UNICAL: Faculty of Communication And Media Studies Holds Orientation For Fresh Students As Dean, HoDs Preach Ethical Behaviour

 Ukorebi Esien  | February 7,2026

CALABAR – The Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, University of Calabar, has held an orientation exercise for its fresh students who were recently admitted for the 2025/2026 academic session. 

The faculty is made up of seven departments, including advertising, broadcasting, development communication, journalism and media studies, mass communication, and strategic communication.

In an opening remark at the event held at Sen. Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre, University of Calabar, the pioneer Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Esekong Andrew-Essien, expressed appreciation to the staff and students of the faculty for making the orientation exercise possible and sought for co-operation, collaboration, and support in leaving footprints that will endure on the sands of time. 

"When I assumed office as the Dean of this Faculty, my prayer to God, was to help me leave footprints in our faculty.

"With our first outing, I can see that God is beginning to answer that prayer. We thank you, our staff and students, for coming out in large numbers for this first orientation exercise.

"Our guests of honour are also appreciated. Let me also seek your continued collaboration and support in achieving our set goals that will stand the test of time in our faculty." Esekong appealed.

Addressing the fresh students on the need to conduct themselves in an ethical manner throughout their stay in the university, the keynote speaker, Prof. Stanislaus Iyorza, further admonished the students to exhibit lifestyles that they will be proud of tomorrow and urged them to take their studies seriously in their own interests.

"As you have come to the University, be reminded that at the end of your studies, you shall be expected to be found worthy in character and in learning. In view of this, conduct yourselves in an ethical manner throughout your stay here." Iyorza, admonished. 

The guest speakers, Engr. Dr. Samuel Oliver Effiom and Mr. Victor Awak Anam, motivated the students by sharing their respective life's stories and enjoined them to be determined, focused, and strong-willed in order to attain the great future they aspire for in their various endeavours. 

In his remarks, the Head of Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Lawrence Ekwok advised the new students on the need to manage their freedom on campus properly by prioritizing academics above socials and dressing in a responsible way as media practitioners in the making.

Also, in his remarks, the FIRST Head, Department of Journalism and Media Studies in the University, Dr. Ukam I. Ngwu, Esq, admonished the Students, particularly those admitted into the Department of Journalism and Media Studies (JMS) to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the University to equip themselves with the requisite knowledge and expertise needed to drive the media sector and redeem our society from fake news..

Equally canvassing for ethical behaviour, the Head of the Department of Broadcasting, Dr. Patrick Edem Okon, also admonished the students to encourage their friends, relatives, and associates to choose broadcasting as a veritable field of media practice.

 He highlighted the powers in the hands of broadcasters to include entertaining and providing relaxation moments for the people through music and drama, providing 'voice' for self-expression and identity formations, capturing and representing images of social realities to create awareness of social conditions to help people make informed decisions about their life and future.

Congratulating the freshers, especially the pioneer students of the department of PR, on their admission into the prestigious institution, the Head of department of Public Relations, Dr. Eric Ogri,  advised them to make good use of the opportunity to excel academically by shunning all forms of social vices. 

Ogri enjoined the students to embrace hard work, self-discipline and undivided commitment to their studies, describing them as prospective image makers of the society, and therefore, they must embrace professionalism and excellence as their watch words.

Speaking on disciplinary conduct, the Head of department of Advertising, Dr Mrs Edem Eking,  also advised students to avoid all forms of fraudulent acts, exams malpractice, violence, indecent dressing, drugs, cultism amongst others.

According to her, such immoral acts could make them to graduate with poor grades, get suspended or be expelled from school.

In his pep talk,  the Head of department of Strategic Communication, Dr. Mensah Eyamba, equally advised the students to embrace research and data analytics, drone photography and videography, strategic content creation, social media management, crisis communication and management, persuasion.

According to him,. message design, corporate/organizational communication, marketing/brand communication, media planning, international communication, as well as political campaign communication are sin qua non in modern day societal communication.

Mensah, who doubles as Examination Officer, further advised the students on the need to register  courses on time as the University operates "no registration, no exam" policy even as he outlined I also outlined some information governing their conduct before, during and after exams as well as the procedure for handling examination results related issues.

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

NYCN C'River Hosts Strategic Dialogue with Voluntary Youth Organisations

Ukorebi Esien | February 7, 2026

CALABAR – The Cross River State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has held a strategic dialogue with leaders of Voluntary Youth Organisations (VYOs) aimed at strengthening unity, coordination and effective youth advocacy across the state.

The engagement, which took place earlier today at the Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu Youth House, Calabar, brought together leaders of affiliate and member organisations under the NYCN umbrella to deliberate on sustaining the vision of the founding fathers of the Council and reinforcing its mandate as the apex youth body.

Speaking during the meeting, the NYCN leadership emphasised the need for all Voluntary Youth Organisations to operate within the framework of their establishment while aligning their activities with the collective vision of the Council. The dialogue, according to the Council, was designed to promote unity of purpose and strengthen collaboration in advancing policies and programmes that are pro-youth development.

The Council also used the opportunity to commend the immense contributions of Voluntary Youth Organisations over the years, particularly in grooming disciplined, responsible and value-driven young people. Special recognition was given to organisations such as the Boys' Brigade, Girls' Guide, Boys Scouts, PYPAN, CYON, Man O' War, Red Cross, YOUWICAN and several others for their sustained impact in youth development and character building.

The NYCN leadership assured participants of its commitment to providing an enabling environment for productive partnerships, noting that under its watch, youth advocacy would be protected from distortion and aligned strictly with the collective interests of young people in the state.

The dialogue ended with a renewed commitment from participating organisations to uphold unity, strengthen cooperation and work collectively through the NYCN platform to advance sustainable youth development initiatives across Cross River State.

NYCN C'River to Hold 2026 Youth Solemn Assembly in Calabar

Ukorebi Esien | February 6, 2026

CALABAR. – The Cross River State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has announced plans to host the Cross River Youth Solemn Assembly 2026, a convergence aimed at fostering unity, love and collective purpose among young people across the state.

According to a flyer released by the Council, the Solemn Assembly is scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 7, 2026, by 9:00am at His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu's Youth House, Calabar.

Themed "Love: Unity's Core Principle," with a scriptural reference from John 13:34–35, the event is designed to reinforce the values of love, togetherness and shared responsibility as critical foundations for youth development and sustainable peace in Cross River State.

The NYCN stated that the Solemn Assembly will bring together youths from diverse backgrounds, leaders of voluntary youth organisations, stakeholders, and members of the general public to reflect, interact and recommit to the ideals that bind the youth constituency as one indivisible force.

The Council noted that the programme aligns with its mandate of promoting unity among young people and strengthening a common voice for youth advocacy, development and civic engagement across the state.
Stakeholders, youth leaders and interested members of the public have been cordially invited to attend the event, which is expected to serve as a platform for inspiration, moral renewal and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence and collective progress.

For further enquiries, the organisers provided contact lines: +234 703 536 4071 and +234 803 342 7009.

Only Licensed Professionals Should Practice Journalism — UNICAL Don

 Ukorebi Esien |  February 4, 2026

A senior academic at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) has called for stricter regulation of journalism practice in Nigeria, insisting that only licensed professionals should be allowed to operate in the media space to curb the rising tide of fake news and quackery.

The call was made by the Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Dr. Ukam I. Ngwu, Esq., during an orientation programme organised by the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies for newly admitted students of the faculty. The event was held at the University of Calabar International Conference Centre.

Dr. Ngwu decried what he described as the invasion of the media space by unqualified individuals, which he identified as the root cause of the proliferation of misinformation and declining professional standards in journalism practice across the country.

According to him, accurate, credible and reliable information has become increasingly scarce in Nigeria due to the absence of effective regulation and enforcement mechanisms guiding journalism practice.

"The porosity in journalism practice has given room for quackery and fake news to thrive," Ngwu said. "There is an urgent need for legislation that will regulate the media space and restrict journalism practice to only licensed professionals who have been properly trained and certified."

He urged students of Journalism and Media Studies, in particular, to take advantage of the academic and professional training provided by the university to equip themselves with the requisite knowledge, skills and ethical grounding needed to reposition the media sector and restore public trust.

Ngwu stressed that journalism plays a critical role in societal development and democratic governance, warning that misinformation and unethical reporting pose serious threats to national cohesion, informed decision-making and sustainable development.

The orientation exercise, organised to familiarise fresh students with academic expectations and professional ethics, formed part of the faculty's broader effort to raise a new generation of responsible media practitioners committed to truth, accountability and public interest.

Participants at the event were also encouraged to uphold the core values of accuracy, balance and integrity, as the university continues to emphasise character and learning as the twin pillars of its academic training.

NYCN–Ministry Engagement Sets Agenda for Youth Development in 2026

Ukorebi Esien | February 5, 2026

CALABAR— The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, has commenced activities for the 2026 year with a strategic engagement with the Ministry of Youth Development, aimed at aligning priorities and strengthening youth-focused governance in the state.

The courtesy visit, held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, brought the leadership of the NYCN together with top management officials of the Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary, Director of Youth, Director of Administration, and the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Barrister Ukam Ijom Charles.

Leading the NYCN delegation, the State Chairman, Comrade Olayi Emmanuel, said the meeting provided an opportunity for a comprehensive appraisal of youth development interventions in 2025, highlighting key achievements, challenges encountered, and lessons learned. He noted that the engagement also served as a platform to present the Council's strategic outlook and expectations for 2026.

According to Comrade Olayi, the NYCN used the meeting to raise critical youth-related concerns, including institutional issues that arose at the close of 2025, while reaffirming its role as the umbrella youth organization in the state. He explained that the Ministry reviewed the concerns raised and reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement with the Council in advancing youth development policies.

The NYCN chairman commended the Ministry for its supervisory role and for implementing youth-focused initiatives under the People's First agenda of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu. He further expressed confidence in the Governor's leadership, citing the administration's renewed efforts toward economic growth, infrastructural development, and youth inclusion, including the ongoing drive to reclaim the state's oil wells.

Reaffirming the Council's position, Comrade Olayi assured the Ministry of the NYCN's readiness to partner with government in the implementation of programmes that empower youths and promote peace across communities in Cross River State.

In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Ukam Ijom Charles, expressed gratitude to God for the preservation of his life and that of his team following a recent road traffic accident. He commended the NYCN for its proactive approach to youth engagement and peace promotion, and assured the Council of the Ministry's continued openness to dialogue and solutions-driven collaboration.

The Commissioner further emphasized the Ministry's commitment to working closely with youth stakeholders to ensure that 2026 delivers improved outcomes for young people in Cross River State.

The engagement signals a renewed partnership between the NYCN and the Ministry of Youth Development, setting a coordinated agenda for youth empowerment, peacebuilding, and sustainable development in the year ahead.

CRIRS Deepens Grassroots Engagement on Tax Reform

Ukorebi Esien | February 4, 2026

CALABAR -The Cross River Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has intensified its grassroots engagement on the implementation of the New Tax Reform Acts with a sensitization session for members of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Retailers (LPGAR), Cross River State Chapter, a branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

The engagement, aimed at promoting understanding and voluntary compliance, was led by the Director of Informal Sector and New Growth Areas, Mr. Peter Ikpa, alongside the South Zonal Director, Mr. Bassey Uwem. Other members of the CRIRS team included the Head of Revenue Assurance, Dr. Patience Egwu; Head of Direct Assessment, Mrs. Comfort Okoma; Head of Corporate Communications, Mrs Achiane Adams; and Head of Tax Education and Enlightenment, Mrs. Barbara Odey.

During the session, LPG retailers were taken through the key provisions of the new Tax Acts, with emphasis on tax harmonization, compliance requirements, and the procedures for filing annual returns under the reformed tax framework. The CRIRS team also addressed concerns raised by operators, clarifying grey areas and dispelling misconceptions surrounding the reforms.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ikpa assured the retailers that the reforms are designed to ease the tax burden on businesses in the long run, while creating a more transparent and efficient revenue system. He urged members to ignore misinformation and to engage directly with the Service for accurate information and guidance.

In his response, the Chairman of the LPGAR Cross River State Chapter, Mr. Udeke Emmanuel, commended CRIRS for bringing the sensitization to the grassroots, describing the engagement as timely and informative. He reaffirmed the union's commitment to complying with statutory tax obligations and partnering with the Service to ensure smooth implementation of the reforms.

The sensitization exercise forms part of CRIRS' broader strategy to carry stakeholders along in the implementation of the new tax regime, particularly within the informal sector and emerging growth areas across the state.

Forestry Commission Chairman Congratulates Gov. Otu on Honorary Doctorate, Sun Governor of the Year Award

Ukorebi Esein | February 3, 2026

CALABAR - The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Forestry Commission, Ntufam Rt. Hon. Deacon George O'ben-Etchi, PhD, FCIA, has congratulated the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on his recent conferment with an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities by Modibbo Adama University, Yola, as well as his recognition as Sun Governor of the Year.

In a congratulatory message released on Sunday, O'ben-Etchi described the dual honours as a well-deserved recognition of Governor Otu's exceptional leadership, dedication to public service, and people-centred governance philosophy.

According to him, the awards reflect the Governor's impactful contributions to governance and humanitarian development, not only in Cross River State but across Nigeria.

"These honours speak eloquently to Your Excellency's visionary leadership, commitment to public service, and tireless efforts toward inclusive development," the message read.

The Forestry Commission boss noted that Governor Otu's leadership style—anchored on empathy, accountability, and sustainable development—has continued to inspire confidence among citizens and stakeholders, while repositioning Cross River State on a path of progress and renewed hope.

He further commended the Governor for his unwavering focus on policies and initiatives that prioritize the welfare of the people and strengthen institutions for long-term development.

O'ben-Etchi concluded by reaffirming his loyalty and support to the Governor's administration, while wishing him continued strength and wisdom in the service of Cross River State and the nation at large.

“You Lifted Our Dreams” — Students, Teachers Write Rep. Bassey Akiba for School Support

Ukorebi Esien | February 5, 2026

ODUKPANI– Students and teachers across beneficiary schools in Odukpani Local Government Area have expressed deep gratitude to the House of Representatives member for Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency, Rep. Bassey Akiba, following his far-reaching Educational Support Programme that eased the burden of schooling for hundreds of learners.

The appreciation followed the distribution of school bags, exercise books and the payment of school and examination fees for pupils and students in examination classes, an intervention executed through the Bassey Akiba Foundation.

In a formal Letter of Acknowledgement dated February 3, 2026, the Head Teacher of one of the beneficiary schools, Mrs. Affiong N. Ekpenyong, conveyed the collective appreciation of school authorities, pupils and the host community.

"I hereby acknowledge the receipt of the bags and books sent to our school. The head teacher of the school thanks you for your good effort; the teachers, the children and the community also thank you for your good work. I pray for God to guide you and give you long life and more grace from God Almighty in your office," the letter read.

"Once again, I say thank you," she added.

Beyond the written commendation, school administrators and teachers who witnessed the exercise described the initiative as a rare and sincere grassroots intervention.

The Principal of Government Comprehensive High School, Ikunitu, Mr. Inyang Inyang, said the programme had restored hope to families who were struggling to keep their children in school.

"This exercise has come to raise hope for the hopeless. For many years, we have not seen this kind of intervention done directly. This time, the team moved into the communities and schools. We are very happy," he said.

He prayed for continued success for the lawmaker, noting that Rep. Akiba's actions reflected genuine representation and compassion for ordinary people at the grassroots.

Similarly, the Deputy Head Teacher of Pisan Primary School, Yawo Kulika, Mrs. Nyamise Nyufum, said the intervention came as a pleasant surprise, especially as the school had not benefited from previous editions.

"This year, the foundation came not only with learning materials but also paid the school fees for our children. We are very grateful. This will go a long way in alleviating poverty because parents find it very difficult to pay fees and buy materials," she stated.

Students, speaking through representatives in several schools, described the support as life-changing, noting that many had feared dropping out due to financial challenges. One message from beneficiaries captured the mood:

"Many of us had begun to fear that our dreams were too heavy for our circumstances, but your kindness lifted the weight from our shoulders and taught us that greatness can rise from humble places."

The Educational Support Programme targets pupils and students in Primary 6, JSS3 and SS3, covering school fees, examination fees, school bags and exercise books, and forms part of Rep. Akiba's broader commitment to educational empowerment over material handouts.

Community leaders and education stakeholders have described the initiative as a strong statement that investing in education remains the most sustainable path to youth development and societal progress.

La’Shakara Targets Grassroots Development with Needs Assessment

Ukorebi Esien | February 5, 2026

ODUKPANI — In a deliberate move to promote inclusive and sustainable development at the grassroots, Mr. Joseph Edet (La'Shakara), Managing Director of Summit Hills Estate Development Services Limited, has embarked on a comprehensive community needs assessment across the OMO bloc of Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, culminating in the flag-off of critical infrastructure projects.

Speaking at the project flag-off ceremony, La'Shakara explained that the intervention was driven by firsthand engagement with community members rather than political considerations. According to him, the needs assessment exercise revealed urgent gaps in access to potable water, electricity, and public lighting, prompting immediate action to address these challenges. He stressed that meaningful development must begin with listening to the people and responding directly to their most pressing needs.

Based on the outcome of the assessment, projects flagged off include the drilling of boreholes in Adiabo Community, Ikot Okon, and the Calabar Oil Palm Estate in Odukpani Central Ward; a borehole at Obomitiat Community in Mbiabo/Obomitiat/Ediong Ward; and another at Atan Odot Community in Odot Ward. Also included are the provision of a power transformer and installation of solar-powered street lights at Odukpani Junction in Odukpani Quay Town.

State officials and stakeholders at the event commended La'Shakara for aligning his initiative with the "Season of Sweetness" development agenda of the Cross River State Government. Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba, Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, described the intervention as a demonstration of purposeful leadership and a clear reflection of the Governor's vision for people-oriented development.

The Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area lauded La'Shakara as a channel of progress for the OMO bloc, noting that the transformer project at Odukpani Junction would significantly improve economic activities and public safety in the area. He, however, urged beneficiaries to take ownership of the projects by safeguarding them against vandalism and ensuring proper maintenance.

Also speaking, the APC Chairman in Odukpani, Mr. Edem Anam, said the projects have strengthened public confidence in leadership at the grassroots, while Mr. Kenneth Anam, Special Assistant in the Office of the Wife of the Governor, noted that La'Shakara's actions redefine public service by returning dividends of governance to the people.

As part of the intervention, La'Shakara also disbursed cash grants to over 100 preselected beneficiaries from the OMO bloc, reinforcing his commitment to both infrastructure development and human empowerment.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Otu Otu Etim, marking what community leaders described as the beginning of a renewed chapter of development for Odukpani communities.

“Always Pray for Us” — Fed Lawmaker Begs Constituents Amid Projects Inauguration

Ukorebi Esien | February 5, 2026

BEKWARA — A Federal lawmaker representing Obudu/Bekwara/Obanliku Federal Constituency has urged his constituents to continually uphold him and other public office holders in prayers, stressing that effective leadership and sustained development depend on divine guidance and the collective support of the people.

The appeal was made by Hon. Peter Akpanke during the commissioning of a classroom block at Community Primary School, Olokpa, Betem Ward, Bekwara Local Government Area, as part of a constituency-wide projects inauguration tour.

Addressing community members, traditional rulers, women, youths, pupils, and political leaders, the lawmaker said that beyond physical projects, prayer remains a vital pillar for leadership, noting that public service is best delivered when leaders are spiritually supported by those they represent.

"More than you pray for us and support us, I will continue to pray for you. Always pray for your leaders so that we can continue to bring the dividends of democracy to you," Akpanke said.

 

The commissioned classroom block is aimed at improving learning conditions, easing congestion in existing classrooms, and strengthening basic education in the rural community. Community leaders noted that increasing enrolment had overstretched available facilities, making the intervention timely.

The Councillor representing Betem Ward in the Bekwara Legislative Assembly, Hon. James Ugar Godwin, described the project as impactful, noting that access to quality education infrastructure remains a major challenge in many rural areas of the local government.

On behalf of the Olokpa community, Mr. Sylvester Obri said the new classrooms would decongest existing learning spaces and attract teachers, given the improved facilities.

"The importance of this project cannot be overemphasised. It will stand the test of time and benefit future generations," Obri said.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Aviation, Dr. Ken Akla, described the project as a strategic investment in human capital development, stressing that education infrastructure plays a crucial role in shaping future leaders.

He observed that the Olokpa commissioning was part of a broader series of education-related projects being inaugurated across the constituency, reflecting sustained attention to grassroots development.

Hon. Akpanke said the Olokpa project was part of a wider intervention covering Obudu, Bekwara, and Obanliku LGAs, noting that his representation has continued to prioritise education, solar lighting, water supply, and youth-focused initiatives.

He urged community members to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance, adding that development efforts yield lasting impact when communities protect public assets.

The commissioning ceremony ended with prayers for the lawmaker, the state, and the nation, as residents pledged continued support while calling for further attention to other pressing community needs, including potable water.