Saturday, 2 November 2024

LG POLLS: Cross River NDDC Rep Advocates for Massive Turnout, Urges Electorates to Trust CROSIEC


Chief Orok Otu Duke




The Cross River state NDDC Representative Rt. Hon. Orok Duke has admonished Cross Riverians to turn out enmass to vote for their preferred candidates in the November 2 local government elections in the state.

Duke who made the call while speaking with newsmen urged Cross Riverians to see this as an opportunity to elect credible leaders who will foster development and effective representation at the grassroot level.

According to him, "the wards and local governments are the strata of government closest to the grassroot and represents the foundation of governance, so the need to elect credible leaders at that level cannot be overemphasized".

While calling on the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) to ensure a level playing ground for all candidates, he encouraged electorates to trust the electoral umpire to deliver a free, fair and credible election.

He said: "while going out on Saturday to exercise your franchise, ensure to conduct yourself peacefully, adhere to all rules and directives as directed by the umpire and refrain from any form of electoral malpractice and violence aimed at marring the electoral process.

"CROISEC have given us their word that the process will be free, fair and just to all parties involved, let's take them for their word as we come out to vote" Duke said.

Elections to elect chairmen and councilors into the 18 local government councils and 193 wards in Cross River State is scheduled to hold this Saturday October 2 across the state.


NDDC Distributes Boats To Flood Victims in Riverine Communities of Cross River, Being Second Tranche Palliatives





The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has delivered over thirty (30) pieces of Boats across the Riverine Communities in Cross River State. This, according to the Commissioner representing Cross River State in the NDDC Board, is to cushion the debilitating impact of severe floods that affected livelihoods, especially in the rural communities. 

Addressing pressmen in Calabar, the State Capital, Otuekong Orok Duke, disclosed that the boats are part of relief materials earlier distributed to give respite to those displaced by the recent floods in the State. 

" _These boots are part of the Palliatives for flood victims that were supposed to be sent three months ago.  They were not delivered, so I had to order for them And insisted on having the Cross River state quota sent, which they did. We were still awaiting the cassava processing machines which have not yet come. We got these boats for about four months now, so we just felt that it was necessary to let the beneficiaries have them, though they are not enough, just thirty boats."_

According to the NDDC Rep, although several communities were affected by the flood, the few available have been shared among beneficiaries particularly in the South. 

"We just thought it wise to let those in the riverine areas down South here to have them. These include Esuk Atu, Obufa Esuk Orok, Idang, Anantigha/Jebbs, Esiere Ebom, Duke Town then Volvo Market, Lemna beach in Calabar municipality. But We've also sent 10 to Adiabo and Odukpani to cover Adiabo and Ikot Offiong Beaches.

This is just a token from NDDC, which are part of the Palliatives earlier distributed. So, I think it is extremely timeous now to share, now  that people are up and about, excited over elections and all, going around campaigning, electioneering and all.  So I said well, let us throw in a little bit of it, we don't know when they may bring the cassava processing machines, so, that's just it,"  he added. 

Responding to questions on whether or not l Cross River State has had her fair share of projects and programs of the NDDC, Orok Duke responded;

"For you to have your own fair share, you must know what and what has been going on. For me, it is work in progress. The damage that was done was so deep that we need to unravel a lot of other things.

Of course, you know, our budget for this year is about 1.9 trillion. The board hasn't approved the loan of 1 trillion which the president had approved. So, we don't have our budget handy. After signing the budget and passing it into law, they will now remit it to the board to start implementation. Of course, you know when the Budget is not passed on time you are at liberty to spend a maximum of 50% of the previous years budget. That is what we have been using to tide along, pay staff salary and all. So we cannot fathom out how much damage has been done to Cross River State over the years, it is still work in progress.

Normally, when you want to get the data and figure people will resist. But I pray that we get through with this because, by 26th of November, we will be One year in office. God willing, we will be able to make it and then ask for our fair share of what is going on. We pray that by the time we finish with the new remedial measures we have benefitted from all that cross river production zero, data zero.
By the time they finish with the remedial measures that we' wil benefit as a result of our oil wells, we'll be able to improve our stands in the NDDC and get more from it", he concludes. 

Recall that recently, the NDDC had distributed streetlights and other incentives. The Commission is also transparently implementing programs that hitherto,  surreptitious implementation without due process, diligence and equitable distribution.
P4P Calls for Peaceful LG Elections in C'River, Urges Voter Engagement






CALABAR—As Cross River State gears up for the upcoming local government elections, Partners for Peace (P4P) in the Niger Delta, Cross River State Chapter, has called on citizens to embrace peace, unity, and active participation to ensure a smooth electoral process and sustainable development.

In a statement released ahead of the elections, P4P emphasized the importance of civic engagement and peaceful conduct as essential pillars for progress and good governance. Speaking on behalf of the organization, Cross River State Coordinator Ukorebi Esien enumerated the critical role of citizens in choosing leaders committed to the needs and aspirations of the community.

"This election is an opportunity for Cross Riverians to make their voices heard and elect leaders who represent their aspirations. We urge all eligible voters to come out and exercise their franchise, as every vote has the power to shape the future of our communities," Ukorebi said.

P4P encouraged voters to remain confident in the electoral process and resist any discouragement from rumors or doubts. The organization stressed that eligible voters should fully participate in the democratic process, trusting in the power of their vote to effect positive change in leadership.





Addressing the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSSIEC), the Network called for a steadfast commitment to upholding transparency and fairness throughout the election. "We urge CROSSIEC to prioritize the integrity of the election process, ensuring that every vote cast counts and every voice is heard," the statement read. This, P4P noted, would bolster public trust and confidence, motivating continued civic participation in future elections.

In a strong plea to all stakeholders, candidates, and their supporters, P4P reiterated that violence undermines the essence of democracy and stalls community development. The network emphasized that peace is a collective choice and urged everyone involved to prioritize it.

"Peace is a choice—let us all choose peace, vote responsibly, and build the future we desire for Cross River State," the statement concluded. 



Friday, 1 November 2024

Anam Pledges All Inclusive Administration For Economic Growth





The All Progressives Congress, APC Chairmanship candidate for Calabar Municipality in  the November 2 Local Government Election in Cross River State, Apostle James Anam says his administration would create an enabling environment for residents of the state capital to actualize their potential irrespective of primordial sentiments once he is elected into office.


Anam, who spoke with journalists on Thursday while reviewing  his campaign tour ahead Saturday's election disclosed that if elected, he would  leverage the  prevailing robust relationships amongst the various ethnic groups in Calabar Municipality to promote peaceful coexistence to guarantee a conducive atmosphere for seamless implementation of government policies and programmes designed to upscale the living standard of the people.


According to him, "My foray into the chairmanship race is neither coincidental nor accidental. It's a divine agenda that was waiting for God's timing. Our blueprint is expected to promote self-reliance through vocational training, rehabilitation of public primary schools to restore the eroding glory of these schools which produced most of us including my humble self, as well as equipping our health centers for effective delivery of affordable and accessible healthcare"

"Our primary schools are now regarded as the last resort for the common man who cannot afford the cheapest nursery schools. This is despite the avalanche of competent teachers which abound in the schools. We will alter this erroneous perception"

 Anam stated the focal point of his administration  would be carefully tailored to complement the state government's efforts geared towards rejigging the state to upscale the tempo of socio-economic development across all spectrums of the economy.

"By the grace of God, I have been around the system for a long time, having served as a Councillor for my ward between 2007 and 2010. I have worked with virtually all the Council's Chairmen since 1999. Being a familiar terrain, I have the experience to make a huge difference.

"We will change the negative narratives about local government. For instance, Calabar is globally celebrated as the birthplace of football, but unfortunately, apart from Terem Moffi, we don't have any Cross Riverian across the national teams. We will collaborate with relevant stakeholders to introduce schools sports amongst primary and secondary schools in the Municipality. 


"The vision is to create a platform for our budding sporting athletes to express their talents for possible recognition. We have water around us yet we don't have swimmers making waves at National Sports Festivals. 


"Etim Esin, James Etokebe, Isong Isang, John Okon Ene, Etta Egbe, Leo Moffi, etc were all discovered from school competitions. We are reclaiming our lost glory. It's unfortunate that once Local government is mentioned, what readily comes to mind, is taxes, levies, and enforcement. Together, we are changing the narratives"



" We have a well-thought-out skill acquisition program to equip our youths with skills meant to promote self-reliance. We will work with relevant MDAs to re-orientate our youths toward embracing vital skills like carpentry, tiling, electrical installations, aluminum fabrication, computer repairs and maintenance, phone repairs, ICT, agriculture, poultry, fish farming, etc. We are lagging behind when it comes to these areas. We have to brace up"


"Our administration would explore viable options to boost our IGR and block leakages. We need to  think outside the box to run our youth-focused agenda rather than depending solely on statutory allocation"


On plans for food security, Anam posited" The Council used to have vast hectares of land at Bakoko where palm oil, pineapples, cassava, vegetable melon, and other cash crop were cultivated for annual agricultural trade fairs amongst the 18 local government councils. We will reinvent this laudable initiative, expand it, and get our youths involved"


He stated further that he will ensure a good sanitary state of markets in the metropolitan city,  revealing that the Council under his watch will work assiduously with relevant government agencies to keep Marian, Akim, Edim Otop, Ikot Ishie, and Eight Miles Markets clean and conducive for business while curtailing multiple taxation.



Reacting to a  recent video making rounds on social media where he purportedly hinted that strangers will not benefit from his government if elected, Anam described the insinuations as the handiwork of mischief makers.

In his words:" By the grace of God, I am a pastor of a Church comprising Nigerians and even non-Nigerians legally residing in Calabar. I am an in-law in our sister state, Akwa Ibom.  Does it mean I will segregate my in-laws, friends, or church members because I am in government, thereby straining a relationship cultivated over several decades? Our distractors are bereft of ideas for hindering this divine project."During my brief stint as Director General of the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, I ensured our brothers and sisters from other states dwelling among us were captured in the palliatives distribution list. From every angle,
  we have historical affinities that can't be sacrificed on the altar of politics.

"Besides, the present economic situation affects all of us, irrespective of ethnic background, so why should democratic dividends or government interventions meant to address such stress be predicated on ethnic coloration? We can't play such a card because it's not in our DNA. Let's stop molding mountains out of anthills, it doesn't add up. Anam stated
Police Enforce Movement Restriction Ahead of LG Elections in C'River
 



 

 November 1, 2024

CALABAR — Ahead of the Local Government Elections scheduled for November 2, the Cross River State Police Command has announced a statewide restriction of movement across all 18 local government areas. This restriction, aimed at ensuring peaceful and secure elections, will be effective from midnight on November 2 until 6:00 pm the same day.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Augustine Grimah, PSC, FCAI, disclosed that the restriction is a precautionary measure to create an environment where citizens can exercise their voting rights without disruption. He emphasized that only individuals on essential duties, including medical personnel, accredited election observers, and security officers, will be permitted to move within the restricted areas.

"The Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, will strictly enforce this restriction to guarantee the safety of lives and property throughout the election period," stated CP Grimah.

The Commissioner further appealed to citizens to comply with the directive and refrain from any activities that could disturb the peace or jeopardize the election's success. "Our primary goal is to facilitate a peaceful and credible electoral process. We ask for the public's cooperation to ensure a smooth and orderly election," he added.

The Police Command urged residents to stay law-abiding, promising robust security presence to uphold a safe and orderly environment during the election day.

SP Ugbo Irene, the Police Public Relations Officer, released the statement on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, reaffirming the commitment of the Cross River State Police Command to maintaining order and security throughout this crucial democratic process.


Etta Urges Constituents to Prioritize Peace and Development in LG Elections

Ukorebi Esien | 1st November 2024
Rt. Hon. Davies Etta
Deputy Leader, CRSHA





CALABAR — Ahead of the Local Government elections, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, Member Representing Abi State Constituency and Deputy Leader of the Cross River State House of Assembly, has called on constituents to conduct themselves peacefully as they prepare to cast their votes.

In a statement issued on the eve of the elections, Etta emphasized the importance of the Local Government system as the closest and most impactful tier of governance for the people. He encouraged voters to select leaders with genuine leadership qualities who would address the community's aspirations.

"Local Government is the closest tier of government to us, making it a vital component of our democratic system," Etta remarked. "Therefore, it is crucial that we choose leaders with true leadership qualities—individuals who will sincerely represent our collective hopes and aspirations."

Etta urged all residents to approach the election process with a focus on peace and unity, stressing that the community's progress should be prioritized above personal or political disagreements. He advised voters to consider the interests of the community and the long-term development goals when making their choices at the ballot box.

"As we engage in this election process, I encourage everyone to prioritize peace and unity in all interactions, whether in the field or in our communities. Let us keep the focus on collective development," he stated. "May our choices tomorrow reflect a shared vision for Development, Peace, and Equity."

The Deputy Leader's message also highlighted the essential role of community involvement in ensuring a positive electoral experience. He emphasized that each vote cast should serve as a step towards advancing the community, securing peace, and achieving equitable representation.

Rt. Hon. Etta's call for a peaceful, development-focused election underscores the need for unity as the people of Abi State and Cross River as a whole prepare to shape their Local Government leadership.

Akamkpa Paramount Ruler Calls for End to Marginalization, Seeks Stakeholders Collaboration to Foster Growth
Ukorebi Esien | 1st November 2024







The Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa Local Government Area, HRM Ophot Agbor Ebani, has urged leaders and stakeholders to prioritize the development of Akamkpa, emphasizing that the local government area has endured long-standing marginalization.

Speaking during a consultative meeting with the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Akamkpa LGA, Chief Felix Akposi, held at his Uyanga


 Palace, the royal father expressed deep disappointment over the neglect faced by the area, despite its status as the food basket of the state.

The monarch who offered prayers for Chief Akposi's successful campaign, called on him to collaborate with the governor and other stakeholders to address the injustices Akamkpa has faced if he is elected into office. He added that Akamkpa has produced capable leaders who could represent the senatorial district or even the state as governor but has been repeatedly denied such opportunities due to discrimination and marginalization.

Speaking further, the paramount ruler advised local politicians to maintain the zoning system in Akamkpa's political landscape, which he noted has allowed for a balanced distribution of power and resources across constituencies and wards, fostering peace and unity within the LGA.

Expressing gratitude to the governor for selecting Chief Akposi as the APC candidate, the royal father called the choice a unifying decision and encouraged Akposi to continue promoting unity and progress for Akamkpa.

Earlier on, Chief Felix Akposi had  thanked the paramount ruler, seeking his blessings as he embarks on his campaign tour through Uyangha and beyond. He assured the monarch and other clan heads present that, if elected, he would work closely with the traditional rulers' council to ensure the dividends of democracy reach the people. He pledged to restore light and life to Akamkpa.

The visit concluded with the traditional breaking of kola nuts and spiritual prayers for all candidates of the party in attendance.
PDP Chapter Chairman in Cross River State Defects to APC, Leading Mass Exodus Across Party Lines
Pastor Raymond Asuquo and his supporters defecting to the APC recently in Akamkpa 




To herald a political shift within Akamkpa,  nay Cross River State, Pastor Hon. Raymond C. Asuquo, the former Chapter Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Akamkpa, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside a formidable wave of followers, signaling a strategic blow to the PDP. Asuquo's defection, announced at the APC's campaign grand finale at the Akamkpa Local Government Council reflects disillusionment with the internal workings of the PDP and his aspirations to realign his political efforts for local and national impact.

Pastor Asuquo, who served as PDP Chapter Chairman from April 2019 until the last Congress, was well-regarded for his instrumental role in party coordination, having also served as the coordinator for all chapter chairmen across the state during the first two years of his tenure. Known for his adept strategic planning, Asuquo orchestrated key party activities, working tirelessly to strengthen the PDP's influence. However, the pervasive internal discord and what he described as a "constitutional disconnect" within the party ultimately led to his decision to depart.

Asuquo further lamented the absence of a robust reconciliation mechanism within the PDP, claiming it had become "rudderless" under the ineffective leadership of the current state executive. He highlighted a disconnect between the party's national and state directives and its foundational principles, stressing that the leadership's operational methods have strayed far from the party's constitution. "The PDP's framework has diverged from its founding values, making it increasingly difficult to fulfill the party's mission," Asuquo noted.

Beyond procedural grievances, Pastor Asuquo emphasised the primacy of "local politics" as a driving factor in his decision. "Politics is local," he stated, underscoring his desire to unite with fellow Akamkpa natives, respected political allies, and notable figures to propel both his community and the nation forward. By joining the ruling APC, Asuquo believes he can better serve his people and make impactful contributions that align with his vision for sustainable local and state development.

The dynamic grassroots politician, who previously served as a councillor representing Uyanga Ward in Akamkpa's 4th Legislative Council and held the position of deputy leader, expressed optimism about his new political platform. Asuquo also acknowledged his past role as the co-founder of the PDP Rescue Mission International, an organisation aimed at salvaging the PDP from what he saw as inevitable decline. Despite his best efforts to support the party's revival, he conceded that internal forces stymied progress, making his continued loyalty untenable.

The mass defection saw key figures from various political affiliations join Asuquo's ranks, including prominent Labour Party members and other PDP stalwarts from different wards. According to reports, numerous influential local figures who have grown frustrated with PDP's leadership have joined the APC, signaling a tectonic shift in Akamkpa's political landscape. The once-diverse political affiliations within the local government now appear to coalesce around the APC, setting the stage for a stronghold in the state.

As the former liaison officer for Hon. Chief Daniel E. Asuquo, a former member of the House of Representatives, Pastor Asuquo's move to the APC underscores his vision for consolidating efforts with influential players. He conveyed confidence that the APC's inclusiveness and forward-looking approach present the best path to meet Akamkpa's evolving needs.

Observers of Cross River politics view Asuquo's defection as more than symbolic; it portends a seismic shift in the state's political dynamics, as numerous PDP supporters are expected to follow his lead. The recent wave of defections hints at the potential dissolution of the PDP's stronghold in Akamkpa, where local sentiment now favours the APC as the party poised to drive meaningful change.

With his exit, Asuquo issued a final rebuke to the PDP, stating, "This exodus is a testament to the need for change. For those of us committed to real progress, the APC offers a platform for genuine leadership." His defection, alongside a substantial cohort, marks a turning point in the state's political trajectory, positioning the APC as the vanguard of Cross River State's future.




Tuesday, 29 October 2024

Understanding Governor Bassey Otu 's People First Mantra And The Economic Importance Of The Bakassi Deep Seaport Port.
Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River Satate



Edem Darlington  | 28th October 2024


On May 29, 2023, when the current Governor  Bassey Edet Otu took over office as the fourth democratically elected governor of Cross River State in the current fourth republic, expectations were high and the yearnings of Cross Riverians were almost felt. 

Governor Bassey Otu arrived at the rostrum of leadership of the state with a burden of over 4.5 million Cross Riverians who at the time, had lost hope in public governance, it became pertinent for citizens to be reassured to have faith in public governance and importantly,,  the need for the self worth and value of  Cross Riverians to be raised. The governor understood the challenges and promptly came up with the now popular "People First" Mantra

The mantra meant that once again, citizens could have confidence in the government, it meant that government was ready to make the welfare and well-being of citizens a priority, it meant that the value and self worth of citizens will be considered in all decisions of government and above all, it meant that the governor was going to put the people first in all his consideration, including his programs and policies. Little wonder  why  during his inaugural speech, Governor Bassey Edet Otu had openly committed " Dear Cross Riverians, I commit to you and my God, to at all times, put you first in all my considerations " 

About a year and six months after his swearing-in, , the governor has proven that he is a man of his words. His programs and policies have so far shown that the people are his priority. For example, he came in to meet a backlog of unpaid gratuity of pensioners of over 10 years running into several billions of naira. Today, several of our pensioners are smiling to the bank to get their reward after many years of sacrifice and service to the state. 

In the area of infrastructure including the provision of basic amenities good roads, access to basic healthcare facilities, security of lives and properties etc, the governor has performed incredibly well. Only last year, the governor, through the State ministry of education,  facilitated the payment of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) for over 11,000 secondary school students of Cross River origin amounting to over  N400 million . If all these are not putting the People First, I wonder what it is. 

Recently, the governor was able to secure about $3.5 billion funding for the Bakassi Deep Seaport. It is important to emphasize that this is about the first funding facility that the African financial giant  AFREXIM bank would put out for a sub-national. What this means is that the integrity, policy and programs, including the obvious  financial prudence of governor Bassey Edet Otu has been tested, tried and proven to be genuine by one of the global financial financiers and advisors. 

The economic implications of this laudable initiative is that, the state will become a powerful player in the maritime  sub-sector of Nigeria with an open market in  the  southern -south and south east of Nigeria, Including mopping up the financial benefits around the entire maritime business in the Lake Chad basin, and the Gulf of Guinea. Apart from the main transaction of major key players in the maritime  sector, the massive value-chain, such business comes with, cannot be quantified. The completion and eventual take-off of business activities at the Bakassi Deep Seaport will see the emergence of several other businesses like, fabrication industries, boat maintenance  and repair services, supply of all kind of goods and services etc

Governor Bassey Otu is no doubt, a visionary leader, who is indeed determined to put the people first in all that he does. One can only pray that his visions and policies will be massively supported by the government at the center in order to bring about the much needed prosperity of citizens. 

Edem Darlington is the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Edet of Cross River State

Sunday, 20 October 2024

IFAD Joins C'River Agric Ministry to Celebrate World Food Day 2024
Ukorebi Esien | 19 October 2024

Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Ebekpo and the SPC of IFAD-LIFE ND, Mr Innocent Ogbim inspecting IFAD's stand during the recently held World Food Day in Calabar




CALABAR — The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), through its Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises-Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project, played a prominent role in the 2024 World Food Day celebrations in Cross River State. The event, coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, showcased several activities aimed at addressing food security and sustainability, with IFAD's contributions taking center stage.

Speaking at the event, the State Project Coordinator for IFAD-LIFE ND, Mr Innocent Moses Ogbim acknowledged the critical challenges facing global and local food security, including hunger, climate change, inflation, and insecurity. He emphasized the need for government policies that reflect these realities. He called for increased investment in human capacity development, especially in research and development, which he argued would boost the success of agribusiness initiatives and help alleviate food insecurity.

Highlighting the impact of the IFAD-LIFE ND project, he noted that the initiative has successfully engaged numerous young people in agricultural ventures, contributing to food security and economic empowerment for women and youth in the Niger Delta.

During a panel discussion, experts echoed similar sentiments, stressing that achieving food security and ensuring the right to food requires a sustainable and efficient agricultural system. They pointed out that the state's current focus on subsistence farming limits productivity. Instead, the emphasis should be on improving access to inputs like high-yield crop varieties to increase food production.

One panelist explained, "Food security starts with the availability of food, followed by its accessibility and affordability. Right to food means ensuring that food is safe and nutritious for all." Another added, "We must move beyond the idea of a 'balanced diet' to an 'adequate diet,' ensuring that the food we consume meets our bodies' needs and supports our health." The discussion also highlighted the importance of ongoing government initiatives, such as food fortification, which ensures essential nutrients are available in everyday diets.

In his address, the Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo (KSM), said the theme for this year's celebration, "Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future," was apt, relevant and timely. He noted that it aligns perfectly with the priorities of the administration of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu. Under the "People First" agenda, the governor has emphasized the need for food availability, accessibility, and sustainability to improve the quality of life for all Cross Riverians.

The Commissioner also hinted on some of the state's major agricultural initiatives, including the development of 12,000 hectares for six new cocoa estates and the procurement of 3.5 million sprouted oil palm nuts to support smallholder farmers. Furthermore, the establishment of 2,000 hectares for arable crop production in Odukpani Local Government Area and recent statewide irrigation infrastructure projects were described as significant steps towards year-round food production.

"The governor's leadership is dedicated to improving lives through these transformative agricultural projects," said Ebokpo. "We are united in our efforts to combat hunger, improve livelihoods, and eradicate poverty."

The Commissioner concluded by urging all stakeholders—including agricultural clusters, local governments, and NGOs—to actively support these initiatives, which are crucial to transforming the agricultural landscape of Cross River State and beyond.

Photo Gallery: