Home Blog Page 17

Iwegbu Awards Scholarship, Financial Support To Akwukwu Igbo Pupils, Students

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…As Gbandi Calls For Prioritisation Of Policies In Favour Of Children, Youths

Barr. Gift Iwegbu, has given scholarship to some persons and financial support to the participating school present at the 2025 Children’s Day Celebration in Akwukwu Igbo organized by the Akwukwu-Igbo Student Association (ASA), in Oshimili North Local government.

Barr. Iwegbu was ably represented by her husband, Chief Ikechukwu Iwegbu a notable community Chieftain and Executive Assistant to the Governor on Community Development.

Chief Iwegbu lauded the Akwukwu-Igbo Students Association for their bravery in nurturing the prospects of young minds, while appreciating the teachers and organizers for their tireless efforts.

In a gesture of goodwill, Barr. Gift Iwegbu, through her husband, extended providing a much-needed boost to the students and teachers alike.

This act of kindness has left a lasting impression on the community and the students are eagerly looking forward to more support in the future hence, he announced interest to aid support for the Independence day celebration for the Children.

 

On his part, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth Gbandi has urged parents, leaders and government representatives to prioritize policies and programs that benefit children and youths.

Gbandi pleaded for collaboration between community leaders and diaspora professionals to drive innovation and opportunity in Akwukwu-Igbo.

He charged stakeholders in the society to strive towards creating a thriving environment of love and peace for the children.

Gbandi said there was need for them to help support the children as they were the future leaders, innovators and nation-builders.

According to him, the Children’s Day offers a moment for Akwukwu Igbo to reflect on their responsibility and potentials to protect, nurture, and educate the younger generation.

While commending the organizers for taking initiative in community engagement and youth development, he encourages them to continue to organize programmes that promote education, civic values, and cultural identity among young people in Akwukwu Igbo.

In his remark, the Father of the Day, Chief Newton Jibunoh advised the children to aim towards a bright future and not be distracted by societal factors.

Speaking the Mother of the Day, Her Royal Majesty, Anthonia Obi Azuka said it was a thing of joy celebrating the future leaders, she advised the children the take their education serious so as to make it in life and appreciated the organizers for remembering their community.

On his part, the President of the Association, Mr Stanley Ogbolu enjoined the children to hold on to their dream as the future was bright, hence the need for them to stay focused in their education and be of good morals.

Ogbolu urged stakeholders to support to growth of the community as the investment they make in the children today will strengthen their future.

In his address, the Chairman of the planning committee, Amb. Patrick Ikebuwa said the competition was aimed at fostering healthy competition, promoting academic excellence and showcasing the talents of students from various schools in Akwukwu-Igbo.

Ikebuwa said “events like these play a significant role in shaping the minds of future leaders and promoting community development”.

He added that the competition will not only test the academic prowess of the students but also promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and camaraderie.

Highlight of the event was a resounding thanks to the generous support of Barr. Gift Iwegbu, a talk on the importance of education in contemporary society by Chief Ben Okonta; spelling bee competition, debates amongst others.

Present at the ceremony were staff, pupils and students from various schools in Oshimili North Local Government.

Delta Online Publishers Forum Condemns Use Of Force On Peaceful Protesters In Abraka

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has strongly condemned the use of brute force and excessive violence by members of the Nigerian Army to suppress peaceful protests in Abraka, Delta State.

This was disclosed in a press statement issued and signed by the Chairman of the Forum, Emmanuel Enebeli Mnipr and the Secretary, Shedrack Onitsha Mnipr.

It stated that the protests were organized by students, residents, and indigenes of the university town to draw attention to the alarming rise in insecurity and rampant cases of kidnapping, which have become a daily occurrence in the area.

Instead of responding with empathy and solutions to the deteriorating security situation, the Delta State Government chose to deploy military personnel to quell the protest.

Videos circulating online clearly show men in military uniforms opening fire on unarmed civilians. Tragically, among the protesters were the Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Comrade Onos Austin, the Vice President of NANS, Comrade Tennyo, and the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, Comrade Okoh Ezekiel. Their presence highlights the broad concern over the worsening safety conditions.

“It is deeply troubling that the same military force which the state and federal governments have failed to deploy against criminal elements behind the kidnappings and violence was quickly mobilized to suppress peaceful protesters. This reflects a disturbing trend in which citizen rights are being undermined in a supposed democratic setting. Citizens have a constitutional right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression—rights that must not be trampled upon”, it reads.

The Delta Online Publishers Forum considers the use of force to suppress these protests as an anti-democratic action and a gross abuse of power. We strongly condemn the actions of the security agencies involved and decry the intimidation of peaceful demonstrators who merely sought government attention and protection amid the growing wave of insecurity in Abraka.

We also reference the recent “State of the State” address by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, in which he assured Deltans and investors of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Unfortunately, this promise rings hollow in light of the recent events in Abraka, where protesters were met with gunfire rather than dialogue, resulting in injuries and chaos.

“We call on both the Delta State and Federal Governments—particularly the military authorities—to exercise restraint and caution when dealing with civilians. Excessive force has cost Delta State dearly in the past, as seen in the tragic incident in Okuama. We must not allow history to repeat itself”.

The Delta Online Publishers Forum urges the government to pursue more sustainable and humane solutions to the worsening cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, and ritual killings that have plagued communities across Delta State in recent times. The path forward must be one of dialogue, justice, and genuine concern for the safety and rights of the people, not suppression and abuse.

World Communications Day: Delta Speaker Pledges Transparency Through Communication

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has said that the State Legislature will continue to leverage on effective communication to engage citizens, share information, and build relationships between critical stakeholders in the state department.

Rt Hon Guwor in his goodwill message at the celebration of the “59th World Communications Day”, at St Bridge’s Catholic Church in Asaba, stated that the power of communication in shaping the world can not be overemphasized.

The Speaker who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, CPS, Nkem Nwaeke, said “Effective communication fosters understanding, promotes unity, and drives progress.

“The Delta State House of Assembly, leverage communication to engage citizens, share information, and build relationships. The 8th Assembly utilizes various channels to keep the public informed about our activities and decisions.

“The Assembly will continue to harness the potential of communication to promote transparency and accountability, Foster citizen engagement and participation and Enhance public awareness and education”, Guwor stated.

The Speaker appreciated Journalists, Media Practitioners, and Communicators for their belief in and support for his leadership and in their role in shaping public discourse.

While congratulating all for the 59th celebration of the World Communication Day, Rt Hon Guwor who is the National Treasurer, Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria, expressed optimism that the day will inspire all to leverage communication for the betterment of the society.

The message from His Holiness, the Pope, on the event as presented by Mr Samuel Fejokwu, SSA to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Protocol, reads, “Dear brothers and sisters! In these our times, characterized by disinformation and polarization, as a few centers of power control an unprecedented mass of data and information, I would like to speak to you as one who is well aware of the importance – now more than ever – of your work as journalists and communicators. Your courageous efforts to put personal and collective responsibility towards others at the heart of communication are indeed necessary.

“As I reflect on the Jubilee we are celebrating this year as a moment of grace in these troubled times, I would like in this Message to invite you to be “communicators of hope”, starting from a renewal of your work and mission in the spirit of the Gospel.

“Disarming communication. Too often today, communication generates not hope, but fear and despair, prejudice and resentment, fanaticism and even hatred. All too often it simplifies reality in order to provoke instinctive reactions; it uses words like a razor; it even uses false or artfully distorted information to send messages designed to agitate, provoke or hurt. On several occasions, I have spoken of our need to “disarm” communication and to purify it of aggressiveness. It never helps to reduce reality to slogans. All of us see how – from television talk shows to verbal attacks on social media – there is a risk that the paradigm of competition, opposition, the will to dominate and possess, and the manipulation of public opinion will prevail.

Continuing, the Pope noted, “There is also another troubling phenomenon: what we might call the “programmed dispersion of attention” through digital systems that, by profiling us according to the logic of the market, modify our perception of reality. As a result, we witness, often helplessly, a sort of atomization of interests that ends up undermining the foundations of our existence as community, our ability to join in the pursuit of the common good, to listen to one another and to understand each other’s point of view. Identifying an “enemy” to lash out against thus appears indispensable as a way of asserting ourselves. Yet when others become our “enemies”, when we disregard their individuality and dignity in order to mock and deride them, we also lose the possibility of generating hope. As Don Tonino Bello observed, all conflicts “start when individual faces melt away and disappear”. [1] We must not surrender to this mindset.

“Hope, in fact, is not something easy. Georges Bernanos once said that, “only those are capable of hope, who have had the courage to despair of the illusions and lies in which they once found security and which they falsely mistook for hope… Hope is a risk that must be taken. It is the risk of risks”. [2] Hope is a hidden virtue, tenacious and patient. For Christians, it is not an option but a necessary condition. As Pope Benedict XVI noted in the Encyclical Spe Salvi, hope is not passive optimism but, on the contrary, a “performative” virtue capable of changing our lives: “The one who has hope lives differently; the one who hopes has been granted the gift of a new life’ (No. 2).

“Accounting with gentleness for the hope that is in us In the First Letter of Peter (3:15-16), we find an admirable synthesis in which hope is linked to Christian witness and communication: “In your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence”. I would like to dwell on three messages that we can glean from these words.

“In your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord”. The hope of Christians has a face, the face of the risen Lord. His promise to remain always with us through the gift of the Holy Spirit enables us to hope even against all hope, and to perceive the hidden goodness quietly present even when all else seems lost.

“The second message is that we should be prepared to explain the hope that is in us. Significantly, the Apostle tells us to give an accounting of our hope “to anyone who demands” it. Christians are not primarily people who “talk about” God, but who resonate with the beauty of his love and a new way of experiencing everything. Theirs is a lived love that raises the question and calls for an answer: Why do you live like this? Why are you like this?

“In Saint Peter’s words, we find, finally, a third message: our response to this question is to be made “with gentleness and reverence”. Christian communication – but I would also say communication in general – should be steeped in gentleness and closeness, like the talk of companions on the road. This was the method of the greatest communicator of all time, Jesus of Nazareth, who, as he walked alongside the two disciples of Emmaus, spoke with them and made their hearts burn within them as he interpreted events in the light of the Scriptures.

“I dream of a communication capable of making us fellow travelers, walking alongside our brothers and sisters and encouraging them to hope in these troubled times. A communication capable of speaking to the heart, arousing not passionate reactions of defensiveness and anger, but attitudes of openness and friendship. A communication capable of focusing on beauty and hope even in the midst of apparently desperate situations, and generating commitment, empathy and concern for others. A communication that can help us in “recognizing the dignity of each human being, and [in] working together to care for our common home” (Dilexit Nos, 217).

“I dream of a communication that does not peddle illusions or fears, but is able to give reasons for hope. Martin Luther King once said: “If I can help someone as I pass along, if I can cheer somebody with a word or song… then my living will not be in vain”. [3] To do this, though, we must be healed of our “diseases” of self-promotion and self-absorption, and avoid the risk of shouting over others in order to make our voices heard. A good communicator ensures that those who listen, read or watch can be involved, can draw close, can get in touch with the best part of themselves and enter with these attitudes into the stories told. Communicating in this way helps us to become “pilgrims of hope”, which is the motto of the present Jubilee.

“Hope is always a community project. Let us think for a moment of the grandeur of the message offered by this Year of Grace. We are all invited – all of us! – to start over again, to let God lift us up, to let him embrace us and shower us with mercy. In this regard, the personal and communal aspects are inseparably connected: we set out together, we journey alongside our many brothers and sisters, and we pass through the Holy Door together.

“The Jubilee has many social implications. We can think, for example, of its message of mercy and hope for those who live in prisons, or its call for closeness and tenderness towards those who suffer and are on the margins. The Jubilee reminds us that those who are peacemakers “will be called children of God” (Mt 5:9), and in this way it inspires hope, points us to the need for an attentive, gentle and reflective communication, capable of pointing out paths of dialogue. For this reason, I encourage you to discover and make known the many stories of goodness hidden in the folds of the news, imitating those gold-prospectors who tirelessly sift the sand in search of a tiny nugget. It is good to seek out such seeds of hope and make them known. It helps our world to be a little less deaf to the cry of the poor, a little less indifferent, a little less closed in on itself. May you always find those glimmers of goodness that inspire us to hope. This kind of communication can help to build communion, to make us feel less alone, to rediscover the importance of walking together.

“Dear brothers and sisters, in the face of the astonishing achievements of technology, I encourage you to care for your heart, your interior life. What does that mean? Let me offer you a few thoughts.

“Be meek and never forget the faces of other people; speak to the hearts of the women and men whom you serve in carrying out your work.

“Do not allow instinctive reactions to guide your communication. Always spread hope, even when it is difficult, even when it costs, even when it seems not to bear fruit.

“Try to promote a communication that can heal the wounds of our humanity. Make room for the heartfelt trust that, like a slender but resistant flower, does not succumb to the ravages of life, but blossoms and grows in the most unexpected places. It is there in the hope of those mothers who daily pray to see their children return from the trenches of a conflict, and in the hope of those fathers who emigrate at great risk in search of a better future. It is also there in the hope of those children who somehow manage to play, laugh and believe in life even amid the debris of war and in the impoverished streets of favelas.

“Be witnesses and promoters of a non-aggressive communication; help to spread a culture of care, build bridges and break down the visible and invisible barriers of the present time.

“Tell stories steeped in hope, be concerned about our common destiny and strive to write together the history of our future.

“All this you can do, and we can do, with God’s grace, which the Jubilee helps us to receive in abundance. This is my prayer, and with it, I bless each of you and your work”, His Holiness added.

Bishop of the Issele Uku Diocese of the Catholic Church, Bishop Micheal Odogu Elue, who officiated the Special Mass for the World Communication Day celebration, was represented by Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Mobuogwu, the Vicar-General of the Diocese.

In his address, Bishop Elue felicitated with all media professionals, practitioners and commentators for the celebration, and urged all to continue to communicate Hope, even in Hopeless situations.

The Mass was attended by several Journalists, media practitioners, communicators and friends of personalities in the industry.

There were presentations of gifts and special thanksgiving by the Catholic Media Workers Association Of Nigeria, (CAMWAN), Delta State chapter.

Onyeme Urges Deltans To Invest In The State 

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA has called on well-to-do Deltans to invest in the state.

He made the call today while inaugurating Decency Hotel and Suites, Kwale in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State.

He emphasized that Deltans should not leave investments in the state solely in the hands of Non-Deltans because of the huge and quick returns on investment.

He said, “This hotel is a great boost to our tourism industry; we believe that this investment will encourage other Deltans to come and invest in our state because, we cannot rely on Non-Deltans alone to invest and develop our state, our communities.

“Our Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has made our state to be very conducive for investment and with the MORE Agenda, our state will always have quick returns on investment for those who are doing genuine business in our state.

“As an individual, I understand that one challenge facing investors in Kwale is electricity supply and I can assure you that we are working with all relevant agencies to ensure that there is steady electricity supply in Kwale, Ndokwa land and all parts of our state.

“What we require from our people is patience, pray for us and support the government of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.”

Earlier, the Chairman, Decency Hotel and Suites, Chief Benson Ogwu said the hotel was established to boost tourism in the area and provide world-class services to its customers.

The event was witnessed by top government functionaries, traditional rulers, captains of industry, among others.

Oborevwori’s Scorecard: Deltans Should Expect More Legacy Projects Till 2031 – Oghenesivbe

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…says no vacancy in Government House Asaba in 2027

Director General, Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe Esq, has assured the people that the state governor, Dr (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, will continue to deliver more dividends of democracy, especially legacy projects till May 29, 2031.

He gave the assurance via Rize and Joy FM radio stations live interviews on Saturday, saying that there is no vacancy in Government House Asaba in 2027.

He further disclosed that Oborevwori administration had empowered 266,737 people through various intervention programmes including; Delta State Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus, D-CARES, Women Empowerment and Skills Acquisition Programme, WESAP, Working Fingers, More Biz-Up, and several others, while urging Deltans to sustain their prayers and support for the governor.

Dr Oghenesivbe disclosed that the governor’s deep rooted local connection with the people, coupled with his wealth of experience and pragmatic leadership style helped in multifaceted ways to enhance good governance, and fasttracked socioeconomic and infrastructural development in Delta State.

The Bureau Chief said 23,887 retired civil servants in the state benefited from payment of retirement arrears amounting to N5.5 billion, while 362 officers were paid promotion arrears as contained in the Mid-Term report presented to the State House of Assembly by governor Oborevwori.

Dr Oghenesivbe said the Mid-Term report was a positive demonstration of governor Oborevwori’s compliance to the principles of constitutional democracy which allocated the power of oversight functions to the Legislature, adding that it was important for the governor to give account of his performance and/or stewardship as required by enabling Laws, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He stated that star projects, such as the three flyovers and pedestrian bridges at DSC roundabout, PTI and Enerhen junctions up to Marine Gate, as well as the 46 kilometre Ughelli-Asaba highway dualization are near completion due to proper funding and regular inspection of projects by governor Oborevwori.

He assured that the entire 153 road projects awarded by Oborevwori administration measuring 1,378.59 kilometers and 292.05 kilometers of drains shall be delivered according to standards and specifications.

Dr Oghenesivbe quoted governor Oborevwori as saying that 42 road projects are to be inaugurated in commemoration of his second year anniversary in office, including the Isheagwu-Ewulu road, and the phase one bridge, pointing out that the entire road infrastructure in the state are 431 projects with a length of 2,595.56 kilometres and 822.47 kilometres of drains being constructed across the three senatorial districts.

He congratulated Governor Oborevwori over his superlative performance and achievements in all sectors of the state economy, which according to him, surpassed the expectations of the people.

The Bureau of Communications Director General urged the governor to keep the flag flying till May 29, 2031, as already sanctioned by majority of the people, and the entire leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the State.

#fredlatimore

Tantita Security Services Reaffirms Commitment to Peace and Development in Niger Delta

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By John Paul

Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and development in the Niger Delta region, pledging continued collaboration with stakeholders and investment in youth empowerment initiatives. The company’s Managing Director, High Chief Keston Pondi, made this declaration on Saturday, May 31, 2025, during the official commissioning of the Isoko Youth House (Fred Obe Secretariat) in Ozoro, Delta State.

Speaking at the event, Chief Pondi emphasized that Tantita’s mandate from the federal government—primarily to safeguard critical oil infrastructure—goes beyond pipeline surveillance. He stated that the company is equally focused on fostering long-term peace and unity by empowering local youths and supporting community development.

The newly inaugurated Isoko Youth House, located along the Ozoro/Kwale Road opposite the Southern Delta University Gate, symbolizes the company’s ongoing efforts in this direction. Pondi officially unveiled the facility on behalf of Tantita Chairman, Chief Government Ekpemupolo (alias Tompolo), describing it as a fulfilled promise to empower, organize, and give voice to the aspirations of Isoko youths.

Delta State Commissioner of Youths, Hon. ThankGod Harry Frakriowei, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, described the youth house as a “symbol of hope, opportunity, and progress.” He noted that the facility, equipped with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) gadgets, will function as a training centre to equip youths with various skills and serve as a catalyst for innovation. He added that the project aligns with the administration’s MORE agenda, which focuses on youth empowerment and development.

The president of the Isoko National Youths Assembly Worldwide, Comrade Eniwake Orogun, hailed the Isoko Youth House as a lasting symbol of collective struggle. He explained that naming the facility after Chief Fred Obe honours his pioneering leadership and role in championing the rights of the Isoko people during the Niger Delta struggle for self-determination and equitable oil revenue distribution.

Chief Fred Obe, in his remarks, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture and recounted the historical context of the Isoko Youth House, dating back to 1997/1998. He highlighted the joint efforts with leaders like Tompolo and Asari Dokubo in advocating for justice for oil-producing communities, which eventually earned national recognition during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

Obe extended gratitude to Chief Pondi for his significant support in completing the project and reaffirmed the enduring relationship between the Isoko and Ijaw nations. Comrade Orogun also acknowledged other contributors, particularly Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko and Chief Pondi, the latter of whom was credited with making an “elephant-size” donation.

The fully equipped Isoko Youth House was completed at a cost exceeding ₦200 million, and attendees at the event were urged to ensure its longevity through proper maintenance and responsible use.

Aniocha-North Constituency II- The Background Story

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Ben Isioma Okafor.

It was an epic battle.Long drawn and intriguing but eventful in finality. The history of the struggle for restoration of Aniocha North II State Constituency began in 2014. The demand fiery and fierce, amidst high expectations against subternerian resistance.

Emboldened with tough determination, the constituents of Aniocha North II : Idumuje-Unor, Idumuje-Ugboko, Ukwu-Nzu, Ugboba, Idumuogo, Ugbodu, Ubulubu, Anioma, and Ogodo towns in Aniocha North Local Government Area initiated a legal action at the Federal High Court, Asaba. The unanimous prayer: restoration of the Constituency which was illegally terminated after it was granted in line with the 1999 Federal Constitution.

The Constituency was originally represented at the Delta State House of Assembly by Hon. Chinakwe from Ukwu-Nzu community.

TEMPORARY SETBACK: CASE DISMISSED.

That suit was dismissed by the Federal High Court, but the affected communities , resilient and undeterred, took the matter to the Court of Appeal in Benin City.

Then the appellate court , delivered a judgment in favour of the Constituents on November 22, 2017, ordered the restoration of Aniocha North II State Constituency and swiftly directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections in the constituency to the Delta State House of Assembly.

CHALLENGE FROM THE INEC.

For inexplicable reasons, INEC challenged the Court of Appeal ruling at the Supreme Court. Strikingly, INEC’s application against the Appeal court judgment was summarily dismissed by the Supreme Court on November 29, 2019.

The Supreme Court unequivocally affirmed the Court of Appeal’s judgment as “final, binding, and legally non-appealable”. It irrevocably mandated INEC to conduct election to the Delta State House of Assembly towards the restoration of Aniocha North state Constituency II.

FRENZIED DIALOGUE WITH ANIOCHA-NORTH.

Handicapped by the Supreme Court’s ruling, the INEC convened a high-powered interactive meeting with Aniocha North stakeholders on November 19, 2020 at the Events Centre, Issele-Uku.

The stakeholders were all Aniocha-North Traditional Rulers, political party chieftains, policy makers as well as other interest groups.

OBI ANYASI SPEAKS FOR THE KINGS

To kick off the dialogue, the INEC representatives requested Aniocha-North kings to present their collective position as to whether or not they desired the restoration of Aniocha-North State Constituency II in Delta State as ordered by the Supreme Court. The kings promptly consulted and nominated the Obi of Idumuje-Unor , His Royal Majesty Charles Chukwunwike Anyasi III (JP) to speak for them.

In a terse lucid response, the Obi of Idumuje Unor,declared to the massive audience that it would be preposterous,implausible and unconstitutional to deviate from the mandate of the Supreme Court judgment.He concluded pointedly that the irreversible judgement be implemented as a fait accompli.

The affirmation of Obi Anyasi’s avowal by Prof. Godwin Nduka (Vice Chancellor, Novena University) and Prince Walters Eziashi who spoke next presented the INEC chieftains with no other option than to pledge implementation of the supreme court directive.

SUBTLE NEGOTIATIONS.

As the INEC officials departed, politicians from some other kingdoms, suddenly desirous of inclusion in the revamped Aniocha North Constituency II, requested Idumuje / Odiani geographical entity to look into the possibility of harbouring them.

A second meeting was scheduled at Issele Uku on November 21, 2020. At the reconvened meeting, His Majesty, the Obi of Idumuje-Unor stood up once more to reaffirm the people’s will for the adherence of Idumuje / Odiani to the irrevocability of the Supreme Court judgment. His argument was that since the

delineation that produced the original Constituency was what the Supreme Court upheld, any addition or subtraction would precariously destabilise the constitutional status quo.The position of the Obi,aided by heavy weight of the law was impregnable to fault.

INEC’S REPORT TO THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY.

The INEC subsequently submitted a comprehensive report to the National Assembly, urging NASS to make a declaration in line with Section 115 of the 1999 Constitution. That action was however prolonged by political subterfuge and brinkmanship, which included a failed Court case.

SENATE APPROVAL.

Alas! March 10, 2025, the Nigerian Senate finally approved the restoration of the State Constituency in compliance with the Supreme Court judgment. The Senate resolved that INEC should ensure the restoration with effect from the next State House of Assembly Election after the current life of the Delta State House of Assembly. The affirmation followed a bold motion by Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North at the national Assembly,who incidentally hails from Idumuje/Odiani clan as a native of Idumuje Ugboko.

AFFIRMATION BY THE HOUSE.

The Senate position was affirmed by the House of Representatives on May 15, 2025, following a timely motion by Hon. Ngozi Okolie, representing Aniocha/Oshimili Constituency.The incontrovertible concurrent position of both cadres of the National Assembly has thus put a vintage seal to the validity of Aniocha North state Constituency II.

The significant role played by Hon. Justice Chukwudumebi Oseji now of blessed memory, in the restoration struggle would ever live in glory. An erudite proud and patriotic son of Idumuje Unor. A matchless crusader of social justice and human liberty.

Also in the hall of joy, all worthy of celebratory appreciation are countless eminent and ordinary sons and daughters of Idumuje/Odiani clan who toiled day and night at different levels with diverse energies to actualise the restoration of the constituency .

Today Aniocha North state Constituency II stands as a reality ahead of 2027.A divine mandate. Unstoppable

For Idumuje/Odiani ,it is BACK TO FREEDOM!

Isioma Okafor is a Public Affairs/ Policy analyst.

Gateway Games 2024: Senator Ned Nwoko Celebrates Delta’s Win, Urges Early Talent Grooming

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North and Chancellor of the Sports University of Nigeria, has congratulated Team Delta for their outstanding performance at the just-concluded Gateway Games 2024, where the state secured its fifth consecutive National Sports Festival title.

The festival, which wrapped up on Thursday, brought together over 10,000 athletes across 549 events, offering a vibrant platform for showcasing talent and resilience from all parts of Nigeria. Team Delta led the medal table with 98 gold, 66 silver, and 80 bronze medals—maintaining a wide margin over their closest competitors, Bayelsa and Ogun States.

Commending the athletes, Senator Nwoko described their victory as a testament to the determination and natural resilience of young Nigerians.

“Our athletes have proven once again that talent abounds in every corner of this country. What we must now do is ensure that talent is not wasted. It must be nurtured, trained, and prepared long before competitions like this,” he said.

The Senator emphasized the importance of institutionalizing sports preparation through year-round training, early athlete identification, and development programs if Nigeria hopes to excel not just at local festivals, but at continental and global stages.

“Winning at home is great, but our ambition should be global. That means deliberate and structured preparation, not last-minute fire brigade approaches. We must start preparing our athletes for tomorrow — today,” he said.

As Chancellor of the Sports University of Nigeria, Nwoko reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to being a hub for advanced training, research, and collaboration in sports science and development.

“The doors of the Sports University remain open to young athletes, coaches, and stakeholders for training, partnership, and continuous improvement. We are building an ecosystem that doesn’t just celebrate wins — we create winners,” he added.

While Delta celebrates its dominance at the national level, Senator Nwoko called on sports administrators across Nigeria to embrace a more proactive and grassroots-driven approach to discovering and nurturing talent.

266,737 Deltans Have Benefited From Our Social Intervention Programmes – Oborevwori

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…Approves CONLESS For Delta Assembly Workers, N15,000 Stipend For Widows

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced that his administration has empowered a total of 266,737 Deltans through various social intervention and empowerment programmes across the state.

Governor Oborevwori made this known while delivering the State of the State address to members of the Delta State House of Assembly at the Assembly Complex.

He stated that his administration has been deliberate, intentional, and proactive in providing a safety net for vulnerable groups through well-targeted social protection initiatives, particularly in light of the current economic challenges.

According to him, the 266,737 beneficiaries were empowered through several programmes, including the Delta CARES (D-CARES) Programme, Women Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Programme (WESAP), Working Fingers Initiative, MORE Grants Scheme, MORE Biz-Up Programme, and the Widows Welfare Scheme.

Under the D-CARES Programme, the Governor said 247,000 Deltans have been empowered, noting that the release of N1 Billion as counterpart funding for the African Union Development Agency–New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD), has supported 2,000 farmers engaged in food production, livestock, and aquaculture.

The Governor further revealed that 220 women were recently trained in fashion design, hairdressing, catering, decoration and event management, as well as makeup and gele tying under the WESAP initiative.

He added that the programme was extended to 91 people living with disabilities, who were trained in ICT, confectionery, fashion design, and leatherwork.

“We also distributed fertilizers to farmers across the 25 Local Government Areas of the state to support our efforts in ensuring food security,” the Governor said.

He went on to explain that the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development had trained and supported 2,000 women across the state in practical skills, mental health education, and entrepreneurship under the Working Fingers Initiative.

Through the MORE Grants Scheme, the state government has empowered micro and small-scale businesses, offering financial support to 5,426 petty traders and small business owners in response to ongoing economic hardships.

Governor Oborevwori, said: “Through the Job and Wealth Creation Bureau, we have supported 2,000 MSMEs with funding and business support packages under the MORE Biz-Up Programme.

“These programmes underscore our unwavering commitment to building a resilient and inclusive economy that uplifts the most vulnerable and promotes shared prosperity.

“This administration holds the welfare of widows in high regard, and we will continue doing everything within our power to improve their quality of life under the Widows Welfare Scheme.

“I have just approved the payment of a N15,000 monthly stipend for 10,000 widows across the state”.

Appreciating the Speaker and members of the State Legislature for maintaining an excellent relationship with the Executive, the Governor acknowledged that the achievements of his administration would not have been possible without the support and cooperation between both arms of government.

“I consider myself fortunate to work with a legislature that is genuinely committed to partnering with the Executive to achieve its goals. The relationship between this House and my office has been marked by trust, mutual understanding, transparency, and accountability.

“At this point, I would like to briefly address the issue of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS). As a former Speaker, I support the new salary scale. However, due to the introduction of a new minimum wage, this administration needed to conduct due diligence before making a decision.

“I am pleased to announce that I have approved the payment of CONLESS, effective June 2025. I thank the workers and their leaders for their patience, understanding, and support,” he added.

2ND ANNIVERSARY: Oborevwori Promises Enhanced Transformational Leadership In Delta

By
Hill Nigeria
-

…Solicits Continous Prayers, Support From Deltans

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has assured that the remaining two years of his administration would be marked by continued transformational leadership and development across the state.

Speaking at the 2025 Delta State Thanksgiving and Praise Day held at the Events Centre in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori expressed optimism that the state’s strategic alliance with the Federal Government being one of the top contributors to the nation’s revenue, would yield even greater dividends for the people of the state.

He thanked Deltans for their support, unity, and commitment to the state’s peace and progress over the past two years, assuring that even greater development laid ahead.

Governor Oborevwori; “To the glory of God, this administration has reached the halfway mark of its tenure. These past two years have been focused on consolidating previous achievements, breaking new ground, and creating fresh pathways for the socio-economic advancement of our beloved Delta State.

“It is our custom in Delta State to return all the glory to God for all He has done, and today, we are here to show our appreciation”.

While highlighting the progress made so far, he said the state had much to be thankful for.

He said: “Yesterday, I presented our midterm report to the State House of Assembly. It is a catalogue of progress across all indices of socio-economic development. Indeed, God has been faithful to us.

“As you know, thanksgiving is an application for more. We need more, and that is why we have come here to give thanks”.

He said: “As we begin the third year of our administration with thanksgiving, I believe God will continue to increase us and grant us our collective desires as a people.

“I am delighted to see our federal lawmakers, federal appointees, and leaders of our great party, the APC, fully represented here today. This gathering reflects the diversity and unity of our state.

“I believe we are more united now than ever, and we shall continue in that unity in Jesus’ name. The faces here today represent the who’s who of Delta State. For the first time in ten years, we are united. To God be the glory.”

Governor Oborevwori urged Deltans to continue praying for the state as it progresses on its path of peace and development.

“We covet your prayers and continued support in our mission to advance Delta State through the MORE Agenda. I assure you all that we will do more, and we will listen to the people more.

“The remaining two years of this administration will be an exciting adventure in transformational leadership. As a major contributor to the national coffers, Delta State deserves and will receive more benefits from the center”, he said.

In his sermon titled “Giving Thanks and Enduring to Keep the Unity in the Bond of Peace,” based on Ephesians 4:3, the Archbishop of Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, Archbishop Cyril Odutemu, congratulated Governor Oborevwori and the people of Delta State on the second anniversary of the administration.

He lauded the Governor for his remarkable achievements within two years, describing him as “a child of destiny.”

The Archbishop noted that those who once doubted or underestimated Oborevwori’s leadership were now witnesses to his impressive performance.

He cited the successful completion of the Ughelli-Asaba Highway as a project that had further endeared the Governor to the people.

Emphasizing the importance of unity and inclusiveness and urged the Governor to maintain close relationships with key stakeholders across the state.

The Archbishop also offered prayers for Governor Oborevwori, asking God to help him fulfill his mandate and for peace and unity to reign in Delta State.

The Thanksgiving and Praise Day event was graced by the wife of the Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme and his wife, Catherine; Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and his wife, Edith, Senators Ned Nwoko, Ede Dafinone, and Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; members of the House of Representatives; the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, Elder Omeni Sobotie and a host of other dignitaries.

1...161718...165Page 17 of 165

MOST READ

LATEST STORIES

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

© 2022 - The Hill Nigeria