The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Calabar Branch, has honoured the Director General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA), Mr. Efa Nyong, with an Award of Excellence for his contribution to humanity and commitment to strengthening collaboration in disaster management.
The award was presented to Nyong on Saturday, September 12, 2026, during the Calabar Branch’s World AIDS Day event, in recognition of his contributions to disaster management and the positive impact of his leadership at CR-SEMA barely two months after assuming office.
Nyong was honoured alongside the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. (Mrs.) Helen Agan Isamoh, and seasoned academician and physician, Elder Dr. (Mrs.) Nkese Mkpanam, for their contributions to humanitarian service and the advancement of the Red Cross mandate.
Speaking at the event, Nyong congratulated the Nigerian Red Cross Society and conveyed the goodwill of the Cross River State Government and Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, to the organisation.
He reaffirmed his commitment to proactive and people-oriented disaster management in the state, stressing the need for sustained collaboration between CR-SEMA, the Nigerian Red Cross Society and other relevant stakeholders.
Reacting to the recognition, Nyong expressed appreciation to the Red Cross for considering him worthy of the honour barely 60 days after assuming office. “This award is an encouragement to do more,” he said, assuring that his administration would remain focused on putting people at the centre of emergency management while strengthening partnerships that would improve the state’s capacity to respond to disasters.
“We will continue to synergise with the Nigerian Red Cross Society and other critical stakeholders in advancing disaster preparedness, response and humanitarian interventions across the state,” Nyong said.
Chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Calabar Branch, Prof. Chris Eneji, commended Nyong for his efforts since assuming office, noting the positive impact of his leadership on the agency’s engagement with the Red Cross.
Eneji advocated for the CR-SEMA DG to formally become a member of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, saying, “His membership of the Red Cross will further strengthen the existing relationship and deepen collaboration between both organisations.”
Similarly, the Branch Secretary of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Calabar, Mr. Eni Joseph, commended Nyong, describing his impact within CR-SEMA and the humanitarian space as “noticeable within the short period” since his assumption of office.
By David Asu
