My Doctoral Award Is a Call for More Service" – Chief of Staff, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar

Ukorebi Esien | July 30, 2025

CALABAR — The Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. (Dr.) Emmanuel Ironbar, has described his recent honorary doctorate as more than a personal achievement, it is, in his words, "a renewed call to deeper service to humanity."

Speaking with journalists shortly after arriving at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar on Monday, Dr. Ironbar reflected on the honour conferred upon him by Crown University, Delaware–USA, in collaboration with the Centre for Public Service Productivity and Development. The award ceremony took place in Lagos at the University of Lagos on Saturday, where he received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Policy and Administrative Studies.

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Ironbar stated that the award is not just a recognition of his contributions to public service, but a fresh responsibility to do even more for the people of Cross River State.

"This award is a great encouragement," he said. "But beyond the excitement, it is a challenge one that pushes me to rededicate myself to the service of humanity, and more importantly, to support the vision of His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, whose leadership continues to inspire us."

He emphasized that his achievements are a reflection of the Governor's people-first approach, which prioritizes development, accountability, and compassion in governance.

"I'm fortunate to be working under a Governor whose focus is service to humanity. That alone drives me daily. This recognition pushes me to strengthen my role as a servant-leader and further the developmental goals of this administration."

Known for his calm, effective administrative style, Dr. Ironbar used the opportunity to speak to the youth of Cross River State. He encouraged them to embrace the values of diligence, professionalism, and ethical public service.

"Public office is a trust. Young people must understand that every action is being watched. Transparency, open communication, and empathy should guide anyone who seeks to lead or serve."

Dr. Ironbar reaffirmed his commitment to Governor Otu's administration and pledged to continue upholding the principles of excellence, humility, and purposeful leadership.

The honorary doctorate has continued to generate goodwill from across political and civil society circles, with many praising it as a fitting recognition of Dr. Ironbar's dedication and impact in public administration.

As he returns to his desk in the heart of government, Dr. Ironbar is not seeing this accolade as the peak of success, but as a fresh beginning to serve, lead, and inspire.

Oil Well Dispute Threatens Development Planning in C'River - Duke

 Ukorebi Esien |  July 28, 2025

CALABAR – Dr. Bong Duke, the Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission, has voiced serious concerns over the long-standing oil well allocation dispute between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, warning that the injustice threatens the core of sustainable planning and development in Cross River.

Speaking in reaction to the controversy surrounding the 76 oil wells originally located in the Bakassi region, Dr. Duke stated that the dispute is not merely a territorial issue, but one that directly undermines the economy of the state and hampers the implementation of development policies.

"Cross River State has suffered unjustly for over a decade," Dr. Duke said. "This injustice now confirmed by the findings of a federal inter-agency committee which located 67 oil wells within our maritime boundary has denied the state critical revenues needed to fund infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation."

According to Dr. Duke, the wrongful allocation of the oil wells to Akwa Ibom has had a ripple effect on Cross River's ability to meet its development benchmarks and execute key projects under the People-First Agenda of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

"Planning for a state without access to its rightful resources is like drawing water from an empty well. Our budget projections, industrial policy targets, and rural development initiatives are all affected," he said.

The Planning Commission CEO emphasized that the dispute, if unresolved, will continue to distort medium- and long-term development planning in the state. He stressed that the issue should not be politicized but treated as a development and governance concern with far-reaching implications.

Dr. Duke praised the proactive steps taken by Governor Otu in formally engaging the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, which led to the constitution of an inter-agency verification committee in March 2024. The committee, after plotting the maritime boundary using the 11th Edition of the National Administrative Map and geolocating the oil wells, found 67 of them to be within Cross River territory.

"This is not about asking for favors; it is about demanding what is rightfully ours," Dr. Duke added. "Justice is the foundation for meaningful growth. Without it, we will only be managing poverty, not solving it."

He also called on federal authorities to ensure the final resolution reflects the truth, equity, and legal boundaries as established by available maps and data. According to him, the ongoing silence and resistance from Akwa Ibom State contradict the directive of the Presidency for both states to hold consultations and report back.

"The development of Cross River State depends largely on fiscal justice, we remain committed to peace, but we will not be silent in the face of systemic economic disempowerment." Dr. Duke concluded.

The dispute, which gained renewed attention following a July 24 press release by Akwa Ibom State's Attorney General, Uko Udom, SAN, has sparked national debate on resource ownership, boundary demarcation, and inter-state equity. The Cross River State Government had earlier issued an official response signed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, reiterating its position and calling for corrective action.

As both states await the outcome of the Presidential directive, stakeholders continue to urge for transparency and adherence to administrative facts to ensure lasting peace and development.

Planning Commission CEO Hails Ironbar’s Honorary Doctorate as Well-Deserved

Ukorebi Esien July 28, 2025

CALABAR - Pastor Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Planning Commission, has joined other dignitaries and stakeholders in celebrating the Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, on the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree in Public Policy and Administration.

The prestigious honour was conferred by the Crown University, Delaware, USA, during a colourful convocation ceremony held at the University of Lagos on Saturday, July 27, 2025. The event attracted a cross-section of national and state leaders, academics, and civil society representatives, who gathered to recognize individuals making remarkable contributions to public governance and service delivery in Nigeria.

In a congratulatory message released on Monday, Pastor Dr. Bong Duke described the award as "timely, well-deserved, and a strong validation of Ironbar's unwavering dedication to the ideals of responsive governance, strategic leadership, and public accountability."

"Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar has demonstrated uncommon commitment to the People's First vision of His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu. His ability to coordinate government machinery with humility, tact, and efficiency has not gone unnoticed. This honorary doctorate is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the kind of leadership that Cross River State continues to produce," Dr. Duke stated.

He further praised Ironbar's long-standing record of public service, describing him as a "silent achiever and bridge-builder" whose administrative experience and people-centered approach have helped shape key decisions within the state government.

The Planning Commission boss also noted that Ironbar's recognition by an international academic institution signals a growing appreciation for the quality of leadership emerging from Cross River State.

"This honour should inspire other public servants to pursue excellence with diligence and sincerity. It shows that the world is watching, and that credibility, professionalism, and loyalty to the people are still valued," he added.

Dr. Duke concluded by extending warm wishes to Hon. Ironbar on behalf of the Commission, encouraging him to continue being a model of selfless service, strategic thinking, and administrative competence.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, had earlier congratulated Hon. Ironbar on the honour, noting that the award affirms his outstanding leadership in coordinating government activities and providing support to the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

The honorary doctorate adds to Hon. Ironbar's growing reputation as one of Cross River's most dependable and effective public servants, with many describing him as a stabilizing force in the state's governance structure.

Birotojob Launches Future-Ready Tech Summer Camp for Kids and Teens in Lagos

LAGOS, Nigeria — July  26, 2025

In an ambitious drive to equip Nigerian children with the digital skills of the future, Birotojob Training Academy has unveiled its 2025 Tech Summer Camp — a dynamic four-week learning experience that immerses children and teenagers in the world of Generative AI, Robotics/Internet of Things (IoT), and Mobile App Development.

The camp, set to begin next week in Lagos, targets participants between the ages of 6 and 16, offering age-appropriate, project-based learning that emphasizes creativity, logical thinking, and problem-solving.

According to Mr. Charles Chinedu Okwuosa, Chief Executive Officer of Birotojob, the summer program reflects the academy's commitment to nurturing early interest in technology and bridging the digital divide among Nigerian youth.

"We are committed to bridging the digital skills gap from the foundation. This summer camp is more than just an educational program  it's an early launchpad for future Nigerian innovators who will lead in AI, robotics, and digital solutions globally," Okwuosa said.

The program is divided into focused modules, including:

Coding and Web Development for kids aged 6–11,

Robotics and IoT Applications for teenagers, and

Generative AI & Mobile App Development for older participants using platforms like Google AI Studio and MIT App Inventor.

Highlighting the academy's dedication to a positive and secure learning environment, Mrs. Claire Amuka, Head of Administration, stated:

"Our aim is to make technology approachable for kids and teens. Every session is hands-on, guided by patient instructors, and designed to boost their confidence in building real-world tech projects."

One of the camp's major attractions is the Project Showcase Fair an end-of-camp event where participants will publicly present their tech creations to an audience of family members and peers, enhancing their communication skills and fostering innovation through collaboration.

Solomon Aiyede, Head of Instructors, shared insight into the structure and benefits of the curriculum:

"We've designed the curriculum to spark curiosity and problem-solving. From building their first website to automating smart devices, students will experience the joy of creating technology  not just using it."

Program Overview:

Start Date: Next Week (July 2025)

Duration:

 4 Weeks (Monday to Friday)

Age Groups:

6–11 years: Coding & Web Development

12–16 years: Robotics, IoT, Generative AI & App Development

Venue: Birotojob Training Academy, Lagos

Registration/Enquiries: +234 706 695 7730

Social Media: @birotojob

As Nigeria intensifies its focus on STEM education and digital innovation, initiatives like Birotojob's Tech Summer Camp represent a forward-thinking step in preparing the next generation for a rapidly evolving digital economy

NUJ Cross River Celebrates Hon. Ironbar on Honorary Doctorate Award

 Kingsley Agim | July 26 2025

CALABAR — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has congratulated the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, on his conferment with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Policy and Administration by the prestigious Crown University of Delaware, United States of America.

The ceremony, which held earlier today at the University of Lagos, was attended by dignitaries from across the country and beyond, and celebrated Hon. Ironbar's sterling contributions to governance, public service, and administrative excellence in Cross River State.

In a congratulatory message issued shortly after the event, the NUJ Cross River State Council, through its Chairman Comrade Archibong Bassey, described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of Hon. Ironbar's potent leadership.

"This prestigious recognition is a reflection of your exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and strategic contribution to governance in Cross River State," the statement read.

The Union noted that Hon. Ironbar, in his role as Chief of Staff to Governor Bassey Otu, has provided purposeful coordination and structure to the machinery of government, earning him admiration within and beyond the state.

"Your honour is well-earned and speaks volumes of your dedication to the development of Cross River State, your integrity, and the values you uphold," the NUJ stated, adding that the award was not only a personal achievement but a source of pride to all Cross Riverians.

The Council further commended Crown University of Delaware for recognising excellence in public policy and administration, adding that Hon. Ironbar's distinction would inspire many in and out of public office to embrace service with integrity and discipline.

"As journalists, we are always proud to see good governance acknowledged and celebrated. Hon. Ironbar's story is proof that consistent, behind-the-scenes leadership and humility can still shine brightly in the public space," the statement noted.

The NUJ concluded by praying for greater milestones in Hon. Ironbar's journey and reaffirmed its support for leaders who promote values of dedication, accountability, and excellence in public service.

Legal Dispute Stalls UNICAL Vice-Chancellor Appointment Process

Ukorebi Esien | July 27, 2025 

CALABAR — The University of Calabar's search for a new Vice-Chancellor has been put on hold following an interim order issued by the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) sitting in Calabar.

In a suit marked NICN/CA/40/2025, Professor Joseph Eyo Duke is challenging the eligibility criteria set out in a public advertisement published on May 27, 2025, which mandates applicants to have a minimum of 10 years of post-professorial experience. The claimant contends that the requirement, stemming from an emergency Governing Council meeting on March 25, 2025, is unlawful and based on a regulation that does not exist.

In an ex-parte motion filed on July 23, 2025, Prof. Duke, through his counsel Ubong Akpan, Esq., sought to restrain UNICAL and its Governing Council from continuing with the selection process. Granting the motion, Hon. Justice Sanusi Kado ordered a halt to all proceedings related to the Vice-Chancellor appointment pending the hearing of the substantive matter.

The case has been transferred to the Abuja Division of the NICN for continuation during the court's vacation period, with August 7, 2025, set for hearing the motion on notice. Justice Kado further instructed all parties to maintain the status quo to ensure fair adjudication.

The registrar of the NICN, Egba Juliet Peter, formally signed and sealed the restraining order, which effectively suspends UNICAL's succession timeline originally aimed at concluding before the current Vice-Chancellor's tenure expires in December 2025.

Calabar South Stakeholders Demand Creation of Two Additional LGAs

Ukorebi Esien | July 23, 2025

CALABAR — As the national discourse on constitutional amendment and state creation gains momentum, stakeholders from Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State have presented a compelling case for the creation of two additional LGAs from the existing Calabar South.

The call was amplified during a live radio programme, on Cross River Broadcasting Corporation, CRBC, Sunrise Radio, co-hosted by Emmanuel Bisong and Esther Coco-Bassey, where key leaders and committee members involved in the advocacy outlined historical, demographic, and developmental justifications for the demand.

Leading the conversation, Pastor Patrick Asikpo, Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State and Chairman of a 14-man communiqué drafting committee constituted by the Calabar South Local Government Chairman, Pastor Patrick Archibong, stated that the creation of new LGAs is vital for deepening grassroots development and delivering the dividends of democracy.

"The whole essence of governance is to bring hope to the people," Asikpo said. "With the exponential population growth, increased economic activities, and the historic significance of Calabar South, creating additional LGAs is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity."

According to the cleric, the proposed split is not driven by personal interests but by a collective aspiration to attract more federal presence, create jobs, expand infrastructure, and bring governance closer to the people.

Providing historical context, Pastor Asikpo described Calabar South as one of the oldest settlements in Nigeria, dating back over 2,000 years. "It served as a hub for European missionaries in the 15th century and was pivotal to the transatlantic slave trade. It also housed the first international seaport on the Gulf of Guinea," he explained.

Adding weight to the advocacy, Barr. Ewa Henshaw, Managing Director of Cross River Equity and Investment Ltd and a member of the committee, emphasized that the campaign is aligned with the broader national conversation on restructuring and state creation. He threw his weight behind the creation of Ogoja State, asserting that, "If they don't create Ogoja State, then something fundamental is wrong with Nigeria. Ogoja has long deserved statehood as one of the oldest provinces."

Also speaking, Rt. Hon. Okon Ephraim, former member of the Cross River State House of Assembly who represented Calabar South, pointed out that the current size and population of the LGA are unmanageable under one administrative structure. He noted that "Ward 12 alone has over 78 polling units, more than some entire local governments. During the 2023 governorship elections, Calabar South delivered the highest number of votes for the current governor. We deserve more."  The former Chief Whip insisted. 

The committee's proposal outlines three LGAs to be carved from the existing Calabar South:

Atakpa LGA: Comprising Wards 1 to 6 (with internal ward splits bringing it to 10 wards)

Calabar Central LGA: Encompassing Wards 7 to 10 (with subdivisions also yielding 10 wards)

Calabar South (Retained): Made up of Wards 11 and 12, with existing zones converted to 12 full wards

This structure is designed to minimize conflict, as the demarcations are based strictly on existing wards, avoiding any boundary disputes.

According to the committee, the area has grown from a population of 260,000 in 2006 to an estimated 400,000 today, further justifying the need for decentralization. The stakeholders emphasized that the creation of new LGAs will bring about improved access to education, health facilities, and economic opportunities, while also enhancing the political bargaining power of the region.

They also stressed the importance of lobbying legislators at both state and national levels, as the constitutional amendment process requires concurrence from two-thirds of the States Houses of Assembly. The advocacy committee has resolved to continue engagements, mobilization, and public enlightenment to ensure their voices are heard and their demands acted upon.

"Our call is backed by empirical data, demographic realities, and historical facts," Pastor Asikpo concluded. "It is a logical and justifiable demand made within the constitutional framework, and we believe that the time to act is now."

The conversation reflects the rising clamor across Nigeria for more equitable representation and decentralization as citizens push for governance structures that are closer and more responsive to the needs of local communities.

CRBC Transitions to Paperless Newsroom, Set to Launch Language-Thematic Station in Odukpani

Ukorebi Esien | July 22, 2025

 

CALABAR - The Cross River Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC) has continued its journey toward modernization, announcing the transition to a fully paperless newsroom while also unveiling plans to establish a language-thematic broadcast station in Odukpani Local Government Area. These strategic moves are part of a broader reform agenda spearheaded by the General Manager, Mr. Sam Nsor, who has overseen sweeping infrastructural, digital, and operational changes since assuming office on June 23, 2023.

In an exclusive interview, the CRBC boss disclosed that the transformation aligns with Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu's "People First" agenda, emphasizing innovation, inclusion, and service delivery across the state's media landscape.

One of the most significant milestones in the CRBC reform drive is the transition to a paperless newsroom, driven by integrated digital tools such as Radio Garden and RadioBus. These platforms allow for automated advert uploads and global streaming of radio content, even when the station is technically off-air.

"With our automation tools, advertisers can now monitor their spots in real-time. Our content runs 24/7 on autopilot, and CRBC is now accessible from anywhere in the world," Nsor said.

This digital transformation has drastically reduced advert non-compliance from a troubling 96% to just 2%, mostly attributed to occasional human error. The station's revamped website, www.crbconline.org, also serves as a central hub for live radio streaming and information access.

Nsor also disclosed that as part of its bold move to promote cultural preservation and inclusivity, CRBC is set to establish a language-thematic broadcast station in Odukpani. The proposed station will focus on indigenous language programming, giving voice to local dialects and traditional knowledge systems. He informed that Odukpani had been a substation with full completement of a broadcast station for both Radion and Tv production. Adding that the Odukpani station is expected to serve surrounding communities, provide employment for local content creators, and deepen the state's commitment to linguistic diversity.

"This is part of our long-term vision to make broadcasting accessible and relatable. Language is a carrier of culture, and we want every Cross Riverian to hear themselves reflected in our content," Nsor explained.

Nsor who expressly credited the remarkable turnaround to the unwavering support of the State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, describing him as "a father who never gets tired of listening to our complaints and a consistent enabler of growth and modernization at the state-owned broadcaster." Noted that the station's major problem had been not just physical dilapidation but operational too.

"When I resumed on June 23, 2023, the CRBC building was not only physically dilapidated but operationally handicapped," Nsor recalled. "There were no air conditioners, no functional generator, and zero working cameras except a 1993 Panasonic left in the GM's office."

The cerebral broadcaster noted that the biggest challenge of the corporation was Power. The station operated on a 2kVA domestic generator, placed on a slab on a roof top to power the studios, without air conditioning or proper broadcasting capacity.

He noted that this directly affected the station's inability to take live feeds or scheduled broadcasts led to a staggering 96% advert non-compliance rate. This, in turn, caused a severe drop in revenue as advertisers saw no value in airing content that never reached the public.

Nsor informed that one of his first interventions was the reactivation of a 60kVA generator that had been abandoned since January 2023 due to stolen AMOK cables. Furthermore, he introduced a "electricity tripod" plan which was:

1. Migration from 11kVA to 33kVA Band A power supply,
2. Purchase of a new 100kVA Meccano generator with a diesel distilling line,
3. Installation of a solar power system to drive 24-hour broadcasting.

The third leg of the "electricity tripod" plan, according to Nsor is yet to be achieved but the corporation now enjoys 33kVA Band A power, with a new transformer and substation, although this has pushed monthly electricity bills from ₦300,000 to ₦3.6 million. The new generator is also fully operational.

With these changes, the corporation has slashed its advert non-compliance rate to a mere 2%, mostly due to human error, which is often corrected through advertiser make-goods.

In addition to power and infrastructure upgrades, CRBC has embraced digital tools to broaden its reach. The introduction of Radio Garden, which streams radio content online, allows listeners across Nigeria and beyond to tune in. Advertisers are assured that their content runs even when the station is off-air, thanks to the automation of content uploads via RadioBus.

The GM also disclosed that CRBC now has six state-of-the-art 4K and 6K generational cameras, equating the station's visual quality to industry giants like DSTV.

Efforts are also underway to migrate CRBC to satellite broadcasting via the NIGCOMSAT platform. The Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT is expected in Calabar this week to discuss the final technical and financial modalities for migration. This will position CRBC for inclusion on DSTV and make it accessible on free-to-air platforms using strong decoders.

"We're working with His Excellency to finalize funding for licensing, engineering evaluation, and digital infrastructure needed for satellite migration. We expect it to be completed before 2026," the GM said.

Recognizing that a modern work environment requires motivated personnel, the CRBC leadership, with the governor's approval, recently increased stipends by ₦500,000 for the corporation's 123 "artist" staff and has initiated a process to regularize 70 of them into full civil service positions.

"This alone is a major morale booster. We've also improved working conditions across departments," the Nsor noted.

CRBC has overhauled its programming schedule by introducing time-belts tailored for children, youth, and older audiences. Content now includes educational tech shows, music for older generations, children's cartoons, and more. Montages and visuals have also been updated to reflect current realities.

The station is also strengthening its presence on the internet via its website, www.crbconline.org, where users can stream radio and access information.

In terms of revenue generation and returns on investment, The general Manager disclosed that the station remitted over ₦27 million to the government in 2023, a significant leap from previous years. Revenue generation is projected to grow even further once the television arm replaces its 29-year-old transmitter with a modern 1-kilowatt unit, approved recently by the Governor.

Despite these advances, the GM emphasized the importance of maintaining terrestrial transmission even after migrating to satellite.

"Many of our grassroots audiences may not afford DSTV subscriptions. We must continue to serve them. After all, public broadcasting is about the people," he said.

The Media magnet expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and restated his commitment to driving the corporation into a modern, profitable, and accessible broadcast station that delivers value to the people and the government of Cross River State

UNICAL Refutes Over-Admission Rumours in Dentistry Programme, Vows Resolution in Partnership with MDCN

Ukorebi Esien | July 22, 2025

 

CALABAR - The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has dismissed claims circulating on social media suggesting the institution's Dentistry programme has lost its accreditation or that students have been instructed to transfer or abandon their studies.

In an official statement released by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Florence Banku Obi, the university clarified that its Dentistry programme retains full accreditation, and the administration remains committed to resolving existing challenges in collaboration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).

Prof. Obi stated that the misinformation currently trending online is a distortion of facts, and urged students, parents, and the general public to remain calm and disregard such reports.

"The Dentistry programme at UNICAL commenced during the 2013/2014 academic session. Pre-clinical accreditation was granted by MDCN in 2019, and full clinical accreditation followed in December 2022," the statement read. "Therefore, the issue is not about loss of accreditation, as the next assessment by MDCN is scheduled for 2027."

She, however, acknowledged that the University had over-admitted students into the Dentistry programme in previous years, a situation that predates her administration. "The MDCN, during a post-accreditation meeting in December 2022, advised the University to suspend further admissions to allow a framework for graduating current students to be developed," she said.

To address the situation, the Vice-Chancellor, alongside the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences and the Dean of Dentistry, held a high-level meeting with MDCN officials in Abuja. During the meeting, it was agreed that some students in the 4th, 5th, and 6th years may be transferred to other accredited institutions, with MDCN facilitating the process.

"In the same breath, the Council assured us that it is committed to graduating our students and has already included three cohorts for graduation. For the pending induction of 31 students and resit examinations for 28 others, MDCN has requested a re-evaluation of the programme's academic resources before proceeding," Prof. Obi explained.

In efforts to enhance the faculty's capacity, UNICAL has procured four new dental chairs, bringing the total to 26, with 16 more expected under the ₦4.75 billion Special Presidential Intervention for medical colleges. The university has also secured a waiver to employ additional academic staff and is awaiting budgetary clearance from the Federal Government to commence recruitment.

Prof. Obi emphasized that these efforts are aimed at meeting MDCN's requirements for resource revalidation, which could enable an increase in the programme's admission quota in the near future.

Addressing the concerns of students and parents, the Vice-Chancellor said, "At no point were students advised to seek admission elsewhere or abandon the programme. Rather, we called for patience while the University initiates institutional engagements for potential transfers, a process to be coordinated with MDCN's support."

On July 10, 2025, the University convened a stakeholders' meeting involving students, parents, and college management to communicate the outcomes of the Abuja meeting and the steps being taken to address the over-admission issue.

Prof. Obi called on the Honourable Minister of Education and the Director-General of the Budget Office to expedite approval processes for staff recruitment and facility procurement to ensure MDCN's timely re-evaluation visit.

"Let it be clearly understood: the University of Calabar's Dentistry programme retains its full accreditation. We remain fully committed to our students' academic progress and professional licensure, and we are confident that continued dialogue with all stakeholders will yield lasting solutions," the statement concluded.

NUJ Chairman Archibong Bassey Inducted as Professional Fellow of Research Gateway Institute

Ukorebi Esien | July 21, 2025

 

CALABAR - The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, has been honoured with a Professional Fellowship by the Research Gateway Professional Institute, a prestigious recognition for her outstanding contributions to journalism and public service.

The investiture ceremony, held at the Ernest Bassey Press Centre in Calabar, brought together dignitaries from the media, academia, and civil society to witness the conferment of the internationally recognized honour.

In his remarks, the Registrar of the Institute, Prof. Bassey Oben, described Bassey as a trailblazer and a woman of exceptional integrity, leadership, and resilience. He revealed that her nomination received unanimous approval from the board of the institute due to her meritorious service and influence beyond the newsroom.

"When your name came up, the board agreed without hesitation," Oben stated. "This honour is in recognition of your dedication, professionalism, and the impact you've made not just in journalism but in the larger society."

Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Research Gateway Professional Institute is an internationally accredited academic and vocational body operating from Cross River State. The institute specializes in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and offers certifications in various vocational, entrepreneurial, and technical fields in collaboration with a consortium of 12 global universities.

According to Prof. Oben, the institute has trained over 3,500 individuals in just five years, with a strong focus on youth, women, and vulnerable populations. Its certification programmes, including in Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), geriatric care, and corporate mediation, are globally verifiable through digital barcodes.

The highlight of the event was the formal oath-taking by Bassey, who solemnly pledged to uphold the values of integrity, objectivity, and ethical conduct in all professional engagements. She was thereafter robed and inducted as a Fellow of the Institute by the Registrar.

In an emotional acceptance speech, Bassey reflected on her professional journey, expressing gratitude for the recognition.

"Sometimes it feels like no one is watching or appreciating your effort, but today proves otherwise," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "This recognition brings tears to my eyes. It reminds me and others that if we keep our candles burning, eventually the world will notice the light."

Bassey, who recently featured on the 2025 list of 100 Women Making Change in Nigeria, also encouraged young journalists and aspiring female leaders to stay committed to their purpose.

"Let your passion speak louder than the challenges. Recognition will come, even when it feels delayed," she added.

With this induction, Comrade Archibong Bassey joins a growing list of professionals who are leveraging their platforms for societal transformation and youth development through academic and vocational excellence.