The Cross River State Chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE) has inaugurated Engr. George Ndifon Abang, Ph.D as its new State Chairman during a ceremony held at UG Wills Hotel, Calabar on Saturday.
In his Inaugural address, Dr. Abang expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing safety engineering standards across the state. He described the inauguration as “not merely a ceremony of transition, but a renewed call to action,” emphasizing the critical role of safety engineers in protecting lives, preserving assets, and promoting sustainable development.
Highlighting the Chapter’s priorities, he outlined plans to strengthen safety culture in workplaces and public spaces, enhance professional competencies through training and research, foster collaboration with government and industry, and position NISafetyE as a leading safety advisory body in the state.
Engr. Abang called on all members to unite, contribute their expertise, and work together toward a future where safety is integral to development and accident rates are significantly reduced.
Speaking earlier, the National Chairman and Chairman of the occasion, Engr. Seun Faluyi, expressed delight at joining the Chapter for its Annual General Meeting, describing it as a testament to the strength and growth of NISafetyE nationwide. He noted that the inauguration of the second Chairman of the Cross River Chapter reflects true continuity and commended the pioneer Chairman, Engr. Sir Dr. Paul Bepeh, for the solid foundation he laid. He also emphasized the NSE succession model, where outgoing Chairmen remain on the Executive Committee to provide guidance and stability, an approach he encouraged the Chapter to maintain.
Engr. Faluyi urged members of the Cross River Chapter to take up more active roles at the national level, contributing to committees, policies, and advocacy efforts that shape the future of safety engineering in Nigeria. He warmly welcomed new members, congratulated newly inducted Fellows, and reminded them that Fellowship is both an honour and a call to deeper service. He concluded by congratulating the new Chairman and the entire Chapter, praising Cross River’s hospitality and reaffirming the institution’s collective commitment to building a safer Nigeria.
In his welcome address, the outgoing Chairman, Engr. (Sir) Paul Bepeh, Ph.D, expressed deep gratitude as he formally handed over the leadership of the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE), Cross River State Chapter. Reflecting on his two-year tenure, he highlighted the Institution’s achievements, including strengthened governance, expanded programmes, improved safety practices, and effective advocacy campaigns across Calabar and beyond. He acknowledged the support of his executive team, mentors, family, and members, noting that their commitment turned policies into practical success.
He confidently passed the baton to Engr. Dr. George Abang, praising his integrity, experience, and passion for service. Dr. Bepeh recounted the Chapter’s journey since its inception on 14th October 2023, noting milestones such as technical visits to industries, safety awareness campaigns, recognition of outstanding safety ambassadors, and scholarships for students. He concluded by pledging continued support for the Institution and urging members to extend the same cooperation and goodwill to the new Chairman.
In their goodwill messages, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Chief Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, represented by Chief Ekpenyong Akiba, Esq, Commissioner for Works, Pius Ankpo, and the Special Adviser on Projects and Programmes Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Raphael Murphy, commended the accomplishments of the outgoing State Chairman and pledged support for the new leadership in advancing safety initiatives.
The event featured a keynote lecture by Prof. Engr. Richard Elidad-Esien Antigha, JP, on Safety and Sustainable Development in an AI World, presentation of awards to distinguished Nigerians-including Prof. Francisca Bassey, Oden Ewa, Chief Dr. Ekpenyong Akiba, and Mr. Raphael Murphy, and the induction of new corporate, associate, graduate, and fellow members of the Institute by the National Chairman, Engr. Seun Faluyi.
Others inaugurated as part of the Second Executive Committee by the National Chairman were Engr. Dr. Gertrude Fischer as Vice Chairman, Engr. Ikeji Ekene as General Secretary, Engr. Ujong Omini as Assistant Secretary, and Engr. Edward Akpan and Engr. Joshua Madaki as Financial and Technical Secretaries, respectively. Also included were Obonganwan Ali as Assistant Technical Secretary, Engr. Francis Okon as Treasurer, and Engr. Mimika Effiom as Publicity Secretary.
