The Unchangeable Jarigbe; Girlfriend of the Masses (Part Two)

By Prince Charles Ekanem.

A man without guiles and with rather simple tastes, Jarigbe has earned for himself the deep affections of his Constituents. When you hear these constituents express concern about his performance, it is not as though they do not realise that the MP must one day retire from Politics. They are only lamenting how much they would miss the amiability of Hon Jarigbe Agom, a rare combination of profound achiever, intellectualism and self-effacement.

Jarigbe a tireless leader who has the opportunity to look back at his episcopacy, count his blessings and offer profound gratitude to the Almighty God who has kept him all through his evidently successful and inspiring career in the National Assembly. His accomplishments are many and awe-inspiring but he self-admittedly owes it all to the all-sufficient God whose grace upon his life has been extravagant.

The MP is simply telling the constituents and indeed the whole world that whatever success he has recorded as a Representative of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency is due to the guiding hands of his loving God, the one who called him into the holy orders of leading the people 3 years ago. Although this is not the end of his tenure as he seek a return ticket to fulfill his mandate, it is only proper to reflect, however briefly, on the last 3 years of Jarigbe's National Assembly career during which he has served as an excellent transformer, performer and achiever in delivering legislative assignment, empowerment and projects to the benefit of Ogoja and Yala people.

Right from the first day he assumed office, this project-filled and large-hearted servant of the masses has touched thousands of lives in very extraordinary ways. For the most part he has lived what he promised during the electioneering process. A man of his words, the word 'impossible' does not exist in his mind. His achievement are fervent and obviously from the heart, and they often bear great result.

He has feared nor despised no one. Not surprisingly, his slogan for 2019  is "Fear no one, Do it Right and Flourish." Oftentimes, his constituents are puzzled by Jarigbe's ability to connect with almost everybody, despite his very busy schedule as a National Assembly Member overseeing more than 22 political wards.

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The Unchangeable Jarigbe; Girlfriend of the Masses (Part Two)

By Prince Charles Ekanem.

A man without guiles and with rather simple tastes, Jarigbe has earned for himself the deep affections of his Constituents. When you hear these constituents express concern about his performance, it is not as though they do not realise that the MP must one day retire from Politics. They are only lamenting how much they would miss the amiability of Hon Jarigbe Agom, a rare combination of profound achiever, intellectualism and self-effacement.

Jarigbe a tireless leader who has the opportunity to look back at his episcopacy, count his blessings and offer profound gratitude to the Almighty God who has kept him all through his evidently successful and inspiring career in the National Assembly. His accomplishments are many and awe-inspiring but he self-admittedly owes it all to the all-sufficient God whose grace upon his life has been extravagant.

The MP is simply telling the constituents and indeed the whole world that whatever success he has recorded as a Representative of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency is due to the guiding hands of his loving God, the one who called him into the holy orders of leading the people 3 years ago. Although this is not the end of his tenure as he seek a return ticket to fulfill his mandate, it is only proper to reflect, however briefly, on the last 3 years of Jarigbe's National Assembly career during which he has served as an excellent transformer, performer and achiever in delivering legislative assignment, empowerment and projects to the benefit of Ogoja and Yala people.

Right from the first day he assumed office, this project-filled and large-hearted servant of the masses has touched thousands of lives in very extraordinary ways. For the most part he has lived what he promised during the electioneering process. A man of his words, the word 'impossible' does not exist in his mind. His achievement are fervent and obviously from the heart, and they often bear great result.

He has feared nor despised no one. Not surprisingly, his slogan for 2019  is "Fear no one, Do it Right and Flourish." Oftentimes, his constituents are puzzled by Jarigbe's ability to connect with almost everybody, despite his very busy schedule as a National Assembly Member overseeing more than 22 political wards.

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CROSS RIVER FIRST LADY FLAGS OFF 2018 FIRST ROUND MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH WEEK

The wife of Cross River State Governor, Dr (Mrs). Linda Ayade, on Friday , flagged off the 2018 First Round Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week in Ikom with a promise that the state is committed to fostering strong partnership with communities to ensure access of mothers and children to free medical outreaches and State Health Insurance Scheme (Ayadecare).

Speaking passionately during the event held at Comprehensive Health Centre, Ikom LGA, Dr Linda said the programme "was designed to deliver a weeklong integrated package of highly cost-effective, yet result-oriented preventive and curative services.

She disclosed that the administration of Governor Ben Ayade is leaving no stone unturned to see that the healthcare delivery system in the state becomes number one. "We are fostering strong partnership between government and communities to provide basic right to life for the mother and child through  every possible means.

Dr Linda Ayade charged the people to take advantage of the maternal newborn and child health week by taking their wards to the nearest health facility to benefit from

immunization, vitamin A supplement, de-worming of children, use of oral rehydration salt with zinc for children and use of insecticide treated mosquito nets to prevent malaria amongt others.

Dr. Linda also added that the Free Medical Health Outreach by Exco wives forum will also complement the maternal new born and child health week by giving opportunities for people who cannot afford surgeries, eye lenses, drugs and other services to benefit.

The Cross River First Lady mandated mothers to take advantage of the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme which is sustainable by enrolling to afford other health services with a token of 1,000 Naira.

Also Speaking, Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Inyang Asibong lauded the Governor wife and Exco Wives Forum for continuously organizing free medical outreaches across the State.

She said that through the support of His Excellency,  Senator (Prof)  Ben Ayade to  Maternal Newborn Mortality, Cross River State have reached the milestone in effort to reduce the high rate of preventable deaths, with determination to do more and scale up some basic steps in the area of family planning, preventive treatment of malaria in pregnant women and prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS.

Director General of Cross River State Primary Healthcare Agency, Dr Betta Edu said due to the diligent support of the State Governor, Senator (Prof) Ben Ayade Cross River State has been rated high in healthcare delivery and immunisation in the country.

Dr Edu called on mothers with children below 5 years to go to health facilities.  According to her the state target is to  reach out to 1.2 million children and about 650,000 mothers with the support of Fathers, neighbours, community leaders and care-givers who have roles to play in mobilising and encouraging mothers to visit healthcare centres in the state.

She said there is a solid partnership between the state government, the Federal Government, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, WHO, UNICEF and the media in ensuring the maternal mortality is drastically reduced in Cross River State

Earlier Speaking, Vice President Executive Council Wives Forum,  Deaconess Esther Obanghe-Osowo Osim Asu said free medical outreach program is one of the projects of the Governor's wife aimed at reaching out to the poor who cannot afford medical services.

Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Stella Orem Odey

said the wife of the governor is very passionate about the healthcare of the people and because of that she is here inperson to flag off the maternal newborn week and open the free medical services by exco wives forum.

The Governor wife was accompanied to the flag off by wives of serving commissioners, Her Special Adviser, Mrs Rosemary Eneji, Commissioner for Climate Change, Dr Alice ekwu, Mrs Philomina Inyang

Others included, Mr Julius Adie HOLGA Ikom, Paramount Ruler Representative, Ntufam Mayor Bakim.

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CROSS RIVER FIRST LADY FLAGS OFF 2018 FIRST ROUND MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH WEEK

The wife of Cross River State Governor, Dr (Mrs). Linda Ayade, on Friday , flagged off the 2018 First Round Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week in Ikom with a promise that the state is committed to fostering strong partnership with communities to ensure access of mothers and children to free medical outreaches and State Health Insurance Scheme (Ayadecare).

Speaking passionately during the event held at Comprehensive Health Centre, Ikom LGA, Dr Linda said the programme "was designed to deliver a weeklong integrated package of highly cost-effective, yet result-oriented preventive and curative services.

She disclosed that the administration of Governor Ben Ayade is leaving no stone unturned to see that the healthcare delivery system in the state becomes number one. "We are fostering strong partnership between government and communities to provide basic right to life for the mother and child through  every possible means.

Dr Linda Ayade charged the people to take advantage of the maternal newborn and child health week by taking their wards to the nearest health facility to benefit from

immunization, vitamin A supplement, de-worming of children, use of oral rehydration salt with zinc for children and use of insecticide treated mosquito nets to prevent malaria amongt others.

Dr. Linda also added that the Free Medical Health Outreach by Exco wives forum will also complement the maternal new born and child health week by giving opportunities for people who cannot afford surgeries, eye lenses, drugs and other services to benefit.

The Cross River First Lady mandated mothers to take advantage of the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme which is sustainable by enrolling to afford other health services with a token of 1,000 Naira.

Also Speaking, Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Inyang Asibong lauded the Governor wife and Exco Wives Forum for continuously organizing free medical outreaches across the State.

She said that through the support of His Excellency,  Senator (Prof)  Ben Ayade to  Maternal Newborn Mortality, Cross River State have reached the milestone in effort to reduce the high rate of preventable deaths, with determination to do more and scale up some basic steps in the area of family planning, preventive treatment of malaria in pregnant women and prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDS.

Director General of Cross River State Primary Healthcare Agency, Dr Betta Edu said due to the diligent support of the State Governor, Senator (Prof) Ben Ayade Cross River State has been rated high in healthcare delivery and immunisation in the country.

Dr Edu called on mothers with children below 5 years to go to health facilities.  According to her the state target is to  reach out to 1.2 million children and about 650,000 mothers with the support of Fathers, neighbours, community leaders and care-givers who have roles to play in mobilising and encouraging mothers to visit healthcare centres in the state.

She said there is a solid partnership between the state government, the Federal Government, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, WHO, UNICEF and the media in ensuring the maternal mortality is drastically reduced in Cross River State

Earlier Speaking, Vice President Executive Council Wives Forum,  Deaconess Esther Obanghe-Osowo Osim Asu said free medical outreach program is one of the projects of the Governor's wife aimed at reaching out to the poor who cannot afford medical services.

Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Stella Orem Odey

said the wife of the governor is very passionate about the healthcare of the people and because of that she is here inperson to flag off the maternal newborn week and open the free medical services by exco wives forum.

The Governor wife was accompanied to the flag off by wives of serving commissioners, Her Special Adviser, Mrs Rosemary Eneji, Commissioner for Climate Change, Dr Alice ekwu, Mrs Philomina Inyang

Others included, Mr Julius Adie HOLGA Ikom, Paramount Ruler Representative, Ntufam Mayor Bakim.

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ARCHIBONG TASKS BROADCAST MEDIA ON LOCAL CONTENT

By Benedict Okache

Broadcast Stations operating in the State have been enjoined to dwell more on local content in their daily reportage of news activities in the State in order to carry the citizenry along and attract more listenership.

The Cross River State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. RoseMary Archibong stated this while receiving  the new General Manager of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Canaan City 99.5 FM Calabar, Mr. Sam Bassey and his Management team who paid her a courtesy visit in her office in Calabar.

Mrs. Archibong lauded the Radio Station, which she pointed out, has made a huge mark in uniting the people through its diverse programmes spread across several cultural backgrounds in the State, emphasizing that carrying more of local news would help in endearing the Station more to the people.

The Information and Orientation Commissioner assured the Station of the commitment of the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration to providing a conducive work environment for all media Practitioners operating in the State to carry out their legitimate duties, while urging them to strive to imbibe professional ethics in their day-to-day activities.

She told the General-Manager and his team that the efforts of Governor Ayade to industrialize Cross River State is yielding results, pointing out that the Rice Mill in Ogoja, the Ultra-modern Cocoa Processing Factory in Ikom, the Toothpick Factory in Ekori, the Banana Plantation in Odukpani, the Calabar Pharmaceutical Company, among other projects, are all at advanced stages of completion, while the Cross River Garment Factory and the Rice Seed and Seedlings Multiplication Factory in Calabar have both commenced operations with hundreds of Cross Riverians gainfully employed.

Mrs. Archibong charged the station to give wide publicity to the modest efforts of the present administration and assured them that their requests would be forwarded to Governor Ayade, who she noted, has a listening ear to attend to them in view of their importance.

The new General-Manager of FRCN, Canaan City 99.5 FM, Mr. Sam Bassey said he took the reins of the station over a month ago and found it necessary to familiarize himself with major players in information management in the State.

Mr. Bassey told the Commissioner that Canaan City FM has in the last four years of its existence in the State, developed several programmes aimed at providing a platform to adequately publicize the State, with emphasis on the policies and initiatives of the present administration and pledged to do more during his tenure.

He appealed to Governor Ben Ayade to support the Station in the area of studio equipment, transmitters, vehicles, furniture, fuelling, among other needs, which he maintained, will help keep the station regularly on air for the overall benefits of residents of the State.

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ARCHIBONG TASKS BROADCAST MEDIA ON LOCAL CONTENT

By Benedict Okache

Broadcast Stations operating in the State have been enjoined to dwell more on local content in their daily reportage of news activities in the State in order to carry the citizenry along and attract more listenership.

The Cross River State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. RoseMary Archibong stated this while receiving  the new General Manager of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Canaan City 99.5 FM Calabar, Mr. Sam Bassey and his Management team who paid her a courtesy visit in her office in Calabar.

Mrs. Archibong lauded the Radio Station, which she pointed out, has made a huge mark in uniting the people through its diverse programmes spread across several cultural backgrounds in the State, emphasizing that carrying more of local news would help in endearing the Station more to the people.

The Information and Orientation Commissioner assured the Station of the commitment of the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration to providing a conducive work environment for all media Practitioners operating in the State to carry out their legitimate duties, while urging them to strive to imbibe professional ethics in their day-to-day activities.

She told the General-Manager and his team that the efforts of Governor Ayade to industrialize Cross River State is yielding results, pointing out that the Rice Mill in Ogoja, the Ultra-modern Cocoa Processing Factory in Ikom, the Toothpick Factory in Ekori, the Banana Plantation in Odukpani, the Calabar Pharmaceutical Company, among other projects, are all at advanced stages of completion, while the Cross River Garment Factory and the Rice Seed and Seedlings Multiplication Factory in Calabar have both commenced operations with hundreds of Cross Riverians gainfully employed.

Mrs. Archibong charged the station to give wide publicity to the modest efforts of the present administration and assured them that their requests would be forwarded to Governor Ayade, who she noted, has a listening ear to attend to them in view of their importance.

The new General-Manager of FRCN, Canaan City 99.5 FM, Mr. Sam Bassey said he took the reins of the station over a month ago and found it necessary to familiarize himself with major players in information management in the State.

Mr. Bassey told the Commissioner that Canaan City FM has in the last four years of its existence in the State, developed several programmes aimed at providing a platform to adequately publicize the State, with emphasis on the policies and initiatives of the present administration and pledged to do more during his tenure.

He appealed to Governor Ben Ayade to support the Station in the area of studio equipment, transmitters, vehicles, furniture, fuelling, among other needs, which he maintained, will help keep the station regularly on air for the overall benefits of residents of the State.

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CENSA CHIEF APPLAUD LEBO LEBO FOR A JOB WELL DONE

The CENTRAL SENATORIAL STUDENTS ASSEMBLY OF CROSS RIVER STATE WORLDWIDE (CENSA-WW), HRH CHIEF OBETEN EMMANUEL congratulates LEBO LEBO EDU for a job well done, In a press release by his Chief Press Secretary Comr. Usani Usani.

 The CENSA-WW CHIEF said and I quote "Bearly two weeks ago LEBO LEBO EDU was appointed State Coordinator of all Political support groups, Organizations in the State, he has in this short period of time Carried our one of the most difficult task ever". 

Continuing, Chief Obeten said, the most difficult set of people to control in life are Human beings, but LEBO LEBO has proven beyond reasonable dought that he is equal to the task.

Further more, he reiterated that, when you see true Leaders, you will know. In his speech, he advice friends, support groups and the entire Cross River State to continue giving support and cooperate with the state coodinator for effective leadership.

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CENSA CHIEF APPLAUD LEBO LEBO FOR A JOB WELL DONE

The CENTRAL SENATORIAL STUDENTS ASSEMBLY OF CROSS RIVER STATE WORLDWIDE (CENSA-WW), HRH CHIEF OBETEN EMMANUEL congratulates LEBO LEBO EDU for a job well done, In a press release by his Chief Press Secretary Comr. Usani Usani.

 The CENSA-WW CHIEF said and I quote "Bearly two weeks ago LEBO LEBO EDU was appointed State Coordinator of all Political support groups, Organizations in the State, he has in this short period of time Carried our one of the most difficult task ever". 

Continuing, Chief Obeten said, the most difficult set of people to control in life are Human beings, but LEBO LEBO has proven beyond reasonable dought that he is equal to the task.

Further more, he reiterated that, when you see true Leaders, you will know. In his speech, he advice friends, support groups and the entire Cross River State to continue giving support and cooperate with the state coodinator for effective leadership.

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HOS CHARGES CIVIL SERVANTS ON HARDWORK AS A PANACEA TO STRENGTHENING GOVERNMENT EFFORTS

By Kingsley Agim

The Head of Service of Cross River State, Mr. Ekpenyong Henshaw has charged Civil Servants in the State to remain hard working in order to complement government's efforts in engendering development.

The Head of Service gave the charge when he spoke to newsmen on the sidelines of the Valedictory Session in honour of Late Rt. Hon. Stephen Akomaye Ukpukpen, held Friday, 20th July, 2018 at the Hallowed Chambers of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Calabar.

Mr. Henshaw, who described the Service as "the engine room of the State," said civil servants must remain committed and strive to do even more to aid the Government in implementing its policies and programmes for the betterment of the citizenry.

The Head of Service stated "the present administration is doing so much in strengthening the civil service institution; therefore it behooves civil servants in the State to repay the government's goodwill by putting in their best to making the State greater."

Mr. Henshaw admonished civil servants to support the present administration's giant strides in industrialization and agricultural economy, maintaining that in the nearest future, it is the civil servants that will be the biggest beneficiaries of such prosperity.

The Head of Service also used the event to condole with the family of Late Hon. Ukpukpen, his Obudu State Constituency and the State Government of Cross River State for the monumental loss, as well as prayed for eternal repose for the departed legislator.

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HOS CHARGES CIVIL SERVANTS ON HARDWORK AS A PANACEA TO STRENGTHENING GOVERNMENT EFFORTS

By Kingsley Agim

The Head of Service of Cross River State, Mr. Ekpenyong Henshaw has charged Civil Servants in the State to remain hard working in order to complement government's efforts in engendering development.

The Head of Service gave the charge when he spoke to newsmen on the sidelines of the Valedictory Session in honour of Late Rt. Hon. Stephen Akomaye Ukpukpen, held Friday, 20th July, 2018 at the Hallowed Chambers of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Calabar.

Mr. Henshaw, who described the Service as "the engine room of the State," said civil servants must remain committed and strive to do even more to aid the Government in implementing its policies and programmes for the betterment of the citizenry.

The Head of Service stated "the present administration is doing so much in strengthening the civil service institution; therefore it behooves civil servants in the State to repay the government's goodwill by putting in their best to making the State greater."

Mr. Henshaw admonished civil servants to support the present administration's giant strides in industrialization and agricultural economy, maintaining that in the nearest future, it is the civil servants that will be the biggest beneficiaries of such prosperity.

The Head of Service also used the event to condole with the family of Late Hon. Ukpukpen, his Obudu State Constituency and the State Government of Cross River State for the monumental loss, as well as prayed for eternal repose for the departed legislator.

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IGBOS CHARGED ON DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE

By Kingsley Agim

The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. RoseMary Archibong, has tasked the Igbo Community in Cross River State to make efforts to intervene in the perennial communal crises that have bedeviled some boundary communities of Cross River State and their Igbo neighbours. 

Mrs. Archibong gave the charge when a delegation of the Igbo Community in Calabar paid her a courtesy visit in her office recently.

Decrying the incessant communal skirmishes between Izzi in Ebonyi and Ukelle in Cross River State, which is one among many other communal crises; Mrs. Archibong quipped that as neighbours, it is pertinent for peace and good neighbourliness to be maintained between the two States, emphasizing that no development can thrive in the face of crisis.

The Commissioner enjoined Igbo leaders in the State to regularly interface with their home States on the need to shun all vices capable of breaching the peace among neighboring communities, pointing out that the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration is hugely committed to promoting peaceful co-existence with all her neighbouring States.

The Commissioner expressed overwhelming delight in the Igbo Community's gesture as well as their preparedness to partner with the Government of Cross River State, especially in the area of economic development.

Mrs. Archibong noted that given Governor Ayade's business-mindedness, he will find the Igbos as effective partners that would engender a more robust economy for the people of the State.

The Information and Orientation Boss further maintained that with all the economic and industrial activities going on in the State and given the Igbos' industry and business acumen; "who else should seek partnership with the State order than the latter?"

She further stated that Governor Ayade, apart from industrializing the State, has also been able to transform the agricultural sector from peasantry to technological and agricultural tourism; an achievement, Mrs. Archibong emphasized, has amassed international investment and won President Buhari's accolades for the State.

Mrs. Archibong charged the group to be prepared for the imminent economic extravaganza that would beckon at the actualization of the Deep Seaport, adding that the Super Highway, which is an evacuation corridor of the Port, will enhance commercial activities in the State.

On security, the Commissioner noted that the Governor's establishment of a community surveillance group called 'Home Land Security,' among other security agencies are not resting in their resolve to guaranteeing the safety of lives and property, while calling on residents of the State to also assist security agents with useful information that will aid in ridding the State of vices.

Earlier in his remarks, the President-General, Igbo Community, Calabar Branch, Prof. Emeka Okwueze, hailed Governor Ben Ayade's visionary leadership disposition and sought to partner with the State Government in its resolve to bring economic development to its citizens and residents of the State.

Prof. Okwueze stated that the Igbo Community is very enthused and excited about the activities of the Governor Ben Ayade administration, especially in the giant industrialization and agricultural strides recorded so far.

The President-General, who branded Cross River as 'the Project State' because of the many projects littered across the State, expressed amazement at Governor Ayade's ability in prudently managing the State's resources, especially in the area of regular payment of salaries amid lean funds from the Federation account.

The Igbo Leader further called on Governor Ayade to expedite action in ensuring that the Bakassi Deep Seaport is brought to fruition, pointing out that Cross River State would soon witness a turnaround with the Port in place.

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IGBOS CHARGED ON DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE

By Kingsley Agim

The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. RoseMary Archibong, has tasked the Igbo Community in Cross River State to make efforts to intervene in the perennial communal crises that have bedeviled some boundary communities of Cross River State and their Igbo neighbours. 

Mrs. Archibong gave the charge when a delegation of the Igbo Community in Calabar paid her a courtesy visit in her office recently.

Decrying the incessant communal skirmishes between Izzi in Ebonyi and Ukelle in Cross River State, which is one among many other communal crises; Mrs. Archibong quipped that as neighbours, it is pertinent for peace and good neighbourliness to be maintained between the two States, emphasizing that no development can thrive in the face of crisis.

The Commissioner enjoined Igbo leaders in the State to regularly interface with their home States on the need to shun all vices capable of breaching the peace among neighboring communities, pointing out that the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration is hugely committed to promoting peaceful co-existence with all her neighbouring States.

The Commissioner expressed overwhelming delight in the Igbo Community's gesture as well as their preparedness to partner with the Government of Cross River State, especially in the area of economic development.

Mrs. Archibong noted that given Governor Ayade's business-mindedness, he will find the Igbos as effective partners that would engender a more robust economy for the people of the State.

The Information and Orientation Boss further maintained that with all the economic and industrial activities going on in the State and given the Igbos' industry and business acumen; "who else should seek partnership with the State order than the latter?"

She further stated that Governor Ayade, apart from industrializing the State, has also been able to transform the agricultural sector from peasantry to technological and agricultural tourism; an achievement, Mrs. Archibong emphasized, has amassed international investment and won President Buhari's accolades for the State.

Mrs. Archibong charged the group to be prepared for the imminent economic extravaganza that would beckon at the actualization of the Deep Seaport, adding that the Super Highway, which is an evacuation corridor of the Port, will enhance commercial activities in the State.

On security, the Commissioner noted that the Governor's establishment of a community surveillance group called 'Home Land Security,' among other security agencies are not resting in their resolve to guaranteeing the safety of lives and property, while calling on residents of the State to also assist security agents with useful information that will aid in ridding the State of vices.

Earlier in his remarks, the President-General, Igbo Community, Calabar Branch, Prof. Emeka Okwueze, hailed Governor Ben Ayade's visionary leadership disposition and sought to partner with the State Government in its resolve to bring economic development to its citizens and residents of the State.

Prof. Okwueze stated that the Igbo Community is very enthused and excited about the activities of the Governor Ben Ayade administration, especially in the giant industrialization and agricultural strides recorded so far.

The President-General, who branded Cross River as 'the Project State' because of the many projects littered across the State, expressed amazement at Governor Ayade's ability in prudently managing the State's resources, especially in the area of regular payment of salaries amid lean funds from the Federation account.

The Igbo Leader further called on Governor Ayade to expedite action in ensuring that the Bakassi Deep Seaport is brought to fruition, pointing out that Cross River State would soon witness a turnaround with the Port in place.

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AYADE MAGIC: 10 PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES READY FOR COMMISSIONING IN CROSS RIVER STATE- Dr. Betta Edu

In a bid to revitalise primary healthcare services and improve health indices of the people, 10 more refurbished and newly built state-of-the-art Health facilities across the State are awaiting Commissioning by His Excellency, Senator ( Prof ) Ben Ayade.

Some of the notable facilities awaiting commissioning are PHC ikot Edem odo, PHC Ikang, PHC wanihem, PHC wanikande, Comprehensive Health center UCHU Yache Amongt others

Speaking, DG CRSPHCDA, Dr Betta Edu said about 10 primary health centres had been constructed  and is ready for  commissioning across the three senatorial districts of the state by the Governor whose priority  is to revitalize the health sector to cater for the health need of the citizens particularly  pregnant women and children. 

She said the administration of His Excellency, Senator Prof. Ben Ayade is focusing on ensuring that the poor have access to qualitative and affordable health care services.

The DG further stressed that Governor Ayade has performed exceptionally well in the health sector, "even if Governor Ayade was to commission  one health facility every month, he will be unable to commission all he has built or renovated in his first term. That's another reason why he deserves reelection"!

"The goal of revitalizing the Primary Health Care Centres is to ensure that quality basic health care services are delivered to majority of Cross Riverians irrespective of their location in the State," she added.

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AYADE MAGIC: 10 PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES READY FOR COMMISSIONING IN CROSS RIVER STATE- Dr. Betta Edu

In a bid to revitalise primary healthcare services and improve health indices of the people, 10 more refurbished and newly built state-of-the-art Health facilities across the State are awaiting Commissioning by His Excellency, Senator ( Prof ) Ben Ayade.

Some of the notable facilities awaiting commissioning are PHC ikot Edem odo, PHC Ikang, PHC wanihem, PHC wanikande, Comprehensive Health center UCHU Yache Amongt others

Speaking, DG CRSPHCDA, Dr Betta Edu said about 10 primary health centres had been constructed  and is ready for  commissioning across the three senatorial districts of the state by the Governor whose priority  is to revitalize the health sector to cater for the health need of the citizens particularly  pregnant women and children. 

She said the administration of His Excellency, Senator Prof. Ben Ayade is focusing on ensuring that the poor have access to qualitative and affordable health care services.

The DG further stressed that Governor Ayade has performed exceptionally well in the health sector, "even if Governor Ayade was to commission  one health facility every month, he will be unable to commission all he has built or renovated in his first term. That's another reason why he deserves reelection"!

"The goal of revitalizing the Primary Health Care Centres is to ensure that quality basic health care services are delivered to majority of Cross Riverians irrespective of their location in the State," she added.

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300 Support Groups welcome Ayade back to Calabar after two weeks vacation

300 support groups in Cross River trooped out on Thursday 19th July 2018, to welcome Cross River Governor, Senator Ben Ayade on his return to the state after his two weeks annual vacation.

The mammoth crowd which consisted of over 300 support groups thronged the Margaret Ekpo International Airport and invited him to the Calabar Municipal council grounds where they called on him to declare his intention to run for a second term in office and declared support for his administration's policies and programs.

"All we are saying as a people, as groups is that please you seek for a second term," said Mr. Lebo Lebo who welcomed the governor on behalf of the thousands who had trooped out.

"In our numbers, we have all agreed that henceforth as a group of volunteers, we support all government policies, agenda and vision," Lebo said, adding that: "It is our agenda that we must go all out to ensure that as he responds to our clarion call of seeking for a second term, we must go back to our various constituents and communities to ensure that his response doesn't go in vain."

Governor Ayade had written to the House of Assembly informing them that he will be proceeding on a two week vacation with effect from July 2, 2018 leaving his deputy, Professor Ivara Esu in acting capacity

And, while addressing the crowd that welcomed him, he commended his deputy as well as the the support the residents had given him. 

He said: "I thank you very much for all the great support you have given to the acting governor, I cannot thank you enough. I came in from my vacation and I saw Calabar clean, green and beautiful. I saw a young team of people very committed to the state."

The governor who reaffirmed his administration's commitment to pursue a people centered agenda, averred that: "We have realised that there is no amount of infrastructural development that is above the destiny, the food on the table and the family government that brings young men and women to have access to governance. It is that catalytic profile that has brought about this large crowd that we see here."

He continued: "I want you to note this, if I was a politician, a traditional politician you know, I will be focusing on doing small things that will make me win elections.

"But, when I look at your future as we have more and more young people coming out of the university, where are they going to work?"

"I need to construct your future. That is why I decided to leave mundane politics and go ecclesiastical and celestial."

Earlier, Professor Esu commended the willingness of the crowd who braved the weather to give the governor a befitting welcome.

"Nobody forced you to come here. You came here on your own volition because of the love you have for your governor, because you believe in your governor. We welcome you and thank you for coming," Esu said and announced that he has formally handed over.

Several speakers took turns to extol the virtues of the governor and urged him to declare his intention to run for the 2019 gubernatorial elections.

The call for Ayade to declare for a second term in office comes on the heels of over over five dozen similar calls from political and non political groups, associations, individuals, unions and body corporates.

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300 Support Groups welcome Ayade back to Calabar after two weeks vacation

300 support groups in Cross River trooped out on Thursday 19th July 2018, to welcome Cross River Governor, Senator Ben Ayade on his return to the state after his two weeks annual vacation.

The mammoth crowd which consisted of over 300 support groups thronged the Margaret Ekpo International Airport and invited him to the Calabar Municipal council grounds where they called on him to declare his intention to run for a second term in office and declared support for his administration's policies and programs.

"All we are saying as a people, as groups is that please you seek for a second term," said Mr. Lebo Lebo who welcomed the governor on behalf of the thousands who had trooped out.

"In our numbers, we have all agreed that henceforth as a group of volunteers, we support all government policies, agenda and vision," Lebo said, adding that: "It is our agenda that we must go all out to ensure that as he responds to our clarion call of seeking for a second term, we must go back to our various constituents and communities to ensure that his response doesn't go in vain."

Governor Ayade had written to the House of Assembly informing them that he will be proceeding on a two week vacation with effect from July 2, 2018 leaving his deputy, Professor Ivara Esu in acting capacity

And, while addressing the crowd that welcomed him, he commended his deputy as well as the the support the residents had given him. 

He said: "I thank you very much for all the great support you have given to the acting governor, I cannot thank you enough. I came in from my vacation and I saw Calabar clean, green and beautiful. I saw a young team of people very committed to the state."

The governor who reaffirmed his administration's commitment to pursue a people centered agenda, averred that: "We have realised that there is no amount of infrastructural development that is above the destiny, the food on the table and the family government that brings young men and women to have access to governance. It is that catalytic profile that has brought about this large crowd that we see here."

He continued: "I want you to note this, if I was a politician, a traditional politician you know, I will be focusing on doing small things that will make me win elections.

"But, when I look at your future as we have more and more young people coming out of the university, where are they going to work?"

"I need to construct your future. That is why I decided to leave mundane politics and go ecclesiastical and celestial."

Earlier, Professor Esu commended the willingness of the crowd who braved the weather to give the governor a befitting welcome.

"Nobody forced you to come here. You came here on your own volition because of the love you have for your governor, because you believe in your governor. We welcome you and thank you for coming," Esu said and announced that he has formally handed over.

Several speakers took turns to extol the virtues of the governor and urged him to declare his intention to run for the 2019 gubernatorial elections.

The call for Ayade to declare for a second term in office comes on the heels of over over five dozen similar calls from political and non political groups, associations, individuals, unions and body corporates.

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Christy is 3 years old

Like yesterday I clearly remember when I thought it was a dead small dog lying on a dirty veranda. I told the state nutrition officer who was with me on a community sweep seeking for malnourished children, that we will not go into that compound because I don't want any rabies infected dog to bite me since one was dead already another could be by the side. 

God had you in mind Christy it was your day for rescue! "My SNO said no madam, that is a dying child not a dead dog" we were 2 compounds away! The minute I heard dying child, my blood ran cold and I walked over to her. At first I wondered how a woman will let her child die in her very face, until I met the mother who was only a teeneger and was equally strugling to stay alive, I knew immediately that this was the real reason God brought me there, to save Christy and her teenage mother Esther - Dr Betta Edu

This is the story of A young girl, Christy who overpowered severe malnutrition courtesy of the divine intervention of Dr Betta Edu who God used in rescuing her 3 years back. 

The girl with bones sticking out of her ribs generated sympathy around the State with a few persons notably Mr Richard Akinaka, volunteering to support care for their needs and education. The two have been through several hospital admissions in the build back process but we are happy for progress made so far.

Now, that girl is so beautiful, strong and healthy. The malnourished girl, who survived severe pains as a child, is gradually gaining her footing in society, She is now grown and has turned into a beautiful young child. But asides the beauty, she's also got brains and very smart. She hardly smiles...May be life didn't smile at her at birth.

Presently, she is in nursery school. According to the teenage mother who is also enrolled in a secondary school, she dreams of little Christy and her becoming  a medical doctor so the can help other kids who are currently going through what she went through all those years.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRISTY!!!

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Christy is 3 years old

Like yesterday I clearly remember when I thought it was a dead small dog lying on a dirty veranda. I told the state nutrition officer who was with me on a community sweep seeking for malnourished children, that we will not go into that compound because I don't want any rabies infected dog to bite me since one was dead already another could be by the side. 

God had you in mind Christy it was your day for rescue! "My SNO said no madam, that is a dying child not a dead dog" we were 2 compounds away! The minute I heard dying child, my blood ran cold and I walked over to her. At first I wondered how a woman will let her child die in her very face, until I met the mother who was only a teeneger and was equally strugling to stay alive, I knew immediately that this was the real reason God brought me there, to save Christy and her teenage mother Esther - Dr Betta Edu

This is the story of A young girl, Christy who overpowered severe malnutrition courtesy of the divine intervention of Dr Betta Edu who God used in rescuing her 3 years back. 

The girl with bones sticking out of her ribs generated sympathy around the State with a few persons notably Mr Richard Akinaka, volunteering to support care for their needs and education. The two have been through several hospital admissions in the build back process but we are happy for progress made so far.

Now, that girl is so beautiful, strong and healthy. The malnourished girl, who survived severe pains as a child, is gradually gaining her footing in society, She is now grown and has turned into a beautiful young child. But asides the beauty, she's also got brains and very smart. She hardly smiles...May be life didn't smile at her at birth.

Presently, she is in nursery school. According to the teenage mother who is also enrolled in a secondary school, she dreams of little Christy and her becoming  a medical doctor so the can help other kids who are currently going through what she went through all those years.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRISTY!!!

Read More