Hon. Mrs. Monica Ugi is a seasoned public servant, accomplished educationist, and an outstanding grassroots political mobilizer whose career has been defined by discipline, service, and an unwavering commitment to community development.
She hails from Bebuatsuan Village in Ipong Ward, Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State. Hon. Monica is happily married to Mr. Augustine Ugi, and their union is blessed with four children, reflecting her strong belief in family values and social responsibility.
Her passion for education was evident from an early age. She began her foundational education at St. Theresa Primary School, Ipong, where she distinguished herself in both academics and character formation. She proceeded to the prestigious Girls’ Secondary School, Obudu, where she successfully obtained her General Certificate Examination (GCE).
Driven by a lifelong quest for knowledge and self-improvement, she gained admission into the University of Calabar (UNICAL), where she earned a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in English Education. She further pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the same institution. Her thirst for professional excellence later took her to Benue State University, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counselling, significantly strengthening her leadership, mentoring, and human development skills.
Hon. Monica Ugi began her professional career in 1983 as a classroom teacher at St. Charles Primary School, Obudu, quickly gaining a reputation for her dedication, discipline, and nurturing approach to child development. Her early years in teaching laid a solid foundation for her leadership philosophy, one rooted in empathy, structure, and accountability. She later relocated to Calabar, continuing both her teaching career and academic advancement. Through years of exemplary service, professionalism, and administrative excellence, she rose steadily through the ranks, ultimately attaining the position of Principal. In 2018, after decades of meritorious service, she retired honorably, leaving a legacy of mentorship, institutional discipline, and a lasting positive impact on countless students and colleagues.
Her foray into politics was a natural extension of her passion for service and leadership. While still teaching, she began engaging with political leaders across Cross River State, earning respect for her organizational skills, grassroots influence, and integrity. In 2008, her leadership potential was recognized when the then Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Justin Ikor, nominated her to serve as Supervisor for Works and Public Utilities. In this role, she oversaw key infrastructure initiatives and contributed significantly to the improvement of public utilities, earning commendations that launched her into higher political responsibility.
A few years later, she was appointed by former Governor Senator Professor Ben Ayade to serve as a Commissioner in the Forestry Commission, where she worked to preserve and sustainably manage Cross River State’s rich forest resources. Recognizing her consistency, loyalty, and dedication, Governor Ayade later appointed her Special Adviser on Waterfront Infrastructure, contributing to policy direction and advisory roles focused on waterfront development, infrastructure planning, and environmental considerations across the state.
Beyond formal appointments, Hon. Monica Ugi has played critical roles in numerous political campaigns and strategic consultation teams at both local and state levels. Widely regarded as a natural-born mobilizer, she has led grassroots engagements, coordinated political structures, and strengthened party presence across communities. She is also a passionate advocate for women’s participation in politics, consistently championing their inclusion, empowerment, and visibility in leadership and decision-making processes. Through mentorship and advocacy, she has inspired many women to take active roles in governance and political organization.
Hon. Monica Ugi’s journey reflects a life of purposeful service, transitioning seamlessly from education to politics while maintaining integrity, competence, and grassroots relevance. Her contributions to education, infrastructure development, environmental preservation, and political mobilization have left an indelible mark on Obudu Local Government Area and Cross River State. She stands today as a symbol of dedicated leadership, women empowerment, and grassroots-driven development, and Obudu is proud to have a daughter like her.
