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Tag: Cross River State

  • Check Out: Nominees for International Women’s Day Awards and Brunch Celebration in Cross River State

    Check Out: Nominees for International Women’s Day Awards and Brunch Celebration in Cross River State

    The month of March is wholly dedicated to the celebration of women all over the world, which is known as the International Women’s Day celebration, celebrated every 8th day of March.

    On this note, Women in Gender Support Initiative (Wings Initiative), which’s dedicated to women’s inclusion in peace and security, is hosting an award and brunch event in Calabar to celebrate women who are inspiring women in their various fields.

    A nomination platform was released, which lasted for over 7 days. It was circulated and distributed on different platforms for Nigerians to have access to nominate eligible women that best suit the aforementioned categories below.

    The nominations consist of nine categories, they include:
    Lifetime Achiever Award
    Trailblazer Award
    Community Champion Award
    The Global Impact Award
    Young Achiever Award
    He4She Art,Media,Entertainment Award
    Entrepreneurial Award
    Women in Sport Award

    After the expiration of the Google Forms link, it was estimated that 154 nominations were received.

    Below are the names of nominees that were nominated for the categories as stated above by the award committee:

    1. Lifetime Achiever Awards

    Ndodeye Bassey Obongha
    Jane Emmanuel ekpenyong
    Hon Rosemary Archibong

    2. Trailblazer Award

    Temitiope Duker
    Abasioffiong Amos offiong
    Grace Ofem Ibor
    Theresa Akpoke
    Florence Banku Obi

    3. Community Champion Award

    Grace Etim Bassey
    Mary Undebe
    Ndodeye Obongha
    Abenmire Adi
    Grace Ofem Ibor
    Favour Abatang
    Engr. Egan Adat Okon
    Maria Ukpanyang
    Faith Sutu Patrick-Inezi
    Bassey-Anwan Etim Asukwo
    Oguoba Margaret Okim
    Godwin Nmesoma Favou
    Regina Ateb
    Victoria Ekpo

    4. Global Impact Award:

    Abasioffiong Amos Offiong
    Ndoyeye Obongha
    Grace Ibor
    Hannah Bassey Essien
    Affiong Williams
    Nela Duke Ekpeyong
    Grace Ihejiamaizu
    Goodness Odey

    5. Young Achiever Award (18 years to 25 years)

    Asandia Ekeng
    Quincy Archibong
    Afi-Ann Effiom Duke
    Grace Ibor
    Jenny Jacob Adibe
    Godwin Nmesoma Favour
    Ekpo, Deborah Asuquo
    Obiajulu Igwesi
    Alims Blessing Iripia
    Ansa Rebecca Ansa

    6. He4She:

    Arikpo Williams
    Ekpenyong Akiba
    Moses Abam
    Dr. Macfarlane Ejah

    7. Arts, media, and entertainment awards

    Hannah Bassey
    Thelma Plethora Benson
    Oluchi Wonder
    Abenmire Adi

    8. Entrepreneurial Award

    (a notable female entrepreneur in the state) Sarah Funmilayo Kuponiyi
    Patience Uwayen Agweye
    Deborah Usang

    9. Women in Sport Award

    Amishini Ikun
    Ruth Uwana Friday
    Effioanwan Ekpo

    Who will be awarded in each category listed above?

    The event is slated to hold:
    Date: March Wednesday, 27, 2024

    Time: 10:00am

    Location: Beelaj Event Center, Calabar

    Note: to attend event register using the link: https://rb.gy/9lzrtn

  • Rt Hon Orok Duke Extends Heartfelt Ramadan Kareem Wishes to Muslim Community in Cross River

    Rt Hon Orok Duke Extends Heartfelt Ramadan Kareem Wishes to Muslim Community in Cross River

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, the Commissioner representing Cross River at the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and former deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, extends warm and heartfelt wishes of Ramadan Kareem to the Muslim community in Calabar and across Cross River State.

    As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke acknowledges the significance of this period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Ramadan is a time of spiritual growth, compassion, and unity, where individuals come together to deepen their connection with Allah and express solidarity with those less fortunate.

    In his message, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke expresses profound respect for the values of Ramadan and commends the Muslim community for their commitment to faith, self-discipline, and charity during this sacred month.

    Read Also: Nigerian Government Reveals Names Of 15 Alleged Terrorism Financiers, Set To Impose Sanctions

    He states, “May this Ramadan bring you peace, joy, and spiritual fulfillment. As you embark on this journey of fasting and reflection, may your prayers be answered, and your hearts be filled with gratitude and kindness. Ramadan Kareem to you and your loved ones.”

    Rt. Hon. Duke emphasizes the importance of fostering understanding, tolerance, and harmony among the diverse religious communities in Calabar and Cross River. He encourages everyone to use this occasion to strengthen the bonds of unity that make our society rich and vibrant.

    The Commissioner reassures the Muslim community of his continued commitment to promoting inclusivity, understanding, and cooperation among all residents of Cross River. He remains dedicated to working together for the development and progress of the state.

  • Just In: Governor Otu Withdraws Patrick Edi’s Appointment, Appoints Ubi as Clerk

    Just In: Governor Otu Withdraws Patrick Edi’s Appointment, Appoints Ubi as Clerk

    The Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu has approved the immediate withdrawal of Mr, Patrick Edi’s appointment as the Clerk of the House of Assembly.

    Governor Bassey Otu notified the House of Assembly of this decision in a letter dated March 18, 2024, through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, which Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem read on the floor of the House of Assembly on March 19, 2024.

    According to the SSG’s letter, the reversal of the appointment was “based on the fact that the critical criterion for seniority was not highlighted or even made reference to in the recommendations made to His Excellency. Especially, while Mr. Patrick Edi was employed before Mrs Catherine Ubi, her becoming a Director before the other gives her the advantage of seniority.”

    As a result, Barr. Catherine Ubi was appointed the substantive clerk of the Cross River State House of Assembly.

    Matthew Okache
    Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker
    19/03/2024

  • Dredging of Calabar Port, deplorable road, challenges as ICRC inspects facility

    Dredging of Calabar Port, deplorable road, challenges as ICRC inspects facility

    By Christian Njoku

    The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, (ICRC) on Friday visited the Calabar Port as part of its regulatory function to monitor the activities of concessionaires in the Port facility.

    The team which had earlier visited the ports in Lagos first paid a visit to the Nigeria Ports Authority, (NPA) in Calabar to intimate the Port Management on the reason behind its visit.

    Speaking during the interaction, Mr Michael Ohiani, Director General, ICRC said they decided to have an interactive session with NPA and terminal operators to ensure that concession agreements signed with the Federal Government were complied with.

    While commending the NPA, Ohiani said despite the challenges the Port was faced with, it had been able to find innovative ways of of ensuring that the Port was active.

    Read Also: AFC condemns Ningi’s over budget padding allegation

    “We are here as part of our regulatory function to see if terminal operators are complying with their responsibility as entrenched in the concession agreements with the Federal Government.

    “We also like to find out the challenges, taking into consideration the fact that the National Assembly will soon commence its assessment of how the concessionaires are keeping to the terms and obligations of the concession agreements,” he said.

    Responding, Mr Olumati Festus, Calabar Port Manager thanked the ICRC for its commendation while noting that although the environment was challenging, they had to look for other ways to survive.

    Festus said due to the lack of dredging of the Calabar Port channel, bigger vessels were not coming to the Port and it was affecting full utilisation of the Port facilities.

    While talking about the activities and challenges of the terminal operators in the Calabar Port, he complained of the deplorable road network connecting Calabar and other states, making it a nightmare for clients.

    He said some of these issues have affected the operations of the terminal operators and some of them were still owing NPA lease.

    “On financial issues, some of the terminals are still owing us lease fee and some of them hang it on NPA’s inability to dredge the Calabar Port channel so that big vessels can come in.

    “However, the NPA has a debt recovery committee that is pushing to recover most of these debts, including the ones owed by big shipping companies and have recovered much.

    “Before now, we used to have just four to five vessels a month but since I took over, we have started recording 15 to 20 vessels monthly because we now go out to look for vessels and attract them to come to calabar with incentives,” he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the team from ICRC after the meeting with NPA visited three terminal operators in the port to inspect their activities, they include Integrated Logistics Services, (Intels).

    Others include Shoreline Logistics Nigeria Limited, (SLNL) and Ecomarine Terminal Nigeria Limited, (ECM).

    (NAN)

  • C’River Cocoa landlord communities urge Gov Otu to wade into looming crisis in cocoa allocation

    C’River Cocoa landlord communities urge Gov Otu to wade into looming crisis in cocoa allocation

    Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Otu has been urged to urgently wade into the looming crisis over threats by the task force of the state Cocoa Allocation and Rehabilitation Committee to forcefully eject Cocoa farm allottees from their genuinely acquired Cocoa plots allotted to them by the previous administration to avoid breakdown of law and order.

    The call was contained in a report  of a six- man Crisis Management Committee set up by the traditional rulers of landlord communities of the Cocoa Estates made up of Mbume Blocs of clans comprising Abia, Bendeghe Ekiem and Etomi in Etung local government area to investigate the conflicting positions in cocoa allocation in the state government cocoa estates in Etung local government area.

    Presenting the report, chairman of the committee, Ntufam Odu Ndep Moses said findings by his committee shows that reason of encroachment into the cocoa farmlands advanced by the Allocation committee to forceful eject the allottees from the farms was false.

    He said that his committee also found out that the allottees paid the required fees into the coffers of the Cross River State government before they were ushered to take possession of the allotted farms.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Nigerian Army Commander, Two Majors, Captain, 12 Soldiers Killed By Attackers In Delta

    The chairman said the committee’s findings also revealed that the previous administration paid arrears of over N37 million to the cocoa landlord communities to settle 16 years of accrued tents and royalties which were in the thick of the Etung cocoa crisis. a claim he said is verifiable.

    He said statistics available to the committee revealed that only 1,415 out of the approximately 4,552 hectares were allocated.

    The crisis management committee warned that the threat of eviction based on misinformation or ignorance is potentially explosive and therefore urged restraint and strongly advised against any measure that may result to violent clashes.

    “The Traditional rulers of the Mbume Blocs of Clans can hardly overstate the fact that Etung local government area has already senselessly and mindlessly had more than enough bloodletting in a lifetime and nothing else threatens to push us again to that dreaded experience than the conceived eviction if persisted upon”, he warned.

    Ntufam Moses recalled that it was because of government failure to pay rents and royalties to Cocoa landlord communities in Etung that prompted them to sue government vide suit No HE/16/2023 in 2023 and obtained Consent Judgement and secured a new lease for six years approved by the immediate past governor for the settlement of the state government’s rents/ royalties as well as their liabilities while at the same time generating revenue for the state.

    The committee therefore recommended that since the defence of the legitimacy of the six year lease agreed upon by the immediate past administration and the Cocoa landlord communities as reflected in the Consent Judgement has been credibly established, it deserves to be progressively executed.

    Speaking in separate interviews with The Guardian in Calabar, the former state Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resource, Hon Oliver Orok, confirmed the findings of the committee saying that since governance is a continuum, he expect the new government in the state led by Governor Bassey Otu to respect the agreement entered into by the immediate past administration to avert any breakdown of law and order.

  • Federal High Court Calabar Adjourns sexual harassment case against Prof Ndifon, three others

    Federal High Court Calabar Adjourns sexual harassment case against Prof Ndifon, three others

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The Federal High Court sitting in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, on Thursday adjourned a sexual harassment case brought against former Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Calabar, Prof. Cyril Ndifon and three others.

    The case with file no: FHC/CA/FHR/10/2024 was instituted by Gender and Development Action (GADA) and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA). Joined in the suit as defendants were the University of Calabar, National Universities Commission, UNICAL Vice Chancellor and Prof. Cyril Ndifon.

    Recall that the former UNICAL dean is currently standing trial before a Federal High Court, Abuja on four amended counts of alleged sexual harassment and gratification preferred against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

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    When the case was brought up for hearing for the first time before Justice Ijeoma Ojokwu, the presiding judge at the Federal High Court Calabar, some of the respondents were absent in court, hence the judge adjourned the case to 8 May, 2024 while ordering service on all the respondents.

    Speaking with journalists shortly after the adjournment, prosecuting Counsel Doris Nduanusi, said that UNICAL and NUC were joined as defendants because the institutions ought to be accountable as supervisory bodies to prevent such abuses from repeatedly happening. According to her, “this is not a criminal case; it is civil case that will make the universities to be more proactive to create policies to protect the students.”

    The case of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) involving Prof. Ndifon has sparked widespread concern and criticism. The allegations of coercion, sexual exploitation, and threats against students have brought the issue to the forefront of public discourse.

    Co-founder of GADA, Ambassador Nkoyo Toyo said “Our organization, GADA, in collaboration with FIDA (International Federation of Women Lawyers), has advocated for justice and accountability in this matter. This is sponsored by Global Affairs Canada and supported by ActionAid Nigeria.

    “The outcry was deafening as the public demanded answers, and the University of Calabar could no longer turn a blind eye. With our collective pressure, the university finally stepped in, acknowledging the gravity of the situation and vowing to take decisive action. He was suspended and at a later date, arrested. However, as the courts began their pursuit of justice, we pondered: Is this the end of exploitation on Nigerian campuses?

    “As injustice resounds throughout the nation, we stand united in our resolve to fight for a future free from exploitation and Gender-Based Violence. We refuse to be silenced. It is time to rewrite the narrative, reclaim the sanctity of our educational institutions, and ensure that no student suffers at the hands of those entrusted with their care.

    “Together, let us demand accountability, let us demand justice, and let us pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, where every student can pursue their dreams without fear or intimidation. Join us in our quest for justice. Together, we can make a difference.

    “The court hearing represents a crucial milestone in the pursuit of justice for survivors of GBV and the broader fight against impunity and abuse of power. Through collaborative efforts with FIDA and other stakeholders, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that the voices of survivors are heard and that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.”

  • TheInvestigator Hub Seeks Passionate Volunteers In The Niger Delta

    TheInvestigator Hub Seeks Passionate Volunteers In The Niger Delta

    TheInvestigator Hub prioritizes the safety and well-being of its volunteers. Training and support will be provided throughout the volunteer service.

    By Christiana Ofem

    TheInvestigator Journalism Development and Innovation Hub, a champion for investigative journalism and social justice in the Niger Delta, is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join their team.

    In a statement signed by its Director, Comrade Archibong Jeremiah the window is open from 13-22 March 2024.

    Promoting Transparency and Empowering Journalists:

    TheInvestigator Hub is dedicated to uncovering the truth and collaborating with communities to shape a better future.

    They achieve this through investigative journalism, empowering journalists, and strengthening the voices of citizens in the region.

    Volunteer Opportunities Available:

    The Hub offers volunteer positions in various departments:

    News, Communication & Learning

    Programs & Projects

    Finance

    Graphics Design

    Who They Are Looking For:

    TheInvestigator Hub seeks individuals with the following qualities:

    Passion for their mission: Genuine interest in promoting transparency, accountability, and social justice.

    Commitment and reliability: Ability to consistently fulfill responsibilities.

    Teamwork and collaboration skills: Effective collaboration is essential.

    Strong communication skills: Necessary for clear communication and a positive work environment.

    Social media expertise: Understanding of social media platforms and their operations is a plus.

    Positive attitude and willingness to learn: A motivated approach and adaptability are valued.

    Problem-solving skills: The ability to identify and address challenges effectively.

    Qualifications:

    Graduates and undergraduates are welcome to apply.

    Locations:

    Volunteer opportunities are available across the Niger Delta region, including:

    Abia

    Akwa Ibom

    Cross River (Calabar)

    Bayelsa

    Delta

    Edo

    Imo

    Ondo

    Rivers

    Join the Call for Change:

    TheInvestigator Hub offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful journalism and positive social change in the Niger Delta.

    Apply here:

    https://forms.gle/kqYcoLTEB5ugUZf79

  • Nzuko Ndi Abia Inaugurates New Exco in Calabar, Cross River

    Nzuko Ndi Abia Inaugurates New Exco in Calabar, Cross River

    …It’s a new Dawn for our people – PG assures

    By Anthony Uwadiegwu

    Nzuko Ndi Abia Calabar, a community organization representing Abia people living in Cross River State, has inaugurated its new executive members

    The event took place at the Treasure Land Hotel in Big Qua Town, Calabar Municipality, and was marked by the swearing-in of Dr. George Uwaeke as the President General.

    During the inauguration, Elder Nworgu Christopher was also sworn in as the 1st Vice President, while Dr. Okechukwu J. Uwazie assumed the position of 2nd Vice President.

    Other elected executive members that were sworn include  Secretarry Oscar Kalu, Treasurer, Agu Enyinnaya, Financial secretary, Chief Chike Offor, P.R.O, Hon Ifeanyichukwu Kenneth, Welfare I, Uzoma Simeon, Welfare II Emmanuel  Kalu, Legal Adviser, Chief Reuben Onykwerre Esq. amongst others.

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    Prominent Abia indigenes and Igbo chieftains in Calabar graced the occasion, including Barr. Kingsley O. Kalu, the incumbent President General of the Igbo Community (ICC) Calabar. Also present were Barr. (Dr.) Chuks Ebo, Barr. Chris Ogbogu, Prof. Uche Ogbuagu and the immediate past President of Nzuko Ndi Abia, Mazi Innocent Onyeado, among others.

    During his speech, the newly inaugurated President General, Dr. George Umaeke, expressed his excitement about assuming office and declared, “It is a new dawn for Ndi Abia living in Cross River State.”

    He emphasized his commitment to upholding the interests and welfare of the Abia people in the community, promising to work tirelessly for their progress and development.

    Dr. Umaeke also extended his gratitude to the leaders and members of Nzuko Ndi Abia for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the organization.

    He assured them that his administration would prioritize unity, inclusivity, and the promotion of Abia culture and values within Cross River State.

    The Abia Executive Almanac for 2024, which was launched during the event, is expected to serve as a vital resource for members of the Abia community in Calabar.

    It contains essential information about the community, including contact details of prominent individuals, community projects, and upcoming events.

    The presence of Nna Ndi Abia , HRH Eze Fergustine Eme and Nne Ndi Abia Deaconess Chief Mrs Ogbonne Eke was an icing on the cake

    The inauguration ceremony of the new executive members of Nzuko Ndi Abia Calabar was a momentous occasion that marked a new chapter for the Abia people living in Cross River State. With Dr. George Umaeke at the helm as the President General, the community organization looks forward to a bright future of progress, unity and cultural preservation.

  • Int’l Women’s Day: C’River pledges health intervention for women living with HIV

    Int’l Women’s Day: C’River pledges health intervention for women living with HIV

    By Solomon Azu

    The Cross River State Government has  pledged health intervention for the Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDs in Nigeria (ASWHAN).

    The state focal person on Prevention from Mother to Child Transmission PMTCT, in the State Agency for the Control ofAIDS,Mrs Rose Ekum stated this when the state government patner with ASWHAN to commemorate the International Women’s Day 2024 in Calabar.

    The programme which was organized with the support from UN Women and other partners, highlighted the importance of investing in women to accelerate progress.

    While reaffirming the state government’s commitment to supporting people living with HIV in the state, she emphasized the need for inclusive policies and initiatives that uplift and empower women, particularly those facing health challenges.

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    In her remarks, the State Coordinator of ASWHAN, Mrs. Beatrice Ntui who underscored the 2024 theme entitled: “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, called on religious leaders to preach non-discriminatory messages in places of worship, advocating for the right of women living with HIV to marry partners of their choice without stigma or discrimination.

    She also called on government both at national and state levels to include women living with HIV in Social Investment Fund, Conditional Cash Transfers, include women living with HIV in palliative distribution and create employment opportunities for them.

    The state coordinator further called on donor partners to support ASWHAN with funding and technical support to help build the capacity of its members, especially the support groups at the grassroots to enable them engage with their communities and to advocate for their rights.

    “We are also calling on small and medium enterprise organisations to include ASWHAN in their skill acquisition and economic empowerment programmes to train our women in different business skills, support them with small scale grant to boost their businesses.

    “We are calling for support to enable us form cooperatives to empower women economically because women living with HIV are suffering with no source of income and are burdened with children and other dependents to take care of.

    “We want ASWHAN to be engaged in prevention from mother to child transmission programme implementation to prevent any child from being born with HIV,” She emphasized.

    In her address, the  Cross River Coordinator, Network of People Living With HIV/AIDs in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), Mrs Cecilia Ofum, commended Gov. Bassey Otu for his unwavering support for women’s rights and his commitment to placing women in high-esteem positions within his administration.

    She observed that the celebration served as a beacon of hope and solidarity, reaffirming the collective determination to create a more inclusive and equitable society where every woman can thrive and contribute to progress.

    She disclosed that the body is  implementing GC7 in the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory and has advertised for recruitment for Mentor Mothers.

    She called on NEPWHAN &  ASWHAN to work together to better the lot of women in the state.

  • NDDC Rep, Orok Duke, Congratulates Maurice Effiwatt On Appointment As Civil Service Commission Chairman

    NDDC Rep, Orok Duke, Congratulates Maurice Effiwatt On Appointment As Civil Service Commission Chairman

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, Cross River’s representative on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has congratulated Sir Maurice Effiwatt on his appointment as Acting Chairman of Cross River State Civil Service Commission by governor Bassey Otu.

    Effiwatt’s appointment comes on the heels of the suspension of Mr. Uko Inaku from office by the governor.

    In a statement on Tuesday, Hon. Orok Duke said that Effiwatt’s appointment was well deserved, noting that his experience as a retired permanent secretary and dedication to public service are highly regarded.

    “Congratulations on your well-deserved appointment as Chairman of the Cross River State Civil Service Commission! Your experience and dedication to public service are highly regarded, and I have no doubt you’ll excel in this new role.

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    “The Cross River State civil service is fortunate to have you at the helm. Your leadership will be instrumental in ensuring a strong, efficient, and motivated workforce. I look forward to your contributions in promoting a culture of excellence within the state’s civil service.

    “Please accept my best wishes for your success in this important position,” he said.