The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Eteng Facilitates Upgrade of Three Secondary Schools to Technical Colleges in Cross River Central

    Eteng Facilitates Upgrade of Three Secondary Schools to Technical Colleges in Cross River Central

     

    The Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Eteng Jonah Williams, has facilitated the upgrading of St. Brenda Secondary School, Iyamoyong in Obubra Local Government Area, Boki Comprehensive Secondary School (Boki Boys), in Okundi, Boki Local Government Area and Secondary School Mkpani in Yakurr Local Government Area into Government Technical Colleges through the intervention of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

    The intervention will provide for the construction and installation of modern technical training facilities in the institutions, with the objective of strengthening vocational and technical education within Cross River Central Senatorial District.

    The upgraded technical colleges are expected to offer specialized and practical training designed to equip students with relevant industry skills in areas such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), healthcare services, automotive technology, culinary arts, and other technical and vocational disciplines.

    The initiative is aimed at improving employability among young people, encouraging self-reliance, and advancing human capital development across the district.

    As part of the implementation process, the three project sites have officially been handed over to the contractors for the commencement of construction works and installation of technical equipment, marking the commencement of the projects.

    Speaking at one of the construction site during an inspection, Senator Eteng Williams emphasized that Job creation, access to opportunity and human capacity development remains at the very core of his priorities for his constituents.

  • 2026 Children’s Day: Fr Peter Abue Charges Government, Parents On Education And Welfare of Children

    2026 Children’s Day: Fr Peter Abue Charges Government, Parents On Education And Welfare of Children

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The founder of CORAfrica Nigeria Rev Fr (Dr) Peter Obele Abue has called on Government, Parents and the general public to be more committed to the ideals of fostering the education and social welfare of children in Nigeria.

    Fr. Abue made this call to commemorate the 2026 Children’s Day celebration. He further extended warm wishes to children and reaffirmed his organisation’s dedication to helping those under his care achieve their aspirations and full potential.

    He noted that a lot needs to be done to ensure that the underprivileged children in rural Africa who by virtue of where they come from take their proper place to assess education, healthcare services and realise their full potentials.

    Fr. Abue used the opportunity to call on government at all levels, parents, corporate organisations, development partners, and philanthropists to support CORAfrica’s vision of expanding access to quality education and improving the welfare of children in rural communities.

    According to him, collective support and investment in children will help create a brighter future for society and ensure that no child is left behind.

    CORAfrica Nigeria is dedicated to child welfare and education, and is celebrating this 2026 Children’s Day with a renewed commitment to supporting children’s dreams, protecting their rights, and promoting access to quality education.

    Through the John Bosco Academy in Adagom, Ogoja, CORAfrica currently provides free education to more than 600 children, helping to bridge the gap between rural and urban education while preparing students to compete globally. The organisation also operates the John Stilley Schools in Victoria, where over 500 children receive quality education.

    The idea of setting aside a special day for children gained global recognition in 1954 when the United Nations General Assembly and UNICEF encouraged nations around the world to observe Universal Children’s Day as a way of promoting children’s rights and welfare.

    Nigeria officially adopted May 27 as Children’s Day in 1964, creating a platform to highlight challenges affecting children, including discrimination, exploitation, abuse, and limited access to quality education.

    In furtherance of child protection, Nigeria ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989 and domesticated it through the Child Rights Act of 2003 by former President Olusogun Obasanjo. The Act extends the fundamental human rights provisions contained in Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to children and outlines the responsibilities of government, families, and relevant authorities in safeguarding children’s welfare.

    On this 2026 Children’s Day celebration, CORAfrica Nigeria calls on parents, caregivers, government, and indeed people from all walks of life to become more committed to supporting children, irrespective of their backgrounds, in order to help them realise their full potential. The organisation stressed that there can be no safe and prosperous tomorrow without properly nurturing, protecting, and positioning children today.

    Happy Children’s Day to all Children in Nigeria.

  • Jarigbe Felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Kabir, Prays for Unity, Peace, Doles Out N5.5 Million

    Jarigbe Felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Kabir, Prays for Unity, Peace, Doles Out N5.5 Million

    Senator representing the Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has felicitated with Muslim faithful on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-ul-Kabir celebration, calling on them to uphold the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, love, tolerance, and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah.

    In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the festival, the lawmaker described Eid-ul-Kabir as a sacred celebration that symbolizes faith, devotion, selflessness, and unwavering trust in God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice in obedience to Allah’s command.

    Senator Jarigbe urged Muslims to reflect on the noble lessons of the season and apply them in their daily lives to promote peace, unity, mutual understanding, and sustainable development across Cross River North Senatorial District, Cross River State, and the country at large.

    He stressed the need for religious harmony and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences, noting that national development can only flourish in an atmosphere of unity, tolerance, and collective responsibility.

    The senator also encouraged citizens to continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria, while extending love and support to the less privileged during the festive period.
    As part of his support for the Eid-ul-Kabir celebration, Senator Jarigbe donated N5.5 million to Muslim communities across Cross River North Senatorial District to enable them celebrate the festival with joy and dignity.

    He further wished Muslims in Nigeria and across the world a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-ul-Kabir celebration.

    “Eid Mubarak,” the statement concludes.

  • Customs, NUJ Partner to Sensitise Border Communities Against Smuggling in Katsina

    Customs, NUJ Partner to Sensitise Border Communities Against Smuggling in Katsina

     

    The newly elected executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, on Thursday, 21 May 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Katsina Area Command, where both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to sensitising border communities on the dangers and consequences of smuggling activities.

    Speaking during the visit, the Customs Area Controller of the Katsina Area Command (CAC), Comptroller Mohd Saidu, congratulated the newly elected NUJ leadership and described the media as a critical partner in promoting national security, public enlightenment, and economic development.

    He emphasised that combating smuggling requires collective efforts from security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, and the media to educate the public, especially residents of border communities, on the negative effects of illegal trade.

    According to him, smuggling poses serious threats to the nation’s economy by undermining government policies, discouraging legitimate trade, and endangering the citizens’ well-being
    He assured the NUJ of the Command’s readiness to sustain collaboration with the media, stating: “Curbing smuggling activities requires collective efforts. Therefore, the Katsina Area Command is ready to partner with the NUJ in sensitising the public on the dangers of smuggling.”

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, Comrade Aminu Dandagoro, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the union and the NCS.

    He noted that the newly elected executives are committed to promoting responsible journalism and supporting initiatives that foster peace, security, and national development.

    Also speaking during the visit, the Patron of the NUJ, Comptroller Usman Bello (Rtd), commended the NCS for its sustained efforts in combating smuggling and safeguarding the nation’s borders.

    He urged journalists to use their platforms to promote public awareness campaigns, particularly among border communities, to discourage involvement in illegal trade and other economic crimes.

    Both organisations also discussed strategies for strengthening collaboration in the areas of public sensitisation, national security awareness, and effective information sharing for the overall development of Katsina State.

  • C’River Internal Revenue Service Launches Insurance Cover For Ad-Hoc Staff

    C’River Internal Revenue Service Launches Insurance Cover For Ad-Hoc Staff

    Culled From Negroid Heaven 

    The Cross River Internal Revenue Service has introduced a group life and health insurance scheme for its ad hoc staff as part of efforts to strengthen workers’ welfare and improve productivity within the agency.

    Chairman of the Service, Edwin Okon, disclosed this on Friday in Calabar during the presentation of a ₦1.4 million group life insurance benefit to the widow of a deceased ad hoc staff member, Mr. Charles Ugbe.

    Okon described the initiative as the first of its kind in the agency, explaining that the decision was taken in recognition of the contributions and commitment of ad hoc staff to the revenue drive of the state.

    According to him, the insurance scheme was designed to provide financial assistance and medical support for workers during emergencies while also reducing the burden on families of deceased employees.

    He stated that the Service had also introduced health insurance packages and mid-month transport bonuses to cushion the effects of the current economic realities on staff members.

    The CRIRS chairman noted that the improved welfare measures had significantly boosted workers’ morale and productivity, contributing to the increase in the state’s internally generated revenue from ₦22 billion to ₦57 billion.

    Okon further said the insurance initiative would encourage accountability and discourage corrupt practices by providing workers with a stronger sense of financial security.

    “I urge workers to invest in insurance and savings schemes that can secure their children’s education and future needs,” he said.

    He commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for supporting reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening the operations of the revenue service.

    The chairman also expressed hope that the welfare initiatives would be institutionalised to ensure continuity beyond the present administration.

    Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mr. Orok Okon, represented by Mrs. Lucy Enakirerhi, Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, praised the extension of welfare packages to ad hoc workers, describing it as a step that would improve workers’ commitment and sense of belonging.

    Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Dr. Bong Duke, represented by Mr. Kingsley Eyibio, Permanent Secretary in the commission, described the initiative as timely and beneficial to workers.

    He encouraged civil servants to adopt long-term insurance and investment plans to secure financial stability for their families.

    Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Monica Ugbe, widow of the deceased staff member, thanked the CRIRS management for the support and pledged to use the funds judiciously for the welfare of her family.

  • Three Aspirants From Bekwarra LGA, Ochugudu Ipuele, Cecilia Adams, John Onyi, Withdraws From Senatorial Race In Support Of Jarigbe

    Three Aspirants From Bekwarra LGA, Ochugudu Ipuele, Cecilia Adams, John Onyi, Withdraws From Senatorial Race In Support Of Jarigbe

     

    Three Senatorial aspirants from Bekwarra LGA; Prof. Ochugudu Ipuele, Barr. Cecilia Adams, and Dr. John Onyi, have officially withdrawn from the Cross River North Senatorial APC Primary and declared their support for Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.

    With this development, Senator Jarigbe emerges as the consensus aspirant of the APC for the Cross River North Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

     

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Laboratory Equipment For Government Secondary School, Ukende, Ogoja LGA

    Jarigbe Facilitates Laboratory Equipment For Government Secondary School, Ukende, Ogoja LGA

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom , has facilitated the provision of laboratory equipment to Government Secondary School, Ukende, in Ogoja Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen science education in public schools.

    Represented by his Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul , the Senator highlighted the growing importance of science and technology in an increasingly digital world. He noted that meaningful participation in today’s global landscape requires a solid foundation in scientific knowledge, which informed his decision to support the science students of secondary schools across the district.

    He further assured that the intervention is part of a broader initiative aimed at equipping public secondary schools with modern and functional laboratory facilities. According to him, this effort will be sustained until schools within the senatorial district are adequately provided with essential tools needed for effective science teaching and learning.

    Senator Jarigbe also urged teachers to make optimal use of the equipment, emphasizing the need for practical-based learning that will enhance students’ understanding and performance in science subjects. He encouraged students to take full advantage of the opportunity to build skills that will prepare them for future careers in science and technology.

    In response, the school management expressed deep appreciation for the Senator’s support, describing the intervention as timely and impactful. They offered prayers for his continued strength and capacity to extend such developmental initiatives to other schools and communities in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • UNICROSS Students’ Protest and Fatal Motor Accident, No One Was Shot Says C’River Deputy Governor 

    UNICROSS Students’ Protest and Fatal Motor Accident, No One Was Shot Says C’River Deputy Governor 

     

    Earlier today, students of the University of Cross River State took to the streets to protest the tragic death of three of their colleagues in a motor accident, where a truck struck a bus conveying students returning from a friendly female football match in Uyo on Thursday, April 30, 2026, along the Itu-Odukpani Road. The Governor had earlier extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the students, and the entire university community over this painful and heartbreaking loss.

    The Office of the Deputy Governor of Cross River State wishes to correct the public record in the interest of truth, peace, and responsible dialogue.

    The protesters first went to the General Hospital, then proceeded to Millennium Park, and later moved to the Governor’s Office. At Millennium Park, they blocked vehicular traffic for an extended period until they were persuaded to reopen the road. At a point during the protest, the situation became rowdy after the leadership structure among the protesters broke down, and some individuals began vandalizing government property. In response, the police used tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore order. No one was shot. This fact must be clearly stated to ensure that misinformation does not distort the facts or unnecessarily inflame public sentiment.

    While the concerns raised about healthcare facilities in the state and the completion of the Calabar-Itu Road are duly noted, the government makes it clear that the temporary breakdown of law and order should not be unfairly attributed to the State Government. The administration remains committed to addressing legitimate grievances through peaceful engagement.

    Acting swiftly and in the spirit of compassion and dialogue, the Deputy Governor immediately invited ten leaders of the student body to his office, where he personally assured them of the government’s concern and support. This included the use of his personal vehicles and security personnel to assist in evacuating injured accident victims to various hospitals for urgent medical attention.

    The Deputy Governor also addressed concerns raised about the General Hospital and the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). He explained that some of the accident victims were redirected from the General Hospital to UCTH not because the General Hospital was ill-equipped, but because it was overwhelmed beyond its capacity at the time. He has further directed the Commissioner for Health to remain fully engaged on the matter to ensure that all victims receive the best possible care, as the government has made full provision for their medical bills. He has also requested a full report on the state of the General Hospital so that any identified gaps can be promptly addressed.

    His Excellency urges the public, especially commentators, to avoid misinformation and exaggerated narratives capable of worsening an already painful situation. The government remains open to constructive engagement and continues to work in the interest of all citizens, including students and young people, whose welfare remains a priority.

    We once again commiserate with the families of the deceased and the university community, and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed students. May the injured recover swiftly and fully.

    Fred Abua, Esq.
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor
    04/05/2026

  • Jarigbe Inspects Burnt Recreation Centre in Ogoja, Promises New Facility

    Jarigbe Inspects Burnt Recreation Centre in Ogoja, Promises New Facility

    Jarigbe Inspects Burnt Recreation Centre in Ogoja, Promises New Facility

    Senator Jarigbe Agom today inspected the recently burnt recreation centre in Ogoja, hinting at plans to construct a new facility following the extensive damage to the structure.

    Addressing newsmen at the site, Senator Jarigbe said he had not initially realized the full scale of the destruction, describing it as severe.

    He added that instead of carrying out repairs, a completely new structure would be built and properly equipped for the benefit of the people.

    “Fortunately, provision has been made for a new recreation centre in the 2025 budget. We will demolish what is left of this structure and erect a new recreation centre for our people,” he stated.

    The lawmaker was accompanied by Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Hon. Martins Orim, Hon. Agnes Atsu, Hon. Beatrice Igwe, Hon. Regina Anyogo, Mr. Egbede Jarigbe, among others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Inspects Ongoing Ukpagada Bridge Construction, Commends Tinubu, Otu for Support

    Jarigbe Inspects Ongoing Ukpagada Bridge Construction, Commends Tinubu, Otu for Support

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, earlier today inspected the ongoing Ukpagada Bridge construction project facilitated through his efforts, reaffirming his commitment to infrastructural development across the district.

    The bridge, currently under construction, is situated along the critical Abakpa–Ibil–Yahe corridor, which links Cross River State to Ebonyi State. Historically, the route has posed significant challenges to commuters, as a previous bridge at the site was destroyed during the Nigerian Civil War. Upon completion, the new structure is expected to provide a durable and safe crossing point for residents, motorists, and traders, especially during the rainy season when access has often been severely limited.

    Speaking at the project site, Senator Jarigbe commended the host community for providing a peaceful and enabling environment that has allowed engineers and construction workers to carry out their duties without hindrance. He emphasized that community cooperation remains a vital ingredient in the successful delivery of public infrastructure.

    The lawmaker also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the project is being funded by the Federal Government and would not have progressed without such backing. He further expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Cross River State, H. E Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his continued support and the numerous developmental projects being executed across the senatorial district.

    Senator Jarigbe used the opportunity to call on constituents to remain united and continue supporting his administration, as well as that of the governor and the President, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach. He stressed that sustained collaboration between leaders and the people is essential for attracting more development to the region.

    In their separate remarks, community leaders, including former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, alongside traditional rulers and residents, expressed deep gratitude to the Senator for facilitating the project. They described the bridge as a long-awaited intervention that would significantly boost economic activities and improve the quality of life in the area.

    As a show of appreciation, the community presented the Senator with gifts, including a live ram and tubers of yam, symbolizing their gratitude and cultural respect. They also pledged their continued support for Senator Jarigbe, Governor Otu, and President Tinubu, citing the positive impact of their leadership and projects within the community.

    The inspection visit was attended by several dignitaries, including the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Agnes Atsu; Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Beatrice Igwe; Hon. Paddy Egbede; Hon. Regina Anyogo; Chief Thomas Odu; Mr. Sunday Igbaji; Mr. Egar Mgbantul; Mr. Joe Ulom, JP; and other stakeholders.

    The Ukpagada Bridge project stands as a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to improve connectivity and stimulate socio-economic development in Cross River North, reinforcing the importance of strategic infrastructure in regional growth.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA