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FCT NUJ CORRESPONDENTS’ CHAPEL CONGRATULATES COMRADE EBBRIKU JOHN FRIDAY ON APPOINTMENT AS SSA TO GOV. BASSEY OTU

The FCT NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel has extended its warmest congratulations to Comrade Ebriku John Friday on his appointment as Senior Special Adviser on Data Analytics to the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu. In a statement signed by Chairman Felix Ojo and Secretary Henrietta Momodu, the chapel described the appointment as a testament to Comrade Friday’s exceptional skills, dedication, and commitment to excellence in his field. Chairman Felix Ojo said the appointment is a recognition of Ebriku John Friday’s expertise in journalism, digital media, and advocacy for good governance, civic accountability, and youth empowerment. “This appointment is a testament to Comrade Friday’s exceptional skills, dedication, and commitment to excellence in his field,” Ojo stated. Ebriku John Friday’s media reputation and professionalism, built through his work with prominent newspaper companies and online platforms, will undoubtedly be invaluable assets in his new role. The chapel is proud of Ebriku John Friday’s achievements and is confident that he will make a significant impact in his new position. “We salute Governor Otu for recognizing the abilities of our member and the wealth of experience he will bring to bear on his appointment,” the statement read. The chapel looks forward to seeing the positive changes Ebriku John Friday’s appointment will bring to Cross River State and beyond.

CROSS RIVER STATE GOVERNMENT TO RECONSTRUCT OBUDU RANCH RESORT

The Cross River State Government has finalized plans to comprehensively reconstruct the iconic Obudu Ranch Resort, with the aim of reestablishing the state as a leading force in Nigeria’s tourism landscape. According to Mr. Sunday Michael, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Obudu Ranch Resort, a redesigned architectural and infrastructural model for the ranch has already been completed, paving the way for the commencement of full-scale reconstruction work. The redevelopment initiative is not merely a facelift but a deliberate effort to transform the resort into a top-tier eco-tourism destination. “The essence of this project is to revitalise and reposition Obudu Ranch Resort as a premier eco-tourism hub, offering modern facilities and international-standard amenities,” Michael stated. The redesigned resort will highlight the state’s exceptional natural landscape and celebrate its rich cultural heritage, which together will attract both domestic and international tourists. Beyond boosting tourism, the project is expected to stimulate broader economic benefits. “This reconstruction will not only enhance the state’s tourism appeal but will also create employment opportunities, stimulate local economies, and increase internally generated revenue,” Michael explained. The initiative reflects Governor Bassey Otu’s unwavering commitment to the development and promotion of the tourism sector in Cross River. “The Governor is fully dedicated to restoring the resort’s former glory and positioning it as a centerpiece of the state’s economic diversification strategy,” Michael added. With the planned reconstruction of the Obudu Ranch Resort, Cross River State is poised to reclaim its place as a prominent tourism destination in Nigeria and West Africa.

GOVERNOR OTU BOOSTS SECURITY IN CROSS RIVER WITH 30 VEHICLES

Governor Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security in Cross River State by renaming the state’s joint security outfit from Operation Akpakwu to Operation Okwok and equipping it with 30 operational vehicles. This marks the first phase of a larger plan to deploy a total of 100 vehicles to enhance security operations across the state. The joint task force comprises personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police, Air Force, Navy, Department of State Services (DSS), Immigration Service, and Correctional Service. Governor Otu emphasized his administration’s zero-tolerance to crime, noting that his leadership’s morale-boosting support for security agencies began with infrastructure upgrades, including improved internal roads network and remodeled buildings within security formations. “Cross River State is safer than ever,” the governor declared. “Cases of kidnapping have declined significantly, and robbery is nearly nonexistent. These achievements are due to the dedication of our security forces.” He reiterated that no one, regardless of status, would be exempt if found culpable to crime. “We are committed to ensuring peace, and anyone who threatens that peace will face the full weight of the law,” he warned. Governor Otu also outlined future security plans to include strengthening marine patrols, acquiring gunboats and drones for advanced surveillance, and recruiting personnel for a homeland security structure to enhance security. He assured investors that Cross River remains a secure destination for business, with the government dedicated to protecting investments and ensuring security. The State Security Adviser, Major General Okoi Ubi Obono (Rtd), described the initiative as a milestone in the state’s fight against crime. He explained the significance of the new name, Operation Okwok, an Efik word for “bee.” “Don’t let the sweetness of the bees fool you. Bees are highly territorial and fiercely protect their hive. Just like that, Operation Okwok is here to secure Cross River—producing honey when needed but stinging when provoked,” he said. The Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Augustine Grimah, commended Governor Otu’s unwavering support for security agencies, calling the donation a “festival of vehicles.” With this initiative, Governor Otu continues to prioritize security, positioning Cross River as a model for proactive governance in crime prevention and law enforcement.