The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Delta CP Adesola strengthens community policing with statewide familiarisation tour

    Delta CP Adesola strengthens community policing with statewide familiarisation tour

    The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, Aina Adesola, has stepped up his familiarisation tour across the state to enhance operational coordination and deepen community partnerships in policing.

    On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, CP Adesola visited the Ogwashi-Uku Area Command, engaging officers, men, and key stakeholders to reinforce collaboration and improve service delivery. 

    The tour continued on Thursday, January 29, 2026, with a similar engagement at the Agbor Area Command, where he reiterated the Command’s commitment to proactive, people-centred policing.

    A statement by the Delta State Police Command spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, noted that the Commissioner also paid courtesy visits to prominent traditional rulers in the Agbor axis, including His Royal Majesty Dr. Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi I, Dein of Agbor; His Royal Majesty Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II, Obi of Owa Kingdom; and the Obi of Umunede.

    During the interaction, the Dein of Agbor described the Nigeria Police Force as the “lifeboat of the nation,” emphasising the importance of unity, mutual respect, and shared responsibility in maintaining security. 

    He also highlighted concerns regarding police welfare, equipment shortages, and the rising menace of drug abuse in Agbor, which he identified as a major security challenge.

    The monarch urged sustained collaboration between the Police and the community, while cautioning the public against provoking officers lawfully performing their duties.

    Read Also: Ex-Niger Delta agitator urges Tinubu to intervene in rivers political crisis

    In his remarks, the Obi of Owa Kingdom emphasised that security is a shared responsibility, noting that unity among residents remains key to tackling drug-related crimes and other security challenges within the community.

    In his response, the Commissioner of Police stated that his policing philosophy is anchored on working closely with the people, noting that members of the community possess critical knowledge of the terrain and social structure of their localities, which is indispensable for effective policing, crime prevention, and sustainable security outcomes.

    He reaffirmed the Delta State Command’s unwavering commitment to inclusive, proactive, and community-oriented policing, while calling on residents to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information.

  • College matriculates 688 students

    College matriculates 688 students

    Delta State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli has matriculated 688 students for the 2025/2026 academic session. 

    Speaking at the event which marked the institution’s 30th matriculation, the Provost, Dr. (Mrs.) Eravweroso Odiete, advised the new students to embrace discipline, integrity, and compassion, reminding them that admission into the college is a privilege that must be sustained through hard work and obedience to rules.

    “From today, you are no longer applicants or hopeful candidates you are bonafide students of this institution.

    “You are training not just for jobs, but for professions that touch human lives directly. Your certificate may qualify you, but your conduct will define you,” she told the students.

    Mrs. Odiete described the ceremony as historic, being the first matriculation held under her leadership since her appointment last August. 

    The Provost expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for its continued support for education, health and manpower development.

    She appreciated the Governing Council, management, staff, parents, and guardians for their contributions to the institution.

  • Tompolo Foundation, others train 100 youths in ICT

    Tompolo Foundation, others train 100 youths in ICT

    To enhance the skills of young Niger Deltans for global competitiveness in the digital world, Tompolo foundation in partnership with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and PEB ICT Services have given laptops to 100 participants in a six-month Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) training organised in Delta state.

    The programme drew particpants from five ethnic nationalities, namely, Ijaw, Isoko, Itsekiri, Urhobo and Ndokwa.

    Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government, Managing Director of TSSNL and Chairman of the occasion, High Chief Kestin Pondi, said the programme was conceived to boost the capacity of Niger Deltans in digital skill.

    “The programme was designed with one clear objective: to empower our people, especially young Nigerians, with practical digital skills that are relevant in today’s world. Digital skills are no longer optional; they are essential for employment, entrepreneurship and global competitiveness.

    “Each participant is being provided with a laptop today. This is not merely a reward; it is a tool – a tool to practice, to work and to earn. By removing the barrier of access to basic ICT equipment, we are ensuring that the knowledge acquired here can be put to immediate and productive use.

    “This programme reflects the power of collaboration. I commend PEB ICT Services for their professionalism and quality delivery, and I acknowledge the Tompolo Foundation for its lasting commitment to human capital development. At Tantita, we remain firmly committed to initiatives that empower our teeming youth,” he said.

    On his part, Executive Secretary of the foundation, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, noted that equipping young Nigerians in digital knowledge would save our nation from employment jeopardy.

    “The world is evolving and the main thing now is digital knowledge, that has to do with Information, Communication and Technology, which without it, the issue of employment is in jeopardy. 

    “We decided to bring these youths together to equip them with knowledge so that either they use it for employment purposes or entrepreneurship. It is our desire to continue to equip youths with this digital knowledge because of its global relevance now,” Bebenimibo stated.

  • WACCIMA urges south-south stakeholders to push full operation of Delta Ports

    WACCIMA urges south-south stakeholders to push full operation of Delta Ports

    The Warri Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (WACCIMA) has called on stakeholders in the South-South region to stop compromising on issues affecting the full operation of Delta ports and to demand their optimal utilisation.

    Engr. Anthony Okoh, President of both the Delta Association of Chambers of Commerce (DACCIMA) and WACCIMA, made the call on Thursday during a visit by members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, to the chamber’s office in Effurun, Delta State.

    Okoh reiterated WACCIMA’s demand for the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to revive and fully operationalise the Delta ports, noting that functional ports would generate significant employment and economic benefits for residents of the region.

    “Our people in the South-South compromise the problem. It is an attitude issue. We need to change our mindset and stop compromising with the government,” he said.

    He linked the underperformance of the ports to the deteriorating road infrastructure across the southern region, explaining that existing roads were designed to accommodate a specific volume of heavy-duty traffic, which has since been exceeded.

    “When the pressure surpasses the estimated capacity, like a chain reaction, the roads give way,” he noted.

    Okoh advocated the development of an efficient railway system connecting Niger Delta states to major business corridors to reduce pressure on roads and improve trade logistics.

    “The trailers would not be overloading our roads, and this will ensure business connectivity,” he said.

    He also disclosed that repeated efforts by the organised private sector to meet with Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to discuss strategies for harnessing the state’s economic resources have so far been unsuccessful.

    “The work we do here is voluntary. We work, sacrificing our funds and time. Sometimes we hear our governor is in Brazil, China for business, but the organised private sector is not involved.”

    Read Also: Port shift: Operators, WACCIMA task NPA on decisive action

    “We are planning a programme to ensure our national body comes and liaises with the state government, so that they can echo our plans. We are lawful, we are not confrontational.

    “We have members who can, for example, go into big mechanised farming, but we don’t get the needed support from the government; we get it from other private sectors.

    “The government can act as insurance for this organised private sector,” posited.

    Recalling a plastic recycling project, which saw no fruition, an organisation presented to the state government years ago, he maintained there existed noble ideas to boost the state economy, but the “practicality” on the part of the government remained a problem.

    Earlier, Chairman of the Chapel, Comrade Okiemute Okpomor, who led other members of the NUJ on the visit, stressed the need to strengthen collaboration between both bodies so as to move the economy of the state forward.

  • Firm links service quality, location to Asaba hospitality growth

    Firm links service quality, location to Asaba hospitality growth

    The Chief Executive Officer of Ventura Hotel & Suites, Asaba, Prince Ebube Obi, has said quality service delivery and strategic location are key factors influencing the growth of the hospitality sector in Delta State’s capital.

    Obi said this while speaking on the operations of the hotel, noting that increased domestic travel and commercial activities have raised demand for accommodation close to transport infrastructure, particularly the Asaba International Airport.

    According to him, Ventura Hotel & Suites was established to provide accommodation for business and leisure travellers seeking proximity to the airport and ease of movement within the city. The hotel is located off Vanguard Avenue, directly opposite the Asaba International Airport.

    Obi said the facility offers standard lodging services, including en-suite rooms, internet access, steady power supply and workspaces, which he described as necessary for travellers managing short visits and tight schedules.

    Read Also: Cleric leads prayer at unveiling of Cubana Millennium City in Asaba

    He added that private investment in hospitality plays a role in supporting Asaba’s development as a commercial and administrative centre, noting that improved accommodation options help attract visitors and business activities.

    Obi said the management is focused on maintaining service standards and operational efficiency in response to changing travel patterns and expectations.

    Reservations and enquiries can be made via phone or WhatsApp on 0906 635 5984, or by email at reservation@venturasuites.com.

    With its blend of comfort, elegance and convenience, Ventura Hotel & Suites Asaba continues to set new standards in premium hospitality in the state.

  • PINL aligns operations with Fed Govt’s 2.5mbpd crude oil operations

    PINL aligns operations with Fed Govt’s 2.5mbpd crude oil operations

    A private security company, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, (PINL), has pledged to align its operations with the Federal Government’s vision of producing 2.5 million barrels of crude oil per day in 2026.

    Its General Manager, Dr Akpos Mezeh, spoke during a meeting with stakeholders from the Trans- Niger- Pipeline (TNP) host communities in Bayelsa State.

    He said the decision was part of the company’s strategic priorities for the year 2026, adding the company also aim to strengthen collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and other security agencies in achieving the target.

    The company also pledged to mediate in conflicts in all oil producing communities in the area to ensure that the targeted production output is met.

    He said, “As we move into 2026, PINL’s focus will be on aligning with the efforts of the Federal Government towards meeting the 2.5m bpd production target in 2026, sustaining zero infractions along the TNP cogence, strengthening collaboration with NNPCL, ONSA, and security agencies, mediating conflicts in Ogoniland and other oil producing communities with a view to resuming production”.

    Read Also: PINL kicks-off business support scheme for 2000 host community women

    The company also spoke of plans to expand its empowerment programme for women and youths of the host communities as well as deepening community awareness against activities of vandals.

    “Expanding women and youth empowerment programmes, deepening community intelligence and participation, advocating for improved government presence and infrastructural development in the oil and gas communities, upholding transparency, accountability, and consistent engagement,” he added.

    To ensure improved surveillance this year, the PINL official announced plans to conduct capacity-building training for Community-Based Contractors (CBSs) in the first quarter of 2026, focusing on incident reporting, event reporting, guard patrol procedures, surveillance and intelligence gathering.

    While thanking the communities for their efforts in 2025, Mezeh urged them to continue on the part of dialogue in resolving all issues.

    “Distinguished stakeholders, the story of the Trans Niger Pipeline is changing and you are the author of that change.

    What we protect together today determines what Nigeria earns tomorrow. Let us continue to choose dialogue over disruption, cooperation over conflict and shared prosperity over short-term gain,” he admonished.

    Chairman of Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr. Bubaraye Dakolo urged the Federal Government to consider development of the host communities to foster peace and curb vandalising in the region.

    He particularly noted the need to make petroleum products affordable for host communities to discourage the sale of adulterated products in the areas.

    “Let the NSA’s office hear that if the Federal Government provides petroleum products at affordable cost across the Niger Delta everything about vandalism ends because there will be no person to buy.

    “Educate the youths at levels and when there is no demand for it, supply will end. So educate the youths, engage the youths and make efforts towards providing petroleum products at the communities. How painful it is that you have oil wells, manifolds in your community and you still buy higher than those who don’t have? Why won’t the Federal Government know that that’s the cause of the problem of vandalism in the Niger Delta.

    “So while thanking you and your efforts in engaging us everytime and dialoguing for peace in the Niger Delta, let the Federal Government do the needful,” he urged.

    Also speaking, the Ibenanowei of Bomo Kingdom, Bayelsa State, HRM, Dr. Joshua Igbugburu called on community youths to continue in their resolve to protect the pipelines.

    The monarch also appreciated the company for uniting the communities through their regular engagements.

    “I call on all community leaders and youths to protect the pipelines and oil platforms in our communities at all times.

    “We need to maintain the continued peace in Bayelsa State and Niger Delta to attract more development to our communities.

    “PINL, thank you for your good work in Niger Delta by uniting the people in your area of operation,” he said.

    Comrade Robert Igali, Director-General, Bayelsa State Centre For Youths Development, said for there to be sustained peace along the TNP, youth development should not be overlooked.

    “While we seek peace and zero-tolerance for pipeline vandalism in Bayelsa State, it is important to note that the major actors are these youths who have decided to embrace peace and work with PINL. It is therefore very important that this year, if there will continue to be zero- infractions, they should not be ignored.”

  • Ogoni leaders urge Tinubu to sustain ongoing dialogue process

    Ogoni leaders urge Tinubu to sustain ongoing dialogue process

    • …warns against sabotage

    The leaders and people of Ogoniland have urged President Bola Tinubu to protect and sustain the ongoing dialogue process to restore peace to the region.

    They said for the first time in many years, there is genuine hope that justice, peace, and development may finally come to our land.

    The leaders said this under the auspices of Conscience of Ogoni People (COOP, formerly known as Ken Saro Wiwa Associates), a collective of concerned Ogoni sons and daughters committed to peace, justice, and long-term stability in Ogoniland and the Nigerian state,

    The group expressed strong support for the ongoing Federal Government-Ogoni dialogue and peace process currently being facilitated by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

    In a statement signed by its Leader and Spokesman, Chief Gani Topba, COOP, the leaders warned of any attempt to sabotage the process.

    The leaders urged Tinubu to call the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike to order over alleged attempts to sabotage the ongoing dialogue aimed at resolving the decades-long Ogoni crisis.

    According to the statement, the roots of the alleged sabotage lies in a long-standing compensation dispute involving the Ejama Ebubu community in Ogoni and the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), arising from environmental devastation claims successfully litigated and won by the community.

    The Ogoni leaders noted that during Wike’s tenure as governor, the Rivers State Government became deeply involved in the matter, which has remained controversial and unresolved in the court of public opinion.

    In a petition, the COOP urged Tinubu to mandate relevant security and intelligence agencies to investigate the allegations and prevent any actions capable of destabilising Rivers State.

    They noted that the current dialogue process is worth salvaging because it “has been widely welcomed by the generality of Ogoni people as the most sincere, inclusive, and structured effort ever, which seeks to achieve: lasting peace in Ogoni, environmental remediation and restoration, economic reintegration of Ogoni into the national and gas economy, and the safe and legitimate resumption of oil production in OML II, which would significantly boost national revenue, foreign exchange earnings, energy security, and employment.”

    “We also appeal to the President to ensure that no individual, regardless of status, is allowed to undermine national interest for personal or sectional gain, and to continue to support a transparent, inclusive, and lawful pathway to the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland, for the benefit of all Nigerians,” the statement said.

    COOP expressed confidence that President Tinubu’s intervention at this critical moment would not only safeguard peace in Ogoniland but also reaffirm the authority of the Nigerian state and the President’s commitment to justice, national unity, and economic recovery.

  • Rivers: NYCN hails Fubara for developmental strides

    Rivers: NYCN hails Fubara for developmental strides

    President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ambassador Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, on Wednesday commended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, for his dividends of democracy in the state.

    NYCN gave the commendation while felicitating with Fubara on the occasion of his birthday.

    According to a statement issued by Sukubo, “We extend warm felicitations to its distinguished Role Model and the charismatic Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on the occasion of his birthday.

    “This milestone is more than a celebration of another year; it is an opportunity to recognise a life of uncommon service, purposeful leadership, and enduring impact. Governor Fubara’s journey in public service reflects a deep commitment to national development, economic inclusion, and the overall progress of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.

    “Over the past two years, amid man-made political tensions in Rivers State, Governor Fubara has demonstrated exemplary leadership marked by patience, tolerance, accommodation, and peace-building.

    “Beyond these qualities, he has remained resolute and principled—a calm but determined fighter committed to delivering democratic dividends to the people. His leadership approach has strengthened institutions, preserved stability, and reinforced public confidence in governance”.

    Under his stewardship, the youth group said Rivers State has recorded notable progress across key sectors, adding that education has received renewed attention through improved policies and targeted investments aimed at building human capital.

    Sukubo said the health sector has benefited from strategic interventions designed to improve access and the quality of care.

    Read Also: South-south women’s group calls on National Assembly to intervene in Rivers political crisis

    “Agriculture has been strengthened through programmes that support farmers and enhance food security. Youth empowerment initiatives have expanded opportunities for skills acquisition, enterprise development, and employment, reflecting the Governor’s belief in young people as drivers of sustainable development.

    “Collectively, these efforts have contributed to a steady turnaround of the state’s economy, with visible benefits reaching communities across the local government areas.

    These achievements explain why Nigerian youths strongly identify with Governor Fubara’s leadership and vision. His inclusive governance style resonates with the aspirations of young Nigerians who desire fairness, opportunity, and progress.

    “The NYCN, therefore, affirms its unwavering support and solidarity with his administration as it continues to chart a path of development, unity, and shared prosperity.

    “As he marks this special day, the National Youth Council of Nigeria wishes His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, a happy birthday, along with prayers for continued good health, wisdom, divine guidance, and success in all his endeavours”, he added.

  • Ijaw, Isoko, Itsekiri to engage governor on funding

    Ijaw, Isoko, Itsekiri to engage governor on funding

    Elders and leaders of Ijaw, Isoko and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities in Delta South Senatorial District have reviewed their development strategy, with plans to engage the Delta State Government on issues affecting their communities.

    The leaders, under the auspices of the Ijaw, Isoko and Itsekiri Leaders’ Forum (3Is), are seeking dialogue with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to address concerns relating to infrastructural development, funding of intervention agencies and inclusive governance.

    A source familiar with discussions at a meeting held in Warri on Tuesday, said the elders agreed on the need to interface with the governor on challenges facing the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), the spread of major infrastructure projects across the state and improved communication between the government and community elders outside active partisan politics.

    Read Also: Police invite Itsekiri chiefs over ‘killing’

    According to the source, the forum observed that since the current administration, there had been limited public information on DESOPADEC’s budgetary operations, and the commission appeared to be suffering from timely release of funds “despite the more than triple increase of the monthly derivation money from FAAC.” 

  • Niger Delta Movement laments neglect of creek communities

    Niger Delta Movement laments neglect of creek communities

    The Creek to Creek Movement (CCM) has raised alarm over the worsening living conditions in Niger Delta creek communities following a fact-finding tour across several settlements in the region.

    Led by its Director-General, High Chief Mike Ayapaye, the team described the level of underdevelopment as alarming, blaming decades of neglect for the deepening hardship faced by residents and calling for urgent, coordinated intervention to reverse the trend.

    Ayapaye said the tour was aimed at exposing the harsh realities of life in the creeks and closing the information gap between forgotten riverine communities and relevant government ministries, departments and agencies.

    The team visited Bomadi General Hospital, Esenabe College, the Gbaregolor–Esanma Bridge project and Enekorogha community, among others. 

    Findings from the tour revealed crumbling infrastructure and basic service gaps, including poor road networks, dilapidated hospital facilities, lack of ambulances, absence of corps members’ lodges, limited job opportunities and recurring flooding due to the absence of canals and shoreline protection.

    According to Ayapaye, many creek communities remain without electricity and are still cut off from the national grid, a situation he described as unacceptable and inhumane.

    “It is heartbreaking that some communities have suffered in silence for so long that they now believe nothing will ever change,” he said. “We will not allow their voices to remain buried. We will speak for them until real and lasting change is achieved.”

    He said the Creek to Creek Movement is positioning itself as a bridge between government and neglected creek communities by documenting their needs and pushing them directly to decision-makers and development partners.

    “Our mission is clear: to expose what has been ignored, confront what has been abandoned and drive sustainable development in the creeks,” Ayapaye said, adding that the organization is open to partnerships with federal, state and local governments as well as development agencies.

    He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, women groups and all tiers of government to unite in addressing the long-standing challenges of creek communities and ensure inclusive development across the Niger Delta.

    ‎Reflecting on the assessments, Mr. Mathew Tamaratari Azazi, speaking for the Movement decried the “unacceptable level of neglect” in the communities, noting that basic amenities are luxury in the creeks. 

    According to Azazi “Under the leadership of High Chief (Dr.) Mike Ayapaye, we will engage every level of government and every development partner to ensure these stories lead to action, and not just kept in the archives.”

    ‎Responding on behalf of the Bomadi Community, Prince Kelvin Ayemi thanked members of the Creek to Creek Movement, saying the visit was reassuring that all hope was not yet lost for creek and riverine communities.