Mrs. Catherine Akpana Agba-Ajibike, an influential and formidable political force from the Ukwel-Obudu community in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State. She embodies the aspirations and dreams of her people, having been born into the politically active family of the late Chief Joseph Agaba Agba, a political giant of his era.
Chief J. A. Agba was a member of the Eastern House of Assembly before the Nigeria–Biafra War and worked tirelessly over the years to bring governance closer to the people of present-day Cross River State and the Ogoja Division, as it was then. He was also among the first twelve Commissioners appointed to serve under Lt. Col. U. J. Esuene when he became Governor of the defunct South Eastern State upon its creation.
With such a distinguished pedigree, a solid background that sets her apart, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of politics, Mrs. Agba-Ajibike is driven by a deep conviction to elevate the political landscape of her people to unprecedented heights.
Her commitment transcends rhetoric. She actively seeks opportunities to empower and uplift others, ensuring that the voices of her people, particularly women, are heard and adequately represented in the corridors of power. Armed with strategic vision and a genuine passion for progress, she works tirelessly to build a brighter future for her community, exemplifying true dedication to public service and grassroots development.
Her exceptional academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Calabar and a Master of Communication Arts from the University of Ibadan. These accomplishments, combined with an impressive professional career spanning both the private and public sectors, have consistently distinguished her as a leader and role model.
In the private sector, she rose through the ranks at Universal Business Machines Limited (Minolta) and later held executive positions at Joint Office Systems Limited and Patike Communications Limited. In public service, she has made significant contributions as Senior Special Assistant and Special Adviser to the Governor, as well as serving as a Member of the Governing Council of the University of Cross River State and a Member of the Governing Board of the Rural Electrification Agency under the Federal Ministry of Power.
As the visionary and trailblazing President of the Cross River Women Emancipation Initiative (CROWEI), her dynamic leadership catalyzed the establishment of women-focused structures across all 18 local government areas of the state. This initiative created widespread awareness of women’s rights, mobilized thousands of women into active political participation, and fostered empowerment, agency, and civic engagement.
Through the promotion of entrepreneurship and self-reliance, she laid a strong foundation for women’s economic independence. The establishment of the Obudu Women Network under her leadership further strengthened grassroots mobilization, drawing in thousands of women and inspiring them to actively participate in governance and socio-economic development within their communities. Her unwavering dedication has undeniably transformed the landscape for women in the state, empowering them to take charge of their destinies and contribute meaningfully to society.
Mrs. Agba-Ajibike has maintained a sustained interest in the politics of her community. She contested to represent Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives on the platform of the Social Democratic Mega Party (SDMP) in 2011, and later vied for the Chairmanship of Obudu Local Government Council in 2024 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
A loyal and committed party woman, she consistently deploys her energy and resources to ensure electoral success for her party. Beyond elections, she remains steadfast in supporting and strengthening the government of the day to ensure effective and people-centered governance.
Obudu is indeed fortunate to have her as a daughter. We celebrate and appreciate her invaluable contributions to growth, leadership, and community development.
By Linus Ibli Behakong
Tuesday, December 30, 2025
