Calabar news in brief for February 13: Friday’s top headlines

Governor Otu Named Silverbird Man of the Year

Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has been recognized as the Silverbird Man of the Year for 2025. This prestigious award acknowledges his significant contributions and leadership within the state. The selection highlights his effective governance and dedication to the development and progress of Cross River State. Source

Governor Launches 2025 WASH Policy

Cross River State Governor has launched the 2025 Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) policy, emphasizing the need for collective action to ensure safe water and sanitation for all residents. This initiative aims to improve public health and living standards across the state by addressing critical WASH infrastructure and service delivery gaps. The policy outlines strategies and targets for the coming year, encouraging collaboration between government agencies, private sector partners, and communities to achieve universal access to these essential services. Source

Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign Success

Akwa Ibom State has successfully vaccinated 1.29 million children against Measles-Rubella in just six days as part of a nationwide immunisation campaign. The exercise, spearheaded by the State Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, aims to protect children from these contagious diseases and reduce childhood mortality. The campaign, supported by Governor Umo Eno, highlights the state’s commitment to eradicating vaccine-preventable illnesses and ensuring no child dies from such diseases. Source

CP Bassey Ewah Takes Command in Plateau

Cross River indigene, CP Bassey Samuel Ewah, has assumed office as the 46th Commissioner of Police in Plateau State. Born on July 28, 1968, and a native of Etung Local Government Area, CP Ewah brings over three decades of policing experience to his new role. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Calabar and joined the Nigeria Police Force in May 1992. His extensive career includes service in various state commands and postings at the Force Headquarters, with significant experience in operational, administrative, and instructional duties. CP Ewah is expected to lead policing operations and coordinate security efforts across Plateau State. Source

Federation Account Inflow N35 Trillion

The Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr Shamsudeen Ogunjimi, announced that the Federation Account received N35 trillion in 2025, an increase from N27 trillion in 2024. This rise is attributed to fiscal reforms implemented by the administration and a move towards a more resilient economy less dependent on oil. The Federation Account serves as the primary channel for national resource distribution among federal, state, and local governments. The increase signifies improved revenue collection and remittance, which directly effects the resources available for development projects and public services across all tiers of government, including Cross River State. Source

FG Earns $500m Export Revenue

Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, announced that the ministry generated over $500 million in export revenue in 2025. This achievement is attributed to industrial development and financial diversification efforts. The ministry’s programs also reportedly created over 20,000 direct jobs, and activity on the Nigeria Commodity Exchange saw a significant increase of over 500 percent in traded volumes. These developments match with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on local production and non-oil exports. Source