Detailing News

Distinguished Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, was given a rousing reception by the people of Bahumono during a town hall meeting held on Sunday, April 20, 2025, in Ebom community, Abi Local Government Area. The event, organized by the Bahumono Peace and Development Union, offered an opportunity for the people to express their aspirations and appreciation for the Senator’s unwavering commitment to grassroots development. In a heartfelt address of welcome, community leaders and stakeholders praised Senator Williams for his outstanding service, particularly in critical areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and human capital development. His numerous interventions across these sectors were acknowledged as having significantly uplifted the welfare and living standards of the people. The Bahumono community specifically commended Senator Williams for his leading role in facilitating the construction of the Ndibe Bridge and Road P...

  The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, CON and other members of the party's National Working Committee, NWC will on Friday, 2nd, May, 2025 attend a Special Appreciation Dinner organized by an Abuja based socio-political group, Coalition of Ganduje Support Groups, CGSG-Abuja. The event, according to the Convener of C-GSG-Abuja, Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim, MFR is to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Dr. Ganduje and other NWC members into various boards of the nation's institutions. "CGSG-ABUJA has concluded plans to host our performing and result oriented National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, members of the National Working Committee, NWC and political associates and friends of the Chairman in a colourful dinner to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership style", Dr. Aliyu noted. The CGSG-ABUJA Convener also added that the occasion will be used to rally support for the Ganduje led N...

  By Our Correspondent  Calm has returned to Etung Local Government Area following a swift and strategic intervention by political stakeholders aimed at resolving a brewing crisis within the Etung Legislative Council. The tension stemmed from an attempted impeachment of the Council Leader, Hon. Ekubnse ThankGod, by some councillors. In a closed-door reconciliation meeting convened at the residence of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Etung’s political heavyweights—past and present—gathered to douse the flames and foster unity within the council. Among those in attendance were the council chairman, councillors, political appointees, former local government chairmen, and other influential figures from the area. Speaking after the meeting, Prof. Owan-Enoh described the outcome as “constructive and unifying,” stating that the deliberations allowed both the embattled Council Leader and the councillors to openly address their grievances in an atmo...

The All Progressives Congress, APC Intellectual Resource Center would play a vital role in impacting the ideals of progressive governance in Nigeria. The Director General, DG of the  National Productivity Center, NPC, Dr. Bafa Baba Dan Angundi dropped this hints during a courtesy visit of The Progressive Institute, TPI at his office in Abuja last Thursday. Led by its Director General, DG, Lanre Adebayo, PhD, The Progressive Institute, TPI was at the NPC to introduce the institute and seek the support of NPC management in actualizing the mandate of TPI.  Dr. Adebayo who was accompanied by the Director of Program and Training, Malam Muhammad Sanusi-Kiru, the Director of Legal services,  Barrister Ego Queen-Ezuma, Director of Finance and Account Dr. Ibor Bassey highlights the achievements and challenges of the institute, noting that APC is the best thing to happen to Nigeria with the establishment of TPI. The DG of TPI added that APC is ready to bring Nigeria to the highest ...

  The Nigerian Senate has taken a significant step towards addressing the rising cost of data services in the country, following a motion moved by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong. Raising concerns over the relentless increase in data prices, Senator Ekpenyong emphasized that access to affordable and reliable internet is crucial for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity among young Nigerians. He warned that the continuous hike in data costs by telecom companies could stifle digital growth and widen the digital divide at a time when the world is fully immersed in the Fourth Industrial Revolution—dominated by the Internet of Things. Acknowledging the critical role of internet accessibility in national development, the Senate adopted all the prayers of the motion and expanded its scope to include other services offered by telecom providers. Senator Ekpenyong expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their support, as the Senate now seeks urgent interventions to ensure Nigeria...

Over the last eight years, Cross River State witnessed an avalanche of appointments under Ayade's administration, an initiative famously christened "Food on the Table." This program enrolled hundreds of youths onto the state's payroll, providing them with salaries for the duration of the administration. Upon assuming office, Sen. Bassey Otu introduced a more sustainable and enduring initiative, the "Skills-in-the-Hands," aimed at empowering young Cross Riverians to create wealth and achieve financial independence, elevating individuals to heights they never thought possible. In a country where unemployment rates have reached unprecedented levels, leaving millions of graduates in uncertainty and susceptible to various crimes, including fraud, kidnapping and other serious offenses, the importance of empowering youths with skills and setting them up cannot be overstated. Equipping them for financial independence paves the way for economic freedom for countless ...

  The member representing Yakurr 1 State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Cyril Omini, has urged local government councillors to remain steadfast in advocating for the interests of their communities in their legislative roles.  He made this appeal during a presentation at the three-day Capacity-Building and Utilization Workshop for Local Government Legislative Councils, held at Landmark Hotel in Ogoja.  The event, themed "Building Institutions to Deliver Service and Facilitate Sustainable Development in the Local Government Systems," was organized by the Cross River State Government in collaboration with the Center for Community Policy and Strategic Development (CCPSD). In his presentation titled "Understanding the Critical Role of Local Government Legislators in Facilitating Sustainable Community Development," Hon. Omini emphasized the crucial role of local legislators in crafting policies that directly influence the welfare of citizens...

  The Cross River State Government (CRSG), through the Ministry of Local Government Affairs, in partnership with the Center for Community Policy and Strategic Development (CCPSD), on Tuesday, commenced a three-day capacity-building and utilization training for local government councillors, clerks, and legislative officers across the state. The workshop, themed "Building Institutions to Deliver Service and Facilitate Sustainable Development in the Local Government Systems," held at Landmark Hotel, Ogoja, for participants from the Northern Senatorial District. Declaring the event open, the Deputy Governor of the State, Rt. Hon Peter Odey  Ph.D, represented by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jnr  emphasized the crucial role of local government legislators in strengthening democracy and governance. He noted that enhancing their capacity would lead to improved decision-making and service delivery in their respective communities and Local Gover...

  Former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has weighed in on the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling for an open and transparent investigation to uphold the integrity of the Senate.  In a statement posted on his Twitter handle, Saraki expressed deep concern over the negative impact of the controversy on the sanctity, public perception, and credibility of the Senate. He emphasised that individuals come and go, but the institution must be protected at all costs. “I have watched from afar the recent development in the Senate between the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Senator from Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. It is a development that has made me sad because of its overall negative effect on the integrity, sanctity, image, and public perception of the institution," Saraki stated. He urged all parties involved, including their supporters within and outside the chamber,...

  Few figures have divided opinions and families across Nigeria as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan [Kogi Central, PDP] has in the past two weeks. Fewer have navigated controversy and legal brinkmanship with the same unyielding intensity. Her career, marked by a relentless pursuit of influence and a penchant for turning personal grievances into public legal battles, reads like an intriguing but dramatic saga of passion and retribution. While the media has been inundated with stories about the recent seat arrangement and her unwillingness to follow Senate rules, her latest response is a legal action against the leader of the chambers. In a claim filed by her legal counsel, Victor Giwa, who has emerged as a key figure in her battles, she is demanding N100 billion in general damages for defamation and N300 million in litigation costs. Therefore, as one delves into her storied past, a clear pattern emerges: For Natasha, leveraging legal threats and high-stakes litigation is not merely a...

By Kelvin Obambon  Cross River Governor, Prince Bassey Otu has eased political tension that emanates from an alleged face-off with some members of the National Assembly in the state. Responding to question bothering on the issue during a media chat in Calabar on Tuesday, the governor stated that he has no problem with any member of the National Assembly. He cautioned people against dwelling on social media narratives to form opinions about governance in the state. He said as governor, his primary concern is the development of the state, and that everyone must work to deliver on their mandate. He added that 2027 politics cannot take the place of governance, as it was too early to start talking about election that is two years ahead. "I am not against anybody and all those are social media skirmishes, I believe everyone must deliver on their mandate," the governor stated. The political space in Cross River has been tensed in recent time following rumours, especially on social m...

Senator Representing Cross River Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly is set to commission 9 (Nine) new projects to improve the lives of residents in Cross River Central Senatorial District.  The Senator has constructed and completed solar-powered water boreholes, which will provide much-needed access to clean water to rural communities in the area.  For years, residents of the benefiting communities have struggled with water scarcity, a problem now significantly alleviated by Senator William's initiative. The solar-powered boreholes will not only deliver clean water but also help prevent waterborne diseases like cholera, contributing to a significant improvement in public health. Community leader, Ewono Edom, from Ababene, thanked Senator Williams for his dedication to addressing the pressing needs of the people, adding, “This project will significantly improve the quality of life for everyone in our community.” This project underscores the Senator's ongoing c...

  In a move aimed at strengthening ties and advancing developmental goals, Senator Representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Williams today visited the Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, at his office. The visit underscores Senator William’s commitment to building strategic relationships that can deliver tangible benefits to his constituency  During the meeting, Senator Williams highlighted key areas of interest, including security, infrastructure, and opportunities for human capital development, all aimed at addressing the needs of his constituency. He commended the Minister for his proactive approach to interior affairs and reiterated the importance of collaboration between legislators and the executive to ensure effective service delivery. The Senator’s visit reflects his dedication to leveraging partnerships for the advancement of his people, ensuring they receive the attention and resources needed to foster progress and sus...

  Hon. Bassey Ina Ibor Ph.D. has been appointed as the Director of Finance and Accounts of The Progressive Institute (TPI), a policy think tank and intellectual resource center of the All Progressives Congress (APC).  He holds an impressive array of academic credentials, including a Ph.D. in Finance from the University of Calabar, an M.Sc. in Banking and Finance, and an MBA.  His appointment follows his distinguished career in the financial services sector, where he has spent over 40 years specializing in accounting, audit, banking, and financial services marketing.  Dr. Ibor, a distinguished Nigerian financial expert, brings a wealth of experience to his new role, cementing his position as a key player in the advancement of the party’s objectives. His professional qualifications are equally extensive, with fellowship status in several renowned institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, and t...

  As the political landscape heats up for the 2027 elections, the Cross River State chapter of Nigeria Youths for Atiku (NYFA) has urged Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to declare his intention to run for President. This call was made during a stakeholders meeting that also marked the celebration of Atiku’s birthday in the state. Comrade Victor Bassey, the NYFA State Coordinator and spokesman, led the press briefing at the PDP conference hall, where he expressed strong support for Atiku and highlighted his 5-point agenda as a blueprint for national progress. Bassey, alongside other PDP leaders, praised Atiku for his leadership qualities, describing him as a visionary and dedicated advocate for youth development. In a unanimous call for Atiku to contest the 2027 elections, stakeholders from various local government areas emphasized his unifying leadership, extensive political experience, and historic achievements. Hon. Bassey Eyo, representing ward coordinators across Cross River, and Chief G...

  Distinguished Senator Eteng Jonah Williams representing Cross River Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly has again facilitated another landmark training for over 200 constituents on Agric Entrepreneurship.  The two-Days intensive program which commenced on Thursday, 14th November and ended on Friday, 15th November 2024 at Gold Palm Hotel, Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State, saw participants drawn from the 66 wards of the Senatorial district being trained in various aspects of Agric entrepreneurship. Declaring the event open, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams represented by the Newly Appointed Secretary of Ikom Local Government Council, Hon. Edo Owan charged the beneficiaries of the two-day training to utilize the knowledge acquired to improve their economic status,  become self-reliant and employers of labour to boost the overall Gross Domestic Product of the nation. While acknowledging the current hardship Nigerians are facing, Senator Williams'...

The Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) has officially presented a Certificate of Return to Mr. Yibala Igiri Inyang, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), following his victory in the November 2 Chairmanship election for Yakurr Local Government Area. During the presentation ceremony held on Sunday, Dr. Ekong Bocco, the Chairman of CROSIEC, extended his congratulations to Mr. Inyang and the other newly elected chairpersons.  Dr. Bocco stated the vital role of local government councils in democratic governance, stressing the need for leaders to fulfill their campaign promises and to address the responsibilities that come with their positions. Reflecting on the recent elections, Dr. Bocco noted the decisive success of the APC, noting that the party's sweeping victory across Cross River State symbolizes a significant shift in the state's political landscape. “With the APC securing all 18 chairmanship seats and 196 councillorship positions, t...

The Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) has officially declared Yibala Igiri Inyang of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the recently concluded Chairmanship election in Yakurr Local Government Area.  Inyang secured a decisive victory, amassing a total of 74,792 votes, which significantly outpaced his competitors.  The runner-up, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, garnered just 1,242 votes, marking a substantial margin of victory. Following the announcement, Inyang expressed his gratitude in a heartfelt letter to the people of Yakurr.  In his "Letter of Appreciation," he commended the community's unity and resilience, stating that the victory belongs to the people of Yakurr who have long dreamed of a brighter future. “This mandate is a call to action,” he wrote, emphasizing his dedication to turning this trust into tangible progress.  He assured residents that his administration will focus on empowering youth, enh...

  The Cross River state NDDC Representative Rt. Hon. Orok Duke has admonished Cross Riverians to turn out enmass to vote for their preferred candidates in the November 2 local government elections in the state. Duke who made the call while speaking with newsmen urged Cross Riverians to see this as an opportunity to elect credible leaders who will foster development and effective representation at the grassroot level. According to him, “the wards and local governments are the strata of government closest to the grassroot and represents the foundation of governance, so the need to elect credible leaders at that level cannot be overemphasized”. While calling on the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) to ensure a level playing ground for all candidates, he encouraged electorates to trust the electoral umpire to deliver a free, fair and credible election. He said: “while going out on Saturday to exercise your franchise, ensure to conduct yourself peacefully, adh...

  By Itam Offor The Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu has proposed 498 Billion as the State's budget for the 2025 fiscal year. The proposed budget tagged; "Budget of Sustainable Growth" earmarked 328 billion (66%) as Capital Expenditure and 170(34%)for Recurrent Expenditure. A further breakdown shows  that N100 billion was earmarked for Infrastructure, N81 billion for Education , N25 billion for Health while N20 billion was set aside for the Judiciary. Others include N18 billion for House of  Assembly, 16 billion for Aviation, 15 billion for Special Duties/ Intergovernmental Affairs, 14 billion for Power,11 billion for Agriculture,5 billion for Tourism, 4.7billion for Science Technology and lnnovation, 3.7billion for Women Affairs, 3 billion for lnformation and 181.6 billion for others. The Governor further highlighted that Federal Allocation, Grants from International Organizations, and Internally Generated  Revenue (IGR) are the major reven...