Monthly Archives: September 2025

SENATOR PROF. STEPHEN ODEY DONATES ₦10 MILLION FOR THE IMMEDIATE RECONSTRUCTION OF ORIERIE BRIDGE, UCHU – YACHE

Posted on by

0

In a pragmatic show of love and solidarity, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, Commissioner for Education, Cross River State, has risen to the occasion following the recent collapse of the Orierie Bridge in Uchu–Yache, his immediate community and hometown. The bridge, which served as the community’s only link across the river, was completely destroyed by torrential rainfall and flooding, leaving children stranded from going to school, farmers unable to take their produce to markets, and families cut off from loved ones, leaders, and their Clan Head across the river.

Deeply pained by the devastation, Senator Odey—visited the site of the disaster on Saturday, September 27, 2025 and, moved with compassion, presented a ₦10 million donation to kick-start the immediate reconstruction of the bridge. “It is only when my people are happy that I am happy,” he said, as he mobilized the community for collective action. Overwhelmed by this gesture, Evangelist James Eblabor also supported with  ₦500,000 donation. Senator Odey emphasized that the intervention was to complement the efforts of Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, which is already constructing the Yache-Alifokpa Road and Akreha Bridge. “This is a sacrifice I must make, and I will continue to mobilize my community to actualize it,” he added as he further called on the sons and daughters of Uchu–Yache, both at home and in the diaspora, to join hands in ensuring the successful rebuilding of the collapsed bridge.

In an outpouring of gratitude, the people of Uchu–Yache hailed Senator Odey for his swift and consistent interventions, praying for God’s blessings, protection, and elevation upon him. They also reaffirmed their unwavering support for Governor Bassey Otu’s government and commended the ongoing infrastructural projects in Yache nation.

By SaintAugustine Adula Odey

C’RIVER EDUCATION COMMISSIONER ENGAGES PRINCIPALS, HEAD TEACHERS & STAKEHOLDERS IN OGOJA ON EDUCATION REFORMS

Posted on by

0

In continuation of the statewide review of education policies, the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Prof. Stephen Odey, on Thursday engaged Principals and Head Teachers of the Northern Educational Zone—comprising Ogoja, Yala, Obudu, Bekwarra, and Obanliku LGAs—on the implementation of reforms for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The meeting, held at Government Secondary School, Igoli-Ogoja, also had in attendance the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Dr. Mrs. Afiong Ugbaja; representatives of the Executive Chairman of CR-SUBEB; Permanent Secretaries from the Ministry of Education and the Secondary Education Board; Directors, Education Secretaries, Coordinating Supervisory Directors, as well as leaders of NUT and ANCOPPS.

Prof. Odey described the forum as an opportunity to assess the performance of the state’s education sector, celebrate achievements, and address challenges. He reaffirmed Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to making education a top priority and urged school administrators to deliver diligently on their responsibilities.

The Commissioner announced the imminent commencement of external examination registration, directing heads of schools to ensure prompt and accurate data uploads to avoid delays. He further disclosed that JSS3 certificates are currently being compiled for distribution and emphasized the importance of Student Index Numbers for proper record-keeping, student tracking, and curbing unnecessary transfers.

Prof. Odey charged schools to maintain accurate student data, remit all approved levies, and report unapproved institutions, stressing that illegal schools will be shut down immediately. He revealed that teachers will soon undergo retraining to enhance data management and ensure full compliance with the new national curriculum.

Highlighting other policy measures, the Commissioner spoke on the recruitment of additional teachers, staff promotions, and Governor Otu’s commitment to addressing these needs. He cautioned against truancy and negligence of duty, reminding teachers that “the future of our children must remain the top priority.”

He further emphasized that all schools must maintain cleanliness, proper nominal rolls, use only approved textbooks, and establish anti-drug and anti-bullying clubs. Prof. Odey also announced strict compliance with the new closing times—1:00 p.m. for primary schools and 2:00 p.m. for secondary schools—adding that extra lessons after official hours will no longer be allowed to help learners retain knowledge without undue stress.

The interactive meeting was well-attended by critical stakeholders across the state’s education sector.

By SaintAugustine Adula Odey

C’RIVER STATE ROLLS OUT SWEEPING EDUCATION REFORMS TO STRENGTHEN STANDARDS AND PROTECT PUPILS

Posted on by

0

The Cross River State Government has unveiled a comprehensive package of education policy reforms designed to standardize practices in public and private schools, safeguard pupils’ welfare, and improve data management across the state.

The reforms, approved by His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, were announced earlier today by the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, during a press briefing in Calabar. The Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Governor for endorsing the reforms, describing them as “a significant step toward achieving holistic, quality education for all Cross River children.”

Key Highlights of the Reforms:

1. Uniform Academic Calendar
All public and private schools must now follow a single approved calendar for opening and closing. Schools that fail to comply risk sanctions, including derecognition and withholding of approval-to-operate (ATO).

2. Graduation Ceremonies
Graduation events are now reserved strictly for certificate classes—Primary 6, JSS3, and SS3. Ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and non-exit classes have been abolished to reduce unnecessary costs for parents.

3. Use of Approved Textbooks
Only Ministry-approved textbooks will be permitted in schools. Publishers are prohibited from embedding workbooks that make textbooks non-transferable, ensuring uniformity, cost savings, and reuse among pupils.

4. School Lessons After 2:00 PM Prohibited
Schools are directed to end classes at 1:00 pm for primary and 2:00 pm for secondary levels. Compulsory after-school lessons are banned to prevent mental fatigue, physical stress, and additional financial burdens on parents. Extra lessons may only occur with parental consent, and the Ministry will not be responsible for any issues arising outside the approved schedule.

5. Establishment of Anti-Drug Clubs
To combat rising drug use among students, every public and private school must establish anti-drug clubs. These clubs will monitor and report incidents, raise awareness, and work with authorities to enforce discipline.

6. Bullying Prevention Measures
Anti-Bullying Committees are now mandatory in all schools. Any student caught bullying will face instant expulsion to deter misconduct. The initiative aims to create a safer and more respectful learning environment.

7. Pupils/Students Index Number System
Beginning with the 2025/2026 academic session, all pupils—from Kindergarten to SS3—will be assigned a unique index number. The new system will improve data accuracy, prevent fraudulent transfers, and streamline admissions. Distribution of index numbers will begin in early 2026 once admission documentation is complete.

Implementation and Compliance:
The Commissioner emphasized that implementation takes effect immediately.
• School managers and proprietors must comply without delay.
• Strict adherence is expected, and violators will face sanctions.
• Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor these reforms and provide feedback to ensure the policies achieve their intended goals.

The Commissioner – Professor Odey concluded, “These reforms are about safeguarding our children’s future, improving standards, and making Cross River State’s education system a model for others to follow. With the Governor’s support and the cooperation of all stakeholders, we are confident of achieving lasting change.”

By SaintAugustine Adula Odey

C’River Education Commissioner Meets Proprietors of Private Schools, Announces Sweeping Reforms

Posted on by

0

The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, has unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at strengthening the state’s education sector. He made the announcements on Thursday (September 4, 2025) during a meeting with proprietors of private schools at the West African People’s Institute (WAPI), Calabar.

The meeting, held in line with Governor Bassey Otu’s mandate to reposition education in the state, addressed illegal school operations, compliance with academic calendars, digitalization of exam results, and stricter teacher qualification standards.

Professor Odey warned that schools operating without proper registration, including a Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) certificate, would face closure. He also ordered full compliance with the official school calendar and announced that student results and certificates have been digitized to curb fraud.

To strengthen planning and attract donor support, the Commissioner emphasized the need for accurate student data, while introducing a Student Index Number (SIN) system that will track pupils from Primary 1 and JSS 1 through their schooling.

Other directives include:

*Ban on publishers transacting directly with schools pending release of approved textbook list.

*NCE as the minimum teaching qualification; degree holders required for senior secondary classes.

*Mandatory annual teacher training at the Teachers’ Continuous Training Institute, Biase.

*Compulsory establishment of school clubs, including Anti-Drug, Anti-Bullying, Young Farmers, and JET Clubs.

*Strict excursion protocols, requiring notification of zonal offices for safety accountability.

*The Commissioner also highlighted state investments such as the remodeled State Library Complex and the new University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa, aimed at blending academic learning with practical skills.

Senator Professor Stephen Odey, stressed that these reforms are binding policies as the 2025/2026 academic year begins on September 15. “To run a school in Cross River State, you must follow due process. These directives are not mere discussions but enforceable policies,” he said.

Pastor Abraham Osok, Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) Cross River State, pledged compliance and commended the Commissioner for his efforts towards repositioning the State education sector.

By SaintAugustine Adula Odey

PRESS RELEASE

Posted on by

0

The Resolution of the Meeting Summoned by Speaker Ayambem: Truth vs Fiction

The attention of the Media Team of the Chairman of Yala Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Fred Okem, has been drawn to malicious and misleading publications circulating on social media alleging that the Chairman has been impeached or suspended for three months by the legislative council.

We wish to state categorically that those reports are false, baseless, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.
For the avoidance of doubt, the facts are as follows:

  1. At no time was Hon. Dr. Fred Okem given a three-month suspension, pending when he clears himself of councillors allegations as insinuated by social media falsehood peddlers. What took place was a meeting convened by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, involving the Chairman of Yala LGA and the Councillors. In attendance also was the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor.
  2. Contrary to those false claims, no resolution of impeachment or suspension was passed. Instead, the meeting was held to address their differences and it was resolved that all parties ( Chairman and Councillors), should sheath their sword and work in harmony, and that both parties should maintain the statusquo, for the peace, love, unity and prosperity of Yala.
  3. The Speaker further emphasized the importance of harmony, urging both sides to work together in mutual respect and understanding, with cooperation rooted in prosperity, peace, and love for Yala.
  4. It is therefore mischievous for anyone to twist the outcome of the meeting to suggest that the Chairman has been suspended or impeached. Such rumors are aimed at creating unnecessary tension and distracting the Council leadership from its mandate of service to the people.

We urge the good people of Yala, and indeed the general public, to disregard these falsehoods and treat them as the handiwork of mischief makers. Hon. Dr. Fred Okem remains the duly elected and serving Chairman of Yala Local Government Area and is fully committed to working with all stakeholders, including the Councillors, for the peace, unity, and development of our dear LGA.

Emmanuel Unah
Chief Press Secretary to Chairman
Yala Local Government Area

EXECUTIVES OF NAPPS CROSS RIVER BRANCH PAY A CONGRATULATORY VISIT TO THE CHIEF EDUCATION OFFICER OF THE STATE

Posted on by

0

The leadership of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Cross River State, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to Senator Professor Stephen Odey, Commissioner for Education, Cross River State.

The delegation led by Pastor Abraham Osok, congratulated Senator Odey on his recent elevation to the rank of Professor and commended him for his ongoing reforms in the education sector. They particularly applauded the ministry’s digitalization initiatives and the prompt release of placement results online, noting that such innovations are advancing education delivery in the state.

Responding, Senator Professor Odey, expressed appreciation to NAPPS for the recognition and acknowledged their vital role in supporting the State education sector. He stressed the need for continuous collaboration with the ministry, adding that education is a global enterprise that requires synergy and innovation. The Commissioner also encouraged all proprietors to attend the mandatory stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for the following day, Thursday, September 4, 2025, where key issues affecting private schools and the sector at large would be discussed.

The Permanent Secretary, Barr. Francis Oyije, urged NAPPS executives to ensure strict compliance with the ministry guidelines, while assuring them of government’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for private schools to thrive.

By SaintAugustine Adula Odey

September 3, 2025.

C’River Education Commissioner, Convenes Management and Stakeholders’ Meeting Ahead of 2025/2026 Academic Session

Posted on by

0


The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, held a management and stakeholders’ meeting at the Ministry’s headquarters in Calabar earlier on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, to introduce a series of initiatives designed to reposition the education sector in preparation for the 2025/2026 academic session. During the meeting, Senator Odey highlighted the crucial role of commitment and innovation in driving a sustainable education sector, announcing that students’ certificates would be distributed free of charge once the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results are released. “Upon the release of the examination results, the corresponding performance records will be keyed in, ensuring that all eligible students receive their certificates without delay. This represents one of the new innovations we are introducing to reposition education in our state,” the Commissioner stated.

Professor Odey also emphasized the vital importance of reliable data for planning and attracting development support. He pointed out that inadequate and inconsistent data has been a recurring challenge and urged Directors, Zonal Coordinators, PRS officers, Executive Secretaries, and CR-SUBEB to focus on accurate and accessible data collection. To enhance transparency and accountability. The Commissioner further revealed that all unauthorized schools operating in the state would be shut down, as approved by the State Executive Council.

Senator Prof Odey, drew attention to the alarming rise in drug use among pupils and students, instructing school authorities to exercise vigilance and proactivity in tackling this issue. He stressed the importance of protecting the future of children, warning that close supervision is essential to prevent such behaviour from gaining traction among young learners. To combat drug use and bullying, he directed the creation of Anti-Drug and Anti-Bullying Clubs in all schools statewide and announced plans to meet with Principals and Head teachers across the educational zones.

The Commissioner and the Ministry’s Management has outlined  sweeping reforms and all the decisions arrived at the meeting by the Stakeholders will be ratified and approved by the Governor before making them  public. Professor Odey charged management members to foster a conducive working environment, avoid discrimination, and build a culture of inclusiveness. He commended His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu for setting a strong foundation for the education sector and pledged to consolidate on these achievements.

“The future of education in Cross River State depends on how diligently we embrace — accurate data management, innovative initiatives,, transparent certification, and strict regulatory compliance. Let us all rise and work together to strengthen our education system for the benefit of our children and generations to come,” the Commissioner remarked.

The meeting was attended by the Special Adviser on Education to the Governor, Dr Afiong Ugbaja; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Barr. Francis Adebe Oyije; Executive Chairman CR-SUBEB, Elder Dr Esu E. Esu; Technical Education Board Executive Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Achibong; Coordinating Supervisory Directors; all Executive Secretaries of the 18 LGAs; representatives of ANCOPPS, AOPSHON, SEB, and STEB; as well as all Directors of the Ministry.

By SaintAugustine Adula Odey.