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Tag: Cross River State

  • SSG Receives Student Leaders, Emphasizes Importance of Mentorship and Goal-Setting

    SSG Receives Student Leaders, Emphasizes Importance of Mentorship and Goal-Setting

    The Secretary to the Cross River State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh has stressed the need for students to prioritize setting achievable goals and remaining focused on their dreams and aspirations.

    Prof. Owan-Enoh, a renowned Professor of Education, said this on Monday when he received the Faculty of Arts Students’ Association (FASA) Secretary Generals Forum at his office in Calabar. While sharing his personal story of how mentorship played a crucial role in his success, he encouraged students to avoid peer pressure and instead, embrace mentorship and humbly learn from the older generation, highlighting the importance of seeking guidance and support. “In today’s world, most young men don’t want to be mentored, they just want to grow without a significant ‘order’ but there is nothing as inspiring and educative as having a role model, that role model is the person who will define your every action and ensure you are on track,” he said.

    Comrade Alicia Johnson, the Secretary General of FASA, who led the delegation, expressed gratitude to Prof. Owan-Enoh for his time and attention. She further explained that the meeting aimed to foster collaboration and seek guidance on how students can contribute to the development of the state and emphasized the need for a stronger relationship between the office of the SSG and the student community, recognizing his role in promoting educational productivity and youth development.

    As a seasoned educator and former Provost and VC of the College of Education Akamkpa and the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) respectively, Owan-Enoh’s  achievements in education have yet to be rivaled, making him an exemplary role model for students.

    Read Also: Setting The Record Straight: NDDC Christmas Bonus Controversy

    The Secretaries in attendance were; Comrade David Godman, Comrade Slvia, Favour, Comrade Otie Emmanuella and Comrade Blessing Ita.

  • Setting The Record Straight: NDDC Christmas Bonus Controversy

    Setting The Record Straight: NDDC Christmas Bonus Controversy

    Our attention has been drawn to deliberate attempts to divert public scrutiny from the real issue surrounding the ₦100 million Christmas Bonus fund meant for 50 groups in Cross River State. Rather than addressing the fundamental question—where is the money?—certain individuals and media actors have resorted to attacking the person of Rt. Hon. Otuekong Orok Otu Duke, the Cross River State Representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    For clarity:

    The Real Issue is the ₦100 Million Fund, Not Personality Politics

    The funds in question were allocated by NDDC for youths and women across the three senatorial districts of Cross River State. However, instead of allowing due process through the state representative’s office, the Senator representing the Southern Senatorial District, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, allegedly hijacked the process and took control of the funds. This is a matter of public concern, and no amount of media diversion can erase the fact that Cross Riverians are still waiting for transparency regarding the ₦100 million.

    The Fake Beneficiary List: A Smokescreen to Misdirect the Public

    After sustained pressure from the media demanding accountability, a list surfaced, purportedly showing groups handpicked by Orok Duke to receive the funds. This list is false. Rt. Hon. Orok Duke has openly challenged its publishers to provide verifiable details, including the account numbers and contact details of the supposed beneficiaries. Until this is done, the list remains a deliberate act of misinformation.

    Denial of Interviews is a Common Political Tactic—The Focus Must Remain on Accountability

    Recent efforts by certain journalists to discredit Orok Duke’s reputation over a past interview are nothing but a calculated distraction from the real issue. This is a non sequitur.

    The same journalists pushing this agenda are aware that politicians routinely deny interviews or public statements when it suits their political survival. Even Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong himself, while serving as Commissioner for Finance in 2018, publicly denied his gubernatorial ambition within 24 hours of making a clear statement on record. This is a failed attempt to divert attention from the missing ₦100 million?

    Cross Riverians Must Not Be Distracted—Demand Accountability!

    The people of Cross River State deserve to know the whereabouts of the ₦100 million meant for youths and women across all three senatorial districts. Those responsible for disbursing the funds should present verifiable records rather than sponsoring personal attacks against the NDDC state representative.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the equitable distribution of resources meant for the development of Cross River State. He will not be intimidated by smear campaigns aimed at shielding those who have questions to answer.

    Cross Riverians, stay focused—demand accountability!

    Signed

    Cross River Rep NDDC Media Team

  • Illegal Mining in Cross River State: A Call to Action – Okoi Obono Obla

    Illegal Mining in Cross River State: A Call to Action – Okoi Obono Obla

    The unabated influx of illegal miners and their cohorts from the Sahelian region into Cross River State’s Yakurr Local Government Area is disconcerting. Despite efforts to draw attention to this issue over the past three months, the problem persists. These foreign nationals, aided by Nigerian collaborators, have settled in towns like Ugep, Ekori, and Nko, receiving accommodations and hospitality that enable them to blend in and evade authorities.

    The sheer scale of this operation suggests collusion between traditional institutions, local communities, and external forces. It’s implausible that individuals from Mauritania, Mali, Niger, and Chad could traverse thousands of kilometers, navigating Nigeria’s rugged terrain without internal assistance.

    The Nigerian Immigration Service and security agencies must take decisive action. Powerful illegal syndicates, backed by foreign interests, have infiltrated Cross River State, exploiting its resources and engaging in money laundering, human trafficking, and potentially terrorist financing. These crimes are inextricably linked, destabilizing communities and undermining national security.

    Read Also: Reps dismiss reports on demand of N480m to approve varsities’ 2025 budgets

    The Cross River State contingents to the National Assembly have been conspicuous in their absence, despite mining, immigration, and security falling within their legislative purview. As national parliamentarians, they should be at the forefront of addressing this crisis.

    I urge the Government of Cross River State to declare a state of emergency and take proactive measures to engage national authorities. The problem of illegal mining has also been reported in Biase and Obanliku Local Government Areas, with reports of heavy illegal gold mining activity as far back as 2023.

    As for why the Government of Cross River State must declare an emergency on the issue:

    1. Magnitude of the problem: The write-up suggests that the issue of illegal mining is widespread and has been ongoing for some time, with reports of heavy activity in multiple local government areas.

    2. Security implications: The presence of illegal miners and their cohorts from the Sahelian region raises concerns about national security, particularly with regards to terrorism and banditry.

    3. Environmental degradation: Illegal mining activities can have devastating environmental consequences, including deforestation, water pollution, and soil degradation.

    4. Economic losses: The state is likely losing significant revenue due to the illegal mining activities, which could be better harnessed for development purposes.

    5. Need for coordinated response: Declaring an emergency would enable the state government to mobilize resources, coordinate responses, and take decisive action to address the issue.

    By declaring an emergency, the Government of Cross River State can demonstrate its commitment to addressing the issue of illegal mining and ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of its citizens.

    The government must warn traditional rulers in affected areas to cease collaborating with these illegal miners and criminal syndicates, lest they face legal consequences.

  • Gov Otu Emerges Vice Chairman of South-South Governors’ Forum

    Gov Otu Emerges Vice Chairman of South-South Governors’ Forum

    …As Governors appeal that work should also begin from Calabar axis of Coastal Highway

    Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has emerged Vice Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum at a meeting held Tuesday 28th January, 2025, in Bayelsa State. The meeting also saw the emergence of Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State as Chairman of the Forum.

    Arising from the meeting held in the Government House, Yenagoa, five governors from the region, having deliberated extensively on pressing issues and strategies vital for the unity and development of the region, issued a 10-point communique, while expressing their commitment to collaborative governance that would guarantee the well-being of the people, and advance sustainable development.

    The Forum resolved to:

    “Extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. President, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support and commitment that led to the emergence of our esteemed son, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, as President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “Commend Mr. President for the award and commencement of the Coastal Road project and appeal that work should also begin from the Calabar axis. This strategic infrastructure will not only enhance connectivity but also stimulate economic development in the region.

    Read Also: Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    “Thank Mr. President for the on-going work on the East-West Road. The Forum emphasised the need to expedite action towards completion. This will facilitate movement within the Region, noting that it is the major road that links the South-South States.

    “Request the Federal Government to urge relevant Stakeholders/Agencies to extend the remediation of polluted environment on-going in Ogoni land to other impacted communities in the region.

    “Call on the Federal Government to activate the railway line in Port Harcourt and connect other States in the region.

    “Support Mr. President’s Tax Reform Bill. The Forum further urge Mr. President to extend the proposed VAT sharing percentages to other areas of derivation such as Oil and Gas.

    “Forge a collaborative path forward amongst States, emphasising the importance of unity in our collective efforts to achieve shared goals.

    “Establish a robust, structured regional security network, aimed at enhancing safety and security in the South-South. Such a network will be instrumental in fostering a stable environment conducive to economic growth and prosperity.

    “Encourage member States to broaden their economic horizons by diversifying beyond oil and gas.

    “Reinvigorate the BRACED Commission, to better represent the interests and aspirations of communities in our region.”

  • Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    …Says move in the best interest of C’River

    The initiator of the Think Cross River group (TCRG), Edem Darlington has commended the Cross River State governor for his security approach and modern policing initiatives in the State.

    Mr. Darlington made the commendation while speaking with selected journalists in Calabar the state capital.

    According to him, the emergence of governor Bassey Otu has brought peace and tranquility tnot just to the state capital but the entire Cross River.

    His words, “We were all here in this state when kidnappings, arson, ritual killings and all manner of crime were being perpetuated sometimes in broad day light.

    Read Also: Senator Odey Flags Off Annual School Census for 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 Academic Sessions

    “At one point, Cross River State was rated as one of the most dangerous places to visit in Nigeria. We moved from being the most peaceful state to one of the most unsafe places in Nigeria.

    “No one was spared, our medical doctors repeatedly kidnapped, a situation that prompted the leadership of the NMA at the time to go on strike each time one of their members were kidnapped.

    “Even water leaf sellers and petty traders were kidnapped and as low as five thousand was collected as ransom. Those were the issues the governor met in ground. But today, the reverse is the case.

    “The governor since assumption of office has had countless security meetings, provided  security officers with modern equipments to fight all forms of crime and criminality in the State. I think the governor deserves commendation for returning our state back to a peaceful and secured place,” Edem noted.

    Mr. Darlington who is also the deputy chief press secretary to the governor, used the opportunity to clear the air regarding the recent cancellation of a cultural parade, Nkot Mbok. Insisting that the cancellation was done in the best interest of the State.

    “No one in the State have access to the level of security information that the governor has. So if intelligence gathering points to the fact that a particular event will lead to chaos were lives and properties could be lost, what a good leader and father will do is to be proactive and nip the issue in immediately. It is my sincere opinion that the government should rather be commended.

    “If you look at the recently released Nigeria security report for 2024, you will realize that Cross River State made significant progress in terms of peace and security stability and that means that we are  gradually taking back our place as the safest and most peaceful state in the country.”

    The Think Cross River initiator used the opportunity to call on young people in the State to continue to pray for the peace of the state as no meaningful development can thrive in an atmosphere of chaos and violence.

  • Senator Odey Flags Off Annual School Census for 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 Academic Sessions

    Senator Odey Flags Off Annual School Census for 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 Academic Sessions

    The Cross River State Ministry of Education has flagged off the Annual School Census for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions. The event, held at the Ministry of Education Headquarters in Calabar, is aimed at gathering data from public, private, and technical schools across the state to support effective planning and decision-making for the education sector.

    Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Senator Stephen Odey, the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, welcomed stakeholders and expressed appreciation to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for his dedication to improving the education system.

    “We are working tirelessly to reposition the education sector in Cross River State,” Senator Odey said. He thanked Governor Otu for funding the West African Examination Council (WAEC) registration fees for 14,804 students from the state who passed their mock exams, ensuring their costs are fully covered.

    The Commissioner also announced the Governor’s approval for the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa, signed into law on January 8, 2025, along with the release of a take-off grant. Additionally, he noted that all academic results in the state are now digitized and can be accessed globally, making verification and accessibility easier.

    Read Also: Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Receives Thisday Award for Young Global Leader

    Senator Odey stressed the significance of accurate data collection during the census, describing it as essential for shaping the future of education in the state. He urged the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), ministry directors, and other stakeholders to ensure the process is thorough, transparent, and error-free.

    “The data collected must be accurate, as it will guide future planning and allocation of resources,” says Sen. Odey

    He also thanked Teckplus Digital Solutions (Future x) NAPPS, and ANCOPPS, for their partnership and contributions to the state’s education system.

    Adebayo Adeyemi, Chief Operating Officer of Future X, commended Senator Odey for his leadership, stating, “The education sector has witnessed remarkable progress since Senator Odey assumed office. Cross River State is lucky to have him in this role.”

    Hon. Mike Egre, National Council Member for the South-South Zone of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), assured stakeholders of the readiness of private schools to participate in the exercise. “Private schools are prepared and committed to transparent and accurate data collection,” he said while urging the prompt distribution of census materials.

    The Annual School Census aims to strengthen the state’s education system through effective planning and collaboration. The data gathered will form the basis for future policies and programs, aligning with Governor Otu’s vision for a progressive and inclusive education sector in Cross River State.

  • Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Receives Thisday Award for Young Global Leader

    Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Receives Thisday Award for Young Global Leader

    On January 27, 2025, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong was honored with the prestigious Thisday Award for Young Global Leader at an illustrious ceremony held at Eko Hotel, Lagos. The award celebrates his exemplary leadership and dedication to public service.

    In his acceptance speech, Senator Ekpenyong expressed heartfelt gratitude to the key figures who have influenced his journey. He dedicated the award to his constituents and his parents, acknowledging their sacrifices and values as his guiding light. He also appreciated the mentorship and support of political leaders, including Prof. Ben Ayade, Senator Bassey Otu, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Special mention was made of his wife, Netanela, for her unwavering love and support throughout his journey.

    Read Also: APC CRS Congratulates Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong On His Recognition As Young Global Leader By THISDAY Award

    “This recognition strengthens my resolve to continue striving for excellence and creating meaningful impact,” Senator Ekpenyong said, emphasizing the collective effort of family, mentors, and partners in his success.

    The Thisday Award for Young Global Leader highlights his commitment to transformative leadership and service to the nation.

  • APC CRS Congratulates Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong On His Recognition As Young Global Leader By THISDAY Award

    APC CRS Congratulates Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong On His Recognition As Young Global Leader By THISDAY Award

    The State Chairman Alphonsus Ogar Eba Esq JP and the entire State Executive Committee Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Cross River State joyfully celebrates you, Distinguished Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, on your remarkable achievement in being honored with the prestigious Thisday Award for Young Global Leader at the event held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, on January 27, 2025.

    Your outstanding accomplishments first as the former Commissioner for Finance, Cross River State and now as a Senator representing the good people of Cross River Southern Senatorial district, have continued to set the benchmarks for excellence, effective leadership and service.

    This award serves as a recognition not just of your potential but of the milestones you have already achieved in governance and public life.

    We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and we are confident that this award will further inspire you to continue striving for excellence in service to our party, state and nation.

    As a party, we appreciate your loyalty and collaboration with our dear leader, His Excellency,  Apostle Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

    We urge you to see this award as a call to stay humble and loyal to the party and it’s leadership; committed, honest and dedicated to your constituents, above all, to remain fully focused on your duties as a legislator so that at the end of your first term, you should have earned the confidence of party and it’s leadership to seek re election back to the National Assembly.

    We use this medium to further pray for God’s protection over you as well as your growth and prosperity even as we encourage you to continue to close ranks with the leadership of our great party in all you do.

    Congratulations once again Distinguished Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong.

    SIGNED

    Hon. Emmanuel Edem Inyang JP
    Publicity Secretary
    All Progressives Congress
    Cross River State

    28th January, 2025.

  • Governor Otu Launches Initiative to Support Civil Servants Beyond Retirement

    Governor Otu Launches Initiative to Support Civil Servants Beyond Retirement

    Governor Bassey Edet Otu has officially launched the Retiree Entrepreneurship Development Initiative (REDI), a program designed to empower retiring and recently retired civil servants in Cross River State. The initiative, spearheaded by the State’s Medium Micro-Enterprise Development Agency- MEDA, in collaboration with key partners, aims to equip retirees with essential entrepreneurial skills and resources to ensure economic independence and financial stability post-retirement.

    Speaking on the program’s objectives, the Director General of MEDA, Great Ogban, said, “REDI is about empowering our senior citizens to embrace new opportunities and build fulfilling lives after their years of service. By providing them with the necessary skills and resources, we aim to reduce post-retirement poverty and foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

    The REDI program focuses on targeted training in leadership, capacity building, and skill acquisition. It is open to civil servants within three years of retirement as well as those who retired within the past three years. Through this initiative, participants will gain the knowledge and tools required to launch and successfully manage their own businesses, thereby developing self-reliance and financial security.

    “REDI perfectly reflects Governor Otu’s vision of prioritizing the welfare of all Cross Riverians, ensuring a dignified and prosperous retirement for our dedicated civil servants,” noted Obol Innocent Eteng, the Head of Service.

    Read Also: Enugu State Government vows to prosecute man who cut off his wife’s hand in ‘barbaric’ attack

    Governor Otu has demonstrated undaunted commitment to addressing the welfare of civil servants in the state. Notable achievements of his administration include; allocating ₦10 billion to clear the backlog of gratuities owed to retirees. Implementing promotions for state and local government workers. Increasing salaries to align with the national minimum wage standard.

    These measures, combined with REDI, bolsters Governor Otu’s passion to improving the lives of civil servants, both active and retired, and ensuring their contributions are rewarded with dignity.

    The REDI launch event was attended by prominent government officials, including Elder Obeten Obeten Enang, Director of Administration (Head of Service Office); Martin Unoh, Director of Accounts (Head of Service Office); and Enwongo-Abasi Okon, General Manager of MEDA.

    The initiative has received wide acceptance and commendation as the program is aimed at tackling the challenges of retirement and building sustainable economic development among retirees.

  • Press Release: My Position on the Fake List of NDDC Christmas Bonus Beneficiaries

    Press Release: My Position on the Fake List of NDDC Christmas Bonus Beneficiaries

    My attention has been drawn to a list making the rounds, purportedly showing beneficiaries I allegedly shortlisted for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Christmas Bonus for groups in Cross River State. I want to categorically state that the list is false and did not originate from me or my office.

    The Commission had earmarked ₦100 million for distribution to 50 groups in Cross River State, with each group expected to receive N2 million. Unfortunately, this project was hijacked by the Senator representing the Southern Senatorial District, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who took control of the funds without consulting me as the state representative. For the records, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong is currently keeping the N100 million released by the NDDC for youths and women across the three senatorial zones of Cross River State.

    I want to emphasize that the list being circulated is fake, and I strongly urge those responsible to desist from such political manipulation. For transparency, I challenge the publishers of the list to make public the details of the 50 groups that were supposed to benefit from the project. These details should include the group names, account numbers, phone numbers, and the names of beneficiaries.

    It is disheartening that instead of focusing on the legislative duties he was elected to perform, the Senator has chosen to interfere in my role as the state representative of the NDDC. While he has the constitutional duty to provide oversight on the Commission, that responsibility extends across nine states, not just Cross River. He should use his position to secure benefits for Cross Riverians from across the Niger Delta region, rather than scrambling for what has already been allocated to the state.

    This fund was meant to benefit 50 groups across all three senatorial districts of Cross River State, and it was to come through my office for proper coordination. It is not a Southern Senatorial District project; it is for the entire state.

    I also want to clarify that while two of the groups on the list being circulated are affiliated with a cultural organization I coordinate, I did not submit their names, nor did I authorize the publication of that list. Whoever released it should also provide the full details of the 50 groups that were supposed to benefit.

    I urge all political actors to refrain from politicizing this issue and focus on working together for the good of our people, our party, and our state. Our collective goal should be to empower Cross Riverians and ensure the fair distribution of benefits that rightfully belong to them.

    This is my official position on the matter.

    Signed,
    Rt. Hon. Otuekong Orok Otu Duke
    Cross River State Representative, NDDC