The Lumine News

Author: The Lumine News

  • Jarigbe Admonishes Gas Distribution License Operators To Prioritize Safety And Efficiency

    Jarigbe Admonishes Gas Distribution License Operators To Prioritize Safety And Efficiency

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, and Chairman Senate Committee on Gas, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has admonished licensed operators to prioritize safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability, stressing that their role is vital in driving Nigeria’s gas sector growth and positioning the country as a global energy leader.

    Sen Jarigbe Agom made the admonition during the Gas Distribution Licence Award.

    The lawmaker commended the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for issuing the first batch of Gas Distribution Licences, as stipulated in section 148 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.

    Sen Jarigbe averred that “Gas Distribution Licence Award marks a significant milestone in enhancing domestic gas infrastructure, creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and delivering cleaner energy solutions to Nigerian households and industries. This development aligns with Nigeria’s vision of a prosperous, sustainable, and energy-secure future”.

    As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Gas, the lawmaker reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting the growth of the gas industry and fostering a legislative framework that encourages investment, innovation, and sustainable development.

    Distinguished guests in attendance included the Honorable Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo; The Authority Chief Executive of NMDPRA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed; Executive Director of MDGIF, Mr. Adama Oluwole; Senate Committee Chairman on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Senator Ismaila Kawu; Hon. Ugochinyere Ikenga; Hon. (Prince) Odianosen Okogie; and other stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Demand for Transparency: NDAF Challenges NDDC Over Alleged Mismanagement of Cross River Palliatives

    Demand for Transparency: NDAF Challenges NDDC Over Alleged Mismanagement of Cross River Palliatives

    Press Release
    February 1, 2025

    Demand for Transparency: NDAF Challenges NDDC Over Alleged Mismanagement of Cross River Palliatives

    Compatriots in the struggle, Niger Deltans, and gentlemen of the press,
    Niger Delta Activists Forum (NDAF) is compelled to react to the press statement emanating from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) published on January 30, 2025.

    As you know, necessity is the springboard of reaction. On that note, NDAF finds it necessary to exercise our rights once again in light of recent developments regarding the surreptitious and selective distribution of palliatives (money and food items) meant for groups in Cross River State. These palliatives were distributed through the NDDC, supposedly in collaboration with Rt. Hon. Otuekong Orok Otu Duke, the Cross River representative on the NDDC Governing Board, and Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, the senator representing Cross River South and Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC.

    The current discrepancies surrounding the palliatives came to public attention as a result of the political hiccups between the governor of Cross River State and the senator’s camp. In response, Hon. Duke granted interviews and issued press statements accusing Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong of hijacking the N100 million earmarked by NDDC as palliatives for Cross River State.

    On January 29, 2025, in our penultimate press release, we called on Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong to break his silence and provide accountability. We also gave him a 72-hour ultimatum, which elapsed at 12 PM on January 31, 2025. While awaiting his response, the NDDC hurriedly released a statement on January 30, 2025, through its Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, tactically absolving Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong of the allegations.

    The NDAF read the press release with skepticism. The NDDC claimed that it distributed only palliatives, not money, and that the list of beneficiaries was duly approved by the NDDC Board. In light of this, we seek clarification on the following:

    1. Was the governor of Cross River State aware of the list of beneficiaries, or was he consulted before it was generated as one of the advisors of the NDDC board as established by law?

    2. Since the NDDC stated that the list was duly approved by its Board, did Rt. Hon. Otuekong Orok Otu Duke, the Board member representing Cross River State, participate in the approval process?

    3. Who submitted the list of beneficiaries for Cross River State—Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong or Rt. Hon. Otuekong Orok Otu Duke?

     

    While we await answers, we demand that the NDDC, which by law is not a secret organization, publish a *comprehensive* list of beneficiaries from Cross River State on its website. Additionally, the Commission must provide the public with detailed information on the sharing formula for the so-called palliatives.

    The NDDC has three (3) working days to respond. If it fails to do so, we will be left with no choice but to hold an international press conference calling for a forensic audit and investigation into the institutional corruption within the NDDC, which is being perpetuated by certain individuals.
    Yours in the struggle!

    Signed:
    Comr. Paul Ajie
    Chairman, Niger Delta Activists Forum (NDAF)

    Comr. Ogar Emmanuel Oko
    Secretary, Niger Delta Activists Forum (NDAF)

  • CRSHA Commits To Speedy Passage Of The Local Content Bill

    CRSHA Commits To Speedy Passage Of The Local Content Bill

     

    The Speaker of the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon Elvert Aymabem, has made commitment to the speedy passage of the local content bill for indigenous employment and opportunities for cross riverians.

    Speaker Aymabem, made this known in his office when the Special Adviser to the governor on Local Content, Ambassador Awatt Caleb, paid him a courtesy visit to present the draft policy framework for enactment into law the bill for domestication of the Nigerian Local Content Act in the State.

    Aymabem, commended the Special Adviser and members of the Local Content Monitoring, Regulatory and Enforcement Committee for a job well done. He used the opportunity to reiterate the 10th Assembly’s commitment to the speedy passage of the bill.

    Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on Local Content, Ambassador Awatt Caleb, expressed profound gratitude to the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly for Synergizing with the Office of the Special Adviser on Local Content for seamless domestication of the Nigerian Local Content Act 2010, in the State.

    Mr Awatt noted that “though Local Content is innovative in the state, the office is fully committed towards the promotion of active indigenous participation in support of the “people first mantra” of His Excellency Governor Bassey Otu led administration. He sued for cooperation with the Cross River State Assembly in domestication of the Act in the State.

    Other Lawmakers including the leader of the State Assembly, Rt. Honourable Francis Bassey Asuquo and others expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Governor Bassey Otu for the creation of Local Content Office and the appointment of substantive Special Adviser and Senior Special Assistant on Local Content, and reaffirmed their commitment to the passage of the bill.

  • First Disabled/Blind Graduate In C’River, Francis Ashikem To Be Laid To Rest In Obudu

    First Disabled/Blind Graduate In C’River, Francis Ashikem To Be Laid To Rest In Obudu

     

    The remains of the first disabled/blind graduate, late Mr Francis Ashikem PhD, is to be laid to rest today 1st February 2025, in his family compound, Kakum in Obudu Local Government Area.

    Mr. Francis Who holds a Doctor of Philosophy PhD in Business Administration from the prestigious University of Jos, had his Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education (B Ed) in 1986, which made him the first disabled/blind graduate in Cross River State.

    In a release made available to TheLumineNews, indicates that his remains will leave Sacred Heart Mortuary, Obudu at 9:00am today February 1st, 2025, for his compound in Kakum, Obudu Local Government Area and will be laid to rest at 10:00am.

    Biography of Dr. Ashikem Francis Awhobende
    BIRTH/PARENTING
    Dr. Ashikem Francis Awhobende is a distinguished Nigerian scholar, educator, and advocate for persons with disabilities. Born on 10th March 1949 into the Family of Pa, Ashikem Agim Ugbong of BEGIAGIM village, kakum community and Ma, Agnes Awhebi Ikwebe of Bebuabong community both from Obudu LGA of Cross River State, Nigeria. Dr. Awhobende is married and blessed with children.
    RELIGIOUS LIFE:
    Dr. Ashikem Francis Awhobende, was born and baptised into the Catholic faith.
    He was baptised by the white missionaries at the Immaculate Conception chaplaincy Enugu,
    And until his death he was a strong member, parishioner and supporter of St Theresa the little flower parish ipong.

    EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

    After he lost his sight to Missiles (an epidemic without vaccines as at the time) at age five(5) in 1955,
    Dr. Awhobende’s educational journey began at the Special Education Centre in Orji River, Enugu State, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1972. He proceeded to the College of Immaculate Conception (CIC), Enugu, completing his West African School Certificate (W.A.S.C.) in 1977.
    His tertiary education spanned several institutions:
    1. University of Jos, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education (B.Ed) in 1986. Making him the 1st Disable/Blind Graduate in Cross River State
    2. He also obtained a Master’s Degree in Special Education (M.Ed) from the same university in 1991.
    3. Dr. Awhobende crowned his academic pursuits with a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Business Administration from the same prestigious university
    4. He also received a Doctorial Fellowship investiture from the Institute of Human and Natural Resources in 2004.

    PROFESSIONAL CAREER:
    Dr. Awhobende began his teaching career as an Auxiliary Teacher from 1978 to 1982. He went on to serve as a Permanent Teacher, dedicating 35 years to the civil service from 1986 to 2013. He retired as PSMG 1 Grade level 16, marking the end of a fulfilling career in education.

    MEMBERSHIPS AND LEADERSHIP ROLE’S:
    Dr. Awhobende has been actively involved in various professional and advocacy groups, including.
    1. National Union of Teachers (NUT).
    2. National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET), where he once served as President.
    3. Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB), Cross River State Branch, serving as President and Secretary at different times.
    4. Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), where he held roles as both National President and State President, and previously as State Vice President.
    5. Pioneer Member of the Great Elephant society
    7. Member National Union of pensioners
    8. Institute of Human and Natural Resources (Fellow)
    9. Member Atten Ikeg Age grade

    CONTRIBUTIONS AND LEGACY:
    Through his work, Dr. Awhobende has significantly contributed to the education and empowerment of persons with disabilities. His leadership and advocacy within organizations such as JONAPWD and NAB underscore his dedication to creating a more inclusive society.

    Dr. Awhobende’s life and career are a testament to resilience, academic excellence, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.

    LAST MOMENT:
    Dr Awhobende Francis Ashikem, rested I’m the bosom of his creator on the 22nd December, 2024 after battling with a brief illness and was taken care of at the Federal teaching hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State , it is indeed painful of the loss and vacuum so far created but we a console by his legacy of humility, love, fairness, equity and justice that he left behind.

    HE IS SURVIVED BY:-
    Mrs, Ashikem Anthonia – Wife
    Mr, Awhobende Jeremiah Unimke – son
    Comr, Ashikem Ernest igiewhounimye – son
    Master, Awhobende Eugene Beshaundipeye – son
    Master, Awhobende Leo Ayiangshieye – son
    Lady, Ashikem Angela – Daughter
    Miss, Awhobende Agnes Awhebi – Daughter.

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Bridge Construction In Amukwong, Obudu LGA

    Jarigbe Facilitates Bridge Construction In Amukwong, Obudu LGA

    In a bid to enhance connectivity and boost economic growth, the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated the construction of a bridge in Amukwong, Alege-Ubang, Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The old bridge, which had become a source of concern for the communities, was not only a hazard to commuters but also a significant obstacle to the socio-economic development of the area. Its deplorable condition made life difficult for residents, commuters, and farmers, who struggled to access markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.

    The proposed bridge will serve as a vital link between Amukwong, Okikwor, Ngor-Kpu, and other agrarian communities in Obudu, as well as, improve residents’ access to essential amenities, boost economic activities, and enhance the overall quality of life.

    At the handover ceremony, Senator Jarigbe’s constituency officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, represented the Senator and tasked JRB Construction Company, the project’s contractors, to deliver a quality and durable job that meets the local communities’ expectations and demands.

    This project is part of Senator Jarigbe’s efforts to drive development and improve his constituents’ lives, building on his track record of facilitating infrastructural projects, including roads, bridges, classroom blocks, boreholes, sports and fitness facilities, amongst others.

    Residents and stakeholders had appealed to Senator Jarigbe to rebuild the collapsed bridge, and they appreciated his prompt response. They promised to support the contractor in ensuring quality service delivery.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Calls On Elected Officials To Concentrate On Delivering On Their Subsisting Mandates

    Jarigbe Calls On Elected Officials To Concentrate On Delivering On Their Subsisting Mandates

     

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has called on all elected officials to concentrate on their subsisting mandates and noted that it was preposterous to waste so much time on conversations about 2027 general elections.

    Sen Jarigbe was reacting to the cacophony of voices that surrounds the recent controversy in the political landscape of Cross River State, with many pundits analyzing and permutating the 2027 general elections.

    Sen Jarigbe who acknowledged the sufferings of the people in the rural communities across the state, posited that those of them with various mandates, have a greater task in their hands. He stated that the major task is delivering on their social contract with their people and ameliorating the hardship being experienced by the people who voted for them.

    The law maker who took to his verified Facebook page, @Sen Jarigbe Agom, noted that “I strongly think it’s preposterous to waste so much time on conversations about 2027, when our people are suffering so much in our rural communities across the State. We should concentrate on delivering on the subsisting mandates.

    “For those who have ambitions for 2027, we should know that they have inalienable rights to express themselves. For those of us who hold various mandates, we have a greater task in our hands. The major task is delivering on our social contract with our people and ameliorating the hardship being experienced by the people who voted for us.

    “Let’s get busy! No one knows the next minute. The time is now! I refer us again to Lamentations 3:36 & 37”.

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Installation of Six Solar Powered Boreholes in Obudu, Bekwarra & Yala LGAs

    Jarigbe Facilitates Installation of Six Solar Powered Boreholes in Obudu, Bekwarra & Yala LGAs

     

    In a bid to increase access to clean water and improve living standards, the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated the installation of six solar-powered boreholes in Obudu, Bekwarra, and Yala Local Government Areas of Cross River State.

    Located at Bebuagbong and Betukwel in Obudu, Ichogodo-Nyanya and Anyikang in Bekwarra, and Itega-Okpame and Nfuma Ntrigom in Yala LGA, these boreholes are expected to provide clean drinking water for thousands of residents, reducing the risk of water-borne diseases and improving overall health and wellbeing.

    According to Senator Jarigbe, this project is a direct response to his call for universal access to safe, clean, and drinkable water in Cross River North Senatorial District. “I urged constituents to report communities without access to drinkable water, and this project is a direct response,” he explained. “While not all listed communities will receive boreholes simultaneously, I remain committed to doing my best for our people”.

    Senator Jarigbe emphasized the need for a fast, durable, and quality project, particularly during the dry season. Upon completion, the projects will be handed over to the communities.

    This initiative aligns with the lawmaker’s efforts to enhance rural communities through human capital and infrastructural development projects in the Senatorial District.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Philanthropic Businessman, Mr. Egbudu Mathew Gives Back to the Community

    Philanthropic Businessman, Mr. Egbudu Mathew Gives Back to the Community

     

    In a world where kindness and generosity are often overlooked, Mr. Egbudu Mathew, a business leader and distinguished son of Yala, shines brightly as a beacon of hope. His selfless acts of philanthropy have touched the hearts of many, reminding us that humanity is fostered through benevolence, not broken.

    As the revered theologian Karl Rahner once said, “Man is a beneficiary of another man’s benevolence.” Mr. Egbudu’s remarkable display of corporate social responsibility is a testament to this profound truth. By subsidizing transportation costs for students commuting from Yala Local Government Area to Calabar, he has brought immense relief to numerous families, lifting the burdens of the harsh economy off their shoulders.

    What’s truly remarkable about Mr. Egbudu’s gesture is that he chose to forgo personal luxuries, denying himself and his family a well-deserved vacation, to put smiles on the faces of those in need. His selflessness is a shining example of the transformative power of kindness as the student-beneficiaries and their families continue to testify across various media channels.

    The impact of Mr. Egbudu’s generosity extends far beyond the individual beneficiaries. It inspires us to acknowledge and appreciate other notable Yala sons and daughters who have made significant contributions to our community, including: Distinguished Sen. Associate Prof. Stephen Adi Odey, Mr. Boni Okache, High Chief Higgins Peters, Hon. Barr. Godwin Offiono, and Hon. Brian Odey.

    As we lean on the Latin adage “Quid quid bonum, quid quid pulchrum, quid quid honestrum, dignum lauda est” (“Whatever is good, whatever is pleasant, whatever is honest, is worthy of praise”), we recognize that acknowledging and praising these individuals will only encourage them to continue their good work.

    To Mr. Egbudu Mathew, we offer our heartfelt gratitude and commendation for his remarkable gesture. May his selflessness inspire our young generation and everyone else to make a positive impact in our society, remembering that creating change is a collective effort that begins with our individual acts of kindness.

    Ogonyi Francis Ekaya
    (Program Facilitator)

  • Akpanke Provides Buses To Convey Students Of OBO Constituency To Calabar

    Akpanke Provides Buses To Convey Students Of OBO Constituency To Calabar

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke, has provided three buses for each of Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku Local Government Areas, to assist students return to Calabar to continue their studies.

    The gesture which becomes very necessary following the hike in transport fare and it’s attendant effect on students.

    Find the release below:

    PRESS RELEASE

    “Due to the challenging situation of the economy and current costs of transportation, we are pleased to announce to the general public that the Honourable member Representing Obudu Bekwarra Obanliku Federal Constituency Hon Peter Akpanke, in his usual way of showing commitments and support to the Education of our Youths, has made provision for transportation assistance of three Buses per LGA across the Federal Constituency for students returning to school in Calabar.

    Date:Tuesday 14/01/2025
    Time:6am

    Venue:

    Obanliku Students:
    Ashisong Filling station,Utuhu.
    Contact number for Obanliku: 08066533843

    Obudu Students:
    M-R-S FUEL STATION, OBUDU.
    Contact number for Obudu: 08162574450

    Bekwarra Students:
    UNBEATABLE FUEL STATION, ABOUCHICHE.
    Contact number for Bekwarra: 08144418021

    Boarding requirements will be your school ID card or your last semester school Fee receipt. Thanks.”

    Thank you, Hon. Peter Akpanke for this intervention.

  • UNICAL Announces NELFUND Loan, Assures Students Who Have Paid Complete Fees Of Refund

    UNICAL Announces NELFUND Loan, Assures Students Who Have Paid Complete Fees Of Refund

    UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR, CALABAR

    OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY VICE CHANCELLOR (ACADEMIC)

    ANNOUNCEMENT ON NELFUND LOAN 2023/2024 AND REGISTRATION FOR 2024/2025

    Students of the University of Calabar are charged to carefully note and be guided by the following:

    1. All beneficiaries of NELFUND Loan 2023/2024, who paid their fees for the session and are yet to graduate, will be given access to register for the 2024/2025 Session. In other words, the released 2023/2024 loan will be used to settle their 2024/2025 fees.
    As expected, when the 2024/2025 loan is released, the beneficiaries due to graduate within the session will be refunded after Bursary Clearance.

    2. The beneficiaries who paid their full fees in both 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 will be refunded the fee paid for 2023/2024 Session, pending the release of 2024/2025 Loan.

    3. Beneficiaries who graduated in the 2023/2024 Session will be refunded the fee paid to the University after Bursary Clearance.

    4. Beneficiaries and other students alike are urged to register for the 2024/2025 Loan, for which the verification of applicants is ongoing.

    5. Beneficiaries who made part payment in the 2023/2024 and have not settled the balance will have to pay it in 2024/2025.

    6. The dashboard of beneficiaries on the fee portal is to be configured to reflect NELFUND disbursement

    7. University of Calabar ICT Centre is a hub for NELFUND Registration.

    8. All students are advised to avail themselves of this unique opportunity and register for NELFUND now.

    Thank you.

    Prof. Tony Eyang
    DVC (Academic)
    13|01|2025