Governor Otu to Receive Destiny Grand Commander Award as C'River Rebuilds for Greater Glory

Calabar is set to witness a night of history, honour, and destiny as the much-anticipated Destiny Cross River Awards 2025 holds on Tuesday, October 2ND, at the Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar.

At the heart of this year's celebration stands His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State, who will be conferred with the Destiny Grand Commander Award - the highest honour of the evening. This recognition comes as a tribute to his uncommon leadership in rebuilding Cross River from the ruins of neglect and desolation into a vibrant state now walking boldly on the path of recovery, greater glory, and sustainable progress.

Observers across the nation agree that Governor Otu has redefined leadership by quietly but resolutely fixing broken foundations, restoring the dignity of governance, and rekindling hope without resorting to excuses or blame. His stewardship is widely hailed as a "miracle of rebuilding," one that is steadily repositioning Cross River to reclaim its place of pride among the comity of states in Nigeria.

The Destiny Awards has quickly become one of the boldest platforms in Nigeria for celebrating landmark contributions to a people's prophetic destiny. The Organisers JBL Foundations in Conjunction with the Destiny Cross River Covenant Project Council describe it as "the best thing that has happened to Cross River and her destiny since the beginning of the millennium." Beyond the glamour, the event is designed to be a prophetic covenant moment; immortalising men and women whose lives, sacrifices, and visions have shifted the trajectory of the state's future.

Apart from Governor Otu, other eminent sons and daughters of Cross River will also be honoured for their legendary contributions. Among them are:

Chief Anthony Ani (CON), former Minister of Finance. He will be bestowed with the highest award on the Legends protocol category, for timeless and monumental sacrifices made in advancing the state's infrastructural, economic, social, cultural and political destiny for a period spanning over 6 decades. 

Prof. Kelvin Etta - Who will receive the iconic Destiny Patriarchal Defender Emeritus Award, for defending the soul of Cross River's intellectual and educational future, permanently changing the fortunes of the State in the University of Calabar and globally through his legendary selfless interventions and for raising leaders who now carry the torch of destiny.

Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, CON -

will be celebrated with the Destiny Patriarchal Laureate Award, for his iconic sacrifices in philanthropy, law and governance, laying down his brilliance as a covenant with justice to safeguard the dignity and destiny of Cross River not just locally but globally with an unflinching patriotic zeal. 

Speaking ahead of the event, Hon. Mike Mbang on behalf of the organisers - The Destiny Cross River Covenant Project Council, affirmed that this year's Awards will be "a historic gathering of trailblazers, a divine roll call of destiny-shapers, and a clarion call for Cross Riverians everywhere to rise, build, and bless the nations."

Attendance is expected to cut across government, business, the diplomatic corps, the church, academia, and the creative industries. Friends and followers of the Governor and the distinguished honourees in particular, are being urged to grace the occasion as a show of solidarity with champions of our collective destiny who have given their all to restore the state to greatness.

The Destiny Cross River Awards 2025 promises to be more than an event; it is a covenant night, a defining moment where history, prophecy, and destiny will converge.

2027: Re-elected PDP Organizing Secretary, Francis Ekeng Unveils Agenda to End Party Disunity

Ukorebi Esien | September 29, 2025

CALABAR -The re-elected Organising Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Mr. Francis Ekeng, has pledged to deepen transparency and inclusiveness in the party’s processes. He outlined fresh strategies to strengthen internal cohesion and prevent disunity as the PDP prepares for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with our correspondent, Ekeng said he was humbled by the confidence reposed in him by delegates, having secured 1,499 votes at the just-concluded state congress.

“This is a mandate I don’t take lightly. The organising secretary’s role is about fairness, balance, and inclusiveness. My duty is to ensure that all congresses, primaries, and mobilisations reflect the true spirit of democracy within our party,” he said.

Ekeng, who secured a second term during the party’s just-concluded state congress, said his mandate was both “humbling and an honour,” adding that it reflected the trust and confidence of party members in his leadership.

“This mandate is not just a recognition of my efforts, but also a testament to the trust and confidence the party members have in me to drive the party’s growth and success,” he stated.

With internal disagreements often threatening party stability, Ekeng stressed that one of his priorities would be fostering unity and averting avoidable litigations. He revealed plans to establish open communication channels, encourage dialogue to resolve grievances, and set up clear guidelines for party activities. Reflecting on his first tenure, Francis highlighted grassroots mobilisation, strong relationships with members, and adaptability as key lessons that will shape his second term.

“Internal democracy is the lifeblood of a political party. My duty is to ensure that our processes are transparent, inclusive, and credible,” he said.

Four-Year Agenda

Ekeng highlighted four key priorities for his second term:

• Strengthening Party Structures: Building a robust machinery to sustain the PDP.
• Membership Engagement: Giving greater voice to youths and women.
• Internal Cohesion: Promoting respect, fairness, and accountability among members.
• Electoral Success: Mobilising support and building strategies to ensure the PDP regains power in 2027.

He assured members that the new leadership would run an open, inclusive administration.

“To our members, especially the youth and women, I want to assure you that we are committed to building a strong and inclusive party that represents the interests of all members. Together, we can achieve great things and build a brighter future for our party and our state,” he said.

With Ekeng’s re-election, the PDP in Cross River now has a full 39-member state executive led by Chairman Venatius Ikem, re-elected for a second term, tasked with repositioning the party ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Political observers say Ekeng’s re-election and his call for inclusiveness could be crucial in repositioning the PDP as it seeks to reclaim dominance in Cross River politics ahead of the 2027 elections.

 

Destiny C'River Awards 2025: Otu, Ani, Etta, Agabi to Be Immortalised for Sacrifice and Patriotism

 

Our Reporter | September 28, 2025

CALABAR – Calabar is set for an unforgettable historic night as the Destiny Cross River Awards 2025 holds on Thursday, October 2ND, at Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar.

In an age where selfishness, greed, and corruption have eaten deep into the fabric of society, the Destiny Awards has emerged as the loudest statement yet for patriotism, sacrifice, and the common good. It is a platform that immortalises men whose lives have been poured out as prices paid for the actualization of the prophetic destiny of Cross River State.

At the pinnacle of the evening, His Excellency, SENATOR PRINCE BASSEY EDET OTU, Executive Governor of Cross River, will be conferred with the Destiny Grand Commander Award. He is being recognised for his courageous, selfless leadership in carrying the burden of rebuilding Cross River from years of desolation, and for restoring the State on the path of greater glory without excuses.

Other apex honours of the night will go to three legendary patriarchs whose names are inscribed in the chronicles of destiny:

CHIEF ANTHONY ANI, CON - Destiny Grand Patriarch Award, for standing as a worthy pillar of progress, wisdom and sacrifice through the years, paying prices that advanced the State’s economic and developmental destiny.

PROF. KELVIN ETTA - Destiny Patriarchal Defender Emeritus Award, for defending the soul of Cross River’s intellectual and educational future,   permanently changing the fortunes of the State in the University of Calabar and globally through his legendary selfless interventions and for raising leaders who now carry the torch of destiny.

CHIEF KANU GODWIN AGABI, SAN, CON - Destiny Patriarchal Laureate Award, for his iconic sacrifices in philanthropy, law and governance, laying down his brilliance as a covenant with justice to safeguard the dignity and destiny of Cross River.

Speaking on the significance of the Awards, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Hon. Mike Mbang declared:

“The Destiny Cross River Awards is the biggest statement we have made in recent times as a people. It is a bold celebration of patriotism and historic sacrifice at a time when selfishness and greed dominate our nation. These men are not being honoured for what they achieved for themselves, but for what they gave up, what they defended, and the prices they paid so Cross River can move closer to her prophetic destiny.”

According to him, the Awards is not just a ceremony, but a covenant moment, where the sacrifices of true patriots will be immortalised as a guiding light for future generations.

The organisers; The Destiny Cross River Covenant Project Council described the night as a “roll call of greatness” and a prophetic convergence where history and destiny meet. They called on the people of Cross River, as well as friends and admirers of the honourees across Nigeria, to gather in Calabar and stand as witnesses to a night where patriotism is rewarded, sacrifice is honoured, and destiny is sealed. 

Vena Ikem Re-Elected PDP Chairman in C'River State

Ukorebi Esien I  September 27, 2025

CALABAR – Barr.  Venatius Ikem has been re-elected as the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State for a second term, following a peaceful and well-attended state congress held in Calabar.

The exercise, which took place in Calabar, witnessed a large turnout of delegates from across the 18 local government areas of the state and was widely described as transparent, peaceful, and orderly

Announcing the results, the State Electoral Commissioner of Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, declared Mr. Venatius Ikem re-elected as State Chairman with 1,541 votes along side 38 other state executive council members 

Speaking after his re-election, Ikem described his second mandate as "a new charge to rethink the party, refine its vision, and strengthen its structures for victory in future elections." He dismissed criticisms of his first tenure, insisting that his leadership sustained the PDP during turbulent times and kept it politically relevant in the state.

"I didn't bring the party from top to bottom. What I did was to sustain it and reposition it to remain on ground. Now, this is a new course for us to correct ourselves and move forward toward ultimate success," he said.

Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, who was present at the congress, described the exercise as "the only legitimate congress" of the PDP in the state. He noted that it was conducted in line with the party's constitution and the decision of its National Executive Committee (NEC), stressing that "there is no alternative or parallel process."

Sandy Onor: "All ingredients of success present"

Senator Sandy Onor, also present at the event, described the congress as a model of accountability and transparency.

"All the ingredients of success have been epitomised here today. We had a full house of delegates, a proper panel duly certified by the National Working Committee, and everything was done with accountability and transparency," he said.

Onor urged members to close ranks and rally behind the new leadership to strengthen the PDP's chances of reclaiming power from the ruling APC.

The newly elected executive, led by Ikem, is expected to reposition the PDP in the state and prepare it for the 2027 general elections, with a strong emphasis on unity, grassroots mobilisation, and internal reconciliation.

Jarigbe Hails PDP Congress as Legitimate, Dismisses Doubts Over Process

Ukorebi Esien I September 27, 2025

CALABAR —Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has described the just-concluded state congress of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River as both legitimate and credible, stressing that there was no alternative or parallel process to undermine its validity.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the exercise, Jarigbe said he was satisfied with the conduct of the congress, noting that it was calm, well-organised, and reflective of the will of party members.

"It is a legitimate congress. There is no alternative. This is the only congress," he stated firmly, when asked to clarify his use of the term "legitimate."

The lawmaker dismissed speculations that some groups within the party had sought to stop the congress, insisting that such voices were "incompetent to take that decision." Citing a popular legal maxim, he said: "In law, you cannot put something on nothing. That is disregarded."

When asked what would happen if any faction or group sought to challenge the outcome in court, Jarigbe maintained that the process was in strict alignment with the party's constitution and therefore unassailable.

"This congress holding today is predicated on NEC's decision. That's why we are holding this congress. I don't think there is any group that can go to court or challenge this in any way," he affirmed.

On whether the exercise will strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, the senator expressed optimism. "Very, very well. We chose very capable men and women to run the affairs of the party. So we are good to go," he said.

Jarigbe also addressed his past disagreements with the state chairman of the party, saying such issues had since been resolved amicably. "We had some disagreements, but we resolved it as a family. So we are good to go," he assured.

In his post-election remarks, the re-elected State Chairman, Venatius Ikem, said the congress offered the party an opportunity to rebuild and reposition itself.

The congress, which produced Venacious Ikem as chairman for a second term, is expected to reposition the PDP in Cross River State as the party prepares to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next electoral cycle.

Archbishop Josef Bassey Premieres C'River Destiny Awards to Promote Patriotism

Ukorebi Esien September 27, 2025

CALABAR —The Archbishop of Calabar and Spiritual Leader of God's Heritage Global Mission, His Eminence Archbishop Josef Bassey has called on Cross Riverians to be patriotic and be ready to sacrifice towards the actualisation of what he described as the Prophetic Destiny of Cross River State.

Speaking yesterday in Calabar while addressing a cross section of pressman, to mark his birthday, Archbishop Bassey unveiled the Premier edition of the Destiny Cross River Awards, a new initiative meant to celebrate landmark contributions to the social, moral and institutional rebirth of Cross River State. The inaugural ceremony is scheduled for 2 October 2025. He framed the awards as more than a ceremony,  but a deliberate attempt to define and pursue a corporate destiny for Cross River State, to immortalize selfless sacrifices and to inspire generations to come. He said the awards will be selective with just four categories at the premiere edition and will focus on figures whose long-term contribution has materially advanced the state's recovery and prospects.

"A birthday for me is not just about celebration; it is about purpose. Just as individuals have destinies, so do states. We must understand that destiny, align with it, and be willing to pay the price to see it fulfilled," Archbishop Bassey said.

Archbishop Bassey named four primary honourees for the maiden edition, saying the choices followed careful examination of records and contributions rather than partisan or opportunistic motives. Adding that the choice of the four honourees had nothing to do with politics even though some of them are politicians, but their exceptional contributions towards the actualisation of the Prophetic Destiny of the State. 

According to the father of faith, the four persons are;

His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State — honoured for leading what the Archbishop described as a painstaking process of institutional rebuilding and restoration after a period of severe institutional decay. 

Chief Anthony Ani — described as a patriarch of the state's development whose long years of public service and private sacrifice have helped shape Cross River's institutions.

Professor Kelvin Etta — recognised for his intellectual and civic contributions.

Sir Kanu Agabi — acknowledged as a legal luminary and statesman whose influence has guided public life in the state.

On Governor Otu's inclusion, Archbishop Bassey was emphatic that the award is not a political endorsement. Instead, he said, the governor's work, especially on salvaging and rebuilding state assets and institutions  merited public commendation because it returned the state from what the Archbishop termed "a dark season" toward a functioning, accountable government. Adding that Otu took over the  power when every sector of the state had collapsed due to mismanagement by the previous administration. But in less than two years Otu had not only transformed the state but dare to thread the part many wouldn't want to. He said the governor unlike his predecessors deliberately continue and completed projects of past administrations saving cost for the state.

"It takes a secure leader to invest in rebuilding rather than chasing personal glory," he said, urging citizens to recognise repairs and recovery work even if such projects do not generate headline-making monuments.

Addressing criticism and the nepotism charge

The Archbishop used part of his address to respond to circulating criticism about alleged regional favouritism in appointments and government programmes. While acknowledging heightened public sensitivity about appointments and distribution of resources, he challenged critics to produce concrete evidence of statutory breaches.

He stressed that civil service appointments follow statutory and procedural steps and that where those procedures were observed, questions of "nepotism" must be weighed against facts and records. He described demands that lack documentary backing as "mischief" and urged a more balanced, historically informed reading of appointment patterns.

The role of the church and civic leadership

The Archbishop defended the role of churches in public life, arguing they often function as community governments that deliver social cohesion and practical support where formal institutions are weak. He said the church's daily work in counselling, training and community organisation fills gaps that government cannot always reach, and urged that secular actors learn from the church's capacity to organise communities.

He also warned against reducing public leadership to mere political officeholding. "No nation is built by politicians alone," he said, insisting that patriots, citizens prepared to sacrifice for posterity remain the true architects of sustained national progress.

Editorial note

The Premier Destiny Cross River Awards, as described by Archbishop Josef Bassey, positions itself at the confluence of commemorative recognition and civic pedagogy: it seeks to reward those who have repaired institutions and to model a culture of selfless, long-term service rather than short-term gain. Whether the awards will shift public discourse or prompt greater interest in civic duty will depend on follow-through by the Foundation, the transparency of the awards process in subsequent editions, and how the event navigates the inevitable political readings that accompany public recognition of sitting officeholders.

Remove Paramount Ruler Now, Henshaw Town Acting President Tells Gov. Otu

Ukorebi Esien I September 26, 2025

CALABAR, – The Acting President of the Henshaw Town Council (HTC), Etubom Ekpo Nsa Ekeng, has issued a strong call to Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu to immediately remove Etubom Nyong Effiom Okon as Clan Head and Paramount Ruler of Calabar South, accusing him of land grabbing, intimidation, and frustrating peace efforts in the community.

Ekeng's demand comes on the heels of the failed peace meeting tagged "Nkot Mbok Nsidung 2025", which he convened on Thursday, September 25, 2025, to reconcile factions of the council. The gathering was aborted when the Paramount Ruler allegedly hijacked the venue, convened a parallel meeting, and ensured security operatives barred Ekeng's team from entering the council secretariat. Seven persons, including one Etubom, were arrested by the Anti-Cultism Squad in the process.

In a press release, Ekeng insisted that Okon who  had been removed as President of Henshaw Town Council in 2019 after a court ruling and later expelled from the council, has been illegitimately parading himself as leader, creating fear among residents and investors.

"If a government-certified clan head is found to be land grabbing, extorting people and investors, intimidating and overreaching their authority… such a clan head should be stripped of that authority, made to return land, property, and extortion money to the rightful owner, and punished to deter others," he declared.

Documents backing his claims—including the 2019 court judgment, a newspaper notice of expulsion, and petitions to police authorities were attached to his statement.

HRM Etubom Nyong Efiom Okon, the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South LGA, however, has defended his intervention, reportedly stating that he acted to maintain peace and ensure a more inclusive reconciliation process.

Despite his defense, community members and Ekeng are united in their call for state intervention.

"We call on the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Prince Bassey Edet Otu, to intervene in the crisis in Henshaw Town Council and remove Etubom Nyong Effiom Okon as Clan Head and Paramount Ruler," the statement concluded.

The escalating dispute has heightened fears of instability in Calabar South, with observers warning that only decisive action from the state government can end the protracted crisis.

PDP Crisis Deepens as Zonal Committee Confirms Postponement of C'River Congress

Ukorebi Esien I September 26, 2025

CALABAR — The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State deepened on Thursday following conflicting statements over the conduct of the state congress earlier scheduled for Saturday, 27th September 2025

While the South-South Zonal Caretaker Committee, backed by the party's National Working Committee (NWC), announced a postponement of the exercise, the State Deputy Secretary of the party, Mr. Joseph Ese, insisted the congress would still go ahead as planned.

Speaking in Calabar, during a meeting between Members of the South South Zonal Caretaker Committee and statekholders of the party in Cross River State, Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Mr. Emmanuel Ogidi, confirmed that the NWC had taken the decision to shift the exercise in Cross River and Plateau States. He explained that the move was to ensure order and fairness in the process, stressing that "you don't do congress when there is confusion."

Members of the South South Zonal Caretaker Committee during the meeting with stakeholders in Calabar 

According to him, reports of a purported injunction against the exercise, allegedly obtained by one Nabuchadze, were false and only circulated on social media.

"Where did they get that injunction? They are seeing it online. The party is not run on social media, and the court does not run the party either. The Supreme Court has ruled that internal party affairs are governed by the constitution of the party once its rules are followed," Gidi stated.

He further clarified that the NWC is empowered by the PDP constitution to take decisions on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), subject to later ratification. "The NWC implements the decisions of the party's highest organs and can also take decisions in their absence. These decisions are subsequently ratified by NEC or the convention," he said.

A Cross Section of PDP Stakeholders during
 a recent meeting held in Calabar with members of the South South Zonal Caretaker Committee members 

Ogidi also warned that any parallel congress organized outside the authority of the NWC would not be recognized, noting that materials for the exercise remain under the control of the recognized party leadership.

However, in a counter position, State Deputy Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Joseph Ese, dismissed claims that the congress had been suspended. He maintained that the convention would still hold, insisting that "a group of persons identified as coordinators and members of the ADC cannot dictate for our party."

Ese explained that issues that would have led to the suspension had already been resolved at the national level in Abuja, adding that internal crises in politics are often settled even at the "eleventh hour."

"It is too early to conclude that the congress will not hold because of issues that can be resolved even at the last moment," he argued.

The conflicting positions have left party faithful in Cross River State uncertain, with some members aligning with the zonal caretaker committee's directive while others insist on proceeding with the state exercise.

Political analysts warn that the disagreement is an indication of the fragile state of the PDP in Cross River, which has struggled to regain cohesion since losing the governorship to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023.

As of press time, no new date has been fixed for the rescheduled congress by the NWC, while the state secretariat insists preparations for Saturday's exercise remain intact.

Nsemo Dismisses Protest, Says Ikot Ishie Safe in Governor Otu’s Hands

Ukorebi Esien | September 25, 2025

CALABAR — The lawmaker representing Calabar Municipality in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Stanley Nsemo, has reassured residents of Ikot Ishie (Ward 6) that the community remains a top priority of Governor Bassey Otu's administration, dismissing recent protests as misguided.

In a statement issued in Calabar, Nsemo clarified that neither the leaders nor the elders of Ward 6 and Ishie Clan sanctioned the protest, adding that although the grievances raised will be addressed, they do not reflect the reality of Governor Otu's inclusiveness.

"To suggest that Ikot Ishie has been sidelined in the administration of His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, is a narrative that does not align with the evident facts," Nsemo said.

He listed several key appointments of indigenes of Ikot Ishie as evidence of the Governor's fairness and confidence in the community's competence. They include:

Chief Victor-Felix Idem, Commissioner for Local Government Affairs

Dr. Esu Effiong Esu, former Chairman of SUBEB

Hon. Stanley Nsemo, Member representing Calabar Municipality in the House of Assembly

Elder Terrence Eyo, Chairman, Technical Education Board

Barr. Eyoma Ededet, Federal Commissioner in the Federal Civil Service Commission

According to the lawmaker, these positions "are not mere tokens but testaments to the confidence Governor Otu has in the competence of our people." He stressed that the redeployment of an Ikot Ishie son from SUBEB was purely administrative and not an act of victimization.

Nsemo also reminded residents that Ward 6 gave Governor Otu the highest votes in Calabar Municipality during the 2023 elections, saying the community's trust in the Governor's People First agenda has not been misplaced.

"I urge everyone to see beyond a single appointment. The administration of Governor Otu is laying a foundation for sustainable development, and Ikot Ishie is primed to benefit significantly. Better things are indeed coming," he stated.

Calling for patience and unity, the lawmaker invoked an ancient proverb of the clan: "eyen ikot ishie isi yamkpe idiok udua" (the child of Ikot Ishie does not sell a bad market). He pledged to continue defending the interests of his ward and Calabar Municipality at large.

"To His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, sir, we are with you today, tomorrow and always," Nsemo affirmed, conveying the regards of his father, Ntufam Felix Okon Nsemo, and other elders of the clan.

₦800m Empowerment: Otu Moves Youth from Militancy to Agriculture

Ukorebi Esien |  September 24, 2025

CALABAR — Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to peacebuilding and food security with the empowerment of 400 citizens, including 200 repentant agitators, who graduated from an intensive agricultural training programme at CSS Farms, Nasarawa State.

At the graduation and empowerment ceremony held in Calabar, Governor Otu disbursed the sum of ₦800 million as start-up grants, that is ₦2 million each to the beneficiaries, describing the gesture not as charity, but as "a value-laden investment in humanity."

The Governor said the empowerment initiative was deliberately structured to redirect the energy of young people, especially former members of the Bakassi Defence Force, from militancy into productive agricultural ventures.

"Today's empowerment programme is primarily targeted at redirecting the strength and energy of our youths from destructive to productive ventures. Any failure to properly harness the potentials of our youths leaves them vulnerable to antisocial vices that threaten peace and development," Otu stated.

He explained that the agricultural value chain was chosen for its cascading benefits to the state economy and its role in ensuring food sufficiency before the end of his tenure.

The Governor also highlighted previous empowerment programmes of his administration, including the disbursement of ₦2 billion to vulnerable households under the FADAMA NG-CARES programme, provision of 100 commercial boats to riverine communities, retirees' entrepreneurship grants, and a ₦1 billion partnership with Sterling Bank to support SMEs.

Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbe, described the initiative as part of a broader policy to reduce poverty, create jobs, and strengthen entrepreneurship in Cross River. He commended Governor Otu's People First leadership for approving the empowerment package, noting that monitoring committees have been set up across the three senatorial districts to ensure judicious use of the funds.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Governor. Solomon Hussain, speaking on behalf of the ex-agitators, pledged loyalty to the state government, assuring that they would not return to militancy. Similarly, Mary Ekuri, representing women beneficiaries, said the training had equipped them with skills in food processing, packaging, and value addition, which would improve their families' livelihoods and contribute to the state's economy.

The Cross River State Government has also expanded empowerment into ICT, with the training of 100 young people in programming and web development, as well as collaborations with national and international partners including the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Governor Otu concluded that the programme underscored his administration's strategic focus on peace, productivity, and food security:

"This is not about handouts. It is about investing in our people, empowering them to become relevant to themselves, their families, and to society. Our target is food sufficiency and peace in Cross River State."