Detailing News

  The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), in collaboration with the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), has concluded a four-day capacity-building programme for lecturers and technologists in the institution’s Faculty of Engineering. The training was designed to enhance professional competence by exposing participants to modern teaching methodologies and aligning instructional practices with contemporary accreditation standards. A major focus of the programme was Outcome-Based Education (OBE), an approach that focuses on measurable learning outcomes, practical competencies, and continuous assessment in engineering education. In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Engr. Professor Simon Odey, underscored the need for continuous learning and adaptability among lecturers. He encouraged participants to embrace innovation and integrate new approaches into their teaching. Professor Odey said: "This training equips faculty with es...

  At a media and stakeholders’ engagement in Calabar on Wednesday, the 29th Day of April 2026, former Cross River Commissioner for Health and ex-Deputy National Coordinator of the National Cash Transfer Office, Dr Janet Ekpenyong, decried the state’s low participation in the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2.0, revealing that only about 150 youths have registered. The engagement, which took place yesterday, April 29, 2026, at Prof. Eyo Ita House, brought together key stakeholders across government, finance, and the development sector to chart a collaborative path toward job creation and innovation. A renewed push to tackle unemployment through innovation was also highlighted, with a strong focus on identifying and supporting unconventional innovators, particularly women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from marginalised communities. Speaking during the event, Catherine emphasized that the initiative is designed to promote practical, community-driven solutions th...

  Youth leaders under the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South Local Government Areas, in collaboration with university students from the constituency, have declared a loss of confidence in the current member representing the federal constituency at the House of Representatives. The declaration was made on April 29, 2026, during a joint press briefing at the NUJ Press Centre, Calabar. The group cited lack of bursary opportunities, poor youth inclusion and what they described as weak engagement with constituents as key reasons for their stance. Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Comrade Sebastian Edet Ekpenyong, former Secretary of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, said the youths were dissatisfied with the level of democratic dividends and alleged marginalisation in governance processes. He stressed that the time had come for a generational transition, noting that the youths would n...

  The Cross River State Government has issued a comprehensive public safety advisory following the release of the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Calabar on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, outlined the state’s strategy to mitigate the impacts of the predicted weather patterns. According to the NiMet 2026 SCP, most of Nigeria is expected to experience normal to above-normal rainfall. Notably, Cross River is listed among the states - including Borno, Sokoto, Enugu, and Akwa Ibom - anticipated to receive higher-than-average precipitation volumes. Dr. Ekpang pointed out that Cross River is also projected to experience a delayed end to the rainy season, alongside states like Lagos, Anambra, and Benue. This extension, coupled with an early-to-normal onset of rains, suggests a significantly longer wet s...

  Precious Jerry Akuma, a former student of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), has received her degree certificate following widespread attention to her viral TikTok videos highlighting a five-year delay in the processing of her results. In a newly released video, she described the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey, as “a destiny helper,” commending her for swift intervention that led to the release of her results and those of other affected students. Her case gained public attention in February 2026 when she shared emotional videos detailing her experience.  In one clip, she said: “I am going to try not to cry. But I am so hurting… This is something I have not been able to say for the past five good years of my life. I studied Animal Science… I was supposed to graduate in 2020 but because of COVID-19 we couldn't graduate. We graduated in 2021… I have done everything concerning my education… Today is Day Ten of thirty days of speaking to my camera. This ...

  Support groups under the Suki umbrella have concluded plans to formally adopt President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong ahead of the 2027 general elections. This decision was reached during a strategic meeting convened by Hon. Eric Anderson, where leaders deliberated on grassroots mobilization strategies to strengthen political support across the state. Addressing participants, Hon. Anderson emphasized that the meeting was aimed at consolidating efforts to galvanize widespread grassroots backing for the three leaders. He noted that coordinated engagement at the community level remains critical to achieving political success in the forthcoming elections. He announced that the formal adoption event is scheduled to hold on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Metropolitan Hotel (formerly Transcorp Hotel), Calabar, by 3:00 p.m.  According to him, the event will feature the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel I...

Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, has called on Cross Riverians to take advantage of the innovative space provided by the Commission to engage in digital procurement systems.  Speaking on the just concluded training on "Policy Reforms and Digitalization of the NDDC Procurement System" held in Calabar, Orok underscored the importance of the training which according to him, would eliminate unwholesome practices in the procurement of contracts.  While delivering their lectures, guest lecturers, made up of seasoned academic giants and Legal Practitioners, gave in-depth, practical experience into the policy, presenting the step by step procurement procedures.  The lectures also guided the legal aspects of the policy documents with a view to arming the citizens on best practices for overall benefits.  With the theme "Promoting Best Procurement Practices and Digital System for NDDC", the e...

  In the evolving dynamics of our political landscape, the call for continuity in leadership often rises beyond mere preference, it becomes a collective conviction rooted in performance, trust, and results. For the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District, the growing demand for the re-election of Senator Eteng Jonah Williams is not just political, it is a reflection of proven leadership and a mandate shaped by impact. Since assuming office, Senator Williams has redefined representation through purposeful, people-centered governance. His tenure has been marked by strategic interventions in infrastructure, human capital development, and grassroots empowerment, delivering tangible benefits across communities. From facilitating over 40 federal jobs and political appointments for constituents, to securing 40 foreign scholarship placements across the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, his commitment to youth empowerment and expanding educational opportunities is evident. Thro...

  The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to advance research and student-focused initiatives that promote safer road use. The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Francisca Bassey, made the reaffirmation on Friday, April 24, 2026, when the Cross River State Sector Commander of the Corps, Corps Commander Innocent Etuk, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to her office. Prof. Bassey highlighted the importance of proper driver training, the use of standardized driving manuals, and the strict enforcement of traffic regulations as essential measures for reducing road accidents. She also called for FRSC support in managing traffic around the university, especially at the main gate, citing concerns over congestion, roadside trading, and environmental safety. Earlier, the FRSC Sector Commander outlined key areas of engagement, including strengthening institutional collaboration,...

  Stakeholders and party supporters in Ukelle,  Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and His Excellency Apostle Senator Prince Bassey Otu for second terms in office as Hon Dr  Martins Achadu, member representing Yala II State Constituency formally declared his intention to seek re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The endorsement took place during an endorsement rally convened by Hon Dr Martins Achadu at his country home in Ijiraga South Ukelle drew political leaders, party executives and community representatives from across Ukelle. Chairman of  Ukelle Leadership Forum, Hon. Dr John Ulafor in an interface with Ukelle Traditional Rulers Council, stakeholders and All Progressives Congress executives at both chapter and at the ward level as well as party supporters  said that while zoning remains a recognised principle in Ukelle the prevailing political realities and body languag...

Former Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, duly tendered his resignation from office, citing health reasons,  before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced his replacement on Tuesday. Also, the former Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, similarly resigned and thanked the President for the opportunity given him to serve in the Federal Executive Council. Edun, who clocked 70 on Monday and has battled recent ill health, fittingly submitted his resignation letter on his birthday, thanking the President for the opportunity to serve Nigeria. “It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve your administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda”, his letter read.  “Under your leadership, Nigeria has emerged stronger, more resilient and more internationally respected. “I wish you and the administration every success in the future”, he wrote. On Tuesday, before the Office of the Secretary of the Government of the Federation announce...

  History was recorded at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) on Friday April 23, 2026, as the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey, was formally inducted as a Fellow of the Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering (NATE).  The conferment makes her the first female Fellow of the Association in Cross River State. The induction followed a courtesy visit by a delegation of NATE officials, led by representatives of the national and state leadership.  Speaking, Professor Bassey expressed deep appreciation for the honour and acknowledged the Association’s support for the university’s developmental goals. She described the conferment as a collective achievement and commended NATE’s commitment to advancing technical education and manpower development.  The Vice Chancellor reiterated the university’s focus on strengthening academic standards and expanding international collaborations to ensure graduates are globally competitive. She highlighted o...

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has announced the promotion of ten academic staff members across various faculties, following appraisal exercises that were conducted by External Assessors. This marks a significant development in the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and staff advancement. The announcement was made on Thursday, April 23, 2026, during an emergency meeting of the University’s Senate held at the Calabar campus. The Vice Chancellor announced that five lecturers have been elevated from the rank of Reader to Professor. They are: Professor Joseph Ukpata and Professor Nkpa Ogarekpe, both of the Department of Civil Engineering; Professor Adebisi Adesola of the Department of Accounting; Professor Sunday Ebaye of the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies; and Professor Ferdinand Kamgba of the Department of Physics. In addition, five lecturers were promoted from the rank of Senior Lecturer to ...

  Staff and students of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) are celebrating a major institutional milestone following the release of accreditation results by the National Universities Commission (NUC). The Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey, announced the results on Thursday, April 23, 2026, during an emergency Senate meeting held at the Calabar campus.  She announced that all academic programmes presented for accreditation in November and December 2025 received full accreditation, with the exception of one programme, which was granted Interim Accreditation. Programmes that secured full accreditation include Human Kinetics and Health Education, Urban and Regional Planning, Economics, Peace and Conflict Studies, Sociology, Banking and Finance, Entrepreneurship Studies, Marketing, Forestry and Wildlife, Broadcasting, Journalism and Media Studies, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Animal and Environmental Biology, Industrial Chemistry, and Plant Scien...

  The Senate of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has officially announced the elevation of Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe, KSM, to the rank of Associate Professor of Civil Engineering. The announcement, made during today’s Senate meeting of the institution, marks a significant milestone in the academic and professional journey of the respected engineer and scholar. Dr. Egbe’s elevation is in recognition of his contributions to the field of Civil Engineering, his academic output, and his commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community service. The news has been received with widespread joy and celebration among colleagues, friends, and well-wishers. Congratulations have continued to pour in for the new Associate Professor, who is widely regarded for his dedication and impact within the academic community. Massive congratulations to our dear brother, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe, KSM, on this well-deserved achievement.

CROSS RIVER –AKWA IBOM OIL WELLS DISPUTE AND THE RECOGNITION OF WESTERN BAKASSI ISLANDS:  MAKING A CASE FOR LEGISLATIVE COLLABORATION AND RESOLUTION. The lingering dispute between Cross River State and its sister state, Akwa Ibom, over maritime boundaries and oil wells remains one of Nigeria’s most delicate subnational tensions.  More than two decades after the 2002 International Court of Justice (ICJ) judgment ceded the southern Bakassi Peninsula—including Atabong, Archibong Town, Akwabana, and the Akwayafe Estuary to Cameroon, critical questions surrounding the western Bakassi axis and associated oil assets remain unresolved. While the ICJ judgment ceded portions of Bakassi, it unequivocally retained the western Bakassi islands—Dayspring 1 and 2, Qua Island, Western Abana, and crucially, the Cross River Estuary within Nigeria’s sovereign territory.  This distinction is not merely cartographic; it is strategic, economic, and geopolitical. The delineation of boundaries us...

  Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to resolving long-standing grievances driving insecurity across the country. Speaking in New York while presenting his letter of credence to the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, Ibrahim conveyed Tinubu’s message, underscoring Nigeria’s resolve to confront both domestic and global security challenges. He emphasised Africa’s strategic importance in global governance, renewing calls for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council.  The envoy said such a move would strengthen collective security and reflect current global realities. Ibrahim noted that Nigeria would continue to mobilise support to tackle insecurity in the Sahel and West African sub-region.  He added that the country remains committed to advancing peace-building efforts across the continent. On the economy, Ibrahim highlighted key reforms by the Tinubu a...

  Today, I am deeply humbled to have been named Legislator of the Year by Independent Newspaper, on the occasion of its Silver Jubilee. As this honour was being conferred, I was away in Türkiye at the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), representing Nigeria alongside colleagues under the leadership of the President of the Senate. Though I could not be physically present, I was ably represented by my wife Netanela. This award has led me to a deep introspection, recalling the words written by Sir Isaac Newton in 1675, wherein he stated that he was able to see further because he stood on the shoulders of giants. Whatever recognition I receive is not mine alone. It rests on the vision and belief of leaders who have created space for a new generation to serve and to lead. I thank His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his vision and belief in young Nigerians.  I am equally grateful to the leadership of the Senate — the President of the Senate, His Excell...

The Cross River State Chapter of the City Boy Movement has held its maiden strategic meeting in Calabar, ahead of the forthcoming Renewed Hope National Youth Tour scheduled to take place in Benin City, Edo State, on April 23 and 24. The meeting focused on mobilizing strong participation from Cross River State for the South-South rally, with members emphasizing the need for robust representation at the regional event. Speaking at the meeting, the State Coordinator of the movement, Mr. Ralph Adoga noted that the gathering was convened to ensure effective coordination and mass mobilization of supporters from the state. He described the City Boy Movement as a coalition of young Nigerians who believe in and support the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda. Ralph Adoga also commended the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, for his developmental strides, noting that they align with the broader policy direction of the current administratio...

The atmosphere in the ancient city of Calabar was somber on Saturday April 18, 2026, as the remains of the late Associate Professor Edisua Ita, a renowned academic, clergy woman, and development expert, were laid to rest. Among the high-profile dignitaries in attendance was Rt. Hon. Orok Duke PhD, who paid a moving tribute to the deceased who was his classmate (Class of 1981) Theater Arts at the University of Calabar. The funeral service, which drew mourners from the academia, civil society, and the clergy, served as an attestation to the multifaceted life of the woman fondly called "Aunty Edisua" and "Edi Mama." According to her biography, late Associate Professor Edisua Ita was born on December 30, 1964, in Calabar. She was the daughter of Etubom Asuquo Okon Ita and Elder Princess Mabey Essien Ita. She hailed from a pedigree of royalties spanning the Eki Clan and Asang Eniong Abatim. Her childhood was marked by sophistication; she grew up in Santa Isabel, Equatori...

  Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not back down on the administration’s economic reforms despite current hardships, assuring that Nigerians will soon reap the benefits. Speaking at a parliamentary session on the sidelines of the ongoing IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, DC, Ibrahim stressed that the reforms, though painful in the short term, are essential for long-term growth and national prosperity. He noted that no meaningful global economic progress can be achieved without addressing rising tensions around Iran, particularly the strategic Strait of Hormuz. According to him, “No country can achieve significant economic development this year or thereafter until we jointly secure peace in the ongoing tensions involving Iran, especially as it concerns international passage through the Strait of Hormuz.” Ibrahim warned that disruptions in the region could trigger far...

Today marks the birthday of Professor Francisca Bassey, the dynamic and amiable Vice Chancellor of University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), whose tenure has been defined by purposeful reforms, infrastructural renewal and people-centered leadership. Appointed Acting Vice Chancellor in January 2025 by the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu and confirmed as substantive Vice Chancellor on July 17, 2025, Professor Bassey has, within a relatively short period, repositioned UNICROSS for excellence.  One of the most impactful milestones under her leadership is the approval and implementation of the new minimum wage for staff of the institution by the Cross River State Government. This development has significantly boosted morale and productivity across the university community. In addition, her administration moved swiftly to address longstanding academic and administrative challenges.  For instance, the creation of a Directorate of Exams a...

  Yesterday, 13th April 2026, a joint delegation of the National Assembly Committees on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from both the Senate and the House of Representatives undertook an oversight visit to key NDDC projects in Cross River state, including the reconstruction of Odukpani Junction–Okom Ita–Uyanga–Ehom road. The inspection team, led by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, and his House counterpart, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, alongside the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, Executive Director Projects, Victor Antai assessed the quality and impact of the emergency reconstruction project and also debriefed the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu describing it as a critical intervention for rural connectivity and economic development in the region. Receiving the delegation at Government House, the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, expressed appreciation for the...

  Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations,Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, will deliver a keynote address at Harvard University,barely days after assuming office at the UN Headquarters in New York. Ibrahim, who resumed last Friday as Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, received the invitation from Harvard, his alma mater. In accepting the invitation, Ambassador Ibrahim said the engagement reflects growing global interest in Nigeria’s reform agenda.  He noted that the forum would provide an opportunity to present key aspects of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope strategy, particularly its focus on sustainable development and institutional reforms and long term economic transformation. The keynote will be delivered at the 10th anniversary conference of the Ife Institute of Advanced Studies on June 4, 2026, at the John Knowles Paine Concert Hall. The conference, themed “Building Lasting Institutions: Faith, Scholarship, and the African P...

  The Cross River State representative on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, has sent a warm and hearty congratulatory message to the First Lady of Cross River State, Her Excellency, Bishop (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, on the occasion of her birthday. In a statement on Friday, Duke described the First Lady as a "pillar of support, a beacon of hope, and a mother to the state," whose life has been dedicated to the service of humanity and the spiritual upliftment of the people. The NDDC Rep lauded the First Lady’s numerous humanitarian initiatives, particularly her "People First" social welfare programmes which have reached the vulnerable, the aged, and the less privileged across the eighteen local government areas of the state. He noted that her compassion and grace have significantly complemented the developmental strides of the Governor, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu. "On behalf of my family and...

  In a political climate where ceremonial roles often overshadow substance, the emergence of Bishop Eyoawan Bassey Otu as a force for tangible social change in Cross River State stands out as both refreshing and consequential. As she marks her birthday today, it is fitting to reflect not just on the passage of time, but on the depth of impact she has made since assuming the role of First Lady in 2023 alongside her husband, Governor Bassey Otu. From the outset, Bishop Otu has redefined the expectations of her office. Rather than settling into the comfort of ceremonial appearances, she has embraced a hands-on approach to governance support, particularly in the area of women’s empowerment. Across the state, her initiatives have consistently targeted economic inclusion, skill acquisition, and financial independence for women. What distinguishes her efforts is not merely their scale, but their consistency; empowerment programmes under her watch have become a near-monthly intervention, t...

  Governor Bassey Otu has signed four transformative bills into law, in a major push to reposition the health and education sectors while improving sanitation and overall quality of life in Cross River State. The Governor, who described the development as a critical milestone in his administration’s reform agenda, said the laws were carefully designed to respond to the immediate needs of the people, with particular emphasis on strengthening the health system. “Anything about health is not a joke. These bills will help our people because they ensure we have the right resources and options available to us,” Otu said during the signing ceremony held on Wednesday at governor’s office in Calabar. He also praised the Cross River State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Elvert Ayambem, for its thorough legislative work and constructive debates, noting that the synergy between both arms of government has continued to yield people-oriented policies. “I’ve checked the responses and reactions....