Victor Okon Hails Otu over Timely Presentation of ₦987.8bn 2027 Budget

 Iloke Egbe

The Chairman of the Cross River State House of Assembly Service Commission, Hon. Ntufam Victor Okon, has commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for the timely presentation of the state's 2027 Appropriation Bill, describing the development as an important step towards effective budget implementation and accelerated development.

Okon said the early presentation of the budget would provide sufficient time for the systematic implementation of Government programmes and projects, while strengthening the process of translating policy objectives into tangible benefits for the people.

He made the remarks while assessing the budget preparation and presentation process, which involved inputs from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Government Offices, Boards and Commissions.

According to him, the involvement of the various Government institutions demonstrated a coordinated approach to budget preparation and reflected the administration's efforts to ensure that Government priorities were adequately captured in the fiscal plan

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The Commission chairman noted that a well-prepared budget, presented within the appropriate timeframe, was essential to effective planning, resource allocation and monitoring of Government projects.

He described the presentation as a demonstration of the Governor's commitment to constitutional governance and the established processes of public administration, adding that timely budget preparation would provide the necessary framework for the implementation of Government policies and programmes.

Okon also commended the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, and members of the legislature for their role in handling important matters relating to the state's development.

He stressed the importance of constructive cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of Government in ensuring that the budget received the necessary legislative attention and translated into meaningful development outcomes.

Reflecting on the theme of the 2027 budget, "Budget of Consolidation and Renewed Hope," Okon described the proposed expenditure plan as ambitious, noting that its size and capital expenditure allocation reflected the scale of development expectations associated with it.

The proposed budget, valued at approximately ₦987.8 billion, provides about ₦708 billion in capital expenditure and ₦279 billion in recurrent expenditure, according to figures cited by the Commission chairman.

He said the substantial allocation to capital projects offered opportunities for investment in infrastructure and other development priorities, provided that the funds were effectively managed and projects were implemented in line with the objectives of the budget.

Okon expressed optimism that diligent implementation of the appropriation, effective supervision and prudent management of public resources would help improve service delivery and expand development opportunities across the state. He said the budget's success would ultimately be measured by its impact on the lives of residents, particularly through improved infrastructure, access to public services and balanced development across communities. 

The chairman further urged Cross Riverians to support the Governor reelection including policies and programmes aimed at advancing the state's development, emphasising the importance of public participation and collective responsibility in achieving sustainable growth. He maintained that even development across the state should remain a priority in the implementation of Government projects, so that communities in different local government areas could benefit from public investments.

Okon expressed confidence that effective collaboration among Government institutions, alongside responsible implementation of the 2027 budget, would help advance the state's development agenda and strengthen the delivery of public services.

NUJ Celebrates Florence Oluohu at 60, Hails Her Enduring Legacy in Journalism

Iloke Egbe

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has celebrated the Editor-in-Chief of the Nigerian Chronicle, Lady Florence Oluohu, on her 60th birthday and retirement from active service, describing her career as a remarkable testament to professionalism, resilience, mentorship and excellence in journalism.

The Council, in a congratulatory message issued by its Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, on behalf of the executives and members, commended Oluohu for her outstanding contributions to the journalism profession and her steady rise through the ranks to become Editor-in-Chief of the state-owned newspaper.

Bassey said Oluohu's professional journey reflected years of dedication, competence and commitment to ethical journalism, adding that her achievements had established her as a source of inspiration to women journalists and younger practitioners in the media industry.

According to the NUJ chairman, Oluohu's attainment of the highest editorial position in the newspaper was a recognition of her hard work, professional expertise and unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards in journalism.

"Lady Florence Oluohu has distinguished herself through years of dedication, professional excellence and service to journalism. Her rise to the position of Editor-in-Chief is a testament to her resilience, competence and commitment to the highest standards of our profession," Bassey said.

The Council described Oluohu as a prolific writer and accomplished editor whose editorial judgment, depth of experience and dedication to responsible journalism had contributed significantly to the Nigerian Chronicle.

It also noted that her membership of the Nigeria Guild of Editors underscored her professional standing and commitment to promoting editorial excellence and strengthening journalistic standards. Beyond her accomplishments in the newsroom, the NUJ highlighted Oluohu's contributions to mentoring younger journalists, describing her willingness to share knowledge, offer guidance and encourage emerging professionals as an important part of her legacy.

Bassey observed that Oluohu's impact on the profession extended beyond the stories she had written and the newspaper editions she had supervised, stressing that the values she imparted to colleagues would continue to influence the next generation of journalists.

"Beyond her achievements in the newsroom, Lady Florence has made a lasting impact through mentorship and the example she has set for younger journalists. Her experience and professional values will continue to benefit the journalism community long after her retirement from active service," she said.

The Council noted that Oluohu's 60th birthday and retirement offered an opportunity to reflect on her years of dedicated service, professional accomplishments and contributions to journalism in Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

It further stressed that retirement from active service should not be interpreted as the end of her involvement in the profession, expressing confidence that her wealth of experience, editorial insight and institutional knowledge would remain valuable to the media industry. The NUJ Cross River State Council congratulated Oluohu on attaining the age of 60 and completing her active service, wishing her good health, peace, happiness and a fulfilling retirement.

The Council also expressed the hope that her post-retirement years would provide opportunities for greater personal fulfilment, quality time with family and loved ones, and continued contributions to the development of journalism.

Gov Otu Committed to Welfare, Capacity Building of Civil Servants - C'River CSC Chairman

Iloke Egbe 

The Chairman of the Cross River State Civil Service Commission, Sir Maurice Effiwatt, KSJI, has said that the state Governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is deeply concerned about the welfare of civil servants in the state.

Effiwatt stated this on Wednesday in Calabar while declaring open a two-day in-house training for staff of the Commission employed between 2019 and 2025.

The training, held at the Conference Hall of the Commission, New Secretariat Complex, Calabar, was aimed at enhancing productivity through effective and efficient service delivery to the public.

According to the Chairman, Governor Otu has demonstrated his commitment through various programmes approved to build the capacity of civil servants through training and retraining.

"The importance of training cannot be over-emphasized. There is no human endeavour that does not require training, be it artisans or professionals," Effiwatt said.

He noted that it is important at different times for one to appraise what has been done and analyse the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, in order to re-equip oneself for the challenges ahead.

He commended the organizers, resource persons and staff of the Commission for the initiative.

Some of the topics treated at the training included Overview of Training Objectives, Civil Service Structure, Ethics and Traditions delivered by Dr. Dominic Ogbeche; Customer Service and Service Delivery in the Public Service and Discipline and Appeals handled by Dr. Isang Ofem; Security in Government by Mrs. Patience Egbe; and Rules on Appointment and Leaving the Service by Mrs. Patricia Duncan.

Others were Registry Management by Mr. Noel Agbojor, Financial Regulations in Government by Mr. Fabian Abeng, Conflict Management in Government by Mr. John Johnny and Communication in Government by Dr. Iloke Egbe.

Highlight of the event was the formal induction of staff into the service by the Chairman and the signing of the Oath of Secrecy by the inductees.

FOLUR-NG HAILS OTU’S GOVERNANCE, PLEDGES EXPANDED INTERVENTIONS IN CROSS RIVER

 Iloke Egbe

The Food Systems, Land Use and Restoration Nigeria (FOLUR-NG) Project has commended the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his people-oriented governance and policy framework, which it says are creating an enabling environment for effective project implementation, increased productivity and sustainable development.

The commendation was made during the fourth-quarter 2026 meeting of the State Project Management Committee of FOLUR-NG, held at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations office, opposite Navy Field, State Housing Estate, Calabar.

The meeting provided an opportunity for stakeholders to review the project's performance throughout 2026, assess progress across its various components and deliberate on strategies for improving implementation and strengthening interventions in beneficiary communities.

Speaking at the meeting, the National Project Coordinator, Professor Oladapo Akinyemi, praised Governor Otu for demonstrating visionary leadership and pursuing policies that prioritise the welfare and interests of the people.

Professor Akinyemi disclosed that the project's interventions in Cross River State would be doubled, attributing the planned expansion to the supportive disposition of the state government towards development initiatives.

He also announced plans to strengthen the capacity of project staff to improve their competence and ensure effective and efficient service delivery to the people of Cross River State.

The National Project Coordinator further commended the Ministry of International Donor Coordination (MIDC), under the leadership of its Commissioner, Elder Dr. Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata, for its commitment to facilitating development partnerships and ensuring effective coordination of donor-supported projects.

According to him, the level of progress recorded in Cross River State demonstrates the importance of strong institutional support and effective coordination in achieving development objectives.

He observed that if both Cross River and Ondo states, where FOLUR-NG operates, had commissioners demonstrating the same level of commitment attributed to the MIDC Commissioner, the project would have recorded even greater progress.

In his response, the Commissioner for International Donor Coordination, Elder Dr. Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata, reaffirmed the Cross River State Government's commitment to meeting its obligations to FOLUR-NG and other development projects operating across the state.

He disclosed that approximately 95 per cent of the support commitments agreed upon by the state government for the project had been fulfilled, assuring stakeholders that the outstanding contributions would be completed within the coming days.

Lukpata emphasised that the government remained committed to honouring its obligations and supporting development interventions designed to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development in communities across Cross River State.

He stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between government institutions, development partners and project implementation teams in achieving shared development goals.

Earlier, the State Project Coordinator, Mr. Clatus Ogbiji, presented an overview of the project's progress and achievements across its various components.

Among the achievements highlighted were efforts to promote gender-equitable land rights and land titling, as well as capacity development programmes targeting male and female smallholder farmers.

He also highlighted capacity-building initiatives for extension officers, local government area facilitators and community facilitators, who have been equipped with the knowledge and practical skills required to develop, implement and monitor integrated land-use and investment plans.

According to him, these interventions are designed to promote sustainable land management, environmental conservation, improved agricultural productivity and better livelihoods for beneficiary communities.

Ogbiji further reported progress in the implementation of participatory forest restoration action plans in priority local government areas, underscoring the project's commitment to restoring degraded landscapes and strengthening sustainable natural resource management.

The meeting also featured deliberations on subcontracting arrangements, fund disbursement procedures, co-financing protocols and guidelines for the utilisation of resources under the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

These discussions were aimed at strengthening financial accountability, improving coordination and ensuring that project resources are deployed effectively to achieve the intended development outcomes.

The Project's Chief Technical Adviser, Professor Adebayo Shittu, also presented an overview of FOLUR-NG, outlining its objectives and implementation framework.

The meeting was attended by members of the FOLUR-NG Project Management Committee and Permanent Secretaries from relevant ministries, departments and agencies of the Cross River State Government.

The fourth-quarter meeting reaffirmed the importance of government commitment, institutional coordination and strategic partnerships in advancing sustainable food systems, responsible land use, forest restoration and inclusive economic development in Cross River State.

Ex-Guardian Deputy Bureau Chief Anietie Akpan Laid to Rest in Akwa Ibom

 Ex-Guardian Deputy Bureau Chief Anietie Akpan Laid to Rest in Akwa Ibom 

The remains of former South-South Deputy Bureau Chief of The Guardian newspaper, Mr. Anietie Ben Akpan, has been laid to rest in his hometown of Ekpeneobo, Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, amid glowing tributes to his professionalism, integrity and contributions to journalism.

The funeral and thanksgiving service, held at the community playground in Ekpeneobo, attracted journalists, family members, friends, community leaders and members of the Living Faith Church, who gathered to pay their last respects to the late media professional.

In a condolence message, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, described Akpan as a thoroughbred journalist and a friend of Cross River State who made significant contributions to the development of the state through his professional practice. Governor Otu, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Mr. Nsa Gill, noted that although the deceased hailed from Akwa Ibom State, he lived and worked in Cross River for many years, making Calabar his second home.

The Governor commended Akpan for upholding the ethics of journalism and distinguishing himself through balanced reporting, objectivity and fairness at a time when sensationalism was becoming increasingly prevalent in the media.

"His reports gave voice to the Niger Delta, projected our developmental challenges and celebrated our people," Otu said.

He added that Cross River State had lost not only a friend but also a bridge between the state and the media, as well as a patriotic citizen who deployed his pen to promote good governance and development.

The Governor urged the bereaved family to draw comfort from the enduring legacy of the deceased, noting that his professional achievements and positive impact would continue to inspire younger journalists.

He also prayed for the peaceful repose of Akpan's soul and for God to grant the family the strength to bear the loss.

In his sermon, the Akwa Ibom State Pastor of Living Faith Church, Pastor Tunde Olaghende, admonished Christians to live exemplary lives, make meaningful contributions to society and leave enduring legacies that would speak positively for them after death.

The service featured tributes from colleagues, associates and well-wishers, who described the late journalist as a consummate professional, a humble personality and a man deeply committed to the welfare of his community.

President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, described Akpan's death as a painful loss to the journalism profession.

Abdullahi, who was represented by the Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Archibong Bassey, said the deceased was a dedicated media professional whose contributions to journalism and commitment to the dissemination of information remained part of his enduring legacy.

"Beyond his professional accomplishments, Anietie was a respected colleague and a friend whose presence and relationship with others will be deeply missed. 

His passing has left a void that will be difficult to fill," the NUJ president stated.

Also paying tribute, former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Commissioner and Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission, Aniedi Ikoiwak, described Akpan as a balanced and objective reporter whose professional conduct earned him respect.

Ikoiwak, who was Akpan's schoolmate, recalled that they sat on the same bench on their first day in secondary school before reconnecting later in their careers, with Akpan pursuing journalism while he served in INEC.

According to him, their professional relationship provided opportunities to exchange news and share information, further strengthening a friendship that had endured over the years. He described the deceased as a jolly good fellow and an open book whose reports were so balanced that readers could hardly identify any personal bias. Ikoiwak urged practising journalists to emulate Akpan's commitment to fairness, objectivity and professional integrity.

Akpan served The Guardian for many years as a leading media voice in the South-South region, earning recognition for his incisive coverage of politics, governance and development issues across the Niger Delta.

He is survived by his wife, children and other members of his extended family.

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong : When a First Timer Exceeds Expectations

Inyali Peter 

Last week, the Senator representing Cross River South, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, once again drew the Senate’s attention to the worsening erosion and landslide crisis in Calabar and neighbouring communities, continuing a pattern of advocacy that has become a defining feature of his representation. The Senate responded by calling for the immediate release of ecological funds to help Cross River tackle the problem, which threatens lives, homes and livelihoods.

The Senate identified Atakpa, Edim Otop, Ikot Effangha Mkpa, Nyaghasang, Ikot Anwatim, Nasarawa/Bacoco, Akai Effa, Bayside and Summit Hills among the affected areas. Anansa was also listed as a community where continuing landslides have damaged properties and displaced residents.

For a first-timer, Sen. Asuquo has undoubtedly exceeded expectations as his three years representation has been nothing short of impressive. He has built a reputation of consistently drawing national attention to critical issues affecting his senatorial district and indeed the state since assuming office in 2023. 

From the deplorable condition of the Calabar–Itu Road and the slow pace of work on the project to the recurring erosion crisis in Calabar, he has continued to use his position to seek solutions. He has also raised concerns that has led to serious actions on the Calabar–Oban–Ekang Road, erosion in Nassarawa and Ikot Nkebre, and killings and boundary disputes in Odukpani.

At home, he has facilitated projects, grants, scholarships and employment opportunities for his constituents and others. In Abuja, he has sponsored motions and bills on issues of national importance. As the youngest senator in the 10th Assembly, his record reflects an effort to connect legislative work with the everyday concerns of the people he represents.

Governor Bassey Otu has found in Sen. Asuquo a partner in the effort to move Cross River forward. Their respective efforts also highlight the importance of cooperation between the state government and its representatives at the national level in pursuing projects, attracting federal support and addressing the state’s development needs.

Higher federal allocations and increased internally generated revenue alone cannot meet every development need of the state. Governor Otu has an ambitious agenda for the people, but debt servicing, salaries and inherited pension and gratuity obligations place considerable demands on available resources. Attracting funding and support from other sources is therefore not only essential but a necessity.

This is where sustained legislative advocacy becomes important. A motion in the Senate can draw national attention to a problem, but consistent engagement with the relevant ministries, agencies and government officials is often necessary to secure the desired outcome. A functional state lobby group could help coordinate these efforts, track commitments and ensure that Cross River’s requests receive the attention they deserve.

Other members of the National Assembly representing Cross River can build on this what Sen. Asuquo has done by working together to pursue the state’s common interests. Beyond raising motions, they can maintain pressure on relevant federal agencies, follow up on proposed interventions and collaborate with the state government to turn opportunities into tangible benefits for the people. A coordinated effort would give the state a stronger voice in Abuja.

Sen. Asuquo has proven how persistent advocacy can bring local concerns to the national stage. As he continues his work, greater collaboration among Cross River’s federal lawmakers could help extend the reach of these efforts and improve the state’s chances of securing the support it needs.

John Owan Enoh and the Making of a Road Deal

inyali Peter 

The Ikom–Etomi–Agbokim Waterfalls Road has received a fresh boost following the release of the first tranche of funding for its emergency reconstruction. The development is welcome news for communities whose commercial activities depend on the road, as well as efforts to improve access to one of Cross River State’s most famous tourist attractions, Agbokim Waterfalls.

The Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Owan Enoh, announced the development after securing an agreed funding arrangement with the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Under the arrangement, releases were scheduled from September to December to enable the commission to fund the project and facilitate the contractor’s return to site.

The intervention reflects the importance of sustained engagement in addressing infrastructure challenges. The Minister had committed to monitoring the agreed releases and ensuring that the funding arrangement translated into visible work. He has now confirmed that the September allocation has been released, the NDDC has paid the contractor and the contractor has acknowledged receipt of funds.

Work is expected to resume once the rains subside and weather conditions permit. This is the kind of purposeful engagement that turns government commitments into tangible progress for the people. The state government cannot fund every road project across Cross River alone. Leaders at all levels must therefore complement Governor Bassey Otu’s efforts by attracting federal support and pursuing interventions that benefit their communities. The Minister has demonstrated the value of this in many fronts.

The road’s importance to commerce cannot be overstated. Farmers need reliable access to markets for their produce, traders depend on efficient movement of goods, and local businesses require better connectivity to reach customers and suppliers. Poor road access can increase transportation costs, delay deliveries and limit commercial opportunities. Reconstructing this corridor would help ease these constraints and strengthen economic activities across the communities it serves.

There is also a tourism dimension to this project. Agbokim Waterfalls is one of Cross River’s most famous tourist attractions, drawing visitors to its remarkable landscape and cascading waters near the Nigeria–Cameroun border. Better road access would make visits more convenient, support tourism-related businesses and create opportunities for local residents who provide transport, accommodation, food and other services. The road is therefore not merely a local infrastructure project; it is an investment in the state’s economic and tourism potential.

Besides, the Minister’s intervention also highlights the value of collaboration in public service. Securing funding for a project involving different government institutions requires engagement, negotiation and persistent follow up. The participation of the Federal Ministry of Finance and the NDDC, alongside the contractor’s response, shows how coordinated efforts can move an infrastructure project closer to implementation.

Beyond any doubt, he deserves commendation for pursuing the funding arrangement and continuing to monitor its implementation. His commitment to tracking subsequent releases and the contractor’s return to site is important. All hands at this point must be on deck to sustain the momentum to see the reconstruction through to completion.