From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Cross River State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed concern over environmental challenges facing the state and called on the government to take urgent steps to address them.
The call was made during the Congress of the NUJ, Cross River State Council, held on June 3, 2026, at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre, Calabar, where members deliberated extensively on issues affecting the state.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the union emphasized the need for proactive environmental management and urged the state government, through the Ministry of Environment, to intensify efforts aimed at tackling environmental problems across Cross River State.
Congress specifically called for the prompt removal of fallen trees obstructing roads and urged the ministry to conduct a comprehensive assessment of ageing and weakened trees, particularly within the Calabar metropolis.
According to the union, such measures are necessary to prevent accidents and safeguard lives and property.
Speaking on the resolutions of the Congress, the Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, reiterated the union’s commitment to promoting public safety and environmental sustainability.
The Congress also expressed concern over the continued violation of the state government’s ban on scrap metal trading, popularly known as the “iron condemn” business.
The union urged relevant enforcement agencies to ensure strict compliance with the directive, especially in Satellite Town and other parts of Calabar where the illegal activities are reportedly still ongoing.
The NUJ noted that effective enforcement of the ban would help curb criminal activities associated with the trade and protect public infrastructure from vandalism.
Congress further called on the government and relevant stakeholders to work together in addressing environmental and security concerns in the interest of sustainable development and the well-being of residents of Cross River State.
