Calabar Fire Incident Assessed
The joint team of NEMA, CR-SEMA, the NRCS and other partners conducts a Damage and Needs Assessment in Calabar after a Thursday night fire at 21 Atamunu Street. The Friday, August 21, 2026 assessment confirms the building was destroyed but no lives were lost. Authorities say they will identify immediate and long‑term needs and coordinate support for affected households, urging residents to stay calm as relief efforts unfold.
Boki Women Honour Ayuk
The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, was honoured by the Ochibe Banyinyi Boki Ejiemumu, a Boki women’s group, for his impact in health service and humanitarian work in Nigeria. The award, presented on August 20, 2026 at Abontakon in Boki Local Government, recognises Ayuk’s role in public health development and service to society. The ceremony, part of the annual Boki Yam Festival, underscores Cross River’s ongoing commitment to health sector progress and community welfare.
Ugep Women commend Arikpo appointment
A delegation of Ugep Women in Politics visited the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Hon. Dodeye Ikpi Arikpo, on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, to congratulate him on his appointment and pledge support for Governor Otu’s administration. The group, led by Madam Blessing Okama, urged greater opportunities for women in governance and vowed to back policies aimed at advancing Cross River’s development. Arikpo expressed appreciation and affirmed his readiness to collaborate with relevant bodies to drive state progress.
Cross River flood relief boost
Cross River State is receiving new assistance as flood victims receive support from Cross-Riverians abroad. The initiative channels cash and in-kind items to affected communities across Calabar and other riverine areas, helping families recover faster after the floods. Local authorities coordinate logistics, distribute reliefs through designated centers, and ensure transparent reporting. Beneficiaries are urged to register with local relief committees to access aid and to follow safety guidelines during distributions.
Fire Breaks at Calabar Mall
A fire outbreak is spreading through a wing of Calabar Mall, with only one fire service truck on site to battle the inferno. The affected wing houses a pharmacy, clothing outfit, perfumery, and a phone shop, while Spar and other outlets are within the mall. The incident is unfolding as hydrants appear overwhelmed, prompting authorities to manage crowds and prevent looting. Firefighters are working to contain the blaze and protect adjacent businesses; residents are advised to stay clear of the area and follow official guidance for safety and evacuation if needed.
Leboku 2026 Winners Named
Ogomogom Nyenneyorbase Eteng, a Human Psychology graduate from the University of Calabar, and Enor-Abasi Ubi, a Health Technology graduate from Calabar, are crowned Mr. and Miss Leboku 2026 at the Leboku pageant held in Ugep, Yakurr LGA, Cross River State. Eteng, 26, is a first-time contestant, while Ubi, 28, is a seasoned participant who edged five rivals for Miss Leboku. First and second runners-up also earn recognition in this Cross River cultural festival. The Leboku celebration, rooted in yam harvest traditions, continues to showcase Yakurr hospitality and local talent.
NTI to Establish Study Centres
The National Teachers’ Institute (NTI) will establish study centres across Cross River State’s three senatorial districts to support its Accelerated Teachers Professionalisation Pathway, offering PGDE and PDE qualifications. NTI State Coordinator Deborah Silas-Dikibo disclosed the plan after a courtesy visit to Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Prof. Stephen Odey, on August 22, 2026. The government will facilitate the centres to bring professional training closer to teachers, expanding access and improving teaching standards across the state.
Strengthening Breastfeeding Support in Nigeria
The Federal Government of Nigeria has begun strengthening breastfeeding support nationwide to help mothers sustain exclusive breastfeeding from pregnancy through the first 1,000 days. The NAN feature reports that UNICEF Nigeria, health experts, and the 1,000 Days initiative emphasize maternity protection, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, and the strict regulation of breast-milk substitutes. In Cross River residents, mothers, employers, and health workers will gain from paid maternity leave provisions and designated breastfeeding spaces, with federal agencies coordinating campaigns, capacity building, and community outreach across states including Cross River.
Roche, MedServe upgrade Nigeria labs
Roche Diagnostics and MedServe, the healthcare subsidiary of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, have signed a five-year agreement to equip 12 Nigerian laboratory sites with modern diagnostic systems. The Lagos-based rollout, announced on August 22, 2026, aims to decentralise access to quality testing and strengthen laboratory capacity nationwide, with Cross River State residents expected to benefit from expanded diagnostic services as sites are deployed and integrated with existing HIV testing infrastructure. The program emphasizes increased access through enhanced equipment, training, and a stronger health-insurance framework to support reliable diagnostics.
US Judge Reverses Visa Freeze
A US federal judge in Manhattan has struck down the January policy that blocked immigrant visas for 75 countries, including Nigeria, saying the measure exceeded the secretary of state’s authority and conflicted with US immigration law. Nigeria was listed among the affected countries; however, the decision does not instantly grant visas. Applicants must still meet existing requirements, while the State Department explains how processing will proceed. For Cross River residents, this ruling could restore visa processing continuity and ease disruptions for families and workers seeking US opportunities.