NEWS
Governor Bassey Otu Flags Off Akamkpa Electrification Project, Reaffirms People-First Agenda

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has flagged off the rehabilitation of the Akamkpa electrification network, stretching from Awi to Uyanga, in a major step toward restoring power to the area.Represented by the Director General of the Cross River State Electrification Agency (CRSEA), Mr.
Francis Ekpo, Governor Otu’s administration reiterated its commitment to providing basic infrastructure and improving the quality of life in rural communities across the state. Speaking during the official flag-off ceremony, Mr. Ekpo explained that the rehabilitation marks a complete overhaul of the collapsed power network in the region, as directed by the Governor. He emphasized that the project is part of a broader statewide push to restore electricity and accelerate development in underserved areas.“The Governor is fully committed to ensuring that communities like Awi and Uyanga are not left behind in the state’s development drive,” Mr. Ekpo said. “His Excellency has approved the complete rehabilitation of this power line, and work will commence immediately.”The Executive Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. Felix Akposi, expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for his leadership and responsiveness. He described the electrification project as a long-awaited intervention and thanked the Governor for delivering on one of his key campaign promises.“This administration has shown sincerity and action. We, the people of Akamkpa, are grateful and fully in support of the Governor’s vision for development,” Hon. Akposi stated.Also speaking, the Member representing Akamkpa I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Okon Owuna, praised the Governor for what he called “unprecedented fulfillment” of promises made during the campaign period.“From establishing the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa to the construction of strategic roads and now this electrification project, His Excellency is delivering real impact,” Hon. Owuna said. “We, as a people, remain grateful and will continue to stand with this government.”The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Ankpo, and Chairman of the State House of Assembly Commission, Hon. Victor, were also present at the flag-off. Both officials commended the Governor’s people-centered governance approach and pledged continued support from their offices.The youth, women, and student representatives took turns to express their readiness to safeguard the infrastructure and support the ongoing development in their communities. The Youth Leader particularly promised that the youths would work with local authorities to prevent any form of vandalism or sabotage of the rehabilitated power infrastructure.NEWS
Adamawa Health Supply Management Agency Revolutionizes Drug Procurement

From Yagana Ali, Yola
The Adamawa State Health Supply Management Agency has introduced sweeping reforms in the state’s healthcare delivery system, ensuring an uninterrupted supply of quality medicines to health facilities across the state.The agency’s Executive Secretary, Dauda Deri disclosed that the new system allows the state to procure drugs directly from certified pharmaceutical manufacturers, cutting out middlemen and guaranteeing quality, safety and affordability.
The new system enables the state to receive supplies directly from manufacturers, ensuring that every batch of drugs can be traced and any problems swiftly addressed.This development is a significant step towards eliminating substandard medications and improving the overall quality of healthcare in the state.Deri emphasized that the centralization of drug procurement with reliable data has not only improved efficiency but also reduced costs, making medicines more affordable for both the poor and the general public. Governor Fintiri’s prioritization of healthcare has been instrumental to the agency’s success, and the state’s swift establishment of the Health Supply Management Agency has been recognized nationally.The agency’s recapitalization has also revitalized the pharmacy profession in the state, with pharmacists who previously left the state for better opportunities returning to Adamawa. The government has provided all necessary working tools, encouraging pharmacists to join the civil service.With newly built hospitals, upgraded facilities, and a steady supply of quality drugs, the Adamawa State Health Supply Management Agency is setting a new standard for healthcare delivery in the region. The agency’s efforts are expected to improve the health and well-being of the people of Adamawa State, and its success serves as a model for other states in Nigeria.NEWS
AFRO Awards 2025: Film Director Lauds Philanthropists, Organizations on Humanitarian Services
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A US based Film Director, Taiwo Oduala has commended the unprecedented achievements and humanitarian services being rendered to the less privileged by philanthropists and corporate organisations.Oduala gave the commendation while speaking with newsmen on Monday in Lokoja.
The Nigerian born film director, who hosts the Afro Awards in Los Angeles, America, said life is all about service to God and humanity, no matter how low or highly placed in the society. He said that the love for mankind that some individuals and organizations are displaying across the globe gave birth to the Afro Awards four years ago.The founder and executive producer of the Afro Awards, said the awards were solely aimed to recognize and honor individuals, who have demonstrated exceptional humanitarian excellence in various fields.”The first event was held on Nov. 6, 2022, at Regal La Live, 1000 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, California and hopefully by Oct. 24, we shall be holding the 4th edition of the award.”The Afro Awards has hosted and honored over 5,000 individuals since its inception, recognizing their contributions to humanitarianism and philanthropy in American and African communities alike,” he said.According to him, the 2025 event promises an unforgettable evening of glitz, glamour, and powerful recognition of individuals who have made outstanding contributions to humanity, leadership, arts, entertainment, and global excellence.He added, “AFRO Awards is an international celebration dedicated to honoring the achievements of individuals and organizations that exemplify humanitarian values and excellence in their respective fields.”Looking at the past honorees including global icons, philanthropists, and change-makers, we believe the AFRO awards will continue to stand as a symbol of unity, inspiration, and cultural pride.”NEWS
Kogi Monarch Hails Ododo’s Leadership Style, Promises Peace Maintenance

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
His Royal Majesty, Oba Johnson Kolade Otitoju, the Akinrin of Ekinrin in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi state has commended Governor Usman Ododo’s Leadership Style with a promise to complement government’s efforts in maintaining peace and order in his domain.
He said Governor Ododo’s administration has been impactful and demonstrated a high level of human face leadership capacity. His Royal Majesty gave the commendation while speaking at the one-year anniversary of his receipt of the staff of office as a first-class traditional ruler.”One year ago, the Akinrin of Ekinrin was honored with the staff of office by Governor Usman Ododo during a colorful ceremony attended by a large crowd at the Kogi State Government House’s Glass House in Lokoja, Kogi State. Myself and my subjects remain eternally grateful to the Governor and will continue to be solidly behind your people-oriented administration”When God says yes, no individual or group can say no. I, Oba Johnson Kolade Otitoju, the Akinrin of Ekinrin, am profoundly grateful to God for this gesture. On behalf of the Ekinrin community in Ekinrin-Adde, I also extend my gratitude to the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for elevating the Ekinrin throne to its first-class status.”The two significant events—the grading of the stool and the presentation of the staff of office—are truly memorable. To God be the glory.”I would like to thank all the friends of Akinrin and the Ekinrin community, both in Ekinrin-Adde and beyond, who have congratulated Oba Akinrin and the Ekinrin community. Thank you, good people!”Let me reiterate what I often say: our unity is not only our strength; it is also our path to progress and the ultimate reason we are here. I encourage all of you to love one another, for God is love. Congratulations to everyone in Ekinrin-Adde”