Calabar news in brief for January 13: Tuesday’s top headlines

New DCP for Finance Administration

The Cross River State Police Command has a new Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for Finance and Administration, Anthony Placid. This appointment signifies a change in leadership for a key administrative department within the state’s police force. The DCP will oversee financial operations and administrative matters, ensuring the smooth functioning of the command. This role is critical for resource management and the overall efficiency of police operations across Cross River State. The specifics of the handover or the exact date of assumption of duty were not detailed, but the appointment itself marks a significant development for the command’s internal structure. Source

FG Pledges Housing Project Priority

The Federal Government has pledged to prioritize ongoing housing projects across the nation. This commitment aims to address the housing deficit and provide affordable shelter for citizens. The government’s focus will be on ensuring the timely completion of these projects, which are expected to stimulate financial activity and create employment opportunities. Residents in Cross River State and other parts of the country can anticipate continued development in the housing sector as the administration works to fulfill its promises. Further details on specific project timelines and funding allocations are anticipated. Source

PCN Charges Foreign Pharmacists

The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has urged pharmacists trained abroad to uphold ethical standards and demonstrate strong leadership qualities upon their return to Nigeria. This directive was issued during the induction ceremony for 20 foreign-trained pharmacists held in Abuja on January 10, 2026. The Registrar of the PCN, Dr. Elijah Mohammed, emphasized the importance of combining into the Nigerian healthcare system with integrity and professionalism. He stressed that adherence to the PCN’s code of conduct is paramount, ensuring that all pharmacists, regardless of their training origin, contribute positively to public health and patient safety within the country. The council expects these newly inducted professionals to be ambassadors of good practice and to actively participate in the advancement of pharmaceutical services in Nigeria. Source

FG Orders April Completion of Road

The Federal Government has directed the immediate completion of the 7th Axial Road sandfilling project, with a strict deadline of April 2026. This directive aims to accelerate the development of critical infrastructure, ensuring timely delivery of projects that benefit citizens. The Ministry of Works and Housing is overseeing the project, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the set timeline. This initiative is expected to improve transportation networks and enhance financial activities within the affected regions. Residents and stakeholders are advised to anticipate the completion of this significant road project within the stipulated timeframe. Source

NARD Suspends Strike Indefinitely

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its planned industrial action indefinitely following extensive engagements with stakeholders. This decision comes after a series of meetings aimed at resolving the issues that led to the proposed strike. The association stated that the suspension is effective immediately, allowing for further dialogue and implementation of agreed-upon resolutions. Resident doctors across the nation are expected to resume their duties as normal. NARD emphasized its commitment to constructive engagement and expressed optimism that the ongoing discussions will lead to lasting improvements in the healthcare sector. The association will continue to monitor the situation and engage with relevant parties to ensure the welfare of its members and the healthcare system. Source

FG, ASUU Formalise University Agreement

The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) are set to formalise an agreement aimed at strengthening the Nigerian university system. This development follows extensive deliberations between the two bodies, focusing on key areas critical to the advancement of higher education across the nation. The agreement is expected to address issues such as improved funding, research development, and the welfare of academic staff, with the goal of enhancing the quality and competitiveness of Nigerian universities. Specific details of the formalisation process and the timeline for implementation are anticipated to be announced shortly, signalling a renewed commitment to revitalising the educational sector for the benefit of students, staff, and the country at large. Source

FG Mandates Concrete Shoulders

The Federal Government has directed the immediate implementation of concrete shoulders on all federal road projects across the nation, including those in Cross River State. This directive aims to enhance road durability and safety by preventing erosion and providing a stable edge. Federal project engineers have been instructed to rigorously supervise the construction and ensure strict adherence to the new specifications. This measure is expected to improve the longevity of federal infrastructure and reduce maintenance costs, ultimately benefiting road users and communities in Cross River State by ensuring higher quality and more resilient road networks. Source

NDIC Pays N24.3bn Dividend

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced the payment of a second liquidation dividend totaling N24.3 billion to depositors of the defunct Heritage Bank. This action follows the revocation of Heritage Bank’s operating license by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on June 3, 2024, due to its failure to meet licensing requirements and engage in activities detrimental to the banking system. The NDIC, acting as the liquidator, is diligently working to ensure all depositors receive their funds. Depositors with funds exceeding the insured limit of N5 million are encouraged to submit their proof of claim forms to the NDIC within the stipulated timeframe to allow the payment of their dividends. The corporation assures the public of its commitment to protecting depositors and maintaining stability in the financial system. Source

Stakeholders Meet on Measles Campaign

The Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA) has convened a crucial meeting with stakeholders and the media to prepare for an upcoming Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign. This initiative aims to protect children across the state from these preventable diseases. The campaign will target children aged 9 to 59 months, ensuring widespread immunization coverage. CRSPHCDA leadership emphasized the importance of community engagement and public awareness to achieve high vaccination rates. Media partners were urged to disseminate accurate information to counter misinformation and encourage parental participation. The agency is coordinating with local government areas, health facilities, and community leaders to ensure the smooth execution of the campaign, which is set to commence soon. This proactive approach underscores the state’s commitment to child health and disease prevention. Source

Rema Dominates Afrima Awards

Nigerian music sensation Rema was the biggest winner at the 9th All Africa Music Awards (Afrima), securing multiple prestigious accolades. The artist took home the coveted Best African Artiste, Best Male Artiste in West Africa, and Song of the Year awards for his global hit “Calm Down.” His track also earned him the Digital Artiste of the Year award. The ceremony, held in Lagos, celebrated African music and culture, with Rema’s multiple wins underscoring his significant effect on the continent’s music scene and his international reach. Other notable winners included Tyla, who won Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa, and Davido, who received an award for his collaboration with Musa Keys. The event highlighted the growing influence of African artists on the global stage. Source