The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • DESOPADEC renews anti-drug, anti-cult campaigns in Delta schools

    DESOPADEC renews anti-drug, anti-cult campaigns in Delta schools

    In a renewed effort to address the alarming rise in drug and substance abuse, as well as cult-related activities among teenagers, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has launched an intensified sensitization initiative across secondary schools in Ndokwa Nation of the state. 

    Spearheaded by Chief Festus Ochonogor, the Managing Director/CEO, this latest outreach is part of a broader strategy to protect adolescent well-being in oil-producing areas.

    On November 28, 2025, the commission visited Ebologu Grammar School and St. Kizito College in Utagba-Uno. 

    During those sessions, students were provided with crucial, practical information regarding the dangers associated with drug misuse and the detrimental long-term effects of cultism.

    The Community Development and Public Enlightenment Department of DESOPADEC emphasized that this campaign plays an essential role in the Commission’s youth development blueprint. 

    They highlighted the significant threats that drug abuse and cultism pose to education, community advancement, and the overall mental health of young people. 

    The outreach aims to foster awareness and encourage healthier lifestyle choices among the youth in the state.

    Head of the Department, Mrs. Chinenye Ezonfade, explained that the sensitisation exercise aligned with the mandate of the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; DESOPADEC Board Chairman, Olorogun Obukowho John Nani; MD/CEO, Chief Festus Ochonogor; and the Executive Director, Social Services, Chief Favour Izoukumor. 

    She commended Comrade Esumike Harrison Nnamdi, Principal of Ebologu Grammar School, and Chief Ossai A. John, Vice Principal of St. Kizito College, for mobilising their students for the programme.

    Delivering a goodwill message, Ochonogor urged students to take the campaigns seriously and stay vigilant against the lure of drugs and cultism.

    He stated, “Drug abuse destroys potential. It weakens the mind, damages health, and cultism equally robs bright young people of the opportunity to become their best selves. But each of you carries a unique gift—your families, community, and our State are depending on you to rise and shine.”

    Facilitators Ms. Elizabeth Odisu and Ms. Honeywell Eburajolor led interactive sessions addressing peer pressure, common entry points into drug abuse, cult influence, prostitution, emotional challenges, and the ripple effects of addiction on homes and society. 

    Students were encouraged to cultivate discipline, embrace positive peer influence, and pursue purposeful living as shields against destructive behaviours.

    School authorities from both schools expressed appreciation to DESOPADEC for selecting their institutions for the sensitisation drive, describing the outreach as timely and impactful. 

    They appealed for the programme to be sustained for the benefit of younger generations.

    Several students also shared their gratitude, noting that the sessions clarified issues they had either misunderstood or never deeply considered.

    DESOPADEC reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining its school and community sensitisation efforts across its mandate areas, with the goal of nurturing healthier, more informed communities and empowering young people to make responsible life choices.

  • Niger Delta watchdog dismisses claims of ₦1tn PIA fund loss

    Niger Delta watchdog dismisses claims of ₦1tn PIA fund loss

    …warns against misleading narratives 

    An oil and gas accountability group, the Niger Delta Accountability and Resource Protection Network (NDARPN), has dismissed claims by the House of Representatives Committee on the South South Development Commission alleging that Nigeria’s failure to implement key funding provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has cost the region over ₦1 trillion.

    In a statement released on Friday in Port Harcourt, the organisation’s president, Comrade Ebikabo West, described the committee’s allegations as “sensational, misleading and potentially damaging to the investment stabilisation the PIA has steadily cultivated.”

    West maintained that the implementation of the PIA by relevant regulatory bodies, especially regarding host community development funds and environmental responsibilities, has been more effective and transparent than any mechanism that existed before the Act.

    He cautioned lawmakers against political commentary capable of “eroding investor confidence or disrupting the delicate progress achieved so far.”

    “It is simply inaccurate to suggest that the Niger Delta has been denied trillions because the funds are not being operated in the dramatic fashion being portrayed,” West stated.

    According to him, the host communities development provisions of the PIA are being “effectively and rigorously monitored”, with a regulatory system that guarantees communities direct benefits backed by strong oversight and traceability.

    He explained that the PIA introduced enforceable obligations that regulators now monitor with far stronger compliance tools than those available in the pre-PIA era. 

    West added that the narrative of “non-implementation” ignores verifiable progress recorded across host communities and in environmental management.

    “We must be careful not to weaponise environmental concerns or misrepresent regulatory processes. Such portrayals undermine the credibility of reforms and weaken the collective fight for environmental justice,” he cautioned.

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    West also stressed that Nigeria is gradually restoring the confidence of multinational oil companies that had exited the country due to prolonged regulatory uncertainty, conflicting directives and institutional pressure that previously “strangled investment.”

    “After decades of instability, Nigeria now has a predictable legislative and fiscal framework. It is only reasonable to allow the relevant agencies to execute their mandates strictly within the provisions of the PIA. Dragging them into political theatrics will jeopardise the gradual return of investor confidence,” he added.

    While acknowledging the importance of the National Assembly’s oversight function, NDARPN urged that such interventions must be evidence-driven and not based on assumptions that could fuel confusion or tension within the sector.

    “What the Niger Delta needs is consolidation, not disruption. Let the institutions empowered by the PIA continue their work without undue pressure. That is the surest path to accountability, environmental protection and sustainable development,” West advised.

  • Delta First Lady donates wheelchairs, medical supplies at special-needs outreach

    Delta First Lady donates wheelchairs, medical supplies at special-needs outreach

    …as paediatrician warns 50% of Nigerian children are micronutrient deficient

    In a major show of support for children with special needs, the wife of the Delta State Governor and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation (YMCF), Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, on Friday donated free medication, wheelchairs, and a variety of assistive and educational devices to beneficiaries.

    The donations were made during the flag-off of a free medical outreach for special-needs children and their caregivers in Ughelli, Delta Central.

    The outreach, organised by the You Matter Charity Foundation in partnership with the Delta State Ministry of Health and the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, featured medical check-ups, nutrition counselling, disability support services, and the distribution of mobility and learning tools aimed at improving access to care, independence, and overall well-being.

    Addressing parents and caregivers, Deaconess Oborevwori called for an end to the culture of hiding children with special needs, saying the practice is harmful and rooted in ignorance. She stressed that no child should be isolated or denied visibility, care, and affection.

    “It is not their fault. Every child deserves love, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive,” she said.

    She expressed deep concern over the widespread stigma surrounding Autism and other developmental conditions, noting that many children are kept away from school and medical care due to fear of judgment.

    “Autistic people are everyday people who live among us. Autism is not a spiritual problem or an illness looking for a cure. It is a condition that can be managed with understanding, compassion, and the right professional support,” she explained.

    The First Lady stated that the state-wide medical outreach is designed not only to provide care but also to raise awareness, confront misinformation, and encourage parents to seek early help.

    She urged mothers to show courage by bringing their children forward for support rather than hiding them.

    She reiterated her Foundation’s commitment to advocating for children with special needs and called on families, community groups, and institutions to work together in building a more inclusive Delta State.

    Delivering health talks during the outreach, Dr. Ifeoma Udeh, Consultant Paediatrician at Asaba Specialist Hospital, warned that about 50% of Nigerian children are micronutrient deficient, citing economic pressure, poor feeding choices, and cultural beliefs as major contributors.

    She stressed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and early nutrition.

    Similarly, Dr. Bolum-Okolie Angela, Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist, echoed the First Lady’s message and urged parents to prioritise education, healthcare, and emotional support for children living with disabilities, noting that early intervention significantly improves long-term outcomes.

    Medical personnel were on the ground to conduct examinations and offer professional guidance, as the outreach continued the Foundation’s mission of bringing hope, visibility, and essential support to children with special needs across the state.

  • Ayo Oke: NDi commends Tinubu over ambassadorial nomination

    Ayo Oke: NDi commends Tinubu over ambassadorial nomination

    The National Development Initiative (NDi) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating Ambassador Ayodele Oke as one of the candidates for ambassadorial appointments recently forwarded to the Senate.

    In a statement by its Chair on Policy and Strategic Development, Engr. Olatunji Ariyomo, FNSE, the Think Tank described Ambassador Oke as “one of the few experts in international multilateral diplomacy and strategic intelligence ever produced by Nigeria in its 65 years of nationhood.”

    According to the NDi, Ambassador Oke is “a distinguished career diplomat with over three decades of multifaceted experience in international diplomacy, foreign affairs, intelligence, and national security.”

    Ariyomo praised President Tinubu for what he called a meticulous and patriotic search, noting that “the challenges confronting Nigeria today demand profound knowledge, vast experience, patriotism, and the ability to mobilise our friends and partners across the world.”

    Responding to renewed attempts to undermine the nomination on the basis of the 2017 incident involving the EFCC and the US$43 million operational funds discovered at the Osborne Towers in Ikoyi, Lagos, the NDi said: “We are aware of the narrative being recycled. However, from a position of knowledge, we can state categorically that the promoters of such narratives are largely driven by profound ignorance.”

    The statement emphasised that Ambassador Oke was “a victim of a malicious plot” in the episode, adding: “He was targeted because of his counter-intelligence against internal sabotage and security contradictions in our war against terror. He was equally a victim of his state of origin and ethnicity – an evil we must collectively strive to purge from our national psyche.
    Time has since vindicated him, as Nigeria continues to grapple with asymmetric warfare and internal destabilisation in 2025.”

    According to the Think Tank, this context makes President Tinubu’s decision both significant and commendable. “Beyond the obvious merit of the nomination, Mr President has corrected a grievous public injustice. He has righted a fatal public wrong. President Tinubu has remedied an identity-based rift from 2017 in which statutory intelligence-finance procedures were criminalised simply to justify the removal of Oke as Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).”

    Read Also: Tinubu felicitates Olubaka of Oka-Akoko on Ihare festival, 82nd birthday

    The NDi further noted that it “was the tradition before Oke, and it remains the tradition after Oke, that the national intelligence service – Nigeria’s equivalent of the CIA – maintains cash outside conventional due-process channels. That is the nature of intelligence work. The EFCC knew this. President Buhari, who presided over the matter, also knew this. Even the NSA at the time did not contradict Oke’s assertion that the money was meant for covert operations and NIA activities. The NSA only stated that the procedure could be abused in the future. Thus, once Oke had been removed, the President merely invited both the EFCC and Oke, and all cases against Oke were quietly discontinued. Mission accomplished.”

    “Only wilful or astonishing ignorance would prevent any educated observer from seeing that the former NIA Director-General was deliberately targeted because of his seat,” the organisation concluded.

  • Okumagba commends Oborevwori’s bold, promising 2026 budget proposals

    Okumagba commends Oborevwori’s bold, promising 2026 budget proposals

    Prominent Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and former Commissioner of Finance, Olorogun Bernard Okumagba has described the 2026 budget proposals presented by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as bold, promising and designed to unlock the growth potential of Delta State.

    In a statement where he reviewed the highlights, Okumagba said he was delighted at the continued dedicated funding of infrastructure in the state, noting that under the Oborevwori administration, capital projects at 70 percent continue to take a huge chunk of budget allocation. 

    In his words: “The allocation of 70 percent of the ₦1.664 trillion Appropriation Bill to capital expenditure indicates continued commitment to fund the infrastructure developments currently underway in Delta State. The impact on economic activities in the state will evidently be huge, especially as these projects are delivered from 2026. Governor Oborevwor’s focus on delivering comprehensively on the MORE Agenda will definitely improve on the economy of the state and impact lives.

    ” Also commendable is the allocation to agriculture, a sector where the state has massive potential. The increased allocations to the economic and social sectors will undoubtedly drive more growth and development in Delta State.”

    The 2026 budget proposal of ₦1.664 trillion is an increase of ₦685 billion or 70 percent over that of 2025. Commenting on the ongoing development projects in the state, Okumagba said with the projects including the flyovers in Asaba, Agbor, Ughelli and Effurun; drainage systems in Warri–Uvwie and Asaba; and road rehabilitation across the state; “Gov Oborevwori is capturing critical needs in the state at this time.”

    Okumagba also commended the allocations to education and health. Other areas that attracted the attention of Olorogun Okumagba include the social intervention program D-Cares under which 307,600 beneficiaries and 10,000 widows will receive monthly stipends and free health insurance.

    On security, which had been a knotty issue in recent years, Okumagba commended the launch of a security trust fund and increased allocation to the sector which will provide for drone surveillance, border control, support for security services and strengthening vigilante networks. If followed through, Okumagba says, it should address the pockets of insecurity that need to be taken care of.

    Okumagba urged Gov Oborevwori to stay the course which he has charted since his election in 2023, noting that “In two years the impact of the administration is unfolding brightly.” He commended the governor’s vision to “build the Delta State of our dreams where no one is left behind.”

  • Calabar launches massive NDDC- led campaign against drug abuse among youths

    Calabar launches massive NDDC- led campaign against drug abuse among youths

    In a determined effort to stem the tide of drug and substance abuse among students and youths in Calabar, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in strategic partnership with Devongnosis Education Ltd, has intensified its commitment by organizing a high-impact sensitization rally across Calabar state. 

    This initiative is in commemoration with the International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, underscoring the urgency and global significance of the fight against substance abuse.

    The comprehensive campaign aims not only to raise awareness but also to instill lasting behavioral change and resilience among young people who remain vulnerable to the pervasive influence of drugs. 

    The rally, themed; “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Chain, Say No to Drug Abuse,” brought together stakeholders from across the community, including the NDDC Calabar state office led by the state Director, Chief Daniel Ajunwa PhD, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), NYSC members, the Police amongst others.

    The march covered key strategic locations, including Mary Slessor Road, Calabar Technical College, General Hospital, and the University of Calabar, ensuring that the message reached a broad and diverse audience. Participants actively engaged in distributing educational materials, including colorful banners, informative flyers, T-shirts, and caps, all designed to reinforce the campaign’s anti-drug message.

    Beyond the rally, the campaign incorporated vital health talks and counseling sessions aimed at equipping students with factual knowledge and practical tools to resist peer pressure and avoid drug experimentation. Several secondary schools, including Government Secondary School State Housing, West African People’s Institute (WAPI), Government Girls Secondary School Big-Qua, Government Secondary School Barrack Road, and Government Secondary School Akim-IBB way, among others, embraced the campaign, demonstrating a united front against substance abuse.

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    The event garnered robust participation from students, NDDC staff, youth corps members, security agencies, and community leaders, highlighting the collective responsibility and collaborative spirit needed to address this societal menace. 

    The Director Calabar state office, Chief Daniel Ajunwa, along with coordinators from Devongnosis Education Ltd, addressed the audience with compelling insights into the dangers of drug abuse, emphasizing its detrimental effects on mental health, academic achievement, and overall well-being.

    “It is deeply alarming to witness the rising cases of substance abuse among adolescents. This not only undermines their mental and physical health but also jeopardizes their academic futures and societal contributions,” the speakers cautioned. 

    They strongly advocated for early prevention education as a frontline defense, urging students to embrace drug-free lifestyles and become champions of positive change in their communities.

    The speakers further underscored that drug abuse is not merely an individual problem but a wider social challenge fueled by a network ranging from cultivators to traffickers, hence the necessity for a comprehensive, community-wide response. They encouraged vigilance, awareness of drug abuse indicators, and a collective commitment to breaking the cycle.

    School representatives expressed deep appreciation to the NDDC and Devongnosis Education Ltd for spearheading such a transformative initiative. They lauded the campaign’s role in empowering young people to make informed decisions and resist negative peer influences.

    This landmark event embodies a significant stride towards fostering sustained community engagement, enhancing drug prevention education, and ultimately promoting a healthier, drug-free generation. 

    The partnership between the NDDC and Devongnosis Education Ltd has set a powerful example of how strategic collaboration can empower youths with the knowledge and resilience they need to flourish without reliance on harmful substances.

    Moving forward, this campaign lays the groundwork for ongoing initiatives aimed at nurturing a safer, stronger, and more enlightened youth populace across Calabar and beyond, demonstrating a resolute stand against the scourge of drug abuse in the Niger Delta region.

  • Sobotie, Ohwofa, Delta lawmakers attend surprise 68th birthday party for Emerhor

    Sobotie, Ohwofa, Delta lawmakers attend surprise 68th birthday party for Emerhor

    Dignitaries including the Delta chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Elder Omeni Sobotie; renowned businessman and former President of Urhobo Social Club, Lagos, Olorogun Simeon Ohwofa; and the members representing Ughelli North Constituency 1 & 11 at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Spencer Ohwofa and Hon. Matthew Omonade on Tuesday paid separate surprise birthday visits to boardroom tactician and founding leader of the Delta APC, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor.

    Also at Emerhor’s country home in Evwreni town to felicitate with him were former Delta Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Andrew Orugbo; Bomadi Council Chairman, Hon. Dagidi Rawlings Andaye; APC Chieftain, Elder Donatus Uba; Uvwie APC chieftain, Chief  Eric Egere; Hon. Monday Oyeghe, Mudiaga  Okorefe, Marcus Uba and others.

    Emerhor, a renowned businessman and the first politician to contest an election on the APC platform in Nigeria, during the 2013 Delta Central senatorial by-election, months after the party’s formation, clocked 68 on Tuesday.

    Emerhor Political Sons (EPS) also threw a surprise birthday party at the home of the celebrant to celebrate the 2015 governorship candidate of APC in Delta.

    Taking turns to speak at their visits, Sobotie, described Emerhor as a pride of the state for his achievements in the business community and his sacrifice in politics.

    Sobotie prayed for good health and a long life for Olorogun Emerhor, noting that the Delta APC founding leader deserves to be celebrated by all.

    Also speaking, the member representing Ughelli North Constituency 2, Hon. Omonade, praised Olorogun Emerhor for his commitment to the growth and development of APC in the state.

    Omonade said, “Our daddy (Emerhor) is someone who has inspired hope, commitment, love, and unwavering commitment to service. I came here today not because I have nothing to do. We took it as a duty to come and celebrate with our leader. Individually and collectively, he has impacted our lives.

    “I remember when I contested in 2023, he did something remarkable. People did not know he supported me with millions of naira, and I was shocked that people who were close to him were not even aware. That shows that he is someone who does good without announcing it. I am very grateful.

    “I pray for a long life and prosperity. We pray that in 10 and 20 years from now we will still come here to celebrate him.”

    In the same vein, the member representing Ughelli North Constituency 1, Mr Spencer Ohwofa, saluted the celebrant for his forthrightness and doggedness that resulted in the APC becoming the ruling party in the state.

    Ohwofa commended Emerhor for his selfless service to APC and humanity, stressing that he deserves all the accolades for the successes the party has recorded in the state.

    “The history of APC cannot be completely written without your name. You have been a father to all. Even when we go astray, you are always ready to receive us. It shows how kindhearted you are to us your children. You’re a good leader and father.

    “Delta State is now an APC state. If not for people like you, it would have been a different story, but God used you, and He will continue to use you to ensure that the development you yearn for in Delta State comes to pass. The Renewed Hope for More Agenda is already manifesting in Delta State”, Ohwofa noted.

    In his remark, Delta APC chieftain, Chief Okareme Maikpobi, called on Olorogun Emerhor to contest the Delta Central senatorial seat in the forthcoming 2027 election, noting that it is time to reward his selfless sacrifice to the party.

    Other speakers at the birthday party, including various APC pressure groups, especially Emerhor Political Sons and Emerhor Political Women Vanguard, also reechoed the call for Emerhor to seek an elective position to give the state quality representation.

    Olorogun Emerhor told his party chieftains of his desire to consider the request to contest the 2027 Delta Central Senate seat.

    He commended his political family and APC leaders for the surprise birthday in his honour, pledging to continue the development of APC and Delta State.

  • Sharta lauds Gov. Oborevwori, says he saw tomorrow

    Sharta lauds Gov. Oborevwori, says he saw tomorrow

    Hon. Benjamin Sharta, aka DJ Ben, the Executive Assistant on Community Development to Delta Governor of Delta State, has praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the visionary leader who anticipated the future.

    This commendation follows the remarkable developmental strides the governor has made in the state, which have transformed the lives of its citizens.

    In a chat with newsmen during a public function in Udu, Hon. Sharta articulated his admiration for Governor Oborevwori’s foresight. He said, “Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori is the man who saw tomorrow.

    He envisioned a future of peace, stability, equity, and unity for all Deltans long before many others even considered these possibilities. His commitment to these ideals was evident, though it was met with skepticism and criticism from various quarters.”

    He added: “Governor Oborevwori bravely made decisions that, at the time, felt controversial to some. Yet, he understood that true leadership requires courage and an unwavering belief in the potential for a better tomorrow. Those who labeled him as an opportunist were mistaken. His actions were driven by a profound sense of duty and a deep understanding of the needs of his people.”

    Sharta further elaborated on the implications of the governor’s strategic choices, stating, “Today, we find ourselves in a place of comfort and stability, wondering how different things could have been had these bold decisions not been made. Governor Oborevwori’s leadership reflects the adage that ‘God works in mysterious ways.’ He has indeed been a vessel of divine purpose, leading with wisdom to actualize a brighter future for all Deltans.”

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    The transformation in Delta State under Governor Oborevwori’s tenure is palpable. He has fostered an environment devoid of political strife and opposition, allowing citizens to coexist peacefully, regardless of past rivalries.

    Hon. Sharta emphasized the significance of this cultural shift: “We share laughter and camaraderie with former political opponents today, this unity is a testament to the governor’s courageous initiatives.”

    Moreover, the development of Delta State has not only been socio-political but also economic. Hon. Sharta highlighted that the state is now recognized for its political relevance and engagement on a broader scale. .

    “Our achievements in governance have elevated Delta State in the eyes of our neighbors and the nation. All this progress is a direct result of Governor Oborevwori’s foresight and resilience.” he added.

    Sharta further expressed hope and excitement for the future. “April 23rd 2025, will be remembered as a milestone in our journey towards a united and prosperous Delta State. Indeed, there is a man who saw tomorrow, and we are grateful for his visionary leadership.”

  • When jealousy fuels attacks against Hon. Ibori-Suenu

    When jealousy fuels attacks against Hon. Ibori-Suenu

    • By Gabriel Choba 

    The recent vitriolic attacks and campaign of calumny against Hon. (Mrs.) Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the member representing the Ethiope Federal Constituency reveals a deeper issue rooted in jealousy and fear of her escalating profile. 

    The unfounded claims of poor representation starkly contrast with the tremendous contributions Ibori-Suenu has made to her community and the nation at large.

    The misguided chorus of dissent from certain quarters of Ethiope East leadership, claiming that Ibori-Suenu is underperforming, stems not from any factual basis but from envy toward a trailblazing Niger Delta Amazon who has chosen to serve her people with dedication and purpose. It is not only unfair but also unbecoming of leaders to condemn her without just cause, especially when we consider what she has accomplished.

    Since entering the House of Representatives, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to empowerment, grassroots engagement, and people-centric initiatives. 

    Her record speaks for itself: diverse programs have positively impacted the lives of ordinary citizens in ways that many of her critics, during their time in office, could only dream of achieving. 

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    Her legislative efforts, including the Nigerian Customs Training College, Oghara (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2316) and the Nigerian Paramedic College, Isiokolo (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2317), are on the verge of fruition, significantly enhancing the educational infrastructure in the constituency. 

    This growth can only be viewed as a beacon of hope as she addresses pressing issues such as kidnapping and the clashes between herders and farmers.

    Moreover, the contrast becomes even more striking when we consider that many leaders now undermining Ibori-Suenu were once beneficiaries of Chief James Ibori’s mentorship at times when their own contributions were not proven. It is irony steeped in betrayal that those who rose to prominence through guidance would deny the same support to a capable and deserving daughter of the land.

    Substantial achievements of Ibori-Suenu, including youth and women empowerment programs, the installation of streetlights, and the initiation of road construction projects in Igun, have reiterated her commitment to the development of Ethiope Federal Constituency, a region that hasn’t experienced this scale of progress since its establishment. 

    The Ethiope Federal Constituency Forum has reportedly held frequent meetings focused largely on discussing Ibori-Suenu’s impact, including conversations around a failed recall attempt against her. Their destabilizing efforts against the APC represent a misguided attempt to undermine her contributions.

    Legislative responsibilities in today’s Green Chamber transcend mere visibility and photo opportunities; they hinge on delivering tangible benefits to constituents in the form of job creation, federal appointments, and project empowerment. 

    As Hon. Ibori-Suenu continues to make strides in her mission, it should serve as a wake-up call to the Ethiope Federal Constituency Forum that her (Ibori-Suenu) commitment remains unwavering despite their criticisms. 

    Her tenacity and determination to foster transformation in her constituency ought to stir reflection rather than resentment in those who fear her influence.

    Indeed, it is evident that her critics are suffering from “sleepless nights,” and as she works to innovate and uplift her constituency, the narrative is one of progress and hope, not envy and sabotage.

  • Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda driving development and peace in Niger Delta, says Otuaro

    Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda driving development and peace in Niger Delta, says Otuaro

    The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has said that President Bola Tinubu is strategically addressing development, economic growth, and sustainable peace in the Niger Delta.

    Otuaro made the remarks on Saturday during a town hall meeting with PAP stakeholders and Niger Deltans living in Lagos, hosted by prominent Niger Delta activist and founder of the Ijaw Monitoring Group, Chief Joseph Eva.

    Notable attendees included Prince Tonye Harry, Chairman of Ijaw National Congress, Lagos chapter; Prof. Dauphin Moro; Titus Posibi; Chief Amarian Benedicta; Chief Ogbogbo; Evangelist Agboro; Chief Emmanuel Fiawe; Robert Fiawe; Elder Regent Youmor; Mrs. RoseMary Aluko; and Owen Naphatin, Chairman of the IYC, Lagos chapter.

    In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Igoniko Oduma, Otuaro said President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding results in the Niger Delta, particularly in addressing development challenges, security, and sustainable peace.

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    He added that the President had restored stability in the region while fulfilling his campaign promises on human capacity development and infrastructural projects for the Niger Delta.

    Otuaro insisted that the solid support of the President and the National Security Adviser for the PAP was responsible for the expansion of the scholarship scheme and other milestone achievements the programme recorded in vocational training, peacebuilding, and stakeholder engagement.

    He told the stakeholders that while in-country scholarship deployment was 3800 in the 2024/2025 academic year, the figure increased to 3900 in 2025/2026, as well as foreign scholarships, which he said were about 200.

    He assured them that the PAP under his leadership would continue to do its best to ensure that more indigent youths were provided access to higher educational attainments with the requisite skills and knowledge for self-reliance and nation building.

    The PAP boss stressed that human resource development was pivotal to the socio-economic advancement and development of the region’s people as well as sustainable peace and security.

    While thanking the President for not holding back support for the PAP, he reassured the stakeholders that Tinubu would do much more for the region after his re-election in 2027, and urged them to reciprocate his large-heartedness.

    Otuaro further said, “One of the things you must know about His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is that he is very strategic and systematic in his approach to resolving issues of development, socio-economic growth, security, and sustainable peace in our region- the Niger Delta.

    “You all can see how Mr President’s deliberate approach is producing positive results in our region. There is no doubt that Mr President’s strategy is working for the Niger Delta.

    “This applies to the huge support that he has been giving to the Presidential Amnesty Programme under my leadership, for which we are very grateful.

    “Because of His Excellency’s massive backing, we have been able to expand the programme’s scholarship scheme, and it is our strong hope that more students from indigent backgrounds from impacted communities will benefit from the initiative. We will also continue to strengthen our policy of inclusivity.

    “I want to, again, thank His Excellency for finding me worthy of appointment; to take up the baton of leadership at the PAP with the help of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who has been very supportive of our initiatives since I assumed office.

    “I urge you and all the people of the Niger Delta to continue to support the administration of Mr President because we are confident that, judging from the many good things he is doing in our region, he will do even more for us after his reelection in 2027.”

    In his remarks, the host, Chief Joseph Eva, expressed confidence in the PAP Administrator’s leadership ability and commended him for the remarkable achievements the agency has recorded under him.

    “I am not surprised because I have known Dr Dennis Otuaro very closely for many years, and the values he stands for. He is a very focused person.

    “Indeed, Dr Otuaro has achieved a lot in human capital development, vocational skills, and the peacebuilding process for our region. We have confidence in his leadership, vision, and dedication to regional development,” Eva said.

    The high point of the town hall meeting was the conferment of the ‘Best Iconic Administrator Award’ on Otuaro by the stakeholders.