The Lumine News

Author: News

  • You Are Not Meant To Remain A Decorator Of Other People For Life; Others Will Also Decorate You And It Is Your God That Says So Not Man BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    EPHPHATHA!

    By giving full attention to a deaf man and finally commanding that his ears “be open”, Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah on him through the pronouncement of Ephphatha (which means ‘Open up’). “He took him away by himself, away from the crowd… looked up to heaven and with a groan said: Ephphatha! (Mk 7:33). Here, the old order has passed away; a person long abandoned, who was depressed and dispirited has come back to life. To this very person, the Prophet Isaiah had foretold that “the eyes of the blind will be opened, the ears of the deaf will be unsealed, the lame will leap like a deer and the tongue of the dumb sing for joy” (Is.35: 4-7).

    Today, Ephphatha will be a heavenly pronouncement on you. The period of lack in your life is ended and God will finally bring you into a season of abundance. To you who has been waiting for so long… your era of lack has come to an end. Whether it is that period you have been waiting and no one seem bothered about you, or the period when sickness, joblessness, barrenness and even sin seem to have enveloped and blinded you to the extent that you failed to see God’s light clearly enough to plot a new path for yourself in life, Jesus says “Ephphata” to you! Open up that path that someone is blocking for you in your office, your life’s calling, your family, village or organization; wherever you find yourself.

    You are not meant to remain a decorator of other people for life; others will also decorate you and it is your God that says so not man. You are that very special case in God’s hands; the one Jesus would “take off by himself away from the crowd… look up to heaven and with a groan say: Ephphatha!. All you need is trust in the saving power of God, go on your knees and put your doubts aside . Remember, it is not by power or might, nor is it by your wisdom or influence. God is in total control of your life, so “Be strong. Do not be afraid…your God is coming to save you” (Is. 35: 4).

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Peter Obele Abue PhD, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Cross River Gov’t Initiates Technical Tender To Privatize Four State-owned Industrial Assets

     

    In a move to stimulate economic rejuvenation and employment opportunities, the government of Cross River State has opened bidding for the privatization of four state-owned industrial assets that have been moribund for years now.

    These assets include the Boki and Nsadop Oil Palm Estates, Fish Hatchery in Ugboro, Bekwarra Local Government Area, Durafoam Industries in Ikom Local Government Area, and Ibonda Fish Hatchery in Odukpani Local Government Area.

    All the aforementioned assets are solely owned by the State Government without any liabilities, the State Privatisation Council has disclosed.

    The technical bidding session was conducted at the Cross River Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) office, where investors expressed satisfaction with the bidding procedures.

    During the event, Chief Bassey Okon, Chairman of the Cross River State Privatization Council, underscored the council’s dedication to meticulous evaluation of bids received.

    “We will carefully assess your technical expertise and capability to efficiently manage the companies to achieve the objectives of this privatization initiative,” he stated.

    The Privatization Council Chairman informed that after the bid evaluation, successful bidders will be invited to inspect the companies they are interested in and subsequently submit their financial proposals.

    Okon reassured participants that the process is designed to be transparent and adhere to due process, essential for upholding trust in the privatization exercise.

    Highlighting the government’s broader vision, Okon emphasized that the state is committed to creating a conducive environment for investors.

    “The privatization aims to enhance operational efficiency, create employment opportunities, and boost the state’s revenue base.

    “We are confident that the communities hosting these assets will benefit significantly in terms of employment and infrastructure development once the privatization is completed,” he remarked.

    He commended the state governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, for approving the privatization the moribund industries and noted that previous administrations had attempted but failed to privatize these assets.

    Mr. Sunday Ekeke, Chief Executive Officer of Sunfil Goldenroll Nigeria Ltd, a bidding company, commended the council for its transparency throughout the technical bidding process. He expressed confidence in the council’s commitment to transparency throughout the bidding process.

    As the open competitive bidding process progresses, the Cross River State Government remains committed to ensuring that the privatization of these dormant assets leads to sustainable economic growth and enhances the quality of life for its residents.

    Nsa Gill
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
    08/09/2024

  • C’River Deputy Governor Odey Condoles With Godwin Iyala Over Mother’s Death

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, on Friday, at Forté David in Ushara-Gakem, Bekwerra Local Government Area, offered his condolences to Mr. Godwin Iyala, Director General of the State Health Insurance Scheme, on the loss of his beloved mother, Late Mother Theresa Okpele-Iyala.

    The late Mother Okpele-Iyala, known for her strong business acumen, generosity, and nurturing spirit, passed away on July 12th, 2024, at the age of 84.

    In a condolence message to the Director General of State Health Insurance Scheme, Sir Godwin Iyala, KSJi, JP, the Deputy Governor said: “Your mother was a woman of exceptional character, a devout Catholic whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a chef and home builder, she not only nourished bodies but also nurtured hearts, creating a home filled with love, warmth, and peace. Her simplicity and contentment were testaments to a life well-lived, grounded in values that many aspired to but few truly embodied.

    “Madam Okpele-Iyala’s legacy as a peace-loving woman and a firm yet loving disciplinarian will continue to live on in the lives of those who she touched”

    Odey further stated that, “though her time on this earth was shorter than wished, we must take comfort in knowing that the value of life is not measured by its length but by the profound impact one makes during their time”

    He encouraged the Iyala family to find comfort in the knowledge that their mother lived a fulfilling life, dedicated to spreading love, compassion, and kindness to her family and community.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar

  • Bekwerra New Yam Festival: We’ll continue To Prioritize The Welfare Of Traditional Rulers – Gov. Otu

     

    Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has pledged government support to traditional rulers across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas, with a focus on improving the socioeconomic well-being of Cross Riverians.

    The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, gave this assurance during a visit to the Paramount Rulers of the Northern Senatorial District at the Bekwarra Local Government Council Headquarters on Saturday.

    He emphasized the vital role that traditional institutions play in maintaining peace and order and assured that the government remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of chiefs in line with the administration’s “People First” mantra.

    Governor Otu also outlined the government’s interventions in key areas such as road rehabilitation, healthcare, security, education, and agriculture across the five LGAs in the North. He assured the completion of ongoing projects and the initiation of new ones. He further encouraged the people of Bekwarra to embrace the Governor’s agricultural policies, aimed at boosting food production and security.

    Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers from Northern Cross River, HRM Linus Ogbeche Odey, Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Bekwerra Traditional Rulers Council praised Governor Otu and Deputy Governor Odey for their leadership and foresight in implementing people-centered policies, particularly the ongoing road projects and the provision of farm inputs to farmers not just in the senatorial district but across the state.

    He assured the deputy governor that traditional rulers would continue to support government policies and program which he described as “grassroots and people-oriented”

    In his vote of thanks, the Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Obanliku Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Uchua Amos Uyimulam appealed to the Governor to restore the Northern Festival (Northfest), which serves as a rallying point for the five LGAs, and also to ensure the timely completion of the ongoing road project projects and initiation of new ones for the overall interest of the Northern Senatorial District and the state at large.

    The Deputy Governor was accompanied on the visit by the member representing Boki I in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong, former House of Representatives member for the Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbor, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Michael Odere; and the Chapter Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the five LGAs in the North, among others.

  • Bekwarra Traditional Rulers Council Confers Chieftaincy Tittles On KJay Jedy-Agba, Godwin Nyiam

     

    The duo of reverred Prince KJay Jedy-Agba popularly refered as “Distinguished” by his associates, and Comrade Godwin Nyiam, were yesterday 7th September 2024, honored and conferred with Chieftaincy titles, USHI’ INUNG 1 of Bekwarra, and USHI KPERE 1 by the Bekwarra Traditional Rulers Council.

    Their nomination, selection and conferment of the titles on them was largely due to their commitment to the ideals of the society at large.

    Speaking during the conferment of the Chieftaincy titles, the Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Bekwarra Traditional Rulers Council, HRM, Ushie Ebeshe’ka Akpa, noted that the council refused to politicize the selection process and instead, insisted on the best and those deserving of the titles be given.

    He averred that “We have painstakingly selected only the two of you for these titles. This recognition is a call for you to come to assist us develop Bekwarra nation. From today, you are now part of us. We will sit together, discuss as a family and find lasting solutions to the challenges that face us.

    “We are not giving you these titles to put in your boxes or your libraries. You must be up and doing and ensure that Bekwarra nation benefit from your wealth of experience and contacts that necessitated your selection.

    “Prince K J Jedy-Agba, I know you are fully aware of your responsibility as a member of the traditional ruler’s council, having been a revered prince and son of the immediate past Paramount Ruler of Obudu.

    Responding, Prince K J Jedy-Agba, USHI’ INUNG 1 of Bekwarra, thanked the council for having honored him with such a great tittle, and he remarked “when the committee visited me in Abuja and informed me that the paramount ruler, has a message for me, I couldn’t have opted out because, being the son of the late Obudu Paramount Ruler, I cannot refuse anything demanded of me by the paramount ruler, provided that it is within my powers to do.

    “Today, I have come to acknowledge my second father who is the paramount ruler of Bekwarra. I want to assure you all that I will do my best to ensure that I serve in the capacity for which you have honored me with this tittle. And, I will continue to do good as the title of my recognition entails”.

    The conferment of the titles was part of the activities to mark the 2024 Bekwarra New Yam festival known as Ipem Ihihe 2024

    Dignitaries at the occasion were, the Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Peter Odey, Hon. Legor Idagbo Esq, former member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Deputy Speaker, Cross River State House of Assembly and member representing Obudu State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jr, Member representing Boki ii State Constituency, Hon.Hillary Bisong, Mr Mike Odere, Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Rev Father Nicodemus Aji, Mr Esidene Akpo, Mr Tony Ulayi, Hon Rose Abua, among many other personalities.

  • Dr John Adinya Odey Felicitates With The People Of Bekwarra On The Occasion Of The 2024 New Yam Festival

     

    Dear Elders, brothers and sisters,

    As we celebrate the ipem ihihe, I wish you all a joyous and bountiful harvest season. May this occasion bring us closer and remind us of the rich cultural heritage that binds us as one great people.

    As we mark this significant event, let us be reminded of the ethos that weaves the fabric of our society, respect for elders, hard work, resilience and gratitude for which we are known for. These values are essential for our collective progress and prosperity as the great people of Bekwarra.

    As an aspirant to the Office of Chairman, Bekwarra LGA, I am committed to serving our LGA and working tirelessly to ensure we have a Bekwarra of our dreams. I believe that by working together, we can build a better and brighter future for ourselves and children.

    Once again, I wish you all a happy New Yam Festival. Cheers

    Sincerely,

    Dr. John Adinya Odey
    Bekwarra LGA Chairmanship aspirant.

  • C’River Concludes Plans For Integrated Measles Campaign

     

    By: Nakanda Iyadim

    The Cross River State Primary Health Department Agency in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and partners wishes to announce the commencement of an integrated measles vaccination campaign across the 18 Local Government Areas.

    In a release signed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr Erasmus Ekpang indicates that the exercise which is free of charge will commence on Saturday, September 21, 2024 and end on Sunday ,September 29, 2024 in all health facilities and designated public facilities.

    Parents and caregivers are advised to avail themselves of this opportunity by getting their children and wards from day old to 59 months vaccinated against measles and other killer diseases during the immunization exercise in all designated vaccination centers across the State.

    Ekpang further added that officials from the Primary Health Care Development Agency with reflective crested vest shall move from house to house to administer the measles vaccines on the children and should be welcome by residents to ensure successful implementation of the programme.

  • Chief John Ugbe Foundation To Hold Grand Finale Football Competition Today

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Chief John Ugbe Foundation is set for the grand finale of her second edition of the football tournament in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The foundation is in honor the late Patriarch and father of Hon Emmanuel Ugbe, former Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council and Mr Patrick Ugbe, CEO & MD, Hit 95 FM, has impacted positively on the lives of the people.

    A release signed by the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee of the competition, Dr Abu Undiyaundeye indicates that Obudu Urban 1 and Ipong wards are to lock horns during the final match, which is billed for 3pm today September 7th 2024 at the Chief J A Agba memorial stadium, Obudu.

    Speaking to TheLumineNews, Hon Emmanuel Ugbe, noted that as parts of efforts to remember the good legacies of their father, they have decided to come together to impact the people with the view of making lives better.

    He stated that “we decided to initiate the football tournament because football unite people from different backgrounds. He keeps the youth busy and prevents them from indulging in so many illicit behaviors”.

  • Annual General Meeting: GOSCO Class of ’97 Felicitates G’95

    By Elijah Ugani 

    As members of the 1995 class of Government Secondary School Obudu, converged for the 2024 reunion and Annual General Meeting, members of the 1997, has felicitate with the G’95 class for the numerous achievements the class has recorded which promotes the name of the institution.

    In a release signed the 1997 worldwide coordinator, Mr Patrick Inezi, and made available to TheLumineNews, indicates that in line with the numerous achievements recorded by the G’95 class, they look forward to seeing an elaborate reunion where everybody will be present in roll according to classes.

    The release reads in full: “On behalf of the Executive Council and members of GOSCO class of 1997, worldwide, we heartily felicitate with GOSCO – 95 on their successful 2024 reunion and Annual General Meeting.

    “We are highly honored by your invitation and we hope that our representation was felt directly or indirectly.

    “Our most difficult task is to bring people together. We stand tall on your numerous achievements which GOSCO is known for. It is worthy to note that such an impactful event after 29 years, we look forward to more elaborate reunion where everybody will be present in roll according to classes.”

  • Hon Emma Akwagiobe Felicitates Obudu On The Occasion Of The 2024 New Yam Festival

    Dear Friends,

    As we celebrate the Bi pam bififeh, I wish you all a joyous and bountiful harvest season. May this occasion bring us closer and remind us of the rich cultural heritage that binds us as one great people.

    As we mark this significant event, I am reminded of the importance of hard work and gratitude we are known for. These values are essential for our collective progress and prosperity as people of Obudu.

    As an aspirant for the Office of Chairman, I am committed to serving our LGA and working tirelessly to ensure that our LGA succeeds. I believe that by working together, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and children.

    Once again, I wish you all a happy New Yam Festival. May it be a time of feasting and merriment.

    Wolololo, wolololo!

    Sincerely,

    Hon. Emma Akwagiobe