Jarigbe: Exodus Looms as PDP Cross River North Stakeholders Declare Support for Tinubu, Gov Otu

 Judex OKORO  | October 29, 2025

CALABAR – A sweeping political shift is gathering momentum in Cross River North senatorial district, as influential stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have signaled plans to defect en masse to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in solidarity with Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. 

Recall that on October 22, 2025 Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Senator representing Cross River North, had on October 22, 2025 visited Aso Rock Villa to officially inform President Bola Tinubu of his defection to the ruling party.

Jarigbe followed it up with a visit to Cross River State chairman of APC, Alphonsus Eba, Esq, also notifying him of his defection and readiness to work with the leadership to reposition the party in the northern senatorial district.

And in continuation of his consultation, Jarigbe convened a strategic meeting in Abuja with top PDP figures from the zone to review the political landscape and chart a new direction. 

The move, if finalized, is expected to significantly alter the political equation in the northern senatorial zone ahead of the next election cycle.

Discussions at the meeting held at in ROCKVIEW Hotel, Abuja on Tuesday, reportedly centered on aligning with what participants described as the "progressive direction" of the state under Governor Bassey Otu and the reform-driven agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking at the meeting, Jarigbe siad he moved over to APC to assist President Bola Tinubu in repositioning the country for greater heights.

He said defecting to the ruling party will not stop him from empowering the constituents and embarking on people-oriented projects and to alleviate the sufferings of the zone, assuring the stakeholders of regular consultations and better days are ahead.

Speaking, the Cross River State PDP chairman, Venatius Ikem, Esq, commended Sen. Jarigbe for the bold step taken so far, promising to go back to the State Executive members for further consultations on the next line of action.

In a united front, the stakeholders pledged their support for Governor Otu's administration and President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. 

They further disclosed their intention to officially join the APC alongside Senator Jarigbe after wider consultations, describing the anticipated mass defection as a strategic realignment to give Cross River North a stronger voice in both state and national politics.

Present at the meeting include Hon. Godwin Offiono, representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Austin Edibe; former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Tom Ogar and Mike Aniah, Esq; Dr. DornKlamz Enamhe, Dr. Paul Ibiala, Hon Peter Ignodor and several other party stalwarts.

Political observers describe this development as a major blow to the PDP in Cross River, especially in the North where the party once held an unshaken grip.

 If the planned defection materialises, it could effectively collapse the PDP's political structure in the zone and strengthen the APC's dominance as Governor Otu continues to consolidate his influence across the state.

NICE Confers Fellowship Awards on Governor Otu’s Aides

Ukorebi Esien  | October 24, 2025

KANO – Two senior aides to the Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, have been honoured by the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE) for their outstanding contributions to infrastructure development and engineering excellence.

At the 23rd International Civil Engineering Conference held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, inside the Coronation Hall of the Kano Government House, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Ankpo, and the Special Adviser on Public Utilities, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe, received top honours from the professional body.

Engr. Dr. Egbe was conferred with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers in recognition of his remarkable achievements in both academic and professional circles. A senior lecturer in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Dr. Egbe has held various leadership roles within NICE, including Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Calabar Chapter, as well as National Organizing Secretary in 2018.

In his remarks, Dr. Egbe dedicated the honour to the visionary leadership of Governor Otu and the collective efforts of staff in the Department of Public Utilities. He also extended an invitation to the leadership of NICE to visit Cross River State for an on-the-spot assessment of the numerous infrastructure projects being executed by the Otu-led administration.

Similarly, Hon. Pius Ankpo was conferred with an Honorary Fellowship of NICE in recognition of his dynamic leadership and commitment to the governor's vision of delivering durable, high-quality infrastructure across the state. Though not an engineer by profession, Ankpo's passion for excellence and his results-oriented approach have earned him respect within the engineering community.

The recognitions were described as well-deserved tributes to both men for their professionalism, dedication, and service to humanity.

Observers say the awards reflect Governor Otu's resolve to build a competent and visionary team that shares his mission of transforming Cross River State through strategic infrastructure and sustainable development.

Dignitaries at the event included Hon. Okon Owuna, Member representing Akamkpa Constituency I; Hon. Linus Bassey, Member representing Akamkpa Constituency II; Hon. Engr. Thomas Aruku, Member representing Ogoja Constituency; and the Director of Civil Engineering, Engineering Services Department, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Cross River State.

Over 30 Stakeholders Trained in Community-Led TB Monitoring to Improve TB Case Detection and Service Quality in C'River

 Ukorebi Esien | October 24, 2025

CALABAR – In a renewed effort to deepen community participation and accountability in tuberculosis (TB) response, over 30 stakeholders drawn from civil society organizations, TB survivors, and community-based groups in Cross River State have undergone a two-day start-up training on Community-Led Monitoring (CLM) of TB services.

The training, organized by the Civil Society for the Eradication of Tuberculosis in Nigeria (TB Network) with support from the Global Fund through the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), is part of a national pilot project being implemented across 11 states in Nigeria, including Cross River, and will run until 2026.

According to Olayide Akanni, the National Coordinator of the Civil Society for the Control of Tuberculosis in Nigeria (TB Network), the CLM model is designed to place communities at the heart of service delivery improvement.

"The whole idea of Community-Led Monitoring is to go into the communities, identify the challenges limiting the uptake of TB services, and find ways to resolve them. We're not just going to be finding problems; we are working with communities to solve them," Akanni stated.
"This is about partnership, learning, and shared responsibility. The communities are not just beneficiaries; they are co-creators of solutions that make TB services more accessible and effective."

Akanni explained that in Cross River State, three Local Government Areas; Odukpani, Ikom, and Obudu, have been selected for the pilot phase, strategically drawn from the three senatorial districts of the state based on TB burden and accessibility indicators.

She noted that the project seeks to strengthen the feedback loop between service users and providers by empowering community monitors to collect real-time data on service delivery, stigma, and human rights concerns, which will be used to inform corrective actions.

Speaking with our correspondent, Elder Mrs Ajom Ikongha, the Cross River State Program Manager for Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, commended the initiative, describing it as "an extra cap" added to the state's TB response.

"This project will help us diagnose more cases and build confidence among those affected. When TB survivors speak up and say, 'I've been there and I'm fine,' it reduces stigma and encourages others to come out for testing and treatment," Ikongha said.
"Even though only three LGAs are part of the pilot, we're happy Cross River was selected. The lessons here will eventually benefit the entire state."

In her goodwill message, the Dr Vivien Otu, Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA) represented by a key staff of the Agency Grace Ikung, described the CLM initiative as "a bold step toward localizing solutions for better health outcomes."

"We are proud to see communities take ownership of TB response. When citizens monitor, report, and suggest solutions, government gets the clarity needed to act faster and smarter," She said.
"Our Agency is committed to working closely with the TB Network to ensure that these community-generated insights translate into real policy and service improvements."

 The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) representative, Barr. Ann Awah emphasized the intersection between health, rights, and gender, stressing that TB survivors, especially women, must be empowered to speak without fear of discrimination.

"TB is not a moral failure; it's a public health issue. Women living with TB face double stigma, so part of our advocacy is ensuring that no woman loses her dignity or access to care because of her diagnosis," she said.

Similarly, a representative of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr Remi  assured participants of the Commission's commitment to safeguarding the rights of TB patients and health workers.

"Our role is to ensure that no patient is denied treatment or discriminated against because of TB. We will continue to provide platforms for redress and ensure that every citizen enjoys their right to health without bias," the NHRC official stated.

Participants were trained on data collection tools, community feedback systems, and advocacy engagement techniques, understanding human rights, types of violations and the role of data in monitoring Abuses. They also developed a state-level monitoring plan to ensure that findings from the field are channelled into actionable steps for system improvement.

The training, described by participants as "a practical and inclusive approach to public health accountability," is expected to boost TB case notification, enhance service quality, and build trust between communities and health facilities in Cross River State.

FGGC Emerges Champion of Cross River’s Maiden Tech Spark AI Challenge for Secondary Schools

Ukorebi Esien |  October 21, 2025 

CALABAR - Federal Government Girls' College (FGGC), Calabar, has emerged overall winner of the Tech Spark Artificial Intelligence (AI) Challenge for Secondary Schools, recently held in Cross River State, outshining nineteen other schools in a two-day competition that celebrated creativity, innovation, and digital intelligence.

The contest, which was organised by the True Elites Group in collaboration with the Cross River State Ministry of Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, featured three major segments: debate, quiz, and AI product presentation, all aimed at promoting technological literacy and problem-solving skills among students.

At the end of the keenly contested challenge, FGGC Calabar clinched the first position, while West African People's Institute (WAPI), Diamond Hill Road, came second, and St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, finished third.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Commissioner for Education, Senator Stephen Odey, who represented the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, commended the organisers and participants for what he described as a "remarkable stride in reawakening educational innovation and excellence among young people."

"The future belongs to those who can think critically and innovate. What we have witnessed today gives us hope that Cross River students are ready to compete globally," Senator Odey said.
"As a government, we are committed to integrating technology-driven learning into our school system to prepare our students for the digital economy."

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, Barr. Ukam Ijom, applauded the initiative and reaffirmed the government's resolve to empower young people with 21st-century skills.

"This challenge is not just about competition; it is about preparing our young people for the realities of a new world order driven by technology," Ijom said.
"Our youths must not only consume technology but create it. What we have seen here today proves that Cross River students are capable of building solutions that can transform our economy."

He further stated that the outcome of the challenge has shattered long-held perceptions about public schools and the capacity of young people from the state.

"For too long, we have believed that our public schools cannot compete. This event has put that notion to rest. Our students have shown brilliance, confidence, and originality. They only need the right platforms and this government is determined to provide those platforms," the commissioner added.

Ijom also hinted that the Ministry will work with private partners like the True Elites Group to institutionalize similar programs that combine skills training, mentorship, and innovation labs across the state.

"We will continue to support creative ideas like this, because our young people deserve the opportunity to learn, experiment, and lead. The future of Cross River State rests in their hands," he affirmed.

In her remarks, the Founder and President of True Elites Group, Ms. Bassey Ekpeyong, explained that the competition was designed to stimulate early interest in technology and artificial intelligence among secondary school students.

"We realized that most tech programs focus on university students. The True Elites Group decided to start earlier — at the secondary school level — where curiosity and innovation can best be nurtured," Ms Ekpeyong said.

She added that the performance of the students was inspiring, describing their presentations and debates as evidence of strong intellectual and creative capacity among Cross River students.

"Their understanding of AI concepts, their curiosity, and their confidence show that with the right guidance, these students can build world-class innovations. "This experience has reaffirmed our belief that Cross River and Nigeria have the human capital needed to lead Africa's digital future." The Calabar born entreprenuer added.

Ms Ekpeyong disclosed that the Tech Spark Challenge will extend across the six South-South states, with Cross River serving as the pilot phase. Winners received ₦1 million, a brand-new laptop, and a one-year intensive training in AI and technology, while second price winners recieved N500,000, a brand-new tablet, and third place winners received a cash prizes of N200,000, a phone and  one-year intensive training in AI and technology also goes to both the second and third place winners

She also announced plans to establish Digital Literacy and AI Clubs across secondary schools in the state to sustain the momentum and provide continuous learning opportunities for students.

About 20 secondary schools within Calabar metropolis participated in the challenge, including Hope Waddell Training Institute, Government Technical College, Edgeley Memorial Girls' Secondary School, and Government Technical Secondary School, Mayne Avenue, among others.

Gov Otu Signs Two Bills to Strengthen Education, Land Administration Frameworks in C'River

CALABAR - Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has signed into law two pivotal bills passed by the State House of Assembly the Cross River State, namely, the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Obubra (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Cross River State Office of the Surveyor-General Bill, 2025, marking another milestone in his administration's commitment to institutional reforms and sustainable development.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held at the conference room, Government House, Calabar, Governor Otu lauded the State House of Assembly for its steadfast collaboration and proactive legislative engagement with the executive arm, describing the partnership as a model of effective governance.

"It is because of the House," the Governor said. "The collaboration and co-working have been wonderful. Your proactiveness is second to none. I believe our relationship will continue to grow stronger by the day."

He noted that the new laws would significantly strengthen education, land management, and governance structures in the state, aligning with his administration's People First agenda aimed at improving livelihoods through institutional efficiency and inclusiveness.

Governor Otu, while appending his signature to the bills, emphasized that education and institutional stability are central to his development blueprint for the state. He stressed that the new laws would help reposition key sectors for optimal performance and credibility.

"Without education, we could not be here," the Governor remarked. "What we are doing is to put our state on a proper pedestal for progress. We are very focused, and we'll continue to strengthen institutions that support growth and innovation."

In his executive summary of the two bills, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly explained that the Cross River State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Obubra (Amendment) Bill, 2025 seeks to amend the existing College of Agriculture Law to upgrade the institution from a monotechnic to a polytechnic.

The amendment, according to the Speaker, adds "Science and Technology" to the College's title and mandate, thereby broadening its academic scope and enabling it to access TETFund, a Federal Government intervention fund reserved for multi-sectoral higher institutions of learning.

"The amendment will allow the institution to benefit from infrastructural support through TETFund, while expanding its role in agricultural innovation, science, and technology-driven education," the Speaker stated.

On the Cross River State Office of the Surveyor-General Bill, 2025, the Speaker highlighted that the legislation provides a long-overdue legal framework for the Office, which had previously operated as an appendage of the Ministry of Lands without statutory backing, despite its autonomy.

"This Bill establishes a solid legal foundation for the Office of the Surveyor-General, clearly defining its functions, powers, and administrative structure," he said.
"It contains four parts and twenty-three sections that cover establishment, staffing, financial provisions, and general guidelines. When assented to, it will adequately empower the Office to function with autonomy, efficiency, and legal protection."

The Secretary to the Government of the State, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh; the Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani, Esq.; the Clerk of the House of Assembly, among other government officials attended the signing ceremony.

NOA Issues Clarification on Official Protocol for Reciting National Anthem and Pledge

Ukorebi Esien | October 21, 2025

CALABAR – The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has released official guidelines on the correct rendition and recitation of Nigeria's National Anthem and Pledge, in a bid to standardize practice at official and public functions across the country.

In a statement made available by the Agency, Nigerians are reminded that only the first stanza of the National Anthem is to be sung or recited at official events, while the third stanza serves as the National Prayer and should be rendered at the beginning of such occasions.

According to the directive, all three stanzas of the anthem are to be recited or sung only during major national events such as Independence Day celebrations, Presidential inaugurations, Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Democracy Day (June 12), and the inauguration of the National Assembly.

The Agency further stated that the National Pledge should be recited at the end of every official event, reaffirming national unity and commitment to patriotic values.

In addition to the protocol clarification, the NOA also addressed common errors often made in the recitation of the anthem. The agency highlighted corrections such as replacing "tribe" with "tribes," "tongue" with "tongues," "Nigerians all, and" with "Nigerians all, are," and "Nigeria shall be blessed" with the correct phrase, "Nigeria may be blessed."

These corrections, NOA explained, are part of efforts to preserve the authenticity of the anthem as originally composed and to foster national consciousness through accurate rendition.

The NOA reiterated its commitment to promoting national identity, civic education, and unity among Nigerians through continuous sensitization and public enlightenment campaigns.

20 Schools Compete in C’River’s First AI Challenge as True Elites Advocates Real Change

Ukorebi Esien | October 20, 2025

CALABAR— The City of Calabar came alive on Monday as 20 secondary schools across the state converged for the Empowering Cross River State Youths in Tech and Artificial Intelligence Challenge, the first of its kind in the state, organized by The True Elites Group in partnership with the Cross River State Government through the Ministry of Youth Development and Skill Acquisition.

The two-day competition, which forms part of the group's Tech Spark Challenge initiative, is aimed at promoting creativity, innovation, and digital literacy among young learners in secondary schools. The event features quizzes, project displays, and demonstrations in technology and artificial intelligence, designed to identify and support emerging talents in the state.

Speaking during the event, the Founder and President of The True Elites Group, Ms Bassey Ekpeyong, said the initiative was born out of a passion to drive what she described as "real change" in society by investing in the next generation of innovators.

"We are a group of people who came together to enforce the kind of change our society truly needs — not the audio change, but real transformation," she explained. "We realized that while most organizations target university students, the secondary school level is where real learning and cognitive development happen. That's why we decided to bring this challenge to our younger ones."

Ekpeyong, a Cross River indigene based in Port Harcourt, said the 2025 edition marks the official flag-off of the Tech Spark Challenge across the six South-South states, with Cross River chosen as the pilot state.

She disclosed that the winners of the challenge would undergo a one-year intensive training in technology and artificial intelligence, alongside other benefits, as part of efforts to sustain the impact of the initiative.

"After this competition, the top three winners will receive full-year sponsorship in tech and AI training. This will help them grow their capacity, sharpen their skills, and prepare them for the future of work," she added.

Also speaking, the Vice President of The True Elites Group, Dr. Adeyemi Tosin, commended the intelligence and creativity displayed by the participating students, describing them as "proof of the strong academic foundation in Cross River State."

"We were taken aback by the brilliance of these students," Dr. Mitosin said. "Their understanding of tech and AI concepts shows that the state's educational system is truly impactful. We, the organizers, have learned a lot from them."

He further noted that the competition would climax on Tuesday, October 21, with the presence of top government officials, including the Governor, as students showcase their projects before the panel of judges.

Winners of the challenge will receive ₦1 million, a brand-new laptop, and a one-year tech training sponsorship for the first position; ₦500,000, a tablet, and training support for the first runner-up; and ₦200,000, a smartphone, and training support for the third position.

Ekpeyong expressed gratitude to the Cross River State Government, particularly the Ministry of Youth Development and Skill Acquisition, for embracing the project and supporting its rapid implementation.

"We thank His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, for his support, and also the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Ijom Ukam, who has been amazing. The government gave us the platform to make this happen within three months," she noted.

The Empowering Cross River State Youths in Tech and Artificial Intelligence Challenge continues Tuesday with project presentations and the official unveiling of winners, marking a significant step in nurturing the next generation of digital innovators from Cross River State.

Destiny C'River Project Celebrates Governor Otu at 66, Hails Him as a Leader with a Prophetic Mandate

Ukorebi Esien I October 18, 2025

CALABAR – The Destiny Cross River Covenant Project, under the visionary leadership of Archbishop Josef Bassey, has joined millions of Cross Riverians and Nigerians in celebrating His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, on the occasion of his 66th birthday.

In a heartfelt message personally signed by Archbishop Josef Bassey, the governor was described as a man whose life and leadership are intricately woven into the prophetic destiny of Cross River State.

Archbishop Bassey, who also serves as the Visionary of the Destiny Cross River Project, stated that Governor Otu carries a divine mandate under God — one that aligns with the very essence of the Destiny Cross River Project, a movement dedicated to honouring and advancing the covenant of purpose upon the land.

According to him, Governor Otu's administration has demonstrated a rare blend of grace, courage, and vision in rebuilding and repositioning Cross River State on the path of greatness after years of desolation.

Quoting his message, the Archbishop prayed:

"I pray that grace will continually abound towards you, to fulfil your God-ordained destiny with courage, wisdom, and compassion. May your leadership continue to rebuild, restore, and reposition Cross River State in line with Heaven's blueprint."

He further remarked that the governor's commitment to selfless and people-centered governance reflects the divine purpose for which he was chosen to lead at such a time in the state's history.

The Destiny Cross River Project described Governor Otu's life as a testimony of leadership under divine conviction, adding that the state's destiny shines brighter because of his dedication to service and his unwavering faith in God's guidance.

The organisation extended its warmest wishes to the governor, praying that the years ahead be marked by greater wisdom, strength, and the continued fulfilment of God's purpose for both him and the state.

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C’River Planning Commission Hails Gov Otu’s Visionary Leadership at 66

Ukorebi Esien | October 18, 2025

CALABAR – The Cross River State Planning Commission has joined other well-meaning individuals and organizations to celebrate the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, as he marks his 66th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose People First philosophy continues to shape the state's development direction.

In a statement signed by its Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Bong Duke, the Commission lauded Governor Otu's commitment to inclusive growth, strategic planning, and sustainable development, noting that his administration has repositioned the state toward long-term prosperity through evidence-based policymaking and institutional strengthening.

Dr. Duke emphasized that under Governor Otu's leadership, Cross River State is witnessing renewed focus on economic diversification, infrastructure development, and people-centered governance.

"Your Excellency's passion for strategic planning and institutional reforms has set a solid foundation for lasting development across all sectors," the statement read in part.

The Commission further prayed for God's continued wisdom, strength, and good health for the Governor as he continues to lead the state with compassion and vision.

The statement concluded with warm felicitations to Governor Otu, wishing him more years of impactful service to Cross River State and humanity.

Governor Otu Approves Construction of 20km Bahumono Ring Road in Abi LGA

Ukorebi Esien | October 14, 2025

CALABAR - In a major infrastructural boost for Abi Local Government Area, the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the construction of over 20 kilometres of the Bahumono Ring Road.

The announcement was made on Friday, October 10, 2025, by the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Pius Ankpo Edet, during a stakeholders' engagement meeting held at the Abi Council Hall. The session, which drew a large turnout of political leaders, community heads, and residents, rekindled optimism across the Bahumono nation.

According to Hon. Ankpo, the road project is part of Governor Otu's deliberate effort to enhance rural connectivity, promote commerce, and ease movement across the nine autonomous Bahumono communities in Abi LGA.

"This administration is determined to touch every part of Cross River State with meaningful infrastructure. The Bahumono Ring Road is a critical link that will open up communities, stimulate local trade, and improve the lives of our people. His Excellency has directed that work begins immediately," Ankpo stated.

He further assured stakeholders that all necessary preparations for the project's commencement have been completed, with the first phase expected to begin shortly. The Commissioner also pledged swift government intervention on the dilapidated Ediba Road, which connects Abi and Yakurr LGAs.

"From my experience travelling on that road today, I can assure you that it demands urgent repairs. We will take immediate action without waiting for the federal government, notwithstanding their no-refund policy," Ankpo added.

The Commissioner reiterated that Governor Otu's "People First" administration remains committed to equitable development and responsive governance across the state.

in an exclusive with the Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, who represents Abi in the Cross River State House of Assembly, he said 

The highlight of the event was an inspection tour of the proposed Bahumono Ring Road site by the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Pius Edet, the Member representing Abi State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Davies Etta and the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi; and among other dignitaries.

The project, once completed, is expected to transform transportation, enhance agricultural distribution, and strengthen socioeconomic integration among Bahumono communities.