The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Dein of Agbor receives leadership award

    Dein of Agbor receives leadership award

    The Richland County Sheriff’s Department, South Carolina, United States of America, has bestowed a merit award on His Royal Majesty, the Great Dein of Agbor Kingdom, Benjamin Keagborekuzi Ikenchuku.

    It is in recognition of his dedication to the well-being and progress of his people.

    The award comes two years after the State of South Carolina bestowed the Legislative Award on him in 2023.

    Announcing the latest award via a letter dated May 30, 2025, Leon Lott Sheriff thanked His Majesty for being a beacon of light in a world that often yearns for true leadership.

    He noted that the positive impact His Royal Majesty has made extends far beyond his kingdom.

    He said leaders like him are vital to the success and unity of communities across the globe.

    While he observes that efforts of the Dein in shaping the lives of his subjects can not go unnoticed, Sheriff Leon stressed that in a world where true leadership is rare, His Royal Majesty stands as a shining example of wisdom, compassion, and strength.

    The award letter reads in part: “In recognition of our friendship and your unwavering commitment to your people, I am deeply honoured to present you with the Sheriff’s Award for Excellent Leadership. 

    “This prestigious award is not easily earned, and I can say without hesitation that Your Majesty is most deserving of this recognition.

    “It would be my highest honor to host you for a formal presentation ceremony at my office. 

    “I believe such an occasion would be fitting for a leader of your stature. 

    XShould you graciously accept, our mutual friend, Mr. Tonna Okei, is prepared to coordinate the details at your convenience’.

    ‘’Thank you, Your Majesty, for being a beacon of light in a world that often yearns for true leadership. 

    “The positive impact you have made extends far beyond your kingdom, and leaders like you are vital to the success and unity of communities across the globe.”

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    Reacting to the latest award, Grand Knight Emeritus, Sir Tonna Okei, hailed His Royal Majesty for this latest feat.

    Okie, who is also the President of South Carolina Organisation of African Unity (OAU), said he marvels at the Dein’s selfless service and dedication to royal duties, adding that he is daily thrilled by the fact that such uncommon human attributes have won him torrents of awards in Nigeria and abroad.

    “I still recall with vividness his visit to Atlanta last year. The experience remains evergreen. 

    “Without any shadow of the doubt, our people will never forget when he did the Zoom with us. 

    “That was the first time officially that Dein was involved in any Zoom meeting and he spoke very well. 

    “He cited a lot of books. Our people were very proud of him. 

    “His Majesty took time to speak to our Carolina leaders during the racial tension months in the USA. 

    “HRM Dein called for peace and preached this to the leaders of the state and the Chief of Columbia Police and the Sheriff. 

    “This made the State of South Carolina to bestow on him the Legislative award in 2023,’’ Okei said.

  • Inegbeniki hails Okpebolo over Court of Appeal victory

    Inegbeniki hails Okpebolo over Court of Appeal victory

    Chief ( Dr.) Francis Inegbeniki, the Uzoya of Edo State, has congratulated Governor Monday Okpebholo on his electoral victory at the Court of Appeal, Abuja.

    Inegbiniki, in a congratulatory message on Friday, said Okpebolo’s success in the legal battle is a testament to the Governor’s resilience, determination and the overwhelming support of the people of Edo State.

    “ I, Chief ( Dr.) Francis Inegbiniki, and onbehalf of my family and teeming supporters, I am writing to extend my warmest congratulations to you on your recent electoral victory at the Court of Appeal, Abuja.

    “ Your leadership and commitment to serving the people have been truly inspiring in your very short period as Governor and I have no doubt that this your victory at the Court of Appeal will bring continued progress and prosperity to the state.

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    “ Your victory is a clear validation of the trust and confidence that the people have in your ability to lead Edo State to greater heights.

    “ Please accept my heartfelt congratulations once again on this significant achievement. I wish you all the best as you embark on the massive development of Edo State, and I look forward to witnessing the positive impact of your leadership on the state and its people. I remain your brother,” he wrote.

  • NDYC cautions Amnesty Intl’s report, says Nigeria not a failed state

    NDYC cautions Amnesty Intl’s report, says Nigeria not a failed state

    The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has condemned a recent report by Amnesty International, which claims that over 10,217 Nigerians have been killed in the past two years under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    The NDYC described the report as filled with “unverified data, outrageous exaggerations, and politically motivated narratives” aimed at undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty.

    The group’s National Coordinator, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, at a briefing questioned the credibility of Amnesty International’s figures, particularly the claims of 6,896 people killed in Benue state and 2,630 in Plateau state within two years, calling them “statistically ridiculous” and bordering on “reckless incitement.”

    The NDYC accused Amnesty International of demonstrating an alarming bias against the Nigerian state, repeatedly producing reports with exaggerated claims and politically motivated narratives designed to incite fear, discredit the government, and erode public confidence in the nation’s security institutions.

    The NDYC noted the government’s efforts to address security challenges, including modernising security operations, eliminating key bandit leaders, enhancing intelligence frameworks, supporting internally displaced persons, and engaging community stakeholders to foster reconciliation.

    The organisation argued that Amnesty International’s report completely disregards these realities and instead cherry-picks incidents to weave a narrative of failure and anarchy.

    The group demands that Amnesty International retract the report, issue a public apology to Nigerians, and cease all further attempts to destabilize the country through propaganda, exaggeration, and foreign-funded disinformation.

    The NDYC called on the international community, development partners, and all patriotic Nigerians to reject the report.

    The NDYC stressed that Nigeria is not a failed state but a resilient nation confronting its internal issues head-on and building mechanisms to ensure lasting peace.

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    They urged patriotic Nigerians to remain vigilant, united, and focused, and not allow lies and foreign propaganda to divide them or derail their journey towards a stronger, safer, and more prosperous nation.

    “Their continuous interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs, often without rigorous evidence or constructive engagement, suggests an ulterior motive far removed from the principles of justice or peace.

    “The Nigerian government is not blind to the security challenges confronting various parts of the country. However, to present these challenges as an uncontrollable bloodbath, while ignoring the extensive and ongoing counter-insurgency, peace-building, and community stabilisation efforts, is deceptive and disingenuous.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has consistently invested in modernizing security operations, eliminating key bandit leaders, enhancing intelligence frameworks, supporting internally displaced persons, and engaging community stakeholders to foster reconciliation. Amnesty International’s report completely disregards these realities and instead cherry-picks incidents to weave a narrative of failure and anarchy.

    “The NDYC questions where and how Amnesty International obtains its data. Who verifies their so-called investigations? Which independent and credible Nigerian organisations have validated these claims?

    “If Amnesty International truly has the welfare of Nigerians at heart, it should work with local organizations and government agencies in data collection, policy development, and peace-building.”

  • Bayelsa community protests alleged marginalisation by oil firms

    Bayelsa community protests alleged marginalisation by oil firms

    …calls on Fed Govt, Bayelsa govt to intervene

    Thousands of residents from the oil-rich Egbemo Angalabiri community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State staged a peaceful protest on Thursday, accusing Renaissance Africa Energy Company and Oando Plc of marginalisation and neglect.

    The demonstrators, comprising youths, elders, and women from the 14-village community, marched to the premises of the two oil firms to voice their grievances, alleging the companies have failed to provide employment opportunities and basic infrastructure despite operating over 100 oil wells and three flow stations in the area.

    Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the protesters called on the Federal Government and the Bayelsa State Government to intervene and compel the firms to comply with Nigeria’s Local Content Act by hiring qualified professionals and awarding contracts to indigenes of the host community.

    Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Tarakiri Clan, Engr. Lokiri Lawrence, who led the protest, told journalists that the community has endured years of neglect and economic exclusion by the oil firms.

    “In the past, they claimed our youths were not qualified, but now we have graduates in engineering, marine, geology, law and other relevant fields. Yet, they have refused to employ them,” Lawrence said.

    He added that Egbemo Angalabiri youths also own equipment and marine rentals suitable for oil exploration activities, but the companies have continued to contract such services to outsiders.

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    “The youths are jobless, our women are hungry, there’s no pipeborne water, no hospital, and no electricity. Yet, we host major oil operations. We are calling for immediate redress,” he stated.

    Barrister Benneth Joseph Ebikon, a human rights activist and spokesperson for the protesting youths, accused the companies of violating the Nigerian Constitution, the Local Content Act, and provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by ignoring the welfare of their host communities.

    “Since Renaissance Africa Energy and Oando Plc took over operations from SPDC and Agip, they have failed to engage the community. The Local Content Act mandates that unskilled jobs and at least 50% of semi-skilled roles in oil operations should go to locals, while 10% of skilled jobs must be allocated to community members. This is not being observed,” Ebikon said.

    Other community leaders, Mr. Noro Raphael and Mr. Benjamin Bide, stressed that the protest was peaceful and aimed at initiating dialogue with the oil firms. They urged President Bola Tinubu and the relevant authorities to step in and ensure justice is done.

    “We are not demanding charity. We want to work. Our professionals should be employed, and others should be given opportunities to learn and earn. We seek peace, not conflict. That is why we chose a peaceful protest,” they said.

    Repeated efforts to obtain official responses from Renaissance Africa Energy Company and Oando Plc were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

  • Oborevwori’s mid term performance impactful, says Okumagba

    Oborevwori’s mid term performance impactful, says Okumagba

    Prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State Olorogun Bernard Okumagba has applauded the first two years of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration as “impactful”, adding that it “evokes signs of better things to come.”

    In a statement congratulating the Governor on his second year anniversary, the former Commissioner of Finance said: “His Excellency, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has changed the landscape of Delta State with roads, bridges and investments in other infrastructure across the state. 

    “I am particularly pleased with his work especially in Warri, Uvwie and environs given the outstanding infrastructural projects such as the bridges that he has embarked on, which together upon completion will change the aesthetics and address traffic congestion in the area.” 

    He commended the Governor governor for “walking the talk of his MORE agenda by doing more in several sectors and giving Deltans across the state hope of more economic and social progress.” 

    Okumagba expressed confidence in Oborevwori to deliver on the people’s expectations and advised him not to rest on his oars but continue with the fervour with which he commenced his administration 2 years ago. 

    He commended the Governor’s efforts at attracting investment and providing jobs for young Deltans. 

    Emphasising the need to build structures that stimulate job creation, Okumagba said the government’s efforts at skills development and credit support were commendable and needs to be scaled up to an integrated plan that engages local and foreign investors for an overall massive impact on jobs to grow the economy of Delta State.

    He added that attention should be paid to attracting new investments especially in manufacturing and processing. “Given our huge natural resources, we can take advantage of the improvement in infrastructure to make Delta the economic production hub of Nigeria,” Olorogun Okumagba stated.

    Okumagba urged all Deltans to rally behind Governor Oborevwori and work together towards building a stronger, more united, and more prosperous Delta State.

  • Children day: NDDC says investment in Niger Delta children is its greatest legacy in 25 years

    Children day: NDDC says investment in Niger Delta children is its greatest legacy in 25 years

    Twenty-five years after its establishment, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has declared that its most significant legacy is securing the future of children in the region through sustained investment in education, socio-economic growth, and infrastructure.

    The Commission made this known during a colourful Children’s Day celebration held in Warri, Delta State, in partnership with the Indigo Bloom Health and Empowerment Foundation.

    According to the NDDC, the event highlighted its enduring commitment to youth empowerment and the development of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.

    Speaking at the occasion, Emavwoxia Oghenekohwo Irene, Head of Environment, Health, and Social Services (EHSS) at the NDDC Delta State office, emphasized the Commission’s belief that true development begins with investing in children.

    “At NDDC, we believe that children are not just our future—they are the reason for every road we construct, every school we build, and every healthcare facility we upgrade. As we celebrate 25 years of service, we are more determined than ever to help our children grow in a world that supports and encourages their dreams.”

    The day was marked by a series of activities promoting education, creativity, and social inclusion. A key highlight was the “Game of Intelligence” competition, where 11-year-old Praise Ogaga of Donnish International School emerged as the winner, displaying brilliance and confidence beyond his age.

    Jennifer Nnorom, a consultant with Indigo Bloom Foundation, hailed the collaboration with NDDC as instrumental to the success of the event.

    “This celebration was brought to life through the unwavering support of NDDC. Their belief in the power of children to shape the future of the Niger Delta cannot be overstated. With their help, we delivered mentorship, opportunity, and vision.”

    For many of the pupils and parents in attendance, the event went beyond entertainment. It served as an affirmation that education, not shortcuts, is the way forward.

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    Hon. Efeh Evelyn, Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who also is one of the organizers of the program, addressed the popular but troubling notion among some youths that “school is a scam” and strongly disagreed with it.

    “If school was truly a scam, none of us would be working at NDDC today. I’m here because I went to school. These children must understand that education is still the key,” she said.

    A parent, Albert Abiye Sibi who attended the event with his child, commended the NDDC for what he called “a job well done.” He urged the Commission to sustain the effort, adding that children must be taught that success comes through education, not internet fraud.

    “They should know that Yahoo is not the way. Education remains the best foundation,” he said.

    With 25 years behind it, the NDDC used the celebration to send a clear message: Infrastructure is important, but the real foundation for a better Niger Delta lies in the minds and futures of its children.

  • Groups hail Minister for interpreting Tinubu’s agenda in innovation science, technology

    Groups hail Minister for interpreting Tinubu’s agenda in innovation science, technology

    Interest groups in the Southeast and  Southsouth have praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its massive investments in science, technology and innovation.

    The Southern Youths Development Forum, Young Entrepreneurs in Nigeria and Igbo in Diaspora stated this in a joint statement on Tuesday said such investments would create jobs, ginger the economy and set Nigeria on the path of technological advancement.

    The statement by Bassey James of Southern Youths Development Forum and Emeka Obielom for Igbo in Diaspora also hailed the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Uche Nnaji Nwakabie for helping the administration inteprete it’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the sector.

    According to the statement, Nwakabie has used the ministry to drive the federal government’s vision by building bridges between Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and global centers of excellence.

    The statement reads in parts: “The Honourable Minister is intentionally and commitedly devoted to interpreting the vision and agenda of the Tinubu administration in the areas of innovation, science and technology.

    “His visits and partnership with global centres of excellence such as the Siemens Innovation Center in UAE, promotion of research and support for creativity have marked him as the right man for the job.

    “The Minister’s engagements are focused on strategic opportunities in Smart Technologies, Hydrogen and Carbon Technologies, AI-Enabled Systems, and Human Capital Development.

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    “These critical areas align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for sustainable economic growth and innovation-driven prosperity”.

    “He has gone further in exploring advanced research at Khalifa University’s cutting-edge laboratories, which will position Nigeria at the forefront of innovation on the African continent.

    “Besides he has secured global collaborations that will power Nigeria’s future, create jobs, and expand the frontiers of local technology development”.

    The groups commended upcoming African Raw Materials Summit, led by Prof. Nnanyelugo Martins Ikemounso, DG/CEO of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, with the support of the Ministry of Innovation Science and Technology.

    The statement added that the summit will foster local value addition and stimulate essential policy reforms. 

    “One such initiative is the proposed mandate for at least 30% raw material optimization before export, a step that can significantly enhance local economies.

    “This summit presents a valuable platform to raise awareness and inspire collaborative efforts across the continent. By promoting constructive discussions and actionable strategies, Africa has the potential to truly harness its resources for the benefit of its people and future generations”.

  • Allegations against Amnesty Coordinator false, says group

    Allegations against Amnesty Coordinator false, says group

    The allegation that the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dennis Otuaro is orchestrating troubles in the Niger Delta has been described as false and unsubstantiated. 

    An organisation, the Warri Media Group, in a recent statement signed by the quartet of Alex Shola Omaretsesione, Lily-white O. Esigbone,  Apoh and Tosan Osandatuwa alleged that Otuaro, an appointee of President Bola Tinubu, is responsible for undermining peace efforts in the Niger Delta region.

    The group also claimed that Otuaro teamed up with others to remove Edith Eyesan as the Executive Vice President, Upstream, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.). 

    However, in a statement by Eregbene Pascal, spokesman of the Niger Delta Rebirth Organisation, and made available to the press on Thursday, the organization described these allegations as misleading and baseless. 

    “Why we are not unmindful of the shenanigans of those who are jolted by the performance of Mr. Otuaro since his appointment to spearhead the all-important intervention to rectify the mistakes of the past, we like to say that the issue of development shouldn’t be ethnicised. Ordinarily, we would not have bothered to reply to these jesters but for record purposes. 

    “Saying that Mr. Otuaro has been working tirelessly to achieve the mandate of peace and stability in the Niger Delta region is akin to praising someone for what he is expected to do. To every peace-loving individual, the issue of joining the Ijaw nation to celebrate the Isaac Boro day should be seen with a spectacle of peace building and not injurious to anyone. In fact, the mandate of the PAP includes peace building among communities in the Niger Delta,” the statement reads.

    The group also maintained that attempts to bring the country’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, into the matter smacks of hypocrisy and an attempt to gain undue sympathy. 

    “We make bold to say that Mr. Otuaro, together with others, supported the aspiration of President Bola Tinubu and would never attempt to do anything to tarnish the image of the administration.  All ethnic nationalities within the PAP are important and considered for the programme. Mr. Otuaro is committed to achieving the aims of PAP and has nothing to do with theIndependent National Electoral Commission’s delineation exercise in Warri.

    “Allegation that Mr. Otuaro teamed up with to remove Mrs. Edith E. Eyesan as the Executive Vice President, Upstream, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), is also unfounded. Mr. Otuaro’s sterling performance in the last one year has been termed one of the best years since the last 14 years of the creation of PAP.

    “Apart from reducing tension and conflicts in the region, he has continued to work closely with ex-agitators, community leaders, and government agencies so as to ensure that PAP beneficiaries receive their entitlements as and when due. Gone are the days of just stipend payment, beneficiaries now get real empowerment programmes via training, skills development, and business support to help ex-agitators fit back into the society. All these have led to improved security and business activities in the Niger Delta,” the statement added.

  • Ikpoba ward 4 APC excos, members reaffirm support for Igbinovia

    Ikpoba ward 4 APC excos, members reaffirm support for Igbinovia

    The Ward Executives of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ikpoba Okha Ward 4 have reaffirmed support for the leader of the Ward, Hon. Felix Osaze Igbinovia.

    Igbinovia is also the Member representing Ikpoba Okha at the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC) Board.

    The ward executives, led by the Ward Chairman, Mr. Stanley Ekeoba, reiterated commitment to Igbinovia’s leadership, citing his exemplary performance, visionary leadership,and dedication to the development of Ikpoba Okha Ward 4 and the Entire local government.

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    They spoke during a meeting where they unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Hon. Igbinovia’s leadership.

    The Executives praised Igbinovia for his tireless efforts in promoting the interests of Ikpoba Okha Ward 4 and his commitment to the ideals of the APC.

    The Ward Chairman Ekeoba said: “We, the Ward Executives of APC in Ikpoba Okha Ward 4, are proud to reaffirm our support for our leader, Hon . Felix Osaze Igbinovia. His leadership has been a blessing to our Ward, and we are confident that he will continue to deliver on his promises.”

    They said the reaffirmation is a testament to Igbinovia’s popularity and acceptance among the party faithful in ward and Ikpoba Okha

  • Group commends NDDC’s achievements in human capital development

    Group commends NDDC’s achievements in human capital development

    The Centre for Cohesion and Development (CCD) has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its achievements in human capital development in the region.

    This position was part of a communique released after a one-day dialogue after a two-day workshop on consolidating efforts to boost human capital development in the Niger Delta.

    The group observed the need for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the development of the non-oil sector through the development of human capital

    The group further acknowledged the efforts of the NDDC led by the Managing Director, Dr. Sam Ogbuku through enhancing the knowledge, skills and capabilities of the young people in the region through multiple interventions, especially in education and health sectors. 

    CCD submitted that such a multifaceted approach will produce tangible results that will bring the expected impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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    However, the group observed the need to track progress achieved since the inception of this administration to ensure that improvements in all the relevant sectors of human capital are documented and properly communicated. 

    According to CCD, a lot has been achieved by NDDC and sister agencies in such critical areas but the absence of comprehension data may be part of the reasons for creating a different picture. 

    The group agreed to put together a research committee led by prominent scholars in the region to put together an independent and verifiable database that fully captures the state of human capital in the Niger Delta.