Cross River Youth Leadership Reacts to NYCN Delisting by CAC

Ukorebi Esien | October 8, 2025

CALABAR –The recent decision by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to withdraw the registration certificate of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has continued to generate nationwide reactions, with youth leaders and government officials urging calm, dialogue, and respect for due process.

While the development has raised concerns about the legal status of the apex youth body in Nigeria, key stakeholders in Cross River State have maintained that the state's youth leadership remains intact and functional.

Speaking in Calabar, the Chairman of the NYCN Cross River State Chapter, His Youthfulness Emmanuel Olayi, described the viral document announcing the delisting as "unofficial and unconfirmed," noting that no formal correspondence has been received from either the Federal Ministry of Youth or the CAC.

"We have seen flying news here and there about the delisting of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, but as of this morning, the status of the council is still active on CAC's portal," Olayi said.

"For us in Cross River, there is no crisis. The youth of the state are united, peaceful, and working together. Our structure remains intact under my leadership," he assured.

Olayi, who emphasized that leadership struggles were natural in large organizations, appealed to national actors to prioritize peace and the unity of Nigerian youths over power tussles.

"We should not continue to fight over what we should not fight over. Our generation deserves peace, not endless power struggles," he added.

"Action in Contempt of Court" — NYCN National Deputy Secretary

Corroborating Olayi's position, the Deputy National Secretary of NYCN, Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo described CAC's action as a possible contempt of court, alleging that an existing appeal court judgment had restrained the commission and the Federal Ministry of Youth from taking such steps.

"Before now, there was a court judgment barring CAC and the Ministry from delisting the Youth Council. If it is true that CAC has gone ahead with this, it is contempt of court," he stated.

Prince Ndiye insisted that the NYCN remains a legally recognized institution and not a factional body, dismissing suggestions that the action affects the state structures.

"Cross River and other states remain intact. Nobody has withdrawn Sokubo's presidency; what they are fighting is the entire youth council system, not an individual," he maintained.

He, however, called on all stakeholders to "choose dialogue over destruction" to preserve youth representation in national policy processes.

We Await Federal Directive — Cross River Commissioner for Youth

Reacting to the development, the Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Ijom Ukam, said the state government was aware of the situation but would wait for official communication from the Federal Ministry of Youth before taking any action.

"CAC is legally empowered to regulate corporate entities in Nigeria. However, as a sub-national, we await the directive from the Federal Ministry of Youth on what steps to take," the Commissioner stated.

On the legal controversy surrounding the move, Ukam said the action appeared to be post-election, following the disputed national congress of the NYCN, rather than a pre-emptive move.

"The delisting does not mean the Council cannot be re-listed if it puts its house in order. Once the internal crisis is resolved, the CAC may have no reason not to restore its registration," he added.

Analysts Question Oversight and Youth Representation

Analysts and youth observers say the situation exposes long-standing tensions between the Federal Ministry of Youth, the CAC, and NYCN leadership: particularly regarding oversight, transition, and autonomy. They warn that unless addressed through dialogue, the move could weaken youth representation nationwide, disrupt state-level programs, and affect Nigeria's engagement with international youth development partners.

Call for Peace and Reconciliation

As the controversy unfolds, the consensus among stakeholders remains clear: the need for dialogue, reconciliation, and institutional reform to safeguard youth governance in Nigeria.

In the words of the Cross River NYCN Chairman:

"Our youth must learn to build bridges, not walls. Power comes and goes, but unity keeps the dream of a better Nigeria alive."

–End–

How five Cross River patriots answered the call of Destiny

When Destiny Calls, Sacrifice Answers

How five Cross River patriots answered the call — and what their stories tell us about service, courage and the state's future

Ukorebi Esien I October 6, 2025

CALABAR, October 2, 2025 — On a cool October night at Shettima Hall, the Destiny Cross River Awards declared, in no uncertain terms, that the highest calling for a public life in Cross River is sacrifice. The maiden edition brought together faith leaders, public servants, academics and traditional rulers to honour five people whose lives have been marked by uncommon service: Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, CON, Prof. Kelvin Etta, Chief Anthony Ani, CON, and Sen. Florence Ita-Giwa.

Under the pulpit voice of Archbishop Josef Bassey, convener of the Awards, the evening framed their stories not as personal triumphs but as building blocks of a collective destiny. a destiny that, the Archbishop said, "is not fulfilled by chance; it is secured by sacrifice." Below are fuller, human portraits of each awardee, the paths they took, the burdens they bore, and why the Destiny Awards chose to celebrate them while they still walk among us.

Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu 
Governor of Cross River State 

Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu – The Turnaround Manager of a New Cross River

Award: Destiny Cross River Grand Commander Award

When history remembers this era, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu (Sweet Prince), will be remembered as the man who restored confidence, order, and direction to Cross River State.

From the moment he assumed office as Governor, Otu demonstrated quiet but firm leadership, focusing on rebuilding institutions rather than making noise. His administration's People-First philosophy has reconnected government to the common man, revived moribund agencies, and rekindled hope among civil servants and investors alike.

Archbishop Josef Bassey, convener of the Destiny Awards, described him as "a turnaround manager who chose results over rhetoric." The cleric noted that while others complain, Otu works: "We have all the data, memos, and reports of the past administration, yet you have chosen silence and service over blame."

The Destiny Cross River Grand Commander Award was therefore conferred on Governor Otu for his intentional developmental strides, restorative leadership, and uncompromising focus on the collective destiny of Cross Riverians. His quiet transformation across infrastructure, education, and governance has repositioned the state — not with fanfare, but with faith and results.

Chief Kanu Agabi SAN

Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, CON – The Legal Sage and Defender of Institutions

Award: Destiny Patriarchal Laureate Award

Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, CON, occupies a distinguished place in Nigeria's history as a jurist, public intellectual, and conscience of the legal profession. A two-time Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Agabi has spent decades at the heart of Nigeria's legal evolution, where the defense of truth often demands courage greater than ambition.

Born in Cross River State, Agabi's journey through public life has been defined by an unyielding devotion to principle. From his early days as a brilliant lawyer to his years shaping national legal discourse, he has stood firmly for the sanctity of the rule of law, constitutional order, and institutional integrity.

The Destiny Cross River Awards described him as "a man whose quiet intellect and moral courage have become pillars of Nigeria's democracy." His selection for the Destiny Patriarchal Laureate Award was not merely for longevity in service, but for his unwavering belief that justice is the soul of governance.

While receiving his honour, Chief Agabi, in his characteristic humility, said:

"This award is a tonic that will spur me to do more in the service of humanity."

That statement summed up the heart of his legacy — service renewed, never retired. Even in an era of politicised law, Agabi has remained a defender of institutions, reminding Nigerians that the legal profession must not serve power, but balance it.

For Cross Riverians, his recognition was deeply symbolic: it affirmed that integrity is still a public virtue. His name now stands in the roll of honour as a man who, through intellect, humility, and courage, ensured that Nigeria's democracy has a conscience and Cross River State, a model of moral service.

Prof. Kelvin Etta 

Prof. Kelvin Etta – The Unbending Reformer and Academic Visionary

Award: Destiny Patriarchal Defender Emeritus Award

If institutions are the memory of society, then Prof. Kelvin Etta has helped Cross River remember what discipline, integrity, and excellence look like. As former Vice Chancellor of both the University of Calabar (UNICAL) and the Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH), his name has become synonymous with reform and courage.

Throughout his career, Prof. Etta has been a builder, sometimes gentle, often firm: but always focused on leaving behind systems that outlive individuals. His approach to leadership blended high standards with deep humanity, producing not just graduates but generations of leaders.

During his emotional acceptance speech at the Destiny Cross River Awards, he said:

"If there's anyone I must have hurt or offended in the course of my public service and in the pursuit of success with a determination to leave behind beautiful footprints in the sands of life, please find a place in your heart to forgive me. It wasn't intentional, but out of our passion to serve and succeed."

That heartfelt plea captured a truth often buried in leadership, that reform is rarely painless. His humility to seek forgiveness, even while being celebrated, demonstrated the soul of a man who understands that greatness demands grace.

For the Destiny Awards, Prof. Etta's selection carried profound symbolism. He personifies the educational backbone of Cross River's destiny, a state that thrives when learning and discipline coexist. His award, the Destiny Patriarchal Defender Emeritus, honoured his resilience, tenacity, and lifelong defence of academic excellence.

Prof. Etta's story is a masterclass in sacrificial leadership. His reforms, though sometimes uncomfortable, were driven by a passion to build strong institutions. His legacy is written not only in policies or buildings but in minds transformed and standards restored. In every sense, he stands as the conscience of education in Cross River, proof that when destiny calls, conviction must answer.

Etubom Anthony Ani 

Chief Anthony Ani, CON – The Financial Sage and Nation Builder

Award: Destiny Legends Protocol Award

To those who study Nigeria's fiscal history, Chief Anthony Ani, CON, is more than a public servant, he is an institution. A former Minister of Finance and one-time Chairman of the Akwa Ibom/Calabar Free Trade Zone Authority, Ani's name commands respect across business and government circles for his unflinching commitment to fiscal discipline, transparency, and long-term vision.

At a time when Nigeria's economy faced daunting uncertainty, Chief Ani stood out as a voice of reason and prudence. His leadership in economic management was marked by tough decisions taken not for applause, but for posterity. His stewardship helped to set parameters for responsible financial governance in a nation often distracted by politics.

The Destiny Cross River Awards described him as "a financial sage whose discipline sustained national growth and whose wisdom inspires generations." His recognition under the Legends Protocol Category reflected the organisers' desire to honour a lifetime of sacrifice in service to national prosperity.

For Cross River, his award is a reminder that financial integrity is foundational to the state's destiny. His life teaches that good governance is not about slogans, but systems — and that wealth, when wisely managed, can be a pathway to collective progress. The Destiny Legends Protocol Award thus stands as both a tribute and a challenge: that future leaders must serve with the same courage, restraint, and foresight that defined Chief Ani's decades of public service.

 

Sen. Florence Ita-Giwa 

Senator Florence Ita-Giwa – The Destiny Matriarch and Voice of the Voiceless

Award: Destiny Matriarchal Defender Award

Few names evoke compassion and courage in Nigeria's public space like Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, affectionately known as Mama Bakassi. Her life story reads like a chapter of Nigeria's conscience, decades of advocacy for the displaced, the voiceless, and especially the people of Bakassi whose plight she has championed for years.

A trailblazer in politics and social advocacy, Ita-Giwa's service has cut across the legislature, humanitarian causes, and women's empowerment. As a senator, she became a formidable voice for equity, and as a humanitarian, she has dedicated her life to rebuilding lives uprooted by conflict and displacement.

Receiving the Destiny Matriarchal Defender Award, she stood not just as an individual honouree but as a symbol of every woman who has fought to be heard. In her acceptance speech, she said:

"This honour is for every woman who has had to fight to be heard. It shows that our labour is not in vain."

The words drew a long ovation, not just for their sincerity, but for what they represented: the triumph of resilience over silence. Ita-Giwa's recognition as the first female recipient of the Destiny Awards sent a clear message, that leadership is not defined by gender, but by courage, compassion, and commitment to others.

Her decades of unrelenting advocacy for the Bakassi returnees have given hope to thousands and positioned her as one of Nigeria's most enduring voices for justice. The award organisers aptly described her as "the Destiny Matriarch , a mother to causes larger than herself."

Her selection is an acknowledgement that compassion too is sacrifice. Her life is a portrait of selfless service, proving that when destiny calls, love and humanity must answer.

Archbishop Josef Bassey 

The Convener: Archbishop Josef Bassey — Prophet and Catalyst

No account of the night would be complete without the convener himself. Archbishop Josef Bassey fashioned the Awards as a covenant: not merely ceremony, but a prophetic nudge toward a state that recognises, models and multiplies sacrificial service. His lines, "When leaders do wrong, we must say so. But when they do right, we must also acknowledge it" are a shortcut to the Awards' thesis: praise is corrective; praise is generative.

Why these awards matter

The Destiny Cross River Awards did more than hand plaques. It staged a moral argument: that public life must be about posterity, not just present advantage; that leadership is measured by what it leaves behind. Each awardee represents an element of that argument, institutional repair (Otu), rule of law (Agabi), educational resilience (Etta), financial stewardship (Ani), and social courage (Ita-Giwa).

The ceremony also modelled a public culture: honour today, not after the grave. Archbishop Bassey and Governor Otu both underscored the point. Otu's borrowed voice insisted that celebration of living patriots "strengthens the culture of sacrifice and inspires many more to follow their example." The Archbishop, for his part, framed the awards as a prophetic covenant to secure Cross River's destiny.

A simple covenant, a hard task

Destiny is not a slogan; it is a work plan. The people honoured on that night were chosen because their lives show how long and lonely that work can be. They remind us that when destiny calls, sacrifice answers, sometimes quietly, sometimes painfully, but always with an eye on what will outlast us.

As Cross River enters this season of rebuilding and hope, the Destiny Awards have given the state a readable template: celebrate courage, build institutions, forgive honestly, and keep faith with posterity. If those principles stick, the night at Shettima Hall will be remembered not only for the speeches and the applause, but for planting a culture that future leaders will be compelled to emulate.

 The Meaning Behind the Awards

The Destiny Cross River Awards were conceived by Archbishop Josef Bassey to honour living patriots — men and women who have shaped the state through selfless service, integrity, and sacrifice.

The theme of the night, "When Destiny Calls, Sacrifice Answers," captured the heart of the event: to remind Cross Riverians that greatness demands giving up comfort for purpose.

Each awardee's journey, from politics to education, law to finance, and advocacy to governance, forms a mosaic of what true leadership looks like: sacrifice with vision.

Expect Steady and Constant Water Supply Soon Calabar — Water Board MD Assures Residents

Ukorebi Esien  I October 7, 2025 

CALABAR — The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Water Board Limited, High Chief (Dr.) Godwin Inyam, has assured residents of Calabar and its environs that the era of water scarcity will soon be over, as the state government under Governor Bassey Edet Otu finalizes a major Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to revive the state's water supply system.

Speaking in Calabar, Dr. Inyam explained that the partnership, which involves Agua Global Services as concessionaire, has been carefully designed to restore regular water supply to households and businesses in the state capital and beyond. The arrangement, he said, gives the private firm 85 percent operational control, while the state government retains 15 percent, ensuring both efficiency and accountability in service delivery.

"I can confidently assure residents that water will soon flow again in Calabar. His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the engagement of a private partner to manage the Water Board, and all due processes are nearing completion," Inyam stated. "This administration is determined to end water scarcity and restore public confidence in the Water Board."

The Water Board boss revealed that the agency had for years faced severe operational challenges, including obsolete equipment, energy deficits, vandalized meters, and broken distribution networks. According to him, most of the Water Board's machines were installed over two decades ago, and the infrastructure had suffered significant wear and tear, making large-scale water production impossible.

He further noted that water production is a capital-intensive venture, citing the cost of a single water abstraction machine at ₦460 million, with standard operation requiring at least three to five units. These financial realities, he said, made government's decision to embrace a PPP arrangement not just practical but necessary.

"No state government can single-handedly sustain the cost of running a water utility at the required scale," Inyam explained. "That's why the PPP model, backed by His Excellency's vision, is the right path forward. It ensures we bring in the needed expertise, investment, and technology to serve the people better."

He disclosed that the state currently has over 1,200 distribution networks, out of which about 25 percent are damaged, mostly due to erosion and road construction. The incoming private partner, he added, will focus on rehabilitating these networks, replacing broken meters, and modernizing the entire production and reticulation system.

Dr. Inyam assured residents that the state government has completed all preliminary processes through the Bureau of Public-Private Partnership and the Council on Privatization, chaired by the Deputy Governor, in preparation for final approval by the State Executive Council (EXCO).

"Once the final approval is given, Agua Global Services will officially take over operations. From that point, Cross Riverians, especially residents of Calabar, will begin to experience steady water flow," he said.

The MD commended Governor Otu for his visionary leadership and commitment to public welfare, describing him as "a governor who truly puts the people first."

"Water is life, and the Governor understands that access to clean and safe water is not a privilege but a right. His administration's intervention in the Water Board will mark a turning point for Calabar and the entire state," he affirmed.

Dr. Inyam also appealed for public understanding and support as the transition process unfolds, assuring that the forthcoming reforms will deliver lasting improvements in water supply and quality of service.

"We are optimistic. The light is already shining at the end of the tunnel. Very soon, water will flow again in Calabar," he concluded.

Obong-Anwan Barbara, Peterside, Sanusi, Kukah, Others Call for Calm Over Dangote Refinery Dispute

Ukorebi Esien  |  October 7, 2025

ABUJA – A group of eminent Nigerians, including Obong-Anwan Barbara Etim James, Atedo Peterside (CON), Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), has called for calm and dialogue over the recent industrial dispute involving the Dangote Refinery.

In a joint statement released in Abuja on Monday, the group urged stakeholders to act with restraint and national interest, describing the refinery as a vital symbol of local investment and industrial growth.

"The Dangote Refinery is more than a private venture, it represents what bold domestic investment can achieve after decades of public-sector failure. Protecting such ventures while ensuring fair labour practices is vital to our shared future," the group said.

The statement, also endorsed by Arunma Oteh, Aisha Yesufu, Dr. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, and Opeyemi Adamolekun, was signed by Osita Chidoka, OFR, and Obong-Anwan Barbara Etim James.

The group outlined three guiding principles for Nigeria's economic progress: respect for workers' rights, protection of productive enterprises, and a commitment to transparency and social responsibility by major investors.

They cautioned that recurring disruptions around strategic national assets could weaken investor confidence and derail economic recovery efforts. Concerns about monopoly or market dominance, they added, should be handled through legal institutions such as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) rather than industrial actions that harm ordinary Nigerians.

"This crisis is not about one refinery or one company. It is about the direction of our economy, whether we continue in a cycle of scarcity and rent-seeking or build a future anchored on productivity, fairness, and shared prosperity," the group stated.

They commended the Federal Government, organised labour, and the management of Dangote Refinery for embracing dialogue to resolve the dispute and urged that this cooperative approach become a model for future industrial relations in Nigeria.

FRSC Boss Vows Tougher Sanctions as 46 Drivers Convicted in C'River Mobile Court

Christian Njoku  | 6, 2025

CALABAR —The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Cross River State, SC Innocent Etuk, has issued a stern warning to motorists to desist from violating traffic regulations or risk imprisonment, following the conviction of 46 out of 49 offenders during a mobile court session along the Calabar-Odukpani Road on Monday

Etuk who made the call on Monday along Calabar-Odukpani Road, during a mobile court proceeding to try drivers for various traffic infractions, said on his assumption of office he made it clear that he was ready to send many drivers to jail unless they repented.

The sitting presided by Magistrate Mr Eno Iyamba arraigned 49 traffic offenders, convicted 46 while three were discharged.

114 Offences were recorded with Drivers Licence Violation (DLV), Seatbelt Use Violation (SUV), Attempting Corrupt Marshal on duty (ACS) as most prevalent.

Road Safety Mobile Court in Session 

Speaking further, the sector commander said the exercise was the Corps strategic intervention to cut down the excesses of the motoring public in terms of traffic infractions.

"Today is another mobile court sitting to fulfill our mandate to bring down road crashes; at least once or twice every month, we carryout these intervention patrols to achieve our mandate.

"It is sad that despite our advocacies through the media and others, traffic infractions are not abating, last month many drivers were convicted for attempting to corrupt our men and this month it is still on the increase.

"In the month of Sept. we did not convict any driver for Dangerous Driving (DGD) but this month we have already convicted one and it took our synergy with sister agencies to get this done," he said.

He noted that as the "ember" months continued, the Corps had identified flash points in the state where it normally encounters challenges such as Odukpani Junction, Okurikang, Ikom Four Corner and Ogoja towards Vandekia.

He said they are also planning to have a camp around Okurikang that would be on and effective till late in the night to enable the Corps reduce response time in the case of any emergency.

Nigeria @65: NOA Urges Citizens to Embrace National Values and Responsibility

Ukorebi Esien I October 1, 2025 

ABUJA — As Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence Anniversary, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on citizens to look beyond ceremonial festivities and embrace renewed patriotism, civic responsibility, and value-driven citizenship.

In a goodwill message, NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the anniversary provides Nigerians with an opportunity to reflect deeply on the meaning of nationhood, drawing strength from diversity, resilience, and shared aspirations for peace and progress.

He emphasized that Nigeria's future depends not only on leaders but also on how citizens uphold core national values such as discipline, integrity, self-reliance, and social justice in their daily lives.

"The future of Nigeria depends not just on leaders in office, but on how every citizen chooses to uphold these values in everyday life," Issa-Onilu stated.

The NOA boss acknowledged President Bola Tinubu's ongoing efforts to revive the economy and urged Nigerians to complement such initiatives through civic engagement, volunteerism, and active participation in community development.

He further stressed that true patriotism is expressed not only through symbolic acts but also in everyday conduct — respecting national symbols, upholding the rule of law, and contributing positively to society.

Issa-Onilu also tasked schools, religious institutions, traditional leaders, and civil society groups to use the occasion of Independence to lead discussions on national identity, cultural preservation, and active citizenship.

Reaffirming the Agency's commitment to promoting civic values and national unity, the DG encouraged Nigerians at home and abroad to proudly reaffirm their allegiance to the country and work together to build "the Nigeria of our dreams."

Former Senate Leader: Nigeria’s 65 Years Have Been a Cocktail of Struggles and Progress

Ukorebi Esien | October 5, 2025

CALABAR -The former Leader of the 7th Senate of Nigeria, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, has described Nigeria's 65-year journey as a "cocktail of struggles and progress," saying it is a miracle that the country has remained united despite decades of political upheavals, coups, and economic turbulence.

Senator Ndoma-Egba stated this at the weekend when the executives of the Cross River State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by its Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Calabar. The high point of the visit was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Ndoma-Egba, who has been the longest-serving patron of the NUJ in the state, spanning over 40 years.

Expressing appreciation for the honour, the former Senate Leader commended the NUJ for its vibrancy and resilience over the years, saying his relationship with the union has been "a long and exciting journey."

"You might think that after 40 years, one should be bored, but with NUJ, you can't be bored because either there is a new idea or a new crisis. There is always something to keep you there," he said, thanking the journalists for their consistency and professionalism.

Turning his attention to Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary, Senator Ndoma-Egba reflected deeply on the nation's political history, likening the journey to a mix of trials, transitions, and triumphs.

"At 65, Nigeria has had a heavily packed experience a cocktail of events. I have seen colonial rule, the struggle for independence, the civil war, and several coups. We've gone from three regions to 36 states. It has been a lifetime of intense experiences that could cause mental stress for a person, yet we remain one people," he noted.

 

Describing the country's continued unity as a "major achievement," he emphasised that no serious-minded Nigerian is calling for the breakup of the country, despite its challenges.

"It's a miracle that we are still seen as a nation. In spite of our contradictions, we are still one. Forget the few miscreants who don't know what they are saying, there is no sane Nigerian today who truly wants the country to break up," he asserted.

The legal luminary and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, further compared Nigeria's endurance to that of a marriage, saying that what keeps a union or a nation together is commitment, not convenience.

"In every marriage, there are romantic, realistic, and bitter phases. But the marriage lasts because there's commitment. That is what is keeping Nigeria together, our collective commitment to remain one," he added.

Senator Ndoma-Egba urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and keep faith in the country's potential, stressing that nation-building is an endless journey, not a destination.

"Yes, we would have wished to be miles ahead of where we are, but so have all other countries. Nation-building is not an overnight affair. We just have to keep moving forward, in spite of ourselves," he advised.

Comrade Archibong Bassey, who led the NUJ delegation, praised Ndoma-Egba for his steadfast support for the journalism profession and his long-standing role as a mentor and patron, describing him as "a statesman whose contributions to governance and media development remain invaluable to Cross River State and Nigeria at large."

Celebrating Patriots in Their Lifetime Will Build a Greater Cross River – Otu

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State 

CALABAR — Governor Bassey Edet Otu has stressed the importance of honouring distinguished Cross Riverians while they are still alive, describing it as a cultural shift that will inspire greater patriotism and sacrifice for the state's progress.

The Governor gave the charge on Thursday, October 2, at the Destiny Cross River Awards 2025, where he was decorated with the Destiny Grand Commander Award, the highest honour of the evening, for what organisers described as his "uncommon leadership in rebuilding Cross River and restoring hope for a new generation."

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, Governor Otu said recognising eminent sons and daughters of the state during their lifetime would encourage others to give more of themselves in service to humanity and society.

"Too often, we wait until our heroes are gone before acknowledging their immense contributions. What you have done today is worthy of emulation because celebrating living patriots strengthens the culture of sacrifice and inspires many more to follow their example," he stated.

The Governor further urged Cross Riverians to embrace a culture of patriotism, sacrifice, and service, noting that the future of the state lies not in the politics of division but in a renewed covenant of collective responsibility. He commended the inclusivity of the awards, which reflected all three senatorial districts of the state and included gender sensitivity, describing it as "a true symbol of unity."

Otu also highlighted his administration's deliberate efforts to strengthen ties with security agencies, the judiciary, and paramilitary institutions as part of measures to restore public confidence and attract investments into the state. He pledged his continued commitment to rebuilding institutions, deepening governance, and empowering the people, adding that the award would spur him to do even more.

The Governor further assured of government's support for future editions of the Destiny Awards, describing the maiden edition as "historic, prophetic, and unifying."

Presenting the award, Archbishop Josef Bassey, Convener of the Destiny Cross River Awards, praised Otu's quiet but determined leadership, contrasting it with leaders who seek personal glory.

"Where others saw ruins, he saw opportunity. Where others sought monuments to themselves, he chose renewal for the state. He has quietly gone about repairing the broken walls, refusing to expose the mess of the past but instead courageously rebuilding for the future. That is why tonight, we bestow on him this award as an eternal witness to his legendary patriotism and prophetic submission of Cross River to God," the cleric declared.

Archbishop Bassey stressed that the Destiny Awards were not just another recognition exercise but a prophetic covenant to immortalise sacrifice and inspire a new culture of nation-building. He likened Otu to a "turnaround manager" who inherited ruins but has begun transforming them into progress.

According to him, the award was also a call to accountability: "When leaders do wrong, we must say so. But when they do right, we must also acknowledge it. This award is given because you are doing well, and we will continue to encourage you as long as you stay true to the path of renewal."

Other eminent Cross Riverians honoured at the event included Chief Anthony Ani (CON), former Minister of Finance; Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN, CON), former Attorney-General of the Federation; Prof. Kelvin Etta, renowned scholar and administrator; and Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, who made history as the first female recipient of the Destiny Matriarchal Defender Award.

Why Governor Otu called for an Emergency Exco Meeting

Emergency Exco: Governor Otu Approves N2.1bn for Education, Road Works at Bakassi Deep Seaport

Calabar, Nigeria – Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, presided over an emergency session of the State Executive Council (Exco) where far-reaching decisions on infrastructure and education were approved.

The 10th Exco meeting for the year, held at the Governor's Office Complex in Calabar, focused on urgent interventions, particularly the commencement of works at the Bakassi Deep Seaport site and the strengthening of the state's basic education system.

Top among the approvals was the emergency construction of a 1.7-kilometre access road and a one-hectare helipad at the Bakassi Deep Seaport location. The projects are expected to pave the way for the groundbreaking ceremony of the much-anticipated seaport, which Governor Otu has described as a "game changer" for Cross River's economy.

On education, the council approved the release of N2.1 billion for the printing of Training and Learning Materials (TLMs) under the Hope Programme, a World Bank-assisted initiative aimed at improving foundational literacy and numeracy for primary school pupils. The programme also includes the provision of teachers' guides and training for over 11,700 teachers across the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, explained that the intervention will not only strengthen learning outcomes in primary schools but also guarantee a reimbursement of more than N17.7 billion from the World Bank.

Earlier, Governor Otu welcomed the new Head of Service, Barr. Orok Okon, to his first Exco meeting in his new role, praising his experience and charging him to bring added value to the state's civil service.

The Governor, in his remarks, reiterated his administration's People First agenda, urging commissioners to remain closer to the grassroots so that citizens can fully understand and benefit from government policies and programmes.

Abi Council Chairman Hailed for Inspiring Youth-Centered Leadership

ITIGIDI, – The 65th Independence Day celebration in Abi Local Government Area turned into a platform for recognition of visionary leadership, as the Council Chairman, Obol Hon. Egbala Bassey, was celebrated for his commitment to empowering the younger generation.

Speaking during the celebration, the Special Assistant on Inter-Governmental Affairs, Amb. Samuel Ben, described Obol Bassey as a leader who has consistently aligned governance with the aspirations of youths in the area.

According to Amb. Ben, the council boss's policies and initiatives have created avenues for skills development, mentorship, and opportunities that raise the confidence of young people in their own future. "Independence is about freedom and self-reliance, and the chairman has translated this into action by raising independent stars among our youths," he said.

He further stressed that beyond youth development, the chairman has also strengthened ties with sister government agencies, ensuring the LGA benefits from intergovernmental collaborations.

The Independence Day celebration was marked by unity, patriotism, and a renewed sense of hope, with stakeholders and residents commending the council's effort in giving the day a meaningful touch.

Amb. Ben concluded that Obol Bassey's leadership represents the true essence of independence, hope, opportunity, and self-determination for all, especially the youth.