Paradise News

Tag: Orok Duke

  • Akpabio Sympathizes with Orok Duke and Wife on Father-in-Law’s Passing

    Akpabio Sympathizes with Orok Duke and Wife on Father-in-Law’s Passing

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has extended his condolences to Rt. Hon. Orok Duke and his wife, Victoria Orok Duke, following the passing of her father, Sir Edem Ubom. Duke serves as the Cross River State representative on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) board.

    The Senate President’s late arrival in Uyo was due to a prior engagement in Umuahia, Abia State, where he attended the 70th birthday celebration of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.

    During his visit, Akpabio acknowledged the depth of their loss and encouraged the family to take solace in the legacy left behind by the deceased. “Grief is a journey that words cannot fully heal, but the memories of a life well-lived bring comfort. Sir Edem Ubom’s legacy will continue to shine through the family he nurtured,” he remarked.

    Read Also: 130th Anniversary: Organizers Highlight Hope Waddel’s Contribution to National Devt

    The late Sir Edem Ubom was laid to rest in Ikot Nkim, Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, Akwa Ibom State, in a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries, friends, and well-wishers who came to honour his memory.

  • Photo Story: Tributes pour in as Rt Hon Orok Duke, family lay father-in-law to rest

    Photo Story: Tributes pour in as Rt Hon Orok Duke, family lay father-in-law to rest

     

    The Commissioner representing Cross River State in the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, on Saturday 28 February, 2025, joined the members of the Ubom’s family to bid final farewell to his father-in-law, Sir Edem Ubom.

    The funeral obsequies conducted by the Methodist Church Nigeria, held at the Shelter Afrique Field, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

    According to the biography of the deceased, Sir Edem W. Ubom KJW was born on 25 June, 1942 into the family of Chief Wilson Nduke Ubom of Nung Ubom in Ikot Nkim and Mary Nyong Etim of Nung Essiet, Ikot Obio Edim both in Ibesikpo Asutan Ekpe local government area of Akwa Ibom state. He passed on peacefully in his sleep on the 3rd of January 2025 at the age of 82.

    Dignitaries who sent in their condolences included the Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Edet Otu; Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, among others.

    The remains of late Sir Edem Ubom was finally laid to rest in his hometown, Ikot Nkim in Ibesikpo Asutan Ekpe local government area of Akwa Ibom state.

    See photos from the event:

  • Bishop Eyoanwan Otu Commends Canaan Table Tennis Club for Historic Performance in Tunisia

    Bishop Eyoanwan Otu Commends Canaan Table Tennis Club for Historic Performance in Tunisia

    Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, the wife of the Governor of Cross River state, has commended the Canaan Table Tennis Club for their outstanding performance at the African Table Tennis Club Championship held in Tunisia. The club, representing the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), clinched a bronze medal, making Nigeria and Cross River State proud on the continental stage.

    The Canaan Queens, the female team of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, emerged as one of the top performers out of 54 participating countries in the tournament. Their remarkable performance has been celebrated as a historic achievement for Nigerian table tennis and a testament to the talent and dedication of the players.

    In a statement released to the Chairman on Tuesday, Bishop Otu praised the team for their hard work, resilience, and determination. Known for her passion for the empowerment of the girl child and her commitment to humanity, Bishop Otu highlighted the significance of the Canaan Queens’ success as an inspiration to young girls across Nigeria.

    “The Canaan Table Tennis Club has made us proud once again. Their performance in Tunisia is not just a victory for Cross River State but for the entire nation. As someone who is deeply passionate about the empowerment of the girl child, I am particularly inspired by the Canaan Queens, who have shown that with determination and hard work, girls can achieve greatness in any field,” Bishop Otu said.

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

    She also commended the club’s management and coaches for their role in nurturing the talents of the players, adding that their success is a reflection of the state’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment.

    Bishop Otu also acknowledged the support of her husband, Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu, whose administration has consistently encouraged sports development in the state. She noted that the governor’s commitment to providing the necessary resources and motivation for athletes has played a significant role in the team’s success.

    “I must also appreciate my husband, His Excellency Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his unwavering support for sports and youth development in Cross River State. His encouragement has greatly inspired the players, and this victory is a testament to his vision for a state where young people can thrive and excel,” she added.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke Chairman of the Canaan Table Tennis Club and Cross River State’s representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), had congratulated the team for their superlative performance. He described the victory as a proud moment for Nigeria and Cross River State, positioning the country as a force to reckon with in global sports.

    “This victory once again positions Nigeria as one of the best in the world, both in table tennis and in other sports. We are proud of the Canaan Queens and grateful for the support of the Cross River State government, which has been instrumental in this achievement,” Duke said.

  • Canaan Table Tennis Club Wins Bronze Medal For Nigeria At African Clubs Championship

    Canaan Table Tennis Club Wins Bronze Medal For Nigeria At African Clubs Championship

    …Orok Duke Congratulates Team for superlative performance, says victory is for entire country

    The African Table Tennis Club Championship tournament which took place in Tunisia, has come to a victorious close, with the Canaan Table Tennis Club, representing the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), carted away a Bronze medal, to the admiration of the sports world.

    The Canaan Queens, players of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, made Nigeria and indeed Cross River state proud, as they came top out of the 54 Countries in Africa in the competition.

    Expressing joy over a successful outing, the Chairman of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has congratulated the champions, saying that the victory, once again, positions Nigeria as one of the best in the world, both in Table Tennis and in other sports.

    Read Also: Canaan Queens Record Remarkable Win at Ongoing African Table Tennis Championship

    Orok Duke, Cross River state’s representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, also appreciate the Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu  for the support saying encouragements greatly inspired the players.

    The team is expected back in the country after the week-long sporting event in Tunisia.

  • Rt Hon Orok Duke Hails Canaan Table Tennis Club’s Victory Over Tunisia’s Grappes d’Or in African Clubs Championship

    Rt Hon Orok Duke Hails Canaan Table Tennis Club’s Victory Over Tunisia’s Grappes d’Or in African Clubs Championship

    The Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar has made a remarkable debut at the ongoing 2025 African Clubs Championship in Tunis, securing a commanding victory over Tunisia’s Grappes d’Or de Grombelia. The impressive win places the Nigerian team at the top of their group stage standing.

    The Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke has congratulated the team for their exceptional performance, commending their resilience and skill on the international stage. He expressed confidence in their ability to advance further in the tournament and make Nigeria proud.

    Encouraging the players to maintain their energy and determination, Duke urged them to approach their next match tomorrow morning, the 23rd of February 2025, against Madagascar Women’s Table Tennis Club with the same verve and gusto.

    Read Also: Table Tennis: Canaan Queens arrive Tunisia for 2025 African clubs championship

    He also called on all Nigerians to support the team by following the provided link to watch the live matches from Tunisia https://www.youtube.com/live/bWNYoWM1_k8?si=wKbysBtXEhIV903L.

    Canaan Table Tennis Club was selected by the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) to represent the country at this prestigious championship, a testament to the team’s outstanding talent and dedication to the sport.

    With this strong start, all eyes are now on the Nigerian representatives as they strive to sustain their momentum and compete for the championship title.

  • Retired Table Tennis legend, Offiong Edem, Takes on Coaching Position at US Academy

    Retired Table Tennis legend, Offiong Edem, Takes on Coaching Position at US Academy

    Retired Nigerian table tennis legend Edem Offiong has joined the Texas-based Lonestar Table Tennis Academy in the United States as a coach.

    The five-time Olympian, who announced her retirement after the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, has been described as a valuable addition to the academy located in Austin, Texas.

    In a statement, the academy expressed their excitement: “We are thrilled to announce that five-time Olympian Edem Offiong is joining Lonestar Table Tennis Academy as a full-time practice partner.”

    They welcomed the Nigerian star, noting that her two decades of experience will be invaluable to the academy.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Governor Aiyedatiwa Denies Filing Cyberbullying Case Against Ondo Lawyer, Orders Justice Commissioner To Seek Dismissal Of Charges

    Edem shared her thoughts on social media, revealing her decision to move to the US after retirement to begin a new chapter as a coach.

    “Austin, Texas is where I find my peace. I decided to move to the USA after my retirement to coach young enthusiasts. Coaching has been so rewarding, I must say, and soon we will be known and heard for our good deeds.

    “Thank you to Lonestar Table Tennis Academy for believing in me and giving me this opportunity to grow these young stars. It’s all about passion, and I’m grateful,” she said.

    The former African champion represented Nigeria in five Olympic Games, several African Games and Championships, World Championships, and Commonwealth Championships before retiring in 2024.

    It is important to note that Offiong Edem is one of Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar’s greatest exports. The club was founded by one of Nigeria’s seasoned sports administrators and table tennis icons, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke. He chairs and funds the club until date.

  • Duke Advocates Better Deal for C’River at NDDC 2025 Strategic Retreat

    Duke Advocates Better Deal for C’River at NDDC 2025 Strategic Retreat

    By Our Reporter

    The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is currently holding its 2025 Board and Management Strategic Retreat at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja. This event brings together key decision-makers to discuss a new direction for development in the Niger Delta. Among those leading the discussions is Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, Cross River State’s representative on the NDDC Board. He has been actively advocating for policies and projects that will benefit the state directly.

    The retreat, themed “Repositioning NDDC for Efficient Service Delivery,” aims to evaluate past initiatives, identify challenges, and implement governance reforms to enhance transparency and effectiveness in NDDC’s operations. While topics of discussion have focused on improving service delivery, Orok Duke has stressed the need for fair resource allocation, sustainable infrastructure, and impactful grassroots initiatives in Cross River State.

    In his remarks at the retreat, Duke emphasized the significance of execution and accountability in NDDC projects, stating:

    “It is no longer sufficient to award contracts and inaugurate projects. We must ensure that every initiative is well-executed, properly maintained, and fulfills its intended purpose. The Niger Delta has waited too long for sustainable progress, and it is our responsibility to deliver.”

    Read Also: Gov Otu speaks on alleged rift with some NASS members

    He further advocated for directing more projects and programmes to Cross River State, highlighting the importance of sustaining and completing the commendable initiatives undertaken by Governor Bassey Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State. Duke emphasized that, as an All Progressives Congress (APC) state, Cross River should receive increased support to consolidate these efforts.

    As the retreat continues, Orok Duke remains committed to advocating for Cross River State, ensuring the region receives its fair share of development projects, improved infrastructure, and sustainable economic opportunities. His active participation in the retreat underscores his dedication to translating NDDC’s renewed focus into real, measurable progress for the people of Cross River State.

  • Setting The Record Straight: NDDC Christmas Bonus Controversy

    Setting The Record Straight: NDDC Christmas Bonus Controversy

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

    For clarity:

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

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

    The Fake Beneficiary List: A Smokescreen to Misdirect the Public

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

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

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

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

    Cross Riverians Must Not Be Distracted—Demand Accountability!

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

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

    Cross Riverians, stay focused—demand accountability!

    Signed

    Cross River Rep NDDC Media Team

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    This is my official position on the matter.

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

  • NTTF nominates Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar to represent Nigeria at 2025 African Club Championship

    NTTF nominates Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar to represent Nigeria at 2025 African Club Championship

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) has nominated Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar to represent Nigeria at the 2025 African Club Table Tennis Championship due to take place in Tunis, Tunisia, from 22nd to 24th, February, 2025.

    The selection of Canaan Table Tennis Club for the tournament was conveyed in a letter dated 16th January, 2025 and signed by NTTF Secretary General, Oladayo Abulude. The letter which was addressed to the Club’s Chairman, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, was sighted by our correspondent in Calabar on Saturday.

    “I am directed to convey the federation’s approval for your club to represent the country in the above championship. Kindly signify your intention to register your club for the championship as soon as possible,” the letter reads in part.

    Read Also: You made Nigeria proud, Sports Minister tells Canaan Queens, 2024 African Club Table Tennis Championship Runners up

    Recall that Canaan Queens who represented Nigeria at the 2024 African Club Table Tennis Championship in Libya, finished as runners-up.