The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Okumagba congratulates Keyamo for ministerial nomination

    Okumagba congratulates Keyamo for ministerial nomination

    Former Delta Commissioner for Finance Olorogun Bernard Okumagba has congratulated Barrister Festus Keyamo (SAN) on his nomination as Minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR).

    The prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in Delta State, in a statement, said the nomination of Keyamo as Minister in the cabinet of President Tinubu is well deserved, given his pedigree as a technocrat and one of the committed Leaders in the APC.

    He described Olorogun Keyamo as a forthright person, a brother and friend, who will bring energy and drive to bear in the expeditious implementation of President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

    According to him: “Olorogun Keyamo’s nomination is indeed well-deserved given his background as an accomplished lawyer and senior advocate, his record of public service in law and human rights advocacy.”

    He added: “I am hopeful that Keyamo will bring all these and more to bear on his office after his confirmation and swearing-in.

    His work as spokesperson of our party’s 2023 Presidential Campaign Council shows his commitment to our party and our President and his faith in the “Renewed Hope” Agenda of President Tinubu.”

    Olorogun Okumagba also congratulated the other ministerial nominees, urging them to put the nation and the interest of the people above all else upon assuming their offices after confirmation by the Senate.

  • The “uncommon President” of the Senate: Akpabio in the eyes of Yari

    The “uncommon President” of the Senate: Akpabio in the eyes of Yari

    • By, John Mayaki 
    In the hallowed halls of the Nigerian Senate, a leader has emerged who commands admiration and respect from his peers. President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, is being hailed by Senator Abdulaziz Yari as a listening and selfless leader, possessing all the qualities required to lead the 10th Senate and deliver on its promises to Nigerians.
    During the unveiling of a book written by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Yari, a former Governor of Zamfara State and a former aspirant for the office of the President of the 10th Senate, expressed his pride in the current leadership of the National Assembly, led by Senator Godswill Akpabio.
    “He is a listening leader,” Senator Yari declared, highlighting one of Akpabio’s outstanding qualities—an “uncommon” President of The Nigerian Senate. A leader who listens to the voices of his colleagues demonstrates a deep regard for their input, opinions, and concerns, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and collaboration. This attribute is crucial in a diverse legislative body like the Nigerian Senate, where different perspectives must be considered to find the best solutions for the nation.
    Senator Yari further commended Akpabio for his recent display of quality leadership during a Senate sitting. Despite ruling against his own position on an issue, Akpabio exhibited the kind of leadership that places the greater good of the nation above personal interests. Such selflessness and willingness to make decisions based on merit are rare and commendable traits in a leader.
    The mention of President Bola Tinubu, a prominent political figure in Nigeria, in the context of Akpabio’s relationship, hints at the strength of their alliance. A leader’s ability to cultivate meaningful relationships and partnerships is essential in advancing the nation’s interests. Akpabio’s bond with Tinubu is seen as a catalyst that will propel Nigeria to the next level of progress and development.
    Senator Yari’s assertion of the Senate’s unity behind Akpabio reinforces the notion that he commands the respect and support of his fellow senators. A united Senate, working together towards a common goal, is crucial in achieving legislative objectives that benefit the Nigerian people.
    With Akpabio at the helm, Senator Yari firmly believes that Nigeria is bound for the promise land—a future of hope, growth, and prosperity. The Senate’s leadership under Akpabio is perceived as a vehicle that will steer the nation towards the fulfillment of its promises to the citizens.
    In the eyes of Senator Yari, Akpabio embodies the qualities of a true leader: a listener, a selfless decision-maker, and a unifying force. As the President of the Senate, Akpabio’s leadership journey has just begun, and Nigerians eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will make in shaping the legislative landscape and contributing to the nation’s progress.
    With the backing of his colleagues, the strength of his relationship with influential figures like President Bola Tinubu, and his commitment to putting Nigeria first, Akpabio is set to lead the Senate with determination and purpose. As the 10th Senate embarks on its legislative journey, the nation’s hope rests on the shoulders of a leader esteemed by his peers—an uncommon president, Godswill Akpabio.
    However, before Senator Yari’s testimony on the “uncommon” President of the Senate, it is essential to acknowledge Godswill Akpabio’s remarkable journey in Nigerian politics. His distinguished record as the former governor of Akwa Ibom State and vast public service experience have positioned him as a leader determined to be an “uncommon transformer.” During his tenure as governor, Akpabio left an indelible mark on Akwa Ibom State, earning him the moniker “the uncommon performer.”
    His transformative initiatives spanned various sectors, with a keen focus on human capital development and infrastructure. From education to healthcare, Akpabio’s administration prioritized the welfare and empowerment of the people. The signing of the Child Rights Acts into law protected children from abuse and ensured access to quality education, while free and compulsory education up to secondary school level empowered the younger generation for a brighter future.

    Read Also:  Cleric prays for Akpabio’s CoS

    Furthermore, Akpabio’s commitment to social issues and human empowerment saw the establishment of the Ibom Specialist Hospital, providing much-needed medical services to the people. His efforts to combat poverty and youth unemployment through free medical treatment initiatives showcased his dedication to uplifting the lives of his constituents.
    Now, as the President of the Nigerian Senate, Akpabio has vowed to bring his transformative touch to the nation’s highest legislative body. His intention to introduce reforms and tackle the challenges facing Nigeria through legislative means reflects his commitment to assisting President Tinubu’s administration in succeeding.
    With the support of colleagues from different parties and the backing of influential figures like President Bola Tinubu, Akpabio’s leadership is poised to guide Nigeria towards a brighter future. As the 10th Senate commences its legislative journey, the nation looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of an “uncommon president”—Godswill Akpabio.
    Mayaki is a developmental and multi-skilled journalist, Historian and Diplomat. He’s a Communication, Culture and Media expert (Coventry University, England). An Oxford and Cambridge University-trained entrepreneurship, leadership and sustainability expert. He’s also a Professional Consultant on Communication, Management and Strategy (Chattered Management Institute, England).
    He writes from Abuja and can be reached on info@johnmayaki.com
  • NDDC: Authentic Ex-Niger Delta agitators restate support for Ogbuku-led mgt

    NDDC: Authentic Ex-Niger Delta agitators restate support for Ogbuku-led mgt

    The authentic former Niger Delta agitators on the aegis of Ex-Agitators Forum, have described as mischievous, a publication in the media by some persons it described as impostors, who are threatening to disrupt activities of the Management Committee of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    The group said as genuine leaders of all ex-agitators, it finds it absurd that a group of impostors will be issuing threats to cause disaffection among the people of the Niger Delta region.

    In a statement, signed by HRH Henry Binidodogha (President First Phase), Olotu Wanemi (National Chairman Second Phase) and Tonye Bobo (National Chairman Third Phase), the ex-agitators, equally condemned calls for the removal of the present Management Committee of the NDDC.

    The group expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Dr. Samuel Ogbuku-led management of the NDDC, and therefore, distanced itself from anyone or group holding contrary views. It cautioned such persons and their sponsors to desist from their mischievous antics as they are unwittingly pulling the Niger Delta region backwards.

    Read Also: NNPCL pays N81b interim dividend

    The statement read in part: “As major stakeholders in the region, we are worried by the frequent changes of leadership in the foremost interventionist agency in Nigeria’s oil-rich region. This disruptive change of guards impedes the development of the region.

    “We are aware that some powerful individuals who previously benefited from the years of sleaze are behind the new threats. Their unfortunate mission, which is against the mandate of the NDDC, is meant to truncate the changes that are taking place at the Commission.

    “We urge Niger Delta stakeholders to disregard those seeking to disrupt the system because it is obvious that they are sponsored to sow the seeds of discord in the hope of benefitting from the chaos that will follow. The stakeholders should note that the self-serving agents of disharmony are merely heating up the system knowing that President Bola Tinubu is in the process of reconstituting the NDDC Board.”

    Reminding Niger Deltans that the threat to shut down the operations of the NDDC is no longer fashionable, the group said as genuine stakeholders in the Niger Delta region, they have since embraced peaceful engagement since the emergence of the Ogbuku-led management team.

    “It is noteworthy that within a very short period of the time, Dr Ogbuku and his team have laid the foundation for the rapid economic development of the region and put in place an enduring and sustainable governance structure for the effective operations of the Commission.

    “We note that as a former youth leader himself, Dr Samuel Ogbuku has been through the mill and is well prepared for the leadership position he is occupying today. The leadership of the authentic ex-agitators is happy that Mr. President retained Dr. Ogbuku to continue to pilot affairs of the commission until a new board is constituted.

    “Majority of genuine ex-agitators, who were in the thick of the struggle to emancipate the Niger Delta region, know their own. It is, therefore, unthinkable for fellow ex-agitators to call for the sack of the management currently headed by Dr Samuel Ogbuku, who is dearly loved by his people.

    “We appeal to Niger Delta stakeholders to refrain from destabilizing the development vehicle that is being strengthened to provide for the welfare of our people,” the group said.

  • Ex-Edo Speaker Okosun mourns Esogban of Benin Edebiri

    Ex-Edo Speaker Okosun mourns Esogban of Benin Edebiri

    Former Edo Speaker Thomas Okosun has described the death of Esogban of Benin, Chief David Edebiri as a profound loss to the nation.

    Okosun, member, Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, said the late Edebiri’s dedication to preserving Edo’s rich cultural heritage left an indelible mark on the community.

    In a statement, he said: ‘’On behalf of myself, family and the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, I extend our sincerest condolences on the passing of the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief David Edebiri.

    ‘’His demise is a profound loss not only to the Benin Kingdom but also to the entire nation.

    ‘’Chief David Edebiri was an exceptional leader, a prolific writer, and renowned journalist. His dedication to preserving our rich cultural heritage and caring for the welfare of his people has left an indelible mark on our community.

    Read Also: Oshiomhole mourns Esogban of Benin Kingdom

    ‘’His wisdom, fearlessness, and relentless commitment to service were an inspiration to many.

    ‘’During this time of mourning, we acknowledge the significant contributions Chief David Edebiri made throughout his lifetime. He was a revered traditional ruler and a symbol of unity, compassion, and progress for all. His guidance and counsel were sought after and valued by leaders and citizens alike.

    ‘’We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Royal Family, the people of Benin Kingdom, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with Chief David Edebiri. May the memories of his noble deeds and his legacy of benevolence bring solace and strength during this difficult time.

    ‘’As a community, let us come together to honor his memory and continue his mission of fostering unity and progress.

    ‘’Chief David Edebiri’s impact on our society will be forever remembered.

    ‘’Our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family and the entire Benin Kingdom as they navigate this profound loss.

    ‘’May Chief David Edebiri’s soul rest in eternal peace, Okosun added.

  • ‘Weak electricity poles endangering our lives’

    ‘Weak electricity poles endangering our lives’

    Residents of Afaha Ube Community in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have raised the alarm about dilapidated electricity poles which puts them at risk.

    They said the Port Harcourt Electricity Company (PHEDC) has refused to replace its old equipment in the area.

    Residents escaped electrocution after some poles and low tension cables fell on some buildings during the Tuesday rain. A transformer stationed beside the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) was destroyed.

    Bassey Out, who spoke for the residents, berated PHEDC for neglecting its facilities and equipment. Otu also listed acts by PHEDC against them to include outrageous bills, refusal to repair transformers and cables, and outright refusal to replace weak poles.

    He added: “Recently, PHEDC demanded N250,000 from us as electricity bill. They connived with a community to bring outrageous bills. PHEDC cannot replace weak cables. In extreme cases, we repair the transformers and replace old poles while they come to collect bills only.”

    Another resident, Ubokudom Akpan, said the rain started about 4am and cut off the branch of a tree which fell on low tension cables, causing some electric poles to fall on buildings.

    The cables blocked the access road preventing motorists and pedestrians from plying the road.

    “If the incident had happened during the day, t would have killed many people. The poles have no concrete strength as they have all expired. Even the poles connecting cables to the transformer have all decayed.

    “Even the wall that protects the transformer is completely decayed. How do you expect them to survive the windstorm? The rain was not even wild enough to pull down electric poles, but because the poles are not strong, they fell.”

    A senior official of PHEDC, who pleaded for anonymity, described the incident as ‘an act of God’.

    However, officials of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) blamed the PHEDC for not cutting off or trimming trees around electric poles.

    “I have called PHEDC officials many times to cut the trees to save their cable lines but they didn’t show up till it caused this damage. It is the responsibility of PHEDC to change weak facilities like poles, clear the power lines and replace other weak installations that may cause danger to their lines, but they ignore it.”

  • Akwa Ibom APC reinstates suspended chairman, deputy

    Akwa Ibom APC reinstates suspended chairman, deputy

    The Akwa Ibom State All Progressives Congress (APC) has reinstated its chairman, Stephen Ntukekpo and Deputy Chairman David Umoessien.

    Acting Chairman Cyril Enemi, at a news conference, said the issues which led to their suspension have been resolved.

    According to Enemi, the suspension bothers on alleged mismanagement of member’s welfare. He recalled that the crisis which polarized the party started on July 2, ‘but the issues which could have led to a serious tsunami have been nipped in the bud.’

    The communique signed by 32 officials and endorsed by the State Executive Council (SEC), expressed confidence in the Ntukekpo-led leadership, and promised a united front towards ensuring APC captures the state in the next general elections.

    It reads: “The SEC has confidence in Stephen Ntukekpo as party chairman, and pledge our full support for his pragmatic leadership style by sustaining peace and unity within all components of the party.

    “All issues leading to recent disagreements within the SEC were amicably resolved, and warring factions pledged to withdraw earlier release circulating the social media.

    “SEC also congratulates Senator Godswill Akpabo for his victory as Senate President, and ffirm him as the party leader in the state, and pledge to work with relevant stakeholders to move the party forward.”

  • REA deploys mini-grid solar power stations to mitigate fuel price hike

    REA deploys mini-grid solar power stations to mitigate fuel price hike

    The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has intensified deployment of mini-grid solar power stations across the country to mitigate the hike in costs of petroleum products following removal of fuel subsidy.

    The deployment focuses on places with potential for agricultural activities where food processors can power their milling machines via the solar power grid instead of using the now costly petrol.

    Managing Director of REA, Engr Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, who disclosed this in Gurin, Adamawa State, during inspection of a 100KW solar mini-grid power plant initiated by the agency, said the Gurin power plant is one of several such solar intervention projects developed by his agency under its Mass Electrification for Poverty Reduction Programme to support productive enterprises in face of risen energy costs.

    “The key is to ensure that this project goes to communities that have existing economic activities so that they are able to afford and use the power. This is a 100 kilowatt facility powering businesses, especially rice processing, in this town today,” the REA MD said.

    He added: “We located the solar power station in Gurin because it is a hub for rice milling. Our projects are taken to communities known for economic activities, to power such activities.”

    He explained that the Gurin 100-kilowatt solar energy station has its own installation network supplying electricity to individual processors.

    Gurin, in the Fufore local government area, is a Nigeria-Cameroon border community with high grains production and processing.

    Speaking to newsmen who covered the inspection of the Gurin Solar Power project, Chairman of the community’s Rice Millers Association, Alhaji Mohammed Sani, said the project had been saving members of the association from the frustration of high energy costs.

  • Oil & gas community development committee commend Tinubu, pass vote of confidence on NDDC MD

    Oil & gas community development committee commend Tinubu, pass vote of confidence on NDDC MD

    The Board of Trustees and Management of Community Development Committees (CDC) of Niger Delta Oil and Gas Producing Areas has commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for retaining Dr Samuel Ogbuku as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    It also passed a vote of confidence on Ogbuku for the quality leadership he is giving at the Commission

    The expression of endorsement is contained in a communique jointly signed by Chief Joseph Ambakederimo, Chairman Board of Trustees and Augustine Iyamu, Chairman, Communique Drafting Committee of CDC.

    The committee stated the vote of confidence on Ogbuku was in appreciation of his unwavering commitment on the journey of evolution and a pathway to unleashing enormous capacity potential in the years to come.

    The meeting which held on Saturday in Warri-Delta State under the auspices of the Chairman Board of Trustees, Joseph Ambakederimo, was designed to x-ray development issues pertaining to the Niger Delta region vis-a-vis the NDDC critical role and its attendant rescue mission of the region under the leadership of Ogbuku.

    The group, while commending Ogbuku for his innovative leadership and dedication to duty, urged Tinubu to re-appoint him as a substantive Managing Director of the interventionist commission when the board is reconstituted.

    Other decisions taken at the meeting, according to the communique read in part: “We the members of the Community Development Committees of Niger Delta Oil and Gas Producing Areas believe deeply in the twelve fundamental principles of the CDC.

    “We are committed to bringing about a new beginning for the people of the Niger Delta by establishing and defending a democratic system of government built on the foundations of social justice in our beloved country.

    “The promotion of a peaceful atmosphere for the smooth operation of companies, agencies and other investors in the Niger Delta Area.

    “The promotion of good relations between the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs of the Niger Delta Area, Government and other agencies responsible for the welfare of Traditional Rulers for the purpose of the provision of adequate care and the uplifting of the Traditional Rulers.”

    The CDC identified that the NDDC is the catalyst for the development of the Area, the NDDC should henceforth take the lead to show the pathway for the sustainable development of the area.

    The committees further stated “The CDC urge the Managing Director of the NDDC to put processes in place for the establishment Special Economic Zones in the region to cater for Small and Medium size entrepreneurs. This is a special model that can provide a plug and play model to create wealth and for the youthful population to acquire relevant skills.

    “The CDC observed the deplorable state of the East West road that is crying for attention having been destroyed by the flood of last year.

    “The rains is reaching its peak again and we fear a further devastation that will culminate in pains and impact on businesses and loss of valuable man hours. CDC therefore call on the Federal government to quickly mobilise men and material resources to site.

    “CDC further notes that the Federal Ministry of Works which responsibility the east west road has become should endeavour to complete the road fully dualised from Warri to Calabar. Of equally important is the Warri Benin road that has been abandoned and causing nightmare to travellers and businesses.

    “The CDC resolved to undertake a consultative working visit to the NDDC in a due date for on the spot assessment and a firsthand vision of the programs of the Managing Director.

    “The CDC also resolved to hold a grand consultative stakeholders conference with the Traditional institution of the Niger Delta region having recognised the Traditional institution as the bastion of peace and development. Our aspiration for genuine development of the region can only happen if there is sustained peace in the region.

    “The CDC urge the Managing Director to see the CDC as partners in progress, and request it be invited to be on the entourage of teams undertaking project inspection as our members cut across all of the oil and gas producing communities,” the communique stated.

  • Group salutes Tinubu on subsidy, Nigeria’s unity

    Group salutes Tinubu on subsidy, Nigeria’s unity

    The Global Amnesty Watch (GAW) has commended President Bola Tinubu for taking the bold step to remove fuel subsidy.

    The group said the President demonstrated strong political will and the desire to address the country’s challenges in an audacious manner that frees it from the clutches of fuel importers and marketers.

    The GAW made this known in its country situation report signed by its director, Isaac Ikpa and made public on Thursday.

    “One of the critical decisions taken by the Bola Tinubu administration was the announcement of the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit,” the report said.

    “The Global Amnesty Watch commends the decision, which resonates with the necessity of time given that the subsidy regime was not sustainable and fraught with irregularities that take a large chunk of the country’s resources, running into trillions of naira.

    “The removal of subsidy on petrol is a step in the right direction. It was a demonstration of strong political will and the desire to address the country’s challenges in an audacious manner that frees the country from the clutches of fuel importers and marketers.

    “It is a statement of the fact that the decision by President Bola Tinubu is a step that would put the country in good stead economically. This is on the heel that savings from the removal of subsidy would be channelled to other sectors begging for attention.

    “President Bola Tinubu, with the action on subsidy removal, indeed sent a positive signal to the international community on what to expect in the years ahead with regard to policy formulation and implementation.”

    According to Ikpa, the decisions taken so far indicate the preparedness to address the socio-economic challenges in Nigeria and have restored hope in the country towards achieving sustainable growth and development.

    Read Also: My associates thought I was joking when I said subsidy was gone – Tinubu

    He said the international community has already shown a willingness to partner with the country in ways identifiable, adding that the President’s recent trip to France shows that Nigeria is back on an upswing on the global scene.

    On the economy, the report added that: “The steps taken so far with the suspension of the governor of the Central Bank and the reversal of some monetary policies boosted investors’ confidence and the consequent improvements in the economic rating of the country.

    “The Global Amnesty Watch recognizes the necessity of the economic decisions taken so far and their impact on the economy. President Bola Tinubu is conversant with the economic implication of nonaction in addressing the economic challenges in the country. “

    The report further hailed President Bola Tinubu for rejigging the security architecture by appointing new service chiefs and the National Security Adviser.

    Ikpa noted that “the quality of the appointments was top-notch as it reflected balance and competence” adding that the President has taken the necessary steps to address the security challenges in the country.

    He, however, tasked the current administration to ensure the formulation and implementation of policies and programs that would give succour to the generality of Nigerians regardless of ethnic or religious affiliations.

  • Group cautions on blackmail against Omo-Agege, Delta APC leaders

    Group cautions on blackmail against Omo-Agege, Delta APC leaders

    A support group, the Coalition for Delta Interest (CDI), has warned against what it called daily campaigns of calumny against immediate past Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State.

    Its convener and secretary Austin Kpedi and Eric Ikomi in a statement on Tuesday respectively said: ” Our attention has been drawn to different media publications and National Television programs where some groups of cheapjack speculators headed by an expelled chieftain of the APC are finding all possible means to get political patronage from President Bola Tinubu whose electoral victory they made no effort to contribute.

    These disparate elements who are rampaging the media with “Omo-Agege campaigned against Tinubu” were nowhere to be found in all APC campaigns, and meetings and thus failed to deliver their units for any APC candidates in the last elections. If these set of people were from Lagos State, they would also have accused Mr. President, His Excellency, Senator Bola Tinubu of working against himself because an opposition party defeated Mr. President in his Lagos State, a record which has not been broken for about twenty years.

    Read Also: Pipelines surveillance diversion: Ex-agitators seek Omo-Agege’s arrest

    ‘’While it is not necessary to duel on the rigorous grassroots campaign efforts of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Ovie Omo-Agege alongside Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, Rt Hon. Victor Ochei, Chief Ayiri Emami, and other leaders of the Delta State APC vis-a-vis the outcome of the elections, we need to state vividly that the 2023 general election in Delta State yielded unprecedented results that made Delta APC secure two out of the three Senatorial elections, one Federal Constituency election and seven State House of Assembly elections. The Governorship and other elections which were rigged by the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and their conspirators, shall be reversed through the party’s petitions backed up with insurmountable evidence.

    ‘’As a group, we embarked on various pre-campaign activities including solidarity walks for His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Senator Ovie Omo-Agege on different popular roads in Asaba, the Delta State Capital. We also participated in the One Million Man March for Tinubu and Omo-Agege as Coordinated by Chief Ominimini. It is pertinent to note that, the funding of these activities came from distinguished Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and other leaders of the party whose detractors are blackmailing their efforts.

    ‘’Those buying the blackmail from this set of helter-skelter politicians parading themselves as Delta APC members should demand their unit results in all the elections of 2023 to prove their commitments to the progress of the Party. Ms. Onochie, the recently sacked board Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission was alleged to have shared dollars to aid opposition parties’ victory in Delta State. She joined this maligning undertaking because it has been her stock in trade in earning appointment from the presidency”.

    The coalition urged the President and the National Leadership of the party to “be wary of this set of people whose mission is to reap from where they did not sow”.