This is Cross River, Calabar (2026)

13/03/2026

UNICEF, CRSPHCDA Hold Technical Engagement on Maternal and Child Health Indicators in Cross River

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Enugu Field Office on March 12, 2026, held a high-level technical engagement with the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (CRSPHCDA) to review maternal and child health indicators and strengthen strategies for reducing mortality across the state.

The meeting, which took place at the agency’s headquarters, brought together senior health officials and programme managers to assess current data and develop targeted interventions aimed at improving healthcare delivery, particularly at the grassroots level.

Leading the UNICEF delegation was Public Health Specialist, Ifeyinwa Uzoamaka Anyanyo, who met with the Director General of CRSPHCDA, Vivien Mesembe Otu, alongside members of the agency’s technical team.

The engagement served as a strategic platform to evaluate maternal and child health (MCH) indicators in Cross River State, with discussions focusing on data-driven approaches to addressing maternal and neonatal mortality.

During the situation analysis, officials noted that the state has recorded significant progress in immunization coverage, achieving about 95 percent coverage. However, concerns remain over persistent maternal and neonatal mortality rates, particularly in high-burden Local Government Areas.

To address these challenges, the meeting outlined a series of strategic interventions anchored on improved data utilization, strengthened clinical capacity, and enhanced community engagement.

Under the data-driven policy framework, CRSPHCDA will leverage health information systems such as DHIS-2 and CHAMPS to identify LGAs with the highest mortality rates and deploy targeted interventions accordingly.

In the area of clinical excellence, the agency plans to distribute “Mama Kits” to expectant mothers and intensify training for Community Health Practitioners on emergency obstetric care to improve maternal outcomes.

The stakeholders also emphasized the need to strengthen system integration by bridging gaps between antenatal care services and child welfare programmes, ensuring a seamless continuum of care from pregnancy through early childhood.

Community-based approaches were equally highlighted, with plans to collaborate closely with Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), who will receive training to identify high-risk pregnancies and promptly refer such cases to primary health centres.

Speaking during the engagement, Dr. Otu reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving maternal health outcomes in the state.

> “Our vision is to ensure every woman in Cross River experiences a safe pregnancy. We are eliminating the ‘five delays’ because no mother should die while bringing life,” she said.

On her part, Dr. Anyanyo reiterated UNICEF’s readiness to support the state government in strengthening evidence-based public health interventions.

> “UNICEF remains committed to supporting Cross River State in refining its public health strategies. By focusing on evidence-based interventions, we can move the needle on neonatal and maternal indicators significantly,” she stated.

The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to the state government’s people-centred health agenda, while agreeing to institute quarterly reviews of maternal and child health indicators to track progress and ensure that the proposed interventions translate into measurable improvements in health outcomes.

13/03/2026

CRSG, Partners Collaborate to Strengthen Nutrition Outcomes

The Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA), in collaboration with development partners and government stakeholders, has commenced a five-day strategic workshop aimed at strengthening nutrition outcomes across Cross River State.

The technical session, which is taking place in Calabar, focuses on domesticating national nutrition and Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) strategies to reflect the state’s unique socio-cultural realities.

Speaking at the opening ceremony held at Dannic Hotels, the Director General of CRSPHCDA, Vivien Mesembe Otu, emphasized the importance of translating national policies into practical solutions that address local needs.

According to her, the initiative is designed to move beyond generic frameworks by developing context-specific interventions that can effectively tackle malnutrition and improve public health outcomes in the state.

“Our goal is to translate national policy into practical, locally adaptable interventions,” she said. “By refining these strategies, we are building a roadmap that enables frontline health workers and development partners to operate in a unified and measurable direction toward eliminating malnutrition.”

The workshop, supported by UNICEF and the Cross River State Ministry of Health, is structured around three major pillars: domestication, validation, and the development of a unified roadmap for implementation.

Under the domestication pillar, stakeholders will work to align national policies with the traditions, realities, and health needs of communities across the state. The validation process will ensure that all proposed interventions are practical, measurable, and capable of delivering tangible results. Meanwhile, the unified roadmap will serve as a guiding document for all partners involved in nutrition and public health interventions.

Participants at the workshop include government officials, nutrition experts, development partners, and frontline health workers who are expected to collectively design strategies for improving nutrition outcomes.

At the end of the five-day session, stakeholders are expected to produce a coordinated action plan that will serve as a blueprint for nutrition and health interventions across all 18 local government areas of Cross River State.

13/03/2026

DG CRSPHCDA Flags Off Statewide 2026 School-Based Deworming Campaign

The Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA), Dr. Vivien Mesembe Otu, has officially flagged off the 2026 School-Based Deworming Campaign aimed at improving the health and academic performance of school children across the state.

The flag-off ceremony took place at Government Technical College, Mayne Avenue, Calabar, marking the commencement of the week-long health intervention targeted at school-aged children.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Otu described the initiative as a critical step in protecting children from Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH)—parasitic infections that can cause anemia, malnutrition, and hinder the cognitive development of children.

She explained that by tackling these infections early, the programme would help improve school attendance, learning outcomes, and the overall wellbeing of children in the state.

The campaign, themed “Deworming is Good for Children, Deworm Them Today,” is being implemented with the strategic support of Evidence Action and is expected to reach thousands of children across 14 Local Government Areas in Cross River State.

According to the agency, the exercise, scheduled to run from March 11 to March 17, 2026, targets children between the ages of five and 14 years, who will receive safe and effective deworming medication through a school-based distribution system.

Dr. Otu noted that the programme aligns with the “People First” agenda of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, which prioritizes the health and wellbeing of citizens, particularly children.

“Our goal is to ensure that no child in the targeted LGAs is left behind. We urge parents, teachers and community leaders to cooperate with health workers to ensure the success of this exercise,” she said.

The Director General further reiterated the commitment of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency to strengthening primary healthcare delivery in the state, especially in areas of maternal and child health, immunization, and disease prevention.

Health officials at the event also emphasized that regular deworming remains a key public health intervention recommended globally to improve child growth, nutrition, and school performance.

The campaign is expected to significantly reduce the burden of parasitic infections among school children and contribute to a healthier and more productive young population in Cross River State.

12/03/2026

APC Chieftain, Engr. Dr. Abang Congratulates Newly Inaugurated APC Ward Executives in Etung

The former Director General of the Cross River State Environmental Protection Agency and Founder/Chief Executive Officer of the Abon Abang Foundation Initiative, Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang, has congratulated the newly inaugurated Ward Executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State.

In a congratulatory message following their inauguration at the Etung Local Government Council Secretariat in Effraya on Wednesday, Dr. Abang described their emergence and subsequent inauguration as a significant step toward strengthening the party’s grassroots structure and consolidating its support base ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He commended the leadership of the party in Etung Local Government Area, led by the Chapter Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Ndum, for the successful inauguration and expressed confidence in the capacity of the new ward executives to provide purposeful leadership and deepen the party’s presence across the wards in the local government area.

Dr. Abang urged the ward leaders to see their emergence as a call to service, encouraging them to promote unity among party members, expand the party’s membership base, and sustain effective grassroots mobilization in their respective wards.

According to him, strong ward structures remain the backbone of every successful political party, stressing that the dedication and commitment of ward executives will play a vital role in positioning the APC for continued electoral success.

He further advised the new executives to work closely with the Chapter Chairman, his executive committee, other leaders, stakeholders, and party faithful to build a cohesive and formidable party structure capable of delivering victory for the APC in future elections.

Dr. Abang also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting ideologies and initiatives that promote grassroots development, unity, and the growth of the APC in Etung and across Cross River State.

He wished the newly inaugurated ward executives a successful and impactful tenure as they work to advance the ideals and objectives of the party in the area.

11/03/2026

Cross River Sensitizes, Onboards New BHCPF Facilities to Strengthen Primary Healthcare

The Cross River State Government has intensified efforts to strengthen Primary Health Care (PHC) delivery with the sensitization, engagement, and onboarding of newly approved facilities under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) across the state.

The exercise, which took place across the Northern, Central, and Southern Senatorial Districts, was aimed at equipping facility managers and health workers with the operational knowledge required for effective implementation of the BHCPF programme.

The activities began with sensitization and onboarding sessions for newly selected facilities in the Northern Senatorial District, where participants were introduced to the objectives, operational framework, and implementation guidelines of the BHCPF programme. Health workers were trained on effective utilization of funds, financial accountability, service delivery standards, reporting procedures, and strategies for community sensitization to improve the use of health services at the facility level.

In her opening remarks, the Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Vivien Mesembe Otu, welcomed participants and appreciated stakeholders and development partners for their continued support toward improving primary health care services in the state.

She urged health facilities to intensify efforts in improving the quality of care, service delivery, community sensitization, and mobilization of residents to health facilities in order to boost service uptake.

Dr. Otu also addressed challenges affecting service delivery across some facilities, encouraging those with low performance to strive to meet established standards, while high-performing facilities should maintain and improve their performance. She assured participants that the agency would continue to closely monitor facility performance to ensure improved outcomes across the state.

She further encouraged the newly onboarded facilities to maximize the opportunity provided by the BHCPF programme to strengthen healthcare delivery in their communities and ensure that their facilities remain top-performing.

Similar onboarding sessions were subsequently conducted in the Central and Southern Senatorial Districts, bringing together facility managers, Local Government health authorities, and other stakeholders. The sessions focused on strengthening understanding of BHCPF operational procedures, fund management systems, data reporting requirements, and quality improvement measures needed to ensure efficient and effective primary health care services.

A key aspect of the programme was the BHCPF stakeholders’ engagement meeting, which provided a platform for implementing partners and stakeholders to review programme implementation, assess progress, and discuss challenges affecting service delivery and utilization.

A major highlight of the event was the formal onboarding of the newly approved BHCPF facilities, carried out by Dr. Otu, who officially welcomed them into the programme.

The event was attended by key stakeholders and partners, including representatives from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency, CHAMPS, and other development partners working to strengthen primary health care delivery in the state.

09/03/2026

Bringing Governance Closer: How Governor Bassey Otu Is Getting It Right with the Ogoja Governor's Lodge

You know, Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has done something that a lot of people are really happy about. He decided to build a new Governor's Lodge in Ogoja for the Cross River North Senatorial District. And honestly, many are seeing this as a smart move to bring government closer to the people up north.

Here's the thing: for many years, everything about government in Cross River State has been centered in Calabar. That's where the governor stays, where offices are, where decisions get made. And while that makes sense in some ways, it also means that communities across the Local Government Areas in the Northern Senatorial District often feel far away from all the action. If you live in places like Ogoja, Obudu, Obanliku, Yala or Bekwarra, going to Calabar is a long journey. So sometimes, people up there feel forgotten or left out.

But Governor Otu is trying to change that story. Back in December 2024, he went to Ogoja town to lay the foundation for this new Governor's Lodge. That was his way of saying, "Look, my government cares about the north, and we want to be present here."

Why Ogoja though? Well, Ogoja is like the meeting point for all the northern local government areas. You have Yala, Bekwarra, Obudu, Obanliku, and Ogoja itself. So if you put a governor's lodge there, it becomes a kind of government base. From there, the governor and his team can easily reach out to all these different communities.

And it's not just about having a place to sleep when the governor visits. No, this place is going to be well equipped. The ongoing construction have a proper residence for the governor, office spaces where work can be done, a banquet hall for events, apartments for workers, accommodation for guess, kitchen facilities, and other things that will make it easy for government work to happen smoothly whenever the governor is around. But that's not all, the project will also include a residence and office space for the Deputy Governor. This means both the governor and his deputy can operate effectively from the north whenever needed. So Ogoja will really become like a mini government headquarters for the north.

Just on Sunday, the Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, paid a surprise visit to the site, which sits on a landmass of about 12,000 sqm in Igoli, Ogoja Local Government Area. He didn't tell anyone he was coming. He just showed up to see for himself how the work is going. And guess what? He met workers on ground and was impressed. He said the contractors are working fast and the quality of the work is good. He described the project as massive and said it shows that this government is serious about delivering good infrastructure everywhere in the state, not just in Calabar. You could tell he was happy, especially knowing that soon he will have his own official base up north too.

The Deputy Governor also made an important point. He said this lodge will really help to strengthen the connection between the government and the grassroots communities up north. When the governor and deputy governor can stay and work from Ogoja from time to time, they get to hear firsthand what the people are going through. They can respond faster to their problems. And that is what governance should be about-that's Governor Otu's "People First" mantra, his belief, and what he has activated.

This whole project actually fits into what Governor Otu calls "people-centered governance." His thinking is simple: development shouldn't just be concentrated in one place or senatorial district, It should reach every part of the state. So by building this lodge in Ogoja with facilities for both the governor and his deputy, he's showing that every part of the state matters, that the people there need to feel governance more closer.

For the people of Northern Cross River, this lodge means more than just bricks and mortar. It's a sign that they are seen and included. It tells them that the government remembers them and wants to work closely with them. It brings hope that things will get better. And if the creation of Ogoja state ever comes to fruition, this government lodge will be a solid foundation to build upon.

However, the supervisory department led by Mr. Ralph Adoga Morphy, Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects, Programs, Monitoring and Evaluation, must be commended for their diligence in overseeing this project and ensuring that work continues according to specification.

At the end of the day, Governor Otu is trying to change the way government works in Cross River State. Instead of being something distant that people only hear about, he wants it to be something close, something people can touch and feel. And if this project continues well, the Ogoja Governor's Lodge will stand as proof that leadership can truly reach the grassroots.

© Owai Obo

04/03/2026

APC State Congress: Mrs Monica Ugi Thanks Governor Otu, Pledges Inclusive Leadership as APC State Woman Leader

Mrs. Monica Ugi has expressed her gratitude following her emergence as State Woman Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State at the party’s congress held yesterday at the U. J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar.

In her message of appreciation, Mrs. Ugi extended sincere thanks to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for their encouragement and support. She also acknowledged party leaders, delegates, and members for entrusting her with this important leadership role within the party.

She assured women across the state that her leadership would be anchored on inclusiveness, representation, and empowerment. Mrs. Ugi promised to create platforms for women to participate actively in politics, contribute to party decision-making, and ensure that their voices are heard at all levels of governance.

She emphasized that unity, collaboration, and grassroots engagement would be her priority in advancing the party’s objectives, in line with the “People First” mantra of Governor Bassey Otu and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Mrs. Ugi called on all party faithful, especially women, to work together in advancing the party’s objectives and promoting grassroots engagement across the state.

© crossriverblog

02/03/2026

Obudu Council Chairman Undiandeye Hails Governor Otu on Silverbird Man of the Year Honour

The Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon. Sir Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, PhD, has commended Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, on his recognition as Silverbird Man of the Year at a ceremony held in Lagos on Sunday.

Reacting on the sidelines of the event, Undiandeye described the honour as richly deserved, noting that it reflects the Governor’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the growth and transformation of Cross River State.

He stated that the award serves as national validation of the Governor’s “People First” philosophy, which he said has driven efforts to rebuild critical institutions and reposition the state for sustainable progress.

Ntufam Undiandeye further stated that since assuming office, Governor Otu has championed an ambitious development agenda centered on industrial growth, infrastructure renewal, and environmental sustainability. His administration has initiated key road construction projects, promoted investment in manufacturing, and implemented community-based programmes designed to empower women and support vulnerable populations across the state.

The Obudu Council Chairman further commended Governor Otu’s inclusive and people-oriented policies, emphasizing that local government areas, including Obudu, have felt the positive impact of the administration’s developmental initiatives.

Undiandeye expressed optimism that the recognition would inspire the Governor to scale up ongoing reforms and infrastructural expansion, pledging his continued loyalty and support of the people of Obudu Local Government Area.

The carnival-like event was attended by the deputy governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. (Dr) Emmanuel Ironbar, members of the National and State House of Assembly, Council Chairmen, top government officials and prominent personalities across the country.

Ikwen Atuaka
Chief Press Secretary to the
Chairman, Obudu Local Government Council

02/03/2026

23/02/2026

Deputy Gov. Odey Performs Ceremonial Tee-Off at Eastern Naval Command Golf Tournament 2026

…Affirms State’s Status as One of Nigeria’s Safest Sub-Nationals

The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, on Saturday performed the ceremonial tee-off at the 2026 Eastern Naval Command Golf Tournament held at the Calabar Golf Club in Calabar.

Speaking shortly after the ceremonial tee-off, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Odey, commended the Nigerian Navy for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and ensuring maritime security. He described the tournament as a commendable initiative that promotes not only physical fitness but also mental resilience, as well as stronger collaboration between security agencies and the state government.

Rt. Hon. Odey reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Otu-led administration, to sustaining cordial working relationships with security formations in the state. He noted that peace and security remain critical to the socio-economic development of the state, particularly in tourism, investment, and commerce, adding that the state remains one of the safest sub-nationals in the country.

In his remarks, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Donald Okehie, emphasized the importance of physical fitness, mental resilience, and social engagement in enhancing the operational efficiency of naval personnel.

He appreciated the presence of the Deputy Governor and other dignitaries, stating that the tournament provides a platform to deepen bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the Navy and civil community. According to him, beyond the physical benefits the tournament offers, he revealed that the golf tourney offer valuable networking opportunities that enable participants to interact and build meaningful relationships, thereby strengthening civil-military cooperation in the state and beyond.

Rear Admiral Okehie further disclosed that the Command has lined up additional sporting activities in the coming months, including a football tournament and regular basketball competitions, all aimed at fostering teamwork, discipline, and esprit de corps among personnel.

Delivering his goodwill message, the Captain of the Calabar Golf Club, Engr. Bassey Nkposong, described the tournament as a symbol of shared commitment to healthy competition, discipline, camaraderie, and sportsmanship among military and civilian golfers.

He commended the Eastern Naval Command for its continued support and sponsorship, noting that the partnership has strengthened both the game of golf and the cordial relationship between the military and the civil community in the State.

The event, which attracted senior military officers, government officials, and golf enthusiasts, featured competitive rounds of golf, networking sessions, and social engagements.

Deputy Governor's Press Unit, Government House, Calabar.

22/02/2026

Cross River APC Congresses Peaceful and Seamless - Abang Applauds Otu, Supports Tinubu

…congratulates the Etung and Obubra Chapter Chairmen, along with sixteen other chapter chairmen, on their emergence.

The former Director General of the Cross River State Environmental Protection Agency, Engr. George Ndifon Abang, PhD, has commended the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, for the successful conduct of the ward and local government chapter congresses of the All Progressives Congress (APC), held on February 18 and 21, 2026, respectively.

Engr. Abang gave the commendation in an interview with journalists in Effraya, Etung Local Government Area, shortly after the conclusion of the Local Government Chapter Congress on Saturday.

He described the congresses as seamless, rancour-free, and peaceful, attributing their success to Governor Otu’s inclusive leadership style and calm disposition. According to him, the orderly and transparent process reflects the growing unity and internal democracy within the APC in Cross River State.

Abang further noted that the peaceful atmosphere and high level of organization witnessed during the congress underscore the governor’s commitment to strengthening party structures and ensuring that all stakeholders are carried along.

In the same vein, Engr. Abang reaffirmed his unwavering support for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing his leadership as pivotal to the ongoing reforms and national development agenda under the Renewed Hope initiative. He called on party faithful and Nigerians at large to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration in its efforts to reposition the country for sustainable growth and prosperity.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Abon Abang Foundation, Dr. Abang, also congratulated Mr. Emmanuel Mbeh Ndum, APC Chapter Chairman-elect, Etung Local Government Chapter, his Obubra counterpart, Mr. Lucky Okpechi, and sixteen others on their emergence, expressing confidence in their ability to consolidate the party’s gains at the grassroots level.

He urged party members across the state to remain united and steadfast in their support for both Governor Otu and President Tinubu, emphasizing that sustained collaboration between the state and federal leadership would further advance development in Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole.

©GMedia

22/02/2026

Abang Recognised for Advancing Education and Youth Empowerment in Cross River, South-south Region

For his philanthropic efforts in complementing government initiatives within the education sector and collaborating with stakeholders to improve access to quality education in Cross River State and beyond, as well as in recognition of his outstanding contributions to humanity and unwavering support for the student community, Engr. George Ndifon Abang, PhD, has been conferred with an Ambassadorial Award by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-South Zone B.

Presenting the award, the Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students, South-South Zone B, Comr. Emmanuel Iwara, commended Engr. Abang for his sustained commitment to educational advancement and youth empowerment across the state and the South-South geopolitical zone, especially in Etung and Obubra LGAs.

According to the student body, Engr. Abang’s interventions through his foundation have consistently impacted pupils and students at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. His initiatives, they noted, have provided not only material support but also hope and encouragement to young people striving for academic excellence despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.

Particularly noteworthy are his widely acclaimed “Back to School” campaign and campaign against gender-based violence-initiatives designed to equip students with essential learning materials, reduce barriers to education, and create awareness about gender-related violence. Through these campaigns, hundreds of beneficiaries have received school supplies and moral support, reinforcing the importance of education as a catalyst for personal and societal development.

Speaking further, Comrade Iwara described Engr. Abang as “a beacon of inspiration to the younger generation,” emphasizing that his consistent outreach demonstrates a genuine passion for shaping the future through education.

Responding to the honour, Engr. Abang expressed deep appreciation to NANS Zone B for the recognition, describing the award as both humbling and inspiring. He noted that the honour serves as a renewed call to intensify efforts toward advancing education and youth development in the state.

He reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that uplift students and promote academic excellence, emphasizing that education remains the most sustainable pathway to development and progress. According to him, empowering young people with the right support and opportunities is key to building a productive and prosperous society.

Engr. Abang also called on stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to prioritize investment in human capital development, stressing that collective action is essential to securing a brighter future for the next generation.

The event was witnessed by the Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung and other members of the students delegation.

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