₦airaland Forum

NIGERIA@60:NKUKWAK COMES ALIVE SEPT. 27


NKUKWAK will celebrate Nigeria's 60th independence Anniversary with a command performance tagged "Naija@60" on Sunday, 27th of September, 2020, by 4pm at the Main Bowl, Cultural Centre Complex, Calabar, Cross River State

Known for its captivating and unique style of theatrical stage presentation, NKUKWAK, is an Efik vernacular interpretation for the melodious tunes produced from the combination of indigenous musical instruments used for the production of dramatic presentations.

The organizer of the event, Cross River State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Development, Mr. Eric Anderson, said "celebrating a diamond jubilee, is no small feat, noting that NKUKWAK's Naija@60 will x-ray and celebrate Nigeria's history and achievements of the last 60 years as an independent Nation.

NKUKWAK'S Naija@60 edition will feature dance, drama, drums, spoken words, ecetera".

Powered by the Cross River State Ministry of Culture and Tourism Development, NKUKWAK's Naija@60 event which is expected to attract huge attendance, will be open to all, free of charge.

Edo: Ayade Congratulates Obaseki


Cross River state governor, Sir Ben Ayade has congratulated his Edo state counterpart, Godwin Obaseki on his re-election.

A press statement signed by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Christian Ita, Ayade described Obaseki's victory at the polls as well deserved considering his achievements in the past four years.

"I extend my warm felicitations to you on your well deserved victory in the just concluded Edo gubernatorial election. For those of us who have keenly followed your giant strides in Edo state, your victory did not come as a surprise.

“Your re-election therefore, represents a bold and emphatic testimony to the good work you have done in the past four years", the statement quoted Ayade as saying.

He however, urged Governor Obaseki to see his “victory as a clarion call to do more for Edo people who have these four years reposed their confidence in you".

Expressing delight that governor Obaseki's re-election now brings the entire South south under PDP total control, the Cross River state governor urged him to be magnanimous in victory.

He also commended President Muhammadu Buhari, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their neutrality in the election.

"The election has been fought and won and it is refreshing to note that our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has maintained its total control of our geo-political zone, the South south. Having won a hard fought election, I encourage you to be magnanimous in victory by extending an olive branch to your opponents on the other side.

“I also wish to use this medium to commend the President, Muhammadu Buhari, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC and the security agencies for their neutrality thus allowing the will of Edo people to prevail.”

Ayade seeks review of Solid Minerals Act, insists on states involvement in licensing


Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade has called for the urgent review of the Solid Minerals Act of 2007, which places the exploration and exploitation of solid minerals in the Exclusive Legislative list.

Making the call at the state Executive Council Chamber of the governor's office in Calabar, during the visit of the Minister of State for Solid Minerals, Mr Uche Ogah, Governor Ayade decried the subsisting policy where mining licenses are issued to miners without the input of the host states where the minerals are found.

While flaying the obnoxious policy, the governor said: "If you look at the Mineral Act of 2007, particularly in reference to Section One, it provides for the total appropriation of solid minerals under the purview and control of the federal government. Unfortunately the Land Use Act puts the land as property of the state under the control of the governors. So the president, as well as the minister, along with the governors must have to sit at a round table and talk. But unfortunately that has not happened. However, I am happy you are being very proactive by coming for this engagement."

He said it is “unacceptable for an investor to go to Abuja and get a license to mine in my state without my knowledge and without my input. The investor simply sits with a local community chief and enter into a Community Development Agreement (CDA) which is meant to favour the investor. And so, with as little as dry gin and a little money, the community signs off a great potential because there is no involvement of the state."

Ayade informed the minister that “states are becoming aggressive, states have begun the process of locking the people you give your mining license to that they cannot enter their lands without authorization from the states.”

The governor therefore, urged the Federal Government to get states involved in the process of issuance of mining license.

He commended the minister for interfacing with stakeholders in the sector, saying: “Until you get to the point where you sit with the state governors and engage them the way you are doing now, then this disagreement will persist.

“Your visit shows you understand the problem because the state owns the land and in law, whatever is underneath the land and up to the sky, belongs to the landowners. So, for the federal government that exists in the air to be the owners of waterways, owners of anything underneath the ground, is not right.”

Urging for an urgent review of the policy, the governor enjoined: "Maybe it is time for us to take it out of the Exclusive List, maybe it is time for us to take them to the Concurrent List. The federal government must realise that the development of a state is a function of the state government. The federal government, therefore must focus mainly on economy, security, foreign policy and all that will keep this country as an indivisible entity."

Ayade who further enlisted the help of the minister to push for the review of the extant law which prevents states from taking advantage of their god-given resources said: "My recommendation, therefore, is that you must find a modus operandum that allows you the power of taking advantage of the constitution that is about to be reviewed to say look, even before you come to us to seek license for mining please go and get approval and clearance from the state government. Until that is done, the direct introduction of the CDA which enables the investor to deal directly with the community will continue to put the community in danger."

Earlier, the Solid Minerals Minister who was in the state"for a two-day working visit during which he met with stakeholders in the sector, lauded Ayade for the “outstanding successes that your administration has achieved in executing people focused legacy projects for the peace and prosperity of the people of Cross River State. For me, I call it an audacity of hope where there is hopelessness."

The minister solicited the support of the governor “in accelerating the development of the huge mineral deposits found in the state. I understand in Cross River you have minerals like Barite, lead, zinc, iron ore, granite manganese etc. You have over 33 solid minerals. Even some nations in Africa do not have as many minerals as Cross River has got. This shows that the state is blessed."

He further stated that part of his mission was also "to sensitize mine operators, members of the host communities and other mining stakeholders to ensure mining activities are conducted in a safe efficient, environmental friendly manner, consistent with the provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining act of 2007."

Okay good for you then.

BREAKING...

PDP NWC TO RT HON Jarigbe Agom: POINTING ACCUSING FINGER FOR YOUR DEFEAT, IRRESPONSIBLE, THOUGHTLESS, CHILDISH

September 14, 2020

Press Conference

The attention of the National Working Committee (NWC) of our great party has been drawn to misleading comments by one of the aspirants in the recently held Cross River North Senatorial primary election, Hon. Jarigbe-Agom Jarigbe, wherein he made spurious allegations against the NWC over his failure at the exercise.

Ordinarily, the NWC should not honour such reckless and irresponsible allegation with a response, but being a responsive leadership, the Uche Secondus-led National Working Committee, in the interest of the teeming members and supporters of our party in Cross River state, has decided to put the record straight.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Cross River North Senatorial election was duly conducted by a five-man Electoral panel, with a comprehensive delegates list issued by the party.

At the end of the exercise, a majority report by three members, signed by the Chairman, secretary and a member of the committee indicated that three aspirants; Hon. Jarigbe and other aspirants were in attendance along with INEC officials and security agencies at the time of accreditation of delegates.
The report also contained the accreditation of agents of the aspirants one of whom represented Hon. Jarigbe.

However, according to the report, during voting, Hon. Jarigbe and two other aspirants, namely Mr. Lupkata Nicholas and Mary Eru staged a walk-out having been part of the exercise from the beginning.

The majority report indicated that at the end of the exercise, which was abandoned by Hon. Jarigbe, an aspirant, Dr. Steve Odey scored 450 votes to beat Hon. Jarigbe, who scored 90 votes.

On the 7th of September, the Chief Returning Officer, Hon. Tebite in returning Dr. Steve Odey as winner also submitted to the national secretariat with the delegate list used for accreditation, ballot papers, used and unused, original result sheets, CTC copies of INEC report from Cross River state and the police report as required.

On the other hand, two members of the committee submitted a minority report to the national secretariat on 9th of September 2020, clear two days after the conduct of the primary, in which they submitted the name of Hon. Jarigbe as winner with 381 votes.

It is instructive to note that the minority report submitted by the two members did not contain the original party result sheet as approved by the Party Electoral guidelines. It did not also contain the used and unused ballot papers as required for authentication.
What is more, the congress purportedly conducted by the two members was done outside the authorized and approved venue for the exercise.

Moreover, the report of the appeal panel indicated that there was no appeal against the report submitted by the Chief Returning Officer and accordingly approved the congress as conducted and the election of Dr. Steve Odey, as candidate.

The decision of the NWC in accepting the election of Dr. Steve Odey is completely in compliance with the the constitution and the extant guidelines made thereunder.
The NWC was in no way involved and played no roles, directly or remotely, in the conduct of the election by the Committee set up for the purpose.

It is therefore, irresponsible, thoughtless and childish of Hon Jarigbe to point accusing finger on the NWC for his electoral failure and self-inflicted woes. Such is condemnable and completely unacceptable to the national leaders and members of our great party across board.

The NWC therefore cautions Hon. Jarigbe to desist from such unwarranted attempt to bring our party to disrepute which is frowned at by the constitution of the PDP.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary

PDP senatorial primaries: Odey extends olive branch to Jarigbe, others

People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the forthcoming Cross River North Senatorial Bye-election, Dr. Stephen Odey has expressed readiness to redefine representation at the senate if elected.

Speaking to journalists Thursday at the PDP national secretariat, Abuja, Odey promised that “Ogoja senatorial district will never remain the same” with him as senator.

"My people should expect the best. This is the time we are going to redefine representation at the national assembly. Cross River North will never remain the same in terms of representation at the national assembly.”

Odey thanked the state Governor, Sir Ben Ayade whom he described as 'super delegate' for the confidence reposed in him while commending all delegates at the September 5 primaries for finding him worthy to fly the party's flag in the October 31 senatorial bye-election.

"I wish to thank His Excellency the Governor, Senator Ben Ayade my super delegate and every other delegate at the primary election for trusting me with the party's ticket. I also want to thank the PDP national leadership for affirming my candidature. I won the election fairly and squarely. The NWC only did the right thing", Dr. Odey remarked.

"I sincerely wish to extend the olive branch to my co-constestants. Sheath your swords. There can only be one winner. I have always supported you, now is the time to support me. Come let us work together. It's a family affair. The task ahead demands unity and we are stronger together", he further said.

Dr. Stephen Odey in a keenly constested primaries, was on Saturday september 5, 2020 elected as PDP candidate for the Cross River North Senatorial District Bye-election holding October 31, 2020.

He was at the party's national secretariat, Abuja to finalize documentation with the party ahead of the bye-election.

PDP NWC confirms Odey as party's candidate for Cross River North senatorial bye-election

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the People's Democratic Party has confirmed Dr. Stephen Odey as the party's candidate in the October 31 Senatorial Bye-election in Cross River.

Rising from an emergency meeting which held at the party's National Secretariat, the apex organ of the party (NWC), upheld the Teleb Tebite led team's report which affirmed Odey as the winner of the September 5, 2020 primary election in ogoja, Cross River State.

Conveying the decision of the party, the national chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, said that the NWC after duly considering the reports submitted by various teams, was convinced beyond doubts that Dr. Stephen Odey won the primary election.

Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Calabar which had monitored the election, on monday, submitted it's report to its national chairman, Prof Mahmoud Yakub in Abuja.

The INEC report which was signed by the Cross River State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Emmanuel Hart also recognised Stephen Odey as the winner of the contentious primaries.

BREAKING..........

CROSS RIVER REC FORWARDS REPORT OF PDP SENATORIAL PRIMARY TO INEC CHAIRMAN

... Authenticates Dr Stephen Odey's victory

The Cross River State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Emmanuel Alex Hart on Monday forwarded a report of field electoral officers to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahood Yakubu on the just concluded Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senatorial primary held in Ogoja Council Secretariat.

The report as seen in the documents exclusively obtained authenticated the victory of Chief Barr Stephen Odey Ph D as the winner of the Senatorial primary held on Saturday, September 5, 2020 as the flag bearer of the PDP in the October 31 bye-election.

As seen the documents are the certified true copies and received by the office the chairman of INEC in Abuja.

The letter signed by the Cross River REC dated September 7, 2020 and addressed to the INEC chairman was titled, "FORWARDING OF REPORT OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY CROSS RIVER NORTH SENATORIAL BY-ELECTION HELD ON THE 5TH OF SEPTEMBER, 2020"

It reads, "Please find attached a report of our field officers (Electoral Officers of the five (5) Local Government Areas of the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State) in respect of the Peoples Democratic Party Cross River North Senatorial By-election held on the 5th of September, 2020.

"This is for your information and further action. Please accept the assurance of my esteemed regards."

The report has further faulted the forged documents in circulation, coming from the camp of Rt Hon Jarigbe Agom with the claim that he is the winner of the senatorial primary.

It has been confirmed that the Resident Electoral Commissioner's report supersedes every other fake and forged report being circulated.

It was also gathered that the man from Abuja called Modibo was reported by Jarigbe to have left the venue and as a result of that Jarigbe was reported to have walked out mid way into the election and a video circulation captured him when he was walking out of the election venue on Saturday.

The general public is advised to disregard the shameless and criminally forged documents to perpetuate their illegality.

See attached authentic certified true copies of the documents

PDP electoral panel submits Odey’s name as winner of Cross River North Senatorial primaries

The electoral panel chairman for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) primary election for Cross River Northern Senatorial District bye-election, Hon Olorogun Taleb Tebite has reaffirmed that Dr. Stephen Odey squarely won the primaries which held in Ogoja last Saturday.

Hon Tebite who doubled as the returning officer for the election stated this on Monday at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja shortly after submitting the report of the exercise to the party.

He maintained that the election was unprecedentedly peaceful and very transparent, adding that the election was witnessed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“This is one of the most transparent primary elections I have witnessed. We had six aspirants who were cleared for the election and three were present for the election namely Jarigbe Agom, Stephen Odey and Mary Ijji. Election held under a peaceful and transparent atmosphere and a winner emerged through the process witnessed by INEC Abuja and INEC Calabar and security agencies", Hon Tebite explained.

Continuing, he said: "Now there is a victor, others should join him and build a formidable front for the party ahead of the forthcoming election".

Hon Tebite commended the National Chairman of the party Uche Secondus for always promoting a level-playing field for all and sundry, observing that such gesture was responsible for the peace and stability in the party.

On his part, the Secretary of the electoral panel and electoral officer for primary election, Mr. Chuks Agwiti said that the exercise which saw the emmergence of Dr Stephen Odey as PDP candidate in the October 31 bye-election was conducted in strict compliance with the party's constitution and guidelines.

Chuks Agwiti said: "Flowing from the Electoral Act, all the processes in law were duly followed. We have evidence of attendance of INEC representatives, candidates and their agents. Everything is on record. There is evidence to show that due process was strictly followed in the conduct of the election. Infact, the election was perfect".

CNPP, Rep congratulate Odey for picking PDP ticket for Cross River North Senatorial poll


Twenty one opposition political parties in Cross River state under the aegies of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties( CNPP) and a member of House of Representatives, Hon.Legor Idagbo have congratulated Dr.Steve Odey on his victory in the just concluded PDP senatorial primary for Cross River North.

Odey Saturday defeated his closest rival, Hon.Agom Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe with 450 votes.

In their separate congratulatory messages , the CNPP and Idagbo described Odey's victory as a reflection of the peoples unwavering confidence in his ability to represent them in the Senate.

In a letter signed by Sunday Michael and Castro Ezema, State chairman and Publicity Secretary respectively and addressed to Odey, the CNPP said: "We congratulate you on your emergence as the Northern Senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Cross River state.

"The decision of the delegates to elect you as the PDP candidate from among other distinguished aspirants is a testimony of how far and wide you consulted, further to this, choosing a Yala son in compliance with the directive of the CNPP to all political parties demonstrates the commitment of your party in bringing balance, equity, fairness and justice"

The umbrella body of opposition political parties further commended the delegates and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC monitoring team "for abiding by the rules".

On his part, Hon.Idagbo said he was convinced that Dr. Odey, a former Chairman of Cross River SUBEB will represent the people of the Northern Senatorial District effectively in the red chamber when elected.

The federal lawmaker who is Chairman House Committee on Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring, further stated that Odey's emergence as candidate of the PDP was a reflection of the will of the people through the delegates of the party in the northern Senatorial district.

While commending the PDP and governor Ben Ayade for a peaceful, transparent and successful exercise, Hon. Idagbo assured Odey of his constituents' massive votes during the bye election.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgzG6tfcz7s

Bye-election: Odey wins PDP Cross River North Senatorial ticket


A former chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr Stephen Odey has emerged the winner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket for Cross River North Senatorial bye-election.

Odey polled 450 votes to defeat his closest rival and member of the House of Representatives, Hon Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, who garnered 90 votes.

The exercise, which took place at Ogoja council headquarters, was witnessed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The chairman of the electoral panel, Hon Olorogun Taleb Tebite, described the process as peaceful and orderly.

He declared Odey as the winner of the primary election having scored the highest number of votes.

One of the INEC officials who observed the primaries, Mr. Amula Timotheus expressed satisfaction with the exercise.

He said the exercise was conducted in line with INEC guidelines and was therefore, satisfactory.

On his part, the state governor, Sir Ben Ayade, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise.

The governor, who spoke moments after casting his vote lauded the peaceful atmosphere under which the election was held.

He also commended INEC for playing their observatory role adequately.

Governor Ayade said the election was a family affair as all the candidates are members of the PDP family in the state.

He assured that the party will work together in their collective interest to win the general election.

Obudu Ranch Resort Regaining it's lost Glory As Guests Troop in After Covid 19 lockdown.

Sequel to the lifting of restrictions of movement by the federal government, holiday makers from all parts of Nigeria have thronged the Obudu ranch resort to enjoy their holidays.

This much was evident last weekend when the resort witnessed a beehive of activities with guests flocking in in their numbers to take in the beautiful scenery of the Obudu ranch resort.

Speaking to newsmen , the Special Adviser on Obudu ranch resort Hon Bobby Effiom Ekpenyong expressed delight at the influx of guests from around the country.

"We are quite delighted to receive this large number of people to the ranch resort, in my time here this is the largest number of guests we have received at the same time here at the ranch" the Special Adviser quipped.

Thanking the Governor for his foresight in revamping the ranch, Honorable Ekpenyong said " His Excellency the Governor saw this coming that after the lockdown Nigerians will need a place to go and relax , that is why he readily made funds available for the renovation of facilities at the ranch resort. "

Continuing he said " As you can see we are at full capacity, infact We had a full house at the ranch last weekend. Guests that arrived the ranch without prior booking could not get accomodations because the ranch was filled with guests from outside the state"

He advised Cross Riverians wishing to spend their Christmas holidays at the ranch to book ahead of time so as to avoid the rush for rooms.

"With the way guests are trooping in from outside the state, I advice anyone wishing to spend their Christmas holidays at the ranch to book ahead of time , because by then I cannot guarantee there will be rooms " the Special Adviser Said.

Speaking earlier, one of the holiday revellers Mr Matthew Aboderin said he was wowed by the sheer ambience of nature at the Obudu ranch resort and advised the federal government to assist Cross River in promoting the tourist site because it has the potential to be a massive revenue earner for the government .

"My wife and I saw a video on social media advertising the resort and we thought we should give it a try, and sincerely speaking this has been a wonderful experience for my family. What nature has bestowed on this place is better experienced than imagined and I urge the federal government to support this resort either by holding meetings or conferences here to further promote and advertise the resort " Mr Aboderin said.

Ayade visits CSS Farms, vows to train more CR Youths on Agripreneurship

The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade yesterday visited foremost Agricultural Training and Business Farms in Abuja, vowing to build capacity of more Cross River youths on Agribusiness.

The visit became necessary to enable Ayade assess the expansive Hi-Tech driven institution where more Cross River indigenes would be trained on modern ways of farming and Agripreneurship.

Impressed at the Infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities, Ayade pledged continuous partnership with CSS Global Integrated Farms to ensure full beneficiation in line with his administration's agro-revolution in the state.

"I am overwhelmed by this gigantic agricultural institution standing here. The facilities are world-class. I have seen technology in full display. And Cross River will exploit every opportunity here to better her people's skills and build capacity needed to lead a successful business in agriculture. The technical knowledge and 21st century farm experience that our youths need to effectively and successfully drive, enhance and maximize the benefits of Green Money can be acquired in this farm". he said.

Continuing: "We will train as many Cross indigenes as possible because we believe that our future lies in agriculture. It is the only guaranteed way to achieve food sufficiency, mass employment and revenue earnings. Only agriculture can help us break the chains of family poverty and reverse our plunging economy".

The governor who was given a rousing reception for pioneering state governments' partnership with the farm for training and capacity building of farmers was conducted round the farm by it's chairman, Dr John Kennedy Opara whom Ayade described as a man with a clear but rare vision to reverse the fortunes of Nigeria through innovative agriculture.

Speaking, the Chairman of CSS Global Integrated Farms, Abuja Dr. John Kennedy Opara extolled Ayade's "inspirational leadership style", adding that the governor was not only laying a solid foundation for generations unborn but was also committed to liberating the people and the state from financial emasculation.

"I can clearly see the kind of future Ayade intends for Cross River State. His passion for humanity has got him thinking even beyond the present into generations ahead.

"Ayade is not only thinking of today's Cross River but also tomorrow's. And it only strategic that he is assiduously investing in the future of youths of the state particularly through agriculture. By the time Ayade is done, Cross River would have been on a pedestal of financial security and economic stability.

"Cross River governor, Prof. Ben Ayade is one of the few bests around and many of his contemporaries believe his agricultural model is worth emulating", he remarked.

CSS Global Integrated Farms is a leading, technology driven agribusiness Company in Nigeria, that develops full scale mechanized agricultural system through sustainable corporate initiatives programs and global partnerships. It is the baseline and movement set to change the face of Agricultural practice in Nigeria.

Over 1000 farmers and prospective farmers have been trained by Ben Ayade at CSS Farms since 2018.

*CRS MOF Secures $10M Grant as World Bank Verifies Cross River State Eligibility.*

Independent Verification Agents (IVA) from the World Bank are in Cross River State for the verification exercise as part of the validating criteria of the World Bank State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability Programme for Results (SFTAS) a programme supported by the World Bank in collaboration with the Federal Ministry Finance and the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation which is aimed at improving transperency and accountability in governance for sustainable growth and development.

Speaking during the meeting held at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Finance, the leader of the World Bank IVA team to Cross River, Mrs Isioma Bola-Audu said the team is in Cross River to assess the state’s achievement of the Disbursement-linked results (DLRs) in accordance with the Annual Performance Assessment (APA) guidelines and Disbursement Link Indicators(DLIs) verification protocols.

She noted that the programme has nine Disbursement Link Indicators(DLIs) and attracts grants for State’s that are able to meet the DLIs as an incentive for running a transperent, accountable and sustainable government.

According to her Cross River State is one of a handful of states of the federation that has met with the eligibility criteria of the programme by submitting and publishing online its Annual Budget and Audited Financial Statements in a timely manner, thereby qualifying for the World Bank grant. Further to the State’s qualification, the IVA team is here to verify the state’s performance in 9 different categories of best governance practice.

“We have seen remotely that Cross River State has done well in achieving the eligibility criteria and we are here to verify the Disbursement Linked Indicators in accordance with the verification protocols” She stated.

Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr in his remarks welcomed the World Bank team to the state and assured them that the administration will never deviate from running a transperent, accountable and sustainable government in line with the State’s Public Finance Management Laws and the State’s Fiscal Responsibility Law as passed and assented to.

The Commissioner stressed that Cross River State has been able to show that governance is being run in a transperent, accountable & sustainable manner which is why the state has succeeded in qualifying for the World Bank Grants.

The Cross River State’s SFTAS Steering Committee is Chaired by the Ministry of Finance and comprises of the Internal Revenue Service, Office of the Accountant General, Bureau of Due Process & Procurement, Budget Office, Office of the Head of Service and Debt Management Department.

Why I’m investing in Cross River - Arthur Eze

Billionaire business man and oil magnate Prince Arthur Eze has revealed that his decision to explore investment opportunities in Cross River state was influenced by governor Ben Ayade's giant strides in the areas of Industrialisation.

Commending the Governor for his innovative leadership, Prince Eze stated that his investment in the state would complement what Ayade has done so far.

The Ukpo, Anambra state born business mogul was speaking during a tour of Industrial facilities built by the Ayade administration. He expressed delight at the Governor's foresight to transform the economic fortunes of Cross River.

Said he: "I have travelled far and wide all over the world and I never thought we could have this kind of things in Africa talk more of Nigeria. I am amazed at what I have seen here today and I must commend Governor Ayade for a fantastic job "

Continuing, Prince Eze said: "For those of us in business, we can smell a good business opportunity from miles away and when I saw on TV what the Governor is doing, I decided to come and see for myself and I must say it is of much joy to me that this is happening in Nigeria, therefore, this man must be supported so that this Investments do not go to waste ".

On Specific areas of interest, the Atlas Oranto Petruleum boss added: "Whatever Ayade does, I am interested in it, infact, anyway he needs me, I will follow him because he is a young man with so much wisdom and energy. For us, the older generation, we will be leaving the scene, so these Investments we will be making in Cross River is basically for you the youths who are leaders of tomorrow."

He commended Ayade for interpreting president Buhari's policy of a Nigeria without oil road map

"President Buhari has put in place various programs to chart a new course for Nigeria without oil, and by all I have seen here today, Ayade is a leading example to others in that regard because he has interpreted perfectly the policy of the Mr President that encourages everyone to go back to agriculture"

Ealier, governor Ayade expressed excitement at Prince Eze's visit, saying states need more local Investors like him to kick start and recalibrate their economies.

"As a state we have invested in 33 industries, those industries cannot be run and operated by government.”

GOVERNOR AYADE INTERVENES IN OFFTAKE OF AGRIC PRODUCE

In a bid to ensure quick turnover of harvested goods by farmers, His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ben Ayade, has made provision for the State to assist in offtaking harvested items.

The Commissioner for Commerce, Pst. Mrs.RoseMary Archibong, made this disclosure when she received in her office today, 28th August a team from NIRSAL, accompanied by members of the National Cooperative for Commercial and Industrial Agriculture NACCIA.

The Commissioner, while commending the Intervention of the CBN, NIRSAL and other Stakeholders appealed that NIRSAL looks into some grey areas that have made the programme a bit slow in the State and pointed out that often times farmers, express apprehension over delayed delivery of farm tools and other logistic interventions, adding that the Ministry of Commerce, will do her best to ensure that Crossriverians are better informed on the value chain that exist in the Agrobusiness including export opportunities.

She expressed satisfaction that Governor Ayade's Agro economy drive, is being embraced by a good number of Crossriverians and encouraged the Cooperative association for harnessing hundred and eighty farmers into their cassava Cooperative group.

Earlier, the leader of the Cooperative group Mr. Joseph Edet, explained that the Association was incorporated in 2015,to organise Nigeria's small holders rural farming population to embrace modern, Commercial and mechanised Agriculture adding that the Cooperative, clusters the farmers and formats it's structure to enable members qualify for Commercial Banks and CBN intervention loans for Agriculture and value chain development.

Also,the Programme Officer NIRSAL Calabar, Mrs.Julie Idegu, stated that NIRSAL do not finance the clearing of green areas but are on ground to give loans (farm tools) to farmers and expressed delight that the government is getting involved in offtaking products from the farmers.

She explained that CBN, has put a structure to that farmers have ready market on ground fortheir produce, before any loan (farm tools) is released to them.

She thanked the Commissioner for her reception and promised to work closely with the Ministry.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dw2BGnu2w9Q

Industrialization: Business Mogul, Arthur Eze lauds Ayade, Seeks Investment in Ginger Production

Business Mogul and Billionaire Industrialist, Prince Arthur Eze, Tuesday expressed shock at the high level of industrialization under the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration in Cross River State.

Commending Ayade for his vision and foresight, the business mogul said nowhere in Africa has he seen such widespread industries undertaken by a state government.

Speaking shortly after inspecting the various industries already completed at the Ayade Industrial Park, Eze quipped: "I have never seen such a thing anywhere in Africa. I have travelled round East, West and North Africa, but I haven't seen such. The people of Cross River are lucky to have this young man as governor who is creating a lot of jobs for the teeming unemployed young people with the intent to create even more and this gives hope for the future."

He further added that "Ayade is indeed a wonderful human being and God will bless him for what he is doing in Cross River." 

Noting that the feat accomplished by Governor Ayade could only be likened to extracting water from a rock, the billionaire business said: "This state had oil wells, but those wells were long taken away and given to another state, but God sent you a good leader to take care of you and chart a new course for Cross River. Ayade has used the wisdom God bestowed on him to run the affairs of this state and I urge you all to join hands with him and build something that will be even more long lasting than oil, which is agriculture." 

Disclosing possible areas of collaboration with the Cross River State government, Eze who has placed orders for the supply of face shields produced from the state's garment factory, offered: "Whatever Ayade does, I am interested in it, infact, anyway he needs me,  I will follow him because he is a young man with so much wisdom and energy."

While being conducted round the rice seedling and seeds multiplication factory,  Chief Eze promised to support the factory with 1000 bags of rice seeds, just as he requested land for the cultivation of ginger for export.

Governor Ayade, while thanking Prince Eze for his visit as well as his interest in investing in the state's agro-alied economy, said: “prince Arthur Eze, conscious of the philosophy of President Buhari’s Nigeria without oil road map , has decided to divert part of his wealth from oil business into agriculture,  not necessarily for profit but for the philosophical basis of creating jobs, putting food on the table  and creating a horizon of opportunities for young men and women, irrespective of state of origin."

Continuing, the governor said: "I want to commend you and thank you because you also intend to go into rice production and any other agricultural value chain. So I am excited by your interest in our agro-alied value chain.

"As a state, we have invested in 33 industries and those industries cannot be run and operated by government. So we need to find a third party that will take them off government and have private investors and private men who have proven intergrity, character, honour and clean money of this nature to come in and take part of those Investments, either through a concessionaire mechanism or outright privatization or a partnership on royalty of some sorts. And that has become critical and urgent for us to actually divest some of our Investment and hold back and watch."

*FFK Withdrawals "Stupid" in His Statement,Says No Threat Intention To Any Journalists*

"I met with my advisors till late last night and I wish to say the following. I hereby withdraw the word "stupid" which I used in my encounter with a journalist in Calabar.

I have many friends in the media who I offended by losing my cool and using such words. I hereby express my regrets for doing so.

I do however wish to state categorically that no threat of physical harm was ever made to the journalist in question and neither did I send anyone to threaten him. Anyone that says otherwise is lying and I challenge them to bring the proof.

I would never seek to physically harm a journalist. For the last 30 years I have defended and worked with journalists and fought for the right of freedom of expression.

I am also very close to many in that profession. I would be the last to seek to disparage those that are honorable and noble within its ranks.

I hope that this will assuage the pain and anger of anyone that was hurt or offended by this ugly episode. I have now put this matter behind me and moved on. Now my tour of the South continues. Moving to yet another state today!"- FFK

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKFTF6jlyRM

Why FG should support Cross River’s superhighway, deep seaport projects- Fani Kayode

A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has made a strong case on the need for the Federal Government to support the signature projects of the Cross River State Government.

The projects include the 21 meters draft Bakassi Deep Seaport and a 275km superhighway which is to serve as the evacuation corridor for the seaport.

Speaking in Calabar after a tour of projects undertaken by the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration in the state, Fani-Kayode also urged the Federal Government “ to make a special allocation for Cross River State given the fact that so much development has taken place in the last few years” under the current administration.

He described the superhighway project as essential and very progressive, stating that the project “will enhance Nigeria’s unity and promote the integration of Northern /Southern national infrastructure.”

According to him, “the Superhighway is an evacuation corridor from the Bakassi Deep Seaport which will open up the Atlantic ocean to the whole of Northern Nigeria. This will open up trade and and enhance national cohesion and integration.”

He lauded the governor for creating an industrial base for the state and projected that “Cross River State will be one of the most prosperous states in Nigeria whether oil money is available or not,” in the next five years.

“President Muhammadu Buhari may have seen what other people may have not see in Governor Ayade that has made him visit Cross River many times to flag off and Commission projects. He (the President) is always talking of Cross River State being the good example of what other states should be doing. And I share in President‘s view.

“There should be special consideration by the Federal Government to support the 275km superhighway and the Bakassi Deep Seaport projects of Cross River State Government under Ayade, because these are not projects for Cross River benefits alone. These are massive projects that the whole of Northern Nigeria will benefit more,” he emphasized.

Continuing, Fani-Kayode said: “No other state in Nigeria has envisioned such projects like Superhighway and there are very few states in Nigeria that are in a position to do such projects. The Deep Seaport project is a brilliant idea which is capital intensive.

“I will like to use this medium to call on the Federal Government to put in money into these projects and support them in the name of national unity, national security and national cohesion in other for other states to do similar things that will bring benefits to the whole of Nigeria.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pd8eNdTh6DE

Nigeria needs more governors like Ayade -Fani-Kayode

Former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode says Nigeria needs more governors like Sir Ben Ayade of Cross River State given his impactful style of governance.

Speaking during his tour of some major projects of the Ayade-led administration, including the fully furnished social housing scheme allocated to the displaced people of Bakassi in Ifia Ayong, Bakassi Local Government Area, Fani-Kayode lauded the governor for changing the narrative of the internally displaced people through the provision of tastefully furnished houses.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, who described the apartments as a luxury, said he had never seen their kind anywhere in the country constructed for the internally displaced people (IDPs).

“Having gone round this country, to places like Southern Kaduna IDP camp, the North East IDP camp, there is absolutely no comparison to what I have seen here today. Believe me, you should be thanking God that you have this kind of governor. It is a very different story in those IDP camps.

“No doubt you have a government that is doing its best. The governor could do a lot more if the federal government has been supporting.”

Insisting that the houses in Ifia Ayong have the best of facilities, Fani-Kayode said: “In other IDP camps, you have substantial population of the people that have absolutely nothing, no shelter, no water, no electricity, no food, it is more like some kind of a ghetto or concentration camps. It has taken a lot of effort from people to try and help them, but they are now way compared to what you have here.”

Continuing, he said: “Look at what you have here, you have houses that have been built, a housing estate fully furnished with tarred roads and you can just walk round the estate, you have power, you have water, you have a beautiful and peaceful scenery. It is more like a holiday resort.

While urging other leaders to take a cue from Ayade and make the people a priority, the former Special Adviser on Public Affairs to former President Olusegun Obasanjo said: “We need more of this types of things in other states, we need more governors like this. We need more people like this across this country who truly love their people. Let this serve as an example to other governors, to other leaders in this country that the priority ought to be the people.”

He decried the ceding of Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon, saying “it should never have been the case because you have been robbed in my view.

“The ruling of the Court was that they (Cameroon) could take the Bakassi peninsula, but once that had been done, it had to be ratified by the Nigerian legislature and there had to be a referendum, a plebiscite for the people of Bakassi to agree to that.

“Painfully, you were not given the opportunity of having a referendum, the matter never went to the National Assembly and consequently in my view, I would argue strongly that this territory that was ceded to the Cameroon was unlawful and therefore still belongs to Nigeria. And if I were president Buhari today, and I remember vividly his promises during campaigns where he said he will look into the issue of Bakassi if elected president. I would urge him to return our honour to us as a nation.”

While speaking, Governor Ayade said: “The former minister, even though not a Cross Riverian, has a deep knowledge of the pains and the sufferings of the people of Cross River State.”
Chiding the federal government for what he said was a gross act of insensitivity towards the state, the governor quipped: “I am shocked that this country is watching what is happening to this state. We are not part of the 13% derivation, we are like a weeping child in NDDC, we have no say because it is on the basis of the quantum of oil produced that NDDC allocates projects.

“We have lost our oil wells, the N500m per month as agreed is not coming, the N15bn every two years is not coming. We have just been reduced to want in body, in spirit, in soul and in our finances.

Former minister of Aviation Chief Femi Fani Kayode paid a familiarisation visit to Cross River. Details later.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2NPxmw-ePo

Was on a gruelling 8 hour tour of projects in Cross Rivers state with Governor Ben Ayade yesterday and it was a remarkable experience. We visited an IDP camp in the Bakassi peninsula as well and expressed our views. Listen to this...

Was on a gruelling 8 hour tour of projects in Cross Rivers state with Governor Ben Ayade yesterday and it was a remarkable experience. We visited an IDP camp in the Bakassi peninsula as well and expressed our views. Listen to this... pic.twitter.com/w4gKZ4IJdW

— Femi Fani-Kayode (@realFFK) August 19, 2020

Why Cross River is aggressively pursuing agro- Industrialisation-Ayade

Cross River state governor, Sir Ben Ayade has said that his administration was aggressively harnessing the rich agricultural potentials of the state with the view to creating employment opportunities.

This, he explained, necessitated the one industry per local government policy of his government.

Ayade spoke in Calabar while welcoming officials of an agricultural servicing firm, CRO-PIT, who came for a presentation.

"I welcome you to Cross River State which is the epicenter of tourism. So you are welcome to a state that gives you the pleasure, the glamour, the time, the atmosphere to actually have an opportunity and a sense of value as you come in.

"During your stay here you will see that in the course of time, apart from the opportunity we present in the agro sector, we also present a state that has the right environment, the right industrial harmony for industrialization to thrive, the governor told the CRO-PIT visiting team.

He commended the team for a brilliant presentation, hinting that Cross River would explore areas of partnership with the firm.

"I am quite enthused that you have a direct partnership with an Israeli firm that I know and I saw all the other partners including those that provide technical support. I saw that you are in 22 states and you have agricultural extension services and your IT support system which perhaps captures everything we so need", Ayade stated.

Enumerating the agro-economic opportunities that abound in the state, the governor said: "In Cross River State, we have nearly one industry per local government area. If you spoke with my Commissioner of Agriculture he will tell you that in Obubra we have a glucose syrup factory coming up to take full beneficiation of the cassava production.

“Today in Nigeria most companies that produce soft drinks use fructose basically as their major source of sugar. So maltose, fructose, glucose syrup will all be products of our cassava-based production.

"In my own local government, Obudu, we have set up a sesame seed processing plant to process sesame seed for export to Europe. So we are tying every local government to their area of priority and that is where your mapping capability comes in because we need to do a proper soil profiling of the entire state.

"Up the Obudu cattle ranch we started a very aggressive program which formed the basis for the cargo airport. We are hoping to grow ornamental flowers, scented flowers for the production of perfume concentrate for export to France and Holland. We are also going massively into potatoe production for the export of potato just like Rwanda does to France. Potatoes grown in the Obudu cattle ranch are organic in nature, very high in terms of nutritional value with very little additives. So it will be the choice potato in France"

on his part, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Ntufam Okon Owuna disclosed that Over 70% of the present policy thrust of Cross River State is based on agriculture.

"The state government has acquired over 25000 hectares of land across the senatorial districts and it is being prepared and made ready for agricultural cultivation", the Commissioner said.

Earlier, the Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of CRO-PIT, Mr. Kenneth Ahaneku said his firm currently manages over 600,000 farmers around the country.

Ahaneku said his firm was eager to partner with Cross River in agricultural management.

"CRO-PIT Nigeria limited is an organization involved in the management and financing and production of crops for farmers in partnership with the Central Bank.

”At present, we are managing over 600 thousand farms and our target is to hit five million farmers. We will be seeking partnership with the Cross River State government in the area of storage, bagging and distribution of the rice produced at the Ogoja rice mill", he said

If you have nothing to say, shut up!

Ayade begins construction of schools across riverine communities in Odukpani


As part of the transformation agenda of the Cross River State Government in extending rural community and social infrastructure development to the people of Obio Usiere in Eniong Abatim, Odukpani Local Goverment Area,
*His Excellency, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade* magnanimously approved the construction of a four block secondary school class room plus teachers staff room and a unit of VIP toilet consisting of two toilets each for male and female members of the community.
This is to compliment the existing class room blocks currently accomodating the Obio Usiere Government secondary school.
It is expected that, on completion of this secondary school class room blocks, students enrollment and quality of education within and outside the community would greatly improve.
While presenting the first tranche of the project cheque to the community, the *Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of International Development Cooperation*
Dr Mrs Inyang Asibong
extended the warm felicitations of the Governor, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade to the resilient people of Eniong Abatim Community, particularly the Obio Usiere people where the project is sited. She reiterated the commitment the agency’s development partners, the World Bank in supporting creeks and riverine communities within the State.
Also speaking at today’s flag off ceremony, the
*Chairman, CRS Community & Social Development Agency*
Mr Toni Joe Ikpeme thanked the Obio Usiere community sons and daughters who contributed in making the project a reality.
He applauded them for conceiving the project at the community level in a rancor free atmosphere as well as ensuring that the indigenes provided their share of the counter part funding which is a fundamental prerequisite for the take off of the project.
In a very special way,
the Chairman of the agency poured encomiums on the Natural Leader of Odukpani,
*His Royal Highness, High Chief Dr. Asuquo Ekpenyong (OON)*
who is incidentally, the Chairman / Leader of Eniong Abatim Community for his renewed vision and drive towards making Eniong Abatim Community Great again.
He also thanked the
*Hon. Commissioner of Finance*
Mr. Asuquo Ekpenyong for bringing a glimmer of hope to the people of Eniong Abatim vis a vis his community development advocacies.
There’s no gain saying that Eniong Abatim Community which had hitherto been noted for supply of the State’s Human Resource personnel has been marginalized over time due largely to the difficult terrain which has denied the people basic community development services but all that is about to change given His Excellency’s zeal and drive in transforming these riverine rural communities and the vulnerable people there in.
The Obio Usiere community development project, signals the Agency’s gradual winding down of this phase of world bank assisted project which stated 5years ago and ending in September this year.
According to Mr. Ikpeme, going forward, the Cross River State Government in conjunction with our development partners, the World Bank, is finalizing a fresh template aimed at ensuring that, the next phase of the world bank project christened *CARES*
Covid 19 Action Recovery & Economic Stimulus;
1. Covers more creeks and riverine communities of the state with a view to ensuring that the economic impact of the corona virus pandemic is reduced to enable Cross Riverians regain their sources of livelihoods.
2. Ensure that governance is brought a lot more closer to these marginalized and vulnerable communities which in most cases, are cut off from their kieth and kin in cross river state because of their close proximity to Akwa Ibom State which exposes them to incessant communal conflicts and land disputes.
Also speaking, the
*Acting General Manager* of the Agency, Mr Fidel Undie
admonished the communities as well as the members of the Obio Usiere project management committee to ensure that the project is completed according to the agency’s time lines without compromising standards, as not following the project’s bill of quantity will forced the agency to terminate or review the project.

Governor Ben Ayade Set Up Cross River Enabling Business Environment Council, Members Commit To Reposition Ease of Doing Business

By: David Peter


Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade has Set Up Members of the Cross River State Enabling Business Environment Council (CR-SEBEC), with a mandate to remove the critical bottleneck and constraints to doing business in the State.

Professor Ayade, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Professor Ivara Ejemot Esu, OFR, inaugurated 21-members of the CR-SEBEC at the Government House, Calabar.

Speaking during the inauguration, Governor Ivara, Stated that: “The state is set to make history in the promotion of overall investment climate amongst members countries at both the National and Subnational levels.”

He further charged the council members to streamlined, coordinate and to provide efficient and effective services to potential investors in order for the State to take its right of place in doing business.

Stating earlier, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Secretary to the Presidential Enabling Council and Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business who spoke via Zoom with the Governor and Council Members unveiled that, The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) was set up in July 2016 by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, to remove bureaucratic constraints to doing business in Nigeria and make the country a progressive easier place to start and grow a business.

In state of happiness and satisfaction, Mr. Nnamdi Offor, South South Zonal Cordinator, Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission said the council is happy about state government prompt action to set up the committee adding that the inaugurated members will create the right environment to advance economic activities of the State.

Responding to the Governor remark, Barrister Tutu Ekeng who doubled as the Cordinator - Cross River State Enabling Business Environment and Director General - Cross River Investment Promotion Bureau posited that, Nigeria currently rank 169 out of 190 economies in the World Bank Doing Business Ranking as at July.

She pledged that the committee will work assiduously to gear the State to a top list in doing business adding that, her team proactive step to align the State Enabling business processes with the endeavors of the
Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) and the Presidential Ease of Doing Business Council (PEBEC) will foster business development and growth across the State.

Barrister Tutu Ekeng, poured encomium to the Governor, His Excellency Professor Ben Ayade for is historical feat to maintain foremost in the State in the creation of Cross River State Enabling Business Environment Council. She assured the committee that with the productive nature and industrial stride of the Governor the State will verge ease to get business going and soothe for business start-up.

The Director General, finally gratified and congratulated the inaugurated members. She described them, a square peg in a square hole that will diligently work to enable Cross River State business friendly.

In attendance at the inauguration were members of the council; Barr. Tina Agbor - Secretary to the State Government & Secretary of Council; Pst. Mrs RoseMary Archibong, Commissioner for Commerce, Hon. Asuquo Ekpenyong, Commissioner for Finance; Hon. Peter Egba, Barr. Tutu Ekeng, Director General, Cross River Investment Promotion Bureau, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole - Secretary, Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council and Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business; Mr. Ayokunnu Ojeniyi - Project manager, Enabling Business Environment Secretariat, Mr. Nnamdi Offor - South South Zonal Coordinator, Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, Patience Obim, Special Assistant - Cross River Investment Promotion Bureau and other distinguished members of Enabling Business Environment Council (EBEC)

Ayade: Post-Covid-19 prosperity lies with farmers


Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has described farming as a veritable leeway to prosperity, urging Cross Riverians, especially women, to go into farming.

The governor spoke in Calabar at the flag off of input distribution to farmers as part of mitigation measures against the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the event was also the Minister for Agriculture, Alhaji Sabo Nanono.

According to Ayade, his administration's commitment to Agriculture was the reason farmers in the state enjoy five percent interest loan.

Ayade: "Let me use this opportunity to say it very loud and clear that the future prosperity lies with farmers. If you don't have a farm, you have no business in the 21st century.

"The post Covid 19 pandemic has become very clear that only farmers have the capacity to survive even if all the doors are closed and so I challenge everyone one of you to own a farm and to show me indeed that your farm is working.

"Cross River State has made a choice of agro industrialization and the project pathway is so orgasmic and organically connected with a kind of syntax that allows you enjoy the pleasure of the income stream that we have provided by making available a 5% interest loan for all farmers in Cross River State by leaving the sum of N500m with the Cross River microfinance bank.

Giving kudos to women farmers, Ayade said: "Let me say it very clearly that from my experience when you give a loan to a woman to go into farming, you are surer than when you give that loan to a man.Why? Because women are more dedicated, they are more committed, more consistent, they have fire power, they have Integrity and honour they have capacity they have intellect and morality they have everything that qualifies them to show consistency and commitment to purpose"

He urged the Minister to increase fund set aside by the federal government for women farmers so as to encourage them.

“I encourage women to please take advantage of the submission of the Honorable Minister for Agriculture that interest free loans are available. I also plead with the Honorable Minister to increase the money set aside for the women from 35% to 50% that way you can be sure that you will get your returns", the governor quipped.


Speaking earlier, Alhaji, Nanono disclosed that his Ministry was frantically working to ensure that Nigeria become self sufficient in food production.

His words: "This gathering is one of our efforts to work hand-in hand with state governments and other relevant stakeholders to assist in ensuring food security, economic growth and job creation, especially in the face of COVID-19 Pandemic.

"It is therefore my pleasure to be here with you today to roll out the distribution of agricultural inputs to smallholder farmers which include different categories of cocoa seedlings, improved oilpalm sprouted nuts and cashew seeds as part of my Ministry’s interventions to reduce the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on agricultural production in Nigeria and avert food scarcity in 2021.


"The Ministry and its research institutions are working towards making Nigeria self-sufficient in good quality seed and its availability to farmers as a foundation for attaining food and nutrition security as well as industrialization. The Ministry is supporting breeder and foundation seeds production and linking up with the private seed companies to make certified seeds available to farmers.

"This coupled with our efforts to improve rural infrastructure and other value-chains supports would invariably contribute to the attainment of Mr. President’s desire to ensure easy access to quality food and nutrition by Nigerians.

"Today, the Ministry is supporting the oilpalm farmers, with 5,000 improved oilpalm sprouted nuts and 1,500kg improved cashew seed. The cocoa farmers will also be supported with 20,000 cocoa seedlings and agrochemicals. In addition, Rice farmers will be supported with 1,000 kg of rice seeds"

According to him special incentives to women farmers were geared towards encouraging them more.

"In our input distribution efforts, at least 35% of the inputs are targeted at women farmers in line with the targets set in our National Gender Action Plan and Policies aimed at ensuring increased opportunities for women", the Minister said.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8s1O8B30mQ

Cameroon commends Ayade for hospitality to its refugees in Cross River

Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade has expressed optimism that the return of peace in Southern Cameroon will pave the way for the return of thousands of Cameroonian refugees to their home country.

This is as the Cameroonian Consul- General in Calabar, Mr.Onono Patrice commended the government and people of Cross River state for showing tremendous hospitality to the refugees.

Ayade who Spoke while receiving a delegation of Consular officials led by Patrice at the Conference Room of the Governor’s Office in Calabar, commended the Cameroonian government for taking steps to bring normalcy to the troubled parts of the country's South.

Said Ayade: "I am delighted to host you today as you come as a messenger to deliver the message of the impending visit of my counterpart in Southwest Cameroon. I want to hereby tell you that I have without hesitation approved the courtesy visit which you will organise with the secretary to government and my Commissioner for foreign affairs. They will work with you towards fixing a date that will be suitable for me to receive him here in Calabar afterwards embark on a journey to Obudu.

"I am happy to hear that your country is making efforts for peace to return to those two major provinces. I am particularly happy to hear that you have started reconstruction of the provinces because what makes us human beings is the spirit of compassion. The international view about what is happening in Cameroon is not good for the black man.

"And so anything we can do to assist our brothers from Cameroon to return to their home land and have a sense of dignity, a sense of humanity and in value and worth for man kind, we will do"

According to him, in the spirit of African brotherhood, Cross River was ever ready to provide its shoulders to the Cameroonian refugees in the state.

"It is our duty, our responsibility to actively provide a shoulder for your refugees, your own citizens who are here to find comfort. As a state, we have done our best to support UNHCR in supporting them (the refugees). For example, when they made a request for the provision of land I had no hesitation. I gave them land that they needed almost immediately"

Extolling the peace efforts of President Biya, Ayade said: "I want to commend president Paul Biya for this great initiative at his ripe age. God will give him peace, God will bless him as he does all he can to end the shame".

Speaking earlier, the Consul-General told governor Ayade he was instructed by Presiddent Biya to pay him a visit to intimate him of the desire of the governor of that country's South west region to visit the state.

Patrice: "Our visit this morning was instructed by the president of the Republic of Cameroon, His Excellency Paul Biya. He had instructed a consul visit to our refugees in Cross River State and this consul visit is a mission of the governor of the southwest region which is the region that shares border with Cross River State. And Cross River State is hosting about 62% of the total Cameroonian refugees in Nigeria.”

Continuing, Mr.Patrice said: "We want to also thank Your Excellency for his hospitality to our people who have been living in Nigeria for the past three years.

"We would also like to have our Governor pay you a courtesy visit and for us as consulate in Calabar, we are proposing them to visit Obudu because Obudu is very close to some areas where we have refugees.”