Month: May 2025

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Chief Martin Orim Participates in the 3rd Strategic Council Meeting at FCE (Technical) Bichi, Kano

Chief Hon (Dr) Martin Orim, Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and member of the Governing Council of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi, Kano State, today participated in the institution’s 3rd Governing Council Meeting.

The meeting, held at the main campus of the college in Bichi, brought together key members of the college management, council representatives, and education stakeholders to deliberate on strategic policy matters aimed at strengthening the institution’s academic and administrative framework.

Chief Orim, who has been an active advocate for educational development in Nigeria, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting technical and vocational education through policy-driven leadership and investment in human capital.

“This institution plays a critical role in building a skilled workforce for the nation, and it is imperative that we continue support its growth through visionary governance,” Orim stated during the session.

The council reviewed ongoing projects, accreditation milestones, staff welfare initiatives, and future plans for infrastructure expansion. The outcomes of the meeting are expected to shape the institution’s roadmap for sustainable growth and academic excellence.

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DSS Recruitment: GFO Orim Foundation Calls on Trained Artisans to Apply Now

In a significant push to connect skilled youth with employment opportunities, the GFO Orim Foundation has called on beneficiaries of its vocational training programs to take advantage of current recruitment efforts by the Department of State Services (DSS).

This announcement follows a publication by Citizen Agba Jalingo, stating that the DSS is accepting applications from qualified Electricians, Plumbers, Mechanics, and Carpenters. In response, the GFO Orim Foundation is urging all artisans who were trained through its collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to apply directly at the DSS Headquarters in Calabar.

The foundation’s call targets beneficiaries across the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State many of whom acquired these technical skills through free training programs sponsored by the GFO Orim foundation in recent years.

“This is a rare and valuable opportunity for our trained artisans to transition from skills acquisition to national service and gainful employment,” said a spokesperson for the GFO Orim Foundation. “We strongly encourage all eligible individuals to present themselves at the DSS office as soon as possible.”

The GFO Orim Foundation has been at the forefront of grassroots empowerment initiatives in Cross River State, providing vocational training, scholarships, and entrepreneurial support to youths and women.

Interested applicants are advised to approach the DSS Headquarters in Calabar with the necessary credentials and evidence of training.

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Hon. Martin Orim Joins Governor Otu at Calabar Carnival 2025 Unveiling/20th Anniversary in Abuja

The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and Member of Council, Federal College of Education (FCE) Bichi, Kano State, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Martin Orim, joined Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, on Thursday at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, to unveil the theme for the 20th anniversary of Carnival Calabar.

The event, which brought together past and present political leaders, tourism stakeholders, and cultural enthusiasts, officially launched this year’s carnival theme, “Traces of Time.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the unveiling, Hon. Orim praised Governor Otu for sustaining the legacy of the carnival, describing it as a cultural light for Nigeria and the African continent. “The Carnival Calabar has become a unifying force that showcases our rich heritage to the world. It’s a symbol of pride, not just for Cross River State, but for the entire nation,” he said.

The cake-cutting ceremony, marking the 20th anniversary of the carnival, was jointly performed by Governor Otu, former Governors Donald Duke and Senator Liyel Imoke, along with APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, Chief Higgins Peters, Chief Martin Orim, National and State leaders, and other tourism stakeholders.

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BREAKING: Hon. Cyril Omini Ousted as Finance Committee Chair Over Misconduct

In a dramatic turn of events, the Cross River State House of Assembly has ousted Hon. Cyril Omini, member representing Yakurr I State Constituency, as Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation. The announcement was made during Tuesday’s plenary session by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem.

 

Omini’s removal follows mounting allegations of gross misconduct and habitual absenteeism, issues that, according to the Speaker, have severely hindered the performance of both the committee and the legislative arm at large. Lawmakers reportedly raised alarm over what they described as a dereliction of duty and leadership failure on the part of the embattled lawmaker.

 

As the Assembly moved swiftly to address the situation, a special investigative panel, chaired by Deputy Speaker Hon. Sylvester Agabi, was set up to probe the allegations. The committee has been given a 7-day deadline to submit its findings and recommendations.

 

In a strategic reshuffle aimed at restoring confidence, Hon. Okon Owuna, representing Akamkpa I State Constituency, was named as the new Chairman of the Committee on Finance and Appropriation.

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Speaker Ayambem Champions Legislative Reforms as Governor Otu Signs Three Landmark Bills into Law

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has reaffirmed his commitment to impactful governance as Governor Bassey Edet Otu signed three pivotal bills into law on Monday.

The newly enacted laws: the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency (Amendment) Law 2025, Senior Citizens Centre Law 2025, and Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law 2025, mark a significant advancement in infrastructure development, elderly welfare, and internal revenue generation.

 

Speaker Ayambem noted that the revised Road Maintenance Law introduces a strategic financing model, ensuring a 4% monthly deduction from local government federal allocations to guarantee regular road repairs.

 

The Senior Citizens Centre Law will establish a central facility in Calabar and support centers across all 18 LGAs to cater to vulnerable elderly populations, including retirees and widows.

 

Addressing the Lotteries and Gaming Law, Ayambem emphasized its alignment with a recent Supreme Court ruling, enabling states to regulate gaming. The law introduces a 12-part, 102-section framework to promote transparency and responsible gaming while boosting state revenues.

 

“These laws address real issues facing our people—economic development, elderly care, and road infrastructure,” Ayambem said, applauding his colleagues for their unified legislative efforts.

 

Governor Otu praised the Assembly’s proactive governance and hailed Speaker Ayambem as “a stabilizing force and dependable partner.” He emphasized the direct benefits these laws will bring to Cross Riverians, especially rural and elderly communities.

 

“As we mark nearly two years in office, these transformative laws underscore our unwavering commitment to the ‘People First’ agenda,” the Governor stated.

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C’River Deputy Governor Commissions, Inspects Strategic Projects in Ogoja LGA

In a bid to deepen grassroots development and improve infrastructure in Cross River State, the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, Ph.D., represented by the Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jnr , has commissioned a series of impactful projects in Ogoja Local Government Area.

The commissioned projects include the newly completed Nkem Bridge in Mbube East Ward 1, a solar-powered borehole at Ogboja in Urban Ward 2, and a hand pump borehole at Nwang Hill in Ekajuk Ward 2. In addition to the commissioning, the Deputy Governor’s representative also inspected ongoing road grading projects championed by the Ogoja LGA Chairman, Hon. Christopher Agbeh. These include the Ekpugiriya-Esham Road, the Abakpa Igoli Bypass, and the Carnival Village Road.

While addressing community members at the various project sites, Hon. Agabi commended the Chairman’s proactive developmental agenda, noting that it reflects the “People-First” governance philosophy of Governor Bassey Otu. He urged residents to safeguard the projects and make the most of the new infrastructure.

In his remarks, Hon. Christopher Agbeh highlighted that the projects stemmed from thorough needs assessments conducted during his grassroots engagement tours. He underscored the strategic significance of the Nkem Bridge, which now serves as a vital link between Ogoja and Obudu LGAs, as well as the importance of rehabilitating the Ekpugiriya–Esham Road, which had been in a deplorable state for decades. The newly constructed boreholes, he said, aim to address persistent water scarcity and curb the spread of waterborne diseases in the benefiting communities.

The commissioning ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including the Member representing Ogoja State Constituency, Engr. (Hon.) Thomas Aruku, heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), traditional leaders, and other stakeholders.

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Governor Otu’s Chief of Staff, Deputy Speaker Agabi, Barr Akiba, Other Political Heavyweights Storm Ogoja for Chairman Agbeh’s Thanksgiving

The community of Egbe Mbube in Ogoja Local Government Area was the center of political attention earlier today as dignitaries from across Cross River State converged for a grand thanksgiving ceremony in honour of the Executive Chairman of Ogoja LGA, Hon. Christopher Agbeh.

The event, held to celebrate Hon. Agbeh’s successful election and swearing-in, attracted key figures in the Cross River political landscape, including the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odinga Odey; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar; Rt Hon Legor Idagbo, Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jnr, who also represented the Speaker; and the Special Adviser on General Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba .

In their separate remarks, the state officials commended Agbeh’s leadership and early achievements in office, stating that the thanksgiving ceremony doubled as a political statement of unity and development, positioning Agbeh as a rising grassroots leader in the state. They also assured him of the government’s continued support for grassroots development and presented financial contributions toward the growth of his local church.

 

Some Cross River State lawmakers including Hon. Thomas Aruku, Hon. Omang Omang, and Hon. Brian Odey who were present acknowledged performance of Agbeh. They noted that recent projects ( bridge, boreholes and access roads) commissioned and empowerment programs were evidence to his commitment to development. The lawmakers on behalf of the Assembly donated N1 million to the church.

 

Also present were local government chairmen from across the northern senatorial district, including Chief Dr. Sunny Ayang (Obanliku), Hon. Peter Akongfe Undiandeye (Obudu), Hon. Theresa Ushie (Bekwarra), and their colleagues from Yala, Boki, Ikom, and Obubra. Speaking in solidarity, they commended Agbeh for aligning with Governor Bassey Otu’s People-First Agenda and praised his tangible impact on the lives of his constituents.

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Deputy Speaker Sylvester Agabi Joins Dignitaries to Honour Late Mother of Hon. Linus Etim in Akamkpa

The Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jnr., earlier today, paid his respects at the funeral of Ntunkae Dr. Mrs. Adiaha Okon Effiong, the late mother of Hon. Linus Bassey Etim, who represents Akamkpa II State Constituency.

Hon Agabi, fellow lawmakers and top government officials, joined a host of mourners in celebrating the life and legacy of the respected matriarch at a solemn yet vibrant ceremony held in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

Describing the late Dr. Mrs. Effiong as “a woman of great virtue and impact,” the Deputy Speaker extended his condolences to the Etim family, highlighting the pivotal role of strong family values in leadership and community service. He prayed for her soul to rest in peace.

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Assembly Wields Axe on Hazardous Trees, Pushes for Greener, Safer Cross River

In a move to safeguard lives and critical infrastructure, the Cross River State House of Assembly has directed the immediate removal and replacement of aging trees posing threats to power lines and public safety across the state.

The directive followed a motion presented during plenary on Wednesday by Hon. Francis Ogban, representing Biase State Constituency, who raised alarm over the growing danger posed by overgrown and decaying trees situated dangerously close to electrical infrastructure. According to him, many of the trees have become liabilities, risking both power disruptions and potential accidents.

“We must take preventive steps now rather than wait for disaster to strike,” Ogban warned, advocating for a strategic and environmentally balanced approach to address the issue.

Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Ovat Agbor, criticized state agencies for ignoring earlier warnings, noting that the resulting inaction has led to avoidable risks and disruptions.

Other lawmakers echoed the urgency of the matter, calling for swift and coordinated efforts to protect both citizens and essential services.

As part of its resolution, the House also charged the Ministry of Environment to begin planting safer and more suitable tree species to replace the aging ones, in a bid to maintain ecological balance while protecting infrastructure.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem commended the initiative, stating, “This House will not wait for disasters to occur before we act. We must lead with foresight, and today’s resolution is a reflection of that commitment.”

 

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BREAKING: PDP Chapter Chairman in Cross River Dumps Party, Cites Leadership Failure

In a major political shake-up ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Chapter Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State, Mr. Fabian Okwajie, has announced his resignation from the party, citing disillusionment with the party’s leadership and direction.

In a strongly worded resignation letter addressed to the Ward Chairman of Boje Ward, Mr. Okwajie expressed deep frustration with the PDP’s national leadership, accusing it of lacking vision, direction, and the capacity to deliver on the party’s founding ideals.

“The national leadership of our party has failed to provide the visionary and credible guidance required to steer the PDP toward achieving its foundational objectives,” Okwajie wrote. “Internal politicking, often driven by personal interests, has overshadowed the collective goals of the party.”

Okwajie, who has been a key grassroots mobilizer for the PDP in Cross River State, said the party’s declining relevance and internal dysfunctions have eroded the trust of supporters and stifled effective political engagement.

“The current state of the PDP is deeply discouraging, offering neither hope nor a clear roadmap for the future. This lack of direction, especially as we approach the crucial 2027 elections, has eroded the confidence of my supporters and me,” he stated.

He hinted at a possible move to a new political platform that aligns with his values of inclusiveness, accountability, and participatory democracy, although he did not immediately disclose his next political destination.

“Remaining within the PDP under the current circumstances would not only stifle my aspirations but also hinder my ability to effectively serve my people,” Okwajie added.

The resignation is expected to send ripples through the PDP’s structure in Cross River State, particularly in Boki LGA, where Okwajie has enjoyed strong grassroots support.

Party insiders say the development could trigger further defections if the PDP leadership fails to address the growing discontent among its ranks.

Efforts to reach the PDP leadership in Cross River for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.