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Tag: Orok Duke News

  • IWD: NDDC harps for priority for women’s health in Cross River

    IWD: NDDC harps for priority for women’s health in Cross River

    By Deborah Ekpo

    The Nigeria Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under the representation of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has called for a premium to be placed on women’s health in Cross River State.

    The call was made at the 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration organised by the Adanne Eneka Empowerment Initiative and supported by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    The event, which took place in Calabar, the state capital, focused on women’s health, empowerment, and the significance of International Women’s Day in society.

    The representative of the NDGO noted that the programme was being conducted across all nine states of the Niger Delta, underscoring the regional commitment to improving the lives of women throughout the area.

    In his presentation, speaking on behalf of Dr Patricia Ojekwe, he highlighted the essence of the International Women’s Day celebration; he spoke passionately about the progress made towards gender equality and the work still required to achieve true parity. He urged the women to continue advocating for women’s rights and to take active roles in their communities to ensure these rights are respected and upheld.

    One of the event’s key segments was a presentation on women’s health by Dr Effioanwan Archibong, a physician in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). She provided an in-depth look at the many health challenges faced by women, particularly in the Niger Delta region.

    Dr Archibong’s presentation addressed several critical issues, including the life expectancy of women in West Africa, the prevalence of heart conditions, and the importance of early detection and treatment of cancers, such as cervical and breast cancer. She stressed that many health conditions remain undiagnosed in women, leading to preventable complications and even death.

    READ ALSO: Gov Otu commends Orok Duke for providing more waste bins for Cross River

    Dr Archibong also emphasised the need to prioritise women’s health, particularly focusing on non-communicable diseases like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. She discussed reproductive health issues, including contraception, abortion, mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, and other critical issues like menopause, violence against women, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), pregnancy-related disorders, and arthritis. Additionally, Dr Archibong highlighted the importance of regular medical checks, such as pap smears for cervical cancer, monitoring sugar and cholesterol levels, testing for STDs like HIV/AIDS, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea, and eye exams for conditions like glaucoma.

    She further stressed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, not only for its benefits to infants but also for reducing the risk of breast cancer in women. Maintaining a healthy weight to prevent obesity, which is linked to numerous health issues, was another key point of her presentation. Dr Archibong encouraged the women to adopt a lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and avoiding harmful habits such as alcohol and tobacco consumption.

    The event also included a session of entertainment, which provided a lighter note to the day’s serious discussions. Attendees participated in health checks conducted by medical personnel, who measured blood pressure, glucose levels, pulse, heart rate, and oxygen levels. This service was a vital addition, offering immediate health insights to the women present.

    In his closing remarks, Chief Dr Daniel Ajunwa, the Cross River State NDDC Director, applauded the efforts of the organisers and the participating women. He urged women to utilise the information gathered from the health presentations and apply it to their daily lives to improve their health outcomes.

    Chief Dr Ajunwa also thanked the speakers for their informative sessions and acknowledged the significance of the lecture series in this year’s celebration.

    Hon. Orok Duke, the CRS NDDC Representative, was actively involved in mobilising women across the state to participate in the event.

    He stressed the importance of taking advantage of such opportunities to learn about maintaining women’s health and ensuring that this knowledge is passed on to others in their communities. His efforts played a crucial role in ensuring a large turnout and engagement from women across the state.

    The day concluded on a high note, filled with education, empowerment, and community support, all aimed at enhancing the lives of women in Cross River State and beyond.

  • Gov Otu commends Orok Duke for providing more waste bins for Cross River

    Gov Otu commends Orok Duke for providing more waste bins for Cross River

    By Deborah Ekpo

    Governor Bassey Otu has lauded Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, Cross River State representative at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, for his proactive measures in improving waste management across the state.

    Duke’s recent efforts have resulted in the provision of additional refuse bins, a move that has been met with widespread approval. These new bins mark a notable step in the state’s waste disposal capabilities.

    Governor Otu emphasised the importance of this initiative in tackling the growing waste management challenges in Cross River State.

    He pointed out that proper waste disposal is crucial not only for maintaining cleanliness but also for safeguarding public health and the environment.

    The governor stressed that Duke’s efforts reflect a deep understanding of the state’s needs and a commitment to addressing them effectively.

    READ ALSO: Ex-CRSHA member Elucate Ekom describes Gov Otu’s leadership award as testament to good leadership

    The governor also highlighted the broader impact of Duke’s contributions on the state’s development goals. By enhancing waste management infrastructure, the state is better positioned to attract investments and promote tourism, which are key to its economic growth.

    Governor Otu noted that such initiatives are essential for creating a sustainable and livable environment for all residents of Cross River State.

    In his commendation, Governor Otu called on other stakeholders, both within and outside the government, to take inspiration from Duke’s actions.

    He urged them to actively participate in initiatives that contribute to the state’s development and the well-being of its citizens.

    The governor reiterated that collective efforts are necessary to achieve the state’s vision of a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Cross River.

    Recall that Duke, during his resumption speech, pledged to contribute to the development of the state.

  • NDDC lights up communities in Akamkpa

    NDDC lights up communities in Akamkpa

    In a commendable effort to enhance security and improve the quality of life for residents, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has installed emergency solar-powered street lights in the Uyanga and Iko communities of Akamkpa Local Government Area. This initiative, spearheaded by the NDDC under the leadership of Cross River State Representative Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, aims to address critical infrastructure needs in these areas.

    Street lighting plays a pivotal role in community safety and well-being. Properly lit streets are essential in deterring criminal activities, thereby creating a safer environment for residents. The installation of these solar-powered streetlights is particularly significant in regions where electricity supply is erratic, offering a reliable alternative source of illumination.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke highlighted the broader vision of the NDDC in his reaction to our reporter. “The NDDC will continue to assist the state to bring relief to the state. As an interventionist agency, we are not limiting our scope. Street lights are a security measure to curb crime. We are looking forward to providing these lights to the hinterlands to serve as an alternative source of electricity to our people and this is one of the thematic areas of the Commission.”

    Beyond enhancing security, the provision of solar-powered street lights brings numerous other benefits. It extends the hours of economic activities, allowing local businesses to operate longer into the evening. Additionally, it promotes social cohesion by enabling residents to safely participate in communal activities after dark.

    READ ALSO: Governor Otu’s aide accused of stealing palliatives

    The initiative reflects the NDDC’s commitment to sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. By utilising solar energy, the Commission not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes environmental sustainability. Solar-powered solutions reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources, thereby contributing to the fight against climate change.

    Community leaders and residents of Uyanga and Iko have expressed their gratitude for the NDDC’s intervention. They noted that the new street lights have already begun to make a noticeable difference in their daily lives, providing a sense of security and improving the overall ambience of their communities.

    The successful implementation of this project underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities. It sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life in rural areas.

    As the NDDC continues to roll out similar projects across the Niger Delta, it remains committed to addressing the diverse needs of the region. The provision of solar-powered street lights in Uyanga and Iko is a testament to the Commission’s dedication to fostering development and ensuring the well-being of all residents.

  • Senate President Akpabio commends NDDC as Cross River Rep stands out

    Senate President Akpabio commends NDDC as Cross River Rep stands out

    The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for the infrastructural development in the region.

    Akpabio stated this on Sunday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) South South Zonal Executive Meeting in Calabar, Cross River State.

    The meeting was attended by the bigwigs of the party across the nine NDDC states, including the Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu, and Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, NDDC Representative in Cross River, who is ensuring the state gets the Midas touch.

    Sen. Godswill Akpabio, Senate President of Nigeria

    Speaking, Akpabio said he is happy that after leaving the Commission as a Representative and the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs as Minister, the legacy of positioning the Commission for the benefit of the masses still lives on.

    He was grateful for the commissioning of power projects in Delta, roads and bridges in Akwa Ibom, Cross River and other states.

    “I am going to thank the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, who is ably represented by his Executive Director, Victor Antai. Your job is to work and turn around the region with infrastructure to enable us to have access to areas we never had. And so far you are doing a great job. NDDC is now commissioning projects everywhere,” Akpabio said.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, Commissioner Representing Cross River State at the NDDC Board

    It is worthy to note that the NDDC Commissioner in Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, is doing the Commission’s bidding as he’s seen to the construction of roads at Ndidem Usang Iso Lane, Etta-Agbor Layout in Calabar Municipality, K. Duke Street off Chamley in Calabar South, installation of solar-powered street lights to Nigeria Immigration Service in Calabar, communities in Akamkpa, to mention but a few.

    Duke has also distributed relief materials from the NDDC to areas affected by flood, including Ikot Offiong in Odukpani, Bayside and Esierebom in Calabar South, Bakassi returnees camp at Ikang, Akpabuyo, with Ogoja, Obanliku and others in view.

    READ ALSO:
  • NDDC donates another set of waste bins to Cross River amidst cholera outbreak

    NDDC donates another set of waste bins to Cross River amidst cholera outbreak

    The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has donated another set of waste bins to the Government of Cross River State to help keep the state clean, especially during this period when the nation is battling the outbreak of cholera disease.

    This is coming four months after the Commission through its Cross River Representative, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, donated 300 waste bins to the Government.

    CONVERSEER gathered that the dumpsters were delivered by Duke to the Government House on 10th June as a notable contribution to aid in waste management within the state.

    The dumpsters, prominently painted in blue and labelled “Donated by NDDC,” were delivered on a large flatbed truck. The donation is part of NDDC’s ongoing efforts to support environmental sustainability and public health initiatives in the Niger Delta region.

    Commenting on the development, the State NDDC Commissioner, Duke, observed that the initiative underscores the Commission’s dedication to addressing the environmental challenges faced by the region, particularly in urban centres like Calabar.

    Rt. Hon. Duke added, “The provision of these dumpsters is anticipated to streamline waste collection processes and reduce the incidence of indiscriminate dumping, thereby fostering a cleaner and more sustainable urban landscape.”

    READ ALSO:

    State officials have expressed their gratitude for the donation, acknowledging its potential impact on maintaining cleanliness and promoting a healthier environment for residents. This contribution aligns with broader efforts to modernise waste management systems and tackle the growing concerns of urban waste.

    See the photos below…

  • NDDC distributes palliatives to Bayside in Calabar

    NDDC distributes palliatives to Bayside in Calabar

    In a continued effort to support the communities of the Niger Delta, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), through its Cross River State Representative, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, distributed flood palliatives to the riverine axis of Bayside in Calabar. The event, held at the playground of the Efe Ekpe Efik Iboku in Duke Town, was met with celebration and gratitude from the local community.

    In his address, Duke highlighted the recent challenges faced by the state and the country, particularly in terms of food security and sustainability. These challenges have been exacerbated by environmental factors such as flooding, making the palliatives essential to alleviating the impact on the riverine areas.

    “We know that this isn’t enough, but as a responsive and interventionist agency, we try to bring succour to our people by supporting the government,” Duke stated. He reminisced about the times when fresh vegetables and other farm produce were abundant in the markets, brought in from the riverine areas. However, he noted that current environmental issues have made farming nearly impossible in these regions.

    While acknowledging the difficulties, Duke promised that Cross River State would receive its fair share of support from the commission. He assured the people that despite past neglect, efforts would be made to ensure they were not left behind.

    The community members, including Madam Nkese, Anthony Effanga, and Asuquo Asibong, expressed their appreciation for the NDDC’s efforts. They applauded the commission’s goodwill and recognised the importance of the aid provided. Despite the economic challenges, they emphasised that providing food in these times is a significant and appreciated gesture.

    READ ALSO:

    The event underscored the NDDC’s commitment to supporting the Niger Delta communities, particularly in times of environmental and economic hardships.

    See the pictures below…

  • NDDC Boss vows to revisit all abandoned projects in Cross River

    NDDC Boss vows to revisit all abandoned projects in Cross River

    By Our Reporter

    Representative of Cross River State at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, Rt. Hon. (Chief) Orok Duke, has vowed to revisit all the Commission’s projects that have been abandoned across the state.

    Duke stated this on Friday during an inspection visit to the Skill Acquisition Centre located in Akpabuyo local government area that has been abandoned.

    Describing the project as massive, the NDDC Commissioner underscored its significance to Akpabuyo and Cross River as a whole. He declared that a project of such magnitude if completed would have had a great economic impact on the people of the area, which in the long run could address youth unemployment and its attendant restiveness.

    READ ALSO: Cross River community decries abandonment of ₦297.7m NDDC road project

    Duke assured that he would make case for all the abandoned projects in Cross River before the interventionist agency, expressing optimism that they would be looked into with a view to completing them.

    Since assumption of office as the Commissioner representing Cross River, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke has demonstrated unwavering determination to tackle issues affecting communities in the state in line with the Commission’s statutory mandate as an intervention agency.

    He has consistently affirmed that his work at NDDC is to complement the effort of Cross River State Government in all aspects of development.

    READ ALSO:
  • Bakassi Returnees receive relief materials from NDDC

    Bakassi Returnees receive relief materials from NDDC

    …as Duke promised to take their plea to the Commission

    The Commissioner representing Cross River State in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has presented a truckload of relief materials to Bakassi returnees to ameliorate the sufferings of the people.

    Presenting the items to the coordinator of the Bakassi returnees camp at Ikang on Friday, Duke stated that the intervention was to complement what the Cross River state government is already doing to address problems faced by the people.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, Cross River State NDDC Commissioner, distributing NDDC relief materials to Bakassi Returnees on 31st June 2024.

    He charged the camp coordinator to ensure that the relief materials get to the people who needed them most, stating that this would spur up the NDDC to do even more for the Bakassi people.

    After receiving complaints from the people regarding their immediate needs such as roads, electricity, jetty and boats for security agencies in the area, the NDDC Commissioner assured them that their complaints would be presented to the Commission for urgent intervention. He also told them that aside from the needs articulated, he would draw the attention of the interventionist agency to other critical areas of development such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, among others.

    Additionally, Duke stated that in subsequent exercises other parts of the state would be duly captured, noting that “We have invasion and refugee camps in Obanliku, Ogoja and Boki which we are working towards. Ours is to ameliorate whatever situation we find ourselves in.”

    READ ALSO:

    In their separate remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Niger Delta, Hon. Ani Esin and the former member representing Bakassi State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Dr Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, thanked the NDDC Commissioner for reaching out to the Bakassi returnees.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke (Left); Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey (2nd Left); Hon. Ani Esin (Middle); and Prince Aston Joseph Inyang (Right) during the distribution of NDDC relief materials to Bakassi Returnees on 31st June 2024.

    Receiving the relief materials on behalf of the Bakassi returnees, the camp coordinator, Prince Aston Joseph Inyang, who was in the company of members of the camp management committee, expressed gratitude to Rt. Hon. Duke and the NDDC for the donation. He assured the Commissioner that the items would be distributed in a manner that would reflect fairness.

    The relief materials comprise bags of rice, bags of beans, beds, cartons of noodles, tin tomatoes, toiletries, footwear, mosquito nets, seasoning cubes etc.

    See more photos of the distribution below…

  • 24 years after, Cross River Community feel Govt impact, courtesy of NDDC

    24 years after, Cross River Community feel Govt impact, courtesy of NDDC

    …as Commissioner distributes relief materials, cash to people of Ikot Offiong

    Twenty-four (24) years after being left in the shadows, the people of Ikot Offiong in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State have felt a hand of relief from the government for the first time as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) distributed relief materials to the community.

    CONVERSEER reports that in the last 24 years, the community has been ravaged by crises, ranging from war, flooding and other disasters, yet, no hope from anywhere.

    But, that hope came on Wednesday, 29th May 2024, courtesy of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, NDDC Commissioner in Cross River State, who distributed relief items and cash to the people.

    L-R: Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, NDDC Commissioner in Cross River State; and His Excellency Etubom (Dr) Nya Eyoma Asuquo, Clan Head of Mbiabo Ikot Offiong Clan, during the distribution of NDDC relief materials to the people of Ikot Offiong in the state. 29th May 2024.

    Distributing the relief materials to the people at the Palace of His Excellency Etubom (Dr) Nya Eyoma Asuquo, Clan Head of Mbiabo Ikot Offiong Clan, on Wednesday, Duke said it was necessary that the community feel the impact of government, adding that the exercise was an interim intervention to ease the stress of the people.

    According to him, “We want to establish certain areas that we cannot overlook again, and Ikot Offiong community is going to be one of them.

    “This is 24 years without the Ikot Offiong people being settled. We intend to add value to what this present government is doing, and I can reveal here that Ikot Offiong issue is one of those pressing issues.

    “On our own part at NDDC, we are going to insist that all those parts that have been neglected and are still suffering, including the people of Ikot Offiong, will be taken care of. To a large extent, this problem will be taken care of by this government and also with us being supportive.”

    Moved by the plight of the people of Ikot Offiong, Duke personally donated the sum of N500,000, promising to do more for them.

    READ ALSO:

    The Cross River State NDDC Representatives said they are targeting communities that are really stressed across the three Senatorial Districts of the State.

    “We are targeting a few communities that are really stressed. It is the beginning of more things to come. I am saying this strictly because at NDDC now, we are more open. We are going to move to Obanliku and Ogoja where we heard there’s an invasion by the Ambazonians from Cameroon. We have refugees there,” Duke maintained.

    His Excellency Etubom (Dr) Nya Eyoma Asuquo, Clan Head of Mbiabo Ikot Offiong Clan, receiving relief materials from NDDC. 29th May 2024.

    Receiving the relief items on behalf of the Ikot Offiong community, HE Etubom Asuquo, former Member Representing Odukpani/Calabar Municipality at the National Assembly and Ambassador of Nigeria to Uganda, thanked the NDDC and the Commissioner for the gesture.

    He revealed that they had been neglected by previous administrations, even as the people were suffering.

    Asuquo stated that Governor Bassey Otu had promised them during the campaigns that their problem would be a thing of the past.

    “We have indeed started noticing that it would soon be a thing of the past. The last person who gave us this type of relief material here was the governor’s wife herself. She was touched by the plight of the Ikot Offiong people. We are so happy that you too have remembered us. God will bless you,” he said.

    Atim Effiong Okon, Ikot Offiong Women Leader. 29th May 2024.

    On her part, the women leader of Ikot Offiong, Mrs Atim Effiong Okon, expressed gratitude to Duke and prayed for God’s blessings upon him and the NDDC.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, distributing NDDC relief materials to the people of Esierebom in Calabar South. 29th May 2024.

    CONVERSEER further reports that the people of Esierebom in Calabar South Local Government Area of the stated also benefited from the gesture on the same day.

    Photos of the distribution of NDDC relief materials to the people of Ikot Offiong

    Photos of the distribution of NDDC relief materials to the people of Esierebom

  • Orok Duke calls on parents, community leaders to prioritise education, healthcare for children

    Orok Duke calls on parents, community leaders to prioritise education, healthcare for children

    As Nigeria marks the 2024 Children’s Day today, 27th May, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, Representative of Cross River State at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board, has joined in the celebrations, emphasising the crucial role of education and healthcare in shaping the future of the nation.

    Duke called on parents and community leaders to prioritise these areas to ensure a bright future for every child.

    “We have a task as parents to give our children the education they deserve,” Duke said.

    Reflecting on the challenges and uncertainties of the future, he underscored the enduring wisdom of the Biblical adage, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he grows up, he will not depart from it.” This, he stressed, remains a guiding principle in nurturing well-rounded individuals.

    Duke highlighted the critical responsibility parents and society have in moulding the future through their children. “We have a duty to mould the future, and this future will be reflected through our children,” he noted. “The foundation of their upbringing must be given proper credence if we must make meaningful progress.”

    Expressing his commitment to education and healthcare, Duke stated, “For me, I place a great premium on education and healthcare delivery.” He believes these are the cornerstones of a thriving society and essential for the well-being and development of children. “I leave my doors open to meaningful engagement that will better the lives of the children,” he added, encouraging others to adopt the same approach.

    Duke’s message resonated with many as he emphasised the importance of starting efforts to improve children’s lives immediately. “You too can do the same, and the time starts now,” he urged. This call to action is a reminder that improving children’s lives is a collective responsibility that requires immediate and sustained efforts from everyone.

    READ ALSO:

    The Cross River State NDDC Representative also spoke about the need for community involvement in supporting children’s education and health. He advocated for collaborative efforts among schools, healthcare providers, and community organisations to create an environment conducive to children’s growth and development. “Community support is vital in ensuring our children receive the best education and healthcare possible,” Duke said.

    Duke further called on policymakers to prioritise funding and resources for educational and healthcare programmes. He believes that investing in these areas will yield significant long-term benefits for the country. “Our government must allocate adequate resources to education and healthcare to secure the future of our children,” he emphasised.

    In his address, Duke acknowledged the efforts of teachers, healthcare workers, and caregivers who play an integral role in children’s lives. He praised their dedication and hard work, noting that their contributions are essential to the success and well-being of the younger generation. “We must appreciate and support those who are at the forefront of educating and caring for our children,” he said.

    Concluding his Children’s Day message, Duke reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of children. He pledged to continue working towards policies and initiatives that enhance educational and healthcare systems in Cross River State and beyond. “I will remain steadfast in my commitment to our children’s future,” he declared. “Together, we can build a better tomorrow for them.”

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke’s Children’s Day address serves as an inspiring call to action for all stakeholders to prioritise education and healthcare. His commitment and advocacy highlight the critical role these sectors play in nurturing the next generation and ensuring a prosperous future for Nigeria.