The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Peter Akpanke Celebrates Easter Sunday With Market Women At Abochiche 

    Earlier today, Hon. Peter Akpanke, the esteemed representative of Obanliku, Bekwarra and Obudu Federal Constituency, demonstrated his commitment to community engagement and solidarity by celebrating Easter with market women at Abochiche junction.

    The unplanned event, held in the heart of the community market while Hon. Peter Akpanke was on his way from a Ceremonial Engagement in Ogoja.

    Akpanke held that “I will always support market women because, they play a vital role in the local economy and social fabric.”

    Following his remarks, Hon. Akpanke distributed some cash gift in appreciation to the market women, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the economy.

    One of the constituents said that  “We have never seen a thing like this before in Bekwarra”

    The Rock is Solid!

  • One Of The Greatest Lessons I Learnt This Holy Week And About Life In General Is That Some Of The People Who Hate, Betray And Oppose What You Stand For, Also End Up Leading You To Victory Without Meaning To Do So BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    VICTORY

    One of the greatest lessons I learnt this Holy week and about life in general is that some of the people who hate you, betray you and oppose what you stand for, also end up leading you to Victory without meaning to do so. If you agree with me on this, then you are about to define the meaning of Victory in your life; you are about to redesign a new strategy of happiness. Victory happens when you stop expecting the world to affirm you as a person; because in this world, half of the people will like you and the other half will hate you, no matter what you say or do.

    Let’s take the story of Jesus Christ for example (as Peter recalls in Acts 10: 34, 37-43), who came into the world and went about doing good (v. 38). He recruited a few confidants, with the hope of using them to establish a kingdom of love, but some of them betrayed him, while others stuck with him till the end. He was consequently handed over to be crucified. They mocked, scourged and finally crucified the very man who had the power to give life (v.39). At last the cross he was crucified on became the symbol of Victory after he rose again on the third day (vs.40-41). That’s victory for you.

    Some have likened the story of Jesus to some leaders in the recent past. In 2015, the then Nigerian President Jonathan lost election to his opponent. He had the power to manipulate himself to win, but he did not. Rather he accepted the humiliation of his defeat and turned around to congratulate his opponent. That’s Victory. Nelson Mandela of South Africa spent 27 years in prison, came out to forgive his jailers and subsequently became President himself. That’s Victory.

    Lets focus again on Jesus and how his story effects our life. In the gospel we hear about a certain unnamed disciple who followed Jesus to Calvary and remained with him throughout his Passion while others like Judas betrayed him and Peter ran away. After the resurrection, this unnamed disciple ran faster than Peter, “saw and believed” whereas Peter though seeing the same thing did not believe. Confronted with the signs of death (the tomb, the linen cloths and the shroud) the unnamed disciple recognized the victory of life while Peter could not (John 20: 1-9).

    You are that unnamed disciple. You will see Victory if you endure the pain of whatever humiliation you have been through and will go through if you look ahead. Victory will be yours if you forgive those who betray you and focus your mind on something rather positive. Victory will be yours if you accept the fact that life is not all about you, but about the peace and happiness of the people you serve. Victory will be yours if you stop deceiving yourself that everyone must like you and agree with you and affirm you because that can never happen.

    Begin now to understand the meaning of the Cross and how it can lead you to your resurrection (Victory) as it did to Jesus. Happy Easter !

  • Easter: C’River Deputy Governor Urges Christians To Imbibe Jesus’ Virtue Of Love

    As Christians across the World commemorate Easter Celebration, His Excellency, Rt Hon. Dr. Peter Odey has enjoined Christians and Cross Riverians to imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ which is to love one another with pureness of heart and sincerity of purpose.

    He reminded them that love is what rules the world and conquers even the darkest of places, noting that Christ is the greatest teacher of love.

    According to him, “The resurrection of Jesus Christ reminds us of the love of the Father. It brings to mind His loving kindness for mankind and what Christ represents. It should draw us back to Christ and the counsel of God for your life shall stand…

    “As we celebrate the burial and resurrection of Christ, may we be reminded that love is what rules the world. Love conquers even the darkest of places and Christ is the greatest teacher of love. It is my earnest prayer that you experience peace, soundness of mind and body and the love of the Father in your hearts.”

    He charged Christians to use the period to pray for the state, country and leaders at all levels.

    The Deputy Governor used the opportunity to expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the good people of Cross River State for their unwavering support to the present administration under the able leadership of the ‘People First’ Governor, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu.

    He wished Cross Riverians and Christians a glorious Easter celebration.

  • Thanksgiving: Jarigbe Says What He Has Done So Far Is A Tip Of An Iceberg

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom has stated that what his constituents has seen in terms of projects execution in Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State, is a tip an iceberg and assured them to expect more in the coming days.

    Jarigbe made the disclosure during the thanksgiving mass held in honor at St Benedict Cathedral, Ogoja Local Government Area today 31st March 2024.

    In his words “My heart overflows with gratitude and humility on this memorable day of our thanksgiving. Our victory in the recent general elections, against formidable odds, is not merely a personal triumph but a collective achievement of unwavering determination and unyielding support. What you have seen in terms of projects execution is just a tip of an iceberg compared to what lies ahead of us.

    “To my constituents of Cross River North Senatorial District, your faith in me, your overwhelming support, and your resolute determination to see change have propelled us to this historic moment. Your voices, your votes, and unwavering belief in a better future have spoken volumes, and I am deeply honored to have earned your trust. Rest assured, I carry your aspirations with me to the hallowed halls of the senate, and I pledge to serve you with utmost dedication, integrity and passion.

    “To the dignitaries and guests gathered here today, your presence signifies not only your support but also your commitment to the democratic process. Your encouragement and endorsement have bolstered our campaign and lent credibility to our cause. I extend my heartfelt appreciation for your solidarity.

    “In a special way, I want to express my profound gratitude to those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, whose dedication often goes unnoticed but whose contributions are invaluable. From the church, campaign volunteers to party officials, from grassroots organizers to community leaders, each of you has played an indispensable role in our journey to victory. Your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed, and I am forever indebted to your selfless service.

    “In conclusion, I must acknowledge the incumbent Governor of our state, who despite the intensity of our competition, has conducted himself with dignity and respect as he governs the state. Our democracy thrives on robust debate and healthy competition, and I am grateful for the opportunity to engage in such a spirited contest.

    “As we gather here today to celebrate our triumph, let us not forget that our work has only just commenced. The challenges ahead are gargantuan, but so too is our resolve to overcome them. Together, let us build a future that is brighter, more prosperous and more inclusive for all”.

    The thanksgiving mass which was attended by senators, House of Representatives members, leaders of the PDP, industry players, traditional rulers, religious leaders and constituents.

    The lawmaker made a donation of 10M to support the ongoing renovation work at St Benedict’s Cathedral Ogoja, and 2M to support the Christian Women Organization CWO.

    The Senate President, Sen Godswill Akpabio, made a donation of 50M through Sen Jarigbe Agom, to support the building of the new cathedral that is already under construction.

    On his part, Bishop Donatus Edet Akpan, commended senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, who he addressed as his spiritual son, having recognized the source of his victory and reminded all that power and all authorities comes from God.

    The Bishop noted that so some of those that God came through for them, did not deem it necessary to return to God in thanksgiving.

    He used the opportunity to encourage Sen Jarigbe Agom, to continue to serve his people with sincerity of purpose.

  • Bishop Akpan Admonishes Nigerian Leaders To Acquire Wealth Legitimately And Not Through Fraud

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Local Ordinary and Catholic Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, the Most Rev Donatus Akpan, has admonished Nigerian leaders to acquire their wealth through legitimate means and not by fraud.

    Bishop Akpan gave the adminition during a thanksgiving mass in honor of Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, held today Easter Sunday, March 31st 2024.

    In his words “Acquire your wealth legitimately and not through fraud. If you occupy any office and you have influence over your people, make truth your watchword and when your people realize it, they will respect you. Those who don’t like the truth, will run away.
    Truth is what is lacking in our country today.

    “I know in politics, number matters. When majority runs away because of your truth, don’t give up”.

    The Bishop admonished Christians to be heavenly conscious when he said “Set your eyes in things that are above and not on things that are on earth.

    “On this Easter morning when the Lord rose triumphantly from the grave. We are gathered to celebrate because he has overcome death and grace. Since we are united with him, we are over-comers. It is true that he has risen testified by those who are closed to him and he has ordered them to announce it to the world. The women were there, they saw what they couldn’t understand. The ran to the brethren that the corpse of their master was missing. They went and confirmed it.

    “When Jesus was with them, preaching the gospel, he told them that the son of man was going to be crucified and will rise again, but they couldn’t believe him. Today Jesus is alive. All of us have died with him. And have risen with him. He now admonished us to announce this gospel to all ends of the earth.

    “We must not allow the things of this world to prevent us from living the life of Christ and the example thereof. He is the truth and we have to bare witnesses to the truth. As christians, if we find problem with the truth, then we have to find a way to our identity. If we are united with Jesus, we have to know the truth and the truth shall set you free.

    “We who have chosen Christ as our portion must know the truth and stand by it. When we speak the truth, certain people will not like it, never you mind, as far as the truth is pleasing to your master.

    “I know in politics, number matters. When majority runs away because of your truth, don’t give up”.

    Referring to the celebrant, Sen Jarigbe the Bishop said “My dear son and brother, Jarigbe, God wants you to witness among your people. He has given you this exalted office to test you and see how you could use it to the good of the common people.

    “So far, I have been hearing people say that you’re a human being. If the voice of the people which is the voice of God said that you are a real human being, please keep it up”.

    Bishop Akpan used the opportunity to charge the congregation to continue to pray for Sen Jarigbe Agom as he provide the representation needed of him.

  • Jarigbe, Akpanke, Offiono Thanks Northern Stakeholders, Doles Out 54M For Easter Celebration

    By Elijah Ugani 

    It was a moment of celebration for stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party PDP, in Northern Senatorial District, as Sen Jarigbe Agom announced a whooping sum of 54M to assist party faithfuls celebrate Easter.

    The Stakeholder’s meeting which held at Gomara Hotels Ogoja Local Government Area today March 30th, is part of activities to mark the lawmaker’s victory at the 2023 general election and subsequent Court of Appeal judgement that upheld his election.

    Sen Jarigbe who expressed gratitude to his constituents for the determination during the last general elections noted that “you voted for service, you were not voting for siren and so I owe you nothing but the service you voted for. Thank you very much for standing for the truth. I can only thank you by reciprocating through action and not words. I will continue to do what I need to do to ensure that you feel my representation”.

    He used the opportunity to appeal to those who will have contrary views to be patient as not everything will be done as expected when he posited that”Not everyone will be satisfied
    If you have not seen what you think you want to see, exercise patient, please tolerate us, gradually we will ensure that the needs of our people are adequately attended to”

    Continuing, the lawmaker commended stakeholders for turning out for the meeting and averred that “As part of the Easter celebration, my brothers and colleagues at the House of Representatives and State House of Assembly, and I have put together 54M for you. 1M for each ward for the Easter celebration. We can not thank you enough for all your sacrifices and support during the election.

    “The money is meant for party supporters, please take it back to the ward and hold your ward meetings and share it to the various units. For those who attend this meeting, use #100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) only for your logistics. Any leader who share the money here will be sanction”

    Earlier, five stakeholders representing the local governments that made up Northern Senatorial District and restated commitment to the PDP.

    A former Secretary to the Cross River State government, Mr Mike Aniah Esq, advised the party against imposition of candidates as the party prepares for congresses.

    On their parts, the members representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku, Ogoja/Yala in the house of representatives and those in the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly, elected under the PDP, Hon Charles Omang Esq, Hon Pius Ashakia and Hon Martins Achadu PhD, took turn to commend the stakeholders for their support and pledged to support their leader, Sen Jarigbe Agom, provide the dividends of democracy to them.

    The Chairman of PDP, Cross River State Chapter, Mr Venatius Ikem, commended stakeholders for responding to the call for the meeting and noted that “the attendance in this meeting is unprecedented. We will continue to build on what we have already began.

    “Let me use this medium to invite you all to join our leader, Sen Jarigbe Agom in thanksgiving tomorrow, for the many things God has used him to do for us.

    “God has used Sen Jarigbe Agom, to clean the mess Ayade created for us as Northern Senatorial District. We are very proud of him”.

    Mr Ikem used the opportunity to announce that the National Executive Committee of the party has instructed the ward and chapter committee members of the party to function in acting capacity following the expiration of their tenure, pending the conduct of congresses.

  • Constituents Calls On Sen Jarigbe Agom And Hon Peter Akpanke To Provide Water For Them, Displayed Coloured Water Used In The Community

    BY Elijah Ugani 

    Mrs Cecilia Egbaji Ushie Esq, who hails from Okworogung, Utugwang South ward of Obudu Local Government Area has taken to her verified Facebook page, to decry the poor state of water (muddy), used in the community.

    Mrs Ushie said the only source of water provided by Sen Jarigbe Agom for the community, they keep vigil to be able to get the water.

    She used the opportunity to call on Sen Jarigbe Agom and Hon Peter Akpanke to come to their aid and provide alternative source of water for the community.

    https://www.facebook.com/share/1rkmjsD9aKBpDsw3/?mibextid=oFDknk

  • Constituents Commends Sen Jarigbe Agom As Medical outreach Hits Obudu

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom continue to receive commendation from his constituents as a team of medical personnel reach Obudu for the concluding part of the medical outreach.

    The outreach which commenced on Monday at the Catholic Maternity Hospital Monaya, Ogoja for constituents in Bekwarra and Ogoja, extended to Okuku and Okpoma for constituents in Yala local government area.

    On Thursday, the team moved to Obudu Local Government Area for constituents of Obudu and Obanliku.

    In separate encounters, beneficiaries of the outreach expressed their appreciation to the senator for always putting the yearnings and aspirations of his people first.

    One of the beneficiaries of the out outreach, Mr Thomas Adie, noted that senator Jarigbe Agom, has shown unprecedented representation in all aspects of his dealings and asked God to grant him the grace to continue to serve his people.

    On her part, Mrs Elizabeth Ugar whose child was operated upon, wondered where she would have provided the resources to pay the bills that the medical outreach afforded her the opportunity to benefit from the magnanimity of the senator.

    The mega outreach which was held at Sacred Heart Hospital Obudu, is to end on Saturday, March 30th for Obudu and Obanliku Local Government Areas.

    Speaking to TheLumineNews, the Hospital Administrator of Sacred Heart Hospital Obudu, Rev Fr Barnard Anake, commended senator Jarigbe Agom, for the outreach and noted that a lot of people have accessed healthcare.

    On sustainable alternative, Fr Benard stated that a health insurance system where constituents can access healthcare without necessarily waiting for the outreach as this approach will be holistic and comprehensive.

  • How Can You Fine-tune Your Operational Strategies As A Service-related Business? BY JUSTINA OVAT

     

    How can you identify the most influential factors affecting service efficiency and tailor your operations accordingly, leading to enhanced customer experiences and improved business outcomes?

    What methodologies can you apply to identify critical factors influencing your success?

    How can you make informed decisions?

    How can you develop strategies that improve performance and enhance your customer’s journey?

    Ultimately, how can you optimize service?

    One way is through Sensitivity Analysis.

    Sensitivity analysis isn’t just for numbers; it’s a valuable tool for businesses navigating the critical role of service delivery.

    Service optimization relies on sensitivity analysis to fine-tune operational strategies effectively. By adjusting one aspect of service delivery while maintaining others constant, you can assess impact on overall performance and customer satisfaction.

    For instance, a restaurant might experiment with different seating arrangements, staffing levels, or menu options to see how each change influences wait times, service quality, and customer feedback.

    A hospital might conduct sensitivity analysis to evaluate the impact of changes in staffing levels on patient wait times, treatment outcomes, and overall satisfaction. By adjusting the number of nurses or physicians on duty while keeping other factors constant, such as patient volume or resources, they can determine the staffing levels that maximize efficiency without compromising quality of care.

    This analysis can help hospitals identify staffing strategies that ensure patients receive timely and effective treatment while also managing operational costs efficiently.

    Sensitivity analysis in the service industry can be applied by systematically varying one factor at a time while keeping others constant to understand its impact on key performance indicators such as customer satisfaction, revenue, and operational efficiency.

    Try this and don’t forget to share your experience with us.

  • C’River Receives Table Tennis Equipment Donated by NTTF Zonal Representative

    Cross River has received table tennis equipment worth millions of naira donated to the state Table Tennis Association by the south south zonal representative on the board of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, Mr Ama-ebi Ebikpolade.

    The Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Agnes Atsu who received the items at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar on Monday 25 March 2024, expressed gratitude to the NTTF board member for the kind gesture.

    According to Hon. Atsu, “This move shows that you are a good man. You are somebody that likes to give back to the society what the society has given to you. It shows that you recognize some sacrifices we might have made from Cross River State to put you where you are. I want to thank you that you didn’t abandon us, and I know you will not abandon us going forward. That is also to say that at all times, Cross River will also stand by you.”

    Continuing, the Commissioner said, “I speak, representing my governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who is sports loving. Everything about sports is number one for him. This you have done, will be adequately reported to him. I want to thank you so very much for developing our children, like the one you just showed me. I was also told you have more of them.

    “Each time I have opportunity to speak, I tell people that sports is not a government alone, stand-alone issue. If sports has made you, put back into sports industry what you got; and that’s exactly what you are doing. Help us more and more, and if we have opportunity to help back we will do. We are looking for sponsors. We are looking for investors to help us, even with facilities upgrade and all of that.”

    Speaking in the same vein, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sports Development, Mr Ekanem Ekpenyong, commended Mr Ebikpolade for reciprocating the support Cross River gave to him during the NTTF election.

    “I want to thank you very much the South South rep that you have not disappointed me because if this didn’t happen I would have felt very bad. You contested the election against my brother, but the spot was already zoned to Bayelsa, so we had no option,” he said.

    The SA also appealed to the NTTF board member to come and sponsor a table tennis tournament in Cross River, stating that it would be an avenue for talent showcasing and discovery.

    “I know you have actually done a lot for most of our athletes; sponsoring them in education. Cross River State is like a home to you,” he added.

    Earlier, the NTTF south south zonal representative informed that the visit to Cross River was part of his unity tour across the six states in the zone. He said that the state has a history deeply rooted in table tennis and had won laurels in the sport.

    “The reason of my coming here is to show love, unity and support. In table tennis, Cross River is a pivotal state. It’s a state with talents and they have proven that over the years. The state has produced champions, Olympians. When you mentioned Cross River in the presence of table tennis lovers, what comes to our minds are the champions that emerged from the state,” he said.

    On his part, Chairman of Cross River State Table Tennis Association, Ntufam Edim Inok, said the equipment donation was a dream come true, describing it as “a very big one”.

    “These items are worth millions. I am happy. I’m encouraged. It will motivate our players. Other people will see what he has done and will want to follow suit. I want to thank the young man that has done this. It is a very good thing he has done for the state,” he said.

    Items donated by the NTTF board member include two ITTF approved stiga table tennis tables that cost about N8million; the sum of N500,000 to assist in the training of table tennis youngsters, and the repair of damaged floor of the table tennis hall at the U.J. Esuene stadium.