Tag: Cross River State

  • Rt. Hon. Orok Duke Bags PhD in Media Arts, Hon. Etim Ukpong Hails His Achievements

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke Bags PhD in Media Arts, Hon. Etim Ukpong Hails His Achievements

    The Executive Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, Hon. Etim Asido Ukpong, has extended congratulations to Rt. Hon. Orok Duke on the successful completion of his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Media Arts.

    Hon. Ukpong described this academic milestone as a well-earned recognition of Rt. Hon. Duke’s exceptional contributions to the field of Media Arts, as well as his unwavering commitment to promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

    “As a distinguished leader and statesman, your dedication to excellence and passion for the arts have inspired countless individuals. This degree is a well-deserved acknowledgment of your remarkable achievements,” Hon. Ukpong stated.

    He further expressed confidence that this latest academic feat would propel Rt. Hon. Duke to greater heights, encouraging him to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity in the media arts industry.

    Read Also: Family, friends, associates, Tinkoriko celebrate Rt Hon Orok Duke on PhD conferment

    “May this degree serve as a source of inspiration for you to continue breaking new grounds, and may your legacy continue to inspire future generations,” he added.

    Hon. Ukpong lauded Rt. Hon. Orok Duke for his tireless efforts in mentoring young talents, shaping public discourse, and using the media to advance cultural development in Nigeria.

    He concluded by celebrating the achievement as a momentous occasion, urging the recipient to continue leveraging his expertise for national growth and development.

    “Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement,” Hon. Ukpong stated.

  • Family, friends, associates, Tinkoriko celebrate Rt Hon Orok Duke on PhD conferment

    Family, friends, associates, Tinkoriko celebrate Rt Hon Orok Duke on PhD conferment

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Despite the caliber of individuals that graced the 37th convocation ceremony of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) on Saturday 22 March, 2025, Rt Hon Orok Duke, the Commissioner representing Cross River State in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) stole the show with panache that cladded it in beauty, elegance and class.

    Duke, who was one of those conferred with a doctorate degree, was ubiquitous at the University of Calabar International Conference Center, venue of the event. He was literally the cynosure of eyes because he arguably had the largest number of guests in attendance.

    Among those who came to celebrate with him were family members, friends, associates, media practitioners and members of Tinkoriko, a sociocultural group he founded and nurtured for more than three decades ago. The group was led by its president, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo.

    While others convoked and left the venue unnoticed at the end of the ceremony, Dr Orok Duke’s departure took the 37th convocation to its crescendo. The Tinkoriko group massing in their hundreds, rolled out the drums to celebrate their own to the admiration of everyone around. They had a procession, walking with their patron from the Conference Center to the Main Gate of the University of Calabar, and then assembled at the Amayo Duke School, Efut, where they were treated to a grand reception.

    This elaborate show of solidarity and camaraderie underscores Dr Orok Duke’s immense social capital and his capacity to bring people together for social good. His name resonates very well among youths, especially in Calabar, where Tinkoriko is leveraged to build harmony and ensure peaceful coexistence among youths from various social, cultural and political backgrounds.

    His academic achievement is a testament to his insatiable thirst for knowledge, and one cannot help but congratulate him on this milestone.

  • Breaking: Police officer guns down 3 in Calabar

    Breaking: Police officer guns down 3 in Calabar

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    A police officer attached to the Atakpa Division in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, has shot three persons after he went haywire.

    The incident took place on Sunday morning around the Watt market axis where the police station is located.

    According to eyewitness accounts, the officer whose name could not be ascertained at the time of filing this report, was said to have shown signs of mental instability inside the police station.

    “He was laying outside the station with his firearm. His colleagues were afraid to go close to him. And then he started shooting sporadically into the air. At that moment many of the policemen started running, with some scaling the fence over to the Yoruba line in Watt market.

    “When he stood up, he walked towards the road and then started shooting again. Three persons were hit by stray bullets,” one of the eyewitnesses said.

    Another eyewitness who claimed to live at Garden street, the vicinity of the police station, alleged that “the policeman had taken colos. It’s the effect of the drugs that’s tormenting him.”

    Our correspondent who visited the scene of the incident reports that the area was cordoned off and vehicular and pedestrian movements were diverted.

    When contacted on phone, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Irene Ugbo, confirmed the incident and said that the situation was under control.

    “It’s true it happened. The Inspector came from bit, and all of a sudden he started misbehaving. We don’t know the cause of his irrational behaviour. He started shooting sporadically into the air, and telling people not to come near him. In the process three people were hit. One woman is dead right now, two are in the hospital and in critical condition. The Inspector has been arrested. He’s in our custody,” she said.

  • The Oden Ewa Effect: A Reality Show in the Exhibition of Gratitude by Doctoral Graduands

    The Oden Ewa Effect: A Reality Show in the Exhibition of Gratitude by Doctoral Graduands

    By Ofem Usani Joseph, PhD

    Gratitude is a virtue that speaks volumes about the character of those who possess it. In the academic journey, particularly at the doctoral level, the road is often lonely, rough, and demanding. It requires not only personal commitment but also the support of mentors, facilitators, and benefactors who make the journey bearable and successful. It is within this context that we must appreciate and celebrate The Oden Ewa Effect, a rare demonstration of leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

    For those unfamiliar with this phenomenon, The Oden Ewa Effect is more than just a phrase; it is a revelation  to the impact of a selfless individual who facilitated the completion of doctoral programmes for a group of scholars across Central Senatorial District who might otherwise have been stranded in the murky waters of uncertainty. This is not a mere act of generosity; it is an extraordinary commitment to the advancement of knowledge, a gesture that should be acknowledged, celebrated, and immortalized.

    In a society where many take kindness for granted, it is refreshing to see doctoral graduands publicly acknowledge the man who stood in the gap for them. Gratitude should never be an afterthought; it should be an intentional and dignified response to good deeds. Those who understand the weight of sacrifice recognize that the completion of a doctoral journey is not a trivial achievement. It is an intellectual war, fought with long hours of research, sleepless nights, countless revisions, and the emotional toll of scholarly pursuit. Therefore, those who enable such victories deserve more than just a passing acknowledgment,they deserve profound appreciation.

    Unfortunately, there will always be detractors: those who, either out of ignorance or sheer pettiness, attempt to downplay noble gestures. These individuals, blinded by their own inadequacies, may seek to commonize this grand exhibition of gratitude. However, history has shown that while cynics may talk, greatness remains undeterred. The truth is immutable: those who recognize and appreciate the efforts of their benefactors open doors for greater opportunities, while the ungrateful seal their own fate with arrogance and myopia.

    There is an invaluable lesson here for all, particularly for scholars, professionals, and anyone privileged to receive support in their journey. The true measure of a person is not just in their academic credentials but in their ability to recognize and honor those who played a role in their success. The Oden Ewa Effect should serve as a blueprint for future generations, a clear example of how intellectuals should conduct themselves in the face of great acts of kindness.

    To the graduating doctoral scholars, this act of gratitude is not just about today; it is about setting a standard for those coming behind. You are teaching others that in a world often filled with selfishness and entitlement, true leaders acknowledge their benefactors. You are showing that a good deed, no matter how grand, must not be forgotten.

    It is easy to receive help; it is noble to acknowledge it. The exhibition of gratitude we witness today is not an ordinary event—it is a reality show in its own right, one that should be televised, studied, and adopted as a guiding principle for those who seek success.

    To Hon. Oden Ewa, this is your moment; a well-deserved recognition of your impact. And to those who still fail to see the significance of this, perhaps it is time they learn that greatness is not in individual achievement alone but in the ability to lift others to their destined heights.

    May The Oden Ewa Effect continue to resonate, inspire, and remind us all of the power of gratitude.

    By Ofem Usani Joseph
    NCE(Dist), B.Ed(Hons); M.Ed(Dist); Ph.D(Dist); B.Sc(1st Class)

  • Like Mother, Like Daughter: Delight Ohen Replicates Prof. Susana Ohen’s Feat 28 Years After

    Like Mother, Like Daughter: Delight Ohen Replicates Prof. Susana Ohen’s Feat 28 Years After

    By Blessing Enagu

    In the world of academia, stories of brilliance and dedication often stand out, but few narratives are as compelling as that of Professor Susana Ohen and her daughter Delight Ohen.
    Spanning over two decades, this is a tale of excellence, perseverance and an unbreakable legacy of excellence at the faculty of Agriculture, University of Calabar (UNICAL).

    The University of Calabar 37th Convocation ceremony and 50th anniversary is quite a remarkable day in the academic journey of Delight Ohen, as she convoked with distinction, emerging as the Best Graduating Student of the Department of Agricultural Economics with an impressive CGPA of 4.16. This feat is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

    Twenty-eight years ago, a young, determined undergraduate walked across the convocation stage at UNICAL, earning the coveted title of Best Graduating Student in the Department of Agricultural Economics & Extension, Faculty of Agriculture. That student was none other than Professor Susana Ohen, who, through sheer dedication and intellect, distinguished herself among her peers. At just 23 years old, she set herself on a remarkable trajectory, leading her to become a professor in agriculture and eventually the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at her alma mater.

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    Her journey was not just about personal success but about paving the way for future generations. From her early days as a researcher to her impactful role in academia, Professor Ohen has been an inspiration to students, colleagues, and the entire agricultural sector.

    Twenty eight years after, history has repeated itself as her daughter, Delight Ohen, stands tall, replicating and surpassing her mother’s achievement with distinction at the age of 22.
    She has etched her name in the history of UNICAL, emerging as the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture. Her CGPA of 4.16 speaks volumes of her dedication, resilience, and passion for academic excellence.

    Delight’s choice of career is not by chance but deeply rooted in a passion and love for agriculture. She has always believed in the power of agriculture to drive economic transformation, ensure food security, and create sustainable livelihoods. For her, Agricultural Economics is more than just a discipline—it is a calling and a tool for impact. She has drawn immense inspiration from her mother, Prof. Susana Ohen, having witnessed firsthand how this field has shaped her mother’s success and allowed her to achieve greatness. Seeing her mother’s journey, dedication, and the impact she has made through agriculture, Delight was inspired to walk the same path, determined to make an even greater mark in the field.

    For Professor Susana Ohen, the moment is both emotional and fulfilling. “I feel fulfilled, excited, and grateful to God,” she says. She admits that she had some initial fears when Delight chose to study the same course, especially since it meant being in her professional space. However, she also had confidence in her daughter’s abilities. “She has always put in her best in everything she does,” Prof. Ohen reflects. While she knew Delight would be among the best, she did not expect her to emerge as the very best. This achievement has brought her immense pride and joy.

    Delight on her part is overwhelmed with gratitude to God and her parents for the grace and strong foundation that was laid.

    The story of this mother-daughter duo underscores the power of mentorship, determination, and the impact of a strong academic foundation.

    Delight’s achievement is more than a personal victory; it is an inspiration to younger students, a motivation to peers, and a beacon of hope for those striving for academic excellence. She has demonstrated that with focus, consistency, and the right attitude, greatness is attainable.

    As Delight steps into the next phase of her journey clinging 5 distinctive awards, her mother’s prayer and wish for her are clarity of purpose, open doors of opportunities, and a future filled with greatness. “May her path be illuminated with wisdom, and may she soar to even greater heights in her chosen field,” says Professor Ohen.

    As UNICAL celebrates this extraordinary milestone, the story of Professor Susana Ohen and Delight Ohen serves as an enduring reminder that true excellence is timeless—and sometimes, it runs in the family.

    Congratulations once again, Delight Ohen! The world awaits the impact of your brilliance. Keep shining!

  • UNICAL Honours Akpabio, Kalu, Edu Egwuonwu’s Legacies

    UNICAL Honours Akpabio, Kalu, Edu Egwuonwu’s Legacies

    The President of Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu, Chief Chukwuemeka  Egwuonwu (CEO Peterson  Group) have been inducted into the University of Calabar’s prestigious Hall of Fame.

    The induction ceremony, which was held in Calabar had the wife of the senate president, Mrs. Ekaete Unoma Akpabio, the Acting Governor of Cross River State, Dr. Peter Odey alongside serving members of the national assembly business moguls including Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, Dr Ikechukwu Ukweh CEO Hogis Group and the crème de la crème of society.

    Senator Akpabio, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representative, Benjamin Kalu, who was the 37th convocation speaker, and the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu including the former gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Professor Sandy Onor, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Peterson Group, Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu amongst others were honoured for their contributions to humanity.

    Reacting to the gesture, Senator Akpabio, who thanked the Nigerian President for efforts to enshrine peace in Rivers State with the declaration of a State of Emergency for the warring factions to broker peace, recalled with nostalgia his journey as a student in the University of Calabar.

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    “I have a brand new bus for the Faculty of Law and another for the Student Union Government (SUG) of this university, since I was a former Speaker of the SUG. I encourage you to take your education serious and urged us to support the growth of education and the university. I dedicate this award to the glory of God.”

    Similarly, the former minister, Dr. Edu commended the institution for finding her worthy, saying “it is a privilege to be honoured and I thank God almighty for the opportunity to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of this university that actually built leadership skills in me. I also thank everyone, who has contributed to the height I have attained today in Nigeria especially President Bola Tinubu.

    “On behalf of me and Class 2009 medical students, we are contributing to the completion of the institution’s medical centre. We will not only complete the structures, but we are going to fully provide the equipment needed to function optimally,” she hinted.

    Edu further stated, “I believe very strongly that with the student loans and other interventions of the Nigerian Government to the university, we will have greater, stronger citizens, who will make their impact in society, for the poor, needy, economy, digitization of our nation and its processes. I believe strongly that the future is bright for education in Nigeria.”

    Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Florence Obi, who performed the induction ceremony with the presentation of awards to the distinguished Nigerians, explained that it was the universities way of appreciating the contributions of its alumni to the growth of education and society.

    She added, “we are celebrating 50 years of impactful service to the growth of humanity. Right from 1975 when the University of Calabar was founded, we have graduated nearly 200 thousand graduates, who are leaving their imprints across the globe. These alumni have, in their different fields contributed to development of humanity and Nigeria in particular.”

    Speaking with newsmen, Chief Chukwuemeka  Egwuonwu,  CEP Peterson  Group  who lauded the Vice Chancellor for her giant strides in the University, disclosed that education has made a huge impact on him as a business mogul.

    “I must tell you the truth that education has  deeply widened  my horizon and reshaped my thinking and how I do business, and I’m not stopping anytime soon till I get my Doctorate degree.

    “I want to thank my wife, my children  for all their support, I thank the Vice Chancellor for finding me worthy and honoring me, I’m indeed humbled by his recognition,” he said.

  • Cross River’s Favour Abatang Listed Among 100 Reputable Women of African Descent

    Cross River’s Favour Abatang Listed Among 100 Reputable Women of African Descent

    The African Women Network has named Favour Abatang, Founder and Executive Director of Her Voice Foundation, among its prestigious 100 Women of African Descent, 2025.

    The announcement which was made by the organization on its official website recognizes exceptional women of African descent who demonstrate leadership, integrity, and a transformative impact in their communities and industries.

    In a statement announcing the listing, the African Women Network stated: “We are thrilled to introduce our latest and most prestigious initiative-the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent, a celebration of extraordinary women of African heritage who have exemplified leadership, integrity, and transformative impact.

    “After a rigorous selection process involving hundreds of nominations, we are proud to unveil this esteemed list of 100 women whose contributions have profoundly shaped their communities and industries. These women are role models whose stories of resilience, innovation, and dedication will inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

    Read Also: NUJ Congratulates Her Excellency, Bishop (Dr.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu on induction into UN 1000 African Women Network

    “We’re proud to list Favour Abatang as one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent. As Founder of Her Voice Foundation, she empowers teenage mothers with education and support,” the statement added.

    Listed also in the conpenduim are Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the Republic of Mauritius, Ameenah Gurb-Fakim, MTN Uganda CEO, Sylvia Mulinge, Kwara State First Lady, Olufolake Abdulrazaq, Afrobeat star Temilade Openiyi (Tems), American aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, Girl Hub Africa Founder Guss Tobi Lord-Williams, News Central’s Director of Programs, Tolupe Adeleru-Balogun, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals CEO, Denir Yvonne-Green, CFA Cai-Global and Regulatory Expert, Aisha Amad, MD Prexea Oil and Gas, Folasade Angela-Samuels, Founder of Brila Media, Debbie-Larry Izamoje, Her Network Founder, Nkem Onwudiwe, among others.

    According to the organization, all 100 honorees will be presented with a Certificate of Appreciation at the 6th edition of the Africa Women Summit, scheduled for May 8th – 10th, 2025, at the Concorde El Salam Hotel in Cairo, Egypt.

    The African Women Network celebrates influential African women making significant strides in leadership, development, and advocacy. The organization spotlights exceptional women from Africa, African-American community, Afro-Caribbean, and Afro-Latinx backgrounds who have made significant contributions to social, economic, and cultural development.

  • NUJ Congratulates Her Excellency, Bishop (Dr.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu on induction into UN 1000 African Women Network

    NUJ Congratulates Her Excellency, Bishop (Dr.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu on induction into UN 1000 African Women Network

    The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council proudly celebrates and congratulates Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, First Lady of Cross River State, on her well-deserved recognition and induction into the prestigious UN 1000 African Women Network in New York.

    This global honor is a testament to your unwavering dedication to humanitarian service, social development, and the empowerment of women and girls. Your visionary leadership, compassion, and impactful initiatives continue to inspire hope and transform lives, not just in Cross River State but beyond.

    As a beacon of selfless service and a champion of the ‘People-First’ governance philosophy, you exemplify true leadership, and we are proud to celebrate this remarkable milestone with you.

    May this recognition propel you to even greater heights as you continue to serve humanity with honor and distinction.

    Congratulations once again, Your Excellency!

    Signed

    Comrade Archibong Bassey
    Chairman
    NUJ, Cross River State Council

    Comrade Mike Abang
    Secretary
    NUJ, Cross River State Council

  • Governor Otu Congratulates Rt Hon Orok Duke on Conferment of Doctorate Degree

    Governor Otu Congratulates Rt Hon Orok Duke on Conferment of Doctorate Degree

    The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Rt. Hon. (Chief) Orok Otu Duke, JP, PhD, on the successful completion of his doctorate.

    In a statement, Governor Otu lauded Dr. Duke’s unwavering dedication to scholarship and leadership, describing his latest academic milestone as a testament to his intellectual depth and commitment to service.

    “Dr. Duke’s achievement is an inspiration to many, reflecting his relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence. We celebrate this well-deserved honor and look forward to the continued impact of his expertise on our state and beyond,” the Governor stated.

    Read Also: State of Emergency: ‘Nigeria drifting towards anarchy’ —Obi

    Dr. Duke, a respected political figure, the Honourable Chairman of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, and the Cross River State Representative on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been widely recognized for his contributions to governance, youth development, and sports in Cross River State. His latest academic feat adds to an already illustrious career.

  • Cross River FOMWAN Educates Members on Spiritual Benefits of Ramadan

    Cross River FOMWAN Educates Members on Spiritual Benefits of Ramadan

    As part of efforts to intensify religious activities in the holy month of Ramadan, the Cross River State chapter of the Federation of Muslim Women in Nigeria, (FOMWAN) has organised a lecture to engage the faithfuls  in promoting benefit of Ramadan, Islamic values and education.

    The lecture with the theme “Ramadan for Personal & Social Transformation” held at the Calabar Road Central  Mosque along Watt Market Area of the city.

    Speaking at the event, the Imam of  Ahmaddiyah Central Mosque, Imam Maulvi Akere Abdulhafeez Adeniyi, emphasized the importance of sustaining the teachings and lessons of Ramadan.

    Imam Akere, urged Muslims to continue their commitment to serving Allah and humanity during and even after Ramadan.

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    Explaining the importance of Ramadan in uplifting the spirituality of the Ummah, the Scholar said “On this note, we call on the Muslim Faithful in Cross River State to exemplify the teaching of Ramadan by showing demonstrable commitment to improving cordial relationship, generosity and duty of care to our neighbours.”

    On her part, the Cross River State President and Ameerah of the
    Apex Muslim Women Association, Hajia Lateefah Yahaya-Idinye called on families, especially the Muslim faithful to intensify in their prayers for the country and its leaders during the holy month.

    “Let me summarise by advising the FOMWAN members and the general Muslim audience to abide by the Words of  Allah as written in the holy Qur’an and also the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad SAW regarding Ramadan and other spares of our lives.

    “Doing this will enable us to have a fulfilling and rewarding Ramadan as well as a live a Pius and peaceful here on earth and the hereafter,” she explained.

    Other speakers at the well attended event includes, Hajia Zainab Muhammad and Hajia Hauwa Shuaib (Da’awah officer and her Assistant) who spoke on preparation before, during and after Ramadan; and Benefits of Ramadan back up by Qur’anic verses and Hadith.