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City Boy Movement Hail Cross Riverians for Massive Turnout at APC Presidential Rally

The City Boy Movement in Cross River State has thanked the people of the state for their massive turnout at Monday’s APC presidential campaign rally in Calabar , describing it as a strong reaffirmation of their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , Governor Bassey Otu and their party, the All Progressives Congress, APC . The rally, which attracted a mammoth crowd, featured Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima , who represented President Tinubu at the event. In a statement issued after the rally, the Director of Media of the Movement in Cross River State, Dr. Inyali Peter , said the impressive turnout demonstrated the confidence of Cross Riverians in the leadership of the APC both at the national and state levels. He noted that the people’s support reflected their understanding of President Tinubu’s achievements and the necessity of the reforms introduced by his administration to reposition the country and place it on a steady path to greatness. Inyali also attributed the gr...

MKPANI RESIDENTS RALLY BEHIND WILLIAMS, DECLARE SUPPORT FOR TINUBU’S 2027 RE-ELECTION

  Hundreds of residents of Mkpani community in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State have expressed support for Senator Eteng Jonah Williams , commending his representation in the Senate despite the All Progressives Congress (APC) not granting him a return ticket. The residents made their position known on Friday night when the senator visited his hometown, where he was received by a large crowd of supporters who accompanied him through major streets of the community in a show of appreciation for his contributions. The gathering also provided an opportunity for the residents to declare their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general election. Eteng, who represents Cross River Central Senatorial District and serves as Deputy Director-General (South-South) of the Tinubu Support Group (TSG), was welcomed with placards bearing messages of appreciation and solidarity. Some of the inscriptions read: "Eteng, we are thankful fo...

UNICROSS Introduces Monthly Staff Keep-Fit Exercise to Promote Wellness, Productivity

  The Management of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has introduced a monthly staff keep-fit programme aimed at promoting physical well-being, improving staff health and enhancing productivity. The inaugural exercise, held on Friday, October 30, 2026, attracted members of the academic and non-academic staff of the university, who participated in a walk and aerobic exercises designed to encourage physical fitness and healthy living. Speaking at the exercise, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey , represented by the Dean of Engineering and Dean of Deans, Prof. Simon Ogbeche Odey , commended staff for their participation and described the initiative as an important step towards building a healthier and more productive workforce. Prof. Odey disclosed that the keep-fit exercise would henceforth hold on the last Friday of every month, noting that regular physical activity could help prevent certain ailments, including high blood pressure . He also encouraged staff to...

City Boy Movement Extends Structure Across Cross River Central

  The City Boy Movement in Cross River State has launched its Local Government Area (LGA) chapters in Ikom , Boki, Obubra and Etung, extending its grassroots mobilization drive across the Central Senatorial District . The exercise, led by the State Director of the Movement, Hon. Eyo Ita , forms part of the ongoing statewide mobilization tour.  Speaking , he charged youths in the central district to embrace the movement by registering with the organization and take a more active role in the political process. He urged them to mobilise support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu , Governor Bassey Otu and other All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates across the state, stressing the importance of youth participation in the political process . The Cross River Central Coordinator of the Movement, Mr. Paul Ndik, reassured the leadership that young people across the senatorial district remained committed to supporting the President and Governor for continuity. He added...

NUJ Raises Concern Over Media Reportage of NDLEA Incident in Calabar

  The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has expressed concern over reports by some journalists portraying the recent encounter between operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Prince Alobi, a staff member of Radio Nigeria, Canaan City FM 99.5 , in Calabar , in a manner that paints a grim picture of the situation while presenting the individual as a journalist. The Council considers it unfortunate that the incident occurred but is particularly concerned about the narratives emerging from some media reports, which appear to have amplified the situation without adequately establishing the professional status of the individual involved. For clarity, the individual in question is not a journalist and does not belong to the NUJ. The Council therefore urges journalists and media organisations to exercise caution in their reportage and avoid presenting the incident in a way that could mislead the public into believing that a member of ...

NPFFT SUSPENDS SUPPORT FOR TINUBU IN CROSS RIVER, DEMANDS PRESIDENTIAL VISIT, OIL STATUS RESTORATION

  The group also seeks fair representation in federal appointments, resolution of NUPRC promotion disputes and rescheduling of proposed presidential rally. The National Patriotic Front for Tinubu (NPFFT) has announced the temporary suspension of its political support and mobilisation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Cross River State , citing what it described as unresolved grievances over the state's recognition, representation and interests at the federal level. The group, in a press release signed by its Director-General, Castro Ezama , alongside other national and state officers, said the decision was intended to send a strong political signal to the Presidency and the leadership of the ruling party to urgently address issues affecting Cross River State. NPFFT, however, clarified that the decision did not amount to a permanent withdrawal of support for the President, stressing that it remained open to constructive engagement and dialogue with the Federal Government. Accordin...

City Boy Movement Inaugurates LG Chapter Offices in Ogoja, Yala

  The City Boy Movement in Cross River State has inaugurated its local government chapter offices in Ogoja and Yala as part of activities marking the Movement’s statewide tour. The inauguration was performed by the State Director, Hon. Eyo Ita , as the Movement continues its grassroots mobilization drive and expansion of its structures across the state. The tour will proceed today to Ikom, Obubra and Etung Local Government Areas in Cross River Central Senatorial district , where additional chapter offices will be inaugurated. The exercise is part of the Movement’s efforts to strengthen its presence at the grassroots and coordinate its activities across the state ahead of the 2027 general elections .

OBAN–NSAN ROAD PROJECT RAISES HOPE FOR AKAMKPA COMMUNITIES

  Work is progressing on the 28.5-kilometre Oban–Nsan Road project in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State , raising hopes of improved connectivity, easier transportation and expanded economic opportunities for residents. The project, which connects Akamkpa Constituencies I and II, forms part of the state government’s efforts to strengthen road infrastructure and improve access to communities across the state. During an on-the-spot assessment, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Dr. Pius Edet Ankpo , accompanied by the Senior Special Assistant, Engr. Okokon Inyang, confirmed progress on key components of the project. Work completed so far includes road clearing, the construction of 20 culverts, 11 metric bridges and two roundabouts, representing significant milestones in the execution of the project. The road, being constructed by Faithplant Global Construction Company Ltd., is expected to ease the movement of people and goods, improve transpor...

Betta Edu Celebrates 40th Birthday with Benue IDPs, Offers Livelihood Support, Scholarships for Schoolchildren, Others

  As part of activities marking her 40th birthday, Dr Betta Edu on Tuesday celebrated with internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ichwa IDP Camp , Makurdi, Benue State , providing health care for over 10,000 persons from various camps, livelihood support, start-up capital, educational assistance, food and non-food items to vulnerable families. Edu said her choice of spending her birthday with the IDP was not politically motivated but a show of gratitude to God for the gift of life and in service to humanity. She said the health and humanitarian outreach was driven by her genuine passion for people and her desire to give back to society in gratitude to God for preserving her life. Speaking with journalists during the outreach, she said she had visited Benue in 2023, where she met most of them personally and remained committed to supporting displaced families to get back on their feet.  “Today, I am in Benue because it is my birthday. I am here to reach out to thousands of peo...

City Boy Movement Inaugurates Chapters in Obanliku, Obudu, Bekwarra

  The Cross River State Chapter of the City Boy Movement has inaugurated its Local Government Area (LGA) chapters in Obanliku , Obudu and Bekwarra , as part of efforts to strengthen its grassroots structures ahead of the 2027 general elections . The inauguration ceremonies featured the unveiling of the movement’s LGA, ward and polling unit structures, alongside the official unveiling of its LGA secretariat to support coordination, mobilization and grassroots engagement. Speaking at the separate events, State Director, Hon. Eyo Ita, charged the newly inaugurated executives to take the message of the Renewed Hope Agenda to every ward and polling unit, stressing the need for sustained grassroots engagement and effective mobilisation across Cross River State. On his part, Cross River North Coordinator of the group, Barr. Paul Ishabo said that the initiative was aimed at consolidating support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Cross River State Governor , Senator Bassey Otu , whil...

Dr Janet Ekpenyong Celebrates Dr Betta Edu at 40, Hails Her Remarkable Contributions to Humanity, Healthcare and National Development

  Former Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Janet Ekpenyong , has congratulated Dr Betta Edu on the occasion of her 40th birthday, describing her as one of Nigeria’s brightest stars whose contributions to healthcare, humanitarian services and national development have continued to make a remarkable impact. Dr Ekpenyong commended Dr Edu’s exceptional leadership, dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians, noting that her achievements across various levels of government reflect a passion for service and a determination to make a difference. She recalled Dr Edu’s remarkable contributions as Director-General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, where she has demonstrated outstanding zeal and compassion for the people by advancing primary healthcare delivery , extending essential health services to rural communities and improving access to healthcare in underserved areas where such services were pr...

UNICROSS SUG President Disowns Cultism Allegations, NACRISS Seeks Police Clarification

  The President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Comr. Ogar Favour Johobe , popularly known as Noble, has dissociated himself from allegations of cult-related activities following his arrest and subsequent release by the police in connection with an incident near the University of Calabar (UNICAL). In a public statement, Johobe explained that his visit to UNICAL on Thursday, October 22, 2026, was to consult with a friend intending to contest for a position in the National Association of Cross River State Students (NACRISS) Worldwide , following the dissolution of its previous administration.  He denied involvement in cultism or any unlawful activity and called on the Cross River State Police Command to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and correct any misleading information. Following his arrest, Naija Confra published a Facebook report identifying him among 11 male suspects arrested during a joint se...

Betta Edu at 40: A rare Gloom of Grace, Grit and Greatness

  By Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair   Birthday tributes are no lengthy religious sermons, but how does one describe in few words a vibrant young in age but exudes the wisdom of a 90 year old?  A woman whose life is defined by fierce empathy for the downtrodden, unwavering service to humanity, and uncompromising love for country?  At 40 Dr. Betta Edu remains a role model for young people, especially young women, uncertain of life directions. As Co-Director of Women Mobilisation of the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), she brings uncommon verve, strategic dexterity and infectious energy to the task of galvanising Nigerian women behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ’s re-election bid.  Her outings so far have been marked by purposeful engagement, formidable grassroots mobilisation, and a refreshing demonstration of political commitment. At the inauguration of the APC PCC, Edu distinguished herself with dignified conduct, measured eloquence, and inspiring remarks t...

Orok Duke: ‘Until the Lion Writes Its Story, the Hunter Takes the Glory’

Cross River author and politician Rt. Hon. (Otuekong) Orok Otu Duke, Ph.D., has called on minority communities to begin documenting their personal and collective histories, insisting that silence allows others to define their past. Speaking to journalists at the Ernest Etim-Bassey Press Centre in Calabar , Duke linked the appeal directly to his forthcoming presentation of five new books in Abuja on November 5. “Until the lion learns to write ” Duke repeatedly returned to a familiar proverb to drive home his point. “Until the lion learns how to write his own story, the story of the hunt will always celebrate the hunter,” he said. He explained that many communities, particularly those in minority areas, routinely fail to record their experiences — the good, the bad and the not-so-good. The result, he argued, is the gradual loss of communal information, culture and historical memory. “On my own, I found out that a lot of times, we fail to document things about us,” Duke said. “If we do...

Dr. Ekpenyong Urges Nigerians to Embrace Hygiene to Curb Spread of Infectious Diseases

  Public health practitioner and former Cross River State Commissioner for Health , Dr Janet Ekpenyong , has urged Nigerians to maintain proper personal and environmental hygiene as a key measure to prevent the spread of infectious diseases . Dr Ekpenyong made the call while speaking on the Silverbird Breakfast Show on Monday, expressing concern over the reported number of people currently under surveillance for the deadly Ebola virus disease , as the disease exposes how easy it is for infection to cross borders and the challenges faced by global health systems. She explained that Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with the blood and other bodily fluids of an infected person or contaminated materials, stressing the need for strict adherence to preventive measures to minimize the risk of infection, especially in state with reported case already. The former commissioner called on operators of public facilities and other places of public interest to provide functional hand...

Castro Ezama Pays School Fees, Awards Scholarship to Student Sent Home Over Unpaid Fees

  Former Special Adviser on Education, Castro Ezama , has paid the school fees of Alice Williams , a Junior Secondary School Three (JSS3) student of Government Secondary School, Akim Quo Town, Calabar , after meeting her on Marian Road , where she was heading home after being sent away from school over unpaid fees. Ezama, who disclosed this in a statement following the encounter, said he decided to follow Alice to her home, where he met her father, Mr. Okon Williams Friday, a transport officer with Calabar South Local Government Area, who is battling prostate cancer . According to him, the family has been facing severe financial difficulties, with the father's medical condition and treatment expenses reportedly making it difficult for him to meet the family's educational and other basic needs. Ezama said the financial strain had become so overwhelming that Williams could no longer sustain the medical bills at the Navy Reference Hospital . Moved by the family's circums...

EndSARS: Orok Duke Reflects on 20-10-20, Urges Gen Z to Turn Protest Memories into Purpose

Many families are in pains today because their  Means ofivelihood are in flames. Many travellers have strayed and been stranded on the roads, Because we blocked and inhabited the roads. Many have been killed by vagrant And migrant Deviants: Thus distorting, Dislocating, Dissing And disparaging Genuine dissention, With infernal intentions You now have the microphone , Be our megaphone , Melt the quagmire , Acquire  The pedestal , In places of your natal. You need to be heard, Go on and beard The lion in his den. Then, Perspire And expire, For your respite And moment have come. When a mighty animal falls, Different sizes and types of knives  Are bound to come to town, To join the feast - Different beasts abound And the beat goes on. When once you give up the boundary , It will never hold the same again. You cannot stay trapped In one moment forever; Let memory loosen its grip. He who must control the choir, Must focus On the choristers And blend his magnum opus , But,with h...

EVIDENCE GROUP HAS COME TO STAY- HON. PIUS EDET

  The Cross River State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Edet Ankpo , has declared that the Evidence Group has come to stay, reaffirming the group’s commitment to documenting government achievements and showcasing developmental projects across the state. The Commissioner made the declaration during the Evidence Group event held in Akamkpa Local Government Area , where the importance of evidence-based communication and the documentation of government projects was highlighted. The Evidence Group, with coordinators across local government areas and wards, is focused on documenting ongoing and completed projects, providing verifiable information on government interventions, and keeping citizens informed about developmental activities across Cross River State. Hon. Ankpo’s declaration further reinforces the group’s resolve to promote factual reporting of government activities and showcase projects being executed under the People First administration of Governor Bas...

City Boy Movement Begins Cross River Tour, Inaugurates LG Offices October 27

  The City Boy Movement in Cross River State will commence a statewide tour on October 27, 2026, with the inauguration of local government offices and registration centres as part of efforts to expand its grassroots presence and strengthen its organizational structure across the state. The tour will begin in the Northern Senatorial District , with visits to Obudu , Bekwarra and Obanliku on October 27, followed by Ogoja and Yala on October 28. The Movement will proceed to the Central Senatorial District on October 29, covering Ikom, Boki and Etung, before visiting Obubra, Yakurr and Abi on October 30. Beyond the inauguration of offices, the tour will provide an opportunity to mobilize new members and encourage interested residents to formally register with the Movement. It will also feature engagements focused on communicating the gains of the policies and reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ’s Renewed Hope Administration , alongside Governor Bassey Otu ’s People First ag...