Detailing News

Cross River North has produced some of the finest and most influential leaders in Cross River State and indeed Nigeria. Many of these leaders, however, are largely defined by the high positions they have occupied. High Chief Higgins Peters stands out differently. Widely regarded as the Natural Leader of the North, he has carved a unique and undeniable space in the politics and development of the senatorial district. Love him or disagree with him, no one can ignore the influence he wields, interestingly, without holding any major elective or appointive position in recent times.  While some, particularly those deeply rooted in traditional protocol, may disagree with him, it is difficult to argue against the title of “Natural Leader” that his admirers have bestowed upon him. Through his seamless integration into the power structures and influential circles across the entire state, High Chief Higgins Peters has earned this recognition. In a senatorial district where virtually every pol...

  Your election as the National Deputy Treasurer of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), is well deserved and a strong reflection of your dedication, loyalty, and consistent service to the party. This victory also underscores the confidence reposed in you by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, whose nomination reflects both trust in your capacity and recognition of your steadfast commitment to the party’s ideals. It further affirms your proven ability to contribute meaningfully to the growth and stability of the APC at the national level. I am confident that in this new role, you will strengthen the party’s financial integrity while projecting Cross River State prominently on the national stage. I wish you a successful and impactful tenure. Congratulations once again. Æ Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, and immediate past National woman Leader of APC; Betta Edu, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu, Chairman and members of the party’s newly elected National Working Committee, describing the seamless emergence of the Party’s new Leadership as a reflection of internal democracy and progressive leadership under President Bola Tinubu. In a statement she personally signed after the party’s National Convention held on 27th- 28th of March 2026, the immediate past National Women Leader commended delegates and stakeholders for what she described as a peaceful and well-coordinated exercise. Edu also congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to inclusivity, noting that under his watch, the party has remained stable while expanding its membership base nationwide. She said the outcome of the convention, particularly the re-election of several officials, reinforces confidence in the party’s structures and processes. ...

I join millions of Nigerians and well-wishers across the world in celebrating my boss, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,GCFR, on the occasion of his 74th birthday. The President’s journey reflects how visionary leadership-anchored on courage, resilience, and sacrifice,can drive lasting progress and inspire a nation toward greatness.  His remarkable political trajectory, defined by strategic foresight and unwavering determination, continues to motivate a new generation of leaders, while his dedication to nation-building remains exemplary. Mr. President’s sustained investments in the Nigerian economy and human capital development have catalysed meaningful progress, strengthened institutions, and further positioned the All Progressives Congress as a credible and inclusive platform for Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora. Notably, under your leadership, the ruling party successfully delivered a rancour-free and all-inclusive National Convention, culminating in the emergence of a new ...

  …Residents applaud visible dividends of democracy, pledge continued support Communities across the Central Senatorial District have continued to pour encomiums on Senator Eteng Jonah Williams following the installation of solar-powered streetlights aimed at enhancing security and improving infrastructure at the grassroots. The commendation comes on the heels of a viral video by an indigene of Lebang Community, Mr. Enang Ofem Ibor, which was made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Calabar. In the video, he lauded the Senator for what he described as a timely and impactful intervention that directly addresses the needs of the people. Speaking with excitement, Ibor expressed  appreciation for Senator Williams’ commitment to community safety, noting that the newly installed solar lights have significantly reduced criminal activities that once thrived under the cover of darkness. “This is what true representation looks like,” he stated, adding that the project has not only illu...

  The Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Rt. Hon. Chief Orok Duke, PhD, has called on qualified youths across the state to take advantage of the 2026/2027 Foreign Post-Graduate Scholarship Programme recently announced by the Commission. Chief Duke, in a statement made available to journalists, described the scholarship scheme as a strategic investment in human capital development aimed at empowering young people from the Niger Delta region with global exposure and competitive skills. According to him, the initiative provides a golden opportunity for Cross Riverians to pursue Master’s Degree programmes in top institutions abroad in critical fields such as Engineering, Information Technology, Environmental Sciences, Medical Sciences, Law, and other key disciplines vital to regional and national development. He urged interested applicants, particularly indigenes of Cross River State, to promptly visit the official NDDC portal to be...

  The Chairman Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his recent diplomatic engagement in the United Kingdom, describing the visit as a strategic move that reinforces Nigeria’s global relevance. In a statement issued in Abuja, Ibrahim who is the Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, said the President’s outreach comes at a critical time in global affairs, where international relations are shaped by a mix of competition, cooperation, and emerging ideological divisions. He noted that the current geopolitical climate reflects signs of a re-emerging global polarity, requiring countries to adopt deliberate and collaborative diplomatic strategies. According to him,Tinubu’s engagement underscores Nigeria’s readiness to navigate the evolving global order with foresight and balance, while maintaining its commitment to multilateralism and dialogue. The Lawmaker also highlighted the diplomatic signi...

  The City Boy Movement, a youth-focused support group championing the reelection of President Bola Tinubu in 2027 has distributed food items worth millions of naira to both Muslim and Christian communities in Cross River State. The event, which took place on Wednesday in Calabar, saw the distribution of over 5,000 boxes of palliatives, packed with essential food items to both Christians and Muslims in the spirit of the holy month. State Coordinator of the group, Okon Eyo-Ita while speaking, said the initiative was designed to support the Muslim as they celebrate the Eid-el-Fitr and the Christians are they prepare for Easter.  He said that the City Boy Movement is not merely an organisation, but a growing platform for youth mobilisation, civic responsibility, and sustained grassroots engagement in support of national development. Eyo-Ita said that “the Calabar outreach signals the beginning of a broader agenda, one that positions the City Boy Movement as a unifying force and a...

  Cross River State representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Rt. Hon. Chief Orok Duke, PhD extends warm felicitations to President Ahmed Tinubu and all Muslim Ummah, on the celebration of the 2026 Eid-al-Fitr celebration.  In a goodwill message marking the occasion, Orok underscores the importance of the celebration, noting that peaceful coexistence is a panacea for development.  "I extend my sincere felicitations to His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and all Muslims, on the occasion of the Eid-al-Fitr.  This celebration is significant, not just for the Muslim Ummah, but a moment that calls for collective action against forces that threaten our common existence as a nation.  Islam, as we all know, is a religion of peace.  May the Almighty Allah, bring us peace and grant our heart desires". Orok further called on all to use the occasion to pray for the country and the leadersh...

  I warmly felicitate with the Muslim Ummah across Nigeria and beyond on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is a sacred period of deep reflection, sacrifice, discipline, and devotion to Almighty Allah.  It is a time that reinforces the enduring values of compassion, generosity, patience, and selflessness-virtues that are essential not only to personal growth but also to nation-building. As Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, I urge all Nigerians to sustain the spirit of Ramadan by promoting peace, unity, and mutual respect in our communities.  At this critical time in our national journey, it is imperative that we place the national interest above all divisions, working collectively with President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards a more inclusive, stable, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. I call on all faithful that the lessons of Ramadan;love for humanity, care for the vulnerable, and commitment to justice...

  Let me put a caveat at the outset. Firstly, I was Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim’s coursemate at OAU almost four decades ago.  In addition, he made me the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nicon Insurance Ltd a couple of years ago. However, I do not intend to relinquish or surrender my freedom of expression based on my relationship with him.  I am aware that armchair critics of Sonala’s ilk will latch onto this relationship to paint this write-up as parochial or biased.I owe them no apologies.  Typically, the fact that I come from the same ethnic stock as Jimoh Ibrahim, whom we fondly call ‘Araba’, will not be a barrier to my right of expression. I was inundated with a flurry of calls and texts by friends and associates yesterday morning, and some of them sent me a PDF copy of the article.  An initial cursory glance revealed that the contents consist of distorted facts and baseless claims, as well as a rehash of old allegations which Sonala now peddles as true.  A...

  By Wale Obanigba, Esq. The appointment of Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations marks an important moment in the country’s diplomatic engagement on the global stage.  A seasoned businessman, legal scholar, and politician, Ibrahim brings a blend of intellectual depth, international exposure, and legislative experience that positions him strongly for the role. Before this appointment, Ibrahim served as a Senator representing Ondo South in the Nigerian Senate, where he chaired the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs. In that capacity, he played a key role in strengthening Nigeria’s parliamentary diplomacy and building relationships with legislative bodies across the world.  His work on the committee provided valuable experience in multilateral engagement, negotiation, and international policy dialogue. Beyond politics, Ibrahim is widely recognized for his academic and professional achievements.  A lawyer by training and ...

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has charged newly admitted students to take their studies seriously and ensure they cultivate good character throughout their stay in the institution. The VC gave the charge during the 24th matriculation ceremony for newly admitted students at the Calabar campus. Prof. Bassey, expressed appreciation to the State Governor, members of the Governing Council, the University Senate, as well as parents and guardians for their continued support toward the growth and development of the university. She reminded the matriculating students that the institution awards degrees not only on the basis of academic excellence but also on the demonstration of sound learning and good character. She encouraged the students to take advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), noting that the initiative provides financial support that can help reduce the burden of educational expenses during their...

Students of SS2B at Holy Trinity College, Calabar, on Monday, March 16, 2026, pleasantly surprised their class teacher, Mrs. Josephine Trinity, with a heartwarming birthday celebration. Speaking with Detailings News shortly after the event, Mrs. Trinity recounted how the unexpected moment unfolded. According to her, as she was about to enter the school gate that morning, one of her students approached her, exchanged pleasantries, and politely requested that she delay entering the classroom for a short while. She explained that although such a request was unusual, she decided to oblige and waited for a few minutes. Shortly afterward, another student came to escort her to the classroom. Upon entering, she was greeted with a beautifully decorated classroom filled with excited students whose bright smiles reflected their joy. The atmosphere came alive as the students burst into a melodious birthday song in celebration of their beloved teacher. Mrs. Trinity revealed that she was deeply over...

  The United Nations has requested the arrival details of Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim CFR, ahead of his assumption of duties at the global body’s headquarters in New York City. Ibrahim, a serving senator, was nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations and was confirmed by the Nigerian Senate in December 2025. In an email sent to the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the United Nations in New York, the UN requested information on Ibrahim’s expected date of arrival in the United States, including his flight details. The organisation said the information was required to enable its protocol team arrange a formal courtesy reception for the Nigerian envoy at the airport ahead of the official presentation of his Letter of Credence to the UN Secretary-General. Sources familiar with the development said the UN also clarified that all approvals required for Senator Ibrahim to r...

  Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District, Asuquo Ekpenyong, has once again demonstrated his commitment to grassroots empowerment by facilitating a grant disbursement to 400 constituents to support small businesses and improve productivity. The initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the People First Mandate of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, both of which emphasize economic inclusion, enterprise development, and improved livelihood for citizens. The empowerment programme, organized in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, was held on Thursday at Channel View Hotel, where each beneficiary received a grant of ₦100,000. Speaking during the event, Senator Ekpenyong said the initiative forms part of his continuous effort to support entrepreneurs, women, and youths across the senatorial district. He emphasized that empowering constituents economically remains one of the most sustainable w...

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has highlighted the need for greater political inclusion and support for women aspiring to leadership positions. Professor Bassey made the call in Abuja during the launch of “HER Unity Circle” by the Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA), held as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration. She noted that “Nigerian women have shown capacity and competence in leadership across several sectors. If the masses believe in their abilities, they should allow them to lead.  The VC who called on women to embrace unity and collaboration as key drivers of leadership and national development, urged them to mentor younger women in order to build a stronger and more inclusive society. Explaining that the theme of the event, “Her Power, Our Unity: Empowerment, Leadership and National Transformation,” was timely, she emphasized that women can achieve grea...

   The first semester examinations for the 2025/2026 academic session commenced yesterday at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), marking a significant step toward the successful completion of the semester in line with the revised academic schedule. The examinations were initially scheduled to begin on Monday, February 23, 2026, but were subsequently postponed to Monday, March 9, 2026. It will be recalled that a statement contained in Circular No. 508, issued on February 17, 2026 by the Registrar, Dr. Catherine Osai, explained that the postponement was intended to provide students with sufficient time to complete their course registration processes, while also enabling newly admitted students to finalize their registration. The circular further noted that the adjustment would allow students adequate time to obtain their identification cards, which are mandatory for admission into examination halls. As rescheduled, final year students across all departments of the un...

  In continuation of her decade-long Ramadan and Lent tradition, Dr. Betta Edu over the weekend broke fast with over 1,500 physically challenged men, women, and children of Muslim and Christian faiths in the Karonmajigi community, behind the National Military Cemetery, Abuja. The programme, which began in Bogobiri and Nasarawa Bakoko, Calabar during her tenure as Director General of the Primary Healthcare Development Agency and later as Commissioner for Health in Cross River State, was held this weekend to pray for Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Recall that in 2025, Dr. Edu hosted the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, and his entourage for an iftar with Muslim communities in Calabar. The dinner was also attended by the Acting Governor of Cross River State and the management of the University of Calabar, bringing Christians and Muslims together in Calabar around the same period last year. During the weekend visit, Dr. Edu met with visually impaired individuals and other...

Fly High, Our Silver bird:Fly High! (For Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Silverbird “Man of the Year,2025 and The Sun Newspaper, Man of the year 2025”) Cross River is proud of you, Fly high,our Silver-bird, Fly high, Sail on by, Your time is on. Like a bridge over troubled waters, You are to ease our minds, Your time has come to shine, All your dreams are on their way. You were energised to do more for us: You spread your tentacles, You spread your wings, The celestial bodies saw your deeds and strides And could no more blink nor look away, So The Sun led the eulogy with an embrace. Then you ended the Year 2025 As a SilverBird. Cross River is proud of you, Fly high,our Silver-bird, Fly high, Sail on by, Your time is now. What do you say to a man who stole your shadow, Just to prove a tribal point? Same unpatriotic megalomaniacs that Stephen admonished; “Which of the Prophets did your fathers not persecute?(Acts:7:52) And they even killed those that foretold the Promise. The story of the grou...

By Rasheed Olanrewaju In the evolution of Nigeria’s democratic experience, certain public figures stand out not merely for the offices they have occupied, but for the institutional value they have added and the leadership stability they have provided across changing political eras. One of such figures is Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, OFR, CON, whose career reflects a rare blend of legal scholarship, legislative depth, administrative experience, and mentorship-driven influence. As he marks his 70th birthday, the occasion offers an important moment to reflect on a public life defined by professionalism, discipline, and sustained national relevance. His journey reinforces the timeless observation by John C. Maxwell that “Leadership is not about titles, positions or flowcharts.  It is about one life influencing another.” Over the decades, Ndoma-Egba’s career has consistently demonstrated how professional credibility can translate into institutional impact. Born on March...

  In a bid to boost staff morale and create a more conducive working environment, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has commenced the distribution of newly procured modern office furniture to Professors, Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, and very senior academic and non academic staff across the institution. The furniture, provided through the intervention of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), was presented during a brief ceremony on Thursday, March 5, 2026.  The initiative is aimed at improving office facilities for senior academic and non academic staff and enhancing departmental administrative efficiency. Speaking while presenting the items to the beneficiaries, Prof. Bassey urged the recipients to ensure proper maintenance and careful handling of the furniture.  She emphasized that the initiative reflects the University’s management commitment to creating a conducive environment that suppor...

  The Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District and a business management strategist, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim CFR, has said Nigeria is not among the world’s most indebted nations, describing the country’s current fiscal outlook as evidence of disciplined economic management under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Ibrahim who is also an Ambassador-designate, stated this while reacting to ongoing debates over Nigeria’s debt profile and borrowing pattern, noting that contrary to earlier projections by critics, the Tinubu administration has not embarked on excessive borrowing. According to him, global economic data show that several advanced and emerging economies currently top the list of the world’s most indebted countries in terms of debt-to-GDP ratio, while Nigeria does not fall within that bracket. “Those who expected reckless borrowing have been proven wrong,” he said. “Nigeria is not on the list of the world’s most indebted countries.This reflects deliberate fiscal coordination a...

  Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has appointed Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. Senator Ibrahim, a doctorate graduate of the University of Cambridge, obtained his Bachelor's degree in International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science and a Master of Science from the University of Oxford. He was born in Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, in 1967. Until his appointment, Ibrahim was the Chairman of the Nigerian Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Worldwide. He was elected into the Nigerian Senate in 2023, representing Ondo South Senatorial District. While in the Senate, Dr. Ibrahim was appointed as Interim President of the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary in Geneva in 2023. He served as Nigeria’s Representative in ECOWAS and also as an Executive Member of the Pan-African Parliament. At the Nigerian Senate, Dr. Ibrahim served in the Senate Committees on Appropria...

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has organized a one-day stakeholders’ engagement and capacity-building workshop for communities within the Niger Delta, calling for stronger community ownership and protection of its projects. During the training sessions, participants were enlightened on key thematic areas of the Commission’s mandate, particularly on equitable development and the provision of sustainable and affordable livelihoods for people in the region. The guest lecturer, Ajibola Samsideen Shekoni, PhD, who spoke on the topic “Strengthening Community Ownership Framework for Sustainable NDDC Projects Monitoring and Protection Against Vandalism and Theft,” stressed the importance of community participation in safeguarding development projects. He noted that projects can only achieve their intended impact when residents within host communities take responsibility for their protection. Other guest speakers also underscored the need to ensure the sustainability and durabili...

  By Joseph Abasi-Abasi  Season 4 of MTN Champs has officially begun in Calabar, with organizers declaring the championship a critical launchpad for Nigeria’s sustained Olympic preparation through 2028. Backed by MTN Nigeria and technical partners Making of Champions (MOC), the youth athletics championship is now positioned not just as a schools’ competition, but as a structured pipeline to develop athletes for major international competitions over the next Olympic cycle. MTN recently extended its partnership with Making of Champions through 2028, guaranteeing Seasons 4, 5 and 6 of the championship. Stakeholders say the move provides stability and long-term planning for cadet, youth, junior and senior athletes as Nigeria builds towards the next Olympic Games. Speaking at the Season 4 launch in Calabar, MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna Emeka, said the company remains committed to creating platforms that allow young Nigerians to compete locally and internationally. ...

  Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has extended warm congratulations to the newly elected Cross River State Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Rt. Hon. Christopher Eta as State Chairman. In a congratulatory message, the senator commended the emergence of the new leadership, noting that Rt. Hon. Eta brings to the position a wealth of experience garnered from his years as a former legislator and administrator. According to Ekpenyong, Eta’s deep understanding of governance, party organization, and public service places him in a strong position to provide steady leadership and uphold the progressive ideals upon which the APC is founded. The senator also expressed confidence that the new State Executive Committee would strengthen party unity and deepen grassroots engagement across the state. He further noted that under the leadership of Governor Bassey Otu, who serves as the leader of the APC in Cross River State, the party is well positioned to consolidate its a...

  The Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, has congratulated the newly inaugurated State Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State. The state congress, which produced the new leadership of the party, was widely described by party stakeholders as peaceful and well coordinated, with delegates affirming their confidence in the new executives. The exercise attracted party leaders, stakeholders, elected officials and delegates from across the state.  At the end of the process, former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Christopher Etta, emerged as State Chairman alongside other members of the executive committee tasked with piloting the affairs of the party in Cross River State. Senator Williams commended the leadership and members of the party for ensuring a smooth and successful congress, noting that the development reflects the maturity and unity within the APC in Cross Rive...