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Category: Niger delta

Work starts on Ibom deep seaport soon, Eno assures

Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has stated all is now set for construction work to begin at the Ibom Deep Seaport

Speaking to a packed-to-capacity arena during the Town Square meeting of Oron Federal Constituency, the Governor noted that he would flag-off the construction of the city gate and the sales office of the Deep Seaport as part of his second anniversary activities.

According to Eno: ” We are done with talking. We are done with drawing. We are done with paper work, now is time for action. This is a step forward in our quest to deliver this important project”.

This flag-off would coincide with the inauguration of the Uyenge- Deep Seaport Road.

During the Town Square aimed at giving people from Oron Federal Constituency the chance to avail the Governor of their needs, grants totalling N335m were given to traders, farmers and business owners in the five Local Government Areas of the federal constituency: Oron, Okobo, Udung Uko, Urue Offong Oruko and Mbo.

Details of the amount are as follows: N51 million to 108 farmers from the N2billion farmers loan; 543 business men and women got N225 million while 10 entrepreneurs received N5million.

On the grants, the Governor said they were done in line with his government’s policy of entrepreneurial and agricultural development.

Speaking further he said: “We have received the Needs Document and we’re going to look at it local government by local government and work with it as it will form part of the 2026 budget christened ‘The People’s Budget.

“As you know, there are 31 Local Government Areas and even if we cannot execute all the projects on this document, we will make sure we execute at least one in each of the five local government areas.

“Because we swore to be fair to all, we will not leave any federal constituency in the state behind.”

Eno, who expressed delight at the progress of the 14km Airport – Nsit Atai -Okobo Road, commended the contractor, Hensek Integrated Services, for the pace of work.

“That road has seen three successful government and has been used for campaigns, but today with the finishers anointing that God has given us, that road will be commissioned soon.”

Commending the massive turnout at the Stadium, Governor Eno urged people to keep faith with their representatives as the Needs Document would capture the priority needs and requests of people of the constituency.

The Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, an indigene of the Constituency, expressed appreciation for everything the Governor has done for her people and assured them that even more are on course under the ARISE Agenda.

“The Governor is very passionate about Oro and he has promised to do more. Everything I ask him, he is always very willing to do it for us in Oro. Thank you for loving me and my people”, she said, while also thanking everyone who made the occasion a success.

While setting the tone for the engagements, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Enobong Uwah, said: “We are here to listen to the Oro people, and get to know what their needs are, so that they can be captured in the 2026 budget.

Read Also: NNPC: Ojulari takes over from Kyari, seeks management, staff support to attain enormous targets

“You are going to have the ARISE traders’ grants, the ARISE Farmers’ Grants, and the ARISE MSMEs grants.

“For the love you have shown the Governor, I can assure you that he will show you more love in return from now till 2031.”

The SSG who particularly expressed joy over the progress at the Airport – Nsit Atai – Okobo Road,stated that the road was among the 52 projects being delivered by the Governor in the area.

In their presentation, the leaders of Oron Federal Constituency, who spoke through Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, eulogized the Governor for working hard to “depopulate the kingdom of the devil” by creating jobs for the youths in different ways.

“Our people shall stand by you in appreciation of your excellent performance across the entire State, and in Oron Federal Constituency in particular.”

The stakeholders thereafter adorned the Governor in their traditional regalia of wrapper and cap in appreciation for his life-changing projects for their people.

This was followed by a vote of confidence by the lawmakers from the federal constituency, following a motion by federal Lawmaker Hon.Martin Esin and seconded by Chief Effiong Johnson, the Chief Whip of the State Assembly.

In his goodwill message, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey, President-General of Oron Union expressed appreciation to the Governor on the numerous completed and ongoing projects and assured the Governor of their continued support come 2027.

Speaking for the royal fathers, the Paramount Ruler of Udung Uko and Chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council, Odidem Bassey Etim Edet expressed the support of royal fathers to the Governor for a second term in office, for ‘walking the talk’ in his development agenda for the people.

The local government chairmen, led by Hon. Uno Etim Uno, Chairman of Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area, also lent their voices in support of the government of Pastor Umo Eno and promised to stand by him for eight uninterrupted years.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of cheques to the beneficiaries by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, Senator Ekong Sampson and PDP State Chairman, Aniekan Akpan.

April 5, 2025
Uromi killing: NNPP chieftain condoles Kano governor, condemns jungle justice

A Southwest chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Amb. Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has expressed condolences to Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and the people of the state over the alleged killing of 16 Kano travellers in Edo State.

Ajadi denounced the act of jungle justice, stating that such actions have no place in a civilized nation and are unacceptable at this point in Nigeria’s history.

Reports indicate that 16 northern travellers were allegedly killed by local vigilantes in Uromi, Esan North Local Government Area of Edo State, while traveling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Kano State.

The victims were reportedly attacked and brutally killed by a vigilante group in Udune Efandion, a community in Uromi.

In a statement, Ajadi described the incident as tragic and called for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

He urged citizens to embrace unity, emphasizing the message in Nigeria’s National Anthem, which highlights the country’s strength in diversity and brotherhood.

He also cautioned against taking the law into one’s hands, advising that anyone suspected of criminal activity should be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agencies rather than subjected to mob justice.

He said, “I commiserate with the Kano State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Abba Yusuf, and the people of Kano State generally on the death of 16 northern hunters who were brutally murdered in Uromi, Edo State, on their way to Kano from Port Harcourt for the Eid-el-fitr.

Read Also: Uromi 16: Barau visits families of victims, donates N16m

“The incident is regrettable and is uncalled for. We cannot do anything for the dead except to pray for the repose of their souls. The Almighty Allah will grant them Aljannah firdau.

“I urged Nigerians to live as one irrespective of tribe or religion. Our National Anthem emphasise unity, and we must uphold the words of our National Anthem, which says’ though tribes and tongues may differ in brotherhood we stand.

“This type of action is condemnable and we should take solace in the fact that the government has promised to fish out those who carried out the dastardly act and I know they will face the full wrath of the law.

“The lesson from this incident is that we as Nigerians should not take law into our own hands. We should report any suspected criminals or crimes to the nearest law enforcement agencies.

“I also thank Governor Abba Yusuf for his efforts at preventing reprisal attack. God will console you and the people of Kano. We pray we will not witness such sad events again in our land”.

April 3, 2025
Nigerians in US seek reversal of state of emergency in Rivers

A coalition of Nigerian activists in the United States, under the Democratic Movement (DM), has announced a demonstration at the White House to protest the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.

The coalition is demanding the reversal of the emergency rule imposed on Rivers State by the Nigerian government, the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and the restoration of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

A statement on Thursday by Cosmos Collins Achief, president of the group, said the protest aims to draw global attention to what the coalition describes as a “direct assault on democracy and the will of the people.”

“We cannot sit back while an elected governor is removed, an entire legislature is suspended, and an unelected administrator is imposed. These are dangerous precedents that threaten Nigeria’s democracy,” he said.

The coalition said the protest will take place in Washington, D.C., with demonstrators marching to the White House and the U.S. Department of State to submit petitions demanding international intervention.

Read Also: Rivers crisis: Nwaeke has vindicated us, says APC

“The world needs to see what is happening in Rivers State. A democratically elected government has been suspended under the guise of emergency rule. We are urging President Donald Trump to engage with Nigerian authorities and call for the immediate restoration of constitutional order,” the statement added.

The pro-democracy movement also called on global leaders, including the United Nations and the African Union, to take notice of what it describes as a blatant attack on democratic governance in Nigeria.

“The president must understand that his actions could lead to serious diplomatic consequences. This move is a step toward dictatorship, and Nigeria risks facing international sanctions if democratic principles are not respected,” Achief warned.

The demonstration is expected to draw the attention of Nigerians in the diaspora, civil rights activists, and supporters of democracy who share concerns about governance in Nigeria.

April 3, 2025
South East Investment Corporation and the dawn of a new economic era in Alaigbo

By Jerrywright Ukwu

The South East Development Commission (SEDC) inaugurated an ad-hoc committee to develop the conceptual framework that would help establish the South East Investment Corporation (SEIC) on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

This initiative comes at a time when the south east needs to harness its vast economic potential and position itself as a key player in Nigeria’s investment landscape.

With a well-thought-out structure, the committee members drawn from the organized private sector, will position the SEIC to play a critical role in transforming the south east into an economic powerhouse, not just within Nigeria but across Africa.

One of the most commendable aspects of the committee is the calibre of professionals who make up its members. The committee members are not only drawn from the south east but also different parts of Nigeria, ensuring that the initiative is inclusive and aligns with the principles of federal character.

This diversity of thought and experience is expected to bring innovative solutions to the challenges of investment attraction and economic growth in the region.

The committee comprises a distinguished group of professionals with extensive expertise across various sectors. Michael Nzewi, the Group Managing Director/CEO of CardinalStone Partners, has significant experience in investment banking, having worked with Standard Chartered Bank, Vetiva Capital Management, and PwC.

Ogonna Nneji, Partner at Albourne Partners, leads the Risk Advisory unit and has a PhD in Finance from the University of Reading.

He has a background in quantitative analysis, including his previous role as a Quantitative Strategist at FBNQuest Asset Management.

Stella Duru, a Partner at Banwo & Ighodalo, is a highly regarded legal expert with over 23 years of experience in the energy and natural resources sectors.

She earned her LL.B from the University of Lagos and has been recognized as a top leader in project development and corporate law.

The committee also includes Fola Fagbule, Senior VP and Head of Financial Advisory at the Africa Finance Corporation, who brings vast expertise in infrastructure and corporate finance. Fola holds an MBA from Lagos Business School and a BSc in Physics from the University of Lagos.

Obianuju Uchenna, a structured finance expert, has a rich background in investment banking and international development consulting, having worked at Goldman Sachs and Avery Row. She holds advanced degrees from Oxford, Sciences Po, and Columbia University.

Ifeatu Onejeme, a seasoned finance professional, previously served as the Commissioner for Finance in Anambra State and has significant experience in banking.

He graduated with First Class Honours in Accounting from the University of Nigeria and has attended prestigious institutions, including Wharton Business School.

Read Also: Arthur Eze hosts SEDC board members, articulates vision, goals for regional transformation

Chinedu Nwigwe, an expert in infrastructure development and PPPs, has nearly two decades of experience in sectors like transport, urban infrastructure, and energy. He holds an MBA in Public-Private Partnerships from the Malaysian University of Science and Technology.

Mukhtar Mohammed, with 24 years of experience in the financial sector, specializes in banking, pension funds, and asset management, holding two master’s degrees in business and international affairs.

The SEIC is expected to facilitate investments into critical sectors such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), agribusiness, manufacturing, and services. By focusing on these sectors, the corporation aims to create a thriving business ecosystem that can compete nationally and internationally.

The committee members, working virtually without pay for an initial four-week period, are expected to draft a white paper outlining the conceptual framework for the programme. This document will serve as the foundation for the SEIC’s operations, detailing strategies for investment attraction, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.

There are expectations that SEIC will explore various funding sources for the benefit of the south east by collaborating with private investors, utilising federal and state government subsidies, establishing regional funding pools, engaging with development institutions like the African Development Bank or the World Bank for potential funding opportunities and consider bonds or sustainable infrastructure financing options for projects in the region.

Another major area of focus for the SEIC is the enhancement of economic activities in Aba, Onitsha, and Nnewi, three of the most industrious cities in the south east. Aba, known for its entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship, stands to benefit from increased investments in manufacturing and SME development.

Onitsha, a commercial hub with one of the largest markets in West Africa, will witness an upsurge in trade opportunities and improved infrastructure. Meanwhile, Nnewi, the industrial nerve centre of the south east, will see a renewed push towards industrialisation, fostering local production and reducing reliance on imports.

Beyond facilitating immediate investments, the SEIC will be tasked with developing a comprehensive master plan for the long-term economic transformation of the south east.

This entails securing strategic partnerships like collaborating with the Nigeria Railway Corporation to initiate rail transport and logistics. SEIC can leverage the NRC’s existing infrastructure and expertise to develop new rail lines or upgrade existing ones, enhancing connectivity within the region.

This collaboration can focus on creating efficient transportation networks that support economic activities, especially in industrial hubs like Nnewi and commercial centres like Onitsha and Aba.

The corporation will also ensure transparent financial management, accounting for every kobo that flows into the region, and creating mechanisms to attract private investors, especially from Ndigbo, to reinvest in their homeland.

More importantly, the SEIC’s objectives align with the investment agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which prioritises attracting investments into Nigeria.

The President’s manifesto insists on fostering an enabling environment for businesses, improving access to finance, and enhancing the country’s overall economic competitiveness.

By establishing a dedicated entity for investment promotion in the south east, the SEIC will contribute to the realisation of these national objectives while ensuring that the region becomes a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s economic growth strategy.

The launch of the committee represents a proactive approach to addressing the economic challenges facing the south east, all thanks to the Mark Okoye-led SEDC.

With a well-structured committee, a clear mandate, and a commitment to sustainable development, the corporation is set to become a catalyst for transformation. If successfully implemented, this initiative will not only boost the region’s economy but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s overall prosperity.

The south east has long been known for its entrepreneurial excellence and industrious spirit. With the SEIC in place, the region will have a structured mechanism to translate its economic potential into tangible growth and development.

This is not just an initiative; it is a movement towards a prosperous and self-sustaining south east, and indeed, a stronger Nigeria.

The journey to economic transformation has begun. The task ahead is immense, but with the right policies, partnerships, and commitment, the south east is poised to become an investment destination of choice.

– Jerrywright Ukwu, a journalist writes from Abuja. He can be reached at jerrywrightukwu.o@gmail.com.

April 2, 2025
Group recommends legal action against Atiku over comments on Akpabio

A group, Niger Delta Conscience Coalition (NDCC), is seeking legal action against former Vice president Atiku Abubakar for accusing the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio of corruption and abuse of women.

In a statement on Tuesday by the President, Aniefiok Fabian and secretary, John Adangu Dagogo, the NDCC urged Akpabio to consider legal actions against Atiku, describing the former VP’s comments as defamatory and inexcusable.

The statement reads in parts: “Niger Delta Conscience Coalition is deeply alarmed by the reckless descent of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar into baseless defamation against the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

‘It is regrettable that Atiku, out of sheer political frustration, has resorted to making cheap, wild and unfounded allegations against the President of the Senate, accusing him of corruption and abuse of women during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

“His unfounded claims that Senator Akpabio is corrupt and abused women during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State are nothing but a shameless smear campaign, lacking a shred of evidence, specificity, or substance. Atiku’s tirade is a disgraceful attempt to railroad lies into public consciousness, all in service of his selfish perennial political agenda”.

The group said that Atiku does not possess the moral credentials to accuse Akpabio or anyone of corruption having himself being enmeshed in series of corruption cases while serving as vice president.

“Alhaji Atiku Abubakar does not possess the moral credentials to criticize or condemn Senator Godswill Akpabio over alleged corruption and abuse of women, especially when these wild allegations, like so many we have seen in recent times, have no shred of proof, worst still coming from a man who is “haunted by corruption demons”, to borrow the words of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the diminutive former Governor of Kaduna State.

“Atiku, a former customs officer turned vice president, presided over the scandalous sale of a $3.2 billion national asset for a measly $250 million, a “mistake” he himself admitted, only to emerge inexplicably wealthy, bankrolling every of his never-ending presidential bid since 1999 with such financial muscle that is surprising of a custom staff.

“His own boss, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, exposed him in My Watch (Volume 2, pages 31-32), branding him as a man of “propensity to corruption,” “disloyalty,” “poor judgment,” and a “readiness to sacrifice morality, integrity, propriety, truth, and national interest” for personal gain.

“Given such a scathing indictment from someone who worked closely with him for eight unbroken years, Atiku Abubakar is the last person who should be pontificating on issues of corruption or even morality let alone making baseless allegations against anyone for that matter. His attempt to lecture Nigerians on integrity is not only laughable but also an insult to the collective memory of the nation.

“NDCC sees through the charade and notes the growing desperation of Atiku Abubakar and his cohorts, who have been orchestrating baseless allegations of sexual harassment against the Senate President in a bid to destabilize the Senate leadership.

“Their tactics are now clear and the masks are off, and the real players behind this smear campaign are finally showing their shameless faces. It has always been about 2027 politics, and their willingness to destroy institutions and malign individuals for political gain is both reckless and shameful.

“But their schemes, as usual, will fail. Senator Akpabio and the Senate leadership should remain steadfast and focused on supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through robust legislation and oversight to deliver prosperity to Nigerians.

“It is also curious that Atiku Abubakar’s misplaced and selective outrage on the unanimous approval by the National Assembly of Mr. President’s decision on the Rivers State political crisis is directed solely at the Senate President.

‘He claims to oppose the National Assembly’s unanimous support for the President’s decisions on Rivers State, backed by members of his own party in the Assembly, yet directs his miguided venom solely at the Senate President!

Read Also: Atiku’s attack on Akpabio a 2027 agenda against Tinubu, says group

‘Why is it always Senator Akpabio who is the target of these puerile and unwarranted attacks? Is it a mere coincidence, or is there an orchestrated scheme to vilify and undermine him for sinister reasons? Nigerians should take note”, the statement added.

The group advised Atiku to save his energy and resources for another episode of his serial presidential aspiration in 2027, rather than engaging in baseless character assassination.

The statement further reads: “The Senate President is encouraged to consider legal options against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and remain committed to his role and not be distracted or deterred by gimmicks.

‘If anything, the Senate President should further dedicate himself to ensuring that his leadership of the Senate, for which he has suffered several needless attacks on his person, will, in collaboration with President Tinubu, coincide with the turnaround in the well-being and prosperity of Nigeria and all Nigerians”.

April 1, 2025
Nigerian Coalition writes African Union over state of emergency in Rivers

...wants emergency rule lifted

A coalition of Nigerian professionals and political figures has petitioned the African Union (AU) over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

The group accused the federal government of unconstitutional actions, alleging that the suspension of Governor Siminilayi Fubara and dissolution of the State House of Assembly violated democratic principles.

In a letter addressed to AU Commission Chairperson Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the coalition warned that the move not only breached Nigeria’s constitution but also threatened democracy across Africa.

The petition, signed by Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola, Professor Adah George, Rt. Hon. Dr. James Oloko, and Dr. Mrs. Evelyn E. Ogolime, urged the AU to intervene and prevent what they described as an abuse of power.

“Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. The government’s decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles,” the petition reads.

“Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The president’s action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.

“This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.”

Read Also: Ibas pushes for completion of Rivers Trans-Kalabari Road project

Additionally, the coalition highlighted the broader implications of the government’s action, stating that it threatened the autonomy of states under Nigeria’s federal system.

The group called on the AU to send a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to assess the situation and ensure democratic institutions were protected.

“We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President’s decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.

“We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. And sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.”

April 1, 2025
Coalition tasks Rivers Sole administrator on transparency, asset declaration

A coalition of conscientious citizens has called on Rivers Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas to publicly declare his assets.

This demand comes after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu proclaimed a state of emergency in Rivers Stateh and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara his Deputy and the Rivers Assembly for six months.

The Coalition of Conscientious Citizens (3Cs), at a briefing in Abuja on Sunday, March 30, 2025, urged Vice Admiral Ibas to comply with Section 185 (1) of the Constitution.

This section requires individuals elected to the office of Governor to declare their assets and liabilities before taking office.

The coalition’s executive director, Dr. Gabriel Nnaji, expressed concerns that Vice Admiral Ibas’s failure to declare his assets could affect public confidence.

“It is especially concerning given the speed with which the withheld allocations for local governments were released without further changes in the judicial status of the excuses earlier given for withholding them.

“Arising from the foregoing, we urge Vice Admiral Ibas not to complicate issues for himself. He must immediately declare his asset to remedy his failure to fulfil the constitutional requirement to do the same before taking the oath of office as Sole Administrator of Rivers State.

Read Also: Be neutral, apolitical in key appointments, CDA tells Rivers sole administrator

“Given that Vice Admiral Ibas does not enjoy the mandate of Rivers State electorates being the product of a fiat, there is an additional burden on him to publicly declare his assets. This will ensure he does not enrich himself at the expense of the state.”

The coalition issued Vice Admiral Ibas seven days to publicly declare his assets, failing which they will initiate legal action to compel him to do so.

The coalition vowed to scrutinise his tenure and ensure that any misuse of state resources attracts legal consequences.

“We are consequently giving Vice Admiral Ibas seven days from today to publicly declare his assets, failing which we shall activate the appropriate legal processes to compel him to declare his assets.

“We are also putting Vice Admiral Ibas on notice that the Coalition of Conscientious Citizens (3Cs) will lead an amalgamation of willing Nigerians and organisations to place his tenure under constant scrutiny and ensure that any misuse or personalisation of the resources of Rivers State shall attract legal consequences,” it added.

March 31, 2025
Senator Dafinone felicitates Muslims on Eid Al-Fitr

Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has extended warmest greetings and felicitations to the Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly in his constituency on the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr.

Dafinone, in a statement, noted this significant celebration marks the successful completion of Ramadan, a period of devotion, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal.

“As families and communities come together to share in the blessings of this sacred festival, it is a time for gratitude, reflection, and unity.

“The teachings of Ramadan—compassion, self-discipline, and generosity—serve as guiding principles for building a more harmonious society,” he stated.

Dafinone acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Muslim community in Delta Central and urged all citizens to uphold the spirit of love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence that Islam embodies.

He encouraged everyone to extend kindness to the less privileged and continue fostering the values of empathy and mutual respect.

Read Also: Senator Dafinone applauds Tinubu’s leadership, legacy at 73

As the nation navigates through economic and social challenges, Senator Dafinone called for unwavering faith and resilience, emphasizing that through collective efforts, stating Nigeria can achieve greater progress and stability.

He reiterated commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure policies that enhance the welfare and prosperity of the people are championed.

“May this festive period bring renewed hope, abundant blessings, and continued prosperity to Delta Central and the entire nation,” he added.

March 31, 2025
Uromi killings: Kano deploys delegation to Edo

The Kano State Government has dispatched a high-powered delegation to engage with the Edo Government and the Hausa community in Edo over the recent brutal killings of Kano indigenes in Edo.

Gov. Abba Yusuf, who in a live broadcast, condemned the barbaric act and assured the people of Kano that his administration would relentlessly pursue justice for the victims.

The delegation, scheduled to depart on Monday, “will work to ensure justice is served and those responsible are held accountable.”

Yusuf also confirmed that all affected individuals would receive full compensation.

Read Also: Okpebholo inaugurates two governing councils, EDHA service commission

According to him, Edo Governor has assured him that most of the suspected culprits have been apprehended, with investigations ongoing.

He urged residents to remain law-abiding and refrain from any acts of retaliation, emphasising Kano’s reputation as one of the most peaceful states in the country.

Expressing deep condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Kano state, Yusuf described the incident as a “tragic and sad moment.”

(NAN)

March 31, 2025
From Vision to Reality: The Progressive Leadership of President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio

By Farouk David

In July 2024, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, leading the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, and other stakeholders, stood before Niger Delta youths, and promised a bold, new transformational approach under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. This was during the flag-off of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme for 10,000 young people, which officially launched last month.

The scene symbolises a new era of leadership in Nigeria, where visionary policies and inclusive growth unite for the nation’s benefit. Central to this transformation are two key figures: President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. And this March, positive reactions from Niger Deltans regarding the South-South Development Commission Bill signal more progress for the region.

Establishing the South-South Development Commission marks a significant milestone for the region, setting the stage for transformative development. History will undoubtedly recognise and commend the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Their legacies, defined by innovation and teamwork, have not only transformed governance but also established a standard for social equality, collaboration between legislative and executive branches, and regional growth, especially with the newly formed development commissions for other regions.

With a commitment to modernising Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape, President Bola Tinubu has established himself as a dynamic leader whose policies are significantly reshaping the nation’s future. His commitment to transforming the Niger Delta and other historically marginalized areas underscores a broader goal of promoting national unity and equitable development.

To that end, he has ratified five development commissions aimed at balancing growth across regions. These commissions, including the North-West (NWDC) and South-East (SEDC) commissions (July 2024), and the South-West (SWDC), South-South (SSDC) and North-Central (NCDC) commissions (March 2025).

These commissions, overseen by the Ministry of Regional Development, aim to address region-specific challenges, such as ecological degradation in the South-South, post-insurgency rebuilding in the North-East, and infrastructure deficits in the North-West and South-East. The SWDC focuses on industrialisation, while the NCDC targets security and economic disparities in the North-Central region. Their success hinges on transparency, accountability, and effective oversight to ensure they deliver tangible outcomes for marginalized regions.

President Tinubu has established himself as a dynamic leader whose policies are fundamentally reshaping the future of the nation. His dedication to transforming the Niger Delta region and other historically marginalised areas reflects a broader commitment to fostering national unity and facilitating balanced development.

Recognising that sustainable development is a multifaceted challenge, his tenure has also been characterised by a strategic emphasis on economic diversification, infrastructural development, and public-private partnerships. Central to his vision is the belief that regional transformation is essential not only for localised growth but also for overall stability and prosperity.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s journey to becoming a national leader is as inspiring as it is historic. On his path to becoming a champion for South-South Nigeria, his tenure as the Governor of Akwa Ibom state was marked by radical transformation and robust reform. His administration is still celebrated for its pragmatic approach to governance—a method that married the urgency of immediate needs with long-term developmental goals.

After decades of neglect, the then-governor constructed over 450 km of roads in the first year alone, including the dualisation of critical routes like Ekim Itam–Ekom Iman Road and Afaha-Obong–Ika–Etim Ekpo Road13. He linked all 31 local government headquarters with 20 km tarred roads, ensuring connectivity across the state, and upgraded federal roads, including the Calabar/Itu/Ikot Ekpene Road and Ikot Ekpene–Aba Road, despite federal obligations.

One of his most notable achievements as Minister was the completion of the NDDC corporate headquarters—a project that had languished for over 25 years. This accomplishment underscored his ability to deliver results even in challenging circumstances. Under his stewardship, the NDDC not only began to address long-standing infrastructural deficits but also set in motion policies to integrate the region more fully into the national economy.

By promoting accountability, transparency, and efficiency in government operations, he inspired a generation of leaders to prioritise reformative measures over political expediency. His strategies for diversifying the economy, investing in human capital, and forging robust partnerships with private stakeholders have had lasting impacts. The success of these initiatives is evident today, as many states mirror their policy frameworks in pursuit of regional prosperity.

Furthermore, a notable feature of this transformative era is the remarkable bipartisanship exhibited by the Senate. In an era when political divisions often undermine progress, the current Senate, under the able leadership of Godswill Akpabio, has emerged as a model of cooperation and consensus-building. This collaborative spirit is essential in driving forward comprehensive legislative reforms that resonate across the country.

The synergy between the executive and legislature has been crucial in speeding up key policy implementation. This collaboration is evident in the swift passage of bills that advance equality, stimulate economic growth, and guarantee proper representation of regional interests. Both government branches understand that Nigeria’s challenges—from infrastructure deficits to regional disparities and socio-economic inequalities—demand a unified approach. By cooperating effectively, they are establishing new governance standards and ensuring that the country’s development is inclusive and sustainable.

The transformative legacy of President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio is a beacon of hope for all Nigerians—a promise that the nation will continue to rise, propelled by the ideals of progress, inclusivity, and sustainable development. Their journey is far from over, and as new chapters are written in Nigeria’s development story, the impact of their leadership will be felt for generations to come.

Farouk David is a media executive and social commentator in Port Harcourt

March 30, 2025