Detailing News

A new wave of commendation has swept through the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) following the recent staff-focused initiative spearheaded by the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey.  The UNICROSS Alumni Association has applauded the Vice Chancellor for what it described as a groundbreaking and people-centred leadership approach, particularly in the area of staff welfare. The association expressed delight over the introduction of a dedicated “Staff Week” a first in the university’s history, which featured a range of activities designed to celebrate and uplift the workforce. These activities included wellness talks, medical screenings, a fitness walk, a novelty football match, awards, and a staff dinner. Speaking with Detailing News, Dr. (Mrs.) Peace Egbai, Acting Head of the Department of Broadcasting and National Public Relations Officer of the UNICROSS Alumni Association, described the initiative as a bold and commendable move that has repositione...

  …Describes the Akpabuyo Chairman as a rare blend of youthful charisma, purposeful leadership, and unwavering loyalty The Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, has showered heartfelt birthday wishes on the Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Hon. (Prince) Effiom Bassey Effiong, describing him as “one of the most promising young leaders of our time, a man whose charisma and character continue to leave footprints across the corridors of leadership and friendship.” In a glowing tribute released on Sunday, Barr. Agbor extolled the Akpabuyo Council boss, whom he described as “a beacon of youthful excellence, a symbol of sincere brotherhood, and a leader whose rising star is only beginning to shine in its full brilliance.” “Prince Effiong is not just a public office holder; he is a force of nature — vibrant, charismatic, deeply rooted in his people, and committed to purpose. Since our paths crossed, he has red...

   Banjul, The Gambia,  July 25, 2025 — Emmanuel Onwuka, a Cross River Born journalist and publisher of Parallel News, has won the first prize for online journalism at the inaugural Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Media Excellence Awards. The prestigious event was held in Banjul, The Gambia, as part of the 50th-anniversary celebration of ECOWAS, drawing entries from journalists across West Africa. Onwuka’s entry was commended for its depth, relevance, and impact in promoting accountability, regional development, and digital storytelling in West Africa. Other award categories included television, radio, and print journalism. The ECOWAS Media Excellence Awards were established to celebrate journalists whose work strengthens unity, democracy, and socio-economic growth in the region. Emmanuel Onwuka’s recognition is a proud moment for Nigeria and underscores the rising influence of online journalism in shaping public discourse. Emmanuel Onwuka was born in C...

By Paddy Tom, Ph.D In a decisive move aimed at addressing environmental degradation and safeguarding the welfare of rural communities, the House Committee on Environment, chaired by Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, convened a high-level intervention meeting yesterday with key stakeholders to resolve ongoing issues arising from mining activities in the Agoi Ekpo community of Yakurr Local Government Area. The meeting, held in response to a petition submitted by the Onyadama and other neighbouring communities in Ofat ward, brought together representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment, community leaders from Ofat Ward in Obubra Local Government Area, and executives of Arit Gray Nigeria Ltd, the major mining company operating in the area. The company’s Managing Director, Mr. George Ubong, led the delegation from Arit Gray, accompanied by senior officials. The Onyadama communities petition detailed the devastating impact of unchecked mining operations on the only surviving source of clean wa...

The Media Team of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke PhD, Commissioner representing Cross River State at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, has joined friends, colleagues, and associates to celebrate him on the occasion of his birthday today, 24th July 2025. In a series of goodwill messages, the team and other well-wishers extolled Dr Duke’s leadership qualities, achievements, and contributions to humanity, describing him as a visionary public servant and exceptional leader. Kelvin Obambon described him as “a great scholar, political avatar, community leader and consummate democrat,” wishing him continued favour and blessings in the years ahead. Josephine Effanga celebrated his “inspiring journey of excellence, kindness, and unwavering dedication,” adding that his life has touched countless people through his wisdom and generosity. David Effiong Ekarika prayed for wisdom, strength, grace and long life, describing him as an inspiring figure and an unwavering support to many. Dr J. I. ...

  By Uket Oka, Calabar  The Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), has been commended for empowering Cross River youths with cutting-edge knowledge in satellite technology and digital communication. The state governor, Prince Bassey Otu, made the commendation, Monday, while declaring a 5-day NIGCOMSAT Youth empowerment workshop organised by NIGCOMSAT in collaboration with the Cross River State Government through the state Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, held at the University of Calabar. Otu, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Justin Antisng Beshel, expressed optimism that the workshop with the theme: “Building grassroots innovation in satellite technology,” would foster innovation, enhance technical skills and create opportunities for the youths in the ever-evolving space-tech industry. He noted that the state’s collaboration with the Nigerian Communication Satellite Ltd is providing the state gov...

The President of the Postgraduate Students’ Government (PGSG) at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Comrade Ewelu Otu Okoi, has stirred admiration and emotion across social circles following a moving birthday tribute to his only sister, Mrs. Blessing Etim Abam, on July 21, 2025. In a powerful and personal message, Comrade Ewelu celebrated his sister not just as a sibling, but as a pillar of strength, a role model, and a mother figure who played a defining role in shaping his life.  His tribute was filled with expressions of gratitude, deep reflection, and admiration, drawing attention to the values she instilled in him. "Happy Birthday to the only sister I have and the best one anyone could ever ask for," he began. "Today, I’m not just celebrating your life... I’m honoring all the sacrifices, love, and strength you've poured into me." He recounted how she took responsibility for him at the age of 13, raising him with love and discipline during the m...

  The Obom Itiat Ikoneto Clan Council in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State has condemned the detention of one of its sons, Mr. Archibong Essien, describing it as unlawful and unjust. Mr. Essien is currently being held at the Afokang Correctional Facility in Calabar over allegations of making statements capable of inciting native war between the Ikoneto community and its neighbours. In a statement signed by Etubom Asuquo Bassey Etim, the clan said it was shocked by the circumstances surrounding Essien’s detention, maintaining that the community is unaware of any such statements attributed to him. “We categorically state that we are not aware of any such statement made by Mr. Essien. As a law-abiding community, we value peaceful coexistence and harmonious relations with our neighbours,” the statement read. The clan emphasised that Ikoneto has no existing conflict with neighbouring communities, and that residents go about their daily activities peacefully. “We believ...

  Comrade Archibong Bassey of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) has been re-elected unopposed as Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, at the 2025 Triennial Delegates Conference held in Calabar. The election, conducted on Wednesday at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre, saw five other executive members returned unopposed, reaffirming the confidence of the state’s journalism community in their leadership. The new executive is expected to serve a full three-year term, ending in 2028. Joining Bassey in the new leadership are Comrade Sunday Inah as Vice Chairperson, Comrade Michael Abang as Secretary, Comrade Kingsley Agim as Assistant Secretary, Comrade Achiane Adams as Treasurer, and Comrade Benedine Tete Anam as Auditor. The elected officials, drawn from various reputable media establishments and ministries, were ratified following a smooth, transparent process overseen by the union’s electoral committee. The election was superv...

  The Acting Head of the Department of Broadcasting at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Dr. (Mrs.) Peace Egbai, has congratulated Professor Francisca Bassey on her confirmation as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution. Professor Bassey’s appointment was approved by the Visitor to the University and Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, following a rigorous selection process overseen by the University’s Governing Council. In her congratulatory message, Dr. Egbai praised the Vice Chancellor for what she described as a brilliant and outstanding performance during the selection process, stating that Professor Bassey had proven to be the right person for the job. She further stated some of the notable achievements already recorded by Prof. Bassey in her short time as Acting Vice Chancellor, saying they are clear indications of her capability, commitment, and leadership strength. “Her confirmation is well-deserved. She has demonstrat...

 ‎ ‎The President of UNICROSS Postgraduate Students Government  (PGSG) Comrade Ewelu, Otu Okoi ( Great Ewelu ) has Congratulated Professor Francisca Bassey on Her Emergence as Substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution. ‎ Describing her appointment as a dream come true, the PGSG President noted that it had long been the earnest desire of postgraduate students to see Professor Bassey confirmed as VC. "Today, that prayer has become reality, and we couldn’t be more proud," he stated. ‎He added that the postgraduate students have great confidence in her leadership, believing that the university is in safe and visionary hands. "Your emergence brings hope, and we are optimistic that UNICROSS will witness a new season of growth and transformation," the President said. ‎He further pledged the full support of the postgraduate students to her administration, expressing Assurance to working together to make the university a more conducive and progressive space for all. ‎

  Hon. Orok Otu Duke Ph.D, the Cross River State representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has taken to social media to celebrate two significant academic achievements within his nuclear and extended families, a trait which reflects his long-standing commitment to family, mentorship, and community support. In a pair of touching tributes posted on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday and Thursday, Dr. Duke first congratulated Amayo Orok Duke, his daughter, for her remarkable academic feat of earning multiple advanced degrees from prestigious institutions in the United Kingdom. “The parents, family, and community get elated and excited when their masquerade dances very well in the market square,” he wrote with poetic pride. “Amayo Orok Duke, well done!” Amayo’s academic résumé includes a Bachelor of Arts from Royal Holloway, University of London, and three master’s degrees from the University of Westminster, Goldsmiths College, University of Lon...

  The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Alumni Association has hailed the appointment of Prof. Francisca Bassey as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the University. Prof. Bassey, initially appointed as Acting VC in January 2025, was confirmed as substantive on Thursday, July 17, 2025, as announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh. Her confirmation follows the recommendation of the Governing Council after a recent of interview.  In a statement by the Spokesperson of the association, Dr. Peace Egbai who is also the Head of Department of Broadcasting in the University, the association described the appointment as one of the best things to happen to the university in recent times. Expressing appreciation to the university’s Visitor, Governor Bassey Otu, the alumni emphasized that Prof. Bassey’s accomplishments during her tenure in acting capacity made her the ideal candidate for the role. “We heartily congratulate Prof. Francisca Bassey o...

  The Head of the Department of Mass Communication and Member of the Governing Council of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Dr. Victor Ndifon, has extended his congratulations to Professor Francisca Bassey on her recent appointment as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the university. In a message issued on Monday, Dr. Ndifon described Professor Bassey’s appointment as a well-deserved recognition of her longstanding commitment to academic excellence, integrity, and visionary leadership. “Your elevation to this esteemed position is a testament to your dedication to the growth of the academic community and your impressive track record in research, administration, and mentorship,” he stated. He expressed optimism that the new Vice Chancellor’s leadership would usher in a new era of innovation, inclusiveness, and institutional stability, which are essential for the ongoing transformation of the university. “At this pivotal time in the life of the university, I have no dou...

  Cross River State Governor and Visitor to the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the appointment of Professor Francisca Bassey as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution. Her appointment, which takes immediate effect, was based on the recommendation of the University’s Governing Council following what official sources described as a rigorous, transparent and merit-based selection process. Professor Bassey, a seasoned academic, administrator, and researcher, brings over three decades of experience in higher education. A distinguished alumna of the University of Calabar, she has served in various leadership positions including Head of Department, Dean, and Deputy Vice Chancellor. According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Governor Otu’s approval reaffirms his administration’s commitment to competence, meritocracy, and the strategic positioning of Cross Riverians i...

   By Dr. John Egbe As we stand on the frontlines, courageously confronting the surgical giants and monsters that threaten our patients' lives, we humbly implore for divine intervention. We ask for an abundance of grace, wisdom, strength, and good health to sustain us in this noble pursuit. May our selfless devotion and unwavering commitment to healing be recognized and valued. We toil tirelessly, shouldering the weight of a crumbling system, as the stark reality of Nigeria's 1:9,083 doctor-to-patient ratio stares us in the face. The mathematics is brutal, the impact devastating. Our workload is a crushing burden, our remuneration a mere trickle. Yet, we persevere, driven by an unyielding passion for healing and a deep commitment to our patients. We cry out to the powers that be: Hear our plea! Recognize our sacrifices! Let our compensation reflect the depth of our dedication and the breadth of our responsibilities. May our voices echo through the corridors of power, stirring ...

  By Josephine Jesam  The second session of the 12th Synod of the Diocese of Calabar will officially commence on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, and run through Sunday, July 20, 2025, with delegates and clergy gathering under the theme “…Image which thou hast set up” —Daniel 3:18 The Rt. Rev. (Prof) Nneoyi Onen Egbe, Bishop of the Diocese of Calabar, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has issued a passionate call to the Federal Government to urgently restore justice, truth, and national values as the only viable path to reclaiming Nigeria from what he described as “institutional decay and national death.” Speaking during a press conference held Monday at St. Jude Anglican Church, Effiong Eke Nta Street, Calabar, to herald the second session of the 12th Synod of the diocese, Bishop Egbe anchored his message on the Synod’s theme: “…Image which thou hast set up” (Daniel 3:18), calling it a timely reflection of the false systems currently propped up across Nigeria. “The Nigerian na...

  By AMAWU Cletus Albert Amawu. The Cross River State Cooperative Stakeholders Association marked the 2025 International Day of Cooperatives in grand style in Calabar, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare and Community Development. The celebration coincided with the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive grassroots development. The occasion also served as a platform to formally endorse Governor Senator Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu for a second term in 2027. Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for Social Welfare and Community Development, Archbishop Professor Margaret Ene-Ita JP, offered a resounding message of hope. “It is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it. Before the next Cooperative Day, you will have received your empowerment,” she declared. She underlined the government’s strategic focus on cooperatives as essential vehicles for inclusive, sustainable econom...

  Dr. Betta Edu has bemoaned the demise of Nigeria's former President, Muhammadu Buhari,  describes him as a just man and  dignity who had the love and admiration of millions of Nigerians. In a condolence message to the Buhari family, which she personally signed, Dr. Edu described the former president's passing as painful, shocking, and a monumental national loss. According to Dr. Edu, "the passing of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, is a great loss to Nigeria. His shocking and painful  demise has plunged the country into mourning and grief. "His death is a monumental national loss which has brought about deep sorrow and pain not only to his immediate family and close associates, but also to the entire nation" Dr Edu extolled Buhari's sterling virtues while alive and stressed that "he was indeed a symbol of strength and dignity. "He was a very firm and decisive leader!" "President Buhari was a just man; a great leade...

  The Cross River State Government (CRSG) has joined other states and stakeholders in the Niger Delta region to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), applauding the commission for its unwavering commitment to regional development, especially in the areas of infrastructure, social services, and the empowerment of youth and women across the state. Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, led the Cross River State delegation and made the remarks while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the NDDC 25th Anniversary Plenary Session, held on Saturday at the Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Saturday.  “The good people of Cross River State join the rest of the Niger Delta in celebrating this momentous occasion of the NDDC,” Odey stated. “Over the past 25 years, the Commission has made notable strides in transforming lives of citizens in Cross Ri...

  The Nigerian Senate has passed the bill for the establishment of the Federal University of Technology, Odukpani, sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who represents the Southern Senatorial District of Cross River State. The bill was passed during Thursday’s plenary session under the leadership of the President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio. It scaled through its third and final reading, signaling strong legislative backing for the long-anticipated institution. Reacting to the development, Senator Ekpenyong expressed profound appreciation to his colleagues for their support.  He stated that, upon presidential assent by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the bill would bridge a gap of over fifty years in the establishment of a federal university in Cross River State. “This landmark bill will serve as a powerful complement to the bold strides already being taken by the Cross River State Government to broaden access to quality education for our people,” he s...

  As the clock ticks toward the next general election, the political pot in Nigeria is beginning to simmer. Whispers of a grand coalition are swirling through the air, like the Harmattan wind before a storm. The target? None other than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the political juggernaut who rode the crest of the APC wave into Aso Rock in 2023. But now, questions loom like dark clouds on the horizon. Can this patchwork of parties and power players truly shake the foundations of Tinubu’s incumbency? Or is this just another case of too many cooks spoiling the political broth? Tinubu is no stranger to the game. A lion in Lagos and a strategist of no small repute, he knows how to play the long game and win. His web of loyalists stretches across the country, and though his tenure has not been without turmoil, marked by economic hardship and rising insecurity, his grip on power is still firm. To unseat such a seasoned operator would require not just fire, but focus. And here lies the ru...

The two pioneer female chairmen of NUJ, Grace Ike of the FCT chapter; and Archibong Etim Bassey of the Cross River State chapter; are among distinguished Nigerians listed in the 2025 edition of Changemakers: 100 Nigerians Leading Change.  In a statement by the editors, Kammonke Abam and Steve Ogah, the two journalists were listed for their outstanding career, and for breaking the glass ceiling of the leadership of NUJ by emerging the first female chairmen of their respective chapters.  Ike is an unwavering journalist, fervent advocate for inclusive reporting and beacon of professionalism. She has successfully navigated various beats and remains poised to emerge as a prominent voice in the media industry. She is regarded as an authority in legislative reportings with over 10 years of her sixteen years of media practice in the coverage of the House of Representatives. She  is a seasoned correspondent at ADBN TV ( Advocate Broadcasting TV) and served as the first female Chai...

The Mike Etaba Foundation (MEF) was officially launched on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the Ofodua Commercial Secondary School, Obubra, in a ceremony that drew dignitaries, stakeholders, traditional rulers, community leaders, and students from across the local government area. The event marked a significant milestone in the foundation’s mission to promote education, charity, and community development. The Mike Etaba Foundation is a self-sponsored, charitable and hospitality-driven initiative established by a group of passionate supporters of Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, aimed at consolidating and extending the philanthropic vision of their principal. The foundation was born out of a collective desire to give back to society in appreciation of Hon. Etaba’s unwavering support and numerous interventions across the constituencies. MEF is committed to promoting education, youth empowerment, health awareness, and social welfare through grassroots initiatives. The major highlights of the event included:...

  Governor Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the comprehensive recovery of Cross River State’s public assets, describing the effort as a cornerstone for rebuilding the state’s economic foundation and restoring public confidence in governance. Speaking during the 7th State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting held on Wednesday at the Governor’s Office in Calabar, Governor Otu commended the Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, for his “focused and painstaking” approach in reclaiming government-owned properties that had been misappropriated or abandoned. “The recovery of our state assets is well underway,” the governor stated. “Let me extend my deep appreciation to the Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, for his resilience and commitment to duty. His work has brought to light several hidden but valuable assets belonging to the state. You don’t need to look far to know who is per...

  RICHARD NDOMA, Calabar  The women and youths of Bendeghe Ekiem community in Etung local government  area in Cross River State have given the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Johnson Ebokpo, a 14-day ultimatum to rescind on the planned privatization  of  government-controlled estate or be ready to see the women go necked to dance round the cocoa plantation. The community Women and youths issued the threat during the Friday's  protest organized by the  community youths and women to express their displeasure over the issue. In a separate interview on the issue, Bendeghe Ekiem community women leader Ntunkai Mary Obi, and the women chief, chief Helen Ogar, charged the commissioner to reach out to the leaders of  their community  to dialogue on the issue to enable them know the next line of action on the issue. "Starting from today, We have given 2 weeks ultimatum to the commissioner  for Agriculture, to get back to us after this prot...