Princewill Ogban, Canadian-based entrepreneur and social worker
By Frank Ulom
An aspirant for the Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections, Princewill Ogban, has outlined a broad reform agenda anchored on diaspora experience, social welfare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.
Ogban, who hails from Etana village in Erei North, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State, presented his vision during an interview with some journalists on Tuesday in Calabar, positioning himself as a candidate with both local roots and international exposure.
A graduate of Geography and Regional Planning from the University of Calabar (UNICAL), he began his political journey as a student union leader before contesting for councillorship in 2003. After relocating to Canada in 2006, he built a career in social work, rising to the rank of director within the Federal Government of Canada. He also holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work and is currently pursuing a PhD in Social Work.
Ogban said his professional experience in governance, combined with entrepreneurial ventures in real estate and renewable energy, places him in a strong position to deliver effective representation.
“I have worked at different levels of government and understand how systems function. I believe I can bring that experience to serve my people better,” he said.
Manifesto and Policy Direction
Central to Ogban’s manifesto is a commitment to education, economic empowerment, and infrastructure development. He criticised the current representation in the constituency, arguing that key areas such as scholarships and individual empowerment have been neglected.
Drawing from his personal experience of financial hardship after losing his father during university, Ogban pledged to introduce scholarship schemes for constituents to study abroad.
“I want people from my constituency to have the same opportunity I had. Exposure changes lives,” he stated.
He also outlined plans to empower youths and transport operators through the provision of minibuses, tricycles, and business support schemes, including loan structures that allow beneficiaries to repay partially while extending support to others.
On infrastructure, Ogban promised investments in boreholes, solar-powered street lighting, rural electrification, and road development, noting that these are critical to improving living standards.
Focus on Agriculture and Local Economy
Addressing concerns over the dominance of non-indigenous players in local agricultural enterprises, Ogban proposed grant and low-interest loan schemes to support indigenous farmers and entrepreneurs.
He further highlighted the need for improved storage systems to reduce post-harvest losses, pledging collaboration with state and federal agricultural agencies.
“Biase has vast agricultural potential, but our people remain labourers. We must change that by supporting ownership and capacity building,” he said.
Legislative Agenda
Beyond constituency projects, Ogban said he intends to pursue legislative reforms targeting poverty reduction, mental health, and resource control.
He revealed plans to sponsor bills on mental health rehabilitation, citing his academic research and professional background in social work. He also advocated policies that would enable states to benefit more directly from mineral resources, particularly lithium deposits in Cross River.
“We must ensure that our people benefit from the resources in their land. That requires deliberate legislative action,” he added.
Relationship with Governor Otu
Ogban emphasised the importance of collaboration with the Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, describing himself as a “team player” who values strategic partnerships.
He noted that effective representation would require strong alignment with the state government to attract development projects, including financial institutions and infrastructure.
“I believe in building relationships. Working closely with the governor will help us bring more development to our constituency,” he said.
He also commended ongoing road projects in Biase approved by the governor, describing them as a positive step towards addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges.
Humanitarian Record
Ogban pointed to his long-standing humanitarian efforts as evidence of his commitment to grassroots development. He disclosed that for over 15 years, he has supported widows in his community, and for the past seven years, has provided financial assistance to women annually during Christmas.
“If I can do this as a private citizen, I will scale it up significantly if given the mandate,” he said.
Commitment to Accountability
Describing himself as “Talk and Do,” Ogban assured constituents of his commitment to transparency and performance, adding that he welcomes scrutiny from the media and the public.
“I am comfortable with evaluation. If there are gaps, I will address them. Leadership must be accountable,” he stated.
Balancing Business and Public Service
On concerns about managing his business interests alongside public office, Ogban explained that his enterprises are structured with management teams, allowing him to focus on legislative duties if elected.
He also disclosed plans to use his business networks to expose constituents to international trade opportunities, particularly in China, with a view to building a new class of entrepreneurs in the constituency.
“I want to mentor young people, take them into global markets, and help them build sustainable businesses,” he said.
Ogban promised the people of Akamkpa/Biase a representation they desire.
