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Category: Niger delta

  • Cross River Rep Abang presents midterm scorecard, distributes N48m yuletide gifts

    Cross River Rep Abang presents midterm scorecard, distributes N48m yuletide gifts

    A member of the House of Representatives representing Boki–Ikom Federal Constituency of Cross River State, Victor Abang, has presented his midterm report to constituents and distributed Christmas gifts valued at N48 million across the constituency.

    Abang presented the report during a series of town hall meetings and briefings, explaining that the exercise was aimed at promoting transparency, strengthening accountability and enabling constituents to assess his performance in office.

    He said the initiative was also designed to counter misinformation, particularly on social media, by presenting verifiable facts about his legislative and constituency activities. 

    According to him, the realities of governance often differ from campaign promises, making it important for elected officials to regularly engage with the people.

    Highlighting key achievements, the lawmaker said his interventions had expanded telecommunications coverage to rural areas, with 35 communities now connected to telecom masts, a development he noted had improved communication and boosted economic activities.

    On border security, Abang recalled sponsoring a motion on July 5, 2023, on the Nigeria–Cameroon boundary dispute affecting communities in Cross River State. 

    He said the motion, which received broad support in the House, led to the establishment of an ad hoc committee and prompted the Federal Government to halt a demarcation exercise that could have resulted in Nigeria losing over 10,000 hectares of land to Cameroon, including parts of Biajua and Danare communities.

    He explained that the demarcation exercise had ignored established colonial boundary markers, including Pillar 113A, warning that failure to intervene would have led to significant territorial losses.

    In the health sector, Abang said he facilitated the provision of medical equipment valued at over N300 million to the Primary Health Centre in Abo Ebam and also supported the Federal Medical Centre within the constituency.

    The lawmaker further disclosed that he sponsored the National Park Service Amendment Bill, which seeks to establish the Okwangwo National Park Unit. He said the proposed unit would enhance conservation efforts, create jobs and ensure host communities benefit from eco-tourism.

    According to him, engagements are ongoing with national and international partners to secure approvals for supporting infrastructure, including access roads within the park.

    Abang also unveiled a compendium of his legislative and constituency activities titled The Banjuere, which documents projects executed during his first two years in the National Assembly. 

    These include the construction of a mini-stadium, expansion of telecommunications infrastructure and various health interventions.

    He said the distribution of Christmas gifts worth N48 million was part of his commitment to delivering democratic dividends and easing economic pressures on constituents during the festive season, assuring them that more bills, motions and constituency-based projects were underway.

  • Delta Police chief commissions ultra modern Warri Area Command complex

    Delta Police chief commissions ultra modern Warri Area Command complex

    The outgoing Delta Police Commissioner, AIG Olufemi Abaniwonda, has applauded the various stakeholders who contributed in the building of a befitting Warri Area Command office, describing it as a testament to a cordial working relationship between police and the residents of the area.

    Speaking during commissioning of the ultra-modern Area Command office complex in Warri on Monday, AIG Abaniwonda, who was performing his first official assignment in his new rank of an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), noted that what was being witnessed was part of the vision for initiating community policing two decades ago.

    While commending the Warri Area Commander, ACP Graham Imade, for ensuring the completion of the building project within two years of assuming office, the Police boss lauded the residents of the area, especially the traditional institutions, individuals, corporate bodies and groups who contributed towards the completion of the building project.

    He urged other officers to also take advantage of the good relationship built with the residents of their immediate communities to initiate ideas that would support policing operations in such places, inorder for the men and officers to be able to effectively perform their duties of securing lives and property in those areas for the good of the law abiding residents.

    Imade said he was challenged to take up the responsibility of completing the office complex on assumption of office to see that the Command’s was still operating in the same small building that had been there for decades and no longer befitting for its status.

    According to him: “When I assumed responsibility as the Area Commander, Warri, I felt the urgent need to improve the working environment of my Police personnel by intervening in the infrastructures which at that time, were not befitting the status of the Area Command. 

    “With this motivation in mind, I reached out to some friends and critical stakeholders forsupport in achieving the dream. It’s a well known fact that security is everyone business and the foundation upon which development thrives. 

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    “When our people feel secured, businesses flourish, investments grow, and communities prosper. Warri is a cosmopolitan city known for its vibrant economy, rich culture, and resilient spirit”.

    “It is therefore important that this city benefits from a security infrastructure befitting its status and future aspirations”.

    “My AIG Sir, our Royal Fathers, esteemed invited guests, Critical Stakeholders, and most importantly, our brave men and women in black and blue, I am honored to welcome you all to this grand opening ceremony.”

    Continuing, he said: “This facility represent a beacon of hope, a symbol of excellence, and a promise of protection, It’s a place where our dedicated officer will work tirelessly to serve and protect, utilizing cutting-edge technology and innovation strategies to keep our neighborhood safe”.

    “The building we are commissioning today, consists of 10 new offices, One Armoury, a spacious hall for meetings and training, and thirteen toilets.

     “At this juncture, I want to commend and express our deepest gratitude to our traditional leaders, very distinguished community leaders and friends, government functionaries, stakeholders, and all individuals who contributed materially and financially, to the construction of this magnificent building. 

    “Your generosity and commitment to the safety of our community are truly commendable. Your investment in the facility is a testament to the power of community spirit and the impact we can have when we work together. This partnership reminds us that progress is fastest when we build together.

    “To the officers and men of this Area Command, I salute you! Your hard work, dedication, contributions and sacrifice, have not gone unnoticed. You are the backbone of our community, and I appreciate your tireless efforts to keep the community safe”.

    “This facility is not a building; it’s symbol of our collective commitment to excellence, and I have no doubt that we will make the best use”.

    “As we commission this facility, I urge everyone to continue working together to build a safer, more secure, and prosperous community for all. Let’s keep striving for excellence, and let’s keep pushing the boundaries for what is possible! Don’t forget that “if you see something, say something.”

  • 2026 holds new hope for Delta Central, Dafinone assures

    2026 holds new hope for Delta Central, Dafinone assures

    Senator Ede Dafinone has assured the Delta Central Senatorial District and Urhobo Nation that 2026 holds fresh hope, greater opportunities and accelerated development, expressing it will outperform 2025 based on positive economic indicators. 

    In a New Year message on January 1, the senator noted that while the district may not yet be where it aspires to be, it has made measurable progress driven by resilience and collective determination.

    Dafinone urged residents, particularly those in rural communities, to remain focused and industrious, stressing that local businesses and traditional occupations remain critical to growth and prosperity. 

    He highlighted the existing alignment between the Delta State Government and the Federal Government as a rare opportunity to fast-track development across the state, with Delta Central positioned to benefit significantly.

    Calling for unity and a forward-looking mindset among the Urhobo Nation, the senator reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the Delta State Governor and the Federal Government to ensure that development reaches every part of Delta Central. 

    He expressed confidence that 2026 will be a year marked by progress, inclusion, and renewed hope for the district and its people.

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    According to him: “As we step into the year 2026, I extend my heartfelt goodwill and best wishes to the people of Delta Central Senatorial District and the entire Urhobo Nation. I am very optimistic that this year will be far better than 2025, from available economic indicators.

    “We may not yet be exactly where we aspire to be as a people, but we are certainly not where we used to be. Our collective journey has been marked by progress, resilience, and determination, and this gives me strong confidence that 2026 will be a year of greater opportunity and meaningful advancement.

    “I call on our people, particularly those in our rural communities, to remain steadfast and focused. The people of Delta Central are known for their resourcefulness and industry. I urge you to continue to pursue your businesses and traditional occupations with dedication, as they remain vital to our growth and prosperity.

    “The existing alignment between the Delta State Government and the Federal Government offers a unique opportunity to fast-track development. This synergy, if properly harnessed, will bring tangible benefits to Delta State in general and Delta Central in particular.

    “I urge the Urhobo Nation to remain forward-looking, united, and positive as we embrace the new year. I remain committed to working closely with the Delta State Governor and the Federal Government as partners to ensure that what is due to Delta Central is fully delivered and that development reaches every part of our district.

    “I am confident that 2026 will be a great year for Delta Central and the Urhobo Nation—a year of progress, inclusion, and renewed hope.”

  • Edo businessman disburses cash grants, food items to 1,500 vulnerable women

    Edo businessman disburses cash grants, food items to 1,500 vulnerable women

    • …we will do more next year,  Okoduwa

    A renowned Edo businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Godwin Okoduwa, has disbursed cash grants and food items to over 1,500 vulnerable women, including widows and the less-privileged, as part of his social welfare and women empowerment programme.

    The empowerment , which was held at the Okajiesan Town Hall, Irrua, saw each beneficiary receive ₦100,000 in cash support and a bag of rice, aimed at easing economic hardship and improving household stability.

    Speaking during the event, Okoduwa said, “This is Uwesan in Esan Central. What am doing now is empowering our people; women especially. It’s a personal effort, I am not a politician. I am a businessman; infact, a trader. I feel like giving back to the society. I have been doing it, this is not my first time”.

    He said the initiative was designed to enhance the social and economic welfare of the most vulnerable members of society, particularly widows who bear the burden of family survival under difficult circumstances.

    His words, “The empowerment of widows and less privileged women is not just a moral duty, but a social responsibility that we take very seriously. We recognize the difficult circumstances many of these women face after losing their loved ones, including economic hardship and social exclusion,” he said.

    According to him, the programme goes beyond temporary relief and is structured to restore dignity, hope, and opportunity, enabling beneficiaries to become economically self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the development of Edo State.

    “This empowerment is not just about providing financial resources, but about creating sustainable opportunities that will allow these women to support themselves and their families,” Okoduwa added.

    Some beneficiaries described the intervention as timely and life-changing, noting that the support would help them expand small businesses, meet family needs, and regain confidence.

    Organisers including Mrs. Okoduwa said the programme forms part of a multi-year empowerment plan, with assurances that more phases will be expanded to reach more persons.

    Community leaders and stakeholders present at the event lauded the initiative for its organisation, transparency, and scale.

    “The impact of this programme will not end today,” Hon. Linda Omonzele. “Empowered women change the narrative of their families and communities. Today, more than 1,500 families have a stronger chance at stability.”

    “For many of us, this is not just money or rice,” said one beneficiary. “This is hope. This is opportunity to build something better for our children.”

    Recipients also noted that the rice donation provided quick relief for families struggling with food costs, while the cash grant offered them flexibility to invest in petty trading, hairdressing, tailoring, farming inputs, transportation, or school fees.

  • NDDC budget must deliver real impact for Niger Delta people – Ibori-Suenu

    NDDC budget must deliver real impact for Niger Delta people – Ibori-Suenu

    The House of Representatives Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has insisted that the Commission’s proposed N1.75 trillion 2025 budget must translate into tangible development outcomes for communities across the Niger Delta.

    Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, gave the assurance on Tuesday during the NDDC’s budget defence session at the National Assembly, warning that lawmakers would not treat the proposal as a routine legislative exercise.

    According to her, the budget represents renewed hope and opportunity for millions of people in the oil-producing region and must therefore be people-centred, transparent, and strictly aligned with national development priorities.

    “The NDDC budget represents hope, opportunity, and the promise of a better quality of life for our people,” Ibori-Suenu said. “Every line item must be purposeful and aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda. This Committee will insist on accountability, transparency, and value for money.”

    She stressed that the House would subject the 2025 budget to rigorous scrutiny to ensure it delivers measurable outcomes in critical areas such as infrastructure development, human capacity building, youth empowerment, and economic inclusion.

    While commending the Commission’s ongoing reform efforts, the Committee Chair noted that legislative support would be tied strictly to performance and verifiable results on the ground.

    “The people of the Niger Delta deserve projects they can see, use, and benefit from,” she said, pledging sustained legislative oversight to ensure effective implementation of the budget.

    Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NDDC, Mr. Samuel Ogbuku, presented the Commission’s N1.75 trillion 2025 budget proposal, themed “Budget of Consolidation.” He described it as a shift from transactional governance to a results-driven and transformational development approach.

    Ogbuku explained that the proposed budget reflects the reform agenda of the current management and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He added that the Commission adopted a no-borrowing strategy, resulting in a nine per cent reduction from the 2024 budget.

    According to him, personnel costs were estimated at N47.5 billion, overheads at N96.4 billion, while capital expenditure remains the core focus of the proposal.

    The Managing Director also disclosed that the Commission had abandoned line-item budgeting in favour of sectoral allocations, a move aimed at reducing project delays and improving efficiency.

    Reviewing the Commission’s 2024 performance, Ogbuku noted that the NDDC exceeded its revenue projections, recording N1.945 trillion in actual revenue against a projected N1.911 trillion.

    The session ended with assurances from both lawmakers and the Commission’s management to deepen collaboration towards delivering sustainable development and inclusive growth across the Niger Delta region.

  • Otu opens 2025 bikers’ carnival

    Otu opens 2025 bikers’ carnival

    With a renewed commitment to safety, tourism promotion, and global cultural exchange, Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu has flagged off the 2025 Bikers’ Carnival in Calabar.

    The bikers’ carnival is one of the Carnival Calabar Festival’s signature events.

    Represented at the event by his deputy, Peter Odey, who declared the carnival open amid cheers from bikers, residents, and visitors drawn from within and outside the state, the governor assured participants and the international community that the state remains safe and well-prepared to host large-scale events.

    He disclosed that he personally inspected the carnival routes to ensure they were motorable and free of hazards.

    The governor said, “Let us tell the world that Cross River State is safe. I have gone round the routes myself; there are no potholes, and the roads are smooth.”

    He stressed the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols, urging all bikers to wear helmets, reflective vests, and ensure proper riding discipline to avoid accidents.

    He added that ambulances, medical personnel, and insurance coverage had been put in place to guarantee a hitch-free event.

    “With doctors on the ground, ambulances stationed, and insurance fully covered, we want this carnival to be remembered only for positive reasons,” he stated.

    Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, described the Bikers Carnival as part of a broader effort to preserve cultural heritage and reconnect younger generations with the values and creativity embedded in Carnival Calabar.

    He also revealed the presence of the ECOWAS Commission, with representatives from 12 member nations, noting that their participation underscored the growing business, talent, and creative-sector opportunities associated with Carnival Calabar on the regional stage.

    The event attracted strong international attention, with the Ambassador of Portugal to Nigeria, Paulo Santos, praising the organisation, professionalism, and enduring legacy of the carnival. He described his presence in Calabar as both a cultural and historical “homecoming.”

    “Calabar means ‘the quiet harbour’ in my language,” the ambassador explained, recounting the historic ties between Portugal and the ancient city. He lauded the enthusiasm and scale of participation, saying the carnival looked as though it had been organised for “200 or even 2,000 years,” rather than just two decades.

    Ambassador Santos pledged to encourage other diplomats in Abuja to experience Carnival Calabar, urging them to forgo their usual end-of-year holidays to witness what he described as one of Nigeria’s finest cultural showcases.

    One of the emotional highlights of the event came from 86-year-old UK-based diasporan, Mr. Richard Nzerem, originally from Imo State, who expressed deep gratitude for witnessing what he called a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

    Having lived in the United Kingdom for over 60 years, Nzerem said the bikers’ carnival exceeded his expectations and left him fulfilled. He thanked the state government for granting him the opportunity to be part of the historic moment.

  • Niger Delta ex-agitators withdraw marginalisation claims, reconcile with PAP leadership

    Niger Delta ex-agitators withdraw marginalisation claims, reconcile with PAP leadership

    Aggrieved first-phase Niger Delta ex-agitators have formally withdrawn their earlier allegations of marginalisation against the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), reconciling with the leadership of the Niger Delta Ex-Agitators’ Forum in a move aimed at strengthening peace in the region.

    The reconciliation follows weeks of tension triggered by claims that some ex-agitators who surrendered their arms in 2009 were being sidelined in the implementation of the amnesty programme under the leadership of Dr Dennis Otuaro. 

    The ex-agitators have now attributed the claims to misinformation and communication gaps.

    In a joint statement, leaders of the aggrieved group, including Obekuma Jacob, Don Alex Watchman, Patrick Tebegha, Tallest Gilbert Isobo and Douglas Otokolo, publicly recanted their earlier stance and pledged loyalty to the existing forum leadership led by its National President, Chief Aroni Oputu.

    The statement said consensus was reached after engagements with the leadership of the Niger Delta Ex-Agitators’ Forum and the Presidential Amnesty Coordinator, paving the way for renewed cooperation.

    “We, on behalf of the leaders that made the publication against Chief Dennis Otuaro, have come to declare that it was a misunderstanding. We have now resolved our differences and agreed to collaborate for the good of the Niger Delta,” the statement said.

    The ex-agitators admitted that their previous allegations of marginalisation of genuine first-phase beneficiaries were not based on facts but stemmed from personal misunderstandings and a breakdown in communication.

    They also warned against attempts by individuals or groups to exploit the earlier disagreement to create fresh divisions, stressing that such actions would be self-serving and against the collective interest of the Niger Delta struggle.

    Describing the development as the beginning of a new chapter, the ex-agitators cautioned that anyone seeking to undermine the renewed unity would be held personally responsible for their actions.

  • Group honours ACP Shaba with integrity award

    Group honours ACP Shaba with integrity award

    A group, ‘Urhobo People Integrity Organisation’(UPIO), has honoured the 2023 Best Policeman in Nigeria ACP Aliyu Shaba, with “Integrity Award On Effective Security and Policing”, for commitment to the protection of citizens lives and property, especially within Warri and Effurun metropolis where he’s currently serving as Area Commander.

    The award presentation ceremony held in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government area, saw other prominent illustrious sons of Urhobo land including: the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, Hon . Francis Waive, representing Ughelli North, South and Udu federal constituency in  the Reps and a distinguished legal luminary, Ama Etuwewe (SAN).

    Speaking at the occasion, the President of UPIO, Olorogun Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, said the choice of ACP Shaba, for the award was carefully made after due recognition of his outstanding performance in various capacities where he had served since his redeployment to the Delta state Command.

    He noted it was based on his commitment to crime fighting, especially the flash points areas like Ekpan, Ovwian-Aladja and Ughelli that contributed in the drastic reduction of violent crimes in these places and kept the area safe for residents of these communities who now sleeps with their two eyes closed.

    “It was in recognition of all these crime combating abilities that earned him the award of the Best Police Officer in Nigeria 2023 that of the Delta state branch of the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SANs) among others, in appreciation of his efforts to effectively policing of his coverage areas and beyond”.

    While stating awards such as this are meant to give honour to whom honour is due in the society, Okorodudu, urged other senior police officers to emulate the doggedness and resolve of ACP Shaba in the area of crime fighting and prevention wherever they are posted to serve.

    “It may interest you to know that the people in these communities are quietly observing the level of their commitment to a secured environment. It is in appreciation of these efforts that awards like this are being organized to honour their unrelenting crime fighting abilities within coverage areas”.

    Responding, ACP Aliyu Shaba, commended the leadership UPIO for finding him worthy to be honored among those eminent dignitaries and promised to continue to do his best in ensuring the sustenance of the ongoing war against criminal activities in the society.

    “I got all the honors and accolades I received in crime fighting as a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) and this has encouraged me even more, so now that am an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) I want to assure you all that I I will stepping up my commitment to combating criminals within my coverage areas”.

    “I’m more than ever committed to this course based on the fact that to whom much is given, much is expected”.

    *I therefore wish to use this opportunity to appeal for more cooperation with residents of these communities to see security as a collective efforts. This they can do by divulging useful information to the police to work with, especially in crime prevention”, he stated.

  • Cross River sets pace in women’s economic empowerment -BudgIT Report

    Cross River sets pace in women’s economic empowerment -BudgIT Report

    Cross River State has emerged as a national pacesetter in advancing women’s economic empowerment in the latest State of Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Report by civic-tech organisation, BudgIT. 

    The report places the state among Nigeria’s top-performing sub-national governments in gender-responsive economic development.

    Presenting the report on Monday, December 22, 2025, BudgIT’s Senior Gender Analyst, Damilola Onemano, explained that the assessment evaluated how Nigeria’s 36 States are enabling women to thrive across five critical pillars—agriculture, entrepreneurship, labour markets, emerging industries, and education and skills acquisition.

    According to her: “Cross River State distinguished itself through strong, measurable outcomes in sectors that are critical to women’s long-term economic inclusion.”

    From an agricultural standpoint, Cross River recorded the highest score nationwide—3.5 out of 4 points, earning a green rating and underscoring the state’s leadership in integrating women into agricultural production and land access. “Cross River’s performance in agriculture reflects deliberate policy choices that prioritise women within the agricultural value chain,” Onemano noted.

    The report further highlighted the state’s strong showing in women’s land ownership, with rates exceeding 10 per cent but below 15 per cent—an impressive feat in a national context where women’s access to land remains significantly constrained. BudgIT described this outcome as “a meaningful step toward economic security and productivity for women, particularly in rural communities.”

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    In the emerging industries pillar—covering ICT, the green economy, creative industries and digital entrepreneurship, Cross River stood out as one of only three states, alongside Lagos and Kaduna, to achieve a green score. “These states are laying the groundwork for women to participate in future-facing industries that will drive economic growth,” the report stated, noting that no state attained the aspirational blue score in this category.

    Cross River also featured prominently in fiscal support for women, ranking among only four states nationwide, alongside Lagos, Gombe and Ebonyi,. with specific budgetary allocations for women’s access to STEM education or training. Additionally, the state was listed among a small group of states with dedicated budget lines for women in creative arts, entertainment and culture, reflecting forward-looking investment priorities.

    While Lagos State emerged as the overall best performer with a total score of 19 out of 24 points, BudgIT emphasised that Cross River’s leadership in agriculture and emerging industries positions it as “a model for inclusive and sustainable economic growth at the sub-national level.”

    Nationally, the report observed that women’s participation in emerging industries remains the weakest-performing pillar, with most states clustered in the red and yellow zones. Against this backdrop, BudgIT noted that “Cross River’s green rating signals what is achievable when gender inclusion is embedded in economic planning and budgeting.”

    The traditional labour market pillar recorded the strongest national performance overall, while women’s political representation in state legislatures continues to lag across most states. Nevertheless, BudgIT stressed that “economic empowerment outcomes, such as those recorded by Cross River State, are critical foundations for broader gender equality.”

    BudgIT acknowledged that although a majority of states now have interventions supporting women entrepreneurs, the reach of national programmes—particularly the CBN Entrepreneurship Development Programme—remains limited. “Bridging the gap between policy intent and real-world impact remains a pressing challenge,” the organisation said.

    For Cross River State, the findings of the BudgIT report serve as affirmation and impetus, reinforcing its status as a national leader in women’s economic empowerment and offering a compelling blueprint for other states seeking inclusive, gender-responsive growth.

  • Dafinone bags Integrity award for effective legislative representation

    Dafinone bags Integrity award for effective legislative representation

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has been recognised by the Urhobo people for his “effective legislative representation,” in the Senate. 

    The Urhobo People Integrity Organisation (UPIO) conferred on him an Integrity Award at its 2025 awards ceremony on Monday in Ekpan, Delta State. 

    The event, at Bon Hotel Hyatt, brought together leading Urhobo stakeholders to celebrate public officers whose actions have had a measurable impact on the Urhobo people.

    According to the President of  UPIO, Olorogun Dr Ebenezer Okorodudu, the award was in recognition of Senator Dafinone’s “immeasurable contributions to the growth and advancement of the Urhobo Nation,” citing in particular his “pivotal role in restoring peace to Okuama Community after the military attack” and his efforts in securing the release of the Ovie of Ewu Kingdom is His Royal Majesty,  Clement Ikolo.

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    To drive home the importance of his contributions to restoring peace in Okuama, the award was presented on behalf of UPIO by the Ovie of Ewu Kingdom HRM. Clement Ikolo, and received by the Senator’s Chief of Staff, Olorogun Barr. Adelabu Bodjor.

    In an appreciation message, Dafinone described the honour as “a motivation to do more for the Urhobo people at all levels,” while assuring UPIO his “continued partnership and support.” He reaffirmed his commitment to people-focused representation anchored on peace-building, justice, and development across Urhoboland.

    The ceremony was attended by prominent Urhobo sons and daughters from across the state and was chaired by the President General of the Urhobo Progress Union, Olorogun Barr. Ese Gam Owe, underscoring the broad-based validation of Senator Dafinone’s legislative impact and leadership.

    The UPU President General, Olorogun Ese Gam also applauded Senator Dafinone’s representation and tasked him to continue to promote and protect Urhobo’s interest. He also called on all Urhobo sons and daughters, home and abroad to work for the betterment of Urhobo Nation.