Cross River State Newmap EIB

*Cross River State SPIU Holds a Two-Day Back-to-Office Knowledge Sharing Session*

The Cross River State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) of NEWMAP-EIB successfully concluded a two-day Back-to-Office Knowledge Sharing Session aimed at strengthening institutional learning, enhancing staff capacity, and improving project implementation.
The exercise was organized to provide staff who participated in the recent mission to Asaba an opportunity to share key lessons, experiences, and best practices acquired during the engagement with other members of staff. The initiative forms part of the Project’s commitment to promoting continuous learning, knowledge transfer, and improved operational efficiency.

Speaking at the opening of the session, the Acting Project Coordinator, Engr. Obeten Otu, welcomed staff and emphasized the importance of institutional learning and collaboration in enhancing project delivery. He noted that knowledge sharing remains a vital tool for building staff capacity, improving performance, and ensuring that valuable experiences gained during official engagements are effectively disseminated across the session. Over the course of the two-day session, presentations were delivered by representatives from the Environmental Safeguards, Procurement, Engineering, Finance, Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), and Social and Livelihood Units.

The presentations covered a wide range of thematic areas, including environmental and social safeguards, procurement compliance and best practices, engineering, project management, financial management procedures, PAYE tax regulations, Value Added Tax (VAT), monitoring and evaluation systems, digital data management, livelihood restoration, Resettlement Action Plans (RAP), gender inclusion, grievance redress mechanisms, and stakeholder engagement.
Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of quality data generation and collaboration among Heads of Units to strengthen project monitoring, reporting, and evidence-based decision-making.

The interactive sessions provided participants with the opportunity to ask questions, exchange ideas, and explore practical ways of applying the lessons learned to ongoing and future project activities. Staff reaffirmed their commitment to adopting best practices and strengthening inter-unit collaboration to enhance project outcomes.
The two-day knowledge-sharing exercise concluded with an insightful take-home message delivered by the Environmental and Social Officer, Sir Dr. Don Etta, who encouraged staff to remain committed to professionalism, teamwork, and continuous learning. The Project Accountant, Dr. Edem Ita delivered the vote of thanks.

The session reaffirmed the commitment of Cross River State NEWMAP-EIB to staff development, institutional learning, and the efficient implementation of project objectives. Staff agreed on the need to translate the knowledge acquired into practical actions that will strengthen project delivery and improve service outcomes.

*Ukeh Omang*
Assistant Communications Officer
CRS NEWMAP-EIB

Asaba Hosts 23 States, FCT as NEWMAP-EIB Begins Nationwide Climate Project Readiness Workshop

The European Investment Bank-assisted Nigeria Climate Adaptation–Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB) on Monday commenced a five-day Capacity Building and Project Implementation Readiness Workshop in Asaba, Delta State, bringing together participants from the 23 project participating states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

The high-level workshop, which runs from Monday, May 18 to Thursday, May 21 2026, is being held under the Joint Mission of the Government of Nigeria (GoN), the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU), and State Project Implementation Units (SPIUs).

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the National Project Coordinator of NEWMAP-EIB, Engr. Anda Ayuba Yalaks, charged participants to fully embrace the technical and operational requirements of the European Investment Bank project framework in order to ensure effective project delivery, sustainability, and global best practices.

Yalaks stressed the need for participants to deploy their technical expertise and institutional knowledge in driving the project implementation process in line with international standards and the expectations of the European Union.

According to him, the workshop provides a rare opportunity for state actors and implementing agencies to interact closely with international partners, deepen their understanding of project procedures, and strengthen collaboration for the success of the intervention programme.

He noted that the project represents a major opportunity for Nigeria to tackle erosion, watershed degradation, and climate adaptation challenges through sustainable and professionally managed interventions.

The National Project Coordinator further urged participants to take the workshop seriously, particularly in the areas of procurement planning, compliance with project rules, and implementation procedures, stressing that accountability and professionalism remain critical to the success of the programme.

Also speaking, Senior Project Manager of UNOPS, Mr. Donato Serena, said the project was gradually transitioning from the preparation stage to full implementation, adding that UNOPS had been fully mobilized to support the Federal Government of Nigeria in achieving the project’s objectives.

Serena explained that the training was designed to reinforce collaboration and alignment among the FPMU, SPIUs, and UNOPS, while also building practical capacity in procurement, engineering, environmental and social safeguards, finance, monitoring and evaluation, and project management.

He emphasized the importance of effective communication among all stakeholders, describing the workshop as a crucial platform for knowledge sharing, problem-solving, and practical application of project management principles.

According to him, the workshop will also expose participants to field realities through scheduled site visits across Delta State, while strengthening engagement with state authorities and critical stakeholders.

He disclosed that the workshop agenda includes intensive sessions on project management, procurement planning, donor compliance procedures, and technical discussions aimed at preparing participating states for seamless project ex*****on.

In his goodwill message, the Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ejiro Tommy Jamani, welcomed participants to the state and expressed appreciation to the organizers for choosing Delta as host for the strategic mission.

Represented by the Delta State Project Coordinator of NEWMAP-EIB, Mr. Benedict Nwaokocha, the commissioner assured participants that Delta State remains peaceful, secure, and conducive for engagements of such international magnitude.

He noted that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration has continued to provide the enabling and secure environment for developmental programmes and international partnerships to thrive in the state.

Jamani further encouraged participants to take advantage of the workshop to exchange ideas, strengthen institutional relationships, and contribute meaningfully toward addressing environmental and climate-related challenges across Nigeria.

The workshop is expected to equip participating states with the technical readiness and implementation capacity required for the successful rollout of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention projects nationwide.

*EXIT OF AN ICON*

Prof. Emmanuel Eyo Laid to Rest Amid Tears, Tributes in Calabar

There was an outpouring of grief and solemn reflection in Calabar, Cross River State, as the remains of the former CRS NEWMAP-EIB Project Coordinator, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, were laid to rest at his residence in Calabar South following a funeral service attended by dignitaries from across the country.

The funeral service, held at the University of Calabar Auditorium, drew government officials, academics, project coordinators, political associates, family members, friends, and admirers who gathered to pay their last respects to the late professor, described by many as a humble leader, mentor, and philanthropist.

As the body of the deceased arrived at his residence for interment, emotional scenes unfolded as scores of indigent persons believed to have benefited from his generosity broke into tears at the entrance of his compound, mourning the loss of a man widely regarded as compassionate and selfless.

Prof. Eyo, who died in January after a brief illness, was remembered for his outstanding contributions to the CRS NEWMAP-EIB project and his commitment to humanity.

Among dignitaries present at the funeral were the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey; the NEWMAP-EIB National Coordinator, Engr. Anda Yalaks; the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Offiong; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, represented by his wife, Assoc. Prof. Virginia Ironbar; National Environmental Safeguards & Risk Management Specialist - Mrs. Zenum Kifasi,the Chairman of all Project Coordinators, Engr. Echiegu Philip; alongside other project coordinators from Akwaibom ,Imo, Edo state, government officials , Senior Lecturers from the University of Calabar ,stakeholders and Staff of the SPMU.

Delivering the homily during the funeral mass, the officiating Priest Rev. Fr Ojong, described the late Prof. Eyo as a man whose life exemplified humility, service, and compassion.

He urged those present to live impactful lives worthy of remembrance, noting that the deceased consistently touched lives through his philanthropic gestures and unwavering commitment to humanity.

Several dignitaries who spoke during the ceremony paid glowing tributes to the late professor, highlighting his leadership qualities, vision, and dedication to duty.

Speaking on behalf of the CRS NEWMAP-EIB team, the Acting Project Coordinator, Engr. Obeten Otu, described Prof. Eyo as a rare leader whose passion and vision greatly advanced the project.

“Prof. Eyo was a great asset to the project and a visionary leader who demonstrated an exceptional sense of purpose and commitment towards the successful implementation of the programme. His leadership style reflected dedication, humility, discipline, and compassion, qualities that inspired both staff and stakeholders alike. In him, we saw the true essence of leadership and kindness, not merely in titles and positions, but in his daily words, decisions, and actions toward others.
He further described the late Project Coordinator as a principled disciplinarian who carried out his responsibilities with remarkable diligence, professionalism, and integrity. According to him, Prof. Eyo remained steadfast in ensuring transparency, accountability, and excellence in the ex*****on of project activities, leaving behind a legacy worthy of emulation.
He added that, as the Acting Project Coordinator, he would continue to uphold the noble principles, vision, and standards established by his late boss. He assured stakeholders and members of the project team that every effort would be made to sustain the progress already achieved and ensure the successful completion of all projects and initiatives initiated under the leadership of the late Prof. Emmanuel Eyo,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on NEWMAP-EIB, Mrs. Affiong Ani Ita, described the deceased as a disciplined yet jovial administrator who was always committed to excellence.

“He was a boss who was there for everyone. He always wanted things done the right way and was deeply committed to the success of others. We will greatly miss him,” she said.

The late Prof. Emmanuel Eyo was finally laid to rest amid prayers, tears, and tributes celebrating a life dedicated to service, leadership, and humanity.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.