February 9, 2026
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, Esq., on Monday received members of the Cross River State Scholarship Board on a courtesy visit to his office at the Ministry of Education headquarters, Calabar.
The delegation was led by the Chairman of the Board, Professor Paul Itari, who briefed the Commissioner on the mandate of the Board, its current operational challenges, and key requirements needed to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness. Professor Itari appealed to the Commissioner to use his good office to support and facilitate the strengthening of the Board in line with its responsibilities to students across the state.
In his response, Senator Professor Odey commended the Scholarship Board for its commitment to service and its continued efforts toward supporting educational development in Cross River State. He advised the Board to formally outline its needs and challenges in a comprehensive memo, assuring members that such a submission would be promptly forwarded to His Excellency, Senator Apostle (Prince) Dr. Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, for consideration and necessary approval.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Governor’s unwavering commitment to the growth and transformation of the education sector, noting that the present administration places high priority on policies and interventions that promote access, equity, and quality education for all.
The courtesy visit concluded with words of appreciation from the Chairman, Professor Paul Itari, who thanked the Commissioner for his fatherly guidance, constructive advice, and continued support to the Board.
