Tag: Cross River State

Transforming CRGIA: One Year of Innovative Leadership under William Archibong

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 geospatial solutions, CRGIA has undergone significant transformation. The agency has streamlined processes for search reports, certified true copies and Certificates of Occupancy (C of Os) and all other land transactions. These improvements have enhanced productivity, accuracy and transparency in land transactions, successfully addressing previous challenges in service delivery. Additionally, a comprehensive overhaul and upgrade of systems have further boosted productivity, underscoring CRGIA’s commitment to modernized land administration.

Recognizing the importance of seamless operations, the agency has implemented a 24-hour internet connection and ensured full power connectivity, allowing for an uninterrupted workflow and quicker response time. These advancements have significantly improved the agency’s overall efficiency, making CRGIA more responsive to the needs of its stakeholders.

Read Also: Hon. Eyam Joseph-Kelvin, Special Assistant To The Governor On Students Affairs

Beyond land transactions, Mr. Archibong has initiated strategic projects beyond the agency’s core operations. His leadership has introduced CRGIS projects, aimed at utilizing geospatial technology to enhance economic planning and development. By fostering collaborations with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the state, CRGIA is playing a vital role in transforming Cross River State into an economic hub, leveraging GIS solutions to support urban planning, infrastructure development and environmental management. These initiatives contribute to economic growth by improving land administration, attracting investment and increasing the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

As CRGIA continues to evolve, these achievements reflect a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence in land administration. With Mr. Archibong at the helm, and with the ongoing support of Governor Otu, the agency remains dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive sustainable development and economic growth in Cross River State.

March 5, 2025
Hon. Eyam Joseph-Kelvin, Special Assistant To The Governor On Students Affairs

One Year in Office: The Journey So Far

One year ago, precisely on the 5th Of March, 2024; I was graciously appointed by His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, to serve as Special Assistant, Student Affairs, under the People’s First administration; and to commemorate this milestone, I held a special thanksgiving service on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

I firmly believe that every good and perfect gift comes from God as I took out time to express my deepest gratitude to the Almighty for His protection, grace, divine guidance, and the gift of remarkable individuals who have supported me throughout my leadership journey.

As I reflect on the past year, I am inspired by the goodwill and support of numerous individuals who have enabled me to excel in my role. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, Sen. (Prince) Governor Bassey Otu and his dear wife, Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for the opportunity to serve under the People’s First administration. I’m particularly grateful for the mentorship I’ve received from His Excellency over the past 14 years.

I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to Hon Emmanuel Ironbar Chief of Staff to the Governor, for his unwavering support, which dates back to my days as a student leader at the University of Calabar. His support, along with that of his wife Dr Virginia Emmanuel has been invaluable. Additionally, I thank Dr. Barr Ekpenyong Akiba , Special Adviser on General Duties to the Governor, for his remarkable support and guidance all through this years.

Read Also: Obong Throne: Court dismisses suit seeking reselection

Furthermore, I appreciate the support of the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Anthony Owan Enoh, Hon. Pius Edet, Commissioner for Works and infrastructure, The Vice Chairman, State Planning Commission; Commissioners, particularly Hon. Pius Edet, Commissioner for Works and infrastructure, and many others whose time may not permit me to mention; Special Advisers; DGs of boards; State Chief of Protocol; Members of the Federal Executive Council; and friends across the nation.

I am also immensely grateful for the partnerships with organizations such as Nugi Group, Cross Riverians in the Diaspora Organization (CRID), JB Farms, YALI Network Cross River Hub, Negroid Haven, among others.

Over the past year, we have achieved significant milestones, driven by His Excellency the Governor’s unwavering commitment to creating a Cross River State where opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of background or socio-economic status. A few of these notable successes within the student community and beyond, includes:

– Facilitation of full scholarships for 13 students through the Sir AA Odere Foundation.
– Securing internationally funded opportunities for 4 Cross Riverians.
– Hosting the first ever edition of the Cross River Student Leaders Summit.
– Organizing the first edition of the Cross River Student Entrepreneurship Employability and Mentorship Summit (CR-SEEMS 2024) and a host of other programs in line with His Excellency’s deep vision for our dear state.

Our proposed multidimensional model aims to empower over 6,000 students by 2027, enabling them to become independent while contributing to community development. We have engaged in various national and international collaborations, representing His Excellency the Governor, and fostering partnerships with embassies and numerous organizations to benefit our students.

Looking ahead, we have several exciting initiatives already planned and ready for execution, some of which are:

– Launching free JAMB/WAEC tutorials in strategic locations across the state.
– Hosting the second edition of the Cross River Student Leaders Summit.
– Organizing the second edition of the Cross River Entrepreneurship employability and mentorship summit (CR-SEEMS)
– Implementing the Campus CEO program in partnership with MEDA across the various campuses in Cross River State.
– Launching the Campus Talent Program and other programs in line with our core mandate.

I remain committed to serving our dear state with dignity and purpose. My passion is driven by my faith in God and His Excellency’s commitment to the good of our dear state. We are confident that with such sterling performance, in 2027 general elections they shall be no vacancy and the SWEETNESS WILL CONTINUE.

God Bless His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu.
God Bless Cross River State.

March 5, 2025
Obong Throne: Court dismisses suit seeking cancelation of reselection of HRM Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu as Obong of Calabar

A High Court sitting in Calabar, the Cross River State capital has dismissed a suit which sought the dethronement of the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, over alleged flaws in the reselection processes.

Recall that the Supreme Court had, on January 13, 2023, in a judgment which appeared to have disqualified a contender to the coveted throne, Etubom Anthony Ani but qualified Edidem Abasi Otu to recontest, ordered the Kingmakers to conduct another selection.

Again, Edidem Abasi-Otu had re-emerged unanimously as Obong for the third consecutive time.

Despite the government of Cross River State, in November 2023, accepting the reselection of Edidem Abasi-Otu V, the faction loyal to Etubom Ani rejected it and headed to the High Court again.

Read Also: Efio-Ita Nyok Emerges Chair of P4P Cross River Electoral Committee

The claimants, who were Etubom Essien Efiok, Etubom Okon Asuquo and Etubom Micah Archibong, prayed the court, in suit number HC/278/2023, to nullify the selection process and declare their preferred candidate, Etubom Ani, as the new Obong of Calabar.

Defendants in the case were Edidem Abasi-Otu V, Ntiero Edem Ofiong Efiwat, Edem Ita Essien Ededem, Government of Cross River state and Attorney-General of the State.

Surprisingly, in November 2024, Etubom Essien Efiok, who was the principal Claimant and whose statement on oath formed the basis for the Claimants’ case, sought to withdraw from the case ‘in the interest of peace.’

The Ani’s group immediately sought to substitute him with Etubom Etim Nsa Ephraim, who wasn’t a member of the Etuboms Council, and then, the legal fireworks of objections continued.

However, in yet another dramatic twist, the Claimants, on February 14, 2025, applied to the court to discontinue the case and sought “an order granting leave to the claimants/applicants to discontinue the proceedings in this suit wholly or entirely.”

This time, the Defendants did not object although they set some conditions.

Expectedly, the court, presided over by Justice Elias Abua, on March 4, 2025, granted the prayers of the applicants and accordingly dismissed the suit, submitting that “the application for withdrawal of the suit which a date has been slated for hearing is one deserving of a dismissal and not striking out.”

Justice Abua added that “An application for an order of the honourable court granting leave to the claimants/applicants to discontinue the proceedings in this suit wholly and entirely, is granted in part only as the suit is hereby ordered dismissed. In the spirit of brotherhood, the court orders that parties bear their costs.”

Reacting, Mrs Nella Andem-Ewa (SAN), lawyer for the Obong of Calabar and other defendants, said “the complainants’ withdrawal was made after the parties had reached the stage of ‘No Retreat! No Surrender’ or ‘litis contestatio,’ and the court agreed that issues had been joined, making dismissal the proper order.

“The judiciary remains the hope for all, providing a beacon of justice and fairness in the face of protracted litigation.”

In a chat, one of the Claimants, Etubom Micah Archibong, said the discontinuation of the suit was for the interest of peace in Efik land.

“The parties have agreed that the matter should not go on anymore. They want to be at peace. As a person, I’m no longer interested in the matter. My name has been used negatively and positively across the board. I think I need some rest,” he submitted.

March 5, 2025
Efio-Ita Nyok Emerges Chair of P4P Cross River Electoral Committee

Efio-Ita Nyok has been elected as the Chairman of the newly constituted 5-Man Electoral Committee of the Cross River state Chapter of the Partners for Peace in the Niger Delta (P4P). The committee, tasked with overseeing the 2025 State Executive Council elections, held its inaugural meeting on March 4, where Nyok was unanimously chosen to lead the team.

Nyok, a reputable member of P4P with a rich history of service, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He previously served as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Cross River Chapter in 2018 and eventually rose to sit on the Central Working Committee (CWC) of the P4P from 2019 to 2022 where he contributed his quota in overseeing the activities of the network across the 9 states of Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. During his tenure in the CWC, he distinguished himself as the National Research and Documentation Officer (NRDO), contributing significantly to the organization’s strategic initiatives.

Nyok is a certified mediator and conciliator, having been a member of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators of Nigeria (ICMC) since 2022. His expertise in conflict resolution and mediation further strengthens his capacity to lead the Electoral Committee in ensuring a peaceful and transparent election process.

The Electoral Committee was officially constituted on February 22, 2025, in accordance with Section 6, Subsection 8 of the P4P Charter. The committee members include:
1. Efio-Ita Nyok – State Representative (Chairman)
2. Joy Ikpeme – State Representative
3. Rev. Emmanuel Etta – Subchapter Representative
4. Careen Nkeruwem – Subchapter Representative (Secretary)
5. Cletus Bassey – Ex-Officio

The committee has been mandated to conduct the 2025 State Executive Council elections in strict adherence to the provisions of the P4P Charter, ensuring a transparent, fair, and credible process.

In a statement announcing the committee’s formation, the State Coordinator of P4P Cross River, Ukorebi Esien, urged members to extend their full support to the committee as they carry out their duties.

“I plead that we give them the needed support to conduct a successful election,” Esien said. “We remain grateful for all your contributions and commitment to the ideals of P4P.”

As Chairman, Nyok is expected to leverage his extensive experience in research, documentation, public relations, and conflict resolution to steer the committee toward delivering a seamless electoral process.

In his acceptance remarks, Nyok expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to uphold the principles of fairness and transparency.

“I am honored to lead this committee at such a critical time,” Nyok said. “Together, we will work diligently to ensure that the 2025 elections reflect the true spirit of P4P and the aspirations of our members.”

March 5, 2025
World Engineering Day: Sustainable Development

The Calabar Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), in collaboration with the Cross River State Chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), is commemorating World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development, an event dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of Engineers in shaping a sustainable future. This year’s theme resonated deeply with our commitment to fostering innovation that addresses global challenges while promoting environmental stewardship.

Speaking about today’s event, Engr (Dr) Obeten Nicholas Otu, FNICE, the Chairman-Elect of NICE, Cross River State Chapter, emphasized that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. Sighting that the theme for this year’s event underscored the critical role that Engineering plays in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He noted that Engineers lead the way in developing solutions to combat climate change, strengthen infrastructure resilience, and enhance community well-being. Engr. Obeten also mentioned that the global event provides a valuable opportunity for professionals, students, and stakeholders to connect, exchange ideas, and explore collaborative efforts to promote sustainable initiatives in the region.

He further remarked that Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE – the President of Nigeria Society of Engineers/Chairman-in-Council, Engr. Tokunbo Ajanaku, FNSE, FNICE – National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers along with the Chairman of the Calabar Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Igbor Joseph Alaga, MNSE, are committed to championing sustainability in Engineering. He also urges members of NICE, Cross River State Chapter, other divisions of NSE as well as critical stakeholders to collaborate and actively participate in initiatives that promote environmental responsibility and social equity.

Together, we can build a resilient and sustainable future through Engineering excellence!

March 4, 2025
Okpambe Fishing Festival To Hold On Saturday, March 22, 2025

The 2025 edition of the Okpambe Cultural and Fishing Festival (OCAFFEST) is set to hold between 21st and 22nd March, promising a spectacular celebration.

The announcement was made public after a crucial meeting on Friday, February 28th, 2025, convened by the Ogabor of Okpambe kingdom, His Majesty, Oche Achigbe Oguda, alongside his Aatumambe, community leaders and the festival’s organizing committee.

Ogabor Achigbe Oguda, in a remark, expressed his delight at the manner the festival has gained prominence over the years, emphasizing its significance in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Yala-Obubra people. The royal father, who spoke through his Osogbo, the traditional prime minister, maintained that the festival is a testament to the enterprising nature of the Yala/Obubra people and the enduring community spirit associated with the larger Idoma nation, and promised royal support for this year’s edition and subsequent ones “We are committed to ensuring a memorable and successful event that will showcase the beauty of our land and the strength of our unity.” The king stated.

One of the members of the Aatumambe royal society and key royal advisor to the King, Olaatumambe Ogar Ndifon, noted that the festival is significant in fostering peaceful coexistence and attracting visitors to, not just the kingdom but the entire Obubra LGA. He pledged the support of the Aatumambe royal society, emphasizing the importance of incorporating other unique traditional rituals and practices into the festivity. “We are dedicated to upholding the authenticity of the Okpambe Fishing Festival and ensuring that its cultural significance is preserved for future generations,” Olaatumambe Ogar Ndifon said.

Read Also: Communities Welcome NEWMAP EIB with Elation, Hailing it as Beacon of Hope

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Yala-Obubra Community Association, Calabar chapter, Hycent Ndoma, contended that the people of Yala-Obubra are highly peaceful, hospitable and culturally rich and urged them not to deviate from this good record as they prepare to welcome visitors from all over the world, in the course of the celebration. He spoke about the diaspora community’s enthusiasm for the festival and promised to rally all stakeholders for the celebration. “We are excited that the kingdom has fixed a date for another edition of the spectacular Okpambe Fishing Festival and as a diasporan Organization, we are committed to mobilizing our members to participate and contribute to its success,” he said.

On his part, the chairman of the Yala-Obubra Development Association, Patrick Oba Enem emphasized the festival’s potential to boost local tourism and economic activity. He noted that the event will not only celebrate the Yala-Obubra culture but also provide opportunities for local artisans and businesses to thrive and therefore called on all relevant stakeholders to key into the vision. He revealed that the palace, the leadership and the organising committee are working closely with the government to ensure that the festival benefits the entire community, LGA and state”

While addressing the people, Eriacy Confidence Oba, the coordinator of the festival and CEO of Coneri Nigeria, detailed the planned activities for the two-day extravaganza, revealing that this year’s edition will be a grand celebration, featuring two distinct events: the Moninkim festival and the Okpambe Fishing Festival.

According to the Tourism Development Expert, the Moninkim festival scheduled for March 21st will feature a vibrant Moninkim Carnival, a captivating Moninkim pageant, and a Moninkim/fishing arts exhibition, showcasing the artistic talents of the community. While the Okpambe Fishing Festival planned to hold on March 22nd will include the highly anticipated fish catch competition, a traditional chieftaincy festival, a beautiful fishing carnival, the exciting auctioning of the biggest catch, and a grand bonfire night to conclude the festivities.
“We are committed to making this year’s Okpambe Fishing Festival a resounding success,” Oba concluded, seizing the opportunity to invite everyone to join them in celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Yala-Obubra.

March 3, 2025
Communities Welcome NEWMAP EIB with Elation, Hailing it as Beacon of Hope

By Ukeh Omang

The Nigerian Climate Adaptation – Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) has stated its readiness to fix all threatening gully erosion sites in Cross River state.

The national project coordinator Engr. Anda Ayuba Yalaks made the pledge during his 3 day visit to the state to evaluate the state’s effective readiness towards disbursement and project implementation take off.

Speaking during the visit, the National Project Coordinator (NPC) Engr. Ayuba Yalaks said the visit to Cross River is a Scoping Mission which is aimed at accessing the state’s readiness to participate in the NEWMAP-EIB project.

Ayuba explained that the project is committed to collaboration with stakeholders in its bid towards ensuring a successful project implementation and completion in the State.

Read Also: Cross River Government Begins Statewide Asset Recovery, Residents Hail Governor Otu

On his part, the state commissioner for environment Hon. Moses Osogi pledged the state’s readiness to offer full support to NEWMAP-EIB in combating Gully Erosion in the State.

Speaking during a visit to his office, Osogi lamented that gully erosion has become life threatening to some areas in the state where houses and other properties have been swept away.

“Interventions undertaken by NEWMAP phase 1 had helped in reclaiming some of this areas as well as preventing disasters in some life threatening sites.

“We have always partnered with NEWMAP since it’s creation in 2010 and we are ready to do even more to ensure we reduce the hazard to the barest minimum,” the commissioner said.

The state project coordinator (SPC) of NEWMAP-EIB Prof. Emmanuel Eyo while on site inspection with the national coordinator highlighted some key sites that needed immediate interventions especially with the rains coming.

At the Ikot Effangha Gully site behind NTA Calabar, the SPC lamented that the gully has been life threatening for years leading to the collapse of about 3 houses.

Also speaking, Mrs Agnes, one of the residents of Ikot Uduak expressed joy as NEWMAP returns, “I am really happy the project is about to begin again as the work done so far in the community is beginning to get threatened again.”

The NEWMAP-EIB team led by the NPC Engr. Ayuba Yalaks and the State Project Coordinator Prof. Emmanuel Eyo concluded the working visit to the state by carrying out on the spot assessment of some gully erosion sites which include Mechanic village, Edim Otop, Ikot Effangha Mkpa, Ikot Uduak, NTA, Goodluck Jonathan Bypass in Calabar as well as Itate in Yala LGA and Agiga in Ogoja local government area.

March 3, 2025
Cross River Government Begins Statewide Asset Recovery, Residents Hail Governor Otu

By Kingsley Agim

The Cross River State Government has launched a statewide initiative to reclaim public assets illegally occupied by individuals and organizations. The exercise, spearheaded by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, commenced in the central senatorial district and will extend across the state.

Addressing journalists in Calabar, Barr. Agbor warned illegal occupants to vacate immediately, stressing that the government will take all necessary legal steps to recover its assets. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficient asset management.

The initiative has received widespread commendation from Cross Riverians, who view it as a significant step toward good governance. Among those applauding Governor Bassey Otu is the Chief Executive Officer of Hit FM Calabar, Mr. Patrick Ugbe, who praised the administration’s determination. He urged the government to remain resolute despite potential resistance and ensure that public assets are fully recovered for the collective benefit of the people.

Read Also: Akpabio Sympathizes with Orok Duke and Wife on Father-in-Law’s Passing

Since Governor Otu’s directive to the Asset Management and Recovery Department to investigate and reclaim all illegally acquired state property, residents have eagerly anticipated the repossession of these assets for public use.

The state government remains unwavering in its mission to protect public resources, ensuring that government assets are properly managed and utilized for the benefit of all Cross Riverians.

March 3, 2025
Akpabio Sympathizes with Orok Duke and Wife on Father-in-Law’s Passing

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.

Read Also: 130th Anniversary: Organizers Highlight Hope Waddel’s Contribution to National Devt

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.

March 3, 2025
130th Anniversary: Organizers Highlight Hope Waddel’s Contribution to National Devt

By Kelvin Obambon

Founded in 1895, the Hope Waddel Training Institution, Calabar, is unarguably one of the foremost and oldest secondary schools in Nigeria that has trained and nurtured very eminent and distinguished personalities who at different times contributed immensely to national development.

Hope Waddel Training Institution Calabar, according to Sir Toni Ikpeme, Chairman of the 130th Anniversary planning committee, has played a significant role in sports development. He noted that football in Nigeria was first played in Hope Waddel, the same way as golf.

Sir Ikpeme who spoke during a press conference in Calabar on Monday, also mentioned that the Institution played a part in the Civil War as it was the staging ground for the Nigerian Navy.

Read Also: Edo Sports Commission, BFN Hold Badminton Training in Uzarue

Additionally, Most Rev. Daniel Etim said that Hope Waddel Press was the first printing press in Nigeria. He said the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria is fully involved in the anniversary celebration as the school is deeply rooted in Christian moral values.

Etim who stood in for the Moderator of the General Assembly of the PCN, Most Rev. (Dr.) Ekpenyong Akpanika, averred that Hope Waddel Training Institution is a product of the gospel. He described the school as an agent of spiritual, intellectual and entrepreneurial development of individuals which symbolizes its name.

The 130th Anniversary Celebration is themed, “A Glorious Heritage Inspiring the Future.”

March 3, 2025