The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem, as well as Speakers of State Houses of Assembly across the country and members of the judiciary, are currently attending a two-day retreat hosted by the National Assembly (NASS) joint committee on the review of the 1999 constitution, at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel Victoria Island in Lagos.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu, declaring the event open, stated that the National Assembly (NASS) joint committee on the review of the 1999 constitution, in collaboration with the judiciary, aims to strengthen the judiciary’s independence, shield the judiciary from political pressures, and ensure that decisions made promote the common good.
Speaking with Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem at the sidelines of the event, aligned with Kalu that the sectoral engagement was meant to address electoral disputes, uphold the principle of free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria, expand the jurisdiction of certain courts to address modern challenges and improve citizens’ access to justice and public trust in the judiciary.
The sectoral engagement, which brought together practitioners, experts, and legislators at the national and sub-national levels, was expected to yield positive outcomes, according to legislative stakeholders present at the event.
The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and Governing Council Member of the Federal College of Education in Bichi, Kano State, Chief (Dr) Hon Martin Orim, presided over the Lourdes Academy Graduation Ceremony for the 2023/2024 School Year, which took place on friday at the School’s Pavilion, in Calabar.
The graduation ceremony’s chairman, Hon. (Dr.) Martin Orim, whose daughter, Orim Beyin Marytonett, graduated among the 2023/2024 set of Lourdes Academy students, thanked the school administration for the excellent education their students receive and further cautioned the students to be good representatives of the university by abstaining from vices like cultism, drug abuse, and online fraud as soon as they advance their education.
Honourable Orim was accompanied by his amiable wife, Mrs. Ubeloka Orim, family, friends and well wishers.
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu has appointed Hon. John Monday Odo as the new Director of the Road Maintenance Agency. This appointment underscores the Governor’s commitment to the “People First” mantra of his administration, focusing on delivering quality services and improving the state’s road network.
Hon. John Monday Odo expressed profound gratitude to Governor Bassey Otu for entrusting him with this pivotal role. “I am deeply honoured and humbled by this appointment. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Governor Bassey Otu for this opportunity to serve the people of Cross River State. I pledge to work diligently to fulfill the administration’s vision and ensure that our roads are maintained to the highest standards,” he stated.
Hon. Odo emphasized his unwavering dedication to supporting the Governor’s agenda and assured the people of Cross River State that he would bring his expertise and passion for public service to the fore. “Our administration’s commitment to the ‘People First’ mantra means prioritizing the needs of our citizens. I am committed to ensuring that our road maintenance efforts reflect this dedication. We will work tirelessly to improve road safety, reduce travel time, and enhance the overall quality of life for our people.”
Hon. Odo says all good things happen through the help of God Almighty and I remain very grateful to God who places good men in a position to help and lift others, he applauded the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Sen. Stephen Adi Odey for his good work and for always carrying Yache Nation on his shoulder and he prays for God more Continues Blessings.
The Cross River State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem, has praised the State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, for prioritising tourism and revitalising the industry to meet international standards.
Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem made this known on Tuesday at the Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar, where the Cross River State Tourism Bureau presented a ten (10,000,000) million naira grant to Central District hoteliers.
Ayambem described the state government’s initiative as a historic step towards empowering and promoting tourism in the state and beyond. He stated that tourism has improved under Governor Otu’s administration, and he is optimistic that the sector will bring more development to the state in the coming days.
According to the Cross River State Government Tourism Bureau, “the event is aimed at revitalising the tourism industry, particularly through grants to hoteliers across the state as part of its support and commitment to the rehabilitation of their hotels for maximum comfort and services.”
The Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, Chief of Staff to the Speaker, Mr Anakan Ndoma, and CRSTB members were among the government officials in attendance.
Franka Undie, a Nigerian from Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State has graduated from the RUDN University with the highest distinction in Applied Mathematics and Informatics/Data Science and Digital Transformation in her Master’s degree. Her outstanding achievements include receiving a special award for her groundbreaking scientific research aimed at revolutionizing the healthcare sector through artificial intelligence (AI)
Recalled that In 2019, Franka Undie captured national and international attention when she received over 20 MSc admissions from prestigious universities around the world. Opting to pursue her studies at RUDN University, she has since demonstrated unparalleled dedication and brilliance, culminating in her recent graduation with a distinction in MSc degree.
Mrs. Okache’s MSc thesis has set a new benchmark in the application of AI in healthcare. Her research focuses on developing an AI system that not only aids doctors in decision-making but also provides clear, understandable explanations for its recommendations. This innovation is designed to enhance the decision-making process in medical practice, enabling doctors to make better-informed choices based on comprehensive patient data.
Her AI system stands out for its user-friendly interface, which demystifies complex AI algorithms, making them accessible to medical professionals without extensive technical backgrounds. This breakthrough holds the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes by ensuring that medical decisions are both data-driven and comprehensible.
Franka’s exceptional work has not gone unnoticed. She was honoured with a special award by RUDN University for her scientific contributions, highlighting the impact and importance of her research in the field of AI and healthcare. This accolade is proof of her innovative spirit and the practical relevance of her work.
Beyond her academic and research accomplishments, Mrs. Franka Matthew Okache’s personal life also reflects a commitment to excellence and service. She is married to Mr. Matthew Okache ANIPR, the Chief Press Secretary to Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly. Her family and friends are immensely proud of her achievements and the positive representation she brings to Nigeria on the global stage.
The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, on Saturday, was bestowed with the chieftaincy title of “NTON na NMON (EFAB OFFAH) 1 of Oyenghe-Nta”.
The coronation, led by His Royal Majesty, Nton Aton W02 Joseph Nkoro Njan(Rtd) the clan head of Nta East Clan, took place in Oyenghe Community of Nta Nselle Ward, in Ikom LGA.
According to Hon. Dr Eyo Denet Nsing, one of leaders in the community, the coronation was the best way to express gratitude to the Honourable Speaker, who has in different ways demonstrated his love for the good people of Nta Nselle. He recounted numerous ways where the Speaker stood for the community even in their most trying times.
Nsing praised Ayambem for playing an outstanding role in the construction of a major bridge that aided movement and a free flow of business activities across the communities and has since remained a shoulder for the people to confidently and comfortably lean on.
Speaker Ayambem was officially recognised as Nta Nselle Ward’s Chosen One by Oyenghe village chief Nton Emmanuel C. James after the coronation. He added that, going forward, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem will receive all of their votes, regardless of party affiliation.
Ayambem, in his remarks, expressed deep gratitude to the people of Oyenghe Community for their kind gesture, adding that he was greatly honoured. He urged the populace to be more patient but steadfast in their support, and he reiterated his commitment to proper democratic representation. He also predicted that bigger things would happen sooner rather than later. According to him, he has not forgotten any of the campaign promises he made and he will undoubtedly fulfil them as well as go above and beyond.
The NTON na NMON (EFAB OFFAH) 1 of Oyenghe-Nta also assured the various communities, through their village heads, that His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu’s government is deeply people-oriented, and that all concerns about the Governor’s rural development plan, which are already in motion, have received prompt attention, and that Nta Nselle is not excluded.
The event which had HRM, Nton Aton W02 Joseph Nkoro Njan(Rtd) the clan head of Nta East Clan, The member representing Boki 1 state constituency, Hon. Bette Obi, Chief Of Staff to the Speaker, Mr. Ndoma Anakan, and other prominent stakeholders across Ikom in attendance, featured the presentation of a life cow and other material gifts by the Speaker, dance performance by cultural groups, and special songs performances by different artists.
The Federation of Muslim Women’s Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN),has expressed its readiness to partner with Cross River State Government as part of efforts to improve girl child education in the state.
The State Coordinator and Ameerah of the Women’s religious organisation, Hajia Lateefah Yahaya Idinye, made the group position know when she led her executive members on a courtesy call to the Cross River Commissioner for women Affairs and Social Development, Honourable Edema Irom, in her office in Calabar.
Hajia Lateefah said, One of the core values of establishing FOMWAN was support for girl child education and empowering of women among others.
“FOMWAN envisions a country where girl child are given quality education, where women are empowered to be role models in making a positive impact in the society and where their skills are strengthened for community development.
“Girl child education goes beyond getting girls into school, It is also about ensuring that girls learn and feel safe while in school, have the opportunity to complete all levels of education, acquiring the required knowledge and skills to compete in the labour market among others.
“Also,the gains of socio-emotional and life skills needed to navigate and adapt to a changing environment is also of right and priority for young women in Nigeria especially at the school age level.
“We commend what Cross River State Government under Governor Bassey Otu is doing and we as a Muslim women Organization wants to key into the series of ongoing programmes under the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development”She explained.
Responding, the Cross River State Commissioner for women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Edema Irom, commended the Women Muslim organisation for its giant strides in the state.
She assured of partnership with FOMWAN in an efforts to change Cross River State for better ,especially in any matter related to Girl Child education ,women development, as well as Chidren welfare.
“As a ministry, we have been monitoring your activities in the recent times, the latest being your visit to Her Excellency, The wife of the Governor, Rev Eyoanwan Bassey Otu In her office. I can only advise you to keep up the good work.
“I invites you to join us in the Progressive efforts of His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s administration to Increase number of educated children,
reduce domestic and sexual violence,
Increase involvement of women in political process participation thereby improve social economic growth of our dear state” the commissioner added.
The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, on Friday, met with the Ikom Traditional Rulers Council at the Council Secretariat in Ikom Local Government Area to strengthen collaboration between members representing Ikom LGA’s two state constituencies and the traditional institution.
Rt Hon. Elvert Ayambem underlined the successful motions made in favour of Ikom LGA at the legislative chambers and reiterated his and the minority leader, Hon. Neji Abang,’s shared commitment to fostering rapid development throughout Ikom’s eleven wards during the meeting, which was held at the Paramount Ruler’s chambers.
Ayambem also praised the Royal Fathers for their efforts to maintain law and order while also fostering unity and harmony in their communities. He promised them unwavering legislative support and emphasised the government’s commitment to improving the traditional institution.
The Paramount Ruler of Ikom, His Royal Majesty, Minen, Takon Atangba Mkpe, Minen Okwa III, responded by expressing his satisfaction with the assembly members’ feedback and stressing the council’s impartiality, transparency, and dedication to justice and advancement. He urged the two state representatives to work together to revitalise Ikom LGA in his concluding remarks.
His Majesty expressed gratitude to the Governor for building a general hospital in Ikom and promised the council’s assistance in reaching progress targets.
The chief of staff to the speaker of the CRSHA, Mr Anakan Ndoma, and other important participants, including the clan and village leaders of Ikom Local Government Area, were present at the town hall meeting.
The College of Nursing Sciences Obudu Cross River State (CONSOB) on Friday held its maiden matriculation ceremony for 556 students in the 2023/2024 academic session.
In a show of appreciation, the college, led by Provost Dr (Mrs) Victoria Undeshi, recognised some stakeholders for their contributions to the institution’s establishment and subsequent development.
The Provost of the College, Dr (Mrs) Victoria Undeshi, while delivering her speech during the matriculation ceremony, congratulated the matriculants for successfully gaining admission into the institution, stating that she is proud of the students’ adventure into a new academic experience that will prepare them adequately for the challenges of later life.
The Provost of the College, Dr (Mrs) Victoria Undeshi,
According to Dr (Mrs) Victoria Undeshi, the college transformed from the School of Midwifery established in November 1952 to the College of Nursing Sciences Obudu following the accreditation of ND and HND programmes by the National Board for Technical Education on October 4th 2023 and immediately followed by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria approval for programmes such as ND/HND Nursing, Basic Midwifery, Basic Nursing Programme, Post Basic Nursing Programme.
Mrs Undeshi, on behalf of the institution’s management and staff, thanked the previous administration of Senator Ben Ayade and the current administration of Senator Prince Bassey Otu for focusing on current nursing reforms and specifically mentioning the College of Nursing in Obudu, adding that their immeasurable contribution to promoting quality health delivery and personnel speaks volumes about their policy trust.
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Eti-Eka Mrs Mary Esuku
The provost praised the Obudu Traditional Rulers Council for donating six hectares of land to the institution to meet NBTE accreditation requirements, as well as the Ministry of Education for donating classroom blocks for students and other stakeholders for their unwavering dedication to the institution’s success. She urged students to embrace academic integrity by learning and understanding the role of academic engagements as outlined in the college’s rules and regulations, as this will serve as the foundation for their success.
The Chairman of the matriculation ceremony, Chief (Dr) Hon. Martin Orim, represented by Dr U.B Ikwong
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Eti-Eka Mrs Mary Esuku while congratulating the students on their decision to join the prestigious nursing profession, explained that the profession is a calling that requires compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the service of humanity, adding that its a both challenging as well as rewarding profession.
Some of the newly admitted students,
The Chairman of the matriculation ceremony, Chief (Dr) Hon. Martin Orim, represented by Dr U.B Ikwong, tasked stakeholders present to make meaningful contributions to the institution’s development in the areas of ICT and other sectors lacking in the institution so that students can acquire the necessary knowledge to perform adequately upon graduation into society at large. He also pledged to continue working with the school’s administration to support the institution.
Some of the newly admitted students, including Ambor Favour of Basic Midwifery and Inde Blessing of the National Diploma Nursing Programme, expressed their delight at being officially admitted to the Nursing College, assuring that they will make their parents and the institution proud.
Some significant attendees at the ceremony
One of the parents present at the ceremony, Mr Adie Augustin, praised the school for raising academic standards and revealed that he had encouraged his child to attend because he thought the school, with its elite administration, would produce graduates who would do well in the job market.
Significant attendees at the ceremony included Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the governor of Cross River State, as represented by Commissioner for Health Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk; Dr. (Mrs.) Linda Ayade, the wife of the previous governor of Cross River State; Special Assistant to the Governor on Education, Kelvin Eyam; Dr. (Mrs.) Pauline Obote, the former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health; Hon. Peter Akpanke, the member representing the Bekwara, Obanliku, and Obudu Federal Constituency; Deputy Provost, Mrs. Eshigah Agbor; the Registrar Mrs. Afu Dorathey, Ada Rita among others.
The event’s highlights included the matriculating students’ procession, followed by the Provost’s procession, the Provost’s address, student capping, the cultural dance, presentations of cash awards to best students, and other award presentations to deserving stakeholders, among others.
Cross River State College of Nursing Sciences Obudu (CONSOB) has bestowed an honour upon Chief (Dr.) Hon. Hon. Martin Orim, Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and Member of the Governing Council of Federal College of Education (Technical) Bichi, Kano State.
The Chairman of the ceremony, Dr. U.B. Ikwong, who represented the awardee, Chief Martin Orim, received the award on his behalf at the Mass Capping/Matriculation Ceremony in Obudu Local Government Area in recognition of Chief Martin Orim’s developmental contributions to the institution’s founding and subsequent growth.
Chief Martin Orim, upon receiving the award, expressed gratitude to the institution’s management for considering him worthy of such recognition and promised to continue contributing to the institution’s growth.
Chief Orim received the award alongside the wife of the former Governor of Cross River State, Dr (Mrs) Linda Ayade, the former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr (Mrs) Pauline Obote, and other prominent figures who made significant contributions to the establishment of the institute.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu, declaring the event open, stated that the National Assembly (NASS) joint committee on the review of the 1999 constitution, in collaboration with the judiciary, aims to strengthen the judiciary’s independence, shield the judiciary from political pressures, and ensure that decisions made promote the common good.
