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States Should Be Encouraged To Sponsor Pilgrimage — NCPC Chairman

The Chairman of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev Yomi Kasali has said that states should be encouraged to sponsor Pilgrimage.
He disclosed this recently in Bethlehem during the ongoing Christian Pilgrimage in Israel and Jordan.

He explained that though some may argue that states should not be involved in Pilgrimage sponsorship, but he posited that the amount of resources being deployed in Pilgrimage is too insignificant considering the spiritual importance of Pilgrimage in national development.

Rev Kasali explained that Pilgrimage provides an opportunity for the less privileged Nigerians to enjoy the dividends of democracy especially those who treasure their faith.
He described the ongoing Christian Pilgrimage in Israel and Jordan as “wonderful, great and quiet refreshing”.
He advised pilgrims to use this Pilgrimage exercise to reflect on national issues.
He further admonished them to ensure they make Nigeria proud; and not to use Pilgrimage as an outlet to abscond.
The Chairman is the leader of the 8th batch of Christian pilgrims currently in Israel and Jordan, made up of Yobe and Borno pilgrims, including pilgrims who are on consular assignment.

Visit To Ned Nwoko Resort, Experience I’ll Live To Cherish – Emir Of Kano

By Patrick Ochei

The Emir of Kano, His Royal Majesty, Aminu Ado Bayero has said that his visit to Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko at the Mount Ned Resort, Idumuje-Ugboko was one he would live to cherish, as a centre of culture and civilization.

The Emir stated this while speaking to newsmen about his experience in Delta State, with a royal tour of Mount Ned tourism hub and Sports university, accompanied by the Dein of Agbor, HRM Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi 1.

According to Emir, “There is no difference between us as a people; from North to South. We are Nigerians who value relationships, greatness and togetherness of our nation.

“I must confess that the hospitality given to us by Prince Ned Nwoko was awesome and wonderful; and I will always remember this experience”, Ado Bayero recounted.

Reflecting on the Sports University Idumuje-Ugboko, which he earlier inspected from Nwoko’s Palatial Castle, the 15th Emir of Kano commended the philanthropist for his foresight and patriotism in establishing the first Sports University in Sub Saharan Africa.

The monarch noted that Nwoko had shown passion and commitment for education and advancement of sports in Nigeria, maintaining that such act of service would never be forgotten in history.

Also speaking, the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, HRM Keagborekuzi 1, said he accompanied the Emir of Kano to visit his brother and friend, Prince Ned Nwoko for cultural integration and promotion of national unity.

He affirmed that they discussed what is needed and best for Nigeria, counselling that it was important for Nigerians to see themselves as one people.

“Ned Nwoko is an enigmatic person who has the larger interest of Nigeria at heart. And of course, he will be our Senator come 2023. We need to be closer to him more than ever before, because he has the capacity and honesty to do well as a Senator. He is equally very close to the North, meaning that he is better positioned to be among those that would continue to champion Nigeria’s unity in diversity for peace and progress of the whole Nation.

“As traditional rulers and custodians of the land, we love Nigeria and because of that love, we shall continue to seek synergies and partnerships with those in secular leadership who will help to foster the relationships that are capable of bringing our nation together.

In his welcome remarks, Prince Nwoko appreciated the Emir of Kano for the royal visit.

Nwoko also eulogized the Dein of Agbor for standing by him always and assisting in making the right decisions as a proud son of Anioma.

He pledged never to let the traditional institution down in the collective quest to build a new Nigeria that would be beneficial to the present and future generations.

Assemblies Of God Church Elect New Leadership

Cleric Harps On Reality Of Rapture

In ensuring that men live godly lives, the guest speaker, Revd Dr. Paul Aji has stressed on the reality of rapture.

Aji  made this known during the first triennial council meeting and inauguration of Assemblies of God Church, Anioma West District  in Asaba, Delta State.

He advised them to be careful of the things they do as rapture would soon take place.

He encouraged Christians who are into politics not to indulge in evil act, while seeking power and positions.

The Cleric advised Nigerians to endeavour to get their Permanent Voters Cars so as to vote on the right leaders.

Speaking, the newly elected Superintendent of the District, Rev.Dr. Amb. Emmanuel Ehiwarior said with the directives of God he would shepherd the Church.

Ehiwarior, advised members to be ready to serve to God with all their hearts, so as to make heaven on the last day.

While praying for the newly elected leaders, the Chairman Electoral Committee, Rev Joseph Ojale Rtd,  advised the newly elected leaders to take up their responsibility with the fear of God and be true disciples of Jesus.

On his part, the Esu of Dutse Alhaji, His Royal Highness, James Shawo  commended the humility and dedication of Rev.Ehiwarior, adding that, it was what led to his elevation in the vineyard of God.

The Monarch advised him to continue to stand on the truth and also urged the followers to follow Him, with all honesty.

Amongst those who were elected into leadership positions were Assistant District Superintendent, Rev. Chuks Eluemunor; District Secretary, Rev. Emmanuel Ikekhua; District Treasurer, Rev. John Ikeogwu amongst others

Okowa Deplores Rising Insecurity In Nigeria

Governor of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has deplored the rising insecurity in Nigeria, saying the country was better secured in the past.

Okowa, who spoke at the funeral mass in honour of late Senator Patrick Osakwe at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ugiliamai, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of the State, said Nigeria was a better country when PDP held sway at the centre.

Recalling his political engagements with the late Osakwe, Okowa said he used to travel at nights to visit him and returned same night without anything to worry about as far as security was concerned.

He regretted that Nigerians were no longer safe to travel in the day time talkless of embarking on night travels.

“I remember in those days when I was the Director-General of his ( Senator Osakwe) campaign organisation, I use to leave Asaba at 1a.m. and arrive Ugiliamai at about 2a.m.

“I will finish discussions with him and leave again same night either back to Asaba or Boji-Boji Agbor. Those were the good old days when we could move around without fear,” he said.

The governor extolled the deceased for his outstanding accomplishments at the Senate and for his contributions to the growth and development of his Senatorial District and Delta in general.

He urged the family and followers of the late senator to trust in God and take solace in the fact that their patriarch lived a life of great accomplishments as an astute businessman and politician of repute.

“We have come here, though we mourn, but to celebrate not just a true son of Ugiliamai or Ndokwa nation but of Delta state and Nigeria.

“We know that our departed father and brother, Sen. Patrick Osakwe is a household name in our nation Nigeria.

“As a little boy, I heard about him because he truly worked very hard and he started from a humble beginning but rose in hardwork to the top.

“We are told of his exploits in business and his philanthropy to people. We know about the things he has done here and in Delta State.

“When he was to run for the office of the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, I was the Director-General of his Campaign.

“I was privileged to replace him in the Senate after he served his people very well for 12 years (1999-2011).

“He was a great politician and even ran election under another party and still won landslide.

“God knows why he has chosen to take him at this time that we all need him, especially, his immediate family. He was a father figure to a lot of people politically.

“Having done 12 years in active political service for the people of Delta North, he willingly stepped aside because he thought I should run for the Senate at that time.

“It takes a strong politician to run for elections and win three times. Senator Osakwe had very difficult and turbulent primaries but he still won landslide and that is the hallmark of great men.

“As friends of the late Senator, we know that he has played his role very well and it is time for us to truly thank God because he came and made positive impact on humanity.

“He lived his life not just for humanity but also to the glory of God,” Okowa stated.

Earlier in his homily, Rev’d Father Barnabas Esegine described the late Senator Osakwe as an enigma who didn’t live for himself but for others.

He urged Christians to live their life with eternity in view, adding that the late Senator Osakwe would be remembered for the lasting legacies he built for God and humanity.

The funeral service was attended by former Deputy Governor of the state, Chief Benjamin Elue, Senator James Manager, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Chief Ndudi Elumelu, Member House of Representatives, Hon. Ossai Ossai, State Chairman of the PDP, Chief Kingsley Esiso among other dignitaries.

Hendrix Assures His Constituency of Effective Representation

The candidate for Ndokwa West House of Assembly, under the Peoples Redemption Party, (PRP) Hon. Hendrix Onwuma has reassured the people of his constituency of effective representation.

Hon. Hendrix gave the assurance while speaking with Pressmen during the funeral of his father in-law, the Oliogo Umuseti of Utagba Uno, Late Chief Sunday Ossai Enweliku in Oleogo, Delta State

He said with him, serving his people at the state House of Assembly, he would ensure that they enjoy the dividend of democracy.

The HOA candidate said, he said he would ensure that there is food security, quality education, thorough supervision of the health care sector, provide conducive learning atmosphere for the students and their teachers.

He said he was ready to change the narrative of undermining children in the rural area because of their background and ensuring that they enjoy quality education by standing head tall when it comes to competing with children in the urban areas, academically.

He urged Deltans to vote for the Party with the symbol of a Key, adding that the key was the gateway to freedom and redemption of the people of Ndokwa West.

High Chief Emonena Victor Wayles Egukawhore (JP) Honors Mother

By Victor Bieni, Patani

The Chairman, DE WAYLES  GROUP OF COMPANIES, High Chief Emonena Victor Wayles Egukawhore (JP) has described his mother, Late Deaconess (Mrs) Magdalene Zipuamere Egukawhore (Nee Okoro) who passed on some years ago as a devout Christian and dedicated mother whose live and service to humanity has left a lasting and indelible footprint.

High Chief Emonena made this known during the Thanksgiving Service to mark the third year memorial Service of his departed mother at St. Matthew Anglican Church, Patani, Delta State.

He said, his mother was a loving, dedicated, a humanitarian,  a great example to womanhood and a great personality whose life affected in no small measure, her children, communities and the society at large”.

He noted that the next memorial service of his beloved mother would be a replica of the practical exhibition of God’s call for human capital development, a norm he said would continue.

While commending the Church and Clergymen for their support, he also thanked the state governor, Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, ably represented by his SSG, Chief Patrick Ukah, the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Duoye Diri represented by the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, Commissioners, Executive Council members and other top government functionaries, dignitaries across the Niger-Delta and Nigeria in general,  for their  attendance as he promised to key into the call  for human capital development and support for the less-privileged citizens.

Speaking at the Thanksgiving Service, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Western Izon, Rt. Reverend Victor Ebipade Okporu, extolled the qualities of his departed mother whom he described as an exceptionally virtuous woman who had left good legacy and impacted positively on the lives of all those who came in contact with her during her lifetime.

Cathedral Supervisor, Ven. Simeon Ariye, in his sermon, “The Greatest Gifts”, admonished Christians to have good minds, the qualities of a child; express the good image of God; humble themselves like children and reconcile with everyone that has offended them, so as to make themselves acceptable to God.

While drawing more illustrations from some biblical quotations, from the book of first Samuel Chapter 18, and Mark nine verse 41.

The Cleric also stressed  the need for Christians to make human capital development very imperative in their lifestyle, by supporting the less-privileged citizens, Christians and the work of God for societal development, growth and development of humanity.

Protection Of Critical National Assets, Infrastructure Not Negotiable Says Delta NSCDC Boss

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has declared that the protection of the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure was not sacrosanct and negotiable.

The State Commandant of the Corps, Akinsanya Iskilu Abiodun made these statements through the Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, DSC Emeka Peters Okwechime while briefing news men at the State Headquarters of the NSCDC in Asaba the Delta State Capital.

Dsc Emeka Peters maintained that the Command in its renewed efforts to ensuring a crime free society and the dire need to beef up security in all Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, the State Commandant have ordered the massive deployment of officers to provide adequate security and protection of all Public Centers and all critical assets and infrastructure across the state.

The statement  also directed all Area Commander’s, various Head of Department and Units, the 25 Divisional Officers to supervise and monitor the deployed officers. Similarly, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr Abubakar Audi Ahmed PhD (mni), through a memo from the National Headquarters of the NSCDC ordered the immediate deployment of NSCDC personnel to schools in ensuring the safe school initiative of the Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

On the issue of monies lost by the federal government through stolen crude, the NSCDC spokesman said, that the crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism would have worsen or taken a different dimension other than what it is today if not for the emergence and the gallant fight of the NSCDC as a Messiah in   tackling the issues of crude theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta Region.

Recently, the Command arrested over 192 suspects, 52 tankers, 11 articulated trucks, Toyota Sequoia Jeeps, Sienna bus, Mini buses ,Saloon Cars and 50mm diameters hose, all used in the illegally dealing in petroleum product, crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

Beside the huge success recorded by the Command, the PRO used the opportunity to call on the Judiciary to attend all  NSCDC cases promptly in order to speed up the trials and prosecutions of crude oil thieves suspects brought before the court.

He added that if the suspects were being sentence to jail regularly and timely, it would serve as deterrent to others not to take to crime. 

Dsc Emeka Peters also disclosed that the NSCDC would perform excellently well if the corps is well equiped and necessary logistics adequately provided in order to be able to crush these Vandals carrying sophisticated weapons.

On the 2023 general election, the NSCDC image maker said, that the state Commandant has called on all politicians in the state and all political stakeholders to eschew political bitterness, hate speech, campaign of calumny which is culpable of breaching the peace. 

The NSCDC Boss through the Command Public Relations Officer, DSC Emeka Peters said that politicians should rather discuss their plans, programmes and strategies to better the lot of the state and her citizens. He enjoined all political class to engage themselves on issue base campaign rather than taking to cheap blackmail, lies and propaganda which will not help the system.

Asiuwhu Calls For More Synergy With Staff

Commissioner, Delta State Ministry of Environment, Chief Godspower Asiuwhu has restated the need for more collaboration with staff of the Ministry.

Asiuwhu made this known while interacting with the staff in Asaba, the state capital.

He said working in unity would enable them achieve the goals and bring to fulfilment the stronger Delta vision of the state governor.

He said that he has held meetings with TAUNGYA Farmers and some Oil Companies which has enabled him know their environmental challenges.


He added that the oil companies were ready to train staff of the Ministry only if the ministry can put up a strong proposal.

He said no staff should use his office letter headed paper to sign any letter or document with his name with out his knowledge, that every document should pass through the right process through the Director to the Permanent Secretary and then his office.


He also acknowledged the Permanent Secretary efforts in handling the affairs of the Ministry.

In the same vein, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mrs Minnie Oseji, said with the short period the Commissioner had to spend in the Ministry, it was paramount for them to move as a team and with a sense of urgency, to help ensure that he helps the gove0rnor succeed on his mantra.

She urged the staff to step up their activities, adding that they should strive to achieve their responsibilities in the Ministry.

Highlighting on the issues of priority in the Ministry, the PS said a memo for the commissioning of Nigerian Watershed Management Project, (NEWMAP)  had been sent to the state governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa; she also said that there was need for town hall meeting with the 12 Local Government Areas affected by flood during the 2012 flooding, so as to sensitize those living in flood prone areas to move to place of safety.

She also advised people to stop dumping waste that would lead to the  blockage of water ways.

According to her, there were plans to hand over and test run the integrated waste management facility for three months.

The Permanent Secretary admonished the department of Sanitation and waste management to ensure the facility was functional and had no poor management, by coming up with blueprint on operational plan.

She also called for vegetation control of the many weeds on the highways, adding that there was need to intensify the effort of the sanitation department to check mate Warri, Ughelli, Sapele and Agbor environs on monthly basis.

Oseji disclosed that there were plans, to build curvet in flood prone areas and monitor projects approved for execution.

In promoting service delivery and enabling environment on the part of the staff, sanctions would be on those who default the civil service rules and to those who comply, prizes would be given to them as they would be nominated as the 2021 and 2022 best staff.

She added that in motivating long serving staff, they would be appreciated by the Ministry.

NCPC Boss Bags Award Of Excellence As Peace Ambassador

By Godiya Mathew


The Executive Secretary of Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev. Dr Yakubu Pam has bagged an award of Excellence by the National Association of Northern Nigerian Students (NANNS).

The award was presented to him in his office at the NCPC corporate headquarters in Abuja, on 9th August, 2022.

The NCPC Boss in his address appreciated the Association for considering him worthy of the award.

According to him, ‘he is elated to see youths who are focused, purposeful and articulated come together for a better course’.

He explained that most problems of our country is the youths who have made themselves agents of negative tendencies. As such, he urged the association to fully utilize the platform to organize programmes for youths that bring hope to them and the country at large.

Rev. Pam challenged the youths to go on research in order to develop themselves, in his words,” the greatest knowledge you will have is not the one you learn in the classroom, but the one you discover by yourself”.

He encouraged them to always do the right thing always and don’t be discouraged when their voices are not heard, that surely they will be remembered one day”.


Earlier, the leader of the delegation of the National Association of Northern Nigerian Students, Comrade Usman El-Yakub said they were in the Commission to identify with the Executive Secretary and also to present an award of Excellence to him, following his records of good leadership and humanitarian services.

Comrade El-Yakub explained that the association is a non-governmental body formed by students in the North, with the aim of orienting students to disengage in negative practices like Drug Abuse and Cultism.

He further explained that they organize lectures, skill acquisition programmes, as well as partner with security agencies in order to give their contributions to the society.


The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Award of Excellence to the Executive Secretary as a token of encouragement and appreciation from the student community for his kind gesture to the community.

Delta Clan Passes Vote Of Confident On Okowa, PDP, Obielum

…Hails Gov for availing them of a Commissioner , House of Assembly candidate
 
The people of Akarai clan in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta has passed a vote of confidence on the state governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, leadership of the state People Democratic Party, PDP, and Chief Godswin Obielum for their purposeful leadership in the state and the Local Government Area respectively.
 
The clan, comprising of seven communities, made the declaration at the end of the PDP ward 11 meeting held in the town hall, while welcome back one of their illustrious sons, Hon. Odiwe Uche Mandela and many others back into the Party.

Our source further hinted that the essence of the meeting was also to appraise a huge political scorecard that has seen two of their own, Hon. Mrs. Nkechi Enumah-Chukura and Hon. Osamuta, emerging as a Commissioner for Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Development, and candidate for the state House of Assembly, respectively.
 
Speaking, the Councilor representing Ward 11, Hon. Victor Ezah, said, “Akarai Clan in Ndokwa East Local Government Area wish to express our gratitude for making our daughter,  Hon. Mrs. Nkechi Enumah-Chukura  as Commissioner for Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Development.
 
“We are also grateful to the party and the good people of Ndokwa East Local Government Area for electing our son, Hon. Emeka Osamuta that has emerged as a candidate for the state House of Assembly. We have never had it this good. As a matter of fact, this is the first time such positions have been extended to the Akarai Clan and we will never take this for granted”, he added.
 
The Council Legislator further said, “This is the first time we are witnessing such gestures from the party. Though we have been very loyal, we have worked hard for the Party and we are happy that our patience has finally paid off in enjoying these dividends.
 
“We are indeed appreciative of this kind gesture by the governor, the Party and we are also not forgetting the leader of Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Chief Godswin Obielum, for his roles in all these, especially in the emergence of our son as a candidate for the state House of Assembly.
 
“We are therefore passing a vote of confidence on the governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, leadership of the state PDP and the local government area respectively. We are  also pledging our unalloyed loyalty, and assuring that this has encouraged us further to do our best, in ensuring that the PDP comes top as always in our clan, ward 5 in particular and Ndokwa East in general”, he intoned.
 
The vote of confidence was moved by a former councilor, Hon. Lucky Ejeke and seconded by the returnee, Hon Odiwe. Notable among those present were all former Councillors, the ward’s present and past exco members, as well as present and former women and community youth leaders that included the Ward’s Party Chairman, Hon. Charles Oliwe, Mr. Efi Innocent, Ambrose Able, Vincent Oriro, Benson Emiri and Godspower Efeuna among others

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