Detailing News

  The Cross River State Ministry of Water Resources, in collaboration with the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWATSSA), Self Help Africa (SHA), and the Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN), has inaugurated the Obubra Local Government Area Task Group on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (LTG-WASH) to strengthen WASH governance and service delivery at the grassroots level.  The three-day inauguration programme was held at the Obubra Local Government Council Secretariat.  Declaring the event open, the Chairman of the State Task Group on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (STG-WASH), Dr Okon Ita, said the event is "aimed towards system strengthening considering the LGA’s WASH status.” He noted that no meaningful development can be achieved without “LTG-WASH”.  The STG-WASH chairman called on the members of the task group in Obubra to serve with both hands on deck.  Dr Ita, represented by Engr Eni Nkanu, a director in the Ministry of Water Resources, pledged ...

  The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree by Modibbo Adama University, Yola, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to governance and public service. Congratulating the Governor on the well-deserved honour, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South, described the award as a fitting tribute to Governor Otu’s far-reaching impact in leadership and his commitment to the development of Cross River State. On behalf of the people of Cross River South, Senator Ekpenyong extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Governor and wished him continued strength, wisdom, and grace as he advances the growth and progress of the state. The honorary degree further underscores Governor Otu’s growing national recognition as a visionary leader dedicated to effective governance and public service excellence.

  -By Orok Otu Duke  The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has reaffirmed the coastal status of Cross River State and its seaward littoral access to the Atlantic Ocean through the Cross River Estuary, as reflected in official maps and publications. This confirmation was made during a national workshop on the creation of platforms for Nigeria’s coastal states and local government areas, held in Asaba, Delta State, on 13 November 2024.  The workshop was organized by the National Boundary Commission and addressed by its Director-General, Surveyor Adamu A. Adaji. Cross River State was officially represented at the workshop by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, underscoring the state’s formal participation in national coastal and maritime governance discussions. During the workshop, Cross River State was expressly listed among Nigeria’s coastal states, alongside Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States. The classification places Cross River St...

  By Kingsley Agim The Cross River State Special Adviser Forum has commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for approving a salary increase for political appointees, describing the move as timely and reflective of responsive, people-oriented leadership. The commendation was contained in a jointly signed statement issued on Thursday by the Chairman of the Forum and Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba, and the Secretary of the Forum and Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barrister Gilbert Agbor. According to the Forum, the salary adjustment demonstrates Governor Otu’s clear understanding of prevailing economic realities and his commitment to the welfare, motivation, and dignity of political appointees who support the implementation of government policies and programmes. The statement noted that the governor’s decision has boosted morale within the political leadership structure and is expected to enhance productivity, ...

  On behalf of the Cross River State Family Planning Advocacy and Technical Working Group, I wish to express our profound appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his visionary leadership and commitment to the health and wellbeing of our people. We are particularly grateful for your strong support for domestic financing of family planning, as demonstrated through the Government Cash Counterpart Contribution, which culminated in the investment of 22 million in 2025 for the procurement of family planning commodities. This laudable commitment, formally handed over today, by UNFPA Nigeria through the Cross River Sub-Office Head of Office, Dr. Andrew Kirima, to the Cross River State Ministry of Health, marks a significant milestone in our collective journey toward sustainable healthcare financing. Your Excellency, this 'sweet' support would not only impact access to quality and lifesaving reproductive health s...

The Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, on Sunday, January 25, 2026, hosted a delegation of local government chairmen and other senior government officials in furtherance of efforts to strengthen the ongoing All Progressives Congress (APC) electronic registration (e-registration) exercise across the state. The delegation was led by the Chairman of the Forum of Local Government Chairmen in Cross River State and Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area, Hon. Yibala Inyang. It also included the Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Hon. Bassey Effiom Effiong, alongside other key government functionaries. The visit, which took place at Barr. Agbor’s Etomi country home in Etung Local Government Area, was aimed at deepening grassroots mobilisation, fostering stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and ensuring the success of the APC e-registration exercise in Etung LGA and adjoining communities. Speaking at the ...

  It has become trendy in recent times for attention-seeking social media commentators to substitute noise for knowledge, outrage for investigation, and conjecture for facts. The latest social media outburst by one MC Okrika against the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, sadly fits this pattern and deserves a calm but firm response grounded in verifiable records. First, it must be clearly stated that governance in Cross River State is not conducted on Facebook timelines or through viral rants. The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is focused on deliberate, data-driven governance, particularly in the health sector, where reforms are being executed in clearly defined phases. Attempts to reduce such structured governance to cheap social media theatrics only expose the intellectual laziness of the critic. The first two years of the Otu administration were deliberately devoted to the revitalisation of primary healthcare, the foundation of any func...

  The attention of the Media Office of Hon. Peter Akpanke, Member representing Obudu/Obanliku/Bekwarra Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has been drawn to misleading and mischievous allegations circulating on social media concerning purported contract racketeering. Ordinarily, such baseless claims would be disregarded. However, to prevent the spread of misinformation and safeguard the integrity of public discourse, we deem it necessary to set the record straight with the following facts: 2. Prior to his election to the House of Representatives in 2023, Hon. Akpanke was a reputable and established contractor who successfully won and executed multiple projects for both federal and state governments. His primary business model involved acquiring and executing contracts from other awardees who lacked the capacity or resources to deliver. 3. Upon assuming public office, Hon. Akpanke fully complied with extant laws prohibiting public office holders from engaging in ac...

  There was visible excitement in Mkpani, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, as heavy-duty bulldozers moved in to commence construction of a 2-kilometre ring road linking the Aduma, Afaben, and Ajere communities. The project was officially launched by Senator Eteng Williams, representing the Cross River Central Senatorial District, in a strategic move aimed at strengthening rural infrastructure and improving the quality of life for residents. The presence of construction equipment has been met with widespread enthusiasm from constituents as the road is expected to significantly ease transportation, facilitate easier market access for farmers, and accelerate urban development within the area. The new ring road complements the ongoing Mkpani–Agoi Road project being executed by the Cross River State Government and is projected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth. By easing transportation challenges, the road will improve access to markets, boost agricultural pro...

  The Cross River State Representative on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, PhD, attended the traditional marriage ceremony of the daughter of former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke on Thursday at his residence in Calabar. Speaking at the event, Duke congratulated the family, saying, “It’s a joy to celebrate this wonderful union. I wish the couple a lifetime of love, laughter, and shared success.” Hon. Duke described marriage as a cornerstone for building strong families and communities, emphasising that occasions like this strengthen social ties and inspire unity within society. He also commended the Duke family for hosting a well-organised event that reflected both elegance and cultural pride. The ceremony drew family, friends, and dignitaries as they gathered to witness and celebrate the union, making it a colourful and joyous occasion that highlighted love, tradition, and the close bonds within the Duke family.

By Staff Reporter An aide to the Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Comrade Richie Romanus, has taken to social media to spotlight what he described as the people-oriented interventions of Senator Eteng Jones Williams, particularly in the health and water sectors across the district. In a Facebook post titled “The Senator Eteng Jones Williams I Know – Part 1,” Romanus recounted the Senator’s 2025 Christmas tour of the district, noting that hospital visits were deliberately prioritised. According to him, Senator Williams repeatedly stressed that clearing hospital bills for indigent patients gave him deep personal fulfilment, especially as beneficiaries often lacked the means to formally return to express gratitude. Romanus said members of the tour team witnessed the Senator’s “unusual excitement” each time hospital bills were settled, describing him as a leader who is  moved by the pain of others and committed to easing human suffering. He further disclose...

  The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has cautioned the media and the public against what it described as a “trial by media” in the ongoing legal proceedings involving a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Mike Agbedor Ozekhome. In a statement  issued on Tuesday and signed by its National Spokesperson, Bedford Berefa Benjamin,the IYC said it was disturbed by “sensational narratives” and selective reportage surrounding the case, warning that such coverage could amount to reputational assassination. The group stressed that Ozekhome, a professor of law and human rights advocate, remains presumed innocent under Nigerian and international law until proven otherwise by a court of competent jurisdiction. “Presumption of innocence is not optional. Attempts to pronounce guilt through media headlines, leaked proofs of evidence and selective interpretation of court documents are unacceptable and dangerous to the rule of law,” the statement read. The IYC further noted that the filing of ...

  A civil society group, the Youth Society for the Prevention of Infectious Diseases and Social Vices (YOSPIS), has condemned the killing of a woman and her six children in Dorayi, Kano State, describing the incident as “barbaric” and a grave violation of human life. In a statement  signed by the Executive Director of YOSPIS, Zainab Nasir Ahmad. at the  weekend, said the attack was “deeply disturbing” and called on authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. YOSPIS also expressed condolences to the bereaved family and the Dorayi community, noting that the incident had shaken public conscience and highlighted rising violence in society. The group commended the Kano State Police Command for the swift arrest of suspects and urged a thorough, transparent, and expedited investigation. “Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, to restore public confidence and serve as a deterrent,” the statement read. Beyond the immediate crime, YOSPIS...

  By Detailing News Despite the growing demand for loud political branding in Nigeria’s democratic space, Hon. Joseph ‘Papa’ Bassey, Member representing Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency, has continued to chart a different course—one defined by quiet service, people-oriented interventions, and measurable impact. In just two years at the House of Representatives, Hon. Bassey has demonstrated capacity across key sectors, even though many of his achievements remain largely unknown to the public due to limited publicity and his reserved political style. A thorough fact-finding exercise by Detailing News has confirmed several verifiable projects and interventions facilitated by the lawmaker across the ABC Federal Constituency. Hon. Bassey facilitated the establishment of a fully equipped ICT Centre at Government Science School, Mayne Avenue, significantly enhancing digital learning opportunities for students. In the area of scholarships and educational support, he faci...

I celebrate the Nigerian Armed Forces for their steadfast service to the unity, peace, and stability of our dear nation.  In the face of evolving security challenges, our men and women in uniform have remained resolute, standing as guardians of Nigeria’s collective identity with courage, discipline, and patriotism. The Armed Forces continue to play a decisive role in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, securing land, air, and maritime borders against forces that threaten national sovereignty. Through sustained operations and strategic vigilance, they have ensured that Nigeria remains whole and indivisible, strengthening public confidence in the authority of the state. In the fight against insurgency, the military has recorded significant gains, dismantling terrorist enclaves, reclaiming territories, and restoring civil governance in affected areas.  These efforts have weakened insurgent networks and allowed displaced citizens to return home and rebuild their lives. As w...

  The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has held a pre-bid conference with prospective bidders for the 50 oil and gas blocks on offer in the 2025 Oil Licensing Round, alongside key stakeholders in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. The interactive session, which took place in Lagos, was aimed at clarifying the modalities, expectations, and regulatory framework guiding the licensing exercise. The conference was hosted by the Commission Chief Executive of NUPRC, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, and was attended by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Upstream, Senator Eteng Williams; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Gas, Senator Agom Jarigbe; Chairman of the House Committee on Upstream, Hon. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa; as well as other top government officials. Also present were members of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), emerging indus...

Cross River South Indigenous Students (4th Edition) The Constituency Office of Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong is pleased to announce the commencement of the Fourth Edition of the Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Education Support Initiative (ESI) 2026. This initiative is designed to provide educational support of ₦100,000 each to 1,000 qualified beneficiaries who are indigenous and resident students of Cross River South Senatorial District, as part of the Senator’s continued commitment to human capital development through education. ELIGIBILITY The programme is open to Undergraduate and Postgraduate students currently studying in: ✅ Federal and State Universities ✅ Colleges of Education ✅ Colleges of Health Technology ✅ Schools of Nursing Applicants must be indigenes and residents of Cross River South, from: Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Biase, Bakassi, Calabar South, Calabar Municipal, and Odukpani. Admission Letters and Certificates of Origin will be verified. HOW TO APPLY Interested applicants are to apply ...

  The University of Calabar has appointed  Dr. Ukam Ivi Ngwu as acting Head, Department of Journalism and Media Studies in the Faculty of Communication and Media studies. A release from the office of the vice Chancellor and signed by the vice Chancellor Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong disclosed that the appointment is for a period of two years at the first instance with effect from 1st January, 2026 to 31st December, 2027. By the appointment, Dr. Ngwu is expected to discharge his duties diligently by effectively administering the department to ensure optimal productivity. The release also states that the Prof. Offiong administration will not hesitate to sanction any Head of Department who fails to turn in results within the given time line or who breaches University regulation. Public Relations Unit  University of Calabar.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has reiterated the need for all stakeholders in the University to work collaboratively in the overall interest of the institution. The VC who made the call during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Friday January 9th 2026 at the New Cafeteria of Calabar Campus, emphasized that the contribution of every stakeholder is essential to the institution’s growth and well-being. According to her, "We would always work as a team. Where things go wrong is where there is no love and where there is no trust. Where every member of the family is concerned about the welfare of the family, things go well. When everybody is concerned about the other's welfare, then the family can be whole, complete and healthy. Where the responsibility is left for one or two members of the family while others stay aloof, that is where there is a problem. We want this family to progress and succeed. That is why we have su...

  After a prolonged leadership crisis in the University of Cross River State, UNICROSS, the Visitor to the University, Governor Bassey  Otu, took decisive action on February 26, 2025, by appointing Prof. Francisca Bassey, a highly regarded, results-oriented administrator as Acting Vice Chancellor. Her outstanding performance during this interim period paved the way for her confirmation as substantive VC on July 17, 2025, where, in a rigorous interview process, she emerged top among contenders, impressing the Governing Council with her clear articulation of a practical and ambitious vision, coupled with the undeniable evidence of her exceptional achievements in just five months as Acting VC. 315 days at the helm, Prof. Bassey has proven the Visitor right in his judgment to appoint her as the second substantive female VC of the institution. Bassey, a Professor of organic chemistry has orchestrated a symphony of transformations across all campuses, turning challenges into opportu...

  President Bola Tinubu congratulates Dr Zacch Adedeji, the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, on his birthday. President Tinubu commends Adedeji’s sterling leadership of the 83-year-old revenue agency, the introduction of fresh ideas, the adoption of global best practices, the automation of systems, and the upskilling of staff members for the greater good of the nation.  "I salute the NRS  Chairman for his visionary and charismatic dedication in restructuring, aligning and managing the revenue profile of the country. "He recorded a historic achievement, meeting the budget targets in the Third Quarter of 2025, and stimulating the economy for prosperity.  “Zacch has also been instrumental in the adoption of the National Single Window, a transformative federal digital platform to streamline import and export processes, enhance transparency and reduce cargo clearance from 21 days to one week," the President remarks. Dr Adedeji previously served as a senior member ...

  The Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, Rep. Peter Akpanke, yesterday hosted a mammoth crowd at the Obudu Local Government Secretariat for a special Christmas/New Year event organised for his constituents. As part of his Yuletide package, the lawmaker donated Five Million Naira (N5,000,000) and 300 bags of rice to each of the three local government areas that make up the constituency. He also provided N100,000 business support for 33 women from across the constituency. Speaking, Akpanke explained that, having been preoccupied with state functions during the Christmas and New Year period, he deemed it fitting to fulfil his annual ritual of celebrating and identifying with his people during festive seasons by organising the special event. He stated that, “Although we had earlier celebrated Christmas as a political party where I was unable to be physically present at the time. However, I sent my contribution and made a firm decision to begin the new yea...

  Band Leader of TINKORIKO, a group that embodies Calabar cultural heritage, Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, PhD has expressed profound appreciations to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for granting special recognition to the group to feature in the Calabar carnival Calendar.  In an appreciation message, Orok conveyed deep gratitude to the governor, stating that the single benevolent act of incorporating the carnival into the festival calendar is not only novel but a restoration of the rich cultural heritage and history of Calabar.  He also thanked him who has physically participated in the street parade for several editions and for also donating cash support, to boost the operations of the group.  Orok Duke, who currently represents the state on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission - NDDC, assured the Otu led administration of continued support and the protection of reverred historical artifacts spread around the state.  With this approval, TINKORIKO Parade now ...

  Yesterday the 5th day of January 2026, Stakeholders across Northern Cross River State have commended Senator Professor Stephen Adi Odey for what they described as consistent, people-centred leadership, following a massive empowerment programme held in Yache, Yala Local Government Area. The gathering was also a new year celebration with Yache nation and  Odey's supporters across the North.  Addressing beneficiaries and community leaders, Senator Odey said his decision to give was driven by compassion and not surplus, urging residents to imbibe a culture of sharing and consistency in loyalty. He disclosed that the empowerment cut across the five local government areas of Northern Cross River, with emphasis on entrepreneurship, unity, and grassroots development. As part of the intervention, the Senator distributed 32 sewing machines, allocating two machines to each of the 14 wards in Yala, alongside 17 brand-new motorcycles, over 200 bags of rice, and several cash grants t...

In a vibrant celebration marked by gratitude and community bonding, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Gender Mainstreaming, Dr. Inyang Asibong, has ushered in the New Year with a well-attended community gathering at her residence. The event brought together community leaders, political stakeholders, cultural masquerade groups, and residents, reflecting Dr. Asibong’s enduring commitment to grassroots engagement and inclusive governance. The colourful ceremony underscored her role as a vital link between the government and the people. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Asibong expressed profound gratitude to God for the gift of life and the opportunity to serve. She appreciated the people for their unwavering support and used the occasion to acknowledge the leadership of the First Family of Cross River State—Governor Prince Bassey Otu and his wife, Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu—for the confidence reposed in her. She commended the Otu-led administration f...