Ikom LG Boss Vows to Prioritize Security, Welcomes New DPO

Ukorebi Esien | September 16, 2025

CALABAR — The Executive Chairman of Ikom Local Government Area, Hon. Pastor (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor, has reaffirmed her administration's commitment to prioritizing security as she received the newly posted Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Abdulrahaman, in her office.

The courtesy visit, which marked CSP Abdulrahaman's official assumption of duty, was geared towards strengthening collaboration between the local government and the Nigeria Police Force in tackling security challenges in the area.

In her remarks, Hon. Nsor charged the new DPO to put the safety and well-being of citizens above all else. She pledged the council's full support to security agencies, stressing that peace and safety are critical foundations for the progress of Ikom.

"Our people's safety is non-negotiable. As a government, we are ready to give all the necessary support and partnership to ensure Ikom remains peaceful and secure for all," the Chairman said.

On his part, CSP Abdulrahaman lauded the Chairman's proactive leadership and expressed readiness to sustain peace in the area. He disclosed that his predecessor's handover notes had spoken highly of Hon. Nsor's cooperative spirit, which he intends to build on.

"I am here to consolidate the existing cordial relationship between the police and the council. I assure you of my total commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Ikom," the DPO stated.

The meeting ended with both leaders pledging to work hand-in-hand to maintain peace and strengthen security across the local government.

National Ordinance Day: NOA DG Urges Nigerians to Respect National Symbols

Ukorebi Esien  | September 16, 2025 

ABUJA –  The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has urged Nigerians to show greater respect for the country's national symbols as the nation commemorates National Ordinance Day.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, Issa-Onilu stressed that the National Flag, Coat of Arms, National Anthem, Pledge, Constitution, and other emblems of sovereignty represent the unity, dignity, and identity of Nigeria.

"Respect for our national symbols is respect for Nigeria itself. Each time we hoist the flag correctly, recite the pledge sincerely, or sing the anthem with pride, we affirm our loyalty and commitment to the ideals of our nation," the NOA boss said.

National Ordinance Day, celebrated annually on September 16, marks the historic handover of Nigeria's national symbols at independence.

Issa-Onilu called on schools, communities, organizations, and government institutions to consciously integrate respect for national symbols into their daily practices, saying such measures would deepen national identity and strengthen social cohesion.

He further assured that the Agency would sustain nationwide sensitization campaigns and work with stakeholders to ensure every Nigerian understands and upholds the dignity of the country's symbols.

Postgraduate Students Honour Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang for Selfless Service

Ukorebi Esien | September 12, 2025

CALABAR — The Postgraduate Students Association has honoured Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the union as well as his broader support for education and youth empowerment.

At a brief but colourful ceremony, the association described Dr. Abang as a "pillar of support and inspiration" whose interventions have consistently uplifted students across different levels of study. Presenting the award, the association's leadership commended him for his selfless approach to service, citing his sponsorship of educational initiatives, including the provision of WAEC registration forms and empowerment programmes for indigent students in Etung Local Government Area.

Responding, Dr. Abang expressed gratitude for the recognition, stressing that investing in education remains central to community development and national growth. "This honour reinforces my belief that the true wealth of a society lies in the knowledge and opportunities we pass on to the younger generation," he said.

Friends,  family members and colleagues who attended the event lauded the association's choice, noting that Abang's blend of professional expertise as a civil engineer and management scholar with grassroots philanthropy makes him a role model for emerging leaders.

Dr. Abang, who holds degrees in Agricultural Economics, Civil Engineering, and a PhD in Business Management, is also the initiator of the Abon Abang Foundation, through which he has championed scholarships, empowerment programmes, and sustainable community development projects.

Stakeholders Push Transport Safety as Dr. Julius Kijuo Becomes JNTSC Chairman

Ukorebi Esien | September 12, 2025

CALABAR – The Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria (JNTSC), in partnership with the Office of the Inspector General of Police and the Cross River State Government, has inaugurated its state taskforce to enforce safety and security compliance in the haulage and transport sector.

The event began with courtesy visits to the Cross River State Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner for Transport, before the official inauguration of Dr. Julius Obanghe Kijuo as Chairman of the Cross River State Chapter of Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria (JNTSC). The programme later climaxed with a stakeholders' engagement on transport reforms and compliance in the haulage sector.

Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Ekpenyong Cobham, decried sharp practices in the transport sector, particularly the issuance of roadworthiness certificates without due inspection. "We cannot continue to allow people to buy certificates while their vehicles remain death traps. This is not just about policy; it is about saving lives," he declared. He urged the newly inaugurated taskforce members to see their assignment as service beyond duty. "You are not just working for man, you are working for God. Every life saved on our highways is a legacy of service."

In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Kijuo pledged to align the committee's work with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Bassey Otu's People-First Agenda. Stressing the strategic role of Cross River as a border and trade hub, he promised strict enforcement of safety standards. "We will insist on regular vehicle inspections, enforcement of speed limits, prevention of overloading and spillage, and monitoring against drug abuse among drivers," he assured.

National Chairman of JNTSC, Ambassador Taiwo Oluwatamilare Mogugu, commended the state for embracing reforms, pledging support from the national body. "We are working to integrate all state transport ministries into standardized vehicle inspection systems. What is starting here in Cross River will become a national model," he said.

Stakeholders present emphasized the need for synergy among government agencies, transport unions, and security operatives to minimize road accidents and safeguard lives.

With the inauguration, Cross River joins other proactive states in reforming haulage operations and strengthening safety compliance across Nigeria's highways.

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Orok Duke Tasks CUDA, LGs on Joint Waste Evacuation Strategy

The Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has called for greater collaboration between the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA) and local government councils to address the growing challenges of waste management in the state capital and its environs.

Duke made the appeal during the official handover of waste bins to the chairmen of Odukpani, Calabar South, and Calabar Municipality local government areas. The ceremony, which held in Calabar, was witnessed by the Executive Secretary of CUDA, the Special Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Barr. Akiba Ekpenyong, and the Member representing Calabar Municipality in the Cross River State House of Assembly.

Speaking at the event, Duke expressed concern over the absence of waste bins in some parts of Calabar, particularly Marina, where residents have resorted to dumping refuse on the streets and in open nylos. He stressed that effective evacuation, not just the provision of bins, must remain the priority of all stakeholders.

"Our role as NDDC is not to take over the responsibilities of state agencies but to augment them," Duke said. "CUDA must work in harmony with the local governments, and while we support with bins, there must be a clear evacuation plan to prevent indiscriminate dumping, especially in inaccessible areas where trucks cannot easily enter."

He further warned against politicising the distribution of waste bins, insisting that equitable allocation across wards and communities is necessary for environmental safety.

The Executive Secretary of CUDA, while receiving the bins, acknowledged the challenges of waste evacuation in densely populated areas but assured that the authority would work with the local councils to harmonise routes and ensure a cleaner city.

The three local government chairmen who received the bins welcomed the intervention but admitted that the quantities allocated were insufficient to meet the needs of their councils. The Chairman of Calabar South lamented that some areas, such as Marina, had lost their bins entirely, forcing residents to dump refuse on the ground. His Calabar Municipality counterpart noted the peculiar challenge of narrow streets in areas where evacuation trucks cannot pass, stressing the need for a coordinated approach with CUDA to ensure effective waste collection.

On his part, the Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area urged for a fairer and more equitable distribution of bins across communities, arguing that densely populated areas would require reinforcement to avoid overflow and indiscriminate dumping.

Also speaking, Barr. Akiba Ekpenyong commended the intervention, describing it as a timely support to the state government's urban renewal efforts. He called on residents to take ownership of the facilities and avoid acts that would undermine the cleanliness of their environment.

The lawmaker representing Calabar Municipality, who was present at the handover, lauded the synergy between federal interventions and state agencies, urging continuous dialogue to sustain a coordinated approach to urban sanitation.

C'River Pensioners Elect New Chairman as Outgoing Leader Bows Out with Great Commendations

Ukorebi Esien | September 10, 2025

CALABAR — The Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Cross River State Council, on Tuesday witnessed a historic leadership transition as retired Chief Magistrate, Comrade Fedilia Okpo Ene bowed out as Chairperson after two years in office, paving the way for Comrade Effiong Ita Umo to emerge as the new State Chairman.

The election and swearing-in ceremony, which took place in Calabar, was supervised by the Deputy National Secretary of NUP from Abuja, ensuring transparency and credibility. Reverend Eno Bolaji Anani was also elected Vice-Chairman of the council.

In her valedictory remarks, Okpo Ene expressed joy at completing for ability to lead the union thus far, describing her leadership journey as both challenging and rewarding. She highlighted her major achievement as securing the release of ₦10 billion by Governor Bassey Otu for the payment of gratuities owed pensioners.

"Governor Otu has been a labor-friendly and pensioner-friendly governor. He has never disappointed us, and I remain grateful to him till tomorrow. Pensioners are very vulnerable, yet he has placed our welfare at the heart of his administration," she said.

Explaining her decision to step down, the former magistrate noted that her recent appointment to the Board of State Universal Education Board, SUBEB, made it necessary to relinquish union leadership. She advised her successor to maintain dialogue with government, stressing that pensioners, as elder statesmen and women, must prioritize negotiation over confrontation.

"Please, don't be confrontational to government. Dialogue and plead as pensioners. His Excellency is open to our problems and has never been found wanting," Okunye counseled.

The supervising national officer, the Deputy National Secretary of NUP, urged members to avoid litigation in resolving union matters.

"Don't waste your time going to court. Dialogue remains the only way to settle disputes within the union. Litigation only drains resources and divides members," he advised.

On his part, the new State Chairman, Comrade Effiong Umo, a seasoned unionist and former Special Adviser on Labor Matters to the Cross River State Government, pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.

"Unionism is about dialogue, not confrontation. Pensioners deserve timely remittance of their pensions to keep them alive and comfortable. Governor Otu has set a good pace by paying pensions before civil servants' salaries. We will also push for the harmonization of pensions in line with the new minimum wage so that our members retain their bargaining power in the market," Umo stated

The election also saw one aspirant step down shortly before commencement of voting, acknowledging Umo's superior experience and suitability for the office. Nonetheless, ballots were cast to satisfy constitutional requirements before the results were formally declared and certificates of return issued.

Umo assured pensioners across the state of regular communication and cooperation with branch chairmen, promising to work closely with the outgoing leadership to consolidate on recorded gains.

Odukpani NYCN Confronts Drug Abuse, Cultism, Trains Women on Reusable Pad Production

Ukorebi Esien | September 10, 2025 

CALABAR —The Odukpani Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has taken its youth development drive to rural communities, confronting pressing social vices while empowering young women with life-changing skills.

As part of activities marking the Chapter's 2025 Youth Week, the council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Akiba, embarked on a four-hour journey to Atan Onoyom, a remote community in Eniong Abatim, where they held a town hall meeting that brought together youths from Ito, Obio Usiere, Asang Eniong, Isong Inyang Eniong, and Iboho Ito.

Addressing the gathering, Comrade Roland Akiba said the outreach was designed to extend NYCN's impact beyond urban centers by engaging grassroots youths on issues affecting their development. According to him, drug abuse, cultism, and other destructive practices continue to limit the potential of young people, and urgent intervention is necessary.

Resource persons delivered lectures and interactive sessions on the dangers of substance abuse, cult-related violence, and conflict resolution. In addition, the program featured a special empowerment session for young women, who were trained on personal hygiene and the production of reusable sanitary pads; an initiative aimed at tackling period poverty in the community.

The council distributed over 1,000 sanitary pads and further donated ₦100,000 to support ongoing youth-led initiatives within Atan Onoyom.

Community leaders, represented by Chief Effiong Ekot Eyibio on behalf of the traditional ruler, commended the NYCN for its historic visit, describing it as a timely intervention that would inspire positive change among local youths.

The Youth Week continues with a novelty football match between the NYCN and faith-based organizations, as well as the investiture of patrons and ambassadors of the council. This year's theme is "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond."

‘I Forgive Them’: NYCN Chair Opens Up on Attack, Survival and Vision for Youths

Ukorebi Esien  |  September 9, 2025

CALABAR —The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, has broken his silence following the recent attack on him in Obanliku Local Government Area, declaring that he has forgiven his alleged assailants and remains committed to advancing the cause of young people across the state.

The Youth leader who disclosed in a chat with newsmen at the Bassey Edet Otu Youth House recently in Calabar recounted how the incident left him hospitalized for days, but stressed that he bears no grudge against those suspected to have been behind the assault.

"I have chosen to forgive them because leadership is about service, not bitterness. Holding onto anger will not help us move forward as a people. Cross River youths deserve peace, unity and opportunities, and that is where my focus will remain," Olayi said.

Olayi informed that he decided to forgive his attackers after they showed remorse and took an undertaking not to be involved in such or any other detrimental action again. Adding that he believes his attackers must have learnt their lessons. 

The NYCN boss explained that while the attack was unfortunate, it has only strengthened his resolve to engage with stakeholders at all levels to secure a better future for young people. He informed that he had already met with national youth leaders in Abuja and held consultations in Calabar, with plans to convene a statewide youth conference aimed at addressing issues of restiveness, unemployment, drugs and substance abuse, and other forms of negative engagement affecting young people in the state.

He explained that the proposed conference would bring together government officials, security agencies, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, and the youths themselves to find lasting solutions to challenges fueling instability among young people.

"We cannot continue to ignore the realities. Many of our youths are idle, vulnerable, and sometimes used as tools for violence. This conference will provide a platform for dialogue and action to redirect their energy towards productive ventures," he stated.

Olayi further warned against the rising wave of restiveness among young people in parts of the state, noting that unemployment, lack of opportunities, and political manipulation were pushing many into violent acts.

"If urgent steps are not taken to engage our young people positively, we may begin to see more pockets of violence that could undermine peace and development. This is why the Youth Council is calling on government, community leaders, and development partners to work with us in addressing these challenges," he added.

On his vision for the NYCN, Olayi reaffirmed his commitment to repositioning the Council as a credible platform for youth participation in governance, entrepreneurship, and peacebuilding. He said the Council would deepen collaboration with relevant ministries, agencies, and non-governmental organisations to create programs that empower young people and harness their energy for development.

He also cautioned against internal sabotage and divisions within the youth body, insisting that such tendencies only weaken the collective voice of young people in the state.

"Our strength lies in unity. Whether from the north or south of Cross River, we are first of all young people with the same aspirations. I call on all youths to put aside personal differences and work together for the progress of our dear state," he said.

The meeting which drew the attention of journalists and youth stakeholders, comes just weeks after the Obanliku incident stirred concern across the state. 

Breaking: C'River Assembly Extends Suspension of Bekwarra Council Chairman

Ukorebi Esien September 9, 2025

CALABAR —The Cross River State House of Assembly has extended the suspension of the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Ms. Theresa Ushie, for another 90 days to allow its investigative committee conclude its probe into allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

Ushie was first suspended in June 2025 after eight councillors petitioned the Assembly, accusing her of corruption and maladministration. Following her suspension, the Vice Chairman, Mr. Egbung Odama, was sworn in as acting chairman.

Presenting an interim report during plenary on Thursday, Deputy Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Dr. Davies Etta, said the Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Public Resolution had engaged both parties and held a stakeholders' meeting in Bekwarra but needed more time to gather documentary evidence.

A motion to extend the suspension was moved by the member representing of Obubra 1 State Constituency and seconded by Hon. Francis Oban of Biase state Constituency. The House adopted the motion through a voice vote.

With the extension, the suspension now runs until December 2025, when the committee is expected to present a conclusive report.

Governor Otu and the Legacy of Merit: Choosing the Next HOS

Ukorebi Esien | September 9, 2025

As Cross River State inches closer to another important transition in its civil service hierarchy, all eyes are on Governor Bassey Edet Otu. With the imminent retirement of the current Head of Service (HOS), the question on the lips of civil servants, political actors, and stakeholders alike is simple: who next?

This decision is not just about filling a vacancy. It is about defining the Governor's legacy in the public service, a legacy that will either entrench the values of merit and discipline or reinforce the old habits of favoritism and convenience.

The Place of the Head of Service

The Head of Service is not a ceremonial position. It is the engine room of the civil service,  the bridge between policy and implementation, the guardian of discipline in the bureaucracy, and the chief custodian of rules that ensure government machinery runs smoothly.

In a state like Cross River, where fiscal prudence, service delivery, and accountability remain pressing concerns, the choice of who steps into that role could make or mar the Otu administration's People-First Agenda.

Governor Otu's Guiding Philosophy

Since assuming office, Governor Otu has consistently emphasized his belief in meritocracy, fairness, and discipline. His government has been careful to place competence above cronyism, and inclusivity above sectional interests.

This philosophy is expected to guide his decision on the next HOS. In a system where some civil servants rose by default or political patronage, Governor Otu has a golden opportunity to show that only those who diligently conformed to the civil service rules,  including writing the mandatory Compulsory Examination for Administrative and Professional Officers (COMPRO) — deserve to sit at the apex of the service.

By making this choice, Otu would be sending a clear message: in Cross River State, rules matter.

The Merit Argument

Many names may be whispered for the position, but merit should stand above sentiment. One name, however, continues to resonate across the corridors of governance — Hon. Chief Ajah Francis Ajah, mni.

Ajah's trajectory tells the story of a man who did not cut corners. He started from the bottom, wrote his examinations, climbed through the ranks, and complemented his career with sterling academic and professional qualifications; ICAN, NIM, CMCICM, and most notably, the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, where he emerged as a member of the Senior Executive Course 46.

As Permanent Secretary, he has proven capacity such as growing the state's reserve funds, reconciling debts to save billions, drafting fiscal laws that attracted international grants, and consistently positioning Cross River for global recognition in public finance management.

This is the kind of profile that embodies the Governor's taste for competence and discipline.

The Equity Factor

There is also the moral argument. Currently, the South Senatorial District holds the Chairmanship of the Civil Service Commission, the Local Government Service Commission, the Accountant-General, and the Auditor-General of the State.

For balance and equity, it is only just that the Central Senatorial District produces the next HOS. Within that axis, Ajah stands out not only as a product of merit but also as a symbol of fairness in the state's political arithmetic.

Legacy Moment for Governor Otu

Every administration is remembered for certain symbolic decisions. For Governor Otu, the appointment of the next Head of Service is one of those legacy moments.

Choosing a candidate who embodies meritocracy, discipline, and professionalism will not only boost the morale of hardworking civil servants but also reinforce his image as a leader who values competence over connections. It will assure the people of Cross River that his People-First Agenda is not just a slogan but a working philosophy.

In contrast, a choice rooted in sentiment would risk undoing years of effort at instilling discipline in the civil service.

Conclusion

The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Sen. Bassey Otu, has an opportunity to stamp his name in history as the leader who restored meritocracy to the civil service.

By appointing a Head of Service whose career reflects compliance with rules, intellectual depth, and practical experience; a man like Ajah Francis Ajah, mni , Otu will not just be filling a vacancy. He will be cementing a legacy.

A legacy of merit. A legacy of discipline. A legacy that future generations of civil servants will thank him for.

Ukorebi Esien 

is a public affairs analyst, detribalised peace advocate, and development journalist. He writes from Calabar, Cross River State.