The traditional rulers have also urged the Head of State to seek re-election during the 2025 presidential.
The decisions emerged at the end of the elective General Assembly of the South West Chiefs Conference held in Limbe in the South West Region last Saturday February 22, 2025. The Prime Minister, Head of Government, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, was represented at the gathering by the Minister, Director of Cabinet at the Prime Minister’s office, Balungeli Confiance Ebune. In a motion, the South West chiefs expressed gratitude for the trust and confidence that Biya has shown to the region, particularly through the appointment of one of their own, Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute, to the position of Prime Minister.
They highlighted the ongoing efforts to restore peace, such as the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development of the North West and South West regions, and called for the President to flag off his campaign in the South West. The Prime Minister’s envoy, Balungeli Confiance Ebune, conveyed the PM’s message of peace, love, and unity, acknowledging the role of chiefs as ambassadors for peace and custodians of tradition. He also emphasized the progress made in the English-speaking regions during the crisis, pointing to initiatives like the Major National Dialogue and the establishment of structures such as the National School of Local Administration, NASLA and disarmament centers.
In terms of rebuilding the crisis-affected regions, the envoy highlighted the results of the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development, which has led to the rehabilitation of key infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, markets, and public utilities destroyed during the conflict. He also mentioned the potential finalization of the Limbe Deep Seaport project with ongoing funding from the Islamic Development Bank. The assembly also saw the election of a new leadership for the Southwest Chiefs Conference, SWECC. His Royal Majesty, Chief Dr. Mokube of Bafaka Balue, was elected President, marking a significant moment for the Balue people of Ndian Division. Chief Ekpe Inyang was elected as Vice President, continuing the rotational leadership model of SWECC.
The chiefs also expressed their gratitude to the outgoing president, Chief Oben Ofonde of Manyu, for his leadership. Chief Dr. Mokube, in his address, emphasized the role of SWECC as the voice of the South West people and its importance in bridging the government and the population. He expressed his commitment to working with his peers to enhance the association’s respect and dignity.
