Calabar news in brief for February 16: Monday’s top headlines

Cross River Leads in MR Vaccine Uptake

Cross River State has achieved a high uptake rate for the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine, demonstrating significant success in its immunization efforts. This achievement is attributed to the dedication of health workers and the effective implementation of vaccination campaigns across the state. The high vaccination coverage is expected to bolster herd immunity and protect children from these preventable diseases. Health officials urge continued participation in immunization programs to maintain these positive health outcomes for the state’s young population. Source

COREN Approves Resolutions for Engineering Practice

The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has approved resolutions aimed at strengthening engineering practice across the nation. These resolutions, passed during the 17th Engineering Assembly, focus on enhancing the quality and standard of engineering services. The council’s decisions are expected to effect engineering firms and practitioners nationwide, ensuring adherence to best practices and professional ethics. This move by COREN signifies a commitment to advancing the engineering sector’s contribution to national development. Source

Cross River Commits to SPIN Project

Cross River State government, represented by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has affirmed its commitment to the Federal Government and World Bank-sponsored Sustainable Power and Irrigation Project in Nigeria (SPIN). This initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and provide sustainable power for irrigation across the state, matching with the administration’s People-First agenda. The project, backed by a $500 million World Bank loan, will initially focus on 650 hectares in Bansara, Ogoja Local Government Area, with plans to expand to 3,000 hectares. Cross River is among the few states demonstrating readiness by fulfilling World Bank prerequisites, including counterpart funding. Source

FG Offers Farmers Interest-Free Loans

The Federal Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), is set to disburse interest-free loans to 22,000 farmers across the nation. This initiative, under the FarmerMoni scheme, aims to boost agricultural productivity and support smallholder farmers. Beneficiaries will receive financial help without incurring interest charges, allowing access to capital for farming activities and contributing to food security. The program is expected to commence soon, with specific details on application and disbursement to be announced. Source

FG Expands Rural Digital Access

The Federal Government is set to provide internet access to an additional 20 million Nigerians through an expansion of rural connectivity. Minister of Communications, Advancement, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, announced that Nigeria is investing in 3,700 new towers for rural areas and 90,000 kilometers of fiber-optic network. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by making connectivity available to previously unconnected populations, supporting the nation’s financial change agenda. The government is also focusing on digital skills training through programs like the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative. Source