Category: Business Day

Delta State Government says it has exceeded its revenue projection mid-year into the 2025 budget, by 150%, and has predicted brighter future for the state and it’s citizens ahead of the 2026 budget.

Sheriff Oborevwori, the State governor, made the revelation during the state stakeholders’ engagement on 2026 budget planning process, an event held in Asaba, at the weekend.

The governor, who was represented by Sonny Ekedayen, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, recalled that the 2025 budget size was N972.2 billion out of which N630.5 billion was earmarked for Capital Expenditure while the Recurrent Expenditure was pegged at N348.8 billion.

‘As at the mid-year, the total implementation came to about N778 billion by way of revenues we received. That is, we overshoot our revenue projection by 150^ within the same period and so deserve applause’, he said. Of this amount, he said the Internally-Generated Revenue (IGR) alone was N104 billion as against N134 billion budgeted for the whole year, attributing the success to the vision and direction the current administration is providing. Also, this performance is a function of the prudence and judicious use of tax-payers monies which is now boosting public confidence as the level of compliance has increased, he added.

On expenditure, he disclosed that out of the N630 billion that was earmarked for capital budget, mid-year, N301 billion had been spent, which is about 96 percent pro-rated performance. ‘The government is spending heavily on infrastructures as a lot of payments are made to contractors. This year, we are expecting that the figures would be sustained as we end the year’, he explained.

‘The performance on the recurrent expenditure side is also looking green with over N200 billion spent against the budget of N348.8 billion, when pro-rated, we have about 86^ performance.

That is also keeping a level with the performance of the capital budget.

Some of Nigeria’s most respected voices in religion, politics, and academia have thrown their weight behind a new book, Beneath the Surface, written by Dakuku Peterside. The book, which brings together essays and policy writings, has been praised as a powerful contribution to Nigeria’s search for good governance, national growth, and democratic stability. Those who endorsed the work include Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah, former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Professor Anya O. Anya, and Professor Kyari Mohammed. Their combined reputations cover decades of leadership in the church, government, science, history, and nation-building, giving the book a strong vote of confidence.

The four leaders are not just ordinary commentators. Bishop Kukah is known worldwide for speaking truth to power and defending democracy. Fayemi, besides serving as governor, is a respected scholar of war studies. Prof. Anya has led top scientific and economic institutions in Nigeria, while Prof. Mohammed is a renowned historian and former vice-chancellor of two universities. For such seasoned figures to unite in praising one book signals that Beneath the Surface is more than just another publication. It is being recognized as a roadmap for Nigeria’s future.

Bishop Kukah, who has authored books on politics, religion, and social responsibility, described Peterside’s work as a refreshing collection. In his words, the book is ‘a salad plate of exquisite writing’ that combines deep thought with engaging storytelling. He noted that it opens a new window for Nigerians to think about fresh options for the country’s progress. Kukah’s endorsement matters because he has long been a moral voice in Nigeria’s public life. His description of the book as ‘exciting and alluring’ suggests that readers will not only gain insights but also enjoy the writing style.

For Fayemi, who governed Ekiti State and also served as Minister of Solid Minerals, Peterside represents a rare blend of politician and intellectual. He said Peterside’s essays revive the tradition of leaders who think deeply about society rather than simply chasing power. According to Fayemi, the book highlights Nigeria’s weaknesses but also shows the ‘immense possibilities of building a nation where justice and peace prevail.’ He called it ‘a must-read,’ especially for anyone hoping to understand the roots of Nigeria’s challenges. Professor Anya, who once led the Nigerian Academy of Science and co-founded the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, praised the book for being both insightful and easy to read. He said Peterside’s wide experience in public service gives the essays a unique authority. At the same time, he noted that the book raises a painful but necessary question: why does Nigeria, despite having abundant talent and resources, continue to underperform? For Anya, the book does not just criticize-it pushes readers to reflect on the gap between Nigeria’s potential and its reality.

Mohammed, a respected historian and former university leader, described ‘Beneath the Surface’ as a ‘comprehensive exploration’ of Nigeria’s politics and society. He emphasized that Peterside avoids the trap of endless lamentation. Instead, the essays point out practical ways forward, offering guidance for policymakers, academics, and ordinary citizens. He concluded that the book is essential reading for anyone serious about Nigeria’s future.

At the heart of Beneath the Surface is Peterside’s attempt to answer why Nigeria struggles with governance, despite its human and natural wealth. The book compiles his most powerful essays, blending analysis with relatable storytelling. The themes span across politics, governance, economy, and social life. Peterside does not just point out problems but also suggests reforms. He stresses accountability, stronger institutions, and investment in human development as keys to unlocking Nigeria’s progress. By writing in a style that balances intellectual depth with clarity, Peterside makes the book accessible to different audiences: government officials, business leaders, students, scholars, and ordinary Nigerians curious about the forces shaping their nation.

Nigeria is at a critical point in its democratic journey. With rising economic pressures, security threats, and governance gaps, many citizens feel frustrated about the direction of the country. Books like Beneath the Surface tap into this frustration but also offer hope by laying out practical ideas for change. The endorsements from Kukah, Fayemi, Anya, and Mohammed show that the book is striking the right chords. Coming from leaders who have themselves faced Nigeria’s challenges firsthand, their praise gives weight to the argument that Peterside’s work deserves national attention.

Bassey Otu, Cross River State governor, has felicitated former Governor Donald Duke on the occasion of his 64th birthday, describing him as a statesman of rare distinction whose legacy continues to inspire the state and the nation.

In a statement conveyed through his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Linus Obogo, Governor Otu extolled Duke as a leader whose name sparkles in the annals of Cross River’s political history. He noted that his tenure as governor remains a shining testament to courage, compassion and progress.

According to Governor Otu, ‘Former Governor Duke’s time in office was not merely about governance but a renaissance of vision, service and passion. It was a season when hope blossomed, and Cross River’s pride was rekindled. His leadership lit a path that continues to guide our collective aspirations.’

The governor stressed that Duke’s legacy is not measured only in physical structures or projects, but in the intangible yet enduring values he championed-innovation, creativity, and a bold belief in the ability of Cross River to lead where others hesitated. These, he said, remain living testaments to the power of vision-driven leadership.

He recalled that the Duke years saw Cross River reimagined as a hub of culture, tourism, and enterprise, where the Carnival Calabar gained global acclaim and the state became a reference point for creative governance. ‘Those were years when Cross River’s name was etched on the national and international map in colours too bold to fade,’ Otu remarked. Otu added that the former governor’s contributions went beyond infrastructure, capturing the very soul of the people through policies that touched lives, ignited dreams and rekindled faith in the boundless possibilities of purposeful leadership. ‘Such footprints,’ he declared, ‘cannot be erased from the sands of time.’

The governor further observed that even beyond office, Duke has remained a beacon of wisdom, radiating the qualities of an elder statesman whose words carry weight and whose life is a wellspring of inspiration for the younger generation. His enduring relevance, Otu said, speaks to a life anchored on service and vision.

‘As you celebrate sixty-four glorious years, I rejoice in your new chapter as a statesman and fountain of inspiration,’ Governor Otu said, while praying that God grants him renewed strength, abiding joy and enduring fulfilment in the years ahead.

‘On behalf of the Government and the good people of Cross River State, I heartily felicitate with you, Your Excellency, and wish you a happy 64th birthday. May your light never dim, and may your days be crowned with peace, laughter and divine favour,’ the governor added.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and reporter with Arise News, who was killed during an armed robbery incident at her Katampe, Abuja residence.

In a statement signed by Eze Anaba, its president, and Onuoha Ukeh, general secretary, the Guild described her passing as a tragic loss not only to her newsroom but to the future of Nigerian journalism.

‘By Somtochukwu’s untimely death, journalism has lost not just a good professional who was committed to shedding light on important issues and giving voice to the voiceless but also one who represented the future of journalism in the country,’ the NGE said.

The Guild linked her killing to the wider climate of insecurity facing Nigerians, stressing that violent crimes have become an everyday threat. ‘The loss of this dedicated journalist from an armed robbery incident is a stark reminder of the dangers Nigerians face daily in their homes and on the street,’ the statement noted. Condemning the rising tide of violent crimes, the editors demanded accountability and urgent reforms from the government.

‘The increasing frequency of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and other violent crimes has created an environment of fear and uncertainty for both citizens and professionals like journalists. We demand action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens,’ the Guild said.

The NGE also urged security agencies to bring Somtochukwu’s killers to justice. ‘We demand that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law,’ it stated.

Extending its solidarity to Arise News, the Guild paid tribute to the late journalist’s memory, expressing hope that her legacy would continue to inspire her colleagues.

‘We pray that the memory of this talented young journalist who died at her prime inspire excellence in journalism, even in the face of adversity. May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her,’ the Editors said.

Medical experts have warned that poor physical activity, climate change, and unhealthy diets are driving the growing heart-related problems in Nigeria.

As Nigeria joined the world to commemorate World Heart Day 2025, themed ‘Don’t Miss a Beat,’ the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) emphasised the need for stronger awareness campaigns, healthier lifestyle choices, and policy reforms to curb the rising tide of cardiovascular diseases.

Akin Osibogun, chairman, World Heart Day 2025, NHF, said that hypertension cases in the country have soared from less than 10 percent in 1990 to between 35 and 40 percent today, making it one of the fastest-growing health challenges nationwide, noting that cardiovascular diseases kill more than 20 million people globally every year, and the numbers are rising in Nigeria.

Osibogun warned that without urgent lifestyle changes and stronger public health policies, the burden of cardiovascular diseases will continue to rise. He added that poor physical activity, unhealthy diets, especially excessive salt and fried foods, obesity, and environmental pollution are driving this surge.

‘The food we eat, the amount of salt in our diet, and our tendency to sit rather than move are fueling hypertension and obesity, which in turn affect the health of our hearts,’ Osibogun said.

Speaking on environmental issues, he added that clean air, green spaces, and safe places to exercise are as critical to heart health as medicine.

‘Beyond lifestyle, environmental pollution and climate change are worsening the risk of heart disease. Clean air and safe spaces for exercise are as important as medical care.

‘Communities without parks, playgrounds, or green spaces deny people the chance to stay active and protect their hearts,’ Osibogun said.

Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, president/CEO, Consumer Advocacy for Food Safety and Nutrition Initiative (CAFSANI), reiterated that unhealthy diets, especially excessive salt intake and fried foods, are major contributors to the rising cases of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

‘We must encourage Nigerians to eat more fruits, vegetables, and healthy meals while cutting down on salt, sugar, and processed foods,’ Ogunmoyela said, adding that hydration is equally important, drinking enough water daily helps the heart work more efficiently. ‘The salt content in many of the foods we consume is far above recommended levels, and this is fueling hypertension and related heart problems.

‘We must go back to natural diets and reduce our dependence on processed foods, fried meals, and unhealthy oils,’ he said.

Ogunmoyela also stated that food manufacturers and vendors have a role to play by reducing salt and unhealthy fats in their products, noting that public education on diet is critical because many people are unaware of how much salt they are consuming daily.

Dolapo Koker, member, Nutrition Committee of NHF, warned against the increasing consumption of energy drinks by artisans and young workers, calling it a dangerous habit.

‘It is not good for their health because it kind of addicts them to it,’ she said, noting that most of those energy drinks have very high levels of caffeine, and it overstimulates the heart and puts it into hyperdrive, making it a risk factor.

Beyond healthcare delivery, experts called for policies that make communities healthier and safer, and urged the government to take decisive action.

‘We must build primary health care systems that integrate hypertension screening and treatment in all local government areas; essential drugs for related conditions must be made both available and affordable at the community level.

‘Policy makers must create safer environments, clean air, green spaces, walkways, and playgrounds, so people can exercise and live healthier lives,’ Osibogun said. To mark the 25th anniversary of World Heart Day, the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) also rolled out a series of awareness and fitness campaigns under the global theme ‘Don’t Miss a Beat,’ such as the 25 minutes for 25 days’ challenge, which encourages employees to take short daily exercise breaks in October.

According to Edirin Metseagharun, founder of Passion for Healthy Kids Initiative (PHKI), explained that students will take part in short physical activities and quizzes to encourage healthy habits.

‘Sitting is now like the new smoking, and we don’t want any child to be affected.

‘Even if it’s 15 minutes, whether they are skipping, dancing, or moving in any form, whatever keeps the heart rate rising is what we are proposing to them,’ Metseagharun said.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation says the online ticketing platform for the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service is now open for payment.

Callistus Unyimadu, Chief Public Relations Officer, NRC, said this in a statement on the corporation’s X handle on Tuesday

Umyimadu said that passengers were therefore encouraged to book their tickets online ahead of resumption on Wednesday, Oct. 1, via https://nrc.tps.ng or visit any of the designated stations to purchase their tickets.

According to him, in preparation for the resumption of services, the journey time has been reduced following a review of the Temporary Speed Restriction (TSR) to enhance operations. He added that the management of NRC appreciated the patience and understanding of its esteemed passengers during the suspension period.

He assured the public that safety, comfort, and customer satisfaction remained top priorities.

‘The new schedule is as follows: Abuja – Kaduna – Idu: 8:45 a.m., Kubwa, 9:10 a.m., Rigasa (Arrive), 11:47 a.m., Kaduna – Abuja: Rigasa, 2:30 p.m., Kubwa, 5:12 p.m., and Idu (Arrive), 5:32 p.m.

‘The NRC appreciates the patience and understanding of its esteemed passengers during the suspension period and assures the public that safety, comfort, and customer satisfaction remain our top priorities,’

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has paid the hefty sanction fee imposed on it earlier this year for repeated breaches of consumer protection regulations.

The Moroccan flag carrier, singled out as the worst offender among foreign airlines operating in Nigeria, had been issued a fine following incessant reports of short-landed baggage and a repeated pattern of silence in the face of passenger complaints. While the airline has since improved its responsiveness to aggrieved customers, the NCAA disclosed that baggage-related issues continue to affect its operations, raising concerns about the carrier’s commitment to service quality.

In a virtual meeting convened recently, the NCAA sought to understand the underlying challenges facing Royal Air Maroc, but the regulator warned that its patience is running out. Officials hinted that more sanctions could follow if the airline fails to urgently resolve the recurring baggage lapses. ‘Business dictates a change of strategy when current methods are not delivering results’.

The authority advised the airline to rethink its approach to baggage management if it wishes to maintain credibility with Nigerian travellers.

Nearly four out of ten ships owned by Nigerian interests are registered under foreign flags, according to new data from the United Nations.

The United Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in its Review of Maritime Transport 2025 report shows that 39 percent of Nigerian-owned vessels are flagged abroad rather than in Nigeria.

The practice, known as ‘flagging out,’ often reflects shipowners’ preference for foreign registries that offer lower taxes, cheaper registration fees, and more flexible regulations.

Nigeria has a total of 311 vessels with a combined carrying capacity of more than 9 million deadweight tons. Of this fleet, 228 vessels sail under the Nigerian flag, while 76 are registered abroad.

The figures place Nigeria among countries where a significant portion of shipowners avoid the national registry.

Open registries such as those of Liberia, Panama, and the Marshall Islands remain the most popular destinations for such vessels worldwide.

Researchers say the trend draws attention to the challenges facing Nigeria’s ship registry, which has struggled with competitiveness despite government efforts to attract more owners.

Nigeria’s shipping fleet is primarily shaped by its oil-driven economy. As of recent estimates, over 9o percent of Nigeria’s international trade is conducted via maritime transport, yet the country owns only a small fraction of the vessels operating in its waters.

The fleet is dominated by oil tankers and offshore support vessels (OSVs), which are essential for transporting crude oil and servicing offshore drilling platforms.

These include platform supply vessels, anchor handling tug supply vessels, and crew boats, most of which are foreign-owned and flagged, despite operating within Nigerian waters.

But Nigeria’s flag has seen modest growth. With an expanding role in liquefied natural gas exports and ambitions to become a regional maritime hub, its fleet is expanding.

The total capacity of ships under Nigeria’s flag grew by 4.9 percent between 2024 and 2025 and the number of vessels flying it reached 1,005 in 2025, equivalent to 0.9 per cent of the world’s total.

In capacity terms, those ships could carry just over 7 million tons, a 4.9 percent increase from the previous year. But measured against global shipping, Nigeria’s registered fleet accounts for only 0.3 per cent of carrying capacity and 0.6 per cent of total fleet value.

By ownership, Nigeria holds 0.7 per cent of the world fleet. That places it 32nd globally, a small but noteworthy presence for Africa’s largest economy.

Maritime trade volumes reached 12,720 million tons in 2024, growing by 2.2 percent according to Clarksons Research, even exceeding the 2013 to 2023 average of 1.8 percent.

In Africa, millions of people who form the backbone of the continent’s informal economy, street vendors, boda riders, small traders, and artisans remain locked out of traditional financial systems.

They are the ‘Every Day Earners,’ individuals working tirelessly to provide for their families. For many, smartphones, credit, or insurance have long been luxuries out of reach. But M-KOPA, an inclusive fintech that transforms traditional barriers into opportunities, is rewriting this narrative by making financial access not just possible, but affordable.

‘What matters most to us is how many people we’re actively serving every day, those who stay engaged with us over time. Our active customer number reached 3 million for the first time this year,’ said Jesse Moore, co-founder and CEO of M-KOPA.

‘When we ask customers, ‘Does M-KOPA make your life better?’ 9 out of 10 say yes. That’s a tangible and meaningful impact on millions of lives,’ Moore added.

According to the M-KOPA 2025 Impact Report, the company addresses a critical gap in Sub-Saharan Africa, where 60 percent of the population has internet coverage, but only 27 percent can afford to access it.

The report added that since 2020, M-KOPA has enabled 2.5 million first-time smartphone users, with 81 percent of women customers reporting they couldn’t afford a smartphone without M-KOPA.

‘For 55 percent of customers, M-KOPA represents their first access to any formal financial product, while 67 percent are accessing health insurance for the first time,’ it said.

Closing the financial inclusion gap

According to the World Bank’s 2025 Global Findex, 62 percent of adults in sub-Saharan Africa lack formal bank accounts, while 88 percent have never borrowed from a formal institution.

The challenge is that most financial systems are designed around salaried workers with steady incomes, rather than self-employed market traders or gig workers who often lack payslips or collateral.

M-KOPA has developed an inclusive model that breaks these barriers. With a small deposit, customers can access essential products like smartphones or electric motorbikes. They then repay in affordable daily instalments through M-KOPA’s digital platform without collateral or guarantors.

For most everyday earners, a smartphone is the first step into the digital economy. Yet affordability remains a major obstacle, as 67 percent of Africans do not own one.

The report added that M-KOPA’s smartphone financing has turned that barrier into a gateway. Nearly 80 percent of its customers report they could not have afforded a smartphone without M-KOPA.

‘Through its ‘More than a Phone’ platform, 70 percent of customers use their M-KOPA smartphone to generate income, and 59 percent report higher earnings since ownership,’ the report added.

Beyond voice calls and messaging, customers gain access to affordable data bundles, digital loans, device protection, and even health insurance.

Over the past year, M-KOPA has bundled more than 1 million hospitalisation insurance policies with smartphones, providing a safety net where previously 88 percent of adults were uninsured.

For entrepreneurs like Lydia, a Kenyan porridge seller, the impact report pointed out that this access was life-changing. Once limited by a $25 feature phone, she now uses her financed smartphone to market her food business online, secure small loans, and expand into a kiosk. Her income has risen by 300 percent, and she now employs others.

Unlocking credit for the first time

Daily device repayments not only give access to products but also build a credit history. For many, these are their first steps into formal finance.

In fact, the impact report disclosed that 38 percent of M-KOPA customers report that their digital loan through the platform was their first-ever formal loan.

Since its founding in 2010, the report disclosed that M-KOPA has served more than 7 million customers across Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Ghana, and South Africa, unlocking over $2 billion in credit.

‘In 2025 alone, 86 percent of customers surveyed said M-KOPA improved their quality of life, while 70 percent reported using their products for income generation,’ it said.

These loans range from working capital for micro-businesses to emergency cash support. Customers like Suliyat, a rice seller in Nigeria, have used M-KOPA loans to grow their businesses and avoid the exploitative lending practices that dominate informal markets.

Beyond Phones: Transport and Insurance

M-KOPA has also expanded into e-mobility, financing over 4,000 electric motorbikes across Kenya and beyond

For riders who depend on motorbikes to earn, e-mobility financing reduces fuel costs, boosts daily savings by an average of $5.62, and contributes to cleaner urban air.

‘Insurance, another pillar of financial resilience, is embedded seamlessly into M-KOPA’s model. Two-thirds of its customers accessed health insurance for the first time through the platform,’ it said.

For many women, this feature is a deciding factor in purchasing a phone. In Kenya, 40% of female customers reported choosing M-KOPA specifically for its bundled health coverage.

Bassey Otu, governor of Cross River State, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the judiciary as the state commenced the 2025/2026 Legal Year with a thanksgiving service at the Assemblies of God Church, Akim, Calabar.

Represented by Elvert Ayambem, speaker of the State House of Assembly, Otu described the thanksgiving as ‘sublime’ and praised the tradition of placing God at the center of judicial duties. He congratulated members of the Bar and Bench on the successful completion of the 2024/2025 legal year, commending their dedication, courage, and patriotism.

The governor, however, urged renewed focus on persistent challenges in justice delivery, particularly delayed trials, the over-reliance on punitive justice, and the need for continuous training of judicial officers. ‘Justice delayed is justice denied,’ he warned, stressing that prolonged detentions without speedy trials remain a grave disservice to humanity.

Otu advocated broader use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to ease prison congestion and promote restorative justice through community service, which he said would better rehabilitate offenders and reduce the burden on correctional facilities.

Announcing new reforms, the Governor disclosed that his administration had approved the construction of nine new courts across the state to decongest existing ones. He revealed that reconstruction of the fire-ravaged High Court in Ogoja is underway, SUVs have been distributed to judges to ease mobility, and a long-standing dispute with 30 magistrates has been amicably resolved with payment of their salaries and arrears.

He further outlined plans to renovate all court facilities in the state, adding that the government is considering either a full-scale renovation of the Judiciary Complex or the construction of a new multi-purpose hall. ‘The judiciary, as one arm of the tripod of governance, will continue to enjoy deserved attention under my watch,’ Otu assured.

In her address, Akon Ikpeme, chief judge of Cross River State, expressed appreciation to the Governor for his sustained support, particularly the provision of 20 vehicles to judges, including seven new ones distributed this September. She also acknowledged his commitment to improving court infrastructure and judicial welfare.

Justice Ikpeme highlighted milestones achieved under her tenure, including the appointment of 15 new judges since May 2021 and a remarkable 45% revenue increase above the 2024 target at the judiciary headquarters, an accomplishment she credited to staff dedication. She, however, appealed for further infrastructural upgrades, especially the renovation of magistrate courts and the construction of a larger ceremonial hall for official judicial sessions.

The thanksgiving service featured scripture readings, Choir ministrations, and intercessory prayers for a fruitful legal year. Delivering his exhortation titled ‘Gratitude to Jesus Christ Our Advocate’ (1 John 2:1; 1 John 3:8-9), the Calabar District Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Church, Rev. Orok Nkebem, reminded the congregation that the law was not made for the righteous but for sinners, affirming Jesus as the ultimate advocate interceding for humanity.

Dignitaries at the service included the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani, Esq.; Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Ijom Ukam; Special Adviser on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba; members of the Diplomatic Corps; Service Commanders; members of the Silk; senior lawyers; and other distinguished guests.

The thanksgiving precedes the formal court session at the Judiciary Headquarters, which will officially mark the beginning of the 2025/2026 Legal Year in Cross River State.