Odobo Community, Okobo.

Last week, I left my comfort zone together with my Christian family with the aim to extend an invitation to commemorate Jesus' death, which took place on April 12th, 2025. During my one week stay in Obodo community, I captured moments of our outreach efforts, but beyond the photographs, I observed some things in this community that needs attention, and also got to found some fortune and amazing spot.

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Though this community may not boasts tourist attractions for most people, it's a place that needs support and development. During my visit, I noticed several challenges that require attention and assistance. Despite these difficulties, our mission brought hope and joy to the people of Odobo community, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share their story, both sad and happy, through this contest organised by @mohammadfaisal.

^{Hunting is their primary means of survival}

Let me start with their means of survival. During my stay in Odobo community, I observed that every morning, males of all ages would pass by our dormitory, armed with guns, heading into the forest to hunt bush animals. One day, I stopped one of them as asked why they're going to the forest every morning. He said "Hunting is our primary means of survival.

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I was shocked by the uncertainty of their livelihood, wondering how they would cope if they failed to catch animals for several days. As for the women, processing of palmoil and farming is their primary source of income. The women's source of income is certain, but talking about hunting as mean of survival? No, job opportunity should be brought here, in Odobo community for all the youths.

^{Firewood is their primary source of fire for cooking}

The community's primary source of fire for cooking is firewood, which they gather from the forest. During my one week stay, I didn't come across any kerosene or gas stations. The residents rely heavily on firewood collection to meet their cooking needs. Although firewood is available in nearby farms, their tradition prohibits collecting it without the king's declaration.

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During my visit, I was able to join them during the designated period, but the trek was over an hour round trip. Not as if the people in Odobo doesn't have the money to purchase a gas cylinder, the problem is that, they don't have any gas station. So, I'm sure developing a new gas station in this community is something to look into, it'll ease the burden and stress of fending for firewood.

^{Unfunctional borehole water supply.}

Odobo community were blessed with a free borehole water supply, but it later spoiled since it's public use. Despite being a free resource, community members had abandoned it, due to it current state. Only those who have money dugged their own personal borehole for their families, not for community. I was wondering and feeling pity for those who can't afford this borehole for themselves.

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I met an elderly woman that day, and I inquired how they get free water, since the one they had has spoiled. I was informed that they fetch water from a nearby village using bicycles. Given water's essential nature, I believe the community deserves a functional water supply system, especially for those who don't have money to get their private borehole water supply.

^{Lack of electricity}

Fourthly, the village's electricity infrastructure is in a state of disrepair. I observed that almost all the transformers were rusted, and the high and low-tension wires were covered in leaves and debris. Upon inquiry, the villagers informed me that they haven't had electricity in years and have grown accustomed to living without it.

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The lack of electricity severely hampers business activities and drives up costs, as business owners rely on fuel generators, which are expensive. With fuel priced at 1,400 naira approximately 6.7 steem per liter, the financial burden is significant. Installing new transformers would likely revitalize the community, making Odobo a better place by enabling businesses to operate more efficiently and reducing costs.

^{A unique palmfruit species}

During my visit to Odobo community, I came across a unique palm fruit species that caught my attention. Unlike the tall palm trees common in my hometown of Uyo, these palm trees were notably short and small, yet they were productive and yielded fruit. This was my first encounter with this particular species, and I was intrigued by its characteristics.

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What's more, the villagers informed me that this palm fruit variety is not only sweet but also highly productive, with a single bunch capable of producing a substantial amount of palm oil. The potential uses for this palm fruit are vast, particularly in traditional cooking, such as preparing banga soup or stew. The community is indeed fortunate to have this resource, and it's clear that they value it greatly.

^{Mbidu hill}

One notable landmark in Odobo community is the "Mbidu hill", a unique geological feature that stands out in the landscape. From a distance, the hill appears to touch the sky, but upon closer inspection, its true proportions become apparent. I was struck by the natural beauty of this site and spent some time admiring the scenery.

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Although I would have loved to explore the hill further, including walking through it, my schedule dictated that I move on. I did, however, manage to capture a brief video of this remarkable spot, which showcases its natural charm. The hill is clearly a treasured part of the community's landscape. Watch it yourself....