UNDIANDEYE CAUTIONS TIMBER DEALERS AGAINST ILLEGAL LOGGING IN C'RIVER

By Blessing Enagu, CRS-MOI Officer reporting from CRSFC

Timber dealers in the State have been warned against illegal logging which has caused serious  deforestation  despite ban on such activities in the State.

Cross River State Forestry Commission Chairman, Chief Tony Undiandeye, who gave the warning during a working visit to timber markets within Calabar Municipality, also sensitized them on the dangers of indescriminate forest exploitation, noting that it destroys trees that act as carbon sinks and climate regulators which play significant role in  Climate change mitigation.

The Chairman further stated that the practice also accounts for the reduction of forest cover area, leading to high temperature and extreme weather conditions which affect all and sundry.

Chief Undiandeye tasked the heads of the various markets to welcome and support government’s forest regeneration drive in order to regain the lost forests in the State.

Reacting to their concerns, the Chairman assured that the Commission is working assiduously to ensure that their livelihood is sustained and their businesses regularized to also enable them contribute to the economic development of the State.

The Commission Boss called on the timber dealers as critical partners in the sector to act responsibly by obeying government policy, stop patronising enemies of the State who are bent on destroying our rich forest resources.

Pledging the association’s continous support, the Presidents, Akim, Ikot Uduak, and Ikot Omin Timber Markets, Asuquo Ita, Ebane Ewot and Edet Bassey respectively, expressed appreciation to the Chairman for his leadership style, noting that his visit to their markets would not be taken for granted.

The Market heads separately dissociated the associations from being part of the illegal forest activities in the State, hinting that their businesses have been hijacked by heavily-sponsored field marshals and some government officials who are abusing power and taking advantage of the ban on logging to enrich their pockets at the expense of the Cross River Government.

They also argued that timber dealers are not  major drivers of deforestation but farmers who carry out unsustainable agricultural practices of cutting and burning down of the forest for cultivation.

Some members of the association lamented the loss of their livelihood and cried out to government to ameliorate their sufferings by lifting the ban in order for them to carry out their legitimate businesses responsibly.

The Forestry Commission Chairman was accompanied on the working visit by his Permanent Secretary, Mr. Timothy Akwaji and other management staff of the Commission. 

                     

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UNDIANDEYE CAUTIONS TIMBER DEALERS AGAINST ILLEGAL LOGGING IN C'RIVER

By Blessing Enagu, CRS-MOI Officer reporting from CRSFC

Timber dealers in the State have been warned against illegal logging which has caused serious  deforestation  despite ban on such activities in the State.

Cross River State Forestry Commission Chairman, Chief Tony Undiandeye, who gave the warning during a working visit to timber markets within Calabar Municipality, also sensitized them on the dangers of indescriminate forest exploitation, noting that it destroys trees that act as carbon sinks and climate regulators which play significant role in  Climate change mitigation.

The Chairman further stated that the practice also accounts for the reduction of forest cover area, leading to high temperature and extreme weather conditions which affect all and sundry.

Chief Undiandeye tasked the heads of the various markets to welcome and support government’s forest regeneration drive in order to regain the lost forests in the State.

Reacting to their concerns, the Chairman assured that the Commission is working assiduously to ensure that their livelihood is sustained and their businesses regularized to also enable them contribute to the economic development of the State.

The Commission Boss called on the timber dealers as critical partners in the sector to act responsibly by obeying government policy, stop patronising enemies of the State who are bent on destroying our rich forest resources.

Pledging the association’s continous support, the Presidents, Akim, Ikot Uduak, and Ikot Omin Timber Markets, Asuquo Ita, Ebane Ewot and Edet Bassey respectively, expressed appreciation to the Chairman for his leadership style, noting that his visit to their markets would not be taken for granted.

The Market heads separately dissociated the associations from being part of the illegal forest activities in the State, hinting that their businesses have been hijacked by heavily-sponsored field marshals and some government officials who are abusing power and taking advantage of the ban on logging to enrich their pockets at the expense of the Cross River Government.

They also argued that timber dealers are not  major drivers of deforestation but farmers who carry out unsustainable agricultural practices of cutting and burning down of the forest for cultivation.

Some members of the association lamented the loss of their livelihood and cried out to government to ameliorate their sufferings by lifting the ban in order for them to carry out their legitimate businesses responsibly.

The Forestry Commission Chairman was accompanied on the working visit by his Permanent Secretary, Mr. Timothy Akwaji and other management staff of the Commission. 

                     

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C' River State Govt Invites FMOH, NCDC as Stanbic IBTC donates 1056 PCR Test Kits

The Cross River State Government on Monday disclosed that His Excellency Sen Prof Ben Ayade has invited the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) and the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) to accredit the Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Infectious Disease Hospital in Calabar to consolidate the State effort in management of the Corona virus pandemic and also facilitate rapid testing to reduce the inconveniences experienced by the State when sending samples for testing which takes about  4-5 days for result to return amidst other expenses and delays.

This was made known by the Honorable Commissioner for Health and Chairman Cross River State Covid-19 Response and Taskforce, Dr Betta Edu accessing the Lab with the 1,056 PCR Extraction test kits donated to the State by Stanbic IBTC Bank. She said all necessary arrangements has been finalized and the State Government is expecting the arrival of FMOH/NCDC official before the week runs out.

Dr Edu noted that with the State having such number of PCR test kits with more to come  from NCDC which is expected to boast the efforts put forth by the Government in terms of testing, we can now run over a hundred tests within the shortest possible time and the stress of sending samples to Irua and other accredited laboratories will become a thing of the past. 

Cross River State is blessed with one of the best reference laboratory in Nigeria, the PCR and GeneXpert Machines in our laboratory that was used for TB and HIV are all very functional and with the latest configuration can conduct over 100 tests at the same time.

The Commissioner for Health on behalf of the Governor thanked the management of Stanbic IBTC for the support stating that it came at a time where the State is in dire need of PCR test kits. 

She went further to applaud Cross Riverians for remaining strong and supportive irrespective of the many challenges. She reiterated that  Cross Riverians should not panic but rather continue to observe all the laid down precautionary measures while supporting the efforts of Sen Prof Ben Ayade to keeping them safe.

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C' River State Govt Invites FMOH, NCDC as Stanbic IBTC donates 1056 PCR Test Kits

The Cross River State Government on Monday disclosed that His Excellency Sen Prof Ben Ayade has invited the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) and the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) to accredit the Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Infectious Disease Hospital in Calabar to consolidate the State effort in management of the Corona virus pandemic and also facilitate rapid testing to reduce the inconveniences experienced by the State when sending samples for testing which takes about  4-5 days for result to return amidst other expenses and delays.

This was made known by the Honorable Commissioner for Health and Chairman Cross River State Covid-19 Response and Taskforce, Dr Betta Edu accessing the Lab with the 1,056 PCR Extraction test kits donated to the State by Stanbic IBTC Bank. She said all necessary arrangements has been finalized and the State Government is expecting the arrival of FMOH/NCDC official before the week runs out.

Dr Edu noted that with the State having such number of PCR test kits with more to come  from NCDC which is expected to boast the efforts put forth by the Government in terms of testing, we can now run over a hundred tests within the shortest possible time and the stress of sending samples to Irua and other accredited laboratories will become a thing of the past. 

Cross River State is blessed with one of the best reference laboratory in Nigeria, the PCR and GeneXpert Machines in our laboratory that was used for TB and HIV are all very functional and with the latest configuration can conduct over 100 tests at the same time.

The Commissioner for Health on behalf of the Governor thanked the management of Stanbic IBTC for the support stating that it came at a time where the State is in dire need of PCR test kits. 

She went further to applaud Cross Riverians for remaining strong and supportive irrespective of the many challenges. She reiterated that  Cross Riverians should not panic but rather continue to observe all the laid down precautionary measures while supporting the efforts of Sen Prof Ben Ayade to keeping them safe.

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Taiwan donates Medical Equipment & PPE to Cross River State

Representative of Taiwan in Nigeria, H. E. Vincent Yang, on Sunday presented a consignment of medical supplies donated to the government of Cross River State to assist in the current efforts by the Governor Ben Ayade administration to ward-off the COVID-19 pandemic in the State.

The donation was received by the State’s Commissioner for Finance Mr. Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. on behalf of the government of Cross River State in a brief ceremony held at the grounds of Taipei Trade Office in Ikoyi-Lagos.

Representative Yang while handing over the consignment, emphasized that the donation was coming from Taiwan-Africa Business Association (TABA) that had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Cross River State government last November during the visit to the State by a 13 member TABA delegation from Taiwan.

Representative Yang stated that in keeping with the spirit and letters of the MOU, members of TABA decided to reach out to Cross River State by donating the medical supplies and PPE for the use of frontline workers in their efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. 

The Diplomat said that this first consignment will be followed soon by another set of donations of vital medical equipments from Taiwan.

Aside the current assistance to Cross River State, Taiwan has also donated medical PPE to the Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). 

It will be recalled that Governor Ben Ayade, while addressing the visiting TABA delegation that visited Cross River in November last year, urged them to take advantage of the Nigerian market, its new tax regime and available land to invest in the Industrial Park.

Ayade while lauding TABA, said Nigeria’s population of over 200 million provides a viable platform for investors. Ayade had further said “You are a major exporter and we have the market. You need our market; we need your technology.”

The chairman of TABA, Mr. Jeff Sun had assured Governor Ayade that TABA were open to partnership that would be of mutual benefit to the group and African collaborators. TABA has over one hundred members that remain ready to partner with Cross River State.

In his reaction, Cross River  State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr while appreciating the donation and the prospects of receiving more medical equipment in the future, reiterated the need for Taiwan to share its successful strategies in containing the pandemic.

It would be noted that Taiwan has only reported 447 confirmed COVID-19 cases, the number of confirmed cases per million people in Taiwan is 18.8, placing the nation at No.168 out of a total of 187 countries. There have been no new domestic cases in eight weeks & Taiwan has decided to ease domestic restrictions.

Taiwan’s success in fighting COVID-19 was due to its strict border controls, a similar strategy deployed by Cross River State. The nation did not issue stay-at-home orders or order general business shutdowns. Having recorded enviable success in containment of COVID-19 the Island nation has been reaching out to friendly countries to share its success and ideas in fighting the pandemic.

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Taiwan donates Medical Equipment & PPE to Cross River State

Representative of Taiwan in Nigeria, H. E. Vincent Yang, on Sunday presented a consignment of medical supplies donated to the government of Cross River State to assist in the current efforts by the Governor Ben Ayade administration to ward-off the COVID-19 pandemic in the State.

The donation was received by the State’s Commissioner for Finance Mr. Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. on behalf of the government of Cross River State in a brief ceremony held at the grounds of Taipei Trade Office in Ikoyi-Lagos.

Representative Yang while handing over the consignment, emphasized that the donation was coming from Taiwan-Africa Business Association (TABA) that had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Cross River State government last November during the visit to the State by a 13 member TABA delegation from Taiwan.

Representative Yang stated that in keeping with the spirit and letters of the MOU, members of TABA decided to reach out to Cross River State by donating the medical supplies and PPE for the use of frontline workers in their efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. 

The Diplomat said that this first consignment will be followed soon by another set of donations of vital medical equipments from Taiwan.

Aside the current assistance to Cross River State, Taiwan has also donated medical PPE to the Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). 

It will be recalled that Governor Ben Ayade, while addressing the visiting TABA delegation that visited Cross River in November last year, urged them to take advantage of the Nigerian market, its new tax regime and available land to invest in the Industrial Park.

Ayade while lauding TABA, said Nigeria’s population of over 200 million provides a viable platform for investors. Ayade had further said “You are a major exporter and we have the market. You need our market; we need your technology.”

The chairman of TABA, Mr. Jeff Sun had assured Governor Ayade that TABA were open to partnership that would be of mutual benefit to the group and African collaborators. TABA has over one hundred members that remain ready to partner with Cross River State.

In his reaction, Cross River  State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr while appreciating the donation and the prospects of receiving more medical equipment in the future, reiterated the need for Taiwan to share its successful strategies in containing the pandemic.

It would be noted that Taiwan has only reported 447 confirmed COVID-19 cases, the number of confirmed cases per million people in Taiwan is 18.8, placing the nation at No.168 out of a total of 187 countries. There have been no new domestic cases in eight weeks & Taiwan has decided to ease domestic restrictions.

Taiwan’s success in fighting COVID-19 was due to its strict border controls, a similar strategy deployed by Cross River State. The nation did not issue stay-at-home orders or order general business shutdowns. Having recorded enviable success in containment of COVID-19 the Island nation has been reaching out to friendly countries to share its success and ideas in fighting the pandemic.

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INEC REC seeks alliance with MOI to enhance voter education, electoral system

By Kingsley Agim, CRS-MOI Officer reporting from MOI&O

The Independent National Electoral Commission's Resident Electoral Commissioner, Cross River State, Dr. Emmanuel Alex Hart, has emphasised on the need for greater alliance between his Commission and the Ministry of Information and Orientation in order to enhance voter education and the entire electoral system in the State and beyond.

The new REC made this emphasis during his team's courtesy visit on the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Comrade Asu Okang at the Ministry's Headquarters in Calabar.

Dr. Hart, who described the Ministry of Information and Orientation as dependable ally of his Commission in the area of voter education, adding that in a peculiarly diverse State like Cross River, INEC will wholly rely on the Ministry for multilingual messages disseminated through its robust information and communication architecture for the development of the electoral system in the State, nay Nigeria. 

On the forthcoming Northern Senatorial District election, the REC assured Cross Riverians of his Commission's readiness to conduct a free, fair and credible poll, in line with international best practice.

The INEC REC informed that as the State awaits schedule for the vacant Cross River Northern Senatorial seat, he will be leading his team, sooner than later, on a tour of the District to familiarise, as well as further smoothen preparations ahead of the election.

Dr. Hart further assured the people of the State of a listening ear to their yearnings and aspirations, and convey same to superior authority for the overall weal of the State.

In his response, the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Comrade Asu Okang welcomed the REC to Cross River and wished him a memorable time as the electoral umpire of the State.

The Commissioner stated that the quest of the new REC to better the lots of electorates in the State would find a soft landing as he describes Cross Riverians a "civilised and politically conscious people," citing the just-concluded Local Government polls as "a glimmer of hope" for the REC and his team.

Comrade Okang attributed such civility and consciousness to to Governor Ben Ayade, who according to him, has redefined leadership, through expansion and youth inclusiveness in governance.

The Commissioner also beckoned on the Resident Commissioner to intervene in the delineation of political wards in Bakassi, in conformity with Law 7 of the State House of Assembly, as well as also revisit other inordinate ward delineation across the State, pointing anomalies in most cases, considering the topography and geography of the State.

Finding common ground on the conundrums, both parties agreed to come up with a memo highlighting concerns raised for proper followup.

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INEC REC seeks alliance with MOI to enhance voter education, electoral system

By Kingsley Agim, CRS-MOI Officer reporting from MOI&O

The Independent National Electoral Commission's Resident Electoral Commissioner, Cross River State, Dr. Emmanuel Alex Hart, has emphasised on the need for greater alliance between his Commission and the Ministry of Information and Orientation in order to enhance voter education and the entire electoral system in the State and beyond.

The new REC made this emphasis during his team's courtesy visit on the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Comrade Asu Okang at the Ministry's Headquarters in Calabar.

Dr. Hart, who described the Ministry of Information and Orientation as dependable ally of his Commission in the area of voter education, adding that in a peculiarly diverse State like Cross River, INEC will wholly rely on the Ministry for multilingual messages disseminated through its robust information and communication architecture for the development of the electoral system in the State, nay Nigeria. 

On the forthcoming Northern Senatorial District election, the REC assured Cross Riverians of his Commission's readiness to conduct a free, fair and credible poll, in line with international best practice.

The INEC REC informed that as the State awaits schedule for the vacant Cross River Northern Senatorial seat, he will be leading his team, sooner than later, on a tour of the District to familiarise, as well as further smoothen preparations ahead of the election.

Dr. Hart further assured the people of the State of a listening ear to their yearnings and aspirations, and convey same to superior authority for the overall weal of the State.

In his response, the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Comrade Asu Okang welcomed the REC to Cross River and wished him a memorable time as the electoral umpire of the State.

The Commissioner stated that the quest of the new REC to better the lots of electorates in the State would find a soft landing as he describes Cross Riverians a "civilised and politically conscious people," citing the just-concluded Local Government polls as "a glimmer of hope" for the REC and his team.

Comrade Okang attributed such civility and consciousness to to Governor Ben Ayade, who according to him, has redefined leadership, through expansion and youth inclusiveness in governance.

The Commissioner also beckoned on the Resident Commissioner to intervene in the delineation of political wards in Bakassi, in conformity with Law 7 of the State House of Assembly, as well as also revisit other inordinate ward delineation across the State, pointing anomalies in most cases, considering the topography and geography of the State.

Finding common ground on the conundrums, both parties agreed to come up with a memo highlighting concerns raised for proper followup.

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Illigal Extortion is Evil, Sinful and we cannot support it to continue---- Speaker CRSHA

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams, opined that the House of Assembly under his watch will give Anti-Tax agency the support it needs to succeed in its activities in the state.

 He added that the menace of illegal and multiple taxation in the state, needs to stop and extortion is evil, sinful and we cannot allow it to continue.

 “The Tax Exemption Law of 2015, which I sponsored exempted so many people and the amendment of the law to make sure everything is encompassed into one is in progress so as to strengthen the work of the agency”, he added.

Earlier The Chairman of the Agency, Bishop Emmah Isong, said they cannot succeed without the backing of the Assembly and stressed that the menace of illegal and multiple taxes is the bane of economic growth.

Isong said: “We cannot succeed without the makers of the law. The governor spoke in an executive fiat manner and we are working on the wings of that executive order. Without the necessary legislative backing, we can only bark but not bite.

 “You may carry police and chase people up and down but when it comes to the nitty-gritty of law, you will lack the ingredients to prosecute and execute the policies.

 “We bring our cry to you because the governor says he is exempting certain classes of people from taxation. So, we are here for you to help us generate necessary legislation to back up our activities and also give us legal legislative framework because it is not easy to fight a cartel.

 “I can tell you that people are making millions daily and billions monthly from the state.  These monies are not coming to the state’s treasury and emphasised that the Assembly should put an end to this bondage on the people of the state.

 

“People are leaving Cross River state every week because of multiple taxation. The taxation is not even the problem but multiple taxations from different people and companies. Many of them are not from cross river state. They come from outside, neighbouring states, take the contract and they are brutal on Cross Riverians, they beat up people, enslave them and put them in bondage”, he stated.

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Illigal Extortion is Evil, Sinful and we cannot support it to continue---- Speaker CRSHA

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams, opined that the House of Assembly under his watch will give Anti-Tax agency the support it needs to succeed in its activities in the state.

 He added that the menace of illegal and multiple taxation in the state, needs to stop and extortion is evil, sinful and we cannot allow it to continue.

 “The Tax Exemption Law of 2015, which I sponsored exempted so many people and the amendment of the law to make sure everything is encompassed into one is in progress so as to strengthen the work of the agency”, he added.

Earlier The Chairman of the Agency, Bishop Emmah Isong, said they cannot succeed without the backing of the Assembly and stressed that the menace of illegal and multiple taxes is the bane of economic growth.

Isong said: “We cannot succeed without the makers of the law. The governor spoke in an executive fiat manner and we are working on the wings of that executive order. Without the necessary legislative backing, we can only bark but not bite.

 “You may carry police and chase people up and down but when it comes to the nitty-gritty of law, you will lack the ingredients to prosecute and execute the policies.

 “We bring our cry to you because the governor says he is exempting certain classes of people from taxation. So, we are here for you to help us generate necessary legislation to back up our activities and also give us legal legislative framework because it is not easy to fight a cartel.

 “I can tell you that people are making millions daily and billions monthly from the state.  These monies are not coming to the state’s treasury and emphasised that the Assembly should put an end to this bondage on the people of the state.

 

“People are leaving Cross River state every week because of multiple taxation. The taxation is not even the problem but multiple taxations from different people and companies. Many of them are not from cross river state. They come from outside, neighbouring states, take the contract and they are brutal on Cross Riverians, they beat up people, enslave them and put them in bondage”, he stated.

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U.S Government Commissions Upgraded Cross River State Emergency Operation Center for COVID-19. Commends Cross River State.

United State Government on Tuesday through her Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard joined Executive Governor Benedict Ayade to virtually commission an upgraded Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for Cross River State, which has been equipped with support of the American people to track and control the spread of the deadly COVID-19.  Cross River is the first of nine states to receive the EOC upgrade. The commissioned EOC comes with a new call center. The EOC is coordinating the Statewide public health response to the COVID-19 outbreak and other diseases of public health concerns.

Commissioning the Centre virtually, United State Ambassador to Nigeria,  Mary Beth Leonard commended the state government on several measures been instituted to curtail the spread of the disease and protect the health of Cross Riverians. She said the upgraded centers are now equipped as operational digital situation and communication rooms that power and coordinate the state COVID response and other disease outbreaks, utilizing data integration, warehousing, and visualization to provide state officials transparent and real-time information on COVID-19.

“With the commissioning of these EOCs, Nigeria can better coordinate the COVID-19 outbreak response and surveillance activities, as well as any other emergent disease outbreaks or disasters,” Ambassador Leonard said.  “They will help turn the tide of the pandemic within their state, ultimately the nation, and flatten the COVID-19 curve.”

Speaking virtual from the Governor’s Office in Calabar, Cross River State Deputy Governor, Prof Ivara Ejemot Esu said “Though Cross River continues to have no documented cases, we need to be on our guard to do even more to ensure the COVID-19 pandemic is brought to a speedy end or controlled to the best of our ability in Nigeria.  “We want seize this opportunity to continually invite USAID to come to cross river and strengthen our health system.  We really appreciate this support”.

The DG NCDC Dr Chikwe Ihekwazu, thanked The US Government for the support and pledged continued support to Cross River state who he said must be at the drivers seat and take full responsibility for the health of its people. He commended the state and asked for sustainability of the Upgraded EOC.

Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu who was Physically at the EOC, thanked the US government for the support. She said the state is working closely with NCDC through the deployment of national Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to support response activities in the state. She said the EOC has a situation room and a call centre where staff are on 24 hours standby to receive calls from the public and track data/ information on COVID19. She thanked the US Government for their intervention stating that Cross River State will appreciate more support to strengthen the health system to address not just COVID-19 but any other outbreak in future.

She stated that the emergency operations center will serve as a central point of contact for public health activities and data collection including tracking of suspected cases in a consistent manner with up-to-date information shared among federal, state and local partners as well as with the public.

Dr. Douglas Chukwu, Cross River State team lead for USAID partner Jhpiego, conducted a virtual tour of the new Emergency Operations Center for U.S. Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard and Cross River Deputy Governor Ivara Esu, DG NCDC and the Commissioner for Health.

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U.S Government Commissions Upgraded Cross River State Emergency Operation Center for COVID-19. Commends Cross River State.

United State Government on Tuesday through her Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard joined Executive Governor Benedict Ayade to virtually commission an upgraded Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for Cross River State, which has been equipped with support of the American people to track and control the spread of the deadly COVID-19.  Cross River is the first of nine states to receive the EOC upgrade. The commissioned EOC comes with a new call center. The EOC is coordinating the Statewide public health response to the COVID-19 outbreak and other diseases of public health concerns.

Commissioning the Centre virtually, United State Ambassador to Nigeria,  Mary Beth Leonard commended the state government on several measures been instituted to curtail the spread of the disease and protect the health of Cross Riverians. She said the upgraded centers are now equipped as operational digital situation and communication rooms that power and coordinate the state COVID response and other disease outbreaks, utilizing data integration, warehousing, and visualization to provide state officials transparent and real-time information on COVID-19.

“With the commissioning of these EOCs, Nigeria can better coordinate the COVID-19 outbreak response and surveillance activities, as well as any other emergent disease outbreaks or disasters,” Ambassador Leonard said.  “They will help turn the tide of the pandemic within their state, ultimately the nation, and flatten the COVID-19 curve.”

Speaking virtual from the Governor’s Office in Calabar, Cross River State Deputy Governor, Prof Ivara Ejemot Esu said “Though Cross River continues to have no documented cases, we need to be on our guard to do even more to ensure the COVID-19 pandemic is brought to a speedy end or controlled to the best of our ability in Nigeria.  “We want seize this opportunity to continually invite USAID to come to cross river and strengthen our health system.  We really appreciate this support”.

The DG NCDC Dr Chikwe Ihekwazu, thanked The US Government for the support and pledged continued support to Cross River state who he said must be at the drivers seat and take full responsibility for the health of its people. He commended the state and asked for sustainability of the Upgraded EOC.

Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu who was Physically at the EOC, thanked the US government for the support. She said the state is working closely with NCDC through the deployment of national Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to support response activities in the state. She said the EOC has a situation room and a call centre where staff are on 24 hours standby to receive calls from the public and track data/ information on COVID19. She thanked the US Government for their intervention stating that Cross River State will appreciate more support to strengthen the health system to address not just COVID-19 but any other outbreak in future.

She stated that the emergency operations center will serve as a central point of contact for public health activities and data collection including tracking of suspected cases in a consistent manner with up-to-date information shared among federal, state and local partners as well as with the public.

Dr. Douglas Chukwu, Cross River State team lead for USAID partner Jhpiego, conducted a virtual tour of the new Emergency Operations Center for U.S. Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard and Cross River Deputy Governor Ivara Esu, DG NCDC and the Commissioner for Health.

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NYCN In Cross River : Time To Rebrand Or Disband--Inyali Peter

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) according to Wikipedia was established in 1964 and charged with the responsibility of  policy formulation and implementation on issues bordering on youth development in Nigeria. 

The Council which is the umbrella body and the mouthpiece of the Nigerian Youth was formally given legal recognition in 1990, many years after its formation.

The original idea of establishing a youth Organisation such as NYCN was to give the youths a platform to develop and prepare themselves for the task of contributing meaningfully towards the development of the nation.

As the slogan goes, "build the youths, build the nation", the organisation which is domiciled in the federal Ministry of Youths and Sports at the centre as well as the various federating units was supposed to serve as a bridge between the common Nigerian youth and the government. It was supposed to be a platform where youths meet, brainstorm and formulate policies that'll enhance development in the country.

The organisation started well but along the line, like many organisations and institutions in Nigeria became victim and breeder of the the epileptic leadership failure in the country. While the national body may be struggling to return it from its lost identify, most state chapters have regrettably shown no interest in this onerous task. 

Most state chapters after four solid years come back with absolutely nothing to show.  They perform so abysmally that the only thing they can be remembered for is how much they contributed to foster the destruction of their states in terms of compromising the security architecture by involving in cultism and other social vices, unhealthy enrichment, and in fact, all round failure. 

In Cross River State for instance, the situation appears worst and this calls for urgent concern because if nothing is done, the failure of the so-called leaders of tomorrow in the council will be institutionalized. 

Everything about the youth council in the state negate completely the purpose for which the organisation was established. In fact, the Cross River example is a complete replica on how not to run a youth council or any organisation.  Rather than serve as a platform that should encourage, empower, promote unity, interest and development of the average Cross River youth, it has become a cash-cow and conduit pipe for political jobbers and hucksters whose only interest is to use the organisation to quench their inordinate insatiable avidity for wealth.

This explains why year in, year out the organisation has shown a classical departure from it original mandate of supporting government to formulate and implement policies bordering on youth development in the state.

While majority of Cross River youths have expressed dissatisfaction with the way the organisation is going and have indicated strong commitment to return it to the original mandate, the hyenas and jackals who represent a few conservative reactionaries are raising their ugly heads again to continue to hold the great Cross River youths hostage with their greed and desperation for power. 

Great Cross River youths, should we continue to wallow in fears and allow people who don't have good and genuine intentions for the youth council and the youths to rule over us? Should we allow them to continue to seat on our common wealth at our own detriment? 

Are we going to continue to allow them revolve the youth council postions around themselves as a way of settling their cabal members rather than providing leadership? Are we going to allow them to continue to use the organisation as meal tickets for people without any known source of income that become millionaires overnight once given the mandate?  Should we continue to allow them eat fat into our future while majority of us wallow in pains and abject poverty? 

No. Enough is enough. 

We must all rise and be counted because we cannot allow our futures in the hands of people who don't mean well for us. This is not about government. It is not about political party. This not is about looking for who to blame on why things may not be working as we expected in the state. It's about standing up to be counted. It's about securing a better future for us and the unborn generation.

We've not forgotten so soon how some of the people who are today masquerading as Messiahs tried unsuccessfully to use the Nigeria Youth Congress, a non-recognised organisation to cause confusion and unhealthy tension in the state just to boast their tiny egos. Having failed to achieve their aim which was nothing other than selfish and greedy enrichment, they've returned to continue their destruction process in the council.

But we the concerned youths of Cross River must rise and say no to them. We're saying we have had enough and are ready to REBRAND. However, in a situation where rebranding is relegated to the abyss, the State Government through the Honourable Commissioner of Youth and Skills Acquisition, Hon. Omang Idiege should please, temporarily disband the youth council in the state to allow for a total overhaul and restructuring.  

This is necessary because with the current structure where jobbers hold sway, whree there's nothing to show that the council has contributed in any form towards the development of the youths and state at large, there's an urgent need for a new direction. These people shouldn't be allowed to continue wasting public funds for no meaningful ventures.

In all their reigns, where are the policies they have formulated in line with the mandate of the organisation? Where are the programmes to enhance youths development? What progress have they made? How have they affected the lives of the Cross River youth positively that we should allow them to continue to have their way? How have they used the council to initiate ideas that will better the lots of the average impoverished Cross River youth on the street? Their scorecard is an absolute ZERO! 

Are they even youths? If we trace their roots very well to their primary school, are we sure some of these people who are calling the shots in youth council are not more than the legal age to be part of the council and as such should be retired for the real youths to takeover? 

The state government is doing everything possible to fight cultism and other social vices but accusing fingers have constantly been pointed at some of these people yet since they're in power, nothing has been done.

 The way some of them have even gone about their activities in preparation for their planned (S)ELECTION, where any voice that doesn't agree with their fraudulent activities is threatened to be "dealt with" shows clearly that should they be allowed to continue to rule over others with clear conscience, they'll become emperors and will contribute to worsen the security situation in the state. 

To this end, let the State Government through the Ministry of Youths insist that any candidate aspiring to the office of State Chairman, Deputy, Secretary and in fact all offices should first come out and denounce cultism as well as show policy thrust on how they'll fight cultism if they assume office. 

They should also forward the original of their primary school certificates which the ministry must not accept in face value to clear the allegation that they've passed the legal age to be called youths. Also, all the certificates they lay claim to should be thoroughly investigated to be sure that we're not breeding certificates scammers in youth council.

On policy formation, they should come out with clear policies on how they hope to move the organisation and the state forward and show how they would do it.

If some of these measures are not put in place to flush out the "cabal" that feel they own the youth council in the state,  people with history of certificates fraud and all kinds of fraud, low integrity, suspected cultists with no clear educational background will continue to hold the council hostage at the detriment of the qualified majority.

Inyali, a Concerned Cross River Youth writes from Calabar.

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NYCN In Cross River : Time To Rebrand Or Disband--Inyali Peter

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) according to Wikipedia was established in 1964 and charged with the responsibility of  policy formulation and implementation on issues bordering on youth development in Nigeria. 

The Council which is the umbrella body and the mouthpiece of the Nigerian Youth was formally given legal recognition in 1990, many years after its formation.

The original idea of establishing a youth Organisation such as NYCN was to give the youths a platform to develop and prepare themselves for the task of contributing meaningfully towards the development of the nation.

As the slogan goes, "build the youths, build the nation", the organisation which is domiciled in the federal Ministry of Youths and Sports at the centre as well as the various federating units was supposed to serve as a bridge between the common Nigerian youth and the government. It was supposed to be a platform where youths meet, brainstorm and formulate policies that'll enhance development in the country.

The organisation started well but along the line, like many organisations and institutions in Nigeria became victim and breeder of the the epileptic leadership failure in the country. While the national body may be struggling to return it from its lost identify, most state chapters have regrettably shown no interest in this onerous task. 

Most state chapters after four solid years come back with absolutely nothing to show.  They perform so abysmally that the only thing they can be remembered for is how much they contributed to foster the destruction of their states in terms of compromising the security architecture by involving in cultism and other social vices, unhealthy enrichment, and in fact, all round failure. 

In Cross River State for instance, the situation appears worst and this calls for urgent concern because if nothing is done, the failure of the so-called leaders of tomorrow in the council will be institutionalized. 

Everything about the youth council in the state negate completely the purpose for which the organisation was established. In fact, the Cross River example is a complete replica on how not to run a youth council or any organisation.  Rather than serve as a platform that should encourage, empower, promote unity, interest and development of the average Cross River youth, it has become a cash-cow and conduit pipe for political jobbers and hucksters whose only interest is to use the organisation to quench their inordinate insatiable avidity for wealth.

This explains why year in, year out the organisation has shown a classical departure from it original mandate of supporting government to formulate and implement policies bordering on youth development in the state.

While majority of Cross River youths have expressed dissatisfaction with the way the organisation is going and have indicated strong commitment to return it to the original mandate, the hyenas and jackals who represent a few conservative reactionaries are raising their ugly heads again to continue to hold the great Cross River youths hostage with their greed and desperation for power. 

Great Cross River youths, should we continue to wallow in fears and allow people who don't have good and genuine intentions for the youth council and the youths to rule over us? Should we allow them to continue to seat on our common wealth at our own detriment? 

Are we going to continue to allow them revolve the youth council postions around themselves as a way of settling their cabal members rather than providing leadership? Are we going to allow them to continue to use the organisation as meal tickets for people without any known source of income that become millionaires overnight once given the mandate?  Should we continue to allow them eat fat into our future while majority of us wallow in pains and abject poverty? 

No. Enough is enough. 

We must all rise and be counted because we cannot allow our futures in the hands of people who don't mean well for us. This is not about government. It is not about political party. This not is about looking for who to blame on why things may not be working as we expected in the state. It's about standing up to be counted. It's about securing a better future for us and the unborn generation.

We've not forgotten so soon how some of the people who are today masquerading as Messiahs tried unsuccessfully to use the Nigeria Youth Congress, a non-recognised organisation to cause confusion and unhealthy tension in the state just to boast their tiny egos. Having failed to achieve their aim which was nothing other than selfish and greedy enrichment, they've returned to continue their destruction process in the council.

But we the concerned youths of Cross River must rise and say no to them. We're saying we have had enough and are ready to REBRAND. However, in a situation where rebranding is relegated to the abyss, the State Government through the Honourable Commissioner of Youth and Skills Acquisition, Hon. Omang Idiege should please, temporarily disband the youth council in the state to allow for a total overhaul and restructuring.  

This is necessary because with the current structure where jobbers hold sway, whree there's nothing to show that the council has contributed in any form towards the development of the youths and state at large, there's an urgent need for a new direction. These people shouldn't be allowed to continue wasting public funds for no meaningful ventures.

In all their reigns, where are the policies they have formulated in line with the mandate of the organisation? Where are the programmes to enhance youths development? What progress have they made? How have they affected the lives of the Cross River youth positively that we should allow them to continue to have their way? How have they used the council to initiate ideas that will better the lots of the average impoverished Cross River youth on the street? Their scorecard is an absolute ZERO! 

Are they even youths? If we trace their roots very well to their primary school, are we sure some of these people who are calling the shots in youth council are not more than the legal age to be part of the council and as such should be retired for the real youths to takeover? 

The state government is doing everything possible to fight cultism and other social vices but accusing fingers have constantly been pointed at some of these people yet since they're in power, nothing has been done.

 The way some of them have even gone about their activities in preparation for their planned (S)ELECTION, where any voice that doesn't agree with their fraudulent activities is threatened to be "dealt with" shows clearly that should they be allowed to continue to rule over others with clear conscience, they'll become emperors and will contribute to worsen the security situation in the state. 

To this end, let the State Government through the Ministry of Youths insist that any candidate aspiring to the office of State Chairman, Deputy, Secretary and in fact all offices should first come out and denounce cultism as well as show policy thrust on how they'll fight cultism if they assume office. 

They should also forward the original of their primary school certificates which the ministry must not accept in face value to clear the allegation that they've passed the legal age to be called youths. Also, all the certificates they lay claim to should be thoroughly investigated to be sure that we're not breeding certificates scammers in youth council.

On policy formation, they should come out with clear policies on how they hope to move the organisation and the state forward and show how they would do it.

If some of these measures are not put in place to flush out the "cabal" that feel they own the youth council in the state,  people with history of certificates fraud and all kinds of fraud, low integrity, suspected cultists with no clear educational background will continue to hold the council hostage at the detriment of the qualified majority.

Inyali, a Concerned Cross River Youth writes from Calabar.

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2020 Budget Amendment : Ekpenyong Jr Describes Ayade as a Leader who thinks outside the box

As Cross River State Government begins intense engagements for amendment of 2020 budget, State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong, has described the Governor as a Leader who thinks outside the box, for socio-economic wellbeing of the people and safety of the State.

Mr. Ekpenyong who made the assertion during the Citizen Budget  Forum that held recently in Calabar, noted that, at a time the world is gripped with fear of the Coronavirus pandemic exercebated with economic downturn and other social problems, the State Government is once again being proactive. 

"This time, the Governor has put modalities in place for the revision of the State's 2020 budget to catch up with the current economic realities, as the battle to contain the corovirus pandemic intensifies.

"To achieve success, the State Governor who is known for operating an all-inclusive government, has ensured the integration of all Ministries, Departments and Agencies MDAs into  the ongoing discussion on the budget amendment", the Commissioner disclosed.

He therefore, charged all MDAs to look into their core mandates in order to ascertain areas to focus on and possible budgetary amendment, as it relates to COVID-19 response.

"Having reviewed the current economic situation in the country, the State came to a firm conclusion on the need to amend the budget by engaging with relevant stakeholders and MDAs on the new economic realities that have become a great concern". Asuquo explained.

The Commissioner reiterated further that,  the State is anticipating that between 15%-25% of the 2020 amended budget would be dedicated to the COVID-19 response, such as, health sector expenditure, including production of the Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, as well as, scaling up of healthcare facilities, provision of adequate water supply, job creation and social welfare of citizens, through provisions of palliatives. In order to further stimulate the local economy, the State Government will be focusing on utilizing the services of local service providers, contractors, as well SMEs in the course of implementing the amended budget.

"To further re-start the economy, we are going to optimise the State's budget for investments in jobs and priority sectors through job creation, economic stabilisation and fiscal consolidation", he stressed further.

Asuquo posited that, while re-engineering the economy, the government is poised at preparing the State to operate and thrive within the new reality with digitalisation, business environment reforms, improved economy, diversification of revenue sources"

"This would mean, pruning the expenditures as well as specifically channeling expenditures into areas that will yield maximum economic returns” the Commissioner added.

He further butressed the point that, part of the State's holistic approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, is to engender food security, safety net mechanism and economic stimulus as well as ensuring public safety and well-being.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget, Rt. Hon. Abeng Moses Onoh, recalled that even before the outbreak, the outlook for the State's economy in particular, and especially, Nigeria and developing countries, was fragile, even as GDP growth was estimated to be only 2.5 per cent in 2020.

Onoh who noted that, though the State is yet to record any case of coronavirus, the weak capacity of health care systems across the country is likely to exacerbate the pandemic and it's attendant negative impact on the States' economies.

He revealed that, the proposed budget review is expected to be sent to the State's lawmakers very soon; thereby, calling on the people of the State to see the need to be part of the budgeting processes, so as to get the best out of it's implementation.

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2020 Budget Amendment : Ekpenyong Jr Describes Ayade as a Leader who thinks outside the box

As Cross River State Government begins intense engagements for amendment of 2020 budget, State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong, has described the Governor as a Leader who thinks outside the box, for socio-economic wellbeing of the people and safety of the State.

Mr. Ekpenyong who made the assertion during the Citizen Budget  Forum that held recently in Calabar, noted that, at a time the world is gripped with fear of the Coronavirus pandemic exercebated with economic downturn and other social problems, the State Government is once again being proactive. 

"This time, the Governor has put modalities in place for the revision of the State's 2020 budget to catch up with the current economic realities, as the battle to contain the corovirus pandemic intensifies.

"To achieve success, the State Governor who is known for operating an all-inclusive government, has ensured the integration of all Ministries, Departments and Agencies MDAs into  the ongoing discussion on the budget amendment", the Commissioner disclosed.

He therefore, charged all MDAs to look into their core mandates in order to ascertain areas to focus on and possible budgetary amendment, as it relates to COVID-19 response.

"Having reviewed the current economic situation in the country, the State came to a firm conclusion on the need to amend the budget by engaging with relevant stakeholders and MDAs on the new economic realities that have become a great concern". Asuquo explained.

The Commissioner reiterated further that,  the State is anticipating that between 15%-25% of the 2020 amended budget would be dedicated to the COVID-19 response, such as, health sector expenditure, including production of the Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, as well as, scaling up of healthcare facilities, provision of adequate water supply, job creation and social welfare of citizens, through provisions of palliatives. In order to further stimulate the local economy, the State Government will be focusing on utilizing the services of local service providers, contractors, as well SMEs in the course of implementing the amended budget.

"To further re-start the economy, we are going to optimise the State's budget for investments in jobs and priority sectors through job creation, economic stabilisation and fiscal consolidation", he stressed further.

Asuquo posited that, while re-engineering the economy, the government is poised at preparing the State to operate and thrive within the new reality with digitalisation, business environment reforms, improved economy, diversification of revenue sources"

"This would mean, pruning the expenditures as well as specifically channeling expenditures into areas that will yield maximum economic returns” the Commissioner added.

He further butressed the point that, part of the State's holistic approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, is to engender food security, safety net mechanism and economic stimulus as well as ensuring public safety and well-being.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget, Rt. Hon. Abeng Moses Onoh, recalled that even before the outbreak, the outlook for the State's economy in particular, and especially, Nigeria and developing countries, was fragile, even as GDP growth was estimated to be only 2.5 per cent in 2020.

Onoh who noted that, though the State is yet to record any case of coronavirus, the weak capacity of health care systems across the country is likely to exacerbate the pandemic and it's attendant negative impact on the States' economies.

He revealed that, the proposed budget review is expected to be sent to the State's lawmakers very soon; thereby, calling on the people of the State to see the need to be part of the budgeting processes, so as to get the best out of it's implementation.

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CROSSRIVERIANS HAVE MORE REASONS TO CELEBRATE DEMOCRACY DAY

By Florence Kekong CRS-MOI,

Reporting From Ministry of Finance (MOFI) NEWS

Cross River Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Asuquo Ekpenyong has said that, as Nigerians celebrate 21 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, the people of Cross River would always have much more to celebrate from pragmatic leadership.

In a message of felicitation with the Governor, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade, his Deputy, Prof. Ivara Esu and the good people of the State, the Commissioner noted the Governor's proactive instincts have continued to build the State's economy, even during the COVID-19 pandemic Lockdown that brought down economies in the world.

"We all know that from inception, when this deadly disease began to afflict the world, even before Nigeria recorded her first case, our Governor brought his rare intuitive leadership qualities and instincts to bear, when he immediately ordered for Mass production of face masks that were given out to the people, alongside other paliatives that came in form of other health intervention facilities, as well as basic food provisions, he said.

Mr. Ekpenyong called on all to support the good leadership of Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade.

"Today, other State Governors are taking a cue from Cross River State, emulating the dynamic leadership style of our Governor.”

"At a time when other States are battling with how to boost the economic status of their States, our amiable Governor in his doggedness, is setting the pace, paying salaries as at when due, engaging thousands of youths and the generality of the people in job creation that is continually boosting the State's economy, significantly". The commissioner, reiterated.

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CROSSRIVERIANS HAVE MORE REASONS TO CELEBRATE DEMOCRACY DAY

By Florence Kekong CRS-MOI,

Reporting From Ministry of Finance (MOFI) NEWS

Cross River Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Asuquo Ekpenyong has said that, as Nigerians celebrate 21 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, the people of Cross River would always have much more to celebrate from pragmatic leadership.

In a message of felicitation with the Governor, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade, his Deputy, Prof. Ivara Esu and the good people of the State, the Commissioner noted the Governor's proactive instincts have continued to build the State's economy, even during the COVID-19 pandemic Lockdown that brought down economies in the world.

"We all know that from inception, when this deadly disease began to afflict the world, even before Nigeria recorded her first case, our Governor brought his rare intuitive leadership qualities and instincts to bear, when he immediately ordered for Mass production of face masks that were given out to the people, alongside other paliatives that came in form of other health intervention facilities, as well as basic food provisions, he said.

Mr. Ekpenyong called on all to support the good leadership of Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade.

"Today, other State Governors are taking a cue from Cross River State, emulating the dynamic leadership style of our Governor.”

"At a time when other States are battling with how to boost the economic status of their States, our amiable Governor in his doggedness, is setting the pace, paying salaries as at when due, engaging thousands of youths and the generality of the people in job creation that is continually boosting the State's economy, significantly". The commissioner, reiterated.

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Democracy Day: Dr Betta Edu extolled Governor Ayade

Commends CRSHA for an exceptional legislative support!

Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu has sent a letter of congratulation to the exceptional Governor of Cross River State, Prof Ben Ayade as he marks his 5th Democracy day in office.

In a letter signed by the Honorable Commissioner in Calabar, the state capital on Friday she praised the Governor for giving the state what she described as "purposeful leadership in the past 5 years", adding that the government has provided dividends of democracy to the masses.

She urged Cross Riverians to use the occasion to pursue and promote issues that cement progress and development of the state without chaos and destructive politics. 

“Our democracy has grown by leaps and bounds in the past years, and Nigeria and Cross Riverians deserve a pat on the back.

“This occasion, therefore, calls for a re-dedication of ourselves to pursuing those ideals that promote love, togetherness and  national co- existence,’’ it said.

" Despite the outbreak of Covid-19 Pandemic globally,  the State under His Excellency, Senator Prof Ben Ayade has done extremely well to remedy his people from the economical effects associated with the pandemic through his massive job creation and industrialization drive in the state. Everyone in the health sector have worked hard following the directives of the Governor who based his response on prevention, leading to a situation where the state is yet to record a case.

The statement also commended the Speaker Cross River State house of assembly, Honorable members and Cross Riverians for their resilience and contributions to the sustenance of democracy in the 21 unbroken Democratic years.

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Democracy Day: Dr Betta Edu extolled Governor Ayade

Commends CRSHA for an exceptional legislative support!

Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu has sent a letter of congratulation to the exceptional Governor of Cross River State, Prof Ben Ayade as he marks his 5th Democracy day in office.

In a letter signed by the Honorable Commissioner in Calabar, the state capital on Friday she praised the Governor for giving the state what she described as "purposeful leadership in the past 5 years", adding that the government has provided dividends of democracy to the masses.

She urged Cross Riverians to use the occasion to pursue and promote issues that cement progress and development of the state without chaos and destructive politics. 

“Our democracy has grown by leaps and bounds in the past years, and Nigeria and Cross Riverians deserve a pat on the back.

“This occasion, therefore, calls for a re-dedication of ourselves to pursuing those ideals that promote love, togetherness and  national co- existence,’’ it said.

" Despite the outbreak of Covid-19 Pandemic globally,  the State under His Excellency, Senator Prof Ben Ayade has done extremely well to remedy his people from the economical effects associated with the pandemic through his massive job creation and industrialization drive in the state. Everyone in the health sector have worked hard following the directives of the Governor who based his response on prevention, leading to a situation where the state is yet to record a case.

The statement also commended the Speaker Cross River State house of assembly, Honorable members and Cross Riverians for their resilience and contributions to the sustenance of democracy in the 21 unbroken Democratic years.

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Lawmakers confirm nominees for CRS Privatization Council

 

By Itam Offor MOI Officer reporting from CRSHA

 The State Lawmakers on Thursday, confirmed four nominees to be appointed as Chairman and Members of the State Privatization Council.

 The confirmation was granted during Plenary after the House considered the report of it’s House Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution presented by it’s Chairman, Rt. Hon. Efa Esua representing Calabar Municipality.

According to Esua, the nominees who were duly screened have met all the necessary constitutional requirements for appointment into the State Privatization Council and should be  confirmed accordingly.

Members in separate remarks urged the nominees to ensure that they put in their best in the discharge of their duties.

On his part, the Speaker Rt Hon. Eteng Williams urged them to justify the confidence of the State Governor while threatening to withdraw their confirmation if found wanting in the course of performing their duties.

Those confirmed are; Monday John Odo- Chairman while Johnson Eyibio, Butum Ubi Ofum and Canice Atsu are to  serve as Members.

 You may recall that the House at it’s plenary session of Wednesday, 20th May 2020 received a correspondence from Governor Ben Ayade requesting the confirmation of the nominees.

 The correspondence which was conveyed vide reference No SSG|S|300|VOL|XIX|389 dated 14th May 2020 and signed by Barr. Tina Banku Agbor, Secretary to the State Government was formally adopted as a document of the House and after initial comments by members referred to the Committee for screening with a mandate to report back within two weeks.

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Lawmakers confirm nominees for CRS Privatization Council

 

By Itam Offor MOI Officer reporting from CRSHA

 The State Lawmakers on Thursday, confirmed four nominees to be appointed as Chairman and Members of the State Privatization Council.

 The confirmation was granted during Plenary after the House considered the report of it’s House Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution presented by it’s Chairman, Rt. Hon. Efa Esua representing Calabar Municipality.

According to Esua, the nominees who were duly screened have met all the necessary constitutional requirements for appointment into the State Privatization Council and should be  confirmed accordingly.

Members in separate remarks urged the nominees to ensure that they put in their best in the discharge of their duties.

On his part, the Speaker Rt Hon. Eteng Williams urged them to justify the confidence of the State Governor while threatening to withdraw their confirmation if found wanting in the course of performing their duties.

Those confirmed are; Monday John Odo- Chairman while Johnson Eyibio, Butum Ubi Ofum and Canice Atsu are to  serve as Members.

 You may recall that the House at it’s plenary session of Wednesday, 20th May 2020 received a correspondence from Governor Ben Ayade requesting the confirmation of the nominees.

 The correspondence which was conveyed vide reference No SSG|S|300|VOL|XIX|389 dated 14th May 2020 and signed by Barr. Tina Banku Agbor, Secretary to the State Government was formally adopted as a document of the House and after initial comments by members referred to the Committee for screening with a mandate to report back within two weeks.

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ONE YEAR IN OFFICE: Williams restates commitment to effective legislation in CR

BY Itam Offor.

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams has restated the 9th Assembly's commitment to performing it’s cardinal duty of effective law making as the Assembly marked it’s first year in office.

Williams, who was speaking at a special plenary session to mark the end of the first legislative year of the  9th Assembly, noted that the 9th Assembly has kept it’s promises and have performed it’s duties diligently for the peace, order and good governance of Cross River State.

According to him, the Assembly has recorded some  achievements including, the passage of 7 bills, taking of 17 motions, 8 matters of urgent public importance and 61 resolutions. Other achievements include; the improvement of Members’and Staff welfare, Infrastructural Upgrade, establishment of a website for the Assembly as well as signing into the law of the Assembly Service Commission Law 2020 by the State Governor Senator Ben Ayade.

He said”The Struggle to have the law in place started way back in 1999, all the previous Bills passed to achieve this objective did not see the light of day, surprisingly, His Excellency, the Governor handed us this precious gift when we least expected”.

Williams further noted that,”This is the strongest statement and action the Governor has made in support of the legislature and this House remains eternally grateful. Surely the Governor has left an indelible mark in the history of the legislature”.

The Speaker expressed appreciation to God for His guidance and to Governor Ben Ayade for his interest in  development of the legislature evidenced in the close synergy and cordial relationship both arms of government have enjoyed since the inuguaration of the 9th Assembly on 11th June 2019.

He also thanked Members for their support and cooperation, the People’s Democratic Party for providing them with the platform to serve as legislators and other stakeholders including the Staff of the Assembly and Members of the press.

He promised a more robust relationship with the Civil Society Organizations and Members of the Press whom he assured will be holding a monthly Press briefing to highlight activities of the House and give clarification where the need arises.

 At a Press Conference held after the plenary session, the Speaker lamented the high incidence of rape and other forms of Gender Based Violence and assured that the House is in the process of making stringent laws that will provide greater protection against Gender Based Violence.

 Also speaking at the Press Conference, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Joseph Bassey, stated that the legislature has enjoyed a cordial relationship with Executive due to the maturity of both parties adding that both have a way of resolving issues without resorting to conflicts.” Most times people expect the  Assembly to be fighting with the Executive arm of Government.  Fighting is not the best way of resolving issues.…we simply write to the Executive to resolve issues if there is any” he said.

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ONE YEAR IN OFFICE: Williams restates commitment to effective legislation in CR

BY Itam Offor.

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams has restated the 9th Assembly's commitment to performing it’s cardinal duty of effective law making as the Assembly marked it’s first year in office.

Williams, who was speaking at a special plenary session to mark the end of the first legislative year of the  9th Assembly, noted that the 9th Assembly has kept it’s promises and have performed it’s duties diligently for the peace, order and good governance of Cross River State.

According to him, the Assembly has recorded some  achievements including, the passage of 7 bills, taking of 17 motions, 8 matters of urgent public importance and 61 resolutions. Other achievements include; the improvement of Members’and Staff welfare, Infrastructural Upgrade, establishment of a website for the Assembly as well as signing into the law of the Assembly Service Commission Law 2020 by the State Governor Senator Ben Ayade.

He said”The Struggle to have the law in place started way back in 1999, all the previous Bills passed to achieve this objective did not see the light of day, surprisingly, His Excellency, the Governor handed us this precious gift when we least expected”.

Williams further noted that,”This is the strongest statement and action the Governor has made in support of the legislature and this House remains eternally grateful. Surely the Governor has left an indelible mark in the history of the legislature”.

The Speaker expressed appreciation to God for His guidance and to Governor Ben Ayade for his interest in  development of the legislature evidenced in the close synergy and cordial relationship both arms of government have enjoyed since the inuguaration of the 9th Assembly on 11th June 2019.

He also thanked Members for their support and cooperation, the People’s Democratic Party for providing them with the platform to serve as legislators and other stakeholders including the Staff of the Assembly and Members of the press.

He promised a more robust relationship with the Civil Society Organizations and Members of the Press whom he assured will be holding a monthly Press briefing to highlight activities of the House and give clarification where the need arises.

 At a Press Conference held after the plenary session, the Speaker lamented the high incidence of rape and other forms of Gender Based Violence and assured that the House is in the process of making stringent laws that will provide greater protection against Gender Based Violence.

 Also speaking at the Press Conference, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Joseph Bassey, stated that the legislature has enjoyed a cordial relationship with Executive due to the maturity of both parties adding that both have a way of resolving issues without resorting to conflicts.” Most times people expect the  Assembly to be fighting with the Executive arm of Government.  Fighting is not the best way of resolving issues.…we simply write to the Executive to resolve issues if there is any” he said.

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Democracy Day: Commissioner for Environment lauds Ayade's Industrial revolution in Cross River State

The Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Mr Mfon Bassey, has commended Gov. Ben Ayade's industrial revolution in the state as Nigeria celebrates the 2020 Democracy Day.

Bassey, in his goodwill message issued in Calabar, said that Ayade has expanded the frontiers of Agro revolution through the establishment of the rice seedlings factory, cocoa processing plant and many others across the 18 LGAs.

The Commissioner said that the industries established by the state Governor had engaged many youths in productive ventures to earn a living.

He specifically pointed out that the Garment factory established by the Governor had recorded tremendous success since inception. 

He explained that the Garment factory aside engaging over 1,000 workers who are mostly women, had also produced millions of face masks free for residents in the state to enhance the fight against Covid-19 pandemic.

The Commissioner said that the Cassava factory, the Noodles factory and Chicken processing factory were industries with great potentials and economic benefits to the state.

He said that recently, the governor has also unveiled the Persoal Protective Equipment( PPE) to be distributed free to students across the state as the government plans to reopen schools.

The Commissioner maintained that Gov. Ayade places premium on the clean and green status of the state, hence the ongoing environmental works across the state.

On governance, he commended Governor Ayade for the prompt payment of salaries and for engaging thousands of youths with political appointments to serve in his cabinet.

He said that the appointments have given the youths a sense of belonging and also brought them close to taking leadership positions.

The Commissioner also lauded the governor for the successful conduct of the recent local government elections which the People's Democratic Party(PDP) emerged winner in all the Councillorship and Chairmanship positions.

He called on residents in the state to continue to support and pray for the state Governor His Excellency Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade with a view to enable him deliver the dividends of democracy for the continous growth and development of the state.

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