The Lumine News

Author: The Lumine News

  • GOV Otu Set To Undertake Renovation Of NYSC Orientation Camp

    GOV Otu Set To Undertake Renovation Of NYSC Orientation Camp

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu, is set to change the face of the Orientation camp with total renovation project for the betterment of Corps members deployed to the State.

    The governor made the disclosure during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch C stream 1 Corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Obubra Cross River State.

    Sen Bassey Otu who represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr Ijom Ukam, undertook a thorough camp inspection to access the dilapidated nature of the camp facilities.

    He however charged Corps members to carry out laudable community projects in the state that will stand them out for state and National honours award.

    The Chief judge of Cross River State, Hon Justice Akon Ikpeme who was represented by His Worship, Magistrate Eno Iyamba, of the Cross River state Judiciary, administered the oath of Allegiance on the Corps members.

    Earlier in her opening address, the state Coordinator of NYSC Cross River state, Mrs Onyenuga Mojisola Joke, Congratulated Corps members on their successful completion of their various academic programmes that have earned them the status of Corps members. She also used the avenue to appreciate the Government of Cross River State for the previous support to the scheme and appealed for more welfare packages to Corps members deployed to the state as well as their personal security.

    Also speaking at the occasion, the Council Chairman of Obubra local Government Area, Hon Kingsley Arikpo assured Corps members of their safety and promised a good working relationship with the NYSC management.

    The event also featured side attraction such as man O war display by Corps members to thrill the guests.

  • Calabar-Itu Road: Long Awaited Solution In Sight? BY INYALI PETER

    Calabar-Itu Road: Long Awaited Solution In Sight? BY INYALI PETER

     

    In 2016, I wrote an article titled “A Good Friend is Better Than A Bad Brother,” where I commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his swift remedial work on the dilapidated Calabar-Itu road, just eighteen months into his administration. I aptly described him as a good friend, drawing a contrast with former President Jonathan, whom I labeled a bad brother due to his administration’s lack of meaningful infrastructure development in the state, including the neglect of the same road during his six-year presidency.

    The remedial work, undertaken by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) at the time which earned President Buhari my commendation, unfortunately, did not yield lasting results. Like many roads in Southern Nigeria, it deteriorated rapidly, becoming worse than its original state within a year or even less. Although the administration subsequently awarded contracts for the road’s total reconstitution and expansion, progress has been slow, giving the impression that the project was neglected.

    Contractors had all but abandoned the site and the people who were supposed to put pressure on government to ensure work continues seemd distracted by the high-profile Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project. A senior citizen recently joked during interaction that it appeared the coastal highway has diverted attention and resources away from the Calabar-Itu road. However, this is changing after Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South, moved a motion of urgent national importance, urging the Senate to investigate the project’s slow progress. This audacious motion is gradually bringing the much-needed attention back to the road.

    Yesterday’s investigative hearing by the Senate’s special committee was truly satisfying to watch. The attention given to the deplorable condition of the major road which connects Nigeria’s paradise city, Calabar, to other southern parts of the country is unprecedented, except perhaps when the Buhari administration initiated remedial work and mobilized contractors to commence reconstruction.

    The senate investigation won’t magically fix the road overnight, but it will uncover the reasons behind the project’s delay and pave the way for solutions. Given the caliber of the person leading the federal ministry of works and with the support of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio who hails from Akwa Ibom State, it’s likely that the committee’s recommendations will be swiftly implemented to ensure the project’s speedy completion.

    I commend Sen. Ekpenyong for his zeal, enthusiasm and passion for the development of the state. His drive has not only yielded tangible results in attraction of projects and empowerment programmes for Cross RiverSouth, he has been a strong advocate for the people, effectively drawing the federal government’s attention to critical development issues in the state through impactful motions and bills

    It’s also worth acknowledging the vital roles played by the state’s other two senators, Sen. Eteng Jones and Sen. Jarigbe Agom. Their collective efforts have ensured that the Senate and indeed the government is giving attention to this road and other deplorable federal roads infrastructure the state. The desire of most Cross Riverians have always been to see our leaders collaborate beyond partisan politics in the interests of the masses and there couldn’t be a better example than what’s happening with this project.

    Similarly, the efforts of the Senators is coming on the hills of the news that Governor Bassey Otu has approved N400 million for compensation payments to Cross Riverians affected by the reconstruction process. Contrary to longstanding rumour that a previous administration had rejected a request from neighbouring Akwa Ibom state to reconstruct the road and seek reimbursement from the state, this development shows the Otu administration’s commitment to supporting the project’s successful completion.

    As we await the outcome of the Senate’s investigation and the subsequent implementation of the recommended solutions, I fervently pray that the collective efforts of our leaders at all levels will yield a better result this time around. It is my heartfelt desire that the notorious road, which has become death trap, will finally be fixed to unlock the state’s economic potential and bringing relief to commuters.

    Also, I prepare this efforts will also extended to the almost impassable Calabar-Ikom-Ogoja road. Undoubtedly, a functional road network will not only boost trade and commerce within and outside the state but also improve the overall quality of life for the people of Cross River State.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

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

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom Eulogizes Wayas as Senate Holds Valedictory Session In His Honour

    Sen Jarigbe Agom Eulogizes Wayas as Senate Holds Valedictory Session In His Honour

     

    In a heartfelt tribute, the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has eulogized the late former President of the Senate, Senator Dr. Joseph Wayas, as the Nigerian Senate holds Valedictory Session in his honour today, November 28, 2024.

    In a solemn event where Lawmakers paid their last respect to their departed colleague, Senator Jarigbe praised Wayas’ remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and development, describing him as a “Statesman in his own class”.

    Dr. Wayas, a respected politician and former President of the Senate, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service to the Nation. The Senate’s Valedictory Session is a befitting tribute to his memory and a celebration of his achievements as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Senator Jarigbe’s eulogy highlighted Wayas’ commitment to the well-being of Nigerians and his tireless efforts to promote peace, stability, and progress in the country. The Senator’s heartfelt words reflected the high esteem in which Wayas is held by his Colleagues, Constituents and the Nation at large, while he appreciated the Cross River State Government for honoring the icon with a State Funeral.

    As the Senate pays its respect to Wayas, Nigerians are reminded of the importance of honouring the memories of their leaders and celebrating their contributions to the Nation’s growth and development.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA.

  • C’River NYCN: Olayi Holds Enlarged Stakeholders/Youth Leadership Meeting, Extol Gov Otu’s Magnanimity To Youth

    C’River NYCN: Olayi Holds Enlarged Stakeholders/Youth Leadership Meeting, Extol Gov Otu’s Magnanimity To Youth

     

    The State Chairman of the National Youth council of Nigeria, Cross River State chapter, His Youthfulness Obol Comr. Emmanuel Olayi has poured encomium on the Governor of Cross River State Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu for being youth friendly and expeditiously responding to the challenges of Cross River youths.

    Olayi made the remarks during an NYCN Stakeholders Roundtable Engagement held at the Cross River Youth house in calabar, where he disbursed subvention to NYCN State officers, local Government coordinators, ward councillors and voluntary youth Organizations, Youth Parliament among other groups to mark another great achievement of the council in the administration of Sen. Prince Bassey Otu.

    He further implored young Cross Riverans to set aside ethic divergence, party interest, sentiments and support every pro-youth development initiative of the Sen. Prince Bassey EDET Otu’s administration, as to enable them contribute their youthful energies and adapt to changes to make the Government succeed in delivering her vision for Cross River State which in turn would benefit the youth through elevating them into several positions of leadership and making them independent.

    He reeled out the achievements of the Council since his inception as State Chairman to include, collaborating with the Cross River State Ministry of Youth development in mobilizing 1,000 young persons for a 3-month ICT training sponsored by the World Bank, Discouraged Cross River youth from joining the nationwide hunger protest in October through working collaboratively with relevant agencies to dialogue with young persons for the general sustenance by of peace and protection of critical state infrastructures.

    The council Chairman further stated that as a team, they deemed it a necessity to respond to health challenges of Cross Riverans and this led them to organizing a free medical outreach for the host community of the Youth house which over 100 persons from the community benefitted from the medical outreach. Medications, counselling and health education that were offered to them without fees, while the Governor’s wife in her goodwill and support to the council, sponsored patients who’s conditions required surgical operation. Extensively he said, the Cross River State Chapter of NYCN had engaged and made representation on the Calabar-Itu road before the Minister of Youth Development and was optimistic that the Minister had followed it up with relevant federal government agencies responsible for the rehabilitation of the road.

    The Chairman in another applaudable speech, mentioned the result bearing engagement the council had with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture which led to the selection of 25 young Cross Riverans who are presently being camped in Port Harcourt and are undergoing training on different agricultural value-chain.

    On the just concluded Local Government elections, the NYCN Chairman informed that “the Council advocated for young people to participate, and he was happy to announce that across party lines, young persons have been given privileges to run for offices and an encouraging number of them have been elected into offices, serving as Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, Councillors, and some made leaders of legislative councils.

    Emphasizing inclusivity as the thrust of the current NYCN leadership, Comrade Olayi announced that the council would unveil a structure to cater for people with special needs on the 3rd of December, 2024. He also said that there are ongoing plans to organize a youth summit in 2025, where young persons would engage with the government as an offshoot of the dialogue the council had during the hunger protest. He went further to announce plans to constituted the State Advisory Council and requested nominations from the Local Government Chapters.

    In her remarks, the Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth Development, Lady Jane Frances Kamgba, commended the youths for conducting themselves in a peaceful manner during the NYCN election, urging them to continue to be orderly as they represent the future of the State.

    She also commended the Chairman of the Council, His Youthfulness Comrade Emmanuel Olayi for showing leadership in his engagements within and outside the state, while assuring the NYCN of continued support from her ministry to enable the council achieve it’s mandate.

    The round table engagement was attended by past and serving stakeholders of the council, voluntary Youth Organizations, Government officials, private entrepreneurs, clergy men and Youth of Cross River State.

    Comr. Olayi also thanked Governor Bassey Otu and his wife for their Godly forthright leadership that has given Cross River a facelift through addressing the issues of damaged infrastructures, extirpated insecurity from the State, and given Cross Riverians a conducive environment to do business and prosper, assured them of consummate support from the National Youth council of Nigeria.

  • C’River Women Parliament Pledges Commitment To Implementation Of Local Content Act

    C’River Women Parliament Pledges Commitment To Implementation Of Local Content Act

     

    Members of The Cross River State Women Parliament participated in a one-day stakeholders’ engagement and sensitization workshop focused on the implementation of the Local Content Act in Cross River State. The event organized by the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Content aimed to educate and mobilize stakeholders to effectively integrate and leverage the provisions of the Local Content Act for the benefit of local communities, particularly women and other underrepresented groups.

    The engagement highlighted the importance of inclusivity of local content in economic activities, ensuring that local businesses and individuals have equitable opportunities in sectors affected by the Act.

    Discussions likely covered strategies for capacity building, resource allocation, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance with the Act.

    Speaking at the event, amongst other speakers, the Speaker of the Cross River State Women Parliament, Rt. Hon. Fiona Ekpenyong, assured the Special Adviser on Local Content of their commitment to carrying out grassroots advocacy and sensitization on the Local Content Act. The Speaker emphasized the need for widespread awareness and education about the Act and its implementation, ensuring that local communities, especially women at the grassroots level, understand its provisions and how they can benefit from it.

    In his response, the Special Adviser on Local Content, Amb. Awatt Caleb, expressed gratitude to the participants for their active engagement and valuable contributions during the event. He acknowledged the issues and recommendations raised and promised to address them to ensure the effective utilization of local content in Cross River State.

    The Special Adviser reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowering local stakeholders, emphasizing that their feedback will play a vital role in shaping policies and actions for the successful implementation of the Local Content Act in the state.

    This participation underscores the commitment of the Cross River State Women Parliament to advocate for policies and programs that empower women and promote sustainable development at the grassroots level.

    Effiom Gertrude

  • Comptroller Ochelebe bags Distinguished Security Icon Award

    Comptroller Ochelebe bags Distinguished Security Icon Award

     

    Cross River State Security Adviser (SSA) North, Comptroller Joseph Ochelebe, was on Saturday 23rd November, 2024 honoured with another DISTINGUISHED ICON OF SECURITY AWARD by African Custodian Awards. The outstanding award is in recognition of his exemplary leadership in providing security and public service to the people of Cross River North.

    The glamorous ceremony which was the largest gathering of icons of Africa’s development tagged “Celebrating Icons of Africa’s Development” brought together the crème de la crème across Africa and offered a unique platform for social and corporate networking as well as a fertile ground for corporate and product branding.

    Comptroller Ochelebe, who doubled as the special guest of honour having won the award recently was presented the prestigious plague at the Lagos State Chambers of Commerce and Industry, LCCI Building, Alausa, Ikeja-Lagos.

    Speaking after receiving the award, Ochelebe expressed gratitude to the organisers saying “I am exceedingly delighted to stand before you today at the 2024 African Custodian Awards, an event thoughtfully organised by one of our nation’s most esteemed media professional and organisation in journalism and communication.”

    Ochelebe’ also said, “I extend my gratitude to my State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu for finding me worthy of appointment after retirement, to my lovely wife, Mrs Juliet Ogar Ochelebe for always standing by me and to the organisers of the event which has become a motivational platform for young officers in the security architecture of the nation”.

    The award on Ochelebe, according to the organizers is in recognition of his remarkable impact, excellent performance as State Security Adviser (North) and the recorded successes against emerging internal threats in Cross River North.

    “Sir, you have been found worthy to be awarded for the: ICON OF SECURITY AWARD for the second time. The decision for this award is anchored on your professionalism, pragmatism, patriotism, selfless service and commitment to the protection of lives and properties of persons and businesses in Cross River North”.

    Ochelebe’s recognition adds to his catalogue of accolades, affirming his status as a key player in the field of security in Africa, while specially playing a key role in ensuring the safety and security of lives and properties in Cross River North.

  • Governor Otu Appeals to Workers to Suspend Planned Two-Day Warning Strike

    Governor Otu Appeals to Workers to Suspend Planned Two-Day Warning Strike

     

    Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu has called on organized labour in the state to reconsider its planned two-day warning strike scheduled to commence from midnight of Sunday the 24th of November, to Tuesday 26th November, 2024.

    Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this appeal during the 5th edition of the State Solemn Assembly held on Saturday at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar.

    “Governor Otu prioritizes the welfare of the workforce,” Odey stated. “In light of this, I appeal to the leadership of organized labour, along with all affiliates of the NLC and TUC, to suspend their planned state-wide strike, and I enjoin them to support the Governor in his quest to improve the lot of our people”.

    Highlighting the progress made since the inception of the Solemn Assembly, Odey emphasized that Governor Otu is committed to building a better Cross River for the benefit of all citizens. He urged Cross Riverians to sustain their support and prayers for the administration to achieve its ‘People First’ mantra in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President, Bola Tinubu.

    Odey noted significant infrastructural improvements across the state’s three senatorial districts, including road construction and renovation, the rehabilitation of the Governor’s Office, the State Library, and government lodges in Calabar, Abuja, and Lagos. He assured the Cross Riverians that the administration is equally focused on enhancing the Health, Agriculture, and Education sectors to ensure the welfare of the state’s citizens.

    Speaking further, Odey intimated that Governor Otu is committed to improve conditions for both serving and retired workers. These include clearing backlogs of gratuities, regularizing pension payments, and implementing overdue worker promotions. He also mentioned that Cross River State was among the first states in Nigeria to increase the minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦40,000, even before the Federal Government’s recent announcement of a ₦70,000 new national minimum wage.

    In his homily, the Guest Preacher and Founder of Streams of Joy International, Pastor Jerry Eze, delivered a message on the theme, “Ebenezer: A State Helped by God.” He urged Christians, particularly those in leadership positions, to lead with the fear of God and embody Christlike values in their actions.

    Pastor Eze praised the state’s administration for organizing the solemn assembly, highlighting its commitment to seeking God’s guidance. He noted that Cross River is one of the few states that prioritize putting “God First.”

     

    Highlight of the event was a special prayer session offered for the Governor and his family, Deputy Governor, State Executive Council members, traditional rulers, and other top government officials.

    Fred Abua, Esq.,
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State
    23:11:2024

  • Senator Jarigbe Flags Off Busangfong Road Project, Tasks Contractor On Quality Job

    Senator Jarigbe Flags Off Busangfong Road Project, Tasks Contractor On Quality Job

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has flagged off the Busangfong-Ikom road project in Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    At the ceremony, Constituency Officer Mr. Egar Mgbantul, representing the Senator, emphasized that the project fulfills the lawmaker’s commitment to enhancing living conditions through infrastructural development.

    Mr. Mgbantul expressed gratitude to the people of Busangfong for their patience, support, and cooperation, highlighting that the project aims to facilitate easy access to major markets in Cross River North and Central Senatorial Districts.

    The Clan Head of Bisu 1, HRM Chief Gabriel Adachi, prayed for Senator Jarigbe, thanking him for empowering communities and constituents. He assured the lawmaker of continued support.

    Other dignitaries in attendance include; Hon. (Chief) Pius Ashakia, Hon. Justin Adida, Mr. Adie Emmanuel Ishiekwen, Esther Esang and Elder Anthony Jombo, amongst others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Former Gov Ben Ayade Special Adviser, Boniface Ishamali Defects To PDP With Supporters In Obudu

    Former Gov Ben Ayade Special Adviser, Boniface Ishamali Defects To PDP With Supporters In Obudu

     

    There is excitement in the camp of the Obudu Local Government Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, as the party receives key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) back to the fold.

    Among the prominent APC stakeholders who returned is the former Senior Special Adviser Petroleum, and Chairman Downstream, Hon. Boniface Ishamali.

    Speaking on behalf of other defectors, Hon. Ishamali said their decision to return to the PDP was informed by the need to belong to a party that remains the number one choice of Cross River North Senatorial District since the return of democratic rule in 1999.

    He appreciated the PDP for the great achievement recorded in the Senatorial District under the leadership of Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and for always putting the people’s interest above other considerations as well, for receiving them back into the party with open arms.

    “PDP has been my party. I was in APC briefly for sabbatical and I realized the APC has nothing to offer crossiverians and Nigeria as a party which is why I have returned to work tirelessly for the betterment of our people with the support of our leaders in the North”, Boniface added.

    He specifically commended Senator Jarigbe’s leadership style and expressed the optimism that, the exceptional way he has led the party would translate into more resounding electoral victories in subsequent elections in the Senatorial District and State at large.

    The Cross River State PDP is set to receive more defections in the coming weeks.

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom, Leader Of CRS PDP Addresses Party Faithfuls On Suspension Of The State Chairman, Vena Ikem

    Sen Jarigbe Agom, Leader Of CRS PDP Addresses Party Faithfuls On Suspension Of The State Chairman, Vena Ikem

    SPEECH BY SENATOR JARIGBE AGOM JARIGBE, LEADER OF THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) IN CROSS RIVER STATE, ON THE SUSPENSION OF THE STATE CHAIRMAN AND THE APPOINTMENT OF AN ACTING CHAIRMAN

    My dear compatriots in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State,

    Along with other well- meaning Leaders of our great Party, I take responsibility of the goings-on in our Party, not only as your Senator and Leader but as a steadfast member of this great Party, committed to its unity, progress, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence in governance and representation.

    The decision by the State Executive Committee of our Party to suspend the State Chairman and appoint Chief Austin Edibe as Acting Chairman is a significant and deliberate step to reposition our Party for future success. This action, taken in line with the provisions of our Party’s Constitution, reflects the will of the majority and the resolute commitment of our Party to strengthen its structures and processes.

    Let me begin by heartily congratulating Chief Austin Edibe on his new role as the Acting Chairman of our great Party. Chief Edibe, your selection is a testament to your unwavering dedication, leadership qualities, and capacity to steer our Party toward its desired goals. We have full confidence in your ability to build bridges, inspire confidence, and chart a course that will make our Party the envy of others.

    I also wish to commend the members of the State Executive Committee for their bold and decisive action to reposition the Party. You have demonstrated courage and foresight, prioritizing the collective interest of the PDP above all else. This is the kind of leadership that inspires hope and drives progress.

    To our outgoing Chairman, Mr. Vena Ikem, I express my heartfelt gratitude for your efforts in leading our Party over the past three years. Leadership comes with its unique challenges, and I commend you for your dedication during your tenure. As we transition, I urge you to submit to the decision of the majority, remain a loyal and committed party man, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the PDP in any capacity. We wish you well in your future political endeavors and trust that your wealth of experience will continue to benefit the Party.

    I must also extend my deepest appreciation to the Leaders of our Party across the state—our former Governors, Deputy Governor, Senators, members of the House of Representatives, and the House of Assembly. Your steadfastness and timely intervention have shown that true leadership is about standing up for the Party when it matters most. Your actions have inspired confidence and galvanized our supporters to remain loyal to the PDP.

    To the Leaders of our Party in all Local Government Areas, and to our teeming supporters, I thank you for your unyielding commitment and steadfastness. You are the backbone of the PDP, and your dedication is the reason we continue to stand tall in the face of challenges.

    As your Senator and Leader, alongside our representatives in the House of Representatives and our sole representative in the State House of Assembly, I assure you that we will continue to support the Party in every way possible. Together, we will work tirelessly to make the PDP a force to be reckoned with in Cross River State and beyond.

    Finally, I call on all members of our Party to eschew divisiveness and embrace peace and mutual understanding. Let us remember that the task ahead is not a walk in the park. Rebuilding, strengthening, and repositioning the PDP will require the collective effort of everyone. Let us put aside personal differences and unite for the common good. The future of our Party depends on our ability to work together, hand in hand, for a brighter tomorrow.

    Once again, I congratulate Chief Austin Edibe and thank every one of you for your dedication to this great Party. Let us move forward with renewed determination, knowing that our best days are ahead.

    Thank you, and God bless the People’s Democratic Party.

    Long live Cross River State.
    Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Senator Jarigbe A. Jarigbe, DSSRS
    Leader, PDP, Cross River State