Coneri Blog

CRIRS, Council Chairmen Sensitize Stakeholders on Nigeria’s New Tax Law

The Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS), in collaboration with Chairmen of the various Local Government Councils in the Northern and Central Senatorial Districts, on Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd January 2026, organized a sensitization programme on the New Nigeria Tax Acts for stakeholders across the two senatorial districts.

The two-day exercise held at the Ogoja Council Hall for the Northern Senatorial District and the Ikom Council Hall for the Central Senatorial District, respectively, attracted tax consultants, accountants, tax practitioners, business owners, market men and women, traditional rulers, and other critical stakeholders, with the objective of deepening public understanding of recent tax reforms and their implications for businesses and revenue generation.

Speaking at the programme, the Chairman of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service, Prince Edwin Okon, PhD, reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu to strengthening internally generated revenue through transparency, compliance, and sustained stakeholder engagement and noted that continuous enlightenment of taxpayers remains central to building trust and improving voluntary compliance across the state.

Earlier, the CRIRS Board Director for the Northern Senatorial District, Mr. Francis Peters, explained that the new tax laws are designed to simplify tax administration, broaden the tax base, reduce revenue leakages, and create a more business-friendly environment. He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the sensitization clinic to seek clarification and properly align their business operations with the provisions of the law.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Chris Agbe, expressed appreciation to Governor Otu and the management of CRIRS for bringing the sensitization to the grassroots, maintaining that such a move will go a long way in ensuring quick and desired result. He pledged the council’s support towards effective implementation of the new Tax Acts and improved collaboration with Revenue Authorities to enhance compliance within the Local Government Area.

Similarly, the Executive Chairman of Ikom Local Government Council, Pst. Hon. Mrs. Mercy Nsor, has described the sensitization as timely and strategic, noting that a clear understanding of tax laws is essential for voluntary compliance and sustainable development at both state and local government levels. Mrs Nsor, who was represented by one of her supersors urged stakeholders to embrace the reforms and partner government in driving economic growth.

On his part, Eld. Dr. Ndoma Odey, FCTI, CRIRS Board Director for the Central Senatorial District, emphasized the critical role of taxation in funding infrastructure and social services, stressing that effective collaboration between government and taxpayers remains key to economic growth and overall development. He promised continued partnership with both public and private individuals and organizations towards achieving the vision of the Board.

Reacting, Participants across both Senatorial Zones commended CRIRS and the Local Government Councils for the initiative, describing the sensitization as enlightening and impactful, with the potential to enhance voluntary compliance, reduce tax disputes, and improve revenue mobilization across Cross River State. The sensitization programme forms part of CRIRS’ broader strategy to strengthen

Outside the chairmen of Ogoja, Boki and Etung Local Government councils, other stakeholders present at both sessions included the Vice Chairmen of Bekwarra and Yala Local Government Councils, while Ikom and Obubra Local Government Councils were represented by the Supervisor for Finance and the Supervisor for Peace and Security, respectively. Also present were representatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Peace Corps, Ikom Chamber of Commerce, CRIRS Board Directors for the Central and Northern zones, senior government officials, traditional rulers, and representatives of professional bodies and relevant agencies.

Highlight of the events was the technical presentations of papers by Dr. Patience Vouda Egwu, Head of Revenue Assurance, CRIRS, and Mr. Victor Okpelewu, Director of the Property Tax Department, CRIRS. The two presenters covered critical areas of discourse, including Understanding Nigeria’s New Tax Laws, SME Clinic on Nigeria Tax Laws 2025, and The Implications of the New Tax Reforms on Businesses. And participants were taken through compliance requirements, property tax administration, and practical strategies for adapting to the new reforms.

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Okache Hails Governor Otu at Birthday, Describes Him as a Man of Vision and Service

The Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Chief Boniface Ogrinya Okache (the Oyame I of Utukpo-Okpame Kingdom), has joined family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating His Excellency, Senator (Apostle) Bassey Edet Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a heartfelt message titled “ A Man of Vision, Capacity, and Service,” Chief Okache described Governor Otu as a leader of uncommon grace, empathy, and conviction whose “People-First” philosophy continues to transform lives and restore hope across the state.

“Working closely with His Excellency has been both an honour and a masterclass in leadership, as I have witnessed firsthand his calm strength in moments of challenges, his belief in the potential of our people, and his tireless pursuit of a better Cross River" Okache stated.

He commended the Governor’s humility, unity of purpose, and ability to inspire collective progress, describing him as “a man who leads with grace, listens with empathy, and acts with conviction.”

Chief Okache prayed for God’s continued guidance, strength, and good health upon the Governor as he charts new paths of progress for the state.

“ May this new age bring Your Excellency peace, fulfilment, and even greater achievements,” he concluded.

Deputy Chief of Staff Media

Mrs F***y Odey Attends GEEP 3.0 Stakeholders Roundtable Event in Abuja

The Cross River State Programme Manager for the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), Mrs. F***y Odey, on Thursday, joined key policymakers and development partners at the GEEP 3.0 Stakeholders Roundtable held at the National Assembly Library, Abuja.

The event, themed “Building Trust, Strengthening Transparency and Scaling Impact through Financial Inclusion,” attracted stakeholders across board to review progress, strengthen accountability, and deepen collaboration in the implementation of GEEP under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Delivering keynote addresses, the National Coordinator of NSIP, Associate Prof. Lawal Badamasi, represented by Mr. Nsikan Okon, the National Programme Manager for N-Power, and the National Programme Manager of GEEP, Mr. Hamza Ibrahim Baba, highlighted the programme’s achievements and outlined its new direction towards deepening financial inclusion for the poor and vulnerable.

The roundtable also spotlighted ongoing institutional efforts on economic and financial inclusion (EFI), ranging from housing, broadband connectivity, and MSME financing, to social protection schemes such as conditional cash transfers, student loans, and farmer support programmes as well as the role of the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion (PreCEFI) in addressing Nigeria’s EFI challenges through innovation-driven, outcome-based strategies aligned with national goals.

According to Dr. Nurudeen Abubakar Zauro, Executive Secretary/CEO of PreCEFI and GEEP, the initiative seeks to “drop the high walls of isolation and let the benefits of democracy flow to the underserved.” He stressed the importance of collaboration across federal, state, and private sector actors in ensuring financial inclusion for all Nigerians.

In her remark, the Cross River GEEP program manager Ms. F***y Odey, emphasized the impact of GEEP interventions such as MarketMoni, TraderMoni, and FarmerMoni in supporting small traders, farmers, and households across the state and expressed appreciation to the Presidency for sustaining the programme under the Renewed Hope Initiatives. Mrs Odey conveyed Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration and its agenda for poverty reduction, inclusivity, and grassroots empowerment.

The event concluded with a call to action for stronger governance, political will, and investment in digital and financial infrastructure to unlock opportunities for the under-reached, particularly women, youth, and rural communities.

Eriacy Confidence Oba
Cross River GEEP Media

Cross River GEEP Program Manager Visits Calabar Markets, Reiterates Government's Commitment To Sustaining The Initiatives

The Program Manager for the Cross River State Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), Mrs. F***y Odey, on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, visited major markets in Calabar to engage traders and to reaffirm government’s commitment not only to the commencement of the third phase but also to the sustainability of the programme.

Markets visited during the exercise included Watt Market, Marian Market, and Ikot Ishie Market, where Mrs. Odey interacted with traders, addressed concerns, and highlighted the benefits of the schemes.

She explained that the visit was designed to strengthen the relationship between the GEEP team and beneficiaries of the previous phases of the TraderMonie and MarketMonie loans, while also assuring those yet to benefit of their inclusion in the forthcoming third phase. Mrs. Odey emphasized that the scheme, one of the Federal Government’s flagship social intervention programmes implemented across states, is aimed at providing interest-free loans and support to traders, artisans, and small business owners to boost their businesses and promote economic growth. She added that hundreds of traders in the state have already benefitted, with more set to benefit in the upcoming phase.

“The government remains committed to the economic empowerment of its people, especially our hardworking traders who drive commerce in our state. Those who are yet to benefit should be rest assured that they will be captured in the third phase,” Mrs. Odey stated.

Some beneficiaries of the previous phases, in their separate remarks, expressed gratitude to the Federal and State Governments for sustaining the programme. They pledged their continued support and prayers for the success of the present administration, noting that the loans and other supports had positively impacted their businesses. They further urged government not to relent in its efforts to provide sustainable livelihoods for the people, particularly those at the grassroots.

By Eriacy Confidence Oba,
GEEP Cross River Media Team

World Humanitarian Day 2025: C'River State Govt Joins Celebration As Commissioner Egodo Advocates Fair Treatment Of The Destitute and Needy

The Cross River State Government, through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MHAPA-CRS), on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, joined the global community to commemorate the 2025 World Humanitarian Day, themed “Strengthening Global Solidarity and Empowering Local Communities.”

Speaking during the event, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Dr. Mrs. Helen Egodo, emphasized the need for society to accord equal dignity, respect, and kindness to the destitute, the needy, and vulnerable groups, maintaining that they deserve fair treatment.

“The destitute and the needy are human beings just like us. They deserve fair treatment, compassion, and opportunities for dignity. Humanity has no borders—let kindness lead the way,” she stated.

Hon. Egodo further called on citizens to embrace acts of compassion in their daily lives, stressing that while disasters and crises do not discriminate, neither should human compassion. She noted that small acts of kindness can create life-changing impacts and urged communities to “rise by lifting others.”

The event featured other key humanitarian messages such as: “Helping one person may not change the world, but it can change their world,”“Be the light in someone’s darkest moment" and “Together for humanity, together for hope.”

Other agencies and partners present expressed gratitude to Governor Otu and his amiable wife, Bishop Mrs Eyoanwan Otu for their continued support for sector and pledged their unalloyed cooperation for the success of the People First administration.

World Humanitarian Day is observed globally every August 19 to honor aid workers and promote collective action in alleviating human suffering and protecting vulnerable populations. This year's edition began with A Humanitarian Day Walk spanning several kilometers and

Eriacy Confidence

PRESS RELEASE

State Government Issues Directives to Address Inter-Communal Crisis in Ikom and Obubra LGAs

As Cross River State Government intensifies efforts to address the protracted inter-communal crisis between the Ekukunela/Alesi communities in Ikom Local Government Area and the Odonget/Ochon/Isabang communities in Obubra Local Government Area, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, (PhD) convened a peace and security meeting with leaders and critical stakeholders from the affected areas on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, resolved as follows:

1. Immediate Suspension of Activities on Disputed Land: All residents of the affected communities are hereby directed to cease every form of activity on the disputed land until a proper boundary demarcation is carried out.

2. Submission of Relevant Documents: Community leaders and representatives from both Ikom and Obubra LGAs are to submit all relevant documents pertaining to the crisis to the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, who also chairs the Peace Committee on or before 12 noon, Monday, August 4, 2025.

3. Constitution and Inauguration of an 8-Man Peace Committee: The State Government has set up an 8-man committee tasked with identifying the root causes of the conflict and recommending sustainable solution to government.

4. Palliative Measures for Displaced Persons: The committee is mandated to urgently brief the Deputy Governor on interim palliative measures for displaced persons affected by the crisis and is expected to submit its comprehensive report within two weeks.

5. Follow-Up Meeting Scheduled: A follow-up review meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2025, to assess the level of compliance with the above resolutions, monitor the committee’s progress, and address any emerging issues.

In conclusion, the Deputy Governor has called on all parties to embrace peace and remain law-abiding, stressing that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu will not condone any further acts of violence or defiance of government directives. He has further directed the Chairmen of the affected Local Government Areas, as Chief Security Officers of their jurisdictions, to ensure full compliance with the resolutions. He has warned that any failure to enforce these directives will attract immediate suspension from office.

Fred Abua, Esq.,
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor.
July 30, 2025.

CRSG Hails NDDC at 25, Reaffirms Commitment to Partnership

The Cross River State Government has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its 25 years of service, applauding the Commission’s role in transforming lives across the region through key infrastructure and social development projects.

Speaking at the NDDC 25th Anniversary Plenary in Port Harcourt, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who represented Governor Bassey Edet Otu, said Cross River remains proud of the Commission’s interventions, especially in roads, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment.

He noted that the NDDC has executed 227 completed and ongoing road projects across the state, greatly improving access to markets, schools, healthcare, and farmlands, while also creating jobs and boosting local economies.

Odey also acknowledged the Commission’s continued support despite Cross River’s exclusion from direct oil revenue since 2013, describing NDDC’s efforts as lifelines for many underserved communities.

He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the NDDC to drive inclusive growth and bridge development gaps across the region.

The Cross River delegation included lawmakers, cabinet members, and other top officials. Dignitaries at the event included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Niger Delta governors, ministers, and traditional rulers.

Hon. Raymond Akori Inaku Emerges Coneri Personality Of The Week

Hon. Raymond Akori Inaku, has proven himself as an inspiring force and leader driven by service, defined by action, and committed to the collective good of his people. As the Councillor representing Ofumbongha/Yala Ward, the Leader of the 8th Obubra Legislative Council, and the Secretary-General of the Legislative Leaders Forum in Cross River State, Raymond has proven time and again that leadership is not just about holding positions but about making a difference.

It is for these very reasons that he has been named the Coneri Personality of the Week by the Management of Coneri Nigeria, publishers of Coneri Blog, a recognition well deserved for his sterling leadership acumen, unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people, and the harmonious relationship he has fostered with the executive arm of government. Among the many capable leaders in Cross River State, Raymond Inaku stands out as a beacon of hope, unity, and progress, particularly as the first person from Yala-Obubra to elected Councilor of Ofumbongha/Yala as well as leader of Obubra Legislative.

A Life of Service and Dedication

Born in Yala-Obubra in Obubra Local Government Area, Raymond’s journey into leadership was not accidental. From an early age, he exhibited a rare blend of vision and responsibility. Between 1988 and 2010, he led the Young Planner Age Grade, a role that shaped his ability to inspire and mobilize people toward common goals. His influence in the Yala Youth Forum, where he played pivotal roles as Secretary and later Chairman, solidified his reputation as a unifier—a leader who builds bridges rather than walls.

But Raymond’s impact is not limited to community mobilization alone. His academic journey speaks of a man deeply rooted in knowledge and strategic thinking. Holding a degree in Oceanography, a Postgraduate Diploma in Marine Toxicology, and currently pursuing an MSc in Zoology and Environmental Biology at the University of Calabar, he brings a scientific, solution-oriented mindset to governance. In an era where informed decision-making is crucial, Raymond’s educational background equips him to tackle the complexities of leadership with precision and foresight.

A Political Trailblazer and Party Loyalist

Politics is often a game of shifting loyalties, but Raymond has remained steadfast in his principles. As a student leader, he represented the Marine Science students in the University of Calabar’s Student Union Government, honing his advocacy and negotiation skills. His political instincts were further sharpened when he played a critical role in mobilizing voter registration and championing the Sai Baba campaign for President Buhari in 2014.

His unwavering loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been instrumental in strengthening the party’s presence in Ofumbongha/Yala Ward. As the former Assistant Financial Secretary of the APC Obubra Chapter, Raymond not only ensured financial transparency but also helped solidify the party’s grassroots structure. His ability to rally people around shared ideals has made him an indispensable asset to the party and his constituents.

Transformational Leadership and Impact

Leadership is ultimately measured by impact, and Raymond Akori Inaku has left an indelible mark on his ward. By Coneri rating, Raymond is a visionary leader Steering Ofumbongha/Yala ward toward progress Through his strategic vision, he has championed major infrastructure projects, including the Yala-Obubra road construction, as development blueprint.This project is not just about roads. it is about connectivity, accessibility, and economic empowerment for the people. Also, as chairman of the Yala-Obubra Community Development Association, YOBUCA, Raymond and Eriacy Confidence Oba, Media Aide to Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, Member Representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency, run a two-man executive committee that heralded the era of development in the community.

Beyond infrastructure, Raymond has played a crucial role in conflict resolution. In a region where communal clashes have often hindered progress, his timely interventions helped restore peace between the Yala-Obubra, Akam, and Onyen Orangha communities. His leadership is not just about politics; it is about fostering harmony and ensuring that his people can thrive in a peaceful environment.

A Vision for the Future:

Raymond’s leadership is anchored in the philosophy that governance should bridge gaps—between generations, between promises and fulfillment, and between the present and a brighter future. His vision for Ofumbongha/Yala Ward extends beyond physical projects to include mentorship, youth empowerment, and policy reforms that will secure long-term prosperity for his people.

As Leader of the Obubra Legislative Council, he has maintained a cordial relationship with the executive, ensuring that policies are implemented efficiently and that legislative decisions translate into tangible benefits for the people. His ability to balance diplomacy with firm leadership has been a defining trait of his tenure.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

Coneri Personality of the Week is not just an award; it is a testament to Raymond Akori Inaku’s relentless dedication to service. Among many other leaders, he stands out because he embodies what true leadership should be—service-driven, people-oriented, and visionary. His legacy is already taking shape, and the people of Ofumbongha/Yala Ward can look to the future with confidence, knowing that they are in capable hands.

Hon. Raymond Akori Inaku is not just a political figure; he is a movement, a force for good, and a leader who continues to inspire hope, unity, and progress.

Coneri Blog

School feeding programs vendors disengaged

C'River ready to meet REA'S counterpart funding requirements to improve rural economies

Governor Bassey Otu has announced that his administration is ready to meet the counterpart funding requirements of the Federal Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to provide mini-grid power supply to rural communities.

This move is aimed at boosting the micro-economies of the state and improving productivity levels, especially in the agricultural and rural communities.

Speaking during a courtesy call to him in Calabar, by the REA management team, Governor Otu expressed his administration's willingness to meet the 30 percent counterpart funding, which is necessary for attracting REA's interventions.

He emphasized the importance of power supply in powering the rural economies to achieve energy and food security for the people of Cross River.

Governor Otu commended the REA for the 7-megawatt power project that will provide steady power supply for the University of Calabar and the University Teaching Hospital, UCTH.

He also praised the REA team's technical capacity and President Bola Tinubu's administration for putting round pegs in round holes.

He disclosed that Cross River energy law would soon be in place, and the state with an energy capacity of nearly 600 megawatts would be an exporter of energy to other states.

The MD of the REA, Mallam Abba Aliu, explained that the agency promotes and coordinates electrification programmes and administers the Rural Electrification Fund to provide rural electrification through public and private sector participation in the country.

He revealed that REA has secured $750 million in funding, making it the world's largest public sector off-grid funded project.

Aliu added that the state must provide 30% counterpart funding for the agency to provide 70% for projects located in a partner state. The state will also provide land, which is a crucial requirement for citing any project in any state.

He also revealed REA's 'Energy Agriculture Initiative,' where solar mini-grids are provided to enhance agriculture.

The MD assured the governor that REA has marked Cross River as a flashpoint for various interventions.

Nsa Gill
Chief Press Secretary
May 6, 2024.