Okoi, Abini Thomas Emerges NACRISS WW President-Elect

Victoria Omini | 22nd May 2025

CALABAR — In a peaceful and orderly election held at the U.J Esuene Stadium in Calabar, the National Association of Cross River State Students Worldwide (NACRISS-WW) has declared its new leadership. Okoi, Abini Thomas, a student of the Faculty of Social Science, Department of Conflict Resolution at the University of Calabar, emerged as the President-Elect with a total of 83 votes. Joseph Nyong was elected as the Vice President-Elect, while Effem Miracle was chosen as the Director of Social.

The election was closely monitored by key stakeholders, including Hon. Enyam Joseph-Kelvin, Special Adviser to the Governor on student Affairs, who described the electoral process as free and fair. In an interview, Hon. Enyam Joseph-Kelvin commended the students for their decorum and cooperation during the election, stating that every aspirant was given the opportunity to vote and be voted for. He noted that the votes were counted and declared in a transparent manner, reflecting the democratic principles that the students uphold.

Hon. Enyam Joseph-Kelvin also expressed his gratitude to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Apostle Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for providing a conducive environment for the students to conduct their affairs. He praised the Governor's commitment to fostering a culture of peace and stability, which enabled the students to carry out their activities without any disruptions. The Special Adviser also thanked the Chief of Staff to the Governor and the Special Adviser on General Duties for their support.

The Electoral Board Chairman, Sen. Ntui Endurance Elepe, corroborated Hon. Enyam Joseph-Kelvin's assessment, describing the election as free and fair. He commended the students for their maturity and cooperation during the electoral process, which ensured that the election was conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner.

The emergence of Okoi, Abini Thomas as the President-Elect of NACRISS-WW is a significant development for the student community. As a student of Conflict Resolution, Okoi Abini Thomas is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of student politics and build consensus among his peers. Her vision for the association is expected to focus on promoting the welfare and interests of Cross River State students worldwide.

The election marked a significant milestone in the history of NACRISS-WW, demonstrating the association's commitment to democratic principles and good governance. The peaceful and orderly conduct of the election is a testament to the maturity and decorum of the students, who showed that they are capable of conducting their affairs in a responsible and democratic manner.

As the student community looks forward to the new leadership, there is a sense of optimism and hope. The emergence of Okoi Abini Thomas and his team is seen as an opportunity for renewal and growth, and students are eager to see the impact that the new leadership will have on the association.

Ms. Okoi Abini Thomas on her emergence as the newly elected President of the National Association of Cross River State Students Worldwide (NACRISS WW) is said to have defeated four (4) males counterparts to emerge the 2nd Female President of the Students Union body after Philomena Agweye, a 400 level of Vocation and Special education student of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) in 2014.

Notably, she previously contested for Vice President positions in both the 2023 SOSSA-UCC and NAPSS-UCC elections. 

Cross River State House of Assembly Saga: Hon. Cyril Omini's Many Unpardonable Sins

Umezulike Desmond-cruz  | 16th May 2025

Yesterday, the Cross River State cyberspace was awash with information suggesting that the Honourable Member Representing Yakurr 1 State Constituency, Hon. Cyril Omini, has been unceremoniously "ousted" as Chairman, Finance and Appropriation Committee; while such development is not alien to the modus operandi of legislative business, it does appear that the removal of Hon. Cyril Omini as Committee Chairman, ruffled not a few feathers, especially amongst young people in the State.

Whereas, it is within the constitutional prerogative of the Speaker to reshuffle the membership and headship of committees in the house, whenever it is imperative to do so, the removal of Cyril Omini has continued to generate uproar and suspicion, especially given the fact that the reasons adduced for his removal, appear to have defile all logical reasoning. The Speaker was quoted to have removed the honourable member on grounds of gross misconduct and absenteeism–quite ambiguous a claim, if you ask me. What exactly is this misconduct that has made the speaker use a sledgehammer? What could be so unpardonable a sin that would warrant such a draconic measure? These and many more are the unanswered questions on the lips of many. 

Anyone can choose to believe anything, but one thing has remained undisputed about Hon. Cyril Omini: he is one of the very best and most consistent–in service delivery– Assembly members alive today; hence, not out of place to assume that Hon. Cyril Omini, by his stellar performance, must have invited the lizards to a feast by carrying an insect infested firewood. What other sin can be more unpardonable than seeing an "ordinary" House of Assembly member outperforming all his colleagues put together? What else can be more unpardonable than seeing a fellow Assembly member facilitate the building of roads in his Constituency, construction of Civic Centers, massive financial support and grants for Small and Medium Enterprises, Payment of School fees for Law School Students, Jamb Registrations, Donation of Cars and Motorcycles to Constituents, Provision of Boreholes, Payment of Medical bills and facilitating Medical Outreach for Constituents. What else can be so unpardonable than fulfilling your promise to your Constituents, in an assembly where other members seem to have forgotten the roads to their Village? 

While the aforementioned sins are "unpardonable" it is important to stress that the removal of Hon. Cyril Omini appears to have sent a bad signal, as Cross Riverians– especially young people–believe that he is being victimized for daring to be different. I honestly do hope that this has nothing to do with 2027 election or the botched impeachment saga that greeted the assembly last year. A case of the Honourable Speaker trying to take his own pound of flesh. More worrisome is the fact that while Hon. Cyril Omini appears to be in support of Senator Eteng Jones return to the Senate, the speaker is alleged to be more amenable to Oden Ewa's aspiration to be Senator. 

While Politics is a game of thrones and wits, I honestly think that this infighting and cold war, would rather do more harm than good to the government even as we go into the 2027 election. I call on His Excellency, the Governor, to please intervene and restore normalcy to the house, as we cannot afford to have our assembly members on dagger-drawn against one another. I think that assembly members like CY should be encouraged to do more, rather than being victimized. What else is the season of sweetness without assembly members like CY complimenting the good works of the Governor? Imagine if we can have someone like CY in each of the 18 LGAs, I am cocksure that the fragrance of this season of sweetness will spread faster to all the nooks and crannies of the state. We must therefore, as a state, stop the killing of our own prophets–apologies to Bob Marley.

Disclaimer:

The views expressed in this article are solely those of Umezulike Desmond-Cruz and do not represent the editorial stance of The Daily News NG.

NOA Calls for Further Action on UTME Error, Commends JAMB’s Transparency

ABUJA — The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to take additional steps in addressing the recent errors experienced during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), even as it commended the examination body for its unprecedented transparency and accountability.

In an official statement, NOA Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, praised JAMB and its Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, for openly acknowledging the challenges faced during the examination. He described the action as a rare display of integrity and institutional responsibility, aligning with the core values enshrined in the National Values Charter (NVC).

"Professor Oloyede has shown the kind of ethical leadership and courage our institutions need. His forthrightness is commendable and worthy of emulation," the NOA DG stated.

However, Mallam Onilu stressed that beyond admitting to the lapses, JAMB must now focus on restitution. He urged the examination body to implement remedial measures that will ease the burden on affected candidates, their parents, and other stakeholders.

"Recognition of mistakes is the first step. Redemption and restitution are the next. JAMB should consider appropriate compensation to address the stress and anxiety candidates may have endured," he said.

NOA further stated that such transparency must become the norm in public service, noting that when institutions take responsibility for their actions, they gain the trust and confidence of citizens.

"JAMB's example should serve as a model. When public institutions own their mistakes and act decisively to correct them, they reinforce democratic accountability," Onilu said.

Reaffirming the Agency's commitment to promoting responsible leadership and ethical citizenship, the NOA DG noted that advancing the ideals of the National Values Charter remains a top priority. He called on all Nigerians—both in public and private life—to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and transparency as the foundation of a just and equitable society.

SSDC Nominations: Forum Commends Tinubu for Promoting Regional Inclusion

Ukorebi Esien | 11th May 2025

CALABAR –The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's nomination of Cross Riverians to the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), describing it as a deliberate step toward fostering national unity and regional inclusion.

The statement, signed by the Forum's Chairman, Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq., and fourteen others, welcomed the appointments of Ambassador Sony Abang as Executive Director (Finance) and Hon. Larry Odey as Commissioner, saying it demonstrates the federal government's commitment to balanced national development.

"We commend President Tinubu's foresight in promoting competence and inclusion. The selection of Ambassador Abang and Hon. Odey affirms that Cross River is a key stakeholder in Nigeria's progress," the statement read.

The Forum also credited Governor Bassey Otu for his quiet diplomacy and consistent push for equitable representation, noting that the governor's efforts have ensured that the state maintains a visible footprint in critical national institutions.

The nominations were listed in President Tinubu's communication to the Senate, which also included nominees for the North Central and South West Development Commissions. For the SSDC, eighteen nominees were presented, with Chibudom Nwuche and Usoro Offiong Akpabio leading as Chairman and Managing Director, respectively.

The CRSCF expressed optimism that the newly formed Commission will address the economic, ecological, and infrastructural challenges in the South-South zone, adding that its nominees from Cross River are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully.

The Forum urged prompt Senate confirmation and pledged its continued support for the goals of the Commission and the vision of a more inclusive Nigeria.

2027: 15,000 Southern Cross River Youths Set to Storm the Street as CRISPON Hosts Endorsement Rally for Governor Otu

Ukorebi Esien |  May 9, 2025

CALABAR — As the political cloud in Cross River State begins to gather momentum with rising concerns over the 2027 General elections, over 15,000 youths under the banner of the Cross River State Political Network (CRISPON) are prepared to storm the streets of Calabar in a grand endorsement rally for the state governor, His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

The event, scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the iconic U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar, is being organized to commemorate the Governor's second year in office and to drum up early support for his anticipated re-election bid in 2027.

Speaking at a mobilisation/strategic planning meeting held on the 8th of May, 2025, where over 2000 representatives from the 76 wards of the Southern Senatorial District were in attendance, Dr Michael Nku Abuo, Director General of CRISPON and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Dr. Prince Michael Nku Abuo, JP, said the rally is designed to highlight Governor Otu's achievements, galvanize youth support, and send a clear message of continuity to political stakeholders.

"We are witnessing a new dawn in Cross River State. Governor Otu's People First agenda has transformed lives through massive infrastructure, social investment, and youth inclusion. This endorsement rally is the youths' declaration that we are standing firmly with him into 2027," Abuo declared.

He further noted that the May 24 rally will be mirrored across the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts in the weeks ahead, with CRISPON coordinating thousands of members in what is expected to be the largest political youth-driven event in the state in recent years.

The meeting also saw the formation of subcommittees on mobilization, logistics, publicity, and protocol. A final sensitization and pre-mobilization event has been scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the same stadium.

Deputy Director General (South), Princess Okuanwan E., commended the youths for their energy and assured them that CRISPON would continue to protect their interests and create platforms for civic engagement.

With thousands of young people poised to hit the streets in solidarity, the upcoming rally is shaping up to be not just a celebration, but a powerful statement of youth-driven political direction heading into the 2027 elections.

Infrastructure Boost: Tinubu Launches Key Projects in Anambra Amid Applause from Private Sector, Communities

 Ukpa Ewa | 9th May 2025

AWKA —The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, received a warm reception during his one day working visit to Anambra State, where he commissioned several critical infrastructural projects. 

Speaking on behalf of the private sector, the Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), South East region, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support of Anambra State and Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo. She noted that the President involvement made citizens of the region feel more included in national development.

Lady Chukwudozie praised Governor Soludo for his outstanding performance, particularly for achieving major milestones without borrowing funds. "Governor Soludo has done marvelously well with the lean resources available to him. Ndi Anambra are proud of him," she stated, adding that she looks forward to the developmental impact of the newly commissioned projects.

Chairman of Anambra Patriots for Soludo,  Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi, also lauded the governor for fulfilling the expectations of the people. He highlighted accomplishments such as the construction of a modern government house, improvements in security, the creation of a 50-year development master plan, extensive road construction across communities and employment generation in the health and education sectors. He assured continued grassroot support for the Soludo administration.

In her remarks, Professor Rose Nwankwo, Secretary of the Solution Frontiers Movement, described the occasion as a form of public awareness about Governor Soludo's silent but impactful governance. She commended the governor for transforming Anambra State in just three years. "From dualized roads in Aguata and Ekwulobia to the transformed Ekwueme Square, Soludo has made remarkable strides. Today, people drive from Amansea to Ufuma in just 15 minutes—a feat never seen before," she noted, attributing improved security and nightlife to the governor effort.

The highlight of President Tinubu's visit was the commissioning of major projects, including the Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy, the new government house, and the Solution Fun City—landmark developments poised to boost socio-economic growth in the state. 

President Tinubu was also honoured with a prestigious chieftaincy title, Dike Si Mba Anambra, during the well-attended event, which brought together governors from the South East and dignitaries from Borno, Ogun, Delta States among others.

Crisis Looms as Traditional Leader Accuse of Selling Community Market in Calabar

Ukorebi Esien | 9th May 2025

CALABAR — The lingering crisis between Etinyin Ita Nyong and the Ekorinim community dates back to 2021, when this publication first reported an incident involving a youth leader who was allegedly shot by a police officer said to be working for Chief Nyong.

Since then, the community has witnessed a series of conflicts, most of which are connected to the sale of community lands and properties—many allegedly facilitated by Etinyin Ita Nyong.

In a recent development, our reporter was informed that a parcel of land reserved for the Ekorinim Community Market has been illegally sold. According to a reliable source, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, the land had been officially designated and approved for the market project by the Ekorinim Town Council and traditional chiefs. The land, which borders the Ikot Ansa community, was intended to serve residents of Ekorinim, Diamond, and surrounding communities.

Our reporter obtained copies of the approved building plans, which further confirmed the land's intended use. However, investigations revealed that the land has now been subdivided and sold to private individuals, some of whom have already begun construction.

In an interview with the Councillor representing Ward Five in Calabar Municipality, Hon. Augustine Edet Nyong, he expressed deep concern over the actions of Etinyin Ita Nyong. According to him, the land had long been reserved for the market project, and he has been actively working to see the project come to fruition.

"I have presented the market plan to the Chairman of Council, seeking local government support for the development. I'm even planning an investment dinner to attract investors, with the market as our flagship project," he disclosed.

Hon. Augustine described the situation as disheartening, emphasizing that while young leaders are striving to bring development to the area, one individual is allegedly selling off community assets for personal gain.

"It's painful. We, the youths, are working hard to attract development, yet someone is busy disposing of community properties for selfish reasons," he lamented.

He further confirmed that he had visited the site personally and found construction activities underway. On one occasion, he confronted and sent away some of the workers. He has since directed community leaders to halt all land sales in Ekorinim until the ongoing leadership dispute is resolved.

Efforts to reach Etinyin Ita Nyong for comment proved unsuccessful, as he neither answered nor returned calls as of press time.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Mayor of Calabar Municipality, Pastor Okon Nyong, whose office is mandated by law to manage conflicts and promote peace within the local government area, has assured that he will intervene promptly to resolve the crisis.

Reacting to the incident, the State Coordinator of Partners for Peace in the Niger Delta (P4P), Mr. Eteng Eteng, called on community leaders to protect communal assets and refrain from actions that hinder the development and unity of their communities.

Mr. Eteng emphasized that P4P, a network of certified peacebuilders and crisis management professionals, will work with relevant government agencies to ensure peace is restored in Ekorinim.

US4US Movement Applauds Tinubu for Appointing Youthful Technocrat to Head South-South Dev Commission

Ukorebi  Esien | May 9, 2025

CALABAR —The US4US Movement has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of a young technocrat as the pioneer Managing Director of the newly established South South Development Commission (SSDC), describing the decision as a bold step toward youth inclusion and national development.

In a statement signed by the Convener of the movement, Comrade Richie Romanus, the group expressed "profound joy" over the appointment, saying it reflects President Tinubu's commitment to his Renewed Hope agenda and underscores his belief in the capacity, competence, and credibility of young Nigerians.

"This marks the highest expression of confidence in the sterling qualities of a seasoned technocrat," the statement reads. "Your appointment is a demonstration of President Tinubu's impeccable trust in the ingenuity of Nigeria's youth and a milestone for youth participation in governance."

The US4US Movement called on the new Managing Director to channel her expertise and leadership towards transforming the fortunes of the South-South geopolitical zone, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, human capital development, and educational advancement.

Romanus also urged the new MD to foster synergy with other members of the commission and the teeming youth population in the region to consolidate on the strides already recorded by the Tinubu-led administration.

Reiterating the group's support, the US4US Movement pledged its readiness to collaborate with the commission in achieving its developmental goals.

"Kindly accept our warmest felicitation and assurance of unalloyed support," the statement concluded.

The South South Development Commission was recently established to spearhead regional development initiatives, and its leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the oil-rich but infrastructure-challenged region.

UNICAL VC Selection: Crisis Looms As Allegations of Manipulation Sparks Outrage

Prof. Florence Obi, VC UNICAL 

Our Reporter | 6th May 2025

CALABAR —A fresh storm is brewing at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) as the process of appointing a new Vice Chancellor has unravel allegations of manipulation, imposition, and power play, which has been widely perceived as a strategic move to sideline top contenders and tilt the race in favor of a preferred candidate, which has ignited sharp divisions within the university community.

A simmering conflict between the University's Governing Council  and the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, threatens to derail the transition.

Credible findings from our sources, indicate a sharp disagreement between the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, retired DIG Udom Ekpoudom, and the incumbent Vice Chancellor, over the sudden introduction of a new eligibility criterion: a mandatory 10-year post-professorial experience for candidates seeking to become Vice Chancellor.

Other sources within the University reveal that this controversial benchmark was allegedly proposed to eliminate strong contenders perceived as threats to a preferred candidate. 

Notably, this criterion has no uniform precedence in UNICAL's history.

 In past appointments, including that of the current Vice Chancellor herself, the requirement ranged between five and nine years of post-professorial experience.

Observers point to this inconsistency as a clear sign that the new 10-year benchmark is arbitrary, discriminatory, and tailored to favor certain individuals while excluding others who are equally or more qualified. 

"It is unfair and legally questionable," a top official from the Federal Ministry of Education disclosed, adding that the Ministry did not issue or support any such directive.

In yet another development breeding discontent, some contenders have made claims about a not so subtle attempt to zone the VC ship in an attempt to mimic political arrangements. 

A visibly disturbed source who preferred to remain anonymous pointed out that "zoning" is yet another hurdle being placed to eliminate credible and well qualified candidates from the race in a federal university. 

These developments have sparked deep concern within the University community.

 Several members of the Governing Council, caught unawares by the proposed changes, have distanced themselves from it and reported the matter to the Federal Ministry of Education. 

In response, the Pro-Chancellor has reportedly dissociated himself from the Vice Chancellor's maneuverings and re-assured stakeholders of his commitment to due process and fairness.

The tenure of Prof. Florence Obi ends in November 2025, with the appointment of a new Vice Chancellor expected to take place in September.

However, unless the Council acts decisively to maintain the integrity of the selection process, the university may be plunged into legal battles that could stall the appointment indefinitely.

Across Nigeria's first-generation universities, the average post-professorial benchmark for VC appointments ranges from six to eight years. UNICAL's imposition of a 10-year cut-off, without a clear justification or precedent, is therefore not only irregular but susceptible to legal challenge.

Stakeholders are now calling for a return to the status quo—retaining the previous maximum requirement of nine years or below—as the only way to ensure a credible and inclusive process. Anything short of this risks widening the rift between the Council and the University Management, and exposing the institution to avoidable litigation that could paralyze its operations.

The eyes of the academic community are watching. UNICAL must rise above personal interests and uphold the principles of merit, transparency, and fairness in this critical moment. 

Group Honors CRISSAA Boss for Humanitarian Activities

Ukorebi  Esien | 29th April 2025

CALABAR— The Director General of the Cross River State Signage and Advertisement Agency (CRISSAA), Mr. Ubong Sam, has been honored by the Hope Ability Empowerment Initiative (HAEI) for his outstanding humanitarian contributions and consistent support for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The recognition came during a brief but heartfelt ceremony where Mr. Sam was praised for his quiet acts of generosity and commitment to the welfare of vulnerable groups. Often described as a "secret giver" and a man with a heart of gold, Mr. Sam's efforts have not gone unnoticed by the community.

Presenting the award, the Executive Director of HAEI, Dr. (Mrs.) Martina Ongbonya Ntino, commended Mr. Sam for his humility, accessibility, and unwavering dedication to service.

"Mr. Ubong Sam is someone who never hesitates to help, no matter the time or circumstance. His compassion, especially toward persons with disabilities, is evident in his actions and impact," she stated.

In his response, the Head of Information at CRISSAA described the award as a collective achievement, noting that Mr. Sam's leadership has transformed the agency for the better. "Since his appointment, the agency has taken on a more humane and inclusive approach to its operations," he said.

Mr. Sam, visibly moved by the recognition, expressed gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to humanitarian causes. "I am deeply humbled by this award. Everything I do is for the good of humanity. I'm glad that my efforts are making a difference, and I promise to do even more," he said.

#DisabilityInclusion #HopeAbility #Philanthropy #HeroAmongUs