Calabar news in brief for December 23: Tuesday’s top headlines

Gospel Ministers Reaffirm 2026 Commitment

The Cross River State Indigenous Gospel Ministers Forum (CRSIGM) has reaffirmed its commitment to spiritual and community development, particularly in anticipation of the 2026 calendar. During a recent meeting, the forum emphasized its role in encouraging unity and progress among gospel ministers within the state. The discussions focused on strengthening the forum’s organizational structure and enhancing its outreach programs to better serve the populace. Members also pledged to uphold ethical standards and collaborate on initiatives aimed at spiritual upliftment and social welfare across Cross River State. The forum’s leadership expressed optimism about the future effect of their collective efforts. Source

CSCS Appoints Shehu Shantali CEO

The Cross River State Civil Service (CSCS) has appointed Shehu Shantali as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This transition follows the commendable tenure of Jalo Waziri, whose legacy is being lauded by the organization. The appointment signifies a new chapter for the CSCS, aiming to build upon the foundations laid by the previous leadership. Further details regarding the planned direction and immediate priorities of the new CEO are expected to be released soon. This development is significant for civil service operations within Cross River State, potentially affecting administrative processes and employee welfare. The CSCS plays a critical role in the state’s governance structure, and leadership changes often signal shifts in policy or operational focus. Residents and stakeholders will be keen to observe the effect of this appointment on the efficiency and effectiveness of the civil service. Source

Wema Bank Boosts Startups

Wema Bank has awarded N120 million to 10 startups through its “Get A Job, Create A Job” initiative, aiming to encourage advancement and financial growth. This program, launched in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University, focuses on supporting young entrepreneurs in developing their business ideas and creating employment opportunities. The selected startups, chosen from a pool of applicants across Nigeria, will receive seed funding, mentorship, and business development support to scale their ventures. This initiative directly effects Cross River State by providing financial resources and developmental aid to potential entrepreneurs within the region, thereby contributing to job creation and financial diversification. The program underscores Wema Bank’s commitment to nurturing local talent and driving sustainable development within the Nigerian economy. Source

Voices of Paradise 2025 Winners Announced

The highly anticipated Voices of Paradise 2025 event has concluded, celebrating outstanding talent and creativity. Winners across various categories have been revealed, marking a significant achievement for participants and organizers alike. The event, held recently, aimed to showcase and reward excellence within the community. Detailed information regarding the specific categories, the esteemed winners, and the prizes awarded is now available for the public to view. This initiative continues to encourage a culture of recognition and achievement in Calabar. Source

FG Declares Holiday Dates

The Federal Government has declared December 25th and 26th, 2025, as well as January 1st, 2026, as public holidays. This declaration is in observance of Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day respectively. The government urges citizens to use these periods for rest and reflection. This announcement affects all residents and institutions within Cross River State, including schools and businesses, who will observe these days as non-working days. Residents are advised to plan their activities accordingly to accommodate these holiday periods. Source

CNG Initiative Needs Policy Push

An expert has stated that the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative in Nigeria requires a significant policy and infrastructure push to achieve its full potential. This initiative, aimed at transitioning the nation towards cleaner energy sources and reducing reliance on premium motor spirit (PMS), faces challenges that need to be addressed at the federal level. For Cross River State residents and institutions, this means that the successful implementation of CNG as a viable alternative fuel hinges on national policy frameworks and the development of necessary infrastructure, such as refueling stations and conversion facilities. Without a strong governmental strategy and investment in infrastructure, the widespread adoption of CNG across the state and the nation will remain limited, affecting potential cost savings for vehicle owners and the broader environmental goals associated with cleaner fuel usage. The expert emphasizes that a coordinated effort involving policy formulation and infrastructure development is essential for the CNG initiative to succeed and benefit Nigerians. Source

WHO Appoints Prof Emeje

The World Health Organization (WHO) has appointed Professor Emeje, a Nigerian, to its Traditional Medicine Advisory Group. This appointment recognizes his expertise and contributions to the field of traditional medicine. The advisory group will play a role in guiding the WHO’s strategies and policies related to traditional and complementary medicine globally. Professor Emeje’s inclusion highlights Nigeria’s growing influence and recognition in international health organizations. This development is expected to bring valuable perspectives from Nigeria to the forefront of global health discussions concerning traditional healing practices. Source