The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Indigenous contractors back NDDC MD Ogbuku to develop Niger Delta

    Indigenous contractors back NDDC MD Ogbuku to develop Niger Delta

    The Niger Delta Indigenous Contractors Association (NDICA) has pledged to collaborate with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to achieve its mandate of facilitating the rapid development of the region.

    Speaking in an interview with reporters in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital,  the association’s  Acting President, Mr.Christopher Godbless Apolloss, applauded the NDDC management led by Dr Samuel Ogbuku for what he called its impactful leadership.

     He lauded the Ogbuku-led management for being accountable and transparent and called on all stakeholders to support the commission and its leadership.

     He described Dr Ogbuku as “a seasoned administrator and a true son of the Niger Delta  who understands the development challenges and plight of the people of the area.”

     He said: “Ogbuku has shown a high level of transparency in his day-to-day management since he assumed office. This has promoted unity and harmony among staff members, management and board members and ensured that the people work in synergy with international oil companies, state governments, local communities, and other stakeholders for purposeful development.”

    Apolloss hailed the achievements recorded since the inception of the Ogbuku administration, stating that his leadership quality was a testament to his commitment and dedication to the development of the Niger Delta.

     Highlighting some of the significant achievements of Dr  Ogbuku in various areas, Apolloss said he had impacted several lives positively in the Niger Delta  through people-oriented projects and programmes.

     He identified key achievements, such as the youth empowerment initiative, solar light projects to enhance security, road projects, and numerous rural intervention projects.

    Apolloss added: “The activities of the NDDC are in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, as evidenced in the youth development programme, where they are empowered through skill acquisition schemes to make them independent entrepreneurs.”

    “The recent launch of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme, under which over 10,000 youths will receive a monthly allowance of N50,000, is another good initiative introduced by the Ogbuku administration.”

     Apolloss praised the NDDC Managing Director’s various interventionist projects and programmes, including the “Light Up the Niger Delta” project, using solar-powered street lights.

    He confirmed that the NDDC solar streetlights had reduced criminality in the region’s nine states, hailing it as a game-changer that lit up remote communities. 

    He said the association was also happy that NDDC was working towards rolling out solar-powered water projects across the region to solve the problem of lack of potable water in the  region.

     He stated: “The transformation that Ogbuku has brought into NDDC is inspiring, and we are passing a vote of confidence in him. We appeal to the Federal Government to keep giving him all the support he needs.”

    The Secretary General of the  contractors association,  Prince Sodin Akiagba, an engineer, called on indigenous contractors and consultants carrying out various projects and programmes in the  region and, indeed, in the country to perform optimally with professionalism and best practices in their service delivery.

     He urged them to always adhere to the terms of their contracts with the NDDC and other corporate organisations.

    He called for adequate and timely funding of the NDDC to enable it to clear all outstanding debts to contractors, even as the Commission initiates new projects and programmes.

     He said that the contractors’ association was committed to collaborating with and supporting the NDDC to deliver the best services to the people.

    Akingba noted that indigenous contractors were competing favourably with their counterparts at the national and international levels.

     He said that the contractors’ association would continue to support the NDDC in achieving its statutory mandates by deploying best practices in contract delivery across the region.

    Read Also: Ogbuku to Ijaw: Tinubu deserves your support

    The Secretary-General stated the association’s position on the  proper funding for the NDDC.

     “We know that the commission needs a lot of funds to clear outstanding debts and fast-track construction works in the region.”

     “The INDICA pleads with all funding and developmental partners to meet their financial obligations to the NDDC to achieve its objectives and pay the outstanding debts owed to our members by the previous administrations.”

    According to  Akiagba, the Founder of The Niger Delta Indigenous Contractors Association ( NDICA) , the association was founded in 1999 as an umbrella body of Indigenous Contractors and Consultants of Niger Delta  to ensure that the people of Niger Delta partake as well as partner with development Commissions, Agencies and multinationals in pro

  • NDYC demands relocation of oil firms’ headquarters to oil-producing states, others

    NDYC demands relocation of oil firms’ headquarters to oil-producing states, others

    Miffed by what it described as systemic exploitation and marginalisation against the Niger Delta region, the Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has demanded amongst other things, the immediate relocation of the headquarters of the major oil companies operating outside its zone to the region.

    Speaking at a world press conference on Tuesday, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, the National Coordinator of the NDYC, said it was disheartening to note that non oil-producing states are not only playing hosts to the oil companies but reaping all the benefits that should ordinarily accrue to the oil-producing states in the Niger Delta region.

    “We demand immediate and comprehensive action from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration to address these lingering injustices. The era of silence and complacency is over.

    “We strongly demand the immediate relocation of oil companies headquarters and their affiliates back to the oil-producing states, It is an egregious insult to the people of the Niger Delta that oil companies and their affiliates, including oil servicing and oil insurance companies, operate from states that contribute nothing to oil production. 

    “These corporations exploit the resources of the Niger Delta while concentrating their offices, headquarters, and operations in cities like Lagos where they pay taxes, hire staff, and create economic value.

    “The recently proposed tax reform bill, with its focus on derivation and consumption-based revenue sharing, underscores the urgent need for these companies to be relocated to the oil-producing states immediately. As it stands, the existing arrangement perpetuates the impoverishment of the Niger Delta states and we strongly reject this.

    “Our demand for the immediate relocation of all oil companies headquarters to the oil producing states must be initiated and completed within the first quarter of 2025. No excuses will be tolerated.

    “All taxes, including corporate taxes, VAT, and royalties, must be paid directly to the host states. It is only fair that tax revenues generated from the oil extracted in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Akwa Ibom, and other oil-producing states remain within the region for its development following the proposed tax reform bill.

    “The Niger Delta states must be empowered to monitor and regulate the activities of these companies within their borders to ensure environmental accountability and equitable practices.

    “We cannot and will not continue to stand by as our resources are shipped out to enrich states that contribute nothing to oil production.

    “Furthermore, we unequivocally demand the full activation of Warri and Sapele Seaports, It is inconceivable that in a nation as vast as Nigeria, maritime trade remains concentrated in one State. The Federal Government’s neglect of the Warri and Sapele seaports is a deliberate sabotage of the Niger Delta region’s economic potential. 

    “These seaports are strategically located and equipped to drive economic growth in the South-South and South-East, yet they remain underutilised due to policies designed to favor a particular state.

    “We demand the immediate reactivation of the Warri and Sapele seaports to full functionality and it must be restored within this first quarter of 2025. 

    “The Federal Government and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) must provide the necessary funding, infrastructure, and administrative capacity to ensure these ports are operational at the highest level and there must be a decentralisation of maritime activities. 

    “Lagos is not the only port hub in Nigeria. Diversifying maritime operations will decongest Lagos ports, reduce inefficiencies in trade logistics, and rightly distribute economic benefits equitably across the country.

    “By activating these ports, Niger Delta states will have direct access to critical revenue streams, which can be used to fund infrastructure projects and social programmes.

    “The Niger Delta is the economic lifeline of Nigeria. We have carried the burden of this nation on our shoulders for decades, and we will no longer tolerate being treated as second-class citizens in a country built on the wealth of our land.

    Read Also: NDYC decries plot to undermine INEC

    “Lastly, we want to use this medium to strongly condemn the recent scrapping of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), as this is a glaring example of a move that will directly jeopardize the development of higher education in the Niger Delta and in Nigeria at large.

    “TETFund has been a lifeline for tertiary institutions across Nigeria, providing funding for infrastructure, staff development, and student resources in institutions that have suffered years of neglect. By scrapping this essential funding mechanism, the Federal Government has effectively declared war on education, particularly for underfunded institutions in regions like the Niger Delta that depend heavily on TETFUND’s interventions.

    “The NDYC will remain vigilant and resolute until the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders fulfill our demands. Nigeria can only thrive as a nation when all regions are treated with fairness, respect, and equity.”

  • Student union honours Akwa Ibom philanthropist

    Student union honours Akwa Ibom philanthropist

    The National Association of Ikono Students (NAIS) Worldwide has appointed philanthropist, Isaac James, as its patron in recognition of his contributions to education in Ikono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom state.

    The honour was bestowed on James, during the NAIS Cultural Day Celebration, an event that also epitomises the heart of Ibibio nation.

    James is the driving force behind the Isaac James Child Creativity Revolution project, which has provides essential educational materials to primary schools throughout Ikono local government area of the state.

    The occasion featured a formal citation presentation, induction, and an award ceremony, highlighting the philanthropist’s relentless support for education in the area.

    Represented on the occasion by Rustom Alexander, Program Officer of Heal the Globe Corporation, James emphasised the transformative power of education.

    Read Also: Sacked Akwa Ibom teachers appeal to Akpabio for reinstatement

    He urged students to embrace their potential as agents of change while reaffirming commitment to uplifting young learners and fostering community progress, not only in Ikono but beyond.

    The ceremony was attended by NAIS executives, students, and local leaders.

    They celebrated the awardee’s dedication to education and his continued efforts to shape a brighter future for the next generation.

    According to them, his appointment as Patron is seen as a call to action for greater educational support and advancement in Ikono and surrounding communities.

  • A’Ibom philanthropist provides succour to 77 widows, empowers petty traders

    A’Ibom philanthropist provides succour to 77 widows, empowers petty traders

    A philanthropist in Akwa Ibom, Pastor Eseme Emmanuel Udi, has distributed money to 77 widows in Esit Eket local government area of the State.

    Udi also gave cash awards to petty traders, donated over 500 exercise books with biros to schools in the area and announced scholarship awards for 10 students in secondary school and 10 pupils in primary school.

    He announced plans to pay bursary for all Esit Eket students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

    Udi said he was motivated by his personal experience while growing up  having been raised by his widow mother during which he faced challenges in getting quality education. 

    “I have done fishing, cut palm fruits, gathered them for sale in local market. I have been a bus conductor in Lagos, just to provide for my widow mother.

    “Therefore as an orphan whom God has blessed, I am determined to make positive difference in the live of others”

    He, however, advised the beneficiaries to manage their resources prudently and to put God first. 

    The Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Council, Mrs. Uduak Ikemesit Ikot, commended Pastor Udi for his benevolence, praising his commitment to empowering the community. 

    She promised to partner with Pastor Udi to advance education and empowerment initiatives in Esit Eket LGA.

    The beneficiaries, including widows and students, expressed their gratitude to Pastor Udi, promising to make prudent use of the resources provided. 

    Read Also: Philanthropist lifts 200 with N100m in Kwara

    One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Hannah Edu, said, “We are grateful to Pastor Udi for his kindness. This empowerment will go a long way in supporting our businesses and improving our livelihoods.”

    A widow, Mrs Emem Samuel Akparawa said that the first money he received from Pastor Udi was used to add with the little she had, to pay her daughter’s school fees. 

    She confessed that it is not easy to be a widow, suffering alone to take care of yourself talk less of the kids. “I always look for away to see him just to thank him” she concluded. 

    On her part a petty trader Madam Ekaette Aniefiok from Idung Asan, Etebi, prayed that the Lord who gave him the grace and wisdom to help the poor and the needy, will continue to replenish his pocket. She observed that there are many others in their community who are by far richer than him but do not remember the needy.

    The benefiting schools, which included Community Secondary School Akpautong, QIC Primary School Akpautong, Primary School Uduak Okok, and Primary School, Ineh Akpautong, were also grateful for the donation of exercise books and biros.

  • Modey calls for infrastructural development in Cross River north

    Modey calls for infrastructural development in Cross River north

    Ambassador Hart Modey, recently honored with the prestigious 1000 Peace Ambassador Award by the Peace Ambassador Advocacy in recognition of his philanthropic efforts, has called on the government to focus on infrastructure development, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors, in Northern Cross River State.

     He emphasised that political leaders must prioritise the welfare of their constituents and address pressing issues such as deteriorating schools and healthcare facilities that hinder daily life and economic activities.

    Modey highlighted the critical need for urgent repairs and upgrades of educational institutions and healthcare centers, including primary healthcare centers in areas like Abi Local Government Area, where facilities such as the Ediba Comprehensive Health Center are in a state of disrepair. 

    These institutions, vital for the well-being and development of Northern Cross River, have become increasingly dilapidated, causing severe challenges for students, patients, and the broader community.

    He noted that the poor state of these facilities has led to a decline in educational standards and healthcare delivery, negatively impacting the community’s overall quality of life. 

    “The neglect of these essential services not only hampers individual growth but also stifles the socio-economic development of the region,” Modey said.

    The dilapidated condition of schools and healthcare centers has contributed to increased dropout rates, poor health outcomes, and a general decline in community well-being. Modey urged the government to hold contractors accountable for completing awarded projects on time and meeting quality standards to alleviate the suffering of students and patients.

    Modey drew attention to the devastating effects of neglected educational and healthcare infrastructure, including loss of lives due to inadequate medical facilities, higher costs for families seeking quality education and healthcare elsewhere, and reduced economic productivity. Students and patients are particularly hard-hit, as poor facilities make it difficult to receive quality education and healthcare, resulting in increased costs for families and the community.

    He also stressed that improved infrastructure would bring numerous benefits to Cross River State and its people. Better schools and healthcare centers would enhance learning outcomes, ensure better health services, and create a more conducive environment for economic opportunities. For the community, improved facilities would lead to a more educated and healthier population, thus boosting income and productivity.

    Modey urged lawmakers and political officeholders, regardless of party affiliation to work together to address the pressing issue of infrastructure in the region. He emphasized that political defection and distractions should not derail their focus on delivering dividends of democracy. “The people come first since they are the ones who voted these leaders into office,” he said.

    He also urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain focused on its development agenda while calling on the Federal Government to allocate resources for the renovation and upgrading of schools and healthcare centers in the northern part of the state. “This is not about party politics; it is about improving the quality of life for the people who elected you,” Modey stated.

    Modey reaffirmed commitment to advocating for infrastructure development, which he sees as the foundation for progress and prosperity. He called on all stakeholders—political leaders, contractors, and citizens—to play their part in ensuring that Northern Cross River State receives the attention and resources it deserves.

    He noted that if the educational and healthcare facilities are improved, the region would witness better educational outcomes, improved health services, and enhanced socio-economic activities, benefiting not only the people of Cross River State but also neighboring communities and beyond.

    Following Ambassador Hart Modey’s statements on road infrastructure, the State Government under Governor Bassey Otu has commendably initiated major road repairs across the state.

  • Niger Delta stakeholders warn of unrest over exclusion from ownership of oil blocs

    Niger Delta stakeholders warn of unrest over exclusion from ownership of oil blocs

    Stakeholders from the Niger Delta region have warned of the possibility of another round of unrest and militancy in the region if the “unlawful” exclusion of their companies from the 2022/23 mini bid round and licensing of oil blocs by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is not revisited.

    In a letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu dated 31st December 2024, the affected Niger Deltans through their lawyer, Blessing Agbomhere Esq. of Blessing Agbomhere and Partners, drew the attention of the President to what they described as the flagrant disregard for the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, Local Content Laws and the 1999 Constitution as amended by the NUPRC while carrying out the bid round and licensing of oil blocs. 

    The Niger Delta stakeholders namely; Undiandeye Akonfe, James Okeati, Chief Victor Okiri, Fortune Nakoro, Arc. Kenneth Anyanwu, Okwara Idika, Akpan Edem, Otetubi Tolulope, and Olali Solomon are appealing to president Tinubu to among other things, set up a committee to analyze the mini bid round and licensing as carried out by the NUPRC, insisting that the process lacked transparency and disenfranchised them, despite having fulfilled all the requirements for participation.

    The letter reads: “Your Excellency will kindly recall that some deep offshore blocs were put on offer for the 2022/23 Mini Bid Round and other blocs which cut across onshore, continental shelf and deep offshore terrains were also put on offer for the Nigeria 2024 Licensing Round by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and an invitation for tender placed to this effect on the website of the NUPRC.

    “It is our Clients instruction that upon the invitation for interested investors to bid for these blocs, several investors bided including companies with the technical and financial capability whose majority shareholders are indigenes of the Niger Delta region and/or whose head office are situated therein.

    Read Also: Niger Delta indigenes urge NUPRC to reverse ‘unfair’ licensing of oil blocks

    “It is also our Clients instruction that, despite the fact that Niger Delta stakeholders are key contributors to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, Niger Delta Indigenous investors were unjustly and systematically excluded from the licensing process despite their substantial investments, environmental sacrifices, and statutory rights under the Petroleum Industry Act and the Nigerian Content Development and Management Act.

    “Companies were coerced into purchasing data worth millions of dollars from select offshore vendors (PGS and TSG) without alternatives. This requirement imposed severe financial burdens on participants, creating a barrier for smaller local companies, particularly those in the Niger Delta.

    “After bidders submitted applications and met stringent conditions, including expensive data purchases, NUPRC unilaterally altered the terms without prior notice or concessions to participants. Assets initially allocated were unjustly withdrawn and returned to the bidding ‘basket,’ rendering previous investments null and void.

    “Revised terms facilitated access to cheaper data and other advantages for certain preferred parties, unfairly disadvantaging original bidders who complied with stricter requirements. These actions undermine fair competition, eroded investor confidence, and violated procurement guidelines, leading to targeted disqualification of Niger Delta Companies.

    “Companies from the Niger Delta, despite fulfilling financial and procedural requirements, were unjustly disqualified through opaque processes. This exclusion marginalizes regional players, exacerbates inequality, and disregards the principle of inclusive development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

    “Achieving sustainable peace and development in the Niger Delta region requires a commitment from all stakeholders especially the federal government. Local content policies in the Niger Delta should aim not only to create jobs but promote economic opportunities and ensure local investors partake in these opportunities and the wealth generated by the oil industry. It is by supporting local businesses and creating an environment of transparency and accountability that a more sustainable and peaceful future for the region can be guaranteed. 

    “Be all these as they may, we have our clients’ instruction to respectfully request Your Excellency to do as follows: Set up a Committee to carry out a thorough and independent investigation into the financial flows linked to data sales and the criteria used for disqualifications. 

    “Re-evaluate disqualified bids with transparent and equitable criteria, ensuring fair treatment of all participants, especially Niger Delta companies. 

    “Develop safeguards to prevent unilateral changes in bid terms, mandatory offshore data purchases, and discriminatory practices.

    “Our clients are implicitly confident in the capacity of Mr. President to address these concerns with a view to promoting a greater sense of fairness and inclusivity of the Niger Delta people in the allocation, sharing and utilization of the abundant material resources that lie in their region, having regard to Your Excellency’s enviable antecedents.”

  • Rep member empowers constituents With 15 tons tipper

    Rep member empowers constituents With 15 tons tipper

    Member representing  Abak/Etim-Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State Clement Jimbo aka ‘Youth slot’ has empowered constituents with 15 tons tipper automobiles. 

    The Deputy Chairman, House Committee on National Planning earlier  empowered  over 250 constituents with N8,000 cash gift to enable them venture into agriculture programme of their choice after participating in a agro-allied training he sponsored. 

    Jimbo also  facilitated the grading of rural roads across Nung Oku Ikot, Ikot Edet, Nto Unang and Uruk Ata Ikot Akpan villages in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. 

    To improve brightness and intensify security for road users who pass through Abak to Uyo at night, the lawmaker procured not less than 39 stands of solar powered street lights. 

    Thirty stands of the street light were installed along Ediene Old Road while nine  of it are strategically installed at Health Centre Road, Ibanang Ediene, both in Abak Local Government Area.

    Presenting the tpper and documents to the Tipper Loaders Association of Nigeria, Abak chapter,  Jimbo said the gesture  was in fulfillment of his campaign  promises. 

    He said haulage is a profitable business venture, appreciating the association’s support during electioneering campaign. 

    Read Also: PDP not dead, Damagum replies Kwankwaso

    He promised to provide another tipper next year if the current one is managed properly and meets the expected outcomes.

    Responding the Mr. Ndipmong Uwem William, President of the  Tipper Loaders Association, Abak Chapter  praised Jimbo for the empowerment, promising to take good care of the tipper under his leadership and ensuring its optimal utilisation.

     Dr. Uduak Utibe, President of Ediene Development Union, commended Jimbo for making the Ediene indigenes proud through commitment and numerous empowerment initiatives, including the 15-ton tipper, which will greatly benefit the community.

    Elder Samuel Usoro, President of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, Lagos, moved a motion for Jimbo’s re-election, acknowledging his commitment to the less privileged in the sector and his dedication to their welfare.

  • 2025 holds great promises, says Dafinone, applauds Tinubu over re-opening of Warri refinery

    2025 holds great promises, says Dafinone, applauds Tinubu over re-opening of Warri refinery

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta North) has called on the Urhobos, Deltans and Nigerians to be resilient and optimistic, saying the New Year holds greater promises.

    The lawmaker in his New Year Message also applauded President Bola Tinubu for the re-opening and commencement of operations by Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company, located in Ekpan, in the heart of Urhobo land.

    He tasked Nigerians to continue to support the President Tinubu led government, saying that most of the perceived harsh economic policies, particularly the removal of petroleum subsidy and the floating of the Naira, have started yielding positive results and more of such results would be recorded in 2025. 

    The statement reads: “As we step into the year 2025, I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, extend warm New Year greetings to the Urhobo Nation, Deltans, and all Nigerians. This is a time for renewed hope, resilience, and optimism as we reflect on the past year and look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. I assure you that brighter days are coming, and together, we will make 2025 a year of tangible progress and prosperity for our people.

    “I want to specially commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold leadership and the decisive actions taken to reposition our economy. A key milestone in this journey is the commencement of operations at the Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company, located in Ekpan, in the heart of Urhobo land. This monumental achievement will significantly boost domestic refining capacity, create jobs, reduce the pressure on foreign exchange, and bring much-needed relief to millions of Nigerians. I urge the people of Delta Central and Nigerians at large to continue to support the Tinubu administration, as its economic policies are beginning to yield results, and more of these successes will become evident in 2025.

    Read Also: New Year: Power minister calls for continued patriotism from Nigerians 

    “For the Urhobo Nation, 2025 presents an opportunity to strengthen our unity, deepen our commitment to progress, and collectively build on the foundations laid in the past year. The commencement of operations at the Warri Refinery is a testament to the federal government’s focus on revitalizing critical infrastructure, and as stakeholders, we must remain steadfast in supporting initiatives that bring development to our land. Let us embrace this year with renewed energy and a commitment to working together for the betterment of the Urhobo Nation.

    “I also call on our people and Nigerians across the country to be patient and continue to stand behind the government as the current economic reforms gradually take shape. While the journey has been challenging, it is clear that the steps being taken by the administration will ensure long-term stability and sustainable growth for our economy. I am confident that with the resilience of our people and the right policies in place, 2025 will bring increased opportunities and improvements in our standard of living.

    To my constituents in Delta Central, I remain committed to providing effective representation and advocating for the development of our region. I will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to attract federal projects, create employment opportunities, and ensure that our people benefit from the dividends of democracy. Together, we will build an Urhobo Nation that reflects the true potential of the Urhobo people and serves as a beacon of progress in Nigeria.

    “As we celebrate the New Year, let us resolve to approach 2025 with renewed determination, unity, and faith in our collective ability to overcome challenges. May this year bring peace, prosperity, and fulfillment to every home in Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole. Happy New Year to you all, and may the days ahead be filled with blessings and success.”

  • APC women leader lauds Okpebholo’s 13th-month salary

    APC women leader lauds Okpebholo’s 13th-month salary

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Woman Leader, Dr. Mary Alile, has lauded Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo for approving the 13th-month salary for workers. 

    She said it was a laudable gesture that reflects the governor’s commitment to employee welfare and good governance.

    Alile believes the initiative signals a promising future for Edo State under the leadership of Governor Okpebholo. 

    “This is a sign of good things to come. A government that prioritises its workforce is a government that truly understands the essence of development,” she said.

    The 13-month salary initiative, coupled with the automatic employment of First Class graduates from both Nigerian and international universities, has been widely celebrated. 

    Alile said the policy not only incentivises hard work and academic excellence but also ensures that the state’s civil service is enriched with the best talents.

    She highlighted how such policies align with the APC’s vision of improving governance and promoting sustainable development. 

    Read Also: Warri refinery restoration, New Year gift to Nigerians – Gov Okpebholo

    “Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated exemplary leadership, and this move will undoubtedly inspire other states to follow suit,” she added.

    According to Alile, the governor’s approach, which also includes a Graduate Development Programme (GDP) aimed at rotating First Class graduates across government ministries and private sector placements, has been described as forward-thinking. 

    It ensures that young professionals gain broad experience while contributing to the state’s progress.

    Alile further praised the governor’s efforts to create a conducive environment for workers and graduates.

    She said: “This is the kind of governance we promised Nigerians—one that prioritizes the people’s welfare and creates opportunities for all.”

    The announcement has received widespread commendation from labour unions, civil society groups, and members of the public, with many describing it as a morale booster for Edo State workers.

    As the APC continues to steer the nation towards development, leaders like Governor Okpebholo exemplify the party’s commitment to delivering impactful policies that benefit the citizens. 

    Alile expressed optimism that this gesture would set a precedent for other states and contribute to national growth.

  • Eno endorses Champion Breweries official beverage for Ibom Air

    Eno endorses Champion Breweries official beverage for Ibom Air

    Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has declared Champion Breweries Plc the official beverage for Ibom Air, Akwa Ibom’s flagship airline.

    Speaking at an event commemorating the launch of Champion Breweries’ new canned products, Eno described the brewery as a symbol of Akwa Ibom’s heritage and excellence.

    The Governor said: “This is the drink for our people and it comes in different brands – Champion Lager Beer and Champ Malta, Champion Lager with Ginger Extract, Champ Malt with Butter Cookies and Champ Malt with Tiger Nut. In fact, Champ Malta at some point in this country won an award for being outstanding and I’m glad we could take it to the world. Just as Ibom Air is for Akwa Ibom, Champion is for Akwa Ibom. Ibom Air can serve these drinks, going forward.”

    He emphasised the importance of promoting home-grown products, adding, “It is made in Akwa Ibom, recognized by Akwa Ibomites and the world. Let’s celebrate what God has given to us, and congratulations!”

    The endorsement comes at a pivotal time for Champion Breweries Plc, which has recently expanded its product line to include canned beverages. This development is set to enhance distribution and cater to a broader market.

    Pastor Imo Abasi Jacob, Chairman, Board of Directors of Champion Breweries Plc, reflected on the journey that led to this milestone. 

    He highlighted the widespread demand for Champion beverages across Nigeria, from Lagos to the northern regions  but also acknowledged the hitherto logistical hurdles.

    The Chairman said: “Champion is a lager beer that was launched in the ’70s, and it remains the toast of the market. However, our challenge has always been distribution. The problem was that this market favorite was only available in bottles, limiting its reach. Today we have launched our CAN formats so Akwa Ibomites and Nigerians as a whole can now enjoy champion brands which they have always loved in cans too.”

    “Therefore, this king was limited from influencing the market and bringing good returns to the good people of Akwa Ibom State. When I joined the board a little over a year ago, it was unthinkable that Champion Breweries products could be in cans. Technology had shifted, the market had shifted, but the capital to adapt wasn’t available. Today, our CAN formats are a dream come true,” Pastor Jacob explained.

    He went ahead and credited Governor Eno’s leadership and business-friendly policies for making the shift to cans possible.

    Read Also: A’Ibom: Eno signs 2025 budget of N955bn

    “Your Excellency, I can say that this means a lot to us. In the past, when we launched our products, the bottles rarely returned intact, affecting production. Our competitors took advantage, buying and breaking our bottles, starving us of resources and limiting our growth. Today, we are glad the God of the golden era has come to our aid, broken the jinx, and we now have both cans and bottles.”

    The Chairman lauded the management team at Champion Breweries for their resilience and innovation, which he believes will further solidify the brand’s standing in Nigeria’s competitive beverage market. 

    The event concluded with a resounding call to support local industries, with Governor Eno’s endorsement serving as a catalyst for Champion Breweries’ continued expansion and success.