Court restrains Cross River government
The High Court of Cross River State sitting in Ogoja has granted an interim injunction restraining the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Cross River State Government, and their agents from inviting, arresting, detaining, or harassing Ogoja Local Government Vice Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, over an official vehicle. The order comes as the court also upheld a June 15, 2026 judgment declaring Yakubu the valid officeholder, and it shields the vehicle issue pending a substantive suit. The ruling directs state bodies to respect due process and safeguard Yakubu’s rights while the case proceeds.
UNICROSS trainees join CrossRiverWatch
UNICROSS journalism students from the University of Cross River State began a four-week industrial training at CrossRiverWatch in Calabar, with the program kicking off on June 8, 2026. The hands-on placement exposes them to news gathering, editing, desk and field reporting, photography and videography, under the guidance of seasoned editors and reporters. The initiative strengthens practical journalism skills, fosters accountability, and connects classroom learning with real-world media practice in Cross River State.
Group Urges Otu Scorecard Review
Cross River State’s Elders and Stakeholders Forum has urged members of the Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) to address what it calls Otu’s abysmal scorecard and defend Senator Sandy Onor’s record instead of personal attacks. In a statement signed by Dr. Anthony Adie and Asuquo Bassey, the group says public dissatisfaction stems from governance in health, education, and infrastructure. The forum calls CRSCF to inspect ongoing projects, including the Yala Road, and to commit to issue-based engagement for tangible results in Calabar and the state.
Senate passes state police bill
The Senate has passed a constitutional alteration bill to establish state police services across Nigeria, paving the way for governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their states, subject to confirmation by the respective state Houses of Assembly. The development, reported this week, outlines a framework where state police operate alongside the federal force with defined oversight. For Cross River State residents, the measure means a state police structure could be created and led by a governor-appointed CP, following recommendations from the National Police Council and required approvals, with operations starting only after a state enabling law is enacted. The move is intended to bolster local security management, while preserving federal coordination and standards.”
FG funds medical education drive
The Federal Government has committed over N217 billion to strengthen medical education and healthcare training nationwide, announced on June 24, 2026, at a conference in Lagos. The plan includes infrastructure upgrades, equipment procurement, and the creation of Medical Simulation and Technology Centres. Cross River institutions stand to benefit through expanded training capacity and improved learning environments, aligning with the NRIDF and other federal investments to boost healthcare outcomes for residents and students alike.
Cross River Improves Blood Services
Cross River State Government, led by Health Commissioner Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, is moving to close a long-standing gap in blood transfusion services through a proposed partnership with Crimson Wing Blood Logistics. At a Calabar meeting with the provider, officials outlined a plan to strengthen blood collection, screening, storage, and distribution while keeping NBSA oversight. A Memorandum of Understanding will formalize roles, with a one-year pilot and potential blood service centers across the state’s three senatorial districts to improve access and emergency response.
Nigeria-Philippines trade soars 370%
The Philippines’ Ambassador to Nigeria, Mersole Mellejor, reports that bilateral trade between Nigeria and the Philippines rose from $47 million in 2023 to $221 million in 2024, a rise of about 370 percent. The growth expands opportunities for Cross River businesses and workers, with more Philippine-linked imports and Nigerian exports reaching markets in Asia. The envoy notes continued efforts to widen cooperation and ensure Cross River firms participate in new trade avenues through year-end and beyond.
Jaiz Bank expands 2026
Jaiz Bank Plc announces plans to push SME and retail banking expansion across Nigeria in 2026, including Cross River State. At its 14th AGM in Abuja, CEO Dr. Haruna Musa says the lender will deepen financial inclusion with ethical banking and grow shareholders’ value. The bank expects to open about 10 new branches by December 2026, boosting deposits and service delivery. In Cross River communities, this means greater access to transactions, loan products, and digital banking options through expanded branch networks and targeted financial inclusion programs.
Jaiz Bank raises N150bn
Jaiz Bank Plc shareholders at the bank’s 14th virtual Annual General Meeting in Abuja have approved raising an additional N150 billion through multiple instruments. The CEO, Dr Haruna Musa, says the funds will support lending to agriculture, cocoa farming, food preservation, and green energy, with two to three tranches planned in 2026. The move aims to strengthen the bank’s capital position and boost financial inclusion, potentially benefiting Cross River farmers, small businesses, and residents through improved credit access.
Ayuk Obi Named Tourism Commissioner
Cross River State Assembly has confirmed Ayuk Obi as the new Commissioner for Tourism. In Calabar this June, lawmakers approved his appointment to lead the state’s tourism portfolio, with duties including promoting cultural festivals, improving hospitality services, and coordinating investments in cross-river attractions. Obi says he will partner with hoteliers, tour operators, and cultural groups to raise visitor numbers while safeguarding the environment. The confirmation signals the state’s push to grow Cross River’s tourism sector and create local jobs.
Cross River Wins NWFL 2026
Cross River State Governor Otu has advanced a bold sports infrastructure drive that secures the 2026 NWFL Championship in Calabar. At a briefing in Calabar, the Cross River State Sports Commission announced upgrades to the U.J. Esuene Stadium and related facilities, enabling Cross River to host the tournament from July 11 to 18, 2026. Officials say the improved venues, seating, and security will boost local tourism, youth development, and economic activity in the state.
Cross River Info Director Awarded
The Cross River State Director of Information, David Akate, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence for selfless service to humanity by the Catholic Men Organisation of St. Anthony of Padua Quasi Parish in Basin Satellite Town, Calabar. The recognition came during the CMO Talent Week, aligned with International Father’s Day celebrations. Akate thanked the Catholic community for the honour and urged continued service to church, society, and humanity as a whole.
Expert Urges Health Worker Reforms
A neurosurgeon at Adamawa Teaching Hospital has urged the Federal Government to address challenges in the health sector to curb the migration of healthcare workers, a move announced in Abuja on June 25, 2026. He notes that poor pay, working conditions, and equipment shortages push professionals abroad, straining Nigeria’s hospitals and patient care. The proposal calls for better welfare, modern facilities, and ongoing training to retain staff. Cross River State health facilities would directly benefit from improved retention and staffing, enhancing service delivery for residents.
Competence, Merit Guide Recruitment
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) announces that ongoing recruitment will be guided by competence and merit. Secretary Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril spoke in Uyo, confirming that 14 screening centres nationwide will host physical checks, document verification, and fitness assessments. About 60,000 of the more than 1.6 million applicants have been shortlisted, with a target to recruit no fewer than 30,000. Applicants are urged to avoid bribery; the process remains free and transparent, with Cross River applicants affected by the nationwide rollout.