Detailing News

  By Kingsley Agim  In a significant effort to improve healthcare accessibility, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has funded one-year free health insurance coverage for 500 constituents across the five local government areas of Cross River North Senatorial District. The initiative, #JariCare Health Insurance, is designed to provide unhindered access to quality medical care, ensuring that beneficiaries receive essential health services without financial hardship. Senator Jarigbe emphasized that this intervention transcends political affiliations, reaffirming his commitment to prioritizing the well-being of his people above partisan considerations. Speaking at the cheque presentation ceremony held at General Hospital, Ogoja, Senator Jarigbe, represented by Esther Ellah, CEO of Dazzle Empowerment Initiative, implored beneficiaries to take full advantage of the program while urging them to ensure proper identification when accessing medical services to facilitate seamless healthcare d...

   President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment by inaugurating the National Youth Conference Planning Committee at the State House, Abuja. The committee, tasked with shaping policies that will drive Nigeria’s development, includes Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who expressed enthusiasm about the President’s vision. Speaking after the inauguration, Senator Ekpenyong emphasized that the government’s ongoing economic reforms are laying the foundation for job creation, entrepreneurship, and opportunities that will retain Nigeria’s best talents. He noted that President Tinubu is determined to reverse human capital flight by strengthening the economy to benefit all citizens. "The President’s message was clear—his administration is fully committed to empowering young Nigerians and creating a prosperous future for all. This conference presents a unique opportunity for us to influence governance, economic transformation, technology, climat...

  Calabar South Local Government Area (LGA) witnessed an inspiring and impactful International Women’s Day celebration, spearheaded by Assoc. Prof. Esther Archibong, the wife of the Executive Chairman. As a strong advocate for women's empowerment, she used the occasion to uplift and support widows, vulnerable women, and persons with disabilities in the LGA. Beyond her role as the wife of the Chairman, Assoc. Prof. Archibong is the Special Adviser and Focal Person for the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) in Cross River State. She also serves as the Chairperson of the Committee of Wives of LGA Chairmen in Cross River State, making her a formidable force in social welfare and community development. Representing Her Excellency, Rev. Eyoanwan Prince Bassey Otu, wife of the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Assoc. Prof. Archibong delivered a powerful keynote address. She emphasized the urgent need to break societal barriers that hinder women's progress, referencing th...

  … Asset Recovery SA to Appear Before Assembly Monday By Kingsley Agim An alleged land grabber (name withheld) has petitioned Barr. Gilbert Agbor, Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Asset Management and Recovery, before the Cross River State House of Assembly’s Joint Committees on Lands and Housing, Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions, and Conflict Resolution. According to the letter, the petition, titled “A Complaint of Attempted Land Grabbing with Impending Illegal Revocation of Property by the Asset Management and Recovery Committee: Request for Swift Intervention,” alleges the unjust and illegal takeover, demolition, and imminent revocation of a landed property, including all its appurtenances. In response, the House Committee has summoned Barr. Agbor to appear before the panel on Monday, directing him to present all necessary documents to substantiate his claims and either confirm or refute the allegations. Reacting to the summons, Barr. Gilbert Agbor a...

  The Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Arthur Jarvis University, Dr. David Egbe, has joined the global celebration of International Women’s Day, recognizing and appreciating the invaluable contributions of women in the faculty. In his goodwill message, Dr. Egbe described the women of the faculty as nation builders who have played significant roles in the growth and development of their respective departments, the faculty, and Arthur Jarvis University as a whole. He acknowledged their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence and institutional progress. Dr. Egbe used the occasion to express his gratitude for their continuous support and understanding, which he said have been instrumental in maintaining the faculty’s reputation as one of the best in the university. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving collective success, noting that the faculty's achievements would not have been possible without...

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has reiterated his commitment to continue supporting women's advancement in the state, encouraging gender equality in accordance with Sustainable Development Goal 5, as well as creating more opportunities for women in his administration. The governor pledged this in his message to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day through his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill. In the words of the governor, "Globally, several women have continued to inspire hope, unity, and peace across diverse endeavors. Here in our dear state, I am continually inspired by great women who have proven themselves in their assigned responsibilities, either in the public or private sector. "This year's theme, Accelerate Action, clearly underscores a great need for global leaders to urgently commit to actualizing gender equality, as well as empowering women and girls. "For us in Cross River State, we will continue to push for women's advancement and sup...

  The Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis and Cross River State Representative to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, has bolstered the preparedness of the state's table tennis contingent with the acquisition of top-tier equipment, kits, and accessories worth 2.5 million naira ahead of the highly anticipated Niger Delta Games in Uyo. In a statement made available to newsmen, Duke underscored his unwavering commitment to the advancement of table tennis, recalling the modest beginnings of Canaan Table Tennis and its meteoric rise to prominence. “When we embarked on this journey years ago, many dismissed our vision as inconsequential, but today, the narrative has been rewritten. Canaan Table Tennis has not only brought laurels to Cross River State but has also stamped its authority on the global stage,” he declared. He thanked governor Bassey Otu once again for the unwavering support for sports And table tennis specifically. Reflecting on the club’s rece...

  In a bid to spur economic development in rural areas, Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu has commissioned a 440kwp  mini solar grid to provide uninterrupted power supply to four communities in Etung local government area. Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony in Etomi community on Wednesday 5 March 2025, Governor Otu said that the government is working to ensure that rural communities in the 196 wards have access to clean energy through solar.  The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, said the state would collaborate with the federal government and foreign donor agencies willing to light up rural communities to ensure no household was left out. He pledged to bring the dividends of democracy to small business holders who desperately need light to stay afloat, in addition to other social amenities that make life comfortable. Engr (Mrs) Ngozi Ejiogu, who represented the Director General, ...

  In a major step toward improving transparency and efficiency, Governor Bassey Otu has directed the digitalization of Cross River State’s asset registry. This initiative is aimed at streamlining the audit, management, and recovery of government-owned assets, ensuring better accountability and decision-making. The move follows the Governor’s approval for a comprehensive audit and recovery process, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to good governance and responsible asset management. To drive this transformation, key government officials—including Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor; Economic Adviser, Prof. Peter Oti; Accountant General, Dr. (Mrs.) Glory Effiong; and Auditor General, Mrs. Anne Essessien—held a strategic meeting in Calabar with Nugi Technologies Nigeria Limited, the firm overseeing the project’s implementation. During the session, officials provided technical insights to ensure the asset registry system is tailored to meet ...

  March 5, 2025, marks a significant milestone as Mr. William Ekpenyong Archibong celebrates his first anniversary as the Director General of the Cross River Geographic Information Agency (CRGIA). Over the past 12 months, his visionary leadership has spearheaded transformative initiatives in land administration, digital innovation, and stakeholder engagement, solidifying CRGIA's position as a pioneer in efficient land management in Cross River State. Mr. Archibong, a seasoned GIS expert, brings a wealth of knowledge in GIS data processing, spatial data capture, geo-referencing and digital mapping. His extensive experience has shaped his strategic approach to leadership, ensuring that CRGIA operates at the highest standards of effective service delivery. Under his leadership, with support from His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, through the collaboration with NUGI Technologies - a leading consulting firm specializing in ICT and geospati...

  By Rasheed Olanrewaju  When the legendary Irish Catholic Nun, Mother Theresa who spent her life caring for the poor and downtrodden in the slums of Calcutta, India, made her popular quote, "Spread love everywhere you go. Let everyone you meet feel your love radiating and overflowing within you", she probably was referring to the former Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation,  Dr Betta Edu.This is because how Dr Edu systematically  transformed the life of her personal photographer, Smart Agbor Edim,from being a street boy to a professional lens man and then a University graduate perfectly aligns with Mother Theresa's assertion.  Note that Dr Edu is not related to Smart or had a prior acquaintance with him or his family before accepting him as a personal photographer and then going ahead to ensured he acquired University education. Dr Edu, a humanitarian per excellence, whose hobbies are touching lives, developing human capitals and  buil...

  By Detailing News  The longstanding land dispute between the Presbyterian Church’s Hope Waddell Training Institution and the immediate past Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade, has been amicably resolved, paving the way for renewed development at the historic institution. The Prelate of the Presbyterian Church, Dr. Ekpenyong Akpanika, represented by Most Rev. Daniel Etim, disclosed this at a press conference in Calabar on Monday. The briefing marked the commencement of activities for the 130th anniversary celebration of Hope Waddell Training Institution, which was established in 1895. According to him, the dispute was not solely between the Church and the former governor but also involved the institution’s Old Students Association. He explained that the contested land had historical significance as the former residence of the Inspector-General of Police. “The land issue was not just between Governor Ayade and the Church; it also involved the Old Students Associati...

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has extended his condolences to Rt. Hon. Orok Duke and his wife, Victoria Orok Duke, following the passing of her father, Sir Edem Ubom. Duke serves as the Cross River State representative on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) board. The Senate President’s late arrival in Uyo was due to a prior engagement in Umuahia, Abia State, where he attended the 70th birthday celebration of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe. During his visit, Akpabio acknowledged the depth of their loss and encouraged the family to take solace in the legacy left behind by the deceased. “Grief is a journey that words cannot fully heal, but the memories of a life well-lived bring comfort. Sir Edem Ubom’s legacy will continue to shine through the family he nurtured,” he remarked. The late Sir Edem Ubom was laid to rest in Ikot Nkim, Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, Akwa Ibom State, in a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries, friends, and well-wishers who came to honour his memory.

  In the annals of Nigeria’s public service, certain individuals distinguish themselves through sheer dedication, resilience, and excellence. One such remarkable personality is Comptroller Chinyere Angeline Awo, an accomplished officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Abuja. Her journey, marked by unwavering commitment and professional brilliance, has earned her a place among the elite in customs administration. Born on September 22, 1965, to the distinguished family of Chief D. E. D. Ohabuike and Lolo Clara Ohabuike (both of blessed memory), Comptroller Awo hails from a lineage known for its strong values and pursuit of excellence. Her academic foundation was laid at Asa Road Primary School, Aba, Abia State, where she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) in 1977. She then proceeded to St. Anne’s Secondary School, Umuobasi Amavo, where she earned her Ordinary Level Certificate in 1982. Her thirst for knowledge and determination to make an impact in the scientif...

By KingsleyAgim The Cross River State Government has commenced a statewide assessment to reclaim public assets unlawfully occupied by private individuals and organizations. The initiative, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, began in the central senatorial district and will extend across the state. Speaking to journalists in Calabar, Barr. Agbor issued a stern warning to illegal occupants, urging them to vacate immediately. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to using all legal means necessary to recover its assets, emphasizing that no unlawfully occupied property will be overlooked. He further noted that the assessment has already recorded significant progress, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and responsible asset management. The initiative has been widely praised by Cross Riverians, who see it as a bold step toward good governance. Among those commending Governor Bassey Ot...

  The Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, has joined family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating the immediate past Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prof. Ben Ayade, CON, on his birthday. In a goodwill message, Senator Williams described Ayade as a rare politician, a peace-loving and compassionate leader whose calm disposition and unwavering advocacy for fairness, equity, and justice remain commendable. “Your Excellency, today we celebrate you not just as a former governor but as a strong voice for justice in Cross River State and Nigeria at large. Your leadership and contributions to the development of our dear state will always be remembered,” the statement read. On behalf of the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Williams extended his best wishes, praying for many more years of good health and fulfillment for the former governor. The celebration has drawn tributes from political allies, as...

  The Cross River State Commissioner on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, on Saturday, February 28, 2025, joined the Ubom family in paying final respects to his late father-in-law, Sir Edem Ubom. The funeral service, officiated by the Methodist Church Nigeria, was held at the Shelter Afrique Field in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, drawing mourners from across the region. According to the official biography, Sir Edem W. Ubom KJW was born on June 25, 1942, into the family of Chief Wilson Nduke Ubom of Nung Ubom in Ikot Nkim and Mary Nyong Etim of Nung Essiet, Ikot Obio Edim, both in Ibesikpo Asutan Ekpe Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 3, 2025, at the age of 82. The solemn event attracted condolence messages from notable personalities, including the Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel ...

  By Peter Enyievi  The Permanent Secretary of the Cross River State Ministry of Finance, AF Ajah mni becomes the first civil servant from Abi LGA and second from Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency in Cross River States to graduate from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Senior Executive Course 46. The institution which was established by Decree No. 20, 1979, and CAP Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 is a high-level center for reflection, research, and learning, wwith the primary objective of serving as the nation’s foremost policy ‘think-tank’, developing a crop of top-class technocrats of high intellectual capacity, conceptualizing and anchoring the implementation of innovative and dynamic policy initiatives and strategies critical for national development. The Ebom-born social phenomenon, hails from Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State. He is a seasoned banker, politician and renowned scholar.  Hon. Ajah is an associate Member...

  The lingering crisis in Iko Esai community, Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, has sparked a fierce exchange between the Executive Chairman of Akamkpa, Hon. Felix Akposi KSJI, and Comr. Patrick Aidam, the former Personal Assistant to the Deputy Leader of the Akamkpa Legislative Council. While Aidam claims his resignation was necessitated by threats to his life and the failure of the local government chairman to protect lives and property, Akposi has dismissed the allegations, describing them as a desperate attempt to mislead the public. During a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Cross River State Chapter, alongside his solicitor, Chief Barr. Ogbisi Ogbisi yesterday, the 27th day of February 2025, Aidam announced his decision to step down from his position, stating that the situation in his local government had become unbearable. In his resignation letter, Aidam expressed disappointment over the handling of security in Akamkpa,...

  By Joseph Abasi-Abasi The Tech and Gadgets Dealers Union of Cross River has raised awareness about a series of alleged robbery incidents affecting their shops. Affected business owners have voiced their frustration, indicating that this problem has persisted since December. In an interview with Tribune Online, shop owners demonstrated their grievances by marching with placards. They shared harrowing accounts of their stores being broken into at night, with valuables being stolen. Okoro Uchennya, CEO of Chidon Communications, reported that items worth four hundred million naira were stolen from his two stores located at 49 Eta Agbor and 38 Marian Road in December. He recounted being shocked to find everything missing when he arrived at his shop on December 10th and 11th, 2024.  Uchennya urged the government to enhance security measures to help business owners operate without fear, noting that despite reporting the crime to the police, no action has been taken.  He expres...