Governor of Cross River State, Sir Ben Ayade Tuesday disclosed that a production line for the manufacture of military biscuits has been completed and will soon commence production.

Ayade disclosed this while commissioning CSS’ food processing and packaging factory at Gora, near Abuja.

The governor, who has so far sent over 3000 young persons from Cross River for training at the CSS Farms, charged the latest batch of 150 trainees to concentrate on learning the latest techniques in agricultural production.

“I will send as many youths as possible here before my tenure ends. Over 3000 have been trained already, more will still be trained because we are now expanding our value chain. So, we will need some more raw materials.

“We have set up factories. We have a massive biscuit line and we don’t want to use wheat flour; we want to go using fortified cassava flour to produce our biscuits. We will fortify our flour with special vitamin A and energy to have military biscuits. All of these call for backward integration and innovation and research. But this can only happen when you have the industrial platform to be able work.

“That is why Cross Riverians will continue to come here, to gain advanced knowledge and skill in modern farming techniques, bring back the knowledge to the state, grow our cash crops and raw material dependence, and then ship into the factories that will now process for export through the Bakassi deep sea port under the kinetics of the superhighway”.


The governor said agriculture and agro-industrialization hold the key to a prosperous future, adding that it was time for the country to fully return to agriculture, devoid of the usual primitivist mentality if the country must rise beyond her present economic quagmire.

He stated that all forms of industrialization start with agro-industrialization, emphasizing that Nigeria must replace her primordial and cumbersome methods of agriculture to mechanized farming which would lead to industrialization, ultimate beneficiation process and crops value chains driven by world class technology.

The governor called on the federal government to take a facility tour of CSS farms in Gora, Nassarawa State to understudy its entire design, architecture and operations with a view to replicating same across the country.

While commending Prof. John Kenedy Opara for leading the way in agro-industrialization, agro- innovation and food security, Ayade said: “I think it is quite timely for Nigeria to realize that we can’t keep importing everything. It is time to altruistically embrace technology driven agriculture. It is time to begin to create jobs for our people, increase the foot falls in farms, reduce restiveness, banditry, armed robbery and kidnapping.

“The basis of all the insecurity we find in Nigeria is characterized by unemployment. Agriculture actually speaks to the subject. That is why it is very imperative for me to keep sending young men and women from Cross River to CSS farms to learn modern techniques and skills in farming to enable them earn a living through agriculture and its value chains.”

Earlier, beneficiaries of the training, mostly youths, expressed gratitude to the governor for what they termed a ‘life changing experience’, saying Ayade was empowering them to become next green millionaires.
Agatha Morphy, one of the trainees said the knowledge and skills gathered at CSS farms would be invested back into the state to further help boost her economy through agriculture and food value chains.

Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade Thursday vowed that his government was all out to fight illegal wood loggers in the state whose nefarious activities, he lamented, have led to progressive depletion of Cross River forest reserve.

Communities which are forest bearing, the Cross River state governor regreted, have been massively dislocated and their land mass completely eroded thus creating huge environmental challenges with a cumulative long term consequence.

Addressing newsmen in his office, the governor threatened to use any political appointee and security agents who aid and abet illegal loggers as scapegoats.

"Cross River State has 58% of the entire forest cover of Nigeria. We have growing concerns about the rate and the speed of depletion of our forests.

"It is against this background that I am sending a note of final warning that I cannot watch the complete degeneration of our forest as we see illegal logging becoming the order of the day.

"From today, anybody caught with illegal wood, your vehicle, the driver, the occupants of that vehicle, the destination of the stolen wood, the government official who is colluding, or the security operatives who are colluding or the forest guards who are colluding, will be picked up and dealt decisively with. We will ensure that we involve the entire global community to sit and watch and monitor your prosecution to ensure that justice is done", he said.

Ayade rued that the illegal loggers have now developed into full-blown armed cartels who are prepared to harm anyone standing in their way.

He, however, assured that "we are ready to use as scapegoats, one or two people who are holding top government offices or people who feel they are connected to the Governor or those who feel they are politicians and then create an impression that by the appointments they have they can now collude with illegal wood loggers.”

Continuing, the Cross River state governor said: "My administration has no interest in any person who thinks that by their status, they can deplete the forest and put the futures of generations unborn into such catastrophic and cataclysmic danger. This is unacceptable.”

He said his administration was tired of setting up conventional task forces and committees to tackle the menace and will henceforth explore other options, including a special espionage.

According to the Governor, "We are tired of the complete cycle of conspiracy and so to bulk the trend, an unknown task force which is a complete espionage on the criminality that is going on in our forests will be set up.”

The Cross River State, Executive Secretary of the Anti-forestation Agency, Reverend Dan Ushie has conveyed his congratulatory message to Chief Jude Ngaji, MP Elect - Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency by-election.

Jude, who emerge as the flag bearer and candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress in the Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency bye-election was declared winner of the election conducted on Saturday, with 22, 778 votes against the PDP candidate, Mike Usibe, who achieve 20,590 votes.

In a congratulatory memo, signed by the Executive Secretary of the Cross River State Anti-forestation, Reverend Dan Ushie, its reads;

"I wish to express his profound gratitude to the digital leader of Cross River, His Excellency, Sir Ben Ayade for his terrific support and landslide victory in the Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency Bye-Election."

"Gov. Ayade's fortitude and excellent leadership have provided much succor to the teeming members of the All Progressive Congress."

"The triumph of Hon. Jude Ngaji is a round peg in a round hole.
The apple fruit they say does not fall far from the apple tree. In spree to the APC winning fortune, Rev. Dan Ushie positively felicitates with his dear friend and brother, Chief Jude Ogbeche Ngaji on his emerge victory as the champion of the Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency By-election."

"Indeed, Your victory his a liberation to the sons and daughters of Ogoja/Yala which will stimulate growths, greatness, and prosperity to our soil."

"Together, we will stem the trend of reckless and lawless logging of wood in our territory."

Congratulations, Chief Jude Ngaji, MP Elect Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.

CROSS RIVER ADVANCEMENT LEAGUE (CROSAL)

10th February, 2022

PRESS RELEASE

Attention: Hon. Asuquo Ekpenyong (Jnr.)
Commissioner for Finance, Cross River State

"Declare or We Occupy"

Cross River Advancement League (CROSAL) is a political group mainly comprising young like-minded, vibrant and enterprising men and women of Cross River origin. CROSAL is driven by the desire to see a better Cross River that would meet the yearnings and aspirations of the masses.


1. Our action today is a product of necessity and born out of our resolute commitment to the advancement of Cross River State.

2. Since 2015, we have been keenly observing the political trajectories in the state, taking note of activities of key actors in government and outside the government with a view to identifying those who are sincerely committed to the growth and development of the state in their respective capacities.

3. While we attest that many have demonstrated enormous passion and obligation in various distinctive ways to advance the statecraft given our present circumstances, one man, in our judgment and estimation has proven his mettle. He has been able to distinguish himself in work, service and character.

4. He absolutely understands the Ayade vision for a better Cross River and had wholly keyed into the lofty ideals and blueprint of the governor from day one, manning a critical position in the government of the day since its inception in 2015.

5. His performance as Commissioner for finance has been phenomenal. Even with the distressed condition of the state’s revenue, his shrewd administrative expertise, energized by governor Ben Ayade's economic re-engineering, intellect and adept management of human and resources, has greatly contributed to bringing financial stability to the state through several models of innovative thinking.

6. We also know he is an unrepentant believer of Ayade and Ayadeism.

7. Well read, smart, savvy, vibrant and young, Asuquo Ekpenyong jnr. has exemplified integrity, tenacity, sagacity, capacity and diligence. He has been an inspiration to the young and a perfect example of the resilience of the Cross River youth; an embodiment of the genuine hopes, wishes and aspirations of an average Cross Riverian.

8. We have a strong conviction that young and intellectually mobile Asuquo Ekpenyong (with a rich and vast network of both local and international contacts and institutional alliances), is eminently qualified and suited for the governorship of Cross River State in 2023.

9. It is on this premise that we make this clarion call on him to consider running for the governorship of the state and duly declare his intention to vie for the position within 3 weeks from today 10th February, 2022.

10. Failure to declare within the stipulated period, we will mobilize 2000 youths to occupy the State’s Ministry of Finance and his Residence until he obliges to our call. We are resolute; and we make this call with all sense of purpose, commitment and responsibility.

11. Hon. Asuquo Ekpenyong (Jnr.) Commissioner for Finance, Cross River State: Declare or We Occupy!

Thank you and God bless Cross River.

Signed:
Azogor Ideba
Chairman CROSAL/Chairman LOC, "Declare or We Occupy".

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Lobby Committee, has announced plans to host over 30,000 youths in Cross River State.

This was made known by the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Mr. Oden Ewa while addressing the press on Wednesday in Calabar.

Mr. Ewa stated that the state lobby group which was inaugurated two weeks ago is geared towards promoting youth inclusiveness in governance.

Ewa explained that Cross River State youth are resilient, energetic and prepared to take over leadership in the state. He added that they are ready to mobilize the youths across the 196 wards to U. J Esuene Stadium on Saturday, 19th February.

He went further to say that they are going to thank the Governor of Cross River State, Sir Ben Ayade for running a youth inclusive government in the state and they are happy with the government.

Mr. Oden further stated that the committee intend to mobilise youths across the state to key into the APC agenda adding that “It will be a carnival of sort meant to galvanise support across the state on the mandate of the APC. “We have put together a good structure meant to coordinate the 196 wards of Cross River State. Modalities are already in place and we are using innovation to achieve our goal.”

Also speaking, Mr. Francis Ekpo, SA Obudu Ranch said ‘This is the only state that you have a lot of youths in government and these youths have all it takes to sustain the legacy of the present administration.”

Ubi Franklin, Special Adviser Tourism said the summit is meant to showcase what the youths have done in the state. He added that “The future is for young people”.

The DG, CRISSA, Mr. Effiom Effiwatt said ‘This is a very bold attempt for young people in the state to showcase that we are ready and give opportunity for other youths who want to be part of the government to come together and make a bold statement that we are ready and come 2023, young people will be heard.”

The DG of Primary Health Agency, Dr. Janet Ekpenyong said “The summit is to appreciate the Governor who has been very friendly with youths and women in his government. It is also to galvanise more support for the youths to be given opportunity to take up leadership positions in the state. We expect to see all youths because it is time to get involved.”

On his part, Prince Michael Abuo, the DG Migration said “The APC is an idealogy that is geared towards promoting youth inclusiveness in governance. There is need for crowdfunding for a youth endowment funds meant to support the aspirations of young people.”

The summit is being put together by youths in governance as well as others from all works of life. Speakers will be drawn from leaders and young people who have impacted positively in the state over the years. They will be drawn from Politics, Entertainment, Business, Education etc.

The Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Senator, Godswill Akpabio, and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) have donated rice worth N10 million to Chapter Excos of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State.

Speaking during the distribution of the items to the Exco members of Calabar South, Akpabuyo, Odukpani, and Akamkpa chapters of the Party in Calabar on Wednesday, Chief Orok Duke said the exercise has been going on for the past 25 years.

He said, unlike previous exercises where the items were cornered by a few persons, the 2021 and 2022 distribution he was appointed to oversee, recorded some successes.

According to Duke who joined the APC recently, “It’s just unfortunate that for over 22 years it had not been so widely distributed like it is being done for the last two years. All thanks to the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Godswill Akpabio because he insisted it should touch as many youths as possible.

Cross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade has expressed confidence in the ability of the Senate Adamu Abdullahi led-nine-member All Progressives Congress (APC) Reconciliation Committee to calm frayed nerves in the party.

The Committee whose members include the Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr Betta Edu was in Calabar for a courtesy call on the governor.
Speaking while welcoming the Committee members at the State Executive Council Chamber of the Governor's Office Calabar, Ayade said he was optimistic that the APC will emerge from its current challenges stronger and more united.

According to the governor, "Today, we have so many gladiators and today we are the ruling party, but what I know for sure is that at the last minute, APC will always come together and win again and again.

"For those who have some complex permutations that perhaps this crisis or this tension arising from the congresses and perhaps the potential national congress ahead of us will bring to an end the APC, they are just joking.

"In my short stay in the party, the warmth and embrace I have received, I know for certain that as soon as we are done with the convention, with the great work your committee is doing, the party will put her acts together and start preparing against 2023"
Appealing to APC faithful to embrace the principle of give and take, the governor said: "I want to commend you and to please use this opportunity to talk to our political party members who have so much strength by the positions they occupy to please, give us room to share power. It is only by sharing power that there is peace."

Earlier, Senator Abdullahi who is a former Nassarawa state governor commended Governor Ayade for the peace in the Cross River chapter of the party.

According to him, "we didn't come here because there are issues in Cross River and that's a big commendation to the Governor, people underestimate peace when they have it on a platter.

"Those who enjoy the kind of tranquillity you have here will understand the point we are making, we are happy the APC family is united in Cross River and all we have been hearing from all stakeholders is positive"
He pledged the committee's commitment to unite all aggrieved members within the party.

Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade, has again reiterated his commitment to ensuring that power reverts to the Southern Senatorial District of the state come 2023.
Speaking at the Governor’s Lodge at the weekend, Ayade said his decision to return power to the South is based on morality.
“During my campaign for second term I went to the South. I said support my second term bid and when l win I will support South to take over from me because by natural process, you are the next senatorial district to produce the governor."
The governor insisted that the South has credible people with capacity to be governor.
According to him, before he became governor, “there was no chance that the North was capable of credible candidates until l came on board. So there is no senatorial district that does not have the right candidates to be governor of the state."
Governor Ayade who decried the nature of democracy as currently being practiced, arguing that there was need to infuse the sensitivity of the African culture "because we inherited a brand of democracy which is not afrocentric, neither does it have the sensitivity of the African culture and morality.
"Democracy is so primitively blind that it reduces itself to numbers. The higher your population, the more you win. So there is nothing like balancing, there is no equity in democracy. There is no moral conscience. Democracy is blind to ethnicity, it is blind to religion, it is blind to fairness, it is repugnant to natural justice."
He called for a paradigm shift, even as he flayed the lack of opportunities and inclusion for the disadvantaged in the polity.
"So, if you are in the majority population, you can continue to rule forever because you have the higher voting strength. It denies the child of a poor man from one ethnic group who is well trained and has everything to lead the state or the country, from becoming governor or president because he is from an ethnic minority. That is a failed society because the chance for my child and your child is differentiated not by their quality or character, not by their content or proficiency but by just a mere geographical place of birth."
Ayade who dispelled speculations that he is backtracking on his commitment to return power to the South said: "So to be able to balance that, as governor, I still uphold my declaration that my successor will come from the South and indeed, he would come from the South. And for emphasis, yes, he would come from the South."
The governor said he could not and would not play God by being specific on who his successor will be.
According to him, "to make further statements as to where in the South, l will be acting God and to decide who in the South that will be suceeding me l would also be acting God. My role is to be fair. The South had taken turn to produce a governor in Donald Duke, the Central had also produced a governor in Senator Liyel Imoke and the North has produced one in me.
"So it is common sense that we must go back to the South for equity. Every zone should know that their turn would come one day. But to be blind and leave it to crude democracy which was not customized to reflect African sensitivity, that if l have had it, and no matter the circumstance, let another too have it.”

Coming from ancient eras, "Agriculture has continued to prevail as the backbone of Africa's economic civilization." It is, however, significant to concede with the gigantic gaits of the Cross River State Governor, His Excellency, Professor Benedict Ayade, realistic endeavors to industrialize the agro-sector and significantly cultivate employment in the processing, packaging, transportation, distribution, advertising, and marketing of agribusinesses for youths and women in rural territories.

The Governor, Sir. Ben Ayade has ascertained vast agro-industries in agrarian areas of Cross River which also administers as an off-taker to rural farmers across the State.

With the innumerable formation of ultra-modern industries assembled by the number one citizen, Sir Ben Ayade, it has proliferated agriculture to stay amongst the second largest employer of labor in Africa.

Exploring a few of the automated factories, as initiated by the Governor, we have; The Calachika - Chicken Processing Factory, Justifying the establishment of the frozen chicken factory, "Calachika," was poised to create job opportunities for young Cross Riverians in the state while taking advantage of protein deficiency in Africa. Already, the chicken factory processed no fewer than 24000 birds per day and it is sold at a subsidized rate.

Also, Professor Benedict, regretted the fact that although Africa accounts for eighty-six percent of world cocoa production, unfortunately, in terms of the economic gains it's only six percent%, which means that Africa produces 86% of cocoa, export the cocoa beans, and in turn goes back and import chocolate into Africa, the governor, Ayade was poised to establish the Cocoa Processing Factory in Ikom Local Government, the plant which is the largest in Africa and processed over 30000 tonnes per annum, certainly, this has created jobs for the teeming youths and women in Cross River State.

Similarly, Ayade's aggressiveness to curb food starvation in Africa, shepherded the Cross River State-owned 10-ton per hour ultra-modern rice mill located in Ogoja Local Government, the mill is the first of its kind in Africa moreover, an outstanding world-class vitaminized rice mill having a storage capacity of 240 tons per day, at 24 hours operation. This sector has ad-lib the state frugality, build careers, and woo leading investors.

Additionally, on the installed capacity of the auxiliary factory as initiated by the governor, Ben Ayade, he established a Vegetables Oil Processing Factory in Bekwarra Local Government Area, the vegetable oil plants mill produces 12,000 liters per hour. The system refines the raw groundnuts, through a drying and deshelling process and further to a granulation from where it's going through the pressing bout. The factory has lenient groundnut farmers in the region while also satisfying as an off-taker.

More so, In securing, rural communities access to agricultural opportunities, Senator Ayade founded, “Calavita” noodles factory in Calabar, the noodles is a digital replacement of the existing noodles, it is made up of delicate organic rice as opposed to wheat and its come in three flavors – rice, chicken, and suya. The noodles factory in Ayade Industrial Park is, nonetheless, an imperial employer of labor in Calabar.

Other, agro-factories solidified by the Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade includes; Rice and Seedling Factory, Bio-Fertilizer Factory, et Al.

In the fullness of time, the globe will see that Cross River State is in the ethical direction and the African's dream of industrializing agriculture is manifesting in Nigeria through Ayade's agro-footprints, as our wealth creation and African economy diversification drive is beginning to yield an optimistic effect.

*David Peter is the Special Assistant to Governor Ayade on Digital Media*

Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade has assured that the implementation of the report of the Debt Review and Project Development Commission which he set up last year would not be an instrument for witch-hunt.

Speaking at the Conference Hall of the Governor's Office, Calabar, while receiving the report, the governor maintained that the contents of the report would help guide the next governor on the tenor of his administration.

The report outlined Cross River's debt profile, projects and their completion among other items spanning two decades.

According to Ayade, "in the tradition and history of Cross River, we are brothers and we are our brothers' keepers. This report is intended to guide us in making decisions going forward and not intended to witch hunt anybody or any group of persons.

"So whatever we find in the report, we will try to implement the recommendations to the extent that it can bring value to the state.

"It is not our intention to look backwards but to learn from the past and develop a future that is stable and strong."

According to Ayade "by virtue of this report, whoever is the incoming governor would not have to go to the primary data in kickstarting his administration as I did."

While explaining that the report will also help him avoid what he described as "Exit Syndrome", the governor praised members of the committee for doing a good job.

"I am happy that you are led by a very competent chairman and secretary with members stretching from every sector like the maritime industry, to the legislature.

"You have done a great job of taking a full surgical perspective and overview and a detailed crystallization of the entire debt profile of our state.

"I am also happy that your report contains details of projects, project completion, value for money analysis and all that I need to have that gives me a background that is close to almost 20 years to be able to equip me with all the information that I need to develop the Cross River 30-year development plan."

Earlier, Chairman of the 12-member Commission, Barrister Chris Agara thanked the governor for allowing them the opportunity to serve the state.

The opportunity, he said, "has opened our eyes to know what the issues of the state are. It has made us understand the enormous burden and responsibilities on your shoulders to manage the revenue and resources of the state that has been so depleted before your assumption of office.”

Other members of the Commission included Architect Bassey Ndem, Secretary; Dr Francis Ntamu, High Chief Higgins Peters and Chief E.J. Williams, among others.

Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade, has said the uncontrolled importation of foreign technology into Nigeria has made the country not fully independent.

According to him, no nation is truly independent if it is technologically dependent.

Ayade stated this, yesterday, in Abuja at the Joint Action Congress of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) award.

At the ceremony organised to honour Nigerians who have contributed significantly towards the repositioning of the agency, the governor, who was also a recipient of the award, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for approving one per cent of the Federation Account for NASENI.

Data released recently by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) had said 90 per cent of technologies powering the Nigerian economy were imported

But Ayade lamented that without the development of local technology, “the independence of Nigeria in 1960 was a mere political independence.”

He added: “True independence is when Nigeria becomes self-reliant in technology and engineering and that’s why NASENI has come with the presidential approval for the agency to have her dues by what is provided by the constitution for them to have one per cent of the federation account.”

By David Peter

Cross River State Governor, His Excellency, Sir Ben Ayade has recently fulfilled his pledge to restore parliamentary road light at nighttime, after twelve (12) years of power negligence at parliamentary extension in Calabar, the Cross River State, Capital.

This development appears after the governor, Ben Ayade earlier rehabilitated street lights to no fewer than twenty (20) remotes areas in Calabar-South gripped with darkness for over ten (10) years.

Speaking with newsmen during the installation of the transformer at parliamentary extension in Calabar. The Cross River State Commissioner of Power, Rt. Hon. Victor Agwu, indicated that, the chronic operation to restore the street/road lights in the area, is to obstruct robberies, to enrich and protect businesses during nightfall, to strengthen the security crew in the community, and to safeguard the residents during workout or movement at nights.

The Commissioner, similarly disclosed that, the street lights in the metropolis are primarily sourced from the Ayade Power Plants, which is situated at Parliamentary Extension in Calabar.

Also, speaking, the Deputy Director & Head, Engineering Services of the CRS Ministry of Power, Engineer Effiwatt Archibong, frowned at the peak of cable thefts and vandalization of the transformer substation in the area, he confided to the newsmen that, the Cross river State Ministry of Power has opted to install the transformer above the ground level to curtail hoodlum from looting the cables.

"The transformer is forthwith mounted on the poles to stave off hoodlums looting the iron cores and armored cables which are the main source of the power diffusion. "Also, we have engaged the vigilantes and Operation Akpakwu to secure the power stream to avoid thefts, snatching them away," Engineer Effiwatt, Said.

The community dwellers, however, commended the phenomenon strides of the governor for the repairs of the road lights.

The residents and traders unified that, the restored road lights will assist strengthen the security resilience of vigilantes in the neighborhood and boost their businesses to flourish during night falls, "We can now stay longer till 10 pm to sell here, rather than, closing our shops by 8 pm," the Trader's Soliloquized in Excitement.

Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has lamented the passing of Second Republic Senate President, Dr Joseph Wayas, describing his death as a monumental loss to Cross River State in particular and Nigeria as a whole.

Dr Wayas died in the early hours of Tuesday in a London hospital.

In a press statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Christian Ita, Ayade said Dr Wayas left indelible footprints on the sands of time.

"As a state, Cross River is in pains as we mourn the passing of our illustrious son. He was a rare gem. Dr Wayas' demise is indeed a monumental loss to our dear state and Nigeria", Ayade was quoted as saying in the statement.

According to the governor, " as Senate President, Dr Wayas contributed to the deepening of Nigeria's democratic ethos through his robust and vibrant leadership of the upper legislative chamber.

"And since his retirement from active politics, the former Senate President had been playing a fatherly and stabilising role in the politics and affairs of our state.”

He condoled with Dr Wayas’ family, assuring them that his demise is a collective loss and the pains a shared one.

“We are with you in this moment of grief. We have you in our hearts and prayers,” the government assured the deceased family.

Cross River State governor, Prof Ben Ayade, weekend, tasked orthopedic surgeons in Nigeria to devise local local solutions to addressing bones and joints problems suffered by patients.

Ayade gave the charge during the 44th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nigerian Orthopedic Association at the Monty Suite, Calabar.

The governor who lauded the association for the choice of Calabar as venue for the conference, with the theme: "The Burden of Geriatric Trauma", noted that the theme of the conference could not have been more apt.
This, he said, is because “as othorpaedic surgeons, you are the greatest nightmare of the public. The sight of an orthopedic surgeon brings sanity to your life, because the truama that comes with it, is an absolute nightmare."

Challenging the orthopedic surgeons to begin to look inward for solutions to what has become an old-age problem, Ayade regretted that "geriatric surgery, which has to do with old age, is something you cannot control. It is a natural phenomenon."

Decrying the pains associated with orthopedic treatments, Ayade asked: "What have you orthopedic surgeons done to see how you can devise a solution for this trauma? No treatment, unless it is half treated, could come with pains. Since it is a scientific conference, l will rather leave you with these challenges."

Speaking further on the attendant pains and trauma that come with bone surgery, he further enquired: "First, is there any way we can snap off the pain by somehow sending a code that can put the sensory nerves into absolute control so that they can put the pain under control in the process of surgery?"

Continuing, he needled the bone surgeons: "Is there a scientific possibility that we can reverse the lack of minerals in the bones? Is there a possibility to sustain muscular functions with age? It is a scientific conference, because it is scientific, it is supposed to be research oriented and the discussions are supposed to be apt.

"So, why will you, as othorpaedic surgeons limit yourselves to the current practices? After all, it is calcium and phosphate. You can also get proteins which are major properties held together by calcium and phosphate to sustain the bones at optimal performance even at old age. Orthopedic challenge is global but the solution has to be local because lifestyle is different, as our food is local."

The governor who promised to engage some orthopedic surgeons to man the orthopaedic unit of the Cross River-German Specialist Hospital, Obudu, challenged the conference to come out with specific international statement that challenges orthodox believes.
“So I look forward to a Calabar Declaration that would scientifically question most of the previously held belief systems of medicine and othorpaedic trauma in particular."

Earlier, Chairman of the Nigerian Orthopedic Association, Zone 3, Dr. Cosmas Ihezie, thanked Governor Ayade for his support for the conference to be hosted in Calabar.
He also particularly commended the governor for the provision of an 18-seater bus to the local Nigerian Medical Association.

Sent from my iPhone

As today's signifies the World Orphans Day celebration on November 8, a significant epoch, declared by Worldwide Organization for Charity (WOC) for nations across the globe to unite and reflect affection towards the orphanage cabins in their society, neighborhood, and constituency.

In commemoration to strengthen the ideals of humanitarian goodwill towards these children gloabally, the Cross River State Commissioner for Humanity and Social Welfare Services, Hon. Mrs. Blessing Egbara clarified that “Kids without families are more vulnerable in our society.”

While commending, the Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade, for his vast benevolence and interest to the downtrodden. She said, “There are estimated over 1.2 million trafficked children each year and currently 14 million orphans are living in the world today, more than 130 million children have lost one of their parents, according to UNICEF.”

Hon. Blessing affirmed that, “Ayade's humanitarian gesture to furnish the orphanage with requisites has always been striking. "Recently, the governor allocated food worth millions of naira to inmates and four refugees settlements in Ogoja Local Government.”

Continuing, the Cross River State humanitarian boss said, "today's 'World Orphans Day' festival is a customary practice of the Governor, Sir Ben Ayade's humanitarian lifestyle and scheme in his administration.”

The Commissioner, however, urged affluent individuals in the state to stretch a helping hand to orphans in their proximity on this historic day, demonstrating that, the government will continue to boost the well-being of orphans.

Her word: “The pandemic of homeless and orphaned children is exponentially growing. “The Cross River State Government will go on with its bellicosity via the Ministry of Humanity in Governor Ben Ayade led administration to enrich the orphanages their day-to-day requisite to augment their social life."

By: David Peter

The need to stamp Cross River nay Nigeria on the world tourism map is the major driving force behind the ongoing construction of the Obudu International Passenger and Cargo Airport, so says Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade.

The Obudu Airport is situated close to the iconic Obudu Mountain Resort.

Ayade expressed optimism that the airport project will be completed in a record time.

According to him, "it is important for Nigerians to know why we are constructing the Obudu International Passenger and Cargo Airport in Obudu.

"We want to make the issues of tourism in Nigeria start and end in Cross River State with Obudu Ranch Resort, Honeymoon Resort and the airport as a flagship.

"That is why we are building the airport with 5.6 runway, the longest in Nigeria to enable both tourism and business thrive around the Ranch environment with the airport"

On progress of work at the airport, the governor said: "We started March 2021 and the stage we are now is impressive with major requirements on ground ,and we are almost done in terms of other utilities like the observation tower which is at the last stage.

"The fire fighting and utility buildings are at the last stage and the main terminal building almost completed .

"The cutting of the hard terrain of the airport is by no means a small job and the federal government should come and look at what we are doing with serious attention.”

Describing the airport as the "link between the South and Northern Nigeria just as the Superhighway and Bakassi deep seaport", he invited the federal ministry of Aviation to the site to access the progress of work.

The Cross River state Governor commended the Minister for Aviation, Hadi Sirika for promising to support the cargo wing of the airport with facilities when operational.

Also speaking, Senior Special Adviser On Technical Matters to the governor, Eric Akpo assured that given the level of work at the airport, the April 2022 completion target was achievable.

The state Governor, Professor Ben Ayade has presented food items worth millions of naira to inmates of the four refugee settlements in the Ogoja Local Govt Area.

The items from the state processing industries, the kisimie noodles, and the Calachika chicken industry were given to Adagon one and three, Okenge and Danare refugee settlement camps.

Flagging off the food distribution program at Aragon one camp, senator Ayade who spoke through the commissioner for Humanity and social welfare services, Mrs. Blessing Egbara explained, the gesture was to demonstrate the humanitarian attitude of the Governor.

Prof. Ayade assured that the state government will continue to make life comfortable at the settlement camp with the provision of necessities including shelter and commended the peaceful co-existence in the camp.

He prayed for a peaceful resolution in Cameroon to enable them to return to their father's land.

Speaking earlier, the chairman of Ogoja Local Govt Area, Mr. Emmanuel Ishabor disclosed that the refugees found themselves in Cross River after a civil war, which broke out from Cameroon four years ago adding that they had to abandon business, homes, farmlands for the safety of their lives.

The Director-General state Emergency Relief Management Agency, Mr. Iyim Princewill announced that the four settlement camps are Occupied by 27,000 households which increases daily.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Kele Harrison Ashu and Mrs. Mero Bello thanked the state Governor, Professor Ben Ayade for remembering them with the gift which will change their diet and appealed for the restoration of their cash-based intervention stipends that was reduced from the original amount.

The Commissioner started the distribution exercise by presenting cartons of Noodles and chicken to weak and handicapped persons and visited the elderly and most vulnerable who could not make it to the venue of distribution.

Meanwhile, the state government has commended the host Community of the refugee settlement at Ogoja for their understanding and acceptance of the Cameroonian refugees in their land.

The Governor's representative, commissioner Blessing Egbara made the commendation when she visited the village head of Ishibori, the host community of the refugee camp.

He noted that the government was aware of their understanding and accommodating approach and expressed appreciation for being a good host.

Responding, the village head of Ishibori, Chief Thomas Ekuga acknowledged that his people received the refugee with warmth and emphasized the need for them to sustain the peace amongst them.

Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has charged Surveyors to take their rightful place in the march towards sustainable economic development of the country saying they are critical to the industrialisation of Nigeria.

The governor made the charge while declaring open the fourth annual retreat for members of Surveyors Council of Nigeria, SURCON, with the theme, “Repositioning SURCON for Better Serving Delivery.”

The retreat which will last from October 31st to November 5th, 2021, is holding at the Obudu Ranch Resort.

Governor Ayade told the Surveyors that in a modern society, “there is no step you take without getting a surveyor.

Even today, in interior decorations, surveyors are now involved. Even in the making of simple things like chairs, you have to get the markings right and get the shape right. Once any articulate definitions of measures and lines are involved, you have to get a surveyor.

“Therefore surveyors are at the epicentre of the governance…Surveying is at the heart of industrialization and development today.”

Continuing, the Cross River state number one citizen said: “You must take the bull by the horn because no one will recognize you unless you recognize yourselves.

“I want you to stand up and claim your right because the surveyor is far ahead every other consideration. Even in the Agro-Industrialization I am doing, I cannot do my irrigation without a proper survey , so how do you even think about crop growth, crop yield without talking about the survey?”

He commended the council for the choice of Obudu, his hometown, for the retreat, describing the move as heartwarming.
Ayade maintained that the Surveyors’ choice of Obudu Ranch Resort for their retreat “despite obvious challenges shows that you are prepared to give Nigeria a chance.”

Earlier, SURCON Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Kabir Muhammed lauded the governor’s strides on agro- industrialisation, describing him as the best governor in Nigeria in terms of Agric production, “particularly in rice”
Hear the SURGEON boss: “When we as members of the council were deliberating on where best suits this theme, the first place that came to mind was Cross River State and it was unanimously agreed that we should be here because Cross River State is headed by one of the most distinguished sons and in particular a man who so loves our profession.”

Explaining the rationale behind the choice of venue for the retreat, he disclosed that “the members of the council and the council itself felt if there was anything to learn, this is the place to come and learn and we chose Obudu. Why? Because from anywhere you land by air you will have to traverse cross River State and in doing so, we have been able to see the monumental achievements and development by his Excellency Professor Ayade.”

The Cross River state government has described the ongoing industrial action by organised Labour in the state as politically motivated.

It wondered why Labour was bent on strike even when government has met 14 of their demands with just one remaining.

A statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Ben Ayade on Labour Matters, Comrade Effiong Ita Umo, reiterated the government's readiness to sign a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU with organised Labour provided an amicable resolution based on the principle of  give and take is reached.

He regretted labour's rigid stand and accused it of deliberately misinforming the public as to what transpired in the last negotiation meeting both parties held.

"Labour's conduct and utterances further give a flip to the insinuation that the industrial action it embarked upon has political undertone.

"How does one explain Labour's continued obstinancy and rigidity even when government has met 14 of their demands with just one remaining? What explanation does Labour has for deliberately misinforming the public as regards its meeting with the government if not to score some cheap political goals?, the statement querried.

Continuing, Comrade Umo said: “For the avoidance of doubt, contrary to Labour's claim, the meeting  between it and government ended in a deadlock because labour representatives walked out of the meeting without reaching an understanding with the government.

"They failed to accept the fact that during negotiation, every action must be suspended to give room for normal ground. They also insisted on meeting with the Governor for negotiation instead of those the Governor had mandated to discuss with them"

He expressed government’s willingness to sign an MOU with Labour whenever it is ready "but MOU cannot be entered into when there is no understanding on both sides.”

APPRECIATION FROM MRS BLESSING EGBARA

It is with deep sense of gratitude that I write to appreciate all of you who have poured, from the abundance of your hearts, your feelings of excitements and love through your congratulatory and goodwill messages over the recent prestigious award given to me by the Human Right Writers Association of Nigeria as "Human Right Champion 2021". Most especially, let me thank my boss, His Excellency, Senator Professor Ben Ayade, the Digital Governor of Cross River State who has created the platform of humanity as a primary weapon to fend-off the crude trials of poverty that has plagued our unprivileged society.

I, hereby, dedicate this award to the less privileged in our society and those in Social Institutions (orphanages, correctional Centres and psychiatric facilities) whose conditions are no fault of theirs. They must be comforted with the assurance that there would always be light at the end of the tunnel.
Thank you all indeed.

In a bid to ensure greater participation by Cross Riverians, the state governor, Prof. Ben Ayade has extended by two months, the referendum which seeks to gauge the opinion of indigenes of the state on whether industries constructed by his administration should be privatized or not.

Ayade gave the extension order on Thursday when the Technical Team of the Privatization Council gave a presentation of about 34 industries to be privatized by the council to make for optimal output.

Speaking after the presentation, Governor Ayade said there was no room for lapses or error, stressing that his reason for extending the exercise by two months was to create opportunity for more people to participate in the exercise.

Although not a requirement of the Privatization Law, Ayade insists on a referendum to ensure government is on the same page with the people regarding the future of the industries.

His words: " You must return to the streets, local government areas, creeks and riverine communities, our people must be properly carried along. If we truly need their contributions, then we must do it with all sincerity and professionalism.

"I cannot take a decision based on what you have given me because the opinion is based on that of a few people, more Cross Riverians must be given the opportunity, more field responses must be taken, more people must participate in the referendum exercise.

"We are ready to put in more money to ensure you increase campaign and awareness on the streets, in the markets as well as all the communities and local government arrear. They must be effective public awareness.

"I am not playing politics with this. We should not be in a haste to get it right. I need to hear what the people want. If they say they don't want privatisation, after my tenure I will pack my bags and walk away.”

According to Ayade, "The 2001 privatisation law gives me the authority to call up private investors myself but I said no and I decided that we do the right thing which is to actively involve the people and get their opinion. That is what we must do.

"I want to see you in the market places, I want to hear and see sensitisation, I want to see the real participation as our people are filling the questionaires so that history will know that we really consulted the people," he said.

Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the Privatization Council, Mr John Odo disclosed that it was the first time in the history of privatisation in Cross River that the people will be consulted in this manner.

He added that the move was in tandem with the governor's principle of ethics, transparency and accountability.

Odo said: "Your Excellency, in the history of privatization in Cross River State, this is the first time that the government is conducting a referendum which will enable citizens to vote, to either accept or reject government initiative(s).

"This again is in tandem with the Governor's principle of ethics, transparency and accountability. Right from when we were appointed, we knew that a great task lay ahead of us to deliver on our mandate and mission of moving away from government ownership, control and participation in the economy towards free enterprises and increased operation of market.

"Your Excellency you may wish to recall that it is your determination an aspiration to finish strong and even surpass the expectations in the development of the state by your governance strategy of participatory and inclusive governance where the people come first.

"In pursuance of good governance and to positively impact on our people by improving their standard of living, you adopted the model of agro Industrialization to create employment, increase internally generated revenues, decouple the state from over dependence on federal allocation, etc.

"To diversify and grow the State economy considering our comparative and competitiveness advantages in agriculture and solid minerals, you adopted industrialization with the establishment of agro-allied industries to create jobs for our people which is one of the indices for measuring good governance anywhere in the world."

"Having established these industries, the issue of management remains a huge challenge to guarantee sustainability and efficiencies in operations.”

Cross River State Government has called on the Muslim faithful to pray against Banditry, killings, and another Insecurity in Nigeria as Muslim Ummah celebrates the birth of holy prophet Muhammed, the Eid-El Maulud.

Special Adviser to Governor Ben Ayade on Muslim Affairs, Alhaji Tanimu Hassan, stated this in a statement issued to commemorate the 2021 Eid El aloud celebrations in Cross River State.

He said other states in Nigeria should emulate Cross River's effort in peace building and mutual coexistence between different people of a different faith, yet living peacefully without religious or ethnic bias.

“As we rejoice in the celebration of the birth of Prophet Mohammed, let us be mindful of the need to pray for peace and unity among the citizens, which form the fulcrum for the progress of our dear country.


“These challenging times call for fervent prayers for Allah to intervene towards the sustenance of our cherished country as well as the enthronement of leaders that will truly meet the yearnings and aspirations of the generality of the people”, Hassan added.

The special adviser also called on Nigerians to continue to live in harmony and be tolerant of each other, irrespective of religion, tribe, or ethnic sentiments.

Following the total strike action being embarked upon by the organized labour in the state which entered its second day today, the State Governor Sen Prof Ben Ayade has ordered commissioners, Special Advisers, and all political appointees to resume work immediately as they were not part of labour.

This directive was contained in a press release signed by the Secretary to the State Government Barr Tina Banku Agbor in Calabar today.

The release similarly directed all civil servants serving in the Governor's office to report for duties in line with an established protocol that demands their presence at their duty post even at moments like this.

It warns that severe disciplinary actions will be taken against appointees and workers who failed to adhere to the directives.

David Peter

Cross River State Director-General, Road Maintenance Agency, CRROMA, Dr. Engineer Thomas Aruku, has congratulated the Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Governor, Honourable Martins Orims, on the conferment as an Honourary Fellow, Honoris Causa, in Educational Administration, bestowed on him by the University of Calabar, in Cross River State.

Lauding the recipient feats on Wednesday, while speaking with pressmen on the conferment, Engineer Thomas said currently preponderance of individuals with disabilities in the Cross river community has been alleviated with human capital development via Martins Orim Foundation. He extolled the recipient for his contributions to the development of agrarian communities and Cross River State at large.

Engineer Thomas, urged the awardee to continue to do his best in promoting a healthy philanthropic tradition, in his efforts to bring good governance to his people despite the challenge of limited resources.

The Director-General, however, applauded the Nigerian Association Administration and Planning (NAEAP) for their commitment to producing globally relevant, competitive, and entrepreneurship-minded graduates in the citadel of learning.

Poultry production and protein intake in Cross River in particular and Nigeria in general recently received a major boost as the ultra-modern Cross River state Poultry Farm Limited began the evacuation of birds from the facility to the Cross River Chicken Processing factory.


Situated at Odukpani, an outskirt of Calabar, the Poultry farm and the chicken processing factory both have installed capacity of 24000 birds per day.


The factory and the poultry are part of agro-based industries established by the administration of Governor Ben Ayade to create an economy for the state as well as jobs for the youth.


According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr Christian Ita, Calachika which has been ready since last December suffered from inadequate supply of birds prompting the governor to speed up completion of the Poultry Farm.


"We are happy and excited that we are on the verge of producing chicken for commercial consumption. 

So, these are good times. Some persons who thought that this was all a mirage can now see that it is real. The birds are available and as such Calachika will be producing daily near it’s installed capacity.”


Production Manager of Calachika Chicken processing factory, Mr. Zia Ul Haq Abbasy, said the birds are of good quality and expressed confidence that "very soon, our chicken will be all over the Nigerian market. As you can see the birds we have here are of good quality.”


"The factory has an installed capacity of 24000 birds per day and based on my experience in 20 years of poultry processing, I don't find anything lacking in this system that Governor Ayade has installed here", Ziah, a Pakistani, further said.


The factory, he disclosed, was ready to get all the certification needed for export of its products as it has the capacity to expand to 60000 birds per day.

Following poor revenue allocation accruing to the state from the federal government, Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State has visited the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation & Fiscal Commision, Abuja 

where he made a case for better revenue allocation to the state from the federation account.


Ayade, who addressed the Commission’s committee on Fiscal Efficiency & Budget, lamented Cross River's poor financial status, which he blamed on the ceding of Bakassi Peninsular to Cameroon and the consequent transfer of the state’s 96 oil wells to Akwa-Ibom state by the federal government.


According to the governor, the twin actions of the federal government plunged Cross River state into severe financial crisis and untold hardship, leaving her helpless with the second smallest federal allocation in the country.


He maintained that the federal government was unfair to the Cross River despite being responsible for her plight and appealed to RMAFC to consider upscaling federal allocation to the state.


He used the occasion to highlight some projects embarked upon  by his administration, including the ultra modern rice seeds & seedlings multiplication complex, Cocoa processing factory, chicken processing factory, rice mill and noodles factory amongst others.


Ayade solicited the intervention of the RMAFC through the commission’s special fund for the development of natural resources, to enable the state consolidated on the gains recorded, particularly in the area of agro-industrialization.


He said the numerous industries and critical infrastructure put in place by his administration were not only for the benefit of Cross River state but the entire nation as they are meant to create hundreds of thousands of jobs for the teeming youths, help further stimulate the economy and fight hunger and poverty.


Speaking, chairman of RMAFC’s committee on Fiscal Efficiency & Budget, Adamu Shettima Yuguda pledged to ensure fairness and equity in making sound recommendations to President Muhammadu Buhari.


He regretted the harsh predicament suffered by Cross River due to low federal allocation.


Yuguda who also commended the governor for the achievements recorded in the state so far said: “Your projects are mind boggling, particularly your heavy investments in Agriculture and its value-chain. The fact that Cross River state lies in the south-south region of the country and one of the states in the Niger-Delta, one begins to wonder how such investments outside oil and gas are tenable. For this singular foresight and achievements of your administration, the commission wishes to congratulate you.”


The chairman disclosed that the Commission’s Special Fund for the development of natural resources from where the state is seeking intervention “was established to help achieve resource diversification and provide alternative source of revenue to oil, not only to the federal government but also the sub nationals.”


He was of the view that Cross River State has shown enormous commitment in seeking alternatives to oil by embracing the federal government resource diversification policy.

Amidst deepening chasm between the Northern and Southern Nigeria over the 2023 presidency and Value Added Tax, VAT, Cross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade has called for enduring camaraderie between the two halves of Nigeria.
Ayade urged political leaders from both sides to take a cue from former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar's 54-year friendship with the late Military Administrator of River State, Brigadier General Anthony Ukpo (rted).
He also stressed the need for politicians to always think Nigerian first and avoid divisive tendencies.
Ayade spoke in his office while playing host to Abubakar who was in Calabar on a condolence visit to the people of the state and the family of the late General Ukpo.
The Yala-born retired General died a forth-night ago after a brief illness.
The Cross River state governor hailed General Abubakar for finding time to visit the state saying "the lessons I have learnt from your visit is that your 54 years of friendship with General Ukpo is a true definition of friendship.
"I wonder if you would have kept that friendship if you were a politician. Friendship is best tested when one is gone. Politicians from North and South, indeed should take a cue from you.”
Further extolling the former military ruler's sterling qualities, Ayade said: "For you to come with your lovely wife and your children to honour our brother is a thing of joy and we have now seen why you remain a major source of success and a good story for this nation.
"That is why God has kept you very healthy very strong and very bright as you have always been. I want to use this opportunity to thank you for bringing democracy to Nigeria and God will bless you immensely for this"
The governor once again rued General Ukpo's demise, describing him as "a great son of the soil, a strong advocate for justice and fairness who contributed greatly to the economic development of Cross River by siting all his investments in our dear state."
Earlier, General Abubakar said he would miss the friendship and companionship of the late Ukpo.
According to him, he held the late Military Administrator in high esteem hence his presence in the state to condole with the government and people of Cross River State as well as the deceased's family.
"An honour I can do to such a long-standing friend, a very dependable one, an upright citizen, is to come and commiserate with you and the people of Cross River State and also with the family of General Ukpo.
"So, through you, Your Excellency I want to convey our condolences to all the people of Cross River State and also the people of Yala
"Your Excellency, it may interest you to know that during these 54 years of our friendship I cannot tell you the number of times Tony had visited us in Minna with his last visit being just about two months ago before the good Lord took him. So we wish the family all the comfort and succour in this time of grief and loss", the former Head of State said.
He thanked Ayade for standing with the Ukpo family in their moment of grief.

Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade, supported by the Minister for Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola on Tuesday commissioned a state-of-the-art fire fighting truck in Calabar.
Governor Ayade lauded President Muhammadu Buhari and the minister for the truck, which is one of about 200 acquired by the federal government.
Describing the acquisition and distribution of the trucks as one of the silent achievements of President Buhari, Ayade commended the minister, whom he said, “is active and performing, delivering on timelines.”
He promised to take a cue from the President and ensure that budgetary provision is made in the 2022 budget for the acquisition of fire fighting trucks for the 18 local governments in the state.
"Cross River is known as the tourism capital of Nigeria and as such safety must be our priority. So you will see that we will reflect this in our budget for 2022 to ensure we provide this kind of fire fighting truck in all the local government areas,” the governor pledged.
Ayade, who noted that emergency response systems have remained a big challenge since fires happen extemporaneously and most times on a state of emergency, disclosed that his government has already placed orders for three fire fighting trucks for the Obudu International Airport.
The minister of interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola accompanied by the controller federal fire service, and all the heads of para military agencies in the state said the deployment of the modern fire fighting truck was to further strengthen safety from unforeseen fires.
While calling on the media to support the effort of government to promote the consciousness of Nigerians in their communities to own the equipment, the former Osun State governor said the federal government has purchased 200 modern fire fighting trucks, distributed 141 and 59 still outstanding.
He pleaded with the personnel handling the trucks to handle them with care as the they do not come cheap.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)has joined other internationals to commend Governor Ben Ayade for constructing a world-class Teachers Continuous Training Institute in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Ayade had recently appointed the former Minister of Sports and Special Duties and renowned educationist, Prof. Taoheed Adedoja as the pioneer Director-General of the institute.

Speaking to newsmen at the ongoing four-day Training of Youth Volunteers on Real-Time Monitoring for the Child-Friendly Communities Initiative, held at the Amphitheater of the Teachers Continuous Training Institute in Biase, the UNICEF representative Ms. Bhawna Vajpai said the state-of-the-art facilities in the Institute rank among the best across sub-Saharan Africa while noting that the TCTI would sooner than later become a citadel for Teachers development in Africa.

Vajpai said Governor Ayade’s initiative to establish the institute as a world-class training Centre for teachers across Nigeria and beyond with modern training technology was a welcome development of a leader who saw the future.

On his part, the pioneer Director-General of the institute, Professor Taoheed Adedoja congratulated the participants in the workshop, for being the first to use some of the brand new facilities of the institute.

Adedoja informed the UNICEF Team that the Institute has as its core mandate improved teaching and learning in the State’s schools by retraining teachers across African countries to be abreast with global best practices in teachers' output.

He said one of the reasons Governor Ayade established the Institute, was to promote quality education through world-class training of teachers as the basis for more societal transformation.

Governor Ayade had during one of his visits to the institute in Biase, said:
"The establishment of the teachers continuous training institute, the first of its kind in Africa, is intended to continuously retrain teachers because the quality of students is determined by the quality of teaching and the quality of teaching is a reflection of the quality of the training.

“The institute is, therefore, set up specifically to attend to the teaching needs of West Africa, to drive home the message of quality teaching because only through quality teaching you can have quality learning which also translates to a quality outcome.”

The Teachers Continuous Training Institute, set on the undulating topography in Biase, in all its grandeur, presents itself as a bastion for the education of teachers and the enhancement of the teaching profession as attested to by UNICEF.

David Peter

Cross River State Chairman Anti-Tax Agency, Bishop Gospel Emmah Isong, burst into hostility during the week as he laments the illicit tax burdens on low-income earners by diplomats in the State.

Addressing newsmen at the CRS Anti-Tax Agency Secretariat in Calabar, The Chairman, grumbled that the members of the agency are not fatigue, tired, frighten nor Intimidated by political felonies to thwart the unlawful taxation of the local government envoys in the Councils, MDA's of Government and Political Stalwarts across the state.

He insinuated that “due to recent observation and information in the continuous operation of certain recalcitrant tax consultants purportedly represented by some government agencies. “Cross River State Anti-tax agency has intensified its collaboration with enforcement services to issues a warning and alert unsuspecting public that the tax-exemption policy of the Executive Governor, Senator Ben Ayade is still in force and remains updated despite political propaganda and mischievous manipulations.”

The Anti-tax boss maintained that with a reasonable percentage the agency has reduced illicit, unlawful, illegal, and multiple taxations in just one year and few months across the length and breadth of the 18 local government areas of Cross River State.”

Emmah affirmed that the move is part of the state’s COVID-19 palliative measure as the tax exemption policy is aimed at encouraging small and medium scale businesses, peasant farmers, commercial transport operators, food vendors, hotels with less than 50 rooms, and all those struggling to earn a living to expand and create a livelihood for their families.

The clergyman, however, instructed the public to neglect unlawful tax consultants purportedly stirred by any agencies/government while notifying the public to reach the Anti-tax agency hotlines on 07026105177 for a quick response.

Cross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade, on Monday, appealed to judicial officers in the state to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution in the administration of justice system.

Ayade made the appeal during the thanksgiving service to mark the beginning of a new legal year for the state judicial officers.
The event which held at the Hope Waddel Training Institute, Calabar, had in attendance, Deputy Governor, Prof Ivara Esu, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Akon Bassey Ikpeme, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Eteng Jones Williams amongst others.

The governor noted that the adoption of alternative dispute resolution in the justice system delivery does not only bring about speedy resolution of issues but is also cost effective.

"As different people come before you for litigations, it is your duty to know that your first option is alternative conflict resolution. The number of litigations is becoming too much. Even when clients have no case, it is lawyers that always urge them on. Divine wisdom allows you to be very ecclisiastic as you advise your innocent clients," Ayade entreated.

Judicial officers, according to the governor, require divine wisdom at all times, without which, "for me, you have no business being on the bench because the codification of laws denies you the luxury of application of jurisprudence and moral conscience. The codification of laws does not allow you to ask yourself what is fair because you have to seek a section of the relevant laws to defend your decisions. But the reality is that even in our own constitution, there are provisions for the application of jurisprudence."

Recalling the painful loss of Cross River's 76 oil wells, Ayade insisted that judges should go beyond the mere application of laws within a theoretical context by considering sociological application which seeks to reveal the historical, moral, and cultural basis of a particular legal principle.

"Who told you that the decision to strip a state that had only 76 oil wells and give the same oil wells to a state that already had thousands of oil wells was okay? Who told you that there is any provisions in the law that can defend that?
"Jurisprudence will insist that you can take rightfully from a man who has 100 yams, even though the yams rightfully belong to him, and give to his brother who has none. It is allowed in law.

"So divine wisdom comes to play because intellectual wisdom is not enough, common sense is not enough. So for us lawyers, you must have conscience, you must have morality.”
He expressed support for judicial autonomy, a reason, he explained was behind his signing of the bill granting autonomy to judiciary in the state into law.

The governor said judicial autonomy was necessary for effective dispensation of justice.