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  • You Have Every Right, Like Every Bekwarra Son and Daughter – Ada Bekwarra II Tells Sen Jarigbe Agom

    You Have Every Right, Like Every Bekwarra Son and Daughter – Ada Bekwarra II Tells Sen Jarigbe Agom

     

    The Ada Bekwarra II, Hon. Signor Omang Idiege, has reaffirmed that Senator Jarigbe Agom enjoys the same rights and privileges as every other son and daughter of Bekwarra land, emphasizing unity and inclusiveness within the community.

    Hon. Idiege made this known when Senator Jarigbe Agom, accompanied by his team, paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Gakem. The visit was part of the Senator’s consultations ahead of the 2027 senatorial election.

    Speaking during the meeting, the elder statesman stressed that Bekwarra’s traditions uphold equality and do not tolerate discrimination among its people.

    “You have every right, just like every other Bekwarra son and daughter. In Bekwarra culture and tradition, we do not discriminate against our own, including our grandchildren,” he stated.

    Hon. Idiege further revealed that stakeholders and elders in Bekwarra have consistently advised the people to embrace issue-based politics, rather than divisive or personality-driven campaigns.

    “At the stakeholders’ level, we have been cautioning our people to focus on issues. We are pleased to see that this is gradually becoming the norm in our political engagements,” he added.

    In his response, Senator Jarigbe Agom expressed gratitude to the Ada Bekwarra II for the warm reception and fatherly guidance. He also appreciated the role of elders and opinion leaders in fostering unity, peace, and development within the community.

    The visit, observers note, reflects ongoing efforts by political actors to engage traditional and community leaders as part of broader consultations ahead of the upcoming elections.

    The Lawmaker was accompanied the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra LGA, Hon. Egbung Odama, High Chief Timmy Tom Udam, Chief Wabily Nyiam, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Chief Igbe Aruku, Papa Dornclaimz Enamhe, Uko Inaku, Princess Otanya, Hon. Charles Eneji, Hon. Kingsley Agabi, Prof. Osha and many others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Eid-el-Fitr: Senator Jarigbe Extols Unity, Empathy, Shared Humanity

    Eid-el-Fitr: Senator Jarigbe Extols Unity, Empathy, Shared Humanity

     

    The Senator representing Cross River State Northern Senatorial Zone, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Cross River State and across Nigeria on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan and the joyous celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

    In his goodwill message, the Senator paid tribute to the resilience, devotion and discipline demonstrated by the faithful throughout the period of fasting, prayer and almsgiving, noting that Ramadan remains a powerful testament to the elevating force of faith and the human capacity for sacrifice in pursuit of divine grace.

    Jarigbe observed that “Eid-el-Fitr is not merely a festivity, but a solemn reminder of the enduring virtues that bind humanity together, compassion, generosity, tolerance and love.” He urged the Muslim faithful to carry forward the moral and spiritual lessons of Ramadan into everyday life, allowing them to shape interactions, deepen empathy and strengthen communal bonds.

    He emphasized that “the occasion presents a timely opportunity for Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences, to reaffirm their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and national cohesion,” noting that “the true essence of Eid lies in our ability to extend kindness beyond familiar circles and to build bridges of understanding in a diverse society such as ours.”

    While reflecting on the broader national context, the Senator reiterated the need for collective responsibility in nurturing a just, inclusive and harmonious society where every citizen is accorded dignity and opportunity, regardless of background or belief.

    Jarigbe therefore enjoins the Muslim faithful to celebrate with gratitude, moderation and a deep sense of social responsibility, praying that the blessings of Eid usher in peace, renewed hope and abiding prosperity for Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Pays Courtesy Visit to Obudu LGA Chairman, Hon Peter Undiandeye Ahead Of Consultation

    Jarigbe Pays Courtesy Visit to Obudu LGA Chairman, Hon Peter Undiandeye Ahead Of Consultation

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, at his residence upon arriving in Obudu ahead of his scheduled consultation visits.

    Senator Jarigbe, who was accompanied by key stakeholders from across the senatorial district, stated that his visit to Obudu marks the beginning of his consultations. He emphasized the importance of paying homage to the council chairman as part of his engagements.

    While receiving the senator and his delegation, Chief Tony Undiandeye expressed appreciation for Senator Jarigbe’s continued support for the Governor of Cross River State and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria since joining the All Progressives Congress (APC). He noted that the senator’s presence in Obudu reflects the growing strength and momentum of his political aspirations among stakeholders, party leaders, and constituents.

    Also speaking, former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Edi, highlighted the significance of the senator’s visit and the gathering of stakeholders in Obudu. He described Cross River North as fortunate to have Senator Jarigbe as its representative and called for collective support to ensure his reelection. According to him, this would enable the senator to continue his work in synergy with the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, and the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Some of the stakeholders include, Hon. Chief Timmy Tom, Chief Igbe Aruku, Hon. Martins Orim, Dr. Dornclaimz Enamhe, Hon. Paddy Uguge, Wabily Nyiam, Hon. Chris Agbe, Hon. Thomas Agi, Uko Inaku, Hon. Bravo Gabriel Oluohu amongst others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Bishop Akpan Calls On Govt To Partner More Actively In Building Strong Educational Institutions

    Bishop Akpan Calls On Govt To Partner More Actively In Building Strong Educational Institutions

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, the Most Rev Donatus Edet Akpan, has called on the Cross River State government to partner more actively in building strong educational institutions in the state for her people.

    The Bishop made the call on March 17th 2026 during the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of St Patrick’s Technical College Ugep held at the school premises.

    Represented by the Vicar General Administration, Very Rev Fr Peter Obele Abue PhD, the Bishop made the call during homily to declare the celebration open.

    In his words “Our past engagements with the government in the area of education may not have been encouraging. However, this moment calls for renewed collaboration. We urge the government to partner more actively with the church in building strong educational institutions for our people. If such collaboration had been stronger over the past sixty years, this celebration might have been even more glorious.

    Find full text of the homily “Welcome, my brother priests, distinguished alumni, invited guests, and the entire community of Ugep gathered here today. I also warmly acknowledge the Principal, staff and students of this great institution.

    “It gives me immense joy that we have all been called together to celebrate sixty years of faith, knowledge, and technical excellence. This is not just a celebration of time, but of impact, growth, and transformation.

    “I sincerely thank all those who have contributed to building this institution. Your dedication and enduring commitment have ensured that what was started sixty years ago has not only been sustained but strengthened.

    “On behalf of the Bishop of Ogoja, we reaffirm our resolve to continue promoting and strengthening technical education in our diocese.

    “Today, as we celebrate, we cannot fail to remember the inspiring story of Saint Patrick. As a young boy, he was captured from Britain and taken to Ireland as a slave. Yet, in his native land, he later became a priest and eventually a bishop. Because of his earlier experience, he chose to return to Ireland, where he devoted himself to evangelization and education. Through his work and that of his companions, Ireland was transformed.

    “Today, Saint Patrick is celebrated across the world, especially on Saint Patrick’s Day, a day that has become globally recognized. His life teaches us that wherever we find ourselves, we must blossom. Even in a foreign land, he became a champion of faith, learning, and human development.

    “In the same way, we in Cross River State may be considered latecomers in the area of education, but we must not be discouraged. The life of Saint Patrick reminds us that transformation is always possible.

    “I want to commend the Bishop and the Catholic Education Board for the remarkable work being done in the Ogoja Diocese, not only in schools, but also in churches and hospitals. We have seen how this institution has evolved through different stages to what it is today. These stages remind us that growth requires patience, perseverance, and faith.

    “Today, we are not just celebrating success, we are celebrating vision. Education must open our eyes. It must empower us to rise to greater heights and accomplish great things. The Church invites us to encounter Jesus Christ through education, because any true encounter with Christ must bring about transformation.

    “Our past engagements with the government in the area of education may not have been encouraging. However, this moment calls for renewed collaboration. We urge the government to partner more actively in building strong educational institutions for our people. If such collaboration had been stronger over the past sixty years, this celebration might have been even more glorious.

    “I also call on all alumni to rise and support this institution. Across the world today, alumni associations are key drivers of development. If there has been any division in the past, let this be the moment to unite and build a stronger, more effective body for progress.

    “Dear students, make hay while the sun shines. This is your opportunity to grow, to learn, and to prepare for a brighter future.

    “Finally, I invite all of us to commit ourselves to greater effort and faith. Like the disciples in the Gospel, who toiled without success until Christ intervened, we too are called to “cast our nets again.” When they obeyed, they experienced a bountiful catch. May the same be your story. As you go forth, may your efforts yield abundant fruit so much so that you will require others to help you gather the harvest.

    “May the God who has called you bring to completion the good work He has begun in you, through Christ our Lord. Amen”.

  • APC National Convention: Chief Okoi Obono-Obla Declares Interest For Publicity Secretary

    APC National Convention: Chief Okoi Obono-Obla Declares Interest For Publicity Secretary

    Ready to Serve as APC Voice –

    On 16 March 2026, the Party announced that it will retain the zoning formula used in 2022 as the basis for its 2026 zoning arrangement.

    I have always been a loyal Party man, and therefore I will align my aspiration with the decision of the Party. Accordingly, I intend to aspire to the position of National Publicity Secretary, or alternatively, the National Vice Chairman (South-South), subject to the agreement of our leaders.

    Undoubtedly, I will function seamlessly as a credible publicity anchor for the Party. My institutional memory is deep: I served as National Deputy Secretary, Secretary of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC), and Co‑Secretary of the Joint Inter‑Party Merger Committee that negotiated the formation of the APC in 2013. This experience is vital to advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of our administration.

    Beyond this, I bring 35 years of legal practice and extensive government service, including roles as Special Assistant to the President on Prosecution, Special Assistant to the Attorney General of the Federation, Chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel, and Acting Secretary of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee. Coupled with my media exposure as a commentator on governance, human rights, and international affairs, I have consistently defended and promoted the Party and Government in both traditional and new media.

    In addition, I have served as a Traditional Ruler in my community in Cross River State since 2009, on a throne that is over 500 years old. My experience as a judge, mediator, reconciliator, and administrator of justice and favors has enriched my capacity to manage people and resolve disputes. This background will bear directly on my work as a Party bureaucrat, particularly in strengthening its internal conflict resolution mechanisms.

    I was also the Chief Spokesman of the APC in Cross River State during the 2023 electioneering campaign, where I performed creditably in projecting, driving, and promoting the Party’s manifesto and campaign. This effort contributed to the Party’s victory in the State across both the executive and legislative branches of government.

    I am also a writer and author with deep knowledge of national and international affairs, which I will harness to shape and drive the Party’s narrative. Over the years, I have consistently defended and promoted the Party and Government in a positive light, ensuring that their vision is projected with clarity and conviction.

    In conclusion, the office of the National Publicity Secretary of the APC—the governing Party in Nigeria—requires loyalty, institutional memory, professional competence, media dexterity, and conflict resolution skills. These qualities I possess in abundance, and I stand ready to serve the Party with dedication and distinction.

    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla
    17 March 2026

    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla

  • Anointed: In The Spiritual Realm, To Be Annoited Means To Be Chosen Or Favoured By God To Fulfil A Special Role BY REV FR PETER OBELE ABUE

    Anointed: In The Spiritual Realm, To Be Annoited Means To Be Chosen Or Favoured By God To Fulfil A Special Role BY REV FR PETER OBELE ABUE

     

    In the gospel of John, there is a story of certain man born blind who use to “sit and beg” (9:2). The story goes that when Jesus saw the man, he “spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man’s eye with the clay”. Thereafter he was “sent” to the pool of Siloam, with instructions to “go and wash” and he came back seeing (vss. 6-7). About David, who was the least of the seven sons of Jesse, the scriptures also recount that “Samuel with the horn of oil in hand, anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and from that day on, the spirit of the Lord rushed upon David” (1 Sam. 16:13). What really is this anointing in the bible all about? Why were these two men after anointing SUDDENLY chosen to become “Special”? In the spiritual realm, to be anointed means to be chosen or favoured by God to fulfill a special role.

    According to the above scripture readings, we note the 5 marks of an Anointed person.
    First, an anointed person must be chosen by God. It is God who choses, and he can chose to annoint ANYONE. Human beings may forget you, like Jesse forgot his youngest son, or the blind who was forgotten in the streets, but God cannot forget you because He created you and you are special.

    Second, an anointed person must have a clean or pure heart to be chosen by God, for “God does not judge by appearance… but he looks at the heart” (1 Sam 16: 7).

    Thirdly, God does not anoint a lazy person. David was busy tending the sheep in the fields when he was called to be anointed. The man in the gospel story, though born blind, was always on the road helping himself as a beggar.

    Fourthly, no one is anointed in secret or in private. In other words, anointing is not a self-acclaimed affair. It must be by plebiscite, for one is anointed to serve others not himself or his family alone. David was anointed in the midst of his brothers and the blind man was anointed on the streets.

    Lastly, after being anointed, you must be given a mandate; you must be “sent” on a mission, to fulfill a particular purpose in life. Anointing opens your spiritual eye to a new reality and makes you ask the great questions in life; what is my mission on earth?

    Are you Annointed

  • The Man Called Jesus. A sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe at Holy Trinity Parish, Ogboja-Ogoja

    The Man Called Jesus. A sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe at Holy Trinity Parish, Ogboja-Ogoja

     

    Jesus said to the blind man, “Go and wash yourself and receive your sight.” The man obeyed, washed himself, and he received his sight.

    The identity of God is hidden in complete mystery. God cannot be fully understood by human beings. The more you try to understand Him completely, the more you realize how deep and beyond comprehension He is. God is the only one who can make the impossible possible. When human beings say something cannot be done, God can turn it around. He can transform nothing into something. He can take a rejected stone and make it the cornerstone. He can also transform a rejected family into an accepted and honored one.

    The same God who controls our lives healed the man who was born blind. When the miracle happened, many people gathered, including the Pharisees, and arguments began. The Jews did not believe the miracle. When the disciples asked Jesus, “Was this man born blind because of his sin or the sin of his parents?” Jesus answered that it was not because of sin, but so that the glory of God might be revealed through him.

    When you depend only on human beings, you will often be disappointed. But when you depend on God, you will find fulfillment.

    In the first reading, we hear about the sons of Jesse. At first, nobody paid attention to the one whom God had chosen. Yet there was a king in that house..When the prophet Samuel went to Jesse’s house, the first son appeared strong and impressive, and Samuel thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed stands here.” But God told him, “This is not the one. Look further.”

    The Scriptures remind us. Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart. All seven sons passed before Samuel, yet none of them was chosen. Samuel became confused and asked, “Are these all your sons?”. Jesse had forgotten about David, who was in the bush tending sheep. While David was in the wilderness, God was preparing him. It was in that bush that he learned courage and strength, which later enabled him to defeat Goliath.

    Sometimes God allows us to remain hidden so that we can prepare ourselves. Many young people today are in a hurry to reach the top of life. If you find yourself in a difficult or humble situation, stay there and prepare yourself. Do not rush. David prepared himself in the bush. Young people should use this period of their lives to prepare for the future, instead of moving from place to place searching for quick wealth.

    When David eventually became king, he wrote in Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.” He also said, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” David could say this because he knew that God had prepared him and had prepared a table before him in the presence of his enemies.

    It is only those who have enemies that God prepares a table for in their presence. David became a testimony of God’s mercy. He said, “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” God chose David and showed him great mercy.

    The Scriptures encourage us to come boldly into the presence of God. When you dwell in the house of the Lord, extraordinary things happen. David once said, “How can I live in a house of cedar while the Ark of the Lord remains in a tent? I will build a temple for the Lord.” But God told him that one of his sons would build the temple.

    David was forgotten in the bush. Your parents may forget you. Your brothers and sisters may forget you. Friends and society may forget you. But God will never forget you. Just as David was not forgotten by God, you too will not be forgotten.

    When it is your turn, protocols will change for you. When David finally came before Samuel, God said, “Arise and anoint him; this is the one.” David had been misjudged by his father and even by Samuel at first. Yet God chose him.

    May the Spirit that came upon David come upon you. And when the day comes for God to announce you to the world, it will not take two days.

  • Why Senator Jarigbe Is The Strong Choice For Cross River Northern District BY PETER AGI

    Why Senator Jarigbe Is The Strong Choice For Cross River Northern District BY PETER AGI

     

    Now that the political landscape of Cross River State is buzzing with anticipation as the next elections approach, Jarigbe appears to me matchless. Amidst the array of candidates, Senator Jarigbe stands out as a formidable contender for the Northern District seat. His track record, leadership qualities, and vision for the district make a compelling case for why he’s the best fit.

    Senator Jarigbe has demonstrated his ability to deliver on campaign promises, with notable efforts in improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education in Cross River North. His legislative achievements are a reflection of his commitment to the region’s development. He’s known for being accessible and responsive to his people’s needs, bridging gaps between government and community. This connection with the grassroots has earned him the trust and admiration of the people.

    Jarigbe’s focus on sustainable development, agricultural growth, and youth empowerment aligns with the district’s needs. He emphasizes unity among diverse communities, fostering peace and cooperation. His leadership style is inclusive, ensuring that every voice is heard and every concern is addressed. Born and raised in the region, Jarigbe understands the local context and challenges, making him uniquely positioned to drive progress.

    The people of Cross River North have taken notice of his efforts. Today, Senator Jarigbe received a significant endorsement from indigenous people of Cross River Northern District residing in Abuja, gathered at Millennium Park. This show of support underscores the impact of his work in the region. The endorsement reflects their trust in Jarigbe’s vision for sustainable development and unity in Cross River North.

    Compared to other candidates, Jarigbe’s legislative experience gives him an edge in navigating governance. While others may promise quick fixes, Jarigbe offers sustainable solutions. His focus on innovation, education, and healthcare positions Cross River North for growth.

    Jarigbe’s policies are centered around boosting local farming and food security, improving schools and scholarships, and enhancing healthcare facilities and services. These initiatives are designed to uplift the community and drive economic progress.

    In conclusion, Senator Jarigbe’s combination of experience, vision, and commitment to Cross River North makes him the standout choice for the district. The people’s endorsement is a testament to his dedication and impact. He’s the leader Cross River North needs to move forward.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Peter Agi, and does not represent Theluminenews, its agent or the organisation the author works for/with.

  • Group Endorses President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Bassey Otu, Sen Jarigbe Agom for 2027

    Group Endorses President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Bassey Otu, Sen Jarigbe Agom for 2027

     

    Cross River North stakeholders resident in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), a group of leaders across political divides, professional backgrounds and community leadership positions, have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, H. E Senator Prince Bassey Otu and Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe to continue in office till 2031.

    Members of the group bared their minds in a communique read at the end of the their Endorsement Rally on Saturday, during which they reviewed the trajectory of governance under the leadership of the President, Governor and Distinguished Senator in the past years, especially in view of the evolving national political landscape.

    In a communique which was presented by the Liaison Officer to the Governor, House of Assembly, Hon. Cynthia Nkasi, the group restated her commitment to the Leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, H. E. Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu and Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.

    1. The group expressed its profound appreciation to Senator Jarigbe Agom
    Jarigbe for his selfless movement and integration into the APC, which has helped to position the Zone for greater benefits, both from the state and Federal Government.

    2. The group thanked Senator Jarigbe’s
    commitment to providing exceptional, broad based and quality representation for the people of the Zone and for complimenting the Governor, H. E Senator
    Prince Bassey Edet Otu People’s First Agenda in the State.

    3. The Group appreciates the Senator for facilitating, executing and completing projects that are evenly sited across the Northern Senatorial District.

    4. The group acknowledged and appreciated Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe for his consistent commitment to the education of our young ones, especially
    the facilitation and placement of Northern Cross River indigenes in various establishments, the facilitation of overseas scholarship for our young ones and the Jari Bursary Scheme.

    5. The Group further expressed their appreciation to him for the political visibility and recognition that the zone enjoys since his election as Senator,
    representing the Senatorial District.

    6. In view of the above, we the stakeholders of Cross River North resident in Abuja, have come out to encourage Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, to remain focused on delivering on his mandate and to seek re-election so that he can continue to deliver quality representation to the people.

    7. The group expressed their Satisfaction with the developmental strides of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s administration in the state and commended his ongoing efforts at completing all projects in the zone, initiated by the past administration, while equally noting the bold economic reforms initiated by the APC led Federal Government under the leadership of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    8. The group therefore, unanimously, endorse Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe to return to the Senate for the benefit of the people of Northern Cross River;
    endorse the second term bid of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu as governor and that of his Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    9. The group expressed her unalloyed support and commitment to engaging with other groups, associations and constituents of Cross River North Senatorial District to drum support for their re-election as well as support all candidates of the APC in the 2027 elections.

    Other speakers at the event include Amb. Akpang Obi Odu, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Barr. Fidel Bisong Osang, Chief Peter Ojie, Hon. Martins Orim, Dr. Dornclaimz Enamhe, Hon. Thomas Agi, Hon. Regina Anyogo, Chief Austin Edibe, Hon. Gabriel Bravo Oluohu, Royjones Akpak amongst others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • UNICAL VC Takes Delivery, Commissions PRIMS-Donated Vehicles

    UNICAL VC Takes Delivery, Commissions PRIMS-Donated Vehicles

     

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has taken delivery of and commissioned vehicles donated under the PRIMS (Pregnancy, Risks, Infant, Measurement and Surveillance) project to support maternal and child health monitoring in Cross River State.

    Speaking during the brief ceremony, Prof. Offiong congratulated the research team for initiating a project that directly benefits both the university community and the wider Cross River community.

    He noted that the high rate of infant mortality associated with pregnancy-related complications remains a major concern, adding that Cross River State has been identified among the states affected by the challenge based on available statistics.

    He described the initiative as one that complements government efforts in addressing maternal and infant health challenges.

    “This is one of the projects that directly supports the efforts of the government in tackling maternal and infant mortality. I urge the team to handle these facilities properly and ensure they are effectively utilized,” he said.

    Prof. Offiong further stated that the University management has already provided guidelines on how the facilities will be used to ensure they serve their intended purpose.

    This is even as he expressed optimism that more development partners would extend similar gestures to the institution, assuring that the vehicles and facilities
    would be judiciously used.

    Earlier, the Site Lead and Director of the Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) at the University of Calabar, Prof. Iwara Iwara, explained that the vehicles were provided under a research grant linked to the PRIMS project.

    According to him, the project is being implemented in five states across the country including Cross River State, Lagos State, Katsina State, Plateau State and Bauchi State with the aim of monitoring pregnancies and tracking risk factors to ensure safer deliveries for pregnant women.

    Prof. Iwara stated that the grant is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, with the coordinating team based at the University of Lagos responsible for providing the equipment required for the project.

    He noted that the Cross River team competed alongside other site teams before emerging successful in securing the grant.

    “The grant includes a 2025 model Toyota RAV4 and a fully equipped ambulance fitted with medical equipment to assist women in rural communities.

    The ambulance will help ensure that pregnant women who require referrals are promptly transported to hospitals,” he explained.

    Also speaking, the Centre Director of HDSS at the University of Calabar, Prof. Martin Meremikwu, noted that research grants often involve intense competition among institutions.

    According to him, whenever grants are available, researchers must meet specific criteria in order to be selected.

    “In the research domain, there is always the possibility of attraction grants, and when they come, competition is inevitable. When this happens, there are clear criteria for selection, and that is simply what occurred in this case,” he said.

    Prof. Meremikwu explained that the University established a Demographic Health Surveillance System in 2012 through funding from Canada, which has continued to provide valuable health data for research and policy planning.

    He stated that through the surveillance system, staff members regularly visit homes and families every month in communities across Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Calabar and now Biase Local Government Area.

    According to him, the families visited are captured in the centre’s database, enabling researchers to monitor and understand the state of their health over time.

    He added that because the University already had a functioning research centre and data system, it was well positioned to compete when the pregnancy monitoring project was opened for bidding.

    “So when the project on pregnancy monitoring was advertised, we participated in the bidding process and eventually won the grant. That is why we are here today,” he said.

    The PRIMS project is expected to strengthen maternal health monitoring and improve emergency response for pregnant women, particularly in underserved rural communities across Cross River State.

    Public Relations Unit
    University of Calabar