Otu's aide celebrate one year in office, presents scorecard

HON. ENYAM, JOSEPH-KELVIN

SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE GOVERNOR ON STUDENT AFFAIRS. 

ONE YEAR IN OFFICE: 

THE JOURNEY SO FAR. 

One year ago, precisely on the 5th Of March, 2024; I was graciously appointed by His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, to serve as Special Assistant, Student Affairs, under the People's First administration; and to commemorate this milestone, I held a special thanksgiving service on Sunday, March 2, 2025. 

I firmly believe that every good and perfect gift comes from God as I took out time to express my deepest gratitude to the Almighty for His protection, grace, divine guidance, and the gift of remarkable individuals who have supported me throughout my leadership journey. 

As I reflect on the past year, I am inspired by the goodwill and support of numerous individuals who have enabled me to excel in my role. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, Sen. (Prince) Governor Bassey Otu  and his dear wife, Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for the opportunity to serve under the People's First administration. I'm particularly grateful for the mentorship I've received from His Excellency over the past 14 years. 

I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to Hon Emmanuel Ironbar  Chief of Staff to the Governor, for his unwavering support, which dates back to my days as a student leader at the University of Calabar. His support, along with that of his wife Dr Virginia Emmanuel  has been invaluable. Additionally, I thank Dr. Barr Ekpenyong Akiba , Special Adviser on General Duties to the Governor, for his remarkable support and guidance all through this years. 

Furthermore, I appreciate the support of the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Anthony Owan Enoh, Hon. Pius Edet, Commissioner for Works and infrastructure, The Vice Chairman, State Planning Commission; Commissioners, particularly Hon. Pius Edet, Commissioner for Works and infrastructure, and many others whose time may not permit me to mention; Special Advisers; DGs of boards; State Chief of Protocol; Members of the Federal Executive Council; and friends across the nation. 

I am also immensely grateful for the partnerships with organizations such as Nugi Group, Cross Riverians in the Diaspora Organization (CRID), JB Farms, YALI Network Cross River Hub, Negroid Haven, among others. 

Over the past year, we have achieved significant milestones, driven by His Excellency the Governor's unwavering commitment to creating a Cross River State where opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of background or socio-economic status. A few of these notable successes within the student community and beyond, includes: 

- Facilitation of full scholarships for 13 students through the Sir AA Odere Foundation.

- Securing internationally funded opportunities for 4 Cross Riverians. 

- Hosting the first ever edition of the Cross River Student Leaders Summit.

- Organizing the first edition of the Cross River Student Entrepreneurship Employability and Mentorship Summit (CR-SEEMS 2024) and a host of other programs in line with His Excellency's deep vision for our dear state. 

Our proposed multidimensional model aims to empower over 6,000 students by 2027, enabling them to become independent while contributing to community development. We have engaged in various national and international collaborations, representing His Excellency the Governor, and fostering partnerships with embassies and numerous organizations to benefit our students. 

Looking ahead, we have several exciting initiatives already planned and ready for execution, some of which are: 

- Launching free JAMB/WAEC tutorials in strategic locations across the state. 

- Hosting the second edition of the Cross River Student Leaders Summit. 

- Organizing the second edition of the Cross River Entrepreneurship employability and mentorship summit (CR-SEEMS)

- Implementing the Campus CEO program in partnership with MEDA across the various campuses in Cross River State. 

- Launching the Campus Talent Program and other programs in line with our core mandate. 

I remain committed to serving our dear state with dignity and purpose. My passion is driven by my faith in God and His Excellency's commitment to the good of our dear state. We are confident that with such sterling performance, in 2027 general elections they shall be no vacancy and the SWEETNESS WILL  CONTINUE. 

God Bless His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu.

God Bless Cross River State.

How Fubara was almost Impeached today

   

Daure David  | 6th March 2025

PORT HARCOURT — The political landscape in Rivers State has been thrown into turmoil following a Supreme Court ruling that intensified internal divisions within the Martin Amaewhule-led State House of Assembly. The new wave of discord stems from growing calls to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara, with sources indicating that the Assembly is now deeply divided over the matter. 

Tensions within the Assembly came to a 

head during a recent plenary session, when a proposal to extend a 48-hour ultimatum against the governor took an unexpected turn. One lawmaker pushed for immediate impeachment proceedings, but his attempt was met with strong resistance, particularly from his colleague representing the Ijaw ethnic group, who vehemently opposed the move. This sparked 

a heated argument among the lawmakers, revealing the deepening rift within the assembly. 

Adding fuel to the fire, another legislator, seemingly acting on instructions from an influential figure referred to as "Oga'" - believed to be the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike - insisted that the Assembly must follow directives. Amid the escalating tensions, Amaewhule, the Speaker of the House, was forced to grant another 48-hour extension in an attempt to diffuse the situation. 

However, the unrest did not subside. Five lawmakers, reportedly aligned with the FCT Minister, broke away after the plenary fora closed-door meeting, further stoking rumors of a deepening rift within the Assembly. Meanwhile, the remaining lawmakers, including several from the ljaw extraction, expressed concerns that the impeachment bid was not merely an attempt to remove Governor Fubara but rather part of a larger political strategy to bolster the governorship ambitions of Martin Amaewhule, an Ikwerre son from Obio/Akpor. 

The lawmakers from the Ijaw extraction strongly condemned the impeachment move, viewing 

it as a ploy to consolidate power and maintain control within the same political dynasty. They argued that the efforts to impeach Fubara 

were an orchestrated power grab, aimed at undermining the ljaw people's influence in the state's governance. 

As the political crisis continues to unfold, the people of Rivers State are closely monitoring the developments. With key political figures at odds and the fate of the governor hanging in the balance, the next moves by the Assembly members could determine the course of the state's leadership. It remains to be seen who will ultimately "blink" first in this volatile political standoff. 

Railway Project: Government, Investors engage Akamkpa Community Leaders

AKAMKPA — As Cross River State Government makes preparation towards the implementation of the Railway Project cutting through Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, Executive Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, 

hosted leaders of the eight communities affected by the project.

The sensitisation meeting included stakeholders from eight communities in the area, alongside representatives of the Cross River State Government and Grand Litora, the company partnering on the proposed railway project had the Chairman, represented by the Secretary of Council, Mr. Christian Lawrence Attah.

Attah who spoke on behalf of the chairman of council said; "As a local government council, it is best we reach out to our people in the villages where the railway will be passing through to hear firsthand the plans of the government. Pay attention and advance your argument constructively. Where you don't have clarity, ask questions. Big cities and countries of the world today started little by little through various developmental projects, which agrees with the adage, Rome was not built in a day," he stated.

Speaking on the significance of the railway project, Mr. Obase Etaba, a Director in the Ministry of Lands noted the immense opportunities it presents, particularly in improving connectivity across the expansive state. He reassured stakeholders that due compensation would be given to landowners affected by the project. "As you know, we can't embark on a project of this magnitude without meeting the owners of the land. These lands are not dormant; various activities may already be going on there. We are here to give you the assurances that those whose lands are affected will be compensated," he said.

Dr. Edoki Isaac, the representative of Grand Litora, explained that the success of the project depends on the cooperation of the villages, as the partnership would generate opportunities for local security services, direct labour, and other benefits. He assured the traditional rulers and stakeholders that the railway's right of way is not as extensive as a highway. "Very soon, surveyors will commence the actual ground survey and mapping of the railway route, following up on the aerial mapping conducted late last year," he added.

The Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa and Chairman of the Akamkpa Traditional Rulers' Council, His Royal Majesty (Ophot) Agbor Ewa Ebani, called for transparency in dealings with the communities. He advised that stakeholders should be fully briefed before operations commence to prevent disputes. "As you go back home, relate this with your subjects. Let them know what is coming, as this awareness will calm the nerves of the people and prevent breakdowns of law and order," he urged.

Representatives from the eight affected communities—Awi, Ayeabam, Mbarakom, Inwang Ukwok, Okom-Ita, Uyanga Model Town, Iwuru, and Ojor—unanimously accepted the project. However, they requested that the railway design include stations within their communities to maximise the project's benefits. They emphasised that if this was not originally considered, it should be factored into the final plans.

The proposed railway project is set to commence at Adiabo in Odukpani Local Government Area and terminate in Obudu LGA in the northern senatorial district, aiming to ease the transportation of goods, passengers, and other courier services across the state.

"Na small small juju and Gossips dey Keep us for ground"- Ezama Laments C'River's National Backwardness

Ukorebi Esien | 4th March 2025

A former Special Adviser on Education to the Cross River State Government, Castro Ezama, has expressed deep concerns over the state's political disunity and its impact on securing federal attention and resources.

In a widely circulated social media post, Ezama speaks on the recent visit of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, alongside Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Udom Emmanuel to the Presidential Villa, where they jointly presented the state's Arise Agenda to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ezama noted that despite Akwa Ibom being a People's Democratic Party (PDP) stronghold, its leaders have set aside political differences to promote the state's development at the national level. He commended the maturity displayed by Senate President Akpabio and his successor, Udom Emmanuel, stating that their ability to collaborate serves as a lesson in unity.

However, he lamented that Cross River State has yet to demonstrate similar cohesion, pointing out that rather than fostering collective progress, the political landscape is dominated by division and in-fighting.

"Our state is the headquarters of illicit gossips and hatred," Ezama wrote. "Small small juju here and there is not even helping matters. Dress well in Calabar and walk past, dem go use mouth destroy you. How do you expect our state to pierce the center and get our due with this growing hatred one for another?"

He further observed that key political figures from Cross River who have access to influential federal power brokers appear reluctant to facilitate opportunities for more Crossriverians. He cited Senate President Akpabio's relationship with prominent Cross River politicians such as Rt. Hon. Orok Duke and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who are currently engaged in a political battle over the state's 2027 Senate race.

Ezama opined that fears of political sabotage have made it difficult for leaders to build a united front that could advance Cross River's interests in Abuja. He drew parallels with the strained relationship between Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and his perceived opponents in Cross River, as well as past incidents involving Chief Akin Ricketts and his association with former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi.

The former IPAC chairman argued that Cross Riverians must prioritize unity over personal rivalries if the state is to gain meaningful federal recognition and benefits. He called for a movement to reposition the state at the center of national politics.

"If our unity level is up to 50 percent, then we can try something good for ourselves; else, we will continue to write," he warned.

His call for action has sparked discussions across social and political circles, with many echoing the need for a collective push toward securing Cross River's rightful place at the federal level.

Hope Waddell @130: School Regains Cambridge Examination Centre Status

Ukorebi Esien | 4th March 2025

CALABAR - Hope Waddell Training Institute has regained its status as a Cambridge Examination Center. this was disclosed by the National President of Hope Waddle Old Students Association during a press briefing recently in Calabar to mark the school's 130 years Anniversary celebration. Speaking to Journalist shortly after the world press Conference, Ephraim noted that the School had once lost its right to administer the examination but with the help of the Old Students Association, the right have been restored. the out going President informed that Cambridge exams in Nigeria include the Cambridge A Level, Cambridge O Level, and Cambridge IGCSE and are offered by the University of Cambridge Examination Board and moderated by the British Council. Students who sit the A level examination can gain direct entry into 200 level at universities in Nigeria and abroad. "We used to have a Cambridge examination centre here in this institution where people used to come and sit for their examination, suddenly we lost it probably due to poor facilities. Let me announce that Hope Waddell Training Institute is now a Cambridge examination centre. If any of you is old and cannot afford to come to school to sit with young people to take lectures, you can come here and register and come for examination." Ephraim Stated. Speaking further, the President disclosed that the Association has launched a N1billion Legacy Fund that will be used by the old boys for the sponsorship of indigent and brilliant students warming up to sit for JAMB and WAEC examinations so that they can proceed to university. Adding that the fund will also assist the old boys in fixing some of the dilapidated infrastructure that needs urgent attention or upgrade within the school. Touching on developmental Impact by the Old Students Association, the President noted that the Association have contributed immensely towards reviving the school. According to him, the association through its various Classes and Chapters have repaired and equipped several Laboratories in the school, the construction of a 500 sitting arena in the school football pitch and the building of a Hall of Fame that will house ancient Artifacts and other items thus making the school a tourist site. The 130th Anniversary celebration which kicked off yesterday will witness several activities including Novelty Football Matches, Cricket games, Award and Dinner Night, Visit to the Orphanage, Medical Outreach etc

Ajah Francis Sets New Records in Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency

CALABAR —The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Cross River State, Hon. Chief Ajah Francis Ajah, mni, has achieved a historic milestone by graduating from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) as part of Senior Executive Course 46. This accomplishment makes him the first civil servant from Abi Local Government Area (LGA) and the second individual from the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency to complete this prestigious program.

Established in 1979, NIPSS serves as Nigeria's premier policy think-tank, focusing on research and learning to develop top-tier technocrats capable of formulating and implementing innovative policies critical for national development.

Hailing from Ebom in Abi LGA, Hon. Ajah is a seasoned banker, politician, and scholar. He holds an array of academic qualifications, including a Higher National Diploma in Accountancy, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management, a Master of Science in Accountancy, and a Master in Business Administration. Professionally, he is an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, the Certified Institute of Cost Management, and the Nigerian Institute of Management.

Throughout his career, Hon. Ajah has held various significant roles, such as Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State and, currently, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Finance. He also imparts knowledge as a part-time lecturer at Arthur Javis University and the University of Cross River State. His involvement extends to international projects, having served as the United Nations and World Bank Sub-Component Coordinator for the State Governance and Capacity Building Project and the State and Local Governance Reforms in Calabar. Additionally, he has been a member of the State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability program and the State-Based Social Accountability and Enabling Reforms program, anchored by the World Bank, IMF, Federal Ministry of Finance, and Debt Management Office.

Hon. Ajah's early engagement in governance is evident from his time as a Councilor and Deputy Leader of the Abi Local Government Legislative Council. His recent graduation from NIPSS not only shows his commitment to personal and professional development but also sets a new benchmark for civil servants in the state.

Canaan Queens Record Remarkable Win at Ongoing African Table Tennis Championship

CALABAR — The Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar which is representing Nigeria at the ongoing African Clubs Championship in Tunisia have secured a remarkable victory against the Challengers from Madagascar.

This comes after beating Grappes d'Or de Grombelia of Tunisia in the last match.

Canaan Queens was selected to represent the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) in the 2025 African Clubs Championship holding in Tunis from 22nd to 24th February 2025.

Reacting to the win, the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh hailed the Canaan Queens for their resounding victory so far at the tournament.

He thanked the state governor for his support to the team while expressing confidence that Cannan queens will make the state as well as the country proud.

The Canaan Queens are gearing up for their next match against Petrojet of Egypt later today.

Court Grants Bail to Crypto Entrepreneur, Police Defy Order, Keep Him in Custody

By NSAN NDOMA-NEJI, Calabar

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to embattled cryptocurrency entrepreneur Obol Jesam Michael after  spending three weeks in police detention. However, despite the court's directive, the police have reportedly refused to release him, keeping him at an ex-SARS facility.

Presiding over the case, Justice M.A. Madugu ruled in favor of Michael's bail after the police failed to present any justification for his continued detention during a hearing on the enforcement of his fundamental rights.

Accordingly, the Court ordered that the crypto entrepreneur be released forthwith without any form of re-arrest by the police.

In suit No: FCT/HC/CV/14/2025 and motion No: FCT/HC/BW/M/139/2025 between Obol Jasam Michael (applicant) and Nigeria police Force, inspector general of police, DCP Okezie Chikezie (Anti-fraud section FCID) Ezekiel Okporante Stella Chinenye Onigbe, IGP monitoring unit and five others as ( respondents).

The order dated February 19, 2025 reads," Upon reading the motion on notice along with accompanying affidavit of Florence Michael Ubo including written address and exhibit filed along with the application. 

"And upon hearing E. A. Esin (Esq), with him Sam John Usani counsel to the claimant the court hereby restrained the 1st,2nd,3rd,4th,5th ,8th, and 9th respondents from re-arresting and detaining Obol Jesam Michael without recourse to the Court. 

"The court also ordered the 1st,2nd,3rd,4th,5th ,8th, and 9th respondents from re-arresting and detaining Obol Jesam Michael without recourse to the Court. 

But in a swift reaction to the issue, Counsel to respondent, Obono Obla commenting on the issue, alleged that the order to release the applicant was served had accordingly been served on the Inspector General of Police and all Police officers involved in the matter, but they refused to obey it. 

"The police in a fragrant demonstration of lawless rather took him to the headquarters of the EFCC and sought to hand him over to the EFCC in a desperate bid to frustrate the execution of the order to release him forthwith. 

"But, the EFCC authorities refused to take over the matter and made it clear to the police that it should obey the court order to release him. 

"The police then removed Jesam Michael from their detention facility in Maitama, where he had been kept for the past three weeks to their facility in the former SARS where he is still being kept despite the order by the court that he should be released". Obla alleged.

Obla alleged that sureties produces by the applicant to facilitate his client bail were chased away by the police even though the sureties met the bail conditions.

Reacting to the issue in a telephone conversation with our correspondent , the police investigating officer one CSP Mohammed stated that he is not on the right position to speak on the issue as there are other superior authorities that ought to respond to the matter.

Measles-Rubella Vaccine: C'River Assures FG of Aggressive Awareness Campaign

Ukorebi Esien | 14th February 2025

CALABAR —The Cross River State Government has assured the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) of its commitment to an aggressive awareness campaign ahead of the introduction of the Measles-Rubella vaccine in Nigeria.

The State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, gave this assurance when a delegation from the agency, led by its Zonal Consultant, Dr. Rock Odeka, paid him an advocacy visit in his office on Friday.

Dr. Ekpang emphasized that the introduction of the Measles-Rubella vaccine marks a significant step in preventing the spread of these diseases, which pose serious health risks, particularly to pregnant women and young children.

"My boss, His Excellency, Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on whose magnanimity I serve as Commissioner for Information, is deeply committed to the healthcare and well-being of Cross Riverians. He will do everything within his power to ensure the success of this initiative," Ekpang stated.

Although the Federal Government has slated the vaccine rollout for October 2025, the commissioner noted that the state would begin awareness creation immediately to encourage public acceptance and ensure residents take ownership of the initiative.

Dr. Ekpang also commended the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, led by Dr. Vivian Mesembe Otu, and its partners, including the World Bank, for their recent support. He highlighted that the donation of 196 laptops to health officers for digitalizing health records contributed to Cross River being ranked the number one state in routine immunization coverage in Nigeria for 2024.

He further praised the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Mrs. Offiong Ani Offiong, for her impactful leadership, expressing confidence in her ability to mobilize relevant stakeholders for the advocacy campaign.

Early Awareness to Prevent Rejection

In his remarks, Dr. Rock Odeka described the Measles-Rubella vaccine as a "game-changer" and explained that the early awareness campaign was necessary to avoid rejection, similar to what was experienced with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in some quarters.

Offering further insight, he noted that the vaccine is a two-in-one solution designed to prevent both measles and rubella infections.

The State Coordinator of NPHCDA, Dr. Idorenyin Nta, and the State Health Educator, Mrs. Nsa Ekpenyong, emphasized that the vaccine has a high efficacy rate of 95%-100% in clinical trials. According to them, it is usually administered to children between 12-15 months but can also be given to children as young as nine months. It is also recommended for older children, adolescents, and adults, particularly healthcare workers and women of childbearing age.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Ntunkae Offiong Ani Offiong, commended the NPHCDA team for prioritizing an advocacy visit to the state's media office. She assured them of massive public orientation and sensitization on the new vaccine, noting that it was in the best interest of the people.

"As dedicated servants of Cross River State, we are committed to fostering a healthy and prosperous society where people can thrive in harmony with one another and nature," she stated.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rubella infection during pregnancy can cause congenital rubella syndrome, leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth defects. The introduction of the Measles-Rubella vaccine is, therefore, a crucial intervention in safeguarding public health.

C’River Gov. launches new security outfits, distribute over 100 Vehicles

...Special Adviser applauded the initiative.

Cross River State Governor Sen. Bassey Otu today unveiled a new security outfit coded-name 'Operation Okwok' 

When translated properly, 'Okwok' simply means "Honeybee". Consequently, this initiative underscores the governor's administration's commitment to addressing security challenges and fostering a conducive environment for development.

The establishment of 'Okwok' is a strategic and critical response to all forms of criminality by providing a robust framework for maintaining peace and order.

Prioritizing the safety of lives and property, Governor Otu's administration is laying the foundation for economic growth, social cohesion, and improved quality of life for its citizens.

Governor Otu has severally emphasized that security is a top priority for his administration, recognizing that stability is essential for meaningful and sustainable development. 

The launch event in Governor's office complex Calabar was attended by several prominent figures who endorsed the initiative, reflecting broad support across different sectors.

An array of dignitaries has applauded the initiative, indicating that the outfit is a pacesetter.

For Mr Morphy Adoga, the Special Adviser, Projects/Programs Monitoring and Evaluation, "This is a great achievement for this administration and commitment in the area of security in the State, it is commendable, kudos to the Governor for such a giant stride

#DPPME MEDIA