HIS EMINENCE, OBONG OF CALABAR RECEIVES GOVERNORS’ SPOUSES FORUM IN GRAND ROYAL CEREMONY
✓ Visit Symbolises Cultural Diplomacy, Unity, and National Harmony at the Efik Throne.
By Racheal Bassey (Ediye Eyen Efik) | Additional Report by Amawu, Cletus Albert Amawu.
CALABAR — His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, the Treaty King of the Efik Kingdom and Natural Ruler of the Efik people, on Friday, graciously received members of the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF), who paid a courtesy visit to the Royal Palace in Calabar.
The high-powered delegation, led by Her Excellency, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, Wife of the Governor of Cross River State and Chairperson of the Forum, included the First Lady of Kwara State, Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, among others. The visit, steeped in cultural significance, underscored the spirit of unity, respect for traditional authority, and the enduring prestige of the ancient Efik throne.
The Obong of Calabar, in his characteristic grace and warmth, welcomed the distinguished guests amidst the splendour of Efik royal traditions. The ceremony, marked by elegance, cultural displays, and deep reverence for heritage, highlighted the seamless intersection of governance, tradition, and diplomacy.
As a mark of friendship and mutual respect, the visiting First Ladies were presented with exquisitely handcrafted palace souvenirs, emblematic of the Efik Kingdom’s artistry and hospitality. In turn, the delegation conveyed their collective admiration for the Obong’s leadership and the historic role of the Efik monarchy in promoting peace, cultural identity, and national cohesion.
His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, reaffirmed his commitment to the preservation of Nigeria’s traditional values while fostering unity across regions and generations. The Obong, revered as a custodian of one of Africa’s most celebrated cultural legacies, remains a towering symbol of dignity, wisdom, and continuity.
The visit by the Governors’ Spouses Forum, observers noted, not only strengthened the bonds between traditional institutions and modern governance but also reinforced the role of the Efik Kingdom as a bridge between Nigeria’s illustrious past and its progressive future.
As the event drew to a close, the royal courtyard echoed with traditional music and chants, reflecting the pride of a people whose monarchy continues to command reverence and respect across the nation.
