The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • NDDC boss inspects projects in Ika Federal Constituency, others

    NDDC boss inspects projects in Ika Federal Constituency, others

    The Chairman, Governing Board of Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie on Friday, inspected some ongoing NDDC-funded  projects he attracted to Ika Federal Constituency for the benefits of the people, assuring that the Commission will always prioritise the people’s requests.  

    Some of these projects include: the equipped ICT centre at the Faculty of Law, University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, with modern computers and state of the art infotech equipment, the inspection of construction project at the first phase of the failed portion of Umunede/Umutu Road by Pan Ocean Flow station, at Owa-Alidinma., Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta state, among others.  

    Arriving at the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Barrister Ebie and his entourage were received by the institution’s Vice-Chancellor (VC), Professor Stella Chinyere Chiemeke, alongside other principal staff of the University.

    While the University leadership expressed delight for the visit and NDDC’s contribution towards quality education delivery in a conducive environment and faculty, Professor Chiemeke specifically thanked Ebie for his good work, and lauded his huge intervention projects through the NDDC.

    “I have acknowledged your huge intervention projects through the NDDC in my speech delivered on the just concluded 4th Founder’s Day of the institution. We will continue to thank you, and as Oliver Twist asks for more.a

    “For now, you have done enough for the Faculty of Law. I will appeal that you come to our aid in other areas such as providing the institution with buses. We are very proud of you and your outstanding leadership quality at the NDDC. This is a testament to your track records,” the V.C. noted.

    Responding, Ebie expressed joy over the completion of the installation of the ICT Centre Faculty of Law UNIDEL, Agbor, as it will enhance learning.  

    Ebie, a former Delta Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, and former Secretary to the state Government (SSG), further assured the institution’s leadership that all their requests on behalf of the institution would always be granted, appealing to the management of the Institution to at all time ensure a high standard of learning.

    From University of Delta, Ebie and his entourage moved to inspect the first phase of construction of a failed portion of Umunede/Umutu Road by Pan Ocean Flow station, Owa-Alidinma.

    Speaking at the construction site, the NDDC Governing Board Chairman appealed to the contractor to ensure that quality jobs are done in ways that will properly check flooding ravaging the area.

    He told newsmen that the exercise will continue through the long stretch of the road down to Ute Erumu where another major part of the road has reportedly collapsed.

    It would be recalled that under NDDC’s ‘’Light Up Niger Delta Programme’’ Ebie attracted thousands of solar street lights to Ika Federal constituency thereby boosting economic and social activities which make life and living easier and softer, with most communities illuminated.

    In a similar vein, in April 2024, during  the second Founders Day celebration and fundraising for Ika Language and Cultural Research Centre of the university of Delta, Ebie instituted a yearly award for the best graduating medical student at the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, Delta State.

    According to him, the award by the family which would be reviewed after five years is in honour of his father, the pioneer Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Benin Teaching hospitals (UBTH), late Professor John Ebie.

  • Expert unveils solution for tackling pollution, waste in oil and gas industry

    Expert unveils solution for tackling pollution, waste in oil and gas industry

    Titilola Shawana, MBA, HRPL, PMP, and Executive Director of Operations at Olu Tee Engineering, Houston, Texas, has outlined strategies for addressing pollution and waste management in the oil and gas sector.

    Shawana, a fellow of the Institute of Productivity and Business Innovation Management (IPBIM), emphasized that the industry’s shifting regulatory landscape and increasing global concerns about environmental impact demand a structured, data-driven approach.

    Inspired by the need to bridge the gap between regulatory compliance, sustainability, and operational efficiency, she developed GreenFlow Audit, a solution designed to help companies navigate these challenges.

    “Throughout my 11 years of experience, I have witnessed the struggles companies face in aligning their processes with environmental regulations while maintaining productivity,” Shawana said.

    GreenFlow Audit provides organizations—whether public, private, or nonprofit—with tools to assess their environmental footprint, identify compliance risks, and implement sustainable practices.

    “Our goal is to help companies meet regulatory requirements, enhance environmental stewardship, and drive long-term sustainability,” she explained.

    According to Shawana, the solution has already made a significant impact in Nigeria and globally, offering actionable insights that promote both environmental responsibility and business efficiency.

    “In Nigeria, the tool has played a pivotal role in helping oil and gas companies navigate the country’s environmental regulations, reduce operational risks, and enhance compliance. By enabling companies to identify and address environmental gaps. 

    “It has contributed to reducing pollution, improving waste management, and promoting sustainable resource usage. This has not only enhanced the industry’s environmental performance but has also strengthened community relations by mitigating the negative impacts of industrial activities on local ecosystems. She disclosed.

    “Globally, the innovation she revealed has been adopted by organizations seeking to align with international sustainability standards such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. 

    “By providing a comprehensive framework for assessing and improving environmental performance, the tool has empowered companies worldwide to enhance their sustainability practices, drive operational excellence, and meet the growing demands of environmentally conscious stakeholders.

    “The tool’s scalability and adaptability have made it valuable across diverse industries, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for global environmental progress. Through partnerships with multinational corporations, regulatory bodies, and industry associations, GreenFlow Audit™ continues to drive positive change, promoting a culture of sustainability that transcends geographical boundaries.’ she noted.

    On assessment of feedback, Shawana said the feedback received from companies using the innovative tool has been overwhelmingly positive, with users consistently highlighting its effectiveness in driving measurable improvements. 

    “Based on key performance indicators and user testimonials, I would rate the assessment feedback as 9.5 out of 10.

    Users have praised the tool for its:

    “Accuracy and Reliability: Providing precise and data-driven insights that help organizations identify compliance gaps and optimize their environmental performance.

    User-Friendliness: It offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible to users at all levels of technical expertise.

    Actionable Recommendations: Delivering practical, actionable steps that enable companies to implement sustainable practices and achieve measurable results.

    Compliance Assurance: Helping organizations stay ahead of evolving regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties’ she emphasized.

    She said the tool’s ability to provide customized reports and benchmarking capabilities has further enhanced its value. This allowsg companies to track their progress over time andcomparek their performance against industry peers.

    Titilola Shawana, recently honoured with Distinguished international Membership Award by IPBIM, is a fellow, Chartered Institute of Loan & Risk Management of Nigeria (CILRM) among others, has over 11 years of experience in the oil and gas servicing industry, specialising in integrated waste management, environmental services, civic and mechanical engineering, and dredging and marine logistics support.

    She achieved a 25% reduction in operational costs and a 30% increase in project efficiency. 

    Proficient in strategic planning, project management, and process optimization using advanced ERP systems and data analytics. 

    She is skilled in leading cross-functional teams and managing multi-million-dollar budgets.

  • Edo hosts policy dialogue to mark Gov Okpebholo’s 100 days in office

    Edo hosts policy dialogue to mark Gov Okpebholo’s 100 days in office

    In commemoration of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first 100 days in office, the Edo State Government, in collaboration with Policy House International, held a policy dialogue on February 21, 2025, at the John Oyegun Public Service Academy. 

    The event brought together civil servants, academics, business leaders, security officials and civil society groups to assess governance progress and discuss economic growth, education, public safety, and infrastructure development.

    Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor, emphasised the administration’s commitment to citizen engagement and infrastructure development. 

    “The government is making massive investments that will ease hardship, accelerate growth, and improve quality of life over the next few years,” he said, adding that continuous dialogue with citizens would help prevent misconceptions about government policies.

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    Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Barr Felix Iserr, highlighted the state’s push for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative energy source. 

    He called for a more transparent local content policy in the oil and gas sector, ensuring local contractors benefit from procurement activities. 

    “We must diversify our economy beyond a civil service structure into mining, oil and gas, and a vibrant SME sector,” he stated.

    Discussions also focused on education, with stakeholders calling for better funding, recruitment of qualified teachers, and a review of the EdoBEST program. 

    Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, stressed the need to invest in technology-driven learning and strengthen education monitoring systems. “We cannot afford to let infrastructure decay; quality education requires both physical and intellectual investment,” he said.

    On security, participants commended the amended anti-cultism law and called for greater intelligence-sharing among Edo and neighboring states. Retired CSP Yusuf Haruna underscored the need for community-driven security initiatives. “A collaborative approach involving government, security agencies, and citizens is crucial to tackling crime,” he noted.

    Discussions on healthcare emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding free malaria treatment and improving access to primary healthcare. Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, Commissioner for Health, urged state officials to patronize public hospitals to boost confidence in the sector. “Leadership by example is key to strengthening our healthcare system,” he said.

    The event also addressed food security, with stakeholders praising the revival of the Igarra Cattle Ranch and increased agricultural investments. However, concerns were raised over farmer-herder conflicts, with calls for decisive action to resolve disputes.

    Policy House International’s Executive Director, Taiwo Akerele, described the dialogue as a vital step in strengthening governance and accountability. “Edo State has the potential to be among Nigeria’s top five economies in the next five years, but bold policy choices are needed,” he stated.

    A documentary showcasing the administration’s achievements in its first 100 days was also aired during the event.

  • Okpebholo: Is anyone still in doubt?

    Okpebholo: Is anyone still in doubt?

    By John Mayaki

    For those who doubted Governor Monday Okpebholo’s capacity to govern Edo State efficiently and effectively – I mean those of us who questioned his ability to unite the people, enhance security, and position the state prominently in national politics during the electioneering, it is now abundantly clear that we were mistaken. We were not just mistaken, but damn wrong. Okpebholo has defied expectations, proving that he is not the weakling some of us assumed him to be. It is time to acknowledge this reality and, perhaps, even apologize.

    The testimonies are piling up. The National Chairman of the APC and former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, has acknowledged Okpebholo’s remarkable achievements. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State and the senator representing Edo North, has openly admitted that Okpebholo accomplished in 100 days what others, including himself, could not within the same period. Even Philip Shaibu, the former deputy governor also testified to this. These endorsements are not mere political niceties – they are admissions of undeniable progress.

    Yet, if these testimonies were not enough, Okpebholo’s recent interviews on Channels Television and Television Continental (TVC) should erase any lingering doubts. Those who once viewed him as hesitant or camera-shy were in for a shock. The man who supposedly avoided the spotlight during the electioneering, commanded it with confidence, fluency, and sharp wit. He not only articulated his vision with clarity but also took well-aimed jabs at his opponents, unsettling the camp of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.

    The interviews, particularly with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels TV and Babajide Kolade-Otitoju on TVC, tells of a governor who is fully in control. He tackled every question head-on, without hesitation or evasion. This is not the sign of a leader who is weak or unprepared but the mark of a man who understands the weight of his office and the expectations upon him.

    Now, we all can see that Okpebholo is not one to grandstand or seek empty applause. He lets his work speak for itself. Pessimists and skeptics who dismissed him must now reckon with the reality of his leadership. 

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    In subsequent analyses, I will break down key takeaways from his interviews, but for now, let us reflect on the testimonies of Ganduje, Oshiomhole, and Shaibu. Their words carry weight. And if they have seen what some of us once refused to acknowledge, perhaps it is time to admit – Okpebholo is emerging as one of Nigeria’s governors to watch, alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State.

    For a state to develop, it cannot be isolated. Under Obaseki, Edo State functioned like a pariah and an orphan – completely disconnected from the federal government and missing out on crucial support. However, Governor Okpebholo has changed that narrative. Edo is no longer a pariah state; it is now attracting federal assistance, a shift acknowledged even by former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.

    Shaibu, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily yesterday, praised Okpebholo for securing federal government support within his first 100 days in office – something he admitted was not possible under the previous administration. He said this engagement would free up state funds, allowing for more developmental projects.

    His words, “The clever thing Governor Okpebholo has done, which I applaud him for and which we didn’t do, is his ability to engage with the center and secure federal support.

    “The support coming from the federal government will free up the state’s resources for other developments. That is what he is cleverly doing, and I think it will help him drive development more quickly.”

    He is not alone. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, speaking as the guest lecturer at the event of Governor Okpebholo’s 100 days in office, praised the Governor for his remarkable achievements within his first 100 days in office, stating that Edo is truly rising under his leadership. He said Okpebholo’s administration has demonstrated practical governance with tangible results, unlike previous governments that relied on signing MoUs and hiring consultants.

    Oshiomhole admitted that Okpebholo had accomplished in 100 days what he himself could not achieve during the same period as governor. This acknowledgment alone underscores Okpebholo’s efficiency and hands-on approach to governance, positioning him as a leader focused on action rather than rhetoric.

    Besides, former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje praised Okpebholo’s impressive performance within his first 100 days in office, stating that his achievements have garnered national attention.

    Ganduje revealed that when he informed APC National Working Committee (NWC) members about Okpebholo’s 100-day celebration, they all expressed interest in attending, having followed his progress on television and heard positive reports from recent visitors to Edo State.

    He commended Okpebholo for laying a solid foundation for the state’s development, confidently predicting that his performance could easily secure him a second term (four plus four). Describing Okpebholo as a calculative leader, Ganduje noted that the governor ensures financial readiness before undertaking capital-intensive projects and maintains strict supervision to guarantee their success.

    The testimonies of these respected leaders – Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, and former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje – collectively dispel any doubts about Okpebholo’s competence and ability to govern efficiently and effectively.

    Initially, skeptics questioned whether Okpebholo was truly grounded and capable of delivering meaningful development in Edo State. However, the overwhelming praise from these figures, particularly Oshiomhole’s admission that Okpebholo achieved in 100 days what he himself could not, proves otherwise.

    It is clear – Okpebholo is not only grounded but has also demonstrated a results-driven approach to governance. Far from being a weak or unprepared leader, he has exceeded expectations, silenced critics, and laid a strong foundation for the future of Edo State.

  • Equity, justice, inclusiveness solution to Delta APC crisis, says Johnny

    Equity, justice, inclusiveness solution to Delta APC crisis, says Johnny

    A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) High Chief Michael Johnny has recommended adherence to equity, justice and inclusiveness as panacea  to resolving the  lingering internal crisis bedeviling the APC in Delta State.

    Johnny, Agadiwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom and leader of Delta State Ijaw APC, in a video message on Wednesday, noted that the internal crisis in Delta APC was unnecessary and must be put to rest.

    Johnny was responding to the controversial leadership council list, which has further escalated the crisis in the party.

    The controversial leadership council list had been withdrawn and dismissed by the National Working Committee (NWC) of APC.

    Johnny pointed that the withdrawn list was done and announced to the public without proper consultations with major stakeholders.

    According to him, the party must be seen to belong to all registered APC members in Delta South, Delta Central and Delta North respectively.

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    Johnny, who joined the APC in early 2015, said there was need for aggrieved members to be calm and patient while efforts are being made to resolve the internal rambling in Delta APC.

    He decried the imbalance where a particular Senatorial District appeared to have gained more appointments since 2015, to the detriment of other Senatorial Districts.

    He alleged the Ijaws of APC in Delta South Senatorial have been marginalised, noting that it should be corrected going forward.

    Jonny said the primary goal now is how APC will win elections in Delta State come 2027, and also bring development and empowerment to the people of Delta State.

    For Johnny, it has become imperative to prioritise peace and unity in Delta APC, which is the only way to position the party to electoral victory in 2027.

  • Council boss mulls collaboration with NIWA on plastic recycling, others 

    Council boss mulls collaboration with NIWA on plastic recycling, others 

    The chairman of Warri South Local Government Area (LGA), Delta state, Comrade Isaac Agbateyiniro, is mulling collaboration with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in recycling plastic waste among other economic ventures.

    Agbateyiniro gave the hint when he embarked on an on-the-spot assessment of various sections of NIWA ‘s dockyard in Warri, Tuesday.

    The move was part of efforts by the Local Government to ensure growth and development as encapsulated in its MORE Grace agenda, across the council area.

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    “As a local government, we will collaborate with NIWA for optimal productivity,” Hon. Agbateyiniro stated. 

    At the Plastic Waste Recycling factory, the council boss noted that a partnership could boost economic revenue for the LGA, and also enhance efforts for a clean oil city.

    Other facilities visited were the Marine Engine workshop and Sandblasting workshop.

    On his part, the Area Manager of NIWA, Engr. Rufus Oladimeji Ogbonlato, emphasized the need for collaboration with the agency, noting that the facilities are in shape to drive economic growth in the area.

    Oladimeji further thanked the Council boss for the visit, just as he commended his (Chairman) commitment to promoting growth and development in the LGA.

  • NDDC boss advocates mental health evaluation for police officers

    NDDC boss advocates mental health evaluation for police officers

    The managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, has called on the Nigerian Police Force (NPC) to conduct a periodic evaluation of mental health of Police officers.

    Ogbuku said: “Knowing the vast job the police play in protecting society, the Nigeria Police Force should ensure periodic vetting and evaluation of its officers to sift those who are drifting. 

    “The Police Authority should also evaluate the mental health of its officers through psychological testing. This is to ensure that emotional intelligence is at play during the execution of their duties.”

    Ogbuku in a statement signed by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thomson-Wakama, called on all Nigerians to join hands with the Nigeria Police Force in the fight against crime and other vices in the society.

    Ogbuku spoke at the fifth edition of the Strategic Security Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Abeokuta, Ogun state, with the theme “Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security and Economic Prosperity through Inclusive Policing.”

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    The NDDC boss thanked the officers of the Nigeria Police Force for the sacrifices they were making in securing the country adding that inclusive policing involved all citizens. 

    He said: “If the police are reported to be failing in their duties, Nigerian citizens should ensure they also contribute to the success of the police operations, either by reporting crimes or cooperating with the police by giving useful information that will aid the force in solving crimes and tracking criminals.”

    Ogbuku said that the retreat, put together by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, would bring about renewed vigour in policing the country. 

    He said: “This retreat will review the unprofessional activities of the force’s officers to implement sustainable policies for the betterment of society”.

    The NDDC boss highlighted measures the Commission had taken to support the security agency.

    He said: “We recently installed 60kva solar inverters in Police Headquarters in the nine states of the Niger Delta region. We have successfully installed one at the Imo State Police Headquarters while the remaining installations are underway.

    “To enhance operatives’ performance, the NDDC has also supplied communication gadgets to the Rivers Police State Command and repaired the failed mast and armoured personnel carriers in Rivers and Bayelsa States. 

    The commission has also provided six 250-horsepower Yamaha outboard engines and also rehabilitated six of the outboard engines to combat crime in Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta region at large.”

    Ogbuku noted that the donations underscored the partnership between the NDDC and the Police Force in the Niger Delta region.

  • I’m an advocate of party unity, not in any faction – Igbuya

    I’m an advocate of party unity, not in any faction – Igbuya

    The Delta State representative on the Board of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya has debunked a media report that he is supporting a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State.

    Chief Igbuya, a former Delta Speaker, said that he is a strong advocate of party unity in Delta; as such, he cannot be seen to be supporting a divisive move, which is capable of weakening the party ahead of 2027 general elections.

    The Delta APC chieftain stated this in a telephone chat while reacting to the claim by Hon. Stella Okotete, an Executive Director at the Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), in her interview where she claimed that Igbuya and other supports the Delta APC “collegiate leadership.” 

    Okotete, while speaking on the leadership crisis in Delta APC, was quoted to have said: …”That tells you how united and attractive the APC is in Delta. We have three senators. The three senators are working together with the Honorable Minister of Aviation and other critical party stakeholders. From former speakers of the Delta State House of Assembly to former legislators, the Halims Agodas, the Igbuyas, and the Ocheis are all working together. The pioneer leader of the party, O’tega Emerhor is working with the Minister (of Aviation) and the senators.”

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    However, Chief Igbuya, in his reaction, said:  “I want to put on record that I am not aligned with any camp. I do not support any faction, nor do I stand with any particular individual in this matter. It is important to clarify that I am not involved in any divisive moves within the Delta APC. I firmly believe in the unity of the party in Delta and will continue to advocate for it.

    “I do not think it is wise to encourage or participate in what some describe as a “gang-up” or collegiate leadership that fosters division. My stance has always been clear—I am a strong advocate of party unity. I have always prioritized working towards cohesion rather than fueling internal conflicts.

    “Recently, I visited the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace, Olorogun Festus Keyamu, who made certain allegations against Omo-Agege. I confronted him regarding those claims and subsequently addressed Omo-Agege as well. My intention remains the same—I will continue to reach out to other leaders to understand the reasons behind these persistent divisions within the party.

    Chief Igbuya added: “I cannot be seen preaching unity while simultaneously taking sides. That is not who I am, and I want to make my position absolutely clear. My reaction is solely in response to the aspect that concerns me. While I congratulate her on her 40th birthday, it is simply not true that I support the assertions she has made.”

  • Niger Delta youths dismiss allegations of nepotism, others against PAP boss

    Niger Delta youths dismiss allegations of nepotism, others against PAP boss

    Niger Delta youths have dismissed all allegations of nepotism, favouritism, and financial mismanagement against the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, describing them as false.

    The youths, who spoke in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, from the camp of Dennis Philip said Otuaro had never been involved in such misdeed.

    A youth leader from the camp, Tarry Foray Fayeofori, also dismissed as an outright lie the claim that Otuaro was under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) insisting that such a claim was a gross distortion of facts crafted with the sole intention of misleading the public.

    Fayeofori said the attacks on Otuaro were a calculated attempt by self-serving individuals to disrupt the remarkable progress being recorded in PAP under his visionary leadership.

    He said: “These unfounded allegations represent a desperate effort to tarnish Chief Otuaro’s reputation and undermine the stability and growth of the Niger Delta region.

    “The perpetrators of these baseless accusations fail to acknowledge the groundbreaking achievements of the PAP under his administration and instead seek to destabilize the peace and development championed by his leadership.

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    Fayeofori, a prominent youth leader in Rivers State insisted that the allegations were malicious falsehoods lacking any foundation in truth.

    He described Otuaro as a man of integrity, a true son of the Niger Delta, and a product of the PAP himself, adding that his appointment to lead the PAP was a divine intervention aimed at restructuring and reinvigorating the initiative for the greater good of the region.

    He said Otuaro’s tenure has ushered strategic reforms that focused on empowering ex-agitators, fostering lasting peace, and spearheading economic transformation across the Niger Delta.

    Fayeofori said: “Under his leadership, the PAP has made significant strides in ensuring that former agitators are reintegrated into society through various skill acquisition programs, educational scholarships, and entrepreneurial support. His policies have not only stabilized the region but have also laid a solid foundation for sustainable development, reducing restiveness and creating viable opportunities for the youth.

    “It is regrettable that faceless individuals, driven by selfish political and economic interests, are sponsoring groups in Abuja to malign the reputation of a man whose only crime is his unwavering commitment to the Niger Delta cause.

    “These coordinated smear campaigns are deliberate distractions aimed at halting the remarkable progress and transformative policies implemented under Chief Otuaro’s administration.

    “The Niger Delta region cannot afford to be swayed by deceitful narratives peddled by those who prioritise personal enrichment over collective development.

    “We must recognize the deliberate attempts to create division and instability in a region that has long struggled for peace and progress. The orchestrated attacks against Chief Otuaro must be rejected with the firmness they deserve”.

    Fayeofori said all stakeholders in the Niger Delta including the Ijaw Youth Council and the Ijaw Youth Consultative Forum (IYCF) were solidly behind Otuaro and had dismissed the allegations as wild, ridiculous, and completely unfounded.

    “The public is therefore urged to disregard these misleading reports and instead continue to rally behind the transformational leadership of Chief Otuaro, whose dedication to fulfilling the mandate of the PAP remains resolute. His visionary approach to governance and youth empowerment must not be derailed by unfounded distractions”, he said.

    Fayeofori said rather than resorting to deceit and character assassination, individuals and groups with genuine concerns should engage through proper channels to seek clarification.

    He said the Niger Delta region needed unity, constructive dialogue, and responsible leadership and reaffirmed the youth’s unwavering and absolute support for Otuaro and the PAP.

    He said: “As Niger Deltans, we must remain vigilant and ensure that the progress made under Chief Dennis Burutu Otuaro’s leadership is not sabotaged by those whose interests lie in division and economic exploitation. The region cannot afford to be dragged backward by the schemes of individuals who do not have its best interests at heart.”

  • N/Delta youth leaders express concerns over Project Hope implementation delays

    N/Delta youth leaders express concerns over Project Hope implementation delays

    Some Niger Delta youth Leaders have expressed deep concern over the delays in the implementation of “Project Hope” after it was launched over one year ago.

    The Leaders who spoke during a chat with journalists in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital yesterday said there are so much questions, bottled up agitations and insinuations among the people of the region as to why the programme is being delayed after the much funfair that heralded the launch and relaunch (double launch of phase 1 and 2), raising hopes of the people of the region.

    The speakers, Amb. Isaac Green and Alfred Etuk in their separate interviews expressed the fears that with the way questions are being asked and comments being made at various youth quarters indicate looming trouble, heavy agitations against the Federal government and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the initiators.

    However, the Resource Consultant and Managing Director (MD/CEO), of the Consulting Firm, D’Consiglories who is implementing the programme, Amb.Blessing Fubara has come to the rescue, after announcing the decision to implementation the Musical Art component of the programme as a cooperate Social Responsibility (CSR), of his company as a way to dowse the clouding trouble.

    Speaking during the chat, Fubara, who is the Lead Consultant and implemetation partner to NDDC, disclosed that his consultancy Firm in agreement with other partners have decided to carey on with the Musical Art component of the project as a Cooperate Social Responsibility (CSR), to the region as a way to buy time, pending the time the Principal partner/implementer (NDDC), will be ready to take on the wholistic execution of the concept as planned.

    The consultant also noted that the decision is also serves as answer to the many silent questions and insinuations making the rounds as to the genuineness of the project.

    He said, “As a company, we want to take up a responsibility that we see as cooperate social responsibility to our region and the people we have made commitment to, while we wait for NDDC’s direction for full implementation of the project.

    “This we’re doing with a sincere gesture, to address the clouded agitations and questions of the youths and people of the region on the state of the project till now; we’re doing this to show our passion and commitment as an indigenous company and people, to the issues bothering around the state of the youths of the region in terms of engagement, employment generation and interventions generally.

    “At this point, lots of questions are being asked in different fora and medium, on why we have launched the implementation of Project Hope severally, yet proper implementation is yet to be felt by the people.

    “For whatever reason we have stayed till this time, without being directed by our principal to commence implementation by our Principal Directors…,while we continue with negotiations internally with prompt and immediate directives from our principals to commence and owing to the levels of agitations, concerns and complaints we have seen out there from the youths and people of the region, which almost is beginning now to want to withdraw the consciousness and hope built by the people to give us a scane and peaceful environment for business to thrive, we’re very worried that we don’t want to go back to that phase where all doubts will again resume, while sincerity of purpose will be doubted.”

    He gave insight on the aspect of the programme tonbe implemented as he said,

    “With this, and after due consultations, we have decided that from today, we have anniunced that from February 18, 2025, we open up a platform for resubmission of arts, contents for the commencement of the Niger Delts Music and Arts project.

    “This were going to undertake as a CSR that we know that in line with our consultations and collaboration commitment of our partners we’re sure, we’re going to implement this to the later, as we have promised the people, while we still look up to futher inclusive and holistic directives from our principal Directors which is the NDDC.

    “From February 28, auditions will commence for the Niger Delta Music and Art Project, starting from Bayelsa State, Delta, Ondo, until it goes round the nine States of the Region,”

    Project Hope is an initiative of the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer(MD/CEO), of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Sam Ogbuku to drive home President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to the people of the Niger Delta region.

    The Project was meant to addressing the basic pressing employment needs of the people of the region, particularly the youths focusing on Information and CommunicationTechnology (ICT), among others, and saw to the online registration of over 3 million Niger Delts youths in various areas of job interests, both professional, skilled, unskilled, Arts and Agriculture.

    Speaking, Green regretted that almost two years after the Presidency has through the NDDC promised the youths Project Hope, the hope is still far fetched.

    He noted that the people of the region are agitating and asking questions of what has become of the programme (Project Hope), noting that the concepts and plans hold a great future for the people, particularly the youths.

    “We, the youths of the region, are not against Dr. Samuel Ogbuku’s leadership of the NNDC, but we’re saying that, it has been like four times he has met with Niger Delta youths where he assured us that project Hope is on course, and our question is, what then is holding it from being implemented, two years after?

    As youth Leaders, we’re totally in agreement with what Project Hope Consultants, D’Consiglories are doing, by the decision to begin to do something around the project, pending when NDDC will wake up from sleep to take on their brainchild.”

    Also speaking Etuk noted that youths of the region applauded and embraced project Hope concept when it was initiated in the early days of Dr. Ogbuku’s adminsitration because of the hope it promised and the passion the propounder initially exhibited.

    He said that the delays currently being experienced currently is raising much concerns.

    “Project Hope is a pet project in line with Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, and this is the reason why when it was announced, the youths embraced it whole heartedly and began to look forward to its implementation.

    “Again, with the passion with which the initiators, the NDDC Board showed was enamous, making it to appear very real and the implementation urgent, but the question in the lips of everyone, the youths at this point is, what is the reason for this unforeseen delays?

    Etuk equally thanked Amb. Fubara, the lead consultant to the project for the decision to take the bull by the horns by going ahead to start off with implementing part of the projects, rather than to continue to wait for their client, the NDDC.

    He stated that the decision has saved the region from the usual protest method of agitation and possible lawlessness.

    He appealed to the youths to be patient with the Lead Consultant and the NDDC, acknowledging the obvious bottle necks and administrative bureaucracy associated with such government programmes and events.