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The Pointer At 30: Promote National Unity Through Your News Dissemination, Oborevwori Tells Journalists 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori urged the mass media to consolidate on its constitutional role of balanced factual reportage and agenda setting to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

Oborevwori also charged the media on dissemination of news and information that promote national unity.

He made the call in his remarks at the 30th anniversary of The Pointer newspaper held in Asaba, with theme: Honouring Truth and Unity Through Excellence in Public Communication.

The Governor, who bagged The Pointer’s “Exemplary Democrat and Transformational Leadership Award” at the ceremony, emphasized that the media must speak truth to power in a civil and responsible manner, and hold political leaders accountable to the people as enshrined in the Constitution.

He urged journalists to downplay news that aggravate the religious and ethnic fault lines in the country for the sake of enduring peace and sustainable national development.

Oborevwori said: “It has been thirty years of twists and turns, trials and triumphs in the turbulent world of print journalism.  In three decades of its existence, I want to say without any fear of contradiction that The Pointer has done well in playing the traditional media roles of information, education, and entertainment.

“Even more significantly, The Pointer has been a strong ally of the Delta State Government in promoting the policies and programmes of successive administrations, while respectfully advocating for unity and peaceful co-existence.

“The media have a strong social and cultural impact upon the society; thus, it should reflect and project the positive image of the society. I dare say The Pointer has been very effective in this regard.

“I am proud to say that the newspaper has maintained strong editorial focus, professional editing, and reader-friendly layout. I am aware that many journalists who have passed through The Pointer have gone on to hold important political positions in government. For instance, my Chief Press Secretary was a reporter here for at least eight years”.

The Governor, who acknowledged challenges faced by the newspaper, said circulation had dropped with advertising patronage remained low while its online presence remained poor.

His words,”The circulation of the newspaper has dropped, advertising patronage remains low, and the newspaper’s online presence is nothing to write home about.

“As a result, the newspaper is yet to become financially self-sustaining after 30 years in the business. It continues to rely on government patronage and subventions to meet its financial obligations. This must change, especially in view of the current economic situation in the country.

“There is a compelling need for the Board and Management to review its operations with a view to making the newspaper self-supporting.

“There is a big problem when a thirty-year-old man is still dependent on his parents for survival and sustenance. I think the marketing arm of the newspaper needs to be rejigged in line with global best practices.

“There is need to have a mind shift as a matter of urgency. Even though the company is owned by the state government, it is also a business that needs to exploit opportunities in the market for profit and growth.

“In this age of new media, there is no reason why The Pointer should not have a robust, viable online presence. Most people now depend on hand-held devices for news and other information.”

He commended the Ebenezer Okorodudu- led Board for the current initiatives aimed at revamping the newspaper and tasked it to develop products targeted at different market segments to boost its revenues.

He said his administration remained irrevocably committed to openness and transparency in the business of governance, saying; “we see the press as partners in development and we are committed to providing the environment for them to continue the discharge of their duties without let or hindrance.

“The only thing we desire is that journalists should please fact-check their information with relevant government officials before publication for accuracy, fairness, and balance, in line with the ethics of the profession, and should not resort to blackmail.”

Chairman of the occasion and former Minister of Information, Prof Sam Oyavbaire, who said The Pointer Newspapers remained one of the outstanding state- owned print media in Nigeria, lauded the company for being a nurturing ground for exceptional journalists.

He challenged management and staff of the company to redouble efforts in promoting the policies and programmes of the state government, affirming that there was need for them to continue to train and retrain staff for maximum performance.

In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, said the newspaper had delivered on its mandate of information dissemination across the state and beyond.

Osuoza said the Newspaper had endured over the years due to the professionalism of the board, management and staff, adding that the newspaper had consistently sold out daily copies and appealed to the Governor to increase the print run.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for upgrading and maintaining the equipment for the state’s owned media outfits.

Welcoming guests earlier, Chairman of The Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation, Publishers of The Pointer Newspaper, Olorogun Ebenezer Okorodudu said the company had
consistently delivered accurate information to Deltans, the South-South and the entire Nigeria.

He said the newspaper was founded October 28, 1994 and had continued to keep faith with growing prospects of readers in print, online and PDF platforms.

Okorodudu added that 20 per cent of the newspaper’s revenue had been set aside for staff training and development, stressing that the newspaper remained pointed towards the truth, unity and implementation of the State Governor’s MORE Agenda.

Group Blasts Asari Dokubi

… Says He Remains Unfit To Aspire For Leadership Position In Ijaw Nation

The Ijaw Consultative Assembly has carpeted Mojahadeen Asari Dokubi over his recent resolve to lead the Ijaw Nation into an alliance with Hausa/Fulani of the North, saying Ijaw Nation will not reduce itself to the point of Asari Dokubi’s leadership.

The Group made it clear that Asari Dokubo didn’t represent the Ijaw people in his recent outbursts and he should be ignored and left to stew in his juice.

In a Press Statement signed by Chief Julius Ekpokememi ( President) and Chief Tariebi Ari, ( Secretary), the group said that Dokubo’s comments were meant to incite unrest in the Niger Delta, but up to this moment, they haven’t sparked the spontaneous convulsions he contemplated, or fuelled a vista of feud between the Ijaw Nation and Odua People.

The Ijaw Nation, according to the group,has not descended so low to the point of requiring Asari Dokubo to lead it, adding that his immaturity, unstable disposition and verbose nature, cancelled him completely in any lineup to pick leaders amongst the Ijaws

Blasting him further, the group said he remains unfit to aspire for leadership in their amidst ,talk more of being at the head an alliance emissary between the Ijaw nation and the Hausa/Fulani, if ever there is to be one.

The group described Asari as uncouth, and exhibits the likeliness of a buffoon, and therefore cannot lead anyone in the 21st century, except barbarians and said that
those who aspire for leadership must exercise self restraint, be reserved, good natured and must not display love for filthy lucre.

It stated that with avarice written all over him, Asari at the inception of the Tinubu administration, goaded himself pompously, making audacious and embarrassing press statements in the Presidential Villa, on behalf of the new administration, without authorization, adding that it was good riddance to a bad rubbish when the President without much ado eased him out of the Villa surroundings and, “Ever since his oust, he has been craving attention”.

“It is in fact unclear who appointed Asari Dokubo the Ijaw nation’s leader, or its spokesperson. His incendiary and inflammatory rhetoric only serves to seek attention from the Federal Government. His activism has for long lost credibility, and his influence is limited to a handful of illiterates, miscreants and thugs”, the group said.

Here Is The Full Statement By The Ijaw Consultative Assembly:

IJAW NATION WON’T REDUCE ITSELF TO THE POINT OF ASARI DOKUBO’S LEADERSHIP

The ever garrulous, talkative, Mojahadeen Asari Dokubo, recently went a notch further in his regular tirades, bumbling about a self assigned resolve to lead the Ijaw Nation into an alliance with Hausa/Fulani of the north.

He cited past alliances that existed between the North and Ijaw pioneer leaders of the 1950s/1960s.

Asari’s burst of temper came on the heels of the reconfiguration of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, to accommodate development agencies recently created for other zones, by the federal government, and renamed, Ministry of Regional Development.

In a recent video making the rounds on social media, the vociferous Asari saw the innovation as an aberration – a sacrilegious affront against the people of the Niger Delta Region, most especially the Ijaw Nation, by the President Tinubu led federal government.

Asari whined endlessly of the change as a Yoruba agenda to abort the existing template adopted for the Niger Delta region’s development – a design to whittle down the geopolitical zone’s progress and interest.

Asari Dokubo called the federal government action a Yoruba betrayal of Ijaw People.

Asari opined that new nomenclature tends to derail the original intent and purpose for the establishment of the Niger Delta Ministry.

The Mojahadeen is entitled to his opinions, even if he spoke from both sides of the mouth. We know he once talked glowingly of Ahmed Tinubu before and after the general elections of 2023.

However, we don’t know where the bus left him, which led to this doublespeak.

The Dokubo’s comments were meant to incite unrest in the Niger Delta, but up to this moment of putting pen on paper, they haven’t sparked the spontaneous convulsions he contemplated, or fuelled a vista of feud between the Ijaw Nation and Odua People.

His self-serving outburst has had little or no impact.

It is in fact unclear who appointed Asari Dokubo the Ijaw nation’s leader, or its spokesperson. His incendiary and inflammatory rhetoric only serves to seek attention from the Federal Government. His activism has for long lost credibility, and his influence is limited to a handful of illiterates, miscreants and thugs.

The Ijaw Nation has not descended so low to the point of requiring Asari Dokubo to lead it. His immaturity, unstable disposition and verbose nature, cancelled him completely in any lineup to pick leaders amongst the Ijaws.

He remains unfit to aspire for leadership in our amidst – talk more of being at the head an alliance emissary between the Ijaw nation and the Hausa/Fulani, if ever there is to be one.

Asari is uncouth, he exhibits the likeliness of a buffoon, and therefore cannot lead anyone in the 21st century, except barbarians.

Those who aspire for leadership must exercise self restraint, be reserved, good natured and must not display love for filthy lucre.

With avarice written all over him, Asari at the inception of the Tinubu administration, goaded himself pompously – making audacious and embarrassing press statements in the Presidential Villa, on behalf of the new administration, without authorization.

It was good riddance to a bad rubbish when Mr. President without much ado eased him out of the Villa surroundings. Ever since his oust, he has been craving attention.

We hope Mr. President indulges him soon.

In consonance with the foregoing, Asari coming out to rant about Yoruba betrayal of the Ijaw Nation sounds like an old wives tale. It bears no weight nor a resemblance of truth. It is a mere figment in his warped mind. They say a drowning man would clutch even at a straw to stay afloat. Asari Dokubo didn’t represent the Ijaw people in his recent outburst. He should be ignored and left to stew in his juice.

The Federal Government and Armed Forces are to blamed for failing to address his audacious display of armed followers. In reality, Asari’s grievances stem from unmet personal expectations, particularly financial gains, from the President Tinubu’s administration.

His ego bruised from being ignored, Asari’s rantings therefore target Mr. President. However, educated and rational Ijaw individuals see through his manipulations. The Presidency should continue to disregard his outbursts as those of a frustrated man accustomed to living off public funds.

The former militant leader has no loyalty for anyone. Whatever he does is for personal gains. He was chased out of Yenagoa by the youths once led, when he tried to host a youth meeting. It was because they don’t trust him. Asari has never done any honest work in his entire checkered existence. Yet he has piled up wealth over the years – all through rascality.

Rather than build a university in Ijaw Land, he chose Benin Republic. An investment that could have benefited the region, in terms of employment and education. How can such a duplicitous man say he is a leader. A leader of who? He only supports courses for pecuniary motives.

Asari Dokubo is therefore a villain, a pariah and betenoire in the Ijaw nation. Ijaw or Izon means truth and integrity, traits which he lacks. How can such a fellow say he wants to head a team for Ijaw alliance with the Hausa/Fulani?

SIGNED:

CHIEF JULIUS EKPOKEMEMI
PRESIDENT

CHIEF TARIEBI ARI
PUBLICITY SECRETARY

Oshimili South Celebrates Excellence and Dedication

Today marked a momentous occasion as friends, families and well wishers gathered at The Grand Hotel Asaba to honour one of our finest leaders in the person of Ogbueshi Dada Okonji who is the immediate past Oshimili South PDP lga Chairman.

On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Pointer Newspaper, Ogbueshi Dada Okonji was recognized with the Prestigious Award for Commitment to Excellence, Leadership and Public Service, a well-deserved tribute to a man who has for long dedicated his life to the growth and progress of his community and beyond.

This award signifies more than a recognition as it is a testament to Ogbueshi Dada Okonji’s unwavering dedication to leadership, service and display of the ideals of The People’s Democratic Party (PDP). As the former PDP Chairman of Oshimili South, he had played a pivotal role in fostering unity, building trust, and implementing transformative initiatives that have impacted positively in the lives of many. His integrity, vision, and dedication has made positive difference in his community as he continues to inspire those around him with his passionate commitment to public service.

On this remarkable 30th anniversary of the Pointer Newspaper, we not only celebrate a publication that has continuously upheld the values of truth and information, but we also honour a leader who embodies these same principles in his service to the people. The Pointer Newspaper has been a voice for our people and today, it lends that voice to recognize one of our own for his tireless dedication and exemplary service.

Some notable political leaders including the incumbent PDP LGA Party Chairman in the person of Ogbueshi Chike Ifesiokwu, the incumbent Council Chairman Chief Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Sir. Tobechukwu Okonkwo, RT. Honourable Michael Okonji and a host of other top leaders and well wishers graced the occasion.

A big Congratulations to Ogbueshi Dada Okonji! May your legacy of excellence, fairness and commitment continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations IJN .

Today, Delta State celebrates you as we thank you for your incredible contributions. Here’s to many more years of impactful leadership and service!

~Oshimili South PDP Media Support Group ~

DTSG, Oborevwori Urges Adults To Participate in Hypertension, Diabetes Screening Exercise

…As State Bureau commences media awareness campaign across Delta State

Delta State Government has appealed to all adults, 18 years and above to make themselves available for the compulsory hypertension and diabetes screening exercise, scheduled to hold across the state, from 28th October to 3rd November, 2024.

The exercise is in compliance with the Federal Ministry of Health’s directive to all States Ministry of Health in Nigeria, under the Project 10 million campaign with the theme: Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers, wherein State Health Ministries are expected to screen all adults, 18 years and above to determine their status.

Director General, Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Barrister Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, in a statement on Sunday, said the Bureau had commenced intensive media awareness campaign across the state, through radio jingles, talkshows and other sensitization strategies, encouraging all adults to take advantage of the hypertension and Diabetes screening exercise.

He said the screening exercise is free of charge, and that medical personnel and officials from the Delta State Ministry of Health will be conducting the screening daily at designated centers across the state’s three senatorial districts, and 25 local government areas.

He further stated that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had emphasized the need for all Deltans, regardless of political affiliation, religion, or ethnicity to participate, adding that health is wealth, which is why government will continue to take quality healthcare delivery seriously as encapsulated in the governor’s MORE Agenda.

According to Oghenesivbe, it’s essential for all adults to participate, as hypertension and diabetes are significant health concerns, saying that studies showed that diabetes affects approximately 422 million adults worldwide.

The Bureau Chief disclosed that the screening exercise shall take place in the following designated screening centres; Delta State Secretariat along Mariam Babaginda Way Asaba, all State Government Hospitals, Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Asaba Specialist Hospital, Government House Clinic, Police Clinic, SSG’s Office, Head of Service Office, all Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and other institutions of higher learning across Delta State.

The hypertension and diabetes screening exercise shall also take place in all churches, mosques, market places, prisons, public health centers, and in all Local Government Council Secretariat across the state, Oghenesivbe said.

“All adults, 18 years and above are strongly advised to make themselves available at designated screening centres nearest to them for the hypertension and diabetes screening exercise to determine their status.

“His Excellency the Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, is concerned about the health of all Deltans, irrespective of political affiliations, religion or ethnic nationality, and he directed the State Ministry of Health to ensure that the screening is free of charge, meaning that government will bear the cost.

“Officials and medical personnel from Delta State Ministry of Health under the able leadership of the Honourable Commissioner, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, will be positioned at all designated screening centres to conduct the hypertension and diabetes screening exercise on daily basis, from 28th October to 3rd November, 2024,” the statement added.

Oborevwori’s Enviable Performance Continues Till 2031 – Bureau DG

… Assesses PR Credentials, Performance of Presidential Spokespersons in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic

Director General, Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has again affirmed his total conviction that governor Sheriff Oborevwori will govern the state till May 29, 2031, judging from his good governance strides and visionary leadership.

He assured that the speed of infrastructural and socioeconomic development across the three senatorial districts shall be upscaled in the coming years, noting that the people are already benefiting tremendously from ongoing reforms and programmes of the governor as enshrined in his MORE agenda.

Dr Oghenesivbe gave the assurance on Tuesday in Lagos, while speaking to Unilag FM Radio correspondent immediately after defending his Postgraduate Academic Dissertation titled “Accessing the Public Relations Credentials and Performance of Presidential Spokespersons in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic ,” at the Department of Mass Communication University of Lagos.

Dr Oghenesivbe is majored in Public Relations and Advertising, PRAD, Master of Science Degree, MSc, in Mass Communication, to essentially complement his Professional Doctorate Degree in Information and Media Strategy Management, Political Science and Law professional background.

He further asserted that prudent management of state resources has saved over N200billion from operating cost, while frivolous spending and blocking of financial leakes shall be sustained, assuring that with the proposed N936Billion 2025 budget, governor Oborevwori will turn the entire state into construction sites, while also leveraging economic prosperity through wealth and job creation.

On the ongoing crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, at the national level, the renowned political communication Strategist assured that the party will overcome her internal conflicts, and strategically position itself to win the 2027 presidential election, pointing out that life during the 16 years of PDP government at the centre was far more better that the hardship currently associated with the present ruling party, the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Dr Oghenesivbe appealed to PDP governors and founding fathers of the party, to unite against the dark forces confronting the party, noting that some political gladiators have sworn to destroy the party, and make it politically weak and irrelevant before the 2027 presidential election, which is why all stakeholders must fight for the soul of PDP with wisdom and uncommon political craft.

Touching on his academic dissertation titled; “Accessing the Public Relations credentials and performance of Presidential Spokespersons in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic,” Dr Latimore Oghenesivbe, disclosed that Dr Doyin Okukpe, UBA Sanni, Late Oluremi Oyo, Segun Adeniyi, Ima Niboro, Dr Rueben Abati, Femi Adesina and Ajuri Ngilale were captured extensively in the study.

He posited that the study assessed the public relations credentials of these presidential Spokespersons, examined previous roles held before their appointments, academic qualifications and professional certification, investigated how they utilized various communication channels to discharge their duties, assessed the public relations models employed to communicate federal government activities to the public, and also examined how public relations practitioners perceived the performance of Presidential Spokespersons in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

According to Dr Oghenesivbe, the dissertation supervised by renowned communication Scholar, Dr Unwana Samuel Akpan, of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, found out that Fourth Republic presidential spokespersons lack formal public relations qualifications and NIPR certification, with only late Oluremi Oyo, having a relevant background in Mass Communication.

The study revealed that Dr Rueben Abati and Femi Adesina employed media focus strategy aligning with the Press Agentry/Publicity model, while Late Oluremi Oyo, Ima Niboro and Segun Adeniyi followed the Public Information model to discharge their duties. Dr Okukpe relied heavily on traditional media, emphasizing controlled and less interactive communication forms. Ajuri Ngilale and Uba Sanni performed abysmally in the rating.

The study rated as “Fair” the performance of Presidential Spokespersons from 1999 to 2024, with no spokesperson receiving “Good” or “Excellent” rating. While they have successfully managed communication strategies and maintained the government’s public image, shortcomings in professional training, particularly in public relations, have limited their effectiveness in fostering meaningful public engagement and transparency.

“This indicates that while basic demands are met, there is room for improvement in strategic communication, public engagement and media relations to maintain and sustain government public image, effectively deploy the four public relations models.

“The study also recommended Press Agentry/Publicity, Public Information, Two-Way Asymmetrical and Two-Way Symmetrical models, and Mediatization in Politics Theory, while leveraging multifaceted advantages of social media to firm up performance.

“The study emphasized the need for Presidential Spokespersons to obtain formal public relations training and certification from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, so as to enhance their expertise and meet professional standards.

“Future presidential Spokespersons should balance traditional and digital media strategies by incorporating real-time social media engagement with controlled messaging through television, radio and newspapers for broader audience reach.

“Spokespersons should prioritize transparent communication models, such as the public information model, which was extensively used by late Oluremi Oyo, Ima Niboro and Segun Adeniyi, to provide factual and open communication with the public rather than focusing solely on managing government image

“The study also recommended that government communication teams should engage in more interactive public dialogue, through the use of two-way Assymetrical model, rather than relying exclusively on controlled media interactions to foster greater public trust and responsiveness.

“Spokespersons should adopt a strategic communication approach that integrates proactive public engagement, addressing both public concerns and government messaging in a more conversational and transparent manner.

“The study contributes to academic research by providing empirical evidence of the evolving media strategies employed by government Spokespersons in Nigeria. It offers fresh insights into how government communication adapts to changing media landscape.

“This shift, documented through the strategies of spokespersons like Dr Rueben Abati and Femi Adesina, enriches the body of knowledge on effective political communication and media evolution in governance.

“The study supports the NIPR’s mission to elevate professional standards in public relations practice by promoting the importance of ethical practices and formal training.

“By aligning it’s recommendations with NIPR’s objectives, the study reinforced the need for professional certification in public relations, and contributes to strengthening the credibility of Public Relations practices within Nigerian democratic governance.” Oghenesivbe said

Emmanuel Ogidi to Chair 2024 DOPF Lecture

Elder Emmanuel Ogidi, an esteemed expert in public relations and marketing, has been selected as Chairman of the forthcoming Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) 2024 lecture, slated for 20 November at Hotel Vienna, Asaba, Delta State.

Ogidi, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Economists of Nigeria (FCE), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (FNIPR) and the Nigerian Institute of Marketing, brings extensive experience in public service, political leadership, and security strategy to this prominent role.

The 2024 lecture, themed “Security Challenges: Finding a Local Implementable Solution,” is set to delve into actionable approaches for addressing Nigeria’s security issues, focusing on locally driven strategies.

This year’s keynote address will be delivered by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, who is expected to offer valuable insights into practical and sustainable security solutions.

Elder Ogidi’s career is marked by significant contributions to both public service and politics.

His previous roles include Chairman of the Delta State Land Use Allocation Committee, a Board Member of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and Special Adviser on Neighbourhood Watch as well as Chair of the Security Trust Fund.

He further served as the Delta State Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from 2005 to 2008, where he led the party to a landmark victory in the 2007 elections. He also held the role of PDP National Vice Chairman for the South-South Zone from 2016 to 2020, where he played a vital role in regional party leadership. Currently, he is a member of the PDP Reconciliation Committee, set up to settle some of the issues plaguing the party, since after the 2023 General Election.

He is well-regarded for his dedication to community development. His local involvement includes serving as National Chairman of the GKS Laity, demonstrating his commitment to both civic and religious engagement.

The sixth edition of the DOPF lecture series is expected to attract influential stakeholders from various sectors, including security, media, leadership, and community development. With Elder Ogidi at the helm, the 2024 DOPF lecture seeks to drive dialogue towards practical security solutions rooted in community collaboration, underscoring the importance of localised strategies in tackling pressing security challenges for Delta State and beyond.

Last year’s theme was, “Physical Policy And Taxation: Balancing Revenue Generation And Economic Growth.”, and it was delivered by renowned financial expert and philanthropist, Dr. Doris Amaka Ochei. The Founder and CEO of Doris Amaka Ochei Foundation. She holds two Bachelors of Science degrees in Accounting and Public Policy, Masters in Business Administration and Ph.D in Forensic Accounting. She is a Fellow in Accounting and a chartered Taxation practitioner.

Explain Your Interest in  Herbert Wigwe’s Estate, Court Orders Deceased’s Cousin

The interest of Christian Wigwe’s, Cousin to the estate of former group Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank, late Herbert Wigwe, has been questioned by the Court.

The Lagos State High Court Probate Registry has given a deadline to him to explain his interest in the estate of the late Herbert Wigwe.

In a document dated 21 October, 2024 the Lagos probate registry issued a legal notice giving the caveator, Christian Wigwe, eight-day ultimatum upon service to explain his interest in the estate of late Herbert Wigwe.

100 Days in Office: Oyibode Calls For More Investors As He Reels Out His Achievements

… Gifts Four Brand New Vehicle

The Chairman of Udu Local Government Area, the Council Chairman, Hon. Vincent Oyebode has called on investors to bring their investment to Udu particularly in the oil and gas sector, energy, agriculture, commerce and industry.

Oyebode gave the call during the celebration of his 100 days in office at the council secretariat in Otor- Udu, Delta State.

He said with the LG hosting OML 65 which is Abura field, OML 34, the Otorogun Gas Plant and the presence of abundant natural gas investors in the gas to power sector will find the Local Government as a veritable place for the investment that will improve the lives of the people massively.

While appealing to the Emadadaja community to shelve their grievance and the ultimatum to NNPC E & P Limited, (NEPL) over the proposed flow station, he also called on the management of NEPL to commence the construction of the flow station to assuage frail nerves and boost the economy of the area.

He appealed for the cooperation of all Udu sons, daughters and stakeholders to complement his administration’s policies and programmes for their general well being.

Speaking on his achievements, he said upon their inauguration on July 15,2024, his administration had worked on some failed portions of roads on the Udu/ ECN road by Ovwian Grammar School, John Jeff Cement Depot, Cross and Stop, Mofor on the DSC expressway and front of Daddy Bakery for ease of vehicular and pedestrian movements in Udu.

 

He accounted on how his administration has s performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of a new Executive Chairman’s office and personal assistant office, which he said would be completed and commissioned to mark his one year in office.

He said his 100 days in office has witnessed the promoting of peaceful coexistence and stability in Udu communities, rehabilitation of the council Secretariat, provided sound public address system and musical equipment to improve worship and service sessions of the council chapel.

Speaking on environmental sanity, he said a taskforce have been set up to help drive the vision of his administration towards a clean environment in Udu.

In fulfillment of his stewardship to the people of Udu Local Government Area, the Council boss, acquired four brand new vehicles to the Leader of the legislative Arm, the Head of Personnel Management, Secretary to the Local Government Council and the Treasurer of the Council.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of the vehicles to the beneficiaries, inspection of the new office complex under construction and presentation of gifts by groups in appreciation of his leadership role to the Chairman.

The event had the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP)Chairman, Hon David Siloko; the state Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Hon. Peter Uviejitobor and party faithful in attendance.

 

President Tinubu Reduces Cost Of Governance

By Ben-Whyte Iminabo

President Bola Tinubu has directed Ministers, Ministers of State, and Heads of Agencies of the Federal Government to a maximum of three vehicles in their official convoys.

The cost-cutting measure was announced today in a statement signed by the President.
He said no additional vehicles will be assigned to them for movement.
President Tinubu also ordered all ministers, ministers of state, and heads of agencies to have at most five security personnel attached to them, comprising of four police officers and one Department of State Services (DSS) officer.

President Tinubu instructed the National Security Adviser to engage with the Military, Paramilitary and Security Agencies to determine a suitable reduction in their vehicle and security personnel deployment.
It stated that all affected officials are expected to comply with these new measures immediately, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of these changes.

The, President had earlier in the year, taken significant steps to reduce government expenditure by reducing his entourage on foreign trips from 50 to 20 officials and 25 officials for local trips.

He also reduced the Vice President’s entourage to five officials on foreign trips and 15 for local trips.

Old Naira Notes Are Always Valid- CBN

By Faith Okafor

Following claims that the old series of N200, N500, and N1,000 banknotes would cease to be legal tender by December 31, 2024, the Central Bank of Nigeria has clarified that the banknotes will remain valid indefinitely.
This was made known in a press statement released by The acting Director of Corporate Communications, Sidi Hakama.

The CBN stated that the reports were false and intended to disrupt the nation’s payment system.

The statement read, the attention of the Central Bank of Nigeria has been drawn to discussions at different fora suggesting that the old series of the N200, N500, and N1,000 banknotes shall cease to be legal tender on December 31, 2024. We wish to state categorically that such claims are false and calculated to disrupt the country’s payment system.

It also stated that the Supreme Court of Nigeria had on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, had ordered that the prayer of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to extend the use of old Naira banknotes be granted.

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