We Must Reduce Vaccine Wastage to 0% in Cross River State....Dr Janet Ekpenyong

The Director General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency Dr. Janet Ekpenyong says 0% Vaccine Wastage in Cross River State is Achievable if proper management procedures are adopted by vaccine managers and administrators across the state.

Dr Ekpenyong who spoke in Odukpani Local Government Area at the flag off ceremony for the 2 Days intensive Training for Local Immunization officers , Cold Chain operators and other stakeholders in both the primary and secondary Heath sector on Vaccine management, urged them to be committed in  enhancing their capacities for proper Vaccine handling and administration.

Dr Ekpenyong said, the need for the training was borne out from the recent National survey  on high rate of vaccine mismanagement and wastage even as the state seek for ways of improving it's services both in the quality of vaccines being administered and the number of children immunized.

She however applauded the Health workers for their commitments which has improved the state's  ranking on Immunization services even  as Cross River state seeks for ways to further expand it's reach and scope to ensure that no child that falls within the vaccination age is missed during outreaches.

She further encouraged them to ensure that each health facility must ensure daily immunization and targeted children are reached to ensure that no child in the state dies from vaccine preventable diseases. 

"You are all here because we believe in your capacities, you are our foot soldiers and that's why we have gathered you all here to train you on how to manage our vaccines and avoid wastages even in our storage facilities.

We discovered that it is important for us to interface and share your experiences in the field with us as we seek solution to identified challenges for the benefits of our children.

We want to improve on our indices, by ensuring that  every community in the state, including hard to reach communities are covered, because we don't want Cross River State to be ranked low on immunization.  We have also begun the process of fixing our cold chains across the state to maintain vaccine potency in the highest quality, we must reduce vaccine wastage to 0% in Cross River State, and we need you all to succeed in this regards".

The DG who also commended the workers for their responsive nature in line with the State and National Guidelines on Covid-19 and other infectious disease prevention and control  protocols, admonished them to prioritize their own health while attending to clients since they are the most vulnerable group in the society.

"You are our first concern, and that is why His Excellency, Senator Prof Ben Ayade has ensured that you are well catered for. The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency with the support from our Governor, Senator Prof Ben Ayade has provided all of the information, Educational and communication material with other personal protective kits for our ever dedicated health workers".

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We Must Reduce Vaccine Wastage to 0% in Cross River State....Dr Janet Ekpenyong

The Director General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency Dr. Janet Ekpenyong says 0% Vaccine Wastage in Cross River State is Achievable if proper management procedures are adopted by vaccine managers and administrators across the state.

Dr Ekpenyong who spoke in Odukpani Local Government Area at the flag off ceremony for the 2 Days intensive Training for Local Immunization officers , Cold Chain operators and other stakeholders in both the primary and secondary Heath sector on Vaccine management, urged them to be committed in  enhancing their capacities for proper Vaccine handling and administration.

Dr Ekpenyong said, the need for the training was borne out from the recent National survey  on high rate of vaccine mismanagement and wastage even as the state seek for ways of improving it's services both in the quality of vaccines being administered and the number of children immunized.

She however applauded the Health workers for their commitments which has improved the state's  ranking on Immunization services even  as Cross River state seeks for ways to further expand it's reach and scope to ensure that no child that falls within the vaccination age is missed during outreaches.

She further encouraged them to ensure that each health facility must ensure daily immunization and targeted children are reached to ensure that no child in the state dies from vaccine preventable diseases. 

"You are all here because we believe in your capacities, you are our foot soldiers and that's why we have gathered you all here to train you on how to manage our vaccines and avoid wastages even in our storage facilities.

We discovered that it is important for us to interface and share your experiences in the field with us as we seek solution to identified challenges for the benefits of our children.

We want to improve on our indices, by ensuring that  every community in the state, including hard to reach communities are covered, because we don't want Cross River State to be ranked low on immunization.  We have also begun the process of fixing our cold chains across the state to maintain vaccine potency in the highest quality, we must reduce vaccine wastage to 0% in Cross River State, and we need you all to succeed in this regards".

The DG who also commended the workers for their responsive nature in line with the State and National Guidelines on Covid-19 and other infectious disease prevention and control  protocols, admonished them to prioritize their own health while attending to clients since they are the most vulnerable group in the society.

"You are our first concern, and that is why His Excellency, Senator Prof Ben Ayade has ensured that you are well catered for. The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency with the support from our Governor, Senator Prof Ben Ayade has provided all of the information, Educational and communication material with other personal protective kits for our ever dedicated health workers".

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Cross River State Environmental Protection Agency Set to Carryout Massive Sensitisation, Clampdown on Defaulters across the State - DG

The Cross River State Environmental Protection Agency (CRSEPA) has condemned in strong terms, the increased destruction of the environment across the state through water/air pollution, artificial erosions/flooding, cutting down of forest reserves, emissions and other ecological threats or disasters; maintaining that the agency shall henceforth come after defaulters.

Speaking shortly after an interactive section with all Directors of the Agency in Calabar, the Director General (DG) Dr. Egbai Ogbo in an interview with our correspondent thanked the Governor, His Excellency, Senator Prof. Ben Ayade for the confidence reposed on them to run the Agency. He further stated that the responsibilty to protect, promote and maintain a sustainable environment for Cross River State is an onerous one, adding that they all must reciprocate same with hard work, dedication,  steadfastness and transparency of purpose in executing this task.

The DG also lamented on the inordinate misuse, unfriendly and wicked ways people within the state abuse the environment out of sheer ignorance, greed, wickedness and selfish personal gains; adding that "the environment is our common heritage and we must work hand in gloves to prevent same from imminent destruction as it remains our source of livelihood and sustenance, hence we must collectively protect it from abusers who have become the common enemies of our dear state".

According to the Director General, Egbai Ogbo, he has structured and activated the different directorates/sub units of the agency for ease of administration and operation. He assured the public that plans are underway to increase awareness and sensitisation on environmental safety, promotion and protection across the 18 LGAs of the state. Especially in rural areas where the knowledge level is relatively low and practices of bush burning, cutting down of trees  and water poisoning for fishing activities still persist.
In his words: "We have been able to decentralise the agency by activating the different directorates/sub units of the agency for ease of administration and operational convenience to achieve maximum productivity".
"We have also prgressed our plans to carryout massive orientation and reorientation of the people's psyche and perception of the environment and it's preservation. Internal and external stakeholders' engagement; especially community leaders living in the rural areas, educating them on appropriate ways of putting the environment to use while avoiding it's  destruction thereby contravening the enabling environmental laws. The urban stakeholder dwellers are also in the focus bracket, thus engaging with them will drive further the need for environmetally friendly bussinesses and activities in our urban areas for healthier existence."
"The Agency is here to help our people interact with the environment gainfully without destroying it, rather preserving and protecting the lands, clean water, our forests and clean air for our use, our children's use and the generations yet unborn to inherit."

He further noted that the agency will no longer be tolerating defaulters of our environmental laws and shall penetrate all the 'nooks and crannies of the state to locate, arrest, fine or prosecute perpetrators of anti-environmental acts whose activities are causing ecological disasters. He further stated that even the environmental rates and levies shall be reviewed in line with the current realities of today. According to him, "we have designed strategies to enforce and recover all the environmental rates and levies provided under the enabling act establishing the agency".

In another development the Director, Ecological Preservation and Special Duty of the Agency, Hon. Ekuma Ngwu also thanked the Governor and His Deputy for finding them worthy, assuring the government and the general public of his best to safeguard and protect our ecological reserves for the living and even our generations unborn.

Hon. Ekuma, commends the DG, Dr. Egbai Ogbo for the robust display of leadership capacity, vast experiences and uncommon innovative ideas as well as his collaborative disposition; saying that these attributes of the DG will certainly bring about successes in achievement and attainment of the Agency's goals and objectives.

Others present at the meeting were: The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Environmental Protection, Hon. Moses Osoji and all the Directors appointed by the Governor to run the Agency.

With this development the Agency will be shaking the waters for a state-wide positive environmental change for the betterment of all in the State.

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Cross River State Environmental Protection Agency Set to Carryout Massive Sensitisation, Clampdown on Defaulters across the State - DG

The Cross River State Environmental Protection Agency (CRSEPA) has condemned in strong terms, the increased destruction of the environment across the state through water/air pollution, artificial erosions/flooding, cutting down of forest reserves, emissions and other ecological threats or disasters; maintaining that the agency shall henceforth come after defaulters.

Speaking shortly after an interactive section with all Directors of the Agency in Calabar, the Director General (DG) Dr. Egbai Ogbo in an interview with our correspondent thanked the Governor, His Excellency, Senator Prof. Ben Ayade for the confidence reposed on them to run the Agency. He further stated that the responsibilty to protect, promote and maintain a sustainable environment for Cross River State is an onerous one, adding that they all must reciprocate same with hard work, dedication,  steadfastness and transparency of purpose in executing this task.

The DG also lamented on the inordinate misuse, unfriendly and wicked ways people within the state abuse the environment out of sheer ignorance, greed, wickedness and selfish personal gains; adding that "the environment is our common heritage and we must work hand in gloves to prevent same from imminent destruction as it remains our source of livelihood and sustenance, hence we must collectively protect it from abusers who have become the common enemies of our dear state".

According to the Director General, Egbai Ogbo, he has structured and activated the different directorates/sub units of the agency for ease of administration and operation. He assured the public that plans are underway to increase awareness and sensitisation on environmental safety, promotion and protection across the 18 LGAs of the state. Especially in rural areas where the knowledge level is relatively low and practices of bush burning, cutting down of trees  and water poisoning for fishing activities still persist.
In his words: "We have been able to decentralise the agency by activating the different directorates/sub units of the agency for ease of administration and operational convenience to achieve maximum productivity".
"We have also prgressed our plans to carryout massive orientation and reorientation of the people's psyche and perception of the environment and it's preservation. Internal and external stakeholders' engagement; especially community leaders living in the rural areas, educating them on appropriate ways of putting the environment to use while avoiding it's  destruction thereby contravening the enabling environmental laws. The urban stakeholder dwellers are also in the focus bracket, thus engaging with them will drive further the need for environmetally friendly bussinesses and activities in our urban areas for healthier existence."
"The Agency is here to help our people interact with the environment gainfully without destroying it, rather preserving and protecting the lands, clean water, our forests and clean air for our use, our children's use and the generations yet unborn to inherit."

He further noted that the agency will no longer be tolerating defaulters of our environmental laws and shall penetrate all the 'nooks and crannies of the state to locate, arrest, fine or prosecute perpetrators of anti-environmental acts whose activities are causing ecological disasters. He further stated that even the environmental rates and levies shall be reviewed in line with the current realities of today. According to him, "we have designed strategies to enforce and recover all the environmental rates and levies provided under the enabling act establishing the agency".

In another development the Director, Ecological Preservation and Special Duty of the Agency, Hon. Ekuma Ngwu also thanked the Governor and His Deputy for finding them worthy, assuring the government and the general public of his best to safeguard and protect our ecological reserves for the living and even our generations unborn.

Hon. Ekuma, commends the DG, Dr. Egbai Ogbo for the robust display of leadership capacity, vast experiences and uncommon innovative ideas as well as his collaborative disposition; saying that these attributes of the DG will certainly bring about successes in achievement and attainment of the Agency's goals and objectives.

Others present at the meeting were: The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Environmental Protection, Hon. Moses Osoji and all the Directors appointed by the Governor to run the Agency.

With this development the Agency will be shaking the waters for a state-wide positive environmental change for the betterment of all in the State.

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Dr Betta Edu emerges as the National Chairman of Nigeria Commissioners For Health Forum

The Honorable Commissioner for Health Cross River State Dr Betta Edu has emerged as the acting National Chairman of the Nigeria Commissioner for health Forum.

The National chairman following a meeting with the Honorable Minister for Health Dr. Osagie Emmanuel Ehanire thanked the Minister for all the support to the forum thus far and thanked her colleagues for the privilege to Led the forum following after the foot step of the former chairman Dr Abba who did a great Job piloting the affairs of the Forum.

The new Chairman stated that topmost on the forums agenda now is to see that Nigeria can build a more resilient health system and Achieve Universal Health Coverage through the implementation of Basic Health Care Provision Fund and state Health Insurance Scheme in all states working with the Federal Ministry of Health, National primary Health Care Development Agency and National Health Insurance Scheme.
The forum will also seek to improve the general public health response of states to the COVID-19 Pandemic working in synergy with relevant Federal MDAs. There would be high level policy dialogues that will put health care on the political front burner in all states of the Federation working with The Honorable Minister for Health and the Nigerian Governors forum.

The chairman also hopes to reposition the forum with the establishment of a technical arm to engage Development partners and other key stakeholders.
We would take advantage of the present pandemic to advance discussions and actions on strategic building of health sector. Its COVID-19 today, another pandemic can put more burden on the health system in the future if we do not actively prepare. Building political capital will be crucial for our success, as a forum.

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Dr Betta Edu emerges as the National Chairman of Nigeria Commissioners For Health Forum

The Honorable Commissioner for Health Cross River State Dr Betta Edu has emerged as the acting National Chairman of the Nigeria Commissioner for health Forum.

The National chairman following a meeting with the Honorable Minister for Health Dr. Osagie Emmanuel Ehanire thanked the Minister for all the support to the forum thus far and thanked her colleagues for the privilege to Led the forum following after the foot step of the former chairman Dr Abba who did a great Job piloting the affairs of the Forum.

The new Chairman stated that topmost on the forums agenda now is to see that Nigeria can build a more resilient health system and Achieve Universal Health Coverage through the implementation of Basic Health Care Provision Fund and state Health Insurance Scheme in all states working with the Federal Ministry of Health, National primary Health Care Development Agency and National Health Insurance Scheme.
The forum will also seek to improve the general public health response of states to the COVID-19 Pandemic working in synergy with relevant Federal MDAs. There would be high level policy dialogues that will put health care on the political front burner in all states of the Federation working with The Honorable Minister for Health and the Nigerian Governors forum.

The chairman also hopes to reposition the forum with the establishment of a technical arm to engage Development partners and other key stakeholders.
We would take advantage of the present pandemic to advance discussions and actions on strategic building of health sector. Its COVID-19 today, another pandemic can put more burden on the health system in the future if we do not actively prepare. Building political capital will be crucial for our success, as a forum.

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LET WHO THE CAP FIT WEAR IT

With the present demand of the society now, when you are talking about who gets worth HON. ALPHONSUS EBA is worth the mantle of taking our great party/family (PDP) to the promise land.

He has been tested, trusted and found worthy of leadership therefore I will beckon on everyone to give him their total support on the forth coming congress of our great party.

The pragmatic leader we know has been tested in various ramification and he has never failed in delivering his duty and he can never fail in this aspect.

PDP as a party /family has been blessed to have someone like you who is willing to take upon yourself the responsibility of piloting the affairs of our dear party at the state level and we pray that he grant you the strength and wisdom to serve even as you are about to take us to our destination.

Sighed
AKOROKPOR LINUS

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LET WHO THE CAP FIT WEAR IT

With the present demand of the society now, when you are talking about who gets worth HON. ALPHONSUS EBA is worth the mantle of taking our great party/family (PDP) to the promise land.

He has been tested, trusted and found worthy of leadership therefore I will beckon on everyone to give him their total support on the forth coming congress of our great party.

The pragmatic leader we know has been tested in various ramification and he has never failed in delivering his duty and he can never fail in this aspect.

PDP as a party /family has been blessed to have someone like you who is willing to take upon yourself the responsibility of piloting the affairs of our dear party at the state level and we pray that he grant you the strength and wisdom to serve even as you are about to take us to our destination.

Sighed
AKOROKPOR LINUS

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TRIBUTE TO THE LATE HON. GODWIN AKWAJI

Today, it is with a heavy heart that I join you to mourn our colleague and brother, Hon. Godwin Akwaji, Member representing Obudu State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly.

The greatest pain is not the one received when we are physically hurt. Neither is it the one received when we are down and out. But it is the one received when one so dear and so close is taken away from us. Death is painful and comes with grief. It is in this grief and melancholy that we mourn one of us.

The sudden demise of our brother, friend and colleague, Hon. Godwin Akwaji is traumatic. Each time death occurs, it tinkers with the oneness, corporate spirit, togetherness and love that bond us in this House. Death is inevitable but whenever it occurs, we are taken by surprise.

Although he was a man with exceptional achievements, he never boasted about his achievement and contributions to his community and the society at large. He was a silent achiever who provided succor to many in his community, a gesture that cannot easily be forgotten.

Hon. Akwaji was a lively, calculative and focused person. I can describe him as a man of all seasons who was always confident, vocal and comfortable in any company he found himself. His death was untimely and painful. He left his footprints on the sand of history. He lived a memorable life of a true Christian full of enviable legacies.

As a legislator, we cannot forget his unique voice of courage, boldness, pedantic, brilliant and vibrant contributions to debates in this chamber. Each time he made contributions, he demonstrated patriotism and nationalism. He was a good team player who placed the love for the people above any form of individualistic or parochial interests. He was objective, truthful, sincere, committed and charismatic.

The Cross River State House of Assembly has indeed lost a rare gem, as shown clearly in your testaments. He was a grassroot politician who enjoyed the massive support of his people. Thus, appreciative of him, He served as the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Revenue Matters from 2015 to 2019, before his people elected him into the state house of assembly on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2019.

He was the Chairman of the House Committee on Lands, Housing & New Cities Development.  He also served as Vice-Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources. He was a great man who used his intellect and professional experience effectively. He co-sponsored several bills and motions in this house. It was easy to see the influence of his profession on the performance of his duties as a legislator; he argued with facts, figures and statistics that easily convinced his colleagues.

It was always a delight to listen to him because the people’s welfare and issues were his uppermost concerns.

You will be dearly missed my dear brother and close confidant. This is not the end of the journey but the beginning. We live to part, but we will meet when we shall part no more. God in his infinite wisdom has a reason for everything and we must believe in Him.

Death is the great reality principle, which smashes the idols of self-sufficiency and omnipotence. Death is the testimony of our creature hood. It is a true test of our faith in God.

Let me conclude with the words of St. Paul who offers guidance for the difficult hours of our lives. We need not be imprisoned in the fear of death. While there is still light and life let us “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.” (1 Cor. 15: 58).

Hon. Godwin Akwaji, fought the good fight. As we await the blessed hope of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, may the peace of the Lord be with him.

Our prayers and thoughts are with his family, his dear wife and children. May Almighty God grant all of us the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Adieu my Distinguished colleague, friend and brother.

May his soul rest in peace.

RT. HON. ETENG JONAH WILLIAMS

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TRIBUTE TO THE LATE HON. GODWIN AKWAJI

Today, it is with a heavy heart that I join you to mourn our colleague and brother, Hon. Godwin Akwaji, Member representing Obudu State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly.

The greatest pain is not the one received when we are physically hurt. Neither is it the one received when we are down and out. But it is the one received when one so dear and so close is taken away from us. Death is painful and comes with grief. It is in this grief and melancholy that we mourn one of us.

The sudden demise of our brother, friend and colleague, Hon. Godwin Akwaji is traumatic. Each time death occurs, it tinkers with the oneness, corporate spirit, togetherness and love that bond us in this House. Death is inevitable but whenever it occurs, we are taken by surprise.

Although he was a man with exceptional achievements, he never boasted about his achievement and contributions to his community and the society at large. He was a silent achiever who provided succor to many in his community, a gesture that cannot easily be forgotten.

Hon. Akwaji was a lively, calculative and focused person. I can describe him as a man of all seasons who was always confident, vocal and comfortable in any company he found himself. His death was untimely and painful. He left his footprints on the sand of history. He lived a memorable life of a true Christian full of enviable legacies.

As a legislator, we cannot forget his unique voice of courage, boldness, pedantic, brilliant and vibrant contributions to debates in this chamber. Each time he made contributions, he demonstrated patriotism and nationalism. He was a good team player who placed the love for the people above any form of individualistic or parochial interests. He was objective, truthful, sincere, committed and charismatic.

The Cross River State House of Assembly has indeed lost a rare gem, as shown clearly in your testaments. He was a grassroot politician who enjoyed the massive support of his people. Thus, appreciative of him, He served as the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Revenue Matters from 2015 to 2019, before his people elected him into the state house of assembly on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2019.

He was the Chairman of the House Committee on Lands, Housing & New Cities Development.  He also served as Vice-Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources. He was a great man who used his intellect and professional experience effectively. He co-sponsored several bills and motions in this house. It was easy to see the influence of his profession on the performance of his duties as a legislator; he argued with facts, figures and statistics that easily convinced his colleagues.

It was always a delight to listen to him because the people’s welfare and issues were his uppermost concerns.

You will be dearly missed my dear brother and close confidant. This is not the end of the journey but the beginning. We live to part, but we will meet when we shall part no more. God in his infinite wisdom has a reason for everything and we must believe in Him.

Death is the great reality principle, which smashes the idols of self-sufficiency and omnipotence. Death is the testimony of our creature hood. It is a true test of our faith in God.

Let me conclude with the words of St. Paul who offers guidance for the difficult hours of our lives. We need not be imprisoned in the fear of death. While there is still light and life let us “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.” (1 Cor. 15: 58).

Hon. Godwin Akwaji, fought the good fight. As we await the blessed hope of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, may the peace of the Lord be with him.

Our prayers and thoughts are with his family, his dear wife and children. May Almighty God grant all of us the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Adieu my Distinguished colleague, friend and brother.

May his soul rest in peace.

RT. HON. ETENG JONAH WILLIAMS

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EDET OKON ASIM’S DEMISE: A COLLOSSAL LOSS TO THE STATE – NTUFAM ETIM

By Blessing Enagu

Cross River Commissioner for Climate Change and Forestry, Ntufam Donatus Etim has described the death of Ntufam Edet Okon Asim as “a colossal loss to the State,” and  would be greatly missed, especially in the Forestry Cluster where he served primarily as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Forestry, Biodiversity and Conservation, until his demise.

Ntufam Donatus Etim gave the eulogy when he led a team from the Forestry Cluster in the State on a condolence visit to the family of the late Special Adviser who passed on recently in Calabar.

The Commissioner prayed for the repose of the dead, while also praying God to grant the family the fortitude and grace to weather such monumental storm.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Cross River State Forestry Commission, High Chief Tony Undiandeye, described Asim’s death as shocking, noting that it could not have happened if God did not approve it.

He encouraged the family to take solace in God and prayed for strength for the family as well as the eternal repose of the departed soul of the deceased.

Responding on behalf of the family, the departed Special Adviser's wife, Elder Mrs. Margaret Asim, thanked the delegation for identifying with the family in it's moment of grief.

Also among the team at the condolence visit to the deceased family were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Afforestation, Hon. Bette Obi and the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Timothy Ogbang Akwaji.
                   

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EDET OKON ASIM’S DEMISE: A COLLOSSAL LOSS TO THE STATE – NTUFAM ETIM

By Blessing Enagu

Cross River Commissioner for Climate Change and Forestry, Ntufam Donatus Etim has described the death of Ntufam Edet Okon Asim as “a colossal loss to the State,” and  would be greatly missed, especially in the Forestry Cluster where he served primarily as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Forestry, Biodiversity and Conservation, until his demise.

Ntufam Donatus Etim gave the eulogy when he led a team from the Forestry Cluster in the State on a condolence visit to the family of the late Special Adviser who passed on recently in Calabar.

The Commissioner prayed for the repose of the dead, while also praying God to grant the family the fortitude and grace to weather such monumental storm.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Cross River State Forestry Commission, High Chief Tony Undiandeye, described Asim’s death as shocking, noting that it could not have happened if God did not approve it.

He encouraged the family to take solace in God and prayed for strength for the family as well as the eternal repose of the departed soul of the deceased.

Responding on behalf of the family, the departed Special Adviser's wife, Elder Mrs. Margaret Asim, thanked the delegation for identifying with the family in it's moment of grief.

Also among the team at the condolence visit to the deceased family were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Afforestation, Hon. Bette Obi and the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Timothy Ogbang Akwaji.
                   

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ASSEMBLY PASSES CR APPROPRIATION AMENDMENT BILL 2020

By Itam Offor

Cross River Legislators have on Tuesday passed the State's Appropriation Amendment  Bill 2020 into law during plenary at the Assembly Complex, Calabar.

The 2020 revised budget has a budget size of N147,130,166,966, which shows a downward review of N953,038,340,721 from the 2020 approved budget size of N1,100,168,507,687.

Outlay of the 2020 revised budget shows recurrent revenue has been reviewed downwards from N121,461,868,952 to N66,085,762,847 indicating a variance of N55,376,106,105 while recurrent expenditure which was earlier approved at N184,900,048,007 has been reduced to N76,336,396,298 showing a decrease of N108,563,651,709.

Similarly, capital expenditure has been reviewed from N915,268,459,680 to N70,793,770,668 showing a decrease of
N844,474,689,012.

Earlier, the Clerk of the House, Barr. Bassey Ekpeyong had read a correspondence from the State Government which requested the Assembly's consideration and passage of the revised budget.

The Lawmakers who had dissolved into the Committee of the Whole, deliberated on the revised budget and  noted that the initial approved budget of N1.1 Trillion was no longer realistic in view of the current harsh economic situation occasioned by the COVID 19 pandemic globally.

 They unanimously voted for the downward review of the 2020 budget accordingly.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams noted that the reasons for the downward review of the budget were all tied to the COVID 19 pandemic which according to him; "has thrown up a lot of socio health, and economic issues", including total lock down, loss of livelihood, unemployment, hunger, pressure on health facilities amongst others.
Williams further noted that " the COVID 19 pandemic has resulted in a sharp drop in revenue at Federal and State levels" adding that; "proceeds from direct taxes are very low due to slow down on economic activities while in flow from Federal sources is low as a result of the decline in crude oil prices".

You may recall that the State Governor Sir Ben Ayade had in December 2010 presented a budget size of N1.3 Trillion christened budget of "Olimpotic Meristemasis" while the Assembly subsequently passed a budget size of N1.1 trillion into law.

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ASSEMBLY PASSES CR APPROPRIATION AMENDMENT BILL 2020

By Itam Offor

Cross River Legislators have on Tuesday passed the State's Appropriation Amendment  Bill 2020 into law during plenary at the Assembly Complex, Calabar.

The 2020 revised budget has a budget size of N147,130,166,966, which shows a downward review of N953,038,340,721 from the 2020 approved budget size of N1,100,168,507,687.

Outlay of the 2020 revised budget shows recurrent revenue has been reviewed downwards from N121,461,868,952 to N66,085,762,847 indicating a variance of N55,376,106,105 while recurrent expenditure which was earlier approved at N184,900,048,007 has been reduced to N76,336,396,298 showing a decrease of N108,563,651,709.

Similarly, capital expenditure has been reviewed from N915,268,459,680 to N70,793,770,668 showing a decrease of
N844,474,689,012.

Earlier, the Clerk of the House, Barr. Bassey Ekpeyong had read a correspondence from the State Government which requested the Assembly's consideration and passage of the revised budget.

The Lawmakers who had dissolved into the Committee of the Whole, deliberated on the revised budget and  noted that the initial approved budget of N1.1 Trillion was no longer realistic in view of the current harsh economic situation occasioned by the COVID 19 pandemic globally.

 They unanimously voted for the downward review of the 2020 budget accordingly.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams noted that the reasons for the downward review of the budget were all tied to the COVID 19 pandemic which according to him; "has thrown up a lot of socio health, and economic issues", including total lock down, loss of livelihood, unemployment, hunger, pressure on health facilities amongst others.
Williams further noted that " the COVID 19 pandemic has resulted in a sharp drop in revenue at Federal and State levels" adding that; "proceeds from direct taxes are very low due to slow down on economic activities while in flow from Federal sources is low as a result of the decline in crude oil prices".

You may recall that the State Governor Sir Ben Ayade had in December 2010 presented a budget size of N1.3 Trillion christened budget of "Olimpotic Meristemasis" while the Assembly subsequently passed a budget size of N1.1 trillion into law.

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World Hepatitis Day: CRSPHCDA Marks Day with Street Rally,Conduct Free Testing, Vaccination and Distribution of Condoms

Currently, there are said to be over 300 million people living with Hepatitis globally with about half of the number not aware of their status due to little or no access to a testing facility.

This year's event which was marked across the globe on July 28th 2020,with the Theme Hepatitis Free Future was commemorated in all countries of the world targeting new born babies as the focus was to halt transmission from mother to children.

In Calabar,the Cross River State Capital,the event was marked with Street rallies which featured awareness creation using songs and dances,free testing, free vaccination and well as the distribution of Condoms as a preventive tool.

Flagging off the campaign in Calabar,the Cross River State Capital,Director General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency,Dr Janet Ekpenyong said ,it was time to raise the level of  awareness on the dangers of Hepatitis which she described as one of the World's most deadly and fastest killer  diseases which has received the least attention so far.
Ekpenyong said,as much priorities that are given to other diseases, hepatitis should as well receive such prominence due to its nature of transmission and infectious rate.


Speaking on the Government's commitment in Managing the disease she said "The leadership of His Excellency Senator professor Ben Ayade has made provision for testing kits and vaccines which we have spread across the 18 Local Government Areas of our state especially in Boki where we have recorded the most number of cases.

On the outcome of the exercise in Calabar on the World Hepatitis Day,
Ekpenyong praised members of the community for taking advantage of the exercise in getting themselves tested and being vaccinated against the virus.
"I must commend everyone who turned out here today to get themselves tested,about a hundred people were checked today and that's encouraging,fortunately only 4 out of the numbers tested positive and we have referred them to the closest secondary facility where they are expected to get a confirmatory test.


She said though the disease is not hereditary but pregnant woman who are infested are most likely to transfer it to their unborn children and as such urged for random check up both for pregnant women and other people.
The DG further called on citizens to observe precautionary measures including the practice of safe sex using Condoms,avoiding or minimizing oral sex, maintenance of good personal hygiene,minimize the intake of  alcoholic beverages, regular testing and receipt of Vaccines.

Some of the symptoms she listed out includes: Jaundice, weakness of the body,increased stomach size due to fluid accumulation,yellow skin and eyes,nausea,lost of appetite among others.

Hepatitis which is an inflammatory condition of the liver present in patients either as Hepatitis A,B,C,D and E with researchers also making claims of other types and can be contacted from persons to person through exposure to body fluids like sweats,semens, unprotected sexual intercourse,oral sex,sharing of sharp and personal instruments etc.

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World Hepatitis Day: CRSPHCDA Marks Day with Street Rally,Conduct Free Testing, Vaccination and Distribution of Condoms

Currently, there are said to be over 300 million people living with Hepatitis globally with about half of the number not aware of their status due to little or no access to a testing facility.

This year's event which was marked across the globe on July 28th 2020,with the Theme Hepatitis Free Future was commemorated in all countries of the world targeting new born babies as the focus was to halt transmission from mother to children.

In Calabar,the Cross River State Capital,the event was marked with Street rallies which featured awareness creation using songs and dances,free testing, free vaccination and well as the distribution of Condoms as a preventive tool.

Flagging off the campaign in Calabar,the Cross River State Capital,Director General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency,Dr Janet Ekpenyong said ,it was time to raise the level of  awareness on the dangers of Hepatitis which she described as one of the World's most deadly and fastest killer  diseases which has received the least attention so far.
Ekpenyong said,as much priorities that are given to other diseases, hepatitis should as well receive such prominence due to its nature of transmission and infectious rate.


Speaking on the Government's commitment in Managing the disease she said "The leadership of His Excellency Senator professor Ben Ayade has made provision for testing kits and vaccines which we have spread across the 18 Local Government Areas of our state especially in Boki where we have recorded the most number of cases.

On the outcome of the exercise in Calabar on the World Hepatitis Day,
Ekpenyong praised members of the community for taking advantage of the exercise in getting themselves tested and being vaccinated against the virus.
"I must commend everyone who turned out here today to get themselves tested,about a hundred people were checked today and that's encouraging,fortunately only 4 out of the numbers tested positive and we have referred them to the closest secondary facility where they are expected to get a confirmatory test.


She said though the disease is not hereditary but pregnant woman who are infested are most likely to transfer it to their unborn children and as such urged for random check up both for pregnant women and other people.
The DG further called on citizens to observe precautionary measures including the practice of safe sex using Condoms,avoiding or minimizing oral sex, maintenance of good personal hygiene,minimize the intake of  alcoholic beverages, regular testing and receipt of Vaccines.

Some of the symptoms she listed out includes: Jaundice, weakness of the body,increased stomach size due to fluid accumulation,yellow skin and eyes,nausea,lost of appetite among others.

Hepatitis which is an inflammatory condition of the liver present in patients either as Hepatitis A,B,C,D and E with researchers also making claims of other types and can be contacted from persons to person through exposure to body fluids like sweats,semens, unprotected sexual intercourse,oral sex,sharing of sharp and personal instruments etc.

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Cross River State decentralizes COVID-19 Response to Local Government Areas, Task Chairmen on immediate Action

The Chairman of the COVID-19 Taskforce response team in Cross River State and the Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu yesterday met with the commissioner for Local Government Affairs Hon Stella Odey and the 18 Local Government Chairmen at the Ministry of Local Government affairs in calabar in a long technical session to discus their new roles in the decentralized response strategy to COVID-19 in the state.

The Commissioner for Health who congratulated them on their emergence as chairmen and the drive with which most of them have hit the ground running in their various LGA; introduced the new decentralization strategy for the response to COVID -19.

The discussion centered on the Local Government Chairmen calling together the already existing COVID-19 Taskforce and Rapid Response team in their LGA to a proper coordinated response directly supported by the chairmen. She tasked them to hold health workers in their LGAs and the rapid response team accountable for sensitization, sample collection, sample transportation, point of entry protection and contact tracing.

Dr Edu also used the same medium to advocate that chairmen and their cabinet members should actively supervise the health facilities and health workers in their LGA and support them as part of the lasting Legacies they can leave behind since everyone needs health care. She called for support to primary health care, Immunisation program and other safe motherhood activities that if not given proper attention may lead to death of people in communities.

Finally she called for the support from JAC for the reactivation of the Drug Revolving Fund in all LGAs in the state while assuring the LGA chairmen of better results with the sensitization campaigns going on in their respective LGA and her presence to Boost the advocacy.

In response the chairmen praised the Governor and the Commissioner for Health for the excellent proactive manner that the have handled the COVID-19 response in the state. Chairman Ogoja asked for an ambulance to support the isolation center in General Hospital Ogoja while commending the commissioner for the prompt response in Ogoja incident case especially on the lines of contact tracing, decontamination of affected facilities and sample collection from contact. He thanked her for the ongoing trainings to increase the number of hands that can collect sample and do contact tracing.

Yala Chairman sort for restructuring of the Taskforce at the LGA and improved funding at the grassroots to support wider sensitization. Akampa LGA chairman asked for support to strengthen the borders team to resist Cameroon refugees from coming into the state through Akampa. Bakassi and Boki asked for construction of General Hospitals in their LGAs while building capacity of the health workforce to manage other illnesses aside COVID-19.

The Commissioner For Local Government Hon Stella Odey, thanked the Commissioner for health for the engagement noting that her ministry will support the LGAs to live up to expectations as all hands are on deck to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic

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Cross River State decentralizes COVID-19 Response to Local Government Areas, Task Chairmen on immediate Action

The Chairman of the COVID-19 Taskforce response team in Cross River State and the Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu yesterday met with the commissioner for Local Government Affairs Hon Stella Odey and the 18 Local Government Chairmen at the Ministry of Local Government affairs in calabar in a long technical session to discus their new roles in the decentralized response strategy to COVID-19 in the state.

The Commissioner for Health who congratulated them on their emergence as chairmen and the drive with which most of them have hit the ground running in their various LGA; introduced the new decentralization strategy for the response to COVID -19.

The discussion centered on the Local Government Chairmen calling together the already existing COVID-19 Taskforce and Rapid Response team in their LGA to a proper coordinated response directly supported by the chairmen. She tasked them to hold health workers in their LGAs and the rapid response team accountable for sensitization, sample collection, sample transportation, point of entry protection and contact tracing.

Dr Edu also used the same medium to advocate that chairmen and their cabinet members should actively supervise the health facilities and health workers in their LGA and support them as part of the lasting Legacies they can leave behind since everyone needs health care. She called for support to primary health care, Immunisation program and other safe motherhood activities that if not given proper attention may lead to death of people in communities.

Finally she called for the support from JAC for the reactivation of the Drug Revolving Fund in all LGAs in the state while assuring the LGA chairmen of better results with the sensitization campaigns going on in their respective LGA and her presence to Boost the advocacy.

In response the chairmen praised the Governor and the Commissioner for Health for the excellent proactive manner that the have handled the COVID-19 response in the state. Chairman Ogoja asked for an ambulance to support the isolation center in General Hospital Ogoja while commending the commissioner for the prompt response in Ogoja incident case especially on the lines of contact tracing, decontamination of affected facilities and sample collection from contact. He thanked her for the ongoing trainings to increase the number of hands that can collect sample and do contact tracing.

Yala Chairman sort for restructuring of the Taskforce at the LGA and improved funding at the grassroots to support wider sensitization. Akampa LGA chairman asked for support to strengthen the borders team to resist Cameroon refugees from coming into the state through Akampa. Bakassi and Boki asked for construction of General Hospitals in their LGAs while building capacity of the health workforce to manage other illnesses aside COVID-19.

The Commissioner For Local Government Hon Stella Odey, thanked the Commissioner for health for the engagement noting that her ministry will support the LGAs to live up to expectations as all hands are on deck to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic

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C RIVER ASSEMBLY GIVES APPROVAL FOR 2 BILLION FACILITY

By Itam Offor

The House of Assembly has in a resolution granted approval for the State Government to accept an offer of 120 days temporary over draft facility of N 2 billion from first bank.

The request for the Assembly's approval was contained in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Tina Agbor which stated that the over draft facility was intended to ; "cushion the effect and consequences of the current corona virus pandemic which has affected the financial status of the State."

According to the SSG; "the credit facility has become necessary because of a shortfall in both the Federal allocation and internally generated revenue which is making it difficult for the State Government to meet urgent needs and important demands".

Members in separate remarks lamented the current economic challenges faced by not just Cross River but others States as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic and noted that the facility will assist the State Government strengthen it's lean finances.

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C RIVER ASSEMBLY GIVES APPROVAL FOR 2 BILLION FACILITY

By Itam Offor

The House of Assembly has in a resolution granted approval for the State Government to accept an offer of 120 days temporary over draft facility of N 2 billion from first bank.

The request for the Assembly's approval was contained in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Tina Agbor which stated that the over draft facility was intended to ; "cushion the effect and consequences of the current corona virus pandemic which has affected the financial status of the State."

According to the SSG; "the credit facility has become necessary because of a shortfall in both the Federal allocation and internally generated revenue which is making it difficult for the State Government to meet urgent needs and important demands".

Members in separate remarks lamented the current economic challenges faced by not just Cross River but others States as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic and noted that the facility will assist the State Government strengthen it's lean finances.

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