Calabar news in brief for March 8: Sunday’s top headlines

Cross River, Bauchi Build Climate-Resilient Health Systems

Cross River State is partnering with Bauchi State to develop health systems resilient to climate change. This collaboration aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services to better withstand environmental challenges. The initiative focuses on improving public health outcomes by combining climate considerations into health planning and delivery. Source

Senator Allows School Construction

Senator Jarigbe has allowed the construction of six classroom blocks across three schools in Cross River North. This initiative aims to improve educational infrastructure and provide better learning environments for students in the senatorial district. The project addresses the need for adequate facilities, enhancing the quality of education available to the local populace. Source

Calabar Resumes Monthly Sanitation Drive

The Cross River State government has reinstated its monthly environmental sanitation exercise, scheduled for the last Saturday of every month. This initiative aims to enhance the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of Calabar and its environs. Traders, corporate organizations, and all residents are strongly cautioned to comply with the sanitation laws, as defaulters will face severe penalties. The exercise will commence this Saturday, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining a healthy and orderly city. Source

FG Seals Alumina Pact

The Federal Government has signed a $1.3 billion investment partnership with the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) to fund three projects, including a large-scale alumina refinery. This landmark deal aims to change Nigeria’s mining sector and significantly boost its contribution to the GDP. The alumina refinery alone is valued at $1.3 billion and is projected to process one million tonnes of bauxite annually, yielding 19 million tonnes of alumina over its 20-year lifespan. This initiative is expected to generate over $25 billion for the economy and $8 billion in foreign exchange earnings, marking Nigeria’s largest private mining investment and a substantial foreign direct investment. Source

Silverbird Award Mandate for Service

Governor Otu has received the Silverbird “Man of the Year” award, which he views as a mandate to intensify service delivery to the people of Cross River State. He expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that it motivates him and his administration to work harder towards achieving greater development and progress for the state. The award serves as a powerful encouragement to fulfill his promises and enhance the well-being of all residents. Source

Nigeria to Roll Out HIV Prevention Injection

Nigeria is set to introduce lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable medication for HIV prevention, administered twice yearly. The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) is spearheading the rollout, aiming to enhance HIV prevention strategies across the nation. This initiative is expected to provide a more convenient and effective option for individuals at high risk of HIV infection, potentially improving adherence and reducing transmission rates. Further details on the implementation timeline and target populations are anticipated as the program develops. Source