₦airaland Forum

Ayade's Aide Lambasts Eyo Ekpo



An aide to Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State governor, Linus Obogo, has reacted to a call by the defeated governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Eyo Ekpo for the impeachment of the governor.

The former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice under Donald Duke, Barr Eyo Ekpo had called for the impeachment of Governor Ayade.

But Obogo has described the call as absurd and ludicrous.

Reacting to Eyo Ekpo’s call in a statement to DAILY POST on Tuesday, Obogo who is the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said, “The defeated SDP governorship candidate’s call is borne out of interminable frustration, having misapplied his life savings on a wild goose chase of becoming a governor in the March governorship election.”

He described Ekpo’s call as “an outright hate speech against Governor Ayade. The call is totally anti-democratic and an attempt to pitch a responsible organ of government such as the House of Assembly against a responsible leadership of another organ of government.”

Insisting that Eyo Ekpo should not remind the people of Cross River of the ignoble role he played that culminated in reducing the state to an orphan among the comity of states in Nigeria, Obogo added, “Characters like Eyo Ekpo are indicators of how generously forgiving Cross Riverians are, otherwise, people like him should not be walking the street, much else expressing views on how the state should be run.

“It would be recalled that under a government he served, Bakassi Peninsular was ceded to Cameroon. It was still under their watch, that Cross River amassed the most humongous debt than any state in Nigeria, which this current government is not only grappling to offset but has made it rather impossible to access any loan facility from the financial institution.”

Continuing, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary quipped: “Were it not in a society like ours where we forget and forgive so easily, People like Ekpo who as the Attorney-General looked the other way while the state chapter of the Nigerian Union of Journalist’s (NUJ) land was expropriated by individuals for the building of castles should be answering questions as to the propriety or otherwise of the action of displacing NUJ from its property.”

While urging the SDP governorship candidate to let sleeping dog lie, as he continues to lick the wounds of his misadventure in the March governorship election, Obogo said: “I want to sincerely advise Ekpo to stop wallowing in fantastic speculation and desist from vending falsehood in the name of commenting on matters of the state.

“We all remember how he and the administration he served in, helped only themselves instead of Cross Riverians. While the people may have forgiven him for the vicarious role he played in plunging the state into an unremitting debt overhang and the attendant slavery, his haunting past has no doubt refused to go away as it continues to stalk him like an incubus.”

According to Obogo, his past is still haunting him. “an indication that history has not forgiven him, the outcome of his failed governorship bid was all too clear that he was politically a spent force who had nothing to offer the state. That is the more reason Ekpo should ask himself why everyone who pretended to be with him in the run-up to the election suddenly abandoned him like a leper. For a man who is part of the ugly narrative of the past, Ekpo clearly lacks the moral rectitude to pontificate on matters of state.

“He owes the people of Bakassi an apology, he owes the state an explanation for its economic miasma. That is why he should rather bury his head in shame than seeking to hug the spotlight in the name of playing the advocate for the state.”

Insisting that Ayade is focused on delivering the goods for the good people of Cross River State, Obogo further assured: “No amount of distraction will sway Ayade from continuing on his sworn declaration to develop the state through aggressive industrialization. It is an absolute commitment he owes Cross Riverians, and he is not about to waver or dither on that.”

Governor Ayade's indelible imprints on Carnival Calabar

By Effiong Ekpenyong MNIPR
(Double E)

The world acclaimed Carnival Calabar which was introduced by former Governor Donald Duke and sustained by his successor, Governor Liyel Imoke has undergone a lot of transformation under the incumbent Governor, Professor Ben Ayade within his short time in office.
Through the application of innovative ideas, the Governor has catapulted Carnival Calabar to global reckoning. It is now ranked amongst the best in the world, just as it continues to pull record crowds yearly.
In order to get the best from the various bands that electrify the carnival with scintillating and breathtaking performances, governor in one fell swoop, increased their fundings by 100%. This singular act was applauded by all involved in the planning of the carnival as it allows for better and more elaborate preparations.
He didn't stop at that. He ensures that the winning bands promptly paid their prize money.
Ayade has also ensured the Carnival themes are unveiled on time to allow for proper and effective interpretations by bands.
Another novel idea he has brought into the carnival is the introduction of the Governors Band. This undoubtedly, has given the carnival a niche above other carnivals in the country and beyond.
The introduction of more exciting attractions like Bikers Carnival (Wonders on Wheels), Formula K Vintage Car carnival, and most recently "Miss Africa" which has broadened the carnival's horizon, prompting participation from other African countries, has given it a more global appeal.
The Governors Ball, Green Carnival, Black Music Festival, and increased participation in Cultural carnival and prize monies are innovations that have brought a lot of verve and panache to the carnival since Governor Ayade took over in 2015.
He has also increased the participation of more states in the main carnival and expanded the Carnival Village where the public go to unwind throughout the month-long period of the fiesta, while the locals and tourists go there to shop for Christmas.
The governor in his quest to introduce more innovations sponsored Carnival Calabar contingents to carnivals in countries such as Egypt, China, Brazil and the world acclaimed Nothinghill Carnival among others. This, in no small measure, has helped the organizers of the Carnival Calabar to garner even more experience and apply same in Carnival Calabar.

For most tourists, Carnival Calabar & Calabar Festival is foremost in their calendar as the place to be every December and they can't trade that for anything else.

The security situation in the state has also received the governor's attention as he has set up a joint military task force on constant patrols in Calabar metropolis, ensuring that citizens can go about their duties without fear of molestation. Indeed, not many states in the country can boast of hosting such massive crowds every December without incidences of violence.

It is all of these innovations that have attracted tourists in droves to the Carnival Calabar & Festival. The Governor through the carnival has made Calabar a place to be every December. From his inexhaustible bank of ingenuity, Cross Riverians and indeed, the entire Nigeria and the world can expect more exciting fun ahead.

Effiong Ekpenyong is former Special Assistant to Governor Ben Ayade on Carnival Planning

Use that 20mb data bonus they dashed you and Google how to use ur brain. Calling Ayade a useless Governor when u know nothing about what is going on in the state.

Cross River under Ayade hasn’t borrowed a dime- CNPP

The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) says contrary to claims in a social media report, the Cross River State government under Governor Ben Ayade has not taken a single loan between 2015 and now.
The CNPP in a statement in Calabar, the Cross River state capital, said it has taken the pains to verify the veracity or otherwise of the allegation against Ayade and in the process made mind boggling discovery.
The statement signed by Castro Ezama, state publicity Secretary of CNPP said its visit to the Debt Management Office was an eye opener.
"Our visit to the Debt Management Office, Ministry Of Finance and Security and Exchange Commission shows clearly that Gov. Ayade can't borrow because our State is insolvent", the statement said.

Bayelsa farmers takes delivery of Ayade's rice seedlings 


The first batch of Cross River Rice Seedlings under the N3 billion order placed by the Rice Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) with the support of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), for the South South region has arrived Bayelsa.


The Chairman of Bayelsa State RIFAN, Mr Ezekiel Ogbianko confirmed the arrival of the seedlings in a telephone interview.


``Yes, we have taken delivery of rice seedlings from Cross River a few days ago and we have started planting, ‘’ he said.


He, however, said that the details of the transactions between Bayelsa government and Cross River government of RIFAN were not disclosed to the state RIFAN.


``We do not know much about the transactions but they brought the seedlings to us and asked us to start planting, ‘’ he said.


It would be recalled that, Gov. Ben Ayade of Cross River recently disclosed that RIFAN had placed N10.8 billion order for the supply of rice seedlings from the state’s automated rice seedling factory to the southern states.


Ayade, who stated this during the recent flag-off of wet season rice farming for 2019 in Calabar, said that the state would also provide all the seedlings support services to the enable the states succeed.


``This reflects a full realisation of the vision for a rice seeds and seedlings factory in Cross River,’’ he said.


According to him, other support services offered by the factory include mechanisation support and planting services


The governor added that, other Niger Delta states were already lining up for the seedlings.


“The payment for the supply is not done by individual farmer or state, but coordinated under the RIFAN- CBN program, so that is the way to handle it. 


``Before we make a supply to a state, we receive an order from RIFAN, go to that state, do a valuation of the preparedness of the people and farmers to receive the seedlings.


``We then have a list of all the potential recipient farmers and on the basis of that, we compute that into our system and know the quantity that will be loaded to a particular state,”  Ayade said.

This is how Obudu looks now at night. Gov @senatorbenayade has given the city a face-lift. The pictures are some completed portion of the Mfon-obudu road which at a point was christened 'Ayade dust'. Today, it has become Ayade's magic.

Gov Ayade wont be distracted by blackmail- Aide


An aide to Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River state, Mr. Christian Ita, has said that no amount of blackmail will sway the governor from accomplishing his goal of turning around the economy of the state via his Industrialisation policy.
Ita who is Governor Ayade's Chief Press Secretary and Senior Special Assistant on Media stated this in a statement issued in Calabar on Friday.
He decried the negative spin being given to the government's policy of acquiring land to establish farms across the 18 local government areas of the state, describing it as cheap blackmail.
According to Ita, it became imperative to establish new farms and expand existing ones in order to feed the Agro-industries built by the Ayade-led administration.
"The feed mill in Calabar for instance , has yellow maize as its main raw material, thus requiring the establishment of a yellow maize farm. The same goes for the 30000 tons cocoa processing plant in Ikom. The current cocoa output in the state cannot meet the installed capacity of the plant, hence the need to expand existing cocoa farms and establish new ones.
"When govenor Ayade started the industrialization crusade, there were doubting Thomases who said they would not believe until they touch the wound. Today, in their very eyes, the ultra modern Ikom cocoa processing plant, ultra modern vitaminised Ogoja rice mill, Africa's first ever ultra modern rice seeds and seedling factory, CalaNoddles factory, Calachika Chicken processing plant, Garment factory among others have all berthed on the realm of reality", Ita said.
Ita said Ayade's traducers will not succeed in what he described as their "wicked, mindless and unconscionable blackmail against a working governor".
He said the present attempt to scuttle the agricultural policy of the government will fail like others, adding, “every profession has its ethics and limits. To turn truth upside down or to use journalism as a platform to hurt people because you have a request that is not met must have its legal consequences.
"Ayade remains solidly committed to decoupling the economy of the state from over dependence on oil-fuelled monthly federal allocation and no amount of blackmail will deter him from this noble objective.

Me too, I don't get why it would be an offense not to comply I'd imagine it's just a threat though

Gov Ayade declares Green Holiday for planting of one million trees

Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade has declared July 30th every year, starting from this year, as a public holiday for the planting of trees in a ceremony known as the Green Carnival.
A statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Ita, quoted the governor as explaining that setting aside a day for tree planting “underscores our readiness for the redd+ and commitment to forest conservation and management.”
The governor, who disclosed that one million trees will be planted during this year’s Green Carnival, said the exercise is also aimed at addressing the challenge of urban deforestation.
The event which is to take place simultaneously across the 18 local government areas of The state “is one of the measures to tackle global warming, deforestation and climate change as well as to also drive home our commitment to the implementation of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)on the Superhighway,” the statement quoted the governor further.
He expressed the optimism that the state’s forest cover, which represents 58 percent of Nigeria’s forest cover, will through the Green Carnival, grow to 68 percent.
He pledged that the Urban Green Canopy Calabar initiative will sustain Calabar as the greenest city in Nigeria and Cross River as the greenest state.
Consequently, all schools, homes, ministries, government agencies and departments, banks, hospitals and all business premises must plant new trees.
Subsequently it will be an offence not to plant a tree on that day, the statement added.

Ayade and the resonances of industrialization

By Linus Obogo


His herald in 2015 as governor of Cross River State, was akin to the ascension of the biblical redeemer, as foretold by John the Baptist. He would make every crooked path straight.
Others before him literally cleared the way and heralded his coming as a system purifier, one who would create the pathway to an economic Eldorado by recalibrating the economic architecture of the state through rapid industrialization.
While others saw what was unachievable, Governor Ben Ayade came as one who saw the invisible, striving to achieve the impossible from what was hitherto unattainable.
And like a man on a redemption mission, Ayade, since his assumption of office as governor, has been levelling knolls and filling valleys across the state, all in a bid to alter the ugly economic landscape of the past.
From the rocky mountain of Obudu to the rain forest of Ikom down to the creeks of Bakassi, are unrelenting beehive of industrialization activities.
Call him an eager beaver, if you like, and you won’t be wrong, ever in a hurry to deliver on his democratic promises to his people.
From the garment factory, Rice seeds and seedlings multiplication factory, Calabar Pharmaceutical factory, the 21 megawatts power plant, the Yakurr toothpick factory, the cocoa processing factory in Ikom, the ultramodern vitaminized rice mill in Ogoja, the state-of –the-art British/Canadian school in Obudu, the West Africa Teachers’ Teachers’ Continuing Training Institute at advanced stages of completion in Biase are several of Ayade’s huge strides in walking his talk.
In what is akin to squeezing water from a rock, Governor Ayade, in spite of the shoestring finances of the state, is soldiering on with projects that could only have been contemplated by states with deep pockets and humongous allocations.
Obviously punching above his weight in an effort to put the future in the hands of his people, having put money in their pockets in his first term, huge capital projects continue to dot the landscape, raising questions as to the source of funding for such undertakings. Such projects as to the 143kilometer Mfum-Yala-Bekwarra-Obudu-Obanliku ranch dual carriage road, the dualization of the 15kilometre Calabar Odukpani federal road; the ongoing construction of 6000 birds per day chicken processing plant called Calachika, the noodles plant also under construction, among others remain the undeniable imprimatur of a thinking and visionary leader.
While these legacy projects may not have gone unnoticed locally, resonances of the governor’s unremitting effort at making Cross River an industrial hub continues to send deafening echoes beyond the shores.
During his courtesy visit to Governor Ayade in June, awestruck United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Regional Director to ECOWAS and Nigerian regional office, Dr. Jean Bakole, could hardly veil his excitement at the industrial revolution happening in Cross River, a boom in industrialization with an impending boon for the citizenry.
The UNIDO chief who is not a known cheerleader had more than an encouraging and inspiring word for the governor, describing his industrialization policy as a model for Africa.
Bakole who has trotted the continent evangelizing African leaders on industrialization, besides his impression of what Ayade is doing to etch an economic future for Cross Riverians, said the governor's vision was in tandem with that of UNIDO for Africa.
"I think I have been to 44 African countries and my last posting was in Ethiopia. What I saw here in Cross River is exactly what the Ethiopian government is doing. Two years ago, I went to the garment factory in Ethiopia and what I saw at the Ethiopian garment factory is exactly what the Governor is doing here," he said.
Committed, focused and dedicated leadership sure begets success. And if success is not a mere abstraction, but something measurable and tangible, then Bakole could not be more unsparing of accolades for a governor who has made ‘Digital’ his moniker for his rare feats and determination in diversifying the state’s economy through industrialization.
"We just visited a number of industrial initiatives, including the garment factory, integrated Agro industries, pharmaceutical factory. It is absolutely impressive to see this kind of innovative projects which shows clearly that when a leader is committed, everything can be done.”
Like a lone voice wailing stridently in the wilderness, Bakole wondered why the federal government dallies in handholding the governor in his pursuit of economic liberation for not just the people of Cross River, but for other Nigerians residing in the state who will benefit from several of his initiatives.
While vowing UNIDO's readiness to partner and support the state, the Regional Director threw a challenge to the federal government: "If the Governor continues like this, and gets the support at the federal level, this state is going to be the mirror of innovative industrial development activity in the country.”
In order that the state achieves its mirror and a reflection of innovative industrial development, Bakole volunteered UNIDO’s commitment: "I will like to encourage it and I will like to on behalf of UNIDO clearly indicate that we are going to partner with the governor, we are going to support him, we are going to mobilize a number of investors because to do this kind of investment, we have to recognize that without it, we cannot move ahead but we need a very good management and I think His Excellency shows that he has a vision."
Insisting that Ayade was already on the way to achieving one of the goals of Sustainable Development Goals, the UNIDO Regional Director was no doubt prognostic that his industrialization policy will go a long way in addressing issues of poverty and unemployment.
"I can see his commitment to move ahead with the development agenda of the state to address the issues of poverty, to provide jobs for youths and ensure better life for the people of Cross River and also to support the development of the entire nation of Nigeria," he said.
On the state’s special economic zone, the Ayade Industrial Park, still awaiting the federal government’s official certification, Bakole had this to say: I told to my staff if I go to Calabar and I don’t have the opportunity to visit the Calabar special economic zone, it means my mission has no relevance. I have to go that special economic zone and know if it is the state’s initiative.
I said we must come to Calabar and see why they decided to set up this big special economic zone initiative.
“The industrial park development which I see is a new model. That is what I call eco-industrial park. we want to check the challenges and opportunities available and like I told His Excellency to also see how we can use the industrial initiative, design it in a way that will ensure that we move ahead together with the state to actualize your vision.”
Lauded as peerless in ideas, innovations and vision, Ayade’s quest to make Cross River a leading light in the comity of states in Nigeria is poised for cross pollination from UNIDO following the commitment from the Regional Director. “I’m here to thank the commitment of your government and that we are here to support you, support your vision to make the state one of the best, most industrialized in the country and I if this is the way you are moving, already a step ahead, you are exactly what everybody should do now in the country. This is the time of the industrial point zero because we are in the first stage of industrial revolution.”
While Governor Ayade may not have had a whiff of the UNIDO roadmap launched in 2015 for an industrialized Africa, he had long begun its implementation without knowing it from the first day he was sworn in. This, however, did not go unnoticed by Jean Bakole.
“What you are doing is in line with the road map we launched in 2015 for Africa and I can say that you are on the right path and if you must move ahead, you have to be more aggressive and to do so, you must create the enabling environment with the right incentive attractable to investors.”
Like the saying that a good product advertises itself, Bakole was not alone in thumping up Ayade for his industrialization strides.
Following on the heels of public acknowledgement by the UNIDO Regional Director, Task Team Leader, World Bank and Federal Government Assisted Agro-Process, Productivity Enhancement and Livelihood Improvement Support Project (APPEAL) for youths and physically challenged women, Dr. Salua Schue, could not agree more that Ayade is taking Cross River on a journey to economic Eldorado.
“This investment exemplifies the digital technology for agriculture. This is what we call precision agriculture. State of the art of modern agricultural practice in Africa. Again, I say this is amazing. I will say this is very excellent. This is a silent revolution that he has started and I must commend him for this vision," Schue volunteered after being wowed by the sheer technological sophistication of the rice seeds and seedlings multiplication plant.
The rice seedlings multiplication factory which is a blend of the governor’s ingenuity and technological adaptation is already supplying seedlings to states in the South South and others in the north under the CBN/RIFAN scheme is a marvel, prompting Schue’s complimentary verdict.
"Usually when we talk about modern agriculture, it is either you go to Europe or Asia before you can see it, but now it is here with us in Nigeria. I will describe this as an excellent investment that will actually transform the agricultural space in Nigeria and also in Africa. I will say that the APPEAL project in the bank will be working with His Excellency on the rice project as well as the rice value chain. We will also be supporting the government on the cocoa value chain and poultry project."
While the governor is determined to best his effort with more industrialization projects aimed at taking the state out of the woods, coupled with the commitment of the international organisations to lend their support, it is left to be seen when the federal government will take a cue from institutions such as UNIDO and the World Bank to complement his energy in his drive to ramp up the economy of the state.
For Ayade, a proponent of intellectual money, he can ill afford to stand with his hands akimbo, waiting endlessly for a federal government whose actions and inactions have literally reduced Cross River to an orphan while the rest of the confederating states luxuriate in opulence from the same commonwealth. While the discrimination goes on, his big ambition and the desire to achieve the impossibilities remains unquenchable.

Obogo is Deputy Chief Press Secretary/Speech writer to Governor Ayade

Lol Local man is confused

Ayade decries renewed communal clashes, killings


Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has warned warring communities in the state to sheath their swords or face the wrath of government.

The governor described as unacceptable, the renewed hostilities in Abi local government area of the state.

The warning is contained in a release signed by Mr.Christian Ita, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

It quoted the governor as lamenting the renewed hostilities between Usumutong and Ebom communities in Abi local government area.

"It is heart-rending to note that at a  time government is working on consolidating the prevailing peace in Cross River, some communities have chosen to go back to the trenches", Ayade rued.

The release further quoted Professor Ayade as asking the warring communities to tow the path of peace by ceasing hostilities.

"While security personnel have been mobilized to the troubled communities to de-escalate the crisis, i hereby call on the warring sides to halt every act of agression.

“Government will not view with kindness further loss of lives and properties occassioned by avoidable communal crisis anywhere in the state", the governor warned.

Ayade committed to peace in Cross River- Hon.Orim


Chidi Onyemaizu


Hon.Martin Orim, Chief of Staff to the Cross River State governor, has spoken of the governor, Professor Ben Ayade's commitment to the security of lives and property of Cross Riverians in all parts of the state.

Hon.Orim spoke when he received "General" Iron, leader of Boki ex-agitators, Boki Freedom Fighters, in his office Friday.

He disclosed that "General" Iron was in his office as part of the effort to consolidate prevailing peace in the state.

The Chief of Staff expressed optimism that with the governor's efforts at industrializing the state which is aimed at creating job opportunities, Cross River Youths, in no time will be gainfully employed.

On his part, "General" Iron explained that the ex- agitators are now partners in moving the state forward and are working towards a secured and peaceful Cross River.

Mediators-Chief Mathias Ake and Mr.Billy Enyia-were present at the meeting.

Garment Factory Task Force To Launch New Productivity Guideline

In line with the determination of the Cross River State Government to enhance the productivity of the garment factory, a new directional policy is in the making.
Barrister RoseMary Archibong, the Chairman Task Force on Garment Factory, made the disclosure at a meeting with management of the facility in Calabar.

Archibong, who is the immediate past Commissioner for Information, said the new strategy is to reposition this factory for optimal production and to generate the much needed revenue to make this factory sustainable and competitive.

According to Archibong, the new modus operandi is being put in place with the Central Bank Governor's directive on the Military/Paramilitary to execute Order 003 and patronize local Textile and Garment Factories.

As a Nigerian textile factory with a vision to expand to the West African and global market, we are determined to take advantage of this Federal Government policy and receive full patronage, insisted the Chairman.

While commending the current management of the garment factory for its efforts, immediate past Commissioner for power Mr Thomas Udam urged the workers to put in more efforts for optimum customer satisfaction.

"The Governor has done a lot by providing this magnificent factory for you all to be direct beneficiaries by working here, therefore the best you can do is to put in your best efforts and to make sure that customers that come here get optimum satisfaction."

After the interactive forum, the task force also took an inspection tour of facilities at the factory,
End.

By Eme Offiong.

Igbo people of south-east Nigeria resident in Cross River State have resolved to partner with Governor Ben Ayade on his Industrialization drive.
Ugorji Nwabueze, the President of Ohaneze Ndigbo Cross River chapter, made the resolution known in a statement shortly after the associations quarterly meeting in Calabar, the capital city of the southern Nigerian State.

He said that members of the socio-cultural group were willing to partner with Governor Ayade on the Deep Seaport project to ensure its maximum utilization when completed.

Nwabueze, who is also a legal practitioner, stated we, at this point, enjoin the Governor to partner with Ndigbo in his industrialization drive especially in the Deep Sea Port project. We restate our commitment and willingness to partner with the state government to promote commerce and industry”.

“We are industrious as a people and we know Professor Ben Ayade is moving the state to the next level through his industrialization drive and we will not hesitate to give our all in making that dream a reality, the leader noted.
Cordiality

The president also commended the people of Cross River for what he described as the gesture and magnanimity of the host communities over the cordial relationship and mutual cooperation existing between the hosts and Ndigbo”.

Ohaneze Ndigbo, he stated, was appreciative of the good gesture of the Governor when he attended the 2018 Igbo Day celebration and the 28th Anniversary of the Leadership of Sir Emmanuel Ezenwenyi, the Eze-Igbo and father of Igbo in Cross River.
We sincerely thank you for fulfilling some of the promises made to Ndigbo. The Igbo people are firmly united under the apex umbrella body and remain indivisible with the sole aim of working in harmony to promote peaceful existence among member unions, he assured.

Revealed: Ayade never met with HOLGAs

Sources close to Heads of Local Governments Administration (HOLGA) in Cross River state have described as hogwash, reports circulating in the social media to the effect that Governor Ben Ayade has held a series of meetings with them over local government funds.

Multiple sources close to the HOLGAs stated that contrary to the misleading social media reports, no dime in form of local government allocation from the federal government has entered accounts of local governments in the state since the NFIU policy was introduced.
"Its not true. No kobo has been received by any local government in Cross River since the NFIU was introduced to ensure the so called financial autonomy of the local governments. I don't know if the situation is peculiar to only the PDP controlled states, but many states controlled by the PDP are are yet to receive an alert in our accounts", findings revealed.

Sources within HOLGA ranks also spoke in a similar vein.They equally revealed that Governor Ayade did not at anytime hold meetings with them over council fund or sought for such meetings.

"It amused me when i saw the report in one of these social media platforms. We have not received any allocation from the federal government and His Excellency ,Professor Ben Ayade never held meetings with us or requested for a meeting. Rather, it was HOLGA that  on two occasions requested  for a meeting with him which he turned it down, asking us to face our work instead. I wonder why some people relish fake report," an insider source said.

Another simply dismissed the report with the wave of the hand. "Let them produce video or picture footage showing HOLGA's meetings with Professor Ayade to convince their readers. Of course, there was no meeting with him.The reports should rather be that Ayade rebuffed HOLGA because he indeed refused to meet with us," he said.

Ohanaeze lauds Ayade's industrialisation drive




Apex Igbo socio-Cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Cross River State Chapter, has commended Governor Ben Ayade on his industrialisation drive, promising to work with him to ensure its actualisation.
The association also congratulated him on his re-election and enjoined him to see his second coming as an opportunity to better the lives of the citizenry.
In statement signed by the President and Secretary, Ugorji Nwabuez, Esq, and Prince Alozie Uhochukwu respectively, after its second quarterly meeting held at Gomex Plaza, Calabar, the organisation said the present administration has demonstrated enough good will and readiness to work with Ndigbo in the last four years.
The statement read in part: "We enjoin Your Excellency to partner with Ndigbo in his industrialization drive especially in the Deep Sea Port project to ensure maximum utilization on completion. We restate our commitment and willingness to partner with the state government to promote commerce and industry.
"We use this opportunity to congratulate the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Prof Sen Ben Ayade, and Deputy Gov Ivara Esu on their re-election and subsequent swearing-in for the second term.
"His overwhelming support at the poll is a demonstration of the love the electorate has for him and we are optimistic that his second coming would bring more smiles on the people
"The organization deeply appreciates the good gesture of HE Ben Ayade by attending the Ohanaeze Day Celebration and the 28thAnniversary of the Leadership of Eze Sir E. A Ezenwenyi, the Eze-Igbo and father of Igbo in Cross River, which was held on November 24, 2018 at Abraham Ordia Stadium.
"We sincerely thank you for fulfilling some of the promises made to Ndigbo. We are indeed very grateful."
The organisation, made up all the affiliate unions from the 18 local government areas of the state, said it remians grateful to the host communities for the cordial relationship and mutual cooperation existing between the hosts and Ndigbo.
The statement enjoined members to remain firmly, united and indivisible with sole aim of working in harmony among member unions.
Sent from my iPhone

In Cross River, Ayade gives teaching a quantum leap with TCTC 


By Chidi Onyemaizu


The wet whether did nothing to dampen his bursting energy. So, on this particular rainy morning,Governor Ben Ayade defied the inclement whether, hopped into his official vehicle.Destination? A world class Teachers retraining facility,the West African Teachers Continous Training College, TCTC, springing up in Biase.

Biase is located in the southern fringe of the state and the home local government of Deputy Governor, Ivara Ejemot Esu.Ayade and Esu are both erudit scholars; professors of different disciplines but united in their grit resolve to reinvent their darling state, Cross River.

Just before his arrival at the project site, the drizzling rain had given way to a blazing sun, almost at a baking point.

But even in the sweltering sun,there was this disarming normality in the manner he methodically inspected progress of work at the project site.

Occassionally, as if the hot sun itself was a soothing balm sort of ,he let out a broad smile, one hand up pointing at a something that caught his attention.
Soon, there was a crowd of heads- those of his Deputy, aides and  Enginners working on the site-poring over a piece of paper, probably a design.
And at that moment,one could notice him nooding in affirmation of whatever it was that was explained to him, his cherubic face flushing with a glint of inward satisfaction.
Biase was awe-struck.And this told boldly on the faces of hundreds of ecstatic and cherring indigens who thronged the project site to catch a glimpse of the governor and also of their son, Professor Esu.
"This governor is a wonder man ooo; person never see this kin thing before.Na forest be dey here ooo.How he take build this kin fine school here wonder me ooo", a middle aged man who could no longer hide his joy exclaimed loudly in pidgin English, to no one in particular.
Another bewildered indigen, a young mother with a sleeping baby strapped on her back who claimed she teaches in a private primary school in the area said she never believed Ayade meant business when the site was being cleared early this year.
"I was one of those who doubted the possibility of this College.I thought government was not serious but i have been proven wrong.This College is one of the best things that has happened to Biase and people like me who want to be professional teachers", she said.
There was every reason for the people of Biase and indeed all Cross Riverians to marvel.Just three months back,the site where the TCTC now stands was ground zero, barren.But now a towering, world class edifice dedicated to remoulding teachers across the West African sub-region uncompromisingly announces itself as one of the undeniable efforts of Professor Ayade to reposition education and the teaching profession in Cross River.
Professor Ayade is not magisterial as wont leaders who wield enormous powers.At Biase he again demonstrated that, and lived up to his billing as "Project Manager" which at his second term inauguration he said he had become as he for four hours, without a minute pause, moved from one structure to the other,personally inspecting them and occasionally handing down modifications instructions to the contractors handling the project.
One of the unique features of TCTC is that when operational, it will have a provost who will superintend its affairs.The Teachers College is also modelled like a post graduate school.
"We already have the provost.The College is a little higher. It is more like a post graduate school because you have to have a degree in Education and you have to be teaching already for you to qualify to come here", the governor said.
"You don’t have to be teaching in Nigeria, West Africa.In fact, anywhere you are on earth and you have a teacher that wants to be trained, he can come here to actualize his or her ambition of becoming a qualified professional",he further stressed.
The College, according to Professor Ayade, will be technology and ICT driven in order to bake qualified teacher, well equipped for 21st century teaching.
"We are building a world class West Africa Teachers Continues Training Centre to cater to all teachers within the whole of West Africa sub region and to start the regeneration of ethics, morality, quality of research, science and technology including ICT in a modern concept in line with 21st century.
"The teachers themselves will be taught the use of ICT to facilitate training with digital touch screens. Cross River will lead the digital world. As we are driving agriculture as a leading state in agriculture, so are we going to take education to the zenith. I think that when I'm done, Cross Riverians will know that I came in prepared and that I had a clear idea of where I was coming from and where I’m going to. Nigerians will be surprised what we are going to produce out of this  College, Professor Ayade stressed.

As a sub-regional teachers retraining school that is poised to deliver quality, the frontiers of the College in terms of recruitment of lecturers will be widened to look beyond the shores of Nigeria.

"This school represents the whole essence of our being, that as professors, we want to deal with education from it roots and take us back to where Nigeria's foundation was. That’s why most of the lecturers that will come to teach here are not necessarily going to be Nigerians. Our target is competence, so whether they are Indians, Pakistanis, or Ghanaians or whatever country they come from provided they are the best in the subject matter, we will recruit them", says the governor.

Cross River is the only state in Nigeria superintend by two professors as governor and deputy governor respectively.It is therefore, not a huge surprise that accessing quality education is one of the top priorities of the Ayade administration.According to him the classy TCTC which will start formal academic activities in September was set to revolutionize the teaching profession in Nigeria.

"I am a governor and a professor, my deputy is also a professor and we believe that the right thing to do is to deal with the issues of quality of teaching thoroughly. We believe strongly that the educational system in Nigerian is almost collapsing, so Cross River State is beginning a renaissance. That is why we are setting up this Teachers Continuous Training College (TCTC)", the governor informs.

In the sprawling TCTC which is about 75 per cent completed,  there are a demonstration senior and junior secondary schools and  an Amphitheatre for recreation for the teachers undergoing training or retraining as the case may be. There are also science labs for practicals

The idea of the demonstration secondary school and science labs within the College is to constantly subject the teachers to teaching practicals.

There are also tastefully designed hostels for the teachers, a luxurious duplex for the Provost and beautiful quarters for the lecturers. 

Meanwhile, the TCTC has already attracted the attention of the Governing Council and Management of National Teachers Institute (NTI).The Institute has declared its intention to train teachers from across the nation at the college starting from September.

The Director General of NTI, Prof. Garba Azare made this known at the 6th meeting of the 8th Governing Council held recently in Abuja. 

He said the curriculum and design of TCTC fits the capacity building model of NTI nationwide.


Chidi Onyemaizu is SA Print Media to Governor Ayade

Ayade promises speedy completion of teachers’ college, as NTI seeks use of facility

Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade says his administration chose to establish the Teachers Continuous Training College (TCTC), Biase currently under construction so as to revolutionize the teaching profession in Nigeria.
The college, according to Professor Ayade will commence academic activities in September and commended contractors handling the project for a job well done.

This is even as the college is already attracting interests with the Governing Council and Management of National Teachers Institute (NTI) declaring the intention to train teachers from across the nation at the college starting from September.

The Director General of NTI, Prof. Garba Azare made this known at the 6th meeting of the 8th Governing Council held on Thursday in Abuja.
He said the curriculum and design of TCTC fits the capacity building model of NTI nationwide.
Meanwhile, governor Ayade who was speaking during an inspection tour of the College to assess the progress of work said the TCTC will have West Africa as its catchment area.
The focus, he said, will be on the continuous training of teachers using advanced technology and teaching manual.

"I am a governor and a professor, my deputy is also a professor and we believe that the right thing to do is to deal with the issue of quality of teaching thoroughly. We believe strongly that the educational system in Nigerian is almost collapsing, so Cross River State is beginning a renaissance. That is why we are setting up this Teachers Continuous Training College (TCTC)", Professor Ayade said.
The Cross River state governor said the Teachers College is a world class training and retraining facility whose catchment area extends beyond Nigeria.

"We are building a world class West Africa Teachers Continues Training Centre to cater to all teachers within the whole of West Africa sub region and to start the regeneration of ethics, morality, quality of research, science and technology including ICT in a modern concept in line with 21st century", Professor Ayade stressed.

He explained that because of the expanded frontiers of the College, recruitment of lecturers will not be restricted to Nigeria.

"This school represents the whole essence of our being, that as professors, we want to deal with education from it roots and take us back to where Nigeria's foundation was. That’s why most of the lecturers that will come to teach here are not necessarily going to be Nigerians. Our target is competence, so whether they are Indians, Pakistanis, or Ghanaians or whatever country they come from provided they are the best in the subject matter, we will recruit them.”
He said that his administration is taking education in Cross River to a level of digitization to ensure quality output.

"The College comes in form of train the trainers concept. The teachers themselves will be taught the use of ICT to facilitate training with digital touch screens. Cross River will lead the digital world. As we are driving agriculture as a leading state in agriculture, so are we going to take education to the zenith. I think that when I'm done, Cross Riverians will know that I came in prepared and that I had a clear idea of where I was coming from and where I’m going to. Nigerians will be surprise what we are going to produce out of this College.”

Ayade's Industrial Revolution Attracting Global Commendation

By Offiong Onoyom

The attestation by the World Bank that Governor Ben Ayade has embarked upon a silent revolution in agriculture in Nigeria spells a far-reaching positive impact.It underscores the global acclaim that has trailed the governor's efforts in that direction.

No other person than Dr. Salua Schue, Task Team leader, World Bank and Federal Government Assisted Agro-process, Productivity Enhancement and Livelihood Improvement Support Projects (APPEAL) for youths, physically challenged women, described Ayade's feat as revolutionary and second to none in sub-Saharan Africa.It is a fitting attestation, coming from the right quarters. 


Schue, shortly after a tour of facilities at the Ayade Industrial Park which houses the Cross River Noodles Factory, Cross River Feed Mill, Rice Seeds and Seedlings Factory and other agro value chain projects, in Calabar, doffed his hart for the Cross River number one citizen. 


The senior Economist at the Bank said he was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the factories and the equipment on ground, noting that the park was capable of transforming the state's economy.


“They call Governor Ayade the digital governor. This investment exemplifies the digital technology for agriculture. This is what we call precision agriculture. State of the art of modern agricultural practices in Africa.


"Again I say this is  amazing. I will say this is very excellent. I told His Excellency that this is a silent revolution that he has started and I must commend him for this vision," he said after the inspection.


Schue marveled at what he saw at the facilities that hitherto could only be found in Europe. "Usually when we talk about modern agriculture, it is either you go to Europe or Asia before you can see it, but now it is here with us in Nigeria. I will describe this as an excellent investment that will actually transform the agricultural space in Nigeria and also in Africa.I will say that the APPEAL project in the bank will be working with His Excellency on the rice project as well as the rice value chain. We will also be supporting the government on the cocoa value chain and poultry project."


 He equally expressed optimism that there will be huge employment opportunities for lots of people at the poultry which has hatchery where the youths can grow broilers and then sell to the factory that will require huge birds to meet up its 6,000 birds capacity per day for processing.


The Governor himself is not resting on his oars as he had recently approved the release of N2.5 billion for acquisition of equipment, establishment of a mechanization and cartelization canters with at least 20 hectares of arable land for cultivation in each of the three senatorial districts of the state.


According to the governor, "the effort is to allow access to free land to would-be farmers as well as complement effort of the state's industrialization efforts,  particularly in the area of agriculture which is aimed at creating wealth among the teeming unemployed youths and children."


These efforts have also caught the attention of the United Nations Industrial Development Organistion (UNIDO) Regional Director to ECOWAS and Nigerian regional office, Dr. Jean Bakole. Recently he also came visiting and gave kudos the governor for his industrialization policy, describing it as a model for Africa and noting that the governor's vision was in tandem with that of UNIDO for Africa.


"I think I have been to 44 African countries and my last posting was in Ethiopia. What I saw here in Cross River is exactly what the Ethiopian government is doing. Two years ago, I went to the garment factory in Ethiopia and what I saw at the Ethiopian garment factory is exactly what the Governor is doing here," he said. 


 Bakole was so impressed with Ayade's determination to diversify Cross River's economy through industrialisation, that he said a committed leadership breeds success.


 "We just visited a number of industrial initiatives, including the garment factory, integrated Agro industries,  pharmaceutical factory. It is absolutely impressive to see this kind of innovative projects which shows clearly that when a leader is committed everything can be done.


"If the Governor continues like this, and gets the support at the federal level, this state is going to be the mirror of innovative industrial development activity in the country.


"I will like to encourage it and I will like to on behalf of UNIDO clearly indicate that we are going to partner with the governor, we are going to support him, we are going to mobilize a number of investors because to do this kind of investment, we have to recognize that without it, we cannot move ahead but we need a very good management and I think His Excellency shows that he has a vision."


Apart from pledging the support of UNIDO, the Regional Director believes that the industrialisation policy will go a long way to addressing issues of poverty and unemployment. 


"I can see his commitment to move ahead with the development  agenda of the state to address the issues of poverty, to provide  jobs for youths and ensure better life for the people of Cross River and also to support  the development of the entire nation of Nigeria," he said


Former governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, has equally added his voice to the growing praise that the industrialization strides of his successor has attracted in recent times. This was after he visited Africa's first vitaminized rice mill in Ogoja.


Imoke described it as a phenomenal project and praised Ayade's commitment to increasing local rice production.


Governor Ayade himself acknowledged the fact that "this is the first vitaminized rice mill in Africa. It is the latest technology and an adoption of the most sophisticated technique, part of which is my own intellectual inputs."


Already the rice revolution has started yielding billions of naira for the state with the recent order of rice seedlings by the CBN through RIFAN to the tune of 10.8billion to be supplied to states across the federation. 


Aside from the acclaimed agricultural revolution, the governor is also making efforts to breathe life into the Obudu Ranch Resort by opening accesd into it through the construction of the super highway and the Obudu International Airport.


Also, the Bakassi housing scheme has been completed and ready for commissioning. All these have not gone unnoticed and the accolades can only spur the governor to remain focused and do more for the people of the state.

BREAKING: NTI to train teachers nationwide in TCTI, Biase

The Governing Council and Management of National Teachers Institute (NTI) will from September 2019 begin the train teachers from across the nation at the West African Teachers Continues Training College, (TCTC), being built by the Cross River State Government In Biase

The Director General of NTI, Prof. Garba Azare made this known at the 6th meeting of the 8th Governing Council held on Thursday (today) in Abuja.

He said the curriculum and design of TCTC fits the capacity building model of NTI nationwide.

TCTC is a new training institute conceived by Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prof Ben Ayade.

Construction work at the college is at an advanced stage.

BREAKING: NTI to train teachers nationwide in TCTI, Biase

The Governing Council and Management of National Teachers Institute (NTI) will from September 2019 begin the train teachers from across the nation at the West African Teachers Continues Training College, (TCTC), being built by the Cross River State Government In Biase

The Director General of NTI, Prof. Garba Azare made this known at the 6th meeting of the 8th Governing Council held on Thursday (today) in Abuja.

He said the curriculum and design of TCTC fits the capacity building model of NTI nationwide.

TCTC is a new training institute conceived by Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prof Ben Ayade.

Construction work at the college is at an advanced stage.

Ayade’s industrialization policy a model for African leaders -UNIDO


The United Nations Industrial Development Organistion (UNIDO) Regional Director to ECOWAS and Nigerian regional office, Dr. Jean Bankole, has described the industrialization policy of Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State as a model for Africa.

Bakole who was in Calabar, the state capital on a courtesy visit to the governor said he was impressed by Ayade's effort at industrializing the state, noting that the governor's vision was in tandem with that of UNIDO for Africa.

"I think I have been to 44 African countries and my last posting was in Ethiopia. What I saw here in Cross River is exactly what the Ethiopian government is doing. Two years ago, I went to the garment factory in Ethiopia and what I saw at the Ethiopian garment factory is exactly what the Governor is doing here," he said.

Commending Ayade's determination to diversify Cross River's economy through industrialisation, the UNIDO boss said committed leadership breeds success: "We just visited a number of industrial initiatives, including the garment factory, integrated Agro industries, pharmaceutical factory. It is absolutely impressive to see this kind of innovative projects which shows clearly that when a leader is committed everything can be done.”

Bankole expressed the optimism that the federal government would find a way to assist the state to fully actualise its industrialisation goals.
He pledged UNIDO's readiness to partner and support Cross River.

"If the Governor continues like this, and gets the support at the federal level, this state is going to be the mirror of innovative industrial development activity in the country.

"I will like to encourage it and I will like to on behalf of UNIDO clearly indicate that we are going to partner with the governor, we are going to support him, we are going to mobilize a number of investors because to do this kind of investment, we have to recognize that without it, we cannot move ahead but we need a very good management and I think His Excellency shows that he has a vision."

The UNIDO Regional Director maintained that Governor Ayade's industrialisation policy will go a long way to addressing issues of poverty and unemployment.
"I can see his commitment to move ahead with the development agenda of the state to address the issues of poverty, to provide jobs for youths and ensure better life for the people of Cross River and also to support the development of the entire nation of Nigeria," he said.

Cross River State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade, has explained why the state has become a safe haven for militants and kidnappers.

The governor was speaking in Calabar when the management of the Niger Delta Development Commission led by its acting Managing Director, Professor Nelson Brambaifa, paid him a courtesy visit.
He said, “It is sad that at the height of kidnapping and all the criminality in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe was mobilized to all the states except Cross River. So, all the militants now found Cross River a safe haven.

“This once peaceful, beautiful state suddenly became a safe haven for militants and kidnappers to inhabit and distort our complete sight.
“The basis was that there were no pipelines in Cross River. So, as a government, we now place a premium on oil over blood. Africa has never shown this kind of disdain to a weaker brother.”
He also berated NDDC for its unfair treatment of the state.
He said the story of the state in the NDDC “has been that of melancholy. We have been reduced to want in body, soul, and spirit.

“In sociology, any child who has very little and the other one has more, a mother is allowed to take from the one that has more and give to the one that has little.
“In NDDC, it is the states that have more money that are allocated bigger projects. It is not African. It is inhuman and inconsistent with the core principles of Kantianism that I know. In all honesty, we have structured society for aggressive rebellion.”

He, therefore, pleaded that the state be treated fairly, especially “when one considers the fact that we have a landmass of over 21,000 square kilometers, larger than the entire Niger Delta. Connecting two local government is larger than any state in the Niger Delta with international boundaries to over four countries with its attendant challenges. We have been excluded by the NDDC from its original philosophy of making a prosperity agenda for the region.”

Ayade spits fire: We want our oil wells back


In apparent frustration with the Federal Government’s neglect of the state, Cross River governor, Senator Ben Ayade has asked for the return of its 76 oil wells ceded to Akwa Ibom State in 2012 following the ruling of the Supreme Court.
Cataloguing what he described as unconscionable injustices meted out to the state by the Federal Government, Ayade listed the ceding of Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon, the ceding of the state’s 76 oil and the non-reimbursement of what the state has spent on federal roads as some instances of unfair treatment of the state.
The governor made his feelings known during a courtesy call on him by the commander of the joint military taskforce, Operation Delta Safe (ODS), Rear Admiral Akinjide Akinrinade.
He said the ceding of the oil-rich peninsula was illegal and therefore, the loss of oil wells was an act of gross injustice.
“Even the implementation of the Supreme Court judgement that emphasized clearly that Cross River must continue to enjoy stabilization support in perpetuity for the loss of oil well has since been stopped. We are tired and so we want our oil wells back,” he declared.
The governor also deplored the refusal by the Federal Government to admit members of a militant group, the Bakassi Strike Force into its amnesty programme after the state government facilitated their surrender of arms to the military.
His words: “It was even at the instance of your own (military) request that we came to the ultimate conclusion that we needed to grant amnesty. Sadly, shortly after the disarmament and demobilization exercise, the burden therefrom rests wholly on the shoulders of Cross River State. Now as you are moving into the rehabilitation and reintegration phase, here we are being called upon yet again to provide the financial support for it to be achieved.
“Let me send you a message to the National Security Adviser and indeed to Mr. President, to tell him that the people of Cross River State are watching with keen interest how other people who were granted amnesty in other states are responsibilities of Federal Government and how our own people have been allowed to gradually regress to where to left to embrace peace.
“Not even one person from the entire list has been taken by the Federal Government for any form of amnesty programme nor has a dime been paid to any of them. What has Cross River done wrong in this country? Please send this message to Mr. President that we want to know what Cross River has done wrong, particularly now that you have noticed that some camps are coming back to live again after the disarmament and demobilization”.
Continuing, he said: “Ordinary amnesty, Cross Riverians cannot benefit from it. Have oils well become everything? If it is oil wells, we have also issued a report showing oil deposits in Cross River both inland and offshore. How can a state that has a very extensive maritime boundary be told that it is not a littoral state? How can you grant amnesty to other states and give them international opportunities and exposures, bring them back, engage them and pay them monthly yet you exclude Cross Riverians? What have we really done wrong?
“You take our oil wells, take our land, we are not even in NDDC and ordinary amnesty you cannot provide for Cross River? We have been on our knees begging that we have found oil, can you give us discretional license to partner with a third party to do exploration and pay loyalties to government. Until now we have not gotten any response.”
The governor also expressed unhappiness that the state is yet to be reimbursed for interventions on federal roads even when other states have been reimbursed.
While pleading with President Buhari to assist the state survive and realisze its deep vision projects including the Bakassi Deep Seaport and the 274km superhighway, he pleaded that if the state has in any way offended the Federal Government, then the state should be forgiven.
According to the governor, “Cross River has come under so much abuse recently. Must they kill us because we are peaceful? If there is anything Cross River has done to the Federal Government, let the Federal Government forgive Cross River because these things have been there even before I assumed duty as governor.
He disclosed that the state was building an estate for the displaced people of Bakassi. The estate, he said will be ready in about a month.
Despite his frustration with the Federal Government, he promised to assist the Operation Delta Safe with N50 million.
Earlier, the Commander of Operation Delta Safe, Akirinade, lauded the governor for his commitment to peace, security and development of Cross River.
The Commander who appealed to the governor for support to ensure the rehabilitation of and reintegration of the militants in order to prevent them from regrouping, said: “Thanks to the strategic initiative of granting amnesty to the Bakassi Strike Force. Though the disarmament and demobilization was done successful, but the rehabilitation and reintegration which is the most critical phase is yet to be achieved, which is why I appeal to His Excellency to see to the fulfilment of this exercise.”

Ayade slams NDDC, says Commission unfair to Cross River

Cross River State Governor, Senator Ben Ayade has slammed the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its unfair treatment of the state.

Ayade voiced his disapproval of the Commission’s attitude towards the state in Calabar when the management of the Commission led by its acting Managing Director, Professor Nelson Brambaifa, paid him a courtesy call recently .
He said the story of the state in the NDDC “has been that of melancholy. We have been reduced to want in body, soul and spirit.

“In sociology, any child who has very little and the other one has more, a mother is allowed to take from the one that has more and give to the one that has little.

“In NDDC, it is the states that have more money that are allocated bigger projects. It is not African. It is inhuman and inconsistent with the core principles of Kantianism that I know. In all honesty we have structured a society for aggressive rebellion.”

He therefore, pleaded that the state be treated fairly, especially “when one considers the fact that we have a land mass of over 21,000 square kilometers, larger than the entire Niger Delta. Connecting two local government is larger than any state in the Niger Delta with international boundaries to over four countries with its attendant challenges. We have been excluded by the NDDC from its original philosophy of making a prosperity agenda for the region.

“It is so sad that at the height of kidnapping and all the criminality in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe was mobilized to all the states except Cross River. So, all the militants now found Cross River a safe haven. This once peaceful, beautiful state suddenly became safe haven for militants and kidnappers to inhabit and distort our complete sight. The basis was that there were no pipelines in Cross River. So, as a government we now place premium on oil over blood. Africa has never shown this kind of disdain to a weaker brother.”

Which one is Cross River don't have oil again? NDDC is called Niger Delta Development commission. It is for d development of Niger Delta states oil or not.

Ayade decries NDDC’s neglect of Cross River

Cross River State Governor, Senator Ben Ayade has called for a review of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) masterplan if the oil-rich Niger Delta region is to witness real growth.

Ayade stated this in Calabar when the management of the Commission led by its acting Managing Director, Professor Nelson Brambaifa, paid him a courtesy call recently .

According to the governor, very little has been achieved by way of development under the current masterplan.

He said the current masterplan even as inadequate as it is, has not been “implemented in truth, kind, action and in words.”

He therefore, called for a major review of the master plan to reflect the realities and the need of the states.

The governor also urged the Commission to deviate from the culture whereby governors in the region are not carried along when contracts are being awarded by the commission.

“As governor I have the superintending and overriding power over the land in Cross River which I hold in trust for the people.Therefore, by the provisions of the law, I have the powers to stop any project in this state. It is part of the constitutional provisions under the NDDC Act that the NDDC will have regular meetings with the various stakeholders including the governors that form part of the governing board.

“As I speak, I’m not aware of,nor have I received any official letter inviting me and my colleagues for a meeting. We are not interested in deciding who gets the job but we would ask our works department to be part of supervision to ensure that quality is adhered to at all times. I say this so that you don’t make the mistakes of the past.”

He decried the treatment of Cross River State by the Commission, saying the story of the state “has been that of melancholy. We have been reduced to want in body, soul and spirit.

“In sociology, any child who has very little and the other one has more, a mother is allowed to take from the one that has more and give to the one that has little.

“In NDDC, it is the states that have more money that are allocated bigger projects. It is not African. It is inhuman and inconsistent with the core principles of Kantianism that I know. In all honesty we have structured a society for aggressive rebellion.”

He therefore, pleaded that the state be treated fairly, especially “when one considers the fact that we have a land mass of over 21,000 square kilometers, larger than the entire Niger Delta. Connecting two local government is larger than any state in the Niger Delta with international boundaries to over four countries with its attendant challenges. We have been excluded by the NDDC from its original philosophy of making a prosperity agenda for the region.

“It is so sad that at the height of kidnapping and all the criminality in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe was mobilized to all the states except Cross River. So, all the militants now found Cross River a safe haven. This once peaceful, beautiful state suddenly became safe haven for militants and kidnappers to inhabit and distort our complete sight. The basis was that there were no pipelines in Cross River. So, as a government we now place premium on oil over blood. Africa has never shown this kind of disdain to a weaker brother.”
Sent from my iPhone

Judex Okoro, Calabar

Professor Ben Ayade of Cross River has again stated that he would implement the new N30,000 minimum wage once the Federal government releases a schedule for payment.

Speaking during a courtesy call on him by the newly-elected leadership of the State Executive Council of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), led by its Chairman, Comrade Ben Ukpep, Ayade assured that the welfare of workers remains sacrosanct in his administration.

He said: “For the new minimum wage, as soon as the schedule is worked out by the Federal government, I will ask us to reconvene and agree on the way forward because I believe that as a team and as family we can always find common ground and work it out.

“I have no intention not to implement the minimum wage because the salaries are too poor to carry you. So, I have no objection about payment of minimum wage.

“Don’t also forget that you have a responsibility to ask the Federal government to reduce its own side of 55 percent in the allocation formula.”

According to him, “Cross River is the 35th in the country in terms of allocation and the new minimum wage is paid, we will definitely get stuck to each other. So, we need to work together for its implementation.”

Commending the labour for its support for him during the governorship election, he said: “I have always said that I am committed to pay within the limit of our resources. I have no plan to retrench and will never sack because it’s not in my nature to do so. You need to agree with me on how the implementation will be done.

“Let me thank you for your massive support during my re-election. I must say that Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) was a major force to my overwhelming success at the poll and in reciprocating this gesture and as a show of gratitude, I will continue to work and cooperate with you as partner in progress for industrial harmony in the state.”

Earlier, Comrade Ukpepi congratulated the governor on his victory at the poll, describing his emergence as victory for the workers and ordinary Cross Riverians.

He promised that the organised labour would continue to partner the governor to develop the state.

New minimum wage: Ayade reaffirms commitment to implementation

By Nakanda Iyadim

Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade has again expressed his willingness to implement the new N30,000 minimum wage.
Ayade restated his commitment to the implementation of the new minimum wage when the new leadership of the State Executive Council of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), led by its Chairman, Comrade Ben Ukpepi paid him a courtesy visit recently.
The governor told the visiting Labour leaders that the welfare of workers remains sacrosanct under his administration.
“For the new minimum wage, as soon as the schedule is worked out by the Federal Government, I will ask us to reconvene and agree on the way forward because I believe that as a team and as family we can always find a common ground and work it out”, the governor said.
Continuing, he said: “I have no intention not to implement the minimum wage because the salaries are too poor to carry you. So, I have no objection about payment of minimum wage but don’t also forget that you have a responsibility to ask the federal government to reduce their own side of 55 percent in the allocation formula because if you take our state for instance, which is number 35th in the country in terms of allocation and the new minimum wage is paid, we will definitely get stuck to each other. So, we need to work together for its implementation.”
Pledging not to sack any worker to be able to pay the new minimum wage, the governor thanked labour for its support for him during governorshiop election.
“I have always said that I am committed to pay within the limit of our resources. I have no plan to retrench and will never sack because it’s not in my nature to do so. You need to agree with me on how the implementation will be done.
“Let me thank you for your massive support during my re-election. I must say that Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) was a major force to my overwhelming success at the poll and in reciprocating this gesture and as a show of gratitude, I will continue to work and cooperate with you as partner in progress for industrial harmony in the state.”

Professor Ayade said his victory at the polls was a product of his determination to reinvent the state.
The governor used the occasion to disclose his plans to breath life into the Obudu Ranch Resort, saying “even if you renovate the Ranch with gold, after five hours of a tortured journey from Calabar to the Ranch, it will be difficult to convince you to do a second trip. So, no matter what you do, the first challenge for any professional who is looking properly into dealing with the issue is to first and foremost address access to the ranch because when you get there beautifully without stress, you will love to come back again and again.”
He listed the construction of the superhighway and the Obudu International Airport as part of the plans to revamp the ranch "because the Bebi Airstrip is locked into a magnetic mountain, it has a very high accident rate. People are scared of flying into the airstrip.
“My plan now is to fix access to ranch properly and when the airport is ready alongside the superhighway, I will bring in Disney World as part of revamping the Ranch.”
Earlier, Comrade Ukpepi congratulated the governor on his victory at the polls describing it as victory for the workers and ordinary Cross Riverians.
The NLC chairman assured the governor that the organized labour will remain a strong pillar and committed partner to the development of the state.

Gov Ayade reappoints Asikpo, Ita as COP, CPS

The state governor, Senator (Prof) Ben Ayade has approved the reappointments of Mr Emmanuel E. Asikpo-Okon (JP) and Mr. Christian Ita as the State Chief of Protocol and Chief Press Secretary and Senior Special Assistant on Media.

The two appointments take effect immediately.

Signed
Aye Henshaw Jnr
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information

PDP Chairmen Celebrate Hon.Orim


By Chidi Onyemaizu


When the cap fits, there is no hesitation in celebrating the head on which it rests!

This was apparently the reason chapter chairmen of the People's Democratic Party, PDP from the 18 local government areas of Cross River State Wednesday converged at the residence of Hon.Martin Orim, Chief of Staff to governor Ben Ayade, to honour him.

Satisfied with his unwavering loyalty to his principal,Senator (Professor) Ayade,  and the manner he diligently discharged his duty in the last four years as Chief of Staff leading to his recent reappointment to the same position, the PDP chairmen presented Hon.Orim with meritorious service Award and urged him not to relent in his service to the state.

The party Chiefs congratulated the Chief of Staff on his reappointment, describing it as a product of hard work and selflessness.They also thanked Professor Ayade for the reappointment, saying the action showed that the Cross River State number one citizen rewards loyalty, hard work and competence.

Replying, the Chief of State said he was humbled by the award and kind words heaped on him by the PDP Chairmen, stressing that he has been further reinvigorated in his resolve to work harder and ensure the success of the Industrialisation and infrastructural goals of the Ayade administration.

"I lack words to describe how humbled i am by your visit and the conferment of this Award.But let me tell you this, you have further invigorated me to do more", Hon. Orim said.

Continuing, the Chief of Staff stated that his reappointment is not a tea party but a call for greater service."My reappointment by his Excellency is a call for higher service, for rededication to duty and i am totally committed to applying myself to the goals and vision of this government.Our Industrialisation and infrastructural drive are unprecedented in the annals of Cross River and I am delighted to be part of the crew that is taking Cross River to the promise land.I thank his Excellency for believing in me", he further said.

Hon.Orim who was first appointed Chief of Staff in 2015 used the opportunity to invite the PDP Chapter Chairmen and other stakeholders present at the event to his Thanksgiving mass coming up during the Obudu yam festival.

Among dignitaries present at the event include the newly elected Speaker of the Cross River state House of Assembly, Rt.Hon.Jones Eteng Williams and Hon.Christian Njar, member representing Etung constituency.