The Nation Newspaper

Category: SouthEast

Mbah relocates popular Coal Camp Spare Parts Market to 9th Mile

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, has signed an Executive Order relocating the current spare parts and allied trades markets as well as all other related industrial and commercial activities in the Coal Camp and other neighbourhoods within the Enugu Capital Territory to the site of the new International Spare Parts and Allied Trades Park.

The new site traverses Udi and Ezeagu Local Government Areas along the Enugu-Onitsha Road of the state.

The Executive Order is entitled the Designation and Establishment of the Enugu International Motor Spare Parts and Allied Traders Park, Nsude, Udi LGA and Ogwofia Owa in Ezeagu LGA and the Relocation of the Coal Camp Neighbourhood and other Neighbourhoods in the Enugu Capital Territory to the New Enugu International Motor Spare Parts and Allied Trades Park Site.

Speaking at a brief signing ceremony witnessed by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, and leaders of Enugu spare parts dealers at the Government House on Friday, Mbah assured that the errors and challenges presented by the Coal Camp Spare Parts Market were being effectively addressed in the new one.

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“This new market is actually a purpose-built vehicle because it is designed for the market in the true sense of the word and with all the supporting facilities. We have taken into account all the safety codes that are required to have an international market.

“As you may already be aware, the construction is ongoing. We are aggressively opening up the roads and also the building itself. That construction has commenced.

“Our hope is that in the next few months, we are going to see the movement of you all from the current location to an international market where we have provided all the services. There is going to be a clinic and fire service there. There is going to be a truck park.

“All the errors, all the challenges and the problems we have in the existing market will all be addressed in the new market.

“We have also made sure that you do not live very far from your market. We have residences around the market. It is an ideal neighbourhood concept where you can live comfortably within your neighbourhood and still do your trading and businesses comfortably without traveling far to get things done,” the governor said.

In his remarks, the President of Enugu Motor Spare Parts Dealers Association, Chief Michael Nomeh, hailed the governor for keeping to his campaign promise after decades of disappointments endured by the traders.

“We are so excited about the relocation of the Enugu motor spare parts dealers to the permanent site, which is of international standard.

“We thank the governor for the campaign promise that he has fulfilled. Since the inception of democracy in 1999 to date, there have been so many promises to our people that they will relocate us to the international market. But none of them has kept to their promises. That is why we appreciate the governor for keeping the campaign promises less than two years in office. He is a governor who does exactly what he says he would do,” Nomeh stated.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of the Enugu State Investment Development Authority, Dr Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, described both the move and the location of the new site as strategic, noting that the traders would be able to own shops, unlike the present Coal Campsite where most of them rented shops.

He explained that the Enugu State Government is committed to the establishment of a commercial hub that will be a self-contained community with the full compliments of the various ancillary and supporting land uses that will create a comprehensive multi-functional commercial and industrial ecosystem in the emerging 9th Miles business corridor of the State.

“This move is a strategic one aimed at boosting our state economy in our drive to a $30bn GDP economy.

“If you know the location of the new place, it is so strategic. You cannot go from the Middle Belt or South South or Cross River or even from Cameroon to Onitsha without passing through there.

“The government is not building to make profit, but for the traders to move to a well-organised and safe environment for trading and living.

“The place is designed to have the commercial sections with shops of different categories, warehouses, workshops, ample parking spaces, water, power, and other utilities facilities.

“There are also residential areas. There are also going to be smart schools, the primary healthcare centers, the fire service station, Police station, the recreational park, and a football pitch. It is a modern place that everybody will be proud to live in. It is built for modern spare parts and allied trade professionals,” he added.

March 16, 2025
Arthur Eze hosts SEDC board members, articulates vision, goals for regional transformation

Business mogul, Prince Arthur Eze, OFR, has hosted a grand reception to honour the pioneer members of the Board and Management of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

The event was marked by traditional Igbo rites, deep reflections on the region’s past and a commitment to an ambitious vision for the future.

The event commenced with the presentation of the Igbo traditional kola nut by Eze, followed by prayers from a traditional ruler and a Clergy.

The prayers emphasised that the South East Development Commission will be an instrument of peace, unity and economic transformation for the region.

Eze recounted the resilience of the Igbo people following the Nigerian Civil War.

He emphasised that for decades, the Igbos struggled without national recognition until the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“At the end of the war, Igbos were given only twenty pounds, yet we survived. President Tinubu has ensured that the Igbo people will no longer cry,” he stated.

He called on Igbos to appreciate Tinubu for his remarkable support and vision for the South East. Prince Eze shared personal stories of hardship and loss during the war, affirming that the establishment of SEDC signifies a new dawn for the region.

“President Tinubu has rekindled the Igbo spirit, the spirit of Dr. Michael Okpara. This marks the beginning of a new era. No matter your political party, we must support him to complete his eight-year tenure.”

Dr. Emeka Wogu, Chairman of the SEDC Board, expressed profound gratitude to Eze for organising the event, which he described as a strong show of support for the commission.

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He assured that the SEDC will leverage this momentum to drive meaningful development across the South East region.

The MD/CEO of South East Development Commission, (SEDC) Mark Okoye II, emphasised SEDC’s commitment to rapid and impactful development.

He highlighted that just two days after the board’s inauguration, the Executive Management Team submitted the SEDC Roadmap for approval, demonstrating their urgency and dedication to progress.

He stated that the SEDC is poised to turn the South East into a $200 billion economy within ten years by implementing bold and strategic initiatives.

“We are not here to compete; we are here to support and align with the programs of the state governors,” Okoye assured.

The SEDC Board and Executive Management have embarked on extensive consultations with South East governors to align their development plans with the states’ priorities.

Key insights from these engagements include:

Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru stressed the need for community development and prudent utilization of SEDC funds.

On his part, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah urged the commission to build the South East into a commercial hub centered on trade and industry.

Anambra Governor Charles Soludo called for a strong focus on capital projects that will boost infrastructure and economic productivity.

Also, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State advocated for regional power generation and distribution, as well as targeted sectoral interventions.

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, highlighted the need7 for commercially and socially viable interventions, referring to SEDC as a vital interventionist platform.

Prominent South East stakeholders at the meeting shared insightful observations and advice for SEDC.

On leadership, Nigeria’s major problem has been poor leadership selection based on personal relationships rather than competence. However, SEDC’s leadership has been carefully chosen for their expertise and experience.

On governance, SEDC was advised to adhere strictly to rules and procedures to maintain transparency and credibility.

On regional development, a stakeholder reminded the commission that its focus must be on the ordinary people, traders, artisans, students, small business owners, farmers, and industrialists, who dream of a prosperous future.

On Politics and Collaboration: Another stakeholder warned against unnecessary political interference, urging SEDC to focus on collaboration and regional development.

On Economic Vision, The South East should be a regional common market, leveraging its industrial and entrepreneurial strengths.

On Delivery and Impact, The commission was charged to invest, innovate, implement and inspire in order to truly impact the lives of ordinary people.

A stakeholder described SEDC as a “special-purpose vehicle for rapid development.” With the equitable opportunity now available to the Igbo people, they must seize the moment to contribute meaningfully to national development.

Furthermore, it was noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has given the South East a platform through SEDC to “end the era of traveling abroad in search of opportunities and instead build prosperity at home.”

Senators present at the event collectively thanked Tinubu for assenting to the bill establishing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and ensuring speedy appointment and inaguration of the members of the SEDC Board.

They also expressed gratitude to Prince Arthur Eze for his generosity in hosting the grand reception.

The event underscored a shared commitment to leveraging the South East Development Commission as a catalyst for economic transformation. With a clear roadmap, strong leadership and the backing of key stakeholders, SEDC is well positioned to unlock the vast potential of the region and usher in an era of prosperity.

March 14, 2025
The many strides of Presidential Amnesty Programme

By Monsuru Arilesere

Once upon a time in Nigeria, the Niger Delta region as we know it today did not exist. The land mass and its people were there alright, but the state of affairs, the life they live and the well-being of the entire region was nothing short of perilous.

The region was at war – a war mainly against itself, but a perilous war, all the same.

Security, peace and other human development indices took flight, and chaos reigned.

Youth restiveness and armed struggle with all its dark and dire outcomes reigned unchecked.

Then, the late President Umaru Yar’Adua-led federal government introduced the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) in 2009 to salvage the region. That decision became a watershed moment, not just for the area but for the entire country, which was constantly feeling the heat from the fire raging in that region.

Its primary goal was to de-escalate and defuse the youths’ restiveness and was designed to provide a framework for disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration of ex-militants.

The warring militants were offered a time-boxed opportunity to surrender their arms in exchange for amnesty and rehabilitation.

They were to be re-integrated into their communities by providing formal education, vocational training and employment opportunities.

From 2009 till now, PAP has made significant and even giant strides under its mandate.

It’s on record that more than 20,000 repentant militants surrendered their arms and ammunition to the federal government and that many have also benefited from the programme’s vocational training and education initiatives.

It’s a no-brainer to say that peace, stability, and growth have also long returned to the region.

And since March 2024, when Dr. Dennis Otuaro took over the reins of leadership at PAP, the programme has experienced boundless progress in the different aspects of its mandate.

It has taken him just one year to take the vocational training and economic empowerment to a new height, particularly in aviation’s deployment of aircraft maintenance engineers for on-the-job training (OJT), 40 AMEs were type rated on ERJ – 145 and CRJ – 900/B737 aircrafts by Alom Aviation Services Limited.

The engineers were deployed for their one-year mandatory OJT in March of 2024.

It’s also public knowledge that 16 AMEs are undergoing their OJT at the 7 Star Global Hangar, while 21 others are at Aero Contractors Limited.

One of them is presently at King Airlines and Travels Limited.

Four Cadet Pilots were deployed to SimAero Training Limited Johannesburg, South Africa, for type rating on ERJ–145 and ATR72–500 on the 31st of May, 2024. They graduated and returned to Nigeria on the 30th of June, 2024.

PAP had a caseload of two cadet pilots who completed their instrument rating course on AW139 at Henley Air Flight Training in Johannesburg, South Africa, on April 10, 2024. Due to their outstanding performance at the instrument rating course, they were further deployed for their Type Rating Course on 29th May 2024 at Caverton Helicopters Limited in Lagos State.

Moving over to the maritime sub-sector, many can still recall the story of the 98 Maritime Cadets whose training programmes were truncated in Poland, Vietnam and Sweden between 2011 and 2014 due to frequent change of leadership at PAP. Well, one of the distinct actions Dr. Otuaro took on assuming office was to ensure that they were sent to Joemarine Institute of Nautical Studies and Research, in Delta State, to complete their programmes.

Just last October, the Dr. Dennis Otuaro-led PAP enrolled the cadets in a boot camp that would enable them to refresh their memories on the maritime training and for the naval consultant to figure out which cadets are ready to go further for the mainstream maritime training.

As the astute and pragmatic leader and administrator that he is, Dr. Otuaro, since coming to PAP, has taken stakeholder management and engagement to an admirable level. This is because he understands the role of the critical stakeholders in achieving and sustaining the goals of the amnesty programme. He has organised various stakeholder engagement sessions with the different categories of leaders and community representatives in the region.

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The 2024 PAP Stakeholders Engagement Summit specifically convened by Dr. Otuaro also reinforced the importance of dialogue, collaboration, and inclusivity in sustaining peace in the Niger Delta.

The event provided a platform to address key concerns, proposed solutions, and strengthened relationships between the PAP and its stakeholders.

In line with his resolve to sustain effective stakeholder engagement at PAP, Dr. Otuaro has continued to forge mutually beneficial relationships with different government agencies and officials.

For instance, due to his determination to secure a better future for the graduates of the various development initiatives of PAP and to strengthen the synergy with the nation’s civil service, Dr. Dennis Otuaro held a crucial meeting with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Dame Didi Walson-Jack.

Just last November, the Dr. Otuaro-led PAP reiterated his commitment to keeping the peace in the Niger-Delta region by ensuring that all the PAP objectives are always met. This was done during a meeting with the Defence Headquarters Joint Monitoring Team led by Major General Jamil Jimoh.

The region and the country have continued to reap the dividends of the prevalent peace and security in the area as the country’s daily oil production output has significantly increased over the years to the present 1.8 barrels.

Indeed, Dr. Otuaro has proven in the short time he has been at the PAP’s helm of affairs that he has everything it takes to ensure that PAP continually delivers on its mandate.

Arilesere, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Ibadan

March 14, 2025
EFCC didn’t arrest Aisha Ashimugu – Aide

Popular buusinesswoman and socialite, Aisha Achimugu was not taken into custody by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Her personal media aide, David Abakpa, while reacting said the reports on two blogs were sponsored statement “fake news”.

Abakpa attributed the report captioned “EFCC arrests flamboyant aocialite, Aisha Achimugu” to the cheap handiwork of the enemies of his principal.

While urging the public to disregard the fake news, he noted that Mrs. Achimugu is not in the country and so could not have been arrested by the EFCC.

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He said the unfounded rumour was a calculated attempt by unscrupulous elements bent on tarnishing the hard-earned reputation of Achimugu by all means.

The statement reads in part: “It is a lie sponsored by enemies! Aisha Achimugu is never arrested or detained by the EFCC. Anyone can confirm from the Commission.

“Aisha Achimugu, in the first place, is not in the country. She left the country on a business trip last week.

“Mrs. Achimugu is a law abiding Nigerian who is highly respected internationally for her legitimate dealings. She is well known for creating jobs for Nigerian youths, thereby impacting the economy with her businesses.”

March 13, 2025
Majority Leader, three other Edo lawmakers defect to APC

• Ruling party’s chair declares state PDP dead

Majority Leader in Edo State House of Assembly, Donald Okugbe (PDP – Akoko-Edo II), and three other lawmakers yesterday defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The other lawmakers are Bright Iyamu (PDP – Orhionmwon South II); Richard Edosa (PDP – Oredo West); and Sunday Ojezele (LP – Esan South East).

By the defection, APC now has 13 members in the House, while PDP members are 11.

Edo Chairman of APC, Jarret Tenebe, described PDP as dead in the state.

During the 2023 general election, of the 24 seats in the House of Assembly, PDP won 15 seats; APC had eight seats, while LP won one seat. PDP’s Destiny Enabulele representing Ovia Southwest Constituency was sacked by the election petitions tribunal, and replaced with APC’s Sunday Aghedo.

With yesterday’s defection, APC now has 13 seats and PDP is left with 11 seats, while LP is without any seat.

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Tenebe, welcoming the defectors in Benin, said: “Today (March 12) marks a significant moment for our party, the ruling APC, a testament to the strength of our vision and the resonance of our ideals. We are here to warmly welcome some members of the Edo State House of Assembly, who, after careful consideration and deep reflection, have chosen to join our ranks.

“The decision to defect from the divided and depleted PDP, and embrace our party, is a powerful endorsement of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to progress, unity, justice, economic prosperity and food security for the people.

“The honourable members, who bring with them a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives, have recognised that APC offers the most-promising path forward for Edo State and our country, Nigeria. They have seen the clarity of the policies, the integrity of the leadership of Governor Okpebholo and the unwavering dedication to make the lives of Edo people better.

“We understand that the decision to change political allegiances is not taken lightly. It requires courage, conviction and a belief in a better future. We commend the honourable members for their bravery and willingness to stand with us, as we join hands with Governor Okpebholo to build a stronger economy, improve education, promote social harmony and secure the lives of Edo people.”

He said the defection was not a matter of increasing the party’s numbers, but about strengthening the collective resolve and bringing together individuals who shared a common purpose and a desire to make a real difference.

The Edo APC chairman said: “We value the contributions of each and every member, and we are confident that our new members will play vital roles in our journey towards success.

“Some may question the motives behind these defections. Some may attempt to sow seeds of doubt and division. For the record, the Nigerian Constitution, as amended, is clear on the issue of defection.

“Section 68 (1) (g) of the Nigerian Constitution explains that an elected party member may defect, as long as it is as a result of a division in the political party of which he was previously a member or of a merger of two or more political parties or factions by one of which he was previously sponsored.”

“The PDP in Edo State is dead. A solemn funeral service will be organised for the PDP in Edo State very soon. Based on the foregoing, the members have not flouted any law, and their actions are in order. With the defections, APC now controls the majority in Edo State House of Assembly. The dead PDP, with no structure or offices in Edo State, is now in the minority.”

Tenebe said the new members had seen the handiwork of Okpebholo in over 100 days in office, and were impressed.

He said: “No one compelled them (the four lawmakers) to join our fold. They made the decision based on the numerous good programmes that Governor Okpebholo has been carrying out across the three senatorial districts of the state.

“As a political party, we are going to restrategise ahead of the 2027 elections. We will mobilise over two million voters and ensure we win all available seats in Edo State. We will also deliver a landslide victory for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In fact, Edo State will produce the highest number of votes for President Tinubu in the entire Southsouth.”

Edo chairman of APC alleged that some opposition politicians were behind the insecurity in the state, asking them to desist.

March 13, 2025
Support from NDDC, NGOs excites controller of corrections

The Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), Mrs. Idowu Enodiakemen, who is in charge of the Custodial Centre on Sapele Road, Benin, popularly called White House, in Edo State, is excited over the items donated to the centre by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in conjunction with some non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Enodiakemen, in the second edition of the initiative, spoke yesterday during the presentation of the items, which consisted of mattresses, mats and cartons of medical drugs, while NDDC and the NGOs earlier renovated the centre’s borehole and donated solar-powered lights.

The NGOs, which partnered NDDC for decongestion and welfare of inmates of correctional centres in Niger Delta, included Peace and Development Projects, Legal Defence and Assistance Projects (LEDAP), VELMA Foundation and Benoni Akpa Development Foundation.

The DCC said: “I am so happy. The items presented by NDDC and the NGOs will go a long way to take care of the welfare of the inmates, thereby supporting the efforts of the Federal Government. The donated items will be used very well.”

The representative of the NGOs, Mr. Ovie Eseoghene, disclosed that in the second phase of the programme, inmates with option of payment of fines would be assisted, for the beneficiaries to also contribute to societal development.

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He said: “NDDC’s intervention reflects its ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life of the people of the Niger Delta, not only through infrastructure development, but also through human-centred initiatives. By partnering with respected organisations, the Federal Government’s interventionist agency (NDDC) is amplifying its efforts to deliver lasting and positive change to the region’s correctional institutions.

“This project is a testament to NDDC’s continued efforts in promoting peace, justice and the well-being of the people in Niger Delta.

“We believe that by addressing the issue of overcrowding at our correctional centres, and improving the conditions of the inmates, NDDC is contributing to the overall development of the region and ensuring that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is reaching the indigent people in the region.”

Eseoghene said the initiative would bring relief to thousands of inmates and enhance the capacity of correctional centres to provide better rehabilitation services.

March 13, 2025
Wole Adamolekun: Celebrating a quintessential PR scholar at 70

By Yushau A. Shuaib

When many of us were still navigating the halls of academia in the late 1980s, trying to grasp the essence of Public Relations and carve out our place in the profession, Wole Adamolekun had already emerged as a beacon of excellence. By 1989, he was honored with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), a testament to his early mastery of the field, having been a member since 1982.

It was in 1992 that the late Sabo Mohammed, then Chairman of the Kano Chapter of NIPR, introduced us, a group of Mass Communication undergraduates, to Adamolekun—a man whose intellectual depth and professional acumen would profoundly shape our understanding of and passion for public relations.

As a staunch advocate for professionalism and ethical excellence, Adamolekun has always believed that communication is not merely about conveying messages but about spreading goodness and fostering positive change. Troubled by what he aptly terms “AIDS”—Acquired Integrity Deficiency Syndrome—a malaise he sees plaguing segments of the profession and the nation at large, he has tirelessly championed moral rearmament and ethical rebirth as essential steps toward restoring justice and accountability.

Born on March 12, 1955, in the serene town of Iju, Akure North, Ondo State, Wole Adamolekun never lost touch with his humble beginnings. His educational journey took him from Ibadan to Lagos and ultimately to the zenith of academic and professional achievement.

A consummate professional, scholar, and technocrat, Adamolekun has made indelible contributions to both the public sector and the intricate oil and gas industry. His work in these spheres was driven by a vision to harness Nigeria’s vast natural resources for the greater good, ensuring transparent communication between government agencies, labor groups, and host communities—thereby promoting peace and economic prosperity.

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His pioneering role as Head of Communications, Information, and Public Relations at MAMSER (Mass Mobilization for Self-Reliance, Social Justice, and Economic Recovery)—later restructured into the National Orientation Agency (NOA)—marked a defining chapter in his career. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in shaping public perception and galvanizing national support for social justice and economic transformation.

Dr. Wole Adamolekun is an intellectual colossus and an insatiable reader. He earned his first degree in English from the University of Lagos, followed by a diploma in Journalism and a Master’s degree in Communication from the prestigious University of Ibadan. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Media Arts from the University of Abuja.

With over four decades of professional experience spanning Corporate Communications, the Downstream Oil Sector, Micro Credit Administration (Community Banking), Youth & Social Mobilization, Human Resources Management, and Entrepreneurship, Adamolekun built a formidable career—starting as a freelance journalist with Daily Sketch. Recognized for his exceptional performance during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, he was recruited as an Information Officer under the mentorship of Mr. Soji Oni, the then Chief Inspector of NYSC in Ogun State—a man Adamolekun credits as one of his greatest mentors.

His career trajectory saw him transition from MAMSER to the Board of Community Banks, before rising to prominence in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, where he served as the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA). His mastery of strategic communication and industry dynamics earned him a reputation as a key architect of policies within the sector. Notably, he led a high-level delegation to India to study the use of gas as an alternative fuel, a project aimed at revolutionizing Nigeria’s energy landscape.

Beyond his professional achievements, Adamolekun is a relentless advocate for integrity and ethical leadership. He has consistently decried the erosion of values in public relations and governance, pushing for reforms that prioritize transparency, accountability, and professionalism. A prolific scholar, his extensive body of work, including academic journals and publications, has significantly influenced public relations discourse in Nigeria and beyond.

In his four decades of service, Dr. Adamolekun has been honored with numerous awards and accolades in both public and professional spheres. He holds memberships in some of the world’s most prestigious communication and public relations bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) in London, the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and the International Public Relations Association (IPRA).

Adamolekun is also a member of the African Council on Communication Education (ACCE) and a Board Member of the Commission on Public Relations Education (CPRE) in Washington, D.C. A Fellow of both the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the African Public Relations Association (APRA), he currently serves as Chair of the Academic & Research Council of the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management.

While many retire and fade into obscurity, Dr. Wole Adamolekun belongs to a rare breed—those who retire only to refire. Since 2014, he has continued to inspire and shape young minds as an Associate Professor in the Department of Mass Communication at Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin.

Beyond his professional and academic pursuits, Dr. Adamolekun is a devoted family man. He is happily married to Olabisi, his lifelong companion and pillar of support, whose unwavering strength and sacrifices have kept the family grounded throughout his years of dedicated service. Their union is blessed with four remarkable children, each excelling in their chosen fields with the same passion and dedication that define their father’s legacy.

Dr. Oluwole Adamolekun is, without a doubt, a man for all seasons—a trailblazer whose contributions to Public Relations, Communication, and Ethical Leadership have left an indelible mark on Nigeria and beyond. At a vibrant and impactful 70, he remains a force to be reckoned with, a mentor to many, and a shining example of integrity and excellence.

A standing ovation is truly deserved for this quintessential PR scholar, an ethical purist, a nation-builder, and a beacon of inspiration. Happy 70th Birthday, Dr. Wole Adamolekun!

Yushau Shuaib is the author of “A Dozen Tips for Media Relations.”

March 12, 2025
SEDC board visits Uzodimma, strengthens developmental ties with Imo

The South East Development Commission (SEDC) Board, led by its Chairman, Dr. Emeka Wogu, paid a working courtesy visit to Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma.

The engagement was aimed at fostering synergy between the Commission and Imo State Government to accelerate development in the South East region.

Wogu acknowledged Uzodimma’s giant strides in governance, particularly in infrastructure, security, industrialization and urban renewal.

He commended the Governor’s commitment to rebuilding and repositioning Imo State and noted that his administration’s projects align perfectly with the mandate of the SEDC.

Wogu highlighted road construction & rehabilitation, including the dualisation of Owerri-Orlu and Owerri-Okigwe roads, enhancing connectivity, Urban Renewal Initiatives such as the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre and the new Imo State House of Assembly complex.

He also pointed at healthcare infrastructure with 305 primary healthcare centres established across the state, Education & Industrialization, the conversion of Alvan Ikoku College of Education into a Federal University of Education and the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences in Umuagwo.

Economic Growth & Free Trade Zone, including the Orashi Free Trade Zone project to drive industrialization.

He reaffirmed that the SEDC was not created to compete with state governments but rather to will play complementary role with Imo state in the drive for development as SEDC is focused on addressing key developmental gaps in the region.

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Managing Director/CEO of SEDC, Hon. Mark Okoye, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to regional transformation, infrastructure development, economic growth & Industrialisation, power & energy; security & stability in the region.

He reassured Uzodimma that the SEDC would remain transparent, accountable and focused on delivering measurable progress.

Uzodimma thanked the SEDC delegation, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) for actualizing the South East Development Commission.

He described the Commission as a long-overdue initiative that provides a strategic platform for advancing the region.

The Governor reminded the SEDC that its role is to fill development gaps, not duplicate state efforts.

“SEDC and state governments are partners, not rivals”, He emphasised cohesion and teamwork as essential for success.

Uzodimma advised that while some projects must be commercially viable, others can be socially impactful to benefit the people.

“You must be vigilant, prudent, and focused on value addition” , He stressed that real success will be measured by the visible impact on people’s lives.

“Infrastructure, security, and power are key”, The Governor called for strong investment in roads, energy and security, which are fundamental to economic survival. “You have an intelligent MD, but results matter”, Governor Uzodinma encouraged the SEDC to execute impactful projects that will earn the trust and recognition of the people.

Uzodimma assured the SEDC of Imo State’s full cooperation, urging them to engage deeply with state governments to maximize developmental impact.

This high-level engagement underscores a new era of coordinated development, ensuring that the South East remains a thriving hub of infrastructure, industrialization and economic prosperity.

March 9, 2025
Oborevwori threatens to revoke non-performing contracts

Delta Governor, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, has threatened to revoke construction projects of contractors handling multiple projects but lack capacity.

He, however, said his administration would spare contractors that are able to handle multiple projects simultaneously.

According to him, the state government prepares payment schedules on a weekly basis to pay contractors as they turn-in their certificates.

Oborevwori, who disclosed this during inspection of Orere bridge in Ughelli South LGA, said his administration would no longer allow contractors to take projects they could not finish on time.

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He said the Orere bridge which was started by the previous administration, connects over fifteen riverine communities along the corridor.

“This bridge is very key to several communities within this area, without this bridge, accessing those communities is very difficult. So when this bridge is completed, it will be of very great benefit to about 15 communities around this area.

“Like I promised before, we are also going to engage indigenous contractors and that is what we are doing.

“Even though we are using some international companies, we also need to engage our local contractors and I think the quality of work is okay.

“We need to encourage our local contractors, but I am not happy with the speed of work, the momentum is not okay, the contractor needs to step up activity”, he said.

Continuing, Governor Oborevwori, said; “there is not enough speed on this job, if we continue like this, how long will I be here for inspection? I believe that when I come again it should be for final inspection before commissioning.

“So the contractor has till the end of this year to see what they will be able to do, even if we have to reduce their contract work in other places so they can concentrate.

“This is imperative because we can’t just have contractors with so many contracts and moving from one site to another sampling equipment when we are going for inspection.

“We will encourage contractors to take what they can do, when you finish your job on time, we will give you another job so that’s what we will be doing now.

“Those who are having too many jobs, we are going to revoke some of them that are not performing but if you are performing no problem, but if you are not performing we will revoke your contract and give it to those who can perform.”

On the economic viability of the bridge, Governor Oborevwori said, “if there is no economic value there is no way we can put this kind of bridge here but moreover they are also Deltans and like we have promised that we will be fair and just to the people of Delta State.

“From here you can access so many of these villages and bring their products to the town instead of using boats they will just drive through and even people can come from outside to the communities to buy produce.

“We have over five kilometers of road across because completing this bridge without the road will not make much sense to inhabitants of these communities.”

March 8, 2025
Bayelsa Govt wades into Ohanaeze Ndigbo election stalemate

• Suspends rerun election indefinitely

The Bayelsa State Government has announced the indefinite suspension of the rerun election scheduled for Saturday this week to produce a substantive President of the state chapter of Ohaneze Ndigbo.

It also announced the total disbandment of the Electoral Committee that conducted the election on the 23rd of February 2025 that ended in a stalemate, saying the committee fell short of expectations in the performance of its duties.

Speaking yesterday at a meeting with leaders and stakeholders of Ohaneze Ndigbo in the state at Government House, Yenagoa, the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, warned those planning to participate in the rerun election to have a change of mind in their own interest.

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The Deputy Governor, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr Doubara Atasi, at the weekend, explained that the state government decided to intervene to promote peace and harmony among the Igbos in Bayelsa as well as forestall the breakdown of law and order.

According to Ewhrudjakpo, the government has already given directive to security agencies to arrest and prosecute whoever that violates its directives bordering on the election of the state president of Ohaneze.

He acknowledged the supportive role being played by Igbos in the development of Bayelsa and urged them to continue to live as brothers and sisters and never allow the issue of electing a new leadership to divide them.

Ewhrudjakpo said: “As a government, we appreciate what you have been doing for our state. You are outstanding and that is why we respect you. This is the first time we are meeting again after our second term election. So, let me on behalf of the governor and myself, thank you for supporting us.

“We are not taking your support for granted. That is why for the first time in the history of this state, one of you, an Igbo son, is appointed as commissioner who sits with the governor at the state executive council to make decisions.

“Coming back to the issue that has brought us here, what do the Ohanaeze Ndigbo want? Would you allow the election of your leader to polarize and destroy Ohaneze Ndigbo in Bayelsa? Our answer is No, so for now, the government’s position is that that rerun is suspended indefinitely.

“On Saturday, the security agencies will be deployed round; so, anybody who gathers in the name of doing Ohanaeze election in this state will be a guest to the Police or DSS.

“Government will not impose any candidate on Ohanaeze, but the government will ensure that there is peace and tranquility. We want to see how we can reconcile you people. On that note, we are setting up a reconciliation committee now.”

Ewhrudjakpo, who assured the Igbos that government, would do everything within its reach including adopting the “Doctrine of Necessity” to address the lacunas in their constitution to achieve amicable resolution of the current logjam.

To this end, he constituted a reconciliation committee to look into the issues causing the dispute and come up with recommendations within the next two weeks to enable the government to settle the misunderstanding.

Earlier in their submissions, the two candidates contesting the position of Presidency of Ohaneze Ndigbo in the state, which is zoned to Anambra State, Dr. Frank Odinekwe, and Dr. Anthony Olikagwu, appealed to the state government to help the sociopolitical organization resolve its internal conflict.

Responding on behalf of the Reconciliation Committee, the Chairman and Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, High Chief Collins Cocodia, expressed gratitude to the Deputy Governor for finding them worthy for the assignment and pledged to work hard to achieve the committee’s purpose.

March 8, 2025