Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, on Monday paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Professor Ibiang Oden Ewa, the father of the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa. Professor Ibiang Ewa died in the early hours of Sunday after a brief illness. The late Prof. Ewa, a distinguished elder statesman from Yakurr Local Government Area, was widely respected for his contributions to academia and public service.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Otu described the death as a significant loss not only to the family but to the entire state. He noted his personal closeness to the family, which prompted his swift presence despite the short notice.
“I have always been a big fan of Prof. I read all his books on military politics; he was an authority,” the Governor remarked.
“This is a very difficult vacuum to fill. He lived an exemplary life, for the people of Yakurr, for the state, and for our dear country. We will do our best to continue where he stopped. I have not yet come to terms with the reality of his passing.” The Governor was received by the wife of the deceased Mrs. Patricia and other members of the family, including the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa.
In his response, Hon. Oden Ewa expressed deep appreciation for the Governor’s visit, especially on such short notice.
“I’m grateful for the presence of the state government, led by my principal and Governor. Our father lived a good life, and with the wealth of experience he imparted to us, we will do our best to uphold his legacy,” he said.
Author: Editor
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Gov Otu describes Prof Ibiang’s death as significant loss to C’River as he pays condolence visit to deceased family
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NYSC hails Gov Soludo for supporting SAED programme in Anambra
By Ovat Abeng
Anambra State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs Pauline Ojisua, has commended Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo on his continuous support for the Scheme programmes in the state.
The commendation was contained in her address she presented at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream 1 orientation curse, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Permanent Orientation Camp, Umauwulu/Mgbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area of the State, on Tuesday, April 13th, 2025.
She noted that the governor’s support, especially in the area of youth development programmes and his unrelented war against insecurity has attracted and motivated many corps members to serve in Anambra state.
She assure the governor of NYSC’s continue collaboration in youth empowerment programmes in the state and beyond.
She also commended a humanitarian group, Golden 20 (G20) Association of Awgbu, in Orumba North Council Area for their generous gesture in building three modern lodges for Corps members serving in Awgbu, saying that the gesture exemplifies the strong partnership between NYSC and host communities in the state.
To the corp members, Mrs Ojisua congratulate them for the successful completion of the first phase of their service year (Orientation curse), urging them to embrace the warm hospitality of their host communities
According to the coordinator, “It is with great joy and a deep sense of pride that I address you today as we mark the successful conclusion of the 2025 Batch ‘A’ Stream I Orientation Exercise here at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity Camp.
“Your discipline, resilience, teamwork, and enthusiasm throughout the exercise have been truly commendable.
“You have demonstrated not only readiness to serve, but also a strong commitment to national development.
“This orientation was designed to prepare you for the challenges ahead, equipping you with essential skills, knowledge, and mindset to thrive during your service year. From physical drills and lectures to the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, you have gained valuable experience that will support both your personal growth and community impact.
“As you are now being deployed to various communities across the 21 Local Government Areas of Anambra State, I urge you to embrace the warm hospitality of your hosts.
“Remember, Community Development Service (CDS) is a core aspect of the NYSC scheme. Beyond the weekly group activities, identify real needs in your host communities, develop actionable projects, seek funding, and execute them before the end of your service year. These efforts can earn recognition and leave a lasting legacy.
“Furthermore, having completed the SAED training, continue to build on your chosen skill through post-camp mentorship and practice.
“Follow the guidance of your Local Government Inspector, locate a skilled trainer, and work consistently to perfect your craft. May you emerge as future entrepreneurs and employers of labour.Corps Members, this is not an end-but the beginning of a journey where you will serve as ambassadors of the NYSC.
“Carry with you the values instilled here: hard work, integrity, patriotism, and excellence.
“The nation expects much from you, and I am confident you will rise to the occasion.I wish to thank His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, OFR, for his continued support of the NYSC programme.
My gratitude also goes to the people of Anambra State, traditional rulers, local government authorities, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of this camp.
Special mention must be made of the Golden 20 (G20) Association of Awgbu, in Orumba North LGA, for their generous gesture in building three modern lodges for Corps members serving in Awgbu. This exemplifies the strong partnership between NYSC and host communities.
“I further commend the Camp Director, Mr. Samuel Adama, Camp Commandant Captain EF Adegboro and the entire camp management team, including security agencies such as the Army Police, DSS, NDLEA, NSCDC, Man ‘O’ War, Red Cross, and Fire Service, for their professionalism and dedication throughout the orientation period,” Mrs Ojisua concluded.
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Strengthening Collaboration For Development: Cygnus Alliance Seeks Strategic Partnership With Obanliku Local Government To Drive Agro-Tech, Education and Cultural Innovation
By AMAWU Cletus Albert Amawu
Sankwala, Obanliku LGA – In a bid to foster sustainable development and community empowerment, the Vice Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area, Amb. (Mrs.) Glory Awowoh, warmly welcomed a delegation from Cygnus Alliance Nigeria Limited to the Council Headquarters. The visit, which took place in the auspices of the Council Chairman’s direction, though unavoidably absence due to some other engagement elsewhere highlighted mutual interest in impactful partnerships
“I want to thank you sincerely for your presence here today,” said Mrs Awowoh. “We are delighted to receive you and are open to collaborations that can spur growth and advancement in Banco. As you rightly observed, we have lagged behind in some areas. Therefore, any initiative aimed at improving our local economy is a welcome development, any day, any time.”
She expressed a desire to better understand the operational framework of Cygnus Alliance’s initiatives. “Before we proceed, I must say I haven’t fully grasped the nature of your programmes. What exactly do you do when you come into a community? Are these empowerment schemes? Do you offer start-up support, or is it about educational materials for students? Please, help us understand your approach.”
“We are not just here to make profit. We are here to make a difference,” declared Mr Ugal Godwin, Chief Operations Officer of Cygnus Alliance Nigeria. “With proper support and synergy between Cygnus and the local government, we can create a ripple effect, boosting micro-businesses, generating employment, and inspiring other regions to emulate the Obanliku model.”
A Vision Rooted in Agriculture and Empowerment
The organisation’s approach will involve everything from crop production and livestock management to agribusiness strategy and sustainable farming practices. In partnership with institutions such as the Bank of Industry, the goal is to provide beneficiaries with access to funding needed to kick-start their own ventures.
However, as Mr Godwin stressed, “Knowledge remains the entry point—students must understand the full value chain of agriculture before pitching their ideas. This process creates informed entrepreneurs, not just participants.”
Obanliku’s fertile soil and organic farming traditions present an exceptional opportunity. The clean, chemical-free methods practised in the area produce healthier, more valuable crops and align with increasing global demand for organic food. Investors from the UAE and India are already expressing interest in sourcing produce from the region.
A Sustainable Roadmap for the Next Decade
Cygnus Alliance’s 10-year vision includes agricultural production, export value chains, education, technology integration, and microenterprise development. If fully realised, this plan will position Obanliku on the global map as a model of grassroots innovation and rural transformation.
Community Engagement and the Cygnus Alliance Initiative
Mr UNIE Patrick E., Supervisory Agent & Field Manager, expanded on the need for active community involvement: “Across our communities and schools, a transformative opportunity is emerging, one that seeks not to extract, but to invest, nurture and uplift.”
Through the Cygnus Alliance Nigeria programme, Cygnus will assess school and community readiness, conduct disability studies, and ensure inclusive participation. “Are they prepared to welcome this programme? Are they equipped, both mentally and structurally, to sustain and support it?” Mr UNIE asked.
To ensure community buy-in, Cygnus will launch awareness campaigns targeting students, parents, and local stakeholders. “Imagine a student leaving secondary school not just with a certificate, but with skills—real, income-generating skills,” he noted. “Agriculture gave me dignity. That same opportunity should be extended to our youth.”
Teacher Training and Respect for Culture
The programme also includes teacher training and volunteer mentorship to ensure quality delivery. Cultural respect is fundamental. “We will never impose foreign values or ignore local customs,” Mr UNIE affirmed. “When community leaders are part of the planning and execution, the programme becomes theirs.”
Technological Transformation: AI, Blockchain and Agro-Investment
Mr ANIASHI Godspower, Chief Technology Officer of Cygnus Alliance Nigeria, presented a transformative vision: a fusion of technology, culture, and community development. “Over the past few years, our mission has evolved. Today, we stand on the threshold of a transformative journey involving three core pillars: artificial intelligence, people currency (blockchain-driven community support), and a culturally infused gaming and animation ecosystem.”
Originally developed for the healthcare sector, the blockchain-based “people currency” system ensures transparency in resource allocation. Now adapted for agriculture, this platform allows for visible, unalterable tracking of all transactions—an attractive feature for international investors.
“Our cryptocurrency project, once tethered to healthcare, is now being repurposed for agro-investment,” he revealed. “This is not just fundraising, this is building a decentralised, community-driven economy.”
Cygnus is also piloting the cultivation of black rice—a high-nutrient, low-glycaemic crop suitable for diabetic patients. After importing seeds from Thailand, the first round of seed multiplication was completed successfully, with the second phase underway.
An AI-powered system is being developed to gather and analyse real-time field data from farms across Obanliku. “We’re creating a digital ecosystem that empowers students, researchers, and agriculturalists with data for better decision-making,” Mr ANIASHI stated. The digital classroom will combine practical learning with analytics, cultivating agriculturally literate citizens.
Cultural Revival Through Creative Tech
Cygnus also seeks to reclaim Africa’s stories through gaming and animation. “We boast over 1,000 deities across the continent. From Bendi to Upe, our folklore is rich with potential,” said Mr ANIASHI. “Now, we’re turning that into interactive entertainment.”
Animations have already been rendered, and Cygnus is exploring partnerships with global gaming platforms like Nintendo and Sony. “This is about turning our cultural heritage into economic value. Once launched, this will be a multi-million-dollar project with a global audience and a local heart.”
Building a Mini Silicon Valley
To support all these initiatives, Cygnus plans to establish a “mini Silicon Valley” in the Valley region. This innovation hub will serve as a centre for research, learning, and incubation, with programmes in AI, agriculture, and blockchain. Regular seminars, excursions, and school collaborations are planned.
“This hub will nurture talent and ignite curiosity,” Mr ANIASHI added. “We aim to provide tangible pathways to success.”
Laying the Groundwork
Already, Cygnus has submitted two letters to local government authorities—one requesting office space within the new Education Authority building or Civil Defence office. “With a dedicated office, our work becomes more structured and visible,” said Mr UNIE. “All reports, meetings, and community engagements can be streamlined under one roof.”
Cygnus is not waiting for government funding to act. “We are starting with what we have,” Mr Godwin stated. “We ask only for policies and an enabling environment that support our work.”
A Call to Partnership
Cygnus Alliance Nigeria is more than a company, it is a movement. If you take advantage of the opportunity of our initiative, it will be a win-win for all parties for the Obanliku Local Government Area, educational institutions, and foreign investors. Hence, the could offer a replicable model for development across Africa.
“The future we seek is one where young people leave school with skills, where communities are actively engaged in development, and where local partnerships yield lasting impact,” Mr Godwin concluded. “That journey starts now.”
The climax was marked by the presentation of the Eyungwor portrait to the Council, symbolising sovereignty and heralding a new destiny. Eyungwor, the Bee Sovereign—a once-revered Becheve deity reborn as a modern guardian of nature and justice,- commands bees, heals through sacred hives, and enforces divine judgement. Present were Amb. Mrs Glory Awowoh, Vice Chairman of Council, Dr. Agba Joseph, Secretary of Council, Mr Ugbo Gabriel Kukanung, Supervisor for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Food Security, Mr Akpo Sunday Ayang, Special Adviser on Agriculture, Mr Emmanuel Kayang, CPS to Chairman, Mr Ugal Godwin B., Mr Aniashi Godspower, Mr Unie Patrick E., and Comrade Amawu Cletus Albert A., key figures from Obanliku LGA and Cygnus Alliance Nigeria Limited, affirming support for Eyungwor’s mission.
By AMAWU Cletus Albert Amawu.
Head, Media/Publicity,
Cygnus Alliance Nigeria Limited. -
Gov Otu Launches Digitized Certificate of Occupancy Scheme to Ease Land Administration in C’River
In a major move to improve the ease of doing business and land administration in Cross River State, Governor Bassey Edet Otu has announced the full digitalization and fast-tracking of the Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) issuance process.
Governor Otu made this achievement public on Monday during a courtesy and presentation visit by the Cross River State Land Cluster, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to his People First mantra by removing bureaucratic bottlenecks that have long plagued property owners and investors in the state.
“Getting a Certificate of Occupancy used to take years, frustrating many landlords and business owners. Now, we are changing that. With this new digital system, we can deliver certificates faster, cleaner, and more efficiently,” the Governor said.
The initiative, championed by the Cross River State Land Cluster with the support of Nugi Technologies Nigeria Ltd, marks a significant shift from analogue to fully digital processing, enabling transparency and faster delivery times.
The Director-General of the Cross River State Demographic Commission, Williams Archibong, praised the Governor for creating a conducive environment to deliver on this promise.
“With the new system, C-of-O for government land will now be issued within 21 days, and within 42 days for private land, ” Archibong stated. “This is a major departure from the past administration, where analogue systems led to delays and frequent errors. Now, everything is digitized and streamlined.”
Also speaking at the event, Ms. Akinlabi Ajoke, CEO of Nugi Technologies Nigeria Ltd, described the rollout as a dream come true for the company and its partners in the Land Cluster.
“When we say digital, we mean from start to finish. Every stage of the process, from application to final issuance, is now online. This synergy between the land cluster, the state government, and our technology team is what makes this breakthrough possible,” Ajoke said.
The Commissioner for Lands, Dr. Ekpenyong, described the issuance of C-of-Os as a long-overdue liberation for Cross Riverians who had been marginalized by banks and financial institutions due to the absence of proper land documentation. “This exercise is unlocking Cross Riverians who were locked out of the economy. With these certificates, property owners can now stand tall before any financial institution,” he remarked.
The Surveyor General of the State, Surv. Patrick Bassey, hailed the digital transformation, pointing out new security features like QR codes that make each C-of-O verifiable and tamper-proof. “This shows Cross River is now on a digital growth path,” he said, urging citizens to take advantage of the new system.
As part of the unveiling, Governor Otu personally presented Certificates of Occupancy to some landlords and businesses, including *Sterling Bank Plc*, *Prof. Victor Okon Ansa*, as well as *Mainland Oil and Gas Company Ltd*.
Speaking on behalf of other recipients, Prof. Victor Ansa said he applied many years back, and “it felt almost impossible to get a C-of-O. But this administration has changed that narrative. It’s a new dawn for Cross River. This reform sends a strong message that the state is open and ready for business.”
With the new system in place, the Otu-led administration is taking a bold step to create a more investor-friendly environment and ensure that property ownership processes are faster, more secure, and fully transparent. -
C’River enacts law compelling LGAs to remit 4% of monthly FAAC revenue to state agency
Governor Bassey Edet Otu has assented to the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency (Amendment) Law, 2025.
The law, according to Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, introduces a new funding mechanism requiring each of the 18 local government councils to allocate 4% of their monthly Federation Account receipts to the agency. This, he said, will guarantee steady road repairs and maintenance throughout the state.
Two other laws, the Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law, 2025, and the Cross River State Senior Citizens Centre Law, 2025 were also assented to by the Governor.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Otu described the legislation as timely and strategic, emphasizing their alignment with his government’s development priorities.
“These laws are coming at the right time, and I would like to appreciate the Speaker of the House and the entire Assembly members for their good work,” the governor stated.
“The Road Maintenance Agency Law ensures that our roads are constantly maintained and prioritized. The Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law is important because, without regulation, we’re losing potential revenue. As for the Senior Citizens Centre, it is a crucial part of our welfarist policy. We are a people-first government, and we prioritize everyone,” he said.
On the Senior Citizens Centre Law, the Assembly Speaker explained that the legislation seeks to establish a central facility in each of the three senatorial districts, starting in the state capital, Calabar, to serve the needs of vulnerable retirees and the aged. Subsequently, sub-centres will be put in place in each local government headquarters to support vulnerable elderly residents. “This law underscores the governor’s welfarist vision,” Ayambem said.
On the Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law, the Speaker noted that the legislation is in line with a recent Supreme Court ruling empowering states to regulate gaming activities. The law, which comprises 12 parts, 102 sections, and two schedules, creates a framework for managing, licensing, and generating revenue from the gaming sector in Cross River.
Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to reforms that directly impact the lives of residents, stressing that these laws mark a step forward in infrastructure renewal, economic management, and social inclusion.
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Ada Bekwarra Urges Indigenes to Protect Electricity Infrastructure as Stakeholders Resolve to Restore Power in Bekwarra
The Ada Bekwara II Hon (Chief ) Signor Omang Idiege, has urged Bekwarra indigenes to take charge and protect public utility facilities in their communities to avoid vandalization.
Signor Idiege, who made the call during a town hall meeting with stakeholders, traditional rulers, political stalwarts and and pressure groups in Bekwarra, said the Governor is set to restore electricity in the entire local government area and all hands must be on deck to make it a reality.
Idiege, who convened the town hall meeting, disclosed that it was not easy lobbying for these facilities again after the first ones were vandalized.
“As our governor works to bring light to our communities, let us join hands to safeguard these facilities and ensure their longevity.
“These facilities are meant to bring succor to us as a people; I wonder why anyone should think of vandalizing them.
“There are so many communities in Cross River state in need of electricity, but we were lucky to be considered, so let’s protect our facilities , not just the electricity but other public facilities been as if they were our personal properties,” he appealed.
The Director-General of the Cross River State Electrification Agency, Mr. Francis Ekpo, while speaking at the meeting, assured the people of Bekwarra that the state Governor, Senator Bassey Otu is committed to providing electricity to several communities in the local government area in a bid to alleviate the yearnings of the people.
Ekpo, who said the Otu-led administration is committed to its People’s First agenda, emphasized that the Second Phase of the state’s electrification project would commence soon.
“We are doing everything possible to provide electricity to unserved and underserved communities in Cross River State. His Excellency is determined to light up every home in line with his People’s First agenda,” he assured.
The meeting had in attendance the paramount ruler of Bekwarra HRM Odey Linus Ogbeche; the council chairman, Hon. Theresa Ushie; Member representing Bekwarra in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Omang Charles Omang; Senior Special Adviser on Power, Emmanuel Nkpeh; Vice Chairman of Council, Hon. Egbung Odama, APC Chapter Chairman,Comrade Odama Thomas Odama traditional rulers, youth leaders, elected representatives, and officials from the power sector.
The following resolutions were reached at the end of the meeting held on May 10, 2025:
Each community must form a local vigilante group to safeguard installations and other public assets.
Security and infrastructure protection is a collective responsibility; government alone cannot shoulder the burden.
Anyone caught vandalizing or stealing public property, especially PHED installations, will be arrested and prosecuted, regardless of social status.
Community members must be cautious of unknown individuals scavenging for scrap metals.
Stakeholders were urged to avoid politicizing electricity-related issues in Bekwarra.
The meeting also acknowledged and appreciated those who participated in the deliberations, as well as those who sent apologies for their absence due to other engagements.
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Anambra 2025: AAC candidate, miss Ifemeludike unveils running mate
By Ovat Abeng
The candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), for the November 8, 2025 governorship election in Anambra State, Miss Chioma Grace Ifemeludike has unveiled Comrade Igboanugo Udoji Daniel Friday as running mate ahead of the process.
Comrade Friday, a lagos-based businessman is a native of Anam in Anambra West Council Area of the State.
The unveiling took place over the weekend, during a thank you ceremony held at Ifemeludike’s country home, Ezinimo-Eziowelle village Square in Idemili North Local Government Area of the State.
The ceremony was organised by the candidate to appreciate her constituents for their prayers and support during the party’s Primary election that produce her as the only female candidate for the race.
Addressing her people, Miss Ifemeludike, promised that her administration will focused more on rural development, job creation, industrialization, women and youth empowerment programmes.
According to her, “I am here today in my hometown, Ezinimo-Eziowelle village also to thanked my people, especially, the women for giving me their full support during the our party’s Primary election. I am delighted to have people like you.
“I am out for the election to win and anybody who supported me, support God Almighty because AAC as one of the strongest political party in Nigeria, ably lead by our great National leader, Comrade Olawole Sowore, is a divine movement.
“What I chose to offer the people of Anambra State, if elected come November 8 is beyond money. I have come to serve you, to deliver true dividend of democracy to you all. I will run all-inclusive administration.”
On her running mate, Miss Ifemeludike, emphasised Comrade Friday’s capabilities as a “master strategist,” stating that her selection was aimed at restoring Anambra’s legacy of good governance.
She appealed to the people to support them during the voting process.
In his acceptance speech, the running mate, Comrade thanked the national working committee of the party for finding him worthy to deputize Miss Ifemeludike for the election.
He promised to put all his best to ensure that the party takes over from the State ruling All Progressive Grand Alliance APGA.
Some of the community leaders who also spoke, Hon. Emeka Paul Olum, Chief Collins Onyeorulu, Onyebuchi Onuigbo and Mrs. Elizabeth Ihemuerika, vow that Eziowelle Community would do everything possible to assist her to enter Agu-Awka Government house come March 17th, 2026.
They also pledged to mobilize six thousand voters for the party during the election to make sure that their daughter emerged victorious.
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Tension in Anambra community as monarch raises alarm over increased cases of hooliganism
By Ovat Abeng
The traditional ruler of Nimo Community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, His Royal Highness, Igwe Maximus Ike Iliobi, has raised serious concerns over what he described as a looming security threat caused by some group of youths in the town.
The Monarch raised the alarm while speaking to journalists at his Palace, on Saturday, in reaction to an allegation levelled against him by some protesting youth who accused him of masterminding the sudden death of one of the youth leaders in the community, the late Mr Ifeanyi Odibelu.
The late Odibelu, according to the protesters that shutdown all business activities in the area, including the famous Oye Market, in protest to demand justice for the youth, said he died eight days after he was released from police detention in Awka.
They accused the Monarch of being behind his sudden demise.
They also lamented incessant arrest of youths in the community under the directive of the traditional ruler.
But reacting further to the unfortunate incident, the Monarch urged the people of the community and the public at large to disregard the allegation, noting that he had no hand in the death of the late Odibelu.
He called on the security agencies, particularly, the Police, DSS and the newly inaugurated state security outfits, Udo Ga Achi/Agunechembra operatives, to conduct a proper investigation to unravel the actual cause of the death.
“I am innocent of the allegation levelled against me. This gang of youths are protesting against my throne for waging war against Kidnapping, armed robbery and for not welcoming land grabbing activities in the community. These are the same people that invited unknown gunmen to occupy the bush between Nimo and Neni from where they started kidnapping our people.
“The protesters, including the late Odibelu, are the people disturbing the peace, unity, togetherness and the development of Nimo Community. Nimo is a home of peace that doesn’t need hooliganism.
“The protest was for their selfish interest and not for the interest of real Nimo youths.
“The community under my rulership has done everything developmentally possible to engage these gangsters so that they can be useful to themselves, their families and to the community, but the refused to work, rather they preferred to involve in land grabbing and other nefarious activities that will fetch them quick money.
“This set of youths that are holding this community to ransom are not more than 30 in number. For the past three years, their criminal activities have thrown the community into chaos and disunity.
“They are doing everything criminally possible to chase away investors in our land that is largely known for peace and for the community not to benefit from Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s Solution Agenda.
“We enrolled these particular youths into various skill acquisition institutions, including Innoson Manufacturing Company in Nnewi and the ongoing One Youth Two Skills empowerment programme of the State Government for them to legitimately work and earn a peaceful living, but they all ran away in search of quick and easy money.
“I was traditionally called to come and rule the good people of Nimo because of my long time contributions to the development of the community and I can proudly say that my 8 years on the throne have recorded a massive transformation across the four corners of the town. It includes the ongoing construction of Nimo Civil Center which after completion will emerge the best across communities in the South East Region of Nigeria.
“A total of 14 brilliant indigent students are also studying Medicine and Engineering courses at the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, under my rulership scholarship scheme.
“I am doing all this for the sake of progress, peace, unity, togetherness and for the future development of the town.
Therefore, I call on the security agencies, particularly, the Nigeria Police Force, DSS and the newly inaugurated state security outfits, Udo Ga Achi/Agunechemba, to urgently deploy more of their personnel to the community to dust down tension and apprehend the hoodlums,” the Monarch concluded.
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Forum commends Gov Otu over appointment of C’Riverians into South South Devt Commission
The Cross River State Consultative Forum has commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for nominating indigenes of the state for appointment into the newly established South-South Development Commission (SSDC).
The group made the commendation in a letter dated Friday 9 May, 2025 and signed by Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq.– Chairman; Sir Maurice Effiwatt, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, Esq., Apostle (Hon) James Anam, Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon, Hon. (Mrs) Ada Charles Egwu, Hon. (Chief) Ani Esin, Hon. Joseph Etene, Esq., Prof. Offiong E. Offiong and Hon. (Mrs) Abigail Duke-Orok.
Other signatories are Barr. Bassey Mensah, Dr. Esu Effiong Esu, Prince Edwin Okon, Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna and Hon. Charles Atu (Secretary).
According to the letter, “The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) heartily commends His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Your Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, for the nomination of Ambassador Sony Abang as Executive Director (Finance) and Hon. Larry Odey as Commissioner in the newly constituted South-South Development Commission (SSDC).
“This decision reflects a profound commitment to inclusive governance and recognizes Cross River’s pivotal role in regional development. Ambassador Abang’s expertise in finance and diplomacy, combined with Hon. Odey’s administrative acumen, positions them as invaluable assets to the SSDC’s mandate of fostering sustainable growth in the South-South.
“As a Forum representing Cross River’s diverse leadership, we applaud:
1. President Tinubu’s foresight in selecting competent Cross Riverians for national service.
2. Your Excellency’s advocacy for equitable representation across senatorial district in federal appointments.
3. The nominees’ proven track records, which align with the SSDC’s goals.“We urge the Senate to expedite their confirmation and pledge our support for the SSDC’s success.”
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Global Stakeholders Laud Cross River TCTI-EFCC Plan on Digital Literacy for Nigerian Youth
Major stakeholders have lauded the Cross River State government’s innovative partnership between its Teachers Continuous Training Institute (TCTI), Biase and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to equip Nigerian youth with crucial digital literacy skills.
The commendations followed the formalization of a landmark partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on April 30, 2025, at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja. Professor Taoheed Adedoja, former Minister of Sports and Special Duties and current Director-General of the Cross River State TCTI, along with Cross River State TCTI team, finalized and formalized the collaboration with the EFCC.
The synergy lays the groundwork for a collaborative effort to develop and implement comprehensive digital literacy and cybersecurity programs. These initiatives are designed to harness Nigeria’s growing pool of talent and direct it toward legitimate opportunities within the digital economy.
Dr. Adekunle Adekola, a Senior Education Specialist at the World Bank’s Abuja office, expressed his enthusiasm for the high-level collaboration, emphasizing its significance for national development. He stated that the partnership demonstrates the nation’s commitment to providing global digital knowledge to its vast populace. Dr. Adekola explains that the training would significantly enhance the digital capabilities of both the workforce and the younger generation in the global digital landscape.
“This partnership will improve the quality of digital literacy, not just for the trainees but also for state and non-state actors, ultimately impacting the nation overall,” Adekola remarked. “It will foster collaboration and cooperation, enhance the skills of the trainees and promote increased knowledge sharing. Furthermore, it will strengthen the partnership between the state and federal governments, as exemplified by the EFCC and the Cross River State government, which is highly commendable.”
Professor Chris Igodan, President of the Institute for International Training and Development, Ohio, USA, praised the initiative as “excellent out-of-the-box thinking.” Igodan believes it will generate global goodwill while empowering unemployed youth with high-level digital skills, positioning them as key players in Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.
“This will further strengthen our hands-on vocational education system and facilitate the attainment of minimum standards for utilization by the Nigerian government,” Professor Igodan added, praising the EFCC for its partnership with the Cross River TCTI.
Honorable Philip Obin, Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Digital Economy, expressed his excitement about the project. “This is a very important development, a win-win for our nation,” he stated. “The training is important for injecting relevant digital literacy proficiency into young people. Professor Adedoja’s dedication to this cause gives me confidence in a positive future. As Special Adviser, I am proud that Cross River State is taking the lead in the digital space, and I commend the Governor, Senator Bassey Otu on this achievement.”
Dr. Emmanuel Omini, Acting Director of the Center for Digital Literacy and Emerging Skills at TCTI and a member of the delegation to the EFCC headquarters, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized the significance of TCTI’s role in promoting digital literacy training nationwide, seeing it as a major role for Cross River State.
During the signing, the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, had stated that the three-year joint efforts will see both institutions develop a standardized nationwide digital literacy framework and certification program, as well as launching cybersecurity training for personnel.
“We can integrate this into our preventive measures and that’s where we see the need for synergy with the Institute,” Mr. Olukoyede explained. “This MOU is a viable framework, and we will immediately operationalize its provisions.”
The EFCC Chair further hinted that: “This partnership aligns with the EFCC’s preventive strategy through education and empowerment. Together with the TCTI, we are building a digital future that safeguards our economy and uplifts Nigerian youth.”
The anti-graft Chairman expressed his belief in the potential to reorient idle youth through skills acquisition. “It is when they possess basic skills that we can encourage them to engage in productive activities. I want to affirm our alignment with the proposal on digital skill acquisition for youths and our commitment to this collaboration.”
The tech partnership continues to garner significant local and international praises, recognizing its anticipated positive impact on national development.