Detailing News

  Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, PhD has paid tributes as family, community leaders and associates gathered in Calabar to lay Chief Archibong Ewa Ekeng to rest following his death on February 9, 2026, after a protracted illness. Chief Ekeng was 71. While expressing sadness over his demise, Duke noted the late Chief Ekeng's lifelong dedication to public service, community development and faith, describing him as a bridge between Calabar’s royal lineages and a tireless advocate for the people.  "Chief Ekeng’s humility, humour and unwavering commitment to the community set a standard for leadership," he said, urging younger leaders to emulate his integrity and service. Born on October 15, 1954, Chief Archibong Ewa Ekeng, according to his biography read by his family, traced his roots to prominent royal families across Calabar.  Educated at Big Qua Presbyterian Primary School , Hope Waddell Training Institution and the Polytechnic Calabar , he served as a Building Technologist in t...

  The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South South Development Commission (SSDC), Ms. Usoro Akpabio , has been appointed into the National Campaign Council for the forthcoming Ekiti State Governorship Election . Ms. Akpabio was further named a member of the Women’s Mobilisation Committee , a strategic sub-committee of the National Campaign Council tasked with driving grassroots engagement, stakeholder coordination, and voter mobilization efforts ahead of the election. The committee is chaired by Her Excellency, Mrs. Titilayo Laoye-Ponle, with Her Excellency, Mrs. Joke Orelope-Adefulire and Senator Biodun Olujinmi serving as Co-Chairpersons. The National Campaign Council itself is chaired by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani , while the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio , serves as Vice Chairman, alongside several governors, former governors, lawmakers, and key party stakeholders. Her inclusion in the council further underscores her growing nation...

  The Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Public Utilities, Engr. Associate Professor Jerome Egbe , KSM , has congratulated the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu , on the occasion of his third year anniversary in office, describing him as an epitome of infrastructural transformation and purposeful leadership in the state. Egbe made the remarks during an interactive session with members of the media on Friday, May 29, 2026, as part of activities marking the governor’s three years in office. According to the Special Adviser, the celebration of Governor Otu’s administration is not limited to Cross River State alone, noting that people in Abuja and across the diaspora are also identifying with the achievements of the administration. “We are gathered not only in Abuja but also in the diaspora to celebrate an uncommon man who has brought a total turnaround in recalibrating Cross River State,” he stated. He further noted tha...

The Cross River State Representative on the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke , Ph.D., has congratulated the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Sen. Apostle (Dr.) Prince Bassey Edet Otu , on the occasion of his third anniversary in office, describing the milestone as a celebration of purposeful leadership, visionary governance and visible impact across the state. In a goodwill message commemorating the Governor's three years in office, Orok Duke commended Governor Otu for his unwavering commitment to the People First agenda , which he said has continued to redefine governance and accelerate development across critical sectors of the state's economy. According to the NDDC State Representative, the administration has recorded remarkable achievements in infrastructure renewal, economic revitalisation, agricultural development, investment promotion, tourism, environmental sustainability and human capital development, p...

  Distinguished Senator Eteng Jonah Williams , representing Cross River Central Senatorial District in the 10th Senate , has continued to strengthen his reputation as an active and result-driven legislator through the sponsorship of impactful bills and motions aimed at national development and the welfare of his constituents. Since the inauguration of the 10th Senate on June 13, 2023, Senator Williams has emerged as one of the notable voices in the National Assembly, demonstrating commitment to quality representation and legislative excellence within just over two years in office. A core responsibility of every legislator is lawmaking, and Senator Williams has shown remarkable dedication in this regard through the introduction of several strategic bills addressing healthcare, education, mining, agriculture, petroleum engineering, research, and national security. Among the bills sponsored by the lawmaker are: 1. Nigerian Research Institutes Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (SB. 918) – A...

  In commemoration of the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, the Cross River State Representative on the Niger Delta Development Commission ( NDDC ), Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, PhD , has reaffirmed his commitment to child welfare , youth empowerment , and grassroots development by hosting hundreds of children from Wards 4 and 5 of Calabar South Local Government Area . The colourful event, held at Amayo Duke School, Egerton, brought together children, parents, community members, and supporters in an atmosphere filled with excitement, entertainment, and goodwill as participants gathered to celebrate the annual event dedicated to the rights, protection, and future of Nigerian children. Hundreds of enthusiastic children, accompanied by their mothers and guardians, participated in the celebration, which featured the distribution of gifts, food items, and financial support to attendees. Speaking during the event, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke emphasized the importance of investing in children, describing t...

  The Cross River State representative on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Orok Duke, has called on members of the All Progressives Congress in Ward 11, Calabar South Local Government Area, to remain united and intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections. Duke made the appeal during a solidarity and appreciation visit to the ward on May 25, 2026, where party faithful reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu as APC standard bearers for the 2027 elections. Addressing party members and stakeholders in Calabar, the NDDC board member commended Ward 11 for its dedication and strong performance during the party primaries. He described the ward as a major political force in Calabar South, noting that its numerical strength and influence must be consolidated to ensure victory for APC candidates in the forthcoming elections. Duke urged party faithful to remain loyal to the party and shun an...

Politics is full of noise, but every now and then, a moment happens that cuts through the crowd and sends a clear message about influence, relevance and rising political capital. That moment came yesterday when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , during his acceptance speech, specifically acknowledged the solidarity walk organized in his support ahead of 2027 by the City Boy Movement in Cross River State . In a country where many political groups struggle daily for recognition from the centre, that single mention was not ordinary. It was deliberate. And for many politically conscious youths in Cross River State and across the South/South , it confirmed what has become increasingly obvious; the leadership of the City Boy Movement in the geopolitical zone under Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong (Suki) is not only active but strategically visible at the national level. Recognition in politics matters because it reflects access, trust and relevance. Presidents do not randomly mention every support group t...

  In a resounding display of loyalty, unity, and grassroots political strength, Ward 9 in Calabar South Local Government Area erupted with enthusiasm as APC faithful gathered to affirm President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ’s second-term ambition through overwhelming voice votes during the party’s presidential affirmation exercise. The high-profile political gathering reached a fever pitch with the arrival of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke , fondly known as Otu-Ekong , whose presence energized party supporters and reinforced confidence ahead of the 2027 political journey . Addressing the jubilant crowd, the Federal Commissioner passionately canvassed support for the continuity of President Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing that another term for the President would unlock greater opportunities and accelerated development for Cross River State . Rt. Hon. Orok Duke noted that with President Tinubu at the helm, Governor of Cross River State, Apostle Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu , would continue to enjoy...

  For decades, Cross River State has suffered from a development culture where every administration arrives with its own ideas, abandons existing projects and starts fresh monuments to political identity. The result has been waste, abandoned assets and a state constantly restarting its journey instead of building steadily towards a clear destination.  However, with the Federal Government approving certification and compliance processes for the Bakassi Deep Seaport, Governor Bassey Otu may have finally shown Cross River what real continuity in governance looks like. The significance of the project goes beyond maritime trade. It is symbolic.  Although the project was initiated under the administration of former Governor Ben Ayade, Otu has pursued it with seriousness instead of discarding it simply because it did not originate from his government. That is rare in Cross River politics. Ironically, almost every Governor after Donald Duke campaigned on the mantra of continuity...

  The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving public service delivery through sovereign digital infrastructure , artificial intelligence , and accelerated public service digitalisation at the International Civil Service Conference (ICSC) 2026 in Abuja . The conference brought together Heads of Service from different states and countries, senior government officials, reform experts, and technology stakeholders to discuss the future of governance and digital transformation in Africa, using the Nigerian Public Service as a benchmark. Speaking at the event, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack , said the Federal Civil Service was embracing innovation, resilience, and technology-driven reforms to strengthen governance and service delivery. She disclosed that all 38 federal ministries and extra-ministerial departments met the December 2025 deadline to fully digitalise their operations and transition to paperless governance. Accor...

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey , has approved the Professional Women Accountants in Nigeria (PROWAN), Cross River State Chapter’s proposed Children’s Day outreach programme for pupils of the UNICROSS Staff School. The endorsement was made during an official courtesy and working visit by the leadership of PROWAN to the Vice Chancellor’s Office at the institution’s main campus in Calabar on May 20, 2026. PROWAN is the female arm of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). Speaking during the visit, the Vice Chancellor commended the leadership of the UNICROSS Staff School for its readiness to host the initiative. She also commended PROWAN for promoting unity, professionalism and collaboration among women in leadership, noting that the Association continues to dispel the long-held stereotype that professional women cannot effectively work together in support of one another. Addressing UNICROSS staf...

  I join other well-meaning people of Cross River State and beyond, particularly members and faithful of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, in congratulating His Excellency, Apostle Senator Bassey Edet Otu, on his emergence as the consensus governorship candidate of our party. Your overwhelming victory across the 196 council wards in the 18 local government areas of Cross River State is a clear testament to your leadership, people-oriented agenda, and the confidence reposed in you by the people. As the APC flagbearer, your victory with 116,038 votes reflects the overwhelming trust and support of the people of Cross River State in your administration and vision for a greater state. Your Excellency; Your re-election victory is assured, we will work together to deliver over 1,500,000 votes for our dear President, in Cross River State in the 2027 general election. Congratulations once again, Your Excellency. Signed: Dr. Betta Edu 23-05-2026

  The Commissioner representing Cross River State in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke PhD, has congratulated Hon. Effiong Ekarika, for clinching the Calabar South 1 State Constituency ticket for the 2027 State House of Assembly elections on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).  Duke who visited his ward during the primaries on Wednesday commended the people for giving Ekarika the ticket to return to the Assembly. He also said that a leader should not be judged by their first-term performance, but rather by their second term, when they have gained experience in the job. "Since I used to represent this Constituency, I decided to come and solidarise with him and also appreciate... "I didn't support the idea of changing anyone after the first term because you learn the ropes in the first term, second term, you consolidate," Duke stated. With 3,188 backers queuing up behind him, Ekarika's triumphant display of gra...

  My Dear People of Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency , Today, I present to you not just a vision, but a practical and people-centered Development Plan designed to empower our youths, strengthen our communities, and secure a better future for generations yet unborn. Education remains the foundation of every progressive society. A people that invests in knowledge, skills, and innovation can never remain behind. This is why one of the major pillars of our Development Plan is the Educational Discovery Program — a strategic initiative aimed at creating opportunities for students, artisans, technicians, apprentices, and young innovators across Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency. Through this program, we shall work tirelessly to provide scholarships and educational support for deserving students, especially those with dreams but limited opportunities. We believe no child should be denied quality education because of financial hardship. Our plan also focuses on promoting technical and vocat...

  Professor Francisca Bassey , Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), undertook a strategic engagement visit to Cyprus International University (CIU) in April 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen UNICROSS’s international partnerships and expand opportunities for academic and research collaboration. During the visit, Professor Bassey was received by Professor Dr. Erbug Celebi, President of CIU, who delivered a comprehensive presentation on the university’s academic and innovation ecosystem. The presentation highlighted CIU’s history, institutional vision, global standing, multicultural learning environment, and sustainability-driven initiatives.  A major highlight of the engagement was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between both institutions, formalising a collaborative partnership initiative championed by the UNICROSS Vice Chancellor. Professor Bassey also held high-level discussions with Mr. Mete Boyaci, Chancellor of C...

Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations,Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim,CFR has directed the Permanent Mission of Nigeria in New York to open a bank account with within seven days, describing the absence of such relationship for over 42 years as unacceptable. Ambassador Ibrahim gave the directive during a meeting with officials of UBA in New York, where he stressed the importance of supporting Nigerian-owned businesses abroad as part of the Federal Government’s local content and public-private partnership drive . According to a statement signed by his media office in the New York, it was surprising that despite both UBA and the Nigerian Mission operating in New York for over four decades, no official banking relationship existed between them. “Let me thank you for taking the time to come and see me. While reviewing our account, I asked the Financial Attaché if he was aware that UBA is here in New York, and he confirmed he was. "However, I am surprised to learn that ...

  Senator Eteng Williams has dismissed speculation that he has withdrawn from the 2027 race for the Cross River Central Senatorial District seat, maintaining that he remains firmly in contention under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Williams, who is seeking re-election for a second term, described reports suggesting he had stepped down as false and misleading. Speaking on Monday in Mkpani , Yakurr Local Government Area , the senator said he was reacting to rumours circulating across Cross River State alleging that he had backed out of the contest. According to him, such claims do not represent his position or political ambition. Williams expressed strong confidence in both securing the APC ticket and emerging victorious in the general election. “I am confident of winning the election eventually. Nothing can stop my victory,” he declared. He said he had engaged in wide consultations with stakeholders and constituents, adding that the overwhelming support he enjoys is visible...

  Nigeria has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure global backing for its proposed State Police initiative , describing the reform as a strategic step toward tackling insecurity, strengthening public trust, and improving police accountability across the country. Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim , made this known while hosting United Nations Police Advisers in New York, where he outlined President Bola Tinubu ’s commitment to overhauling Nigeria’s policing architecture through decentralisation and institutional reforms. According to Ibrahim, Nigeria’s impressive performance in international peacekeeping and policing missions under the UN framework has further reinforced the Federal Government’s resolve to establish State Police as part of broader security sector reforms. He noted that the proposed policing structure is designed to enhance crime prevention, improve operational efficiency, and ensure more effective deployment of manpow...