Rep. Bassey Akiba: Championing community development through the bridge cooperative

Rep. Bassey Akiba, known for his commitment to transformative policies and community empowerment, has introduced the Bridge Cooperative, a groundbreaking initiative designed to boost the local economy and foster self-sufficiency in Calabar Municipality and Odukpani Federal Constituency.

Rep. Akiba currently serves as a Member of the House of Representatives for Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency. He is the Deputy Chairman of the Health Care Services Committee and a member of several key committees, including Public Accounts, FERMA, National Security and Intelligence, and Environment. His tenure has been marked by the introduction of numerous bills, sponsorship of several motions, and effective advocacy for his constituents.

The Bridge Cooperative: A Model of Local Empowerment

The Bridge Cooperative is an innovative scheme that emphasizes structured community-driven development. It is built on a robust, decentralized leadership structure that ensures active participation and local autonomy. Each cooperative within the wards of Calabar Municipality and Odukpani is led by an elected president, reflecting the scheme’s focus on internal leadership and community involvement. This approach empowers local communities, fostering a strong sense of responsibility and accountability.

The cooperative’s structure is designed for maximum inclusivity and impact:

• Calabar Municipality: 3,340 members across 334 units, with each unit comprising 10 members.
• Odukpani LGA: 1,600 members in 160 units, each with 10 members.

By prioritizing local empowerment and self-governance, the Bridge Cooperative aims to drive sustainable economic growth and improve living standards.

Beyond his legislative duties, Rep. Akiba is the founder of the Bassey Akiba Foundation (BAF), which drives programs and projects aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of his constituency. His inclusive approach ensures that the voices of the people are heard and their needs addressed.