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  • Cross River Police Pays N13.75m Life Assurance to Families of 17 Fallen Personnel

    Cross River Police Pays N13.75m Life Assurance to Families of 17 Fallen Personnel

    By Admin 

    The Cross River State Police Command has presented Group Life Assurance cheques totalling ₦13,753,885.36 to beneficiaries of 17 deceased police personnel in the state.

    The cheques were presented on Wednesday at the Command Headquarters in Calabar by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

    The payment followed the approval of the Inspector-General of Police for the release of the benefits to the families of the deceased personnel.

    Speaking at the presentation, CP Ajo expressed appreciation to the IGP for approving the payments, describing the gesture as evidence of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel and their families, even after the death of a serving officer.

    The Commissioner acknowledged the sacrifices of the deceased personnel, saying that while no financial assistance could replace a lost loved one, the payment would provide some support to the bereaved families.

    He also said the gesture would reassure serving police personnel that their sacrifices and welfare remain priorities within the Force.

    CP Ajo urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds and assured them of the continued support of the Command.

    He further charged officers and men of the Command to remain committed to their duties, uphold professionalism and serve with courage, discipline and integrity.

    The Commissioner also commended the families of the deceased personnel for their resilience and sacrifices, assuring them that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to recognise and honour the contributions of their loved ones to national security.

    He reiterated that personnel welfare remains an essential component of effective policing.

    The presentation was announced in a statement signed by ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akatah, Police Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Command, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.

  • Deputy Governor Onyeme Urges Deltans in Calabar to Promote Unity, Peace

    Deputy Governor Onyeme Urges Deltans in Calabar to Promote Unity, Peace

     

    The Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Sir Monday Onyeme, has urged Deltans resident in Calabar, Cross River State, to remain united, peaceful and worthy ambassadors of the state in their various places of residence.

    Sir Onyeme made the call in Calabar when he hosted leaders of Delta State ethnic groups and members of the Delta State Progressives, an umbrella body of Deltans resident in Cross River State.

    The Deputy Governor was in Calabar to represent the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, at the South-South Governors’ Forum meeting held in the Cross River State capital.

    Speaking during the meeting, Sir Onyeme thanked and commended the President of Delta State Progressives, Chief (Dr.) Masor Elvis, and leaders of the various Delta ethnic groups for taking time to meet with him during his official visit to Calabar.

    He described the gathering as a remarkable demonstration of unity and solidarity among Deltans living outside the state, stressing that their presence and commitment to the affairs of Delta State remained commendable.

    The Deputy Governor urged Deltans in Calabar to maintain peace in their place of residence and foster unity among themselves, noting that as indigenes of Delta State living outside the state, they were proud ambassadors of their home state.

    According to him, Deltans should conduct themselves in ways that would promote the good image of the state and contribute positively to the development of their host communities.

    Sir Onyeme further highlighted the developmental strides of the Governor Oborevwori administration, noting that Delta State was witnessing significant infrastructural development, improved peaceful coexistence and other initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing of the people.

    He called on Deltans resident in Cross River State to continue to support the administration of Governor Oborevwori, while also encouraging them to support the leadership of the Cross River State Government under His Excellency Senator Bassey Otu and the administration of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The Deputy Governor reiterated the commitment of the Delta State Government to the wellbeing of its people, stressing the importance of an inclusive approach to governance in which Deltans, including those residing outside the state, remain connected to the development agenda of the government.

    Earlier in his remarks, the President of Delta State Progressives, Cross River State Chapter, Chief (Dr.) Masor Elvis, thanked the Deputy Governor for creating time to meet with Deltans resident in Calabar despite his busy official schedule.

    Chief Masor, who was represented at the meeting by the President of Isoko Development Union, Calabar Branch, and Secretary-General of Delta State Progressives, Cross River State Chapter, Mr. Agare Onoriode Israel, commended the Delta State Government for what he described as viable and visible infrastructural projects across the state.

    He assured the government of the continued support of Deltans resident in Cross River State for the administration’s development agenda.

    Chief Masor stressed the need for the Delta State Government to further incorporate Deltans living outside the state into its programmes and activities, describing such inclusion as essential to achieving a truly inclusive government.

    He assured that Deltans resident in Cross River State would continue to conduct themselves responsibly and represent the state positively wherever they reside.

    In their separate contributions, leaders of the various Delta ethnic groups emphasised the need for unity, collaboration and peaceful coexistence among Deltans, describing these as critical ingredients for the continued development and progress of Delta State.

    Those in attendance include, the President of the Urhobo Progressive Union (UPU), Engr. Alex Oboripo; the President of the Anioma group, who was represented by Mr. Tony Adah; the President of Ukwani People, who was represented by Dr. Peter Ada;

    Others include, Vice President of Delta State Progressives, Cross River State Chapter, Mr. Ogun Joseph; and the Delta State Women Representative of APC Non-Indigenous People, Barr. Meg Eloho Adah and Mr. Alex Afcyra

    The leaders expressed their readiness to work together in promoting the interests of Delta State and pledged their continued support for the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the development of the state.

  • Ade Peter Ayim Dream Comes True As Sen Jarigbe’s Intervention Opens Door to UK Postgraduate Study

    Ade Peter Ayim Dream Comes True As Sen Jarigbe’s Intervention Opens Door to UK Postgraduate Study

    By Elijah Ugani 

    For Ade Peter Ayim, what once seemed like a distant childhood dream has finally become a reality as he prepares to travel to the United Kingdom to pursue postgraduate studies.

    Ayim, who described his journey as one marked by struggle, perseverance and determination, said the opportunity came through the intervention of Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.

    In a heartfelt account titled “From Struggle to the UK: How Senator Jarigbe Helped Me Fulfil a Lifelong Dream,” Ayim recounted how he lost his father at a young age and faced significant challenges while pursuing his education.

    According to him, his journey took him from Calabar to Lagos and eventually Ogoja, but despite the difficulties, he remained determined to acquire higher education.

    His academic journey has so far taken him through the University of Abuja, where he obtained a B.Sc. in Public Administration; the National Open University of Nigeria, where he earned an M.Sc. in Public Administration; and the University of Osun, where he obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Education.

    Ayim said that despite his academic achievements, one major aspiration remained unfulfilled, the opportunity to study outside Nigeria.

    He said that dream eventually materialised after he shared his aspirations through Mr. Joe Ulom, SLA, with Senator Jarigbe, who, according to Ayim, listened to his plans and intervened on his behalf.

    The intervention, he said, facilitated his selection for a postgraduate scholarship through the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to study MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Heriot-Watt University in the United Kingdom.

    Although Ayim had initially hoped to pursue a PhD, he said he accepted the opportunity with gratitude, describing it as an example of how prayers can sometimes be answered differently from what people expect.

    “For a young man who once struggled to afford air travel even within Nigeria, the thought of flying to the United Kingdom for postgraduate studies is overwhelming,” he said.

    Expressing excitement about the new chapter, Ayim declared: “Peter De Rock Aka Okute is finally flying!”

    He said the trip would mark his first journey outside Nigeria and would be undertaken not as a tourist but as a scholar pursuing another stage of his educational journey.

    Beyond the scholarship itself, Ayim described the opportunity as the fulfilment of a childhood dream and evidence that perseverance can eventually meet opportunity.

    He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the PTDF Executive Secretary and the entire PTDF family for what he described as their roles in making the opportunity possible.

    He also acknowledged his political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the platform had enabled him to become part of a political family through which the opportunity came.

    However, Ayim reserved his strongest appreciation for Senator Jarigbe, whom he described as his leader, mentor, principal and “destiny helper.”

    According to him, the senator’s support went beyond facilitating the scholarship, as Jarigbe also provided financial assistance towards the processing of his international passport, academic transcript and other preparations required for the journey.

    “Sir, you did more than open a door for me. You helped me walk through a door I had dreamed about since childhood,” Ayim wrote.

    Reflecting on the role his late father might have played in his life journey, Ayim said the opportunity had given him a sense that a journey his father could not complete was now continuing through another chapter of his life.

    “My late father did not live long enough to take me around the world. Today, I believe God has used another instrument to help continue a journey my earthly father could not complete,” he said.

    Ayim said the experience had also changed his perspective on missed opportunities, adding that he now believes that “delay is not denial” and that God’s timing may differ from human expectations.

    He further defended his decision to publicly appreciate Senator Jarigbe, saying he believed in celebrating individuals who contribute to the progress of others and leaders who create opportunities for people to succeed. “You have given me a story that I will proudly tell my children and grandchildren,” Ayim told the senator.

    He concluded his message by describing the opportunity as more than a scholarship, but as “a testimony,” “a dream fulfilled,” “grace” and “God.”

    For Ayim, the journey from struggling to pursue education in Nigeria to securing an opportunity for postgraduate study in the United Kingdom represents another significant chapter in a life defined by perseverance and ambition.

  • Ukelle Town Hall Meeting: Dr Okputu Highlights North Ukelle Road Project

    Ukelle Town Hall Meeting: Dr Okputu Highlights North Ukelle Road Project

     

    … Hon Hippolatus, Dr Achadu, Ukelle Traditional Ruler’s Council Caution Ukelle Youths Against Destructive Use of Social Media

     

    Ukelle leaders, traditional rulers and youths across Ukelle have called on the people of Ukelle to engage government constructively and sustain their advocacy in a positive light for the development of the area particularly the completion of the 5KM North Ukelle Road project and other amenities.

    They made this disclosure on Monday during a Town Hall meeting in Wanokom, North Ukelle. Dr Julius Okputu, one of the leaders at the forefront said the purpose of the gathering was closely connected to the long standing development challenges facing the Ukelle people and the efforts of successive administrations to address them.

    He recalled that Ukelle was the first of the 25 state constituencies visited by Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu after his election. According to him, the Governor was received at the Cross River and Ebonyi boundary security post in Ipollo, Ntrigom, South Ukelle before touring the six Ukelle wards and ended the visit at the Wanihem Benue border after Okolor bridge.

    Described in several quarters in Ukelle as one of the best leaders with sustainable infrastructure to his credit. Dr Okputu said the Governor subsequently approved the award of the first 5kilometre phase of the North Ukelle Road project on July 1, 2024.

    Even as he explained that the initial project design could have focused on the easier and more accessible section of the road that would have left out some of the most difficult portions around Apata, Okpodon, Ezekwe, Okpaka and Wanokom.

    However, he said the approach to take the difficult spots for intervention was changed after Governor Otu visited Apata at the commencement of work and inspected the project and directed the Ministry of Works and infrastructure to implement a new design that would more closely reflect the requirements of a Trunk A Federal Road.

    According to Okputu, the Yahe-Wanokom-Wanikade-Wanihem Benue Border Road is a properly gazetted Federal Road and had previously been presented to the Federal Government including during the maiden visit of the current Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, to Cross River State after the 2023 elections.

    He said the original Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME) and sectional design for the 5KM were reviewed following a reconnaissance and geotechnical survey.

    The survey according to him confirmed the virgin nature of the road and identified difficult soil conditions, including shale deposits, with about 85 per cent of the route consisting of swampy and marshy sections.

    As a result, Dr Okputu said the revised design increased the road width from 7.3 metres to 10.3 metres, beginning from Apata. It also introduced a 300mm sand blanket, an impermeable geomembrane, another 300mm sand blanket and a 300mm laterite/sand mixture as sub-base.

    The redesign included a short-span mini bridge at the approach, a culvert 250 metres from the approach and two double-cell culverts approximately 500 metres from the approach.He further explained that the new design provided for an asphaltic binder course for durability.

    Dr Okputu also urged Ukelle to remain appreciative to the Governor to ensure that the North Ukelle Road, which he described as a roughly 40-kilometre swampy and marshy stretch characterised by clay and shale receives an appropriate binder course before the final wearing course.

    He also disclosed that the revised design provided for the expansion of the Chief Ilom Bridge from 4.2 metres to 12 metres, as well as the expansion of the Capital Hill area following the removal of rocks.

    Reflecting on his journey of service, he listed several infrastructure projects executed during periods when he held various public offices not as an elected official but a subordinate.

    He said among other things the construction of Okolor bridge between 2004 and 2007, six short-span bridges, more than 17 culverts and drains, the Aleluyah Bridge, Agbe Lihaak Lifa Bridge in Wanokom and Igbor Bridge in Wanihem.

    He also recalled an electrification project stretching from Ipollo Ntrigom in South Ukelle to Wanihem in North Ukelle, which he described as the longest electrification project in Cross River State at the time.

    Addressing the Ukelle youths from all works of life, Elder Dr Hippolatus Lukpata said the weight of the moment requires deep reflection and discussion as brothers in order to toe the path of development in Ukelle.

    ” We cannot pretend that all is well” he said the youths are the future of Ukelle and should direct their energy towards peace and development of Ukelle. He proposed a peace, development and reconciliation committee to always address issues instead of resorting to vulgar language on social media pages which destroys the reputation of Ukelle.

    Similarly, the member representing Ukelle in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Dr Martins Achadu strongly condemned all insults at constituted authorities. He offered himself to the people. He urged them to heap all abuses on him instead of abusing people he always run to make a case for Ukelle nation. He outrightly condemned the action as an act of destruction.

    The chairman of Ukelle Traditional Ruler’s Council, His Royal Highness Ubeet Ignatius Olem expressed displeasure with the social media activities of some Ukelle youths.

    ” We need to conduct ourselves properly and appeal to government for things respectfully because Ukelle has suffered. Any government that takes meaningful steps to our problems, let Ukelle youths respect constituted authorities. Let’s leave dialogue open. Appeal let’s talk to ourselves rather than resorting to social media”.

    In his short exhortation at the Town Hall meeting Rev. Stephen Okem urged Ukelle youths to honour their leaders because they are to bring the light to the nation.

    ” God has a good plan for this land and God has raised men to bring about the goodness of the land. Our leaders are not anti progress. They are for the goodness of the land and giving them honour procures progress to the land. Ukelle youths should work in oneness, be in unity and work together. The best way for us to progress is to yield yourselves to authorities”.

    The Ukelle Town Hall meeting which drew traditional rulers, Ukelle leaders, youths and the clergy ended with a Communique which condemned in vehement terms the unpatriotic exploitation of Ukelle circumstances, especially the commercialisation and politicisation of Ukelle agonies in the media space.

    Similarly, the Chiefs, Elders, Women and Youth of the land as representatives of the entire Ukelle Nation, dissociate and completely reject the abusive, uncouth and destructive language of that infinitesimal number who are sponsored and are clearly set on a voyage of self- destructive use of the social media space.

    Ukelle nation sincerely appreciates the effort of government at its Cross sectoral development of the nation. 98 percent youths who are resident sincerely appreciate this effort and are simply asking for greater development for the people.

  • Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe Celebrates 60th Birthday With Tribute to Service, Scholarship and Community Development

    Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe Celebrates 60th Birthday With Tribute to Service, Scholarship and Community Development

     

    A prominent Cross Riverian, scholar, mediator and community leader, Papa Dorn CK Enamhe, has been celebrated on the occasion of his 60th birthday for his decades of service, scholarship, peacebuilding and advocacy for community development.

    In a congratulatory message signed by the President of the Bekwarra Community Association, University of Calabar, Engr. Prof. Odey A. Osha, FCAI, Enamhe was described as a man whose life exemplifies “service, scholarship and an unwavering love for his community.”

    Born and raised in Atibulum, Gakem, in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State, Enamhe has built a career spanning academia, law, mediation, community mobilisation and public advocacy.

    He currently serves as a lecturer in the Department of Social Work at the University of Calabar. His academic interests and qualifications cut across several disciplines, including Agriculture, Sociology, Environmental Science, Education Law, Social Work, Public Administration and Political Science.

    According to Osha, however, Enamhe’s greatest contribution extends beyond his academic accomplishments, noting that his commitment to the welfare of vulnerable people and the development of communities has distinguished him over the years.

    The celebrant has played notable roles in peacebuilding and community intervention, including efforts toward the repatriation of the remains of the late Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas, as well as initiatives aimed at rehabilitating the Belegete communities following cross-border attacks.

    As a Chartered Mediator, Enamhe has also been involved in peace and reconciliation efforts in communities across Cross River State, including Yala and Ogoja.

    His advocacy for the creation of Ogoja State has further positioned him as a prominent voice on issues concerning the political and socioeconomic development of the people of the northern senatorial district.

    As Convener of the Movement for the Creation of Ogoja State, Enamhe has continued to advocate for the aspirations of communities seeking greater political recognition and development.

    He is also associated with the “Think Cross River” initiative, through which he has advocated for the protection and reclamation of the state’s resources and territorial interests. His advocacy has been underscored by the phrase, “coordinates do not lie.”

    His appointment as Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River by the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, was described by Osha as a recognition of his strategic advocacy and longstanding commitment to public service.

    Beyond his professional and public engagements, Enamhe has received traditional recognition for his commitment to community welfare. He is known by the title “Papa Wey U Keh Balare Ukpere 1 of Basang Obanliku,” interpreted as “The Father Who Takes Care of Elders.”

    Osha described the title as a reflection of Enamhe’s personality and his longstanding concern for the welfare of others.

    The birthday message also celebrated Enamhe as a family man, describing him as a devoted husband to Mrs. Pam Enamhe and a loving father of four children.

    As he clocks 60, the Bekwarra Community Association, University of Calabar, joined family, friends and associates in celebrating what it described as decades of visionary leadership, intellectual contribution, community service and advocacy.

    Osha wished the celebrant renewed strength, peace, joy and fulfillment, expressing the hope that Enamhe would continue to make meaningful contributions to Cross River State and beyond.

    “Happy Birthday, Papa,” Osha said, urging the celebrant to continue shining his light and inspiring generations to come.

    Signed:
    Engr. Prof. Odey A. Osha, FCAI
    President, Bekwarra Community Association, University of Calabar
    September 9, 2026

  • Tribute To Papa DC Enamhe At 60 – A Diamond Jubilee BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    Tribute To Papa DC Enamhe At 60 – A Diamond Jubilee BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

     

    Today is the birthday anniversary of a classmate; a conservative radical and revolutionary; an activist; a progressive politician; a lawyer; an academic; a sociologist; a Doctor of Philosophy; a fighter of worthy causes; and a man who is an enigma in every ramification.

    I know him so well because our paths crossed almost fifty years ago, when we were starry-eyed boys entering secondary school, swept by innocence and totally oblivious of what the future held for us.

    Even though we grew up in a country just emerging from a bloody and tragic civil war — a war that disrupted the lives of our parents in particular and the country in general — we triumphed. Notwithstanding the stumbles and setbacks we suffered here and there, we rose like the phoenix, shook off the lethargy of our environment, and made a success of our lives.

    Papa DC Enamhe, congratulations on attaining 60 — your Diamond Jubilee and your entry into the club of sexagenarians — in an environment where the average life span is less than 45 and where hundreds of our contemporaries have since gone to the great beyond to enjoy the perpetual eternal rest that awaits us all whenever it pleases our Creator.

    We are hard fellows, men of justice, who fight for everyone around us to our own detriment, unmindful of the dire consequences of fighting for others in a society brimming with crass opportunists.

    I remember how, as boys in Mary Knoll College, Okuku, we conspired like legendary conspirators to fight what we believed was an act of consistent and persistent oppression by those bigger than us. Our audacity and courage would never allow us to see something we believed was wrong and walk away, close our eyes, and leave it unchallenged.

    This rebelliousness and revulsion against the establishment, against oppression, and this quest for social justice is genetically ingrained in the veins of Papa DC. It manifested as early as when we were in Class One in 1977, when students of Mary Knoll College, enraged and peeved by the incompetence and maladministration of its Principal, Mr. E. E. Okon, revolted in the famous “Okon Must Go” protest march. That act ruffled feathers in a school established by the Catholic Church to train and prime its students to be pro-establishment and not to rock the boat.

    That same rebellion against acts of oppression by senior students later led to a serious crisis between the students of Mary Knoll College and the students of the School of Basic Studies, which Mary Knoll College was then temporarily hosting, and ultimately led to the decision by the Government of the old Cross River State to relocate the School of Basic Studies from Mary Knoll to Akamkpa.

    Leaders are naturally born. God bestows leadership at the point of conception in their mother’s womb and instils charismatic traits of the kind the German sociologist Max Weber wrote about — charismatic authority as a distinct form of legitimate rule, alongside traditional and legal-rational authority. Papa DC is one such leader. To that extent, in 1981, when both of us conspired to lead the rebellion that resulted in the clash against SBS students, he was the one nominated by the Mary Knoll students to speak at the Divisional Police Station in Ogoja, where the police had rounded up both combatants to resolve the matter.

    That trait which you incubated in those heady, innocent days has guided, influenced, and shaped your entire life to this Diamond moment.

    Many happy returns to a worthy sexagenarian.

    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

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

  • Jarigbe Celebrates Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe at 60, Hails His Service and Political Contributions

    Jarigbe Celebrates Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe at 60, Hails His Service and Political Contributions

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has congratulated the Senior Special Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on the Think Cross River Project, Dr. Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

    In a goodwill message marking the milestone, Senator Jarigbe described Enamhe as a dedicated public servant and accomplished scholar whose life has been defined by commitment, principle and selfless service to humanity.

    The lawmaker particularly acknowledged the role played by Enamhe in his political journey, noting his contributions as Director-General of the Senator’s Campaign Council during the 2023 elections.

    According to Jarigbe, Enamhe deployed strategic brilliance, tactical discipline and unwavering commitment in helping to translate his political aspirations into electoral victory.

    “Beyond the titles and accolades, what truly sets you apart is your character. You are a consummate scholar, a polished politician, and indeed, a man for all generations.

    “Your liberality and altruistic nature have broken down age barriers, allowing you to mentor the young, inspire your peers, and honour the elders with equal grace,” the Senator said.

    Jarigbe further described the celebrant as a “unifier, a bridge-builder, and a rare gem,” stressing that Enamhe’s contributions to society had earned him widespread respect across generations.

    The Senator, who is currently overseas on an official engagement, joined family, friends and associates of the celebrant in celebrating the milestone and offered prayers for his continued good health and strength.

    “May this 60th year open the floodgates of bountiful blessings and just recompense for your years of hard work, unyielding resilience, and remarkable selflessness.

    “May you eat the fruits of your labour and see your children’s children in peace and prosperity,” Jarigbe prayed.

    He congratulated Dr. Enamhe on attaining the landmark age of 60 and wished him many more years of good health, fulfilment and impactful service to humanity.

  • ATMCares Foundation Caps Service Week With Medical Outreach, Royal Homage, Governor’s Praise

    ATMCares Foundation Caps Service Week With Medical Outreach, Royal Homage, Governor’s Praise

     

    The ATMCares Foundation, a subsidiary of ATMPress Nigeria Limited, has concluded a week-long programme of humanitarian service, cultural engagement and stakeholder interaction across Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The activities, spearheaded by the foundation’s founder, Amb. David Ayoka Atim, included the foundation’s third annual free medical outreach, a courtesy visit to traditional rulers in Mbube and participation in the Northern Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting.

    The week-long activities culminated in a meeting with the Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, in Ogoja on Monday, August 31, 2026.

    Hundreds Benefit From Free Medical Outreach
    The foundation’s third annual free medical outreach was held on Saturday, August 29, at Christ the King Primary School, Odajie-Mbube, Ogoja LGA, as part of activities around the community’s New Yam Festival of Mbube

    The outreach provided residents with free medical screening, consultations, medication and health education.

    To improve access, the foundation reportedly provided free transportation from all 10 wards in Ogoja to the venue.

    Beneficiaries included residents, community leaders, members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, security personnel and other dignitaries attending the New Yam Festival.

    Medical services offered included malaria and typhoid screening, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, eye examinations, medication dispensing and health counselling.

    Hundreds of reading glasses were also distributed to beneficiaries following eye screenings, while massage services were provided alongside health education on sickle cell disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, menstrual health and menopause.

    The outreach attracted members of the traditional institution, including the Sariki of Cross River and members of his entourage, who participated in the medical screening alongside other residents.

    On Sunday, August 30, Amb. Atim and members of the medical team visited the Traditional Rulers Council of Mbube and the Clan Head as part of the foundation’s community engagement activities.

    The visit provided an opportunity for the foundation to pay homage to the traditional institution and acknowledge its role in preserving the cultural heritage of the community.

    The traditional rulers also benefited from the medical services, including health checks, eye examinations, distribution of reading glasses, massages, prescribed medications and a cash donation of half a million Naira

    The royal fathers expressed appreciation to Amb. David Ayoka Atim and the foundation for extending the humanitarian initiative to members of the traditional institution.

    The activities continued on Monday, August 31, with the Northern Senatorial District Stakeholders’ Meeting at the Ogoja Council Headquarters.

    A major highlight of the gathering was the presentation of a large consignment of agricultural and food items by Amb. Atim to Governor Bassey Otu.

    The presentation included one very big cow, 100 tubers of yam, 20 large bunches of plantain and 100 litres of palm oil.

    Governor Otu reportedly described the gesture as a “presidential” gift and expressed appreciation to Amb. David Atim for his continued support for the people of Ogoja and Cross River State.

    The governor also commended the humanitarian activities of the ATMCares Foundation and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon Atim and his team for their service to the people.

    The conclusion of the activities marked the end of a week that combined healthcare delivery, cultural engagement and interaction with political and community stakeholders.

    For the ATMCares Foundation, the programme was presented as part of its broader commitment to grassroots intervention, particularly in the area of accessible healthcare.

    Following the activities in Ogoja, Amb. Atim and his entourage returned to Calabar.

    The foundation said the week’s engagements reinforced its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities while working with traditional institutions, government and other stakeholders toward improved welfare and development in Cross River State.

  • Infrastructural Decay Of Ikom Metropolis BY EBAYE AKONJOM

    Infrastructural Decay Of Ikom Metropolis BY EBAYE AKONJOM

     

    Ikom, the premier commercial hub of Cross River State is similar in status to Aba in Abia State, Warri in Delta State and Onitsha in Anambra State, the difference in respect of lkom being the fact that the IGR yielding international border town, that is well located on the center of the state has been grossly neglected for more than a decade.

    This bustling commercial nerve-centre of the state lacks roads as all the streets are in very deplorable state. The town has also been without electricity for almost 2 decades.

    Apart from during Duke and Imoke regimes, Ikom has not been given its pride of place in the comity of major towns inspite of its additional status as the headquarters of the Central Senatorial District. Even at the apogee of her glory, Ikom has never had up to 15km of streets or network of roads.

    Whilst under the same APC led administration, Ogoja has within the same two year period, been provided with well paved 30kms asphalted roads, with another 20kms being constructed to major communities of Mbube.

    Ugep town has more than 35kms of asphalted streets, not to mention the tarred streets of Ekori, Mkpani,
    Nko, Idomi, Agoi Ekpo and Agoi Ibami, etc.

    The amiable deputy governor of Cross River State recently flagged off a 28km ring road from Obubra – Ofumbongha – Yala to Ochon and work is ongoing at almost jet speed. Ikom, how far na?

    As for power or electricity, its absence has been sadly accepted by the residents of lkom as the new normal since the town has been without electricity for upwards of 20 years.

    The siting of the zonal PHED office in lkom, which has tuned into a museum like monument and the appointment of a very celebral son of lkom as the Commissioner for Power did not better the power situation in lkom.

    Ikom residents and indigenous population are wise enough not to put the blame on the Commissioner and other government appointees for the absence of roads, power and other infrastructures in Ikom but squarely on senior lkom leaders who have the ears of the governor, minister and legislators but chose to prioritize their personal political and economic gains instead of pursuing infrastructure that would benefit the greater majority of lkom people.

    If the APC and government of the day continues to neglect lkom as it is doing, it should also not expect lkom to be nice to them during the elections since just like Jos, Lagos and Kano, lkom has a political mind of her own and does not follow parties or government in power but only patronizes parties and governments that patronizes lkom by attending to her needs.

    I advise the government to fix lkom streets/roads, provide power/ electricity which are crucial infrastructures for her people.

    Our inflential political leaders, who the governor, ministers and leaders of the national assembly respect should use their good offices to lobby the government to urgently take infrastructure to lkom.

    Thank you.

    Ebaye Akonjom.
    Former Chairman, Ikom LGA.

     

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

  • Obudu Chairman’s Aide Donates Food, Cash to Women in New Yam Festival Outreach

    Obudu Chairman’s Aide Donates Food, Cash to Women in New Yam Festival Outreach

     

    Aged women, widows and other vulnerable residents of Ohong Village in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State have received food items and cash donations from Mr. Julius Akem, Protocol Officer to the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council.

    The gesture was part of activities marking the 2026 Obudu New Yam Festival and took place on Tuesday at the Akem family compound in Ohong, his home community.

    The beneficiaries, drawn from across the village, gathered for an afternoon of celebration, fellowship and community support as Akem distributed food items and cash to the women.

    Speaking at the event, Akem thanked the beneficiaries for honouring his invitation and joining his family to celebrate the New Yam Festival.

    He said the outreach was part of his commitment to giving back to his community, particularly by supporting vulnerable residents during festive periods and other occasions when assistance is most needed.

    According to him, the initiative was not his first intervention in the community, as he had consistently looked for opportunities to support residents and put smiles on their faces.

    Akem also said the gesture was his modest contribution towards complementing the welfare initiatives of his principal, the Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM.

    He explained that supporting vulnerable members of the community was a way of complementing the Chairman’s social welfare efforts while appreciating his administration’s commitment to the wellbeing of the people of Obudu.

    The outreach offered the beneficiaries an opportunity to celebrate the New Yam season in an atmosphere of unity and togetherness while receiving practical assistance amid prevailing economic challenges.

    Also speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and wellbeing of residents across the council area.

    Undiandeye particularly highlighted the importance of supporting elderly persons, widows and other vulnerable members of society.

    He commended Akem for the initiative, describing it as consistent with the social welfare agenda of his administration.

    The Chairman said although his administration was focused on infrastructure and other development projects, it also recognised the need for interventions that directly impact the lives of ordinary residents and provide assistance to those in need.

    He urged other well-meaning individuals, public officials and community leaders to emulate the gesture by supporting vulnerable people in their communities and promoting compassion, unity and shared prosperity.

    The beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the donation, with the women spontaneously breaking into songs of thanksgiving and praise as they celebrated the support and the opportunity to come together during the festive season.

    The event was witnessed by the Vice Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon. Rhoda Ashong; Leader of the Obudu Legislative Assembly, Hon. Sam Ashibi; councillors and other appointees of the council.