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UNICROSS, Emergency Agencies Strengthen Collaboration on Flood Disaster Management

  The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has strengthened its collaboration with key emergency management agencies following an assessment of flood-affected areas within and around the University community. The engagement, held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, brought together officials of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Nigerian Red Cross Society to assess the impact of flooding on residents and University facilities, as well as explore practical measures to mitigate future occurrences. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Thomas Ojikpong, represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey , at the engagement. Also present were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Stella Maris Okey, and other members of the University Management. The visiting delegation was led by the Director-General of SEMA, Mr. Efa Nyong , who explained that the agencies had received a communication from...

C’River-Born EFCC Assistant Commander Appointed Professor of Practice by Miva University

  Cross River State-born Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Assistant Commander and accomplished anti-corruption professional, Dr. David Olom Nkpe, has been appointed Professor of Practice in Criminology and Security Studies by Miva Open University. Dr. Nkpe, an experienced law-enforcement practitioner and criminology scholar, brings extensive practical experience in economic and financial crime investigation, anti-corruption enforcement and security studies to the university’s School of Management and Social Sciences. The three-year appointment, effective September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2029, recognises his professional expertise and contribution to the advancement of criminology, security and anti-corruption practice. As Professor of Practice, Dr. Nkpe will contribute to selected academic activities, including guest lectures, masterclasses, workshops, curriculum development and mentorship of students and faculty, thereby bridging professional practice and academic s...

CRS-NIPR REAFFIRMS TIES WITH COMMISSIONER FOR LANDS, DR. ERASMUS EKPANG

  The Executive Council (Exco), led by Pastor Augustine Mboso, PhD, mnipr , alongside Fellows, Elders and members, on Tuesday, 15th September 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Hon. Commissioner for Lands , Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, mnipr . The meeting was a special one, which can be described as "a family meeting". The State Chairman, Pastor Mboso, emphasized the positive impact Dr. Erasmus has made on CRS-NIPR and the State as a whole, especially his useful contributions towards the proposed Reputation House . Members were excited to meet with the Commissioner, particularly because of his lasting impact on the Chapter. The Commissioner reiterated that he will continually be an impactful member of the Institute and will give all the necessary support needed to achieve set objectives. In his words, "I will be that backbone you have always known." He stressed the need for all Cross River State indigenes to continually pray for and thank the First Family, His Excellency, ...

Governor Otu has brought stability, continuity to governance in Cross River - Orok Duke

  Cross River NDDC Rep, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke PhD , has commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration , stating that his leadership style has restored political stability and institutional continuity to the state.  Speaking in Calabar during a media chat, the NDDC Rep explained that Governor Otu’s governance approach focuses on building upon past achievements rather than abandoning previous projects, a trend that historically disrupted public infrastructure and state resources. He noted that Governor Otu’s "People First" agenda has created a calm political atmosphere across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state. He stated that by engaging political stakeholders, traditional institutions, and past leadership, the governor has fostered an inclusive environment focused on progress.  "Governance is a continuum. What Governor Bassey Otu has achieved is providing a calm, focused, and steady direction for Cross River," Duke stated. "Instead of discarding init...

UNICROSS Commences Second Semester Exams as VC Inspects Examination Venues

  The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has commenced its Second Semester Examinations for the 2025/2026 Academic Session, with the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey , inspecting examination venues at the Calabar Campus to monitor the conduct and progress of the examinations. On Day One of the examinations, Monday, September 14, 2026, the Vice Chancellor, accompanied by members of the University Management, interacted with students and examination officials, as part of efforts to ensure a smooth, orderly and credible examination process. At Edu Hall 1 in the Faculty of Education, the Vice Chancellor cancelled an examination in Adult Education and Community Development following non-compliance with examination rules by both students and invigilators. According to the Head of Department of Educational Foundation, Dr. Moses Ewa , Adult Education and Community Development is domiciled in the Department of Educational Foundation and is serviced to all Departments in the...

Ukelle Town Hall Meeting: Dr Okputu Highlights North Ukelle Road Project

  ... Hon Hippolatus, Dr Achadu, Ukelle Traditional Ruler's Council Caution Ukelle Youths Against Destructive Use of Social Media Use  Ukelle leaders, traditional rulers and youths across Ukelle have called on the people of Ukelle to engage government constructively and sustain their advocacy in a positive light for the development of the area particularly the completion of the 5KM North Ukelle Road project and other amenities. They made this disclosure on Monday during a Town Hall meeting in Wanokom, North Ukelle. Dr Julius Okputu, one of the leaders at the forefront said the purpose of the gathering was closely connected to the long standing development challenges facing the Ukelle people and the efforts of successive administrations to address them. He recalled that Ukelle was the first of the 25 state constituencies visited by Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu after his election. According to him, the Governor was received at the Cross River and Ebonyi bo...

Edet Hails Renewed APC Unity in Akamkpa, Says Reconciliation Key to 2027 Victory

  The Cross River State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Ankpo Edet , has expressed satisfaction with the renewed spirit of peace, reconciliation and unity among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akamkpa Local Government Area . Edet spoke at an enlarged meeting of the Liberation Movement in Akamkpa , where he welcomed what he described as a new chapter of unity within the party and urged members to put their past differences behind them in the interest of the APC’s success ahead of the 2027 elections . According to the commissioner, the strength of Akamkpa lies in the ability of its people to forgive, reconcile and move forward as one family. He said a united party would be better positioned to mobilise voters and secure victory at the polls, calling on APC leaders and members across the local government area to close ranks and work collectively for the success of the party at all levels. “The strength of Akamkpa lies in our ability to unit...

Petition against NAICOM to EFCC borders on criminal allegations, not civil matters says NICON, Nigeria Re

  NICON Insurance Plc and Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation have called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to investigate alleged financial irregularities arising from the National Insurance Commission ’s recent recapitalisation exercise . The companies made the call in a joint statement issued in response to a September 10, 2026 rejoinder by NAICOM on their petition before the EFCC. NICON and Nigeria Re said their petition bordered on alleged criminal conduct and financial accountability, rather than a civil disagreement between an insurance regulator and the companies it regulates. They alleged that NAICOM’s rejoinder failed to address specific issues raised in their petition, particularly the demand for one per cent of shareholders’ funds, the management of funds collected and requirements imposed on insurers during the recapitalisation exercise. The companies alleged that NAICOM demanded one per cent of shareholders’ funds from insurance companies without any prov...

Three Years of Impact: Why Senator Suki’s Record Points to a Sacrosanct 2027 Return

  ​As the 2027 election cycle approaches, the political narrative across Cross River South is increasingly defined not by mere promises, but by verifiable developmental impact. In three years of stewardship in the National Assembly , Senator Suki has established a legislative and constituency record that underscores his moniker as "The People's Senator." ​At the core of Senator Suki's tenure is an active performance on the floor of the Senate, combining strategic lawmaking with regional advocacy: ​21 Bills & 8 Motions: Driving targeted legislative intervention on key socio-economic matters. ​ South South Development Commission Bill : Sponsoring flagship legislation aimed at strengthening regional infrastructure, socio-economic integration, and long-term economic growth across the South South geopolitical zone . ​Senator Suki’s legislative agenda has translated directly into tangible opportunities for constituents through education, employment, and youth support ...

CROSS RIVER GOVERNMENT COMMENCES INTERVENTION WORKS ON FLOOD-PRONE HART STREET

  The Cross River State Government has commenced intervention works on Hart Street in Calabar South , following an on-the-spot assessment of the area by His Excellency, Governor Bassey Edet Otu , about eight weeks ago. The inspection was conducted after the second heavy rainfall in Calabar resulted in flooding across several communities in the metropolis. Hart Street, located in Ward 9, Calabar South, was identified among the areas requiring urgent intervention. The area has experienced recurring flooding over the years, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall, affecting residents, businesses, road users and surrounding properties. The commencement of the intervention is part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to address critical drainage and flood-related challenges across the state. The project is expected to improve stormwater management, reduce flooding, enhance accessibility and provide greater protection for residents and properties within the affected area. The ...

THREE YEARS OF IMPACT: SUKI’S SCORECARD OF PURPOSEFUL REPRESENTATION

  Three years in the Senate have produced a record of active legislation and purposeful representation for the people of Cross River South . Within this period, Distingushed Standard Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has sponsored 21 Bills and 8 Motions, including the all-important South-South Development Commission Bill , reflecting a commitment to issues and giving birth to a regional development commission capable of driving regional development, economic growth and improved opportunities for the people. Beyond legislation, his representation has translated into opportunities for employment and human capital development . 60 Grade A federal jobs have been facilitated for indigenes and residents of Cross River South and wider CRS, while 63 young people have benefited from foreign postgraduate scholarship opportunities . In education, more than 3,700 undergraduate students have received the Back to School/Education Support Initiative , providing meaningful assistance to students and their...

Again, Nigeria Takes Over Chairmanship of UN Peacekeeping Committee As Jimoh Ibrahim Promises Transparency, Accountability

  Nigeria has taken over the chairmanship of the United Nations Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations , popularly known as the Committee of 34 (C-34), with Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim , pledging to lead with transparency, accountability and a strong commitment to the protection of civilians. Ibrahim assumed the chairmanship from Canada, commending the outgoing chairman for what he described as an outstanding contribution to the work of the committee. The Nigerian envoy said the committee would continue to support efforts aimed at strengthening international peace and security, particularly in addressing terrorism and other threats to global stability. He stressed the importance of ensuring that counter-terrorism and peacekeeping operations remained focused on maintaining stability while protecting the interests and welfare of civilians. Ibrahim’s emergence as chairman of the C-34 further strengthens Nigeria’s leadership position ...

UNICROSS VC Inspects Ogoja Campus Projects, Assesses Infrastructure and Development Needs

  The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State ( UNICROSS ), Prof. Francisca Bassey , has undertaken an extensive inspection tour of the University's Ogoja Campus as part of efforts to assess ongoing infrastructural development and identify areas requiring further attention. During the inspection, the Vice Chancellor visited various project sites across the campus, including both previously abandoned projects and those currently under construction. Prof. Bassey and her team carefully assessed the state and quality of work at the different locations, identifying areas requiring correction, improvement or further intervention. The inspection provided an opportunity to evaluate progress on ongoing projects while also considering measures necessary to optimise the available facilities and spaces. The Vice Chancellor emphasised the importance of developing infrastructure that supports effective teaching and learning while providing staff and students with a comfortable...

UNICROSS Holds Sensitisation Programme on Ethics and Anti-Corruption Compliance

  The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Akwa Ibom State Office, Uyo, has held a sensitisation programme on Ethics and Anti-Corruption Compliance , aimed at strengthening ethical conduct, accountability and responsible leadership within the University. The programme, which brought together members of Top and Expanded Management, Deans, Directors, Deputy Deans, Deputy Directors, Deputy Registrars, Professors and other members of the University community, focused on promoting ethical standards, responsible organisational behaviour, protection of public resources and effective compliance with anti-corruption regulations. The initiative reflects the commitment of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey , to building an institution anchored on transparency, accountability, discipline and responsible administration. By creating opportunities for staff to engage directly with...

Nigeria, UK Deepen Diplomatic Ties, British Envoy Commends Tinubu’s Security, Economic Reforms at UN Meeting

The United Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dame Sarah Macintosh, has acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in addressing Nigeria’s security and economic challenges. Macintosh spoke during a meeting with Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, at the Nigeria Mission House in New York. According to a statement by the Office of Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, the diplomats also discussed developments relating to border stability and other areas of mutual interest, as well as ways of strengthening cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The meeting focused on Nigeria’s security and economic development, bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries within the United Nations system. Macintosh and Ibrahim agreed on the importance of continued engagement between Nigeria and the UK, particularly on issues of mutual interest and international coopera...

Labour Party Reaffirms Engr. Okon’s Removal as Eteng Disowns ‘Impostors’ in Cross River

  The leadership crisis rocking the Labour Party in Cross River State has taken a fresh turn, with rival claims emerging over the party’s legitimate leadership and official communications. Lawrence Eno Eteng , who described himself as the authentic State Chairman of the Labour Party in Cross River, has disowned individuals allegedly parading themselves as representatives of the party in the state. Eteng, who reached out to Detailing News in a statement, said he was present at a meeting held at the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Secretariat in Calabar on September 2, 2026, convened by the erstwhile chairman, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon . According to Eteng, the meeting progressed to the point where a motion for the suspension of the chairman was moved, seconded and supported by 11 state party chairmen, after which a press statement was issued. He maintained that the decision reached at the meeting remains the position of the Labour Party in Cross River State. “Whosoever is purpor...

UNGA:Tinubu, Family Enjoy Unimpeded US Transit, Have No Case to Answer; Allegation Is Not a Crime — Jimoh Ibrahim

  Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, says President Bola Tinubu and members of his family enjoy unimpeded transit and cannot be arrested in the United States while attending the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Ibrahim, who is also Chairman of the United Nations Committee on Budget and Administration, said this in a statement issued by the Office of the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations in New York. He said the Nigerian Mission in New York had received no notification from the US government of any restriction on President Tinubu’s movement during the UNGA. Citing Section 11 of the 1947 UN-U.S. Agreement, the envoy said representatives of member states and their families are protected from impediments to transit to and from the UN headquarters district. He explained that the provision requires US federal, state and local authorities to refrain from imposing restrictions on the movement of representatives ...

First Lady Commissions TETFUND ICT Experience Centre Renewed Hope Initiative at UNICROSS

  The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON , on Friday, September 4, 2026, commissioned the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) ICT Experience Centre Renewed Hope Initiative at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Calabar. The commissioning ceremony attracted the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu ; his wife, the First Lady of Cross River State, Her Excellency Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu ; several First Ladies of States; Senator John Owan Enoh , Minister of State for Industry, State and Investment; Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa , Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy; Dr. Mansur Muhtar, OFR , Chairman of the Bank of Industry ; Chairman of the TETFUND Board of Trustees, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari; and the Executive Secretary of TETFUND, Arch. Dr. Sonny Echono . Also in attendance were the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembl...

Shettima @60: Gov Otu Salutes VP’s Loyalty, Reliability, Service to Nigeria

  Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu , has described Vice President Kashim Shettima , GCON, as a loyal, dependable and reliable partner to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , GCFR, whose experience and commitment have continued to strengthen the Renewed Hope Administration . Governor Otu, in a goodwill message conveyed by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar , congratulated the Vice President on his 60th birthday, commending his courage, competence and dedication to public service. The Governor said the strong working relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima has remained critical to the administration’s efforts to tackle the country’s challenges, drive economic growth and improve the welfare of Nigerians. He noted that Shettima’s experience as a former Governor and Senator, coupled with his understanding of governance and national affairs, has positioned him as a valuable asset to the President and the country. Governor Otu also acknowle...

Tinkoriko: Calabar Heritage at 33, Pledges Support for Governor Bassey Otu and President Bola Tinubu Ahead of 2027 Elections

Ordinarily, we would not respond to unfounded criticisms that are baseless, factually inaccurate, about the operations of government institutions and the objectives of Tinkoriko . However, having read the comments that followed the post by Onoyom, we consider it necessary to respond—not because Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke is afraid of criticism, but because it is disturbing to see a number of young and older Cross Riverians embrace some of the assertions in the post, apparently without a proper understanding of how government institutions, particularly the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), operate.this  It is within everyone’s right to act stupidly sometimes, but the likes of Onoyom, Francis Ekpenyong and Joe Edet, are abusing that privilege, obviously. Let us therefore put some facts on the table: Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke is a part-time member of the NDDC Board, representing Cross River State . He is not the Managing Director of the Commission or an Executive nor does he person...