Gov Otu Swears in Barr Orok Okon as New Head of Service, Assures Retirees of Defraying Outstanding Gratuities

Governor Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore the pride of the Cross River State Civil Service, with a firm assurance to continue offsetting outstanding retirees’ gratuities. He made this pledge on Monday during the swearing-in of the new Head of Service of Cross River State, Barr. Orok Okon, at Government House, Calabar.

Barr. Orok’s appointment as Head of Service on September 19 followed the retirement of Dr. Innocent Eteng the previous day, paving the way for his elevation as Head of Service.

Describing the Civil Service as the “superstructure” for implementation of Government policies, Governor Otu recalled its golden years when, between 2010 and 2013, no fewer than eight states visited Cross River to understudy its organic structure and operational efficiency. He lamented the decline that followed but assured that his administration is committed to restoring its lost glory.

“As we reposition the Civil Service, my administration will continue to prioritize workers’ welfare. Monthly salary payment remains sacrosanct, promotions are being implemented as and when due, the yearly incremental step has been restored after eleven years, and, very importantly, we have put plans in place to continue defraying outstanding retirees’ gratuities,” the Governor stated.

He further charged the new Head of Service to entrench professionalism, fairness, and competence across the workforce. He stressed the importance of proper record-keeping, digitization, and continuous Staff training, noting that service delivery must be driven by equity, qualification, and due process rather than nepotism or bias.

In his response, Barr. Orok Okon expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to fully implement the Governor’s charge.

“The charge you have given me, both publicly and privately, shall be carried out to the letter with your support, as usual,” he assured.

Okon promised to soon brief the State Executive Council on details of the reform agenda for the Civil Service and pledged close collaboration with Permanent Secretaries and Directors. While acknowledging that a few challenges remain, he maintained that the service is still largely filled with diligent and hardworking officers who will be supported and rewarded.

“I thank Your Excellency, I thank everyone, and I say God bless this administration and God bless Cross River State,” the new Head of Service concluded.

How C’River Won AFSNET 2026 Hosting Rights — Gov Otu

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu has offered insights into how the State secured the hosting rights for the African Sub-Sovereign Government Network (AFSNET) 2026, disclosing that the feat was owed largely to the state’s growing reputation for integrity, stability, and good governance.

Governor Bassey Otu, speaking to newsmen at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, upon his return from Algiers where the bid was secured, said the development will further put Cross River State on the global spotlight.

The AfSNET Conference is Africa’s premier investment and policy platform for sub-sovereign Governments, creating opportunities for states and regions to attract investors, strengthen partnerships, and share Governance best practices.

“This is nothing short of divine intervention,” the Governor remarked. “We put in a bid like other sub-nationals, but the respect Cross River has earned both within and outside Africa made the difference. It shows the World believes in us and our capacity to deliver.”

Governor Otu stressed that hosting the AfSNET Conference would bring enormous economic dividends to the State. He revealed that between 40 to 70 sub-sovereign leaders across Africa will converge on Cross River for the summit, accompanied by business delegations, investors, and policy experts.

“In terms of economic impact, it will be massive. After they have come and gone, this State will never be the same again,” he assured, noting that the conference will create opportunities for new trade partnerships, investments, and job creation.

The Governor explained that his administration is already upgrading infrastructure and hospitality facilities across the three senatorial districts to ensure the State meets global standards ahead of the event. He emphasized that preparations would not be limited to Calabar but extended to iconic destinations like Obudu, ensuring all parts of the State benefit.

“This is about showcasing the entire State. When it comes to preparation, Cross River never takes second place. We will be ready,” he affirmed.

Governor Otu further linked the international recognition to his “People First” agenda, highlighting ongoing reforms in food security, energy, health, and youth empowerment through digital skills as part of the broader vision to position Cross River as a hub for sustainable investment.

He called on citizens, businesses, and development partners to support the State in ensuring a successful hosting.

Ita Giwa Partners NUJ to Establish Beatrice Bassey Ita Tourist Media Centre and Memorial Foundation in Calabar

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in partnership with Senator Princess Florence Ita-Giwa, has concluded plans to officially establish the Beatrice Bassey Ita Tourist Media Centre and Memorial Foundation in Calabar, in honour of the late veteran journalist, broadcaster, and media icon, Mrs. Beatrice Bassey Ita.

The initiative is designed to immortalize Mrs. Ita’s invaluable contributions to journalism, broadcasting, and public service, while also creating a vibrant hub for research, mentorship, tourism, and professional development for Journalists, students, researchers, and media enthusiasts.

Announcing the vision for the  project in Calabar, the National President of NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, said the centre will stand as a beacon of knowledge, inspiration, and cultural heritage.

He was accompanied by the Vice President of the union Zone F, Comrade Dokubo Opaka; NAWOJ National President, Hajia Aisha Ibrahim; Chairman of NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey and his Executive members, as well as the Special Adviser to the Cross River State Governor  on Public Affairs, Comrade Nsa Gill, during a courtesy visit to Senator Ita-Giwa at her Calabar residence.

According to Yahaya:"The Beatrice Bassey Ita Tourist Media Centre and Memorial Foundation will provide access to books, archives, multimedia resources, tourism experiences, and training opportunities, all aimed at inspiring the next generation of communicators and storytellers. 

Through this project, NUJ seeks to preserve the legacy of Beatrice Bassey Ita as a trailblazer who dedicated her life to journalism and the empowerment of women in the media.”

The NUJ President further noted that his visit coincides with the Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Investigative Journalist Award, scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, an annual award instituted to celebrate excellence in journalism and honour the memory of the late media icon.

In her remarks, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa described the NUJ President’s presence in Calabar as both historic and a homecoming, noting that the project is a befitting tribute to her late mother.

She recalled her mother as a woman of rare character, discipline, and foresight who combined firmness with love, and whose passion for education, community service, and moral uprightness greatly influenced her family and society at large.

Senator Ita-Giwa added:“My mother used her pen and profession to build bridges. She believed deeply in truth, justice, and fairness, values that continue to guide her children and all who came in contact with her. 

"The establishment of this centre will serve as a place of learning, tourism, and reflection, where young people, Journalists, and researchers can draw inspiration from her legacy of integrity, resilience, and service to humanity.”

She further assured that she would make available all her mother’s works, artefacts, and memorabilia to enrich the new centre.

The NUJ delegation, led by its President, later visited the tomb of the late Mrs. Beatrice Bassey Ita, at Mcdonald Street, Calabar South Local Government, where prayers was offered in her memory.

All is Set for Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Investigative Journalist Award as NUJ, NAWOJ Presidents Arrive Calabar

All is Set for Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Investigative Journalist Award as NUJ, NAWOJ Presidents Arrive Calabar

Iloke Egbe 

The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahaya, and his counterpart from the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, has arrived in Calabar ahead of the Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Investigative Journalism Award scheduled to hold on Saturday in Calabar Cross River State.

The Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Investigative Journalists Award, instituted in honour of the late media icon,  to celebrates outstanding Journalists who demonstrate courage, diligence and integrity in their work.

Speaking on Friday at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport on arrival, the NUJ President Alhassan Yahaya said their presence was to honour the invitation of distinguished Senator Florence Ita-Giwa and to celebrate Journalists who have proved themselves worthy in investigative reporting.

“We are here on the invitation of Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, first to assure her that we are together, and at the same time to celebrate hard work, perseverance, and Journalists we believe have done wonderfully well in investigative reporting,” Yahaya said.

On the State of press freedom in Nigeria, Yahaya reaffirmed the constitutional role of the Media, urging Journalists to fully utilize existing legal frameworks in holding Government accountable.

“As you all know, we have what we call the Freedom of Information Act, and as Journalists we need to use such laws to ensure that Government is accountable. Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution as amended makes it clear that our duty is to hold Government accountable. At this time, we must remain focused, build the capacity of our members, and equip them with the constitutional provisions, code of ethics and code of practice so that they can do their jobs without fear or intimidation,” he added.

In her remarks, NAWOJ President Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim commended the organisers for reviving the award, describing it as a morale booster for Journalists across the country.

“This is my second time coming to Calabar after 20 years, and the first time I was here I was impressed by the tranquility, peace and hospitality of the people. I have always prayed to return to this State because it has so much similarity with where I come from. I want to commend the organisers and NUJ for rekindling this programme because it tells Journalists that when you work hard, at the end of the day you will be appreciated,” she said.

While receiving the delegation at her residence, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa assured them of her continuous support and partnership for initiatives that promote quality journalism.

She commended the unions for their role in strengthening democracy through investigative reporting and pledged to continue standing by Journalists in their efforts to hold leaders accountable.

The Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Investigative Journalist Award Committee chairman, Comr. Anietie Akpan expressed excitement on the successful arrival of the NUJ and NAWOJ Presidents including Zonal Officers, stating that the event is already very successful.

On his part, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs Comr Nsa Gill affirmed that with the arrival of the national President the event is 100% successful, adding that the owners of the event are on ground. 

Some Journalists present include Comr. Okpaka Dokubo Zonal Officer NUJ zone B, the State chairman NUJ Cross River State Council Comr. Archibong Bassey, State Nawoj chairman, Comr Rekpene Uket, and across section of Journalists in the State, including members of the NUJ State Executive Council.

Nutrition is not Political Issues, it's in Rural Communities and Needs Organic Approach - Hilary Bisong

Iloke Egbe SPC 

The chairman Cross River State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Nutrition and Food Security RT. Hon. Hilary Bisong has expressed excitement on the level of commitment of the Governor His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu on issues of food and Nutrition in the State, adding that it's work in process that is aimed at putting Cross River first in the nutrition map in Nigeria. 

He disclosed this during his remarks while declaring open a breakfast meeting with Chief Executives and key stakeholders on the adoption of child Nutrition Fund and the implementation of 6 months paid maternity leave in Cross River held at the State planning Commission conference hall, New Secretariat Complex Calabar.

He called on UNICEF, CS-SUN and other stakeholders to support the State Government in her desire to domesticate the production of most of the vital supplements needed to address malnutrition using calafarm which already has equipments, human resources and in a good location. Adding that Cross River State is not like any other State in Nigeria as the State strive to lead in the fight against malnutrition and poverty using system approach. 

According to Mr Bisong, the present administration doesn't want to spend public money in away that it will not give value to the people hence, the desire to promote locally sources and alternative to reduce the cost of imports and charges to promote sustainability. 

In her contribution, the Board of Trustee Chairman, Civil Society Scaling up Nutrition in Nigeria Dr. Mrs. Mbang Ada expressed the Board appreciation to the State for the positive commitment shown to fund Nutrition activities including the money released to march-fund Nutrition. That whatever led to the return of the money back to Government needs to be discussed and addressed for the benefit of the State and to enhance the participation of the State in assessing the Child Nutrition Fund which has much value to add. 

On her part, the Commissioner Ministry of Women Affairs Hon. Dr. Edema Irom advocated for the establishment of home gardens to address malnutrition and poor handling or processing of food. While the Commissioner Ministry of Health Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk reiterated the reduction in the number of Board room meetings for increase funding of activities at the grassroots level or direct beneficiaries. 

Highlights of the meeting was presentation on objectives of the meeting by CS-SUN program Officer Mr. Ambrose Avhesor, strengthening Child Nutrition Fund in Cross River State by the Executive Secretary CS-SUN Mr. Sunday Okoronkwo. The event also featured goodwill messages from the Director General, State Primary Healthcare Development Agency Dr. Vivian Mesembe Otu and from the SA Budget Office represented by the Permanent Secretary Dr. Peter Uklala. 

Dignitaries in attendance were Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Food Security and Focal Person on Nutrition Hon. Dr. Edem Okokon Offiom, the Head of Service Obol Dr. Innocent Eteng represented by Mr Okoi Ofem, the Vice Chairman Chief Executive Officer SPC Pastor Dr Bong Duke represented by the Permanent Secretary Mr. Kingsley Ndem Eyibio who gave a welcome remarks.

The was also witness questions and answers, vote of thanks and group photograph.

CROSS RIVERERIANS LIVING WITH DIABETES ISSUE SOS TO GOVERNOR OTU OVER INSULIN CRISIS AND YEARS OF NEGLECT

Patients’ Network demands urgent Government action as rising costs push many to the brink

The Network of Persons Living with Diabetes in Cross River State has sounded a distress call to His Excellency the Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, urging him to take immediate action to address what they described as an “unfolding health crisis” in the State.

In an open letter signed by the group’s coordinator, Comrade Bernard Enyia, the Network appealed to the Governor to tackle the spiralling cost of insulin and the lack of state-backed support for diabetics, which they say has already cost many lives.

Comrade Enyia, himself battling diabetes alongside prostatitis and Bell’s Palsy, said his survival so far has been sustained by the sacrifices of family, friends, and colleagues. But he warned that thousands of other Cross Riverians suffering from diabetes complications do not have the same support systems.

“Many have died, several others are dying, and many more will continue to die because of lack of access to essential diabetes medicines and services,” the letter stated.

The appeal follows a patients’ advocacy campaign staged on 28 August 2024, where members of the Network marched peacefully across Calabar to highlight the insulin crisis and the soaring costs of managing non-communicable diseases.

The group accused successive State Government of neglect and discrimination, pointing out that the Cross River State Ministry of Health has no desk officer for diabetes, no annual programme for prevention or control, and no budgetary allocation for interventions.

“How do you explain a situation where Government provides free immunisation, distributes free mosquito nets, and offers free tests for HIV, TB and leprosy, while diabetics are left to pay to the last kobo? This is injustice, neglect, and insensitivity to a vulnerable population,” the statement said.

The State Health Insurance scheme was also criticised for failing to cover insulin and other key diabetes medications. According to the Network, this exclusion undermines Cross River’s chances of meeting global health targets on universal coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals.

The letter recalled years of advocacy efforts dating back to 2018, during which the group engaged successive Commissioner's of Health. Yet, the prevalence of diabetes has continued to rise with no meaningful State action.

Under Enyia’s leadership, the association has:

Established diabetes clubs in hospitals, institutions, and communities. Donated 300 packs of test strips to health facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organised outreaches to the Police, Immigration, Civil Defence, and FRSC, appointing senior officers as Diabetes Ambassadors. Supported the former First Lady, Dr Linda Ayade, with free blood sugar and BP screening at a public outreach, at his personal expense.

Sustained awareness through radio and television campaigns, workplace screenings, Church sensitisation, and home visits.

Despite these efforts, the group said “there has been no political will to act.”

The network called on Governor Otu to take immediate steps, including: Creating and funding a diabetes desk in the Ministry of Health. Allocating a budget line for diabetes in the upcoming state budget. Expand health insurance to cover insulin and essential drugs.

Training healthcare workers across all 18 LGAs as diabetes educators. Integrating diabetes care into primary health care. Subsidising drugs and compulsory blood sugar/BP testing in hospitals. Providing wheelchairs for amputees. Observing World Diabetes Day annually in the State.

The group reminded Governor Bassey Otu that many of its members are loyal APC supporters who voted for him in 2023. It will be unfair and a display of ingratitude to deprive us of the dividends of democracy,” they argued, urging the Governor to include diabetics in economic empowerment programmes, SME grants, and alternative livelihoods to reduce their financial burdens.

“Even if you cannot empower all of us, you can start somewhere. Your name will be written in gold if you make a difference,” the letter concluded.

CS-SUN in Collaboration with SCFN Commences Tracking of 2025 Budget Performance by MDAs

Iloke Egbe SPC 

The Civil Society Scaling up Nutrition in Nigeria, in Collaboration with Cross River State Committee on Food and Nutrition has commenced tracking of 2025 Nutrition Budget performance by Ministries, Departments and Agencies in the State Civil Service with the aim of adopting empirical and more results oriented approaches in handling and implementation of Nutrition sensitive activities as captured in the State Budget by implementing Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

In an interface with the Permanent Secretary, Cross River State Budget Office Dr. Peter Uklala in his office. He admitted that the Nutrition Budget and activities have been substantially very successful in the first and second quarter of the year compare to previous years.

According to the Perm Sect, there is high possibility that the 3rd quarter will be more engaging with activities as the Governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu has given his words on the scalability of budget releases in favour of Nutrition sensitive programmes. He assured the CS-SUN and SCFN that the Budget Office is ready to give necessary support to the committee and advised the committee to reach out when the need arises.

In his words, the State Director of Budget Mr. Benjamin Williams Ubi welcomed members of the committee, stating that Budget Office will always be willing to support CS-SUNN and SCFN in tracking and monitoring releases to ensure accountability. 

At the Ministry of Information, the Permanent Secretary Mrs. Offiong Ani Offiong advised that proper tagging on Nutrition Information, Education and Communication or publicity activities should be made in conjunction with all the officers that are involved in Budget preparation to avoid conflicts with general orientation activities or rejection by the Budget Office. 

The following Ministries, Departments and Agencies have 2025 budget approvals to carry out Nutrition activities with many gotten budget releases and have successfully implemented some activities from the Budget. There are Ministry of Health, State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Ministry of Agric, Ministry of Environment and State Planning Commission. 

Others include Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry of Youth Development, Ministry of Commerce, Rural Water and Sanitation Agency, Ministry of Education while Ministry of Information have join to increase awareness creation through strategic information dissemination, Education and Communication to key stakeholders in the Nutrition ecosystem.

Across section of members of CS-SUN and the State Committee on Food and Nutrition were in attendance led by the State chairman CS-SUN, including the Permanent Secretary SPC, Mr. Kingsley Ndem Eyibio and members of SCFN.