Curfew in Ugep, Idomi
The Cross River State Government, led by Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on the Ugep and Idomi communities in Yakurr LGA, effective immediately after a peace meeting held on June 11, 2026. The measure aims to de-escalate tensions over a long-running land dispute. Security agencies will enforce the curfew, with provisions ensuring free daytime movement on the Ugep-Ikom Highway for access and safety.
INEC trust push in democracy
The African Electoral Integrity Initiative (AE2I) urges the Executive, Legislature, Judiciary and INEC to strengthen public trust in Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections. In Abuja, AE2I’s Dr Daniel Omofoman calls for transparency, accountability, and inclusive lawmaking, emphasizing equitable access to education, healthcare, employment and security to reduce poverty. He backs a decentralised policing approach to bring security to the grassroots and notes plans with Nigerian Youth in Politics to deploy more than 300,000 youth electoral guards and observers to support security agencies and INEC for peaceful elections.
NABTEB GPS curbs exam fraud
NABTEB is expanding its use of GPS-enabled monitoring to curb examination malpractice nationwide, with closer collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The move aims to safeguard the integrity of NABTEB assessments, improve oversight of field officers, and strengthen accountability across centers, including Cross River institutions and schools. The board reports it has already foiled attempted irregularities and is rolling out malpractice reporting tools and staff development to support the reforms.
UN appoints Nigeria’s Eziakonwa
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has appointed Ahunna Eziakonwa of Nigeria as Special Adviser on Africa. The decision, announced on June 13, 2026, places Eziakonwa in a leadership role within the UN to coordinate Africa-focused policy and programs. The appointment strengthens Nigeria’s representation at the UN and positions Africa-wide development efforts under her guidance. Cross River residents may see indirect benefits through enhanced UN development initiatives and regional cooperation led by the new adviser.
Forum Urges Stronger Action
The Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN) advocates intensified nationwide security cooperation to curb terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. Speaking at a Friday press conference in Abuja, Chairman Eze Chukwu urged government agencies, traditional authorities, and communities to work more closely and avoid circulating graphic crime content online. The call emphasizes youth involvement in governance as a pathway to stronger security and national development, with Cross River residents urged to stay vigilant and support security efforts.
Cross River Obudu Funeral Updates
Cross River residents in Obudu Local Government Area are mourning the passing of Late Supol Simeon Adamade and his wife, Sylvia Adamade. The couple, aged 84 and 63 respectively, are being laid to rest at their country home in Ukutia, Utugwang, with a solidarity Mass held on June 12 and a requiem Mass at St. Charles Borromeu Catholic Church on June 13, 2026. Police conducted a 21-gun salute in their honor as dignitaries and community members gather to pray for their souls.
Cross River grows agribusiness investment
Cross River’s Project Grow is attracting private investment into the state’s agricultural markets. An indigenous agribusiness owner has deployed modern mechanization equipment and now provides services across Cross River and neighboring markets, strengthening land preparation, planting, and harvest activities. Government support under Governor Otu’s administration continues to foster market linkages, reduce barriers, and unlock opportunities in farm inputs, storage, and value addition for local farmers and agribusinesses.
Jarigbe’s Three Years in Senate
Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North, marks three years in the 10th Nigerian Senate with a record of steady constituency work. In Calabar and across Cross River State, the senator has supported road and bridge projects, school classroom blocks, health initiatives, and bursaries for students, while pushing policy and oversight on governance. This milestone highlights ongoing collaboration with Cross River Governor Prince Bassey Otu to deliver tangible benefits for communities in Ogoja, Bekwarra, Obudu, and beyond. The focus remains on development, safety, and improved access to services for residents.
Otu Targets General Hospitals
Residents across Cross River State will see a new phase of healthcare upgrades as Governor Bassey Otu approves funds for renovating General Hospital Ukem and Cottage Hospital Oban, and initiates civil works at the General Hospital complex in Akpabuyo. The administration has revitalized over 100 primary health facilities in the past two years and says more facilities will benefit from ongoing reforms to strengthen secondary care. Health Commissioner Ayuk notes increased funding, staffing, and a new Hospital Management Board to improve service delivery.
Caly Air Drives Cross River Growth
The Cross River State Government says CALY Air is delivering economic growth, boosting tourism and improving connectivity in Calabar and its surrounding communities. Speaking on June 13, 2026, Aviation Commissioner Eno Utum Inah (Retd) described the indigenous airline as a strategic instrument for transformation, noting that it has already provided more reliable flight schedules, created jobs, and encouraged greater activity in hotels, transport services and local businesses. The administration plans to expand routes and strengthen safety and service standards to keep Cross River residents connected and confident about air travel.
Governance strides across Cross River
Cross River State residents are hearing praise from NUJ South-South members and local journalists for Governor Bassey Otu’s development program. The article highlights ongoing infrastructure upgrades, improved healthcare access, and education initiatives across Calabar, Akamkpa, and other communities. Officials describe steady project implementation, transparent reporting, and collaboration with state agencies, stressing the aim to deliver timely services and create more opportunities for Cross River families in the coming months.
MAN ex-chair urges industrial reforms
Mr. Frank Onyebu, immediate past chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Apapa branch, Lagos, calls for deeper industrial reforms to boost Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. He says massive investments in infrastructure and reliable power are essential for Cross River State businesses and workers to compete locally and internationally. Speaking in a NAN interview on June 13, 2026, he emphasizes policy continuity, road and electricity improvements, and stronger public-private partnerships to stimulate production and create jobs for Nigerians in Cross River and beyond.
Gatefield pushes women’s political inclusion
Gatefield, a Nigerian advocacy group, calls for stronger inclusion of women in politics as Democracy Day activities unfold in Abuja. The organisation highlights the persistently low representation of women and stages events such as Coustival: We Decide What Changes to raise awareness about gender harassment and participation barriers. A documentary titled Double Minority showcases female political figures, experiences, and discrimination. Panel discussions feature notable journalists and gender-advocacy leaders who stress that digital platforms offer opportunities yet invite abuse. Gatefield urges attitudinal shifts and practical steps—women engaging early with parties, building strong structures, and mobilising youth volunteers—to expand women’s roles in governance.
UNICROSS Upgrades Student Welfare
The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) announces a major renovation drive across its campuses to improve student welfare, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Francisca Bassey. Calabar Campus hostels have been rehabilitated, with ceiling fans replaced, electrical works upgraded, and toilets restored to functional standards. Water reticulation improvements and reinforced security features accompany the works, while a new hostel at the Ogoja Campus expands accommodation. Restored Students’ Common Rooms now offer safe spaces for study, relaxation, and social activities, enhancing campus life.
National database urged to fight crime
Defence Minister Christopher Musa says Nigeria’s fight against insecurity is hampered by the absence of a centralized national database to track criminals. Speaking during a recent briefing, Musa insisted a unified data system and real-time tracking of movements and ransom payments are essential for intelligence gathering and faster deployments across states, including Cross River. He argues that criminals exploit fragmented records to move across borders, and a comprehensive database would help security forces identify suspects, freeze assets, and prevent repeat offenses. The call comes as security agencies push for modern, ICT-driven approaches.