Calabar news in brief for December 21: Sunday’s top headlines

Wife of President Supports Elderly Citizens

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has provided support to 250 elderly citizens in Cross River State through a cash and food item distribution program. This initiative, part of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme, aims to alleviate hardship and improve the well-being of senior citizens in the state. Beneficiaries received N10,000 each, alongside essential food items such as rice, beans, and vegetable oil, distributed across the state’s three senatorial districts. The program, launched by the wife of the state governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Otu, underscores the administration’s commitment to caring for the elderly and ensuring they are not left behind. This intervention is expected to significantly effect the lives of the recipients, offering them much-needed relief and demonstrating a focus on social welfare within Cross River State. Source

NIWA Links Waterway Safety to Professionalism

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has emphasized that enhanced safety on the nation’s waterways is directly linked to the professionalism and development within the sector. NIWA’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Jibril Darda’u, stated that a more professional approach by stakeholders would significantly improve safety standards. This focus on professionalism is seen as a critical step towards encouraging greater development and utilization of inland waterways for transportation and financial activities across the country. The authority is committed to ensuring that all operators and personnel adhere to best practices, thereby reducing accidents and promoting efficient cargo and passenger movement. This initiative aims to build confidence in water transportation as a viable and secure alternative. Source

FG Launches 1Gov Digital System

The Federal Government has launched the 1Gov digital content system at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in government operations by centralizing digital content management. The system is expected to simplify access to information and improve service delivery for citizens. Officials stated that the adoption of this digital platform marks a significant step towards modernizing government processes and encouraging a more accountable administration. The launch is part of a broader agenda to digitize public services across federal ministries. Source

FG Tackles Mining Quackery Nationwide

The Federal Government is collaborating with professional bodies to combat quackery within the mining sector. This initiative aims to ensure that only qualified and licensed individuals engage in mining activities across the country, including Cross River State. The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is leading the charge, working with associations like the Nigerian Mining and Geo-science Society and the Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists. The goal is to uphold professional standards, prevent illegal mining operations, and encourage sustainable development in the sector. This move is expected to bring sanity and accountability to mining practices, benefiting both the industry and the environment. Source

Hon. Ironbar’s Free Medical Outreach

Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar has organized a free medical outreach in Calabar South, drawing a massive turnout from residents. The initiative aims to provide essential healthcare services to the community, addressing various health needs. This outreach signifies a commitment to improving the well-being of constituents by offering available medical attention. Residents have responded positively, demonstrating the significant need for such health programs in the area. The event underscores the importance of community-focused health interventions. Source

Devatop, NHRC Boost Rights Protection

Devatop Centre for Alternative Diplomacy and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) have partnered to enhance human rights protection across Nigeria. This collaboration aims to strengthen mechanisms for reporting and addressing human rights violations, particularly focusing on vulnerable groups. The initiative will involve training programs for NHRC staff and community stakeholders to improve their capacity in human rights advocacy and monitoring. Through joint awareness campaigns and policy dialogues, the partnership seeks to encourage a culture of respect for human rights and ensure greater accountability for perpetrators. This effort is expected to significantly improve the response to human rights abuses nationwide, benefiting citizens in Cross River State by reinforcing the national framework for justice and protection. Source

Fushi Trains Students Digitally

The Fushi Initiative has successfully trained 595 students in digital literacy and psychological skills, aiming to combat cybercrime and promote responsible online behavior. The program, which concluded recently, focused on equipping young individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage the digital world safely and ethically. Participants learned about various forms of cyber threats, including phishing, online scams, and identity theft, as well as strategies for protecting themselves from these dangers. Alongside digital skills, the training emphasized the importance of psychological resilience and critical thinking to resist manipulation and make informed decisions online. This initiative is expected to encourage a safer online environment for young people in the region and contribute to a reduction in cybercrime incidents. Source

FG Ban on Wood Exports

The Federal Government has implemented a ban on the export of wood and its derivatives, a move that has been applauded by a Nigerian citizen. This policy aims to promote local processing and value addition within the country, thereby encouraging domestic industries and creating employment opportunities. The ban is expected to encourage sawmills and furniture makers in Nigeria, including those in Cross River State, to increase their production and capacity. By restricting raw wood exports, the government intends to ensure that Nigeria benefits more from its timber resources rather than exporting them unprocessed. This policy shift is anticipated to boost the local economy and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian wood products in both domestic and international markets. Source

47.1 Million Nigerians Free of NTDs

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, announced that 47.1 million Nigerians have been successfully treated and are now free from Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis) and Onchocerciasis (River Blindness). This significant achievement is part of the ongoing efforts to eliminate these debilitating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) across the country. The mass drug administration campaign, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has reached over 100,000 communities nationwide, demonstrating a strong commitment to public health and disease eradication. These efforts are crucial for improving the quality of life for millions and reducing the burden of NTDs on the healthcare system. Source

Gov Otu Honours Edem Duke

Governor Bassey Otu has celebrated the 70th birthday of Chief Edem Duke, a prominent figure in Cross River State’s social heritage. The event, held in Calabar, recognized Duke’s lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting the rich social traditions of the state. Governor Otu lauded Duke’s contributions, highlighting his role in showcasing Cross River’s distinct heritage to both local and international audiences. The celebration underscored the importance of social stewardship and acknowledged Duke’s significant effect on the state’s identity and tourism sector. This occasion serves as a reminder of the value placed on social custodians within Cross River State. Source