Detailing News

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Barr. Alphonsus Eba, announced on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, that the APC is the only party with a permit to rally in the state. Addressing journalists at the APC Secretariat in Calabar, Eba emphasized that any protest must be authorized by the police. Eba's statement comes just 24 hours before the planned nationwide protest set for August 1, 2024. He noted the party's achievements at both state and federal levels, arguing that there is no need for protests as the government's policies are designed to improve the country. He cited Governor Bassey Otu's release of N10 billion to support retirees and President Bola Tinubu's efforts to combat corruption, insurgency, and banditry. The chairman appealed to those considering protests, urging patience and support for the government. "Our president needs more time," he said. "We appeal to Nigerians to refrain from street protests. For th

  A member of the State Policy Advisory Committee, Dr Julius Okputu, has advocated for support from all and sundry towards governor Otu's people centered development agenda in the state. In a chat with newsmen on Wednesday, he affirmed that, "a very close scrutiny of the Governor's development strides within one year  clearly reveals a determination to restore a glorious past, that which the locusts have eaten within a humanitarian agenda".   According to Dr Okputu, the most audaciously bold from very genuine emotions is " the setting aside the sum of Ten Billion Naira to clear arears of gratuity from  2014.  While highlighting new heights under the present administration  within one year in office include;  Construction of near impassable roads across the state, the Yahe-Wanokom-Wanikade- Wanihem Benue Border Road The forgotten Oban Nsan Road in Akamkpa Local Government Area.  The Adiabo Road in Odukpani Local Government,  restoration of the aesthetics of Calaba

  In a press briefing held at the Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar on July 31, 2024, various interest groups declared their disassociation from a planned protest. Mr. Olayi Gregory, State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, addressed journalists, emphasizing the importance of peaceful expressions of grievances. "It's tough for everyone, but protests should not be an option. We, the workers in Cross River State, are not participating and are distancing ourselves from this protest. Cross River has been set back by 25 years because of EndSars of 2020," he stated. Similarly, Comrade Monday Ugbodum, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), condemned the protest, describing it as "faceless." A representative from the Coalition of the Civil Society Network stressed the right to protest but warned against the destructive aftermath, referencing the EndSARS protests. "Protesters are driven by hunger, poverty, and inflation. However, our protests should take the

  The National Population Commission (NPC), in collaboration with UNICEF Nigeria, has launched a three-day training program for ad-hoc volunteers, registrars, and District Census Reporters (DCR) on Electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (E-CRVS) birth registration in Cross River State. The event, held on July 29, 2024, marks a significant milestone in improving birth registration processes across 19 states in Nigeria. In his welcome address, Rt. Hon. Alex Ukam, Honourable Federal Commissioner of NPC, expressed his pleasure and sense of responsibility in inaugurating the training program. He emphasized the importance of accurate birth registration for planning and development at all levels of governance. "I extend a warm welcome to all participants, including NPC staff, instructors, and volunteer trainees," Ukam stated. "Your presence here demonstrates your dedication to nation-building and your commitment to enhancing birth registration statistics in our stat

  Hoodlums have just attacked a bus, loaded with palliatives, belonging to Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Cross River State Council. The Pen Professionals, upon receiving information from the Director of Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA), Rev. James Anam, as beneficiaries of the present phase of distribution, hurriedly moved to the government warehouse and successfully conveyed the food items. The palliative-ladened vehicle, enroute to the NUJ Secretariat, was attacked, about an hour ago, with hoodlums raining hales of stones on the slowly moving vehicle, carting away food items from the broken windows. The bus driver, Joseph Akpaenin, whose phone was stolen and himself left with a battered shoulder from the attack, narrated that their saving grace was when the booth of the bus flung open with several bags of rice and garri dropping off. He said the mob's focus shifted from the bus to the items dropped off the both, giving enough way for him to scamper to

The Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) Mass Communication Alumni, Class of 2006-2010, have donated a Public Address System and two lecterns to the Department of Mass Communication.  This philanthropic act underscores the alumni’s dedication to enhancing educational resources and supporting the development of the institution that played a pivotal role in their formative years. The donation ceremony took place on Monday, July 29, 2024, at the office of the Head of the Department of Mass Communication.  During the event, Mr. Usani Ebri Omini, President of the 2006-2010 Alumni Association, expressed the collective sentiment of his peers. "Our time in the department was transformative, and although we lost some colleagues along the way, those experiences shaped who we are today," he said. "We are a young association, but today marks the beginning of our journey to give back. We are committed to supporting the Mass Communication Department continuously." Mr. O

On  May 22, 2024 commotion stuck at the Cross River State House of Assembly in Calabar, when a motion for the removal of the Speaker of the House Honorable Alvert Ayambem, was moved by Honorable Effiong Ekarika representing Calabar -south-1 state constituency, and was seconded by Honorable Charles Omang representing Bekwarra State Constituency. The motion was later affirmed and supported by 17 out of the 25 Members of the state House of Assembly, thus declaring the Speaker Alvert Ayambem removed as Speaker of the Assembly, following allegations of misconduct, financial mismanagement and incompetence. However, on May 25, 2024, Governor Bassey Otu convened a meeting with all 25 House members on the matter, perhaps with a view to resolving the crisis, few days later, on May 27, 2024, media aid to the Speaker Matthew Okache, issued a statement, confirming that the Speaker Honorable Alvert Ayambem has been reaffirmed by all 25 law makers: The statement reads in parts: “Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayamb

  In a commendable effort to enhance security and improve the quality of life for residents, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has installed emergency solar-powered street lights in the Uyanga and Iko communities of Akamkpa Local Government Area. This initiative, spearheaded by the NDDC under the leadership of Cross River State Representative Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, aims to address critical infrastructure needs in these areas. Street lighting plays a pivotal role in community safety and well-being. Properly lit streets are essential in deterring criminal activities, thereby creating a safer environment for residents. The installation of these solar-powered street lights is particularly significant in regions where electricity supply is erratic, offering a reliable alternative source of illumination. Rt. Hon. Orok Duke highlighted the broader vision of the NDDC in his reaction to our reporter. "The NDDC will continue to assist the state to bring relief to the state. As an i

Dear dynamic Youths and great People of Cross River State and our great nation, Nigeria, I write to you today not only as the Special Adviser to the Governor on National Assembly Matters but as a fellow citizen who shares in your dreams, your hopes, your pain and your desire for a better future. My heart overflows with admiration for the boundless energy, innovation, and potential that each one of you embodies. It is this very passion that I appreciate, and it is with a heavy heart, yet undying hope, that I reach out to urge us all to consider the path we tread ahead. As many of you are aware, there is a planned protest from 1st to 10th of August 2024. While the right to peaceful assembly and expression is a cornerstone of our democratic values, it is crucial that we reflect on our recent history—the scars and pain we encountered during the EndSARS protests. The EndSARS movement was a profound testament to our collective voice and the significant issues that needed addressing. However,

My dear youths of the Central Senatorial District of Cross River State, You can only tell the beginning of a protest; you can never determine the end of it. I understand how you feel because we are in this together. Prices of goods are skyrocketing, and it seems like our only option is to protest. But what about dialogue? I know you feel strongly about this protest, but sometimes protesting can have unexpected consequences. Let's start thinking about the consequences that will come with this protest: the destruction of property, injuries, loss of life, the risk of arrest and legal consequences, and the disruption of daily life. Please, our dear youths in the Central Senatorial District of Cross River State, don't throw your family, friends, and community into hardship. Our Senator, Eteng Jonah Williams, is working very hard and creating platforms for youths in the Central District. Initiatives like Project Light Up Central Cross River State and students' support funds are a

  By Frank Ulom The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for the rehabilitation of some roads and the installation of solar lights in some of the streets in Calabar, the State capital.  This was disclosed in a communique issued at the end of the NUJ Congress held at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Conference in Calabar on Wednesday, 24th July 2024. "Congress commends the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for the installation of solar lights in some streets in the Calabar Metropolis and the rehabilitation of some roads in Calabar," the communique read in part.  The Congress which was presided over by the Council Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, also highlighted various issues affecting the Union, Cross River State and the Federal Government of Nigeria. The journalists also commended the State and Federal Government for improved security, and groundbreaking road construction as well as

  The Senator Representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams has facilitated the installation of solar street lights in Obubra urban in Obubra Local Government Area as part of his ‘Light Up Central Project’. This first phase of the solar lights which was installed from the popular Obubra junction along Ikom/Calabar Highway into Obubra urban would enhance security and tackle socio-economic challenges of the people considering the importance of light to human and societal development. The solar street lights would, to a great extent, curb many nefarious acts during dark hours, thereby contributing to the security measures in society. Senator Williams, however, enjoined the benefiting community to safeguard the solar lights jealously in their interest and for the overall development.

  By Ted Afu Inyang  Even his most ardent critics, of which they are very few, would agree that Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has performed creditably in his first year in office. He has discharged the primary functions of his office; legislation, representation, and oversight; with a maturity that belies his young age and years of experience in the red chamber.  In just one year he has presented motions and bills that have had an impact at the National level, from taking a stand against the denial of treatment to victims of gunshots and other serious injuries, to seeking the intervention of the Federal Government to address infrastructure challenges in Cross River State. He has overseen the award of grants to hundreds of his constituents, facilitated the completion of several infrastructure projects, carried out feeding programs and health outreaches.  In the area of oversight, he has carried out his duties as Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC with energy and verve that has seen his

  By: Uchino Amatey The Special Adviser, National Assembly Matters, Hon. Chris Mbu-Ogar has called on Cross River State National Assembly Members to leverage his office to enhance collaboration with the State Government. Mbu-Ogar made the call when he led a delegation from his office in Abuja on a courtesy visit to Member representing Calabar South/Akpabuyo/Bakassi Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey, in the Federal House of Representatives, recently. He informed the Honourable Member that his visit was an extension of an ongoing dialogue initiated in a previous meeting between the Governor and National Assembly members, reinforcing the Governor’s commitment to the principle of “One State, One Leadership, One Interest.” The Special Adviser urged Representatives to utilize the platform provided by the Governor to promote growth and development within the State.  He advocated for more frequent meetings among National Assembly members, admitting that regular discussions would cre

  Yesterday, I had the privilege of spending quality time with His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, discussing pressing issues affecting the University of Cross River State. We covered key concerns, including inadequate power supply and the need for government intervention to energize the dedicated feeder for Unicross through the NIPP plant. Additionally, we explored potential benefits from the federal government's Energise Education Programme, which deploys renewable energy on campuses and teaching hospitals nationwide. We also discussed critical issues, including staff welfare, particularly the non-implementation of consequential salary adjustments for staff and other issues threatening industrial harmony in the institution. I appealed to the Governor to expand his ongoing road rehabilitation and reconstruction exercise to address the poor internal road conditions, especially in the Ogoja campus of the University. Also, we discussed initiatives to sustainably improve subvention t

  By: Uchino Amatey   The Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams has called on Cross Riverians to maintain their confidence in Governor Otu’s administration, assuring them that he is committed to the state’s progress and will not disappoint.   He made the call in his office on Tuesday, at the National Assembly, Abuja, during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the office of the Cross River National Assembly Matters, led by the Special Adviser, Hon. Chris Mbu-Ogar.   Highlighting the significant developmental strides witnessed in Cross River, Senator Williams emphasized that Governor Otu is successfully implementing his “People’s First” agenda. He expressed gratitude to the Governor for his inclusive, bipartisan approach to governance, stating, “The Governor is a veteran; his 12 years in the National Assembly have prepared him well for his role as our leader.” While speaking on employment opportunities, Senator Williams assured that

  By Uchino Amatey The Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, Hon. Peter Akpanke has praised Governor Bassey Otu for his significant developmental achievements in Cross River State, within his short stay in office. He made these remarks, Monday, in his office at the House of Representatives in Abuja, during a courtesy visit from a delegation led by the Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters. Hon. Akpanke highlighted significant projects by the state government, including the renovation of roads across the three senatorial districts of the state, and improvements to other state infrastructure. According to him, these efforts are clear indicators to Governor Otu's commitment to transforming the state and warrant robust support from all stakeholders. He further remarked that under Otu’s leadership, Cross River is positioned to regain its former prominence, with expectations to surpass current benchmarks by the conclusion of the Governor’s term. Akpanke

The Senate on Thursday passed for first reading a bill seeking to amend the Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (SB 525)  The bill was sponsored by the Senator Representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams.  The bill, which seeks to provide a legal framework for the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Ugep, if passed into law, will cater to the health needs of the entire people of Cross River Central Senatorial District and assuage them the sufferings of travelling to Calabar or other neighbouring states when seeking for medical attention from tertiary health institutions.

  By: Uchino Amatey In a concerted effort to enhance unity and elevate the visibility of Cross River, Governor Bassey Otu has called on the State's National Assembly members to collaborate and synergize beyond party lines for the betterment of the State.   The Special Adviser, National Assembly Matters, Hon. Chris Mbu-Ogar made the appeal on behalf of Governor Otu recently during his visit to National Assembly Members representing Akamkpa/Biase and Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituencies, respectively, at the House of Representatives, Abuja.   He disclosed that the visit was to re-establish Governor Otu’s commitment to foster high level collaboration for the progress of Cross River State. Hon. Mbu-Ogar stated that Governor Otu’s bipartisan approach is a reflection of his 'People's First' agenda. He urged Representatives to align their efforts with the Governor's vision for the state's advancement that will in turn translate into improved living conditions of the citiz

  By Itam Offor  The Cross River State House of Assembly has called on the State Government, through the office of the Attorney General,  to mandate the Director General of the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) to produce Miss Dorcas Paul Ojong a missing Corp Member. The House adopted a resolution asking for an immediate investigation into the mysterious disappearance of the NYSC member, an indigene of Akamkpa Local Government Area who was serving in Akwa, Anambra state.  The House had deliberated on a motion presented by the Member representing Akamkpa 1 State Constituency, Hon Okon Nyong Owuna who bemoaned the disappearance of Ojong, his constituent, posted to Anambra State for the mandatory National Youth Service Scheme. According to the Akamkpa Lawmaker,  Miss Dorcas Ojong who attended the College of Health Technology Calabar, was last seen on the 18th of February, 2024 by her landlady adding that  all efforts by her family and friends to trace her  whereabouts since then have rem

  The leadership of Internally Displaced Persons(IDPs) in Borno and Niger states have passionately appealed to President Bola Tinubu to in the spirit  of humanity and perfornance, reinstate Dr. Betta Edu to office as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to reduce their suffering. The IDPs who separately made this appeal recently recalled with nostalgia,how they enjoyed a new lease of life during the four and half months when Dr. Edu heldsway as Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Speaking  at Muna Internally Displaced Persons ( IDPs ) camp in Maiduguri, a camp hosting over 52,000 IDPs from various local government areas of the state, Usman Monguno  who said he has been an IDP for the past five years commended President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to lifting vulnerable Nigerians, especially IDPs,  out of multi- dimensional poverty.  He however pleaded with him to restore Dr Edu to office as according to him, "her visit to us

  The National Assembly has thrown its weight behind NNPC Limited's ongoing efforts to boost Nigeria’s crude oil production and grow its reserves, saying it will consider stiffer consequences for crude oil thieves and vandals of the nation's critical hydrocarbon infrastructure. This was made known when the National Assembly's Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) paid an oversight visit to the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), an upstream arm of the NNPC Ltd, at its headquarters in Lagos, on Tuesday. Jointly led by the Committee Chairmen from both chambers, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams and Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, the legislators described the menace of crude oil theft and vandalism of critical oil and gas infrastructure as major challenges to Nigeria’s revenue generation and budget targets, which must be curtailed. In his remarks, Senator Williams said it was imperative for the National Assembly to come up with legislative action that will

  In a commendable move to bolster education within his community, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the sector. Recently, he made a significant contribution by donating ₦1,000,000 (One Million Naira) to the Migrants Technical School in Mkpani. This generous donation underscores Senator Williams' dedication to improving educational infrastructure and resources. By supporting the Migrants Technical School, he aims to enhance the quality of technical education available to the students, thereby empowering them with essential skills for the future. Senator Williams' contribution is not just a financial boost but also a morale booster for the students. It serves as a reminder of the critical role that education plays in community development and the betterment of individual lives. This initiative is part of Senator Williams' broader agenda to prioritize education, recognizing it as a pivotal tool for socio-economic development. His effor

Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, Tuesday, inspected the State-owned pharmaceutical  company,  Calapharm, and  was assured that production would begin in September this year, following an anticipated visit from NAFDAC for accreditation. Following a guided tour of  the Calapharm premises, located along President Goodluck Jonathan's bypass in Calabar, Governor Otu expressed satisfaction with the quality of the machinery installed. He said, "This will undoubtedly be one of the premier pharmaceutical companies in West Africa, with the laboratory ranking among the finest in Nigeria and all requisite facilities in place. We are awaiting NAFDAC's inspection to commence production, as indicated by the company's Technical Director, targeting September. Governor Otu acknowledged his predecessor, former governor Ben Ayade, whose foresight initiated the project. "Presently, the cost of such an endeavour would be exorbitant due to inflation," Governor Otu sai

   By Kingsley Agim  Cross River State Government's effort against against cholera and other disease outbreaks in the State has received further impetus with the donation of medical commodities by the World Health Organization (WHO). Speaking while presenting the items to the State Commissioner for Health at the Ministry's headquarters, recently in Calabar, the Coordinator of WHO in the State, Dr. Yewande Olatunde appreciated the State Government for the strong surveillance and other measures put in place to prevent and mitigate cholera and other epidemics in the Cross River.  Olatunde stated that WHO concerns itself with supporting surveillance systems in Nigeria and will continue to leverage on the robust relationship with the State to ensure the objectives of preventing outbreaks are met.  The WHO official pointed out that the items donated will be used to further enhance monitoring and strengthening of infection control in health facilities across the state. Receiving the i

  The National Cash Transfer Office recently held an orientation/training  for State and National Officers on  effective programme delivery and implementation of the  "National Social Safety Nets Project Scale Up" for the vulnerable, In Abuja, Nigeria's capital. Declaring the event open, the National Coordinator of National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) Dr Akindele Egbuwalo welcomed the participants and reiterated the Federal Government's Committment to Reach 75 Million Households In the Scale-Up Conditional Cash Transfer, to boost the  economic needs of the vulnerable across the 36 states of the country and the FCT.  He highlighted other social investment programs, such as the Home Grown school feeding program, GEEP etc, that the Federal Government will be using to reach more vulnerable people in the country and encouraged Nigerians to continue to support the Federal Government. He also congratulated the  National Cash Transfer Office on the successes recorded i

  Arthur Jarvis University recently celebrated its annual Exhibition and Expo Day, a vibrant event that gathered guests, staff, and students from the institution. The event served as a platform to showcase the exceptional talent, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit flourishing within the university. During his speech, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Dr. Joe Edet, emphasized the significance of the event as a reflection of the university’s dynamic environment. He encouraged attendees to focus not only on the impressive projects displayed but also on the skills that brought them to life. "The ability to think creatively, solve problems, and translate ideas into reality is paramount for success in today's dynamic world," Edet remarked. Dr. Edet noted the importance of adaptability and innovation in navigating an ever-changing landscape, reassuring students that they are not alone on this journey. He stressed Arthur Jarvis University's commitment to nurturing entrepreneuri

By Emma Una AN armed robbery suspect, simply identified by his nickname, Bob Jay fell into an open well on Friday night after he and other gang members raided student’s hostel in Unicross, Okuku campus. The robbers, according to a student of the school who gave her name as Regina, attacked students in their hostel at about 12 midnight and carted away laptops, phones and money and after the robbery,  one of the hoodlums fell into an open well while trying to escape with their loot. They were many that came around 12 midnight. They robbed all the students in the Okuku hostel. They stabbed one student, broke the head of another with a stick before escaping with phones, laptops and other valuables”. She told Vanguard on phone. She said the  well was used by students to fetch water to bathe and wash clothes and has no cover. Nobody knew that one of the robbers fell into the well until dawn   when students went to fetch water  and saw the man inside dead. They raised alarm and the community

  In a heartwarming gesture of support, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams of the Cross River Central Senatorial District has been lauded for his generous release of six million naira (N6,000,000.00) to aid His Royal Majesty, Obol Oden Dan Ubi, the Obol Lopon and Clan Head of Aduma, in addressing his orthopedic health challenges. Michael Igbong INAH, a proud member of the Mkpani community, expressed his gratitude towards the Senator, emphasizing the importance of unity within the community. "I was first, like every other person, an Ajere man before I became Okpankpani, but the most important thing is that I'm an Okpankpani. My pride is Mkpani because when a storey building collapses, the POP or ceiling is not suspended in the air; it is also smashed. So whether you are pro Aduma, Afaben, or Ajere, if Mkpani goes down, we all go down," he stated. Reflecting on past criticisms, INAH remarked, "Not too long ago, amidst attacks over my candid observation that the piece heraldi

As part of her ongoing stakeholders' engagement, the National Population Commission (NPC) Cross River State led by the Honorable Federal Commissioner (HFC), Rt. Hon. Alex Ukam paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Sport Development, Senator John Owan Enoh to advocate support for upcoming Birth Registration outreach in the State. In a meeting at the Federal Ministry of Sport, the Cross River State NPC Boss appreciated the warm reception, commitment, and proactiveness of the Minister, despite very short notice, adding that was an indication of mutual respect and love for Cross River State. Rt. Hon. Ukam used the opportunity to intimate the Minister about the low record of birth registrations in Cross River State due to a wide range of challenges militating against effective  delivery of population services in such as difficult terrains, poor and or lack of needed facilities, low manpower, and other logistics as well as infrastructural concerns. The NPC Federal Commissioner further