January Survival Support: Ukene Samuel Targets Aged, Women Ahead of Farming Season

Ukorebi Esien | December 30, 2025

USUMOTONG - A grassroots politician in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State, Mr. Ukene Samuel, has rolled out a January survival support initiative aimed at cushioning the effects of the post-Christmas economic hardship on women, the elderly and youths in Usumutong/Abeugo Council Ward.

The outreach, carried out during the Christmas season, covered Enoidom Polling Unit and Enoishori Polling Unit, where food items and other essential materials were distributed to vulnerable members of the community to help them cope with the difficult January period and prepare for the coming farming season.

Speaking during the exercise, Ukene Samuel described the gesture as a deliberate grassroots responsibility, stressing that meaningful political engagement must begin with the welfare of the people.

"January is always difficult. If the people are hungry, they cannot listen to instructions. A hungry man cannot reason well. So we must give them food to eat, listen to their plights and stand with them, so that when the time comes, they will stand firm," he said.

According to him, the outreach was structured to touch women, youths and the aged, while men were supported through the payment of school fees for their children, ensuring that education does not suffer due to economic challenges.

Ukene disclosed that 50 secondary school students benefited from school fee support, while 20 students had their WAEC examination fees paid quietly, without publicity, as part of his commitment to human capital development.

"Education is key. I did not make noise about it because I want the people to understand that someone is thinking about them and their future," he added.

He further revealed plans to extend the intervention beyond January, noting that February and March will focus on additional assistance, including farming inputs such as fertilizers and farm tools, to boost agricultural productivity in the communities.

The initiative received wide commendation from community members, who offered prayers for Okene Samuel, the state, and the administration of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, whom they praised for his leadership.

Mrs. Elizabeth Ekuma Eteng, a spokesperson at one of the polling units, lauded the intervention, describing it as timely and people-oriented, while women groups and youths expressed appreciation for being remembered during a challenging period.

In recognition of his sustained support for education, Mrs. Philomena Ovai Etta announced that Ukene Samuel has been honoured by the National Association of Usumutong Students (NAUS) and the National Association of Bahumono Students, acknowledging his continuous contributions to the growth of education and student development in the area.

Although not a political appointee, Ukene Samuel reaffirmed his belief in the current administration, calling on grassroots actors to align with the governor's vision and strengthen community-level engagement.

"You don't wait for the governor before you develop your grassroots. If we all do our part, Cross River State will move forward," he said.

The January survival support initiative has further positioned Ukene Samuel as a rising grassroots mobiliser with a strong focus on welfare, education and sustainable community development in Abi LGA.

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Youth Governance Crisis Won’t Distract Us, Says Cross River NYCN Chairman

Ukorebi Esien | December 24,2025

CALABAR - The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, has dismissed concerns that ongoing leadership disputes at the national level would disrupt youth activities and governance in the state, insisting that the council remains focused and fully functional.

Speaking during an engagement with youth leaders to disburse the Christmas package from the Cross River State Government recently in Calabar, Olayi said the Cross River State chapter of the NYCN would not be distracted by what he described as "election-related disagreements" at the national level, noting that such disputes are common in large democratic organisations.

According to him, the leadership of the NYCN in Cross River State was duly elected through a transparent, state-supervised process under the Ministry of Youth Development, stressing that the outcome of that process remains valid and binding.

"Our mandate in Cross River State is intact. We were elected in an election that was funded, supervised and recognised by the state government through the Ministry of Youth Development. Whatever disagreement exists at the national level will not stop us from carrying out our responsibilities to young people in this state," Olayi said.

He further disclosed that the Cross River State Ministry of Youth Development had, as recently as December 25, reaffirmed the legitimacy of the NYCN leadership in the state, describing the affirmation as institutional and not personal.

Olayi also addressed recent claims by a group that declared the NYCN non-existent in Cross River State, describing such assertions as a misunderstanding of the operational and legal framework of youth governance in Nigeria.

"The National Youth Council of Nigeria is established by law and remains the apex youth body. It is not replaced by any other group. What we provide is coordination, inclusion and a platform for all youth organisations to thrive," he said.

The NYCN chairman reiterated the council's open-door policy, noting that both affiliated and non-affiliated youth organisations were welcome to engage with the council, especially in programmes aimed at youth development, peacebuilding and economic empowerment.

He warned, however, that the council would not tolerate actions capable of disrupting peace in the state, pledging to report any individual or group found instigating unrest or spreading misinformation to the appropriate authorities.

"We will not fight anybody. We will not abuse anybody online. But we will remain focused. Cross River State is peaceful, and the youth council will do everything within its power to sustain that peace under the leadership of His Excellency, the Governor," Olayi stated.

He urged young people across the state to remain calm, united and committed to constructive engagement, assuring them that all disagreements would be resolved through due process while the council continues to deliver impactful programmes for youths in Cross River State.

No More Tax Evasion in Cross River as IRS Sets Deadline for Annual Returns

Ukorebi Esien | December 24, 2025

CALABAR - The Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on tax evasion, announcing a firm deadline for the filing of annual tax returns by individuals and corporate entities operating in the state.

Speaking in Calabar, the Executive Chairman of CRIRS stated that all taxable persons are required to file their annual returns on or before January 31, stressing that the directive is in line with existing tax laws and part of broader efforts to strengthen revenue generation for sustainable development in Cross River State.

According to the Service, tax compliance is not optional but a civic responsibility. It adds that failure to file annual returns within the stipulated period will attract the appropriate sanctions as provided by law. The IRS warned that it will no longer tolerate deliberate attempts by individuals or businesses to evade taxes or undermine the state's revenue system.

The chairman explained that internally generated revenue remains critical to funding key government projects, including infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, education, security, and other social services that directly impact the lives of Cross Riverians.

He noted that the current administration of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu is committed to fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability, and that effective tax administration is a cornerstone of these reforms.

CRIRS further disclosed that enforcement mechanisms have been strengthened, including improved data tracking, collaboration with relevant government agencies, and the deployment of technology to identify defaulters and block revenue leakages.

The Service urged residents, business owners, and corporate organizations to take advantage of its offices across the state to seek clarification and ensure timely compliance. Taxpayers were also encouraged to use approved payment channels to avoid falling victim to fraudsters.

Reassuring the public, CRIRS emphasized that revenues collected are being channelled towards development programmes aimed at improving the standard of living and accelerating the economic growth of Cross River State.

The agency called on all stakeholders to cooperate with the tax authority, noting that sustained compliance will help build a stronger, more prosperous Cross River for present and future generations.

From Decline to Recovery: Group Scores Otu High, Says Confidence Restored in C'River

Ukorebi Esien | December 23, 2025

CALABAR — A pro–Southern Senatorial District advocacy group, the Cross River State Southern Senatorial District Assembly (CRSSSDA), has said Governor Bassey Edet Otu has restored public and investor confidence in Cross River State, following what it described as years of institutional decline and weak governance.

The group made this known in a press statement issued in Calabar and signed by its Chief of Party, Mr John Offiong, after a review of the performance of the current administration.

According to the Assembly, Cross River State had, before the emergence of the Otu-led administration, experienced significant challenges ranging from declining infrastructure and fiscal instability to reduced public trust in government.

Offiong said members of the group had, in the years leading up to the 2023 general elections, mobilised within and outside Nigeria to advocate for good governance in the state.

"At that time, Cross River State was drifting in the wrong direction. Institutions were weak, infrastructure was deteriorating, and good governance was largely absent. We felt compelled to speak up and call for change," he stated.

He explained that the group's decision to support the return of power to the Southern Senatorial District during the last elections was guided by principles of equity, zoning, and the need for balanced development across the state.

The group said the emergence of Governor Otu had justified that decision, noting that his administration had recorded visible progress in key sectors of the state's economy.
Among the areas highlighted were improved security across the state, repayment of inherited debts, and renewed emphasis on financial prudence and accountability in public finance management.

The Assembly also cited ongoing infrastructural projects, including road construction and urban renewal efforts in Calabar, renewed momentum on the Bakassi Deep Seaport project, and the development of a modern state library aimed at promoting education, innovation, and youth development.

According to the statement, the recent acquisition of a new aircraft for Cally Air was another strategic move expected to enhance government efficiency, attract investors, and position Cross River State for increased regional and international engagement.

In the agricultural sector, the group noted increased youth participation, which it said was stimulating economic activity and improving livelihoods, particularly in rural communities. It also described the construction of a new Governor's Lodge in Ogoja as a deliberate effort to decentralise governance and restore the area's historic administrative relevance.

While acknowledging that some policies of the administration had attracted criticism, the group said firm leadership was sometimes necessary to deliver meaningful reforms and reverse years of decline.

The Assembly further observed that Cross River State was fast emerging as one of Nigeria's preferred destinations for tourism, holidays, and business, attributing this to improved security, better infrastructure, a vibrant social environment, and renewed investor confidence.

It added that the economic activities and festive atmosphere witnessed during the recent Christmas season reflected growing public confidence in the state's direction.

The group also commended members of the governor's team for their professionalism and competence, describing many of them as "round pegs in round holes." It singled out the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, for praise, describing him as a stabilising force who has helped keep the administration focused on its mandate.

The Cross River State Southern Senatorial District Assembly called on residents of the state to continue supporting the current administration, stressing that sustained public support would help consolidate ongoing reforms and deepen democratic governance.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for inclusive development, equity, and policies aimed at promoting sustainable growth across all parts of Cross River State.

C'River State to Hold Peace and Security Walk December 31

Ukorebi Esien | December 29, 2025

CALABAR - The Cross River State Government, through the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, has announced a statewide Peace and Security Walk aimed at promoting unity, peaceful coexistence, and sustained security across the state.
The event, tagged "Cross River State Peace Walk… For Lasting Peace and Security," is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. prompt at the Millennium Park, Calabar.

According to a statement signed by Chief Michael Orok Nsan, Director of Homeland Safety and Security Agency South and Convener of the Event, the walk is designed to celebrate the relative peace currently enjoyed in Cross River State while reinforcing collective commitment by government, security agencies, communities, and civil society to safeguard lives and property.

The Statement added that the Walk will be hosted by the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who is expected to lead participants in the symbolic walk for peace and unity, while members of the National Assembly, the Cross River State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, Service Chiefs and security heads, chairmen of Local Government Areas, traditional rulers, youth and religious organisations, civil society organisations, and non-governmental organisations are expected at the event.

Speaking on the significance of the walk, Chief Nsan noted that peace and security remain a shared responsibility, stressing that sustained development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity, vigilance, and cooperation among citizens. He therefore encouraged residents of the state to turn out in large numbers to participate in the walk, describing it as a collective call to action for a safer, more peaceful, and united Cross River State.
The organisers urged all participants to arrive early and comply with guidelines to ensure a smooth and successful outing, as the state takes another step in reinforcing its commitment to lasting peace and security.

The initiative is convened by the Homeland Safety and Security Agency (South), in collaboration with the Office of the State Security Adviser and other strategic partners.

Beyond Handouts: Akpama Champions Empowerment, Leadership Development in Yakurr II

Ukorebi Esien | December 25, 2025

NKO – The member representing Yakurr II State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Mercy Akpama, has held a Christmas town hall meeting and leadership development programme for students, as thousands of constituents accessed free medical care.

The event, which took place at Precious Stone Event Centre, Nko, attracted APC members, community leaders, youths and senior secondary school students from across the constituency.

Speaking at the event, the lawmaker Rev Mrs Mercy Akpama said her style of representation was anchored on empowerment rather than handouts, stressing that sustainable development could only be achieved by equipping people with skills and opportunities to stand on their own.

She reaffirmed her commitment to grassroots empowerment and inclusive governance.

"Coming into politics, I realised that many politicians give money and promises, but the people remain the same year in, year out. I chose a different path," she said. "Instead of giving fish every day, it is better to give nets. If you empower one person, it becomes a chain, and others will also be empowered."

She described herself as a grassroots politician who believes in constant engagement with constituents, noting that governance should not be done from a distance.

"My people are my people. We eat together, we play together and we reason together. That, to me, is real politics," Akpama added.

The lawmaker also explained her special focus on students and young people, saying leadership development must begin early if society is to witness continuity and progress.

"As a pastor, I believe strongly that when the foundation is destroyed, nothing can stand. These children are the next generation. You cannot be on stage forever. Any success without a successor is a failure," she said.

Akpama also distributed cash, rice and other Christmas items to participants, noting that the season was one of love and giving.

"Christmas is a time of love and peace. Let us be happy, unite and believe that tomorrow will be better than today," she urged.

Chairman of the event, Brigadier General Obol Enang Ukagu (retd.), commended Mrs Akpama's approach to representation, describing her empowerment model as impactful and forward-looking.

"Her brand of empowerment is novel. It is not about sharing food or drinks, but lifting people to new levels where they can also impact others," Enang said. "Since 1999, she is only the second lawmaker from Yakurr II to gather constituents during this festive period to account for her stewardship and listen to their challenges."

In his remarks, the keynote speaker, Prof. Godwin Igile, who aligned his speech with the theme, urged students and youths generally to uphold the true values of respect, godliness, obedience, and hard work, and to desist from the quick wealth syndrome that is inimical to their well-being and peaceful coexistence. 

The member representing Yakurr 1 constituency, Hon. Cyril Omini, in his remarks, lauded Rev. Mercy for her approach and style of giving back to society, describing it as truly democratic, one that touches the needy directly. 

A beneficiary of the leadership training, Senior Prefect Humble Akpama of Ibaramba Secondary School, Agoi Ibami, expressed gratitude to the lawmaker, Rev. Mrs Akpama, saying the programme had inspired him and other students to embrace responsibility and service.

"I have learnt that leadership is about service and preparing others to be better. We are grateful for this opportunity and the encouragement given to us," he said.

The town hall marked the second phase of her constituency engagement and formed part of the activities to review her stewardship while fostering peace and unity in Yakurr II.

NYCN Invites Affiliated Youth Groups for Christmas Celebration at Youth House

Ukorebi Esein |  December 25, 2025

CALABAR – The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, has extended an invitation to all Affiliated youth groups to a Christmas celebration. TDN reports. 

The event scheduled for today, 25th December 2025, at the Sen. Bassey Edet Otu's Youth and Entrepreneurial House by 1:00 p.m, will feature the distribution of Christmas packages received from the Cross River State Government to all youth groups affiliated with the NYCN. This initiative underscores the Council's commitment to fostering unity, inclusiveness, and collaboration  amongst organizations across the state.

Speaking ahead of the celebration, the State Chairman of the NYCN, His Youthfulness, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, urged all affiliated youth groups to participate actively, emphasizing that the event is not only a festive celebration but also an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and solidarity among the state's youth population.

The NYCN, as the umbrella body for youth affairs in Cross River State, reiterated its role in coordinating youth activities and promoting peace, development, and social cohesion among young people in the state.

All youth groups affiliated with the NYCN are encouraged to be present promptly to partake in the festivities and receive their government-sponsored packages.

C'River Government Hosts NYCN, Emphasises Peaceful Celebration

Ukorebi Esien | December 24, 2025

CALABAR – The Cross River State Government has hosted leaders of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River State Council, and other youth stakeholders, urging youths across the state to celebrate the Christmas and festive season in peace, unity, and love.

The youth delegation, led by the State Chairman of the NYCN, His Youthfulness, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, paid a Christmas courtesy visit to Government House, Calabar, where they were received by Hon. Dr Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief of Staff to the Governor, on behalf of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

The delegation comprised executive members o the NYCN, members of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Student Union Presidents, representatives of student governments, local government coordinators and state officers of the NYCN, as well as leaders of voluntary youth organisations.

Addressing the youths, the Chief of Staff commended their commitment to responsible leadership and constructive engagement, describing Christmas as a season of "sweetness" that should be marked by peace, tolerance, and shared responsibility.

Ironbar charged the youths to remain focused, law-abiding, and mindful of their actions, noting that every positive conduct by young people contributes to projecting the good image of the state government. He further stressed the importance of partnership between government and youth organisations in sustaining peace and development, especially during the festive period.

The Chief of Staff also used the occasion to commend the leadership of the NYCN for its mature and effective coordination of youth activities across the state, noting that the Olayi-led administration has brought stability, structure, and increased visibility to youth engagements, while strengthening the Council's role as the central coordinating body for youth activities in Cross River State.

As part of the engagement, a Christmas package from the state government was presented to the State Chairman of the NYCN for distribution in celebration of Nigerian youths and students across Cross River State.

Speaking on behalf of the youth delegation, the NYCN Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for his continuous investment in youth development, particularly through capacity-building trainings and infrastructural development across the state.

He reaffirmed the position of the NYCN as the coordinating body of youth activities in Cross River State and pledged the commitment of youths and students to peace, unity, and inclusive engagement. He also assured the government that youths would celebrate the season responsibly and share with the less privileged.

The youth leader further called on young people to protect the state's cultural heritage, particularly the Carnival Calabar, and ensure that festivities are celebrated peacefully without actions capable of disrupting public order.

The visit ended with a vote of thanks and renewed assurances of youth support for the policies and programmes of the Cross River State Government.

In attendance was the Deputy Chief of staff to the governor, Hon. Chief Boniface Okache and other government appointees. 

NYC Declares NYCN Activities Illegal, Warns Youths Against Unauthorized Summit

Ukorebi Esien |  December 24, 2025

CALABAR – The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) has declared all activities being carried out under the banner of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) illegal, warning youths in Cross River State to steer clear of any unauthorized gatherings, including the proposed summit scheduled to hold in Bekwara Local Government Area.

The declaration was made on Today during a press conference convened by the leadership of the Nigerian Youth Congress, Cross River State Chapter, to clarify the current state of youth governance, address growing public confusion, and reaffirm the need for legality and institutional order in youth leadership.

According to the state Chairman of NYC, Comrade Francis Finian Offionor, the NYCN currently lacks both legal and administrative recognition, having been suspended by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and stripped of its certificate of registration by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

"Let the record reflect the facts," the Congress stated. "The Corporate Affairs Commission withdrew the registration of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development subsequently suspended it from operating. Consequently, the NYCN is presently proscribed and lacks legal standing at both state and national levels."

The He explained that proscription, by law, renders the organization's existence and activities unlawful, stressing that any summit, congress, or public engagement organized in the name of the NYCN is unauthorized.

On this basis, the NYC specifically cautioned Cross River youths against participating in the proposed NYCN summit in Bekwara, describing it as illegal and capable of generating confusion and public disorder.

"This clarification is necessary to protect young people and maintain public order," the Congress said. "Youth leadership is too important to be driven by speculation, misinformation, or parallel authority."

While maintaining a firm stance on legality, the Nigerian Offionor emphasized that its approach to youth governance is rooted in dialogue, inclusion, and institutional reforms, rather than confrontation.

The body reiterated that it is not positioning itself for rivalry or conflict but is focused on building credible structures that support youth development, civic responsibility, peace, and democratic values.

As part of its roadmap for Cross River State, the NYC unveiled plans for a functional and inclusive youth governance structure, including a State Executive Council, local government youth councils across all LGAs, and specialized committees focused on empowerment, education, innovation, peacebuilding, media, and policy advocacy.

The Congress also affirmed its alignment with the policies of the Cross River State Government, national youth development frameworks, and democratic governance principles, describing itself as a partner in development rather than a pressure group for disruption.

"Youths should expect order, not confusion; structure, not rivalry; programs, not propaganda," Offionor stated, adding that its administration is committed to building strong institutions rather than personalities.

The press conference concluded with a call for responsible civic engagement and respect for the rule of law, as the Nigerian Youth Congress pledged continued openness, constructive engagement, and accountability in advancing the interests of Cross River State youths.

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

Nerz Garden Estate Berths in Calabar, Boosts Affordable Housing Drive

As a deliberate effort aimed at addressing the housing crisis in the shelter ecosystem, Nerz & Zadok Property Limited, a Lagos based real estate firm with over 15 years of proven industry experience, has unveiled its flagship housing project in Calabar, the Nerz Garden Estate.

The estate, located at Idundu in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, is designed to help bridge the affordable housing gap by providing quality homes with flexible ownership options for individuals and families.

Speaking at the launch, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nerz Group, Mr Efiong Eyo, said the project reflects the company's commitment to delivering accessible, sustainable and well planned housing solutions. He noted that the development comes at a critical time when rising housing costs have made home ownership increasingly difficult.

According to him, Nerz Garden Estate offers flexible payment plans structured to make ownership attainable, while also positioning Cross River State as a serene, secure and investment friendly destination for long term real estate development.

Mr Eyo added that the Nerz brand is strengthened by its diversified portfolio of over nine subsidiaries, including Nerz Paints, Nerz Diagnostics and Nerz Tech, which ensure quality control, efficiency and reliability across its projects.

He commended the Akpabuyo Local Government administration for the logistical support that facilitated the successful takeoff of the project, reaffirming the company's resolve to exceed expectations through timely delivery and lasting impact.

Commissioning the project, the Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Hon Effiom Bassey, praised the developers for choosing the area and pledged the full support of his administration toward achieving the goal of addressing the growing demand for affordable housing in the state, particularly in Calabar.

He described the estate as more than a housing project, noting that it represents a commitment to sustainable growth, youth empowerment and job creation within the local government area.

The event, which later featured an end of year celebration, attracted goodwill messages from key stakeholders, including Rt Hon Hilary Bisong, Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon Stanley Nsemo, Chairman of the House Committee on Lands, Dr Terence Eyo and Mr Liyel Imoukhuede, among others.

The Nerz Garden Estate comprises a mix of duplexes, one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom totalling over 100 housing units, all en suite and designed to meet modern living standards, underscoring the developer's commitment to affordability, inclusivity and planned residential living.