The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • 2027: Diri, Lokpobiri lead APC e-registration drive in Bayelsa, vow to deliver state for Tinubu

    2027: Diri, Lokpobiri lead APC e-registration drive in Bayelsa, vow to deliver state for Tinubu

    Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, alongside the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has taken centre stage in the All Progressives Congress (APC) e-registration drive aimed at consolidating the party’s membership across the state.

    Governor Diri, speaking at the official flag-off, emphasised the importance of unity and mass registration for the party. 

    He reminded participants that APC’s symbol—the broom—represents strength in togetherness. “You can easily break a single broomstick, but when all the sticks come together, they are unbreakable,” he said.

    The governor urged all APC members, both long-standing and recent defectors, to register formally. 

    “We are not a small state,” he asserted, encouraging members to increase party numbers and ensure APC remains the dominant political force in the region. He also stressed the need for members to possess both their APC membership cards and valid INEC voter cards, highlighting that this would safeguard the party’s integrity and prevent vote manipulation.

    Read Also: Oil fields dispute: Court orders Lokpobiri, others to maintain status quo

    Senator Lokpobiri described the electronic registration as a defining step toward party unity, strength, and electoral success.

    Addressing party stakeholders, he noted that the gathering marked a historic moment, bringing together leaders who had not worked collaboratively for years due to political differences. 

    “This exercise enables APC to accurately determine its support base in Bayelsa and better organise its structure ahead of future elections,” he said.

    Lokpobiri vows to deliver all elective offices for APC and return President Tinubu elected in 2027.

    Lokpobiri commended Governor Diri for his leadership and reconciliatory approach, which he said had restored harmony within the party. 

    “Through dialogue and personal intervention, the Governor persuaded party leaders to make compromises and embrace a new spirit of cooperation,” he noted, adding that former rivals were now working collectively toward shared goals.

    Describing APC in Bayelsa as united and indivisible, the minister stressed that the party now operates with a common objective of winning all elective positions. 

    He urged party leaders and stakeholders to mobilize their supporters for the e-registration exercise, emphasizing that active participation would position the party for greater success and stability in the state.

    Governor Diri also reminded attendees that political parties should foster development, not disunity. “Before political parties, we were all Bayelsans. Differences in party affiliations should not separate us; they should help us grow and develop,” he said.

    The event concluded with both leaders calling on party members to return to their constituencies, mobilize supporters, and ensure broad participation in the APC e-registration. The exercise, they noted, would not only strength. 

  • Otu swears In Egbung as Bekwarra chairman, canvasses unity, good governance

    Otu swears In Egbung as Bekwarra chairman, canvasses unity, good governance

    Cross River Governor Bassey Otu has sworn in Hon. Egbung as Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, charging him to lead with humility, unity of purpose and commitment to service.

    The swearing-in ceremony, which marked the formal resolution of the leadership crisis in the council, was also used by the Governor to set the tone for governance in the New Year.

    Otu emphasised the strategic importance of local government administration, describing it as the tier of government closest to the people and critical to grassroots development.

    He said the All Progressives Congress (APC) places premium value on effective local governance because of its direct impact on communities, families and everyday livelihoods.

    Reflecting on the transition in Bekwarra, the Governor commended party leaders, stakeholders and government institutions for managing the process peacefully and orderly, without disruption. He praised the maturity displayed by the APC leadership in the local government, noting that their conduct helped preserve unity and stability.

    “Position is not given for you to exert power or become an emperor. Position is for you to serve the people,” Otu said, reminding the new chairman that leadership is a call to responsibility, compassion and accountability, especially to the most vulnerable in society.

    The Governor expressed confidence in Egbung’s capacity to deliver, citing his experience, character and steady performance while acting in the role. He described the new chairman as a product of due process who understands governance from the ground up and has earned the trust and support of his people.

    Otu further revealed that Bekwarra remains a key part of the administration’s economic vision for Northern Cross River, assuring that ongoing and future initiatives would reposition the area for growth and shared prosperity. He called for sincerity of purpose, seriousness in governance and collective commitment to development.

    He congratulated Egbung and family, urging them to see the new responsibility as service to God, the state and the people of Bekwarra, while expressing optimism that better days lie ahead for Cross River State.

    Egbung expressed profound gratitude to God for what he described as an eventful and fulfilling day, assuring the people of Bekwarra and Cross River State of his readiness to serve diligently and responsibly.

    He said his administration would be guided strictly by the rules of engagement, transparency and commitment to the welfare of the people.

    Describing the new year as one of renewed energy and purpose, Egbung urged the people of Bekwarra to prepare for hard work and collective progress, stressing that the time for complacency was over.

    He noted that leadership to him simply means service, adding that he has lived a life dedicated to serving others and would continue in that spirit as chairman of council.

  • PAP Administrator Otuaro attends Oporoza community New Year celebration

    PAP Administrator Otuaro attends Oporoza community New Year celebration

    The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dennis Otuaro, has told Nigerians to prepare for a year of economic progress and stability. 

    Otuaro spoke after attending the New Year celebration of the Oporoza community on Friday. 

    The Oporoza community, the traditional headquarter of Gbaramatu kingdom, holds its New Year celebration annually. 

    Speaking after this year’s edition, Dennis said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is moving Nigeria in the right direction. 

    Read Also: Okowa, Otuaro meet, pray for Delta’s peace, unity and sustained devt

    He added that this year, many Nigerians will reap the benefits of the administration economic and political policies. 

    “2026 will be a great year for our country across board. From economy to peace, we will record tremendous progress thanks to the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he noted.

  • Akpabio aide takes Senate President’s free medical outreach to Lagos, targets 700 beneficiaries

    Akpabio aide takes Senate President’s free medical outreach to Lagos, targets 700 beneficiaries

    Residents of Surulere, Lagos State, on Saturday trooped out in large numbers to benefit from a free medical outreach organised under the Akpabio Cares Initiative, a philanthropic programme driven by the office of the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    The outreach, which offered free medical consultations, drugs and eyeglasses, is the third edition of the initiative in two years, following similar interventions in Osogbo, Osun State, and Yankaba, Kano State.

    A large number of vulnerable residents accessed essential healthcare services at no cost during the exercise.

    Speaking to journalists at the event, the convener of the initiative and Senior Legislative Aide to the President of the Senate, Mr Ahmed Tijani Mustapha, said the outreach was part of efforts to give back to society, stressing that good health remains one of the most valuable gifts to humanity.

    According to him, the Lagos edition of the programme was designed to reach about 700 beneficiaries, who would receive free medical consultations, prescribed drugs and eyeglasses.

    “We are doing this as a way of giving back to society, and we believe that the best gift is that of good health,” Mustapha said.

    Addressing questions on why the outreach was held in Lagos rather than in Senator Akpabio’s home state of Akwa Ibom, Mustapha explained that the office of the Senate President has a national outlook.

    “Senator Godswill Akpabio is the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and his impact must be felt across the country,” he said.

    Beneficiaries of the outreach expressed appreciation to Senator Akpabio and the organisers for the intervention, describing it as timely and impactful.

    One of the beneficiaries thanked the Senate President for remembering the community, saying the initiative had brought relief to many residents who could not afford basic healthcare services.

    Another beneficiary lauded the appointment of Mustapha as an aide to the Senate President, noting that his connection to the community had helped attract what he described as dividends of democracy to the area.

    At the end of the exercise, Mustapha disclosed that the next phase of the Akpabio Cares Initiative would move to the North Central geopolitical zone, as the programme continues its humanitarian outreach across the country.

  • City Boy Movement appoints state, diaspora directors aheadof 2027 elections

    City Boy Movement appoints state, diaspora directors aheadof 2027 elections

    As part of its nationwide consolidation and strategic build-up towards the 2027 general elections, a support group, the City Boy Movement, has approved the appointment of state and diaspora directors to drive its operations.

    The approval, which takes effect from January 1, 2026, was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday by the Director-General of the Movement, Hon. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga.

    Shoga said the appointments are aimed at strengthening grassroots structures, improving internal coordination, enhancing youth mobilisation and promoting disciplined political engagement across the federation and in the diaspora.

    He explained that the exercise followed extensive consultations, harmonisation and internal review processes, underscoring the Movement’s commitment to structure, unity and effective leadership at all levels.

    Shoga charged the newly appointed directors to be ready to play critical roles in positioning the Movement for greater organisational strength and political impact ahead of the 2027 polls.

    He also urged members of the Movement to accord the new directors maximum cooperation and support as the organisation deepens its commitment to unity, discipline and purposeful political engagement in line with the Renewed Hope agenda.

    Read Also: Okpebholo backs Tinubu’s economic reforms as City Boy Movement pledges 10 million votes

    Those appointed include Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao Akala (Oyo), Hon. Dr. Musa Ahmed Mohammed (Nasarawa), Moyosore Adedoyin Ogunlewe (Lagos), Hon. Tiza Isaac Imojime Orya (Benue), Chief Nwaneri Goodluck Chidera (Imo), Hon. Paddy Iyamu (Edo), Hon. Bitrus Laurence Garki (Federal Capital Territory), Mr. David Daser (Plateau), Baba Rauf Abdulrazaq (Kwara) and Hon. Akintunde Abidemi Oludayo (Diaspora).

    Others are Sulaiman Saad Ribadu (SAN) (Adamawa), Chief Victor Thompson (Akwa Ibom), Dr. Bala Maijamaa Wunti (Bauchi), Hon. Gorou Karo (Delta), Amb. Ogah Okpanachi Mark (Kogi), Hon. Ayodele Olawande (Ondo), Prince Ayorinde Ejioye (Ekiti), Rt. Hon. Haruna Aliyu (Jigawa), Mutawalle Kachala Barko (Yobe), Rt. Hon. Babagana Goni Bukar (Borno) and Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata (Kano).

    Meanwhile, Shoga said appointments for the remaining states and diaspora chapters would be announced in due course as the ongoing consolidation process is concluded.

  • Niger Delta ex-agitators back U.S. military operations against terrorists

    Niger Delta ex-agitators back U.S. military operations against terrorists

    Former members of the defunct Niger Delta Liberation Force have declared support for the United States’ military operations against terrorists in northern Nigeria, while cautioning that continued neglect of the Niger Delta could trigger renewed unrest.

    In a statement signed by its former spokesman, Capt. Mark Anthony, the group said terrorism had claimed countless Nigerian lives and commended the U.S. for its role in confronting the threat.

    “We commend and support the ongoing U.S. military operations against terrorists in Northern Nigeria,” the statement said.

    The former agitators clarified that their past armed struggle was driven by economic concerns, particularly demands for inclusion in resource control, and stressed that they never targeted civilians.

    “Our fight was for survival, not for the killing of innocent Nigerians,” they stated.

    Read Also: U.S., Nigeria get kudos on joint strike on terrorists

    They also praised the Nigerian government for awarding pipeline surveillance contracts to Tantita Security Services Limited and other former fighters, noting that the initiative had contributed to the protection of oil infrastructure and the maintenance of peace in the Niger Delta.

    However, the group warned that the relative calm in the region remained fragile, pointing to persistent underdevelopment in many oil-producing communities.

    According to the statement, inadequate infrastructure, lack of access to clean water, healthcare, roads, and electricity continue to fuel discontent across the Niger Delta.

    The group further urged the Niger Delta Development Commission to live up to its mandate, warning that underdevelopment in the Niger Delta constitutes a serious security concern not only for Nigeria but for the global community.

  • Cross River Rep Abang presents midterm scorecard, distributes N48m yuletide gifts

    Cross River Rep Abang presents midterm scorecard, distributes N48m yuletide gifts

    A member of the House of Representatives representing Boki–Ikom Federal Constituency of Cross River State, Victor Abang, has presented his midterm report to constituents and distributed Christmas gifts valued at N48 million across the constituency.

    Abang presented the report during a series of town hall meetings and briefings, explaining that the exercise was aimed at promoting transparency, strengthening accountability and enabling constituents to assess his performance in office.

    He said the initiative was also designed to counter misinformation, particularly on social media, by presenting verifiable facts about his legislative and constituency activities. 

    According to him, the realities of governance often differ from campaign promises, making it important for elected officials to regularly engage with the people.

    Highlighting key achievements, the lawmaker said his interventions had expanded telecommunications coverage to rural areas, with 35 communities now connected to telecom masts, a development he noted had improved communication and boosted economic activities.

    On border security, Abang recalled sponsoring a motion on July 5, 2023, on the Nigeria–Cameroon boundary dispute affecting communities in Cross River State. 

    He said the motion, which received broad support in the House, led to the establishment of an ad hoc committee and prompted the Federal Government to halt a demarcation exercise that could have resulted in Nigeria losing over 10,000 hectares of land to Cameroon, including parts of Biajua and Danare communities.

    He explained that the demarcation exercise had ignored established colonial boundary markers, including Pillar 113A, warning that failure to intervene would have led to significant territorial losses.

    In the health sector, Abang said he facilitated the provision of medical equipment valued at over N300 million to the Primary Health Centre in Abo Ebam and also supported the Federal Medical Centre within the constituency.

    The lawmaker further disclosed that he sponsored the National Park Service Amendment Bill, which seeks to establish the Okwangwo National Park Unit. He said the proposed unit would enhance conservation efforts, create jobs and ensure host communities benefit from eco-tourism.

    According to him, engagements are ongoing with national and international partners to secure approvals for supporting infrastructure, including access roads within the park.

    Abang also unveiled a compendium of his legislative and constituency activities titled The Banjuere, which documents projects executed during his first two years in the National Assembly. 

    These include the construction of a mini-stadium, expansion of telecommunications infrastructure and various health interventions.

    He said the distribution of Christmas gifts worth N48 million was part of his commitment to delivering democratic dividends and easing economic pressures on constituents during the festive season, assuring them that more bills, motions and constituency-based projects were underway.

  • Delta Police chief commissions ultra modern Warri Area Command complex

    Delta Police chief commissions ultra modern Warri Area Command complex

    The outgoing Delta Police Commissioner, AIG Olufemi Abaniwonda, has applauded the various stakeholders who contributed in the building of a befitting Warri Area Command office, describing it as a testament to a cordial working relationship between police and the residents of the area.

    Speaking during commissioning of the ultra-modern Area Command office complex in Warri on Monday, AIG Abaniwonda, who was performing his first official assignment in his new rank of an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), noted that what was being witnessed was part of the vision for initiating community policing two decades ago.

    While commending the Warri Area Commander, ACP Graham Imade, for ensuring the completion of the building project within two years of assuming office, the Police boss lauded the residents of the area, especially the traditional institutions, individuals, corporate bodies and groups who contributed towards the completion of the building project.

    He urged other officers to also take advantage of the good relationship built with the residents of their immediate communities to initiate ideas that would support policing operations in such places, inorder for the men and officers to be able to effectively perform their duties of securing lives and property in those areas for the good of the law abiding residents.

    Imade said he was challenged to take up the responsibility of completing the office complex on assumption of office to see that the Command’s was still operating in the same small building that had been there for decades and no longer befitting for its status.

    According to him: “When I assumed responsibility as the Area Commander, Warri, I felt the urgent need to improve the working environment of my Police personnel by intervening in the infrastructures which at that time, were not befitting the status of the Area Command. 

    “With this motivation in mind, I reached out to some friends and critical stakeholders forsupport in achieving the dream. It’s a well known fact that security is everyone business and the foundation upon which development thrives. 

    Read Also: Again, police suspend enforcement of vehicle tinted glass permit

    “When our people feel secured, businesses flourish, investments grow, and communities prosper. Warri is a cosmopolitan city known for its vibrant economy, rich culture, and resilient spirit”.

    “It is therefore important that this city benefits from a security infrastructure befitting its status and future aspirations”.

    “My AIG Sir, our Royal Fathers, esteemed invited guests, Critical Stakeholders, and most importantly, our brave men and women in black and blue, I am honored to welcome you all to this grand opening ceremony.”

    Continuing, he said: “This facility represent a beacon of hope, a symbol of excellence, and a promise of protection, It’s a place where our dedicated officer will work tirelessly to serve and protect, utilizing cutting-edge technology and innovation strategies to keep our neighborhood safe”.

    “The building we are commissioning today, consists of 10 new offices, One Armoury, a spacious hall for meetings and training, and thirteen toilets.

     “At this juncture, I want to commend and express our deepest gratitude to our traditional leaders, very distinguished community leaders and friends, government functionaries, stakeholders, and all individuals who contributed materially and financially, to the construction of this magnificent building. 

    “Your generosity and commitment to the safety of our community are truly commendable. Your investment in the facility is a testament to the power of community spirit and the impact we can have when we work together. This partnership reminds us that progress is fastest when we build together.

    “To the officers and men of this Area Command, I salute you! Your hard work, dedication, contributions and sacrifice, have not gone unnoticed. You are the backbone of our community, and I appreciate your tireless efforts to keep the community safe”.

    “This facility is not a building; it’s symbol of our collective commitment to excellence, and I have no doubt that we will make the best use”.

    “As we commission this facility, I urge everyone to continue working together to build a safer, more secure, and prosperous community for all. Let’s keep striving for excellence, and let’s keep pushing the boundaries for what is possible! Don’t forget that “if you see something, say something.”

  • 2026 holds new hope for Delta Central, Dafinone assures

    2026 holds new hope for Delta Central, Dafinone assures

    Senator Ede Dafinone has assured the Delta Central Senatorial District and Urhobo Nation that 2026 holds fresh hope, greater opportunities and accelerated development, expressing it will outperform 2025 based on positive economic indicators. 

    In a New Year message on January 1, the senator noted that while the district may not yet be where it aspires to be, it has made measurable progress driven by resilience and collective determination.

    Dafinone urged residents, particularly those in rural communities, to remain focused and industrious, stressing that local businesses and traditional occupations remain critical to growth and prosperity. 

    He highlighted the existing alignment between the Delta State Government and the Federal Government as a rare opportunity to fast-track development across the state, with Delta Central positioned to benefit significantly.

    Calling for unity and a forward-looking mindset among the Urhobo Nation, the senator reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the Delta State Governor and the Federal Government to ensure that development reaches every part of Delta Central. 

    He expressed confidence that 2026 will be a year marked by progress, inclusion, and renewed hope for the district and its people.

    Read Also: Why Delta APC must unite for 2027, by Dafinone

    According to him: “As we step into the year 2026, I extend my heartfelt goodwill and best wishes to the people of Delta Central Senatorial District and the entire Urhobo Nation. I am very optimistic that this year will be far better than 2025, from available economic indicators.

    “We may not yet be exactly where we aspire to be as a people, but we are certainly not where we used to be. Our collective journey has been marked by progress, resilience, and determination, and this gives me strong confidence that 2026 will be a year of greater opportunity and meaningful advancement.

    “I call on our people, particularly those in our rural communities, to remain steadfast and focused. The people of Delta Central are known for their resourcefulness and industry. I urge you to continue to pursue your businesses and traditional occupations with dedication, as they remain vital to our growth and prosperity.

    “The existing alignment between the Delta State Government and the Federal Government offers a unique opportunity to fast-track development. This synergy, if properly harnessed, will bring tangible benefits to Delta State in general and Delta Central in particular.

    “I urge the Urhobo Nation to remain forward-looking, united, and positive as we embrace the new year. I remain committed to working closely with the Delta State Governor and the Federal Government as partners to ensure that what is due to Delta Central is fully delivered and that development reaches every part of our district.

    “I am confident that 2026 will be a great year for Delta Central and the Urhobo Nation—a year of progress, inclusion, and renewed hope.”

  • Edo businessman disburses cash grants, food items to 1,500 vulnerable women

    Edo businessman disburses cash grants, food items to 1,500 vulnerable women

    • …we will do more next year,  Okoduwa

    A renowned Edo businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Godwin Okoduwa, has disbursed cash grants and food items to over 1,500 vulnerable women, including widows and the less-privileged, as part of his social welfare and women empowerment programme.

    The empowerment , which was held at the Okajiesan Town Hall, Irrua, saw each beneficiary receive ₦100,000 in cash support and a bag of rice, aimed at easing economic hardship and improving household stability.

    Speaking during the event, Okoduwa said, “This is Uwesan in Esan Central. What am doing now is empowering our people; women especially. It’s a personal effort, I am not a politician. I am a businessman; infact, a trader. I feel like giving back to the society. I have been doing it, this is not my first time”.

    He said the initiative was designed to enhance the social and economic welfare of the most vulnerable members of society, particularly widows who bear the burden of family survival under difficult circumstances.

    His words, “The empowerment of widows and less privileged women is not just a moral duty, but a social responsibility that we take very seriously. We recognize the difficult circumstances many of these women face after losing their loved ones, including economic hardship and social exclusion,” he said.

    According to him, the programme goes beyond temporary relief and is structured to restore dignity, hope, and opportunity, enabling beneficiaries to become economically self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the development of Edo State.

    “This empowerment is not just about providing financial resources, but about creating sustainable opportunities that will allow these women to support themselves and their families,” Okoduwa added.

    Some beneficiaries described the intervention as timely and life-changing, noting that the support would help them expand small businesses, meet family needs, and regain confidence.

    Organisers including Mrs. Okoduwa said the programme forms part of a multi-year empowerment plan, with assurances that more phases will be expanded to reach more persons.

    Community leaders and stakeholders present at the event lauded the initiative for its organisation, transparency, and scale.

    “The impact of this programme will not end today,” Hon. Linda Omonzele. “Empowered women change the narrative of their families and communities. Today, more than 1,500 families have a stronger chance at stability.”

    “For many of us, this is not just money or rice,” said one beneficiary. “This is hope. This is opportunity to build something better for our children.”

    Recipients also noted that the rice donation provided quick relief for families struggling with food costs, while the cash grant offered them flexibility to invest in petty trading, hairdressing, tailoring, farming inputs, transportation, or school fees.