The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Jarigbe’s Bill to Establish Federal University of Education, Obudu, Passes Senate

    Jarigbe’s Bill to Establish Federal University of Education, Obudu, Passes Senate

     

    The Senate on Thursday passed a bill seeking to establish the Federal University of Education, Obudu, in Cross River State, marking a significant step towards expanding access to higher education and strengthening teacher education in Nigeria.

    The bill, sponsored by the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, was passed following the consideration and adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND.

    The Federal University of Education, Obudu, Cross River State Establishment Bill seeks to establish the institution as a specialised university dedicated to promoting and advancing teacher education in Nigeria.

    Presenting the committee’s report, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, Senator Muntari Dandutse (APC, Katsina South), said the proposed university would improve access to higher education and help address the growing demand for qualified teachers across the country.

    Senator Dandutse disclosed that the committee conducted a public hearing on the bill in May 2025, during which stakeholders expressed their support for the proposed establishment of the institution.

    Commending the passage of the bill, its sponsor, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, said the initiative was aimed at upgrading the existing Federal College of Education in Obudu into a federal university, thereby leveraging its existing infrastructure, facilities, and human resources to expand access to higher education.

    He added that the establishment of the university would create more learning opportunities and promote access to education without discrimination based on race, creed, sex, or political conviction.

    Senator Jarigbe also called on well-meaning sons and daughters of Cross River North Senatorial District to support the initiative and sustain the collective efforts towards ensuring that the bill receives presidential assent from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “I am confident that Mr President understands the importance of this bill and will not let our people down. That is why we are going to support him,” Senator Jarigbe added.

    The Senator reiterates his commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the bill receives presidential assent, paving the way for the establishment of the Federal University of Education, Obudu, for the benefit of present and future generations.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Ultramodern Police Building in Ogoja

    Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Ultramodern Police Building in Ogoja

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated the construction of an ultramodern police building at the Ogoja Area Command as part of efforts to improve security infrastructure and enhance police operations across the district.

    The project is expected to provide police personnel with a more conducive working environment, improve their welfare and strengthen the operational capacity of the Ogoja Area Command.

    The commencement of the project was formally marked by the handover of the site to the contractor by Mr. Egar Mgbantul, who represented Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. The handover ceremony took place in the presence of the Area Commander, ACP Collins Ekougu, and other police officials.

    Speaking during the event, Mgbantul said the facility would provide a more suitable environment for police personnel to carry out their duties effectively.

    He noted that the initiative reflects the senator’s commitment to improving security infrastructure and supporting efforts to promote public safety across Cross River North Senatorial District.

    “Through this intervention, we aim to enhance police operations, improve personnel welfare, strengthen security coordination, and provide a safer environment for residents and businesses,” Mgbantul stated

    In his remarks, the Area Commander, ACP Collins Ekougu, expressed appreciation to the senator for facilitating the project, describing investments in security infrastructure as important to improving the working conditions and effectiveness of security personnel.

    He noted that a well-equipped and functional working environment would help officers discharge their responsibilities more efficiently.
    Upon completion, the facility is expected to improve service delivery at the Ogoja Area Command and support ongoing efforts to maintain law and order in the area.

    The project also underscores the importance of infrastructure development in strengthening police operations, improving institutional capacity and enhancing the response of security agencies to emerging security concerns.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • City Boy Movement Begins Cross River Tour, Inaugurates LG Offices October 27

    City Boy Movement Begins Cross River Tour, Inaugurates LG Offices October 27

     

    The City Boy Movement in Cross River State will commence a statewide tour on October 27, 2026, with the inauguration of local government offices and registration centres as part of efforts to expand its grassroots presence and strengthen its organizational structure across the state.

    The tour will begin in the Northern Senatorial District, with visits to Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku on October 27, followed by Ogoja and Yala on October 28.

    The Movement will proceed to the Central Senatorial District on October 29, covering Ikom, Boki and Etung, before visiting Obubra, Yakurr and Abi on October 30.

    Beyond the inauguration of offices, the tour will provide an opportunity to mobilize new members and encourage interested residents to formally register with the Movement. It will also feature engagements focused on communicating the gains of the policies and reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Administration, alongside Governor Bassey Otu’s People First agenda.

    The statewide exercise forms part of the Movement’s efforts to build its grassroots network and engage communities ahead of the 2027 general elections. It will also serve as a platform to familiarize residents with the programmes and priorities of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidates.

    The City Boy Movement calls on its members, supporters and interested residents across the scheduled local government areas to participate actively in the exercise and support efforts to establish functional registration centres across the state.

    Signed:

    Comrade Inyali Peter, Ph.D.
    State Director of Media
    City Boy Movement, Cross River State

  • Jarigbe Felicitates Cross River Governor Bassey Otu on 67th Birthday

    Jarigbe Felicitates Cross River Governor Bassey Otu on 67th Birthday

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has congratulated the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on the occasion of his 67th birthday, praising his leadership, humility and commitment to the development of the state.

    In a goodwill message marking the governor’s birthday, Senator Jarigbe commended Otu for his courage, wisdom and selfless service, describing these qualities as hallmarks of a true statesman.

    The federal lawmaker also applauded the governor’s compassion, humility and dedication to promoting renewed hope, unity and a shared sense of purpose among the people of Cross River State.

    Jarigbe noted that the birthday celebration went beyond marking another year in the governor’s life, stressing that it was also an opportunity to reflect on the impact of his leadership and service on the people of the state.

    According to him, Governor Otu’s contributions to Cross River State have continued to distinguish him as a leader committed to the welfare and progress of the people.

    “Your name is indelibly etched in the annals of Cross River State through your noble deeds, transformative leadership, and unwavering devotion to the welfare and progress of all. May God Almighty bless you with sound health, abiding peace, renewed strength, and abundant fulfilment,” Jarigbe stated.

    The senator further wished the governor many more years of good health, peace, wisdom and strength to continue serving Cross River State and Nigeria.

    He expressed hope that Otu would continue to provide purposeful leadership and contribute to the growth, unity and development of the state.

    Jarigbe concluded his message by wishing the governor a happy 67th birthday, celebrating his years of service and contributions to Cross River State.

  • PMT, JariLeaque Coalition Celebrate His Excellency, Prince Bassey Otu, On His 67th Birthday

    PMT, JariLeaque Coalition Celebrate His Excellency, Prince Bassey Otu, On His 67th Birthday

     

    A Celebration of Leadership, Service, and Renewed Hope

    The People’s Movement for Tinubu & Shettima (PMT), Cross River State Chapter, and JARILEAGUE COALITION Worldwide heartily felicitate His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, on the joyous occasion of his 67th birthday.

    This remarkable milestone offers us an opportunity to celebrate His Excellency and acknowledge his efforts toward the development and advancement of Cross River State.

    We recognise the importance of his administration’s focus on critical sectors, including education, security, investment, commerce, healthcare, skills acquisition, and agricultural development, particularly through support for farmers and initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods.

    As he celebrates another year of life, we acknowledge the significance of purposeful leadership, dedication to public service, and the continued pursuit of sustainable development for the people of Cross River State.

    On this special occasion, we pray that Almighty God will continue to grant His Excellency long life, sound health, divine wisdom, greater strength, and abundant grace to discharge the responsibilities of his high office. May his days be filled with peace, fulfilment, and renewed inspiration to serve humanity.

    On behalf of all members and supporters of PMT and JARILEAGUE COALITION, we extend our warmest felicitations and best wishes to His Excellency on this glorious occasion.

    May the years ahead bring greater accomplishments, enduring peace, and continued progress for Cross River State and its people.

    Congratulations and many happy returns!

    E-SIGNED:
    PROF. EGAGA PATRICK
    For: People’s Movement for Tinubu & Shettima (PMT), Cross River State Chapter, and JARILEAGUE COALITION Worldwide.

  • PMT, JariLeaque Coalition, Egaga Congratulates Prof Odey, Etubom Bassey Ndem’s Emergence As DG, Secretary

    PMT, JariLeaque Coalition, Egaga Congratulates Prof Odey, Etubom Bassey Ndem’s Emergence As DG, Secretary

     

    The Cross River State Chairman of The People’s Movement for Tinubu & Shettima, Convener of JARILEAGUE COALITION and foundational supporter of HE Prince Bassey Otu, Prof EGAGA Patrick, has congratulated the duo of Prof. Stephen Odey and Etubom Arch. Bassey Ndem for emerging as Director-General and Secretary respectively, of the Cross River State APC Campaign Council.

    In a statement, Prof EGAGA described their emergence as “percolated, well distilled and brewed” pointing out that their appointments are a “striking symbolism and consumate marriage between the formal and informal sectors”.

    Egaga assured indigenes and residents in Cross River State that “Prince Otu’s Second Missionary Journey will certainly witness bountiful yields as the administration is gradually recovering from the miasma, quagmire and maldevelopment it inherited”

    He equally assured the Cross River State APC Campaingn Council of maximum support and collaboration of the People’s Movement for Tinubu, led by Alhaji Abubakar Ahmed and Hon. Suleiman Dodo Abubakar as well as solid backing from the leadership and teeming followership of the JARILEAGUE COALITION Worldwide.

    Prof. EGAGA however charged the Campaigning Council to be ” honest, prudent and, necessarily, incorporate other notable and visible Support Groups” .

  • Odey Celebrates His Principal, Cross River Governor Bassey Otu, at 67, Hails Leadership and Development Efforts

    Odey Celebrates His Principal, Cross River Governor Bassey Otu, at 67, Hails Leadership and Development Efforts

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, has celebrated his principal and Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on the occasion of his 67th birthday, commending his leadership and efforts towards the development of the state.

    In a birthday tribute, Odey described Governor Otu as a leader who epitomises “purposeful leadership, discipline, and an uncommon sense of duty,” noting that his administration had confronted longstanding challenges with courage.

    The deputy governor praised his principal’s efforts to rehabilitate decaying infrastructure across the state, highlighting developments in roads, public facilities, housing, power, water, and other essential services.

    According to Odey, the administration’s approach demonstrates that development is not merely about promises but about deliberate action and visible results.

    He also commended Governor Otu’s commitment to strengthening security and restoring public confidence, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains essential to the growth of education, commerce, agriculture, and investment.

    “By rightly prioritising security, you have demonstrated that a secure environment is the foundation for education, commerce, agriculture, and investment,” Odey stated.

    Beyond infrastructure and security, the deputy governor acknowledged the governor’s focus on agriculture, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, skills acquisition, and support for farmers and agribusinesses.

    He further highlighted efforts to revive Tinapa and strengthen Cally Air, describing these initiatives as worthy of commendation. He also praised the governor’s commitment to restoring facilities at Obudu Mountain Resort and enhancing the state’s tourism potential.

    Reflecting on their partnership in serving the state, Odey expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Governor Otu, describing him as a man of good conscience and piety who remained steadfast in the face of praise and criticism.

    “I am honoured to have embarked on this journey of service with Your Excellency,” the deputy governor said, adding that he was proud to share in the recognition arising from the governor’s leadership and its contribution to the progress of Cross River State.

    Odey also offered prayers for his principal, asking God to grant him greater strength, wisdom, good health, and compassion to continue leading the state to greater heights.

    “May He sustain you in all your endeavours, and may your leadership remain a beacon of hope for us all,” he prayed.

    The deputy governor concluded by wishing Governor Otu a happy 67th birthday and expressing hope for sustained progress and development across Cross River State.

  • Cross River Diaspora Commission Secretary, Elizabeth Greene Seeks Global Partnerships for State Development

    Cross River Diaspora Commission Secretary, Elizabeth Greene Seeks Global Partnerships for State Development

     

    The Secretary of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, Mrs. Elizabeth Greene, has said her participation in the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 2026) in New York has opened strategic international opportunities for the development of Cross River State.

    Greene, who was part of the Nigerian delegation led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, disclosed this in a communique outlining her engagements during the UN High-Level Week.

    The 2026 UN General Assembly was held under the theme, “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”

    According to Greene, Nigeria’s delegation included four governors, Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Babagana Zulum of Borno State as well as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, members of the Federal Executive Council and other senior government officials.

    She said a major highlight of Nigeria’s participation was the delivery of President Bola Tinubu’s National Statement by Vice President Shettima on September 24.

    Greene said the statement focused on issues including reform of the United Nations, international peace and security, climate action, technology and sustainable development.

    She noted that Nigeria renewed its call for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council, including at least two permanent seats with veto rights for Africa in line with the Ezulwini Consensus, as well as five non-permanent seats.

    The Vice President, she added, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to international peace and security, highlighting the country’s contributions to peace efforts in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali and The Gambia.

    He also called for stronger international action against terrorism, cyber attacks and illicit financial flows, according to Greene.

    On Climate Action and Cross River’s Ecological Challenges, Greene said Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, with emphasis on renewable energy, clean cooking and climate-smart agriculture, had particular relevance to Cross River State because of its biodiversity and agricultural potential.

    She, however, stressed that climate action was not merely a global policy issue for Cross River but an immediate development and survival concern.

    According to her, the state delegation used the UNGA platform to draw international attention to the devastating landslides and severe gully erosion threatening lives, communities and infrastructure across the Calabar metropolis. Greene said greater access to sub-national climate financing would be critical to addressing the ecological challenges confronting the state.

    The Diaspora Commission Secretary also disclosed that the Cross River delegation held engagements on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly with Heads of State, country representatives and other international stakeholders.

    She said discussions were ongoing on ways to connect Cross River State to international opportunities in trade and investment, agriculture, tourism and diaspora engagement.

    Among the opportunities identified, she said, were the possibility of establishing a maritime corridor between Calabar and Ghanaian ports in Accra and Takoradi.

    Other areas include leveraging the Calabar Free Trade Zone to attract West African manufacturers, developing cooperation in cocoa processing and value addition, and creating tourism partnerships linking Ghana’s heritage sites with Cross River’s Obudu Mountain Resort and the Calabar Carnival.

    Greene clarified that the initiatives were not concluded agreements but strategic opportunities that would require federal approvals, private-sector participation and sustained institutional engagement.

    She expressed appreciation to Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, for his support and policy direction under the administration’s People First agenda.

    She also thanked Vice President Shettima for the opportunity to serve as part of the Nigerian delegation to the global gathering. Greene said her UNGA experience had reinforced the importance of strengthening the connection between Cross River State, its diaspora and the international community.

    She said the objective should be to translate international relationships and global engagements into tangible outcomes, including jobs, investment and sustainable development for the people of Cross River State.

  • Northern Stakeholders Back Otu’s Second Term, Demand Bloc Votes for Tinubu

    Northern Stakeholders Back Otu’s Second Term, Demand Bloc Votes for Tinubu

     

    Stakeholders across the five Local Government Areas of Cross River State’s Northern Senatorial District have endorsed Governor Bassey Edet Otu for a second term and pledged to mobilise bloc votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sen. Agom Jarigbe and other APC candidates in the 2027 elections.

    The endorsement was made at a stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Cross River State Consultative Forum at the Ogoja Local Government Council Headquarters.

    The event, which drew political leaders, traditional rulers, youths, women and other stakeholders from Ogoja, Obanliku, Obudu, Yala and Bekwarra, was preceded by a sensitisation walk from Ajegunle Junction to the council headquarters.

    Speaking at the gathering, former Cross River State Governor and Chairman of the Elders Advisory Council, Chief Clement Ebri, said the exercise was primarily aimed at obtaining first-hand information on the performance of the Otu administration.
    Ebri said the team would also engage stakeholders privately to enable them raise concerns that might not be expressed publicly.

    “We are more like a fact-finding team,” he said, explaining that Governor Otu had asked the council to provide honest advice on his administration and was willing to make amends where genuine shortcomings were identified.

    He appealed to the people to remain patient with the administration, citing the infrastructure deficits and other challenges accumulated over the years.

    Ebri also commended Otu for his efforts towards restoring Cross River’s oil-producing status.

    Speaking on the 2027 elections, the former governor urged stakeholders in the Northern Senatorial District to mobilise support for both Otu and Tinubu, stressing that a strong bloc vote for the President would strengthen the governor’s influence and bargaining power at the national level.

    Chairman of the Consultative Forum, Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, described the Ogoja meeting as the forum’s first engagement in the Northern Senatorial District.

    Ekpo said the gathering was not a campaign rally but a platform for stakeholders to assess the administration and deliberate on the future of the state.

    He said the stakeholders’ response amounted to a strong endorsement of Otu’s second-term ambition and urged them to sustain mobilisation for the governor and Tinubu ahead of 2027.

    He also called for constructive and fact-based assessment of government performance, as well as peaceful political engagement.

    The State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Rt. Hon. Chris Etta, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Ugana Lukpata, urged the party to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the elections.

    Etta said the APC must reach beyond its membership base to secure victory, declaring that “we cannot record anything below five over five” in support of the party’s candidates.

    He highlighted ongoing projects across the Northern Senatorial District and linked the restoration of Cross River’s oil-producing status to the improved relationship between the state and Federal Government.

    According to Etta, Cross River now has 46 oil wells in its coffers, with exploration and exploitation already underway.

    He urged the people to continue supporting Otu and Tinubu to sustain what he described as the gains recorded by the state.

    In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the stakeholders acknowledged ongoing projects and other interventions by the Otu administration.

    They endorsed continuity for both Tinubu and Otu, while calling for the completion of ongoing projects and increased attention to the development needs of the Northern Senatorial District.

    The stakeholders also resolved to intensify grassroots mobilisation, promote peaceful political engagement and sustain consultations with communities and political stakeholders.

    They reaffirmed their support for Tinubu, Otu and other APC candidates at the national, state and local government levels.

    The communiqué , which was read and moved as a motion by Prof. Mike Okom and seconded and strongly supported by Prof. EGAGA Patrick, was unanimously accepted and adopted by the more than 1000 participants and signed byBarr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo; the Forum’s Secretary, Dr Julius Okputu; Chairman of the Drafting Committee, Ntufam (Barr.) Fidelis Ugbo; and Secretary, Prof. Michael Okom.

  • Petroleum Tanker Explodes After Crash in Odukpani

    Petroleum Tanker Explodes After Crash in Odukpani

     

    A petroleum tanker overturned and caught fire on Sunday opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat in Odukpani, Cross River State, with the inferno spreading to nearby shops and buildings.

    The Cross River State Police Command, in a preliminary incident update, said the tanker was conveying petroleum products when it was involved in a road traffic accident and overturned, resulting in the fire.

    According to the police, the tanker driver, who was reportedly trapped in the fire, was rescued and taken to a hospital for medical attention.

    Police officers from the Odukpani Division were deployed to the scene to secure the area, maintain public safety and prevent further harm, while the Fire Service was alerted to contain and extinguish the blaze.

    As of the time of the police report, no death had been confirmed, although several shops and vehicles were reportedly affected by the fire.

    The police urged residents and other members of the public to stay away from the immediate area and allow emergency responders unhindered access to the scene.

    The Command said further information would be released as verified details become available.

    The preliminary update was signed by ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, PPRO, Cross River State Command.