FG, BOA target 25m grains
The Federal Government, in collaboration with Bank of Agriculture, has launched the Renewed Hope Smallholder Support and Value Chain Fund to boost Nigeria’s grain production, targeting 25 million tonnes of grains annually. The unveiling took place at the Polo Field, Zaria, with officials outlining a plan that mobilizes smallholder farmers, improves inputs, and expands value chains across states. Cross River farmers stand to benefit through loans, input support, and capacity building, helping local markets, jobs, and food security in the state. Beneficiaries are urged to register with their cooperative societies and apply through BoA branches.
Cross River Information Reforms
The Cross River State government led by Governor Bassey Otu has announced a comprehensive repositioning of the state’s information sector to boost transparency, digital governance, and global visibility. This includes revamping the Ministry of Information, reviving the Cross River Broadcasting Corporation, expanding digital platforms, and restoring official publications. The measure aims to improve citizen access to state communications, strengthen archival systems, and widen the reach of Cross River stories to national and international audiences, with ongoing upgrades through 2027.
Nigeria advances in terrorism financing
Foreign experts applaud Nigeria’s progress in combating terrorism financing during the 3rd Africa High-Level Civil Society AML/CFT Conference in Abuja, held over three days ending July 17, 2026. The event, organised with EFCC’s SCUML, highlighted Nigeria’s shift to FATF Recommendation 8 compliance and a risk-based approach. The discussion emphasised protecting legitimate non-profit activities while strengthening oversight and collaboration among regulators, civil society, and banks to safeguard Cross River residents and nationwide institutions.
Cross River NDC zoning push
A delegation of Cross River State National Democratic Congress (NDC) House of Assembly candidates met with party leader Senator Henry Seriake Dickson to urge that the state’s governorship ticket be zoned to the Southern District. Led by Emmanuel Idi Yakubu of Ogoja, the group argued the move would boost grassroots support and unity. The meeting, held in Calabar on July 17, 2026, signals ongoing internal debates as Cross River residents await party decisions.
AFFCN Sensitises Grassroots Reforms
The Progressive Institute (TPI) and the Amalgamated Forum of Former Councillors in Nigeria (AFFCN) will sensitise grassroots nationwide on electoral and tax reforms by the Federal Government. At a July 17, 2026 press conference in Abuja, the organizers announced a South-South pilot edition set for August 13–14 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom. The effort targets clear public understanding, counters misinformation, and strengthens civic participation, with former councillors mobilising community reach across Cross River residents and other states.
CMD urges unaccredited trainers regularise
The Centre for Management Development (CMD) in Abuja has urged unaccredited management trainers and consultants to regularise their practice under the NCMD Act, as 26 participants graduate from a two-week Advanced Management Development Trainer’s programme. CMD’s D-G, represented by the director of the Office of the D-G, emphasised that accreditation is a legal requirement and promotes ethics and standard practice. Cross River institutions and professionals should note that licensed consultants will improve service delivery and accountability across the federation, including in Cross River communities. Participants highlighted the importance of needs assessments and ongoing professional development to ensure quality in training projects.
Nigeria launches digital standards
The Federal Government has unveiled the Digital Standards Platform to ensure only certified, standardised Nigerian products are bought with public funds, announced in Abuja on July 18, 2026. The initiative, part of the Nigeria First policy, requires MDAs to verify suppliers and products on the platform before procurement to improve quality, transparency and value for money. Officials say the system, developed through a PPP with SON and a private partner, will help Cross River institutions and residents access reliable, verified goods.
No Voter’s Card, No Voice: IPAC Mobilises Cross River Ahead of 2027 Elections
IPAC Cross River State, led by Engr. Effiom Edet Okon, is mobilising eligible residents to register during the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR). In Calabar, IPAC insists that without a Voter’s Card there is no voice, and it urges parents, community leaders, religious bodies, and youths to register before the CVR closes. The council collaborates with INEC and local partners across the state’s 18 local government areas, aiming for Cross River to record at least 2.5 million votes in the 2027 General Elections to deepen democracy and participation.
UNICAL dismisses eight staff
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has dismissed eight staff and sanctioned an additional member following a council meeting, underscoring the institution’s stance on misconduct. The actions, announced in a memo signed by the Registrar, target cases of examination misconduct, absenteeism, and vandalism, with some staff facing postponement of promotions and salary forfeitures. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong stated the measures reflect zero tolerance and are part of ongoing disciplinary efforts to maintain accountability within Cross River’s premier university.
Etung Backs Gov Otu 2027
The Cross River Health Commissioner, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, confirms that Etung Local Government Area remains united behind Governor Bassey Otu and the APC for the 2027 elections in Cross River State. He notes that the Ejagham people’ s alignment with the governing party continues despite the emergence of Etung indigene Prof. Sandy Onor as a PDP presidential aspirant. Ayuk highlights completed healthcare upgrades and ongoing hospital projects as evidence of the administration’s progress in Etung, urging continued support for APC candidates.
PCRC partners Safe School Programme
The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) will partner with the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and other agencies on the Federal Government’s Safe School Programme. In Abuja on July 18, 2026, PCRC National Chairman Alhaji Mogaji Olaniyan outlined plans to install CCTV cameras in suburban schools and deploy 10,000 volunteers as schools reopen. The initiative involves PTAs and community leaders nationwide to enhance school safety, with the national secretariat project expected to be completed this December and named after I-G Olatunji Disu.
NAICOM warns insurers on deadline
NAICOM chief executive Olusegun Omosehin says insurers must meet the new minimum capital requirements by July 31, 2026. Speaking in Lagos at the CIIN investiture, he called the recapitalisation regulatory and essential for a stronger, consumer-focused industry under NIIRA 2025. The move should improve claims settlement, balance sheets and governance. Cross River residents and businesses will benefit from better protection, with insurers strengthened to meet regulatory standards and serve policyholders more reliably.