Girl commits suicide over continuous fights with brother in Lagos

A 20-year-old girl identified as Sherifat Suleiman has reportedly committed suicide over incessant fights with her brother.


The incident occurred at about 4pm on Sunday July 12, in Isawo area of Ikorodu, Lagos state. It was gathered that the deceased who lived in a two-room apartment with her brother, was preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) before taking her life.


She reportedly began writhing in pain after ingesting a poisonous substance she bought. Neighbours who found her lying on the floor with whitish discharges from her mouth, said she died while being rushed to the hospital.


Vanguard reported that residents of the area said the girl decided to commit suicide when she could no longer withstand the physical and psychological assault by her brother she started living with after the death of their father. Upon examining her body, her neighbours noticed bruises on her legs and laps.


Her corpse was wrapped up by her step-brother who subsequently travelled down to their home town in Ijebu area of Ogun State, for her burial.

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Girl commits suicide over continuous fights with brother in Lagos

A 20-year-old girl identified as Sherifat Suleiman has reportedly committed suicide over incessant fights with her brother.


The incident occurred at about 4pm on Sunday July 12, in Isawo area of Ikorodu, Lagos state. It was gathered that the deceased who lived in a two-room apartment with her brother, was preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) before taking her life.


She reportedly began writhing in pain after ingesting a poisonous substance she bought. Neighbours who found her lying on the floor with whitish discharges from her mouth, said she died while being rushed to the hospital.


Vanguard reported that residents of the area said the girl decided to commit suicide when she could no longer withstand the physical and psychological assault by her brother she started living with after the death of their father. Upon examining her body, her neighbours noticed bruises on her legs and laps.


Her corpse was wrapped up by her step-brother who subsequently travelled down to their home town in Ijebu area of Ogun State, for her burial.

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Nigeria’s first female combat helicopter pilot dies at 23

Nigerian Air Force’s first female combat helicopter pilot, Tolulope Arotile, has died in a road accident.

It was learnt that Arotile sustained head injuries from the road accident which occurred at the NAF Base in Kaduna.

NAF in a press statement said the flight officer died on Tuesday.

The statement quoted the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, as describing her death as an “irreparable loss”.

Arotile, who hailed from Iffe in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, recently completed a programme at the Starlite International Training Academy, South Africa

She died less than a year after she was decorated as the first female combatant helicopter pilot.

The statement read, “It is with great sorrow that the Nigerian Air Force regretfully announces the unfortunate demise of Flying Officer Tolulope Arotile, who died today (Tuesday), 14 July 2020, as a result of head injuries sustained from a road traffic accident at NAF Base Kaduna.

Until her death, ‪Flying Officer Arotile, who was commissioned into the NAF in September 2017 as a member of Nigerian Defence Academy Regular Course 64, was the first-ever female combat helicopter pilot in the Service.‬

“During her short but impactful stay in the Service, the late Arotile contributed significantly to the efforts to rid the North Central States of armed bandits and other criminal elements by flying several combat missions under Operation GAMA AIKI in Minna, Niger State.

We pray that the Almighty God grants her soul eternal rest.”

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Nigeria’s first female combat helicopter pilot dies at 23

Nigerian Air Force’s first female combat helicopter pilot, Tolulope Arotile, has died in a road accident.

It was learnt that Arotile sustained head injuries from the road accident which occurred at the NAF Base in Kaduna.

NAF in a press statement said the flight officer died on Tuesday.

The statement quoted the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, as describing her death as an “irreparable loss”.

Arotile, who hailed from Iffe in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, recently completed a programme at the Starlite International Training Academy, South Africa

She died less than a year after she was decorated as the first female combatant helicopter pilot.

The statement read, “It is with great sorrow that the Nigerian Air Force regretfully announces the unfortunate demise of Flying Officer Tolulope Arotile, who died today (Tuesday), 14 July 2020, as a result of head injuries sustained from a road traffic accident at NAF Base Kaduna.

Until her death, ‪Flying Officer Arotile, who was commissioned into the NAF in September 2017 as a member of Nigerian Defence Academy Regular Course 64, was the first-ever female combat helicopter pilot in the Service.‬

“During her short but impactful stay in the Service, the late Arotile contributed significantly to the efforts to rid the North Central States of armed bandits and other criminal elements by flying several combat missions under Operation GAMA AIKI in Minna, Niger State.

We pray that the Almighty God grants her soul eternal rest.”

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Ayade promises early completion of Obudu Airport

Construction of the Obudu International Airport in Cross River state has received further impetus as the five host communities where the project is sited have declared their absolute support for the project.

This is even as Governor Ben Ayade disclosed that the Airport, when completed, will boost the state's economy through export of ornamental flowers and other resources found in abundance in Northern Cross River.

The communities; Atiekpe, Ikwuomkwu, Igwo, Okamibi and Abonkib made the declaration Monday in their separate presentations during an interactive session with the governor at the project site.

The five communities disclosed that in view of the enormous economic spinoffs that will be derived from the construction of the airport, they freely donated their land to the state government.

Most of the youths that turned out for the meeting displayed several placards with messages of support for the governor and the projects.

"We are extremely proud that Igwo is one of the communities that donated land for this project. We are happy that in our life time, Igwo will be hosting an airport. This airport will bring jobs and development to our people. We are grateful to His Excellency," a representative of the Igwo community said in his presentation.

On his part, the  Councilor for Obudu Urban Ward 2, Honorable Emmanuel Akomaye stated  that contrary to insinuations, the land was not acquired by government, but was freely given.

"Nobody forced us to give up our land. Our land was not acquired by government for this airport project, it was freely given," Akomaye said.

On his part, the Clan Head of Abonkib in Obudu Urban 1, His Royal Highness, Augustine Ikashi, said the people were fully behind airport project.

The royal father said the project when completed will bring development to the area.

"It is not because the governor is our own son, but because we need development, because we love progress, therefore, we are fully behind the airport project. We believe it will bring development to the entire community.

"I think the project is the only good thing that has happened to Obudu and Cross River State. So if we have this International airport, Obudu is going to be on the world's map."

Responding Governor Ayade disclosed that the state government has so far paid N500 million as compensation to the communities that donated their land for the project.

He expressed optimism that in no distant future, the airport will be completed and operational as the federal government has already given the necessary approvals.

His words: "We are right here at the site of an international cargo airport in Obudu, Cross River State. The intention of this airport is to provide cargo support services  and export of ornamental and special flowers from the Obudu Cattle Ranch. As you are well aware, a country like Kenya does average of 39 million Euros annually exporting flower from an altitude even less than that of Obudu cattle ranch.

"So for Cross River State, we need to have an airport here to be able to assist us take advantage of the Obudu cattle ranch. More so Obudu Cattle Ranch is a beautiful place of nature which has been heavily under utilised because of access. So we are building an airport that can allow us benefit from the full potentials of the ranch."

Continuing, Ayade stated that the airport will also help create access to the rich agricultural potentials of Northern Cross River to the world.

"We have very very essential elements to find which is the agricultural heritage of Cross River State and with all the precious stones available to us, the cargo airport will be very critical"

On the land donated by the Obudu communities for the project, the governor said: “N500 million has been paid and the work is going on. And as you can see the communities are celebrating, they are excited that I have come here in person to speak to them and hear their concerns with a view to addressing them.

"Every single contributing village here today is excited about the potential of this airport. And we have also received the approval from the Federal Ministry of Aviation already. We have all the necessary approvals and construction work is on going. We are working very hard to see that this airport is ready by the close of this year.”

Earlier, the Cross River state Commissioner for Aviation, Dr Jacob Otu Enyia disclosed that the airport runway will be the longest in the country at 5.6km.


"We have also been able to remove the top soil and the next phase will see us go into filling to attain the required level as requested by the consultant," the Commissioner quipped.

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Ayade promises early completion of Obudu Airport

Construction of the Obudu International Airport in Cross River state has received further impetus as the five host communities where the project is sited have declared their absolute support for the project.

This is even as Governor Ben Ayade disclosed that the Airport, when completed, will boost the state's economy through export of ornamental flowers and other resources found in abundance in Northern Cross River.

The communities; Atiekpe, Ikwuomkwu, Igwo, Okamibi and Abonkib made the declaration Monday in their separate presentations during an interactive session with the governor at the project site.

The five communities disclosed that in view of the enormous economic spinoffs that will be derived from the construction of the airport, they freely donated their land to the state government.

Most of the youths that turned out for the meeting displayed several placards with messages of support for the governor and the projects.

"We are extremely proud that Igwo is one of the communities that donated land for this project. We are happy that in our life time, Igwo will be hosting an airport. This airport will bring jobs and development to our people. We are grateful to His Excellency," a representative of the Igwo community said in his presentation.

On his part, the  Councilor for Obudu Urban Ward 2, Honorable Emmanuel Akomaye stated  that contrary to insinuations, the land was not acquired by government, but was freely given.

"Nobody forced us to give up our land. Our land was not acquired by government for this airport project, it was freely given," Akomaye said.

On his part, the Clan Head of Abonkib in Obudu Urban 1, His Royal Highness, Augustine Ikashi, said the people were fully behind airport project.

The royal father said the project when completed will bring development to the area.

"It is not because the governor is our own son, but because we need development, because we love progress, therefore, we are fully behind the airport project. We believe it will bring development to the entire community.

"I think the project is the only good thing that has happened to Obudu and Cross River State. So if we have this International airport, Obudu is going to be on the world's map."

Responding Governor Ayade disclosed that the state government has so far paid N500 million as compensation to the communities that donated their land for the project.

He expressed optimism that in no distant future, the airport will be completed and operational as the federal government has already given the necessary approvals.

His words: "We are right here at the site of an international cargo airport in Obudu, Cross River State. The intention of this airport is to provide cargo support services  and export of ornamental and special flowers from the Obudu Cattle Ranch. As you are well aware, a country like Kenya does average of 39 million Euros annually exporting flower from an altitude even less than that of Obudu cattle ranch.

"So for Cross River State, we need to have an airport here to be able to assist us take advantage of the Obudu cattle ranch. More so Obudu Cattle Ranch is a beautiful place of nature which has been heavily under utilised because of access. So we are building an airport that can allow us benefit from the full potentials of the ranch."

Continuing, Ayade stated that the airport will also help create access to the rich agricultural potentials of Northern Cross River to the world.

"We have very very essential elements to find which is the agricultural heritage of Cross River State and with all the precious stones available to us, the cargo airport will be very critical"

On the land donated by the Obudu communities for the project, the governor said: “N500 million has been paid and the work is going on. And as you can see the communities are celebrating, they are excited that I have come here in person to speak to them and hear their concerns with a view to addressing them.

"Every single contributing village here today is excited about the potential of this airport. And we have also received the approval from the Federal Ministry of Aviation already. We have all the necessary approvals and construction work is on going. We are working very hard to see that this airport is ready by the close of this year.”

Earlier, the Cross River state Commissioner for Aviation, Dr Jacob Otu Enyia disclosed that the airport runway will be the longest in the country at 5.6km.


"We have also been able to remove the top soil and the next phase will see us go into filling to attain the required level as requested by the consultant," the Commissioner quipped.

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former school of nursing & midwifery graduates to now go for NYSC

“We are proud of the achievements of our daughter Dr Betta Edu, we will support the new college”- Chairman Of Abi LGA."

World Health Organization has supported the CRS College of Nursing and midwifery Itigidi with administrative materials that are very essential for the accreditation process of the school. Presenting the items, the health systems technical officer of WHO Dr Daniel Salihu expressed that the items donated by the WHO's Country Director Dr Walter Mulombo Kazadi is to contribute to the kick off of the College and thanked the Cross River State Government as well as the Honorable Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu  for the proactive step the state has taken to get this far in establishing the college within the last 6 months while creating an enabling environment for partners to support.

Receiving the items on behalf of the State, the Health Commissioner Dr Betta Edu thanked WHO for a powerful support to capacity building in the Health Sector, she praised them for their excellent support to the schools as she believes that the said items will help strengthen the new college in its take off process.

"The administration of Sen Prof Ben Ayade and the entire CRSMOH is very grateful to WHO for this magnificent support as these items are the basics for the College which has kick started. The good news is that our amiable Governor who is interested in improving the quality of education for the health work force; has already paid for the NBTE fees and other requirement. the team will be coming in very soon for final accreditation with the Chairman of Abi as chief host. I therefore wish to use this medium to thank the Chairman of Abi LGA for restoring peace amongst the waring communities which will boast the confidence and safety of staff and students.please take up the college as one of your major pet projects.

The good news is that graduates of the college will now be mobilized for the compulsory one year National Youth Service Corps exercise.

Speaking on behalf of the executive council of Abi LGA, the Chairman Honorable Faratho Robinson Rima thanked the administration of Prof Ben Ayade for choosing Abi LGA for such an outstanding institution as he poured encomiums on the workaholic Health Commissioner stating that it's as a result of her efforts that the School has today become a College while promising efficient support for the College.

The Provost of the College Mrs Ruth Ebong who spoke on behalf of the management of the College expressed her satisfaction towards the efforts of the State Government which has today brought the College to be while meeting the required standard, she appreciated the Governor and Commissioner for the support stating that they are the brain behind this achievements as she promised not to fail in her responsibility.

In a vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary Bar. Takon Asu Takon on behalf of the Ministry thanked WHO for the support as well as Sen Prof Ben Ayade for the enabling environment while assuring the College of maximum support from all angles and solicited for more support from partners to the health sector.

The items donated includes 500 curriculum booklets, 500 procedure booklets, 500 hand booklets, 4 Organogram flex and 4 scatter flex. Alongside the Commissioner during the presentation was the Director of Nursing Service Mrs Pauline Obute, Director of Public Health Dr Iwara Iwara, and the Chairman of Accreditation Mrs Abasi Offiong the Head of Lab pillar COVID-19 Dr Okweji.

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former school of nursing & midwifery graduates to now go for NYSC

“We are proud of the achievements of our daughter Dr Betta Edu, we will support the new college”- Chairman Of Abi LGA."

World Health Organization has supported the CRS College of Nursing and midwifery Itigidi with administrative materials that are very essential for the accreditation process of the school. Presenting the items, the health systems technical officer of WHO Dr Daniel Salihu expressed that the items donated by the WHO's Country Director Dr Walter Mulombo Kazadi is to contribute to the kick off of the College and thanked the Cross River State Government as well as the Honorable Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu  for the proactive step the state has taken to get this far in establishing the college within the last 6 months while creating an enabling environment for partners to support.

Receiving the items on behalf of the State, the Health Commissioner Dr Betta Edu thanked WHO for a powerful support to capacity building in the Health Sector, she praised them for their excellent support to the schools as she believes that the said items will help strengthen the new college in its take off process.

"The administration of Sen Prof Ben Ayade and the entire CRSMOH is very grateful to WHO for this magnificent support as these items are the basics for the College which has kick started. The good news is that our amiable Governor who is interested in improving the quality of education for the health work force; has already paid for the NBTE fees and other requirement. the team will be coming in very soon for final accreditation with the Chairman of Abi as chief host. I therefore wish to use this medium to thank the Chairman of Abi LGA for restoring peace amongst the waring communities which will boast the confidence and safety of staff and students.please take up the college as one of your major pet projects.

The good news is that graduates of the college will now be mobilized for the compulsory one year National Youth Service Corps exercise.

Speaking on behalf of the executive council of Abi LGA, the Chairman Honorable Faratho Robinson Rima thanked the administration of Prof Ben Ayade for choosing Abi LGA for such an outstanding institution as he poured encomiums on the workaholic Health Commissioner stating that it's as a result of her efforts that the School has today become a College while promising efficient support for the College.

The Provost of the College Mrs Ruth Ebong who spoke on behalf of the management of the College expressed her satisfaction towards the efforts of the State Government which has today brought the College to be while meeting the required standard, she appreciated the Governor and Commissioner for the support stating that they are the brain behind this achievements as she promised not to fail in her responsibility.

In a vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary Bar. Takon Asu Takon on behalf of the Ministry thanked WHO for the support as well as Sen Prof Ben Ayade for the enabling environment while assuring the College of maximum support from all angles and solicited for more support from partners to the health sector.

The items donated includes 500 curriculum booklets, 500 procedure booklets, 500 hand booklets, 4 Organogram flex and 4 scatter flex. Alongside the Commissioner during the presentation was the Director of Nursing Service Mrs Pauline Obute, Director of Public Health Dr Iwara Iwara, and the Chairman of Accreditation Mrs Abasi Offiong the Head of Lab pillar COVID-19 Dr Okweji.

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WILLIAMS APPLAUDS GOV. AYADE FOR IMPROVING LIVING STANDARD OF C'RIVERIANS

By Itam Offor MOI OFFICER REPORTING FROM THE STATE HOUSE.

That Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly. RT Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams has applauded the State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade for his continuous efforts at improving the living standard of Cross Riverians.

Williams who was speaking during an interview with Journalists emphasized that Governor Ayade's commitment to regular payment of salaries to Civil servants and Political appointees as well as the exception of taxes for Low-income earners in the State is his way of ensuring that his promise of putting food on the table of Cross Riverians comes  to fruition.
He reiterated that Governor Ayade has also demonstrated commitment to ensuring the well being of Cross Riverians during the Corona Virus Pandemic by insisting that the best way to curb the spread of the virus is to wear face masks.

According to Williams, "He was the first Governor to block the borders, the first to declare no face mask, no movement, the first to demonstrate the use of ankara materials to make face masks and also produce face masks for other States."
He stated that the Governor has many more ideas which will lead to the development of the State adding however that money is a major challenge especially against the backdrop of the ceeding of the State's 76 oil wells and reduction of the federal allocation.

The Speaker further appealed to the Federal Government through the Niger Delta Commission and the Ministry of  Niger Delta Affairs to urgently consider the rehabilitation of  inter- State roads which are currently very bad, adding that the bad state of these roads have greatly impided the economic growth of the State.
He called on Cross Riverians to keep faith with Governor Ayade's administration while calling on youths to shun illegal activities including rape, armed robbery and kidnapping which are inimical to progress.

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WILLIAMS APPLAUDS GOV. AYADE FOR IMPROVING LIVING STANDARD OF C'RIVERIANS

By Itam Offor MOI OFFICER REPORTING FROM THE STATE HOUSE.

That Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly. RT Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams has applauded the State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade for his continuous efforts at improving the living standard of Cross Riverians.

Williams who was speaking during an interview with Journalists emphasized that Governor Ayade's commitment to regular payment of salaries to Civil servants and Political appointees as well as the exception of taxes for Low-income earners in the State is his way of ensuring that his promise of putting food on the table of Cross Riverians comes  to fruition.
He reiterated that Governor Ayade has also demonstrated commitment to ensuring the well being of Cross Riverians during the Corona Virus Pandemic by insisting that the best way to curb the spread of the virus is to wear face masks.

According to Williams, "He was the first Governor to block the borders, the first to declare no face mask, no movement, the first to demonstrate the use of ankara materials to make face masks and also produce face masks for other States."
He stated that the Governor has many more ideas which will lead to the development of the State adding however that money is a major challenge especially against the backdrop of the ceeding of the State's 76 oil wells and reduction of the federal allocation.

The Speaker further appealed to the Federal Government through the Niger Delta Commission and the Ministry of  Niger Delta Affairs to urgently consider the rehabilitation of  inter- State roads which are currently very bad, adding that the bad state of these roads have greatly impided the economic growth of the State.
He called on Cross Riverians to keep faith with Governor Ayade's administration while calling on youths to shun illegal activities including rape, armed robbery and kidnapping which are inimical to progress.

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CRS Commissioner for Health, saves a poor girl’s life by facilitating brain surgery in UCTH

The Cross River State commissioner for health, Dr Betta Edu has lauded UCTH for successfully carrying out brain surgery on Miss Comfort Effe, a 27 year old indigent woman who has been through 5 years of agonising suffering.

It started as occasional seizure disorder which her family blamed on which craft. Comfort was admitted into UCTH in Feb this year when her illness became complicated with blindness, paralysis, poor hearing and inability to control urine which developed by the end of year 2019, about three months earlier before she was admitted into hospital.

In UCTH, she was diagnosed with a brain tumour called meningioma and was initially referred for surgery in Enugu state, a journey she couldn't make due to lack of funds.

Leading the Commissioner for health to the patient's bed in the female orthopaedic ward of the hospital where miss Comfort was on admission, the Special Adviser to Gov Ayade on Health, Dr Ushie David explained that Comfort is a pauper from her native village in Bekwarra, northern CRS and also that she has been funded mostly by goodwill contributions for her medicare and upkeep since her admission in UCTH from Feb, 2020.

Dr Ushie extolled the Commissioner for her timely intervention, notting that, Comfort's life depended on the strong and persistent commitment that the Commissioner offered without which he could not have singlehandedly afforded the needed surgery for Comfort.

Dr Ushie acknowledged the CMD of UCTH, Prof Ikpeme A. Ikpeme, for assembling all the experts and providing the needed materials for the surgery. Without the CMD's hands-on commitment on that, the surgery would have been hard to pull off because of the numerous challenges bothering on personnel and instruments for the special surgery.

He concluded that although so much money has been spent already, Comfort is in need of more money to pay up outstanding hospital bills including, payment for her much needed physiotherapy.

On her part, Dr Betta Edu congratulated miss Comfort and wished her speedy recovery. She expressed satisfaction with the hospital management for the uncommon fit. Neurosurgery, she said, is not bread and butter. I am very excited that we can have this level of care delivered in our state.

She promised the support of the government of governor Sen Prof Ben Ayade for the giant step of carrying out a successful brain surgery, especially on an indigent patient who cannot afford hospital bills. Dr Betta further assured that she will reach the UCTH management to identify areas of assistance with key surgical instruments that can enable the hospital provide such level of expert care to more Cross Riverians who may be in need for brain surgery services from time to time.

The hon commissioner reiterated her mandate of encouraging and supporting the UCTH and other tertiary healthcare facilities in ways to help meet Gov Ayade's vision of a healthcare system that meets the needs of Cross Riverians from all works of life. This, she added, will be achieved by strengthening the primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare levels in the state through investment in personnel, training, facility upgrade and equipment.

Given that the state has direct responsibility for healthcare delivery services at the primary and secondary healthcare levels, Dr Betta added, it is only necessary that we support the preparedness of the tertiary facilities for optimal referral service delivery to our citizens in those areas where the primary and secondary levels lack the requisite skills.

Finally, Dr Betta advised the patient to forward her outstanding hospital bills for financial assistance from the CRS.

Comfort is currently recovering in the female orthopaedic ward of UCTH as she awaits arrangement for physiotherapy and other rehabilitation care.

On her part, Comfort's mother, Mrs Omali Effe, thanked the Commissioner for health for all the assistance, Dr David Ushie and the UCTH management for all the support.

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CRS Commissioner for Health, saves a poor girl’s life by facilitating brain surgery in UCTH

The Cross River State commissioner for health, Dr Betta Edu has lauded UCTH for successfully carrying out brain surgery on Miss Comfort Effe, a 27 year old indigent woman who has been through 5 years of agonising suffering.

It started as occasional seizure disorder which her family blamed on which craft. Comfort was admitted into UCTH in Feb this year when her illness became complicated with blindness, paralysis, poor hearing and inability to control urine which developed by the end of year 2019, about three months earlier before she was admitted into hospital.

In UCTH, she was diagnosed with a brain tumour called meningioma and was initially referred for surgery in Enugu state, a journey she couldn't make due to lack of funds.

Leading the Commissioner for health to the patient's bed in the female orthopaedic ward of the hospital where miss Comfort was on admission, the Special Adviser to Gov Ayade on Health, Dr Ushie David explained that Comfort is a pauper from her native village in Bekwarra, northern CRS and also that she has been funded mostly by goodwill contributions for her medicare and upkeep since her admission in UCTH from Feb, 2020.

Dr Ushie extolled the Commissioner for her timely intervention, notting that, Comfort's life depended on the strong and persistent commitment that the Commissioner offered without which he could not have singlehandedly afforded the needed surgery for Comfort.

Dr Ushie acknowledged the CMD of UCTH, Prof Ikpeme A. Ikpeme, for assembling all the experts and providing the needed materials for the surgery. Without the CMD's hands-on commitment on that, the surgery would have been hard to pull off because of the numerous challenges bothering on personnel and instruments for the special surgery.

He concluded that although so much money has been spent already, Comfort is in need of more money to pay up outstanding hospital bills including, payment for her much needed physiotherapy.

On her part, Dr Betta Edu congratulated miss Comfort and wished her speedy recovery. She expressed satisfaction with the hospital management for the uncommon fit. Neurosurgery, she said, is not bread and butter. I am very excited that we can have this level of care delivered in our state.

She promised the support of the government of governor Sen Prof Ben Ayade for the giant step of carrying out a successful brain surgery, especially on an indigent patient who cannot afford hospital bills. Dr Betta further assured that she will reach the UCTH management to identify areas of assistance with key surgical instruments that can enable the hospital provide such level of expert care to more Cross Riverians who may be in need for brain surgery services from time to time.

The hon commissioner reiterated her mandate of encouraging and supporting the UCTH and other tertiary healthcare facilities in ways to help meet Gov Ayade's vision of a healthcare system that meets the needs of Cross Riverians from all works of life. This, she added, will be achieved by strengthening the primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare levels in the state through investment in personnel, training, facility upgrade and equipment.

Given that the state has direct responsibility for healthcare delivery services at the primary and secondary healthcare levels, Dr Betta added, it is only necessary that we support the preparedness of the tertiary facilities for optimal referral service delivery to our citizens in those areas where the primary and secondary levels lack the requisite skills.

Finally, Dr Betta advised the patient to forward her outstanding hospital bills for financial assistance from the CRS.

Comfort is currently recovering in the female orthopaedic ward of UCTH as she awaits arrangement for physiotherapy and other rehabilitation care.

On her part, Comfort's mother, Mrs Omali Effe, thanked the Commissioner for health for all the assistance, Dr David Ushie and the UCTH management for all the support.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AN ENIGMA @59 - SENATOR LIYEL IMOKE, CON

To some people, he is a mentor, to others, he is a benefactor and to the generality of the people, he is that selfless leader worthy of emulation. 

All these are true and many more that could only be captured with a close study of the person of ‘The Avatar’, and you cannot be sure you would have a complete picture.

For me, he is a mentor, an enigma, a strategist, a father figure and role model that I have always looked up to. He is someone who has a firm grasp and understanding of human nature. This has proved him in good stead in his interaction with those who have had the fortune of coming across him. I can say, from my dose relationship with him that he is a man of deep foresight, a body of knowledge and vast experience. 

We lack words to thank God for you and what you mean to us. You taught us humility even when you have been everything and achieved so much in life. The indelible mark you established would continue to serve as a source of inspiration for us and millions in the years ahead.

On behalf of my family and the entire Cross River State House of Assembly, I join Cross Riverians and indeed Nigerians, admirers, teaming supporters and the family of our dear former Governor, His Excellency, Senator Liyel Imoke, CON, to celebrate you on attaining this age in good health and a sound mind. The years ahead shall be filled with God’s grace in good health for you to continue to render invaluable services to humanity and our fatherland. 

May your light continue to shine Your Excellency. Once again congratulations!!!”

Signed 

Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams 

Honourable Speaker - CRSHA 

10th July, 2020

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AN ENIGMA @59 - SENATOR LIYEL IMOKE, CON

To some people, he is a mentor, to others, he is a benefactor and to the generality of the people, he is that selfless leader worthy of emulation. 

All these are true and many more that could only be captured with a close study of the person of ‘The Avatar’, and you cannot be sure you would have a complete picture.

For me, he is a mentor, an enigma, a strategist, a father figure and role model that I have always looked up to. He is someone who has a firm grasp and understanding of human nature. This has proved him in good stead in his interaction with those who have had the fortune of coming across him. I can say, from my dose relationship with him that he is a man of deep foresight, a body of knowledge and vast experience. 

We lack words to thank God for you and what you mean to us. You taught us humility even when you have been everything and achieved so much in life. The indelible mark you established would continue to serve as a source of inspiration for us and millions in the years ahead.

On behalf of my family and the entire Cross River State House of Assembly, I join Cross Riverians and indeed Nigerians, admirers, teaming supporters and the family of our dear former Governor, His Excellency, Senator Liyel Imoke, CON, to celebrate you on attaining this age in good health and a sound mind. The years ahead shall be filled with God’s grace in good health for you to continue to render invaluable services to humanity and our fatherland. 

May your light continue to shine Your Excellency. Once again congratulations!!!”

Signed 

Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams 

Honourable Speaker - CRSHA 

10th July, 2020

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CRSPHCDA Seeks Worthy Partnership with Calabar Municipal Council On Effective Healthcare Delivery

The director general of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong has solicited for a worthy working relationship between the agency and the council for effective healthcare delivery for Cross Riverians.

The DG made the appeal while on a courtesy visit to the newly sworn in Chairman and mayor of Calabar municipal Council Honourable Nta Eke  and to seek ways of improving healthcare services in the state capital.

Dr Ekpenyong said,for efficiency in service delivery and dividend to be felt by citizens ,the area council as well as the Agency responsible for grassroot mobilization of Healthcare workers must collaborate to ensure that quality services are maintained in line with best global practices.

In his response,the Chairman of Calabar Municipal Council and Mayor of Calabar,Honourable Nta Eke disclosed that Primary Healthcare services are top most on the council's priority list as he seeks to collaborate with the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency in adopting its scope of operation to obtain results.

Hon Nta said the Primary Health care Agency has done enormously well in sensitizing Cross Riverians across the state on various covid19 protocols which he said are well adopted in all Local Government Areas today and as such the policies of the agency will be adopted to provide effective,efficient and quality healthcare services to residents of Calabar Municipality.

The Visit saw the presentation of various personal protective equipment to promote hand wash protocols in the council Secretariat and within the area council.

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CRSPHCDA Seeks Worthy Partnership with Calabar Municipal Council On Effective Healthcare Delivery

The director general of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong has solicited for a worthy working relationship between the agency and the council for effective healthcare delivery for Cross Riverians.

The DG made the appeal while on a courtesy visit to the newly sworn in Chairman and mayor of Calabar municipal Council Honourable Nta Eke  and to seek ways of improving healthcare services in the state capital.

Dr Ekpenyong said,for efficiency in service delivery and dividend to be felt by citizens ,the area council as well as the Agency responsible for grassroot mobilization of Healthcare workers must collaborate to ensure that quality services are maintained in line with best global practices.

In his response,the Chairman of Calabar Municipal Council and Mayor of Calabar,Honourable Nta Eke disclosed that Primary Healthcare services are top most on the council's priority list as he seeks to collaborate with the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency in adopting its scope of operation to obtain results.

Hon Nta said the Primary Health care Agency has done enormously well in sensitizing Cross Riverians across the state on various covid19 protocols which he said are well adopted in all Local Government Areas today and as such the policies of the agency will be adopted to provide effective,efficient and quality healthcare services to residents of Calabar Municipality.

The Visit saw the presentation of various personal protective equipment to promote hand wash protocols in the council Secretariat and within the area council.

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ENGR(DR.) DESMOND E. EWA - A VIRTUE TO WATCH

In a desperate society, sold out to mediocrity, corruption, greed, extreme competition, sick value system, cracked integrity and betrayals. In a society grappling vainly and desperately for help, for that one special spark, that one panacea to heal her sick state, to save her from an imminent nosedive into hades. A society longing for a restoration of virtue, knowing that the treasures of any nation under the watch of virtue, guarantees eternal security for her, knowing too that virtue is the only fountain from where honour springs. Such a society knows that when she finds virtue in a man, she has indeed found everything needed to rebuild her broken walls. It is to such a society that Engr. Desmond E. Ewa is emerging.

Engr. Dr. Desmond E. Ewa, like the biblical mustard seed, has spread his roots deep into the soil of virtue, keenly mastering every value required of him to stand tall, to stand strong, and, to stand untainted through these seemingly silent years. He has learnt overtime, the art of multi-tasking and absolute versatility, such that he has become a perfect combo of a mentor, a leader, a professional and an academic. Sitting on the very top of these four independent societal spheres, he seems to so easily drive them with an impeccable excellence.

A native of Bankpor Irruan in Boki Local Government Area, Engr. Dr. Desmond E. Ewa holds a Higher National Diploma (HND) and a Bachelor’s Degree both in civil engineering from the reputable polytechnic Calabar and Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) respectively, with excellent results to show for it.  So many professionals (civil engineers especially) would not want to take another step up the educational ladder. Not Dr. DEE, who has never and would never be found among the average many. He would rather stand-alone than remain like everybody else. Instead, he forged ahead, bagging a master degree in Civil Engineering, this time, specializing in Material Construction from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). Not still satisfied, he also bagged a Doctor in Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the same University.

As lecturer in the Cross River University of Technology, he is one of the few indispensable tools whose immense contributions has been responsible for churning out classical graduates of civil engineering. Graduates whose successes, the world over has been nothing but resplendent. He specializes in structures, engineering survey, building construction, material and highway/ transportation engineering, etc. He is the project supervisor of countless undergraduate and postgraduate students, the chairman of departmental board, a one-time coordinator of Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), and the Acting Head of Department of Civil Engineering Department, CRUTECH.  At the same time, Dr. Desmond is an adjunct lecturer in the department of Civil Engineering, University of Calabar. 

In all of the above roles, he has delivered his duties with humility, capacity and a very high degree of competency. He considers his role in the academic community a privilege as it serves him the opportunity to mentor a growing generation, imparting in them the virtue he has nurtured all his life. Trailing behind him is a string of young people - students and graduates he is not only mentoring, but carrying them along through every project.

Beyond the academic shores, Dr. Desmond E. Ewa is a Consulting Engineer. He has served as Project Engineer to various reputable consulting firms, such as STRUCT - DESIGN LTD, STATUS ASSOCIATES AND EKPE ARA & PARTNERS. He is a Director with KAIRO INFRASTRUCTURES LTD. He has been involved in a number of projects for Cross River State, the Federal Government of Nigeria and the World Bank. 

Engr. D. E. Ewa, has several publications to his name. He has published over eighteen journal papers in reputable journals within and outside the country. Has over fifteen local and international conference papers and has participated in over twenty six workshops within and beyond Nigeria.

 He is an outstanding Civil Engineer with myriads of certifications to show for it. He is a registered Member with the Council of Regulatory Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), a corporate member of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (MNSE), a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Civil Engineers, a member of the Nigerian Institute of Safety Engineers and an Associate member of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered arbitrators, to mention a few.

Engr. Desmond E. Ewa is all of the above and more, yet he maintains a calm, humble and humane disposition. He is a core lover of God, a pastor of his flock a sweet endearing husband and an amazing father. He loves to be a father, not only of his wonderful kids, but of every purpose driven young person under his watch. He is a complete man, indeed, a perfect epitome of virtue in a generation of eroded values.

..Engr. Michael N. Enu(MNSE)

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ENGR(DR.) DESMOND E. EWA - A VIRTUE TO WATCH

In a desperate society, sold out to mediocrity, corruption, greed, extreme competition, sick value system, cracked integrity and betrayals. In a society grappling vainly and desperately for help, for that one special spark, that one panacea to heal her sick state, to save her from an imminent nosedive into hades. A society longing for a restoration of virtue, knowing that the treasures of any nation under the watch of virtue, guarantees eternal security for her, knowing too that virtue is the only fountain from where honour springs. Such a society knows that when she finds virtue in a man, she has indeed found everything needed to rebuild her broken walls. It is to such a society that Engr. Desmond E. Ewa is emerging.

Engr. Dr. Desmond E. Ewa, like the biblical mustard seed, has spread his roots deep into the soil of virtue, keenly mastering every value required of him to stand tall, to stand strong, and, to stand untainted through these seemingly silent years. He has learnt overtime, the art of multi-tasking and absolute versatility, such that he has become a perfect combo of a mentor, a leader, a professional and an academic. Sitting on the very top of these four independent societal spheres, he seems to so easily drive them with an impeccable excellence.

A native of Bankpor Irruan in Boki Local Government Area, Engr. Dr. Desmond E. Ewa holds a Higher National Diploma (HND) and a Bachelor’s Degree both in civil engineering from the reputable polytechnic Calabar and Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) respectively, with excellent results to show for it.  So many professionals (civil engineers especially) would not want to take another step up the educational ladder. Not Dr. DEE, who has never and would never be found among the average many. He would rather stand-alone than remain like everybody else. Instead, he forged ahead, bagging a master degree in Civil Engineering, this time, specializing in Material Construction from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). Not still satisfied, he also bagged a Doctor in Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the same University.

As lecturer in the Cross River University of Technology, he is one of the few indispensable tools whose immense contributions has been responsible for churning out classical graduates of civil engineering. Graduates whose successes, the world over has been nothing but resplendent. He specializes in structures, engineering survey, building construction, material and highway/ transportation engineering, etc. He is the project supervisor of countless undergraduate and postgraduate students, the chairman of departmental board, a one-time coordinator of Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), and the Acting Head of Department of Civil Engineering Department, CRUTECH.  At the same time, Dr. Desmond is an adjunct lecturer in the department of Civil Engineering, University of Calabar. 

In all of the above roles, he has delivered his duties with humility, capacity and a very high degree of competency. He considers his role in the academic community a privilege as it serves him the opportunity to mentor a growing generation, imparting in them the virtue he has nurtured all his life. Trailing behind him is a string of young people - students and graduates he is not only mentoring, but carrying them along through every project.

Beyond the academic shores, Dr. Desmond E. Ewa is a Consulting Engineer. He has served as Project Engineer to various reputable consulting firms, such as STRUCT - DESIGN LTD, STATUS ASSOCIATES AND EKPE ARA & PARTNERS. He is a Director with KAIRO INFRASTRUCTURES LTD. He has been involved in a number of projects for Cross River State, the Federal Government of Nigeria and the World Bank. 

Engr. D. E. Ewa, has several publications to his name. He has published over eighteen journal papers in reputable journals within and outside the country. Has over fifteen local and international conference papers and has participated in over twenty six workshops within and beyond Nigeria.

 He is an outstanding Civil Engineer with myriads of certifications to show for it. He is a registered Member with the Council of Regulatory Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), a corporate member of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (MNSE), a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Civil Engineers, a member of the Nigerian Institute of Safety Engineers and an Associate member of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered arbitrators, to mention a few.

Engr. Desmond E. Ewa is all of the above and more, yet he maintains a calm, humble and humane disposition. He is a core lover of God, a pastor of his flock a sweet endearing husband and an amazing father. He loves to be a father, not only of his wonderful kids, but of every purpose driven young person under his watch. He is a complete man, indeed, a perfect epitome of virtue in a generation of eroded values.

..Engr. Michael N. Enu(MNSE)

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STATE COUNCIL ON PRIVATISATION PAYS FAMILIARISATION VISIT TO MINISTRY OF COMMERCE

 

Louisa Tatey, Reporting from Ministry of Commerce 

The Commissioner for Commerce, Pst.Mrs. RoseMary Archibong, has welcomed members of the State Privatisation Council to her Ministry. 

The Commissioner, who is also a member of the Committee, told the group that the task before them is an enerous one that will entail brain storming, travels and research in order to ensure the profitability of the numerous Industries, Palm Estates and other ventures in the Commercial Agricultural hub. 

She emphasised the importance the State Government attaches to the State Privatisation Council,noting that Governor Ben Ayade-led Administration has laid solid foundational Industrial infrastructure and is ready to transfer control partially or wholly to private enterprise.She expressed deep appreciation to the Governor, on their appointment.

Earlier, the Chairman of the State Privatisation Council, Mr.John Odo, expressed delight over their appointment stating that council members will work as a team to actualize a common goal set before them. 

He appealed that Government, should make available an office space as well as a vehicle that will aid movement to various places of assignment. He further expressed gratitude to His Excellency the Governor, for the confidence reposed on them.

The following,are members of the Committee;

Mr.John, Monday Odo  Chairman 

Mr.Festus Ita Okon 

Mr. John Odey 

Mr. Johnson Eyibio 

Mr.Butum Ubi 

Barr.Tanko Ashang, Attorney General 

Barr.RoseMary Archibong,Commissioner for Commerce 

Mr.Asuquo Ekpenyong, Commissioner for Finance.

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STATE COUNCIL ON PRIVATISATION PAYS FAMILIARISATION VISIT TO MINISTRY OF COMMERCE

 

Louisa Tatey, Reporting from Ministry of Commerce 

The Commissioner for Commerce, Pst.Mrs. RoseMary Archibong, has welcomed members of the State Privatisation Council to her Ministry. 

The Commissioner, who is also a member of the Committee, told the group that the task before them is an enerous one that will entail brain storming, travels and research in order to ensure the profitability of the numerous Industries, Palm Estates and other ventures in the Commercial Agricultural hub. 

She emphasised the importance the State Government attaches to the State Privatisation Council,noting that Governor Ben Ayade-led Administration has laid solid foundational Industrial infrastructure and is ready to transfer control partially or wholly to private enterprise.She expressed deep appreciation to the Governor, on their appointment.

Earlier, the Chairman of the State Privatisation Council, Mr.John Odo, expressed delight over their appointment stating that council members will work as a team to actualize a common goal set before them. 

He appealed that Government, should make available an office space as well as a vehicle that will aid movement to various places of assignment. He further expressed gratitude to His Excellency the Governor, for the confidence reposed on them.

The following,are members of the Committee;

Mr.John, Monday Odo  Chairman 

Mr.Festus Ita Okon 

Mr. John Odey 

Mr. Johnson Eyibio 

Mr.Butum Ubi 

Barr.Tanko Ashang, Attorney General 

Barr.RoseMary Archibong,Commissioner for Commerce 

Mr.Asuquo Ekpenyong, Commissioner for Finance.

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Greater Calabar City Dev. Agency to Partner with CRSMOH as Cross River enters 2nd Phase of Covid-19 Prevention Control

As part of measures to ensure all bottlenecks is address in terms of sensitization, creating awareness and ensuring Cross Riverians adhere strictly to the State Covid-19 guidelines, the Director General of Greater Calabar City Development Agency, Comrade Kingsley Ikpeme on Friday alongside the Chairman of the Agency, Mr Effiom Bassey paid an advocacy visit to the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu in her office.

Speaking, Comrade Kingsley Ikpeme eulogise the the State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade for his proactive style and efforts in ensuring  Cross River State remained Covid-19 free during the first phase of the pandemic. He urged Cross Riverians to adhere to all Government directives and guidelines by supporting the response taskforce achieved their aims.

Comrade Ikpeme disclosed that the Agency will be taking the message to every nooks and crannies of the State to ensure the people are well sensitized.

The Chairman of Cross River State Covid-19 Response Taskforce and Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu in her response thank the Agency for the visit and their push for a greater Calabar. She said the push for a greater Calabar will be successful if Covid-19 is defeated and the people live with no fear of a viral disease.

She added that their visit was timely and  important for more collaboration following the reopening of State borders by the federal government and influx of people to the state. According to her the state is in a very critical period where cases will soon be recorded due to the opening of borders.

"That's why I called on your Agency to collaborate with us in sensitizing the public on the need to strictly adhere to the Covid-19 guidelines and protocols as established by NCDC; She said.

Highlight of the visit was presentation of gift and commendation for her good works in the state.

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Greater Calabar City Dev. Agency to Partner with CRSMOH as Cross River enters 2nd Phase of Covid-19 Prevention Control

As part of measures to ensure all bottlenecks is address in terms of sensitization, creating awareness and ensuring Cross Riverians adhere strictly to the State Covid-19 guidelines, the Director General of Greater Calabar City Development Agency, Comrade Kingsley Ikpeme on Friday alongside the Chairman of the Agency, Mr Effiom Bassey paid an advocacy visit to the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu in her office.

Speaking, Comrade Kingsley Ikpeme eulogise the the State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade for his proactive style and efforts in ensuring  Cross River State remained Covid-19 free during the first phase of the pandemic. He urged Cross Riverians to adhere to all Government directives and guidelines by supporting the response taskforce achieved their aims.

Comrade Ikpeme disclosed that the Agency will be taking the message to every nooks and crannies of the State to ensure the people are well sensitized.

The Chairman of Cross River State Covid-19 Response Taskforce and Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu in her response thank the Agency for the visit and their push for a greater Calabar. She said the push for a greater Calabar will be successful if Covid-19 is defeated and the people live with no fear of a viral disease.

She added that their visit was timely and  important for more collaboration following the reopening of State borders by the federal government and influx of people to the state. According to her the state is in a very critical period where cases will soon be recorded due to the opening of borders.

"That's why I called on your Agency to collaborate with us in sensitizing the public on the need to strictly adhere to the Covid-19 guidelines and protocols as established by NCDC; She said.

Highlight of the visit was presentation of gift and commendation for her good works in the state.

Read More

NMA –CRS, a toothless association of UCTH, misfiring again and again

The highly revered Nigerian Medical Association known for it's outstanding contributions to the society through the instruments of health and the articles that establishes her have been reduced to nothing in Cross River State by some quack wannabes.

The only time which an association of that magnitude would ever by referenced in Cross River State, clearly must have controversies concerns, infighting, petitions, deadlocks and all the negative rhetoric that surrounds an average market association.

But this time, the NMA had decided to step up it's game to becoming a tool in hands of opposition who funds it's operations to stir uncertainty and civil disoriention using health as a focus.

In the just concluded NMA meeting in Calabar, a young doctor raised concerns over the strategies available by NMA if the State detects a COVID 19 case.

Surprisingly, the Chairman, Dr Ayuk told the members “i don't care but Cross River must record a case before Thursday, else we will down tools”.

The NMA cannot deny that the Chairman did not actually say this but expectedly, they will prepare a logical defense to that statement.

After many attempts by their several committees to dialogue and perhaps coerce the state into accepting cases of COVID 19 so to explore the lucrative largesse attached, they decided to declare the results themselves using their hatchet hospital, the UCTH, to marshal out their plans.

In their report, they claim that 17 doctors are currently in the isolation center after tested positive to COVID 19.

And in another report, they claim that over 70 samples were sent to NCDC and 5 returned positive.

The question that begs the conscience is, how can 17 Doctors be isolating in a three bedroom flat isolation center with only 3 bedspaces?

What are the names of these doctors in the isolation center and what are the variable evidence on ground? 

The NMA/UCTH accused the state for not testing, not sending samples and manipulating the samples as well. So what now happen to the samples they claimed to have collected directly, escorted to NCDC laboratory all by themselves? 

They claimed to have sent samples to NCDC accredited laboratory and that five of the samples came out positive. Why did NCDC not reflect that on their dash board?

Who is lying now, UCTH or NCDC?

How did the management of UCTH have five positive COVID-19 results that they published?

Does the management of UCTH have the right to publish any COVID-19 results? 

Are other tertiary health institutions in Nigeria doing the same?

Between UCTH and NCDC who has the right to publish Covid-19 results?

To crown the gibberish up watered threats, was the demand by some laughable elements of the NMA/UCTH, calling for the resignation of the Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu and the passing of a vote of No Confidence against Gov Ayade.

For the records, the UCTH/NMA as a very minut entity, lacks the onus to demand for the resignation of a sitting Commissioner, talkless the Governor but perhaps have same over the CMD who have been turned to their pawn.

My take:

Let the NMA refocus their energy into seeing to the end of the wanton killings of innocent citizens seeking help at the UCTH medical facility for lack of efficient man power and responsible system operations that has earned the hospital a demeaning status of “state mortuary”.

Let the NMA redirect attention to the issues bordering public health and quality service delivery as it concerns UCTH.

Let the CMD face administration and border about overhauling the dead fabric of the system, it would pay off than writing internal memo on COVID 19.

Selah!

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NMA –CRS, a toothless association of UCTH, misfiring again and again

The highly revered Nigerian Medical Association known for it's outstanding contributions to the society through the instruments of health and the articles that establishes her have been reduced to nothing in Cross River State by some quack wannabes.

The only time which an association of that magnitude would ever by referenced in Cross River State, clearly must have controversies concerns, infighting, petitions, deadlocks and all the negative rhetoric that surrounds an average market association.

But this time, the NMA had decided to step up it's game to becoming a tool in hands of opposition who funds it's operations to stir uncertainty and civil disoriention using health as a focus.

In the just concluded NMA meeting in Calabar, a young doctor raised concerns over the strategies available by NMA if the State detects a COVID 19 case.

Surprisingly, the Chairman, Dr Ayuk told the members “i don't care but Cross River must record a case before Thursday, else we will down tools”.

The NMA cannot deny that the Chairman did not actually say this but expectedly, they will prepare a logical defense to that statement.

After many attempts by their several committees to dialogue and perhaps coerce the state into accepting cases of COVID 19 so to explore the lucrative largesse attached, they decided to declare the results themselves using their hatchet hospital, the UCTH, to marshal out their plans.

In their report, they claim that 17 doctors are currently in the isolation center after tested positive to COVID 19.

And in another report, they claim that over 70 samples were sent to NCDC and 5 returned positive.

The question that begs the conscience is, how can 17 Doctors be isolating in a three bedroom flat isolation center with only 3 bedspaces?

What are the names of these doctors in the isolation center and what are the variable evidence on ground? 

The NMA/UCTH accused the state for not testing, not sending samples and manipulating the samples as well. So what now happen to the samples they claimed to have collected directly, escorted to NCDC laboratory all by themselves? 

They claimed to have sent samples to NCDC accredited laboratory and that five of the samples came out positive. Why did NCDC not reflect that on their dash board?

Who is lying now, UCTH or NCDC?

How did the management of UCTH have five positive COVID-19 results that they published?

Does the management of UCTH have the right to publish any COVID-19 results? 

Are other tertiary health institutions in Nigeria doing the same?

Between UCTH and NCDC who has the right to publish Covid-19 results?

To crown the gibberish up watered threats, was the demand by some laughable elements of the NMA/UCTH, calling for the resignation of the Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu and the passing of a vote of No Confidence against Gov Ayade.

For the records, the UCTH/NMA as a very minut entity, lacks the onus to demand for the resignation of a sitting Commissioner, talkless the Governor but perhaps have same over the CMD who have been turned to their pawn.

My take:

Let the NMA refocus their energy into seeing to the end of the wanton killings of innocent citizens seeking help at the UCTH medical facility for lack of efficient man power and responsible system operations that has earned the hospital a demeaning status of “state mortuary”.

Let the NMA redirect attention to the issues bordering public health and quality service delivery as it concerns UCTH.

Let the CMD face administration and border about overhauling the dead fabric of the system, it would pay off than writing internal memo on COVID 19.

Selah!

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Boki Chief shower praises on Ayade on prompt response to Covid-19

The Clan Head of Betriko in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State, Chief Dibang Omong has hailed the state Governor, Senator Ben Ayade for acting swiftly in ensuring that the state respond in proactive fashion to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Chief made the commendation when he received the Director General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong who visited him to seek improved collaboration in promoting primary Healthcare Services as well as managing the Covid19 pandemic in his community..

The Chief said, the Governor, Senator Ben Ayade has tried exceedingly well in shutting all the international borders  in Boki Local Government Area of the state notably Danare 1 and Danare 2, preventing the inflow of people from highly Covid-19 infected Cameroon while also pledging his support to keep Betriko safe from the virus.

The Director General in her response, appreciated the chief for mobilizing his subjects to make maximum utility of the Primary Healthcare Centres within Betriko especially Immunization and Antenatal services, urged him to as well  champion the awareness creation and sensitization of people on various Covid-19 protocols.

Dr Ekpenyong said, the Governor having shown immeasurable love to the people of Boki by Constituting a patrol station to check the migration of people into the state, deserves to be celebrated and supported by everyone especially opinion leaders whose authorities are held in high esteem to promote the state Covid-19 preventive and adoptive measures.

She however felicitated for the support of the community members to protect primary Healthcare workers, facilities and equipment in order to enjoy quality and available healthcare supply.

The Director General further presented some personal protective equipment as well as educate the chief and his households on Covid-19 best preventive measures which include, frequently washing of hands under running water using soap, use of alcohol based hand sanitizers, use of face mask amongst others.

Her visit to Boki saw her visit several Health facilities both in the Eastern and Western Regions to motivate and encourage workers to put in their best in order to compliment the efforts of the state Governor, Senator Ben Ayade in taking quality healthcare to the doorsteps of all Cross Riverians.

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Boki Chief shower praises on Ayade on prompt response to Covid-19

The Clan Head of Betriko in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State, Chief Dibang Omong has hailed the state Governor, Senator Ben Ayade for acting swiftly in ensuring that the state respond in proactive fashion to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Chief made the commendation when he received the Director General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong who visited him to seek improved collaboration in promoting primary Healthcare Services as well as managing the Covid19 pandemic in his community..

The Chief said, the Governor, Senator Ben Ayade has tried exceedingly well in shutting all the international borders  in Boki Local Government Area of the state notably Danare 1 and Danare 2, preventing the inflow of people from highly Covid-19 infected Cameroon while also pledging his support to keep Betriko safe from the virus.

The Director General in her response, appreciated the chief for mobilizing his subjects to make maximum utility of the Primary Healthcare Centres within Betriko especially Immunization and Antenatal services, urged him to as well  champion the awareness creation and sensitization of people on various Covid-19 protocols.

Dr Ekpenyong said, the Governor having shown immeasurable love to the people of Boki by Constituting a patrol station to check the migration of people into the state, deserves to be celebrated and supported by everyone especially opinion leaders whose authorities are held in high esteem to promote the state Covid-19 preventive and adoptive measures.

She however felicitated for the support of the community members to protect primary Healthcare workers, facilities and equipment in order to enjoy quality and available healthcare supply.

The Director General further presented some personal protective equipment as well as educate the chief and his households on Covid-19 best preventive measures which include, frequently washing of hands under running water using soap, use of alcohol based hand sanitizers, use of face mask amongst others.

Her visit to Boki saw her visit several Health facilities both in the Eastern and Western Regions to motivate and encourage workers to put in their best in order to compliment the efforts of the state Governor, Senator Ben Ayade in taking quality healthcare to the doorsteps of all Cross Riverians.

Read More

Cross River Government Laments Lack of Attention To Other Diseases

Since the outbreak of the Covid19 pandemic, little campaigns are been made to promote other services in health institutions which expert says ,could overwhelm the nation if urgent steps are not taken.

This is why the Cross River State Government is calling on operators of different media houses to diversify their focus in their news reporting to create more awareness on other diseases rather than Concentrating solely on the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Director General 

of the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency Dr.Janet Ekpenyong stated this in a workshop organized for representatives of different media houses on effective ways of reporting  infectious diseases which is still ravaging the lives of citizens.

  

Ekpenyong said,with high mortality rate still reported on other common diseases ,the lone attention given to Covid19 may become catastrophic as she said the state and nation cannot afford to handle another pandemic after the ease of the global Corona Virus.

She said part of the attention should be shifted to actualizing a 100% immunization coverage across the state and country on all vaccine preventable diseases still killing children under 5 years old.

Dr.Ekpenyong said the health Sector is leveraging on the media to reach out to those at the grassroots level to visit the hospitals for proper medication as heath workers are available to provide health services with all preventive measures on Covid-19 pandemic put in place.

Read More

Cross River Government Laments Lack of Attention To Other Diseases

Since the outbreak of the Covid19 pandemic, little campaigns are been made to promote other services in health institutions which expert says ,could overwhelm the nation if urgent steps are not taken.

This is why the Cross River State Government is calling on operators of different media houses to diversify their focus in their news reporting to create more awareness on other diseases rather than Concentrating solely on the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Director General 

of the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency Dr.Janet Ekpenyong stated this in a workshop organized for representatives of different media houses on effective ways of reporting  infectious diseases which is still ravaging the lives of citizens.

  

Ekpenyong said,with high mortality rate still reported on other common diseases ,the lone attention given to Covid19 may become catastrophic as she said the state and nation cannot afford to handle another pandemic after the ease of the global Corona Virus.

She said part of the attention should be shifted to actualizing a 100% immunization coverage across the state and country on all vaccine preventable diseases still killing children under 5 years old.

Dr.Ekpenyong said the health Sector is leveraging on the media to reach out to those at the grassroots level to visit the hospitals for proper medication as heath workers are available to provide health services with all preventive measures on Covid-19 pandemic put in place.

Read More

NYCN UPDATE: NYCN CRS CHAPTER FIXES DATE FOR ELECTIONS

The Chairman of Congress Planning Committee (CPC) Mr. Eyo  Boco of The National Youth COUNCIL Of Nigeria Cross River Chapter has announced 17th day of July 2020 for NYCN elections that was cancelled on the 19th day of June 2020, due to a vote of no confidence passed against the former CPC on account of too many irregularities.

He added that the venue of the elections would be communicated when approved by the Commissioner of Youth and skill development.

The CPC Chairman opined that the declaration is in the pursuance of the provision of the NYCN Constitution.

According to him, our sole mandate is to plan and midwife a process which would birth a Congress that would see to the emergence of a brand new State executives council through a very Constitutionally credible, free and fair elections.

In the Chairman closing remarks, he vowed not to allow any individual come in between them and the delivery of a free, fair and credible elections for the youths of Cross River State.

He finalized by urging all the candidates to desist from electoral violence.

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NYCN UPDATE: NYCN CRS CHAPTER FIXES DATE FOR ELECTIONS

The Chairman of Congress Planning Committee (CPC) Mr. Eyo  Boco of The National Youth COUNCIL Of Nigeria Cross River Chapter has announced 17th day of July 2020 for NYCN elections that was cancelled on the 19th day of June 2020, due to a vote of no confidence passed against the former CPC on account of too many irregularities.

He added that the venue of the elections would be communicated when approved by the Commissioner of Youth and skill development.

The CPC Chairman opined that the declaration is in the pursuance of the provision of the NYCN Constitution.

According to him, our sole mandate is to plan and midwife a process which would birth a Congress that would see to the emergence of a brand new State executives council through a very Constitutionally credible, free and fair elections.

In the Chairman closing remarks, he vowed not to allow any individual come in between them and the delivery of a free, fair and credible elections for the youths of Cross River State.

He finalized by urging all the candidates to desist from electoral violence.

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