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  • Zana Akpagu Set To Defect To The PDP As Sen Jarigbe Holds Town Hall Meetings

    Zana Akpagu Set To Defect To The PDP As Sen Jarigbe Holds Town Hall Meetings

     

    The former Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, and one time aspirant for the Cross River Northern Senatorial District bye-election, under the All Progressive Congress APC, Prof Zana Akpagu, has declared support for Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and noted that when they go back, he will discuss with Engr Jacob and plan a bigger rally for defection from the All Progressive Congress APC to the People’s Democratic Party PDP.

    The former UNICAL Vice Chancellor, made this known during the town hall meeting organized by Sen Jarigbe Agom with his constituents yesterday May 25th 2025 at the various venues where the town hall meetings held.

    The excited Prof Akpagu, was reacting to the overwhelming demonstration of love and support for Sen Jarigbe Agom, by the people of Bekwarra Local Government Area, when he sighted Engr Jacob, one of Bekwarra Prominent sons who is a member of the All Progressive Congress APC, came out in solidarity with Sen Jarigbe Agom, on the basis of performance.

    In his words “I want to thank you all for this show of love you have shown to your son Sen Jarigbe Agom. I congratulate you for this solidarity. When we go back, we will discuss with Engr Jacob and plan a bigger rally for defection. I won’t move alone I will bring him to the PDP”.

    Earlier, the former university don, had told his kingsmen in Obudu that it was witchcraft for anyone not to identify with a performing leader like Sen Jarigbe Agom.

    He informed that he took Sen Jarigbe unaware and jumped into the bus with him and he will follow him through the five local government areas for the town hall meetings and he is sure that Sen Jarigbe won’t drive him away.

    He averred that “I will come to my PDP ward chairman, the chapter Chairman and perfect my membership registration process and then defect formally. For now I’m an illegal member”.

    The state party Chairman of the PDP, Mr Vena Ikem Esq, described Prof Akpagu as an uncommon Vice Chancellor, who used the office to empower Cross Riverians.

    He said Ipong ward was blessed with two leaders, one a governor and the other a Vice Chancellor and both occupied a place of prominence. While the former governor was busy doing food on the table, Prof Zana preoccupied his thought process with giving people live long employments.

    Reacting to the development, Mr Udie Mike, who spoke on behalf of Obudu, noted that the biggest achievement in Obudu by Sen Jarigbe is the return of the former Vice Chancellor, Prof Zana Akpagu to the PDP. He assured that with the performance of the senator, more of the APC members are ready to defect to the PDP.

    A foundation member of the PDP, Prof Zana Akpagu, was two time commissioner during Sen Liyel Imoke.

    The former Vice Chancellor is said to have given appointment to not less than 10 persons in each of the 54 political wards in Northern Senatorial District.

     

     

  • The Illusion of a Serious Opposition Coalition BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    The Illusion of a Serious Opposition Coalition BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

     

    Recent developments regarding the much-talked-about opposition coalition aiming to unseat the ruling APC in 2027 raise serious doubts about its viability and strategic coherence.

    The assignment of two former South-South governors to spearhead discussions on whether to create a new political party or adopt an existing one as the coalition’s platform underscores the uncertainty and lack of direction among the key players. Earlier this week, reports suggested that the coalition had settled on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political vehicle, only for a swift denial to follow, deepening skepticism about its seriousness.

    This ambiguity is not new. Just months ago, a prominent coalitionist dramatically resigned from the APC and joined the SDP, proclaiming it as the chosen party for the opposition’s grand strategy. Yet, this plan fizzled out almost as soon as it was announced.

    With less than two years until the next general election, any serious political movement would have finalized its strategy by now. Forming a new political party at this stage seems impractical, given the rigorous legal and constitutional processes required for registration, which could take nearly a year. Additionally, a newly registered party would need substantial time and resources to establish structures across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Even if the coalition opts to adopt an existing party, the enormous logistical hurdles of branding it effectively and securing widespread acceptance among voters remain daunting. Time is rapidly slipping away, and without a clear, resolute approach, the coalition risks becoming another footnote in Nigeria’s political history—a movement that never truly took shape.

    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Okoi Obono-Obla and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Towards an Informed Citizenry: Senator Jarigbe’s Indaba Model BY OGAR EMMANUEL 

    Towards an Informed Citizenry: Senator Jarigbe’s Indaba Model BY OGAR EMMANUEL 

    Sen Jarigbe Agom’s initiative to convene town hall meetings in all the Local Government Areas within the Cross River Northern Senatorial District underscores a pivotal step toward enhancing democratic engagement and responsive legislative governance. Such forums are instrumental in bridging the gap between elected officials and their constituents, thereby fostering a participatory political environment.

    The significance and importance of these town hall meetings cannot be overemphasized. One key benefit is that they enhance transparency and accountability. They provide constituents with the latitude and platform to directly engage with their representatives. The relationship between the governed and their representatives is bound by the tenets of the social contract, which encompasses participatory governance and other democratic ideals. These forums create room for open dialogue, where constituents can offer suggestions and contribute meaningfully to national discourse.

    This forthcoming town hall meeting, if I may suggest, should henceforth be made a regular occurrence. A recurring indaba—as the Nguni leaders of South Africa call their tribal conferences or town hall meetings—serves as a veritable reinforcement of democratic institutions. In the long run, it promotes civic participation. Beyond that, it offers a mechanism for continuous feedback, provides opportunities to clarify government policies, dispel misconceptions, and cultivate a more informed citizenry—essential ingredients for the evolution and strengthening of democratic practices.

    In a nutshell, Senator Jarigbe Agom’s town hall meetings are a commendable effort toward inclusive governance. He deserves accolades for proposing such meetings in all five LGAs. In the past, such gatherings were often held only in Obudu or Ogoja—sometimes only in Ogoja. Constituents from Obanliku, Bekwarra, and Yala had to travel long distances to participate. Therefore, an indaba of this nature not only provides a platform for constituents to express their views but also enables the senator to make more informed decisions that resonate with the needs of the community. Such initiatives are fundamental to nurturing a vibrant and participatory democracy.

    SUGGESTION: Interpreters should be provided, and people should be encouraged to express themselves in their local dialects. A position paper or communiqué should be produced from the indaba. Participants should eschew servile flattery— but bare their minds. Furthermore, a vote of confidence and endorsement for another term should be passed in his favour.

    Comr. Ogar Emmanuel Oko
    Writes from Calabar

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Ogar Emmanuel Oko, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • SUG Elections 2025: UNICAL Reconstitutes CUECO

    SUG Elections 2025: UNICAL Reconstitutes CUECO

     

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Banku Obi has approved the reconstitution of the Calabar University Electoral Commission (CUECO) 2025.

    Information made available to the University’s Public Relations Unit has it that the reconstitution follows the expiration of the 2023/2024 SUG Administration under the leadership of Comr. Alims, Blessing Iripia.

    To this end, a 15-man CUECO under the Chairmanship of Prof. Dominic Obi has been appointed to conduct elections into the SUG Executive Council, Legislature and Hall Government for the 2024/2025 session.

    According to a letter of appointment signed by the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof. Patrick Egaga, other members of the Commission comprising staff and students’ representatives include, Jonas O. Abuo, Esq of the Legal Unit, Mr. Patrick E. Ibiang, Dr. Boypa O. Egbe, Maxwell Eba, Esq, Dr. Deborah Onabe and Dr. Puis Akah.

    Others are Drs. Kimson Idiege and Jerry Etta, Mr. Samuel Eno Okoi, Udenyi Simeon, Ogidi Ndona Okora, Osegbu Favour Mmesoma, Victor Uloh and Mr. Imeh Bassey of the Students’ Affairs Division.

    The letter adds that the Elections are expected to be conducted within 3 weeks of the Commission’s appointment.

    #Public Relations Unit, University of Calabar

  • Irrespective Of The Political Party You Identify With, Sen Jarigbe Agom Can Give His All To Assist Anyone In Need BY DORNCKLAIMZ ENAMHE

    Irrespective Of The Political Party You Identify With, Sen Jarigbe Agom Can Give His All To Assist Anyone In Need BY DORNCKLAIMZ ENAMHE

    Distinguished Sen J.A.J

    He listens with empathy,

    He acts with integrity,

    He doesn’t discriminate.

    He remains impartial,

    irrespective of the political party you identify with.
    He can give his all to assist anyone in need

    He can support with all his earnings to ameliorate a medical challenge from any one

    This weekend, he seeks to connect with all of us at his Town Hall meetings with his constituents in Northern Cross River State.

    If you have ever had a Senator who didn’t embody his values, You would probably be disillusioned with that person by now.

    For Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, his focus is on serving the people, the people that stood with him against their former governor

    The people he cares about deeply
    and the people who genuinely appreciate his efforts.

    The people who have benefited from his leadership and are extremely satisfied with their Senator.

    If you admire Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, express your appreciation here with a kind word

    I love him , what about you ?

    See you at the Town hall meeting with Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Mr Dornclaimz ENAMHE, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Innovating Healthcare: Nigerian Nurses As Changemakers And Solution Providers BY JOE OBI BISONG

    Innovating Healthcare: Nigerian Nurses As Changemakers And Solution Providers BY JOE OBI BISONG

     

    Being a Paper presented On the 20th May, 2025 at College of Health Technology, Calabar

    Protocol

    Innovating Healthcare: Nigerian Nurses as Change Makers and Solution Providers

    1, Introduction
    At the heart of Nigeria’s health care delivery system are Nurses, who are the most populous group of health professionals uniquely positioned to drive transformative changes in the health sector,

    Traditionally seen as caregivers working with other professionals,but the trend has changed, The Nigerian nurses are increasingly assuming leadership roles as innovators, advocates, educators, researchers, and policymakers. In this , discussion, we shall explore the evolving role of Nigerian nurses as change makers and solution providers, examining how they are spearheading innovation in health-care, overcoming systemic challenges, and redefining patient care in a rapidly changing world.

    Today, Nigerian nurses work in diverse settings: hospitals, clinics, schools, industries, and communities. They form the backbone of primary health-care delivery, particularly in rural areas where physicians are scarce.

    However, for decades, the potential of nurses has been undermined by;
    systemic challenges, including limited professional autonomy,
    inadequate training infrastructure,
    poor remuneration,
    and a lack of representation in decision-making processes.

    Despite these challenges, Nigerian nurses have continued to rise to the occasion, driving innovations that directly impact patient care, healthcare delivery, and public health outcomes.

    Nigerian Nurses as Innovators in Healthcare Delivery

    Innovation in healthcare goes beyond technology; it encompasses new models of care, creative problem-solving, and system improvements that enhance quality and access. Nigerian nurses are leading innovation in community health outreach programs, especially in rural and underserved areas. They designing mobile clinics, immunization campaigns, and home-based care programs and reach populations that might otherwise be neglected. For example, during polio eradication campaigns, community health nurses led door-to-door immunization drives, coordinated local logistics, and built trust among hesitant populations.

    b. Task Shifting and Expanded Roles

    Due to the shortage of physicians, especially in rural areas, task shifting has become a pragmatic solution. Nigerian nurses have embraced expanded roles, providing services traditionally reserved for doctors—such as antiretroviral therapy (ART) management, maternal and neonatal care, and chronic disease monitoring. Nurse-led clinics have emerged as efficient models for delivering HIV care and antenatal services, reducing waiting times and improving treatment adherence.

    c. Use of Mobile Technology and e-Health Tools

    In response to Nigeria’s growing mobile connectivity, nurses are leveraging digital health tools to monitor patient outcomes, schedule follow-ups, and deliver health education. Projects such as mHealth Nigeria have involved nurses in the dissemination of maternal health information through SMS, improving prenatal and postnatal care uptake. Digital innovations are also empowering nurses to collect data for surveillance and research.

    3. Nurses as Leaders in Health System Reform

    Beyond clinical care, Nigerian nurses are increasingly engaged in health system reforms and policy advocacy. Their proximity to patients and communities gives them firsthand insight into systemic failures and opportunities for improvement. Key areas of leadership include:

    a. Policy Advocacy

    Nurse-led organizations like the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) advocate for better working conditions, regulatory reforms, and increased health sector funding. Nurses have been at the forefront of campaigns for universal health coverage, family planning access, and maternal health legislation.

    b. Educational Reforms and Professional Development

    Nigerian nurses are pioneering efforts to raise the standards of nursing education and practice. With the upgrading of nursing schools into degree-awarding institutions, nurses are pushing for competency-based curricula that emphasize leadership, research, and inter-professional collaboration. Programs like the Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) and postgraduate specialties are producing a new cadre of highly skilled nurse leaders.

     

    c. Research and Evidence-Based Practice

    The integration of evidence-based practice (EBP) into nursing care is gaining ground. Nigerian nurses are conducting research on local health challenges—from maternal mortality to mental health and infectious disease control. Their findings inform clinical guidelines and community interventions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

    5. Challenges Facing Nigerian Nurses in Their Role as Change Agents

    Despite these achievements, several challenges hinder Nigerian nurses from reaching their full potential as innovators and leaders:

    a. Brain Drain and Workforce Shortages

    Thousands of Nigerian nurses emigrate annually in search of better working conditions, remuneration, and professional respect. This “brain drain” has depleted the health system of experienced personnel and increased the workload for those who remain.

    b. Gender Bias and Professional Hierarchy

    Nursing, traditionally perceived as a female-dominated profession, often suffers from gendered stereotypes. In many institutions, nurses are excluded from decision-making roles, relegated to subordinate positions despite their competence. Infighting among the various nursing practitioners.

    c. Infrastructure and Funding Deficits

    Innovations require enabling environments. Many nurses work in facilities with poor infrastructure, inadequate medical supplies, and limited access to training or research funding. These limitations stifle creativity and affect care delivery.

    d. Limited Autonomy and Recognition

    Although nurses play pivotal roles in patient care, they often lack the autonomy to make clinical decisions or implement new care models without physician approval. This undermines their capacity to act as true change agents.

    6. The Way Forward: Empowering Nigerian Nurses for the Future
    The nursing and midwifery council of nigeria MUST revise the curriculum of pupil nurses and retraining of the older nurses to reflect comtemporary global health care practices.
    This will fully harness the potential of Nigerian nurses as change makers and solution providers.:

    a. Policy and Legislative Support

    The Nigerian government and health regulatory bodies must enact policies that recognize and protect the expanded roles of nurses. The implementation of the Nurses and Midwives (Establishment) Act, coupled with supportive labor laws, can ensure fair treatment, better working conditions, and professional autonomy.

    b. Strengthening Nursing Education and Research

    Upgrading nursing schools to full-fledged colleges and universities, introducing doctoral-level nursing programs, and promoting interdisciplinary research will equip nurses with the knowledge and tools to innovate. Continued professional development should be encouraged through scholarships, fellowships, and international exchange programs.

    c. Promoting Leadership and Representation

    Nurses should be represented at all levels of healthcare planning and policymaking—from hospital management boards to national health councils. Leadership training should be embedded in nursing curricula to prepare nurses for executive roles.

    d. Investing in Technology and Infrastructure

    Healthcare facilities must be equipped with the necessary tools and technologies to support innovation. Nurses should be involved in the design and implementation of health tech solutions, ensuring that digital tools align with frontline realities.

    e. Public Awareness and Professional Image Building

    Changing societal perceptions of nursing is essential.student nurses should be treated with dignity. Media campaigns, school outreach programs, and public health education can highlight the impact of nurses as leaders and innovators. Encouraging male participation and diversity in nursing will also challenge outdated stereotypes.

    Conclusion

    In the journey toward a resilient and equitable healthcare system in Nigeria, nurses stand as indispensable pillars of change. Far from being passive caregivers, they are emerging as innovators, leaders, and strategic thinkers who craft solutions to the most pressing health challenges. Whether by designing community-based interventions, leading policy reforms, or leveraging digital tools, Nigerian nurses are reshaping the healthcare landscape from the inside out.

    To fully realize this transformative potential, there must be deliberate efforts by government, institutions, and society to invest in nursing, elevate the profession’s status. Nurses are not just part of the system, but the driving force behind its progress.
    Nursing is more than a profession. It is calling grounded in purpose, compassion, and leading transformative changer across the healthcare system.

    Thank you

    Joe Obi Bisong RN, RPN, RNT, BSc(Hons), MSC
    e-mail: [email protected]
    08066670557

    Chief Joe Obi Bisong is a male, a retired Nurse, Educator, Scholar, Farmer and Politician.
    Former Leader, Boki Legislature, One time Cross River State PDP Publicity Secretary.
    He was Senior Special Assistant to CRS Governor, and also Special Adviser Environment CRS Governor.
    He served as Director General Caterpillar Movement, and Deputy DG of the PDP Governorship Governorship campaigns ,2023.
    He is an Environmental Resource management researcher. He is married with children.
    Holder of several honorary awards and chieftency titles. His hobbies include: Arbitration, Driving, table tennis and intellectual discuss.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Chief Joe Obi Bisong, and does not represent TheLumineNews, it’s agents or the organization the author works for.

  • Jarigbe Agom Announces Town Hall Meetings Across Cross River North Senatorial District

    Jarigbe Agom Announces Town Hall Meetings Across Cross River North Senatorial District

     

    As part of my ongoing commitment to engage with the people of Cross River North Senatorial District, I am pleased to announce a series of Town Hall meetings across the five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the district. These interactive sessions will provide an opportunity for open dialogue, feedback, and discussion on key issues affecting our communities.

    The schedule is as follows:

    Saturday, 24th May, 2025:
    • 10:00 AM – Obanliku LGA
    • 1:00 PM – Obudu LGA
    • 3:00 PM – Bekwarra LGA

    Sunday, 25th May, 2025:
    • 2:00 PM – Yala LGA
    • 4:00 PM – Ogoja LGA

    I warmly invite every constituent of Cross River North, especially those in support of my vision for a better future, to join these sessions. Your voice matters, and together, we will continue to work towards the development and progress of our great district.

    I look forward to meeting with you all!

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Senator, Cross River North Senatorial District

    NB: Respective venues will be communicated in the various platforms by the Organizers in each LGA.

  • Sen Jarigbe Set To Engage Constituents In Town Hall Meetings

    Sen Jarigbe Set To Engage Constituents In Town Hall Meetings

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe Announces Town Hall Meetings Across Cross River North Senatorial District

    As part of my ongoing commitment to engaging with the people of Cross River North Senatorial District, I am pleased to announce a series of Town Hall meetings across the five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the district. These interactive sessions will provide an opportunity for open dialogue, feedback, and discussion on key issues affecting our communities.

    The schedule is as follows:

    Saturday, 24th May, 2025:
    • 10:00 AM – Obanliku LGA
    • 1:00 PM – Obudu LGA
    • 3:00 PM – Bekwarra LGA

    Sunday, 25th May, 2025:
    • 2:00 PM – Yala LGA
    • 4:00 PM – Ogoja LGA

    I warmly invite every constituent of Cross River North, especially those in support of my vision for a better future, to join these sessions. Your voice matters, and together, we will continue to work towards the development and progress of our great district.

    I look forward to meeting with you all!

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Senator, Cross River North Senatorial District

    NB: Respective venues will be communicated in the various platforms by the Organizers in each LGA.

  • Open Letter to the Honorable Minister of Education: Preparing Our Students for the Impending Digital WAEC Examinations BY MIKE UDAM

    Open Letter to the Honorable Minister of Education: Preparing Our Students for the Impending Digital WAEC Examinations BY MIKE UDAM

    Open Letter to the Honorable Minister of Education: Preparing Our Students for the Impending Digital WAEC Examinations

    Your Excellency, Honorable Minister of Education,

    I write to you with a deep sense of urgency and responsibility regarding a matter that threatens the academic future of thousands of Nigerian students—the impending transition of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to Computer-Based Examinations (CBE). This shift, set to commence next year, presents a critical challenge that demands immediate and decisive action from your office.

    The current reality in many schools, particularly in Cross River State and likely across the nation, is alarming. Data suggests that over 80% of Senior Secondary Two (SS2) students lack basic computer literacy. Compounding this crisis is the fact that a significant number of our schools have no functional computer laboratories, and where they exist, access for students remains severely limited. Without foundational digital skills and exposure to computer-based testing formats, our students are being set up for systemic failure—a prospect that will have far-reaching consequences on their educational and professional futures.

    Your Excellency, the time for intervention is now. I respectfully urge your office to consider the following emergency measures:

    1. Immediate Adjustment of the Academic Calendar: A temporary shortening of the current third term, followed by a mandatory two-month intensive computer literacy program for all SS2 students, would provide them with the critical skills needed to navigate the digital WAEC examinations.
    2. Partnerships with Accredited Training Centers: Collaborate with reputable ICT training institutions to ensure students receive hands-on training in basic computer operations, typing, and digital test-taking strategies.
    3. Emergency Provision of Infrastructure: Direct immediate funding and support to schools lacking computer facilities, ensuring at least minimum digital readiness before the 2025 WAEC examinations.

    The stakes could not be higher. Without prompt action, we risk a generational setback in educational outcomes, with thousands of students failing not due to a lack of academic ability, but because of systemic unpreparedness for this digital transition.

    Your leadership at this pivotal moment can avert this looming disaster. I appeal to you to act swiftly and decisively, for the sake of our children and the future of Nigeria’s education system.

    Respectfully yours,
    Dr. Mike Udam
    School Teacher and Preacher
    Ogoja, Nigeria

  • UNICAL: Dean Calls On HODs, Mobilization Officers To Strengthen Collaboration For Seamless NYSC Process

    UNICAL: Dean Calls On HODs, Mobilization Officers To Strengthen Collaboration For Seamless NYSC Process

     

    The Dean of Student Affairs of the University of Calabar, Prof. Patrick Egaga, has called on Heads of Departments (HODs) and Mobilization Officers to strengthen collaboration to ensure a seamless and error-free NYSC mobilization process for Prospective Corps Members (PCMs).

    Prof. Egaga made this call during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the CES Conference Room, where key academic staff gathered to review and improve the mobilization procedures across the institution.

    In his remarks, the Dean emphasized the importance of using only senate-approved results in the mobilization process and warned against any form of compromise or undue influence from students or staff.

    “HODs should act as watchdogs to ensure Mobilization Officers carry out their duties diligently. Any mistake made in the mobilization process will be traced back to the department, and those responsible will be held accountable,” he warned.

    He further urged all departments to work in unity, emphasizing that consistency and cooperation between HODs and Mobilization Officers is critical to preventing errors and delays in student mobilization.

    The Dean also appealed to HODs to appoint mobilization officers based on capacity, integrity, trust, and service delivery driven output, rather than friendship.

    Also speaking at the event, , the Deputy Registrar, Student Affairs Division, Mr. Patrick Ibiang, delivered a paper titled “Enhancing Mobilization Process for Effective Service Delivery.”

    He clarified that the mobilization process begins and ends at the departmental level before final vetting by the Student Affairs Division.

    “Departments will bear full responsibility for any errors or invalidations, including the cost of reprinting university certificates,” he added.

    Mr. Michael Ikogor, the NYSC Data Entry Officer at the Student Affairs Division, gave a presentation on “Guidelines and Best Practices for NYSC Mobilization Data Entry.”

    He outlined frequent data entry mistakes and advised officers to verify information against senate-approved results.

    The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, providing attendees the opportunity to clarify issues and share suggestions to improve the mobilization process.

    Public Relations Unit