Alleged Plot to Oust Ikom Council Boss: CRHA Speaker Fingered

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM - Tension is rising in Ikom Local Government Area following allegations that the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRHA), Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, is behind an alleged plot to remove the Executive Chairman of Ikom LGA, Hon. Pst. [Mrs] Mercy Nsor, through what critics describe as a "backdoor ouster."

Multiple political sources and stakeholders in the area claim that the alleged move is aimed at replacing the elected chairman with the Vice Chairman, Hon. Maurice Ekpando, who is said to be politically aligned with the Speaker. The development has triggered widespread concern, with many describing it as an attempt to seize control of the political structure of Ikom LGA outside established democratic and legal processes.

According to insiders familiar with the situation, pressure is allegedly being mounted on relevant authorities using vague and unverified allegations against the chairman. Critics argue that no formal breach of the Local Government Law or the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been established to warrant such a move.

The controversy has drawn strong reactions from major political stakeholders in Ikom, including former Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, legal practitioners, former lawmakers, and community leaders, who are said to be firmly backing Hon. Mercy Nsor. They credit her administration with maintaining peace, stability, and steady development since assuming office.

Adding weight to the resistance, the legislative arm of the Ikom Local Government Council, led by Hon. Moyo Efale, has publicly aligned with the chairman. The eleven elected councillors reportedly insist that Hon. Nsor has not violated any provision of the Local Government Laws or the Nigerian Constitution, effectively dismissing claims used to justify her alleged removal.

"This is not about governance; it is about control," a stakeholder who spoke on condition of anonymity said. "You cannot remove an elected chairman through political manipulation. That is an assault on democracy."

The allegations have also fueled broader political debates, with some observers linking the reported move to long-term political calculations and power realignment within the state. Others warn that such actions, if pursued, could destabilize not just Ikom LGA but local government administration across Cross River State.

Responding to the allegations, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, was quoted as offering a detailed account of events surrounding a recent stakeholders' engagement in Ikom. According to him, "a whole lot isn't going on right in Ikom," noting that concerns were raised by community leaders over the council's administration. He explained that a stakeholders' meeting was convened to address unresolved issues from an earlier engagement held two weeks prior, where it was resolved that the chairman should account for certain matters. The Speaker said the follow-up meeting, which reportedly drew 47 Ikom leaders from across the country, including Abuja and Enugu, went ahead despite the absence of the council chairman. "The chairman did not attend, did not send a representative, not even the vice chairman or secretary, and no excuse was communicated," he said, adding that she was reportedly in Ikom at the time. He further claimed that allegations of maladministration were raised at the meeting, including concerns over revenue generation and the handling of funds sent to the council by the state government. "This is not about removing anyone by force," the Speaker was quoted as saying. "I came as a leader of Ikom to listen to what the people had to say and to allow the chairman an opportunity to explain these allegations. I have documents and evidence that these issues were discussed by the leadership." He stressed that the gathering was intended to ensure accountability and that "Ikom cannot be run like a sole administration without explanation to its people."  He emphasized that the concern of stakeholders was that Ikom Local Government "cannot continue to be run like a sole administration without accountability," adding that the leadership felt compelled to act in the interest of transparency and good governance.

As the situation unfolds, residents of Ikom LGA remain on edge, calling for transparency, adherence to due process, and respect for the people's mandate. Political analysts warn that any attempt to forcefully remove an elected local government chairman without due process could set a dangerous precedent in the state.

Breaking: NYCN Chairman, Emmanuel Olayi, Others Involved in Auto Crash

Ukorebi Esien | January 9, 2026

 
CALABAR - The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, on yesterday narrowly escaped death alongside four others after their vehicle was involved in a road traffic accident while en route to a central youth engagement in the state.

The accident occurred between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m along the Nko/inyima axis of the Ikom-Calabar expressway enroute Obubra LGA, as Olayi and members of his team were travelling ahead of the main convoy to the next engagement point. The trip was part of the Central Youth Engagement Tour organised by the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa.

Speaking with journalists from his hospital bed, Olayi explained that the red Toyota Corolla conveying him, three aides, and a driver suddenly skidded off the major expressway despite the driver's efforts to regain control. The vehicle veered into a nearby bush, tumbled repeatedly, and eventually crashed into a tree.

According to him, the impact left the occupants with varying degrees of injuries. Olayi said they sustained injuries in the head, neck, and chest, while one of his aides was temporarily unable to use his legs immediately after the accident. He, however, confirmed that no life was lost in the incident.

The NYCN chairman disclosed that commercial motorcycle riders in the area were the first to respond to the scene, assisting in opening the damaged vehicle and rescuing the occupants. They were initially taken to the General Hospital, Ugep, where they received first aid before being transferred by ambulance to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for further medical attention.

Olayi clarified that his vehicle was the only one involved in the crash, noting that it was travelling ahead of the main convoy at the time of the accident. Other vehicles in the convoy later stopped after the victims had been moved to safety.

As of the time of filing this report, Olayi and the other occupants of the vehicle were responding to treatment at UCTH, while the damaged vehicle remained at the crash site pending recovery. Further details on the cause of the accident were still emerging.
The incident has drawn concern from youth leaders and stakeholders across the state, with many expressing gratitude that no life was lost and wishing the victims a speedy recovery.

APC Has a Better Deal Ahead of 2027, Says Dansuki; Warns Power Brokers: “We No Go Work, Others Come Chop”

Ukorebi Esien | January 8, 2026

CALABAR - Former federal lawmaker and prominent political figure in Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuqo, popularly known as Dansuki, has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the best political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections, while issuing a strong warning to party power brokers against sidelining loyal supporters after electoral victories.

Dansuki made the remarks over the weekend during a private gathering at his residence in Calabar, attended by friends, political associates, and supporters from across party lines, including the APC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party.

Reaffirming his support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Dansuki said his decision to back the governor was based on conviction, shared struggle and political integrity, not opportunism or personal gain. He dismissed speculations on social media suggesting a strained relationship between him and the governor.

"I believe in the government I worked for. I believe in Prince Bassey Otu's government because it was the right thing to do," Dansuki said. "I will not allow that man to go and eat alone."

In a statement that resonated strongly with attendees, the former House of Representatives member criticised a political culture where individuals who laboured for electoral success are marginalised once victory is achieved.

"We no go work, others come chop," he said, stressing that political loyalty and early commitment must be recognised and protected.

According to Dansuki, rewarding opportunism at the expense of sacrifice weakens party structures and fuels internal discontent, particularly at the grassroots level. He cautioned that such practices, if left unchecked, could undermine party cohesion ahead of future elections.

Speaking on the direction of the APC in Cross River State, Dansuki maintained that the ruling party offers a better deal than its rivals, citing ongoing development efforts and governance style under Governor Otu.

"Politics is dynamic, but I know we have a better deal in APC today, seeing what we are seeing on the ground from what the governor is doing," he said.

He urged party members to stop attacking one another in the pursuit of political ambition, warning that pulling others down is not a sustainable path to growth.

"People must not run people down for them to grow. You are not going anywhere; it only looks like you are going somewhere," he cautioned.
Dansuki also appealed to his supporters to preserve long-standing friendships and family ties beyond politics, advising them not to fight personal political battles on his behalf.
Several speakers at the event, including party leaders and longtime associates, praised Dansuki for maintaining close relationships with his supporters despite not holding elective office. They described the gathering as a rare display of political maturity and cross-party camaraderie.

Some supporters openly projected Dansuki's future political relevance ahead of 2027, though he made no formal declaration of ambition. He, however, expressed gratitude for the continued support and stressed the importance of unity, loyalty and shared values.

"What matters is that we all believe in the same thing , a better tomorrow, and we walk towards it together," he said.

As political activities gradually build toward the 2027 general elections, Dansuki's remarks are seen as both a reaffirmation of loyalty to the APC and a subtle caution to party leaders that sacrifice, commitment and unity must remain central to the party's internal politics.

C’River 2027: “We Are Not Tools to Be Used and Dumped” — NYCN Leadership Declares, Calls for Value-Driven Participation

Ukorebi Esien | January 8, 2026

CALABAR - The leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Cross River State has cautioned young people against political manipulation, electoral thuggery and involvement in violence as the state gradually inches toward the 2027 general elections, insisting that youths must see themselves as partners in development rather than tools for political exploitation.

The warning follows a motivational message issued by the Cross River State Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, in which he urged youths to reject the culture of being "used and dumped" by political actors and instead embrace responsible, value-driven participation in governance and community development.

"As we stand on the brink of the future, remember that we have the power to shape the world," Olayi said. "We are not tools to be used and dumped. We are a people full of energy, ideas and capacity, useful for productivity and community development."

He called on young leaders to embrace their uniqueness, pursue their passions, continually learn and adapt, and believe in themselves, stressing that no youth should sacrifice their future for illegitimate political gains.

Olayi added that youths have enormous value to bring to the table and must resist any attempt to reduce them to instruments of violence, intimidation or disorder during political contests.

Backing this position, a former Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria in Cross River State, Comrade Bernard Okori Oko, also advised youths to exercise wisdom and restraint as political activities begin to intensify.

Speaking during an interview with TDN, Oko noted that youths often find themselves at the centre of political crises and insecurity, acting both as perpetrators and eventual victims.

"In every war or conflict we have witnessed, it always ends on the table of negotiation," he said. "Why not negotiate before the war? The brunt of political violence falls on the shoulders of the youth. They are the most active, they are used, and they are the ones who die."

He urged young people to align only with leaders and candidates who would be accountable to them after elections, emphasizing that political engagement must translate into tangible development outcomes for communities.

According to him, wisdom demands that youths make rational decisions that will not haunt them in the future, choosing peace, dialogue and constructive engagement over violence and destruction.

The NYCN leadership reiterated its commitment to mentoring young people, promoting peace, and mobilising youths as a positive force for democratic governance and sustainable development in Cross River State.

As the countdown to 2027 continues, the council urged youths to resist manipulation, reject violence, and channel their energy into constructive participation that adds value to the electoral process and the overall development of the state.

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

Cult Groups Sign Peace Accord, Take Oath Against Violence in Calabar

Ukorebi Esien | Janueary 3, 2026

CALABAR  — In a landmark peace initiative aimed at curbing violent crime, several cult and gang groups in Calabar formally signed a peace pact and took a public oath renouncing violence, kidnapping, gangsterism, and other criminal conduct earlier this week. The event, organized by the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, brought together community leaders, security officials, and representatives of groups historically linked to violent activities in the Cross River State capital.


The gathering began with a peace walk through key parts of Calabar, signalling a collective commitment to ending criminality and restoring safety in neighbourhoods long affected by cult clashes and other insecurity. After the procession, the group leaders signed the peace pact and took a solemn oath affirming their dedication to peace and lawful conduct.

Addressing the audience, Michael Orok Nsan, Director-South of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, said the initiative was part of broader efforts to consolidate peace and improve the security landscape across the state.

"We are delighted and grateful to God Almighty… to thank everybody for honouring the invitation for this peace walk," Nsan said, expressing optimism that the accord would foster stability and boost investor confidence in Cross River.

Nsan explained that the pact involved groups previously associated with internal and external conflicts, including violent clashes, kidnapping and gangsterism, and was designed to formally commit them to peaceful conduct.

"At this point, I will be administering the oath to all the families represented by their heads," he said before inviting them forward for the oath-taking ceremony.

During the oath segment, representatives pledged to uphold principles of integrity, transparency, accountability, and unity; respect citizens' rights; and abstain from violence, illegal activities and discrimination. The agreement also includes accountability provisions, warning that failure to honour the terms could result in withdrawal of government recognition and other consequences.

Describing the pact as akin to an amnesty framework, Nsan noted that the signatories had renounced their involvement in cult activism and agreed not to engage in internal or external conflicts, kidnappings, or violent disputes over revenue sources.

Representing Governor Bassey Otu, the Special Adviser on Forensic and Intelligence, Chief Koko Henshaw, reiterated that the peace walk and pact were part of ongoing efforts, not one-off events, to sustain peace in the state.

"We are not here for luxury. This peace walk is going to be a continuous process, and all hands must be on deck… Peace is very cheap. We are all ambassadors of peace," Henshaw said, adding that cult-related activities and kidnappings had seen a decline under the current administration's security coordination efforts.

When questioned about whether engaging previously violent groups might be seen as incentivising criminality, Nsan defended the approach, stating that past reliance on force alone had not yielded the desired results and that the new strategy sought inclusive engagement alongside law enforcement cooperation.

He disclosed that some individuals involved are also receiving training in agriculture and other skills as part of reintegration efforts, underlining the state's commitment to addressing the root causes of violence and providing alternatives to crime.

Also speaking at the event, Felix William Arikpo, Director-Central of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, emphasised that addressing cultism and communal violence is a long-term, gradual process that requires sustained collaboration between security agencies, community stakeholders, and the signatory groups.

The organizers said the peace walk and signing marked the closing of annual activities and would be followed by further engagements to maintain harmony throughout Cross River State.

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C’River IRS Goes Cashless, Begins Implementation of New Tax Reforms

Ukorebi Esien | January 5, 2026

CALABAR – The Cross River Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has officially commenced the implementation of the new Tax Reform Acts, marking a major shift towards digital, cashless tax administration in the state. The reforms took effect on January 1, 2026, and are aimed at enhancing service delivery, harmonising taxes and levies, and eliminating multiple taxation.

Dr Edwin Okon, Executive Chairman of CRIRS, emphasised that the reforms mark the end of cash collections for tax payments. "Effective immediately, taxpayers are encouraged to make payments only through digital platforms or bank deposits into government-designated revenue accounts. Cash payments or transfers to personal or corporate accounts of revenue agents or tax officials are strictly prohibited," he stated in a press release on Tuesday.

The reforms also address the engagement of tax consultants and professionals in line with the Nigerian Tax Administration Act, 2025. CRIRS has directed all revenue consultants to pause the issuance of new tax assessments until further notice to ensure compliance with the law and to reduce potential revenue leakages in the state.

Dr Okon reassured taxpayers that the reforms are not intended as a punitive measure. "We encourage taxpayers to approach these changes with an unbiased mind for easier understanding and assimilation," he said.

To facilitate a smooth transition, CRIRS has established dedicated support channels and is organizing workshops, webinars, and seminars to educate the public on the new laws. Taxpayers seeking assistance can visit the official website at www.crirs.ng
 or contact the customer service lines at 08066276829 and 08129336969.

The move aligns with the state government's broader strategy to modernize revenue collection, promote accountability, and strengthen record-keeping, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous Cross River State.

Ex-NYCN Chairmen Applaud Olayi for Stability, Youth-Focused Leadership

Ukorebi Esien | Jan 6, 2026

CALABAR – Former Chairmen of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, have commended the State Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, for his resilience, inclusive leadership style, and commitment to youth development despite funding and institutional challenges.

The commendation was given during a stakeholders' dinner organised by the NYCN at Hogis Luxury Suites, Calabar, which brought together past chairmen of the council, youth leaders, and key stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Pioneer Chairman of NYCN in Cross River State, Mr Christopher Lekam, described Olayi's leadership as focused, sacrificial, and results-driven, noting that the current leadership has recorded visible achievements in the face of limited financial support.

According to him, "What we have seen from this administration is resilience. Despite poor funding, the Chairman and his team have continued to engage youths, attract partnerships, and keep the council united. That speaks volumes about leadership."

 

Lekam praised the Chairman for managing internal and national-level challenges without allowing them to disrupt peace and cohesion within the state chapter. He noted that Cross River State has remained stable despite leadership disputes at the national level of the Youth Council.

The former chairman also highlighted the importance of unity, stressing that while youth leaders may contest or occupy positions at the national level, such ambitions should not be allowed to create division at home.

"We can go out and compete anywhere, but when we return to Cross River State, we must remain one united Youth Council," he said.

Other former chairmen at the dinner pledged continued support for the current leadership, assuring Olayi of mentorship, guidance, and collective backing to strengthen the council's operations.

Also, Comrade Benard Okori, who succeeded Lekam as youth Chairman, expressed satisfaction at the level of growth and activities in the Council.  

"To say the State Chairman Olayi has done well, is an understatement. He has done very well. On behalf of leadership, I appreciate you and your team for the good works you're doing in the Cross River state."  He stated.

Another former Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comrade Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo, who took over from Bernard Okori also spoke strongly in support of peace, unity, and continuity within the council, warning against a return to crisis and internal confusion.

According to Ndiyo, "I don't want us to continue on the path of crisis and confusion. Let us maintain the peace, growth, and development this administration is giving through focused leadership." He pledged his personal loyalty and support to the current Chairman, stressing that his commitment is to the institution, not individuals. "I have told Olayi that I am always available to give my little advice and support. Even when you are sinking, if I cannot save you, I will sink with you, not because you are Emmanuel Olayi, but because you hold a mandate that is sacred to most of us,"he said. 

Describing the Youth Council as a shared legacy, Ndiyo added that leaders must protect, not destroy, the institution that shaped them, noting that "Youth Council is our business, and we are ready to stake our lives for it. When we took the oath of office, it was to defend the council. We cannot destroy what has benefitted us before."

Comrade Daniel Obo who was visiblly absent during the dinner joined the meeting during the photograph session.

Earlier in his address, Comrade Olayi briefed the gathering on the council's achievements between 2023 and 2025, including youth empowerment programmes, the Youth Convergence initiative, transport schemes, scholarships, and partnerships with government and development organisations.
He also used the occasion to appeal for stronger support from leaders and stakeholders, especially in the area of funding, noting that the council has not received statutory subvention for the past year.

The dinner served as a platform for reflection, appreciation, and renewed commitment to strengthening youth governance and development in Cross River State.

"Don’t Fight My Battles” – Dansuki Warns Supporters Against Political Hostility

Ukorebi  Esien | Jan. 4, 2026 

CALABAR — Former federal lawmaker and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuquo (popularly known as Dansuki), has cautioned his supporters against engaging in political hostility on his behalf, urging them to prioritise friendship, family ties and community cohesion over partisan battles.

Dansuki gave the warning on while hosting friends, associates and political allies from across party lines at his residence during a get-together in Calabar.

Addressing the gathering, the former member of Nigeria's Green Chambers at the National Assembly who Represented Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency stressed that political differences must not be allowed to destroy long-standing personal relationships built over decades.

"Don't take my fight though. Dey your dey, make I dey my dey. Don't fight for me," he told the audience. "Your brother is your brother. Your sister is your sister. What has joined us together is the friendship we have built over the years."

He noted that many friendships present at the gathering predated politics, some spanning more than 30 to 40 years, and described such bonds as stronger and more enduring than political affiliations.

Dansuki expressed concern that political loyalty had strained relationships among some of his supporters, warning against turning political disagreements into personal enmity.

"I notice that a lot of you are not talking to yourselves because you are supporting different causes. Don't carry my battle. Friendship is bigger than politics," he said.

"You are free to support whoever you want to support outside here, but don't let your affiliations destroy the bond we share here." He added. 

The grassroot politician also used the occasion to reaffirm his support for the administration of Governor Bassey Otu, dismissing speculations on social media about a rift between them.

"I believe in Prince Otu's government because it was the right thing to do," Dansuki stated. "People should not mix business with politics. Relationship is relationship."

While acknowledging the dynamic nature of politics, he urged party members to stop undermining one another, warning that growth cannot be achieved by running others down.

"People must not pull others down to grow. You only think you are going somewhere, but without a good foundation, you will not go far," he said.

Dansuki also encouraged cross-party tolerance, noting that the gathering included supporters from APC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, united by friendship rather than political alignment.

He thanked attendees for their continued support and pledged to maintain open relationships with friends and associates, regardless of political differences.

The event featured goodwill messages from party leaders and longtime associates, who praised Dansuki for sustaining relationships even while out of public office and pledged continued support for his political and personal endeavours.

The gathering ended with the distribution of food items and cash to invited guests, which Dansuki described as a token of friendship and shared commitment to building a better future together.

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C'River Peace Advocates Train Yakurr Leaders to Fight Substance-Induced Violence

UGEP— As part of its ongoing intervention to reduce gender-based violence (GBV) in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, Partners for Peace (P4P) Cross River chapter recently organised a community dialogue and training session targeting traditional leaders, youth groups, women, and other peace actors. The training highlighted the critical role of substance abuse — particularly alcohol, tramadol, and cannabis — in driving domestic violence in the area.

The activity, part of P4P's intervention tagged "Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Reduction in Ugep", also led to the formation and inauguration of a Drugs/GBV Monitoring Committee, headed by the PFN Chairman of Ugep. The committee will coordinate community-based efforts to monitor substance use and curb GBV.

In his remarks, P4P Cross River State Coordinator Eteng Eteng, represented by the secretary, emphasized that drugs remain one of the major causes of GBV in Yakurr. He noted that when communities, through age grades and other traditional structures, mainstream drugs and GBV awareness into their programs, it can significantly reduce the incidence of domestic violence.

During the training, facilitators highlighted how excessive alcohol consumption and non-medical use of tramadol and cannabis escalate domestic tensions, fuel aggression, and undermine family cohesion. Evidence from community health research across Nigeria, including Cross River State, shows that these substances are widely abused, particularly among youths, contributing to reckless behaviour and conflicts at home.

Facilitators further explained that alcohol lowers inhibitions and impairs judgment, increasing the likelihood of verbal and physical abuse, while tramadol abuse exacerbates aggression and mood swings, and cannabis use is linked to impaired social functioning and household conflict.

The dialogue encouraged community leaders to intensify awareness campaigns, strengthen early reporting systems, and support access to rehabilitation services, stressing that tackling substance abuse is key to reducing GBV and promoting community security.

Community leaders present at the event pledged vigilance and cooperation with peace actors to mitigate substance-driven violence. "We must not only address the symptoms but also the socio-economic factors that push our youths towards substance misuse," said one traditional ruler.

P4P committed to expanding similar training across neighbouring local government areas and to working with NGOs, schools, and religious organizations to embed drug abuse prevention and conflict resolution modules into community programs.

The initiative reinforces broader peacebuilding efforts in Cross River State, aiming to reduce household conflict, foster non-violent dispute resolution, and improve the safety and well-being of residents.

Gov Otu Receives NYCN Leadership in Adiabo, Vows to Do More for Young People in 2026

Ukorebi Esien | January 3, 2026

CALABAR – Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has reassured young people in the state of his administration's unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, promising that more opportunities and interventions will be rolled out in 2026.

The Governor gave the assurance while receiving the leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, led by its Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, who paid a New Year homage to him at his country home in Adiabo, Odukpani Local Government Area.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Otu described young people as the engine of development and said his government would continue to invest deliberately in programmes that enhance their skills, productivity and economic independence.

"You haven't seen anything yet. More is coming," the Governor assured the youth leaders, adding that interventions promised to some groups would begin to materialise from February, while appealing for patience from those yet to benefit, noting that empowerment programmes would gradually reach every segment of the youth population across the state.

Earlier, NYCN Chairman Emmanuel Olayi said the visit was to thank the Governor for his impactful youth-friendly policies and programmes in 2025, particularly in the areas of skills acquisition, ICT and agriculture.

According to Olayi, over 400 young persons were trained across different agricultural value chains through programmes facilitated by the Ministry of Wealth Creation and related agencies, with beneficiaries empowered to the tune of about ₦800 million. He also disclosed that 100 youths were trained in ICT-related field, after which they were provided with laptops and start-up tools worth over ₦36 million.

He further commended Governor Otu for intentionally placing youth at the centre of governance, citing the establishment of a youth empowerment scheme headed by a young professional, Dr. Kalita Aruku, as evidence of the administration's deliberate inclusion of young people in decision-making.

The NYCN chairman also applauded the Governor's Christmas palliative and welfare interventions, noting that the distribution of relief materials and financial support across communities made the festive season more bearable for many families.

On behalf of young people in the state, Olayi pledged the continued loyalty and support of the youth constituency, assuring the Governor of their readiness to deploy their energy towards community development, peacebuilding and the security of Cross River State.

The event attracted several dignitaries, including APC leaders and their spouses, members of the National Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, party executives, community and youth leaders, student representatives, and traditional rulers. The gathering also featured cultural displays, masquerades and communal celebrations, adding colour to what many described as a symbolic New Year pilgrimage to Adiabo.

The visit underscored the growing alignment between the Otu administration and the youth population, through the NYCN structure as the state looks ahead to expanded youth-focused policies and programmes in 2026

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