The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Bayelsa community protests alleged marginalisation by oil firms

    Bayelsa community protests alleged marginalisation by oil firms

    …calls on Fed Govt, Bayelsa govt to intervene

    Thousands of residents from the oil-rich Egbemo Angalabiri community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State staged a peaceful protest on Thursday, accusing Renaissance Africa Energy Company and Oando Plc of marginalisation and neglect.

    The demonstrators, comprising youths, elders, and women from the 14-village community, marched to the premises of the two oil firms to voice their grievances, alleging the companies have failed to provide employment opportunities and basic infrastructure despite operating over 100 oil wells and three flow stations in the area.

    Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the protesters called on the Federal Government and the Bayelsa State Government to intervene and compel the firms to comply with Nigeria’s Local Content Act by hiring qualified professionals and awarding contracts to indigenes of the host community.

    Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Tarakiri Clan, Engr. Lokiri Lawrence, who led the protest, told journalists that the community has endured years of neglect and economic exclusion by the oil firms.

    “In the past, they claimed our youths were not qualified, but now we have graduates in engineering, marine, geology, law and other relevant fields. Yet, they have refused to employ them,” Lawrence said.

    He added that Egbemo Angalabiri youths also own equipment and marine rentals suitable for oil exploration activities, but the companies have continued to contract such services to outsiders.

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    “The youths are jobless, our women are hungry, there’s no pipeborne water, no hospital, and no electricity. Yet, we host major oil operations. We are calling for immediate redress,” he stated.

    Barrister Benneth Joseph Ebikon, a human rights activist and spokesperson for the protesting youths, accused the companies of violating the Nigerian Constitution, the Local Content Act, and provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by ignoring the welfare of their host communities.

    “Since Renaissance Africa Energy and Oando Plc took over operations from SPDC and Agip, they have failed to engage the community. The Local Content Act mandates that unskilled jobs and at least 50% of semi-skilled roles in oil operations should go to locals, while 10% of skilled jobs must be allocated to community members. This is not being observed,” Ebikon said.

    Other community leaders, Mr. Noro Raphael and Mr. Benjamin Bide, stressed that the protest was peaceful and aimed at initiating dialogue with the oil firms. They urged President Bola Tinubu and the relevant authorities to step in and ensure justice is done.

    “We are not demanding charity. We want to work. Our professionals should be employed, and others should be given opportunities to learn and earn. We seek peace, not conflict. That is why we chose a peaceful protest,” they said.

    Repeated efforts to obtain official responses from Renaissance Africa Energy Company and Oando Plc were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

  • Oborevwori’s mid term performance impactful, says Okumagba

    Oborevwori’s mid term performance impactful, says Okumagba

    Prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State Olorogun Bernard Okumagba has applauded the first two years of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration as “impactful”, adding that it “evokes signs of better things to come.”

    In a statement congratulating the Governor on his second year anniversary, the former Commissioner of Finance said: “His Excellency, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has changed the landscape of Delta State with roads, bridges and investments in other infrastructure across the state. 

    “I am particularly pleased with his work especially in Warri, Uvwie and environs given the outstanding infrastructural projects such as the bridges that he has embarked on, which together upon completion will change the aesthetics and address traffic congestion in the area.” 

    He commended the Governor governor for “walking the talk of his MORE agenda by doing more in several sectors and giving Deltans across the state hope of more economic and social progress.” 

    Okumagba expressed confidence in Oborevwori to deliver on the people’s expectations and advised him not to rest on his oars but continue with the fervour with which he commenced his administration 2 years ago. 

    He commended the Governor’s efforts at attracting investment and providing jobs for young Deltans. 

    Emphasising the need to build structures that stimulate job creation, Okumagba said the government’s efforts at skills development and credit support were commendable and needs to be scaled up to an integrated plan that engages local and foreign investors for an overall massive impact on jobs to grow the economy of Delta State.

    He added that attention should be paid to attracting new investments especially in manufacturing and processing. “Given our huge natural resources, we can take advantage of the improvement in infrastructure to make Delta the economic production hub of Nigeria,” Olorogun Okumagba stated.

    Okumagba urged all Deltans to rally behind Governor Oborevwori and work together towards building a stronger, more united, and more prosperous Delta State.

  • Children day: NDDC says investment in Niger Delta children is its greatest legacy in 25 years

    Children day: NDDC says investment in Niger Delta children is its greatest legacy in 25 years

    Twenty-five years after its establishment, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has declared that its most significant legacy is securing the future of children in the region through sustained investment in education, socio-economic growth, and infrastructure.

    The Commission made this known during a colourful Children’s Day celebration held in Warri, Delta State, in partnership with the Indigo Bloom Health and Empowerment Foundation.

    According to the NDDC, the event highlighted its enduring commitment to youth empowerment and the development of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.

    Speaking at the occasion, Emavwoxia Oghenekohwo Irene, Head of Environment, Health, and Social Services (EHSS) at the NDDC Delta State office, emphasized the Commission’s belief that true development begins with investing in children.

    “At NDDC, we believe that children are not just our future—they are the reason for every road we construct, every school we build, and every healthcare facility we upgrade. As we celebrate 25 years of service, we are more determined than ever to help our children grow in a world that supports and encourages their dreams.”

    The day was marked by a series of activities promoting education, creativity, and social inclusion. A key highlight was the “Game of Intelligence” competition, where 11-year-old Praise Ogaga of Donnish International School emerged as the winner, displaying brilliance and confidence beyond his age.

    Jennifer Nnorom, a consultant with Indigo Bloom Foundation, hailed the collaboration with NDDC as instrumental to the success of the event.

    “This celebration was brought to life through the unwavering support of NDDC. Their belief in the power of children to shape the future of the Niger Delta cannot be overstated. With their help, we delivered mentorship, opportunity, and vision.”

    For many of the pupils and parents in attendance, the event went beyond entertainment. It served as an affirmation that education, not shortcuts, is the way forward.

    Read Also: World Children Day: UNICEF condemns discrimination against children

    Hon. Efeh Evelyn, Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who also is one of the organizers of the program, addressed the popular but troubling notion among some youths that “school is a scam” and strongly disagreed with it.

    “If school was truly a scam, none of us would be working at NDDC today. I’m here because I went to school. These children must understand that education is still the key,” she said.

    A parent, Albert Abiye Sibi who attended the event with his child, commended the NDDC for what he called “a job well done.” He urged the Commission to sustain the effort, adding that children must be taught that success comes through education, not internet fraud.

    “They should know that Yahoo is not the way. Education remains the best foundation,” he said.

    With 25 years behind it, the NDDC used the celebration to send a clear message: Infrastructure is important, but the real foundation for a better Niger Delta lies in the minds and futures of its children.

  • Groups hail Minister for interpreting Tinubu’s agenda in innovation science, technology

    Groups hail Minister for interpreting Tinubu’s agenda in innovation science, technology

    Interest groups in the Southeast and  Southsouth have praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its massive investments in science, technology and innovation.

    The Southern Youths Development Forum, Young Entrepreneurs in Nigeria and Igbo in Diaspora stated this in a joint statement on Tuesday said such investments would create jobs, ginger the economy and set Nigeria on the path of technological advancement.

    The statement by Bassey James of Southern Youths Development Forum and Emeka Obielom for Igbo in Diaspora also hailed the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Uche Nnaji Nwakabie for helping the administration inteprete it’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the sector.

    According to the statement, Nwakabie has used the ministry to drive the federal government’s vision by building bridges between Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and global centers of excellence.

    The statement reads in parts: “The Honourable Minister is intentionally and commitedly devoted to interpreting the vision and agenda of the Tinubu administration in the areas of innovation, science and technology.

    “His visits and partnership with global centres of excellence such as the Siemens Innovation Center in UAE, promotion of research and support for creativity have marked him as the right man for the job.

    “The Minister’s engagements are focused on strategic opportunities in Smart Technologies, Hydrogen and Carbon Technologies, AI-Enabled Systems, and Human Capital Development.

    Read Also: Tinubu fulfills pledge as GEIL completes Ogoni oil terminal

    “These critical areas align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for sustainable economic growth and innovation-driven prosperity”.

    “He has gone further in exploring advanced research at Khalifa University’s cutting-edge laboratories, which will position Nigeria at the forefront of innovation on the African continent.

    “Besides he has secured global collaborations that will power Nigeria’s future, create jobs, and expand the frontiers of local technology development”.

    The groups commended upcoming African Raw Materials Summit, led by Prof. Nnanyelugo Martins Ikemounso, DG/CEO of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, with the support of the Ministry of Innovation Science and Technology.

    The statement added that the summit will foster local value addition and stimulate essential policy reforms. 

    “One such initiative is the proposed mandate for at least 30% raw material optimization before export, a step that can significantly enhance local economies.

    “This summit presents a valuable platform to raise awareness and inspire collaborative efforts across the continent. By promoting constructive discussions and actionable strategies, Africa has the potential to truly harness its resources for the benefit of its people and future generations”.

  • New shopping plaza dedicated in memory of late Gbagi in Delta

    New shopping plaza dedicated in memory of late Gbagi in Delta

    A new shopping plaza has been dedicated to God in honour of the late former Minister of Education (State), Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, by his son, Olorogun Emuoboh Gbagi.

    The dedication ceremony, which took place at Ugbolokposo Junction in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, was attended by notable figures, including HRM Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II, Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, and Archbishop God-Dowell Oyibo Avwomakpa, General Overseer of Christ Missionary Crusaders Church, among others.

    Speaking during the ceremony, Olorogun Emuoboh Gbagi expressed deep respect and admiration for his father. 

    He noted Gbagi was, until his death, a business mogul, lawyer, industrialist and politician who owned numerous shopping plazas across the globe.

    Emuoboh emphasised that he is dedicated to carrying forward his father’s legacy and ideals, stating, “In honoring my father’s memory, I commit myself to furthering his vision and ensuring that his contributions to society are never forgotten. 

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    “I believe that this plaza will serve not only as a place of business but also as a symbol of his enduring spirit.”

    HRM Matthew Ediri Egbi, Owahwa II, Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, and Archbishop God-Dowell Oyibo Avwomakpa, in their speeches, extolled the virtues of the late Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi. 

    They acknowledged his significant impact on society and commended Olorogun Emuoboh Gbagi for embodying his values and principles.

    According to them: “Your father was not only a leader in business and politics but also a great humanitarian who cared deeply for the welfare of his people. 

    “It is commendable that you have chosen to continue his legacy of service, integrity, and generosity.”

    The dignitaries also praised Olorogun Emuoboh Gbagi’s decision to dedicate the plaza to God, highlighting the importance of faith and gratitude in his endeavor. 

    They cautioned against the temptations that can accompany wealth, stating that many heirs may have chosen a different route but Chief Emuoboh Gbagi has shown remarkable integrity.

    “In a world where many would sell out their family legacies for personal gain, you have chosen to honor your father’s memory by dedicating this plaza to the service of others—a true testament to your character and his upbringing.”

  • Allegations against Amnesty Coordinator false, says group

    Allegations against Amnesty Coordinator false, says group

    The allegation that the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dennis Otuaro is orchestrating troubles in the Niger Delta has been described as false and unsubstantiated. 

    An organisation, the Warri Media Group, in a recent statement signed by the quartet of Alex Shola Omaretsesione, Lily-white O. Esigbone,  Apoh and Tosan Osandatuwa alleged that Otuaro, an appointee of President Bola Tinubu, is responsible for undermining peace efforts in the Niger Delta region.

    The group also claimed that Otuaro teamed up with others to remove Edith Eyesan as the Executive Vice President, Upstream, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.). 

    However, in a statement by Eregbene Pascal, spokesman of the Niger Delta Rebirth Organisation, and made available to the press on Thursday, the organization described these allegations as misleading and baseless. 

    “Why we are not unmindful of the shenanigans of those who are jolted by the performance of Mr. Otuaro since his appointment to spearhead the all-important intervention to rectify the mistakes of the past, we like to say that the issue of development shouldn’t be ethnicised. Ordinarily, we would not have bothered to reply to these jesters but for record purposes. 

    “Saying that Mr. Otuaro has been working tirelessly to achieve the mandate of peace and stability in the Niger Delta region is akin to praising someone for what he is expected to do. To every peace-loving individual, the issue of joining the Ijaw nation to celebrate the Isaac Boro day should be seen with a spectacle of peace building and not injurious to anyone. In fact, the mandate of the PAP includes peace building among communities in the Niger Delta,” the statement reads.

    The group also maintained that attempts to bring the country’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, into the matter smacks of hypocrisy and an attempt to gain undue sympathy. 

    “We make bold to say that Mr. Otuaro, together with others, supported the aspiration of President Bola Tinubu and would never attempt to do anything to tarnish the image of the administration.  All ethnic nationalities within the PAP are important and considered for the programme. Mr. Otuaro is committed to achieving the aims of PAP and has nothing to do with theIndependent National Electoral Commission’s delineation exercise in Warri.

    “Allegation that Mr. Otuaro teamed up with to remove Mrs. Edith E. Eyesan as the Executive Vice President, Upstream, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), is also unfounded. Mr. Otuaro’s sterling performance in the last one year has been termed one of the best years since the last 14 years of the creation of PAP.

    “Apart from reducing tension and conflicts in the region, he has continued to work closely with ex-agitators, community leaders, and government agencies so as to ensure that PAP beneficiaries receive their entitlements as and when due. Gone are the days of just stipend payment, beneficiaries now get real empowerment programmes via training, skills development, and business support to help ex-agitators fit back into the society. All these have led to improved security and business activities in the Niger Delta,” the statement added.

  • Ikpoba ward 4 APC excos, members reaffirm support for Igbinovia

    Ikpoba ward 4 APC excos, members reaffirm support for Igbinovia

    The Ward Executives of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ikpoba Okha Ward 4 have reaffirmed support for the leader of the Ward, Hon. Felix Osaze Igbinovia.

    Igbinovia is also the Member representing Ikpoba Okha at the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC) Board.

    The ward executives, led by the Ward Chairman, Mr. Stanley Ekeoba, reiterated commitment to Igbinovia’s leadership, citing his exemplary performance, visionary leadership,and dedication to the development of Ikpoba Okha Ward 4 and the Entire local government.

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    They spoke during a meeting where they unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Hon. Igbinovia’s leadership.

    The Executives praised Igbinovia for his tireless efforts in promoting the interests of Ikpoba Okha Ward 4 and his commitment to the ideals of the APC.

    The Ward Chairman Ekeoba said: “We, the Ward Executives of APC in Ikpoba Okha Ward 4, are proud to reaffirm our support for our leader, Hon . Felix Osaze Igbinovia. His leadership has been a blessing to our Ward, and we are confident that he will continue to deliver on his promises.”

    They said the reaffirmation is a testament to Igbinovia’s popularity and acceptance among the party faithful in ward and Ikpoba Okha

  • Group commends NDDC’s achievements in human capital development

    Group commends NDDC’s achievements in human capital development

    The Centre for Cohesion and Development (CCD) has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its achievements in human capital development in the region.

    This position was part of a communique released after a one-day dialogue after a two-day workshop on consolidating efforts to boost human capital development in the Niger Delta.

    The group observed the need for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the development of the non-oil sector through the development of human capital

    The group further acknowledged the efforts of the NDDC led by the Managing Director, Dr. Sam Ogbuku through enhancing the knowledge, skills and capabilities of the young people in the region through multiple interventions, especially in education and health sectors. 

    CCD submitted that such a multifaceted approach will produce tangible results that will bring the expected impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Read Also: NDDC investing on human capacity development in line with Tinubu’s RHA, says Ogbuku

    However, the group observed the need to track progress achieved since the inception of this administration to ensure that improvements in all the relevant sectors of human capital are documented and properly communicated. 

    According to CCD, a lot has been achieved by NDDC and sister agencies in such critical areas but the absence of comprehension data may be part of the reasons for creating a different picture. 

    The group agreed to put together a research committee led by prominent scholars in the region to put together an independent and verifiable database that fully captures the state of human capital in the Niger Delta.

  • Archbishop Bassey hails Gov Otu for restoration of Cross River

    Archbishop Bassey hails Gov Otu for restoration of Cross River

    The Archbishop of Calabar and President of the Cross River State Christian Leaders Forum, Archbishop Josef Bassey, has described Governor Bassey Otu’s administration as “a divine project of restoration, quietly rewriting the story of a battered state.”

    In a statement on Monday, Bassey noted that Cross River State, once known for its excellence and beauty, had experienced years of desolation and moral decline. 

    However, he declared that the tide has turned dramatically under Governor Otu’s administration.

    “Two years ago, Cross River stood at the edge of despair. But today, under a leader who walks with God and works with vision, we are witnessing recovery, renewal, and a clear return to our prophetic path,” he said.

    Highlighting key achievements, the Archbishop commended Governor Otu’s silent but profound transformation of the state’s infrastructure, agricultural revival, educational reforms, security improvement,  and healthcare development.

    He praised the administration for carrying out critical road projects, attracting agricultural investment, and declaring free tuition in all public primary and secondary schools.

    The Governor’s commitment to moral and spiritual revival also received glowing acknowledgment. Archbishop Bassey said Governor Otu’s decision to rededicate the state to God and embrace its prophetic destiny is “one of the most important things any leader can do for a generation.”

     “He is not just rebuilding structures; he is restoring the soul of the state. Cross River is once again on God’s altar,” the Archbishop affirmed.

    Referring to the Governor as a “noiseless, compassionate achiever,” the cleric noted that while many expected loud announcements, Governor Otu chose deliberate action, delivering results without fanfare.

    “He met a state in ruins and has, through divine guidance and personal discipline, realigned it with purpose. His leadership is a miracle in motion,” he added.

    Looking ahead, Archbishop Bassey assured the governor of the continued prayers and intercessions of the Church while offering a fatherly charge for the journey ahead. He advised Governor Otu to approach the second half of his tenure with even greater urgency and unwavering focus on delivering legacy-defining results.

    > “This is not the time to slow down or be distracted by the politics of the next election cycle. Rather, it is the moment for a bold halftime re-evaluation—a time to take stock, refocus, and, if necessary, cleanse the ranks of non-performing team members,” he counseled.

    Read Also: Gov Otu, Shettima, Adesina ignite Cross River’s agro-industrial future

    He encouraged the Governor to deepen his commitment to excellence, embrace visionary innovation, and pursue landmark developmental strides that will not only transform Cross River State but place her as a reference point in the comity of Nigerian states.

     “The foundation has been laid. Now, the next two years must be marked by strategic boldness and landmark achievements. The glory days we prophesy are not in the distance—they are here, waiting to be birthed,” the Archbishop stated.

    Archbishop Bassey called on all Cross Riverians to unite in prayer and support for the governor as he continues to steer the state into her “greater glory days.”

    The statement concluded with a spiritual charge: “We rejoice today, not only because roads are being built and farms are producing, but because righteousness is being restored in our land. Truly, this is the Lord’s doing.”

    Governor Otu’s second anniversary celebration is expected to highlight both achievements and his vision for the future, with stakeholders across sectors commending his calm yet impactful style of governance.

  • Ibas unveils four-day leadership training for Rivers’ senior workers

    Ibas unveils four-day leadership training for Rivers’ senior workers

    The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd), has declared open a four-day leadership workshop for senior civil servants in the state.

     Ibas said the leadership training was designed to enhance productivity, efficiency, and service delivery across the state’s public sector.

    The event with a theme, Transformational Leadership Training Workshop for Sustainable Development, was organised by the Rivers State Government in partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

    It was organised for permanent secretaries, local government administrators, and directors from various ministries.

    In a statement signed by the Senior Special Advisor, Media, Rivers Government House, Hector Igbikiowubo, Iba emphasised the need for a modern, adaptive, and visionary public service capable of meeting rising citizen expectations amid rapid global changes.

    He said, “This training is designed to equip you with the tools and insights necessary to lead through complexity, champion reforms, strengthen local government autonomy, and deliver meaningful results to our communities,” he stated. “I urge you to embrace it fully with an open mind and a clear commitment to translate learning into action.”

    The administrator said that the workshop would go beyond improving systems, seeking to inspire a cultural shift within the public service, fostering excellence, accountability, and innovation.

    He said, “Only regular training can combat the ills of stagnancy, offering lifelong experiences that enable workers to adapt, grow, and ensure real transformation in governance.

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     “This administration is committed to building strong institutions, promoting efficiency, and fostering a results-driven public service. We are laying the foundation for a culture of good governance, one that will serve not just the present generation but also those to come.”

    In his remarks, the Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, described the workshop’s theme as timely, given the evolving demands of governance.

    He said, “This course is meticulously designed to bridge leadership gaps and equip participants with contemporary strategies for collaborative governance”.

     “We commend the Rivers State Government for its commitment to sustainable economic growth, infrastructural renewal, and social development, all of which require leadership excellence at all levels.”

    The Acting Head of Service, Dr. Iyingi Brown, urged participants to maximise the opportunity.

    Brown said, “This training is another step in empowering our workforce with the knowledge and vision needed to lead with integrity. Engage actively, share experiences, and apply these insights to drive measurable improvements in service delivery.”