Statement by Unicross Alumni President on the Occasion of Inauguration of the 6th Governing Council

Iloke Egbe 

The President of University of Cross River State Alumni Association Dr Inyali Peter bare his mind on the positive development associated with the University in recent time, specifically the Inauguration of the 6th Governing Council of the University. 

He stated that on Thursday, April 17, 2025, was a memorable day for our nascent Association and, indeed, the entire University for a number of reasons. That his inauguration into the 6th Governing Council of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), may have made the headlines among  members, but there was more to it.

According to the President, the day marked a remarkable beginning of a new dawn in the institution in general and the end to the almost seven years of leadership tussle in the Alumni Association. Beyond this, the University has moved from not having a single member of its product in the Council a few years ago to having one in the last eight years and now four in the incumbent Council which are Dr. Victor Ndifon, Mr. Ukam Ilok, Dr. Eddy Hogans, even though they represent different interests, they have now joined the President to increase the number of products of the Institution in Council. This number will increase to five in the coming days when they conduct the convocation seat election. What this means is that for the first time in the history of the University, the Governing Council will have five (5) persons with permanent connections to the institution as old students playing critical roles in its policy framework. This does not only signify progress but it is a sign that the Institution has come of age and sooner, rather than later will begin to also produce Vice Chancellors and other Management Staff from among the Alumni of the Institution.

 Stating that as the President, Thursday was not the first time he was going to be introduced into the Governing Council. That he was first introduced into the Governing Council (5th Council ) on the 19th of February 2024 but shortly after that, some persons with vested interests that wanted to perpetually keep the Association divided to their benefits, frustrated all efforts for him  to function effectively in Council. But as God had destined, what they thought was aimed at destroying him turned out to be a reason for him and the Association’s elevation. Mr Peter said he was not just inaugurated in the small Council Chambers of the University but at the hallowed Chambers of the State Executive Council by none less a person but the Visitor and Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu. Even at the point of the inauguration, some agents within and outside the University who are adverse to this progress tried to frustrate it, but God put them all to shame.

In his words "I don’t begrudge anybody because I see the situation the Association has gone through as the necessary path to cross to take it rightful place as the real owner of the University', adding that maybe without the journey, the many lessons we have learned wouldn’t have been possible. Again, like I did promised during the electioneering period in 2023, after this current administration, nobody within and outside the University would take the Alumni Association for granted again.

 While expressing words of appreciation, Mr Peter said to everybody who stood by truth throughout the stormy days, we say thank you. To our dear Governor and Visitor, we say thank you for believing in my ability to be part of the team to transform the institution. Stating that he have never forgotten the very short but inspiring congratulatory message he received from the Governor in 2023 upon winning the  election as President of the Association. Reflecting on message he received from the Governor, where he expressed excitement about his emergence because, in him, he had a partner who shares the same passion as him for the institution. While affirming that the Governor has demonstrated his love for the institution in many ways before and even now as the Visitor.

He extended his appreciation to the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, the Commissioner for Education, Distinguished Senator Stephen Odey, the House of representative member, Hon. Peter Akpanke, the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Justin Beshel, the State Protocol Officer, Hon. Sylvester Abang, the Commissioner for Youths Development, Barr. Ukam Ijom, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youths Development, Comrade Daniel Obo, and all those who stood by him from the beginning of the struggle to the end, he Said thank you. According Mr Peter he said I don’t have anything to offer you other than ensuring I make you proud in the discharge of my duties.

And to his predecessor, Comrade Eyam Abeng, and his wonderful Alumni executive members, the Board of Trustees Chairman, Barr. Dr. Ukam Ngwu, and other members, and all his supporters, he also said thank you for believing in me. Now that we have been more empowered, while assuring that he is motivated and commitment to partner with relevant authorities to move the University forward in line with the People’s First Agenda of Governor Bassey Otu and we are stronger than ever.

 He said the entire Alumni and the University community, I appeal for understanding saying "my promise to you is that we may not always do what you will like, but we will always do what is right and best for the Association and University. For the things you’ll not like, I apologize ahead but know that our intention is far from trying to offend people; we know that in the process of trying to change the norm, a lot of people will be offended but trust us that whatever we stand for, both in the running of the Association and contributions in Council will be in the best interest of our alma mater".

Mr Peter further acknowledged that the Association have spent over a year wasting resources that should have been channeled into working for the University in court or security. However, the storm is now over, and  the Association is getting to work immediately. That like he assured during the elections, he resolved and remained good relationship to ensure that we mobilize resources to address the small yet important things that can make our University better. But we can not do this alone. Therefore, I appeal for the continued support of everybody he added. For some of our members who are still  pained of the progress made, he urge them to put the interest of the Association and University first by eschewing all bitterness and join hands to work together for our alma mater.

Easter, Gov. Otu Calls for Forgiveness, Unity, Love among Cross Riverians

Iloke, Egbe 

As Christians around the World celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has extended warm Easter greetings to residents of the State, urging them to embrace the spirit of love, unity, and forgiveness.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Mr Nsa Gill said in his Easter message to Cross Riverians, Governor Otu, acknowledged his  family and the Government of the State, felicitates with Christian faithfuls across the State, describing Easter as a season of deep spiritual significance.

According to the Governor, Easter is not just a commemoration of Christ suffering, death, and resurrection, but a powerful reminder of hope, redemption, and the renewal of life. He noted that the season offers a divine opportunity for individuals and communities to rekindle peace, joy, and harmony within their hearts and across the State.

That the Governor Reflected on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, Governor Otu called on Cross Riverians to draw inspiration from the humility, love, and forgiveness demonstrated by Christ, even in the face of betrayal, suffering, and crucifixion.

In his words, the Governor said "It is my hope, believing in the risen Christ, that the love which our Saviour displayed during His betrayal by a close ally, His agony, and His ultimate crucifixion, would bring unshakeable love and peace to shine brightly in our communities,” he said.

The Governor also urged residents to emulate Christ virtues, especially His steadfastness, prayerfulness, and forgiving nature, while reminding the public that true progress and peace can only be achieved when citizens look beyond ethnic, social, and gender differences to build a united and caring society.

“As we mark this unique season,” he continued, “let us remain our brothers’ keepers, irrespective of tribe, social status, or gender.”

According to Mr Gill, Governor Otu concluded his message with a prayer that the message of love, peace, and joy, which defines the Easter period, will continue to abide in the hearts of all Cross Riverians

Easter Message to the People of Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency, CRS

 

Iloke Egbe 

My Dear Constituents,

Christians all over the World are celebrating the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, this weekend, in what is generally known as the Easter season.

The season reminds us of the sacrifice that the Messiah made on the cross of Calvary to redeemed mankind, to demonstrate His love and mark the beginning of a life of victory for us. 

As a people, this Easter should be a reminder on the gains of and necessity for the exhibition of genuine love for everyone around us. The Holy Book tells us that love is the biggest thing we can ever give to anyone. This is why I place emphasis on love- transparent love, in all that I do as your representative in the National Assembly.

From day one, I had pledged to do everything within my powers to make our Federal Constituency and its people better than the way it was before you elected me in 2019. I have been careful and deliberate in doing this, from day one. That is why, I can beat my chest and declare that there is no part of the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency that has not benefitted from my representation, either through the projects and programmes I attracted, or through my bills, or through my motions and assistance to individuals and families or through special interventions.

I may not have done everything you expected from me, but I am happy that we are not where we were about five years ago when I got into this office.  

Whatever you have seen or enjoyed from my legislative representation is a product of my commitment to a sacrificial show of love to the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency. Rest assured that a lot more are coming as the days unfold. And I trust that God will keep all of us alive to enjoy all that God has in store for everyone in this constituency. I am committed to doing much more, through the help of that same God that has brought us this far, and with the support of our president, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu and our Governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and the support of my colleagues in the National Assembly.

I express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and trust in me as your representative. May this Easter season bring you and all of yours ceaseless peace, joy and new beginnings. 

May the spirit of renewal fertilized by the renewed hope mantra and driven by the Peoples First Agenda of our leaders at the Federal and State levels inspire us all to work towards a brighter future for our constituency, knowing that we cannot walk alone.

I wish you a blessed and joyful Easter celebration. Thank you for allowing me to serve you. I'm committed to continuing working tirelessly for the peace, development and growth of our Federal Constituency.

Happy Easter.

Gov. Otu Inaugurates Governing Councils for UNICROSS and UEE, Sets New Vision for Tertiary Education

Iloke Egbe 

In a decisive move to reposition tertiary Education in Cross River State, Governor Bassey Otu has inaugurated the newly constituted Governing Councils of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) and the University of Education and Entrepreneurship (UEE), Akamkpa, urging members to drive institutional excellence, ensure accountability, and align with global best practices.

In a Press release made public by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Mr. Nsa Gill, indicate that during the inauguration ceremony in Calabar, Governor His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu acknowledged that UNICROSS had long suffered from what many perceived as gross neglect, particularly in terms of physical development. That after deep thought and consultation, and having considered all available facts and evidence, I am today opening a new chapter in the relationship between Government and its institutions of higher Education,” he declared.

Mr. Gill informed that the Governor emphasized that while his administration is committed to a renewed focus on higher Education, this attention must be matched with transparency and responsibility by the Universities’ Management s. That the same expectation, he said, applies to the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa.

According to Mr Gill, Governor Otu stated that the appointments into both Councils and Management were carefully considered and reflect the state’s finest minds and seasoned professionals. in the words of the Governor 'I have taken pains in appointing some of the best that the State has in both the Governing Councils and Management of the institutions. I implore you to apply your wealth of experience in making the institutions world-class,” he charged.

Speaking further, the Governor also stressed the importance of respecting the distinct roles of Councils and Management. “Most University problems emanate from role conflict or interference. I trust that each of you will stick strictly to your clearly defined functions,” he warned.

That the Governor encouraged Council members to leverage their networks to attract new sources of funding and value to their institutions. “Do not limit yourselves to already known threads of resource sources. How well you succeed in attracting alternative support will determine how much you reduce dependency on Government,” he added.

Members of the 6th Governing Council and Management of UNICROSS include Ntufam Dr. Fidelis Ugbo as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council; Prof. Francisca Bassey as Acting Vice-Chancellor; Barr. Francis Oyije, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education; Hon. Francis Ettah and Mrs. Catherine Aibike as Council Members. Also on the Council are Prof. (Mrs.) Akon Joshua, Prof. Ekeng Ekefre, Prof. Thomas Ojikpong, and Dr. Fedinald Kamba representing the Senate; Dr. Victor Ndifon and Mr. Ukam Ilok representing the Congregation.

While Mr. Victor E. Ene serves as the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dr. Ekpe Ibom Ekpe serve as the University Bursar, and Dr. Veronica Iyishu, the University Librarian. Additional members include Dr. Anderson Etika and Dr. Inyali Peter, President of the UNICROSS Alumni Association.

The University of Education and Entrepreneurship, Akamkpa, members of the newly inaugurated Governing Council include Prof. Susan Eta Etim, who serves as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council; Prof. Patrick N. Asuquo as Acting Vice-Chancellor; and Dr. Gabriel Ogar Egbe as Registrar. Mr. Francis Oyije, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, also serves on the Council along with Bishop Christopher Obasse, Dr. Aya Offu Ebirigor, and Barr. Richard Ogar S. Ogbeche.

Other members are Dr. Ekpe Eyo Bassey as Bursar and Mr. Offem Christopher Okoi as University Librarian. Senate representatives include Dr. Eunice Nsor, Dr. Marcelina Edu, Dr. Ugbe A. Ugbe, and Dr. Tandu Egbe Ojong. Mrs. Edom Itam Ekpenyong and Mr. Harold Joe Eban represent the Congregation.

Governor Otu concluded the event by formally inaugurating both Councils, while expressing his confidence in their ability to lead the Universities to new heights. As Visitor to both institutions, he reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to revitalizing the higher Education sector, strengthening institutional autonomy, and fostering an environment for innovations, scholarship, and sustainable development.

Dr. Fidelis Ugbo, the Chairman of the Governing Council of UNICROSS responded on behalf of other inaugurated Council members and assured that they will not fail in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities adding that it's an other opportunity to serve God through service to humanity.

APC Cross River Expanded Caucus Endorses President Tinubu, Gov, Otu for Second Term

 

Iloke Egbe 

The Cross River State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) convened an enlarged caucus meeting on Tuesday evening at the Hogis Royale Hotel in Calabar, bringing together the crème de la crème of the party to deliberate on the state’s political trajectory and governance progress.

In a statement made signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the State Governor Mr Nsa Gill informed that the high-level gathering featured a stellar array of political heavyweights, including former Governor Clement Ebri, Dame Princess Florence Ita-Giwa, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, , Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, and the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, Ada Bekwarra Omang Idiege. One after the other, these party stalwarts extolled Governor Bassey Otu’s remarkable strides in just under two years—particularly in infrastructure, security, education, healthcare, aviation, and agriculture.

That in a unanimous decision, the expanded caucus passed a vote of confidence and endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Bassey Edet Otu, and Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey for a second term in office come 2027.

Speakers praised President Tinubu’s bold leadership and economic reform agenda at the national level, while even more resounding applause was reserved for Governor Otu, whose “People First” governance style was described as transformative.

According to Mr Gill, that to formalize the endorsements, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South Senatorial District, moved the motion for the governor’s second-term bid, seconded by Hon. John Ulafor. Similarly, Hon. Victor Abang, representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency, moved the motion in favor of President Tinubu’s re-election, which was seconded by Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Speaker of the State House of Assembly.

That the highlights featured communiqué which was issued at the end of the meeting, chaired by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Stephen Odey. The drafting committee included Dr. Odey himself, Hon. Emmanuel Edem Inyang (APC State Publicity Secretary), Dr. Alice Ekwu (former Commissioner for Climate Change), Hon. Lawrencia Ita (Commissioner for Establishment), and Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong (Member representing Boki II in the House of Assembly).

Among the key resolutions, the communiqué called for the immediate formation of a high-powered delegation of eminent Cross Riverians—led by Governor Otu and his deputy—to engage President Tinubu in Abuja over the perceived marginalization of the State in Federal appointments and infrastructural considerations. The stakeholders also expressed profound gratitude to the President for approving and initiating the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Special Agro-Processing Zone project in Cross River, describing them as transformational efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda that will positively impact generations to come.

That the expanded stakeholders acknowledged Otu’s consistent efforts to curb insecurity across the State were also lauded. Stakeholders encouraged him to sustain the current security architecture, which they noted has been instrumental in restoring calm and stability to many communities.

The caucus further emphasized the need for regular engagement between Government and key stakeholders to promote synergy, deepen governance, and foster inclusive development across all sectors.

Above all, the expanded caucus reaffirmed that unity within the party is paramount. They resolved to bridge all gaps, strengthen internal cohesion, and maintain APC’s dominance as the leading political force in Cross River State.

In his response, His Excellency Governor Bassey Otu thanked the stakeholders for their steadfast support and solidarity. He reiterated that his focus remains on delivering his campaign promises, unbothered by political distractions or opposition theatrics.

In his words the Governor said "my preoccupation is to fulfill the mandate freely given to me by Cross Riverians. I urge everyone to join me in building a better State rather than indulge in divisive politics,” the governor stated.

He concluded with a firm pledge, that “By 2031, I will leave Cross River State significantly better than I met it—economically stronger, more secure, and filled with opportunities for all. The outcome from the meeting is a strong signal that the ruling APC remains strong, united and focused in the business of good governance for the development of the State.

Eyo Offiong, Sam Egbala others holds Thanksgiving Service

Iloke Egbe 

In appreciation and recognition of God's benevolence to His children at every stage in ones life, and as a way of demonstrating the believe in God as the source of everything, a Thanksgiving Service has been held at the Assemblies of God Church Akim, Calabar by Mr Eyo Offiong Permanent Secretary State Secondary Education Board and Mr Samuel Egbala Permanent Secretary Ministry of Youth Development to thank God for His many blessings on them. 

Delivering his sermon during the church program Rev. Emmanuel Essien drew his preaching from Psalm 107 reading from verse one to forty three with the theme God behind the scene, emphasized that at all times God is the chief actor of every situation one finds around him or her. 

That when things are hard, tough, bad or good, God is behind the scene and will answer you if you believe that He is in charge and call on Him. According to Rev. Essien thanksgiving is an obligation the children of God are expected to imbibe in all situations they experienced as there are so many things God does for His children without announcing it to the public.

He informed that first Sunday of the month in Assemblies of God Church is a mission sunday where those in detention by security agents at different 

points like police station, correction centres, refugee camps or internally displaced people are visited to share with their plight including students and evangelical activities for the spreading of the gospel.  There were other political office holders that observed their thanksgiving service for what God has done for them while others brought their new born babies for child blessing. Still others thank God for successful marriage and godly life. 

In his remarks, Mr Eyo Offiong accompanied with his dear wife Pastor Mrs. Ngozi Eyo Offiong acknowledged that God is proactive in nature, not reactive and the reason why he give his support within the ability provided by God, while Mr Samuel Egbala also accompanied by his wife Mrs Theresa Sam Egbala and children acknowledged that God is the one behind the scene in his life, therefore, he give God all the glory for His kindness towards him and family. 

The Church service featured Melody of praise by choir, tithe offering and hymn renditions. Some of the dignitaries at the Church service include Barr. Mike Anyia former Secretary to Cross River State Government, the 

Commissioner Ministry of Women Affairs Hon. Mrs. Edema Urom, the State Statistician General Dr. Josephat Ogar, across section of political appointees from State and Local Government while the reception was held at West Africa People's Institute WIPI and featured goodwill messages, toast for progress by the Permanent Secretary CR State House of Assembly Commission Barr John Odu, dance session and group photograph with across section of secondary school principals in attendance.

Obanliku Chairman, Hon. Sunny Ayang Bag's Peace Ambassador Award, Urge Youth to be Agents of Peace in their Domain's.

Iloke Egbe 

The National Association of Nigeria Youth Ambassadors for Peace has conferred the " Ambassador of Peace  Award" on the Executive Chairman of Obanliku, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ebebe Ayang, JP in honour of his outstanding contributions to the development of his Area and his immense commitment to the sustenance of peace within and outside his domain.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Council chairman, Comr. Emmanuel Kayang and made public.

That during the presentation ceremony that took place at the Obanliku Local Government Council Secretariat, the Chief of Staff to the National President of the youth body, Comrade Aji Abraham  representing (Kaduna) unit maintained that the award is in recognition of  the Chairman's dedication of your life to humanitarian services, being peace advocacy, and above all, the most outstanding chairman who has contributed to the development of the security sector in Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

 The CPS cited comrade  Abraham who said the youth body  deemed Hon. Sunny fit for the award because of his passion for capacity development for youth, commitment to peace initiatives before and during the period already spent in 

office as the Executive Chairman of Obanliku. 

 While the Public Relations Officer of the body, Comrade Adamu Julius (Taraba), alluded that Hon. Sunny's exceptional performance spans beyond his area of governance, as it has been widely observed, especially among the neighboring Benue State people saying We have heard and seen your distinguished exemplary leadership, selfless and unrelenting support, and services in uplifting the youth constituency to an enviable status. Your  painstaking commitment to peace in your area has been widely acknowledged he added.

According to Mr Kayang while receiving the prestigious award, Hon. Sunny noted that he is overwhelmed for considering him deserving of the award while thanking God for the opportunity given to him to meet the youth body in the 'Switzerland of Nigeria' (Obanliku). 

In his words, the chairman said I am thrilled by the title of the award because maintaining peace is what gives me joy. I have been the chairman of the Benue/ Cross River State Crisis Management Committee for a long period and have achieved a lot, irrespective of challenges. As an administration, we are committed to peace, and we are leaving no stone unturned towards sustaining and pursuing peace not only in our generation but in the generation after us. I appeal to you as a youth body  to help the government in curbing or reducing crises bedeviling our country because no development can strive in such an atmosphere.

Present at the event were the Vice Chairman of the Council, Hon. Glory Awowoh, the Secretary of the council, Dr. Joseph Ebebe Agba, the Special Adviser on Peace & Security, Mr. Ogbang, Joseph, the Director, Finance & Supply, Mr. Fidelis Kajijung, the Obanliku Community Relations Officer, Chief Linus Afen, other officials of the youth body, including the secretary general,  Comrade Amborlu Raphael ( Lagos), the financial secretary, Amb George Wisdom (Kogi), Director of socials, Miss Desire James ( Abuja),  Hon. Azah Linus, Ex-Officio 1 (Benue) and the Director for Contact mobilisation, David James (Nassarawa).

 The ambience of the award ceremony was characterize by cordiality and featured interactive session and group photograph