Tag: Otu

(Alphonsus Eba)

By Dianabasi Effiong

Leaders and members of the Cross River State Elders Advisory Council from the Northern Senatorial District have reaffirmed their unwavering support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration.

The elders, operating under the “Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSECF)”, also expressed their disapproval over what they alleged as “irresponsible media outburst” regarding internal party matters by a former State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Alphonsus Eba.

They made this known in a statement on Tuesday signed by seven prominent elders of the district.

The group restated members’ “total commitment and loyalty” to Governor Otu’s administration, adding that they would protect and uphold the government’s progressive intentions.

(Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River)

According to the CRSECF, Eba’s recent public comments, made without consultation, have “embarrassed and ridiculed” the leadership of the senatorial district, the APC, the state, and well-meaning Nigerians.

“The Council dissociates itself from his irresponsible comments regarding an internal APC matter that could have been resolved privately.

“Eba did not consult with the Council, acting solely on his own, and his behavior should not be interpreted as representative of the political leadership of the Northern Senatorial District,” the statement added.

The elders also stated that public office holders should act as stewards of public trust, consulting with constituents and engaging democratically in all decisions.

They stressed that Eba’s actions did not reflect the character of the Northern Senatorial District, which they described as “unique, hardworking, trustworthy, respectful, and peace-loving.”

The CRSECF also appealed to Governor Otu and other party leaders at the state and national levels not to judge the district’s leadership capabilities based on Eba’s conduct.

They passionately requested that the position of State Chairman of the APC be retained within the Northern Senatorial District, adding that there were “credible, sincere, and respectful individuals” capable of leading the party.

“We passionately request that the position of State Chairman of the APC be retained in the Northern Senatorial District,” the statement added.

The statement was endorsed by Prof. John Shiyam (Vice Chairman, North, CRSECF), Dr. Julius Okputu (Secretary, CRSECF), Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), Chief Signor Omang Idiege (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), Chief Dr. Peter Ojie (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), and Hon. Chief Boniface Okache (Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor).

The APC is a major political party unveiled on Feb. 6, 2013, from a merger of opposition parties.

It currently holds the presidency of Nigeria and the governorship position in Cross River and in other South-South states, including a significant number of seats in the National Assembly.

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The Cross River State Government has unveiled a comprehensive package of education policy reforms designed to standardize practices in public and private schools, safeguard pupils’ welfare, and improve data management across the state.

The reforms, approved by His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, were announced earlier today by the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, during a press briefing in Calabar.

The Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Governor for endorsing the reforms, describing them as “a significant step toward achieving holistic, quality education for all Cross River children.”

Key Highlights of the Reforms:

1. Uniform Academic Calendar
All public and private schools must now follow a single approved calendar for opening and closing. Schools that fail to comply risk sanctions, including derecognition and withholding of approval-to-operate (ATO).

2. Graduation Ceremonies
Graduation events are now reserved strictly for certificate classes—Primary 6, JSS3, and SS3. Ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and non-exit classes have been abolished to reduce unnecessary costs for parents.

3. Use of Approved Textbooks
Only Ministry-approved textbooks will be permitted in schools. Publishers are prohibited from embedding workbooks that make textbooks non-transferable, ensuring uniformity, cost savings, and reuse among pupils.

4. School Lessons After 2:00 PM Prohibited
Schools are directed to end classes at 1:00 pm for primary and 2:00 pm for secondary levels. Compulsory after-school lessons are banned to prevent mental fatigue, physical stress, and additional financial burdens on parents. Extra lessons may only occur with parental consent, and the Ministry will not be responsible for any issues arising outside the approved schedule.

5. Establishment of Anti-Drug Clubs
To combat rising drug use among students, every public and private school must establish anti-drug clubs. These clubs will monitor and report incidents, raise awareness, and work with authorities to enforce discipline.

6. Bullying Prevention Measures
Anti-Bullying Committees are now mandatory in all schools. Any student caught bullying will face instant expulsion to deter misconduct. The initiative aims to create a safer and more respectful learning environment.

7. Pupils/Students Index Number System
Beginning with the 2025/2026 academic session, all pupils—from Kindergarten to SS3—will be assigned a unique index number. The new system will improve data accuracy, prevent fraudulent transfers, and streamline admissions. Distribution of index numbers will begin in early 2026 once admission documentation is complete.

Implementation and Compliance:
The Commissioner emphasized that implementation takes effect immediately.
• School managers and proprietors must comply without delay.
• Strict adherence is expected, and violators will face sanctions.
• Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor these reforms and provide feedback to ensure the policies achieve their intended goals.

Commissioner Odey concluded, “These reforms are about safeguarding our children’s future, improving standards, and making Cross River State’s education system a model for others to follow. With the Governor’s support and the cooperation of all stakeholders, we are confident of achieving lasting change.”

#Office_Of_The_Commissioner_For_Education_CRS

By Dianabasi Effiong

Calabar:   Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore the pride of the State’s Civil Service by continually offsetting outstanding retirees’ gratuities.

He made this known on Monday at the swearing-in of the new Head of Service of Cross River State, Orok Okon, at Government House, Calabar.

Okon’s appointment as Permanent Secretary on Sept. 19 followed the retirement of Dr. Innocent Eteng the previous day, paving the way for his elevation as Head of Service.

The governor, who described the Civil Service as the “superstructure” for implementation of government policies, recalled its golden years when, within 2010 and 2013, no fewer than eight states visited Cross River to understudy its organic service structure and operational efficiency.

He noted the decline that followed, adding that his administration would restore its lost glory.

“As we reposition the Civil Service, my administration will continue to prioritise workers’ welfare.

“Monthly salary payment remains sacrosanct, promotions are being implemented as and when due, the yearly incremental step has been restored after eleven years, and, very importantly, we have put plans in place to continue defraying outstanding retirees’ gratuities,” Otu said.

He also charged the new Head of Service to entrench professionalism, fairness, and competence across the workforce.

He stressed the importance of proper record-keeping, digitisation, and continuous staff training, noting that service delivery must be driven by equity, qualification, and due process rather than nepotism or bias.

In his response, Okon expressed gratitude to the governor for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to fully implement the governor’s charge.

“The charge you have given me, both publicly and privately, shall be carried out to the letter with your support, as usual,” he said.

Okon also promised to brief the State Executive Council soon on details of the reform agenda for the Civil Service.

He also pledged close collaboration with Permanent Secretaries and Directors.

He added that though a few challenges remain, the Cross River civil service harbored diligent and hardworking officers who would be supported and rewarded.

“I thank Your Excellency, I thank everyone, and I say God bless this administration and God bless Cross River State,” the new Head of Service said.

By Dianabasi Effiong

Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River State, has expressed his support for the agitation to create Ogoja State out of the present Cross River State.

The governor made this known in Calabar when leaders and stakeholders from nine local government areas – Bekwarra, Boki, Etung
Ikom, Obanliku, Obubra Obudu, Ogoja, and Yala – visited him at the Government House, Calabar, as part of ongoing consultations on the Ogoja State Movement.

The delegation was led by the convener, Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe, alongside prominent political, traditional, and professional leaders from the nine LGAs.

Otu commended Pa Enamhe for his rare leadership qualities and consistency in seeing tasks through to completion, saying that he is “with the movement body and soul.”

He said, “Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe is a man who can be trusted. He has always shown the ability to complete any assignment he sets his mind on. He is dependable and has the gift of bringing people from all walks of life together for a just cause.”

The governor recalled his personal experiences with Enamhe, particularly during the mission to repatriate the remains of the late former Senate President, Sen. Joseph Wayas, from the UK for burial in his hometown.

“We had almost given up, but Enamhe and Johnny Agim, SAN, came to me with confidence that they would bring Wayas home. At first, I doubted them. Even when some tried to discourage me, I gave them my support, and in the end, they delivered. That gave me, and indeed our entire state, a great sense of pride,” Otu recounted.

On the agitation for Ogoja State, Governor Otu aligned himself with the cause, adding that Cross River’s size and diversity justified additional states.

“From Calabar to Obanliku is a long distance. If the Federal Government is to be fair, Cross River deserves at least two additional states, making it three in total. Ogoja State is long overdue,” Otu said.

He also said that the creation of new states had often spurred development in other parts of the country, adding that Ogoja would benefit from greater federal presence and private investment.

He said that an additional state would attract more developers and open doors for growth as in our sister states.

Governor Otu also applauded members of the Southern Initiative, who had declared solidarity with the Ogoja State Movement.

“I am deeply impressed with the support coming from the South. Honestly, I did not expect it to be this strong, and I must thank you all,” he said.

The delegation reflected the Ogoja State Movement’s unity and commitment with prominent leaders from each local government area present.

From Obanliku, Chief Linus Adie and Senator Musa Adede led the group, while former Governor ProfBen Ayade and Prince Jedy Goddy-Agba represented Obudu. Senator Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, and Hon. Justice Maurice Eneji (Rtd) spoke for Bekwarra, and Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba led the Ikom contingent.

The Yala delegation included Sen. Greg Ngaji and Hon. Godwin Offiono, the bill’s sponsor, while Gen. Moses Obi and Hon. Cletus Obun represented Boki.

Etung, Obubra, and Ogoja were equally well-represented by leaders like Sen. John Owan Eno, Mrs. Comfort Otera-Chigbue, and Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, respectively.

Others included Kanu Agabi, SAN, and AVM Clement Ogbeche (rtd), as well as political leaders, traditional rulers, academics, and civil society representatives from the nine LGAs.

The meeting ended on a note of hope and determination, with the Governor’s words echoing in the hearts of the delegates: “Imagine how sad I would be if the Federal Government created new states and Ogoja was left out,” he said.

He urged them to keep pushing forward.

For Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe and Johnny Agim, SAN, the co-conveners, the governor’s support was a powerful endorsement of their vision.

As the delegation left the Government House, delegates who spoke separately, said they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose.

According to them, the dream of Ogoja State, long nurtured by the people of these nine local government areas, now felt closer than ever.

They also said that with the governor’s backing and the unity of their leaders, the Ogoja State Movement would make history.

In a joint statement to acknowledge the delegates’ commitment, the Conveners – Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe and Johnny Agim, SAN – thanked them for their sacrifice and commitment.

“You are all too kind,” they stated, expressing gratitude for the leaders’ unwavering support in the quest for Ogoja State.

They also thanked the governor for his openness and encouragement, pledging to continue to mobilise for the cause of Ogoja State creation.

By Dianabasi Effiong

Calabar (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  In a bid to strengthen security operations and institutional support across Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River, has handed over a fleet of operational vehicles to the Directors of the Homeland Security Service as well as the Provost of the College of Health Technology (COHTECH), Calabar.

The handover ceremony, which took place at the parking lounge of the Governor’s Office in Calabar, underscores the People-First administration’s continued commitment to the protection of lives and property, alongside the enhancement of public service delivery.

Speaking during the event, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to bolster security infrastructure, noting that the vehicles were strictly meant for operational purposes in the service of the people.

“Our state is currently one of the safest in the country, but we are not stopping there. We are working toward a 100 percent safe Cross River. These vehicles are not for pleasure—they are tools meant to protect our people in every part of the state. To complement this effort, we will also be recruiting additional personnel to ensure lasting peace and stability,” he said.

While handing over the vehicle keys, the Governor charged the beneficiaries to uphold accountability, professionalism, and community responsiveness.

“This is a People-First government, and the legitimacy of your offices is determined by the feedback we receive from citizens. If the response is not encouraging, questions will be asked. We expect you to remain proactive, professional, and responsive at all times,” he emphasized.

Governor Otu also hinted at broader plans to roll out entrepreneurship and empowerment initiatives aimed at reducing idleness and increasing productivity across the state.

“We want more than just peace—we want a busy, engaged, and economically productive population. That’s why, in addition to improving security, we’re investing in sustainable enterprises that will empower individuals and families and ultimately uplift the entire state,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of recipients, Mr. Raphael Odu, Director of the Northern Zone, Homeland Security Service, expressed appreciation for the Governor’s continued support and pledged unwavering commitment to the vision of a safer Cross River.

“We are truly grateful for this gesture. Beyond words, we will demonstrate our appreciation through exceptional service and visible results that align with Your Excellency’s vision,” he said.

Alongside the Homeland Security formation, Cross River State also maintains a multi-agency joint task force, Operation Okwok, comprising personnel drawn from various security outfits working collaboratively to uphold peace and order.

By Dianabasi Effiong

Calabar (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  The splendour of the Carnival Calabar annual fiesta was on stage at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, on Thursday night as Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, unveiled “Traces of Time” as the theme for this year’s Carnival.

This was made known in a statement on Friday by Nsa Gill, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the renowned carnival that prides itself on being Africa’s biggest street party.

Governor Otu, joined by two former governors of the state, Mr. Donald Duke and Sen. Liyel Imoke, leaders of the seven competing bands of the carnival, tourism experts, the National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, and a host of other dignitaries, cut the twentieth-anniversary cake for the event, which will be held this December in Calabar.

In his impassioned address, Governor Otu also paid tribute to the founding visionaries of the Carnival and Annual festival – former Governor Donald Duke, his successors in office, Senator Liyel Imoke, and former Governor Prof. Ben Ayade, who also sustained and grew what started in 2005 before he took up the baton in 2023.

“Carnival Calabar is not just a parade of colors; it is a bold expression of our collective dreams, cultural heritage, and economic ingenuity,” Governor Otu said.

He also urged stakeholders to embrace the festival’s renewed vision.

The governor, who celebrated the unsung heroes of the Carnival—the dancers, band leaders, designers, caterers, tailors, and sanitation workers, described them as the “true custodians of Cross River’s cultural pride and resilience.”

He also highlighted innovations introduced under his administration, including the reintroduction of the Junior Carnival, Night of Kings and Queens, the Ikom Carnival, and the Ogoja Carnival.

“We are not just celebrating a carnival; we are celebrating the soul of our people and the heartbeat of Cross River’s tourism and creative economy,” Otu declared.

He invited all the guests at the theme’s unveiling event, including Diplomats, Heads of Foreign Missions, Captains of Industry, and Fun seekers, to witness the twentieth-anniversary of the carnival in Calabar in December 2025.

Earlier, Sir Gabe Onah, Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, recalled the bold vision that birthed the carnival at the turn of the millennium and transformed a 12-kilometer stretch into the world’s longest carnival route.

He noted that the festival had evolved from a spectacle to an economic platform, attracting support from AfriExim Bank and Deloitte, among other renowned partners.

“Our young people now dance not just to entertain, but to earn, to express, and to inspire. Carnival Calabar is a living legacy of purpose-driven culture,” Onah said.

Tourism expert and Africa’s cultural ambassador, Ikechi Ukoh, also described the carnival as a rare African tourism product with enduring global appeal.

According to him, Calabar stands out as one of the few Nigerian cities that transcend negative global perceptions.

“When Calabar is mentioned, fear fades and excitement rises,” Ukoh said.

He called for deeper support from the Federal Government and expressed optimism about the participation of icons like Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke, and Senator Gershom Bassey.

“December in Calabar is not a suggestion; it is a destination,” he said.

The UN Resident Representative, Elsie Atafuwa, praised the carnival as a cultural powerhouse aligned with global development goals.

She urged collaboration to promote SDGs, UNESCO heritage status, and youth-focused cultural exchanges.

“Culture is not a luxury. It is power, identity, and peace,” Atafuwa said, adding that Calabar modeled how heritage could drive unity and progress.

Similarly, Obi Asika, Executive Secretary of the National Council for Arts and Culture, highlighted the role of Carnival Calabar in advancing Afrobeats and called it potentially the world’s biggest music event.

He urged investment in storytelling to reclaim Cross River’s place on the global cultural stage and pledged continued support.

Also, Aisha Adamu, Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization, reaffirmed her agency’s commitment to expanding the carnival’s reach to the Caribbean and beyond.

With the theme for this year, “Traces of Time”, the competing bands in the carnival will start preparation immediately for the event in December, which also promises a reflective and electrifying showcase of history, identity, and future aspirations.