Calabar news in brief for December 29: Monday’s top headlines

Gov Otu Signs 2026 Budget

Governor Bassey Otu has signed the Cross River State 2026 budget into law, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to inclusive growth and development. The budget, titled the “Budget of Sustainable Development and Renewed Hope,” prioritizes key sectors aimed at improving the lives of citizens across the state. This legislative act signifies a commitment to fiscal responsibility and planned resource allocation for the upcoming fiscal year. The governor emphasized that the budget’s provisions are designed to encourage financial stability, enhance public services, and create opportunities for all Cross Riverians. The signing ceremony marks a significant step in the state’s governance, setting the stage for planned initiatives and projects. Source

FG Distributes Food Items

The Federal Government has initiated a food item distribution program aimed at supporting women and families, providing essential relief and renewed hope. This initiative, launched recently, seeks to alleviate financial pressures and ensure food security for vulnerable households across the nation. The distribution includes a variety of food items carefully selected to meet nutritional needs. This program is part of the government’s broader commitment to social welfare and financial stability, particularly for women who play a significant role in family sustenance. Residents are encouraged to participate through designated channels to receive these much-needed provisions. Source

20th Carnival Calabar Kicks Off

The 20th edition of the Carnival Calabar, a significant social event in Cross River State, has officially commenced with a lively social parade. This year’s carnival, themed “Our Future, Our Humanity,” aims to celebrate the rich heritage and encourage a sense of unity among participants and spectators. The event features various social troupes showcasing varied traditions through music, dance, and elaborate costumes, drawing attention to the distinct social landscape of Calabar and the wider Cross River region. The parade serves as the opening spectacle, setting a festive tone for the series of activities planned throughout the carnival period, which typically includes competitions, musical performances, and other social displays designed to attract both local and international visitors. Source

Nigeria, China Sign Energy MOU

Nigeria and China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at localizing energy infrastructure development in Nigeria. This agreement, allowed by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), seeks to enhance local capacity in the energy sector. The collaboration will focus on manufacturing, fabrication, and other value-adding activities within Nigeria, thereby boosting local content and creating employment opportunities. This initiative is expected to reduce the reliance on foreign expertise and resources, encouraging self-sufficiency in the nation’s energy industry and potentially affecting Cross River State’s financial development and infrastructure projects. Source

Calabar Junior Carnival Success

The Calabar Junior Carnival, a lively celebration of culture and heritage, has concluded successfully, with the wife of the Cross River State Governor, Rev. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, urging children to actively preserve the rich social traditions of the state. The event, which saw enthusiastic participation from young talents, showcased varied social displays and performances. Rev. Otu emphasized the importance of understanding and safeguarding social heritage for future generations, highlighting the carnival as a platform for encouraging this awareness. The successful staging of the Junior Carnival underscores the state’s commitment to promoting social education and engagement among its youth, ensuring the continuity of its distinct traditions. Source

Christmas Smiles for Street Children

Street children in Cross River State experienced a joyous Christmas celebration thanks to a heartwarming initiative. The event, organized by a local non-governmental organization, provided these vulnerable children with festive meals, gifts, and a day filled with fun activities. This outreach aimed to bring cheer and a sense of belonging to children who often face hardship, ensuring they felt remembered and cherished during the holiday season. The initiative highlights the community’s commitment to supporting its less fortunate members and encouraging a spirit of generosity. Source