[Profile] Engr. Joseph Utsu Liwhuliwhe Akebeye: A Technocrat Poised to Redefine Representation in Obudu


By Efa Sunday


In a political landscape often dominated by rhetoric over results, the emergence of Engr. Joseph Utsu Liwhuliwhe Akebeye as a contender for the Obudu State Constituency offers a refreshing departure from mediocrity toward competence, professionalism, and visionary leadership.



A distinguished civil engineer with an impressive blend of academic excellence and practical experience, Engr. Joseph Liwhuliwhe represents the archetype of the modern public servant, one whose grounding in science, infrastructure, and problem solving positions him uniquely to address the developmental challenges confronting Obudu.


A member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (MNSE), the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (MNICE), and a COREN registered engineer, his professional pedigree is not merely ornamental but demonstrative of years of discipline, technical mastery, and ethical responsibility. With a Master of Engineering degree and an ongoing PhD in Materials and Construction Engineering, his research focus on cement, concrete, and pozzolanic materials underscores a deep commitment to sustainable infrastructure development, a critical need for a constituency like Obudu.


Born into a family rooted in service and community values, Engr. Liwhuliwhe is the son of the late Reverend Cletus Liwhuliwhe Akebeye of Igwo community, Begiading Ward, and Mrs Anna Ugiangwuye Akebeye of Bebuabie, Ipong Ward. This heritage of moral discipline and social responsibility is evident in both his personal and professional life.


Beyond credentials, his leadership footprint speaks volumes. As General Secretary of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, Calabar Chapter, and the pioneer General Secretary of the proposed Nigerian Society of Engineers, Ikom Branch, he has demonstrated administrative competence, institutional foresight, and the ability to galvanize professionals across regions.



Perhaps most remarkable is his investment in human capital development. As CEO and Principal Mentor of the School of Mentorship for Naija Young Engineers, he has mentored and facilitated the professional advancement of over 80 engineers into the corporate cadres of NSE and NICE, and over 50 into COREN. Many of his mentees now occupy strategic positions across ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as leading construction firms. This legacy of empowerment reflects a leadership philosophy anchored on capacity building rather than patronage.


In the private sector, Engr. Liwhuliwhe is the Managing Director of JUSLI Engineering and Construction Company Limited and JUSLI Integrated Services, firms actively engaged in building and road construction, as well as the production and supply of construction materials. His hands-on involvement in projects across Lagos, Abuja, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River State gives him a panoramic understanding of Nigeria’s infrastructural realities and the policy gaps that must be addressed.


His professional journey includes stints with reputable construction giants such as Julius Berger, Raycon, Megalo, and Bourman Golf Arnold C4 Ltd, among others, further reinforcing his exposure to global best practices.


Engr. Akebeye’s foray into public service is not an opportunistic detour but a natural progression of a life defined by leadership and impact. During his postgraduate studies at the University of Cross River State, he served as President of the Postgraduate Students’ Government, leaving behind enduring legacies that continue to benefit students.


For the people of Obudu, the stakes have never been higher. The constituency, rich in human and natural resources, has long grappled with infrastructural deficits, youth unemployment, and the need for strategic representation that can translate potential into tangible development. History has shown that when leadership is reduced to mere political calculation, the cost is borne by the people.


Engr. Akebeye’s candidacy, therefore, presents a compelling alternative, one that prioritizes competence over convenience, vision over vanity, and service over self interest. His background in engineering equips him with a methodical approach to governance, where policies are not just promised but designed, implemented, and evaluated with precision.


At a time when voters are increasingly demanding accountability and results, Obudu stands at a crossroads. The choice is between recycling familiar patterns or embracing a future driven by expertise, integrity, and measurable impact.



Married and blessed with a daughter, Engr. Joseph Utsu Liwhuliwhe Akebeye embodies discipline, intellect, and a deep sense of responsibility. His candidacy is more than a political ambition; it is a call to elevate the standard of representation.


For Obudu, this may well be the moment to choose capacity over mediocrity and chart a new course toward sustainable development.

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