The Cross River State House of Assembly has achieved significant legislative milestones under the 10th Assembly, passing over 30 bills while maintaining an unbroken record of retaining all its members since its inauguration three years ago. Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, made this known during a thanksgiving service held at the Assembly Chapel in Calabar on Monday to commemorate the third anniversary of the 10th Assembly.
Speaker Attributes Success to Divine Grace
Ayambem credited the Assembly's achievements and stability to divine grace, expressing gratitude to God for preserving the lives of all 25 lawmakers since the legislature was inaugurated on June 13, 2023. He noted that the Assembly had enjoyed God's protection and guidance despite challenges encountered during its legislative duties. The Speaker particularly thanked God for what he described as a covenant of "no loss of any member" over the past three years.
"We have every reason to thank God. Since the inauguration of the 10th Assembly, God has remained faithful to us. We have not lost any member, and He has continued to grant us wisdom, strength and unity in the discharge of our responsibilities," Ayambem said.
Commendation for Members and Staff
The Speaker commended members of the Assembly for their cooperation and commitment, describing the relationship among lawmakers as a key factor behind the successes recorded by the legislature. He praised the Clerk of the House, Barr. Catherine Ubi, as well as the management and staff of the Assembly for their dedication and support in ensuring smooth legislative operations.
Ayambem stated that the 10th Assembly has distinguished itself among state legislatures across the country through its legislative output and commitment to good governance. "The Tenth Assembly has been adjudged one of the best legislatures in the country, with over 30 bills passed and assented to, among other numerous legislative achievements, making it a model for other states," he added.
Commitment to People-Oriented Laws
The Speaker reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to enacting people-oriented laws and policies in line with the "People First" governance agenda of Governor Bassey Otu.
Sermon on the Power of Gratitude
Earlier, a sermon titled 'The Power of Gratitude,' drawn from 1 Thessalonians 5:18, was delivered by former Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Fr. Bob Etta. He said thanksgiving remains an acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and faithfulness, noting that gratitude strengthens faith, brings joy and enables believers to align with God's will irrespective of circumstances. "Giving thanks is not dependent on circumstances. Thanksgiving is an act of faith that acknowledges God's goodness and sovereignty in all situations," Etta said.
Reflections from Lawmakers
The member representing Yala II State Constituency and Pastor of the Assembly Chapel, Hon. Martins Achadu, said the thanksgiving service was organised to appreciate God for His protection, faithfulness and guidance since the inauguration of the Assembly three years ago. Achadu noted that the event provided lawmakers and staff an opportunity to reflect on the journey so far and renew their commitment to service.
The thanksgiving service attracted members of the Assembly Service Commission, management and staff of the legislature, family members, associates, religious leaders and other dignitaries. The event featured worship sessions, Bible readings, choir ministrations, prayers for the nation and Cross River State, as well as the rededication of the 10th Assembly to God. Several lawmakers who shared testimonies during the service reflected on the Assembly's three-year journey, thanking God for preserving their lives, granting them good health and providing wisdom to navigate the challenges of legislative service.
