C’River Set to Host Coffee Festival with Experts from 30 Countries in Attendance

Ukorebi Esien  | October 17, 2026

CALABAR — Cross River State is set to host the second edition of Coffee Festival International Nigeria 2026, with coffee experts from approximately 30 countries expected to participate in the three-day event scheduled for October 30 to November 1 in Calabar.

The festival, which will hold at the ASUU Hall of the University of Calabar, is themed, “Sustainability: Building the Future of Coffee in Nigeria.”

Preparations for the international event have commenced, with the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, flagging off the first rally to mobilise support and build awareness ahead of the festival.

The event follows the maiden edition held in Jos, Plateau State, in 2025, and is expected to provide a platform for farmers, entrepreneurs, investors and industry professionals to explore opportunities within Nigeria’s coffee sector.

Activities lined up for the festival include lectures, training sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions, barista competitions, pageantry and international networking.

The organisers are expected to use the gathering to promote knowledge exchange, encourage investment and strengthen partnerships that could support the development of Nigeria’s coffee industry.

For Cross River, the festival presents an opportunity to draw attention to the state’s agricultural potential and explore ways to expand coffee production, processing and marketing.

Stakeholders are also expected to examine strategies for improving farmers’ incomes, creating employment opportunities and increasing value addition across the coffee value chain.

The festival comes amid efforts to position agriculture as a driver of economic growth through improved production, investment and stronger market linkages.

With Calabar preparing to welcome participants from across the world, the event is expected to bring renewed attention to the prospects of developing a sustainable and competitive coffee industry in Nigeria.

Glamour, Glitz as Forum Celebrates Governor Otu at 67

CALABAR — It is a celebration of style and substance as the Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) rolls out the drums for Governor Bassey Otu's 67th birthday, spotlighting a leader whose "People First" mantra has become a badge of honour in the state. The atmosphere was electric on Sunday, 18 October 2026, as family, friends, associates and the entire Cross River populace joined the forum in honouring a man many describe as the embodiment of purposeful leadership.

In a glowing tribute signed by Chairman Hon. Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo and Secretary Dr. Julius Ochim Okputu, the CRSCF poured encomiums on the governor, describing him as a dynamic and visionary leader whose administration has continued to deliver steady transformation. The forum did not mince words in celebrating Otu's achievements, rolling out a dazzling scorecard that read like a society programme: hundreds of kilometres of roads constructed and rehabilitated, long-abandoned projects completed, and rural access roads prioritised in a bold statement of inclusive governance.

The glamour extended to the health sector, where the forum celebrated a doubled budgetary allocation, the revitalisation of over 100 primary healthcare centres, the recruitment of more than 2,000 health professionals, and the introduction of free maternal and child care services — a package the CRSCF described as a gift to the vulnerable. In education, the consistent payment of WAEC fees for tens of thousands of indigenous students between 2024 and 2026 and the establishment of new tertiary institutions drew particular applause, while the agricultural revolution under Project GROW — with its mini-tractors, improved seedlings, crop-specific clusters and offtake agreements — was hailed as a masterclass in economic empowerment.

But the highlight of the celebration was the economic revitalisation drive, which the forum said has restored the state's pride of place. The successful recovery of Tinapa Business and Resort, the expansion of Cally Air, progress on the Obudu Cargo Airport, the focused advancement of the Bakassi Deep Seaport, and the ongoing efforts to reenlist Cross River as an oil-producing state were all reeled out as evidence of a governor who thinks big and delivers. The CRSCF also praised Otu's broader vision of a secured and peaceful state, human capital development, agricultural transformation, tourism revival and the blue economy, which it said continues to inspire hope and chart a clear path toward shared prosperity.

The forum offered prayers for renewed strength, sound health, greater wisdom and divine favour, wishing the governor a new year filled with joy, peace and outstanding success in the service of the people. With the slogan "CRSCF... For History. For Progress. For Equity" ringing through the tribute, the message was unmistakable: in Cross River, Governor Otu is not just a leader — he is the star of the moment, and his 67th birthday was a fitting tribute to a man whose "People First" philosophy has become the pride of the state.

Crack in C’River APC as 11 Lawmakers Back Tinubu, Withhold Support for Otu, Other Candidates

Ukorebi Esien  | October 17, 2026

CALABAR — Fresh political tension may be brewing within the Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following a meeting between 11 members of the State House of Assembly and leaders of *Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria*, a political support movement advocating the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The lawmakers, led by the House Majority Leader, Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo, reportedly reaffirmed their support for President Tinubu but expressed reservations about extending the same level of political support to other APC candidates in Cross River State, including Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

The development comes amid controversy surrounding the party's ticket arrangements for the forthcoming elections, 

The meeting, held at the national office of Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria, brought the lawmakers into discussions with Hon. Innocent Egede, the movement's National Director of Strategic Deployment and Implementation.

According to an account of the engagement, some of the legislators had hoped to secure APC tickets to pursue another term in the House of Assembly some members were said to be pursuing2nf term while others were pursuing3rd term or natuonal Assembly tickets. The reported disagreement over ticket arrangements has fuelled speculation about the extent of their willingness to support other candidates of the party.

During the engagement, Egede reportedly appealed to the lawmakers to reconsider their position and work collectively for APC candidates across Cross River State.

He emphasised party unity, strategic coordination and electoral synergy, warning that divisions among political stakeholders could undermine the party's overall performance at the polls and affect its presidential vote mobilisation in the state.

Egede also reiterated the movement's target of securing 600,000 votes for Tinubu in Cross River State, underscoring the need for a coordinated political structure capable of mobilising support across constituencies.

Following the meeting, Egede led the delegation to meet the movement's Director-General, Hon. Bala Ahmed, who also urged the lawmakers to align with the broader electoral objectives of the APC.

Ahmed reportedly pledged to integrate the legislators into the operational structure of the movement's national organisation, subject to the directive of Barr. Seyi Tinubu, identified as the movement's chief founder.

The proposed integration could provide another channel for engagement with the lawmakers, although it remains unclear whether it will lead to a resolution of the political differences surrounding the ticket arrangements.

However, Rt. Francis Asuquo and Rt. Hon. Dr. Davies Etta, Leader and  Deputy Leader of the  Cross River State House of Assembly respectively in separate Press Statements have rejected the description of the delegation as “aggrieved lawmakers”, insisting that their participation in the meeting should not be reduced to a narrative of disgruntled politicians.

Etta in his statement said the report was not only malicious but misleading and an attempt to create disunity within the APC family in Cross River State. Adding that he has no reason to be aggrieved after serving two terms in the House of Assembly. 

Asuquo, on the other hand described the statement as disheartening and disappointing, Adding that he has no reason to be aggrived having been given opportunities to serve his people for a two term of 8 years and that he and Etta had in the said meeting corrected the impression that they were aggrieved.

But members didn't deny attending the meeting but said the meeting wasnt a convergence of aggrieved lawmakers but a meeting where they sought for opportunity to be integrated into the national structure of Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria campaign organisation.  

Their position introduces another dimension to the unfolding political conversation, with the lawmakers seeking to distinguish their engagement from the characterisation being attached to it

The rejection of the “aggrieved lawmakers” label by Asuquo and Etta is significant because it challenges the narrative through which the meeting has been interpreted.

Aside Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo who led the delegation, other members of the delegation were:

1. Rt. Hon. Dr. Davies Etta — Deputy Leader, Abi State Constituency.

2. Hon. Egbe Abeng Egbe — Obubra II State Constituency.

3. Hon. Ovat Dickson Agbor — Obubra I State Constituency.

4. Hon. Ashakia Puis Ashaks — Obanliku State Constituency.

5. Hon. Victor Nsa — Calabar South II State Constituency.

6. Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey — Akpabuyo State Constituency.

7. Hon. Eyo Bassey — Bakassi State Constituency.

8. Hon. Okon Nyong Ewona — Akamkpa I State Constituency.

9. Hon. Mercy Akpama — Yakurr II State Constituency.

10. Hon. Kingsley Ntui — Etung State Constituency

UNICROSS VC Charges Newly Inducted Teachers on Ethics, Resilience

Ukorebi Esien | October 16, 2026

CALABAR  — The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has charged newly inducted teachers to uphold professional ethics, demonstrate resilience and maintain high standards of discipline and integrity in the discharge of their duties.

Bassey gave the charge on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) induction ceremony hosted by the university.

Congratulating the inductees, the Vice Chancellor described teaching as a profession that carries significant responsibility for shaping learners’ knowledge, values and character.

She urged the newly inducted teachers to draw inspiration from worthy role models and recognise the lasting impact their conduct and professional practices could have on their students.

According to her, teaching goes beyond the acquisition of academic qualifications, requiring practitioners to demonstrate discipline, integrity and resilience while translating their knowledge into meaningful learning experiences.

Bassey also encouraged the teachers to remain steadfast in the face of professional challenges and uphold high moral standards, stressing the importance of personal conduct in the teaching profession.

She expressed hope that the inductees would apply their knowledge and professional training to contribute meaningfully to the development of education and society.

The Vice Chancellor further prayed for divine wisdom and guidance for the new teachers as they begin their professional journey.

Army General Bags PhD in Defence Studies, Sets Academic Record with 5.0 CGPA

Ukorebi Esien  | October 15, 2026

ABUJA — A senior Nigerian Army officer, General Emmanuel Atewe, has emerged as the overall best doctoral graduate in Defence and Strategic Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), graduating with a perfect Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 5.0.

Atewe’s achievement was celebrated at the 36th Convocation Ceremony of the Nigerian Defence Academy, held at the Ribadu Auditorium, NDA Permanent Site, Afaka, Kaduna State.

His accomplishment marks a significant milestone in his military career, highlighting his commitment to academic excellence despite the demanding nature of military service and the interruptions caused by official responsibilities.

The doctorate adds to Atewe’s professional accomplishments, distinguishing him as a military officer who has combined leadership and service with advanced scholarship in defence and strategic studies.

Speaking on his academic journey, the Postgraduate Secretary of the NDA, Mrs. Afiniki Oga Ulia, described Atewe as a pioneer student whose resilience, persistence and determination contributed to his success.

Ulia explained that military duties had taken him away from his academic programme for a considerable period, but he returned with renewed commitment and successfully completed his studies.

She said his ability to overcome the challenges and graduate with a perfect CGPA offered an inspiring example to younger students and other professionals pursuing academic qualifications alongside demanding careers.

According to her, Atewe’s achievement demonstrated the importance of consistency and determination in overcoming obstacles.

The general’s doctoral supervisor, Professor D. O. Alabi, also commended his courage, doggedness and dynamism throughout the research process.

Alabi, who has spent approximately 35 years at the NDA and supervised numerous senior military officers pursuing doctoral degrees, said Atewe’s determination distinguished his research journey.

He acknowledged the challenges encountered during the research process, noting that the rigorous academic demands contributed to the eventual outcome.

In his response, Atewe expressed appreciation to his supervisor, acknowledging the guidance and challenges he encountered during the research process as important contributions to his success.

Beyond his military and academic accomplishments, Atewe was also praised by colleagues and associates for his leadership, integrity, mentorship and commitment to Christian evangelism and service to humanity.

Colonel A. O. Kwentoh described him as a man of honour and integrity, noting that his achievements had made him a source of inspiration to others within the Nigerian Army.

Similarly, Mr. Kennedy Musa urged the general to use the knowledge and intellectual capacity acquired through his doctoral studies to make greater contributions to society.

Atewe’s achievement underscores the possibility of combining demanding professional responsibilities with advanced academic pursuits. His specialisation in Defence and Strategic Studies also reflects the importance of research and intellectual development in understanding the complex issues shaping national security and military strategy.

His emergence as the top doctoral graduate with a perfect 5.0 CGPA has drawn commendation from colleagues, academic associates and friends, who described the feat as a source of pride and inspiration.

The achievement adds another chapter to Atewe’s career, reinforcing the value of discipline, resilience and lifelong learning in military service and leadership. 

Umahi Urges South-South to Back Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election Bid

Ukorebi Esien  | October 16, 2026

ASABA— Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has urged residents of the South-South geopolitical zone to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing the Federal Government’s infrastructure projects and interventions across the region.

Umahi made the appeal on Thursday during the reopening of the First Niger Bridge to vehicular movement following 38 days of closure for emergency rehabilitation works.

The minister, who led a Federal Government delegation to the bridge, said the timely completion of the repairs demonstrated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to maintaining critical national infrastructure and ensuring the safety of road users.

He said the rehabilitation was necessary to address maintenance needs on the strategic bridge, which serves as a major transport link between the South-South and South-East regions.

Umahi argued that the Federal Government’s infrastructure interventions in the South-South should be recognised by residents of the region, urging them to reciprocate by supporting Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

The minister’s appeal places infrastructure development at the centre of the administration’s case for continued political support ahead of the next general election.

On the East-West Road, which connects communities and economic centres across several South-South states, Umahi said the Federal Government had ordered full-scale construction on the road.

He also cautioned content creators against making unverified claims and launching attacks without establishing the facts, urging greater responsibility in public commentary on government projects.

The reopening of the First Niger Bridge restored vehicular movement following the 38-day closure, which had been announced as necessary for emergency rehabilitation.

Some road users commended the Federal Government’s infrastructure efforts and praised the minister over the completion of the repairs.

However, the minister’s call for political support comes as voters prepare to assess candidates and their records ahead of the 2027 elections. The extent to which infrastructure delivery will influence voting decisions across the South-South remains a matter for voters to determine.

Coalition Takes Child Marriage Campaign to C’River Schools, Calls for Girls’ Protection

Ukorebi Esien  | October 13, 2026

CALABAR — National Coalition to End Child Marriage in Nigeria has taken its campaign against child marriage to Government Secondary School, Akim, Calabar, Cross River State, calling for stronger protection of girls’ rights and sustained investment in their education.

The sensitisation programme, organised by the Cross River State chapter of the coalition to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, was held under the theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.”

Speaking at the event, the coalition’s state coordinator, Kebe Ikpi, reprrsestressed by Emmanuel  Ele, said the importance of education in protecting girls from early marriage, teenage pregnancy and other practices that could undermine their development.

Ikpi urged students, particularly girls, to remain in school and complete their education before marriage, noting that education equips them with the knowledge, confidence and skills to make informed decisions about their future.

He also drew attention to the Cross River State Child Rights Law, 2023, which provides legal protection for children, including provisions against marriage involving persons below the age of 18.

The coalition emphasised that girls should be allowed to enjoy their childhood, pursue their education and develop their potential without being subjected to early marriage or other forms of rights violations.

A civic education teacher at the school, Patience Safana, welcomed the initiative, describing the sensitisation as timely and relevant to the experiences of students from different family and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Safana identified poverty, cultural practices and other social pressures as factors that could expose girls to early marriage and teenage pregnancy.

She recounted the case of a brilliant Senior Secondary School Three student who became pregnant and subsequently stopped attending school, expressing concern over the impact of teenage pregnancy on girls’ education and future prospects.

According to her, programmes that educate students about their rights and responsibilities could help shape their attitudes and encourage them to make better-informed choices.

The coalition also advocated sustained school-based initiatives to promote girls’ rights, with discussions highlighting the need for school clubs that would encourage positive values and provide continued awareness beyond one-off sensitisation programmes.

The principal of Government Secondary School, Akim, Mrs. Magdalene Assam, said the school had encountered cases involving child rights concerns, adding that issues beyond the school’s capacity were referred to relevant authorities.

She described the sensitisation as an important step towards helping students understand their rights and the appropriate channels to seek assistance when those rights were violated.

Assam expressed optimism that the programme would increase awareness among students and strengthen their ability to recognise and report rights violations.

During the programme, the coalition also presented copies of the Cross River State Child Rights Law, 2023, as amended, to the school to promote greater understanding of the legal framework for child protection.

Students who participated in the sensitisation said they had learnt the importance of patience, knowing their rights and making responsible decisions about their lives.

The programme formed part of broader advocacy efforts to end child marriage and promote the rights, education and wellbeing of girls in Cross River State.

The coalition called on schools, families, communities and relevant authorities to work together to protect girls, challenge harmful practices and ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and fulfil her potential.

Present at the event were representatives from National Human Rights Commission and Centre for Citizens Rights,  Office of the Public Defender, Child Protection Network Caritas Nigeria, Girls Power Initiatives, Partners for Peace and other CSOs 

ADC Candidate Urges Government to Stop Political Violence, Ensure Accountability

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Cross River State, Ambassador Nkoyo Toyo, has condemned the reported attack on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) consultative meetings in Calabar South, describing the incident as a dangerous assault on democratic participation and a troubling warning ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement signed by her spokesman, Mr Archibong Eyo, the act was strongly condemned. Fuming, she said, “The reported violence, in which gunshots were allegedly fired, persons injured and vehicles reportedly vandalised during political consultations on October 2, must not be treated as another routine political dispute. Political disagreements are legitimate; shooting, intimidation, destruction of property and the use of violence to disrupt political activities are not.”

Ambassador Toyo calls on the Cross River State Government and all security agencies to act immediately and decisively. “The Police Command must conduct a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation, identify those responsible, establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law, regardless of political affiliation or status,” the ADC gubernatorial candidate said.

Furthermore, she said, “We cannot build a democratic society where political meetings are met with gunfire and intimidation. Cross River belongs to all of us. No political party, candidate or individual has the right to determine who can meet, campaign, organise or express a political opinion through violence.

“The government must send a clear message that Cross River will not become a theatre of political violence ahead of 2027. The security agencies must investigate this incident professionally and transparently, and the public deserves to know what happened and who was responsible.

“Today it is the PDP. Tomorrow it could be the ADC, APC, Labour Party or any other political organisation. Silence in the face of political violence creates the conditions for its expansion.”

Ambassador Toyo further urged political parties and their supporters to reject retaliation and allow law-enforcement authorities to investigate the incident. She stressed that political competition must be settled through ideas, votes and peaceful democratic engagement, not guns, thugs or intimidation.

She also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations and other stakeholders to pay closer attention to emerging threats to political participation in the state and strengthen mechanisms for documenting and responding to political violence ahead of the 2027 elections.

In her words, “The people of Cross River deserve an election environment where candidates can meet voters without fear, parties can organise freely, and citizens can make political choices without intimidation.

“We therefore demand action, not excuses. We demand investigation, not political cover. And where criminal responsibility is established, we demand prosecution, not negotiation. Cross River must not return to the politics of fear. Democracy must remain bigger than any individual, party or ambition.”

Cal. South Campaign Violence: C’River Govt Faults Arthur Jarvis, PDP, Threatens Legal Action

Ukorebi Esien  | October 5th, 2026

CALABAR—The Cross River State Government has faulted the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, and the party over claims surrounding the disruption of its campaign activities in Calabar South, giving them 48 hours to retract an earlier publication and apologise to Governor Bassey Otu or face possible legal action.

Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, stated this on Monday during a press briefing in Calabar, where he addressed recent political developments and the controversy surrounding the PDP's consultative activities in Calabar South.

Cobham challenged the account linking the violence to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the government's understanding of the incident pointed instead to internal disagreements within the PDP and its factions.

He said the government had examined information from stakeholders and questioned the claim that the incident was orchestrated by APC supporters.

According to him, there was no camera evidence he had seen showing an APC member at the centre of the violence, while he alleged that the incident was connected to disagreements within the opposition party.

The Commissioner also dismissed as unfounded a separate publication attributed to Archibong alleging that Governor Otu had instructed the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South not to receive the PDP candidate.

Cobham said he personally contacted the Paramount Ruler, who, according to him, denied receiving such an instruction from the governor. He further claimed that Archibong subsequently apologised and indicated that the publication should be taken down.

The government consequently demanded the retraction of the publication and an unreserved apology to the governor, warning that failure to comply within 48 hours could lead to legal action by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. The government also said the apology should be published in national newspapers.

However, the PDP's account of the October 2 incident differs sharply from that of the government.

Archibong had alleged that suspected hoodlums believed to be supporters of the APC disrupted the party's consultation in Calabar South, with the incident reportedly occurring at the palace of the Paramount Ruler and later at the African Club along Calabar Road.

He said three persons were injured during the disturbance at the palace and were taken to hospital for treatment, while vehicles belonging to members of the PDP consultative team were allegedly damaged during the subsequent incident.

Reports of the incident also said the PDP had notified the police ahead of the consultation and expected security coverage for the exercise. The APC, however, denied responsibility for the violence.

The government did not accept the PDP's attribution of the incident to APC supporters, with Cobham insisting that the circumstances surrounding the violence required a different interpretation.

The Commissioner also raised concerns about the use of social media during the political period, warning that misleading and politically motivated information could further heighten tensions. He said the government was concerned about misinformation and disinformation circulating online.

The competing accounts have placed the circumstances surrounding the Calabar South incident at the centre of an emerging political dispute, with the PDP alleging an attack on its campaign activities and the state government rejecting the APC attribution.

As of the time of the briefing, the government had issued its 48-hour demand for retraction and apology, while warning that legal proceedings could follow if the demand was not met.

Apostle Udosen Warns of Possible Bloodshed in 2027, Urges Nigerians to Protect Their Votes

 Victoria Omini

 CALABAR —As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Senior Pastor of Message Point Assembly, Apostle Dr. Bassey Udosen, has expressed concern over the 2027 general elections, warning of what he described as possible bloodshed while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and protect their votes.

Udosen spoke in an interview marking the Independence Anniversary, where he reflected on the challenges confronting the country, including economic hardship, insecurity, killings, kidnapping and banditry.

Despite the difficulties, the cleric said Nigerians still had reasons to be grateful for the preservation of life and should continue to pray for the nation.

“As much as there is life, we cannot stop telling God thank you. Irrespective of the economy, the killings, kidnapping, banditry and all the things happening, we have to celebrate what God is doing,” he said.

However, Udosen expressed concern about the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections, saying he was worried that the electoral contest could be accompanied by violence in some parts of the country.

The pastor said he believed serious bloodshed could occur during the elections, although he prayed for divine intervention and a peaceful electoral process.

“I am seeing serious bloodshed that is going to take place in Nigeria. I see bloodshed within the states, but I want to pray that God Almighty, in His infinite mercy, will give His children peace,” he said.

He called on churches and Christian leaders to intensify prayers for Nigeria, particularly over insecurity, good governance and the emergence of responsible leadership.

Beyond prayers, Udosen urged Nigerians to take their civic responsibilities seriously, particularly during elections, saying citizens should not allow frustration with the political system or economic hardship to discourage them from voting.

He specifically advised voters not to leave polling units immediately after casting their ballots, but to remain within the bounds of the law and observe the process to ensure their votes are properly accounted for.

“Vote and stay there to protect your vote. Do not vote and leave and go back home. If it is going to take you the whole day, that whole day is worth sacrificing for. Spend that time, defend your vote and choose wisely,” he said.

The cleric also condemned vote buying, particularly the practice of exchanging votes for food, cash and other temporary benefits.

He warned that accepting such incentives could deprive voters of the opportunity to elect leaders capable of addressing the country's long-term challenges.

“How many cups of rice will you continue collecting? Some of you will collect 10 cups of rice and sell your birthright,” he said.

Udosen urged voters to look beyond immediate personal benefits and consider the impact of their electoral decisions on future generations.

According to him, every generation has a responsibility to make sacrifices that will improve the prospects of those coming after it.

He therefore advised Nigerians to examine the character, competence and credibility of candidates before voting, rather than allowing temporary inducements to determine their choices.

On political endorsements, Udosen said he would not publicly support any particular presidential candidate, stressing that, as a clergyman, his responsibility was to pray for all candidates and for the emergence of leadership capable of moving Nigeria forward.

He maintained that the church should remain a father to all and avoid being perceived as partisan in the political process.

While acknowledging the difficulties confronting the country, Udosen urged Nigerians not to lose hope, saying the future of Nigeria would depend not only on those seeking political office but also on the choices citizens make during elections.

He called for a peaceful, credible and responsible electoral process in 2027, urging Nigerians to vote according to their convictions, resist vote buying and remain vigilant throughout the process.