…as Etubom Archibong pledges service to Efik Nation
By Our Reporter
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Published on June 25, 2026
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3 min read
The Effanga Nsa palace of the Obong of Calabar in the Cross River State capital was agog, weekend, as the Efik people from all walks of life celebrated the capping and induction of the 72 years old Etubom (Justice) Charles Effanga Archibong into the Etubom Traditional Council of the Efik Kingdom as the Etubom of the Effanga Offiong Royal House.
The colourful ceremony attracted prominent sons and daughters of Efik extraction, traditional rulers, political leaders and other dignitaries from within and outside Cross River State.
Performing the induction, the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, charged the newly installed Etubom to lead the Effanga Offiong Royal House with the fear of God, stressing the need for unity, integrity and service to the Efik nation.
The monarch urged the newly capped Effanga Offiong Royal House Leader to uphold the rich cultural values and traditions of the Efik people while promoting peace and harmony within the royal house and the wider community.
Responding after his induction, Etubom Charles Archibong expressed gratitude to the Obong of Calabar, members of the Etubom Traditional Council and the Effanga Offiong Royal House for the confidence reposed in him.
He pledged to discharge his responsibilities with humility, fairness and dedication, promising to work for the unity, progress and preservation of the customs and traditions of the Efik people.
Archibong, who is succeeding late Etubom Inyang George Duke Henshaw, said the honour placed upon him was both a privilege and a solemn responsibility, adding that he would strive to justify the confidence bestowed on him through selfless service.
Several prominent Efik sons who attended the ceremony described the induction as a fitting recognition of Archibong’s years of service, integrity and contributions to society.
In a chat, the Special Adviser to Gov Bassey Otu on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Sir Francis Edet expressed confidence in Etubom Archibong’s ability to provide purposeful leadership for the Effanga Offiong Royal House and contribute meaningfully to the growth and stability of the Efik traditional institution.
The event featured traditional dances and Ekpe displays, which underscores the enduring significance of the Efik traditional institution and its role in preserving the heritage of the people.
Etubom (Justice) Charles Effanga Archibong (rtd), born on August 31, 1953, schooled in England and later graduated from University of Nigeria Nsukka.
The former pioneer elected Chairman of Calabar South local government council had spent years practicing law in Lagos State before being elevated to the Bench of the Federal High Court of Nigeria.
Our reporter further learnt that he served the country in that capacity for almost eleven years before his retirement some years ago.
On his return to his hometown, Calabar, PillarToday gathered, the leaders of Effanga Offiong Royal House unanimously agreed to put forward the retired Judge as the head of the House, hence the induction into the highest traditional decision making body of the Efik kingdom.
The newly capped Traditional Leader, who married his heartthrob, Juliet Archibong in 1980, is blessed with three lovely sons -Asibong, Effanga and Offiong who are also doing well in their respective endeavours.
