Gov. Otu Mourns Veteran Journalist Anietie Akpan, Hails His Contributions to Journalism

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has described the late veteran journalist, Mr. Anietie Akpan, as a man of stature whose contributions to journalism and public life would remain indelible.

The Governor conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family through his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, who visited the family alongside the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs, Mr. Nsa Gill, and the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Cross River State Council. The delegation was received by the deceased’s widow, Mrs. Imaobong Anietie Akpan, and daughter, Etinyene Anietie Akpan.

Obogo said Governor Otu had wished to visit the family personally to condole with them over the loss, but the exigencies of duty necessitated his sending a delegation to convey his message of sympathy and solidarity. He said the Governor had also provided financial support to assist the family with preparations for the final rites of the late journalist.

According to Obogo, the gesture demonstrated Governor Otu’s solidarity with the bereaved family and his recognition of the late Akpan’s contributions to the journalism profession.

He described Akpan as a respected media professional whose passing was a loss to the journalism community, noting that the deceased had made significant contributions to journalism and public discourse.

Obogo said the Governor’s decision to identify with the family reflected his appreciation of the important role journalists play in documenting events, informing the public and contributing to societal development.

He assured the family that the State Government shared in their grief and prayed that God would grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the monumental loss. The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, also thanked Governor Otu for his media-friendly disposition and continuous support for the journalism profession in the State.

She said the gesture would go a long way in supporting the bereaved family and the media community in giving the late veteran journalist a decent farewell. In an emotional response, Etinyene expressed the family’s gratitude to Governor Otu for the thoughtful gesture and support, saying they were grateful indeed for his identification with them at such a difficult time.

She appreciated the Governor for remembering the family and standing with them in their period of grief.

Social Protection is a Matter of Dignity and Justice: Commissioner MIDC

Iloke Egbe 

As a way of stabilizing the collective efforts of the State Social Protection Policy Technical Working Group in line with the people's first mantra of the Governor towards the eradication of Multidimensional poverty amongst Cross Riverians, the State Government in collaboration with UNICEF organized a Two Day Social Protection Policy Technical Working Group meeting for the 3rd quarter of 2026 to evaluate and harmonize progress made identify challenges and next steps.

Declaring the workshop open at Dannic Hotel Ekorinim Calabar, the commissioner thanked the Governor His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for sincerely being committed to the steady development of the State through visionary Policy framework and Institutional approach to promote sustainability of achievements recorded.

He pointed out that social protection is a matter of dignity and justice, that it's about making sure that no Cross Riverian is left to fall through the cracks when hardship strikes. The elderly with no one to lean on, the child whose schooling is threatened by poverty including those with disability, the widow, the small holder farmers whose harvest falls, and the young persons who cannot find a job.

According to Mr Lukpata the State has taken important steps and has a policy direction, implementation framework and the domestication of an agency by law which are all Institutional foundations to give the policy the needed force. In his words, "a policy on paper alone does not feed a family, our work is to turn commitment into coordinated actions, actions into results that people can feel in their homes and communities" he said. He thanked UNICEF and members of the technical working group for the successful hosting of the 3rd quarter meeting.

Adding his voice, the Director General Cross River Social Investment and Protection Agency, Hon Dr. Edem Effiom asserted that it's time to adopt an adaptive social protection approach which recognizes poverty as a unique phenomena in place

That single approach can't adequately address it. He called for a continuous analysis and harmonization of lessons learnt for proactive measures to mitigate poverty, while thanking the Governor for confronting the issues systematically through Institutional framework.

Some of the topics discussed were the State Development Plan in line with the Social Protection components. Report of activities from first quarter to third quarter by relevant Ministries Departments and Agencies. Challenges on the State Development Plan Budget implementation.  Also discussed was monitoring and Evaluation strategies and modalities on State Development Plan in line with Social Protection Policy. Presentation of 2027 proposed activities and next steps strategies.

Highlights of the event include goodwill messages from partners and stakeholders, and interactive sessions. The event was well attended by members of the State Technical Working Group.

Gov. Otu Gifts Brand-New Electric Vehicles to Labour Leaders, Describes Them as Critical to Governance

Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has presented brand-new electric vehicles to leaders of organised labour in the state in recognition of their role in sustaining industrial harmony and supporting the administration's development agenda.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony held at the premises of the Cross River State Property Development and Investment Limited (CROSPIL) in Calabar, the Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Pastor Ekpenyong Ene Cobham, presented the car keys to the Chairmen of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).

The Commissioner said the initiative was driven by Governor Otu's People First agenda and is consistent with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He stressed that those who dedicate themselves to advocating for workers' welfare should also have access to improved mobility.

According to him, the Governor recognises organised labour as a critical stakeholder in governance and considered it necessary to ensure that labour leaders can carry out their responsibilities without being hampered by transportation challenges.

He added that the electric vehicles form part of the state's urban mobility programme and represent the administration's effort to introduce cleaner and more sustainable transportation solutions while supporting key institutions in the state.

Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Monday Ogbodum, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Otu, describing the gesture as a "huge relief" and a clear demonstration of the Governor's recognition of labour's role in advancing workers' welfare.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Gregory Olayi, said the vehicles would significantly improve the mobility of labour leaders, enabling them to perform their duties more effectively and strengthen engagement with workers across Cross River State.

The labour leaders lauded the transition from petrol-powered to electric transportation, declaring that the initiative means "saying bye-bye to fuel" while reducing the financial burden associated with fuelling vehicles.

They noted that the provision of the electric vehicles would not only enhance mobility but also boost the capacity of labour leaders to advocate for better working conditions and improved welfare for workers.

The labour leadership thanked Governor Otu, whom they described as the "People First Governor," for what they called a "wonderful and incredible gift," and assured that the vehicles would be put to effective use in the service of workers and the state.

Gov. Otu Inaugurates NG-CARES 2.0 Steering Committee, Charges Members on Effective Implementation

The Cross River State Government has inaugurated the State CARES Steering Committee (CR-SCSC) for the implementation of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) 2.0 programme.

Inaugurating the committee on Tuesday at the Government House, Calabar, Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, charged members of the committee to put in their best to ensure the effective implementation of the programme in the overall interest of the state and its people, in line with his administration’s People First agenda.

The Governor commended the State NG-CARES coordinating team for the successful implementation of the first phase of the programme, assuring the newly inaugurated committee of the state government’s continued support to enable it to achieve its mandate.

He noted that NG-CARES was designed to strengthen existing social safety nets and provide interventions in areas including livelihood support, agriculture value chains, and other measures aimed at improving the economic resilience and wellbeing of vulnerable citizens.

According to him, the selection of experienced and competent individuals into the committee was informed by the administration’s commitment to ensuring effective management and successful implementation of NG-CARES 2.0 in Cross River State.

Governor Otu urged the committee to approach its responsibilities with diligence, accountability and a strong sense of service, stressing the importance of ensuring that the benefits of the programme reach the intended beneficiaries.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, the Commissioner for Finance and Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Michael Odere, expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for selecting the members to serve on the strategic committee. He assured the Governor that the committee would ensure prudent management of resources and strict compliance with the objectives and guidelines of the NG-CARES programme.

He pledged the committee’s commitment to effectively delivering on its mandate, ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of NG-CARES 2.0, and making the state proud.

Also speaking, the State Coordinator of NG-CARES and Secretary of the Steering Committee, Chief Henry Egbelo, highlighted the state’s performance under the first phase of the programme, noting that Cross River ranked second nationally and first in the South-South. He disclosed that the state recorded ₦49.43 billion in total earnings and ₦32.52 billion in reimbursements under NG-CARES 1.0.

He explained that the programme supported vulnerable households through social protection interventions, engaged vulnerable youths and street sweepers under the Labour-Intensive Public Works (LIPW), supported farmers across major value chains through FADAMA, implemented community infrastructure projects through the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), and provided grants to eligible micro and small enterprises.

Egbelo expressed appreciation to the Cross River State Government for its support and for creating an enabling environment that contributed to the successful implementation of the first phase of the Federal Government-World Bank initiative in the state. He said the achievements recorded under NG-CARES 1.0 demonstrated the state’s capacity to effectively implement development programmes targeted at improving the livelihoods of vulnerable citizens and strengthening economic resilience.

The committee has the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere, as Chairman. Other members include Dr. Helen Isamoh E., Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs; Barr. Odum-Iyom Ukam, Commissioner for Youth and Skills Acquisition; Hon. Johnson Ebokpo, Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development; Dr. Hippolatus Lukpata, Commissioner for Internal Donor Coordination; Cyril Asuquo, Board Chairman, Cross River State Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA); Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman/CEO, State Planning Commission; Dr. Glory Effiong, Accountant General; Mr. Effiong Asuquo Ita, Auditor General; Dr. Peter Uklala, Permanent Secretary, Budget, Monitoring and Evaluation Department; and Chief Henry Egbelo, State Coordinator, State CARES Coordinating Unit, who serves as Secretary.

GOSSA '94 Donates 40 Desks To Alma Mater, Urges Students To Shun Cultism, Immorality

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_By Iloke Egbe_

Service to humanity has been described as the true essence of existence as the 1994 set of Government Secondary School, Akamkpa (GOSSA '94) donated 40 writing desks to their alma mater in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The gesture, according to the set, was borne out of the need to give back to the institution that moulded their character at the formative stage of their lives.

The set also used the opportunity to counsel students to shun cultism, gangsterism and sexual immorality, urging them to uphold good morals while focusing on their academics.

The delegation that represented the set included the Coordinator, Dr. Joyce Ekpo Egim, Treasurer, Dr. Glory Aya, and Secretary, Dr. Charity Ayara.

Responding, the Principal of the school, Mr. Arorim Esere Arorim, and the Vice Principal, Mr. Ogban Inyang Kanu, expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that it will to a large extent support learning as the available desks in the school were grossly inadequate.

They prayed for God's blessings upon all who contributed to the success of the visit and called for sustained collaboration with the 1994 set of GOSSA.

The representatives also commended other alumni members whose contributions made the initiative a huge success, including Mrs. Rosemary Arikpo Eni, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, Mrs. Jacqueline Kelvin and Mrs. Gladys Silas.

In an interview, the coordinator of the set, Dr. (Mrs.) Joyce Ekpo Egim said the school remains the foundation of their academic attainment and other achievements in life, adding that a reflection on their time in the school and its present status calls for support.

According to her, the task of progress and development is not for government alone, as citizens must demonstrate patriotism and support critical infrastructure with high development potential, stressing that government cannot do it all alone.

 The school prefect mr. Ofa Patrick Itesor who spoke during the event thanked the team for remembering the school and for the donation of the desks which he also described as grossly inadequate and of serious need, adding that the donation is a big relief for both the school and students.

Highlights of the event were the distribution of the desks to different classes and a counselling session with the students.

Birthday Is An Act of Gratitude To God - MIDC Commissioner Tells Staff At 3rd Quarter Celebration

_Iloke Egbe_

The Commissioner, Ministry of International Donor Coordination, Elder Dr. Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata, has congratulated Staff of the Ministry whose birthdays fall within the 3rd quarter of the year, describing birthday celebration as an act of appreciation and understanding that life is a gift from God who has the power to give and take at any time.

The Commissioner, represented by the Director of Administration, Princess Ekaete B. Oku, admonished Staff to continue with the spirit of thanksgiving as a way of appreciating God's benevolence in their individual lives and as a Ministry.

She noted that the policy of celebrating Staff birthdays is a deliberate attempt to acknowledge the love and kindness of God in the lives of Staff and to return glory to God who is the sole sustainer and provider of the resources that support life.

According to her, "We are thanking God for none is missing amongst us, we also enjoyed good health with a conducive working environment which many are seeking for. It can only be God's hand in action."

She thanked the Commissioner whose fatherly disposition, she said, has instilled a great sense of harmony, understanding and team spirit amongst Staff.

In her remarks, the Welfare Committee Chair, Lady Esther Dan, said the Ministry's cherished tradition of quarterly birthday celebrations was successfully held in honour of July, August, and September celebrants, marking the Third Quarter Birthday Celebration.

"All glory and gratitude to Almighty God for using our dear father and leader, the Honourable Commissioner, to continually provide us with this wonderful opportunity to come together, unwind, ease the pressures of work, and strengthen the bond of unity and togetherness among colleagues every three months.

"Today's celebration was indeed a success, filled with joy, laughter, love, and beautiful moments. May God continue to bless our Hon. Commissioner with wisdom, strength, and good health as he sustains this beautiful tradition," while wishing happy birthday to all July, August and September celebrants.

Adding his voice, the Director, Scientific, Mr. Chris Ettah Esq., pointed out that it is very refreshing for Staff to celebrate good times and that it is a healthy culture that has been cultivated by the Ministry courtesy of the Commissioner's visionary disposition with Staff.

On his part, the Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Ukam T. Edadi, said the celebration serves as a morale booster as it offers Staff the opportunity to reflect on the journey of their lives and to make adjustments where necessary, adding that with life there is hope and with God there is bigger hope for gracious progress.

Highlights of the celebration were prayers for the celebrants, prayers for the Ministry and the State, cutting off the birthday cake and dance.The celebrants for the 3rd quarter 2026  includes Lady Esther Dan Orem Mr. Chris Etta Esq  Mr.Raphael Ogon, MS Kayoye Ikpi  Ukam

Mrs. Ekaette Choice Elemi

Mr. Iloke , Egbe.

BCS Women Groups Award Scholarships To 250 Pupils, Empower 37 Others In Calabar

Iloke Egbe 

Two women groups of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS), the Universal Women’s Fellowship (UWF) and Mansion of Blessedness (MOB), have awarded one-year scholarships to 250 pupils and students drawn from nursery, primary and secondary schools.

The groups also provided skills training and welfare support to 37 women as part of efforts to improve their livelihoods and economic wellbeing.

The initiatives were unveiled during a weeklong tripartite celebration organized by the International President of UWF, Matriarch Christ Shepherd Mmama Obele, and the Head of MOB, Matriarch Christ Shepherd Glory Oho.

The events, held from September 28 to October 3, 2026, featured the Holy Mother's Glorification, its 25th anniversary celebration and the consecration of a new set of female priests known as Eminences.

Chairman of the International Organising Committee, MCS Rita Godwin Ibanga, said 13 women received training in tailoring, poultry farming and hairdressing and were provided with starter packs to begin their own businesses.

Ibanga disclosed that 10 elderly women also received cash welfare packages, while another 10 women involved in the sale of fried wheat and soya beans, locally known as "chunks," were given financial support to expand and sustain their businesses.

She added that two women, Adaku Eminike and Oluchi Nwachukwu, donated N100,000 and a furnished apartment to an elderly homeless woman who had been living on the streets of Calabar.

According to her, the gesture was part of the groups' efforts to identify with vulnerable women and children and provide practical support to improve their living conditions.

Another highlight of the celebration was a craft competition, which produced four winners: Victoria Enang, Josephine Frank, Emem Uzoka and Unwana Sunday.

In a related development, a cosmetic scientist and Principal of Imani Aesthetic and Laser Institute, Dr. Imani Silas, offered to train five girls free of charge in beauty therapy and skincare business.

Dr. Silas said the training would equip the beneficiaries with foundational skills to build careers in the beauty, skincare and aesthetics industry and enable them to earn income with relatively low start-up capital.

She described the initiative as an empowerment programme aimed at providing the girls with practical skills that could help them secure employment or establish their own businesses and achieve financial independence.

Coordinator of the celebration, MCS Winifred Okafor, said the empowerment initiative was in continuation of the legacy of the Holy Mother, Elizabeth Esu Olumba Obu, who was the brain behind most humanitarian and infrastructural initiatives within the BCS as well as in neighbouring communities.