The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Okumagba commends Oborevwori’s bold, promising 2026 budget proposals

    Okumagba commends Oborevwori’s bold, promising 2026 budget proposals

    Prominent Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and former Commissioner of Finance, Olorogun Bernard Okumagba has described the 2026 budget proposals presented by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as bold, promising and designed to unlock the growth potential of Delta State.

    In a statement where he reviewed the highlights, Okumagba said he was delighted at the continued dedicated funding of infrastructure in the state, noting that under the Oborevwori administration, capital projects at 70 percent continue to take a huge chunk of budget allocation. 

    In his words: “The allocation of 70 percent of the ₦1.664 trillion Appropriation Bill to capital expenditure indicates continued commitment to fund the infrastructure developments currently underway in Delta State. The impact on economic activities in the state will evidently be huge, especially as these projects are delivered from 2026. Governor Oborevwor’s focus on delivering comprehensively on the MORE Agenda will definitely improve on the economy of the state and impact lives.

    ” Also commendable is the allocation to agriculture, a sector where the state has massive potential. The increased allocations to the economic and social sectors will undoubtedly drive more growth and development in Delta State.”

    The 2026 budget proposal of ₦1.664 trillion is an increase of ₦685 billion or 70 percent over that of 2025. Commenting on the ongoing development projects in the state, Okumagba said with the projects including the flyovers in Asaba, Agbor, Ughelli and Effurun; drainage systems in Warri–Uvwie and Asaba; and road rehabilitation across the state; “Gov Oborevwori is capturing critical needs in the state at this time.”

    Okumagba also commended the allocations to education and health. Other areas that attracted the attention of Olorogun Okumagba include the social intervention program D-Cares under which 307,600 beneficiaries and 10,000 widows will receive monthly stipends and free health insurance.

    On security, which had been a knotty issue in recent years, Okumagba commended the launch of a security trust fund and increased allocation to the sector which will provide for drone surveillance, border control, support for security services and strengthening vigilante networks. If followed through, Okumagba says, it should address the pockets of insecurity that need to be taken care of.

    Okumagba urged Gov Oborevwori to stay the course which he has charted since his election in 2023, noting that “In two years the impact of the administration is unfolding brightly.” He commended the governor’s vision to “build the Delta State of our dreams where no one is left behind.”

  • Calabar launches massive NDDC- led campaign against drug abuse among youths

    Calabar launches massive NDDC- led campaign against drug abuse among youths

    In a determined effort to stem the tide of drug and substance abuse among students and youths in Calabar, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in strategic partnership with Devongnosis Education Ltd, has intensified its commitment by organizing a high-impact sensitization rally across Calabar 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 behavioral change and resilience among young people who remain vulnerable to the pervasive influence of drugs. 

    The rally, themed; “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention, Break the Chain, Say No to Drug Abuse,” brought together stakeholders from across the community, including the NDDC Calabar state office led by the state Director, Chief Daniel Ajunwa PhD, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), NYSC members, the Police amongst others.

    The march covered key strategic locations, including Mary Slessor Road, Calabar Technical College, General Hospital, and the University of Calabar, ensuring that the message reached a broad and diverse audience. Participants actively engaged in distributing educational materials, including colorful banners, informative flyers, T-shirts, and caps, all designed to reinforce the campaign’s anti-drug message.

    Beyond the rally, the campaign incorporated vital health talks and counseling sessions aimed at equipping students with factual knowledge and practical tools to resist peer pressure and avoid drug experimentation. Several secondary schools, including Government Secondary School State Housing, West African People’s Institute (WAPI), Government Girls Secondary School Big-Qua, Government Secondary School Barrack Road, and Government Secondary School Akim-IBB way, among others, embraced the campaign, demonstrating a united front against substance abuse.

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    The event garnered robust participation from students, NDDC staff, youth corps members, security agencies, and community leaders, highlighting the collective responsibility and collaborative spirit needed to address this societal menace. 

    The Director Calabar state office, Chief Daniel Ajunwa, along with coordinators from Devongnosis Education Ltd, addressed the audience 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. 

    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.

    School representatives expressed deep appreciation to the NDDC and Devongnosis Education Ltd 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. 

    The partnership between the NDDC and Devongnosis Education Ltd has set a powerful example of how strategic collaboration can empower youths with the knowledge and resilience they need to flourish without reliance on harmful substances.

    Moving forward, this campaign lays the groundwork for ongoing initiatives aimed at nurturing a safer, stronger, and more enlightened youth populace across Calabar and beyond, demonstrating a resolute stand against the scourge of drug abuse in the Niger Delta region.

  • Sobotie, Ohwofa, Delta lawmakers attend surprise 68th birthday party for Emerhor

    Sobotie, Ohwofa, Delta lawmakers attend surprise 68th birthday party for Emerhor

    Dignitaries including the Delta chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Elder Omeni Sobotie; renowned businessman and former President of Urhobo Social Club, Lagos, Olorogun Simeon Ohwofa; and the members representing Ughelli North Constituency 1 & 11 at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Spencer Ohwofa and Hon. Matthew Omonade on Tuesday paid separate surprise birthday visits to boardroom tactician and founding leader of the Delta APC, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor.

    Also at Emerhor’s country home in Evwreni town to felicitate with him were former Delta Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Andrew Orugbo; Bomadi Council Chairman, Hon. Dagidi Rawlings Andaye; APC Chieftain, Elder Donatus Uba; Uvwie APC chieftain, Chief  Eric Egere; Hon. Monday Oyeghe, Mudiaga  Okorefe, Marcus Uba and others.

    Emerhor, a renowned businessman and the first politician to contest an election on the APC platform in Nigeria, during the 2013 Delta Central senatorial by-election, months after the party’s formation, clocked 68 on Tuesday.

    Emerhor Political Sons (EPS) also threw a surprise birthday party at the home of the celebrant to celebrate the 2015 governorship candidate of APC in Delta.

    Taking turns to speak at their visits, Sobotie, described Emerhor as a pride of the state for his achievements in the business community and his sacrifice in politics.

    Sobotie prayed for good health and a long life for Olorogun Emerhor, noting that the Delta APC founding leader deserves to be celebrated by all.

    Also speaking, the member representing Ughelli North Constituency 2, Hon. Omonade, praised Olorogun Emerhor for his commitment to the growth and development of APC in the state.

    Omonade said, “Our daddy (Emerhor) is someone who has inspired hope, commitment, love, and unwavering commitment to service. I came here today not because I have nothing to do. We took it as a duty to come and celebrate with our leader. Individually and collectively, he has impacted our lives.

    “I remember when I contested in 2023, he did something remarkable. People did not know he supported me with millions of naira, and I was shocked that people who were close to him were not even aware. That shows that he is someone who does good without announcing it. I am very grateful.

    “I pray for a long life and prosperity. We pray that in 10 and 20 years from now we will still come here to celebrate him.”

    In the same vein, the member representing Ughelli North Constituency 1, Mr Spencer Ohwofa, saluted the celebrant for his forthrightness and doggedness that resulted in the APC becoming the ruling party in the state.

    Ohwofa commended Emerhor for his selfless service to APC and humanity, stressing that he deserves all the accolades for the successes the party has recorded in the state.

    “The history of APC cannot be completely written without your name. You have been a father to all. Even when we go astray, you are always ready to receive us. It shows how kindhearted you are to us your children. You’re a good leader and father.

    “Delta State is now an APC state. If not for people like you, it would have been a different story, but God used you, and He will continue to use you to ensure that the development you yearn for in Delta State comes to pass. The Renewed Hope for More Agenda is already manifesting in Delta State”, Ohwofa noted.

    In his remark, Delta APC chieftain, Chief Okareme Maikpobi, called on Olorogun Emerhor to contest the Delta Central senatorial seat in the forthcoming 2027 election, noting that it is time to reward his selfless sacrifice to the party.

    Other speakers at the birthday party, including various APC pressure groups, especially Emerhor Political Sons and Emerhor Political Women Vanguard, also reechoed the call for Emerhor to seek an elective position to give the state quality representation.

    Olorogun Emerhor told his party chieftains of his desire to consider the request to contest the 2027 Delta Central Senate seat.

    He commended his political family and APC leaders for the surprise birthday in his honour, pledging to continue the development of APC and Delta State.

  • Sharta lauds Gov. Oborevwori, says he saw tomorrow

    Sharta lauds Gov. Oborevwori, says he saw tomorrow

    Hon. Benjamin Sharta, aka DJ Ben, the Executive Assistant on Community Development to Delta Governor of Delta State, has praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the visionary leader who anticipated the future.

    This commendation follows the remarkable developmental strides the governor has made in the state, which have transformed the lives of its citizens.

    In a chat with newsmen during a public function in Udu, Hon. Sharta articulated his admiration for Governor Oborevwori’s foresight. He said, “Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori is the man who saw tomorrow.

    He envisioned a future of peace, stability, equity, and unity for all Deltans long before many others even considered these possibilities. His commitment to these ideals was evident, though it was met with skepticism and criticism from various quarters.”

    He added: “Governor Oborevwori bravely made decisions that, at the time, felt controversial to some. Yet, he understood that true leadership requires courage and an unwavering belief in the potential for a better tomorrow. Those who labeled him as an opportunist were mistaken. His actions were driven by a profound sense of duty and a deep understanding of the needs of his people.”

    Sharta further elaborated on the implications of the governor’s strategic choices, stating, “Today, we find ourselves in a place of comfort and stability, wondering how different things could have been had these bold decisions not been made. Governor Oborevwori’s leadership reflects the adage that ‘God works in mysterious ways.’ He has indeed been a vessel of divine purpose, leading with wisdom to actualize a brighter future for all Deltans.”

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    The transformation in Delta State under Governor Oborevwori’s tenure is palpable. He has fostered an environment devoid of political strife and opposition, allowing citizens to coexist peacefully, regardless of past rivalries.

    Hon. Sharta emphasized the significance of this cultural shift: “We share laughter and camaraderie with former political opponents today, this unity is a testament to the governor’s courageous initiatives.”

    Moreover, the development of Delta State has not only been socio-political but also economic. Hon. Sharta highlighted that the state is now recognized for its political relevance and engagement on a broader scale. .

    “Our achievements in governance have elevated Delta State in the eyes of our neighbors and the nation. All this progress is a direct result of Governor Oborevwori’s foresight and resilience.” he added.

    Sharta further expressed hope and excitement for the future. “April 23rd 2025, will be remembered as a milestone in our journey towards a united and prosperous Delta State. Indeed, there is a man who saw tomorrow, and we are grateful for his visionary leadership.”

  • Dafinone condemns murder of APC vice-chairman, deans police probe

    Dafinone condemns murder of APC vice-chairman, deans police probe

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has condemned the killing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Vice Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Area, Mr. Ese Idisi, describing the act as “brutal, horrific, and a devastating loss to his family, our party, and Delta State.”

    In a statement on Monday, the Delta Central Senator called on the Police Force to “immediately launch a full-scale, transparent, and uncompromising investigation into this heinous crime.”

    Dafinone insisted that the perpetrators must not escape justice, stressing that “those behind the murder of Mr Idisi must be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted without delay. Justice must not only be served—it must be seen to be served.”

    He described the late Idisi as “a dedicated party man who served with loyalty, commitment, and an unwavering belief in democracy.”

    The senator urged APC members and residents of Ethiope East to remain calm and avoid reprisal attacks, warning that “violence will only deepen our wounds and distract us from the urgent task of ensuring justice for Mr Idisi.”

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    He appealed for faith in the security agencies and called for collective cooperation.

    Dafinone further called on community leaders, youths, and stakeholders to support investigators with useful information, noting that “security is a collective responsibility, and your cooperation may prove invaluable in bringing the culprits to justice and preventing further occurrences of such violence.”

    Extending condolences on behalf of his family and political associates, the senator described Idisi’s death as a “colossal loss” to the APC and the people of Ethiope East. He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that justice ultimately prevails.

    According to him: “I, am deeply shocked, sad and utterly condemn the brutal killing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ethiope East Local Government Area Vice Chairman, Mr Ese Idisi. This horrific act is not only a devastating loss to his family and our party but also to Delta State.
    “Mr Idisi was a dedicated party man who served with loyalty, commitment, and an unwavering belief in democracy.

    “I call on the Nigeria Police Force and all relevant security agencies to immediately launch a full-scale, transparent, and uncompromising investigation into this heinous crime. Those behind the murder of Mr Idisi must be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted without delay. Justice must not only be served—it must be seen to be served.

    “This is a moment that demands calm, restraint, and faith in the justice system. I urge all APC members, supporters, and residents of Ethiope East to avoid taking the law into their own hands. Violence will only deepen our wounds and distract us from the urgent task of ensuring justice for Mr Idisi. Let us allow the police and security agencies the space and cooperation needed to do their work effectively.

    “We also call on community leaders, youths, and stakeholders across Ethiope East to join hands with the authorities by providing useful information that can facilitate swift action. Security is a collective responsibility, and your cooperation may prove invaluable in bringing the culprits to justice and preventing further occurrences of such violence.

    “On behalf of my family and political associates, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mr Ese Idisi, the APC leadership in Delta State, and the people of Ethiope East. His death is a colossal loss, and we stand with all who mourn him. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may justice prevail.”

  • When jealousy fuels attacks against Hon. Ibori-Suenu

    When jealousy fuels attacks against Hon. Ibori-Suenu

    • By Gabriel Choba 

    The recent vitriolic attacks and campaign of calumny against Hon. (Mrs.) Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the member representing the Ethiope Federal Constituency reveals a deeper issue rooted in jealousy and fear of her escalating profile. 

    The unfounded claims of poor representation starkly contrast with the tremendous contributions Ibori-Suenu has made to her community and the nation at large.

    The misguided chorus of dissent from certain quarters of Ethiope East leadership, claiming that Ibori-Suenu is underperforming, stems not from any factual basis but from envy toward a trailblazing Niger Delta Amazon who has chosen to serve her people with dedication and purpose. It is not only unfair but also unbecoming of leaders to condemn her without just cause, especially when we consider what she has accomplished.

    Since entering the House of Representatives, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to empowerment, grassroots engagement, and people-centric initiatives. 

    Her record speaks for itself: diverse programs have positively impacted the lives of ordinary citizens in ways that many of her critics, during their time in office, could only dream of achieving. 

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    Her legislative efforts, including the Nigerian Customs Training College, Oghara (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2316) and the Nigerian Paramedic College, Isiokolo (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2317), are on the verge of fruition, significantly enhancing the educational infrastructure in the constituency. 

    This growth can only be viewed as a beacon of hope as she addresses pressing issues such as kidnapping and the clashes between herders and farmers.

    Moreover, the contrast becomes even more striking when we consider that many leaders now undermining Ibori-Suenu were once beneficiaries of Chief James Ibori’s mentorship at times when their own contributions were not proven. It is irony steeped in betrayal that those who rose to prominence through guidance would deny the same support to a capable and deserving daughter of the land.

    Substantial achievements of Ibori-Suenu, including youth and women empowerment programs, the installation of streetlights, and the initiation of road construction projects in Igun, have reiterated her commitment to the development of Ethiope Federal Constituency, a region that hasn’t experienced this scale of progress since its establishment. 

    The Ethiope Federal Constituency Forum has reportedly held frequent meetings focused largely on discussing Ibori-Suenu’s impact, including conversations around a failed recall attempt against her. Their destabilizing efforts against the APC represent a misguided attempt to undermine her contributions.

    Legislative responsibilities in today’s Green Chamber transcend mere visibility and photo opportunities; they hinge on delivering tangible benefits to constituents in the form of job creation, federal appointments, and project empowerment. 

    As Hon. Ibori-Suenu continues to make strides in her mission, it should serve as a wake-up call to the Ethiope Federal Constituency Forum that her (Ibori-Suenu) commitment remains unwavering despite their criticisms. 

    Her tenacity and determination to foster transformation in her constituency ought to stir reflection rather than resentment in those who fear her influence.

    Indeed, it is evident that her critics are suffering from “sleepless nights,” and as she works to innovate and uplift her constituency, the narrative is one of progress and hope, not envy and sabotage.

  • Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda driving development and peace in Niger Delta, says Otuaro

    Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda driving development and peace in Niger Delta, says Otuaro

    The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has said that President Bola Tinubu is strategically addressing development, economic growth, and sustainable peace in the Niger Delta.

    Otuaro made the remarks on Saturday during a town hall meeting with PAP stakeholders and Niger Deltans living in Lagos, hosted by prominent Niger Delta activist and founder of the Ijaw Monitoring Group, Chief Joseph Eva.

    Notable attendees included Prince Tonye Harry, Chairman of Ijaw National Congress, Lagos chapter; Prof. Dauphin Moro; Titus Posibi; Chief Amarian Benedicta; Chief Ogbogbo; Evangelist Agboro; Chief Emmanuel Fiawe; Robert Fiawe; Elder Regent Youmor; Mrs. RoseMary Aluko; and Owen Naphatin, Chairman of the IYC, Lagos chapter.

    In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Igoniko Oduma, Otuaro said President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding results in the Niger Delta, particularly in addressing development challenges, security, and sustainable peace.

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    He added that the President had restored stability in the region while fulfilling his campaign promises on human capacity development and infrastructural projects for the Niger Delta.

    Otuaro insisted that the solid support of the President and the National Security Adviser for the PAP was responsible for the expansion of the scholarship scheme and other milestone achievements the programme recorded in vocational training, peacebuilding, and stakeholder engagement.

    He told the stakeholders that while in-country scholarship deployment was 3800 in the 2024/2025 academic year, the figure increased to 3900 in 2025/2026, as well as foreign scholarships, which he said were about 200.

    He assured them that the PAP under his leadership would continue to do its best to ensure that more indigent youths were provided access to higher educational attainments with the requisite skills and knowledge for self-reliance and nation building.

    The PAP boss stressed that human resource development was pivotal to the socio-economic advancement and development of the region’s people as well as sustainable peace and security.

    While thanking the President for not holding back support for the PAP, he reassured the stakeholders that Tinubu would do much more for the region after his re-election in 2027, and urged them to reciprocate his large-heartedness.

    Otuaro further said, “One of the things you must know about His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is that he is very strategic and systematic in his approach to resolving issues of development, socio-economic growth, security, and sustainable peace in our region- the Niger Delta.

    “You all can see how Mr President’s deliberate approach is producing positive results in our region. There is no doubt that Mr President’s strategy is working for the Niger Delta.

    “This applies to the huge support that he has been giving to the Presidential Amnesty Programme under my leadership, for which we are very grateful.

    “Because of His Excellency’s massive backing, we have been able to expand the programme’s scholarship scheme, and it is our strong hope that more students from indigent backgrounds from impacted communities will benefit from the initiative. We will also continue to strengthen our policy of inclusivity.

    “I want to, again, thank His Excellency for finding me worthy of appointment; to take up the baton of leadership at the PAP with the help of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who has been very supportive of our initiatives since I assumed office.

    “I urge you and all the people of the Niger Delta to continue to support the administration of Mr President because we are confident that, judging from the many good things he is doing in our region, he will do even more for us after his reelection in 2027.”

    In his remarks, the host, Chief Joseph Eva, expressed confidence in the PAP Administrator’s leadership ability and commended him for the remarkable achievements the agency has recorded under him.

    “I am not surprised because I have known Dr Dennis Otuaro very closely for many years, and the values he stands for. He is a very focused person.

    “Indeed, Dr Otuaro has achieved a lot in human capital development, vocational skills, and the peacebuilding process for our region. We have confidence in his leadership, vision, and dedication to regional development,” Eva said.

    The high point of the town hall meeting was the conferment of the ‘Best Iconic Administrator Award’ on Otuaro by the stakeholders.

  • PIND, Ford Foundation canvass implementation of PIA-host community development trusts

    PIND, Ford Foundation canvass implementation of PIA-host community development trusts

    The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) and the Ford Foundation have concluded the Bridges Project with a high-level Stakeholders’ Dialogue Forum that brought together leaders from government, settlors, regulators, representatives of Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) and communities to reflect on lessons from four years of implementing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) — particularly its HCDT provisions, and to chart the way forward for sustainable host community development in Nigeria’s oil-rich region.

    Launched in 2023, the Bridges Project has served as a transformative platform for dialogue and collaboration among regulators, settlors, and host communities. 

    Through its Multi-Stakeholder Platform (MSP), the project strengthened transparency, built trust, and promoted shared accountability in the implementation of the PIA’s HCDT framework — a central mechanism of the PIA  designed to ensure that host communities benefit directly from extractive activities.

    The two-day close-out forum with the theme: “Four Years of the PIA: Lessons, Gains, and the Path Forward for Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs),” attracted over 150 participants, including representatives from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), South South Development Commission (SSDC), Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), state governments, development partners, settlors, civil society, and community leaders.

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    Sam Ogbemi Daibo, Executive Director of PIND Foundation, noted that the forum marks a pivotal step in consolidating lessons from the Bridges Project for future implementation. 

    “The Bridges Project has shown that the success of the PIA — and particularly the HCDT model, depends not just on compliance, but on collaboration, trust, and shared accountability. The lessons learned from this process provide a roadmap for the years ahead — guiding how we strengthen partnerships, deepen community engagement, and sustain the gains of host community development,” he said.

    The forum featured the presentation of the Bridges Project Status Report, highlighting significant progress in improving awareness of PIA provisions, strengthening stakeholder collaboration, and building new models for participatory governance.

    Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Commission’s Manager, Host Community Development Administration, Mrs. Omolade Awah, commended PIND and the Ford Foundation for fostering dialogue and evidence-based engagement that strengthen transparency and accountability under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). She noted that the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) framework — a core pillar of the PIA — is already yielding visible results across the Niger Delta, from infrastructure and human capital projects to renewed community trust and stability. Mrs. Awah reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that the HCDT structure continues to serve as a credible mechanism for sustainable development, peacebuilding, and shared prosperity in host communities.

    Dr. Linus Nkan, Commissioner, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Akwa Ibom State, emphasized that “the success of the HCDT implementation depends on shared accountability, trust, and continuous learning, and it should also be extended to government houses of all the Niger Delta states.

    As the Bridges Project closes, PIND and the Ford Foundation reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the gains of the Multi-Stakeholder Platform (MSP), supporting capacity building for HCDTs, and advancing a future where peace and prosperity in the Niger Delta are community-owned and sustained.

  • PTI launches FGN-TVET programme in Delta

    PTI launches FGN-TVET programme in Delta

    The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, has officially kicked off the federal government’s Technical Vocational Education and Training (FGN-TVET) Skills Training and National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Certification programme.

    The ceremony, which was held at the Institute’s main auditorium, drew the attendance of the Institute’s top management team, industry leaders, staff, students, and other stakeholders from the technical education sector.

    The event marked a major milestone in the Federal Government’s drive to strengthen Nigeria’s technical education and skill development framework.

    In his keynote address, Dr. Samuel Onoji, Principal and Chief Executive of the Institute, underscored the importance of hands-on technical training in today’s highly competitive global economy.

    “We are at a pivotal moment where technical skills are the lifeblood of the oil and gas sector, and our commitment at PTI is to ensure that our graduates are industry-ready,” he stated.

    He explained that the FGN-TVET Skills Training and NSQ Certification Programme would benefit thousands of young Nigerians by providing them with essential vocational and technical skills through a structured and standardised framework.

    The NSQ certification, he added, would serve as a reliable measure of competence, improving the employability and global competitiveness of participants.

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    Dr Onoji further stressed the need for technical and vocational education to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.

    “This initiative is crucial for equipping our youth with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market. The FGN-TVET programme aligns with our commitment to fostering a skilled workforce ready to meet both local and international demands,” he said.

    The FGN-TVET programme, launched by the Federal Government, is designed to upgrade the skills of Nigerian youths through specialised training across various fields of study while facilitating the attainment of National Skills Qualification certifications.

    The initiative complements PTI’s mission of advancing quality technical education and producing professionals capable of meeting the evolving needs of the oil and gas industry and other related sectors.

    Speaking further, Onoji highlighted the crucial collaboration between the school and its industry partners, noting that such partnerships would ensure that the training offered remains relevant and responsive to current market demands.

    “By working closely with industry stakeholders, we can ensure that our training is relevant and aligned with market needs,” he added.

    The flag-off ceremony featured live demonstrations of various skills training modules as well as inspiring testimonies from former PTI graduates who have benefited from the Institute’s vocational programmes.

    As the programme gets underway, PTI plans to collaborate closely with local businesses and community stakeholders to ensure that the training it provides meets the dynamic requirements of the job market.

    This initiative, according to Dr Onoji, not only strengthens PTI’s reputation as Nigeria’s leading centre for technical and vocational training but also represents a renewed national commitment to skill development, job creation, and economic growth.

    The ceremony also featured goodwill messages and presentations from key officials, including the Institute’s Registrar, Mr Isaac Fregen, who reaffirmed the government’s dedication to promoting vocational training and enhancing employability among young Nigerians.

    Participants were briefed on the wide range of training modules available, covering fields such as welding, instrumentation, mechanical maintenance, and other critical technical disciplines.

    Students and aspiring trainees in attendance expressed excitement about the programme, describing it as a life-changing opportunity to gain practical skills and certifications that would enhance their career prospects both locally and internationally.

  • Ogoni seeks declaration of armed herdsmen as terror organisation

    Ogoni seeks declaration of armed herdsmen as terror organisation

    Stakeholders under the auspices of Ogoni Business Owners in America (OBOA) have called for the declaration of armed herdsmen as a terrorist organisation.

    The president of OBOA and traditional ruler in Ogoniland, Chief Anthony Waadah, lamented that armed herdsmen and bandits were unleashing violence on rural communities, destroying farmlands, and killing innocent citizens across Nigeria.

    Waadah, in the statement tagged “Ken Saro-Wiwa Lives On: the unfinished struggle for justice, dignity, and accountability in Ogoniland,” emphasised that the Ogoni people would no longer fold their arms in the face of victimisation.

     He said, “Let it be known that Ogonis will lawfully defend themselves, their land, and their families with every legitimate means available. Self-defense is not rebellion; it is a universal human right.”

    The monarch called for proper clean-up of the polluted environment, remediation, and justice for the Ogoni people before the resumption of oil exploration in the area.

    Waadah warned against an attempt to resume the oil business in the area without fulfilling the conditions

    The monarch said, “Do not be in a hurry to reopen oil operations in Ogoniland. Do not impose policies or decisions upon a people still bleeding from the wounds of environmental destruction and injustice,” he cautioned.

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    “First, clean the land, account for how the one billion dollars and the missing three hundred million dollars were spent. Third, rebuild the trust that has been destroyed for decades. Our land is not for sale, our conscience is not for rent, and our heritage is not negotiable”.

    Waadah said that despite $1bn spent so far, the Ogoni environment had not been properly cleaned.

    He said, “If you walk through Ogoniland today, it does not look like a place where such a humongous amount of money has been spent. The water remains polluted, the soil is poisoned, the air is toxic, and our people continue to die of preventable diseases.”

    He asked the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) to remember the vision of Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni struggle and demanded accountability and transparency in its operations.

    He called for an investigation into the alleged disappearance of an additional $300million from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

    He also used the platform to call for educational and developmental reforms in Ogoniland and urged the Federal Government to establish a Federal Government College in Ogoni to complement the Federal University of Education.

     “The future of Ogoni cannot be built on oil pipelines alone; it must be built on knowledge, skills, and opportunity,” he said.