The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Cross River Terminates Sydney Construction’s Road Contract Over Poor Performance

    Cross River Terminates Sydney Construction’s Road Contract Over Poor Performance

    By Admin 

    The Cross River State Government has terminated the contract awarded to Sydney Construction Company for the construction of the Obanliku–Obudu–Abucheche–Mfom–Okpoma Road, citing poor performance and failure to meet contractual obligations.

    The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Edet, announced the decision following a comprehensive inspection of the project carried out by a team of engineers from the ministry.

    According to the commissioner, the assessment revealed that the contractor had made unsatisfactory progress and failed to execute the project in accordance with the approved specifications, quality standards, and the terms of the contract.

    Edet said the government’s decision to revoke the contract was in line with its commitment to ensuring quality infrastructure delivery and safeguarding public resources.

    “The contractor failed to meet the expected standards and contractual obligations. Consequently, the government has terminated the contract in the interest of the people of Cross River State,” he said.

    He added that the road project would be reassessed before a new contractor with the technical capacity and competence to deliver the project to specification is engaged.

    The commissioner reaffirmed the state’s commitment to providing durable infrastructure that meets acceptable engineering standards, stressing that the administration would not compromise on quality or accountability in the execution of public projects.

    The Obanliku–Obudu–Abucheche–Mfom–Okpoma Road is considered a strategic route expected to improve connectivity, facilitate economic activities, and enhance access to communities in the affected areas upon completion.

  • UNICAL VC Declares Open 2nd Annual CSN Cross River Chapter Conference, Calls for Chemistry-Driven Green Economy

    UNICAL VC Declares Open 2nd Annual CSN Cross River Chapter Conference, Calls for Chemistry-Driven Green Economy

    By Elijah Ugani

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has officially declared open the 2nd Annual Conference of the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN), Cross River State Chapter, with a call for greater investment in chemistry as a catalyst for sustainable development and Nigeria’s transition to a green economy.

    The three-day conference, which runs from July 5 to 7, 2026, was formally inaugurated on Monday, July 6, at the Senate Chamber of the University of Calabar. It brought together scholars, researchers, industry professionals, policymakers, students, and stakeholders from across the state to deliberate on the theme: “Catalyzing the Green Economy: Chemistry as a Driver for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”

    Declaring the conference open, Prof. Offiong described the theme as timely and highly relevant, noting that chemistry remains central to providing innovative solutions in renewable energy, agriculture, healthcare, environmental protection, waste management, and industrial development.

    He stressed that Nigeria’s quest for economic diversification and sustainable growth would depend largely on scientific innovation and technological advancement, adding that chemists have a critical role to play in developing environmentally friendly technologies capable of driving economic prosperity while protecting the environment.

    The Vice Chancellor reaffirmed the University of Calabar’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and strategic partnerships that support national development and address contemporary global challenges.

    Prof. Offiong commended the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, and the Local Organising Committee for successfully hosting the conference. He urged participants to actively engage in scientific discussions, share knowledge, and build collaborations that would advance chemical sciences and contribute to Nigeria’s sustainable development agenda.

    He also welcomed the Chairman of the occasion, Senator Prof. Stephen Adi Odey, Commissioner for Education, Cross River State; the President of the Chemical Society of Nigeria and keynote speaker, Prof. Rufus Sha’Ato; the plenary speaker, Prof. Buba Shanu; the Deputy Vice President (South-South Zone) of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Dr. Frank Oteiva; and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State, Prof. Francisca Bassey, alongside other distinguished guests and delegates.

    On his part, Prof Ayi, A. Ayi, The Alternate Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee welcomed participants to the 2026 Conference of the Cross River Chapter of the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN), hosted at the University of Calabar.

    He described the conference as a vital platform for scientists, educators, researchers, students, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to exchange ideas and promote chemistry-driven solutions to national and global challenges.
    Speaking on the theme, “Catalysing the Green Economy: Chemistry as a Driver for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” he highlighted the importance of chemistry in advancing sustainable development through innovations in the circular economy, environmental remediation, computational chemistry, and chemical education.

    He urged participants to actively engage in the scientific sessions, keynote and plenary lectures, and networking opportunities to foster collaborations that would extend beyond the conference.

    The LOC Alternate Chairman specially welcomed the Chairman of the Opening Ceremony, Senator Professor Stephen Adi Odey, the President of the Chemical Society of Nigeria and Keynote Speaker, Professor Rufus Sha’Ato, and the Plenary Speaker, Professor Ardo Buba Shanu, while appreciating both physical and virtual participants for their commitment to advancing scientific research.

    He expressed profound gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Professor Offiong E. Offiong, for his exceptional leadership and support in hosting the conference. He also acknowledged the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cross River State, Professor Francisca Bassey, the Chairman of CSN Cross River Chapter, Dr. Stephen Adalikwu, members of the Local Organizing Committee, sponsors, and partners for their invaluable contributions to the successful organization of the conference.

    He concluded by wishing participants fruitful deliberations, productive networking, and a memorable stay in Calabar.

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Cross River Chapter, ChM Stephen Adie Adalikwu PhD, described the conference as a historic milestone, marking the revival of the chapter’s annual scientific conference after nearly four decades.

    According to him, the maiden local conference was held in 1987, making the current edition a significant rebirth of scientific engagement within the chapter.

    Dr. Adalikwu expressed gratitude to God and appreciated the support of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, who also served as Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, as well as Prof. Ayi A. Ayi, the Alternate Chairman of the committee, for their dedication to the successful hosting of the conference.

    He also acknowledged the contributions of Senator Prof. Stephen Adi Odey, the President of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Prof. Rufus Sha’Ato, Prof. Buba Shanu, Dr. Frank Oteiva, Prof. Francisca Bassey, government officials, industry leaders, sponsors, and participants for their support and presence.

    Reflecting on the chapter’s achievements, Dr. Adalikwu disclosed that since the current leadership assumed office, the Cross River Chapter had experienced a remarkable transformation, including a membership growth of over 100 percent.

    He noted that the conference theme underscores the vital role of chemistry in renewable energy, environmental remediation, climate change mitigation, agriculture, healthcare, waste management, industrial development, and the production of environmentally friendly materials.

    He, however, identified inadequate research funding, weak collaboration between academia and industry, poor infrastructure, and the migration of skilled professionals as major obstacles to scientific and technological advancement in Nigeria.

    The chapter chairman called on governments, industries, and development partners to increase investment in scientific research, strengthen partnerships among universities, research institutions and industries, and promote innovation capable of driving sustainable national development.

    He further encouraged chemists to uphold professionalism, mentor younger scientists, and embrace innovation and entrepreneurship while reaffirming the chapter’s commitment to making its annual conference a permanent platform for scientific discourse, collaboration, and professional development.

    Dr. Adalikwu expressed optimism that the conference would produce practical solutions, innovative ideas, and lasting partnerships that would strengthen the chemical sciences and support Nigeria’s transition to a sustainable green economy.

  • C’River Governor Otu Flags Off 10km Ugboro-Ukpah-Afrike Road Project in Bekwarra LGA

    C’River Governor Otu Flags Off 10km Ugboro-Ukpah-Afrike Road Project in Bekwarra LGA

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure that promotes economic growth and improves the quality of life of citizens across the state.

    Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this known on Saturday during the official flag-off of the construction of the 10km Ugboro-Ukpah-Afrike Road in Bekwarra Local Government Area.

    Addressing residents and stakeholders at the ceremony, the Deputy Governor described the project as another milestone in the implementation of the Governor’s People First agenda, noting that it reflects the administration’s resolve to fulfil its promises to the people. He said the road would improve access to rural communities, facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce, stimulate commerce, enhance access to healthcare and education, and create new economic opportunities for residents.

    Rt. Hon. Odey commended the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere, and the Member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Hon. Omang Charles Omang, for their commitment and collaborative efforts in facilitating the commencement of the project.

    He called on community leaders, youths, and other stakeholders to cooperate fully with the contractor to ensure the smooth and timely execution of the project. He also charged the contractor to prioritise the use of local content by engaging qualified local labour and sourcing materials locally where practicable.

    In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama, described Governor Otu as a promise keeper whose administration continues to translate campaign promises into tangible development. He noted that the road project reflects the Governor’s commitment to addressing the long-standing infrastructural needs of the Bekwarra people.

    Hon. Odama expressed appreciation to the Governor for including Bekwarra in his development agenda, describing the project as a clear demonstration of the administration’s People First philosophy. He expressed confidence in the successful completion of the road and appealed to the state government to also consider the construction of the Abuochiche–Akwurinyi Road.

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Dr. Pius Ankpo Edet, assured residents that the project would be executed in line with approved engineering standards and completed within the lifespan of the present administration. He called on the benefiting communities to continue supporting the contractor throughout the construction period.

    On his part, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere, affirmed that the Governor Otu administration had put in place adequate funding arrangements to guarantee the uninterrupted execution of the project until completion.

    In their goodwill messages, the Member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Hon. Charles Omang; former Head of Service, Mr. Timothy Akwaji; the Paramount Ruler of Bekwarra Local Government Area; and the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, commended Governor Otu for the strategic intervention. They pledged the full cooperation of the people and assured the government of a peaceful environment that would enable the contractor to complete the project on schedule.

    The high point of the ceremony was the ribbon-cutting performed by the Deputy Governor, formally marking the commencement of the project.

  • Goddy Jedy-Agba, Roy Dimla Restore Access to Obudu Ranch Road After Twin Landslides

    Goddy Jedy-Agba, Roy Dimla Restore Access to Obudu Ranch Road After Twin Landslides

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Residents of Obanliku Local Government Area in Cross River State have commended the timely intervention of two prominent sons of the area, Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba, and Dr. Roy Dimla, whose swift action restored access to the Obudu Mountain Resort (formerly Obudu Cattle Ranch) and several surrounding communities after twin landslides rendered the only access road impassable.

    The landslides occurred on Sunday, June 21, 2026, following prolonged rainfall in the Becheve axis of Obanliku. The first landslide struck in the early hours of the day near the notorious “Devil’s Elbow” along the 11.5-kilometre winding road leading to the ranch. Although emergency crews initially cleared the debris, a second landslide occurred at the same location later that evening, burying the road once again and causing extensive damage that made it inaccessible to vehicles.

    The destruction cut off movement to and from the Obudu Mountain Resort and several neighbouring communities. Farmers were unable to transport their produce to markets, commercial vehicles could not reach the affected areas, and school children were forced to trek through muddy and hazardous terrain to access their schools.

    While the Cross River State Government was making arrangements to mobilize resources for a permanent solution to the damaged road, Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba and Dr. Roy Dimla stepped in to provide immediate relief. The duo mobilized personnel, heavy equipment, and construction materials to repair the affected sections of the road, restoring vehicular movement within a short period.

    Their intervention brought immediate relief to residents and road users, enabling farmers to resume the transportation of agricultural produce, commercial activities to pick up again, and school children to travel to school without the fear of being stranded.

    Community members have described the intervention as more than a road repair project, saying it demonstrated the power of responsible citizenship and community service. According to residents, the gesture showed that while government works towards long-term solutions, concerned individuals can play a meaningful role in responding to urgent public needs.

    Many believe the intervention by Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba and Dr. Dimla will inspire other well-meaning citizens to contribute to the development of their communities, particularly during emergencies.

    Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba, a technocrat from Utugwang and son of the late former Paramount Ruler of Obudu, Uti Jeddy-Agba, OON, has previously been associated with initiatives aimed at supporting the development of Cross River State. He is remembered for his contributions during the administration of former Governor Senator Liyel Imoke, when he reportedly assisted the state government in addressing salary obligations during a challenging financial period.

    The successful reopening of the Obudu Ranch road has restored a vital economic and tourism corridor, reaffirming the importance of collaboration between government and public-spirited citizens in addressing critical infrastructure challenges.

     

  • Koko Dan Writes Governor Otu to Halt Alleged Demolition of Alphonsus Ogar Eba’s Family Home

    Koko Dan Writes Governor Otu to Halt Alleged Demolition of Alphonsus Ogar Eba’s Family Home

    An open letter addressed to the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has appealed for the suspension of the alleged planned demolition of the family home of former government official, Alphonsus Ogar Eba, citing the family’s sacrifices during the governor’s political journey.

    The letter, signed by Koko Dan of LubX Oil Ltd., urged the governor to exercise restraint and compassion, arguing that the property was privately built by the Eba family and should not become the subject of government action.

    According to the author, the Eba family made significant personal sacrifices in support of Governor Otu’s political aspirations. The letter claimed that Alphonsus Ogar Eba spent long periods away from home during the governor’s nomination and election campaigns, travelling across Cross River State, Abuja and other locations to mobilise support.

    It further stated that the prolonged absences placed emotional burdens on his wife and children, who reportedly celebrated birthdays and family occasions without him because of his political engagements.

    Drawing comparisons with previous administrations, the author recalled that Governor Otu had once left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest under another political platform but said his residence was not subjected to demolition during the administration of former Governor Liyel Imoke.

    The letter urged Governor Otu to allow compassion rather than political differences to guide his decisions, describing the opportunity to govern as one that should be defined by reconciliation, justice and service to the people.

    Appealing to the governor’s Christian faith, the author warned against actions that could inflict hardship on innocent family members, particularly children, while expressing the belief that acts of mercy attract divine favour.

    The letter concluded with a call on Governor Otu to reconsider any proposed action against the property, expressing hope that the matter would be resolved peacefully and in a manner that reflects fairness, justice and respect for the rule of law.

    As of the time of filing this report, the Cross River State Government had not publicly responded to the issues raised in the letter, and the circumstances surrounding the reported demolition plan could not be independently verified.

  • UNICAL Announces Stream B Registration, School Fees Portal Closure

    UNICAL Announces Stream B Registration, School Fees Portal Closure

     

    The Management of the University of Calabar has announced the closure dates for the School Fees and Registration Portals for Stream B students in the 2025/2026 academic session.

    According to a memo issued and signed by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Ekaette Enang, the School Fees Portal will close on Monday, 29 June 2026, while the Registration Portal will close on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.

    The memo explains that the closure is to facilitate adequate preparation for the forthcoming examinations, which are scheduled to commence on Monday, 13 July 2026.

    Management urged all Stream B students who are yet to complete their school fees payment and course registration to do so before the stipulated deadlines, stressing that no extension will be granted to any category of students.

    Students are therefore advised to comply with the directive to avoid being affected by the closure of the portals.

    Public Relations Unit
    University of Calabar

  • Court Restrains Police, DSS, Cross River Government from Harassing Ogoja Vice Chairman Over Official Vehicle

    Court Restrains Police, DSS, Cross River Government from Harassing Ogoja Vice Chairman Over Official Vehicle

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The High Court of Cross River State sitting in Ogoja has granted an interim injunction restraining the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Cross River State Government, and their agents from inviting, arresting, detaining, or harassing the Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, over an official vehicle attached to his office.

    The order was granted pending the hearing and determination of a substantive suit filed by Yakubu following what his legal team described as attempts to deploy state institutions against him in connection with the vehicle.

    The development comes shortly after the same court delivered judgment on June 15, 2026, nullifying Yakubu’s purported impeachment and removal from office as Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area.

    In the judgment, the court reportedly declared the impeachment illegal, unconstitutional, null and void, and affirmed that Yakubu remains the lawful and incumbent Vice Chairman of the council.

    The court further held that the office of the Vice Chairman had never been vacant and that Yakubu was entitled to continue enjoying all rights, privileges, benefits, and emoluments attached to the office.

    According to court documents and statements from his legal counsel, the controversy arose after the Cross River State Government allegedly communicated with the DSS, requesting that Yakubu be denied security clearance to contest an election next year on the grounds that he had failed to return an official vehicle assigned to him.

    His lawyers argued that the court’s declaration confirming him as the substantive Vice Chairman also affirmed his entitlement to the official vehicle allocated to the office, noting that the vehicle’s allocation documents bear his name.

    The situation escalated when Yakubu reportedly received a police invitation alleging that he had converted or stolen the vehicle.

    His legal team subsequently approached the High Court seeking protection from what it described as harassment and intimidation.

    Granting the interim injunction, the court restrained the police, DSS, Cross River State Government, and their representatives from taking any action against Yakubu in relation to the vehicle until the substantive matter is determined.

    Reacting to the development, counsel to Yakubu, F. Baba Isa, Esq., called on political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders in Ogoja to intervene constructively and help bring an end to the dispute.

    He warned against the criminalisation of political disagreements and urged government institutions to uphold constitutional principles, due process, and respect for judicial pronouncements.

    Isa also cautioned the state government against actions that could attract public criticism, referencing the controversial arrest and detention of journalist Agba Jalingo as an example of past events that generated significant public attention.

    He maintained that his legal team would continue to pursue all lawful means to protect the rights, liberty, and dignity of their client while the matter remains before the courts.

  • UNICAL VC Announces Hosting of 2026 NUGA Games, Charges Students to Top Medal Table

    UNICAL VC Announces Hosting of 2026 NUGA Games, Charges Students to Top Medal Table

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof Offiong E. Effiong, has officially announced that the institution will host the 28th edition of the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games from November 14 to 24, 2026.

    Speaking during a press conference at the University Senate Chambers in Calabar, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the university is expecting participation from about 50 universities across the country, with over 50,000 athletes, officials, and spectators anticipated to attend the games. A total of 28 sporting events will feature during the competition.

    As part of preparations for the prestigious sporting festival, Prof. Offiong charged students of the University of Calabar to begin intensive preparations with the aim of emerging as overall champions and topping the medal table at the games.

    To strengthen sports development on campus and discover new talents ahead of NUGA 2026, he announced that every Wednesday from the current semester, lectures will be suspended from 2 p.m. to allow students participate in sporting activities.

    “No lecturer is expected to fix lectures during this period. We want to prepare our students adequately and discover talents that will not only excel at the NUGA Games but also represent the university and the nation in future sporting competitions,” he said.

    The Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence in the university’s readiness to host the games, describing the event as an opportunity to showcase UNICAL’s commitment to academic and athletic excellence while promoting unity among Nigerian universities.

    “The University of Calabar is ready and willing to welcome athletes, officials, and spectators from all over Nigeria and beyond. We are committed to delivering an unforgettable experience that reflects the values of fair play, respect, sportsmanship, and excellence that NUGA represents,” he stated.

    Prof. Offiong acknowledged the support of the Cross River State Government and called on stakeholders, including the media, corporate organizations, political office holders, and the university’s alumni association, to support the successful hosting of the games.

    He noted that hosting NUGA 2026 would serve as a catalyst for the development of modern and durable sports facilities within the university, creating a lasting legacy for future generations of students and athletes.

    According to him, the institution plans to establish state-of-the-art sports complexes that will continue to benefit both the university community and the wider public long after the games are concluded.

    The Vice-Chancellor also appealed to the NUGA Council for continued cooperation and support, assuring them of the university’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, sportsmanship, and organizational excellence throughout the event.

    He concluded by inviting all stakeholders to join the university on the journey towards hosting a memorable and successful NUGA Games in 2026.

    “With enthusiasm, collaboration, and strategic planning, we will be ready to welcome the nation in November 2026 for a celebration of talent, determination, and unity. Together, we will create a lasting legacy for university sports in Nigeria,” he said.


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  • Obanliku Vice Chairman Dismisses Allegations of Irregularities in Market Women Empowerment Programme

    Obanliku Vice Chairman Dismisses Allegations of Irregularities in Market Women Empowerment Programme

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Vice Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Council, Hon. Glory Awowoh, has dismissed allegations made by a group of Sankwala market women who claimed they were shortchanged during the recent empowerment programme organized for market women by the First Lady of Cross River State, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu.

    Responding to the claims, Hon. Awowoh described the allegations as false and misleading, clarifying that the situation arose from misinformation regarding participation in the programme.

    According to her, the empowerment exercise was designed to accommodate only 50 market women from each Local Government Area. However, more than 120 women from Obanliku, including some residents of Calabar, travelled to the venue expecting to participate in the programme.

    She explained that upon realizing that some attendees would not benefit due to the limited allocation, organizers intervened and appealed to beneficiaries to voluntarily share their empowerment items and funds with those who were initially left out.

    “The beneficiaries agreed without hesitation, and as a result, those who initially missed out were also supported. The exercise was concluded peacefully,” she stated.

    Addressing allegations that female politicians and civil servants benefited at the expense of genuine market women, the Vice Chairman described the claims as surprising. She noted that the event was hosted by the First Lady of the state and that the presence of female political leaders was necessary to support the programme, coordinate participants from various LGAs, and ensure its smooth execution.

    Hon. Awowoh stressed that no female political leader from Obanliku received empowerment benefits during the event, insisting that their role was purely supportive and administrative.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, no female political leader from Obanliku was empowered at the programme. Our role was to ensure that our women received their benefits and that the event ended successfully,” she said.

    She also reaffirmed the role of Mrs. Angelina Abaka, coordinator of the Market Women Forum for Greatness in Obanliku, noting that she was duly appointed by the state coordinator and has successfully mobilized women for several programmes organized by the First Lady in Ogoja, Ikom, and Calabar over the past year.

    The Vice Chairman further emphasized that Sankwala Market is not the only market within Obanliku LGA. She pointed out that active markets also exist in Bishiri, Bendi, Bebi, Utanga, and Busi, adding that many women conduct legitimate businesses from their homes, compounds, and communities and are equally deserving of recognition and support.

    Calling for unity and understanding among market women across the local government area, Hon. Awowoh announced plans for a general meeting aimed at addressing concerns, strengthening communication, expanding participation, and ensuring the dissemination of accurate information.

    She urged all market women to remain peaceful and continue supporting initiatives designed to improve their welfare and economic empowerment.

    The empowerment programme was part of ongoing efforts by the First Lady of Cross River State, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, to support women across the state through economic empowerment and capacity-building initiatives.

  • Otu Names DC Enamhe Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River As He Approves 106 Fresh Appointments

    Otu Names DC Enamhe Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River As He Approves 106 Fresh Appointments

     

    Prominent advocate of the Think Cross River initiative, Papa Dorncklaimz Enamhe , has been appointed Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Think Cross River, following the approval of 106 fresh appointments by the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu.

    The appointments were announced in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mr Linus Obogo. According to the statement, the appointments are in furtherance of the administration’s commitment to strengthening the machinery of government and advancing excellence, innovation, efficiency and sustainable development across the state.

    Governor Otu congratulated all the appointees and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them through dedication, professionalism, integrity, diligence and unwavering commitment to the service of Cross River State and its people.

    The appointment of Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe has been widely applauded by stakeholders, particularly given his longstanding commitment to community development, advocacy and the promotion of Cross River State’s interests.

    A lecturer in the Department of Social Work at the University of Calabar, Papa Enamhe is a respected scholar whose research interests include Medical Social Work and Community Development. Beyond academia, he has built a reputation as a grassroots mobiliser, public advocate and community leader.

    Hailing from Atibulum in Gakem, Bekwarra Local Government Area, Papa Enamhe has championed numerous causes aimed at improving the welfare and security of communities across Northern Cross River. As Convener of the Who Is Who Platform, he mobilised citizens in support of the rehabilitation and recovery of Belegete communities following attacks by Cameroonian Ambazonian separatists.

    He also played a pivotal role in the successful repatriation of the remains of former Senate President, the late Dr Joseph Wayas, from the United Kingdom after years of delay. Working alongside leaders from Northern Cross River, he helped facilitate the return and eventual burial of the elder statesman in his homeland. The effort earned public commendation from Governor Otu, who had strongly supported the initiative.

    Papa Enamhe has equally been involved in peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts across the state. His interventions contributed significantly to the resolution of disputes between Ugaga and Igbekurikor communities in Yala Local Government Area, while his testimony was instrumental in fostering reconciliation during the crisis involving Ugboro and Ikaptan communities in Ogoja.

    A passionate advocate for security and border protection, he has consistently called for the establishment of permanent military formations along vulnerable boundary corridors between Obudu and Tiv communities, Gakem and Tiv settlements, as well as Ukele and neighbouring communities in Ebonyi State.

    Through storytelling, public engagement and policy advocacy, Papa Enamhe has continued to advance issues of public interest. He is currently among the leading voices advocating for the reclamation of Cross River State’s oil wells under the Think Cross River campaign, “Reclaim Our Wells.”

    A respected traditional title holder, Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe bears several chieftaincy titles, including Papa Ukperi I of Basang Nation. He is also a member and fellow of several professional bodies.

    He is married to Mrs Pamela Enamhe and they are blessed with four children.

    His appointment as Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River is widely seen as recognition of his years of selfless service, strategic advocacy and unwavering commitment to the development and advancement of Cross River State.