Paradise News

Tag: Cross River State

  • One Year In Office: IPAC Congratulates Prince Otu, Raises Questions on Impact of Gov’s Achievement on the People, others

    One Year In Office: IPAC Congratulates Prince Otu, Raises Questions on Impact of Gov’s Achievement on the People, others

     

    The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Cross River State chapter has congratulated Governor Bassey Otu on the occasion of his one year in office celebration.

    IPAC in a statement by its Chairman, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon on Thursday, said celebrating one year in office was proper, adding however that the Council would wish to know “the key achievements of your administration in the past year, and how have they impacted the lives of Cross River state citizens.”

    IPAC which is an umbrella body for all political parties in the state raises other pertinent questions such as;

    “How do you plan to address the lingering issue of unpaid salaries and gratuities to civil servants and pensioners in the state?

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    “What strategies have you implemented to boost the state’s economy, and what are the results so far?

    “How do you intend to tackle the challenges facing the health and education sectors in the state?

    “What is your administration’s stance on the conduct of local government elections, and when can we expect it to take place?

    “How do you plan to ensure inclusive governance and representation for all citizens in the state, regardless of political affiliation?

    “What measures have you taken to address security concerns and ensure the safety of citizens in the state?

    “How do you plan to promote transparency and accountability in government operations and expenditure?

    “What initiatives have you implemented to empower youth and promote entrepreneurship in the state?

    “How do you plan to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable development in Cross River State?

    “What is your administration’s policy on infrastructure development, and what projects can we expect to see in the coming years?

    “How do you plan to foster a stronger relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government to ensure effective governance?

    “These questions can help stimulate a constructive dialogue with the Governor and promote accountability, transparency, and inclusive governance in Cross River State,” he said.

  • Stakeholders Solicit Awareness Campaigns Against SEA, H, SGBV Incidences

    Stakeholders Solicit Awareness Campaigns Against SEA, H, SGBV Incidences

    Stakeholders battling the disturbing rate of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment around educational institutions and workplaces have advocated for massive enlightenment campaigns to sensitize the populace against the menace.

    According to them, such aggressive campaigns have become imperative to educate the vulnerable population of existing legislations meant to checkmate such excesses.

    Speaking in Calabar during an interview with journalists, Chairperson of Network To Sexual Abuse NETCUSA, Comrade Ukeme Ekong stressed that such a step would go a long way in curtailing incidences by arming the masses with the necessary information needed to tackle the issue.

    Ekong averred that “The challenge at hand is that most of our people are not even  aware of this and this promotes the culture of silence thereby encouraging them to continue in their dastardly acts”.

    Read Also: Brencare Foundation Distributes Free Sanitary Pads To Teenage Girls In Cross River

    Also speaking, the state coordinator, of the Association of NGOs Working with Orphans and Vulnerable Children (AOON), Asi Archibong opined that awareness campaigns need to be extended to the hinterlands where sexual abuses and exploitations are prevalent to stem the increase.

    Asi maintained “We need to scale up the level of awareness with regards to available legal means to protect the vulnerable population and prosecute offenders. Such awareness will also serve as a deterrent to potential culprits’.

    Asi posited that” creating awareness is key to spreading the clear message of zero tolerance for all forms of violence against women and girls. It’s also key to informing victims of their rights and the support services available to them”

    In her reaction, the gender focal officer, Ministry of Health, Cross River State, Felicia Ayim said plans are underway for a massive enlightenment exercise across the three senatorial districts as a means of scaling up efforts targeted at tackling sexual exploitations, abuse, harassment and all forms of gender-based violence.

  • NDDC Commissioner, Orok Duke, Distributes Relief Materials To Flood Affected Communities In Cross River

    NDDC Commissioner, Orok Duke, Distributes Relief Materials To Flood Affected Communities In Cross River

     

    The Commissioner representing Cross River on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) board, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has begun the distribution of relief materials to flood affected communities in the state.

    Speaking on Wednesday while delivering hundreds of relief materials to the Ikot Offiong people of Odukpani local government area and Esierebom community in Calabar South local government respectively, Hon. Orok Duke stated that the exercise was an interim intervention to ease the stress of the people.

    “We are targeting few communities that are really stressed. It is the beginning of more things to come. I am saying this strictly because at NDDC now we are more open. We are going to move to Obanliku and Ogoja where we heard there’s an invasion by the Ambazonians from Cameroon. We have refugees there.

    “We want to established certain areas that we cannot overlook again, and Ikot Offiong community is going to be one of them. This is 24 years without the Ikot Offiong people being settled. We intend to add value to what this present government is doing, and I can reveal here that Ikot Offiong issue is one of those pressing issues.

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    “On our own part at NDDC we are going to insist that all those parts that have been neglected and are still suffering, including the people of Ikot Offiong, will be taken care of. To a large extent, this problem with be taken care of by this government and also with us supporting,” Duke said.

    The Commissioner who was moved by the plight of the people, personally donated the sum of N500,000 to them, promising that he would do more.

    Receiving the items on behalf of the Ikot Offiong community, His Excellency Etubom Eyoma Nya Asuquo, thanked the NDDC and the Commissioner for the gesture.

    Nya Asuquo revealed that they had been neglected by previous administrations, even as the people were suffering. He stated that governor Bassey Otu had promised them during the campaigns that their problem would be a thing of the past.

    “We have indeed started noticing that it would soon be a thing of the past. The last person who gave us this type of relief materials here was the governor’s wife herself. She was touched by the plight of the Ikot Offiong people. We are so happy that you too have remembered us. God will bless you,” he said.

    On her part, the women leader of Ikot Offiong, Mrs Atim Effiong Okon, expressed gratitude to Hon. Orok Duke and prayed for God’s blessings upon him and the NDDC.

  • Brencare Foundation Distributes Free Sanitary Pads To Teenage Girls In Cross River

    Brencare Foundation Distributes Free Sanitary Pads To Teenage Girls In Cross River

    No fewer 100 teenage girls in seven secondary schools in Calabar the Cross River State capital on Wednesday received free menstrual hygiene pads from Brencare Foundation and partners.

    The gesture was in commemoration of the 2024 menstrual hygiene day with the theme: ‘Together for a #period friendly Cross River State’.

    The event which took place at the Women Development Centre, Parliamentary, had students had students drawn from the Special Education Centre Secondary School, UNICAL International Demonstration Secondary School, Government Secondary School Akim, The World of Promise High School, Holy Child Secondary School, Margaret Ekpo Secondary School, and Government Secondary School Lagos Street.

    Speaking, the Programme Manager at Brencare Foundation, Ms Rachel Idim, stated that menstrual hygiene day which is observed across the world, highlights the importance of menstrual health which must be recognised as the complete physical, mental, and social well-being of women and girls in relation to their menstrual cycle.

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    She explained that Brencare Foundation works to ensure that Cross River sees girls beyond menstrual period, and also come up with policies that support women and girls during menstruation by sharing free sanitary pads to girls in public schools and work places.

    Idim added, “for us at Brencare Foundation over the years we’ve also tried our possible best to implement this same project in various communities in northern, central and southern senatorial districts of Cross River State. Everyday for us at Brencare Foundation is a day to talk about this issue about girls. We have the good health project where we talk about menstruation.

    “We also train girls on how to make usable sanitary pads. We’ve been to Obubra, Obudu, Yala and other local government areas in the state.

    “I wish to thank our partners for this project – Cross River State Ministry of Women Affairs, Mediatrix Development Foundation, Calabar Mums, Orange Tables and Prime Progress.”

    In her address, the keynote speaker, Nurse Akama Perfecta Eteng took the participants on the topic: ‘Understanding Menstrual Health and Hygiene’, in which she highlighted some difficulties encountered during menstruation such as temporary weight gain and a feeling of heaviness due to accumulation of water in the body, headaches and cramps, painful or heavy feelings in the breast, feeling of irritability, among others.

    She also explained the potential risk of poor hygiene and how to dispose a used sanitary pads or a tampon.

    The event featured spoken words, games, presentation of gifts/certificates, panel conversations and shared experiences amongst students on how Cross River State can be made a period friendly society. Part of what was highlighted in the discussion was that sanitary pads should be distributed to girls just as condoms are being distributed to boys; there should be public toilets; more sensitisation among others.

    Meanwhile in an interview session, Mrs Brenda Effiom Akpata, Founder of Brencare Foundation, emphasized on the need to celebrate the event, stating that it is the stepping stone to motherhood.

    “This symposium is very important to us in Brencare Foundation because for the past seven years, we have been consistent in commemorating menstrual hygiene day.

    “Before we started, there was little conversation about menstrual hygiene awareness. We started and we were so glad other NGOs joined and we now have more advocates. As an organization, we will continue, we will not relent to ensure that girls, teachers, government, NGOs, everyone is involved in the conversation around menstrual hygiene management,” she said.

  • Partnership Between NDDC, State Government and Security Agencies Makes Cross River Safest State in South-South

    Partnership Between NDDC, State Government and Security Agencies Makes Cross River Safest State in South-South

    Positive results are achieve when people come together to work for a common goal. This exemplifies the synergy that exists among the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the Cross River Government and Security Agencies in the state.

    Cross River Representative on the board of the NDDC, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke on Monday donated solar lights to the state police command, having carried out similar gestures to other security agencies in the state.

    The NDDC Rep who was received by the Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Grimah was informed that Cross River has the lowest crime rate in the South-South geo-political zone.

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    Cross River State’s recognition as the state with the lowest crime rate in the South-South geo-political zone is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the police force and the proactive efforts of the NDDC, led by Rt. Hon. Orok Duke. The recent installation of solar lights at the police headquarters and other divisions has further enhanced the security infrastructure in the state.

    This collaborative effort, combined with the effective governance of Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has brought immense pride to the state and serves as a model for other regions to follow. Kudos to CP Gyogon Grimah Augustine, Hon. Orok Duke, and Governor Bassey Otu for their exemplary leadership in creating a safer and more secure Cross River State.

  • Cross River Commissioner for Environment Celebrates Children’s Day

    Cross River Commissioner for Environment Celebrates Children’s Day

    Dear Cross Riverians,

    On this special occasion, let us celebrate the joy, innocence, and boundless potential that children bring into our lives. Children are the future, the hope, and the light of our world. Their laughter, curiosity, and creativity remind us of the beauty and wonder that exists in every moment.

    Today, let us reaffirm our commitment to nurturing, protecting, and empowering every child. Let us create a world where every child has access to education, healthcare, safety, and love. Let us listen to their voices, support their dreams, and guide them towards a brighter tomorrow.

    To all the children out there, you are cherished, valued, and loved. Your uniqueness, your energy, and your dreams inspire us to be better, to do better, and to create a world where you can thrive and flourish.

    Read Also: Rt. Hon. Orok Duke Celebrates Children’s Day, Emphasizes Education and Healthcare

    Furthermore, let us strive to protect our environment and ensure its sustainability so that it can support generations that will come after us.

    Happy Children’s Day!

    Hon. Moses Osogi,
    Commissioner for Environment,
    Cross River State.

    27 May, 2024.

  • Rt. Hon. Orok Duke Celebrates Children’s Day, Emphasizes Education and Healthcare

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke Celebrates Children’s Day, Emphasizes Education and Healthcare

    As Nigeria marked Children’s Day on May 27th, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, the Cross River State NDDC Representative, joined in the celebrations, emphasizing the crucial role of education and healthcare in shaping the future of the nation. He called on parents and community leaders to prioritize these areas to ensure a bright future for every child.

    “We have a task as parents to give our children the education they deserve,” Duke said. Reflecting on the challenges and uncertainties of the future, he underscored the enduring wisdom of the Biblical adage, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he grows up, he will not depart from it.” This, he stressed, remains a guiding principle in nurturing well-rounded individuals.

    Duke highlighted the critical responsibility parents and society have in molding the future through their children. “We have a duty to mould the future, and this future will be reflected through our children,” he noted. “The foundation of their upbringing must be given proper credence if we must make meaningful progress.”

    Expressing his commitment to education and healthcare, Duke stated, “For me, I place great premium on education and healthcare delivery.” He believes these are the cornerstones of a thriving society and essential for the well-being and development of children. “I leave my doors open to meaningful engagement that will better the lives of the children,” he added, encouraging others to adopt the same approach.

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    Duke’s message resonated with many as he emphasized the importance of starting efforts to improve children’s lives immediately. “You too can do the same, and the time starts now,” he urged. This call to action is a reminder that improving children’s lives is a collective responsibility that requires immediate and sustained efforts from everyone.

    The Cross River State NDDC Representative also spoke about the need for community involvement in supporting children’s education and health. He advocated for collaborative efforts among schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to create an environment conducive to children’s growth and development. “Community support is vital in ensuring our children receive the best education and healthcare possible,” Duke said.

    Duke further called on policymakers to prioritize funding and resources for educational and healthcare programs. He believes that investing in these areas will yield significant long-term benefits for the country. “Our government must allocate adequate resources to education and healthcare to secure the future of our children,” he emphasized.

    In his address, Duke acknowledged the efforts of teachers, healthcare workers, and caregivers who play an integral role in children’s lives. He praised their dedication and hard work, noting that their contributions are essential to the success and well-being of the younger generation. “We must appreciate and support those who are at the forefront of educating and caring for our children,” he said.

    Concluding his Children’s Day message, Duke reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of children. He pledged to continue working towards policies and initiatives that enhance educational and healthcare systems in Cross River State and beyond. “I will remain steadfast in my commitment to our children’s future,” he declared. “Together, we can build a better tomorrow for them.”

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke’s Children’s Day address serves as an inspiring call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize education and healthcare. His commitment and advocacy highlight the critical role these sectors play in nurturing the next generation and ensuring a prosperous future for Nigeria.

  • Governor Otu to Champion Student Empowerment at Cross River Student Leaders Conference 2024

    Governor Otu to Champion Student Empowerment at Cross River Student Leaders Conference 2024

    The Cross River State Government, through the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, plans to host the Cross River Student Leaders Conference 2024, which aims at fostering a culture of service and capacity development among student leaders. The event, themed “Empowering Student Leaders: Fostering a Culture of Service and Capacity Development,” plans to be held on Friday 31st May 2024, at the Prof. Eyo-Ita House in Marian, Calabar.

    According to Comr. Enyam Joseph-Kelvin the Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, the Executive Governor of the state, and his deputy, Hon. Peter Odey-led administration is committed to nurturing leadership skills among young people of Cross River indigenization and residency as a vital component for the state’s future economic, political, social and cultural growth/development.

    In his remarks, Comrade Enyam Joseph-Kelvin, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, stated that this event is part of the event organised to celebrate their Excellencies remarkable one year in office as Governor and Deputy. He also highlighted the importance of the conference as a platform for engaging student leaders in meaningful dialogue on service-oriented leadership using their Excellencies as a key Example of Service Oriented leadership. “This conference is a testament to our commitment to developing future leaders who are equipped with the necessary skills and values to drive positive change in our society,” he said.

    The conference plans to inculcate a call to action for all participants to take the lessons learned back to their respective educational institutions and communities, ensuring the ripple effect of the empowerment program resonates throughout the state and beyond.

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    Representatives from various organizations and media outlets, including ARISE News, AIT, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Sparkling 92.3 FM, the Calabar Business School, the Girls Empowerment Initiative, and the Livy Shaw Foundation, plan to be in attendance to support the initiative.

    The conference will feature a notable lineup of dignitaries and speakers including: Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar the chief of general staff to the governor, state Commissioner for Education Stephen Odey, Ekpenyong Akiba Esq. the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties. Hon. Justin Atiang Bashel of Science and Technology ministry, Commissioner for Finance Hon. Mike Odere, Commissioner for Youth Development Hon. Odum Ijom Ukam, Esq, commissioner Of Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Edet, Rt. Hon. George O’Ben-Etchi, Ph.D the Chairman, Cross River State Forestry Commission, Amb. Chris Lekan, President of CRID, Hon. Stanley Boyce Nsemo, Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey, Chairman, Chairman House Committee on Education, CRSHA, Mr Great Ogban, DG, MEDAN, Comr. Uchenna Moses, SUG President, University of Bolton, Olivia Shaw-Lovell the CEO of Livy Shaw Foundation, Mr John Collins Idim the CEO of Canaan Business School, Efio-Ita Nyok a Development Practitioner, Mr. Oyo Effiom of the Guru Foundation, Dr. Andy Ukweni a security expert, Miss Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke the SA on Gender Mainstreaming, Emmanuel Awor of Metabrigde Supplies, Miss Rachael Bassey, Mr Efanga Etim of MAAG and a host of others.

  • Governor (Senator) Bassey Edet Otu: “We don’t need another hero”

    Governor (Senator) Bassey Edet Otu: “We don’t need another hero”

    “We don’t need another hero”, Is the title of an iconic song written in 1976 by the late singer, Tina Turner (1939-2023). A part of the lyrics of the song goes thus:

    Out of the ruins,
    Out of the wreckage,
    Can’t make the same mistake this time;
    We are the children,
    The last generation,
    We are the ones they left behind.

    And I wonder when we are ever gonna change,
    Living under the fear, ‘till nothing else remains.

    We don’t need another hero,
    we don’t need to know the way home,
    All we want is life beyond Thunderdome.”

    This particular song talks about love and compassion and further espouses the need for fighting for one’s right and beliefs. Tina Turner tells us a story about the yearning for freedom by a people, far and away from a present dystopia and how a chosen hero comes along and leads his people to victory – in ‘Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.’

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    From my perch, I can easily discern the comportment,determination and compassion of Senator(Prince)Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor that we voluntarily and unanimously chose to lead us out of the present darkness in Cross River State. Nothing happens without a reason.

    I wish to hazard an informed guess in a bid to decipher, unravel and simplify our expectations and understanding of Our Governor, from the ongoings (so far) within the past one year. Let me reveal the methodology so far employed, by giving an insight in the Holy Book. It is all about the power of silence. Especially, when sharing every bit of our lives on social media is the norm. That is His Excellency’s secret formula.

    Proverbs 13:3, says; ‘he who guards his lips, guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.’ It’s a strategic guide for life. It is a truism that power and purpose don’t need immediate recognition from the crowds, they flourish in the quiet, in the unseen moments where your faith, determination and actions align towards your God-given purpose. Matthew 6:1 admonishes us to always guard our plans and protect them from evil eyes and naysayers. A focused leader would strive in an atmosphere where his plans can grow, like when Noah built his Ark in silence. His visible and discernible actions are already speaking louder than his words. The masterpiece will manifest – the signs abound.

    Everyone who embarked on this journey with, ‘Sweet Prince’, in our quest for equity, fairness and justice, in the socio-political firmament of Cross River State; who is a patriot and not a tainted ethnocentric bigot and who has gleaned through the ‘delicious and sumptuous’ economic packages that await us all, would gladly keep the faith. We should remember how, in unison, we gathered our loins, took the leap of faith, paid the price and snatched the victory.

    We are now witnesses to a new dawn;a consequential dismantling and demolition of old and worn out prejudices and an extension of our frontiers, with all of us singing, ‘Anchors Aweigh’. As the tide from the new spring continues to help us to heal and consolidate, I would urge us to remember that sweet melody, from our departed heroine, that reminds us that in such a season of sweetness (Res ipsa loquitur) – We don’t need another Hero.

    Rt. Hon. (Otuekong) Orok Otu Duke
    Commissioner/CRS Representative,
    N.D.D.C.

  • Investigation: Cocoa Allocation Committee Allegedly Hid Over 500 Hectares Of Cocoa Plots

    Investigation: Cocoa Allocation Committee Allegedly Hid Over 500 Hectares Of Cocoa Plots

    …Calls For Committee’s Sack Heighten

    By Obi Ojong

    An independent Verification Committee’s investigation has revealed that the Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee led by Cosmas Ebori Nku hid well over 500 hectares of cocoa plots for its own selfish interest.

    It was also alleged that the committee engaged in all sorts of malicious and underhanded schemes to short change the landlord communities, government and the generality of Cross Riverians.

    It will be recalled that Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, the Secretary to the State Government, inaugurated a 9-man Verification Committee led by Mr Asim Odu, his Special Assistant on Media, and saddled with the responsibility to investigate into purported infractions in the just-concluded cocoa allocation exercise that left landlord communities and the larger majority of Etung people livid.

    It was revealed that during a joint meeting summoned at the behest of the Secretary to the State Government on May 14, the Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee admitted to hoarding over 400 hectares of cocoa plots, against the Verification Committee’s submission of over 500 hectares, a situation that lend credence to the massive protests that greeted the just-concluded cocoa allocation exercise.

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    The Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee, at the meeting, it was also gathered, begged for mercy from the State Government for negating its ‘People First’ mantra in the entire cocoa allocation process, a situation the SSG expressed dismay and growled seriously against it.

    Prof. Enoh’s brush-off response to their plea indicates serious danger to the Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee members, as he clearly left their fate in the hands of Governor Bassey Otu, who is expected to return to the State any time soon.

    Another source close to the Cocoa Allocation Committee, who pleaded to be anonymous, said in the course of the exercise, about 6 blocks of cocoa plots were taken by each members of the Allocation Committee who are a natives of the cocoa landlord communities, while 2 blocks were given to members drawn from other parts of the State.

    The recent exposure has tripled the already existing acrimony and generated outcry from people of the Etung local government area, especially the Cocoa Landlord Communities, with a greater number requesting for the sack of the Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee.

    Mr. Zeal Ekure, leader of the Bendeghe-Ekiem (a landlord community) protest, said the 500 hectares of cocoa plots Nicodemusly cornered by the Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee could have been able to empower over 500 youths in the area, however, regretting that the Committee’s insatiable quest for wealth blighted its realization.

    “We cannot continue to elect those with anti-people disposition to serve in a people-centred government. They will continue to work at cross purposes. The recent unsavoury revelations of the Committee’s dealings are a textbook example of what I’m saying. Government must wield the big stick in addressing the situation, no matter whose ox is gored.”

    Eric-Obasi Ogar, from Etomi community in Etung LGA, lamented that “the Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee’s stealthy decision to reserve over 500 hectares of cocoa plots for its selfish interests, amidst other underhanded dealings is a clear indication of greed and runs foul to the ‘People First’ agenda of the present administration.

    “Government must not condone such infractions. Of course I know Governor Bassey Otu’s no-nonsense approach to addressing such issues. I implore the State Government to relieve the Committee members of their appointments with immediate effect.”

    Nse Egbe, Akare Nkom, Etta Eju, from Ajassor, Effraya and Agbokim communities, respectively, stated that the Committee’s dealings are damning for everyone and dampen the credibility of the present administration’s ‘People First’ agenda.

    The public is watching to see what punitive measures Governor Otu would take to address the issues before him.