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Office of the Coordinator Akwa Ibom CommunityCalabar Municipal Government - Cross River StateJanuary 10, 2026Hon. Stanle...
10/01/2026

Office of the Coordinator Akwa Ibom Community
Calabar Municipal Government - Cross River State

January 10, 2026

Hon. Stanley Bassey Okon Nsemo
Member, Cross River State House of Assembly
Calabar, Cross River State.

Dear Honorable Nsemo,

LETTER OF APPRECIATION

On behalf of the leadership and the entire membership of the Akwa Ibom Community in Calabar Municipality, I write to formally express our profound gratitude for your impactful and people-centered leadership.

As a community residing within your constituency, we have been direct witnesses to your kindness and the "brotherly love" you have consistently extended to us. You have proven yourself to be more than just a representative; you are a true friend and a vital pillar of support for our people.

In recognition of your unwavering commitment to our growth and welfare, we are pleased to present you with the enclosed "A Thank You" Certificate. This token symbolizes our deep appreciation for your selfless service and the positive influence you have had on our community's well-being.

It is our prayer that your tenure continues to be marked by greatness and that you remain a beacon of hope and progress for all those you serve.

Please accept the assurances of our highest esteem and warmest regards.

Sincerely,

Signed
Dede Umoren Pius (Obongemem)
Coordinator, Akwa Ibom Community
Calabar Municipal Government

Over 50 Drivers Failed VIO Test in December — Official StatisticsThe Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Cross River stat...
09/01/2026

Over 50 Drivers Failed VIO Test in December — Official Statistics

The Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Cross River state has disclosed that more than 50 drivers failed its mandatory driving test in December 2025 and were referred for retraining and retesting NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.

The Principal Traffic Route Commander in charge of National Driver’s Licence, VI Section, Mrs. Grace Iwara, made this known during an exclusive interview with our correspondent in Calabar, while speaking on the ongoing efforts to enforce proper driver’s licence acquisition procedures.

According to her, a total of 222 applicants were processed during the month under review, with 55 candidates failing the VIO test and directed to return after further training.

“In December, we had about 222 persons being trained. Out of that number, we sent 55 back home for re-test because they did not pass the test. They will come back in January,” Iwara said.

She explained to NEGROIDHAVEN that the assessment involved checks on road sign knowledge, driving competence and eyesight, adding that the tests were designed to ensure that only qualified drivers are certified to operate vehicles on public roads.

The VIO official further disclosed that at least 100 applicants successfully passed the test and were subsequently captured by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for issuance of permanent driver’s licences.

She also noted that seven applicants were issued special category licences due to physical conditions identified during the assessment process.

Iwara stressed that the driver’s licence acquisition process, which involves documentation at the VIO, training at accredited driving schools, computer-based tests and final biometric capture by the FRSC, is not a new development but a long-established procedure that many drivers have failed to follow.

She attributed the high failure and retest figures to poor awareness and the tendency of some drivers to avoid official testing procedures.

“The test is not meant to kill anybody. When you come, you learn more about the road and even teach others,” she said.

The VIO official urged motorists to comply with the official process, describing the driver’s licence as a critical document that proves a driver’s qualification, especially in the event of accidents or legal proceedings.

She added that the office has commenced a sensitisation campaign to encourage more drivers to regularise their licences through the proper channels.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/over-50-drivers-failed-vio-test-in-december-official-statistics/

Public Backlash as Bakassi Legislators Hold Session in Classroom SettingBy Efio-Ita Nyok A storm of public criticism has...
09/01/2026

Public Backlash as Bakassi Legislators Hold Session in Classroom Setting

By Efio-Ita Nyok

A storm of public criticism has erupted following the circulation of images and videos showing members of the 7th Bakassi Legislative Assembly conducting an official plenary session in a setting resembling a primary school classroom, complete with pupil desks and plastic chairs NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

The controversial visuals, which emerged online on Wednesday, depict the local lawmakers seated at blue and yellow SUBEB (State Universal Basic Education Board)-style desks, typically used by primary school children, within a sparsely furnished room. The session in question was reportedly where the Assembly resolved to suspend its Clerk, Mrs. Jesam Odu, indefinitely for alleged abuse of office concerning the 2026 Bakassi Appropriation Byelaw proposal.

However, the weight of that decision has been overshadowed by widespread ridicule and condemnation directed at the chamber's condition. Social media platforms, particularly Facebook, have been flooded with reactions expressing embarrassment and questioning the seriousness of the legislative body.

“The seating arrangement of the 7th Bakassi Legislative Assembly raises concerns about professionalism and institutional seriousness,” commented Facebook user Esuong Smith. “A legislature should project structure, dignity and respect for democratic processes.”

The sentiment was echoed by numerous others who described the scene as “shameful,” “a mess,” and “childish play.” Many commenters directly compared the environment to a classroom, with questions like, “Is this not PTA Meeting...?” and “Na primary school be their chamber?” dominating the thread.

A particularly pointed line of criticism focused on the perceived mismanagement of resources in Bakassi, a former oil-producing Local Government Area. User Steve Takim questioned, “With all the billions of naira accruing to the local government from the federation account coupled with massive internally generated revenue, imagine where the so call Hon. Members sit to make laws.”

The backlash highlights a stark disconnect between public expectations for dignified governance and the reality portrayed in the images. The use of basic school furniture for a state-level legislative function has transformed a routine administrative action into a symbol of alleged institutional decay and poor prioritization.

As of press time, the leadership of the 7th Bakassi Legislative Assembly has not issued an official statement addressing the public furor over the seating arrangements or providing context for the choice of venue.

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about resource allocation, infrastructural development, and the image of governance in Nigeria's local council areas.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/public-backlash-as-bakassi-legislators-hold-session-in-classroom-setting/

NYCN State Chairman, Four Others Survive Serious Auto CrashCALABAR – The Cross River State Chairman of the National Yout...
09/01/2026

NYCN State Chairman, Four Others Survive Serious Auto Crash

CALABAR – The Cross River State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Comr. Emmanuel Olayi, and four other individuals survived a serious road traffic accident on Wednesday. The crash occurred as their vehicle was traveling to a major youth engagement event in the state.

The accident occurred between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m along the Nko/inyima axis of the Ikom-Calabar expressway enroute Obubra LGA, as Olayi and members of his team were travelling ahead of the main convoy to the next engagement point. The trip was part of the Central Youth Engagement Tour organised by the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa.

Speaking with journalists from his hospital bed, Olayi explained that the red Toyota Corolla conveying him, three aides, and a driver suddenly skidded off the major expressway despite the driver’s efforts to regain control. The vehicle veered into a nearby bush, tumbled repeatedly, and eventually crashed into a tree.

According to him, the impact left the occupants with varying degrees of injuries. Olayi said they sustained injuries in the head, neck, and chest, while one of his aides was temporarily unable to use his legs immediately after the accident. He, however, confirmed that no life was lost in the incident.

The NYCN chairman disclosed that commercial motorcycle riders in the area were the first to respond to the scene, assisting in opening the damaged vehicle and rescuing the occupants. They were initially taken to the General Hospital, Ugep, where they received first aid before being transferred by ambulance to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for further medical attention.

Olayi clarified that his vehicle was the only one involved in the crash, noting that it was travelling ahead of the main convoy at the time of the accident. Other vehicles in the convoy later stopped after the victims had been moved to safety.

As of the time of filing this report, Olayi and the other occupants of the vehicle were responding to treatment at UCTH, while the damaged vehicle remained at the crash site pending recovery. Further details on the cause of the accident were still emerging.
The incident has drawn concern from youth leaders and stakeholders across the state, with many expressing gratitude that no life was lost and wishing the victims a speedy recovery.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/nycn-state-chairman-four-others-survive-serious-auto-crash/

08/01/2026

Budget Dispute Rocks Bakassi Legislative Assembly During Plenary

Proceedings of the Bakassi Legislative Assembly were thrown into turmoil on Thursday following a heated dispute over the handling of the 2026 budget, with lawmakers openly challenging the procedure adopted in its submission for assent and demanding corrective action.

Tension rose during plenary when the Clerk of the Assembly, Mrs. Jesam Odu, explained that the 2026 budget had been written, submitted and assented to by Effiong Etim Okon the Chairman of Bakassi Local Government before the end of December, a disclosure that immediately drew objections from several councillors.

Members of the Assembly argued that the budget did not undergo full legislative consideration, including second reading, committee scrutiny and public hearing, before it was forwarded, describing the development as a breach of established legislative procedure.

Hon. Miriam Okon (Ward 3) questioned how the budget could be regarded as approved when, according to her, the House had not deliberated on it beyond first reading. She warned that excluding elected representatives from the process undermined the role of the legislature and denied constituencies the opportunity to make inputs.

Other lawmakers, including Hon. Ita Edet Nyoki (Ward 5), Hon. Ene Edet (Ward 4), Hon. Nkoyo Effiong Okon (Ward 9) and Hon. Kenneth Orok Edem (Ward 8), also condemned the process, insisting that no budget could be validly submitted without the knowledge and consent of the Assembly.

The Deputy Leader of the Assembly and Chairman of the Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Prince Mkpeti (Ward 6), described the situation as unprecedented in Bakassi Local Government, stating that the committee and members were not consulted before the budget was forwarded.

In her response, Mrs. Odu apologised to the House, explaining that she acted based on the instructions of the Director of Budget in the council regarding submission deadlines from the supervising ministry.

“I am very sorry for taking the budget without the leader. I was working based on the understanding that councils that failed to submit before December 31 could be penalised,” she said.

However, the explanation failed to calm tensions, as the Leader of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Grace Bassey, ruled that the Clerk had no authority to submit a budget without legislative approval, describing the development as an abuse of office and an embarrassment to the House.

Following the debate, motions were raised on the floor of the Assembly calling for corrective measures, as lawmakers insisted that the 2026 budget must be returned for proper legislative scrutiny in line with due process.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/budget-dispute-rocks-bakassi-legislative-assembly-during-plenary/

Lagos–Calabar Highway: Community Alleges Unauthorized Sand Extraction Linked to Project in Esuk EkomResidents of Esuk Ek...
08/01/2026

Lagos–Calabar Highway: Community Alleges Unauthorized Sand Extraction Linked to Project in Esuk Ekom

Residents of Esuk Ekom Community in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State have raised concerns over alleged unauthorized sand extraction activities linked to the ongoing Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway Project.

The allegation is contained in a petition dated December 17, 2025, submitted by the Association of Concerned Indigenes of Okoyong Community to several security agencies, including the State Security Service (SSS), the Cross River State Police Command, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the State Security Adviser.

According to the petition, Hi-Tech Construction Company, the firm handling the coastal highway project, allegedly opened a new access road outside the approved 100-metre project corridor to extract sand from a river in Esuk Ekom village.

The petitioners claimed that the sand extraction was carried out without the consent of the Eyo Ekpo Family, whom they identified as the rightful landowners of the affected area. They described the development as a deviation from approved project boundaries and a violation of local land ownership rights.

Esuk Ekom is among the thirteen villages in Okoyong Community said to be affected by the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway Project, which involves the acquisition of farmlands, economic trees, and ancestral lands for construction purposes.

The petitioners warned that the alleged unauthorized activities had heightened tension within the community, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing disputes surrounding the compensation process for affected landowners.

They further argued that such actions, if left unaddressed, could undermine trust between the community, the construction company, and government authorities, while posing potential risks to peace and security in the area.

The association called on security agencies and relevant authorities to investigate the alleged sand extraction, ensure compliance with approved project boundaries, and protect the rights of indigenous landowners.

Copies of the petition were also sent to the Governor of Cross River State, the Minister of Works, the Managing Director of Hi-Tech Construction Company, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).

As of press time, neither Hi-Tech Construction Company nor relevant government authorities had issued an official response to the allegations.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/lagos-calabar-highway-community-alleges-unauthorized-sand-extraction-linked-to-project-in-esuk-ekom/

VIO to Begin Statewide Sensitisation on Driver’s Licence Compliance in Cross RiverThe Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in...
08/01/2026

VIO to Begin Statewide Sensitisation on Driver’s Licence Compliance in Cross River

The Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Cross River State has announced plans to commence a statewide sensitisation campaign aimed at improving compliance with official driver’s licence acquisition procedures among motorists.

The Principal Traffic Route Commander in charge of National Driver’s Licence, VI Section, Mrs. Okoi Grace Iwara, disclosed this during an interview with NEGROIDHAVEN.com in Calabar, noting that the initiative is designed to address widespread delays, irregularities, and poor understanding of the proper licensing process.

According to her, the campaign will focus on educating motorists on the mandatory steps involved in obtaining a valid driver’s licence, while discouraging the practice of bypassing official procedures through third parties.

“We are trying to streamline and redesign the process to eliminate delays in driver’s licence issuance and ensure that people obtain their licences properly, in line with current standards in Nigeria,” Iwara said.

She explained that the sensitisation drive would involve collaboration among the Vehicle Inspection Office, driving schools, and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), to ensure that drivers are adequately trained, tested, and documented before being certified to use public roads.

Iwara stressed that possession of a valid driver’s licence remains a basic requirement for driving, describing it as a critical form of identification and proof of competence.

“Without a driver’s licence, you are not qualified to drive or to be on the road,” she said, adding that the document serves as evidence of a driver’s eligibility, particularly in the event of accidents or legal disputes.

She further clarified that the driver’s licence acquisition process is not new but has been in place for several years, noting that many drivers remain unaware of the required procedures or avoid them due to fear of mandatory tests.

As part of the process, applicants are expected to undergo documentation at the VIO, attend an accredited driving school, pass a computer-based test, and successfully complete physical and visual assessments before final biometric capture by the FRSC.

The VIO official said preliminary data from December showed that while over 200 applicants were processed, a significant number failed initial tests and were referred for retraining and retesting, underscoring the need for increased public education.

She urged motorists and parents to take road safety seriously by ensuring that only properly trained and licensed individuals operate vehicles.

“The sensitisation is to help people understand that obtaining a driver’s licence is not a threat but a safeguard—for the driver and for the public,” she said.

The sensitisation campaign is expected to be rolled out across the state in the coming weeks.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/vio-to-begin-statewide-sensitisation-on-drivers-licence-compliance-in-cross-river/

Gov. Otu Emerges The Sun Governor of the YearThe management of The Sun Newspaper has commended the Governor of Cross Riv...
07/01/2026

Gov. Otu Emerges The Sun Governor of the Year

The management of The Sun Newspaper has commended the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, for what it described as his “remarkable and people-centred development strides” within two years in office, culminating in his emergence as The Sun Governor of the Year 2025.

This was disclosed in Calabar when the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of The Sun, Mr. Onouha Ukeh, led the newspaper’s management team on a courtesy visit to the Governor to formally intimate him of the honour. According to Ukeh, the award followed a rigorous and independent assessment of Governor Otu’s performance since assumption of office.

“We have diligently followed your activities over the last two years and we are deeply impressed by the pace, scope and quality of development under your administration,” Ukeh said. “From our findings, your leadership reflects vision, commitment and a genuine desire to reposition Cross River State.”

He listed several landmark achievements credited to the Otu administration, including the remodelling of the Governor’s Office, the construction of an ultra-modern state library, the development of a botanical garden, and the ex*****on of numerous road projects across the state. “These interventions,” he noted, “speak to deliberate governance and strategic investment in public infrastructure.”

Ukeh explained that the award is conferred on leaders whose contributions resonate beyond their immediate domains. “This recognition is not merely ceremonial,” he said. “It celebrates resilience, excellence in public service and tangible contributions to national development. Based on these indices, we found Governor Otu eminently deserving of The Sun Governor of the Year award.”

Responding, Governor Otu expressed profound gratitude to God and to the management of The Sun Newspaper for what he described as an objective and thorough evaluation of his administration. “I am deeply humbled to be found worthy of this honour,” the Governor said. “I thank God Almighty and The Sun for taking the time to go round the nooks and crannies of Cross River State to see, firsthand, what we are doing.”

He stressed that the guiding philosophy of his administration remains service to the people. “Everything we have done is aimed at positively impacting the lives of our people,” Otu said. “This recognition will gladden the hearts of Cross Riverians, because it affirms that our collective efforts are being noticed.”

The Governor added that his administration has focused on consolidating and improving on what it met on ground, laying what he described as “foundational and fundamental structures” for sustainable development. “We are building deliberately, with the future of our people in mind,” he concluded.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/gov-otu-emerges-the-sun-governor-of-the-year/

Anthony Joshua Considers Retirement After Fatal Car Accident — Family SourceFormer world heavyweight boxing champion Ant...
07/01/2026

Anthony Joshua Considers Retirement After Fatal Car Accident — Family Source

Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly considering stepping away from professional boxing following a recent car accident in which two of his close friends lost their lives NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.

Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, disclosed the development in an interview with The Punch, saying the boxer informed family members of his decision after the tragic incident.

“The major thing there is that he has retired from boxing,” his uncle said, adding that the decision has brought relief to the family, who have long endured emotional strain whenever Joshua stepped into the ring.

The accident, which occurred last week, claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s close associates, identified as Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua reportedly sustained injuries in the crash and has since been recovering.

Meanwhile, authorities have confirmed that investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident are ongoing. Police have identified a driver involved in the incident and say the matter remains under active review as legal processes continue.

Joshua, who has earned global recognition for his achievements in the heavyweight division and is regarded as one of boxing’s most successful figures of his era, has not issued an official public statement confirming his retirement.

As of press time, no formal announcement has been made by Joshua’s management team regarding his future in the sport.
..Driver Identified in Fatal Crash Involving Anthony Joshua, Police Say Investigation Ongoing

Police authorities have identified a driver in connection with the car accident involving former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals.

Law enforcement sources confirmed that the driver has been identified as Adeniyi Kayode, 47, but stressed that investigations are still ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the collision.

Police said no final determination has been made regarding liability, adding that forensic examinations and witness statements are still being reviewed.

Joshua has not issued a public statement on the development. However, family members have indicated that the incident has had a profound emotional impact on him and his relatives.

Authorities urged members of the public to refrain from speculation as the matter progresses through the investigative process.
..Anthony Joshua’s $275m Boxing Career Under Spotlight Amid Retirement Discussions

Joshua, who is believed to have earned an estimated $275 million over the course of his professional career through fight purses, endorsements and sponsorships, has been one of the most commercially successful boxers of his era.

Joshua has held multiple world titles and headlined several high-profile bouts during his professional career, earning global recognition inside and outside the ring.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/anthony-joshua-considers-retirement-after-fatal-car-accident-family-source/

2026 Budget Doubles: Cross River Works Ministry Sets Agenda for Expanded Infrastructure DriveBy Efio-Ita Nyok Calabar— T...
07/01/2026

2026 Budget Doubles: Cross River Works Ministry Sets Agenda for Expanded Infrastructure Drive

By Efio-Ita Nyok

Calabar— The Cross River State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure has announced an expanded infrastructure agenda for 2026 following a significant increase in its budget, which rose from about ₦99 billion in 2025 to over ₦200 billion in 2026 NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.

The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Pius Ankpo Edet, disclosed this on Monday in Calabar during an interaction with staff of the ministry at the resumption of work for the new year.

Edet said the sharp rise in the ministry’s budget reflected the state government’s resolve to scale up infrastructure delivery across the state and would require increased commitment and efficiency from civil servants.

“In 2025, the budget of the Ministry of Works was about ₦99 billion. In 2026, we have over ₦200 billion. That tells you that this year is a different ball game,” the commissioner said.

According to him, the expanded budget is tied to the decision of the state government to extend the dividends of democracy to all local government areas through aggressive road construction, rehabilitation and bridge projects.

He explained that the Ministry of Works, as a pilot agency in infrastructure delivery, would play a central role in implementing the state’s development agenda, making staff performance and punctuality critical to success.

“This money cannot fly alone. It requires people to apportion it through responsibility and hard work. That is why we expect our staff to be proactive in service delivery,” Edet said.

The commissioner further noted that 2026 would involve more work than the previous year, urging staff to prepare for what he described as a period of intensified project ex*****on.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, **Engr. Paul Bepeh**, also charged staff to embrace punctuality and discipline, warning that the new year would demand higher productivity.

“Proactiveness to duty is key this year. Being a civil servant goes beyond signing the time book,” Bepeh said, adding that management would closely monitor attendance and performance.

Edet highlighted some of the ministry’s achievements in 2025, including road rehabilitation and construction projects across the northern, central and southern senatorial districts of the state.

In the northern part of the state, he listed the rehabilitation of the Ogoja road network, the Mbube route, the Ukele route and the Alifokpa axis, as well as the ongoing construction of a bridge project.

In Central Cross River, the commissioner said several roads were under construction, including the Ochinedo Road, while additional routes covering about 15 kilometres were scheduled to commence in January.

He also cited progress in the southern part of the state, particularly the Adiabo–Eseku Road, which he said had been neglected for over 30 years but was now nearing completion, as well as the Obansan Road and several internal roads within Calabar metropolis.

The commissioner said the scale of projects planned for 2026 would build on the gains recorded in 2025 and further reposition the state’s infrastructure sector.

“This is the season of sweetness in infrastructure development in Cross River State,” Edet said, adding that the ministry was committed to delivering projects that would have direct impact on communities across the state.

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2026/01/2026-budget-doubles-cross-river-works-ministry-sets-agenda-for-expanded-infrastructure-drive/

Gov Otu Signs 2026 Budget into Law,  Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive GrowthGovernor of Cross River State, Senator Bass...
06/01/2026

Gov Otu Signs 2026 Budget into Law, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Growth

Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has formally signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, describing the budget as “a statement of purpose and a solemn commitment to social stability, inclusion, and shared prosperity.” The signing ceremony took place at the Government House before the Speaker of the House of Assembly and members of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otu said the budget was carefully designed to respond to the realities facing the state while laying a solid foundation for long-term growth. “This budget is more than a legal appropriation,” he declared. “It is our blueprint for economic transformation, social protection, and the delivery of tangible dividends of democracy to our people.”

The governor commended the House of Assembly for what he described as “diligence, transparency, and patriotism” throughout the budget process. He noted that the legislature’s engagement with the executive, civil society organisations, and state economic managers reflected global best practices. “The successful implementation of this budget will continue to inspire confidence in governance and reinforce accountability in the service of our people,” Otu said.

According to the governor, the ₦961 billion 2026 budget places strong emphasis on capital development, with significant investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, energy, and social protection. “By prioritising roads, bridges, urban renewal, and rural connectivity, we are not just building infrastructure; we are unlocking new economic opportunities across our cities and communities,” he stated.

Governor Otu further stressed that human capital development remained at the heart of his administration’s agenda. “Our education sector remains central to our future,” he said, adding that the budget provides for improved learning infrastructure, teacher development, and better educational outcomes to prepare young people for a modern economy.

He also underscored the importance of healthcare and social welfare, noting that the budget includes projects aimed at expanding medical facilities, improving service delivery, and protecting the wellbeing of citizens. “No one will be left behind as we strengthen social safety nets, empower citizens, and protect the most vulnerable among us,” the governor assured.

Earlier in his address, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayamben, said the legislature approached the budget with a deep sense of responsibility to the people. “This House has a duty to speak for every segment of our society,” Ayamben said.“

The Speaker explained that the House subjected the budget to rigorous scrutiny, including what he described as an “open review” process. “In the interest of transparency and redress, we reviewed the budget framework to ensure adequate allocation for institutional strengthening, security response, and citizen protection,” he said, noting that the legislature’s work was guided by constitutional responsibility and public interest.

The Speaker highlighted the budget’s strong capital orientation, which he said would translate into wealth creation and infrastructure expansion. “This strong capital organisation will drive prosperity across the state,” Ayamben stated. “From roads and power infrastructure to education and healthcare, the House ensured that every allocation reflects the needs and aspirations of our people.”

Both the governor and the Speaker paid special attention to women and youth empowerment. Governor Otu noted that women “play a critical role in shaping our future,” while Ayamben affirmed that the House supported targeted programmes in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, sports development, and economic inclusion to meet “the immense demands of our people."

As he signed the budget into law, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaboration with the legislature. “Together, we shall advance financial harmony, accountability, and effective service delivery,” he said. “Together, we will deliver on the promise of greatness for Cross River State.”

https://www.negroidhaven.com/2025/12/gov-otu-signs-2026-budget-into-law-reaffirms-commitment-to-inclusive-growth/

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