Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has been nominated and is set to attend the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) where he will receive the Distinguished Award for Excellence in Sustainable Development and Community Empowerment.
The ceremony will take place on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.
His nomination was communicated in an official letter signed by M.S. Danjuma, FCNA, Permanent Secretary (General Services Office), on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
According to the letter, the award will be presented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the high-profile national event organised by The Best Strategic Media (TBS) in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
This recognition highlights Governor Eno’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development, community empowerment, and inclusive governance. It further underscores the impact of his ARISE Agenda particularly in rural development, agriculture, security sector support, public service productivity, and the upliftment of vulnerable communities across the state.
Over the past two years, Governor Eno has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most decorated serving governors, earning multiple prestigious recognitions for good governance, transparency, infrastructure expansion, media openness, and people-centric leadership. His latest honour adds to a growing list of awards that reflect increasing national and continental affirmation of his leadership approach.
Among his recent recognitions are the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ Excellence Award for Good Governance, which highlighted his transparent and media-friendly disposition; the Social Media Governor of the Year Award by NISMA for effective digital communication; and the Governor of the Year (2024) from Leadership Group Limited for outstanding progress across key sectors.
He was also named Best Governor of the Year (2024) by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), cited for fiscal responsibility, responsible planning, and meaningful grassroots impact. His steadfast support to security agencies earned him the Most Consistent Security-Supporting Governor Award from Security Watch Africa Initiative and an Award of Excellence from the Nigeria Police Force, Akwa Ibom Command.
On the continental front, Governor Eno was recently honoured as African Governor of the Year (Infrastructure Development) at the African Business Leadership Awards in London, recognising significant achievements in urban renewal, rural infrastructure development, water sector reforms, and strategic planning.
As Governor Eno heads to Abuja for the NEAPS ceremony, many observers note that this latest recognition not only celebrates his leadership but also places Akwa Ibom firmly on the national map as a model of steady, people-focused development.
Category: Niger Delta
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Eno nominated for national excellence awards
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UPU election: Urhobo group demands publication of branch, delegate lists
Following perceived constitutional breaches threatening the credibility of today’s Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) national elections, at Uvwiamughe, Delta state, a group, Project Rescue Urhobo (PRU), has demanded the release of delegate list, eligible branches among others.
In a statement signed by Prince Noble Otadaferua (Convener), Comrade Daniel Etaga (Secretary), and Comrade Peter Darah (Publicity Secretary), the group insisted that the election cannot proceed unless the National Executive Council and Electoral Committee published the full list of branches, released the delegate list, verified eligible branches under the 12-month rule, and clearly communicated accreditation procedures.
PRU warned that the process had been “gravely compromised” by “systematic and repeated violations” of the UPU constitution. In particular, is the refusal to publish the official list of branches, which according to the group, violates Article 21.2(h) of the constitution.
“The constitution mandates full publication of all registered branches and sub-branches before elections. Instead, the NEC and Electoral Committee failed to publish the official list, secretly created or altered branches, and manipulated membership to exclude legitimate branches,” the statement claimed.
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PIND Foundation launches ₦113m TVET facilities, upgrade grants for Niger Delta youths
The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has launched a ₦113 million TVET Facilities Upgrade Grant to modernize and expand 14 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers across the Niger Delta.
The investment aims to strengthen the region’s skills development ecosystem by upgrading infrastructure, improving training delivery, and enhancing the long-term sustainability of TVET institutions operating in ICT, Building Construction, Agriculture, and Services.
Beneficiary centres are located in Aba (Abia State), Warri (Delta State), Port Harcourt (Rivers State), Uyo (Akwa Ibom State), and Asaba (Delta State); hubs that collectively support thousands of young people transitioning into work and enterprise.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Sam Ogbemi Daibo, Executive Director of PIND Foundation, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond equipment strengthening to long-term economic transformation. “We are not just upgrading equipment; we are upgrading futures. This investment ensures that TVET centers can train more young people with skills demanded by today’s industries. When we strengthen institutions that train youth, we strengthen livelihoods, businesses, and the future of the Niger Delta.”
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Beneficiary TVET operators expressed optimism about the expected impact. A representative from one of the Port Harcourt-based training hubs noted: “This grant will allow us to modernize our workshops and increase the number of youths we train annually. For many young people, skills training is access to dignity, income, and independence. PIND’s support brings us closer to that reality.”
The upgrade program will run from September 2025 to February 2026 and is expected to directly benefit over 10,000 unemployed youth through market-relevant skills and stronger job and enterprise linkages.
As part of the launch, PIND hosted a strategy workshop with government agencies, private sector partners, and development actors to explore pathways for building a more commercially viable and resilient TVET sector in the region.
By enabling TVET centers to operate at higher standards and absorb more learners, PIND is positioning skills development as a catalyst for youth employment, innovation, and inclusive growth across the Niger Delta.
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Abia launches massive NDDC-led campaign to eradicate drug abuse among youths
In a determined effort to stem the tide of drug and substance abuse among students and youths in Abia, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in strategic partnership with MARG Education International Ltd, has intensified its commitment by organizing a high-impact sensitization awareness across schools in Abia state.
This initiative is in commemoration with the International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, underscoring the urgency and global significance of the fight against substance abuse.
The comprehensive campaign aims not only to raise awareness but also to instill lasting behavioural change and resilience among students who remain vulnerable to the pervasive influence of drugs.
The awareness campaign themed; “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Chain, Say No to Drug Abuse,” also brought together the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) amongst others.
The campaign incorporated vital health talks and counseling sessions in schools aimed at equipping students with factual knowledge and practical tools to resist peer pressure and avoid drug experimentation.
Several secondary schools, including Abia: Girls Secondary Commercial School, Osusu Community Secondary school, Ngwa High School, Government Technical College Abayi Girls Secondary amongst others, embraced the campaign, demonstrating a united front against substance abuse.
The NDDC, NDLEA team, along with coordinators from MARG Education International Ltd, addressed the students at different schools with compelling insights into the dangers of drug abuse, emphasizing its detrimental effects on mental health, academic achievement, and overall well-being.
“It is deeply alarming to witness the rising cases of substance abuse among adolescents. This not only undermines their mental and physical health but also jeopardizes their academic futures and societal contributions,” the speakers cautioned.
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They strongly advocated for early prevention education as a frontline defense, urging students to embrace drug-free lifestyles and become champions of positive change in their communities.
The speakers further underscored that drug abuse is not merely an individual problem but a wider social challenge fueled by a network ranging from cultivators to traffickers, hence the necessity for a comprehensive, community-wide response. They encouraged vigilance, awareness of drug abuse indicators, and a collective commitment to breaking the cycle.
Schools’ representatives expressed deep appreciation to the NDDC, MARG Education International Ltd, and NDLEA, for spearheading such a transformative initiative. They lauded the campaign’s role in empowering young people to make informed decisions and resist negative peer influences.
This landmark event embodies a significant stride towards fostering sustained community engagement, enhancing drug prevention education, and ultimately promoting a healthier, drug-free generation.
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RNI empowerment: First Lady lifts 250 PWDs with N50m in Delta
Two hundred and fifty (250) Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in Delta State have benefitted from Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The RHI programme was launched simultaneously across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), marking a major national commitment to empower persons with disabilities.
The initiative was unveiled in line with the celebration of the 2025 International Day of Persons With Disabilities, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and support for individuals facing disabilities.
Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, the wife of the Delta State Governor and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation (YMCF), represented Senator Tinubu during the event in the state, overseeing the distribution of grants to beneficiaries.
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A total of 250 individuals with various forms of disabilities in Delta State received grants of N200,000 each, aimed at strengthening their small businesses and promoting financial independence.
Each participating state, along with the FCT and DEPOWA, received N50 million for further distribution to beneficiaries, ensuring that the initiative reaches many individuals in need.
This programme represents a crucial effort to empower people with disabilities, enhance their economic standing, and promote their integration into society.
In her national address, Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasised that Nigeria becomes stronger when every citizen is empowered to contribute meaningfully to national development.
She noted that the empowerment scheme aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes inclusive growth and social investment.
She stated that a total of 9,500 persons with disabilities across Nigeria will benefit from N1.9 billion in grants, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.
Delivering Senator Tinubu’s address in Asaba, Deaconess Oborevwori commended the First Lady’s compassion and dedication to uplifting vulnerable groups.
She described persons with disabilities as individuals “full of gifts and potential,” urging society to show greater love, understanding, and inclusiveness.
She encouraged beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity, noting that the support is intended to bring relief and enhance their livelihoods.
The RHI Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons With Disabilities has also been institutionalized as an annual initiative, to be celebrated every December 3 in line with the United Nations’ International Day of Persons With Disabilities.
As part of the Delta State rollout, Deaconess Oborevwori presented a wheelchair to one of the beneficiaries, a gesture warmly received by attendees.
An excited beneficiary, Mr Daniel Nwutu, expressed gratitude to Nigeria’s First Lady for launching this programme for persons in his category.
Mr Nwutu who is the recipient of the wheelchair, said that the grant and mobility aid would significantly improve his business, independence, and quality of life.
Others described the initiative as a transformative opportunity that brings hope, dignity, and encouragement to persons with disabilities across the state and Nigeria.
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850 technicians graduate from NNPC/Seplat JV training centre in 30 years
No fewer than 850 world-class technicians have graduated from the NNPC/Seplat JV training centre in Eket local government area of Akwa Ibom state in the past 30 years.
The last batch of forty-nine technicians in the G13 class graduated from the Centre in the areas of Applied Instrumentation and Controls Technology, Applied Electrical Maintenance and Technology, Applied Oil and Gas Technology and Applied Mechanical Maintenance Technology.
This took place on Tuesday as the centre celebrated 30 Years of Technical Training Excellence and 2 Million Incident-Free Offshore Man-Hours without a single recordable incident in its offshore operations.
The commemorative event, themed “From Roots to Results – Three Decades of Growth,” brought together industry leaders, community partners, government representatives, and families of the graduating apprentices.
In his keynote address, Roger Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Seplat Energy Plc, represented by Samson Ezugworie, Chief Operations Officer, Seplat Energy Plc welcomed guests and emphasized the significance of the moment.
He described the ceremony as “a celebration of a journey that began thirty years ago and has evolved into something exceptional,” maintaining that the theme of the event, “From Roots to Results – Three Decades of Growth,” perfectly reflects the transformational path that the TTC has traveled since its establishment.
Brown said that the TTC founded three decades ago was created with a visionary purpose “to build a world-class pipeline of indigenous technicians equipped to compete globally and to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s industrial and energy development. “
He said, “TTC was built on a bold belief, abelief that developing local talent would strengthen operational excellence and shape the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape. Those were our roots — and today, the results speak for themselves.”
He said that the achievements of the centre underscored the enduring impact its impact across the industry, including more than 850 technicians trained since inception, many of whom now hold leadership positions both within and outside Nigeria.
According to him, “TTC’s distinction as the world’s first City & Guilds Centre of Excellence is an infallible proof of the centre’s global reputation for high standards and rigorous training.
Addressing the graduands directly, the Brown congratulated them on achieving an important step in their professional journey. “This moment belongs to you. You have earned it through dedication and discipline. You are entering a world that is dynamic and competitive, but you are ready, equipped not only with technical expertise, but with the mindset and values that define excellence,” he said.
John Itsueli, General Manger, JV Operations, highlighted the TTC’s “humble beginning in a small office at the Qua Iboe Terminal”, and its growth into a world class institution, which now sees it “proudly recognnised as the first City and Guilds Centre of Excellence globally.”
He commended “the trainers, assessors, administrators and support teams whose tireless efforts have named these achievements possible.”
On his part, Goodluck Enimedoukienoniso, Best Graduating Student of the G13, expressed gratitude to all who made their journey possible to this point.
He described his position as an honour and privilege because of the standard set by those who graduated from the TCC before them.
Paying tribute to former students, he assured that the G13 would be building on the globally high standards the TCC has become famous for.
He said, “thank you for the foundation you laid. We will build on it. These past two years have changed us. We came here as eager trainees but stand here today as professionals; professionals forged by challenges.”
He assured that the G13 is ready to carry on, to join the workforce and make great impact because “We have been constructed, conscripted, pressure tested, culture tested and, dare I say, carved for purpose.”
In his closing remarks, Oladotun Isiaka, Managing Director, Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited, expressed delight at the growth and impact the TCC has made in the industry over the years, and expressed optimism that the G13 would be no exception.
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Calabar celebrates 20th anniversary of iconic carnival, as Governor lights Christmas
As the city of Calabar prepares to host the 20th edition of its famous and iconic street party known as the ‘Carnival Calabar and Festival,’ the Cross River State Government has assured global stars, cultural enthusiasts, creators, investors, and tourists who would be visiting the area of a memorable time throughout the event.
This assurance was given on Sunday, November 30, 2025, during the symbolic Christmas tree lighting at the Millennium Park by Governor Bassey Otu.
The ceremony, witnessed by four former Governors including Clement Ebiri, Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke, and Ben Ayade, officially marked the start of the festive season in the state and the month-long series of activities related to the annual carnival.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to improve on existing standards, Governor Otu said, “My team and I will continue to grow Cross River through human capital development, industrialisation, rural transformation, and tourism.”
A culture and tourism expert in the state, Joseph Nneji, disclosed that every arrangement to make this year’s edition of the annual carnival a truly historic and remarkable one had been put in place.
“Twenty years of the Carnival Calabar and festival is not just a celebration for Cross River State, but for Africa and the world.
“We invite everyone—governments, tourists, creatives, brands, and cultural institutions—to join us in commemorating two decades of excellence,” he said.
Considered Africa’s biggest street party, the Carnival Calabar and Festival has over the last two decades created its own distinct image and history, becoming one of the most anticipated events of each year during the process.
Starting out as a simple strategy by the state to promote tourism and reposition the city as a cultural hub, the month-long fiesta has since blossomed into a global entertainment spectacle that continues to attract millions of visitors—physical and online—edition after edition.
From Brazil to Colombia, France to Germany, South Africa to Ghana, and other parts of the world, the iconic carnival remains a big hit among fun lovers.
From its early days featuring community dance troupes and traditional masquerades, the carnival has expanded to include international music concerts, street parades by themed bands like Seagull, Passion 4, Bayside & Freedom, cultural exhibitions, bikers’ parades, and beauty pageants.
The annual event has also continued to spotlight Nigerian fashion designers, filmmakers, dancers, musicians, and cultural storytellers, making Calabar a December destination for the world.
This year’s edition is expected to feature international performance blocs from at least 10 countries, showcase the local culture to a global audience through special heritage displays, and bring together top global influencers, filmmakers, and tourism ambassadors.
In addition, the state aims to reestablish Calabar as West Africa’s tourism capital, bringing fresh opportunities for local businesses, artisans, performers, and investors through an investment summit aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s creative and hospitality sectors.
As the city prepares to host the world, the impact the Carnival Calabar and Festival has made over the last 20 years speaks for itself—millions of visits recorded, thousands of jobs created, and hundreds of new talented and constantly evolving creatives discovered and pushed to the limelight.
This year, the carnival not only promises to honour its past but also set a new vision for the next 20 years with the central goal of making Calabar the undisputed cultural capital of Africa.
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RNI: N/Delta youths hail Tinubu for appointing Okowa as South-South coordinator
The Coalition of Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders (CNDYS) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent appointment of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as the South-South Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).
The Convener of the coalition, Apostle Bodmas Kemepadei, in a statement on Wednesday, congratulated Senator Okowa on the fitting appointment.
He described the appointment as “a clear reflection of Senator Okowa’s distinguished leadership qualities, administrative maturity, and enduring commitment to the socio-economic upliftment of the South-South people.”
He noted that the RNI requires a leader with deep understanding of the region’s realities, saying that Okowa’s experience and calm, inclusive style of governance made him a fitting choice to drive programmes that will positively touch the lives of communities, especially the youths.
Apostle Kenepadei stated that CNDYS as a body dedicated to promoting youths advancement, peace-building, and equitable opportunities across the Niger Delta believed that this appointment presents a strategic opening for enhanced regional development and strengthened engagement between government structures and grassroots communities.
The Coalition’s Convener expressed confidence that under Senator Okowa’s coordination, the RHI would expand empowerment initiatives, deepen social welfare interventions, and promote sustainable development across the South-South region.
“Once again, the Coalition thanks Mr. President for this appointment and extends warm congratulations to His Excellency, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, and wishes him a successful, impactful tenure in this national assignment,” Kenepadei stated.
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NDDC, partners launch anti-drug crusade to safeguard N’Delta youths in P-Harcourt
In a bold and unwavering effort to tackle the mounting challenge of drug and substance abuse among the youths of Rivers State, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in strategic partnership with the Southern Base Development Initiative (SBDI), has embarked on a far-reaching, multi-dimensional sensitization campaign across the state.
This visionary campaign is in commemoration with the international day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, amplifying the global call to action against the devastating consequences of substance misuse.
Anchored by the powerful theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Chain, Say No to Drug Abuse,” the initiative seeks not simply to raise awareness but to instill lasting behavioral change and resilience among a vulnerable youth population grappling with the lure of drugs.
Harnessing the strength of a broad coalition comprising the NDDC, Southern Base Development Initiative, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Police Force, and other critical stakeholders, the campaign kicked off with a sensitization campaign at schools in Port Harcourt which includes; Community Secondary School Amadi-Ama, Community secondary school Nkpogu, Community secondary school Elekahia, government secondary school, Oginigba, government technical college, Port Harcourt amongst others; followed by an energetic road walk.
The march, spanning major landmarks from Mile One to Mile 3 in Port Harcourt and other areas, served as a highly visible platform for disseminating compelling anti-drug messages to the public.
Participants actively engaged community members through the distribution of educational flyers, visually impactful branded T-shirts, and caps, thereby fostering ongoing dialogues about the grave dangers of drug abuse and the societal costs it imposes.
However, the campaign’s scope extends well beyond mere visibility. Carefully crafted health talks, counseling forums, and peer-mentoring programs have been put in place, empowering young people with practical, evidence-based tools to resist peer pressure, dismantle prevalent myths surrounding substance use, and embrace healthier lifestyles grounded in positivity and awareness.
Leading figures from the NDLEA, alongside coordinators from Southern Base Development Initiative, delivered incisive lectures highlighting the far-reaching consequences of drug dependency.
These presentations underscored the devastating impact on mental health, physical well-being, academic progress, and the broader social fabric of communities, emphasizing that addiction is not an individual affliction but a collective menace.
The experts emphasised that combating substance abuse demands a comprehensive, systemic strategy that cuts across the drug supply chain—from cultivation and trafficking to consumption. Integral to this approach is community involvement. They called on residents to remain vigilant, nurture open channels of communication, and actively partner with law enforcement agencies to identify and dismantle drug networks operating within their neighborhoods.
School authorities in response, warmly expressed their profound appreciation to the NDDC and Southern Base Development Initiative Foundation for championing this transformative endeavor. They heralded the campaign as a vital platform for equipping youths with the knowledge, confidence, and resolve needed to reject destructive behaviors and make empowered, life-affirming decisions.
Importantly, this landmark campaign positions Rivers State as beacons of hope and resilience across the Niger Delta region, fostering an environment ripe for sustained community engagement, enhanced drug education, and robust youth empowerment programs.
The strategic alliance between the NDDC and Southern Base Development Initiative, stands as a sterling example of collaborative leadership harnessing expertise and grassroots mobilization to tackle complex societal challenges. Their partnership demonstrates that with unwavering commitment, targeted education, and holistic empowerment, a drug-free, thriving youth generation is an attainable goal.
Looking forward, this pioneering campaign establishes a replicable blueprint for continuous intervention initiatives aimed at nurturing safer, healthier, and more informed young citizens.
As the battle against drug abuse grows urgent, this initiative resonates as a clarion call, affirming that through collective action, enlightenment, and intentional empowerment, we can safeguard the future of our youths and build stronger, more resilient communities.
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Akwa Ibom denies alleged media repression
The Akwa Ibom State Government has dismissed allegations of media repression by Mr. Mojeed Misikilu, President of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria and Editor-in-Chief of Premium Times.
Misikilu had reportedly accused the state of blacklisting Governor Umo Eno and suppressing press freedom—claims the government describes as “false, unfounded, and inconsistent with reality.”
In a statement by Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, the government challenged the IPI to present evidence of any journalist arrested, detained, intimidated, or harassed on the orders of Governor Umo Eno or any state official.
It also denied ever shutting down or sanctioning any media organisation operating within Akwa Ibom.
According to the government, Eno has maintained a “distinctly media-friendly disposition” since assuming office, earning recognition from the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigeria Guild of Editors, and several media organizations for his openness to the press. The administration noted that no journalist has been detained or prosecuted under his watch, despite occasional critical reports.
The government also refuted claims linking alleged repression to the recent recall of Channels Television correspondent Chris Moffat and camera operator Kufre Ikpe.
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The statement described their redeployment as a routine administrative exercise common in both public and private organizations, and not an act of intimidation.
Highlighting what it described as its pro-media credentials, the government noted recent interventions, including the donation of 11 vehicles to the NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council and the completion of the Council’s auditorium. It added that 356 media and communication professionals currently serve in various government roles—reportedly the highest in any Nigerian state.
The statement criticised Misikilu for issuing what it called “damaging claims without investigation or evidence,” alleging bias against the administration.
It called on him to retract the report and issue a public apology, while urging the IPI to distance itself from his comments.
Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom, the government urged members of the public to disregard the allegations, stating that they do not reflect the situation in Akwa Ibom.