The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southeast report

  • Okechukwu lauds Tinubu’s committment to SEDC

    Okechukwu lauds Tinubu’s committment to SEDC

    The Executive Director (Projects), South-East Development Commission (SEDC) and former Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Toby Okechukwu, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his vision and commitment in integrating the South Eastern part of Nigeria into his developmental policies, through the interventionist commission.

    Okechukwu gave the commendation on Tuesday during the Orji River Economic and Development Summit held in Orji River Local Government Area of Enugu State.

    The primary objectives of the Economic and Development Summit were to: create awareness of the potential of Oji River in terms of location and natural resources, promote long term and sustainable development and prosperity and Encourage investment and collaboration between public and private sectors as well as external stakeholders.

    Delivering his goodwill message at the event,  Okechukwu, who once represented Aninri, Awgu, and Orji River Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said that the SEDC was set up with a clear mission to drive sustainable development and position the South-East as Africa’s preferred investment destination by 2030.

    The former lawmaker lamented the war decades ago damaged more than infrastructure, as it also broke the region’s momentum, stressing that the mission of the commission is to drive sustainable development, economic growth, and unity in the South East through strategic investments and empowerment initiatives.

    Okechukwu said: “The Commission was established under the SEDC Act 2024 and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as a critical vehicle to accelerate the recovery, reinvention, and prosperity of the South East region. 

    “The war decades ago damaged more than our roads and homes, disrupted our economic rhythm, slowed our institutions, and deepened a sense of marginalization. SEDC is our collective answer to that history. We must not wait for the centre to fix the East. We have to do it ourselves and do it smartly.

    “Our mission is to drive sustainable development, economic growth, and unity in the South East through strategic investments and empowerment initiatives.

    ” Our vision is to position the South East as the preferred investment destination in Africa by 2030. We are therefore taking action: To build a $1 billion asset base within 10 years by strategically leveraging both public and private capital. We are developing programs for urban renewal, energy hubs, innovation corridors, and agro-industrial zones.

    “The war decades ago damaged more than our roads and homes, disrupted our economic rhythm, slowed our institutions, and deepened a sense of marginalization. SEDC’s clear roadmap demonstrates that we are not just a bureaucracy; we are focused on long-term goals while executing in real time.

    ” It is a business-minded, regionally driven platform for catalytic change. We are launching security interventions, investing in startups, restoring broken infrastructure, and activating our human capital.”

    Focusing on the summit’s host community, Orji River, Okechukwu described the Local Government Area as uniquely positioned within the Awka–Enugu–Onitsha economic corridor, whose economy, when properly harnessed, should be above many in the country.

    He urged stakeholders in Oji River to take advantage of key SEDC opportunities, including the Priority Project Fund, diaspora-driven urban planning, youth enterprise grants, regional security investments, and the planned 50,000-hectare agricultural development initiative.

    “Oji River is not on the margin of development. It is on the edge of opportunity. The future of this region depends on smart alignment, and Oji River should not be looking only inward. 

    “We should be thinking across borders economically, logistically, and strategically. Oji River doesn’t need to wait to be absorbed into someone else’s plan. It has to position itself and shape the agenda.

    “SEDC has allocation available to each state for high-impact projects. This money is not allocated based on size; it is allocated based on readiness. Identify the land. Mobilise your cooperatives. Get into the conversation. If you are stable, connected, and well-policed, you become a node of confidence in the regional economy.”

    He also emphasised the need for strategy and coordination as the people of Oji River mobilize for the new wave of growth.

    Read Also: PDP must apologise for overheating polity – APC chieftain Okechukwu 

    “The people of Oji River are not lacking in talent. We are not lacking in ideas. What we need now is organisation, structure, and speed. There needs to be a deliberate effort to identify Oji River’s comparative advantage. Put together your priority project list. Build your partnerships. Package your proposals. Make them bankable.”

    The former lawmaker also appreciated the National Assembly, particularly, the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu for legislative ingenuity in ensuring that SEDC Act was enacted, passed, and assented to.

    Chronicling President Tinubu’s administration’s efforts for the development of the South East region, He hailed the President for several projects that are beneficial to the region such as the construction of the Abia Airport, launch of the 5th Expanded National MSME Clinic in Enugu State and so on.

    Rt. Hon Toby used the occasion to reaffirm his personal and professional commitment to the growth of Oji River and the Greater Awgu region.

    “I may hold a new portfolio, but my commitment to this place has never changed. Where Oji River is building, I will be there. Where your ideas are ready, I will open doors. Where your ambition matches your execution, I will match it with advocacy. Let’s not talk about the future anymore. Let’s build it,” he added.

  • Ilaje: Nwifuru gives financial support to 800 Ebonyi victims

    Ilaje: Nwifuru gives financial support to 800 Ebonyi victims

    Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has disbursed N200, 000 each as financial assistance to about 800 indigenes of Ebonyi State who were evacuated back to Ebonyi State from the Ilaje Otumara village demolition exercise by the Lagos State Government.

    The victims mostly women and children who were repatriated back about 4 weeks ago by the State Government now share tale of relief from the benevolence of the State Government.

    One of them, Charity Okeosisi described their experience as painful and agonizing.

    She noted that many of them lost all they had laboured for in life and said that they have been forced to start life all over again on arrival to Ebonyi State.

    Mrs. Okeosisi who expressed a sigh of relief following the disbursement of the funds by the State Governor noted that weeks after the Ebonyi State Government evacuated them back to Ebonyi State, they has been living from hand to mouth as there are nothing left for them to feed.

    Another beneficiary, Mrs. Martina Ofoke, expresses satisfaction that the Ebonyi State Governor heard their cry and promptly intervened on their behalf pointing out that the financial assistance of the State Government will will go a long way in helping them put food on their table.

    Some other affected victims while commending the gesture of the state government assistance also expressed the optimism that the State will also empower them to start up something in the State as they have no other place to go.

    The State Commissioner for Special duties and Focal Person, Ebonyi State Diaspora office, Mr. Valentine Okike-Uzo handed over the cheques to the victims.

    He noted that this is one of the measures the state government deployed to cushion the hardship faced by the victims repatriated back to the State.

    Read Also: Umahi: Political jobbers trying to pit me against Governor Nwifuru

    Okike-Uzo assured that the approximately 800 victims who were properly documented will all receive the N200,000 naira financial assistance of the state government and urged them to utilize it well in meaningful ventures.

    He assured the victims that the State Government would also come up with more intervention programs that will help in resettling them and urged them to remain good citizens of the State while they reside in their different localities.

    The Commissioner took turns to hand over the cheque to the victims.

  • PWDs protest alleged exclusion from EMOIMEE host community devt trust in Akwa Ibom

    PWDs protest alleged exclusion from EMOIMEE host community devt trust in Akwa Ibom

    People living with disabilities (PWDs) from Eket, Esit Eket, and Onna local government areas have staged a protest over their alleged exclusion from the EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust (HCDT).

    The protesters shut down the EMOIMEE HCDT office in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, accusing the Trust’s management of sidelining them in its empowerment and development initiatives.

    Mr. Benjamin Eyene, who spoke on behalf of the group, expressed disappointment over their continued neglect despite multiple appeals and formal letters.

    “We have not been carried along in the Trust’s programmes. Qualified members among us should benefit from the scholarship scheme, and we deserve representation on the Trust’s management committee,” Eyene said.

    Read Also: Akwa Ibom strengthens ties with UN for economic diversification

    The group also demanded the establishment of special skill acquisition centres—three per local government area—to support persons with disabilities.

    They vowed to continue the peaceful protest until their grievances are addressed by the Trust’s management.

  • Hakama Sidi-Ali, others win 2025 National Spokespersons awards

    Hakama Sidi-Ali, others win 2025 National Spokespersons awards

    A Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) official, Hakama Sidi-Ali won the Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector) at the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards, the second in a row. Held at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel, the ceremony was part of the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Summit grand finale.

    Organised by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), the publisher of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest, the awards celebrate innovation and professionalism in public communication across public and private sectors.

    NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Hon. Rotimi Akintunde Jr., Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, commended the recipients for their exemplary standards in the field and encouraged them to maintain the qualities that garnered national recognition.

    Sidi-Ali was lauded for her proactive communication strategies in connecting the central bank and Nigerians since assuming office. Her significant role in countering misinformation regarding the introduction of N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes calmed public concern and maintained financial stability.

    Experts also acknowledged the CBN Director of Corporate Communications’ adept dissemination during Nigeria’s recent negotiations with the United States over the new tariffs, saying it underscores her proficiency in international economic diplomacy.

    The 2025 ceremony showcased a variety of individuals and institutions excelling in strategic communication and public affairs. It also underlined the critical role of credible voices in shaping public perception, fostering institutional trust, and enhancing democratic accountability.

    Mr. Olufemi Soneye of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) was named Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas); Dr. Fabian Benjamin from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) was recognized as Outstanding Spokesperson (Education Sector).

    Read Also: Kano APC asks Kwankwaso to apologise to President, Shettima before joining party

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) shone as Mrs. Hadiza Umar won the Outstanding Spokesperson (Digital Economy); NITDA DG, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi emerged as the Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public Sector).

    In the security and enforcement category, Mr. Femi Babafemi of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and ACP Muyiwa Adejobi of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) were praised for their remarkable media presence and effective crisis communication.

    The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) was declared Best Corporate Spokesperson Team, while Air Peace won the Most Influential Corporate Voice. UNILORIN’s Lukman Temitope Omoniyi won the Best Corporate Voice on Social Media, highlighting the significance of digital platforms in branding.

    Gombe’s Ismaila Uba Misilli, Outstanding State Government Spokesperson; Sade Morgan of Nigerian Breweries, Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson; Viola Graham-Douglas of LAFARGE, Most Innovative Spokesperson (Multinational); LAFARGE’s CEO, Mr. Lolu Alde-Akinyemi, Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Private Sector).

    With over 20 categories covered, including health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance, and crisis management, the awards emphasized the growing importance of public relations and strategic communication as essential components of governance and corporate reputation.

    Segun McMedal, Chairman of the Planning Committee, praised winners and nominees for their vital roles in sustaining public trust and shaping national discourse. He urged all communicators to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and professionalism.

    Dignitaries at the event included former Ministers of Information—Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, Labaran Maku—and the incumbent Alhaji Mohammed Idris. The summit featured high-level discussions graced by ex-Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele and other eminent figures.

    In its fifth edition, the National Spokespersons Awards, previously known as the Spokespersons’ Communication Awards (SCA), continue to serve as a premier platform for recognizing impactful and professional public communication in Nigeria.

  • Group to host 5-million-man march in support of Tinubu, Kalu in Abia

    Group to host 5-million-man march in support of Tinubu, Kalu in Abia

    The Coalition of Southeast Youth Leaders (COSEYL) is preparing to hold a major rally in Abia State to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s achievements and commend his efforts and policies across the Southeast region.

    In a statement released on Monday, the group confirmed that all arrangements for the rally have been finalized.

    COSEYL’s President General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, and Secretary General, Comrade Okey Nwaoru, announced plans to mobilize five million youths from the Southeast to show support for President Tinubu and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who represents Abia North in the Senate.

    “We are committed to ensuring a well-organized event that will serve as a platform to highlight the outstanding leadership of President Bola Tinubu and Senator Orji Kalu,” Ibem stated.

     “The rally is expected to build momentum for the 2027 campaigns and reinforce the president’s vision for the nation’s continued progress.”

    Read Also: APC under Tinubu will give us Anioma state – Senator Nwoko

    According to the group, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, a prominent Igbo politician, has been instrumental in supporting President Tinubu’s initiatives. 

    “President Tinubu’s efforts have yielded significant results in the Southeast geopolitical zone, driving notable advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and more,” Ibem said. 

    He added: “With Senator Orji Kalu at the helm, we’re optimistic about a brighter future for our region and the nation.

    “We are convinced that Kalu’s transformative leadership, coupled with youth support, will play a crucial role in securing a substantial 90% electoral victory for President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.”

  • Shettima launches ARISE human capacity devt strategy plan in A’Ibom

    Shettima launches ARISE human capacity devt strategy plan in A’Ibom

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has launched the ARISE Human Capital Development (HCD) Strategy Plan in Akwa Ibom state.

    Shettima while unveiling the HCD at the banquet of the Government House on Monday urged other states in the country to adopt and localise the programme.

    The VP hailed Governor Umo Eno for the HCD vision, the first of it’s kind in the country, saying that the plan will provide a template for wealth, education, health and human capital development for Akwa Ibom state.

    He said that every policy or programme that intervenes in the lives of our people could only succeed if it is rooted in the grassroots. 

    Shettima added that the national human capital development programme, which has entered it second phase is a solution that has been re-engineered to meet the moment.

    “This is a declaration that true wealth of any nation lies in the certainly of it human capital development the education of it people, the health of it citizens and the productivity of it workforce

    “And what has brought us here to Uyo, the launch of the ARISE human capital development strategy by Governor Umo Eno is a template for states of the federation. 

    “It is a strategy that we cannot build an enduring past without a solid foundation. 

    “What Akwa Ibom has assured us here is not just progress but core leadership. It has become the first state in the nation to localize the HCD vision in it square point,” Shettima said.

    The vice president urged other States of the federation to emulate the Akwa Ibom strategic human capital development plan.

    Shettima commended Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom for his leadership vision in driving the initiative in the state.

    In his remarks, Gov Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said the programme of human capital development became imperative due to the paucity of trained manpower to address the challenges the world and the nation had faced in the aftermath of COVID-19.

    Eno said that it became necessary and proper for the State Government to strengthen individual and institutional capacities to rise in real time to confront future pandemics.

    “Human Capital Development Plan apart from the the above key area is also designed to expansively provide key human-centric projects such as; healthcare services, which we are currently executing through our investments in the construction and equipping of primary healthcare centres.

    “The provision of quality education at both the primary and secondary levels with the construction and equipping of model primary schools.

    “The planned construction of model secondary schools in three senatorial districts; the empowerment of our people, and equipping them with requisite skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

    “This, we have done with the establishment of Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Centre (IBOM-LED) which today, has trained over 4, 000 people with start-up grants ranging from N5, 000, 00-N750, 000.

    “The Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC), where we recently graduated over 400 trainees in various areas of marketable and entrepreneurial skills-set. 

    “These 400 graduands who were trained in areas such as ICT, mechanised agriculture, carpentry, fashion design, tourism etc will be further exposed to additional trainings by IBOM-LED in entrepreneurial and other critical skillset,” Eno said.

    The governor commended the administration President Bola Tinubu for this critical initiative, stressing that the President does not play politics with development.

    He said the state was highly appreciative of the Federal Government for selecting Akwa Ibom as the first for the launch of the programme.

    “We are thrilled that our State was selected as the first for the launch of this program. 

    Read Also: Shettima graces turbanning of legal icon, Yusuf Ali, in Ilorin

    “This has further reinforced the fact that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, does not play politics with development and this we deeply appreciate,” he said.

    In her goodwill message, Mrs Nkechi Obi, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Techno Oil Limited said that there could not be any meaningful development of any society without a deliberate actionable roadmap to address the critical challenges militating against human capital development.

    Obi said that the importance of human capital development to the economic buoyancy of a developing country like Nigeria cannot be overemphasised.

    She said that Techno oil is in the forefront of ensure cleaner, greener safer and more environment friendly cooking for the women by producing quality cooking cylinders for the nation.

    “As a woman, I strongly believe that our women and girls must not cook to die, rather they must cook to live.

    “Techno Oil Limited which has been in business for over two decades is an integrated, wholly indigenous company which today holds a diverse portfolio of prime investment in oil and gas, energy, infrastructure and manufacturing.

    “As a strategic partner committed to the Energy Transition Plan, LPG Utilization and expansion programmes of the Federal Government of Nigeria, 

    “Techno Oil have in operation an Ultra-modern LPG Cylinder Manufacturing Plant with an annual production capacity of five million Cylinders,” Obi said.

    Obi said from 2013 to date, Techno Oil has distributed over 20, 000 units of 6KG LPG cylinders to indigent women in Nigeria as Corporate Social Responsibility, aimed at promoting clean cooking amongst women and girls.

    In his welcome remark, the chairman , Akwa Ibom State Human Capital Development Council, Dr Nathaniel Adiakpan noted that the ARISE Human Capital Development Strategic Plan represents the collective resolve to empower citizens through education, key development and opportunities that foster innovation and creativity.

    Adiakpan said the comprehensive framework is designed to address the unique needs of communities, to ensure that every citizen has resources and support releasing to thrive.

  • Governor Alia to convene benue security summit amid rising insecurity in Benue

    Governor Alia to convene benue security summit amid rising insecurity in Benue

    Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State has announced plans to organize a state-wide Security Summit as part of efforts to tackle the growing insecurity across the state.

    The governor made the disclosure on Saturday, April 12, 2025, during an interaction with an advisory team dispatched by the Chief of Defence Staff to assess the security challenges in the state. 

    The meeting took place at the Government House in Makurdi.

    Governor Alia noted that the state has witnessed a surge in violent attacks, particularly targeting specific local government areas, necessitating urgent and coordinated action.

    “Benue has experienced increased attacks in recent times and those are mostly coming from very specific local governments, and the heat of it all is Kwande, Ukum, Katsina-ala, Logo, and Gwer-West.

    “I am aware that Benue State is not the only state that is affected by this but I want you to know that we have suffered quite intensely, and the Benue people in those local government areas have undergone what is beyond imagination.”

    The governor further stated that his administration has held several strategic meetings with the Office of the National Security Adviser. 

    He revealed that a committee, comprising representatives from the state government and the private sector, is already working towards organizing the Benue State Security Summit. 

    In addition, he noted that the state’s Civil Protection Guards have been strengthened to support conventional security agencies in ending the ongoing killings and displacement of residents.

    “As I speak, we have a team that is working in conjunction with the state and private sector on having a Benue security summit 

    “We want to hold that first and then I’m already in talks with my colleague Governors in the North Central for us to hold a North Central Security Summit.” He added.

    Governor Alia who thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa for his efforts in ensuring that peace returns in Benue State, advised the Advisory team to extend their visit to the neighbouring states of Taraba and Nasarawa.

    “We share borders with our brothers here. I feel your visit should not just stop in Benue, let the Chief of Defence Staff extend this visit to our neighbouring states of Taraba and Nasarawa.”

    He called on the team to publicize the names of those it identified as sponsors of militia in the state, adding that something must be done immediately to restore peace in Benue.

    Earlier, the leader of the team, Air Vice Marshal Emmanuel Oche (Rtd) explained that their visit has provided an opportunity for them to interact with relevant stakeholders, listen to them and come up with the best ways of ending the increase number of killings in Benue state, stressing that they had identified non kinetic approach as the best way of handling the issue at a moment.

    Read Also: Alia distances self from Peter Obi’s visit to Benue

    While commending Governor Alia for his efforts towards restoring peace in the state, the team suggested that disarming, reintegration, and resettlement of militia in some part of the state would go a long way in solving the security challenges.

    Assisted by the Director General of the Benue Bureau of Homeland Security, Air Commodore Jacob Ayangeakaa Gbamwuan (Rtd), the team earlier visited the Tor Tiv HRM Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse and the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina-ala Most Rev’d Isaac Dugu where they also got information about the security situation in the state.

    The team was set to also visit Zone C where they would interact with the Och’ Idoma, HRM Elaigwu Odogbo John and other stakeholders in the area.

  • CBM, EU, launch three-year disability project in Delta, Benue

    CBM, EU, launch three-year disability project in Delta, Benue

    The Christian Blind Mission (CBM) in collaboration with the European Union, has launched a three-year disability project to enhance inclusive development and sustainability for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Delta and Benue states.

    Speaking in an interview during the launch of the Disability Rights Advocacy Project for Inclusive Development (D-RAPID), Country Director, CBM Nigeria, Omoi Samuel said that the project launch was apt, especially since the moratorium period for the implementation of the National Disability law had elapsed.

    He said the project is to support the implementation of the Discrimination of Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Act.

    Samuel said: “The law is exactly six years, the moratorium period for implementation has elapsed and yet the implementation across the country is far from where it should be. Though little progress has been made, we believe more can be achieved.

    “With the support of the EU, we are optimistic that more would be achieved especially in the pilot states, and later in other states.”

    Samuel said that the project would create the necessary awareness needed to enhance implementation of the law.

    He said it would also empower stakeholders with technical capacity to advocate for disabilities inclusion in government plans, programmes and policies.

    Also speaking, the EU Delegation Programme Manager for Civil Society, Youth and Human Rights, Ms Winifred Achu-Egbuson said that the project was targeted at empowering stakeholders to enhance inclusiveness in the society, workplace and health sector aside others, in both states.

    She said: “The newly launched project co-funded by the Christian blind mission is being implemented in Delta and Benue states by The Abino Foundation (TAF) Africa and the Nigerian Women Trust Fund.

    “For us in the EU, human rights is one of our core and major principles and a value that we promote across the world.

    “The EU believes that disability inclusion is a part of human rights and a mandate that should be upheld across sectors, hence the support to ensure that disability inclusion is made possible in these states,” she said.

    The EU representative said that the D-RAPID programme would also empower government stakeholders such as the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWDS).

    “The aim is to build the capacity of the stakeholders to ensure disability is included in all government programmes and policies,” she added.

    She said that the three years programme which started on March 3 would end in March 2028.

    She said that measures were being put in place to sustain the programme and to accommodate more states based on the progress made from the two pilot states.

    On his part, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWDS), Ayuba Gufwan commended the EU and CBM for their initiative in advocating disabilities inclusion in Nigeria.

    Gufwan said that the project was a step in the right direction as it would have a significant impact on the PWDs in the states.

    Senior Special Assistant to the President on disability matters, Mohammed Isa said the present administration was committed to providing opportunities for persons with disabilities.

    He called for more collaboration to implement the project.

    Also, the Director Rehabilitation, Community Welfare and Social Development, Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs, Micheal Odie commended the EU and its partner for choosing Delta for the D-RAPID pilot project.

    He said Delta state was making efforts through the women affairs to ensure inclusiveness in the state.

    Odie said: “We have several programmes focusing on persons with disabilities and the bill protecting them has been passed.

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    “With this project being implemented in the state now, we believe it would also enhance the work already being done while barriers limiting PWDS from inclusion would be completely eradicated.”

    Also, the Minority Leader, Benue State House of Assembly, Saater Tiseer lauded the initiative of the EU and CBM in implementing the project in the state.

    According to him, the project is a step in the right direction.

    He said: “We believe that this project will be impactful especially in the aspect of technical support for government stakeholders in including disabilities in their plans, programmes and policies.

    “It will also give persons with disabilities in the state a sense of belonging and motivate them not to relent in their struggles for inclusion in every sector.”

  • Martha Agba felicitates Cross River First Lady on birthday

    Martha Agba felicitates Cross River First Lady on birthday

    A former House of Representatives aspirant, Honourable Martha Agba, has extended her warmest congratulations to Reverend Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, wife of the Governor of Cross River State, on the occasion of her birthday today. 

    Agba, an advocate for women empowerment, in a statement on Thursday, acknowledged Mrs. Otu’s tireless efforts in promoting the welfare and well-being of women and children.

    She said the First Lady’s commitment to uplifting the lives of others was inspiring. 

    Agba also expressed her deepest gratitude to Mrs. Otu for her mentorship of young women in politics, empowering them to become active participants in shaping the future of Cross River State and Nigeria at large. 

    She added that her dedication to fostering a culture of inclusivity and equality is a beacon of hope for generations to come.

    The politician, who was also an aspirant for chairperson of Obudu local council, commended Mrs. Otu for her unwavering support of her husband’s policies, particularly in ensuring gender equality in the state.

    “Her role in promoting women’s participation in governance and decision-making processes is invaluable,” Agba said. 

    Read Also: Special agro zones take off in Kaduna, Cross River States

    The statement reads in part: “As a respected leader and advocate for women’s empowerment, I acknowledge Mrs. Otu’s tireless efforts to promotinh the welfare and well-being of women and children in Cross River State. 

    “Her commitment to uplifting the lives of others is truly inspiring 

    “On this special day, I wish our hardworking Governor’s wife, a joyous birthday celebration, filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends. May this milestone mark the beginning of another year of good health, happiness, and continued service to the people of Cross River State.”

  • World Igbo Congress sets strict entry conditions for US convention

    World Igbo Congress sets strict entry conditions for US convention

    The World Igbo Congress (WIC) has announced that only carefully selected and vetted Igbo leaders will be allowed to attend its international convention, scheduled for August 29, 2025, in New England, United States.

    The announcement was made by the Vice Chairman of WIC, Hon. Basil Onwukwe, who explained that the new condition is to ensure that only those who are genuinely committed to the Igbo cause are part of the gathering.

    “This decision stems from a growing concern over the misrepresentation of the Igbo cause for inordinate ambition from many quarters,” Onwukwe said.

    “While our people remain trapped in jails across Nigeria, many of our so-called leaders are only concerned about their interests and their families in Abuja.”

    He said the WIC Chairman, Dr. Festus Okere, along with other executives, has signed a formal agreement with the Igbo Organization of New England (IONE), the host group for this year’s convention.

    “This will be the largest gathering of Ndigbo in the Northeast of the U.S. in a long time,” Onwukwe noted. “IONE is a respected and well-organized group, and the timing of this partnership is perfect.”

    According to him, the President of IONE, Chief Bonny Chibueze, and Vice President Dr. Ubiem, have already set up a strong planning committee led by Dr. Joyce Nwosu and Dr. Ejike Eze, to ensure the success of the event.

    “These are seasoned professionals who understand the importance of promoting Igbo culture and unity around the world,” he said.

    The convention will take place at the 1000 Marriott Boston Quincy, a venue chosen for its modern facilities and ease of access.

    “We’ve picked a multi-venue arena with direct flights and shuttle services available. It’s first come, first served, and attendees are encouraged to use the promo code ‘WIC 2025’ for reservations,” Onwukwe added.

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    He described IONE as an organization rich in culture and knowledge, which has grown beyond social gatherings to become a hub for mentorship and entrepreneurship among Igbo youths in New England.

    “IONE does not tolerate any abuse of Igbo culture or unity. Their monthly meetings are now platforms for sharing ideas and helping our young people connect to their roots,” Onwukwe said.

    He also revealed that IONE has nearly 500 investment members and that the Massachusetts government recognizes Igbo Day as a public holiday, often sending delegates to join the celebration.

    The theme of the 2025 convention is “Igbo Ebilia”, which translates to “The Igbos Have Risen.” Onwukwe said it will be a global carnival of Igbo pride and identity.

    “This will be a convention no one should miss. It is a celebration of who we are and where we are going as a people,” he concluded.