Prince 7 Calls for Non-Politicization of Peace Efforts, Advocates Youth Inclusion on International Day of Peace

Ukorebi Esien– September 21, 2025

CALABAR –Prince Godswill Edward Osim, popularly known as Prince 7, has called for the strengthening of traditional institutions and the depoliticization of peace processes as a means of addressing the recurring communal and security challenges in Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

In a statement marking the 2025 International Day of Peace, Prince Edward, whose father, HRH Asodor Edward Osim, is the Paramount Ruler of Abi LGA and Chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, reflected on the devastating impact of conflicts on local communities. He recounted how his father's palace was once bombed during a violent crisis and later rebuilt—an experience that deepened his personal commitment to peace and reconciliation.

According to him, many of the crises that have plagued Abi and other parts of Cross River are sustained by the over-politicization of peace processes. He emphasized that politicians must resist the temptation to exploit conflicts for political gain.

"We must give peace a chance. We must intentionally look into our traditional structures to ensure that the mediators of peace are restored in our communities, and the process is not politicized," Prince Edward said.

He lamented that young people often bear the brunt of violence, both as active participants and as casualties.

"Most times, it is the youth who fight these wars, spill blood, and in turn suffer the most—losing lives, education, and opportunities. This is not the right approach. Our future cannot continue to be mortgaged on the altar of avoidable violence," he added.

Prince Edward also raised concerns over the proliferation of light arms and weapons in Nigeria, warning that weapons purchased during communal conflicts often end up being misused for armed robbery and other crimes long after hostilities end. He called for tighter regulation and coordinated action to address the circulation of illicit arms.

Highlighting Bahumono community in Abi as an example of reconciliation, he noted that peace was restored there after deliberate sacrifices were made and the people chose to put community interest above personal grudges.

He therefore urged continuous advocacy, peace education, and grassroots engagements such as town hall meetings as effective mechanisms for resolving communal disputes without resorting to violence.

"We must keep advocating, keep preaching peace, and keep talking to one another. Dialogue and mediation, not war, should guide us in addressing our communal problems," Prince Edward stressed.

The International Day of Peace, established by the United Nations, is observed annually on September 21 to strengthen the ideals of peace both within and among nations and peoples. This year's theme is "Act Now, for a Peaceful World".

Prince Edward, who is widely known for his youth empowerment initiatives and peace advocacy under the Prince 7 Movement, said the observance of the Peace Day should serve as a reminder that Cross River State and Nigeria can only thrive when dialogue, justice, and inclusion replace violence, marginalization, and division.

Enough Is Enough: Cross River Youth Commissioner Calls for End to Violence, Champions Peace on International Day of Peace

Ukorebi Esien | September 21, 2025 

CALABAR – The Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Development and Skill Acquisition, Barr. Odum-Ijom Ukam, has made a passionate call for peace in the state, declaring that "enough is enough" as he urged young people to shun violence and embrace dialogue on the occasion of the 2025 International Day of Peace.

Speaking in a statement issued in Calabar on Sunday, the Commissioner said this year's United Nations theme, "Partnerships for Peace: Dignity for All," aligns with the government's commitment to promote inclusion, tolerance, and cooperation as pillars of sustainable development.

"On behalf of the Ministry of Youth Development and Skill Acquisition, I reaffirm the unwavering commitment of Cross River State to fostering a culture of peace and non-violence, especially among our young people who are the heartbeat of our society," Ukam stated.

He emphasized that the future of Cross River cannot continue to be undermined by recurring clashes that disproportionately affect young people. According to him, youths are too often caught in the center of communal violence across Abi, Biase, Obubra, Boki, Yala, Obudu, and boundary communities.

"They are sometimes drawn into these conflicts as fighters, yet more painfully, they suffer the greatest losses: lost lives, disrupted education, displacement, and shattered dreams," the Commissioner lamented.

Declaring an end to the cycle of violence, Ukam said: "As Commissioner for Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, I stand today to say: enough is enough. The future of our dear state cannot continue to be mortgaged on the altar of avoidable violence."

The Commissioner outlined the state's strategy to build peace through youth engagement, which includes civic education, digital literacy, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and support for Peace Clubs in schools and communities.

"Our Ministry is committed to engaging young people as peacebuilders, not perpetrators of violence, through civic education, skills development, and dialogue platforms," he explained. "We will expand youth empowerment programmes so that poverty and unemployment no longer become weapons in the hands of conflict entrepreneurs."

Ukam also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and political stakeholders to discourage violence and instead safeguard the future of young people.

"Every time we encourage violence, it is our sons and daughters and our youths who pay the highest price. Let us therefore protect their future by investing in peace today," he appealed.

In line with the People First Agenda of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Ukam assured that the Ministry will continue to prioritize youth development as a cornerstone of peace and sustainable growth.

He concluded with a strong message to the youth: "On this International Day of Peace, I call on our young people: choose peace, choose dialogue, choose development. Your voices matter. Your energy is powerful. Use it to build the Cross River of our dreams."

The International Day of Peace, established by the United Nations in 1981, is marked globally every September 21 to strengthen the ideals of peace both within and among nations.

Ex-Lawmaker, NUJ to Establish Beatrice Bassey Ita Memorial Foundation and Tourist Media Centre in Calabar

Our Reporter  | September 20, 2025

CALABAR —The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in partnership with Senator Princess Florence Ita-Giwa, has concluded plans to officially establish the Beatrice Bassey Ita Tourist Media Centre and Memorial Foundation in Calabar, in honour of the late veteran journalist, broadcaster, and media icon, Mrs. Beatrice Bassey Ita.

The initiative is designed to immortalize Mrs. Ita's invaluable contributions to journalism, broadcasting, and public service, while also creating a vibrant hub for research, mentorship, tourism, and professional development for journalists, students, researchers, and media enthusiasts.

Announcing the vision for the project in Calabar, the National President of NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, said the centre will stand as a beacon of knowledge, inspiration, and cultural heritage.

He was accompanied by the Vice President of Zone F, Comrade Dokubo Opaka; NAWOJ National President, Hajia Aisha Ibrahim; Chairman of NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey and her Exco members, as well as the Special Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on Public Affairs, Comrade Gill Nsa, during a courtesy visit to Senator Ita-Giwa at her Calabar residence.

According to Yahaya:"The Beatrice Bassey Ita Tourist Media Centre and Memorial Foundation will provide access to books, archives, multimedia resources, tourism experiences, and training opportunities, all aimed at inspiring the next generation of communicators and storytellers. 

Through this project, NUJ seeks to preserve the legacy of Beatrice Bassey Ita as a trailblazer who dedicated her life to journalism and the empowerment of women in the media."

The NUJ President further noted that his visit coincides with the Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Journalists Award, scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, an annual award instituted to celebrate excellence in journalism and honour the memory of the late media icon.

In her remarks, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa described the NUJ President's presence in Calabar as both historic and a homecoming, noting that the project is a befitting tribute to her late mother.

She recalled her mother as a woman of rare character, discipline, and foresight who combined firmness with love, and whose passion for education, community service, and moral uprightness greatly influenced her family and society at large.

Senator Ita-Giwa added:"My mother used her pen and profession to build bridges,she believed deeply in truth, justice, and fairness,values that continue to guide her children and all who came in contact with her. 

"The establishment of this centre will serve as a place of learning, tourism, and reflection, where young people, journalists, and researchers can draw inspiration from her legacy of integrity, resilience, and service to humanity."

She further assured that she would make available all her mother's works, artefacts, and memorabilia to enrich the new centre.

The NUJ delegation, led by its President, later visited the tomb of the late Mrs. Beatrice Bassey Ita, at Mcdonald Street area Calabar South Local Government, where prayers were offered in her memory.

NUJ Set to Host Beatrice Ita Best Investigative Journalist Award in Calabar

Ukorebi Esien | September 19, 2025

CALABAR — The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, in collaboration with Distinguished Senator Princess Florence Ita-Giwa, OON, has concluded plans to host the 5th edition of the Late Beatrice Bassey Ita Best Investigative Journalist Award in Calabar.

The prestigious award, instituted in memory of the late prolific journalist Beatrice Bassey Ita, popularly known by her sobriquet "The Pen is Mightier than the Sword", is sustained annually by her daughter, Senator Ita-Giwa, to promote excellence in investigative reporting and celebrate media practitioners who embody courage, truth, and integrity in journalism.

According to the organizers, this year's edition will hold on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the August Royal Hotel, State Housing Estate, Calabar, by 5:00 p.m.

The event has lined up an array of dignitaries from across the country. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Professor Florence Banku Obi, will serve as Chairman of the occasion, while Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, OFR, CON, will deliver the keynote lecture.

The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Apostle Senator Prince Bassey Otu, will grace the ceremony as Special Guest of Honour, while the Obong of Calabar and Grand Patriarch of the Efik Kingdom, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, will be honoured as Father of the Day.

In a show of solidarity with the journalism profession, the National Presidents of the NUJ and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) are also expected to be in attendance.

Speaking ahead of the event, Senator Ita-Giwa said the award is not just a memorial to her late mother but a platform to inspire journalists to uphold the values of investigative journalism in nation-building.

"My mother, Beatrice Ita, believed strongly in journalism as a force for accountability and social justice. Through this award, we are sustaining her legacy and encouraging young reporters to remain fearless, ethical, and committed to truth," she stated.

The Beatrice Ita Best Investigative Journalist Award has, since inception, become a benchmark of professional recognition in Nigeria's media space, honouring journalists who have made outstanding contributions to investigative reporting.

This year's edition promises to be another milestone celebration of integrity, professionalism, and the enduring power of the pen.

C'River’s Prince Edward to be Honored at Abuja Platinum Lions Club Investiture Ceremony

Prince Godswill Edward Osim. 

Ukorebi Esien  | September 19, 2025

ABUJA — Prince Godswill Edward Osim, popularly known as Prince 7, is set to be honored by the Abuja Platinum Lions Club for his outstanding contributions to youth empowerment, community development, and nation-building.

The recognition will be conferred during the 2025/2026 Fifty Million Naira Fundraising and Investiture Ceremony of Lion Chika Nwagwu as the club's 3rd President. The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Nafil Arcade and Water Parks,  Abuja, by 3PM prompt.

The dynamic leader and dedicated public servant, has consistently demonstrated commitment to public service. As Special Adviser on Sports and Cinematography to former Cross River State Governor Ben Ayade, he championed sports development and cultural growth. Later, as Special Adviser on Youth Development, he expanded his reach by promoting leadership and nurturing young talents across the state.

Key Policy Focus Areas

Rural Transformation: Bridging the urban-rural divide through targeted development initiatives.

Industrialization: Promoting industrial growth to stimulate economic development and job creation.

Generational Shift in Leadership: Championing youth involvement and merit-based governance for a more inclusive leadership structure.

PHILANTHROPIC INITIATIVES

Through his Prince 7 Youth Development Initiative, Edward has launched groundbreaking programs such as:

Give Them Balls, Not Guns: Engaging young people in rural communities through sports and education.

Pad the Girl Child: Supporting girls' education and empowerment.

Skill the Boy and Girl Child: Providing vital skills training.

Ladies Lead Directors (LLDs): Empowering women for leadership roles.

Youth Create: Promoting creativity and innovation.

Students Union Leadership Summit: Building leadership capacity among students.

Educate Africa: Advocating for education and continental development.

Project RREP: Rehabilitation, Reorientation, Empowerment, and Positioning of vulnerable groups.

OTHER POLITICAL EXPERIENCE

Edward has also ventured into frontline politics:

He contested for the Federal House of Representatives in 2019, to represent Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency.

He served in the Presidential Campaign Council under the Trade and Economic Directorate of the APC.

In 2023, he declared interest in the Cross River State governorship race, focusing on tourism, rural transformation, and industrialization.

Through his multifaceted initiatives, Prince Edward continues to inspire and uplift communities, embodying leadership, resilience, and service to humanity.

Speaking on the forthcoming ceremony, Lion Chika Nwagwu, the incoming President of Abuja Platinum Lions Club, said the club is committed to recognizing individuals like Prince Edward, whose work reflects the spirit of service and community development that Lionism represents.

With the theme "In Lionism, We Serve!", the Abuja Platinum Lions Club reaffirms its mission of driving positive change through service, leadership, and philanthropy.

Fubara Returns to Port Harcourt, Addresses Rivers People

Ukorebi Esien |  September 19, 2025

PORT HARCOURT — Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday made a triumphant return to Port Harcourt following the lifting of the six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March.

Fubara, who arrived at Port Harcourt International Airport at 12:19 p.m., was received by a massive crowd of jubilant supporters who sang solidarity songs and waved placards in his honour.

Addressing the people shortly after his return, the governor said:

"I am deeply touched by the overwhelming show of love from Rivers people. This victory is not mine alone—it belongs to all of you who stood firm in faith and resilience. Together, we will rebuild our dear state."

From the airport, Fubara proceeded in a motorcade to Government House, Port Harcourt, where he assured residents that he would deliver a state broadcast at 6:00 p.m.

"In my broadcast, I will outline our next line of action for peace and progress. I will also recognise every person and institution that stood by us in this struggle for normalcy. Rivers deserves stability, and by God's grace, we will not fail," he declared.

Recall that President Tinubu had declared emergency rule on March 18, 2025, following a protracted political crisis between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. The crisis spiralled into violent clashes and impeachment threats, forcing the President to appoint retired Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator.

Fubara's return comes days after reports of a truce between him and Wike, which paved the way for the restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State.

Many residents have welcome the governor's return with optimism.

One supporter, speaking on phone with our reporter said.

"We waited for this day. The governor's return gives us hope that Rivers will be peaceful again."

Another resident added:

"All we want is good governance and unity. We believe Governor Fubara has learned from this crisis and will focus on development."

With his state broadcast set for this evening, Rivers people are keenly awaiting the governor's message of reconciliation and the roadmap for governance after months of political turbulence.

Duke Pays Tribute to Late Hon. Asuquo Ekeng, Describes Him as a Grassroots Pillar

Ukorebi Esien  | September 20, 2025:

CALABAR —The Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. (Otuekong) Orok Otu Duke, has paid glowing tribute to the late Hon. Asuquo Ekeng William Andem, popularly known as Wakilo, who passed away on June 20, 2025, at the age of 60.

Speaking shortly after the funeral held in Calabar South, Rt. Hon. Duke described the deceased as "a true grassroots mobilizer, a pillar of Ward 4 politics in Calabar South, and a loyal ally whose contributions remain etched in the political history of Calabar South and Cross River State at large."

Late Hon. Asuquo Ekeng William Andem, until his demise, was a former Councillor for Ward 4 in Calabar South and served as Supervisory Councillor for Budget and Planning between 2003 and 2007. He also held several political positions, including Special Assistant to the Governor on Culture and Tourism, Board Member of Forestry, and Coordinator of "YES AYADE" Political Movement. He later became the Director-General of the People Liberation Alliance (PLA), a political platform that gave voice to the grassroots.

Rt. Hon. Duke, recalling their political partnership, said:

"He was the APC Ward 4 Elections Coordinator, while I served as the Calabar South Local Government Coordinator, and together we delivered the highest votes in the 2023 elections. He was a dependable partner, disciplined leader, and a community man to the core. His loss is a painful one, not only to his family but to all of us who worked closely with him."

The NDDC Commissioner further pledged to stand by the family of the deceased, assuring them of continued support in the education and welfare of the underaged children he left behind.

The funeral was attended by political leaders, family members, friends, and associates, all of whom described Wakilo as a man of many parts — a sportsman, politician, family man, and problem solver, whose humility and service to humanity will be deeply missed.

Late Hon. Asuquo Ekeng William Andem is survived by his wife, Mrs. Margaret Asuquo Ekeng, two sons, a stepson, brothers, sisters, cousins, and extended family members.

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.