The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Niger Delta international festival and economic investment summit holds

    Niger Delta international festival and economic investment summit holds

    Arrangements are ongoing to host the mother of all trade expo and investment being organised by the Niger Delta International Festival & Trade Expo (NDIFTE). 

    The twin event, the Niger Delta International Festival & Trade Expo and Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit is in partnership with the Ministry of Niger Delta. 

    Speaking with newsmen in Abuja shortly after signing an MoU with the Ministry, the founder of NDIFTE, Amb. Amb Kenule Nwiya, said the festival and trade expo is strategically designed to give back to the people of the region by way of economic empowerment, rich cultural display, trade expo and more. 

    The Permanent Secretary in charge of the Ministry, Dr Shuaib Belgore signed the MoU on behalf of the Minister. 

    “We will have the charity medical outreach, as well as lots of empowerment programmes in line with the festival’s show structure. 

    “Of course the empowerment is something that we have designed to enhance small, medium scale enterprises and empower our people in this sub-sector of the economy. That is not all, people that promote our local foods, they will also be empowered. 

    “There will be a lot of pitch around this cycle, they will showcase their local foods, local fabrics and whatever it is that oils the wheel of their economy. This is what we intend to do and this is the kind of empowerment that has sustainable integration,” he stated. 

    According to Nwiya, this is in pursuit of the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) number 1 which borders on the eradication of extreme poverty for all people everywhere, currently measured as people living on less $2.15 a day. 

    According to him, building a sustainable means of livelihood is the world standard practice which NDIFTE pushes for. 

    He also urged other stakeholders and investors to partner with his organization to re-invigorate the cultural and economic life of the people. 

    Other events put in place to stir proper grassroot engagement include, boat regatta, wrestling competition, beauty pageant, festival parade and trade fair. 

    Others are festival golf tournament, novelty football match, polo tournament and more, all heralding the event to showcase the rich culture of the people. 

    The much anticipated twin event holds as follows; Investment and Economic Summit in Akwa ibom State in May 2024 while Niger Delta international Festival and trade Expo in Warri Delta state in December 2024.

  • Dafinone calls for calm over killing of soldiers, young men in Okuama crisis

    Dafinone calls for calm over killing of soldiers, young men in Okuama crisis

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has called on those involved in the ongoing carnage at Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area to sheath their swords for the sake of humanity.

    He also called on the State and Federal Government to urgently intervene to de-escalate the criss which according to available reports has allegedly claimed more than 18 lives including that of soldiers.

    The leadership of Okuama Community had raised the alarm of alleged military invasion on Thursday  following a land dispute with neighboring community of Okoloba in Bomadi local government area which led to the death of three young men, with women and children displaced as well as many building razed.

    The Nigerian army in a statement by Acting Director, Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, alleged that Commanding officer, two Majors, one Captain and 12 soldiers, who went on a peace mission were killed by Okuama people

    Senator Dafinone, while reacting to the report on the death of the soldiers, three Okuama youths and the alleged burning down of property in Okuama community, described the incident as very unfortunate.

    While sympathizing with the military authorities over the loss of their men, he called on them to observe the military rules of engagement while dealing with civilians.

    He also called on the leaders and residents of Okuama to remain calm, urging the Federal and State governmenit to expedite action to arrest the ugly situation from degenerating into another humanitarian crisis.

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    According to Dafinone,: “I want to appeal for calm by the waring factions in the unfortunate incident that occurred in Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday and Friday leading to the needless death of about 18 persons including soldiers.

    “The federal government must as a matter of urgency set up a high power independent panel to investigate the remote causes of this crisis, in order to bring whoever that may be involved in the killing of Nigerian civilians and soldiers to be brought to book.

    “I wish to appeal to the authority of the Nigerian army to act discreetly in this situation , that they should not allow their emotions take better part of their professional judgement by toning down their operations and observed the rules of engagement while dealing with civilians at Okuama.

    “I also wish to call on our people in Okuama to shun any act of violence that could further escalate this crisis, which could have been avoided if both parties allowed reason to prevail.

    “The National Emergency Management Agency, should also reach out and provide relief materials to the people of Okuama, many of whom have been rendered homeless and are now living in surrounding bushes.”

  • Kalu hails diplomatic ties with Japan, says Nigeria ready for FDIs

    Kalu hails diplomatic ties with Japan, says Nigeria ready for FDIs

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu has asserted the readiness of the parliament to amend the extant laws to give more confidence in investors and allow for direct foreign investments. 

    Kalu also said that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has provided the enabling environment and therefore, open to foreign investments. 

    The Deputy Speaker gave the assurance while speaking at the 64th birthday celebration of His Majesty, the Emperor of Japan,  Prince Hiro Naruhito in Abuja. 

    A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu on Friday in Abuja explained that Kalu appreciated the long existing diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Japan, urging the Asian country and indeed, the global community to leverage the opportunities provided by the current administration and invest more in Nigeria.

    “I want to congratulate the king of Japan who turned 64. It’s worthy of celebrating. If you look around, you will see the level of acceptance. It shows we love Japan. 

    “We love Japanese and the ambassador. The relationship so far, we are the home for primary products but it’s about time we use their technology to add more value to their primary products. 

    “Lots of resources are here. Japan is blessed with technology. They have been doing well with military assistance, communication equipment and the rest of them. We want to do more.

    “This place is now open for business. The President is in charge. He is a president that came out of the private sector. He understands the role of the private sector in any economy. Japan should not be left out. I trust the ambassador here, his relationship skill is wonderful. I know he’s going to convince a lot of them in Japan to come on board with foreign direct investments because soft landing has been created. The willingness of the President to make sure that every bottleneck is removed is guaranteed. 

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    “We can assure you from the parliament that every legislative impediment that will affect investors coming into our country, we are willing to finetune the laws to make sure through legislative interventions that will give more confidence to investors like those coming from Japan.

    “On behalf of the legislature and government, we are inviting Japan as we celebrate the birthday of their king. Nigeria awaits more investments. We will continue to improve on our sustainable diplomatic relationship with Japan and nothing will break that.

    “Let us make sure this relationship will reduce our unemployment rate, through innovation that will be ushered in by the technology that’s found in Japan. What innovation does is that it questions tradition and ushers in more productivity. 

    “Finally, with the desire of the current administration to fight food insecurity, it’s about time we have a strategic relationship with Japan to be able to produce more food for our people to drive away hunger,” Kalu said. 

  • Tinubu has given us mandate to complete all legacy projects in Niger Delta, says Ogbuku

    Tinubu has given us mandate to complete all legacy projects in Niger Delta, says Ogbuku

    The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has said that President Bola Tinubu, gave the commission the mandate to complete all abandoned legacy projects in the region.

    Ogbuku assured that following the directive, the commission would complete its Regional Specialist Cardiovascular and Orthopedic Hospital in Port Harcourt, Rivers state and partner with medical experts to run the facility.

    Speaking after inspecting the Niger Delta Regional Specialist Hospital, Ogbuku assured that the project would be completed and fitted with the best medical equipment before the end of the year.

    Ogbuku, who was accompanied by the executive director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai and other directors of the commission, explained that the health facility would also meet international standards.

    The NDDC boss in a statement signed by the commission’s Director, Corporate Affairs, Pius Ughakpoteni, said: “We need specialists who will work with us on this project. President Bola Tinubu has given us the mandate to complete all legacy projects for the people of the Niger Delta region and we are committed to ensuring that we discharge our responsibility in this regard.

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    “NDDC will go into partnership with specialists that will put heads together to put the finishing touches to what is on the ground for proper services. We will not be able to handle that aspect and that is the reason we will bring people with international pedigree to run the facility.”

    Ogbuku noted the inherent dangers of cardiovascular disease and the rampant cases of accidents saying the current NDDC Board would put an end to the problem of abandoned projects in the Niger Delta region.

    He said: “This is a massive project and we will endeavoür to complete it for the benefit of the people of the region and other Nigerians.”

    Briefing the Managing Director on the project, the Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, affirmed that the specialist hospital would have a direct impact on the lives of the people.

    He observed that the hospital, with Orthopedic and Cardiovascular units, would deal with the correction of injuries to the skeletal system, associated muscles, joints and ligaments, while the cardiovascular unit would treat heart problems prevalent in the region.

    Antai noted that the hospital would bring quality healthcare closer to the people and enhance the federal government’s capacity in healthcare delivery.

    He said: “We want a situation where inhabitants of the Niger Delta would access world-class medical facilities within the region.”

  • Ex-agitators commend Tinubu over appointment of Otuaro as new amnesty boss

    Ex-agitators commend Tinubu over appointment of Otuaro as new amnesty boss

    South South Coordinator of The Asiwaju Group, one of the campaign arms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 election, Pastor Reuben Wilson, has expressed satisfaction with appointment of Dr Dennis Brutu Otuaro as the new coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP.

    According to the former freedom fighter, the agency will begin to have a fresh and reinvigorated start, says the South-South Coordinator of the The Asiwaju Group (TAG), Pastor Reuben Wilson.

    Wilson, who is also the founder, Pastor Reuben Initiative for Good Leadership and Accountability (PRIFGLA), has been on the forefront of campaign for the removal of the immediate past coordinator, retired Gen Barry Ndiomu.

    On Thursday, Tinubu announced Otuaro, a former activist in the Niger Delta as the new helmsman, a development that Wilson said was in the best interest of the region and its people, particularly beneficiaries of the amnesty scheme.

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    He said in a statement on Friday that Otuaro’s appointment “is of great joy to me because you are ‘a round peg in a round hole’. You have been part of the struggle for the survival of the Niger Delta people from the beginning and therefore, knows what to do to revitalize and reposition the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

    “You are adequately prepared and has the requisite experience and knowledge to successfully pilot the affairs of the Presidential Amnesty office. I’m incurably optimistic that you shall successfully redeem and redirect the office to achieve its primary and fundamental objectives and programmes. 

    “I know that with your appointment as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, the era of the true beneficiaries of the programme being abandoned and relegated to the background while non-beneficiaries getting included in the programme and being given priority attention is over .

    “You played a crucial role in the activities that led to the establishment of the programme and therefore, wouldn’t allow the programme to continue its derailment and bastardization under your watch. I wish to also use this medium to profoundly thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing Chief Dennis Brutu Otuaro as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.” 

    Wilson, a former freedom fighter, who commended Tinubu for choosing someone he called one of the best hands in the region for the office, said: “Mr President has once more, eloquently demonstrated his knack for identifying and appointing talented and competent people to drive his vision for the betterment of the country.”

    He said Tinubu had demonstrated that he was a listening president, having heeded wise counsel on the need to have people in Otuaro’s ilk, to be in charge of the federal government agency.

    He said: “I commend you wholeheartedly your Excellency, Sir, for listening to the yearnings of the true beneficiaries and stakeholders of the Presidential Amnesty Programme by appointing a thoroughbred and well-prepared stakeholder to pilot the affairs of the Presidential Amnesty Office.”

  • Gov Otu appoints Nation’s correspondent as CPS

    Gov Otu appoints Nation’s correspondent as CPS

    Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River has approved the appointment of The Nation’s correspondent in the state, Nsa Gill, as his new Chief Press Secretary. 

    Until his appointment, Gill was the Cross River state chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ). 

    The appointment which was with immediate effect was contained in a statement signed by Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Secretary to the State Government on Monday, March 11,:in Calabar.

    Otu who had earlier approved the appointment of 83 aides reassigned his former CPS, Emmanuel Ogbeche to the post of special adviser, media to the Governor in Abuja and Linus Obogo as special adviser, media and publicity.

    The governor also suspended Uko Inaku as chairman of Cross River Civil Service Commission while appointing Maurice Effiwat as the Acting chairman of the Commission.

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    Also, he confirmed the appointment of Mr Abang Otu as the State Chief of Protocol and Mr Edwin Okon as Chairman, Cross River Internal Revenue Service.

    While congratulating the new appointees, Otu wished them success in their new portfolios.

  • IWD: Olokode-Ayelabola urges Tinubu to implement 35% affirmative action

    IWD: Olokode-Ayelabola urges Tinubu to implement 35% affirmative action

    Chairperson and Convener of Asiwaju Renewed Hope (ARH’23), Kemi Olokode-Ayelabola has added her voice to celebration of the 2024 edition of International Women’s Day anniversary with the theme ‘Inspire inclusion’.

    Olokode-Ayelabola, a resident of Republic of Ireland mobilised and campaigned for Tinubu during the February 2023 presidential poll. 

    She led the celebration as a mother and behavioral, developmental and child/young persons care professional, congratulating women all over the world and particularly in Nigeria for their immense contributions towards societal cohesion and national development.

    In a statement to newsmen on Thursday, she said:

    “March 8 is a day women are celebrated globally and today we thank God for counting us worthy to be alive to commemorate this auspicious day that seeks to honour womanhood, eliminate gender bias in the workplace, promote gender equality and create a socially-valued opportunities, resources and rewards.”

    While reacting to the campaign theme Inspire Inclusion, she emphasizes the importance of diversity and empowerment in all aspects of society.

    “The 2024 theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality. It calls for action to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected. It also encourages everyone to recognize the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life, including those from marginalized communities.

    “This is also a period to take stock of the work that needs to be done, and of course in Nigeria, we must redouble our efforts in engaging relevant stakeholders that can help in driving the processes of giving women our place of pride across the board. We need to continue to push until we change the mindset of people and improve the participation of women in politics and in other positions of leadership

    “God did not make a mistake by creating a woman. He didn’t create a woman to be trampled upon. He created women to be a help-mate, a partner in progress. This is also a reminder to Nigerian men and everyone to join hands together and move the issue of women forward,’’ she said.

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    She appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step up the full implementation of 35% affirmative action of women in public governance and leadership. 

    “It will be uncharitable for anyone to say President Bola Tinubu has not placed high premium on women empowerment in the scheme of things, however I am of the opinion that he should also speed up the full implementation of the 35% affirmative action of women in public governance and leadership. 

    “He is one leader known for recognizing the invaluable role women have played and still playing in advancing the progress of the country since independence.

    “I also appeal to this well-intentioned administration to focus more in appreciating the hard work and dedication of Nigerian women working tirelessly and achieving results in different fields of endeavor, from those sacrificing daily in the markets and farms to train the next generation of leaders, to those breaking limits in education, sports, medical field, arts, entertainment and even in politics, where they are still largely under-represented. 

    “The narrative needs to change in the positive direction for the womenfolk and truly women should be properly cared for, appreciated, celebrated and rewarded because of our pivotal roles in societal development and growth,” she stated.

  • Edo Guber Race: Can a White Knight Win It?

    Edo Guber Race: Can a White Knight Win It?

    By Gilbert Osas 

    As the political climate heats up in anticipation of the September 2024 Edo gubernatorial election, the mainstream narrative revolves around the established trio of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party (LP).

    However, beneath this predictable surface lies the potential for a white knight – an unexpected and unconventional candidate who could redefine the political landscape in Edo State.

    In past elections, Edo State has a track record of voters favouring personalities over political parties. This trend could disrupt the apparent dominance of the traditional top three parties, opening doors for an unforeseen contender with genuine capacity, a proven track record, and ample funding to emerge victorious. That is what many refer to as the White Knight effect as the elections draw near. Although, no one can say for sure who that could possibly be within the sea of top candidates presently vying for the post.

    However, there are several powerful factors that would determine this. First is the Obidients Factor. The influence of the Obidients, a group associated with Peter Obi, cannot be underestimated. Their role in securing a remarkable 90% victory for the Labour Party in Edo during the previous presidential election showcases their sway.

    Aligning with the Obidients and tapping into the discontent within the major parties could lead to a surprising win for a dark horse in the gubernatorial race.

    What this means is that the battle for the governorship race goes beyond the present permutations that it would be a contest for the top three. The struggle for the number three slot extends beyond the mainstream trio, with smaller parties like the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Action Alliance (AA), Zenith Labour, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) entering the fray. This is fuelled by the displacement of top talent from major parties and internal crises within these political giants.

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    While Asue Ighodalo of PDP, Monday Okpebholo of APC, and Olumide Akpata of Labour take centre stage as gladiators, a tectonic shift in political behaviour is evident in Edo State. The emergence of Akpata in Labour, despite opposition from party leadership, indicates a potential political tsunami. Giants sidelined by an alleged rigged process within their parties may either move on or stage a comeback, possibly revitalizing smaller parties to challenge the status quo.

    A seasoned politician and pastor, Ize-Iyamu, disenfranchised within the APC, adds an intriguing dynamic to the race. There is also influence of Anselm Ojezua, a grassroots politician reportedly upset with the current governor. Ojezua has secured funding to challenge from outside the PDP. And then, there is Prince Tom Iseghohi: A business mogul and charismatic leader, he withdrew from the Labour Party primaries and intends to pursue his gubernatorial bid through PUP Culture. Add Dennis Idahosa, a politician with a mysterious loss in the APC primaries, he may not stop at the court and could add further complexity to the race.

    With a projected strategic alliances between the Obidients and disenfranchised members from major parties, there is a likely possibility of an emergency of a formidable force, potentially leading to an unexpected contender securing the gubernatorial win.

    This is more so as the Labour Party has been fractured into four factions and a mere 22,000 membership makes it vulnerable. This creates an opportunity for a new political force to displace Labour on a smaller platform, potentially reshaping the political landscape.

    As Edo State approaches the 2024 gubernatorial election, the focus on mainstream parties may overshadow the potential for a white knight to emerge. Strategic alliances, smaller parties, and the electorate’s inclination towards personalities could make this election one of the most unpredictable and intriguing in recent history. The disenfranchised gladiators, if they play their cards right, may pave the way for a political shift that Edo State never saw coming. Who is The White Knight?  Any of these seven gladiators could emerge as “Governor Elect”.  The white knight is on the horizon, and the chessboard is set for an extraordinary match.

    * Mr. Osas, a political commentator, writes from Abuja

  • Centre hails Ogalla for breakthrough in campaign against oil theft, arrests of criminals

    Centre hails Ogalla for breakthrough in campaign against oil theft, arrests of criminals

    The Centre for African Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights (CALSER) has praised the Chief of Naval Staff, Emmanuel Ogalla and the Navy for achieving breakthroughs in its campaigns against oil theft and arrests of criminals in the country.

    CALSER also hailed Navy for its increased vigilance.

    The centre, at a briefing on Wednesday, in Abuja, also applauded the Navy for their efforts in curtailing oil theft and loss of critical economic assets.

    The Executive Director, Dr Uzah Thomas, said the giant strides recorded by the Navy are due to the exceptional leadership of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla. 

    He said: “It would be recalled that upon assumption of office, the naval chief indeed hit the ground running by rejigging the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy to address the issues of crude oil theft and the safety of critical economic infrastructure on the country’s waterways. 

    “This much has been the case, and the gains recorded so far are tangible and far-reaching in addressing crude oil theft in the country. We wish to state that the Nigerian Navy has indeed risen to the occasion in maintaining a professionally competent and ethical naval force. 

    “This has translated to tangible gains in the war against crude oil theft, which hitherto assumed a dangerous dimension that resulted in severe economic losses to the country. 

    “The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights views the efforts of the Nigerian Navy as commendable in recent times. It further indicates purposeful leadership by the Chief of Naval Staff, who, upon assumption of office, ensured that the Nigerian Navy is re-positioned to deliver on its constitutional mandate to the country. 

    “Therefore, it is no longer news that, in recent times, the Nigerian Navy has recorded outstanding success in the war against crude oil theft. Scores of vessels loaded with stolen crude have been intercepted, and operators of illegal refineries have been arrested and handed over for prosecution. If this tempo continues, crude oil theft will soon be a thing of the past. 

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    “The Chief of Naval Staff has continued to display leadership. This attribute is needed to turn the country’s fortunes around for good. The example set in this case is worthy of emulation by those saddled with leadership positions in the country. 

    “It remains the position of the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socioeconomic Rights that leaders in the country must always show dedication and patriotism. Their commitment to socioeconomic growth and development must be unwavering and unwavering if we desire to progress as a people and a country.

    “The Nigerian Navy has set worthy examples in our quest for sustainable growth and development. This is highly commendable because the ongoing efforts to curb crude oil theft would ultimately lead to an increase in crude oil production for the country, which would lead to improved revenue at the same time. This is also on the heels of the country’s significant earnings from crude oil. 

    “Undoubtedly, the officers and ratings of the Nigerian Navy indeed keyed into the new operational mandate introduced by the Chief of Naval Staff. Hence, the success recorded so far in the war against crude oil theft. This also indicates the pragmatic approach deployed to ensure total adherence to the new thinking and the new operational mandate introduced. “

    The centre urged all relevant stakeholders to extend their support to the Nigerian Navy in the country’s war against crude oil theft.

  • Burna Boy partners foundation for empowerment in Port Harcourt community

    Burna Boy partners foundation for empowerment in Port Harcourt community

    The REACH Foundation Nigeria, in partnership with Afro-fusion sensation Burna Boy, celebrated a remarkable achievement with the successful unveiling of the renovated Cheshire Home in Borikiri, Port Harcourt.

    The event, held on March 1, served as a testament to the transformative power of collective action in revitalising essential community institutions.

    Cheshire Home has long stood as a bastion of support for the physically challenged individuals in Port Harcourt and its environs. Over time, neglect and inadequate maintenance have dimmed its functionality and support capacity.

    Recognising the urgent need for intervention, The REACH Foundation Nigeria, alongside Burna Boy, launched an ambitious renovation project in July 2023 to breathe new life into the facility.

    The unveiling ceremony was a joyous occasion, attended by esteemed guests, community leaders, volunteers, and beneficiaries.

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    The highlight of the event was the official unveiling, gracefully performed by Mr. Sam Ogulu, father of Burna Boy, symbolising the Ogulu family’s unwavering commitment to community empowerment and upliftment.

    “We are thrilled to witness the culmination of months of hard work and dedication,” remarked Halliday Floretta, Chairperson of The REACH Foundation Nigeria’s Board of Directors. “The refurbished Cheshire Home stands as a beacon of hope and dignity for the physically challenged individuals in our community.”

    Burna Boy, known for his fervent advocacy for social impact and community development, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful endeavour.

    He remarked: “It is a privilege to be part of efforts to restore hope and dignity to the physically challenged individuals in our community. Together with The REACH Foundation Nigeria, we are effecting tangible change in the lives of those in need.”

    The event featured musical performances, speeches, and a tour of the newly renovated facilities, providing attendees with a firsthand look at the impact of collaborative efforts in effecting positive change.

    Looking ahead, The REACH Foundation Nigeria and Burna Boy remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting and empowering communities across Nigeria through various initiatives.

    The successful unveiling of the Cheshire Home serves as a testament to the transformative power of collective action and philanthropy.