Detailing News

The Nigerian Senate has constituted an ad hoc committee to investigate all contracts awarded for the rehabilitation of the four moribund refineries in the country. The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibirin, who presided over the plenary set up the committee after Senator Sunday Karimi representing Kogi West moved a motion to investigate the turnaround maintenance projects of Nigerian refineries to forestall waste of public resources. The committee which will be chaired by Sen. Isah Jibrin (Echocho), named Senator Eteng Williams, Chairman Senate Committee on Petroleum Upstream as a member. Other members of the Ad hoc committee including chairmen of the committees on Petroleum Resources (Downstream and Gas), Finance, Appropriation, and Public Accounts have been given four weeks to submit the report. The ad hoc committee is charged with the responsibility to interrogate the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Nigeria

ABUJA – In a demonstration of unwavering commitment to the welfare and safety of its citizens, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong's has taken decisive steps to ensure timely treatment of gunshot victims in the country. Senator Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South had passionately raised this matter during a session in the Senate. The motion was in response to the unfortunate incident of 26th September 2023, where Ms Greatness Olorunfemi was attacked and ejected from a moving vehicle by armed robbers, subsequently denied timely medical care at Maitama General Hospital due to the unavailability of a police report. Prompted by this distressing incident, Senator Ekpenyong called upon the Nigerian Police Force and the Federal Ministry of Health to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to Miss Olorunfemi's tragic demise. The Nigeria Police Force in response to the Senate's call for action has issued a memorandum from Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Pol

The Youth-friendly Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, declared open the Cross River State Agricultural Youth Summit on Thursday, 26th October, 2023, with the theme: "Back to Land". In his opening remarks presented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Odum-Ijom Ukam, Rt. Hon Odey commended the leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River State Chapter for their visionary strides in empowering the youth of the state.  Odey, who opined that Cross River State presents a plethora of opportunities within various agricultural value chains, including rice, cassava, fisheries, poultry and palms among others, said the Prince Bassey Otu-led state government is committed to igniting a passionate drive for agricultural innovation and sustainability among the vibrant youth population in the State. The Deputy Governor said the restructuring of the Ministry of Agriculture into two specialized entities - Ministry of Livestock, Aqua

In the ever-evolving world of music, the spotlight is not always in mainstream genres. Gospel music, with its spiritual and uplifting messages, has gained a devoted following over the years.  In recent times, a new wave of talent has emerged, and among them, Minister Julius Edem is making a significant impact. This emerging gospel artist is not only captivating audiences with his soul-stirring melodies and powerful lyrics but has also become beacons of hope in an often chaotic world.  His music transcends boundaries and offers solace to those seeking inspiration and faith. The Minister who is also a member of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries has produced over seven gospel musics, ranging from Congratulations, You are God, You Love Me, amongst others. His ability to blend contemporary sounds with traditional gospel elements has struck a chord with diverse audiences.  Edem's music resonates with themes of hope, love, and spirituality, providing a refreshing perspective on

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof.  Florence Banku Obi, has commended Amnesty International (AI) for opting to establish a Human Rights Clinic in the institution. Prof. Obi made the commendation in her office when she received a delegation of Amnesty International (AI) Abuja, led by its Director Mr. Isa Sanusi. She said Amnesty International has done creditably well in rendering selfless services to society through its advocacy for gender equality, good governance, social well-being and justice among human players in the society, adding that they have put their lives in danger to achieve their core mandate.   While Applauding AI for recognizing the effort of the University Management towards social justice among many, she commended them for the choice of choosing to establish the Human Rights Clinic at the University of Calabar, stressing that the gesture would help in aiding the Institution in the fight against gender inequality. "We are happy that you came t

Yesterday, students of the University of Calabar took to the streets in celebration of their Final Year examination, what they call 'Signing or Autograph Day'. A euphoric moment that had many recount the hurdles in pursuit of educational degree(s) and the resilience to finish strong, through and through. Philomena Asibe, a female minibus driver in Calabar and a student of the University of Calabar, Department of Social Works had her fellow minibus drivers( both male and female), sign on her T-shirt as the occasion warrants. Stunned at what seemed a joke yet became a reality and despite the stereotypical name given to minibus drivers as 'Agberos', Philomena Asibe changed the narrative herself, and against the present-day Nigerian Student's practice, hers became an inspiration to many. Reacting, Philomena Asibe promised to keep the celebration ongoing by conveying passengers to their diverse destinations free of charge as her way of giving back to the society that liv

Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation,  Dr. Betta Edu says the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu is giving young Nigerians productive opportunities with pioneering innovative ideas through different startup initiatives.  Edu who was joined by the European Union and representatives of 48 other countries in Hague,  the Netherlands capital, made this known during her opening remarks in an event to discuss disturbing migration issues involving young people in Africa and the world. Co-hosted by Nigeria and the Netherlands, the Minister was leading the Nigerian delegation to the Thematic Meeting of the Rabat Process On Migration, Youth, And Development taking place in the Netherlands capital. Dr.  Edu noted that exploring the connection between migration, youth, and development was important as the youths between ages 15 and 25 years, who make up 16% of the world's population are a growing mobile demographic that could play a significant role in fostering positi

The Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria Cross River State Command Patriot (Dr) Dominic Okweche Odey has performed the official decoration of the  Commissioner, Ministry of Youth Development Cross River State, Barr. Odum Ijom Ukam as the Chairman of the Cross River State Peace Corps Advisory Council.  This pivotal event formally marks the beginning of partnerships between Peace Corps Command and the Ministry of Youth Development in the State.  The ceremony which was held inside the Conference room of the Ministry of Youth Development, was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary, top management staff of the ministry, and Peace Corps Council Members. State Commandant, in his capacity, noted that the youth ministry is a Peace Corps Constituency and presented the customized Congratulatory Card with a Peace Corps medal, signifying the weight of the responsibilities the Commissioner now bears as Chairman of the Advisory Council. The Commissioner resplendent in his decorations adorned with Peace

The Senate has begun the process of resuscitating the moribund $1 billion Kaztec Engineering Limited’s oil and gas fabrication yard at Snake Island, Ilashe, Lagos State. The move is part of the upper legislative chamber’s commitment to investigating the reasons behind the project’s shutdown to seek solutions for reviving the facility to revitalise the Nigerian economy. The Senate Committee on Petroleum (Upstream), led by its Chairman, Senator Eteng Williams, yesterday embarked on an oversight visit to the Kaztec fabrication yard to ascertain the level of degradation suffered by the facility since its eight years of inactivity owing to a force majeure declared on it in 2015 by Addax Petroleum. Accompanied by eight other members of the committee, Williams assured that the Senate would ensure that the company gets justice and the facility revived. The Antan project, estimated to cost about $1 billion to complete, being built by Kaztec Engineering, started in 2012 and was planned for the d

The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has recovered funds held by the consultant for several months. The National Program Manager of N-Power, Mr Akindele, made this known following the meeting held with representatives of the N-Power beneficiaries.  “The good news is that the funds have been recovered yesterday and you will be getting your money soon. Payment for N-Power Beneficiaries Batch C who have been owed for eight months will begin soon” he said The National Program Manager revealed that the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian affairs and Poverty Alleviation Dr Betta Edu, have been working round the clock to arrest irregularities within the Program and other social investment programmes. “These irregularities have made the common man to lose faith in the ability of Government to provide social safety cover for its population but Dr Betta Edu is engaging all necessary steps to resolve these issues and deliver the Renewed Hope Mandate of President Bo

By Sylvia Okoi Reaffirming the Ministry of Environment mandate in restoring the state's 'clean and green ' status, the Cross River State Commissioner for Environment Hon. Moses Osogi has expressed deep concerns over the high rate of environmental decadence in the state capital. Speaking to newsmen at Abuja at the wrap up of  his working visit to cluster MDA'S, Commissioner Osogi expressed optimism  that  his working visit to Abuja would generate enabling platform to tackle Environmental menace. Disclosing the reason behind the visit,  the Commissioner for Environment revealed that he was committed to securing a habitable environment free of nauisance, he maintained that upon his interface with relavant stakeholders in the environment sector, assurances were given to his ministry and fruits of collaborations would soon be dividend  with the ultimate goal of ensuring that  a healthier Environment is obtainable in Cross River State. Stressing the need to actualize a safer

The appointment of Ola Olukoyede by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as executive chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has generated ripples.  The president yesterday appointed Olukoyede to serve as executive chairman of the EFCC for a renewable term of four years in the first instance, pending Senate confirmation.  Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement, explained that Olukoyede’s appointment followed the resignation of the suspended executive chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa.  He said the president also approved the appointment of Muhammad Hassan Hammajoda to serve as the Secretary of the EFCC for a renewable term of five years in the first instance, pending Senate confirmation.  However, questions have been raised over the legality or otherwise of Olukoyede’s appointment as chairman of the commission, specifically regarding Section 2 (3) of the EFCC Act 2004 which stipulates that a chairman “Must be a serving or retired member of any government s

I got a call from an anonymous caller reporting an ugly incident that happened last night at No.9 Ekpenyong Ekpenyong Street, in Calabar South LGA concerning an innocent boy who was burnt with an electric iron by his stepmother. Precious Daniel Offiong, a 10-year-old pupil of Santa Maria Primary School has been living with his stepmother since he was 4 years old. Mrs. Mary Ita Edet is married to his Dad and has always been maltreating him while placing her daughter on a high. He was accused of misplacing two hundred naira by the stepmother and she flogged the hell out of the child and used an electric iron connected to electricity to burn him all over his body. So far, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs Dr. Helen Isamoh Egodo has immediately been contacted and has promised to visit the child and the stepmother for necessary legal actions. Neighbors have also confessed to the kind of torture/torment this young child goes through in the hands of his stepmother who most times starv

 By Sylvia Okoi The Cross River State Government through the Ministry of Environment has called for collaboration with the National Council on Climate Change to enable her mitigate climate change patterns in the State. The call for this collaboration was made when the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi paid a courtesy call on the DG NCCC in his office at Abuja. Emphasizing the importance of establishing an harmonious relationship between both entities, Commissioner Osogi stated that the working visit was propelled by the need to interface and understudy the dynamics of NCCC as well as seek support for the State in the face of the rising climate change cycle. Stating the importance of the Environment to  inhabitants, the Environment Commissioner opined that the environment provides inhabitants with food, water, air and many other numerous services that are being relied upon for survival. On the role of environment in climate change, Commissioner Osogi said the Environment wo

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed readiness to partner with the federal government in tackling humanitarian and poverty challenges in Nigeria.It commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu's efforts so far in that direction.  UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, made this known when he led a team from the embassy and Noor  Dubai Foundation to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Abuja. The Envoy who described  the relationship between his country and Nigeria as symbiotic, said; "Nigeria remains a strong ally of UAE and we would continue to partner with Nigeria in key areas like humanitarian aid, job creation, Nutrition, health care development and poverty alleviation" Responding, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, applauded the government and people of the United Arab Emirates for their timely interventions in critical sectors in Nigeria. The Minister specifically thanked the Ambassador

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), Breakthrough ACTION Nigeria (BA-N), and the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) has officially unveiled FAD FM Calabar Health Reporter, Emmanuel Onwuka, and 29 other journalists to participate in the first Media-EIS (Epidemiology, Infodemiology, and Social Behaviour Change) Fellowship Program. Onwuka has consistently received commendations from NGOs, organizations and from colleagues for his exceptional reportage on health issues. His insightful coverage has been praised for promoting accurate health information and increasing public awareness. His acceptance into the fellowship program underscores the vital role he has played as a health journalists and in disseminating crucial health messages on radio. The Fellowship named a group of promising fellows who are set to become leaders in the field of disease control, basic epidemiology, effective social & behavior change communication as well as infodemic management. Other recipi

  In Continuation of his grassroots sports development, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong of Cross River South Senatorial District on Saturday flagged off the 2023 Eze Igbo Youths Football Competition in Cross River State at Holy Trinity Church Field Calabar. Declaring the Competition open, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong represented by Charles Ekanem kicked off the tournament in a match involving Bedwell United FC vs Highway FC.  Senator Ekpenyong congratulated all eight teams stressing that sports especially football is a major unifier of all interest and tribes. While appreciating the relentless effort of the organizers, Senator Ekpenyong said he will continue to support the Igbo Community. The Igbo Youth Community President, Engr Obinna Nzeadigo thanked Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong for sponsoring the Football Fiesta, stating that the next tournament will be expanded and rejigged to groom young talents that will represent the Country in the futu

  By Daniel Bebia Cross River Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, the Hon. Pius Ankpo has restated the Governor Otu-led administration's stance on quality assurance in its desire to creating infrastructural development that  would stand the test of time. The  Commissioner made this known while speaking to newsmen on the state's preparedness as the 2023 Carnival Calabar International Festival draws nearer. He said carnival is about infrastructure and without infrastructure development there will be no carnival. He traced the origin of infrastructure to God adding that he created everything perfectly and beautifully well that is why people go to the forest for tourism, noting that "as co-creators, the state will toe the same line in order to give the best of infrastructure to the people." He maintained that with the rains coming to an end, rehabilitation/construction of failed portions of roads especially in the state capital will begin, stating that it would be

   ... Governor Lawal Describes Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Minister As Positive Agent Of  Renewed Hope Agenda! Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu and the Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal have flagged off the verification of the National Social Register in Gusau, the state capital, with the Governor eulogising Dr Edu as the "Positive agent of the Renewed Hope Agenda." Speaking during the flag off in Government House Gusau, thursday evening, the Minister bemoaned the huge humanitarian crises facing Zamfara and promised that President Tinubu has directed her Ministry to work with the state government to alleviate the humanitarian and poverty challenges facing the people. According to the Minister, "Zamfara needs immediate support, it is one of the states that in recent times have been affected by humanitarian crises. It has always been a flashpoint. "We are very confident that we will be able to meet your needs

  Emotions ran high Thursday when the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu met with the rescued students of the Federal University Gusau and assured them of improved security and immediate humanitarian response to support their recovery process. Dare-devil bandits had recently struck at the University and kidnapped twenty five (25) female students in their hostels. However, sixteen of them have been rescued by security forces. Speaking when she took the message of Renewed Hope to the Management and Students of the Federal University of Gusau, in company of the Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, the Minister said President Ahmed Bola Tinubu was concerned by the unfortunate incident adding that he would ensure the safe return of the remaining students. Edu who personally interacted with some of the rescued students one  after the other, said both Federal and State government are working together to improve Security in Zamfara State in particular and

  The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation will from next month start payment of twenty five thousand Naira (25,000) grants to the benefiting  members of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners captured in the expanded National Social Register of the Conditional Cash Transfer, (CCT) Scheme. Minister For Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, announced  this Wednesday when she met with the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC led by its President Joe Ajaero at the Labour House, Abuja.  The Minister explained that the decision to include vulnerable pensioners in the CCT scheme was President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's commitment to labour leaders which he will deliver on. Edu told the NLC that "The President mentioned very clearly that vunurable pensioners should be immediately captured on the National Social Register and benefit from the Conditional Cash Transfer, as part of the National Social Safety Net expansion and this was made c

  The attention of the Management of the University of Calabar has been drawn to a publication with an unusually lengthy headline making the rounds in social media titled “ Breaking: the University of Calabar Probe Panel Finds Law Prof Ndifon Guilty of Gross Misconduct...” We wish to state unequivocally that the aforesaid report credited to “Sahara Reporters” and published in various other online blogs, particularly, The Investigator. ng did not emanate from the University of Calabar.  The Management of the University of Calabar is yet to issue any official statement on the content of the report as presented by the panel. While assuring members of the Public that the report will be made known at the most appropriate moment, they are for now advised not to associate the report in the public domain with the institution. Public Relations Unit  University of Calabar

 .....Says Ministry Will Work With States, LGAs, Traditional Rulers, And Community Heads For Accurate Data. Nigeria's Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has flagged off the verification of the National Social Register (NSR) in Makoko and other communities in Lagos State, South West Nigeria, with a promise to get Nigerians a Social Register with integrity. The exercise, which commenced simultaneously across the country in line with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, will last for three weeks. Speaking shortly after she carried out door to door verification of the register at the remote Lagos suburb, the Minister, who was ferried in a canoe to the riverine villages, said the federal government was ready to put money into the hands of Nigerians to assist them in their businesses, education of their children, livelihood, and job creation. According to her, the exercise is an integrity tests. President Bola Tinubu wants sincerity in w

Deputy National Coordinator, National Cash Transfer Program under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alliviation, Dr Janet Ekpenyong  has felicitated with the nation on the occasion of the 2023 Independence Day celebration urging Nigerians to Unite and Advance the Renewed Hope Agenda. In a Release made available to the media, Dr Janet Ekpenyong described Nigeria as an evolving Nation whose continuous growth and development is admired by nations and as such, the need for collective involvement in the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu . According to Her, the current administration is poised towards providing Nigerians with greater opportunities especially the youths in order to compete favourable with their peers across the globe through enhanced empowerment, provision of funds and resources to fund their dreams and aspirations. She further urged Nigerians irrespective of party line, tribes, religion and culture to prioritize t

Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation,  Dr. Betta Edu has congratulated Nigerians on the country's 63rd independence anniversary.saying the celebration,though at a low key is symbolic in President Tinubu's Renewed Hope administration. In a statement signed by her Special Adviser, Media, and Publicity, Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, the Minister said the country's 63rd independence anniversary, is a special occasion for all of us Nigerians, regardless of our background, tribe or religion to celebrate the gains of freedom, saluting the sacrifices of founding fathers" Urging for a renewal of faith in Nigeria, Dr. Betta gave the assurance that with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, a new lease of life for Nigeria is in the offering for all Nigerians.  The Minister called on all citizens, especially the youths, women to stay patriotic and work with the Government of President Bola Tinubu on rebuilding and restructuring the system to yield bett

Youths in Cross River State have been advised to prevent unwanted pregnancies and avoid unhealthy lifestyles in order not to truncate their potentials and future ambitions. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Egbe Ayuk, who gave the admonition, recently, while speaking to students of the Cross River State College of Education, Akamkpa in an event to mark the 2023 World Contraception Day, said youths must adapt to acceptable behaviors that will engender healthy living, prevent unwanted pregnancies and acts that are inimical to their educational achievements and other life's dreams.  Dr. Ayuk also averred that the 2023 edition of the event, themed 'The Power of Options,' provides Cross River youths the compelling option to avoid unwanted pregnancies and other untoward behaviours. Also speaking, the Provost of the State College of Education, represented by Mrs Oscar Ebam the Dean of Students Affairs, appreciated the State Ministry of Health for the choice of College of Education