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Sports Is Nigeria's Greatest Weapon Against Drug Abuse – Orok Duke

  CALABAR, – Prominent sports administrator and Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club , Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke , has identified sports as Nigeria's most potent weapon in the fight against drug abuse, urging governments, corporate organisations, and community leaders to invest more in youth-focused sporting programmes as a strategy for preventing substance abuse. Speaking in a statement to mark the 2026 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking , Duke who represents Cross River State in the Niger Delta Development Commission , said meaningful engagement through sports provides young people with purpose, discipline, and opportunities that reduce their vulnerability to drug abuse and other social vices. According to him, the battle against drug abuse cannot be won through law enforcement alone but requires sustained investments in youth development, education, mentorship, and recreational activities. "Sports is Nigeria's greatest weapon against drug abuse....
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Politics, Sports, and Power: Orok Duke’s Dual Role in C'River Table Tennis Ecosystem

  In Cross River State's sporting world, table tennis is not just seen as a sport played in school halls and community centres. It has become a structure of influence, development, as one of the few sports tha brings laurels and glory to the state. Having produced renowned stars keep representing the state and nation at  both national and  international  platforms. At the centre of this structure is Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, a figure whose presence in the game goes far beyond administrative titles or ceremonial appearances. For many years, Duke has been closely associated with the Canaan Table Tennis Club in Calabar, in fact he founded the club and has funded it since inception. The club is widely recognised for producing some of the state’s most consistent athletes. Through that platform, Cross River has built a reputation for competitiveness in national, regional championships and even international events with players emerging to represent Nigeria at higher levels. ...

Abakpa Road, Head Bridge Transformed as Governor Otu Delivers Infrastructure Upgrade

  The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, has successfully completed the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Abakpa Road and Head Bridge, transforming the area with a modern and improved outlook. The completion of this critical infrastructure project underscores the Governor's commitment to sustainable development, improved road networks, and enhanced living conditions for residents of Abakpa and the wider Cross River State. The upgraded road and bridge are expected to ease transportation, boost economic activities, and improve connectivity within the community. Special commendation goes to the Cross River State Ministry of Works, led by Hon.Ankpo Pius Edet for the timely execution and successful delivery of this quality infrastructure project. This achievement reflects the administration's determination to build a more connected, accessible, and prosperous Cross River State.

THE CONSTRUCTION OF MKPANI–AGOI ABAMI ROAD FROM THE CALABAR–UGEP–IKOM HIGHWAY

  The Bassey Edet Otu -led government of Cross River State has commenced the construction of the long-neglected and dilapidated Mkpani–Agoi Abami Road , which links communities along the Calabar–Ugep–Ikom Highway . This important infrastructure project demonstrates the administration's unwavering commitment to improving road connectivity, enhancing economic activities, and promoting the welfare of residents across the state. The construction of the Mkpani–Agoi Abami Road is expected to ease transportation challenges, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the benefiting communities. This project is another clear testament to the dedication of His Excellency, Apostle Senator Bassey Edet Otu , to delivering meaningful development and improving the quality of life for the people of Cross River State. Bravo to the cross river state ministry of works under the able leadership of Hon Pius Edet for ensuring swift d...

Duke Calls for Policies to Strengthen Responsible Parenting

  The Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Otuekong Orok Otu Duke, PhD , has called on governments at all levels to formulate and implement policies that promote responsible parenting and strengthen family values across the country. Duke made the call in a message commemorating this year's Father's Day celebration, where he emphasized the critical role parents, particularly fathers, play in shaping the moral, social, and economic future of society. According to him, fatherhood extends beyond the provision of basic needs and encompasses mentoring, nurturing, protecting, and instilling values that help raise responsible and productive citizens. He noted that strong families remain the foundation of stable communities and prosperous nations, stressing that governments and institutions must create enabling environments that support parents in effectively carrying out their responsibilities. "Fatherhood is a sacred ...

THE 17KM BOKI EAST–WEST ROAD NOW A REALITY

The Cross River State Government , under the leadership of His Excellency, Bassey Edet Otu , has commenced the construction of the long-awaited 17-kilometre Boki East–West Road , a project that has remained a major demand of the people of Boki for many years.  The road project is expected to improve connectivity between communities, ease the transportation of agricultural produce, stimulate economic activities, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents across the area.  The project, which forms part of the administration's commitment to rural development and infrastructure renewal, will link several communities including, Ikom–Obudu Highway . Upon completion, it will significantly reduce transportation challenges and open up economic opportunities for farmers, traders, and businesses in the region.  This landmark development demonstrates the government's resolve to fulfill its promises and bring meaningful development to the people of Boki and Cross River St...

Make Nigeria Your Second Country,UN Envoy, Jimoh Ibrahim Tells Dominican Students In New York

  Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Chairman of the UN Budget Committee, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim , has urged students from the Dominican Republic to make Nigeria their second country, describing the nation as a land of opportunity and growing global relevance. Ambassador Ibrahim made the call while hosting a delegation of Dominican students at the Nigeria Permanent Mission House in New York, where he engaged them in discussions on diplomacy, education, foreign policy, development, and Africa’s role in global affairs. According to a statement signed by his media office, the envoy encouraged the students to look beyond stereotypes and gain a deeper understanding of Africa, noting that the continent’s vast human and natural resources remain central to global development. He said Nigeria continues to play a leading role in Africa through institutions such as the , the Economic Community of West Africa States(ECOWAS), Africa Union(AU) and the United Nations (...