The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • CP Erivwode’s promotion pride to Urhobo Nation -Dafinone

    CP Erivwode’s promotion pride to Urhobo Nation -Dafinone

    SENATOR Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated Mr. Victor Erivwode on his recent promotion to the rank of Commissioner of Police (CP) in the Nigeria Police Force, describing it as a “well-deserved elevation” and a source of immense pride for the Urhobo nation.

    In a statement on Tuesday, the Senator lauded Erivwode’s rise through the ranks, attributing the achievement to his “unwavering dedication, professionalism, and exemplary service to the country.”

    According to him:  “This significant promotion is a testament to CP Erivwode’s steadfast commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and upholding the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force. His track record speaks volumes.”

    The lawmaker noted that Erivwode’s tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Rivers State had particularly showcased his leadership and investigative capacity, adding that he played a “crucial role in tackling complex criminal cases and fostering a safer environment for residents.”

    He continued: “This promotion is not only a personal achievement for CP Erivwode but also a source of immense pride for the entire Urhobo nation. It serves as an inspiration to countless young individuals within our community. His rise is a shining example of meritocracy at its best.”

    Dafinone expressed confidence that CP Erivwode will bring his wealth of experience and integrity to bear in his new role, stressing that his elevation comes at a time when Nigeria’s security architecture requires tested and capable hands.

    “I have no doubt that CP Victor Erivwode will continue to bring strong leadership and commitment to the job. The Urhobo people are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and look forward to your continued contributions to national development,” Dafinone stated.

    The Senator concluded by wishing the new Police Commissioner a successful tenure. “I wish you an impactful and successful tenure in your new capacity, trusting that you will continue to serve the nation with the same zeal and commitment that have defined your career thus far.”

    CP Erivwode’s promotion is seen by many within Delta and beyond as a well-earned recognition of service and a boost to the image of the Urhobo ethnic nationality within national institutions.

  • From feeding bottle to self-reliance: Otu’s strategic divestment from carnival Calabar

    From feeding bottle to self-reliance: Otu’s strategic divestment from carnival Calabar

    • By Linus Obogo

      This has been long in coming and in fact, long overdue- bring the 20-years of feeding bottle approach to an end and adopt a more sustainable, self-reliant strategic divestment policy to the management of the biggest street event on the continent.

      But in a moment that shall shimmer through the annals of Cross River’s cultural renaissance, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has once again etched his name in gold as a leader not only attuned to the rhythm of his people’s desires but also courageously anchored in the winds of transformational governance. With sublime grace and piercing foresight, Governor Otu, in the hallowed hall of the state executive council chamber, before the conclave of his 32-member council, declared that the 2025 edition of the iconic Christmas Festival — lyrically themed “Traces of Time” — shall be the last to receive full sponsorship from the state. Thus, like a river flowing into an ocean of new possibilities, the carnival is now being released from the gentle grip of government into the wider embrace of strategic partnership and inspired enterprise.

      For over two decades, the Christmas Festival and Carnival Calabar have been the shimmering soul of Cross River — a euphoric expression of its plural cultures, a celestial mingling of sound, spectacle, and story. But while the streets throbbed with joy and pageantry, the machinery behind the scenes was oiled, year after year, by substantial state funds. In pivoting from this model, Governor Otu is not drawing a curtain, but lifting a veil — unveiling a future where culture is not merely performed but owned, invested in, and allowed to bloom into a self-sustaining heritage economy.

      This move is no mere fiscal maneuver. It is a philosophical awakening. It reveals a governor thinking far beyond his time, one who understands that the truest gifts a leader can bestow are not endless provisions, but enabling environments; not dependency, but dignity. To wean the carnival off public subvention is to invite the spirit of shared responsibility — where every business, every brand, every culture-bearer, and indeed every citizen, becomes a custodian of this glowing treasure.

      Indeed, this decision gleams with poetic symmetry. Just as “Traces of Time” evokes the footprints of history and the call of posterity, so too does Governor Otu’s divestment signal the passing of the torch — from government to the people, from administration to collaboration, from obligation to opportunity. It is a declaration that our cultural expressions must now be buttressed by creative entrepreneurship, and that the economic soul of tourism must be awakened not by endless government spending, but by the alchemy of innovation, patronage, and purpose.

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      It takes extraordinary wisdom to know when to let go, and even greater courage to do so with elegance and poise. Governor Otu, in his signature calm and golden style, has shown both. He is not merely tightening the fiscal belt; he is expanding the spiritual waistline of our cultural ecosystem. In this bold gesture, he has proclaimed: let those who benefit, invest; let those who dance, also build the stage; let those who cheer, also help bear the cost. This is the true meaning of participatory culture — where the people do not wait for culture to be served, but become co-chefs in the banquet of heritage.

      And what a banquet it will be. Freed from the constraints of bureaucratic budgeting, Carnival Calabar now has the chance to soar — to become not just Africa’s biggest street party, but its most innovative cultural platform. Corporate Nigeria, the Diaspora, multinationals, artists, artisans, dreamers and doers — all are summoned to the table. Governor Otu is in essence telling the world: Cross River is no longer offering culture as consumption, but as capital.

      This profound policy shift also weaves seamlessly into the broader tapestry of Governor Otu’s developmental vision — a People First agenda that reimagines tourism not as seasonal delight, but as year-round economic strategy. It reflects his administration’s commitment to reducing the weight of recurrent expenditures while reengineering government as an enabler of enterprise. Here is a leader who sees in every masquerade not just beauty, but business; in every cultural troupe not just talent, but trade.

      As the final state-sponsored edition of the Christmas Festival approaches, the air in Calabar is already pregnant with nostalgia and anticipation. Yet beneath the pageantry, a powerful idea is taking root — that culture is not a burden to be carried, but a bridge to be built. Governor Bassey Edet Otu has not just announced a change in policy; he has lit a fire in the soul of a people, bidding them to rise, to own, and to inherit the legacy of the carnival. In this act of visionary release, he has written a new verse in the poetry of leadership — and history, surely, shall sing his praise.

      • Obogo is Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
    • Vacate your seats now, Etanabene admonishes decamped lawmakers

      Vacate your seats now, Etanabene admonishes decamped lawmakers

      A lawmaker representing Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie constituency in the House of Representatives, under the Labour Party (LP), Hon. Benedict Etanabene, has urged members who recently decamped to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to respect the constitution they swore to uphold by vacating their seats in accordance with the provisions of the law.

      Speaking on a number of issues bordering on the future of the Labour Party, national politics and governance among others during a media parley in Warri, yesterday, the lawmaker described the continued occupation of seats by Senators and Representatives who had decamped to other parties as gross violations of the constitution they swore to uphold.

      While noting that the constitution was very clear on the issue of decamping to other political parties, as there were specific conditions and laid down rules that must be followed before any lawmaker can be excused, he however lamented that his colleagues fragrantly violated those provisions for their selfish interest to return to their seats at all cost.

      According to him: “Although, the constitution provides for freedom of Association, it defines the processes it must take if one is elected, through the provisions of the electoral Act. While no clear demand is made for anyone elected into any Executive position, it forbids same, where such is a legislator.

      “The provisions of the electrical act made it compulsory for any legislator who decamps, to vacant the office he or she is elected to occupy unless where the party that he or she represent have crisis as to not been able to operate in its registered head office, and where there is no legally recognized officers or leadership of such Political Party”. 

      He added: “In the absence of these conditions the decampee legislator shall’ vacate the seat. It does not require any court pronouncement or the speaker’s action of declaring vacant such seat. It is automatically activated”

      “The recent cross-carpeting of politicians from one Party to the other, has reduced the standard of credibility expected of such highly placed individuals in the society. It is morally and lawfully not good. Our democracy is in decline”.

      On separation of powers he argued: “In Nigeria, once any person is elected as President, such person immediately begins the process to annex the functions and powers of other organs of Government. They desire to collapse all organs of government into one executive controlled Institution”.

      “I do not believe that presidents in Nigeria know the full benefit of separation of power. A practical separation of power brings growth to the nation”.

      “Therefore, a usurpation of the functions of the other organs of government, retards development and growth”, he stated.

      “As blacks, we are certainly not psychological or mentally prepared for this kind of capitalist form of democracy. High time, we begin to design the kind of democracy that will work for our peculiarities”.

      Speaking further, Etanabene noted that the legislature happens to be one of the organs of government under the separation of power theory but that today in Nigeria, we cannot proud ourselves to be practicing an independent legislative arm of government.

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      The President is in charge of the National Assembly, while the Governors are similarly controlling the various state Houses of Assembly. So, where is the separation of power, which is the recipe for growth in any nation?

      “Every President and Governor wants to have the speaker and leadership of their choice. No wonder, Nigerians would without hesitations at any given time, address the Assembles as Rubber Stamp. This is not good for democracy. 

      “Even where there are opposition parties, these leaders are still interested in coercing the opposition parties to field cooperating minority leaders. 

      “This is a serious problem in Nigeria, certainly no separation of powers in governance.”

    • A golden dawn for tourism: Gov Otu’s N18bn vision of splendour, soul, sustainable glory

      A golden dawn for tourism: Gov Otu’s N18bn vision of splendour, soul, sustainable glory

      By Linus Obogo 

      The much awaited rebirth in the tourism sector in Cross River could not have found a more resonant expression as Governor Bassey Edet Otu, in a flourish of visionary leadership and statesmanlike poise, last week unfurled a breathtaking new chapter in the state’s story. It is indeed, a tale delicately embroidered with promise, prosperity, and purpose. 

      With the approval of a staggering N18 billion for the rehabilitation and rejuvenation of the state’s most cherished tourism treasures, the Governor has lit the torch of renaissance across the hills and waterscapes of a once-slumbering paradise. This bold intervention is not merely financial—it is philosophical. It is a declaration of intent, a clarion call to awaken the spirit of heritage and hospitality that defines the Cross River soul.

      At the heart of this monumental reawakening lies the rebirth of legendary tourism assets: the iconic Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, the soul-soothing Marina Resort, the breathtaking Obudu Mountain Resort, and the cascading majesty of Kwa Falls. Long silent and subdued by time and neglect, these hallowed grounds are being summoned back to life in a symphony of steel, stone, and sunlight. The “Season of Sweetness,” Governor Otu’s poetic signature for this era, now finds its most evocative expression in this renaissance of destination and identity—a celebration of memory, magnificence, and the magic that once made Cross River the beating heart of Nigeria’s tourism dream.

      More than just a restoration of bricks and timber, this masterstroke includes the inspired remodeling of Amber Tinapa Hotel and Studio Tinapa—structures that once stood as shimmering testaments to ambition but now await renewal under the golden gaze of purposeful governance. In a flourish of architectural intent, the blueprint also includes the construction of a modern pier harbor—an ode to the aquatic grace of Calabar’s riverfront, and a bold invitation to the world to rediscover the charm of Cross River by boat, breeze, and breathtaking vistas.

      But what is a destination without a stage? With majestic foresight, Governor Otu has unveiled the Axari Towers project, a towering symbol of aspiration to serve as the grand vestibule for visitors during the 20th anniversary of the world-acclaimed Calabar Carnival in December 2025. As this edifice rises into the tropical skyline, it will do more than lodge weary travelers; it will cradle the dreams of a state reborn in confidence. It shall echo with the laughter of cultures colliding joyfully, of pageantry in its purest form, and of a hospitality industry reaching ever skyward.

      Yet, beyond the physical grandeur lies the deeper pulse of the governor’s intention—to return tourism to the hands and hearts of the people. The proposed “Experience Calabar” campaign, coupled with the establishment of a Heritage Market, will not only rekindle cultural memory but carve out sacred spaces for artisans, drummers, weavers, dancers, storytellers, and custodians of our collective identity. It is a celebration of Cross River’s soul—a soul as ancient as the hills of Obudu and as fluid as the tides that kiss Marina’s shores.

      This sweeping renaissance will also carry with it a transformation of tourism’s underbelly—transportation, accommodation, and infrastructure—all reimagined with the elegance of vision and the efficiency of modernity. No longer shall tourists arrive to faded grandeur and weary systems. Instead, they shall be embraced by a state humming with readiness and radiance, guided by a governor who understands that true development is not just measured in cement and columns, but in the experience it offers and the dignity it restores.

      As this dream materialises, the cascading effects shall reach every corner of the state. Jobs will bloom where weeds once grew; investments will trickle into communities like the gentle rains of April; and every child who dances in the Carnival will know they are part of something sacred, something shared, something sublime. This is not mere governance—it is an art form. It is stewardship with soul. It is legacy with light.

      In approving this N18 billion vision, Governor Bassey Otu has not only redeemed once-glorious monuments but has etched his name in the eternal scroll of Cross River’s most illustrious dreamers. He has turned nostalgia into strategy, and memory into momentum. With the stroke of this bold initiative, he has flung wide the doors of the future—where Cross River once again becomes not just a place on the map, but a destination of the heart.

      Obogo is Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media And Publicity to Governor Bassey Edet Otu — linusobogo@gmail.com

    • Otuaro performing well, making progress at PAP – Okporoko

      Otuaro performing well, making progress at PAP – Okporoko

      Executive Assistant, Security Matters To Delta Governor,  Amb. Chief Godwin Okporoko, has commended the laudable  performance and achievements being made by the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro.

      Okporoko, speaking to Journalists on Saturday in Warri, Delta State, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Otuaro, adding that Otuaro has sanitised the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

       According to him: “ Personally, I have been paying attention to happenings in the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and I can say that President Tinubu appointed the right man ( Dennis Otuaro) as the Administrator of Presidential Amnesty Programme. Immediately he was appointed, his first assignment was the engagement of Amnesty stakeholders to brainstorm on how to take the programme to the next level”

      Okporoko, a prominent Urhobo leader, said: “ During the engagements, the Amnesty stakeholders had the opportunity to put forward their complaints, challenges and provided suggestions. However,  Dennis Otuaro restored their hope and confidence and promised to address all issues raised, that is how to know a true leader

       ” The information I have indicated that Otuaro has resolved the issue of delayed payments of stipends to beneficiaries, and  restored excluded beneficiaries and also paying  Contractors and vendors timely. 

      ” Dennis Otuaro instilled transparency in the financial management, prompt payment of Scholarship funds for beneficiaries to various  Tertiary Institutions. He is also distributing learning materials to beneficiaries. 

      “ The Administrator has succeeded in ensuring that Amnesty beneficiaries in Niger Delta keyed into the “ Renewed Hope” agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is why there is peace in the Niger Delta region.”

      Okporoko, also the  President General, Owahwa Sub-Clan, OML34, Ughievwen Kingdom, Ughelli South LGA, Delta State,  thanked Otuaro for mobilizing the Amnesty beneficiaries and stakeholders in Niger Delta for the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.

      He urged President Tinubu and National Security Adviser NSA to continue giving the necessary support to Otuaro for showing  capacity and competence in managing the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

      “ I can also confirm that Dr. Dennis Otuaro is collaborating and working closely with security agencies, traditional rulers, government institutions, and stakeholders in ensuring that the prevailing peace and security in Niger Delta is sustained “

    • 2027: Artisans back Tinubu, Oborevwori for second term

      2027: Artisans back Tinubu, Oborevwori for second term

      …as Delta governor pledges more support for artisans

      More than 10,000 registered members of the Informal Sector in Delta State have declared their support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in 2027.

      The endorsement came from a coalition of various trade groups, including the market women association, hairdressers, tilers, butchers, aluminium roofers, national masons, caterers, DJs, Event Planners, motor technicians, bricklayers, shoemakers, welders, solar installers, and several others across the informal economy.

      Speaking on behalf of the groups, the chairman, Chief Ifeanyi Abanom, expressed their unwavering support for the continuation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda beyond 2027.

      He noted that the decision to endorse both leaders stemmed from their commitment to policies and programmes that promote economic empowerment and grassroots development.

      He said, “We use the Artisans Day Celebration to endorse President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for 2027.”

      The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on the occasion, said that artisans are the heartbeat of communities and the fulcrum of Nigeria’s economic future.

      According to the Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, “artisans are not just service providers, they are the creators, innovators and problem solvers.

      The Governor stated: “Artisans represent the heartbeat of our communities and the fulcrum of our economic future. Today is more than a ceremonial occasion; it is a bold affirmation of our collective resolve to recognise, empower and elevate the informal sector, which remains the silent engine of our state’s economic development.

      “This Artisanship Day Celebration, coupled with the inauguration of twenty-five local government coordinators and thirty-six state trade unions, is a major milestone in the quest to organise, strengthen and professionalise our artisans.

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      “From tailors and welders to barbers, hairdressers, mechanics and carpenters, among others, you are the hands that build our homes, fix our tools, style our appearances and craft the things we use every day.

      “Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, my administration has placed artisanship at the very heart of our M.O.R.E. Agenda; we understand that empowering artisans is not just about supporting individual livelihoods, it is about nurturing a productive economy rooted in local talent and enterprise.”

      Governor Oborevwori listed some ways that his administration had advanced artisanship to include revitalisation of vocational training programmes, provision of new platforms for artisans to access modern skills, microfinance and market opportunities, asserting, “Thousands of artisans are now equipped to grow from small-scale operators to full-fledged business owners.

      “To the newly inaugurated Local Government Coordinators and Trade Union Leaders, you have been chosen to lead, represent and inspire.

      “Yours is a critical responsibility, to serve as the vital link between government and artisans, ensuring that policies, programmes and resources reach every community and workshop.

      “I charge you to build solidarity across trades to promote innovation, mentorship and collaboration; facilitate training programmes to keep our artisans globally competitive.”

      Oborevwori noted that his administration would continue to support artisans with enabling policies, targeted funding and capacity-building programmes, adding that the vision is to turn the informal sector into a thriving, well-structured economic power base.

      He called on Deltans to patronise the local artisans, support their businesses and celebrate their work to build a value chain that retains wealth within the communities.

      The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, emphasised the importance of artisans to the economy of the nation.

      Okowa urged the government to continue to support artisans in the state, stating, “Empowerment that is through a structured process will get to the right people. Encouraging the artisan will do us a lot better.”

    • Edo: Inegbeniki congratulates Okpebolo on Supreme Court verdict

      Edo: Inegbeniki congratulates Okpebolo on Supreme Court verdict

      Prominent politician, High Chief Francis Inegbeniki, Uzoya of Ezan Land, Edo Central Senatorial District, has congratulated Governor Monday Okpebolo on the triumphant victory at the Supreme Court on Thursday, 10th July 2025.

      Inegbeniki, in a congratulatory message he personally signed on Friday, said the  affirmation of Okpebolo’s rightful position as Governor by the highest court in the land stands as a powerful testament to the  resilience, unwavering determination, and the overwhelming support he enjoys from the people of Edo State. 

      “Since the 21st of September 2024, when the good people of Edo cast their votes in your favour, the justice system has consistently recognised your victory—beginning with the Electoral Tribunal’s declaration, through to the Court of Appeal’s reaffirmation, and culminating in the Supreme Court’s ultimate confirmation”

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      He said: “ It is now imperative that we, as citizens and stakeholders of Edo State, set aside our differences and unite behind your leadership. Together, we should cooperate fully to ensure the successful delivery of the dividends of democracy to every corner of our beloved state. I implore all good people of Edo State to continue their unwavering support for your administration, recognising that you are Governor to all citizens irrespective of political persuasion”

       Inegbeniki also appealed to Governor Okpebolo to extend an olive branch to all citizens of Edo State, regardless of their political affiliations, and earnestly consider forming a unity government that promotes inclusiveness and fosters collaboration for the greater good of Edo State.

      “ I take this opportunity to give thanks to Almighty God for this electoral victory. It brings me immense pride to witness an Esan man,  ascend to govern Edo State. I also express my special appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; and His Excellency, Chief Barrister Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, for their invaluable support to your administration.”

      “ My gratitude further extends in a very special manner to our esteemed leader, Engr Lee Ikpea, the APC Deputy State Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh, and Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, whose steadfast support has been critical to this victory. The Esan people remain forever grateful to Emperor Jaret Tenebe, whose legacy endures in our hearts”

      According to him:“ Finally, I wish to express my profound appreciation to the good and peace-loving people of Edo State. Rest assured that Governor Monday Okpebolo is deeply committed and fully prepared to work tirelessly for the progress and development of Edo State”

      He pledged his support and wishing the Governor  success on the noble task of advancing the prosperity of Edo State.

    • APC deputy spokesperson hails Okpebholo over Supreme Court victory 

      APC deputy spokesperson hails Okpebholo over Supreme Court victory 

      Deputy national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Durosinmi Meseko, has congratulated Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, following the Supreme Court’s affirmation of his victory in the September 2024 governorship election.

      In a statement issued on Wednesday, Meseko lauded the apex court’s ruling, which he said brings final closure to all legal disputes surrounding the election. 

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      He expressed confidence in Governor Okpebholo’s capacity to lead the state and deliver meaningful development.

      He emphasized the need for unity and stability in Edo State, urging all stakeholders to work together with the governor to realize the aspirations of the people.

      Meseko also offered prayers for the governor, saying: “We pray that God Almighty keeps Governor Okpebholo in good health and guides him as he is fully focused on taking Edo State to prosperity.”

    • Ijaw in US honours Ogbuku as Champion of Economic Empowerment

      Ijaw in US honours Ogbuku as Champion of Economic Empowerment

      The Ijaw National Congress of the Americas (INC-A) has bestowed an award of excellence on the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, recognizing him as the Champion of Economic Empowerment.

      The INC-A presented the award to Ogbuku in Houston, Texas, USA, as part of its three-day second Ijaw Global Convention with a theme: “Effective Leadership in Ijaw Nation”.

       A former President Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, who received the award on behalf of Ogbuku, said the NDDC Boss was particularly honoured for his strides in entrepreneurship and local economic growth.

      Eradiri said the award was a testament to Ogbuku’s exceptional leadership style and his commitment to the deployment of the NDDC resources in actualising the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the region.

      He said the award would motivate Ogbuku to keep rolling out people-oriented projects and empowerment programmes designed to enhance the economy of the region and lift many people out of poverty.

      “The NDDC Managing Director will also seek opportunities to collaborate with international organisations including the Ijaws in diaspora to ensure the growth and development of the Niger Delta region”, he said.

      He said the Mayor of Houston, John Whitmire, used the occasion to proclaim June 5 every year as the Ijaw Convention Day.

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      He said the Mayor described the Ijaw people living in the US as “a vibrant and growing segment of the Nigerian-American diaspora, contributing significantly to business, education, energy, healthcare, culture, and civic life – particularly in the Greater Houston area.”

      Eradiri further said that the Ijaw Cultural Centre, Houston, was launched at the event, adding that when completed, the centre would act as a meeting point for all Ijaws in the diaspora and provide research materials to scholars on matters concerning the Ijaw people.

      He said, “The event also launched the Ijaw Cultural Centre in Houston, United States, to preserve the Ijaw heritage. It will be a meeting point for all Ijaws in the USA, and it will enhance research of international scholars on Ijaw matters.”

      “I will also appeal to Ogbuku to help in the development of the Ijaw cultural centre. The city of Houston also declared the 5th of July Ijaw Day, in which the mayor made the proclamation and issued a certificate to that effect.”

    • South-south group canvasses sustainable leadership for Nigeria’s devt

      South-south group canvasses sustainable leadership for Nigeria’s devt

      A non-governmental organisation, the South South Change Project (SOSOCHAP), has called for the entrenchment of sustainable leadership in Nigeria as a means to drive national growth and development.

      Speaking at the inauguration of the Delta State chapter of the organisation at Okpuga Hall, Orerokpe in Okpe Local Government Area, the Chancellor of SOSOCHAP Worldwide, Pastor Jossy Ekpe, attributed the country’s widespread corruption to bad leadership. He emphasised that true leadership prioritises the welfare of the people.

      The event, powered by the South-South Development and Leadership Initiative, also featured free eye tests and the distribution of eyeglasses to residents.

      Despite Nigeria’s vast natural resources, Ekpe lamented that citizens continue to live in poverty, a situation he said has eroded societal moral values. “Corruption is the result of bad leadership. We keep voting for people who abandon us. What we get is far from what we deserve,” he said.

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      He explained that SOSOCHAP was established to support vulnerable groups, including widows, out-of-school children, and the neglected. “Our mission is to stand in the gap for those who have no one in government to speak for them,” he added.

      To promote unity, peace, and development across the South-South region, Ekpe said the organisation will host regular public engagements tagged “Citizen Square.”

      Also speaking, the newly inaugurated Chairman of the Delta State Governing Council of SOSOCHAP, Chief Victor Onogagamue, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to reorienting Nigeria’s value system and empowering communities.

      Other dignitaries at the event included the State Director, Pastor Dafe Peter Omovosa, and the Dean of Coordinators, Comrade Honesty Ekpemerong.