Paradise News

Tag: Cross River State

  • Natural Disaster Renders Ojuk North/South Residents Homeless and Leaves Many Injured

    Natural Disaster Renders Ojuk North/South Residents Homeless and Leaves Many Injured

    The people of Akamkpa Local Government Area are raising urgent concerns over the massive destruction suffered by Ojuk North and Ojuk South Wards following a devastating natural disaster that recently struck their communities.

    The disaster, which came in the form of a violent windstorm, lasted for over three hours, leaving countless residents homeless. The storm destroyed residential homes, churches, shops, and educational institutions, including both primary and secondary schools, plunging the community into a dire humanitarian crisis.

    In response to this tragedy, the Akamkpa 8th Legislative Assembly, during a session on March 27, 2025, moved a motion of urgent public interest. The motion was introduced by Hon. Vincent Ndifon and seconded by Hon. Thomas Anom, highlighting the severe impact of the disaster on the lives and livelihoods of the affected residents.

    The Akamkpa 8th Legislative Council has unanimously called on the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to intervene swiftly in order to provide relief and support to those affected.

    Read Also: Three Suspected Power Infrastructure Vandals Arrested In Enugu, Says TCN

    Currently, many residents of Ojuk remain stranded outside, lacking shelter and basic necessities.

    Given the scale of the destruction, we urge both the state governments, as well as humanitarian organizations, to provide immediate aid to help the displaced residents rebuild their homes and restore normalcy to their lives.

  • Southern British High School, Calabar, Announces Entrance Examination and Ongoing Admissions

    Southern British High School, Calabar, Announces Entrance Examination and Ongoing Admissions

    Calabar, Cross River State – Southern British High School, a top-tier institution known for its commitment to academic excellence, has announced its upcoming entrance examination scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The school, which prides itself on providing a world-class education, is calling on parents and guardians to enroll their children in a nurturing and academically enriching environment.

    According to the management, application forms for the entrance examination are available on the school’s website (www.sbhs.education) and can also be obtained at the School Admission Office, located at 15, Rotimi Amaechi Avenue, Off Tinapa Road, Calabar.

    In addition to the entrance exam, the school has also announced that admissions are currently ongoing, providing an opportunity for prospective students to join a learning environment that fosters discipline, innovation, and excellence.

    Speaking on the admission process, a school representative emphasized that “Every child is a treasure,” reinforcing the institution’s mission to offer a holistic educational experience that prepares students for future leadership roles.

    For further inquiries, interested applicants can contact the school via 0906 664 8945 or 0818 407 7076.

    About Southern British High School
    Southern British High School is a prestigious institution dedicated to providing a blend of British and Nigerian curricula, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education that meets international standards. The school is well-equipped with modern facilities and a conducive learning environment, making it a top choice for parents seeking quality education for their children.

    Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and enroll their children in a school that values both academic excellence and character development.

  • Photo Story: NUJ Celebrates Gov Otu’s CPS on his birthday

    Photo Story: NUJ Celebrates Gov Otu’s CPS on his birthday

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Cross River State Council has celebrated with Governor Bassey Otu’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr Nsa Gill on the occasion of his birthday.

    Chairman of the state council of NUJ, Comrade Archibong Bassey, on Thursday 27 March, 2025, led members of the union on a surprise visit on Mr Gill to share the joy of the day with him in his office at the presidential lodge, Calabar.

    Members of the union who took turns to express their warm wishes to the celebrant, prayed God to bless and continue to keep him in God health.

    The CPS was the immediate past chairman of NUJ in the state. In appreciation, he thanked the union for honouring him on his special day, while pledging continued collaboration with the fourth estate of the realm.

    See photos below:

  • MLSCN Registrar advises practitioners on role in medical research in Nigeria

    MLSCN Registrar advises practitioners on role in medical research in Nigeria

    …Commends AJU for establishing MLS Department

    By Anthony Uwadiegwu

    The Registrar/CEO of Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), Professor Tosan Erhabor, has asserted that practitioners play a vital role in the healthcare system of the country.

    Erhabor added that the expertise of professionals in the field of Medical Laboratory Science was instrumental in diagnosing diseases, monitoring  treatment outcomes, and advancing medical research in the country.

    The CEO of MLSCN made the assertion yesterday during the induction of the first set of graduands of Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State into the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria.

    Erhabor emphasised that, as trained Medical Laboratory Scientists, they  have a critical role to play in Nigeria’s healthcare system and beyond, depending on where they find themselves.

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    His words: ”Your expertise will be instrumental in diagnosing diseases monitoring treatment outcomes, and advancing medical research.

    “Therefore, I charge you to uphold the highest standards of profession integrity, and ethics in your practice. Remember that your actions and deeds will have a direct impact on people’s lives.

    “As you go forth, I encourage you to stay curious, keep learning, and strive for excellence in all that you do.

    “The Medical Laboratory Science profession is constantly evolving, and it is essential that you stay up to date with the developments and advancements,” he said.

    The Register further commended the university  for taking the bold step of establishing such an important department which he described as no mean feat.

    “As regulators, we are committed to ensuring that medical laboratory science education and practice in Nigeria meet the highest international standards.

    “By adhering to our guidelines, you will not only be ensuring that your graduates are well-equipped to practice, but also that your institution maintains a track record of excellence.

    “I must say we are proud of the progress that Arthur Jarvis University has made in establishing this department and the impact they have made,  We are willing and ready to support in any way that we can,” Erhabor stated.

    Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of Arthur Jarvis University (AJU), Sir Joe Edet, said their induction into the professional body of Medical Laboratory Scientists was  a powerful symbol of their readiness to take on important responsibilities.

    “It signifies your entry into a profession that demands not only scientific acumen, but also integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence

    “Today marks a historic and proud moment for this institution, as we celebrate the graduation and formal induction of our first cohort of Medical Laboratory students into the professional body.

    “This event is not merely a ceremony, but the recognition of years of hard work, perseverance, and commitment to a discipline that is fundamental to modern healthcare,” Sir Edet said.

  • C’River Assembly recommends Immediate Suspension of Four UNICROSS Governing Council members

    C’River Assembly recommends Immediate Suspension of Four UNICROSS Governing Council members

    The State House of Assembly has recommended the immediate suspension of Dr. Emmanuel Ettah, Dr. John Inah Ukam, Professor Mathew Nsing Ogar, and Professor Stephen Ochang, members of the 5th Governing Council of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) for alleged misconduct and abuse of office.

    The House had deliberated on a petition by A. B. Cobham and Associates ( legal practitioners, Corporate and Real Estate Consultants) solicitors to Mr Emmanuel  Eyo, the petitioner.

    Opening debate on the petition, the Leader of the House and Member representing Odukpani State Constituency, Rt Hon Francis Bassey Asuquo, drew the attention of Members to the allegations of gross misconduct against; Dr Emmanuel Ettah, Dr John Inah Ukam, Prof Mathew Nsing Ogar and Prof Stephen Ochang during their tenure as Members of the 5th Governing Council of UNICROSS.

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    The allegations as stated in the petition include; Illegal Tenure Extension and Unlawful Sale of University Property. The petition indicates that Dr. Emmanuel Ettah refused to vacate office at the expiration of their tenure in September 2023 and also sold University Property between May and August 2024, almost a year after the expiration of their tenure. The petition also emphasized that the auctioning of University Equipment was in total violation of the Public Procurement Act and the Bureau of Public Procurement.

    The Lawmakers, in their separate contributions, while deliberating on the petition, viewed the action of Dr Emmanuel Ettah and Co as a total violation of the Extant Laws establishing the University. They further stressed that the State Government’s policy on the non-extension of tenures by public officers is still in force and emphasized that the continued stay in office of the Council Members after the expiration of their tenure is illegal.

    They thereafter adopted the resolution moved by the Leader, Rt Hon Francis Bassey Asuquo(Odukpani ), and seconded by the Deputy Leader Rt Hon Davies Etta(Abi)  which states in part;
    “having unanimously agreed, the House recommends the immediate suspension of Dr. Emmanuel Ettah, Dr. John Inah Ukam, Professor Mathew Nsing, and Professor Stephen Ochang. They are to be suspended from all activities of the University until a proper investigation is carried out by the House Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution.”

    The Speaker, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem reaffirmed the 10th Assembly’s commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and good governance. He assured that the House will carry out a thorough investigation on the matter and thereafter make appropriate recommendations to the Governor who is the Visitor to the University.

  • C’River Govt Vows To Unmask Those Behind Sale Of UNICROSS Assets

    C’River Govt Vows To Unmask Those Behind Sale Of UNICROSS Assets

    The Cross River State Government, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Otu, has commenced an extensive investigation into the alleged illegal sale of about 400 assets belonging to the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) by the institution’s previous council.

    Leading the government’s delegation, the Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor had earlier informed the Vice Chancellor of the Institution that they were in the school at the instance of the governor who had requested thorough investigation into several petitions against the former governing council members over sales of about 400 properties belonging to the institution with following due process. He added that there have also been petitions and complaints over encroachment into the school’s land by neighboring communities.

    After taking an on-the-spot assessment of the schools, Barr. Agbor confirmed to journalists that preliminary findings indicate the allegations are valid. He disclosed that several vehicles and a 500 kV generator listed in the petitions could not be found, reinforcing concerns about the unauthorized disposal of government property.

    To address land encroachment, Agbor stated that the government will take decisive steps, including blocking the main access road to unauthorized construction sites and evicting illegal occupants. He warned that anyone found complicit in the illegal sale or occupation of university land would be held accountable, regardless of their status.

    Read Also: NSCDC uncovers illegal crude oil reservoir in Ondo

    During the on-site assessment, Acting Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, Professor Francisca Bassey, expressed deep concern over the encroachment challenges, noting that the university was originally designed for a much smaller student population. She emphasized that reclaiming the land is critical for expanding infrastructure to accommodate the growing student body and improve learning facilities.

    Echoing the government’s commitment, the Economic Adviser to the Governor, Professor Peter Oti, underscored that land encroachment and abandoned projects negatively impact the state’s economy. He assured that the administration would restore order and ensure that public assets serve their intended purposes.

    The move by Governor Otu’s administration signals a strong commitment to protecting state-owned properties, reclaiming encroached lands, and fostering an enabling environment for academic and economic development in Cross River State.

  • CRSHIA onboards 1500 beneficiaries of Oden Ewa Foundation’s Free Health Insurance Cover

    CRSHIA onboards 1500 beneficiaries of Oden Ewa Foundation’s Free Health Insurance Cover

    The Cross River State Health Insurance Agency has said 1500 indigent and vulnerable residents spread across the 6 Local Government Areas and 66 wards of the Central Senatorial District are currently being captured from the Oden Ewa’s free health insurance coverage sponsored through the Oden Ewa Foundation.

    Recall that February 26, 2025 a formal presentation of Eighteen Million Naira Naira Cheque was made to the Agency by the Oden Ewa Foundation being payment for one year free health coverage for 1500 people.

    The chairman of the Foundation, Hon. Oden Ewa is of the view that any population that is healthy is productive and strongly believes in the healthy population.

    The gesture is to complement the state government’s efforts and key into the indigent enrollee Adoption Initiative of the Cross River State health insurance scheme.

    Read Also: CRSHIA urges well-to-do individuals to emulate Oden Ewa’s generosity

    The State Governor. Senator Bassey Otu, has invested heavily in the health sector, especially providing free healthcare for pregnant women and children under 5, while subsidizing healthcare for those in the formal and informal sectors.

    Hon. Oden Ewa understood the plight of the people and is working to reach out to the vulnerable through various forms of empowerment, hence the move to sponsor health insurance to enable 1500 persons in Central Senatorial District of Cross River State access healthcare freely, for a whole year.

    Beneficiaries were  excited as they expressed gratitude to the State Government for the scheme, while also thanking their sponsor, Oden Ewa Foundation and his team for the gesture.

    Oden Ewa Media

  • Dad bequeath to me spirituality and education – Dr Nyok

    Dad bequeath to me spirituality and education – Dr Nyok

    By Kelvin Obambon

    One of Cross River’s media activists and social change agents, Dr Efio-Ita Nyok, has said that his sojourn into the field of philosophy was not an accident, but rather a decision inspired by his upbringing and family values.

    Nyok stated this at the weekend during a reception organized to celebrate him on his convocation. He was among the very few scholars that were awarded PhDs by the University of Calabar (UNICAL). He was conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Political Philosophy.

    Obtaining a PhD is no mean feat. Dr Nyok deserves to be celebrated. He has demonstrated uncommon courage, determination and resilience in the face of daunting challenges. His continued quest for knowledge reflects the value his family places on education.

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    Dr Nyok disclosed that although he had at some point opted to study medicine, he however did not regret his decision to settle for philosophy. He said that his parents brought him and his siblings up in a Christian way, and studying philosophy would help consolidate his spirituality and thus enable him contribute towards building a just and moral society.

    He thanked family members, friends and former course mates who encouraged and cheered him up while he was running the academic race. He now looks forward to investing his wealth of knowledge in fostering a progressively peaceful and harmonious society that is a sine qua non for social, political and economic development.

  • Calabargist International Women’s Day Event: Meet Our Speakers and Moderator

    Calabargist International Women’s Day Event: Meet Our Speakers and Moderator

    Calabargist, one of Cross River’s top media outlets, will be hosting an online event to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 24, 2025.

    This livestream event will take place on Calabargist’s official Facebook page and will feature distinguished speakers and moderators discussing gender equality, women’s empowerment, and social development.

    Meet Our Speakers
    Dr. Minika Hagan-Okon
    Consultant Family Physician | President, Medical Women Association of Nigeria (Cross River State Branch)

    Dr. Minika Hagan-Okon, an Efik indigene, was born in Lagos and later moved to Calabar. She attended Federal Government Girls’ College, Calabar, before proceeding to the University of Calabar for her medical training.

    During medical school, she took on leadership roles, serving as:

    Assistant Class Representative (Years 1 & 2)

    Treasurer, Cross River Medical Student Association

    Vice President, Cross River Medical Student Association

    After graduating, she completed her housemanship and NYSC in Abuja, where she advocated for better remuneration for corps doctors. She then began her residency training at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), where she was elected Vice President of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), UCTH.

    She is currently:

    President, Medical Women Association of Nigeria (Cross River State Branch)

    Consultant Family Physician, UCTH

    Head of Unit, Federal Secretariat Staff Clinic, Calabar

    Dr. Minika has also earned several certifications, including:
    Leadership & Management – University of Washington
    Project Management – University of Washington
    Health in Humanitarian Crises – London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
    Measuring & Valuing Health – University of Sheffield

    She is currently pursuing a PhD in Family Medicine.

    Beyond her career, she is a wife and mother of two. She enjoys gardening, reading, and playing games.

    Mr. Arikpo Williams
    Development Practitioner | Gender Justice Advocate

    With over 20 years of experience, Mr. Arikpo Williams has worked extensively with gender-based violence survivors, including women, children, and street-involved youth.

    He has held key positions in organizations such as:

    Partnership Opportunities for Women Empowerment Realization (POWER)

    Mothers Against Child Abandonment (MACA)

    African Child Foundation

    Ministry of Humanity & Social Welfare, Cross River State

    As a family court assessor in the Cross River State High Court of Justice, he has worked alongside top judges on cases involving women and children’s rights.

    Williams has contributed to policy development, including:

    Cross River State Gender Policy & Strategic Plan

    Child Rights Law Review

    Family Court Rules & Prosecution Guidelines

    He is a co-author of Future Leaders: Young Persons to Watch and has produced several advocacy films, including:
    Sweet Mother (Gender-Based Violence)
    Save the Children (Child Protection)
    Money Marriage (Child Marriage in Becheve, Obanliku)

    Williams currently coordinates the Coalition for the Promotion of Gender Justice and is a member of:
    Cross River State SGBV Taskforce
    Young Men’s Network Against SGBV
    Civil Society Leadership Network

    Mrs. Aniefiok Aniekan Iton
    Entrepreneur | Logistics Expert | Gender Advocate

    Aniefiok Aniekan Iton is a seasoned expert in marketing, maritime business, international trade, logistics, and leadership.

    Her qualifications include:
    BSc in Marketing – University of Calabar
    MBA – Nexford University, USA
    Executive Diploma in Freight Forwarding & Supply Chain Management – University of Lagos
    Honorary Doctorate in Gender Management – WIGS, Istanbul Egitimler, Turkey

    She is the CEO of Twindynasty Global Limited, Brightflow Logistics Services Ltd., and Brightflow Skills Development & Vocational Institute.

    Her work in entrepreneurship and gender advocacy has earned her numerous awards, including:
    NEPC Award for Active Women in MSME (2022)
    IEOM Award for Maritime Sector Innovation (2024)
    Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Award for Agribusiness Impact (2024)

    Beyond business, she is a mentor, pastor, creative writer, and humanitarian.

    Barr. Ann Alorye Awah
    Legal Practitioner | Gender Consultant

    With 18 years of legal experience, Barr. Ann Awah specializes in gender budgeting, legal drafting, mediation, and human rights advocacy.

    She is the immediate past Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Cross River State Branch and a strong advocate for women’s rights.

    A member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), she has served as:
    Secretary of the Election Committee Board
    Bar Week Committee Member

    She is committed to driving gender justice and policy change in Nigeria.

    Dr. Esther Uzoh
    Senior Lecturer | Gender & Social Work Advocate

    Dr. Esther Uzoh is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Calabar and holds leadership roles, including:
    State Coordinator, Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE)
    State Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Social Workers (NASOW)

    She is deeply involved in education, social work, and women’s empowerment.

    CSP Philomina Modor
    Head of Gender Unit, Cross River State Police Command

    CSP Philomina Modor has led the Gender Unit of the State Police Headquarters in Calabar for 15 years.

    She collaborates with international and local agencies, including:
    UNICEF
    UN Women
    UNFPA
    Ministry of Justice & Social Welfare

    She is an expert in gender-related case investigations and has received multiple awards for her contributions to gender justice and child protection.

    Nnenna Idika Ugbor
    Programs Manager, Gender and Development Action (GADA)

    Nnenna leads initiatives focused on:
    Women’s political participation & leadership
    Gender-based violence prevention
    Economic empowerment for women & girls

    Her advocacy efforts include:
    Supporting the first female SUG President at the University of Calabar
    Advocacy for Affirmative Action & the GEO Bill

    She was awarded “Most Responsive Project Officer” by ActionAid Nigeria for her outstanding work in gender advocacy.

    Meet Our Moderator: Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke
    Gender Advocate | Policy Strategist | Special Assistant to the Governor on Gender Mainstreaming

    Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke is a dedicated gender advocate and policy strategist, currently serving as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Gender Mainstreaming in Cross River State.

    Her work includes:
    Spearheading the Women in Climate Action Bootcamp
    Gender-responsive budgeting & policy reforms
    Training law enforcement on gender-sensitive approaches

    She is a member of global gender advocacy networks and a recipient of multiple International Women’s Day Awards.

    Join Us!

    Date: March 24, 2025

    Venue: Calabargist’s Official Facebook Page (Livestream)

    Stay tuned for an insightful and engaging discussion on gender equality and women’s empowerment.

  • Cross River Gov’t Uncovers Shocking UNICROSS Alleged Asset Looting Scandal – Officials Face Reckoning

    Cross River Gov’t Uncovers Shocking UNICROSS Alleged Asset Looting Scandal – Officials Face Reckoning

    A dark cloud looms over the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) as the Cross River State Government uncovers what appears to be a brazen, calculated looting of public assets by the institution’s former Governing Council members. In a move that has sent shockwaves across the state, officials entrusted with safeguarding the university’s resources allegedly sold off valuable assets to themselves in a secretive, illegal auction.

    For months, these individuals operated in the shadows, reportedly disposing of over 400 government-owned items between May and August 2024. Among the assets was a 500KVA generator installed just in 2015, eight industrial generators, and several official vehicles, including one donated by the previous administration of Governor Ben Ayade for university use.

    What makes this revelation even more damning is the deliberate circumvention of the law. Under the Public Procurement Act, asset disposal of this magnitude requires public advertisement, competitive bidding, and strict oversight. Yet, in this case, there was no advertisement, no open bidding, and no transparency. The sale appears to have been a premeditated ploy—an inside job designed to enrich a select few at the expense of the institution.

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    This isn’t just mismanagement—it is daylight robbery of a public institution.

    Governor Bassey Edet Otu is not taking this lightly. His Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, has issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding: A full inventory of all assets sold; Official approval documents and Governing Council resolutions (if any existed at all); Evidence of public advertisement announcing the auction (or proof that none was ever made); The identities of buyers and their connections to the former council members; and Detailed financial records—who received the proceeds, where the money went, and how it was used.

    Failure to provide these documents will not be treated as mere administrative negligence—it will be regarded as proof of corruption, with consequences to follow.

    This scandal has ignited outrage among students, staff, and citizens alike. The sheer audacity of the alleged looters—selling public property to themselves in plain sight while hiding behind bureaucracy—has fueled calls for probe and prosecution.

    A senior university staff member, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the situation as “one of the most shameful betrayals of trust in UNICROSS history.”

    “This was not just mismanagement—it was outright theft. These people believed they could get away with looting a public institution without consequences. But the truth is out, and they must be held accountable,” the staff member said.

    With the government tightening its grip, the former Governing Council members now stand at a crossroads—either justify their actions with undeniable proof or face the wrath of the law.