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Senator Nwoko Represents Senate At 9th National Youth Games

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Hill Nigeria
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Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, represented the Senate at the official opening of the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

The Games were formally declared open on Friday, August 29, 2025, and will run through September 6, 2025, ushering in an intense contest for medals among Nigeria’s finest young athletes.

This year’s edition has recorded unprecedented participation, with 4,961 athletes, 635 coaches, 386 team officials, and 400 state delegates in attendance. These figures highlight the growing scale and national importance of the Games as a platform for youth empowerment, talent discovery, and sporting excellence.

Defending champions, Team Delta, will seek to retain their crown on home soil. However, they face tough competition from several other states determined to make their mark and stake a claim for national recognition.

According to the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Games go beyond competition:

“They represent a celebration of talent, determination, and national unity. The National Youth Games continue to serve as a breeding ground for future champions and a symbol of hope for Nigerian sports.”

Senator Nwoko’s presence at the Games reflects his deep passion for sports and youth development. Beyond his legislative role, the Senator has made history as the first Nigerian to establish a Sports University, the Sports University of Nigeria, located in Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State. The institution, the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, is dedicated to combining academics with professional sports training, nurturing well-rounded graduates who can excel in both education and athletics.

Speaking at the ceremony, Senator Nwoko reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to grassroots sports development while also emphasizing his personal drive to use sports as a tool for national progress:

“The National Youth Games is not just about winning medals, it is about inspiring a new generation of athletes, fostering unity, and unlocking the limitless potential of our youths. As a nation, we must continue to invest in sports as a tool for national growth, social cohesion, and international recognition. For me, sports is more than a passion, it is a mission to empower and transform lives.”

The 9th National Youth Games promises thrilling performances, new discoveries, and the reinforcement of Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to nurturing sporting talents for future success.

Substance Abuse: Delta Govt Emphasizes Good Parenting, Music Censorship

By
Hill Nigeria
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In a bid to stem the rising tide of substance abuse and its attendant social vices, the Delta State government has launched a comprehensive initiative to ensure a “Drug-Free Delta.”

The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, told Arise News on Saturday that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is committed to tackling the menace head-on.

According to Dr. Oghenesivbe, the governor has been working tirelessly to ensure that Delta State is free from illicit drug trade through collaborative efforts with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security agencies.

“We are getting ready for the second phase of our Drug-Free Delta sensitization campaigns, which will cover 58 secondary schools and tertiary institutions across the three senatorial districts,” he said.

The state government is also constructing rehabilitation centers in Kwale and Agbor, where victims of substance abuse will receive counseling, skills training, and support.

“The Kwale and Agbor rehabilitation and counseling centers will soon be operational. Plans are in top gear for the completion of the two centers for both male and female victims of substance abuse,” Dr Oghenesivbe revealed.

In addition to these initiatives, Delta State government is considering introducing mandatory drug testing for students seeking admission into tertiary institutions in the state. This move is aimed at discouraging youths from indulging in illicit drugs and substance abuse.

Dr. Oghenesivbe emphasized the importance of good parenting in preventing substance abuse, urging parents to monitor their children’s peer groups and avoid over-pampering. He also appealed to government agencies responsible for music censorship to ensure that lyrics and contents are free from negative messages that promote substance abuse.

The Delta State government has also garnered support from traditional rulers, with some royal fathers inaugurating sensitization campaign committees in their domains. The government is encouraging other royal fathers, local government council chairmen and faith-based organisations to emulate this example and collaborate with the state government in the area of sensitization campaigns.

The ultimate goal, Dr. Oghenesivbe said, is to achieve zero tolerance for substance abuse in Delta State. “We are committed to rehabilitating and reintegrating victims of substance abuse into society, providing them with necessary skills and support,” he said.

With these initiatives, Delta State is poised to become a model for other states in the country in the fight against substance abuse.

Nigeria Optimistic Of 2026 World Cup Qualification – DG NSC

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Hill Nigeria
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…Says sports administrators solidly United, no friction

By; Jacob Onjewu Dickson

Nigeria is still determined and optimistic of clinching a ticket for 2026 World Cup billed for Canada, in spite of present standing on group table.

The assurance was given by the Director-General, National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade at a press conference, after the opening ceremony of the 9th National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba on Friday night.

“We all are determined and desirous of taking Nigeria to the World Cup.

“At this stage, we expect our friends and brothers in the media will come on top of the table, all hands on the table, support us, work with us so that we beat Rwanda, we beat South Africa, we beat Lesotho,” he said.

” We will come back,” he assured.

Speaking further, he said that Nigerians live in the most beautiful country inhabited by the most resolute people.

“Perseverance is our middle name and i know that as God lives, I am sure Eric Chelle will lead us to the World Cup Insha Allah,” he declared.

Commenting on a news report from an online medium, which suggested a rift between the Chairman NAC, Malam Shehu Dikko and himself, the DG described it as baseless.

“It is not only ludicrous, it is shameful for such a journalist to write something so stupid and narrow-minded.

“I have officially reported to the President of SWAN, but I believe it is important I clear the air here.

“There are no issues,” he clarified.

He said, ” Shehu Dikko and I have our eyes on the ball. We are concentrating on innovating.

“We are working hard to bring a system that is production-oriented and not consumption-oriented.”

He added, “Again, a story that we will never forget. It was stupidly written.

“There are no issues between Gusau, Sanusi, Shehu Dikko and I. We are a family. We are all focus-driven.

“We are a team alongside the NIS director, which is also under the sports commission we are a family any attempt to try to divide us will be met by prayers from God to go after those people so I want us to put a stop.

“We are also in good terms with all other presidents at the federations. We will work very hard to have a seamless federation elections. We just appointed today an electoral body led by an astute personality, who we believe will run an amazing election for the country to be proud of.

“We have done two elections so far that were ranked highly. This is time for us to celebrate peace in sports, this is not the time for us to issue bad blood, lies discretion unnecessarily insults from outside to you or from you to us.

“This is the time for us to work as a family, God bless SWAN, God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he prayedHe informed that in view of this Nigeria has officially indicated interest and sent in bid for hosting of the 2031 Commonwealth Games.

“Right now, we are focused on how we win the next two matches of the World Cup qualifiers,” he stressed.

Beyond The Politics Of Big Men: A Call For The Politics Of Big Ideas

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Amb. Aliyu Bin Abbas

It is becoming increasingly evident that our political elites, irrespective of their parties or affiliations, have abandoned the noble essence of politics. Instead of being guided by vision, ideas, and developmental agendas, they have reduced governance to the politics of personalities and patronage. Today, our political space is dominated by endless conversations about who becomes what, rather than what becomes of Nigeria.

This tragic departure from the politics of big ideas to the politics of big men has left our nation trapped in cycles of poverty, corruption, and stagnation. For twenty-five years, Nigerians have faithfully upheld democracy, believing in its promise of growth, unity, and prosperity. Yet, instead of meaningful development, what we have experienced is deepening insecurity, hunger, unemployment, disunity, institutional decay, and the dangerous rise of ethnic and religious bigotry.

But we must not give in to despair. The year 2027 presents another historic opportunity for Nigerians to chart a new course. It is not merely an election year—it is a defining moment. A moment to decide whether we will continue down the road of recycled leadership, empty promises, and endless crises, or whether we will rise together to demand a new generation of leaders—leaders who are credible, transparent, visionary, and just.

Nigeria needs leaders who will return us to the politics of big ideas:
• Leaders who will confront insecurity with courage and innovation.
• Leaders who will prioritize job creation, education, and economic growth.
• Leaders who will heal our divisions and build bridges across ethnic and religious lines.
• Leaders who will strengthen our institutions, fight corruption, and restore trust between the government and the people.

2027 must not be about who sits in power—it must be about how power is used. It must be about transforming Nigeria from a land of unfulfilled potential into a nation where justice, equity, and opportunity are realities for all.

The destiny of Nigeria lies not in the hands of a few political elites, but in the hands of her people. If we, the citizens, unite around vision, integrity, and competence, then no force can stop us from reclaiming our country.

Nigeria’s time is now. 2027 is not just another election—it is a chance to reset our nation’s destiny.

Delta APC Kicks Off Unity Cup In Warri

By
Hill Nigeria
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The opening ceremony of the Delta State APC unity cup will take place today.

The event is scheduled to take place at the Nigeria Navy Base in Warri.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the  Unity Cup Tournament, Comr. Mike Omasibro,  the Secretary, Mr Clifford Iburho, the football match which is between Warri South and Warri South West players is aimed at fostering unity amongst all party faithful of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state.

Iburho said that the sport event will help bring an end to every bickering in the state.

He added that it will also correct the misconception of the political stand of the state APC.

He revealed that the Senior Political Adviser to the governor, Sen.Emmanuel Aguariavwodo would be the Chairman of the event.

The Secretary said the state Party Chairman, Chief Omeni Sobotie and the Chief Adviser to the governor, Chief Ighoyota Amori would be the father of the day while the Commissioner for Women Affair, Princess Pat Ajudua former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Queen Betty Efekodha

 

Delta @34: DOPF Congratulates Governor Oborevwori, Deltans, Call On Governor To Sign Security Bill Into Law

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has congratulated His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and the good people of Delta State on the occasion of the state’s 34th anniversary.

In a press release signed by the Publicity Secretary of the Forum, Ehvwubare Oghenekparobo, FIMC, ANIPR, it stated that the state, created on August 27, 1991, by former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, has, over the years, evolved into a hub of rich cultural diversity, remarkable growth, and progressive governance that has brought government closer to the people through people-oriented policies and programmes.

While acknowledging the many achievements recorded in the last three decades, DOPF noted that the state has also faced developmental challenges, particularly in the areas of industrial expansion and security. These, the Forum stressed, remain critical issues that must be tackled with renewed focus if Delta is to maximize its economic and social potential.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Ehvwubare Oghenekparobo FIMC, ANIPR, the Forum commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his pragmatic leadership and the visible impact of his M.O.R.E Agenda, which has already reflected in higher standards of project execution, especially in road infrastructure across the state. According to DOPF, these strides represent deliberate steps to entrench good governance and accelerate development.

However, the Forum urged the Governor to seize the moment of this 34th anniversary to assent to the recently passed Community Security Bill by the Delta State House of Assembly and put in place effective structures for its implementation. DOPF believes that the Bill, once operationalized, would provide a solid institutional framework to complement existing measures in addressing insecurity—one of the major challenges confronting communities and businesses in the state.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we commend the contributions of past leaders and all arms of government to the progress of Delta State since creation,” the Forum stated. “We equally salute the resilience and determination of Deltans, whose collective drive continues to shape the state’s forward march.”

The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government initiatives through constructive reportage, balanced analysis, and developmental journalism in the overall interest of building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Delta State .

 

 

Decentralizing Military Training: The Case for Senator Ned Nwoko’s Kwale NDA Bill

By
Hill Nigeria
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The recent inauguration of the second military training depot in Osogbo, Osun State, by the Federal Government marks a historic milestone. For over a century, since 1914, Zaria in Kaduna had remained the sole centre for military training in Nigeria. Now, for the first time, the training of our armed forces has been decentralized, signaling that the era of concentration in a single region is gradually giving way to a fairer distribution of national assets.

This development affirms that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is inching closer to true decentralization of power and national institutions. If this bold step is possible in the South-West, it is equally possible and indeed necessary in the South-South. And that is precisely the vision behind Senator Ned Nwoko’s bill for a Nigeria Defence Academy in Kwale, Delta State.

Senator Ned Nwoko has long argued that Nigeria, with a population of over 200 million and facing unprecedented security challenges, cannot continue to rely on a single Defence Academy in Kaduna. His bill, read for the first time in March 2024, is not merely about adding another campus, it is about reimagining the future of Nigeria’s security preparedness. He has made a compelling case that the establishment of the NDA in Kwale would double, if not triple, the number of cadets trained annually, thereby closing the glaring gap in the number of personnel available to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and other threats that have overwhelmed our security forces.

Equity and justice also form the core of his argument. Senator Ned Nwoko has rightly pointed out that it is inequitable and impractical for a country as vast and diverse as Nigeria to centralize such a critical institution in one part of the country. Just as the Nigeria Law School expanded beyond Lagos to accommodate the growing number of law graduates, the Defence Academy must expand to serve the needs of all Nigerians. Establishing one in Kwale not only ensures balance but also strengthens the spirit of national unity.

In the end, Senator Ned Nwoko’s proposal goes far beyond regional benefit, it is a national security imperative. If the Federal Government can decentralize military training depots by opening one in Osun after over a century, then there is no justifiable reason why the Nigeria Defence Academy should remain confined to Kaduna. The Kwale NDA Bill is a visionary step towards a stronger, safer, and more equitable Nigeria. Passing it into law will not only transform our military training but also prove that true decentralization is possible in every facet of governance when the political will is there.

Senator Ned Nwoko Celebrates Delta @34, Commends Governor Sheriff’s M.O.R.E Agenda

By
Hill Nigeria
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As Delta State marked its 34th anniversary, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko joined millions of Deltans in celebrating the journey of a state that has become a beacon of resilience, diversity, and progress in Nigeria’s federation.

The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District described the anniversary as not only a moment of celebration but also of sober reflection on how far the state has come since its creation in 1991.

According to him, “34 years of Delta State is 34 years of collective struggle, triumphs, and aspirations. We have seen the state evolve through different phases, and today we celebrate not only our history but also the promise of our future.”

The lawmaker, who also serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, seized the opportunity to commend the current governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his steady leadership and vision encapsulated in the M.O.R.E Agenda.

He noted that the agenda has the potential to drive inclusive development if executed equitably across the three senatorial districts of the state. “Governor Sheriff has come at a time when Delta needs deliberate focus on people-oriented policies. His M.O.R.E agenda speaks to the aspirations of our people, and I am optimistic that its dividends will reach every corner of the state,” Nwoko remarked.

Senator Ned Nwoko, who served as a member of the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003, representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, recalled the early days of Delta State when infrastructural challenges were enormous, but the resilience of the people remained unbroken. He observed that the present moment calls for renewed collaboration between the state government, federal legislators, and local stakeholders to address issues of infrastructure, security, education, and social welfare.

While celebrating the state’s strides in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and human capital development, the senator noted that more still needs to be done to uplift rural communities. He urged the state government to pay attention to the grassroots, where the effects of government presence are most felt. “The soul of Delta lies not only in Asaba or Warri, but also in our villages, riverine communities, and agrarian settlements. It is there that the people most eagerly await the dividends of democracy,” he stressed.

The Anioma-born lawmaker also stressed the importance of youth and women empowerment in sustaining the legacy of Delta. He said the future of the state lies in the hands of its younger population and urged government at all levels to create enabling opportunities for them to thrive.

Senator Ned Nwoko further called on leaders, citizens, and stakeholders to rally behind Governor Oborevwori’s administration, stressing that governance is a collective responsibility. The Delta North lawmaker wishes all Deltans a joyous 34th anniversary, assuring them of his continuous efforts at the national level to ensure that the voice of the state remains strong and respected.

DELTA @ 34: Mulade Tasks Oborevwori On Riverine Development, Kicks Against Lavish Celebration

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Emulate former Gov James Onanefe Ibori

As Delta State is set to mark its 34th anniversary, a renowned peace and environmental rights advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff PhD has tasked Governor Sherifff Oborevwori-led government to give special focus to the infrastructural deficit in riverine communities in the State which he alleged, have been totally “deprived and neglected” inspite of the huge revenue acruals through the petroleum sector and the blue economy.

Mulade made the call while offering his congratulations to Governor Oborevwori and Deltans ahead of the remarkable occasion of the State’s 34th anniversary on August 27, 2025.

In the congratulatory message, Mulade felicitates with governor Oborevwori on the giant strides his administration is making in the State and also applauded Deltans for the relative peace, unity as well as the progress that has been achieved since its creation in 1991.

He said, “Permit me to specially felicitate with Your Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State on this momentous occasion of Delta State at 34, and the giant strides of your governance of our dear Delta State.

“It is exactly 34 years today that Delta State was created, and I celebrate not just our 34th Anniversary and togetherness as a people, but the relative peace, unity and progress we have witnessed and enjoyed in the past 34 years. We celebrate our founding fathers and the grace of God that has kept us together as one indivisible state, in spite of our cultural, linguistic, and environmental diversity,” he noted.

However, the Ibe-Serimowei of ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom lamented the deliberate neglect and marginalisation of the riverine population through infrastructural deficit, and appealed to governor Oborevwori to follow in the steps of its former predecessor, governor James Onanefe Ibori, to change the narrative by embarking on major roads and bridges so as to write his name in gold.

“It is quite unfortunate that the riverine communities mainly dominated by the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities are totally deprived and neglected in spite of their huge resource contribution through oil and gas as well as blue economy which is the main stay of the State’s economy,” Mulade lamented.

Continuing, he added, “I therefore urge Gov Sheriff Oborevwori to emulate His Excellency, Chief James Onanafe Ibori, who is the only governor that gave sense of belonging to the Ijaws and Itsekiri’s by constructing the Bomadi and Omadino bridges that linked the hinterland to the upland at the peak of the Niger Delta crisis with dwindling economy.

“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori should commence the construction of Ayakoromo bridge and Omadino road connecting Okerenkoko, Pepe-ama, Ekpemu, Akpata, Ogidadinor, Edeuba and Kokodiagbene communities in Burutu and Warri South-West LGA’s respectively in Delta State to write and print his name in the heart of Deltans, particularly the Ijaws and Itsekiris.

“Speaking further, just as the governor did in education in the upland, he should convert the former Delta State School of Marine Technology in Burutu which was politically upgraded to a moribound polytechnic in 2023, to a university or campus of the Delta State University, Abraka, Southern Delta University, Ozoro, or the Delta State University of Education, Agbor with a special focus on maritime to harness the blue economy, because state polytechnics are no longer a standard basis of education in the country,” he asserted

Mulade also advise the governor not to be tempted to lavish the State’s resources on unnecessary jamboree in the name of the 34th anniversary of the State’s creation, but to instead, channel such funds into flagging-off meaningful projects towards industrialisation of the State that will create employment opportunities for our teeming youths.

“I wish to strongly advise Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to change the narrative of celebrating the state creation with taxpayers’ money in political funfair, which is a waste of resources, but His Excellency should rather use Delta State at 34 to flag-off construction of economically viable projects such as the Ayakoromo bridge and the Omadino-Okerenkoko-Kokodiagbene road, among others alongside the recent approved flyovers at Agbor and Ughelli.

“In this respect, i wish to place on a particular note, that the effort of your Excellency on the towering human capital and infrastructural revolution in some parts of the State, is evidential. However, the riverine communities need to experience significant and economically valuable infrastructural projects that will be commemorate with her revenue contributions.

In his commendation to Deltans, he said, “Let me cease this medium to salute Deltans, past and present leaders for their commitment to statehood, the development strides, and the strengthening of our democracy. And to Deltans, we appreciate your spirit of resilience and commitment to building a state of our dream and sustaining the vision of our founding fathers,” he added.

PBAT Brazil Visit Continues As SMEDAN Formalize Partnership With ApexBrasil, SEBRAE

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in accordance with the renewed hope mantra and fostering continuous socio-economic growth has officially visited Brazil intensify international cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil.

President Tinubu Flanked by the DG/CEO SMEDAN Mr Charles Odii amongst other government functionaries noted that, “The engagement produced a raft of important agreements to deepen cooperation between our two nations.”

Odii in his words stated that “I had the privilege of joining Mr. President, H.E. @officialasiwajubat, on his official visit to Brazil, where he was warmly hosted by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva”

Odii expressed that “For us at @smedangov, it was particularly significant as we signed a partnership agreement with ApexBrasil and SEBRAE, two of Brazil’s leading institutions for trade promotion and SME development.”

The eloquent DG hinted that “this collaboration will open new doors for Nigerian small businesses, strengthen our technical capacity, and provide opportunities for knowledge exchange that will benefit entrepreneurs back home.”

He added that “Under the leadership of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has consistently recognized SMEs as the true backbone of our economy, SMEDAN is committed to ensuring that Nigerian entrepreneurs are positioned to compete, scale, and thrive globally.”

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