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BIG TALK WITH JOHN UPAN ODEY

A FRESH START… ONE PEOPLE, ONE CROSS RIVER

What does a different future look like for Cross River State?

On Big Talk, John Upan Odey, NDC Governorship Candidate for Cross River State, 2027, sits down for a candid conversation about the challenges facing the state, the opportunities that remain untapped, and the kind of leadership he says Cross River needs.

From jobs and enterprise to agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, security, tourism and accountable governance, the conversation examines how Cross River can move from potential to measurable prosperity.

Odey brings into the conversation a recurring position in his public record: that development should be approached with data, clear targets, enterprise and measurable results, rather than simply announcing projects. His earlier public statements have similarly emphasized strengthening agriculture and value chains, supporting local businesses, developing tourism and improving government monitoring.

As the 2027 governorship race takes shape, the Big Talk interview provides an opportunity to hear directly from Odey about his vision and the issues he says matter most to Cross Riverians.

John Upan Odey Named Foundation Fellow of ICAP

Abuja | September 23, 2026

John Upan Odey has been named a Foundation Fellow of the Institute of Competition and Antitrust Practitioners (ICAP) at the institute’s formal unveiling and induction ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

The recognition places Odey among ICAP’s pioneer fellows as the institute begins its work of advancing professional standards, knowledge and ethical practice in competition and antitrust matters in Nigeria.

Connecting with Cross River’s Youth

A moment of connection with young Cross Riverians, sharing conversations, experiences and perspectives about the future of their state.

For John Upan Odey, engaging with young people means listening to their aspirations, understanding their concerns and recognising the energy, talent and ideas they bring to Cross River’s future.

The future of Cross River belongs to all of us.

Engagement with Ward Leaders

NDC Cross River Deputy Governor Candidate, Dr. Stella Charles Archibong engages with ward leaders in a constructive dialogue focused on strengthening grassroots connections, listening to local perspectives and deepening understanding of the priorities of communities across Cross River.

The engagement reflects the importance of working closely with people at the grassroots in building a more inclusive and responsive approach to governance.

A Meeting of Purpose

John Upan Odey joined H.E. Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, and governorship candidates from across Nigeria at the NDC Governorship Candidates Forum in Abuja.

It was an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas and strengthen a shared commitment to a new direction for Nigeria and Cross River State.

NDC Cross River Listening Tour

The NDC Cross River Listening tour brings the party closer to the grassroots, creating opportunities to engage directly with ward members across the state.

Through these conversations, ward members share their experiences, concerns, and aspirations, helping to ensure that the voices of communities remain central to the conversation about Cross River’s future.

Odey- Archibong is invested in and committed to listening. Engaging and Building One people- One Cross River Together.