CRHA Speaker commends pace of work at WAATCTC

By Ofem, Jesam

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jones has commended on-going pace of work at the West African Advanced Teachers' Continuous Training College in Biase.

He made the affirmation while speaking to journalists during an inspection visit to the West African Advanced Teachers Continuous Training College in Biase currently under construction.

Speaking on the aim of the project, Eteng Jones said, "we need to train the teachers. It is the wisdom of the government to come up with this, to train the teachers in order to impact our students."

The Speaker further affirmed that the 9th legislative assembly under his leadership is ready to work for the people of Cross River State, saying "We will not end here, we are ready to work for Cross Riverians. Our method is different, we will be doing more of oversight."

Also lending his voice, the Member representing Biase State Constituency, Hon. Ogor Ogor expressed his satisfaction with the project stating that "Biase is a strategic place. Retraining the already trained teachers is what we need. It will attract human and economic traffic."

The West African Teachers Continuous Training College project was approved in the 2018 budget and is expected to be delivered by September 2019.

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CRHA Speaker commends pace of work at WAATCTC

By Ofem, Jesam

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jones has commended on-going pace of work at the West African Advanced Teachers' Continuous Training College in Biase.

He made the affirmation while speaking to journalists during an inspection visit to the West African Advanced Teachers Continuous Training College in Biase currently under construction.

Speaking on the aim of the project, Eteng Jones said, "we need to train the teachers. It is the wisdom of the government to come up with this, to train the teachers in order to impact our students."

The Speaker further affirmed that the 9th legislative assembly under his leadership is ready to work for the people of Cross River State, saying "We will not end here, we are ready to work for Cross Riverians. Our method is different, we will be doing more of oversight."

Also lending his voice, the Member representing Biase State Constituency, Hon. Ogor Ogor expressed his satisfaction with the project stating that "Biase is a strategic place. Retraining the already trained teachers is what we need. It will attract human and economic traffic."

The West African Teachers Continuous Training College project was approved in the 2018 budget and is expected to be delivered by September 2019.

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A NEW NIGERIA IS POSSIBLE

I had an interesting experience for the first time in my  over 26 years of applying or renewing my passports. This interesting scenerio was devoid of the constant  phenomena at some passport/immigration offices across the country.  

The Nigeria Immigration Service Passport control office in calabar  is obviously a beacon of hope for Nigeria.  

Yesterday, i was just thinking of how i will travel to Lagos  and go through the process of renewing my passport which is due for renewal in December and i have a visa appointment which requires 6 months validity.  

Then i remembered i had my passport in calabar and so asked my acting head of station if he knew anyone at the calabar NIS. 10 minutes he came back and said he had spoken to a contact and i should go there today by 9am and i asked how long will it take and he said same day .... may be 4 hours ..... i just looked at him and said JOKER and walked away. 

Behold true to his words i got to the passport office without mentioning who i was and met other applicants going through  a seamless and respectable process and guess what, in less than 45minutes i had my passport renewed and walked away without destroying cars like my UK brother. YES  45 MINUTES...... NO TOUTS , NO INTERMEDIARIES,  OPEN OFFICE,  COURTEOUS OFFICERS, OPEN DOOR POLICY, NO EXTRA BUT OFFICIAL RATE AND   ALL APPLICANTS TREATED EQUALLY.  

I also spoke to a few applicants and that was their testimony  and note the PCO didnt know who i was until i was almost through with the process when his officers all expressed surprised while capturing and saw my name ..... then they told the controller.  Looool 

He even confirmed that he has made it his watchword to apply EQUITY in how his men attend to applicants.  

I want to use this medium to THANK the PCO  Mr. Ita Nta, the 2iC Mr Ogundeji , the officer who attended to my renewal Mr Ekpenyong Akah. 

Kudos to NIS calabar.  I

This shows there is HOPE for NIGERIA.

Fidelis DUKER 

Calabar. June, 2019

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A NEW NIGERIA IS POSSIBLE

I had an interesting experience for the first time in my  over 26 years of applying or renewing my passports. This interesting scenerio was devoid of the constant  phenomena at some passport/immigration offices across the country.  

The Nigeria Immigration Service Passport control office in calabar  is obviously a beacon of hope for Nigeria.  

Yesterday, i was just thinking of how i will travel to Lagos  and go through the process of renewing my passport which is due for renewal in December and i have a visa appointment which requires 6 months validity.  

Then i remembered i had my passport in calabar and so asked my acting head of station if he knew anyone at the calabar NIS. 10 minutes he came back and said he had spoken to a contact and i should go there today by 9am and i asked how long will it take and he said same day .... may be 4 hours ..... i just looked at him and said JOKER and walked away. 

Behold true to his words i got to the passport office without mentioning who i was and met other applicants going through  a seamless and respectable process and guess what, in less than 45minutes i had my passport renewed and walked away without destroying cars like my UK brother. YES  45 MINUTES...... NO TOUTS , NO INTERMEDIARIES,  OPEN OFFICE,  COURTEOUS OFFICERS, OPEN DOOR POLICY, NO EXTRA BUT OFFICIAL RATE AND   ALL APPLICANTS TREATED EQUALLY.  

I also spoke to a few applicants and that was their testimony  and note the PCO didnt know who i was until i was almost through with the process when his officers all expressed surprised while capturing and saw my name ..... then they told the controller.  Looool 

He even confirmed that he has made it his watchword to apply EQUITY in how his men attend to applicants.  

I want to use this medium to THANK the PCO  Mr. Ita Nta, the 2iC Mr Ogundeji , the officer who attended to my renewal Mr Ekpenyong Akah. 

Kudos to NIS calabar.  I

This shows there is HOPE for NIGERIA.

Fidelis DUKER 

Calabar. June, 2019

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ASSEMBLY INVITES W/BOARD TO EXPLAIN WATER CRISIS ACROSS THE STATE

By Itam Offor

The Management team of the State water Board is to appear before the Assembly on Wednesday 3rd of July to offer public explanation on the water crisis currently experienced in Calabar metropolis in particular and the entire State in general.

The House took this resolution during plenary after Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong,  representing Boki ll, presented a matter of urgent public interest on the acute shortage of water supply in Calabar metropolis and other parts of the State.

Bisong noted that in recent times the State Water Board has not functioned maximally while private water companies have taken over water generation and distribution. He observed that the importance of water to human existence cannot be over emphasized.

The Legislature recalled the huge infrastructural investment of the State Government in the water sector and called on the Assembly to wade into the matter urgently.

In the subsequent debate, Members unanimously agreed that the shortage of water in the State is regrettable considering the overwhelming importance of water to human existence. 

Members recalled that Cross River State had previously ranked as one of the model States in terms of public water supply hence the present situation were private boreholes have become the main source of water supply across the State is unacceptable.  

In an analysis, the Members representing Bakassi, Dr. Ekpo Ekpo and Abi, Dr. Davies Etta both noted that the importance of water is multi faceted as many deaths are traceable to water borne disease. They further observed that, adequate sanitation cannot be achieved where there is scarcity of water while childhood mortality is associated with water and sanitation related disease.   

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Eteng Williams, commended Members for their contributions while pledging the Assembly's commitment to legislation which will help to improve the lives of Cross Riverians.

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ASSEMBLY INVITES W/BOARD TO EXPLAIN WATER CRISIS ACROSS THE STATE

By Itam Offor

The Management team of the State water Board is to appear before the Assembly on Wednesday 3rd of July to offer public explanation on the water crisis currently experienced in Calabar metropolis in particular and the entire State in general.

The House took this resolution during plenary after Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong,  representing Boki ll, presented a matter of urgent public interest on the acute shortage of water supply in Calabar metropolis and other parts of the State.

Bisong noted that in recent times the State Water Board has not functioned maximally while private water companies have taken over water generation and distribution. He observed that the importance of water to human existence cannot be over emphasized.

The Legislature recalled the huge infrastructural investment of the State Government in the water sector and called on the Assembly to wade into the matter urgently.

In the subsequent debate, Members unanimously agreed that the shortage of water in the State is regrettable considering the overwhelming importance of water to human existence. 

Members recalled that Cross River State had previously ranked as one of the model States in terms of public water supply hence the present situation were private boreholes have become the main source of water supply across the State is unacceptable.  

In an analysis, the Members representing Bakassi, Dr. Ekpo Ekpo and Abi, Dr. Davies Etta both noted that the importance of water is multi faceted as many deaths are traceable to water borne disease. They further observed that, adequate sanitation cannot be achieved where there is scarcity of water while childhood mortality is associated with water and sanitation related disease.   

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Eteng Williams, commended Members for their contributions while pledging the Assembly's commitment to legislation which will help to improve the lives of Cross Riverians.

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FORESTRY COMMISSION REVIEW DRAFT POLICY DOCUMENT

By Blessing Enagu

Informed by the urgent need for a Forest Policy - a guide for sustainable forest management in the State, Professional Staff of the Forestry Commission have reviewed draft of a proposed Forest Policy that will ensure sustainable increase in the economic, social and environmental benefits from forest for the present and future generations.

The review was carried out in the conference room of the Commission with staff making inputs targeted at addressing factors that affects the decline of forest resources, streamlining contribution of forests to economic development and growth as well as positioning the State to benefit from International Forest Policy initiatives.

Addressing Staff during the opening of a two-day review meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Comrade Akpeh Ogon charged them to take the exercise very seriously for the benefit of the State, today and tomorrow.

He stated emphatically that over the years, most of the challenges faced by the Commission and the Forestry sector have been as a result of non-functional policy driving the forest sector and stressed that the exercise was imperative in order to abate illegalities in the Sector.

Comrade Ogon opined that with a forest policy in place, the much needed revision of the existing Cross River State Forest Law 2010 to reflect the new policy, can be undertaken.

Also, the Secretary of the technical working group for the policy review, who is equally the State Focal Person, Sustainable Fuel Wood Management (SFM) Project, Dr. Edu Effiom , recounted that the development of the policy began with a zero draft  produced in 2014 by the State Forestry Commission board.

With support from UNDP, a ten-man Technical Working Group led by the Permanent Secretary, Forestry Commission was constituted in 2018 to review the zero draft which resulted in the first draft of the document.

 Dr. Effiom remarked that UNDP has supported the state in delivering a strategy to reduce emission from deforestation and forest degradation, partnered Global Environment Facility in the ongoing SFM project and is also supporting the finalization of the State Forest Policy, adding that inputs into the policy is been received from forest communities and retired foresters in the State.

After the internal review by the Commission Staff, a wider stakeholders' review and validation would take place before the document would be sent to the State House of Assembly for legal process.

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FORESTRY COMMISSION REVIEW DRAFT POLICY DOCUMENT

By Blessing Enagu

Informed by the urgent need for a Forest Policy - a guide for sustainable forest management in the State, Professional Staff of the Forestry Commission have reviewed draft of a proposed Forest Policy that will ensure sustainable increase in the economic, social and environmental benefits from forest for the present and future generations.

The review was carried out in the conference room of the Commission with staff making inputs targeted at addressing factors that affects the decline of forest resources, streamlining contribution of forests to economic development and growth as well as positioning the State to benefit from International Forest Policy initiatives.

Addressing Staff during the opening of a two-day review meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Comrade Akpeh Ogon charged them to take the exercise very seriously for the benefit of the State, today and tomorrow.

He stated emphatically that over the years, most of the challenges faced by the Commission and the Forestry sector have been as a result of non-functional policy driving the forest sector and stressed that the exercise was imperative in order to abate illegalities in the Sector.

Comrade Ogon opined that with a forest policy in place, the much needed revision of the existing Cross River State Forest Law 2010 to reflect the new policy, can be undertaken.

Also, the Secretary of the technical working group for the policy review, who is equally the State Focal Person, Sustainable Fuel Wood Management (SFM) Project, Dr. Edu Effiom , recounted that the development of the policy began with a zero draft  produced in 2014 by the State Forestry Commission board.

With support from UNDP, a ten-man Technical Working Group led by the Permanent Secretary, Forestry Commission was constituted in 2018 to review the zero draft which resulted in the first draft of the document.

 Dr. Effiom remarked that UNDP has supported the state in delivering a strategy to reduce emission from deforestation and forest degradation, partnered Global Environment Facility in the ongoing SFM project and is also supporting the finalization of the State Forest Policy, adding that inputs into the policy is been received from forest communities and retired foresters in the State.

After the internal review by the Commission Staff, a wider stakeholders' review and validation would take place before the document would be sent to the State House of Assembly for legal process.

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NDDC sseks partnership with Cross River on rice value chain

By Nakanda Iyadim 

Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Prof. Nelson Brambaifa has disclosed his agency's plans to partner Cross River State governor, Prof. Ben Ayade's rice revolution programme. 

Brambaifa disclosed this when he paid a courtesy call on the governor shortly after a tour of the Ayade Industrial Park which houses the rice seeds and seedlings factory in Calabar, yesterday.

Disclosing the object of his visit, the acting NDDC Chair stated: "Your Excellency, part of my mission to Cross River State is to work with your government to revive and strengthen existing partnership, as well as find new areas for collaboration. Of particular interest is agriculture and today, from what I have seen, we have chosen rice value chain which you have demonstrated tremendous capacity with modern equipment and a system of farming."

According to Brambaifa, "As your government has successfully demonstrated, agriculture remains a goldmine waiting to be fully tapped, away from oil and gas. indeed, no sector offers a greater opportunity for job and wealth creation, as well as overall improved living conditions than agriculture."

Brambaifa further stated that "Farming and fishing are the traditional livelihoods of our people and they offer us a more certain path to sustainable livelihood and in Cross River today, we have seen digital farming which is what informs our partnership with the state in this direction.

 "This is indeed a good thing I'm seeing in cross River today because if we have more of this, we will eradicate hunger amongst the ever increasing population of the country." 

 On his agency's intervention, the NDDC chairman said: "Let me assure that as an intervention agency, we want to seriously intervene in the area of hunger, ensure food security and generate employment for our people and we are starting with rice value chain. 

"Let me state here that while I am still chairman of the commission, our main focus will be poverty reduction and wealth creation and with what we have witnessed in Cross River, we are going back to our drawing board to see how we can partner with this hard working, digital governor," he said.

He reminded the governor that in 2005 the NDDC  and the state government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on poultry and hatchery joint venture which was designed to ensure availability of day-old chicks and healthy poultry products, as well as help generate employment and create wealth among youths and women in the state. 

Brambaifa further called on the governor to collaborate with them to revive the programme which he noted was in line with his economic development agenda, considering the prevailing economic circumstances.

The Acting MD particularly lauded Ayade for What he described as his critical role in the development of the region and promised to revisit as well as reactivate the Niger Delta Development Master plan with a view to rebuilding partnership for sustainable development forum, as a veritable vehicle for sustainable development of the region. 

Responding, Governor Ayade who described the appointment of Prof. Nelson Brambaifa as well deserved, appealed to Mr. President to consider the confirmation of his appointment, given his wealth of experience as a ranking and renowned professor of pharmacology in the country.

According to the governor, "Cross River State is starting with agro-industry in our industrialization effort because there is so much benefits in agricultural value."

While commending the regional body for the planned re-visitation of the Development Master Plan, Ayade urged them to ensure that the review reflects the current socio-economic realities that will ultimately ensure equitable distribution of the common wealth amongst the sisters states for even development and job creation."

He thanked NDDC  for the expression of interest  to partner the state in the area of rice value chain, poultry and other agro allied sectors, saying, "Your duty is to build a mental maturation of all the various complex we have in the Niger Delta and use the platform of the NDDC to bring us peace,  to create an economic prosperity and equilibrium that allows egalitarian distribution of income to guarantee us the desired peace."

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NDDC sseks partnership with Cross River on rice value chain

By Nakanda Iyadim 

Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Prof. Nelson Brambaifa has disclosed his agency's plans to partner Cross River State governor, Prof. Ben Ayade's rice revolution programme. 

Brambaifa disclosed this when he paid a courtesy call on the governor shortly after a tour of the Ayade Industrial Park which houses the rice seeds and seedlings factory in Calabar, yesterday.

Disclosing the object of his visit, the acting NDDC Chair stated: "Your Excellency, part of my mission to Cross River State is to work with your government to revive and strengthen existing partnership, as well as find new areas for collaboration. Of particular interest is agriculture and today, from what I have seen, we have chosen rice value chain which you have demonstrated tremendous capacity with modern equipment and a system of farming."

According to Brambaifa, "As your government has successfully demonstrated, agriculture remains a goldmine waiting to be fully tapped, away from oil and gas. indeed, no sector offers a greater opportunity for job and wealth creation, as well as overall improved living conditions than agriculture."

Brambaifa further stated that "Farming and fishing are the traditional livelihoods of our people and they offer us a more certain path to sustainable livelihood and in Cross River today, we have seen digital farming which is what informs our partnership with the state in this direction.

 "This is indeed a good thing I'm seeing in cross River today because if we have more of this, we will eradicate hunger amongst the ever increasing population of the country." 

 On his agency's intervention, the NDDC chairman said: "Let me assure that as an intervention agency, we want to seriously intervene in the area of hunger, ensure food security and generate employment for our people and we are starting with rice value chain. 

"Let me state here that while I am still chairman of the commission, our main focus will be poverty reduction and wealth creation and with what we have witnessed in Cross River, we are going back to our drawing board to see how we can partner with this hard working, digital governor," he said.

He reminded the governor that in 2005 the NDDC  and the state government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on poultry and hatchery joint venture which was designed to ensure availability of day-old chicks and healthy poultry products, as well as help generate employment and create wealth among youths and women in the state. 

Brambaifa further called on the governor to collaborate with them to revive the programme which he noted was in line with his economic development agenda, considering the prevailing economic circumstances.

The Acting MD particularly lauded Ayade for What he described as his critical role in the development of the region and promised to revisit as well as reactivate the Niger Delta Development Master plan with a view to rebuilding partnership for sustainable development forum, as a veritable vehicle for sustainable development of the region. 

Responding, Governor Ayade who described the appointment of Prof. Nelson Brambaifa as well deserved, appealed to Mr. President to consider the confirmation of his appointment, given his wealth of experience as a ranking and renowned professor of pharmacology in the country.

According to the governor, "Cross River State is starting with agro-industry in our industrialization effort because there is so much benefits in agricultural value."

While commending the regional body for the planned re-visitation of the Development Master Plan, Ayade urged them to ensure that the review reflects the current socio-economic realities that will ultimately ensure equitable distribution of the common wealth amongst the sisters states for even development and job creation."

He thanked NDDC  for the expression of interest  to partner the state in the area of rice value chain, poultry and other agro allied sectors, saying, "Your duty is to build a mental maturation of all the various complex we have in the Niger Delta and use the platform of the NDDC to bring us peace,  to create an economic prosperity and equilibrium that allows egalitarian distribution of income to guarantee us the desired peace."

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CRSHA SETS UP COMMITTEE TO INVESTIGATE DEATH OF HAWKER; By Itam Offor

       The State House of Assembly has set up a committee to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the death of one Mr Michael Eyo, a hawker who was allegedly murdered by officials of the Department of Public Transportation (DOPT) recently in Calabar.

       The House has also resolved to pay a condolence visit to the family of the deceased as well as appeal to traders in the State, especially in Watt market, to remain calm and allow the law to take its course.

       These were part of the resolutions taken after the presentation of a matter of Urgent Public Interest on the floor of the House by the Member representing Boki 2 state constituency, Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong who informed that the late Michael Eyo, a hawker with a pregnant wife and three children was allegedly killed by men of DOPT at Watt market in Calabar.

       Bisong, in an emotional voice emphasized that the role of Government is to protect the lives and property of citizens and uphold the sanctity of human lives, adding that, for a government agency to operate in such an uncultured and uncivilized manner, allegedly leading to the death of a citizen, was highly condemnable.

       Bisong recalled that the 8th Assembly had earlier passed the Hawkers Protection Bill, which approved designated areas for hawking, in recognition of the high rate of unemployment prevalent in the country, adding that, since the Government cannot provide jobs for all citizens, people have to make ends meet by engaging in legitimate trades instead of going into crime. He, however, informed that the Police had arrested two of the three culprits and called on the House to ensure that justice is served.

       Member representing Calabar South 1, the constituency of the deceased, Rt. Hon. Okon Ephraim, thanked Bisong for moving the motion. He condemned the activities of the DOPT officials whom he emphasized have abandoned their primary duties of traffic control and called for a review of their activities.

       Other Members in separate contributions also emphasized that Cross River as a tourist destination is widely acclaimed as a peaceful State, adding that, such incidences are inimical to the tourism drive of the Government.

       Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams while condemning the incident emphasized the need for both sides to be given a fair chance of hearing. He thereafter set up the Committee with Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, representing Bakassi as chairman, Rt. Hon. Nelson Ofem, Yakurr, Rt. Hon Itam Abang, Boki 1, Hon. Davies Etta, Abi, Hon. Chris Mbu-Ogar, Etung, Hon. Sunday Achunekang, Obanliku, and Hon. Edward Ajang, Bekwara, as members. The committee was given one week to report back to the House.

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CRSHA SETS UP COMMITTEE TO INVESTIGATE DEATH OF HAWKER; By Itam Offor

       The State House of Assembly has set up a committee to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the death of one Mr Michael Eyo, a hawker who was allegedly murdered by officials of the Department of Public Transportation (DOPT) recently in Calabar.

       The House has also resolved to pay a condolence visit to the family of the deceased as well as appeal to traders in the State, especially in Watt market, to remain calm and allow the law to take its course.

       These were part of the resolutions taken after the presentation of a matter of Urgent Public Interest on the floor of the House by the Member representing Boki 2 state constituency, Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong who informed that the late Michael Eyo, a hawker with a pregnant wife and three children was allegedly killed by men of DOPT at Watt market in Calabar.

       Bisong, in an emotional voice emphasized that the role of Government is to protect the lives and property of citizens and uphold the sanctity of human lives, adding that, for a government agency to operate in such an uncultured and uncivilized manner, allegedly leading to the death of a citizen, was highly condemnable.

       Bisong recalled that the 8th Assembly had earlier passed the Hawkers Protection Bill, which approved designated areas for hawking, in recognition of the high rate of unemployment prevalent in the country, adding that, since the Government cannot provide jobs for all citizens, people have to make ends meet by engaging in legitimate trades instead of going into crime. He, however, informed that the Police had arrested two of the three culprits and called on the House to ensure that justice is served.

       Member representing Calabar South 1, the constituency of the deceased, Rt. Hon. Okon Ephraim, thanked Bisong for moving the motion. He condemned the activities of the DOPT officials whom he emphasized have abandoned their primary duties of traffic control and called for a review of their activities.

       Other Members in separate contributions also emphasized that Cross River as a tourist destination is widely acclaimed as a peaceful State, adding that, such incidences are inimical to the tourism drive of the Government.

       Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams while condemning the incident emphasized the need for both sides to be given a fair chance of hearing. He thereafter set up the Committee with Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, representing Bakassi as chairman, Rt. Hon. Nelson Ofem, Yakurr, Rt. Hon Itam Abang, Boki 1, Hon. Davies Etta, Abi, Hon. Chris Mbu-Ogar, Etung, Hon. Sunday Achunekang, Obanliku, and Hon. Edward Ajang, Bekwara, as members. The committee was given one week to report back to the House.

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CALABAR-AKIN LIONS CLUB MARKS 10TH ANNIVERSARY, DONATES CASSAVA PROCESSING FACILITY TO COMMUNITY

The Calabar-Akin Lions family has recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with a massive donation of a complete set of cassava processing equipment to Etim Osam Community in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Presenting the machines to representatives of Etim Osam Community, on 23rd, June, 2019, at Lions Park, Marian, Calabar, the President of the Calabar-Akin Lions Club, Lion (Engr.) Joseph Abiodun, said the humanitarian gesture is in fulfillment of his administration's promise, upon inauguration a year ago, to donate such a plant to one of the Akin Communities.

Lion Abiodun further stated that apart from creating employment and generating revenue to the Community, the availability of the cassava processing facility will put an end to ordeals of residents of Etim Osam travelling to neighbouring communities in order to process their cassava into finished products, adding that the new development will greatly improve the quality of garri production in the Community and also impact on the living standards of the people.

The President charge the benefitting Community to make judicious use of the facility to the overall good of the Etim Osam people, in order to attract more of such gestures in the future.

He thanked the Ntoe of Akim Qua and his cabinet for providing a befitting place in the Community to house the equipment.

The over N500, 000.00 set of equipment, according to the President, consist of a stainless steel cassava grater with a petrol-powered engine; cassava de-watering press; stainless steel manual sifter; and communal tray fryer.

The President further enumerated the achievements in the year under review to include the 10th years milestone of the Calabar-Akin Lions Club; Membership growth of plus three; Youth empowerment, through skill acquisition and training; participation in Zonal, Regional, District and Multiple Districts activities; zero debts; dynamic youth wing (Calabar Akin Leo Club); and zero deaths.

He acknowledged God for the 10-years feat and the enabling grace to have been able to touch lives and achieved a lot in a space of one year. He also thanked the District Governor, Region and Zone Chairpersons, Board of Directors and the entire members of the Calabar-Akin Lions Family for their support, saying it was a rare privilege to have served them in such capacity.

Receiving the equipment, the representative of Etim Osam Community, Elder Eta Edim Ekong, thanked the Calabar-Akin Lions Club for such a life-enhancing gesture and promised to make good use of the facility for the betterment of the people.

In his message, the Governor of District 404 A2, Engr. Otoabasi Ansa, who was represented by Lion Obongawan Obo Mesembe, congratulated the Calabar-Akin Lions Club on its 10th anniversary, adding that in a decade, Calabar-Akin Club has stayed aground, broken through and created vistas of humanitarian service to the society.

He expressed delight in the Club's donation to the Etim Osam Community and urged the Club never to rest in its oars of impacting humanity positively, adding that it is through this mandate of service that the Lions Club has become the number one humanitarian body in the world.

Earlier that Sunday, a thanksgiving service was held at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Otu Ansa, Calabar, for a successful service year, led by Engr. Joseph Abiodun and to usher in new Executives for the Club.

The new Executives of the Calabar-Akin Club will be led by Lion Emana Otu, as President and Vera BAssey and Otu Richard as Vice President 1 and 2 respectively, while the Leos (youth wing) will be led by Leo Cyril Inyang as President and Leos Chris Ekpenyong and Bassey Inyang as Vice President 1 and 2 respectively.

 

Highpoints of the event featured cutting of the commemorative cake to mark the club's 10th anniversary, presentation of equipment to representatives of Etim Osam Community and admission of new members to the Calabar-Akin Club.

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CALABAR-AKIN LIONS CLUB MARKS 10TH ANNIVERSARY, DONATES CASSAVA PROCESSING FACILITY TO COMMUNITY

The Calabar-Akin Lions family has recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with a massive donation of a complete set of cassava processing equipment to Etim Osam Community in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Presenting the machines to representatives of Etim Osam Community, on 23rd, June, 2019, at Lions Park, Marian, Calabar, the President of the Calabar-Akin Lions Club, Lion (Engr.) Joseph Abiodun, said the humanitarian gesture is in fulfillment of his administration's promise, upon inauguration a year ago, to donate such a plant to one of the Akin Communities.

Lion Abiodun further stated that apart from creating employment and generating revenue to the Community, the availability of the cassava processing facility will put an end to ordeals of residents of Etim Osam travelling to neighbouring communities in order to process their cassava into finished products, adding that the new development will greatly improve the quality of garri production in the Community and also impact on the living standards of the people.

The President charge the benefitting Community to make judicious use of the facility to the overall good of the Etim Osam people, in order to attract more of such gestures in the future.

He thanked the Ntoe of Akim Qua and his cabinet for providing a befitting place in the Community to house the equipment.

The over N500, 000.00 set of equipment, according to the President, consist of a stainless steel cassava grater with a petrol-powered engine; cassava de-watering press; stainless steel manual sifter; and communal tray fryer.

The President further enumerated the achievements in the year under review to include the 10th years milestone of the Calabar-Akin Lions Club; Membership growth of plus three; Youth empowerment, through skill acquisition and training; participation in Zonal, Regional, District and Multiple Districts activities; zero debts; dynamic youth wing (Calabar Akin Leo Club); and zero deaths.

He acknowledged God for the 10-years feat and the enabling grace to have been able to touch lives and achieved a lot in a space of one year. He also thanked the District Governor, Region and Zone Chairpersons, Board of Directors and the entire members of the Calabar-Akin Lions Family for their support, saying it was a rare privilege to have served them in such capacity.

Receiving the equipment, the representative of Etim Osam Community, Elder Eta Edim Ekong, thanked the Calabar-Akin Lions Club for such a life-enhancing gesture and promised to make good use of the facility for the betterment of the people.

In his message, the Governor of District 404 A2, Engr. Otoabasi Ansa, who was represented by Lion Obongawan Obo Mesembe, congratulated the Calabar-Akin Lions Club on its 10th anniversary, adding that in a decade, Calabar-Akin Club has stayed aground, broken through and created vistas of humanitarian service to the society.

He expressed delight in the Club's donation to the Etim Osam Community and urged the Club never to rest in its oars of impacting humanity positively, adding that it is through this mandate of service that the Lions Club has become the number one humanitarian body in the world.

Earlier that Sunday, a thanksgiving service was held at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Otu Ansa, Calabar, for a successful service year, led by Engr. Joseph Abiodun and to usher in new Executives for the Club.

The new Executives of the Calabar-Akin Club will be led by Lion Emana Otu, as President and Vera BAssey and Otu Richard as Vice President 1 and 2 respectively, while the Leos (youth wing) will be led by Leo Cyril Inyang as President and Leos Chris Ekpenyong and Bassey Inyang as Vice President 1 and 2 respectively.

 

Highpoints of the event featured cutting of the commemorative cake to mark the club's 10th anniversary, presentation of equipment to representatives of Etim Osam Community and admission of new members to the Calabar-Akin Club.

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CROSS RIVER STATE DG'S REACTION ON THE POST-ELECTION POSITION OF SUPPORT GROUPS/DG'S IN THE STATE

It is no longer a thing of surprise that the importance of the Cross River State support groups and their D.G's is completely disparaged after every election wave, therefore making it save to conclude that both the D.G's and their support groups are instruments to a means.

In as much as I know, Even as a support group D.G that it is pertinent  to garner and mobilize support for a promising and prospective candidate as our Excellency, Sen. Prof. Ben. Ayade, its irrefutably and  uncontroversially incongruous, vexatious, fretting and overly bothersome that this disheartening act of complete sidelining of D.G's and support groups is imminent in our state's politics.

The subscribed paradigm of favouring the statesmen and their political godchildren at the expense of the support groups and their D.G's  in appointments, allocation of funds for specific purposes, and appreciation after election is a tetanic attitude that's doggedly eating up the will of the people  to participate in subsequent electoral processes, especially one that concerns candidates with such histories. 

Need I mention that the emergence of a candidate as winner of an election will be farcical without the inclusion of support groups in the process because even the local government is constituted of people from various support groups.

Elder statesmen I've realized are one of the greatest challenges of support groups' relevance in this state.

The very statesmen who are easily won over by opposing parties for want of personal interest, the very statesmen who embezzle the funds released for campaign,  thereby suffering and making futile the efforts of the footsoldiers (support groups) in their trickle and ridiculous supposed embossment, are the very set our Excellencies allot priority, neglecting the footsoldiers after the war.

Please, let's not loose sight of the fact that the casualties of every election are the members of some support group, who probably had their campaign materials, mobilization and demobilization sponsored by their sweats as our statesmen will always embezzle this funds and release trickles which can only do little or nothing, but will subject both the 

D.G's and their support groups to the most servitude of treatments.

REMEMBER:

- It's the support groups who suffer the bullets on the field

- It's the support groups who risk crossing the seas for to ensure a winning in their rural and riverine wards

- It's the support groups who resist the opponent thugs on the field, which most often leads to the loss of lives, yet they're the most ill treated after the elections, while the statesmen enjoy the victory.

This is the mournful voice of many D.G's and support groups who lost a member or had brutal injury cases in the course of election, this is the voice of many who dished from their little to support a just course, yet are inconsequentially etiolated, sent to limbo and completely left out.

His Excellency Sir, we all confidently recognize the versatile role the DG of all DGs Mr Lebo Lebo immensely played towards organizing the support groups, and on this note sir we are collectively making a plea through the office of the DG of all the support groups Mr Lebo Lebo for inclusiveness in some vital areas in your Government.

His Excellency sir, we know you're a just man of irrefragable repute, we followed your course because we believe in you and still stand on your industrialization envisage as most apt for a moribund state that's bereft of her littoral benefits, but sir, the place of statesmen strive to make null and void the consideration of support groups and their D.G's in appointments and direct/indirect inclusion in government is birthed of fear that their image of relevance might be compromised as they know that the support groups are almost always responsible for the victories they're lauded. 

His Excellency sir, on behalf of the support groups and the DG of DGs Mr Lebo Lebo, we all plead that your promise to D.G's and support groups be extended to these set; we believe in you sir, and we will all stand our grounds to sink or swim with your vision for our tomorrow.

Thank you your Excellency sir, for giving ears to the voice of reason.

From:

Comr. Eric Azogor

DG Cross River Visionary Youths

Supported by:

All the DGs/ support Groups in Cross River State

Read More

CROSS RIVER STATE DG'S REACTION ON THE POST-ELECTION POSITION OF SUPPORT GROUPS/DG'S IN THE STATE

It is no longer a thing of surprise that the importance of the Cross River State support groups and their D.G's is completely disparaged after every election wave, therefore making it save to conclude that both the D.G's and their support groups are instruments to a means.

In as much as I know, Even as a support group D.G that it is pertinent  to garner and mobilize support for a promising and prospective candidate as our Excellency, Sen. Prof. Ben. Ayade, its irrefutably and  uncontroversially incongruous, vexatious, fretting and overly bothersome that this disheartening act of complete sidelining of D.G's and support groups is imminent in our state's politics.

The subscribed paradigm of favouring the statesmen and their political godchildren at the expense of the support groups and their D.G's  in appointments, allocation of funds for specific purposes, and appreciation after election is a tetanic attitude that's doggedly eating up the will of the people  to participate in subsequent electoral processes, especially one that concerns candidates with such histories. 

Need I mention that the emergence of a candidate as winner of an election will be farcical without the inclusion of support groups in the process because even the local government is constituted of people from various support groups.

Elder statesmen I've realized are one of the greatest challenges of support groups' relevance in this state.

The very statesmen who are easily won over by opposing parties for want of personal interest, the very statesmen who embezzle the funds released for campaign,  thereby suffering and making futile the efforts of the footsoldiers (support groups) in their trickle and ridiculous supposed embossment, are the very set our Excellencies allot priority, neglecting the footsoldiers after the war.

Please, let's not loose sight of the fact that the casualties of every election are the members of some support group, who probably had their campaign materials, mobilization and demobilization sponsored by their sweats as our statesmen will always embezzle this funds and release trickles which can only do little or nothing, but will subject both the 

D.G's and their support groups to the most servitude of treatments.

REMEMBER:

- It's the support groups who suffer the bullets on the field

- It's the support groups who risk crossing the seas for to ensure a winning in their rural and riverine wards

- It's the support groups who resist the opponent thugs on the field, which most often leads to the loss of lives, yet they're the most ill treated after the elections, while the statesmen enjoy the victory.

This is the mournful voice of many D.G's and support groups who lost a member or had brutal injury cases in the course of election, this is the voice of many who dished from their little to support a just course, yet are inconsequentially etiolated, sent to limbo and completely left out.

His Excellency Sir, we all confidently recognize the versatile role the DG of all DGs Mr Lebo Lebo immensely played towards organizing the support groups, and on this note sir we are collectively making a plea through the office of the DG of all the support groups Mr Lebo Lebo for inclusiveness in some vital areas in your Government.

His Excellency sir, we know you're a just man of irrefragable repute, we followed your course because we believe in you and still stand on your industrialization envisage as most apt for a moribund state that's bereft of her littoral benefits, but sir, the place of statesmen strive to make null and void the consideration of support groups and their D.G's in appointments and direct/indirect inclusion in government is birthed of fear that their image of relevance might be compromised as they know that the support groups are almost always responsible for the victories they're lauded. 

His Excellency sir, on behalf of the support groups and the DG of DGs Mr Lebo Lebo, we all plead that your promise to D.G's and support groups be extended to these set; we believe in you sir, and we will all stand our grounds to sink or swim with your vision for our tomorrow.

Thank you your Excellency sir, for giving ears to the voice of reason.

From:

Comr. Eric Azogor

DG Cross River Visionary Youths

Supported by:

All the DGs/ support Groups in Cross River State

Read More

WORDL REFUGEE DAY: UNHCR COMMENDS C’RIVER GOV’T SUPPORT TOWARDS REFUGEES

By Kingsley Agim

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) has lauded the Ayade-led Government of Cross River State for its support towards ameliorating the plight of refugees in the State.

UNHCR's Senior Protection Officer, Ntampaka Clarisse, gave the commendation at the World Refugee Day, held 20th June, 2019, at the Conference Hall of Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

"We want to thank the Government of Cross River State for all the support. We also want to recognize and thank the host communities who opened their hearts and homes to the refugees. We want to thank the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for working with us, and the Federal Government's National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and our partners, UNICEF, Fhi 360, CUSO, Mediatrix Foundation, line ministries, etc, for the great work," Clarisse remarked.

The UNHCR Representative said the "World Refugee Day is a moment during the year to reflect on the fact that millions of families are living far from their homes, leaving everything behind- because of war or persecution."

Speaking further, Clarisse noted that Nigeria is presently hosting over 36, 000 Cameroonian refugees in Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River State and Taraba; meanwhile Cross River State alone hosts over 27,000 Cameroonian refugees, making it approximately 75 percent of the refugees in Nigeria.

The UNHCR Representative pointed out that local authorities and host communities in Cross River State have been exemplary in their support to refugees in their communities; and the World Refugee Day is an opportunity to appreciate the efforts of host communities and the Federal Government of Nigeria in welcoming and assisting Cameroonian refugees.

According to UNHCR, an estimated 70 million people are refugees, or have been displaced by violence in their own countries, and every region of the world is impacted in some way and today a volatile mix of political, environmental, economic, ethnic, and territorial factors often combine to ignite conflicts.

She said that though the UNHCR and it's partners are on  ground, helping to provide shelter, food, clean water, and medical care, yet it is the people in local communities who give so much - sometimes over many years, adding that such solidarity/hospitality is essential and does inspire the  conviction  that people can thrive together.

Talking on the theme for this year's World Refugee Day 'Step With Refugees', Clarisse stated that no step is too small, challenging people from all walks of life to unite in their efforts to choose inclusion over exclusion and see the need for integration of refugees as assets and not burden to the society.

She maintained that the spirit of participation and shared responsibility enshrined in the UN Global Compact on Refugees, marks a new era of international cooperation and provides a blueprint for better responses; not only humanitarian emergency responses, but also in terms of development to ensure longer term stability in all regions.

Concluding, on behalf of the High Commissioner, the UNHCR Representative stated: "we appreciate your contribution, collaboration and support in the response to the Cameroon refugee situation."

Also speaking, the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Mr. Innocent Efoghe, stated that recently, Nigeria has witnessed an influx of asylum seekers and refuges from countries such as Cameroon, Central African Republic, DR Congo, Syria, Turkey, Eritrea, among others.

He further revealed that over 35, 000 Cameroonian refugees have been granted Temporary Protection Status (TPS) in Nigeria, in addition to 261 urban refugees and 290 asylum seekers living in other parts of the country.

Mr. Efoghe noted that with the support of the Presidency, his Commission has succeeded in the distribution of various food, non-food items, educational packs, water sanitation, shelter materials, agricultural input, and medical care; trained and retrained refugees on various skills acquisition; improved accommodation and helped refugees settled with their host communities; fight for their rights to safety, dignity and long-term livelihood empowerment scheme; enrolled refugees into the National health Insurance Scheme; provided variety of life-saving assistace, safety and protection; and durable solution.

He assured that NCFRMI will continue to collaborate with UNHCR and other relevant agencies to ensure improved livelihood for refugees in Nigeria.

 

Each year on June 20, the United Nations, United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and countless civic groups around the world host Refugee Day events in order to draw the public's attention to the millions of refugees and internally displaced persons worldwide who have been forced to flee their homes due to war, conflict and persecution.

In his remarks, the Acting Director General of Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CRS-SEMA) Mr. Princewill Ayim called on well meaning Nigerians to take a step and eschew discrimination against refugees.

Mr. Ayim said the World Refugee Day "is to help us create awareness, to use this opportunity to encourage donors who are inspired to assist and support Government in making sure that the refugees are taken care of.

"We came out here to stand with the refugees to create awareness, we don't discriminate against refugees in Cross River State.

"As we mark today to show solidarity; to show what the refugees are suffering which symbolises the effort of their perseverance, we hereby solicit that the refugees abide by the law of the land and remain peaceful." he added.

The SEMA boss highlighted few challenges encountered by refugees which includes "identification, economic and security difficulties", but assured that those issues will be solved in due course.

Articulating her view, the Director of Orientation, Ministry of Information and Orientation, Mrs. Roseline Irek,  reiterated that the society will be a better place for everyone if discrimination against refugees is reduced to the barest minimum, adding that it is a collective responsibility by all and sundry.

High points of the event featured solidarity walk by stakeholders, and eventful ceremony at Channel View Hotel.

Read More

WORDL REFUGEE DAY: UNHCR COMMENDS C’RIVER GOV’T SUPPORT TOWARDS REFUGEES

By Kingsley Agim

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) has lauded the Ayade-led Government of Cross River State for its support towards ameliorating the plight of refugees in the State.

UNHCR's Senior Protection Officer, Ntampaka Clarisse, gave the commendation at the World Refugee Day, held 20th June, 2019, at the Conference Hall of Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

"We want to thank the Government of Cross River State for all the support. We also want to recognize and thank the host communities who opened their hearts and homes to the refugees. We want to thank the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for working with us, and the Federal Government's National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and our partners, UNICEF, Fhi 360, CUSO, Mediatrix Foundation, line ministries, etc, for the great work," Clarisse remarked.

The UNHCR Representative said the "World Refugee Day is a moment during the year to reflect on the fact that millions of families are living far from their homes, leaving everything behind- because of war or persecution."

Speaking further, Clarisse noted that Nigeria is presently hosting over 36, 000 Cameroonian refugees in Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River State and Taraba; meanwhile Cross River State alone hosts over 27,000 Cameroonian refugees, making it approximately 75 percent of the refugees in Nigeria.

The UNHCR Representative pointed out that local authorities and host communities in Cross River State have been exemplary in their support to refugees in their communities; and the World Refugee Day is an opportunity to appreciate the efforts of host communities and the Federal Government of Nigeria in welcoming and assisting Cameroonian refugees.

According to UNHCR, an estimated 70 million people are refugees, or have been displaced by violence in their own countries, and every region of the world is impacted in some way and today a volatile mix of political, environmental, economic, ethnic, and territorial factors often combine to ignite conflicts.

She said that though the UNHCR and it's partners are on  ground, helping to provide shelter, food, clean water, and medical care, yet it is the people in local communities who give so much - sometimes over many years, adding that such solidarity/hospitality is essential and does inspire the  conviction  that people can thrive together.

Talking on the theme for this year's World Refugee Day 'Step With Refugees', Clarisse stated that no step is too small, challenging people from all walks of life to unite in their efforts to choose inclusion over exclusion and see the need for integration of refugees as assets and not burden to the society.

She maintained that the spirit of participation and shared responsibility enshrined in the UN Global Compact on Refugees, marks a new era of international cooperation and provides a blueprint for better responses; not only humanitarian emergency responses, but also in terms of development to ensure longer term stability in all regions.

Concluding, on behalf of the High Commissioner, the UNHCR Representative stated: "we appreciate your contribution, collaboration and support in the response to the Cameroon refugee situation."

Also speaking, the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Mr. Innocent Efoghe, stated that recently, Nigeria has witnessed an influx of asylum seekers and refuges from countries such as Cameroon, Central African Republic, DR Congo, Syria, Turkey, Eritrea, among others.

He further revealed that over 35, 000 Cameroonian refugees have been granted Temporary Protection Status (TPS) in Nigeria, in addition to 261 urban refugees and 290 asylum seekers living in other parts of the country.

Mr. Efoghe noted that with the support of the Presidency, his Commission has succeeded in the distribution of various food, non-food items, educational packs, water sanitation, shelter materials, agricultural input, and medical care; trained and retrained refugees on various skills acquisition; improved accommodation and helped refugees settled with their host communities; fight for their rights to safety, dignity and long-term livelihood empowerment scheme; enrolled refugees into the National health Insurance Scheme; provided variety of life-saving assistace, safety and protection; and durable solution.

He assured that NCFRMI will continue to collaborate with UNHCR and other relevant agencies to ensure improved livelihood for refugees in Nigeria.

 

Each year on June 20, the United Nations, United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and countless civic groups around the world host Refugee Day events in order to draw the public's attention to the millions of refugees and internally displaced persons worldwide who have been forced to flee their homes due to war, conflict and persecution.

In his remarks, the Acting Director General of Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CRS-SEMA) Mr. Princewill Ayim called on well meaning Nigerians to take a step and eschew discrimination against refugees.

Mr. Ayim said the World Refugee Day "is to help us create awareness, to use this opportunity to encourage donors who are inspired to assist and support Government in making sure that the refugees are taken care of.

"We came out here to stand with the refugees to create awareness, we don't discriminate against refugees in Cross River State.

"As we mark today to show solidarity; to show what the refugees are suffering which symbolises the effort of their perseverance, we hereby solicit that the refugees abide by the law of the land and remain peaceful." he added.

The SEMA boss highlighted few challenges encountered by refugees which includes "identification, economic and security difficulties", but assured that those issues will be solved in due course.

Articulating her view, the Director of Orientation, Ministry of Information and Orientation, Mrs. Roseline Irek,  reiterated that the society will be a better place for everyone if discrimination against refugees is reduced to the barest minimum, adding that it is a collective responsibility by all and sundry.

High points of the event featured solidarity walk by stakeholders, and eventful ceremony at Channel View Hotel.

Read More

MOI&O TEAM VISITS PARASTATALS

By Kingsley Agim

The management team of the Ministry of Information and Orientation, on Friday, 21 June, 2019, visited some parastatals under its jurisdiction.

At Cross River Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC), which was the team's first point of call, the Permanent Secretary, Aye Henshaw – leader of the team – said the essence of the visit was to ensure that the leadership of the Corporation, headed by the Director of News, has taken charge and is up to task, in line with directive of the Governor.

The Permanent Secretary further stated that the visit was for the team to have a first-hand appraisal of challenges facing the Corporation.

Conducting the team round facilities at the Corporation, Director of News, Mr. Eniang Ndem, lamented the declining operations of the Corporation, describing the situation as a matter of concern to all stakeholders. He expressed delight in the timely visit by management of the Ministry, noting that the team's coming to the Corporation raises hope that things are going to change for the better and open a new page for CRBC.

He told the visiting team that management and staff of the Corporation are willing to put in their best in their work, saying the State Government's intervention will be a morale-booster for workers at the Corporation.

The team's next point of call was the Digital Printing Press at the Cross River Newspaper Corporation premises, Barracks Road, Calabar, where the Permanent Secretary stated that the State Government is determined to facility working, as a viable economic venture and to ensure the security of sensitive documents of government.

Head of the Printing Press, Comrade John Ushie, conducted the team round the facility, pointing out the to-dos necessary for the smooth take off of the digital printing press.

The Permanent Secretary was accompanied by Directors of the Ministry.

Read More

MOI&O TEAM VISITS PARASTATALS

By Kingsley Agim

The management team of the Ministry of Information and Orientation, on Friday, 21 June, 2019, visited some parastatals under its jurisdiction.

At Cross River Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC), which was the team's first point of call, the Permanent Secretary, Aye Henshaw – leader of the team – said the essence of the visit was to ensure that the leadership of the Corporation, headed by the Director of News, has taken charge and is up to task, in line with directive of the Governor.

The Permanent Secretary further stated that the visit was for the team to have a first-hand appraisal of challenges facing the Corporation.

Conducting the team round facilities at the Corporation, Director of News, Mr. Eniang Ndem, lamented the declining operations of the Corporation, describing the situation as a matter of concern to all stakeholders. He expressed delight in the timely visit by management of the Ministry, noting that the team's coming to the Corporation raises hope that things are going to change for the better and open a new page for CRBC.

He told the visiting team that management and staff of the Corporation are willing to put in their best in their work, saying the State Government's intervention will be a morale-booster for workers at the Corporation.

The team's next point of call was the Digital Printing Press at the Cross River Newspaper Corporation premises, Barracks Road, Calabar, where the Permanent Secretary stated that the State Government is determined to facility working, as a viable economic venture and to ensure the security of sensitive documents of government.

Head of the Printing Press, Comrade John Ushie, conducted the team round the facility, pointing out the to-dos necessary for the smooth take off of the digital printing press.

The Permanent Secretary was accompanied by Directors of the Ministry.

Read More

CALABAR AKIN LIONS CLUB HOLDS THANKSGIVING

BY BASSEY INYANG

The Calabar Akin Lions Club of the International Association of Lions Clubs, District 404A2, Nigeria, will on Sunday June 23, 2019 hold her Thanksgiving Service/In-House Handing-Over and Presentation of Cassava Processing Equipment to the people of Etim-Osam Community, Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Cross River State.

The President of Calabar Akin Lions Club, Lion Engr. Joseph Abiodun NLCF, had promised during his investiture in October 2018, that as the 10th President of Calabar Akin Lions Club, that one of the Akin Community will be a beneficiary of a Cassava Processing Facility.

Lion Engr. Abiodun pointed out that Calabar Akin Lions Club was Charter on April 28, 2009 and by April 28, 2019 the Club will be 10years. Adding that "it is a Double Honour for the Club as they will be celebrating her 10th Anniversary/Presentation of Cassava Processing Equipment to the people of Etim-Osam Community which is a Core Project of the Club for the 2018/2019 Service Year.

According to him, equipment that will be given out are; stainless steel cassava greater with petrol engine, watering press, stainless steel manual sifter, communal tray fryer, amongst others.

The Club President has invited all to join them in her Thanksgiving Service on Sunday June 23, 2019 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Otu Ansa Street by Immigration office, off IBB Way, Calabar by 9am.

Read More

CALABAR AKIN LIONS CLUB HOLDS THANKSGIVING

BY BASSEY INYANG

The Calabar Akin Lions Club of the International Association of Lions Clubs, District 404A2, Nigeria, will on Sunday June 23, 2019 hold her Thanksgiving Service/In-House Handing-Over and Presentation of Cassava Processing Equipment to the people of Etim-Osam Community, Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Cross River State.

The President of Calabar Akin Lions Club, Lion Engr. Joseph Abiodun NLCF, had promised during his investiture in October 2018, that as the 10th President of Calabar Akin Lions Club, that one of the Akin Community will be a beneficiary of a Cassava Processing Facility.

Lion Engr. Abiodun pointed out that Calabar Akin Lions Club was Charter on April 28, 2009 and by April 28, 2019 the Club will be 10years. Adding that "it is a Double Honour for the Club as they will be celebrating her 10th Anniversary/Presentation of Cassava Processing Equipment to the people of Etim-Osam Community which is a Core Project of the Club for the 2018/2019 Service Year.

According to him, equipment that will be given out are; stainless steel cassava greater with petrol engine, watering press, stainless steel manual sifter, communal tray fryer, amongst others.

The Club President has invited all to join them in her Thanksgiving Service on Sunday June 23, 2019 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Otu Ansa Street by Immigration office, off IBB Way, Calabar by 9am.

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ERIC AZOGOR's ASSERTION ON SEN. BEN AYEDE'S INDUSTRIALIZATION DRIVE AND COMMISSIONER PETER EGBA's CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS IT'S ACTUALIZATION

Mr Peter Egba as the Commissioner for  commerce and industry is the best appointee and a better choice HE Sen. Ben Ayade has made in his past appointments

To categorically explain the capacity and the quality of a Man Commissioner Peter Egba is, he is a socially acceptable leader with a large heart, embedded with much unique qualities to lead, a Man who is well trained in a proper way of managing funds mainly for a particular purpose. 

A banker by excellent who was promoted to Bank manager in a very reliable Bank, United Bank for Africa popularly known as UBA, he served the Banking industry very uniquely and from his incredible financial management the then Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke fine him worthy enough to work in a very important area in his administration as a member in the State economic planning commission, he was one of the brains behind the successful achievements Sen. Liyel Imoke recorded in our State Economy. Today Cross River State is quite blessed to have him with his wealth of experience and a high quality of integrity to deliver in all spheres, he is a unique leader with a heart of Gold, a God fearing Leader with a clean heart to serve this state even to elective position.

As a Commissioner for Commerce and industry he has discharged his duties excellently well with integrity by building  industries without extracting a dime from the cost of building this industries, even when money's are not approved he sacrifice a lot to making sure that the work on sites flows accordingly, what a loyal servant.

I strongly believe that with his undiluted attractive experience he deserve to be retain as the Commissioner for Commerce and industry to constantly discharge his duties accordingly because what makes  government look attractive and juicy is when such a government equipped itself with high quality of persons in a statutory areas like having Commissioner Peter Egba retained his status quo as the State Commissioner for Commerce and industry, that is a well deserved area because he has practically proven his worth.....

Long Live Cross River State our father's land

Long live the youth friendly Governor

Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade

Long live Chief Barr. Chris Agara

The Father of all

Long live Commissioner Peter Egba the Mr Integrity and the most sincere appointee

Your humble fellow

Eric Egbe Azogor

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