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  • Independence Day: Sen Jarigbe Agom Calls For Unity, Ingenuity to Overcome Nation’s Challenges

    Independence Day: Sen Jarigbe Agom Calls For Unity, Ingenuity to Overcome Nation’s Challenges

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has charged Nigerians to be united, resourceful and reignite the indomitable Nigerian spirit so as to triumph over the myriad of socio-economic challenges the nation is faced with.

    Senator Jarigbe, in his message to commemorate the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, urged citizens to be hopeful, prayerful and continue to work towards sustained peace, unity and progress of Cross River North and the country.

    According to him, “I heartily salute, congratulate and celebrate our great country Nigeria and its citizens, as we celebrate the 65th anniversary of the nation’s independence this year.

    “As we celebrate these historic event, it is important that we deeply reflect on the vision of our founding fathers who laboured to secure our right to self-determination and establish a country based on unity, love and sacrifice on October 1st 1960.

    “Today, I join all patriots to once again affirm that ‘though our tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we stand’ and that the ‘labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain’”.

    The Lawmaker continued: “The current global and local challenges facing us as a nation may look daunting, however as a resilient, resourceful and great country, we will continually prevail and triumph over these challenges.

    “The nation’s security challenges, the difficult economic situation and other challenges we currently face, may seem threatening to the fabric of our nation, but if we unite and ignite our indomitable Nigerian spirit, we shall overcome and emerge as the victorious people that we are.

    “In Cross River North Senatorial District, we will continue to strengthen the foundations of our society by transforming our institutions, empowering our people and communities to ensure efficiency in production and service delivery.”

    “We believe that the steps we have since commenced to take will strengthen the political and economic fabric of our Senatorial District; they will also enhance social justice, security, economic development and delivery of good services to our people.

    To all Nigerians, 65 hearty cheers! Long live Cross River North Senatorial District. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria 🇳🇬

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarileague Coalition Celebrates New Yam Festival; Says No Alternative to Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe

    Jarileague Coalition Celebrates New Yam Festival; Says No Alternative to Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe

    By Elijah Ugani – Calabar 

    A socio political group that cuts across political, social, religious and ethnic divides, Jarileague Coalition, has stated that with the performance of Sen Jarigbe Agom, so far, it will amount to witchcraft and social retardation for any sane person not to support him to continue to serve his constituents.

    The Group posit, very strongly, that for now, Dist.Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe is simply irreplaceable.

    This was disclosed in Calabar , Cross River State, Saturday September 20th 2025, during the New Yam get-together organised by members of the famous Coalition

    Speaking at the occasion, the Convener and Spirit Head of Jarileague Coalition, Prof Patrick Egaga, thanked all members, friends and associates who identify with the
    with the good works of the diligent and Distinguished Senator who is the political pride of CRN.
    The University don disclosed that, “as it stands now, there is no alternative to Senator Jarigbe” and also that “the ONLY alternative to Senator Jarigbe is Senator Jarigbe”.
    His handwriting and signature is on the 54 political WARDS of CRN. We can see clearly now.

    Prof. Egaga also solicited prayers aside the overwhelming moral anf physical support for the Senator.

    On his part, Prof Joseph Obu of Physics Department University of Calabar, commended Sen Jarigbe Agom’s unprecedented representation and noted that “I have never met with Sen Jarigbe Agom. I must have taught him in year One in the University. When I went home, I saw schools, roads and solar lights right in my compound and I was told that they were all facilitated by Sen Jarigbe Agom. What a man?

    “He tarred the road from my friend’s mother’s village to his father’s village. He is here seated. For us, we have got a task to ensure that we take this advocacy to every part of our local government areas and ensure that he is returned to continue his good works. We are aware that some people are ready to spend billions to snatch the senate position, but we are very determined to ensure that we mobilize support for Sen. Jarigbe’s return”.

    Engr Jacob Owan PhD, noted that “I am a member of the APC and I have identified with Sen Jarigbe Agom. If he is going to contest election in 2027, and APC will be my headache, I will defect to the PDP to support Sen Jarigbe Agom.

    “His performance is unmatched. He has done well for us. Wike said, you do for me, I do for you”.

    On his part, Mr Justine Akpanke PhD, from Igwo in Obudu Local Government Area, noted that ” Apart from the road tarred by the former Secretary to the State Government, Mr Gabriel Ogar to his compound, the only tarred road from Obudu – Ogoja highway to our primary school, is currently being constructed by Sen Jarigbe Agom. I wonder how anyone will drive through that road to come and tell the Igwo community not to vote for Jarigbe”

    Others took turns to affirm their support for Sen Jarigbe Agom, despite their affiliation with their political parties, and noted that the 2027 general elections, will be the masses against the elitist class.

  • C’River PDP Constitutes 20-Member Committee For September Congress

    C’River PDP Constitutes 20-Member Committee For September Congress

    Culled from Weekenders

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has intensified preparations for its September 27, 2025 State Congress with the unveiling of a 20-member committee to steer the exercise.

    A statement signed by the State Chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem, said the panel will oversee the planning and coordination of the congress to ensure it is credible, transparent, and rancour-free.

    The committee is chaired by former University of Calabar Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu, while Chief (Barr.) Helen Bocco serves as Secretary.

    Other prominent members include Prof. Walter Mboto, Prof. Tom Ogar, Rt. Hon. Fred Osim, Barr. Mike Aniah, Barr. Francis Anom, Barr. Victor Edim, and Barr. Paul Ebiala.

    Also named are Dr. Ivon Ettah, Hon. Ina Ibor, Hon. Ayuk Ntui, alongside several respected party leaders representing the state’s 18 Local Government Areas.

    Ikem described the team as “a reputable mix of experience and competence,” noting that its composition underscores the PDP’s commitment to inclusivity and internal democracy. He expressed confidence that the committee would deliver a seamless congress capable of repositioning the party for greater political relevance in the state.

    The congress is expected to attract massive participation from party faithful, as stakeholders gear up for a landmark event that will define the PDP’s leadership and strategic direction in Cross River State.

  • C’River Deputy Governor Peter Odey’s Northern Tour: When Government Listens BY FRED ABUA 

    C’River Deputy Governor Peter Odey’s Northern Tour: When Government Listens BY FRED ABUA 

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, PhD, has just concluded a five-day official tour across the five Local Government Areas of Northern Cross River- Bekwarra, Obanliku, Obudu, Ogoja, and Yala. The tour, held in commemoration of their 2025 New Yam Festivals, a cherished tradition in these agrarian Local Government Areas, wasn’t just a cultural visit, but it was empathy in action, a government willing to listen before acting.

    With a consistent message, “I have come to celebrate the new yam with you, and to listen, so government can meet your actual needs,” Dr. Odey moved from community to community, palace to palace, play ground to play ground, not with empty promises, but with real interventions and tangible impacts.

    While over #150 million was committed to support cultural celebrations across the five LGAs, the Deputy Governor brought more than just goodwill. He delivered life-changing interventions worth over #250 million, addressing core community needs – ultramodern boreholes for clean water, agricultural inputs, youth employment opportunities, and local development projects.

    In Obudu, for example, he responded immediately to a request from the women of Utukalu by donating ₦5 million for fertilizers and pesticides. It was a practical and timely response to a pressing agricultural need.

    Everywhere he visited, traditional rulers, critical stakeholders, youth groups, women, and people living with disabilities welcomed him warmly, expressing gratitude not just for the immediate support, but for the visible impact of the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration—notably in rural infrastructure, electrification, agriculture, potable water, and job creation.

    Yet, the consistent refrain was: “We want more.” But this was not a complaint. It was a sign of trust, a belief that government is truly, ‘People First’ and capable of delivering beyond their expectations.

    Often underestimated because of his gentle demeanor, Dr. Peter Odey is a man of deep capacity, thoroughly prepared for leadership. With a background in law, sociology, international relations, and conflict management, he brings depth and intellect to leadership. His journey, from grassroots development work in the NGO sector to high-level public service-has been guided by a singular mission: uplifting his people.

    And during this tour, he was never alone. He was accompanied by a delegation of political leaders and stakeholders Northern Cross River, a strong signal of continued unity, respect, and shared vision.

    Among his entourage were LGAs was member representing Obudu Bekwarra and Obanliku in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Peter Akpanke, LGAs Council Chairmen, State Chairman of the Party, Alphonsus Eba, serving and former members of the Cross River State House of Assembly, serving and former commissioners, Special Advisers, Directors-General, and other top government officials. Others were High Chief Higgins Peters, Chief Peter Ojie, Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Signor Omang Idiege (Ada Bekwarra II), and critical stakeholders from the north.

    The love was massive, as evident in the large turnouts of community people at the various venues. Their message was unmistakable: Cross River State has a government that listens, and a Deputy Governor who delivers.

    Fred Abua, Esq.,
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State.
    03/09/2025

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

  • Dr Agbor Champions Education, Culture, and Youth Empowerment at 2025 Umung Cultural Day Festival

    Dr Agbor Champions Education, Culture, and Youth Empowerment at 2025 Umung Cultural Day Festival

    The Utugwang community in Obudu Local Government Area came alive on September 7th 2025, with the celebration of the maiden edition of the Umung Cultural Day Festival, a colorful event that showcased tradition, unity, and community spirit.

    This maiden edition focused on education and youth empowerment, thanks to the intervention of Dr. Godwin Agbor, Director of Omega Agbor Clinic and Maternity Ltd, Chairman of the Obudu Health and Anti-Quackery Committee, and a former APC aspirant for the Cross River State House of Assembly.

    As part of the festival highlights, Dr. Agbor awarded bursary to 70 students from Obudu, Bekwarra, and Obanliku Federal Constituency, describing the gesture as his way of supporting the ongoing strides of Governor Sen. (Apostle) Bassey Edet Otu in improving education and infrastructure across the state.

    The day also featured a novelty football match between Utugwang Central and Utugwang South Ward, which ended 1–0 in favor of Utugwang Central. Dr. Agbor donated ₦50,000 to the winning team and ₦20,000 to the runners-up, encouraging sportsmanship and youth engagement.

    Other activities included cultural dances, a new yam harvest competition, cooking contests, and the unveiling of the Utugwang Cultural Attire by the clan heads of Okworogung and Nkirira communities.

    Although Hon. Chief Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief of Staff to the Governor, could not attend to receive a scheduled Chieftaincy title, organizers assured he would get it at a later date.

    Speaking after the event, community leaders praised Dr. Agbor’s consistency in supporting educational initiatives, cultural preservation, and healthcare delivery. His active role in the festival, they noted, reflects a leadership style rooted in service and a commitment to the future of Obudu and the wider Cross River North region.

    The 2025 Umung Cultural Day Festival did not only celebrated tradition but also highlighted the growing role of leaders like Dr. Agbor in blending culture with development for the benefit of the people.

  • Jarigbe Commissions Seven Solar-Powered Boreholes in Obudu LGA

    Jarigbe Commissions Seven Solar-Powered Boreholes in Obudu LGA

     

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North Senatorial District, has commissioned seven solar-powered boreholes in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    This initiative is part of the Senator’s rural water project, aimed at addressing the critical water challenges in the district by providing clean water to constituents.

    Many communities in Cross River North face difficulties accessing basic water services, with families, especially women and children, often walking long distances to fetch water from unclean sources. This project directly addresses these gaps and promotes sustainability through local ownership and inclusive community engagement.

    The communities that benefited from this initiative include:

    1. Biwhe (Alege/Ubang)

    2. Ohong (Begiading Ward)

    3. Bebuatsuan (Ipong Ward)

    4. Karu (Ukpe Ward)

    5. Ukpada (Utugwang South)

    6. Indiabeb (Urban Ward 1)

    7. Bedia (Angiaba/Begiaka)

    Represented by the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, Senator Jarigbe noted that this project is an immediate response to the requests made by these communities. It aligns with his commitment to delivering infrastructural projects to rural areas in the Senatorial District. He reiterated that this initiative is one of several quick-impact projects aimed at contributing to national development by providing safe drinking water and promoting good hygiene to reduce waterborne diseases.

    Leaders and residents of Obudu Local Government Area have expressed their gratitude to the Senator for his kind and proactive gesture. They prayed for his continued success and promised to remain committed to supporting him in delivering more democratic dividends to the people.

    This project underscores the Senator’s dedication to improving the lives of his constituents and addressing their basic needs.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Hands Over Completed Solar-Powered Boreholes to Five Communities in Obanliku LGA

    Jarigbe Hands Over Completed Solar-Powered Boreholes to Five Communities in Obanliku LGA

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has handed over completed solar-powered boreholes to five communities in Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    This project is part of the Senator’s rural water initiative, aimed at addressing the challenges of access to potable water in the Senatorial District.

    The communities who benefited from this initiative include:

    Umale Community (Bendi Ward 2)

    Ablasang Community (Bishiri South)

    Busi 4 Community(Busi Ward)

    Besenge Community (Utanga Ward)

    Bebuenkayang Community (Bisu Ward)

    Represented by the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, Senator Jarigbe reaffirmed his commitment to providing welfare to his constituents through basic amenities such as healthcare facilities, education, agriculture, water, and more. He emphasized that he is a man of his word and urged constituents to continue supporting him to attract more infrastructural and human capital development to their communities.

    Community Chiefs, women, youths, and residents expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the Lawmaker for always responding to their calls for help. They pledged to continue supporting him and standing by him at all times.

    This gesture underscores the Senator’s dedication to improving the lives of his constituents and addressing their basic needs.

    TEAM JARI MEDI

  • Water for the People: Sen Jarigbe Agom’s Noble Intervention BY OGAR EMMANUEL OKO

    Water for the People: Sen Jarigbe Agom’s Noble Intervention BY OGAR EMMANUEL OKO

     

    In elementary science, we were taught that water is a universal solvent — capable of dissolving countless solutes. But its universality is not the crux of this piece; rather, it is water’s indispensability in the affairs of man.

    Again, in social studies, we were taught that water is one of the most important basic necessities of life, alongside food, clothing, shelter, security, healthcare, and education. One can survive without clothes, food, shelter, or even light for a while — but surviving without water is nearly impossible.

    Studies — or better put, common knowledge — show that a healthy adult can survive 30 to 60 days without food (provided there is access to water), but only 3 to 7 days without water.

    For those of us who lived in rural communities and experienced droughts, scarcity, and water shortages, it was a great relief when Senator Jarigbe Agom announced his intention to install 26 solar-powered boreholes across communities in the northern senatorial district. Back in the day, we trekked long distances to fetch water. And to get clean water, we often had to wake up before the cock crowed (around 4 a.m.) — the very hour our elders said spirits returned from their nightly activities.

    Today, in semi-urban areas like Igoli, Abakpa, Okuku, Yahe, Okpoma, and Obudu, most households still rely heavily on well water. In fact, there is no functional public water supply system or urban water scheme in the entire northern senatorial district. The dams in Ijegu and Obudu have become mere conduit pipes for financial embezzlement, while the water reservoir at Okpoma in Yala LGA has remained nonfunctional since inception.

    Currently, the main sources of water in the northern senatorial district are wells, ponds, brooks, streams, and rainwater ( most of which are seasonal). With the commissioning of 26 solar-powered boreholes later in the day, many communities will finally be freed from the manacles of water scarcity, gaining access to clean and safe drinking water.

    Sen. Jarigbe Agom deserves commendation for this noble project. No single individual has sunk as many boreholes as he has in Cross River State. By comparison, in the entire Calabar metropolis, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has only seven solar-powered boreholes. Only four out of the seven are functional. The rest belong to the state government and corporate organizations. Again, the Senator was quite discretional for choosing solar powered boreholes over electric powered ones because of its cost effectiveness, reliability, durability, energy dependent, easy to maintain and sustainability.

    As I commend the Senator for this laudable initiative, let me, on behalf of my community Ijegu Ojor, humbly appeal that our community be considered in the next phase of this project.

    Comr. Ogar Emmanuel Oko
    Rabbit Punch
    Writes from Lekki

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

  • C’River Central PDP Stakeholders Backs State Leadership, Frowns At The National Women Leader 

    C’River Central PDP Stakeholders Backs State Leadership, Frowns At The National Women Leader 

     

    By Ndifon Joseph – Calabar

    Stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State Central Senatorial District, have thrown their weight behind the position of the state leadership on elective positions, reaffirming their collective commitment to present a united front that will guarantee victory for the party.

    The endorsement formed part of a five-point communique reached during a well-attended meeting held at Planet Guest House, Calabar, on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

    In a communique signed by the National Ex-Officio, Arc. Ekom Akonjom, chapter chairmen, and leaders, they condemned the activities of “some former members who have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), but through the deliberate machinations of the National Women Leader, Ms. Amina Arong, has acquired nomination forms to contest positions in the forthcoming State Congress” with the intentions of moving the party structure to the ADC.

    They also “resolved to stand firmly by the position of the state leadership; which maintains that all elective positions in the senatorial district and local government areas should remain in their current domiciled locations.”

    Further, they “endorsed the zoning arrangements as earlier agreed, reiterated unflinching loyalty to the party and it’s leadership at the state and national level, and pledged to work assiduously to strengthen the party and ensure successes in all future elections.”

    The timely meeting was presided over by Chief Joe Obi Bisong, and in attendance were chapter chairmen and prominent leaders including, Mr. Fidelis Ekpah, South-South Zonal Ex-Officio, Prince Mike Ojisi, State Publicity Secretary, Barr. Ikpi Eyong Ubana, State Legal Adviser.

    Others include, Chief Mark Obi; Hon. Fred Okpa Osim; Hon. Friday Okpeche; Hon. Itam Abang; Hon. Moses Onoh; Mrs Ada Izani; Mr. Ayuk Ntui Tandu; Prof. Walter Mboto; Hon. Inah Ubi; Mrs Margaret Onen Ph.D, amongst others.

  • Owan Enoh MSME Support Program – How The Beneficiaries Will Be Selected.. BY AGBA JALINGO

    Owan Enoh MSME Support Program – How The Beneficiaries Will Be Selected.. BY AGBA JALINGO

     

    Entries for the Owan Enoh MSME Support Program have swelled over 12,000. This demonstrates not just acceptance but also exposes the yawning desire for a helping hand by Cross Riverians.

    I am also sure that many Cross Riverians are already wondering how exactly will beneficiaries be selected from such a massive pool. Many who think some privileged assessors will grab their pens to tick as many names off and plant their favored winners, have been calling, chatting and texting to lobby, to no avail. But I want to give you an idea of the painstaking work that is ongoing behind the scenes by the team that is assessing the entries.

    Stage One: CATEGORIZATION

    The entries are all being categorized into 14 different sectors, namely: Agriculture, Construction, Creative Arts, Education, Energy, Fashion Designing, Financial Services, Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Retail, ICT, Transportation, and Others. All these fourteen sectors have their drop down sub-sectors.

    Stage Two: ELIGIBILITY SCREENING

    This involves a general assessment using simple Yes/No responses. Any application that receives five (5) or more “No” responses will be automatically disqualified.

    Applications with more “Yes” responses will advance to the next stage.

    Some of the queries include:
    1. Residency / Location: Is the applicant or business based in Cross River State?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    2. MSME Definition:
    Does the business qualify as a micro, small, or medium enterprise (not a large enterprise)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    3. Sector Fit:
    Does the business fall within target sectors (trade, industry, services, artisanship, agriculture, etc.)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    4. Business Status:
    Is the business operational or is the business idea viable?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    5. Documentation:
    Has the applicant provided at least one proof of business (CAC registration, tax ID, cooperative membership, trade association ID, or any verifiable evidence)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    6. Application Completeness:
    Is the application form properly completed (all required fields answered, supporting documents attached)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    7. Previous Support:
    Has the applicant declared that they are not currently benefitting from another government MSME grant/loan that would make them ineligible for this fund?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    This stage is expected to reduce the number of entries to a manageable size of 3000-4000.

    Stage Three: APPRAISAL TEMPLATE

    This is the stage that involves the detailed scoring of each application. Applications are evaluated using the full scoring template. A 75% score serves as the cut-off mark for consideration.

    Each panel member independently scores the applications assigned to them and to ensure fairness and transparency, 15%–20% of each panelist’s assessment is randomly reassigned to another panelist for re-evaluation.

    This process helps us maintain integrity, fairness, and objectivity, ultimately leading to a near-perfect selection outcome.

    Some of the appraisal queries include:

    Business viability and feasibility, assess operations, sustainability
    (0-20).

    Clarity of concept, defined problem, feasibility, job creation and employment potential (0-15).

    Current and future staff, realistic market potential and growth prospects (0-15).

    Actual market performance, market research, identified customers, demand validation, financial management and sustainability (0-15).

    Cost structure, revenue model, funding strategy, social impact and inclusiveness (0-10).

    Intended or actual community/social benefits, innovation and creativity (0-10).

    Stronger emphasis for new business ideas: novelty, originality, problem-solving approach alignment with Owan Enoh MSME Fund objectives (0-10).

    CAC, Tax, NAFDAC, proposed business name readiness. Documentation and compliance (0-5)

    Total score, out of 100, will determine the final recommendation.

    Assessors have been duly briefed on prioritizing gender inclusion and urban-rural balance in the final selection to ensure fair spread between Calabar, other urban centers, and rural LGAs.

    Note again that no beneficiary in the formal sector will be given any cash. Whatever the applicants stated as the needs of their business will be procured and supplied to them. The same applies to the informal sector unless successful applicants who deal on perishable wares.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    (more…)