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Politics and Political positions in Nigeria, Cross River State inclusive, has over the years remained predictable with our Political actors believing that it is their exclusive right to determine who gets what within the political terrain, to the total exclusiveness of the masses who are the right people to choose who governs them. In most cases, when the political elites stamps a candidate, the people would only go to the polls to fulfil all righteousness by voting, which sometimes may, or may not count. These has over the years deprived the country of quality leadership and has led to governance of excuses where people will only come into government to give excuses why they could not or cannot lead to create positive impact in the life of the people.

Cross River State have had her own fair share of governance and leadership from 1999 till date . From 1999, we have had leaders come in with their own style of governance, presenting programs and projects they want to achieve. Whether these programs and projects has been achieved or currently has positive impact in the Life of Cross Riverians, is entirely left for the people to say and not the reason why we have written this article. The article is totally to x-Ray our current reality and explain why Engr. BEN AKAK is the right man for the time and why we must que behind him.

The total debt of Cross River State as at the end of 2017 was approximately #177.16billion with external debt growing to $167.9million in 2017, from $114.9m in 2016. Domestic debt also rose to #125.65billion in 2017 from #116.06billion in 2013. On average, domestic debt grew 2.27% annually between 2013 and 2017. Internally generated revenue (IGR) in the State in 2017 was recorded at #18.10billion, a leap from 2016 levels of #14.78billion, #12billion, #15billion and #13billion in 2013, 2014 and 2015 respectively. Over the years too, the total FAAC allocation received by states have also significantly reduced from #2.9trillion and 2.5trillion in 2013 and 2014 to #1.2trillion and 1.7trillion received in 2016 and 2017 respectively.

The reality in the above financial analysis presents the people of Cross River State with just one option, that is, that we must stamp our foots on the ground to elect for ourself a man, Engr. BEN AKAK, who has run private businesses from scratch to stardom to lead us. A man who has privately managed humans and resources without relying on public funds, a man who in bussiness, understands the pain in loosing and the gain in winning. If we must succeed as a state with the current debt profile, we must understand that successful governments all over the world are currently runed like bussiness ventures where the Chief Executive Officers understands the economic indices of winning and loosing in bussiness. The era of people believing they are entitled to become governor because it was agreed that way, should not be allowed to be for the sake of the state and the future of our unborn children. While we have watched those who run their life on public funds refused to allow the little that is even supposed to come to the ordinary Cross Riverian come to them, Engr. BEN AKAK has been in the forefront impacting lives, creating wealth for citizens and employing citizens from his private pocket to take them out of poverty. The reality that there must be a generational power shift in 2023, makes a great capable leader like Engr. Ben Etim Akak tower above every intending contender to the office of governor in 2023, and the simple reason why we must all que behind him to make and create history of how the people of Cross River State stoop to conquer.

Ekpenyong Isaiah-isababa, Writes.

In line with the Agro Industrialization Drive (AID) of his Excellency Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade the Executive Governor of Cross River State, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on public works Comr. Julius O. Kijuo who has been working tirelessly round the clock to making sure the CBN Agro Business Empowerment Scheme not only comes to actualization, but importantly get to the targeted Cross Riverians who are in real need of this life changing and developmental scheme has finally released names of coordinators of the for the 18 Local Government Areas of Cross River State.

This list was published today the 13th day of January, 2021, was captured in a press release.
The statement reads;

“PRESS RELEASE!

OFFICE OF THE SENIOR SPECIAL ASSISTANT (SSA) TO THE GOVERNOR OF CROSS RIVER STATE ON PUBLIC WORKS

The following persons have been appointed as coordinators in the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN Agro business Empowerment scheme data collation in the 18 Local Government Area of Cross River State. This is in line with the Agro industralizaion drive of his Excellency Sen Prof Ben Ayade the Executive Governor of Cross River State.

(1). CALABAR MUN
Ekpeme Enobong
08062925360

2) CALABAR SOUTH: Effiom K
08067092295
VENUE:Cultural Centre Complex
Date:19/1/2021

(3) ODUKPANI :
Nfon Ekpeme
08065449148
DATE:20/1/2021
VENUE: Council Hall

(4). AKAMPKA ONE:
Akposi Benjamin
09097151641
VENUE:Akampka Council
DATE:22/1/2021

AKAMPKA 2:
Ojong Otang
08035114469
DATE 23/1/2021
VENUE:Oban village

(5) BIASE:
Otu Ilem
08167579461
VENUE:Adim
Date:24/1/2021

(6) YAKURR:
Emmanuel Elvis
08061110182
Obia Iwara Ofem
070554576972
VENUE:Idome
Date:26/1/2021

(7) ABI
Samuel Ben 09012005865
VENUE:Itigidi
Date:28/1/2021

(8)OBUBRA
Agara Ovat Isek
08067210933,
Ayo Edim
08135249980
VENUE :Owakande 1 village.
DATE:30/1/2021

(9)IKOM
Prince Etta Tangban
08134787188
VENUE:Council Hall
Date: 1/2/2021

(10) BOKI 11
Patrick Obi Obache07067142899
VENUE:Okundi Customary Court
Date:3/2/2021

BOKI 1
Ekeiwa Douglas
08035836689
VENUE:Wula
4/2/2021

11) OGOJA
Bernard Anor
08167444611
VENUE:Ogoja Council
DATE:7/2/2021

12)0BUDU
Abua Stafford U.
07089888991
VENUE:Kakum
Date 9/2/2021

13) YALA
Wona Patrick
08089503681
VENUE:Okpoma
DATE:11/2/2021

14) OBANLIKU
Prince Mark Henry
09057607371
VENUE:Amunga
DATE 13/2/2021

15) BEKWARA
Hon. ESHIEJE Monica VENUE: Otukpuru Village
DATE: 15/2/2021

16) AKPABUYO
Amanso Okon Iban
08035527996,
VENUE:Atimbo village
Date:17/2/2021

17) Bakassi
Mrs Mercy Ita Ekanem
07067919359
VENUE: Council secretariat
Date:18/2/2021

18)Etung
Praise Achima Eju
0703355 3412
VENUE:Ajassor
Date 20/2/2021

CENTRAL COMMITTEE
Miss Esther Andrew Inyang,
Mr. Okuku Achill”.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof Florence Obi has called on newly appointed Directors and their deputies to come up with a work plan in their various units that will help them achieve the collective dream of building the institution.

Prof Florence Obi who gave the call at a meeting held at the Senate Chamber of the institution said without a work plan, expectations will not be met and achieving of set targets will become an illusion.
She charged the Directors to not only draw a work plan but one that is measurable and feasible and capable of transforming the landscape of the institution when achieved.

The Vice Chancellor further tasked them to embrace team work and to deliberately seek for knowledge and ideas from one another as none is a reservoir of the entire pool or body of knowledge.
Prof Obi said they should take advantage of their appointments which is a call to serve, to consciously advance and profit the university by their skills, knowledge, experience and do good to the great citadel of learning.
She urged them to work for the good of the university, show that they are better informed and aim to make a difference in their area of work.
The Vice Chancellor showered praise on an erstwhile Chairman, Committee of Deans, Prof Benedict Ita whom she described as ideas- driven adding that his initial inputs have added value to what administration has done so far.

The event was marked with a presentation by the Director of Entrepreneurial Development Centre (EDC), Prof Christine Ikpeme and followed by a question-and-answer session.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof Michael Okom and the Registrar, Mr Gabriel Egbe were management officials that attended the meeting.

Engr Ben Akak Chairman Ben Akak Foundation

The Death Of Chief Linus Okom is a huge loss to Cross River State

I would like to on behalf of my family and the Ben Akak Foundation convey our deepest condolences to the people of Bekwarra Local Government Area in our dear Cross River State on the demise of a Father, a harbinger of development, a colossus of benevolence and an elder statesman Chief Linus Okom (Adah Bekwarra).

Chief Linus Okom was a man who is reputed to have ensured the employment of Cross Riverians in many Federal Government Parastatals. He has been actively involved in charitable efforts that have seen so many young people who hitherto had lost hope achieve unimaginable feats. So many testimonies abound of how the kind-heartedness of this single individual propelled many indigenes of Bekwarra and by extension Cross River to great heights in all sectors of our society.

The enormity of this loss cannot be fully expressed in words. Nonetheless, let us take solace in the fact that he lived a life invested in the development of others. I reckon that while he lived on earth, he imbibed the leadership philosophy of prioritising the development of Cross Riverians. It is this philosophy that would ensure that Cross Riverians are at par with their contemporaries in the economic, political, education and technology sector in Nigeria and the World. It is this philosophy that should govern the activities of Business, Political, Religious, Traditional and Academic Leaders in Cross River State. This I am sure would enliven the memory of Chief Linus Okom.

I don’t have the soothing words to console his immediate Family and his children but I urge them to bask in the joy that their Father, Husband, Brother, Grandfather, Uncle lived a life worthy of emulation.
It is my earnest prayer that God Should give his immediate family , the people of Bekwarra and the entire Cross River State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss .

MAY THE SOUL OF CHIEF LINUS OKOM (ADAH BEKWARRA ) REST IN PEACE AMEN .

Mr. George Odok Jnr, a Senior Defence/Security Correspondent with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) was awarded best journalist of the year 2020, by Firsts Baba Isa (FBI) Awards.

The Cross River, (Boki LGA extraction) born journalist expert was awarded base on his professionalism, doggedness and bravery in bringing hidden truth to the public even in cases where other journalists feared to dare.

According to the FBI, “During the period under review, 2020, he was at the forefront of reporting security challenges in Cross River State and proffering solutions on ways to combat the incessant cases of kidnapping that ravage Calabar at a point, in spite the threats by those who felt he exposed their criminal acts before the public, it didn’t deter him to put their faces before the public”.

“Also, during the heat period of covid-19, he was on the journalists who created sufficient awareness on newspaper and social media on the dangers of the pandemic by way of enlightening the public on safety measures and also encourage the state government on the need to upscale the level of testing of the virus in the state.
Congratulations from all of us of the FBI awards”.

However, Odok Jnr. expressed his joy and gratitude to the FBI for saying well-done and charging him to do more. He promised to do even more than expected to bringing news and truth to mankind.

In his public statement, Odok Jnr. speaks,
“Dear Firsts Baba Isa, I want to sincerely commend your effort for sustaining the FBI Awards over the years. You have, through this Awards, connected a continent of great minds with exceptional potentials into one fold. Secondly, these Awards have also promoted local content to the world, hence you deserve a BIGGER APPLAUSE for this awesome drive”.

He continued, “FBI, thanks for sustaining this initiative; may God bless and reward you bountifully in all that you do”.

“To all those who voted for me in this category, I want to say a special THANK YOU to you all for finding me worthy of this recognition. This shows that my output on the conventional and social media as a journalist with the News Agency of Nigeria has created an impact on the overall development and wellbeing of the society we live in. This Award is a call for more exceptional, factual and timely reportage of issues around our locality for the benefit of mankind.
May God bless us all”. He ended.

11th January, 2021.

With unmeasurable gladness, we the entire Osokom I Youth Forum heartily congratulate one of our own, Dr. Edmond Asu Odok on his well deserved appointment as, Deputy Director of Sports of University of Calabar.

Dearest Dr. E. A. Odok, it is therefore a truism that your appointment came as a result of your activeness and dogged herculean contribution to the sporting activities in the University of Calabar, Calabar.

Whereas, with our hearts soaked in pacific joy and gross gratitude, we greatly thank our Matriarch, Prof. Florence Banku Obi, Vice Chancellor of the prestigious University of Calabar for finding worthiness, capacity and capability in our own Dr. E. A. Odok for such a cardinal position.
May God bless and expand you more Bone Muten!

CONGRATULATIONS DR. EDMOND ASU ODOK!!!

Signed:

Emmanuel Asu Bisong
Chairman OYF

Harold Joe Owan
Gen Sec. OYF

Agbor, John Onabe
Pub. Sec. OYF

Birthday Felicitation To Comr. Julius Kijuo

We are glad today to announce to the world the birthday memorial of a legend (Comr Julius Kijuo), a dogged leader, a man of the people. You started your political journey during your days as a student, where you served the prestigious faculty of Education University Of Calabar, as a president of this faculty you left a legacy that is still a point of reference in the entire University of Calabar… No wonder you are currently serving in dual capacity as Chairman Cross River State Youth In Politics And SSA To Cross River State Governor On Public Works. You are indeed a great personality with undisputable equanimity of temper.

In you we find a perfect mixture of conservativism and radicalism, an advantage that makes you one of the young promising leaders that the political landscape of this country is earnestly waiting to greet. Lead us not into the temptation of writing too much, because even a million words are not enough to capture the ability and capacity within and in YOU….

Happy birthday Sir Julius Kijuo ( SSA Public Works).

Comr. Ekiewa Douglas Oshieteh, Amplifiers from Calabar.

The Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Public Works Comrade Kijuo Julius, has embarked on tour inspection of ongoing Projects Initiated and being executed by His Excellency Prof Ben Ayade in the Northern Senatorial District of the State.

Comrade Kijuo who was in the company of the Special Assistant to the governor on Agriculture Comrade Akuku Achilles and other members of his team, took a first-hand inspection of the ongoing Cargo Airport being constructed in Obudu. Standing at the Project site, the SSA was filled with awe, seeing the giant project already gone beyond 65%.

Expressing satisfaction with the Initiatve and talking on the economic importance of the projects to a team of Media men, Kijuo said this was the kind of Development the State needs, judging from its industrialization drive under Sen. Prof Ben Ayade. He described the governor as visionary and an embodiment of innovation.

“What we see here is a great project that will improve the economic viability of Cross River State. The airport is well conceived and with what I’ve seen here, the State and indeed the country will benefit. I am particularly marveled as I am overwhelmed by this great project. The airport is very strategic and well planned, it is indeed worthwhile.

Comrd. Kijuo further sued for peace from the communities, while calling for cooperation so that the zeal of the governor to develop the State will be actualized.
Kijuo also thanked the Governor for carefully appointing Hon. Chief Barr Jake Otu Enyia as the poiner Honourable Commissioner for Aviation in Cross River, stating that with the speedy approach given towards the completion of the airport, has practically proven the capacity of the Commissioner and his team.

Speaking also, the Special Adviser to the governor on Agriculture Comr. Akuku Achilles, eulogized the Initiatve for the airport Project, saying that it will become a catalyst for growth and development. He encouraged stakeholders and communities within the airport to support the developmental strides in their Communities.

The inspection team also took a tour of the rehabilitation activities already executed by the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council since inception into office, Hon. Boniface Eyare Eweh, who commended the team for their foresight by coming to see things the way they are at the moment.
Other Places already renovated by the Obudu Chairman include the administrative building, revenue office and a roundabout that is under construction.

The team also made an inspection visit to Obanliku LGC, where he commended the efforts of the Local Government Council Chief Executive for the quick intervention works which has given the Council a face lift.
In Obanliku, the team expressed satisfaction with the work done by the Chairman Hon. Evng. Margaret Inde and the giant uncompleted building where the SSA called on the State government to support the council in completing the Project.

Highpoints of the visit was assessment of equipments at the Legislative Chambers in Obudu, the renovation of the chairman’s office and other officers of the Council.

The media parley also involved interviews and on-site documentary.

Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has given reasons why his administration introduced qualifying examination for directors seeking to become permanent secretaries, stressing that the moved was aimed at setting a solid foundation for a virile state civil service.

Engineer Sule stated this while being presented with a report by the committee constituted to conduct examination for eligible directors for appointment into the post of permanent secretary in the state public service, at the Government House, on Thursday.

While noting that the civil service in Nasarawa State presently is weak, in spite of the work being carried out by the state Head of Civil Service, the Governor said the decision to set qualifying examination for directors seeking to become permanent secretaries, was in a bid to restructure the civil service and to restore it to its past glory.

According to Engineer Sule, without a virile and committed civil service, all the investments the administration is trying to attract, all the development efforts, cannot be achieved.

The Governor however assured that, with the nature of appointments in the state, other considerations, aside of the examination, will also play critical role in the selection of the permanent secretaries.

“What we are trying to do, based on my knowledge of administration, is to have some guidance, that the people we are selecting have capacity.

“In selecting, it’s not only the outcome of the examination that is being considered, there are other considerations. We have to have representation from different part of the state. And I have no doubt that in every local government that you go, you will find persons with capacity,” he stated.

Engineer Sule used the opportunity to also comment on insinuations that his administration is setting up too many committees, stressing that committees are useful in guiding the administration to do things right.

He pointed out that setting up committees is not necessarily because the administration didn’t know what to do.

“The easiest thing to do while selecting directors who will become permanent secretaries, is for the Governor to sit down and look at all the directors and other people in the civil service and appoint some of them, as provided by the law.

“But if I want to do it right, it’s to go by setting up committees because members of the committee know the directors better,” Engineer Sule said.

The Governor further assured that his administration will sustain these two strategies, of setting qualifying examination, as well as referring to people with more experience, in the appointment of permanent secretaries and other government officials in that cadre, at least for guidance which will help the state government gets the best for the state.

The Governor thanked the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, who was Acting Governor while Engineer Sule was away on vacation and who identified the members of the committee, the Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government, Barrister Muhammad Ubandoma Aliyu, as well as members of the committee for doing a wonderful job.

Earlier, while presenting the report, Chairman of the committee, Jonah Ogbole, described the exercise, being the first of its kind in history of state, as a revolution.

According to Ogbole, who was a one time Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government, without the civil service, there is nothing that can be done.

He commended the Governor for the initiative, adding that there are only few states in the country, aside of the federal government, where such innovation has been contemplated.

“We want to give you credit for this. It’s a very big event, it’s a revolution,” he stated.

COLLABORATIVE DEVELOPMENT OF CROSS RIVER STATE AND GENERATIONAL POWER SHIFT, AS CROSS RIVER STATE-BORN MUSIC STAR, INYANYA, PAYS SOLIDARITY VISIT TO ENGR. BEN AKAK.

The realization that when Cross River State wins, we win, and that together we can in the words of Engr. Ben Akak, collaboratively develop Cross River State and make her a better place for ourselves, our children and generations yet unborn, have seen alot of indigenes and residents of Cross River State, from wide and near, begin to join the collaborative train, the latest being INYANYA, the Cross River State-born Nigerian hip-hop star who came on a solidarity visit, pledging his total support and collaboration with both the Ben Akak Foundation (BAF) and Ben Akak Movement (BAM) to see a better Cross River State as we move close to the 2023 elections in Cross River State in particular, and Nigeria in general.

The visit of the Music Star, Inyanya, to Engr. Ben Akak is significant because it marks and signifies a clear case of realization by the people of this generation that if there must be generational power shift from the old generation, to today’s generation, we must immediately identify people with leadership capacity, traits, wisdom and high sense of responsibility to rally round, which Engr. Ben Akak possesses in abundance.

The young people in Cross River State should look deeper than allow those that have kept them down for years continue to deceive them. We must immediately learn from the life story of the current Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ugochukwu Onyeama, who in paying tribute to Late Chief of Staff to President Buhari, Abba Kyari , said “I became Minister not because I had anybody, but because Abba Kyari was my course mate in the United Kingdom”. This again really shows that we have only been ruled by people of same generation who sees nothing good about the generation today, and until there is a significant generational power shift, today’s young people may never taste or experience real political power.

To make that generational power-shift real, like Inyanya, we must all come together now to rally round Engr. Ben Akak for he has shown that leadership traits, capacity, wisdom and the ability to lead. His vision about Cross River State, is to make the State, a State that will be the envy of other states through collaborative development. That is, a state where all indigenes can contribute positively to the development of the state through different value-chains . He believes that every indigene and non-indigene who loves a better Cross River State is key to the development of the state and must contribute to her development at different levels with government creating an enabling environment for such to take place.

The Collaborative train is moving, join the Engr. Ben Akak Movement now for a better Cross River State.

Ekpenyong Isaiah-isababa
isacool4good@yahoo.com

His Excellency Governor Ben Ayade is on it again in his relentless effort to boost Agro-allied sector in Cross River State in working her way for high level of farm productivity (Operation feed the nation)

The workaholic Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Cross River State Comr. Julius Kijuo met with Simple Link Network ( SLNE) Management in Abuja head office to partner in the process of data coliation.

During the meeting Kijuo told the SLINE management that Cross River State Government is stopping at nothing in partnering with any agency that has the agenda of promoting Agriculture, as the State Government despite it meagre accruals has been investing its resources in making sure famers are empowered to increase farm productivity in Cross River State.

The secretary of Simple link Network (SLINE), Miss Arabi Usuf who represented the management and is in charge of data collation assured Cross River State Government that the process will be transparent beyond party lines and ethnicity.

They further assured the State that immediately the process of farmers data collation is concluded, Central Bank will commence it’s farm imput Empowerment amongst others benefits.

Kijuo finally appreciated the management for their endless efforts in making sure Cross River State is captured in CBN projects.

The exercise will commence from 5th of January, 2021.

For more information contact Miss Ester Inya State Coordinator 08125862387

Dr Moses Agbor ~+2348037538514

Mr Akuku Achilles Special Adviser to the Governor on Agric +2347038081833

Mr. Patrick Obache ~07067142899

In a charge to support the construction of power supply facilities as well as improving power supply to enhance Socio economic development in Lafia Local Government Council and Nasarawa State as a whole, the Lafia Local Government Council under leadership of Hon. Aminu Mu’azu Maifata, shouldered the construction of access road to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) 330/132/33KV power substation works at Akurba community in Lafia Local Government Council.

The power substation construction works which is handled by General Electrics (GE) was said to be delayed due to lack of access road to the construction area. Hence, the timely intervention and rescue action of the Lafia LGC brought life and revamping of construction activities to the 330/132/33KV power substation awarded to GE by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

However, the road construction was properly and neatly done by Global Investment Nig. Ltd. and closely supervised by the Lafia LGC’s Director of Works & Housing Engr. Mohammed Abari Odapu and his team of Engineers from the council.

The Director of Works & Housing Engr. M. O. Abari who doubled as Chief Supervising Engr and Representative of the Hon. Chairman of Council, displayed an extra ordinary commitment in making sure the road construction was a diamond success. In his words with our correspondent at the completion of the project, “We thank Almighty Allah for the completion of this road construction by the Lafia Local Government Council under the able leadership of the Executive Chairman Hon. Aminu Mu’azu Maifata, as it was well supervised by Me, the Director of Works and Housing and my team of Engineers particularly, Engr. B. Audu who spent all his time on site for works supervision to making sure this work completes on time and smoothly. May Allah gives us more life and opportunity to do even more for the improvement of the society and mankind.

Furthermore, the MD/CEO of Global Investment Nig Ltd (subcontractor of the road construction project), Alhaji Aliyu Tafida, thanked the TCN Staff, Lafia LGC and GE Staff for always being around from the start to the completion of the contract. Stating that, “I will always love to work with these unyielding supporting teams in more and bigger contracts or projects in the future, for you were all the best”.

The project which commenced on the 18th of October, 2020 was successful completed and handed over to the 330/132/33KV power substation contractors on Wednesday, 11 November, 2020 for power works continuity.

J. O. Agbor - Lafia

Earlier today, the VC elect, Prof. Florence Banku Obi visited key stakeholders in Southern Senatorial District to officially present herself to the host community of University Calabar on her emergence as the 11th VC of Unical.

The first female VC visited the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South, Prof. Hogan Itam, who prayed for her and wished her well in her tenure which starts on December 1, 2020. Prof. Itam expressed happiness on her emergence and promised to work with her during her tenure as VC.

The incoming VC also visited Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Snr and Jnr respectively, where she sought their support and cooperation for a smooth running of the institution.

Similarly, she also visited Prof. Eyo Etim-Nyong in his house. She pledged her utmost desire to run an all inclusive administration that will promote and enhance academic excellence in the univeristy.

High point of the visit was at the residence of Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, where both amazons discussed at length and celebrated the victory of the incoming VC.

Senator Ita-Giwa congratulated her for making history by breaking the jinx of becoming the first female VC of Unical, 45 years after.

Governing Council of the University of Calabar has appointed the First Female Vice Chancellor since the inception of the University. She is Prof Florence Banku Obi.
Prof Florence Obi ‘s appointment was announced at the 159th Meeting of the 12th Governing Council of the InstitInstitutionution held today at the Conference Centre of Unical Hotel.
Speaking at the meeting, the Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institution, Senator Nkechi Nwaogu congratulated the newly appointed Vice Chancellor for distinguishing herself in a field of equal contestants.
Senator Nkechi Nwaogu described the process leading to Prof Florence Obi’s triumph and emergence as free, fair, credible, honest and exemplary.

The Newly appointed Vice Chancellor, Prof Florence Obi who is the 11th Vice Chancellor of the Institution and a Professor of Education will assume office on 1st December, 2020.
The highpoint of the event was the official presentation of the Appointment Letter

Zebis Prince – Calabar

Over the cloud, there is a sign about the size of a hand with the glimpse of a generational history ready to be made in the University of Calabar as the exercise for the appointment of the 11th Vice Chancellor draws closer. The date “10th September, 2020” which is set to conclude this process that has run for several months will become as an insignia in the calendar of times as a woman for the first time is hinted to be occupying the Vice-Chancellor’s office of this Prestigious University.

Hope and anticipation from the quarters of contenders jostling for this job has find its way in the media space through quite a range of expressive campaign contents from their teeming supporters more than at any other time. Interests in this office made a leeway this time around to the public as the need mediating for a woman academician/administrator to be given the opportunity of becoming the Vice Chancellor surges all time high. It is on record that in the 45 years existence of the University of Calabar, all the ten Vice-Chancellors has always been a man prompting the clamoring on the pertinence of this academic institution getting a befitted and focused woman Vice-chancellor to rebound the true purpose the institution was established for. But as this task is walled in a bureaucratic process aptly restricting public interference, there has been sound argument and advocacy to the University Council asking for Prof Florence B. Obi to be considered imminently, the next Vice-Chancellor in view of her profound academic and administrative experience as erstwhile Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics of the University and again for her intimidating career profile having satisfied to term all the requirements necessary for this job and has conducted herself in the superlative ring of first-class Professors in Unical being thoroughly built with the charisma and training in technocracy to do the University of Calabar community proud when she assumes the rein of this office.

The choice of Prof Florence Obi is victory for gender fairness in a system that has hinged preferences for a barrage of male folks who have done their best in this academic environment. In the 21st century where women are leveling up in every aspect of our society as the men, it will amount to a primitive disservice to the female qualified contenders should another man be installed as the next Vice-Chancellor. The University Council panel must find courage to toe the rough path in choosing a woman who will head this institution as evidences in the reins of the last five male VCs shows the university has relapsed in the quality and standard of education it offers and turnovers. Council panel is urged to renege every attempt at further worsening the state of Unical and take a radical stance that will settle on a woman Vice Chancellor if the old order must be stopped along with their colossal failure. The University of Calabar needs a smart and courageous Woman who can go on her way to achieve set goals despite the odds. The institution needs a female Vice-Chancellor who can get rid of systemic decay and overhaul sub-standards in every facet of the school. A woman of rare bravery with the hunger to sit Unical among the league of best Universities in Nigeria and Africa is audaciously found in Prof Florence Obi. The choice of Prof Florence B. Obi as the next Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar will indicate a complete departure from the usual era of stooge-planting to a future where excellence is rewarded and meritocracy heralded.

To conclude this exercise, the public has been awash with a circular of seven member Professorial panel that will carry out the selection of the next Vice Chancellor. As patriotic members of this academic institution, we are praying the panel to prevail on every superfluous external influence or any such internal lording that will attempt to implant yet another ilk of the old order. The destiny of this University at the interim lies in the choice of the next Vice Chancellor hugely. It is a choice between going forward or standing still. It is a choice to either get a Vice Chancellor that will stimulate the gains of this academic setting and revamp its values for society or gamble another five years with someone who will repeat the path of the predecessors. This Panel of erudite professors should midwife an outcome that is rooted in gender justice, capacity, competence and experience and one Woman fits in it all, Prof Florence B. Obi.
We await the dawn of a new leave in Unical come September when the delayed paradigm will shift from all-time male Vice-Chancellors to an era of powerful and successful women Vice-Chancellors. A time when this University will start creating innovative values that will benefit the 21st century Cross River State, Nigeria and Africa. A time when the shades of secrecy undermining the greatness of the University of Calabar will be open. A time where learning is enhanced and aptitude encouraged. A time when this citadel of learning will again turn-in graduates that will make the University of Calabar proud because a mother Vice-Chancellor would have given her suiting care to the gasping academic system left motionless by the those who didn’t care.

By Blessing Enagu

In continuation of his working visits to forestry formations across the State, the Chairman of Cross River State Forestry Commission, Chief Tony Undiandeye recently paid homage to the Paramount ruler of Akamkpa Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Ntufam Clement Ekpe Emayip, at his palace in Mfamosing, where he sought cooperation on sustainability and conservation of the forest resources within Akamkpa Local Government Area.

Chief Undiandeye noted that Akamkpa which used to hold the largest forests in the State and hosts endangered primates such as Chimpanzees and gorillas is fast depleting as a result of indiscriminate deforestation activities in the area. He added that beyond the adverse effects of global warming, wildlife is also going into extinction because of noise pollution generated from saw engines operating in the forests.

The Chairman also maintained that government will ensure strict compliance by the various companies operating in the area on their corporate social responsibilities, while assuring that the commission will work within its powers to ensure that Akamkpa benefits from her conservation efforts.

Applauding the Paramount Ruler for his leadership qualities, Chief Undiandeye expressed confidence that the synergy between his Commission and the Akamkpa traditional Institution will be result-oriented.

The Chairman debunked the alleged claim that government was responsible for selling forests and its products in the area, warning that those responsible were impostors who must be compelled to desist from such illegal acts. He further advised the people to always seek confirmation from the relevant authority.

The Paramount Ruler, Ntufam Clement Emayip, thanked the Chairman for reaching out to the community noting that it shows the value placed on the Local Government Area.

The royal father complained that Akamkpa Local Government Area is highly cheated by government despite being the Local Government Area with largest mineral resources base in the state.

He lamented that local communities in the area no longer receive royalties from government, and that their children were neither given scholarships nor gainfully employed. He, however, expressed hope that the renewed collaboration with the Commission will facilitate growth and development for the people of Akamkpa.

The Forestry Commission Chairman used the opportunity to visit Dansa Agro- Allied Company in Oban to inspect the farm and ensure that the company operates within the enumerated area without impacting on the Forests reserve.

In company of the Chairman were the Permanent Secretary, senior directors and principal officers of the Commission.

By Blessing Enagu

Staff of Cross River State Forestry Commission have been assured of better working environment for efficiency and maximum productivity.

Giving the assurance during his visits to Charge Offices within the South West and South East Zones of the Commission, the Chairman, Chief Tony Undiandeye bemoaned the dilapidated office buildings and staff quarters, stating that work environments radiate lots of goodwill, and Staff are likely not to be productive under such deplorable conditions.

He commended staff resilience and efforts towards improving the facilities, noting that ingenuity in tackling the challenges was needed as the government is financially constrained.

The Chairman tasked them to think outside the box and device other legitimate ways of revenue generation which can be used to improve their working conditions as well as add to the state’s economy, pointing out that the sector has much potentials that can be harnessed.

Inspecting Akpet Charge which was gutted by wild fire, the Chairman empathized with the staff that have been displaced as a result of the incident and directed that arrangements should be made for the rehabilitation of the office.

He specifically commended the Akpet Charge Officer, Mrs. Rose Ayang for her impressive and outstanding performance, noting that her initiative, disposition and passion for service despite unfavorable conditions are worthy of emulation.

The Chairman challenged the Zonal Forest Officers to draw up workable plans to reactivate other revenue sources while also cautioning staff against compromising in the field, but implored them to live above board in order to regain the needed recognition in their jobs.

The Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Mr. Timothy Akwaji lauded staff’s dedication to duty and encouraged them to continue to imbibe the ethics of their profession as he would not hesitate to sanction any Staff found wanting.

Moved by their plight in Oban Charge, Mr. Akwaji announced his support of replacing all the broken windows in the office, thereby, receiving accolades from the staff concerned.

In their various Zones, the Zonal Forest Officers of South West, Mr. Patrick Ugbada and South East, Mr. Ibiang Essien took the Chairman through the rudimentary aspects of their offices, intimating him of their strengths and weaknesses.

The Officers informed that the Staff have worked in unison to maintain the offices and quarters to the present state and called on the management for intervention in critical areas.

They regretted that their jobs are limited by the many challenges which include security, mobility, external interference, burglary, lack of office accommodation while also recounting their ordeals in their line of duty.

They expressed hope of a better working condition and reassured the Chairman of their commitment towards achieving the Commission’s mandate.

The Chairman was accompanied on the visits by senior directors and principal officers of the Commission.

Offices visited were, Calabar, Oban, Awi, Akpet and Akpabuyo Forest Charges.

These days, we just get a list of hundreds of names weekly or bi-monthly and they call them, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants and Personal Assistants to the Governor of Cross River state. Some of the titles have also become so ridiculous and monotonous. Even the appointees are tired of congratulating themselves.

These SSAs, SAs and PAs, are only required to go and pay between 25k to 27k, to the Cross River state Internal Revenue Service for tax clearance and attach the clearance to their credentials and proceed to the office of the Secretary to the State Government to submit their details including account numbers and return to their homes and villages and wait every month for the stipend government pays them.

They don’t have appointment letters, no ID cards, no office, no job specification, no table, nothing is expected of the appointees. The governor does not even know these individuals nor does he even deal with them. They don’t go to work. There is nowhere to resume for work. They are not meant to do anything for the government. Just sit in your house or village and when the month ends, you get an alert from the bank.

These “appointees” go to business centers around Calabar to print plastic ID cards for themselves. Pick 10 appointees randomly and all of them will have different ID cards designed and printed privately from different sources. If you doubt me, do it.

So when next you read another long list of appointments, don’t take it too serious. It is a food-on-the-table something. A poverty alleviation kinda-thing. And in other to accommodate more participants, the governor has pro-rated the monthly take home and it’s now less than 100k. At best, the appointments are a political tranquilizer dispensed in measured doses by a maverick who is exploiting the poverty of the population.

My immediate elder brother just joined the train and I have been taunting him and asking him what his contribution is, as SA Humanitarian Affairs, I am still waiting for his answers. But he is a cool guy and he wants the monthly alert like every other ‘appointee.’

Nevertheless, I am fervently hopeful that someday in the near future, appointments into government in our State will regain their panache and elegance. We will yet return to the era when titles like SSA, SA and PA to Governor will be reserved for the few young people who genuinely have capacity to serve. That time will surely return.

This is without prejudice to the few professionals who are working with governor Ayade and genuinely contributing their quota to the development of our State. God bless their effort.

Yours sincerely,
Citizen Agba Jalingo.

I laughed out so loud when I read a post of some PDP Members who sat in their usual drinking Spot as usual to consume some Liquor, fortunately the Gathering was made up of PDP Members who are already soaked with one of their member who is Contesting the Senatorial Election.

As usual in Cross River State where Money is Worshipped against
Credence
Competence
Pedigree
Capacity
Sagacity
Popularity and Result Oriented Personalities, Pockets where Monied and it got some of them exited and they Immediately began to Analyze the Bye-Election which led them to realizing that High Chief Professor Zana Akpagu is a very Good and Popular Man that would be so difficult to be defited during the Election, hence the Micro Zoning to Yala/Ogoja Local Government Areas.

They have Constitutional and Fundamental Human Rights to make Suggestions and be Opinionated, but what made their Suggestions laughable is that, they are all PDP Members who has a very big Factional Fight to face.

What makes it more Laughable is their thinking that everyone should share in their PDP School of thoughts, forgetting that APC has more number of Sophisticated Aspirants than PDP who’s most Aspirants are to hold brief for the Governor in 2023……..

I want to advice our Respected Major General Anthony Ukpo and his TEAM to advice their Preferred Candidate to move around and tell People their achievement so far. Tell the People what you would do for them if Elected as Senator Representing Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State and not to talk about Micro Zoning Arrangements to scheme a Particular Big Masquerade out.

High Chief Professor Zana Akpagu is standing taller than all other Aspirants today because he has so much to show as a Projects across the 18 Local Government Areas especially Northern Senatorial District and the Best Report Card as the Vice Chancellor of the Prestigious University of Calabar from 2015-till date.

I want to also inform the Public that the Northern Senatorial District Bye-Election is so Interestingly Important to the All Progressives Congress APC, hence the Reason for the Southern and Central Senatorial District being very Interested about the Election.

APC and the Entire Cross Riverians cannot sit down and watch the total destruction of our Dear Beloved State and we are ready to take over Cross River State starting with the Northern Senatorial District Bye-Election 2020.

Almost all the Aspirants went to their Comfort homes to relax/enjoy themselves while High Chief Professor Zana Akpagu was busy showing People his Performance Report Card and reminded them of his Unprecedented Antecedent.
You can only win the Election as a tested and trusted Performer and Zana Akpagu fits into this prerequisites, hence the Commotion in other Aspirants Camp

Iso Bassey Edim

Akintunde Akotile, father of late Tolulope Akotile, Nigeria’s first female combat helicopter pilot, who died on Tuesday, July 14th, has disclosed their last conversation before she died.

Akotile said he called his daughter on the phone on Tuesday at about 1:00pm on her return from an operation against bandits in Katsina State and the two of them had several minutes chat.

He however, revealed that things took a different turn later in the day when he received a call from a person. 

He said, “She told me that she will later go out to make some photocopies and I told her not to be long and to return home on time because she was staying with my first daughter in Kaduna.

“Around 5:30pm, somebody called me and asked if I had called her and I said yes. The person told me to call her again which I did, but there was no response. So, I called her colleagues and they were all crying on phone. I asked what happened, they were just crying.

“I called one of her bosses who told me that she was in the mortuary. I was shocked because said she was somebody I spoke with four hours earlier and by 5:00pm she was in the mortuary.”

The bereaved father further disclosed that he had to drive to Lokoja, Kogi State, from Abuja to inform his wife about the incident.

Recalling the early days of his late daughter, Mr Akotile said, “She has not just been brilliant but wonderful. She did all her education from kindergarten to nursery at the Air Force base and Nigeria Defence Academy, Kaduna.

“One day, when she was very small, she pointed to one small aircraft packed on the field and said one day she was going to fly that aircraft, and I said Amen.

“So, from that day she started working towards getting admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna. She had a degree in Mathematics and became an Air Force Cadet.

“From there, she was sent on several courses abroad and became a pilot.

“I thank God that she was able to achieve her dreams as a baby before her death.”