₦airaland Forum

Ayade congratulates Okonjo-Iweala on appointment as DG of World Trade Organisation


Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has congratulated former Nigeria’s Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala on her confirmation as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, WTO.


A statement signed by Professor Ayade's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Christian Ita, described the new WTO DG as the "poster girl of unassailable attainments and a record breaker who has not only shattered a glass-ceiling but has continually proved her mettle and brought honour to the country".

“We are extremely proud of one of our very best, our own dear Ngozi who has just emerged the first African, first woman and the first black Director General of WTO.

"As the Managing-General of the World Bank, Finance Minister, Foreign Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. OKonjo-Iweala brilliantly distinguished herself to the applause of her country men and women and to admiration of the world. It is not therefore, a surprise that the international community found her suitable for the exalted office of the WTO,” the statement quoted Ayade as saying.

The Cross River state governor expressed optimism that the state will benefit immensely from her new role.

"I have no doubt that her wealth of knowledge will be of huge benefit to Nigeria, particularly Cross River, and the world at large", Ayade further said.

*"Health workers in Cross River State to own houses. Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu Commend Gov. Ayade & MHWUN"*

History is been made as senior, middle and low level health workers will now own their own houses in Cross River state under the new housing scheme. This is a strong motivation and incentive for front line health workers who sacrifice their time to ensure the population remains healthy especially at a time where the workforce has been stretched by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The Digital Governor of CRS Sen Prof Ben Ayade, who was represented by the SSG Bar Tina Agbor said the Ministry of New City Development, was created with a vision to open up new cities and provide decent housing for Cross Riverians. She thanked the project financing partners Federal Mortgage Bank under the leadership of Architect Ahmed Dangiwa for their support and sponsorship which will today provide a 400 housing unit to Medical and Health Workers Union of CRS giving them a permanent home to call theirs.

"This development will go a long way to ease health workers from the stress of struggling to pay rents, send their kids to school and other challenges. The comfort of having a house of your own and the joy that comes with it is the reason Sen Ben Ayade has vowed to see this project reach completion giving every necessary support as a government."

the Health Commissioner Dr Betta Edu has during the ground breaking ceremony commended the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria CRS and His Execllency for his foresight and mega vision that has today resulted in the Health Union having an Estate.

Dr Betta Edu applauded the Mega digital Pro Health Governor Sen Prof Ben Ayade for always putting his people first. She thanked all partners especially the MD/CEO of FMBN PLC Architect Ahmed Dangiwa, the MD/CEO of AGMB Mr Ngozi Onyemuwa, the MD/CEO of Nestvier Nigeria Limited Mr Ernest Joes Obasse, etc for the support and partnership while applauding the host community Akim Akim in Odukpani LGA for bringing civilization to their people and also creating job opportunities for them.

"Today with a 400 housing unit accommodating over 400 families that will end up providing shelter to over 2400 persons, the impact will be of great benefit and immense help to our people. We strongly believe that the access road will be done as soon as possible.

"Let me also use this medium to thank the MHWUN/ NLC chairman Comrade Benedict Ukpepi and the NNAMM chairman Mrs Josphine for their giant effort to making this project a reality. This initiative started during my time as DG and today am proud that we're making positive progress. Housing scheme as a necessity should be statutory for all workers so they are motivated to work harder while having something to fall back on when they finally retire from the civil service."

The event had in attendance the, MD/CEO of AGMB Mr Ngozi Anyogu, Dr Chris Oku representing the MD/CEO of FMBN, the NLC Chairman Comrade Ben Ukpepi, NANNM chairman Comrade Josphine the DG of the CRSPHCDA Dr Janet Ekpenyong, the Permanent Secretary of the CRSMOH Barr Takon Asu, the SA on Health Dr David Ushie, the Director of Public Health Dr Iwara Iwara, traditional rulers, Nestvier staff and a host of other dignitaries with the ground breaking ceremony and site inspection led by the SSG. The health workers estate have both two and three bedroom bungalows to be completed in 24 months!

Ayade swears in new Head of Service, implores her to flush out ghost workers


Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade, Tuesday swore in a new Head of Service, Mrs. Geraldine Akpet-Ekanem, with a charge to flush out ghost workers from the system.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Ayade while performing the swearing in, noted that "today is the special day because the head of administration of the government and bearaucracy of Cross River State is being made substantive and she is no other person but a very disciplined, highly professional lady, who from her citation has distinguished herself and has been an outstanding example of what a decent woman should be."

Governor Ayade charged Akpet-Ekanem to hit the ground running, reminding her that "as head of service, one of the greatest challenges before you is to fish out ghost workers."

Disclosing the staggering figure he inherited as pension, amounting to about N340 million per month, the governor said "today that figure stands at about N740 million per month. I do not understand that increment of over N400 million especially when you juxtapose it with the fact that I met a civil service wage bill of about N1.2 billion rising to N1.6 billion and now standing at about N2.1 billion.


According to Ayade, "It is expected that when pension is increasing, salary is supposed to be reducing. But to have an increase in the wage bill in terms of salaries, increase in pension, while the employment regime just accounts for less than N 200 million is difficult to understand. It really calls for a thorough investigation.

"So I implore you to use your professional and educational background as a trained lawyer, your-self discipline from the heritage of a decent family and check the level of manipulation of our payroll system."

Continuing, Ayade told Akpet-Ekanem that "as head of service, you have a very big challenge. Imprests are not being retired by ministries, simple imprests and it's a hell of a task for them to retire it and qualify for the next month.


"Personnel audit which is supposed to be a quarterly thing is not being done. What they rather do is every month, payment structure of November is transferred into December.”


The governor promised the new HoS of his support, adding that "you have my support to discipline, you have my support to transfer and promotions. Whatever power is vested in me, I pass that power to you so that nobody will come back and say either the governor or the head of service is witch hunting him or her. I have set your terms of reference very clear."


On discipline, "as head of service, the punctuality of staff has become a big challenge including commissioners. I know your responsibility as Head of Service is to civil servants but your permanent secretaries and your directors come under you. If they come to work punctually and at the right time, the commissioners will sit up. I want to encourage you to remain very disciplined ."
On the choice of Akpet-Ekanem, Ayade said: "The discretion to choose a head of service lies solely with the governor and your emergence had many reasons, one of which was that a memo was originated to the former head of service to give me the list based on seniority and your name came first. I then asked for your personal profile, whether you have had queries, whether you have had disciplinary issues, whether you have had any issues with questions on your character, integrity and it was all absolutely perfect. You came clean and I had no option than to make a choice of you based on character, your capabilities and your experience. So your choice was not emotional. It was based on your capacity to deliver on the charge I am giving you today."


Speaking shortly after her swearing in, the new Head of Service thanked the governor for the appointment, adding that "His Excellency is a gender friendly governor for believing in me. He is indeed a leader of conscience and a man with a good heart. Your Excellency, I have heard your charge, I pledge to do all within my capacity to leave a positive mark in the civil service of Cross River State."

[url][/url]Ayade swears in Akon Ikpeme as Cross River State Chief judge, charges her on justice to all


Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade, Monday swore in Justice Akon Bassey Ikpeme as the new Chief Judge of the state.

Swearing in Justice Ikpeme at the executive council chamber, Governor's Office, Calabar, Ayade implored her to ensure justice for all who come before her.

Noting that her swearing in was ordained by God, the governor enjoined that "as a child of God and a child that God has destined for this office, I believe that God will touch your soul to ensure that no injustice is done to anybody who comes before you to seek justice. Please dispense justice, be fair and know that God fought your battles."

Ayade, who said he was thankful that the long drawn saga over the appointment of a new chief judge had finally come to an end, noted that stability in the judiciary will be guaranteed with the emergence of a substantive chief judge.

"God has chosen, by His infinite mercy, for Cross River State, not just any person to be the chief judge, but a woman. A woman with great conscience, a woman of God, a leader in the church, and a covenant child. I believe that she will put behind her all the challenges of getting here and to know that God has prevailed."

Ayade also spoke of his close relationship with Justice Ikpeme, revealing that "I have had very close relationship with her and it appears to be that she is here at the right time and she is the right person for this job."

While enjoining support for the new Chief Judge, Ayade said the executive, legislative and judicial arms of government can be sure of a robust relationship.

"In spite of the provision for the seperation of powers, as recognized by law, the intent of the seperation of powers was to consolidate the oneness of this tripod and therefore, the legislature cannot serve without the executive neither can the executive serve without the judiciary. And so there must be harmony among these three arms to create the consistency of focus to pursue the prosperity agenda set forth for the state."

Continuing, the governor said: As a maritime state bounded by very hostile international communities, the Cameroun and more recently the Amazonian people, it is obvious and clear for us as a state that we have a lot of trans-boundary matters to deal with. We have a lot of internal crisis among the indigenes, the ethnic nationalities that constitute Cross River State. The judiciary therefore, will be bedeviled with so much crisis and tension that we cannot afford a distraction.

"As God touched my heart, so did he touch the heart of everyone saddled with taking the decision in your favour and that had manifested in your swearing in today.”

In her remarks, Justice Ikpeme promised that the judiciary under her watch will collaborate with the other two arms of government to bring about good governance for the people of Cross River State.

"I want to assure His Excellency, that the judiciary under my watch will cooperate with you, and we will also cooperate with the legislature so that we can move cross River State forward."

She thanked the governor for enabling history to be created with her swearing in as Chief Judge of the state.

"God uses men to fulfill His purpose on earth, Your Excellency, from the depth of my heart I want to tell you thank you, I thank you for making this day a reality

Emil inyang, Iyadim Iyadim

Powerful PDP group in Cross River writes Uche Secondus, warns of dangers of disrespecting Gov Ayade as leader of party


A powerful lobby group within the Cross River State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), 7-Alive, has written an open letter to the National Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus, demanding that Governor Ben Ayade be accorded respect as leader of the party in the state.


The group draws membership from the seven local government areas that make up the southern senatorial district of the state.

The local governments are Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Calabar south, Calabar Municipal, Biase, Odukpani and Bakassi.

In a statement issued Friday and signed by prominent members of the party, including a former state chairman, Ntufam John Achot Okon, 7-Alive said it “will not longer sit and watch the systematic devaluation of Prof Ben Ayade's influence and leadership in the party.


“We have brought this unhealthy development in PDP to you in search of Justice, equity and fair play. We as loyal members of the party had watched in hope believing that the party and it's internal disagreement ought to be handled outside the public theatre.


“Unfortunately, we have now realised that we waited and observed the deteriorating development in the party especially as it affects Cross River State chapter of the party


“We therefore appeal to the NWC of our great party to do the right thing and bring justice to the party in Cross River State.


“Our concern or worries is mostly in the conflicting way of handling Ward and local government congresses of the party in the state which has gone on for far too long.


“From May 1999 to May 2007 when His Excellency Mr Donald Duke was Governor under the esteemed umbrella of the PDP, all through his tenures, the administrative running, the party structure, leadership, instructions and directives on what to do and how to manage the party had always centred around the Governor.


“Same norms and traditions were transmitted to His Excellency, Sen Liyel Imoke as the then Governor of Cross River State from May 2007 through May 2015 and sustained by all Party faithfuls owing to the fact it is and has become a norm generally accepted not just in Cross River but in all other States.


“However, we have observed the case of His Excellency,Prof. Ben Ayade, has not received the same cooperation and respect from the NWC thereby putting the party in utter confusion lack of purpose and direction.


“It is no longer a secret that some members of the National Assembly all of whose return to the green and red Chambers was facilitated by the Governor have now formed an opposition wing in Abuja with the aim of conspiring to seize the structures of the party in the state.


“The party's constitutional provisions restrains members from going to court without first exhausting the inbuilt conflict resolution mechanism.


“We cannot belabor the party even after setting up the Senator Saraki committee to look into the matter and even after submission of the report, we are yet to know the findings and recommendations of that highly respectable committee.”


It said in the light of current reality and in recognition of “the strength of the governor and his structures across the 18 Local government areas in the state,” “we make bold to caution the handlers of the party that we are not only in full support of the Governor but are ready to follow his decisions in seeking redress in the face of intolerable and unnecessary machinations and aggressions towards him and the party in the state.


“However, as we move towards the year 2023 it is important we reflect on the circumstances around us as an opposition party, while we pray for unity respect for leadership and above all submit ourselves to the basic principles of democracy which is respecting the voice of the majority we will resist any further attempt to disrespect the authority of the Governor His Excellency Prof Ben Ayade as leader of the party in the state.”

*World Cancer Day: Cross River State to start mandatory Cancer screening in communities, General Hospitals and PHCs*

4th February every year is marked as the world Cancer Day and the theme for this year is “ I can and I will”. The Commissioner For Health Dr Betta Edu unveiled the state policy direction for Cancer control when the Calabar Cancer Registry council paid her a visit at the state ministry health on the world cancer day ahead of virtual event for 10th of February 2021.

Dr Edu said the Cross River State Government will work with the team at cancer registry to build capacity of Health workers at Primary and secondary levels to create awareness at grassroots and also detect early signs of cancer when the present in whatever form. She called for operational research at community level that will inform policy on cancer as well as massive screening in communities and treatment of cases found as part of the cancer control policy Implementation In the state.
Dr Edu stated that even though the State Health insurance scheme is unable to cover for the full cancer treatment, it will invest in cancer prevention through awareness creation, vaccines and operational research as well as most investigations for diagnosed patients. She further noted that the massive screening for breast cancer in October partnering with Mediatrix Development Foundation yielded over 45 cases from communities that are undergoing treatment presently. early detection will save more lives.

The Chairman of the Cancer Registry Prof Imabong Ekanem who led the team on behave of the UCTH cancer Advisory Board and the Calabar Cancer Registry congratulated the Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu on her assumption of office noting that her Exploit in the health sector has been exceptional and undeniable. She said there is great need to work with the state Government to reduce mortality associated with cancer. She noted that the cancer registry is at small scale due to inability of the ministry to provide the political will to support and expand their scope. She noted that the Cancer Registry whose duty includes research, data gathering, advocacy visit, awareness creation, trainings and cancer management has carried out a research on cancer cases as well as mortality from 2009 to 2013 in calabar. This she presented to the Commissioner to guide Government policies.

The team promised to work with Government to set up mandatory cancer screening at the PHCs and General hospital. The team will also support operational researches immediately. Dr Macus Enyama also advocated for increase awareness using TV and radio programs to educate the public on the need for cancer patients to seek care at the hospital rather than at religious houses or traditional homes which has led to increase mortality. Dr Godwin Egbuge said poverty, life style modifications and infections played key roles in cancer causation. Asking people to avoid risk factors like smoking, alcohol, unprotected Sec with multiple partners amongst other things.
Others who spoke were the SA health to Governor Dr David Ushie who is a Pathologist and cancer specialist, the Perm Sec Ministry of health Bar Takon, the director of public health Dr Iwara and Mrs Sally Eyim who represented the DG CRSPHCDA

*Health News: NCDC to restart CRS COVID-19 Reference Lab at IDH In 48 hours following Governor Ayade’s intervention"*

Gov Ayade has deployed staff, rebuilt and furnished the Reference Laboratory while NCDC provided New PCR machine and some equipment/ medical consumables needed! Now members of the public can go there to be tested free of charge on Mondays to Fridays!

The State's COVID-19 response suffered some setbacks following the Vandalisation and Looting of the Reference COVID-19 testing Laboratory at Dr Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital (IDH) during the ENDSARS protest. Following the second wave of COVID-19 and the number of cases that are rising the Governor ordered for immediate renovations and restarting of the Laboratory to support surveillance and massive testing in the state.

Presently, massive renovation by the State Government is in progress and completed in some sections, electricity and water destroyed, have been restored to the building; while the Nigeria Center for Disease control (NCDC) whose team have already arrived the state yesterday are supporting the Laboratory with a PCR machine and other equipments needed to get the place functional again. The NCDC have also sent in bio technical engineers and a technical team to restart the Laboratory.

The NCDC team sent by Dr Chikwe DG NCDC has assured the State Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu during a courtesy visit in her office that all is set for the lab to start receiving COVID-19 samples for testing again. Mr Tunde Jegede the team lead praised the State Governor, the Government and the Commissioner in particular for the efforts put into curtailing the spread of this virus. "We've been sent down here from the National to support the State in setting up her lab amidst other challenges bothering the COVID-19 pandemic which we will address.

Responding, the State Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu welcomed and appreciated Dr Chikwe the DG of NCDC for keeping to his words to support the state, while welcoming the NCDC team and assuring them of a strong synergy and working relationship to ensure that both partners achieve a positive results. Our target is to get 450 persons per Local government tested within the next one month!

we have sent more hands to the EOC to ensure we don't lack the manpower in that area, the EOC team will meet twice a week especially now that the lab is restarted, while strengthening surveillance in the field. The risk communication pillar will need a lot of support bearing in mind the need for them to sensitize the public on the new vaccines. Other pertinent issues are around the Isolation centers that needs to be set up as soon as possible to accommodate larger numbers.

The DG of the CRSPHCDA Dr Janet Ekpenyong who was also part of the visit enumerated the areas the State has recorded tremendous great results as well as areas that needs urgent attention and support. She further explained the State's head start in tackling COVID-19 that has today made the fight an easy going one even though most health workers are fatigued and will need incentives , massive support and attention.

In a vote of thanks, the Ministry's Permanent Secretary Barr Takon Asu Takon on behalf of the CRSMOH thanked the NCDC and WHO team for coming as he assured them of not only a good working relationship but also a safe and comfortable stay in the State while appealing for more support from the Federal government as well as partners. In the meeting with the Commissioner was the WHO team led by Mrs Chisom Emeka state coordinator, NCDC Team members, Director Public Heath Dr Iwara Iwara, SA to the Governor on health Dr Ushie, and State epidemiologist Pst Inyang Ekpenyong.

*C'River State Ministry of Health Commends University of Calabar for inaugurating COVID-19 Taskforce Team; supports With COVID-19 Items.*

In line with the advise of the Chairman of the Nigeria Commissioners for Health Forum Dr Betta Edu on the need for all Tertiary Institutions in the country to set up a COVID-19 Taskforce team in their various Universities, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar Prof Florence Obi has blazed the trail by inaugurating the varsity's taskforce team to ensure that the COVID-19 laid down rules/procedures are adhered to by returning students and staff.

In a courtesy visit led by the Chairman of the team Dr Akaba Kingsley to the Honorable Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu, the team spelt out their assigned responsibilities to the Commissioner while soliciting for the State Government's support to enable them effectively handle the large number of Students and staff that will be returning back to School by February 5th.

Speaking during the visit, the Health Commissioner who also doubles as the CRS COVID-19 Taskforce Chairman once again congratulated the chairman of the taskforce and his members noting that their appointment is a clear testament of their capacity, passion and commitment to responsibility given even in time past, while commending the Vice Chancellor Prof Florence Obi for always being exceptionally proactive in her duties. The Commissioner also congratulated her once again on her well deserved appointment as the first Female Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar.

"A couple of weeks ago I advised on the need to decentralize the COVID-19 response into all Universities, with universities setting up their own taskforce but linking same to the state taskforce for better coordination and support am proud that my own State has set the ball rolling.

"Due to the large number of staff and Students that will be returning back to School, it is of great importance that screening areas be created at every point of entry in and out of the school, where everyone would be screened using infrared thermometers. Everyone going through must use their face mask, hand washing facilities be provided at strategic locations within the school premises for regular hand washing, sub teams can be created in all facilities to ensure monitoring and enforcement of NO MASK NO MOVEMENT within the school. A holding area should be created at the Medical center for emergency cases before the invitation of the State Response Team, compulsory use of facemasks by all Staff and Students, Hand Sanitizers in all Offices, Sensitization Materials pasted at strategic locations to awaken student's consciousness. All these will prevent COVID-19 casualties

Dr Edu on behalf of the State Government supported the team with PPEs, N95 facemasks, Gloves, Medijet Face Masks, Hand Washing liquid Soap, Face Shield, isolation Gowns, and a list of other very important COVID-19 prevention items while calling on the School to adopt the Antigen Rapid Testing before using PCR test for further confirmation due to the high number of staff and Students in the Institution. She solicited with the University management to assign the team with a Vehicle to ease their job while calling on other Universities to emulate the University of Calabar.

Students who fails to abide on the COVID-19 laid down procedures should be made to face the sanctions of the Taskforce Committee as stated by the Chairman Dr Akaba who was accompanied by Mr Omang Robert Secretary, Dr Odey Paul Member, Mr Patrick Ogar Member and Mr George Odok the Committee Media Personnel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaQg-KuPqCA

*SECOND WAVE OF COVID-19: Cross River Ministry Of Health Distributes PPEs and other COVID-19 items to over 4000 Frontline Health Workers.*

As the number of COVID-19 cases continue to build there is an urgent need to protect health workers that have been presently over stretched. The Cross River State COVID-19 Taskforce Chairman made this known at the Ministry head quarters pointing out the need to reequip our frontline health workers with COVID-19 prevention materials as safety and preventive measures must first begin with them since they are more exposed to this danger in the course of discharging their duties.

"The second wave of COVID-19 has come, with the population having COVID-19 Fatigue, people finding it difficult to carry out COVID-19 protocol leading to community spread. for our frontline health workers who are always on the forefront of this fight to continue to be safe, we must take the responsibility of not only protecting them but coming all out as a government to support them with all the necessary COVID-19 prevention equipments ranging from PPEs, Hand Sanitizers, Facemasks, Latex Gloves, Isolation Gowns, Hamzel suits, Face shield, Googles, Heavy duty boots, Infrared thermometers, Body bags, Liquid hand wash, Boots, Scrubs, etcdonning/doffing practicals, COVID-19 Protocol manuals and any other important information about this virus that can be of help to them to keep them safe.

This COVID-19 protective/prevention equipments have been distributed to all of our Primary and Secondary facilities which should cover for almost 5000 health workers across board.

Dr Betta Edu carefully enumerated the progress made in the State response which has today brought innovation even to the National response and she also went on to outline some of the setbacks as a result of the EndSARS Protest which affected the reference Lab and 100 bed Isolation center leaving the State with only 14 bed space (4 in UCTH and 10 at GH Ogoja). While we await a positive and immediate response from the PTF, it is pertinent that we support and protect our frontline health workers by providing this important COVID-19 protective equipments as they already have been over stretched by the pandemic, yet they keep doing their best to give the State the best of health care services.

Dr Janet Ekpeyong DG Primary Health Care Development Agency who was on hand to receive the PPEs with some Primary Health Care Directors from the Local Government areas. She thanked the Cross River state COVID-19 Taskforce respond team for always being proactive. She noted that the front line health workers have started sensitization on the COVID-19 vaccines dispelling rumors around it. She promised to continue motivating the health workers at the primary health level.

The Director Medical Services and Medical superintendents were also on hand to receive for secondary facilities commending the state response for always prioritizing health workers in the state.

CRSG,SIGNS MOU WITH DANTATA FOODS AND ALLIED PRODUCT LTD.

The Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade, today, 25th of January, 2021,signed a Memorandum Of Understanding with the Dantata Foods and Allied products Limited with a view to expanding her agro -industrialisation base and create employment through Agricultural value chain

Speaking at the event, which held at the Ministry of Commerce, Prof. Eyo Ita House, Calabar, the Commissioner for Commerce, Pst. Mrs.RoseMary Archibong, who signed on behalf of the Executive Governor, posited that the industrialisation drive of the Governor Ayade -led Administration continues to receive visibility as more investors are keying into the numerous opportunities in the State.

She emphasised that the leadership clairvoyance of Governor Ben Ayade, is taking the State back to Agriculture -based prosperity and expressed deep appreciation to the Chairman of Dantata Foods, Alhaji Tajudeen Dantata and his team for identifying with the State.

The Commissioner, noted that with the reputation of the Dantata dynasty in the business world, the State was confident that they will work with the urgency and importance to deliver on their agreement.

She stated that the Dantata Foods, was interested in setting up a Ginnery and other factories at the Ayade Industrial Park as well as being allocated five thousand hectares of land for cultivation of groundnut, cotton; maize; and soybeans. She called on other investors to avail themselves of the enormous business opportunities and secured environment made possible by the Ayade-led Administration.

Earlier, the Head, Strategic Corporate Communication, Dantata Foods and Allied Products,Alhaji Sanusi Bature, who represented the Chairman, expressed delight over the prompt approvals by the Governor whom he, described as a "talk and work"Governor. He maintained that the Agro-allied opportunities in the State, drew the Company's interest and they, began a walk last year.

Mr. Bature said though the process was delayed by the COVID -19 pandemic but gladly culminating in the signing of MOU. He looked forward to a robust lasting partnership between their company in Kano State and Cross River State.

Witnessing the signing, was the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industries while the Attorney General /Commissioner for Agriculture the Calabar Chamber of Commerce, Industry Mines and Agriculture, were ably represented as well as Zenith Bank and Bright Flow Logistics.

CRSG,SIGNS MOU WITH DANTATA FOODS AND ALLIED PRODUCT LTD.

The Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade, today, 25th of January, 2021,signed a Memorandum Of Understanding with the Dantata Foods and Allied products Limited with a view to expanding her agro -industrialisation base and create employment through Agricultural value chain

Speaking at the event, which held at the Ministry of Commerce, Prof. Eyo Ita House, Calabar, the Commissioner for Commerce, Pst. Mrs.RoseMary Archibong, who signed on behalf of the Executive Governor, posited that the industrialisation drive of the Governor Ayade -led Administration continues to receive visibility as more investors are keying into the numerous opportunities in the State.

She emphasised that the leadership clairvoyance of Governor Ben Ayade, is taking the State back to Agriculture -based prosperity and expressed deep appreciation to the Chairman of Dantata Foods, Alhaji Tajudeen Dantata and his team for identifying with the State.

The Commissioner, noted that with the reputation of the Dantata dynasty in the business world, the State was confident that they will work with the urgency and importance to deliver on their agreement.

She stated that the Dantata Foods, was interested in setting up a Ginnery and other factories at the Ayade Industrial Park as well as being allocated five thousand hectares of land for cultivation of groundnut, cotton; maize; and soybeans. She called on other investors to avail themselves of the enormous business opportunities and secured environment made possible by the Ayade-led Administration.

Earlier, the Head, Strategic Corporate Communication, Dantata Foods and Allied Products,Alhaji Sanusi Bature, who represented the Chairman, expressed delight over the prompt approvals by the Governor whom he, described as a "talk and work"Governor. He maintained that the Agro-allied opportunities in the State, drew the Company's interest and they, began a walk last year.

Mr. Bature said though the process was delayed by the COVID -19 pandemic but gladly culminating in the signing of MOU. He looked forward to a robust lasting partnership between their company in Kano State and Cross River State.

Witnessing the signing, was the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industries while the Attorney General /Commissioner for Agriculture the Calabar Chamber of Commerce, Industry Mines and Agriculture, were ably represented as well as Zenith Bank and Bright Flow Logistics.

OOzz:
Offiong187, The road u show above is a federal govt project. Stop lying to Nigerians

This one is not normal oh. �. Which federal government project? If you don't know what to say go and sleep

From 'Ayade's Dust', Critics Recant as 148km Dual Carriage Highway Becomes Reality in C'River North

Motorists plying the newly constructed 148km Mfum-Okpoma-Bekwara-Obudu-Obaliku dual carriage highway in northern Cross River, say their socio- economic situation has immensely improved following the construction of the road by Governor Ben Ayade.

The road cuts across the five local government areas of Cross River North Senatorial District.

Described as the most ambitious road project undertaken by any state government in the history of Nigeria given its length, about 120 kilometers have been completely asphalted with work ongoing on the remaining portions of the road.

Some of the motorists disclosed that they were among cynics who doubted the ability of Governor Ayade to deliver the road project.

One of them, Ogar Simon, an Okada rider, is now full of apologies for the governor.

"We doubted the initial intentions of the governor for the road. We were among those that termed the road "Ayade dust" but right now we know better because the governor has delivered road, he has fulfilled his promise. He has brought a lot of smiles to our faces, we no longer have to buy tyres every now and then due to bad roads.

"I would like to apologise to our dear Governor for doubting his noble intentions for this road. He has done very well", Simon said.

Also Speaking, a farmer, Mr Emmanuel Amuchi noted that the road has added value to farm produce as movement of the produce from the farms to the markets is now very easy.

"We are very excited and happy about this road construction here and we thank God for giving us a Governor like Ayade, who listened to the cries of the common man and gave us this road.

“Before now we found it very difficult to move our goods from the farms to the markets, but now we do so with relative ease,” Mr Amuchi enthused.

For Nyaya Sunday Andor, a bus driver, only apologies to Ayade would suffice.

"You cannot make an omelet without breaking an egg, every good thing needs patience and we are enjoying the result of that patience today.

“I therefore, hereby tender my unreserved apology to our hardworking governor for my initial misgivings about this road construction.”

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner for Information, Comrade Asu Okang has explained that the 148 kilometer road will make the iconic Obudu Mountain Resort Ranch resort more viable as it provides shorter and motorable access to the facility.

"The importance of the road to the ranch cannot be over emphasized as the ranch is the core tourism component of our state.

"The challenge of driving on bad road for several hours to get to the ranch discourages a lot of fun seekers and with the advent of this road which shortens the journey. Now we expect a whole lot more patronage for the ranch", Okang said.

You maybe right, in any case you are wrong.

See your mouth like lies

*C'River State Health Commissioner Storms Remote Villages to rescue Severely malnourished Children*

“....Aftermath Of Covid-19”
CRSG Begins Rescue Of Malnourished Children In Remote Communities.....

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic which resulted in a complete lockdown of the entire Country/World, the aftermath effect is beginning to tell on lives and livelihoods as most families due to poverty, hunger and lack of resources are unable to feed themselves properly or seek health care thereby resulting in more severe forms of Malnutrition in communities. The Commissioner for health Dr Betta Edu has started going to remote communities with the Nutrition Taskforce in continuation of the Maternal, Newborn and Children Health (MNCH) week to search for these severely malnourished children as part of the monitoring/ surveillance process as our children remain a priority to the Government.

In a bid to address this issue, of severe malnutrition in remote communities the Cross River state Government has launched a nutrition monitoring Taskforce headed by the the State Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu whose function is to go round for monitoring and surveillance where they can identify affected children in communities. “We are faced with an uncommon situation in the State and as such the Government of Sen Prof Ben Ayade will leave no stone unturned until such children are located and given proper medical treatment and attention”.

The state Government is also working on creating more job opportunities for young people to get employed. In the words of the Governor “ we will not only protect lives during this COVID-19 Pandemic, but we must deliberately work to protect Livelihood”

Today we've discovered over five cases of Marasmus and we'll keep searching for more while attending to these ones. You can play a great role by calling the states attention to such children. This is a wake up call for the Our Development partners working in the Child and Nutritional Health space to do more in support of Government

"Marasmus is a form of malnutrition that occurs when there's a low intake of nutrients and energy thereby resulting in the child losing weight, fat and muscles. As a State we can't remember when last we had such cases because our people readily have access to foods containing Carbohydrates and protein etc.

These kids Sylvester Offiong and Emmanuel Sunday Akpan born on November 2018 and February 2019 respectively never had any medical attention nor care due to lack of finances as ascertained by both Mothers. The Ayade Care Insurance Scheme which is more like a social scheme will help these group of families access medical care free of charge.

We also had Shedrack Joseph and Isaac Joseph who are also suffering from marasmic- Kwashiorkor they too have been taken to General Hospital Calabar for proper medical care/attention without any charges and to sustain this, all the affected Mothers will be provided with a running business to enable them feed their children and live a comfortable life after treatment at GHC is concluded. As a Government we'll not allow our children to die as a result of Malnutrition so the search for this precious ones continues.

On their part, the Mothers of the Children Miss Imabong Sunday and Esther Offiong who spoke on behalf of others said they are all unemployed Mothers. They thanked the State Governor Sen Prof Ben Ayade and the Health Commissioner Dr Betta Edu for coming to their rescue as all hope was lost.

The state government is calling on the Federal Government and Development partners to support State with more useful health interventions and basic resources targeted at these health challenges in communities especially as the effect of the COVID-19 lockdown is beginning to tell on our people and a lot of persons need help. Dr Edu supported all families with bags of rice, toiletries and cash donations as the search continues.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3HQhlq-j7Y

Him de owe him papa? But this guy no for bad na. He is well read.

Lol the head shine Sha

*COMMISSIONER FOR FINANCE HARPS ON MAKING CROSS RIVER BETTER*
*
By Florence Kekong
Information Officer, MOI/Editor, MOFINEWS


Cross River Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Asuquo Ekpenyoung Jr., has charged Staff of the Ministry to look for new opportunities to put up their best for a better Cross River.

In a motivational meeting acknowledging kick-off of actual official duties in the new year, Ekpenyong said that the year 2020 has made way for new accomplishments and as such, was wishing all Staff a happy new year, with the hope that they would bring out their best to bear.

"The Ministry of Finance is one of the most important Ministries in government, be it at federal or State level, so we must all put up serious actions in terms of productivity, punctuality, decent dressing and maintain good hygiene and sanitation, if we must make reasonable impact that goes in line with the innovative strategies of Sir Ben Ayade ", he said.

The Commissioner who created opportunity for all Staff to interact and share their thoughts and views together, also encouraged them to put forth challenges that they have encountered so far in their various departments, with a view to proferring possible and long-term solutions to that effect.

" We must work together as a Team to create an enabling environment for everyone to work in comfort and with great pleasure, that is why we must hold dearly, the affairs of the Ministry to our hearts" , he advised.

In his remarks, Permanent Secretary of the the Ministry, Mr. Ikang, Gabriel (ACA), noted that the meeting was very apt as this is the time to plan for the year, ahead, even as he prayed for God to grant the Commissioner and Staff, wisdom to perform their duties deligently.
Earlier, Director of Administration, Barr. Ben T. Olom, had welcomed the Commissioner and Staff, applauding the Commissioner for making it possible for the Ministry to forge ahead, despite some of the administrative challenges that the Ministry had encountered along the way.

No be only bus for each of them. Them go open transport company for them so that you go happy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0adBgChErQ0

Remembrance Day: Ayade lauds sacrifices of ex servicemen, says they deserve care, protection


Cross River state governor, Sir Ben Ayade Friday extolled the sacrifices of ex- service men whom he said risked their lives to keep Nigeria one.

Speaking at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day parade held at the Millennium Park, Calabar, Ayade, flanked by his Deputy, Professor Iwara Esu and other top government functionaries, lamented the pitiable condition of the ex-service men, saying Nigeria has the responsibility to take care of them and protect them.

The governor then announced a donation of a brand new bus to them to ease their logistics problem.

"You fought for the sustenance of the oness of this nation. You fought to keep us alive, therefore, we have the duty and responsibility to protect you and take care of you. Of course, one good turn deserves another.

“I understand your challenges, I understand your situation. I therefore, hereby authorise the purchase of a brand new bus for all of you, the ex- service men", he said.

On his part, Chairman of Cross River state chapter of the Nigerian Legion, Captain Joseph Offiong described the 2021 Armed Forces Remembrance Day as unique "because we have our governor here with us and he has made us proud".

He commended Ayade for donating a bus to the Legion and promised judicious use of it.

Earlier, the governor joined service commanders in the state and widows of fallen soldiers to lay wreaths at the tomb of the unknown soldier at the park.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrkJKJwBEpE

Operation Akpakwu: Taxi Union, Calabar residents hail security outfit, commend Ayade 


Residents of Calabar, the Cross River state capital, have commended the efforts of Operation Akpakwu in tackling the incidence of kidnapping and criminality in the city.


They also lauded Governor Ben Ayade for setting up the crime busting outfit, noting that, "that singular move has restored calm in the state."


Operation Akpakwu, a security outfit manned by personnel drawn from the army, airforce, navy, civil defence and police was recently launched by Governor Ayade with the mandate to rid the state, especially Calabar, of kidnappers and other criminals. 


Speaking in Calabar, state chairman of Unified Commercial Taxi and Bus Drivers Association, Pastor Thomas Effiong Okon, showered praises on Ayade and heads of security agencies in the state for securing lives and property of the people


"I am a Calabar South resident and that was the hub of almost all the crisis but for the past days, we have had relative peace as there has been no incidence of kidnapping or hijack of some sorts. So operation Akpakwu has done a lot. You know security is a thing that needs constant improvement but so far they have done a lot. For me, they have met atleast 80% of our security expectations in the state," Pastor Okon said. 


Also Speaking, another resident,  Comrade Ekpenyong Akiba was full of praises for Ayade for "bringing Operation Akpakwu to secure lives and property in calabar.


"The efforts of Operation Akpakwu have been fantastic and they have done marvelously well, we have seen the improvement in security in the state and the spate of kidnapping has reduced to the barest minimum. We can now sleep with our eyes closed.


"I thank our governor for bringing Operation Akpakwu to secure lives and property in Calabar. Thank you, Ayade, you have done well," he said.


Continuing, Ekpenyong stated that "about three to four months ago, I can tell you that cultists and kidnappers were having a swell time, day and night on my street, but as I speak to you, they have all been arrested. So I really appreciate the efforts of his Excellency and the operation Akpakwu team for keeping Calabar safe."


Meanwhile, the state Security Adviser South, Mr Leo Nyambe has called on Cross Riverians to support Operation Akpakwu by giving out vital and timely information to security agencies. 


According to him, "all we ask for is the cooperation of the public by giving us timely information. If you see something, say something and Akpakwu will be at your door post . We have all our phone numbers on Social media and on radio as well,  so just put a call across to any of those numbers if you see a suspicious movement around your area and Operation Akpakwu will come to your rescue."


While commending Governor Ayade for granting the team all the logistics  and technological support needed to carry out the task of riding Calabar of hoodlums and undesirable elements, Nyambe assured residents of a peaceful 2021 as "we are poised to return Calabar to the serenity and tranquility it was known for."

*The Fight Against Tuberculosis in Cross River Goes Digital & Mobile; As Gov Ben Ayade Launches Wellness On Wheels Truck."*

*Cross River TB Program response ranked top performing in 2020 National assessment- National TB program & KNCV*


TB response and indeed several other diseases challenging the health sector suffered huge set back in Year 2020 as attention was concentrated on COVID-19 response. This was not the case in Cross River state, as the state Ministry of Health was able to sustain and even improve on TB response, as well as other disease responses reducing mortality associated with those diseases while tackling COVID-19 appropriately. The government of Sen Prof Ben Ayade rose up to the challenge working with its partners to tackle this TB disease in the State resulting in Cross River State ranking the 2nd best performing State in Tuberculosis activities in Nigeria for year 2020.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease that mainly affects your lungs, the bacteria that cause tuberculosis are spread from one person to another through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes. With over 1.4m people dying of TB as at 2019,
In a bit to step up the fight against TB in the State, the State Governor Sen Prof Ben Ayade Represented by the Honorable Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu has today launched the *Wellness on Wheels (WOW)* an innovation supported by USAID through KNCV in the diagnosis of Tuberculosis. The Truck which contains an X-ray Machine with CAT system which can give you a presumptive case in 3 mins, also have GeneXpert machines that can confirm diagnosis in 2hrs.

Speaking during the launching exercise, the Health Commissioner Dr Betta Edu thanked the State Governor Sen Prof Ben Ayade for his tireless efforts in supporting the health sector while assuring cross riverians of more positive results in strengthening the health care deliver system. "As a result of the unrelenting support of Governor Ben Ayade, our State became the 2nd best in Nigeria in TB activities and i assure you that we won't relent as TB case finding/management will be stepped up, we want to be number 1. By this innovation TB diagnosis and treatment will be brought to our door steps even in rural communities. People don't need to go to the hospitals/laboratories to get tested we will test you in your community and village.

"Our TB testing and treatment has now gone on Wheels and for the next 6months free testing and treatment is available to all. From Calabar municipality the truck is headed to rural communities in Boki LGA; since Boki has the highest burden/ number of positive TB Cases in CRS. “I call on Cross Riverians in the hinterlands, hard to reach areas and villages to all come out and benefit from this digital innovation. Cross River state thank USAID, the Country Director of KNCV Dr Betrand Odume and his entire team for the support."

The DG of the CRSPHCDA Dr Janet Ekpenyong expressed her excitement over the new innovation which will help facilitate the TB fight in the State. Our Primary Health workers will mobiles the communities to benefit. Dr Betrand Odume the KNCV Country Director applauded the State for not relenting in the fight against TB while thanking the State Government and the Health Ministry for an excellent performance last year and for remaining steadfast, focused in giving cross riverians a more improved health care system.

Highlight of the event was the launching of the Wellness on Wheels Truck by Dr Betta Edu followed by an inspection of the Truck's facilities as the head of the Hausa/Fulani community which was the host community Alh Salisu Abba Lawal charged all the Muslim people residing in Bogobri to come all out and grab this opportunity to get tested while thanking Sen Prof Ben Ayade and Dr Betta Edu for always carrying Hausa communities along in all health interventions. 532 persons got tested at the event.

With the Commissioner for Health during the event was Dr Offor, the State Director for TB, Dr Eze in charge of the Wellness and Wheels, Dr Austin Ihesie the Snr Program Manager of TB South South Zone and a host of other dignitaries.

*Cross River State Ministry of Health Launch “Every New Born Action Plan”; Procure Digital incubators & Phototherapy machines For General Hospitals in the state*

..*...The rebirth of quality healthcare to reduce newborn mortality in Cross River State *

One of the biggest issues in the Nigerian Health sector is the alarmingly high maternal and new born mortality rate, With Nigeria having the worse indices in sub-Saharan Africa. The picture in many states of the Federation is same. However, Cross River state has decided to take the bull by the horn to reduce these preventable deaths there by deploying useful bottom-up approach to saving lives. This Was the clear message from the Honorable Commissioner for Health Dr Betta Edu as she launched the “Every newborn action Plan” aimed at reducing newborn mortality in the state.

Dr Edu said the goal is to strategically reduce by 50% within the next year the number of newborn death in the state. “ like Governor Ben Ayade’s proactive leadership style is, we will not just launch a policy and go to sleep, or leave the books on the shelve, we will match words with actions, that is why we have purchased and handed over several incubators and phototherapy Machines to General hospitals in the state. Prior to this time our General Hospitals didn’t have functional incubators that can be used in the management of prematured babies, most didn’t have phototherapy machines which led to the death of many of these premature babies and babies suffering from neonatal Jaundice; further increasing the Newborn Mortality figures. We are happy that we are able to improve on quality of care and bring solutions to the system. Our health workers will be trained on Newborn Care as we work together to improve child survival rate in the state. Furthermore, The enrollment of Cross Riverians and implementation of the state Health Insurance Scheme will further protect newborns as pregnant women and under fives will be covered for free under the scheme.

The DG PHCDA Dr Janet Ekpeyong also gave strong commitment to full implementation of the Newborn Action plan in the state. Noting that the Health workers at Primary level will be mobilized and trained to improve on newborn care, while referring patients that might need more specialized care like premature or jaundiced babies to the General Hospital. In the same vein, Dr Ushie SA Health and the Special assistant on health promised to work assiduously with the ministry to achieve set targets.

The policy plan which has contributions and review by Prof Mabel Ekott, Chairman of SOGON CRS, Dr Emmanuel Adams, CRS Pediatric committee, congratulated the state for taking the first step in the right direction which is to get a plan! The however called on the state to speed up full implementation of this great plan to save lives of newborns in the state.

The Medical Superintendent of the General Hospital Calabar Dr Kumah thanked the state for the speedy transformation happening in the health sector. He said in addition to the upgrade happening across several General Hospitals in the state, the state has procured equipment that will improve the quality of care offered. “ with the environments the State Ministry of Health are creating, health workers are motivated to do better” He noted that the hospital didn’t have a functional Incubator before now, this will change the game for us in newborn care across the General hospitals”

Others who contributed were UNICEF, World Health Organizations, Bar. Takon Asu, PS, SMOH, Chairman of Private Hospital Practitioners, IPPS; Dr Joseph Bassey, Dr Iwara Iwara, PHC Directors, pediatricians and other specialists; promising their total support to build a more resilient health system in the state.

Your recruitment fraudulent, Cross River Attorney General tells protesting fake magistrates
. Threatens law suit


Protesting Cross River State magistrates on Wednesday acknowledged that they were illegally recruited into the state's judiciary.

In a meeting with the Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice, Tanko Ashang, the magistrates, represented by their leaders , pleaded passionately with Governor Ben Ayade to overlook every irregularity that had existed and regularize their employments.

They noted that they were merely victims of the irregularities and appealed to the governor to exhibit a fatherly disposition towards them.

Earlier, the Attorney reminded the magistrates that their employment was irregular as it did not have the necessary approvals required for the engagement of any officer into the public service of Cross River State.

He then challenged them to bring forward any approvals that were obtained if any prior to their engagement or take the government to court if they strongly feel they have a right.

Ashang insisted that as lawyers, it was wrong for the magistrates to blackmail government through public protest in other to coerce it into endorsing illegality.

"As a member of the Judicial Service Commission I am aware of the many petitions that trailed that purported employment and the investigations that revealed that some of you do not possess the necessary certification to have been so employed in the first place", Ashang told them.

Describing the protests embarked upon by the magistrates as blackmail, he wondered why they did not state the correct position to the public but rather choose to whip public sentiments on the matter.

Ashang, however assured the magistrates that he was going to work together with the JSC to regularize all the irregularities that existed while hoping that governor Ayade will exercise his usual deep humanity and give approval to regularize their employment in "the same way he recently regularized the employment of over 2500 staff that were smuggled into the payroll by improper means.”

*Cross River State Ministry of Finance achieves $20.4million grants under the World Bank States Fiscal Transparency Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) Programme*

Cross River State has achieved a total sum of Twenty million, four hundred thousand US Dollars ($20.4M) as a result of scoring 100 per cent for all Fiscal, Transparency and Accountability indicators of the World Bank in the 2020 Fiscal Year.
This was earned after a detailed annual performance assessment of all 36 Nigerian states under the States' Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) programme.
This grant achievement places Cross River State at the top among the 36 states in the Federation and sets a national record for the fiscal year.

SFTAS is a World Bank funded competitive programme of the federal government which rewards states for meeting specifically set indicators for improved fiscal transparency, accountability and sustainability. The Cross River State SFTAS Steering committee is chaired by the State’s Ministry for Finance and was responsible for the implementation of the SFTAS program in the state over the course of the year.

The Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning is overseeing SFTAS, while the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation acts as the independent verification agent.

The Office of the Auditor General of the Federation conducts the annual performance assessments of the states with some of the most reputable external audit firms in the country.

It could be recalled that an Independent Verification Agent (IVA) delegation from the Federal Government on August, 2020 led by Mrs Isioma Bola-Audu visited Calabar for several days to undertake a comprehensive audit and verification exercise as part of the validating criteria for the World Bank State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) Programme for results. As a result of that exercise, the Cross River State Ministry of Finance secured the sum of $10.4M which has subsequently increased to $20.4 million after Cross River State further scored 100% in the 2020 Additional Finance Annual Performance Assessment (APA) carried out in November 2020.

The report also notes that Cross River State have strengthened its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) collection, implemented biometric registration and verification to reduce payroll fraud; improved its procurement practices for increased transparency and value for money; strengthened its public debt management and fiscal responsibility framework; improved debt sustainability and instituted a more transparent budgeting process over the course of the fiscal year.

Cross River State Commissioner for Finance and Chairman of the State SFTAS Steering Committee, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr revealed that the independent verification success is a confirmation of Governor Ayade's commitment to transparency, accountability and fiscal performance. This achievement by the Ayade led administration has set a national record and is indeed an endorsement by the World Bank, the world’s foremost international financial institution.

The commissioner thanked God for the results and stated that it was made possible only through the ever present support and guidance of His Excellency, Sir Ben Ayade.

He further said that the funds will be properly utilized in accordance with the Governor’s vision in the 2021 budget.

He concluded saying “The Cross River SFTAS Steering Committee is made up of the internal revenue service, office of accountant general, budget office, bureau of due process and the debt management office. Heads of these MDAs and their staff played a critical role in the State’s resounding success. We all worked days and nights, on weekends, on holidays and even during the lockdown to achieve these results for and on behalf of the good people of Cross River State.”