Category: Southeast report

Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola have inaugurated 150 housing units built in Enugu State, financed by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN).

Speaking at the inauguration of the I-Connect Investment Cooperative Society Ltd Housing Estate at Trans-Ekulu in Enugu, the minister said the new houses brought the number of housing units built by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration in Enugu State to over 1,520 in nine projects.

Fashola said: “The 150 housing units here are very symbolic. It’s a symbol of many things ongoing in the housing sector. It is part of 404 housing units, which have been completed.

“It symbolises small part as a part of a larger part. Even the 404 is also part of a larger part of 1,520 housing units in nine projects.

“So, one state, one bank and there are nine projects in Enugu State.”

Read Also: UNICEF lauds Ugwuanyi’s commitment to partnership, women’s welfare, others

He noted that the Federal Government had done so much to reduce poverty by providing houses for Nigerians.

Governor Ugwuanyi thanked the Federal Government for what it had been doing in the Southeast such as the second Niger Bridge, Enugu-Onitsha Road, among others.

The governor, represented by his deputy, Mrs. Cecelia Ezeilo, said the state government was doing a lot on road projects, to ensure the residents had access to good roads.

“I also thank the FMBN and its partners for making these houses available for the people,” the governor said.

FMBN Managing Director Madu Hamman, represented by the Executive Director, Loans and Mortgage Services, Lukman Mustapha, said the successful delivery of the project had shown that

the cooperative housing initiative developed by the bank could be a game

changer in the bank’s efforts at tackling housing shortage facing Nigerians.

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Delta State in the last general election, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, on Wednesday, insisted that he won the gubernatorial election in the state.

Omo-Agege who is the Deputy President of the Senate, spoke when he received Hon. Mercy Almona-Isei led delegation from Ndokwa/ Ukwuani 9n a thank you visit to him over the recent establishment of a Federal University of Medical and Health Science, in Kwale in Delta State, facilitated by the DSP.

He vowed to reclaim his stolen mandate from the candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sheriff Oborevwori through the legal process.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), had in the election conducted on March 18, 2023, declared Oborevwori of PDP as winner with 360,234 votes, which was over 120,000 votes above 240,229 votes reportedly scored by Omo- Agege.

But Omo-Agege told the delegation that the result declared by INEC, was a ruse that cannot stand the test of legal scrutiny in court.

Read Also: ‘Why I asked tribunal to disqualify Oborevwori, Omo-Agege, two others’

He said: “I won the Delta Governorship election conducted in March this year by INEC, clean and clear.

“All the manipulations carried out by PDP in collaboration with some staff of INEC, have been exposed and will be used as exhibits in the court of law.

“I am determined to fight it all the way because the real valid votes scored by me in the election, are more than enough to declare me as the governor-elect.”

Omo-Agege added that President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, should be thanked for the establishment of the university.

He said that he facilitated the institution without any consultation or collaboration with anybody in Delta State.

“I didn’t do it in consultation with anybody. I did it all by myself. If anybody should be thanked for the University, it should be President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu,” he said.

He warned no compensation should be demanded for the 100 hectares of land donated for the University, saying: “the issue of ownership of shrine or farm, should not arise from any quarters.”

On Sunday, 14th May 2023, Italy-based Nigerian-born Afro-pop star, Onoriode Oghenevwogaga, AKA ONOS MORGAN was recognised for his music, philanthropic, and entrepreneurial ventures. He is also the Founder and CEO of The Onos Morgan Brand and the Onos Morgan Foundation.
 
Onos Morgan received the Artist/Philanthropist/Business Entrepreneur of the Year award in the 6th Edition of the Warri Entertainment Recognition Awards (WERA). Themed “THE FUTURE IS OURS,” the ceremony took place at the renowned Wetland Hotel in Ughelli, Delta State.
 
WERA celebrates consistency and rewards the efforts of entertainers and entrepreneurs in Warri, Delta State. It showcases those who have contributed to the community through their talent and service. The platform also acknowledges their impact on societal and human capital development.
 
Deservedly, WERA recognized Onos Morgan for being a positive influence in the community. The accolade reflects his dedication to improving the state’s entertainment and socio-economic status. Other superstar artists who have won a WERA award include Erigga, Victor Ad, and Graham D.
 
But Onos Morgan couldn’t attend the WERA ceremony in person due to his engagements overseas. His Nigerian team represented him and accepted the award on his behalf.
 
The artist expressed his gratitude to God for His support and blessings. He also praised his fans, friends, family, and well-wishers around the world for their motivation and encouragement. Extending his gratitude to WERA organizers, he applauded them for their exceptional work and thanked them for honoring him with such a prestigious award.
 
Notably, ten days after the 6th edition of the WERA ceremony, the organizers made noteworthy changes. Moving forward, the Warri Entertainment and Recognition Awards (WERA) will now be officially known as the Deltans Entertainment and Recognition Awards/Conference (DERA). The platform maintains that it remains dedicated to rewarding individuals who have contributed to the growth of the entertainment and creative ecosystem in Delta State.
 
Onos Morgan started out as a street dancer in Warri before becoming an international success. This is proof of his resilience and determination. After moving to Italy, he broke into the music scene in 2021 after releasing his award-winning debut single, “ALIKA.”

Read Also: I’m the next big thing in music, says Bobbyaino
 
The award-winning artist also won a singing contest organized by Nokep TV and Sony Records in Italy. In 2022, he delighted fans with his second single, “GET ME.”
 
Onos Morgan’s performances have stunned audiences worldwide. He electrified stages across Europe while accompanying Omah Lay on the #BoyAloneWorldTour. He also left a lasting impression at the Graham D Live in Bergamo City Concert on March 18, 2023.
 
Beyond his musical talents, Onos Morgan has established himself as a symbol of success and giving back. He has built a brand that encompasses fashion, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. And he also recognizes the importance of community support.
 
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Onos Morgan donated to underprivileged communities in Nigeria. The entrepreneur provided hand sanitizers and gloves worth over 6 million naira. He has also created several opportunities for aspiring artists and youths through his foundation.
 
As we celebrate the triumphs of Onos Morgan, his story should inspire us to pursue our passions and stay committed to making a difference. And one day, we’ll create a lasting legacy that resonates with the world.

The Coordinator of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Presidential Campaign Council(PCC), in Rivers State, Tony Okocha , has said he is going to lead a delegation from the state to Abuja for the Inauguration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the 16th President on May 29.

Tinubu emerged winner in the February 25, Presidential election. He defeated his two closest contenders from the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi.

Okocha, who claims to be the Leader of APC in the state, told reporters in Port Harcourt that he would lead delegates from the state first for pre-inaugural Christian prayers at the Unity Fountain also in Abuja on May 27, from where they would proceed to the Eagle Square for the Presidential Inauguration.

He said: “The progressives have set aside a state by state prayer session at the Unity Fountain Abuja as part of Presidential Inauguration activities.

“On the 27th of this month, Rivers people will be hosting that prayer session at the Unity Fountain in Abuja, and we’re going there in our large number. On May 29, same delegation with more persons will be joining us at the nauguration to cover our Rivers space at the pavilion.

“Our pavilion will not going to be empty, we’re going there in a style, in our Rivers style and fashion, and I, Tony Okocha will be leading the delegation for the two national events.” he boasted.

Okocha spoke when media practitioners from his Ikwerre ethnic nationality, under the aegis of Ikwerre Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria(IMPAN), awarded him “Political Shinning Light of Ikwerreland ” in recognition of his contributions in shaping the political landscape in Ikwerre ethnicity.

Read Also: Transition Council rolls out Tinubu, Shettima inauguration programme

He thanked the Governor Nyesom Wike for his support and efforts to ensure Tinubu’s victory in the state, recalling that, Rivers State is the only state in the Southsouth and Southeast geopolitical zones, where Tinubu won the poll.

“We must continue to speak the truth on the political issues in the state. Truth might be bitter though, but the much I know is that there is nothing bitter in the attribute of the word, truth.

“As a profound philosophy student, I know that truth is immutable, colourless and universal.

“In the political scene today in Rivers State, and the bid where Rivers State is back to the national politics; Governor Wike and his PDP family in Rivers State paid the Piper…, and he who pays the Piper, dictated the tune.”he insisted.

Reacting on the recognition he received, the lawyer expressed joy and gratitude to Ikwerre media practitioners for the award particularly, as “the Political Shinning Light of Ikwerreland”.

“I am so honoured by the name of the award given to me and considering the fact that I am the 3rd person the group has recognised with award in the 15 years of its existence makes me feel more honoured and I owe them a dept of gratitude.”

He assured the group, indigenes of his Ikwerre ethnic nationality of more commitments and service for the developement and growth of the ethnicity and the state at large

“I owe them loyalty, respect, support.’’

In a speech by the group’s chairman, Chf. Monday Wehere, before the award, said the group was founded in 2008, with the objective to develop Ikwerre ethnic nationality with the help of their professionals

Wehere noted that another critical aim of the media group he leads is to identify and award indigenes of the ethnic group who have excelled in their areas of endeavour to encourage them to do more and motivate others to excellence.

“However, we’re very careful in giving out the award. This suggests the reason why in the 15 years of the existence of the group, what we have come here to do today .’’

• •Targets 2025 governorship poll 

All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to reconcile some of the party’s leaders in Anambra State, like the Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, Sen. Andy Uba and Dr. George Moghalu, among others. 

As a result, the party has planned to set up committees to achieve its goals before the race for 2025 governorship election begins. 

During its stakeholders meeting at Finotel Hotel at the weekend, Anambra State Chairman of the party, Sir Basil Ejidike, said those who played anti-party roles during the February 25 presidential election and other elections would not go unpunished. 

The party made it clear that the victory of President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the poll was hard-earned.

According to Ejidike, “now that the elections have come and gone, our eyes are now focused on the 2025 governorship election in Anambra State and all hands must be on deck.” 

Read Also: APC releases Tinubu, Shetima pre-inauguration photographs

He said: “Tinubu-Shettima victory is a victory for all Nigerians. Their resilience, commitment and will-power towards issues earned them and our party this victory, and as such, are worthy of emulation by every serious politician.

“We in Anambra are enjoined to be good students of the Asiwaju-Shettima School and it is our prayer and firm belief that they will deliver on this mandate, for the good of every Nigerian.”

“It is a public knowledge that most of those who have made and are still making heavy sacrifices for the party have not been adequately rewarded and appreciated. 

“Elections have come and gone; despite the not-too-good performance of the APC in Anambra State. 

“I call on all of us to willingly donate our skills, resources, time and talent to make a difference in the affairs of this party, for the greater interest of all.

“Our utmost desire is still for APC to fly its flag at the Government House, Awka after the 2025 governorship election and with that I will be fulfilled.” 

Nigerian Customs Services will enhance the capability of its personnel, to ensure effective service delivery, the Comptroller General, Col. Hameed Ali (rtd), has said.

He spoke yesterday at the inauguration of a conference hall and training centre of the Customs Area 2 Command, Onne Seaport in Rivers State.

Ali, represented by the Assistant Comptroller General Zone 6, 

Olagboyega Peters, said the facilities would serve as a rallying point for harvest of new ideas for the progress and growth of the command.

Zone 6 comprises 11 states of the Southsouth and Southeast. 

The hall can host 110 participants at a time, while the centre can accommodate 40 persons.

Ali hailed the project, saying the centre would serve as an intellectual hub and a place of cross fertilisation of ideas and socialisation.

“This conference centre represents a new chapter in the lives of this command, one that will bring together officers and people from all walks of life to dialogue, share ideas and connect.

“It will provide a platform for learning, network and contributing to the growth of the Service and building an enabling environment where people can come together to explore new ideas and find common ground that will enhance capacity of officers to perform their duties and accelerate in the impartation of technical skills, to prevent government duty inversion and suppress smuggling.

“Education is not only the acquisition of knowledge, but also about the best ways to impart knowledge,” he said.

Ali noted that the conference centre would shape the relationship, direction of the command and its host communities and the state at large, hoping that the projects would go beyond expectations.

He said: “It is our hope that these facilities will serve as a beckon of hope and innovation. One which will inspire its users to continue the important work of advancing knowledge, fostering understand and building a better service delivery to the society, taking into cognisance the vision of the Customs as a security and revenue generating agent of the Federal Government.” 

The Comptroller, Area 2, Baba Imam, advised stakeholders on the need to comply with the extant laws of the government, and promised to initiate other critical projects that would benefit and enhance businesses in the command.

“These facilities serve as a morale booster to officers so that they will continue to be more productive in trade facilitation and revenue generation activities through training and meetings that will enhance our performance and productivity. 

“The command pledges to continue to initiate similar projects and remain in the forefront in the execution of such projects, to ensure efficiency and efficacy in service delivery. 

“I will not relent to remind our stakeholders to continue complying with the government’s extant laws on import and export. 

“Furthermore, let me reiterate here that legitimate importers and exporters shall continue to have access to us at all times. We shall consistently adopt mechanism that will ensure the removal of bottlenecks associated with import and export. We are resolute and committed to trade facilitation as one of our cardinal mandates,” he said.

The facilities were initiated by the command and executed in partnership with stakeholders within the command areas.

The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), Abia state Chapter has elected its officials on Sunday 14th May 2023. The election which took place at Abia hotels, Aba Abia state had Dr. Ogbonna Onyedikachi emerged as  Chairperson of the chapter, alongside Dr. Iyke Onyeije as Vice Chairman,  Dr Paul Chukwudi, public Relations Officer. Others are, Dr. Chioma Atasie as  Tresurer, Dr. Ogechi Ebere, Secretary, and Dr. Ezimoh Emmanuel, Financial Secretary. The new Chairperson took over from Dr. Okechukwu Abagwu.

Meanwhile, Dr. Onyedikachi in her acceptance address, promised to improve on the performance of her precedessor  and build a strong association while expressing gratitude to Abia Chapter of NOA for finding her worthy to lead in the next two years.

“With joy in my heart, l wish to thank God Almighty for His Mercies and Faithfulness and for making today a reality. I also thank you all for finding me worthy to lead. 

“To all members of NOA Abia state who have entrusted me with such a huge responsibility, I promise not to disappoint you as I will go extra mile to deliver on my campaign promises.

Read Also: Group inaugurates regional chapter in Nigeria

“To my fellow  contestants,this is our win.A win for one is a win for all.I like the fact that we all have big dreams for NOA and together,we will work in seeing the optometry of our dream.I extend my hand of fellowship to you.Please,lets put aside our differences and work together for the growth of the Association.

She also stressed the need for harmonious working relations with  other elected officials: “I am so excited to work with you.This is a selfless service and i believe so strongly in your capabilities.Its an era of a new dawn in Optometry. We will work as a team to advance this profession. “

NOA,  is a prime umbrella association representing  over 4000 doctors of Optometry across the 36 States of Nigeria and Federal Capital Territory Abuja, as well as all other Optometric  interest  groups in Nigeria , including its  affiliation as member of the African council of Optometry (AFCO), world council of Optometry (WCO).

From Segun Showunmi, Ibadan

Over 8,000 students are set to graduate at Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic (AOPE), Eruwa as the institution is set for its maiden convocation.

The Acting Rector, Dr. Gbade Akinteye, said the convocation would cover graduating students from 2015/2016, 2016/207, 2017/2018, 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 sets, adding that outstanding graduating students would be given awards.

A statement by Akinteye said the governing council, management and workers were set to receive dignitaries at the convocation slated for Friday.

Read Also: FCET graduates 6,193 at 38th convocation

The statement said: “Activities have been lined up to mark the convocation. They include Jumaat Service held at the Central Mosque of the institution at 2pm last Friday, Sunday Service held yesterday at the institution’s Chapel and a news conference to be held today where select journalists in Oyo State will ask questions from the school management on the significance of the programme and how far the institution has gone, at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) headquarters, Ibadan, Oyo State.”

The management urged the graduating students to attend the event and wished them happy celebration.

In an apparent defiance to the order of a Federal High Court, former National Chairman, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Victor Oye, has reportedly convened a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Awka, the Anambra State capital.

A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court sitting in Bwari, Abuja, had ordered Oye to stop parading himself as APGA’s National Chairman .

The court also restrained him from holding any gatherings, meetings, congresses or convention in the name of APGA NEC or NWC, declaring such gatherings as null and void.

The order followed a Supreme Court ruling in March 24, that affirmed Chief Edozie Njoku as the authentic national chairman and deleted Oye from its earlier judgment where his (Oye’s) name was mentioned in error.

Read Also: Missing Enugu APGA Gov aspirant found dead

Justice Garba Lawal, reading the unanimous judgment, ordered that Oye’s name be expunged from the case with file number SC/CV/687/2021, in line with page 13 of Chief Njoku’s application, and be replaced with “Chief Edozie Njoku” as National Chairman of APGA.

The judgment put to rest the battle for the soul of APGA which had been running for four years.

However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in a statement on May 9, by the National Commissioner in charge of Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, still recognised Oye as National Chairman of APGA.

Emboldened by INEC’s backing, Oye, reportedly went ahead to hold the NEC meeting on Friday at a popular hotel although top party members were said to have boycotted the NEC in obedience to the court order.

Reacting to the development, a civil society movement, Save Democracy Group, threatened to occupy Abuja due to INEC’s refusal to obey the Supreme Court Judgment of March 24.

The group said INEC’s refusal to obey the Supreme Court judgment was a threat to the country’s democracy.

The group’s media director, Austin Igboeche, said:

“‘Considering what we went through as a nation to evolve into a democratic state, it is difficult to comprehend why Nigerians will allow INEC to plunge the country into an avoidable conflagration.

“What is Chief Victor Oye’s name still doing on INEC’s website when the Apex Court had ordered that it should be deleted?

“One thing INEC has struggled so hard to imprint in our minds is that the institution is infallible and above the law.

“This obnoxious narrative is designed to sustain the impunity for which the commission has gained notoriety. But, it is up to us as a people, either to allow or stop it. This is simply our mission.

“Clearly, INEC is up to some games. This matter is no longer about Chief Njoku or APGA; the architects in this tragic drama are simply passing a message, which if allowed to see the light of day may be a good bye to our cherished and valued democracy.”

Seaman’s Schnapps, an original prayer drink has celebrated with the paramount ruler of Ota, Aworiland, Ogun State, Oba Abdukabir Obalanlege on his fifth-year anniversary.

 The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries from various spheres of life.

Known for its steadfast support and preservation of cultural and traditional values, Seaman’s played an active role in ensuring the success of Oba’s fifth the 5th anniversary.

 Seaman’s maintained its ever-cordial relationship with the monarch by championing the cake cutting & prayer sessions that marked the high points of the occasion. Seaman’s also adorned the event venue and the entire Ota metropolis with captivating display, adding color and splendor to the anniversary.

 Gbemileke Lawal, Seaman’s Marketing Manager said: Oba  Obalanlege is well revered and respected for his tremendous and charismatic leadership of a vast community such as Ota Aworiland. His reign has brought so much progress to all and we are happy to felicitate with such a ruler and our host community.

He said: “Seaman’s Schnapps has consistently played a vital role in preserving our values, traditions, and cultural heritage, uplifting the spirits of the people and enabling blessings during celebrations of remarkable milestones. This explains why our bond with the monarch and royalty remains strong”.

Notable traditional rulers who graced the occasion as Royal Fathers of the Day were Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, who was ably represented,  Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the Akarigbo of Remoland, and  Oba Abdukabir Agbabiaka, the Osolo of Isolo Aworiland among others.

Read Also: Olota, Awori Obas endorse Tinubu, Abiodun, Adeola For 2023

Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps has firmly established itself as the market leader in the Nigerian Spirit Market, offering consumers a range of options to suit their various needs and occasions. Available in five sizes and formats, including the stylish transparent gift box adorned with royal bead designs, the unique conical-shaped bottle, and laminated sachets, Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps continues to be a symbol of excellence.

The brand’s commitment to promoting and preserving Nigerian cultural heritage and traditions is evident through its communications, which have focused on culture, tradition, prayer, and blessings. Seaman’s Aromatic Schnapps is prominently used for libations during cultural and traditional events, including festivals, chieftaincy titles, weddings, housewarmings, and gifting.