Commissioner Patrick Egbede Sympathizes with SPAR Mall Fire Victims, Reassures Investors

The Cross River State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, has expressed sympathy to victims and businesses affected by the fire incident at SPAR Mall in Calabar.

The fire, which caused concern among residents, customers, workers and business operators, has raised fresh concerns about the safety and protection of investments within the state.

Reacting to the incident, Commissioner Egbede extended his sympathy to those who suffered losses and expressed concern over the impact of the incident on affected businesses, workers and investors.

The Commissioner also reassured investors that the Cross River State Government remains committed to creating an environment where businesses can operate, grow and contribute to employment and economic development.

He emphasized the importance of supporting affected businesses and maintaining investor confidence in Cross River State, particularly at a time when the state is working to expand opportunities for wealth creation and employment.

The SPAR Mall incident has generated reactions across Calabar, with residents and stakeholders concerned about the extent of the damage and the consequences for businesses and workers connected to the facility.

As assessments continue, attention is expected to remain focused on the welfare of those affected, the recovery of businesses and measures that can help strengthen safety and protect investments across the state.

Ogoja Breaking News will continue to bring you updates on developments surrounding the SPAR Mall fire and other important news from Cross River State.

Stay informed. Stay ahead.

Comments

Golden Mother of Ogoja, Engr. Mrs. Aleji Jecinta Etalong, Celebrates Senator Jarigbe’s APC Senatorial Primary Victory

The political atmosphere across Cross River North has remained vibrant following the resounding victory of Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe at the APC Cross River North Senatorial Primary Election. Joining the chorus of congratulatory messages is Engr. Mrs. Aleji Jecinta Etalong, fondly known as the Golden Mother of Ogoja, who has extended her heartfelt congratulations to the distinguished lawmaker on what she described as a well-deserved and overwhelming victory. Mrs. Etalong, a respected grassroots mobilizer from Ekajuk Ward 1, noted that Senator Jarigbe’s victory is a clear testament to the confidence, trust, and unwavering support he continues to enjoy among the people of Cross River North Senatorial District. According to her, the outcome of the primary election reflects widespread satisfaction with the Senator’s quality representation, people-oriented leadership, and developmental strides at the National Assembly. As a committed advocate for grassroots polit...

OMLEHA ALUMINUM ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION LTD, SOUVENIR PRESENTATION TO THE DEP GOVERNOR OF CRS. HIS EXCELLENCY, RT HON PETER ODEY PhD BY HON. PATRICK EGBEDE.

On September 14, 2024, a significant milestone was celebrated at the commissioning ceremony of OMLEHA Aluminum Roofing and Construction Ltd., held at the company’s factory site located opposite Ogoja Army Barracks on Okuku Road. The event was honored by the presence of the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, who represented His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu. During the ceremony, AVM Emmanuel Wonah, the MD/CEO of OMLEHA Aluminum Roofing and Construction Ltd., through Hon. Patrick Egbede presented a special souvenir to the Deputy Governor. The Deputy Governor expressed immense pride in AVM Emmanuel Wonah’s dedication and compassion towards the community, recognizing the positive impact of the company’s initiatives on local employment and wealth creation. This gesture reflects the government’s support for private sector involvement in driving economic growth within Cross River State.

Deputy Governor Attends Traditional Marriage Ceremony

The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, Ph.D, has described marriage as a sacred union founded on companionship, mutual understanding, and genuine love between partners. The Deputy Governor made this known while attending the traditional marriage ceremony of the daughter of his Chief of Personal Staff, Dr. Chris Ojikpong, held in Ogoja. The colorful event attracted dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers from across the state. Speaking during the ceremony, Odey emphasized that a successful marriage is built on compatibility that must be consciously nurtured by both partners. He advised the couple to remain committed to each other and avoid undue external interference that could disrupt the peace and stability of their home. He further stressed the importance of love, patience, and adherence to sound biblical principles, noting that these values are essential for sustaining a healthy and lasting union. In a similar message, th...

Hon. Sunny Achang moves motion for Provision of Firefighting Equipment in Ogoja

In response to the increasing incidents of devastating fire outbreaks in Ogoja Local Government Area, the Member representing Mbube East Ward 1, Hon. Sunny Achang, have Moved a motion for the provision of modern firefighting equipment to enhance emergency response and safeguard lives and property. The Motion was co-sponsored by The Leader of Council Hon. Elizabeth Nkagafel Mbim The proposed bill seeks to equip Ogoja with state-of-the-art firefighting tools, fire trucks, and emergency response units, ensuring that fire outbreaks are promptly managed to minimize damage. This initiative comes as a proactive measure to curb the losses experienced by residents and businesses due to recurrent fires. Speaking on the importance of the bill, Hon. Achang emphasized the urgent need for improved fire safety infrastructure in Ogoja, citing the recent outbreaks that have led to loss of homes, businesses, and critical assets. He assured his constituents that he remains committed to priori...

The Vice Chairman of Ogoja LGA, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, representing the Executive Chairman, Hon. Chris Agbeh, attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of an access road from Adagom III to Ndok.

In Ogoja Local Government Area, a major step toward agricultural development and community integration was taken yesterday. The Vice Chairman of Ogoja LGA, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, representing the Executive Chairman, Hon. Chris Agbeh, attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of an access road from Adagom III to Ndok. The project, sponsored by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aims to enhance farming activities among refugees as they integrate into the local community. Leaders at the event emphasized that the road will not only benefit the refugee population but also boost agricultural productivity for the entire Ogoja region. Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu acknowledged the UNHCR's ongoing commitment to initiatives with long-term impact, expressing gratitude for their continued support. He also assured that the local government will provide all necessary assistance to ensure the project's success. Residents and stakeholders are o...

OGOJA LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, HON. CHRISTOPHER AGBEH REFURBISHES COUNCIL'S AMBULANCE FOR PUBLIC USE

In a remarkable display of initiative and community spirit, the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Christopher Agbeh, has refurbished the Council's ambulance and directed its usage for public service. This is designed to assist the community in times of emergency and related cases while also serving as a source of revenue for the Council. This approach is to galvanize an increase in revenue generation which highlights the Chairman's commitment to exploring alternative sources of income for the local government. He disclosed this during the handover of the Ambulance to the agency responsible for its operation. Hon. Agbeh emphasized the importance of prioritizing the people’s needs, urging the ambulance operators to be at service at all times. He also reminded them to adhere to the terms of the agreement, proper maintenance and ensure proper remittance of the proceeds to the government’s revenue unit. In response, the ambulance dr...

Strengthening Grassroots Representation in Cross River State

Effective governance begins at the grassroots. It is at this level that policies meet the people, and where true representation must be felt, not just promised. Recent developments surrounding the release of Ward and LGA Chapter Stakeholders’ Lists in Cross River State have brought an important issue to light—one that speaks directly to the heart of inclusive governance. Across the state, Ward Development Officers who also serve as Special Assistants have played a critical role in grassroots engagement. These individuals are not distant actors; they are embedded within communities, working closely with citizens to mobilize support, communicate government initiatives, and drive development efforts where they matter most. However, their omission from the official stakeholders’ lists has raised concerns about representation and inclusiveness. This is not merely an administrative oversight, it touches on the broader principle of ensuring that every key contributor to grassroots...

Fred Obi Secures Multi-Year Content Creation Deal With Xavi Homes

In another exciting development for Ogoja’s creative and real estate sectors, popular media personality and digital content creator Fred Obi has officially signed a long-term partnership with Xavi Homes, one of the region’s leading property development companies. The deal, which extends until the end of 2026, positions Fred Obi as the official content creator for Xavi Homes—tasked with showcasing the company’s projects, land offerings, customer engagements, and overall brand story to a wider audience. A “November to Remember” for Fred Obi Announcing the development on his official social media page, Fred Obi described the new deal as a “November to remember”, expressing pride in the confidence the management of Xavi Homes has placed in him. Photos from the signing ceremony show a warm and professional atmosphere, reflecting the mutual respect between both parties. Xavi Homes Expands Real Estate Footprint in Ogoja Xavi Homes continues to strengthen its presence i...

BREAKING NEWS: C’River Youth Chairman Advocates Structured Youth Development After Abuja Dialogue

The Chairman of the Cross River State Youth Council has emphasized the urgent need for a structured and intentional approach to youth development, following his participation at the recently held Abuja Dialogue on youth leadership. Speaking after the high-level engagement in Abuja, the youth leader highlighted that the future of Cross River—and Nigeria at large—depends heavily on how well young people are prepared for leadership roles. According to him, youth development must go beyond slogans and ceremonial inclusion, stressing that deliberate systems, mentorship, and institutional support are critical to nurturing capable leaders. The Abuja Dialogue, which brought together key stakeholders from across the country, focused on repositioning youth leadership as a strategic pillar for national development. At the event, national leaders stressed that Nigeria’s large youth population would only become an advantage if supported by strong policies and structured opportunities....

Hon. James Abuo (Bobkeke) sponsor motion of urgent public importance aimed at addressing transportation challenges in Ogoja.

The Chief Whip and Councilor representing Mbube West 1, Hon. James Abuo (Bobkeke), in collaboration with the Deputy Leader from Mbube East 1, Hon. Sunny A. Achang, sponsored motion of urgent public importance aimed at addressing transportation challenges in Ogoja. Following the commendable efforts of the Executive Chairman, who introduced mini-buses to cushion the impact of rising transport costs, private transporters have also flooded the streets with their own vehicles. While this move has contributed to easing transportation, it has also created concerns, including irregular fare pricing and security risks. To curb these issues, the motion proposes that all mini-buses operating in Ogoja must be registered and branded with the official local government colors. This initiative will help regulate transport fares, maintain order, and enhance security by reducing crimes such as kidnapping, theft, and fraudulent activities commonly known as "One Chance." The key reso...

Ogoja Breaking News

Search This Blog