The Lumine News

Category: Press release

  • One Year In Office: Hon Godwin Offiono Presents Scorecard

    HON. GODWIN OFFIONO’S ONE YEAR SCORECARD AS A FIRST TIME HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MEMBER, REPRESENTING OGOJA/YALA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY.

    LEGISLATION/PROJECTS/INTERVENTIONS & EMPOWERMENT, IN ONE YEAR.

    LEGISLATION

    Motions:

    1- Motion on the need to stop excess charges and illegal deductions by commercial banks in Nigeria.

    2- Motion on the need to rehabilitate the Bekwarra-Ogoja-Ikom-Calabar Federal Highway in Cross River State.

    3 -co-sponsored a motion on the demarcation and ceding of Danare and Biajua communities in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State of Nigeria through pillar 113A to the Republic of Cameroon.

    Bills:

    1. Bill for an Act to establish the School of Mines and Geological Studies Yala, Cross River State, 2023 (HB. 231) – First Reading.

    2. Bill for an Act to establish Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme, 2023 (HB. 232) – first reading.

    PROJECTS

    1- Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Wanudu, Ijiraga, Yala LGA, through Personal funding.

    2- Construction of Solar Powered borehole In Olachor, Okpoma, Yala LGA, through the Cross River Basin Development Authority (CRBDA)

    3- Rehabilitation of Borehole at Yahe Motor park, Yala LGA, through Personal funding.

    4- Provision of Sporting equipments (Table Tennis Boards), to 10 selected schools within Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.

    5- Installation of solar street lights in Okuku, Abakpa-Junction, Gabu, Yache, Yahe, Wanihem, Mbube, Nkum-Iborr, Ekajuj 2, Okpoma wards of Ogoja and Yala LGAs.

    6- Grading and expansion of streets in Ogoja/Yala federal constituency: Ezekwe market, Uchu village, Abuja village, Ogbada village in Ezekwe community.
    Igede village, Ibila, Kampala village, Ohadahame, Eheha down to Anyugbe in Igede community.
    Mike-Centee Street in Okuku-Yala, Ijegu Street in Imaje-Yala, Okuku/Old Gboko Road, Okuku in Yala, Klinicapp Street in Imaje, Echumofana in Yala; Assemblies of God Street in Agiga-Ogoja, Kaduna Street in Igoli-Ogoja, Christian Foundation Street in Agiga-Ogoja, and Stadium Road in Igoli-Ogoja.

    7- Construction of motorized borehole in Igede, Yala LGA.

    8- Construction of solar powered borehole in Mbube, Ogoja LGA.

    9- Facilitates construction of a divisional Police station, Officers quarters, 150mm Borehole with 8000 litres overhead tank, 5.5kva generating set/generator House and linear meter block work fence at Okpoma, Yala LGA, Cross River State

    EMPOWERMENT

    1- Empowerment of Selected women from the 24 wards of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency with standard Mechanized Grinding Machines, through Personal funding.

    2- Cash Support to selected women from the 24 Wards of Ogoja/Yala for business start up, through personal funding.

    3- facilitation of Mechanized farming training and empowerment for Women & Youths in Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency

    4- Distribution of fertilizers to farmers in Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency

    5- Facilitation of skill acquisition training; where some constituents were empowered with laptops at the end of training.

    6- Through his NGO, (G&S Offiono) foundation, Hon. Offiono empowers 12 farmers with N3 million micro Agro grant, as a pilot grant.

    INTERVENTIONS

    Aside from reaching out to various community leaders and security agencies in an effort towards restoring Peace during crisis in various areas within the Federal constituency, the Lawmaker also embarked on the following:

    Donation of three million naira (₦3m) for new yam festival celebrations in the Constituency, in August, 2023.

    Distribution of relief materials, Cash and Food items to victims of communal crisis in Ijiegu-Yache, Yala LGA

    Distribution of palliatives to victims of communal crisis in Igbekurikor, Yala LGA.

    Distribution of palliatives to victims of communal crisis in Ugaga, Yala LGA

    Payment of hospital bills for victims of communal crisis in Benekaba and Ujama communities of Ukelle, Yala LGA.

    Payment of Okpoma General Hospital, Adhoc staff Salary from June 2023 till date.

    Distribution of 700 bags of rice and thirty-five million naira (₦35m) to various categories of Constituents in the Constituency for Christmas and New Year celebrations, in December, 2023.

    Rented new accommodation (16 rooms apartment) for 32 victims of fire outbreak at Glado street, Okuku-Yala alongside provision of relief materials to the victims.

    Visited the Leprosy Hospital, Monaiya, Ogoja LGA with cash and food items.

    Hon. Offiono on 4th June, 2024 launched his foundation (G & S Offiono) to continue to assist in agriculture, education, humanitarian services, security, and peace building, adding to the earlier launched Offiono Stars Football Club, nurturing talents in the sports sector.

    The lawmaker has also embarked on numerous Welfare activities/gestures during the period under review, including cash support for celebrations, cash gift to Stakeholders, Youths, women, etc.

  • One Year In Office: Akpanke Addresses Constituents, Reassures People-Centred Representation

    AN ADDRESS BY HON. PETER ATIANASHI AKPANKE , MEMBER REPRESENTING OBUDU, OBANLIKU AND BEKWARRA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, ON THE OCCASION OF HIS ONE YEAR IN OFFICE ON THURSDAY JUNE 13, 2024.

    My beloved brothers and sisters,

    I greet you this day with utmost love and commitment to our fraternity and desire for the progress and well being of our cherished Federal Constituency, which must never at any time be compromised.

    I am overwhelmed by gratitude as I recall your massive support for my candidature, which culminated in your voluminous votes for me, in the height of the unprecedented harassment and intimidation that was visited on our permanently peaceful community, by those who felt the privilege of leadership and king making had become strictly appropriated to them, as if we were existing in a world where there is no God. To God indeed be the glory for our triumph. This is why I keep feeling challenged to serve you in a manner you shall feel justified for reposing confidence in me. I assure you that this challenge remains my guiding spirit and I pray fervently for God’s unfailing guidance and protection, so that I may never derail from it, for our collective good.

    You may wish to observe that in the trajectory of our Federal Constituency, celebration of one year in office by elected representatives of the people, is strange. That I have opted to engage in it is in strict conformity with my unrepentant stance and incurable desire to always be in touch with my people, to feel the pulse of our challenges and prospects, as a gateway to forging a future that is in conformity with our desires. It may have been conceived as a wrong path by many before me. For me, being always with the people is an indelible step in the right direction. That is why from the onset, I undertook a needs assessment tour of our Constituency, to obtain first hand information on our desires, to guide me in my agitation for our fair share of the dividends of democracy. So, kindly accept me as I am and please do not begrudge me for always coming around to know how we feel, as a springboard to the actualisation of our collective desires. To say the least, I appreciate you all.

    It is obvious that in the past one year, it may not have been very smooth, with the obvious reality that all our aspirations may not have been accomplished. I however make bold to declare that with your continued prayers and support, and within the ambit of our possibilities, our effort has been rewarded in the following modest strides.

    – FIVE (5) MOTIONS AND PETITIONS
    –
    1. A Motion for the immediate rehabilitation of the abandoned Obudu Dam Resort. (The Contract has been awarded for the rehabilitation of the Obudu Dam Resort)

    2. A co-sponsored motion (with other Cross River law makers) which raised alarm that the country was on the verge of losing some parts of Cross River State to Cameroon.

    3. Presentation of a petition on the floor of the House from some constituents who felt that they were unjustly withdrawn from the University of Calabar.

    4. Co sponsored Motion against the Demarcation and Ceding of Danare and Biajua Communities in Cross River to the Republic of Cameroon.

    5. A Motion On The Need To Investigate The Indiscriminate Issuance Of “Certificate Of No Objection” by the Bureau of Public Procurement.

    – BILL SPONSORED :

    A Bill for the establishment of a Federal University of Technology in Obanliku, Cross River State.

    – PROJECTS EXECUTED
    –
    1. Commencement of installation of solar street lights in some communities in Obanliku LGA.

    2. Construction of solar powered borehole in Sankwala Market.

    3. Construction of solar powered borehole, Toilets and installation of Street Lights at Obudu old Market Park.

    4. Construction of solar borehole and toilet in Bekwarra Motor Park.

    5. Commencement of installation of Solar Street Lights in Bekwarra LGA beginning with Beten and Nyanya.

    6. Construction of boreholes in Bebuenkayang and Bayaga communities.

    7. Commencement of installation of solar street lights in Obudu LGA beginning with Kubong Bette, Kutiang, Begiaba, Ukwel Obudu, Ukanbi, Utugwang South, Alege/Ubang and PHC Obudu.

    – EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMMES IMPLEMENTED

    1. Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku.

    2. Distribution of machines and Grinding engines to over 50 constituents in Obudu.

    3. Distribution of sewing machines and motorcycles to selected beneficiaries in Bekwarra LGA

    4. Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Bekwarra

    5. Distribution of hand pumps, herbicides and liquid fertilizers to Obanliku female farmers.

    6. Entrepreneurial training/empowerment of young ladies in hair dressing and make-up business in Obanliku LGA

    7. Entrepreneurship training and distribution of hair-making and make-up kits for hair stylists in Obudu

    8. Distribution of food stuff to widows across the ten wards of Obudu

    9. Distribution of food items to widows across the political wards of Obanliku LGA

    10. Distribution of food stuff to widows and people living with disabilities in the 10 wards of Bekwarra

    11. Distribution of incentives, gift packages and cash to constituents, unions and associations across Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra LGA for new yam celebrations.

    12. Facilitated jobs and Recruitment for several constituents through recommendation. Five (5) of my constituents are currently in NDLEA while Two (2) have been gainfully employed at the Federal College of Education,Obudu

    13. Financial Support to 21 Constituents going to Law School.

    14. Distribution of Free Jamb forms to over 300 Constituents in Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku.

    15. Launching of the Peter Akpanke Free Mega Medical Outreach to over 10,000 Constituents in Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku. In this regard, it is on record that the following were achieved.

    • Total number of registered patients for medical, surgical, and eye check-ups: 10,456.

    • Number of medical consultations/patients seen: 10,203.

    • Medications dispensed: Antimalarial, Antidiabetics, Antifungal, antibiotics, haematinics, antihypertensives, analgesics, immune boosters, supplements, etc.

    • Total number of surgeries booked: 131

    • Total number of successful surgeries performed: 112

    • Continuous health education throughout the 7 days of the outreach

    • Referrals made: 19 surgical cases referred.

    16. Distribution of Exercise books to public schools in OBO Federal Constituency and regular payment of school fees for orphans and the less privileged

    17. Award of University Scholarship to the Best Performing 2024 JAMB candidate from our Federal Constituency.

    18. Bursary Registration for students is ongoing.

    19. Facilitation of installation of GSM Network in Utanga and other erstwhile under privileged communities in the Federal Constituency. More are in the pipeline.

    MY MODUS OPERANDI

    1. Operation of a grassroot compliant and open door representation, with maximum accessibility, where every constituent has access to me, except when connection is impossible due to unavoidable network failure or encumbrance of officialdom during legislative hours.

    2. Cultivation of cordiality and maintenance of an unprecedented cordial relationship with all OBO people irrespective of political divide.

    – INTERVENTIONS MADE :
    –
    1. Free Transportation of over 400 Constituents traveling from Obanliku, Bekwarra and Obudu to school to cushion the effect of the Fuel and Transportation Hike during resumption of schools from Christmas celebration.

    2. Payment of hospital bills for patients in Bekwarra General Hospital.

    3. Payment of hospital bills for the less-privileged in different hospitals across Obudu

    4. Regular Free fuel as palliative to cyclists and Drivers in Obudu to cushion the effect of the Removal of fuel Subsidy.

    5. Prompt visit and distribution of relief materials to the Balegate community that was raided and displaced by the Amasodonia Militants.

    MY ANNIVERSARY PACKAGE

    Beyond the above modest strides, I am glad to declare that I have decided to mark my first year in office with the following.

    1. Thanksgiving interdenominational Solemn Assembly at the Obudu Civic Centre.

    2. Meeting with stakeholders in the three LGAs of our Constituency at designated centers.

    3. Distribution of Sewing Machines and Grinding Machines to selected beneficiaries across the Federal Constituency.

    4. Distribution of writing materials to pupils and students in selected Primary and Secondary Schools across the Federal Constituency.

    5. Payment of school fees for selected pupils and students in selected Primary and Secondary Schools across the Federal Constituency.

    6. Laying of Foundation Stone for school blocks in selected schools across the Federal Constituency.

    7. Commissioning of projects completed within my first year in office.

    Generally speaking, it may be considered incontestable that my approach to representation has been guided by a singular focus on people-centered representation. As earlier noted, since taking office, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to initiating programs, policies and interventions that bring me closer to my Constituents and prioritize their needs and well-being. I have heard that my regular visits to the constituency in and out of season have raised positive gossip that has earned me the Nickname “The Village Politician”. I shall never change or relent. I rather hope to do more throughout my tenure, as I await the Budgetry Provisions and implementation of our Constituency needs and proposals before the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    It must be added and noted that in every clime, detractors abound. Like women married to the same man, who always feign unconsciousness of the glaring beauty of their mates, such detractors have permanently elected to void or discredit our strides. I sincerely acknowledge their inglorious indulgence but I shall never be distracted or deterred by them. Some have had several opportunities, which they squandered and rather deployed for fertilization of discord and acrimony, instead of furthering our progress. I am convinced that as the saying goes, “Rome was not built in a day”. I am therefore confident that bit by bit, we shall overcome our challenges and developmental tasks. I appeal for continued patience and assure you that disappointment shall never be our portion.

    Indeed, I lack the capacity, especially in material terms, to thank you enough for your continued prayers and support for me. Only God can bless and reward you all enough. I so pray therefore, that His abundant blessings be let loose to shower unceasingly on you, to the glory of our dear OBO Federal Constituency. OBO Constituency is our project. Its upliftment is our collective task. Together, we shall demolish all the mountains and refill all the valleys that dare to stand between us and the attainment of our collective desires.

    LONG LIVE OBO FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY!

    LONG LIVE CROSS RIVER STATE!!

    LONG LIVE THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA!!!

    Thank you.

  • Hon Peter Akpanke Presents Scorecard To Mark One Year In Office

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke, has rolled out his scorecard to mark his one year in office.

    In a release he personally signed and made available to TheLumineNews, Akpanke stated that he has moved and cosponsored 5 motions and presented one petition from some constituents who felt they were unjustly withdrawn from the University of Calabar, as well as sponsored one bill for the establishment of Federal University of Technology in Obanliku.

    The release also indicated that he has facilitated 7 projects for his constituency; Installation of solar street lights in Bendi, Obanliku Local Government Area, Beten and Nyanya in Bekwarra Local Government Area, Kubong Bette, Kutiang, Begiaba, Ukwel-Obudu, Okambi, Utugwang, Alege, Ugbang and PHC Obudu, all in Obudu Local Government Area.

    Several other empowerment were listed in the release to include educational and transport support to students including award of scholarship to best WAEC student and financial aid to law graduates preparing for Law School.

    Find full text of the release:

     

    HONORABLE PETER AKPANKE : 1 YEAR OF A PEOPLE CENTERED REPRESENTATION
    (June 13th 2023 – June 13th 2024)

    – MOTIONS/PETITIONS INITIATED : 6

    1. A Motion for the immediate rehabilitation of the abandoned Obudu Dam Resort. (The Contract has been Awarded for the rehabilitation of the Obudu Dam Resort)

    2. He co-sponsored a motion (with other Cross River law makers) which raised alarm that the country was on the verge of losing some parts of Cross River State to Cameroon.

    3. He presented a petition on the floor of the House from some constituents who felt that they were unjustly withdrawn from the University of Calabar.

    4. Co sponsored a Motion on the Demarcation and Ceding of Danare and Biajua Communities in Boki to Republic of Cameroon.

    5. Hon. Akpanke Sponsored a Motion On The Need To Investigate The Indiscriminate Issuance Of “Certificate Of No Objection” by the Bureau of Public Procurement.

    6. Hon. Akpanke presented A motion of public urgent Importance over indiscriminate kidnapping in unical and prof Egaga

    – BILLS SPONSORED : 1
    A Bill for the establishment of a Federal University of Technology in Obanliku, Cross River State.

    – PROJECTS EXECUTED : 7
    1. Installation of solar street lights in Bendi communities in Obanliku LGA (Udieligie Street in Ketting and Ushibetiang Street in Ketting)

    2. Construction of solar powered borehole in Sankwala Market.

    3. Construction of solar powered borehole, Toilets and installation of Street Lights at Obudu old Market Park.

    4. Construction of solar borehole and toilet in Bekwarra Motor Park.

    5. Installation of Solar Street Lights in Beten and Nyanya in Bekwarra Local Government.

    6. Construction of boreholes in Bebuankayang and Bayaga communities.

    7. Installation of solar street lights in Kubung bette, Kutiang, Begiaba, Ukwel, Obudu, Ukambi, Utugwang South, Alege/Ubang Villages in Obudu LGA and Installation of Street Lights in PHC Obudu.

    – EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMMES IMPLEMENTED : 18
    1. Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Obudu/Bekwarra and Obanliku Federal Constituency.

    2. Distribution of machines and Grinding engines to over 50 constituents in Obudu

    3. Distribution of sewing machines and motorcycles to selected beneficiaries in Bekwarra LGA

    4. Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Bekwarra

    5. Distribution of hand pumps, herbicides and liquid fertilizers to Obanliku female farmers

    6. Entrepreneurial training/empowerment of young ladies in hair dressing and makeup business in Obanliku LGA

    7. Entrepreneurship training and distribution of hair-making and makeup kits for hair stylists in Obudu

    8. Distribution of food stuffs to about 200 widows across the ten wards of Obudu

    9. Distribution of food items to widows across the political wards of Obanliku LGA

    10. Distribution of food stuffs to over 200 widows and people living with disabilities in the 10 wards of Bekwarra

    11. Distribution of incentives, gift packages and cash to constituents, unions and associations across Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra LGA for new yam celebrations.

    12. Facilitated jobs and Recruitment for several constituents through his Recommendation. (5 of his constituents are currently in NDLEA while 2 have been gainfully employed at the Federal College of Education,Obudu)

    13. Financial Support to 21 Constituents going to Law School.

    14. Distribution of Free Jamb forms to over 300 Constituents in Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku federal Constituency.

    15. Launching of the Peter Akpanke Free Mega medical Outreach to 10,000 Constituents in Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku federal Constituency.
    • Total number of registered patients for medical, surgical, and eye check-ups: 10,456.
    • Number of medical consultations/patients seen: 10,203.
    • Medications dispensed: Antimalarials, Antidiabetics, Antifungal, antibiotics, haematinics, antihypertensives, analgesics, immune boosters, supplements, etc.
    • Total number of surgeries booked: 131
    • Total number of surgeries performed: 112
    • Number of health education sessions conducted: Continuous health education throughout the 7-day outreach
    • Referrals made: 19 surgical cases referred

    16. Distribution of Exercise books to public schools in OBO Federal Constituency and pay school fees for orphans and less privilege.

    17. Hon. Akpanke Awards University Scholarship to the Best Performing Waec Student from his Federal Constituency.

    18. Ongoing Bursary Registration

    – INTERVENTIONS MADE : 4
    1. Free Transportation to over 400 Constituents traveling from Obanliku, Bekwarra and Obudu to cushion the effect of the Fuel Hike during resumption of Schools.

    2. Payment of hospital bills for patients in Bekwarra General Hospital

    3. Payment of hospital bills for the less-privileged in different hospitals across Obudu

    4. Free fuel as palliative to 150 cyclist Drivers in Obudu to cushion the effect of the Removal of fuel Subsidy.

    Hon. Peter Akpanke’s approach to representation has been guided by a singular focus on people-centered representation. Since taking office, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to initiating programs, policies and interventions that brings him close to his Constituency and prioritize the needs and well-being of his constituents.

    His regular visits to his constituency in and out of season has given him the Nickname “The Village Politician” He hopes to do more in coming Months as he await the Budgetary Provisions and implementation of his Constituency needs and proposals before the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    Thank you for your continued prayers and Support for Hon. Peter Akpanke.

  • Jarigbe Calls On Nigerian Leaders To Emulate Former President Goodluck Johnathan To Strengthen Democracy

    Goodwill Message by Senator Representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Cross River State, on the Occasion of the 25th Anniversary of Unbroken Democracy in Nigeria.

    Fellow Nigerians,

    Respected Constituents,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    It is with immense pride and gratitude that I join all democrats to celebrate a remarkable milestone in our nation’s history – 25 years of unbroken democracy. This occasion provides us with a moment to reflect on our journey, honor those who paved the way, and reaffirm our commitment to the principles of democracy.

    First and foremost, let us pay tribute to the forefathers of our democracy. These courageous men and women fought tirelessly, many putting their lives on the line, to ensure that Nigeria could rise as a democratic nation. Their vision, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication laid the foundation upon which our democracy stands. We owe them an eternal debt of gratitude for their unparalleled contributions to our nation’s political evolution.

    In a special way, we must extend our heartfelt thanks to former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR. His patriotic and selfless act in 2015, when he handed over power without hesitation to the winner of the Presidential Election, was a watershed moment in our democratic history. By respecting the will of the people and ensuring a peaceful transition, Dr. Jonathan not only strengthened our fledgling democracy but also set a sterling example of leadership and statesmanship. His actions spoke volumes about his commitment to the principles of democracy and the future of Nigeria.

    As we celebrate this silver jubilee of our democratic journey, it is imperative to acknowledge that democracy is not merely a destination but an ongoing process that requires constant nurturing and vigilance. Our democracy must be enduring, and to achieve this, our leaders must emulate the exemplary patriotism demonstrated by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. The election results must always reflect the true will of the people, free from coercion and manipulation.

    To my fellow leaders, I urge you to always put Nigeria first. Our actions and decisions should be guided by the greater good of our nation and its citizens. Let us work together to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and justice. By doing so, we will ensure that our democracy remains vibrant and resilient, capable of withstanding the tests of time.

    In conclusion, as we mark this 25th anniversary of unbroken democracy, let us renew our pledge to protect and advance the democratic ideals that have brought us this far. Let us honor the sacrifices of our forebears and the exemplary actions of leaders like Dr. Goodluck Jonathan by committing ourselves to a future where the voice of every Nigerian is heard, respected, and valued.

    Thank you, and may God bless Nigeria.

    Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Cross River North Senatorial District
    Cross River State

  • Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Welcomes Cross Riverians To The Month Of June

    The month of June begins a new chapter in the continuous unfolding of an amazing period in the life of Cross Riverians.

    We live in a season that has witnessed multiple accomplishments in every sector of governance.

    We in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs are proud to be part of a team that is delivering hugely on the promises we made one year ago. We remain unrelenting in continuing to deliver on the People’s First mandate of our tireless Governor.

    As has been the case since my Ministry came into existence 12 months ago, my team and I are happy to work endlessly to make the month of June as well as the coming months ever sweeter and always ready to serve all Cross Riverians.

    My Ministry has extended a helpful hand to the homeless among us; we have identified the needs of our destitute population and addressed them boldly; we have rescued children and adults from street life; we have fed the hungry and clothed them. Yet, our work will continue today, tomorrow, and always. We are stepping boldly into the month of June with a more willful readiness than the previous months. Our success will be amplified even more than we have already recorded.

    It is my hope that in whatever occupation you are engaged, this month will be one of the most productive months of the year. My Ministry stands ready to see you through a successful season.
    Happy month of June to you all and God’s blessings.

    Hon. Helen Isamoh E. Ph.D. Fhnr.
    Commissioner For Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Cross River State.

  • Akpanke Congratulates Tinubu, OTu On One Year Anniversary In Office

    CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO PRESIDENT TINUBU AND GOVERNOR OTU ON THEIR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

    I wish to extend my warm congratulations to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State on their one year anniversary in office.

    Their dedication to the growth and development of Nigeria and Cross River State is evident in the numerous projects and initiatives they have undertaken. I commend them for their remarkable achievements and urge them to continue their good work.

    Governor Otu’s developmental strides have yielded significant improvements in infrastructure, security, tourism, sports, education, agriculture, and oil and gas, ushering in a new era of transformation in Cross River State. I am confident that his administration will continue to deliver more dividends of democracy to our people.

    President Tinubu’s efforts to revamp the nation’s economy, improve security, and promote unity among Nigerians are commendable. I urge him to continue his good work and do even more for our nation in the coming years.

    As a representative of the people, I am confident that their leadership will continue to yield positive results and bring prosperity to our people.

    Congratulations once again to President Tinubu and Governor Otu on their one year anniversary!

    Signed:

    Awade Friday
    SSA Media and Publicity to Hon. Peter Akpanke
    Member representing Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwerra federal constituency

  • One Year In Office: Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Lauds Governor Otu

     

    Your Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s one year in office is a confirmation of King Solomon’s biblical assertion that the people rejoice when the righteous are in authority. Indeed, the good people of Cross River State have immense reasons to rejoice and celebrate today, 29th May, 2024, as you mark your one year in office as the People’s Governor.

    I, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Directors, and entire staff of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation wholeheartedly join your teaming supporters and admirers to heartily congratulate you on your monumental accomplishments in your determined efforts to repositioning our dear State.

    In your resolute endeavours to promote human welfare, you created the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in August 2023, where the humanitarian hub resides with, in order to develop humanitarian policies and provide effective coordination of the local, state, national and international humanitarian interventions in the state, ensure strategic disaster mitigation, and to have social protection systems that are proactive, humane, and sustainable for improvement and the general welfare of the people of Cross River State.

    Your extraordinary performance in rebuilding our State is quite commendable, and indeed, we are in the Season of Sweetness.

    Congratulations, Your Excellency, and Happy ONE Year Celebration!

    Helen Isamoh Egodo, Ph.D.
    Honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation
    Cross River State.

  • Obono-Obla Congratulates Sen Otu On His One Year Anniversary As Governor

    I heartily congratulate His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, on his first anniversary in office as Governor of Cross River State of Nigeria.

    On 29th May 2023, Senator Otu took the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance as the 7th democratically elected Governor of Cross River State.

    I greatly rejoice with you on this solemn occasion of your first anniversary at governorship, which is an affirmation of the unity and oneness of our people in overwhelmingly voting for you as Governor in an election that saw your winning clearly in 15 Local Government Areas out of 18, and also scoring the mandatory 25 percent of the total votes cast in the three other Local Government Areas.

    Even with the massive devaluation of the national currency and withdrawal of fuel subsidies that brought unprecedented hardship, you have methodically and calmly restored some semblance of order to our dear State.

    You are also laying a great foundation for the State, and I fervently believe that the next three years under your leadership, the State shall witness great economic growth and development.

    Happy first year anniversary, once again to His Excellency! And to the People of Cross River State!!!
    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla

  • Mike Etaba Condemns Recent Outbreak Of Communal Violence In Ogamana And Ofonokom

     

    The member representing Eating/Obubra federal constituency, Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, Member Representing condemned the  recent outbreak of communal violence in Ogamana and Ofonokom

    In a release sighted by TheLumineNews and signed by Hon Etaba, the leaders of both communities have been called to exercise restraint.

    The release reads in full “I am deeply saddened and appalled by the recent outbreak of communal violence between Ogamana and Ofonokom communities in Obubra. It is disheartening to witness our brothers and sisters, who have lived together for generations, resorting to violence and choosing the path of destruction instead of dialogue.

    “As a representative of the people, it is my utmost duty to ensure the safety and welfare of my constituents. I strongly condemn this unwarranted and senseless violence which has caused a heavy gun battle in the Ijebeh axis, leading to the death of one of my constituents. This situation demands immediate attention and intervention from all authorities. It is crucial that peace and stability are restored in these communities without any further delay.

    “On my part, I have put a call across to the relevant security agencies to swiftly intervene and bring an end to this destructive conflict. They should deploy adequate personnel to the affected areas to halt the ongoing gun battle and prevent further loss of lives and destruction of properties. The safety and security of our people must be the top priority.

    “Furthermore, I urge the leaders and stakeholders of both communities to exercise restraint and embrace peaceful dialogue in resolving whatever differences they may have. Violence only begets more violence, and it is through peaceful engagements that we can find lasting solutions to our conflicts.

    “To our brothers and sisters in Ogamana and Ofonokom, I stand in solidarity with you during this trying time. I implore you to lay down your arms and seek peaceful resolutions to any grievances you may have. United, we can overcome this crisis and rebuild the trust and harmony that once characterized our communities.

    “Lastly, I call on all the chiefs, women, youths and other stakeholders of Obubra to join hands with us to take urgent action in resolving this conflict and bring the perpetrators of violence to justice. Our Local Government deserve peace, security, and development, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their well-being.

    “May peace prevail in Ogamana and Ofonokom, and may the affected find solace and relief soon.

    “Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba
    Member representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency”

  • Gov Otu Directs Payment Of All State And Local Government Workers, Pensioners

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Governor Otu Directs Payment Of All State And Local Government Workers, Pensioners

    1. Governor Bassey Otu directs that all unpaid salaries and pensions should be paid immediately, while those with issues should be verified and cleared for the implementation of February salaries.

    2. The Governor sincerely sympathises with all employees and pensioners for the delay due to ongoing staff and pension audit and verification exercise.

    3. However, to ensure the seamless payment of February salaries and pensions, the Governor directs all those with duplicate names and accounts, which have been made public, to report at the Office of the Head of Service for authentication.

    4. Names of the affected staff have also been sent to the respective MDAs for that purpose.

    5. The Governor is desirous to save sufficient funds from the audit and verification exercise in order to commence the IMMEDIATE employment of the teeming unemployed Cross Riverians into the State and Local Government Service.

    Emmanuel Ogbeche
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
    21/2/24