The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Matrix Energy promises to sustain Ifiekporo Unity Cup

    Matrix Energy promises to sustain Ifiekporo Unity Cup

    Gentlemen Football Club has won the maiden edition of the Ifiekporo Unity Cup sponsored by Matrix Energy Group in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

    Gentlemen FC defeated Young Boys Football Club by one goal at an electrifying final at Ifiekporo community football field on Tuesday.

    The football fiesta was organised for soccer teams in the five host communities by Matrix Energy Group, a leading Nigerian indigenous oil company.

    After a keenly contested first half that ended goalless, Solomon Anote put Gentlemen FC ahead with a powerful strike at 30 minutes of the second half.

    The final, which was attended by leaders of the various host communities of  Ifiekporo, Ijala-Ikeren, Ubeji, Egbokodo, and Aja-Etan communities, also had in attendance management staff of Matrix Energy Group.

    The football tournament was also to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Matrix Energy Group as well as to celebrate the yuletide season with the people of the host communities.

    Speaking with journalists at the end of the competition, Matrix Energy’s Executive Director (Downstream), Mr. Luqman Salam-Alada, described football as a globally unifying game and praised the host communities for their unwavering support of the company.

    Represented by the company’s Human Resources (HR) official, Mr. Yekini Abayomi, Salam-Alada promised to sustain the Ifiekporo Unity Cup as a catalyst for uniting the people of the area.

    Read Also: EKSU Galaticos, nine others  thro’ to MOB Unity Cup Finals 

    He noted that drawing the lessons learnt from the maiden edition, the next edition would be bigger and more attractive to competing teams drawn from the various communities.

    “As part of our 20th anniversary, we are very happy to sponsor this football competition, which is aimed at deepening our (Matrix Energy Group) relationship with host communities. Today, we are proud of what we have achieved with this tournament.

    “As you all know, Matrix Energy Group is keen on the development of her host communities. This is one of the many supports Matrix is giving to the communities within our operation base. When the idea of this tournament was sold to us, we immediately bought into it.

    “We are interested in sustaining the existing peace in this area. You can see the smiles on the faces of the leaders of the five communities. If there’s peace among the host communities, it will cascade to our operation. The Ifiekporo community has been very hospitable to us.

    “The two teams that advanced to the finals are not indigenous teams but are resident here. I can assure you that next year will be better than this. We will do more in organising the tournament. We are proud of the outcome,” Salam-Alada noted.

    On his part, the public relations officer of Ifiekporo community youth body, Engr. Andy Omagbemi Eyifoma, congratulated Gentlemen FC for winning the maiden edition of the trophy, stressing that the tournament would be sustained to promote peace and unity among communities in Matrix operations lines.

    He commended Matrix Energy Group for sponsoring the game and ensuring that there is peace in its areas of operation in the Warri South Local Government Area.

    Other leaders of the various host communities, including Amb. Peter Ede and Pa. Francis Eyifoma commended Matrix Energy Group and competing teams for the success of the tournament, stressing that the competition will engender peace and unity among the host communities and oil firms operating in the area.

    The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of trophies, cash gifts, and medals to the competing teams and organisers of the tournament.

  • NUPRC committed to fairness, inclusivity in oil licensing process – Nelson Adanna

    NUPRC committed to fairness, inclusivity in oil licensing process – Nelson Adanna

    Public analyst Nelson Adanna has expressed concerns over a recent article by Blessing Agbomhere, a Labour Party member, published on an online news platform that has stirred reactions within the Niger Delta community.

    According to Adanna, Agbomhere, whose party lost the recent election and who continues to express distress over the post-election fallout, raised serious allegations against the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

    Adanna noted that Agbomhere demanded the NUPRC reverse the 2024 licensing and the 2022/23 Mini Bid Round for oil blocks in the Niger Delta region, citing a lack of inclusivity and fairness in the process.

    He also opined that, in response, the Concern Group of Indigenous Niger Delta Citizens has highlighted this claim as a potentially treasonous action, questioning the intent behind Agbomhere’s article. Despite these allegations, it is crucial to set the record straight regarding the fairness, transparency, and inclusivity of the NUPRC’s processes.

    Speaking on the matter, Adanna stated, “The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has consistently upheld its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and fairness in managing Nigeria’s oil and gas resources. In the face of recent accusations, the NUPRC is reaffirming its adherence to the principles of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which governs the oil licensing and bidding processes.

    “The NUPRC’s operations are conducted with a clear focus on ensuring that all stakeholders are treated equitably, regardless of their geographical or political affiliations.

    “The bidding processes for both the 2024 Licensing and the 2022/23 Mini Bid Round were carried out in strict accordance with the PIA, which was designed to ensure transparency at every stage. Independent observers closely monitored these processes to guarantee their credibility and fairness. Every eligible stakeholder, including those from the Niger Delta, was given equal opportunities to participate in the bidding process.

    “The Niger Delta region’s central role in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry is well recognised, and proactive efforts were made to ensure Indigenous participation in the bidding rounds. Several indigenous Niger Delta companies successfully met the eligibility criteria and actively participated in the bidding, securing opportunities to contribute to the sector’s growth.”

    He added, “Despite claims of regional exclusion, the NUPRC’s approach was designed to encourage local participation, ensuring that indigenous companies could compete on a level playing field. The NUPRC firmly believes that the success of the oil and gas sector hinges on the inclusion of all stakeholders, particularly those from the oil-producing regions.

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

    “The allocation process for oil blocks has been meticulously crafted to align with both environmental sustainability and economic growth. The NUPRC’s focus is to ensure that Nigeria’s oil and gas resources benefit not only the host communities in the Niger Delta but also the broader Nigerian economy.

    “The process also considered environmental and social factors, reinforcing the NUPRC’s commitment to a balanced approach that promotes sustainable development. By prioritising national development goals, the NUPRC seeks to harmonise the interests of the oil-producing regions with the overall well-being of the nation.

    “The NUPRC has stated that claims of regional exclusion are baseless. The commission follows an impartial process, evaluating applicants based on objective criteria such as technical expertise, financial capacity, and legal compliance.

    “While delays did occur during the bidding process, they were necessary to refine the framework and ensure that international best practices were adhered to. These delays were not meant to exclude any stakeholders but were aimed at creating a more thorough, fair, and transparent process.”

    Continuing, he explained that suggestions making the rounds that a new bidding round is required are unjustified, stating that the process has already been subjected to independent audits.

    “Moreover, the suggestion that a new bidding round is required is unjustified. The process has already been subjected to independent audits, which confirmed its fairness and compliance with the necessary legal and regulatory standards. Repeating the process would create unnecessary regulatory instability, potentially deterring further investment in the sector.”

    He added: “In conclusion, the NUPRC remains committed to fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. The commission invites all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to address any lingering concerns and collaborate on solutions that will benefit all parties involved.

    “While the allegations raised by Blessing Agbomhere are without merit, they highlight the need for continued transparency and open communication in the sector.

    “The NUPRC values the contributions of the Niger Delta and is determined to ensure that the oil and gas sector serves the interests of all Nigerians. By working together, stakeholders can contribute to the development of a more sustainable and equitable oil industry that benefits the nation as a whole.

  • Renewed Hope: SMEDAN DG gifts 500 bags of rice to constituents at Christmas

    Renewed Hope: SMEDAN DG gifts 500 bags of rice to constituents at Christmas

    The Director General of the Small Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii, has donated five hundred bags of rice to constituents of eleven wards in Aniocha South LGA, Delta State, during the festive season.

    The All Progressive Congress (APC) stalwart said the gesture was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope mantra.

    The DG, who distributed 27 units of 25kg bags of rice and 300 units of 10kg bags of rice to the 11 wards in Aniocha South, also presented 200 bags randomly to constituents, totalling 500 bags of rice.

    Odii urged constituents to keep hope alive, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope mantra progresses steadily and makes positive strides. These policies of the President are what we need at this time as a nation to grow.

    He advised constituents and Nigerians in general to support Mr President in this fight to ensure a much better Nigeria shortly, noting that when one fights corruption, corruption fights back. What we face today is the impact of corruption striking back and not ill-fated policies as painted by a desperate move for power.

    Read Also: Tinubu calls for renewed hope, belief in prosperous Nigeria

    He further pleaded with constituents to stay safe and enjoy the holiday season, taking cognisance of the fact that Jesus is the reason for the season.

    APC Chairman, Norbert Akachukwu Sochukwudima, Aniocha South LGA, stated that “in all honesty, this is a clear sign of many more things to come; hope is alive, just like the agenda of our dear President, the Renewed Hope agenda. What the DG of SMEDAN has done in reaching out to the grassroots, the executive members of the APC across the 11 wards of Aniocha South, his immediate constituency, and his local government is a noble one.”

    He further stated: “We appreciate him greatly; the rice has been evenly distributed and many are leaving here happy. We have prayed for him and appreciate him.

    “At the time, we were worried because we had been expecting this kind of gesture, and we are glad it has finally come. We know more will come by the grace of God, and we are grateful.”

    APC youth leader Aniocha South, Austin Utulu, said: “At least this time, the people will smile because something like this has never happened before.”

  • Niger Delta indigenes urge NUPRC to reverse ‘unfair’ licensing of oil blocks

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

    Some Niger Delta indigenes have urged the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to reverse the 2024 licensing and 2022/23 Mini Bid Round for oil blocs in the oil rich Niger Delta region

    They gave the commission a seven day notice to do so.

    The indigenes said that the process was discriminatory and unlawful as it was in clear violation of the Petroleum Industry Act, which is the Commission’s own operational guideline.

    They said they have been “unjustly excluded from the licensing process despite their substantial investments.”

    In a letter addressed to the Chief Executive of NUPRC, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Counsel to the aggrieved Niger Deltans, Blessing Agbomhere of Blessing Agbomhere and Partners, notified the Commission of the intention of his clients to begin legal proceedings against it if at the end of the seven days notice the commission fails to carry out a fresh bidding process for the oil blocs in conformity with the fundamental principles of fairness, equity, and inclusivity.

    Some of the Niger Delta indigenes who the law firm is representing included: Undiandeye Akonfe, James Okeati, Chief Victor Akposeseye Okiri, Fortune Nakoro, Arc. Kenneth Anyanwu, Okwara Idika, Akpan Edem, Otetubi Tolulope and Olali Solomon.

    Read Also: Reps query NUPRC over N120 billion expenditure on personnel, overhead

    The letter said: “You will also recall that Niger Delta stakeholders are key contributors to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and have been unjustly excluded from the licensing process despite their substantial investments, environmental sacrifices and statutory rights under the Petroleum Industry Act. Additionally, the two year delay in the licensing round has raised significant concerns about transparency, regulatory compliance, and the economic viability of the process.

    “Excluding the Niger Delta Companies from benefiting from the resources in their region could lead to renewed agitation and conflict in the region. A licensing process that excludes critical stakeholders from resource governance undermines the peace building efforts achieved through years of negotiation with Host communities.”

    The indigenes are seeking that the declaration of the allocation of oil blocs to Companies whose majority shareholders are all from outside the Niger Delta region and whose head office are not located within the region as against the expression of interest by persons who hail from the Niger Delta region is a violation of sections 15(1), 42(1), and 318(1) of the 1999 constitution (as amended), the Petroleum Industry Act and the Nigerian Content Development Act.

    They are also demanding an order of the Court directing the Minister of Petroleum Resources to withhold his consent to the allocation until another round of bidding was conducted.

  • Families deny selling existing gas treatment plant

    Families deny selling existing gas treatment plant

    The Ubie families of the Ubeta Main Development Project in Ubeta and Ubarama Community in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State have, on Thursday, denied selling an existing gas treatment plant.

    Chief Saint Obidinma noted on Friday that the Ubeta Main Development Project never included a gas treatment plant as part of the projects to be built on the acquired property.

    He noted that the Obite gas treatment plant, located about 12 kilometres away from the Ubeta Main Development Project, was constructed before the project commenced.

    He said: “We wish to categorically state that TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited has never proposed or promised to build a gas treatment plant as part of the Ubeta Main Development Project.

    “The project’s scope and intentions were made public at inception and remain accessible for verification. The Ubeta Main Field Development Project has, in recent times, employed over 100 Ekpeye youths, significantly reducing criminal activities in the area while improving livelihoods.”

    The Chairman of the Ubarama Community Right of Way Pipeline, Elder Ogide December, appealed to the people of the area to desist from falsehood.

    He urged them to join hands to seize the opportunity for development and economic advancement of the area.

    He stressed that those sharing misinformation about the alleged sale of the land were doing so for political and selfish reasons, not for the advancement and development of the communities.

  • Dafinone celebrates Senator Nwoko at 64

    Dafinone celebrates Senator Nwoko at 64

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has felicitated with his Delta North counterpart Senator Ned Nwoko on his 64th birthday.

    Dafinone, in a signed statement, described the Anioma Prince as an outstanding philanthropist, legislator and advocate for societal progress, whose life has been of service to humanity.

    According to him; “Today, I join countless well-wishers in celebrating an extraordinary leader and patriot, Senator Ned Nwoko, on the occasion of his 64th birthday. Your enduring legacy as a philanthropist, legislator, and advocate for societal progress stands as an inspiration to many across Nigeria. Your commitment to service and excellence has brought significant development to Delta State and our great nation.

    “Your impactful initiatives, especially in the areas of malaria eradication and education, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. These achievements demonstrate your deep compassion for humanity and a relentless drive to improve the quality of life for others. It is this selflessness and visionary leadership that have earned you admiration and respect both within and beyond the Senate chambers.

    “On this special day, I celebrate your remarkable journey and achievements, which reflect resilience, courage, and an unwavering dedication to public service. May your birthday be filled with joy, love, and cherished moments as you continue to inspire us all with your dedication to building a brighter future.

    “As we honour you today, I also take this opportunity to wish you continued health, happiness, and many more years of fruitful service to our nation. Congratulations, Senator Ned Nwoko, and happy 64th birthday.”

  • Delta APC crisis: Omo-Agege supporters issue minority report

    Delta APC crisis: Omo-Agege supporters issue minority report

    • By Unue Emeka

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State remains embroiled in internal strife with the release of a Minority Report from supporters of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, opposing the majority report presented by the Olorogun O’tega Emerhor-led Reconciliation Committee.

    Emerhor’s Reconciliation Committee was established by the State Working Committee (SWC) to address grievances stemming from the 2023 general elections and to unify the party for future contests.

    While the majority report gained the support of key stakeholders, the minority faction rejected its recommendations, further highlighting the sharp divisions within Delta APC.

    The “minority report” further underscored the significant and sharp division within the Delta APC, and no tendency within the party is ready to shift ground for the party’s unity.

    In fact, some allies of Omo-Agege in the last election including the two APC elected Senators (Ede Dafinone and Joel-Onowakpo Thomas) and only APC House of Representatives member, Francis Waive, have since pitched tent with the majority report.

    Political observers agree that the National APC leadership must intervene decisively. Without a common ground, Delta APC risks becoming a shadow of itself. The call for a unified, inclusive leadership model has grown louder, particularly as the “one-man show” style of Omo-Agege is widely opposed by other leaders, including Minister Festus Keyamo and elected representatives.

    The majority report recommends collegiate leadership, transparency, and structural reforms to position the party for success. However, the proposed minority report challenges the legitimacy of the committee, accusing it of being biased and lacking transparency. It claims the inclusion of non-APC members in the reconciliation process rendered its recommendations invalid.

    The minority report also accuses the committee of exacerbating divisions by proposing unconstitutional leadership structures, such as the “council of leaders.” These proposals were labeled as destabilizing and contrary to party rules, reflecting a failure to prioritize genuine reconciliation.

    Another key contention is the committee’s recommendations for party congresses. While the Majority report provides for the Collegiate leadership to manage the Congress processes to ensure no one leader highjack the party structure, the minority faction argues for the status that has always allowed a super leader to highjack the process alleging that allowing a leadership council to manage congresses undermines grassroots participation and violates party guidelines.

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    The proposed minority report also alleges internal sabotage by unnamed leaders and accuses the majority report of failing to address these issues adequately. It proposes convening the State Executive Committee to restructure the party, emphasizing grassroots engagement and accountability. This includes a comprehensive review of the 2023 elections to identify and address lapses.

    Critics of the minority report argue that Omo-Agege loyalists’ stance prioritizes personal interests over collective progress. The lack of inclusivity in decision-making during his tenure as the party’s leader has been a recurring issue, further alienating stakeholders and weakening the party’s unity.

    Delta APC’s survival hinges on finding middle ground where all leaders are treated as equal stakeholders. Political analysts warn that continuing with the status quo will lead to repeated electoral failures, allowing the PDP to maintain its dominance in Delta State.

    To secure victory in 2027, Delta APC must embrace collective leadership, prioritize reconciliation, and restructure its internal processes. The party must move beyond a single-leader narrative and embrace a united front to present a credible alternative to the PDP.

    The way forward lies in shared responsibility and inclusivity. APC today is a divided party of those with Minister Festus Keyamo and those for Sen Ovie Omo-Agege.

    By recommending that these two leaders co-chair the Collegiate leadership council, the majority report provides a practical solution to the unification of the party.

    Omo-Agege can still play a pivotal role in the party without monopolising its structure. Only by fostering unity can the APC hope to challenge the PDP effectively and meet the expectations of Deltans longing for political change. Failure to do so will leave Delta APC fragmented and irrelevant.

    • Unue Emeka writes from Asaba, Delta State
  • Youths applaud FG, CDS for oil theft reduction in Niger Delta

    Youths applaud FG, CDS for oil theft reduction in Niger Delta

    Stakeholders under the auspices of the  Niger Delta Youth Coalition for Peace and Progress (NYCOP) have commended the federal government and the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chris Musa, for significantly reducing oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

    NYCOP in a statement signed in Port, Harcourt, Rivers State, by its national oresident, Olayinka Teidor, said Musa achieved giant strides in the war against economic sabotage through deployment of kinetic and non-kinetic measures.

    Teidor said by stabilizing Niger Delta and demonstrating the political will to fight crimes, the Federal government and the CDS has prepared a conducive atmosphere to attract local and foreign investments to the region.

    Teidor expressed confidence that the ongoing military operations would sanitise the region, increase government revenue and bring employment opportunities for the youths.

    He said: “The Major General Jimoh Jamiu led special monitoring team has brought about relative zero perpetration of the hitherto oil theft activities that were  prevalent in the Niger Delta to a record low level.

    “From when the current Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa took the helm of affairs as the CDS till today,  there has been a considerable decline in crime and criminality in the Niger Delta, especially illegal oil-bunkering activities, pipeline vandalism and other economic sabotage.

    Read Also: Lighting up Niger Delta: Footprints of an enduring legacy

    “The Chief of Defence Staff has engendered engagements with mass-mobilising stakeholders likethe  Movement for the Survival of the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) and other vibrant groups in the Niger Delta region”.

    Tiedor appealed to the government to seek ways of granting pardon to some repentant oil thieves, who would sign undertakings never to such illegalities again.

    He said: “We will like to call upon everyone to join forces with the government to collectively and comprehensively exterminate the menace of crime and criminality in the Niger Delta, especially oil theft and pipeline vandalism”, he said.

  • Chieftaincy conferment: Okobaro calls on Ughievwen indigenes to support Oborevwori’s administration

    Chieftaincy conferment: Okobaro calls on Ughievwen indigenes to support Oborevwori’s administration

    The Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, HRM Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, has urged residents of the kingdom to support the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Delta State.

    Speaking at the conferment of chieftaincy titles on 22 sons and daughters of Ughievwen Kingdom, the monarch emphasised the importance of backing a government that is making positive strides.

    The Okobaro, speaking through the Otota of Ughievwen Kingdom, Olorogun Matthew Shaire, expressed gratitude to all individuals who received chieftaincy titles during the ceremony.

    According to the Okobaro, the chieftaincy conferment is a testament to their dedication and service to our beloved kingdom.

    “This palace, the royal residence of the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, stands as a symbol of our heritage and unity.”

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    “We are honored to have HRM Dr. Matthew Ediri Egbi, our esteemed king, with us today. Alongside the respected chiefs of the palace, he embodies the strength and integrity of our kingdom.”

    “Supporting the present administration in Delta State is essential to our vision of a prosperous future for Ughievwen Kingdom.”

    The monarch encouraged each of the conferred chiefs to align with the prosperous Ughievwen agenda of the Palace, as their leadership and influence will be vital in advancing the kingdom. The Okobaro looks forward to their contributions in shaping the collective goals.

  • Akpabio’s outstanding leadership as stabiliser in nation’s polity

    Akpabio’s outstanding leadership as stabiliser in nation’s polity

    By Olorogun Bernard Okumagba

    Senate President, Obong Godswill Akpabio, has established himself as one of Nigeria’s leading lights. Having served as Commissioner, Governor, Senate Minority Leader and Minister previously, he is one person that can be truly regarded as experienced and well versed. This is what Senate President Akpabio has deployed since the advent of the new administration in May 2023, firmly establishing his place as a stabiliser in the nation’s polity. Over the last 18 months of his Senate presidency and chairmanship of the National Assembly, Senator Akpabio has displayed sagacity, delivering on the promise of effective representation and leadership. The Senate President has been hailed, rightly, as an uncommon leader, able to navigate our diversity and unite Nigerians for common cause.

    Senator Akpabio has proven himself a worthy national leader who has led the legislative arm to deliver on the agenda of the current administration. His tact in managing the National Assembly has ensured that even contentious matters have been handled with maturity, political sophistication and in the national interest. This is why I am assured that the tax reform bills before the national assembly will receive the required attention. These four bills which have been presented by the executive branch as the first major restructuring of Nigeria’s tax administration in a long while, hold a promise to deliver strong regional performance across all states. Yet, like everything novel, they also face challenges from various sectors. These disagreements could have torpedoed the bills, but for Akpabio’s astuteness. 

    Read Also: Tinubu sleeps well because Akpabio leads Senate, says Bamidele

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has handled the disagreements with the bill with prudence, ensuring that the proverbial baby is not thrown out with the bath water. He has deployed commendable leadership and goodwill to ensure that the bills are carefully considered, rather than throwing out the bills, which would have done great damage to the country, especially at a time Nigeria is in need of substantial economic reforms.  Senator Akpabio’s diligent approach of ensuring that the ongoing negotiations of contentious areas of the bills be undertaken to allow for inclusive consideration of all positions and the arrival at a formula acceptable to all that will spur further national growth and development is indeed Laudable.

    It is without a doubt that Akpabio is critical to the success of the Federal government’s reform agenda because of his position as Nigeria’s Chief lawmaker. So far, he has played a rallying role for the much-needed reforms, balancing them with the demands of the people as expressed by their elected representatives. This he has done with great aplomb! For instance, the Senate under Akpabio has moderated policies such as the electricity tariff increase to ensure that it was graduated to mitigate against a drastic impact on the citizens. Under Akpabio’s leadership the national assembly has intervened in labour disputes and is currently undertaking legislative action on the tax reform bills before it. In all, Akpabio has shown great capacity for building consensus, avoiding unnecessary disputes and distractions and ensuring national cohesion for national development.

    Akpabio’s worth and place as political leader has been fully accentuated by the unanimous endorsement of his leadership by leading political establishments including the bipartisan South South Senators Forum. In a communique issued at the end of their meeting on December 5 2024, the Forum passed a vote of confidence on Senate President Akpabio and reaffirmed their “commitment to standing by him and supporting his leadership in steering the Senate toward its constitutional mandate of making laws that serve the best interests of the nation and its citizens.”

    For us in the South-south geopolitical zone, Akpabio’s Senate Presidency is very significant for us as it is the first time since the return to democracy in 1999, that a Senator from our region is leading the Senate and the National Assembly. Senator Akpabio has been balanced and judicious and has led the Senate and the National Assembly with equanimity.

    Senate President Akpabio having garnered varied experience over the years  as Commissioner, Governor, Senate Minority Leader and Minister came well prepared for his role as Nigeria’s chief lawmaker, a position that demands diplomacy and firmness almost in equal measure. His leadership value is one that is clear from the accolades that have come from far and wide. The country needs firm, strong and  passionate Leaders at this time of our Nation’s history and Senate President Akpabio has been  outstanding in promoting national unity, cohesion and an economic renewal for our Country.

    _Okumagba is a former Delta State Commissioner for Finance and an APC leader in Delta State_