Negroid Haven

  • Home
  • Negroid Haven

Negroid Haven Information retail outlet that cover a handful of areas namely, entertainment, fashion, politics, economy, culture, religion, academics, health and sports.

Cross River Business Forum Applauds Otu’s Three-Year Record, Hails Development StridesThe Cross River Business Men's For...
07/06/2026

Cross River Business Forum Applauds Otu’s Three-Year Record, Hails Development Strides

The Cross River Business Men's Forum, a leading sociopolitical and economic interest group in the state, has commended Governor Bassey Otu for what it described as an impressive performance during his first three years in office, citing progress in governance, infrastructure, and economic revitalisation.

In a press statement made available to newsmen in Calabar, High Chief Onwe said the unnecessary criticism and fault-finding by some misguided persons stems from bele-aching and not based on sincere and neutral evaluation of the performance of the Governor in the last three years.

"In the past three years, His Excellency, Senator, Apostle, Prince Bassey Edet Otu has not only committed himself to only changing the infrastructural development of the state but economic landscape of the state which has significantly changed the lives of the people of the state.

"Our Sweet Prince has purposefully set standards and achieved lofty heights which no other administration has attained in recent times. In road construction and rehabilitation, educational advancement, agricultural mainstay, general infrastructural development and human capital enhancement which have all essentially restored the state to its pride of place in the comity of states."

He said the governor in his characteristic way has taken measures and steps in reaching all parts of the state in terms of development and he does it silently which is a mark of true leadership and statesmanship".

He said with the noble efforts so far undertaken by the governor, some persons who are not used to quality environment where excellence is the order of the day are busy wasting their energies in the name of criticising the governor.

"In the words of Henry Ford, ‘Quality means doing it right when no one is looking. Governor Otu is not someone who chases empty clout through propaganda but believes in silent transformation and leaving the result to speak for itself. Perhaps, that is the reason some persons can take advantage and engaged in empty propaganda and slandering but even the blind can clearly see the giant strides and outstanding results the governor has achieved in the past three years and is still tirelessly achieving more.

He declared that in just three years, the governor has constructed, rehabilitated, or initiated construction of over 608 kilometres of road infrastructure across the three Senatorial districts of the state. Both the ongoing roads works and the ones completed are record breaking.
His "People First" agenda spreads across both urban inner-city upgrades and rural connectivity to boost commerce. He knows roads play a cardinal role in enhancing the economic growth of our people as an aggression based economy.

He listed roads so far constructed by the governor in the three years to include: Calabar Municipality and Calabar South covering 2.8 kilometres. These include Etinyin-Abasi, Otomo Street, Uwanse, and Atamunu roads.

"Also there is the rehabilitation of Nyong Edem Road, Goldie Street, Mbukpa Road, Ikono Street, and Edim Otop Road. Construction and rehabilitation of Esuk Utan/NNPC Road, Jonathan Bypass, and Parliamentary Extension Road."

He said while In Cross River North, the Governor has embarked on the rehabilitation of tj Ogoja-Katsina-Ala Road section at Ukpe-Ndok, Ndok-Monaya, and the Abakpa-Igoli-Moniaya Junction:
"Yala where I come from has five kilometres of rural roads in North Ukelle which spans through Yahe–Wanokom–Wanikade. While Yache had three kilometres of road including the bridge Yache–Afilokpa Road, and the Alifokpa Bridge. He has also completed the construction of over twenty five kilometres of road from Okpudu in Okpoma in Yala Local Government Area to Mfom junction in Ogoja in Ogoja Local Government Area

"Sankwala Ring Road, and Beyaga-Ketiang Road While Work is rapidly ongoing on the Ndok Junction–Mbube–Okubushuyu Road which spans ten kilometres"

High Onwe said In the central district of the state , at Ikom, there is the emergency interventions and new construction segments along the crucial Ikom-Obudu Highway.
"And Akamkpa the Oban-Nsan Road stretching thirty kilometres to invigorate farming and trade networks is ongoing and right in Ikom various inner-city routes including Akang Street, Nko Street, Hospital Road, Etomi Road, and Idomi Road and being constructed."

Speaking on the educational sector, High Chief Onwe stated that many schools have been rehabilitated across the three Senatorial districts and the state's performance in national examinations like WAEC, NECO, NABTEB and others have significantly improved.
"Governor Otu has restored scholarships and students funding. These are notable strides which have restored the state to its prime position in education."

On Agriculture, he said Governor Otu has through the Project Grow piloted an initiative bringing to bear the transformation in agriculture to boost food production and unlock food security and commercial agribusiness in the state
"150 billion in farm credit has been secured through Project Grow an 18 billion naira off-take deal with Flour Mills of Nigeria"; this, he said is in addition to the state 7-year strategic plan for cash crops like cocoa, coffee, and oil palm production.

He said the governor has employed 2500 youths into the state's workforce, a bold effort which has not been attempted by any other government in the state.

High Chief Onwe also highlighted the restoration of peace, security and serenity in the state which has allowed businesses to thrive.

"All over the state, the security situation is absolutely commendable. Those frequent kidnappings, armed robbery, night attacks have become a thing of the past. One could stay out at night or return from a journey at any time of the day, nobody molests him or her. Night life which was almost ground to a halt is back fully thriving and the fear that usually comes with night fall is gone. That is a sure testament of the Sweet Prince Mantra and we love him."

Taking a swipe at those engaging in fault finding on the governor, Onwe said "Those who have shot themselves on the foot through avarice and rapacious acts in positions given to them on platter of gold have now found the odious voice to speak because like a fish out of water, they know that they have been swept away thus what they indulge in now is blackmail, misinformation and unnecessary desperation in order to give the impression that they are saints and messiahs.

He restated his stand on the endorsement of Senator ,Prince Bassey Otu by him and his teeming members along with their supporters assuring that the door-to- canvassing for votes to ensure massive turnout and harvest of votes for the governor, President and All Progressive Congress, APC, candidates is a done deal.

"Our hands are on deck and our feet ready to go round every nook and cranny of the state to ensure massive votes harvest and landslide victory for our dear Governor, the President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates in the coming election."
https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/06/cross-river-business-forum-applauds-otus-three-year-record-hails-development-strides/

'So Far, So Good' — APC Chieftain Assesses Otu's Three Years in OfficeBy Efio-Ita Nyok An All Progressives Congress (APC...
07/06/2026

'So Far, So Good' — APC Chieftain Assesses Otu's Three Years in Office

By Efio-Ita Nyok

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Cross River State, Chief Bassey Edet Asuquo, has given a positive assessment of Governor Bassey Otu's administration after three years in office, describing the government's performance as encouraging despite prevailing challenges.

Asuquo, who spoke during an interview in Odukpani Local Government Area following the celebration of his birthday, said the administration had recorded noticeable progress in several sectors and laid foundations for long-term development across the state.

According to him, governance remains a gradual process that requires time, consistency and sustained commitment to deliver results, noting that no administration can address all societal challenges at once.

"I'll say so far, so good. The government has faced its challenges like every other government. Sometimes government is a work in progress because you can't get everything at once," he said.

The APC stalwart acknowledged what he described as positive changes witnessed across the state under the current administration, adding that several projects initiated by the government have the potential to yield both immediate and long-term benefits for residents.

He, however, urged the government to intensify efforts toward improving the welfare of citizens and ensuring that more communities feel the direct impact of governance.

"We've seen a lot of positive changes in Cross River State. We've seen a lot of projects that are good in the long term and short term. But because of the love the people of Cross River State have for this government, we believe that the government should redouble its efforts in helping the people develop, have a sense of purpose, a sense of dignity and a sense of belonging," he said.

Asuquo expressed optimism about the future of the state, stressing that Cross River possesses enormous human and natural resources capable of driving development if properly harnessed.

The APC chieftain also called on political leaders and stakeholders to remain focused on policies and programmes that would improve the lives of ordinary citizens while promoting unity and inclusive governance.

He further urged members of the APC to remain united and committed to the ideals of the party, saying internal cohesion would be critical to sustaining the party's achievements and strengthening its electoral prospects.

"I want to call on APC members to come together as a party, be united and not dwell on past issues. We should have the courage and love for our party to work together and sustain whatever development goals we want to achieve," he said.

Asuquo thanked Governor Otu and the leadership of the APC for their stewardship and expressed hope that ongoing development initiatives would continue to improve the lives of Cross River residents.

The APC chieftain spoke shortly after celebrating his birthday with family members, political associates, friends and supporters, an occasion he described as a period of both celebration and reflection on service, leadership and community development.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/06/so-far-so-good-apc-chieftain-assesses-otus-three-years-in-office/

Orok Otu Duke Unveils Plan for Modern Table Tennis Complex, Athletes’ Hostel in C/RiverBy Our Correspondent The Chairman...
06/06/2026

Orok Otu Duke Unveils Plan for Modern Table Tennis Complex, Athletes’ Hostel in C/River

By Our Correspondent

The Chairman of the Cross River State Table Tennis Association, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, PhD, has announced plans to establish a state-of-the-art table tennis training centre and residential hostel for athletes in Calabar as part of efforts to strengthen sports development and tackle longstanding infrastructure and funding constraints affecting the game in the state.

Speaking recently on the current state of the game, Duke expressed deep concern over the lack of training facilities and modern equipment, which he identified as major barriers to grooming young talent. He revealed that the decision to build a permanent facility arose from a strategic choice to invest in long-term infrastructure rather than short-term international training tours.

"We were talking about sending two girls and two boys to China. I looked at the costs and realized that the amount required to stay one month in China, we could use it to build a table tennis hostel," Duke stated. "I want to have a facility with at least one hostel that can take 20 beds. If it’s double bunk, then it is 40 athletes at a time. Without sequestering the athletes, isolating them, and training them for a time, there will not be any discipline."

The proposed facility that would be located at Lemna Estate, is designed to be a comprehensive sports hub. It will feature a table tennis hall significantly larger than existing state facilities - capable of housing 12 tables - alongside two fields, a track, and a multi-floor hostel.

Duke, who has been a pivotal figure in the state’s table tennis history since 1987, noted that he is undertaking this as a personal project due to the lack of available space at the UJ Esuene Stadium and the slow pace of government intervention.

"Since 1988, I’ve been totally in charge of table tennis - all their finances, nothing that I don’t take care of," he said, reflecting on his decades-long commitment to the sport. He noted that while Cross River has produced world-class athletes like Offiong Edem (now in the U.S.) and Cecilia Akpan, the state is currently facing a "generation gap" as veteran players retire and younger talents are poached by other states or lured away by more lucrative sports like football.

The Chairman highlighted the staggering costs of maintaining high-level performance. He noted that essential equipment, such as professional-grade rubbers, can cost a minimum of 250,000 Naira per pair, requiring replacement every month.

Beyond equipment, Duke identified the "indigene problem" and the lack of professional security for athletes as a major threat. He cited examples of players being "sold out" to other states that offer temporary incentives during sports festivals but abandon the athletes afterward.

"I can bring up these players, but the state should at least employ them," Duke urged. "They need money to buy soap to wash their kits; they need money to transport themselves to training. That is the gap that the government must step in to fill."

Despite the challenges, the table tennis veteran remains optimistic. With the return of veteran coach Richard George Edem to help train the youth, Duke has set a two-year window to "throw up" the next generation of table tennis stars.

"We are going to be firm. Let the facilities be for those who are willing to play for Cross River State," he affirmed.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/06/orok-otu-duke-unveils-plan-for-modern-table-tennis-complex-athletes-hostel-in-c-river/

Cross River Restores Molecular Lab for TB, HIV, Mpox TestingBy Efio-Ita Nyok The Cross River State Government has announ...
03/06/2026

Cross River Restores Molecular Lab for TB, HIV, Mpox Testing

By Efio-Ita Nyok

The Cross River State Government has announced the restoration of critical molecular laboratory services at Dr. Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital, Calabar, reviving the facility's capacity to conduct testing and surveillance for tuberculosis, HIV, Mpox and other infectious disease outbreaks years after the devastation caused by the EndSARS protests.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Egbe Ayuk, disclosed this on Tuesday during an inspection tour of the hospital alongside journalists in Calabar.

Ayuk said the molecular laboratory, which serves as one of the state's key public health surveillance centres, has resumed most of its essential functions following rehabilitation efforts supported by the state government and development partners.

According to him, the facility now conducts molecular testing for tuberculosis, HIV and Mpox while retaining the capacity to support surveillance and response efforts for emerging public health threats.

"This place is arranged to address issues of TB, HIV and other outbreaks. Mpox, Lassa fever and even Ebola-related surveillance can be handled here. Most of the essential services have now been restored," he said.

The commissioner explained that although the facility suffered extensive damage during the EndSARS unrest, significant progress has been made in rebuilding critical infrastructure and restoring laboratory operations.

He noted that the laboratory plays a strategic role in disease diagnosis, surveillance and outbreak response, particularly for tuberculosis and HIV programmes that depend heavily on molecular diagnostic services.

Laboratory Manager, Mrs. Roseanne Edu Bassey, said the facility had resumed testing activities but still required further optimisation to attain its pre-EndSARS operational capacity.

She described the destruction caused by the unrest as massive, noting that virtually all equipment, wiring systems and laboratory infrastructure were vandalised.

"Everything was brought down apart from the walls. We are gradually rebuilding. For now, I would rate the level of restoration between 60 and 70 per cent, but we are still expecting further optimisation," she said.

Bassey added that the laboratory currently conducts tuberculosis testing, early infant diagnosis for HIV-exposed children and other public health assays within a secured molecular testing environment.

The restoration is significant given the critical role molecular laboratories play in the diagnosis and monitoring of infectious diseases, including HIV and tuberculosis, which remain major public health concerns in Nigeria. Molecular diagnostic systems are also central to Mpox surveillance and outbreak detection efforts.

Ayuk said the state government was working with development partners and pursuing additional public-private partnerships to fully optimise the facility and expand healthcare services within the hospital.

He disclosed that plans were underway to further upgrade the hospital as part of the Governor Bassey Otu administration's broader healthcare revitalisation programme.

The commissioner stated that while Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital was originally established as an infectious disease facility, it has now expanded its services to include antenatal care, surgical procedures, general outpatient services and inpatient care.

He maintained that the restoration of the molecular laboratory underscores the government's commitment to strengthening disease surveillance, improving healthcare delivery and enhancing emergency preparedness across the state.

Dr. Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital remains one of Nigeria's recognised centres for the management of drug-resistant tuberculosis and has historically served as a key referral facility for infectious disease management in Cross River State and beyond.

Ayuk expressed confidence that ongoing rehabilitation efforts would further improve the hospital's capacity to provide specialised healthcare services and respond effectively to public health emergencies in the state.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/06/cross-river-restores-molecular-lab-for-tb-hiv-mpox-testing/

Cross River Plans 2,000-Hectare Rice Expansion ProgrammeBy Efio-Ita Nyok The Cross River State Government has unveiled p...
03/06/2026

Cross River Plans 2,000-Hectare Rice Expansion Programme

By Efio-Ita Nyok

The Cross River State Government has unveiled plans to cultivate 2,000 hectares of rice during the 2026 farming season as part of efforts to strengthen food security, boost local production and improve the supply of raw materials to agro-processing industries in the state.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Mr Johnson Ebokpo, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre, Calabar, during an update on the implementation of Project Grow, the state's flagship agricultural transformation initiative.

Ebokpo said the rice expansion programme would be implemented in partnership with the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and is designed to address longstanding challenges in the agricultural value chain, particularly inadequate production volumes and weak market linkages.

According to him, the state is deliberately shifting from subsistence agriculture to a market-driven production system capable of supporting industrial-scale processing and attracting private sector investment.

He explained that while Cross River has historically been regarded as an agricultural state, production levels have remained below the threshold required to sustain large processing facilities and structured commodity markets.

"We must deal with the fundamentals. Access to markets and commercial production are critical. Agriculture can no longer be approached merely as a social intervention programme. It must become a business," he said.

The commissioner noted that the planned rice cultivation programme would support the operations of the state's rice processing facility, which currently depends heavily on supplies sourced from outside Cross River.

According to him, one of the major challenges confronting the facility has been the inability of local farmers to consistently meet the volume requirements needed for optimal operations.

He said the government is therefore creating a structured aggregation system that will link farmers and agribusiness operators directly to processors and guaranteed markets.

Ebokpo also disclosed that the state government had begun addressing longstanding land access constraints that have limited agricultural expansion in several communities.

He revealed that Governor Bassey Otu recently approved the payment of outstanding land royalties on thousands of hectares of government-acquired agricultural lands, some of which date back several decades.

According to him, settling the obligations will improve government-community relations and facilitate access to agricultural lands required for large-scale farming initiatives.

Providing further details on the programme, Project Grow Director, Mr Denis Ikpali, said arrangements had already been concluded with the National Agricultural Development Fund to provide input loans and support for the cultivation of the 2,000 hectares of rice during the 2026 season.

Ikpali explained that Project Grow was established to address structural challenges in agriculture, including poor access to markets, financing, aggregation systems and quality inputs.

He noted that the initiative currently operates across all 18 local government areas of the state and focuses on strategic value chains such as rice, maize, cassava, aquaculture and soybean.

The project director said the market-led approach being adopted by the state had already yielded positive results, including the facilitation of agricultural financing, farmer training programmes and commodity offtake agreements with major private sector operators.

He added that the initiative aims to build a commercially viable agricultural economy capable of generating employment, increasing farmers' incomes and attracting long-term investments into the sector.

The planned rice expansion programme forms part of the Otu administration's broader strategy to reposition agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and rural development across Cross River State.
https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/06/cross-river-plans-2000-hectare-rice-expansion-programme/

Freedom Carnival Band Sweeps Top Honours at Carnival Calabar 2026 Theme UnveilingBy Our Correspondent Lagos –Freedom Car...
02/06/2026

Freedom Carnival Band Sweeps Top Honours at Carnival Calabar 2026 Theme Unveiling

By Our Correspondent

Lagos –Freedom Carnival Band emerged as one of the biggest winners at the Carnival Calabar 2026 theme unveiling and awards ceremony held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, clinching four major awards in recognition of its performance at the 2025 edition of Africa's biggest street party NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

The awards were presented during the official unveiling of the 2026 Carnival Calabar theme, "Rethinking Our Collective Destiny," an event that marked the commencement of preparations for the 21st edition of the annual cultural festival. The ceremony attracted government officials, diplomats, tourism stakeholders, corporate sponsors and carnival enthusiasts from across the country.

Freedom Carnival Band dominated the Junior Category, winning the awards for Best Theme Interpretation, Best Overall Band, Best Carnival Costumes and Best Reflection of Carnival Spirit.

The multiple awards followed what organisers described as the band's outstanding presentation during the 2025 Carnival Calabar, where its performance was widely praised for its creativity, energy and artistic storytelling.

Industry stakeholders said the latest recognition reflects the band's growing influence within the carnival industry and its commitment to innovation and excellence in performance.

The band's recent successes have been linked to the leadership of its Band Leader, Ntufam Ekanem Ekpenyong, whose efforts have helped position Freedom Carnival Band among the leading groups in the annual carnival competition.

Reacting to the awards, the Director and Writer of the band, Austine LordLaz, expressed appreciation to members of the team and dedicated the honours to the children, parents, instructors, designers and support crew who contributed to the band's success.

"These awards belong to every child, parent, instructor, designer and team member who poured their hearts into this journey. Their passion, sacrifice and commitment made this success possible," he said.

LordLaz also disclosed that preparations had already commenced for the 2026 carnival, promising a more ambitious and memorable outing.

According to him, the band is working on a presentation that would challenge perspectives, inspire audiences and further raise the bar for creative excellence at the festival.

"With these achievements behind us, our focus now shifts to 2026. We are preparing something truly unforgettable, an experience that will challenge perspectives, inspire audiences and redefine expectations," he added.

The Carnival Calabar Commission recently unveiled "Rethinking Our Collective Destiny" as the theme for the 2026 edition of the festival, with Governor Bassey Otu describing the carnival as a platform for cultural expression, economic growth and social cohesion.

As preparations intensify for the 2026 carnival, Freedom Carnival Band's latest achievement is expected to strengthen its position as one of the leading contenders in the competition while reinforcing its reputation for artistic excellence and innovation.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/06/freedom-carnival-band-sweeps-top-honours-at-carnival-calabar-2026-theme-unveiling/

PHOTO FRAMES: The Unveiling of Carnival Calabar & Festival 2026 in Lagos
01/06/2026

PHOTO FRAMES: The Unveiling of Carnival Calabar & Festival 2026 in Lagos

Crisis Brews in NDC as Allegedly Unscreened Aspirant Emerges in Obubra/Etung PrimaryBy Our Correspondent The Nigeria Dem...
31/05/2026

Crisis Brews in NDC as Allegedly Unscreened Aspirant Emerges in Obubra/Etung Primary

By Our Correspondent

The Nigeria Democratic Congress is facing growing controversy in Cross River State amid allegations that Ken Egbas participated in the Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency primary election despite reportedly not appearing on the party’s official list of screened aspirants, a development that could result in formal petitions and possible legal action.

The development has sparked outrage among party stakeholders, who describe the situation as a serious breach of the party's established nomination procedures and a development capable of undermining confidence in the party's internal democratic process ahead of the general elections.

A screening document obtained by this reporter indicates that Dr. Tawo Obah Edom was the only aspirant cleared by the party to contest the Obubra/Etung House of Representatives ticket. Party members argue that under such circumstances, the sole cleared aspirant ought to have been affirmed and adopted as the party's candidate by stakeholders in line with party guidelines.

However, the appearance of Ken Egbas during the May 29 primary election has generated widespread controversy, with party faithful questioning how an individual whose name allegedly did not appear on the screening list was allowed to participate in the process.

Aggrieved stakeholders contend that the development not only raises questions about adherence to party rules but also exposes the NDC to possible litigation that could jeopardize its preparations for the general elections. Some members warned that failure to address the controversy could damage the party's image and provide ammunition to political opponents at a time when it should be consolidating support among voters.

"The integrity of any primary election begins with the screening process. If persons who were not cleared are allowed to participate, then the credibility of the entire exercise becomes questionable," a stakeholder familiar with the process said.

Party members are said to be consulting legal advisers with a view to challenging the outcome of the primary election unless the party leadership provides a satisfactory explanation for the circumstances surrounding Ken Egbas’s participation.

Observers say the controversy has cast a shadow over what should have been a straightforward affirmation exercise, given that the screening document showed only one cleared aspirant for the constituency. They warn that unresolved disputes arising from party primaries have historically resulted in costly litigation and political setbacks for parties heading into elections.

As pressure mounts on the party leadership to clarify the situation, stakeholders insist that transparency and strict adherence to party rules remain essential to preserving the NDC's credibility and public trust ahead of the polls.

Efforts to obtain official comments from the NDC leadership and Ken Egbas were unsuccessful as of press time.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/05/crisis-brews-in-ndc-as-allegedly-unscreened-aspirant-emerges-in-obubra-etung-primary/

The Coalition of Cross River State Youths (COCRISY) heartily congratulates His Excellency, Governor Prince Bassey Edet O...
31/05/2026

The Coalition of Cross River State Youths (COCRISY) heartily congratulates His Excellency, Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on your remarkable 3 Years in Office marked by purposeful leadership, impactful governance, and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Cross River State.

Your dedication to the welfare of the people and the progress of our dear state continues to inspire hope and confidence among the youth.

As you celebrate this milestone, we pray for greater wisdom, strength, and success in your administration.

Congratulations, Your Excellency!

Courtesy:
Hon. Etem Okimba
Director General, Coalition of Cross River State Youths (COCRISY)

Cross River Youths Hail Otu, Odey Over Three Years of Inclusive Governance, Economic ProgressABUJA— Youth groups from Cr...
30/05/2026

Cross River Youths Hail Otu, Odey Over Three Years of Inclusive Governance, Economic Progress

ABUJA— Youth groups from Cross River State have praised Governor Bassey Edet Otu and his deputy, Peter Odey, for their leadership over the past three years, citing increased youth participation in governance, economic revitalisation efforts, and development initiatives aimed at improving opportunities and living conditions across the state.

The commendation came from the Chairman of the Youth Council of Nigeria (YCN), Cross River State Chapter, Emmanuel Olayi, during activities marking the third anniversary of the Otu administration.

Speaking at the event, Olayi expressed appreciation to the governor for creating opportunities for young people to participate in governance and leadership, noting that the administration has demonstrated a genuine commitment to empowering the youth population.

According to him, the state's youth community remains grateful for the governor's support for youth development initiatives, empowerment programmes, and capacity-building opportunities that have positively impacted young people across the state.

Olayi recalled the Youth Council's "Not Too Young to Lead" campaign launched ahead of party primaries, adding that the campaign was aimed at encouraging political parties to create more opportunities for young people to seek elective positions.

He noted that shortly after the campaign, several young persons emerged as candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the development as a positive step toward greater youth participation in governance.

"We commend His Excellency for his deliberate efforts towards youth inclusion in leadership and governance. We also encourage other political parties and stakeholders to emulate this example by creating more opportunities for young people to contribute to the development of our state and nation," he said.

The youth leader further lauded the administration's empowerment initiatives, including financial support programmes and ICT training opportunities designed to equip young people with relevant skills for the modern economy.

As part of the anniversary activities, Olayi formally presented to Governor Otu a comprehensive report arising from the Youth Council's statewide "Future First Unity and Assessment Tour," which sought to gather the views, concerns, and aspirations of young people across the eighteen local government areas of the state.

He explained that the report contains critical findings and recommendations from engagements with youths across the state and is intended to support ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and development outcomes.

In addition, the Youth Council presented a Seal of Appreciation and Endorsement to the governor, an honour which emerged from the grand finale of the statewide youth engagement and assessment exercise.

Olayi stated that the endorsement reflects the confidence reposed in the governor by many young people who have witnessed improvements in governance, infrastructure development, economic revitalization efforts, and youth-focused programmes under the current administration.

He assured the governor of the continued partnership and support of the youth community in advancing the state's development agenda, emphasizing that young people remain critical stakeholders in the quest to build a more prosperous Cross River State.

The anniversary celebration attracted prominent Cross Riverians, government officials, political leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders who gathered to reflect on the achievements of the administration over the past three years and chart a path for future progress.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/05/cross-river-youths-hail-otu-odey-over-three-years-of-inclusive-governance-economic-progress/

Address


Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Negroid Haven posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Negroid Haven:

  • Want your business to be the top-listed Media Company?

Share