive society.
The Office of the Special Assistant on Gender Mainstreaming looks forward to making this summit an annual gathering that continues to inspire and empower men in Cross River State and beyond.
