C'River Government to boost Primary Healthcare by ₦5 billion in 2025

CALABAR —Governor Bassey Edet Otu has announced plans to increase 2025 budgetary provisions of the State Primary Healthcare by ₦5 billion. This he said will assist in scaling primary healthcare facilities while expanding the health insurance coverage to accommodate more people.

Otu made the pledge during a visit by the Cross River City IMPACT PROJECT team members. Speaking during th visit, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Asuk expressed deep appreciation for the state government's ongoing support, showcasing how these digital tools will enhance health services across the region.

Dr. Paul Odi, the Project Manager for the Cross River City IMPACT PROJECT, informed that the laptops will streamline health record management and improve monitoring, aiming to boost immunization and healthcare access for all residents.

Dr. Vivian Mesembe, the Director-General of the Primary Healthcare Development Agency, emphasized the project's potential to reduce maternal and child mortality rates while ensuring better healthcare delivery to the state's underserved communities.

Adding that Cross River State's health system has made a major advancement with the donation of the 196 laptops aimed at transforming healthcare delivery across the 196 political wards of the state the ensure proper coverage.

How Abubakar Ewa, C'River State Commissioner died at 61

Ukorebi Esien | January 8, 2025

CALABAR — The Cross River State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Abubakar Robert Ewa, has died at the age of 61.

Mr. Ewa, who passed away this evening under circumstances yet to be confirmed, was confirmed dead at the Arubah Specialist Hospital in Calabar, the Cross River State capital.

Sources close to the late commissioner, who preferred anonymity, revealed that he attended the State Executive Council meeting earlier today. Shortly after the meeting, he reportedly complained of a severe headache and directed his driver to take him to the hospital. Upon arrival, he was placed on oxygen but, tragically, passed away within minutes.

Mr. Ewa had a distinguished career in public service. He previously served as Secretary and later Chairman of the Boki Local Government Council. He also held positions as Special Adviser on Community Relations and Secretary of the Anti-Deforestation Task Force.

He was last seen publicly during the Calavegas victory party held in Calabar to celebrate the band's consecutive wins in the 2024 and 2025 Carnival Competitions.

The news of his passing has sent shockwaves across the state.

More details will be provided as they emerge.

Calavegas Band to Extend Frontiers to C'River Central and Northern Senatorial Districts

By Ukorebi Esien, Calabar

The Calavegas Band, winners of the Carnival Calabar for the second consecutive year, is set to expand its reach to the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts of Cross River State. This strategic move aims to harness talent and promote greater participation in future carnivals, according to High Chief Edem Duke, the band's leader and former Minister of Culture and Tourism.

Speaking during a victory party held at the former Mirage Hotel in Calabar, Duke enumerated the importance of inclusivity in sustaining the band's success and advancing the state's cultural heritage. He emphasized that the extension is part of the band's broader strategy to remain formidable and provide opportunities for young talents across the state.

"We are planning to launch our band in the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts so that when the carnival reaches those areas, we will have representation and also draw talents into the mother carnival at the end of the year," Duke stated.

He explained that decentralizing participation would not only strengthen the carnival's brand but also ensure that all regions of Cross River State are integrated into the state's premier cultural event. "This move will sensitize the people in those areas and foster a sense of inclusion so that we don't isolate any region. Culture is one of our greatest assets, and extending the carnival's influence is in line with the vision of the Governor and Her Excellency," he added.

Sustaining Excellence Through Collaboration

Duke attributed the band's consistent victories to the commitment, creativity, and discipline of its members. He emphasized the band's ability to interpret carnival themes and execute performances with precision, which has set it apart from competitors.

"There is no secret other than committing ourselves to the very best of creative potentials, utilizing personnel effectively, and ensuring our presentation is one amongst equals. This collaboration and intensity of performance will continue to define us," he noted.

Enhancing the Carnival Experience

Reflecting on the success of Carnival Calabar 2025, Duke praised the innovations introduced this year, including the Ikom and Ogoja Carnivals, as well as the Junior Carnival and King and Queen competitions. He stressed the need for early planning, extensive stakeholder engagement, and robust marketing to elevate the event further.

"The content continues to grow, and we must strengthen these initiatives rather than rush into diversification. Each band must aim to exceed its previous performance to meet the expectations of the public," Duke advised.

Supporting Economic Growth

In addition to expanding geographically, the Calavegas Band has begun empowering its members economically. Duke revealed that some band members have been engaged in micro-enterprises, while others are receiving educational sponsorships.

"As we grow, we aim to enable more members through employment opportunities and enterprise development. The carnival is not just about entertainment; it's also about creating sustainable impacts for participants," Duke said.

With these plans, Calavegas Band is poised to not only retain its position as a top contender in Carnival Calabar but also contribute significantly to cultural and economic development in Cross River State.

Nsibidi: A Cultural Renaissance is Key to Its Preservation – Etubom Abasi Eyo Ndem

CALABAR, Cross River State – Dec.30, 2024 Etubom Architect Abasi Eyo Ndem, a renowned Ekpe lord and cultural advocate, has called for a cultural renaissance to revive and preserve Nsibidi, the ancient ideographic writing system indigenous to the Efik, Ejagham, and Igbo people. In an exclusive interview during the maiden Nsibidi seminar held in Calabar, Etubom Ndem emphasized the importance of safeguarding this cultural treasure while leveraging its universal appeal. "Nsibidi is more than symbols; it is a repository of our history, values, and identity," Etubom Ndem stated. He described Nsibidi as a dual system comprising sacred and mundane aspects. While the sacred elements are reserved for initiates of the Ekpe society, the mundane aspects are universal and can be digitized for broader dissemination. He lamented the erosion of cultural values, attributing it to a lack of awareness and the increasing influence of foreign cultures. "Our culture is under threat. If we do not reclaim and protect Nsibidi, we risk losing an integral part of our heritage," he warned. Etubom Ndem also addressed concerns about sharing Nsibidi with the global community without compromising its esoteric traditions. "Every society has secrets. While we can share the mundane aspects of Nsibidi, its sacred dimensions must remain protected. This ensures its sanctity and relevance as a cultural identity," he explained. Highlighting the economic potential of Nsibidi, one of the guest speakers, Dr.Ginigeme Nnochiri a Lecturer University of Calabar, department of fine and applied arts, suggested its application in creative industries, such as fashion and textile design, to promote cultural tourism and create employment opportunities. He called for partnerships with academic institutions, noting that universities like the University of Calabar could play a pivotal role in sustaining Nsibidi through research and curriculum development. Responding to questions about Africa's educational systems before colonialism, another guest speaker, Otuekong Prince, Hogan Bassey, dismissed the narrative that Africans lacked advanced knowledge systems. "Our ancestors were educated in ways that suited their societies. Nsibidi is a testament to this, predating missionary influence by thousands of years," he asserted. The organiser of the Summit, Etubom Eyo Ndem revealed ongoing plans to digitize Nsibidi, ensuring its accessibility to younger generations while preserving its authenticity. "Technology is a tool we must use wisely. By digitizing Nsibidi, we can teach it in schools and share its beauty with the world without diluting its essence," he said. He therefore, called for collaborative efforts among cultural custodians, academics, and government agencies to institutionalize Nsibidi studies and promote it as a symbol of African ingenuity. "Nsibidi is our story. Let us tell it, preserve it, and pass it on to future generations," Etubom Ndem declared. The seminar attracted scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and policymakers, all united by a common goal to celebrate and sustain one of Africa’s oldest writing systems.

Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage: Addressing Recent Allegations and Defending Our Cultural Legacy

CALABAR — The leadership of Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage has noted the allegations and discussions surrounding an incident that allegedly occurred on Target Road in Calabar on 1st January 2025. While we empathize with any individual who has experienced hardship, it is imperative to address the baseless accusations against our movement and clarify our position as an organization dedicated to cultural preservation, not violence or criminality. Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage exists to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Cross River state. Our values are rooted in discipline, unity, and the celebration of tradition. It is unfortunate that isolated acts of indiscipline, which we have no control over, are being used to tarnish the image of an organization that has worked tirelessly to foster cultural pride. Queensley Offiong-Etim Bassey’s spurious and malicious accusations are unsubstantiated and riddled with inconsistencies. For example, she fails to provide evidence that the individuals involved in the alleged incident are bona fide members of Tinkoriko. It is worth noting that the streets are public, and unauthorized persons often exploit our parades for ulterior motives. It is troubling to see that individuals like Queensley, a bitter and malicious and a PDP woman Leader,have publicly faced criticism for substandard services in the past, are attempting to shift attention by fabricating stories. One must not forget the infamous incident on Easter Sunday, 2022, where a dead gecko was found in her afang soup. And incessant occasions were cockroaches and a flies were discovered inher Ekpang nkukwo and Fisherman soup from her “mama-put” establishment. We encourage constructive dialogue rather than the spread of falsehood and abject bestiality, that harm our collective heritage. We,therefore, appeal to members of the public to refrain from baseless accusations and instead partner with Tinkoriko (32 years:1993-2025) is no mean feat. As an organization, Tinkoriko is committed to upholding its legacy as a peaceful and socio-cultural movement. Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage is a beacon of unity and cultural expression in Cross River State. We will not allow malicious narratives to distract us from our mission of preserving and celebrating our heritage. Let us all strive for truth, dialogue, and collective responsibility as we continue to showcase the beauty of our culture to the world. Signed, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo Esq. President Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage Wednesday 1st January 2025

Gov. Otu condoles with his Kwara State counterpart over the death of his Chief of Staff

CALABAR — Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, extends his condolences to his Kwara State counterpart, Malam AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq CON, over the death of his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdukadir Mahe. 

Governor Otu while commiserating with the Government and people of Kwara State on what he described as an irreparable loss, explained that it is from God we come and to Him we shall all return. 

He prayed to Almighty God to console the Governor, the family of the deceased, and the entire Kwarans, granting them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

 

"On behalf of the government and the people of Cross River State, please accept our heartfelt condolences," Gov. Otu said. 

The statement, signed by the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill, stated that the Chairman of Nigeria's Governors' Forum, Malam AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq CON, was in Calabar with his Kogi State counterpart to flag off the 2024 Carnival Calabar when the incident occurred.

Gov. Otu Grants Pardon and Clemency to 45 Prison Inmates: see their names here

CALABAR —In the exercise of his prerogative of mercy, Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has granted unconditional pardon pursuant to Section 212 (1) (a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (Amended) to 45 convicts with minor offenses. 

The Governor's action, in the spirit of the new year and the People First Mantra of his administration, was contained in the approval given to the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ededem Ani.

The pardoned inmates were convicted of various offenses ranging from felony, stealing, breaking and entering, assault, threats to life, cultism, armed robbery, illegal entry, logging and unlawful possession, conspiracy, assault and threatening violence, and malicious damage, among a few others. 

Governor Otu explained that it's important to give a second chance to those pardoned and considered reformed, as well as the need to decongest the prison.

The aforesaid list of 45 is as follows: Yahaya Suleman, Odey David, Jeremiah William Etim, Ubong Sunday Francis, Michael Gbenga, Randy Bassey Etu, Ivara Odum, John Ambrose Adecon, Gabriel Eke, Ukeme Godwin Benson, Godwill Delphin Mbey, Monday Ndem, Abraham Elijah, Kelvin Ogbonna, Terlumum Giki, Etim Edet Effiong, Abraham Effiong, Mkpang Efa Eyo, Christopher Uduak Etim, Daniel Bassey Duke, Edet Aququo Edet, Glory Friday James, Joseph Ubi Effiom, Eyo Ewa Eyo, Etim Essien Oku, Elvis Inokojong, Bassey Okon Bassey, Francis Eyo Honesty, Anthony Agbor Lazarus, Christian Amos, Onuwa Ogana Onuwa, Ebin Ita Nsuijon, Samuel Effiong Mark, Daniel Jatto, Raphael Kingsley Ben, Stanley Julius, Wisdom Maduka, Covenant Ebri, Mary Linus Ekpo, Osim Inyang Ejah, Ogar Victor, Udiba Ona Samuel, Ekpenyong Bassey, Effiong Okon, and Chibuike Lucky.

Governor Otu Suspends Traditional Ruler and Entire Council in Calabar

CALABAR – The Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has ordered the immediate suspension of HH (Chief) Okon Archibong Eke, the Village Head of Esuk Utan, along with the entire Esuk Utan Village Council.

The directive, as contained in a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nsa Gill, on January 3, 2025, mandates a thorough investigation into allegations leveled against the suspended chief and council members.

To ensure an unbiased inquiry, the Calabar Municipal Traditional Rulers Council has been tasked with investigating the allegations and submitting its findings and recommendations to the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs within one week.

Additionally, the Obutong Clan Council has been instructed to establish a five-man interim committee to manage the affairs of Esuk Utan Village pending the conclusion of the investigation.

The statement further urged members of the public residing or conducting business in Esuk Utan to maintain normalcy but to cease any dealings with Chief Okon Archibong Eke and his council during the suspension period.

Governor Otu's decisive action underscores his administration's commitment to accountability and transparency in traditional leadership structures across the state.

New Year Message: Otu Preaches Love and Unity to C'Riverians

Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has emphasized national unity and love as the key ingredients for Nigeria's progress. The governor had earlier called on Nigerians to welcome the year 2025 with optimism. 

He added to the message during his New Year celebration with constituents in his ancestral home, Adiabo-Efut. 

He also stressed the importance of religious and political tolerance as crucial for the country's development.

Otu urged Nigerians to love and pray for their leaders at all levels, highlighting the country's potential to become a global leader with its abundant resources. 

In his words, "genuine love, forgiveness, and unity are essential for individual and national success".

Reassuring Cross Riverians of his commitment to the state's prosperity, Otu expressed gratitude for their support and promised to fulfill his campaign promises.

He outlined plans to create jobs for unemployed youth, provide essential services, and build upon previous administrations' achievements.

The governor's visit to his hometown has become an annual tradition, allowing him to connect with his constituents and political leaders. This year, he was honored with the traditional title of UFORO IBOKU, Esit Edik, by the Creek Town Central Traditional Rulers Council, recognizing his impactful leadership within the first 19 months of his administration.

The council cited the governor's agro-industrialization program and the ongoing construction of the Adiabo-Creek Town-Ikoento road as key achievements. His wife, Bishop Eyoawan Bassey Otu, was also honored with the title Utuenikang IBOKU Esit Edik for her dedication to girl-child education and development.

Governor Otu's message of optimism, unity and love resonates strongly as Nigeria navigates complex challenges. His commitment to his constituents and his vision for a prosperous Cross River State are clear, setting the tone for a year of progress and collaboration. 

Cultural groups and rural dwellers were given access to the governor's compound, where they were allowed to display, entertain, and exchange pleasantries with the first family. The wife of the governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, gave out food items such as bags of rice, beans, garri, tomatoes, salt, clothing materials, and cash gifts among others to the various groups.

Birotojob CEO Calls on Nigerians to Embrace Technology for a Prosperous 2025

Lagos, Nigeria – January 3, 2025

As Nigeria enters a new year, the CEO of Birotojob, Mr. Okwuosa Charles Chinedu, has issued a clarion call for Nigerians to embrace the ongoing technological revolution and equip themselves with skills to thrive in the global tech ecosystem.

This was made know. In a New Year message issued by Mr. Chinedu who emphasized the transformative power of technology in shaping the nation's future and outlined Birotojob's plans to empower individuals through world-class IT training programs.

"In this era of rapid technological advancement, Nigeria must not be left behind," he declared. "At Birotojob, we are committed to equipping Nigerians with the tools to excel in the global tech industry. Our mission is to create opportunities and foster innovation through advanced training and education."

To achieve this, the Birotojob Institute has announced the launch of three specialized cohorts in 2025, offering cutting-edge training in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing, and software development. Each program is tailored to provide participants with practical skills and real-world applications aligned with global industry standards.

Mr. Chinedu urged Nigerians, especially the youth, to seize these opportunities. "The future belongs to those who are prepared," he remarked. "By embracing technology and acquiring advanced skills, Nigerians can unlock limitless possibilities for growth, innovation, and success."

He also reiterated Birotojob's unwavering commitment to driving positive change through education and skill development. "We are not just building careers; we are shaping the future of Nigeria. We invite all Nigerians to join us in this transformative journey," he added.

Over the years, Birotojob has been a pioneer in IT education and innovation, empowering countless Nigerians with technical expertise and career opportunities. The launch of the 2025 cohorts underscores the institute's determination to maintain its leadership position in advanced IT training.

As Nigeria begins 2025 with renewed hope, Birotojob's vision of a tech-savvy nation stands as a beacon of possibility. Nigerians are encouraged to visit the Birotojob website or contact their offices for more information about the upcoming training programs.