Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: Cross River

  • Nigerian Army Secures Surrender of 80 Militants in Cross River

    Nigerian Army Secures Surrender of 80 Militants in Cross River

    The Nigerian Army has confirmed the voluntary surrender of 80 militants in Cross River State, under a state-backed amnesty program. The group reportedly emerged from two camps in Akpabuyo LGA and handed over assorted arms and ammunition.

    Media reports attribute the outcome to “Operation OKWOK,” combining kinetic and non-kinetic engagement, with surrendered individuals undergoing profiling and preparation for de-radicalization and reintegration.

    Echotitbits take: Amnesty can reduce violence when paired with credible reintegration pathways. The decisive variable will be post-surrender livelihoods—without economic off-ramps, recidivism risk remains high.

    Source: Vanguard – vanguardngr.com/2026/01/army-announces-surrender-of-80-militants-in-cross-river/ (January 17, 2026)

    Photo Credit: Vanguard

  • Cross River Revenue Service Suspends New Assessments as It Tightens Reform Processes

    Cross River Revenue Service Suspends New Assessments as It Tightens Reform Processes

    Reporting by Tribune indicates Cross River’s revenue administration paused new tax assessments while it reviews and tightens processes linked to reform-era enforcement changes.

    The policy logic is consistent with crackdowns aimed at reducing leakages, standardizing assessments, and limiting opaque cash collection practices.

    Short-term disruptions are possible if taxpayers and businesses lack clear guidance on what applies, when, and how disputes will be handled.

    Radio Nigeria also reported the suspension directive as part of process tightening, while GazetteNGR highlighted the state’s push toward reform-aligned, cashless tax practices, noting “end cash tax payments” in its summary.

    Echotitbits take: Watch for published taxpayer guidelines and a credible appeals mechanism—those separate reform from confusion.

    Source: Guardian – https://guardian.ng/news/tax-reform-act-crirs-suspends-tax-assessment-process-for-review/ January 10, 2026

    Guardian 2026-01-10

    Photo Credit: Guardian

  • FirstBank rolls out 500-seat premium viewing stand for Carnival Calabar

    FirstBank rolls out 500-seat premium viewing stand for Carnival Calabar

    2025-12-29 09:00:00
    According to Punch, FirstBank says it built a 500-capacity premium bleacher to improve spectator comfort and safety at Carnival Calabar 2025, framing it as part of its long-running support for arts and culture.

    The project blends branding with tourism economics: a better viewing experience can help the festival attract higher-value visitors, sponsors and media coverage.

    The Guardian also reported the development, describing the facility as a first-of-its-kind private premium bleacher introduced for the carnival.

    Organisers and sponsors are pitching the stand as private-sector infrastructure support for one of Nigeria’s most visible cultural tourism events.

    The Guardian quoted FirstBank: “We are introducing the first-ever private 500-seater premium bleacher…,” while Punch said the stand was designed to offer “comfort, safety” and a better viewing experience.

    Echotitbits take: Sponsorship is good, but the long-term win is tourism receipts—hotel occupancy, small business sales and repeat visits. Watch for post-event economic impact numbers and whether other corporates replicate infrastructure-style sponsorships.

    Source: Independent — https://independent.ng/firstbank-introduces-exclusive-500-seater-bleacher-at-carnival-calabar-festival-2025/ – December 29, 2025
    Independent 2025-12-29

    Photo Credit: Independent

  • C’River Assembly Sacks LG Chairman, Orders By-Election

    The Cross River State House of Assembly has removed the Chairman of Bekwarra LGA from office and directed that a by-election be held. The decision follows tensions over local-government administration and accountability.

    PUNCH

    11 Dec 2025