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  • Jarigbe Supports Bill As Electoral Act Amendment Passes Second Reading 

    Jarigbe Supports Bill As Electoral Act Amendment Passes Second Reading 

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, today supported the bill seeking to repeal the Electoral Act 2022 and to reenact a new Electoral Bill 2025 which passed second reading at the Senate.

    The bill, which was sponsored by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong (APC, Plateau South), aims to strengthen the legal framework governing elections in Nigeria.

    The bill was initially presented for second reading last Thursday, but was stepped down to allow for wider consultation. It however, resurfaced during Wednesday’s session, where lawmakers extensively debated its general principles.

    Speaking in support of the bill , Senator Jarigbe Agom, stated that the repealing and reenactment of a new Electoral Act will make it possible for the country to take out all the ambiguities in the existing Electoral Act, especially in areas of concerns such as electronic transmission of votes, real time and independent candidature, etc which would help to curtail the excesses in the existing law.

    “If we do not repeal and reenact the Electoral Act, we will be faced with the incongruities in the existing Electoral Act” Jarigbe added.

    The Senate President thereafter put the bill to a voice vote, and the Senators overwhelmingly supported it to pass for a Second reading.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Cross River Ministry Of Education Shuts Down 36 Illegal Schools Across The State

    Cross River Ministry Of Education Shuts Down 36 Illegal Schools Across The State

    Cross River Ministry of Education has shut down 36 illegal schools across the State. These schools have poor structures and falls short of basic academic standards.

    1. Destiny Group of Schools, Obutong

    2. Peculiar Children Academy

    3. Aunty Etimbuk Blossom Academy, Big Qua Town

    4. Elevate International School, 4 Nyok Esu Street

    5. Help From Above Nursery School, Akai Efa

    6. Topmost Academy, 3 Akai Street

    7. De Jumbo Academy, Ikot Ansa

    8. Diamond Schools, 8 Inter Agro Road, Behind First Bank, 8 Miles

    9. Glad International Nursery School, Behind 8 Miles

    10. Excellent Future Academy, Ikot Nkebre

    11. Samfresh Lead Schools, 8 Miles, Ikot Ekpo

    12. The Almighty Academy, Efa Oboh Street

    13. De Palace Academy, Etomkpe, Ikot Ekpo, 8 Miles

    14. Divine Brains Academy, Nasarawa

    15. Aunty Celia Nursery and Primary School, Etomkpe, Ikot Ekpo

    16. Gospel Nursery and Primary School, Esuk Otu

    17. Alpha Noble Academy, by R&C Water, Border Road, Ikom

    18. Cephas Faith Academy, Obaji Ogar Estate, Grassfield, Ikom

    19. Majesty Unique Academy, by R&C Water, Border Road, Ikom

    20. Triumph Nursery/Primary School, Yawunde, Ikom

    21. Ideal Schools, Yawunde, Ikom

    22. Ark Salvation & Wisdom Schools, Edor

    23. God’s Double Academy, College Road, Edor

    24. Bendok Schools, by Ikom/Ogoja Highway, Edor

    25. Eden Academy, along Border Road

    26. Dominion Academy Secondary School, Nkarassi

    27. Stars Academy Nursery/Primary School, Ishiborr

    28. Kredeemers Academy (Redeem Church), Igoli Ogoja

    29. Firmament Stars Secondary School, Njaman Abakpa, Ogoja

    30. King Carries Multi-National High School, Ndok Junction, Ogoja

    31. Light Bearers Academy Nursery/Primary and Secondary School

    32. Satwo Nursery/Primary School, Ndok Junction, Ogoja

    33. Faith Mission Academy, Ndok Junction, Ogoja

    34. St. Peter Nursery/Primary School, Eshinjok

    35. Wisdom Nursery/Primary School, Mbok

    36. Freedom Heritage Academy Nursery/Primary School, Njaman Abakpa, Ogoja

  • Why Roads, Power And Local Tools Matter Most Than Foreign Schlolarshs BY MIKE UDAM

    Why Roads, Power And Local Tools Matter Most Than Foreign Schlolarshs BY MIKE UDAM

     

    Across Cross River North, the story is familiar. A farmer wakes before dawn, loads his cassava, and struggles through a 10-kilometre journey that takes three hours because the road is bad.

    Students still read under kerosene lamps. Women trek long distances to nearby streams to fetch water for drinking. These are not statistics. They are real people. Our people. And they need more than promises.

    Recently, some social media voices have argued that sending students abroad on scholarship is the best kind of empowerment. It sounds nice, but it tells only part of the story.

    Yes, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has supported overseas scholarships for some constituents, and that is commendable. Education changes lives. But while a scholarship lifts one person, good infrastructure lifts a whole community.

    Education is good, but people need water first

    Imagine a young man who wins a scholarship abroad. His parents rejoice. But back home, his mother still treks for water and his siblings still study under a leaking roof. When he returns, the same broken road greets him.

    Development must start from the ground up. Scholarships are like rain on one farm; infrastructure is like rain on the whole village. Both are good, but if the village stays dry, no farm can thrive.

    Why basic infrastructure should come first

    It helps everyone. One road, one transformer or one borehole benefits hundreds.
    It keeps our best brains home. When jobs and opportunities exist locally, fewer young people will run abroad.
    It is fairer. A scholarship touches a few; a road or borehole touches all.
    It builds dignity. A tricycle, sewing machine, or mini tractor gives lasting value.
    It brings visible results. People can see and feel real development.
    Every Ward Has Felt the Touch

    There’s hardly any political ward in Northern Cross River State without a life-changing project facilitated by Senator Jarigbe. From transformers lighting up forgotten villages, to mini-tractors that ease farming, to tricycles, motorcycles, and farm inputs empowering women and youths—the evidence is everywhere.

    The senator’s focus is clear: to lift burdens and create broad-based empowerment, not just bless a few families. His projects are practical, visible, and life-changing. They speak louder than speeches.

    Finding a better balance

    This is not about stopping scholarships; it’s about balance.

    Let 80% of effort go to infrastructure and empowerment, and 20% to education. Let every scholar who studies abroad come back to serve locally. Let every LGA have a vocational centre where skills are taught and livelihoods created.

    Most importantly, let leadership remain transparent so people can see how their mandate is being used.

    Real leadership is measured by what stays

    A scholarship ends when a student graduates. But a road, a transformer, a borehole, or a market stall keeps serving long after the ribbon is cut.

    Senator Jarigbe’s real legacy lies in these burden-lifting projects that bring light, water, mobility, and dignity to rural communities.

    Because at the end of the day, the people’s real question is not “Who travelled abroad?” but “Do we have light? Do we have water? Can we sell our produce? Can our children learn in dignity?”

    Foreign scholarships are good. But roads, electricity, clean water, and small businesses are better foundations for lasting progress.

    Let’s build home before we build abroad.
    Let’s raise communities before we raise headlines.

    True leadership is not about sending people away.
    It’s about giving them a reason to stay.

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

  • Sen Jarigbe Commissions Betukwel, Igwo Roads Amidst Cheers

    Sen Jarigbe Commissions Betukwel, Igwo Roads Amidst Cheers

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom, has commissioned the Betukwel and Igwo Road, Begiading Ward, Obudu Local Government Area.

    As part of the commissioning process, Sen Jarigbe also inspected ongoing projects, including the Betukwel Ultra-Modern Town Hall and the Amukwong Bridge in Alege/Ubang, all in Obudu local government area.

    The elated Sen Jarigbe Agom, appreciated constituents for their continued support and promised to complete the remaining segments of the roads and while considering their requests.

    The Senator, who led his team to Obudu on October 13th , was received by traditional leaders, women, youths, and men who had gathered to witness the events at various locations.

    In Igwo, the Clan Head, HRH Utsu Cornelius Ulem, narrated the difficulties faced by his people and thanked the Senator for remembering them when all hope seemed lost.

    Similarly, the people of Betukwel expressed deep appreciation for the Lawmaker’s efforts, particularly the newly constructed road and ongoing ultra-modern town hall, while Amukwong community in Alege/Ubang also thanked him for facilitating the construction of their bridge, which had become a necessity due to its potential to boost economic development and improve their living standards.

    On their part, the people of Betukwel expressed deep appreciation for the Lawmaker’s efforts, particularly the newly constructed road and ongoing ultra-modern town hall, while Amukwong community in Alege/Ubang also thanked him for facilitating the construction of their bridge, which had become a necessity due to its potential to boost economic development and improve their living standards.

    Chief Austin Edibe, Prof. Zana Akpagu, Mr. John Atsu, Hon. Kingsley Agabi, Mr. Aninege Jimmie, Hon. Charles Eneji, Mr. Egar Mgbantul were among the dignitaries that accompanied the senator.

  • BREAKING: FCE Obudu Governing Council Suspends Provost

    BREAKING: FCE Obudu Governing Council Suspends Provost

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The 8th Governing Council of the Federal College of Education Obudu, Cross River State, has suspended the Provost of the College, Dr. Richard Ugbaha Utubaku for maladministration and gross misconduct.

    In a letter made available to TheLumineNews and signed by Mr Evans O. Iyenya, Registra/Secretary of Council, with Ref No: FCE/OB/REG/CT-A/Vol.II/273, and captioned “LETTER OF SUSPENSION AND GENERAL INEFFICIENCY”. The Registrar noted that “I am directed to inform you that 8th Governing Council is in receipt of allegations and series of complaints against you from Deans of Schools, the three Unions in the College; COEASU, SUUCOEN, NASU and Director of Procurement for surreptitiously auctioning of college unserviceable cars and other irregularities vehicles. This is in violation of the White Paper of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the report of the visiting panel into the affairs of the College 2011-2015.

    “Consequently, the 8th Governing Council in its 5th Regular meeting directed that you proceed on a Three months suspension at the first instance with effect from 14th October, 2025 pending the conclusion of investigation.
    You are hereby directed to handover all college properties and official documents to the Deputy Provost.”

    It is alleged that the Provost has been having a running battle with the major unions in the College because of his style of administration, high-handedness, lack of transparency and insensitivity to staff welfare.

    The latest storm that is brewing in the College is the auctioning of about 15 College vehicles of various brands by the Provost to his cronies and family members without due process. A move that the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) describe as “Kangaroo Auctioning of College Property”

    Documents obtained indicate that COEASU has given the suspended Provost till Tuesday 14th October 2025 to return the vehicles or they’ll down tools.

  • Jarigbe Set To Commission Igwo And Betukwel Road Projects on Monday

    Jarigbe Set To Commission Igwo And Betukwel Road Projects on Monday

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, will commission the newly completed road projects in Igwo and Betukwel communities, Obudu Local Government Area.

    The commissioning ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 13, 2025, at 12:00 pm prompt in Igwo, followed by Betukwel community.

    During his visit, Senator Jarigbe will also inspect ongoing projects facilitated by him, including the Amukwong Bridge construction in Alege/Ubang and the Ultra Modern Town Hall project in Betukwel.

    All supporters, party members, and the general public are cordially invited to attend this significant event.

  • The Leper: Jesus Not Wanting To Claim Credit, Had To Send Them Off Saying “Go And Show Yourself To The Priest” BY FR PETER OBELE ABUE

    The Leper: Jesus Not Wanting To Claim Credit, Had To Send Them Off Saying “Go And Show Yourself To The Priest” BY FR PETER OBELE ABUE

    THE LEPER

    At the time of Jesus, there were four categories of persons that were just regarded as dead people: the poor, the blind, the childless and the leper. Of these categories, the leper was considered the worst: an outcast, unclean and most loathsome. He was separated from the rest of the community and could not even come near the village. Like every disease at that time, leprosy was looked upon as a punishment for one’s sin. In fact, it was the very symbol of sin. To be cured of leprosy was a miracle comparable to reviving a corpse and only God could work such a miracle. We can then understand better, the story of the Ten Lepers who came to Jesus, as recorded in Luke 17:11-19.

    In this story, the ten lepers came to Jesus for a cure, but they had to stop at a distance and cry out “Jesus, Master! have pity on us” (vs.12-13). Jesus, not wanting to claim credit, had to send them off saying, “Go and show yourself to the priest” (v.14), and they were cured on the way (lesson for modern healers who like to claim all the credit). Finally, Jesus wondered why only one of them (a foreigner) returns to give thanks and asked, “ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine?” (v.17). A similar story is also recorded in the Old Testament (2Kgs:5ff), where a foreigner, Naaman the leper who was hitherto worshipping Rimmon seeks a cure and Elisha the prophet sends him off to the Jordan. On his way, he got his cure and returns to give thanks.

    The above stories and images have some symbolism. They speak to us first and foremost about the significance of leprosy and the leper in the Bible: Leprosy represents sin and the leper, the sinner like you and I. Although we are sinners, we can no longer be kept back from God’s house. By turning back to Jesus, the leper is no longer a foreigner because God has sent the one who has power to cure leprosy; Jesus Christ into the world
    (Lk 7:22). This story speaks to us about the miraculous power of God to heal and the necessity of man to give thanks to God for his healing power, both in the physical and spiritual sense. Humankind is no longer divided between the healthy and the sick (lepers), the upright and the sinners, those who are beloved and those who are hated by God. Pope Leo, in his recent encyclical ‘Delexi Te’ urges the whole world to do away with a religion that excludes people, that passes judgements, that condemns the unclean because salvation is for ALL.

  • Obudu Council Chairman’s Aide Distributes Educational Materials to Students

    Obudu Council Chairman’s Aide Distributes Educational Materials to Students

     

    In a demonstration of commitment to educational development, the Chief of Protocol to the Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Mr. Akem Julius Ushikpebia, on Thursday distributed learning materials to selected primary and secondary schools within the local government area.

    Accompanied by friends and colleagues, Mr. Akem explained that the gesture was part of his personal contribution in support of his principal, Hon. (Amb.) Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, whose administration has made education a key priority since assumption of office.

    According to him, the Council Chairman has initiated several education-focused programs, including the payment of school fees for deserving students, the distribution of thousands of notebooks and other learning materials, educational grants for tertiary students of Obudu origin, and the purchase of JAMB forms for hundreds of secondary school leavers.

    Beyond distributing the learning materials, friends of Mr. Akem further supported his initiative with the payment of school fees for some vulnerable pupils, and the provision of school uniforms and other essential items.

    Schools that benefited from the gesture include Begiading Secondary Grammar School, Ohong; Model Primary School, Ohong; Grace Missionary Secondary School Ukwel-Obudu, Obudu; and Bright Day Nursery and Primary School, Ohong.

    In their separate appreciation messages, the Principal of Begiading Secondary Grammar School, Mr. Marcelus Ulayi; the Headmaster of Bright Day Nursery and Primary School, Mr. Innofrank Ukah; Mr. Emmanuel Beshel; and a Primary Four class teacher, Mr. Sylvester Atuabue, expressed deep gratitude to Mr. Akem for his benevolence.

    They commended him for complementing the efforts of the Council Chairman in promoting education and urged other well-meaning individuals to emulate his example.

  • Jarigbe Distributes 68 Tricycles, 50 Tillers To Constituents

    Jarigbe Distributes 68 Tricycles, 50 Tillers To Constituents

    By Elijah Ugani

    In a significant move to boost business and enhance food sufficiency, the senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has distributed 68 Tricycles and 50 Hand power Tillers to constituents at his residence, GRA, Ogoja.

    Speaking during the distribution of the tricycles and tillers, Sen Jarigbe Agom, represented by his Constituency Officer, Mr Egar Mgbantul, noted that the gesture is to boost their economic activities and enhance food sufficiency.

    In his words “As your representative, I told myself that my mandate is your mandate and that is why all year round, I have decided to provide you with what you need to sustain your livelihoods.

    “Majority of those we have provided them with tricycles are business people. Some are farmers and they will need it to convey their produce from the farm to their homes and even the markets.

    “Food sufficiency can be a powerful tool for promoting economic development, improving livelihoods, and enhancing community well-being.

    “I have decided to provide tillers for machanized farming. I want to encourage our youths to go into farming as these tillers will help to plough the soil to ease farming. I will continue to do best to provide you with what will be of help to you”.

    Speaking with some of the beneficiaries, Mr Sunny Idam, commended Sen Jarigbe Agom, for providing him with a tricycle and pledged to use it judiciously to aid his family.

    Mr Jude Akpagu, who got a tiller expressed happiness for the honour done him and prayed God to continue to provide for Sen Jarigbe Agom.

  • New Trends In Earning Online In 2025

    New Trends In Earning Online In 2025

    New Trends in Earning Online in 2025 – Opportunities and Insights

    The digital economy never pauses, and 2025 proves it again. Online income sources are growing, reaching areas that once felt untouched. From highly technical skills to platform-driven services, people now have more chances than ever to earn online. The change is quick, global, and highly rewarding.

    Many are attracted by the convenience of modern platforms. Fast setup, secure payments, and simple user flows create a steady pull. Services such as https://1xbet.gm/en illustrate how online access connects users to income streams with smooth navigation. The wider digital space is built on the same model: mobile, efficient, and designed to generate returns.

    Online Work and Changing Digital Habits

    By 2025, online earning is part of everyday life rather than an alternative. Mobile apps, gig services, and subscriptions are now central to how people use the web.

    Digital behavior is a major driver. Mobile-first activity, quick transactions, and microservices shape both how people spend and how they earn. Platforms integrating payments and work seamlessly continue to thrive.

    Freelancing and Specialized Skills

    Freelancing has moved far beyond side jobs. Designers, developers, and consultants work on global projects with increasing focus on niche skills. Specific expertise, not just volume, secures higher rates in 2025.

    Category Avg. hourly rate (USD) Growth in demand Leading platforms
    AI development 60–120 +35% Upwork, Toptal
    Cybersecurity 55–110 +28% Fiverr Pro, Guru
    UX/UI design 45–95 +24% 99 designs, Upwork
    Data analytics 50–100 +30% Freelancer, Toptal
    Content strategy 40–85 +20% Fiverr, Contently
    Categories of online jobs, hourly rates, market demand, and leading platforms

    These figures show one clear trend: skills tied to AI, security, and data pay better than most other fields.

    Subscriptions and Creator Economy

    Creators shape much of today’s digital earning system. Memberships and subscriptions dominate in video, education, and streaming. Instead of advertising alone, creators turn fans into direct supporters.

    Services like paid newsletters and community platforms help small groups of loyal fans bring in steady income. Many creators now earn more from a thousand paying subscribers than from a million casual viewers.

    Gaming as a Source of Income

    Gaming has shifted from entertainment to a serious economic driver. Streaming, competitive tournaments, and in-game purchases all support online incomes. Mobile solutions boost this further. https://1xbet.gm/en/mobile reflects how mobile convenience pulls users into digital ecosystems. This is mirrored in gaming, where mobile integration accounts for most growth.

    Digital Products and Microservices

    Digital product sales are growing rapidly. Templates, learning materials, and toolkits can be distributed easily and maintained with low effort. A single product may generate passive income for years.

    AI shapes how individuals make money online. From automated design tools to smart trading assistants, machine learning is central. Smart contracts on blockchain platforms replace long and complex agreements, saving time and cutting costs.

    Gig Platforms and Task Work

    Small task platforms continue to attract millions. Survey jobs, testing, and micro tasks remain a steady entry point for new earners.

    Platform Avg. hourly income (USD) Key features
    Amazon MTurk 3–7 Microtasks, surveys
    Clickworker 4–8 Data entry, short texts
    Appen 6–10 AI training, audio work
    UserTesting 10–20 Website and app testing
    Lionbridge 5–9 Translation, language jobs
    Examples of small tasks platforms, their rates, key features.

    Earnings are lower than freelancing, but flexibility makes them popular.

    Digital assets remain part of online income in 2025. Fractional shares and stablecoins allow micro-investments starting from a few dollars. Transparency and security are stressed.

    Key Highlights

    The online earning market is more dynamic than ever. Four major points define 2025:

    1. Mobile-first models dominate across income types
    2. AI and automation scale productivity and efficiency
    3. Gaming integrates with income in new ways
    4. Regional differences shape unique earning approaches

    Online Education and Knowledge Sharing

    Teaching online is thriving. Platforms for live classes and recorded material host subjects ranging from coding to productivity tips. Beyond formal learning, niche lessons such as gaming strategies also draw steady interest. Models vary by region. Mobile-first growth leads in some areas, while subscription services dominate in others.

    Earning online in 2025 is not about chance but about adaptation. From freelancing and subscriptions to AI and gaming, digital opportunities are broader than ever. Creativity, flexibility, and quick adoption of tools define who succeeds.

    Okwum Uchechukwu, a Journalist, serves as Editor with the Tide Newspapers, and writes in from PortHarcourt, Rivers State.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this sponsored article are strictly attributable to the author, Okwum Uchechukwu, and do not represent the TheLumineNews or it’s agent .