The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • ‘Niger Delta witnessing progress under President Tinubu’

    ‘Niger Delta witnessing progress under President Tinubu’

    The Niger Delta Revolutionary Crusaders (NDRC) has said the region is witnessing a new dawn of progress under President Bola Tinubu’s visionary leadership.

    The group said that the appointment of Dr. Dennis Otuaro, a grassroots mobiliser and development-focused leader, as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme was a masterstroke to consolidate peace, empower the people and secure the region for the All Progressives Congress (APC’s) future electoral success.

    Read Also: Industrialist hails Tinubu’s appointment of Sotinrin as BoA MD

    The group therefore said that the alleged coordinated attacks against Otuaro was a “sinister plot to weaken President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    In a statement signed by its High Command, Waibode Izon-Ebi, the group said: “The Niger Delta, a region historically manipulated by PDP, is now witnessing a new dawn of progress under President Tinubu’s visionary leadership.

  • Excitements as NDDC chair lifts Agbor hospital with ambulance, generator, others

    Excitements as NDDC chair lifts Agbor hospital with ambulance, generator, others

    The Agbor General Hospital in Delta state got a new lease of life as the Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC), on Monday donated an ambulance, 100KVA generator and 1450 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to it.

    The items were facilitated by the Commission’s Board Chairman, Barrister Chiedu Ebie who described the gesture as being in consonant with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Presenting the items to the hospital’s management, Ebie, expressed optimism that the donated ambulance will play very important role in improving patient’s transportation and significantly reducing response times during medical emergencies.

    According to him, procurement of the ambulance reflected his advocacy for the health sector and his deep commitment to creating a lasting, positive impact in Niger Delta.

    Ebie, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Community and Political Matters, Honourable J.C Aleh, added that the 100KVA generator will ensure that power supply will be more regular within the hospital community.

    To underscore the importance he attached to healthcare in Agbor, Ebie recalled that upon learning about the Agbor Tanker fire incident of January 6, 2025, he promptly left his office in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital and travelled down to Agbor to sympathise with victims in their various homes and in the hospitals.

    Ebie further recalls that it was in the course of giving medical care to the tanker fire victims that he discovered the parlous state of the Agbor General hospital and then used the opportunity to meet with the Medical Director and got first hand information about the pressing needs of the hospital.

    ‘’Because NDDC is an interventionist agency, we did not hesitate to intervene in things that are lacking in this hospital, particularly as it is in line with Mr President’s renewed hope initiatives,’’ he said.

    Read Also: NDDC mulls biennial  format as curtains draw on maiden NDSF

    He thanked President Tinubu, saying if not for him, it would have been difficult to make the donations and called on the hospital management to put the items into effective use and maintenance.

    Receiving the donations on behalf of the hospital, Dr. Stanley Nnoli, Zonal Medical Director, said it was an epochal in the life of the hospital noting that what they thought was impossible had finally become possible.

    The Zonal Medical Director further stated that “what is happening today is a practical demonstration of love that Barrister Chiedu Ebie has for the hospital.”

    He expressed immense gratitude to Ebie for the kind gesture, promising that the hospital will put the equipment into effective use.

    On his part, the chairman of Ika South Local Government Area, Hon. Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, who was represented by his Deputy, thanked the Chairman, Governing Board of NDDC and his team for the kind donation, praying for God’s blessings upon them.

    He also prayed for the hospital management, urging him to put the items into proper use.

    The NDDC delegation which was led by Hon. John Alley to represent the NDDC governing board Chairman include; Hon. Fred Ofume, Special Assistant to the Senate President and Former Chairman, Ika South Local Government Area, Hon. Hilary Agholor, Nwuzo-Yeni Dein of Agbor Kingdom.

    Others were Hon. Hilary Ibude, Ika South APC Chairman, Hon. Paul Ebede, Senatorial Secretary, Delta Unity Group (DUG), Hon. Evelyn Efe, Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Hon. Isaac Ulebor, Barrister Eugene Uzum, immediate Past Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta state on Orientation and Honourable Davidson Okafor, Ika South Secretary, Delta Unity Group (DUG).

  • Ganduje, Okpebholo, Ebie, others to welcome DUG members to APC

    Ganduje, Okpebholo, Ebie, others to welcome DUG members to APC

    The national chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Edo state governor, Monday Okpebholo and Chiedu Ebie, Chairman, Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), along other notable political figures in Delta state, are among the dignitaries expected to welcome members of the Delta Unity Group (DUG), to the ruling APC.

    According to the statement by Jerome-Mario Utomi, Ebie’s media aide, the event slated for this Saturday at the old Bendel Hotel, Boji Boji Owa, Agbor, Delta state, would have the National Chairman of the APC and Governor Okpebholo as special guests of honour.

    Described as a major political earthquake, the switch to the APC by the members of the DUG, watchers of Delta politics posit, will significantly alter the balance of party dominance in the state as the group is majorly peopled by hardcore Peoples Democratic Party, PDP grassroots politicians who have been the life wire of the party in Delta since the return of democracy 26 years ago.

    According to the statement, “The DUG, defection to APC is part of honest, strategic and concerted efforts by the Patriots in Delta to rescue the state from the harrowing and inept leadership of the PDP.”

    Read Also: Alausa, Ganduje, Marwa, others for LASU convocation

    “Ebie, who was suspended by the PDP for a trumpet anti-party activities, and afterward, in August 2023, joined the APC, party insiders and stakeholders stress, has engraved his name in the hearts of Deltans with life-changing projects.” 

    DUG, a PanDelta political association promoting unity and brotherliness within the political landscape of Delta State, has Ebie, a former Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education and Secretary to the State Government (SSG), respectively, as co-convener.

    Since 2023 when it was birthed, DUG has, through persistent promotion of objective inclusivity and participatory democracy, people focused leadership anchored on equity, justice, fairness and other collaborative efforts made great inroad in Delta state political landscape, and presently has in its kits well over 5,000 registered members in Ika Federal Constituency alone.

  • Pastor prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe @ 70

    Pastor prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe @ 70

    Pastor Prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe, erudite Scholar, Energy Expert and Entrepreneur, servant of God , is not new to excellence. You can say that by the grace of God, excellence has defined his life since his youth till now, a checkered career in the academia, business,  government, and  the church of God that has spanned 40 years.

    Born at Ibadan on the 2nd of April,1955, Prof Anthony Adegbulugbe whose parents hails from Ondo town in Ondo state had his secondary education at Loyola College where he passed with Distinction. He then moved on to the University of Ife now OAU where he studied Electrical / Electronic Engineering and he graduated with B.sc (Hon) in Electrical Engineering (First Class) with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.0 on a scale of 5.0 June 1976. For his postgraduate education, he attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, Mass: U.S.A.  and obtained a D.SC. in Nuclear Materials Engineering, minor program in Energy Planning and Management in June 1981. Other courses attended include Electric System Expansion Planning Course, Brookhaven National Laboratory, U.S.A -1982, Energy Planning and Management Course, Brookhaven National Laboratory, U.S.A – 1983, and International Human Resources Development Corporation, Boston Massachusetts–International Gas Business Management Certificate Program, 2006. Year

    HIS WORKING CAREER

    After his first job as Pupil Engineer, at NEPA now PHCN in 1976-1977, he moved over to the academic arena as Graduate Assistant, later Senior Research Lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University Center for Energy Research& Development from 1977 where he not only rose to become a Professor of Energy Economic and Planning but also became the Director / Chief Executive for a record of 13 years. He was a more sought-after Academic all over the world for his profound intellectual contributions in the area of Energy policy and planning and Climate change. He was on several national and international assignments. He was a member and Chairman Sub-Committee on Information Technology, Expert Group on Technology Transfer (EGTT), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).  Bonn, Germany, 2001-2004.Member, Scientific Advisory Panel, RISO National Laboratory, UNEP Collaborating Centre for Energy and Environment, Denmark, 2000-present.Lead Author; Special Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Report on CO2 Capture and Storage, WMO and UNEP, 2002-present.Coordinating Lead Author on Energy Supply, Fourth Technical Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), WMO and UNEP, 2004-present.Lead Author on Energy Efficiency, Third Technical Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), WMO and UNEP, 2000.Member, Energy Committee, World Federation of Engineering Organisation (WFEO).1990-1992.Member of Various Review Teams, GHG Inventory from the Energy Sector of USA, UK, Latvia, Ireland, Bulgaria, UNFCCC 2000-2003. Consultant, Energy Sector Management Programme (ESMAP) Study for Nigeria; World Bank 1993.  He also served as Consultant, Energy and Environment Interaction in Nigeria; African Development Bank, 1996,Project Coordinator, Energy Master-Plan for Development – Nigeria; EEC/EDF funded project, 1989-1993,Principal Investigator, Sectoral Perspective Studies on Energy and Hydrocarbon Resources; National Planning Commission, 1992,Consultant, Development of Forecasting Methodology for Petroleum Products; NNPC, 1988, Consultant, Energy Audit Study for Kaduna and Warri Refineries; NNPC, 1989, Principal Investigator, Assessment of Energy Issues and Strategic Agenda in West and Central Africa; World Energy Council, 1992,Principal Investigator, Long-Term Energy Scenario for Nigeria, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, California USA., 1990,Consultant, Nigeria First Communication to the UNFCCC; Federal Ministry of Environment, 1998-2000,Project Director, Greenhouse Gases Emission Reduction in Nigeria: He also served as  a Member, Expert Group on Technology transfer (EGTT), United National Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Bonn, Germany, 2001 – 2004, Member, Inter-Ministerial Committee for the Review of the Draft National Energy Policy 2002, Member, Ogun State Technical Committee on Oil, Energy and Mineral Resources 2003 –  2007, Member, Nigeria Delegation/Negotiation Team to Conference of the Parties (COP) 7, 8 & 9, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 1999-2002, Member, Technical Advisory Committee, Energy Commission of Nigeria 1992-2000, 2000-present, Member, Nigeria National Committee, World Energy Council from 1994.

    Prof. Adegbulugbe has also been involved in the development of universities at the highest governing level. He served as Member, Governing Council, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, 1997 – 1999, Member Governing Council of the University of Abuja 2012-2015, member Board of Trustees, Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Ikeji-Arakeji and Member Federal Government Visitation Panel to Federal Polytechnic, 2013. He is currently the third CHANCELLOR of Joseph Ayo Babalola University( JABU) , Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State.

    SERVICE TO HIS COUNTRY

    At a time the nation was frantically searching for solutions to challenges in the power sector, President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2005 appointed him as the Presidential Adviser and also Chairman, Gas to Power Project, a World Bank project designed to prepare a workable interface between the power and oil and gas sectors. The Obasanjo administration realized the need for the development of gas to drive the Power sector as a way of solving the Energy problem and Adegbulugbe came to the rescue with series of policy initiatives that would have made Gas available for the power turbines which Nigeria invested billions of dollars in bringing to Nigeria.

    In addition to his position as Special Adviser to the President, Prof. Adegbulugbe was from 2005-2007 a Member, Economic Management Team,  Alternate Chairman, Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Chairman, ECOWAS  Multi-sectoral Energy Access Committee.

    At a conference on Energy Access for ECOWAS in Gambia, he was elected as the Chairman, ECOWAS Regional Multi-sectorial Committee on Energy Access after a powerful presentation on how to empower the rural communities for economic development using small scale energy support through renewable energy. Perhaps it needs to the echoed at this stage his strident effort to bring back to life of the then moribund Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission which he saw as a veritable source of coordinating efforts to use nuclear reactors for power generation for the country. To him, as a Nuclear expert, Atomic Energy also offers a good source of power inspite of fears over its  possible  negative uses. He also led the Nigerian Delegation to the International Atomic Energy Agency conference in 2006 where Nigeria was accepted back into the fold.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates Adegbulugbe, Aluko, at 70

    A SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR-MATCHING THEORY WITH PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS

    A man always seeking for creative solutions to Nigeria’s challenges, Adegbulugbe was not satisfied as an academic professing theoretical solutions to the energy conundrum Nigeria found itself, so he sought for an opportunity where his ideas on climate change and zero gas flares in the oil and gas sector could be implemented. Providence brought him an opportunity through the decision of the Federal Government to implement a pilot project of the World Bank propelled small scale gas utilization project, where by Green Energy International Ltd, of which he was  prime mover was granted the Operatorship of the Otakikpo field in PML  11, based in Andoni in  River state, to practically implement a zero gas flare field whereby all products in the value chain particularly gas  will be utilized for gas to power and Liquified Petroleum Gas( LPG) otherwise known as cooking gas. The result of that vision is the recently commissioned First Modular LPG extraction Plant  and the 20 MW gas to power projects at Otakikpo field by the Minister of state for Petroleum Gas in March this year being managed by First Otakikpo Midstream Ltd ( FOML) The  Otakikpo field under 24 months was brought into production  and currently produces about 6000 barrels of oil per day, a feat which is a record in the industry.   That small asset is becoming a reference point in marginal field operations with its recently approved 1million capacity onshore terminal, 20,000 barrels per day flow station oil processing facility, and 20km export pipeline, among other projects.

    Other companies founded or cofounded by, Adegbulugbe includes, Allgrace Energy  Ltd, Tripple E system Associates Ltd, Heptagon Ventures Ltd, Amazing Grace Ltd., e.t.c.

    SERVICE IN THE LORD’S VINEYARD

    After his service to the nation, Prof. Adegbulugbe, for many years as a part time Pastor of the Christ Apostolic Church, has been engaged fully in the service of God as a Full-time Pastor in the Christ Apostolic Church in Abuja at the FCC DCC Headquarters before his present posting as the Pastor-in-Charge of C.A.C. All Saints’ Chapel, Abuja. Recently, Pastor Adegbulugbe was elevated to the position of Zonal  Superintendent  All Saints Zone of the church .  He again has been elevated this year  as the Chairman of All Saints District DCC to oversee about 5 Districts of the CAC in Medaiyese region. He sees service to God as his own thanksgiving for the amazing grace he has enjoyed from God Almighty. He has continued to use the pulpit as a platform to win souls for Christ through leadership by example and incisive sermons.

    HONOURS AND AWARDS

    Throughout his academic career, Anthony piled up several awards and distinction such as the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Faculty of Technology: Award for best student for his Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.0 on a scale of 5.0 –an all-time record at the Obafemi Awolowo University – 1976; OAU 40th Anniversary Special Alumni Merit Award 2003; Nigerian Society of Engineers; Presidential Special Merit Award – 1992; American Nuclear Society Student Conference Award for best Nuclear Materials Paper – 1980; American Nuclear Society Material Science and technology Division, Runner Up Award for Best Student Paper – 1981; Obafemi Awolowo University Faculty of Science, Distinguished Scientist Award – 2004. Remarkably in 2007, our honoree was acknowledged globally as a Contributor to Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC) Assessment Reports which won for IPCC, the 2007 Noble Peace Prize along with US Vice President Al Gore.. He was in 2023 awarded the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, for the university’s ‘award of excellence in research practice.’

    The prestigious award is only given to an alumnus of the University with an outstanding record of knowledge-based accomplishment at global and national levels. As part of the responsibility for Winning this award Adegbulugbe mentored 200 best students across all departments of the university and also served as the face of academic and research excellence for the institution in 2023-2024, Oil & Gas Man of the year 2024 by Africa Peace Magazine.UK, He bagged the Honorary Doctor of  Letters DLitt Degree of Afe Babalola University Ado Ekitti ( ABUAD) 2022 and Honorary Doctor of Energy, of his Alma Mater Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, 2024, amongst several other honors.

    CONCLUSION:…..HUMILITY PERSONIFIED

    One remarkable attribute attested attested by all is that, despite his strings of achievement in several areas of endeavor, Adegbulugbe exudes uncommon humility and friendliness which endears him to all cross section of the populace. This is apart from his eagerness to help people. His generosity and philanthropy is exceptional through various scholarships, financial and spiritual support & sponsorships of programs for the less privileged .

    President Tinubu’s Drive to Improve Nigerian Healthcare

  • International Group begs Tinubu on Rivers crisis

    International Group begs Tinubu on Rivers crisis

    An international group, Nigerians in Diaspora Movement for Democracy, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to revisit the declaration of Emergency Rule in Rivers State.

    The group expressed disgust over the suspension of the Governor, his Deputy, and House of Assembly for six months.

    In an open letter to President Tinubu co-signed Dr. Samson Idoko and Patriot John Andrew Onuh, its President and Secretary General, the group urged President Tinubu to revisit the decision to declare emergency rule in Rivers State and use legislative processes to stabilise the situation.

    They proposed measures such as compelling all parties concerned to implement strong deterrent elements and sanctions, including a ban on participating in political activities and/or holding public offices for at least ten years.

    The group emphasised if the current situation is not addressed, it could damage President Tinubu’s efforts and legacy, both past and future.

    The statement added: “We wish to passionately plead that democracy should be allowed to thrive and seen obviously to be thriving. We do not make this assertion lightly or base it on an assumption but on factual grounds.

    “There is clear derailment from what your Excellency stood and fought for from what is happening today. Your Excellency, with what has happened in Rivers State, it is potentially clear that democracy under your presidency is no longer thriving.

    Read Also: Navy uncovers illegal refining sites, seizes over 400,000 litres of stolen products in Niger Delta

    “A practice where an elected Governor, his Deputy and members of the State House of Assembly are suspended for six months does not represent what His Excellency stood for and fought so much for.

    “Your Excellency, the unequal disproportionate and excessive pressure placed on Rivers State at its jugular is affecting the entire democratic system in the whole country, democracy is in a state of asphyxia, losing air and if nothing is done in some few minutes, it will be suffocated to death.

    “If that happens, then the entire efforts of Mr. President both past and future would be dented in an ugly history, a crude democratic tragedy. Your Excellency cannot allow this to happen.

    “We, therefore, wish to call on Mr President to take a serious and urgent look at the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State to revise the decision and instead utilize legislative processes to stabilize the situation as well as ensure that there is no reversal of the ugly drift in Rivers State.

    “These legislative measures could be compelling for all parties concerned with strong deterrent elements and sanctions which will include a ban on participating in political activities and/or holding public offices for not less than ten years.

    “We are convinced that Your Excellency will heed this call and act expeditiously. Have the confidence of our unending patriotism Sir.”

  • Tax Reform, Regional Development Commission Bills best things to happen to Nigeria – Karimi

    Tax Reform, Regional Development Commission Bills best things to happen to Nigeria – Karimi

    Chairman of the Committee on Senate Services, Senator Sunday Karimi (Kogi West) has described the Tax Reform and  Regional Development Commission Bills as the best things to happen to Nigeria in present time.

    Karimi made the declaration when he appeared as a guest of TVC News programme: ” This Morning” at the weekend. 

    Responding to questions on the primary achievements of the 10th Senate, Karimi was resolute that the Upper Legislative Chamber has done well even though they are not excellent.

    Half-way mark into the current four-year legislative tenure, which commenced in June, 2023, the lawmaker noted: “We have done good—I am not saying we are excellent. Our objective from the start is to engage with the executive to achieve great things for our nation and not to be confrontational”. 

    This approach, he enthused, has been an “interesting engagement” because President Bola Tinubu, Vice-president Kashim Shettima and the First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu at various times were members of the Upper Legislative Chamber.

    Read Also: Joy Raimi wins Miss World Nigeria 2025

    Responding to the level of cooperation between the legislative and executive arms, why the latter seems to be so comfortable and why it never failed to always get what it asked for, Karimi said:”Our people are our constituents. We are representing the grassroots, we are representing the masses of this country; so when I say our people, these are those I am referring to, people in the upper class are also our people but we care more for the grassroots. So, our aim from the beginning is how we can work with the executive to get the best for our people. I wouldn’t say they’ve always gotten what they asked for.

    ” Right from the ministerial screening, the President brought a list of ministers. We screened all of them and we rejected some despite the fact that they are nominees of Mr President. Those that are talking about “rubber stamp”, they don’t know what they are saying. We’ve had issues of not being on the same page (with the executive), but we negotiate the middle-term approach. Let’s talk about the last budget, the Ministry of Budget and National Planning gave the president an impression that all these issues of constituency projects are a waste, that the president should do away with it. Let me tell you— constituency project is the best way to reach the grassroots. They don’t give us this money, they only give us the opportunity of suggesting projects into the budget. 

    “The President wanted to stop it totally based on the advice given to him, but the leadership of the National Assembly negotiated with him.  We told him that, ‘Mr President, if you are going to stop (constituency projects), you are going to be at Loggerheads with the NASS’. Because this is the only way that we are able to reach out to our people, in terms of giving them dividends of democracy, in terms of (people oriented) projects, in terms of infrastructure. For more than two weeks, the president was (adamant), but at the end of the day, he understood and allowed constituency project to remain. It has been there since 2000”.

    The lawmaker admitted to the fact that Nigerians generally hold a negative perception of the activities of the national assembly and the legislature as a whole, including misunderstanding the importance of constituency project. 

    He stressed the importance of constituency projects in the legislative business with reference to the construction of new 75 solar-powered boreholes and the rehabilitation of another 60 moribund water schemes across communities in Kogi West— valued at N1. 24 billion, which he facilitated.

    He said: “Let me talk about my constituency in terms of constituency projects; ask my people; what constituency project has brought to them. I can name it. When I was in the House of Representatives, my people called me Mr Water. I  made sure every community in my federal constituency had access to portable water, I made sure there is one water supply system in every community, it can be motorised or solar powered boreholes, and I am continuing that now. Communities that have poor power supply, I gave them transformers and solar powered street lights. Talking about my own personal projects, I am doing a yearly (N100m) bursary awards (of N100,000 each to 1000 students) in public tertiary institutions across seven  local  governments in Kogi West Senatorial District

    “My colleagues are reaching out to their constituencies in different ways because you cannot know the problems of our people more than us; because we are the ones representing the grassroots. Some are doing roads. Part of my project this year, I put money (in the budget) for federal roads; some of these road (contracts) were awarded years ago, and they are not properly funded. I put N2bn (for the construction of) the worst parts of these roads and i put it under the Federal Ministry of Works and the Minister is cooperating. In fact, the (contractors are going to mobilize to the site) in the next one, two, three weeks”.

    Speaking generally on the economy, Karimi said the Tax Reform Bill remains one of the best things to happen to the country. The problem that was created when this tax reforms bill was brought, you will think Nigeria was about to fall (apart). Even governors of APC states, they condemned it. The President was accused of wanting to satisfy Lagos and all that. I’m a member of the Finance Committee of the Senate. 

    “The tax reforms bill is one of the best things that has ever happened to this nation. You know what it is going to bring to us? We are going to have states competing with each other on revenue generation because the more revenue you are able to generate,  the more that will accrue to you. 

    “We are not just going to have the situation where some states will just sit down and be expecting manna from the centre.  No government, before now, has been able to thinker with the tax reforms to encourage the states in the federating units to compete and bring more revenue.The bill is almost being done with. Before we go on break in August, I believe we’re going to get the tax reforms bill passed into law. We have worked hard on it, all governors across the federation are now on board, they now see reason why we have to pass it, they now see reason why it will benefit their states; they now see the sense in what Mr President has done. And  on this work, we cooperated with the executive, we did a lot of groundwork reaching out to the states, we did public hearings where various interest groups came and participated”.

    He continued: “People are talking out of the context of that bill. I am not saying we accepted everything inside the bill (wholesale); we made amendments in some areas. Our report in the senate is almost completed, I’m sure the House of Reps they are almost done with their report, I’m sure by the time we resume, where we still have grey areas between the House and the Senate, we will sit and harmonise. In the next two to three months, we’re going to have the tax reforms bill passed into law”.

    Speaking on the new National Anthem Bill, he said the old National Anthem “Arise o Compatriots”, which was introduced by the military junta, was justifiably recommended for replacement with the  original anthem by President Bola Tinubu. 

    “I’ve told you the objective of the 10th Assembly under the leadership of the Senate  President, His Excellency Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Rt Hon Tajudeen Abbas is not to fight the executive over nothing but to dialogue on how to move the nation forward. Mr President gave reasons why he wanted us to go back to what it was from the  beginning; that the (original) Anthem will bring Nigerians together the more. He wanted to create a new national  orientation and we agreed with him. We debated it. What (people) don’t understand is that there are some issues, instead of debating publicly, we go into executive session. Instead of going into plenary, arguing and shouting at each other—some contentious issues  we go into executive session to debate it there; and when we are done arguing at the closed session we go back to the plenary because all the issues they’ve been resolved at the close session”.

    Asked to comment on contemporary issues he considered to present the most difficult time in the life of the 10th National Assembly, he quickly pointed to the National Minimum Wage crisis and the attendant threats of nationwide industrial action by the labour leaders. 

    He argued that contrary to negative perception among the public, federal lawmakers prioritise the interest of the masses.

    “We are concerned about people you called ordinary men. They are our people that elected us, without their votes, we would  not have been there today and we are doing all that we can do to make their lives better. Let me tell you where we started from, this government (when it came on board) the economy was really bad, I don’t want to put the blame on any past government, but it was really bad. We got to the  situation whereby to survive, we had to be printing Naira. You know, when the government starts printing currency, that means that they no longer (have ways and means) to fund the activities of government. That was where we took over from. When this government came, they had to stop that. The foreign capital investment was almost nill. Nobody was ready to come and do business with us. So, this  government came in, they had to create a new order and that brought a lot of hardship to the citizenry. 

    “The President took the bold step by stopping fuel subsidy, which had become a drain pipe on our economy for long. The fuel they are using in our neighbouring countries was being subsidised by Nigerian government and that’s the way we’ve been living. The President put a stop to it and that brought about high cost of living, but he had to do that to save our future and we cooperated with him.  Because of the high cost of living, the labour came up with the protest that the wage bill was low, we had to work with the labour, work with the executive (and) we immediately passed the national minimum wage bill. (So, this is to tell you that it is not true that we are not there for our people) as some people are saying. The President also brought TETFUND, educational loans so that students can approach TETFUND to take loans (to support their education.”

    Another major achievement of the 10th National Assembly, he noted, is the establishment of regional development commissions.

    He emphasised that the regional development commissions is the baby of the 10th National Assembly, which ceme with the law that each of the  six geopolitical zones has a development commission to accelerate infrastructure development within each zone. 

    “The (Regional Development Commission Bill) is the creation of this 10th National Assembly, It is not the creation  of the executive. We (enacted it) and the president accepted it. In this year’s budget alone about N170bn was earmarked for each of the six commissions. You are going to see a lot of developmental projects going on all over the six geopolitical zones”.

    Karimi, however, dismissed questions relating to his suspended colleague and fellow Kogi lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan saying her issues were irrelevant to the discussion, which focused on the achievements of the national assembly and national development. He downplayed the trending news around the Kogi Central Senator describing the events as nothing but mere distractions and side attractions, which, according to him “is not the best for the national assembly as an institution, and we’ve got to move beyond this.”

  • Work starts on Ibom deep seaport soon, Eno assures

    Work starts on Ibom deep seaport soon, Eno assures

    Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has stated all is now set for construction work to begin at the Ibom Deep Seaport

    Speaking to a packed-to-capacity arena during the Town Square meeting of Oron Federal Constituency, the Governor noted that he would flag-off the construction of the city gate and the sales office of the Deep Seaport as part of his second anniversary activities.

    According to Eno: ” We are done with talking. We are done with drawing. We are done with paper work, now is time for action. This is a step forward in our quest to deliver this important project”.

    This flag-off would coincide with the inauguration of the Uyenge- Deep Seaport Road.

    During the Town Square aimed at giving people from Oron Federal Constituency the chance to avail the Governor of their needs, grants totalling N335m were given to traders, farmers and business owners in the five Local Government Areas of the federal constituency: Oron, Okobo, Udung Uko, Urue Offong Oruko and Mbo.  

    Details of the amount are as follows: N51 million to 108 farmers from the N2billion farmers loan; 543 business men and women got N225 million while 10 entrepreneurs received N5million.

    On the grants, the Governor said they were done in line with his government’s policy of entrepreneurial and agricultural development.

    Speaking further he said: “We have received the Needs Document and we’re going to look at it local government by local government and work with it as it will form part of the 2026 budget christened ‘The People’s Budget. 

    “As you know, there are 31 Local Government Areas and even if we cannot execute all the projects on this document, we will make sure we execute at least one in each of the five local government areas. 

    “Because we swore to be fair to all, we will not leave any federal constituency in the state behind.”

    Eno, who expressed delight at the progress of the 14km Airport – Nsit Atai -Okobo Road, commended the contractor, Hensek Integrated Services, for the pace of work.

    “That road has seen three successful government and has been used for campaigns, but today with the finishers anointing that God has given us, that road will be commissioned soon.”

    Commending the massive turnout at the Stadium, Governor Eno urged people to keep faith with their representatives as the Needs Document would capture the priority needs and requests of people of the constituency.  

    The Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, an indigene of the Constituency, expressed appreciation for everything the Governor has done for her people and assured them that even more are on course under the ARISE Agenda.

    “The Governor is very passionate about Oro and he has promised to do more. Everything I ask him, he is always very willing to do it for us in Oro. Thank you for loving me and my people”, she said, while also thanking everyone who made the occasion a success.

    While setting the tone for the engagements, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Enobong Uwah, said: “We are here to listen to the Oro people, and get to know what their needs are, so that they can be captured in the 2026 budget.  

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    “You are going to have the ARISE traders’ grants, the ARISE Farmers’ Grants, and the ARISE MSMEs grants. 

    “For the love you have shown the Governor, I can assure you that he will show you more love in return from now till 2031.”

    The SSG who particularly expressed joy over the progress at the Airport – Nsit Atai – Okobo Road,stated that the road was among the 52 projects being delivered by the Governor in the area.

    In their presentation, the leaders of Oron Federal Constituency, who spoke through Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, eulogized the Governor for working hard to “depopulate the kingdom of the devil” by creating jobs for the youths in different ways. 

    “Our people shall stand by you in appreciation of your excellent performance across the entire State, and in Oron Federal Constituency in particular.”

    The stakeholders thereafter adorned the Governor in their traditional regalia of wrapper and cap in appreciation for his life-changing projects for their people.

    This was followed by a vote of confidence by the lawmakers from the federal constituency, following a motion by federal Lawmaker Hon.Martin Esin and seconded by Chief Effiong Johnson, the Chief Whip of the State Assembly.

    In his goodwill message, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey, President-General of Oron Union expressed appreciation to the Governor on the numerous completed and ongoing projects and assured the Governor of their continued support come 2027.

    Speaking for the royal fathers, the Paramount Ruler of Udung Uko and Chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council, Odidem Bassey Etim Edet expressed the support of royal fathers to the Governor for a second term in office, for ‘walking the talk’ in his development agenda for the people.

    The local government chairmen, led by Hon. Uno Etim Uno, Chairman of Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area, also lent their voices in support of the government of Pastor Umo Eno and promised to stand by him for eight uninterrupted years. 

    Highpoint of the event was the presentation of cheques to the beneficiaries by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, Senator Ekong Sampson and PDP State Chairman, Aniekan Akpan.

  • Uromi killing: NNPP chieftain condoles Kano governor, condemns jungle justice

    Uromi killing: NNPP chieftain condoles Kano governor, condemns jungle justice

    A Southwest chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Amb. Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has expressed condolences to Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and the people of the state over the alleged killing of 16 Kano travellers in Edo State. 

    Ajadi denounced the act of jungle justice, stating that such actions have no place in a civilized nation and are unacceptable at this point in Nigeria’s history. 

    Reports indicate that 16 northern travellers were allegedly killed by local vigilantes in Uromi, Esan North Local Government Area of Edo State, while traveling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Kano State.

    The victims were reportedly attacked and brutally killed by a vigilante group in Udune Efandion, a community in Uromi. 

    In a statement, Ajadi described the incident as tragic and called for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

    He urged citizens to embrace unity, emphasizing the message in Nigeria’s National Anthem, which highlights the country’s strength in diversity and brotherhood. 

    He also cautioned against taking the law into one’s hands, advising that anyone suspected of criminal activity should be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agencies rather than subjected to mob justice.

    He said, “I commiserate with the Kano State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Abba Yusuf, and the people of Kano State generally on the death of 16 northern hunters who were brutally murdered in Uromi, Edo State, on their way to Kano from Port Harcourt for the Eid-el-fitr.

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    “The incident is regrettable and is uncalled for. We cannot do anything for the dead except to pray for the repose of their souls. The Almighty Allah will grant them Aljannah firdau.

    “I urged Nigerians to live as one irrespective of tribe or religion. Our National Anthem emphasise unity, and we must uphold the words of our National Anthem, which says’ though tribes and tongues may differ in brotherhood we stand.

    “This type of action is condemnable and we should take solace in the fact that the government has promised to fish out those who carried out the dastardly act and I know they will face the full wrath of the law.

    “The lesson from this incident is that we as Nigerians should not take law into our own hands. We should report any suspected criminals or crimes to the nearest law enforcement agencies.

    “I also thank Governor Abba Yusuf for his efforts at preventing reprisal attack. God will console you and the people of Kano. We pray we will not witness such sad events again in our land”.

  • Nigerians in US seek reversal of state of emergency in Rivers

    Nigerians in US seek reversal of state of emergency in Rivers

    A coalition of Nigerian activists in the United States, under the Democratic Movement (DM), has announced a demonstration at the White House to protest the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.

    The coalition is demanding the reversal of the emergency rule imposed on Rivers State by the Nigerian government, the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and the restoration of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

    A statement on Thursday by Cosmos Collins Achief, president of the group, said the protest aims to draw global attention to what the coalition describes as a “direct assault on democracy and the will of the people.”

    “We cannot sit back while an elected governor is removed, an entire legislature is suspended, and an unelected administrator is imposed. These are dangerous precedents that threaten Nigeria’s democracy,” he said.

    The coalition said the protest will take place in Washington, D.C., with demonstrators marching to the White House and the U.S. Department of State to submit petitions demanding international intervention.

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    “The world needs to see what is happening in Rivers State. A democratically elected government has been suspended under the guise of emergency rule. We are urging President Donald Trump to engage with Nigerian authorities and call for the immediate restoration of constitutional order,” the statement added.

    The pro-democracy movement also called on global leaders, including the United Nations and the African Union, to take notice of what it describes as a blatant attack on democratic governance in Nigeria.

    “The president must understand that his actions could lead to serious diplomatic consequences. This move is a step toward dictatorship, and Nigeria risks facing international sanctions if democratic principles are not respected,” Achief warned.

    The demonstration is expected to draw the attention of Nigerians in the diaspora, civil rights activists, and supporters of democracy who share concerns about governance in Nigeria.

  • South East Investment Corporation and the dawn of a new economic era in Alaigbo

    South East Investment Corporation and the dawn of a new economic era in Alaigbo

    By Jerrywright Ukwu

    The South East Development Commission (SEDC) inaugurated an ad-hoc committee to develop the conceptual framework that would help establish the South East Investment Corporation (SEIC) on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. 

    This initiative comes at a time when the south east needs to harness its vast economic potential and position itself as a key player in Nigeria’s investment landscape. 

    With a well-thought-out structure, the committee members drawn from the organized private sector, will position the SEIC to play a critical role in transforming the south east into an economic powerhouse, not just within Nigeria but across Africa.

    One of the most commendable aspects of the committee is the calibre of professionals who make up its members. The committee members are not only drawn from the south east but also different parts of Nigeria, ensuring that the initiative is inclusive and aligns with the principles of federal character. 

    This diversity of thought and experience is expected to bring innovative solutions to the challenges of investment attraction and economic growth in the region.

    The committee comprises a distinguished group of professionals with extensive expertise across various sectors. Michael Nzewi, the Group Managing Director/CEO of CardinalStone Partners, has significant experience in investment banking, having worked with Standard Chartered Bank, Vetiva Capital Management, and PwC. 

    Ogonna Nneji, Partner at Albourne Partners, leads the Risk Advisory unit and has a PhD in Finance from the University of Reading. 

    He has a background in quantitative analysis, including his previous role as a Quantitative Strategist at FBNQuest Asset Management. 

    Stella Duru, a Partner at Banwo & Ighodalo, is a highly regarded legal expert with over 23 years of experience in the energy and natural resources sectors. 

    She earned her LL.B from the University of Lagos and has been recognized as a top leader in project development and corporate law.

    The committee also includes Fola Fagbule, Senior VP and Head of Financial Advisory at the Africa Finance Corporation, who brings vast expertise in infrastructure and corporate finance. Fola holds an MBA from Lagos Business School and a BSc in Physics from the University of Lagos. 

    Obianuju Uchenna, a structured finance expert, has a rich background in investment banking and international development consulting, having worked at Goldman Sachs and Avery Row. She holds advanced degrees from Oxford, Sciences Po, and Columbia University. 

    Ifeatu Onejeme, a seasoned finance professional, previously served as the Commissioner for Finance in Anambra State and has significant experience in banking. 

    He graduated with First Class Honours in Accounting from the University of Nigeria and has attended prestigious institutions, including Wharton Business School. 

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    Chinedu Nwigwe, an expert in infrastructure development and PPPs, has nearly two decades of experience in sectors like transport, urban infrastructure, and energy. He holds an MBA in Public-Private Partnerships from the Malaysian University of Science and Technology. 

    Mukhtar Mohammed, with 24 years of experience in the financial sector, specializes in banking, pension funds, and asset management, holding two master’s degrees in business and international affairs.

    The SEIC is expected to facilitate investments into critical sectors such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), agribusiness, manufacturing, and services. By focusing on these sectors, the corporation aims to create a thriving business ecosystem that can compete nationally and internationally. 

    The committee members, working virtually without pay for an initial four-week period, are expected to draft a white paper outlining the conceptual framework for the programme. This document will serve as the foundation for the SEIC’s operations, detailing strategies for investment attraction, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.

    There are expectations that SEIC will explore various funding sources for the benefit of the south east by collaborating with private investors, utilising federal and state government subsidies, establishing regional funding pools, engaging with development institutions like the African Development Bank or the World Bank for potential funding opportunities and consider bonds or sustainable infrastructure financing options for projects in the region. 

    Another major area of focus for the SEIC is the enhancement of economic activities in Aba, Onitsha, and Nnewi, three of the most industrious cities in the south east. Aba, known for its entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship, stands to benefit from increased investments in manufacturing and SME development. 

    Onitsha, a commercial hub with one of the largest markets in West Africa, will witness an upsurge in trade opportunities and improved infrastructure. Meanwhile, Nnewi, the industrial nerve centre of the south east, will see a renewed push towards industrialisation, fostering local production and reducing reliance on imports.

    Beyond facilitating immediate investments, the SEIC will be tasked with developing a comprehensive master plan for the long-term economic transformation of the south east. 

    This entails securing strategic partnerships like collaborating with the Nigeria Railway Corporation to initiate rail transport and logistics. SEIC can leverage the NRC’s existing infrastructure and expertise to develop new rail lines or upgrade existing ones, enhancing connectivity within the region. 

    This collaboration can focus on creating efficient transportation networks that support economic activities, especially in industrial hubs like Nnewi and commercial centres like Onitsha and Aba. 

    The corporation will also ensure transparent financial management, accounting for every kobo that flows into the region, and creating mechanisms to attract private investors, especially from Ndigbo, to reinvest in their homeland.

    More importantly, the SEIC’s objectives align with the investment agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which prioritises attracting investments into Nigeria. 

    The President’s manifesto insists on fostering an enabling environment for businesses, improving access to finance, and enhancing the country’s overall economic competitiveness. 

    By establishing a dedicated entity for investment promotion in the south east, the SEIC will contribute to the realisation of these national objectives while ensuring that the region becomes a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s economic growth strategy.

    The launch of the committee represents a proactive approach to addressing the economic challenges facing the south east, all thanks to the Mark Okoye-led SEDC. 

    With a well-structured committee, a clear mandate, and a commitment to sustainable development, the corporation is set to become a catalyst for transformation. If successfully implemented, this initiative will not only boost the region’s economy but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s overall prosperity.

    The south east has long been known for its entrepreneurial excellence and industrious spirit. With the SEIC in place, the region will have a structured mechanism to translate its economic potential into tangible growth and development. 

    This is not just an initiative; it is a movement towards a prosperous and self-sustaining south east, and indeed, a stronger Nigeria.

    The journey to economic transformation has begun. The task ahead is immense, but with the right policies, partnerships, and commitment, the south east is poised to become an investment destination of choice.

    – Jerrywright Ukwu, a journalist writes from Abuja. He can be reached at jerrywrightukwu.o@gmail.com.