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66-573: Afi is managed by the Cross River State Forestry Commission/Ministry of Climate Change and Forestry. Although the steep mountainous slopes of the sanctuary have largely protected the forest from logging, it is frequently damaged by dry-season bush fires that are set to clear land for farming or to catch game. Open areas created by fire are quickly colonized by herb species which form an important staple food for gorillas. The largest African wintering ground of

132-408: A broad annual rainfall zone, receiving an average of 3,000 mm to 3,800 mm of rainfall, with variations increasing from lowland to uphill areas. The rainy season typically spans from March to September, while the dry season extends from October to March. The mean temperature across Afi Mountain is approximately 22.2 °C, but it rises to 27.4 °C in the lowland areas. The protected region

198-484: A dominant male. Conservation-wise, the monkey holds a status of "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species . However, akin to numerous primate species, they encounter threats such as habitat degradation due to deforestation, hunting for bushmeat, and illegal wildlife trade. Similar to many primates, the white-throated monkey serves a crucial role in its ecosystem by aiding in seed dispersal, promoting

264-574: A habitat for a majority of the remaining flora and fauna species, particularly mammalian herbivores. However, human activities are causing increasing degradation of wildlife sanctuaries. Anthropogenic activities like game exploitation, logging, farming, and urbanization in the vicinity of protected areas pose significant challenges to wildlife conservation, particularly in West Africa. Consequently, numerous species have become rare, and their population numbers and habitats have seen significant declines in

330-487: A notable decline in overall biological productivity. There is a report concerning loss of about 34% of the original wildlife habitat in Nigeria. Consequently, this has impacted wildlife resources within these ecological systems, leaving only fragmented populations of wildlife resources within designated protected areas such as wildlife sanctuaries, game reserves, and national parks. A wildlife sanctuary, often situated within

396-491: A particular focus on the Cross River gorilla ( Gorilla gorilla diehli ), Nigerian-Cameroon chimpanzee ( Pan troglodytes eliotii ), and drill ( Mandrillus leucophaeus ). Surrounding this protected area are sixteen human communities, which include Katabang, Buanchor, Olum, Enyi, Kakwagom, Esekwe, Ebok-Ebuawa, Asuben, Bitiah, Kakubok, Ndemachang, Katchie, Ebbaken, Okubuchi, Nkanyia, and Njua-Kaku. The entire region falls within

462-555: A protected area, serves as a natural haven where specific species receive complete protection. The Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary is a notable illustration, and was designated from the Afi River Forest Reserve primarily to safeguard various primate species, including the Cross River gorilla, chimpanzee, drill monkey, and the mona monkey. The Afi Mountains encompass remnants of the original rainforests in

528-428: A significant risk. The Cross River rainforest is now identified as a top priority area for conservation, particularly for the mona monkey, according to a recent IUCN action plan. Hence, evaluating the population status of the mona monkey is crucial to ensure effective protection of the species in its natural habitat. The Nigeria mona monkey is a matter of serious concern for various stakeholders due to Nigeria being home to

594-728: A subgroup of the Idoma nation, part of the Yala LGA's subgroups are the Igede speaking people believed to have migrated from the Oju part of Benue State, who migrated from Ora, in Edo North. In Cross River North, Bekwarra is one of the most widely spoken language. It is understood by other tribes in the district. This language along with Efik and Ejagham is used for news broadcast in the state owned radio and TV stations. Cross River State epitomises

660-422: A thriving primate population can serve as a reliable indicator of the overall health of a rainforest ecosystem. Threats resulting from forest loss, leading to wildlife decline, encompass forest fragmentation, primate crop raiding, and hunting of primates for medicinal purposes, as pets, and for food, adversely impacting the ability of primates to survive in the near future. In order to secure the lives of animals on

726-531: A walkway through the forest canopy, 25 metres above the ground. 6°20′N 9°00′E  /  6.333°N 9.000°E  / 6.333; 9.000 Cross River State Cross River State is a state in the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria . Cross River State was formed from the eastern part of the Eastern Region on 27 May 1967. Its capital is Calabar , it borders to

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792-526: Is Bassey Edet Otu , who was sworn into office on 29 May 2023. He was elected for a four-year term in office under the platform of All Progressive Congress (APC). Cross River state derives its name from the Cross River, which passes through the state. It is a coastal state located in the Niger Delta region, and occupies 20,156 square kilometers. It shares boundaries with Benue state to the north for 188 km (117 miles), Ebonyi and Abia states to

858-402: Is arboreal , living in moist tropical forest and the wettest parts of dry tropical forest, however it can also be found in secondary bush and old farmland. Males weigh from 3.5–4.5 kg and females weigh 2–4 kg. Females give birth to one offspring, which is a factor of decreasing population. The white-throated guenon was once considered extinct due to constant hunting for

924-411: Is categorized as "Least Concern," and it is exclusive to Nigeria and Cameroon. These monkeys are of small to medium size and usually dwell in groups of up to 35. There is limited comprehensive data on the population of this species, relying mostly on rough approximations. The primary threat to the survival of mona monkeys is considered to be poaching for the bush meat trade, although habitat loss also poses

990-459: Is crucial for wildlife population management. Reliable knowledge of the status and trends of animal populations, gathered through inventories and socio-ecological studies, is a fundamental requirement for successful wildlife conservation programs. Therefore, understanding the number of individuals within the subspecies, their distribution, and abundance is a vital component of ecological studies focusing on gorillas and their habitat, particularly within

1056-532: Is habitat loss. Herbivores are often utilized as indicator species, especially in the dynamics of land use and land cover. This sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot within the mountainous and relatively rugged rainforest area at the border of Southeastern Nigeria and Southwestern Cameroon. In May 2000, the Cross River State Government established this sanctuary with the primary goal of safeguarding endemic and endangered wildlife species, with

1122-600: Is lengthy and often culminates in a tuft of white fur. This monkey species primarily inhabits the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa, including various forest types like primary and secondary forests. Their activity is mainly diurnal and arboreal, spending a significant portion of their time in trees. Their dietary preferences encompass fruits, leaves, seeds, insects, and sporadically, small animals. These monkeys exhibit exceptional climbing skills and agility in jumping. Their social structure involves group living, ranging from small clusters to larger troops, typically led by

1188-500: Is no existing record of prior surveys focusing on this monkey in the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, despite its potential for ecotourism. Habitat disturbance triggered by deforestation is a primary concern, resulting in a reduction in the population of various animal species due to either mortality or migration to more stable habitats. Another significant challenge is indiscriminate hunting, contributing to

1254-542: Is primarily situated in the tropical high forest vegetation zone and is rich in various tree species, including Pterocarpus osun, Albizia zygia, Parkia bicolor, Pycnanthus angolensis, Irvingia gabonensis, and Monodora myristica. Additionally, the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS) is home to notable wildlife species such as the red river hog ( Potamochoerus porcus ), bushbuck ( Tragelaphus scriptus ), Shelley’s eagle owl ( Bubo Shelleyi ), African piculet ( Sasia africana ), migrating European barn swallows ( Hirundo rustica ), and

1320-607: The 36 states in Nigeria, Cross River state is the nineteenth largest in area and 27th most populous , with an estimated population of over 3.8 million as of 2016. Geographically, the state is mainly divided between the Guinean forest–savanna mosaic in the far north and the Cross–Sanaga–Bioko coastal forests in the majority of the interior of the state. The smaller ecoregions are the Central African mangroves in

1386-679: The Efik of the riverside south and Calabar ; the Ekoi (Ejagham) of the inland south; the Akunakuna , Boki , Bahumono , and Yakö (Yakurr) of the central region ; and the Bekwarra , Ogoja , Bette , Igede , Ukelle (Kukele) of the northern region. In the pre-colonial period, what is now Cross River state was divided between its ethnic groups with some joining the Aro Confederacy , while

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1452-513: The European swallow is in the western part of the sanctuary, where an estimated 20 million of these birds roost during the winter. The Sanctuary is surrounded by 16 communities with a total population of approximately 27,000 people. Wildlife sanctuaries play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and represent significant ecotourism potential, making them prominent sites for effective management and conservation efforts. These sanctuaries provide

1518-666: The Igbo -majority of the former Eastern Region attempted to secede as the state of Biafra ; in the three-year long Nigerian Civil War . Calabar and its port was hard-fought over in Operation Tiger Claw , while the people from Cross River state were persecuted by the Biafran forces as they were mainly non-Igbos. At the war's end and the reunification of Nigeria, the South-Eastern state was reformed until 1976, when it

1584-953: The Ikom Monoliths (a series of volcanic-stone monoliths of unknown age), the Mary Slessor Tomb, Calabar Drill Monkey Sanctuary, Cross River National Park , Afi Mountain walkway canopy, Kwa Falls, Agbokim waterfalls, Tinapa Business Resort, Mono railway and the annual Calabar Carnival that takes place during the Christmas period. Cross River State can be accessed by air through the Margaret Ekpo International Airport at Calabar. There are daily flights to Calabar from Lagos and Abuja serviced by airlines such as Air peace Airlines, Ibom Air Airlines and recently Cally Air , operated by Aero Contractors which worked for about 5 months in 2021 and at

1650-808: The Yakurr /Agoi/ Bahumono ethnic groups in Yakurr and Abi LGA, while the Mbembe are predominantly found in Obubra LGA. Further up the core northern part of the state are several sub-dialectical groups, among which are Etung, Olulumo, Ofutop, Nkim/Nkum, Abanajum, Nseke and Boki in both Ikom, Etung and Boki LGAs. Also, the Yala/Yache, Igede, Ukelle, Ekajuk, Mbube, Bette, Bekwarra and Utukwang people are found in Ogoja, Yala, Obudu, Obanliku and Bekwarra LGAs. The Yala are

1716-485: The Afi and Mbe Mountains. Estimating the population of Cross River gorillas is essential for assessing the habitat's suitability. Gorillas, much like the majority of primates, serve as valuable indicator species. Their presence and abundance within various ecosystems offer insights into hunting pressure, disease prevalence, and resource availability, aiding in conservation efforts. The Nigeria mona monkey ( Cercopithecus mona )

1782-763: The Archdiocese of Calabar (1934) with 51 parishes [2] under Archbishop Joseph Effiong Ekuwem (2013) [3] and the suffragan diocese of Ogoja (1938) [4] with 79 parishes under Bishop Donatus Edet Akpan (2017). [5] The Anglican Province of the Niger Delta includes the Diocese of Calabar led by Bishop Nneoyi O. Egbe. [6] Languages of Cross River State listed by LGA includes : Other languages spoken in Cross State are Eki, Ibibio, Ilue, Ito, and Okobo. Festivals held in Cross River state includes: From

1848-635: The Bekwarra among others. There are four major languages spoken in the state: English, the common language, Efik, Bekwarra, and Ejagham. The Efik language is widely spoken in Cross River State, especially in Calabar Municipality, Calabar South, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Akampkpa, Biase, and Odukpani Local Government Areas. The Ejagham language is also widely spoken language in Cross River State. The Efik-speaking people live mainly in

1914-836: The Efik founded the Akwa Akpa (Old Calabar) city-state. The latter become a British protectorate in 1884, as the capital of the Oil Rivers Protectorate ; but it was in the early 1900s that the Britons gained formal control of the entire area. Around the same time, the protectorate (now renamed the Niger Coast Protectorate ) was incorporated into the Southern Nigeria Protectorate , which later merged into British Nigeria . After

1980-485: The Southern Nigeria eco-zone, representing a crucial hope for preserving the region's remaining biological diversity over the long term. This sanctuary boasts a diverse collection of flora and fauna species. Moreover, it stands as a prominent site contributing to the achievement of the nation's tourism objectives, featuring appealing tourist attractions for potential visitors in Southern Nigeria. Recognized within

2046-732: The Southern senatorial districts of Cross River, or as it is commonly referred to, the Greater Calabar district, which includes Calabar Municipality, Calabar South, Bakassi, Biase, Akpabuyo, Odukpani, and Akamkpa LGAs. There is also the Qua community in Calabar, which speaks Ejagham. The main Ejagham group occupies mostly the Greater Calabar areas of Calabar Municipality, Odukpani, Biase and Akamkpa sections of Cross River State. There are also

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2112-473: The State includes: Federal highways Two roads to Cameroon : Other major roads include: Waterways: Calabar is a major port, with navigable waterways on Cross River. Airports: Margaret Ekpo International Airport at Calabar (1983), and Bebi Airstrip . The state government is led by a democratically elected governor who works closely with members of the state house of assembly . The capital city of

2178-578: The State, Calabar, has a significant record of rainfall within the year, while the dry season has less significant effect in the state due to the depth of rainfall experienced. Based on the records presented by the Climate Data of the state, the annual rainfall of Cross River state is 3306mm (130.2 inches). The State is composed of several ethnic groups, which include the Efik , the Ejagham , Yakurr , Bahumono , Bette, Yala, Igede , Ukelle and

2244-405: The bare-necked rock fowl ( Picarthertes oreas ). The white-throated monkey or White-throated guenon , ( Cercopithecus erythrogaster ), ranks among the planet's severely endangered primates. Despite being safeguarded by Nigeria's Endangered Species Decree No. 11 of 1985, it receives conservation and protection exclusively within national parks, game reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries. Notably, there

2310-873: The city of Calabar and flowing into the Cross River Estuary as well. In the forested interior of the state are several biodiverse protected areas including the Cross River National Park , Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary , and Mbe Mountains Community Forest . These wildlife reserves contain populations of Preuss's red colobus , African forest buffalo , bat hawk , tree pangolin , grey-necked rockfowl , and West African slender-snouted crocodile , along with some of Nigeria's last remaining Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee , drill , African forest elephant , and Cross River gorilla populations. Modern-day Cross River state has been inhabited by several ethnic groups for hundreds of years, primarily

2376-446: The climate of Cross River state is tropical . Not only this, the state is also characterised with relative humidity . The average temperature of the state is between 15°C and 30°C. However, this climatic condition is different in locations within the Cross River state such as the high plateau of Obudu , which has a record of a fall in temperature between 4°C and 10°C, as a result of the high altitude of this area. The capital city of

2442-549: The coastal far south and a part of the montane Cameroonian Highlands forests in the extreme northeast. The most major geographical feature is the state's namesake, the Cross River , which bisects the state's interior before forming much of the state's western border and flowing into the Cross River Estuary. Other important rivers are the Calabar and Great Kwa rivers, which flow from the inland Oban Hills , before flanking

2508-399: The cost of wildlife populations, particularly larger animals. Widespread devastation of wildlife and their habitats has resulted in a decline in wildlife populations, particularly primates. This decline predates the establishment of settled agriculture and animal husbandry. Primates, the closest relatives of humans in the entire living world, inhabit tropical forests and savanna woodlands within

2574-428: The ecological balance in protected areas, affecting various fauna species within these ecosystems. This disruption has significantly increased the rate of mammal extinction, impacting more than one-fifth of all global mammal species. Despite their important ecosystem services, fauna species continue to be endangered by human-induced activities. Habitat destruction and degradation stand out as major factors contributing to

2640-417: The extinction and decline of mammalian herbivores. Mammalian herbivores encompass mammals of various body sizes, both small and large, adapted to consuming plant materials and playing a fundamental role in rangeland dynamics. They are categorized into grazers, primarily feeding on grasses and forbs, and browsers, primarily feeding on woody vegetation. These herbivores inhabit diverse terrestrial ecosystems across

2706-597: The forested corridor spanning the Afi Mountains and Mbe Mountains. The Mbe Mountains host the nearest subpopulations of Cross River gorillas, making it a top priority for the AMWS partnership to safeguard the forested corridor connecting these areas. This protection is crucial to prevent the permanent isolation of gorillas and other mammals in the Afi Mountains, facilitating the development of specific conservation strategies and policies to advance gorilla conservation in both

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2772-576: The fur of its unique red belly and white front legs. Yet, a small group was found near the Niger River in 1988. The white-throated guenon is still considered an endangered species due to its decreasing population. It is present within Nigerian forest reserves and sacred groves in Benin but hunting and logging restrictions are difficult to enforce or nonexistent. It is one of the species that live in

2838-428: The globe. Protected areas hold ecological significance for both large and small mammals, influencing the extent of vegetation degradation and improvement. Human activities have significantly impacted the biosphere by altering original vegetation cover, replacing it with either different flora or artificial structures. On a global scale, one of the most ecologically significant anthropogenic impacts on mammalian herbivores

2904-469: The growth and regeneration of plants and trees within the forest. The Cross River gorilla ( Gorilla gorilla diehli ), a specific type within the western gorilla ( Gorilla gorilla ) family, is primarily situated in adjacent forest sections along the borders of South-Southern Nigeria and South-Western Cameroon. This region is acknowledged as a biodiversity hotspot, notable for its abundance of species and endemism. Regrettably, this subspecies stands as one of

2970-582: The highest number of local government Areas. White-throated guenon The white-throated guenon ( Cercopithecus erythrogaster ), also known as the red-bellied monkey and the red-bellied guenon , is a diurnal primate that lives on trees of rainforests or tropical areas of Nigeria and Benin . The white-throated guenon is usually a frugivore but insects, leaves, and crops are also in its diet. It usually lives in small groups of four to five individual monkeys however, there have been groups of 30 discovered, and in cases, some males wander alone. It

3036-455: The internationally acclaimed Gulf of Guinea biodiversity hotspot, the sanctuary holds significant importance. This region is considered a crucial stronghold for a substantial portion of pristine tropical forest in Nigeria, displaying the highest diversity among protected forests in West Africa. Additionally, it ranks among the locations renowned for their high primate species diversity in Nigeria. The burgeoning growth of human populations comes at

3102-575: The last significant population of mona monkeys in both Africa and globally. Despite being a subject of interest among primate communities, there is limited comprehensive information available about this species. In Nigeria, a significant challenge in wildlife conservation stems from the escalating rate of habitat degradation or alteration caused by human actions. The extensive destruction and inadequate management of Nigeria's forest ecosystems are evident and have been exacerbated by ecological crises and climate change , resulting in diminished soil fertility and

3168-402: The loss of these forests is seen as the most significant threat to their survival. It indicates that there are approximately 625 distinct primate species and subspecies, with almost all being endangered. Similar to other large mammals, primates are relatively easy to survey because they are conspicuous and face significant hunting pressure, making them valuable indicator species. In this context,

3234-487: The merger, much of the modern-day Cross River state has become a center of anti-colonial resistance during the Women's War and trade, through the international seaport at Calabar . After independence in 1960, the area now regarded as Cross River state was a part of the post-independence Eastern Region until 1967, when the region was split and the area became part of the South-Eastern state. Less than two months afterwards,

3300-455: The most critically endangered primates in Africa. In fact, it has been recognized as one of the planet's 25 most endangered primates. With human expansion encroaching on their habitats, the Cross River gorilla faces a swift decline in habitat, posing a serious threat to its population. The Cross River gorilla, chimpanzee ( Pan troglodytes vellorosus ), and drill ( Mandrillus leucophaeus ) are among

3366-427: The mountain, community protection patrols were put in place. Local hunters were encouraged to use from trapping instead of shooting. An education and sensitization program was organized in the 16 villages surrounding the mountain, which brought the members of communities together for the first time as a common interest group. While hunting has been kept under control in the surrounding communities through proper awareness,

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3432-644: The nation's linguistic and cultural plurality and it is important to note that, in spite of the diversity of dialects, all the Indigenous languages in the state have common linguistic roots as Niger-Congo languages. Finally, the State serves as the venue of the largest carnival in Africa. Cross River State consists of eighteen (18) Local Government Areas . They are: The majority of Cross Riverians are predominantly Christian with minorities practicing different ethnic indigenous religions. The Catholic Church includes

3498-484: The north through Benue state , to the west through Ebonyi state and Abia state , and to the southwest through Akwa Ibom state , while its eastern border forms part of the national border with Cameroon . Originally known as the South-Eastern State before being renamed in 1976, Cross River state formerly included the area that is now Akwa Ibom state , which became a distinct state in 1987. 0ut of

3564-422: The past century. Human activities, both legal and illegal, can lead to the extinction of fauna species, particularly mammalian herbivores, and the loss of herbivores can disrupt ecosystems, often negatively affecting other species and ecosystem services . Both the environment and anthropogenic effects pose threats to the populations of large and small mammals. Human activities, especially illegal ones, have disrupted

3630-472: The population decline of numerous animal species within any given habitat. Hence, it faces a considerable threat. The white-throated monkey possesses distinctive white fur on its chest and throat, providing a stark contrast to the dark hue of the rest of its fur. Typically, its coat is a dark olive-brown or blackish shade and features a white rump patch. Its facial area is devoid of fur, displaying dark skin, and notable white beard and moustache features. Its tail

3696-637: The primates protected by the Endangered Species Decree 11 of 1985, yet they face the threat of being hunted for bushmeat and other purposes. The critical challenge to the survival of this subspecies lies in the absence of a comprehensive conservation strategy essential for its protection. Effectively conserving wild animal species necessitates accurate and reliable information regarding their population numbers, age distribution, sex ratio, productivity rates, distribution, daily routines, and seasonal movements. Obtaining precise population estimates

3762-571: The sanctuary holds a partnership with individuals to enable continuous protection of its forest and wildlife. Afi is covered by an estimated 100 km² of lowland and sub-montane forest with rocky peaks rising to altitudes of 1,300m. Although the steep mountainous slopes of the sanctuary have largely protected it from logging the forest is frequently damaged by dry-season bush fires set to clear new farms or to flush game. The Afi Mountain Ranch provides accommodation for tourists in cabins. The ranch has

3828-755: The senator representing Calabar senatorial district then was at the helm of affairs. Its capital is Calabar. Its major towns are Calabar Municipality, Akamkpa , Biase , Calabar South , Ikom , Igede , Obubra , Odukpani , Ogoja , Bekwarra , Ugep , Obudu , Obanliku , Akpabuyo , Ofutop, Iso-bendghe, Danare, Boki , Yala , Bendeghe Ekiem, Etomi, Ediba , Itigidi , Ugep , Ukpe and Ukelle . The state has many governors and administrators including Udoakaha J. Esuene, Paul Omu, Tunde Elegbede, Clement Isong , Donald Etiebet, Daniel Archibong , Ibim Princewill, Ernest Attah , Clement Ebri, Ibrahim Kefas, Gregory Agboneni, Umar Faoruk Ahmed, Christopher Osondu, Donald Duke , Liyel Imoke and Benedict Ayade . The current Governor

3894-696: The soaring plateaus of the mountain tops of Obanliku to the Rain forests of Afi, from the Waterfalls of Agbokim and Kwa to the spiralling ox-bow Calabar River which provides sights and images of the Tinapa Business Resort , Marina Resort , Calabar Residency Museum and the Calabar Slave Park along its course, there is always a thrilling adventure awaiting the eco-tourist visiting Cross River State. Other tourist attractions are

3960-407: The start of 2022, it stopped operation. The Cross River state-owned airline, Cally Air, might have run aground after two years of operations and operational debt in excess of N900 million to its technical partner, Aero Contractors. Education started with mother tongue education. Presently, a lot of schools in the state for educative learning in the society. The Tertiary educational institutions in

4026-422: The state is Calabar . The governor of each state is selected using a modified two-round system. To be elected in the first round, a candidate must receive the plurality of the vote and over 25% of the vote in at least two -third of the State local government Areas. If no candidate passes threshold, a second round will be held between the top candidate and the next candidate to have received a plurality of votes in

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4092-483: The tropics. While they are widespread, they are no longer secure due to intense human-induced impacts such as poaching, uncontrolled collection of non-timber forest products, unsustainable agricultural practices, logging of wild trees for timber, and indiscriminate bush burning. The expanding human populations encroaching into forest habitats and clearing forests for agriculture are the primary reasons for forest loss . Given that primates are most diverse in tropical forests,

4158-710: The west for 198 km (123 miles) and about 52 km respectively (partly across Cross River), to the east by Sud-Ouest Province in Cameroon for about 290 km (181 miles), partly across the Sankwala Mountains and the Akwayafe River, and to the south by Akwa-Ibom for about 114 km (71 miles) mostly across Cross River and the Atlantic Ocean . The state is made up of 18 Local Government Area Councils . Like few other Nigerian states,

4224-541: The wildlife reserves along with the historic Ikom Monoliths site, Calabar Carnival , and Obudu Mountain Resort . Cross River state has the joint-thirteenth highest Human Development Index in the country and numerous institutions of tertiary education. Cross River as a south-south state was created on 27 May 1967 from the former Eastern Region, Nigeria , by the General Yakubu Gowon regime. Its name

4290-429: Was changed to Cross River state in the 1976 state creation exercise by the then General Murtala Mohammed regime from South Eastern State. The present day Akwa Ibom State was excised from it in the state creation exercise of September 1987 by the then regime of General Ibrahim Babangida . The struggle for a new state creation started in 1980 in the reign of president Shehu Shagari where Senator Joseph Oqua Ansa (Mon)

4356-623: Was renamed Cross River state. Eleven years later, Cross River state was divided with western Cross River being broken off to form the new Akwa Ibom state . The state formerly contained the oil-producing Bakassi Peninsula , but it was ceded to Cameroon under the terms of the Greentree Agreement . As an agricultural state, the Cross River state's economy partially relies on crops, such as cocoyam , rubber , oil palm , yam , cocoa , cashews , and plantain crops, along with fishing. Key minor industries involve tourism in and around

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