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Africa For Peace Sports Festival N10m Naira For Grab, Sets November 15th As Opening Ceremonny

The Africa for Peace Sports Festival is set to kick off on November 15, to commemorate the 2025 International Day for Tolerance and marking the beginning of the 2nd edition

The event promises a diverse range of activities, including gym competition, scrabble, snooker, table tennis, and mini football.

Chess and Fuss-football will be demonstration games, with winning prizes for participants.

Former Nigeria Super Eagle International, Edema Fuludu has been appointed Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) by Ambassador Mulade Sheriff, Ph.D the festival’s initiator.

Fuludu expressed gratitude for the appointment and pledged to collaborate with the team to ensure the event’s success.

The mini football competition will have two categories: under 25-45 and 46 and above, with an emphasis on adhering strictly to the rules of the game.

With about Ten Million Naira (10,000,000.00) up for grabs with consolidation prizes, the Africa for Peace Sports Festival is poised to be an unforgettable experience as registration is now open for all interest participants

According to the Intiator and Chairman, Delta State Mini Football, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, the sport festival will create an opportunity for the Nigeria Mini Football Association scouting delegation to identify, attract and recruit talented players into the national team to represent Nigeria in forthcoming international events.

Kindly contact Ogo Clarkson, Secretary Mini Football, Delta State on 080-26797191 or 080-63417901 and 080-80403030.

65TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY: Oborevwori Urges Nigerians to Unite in Rebuilding Nation 

Oborevwori Urges Nigerians to Unite in Rebuilding Nation

…Says Nigeria Is God’s Own Country

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Sunday, called on Nigerians to embrace unity, justice, fairness, and equity as the foundation for building a greater and more prosperous country.

 

The governor made the call during an inter-denominational thanksgiving service to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba.

 

Oborevwori, who expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the nation since independence, said Nigeria’s survival despite daunting challenges was a proof of divine grace.

 

He said: “Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute to the Nigeria of our dreams. Independence was born out of a vision of hope and brightness for this country, and we must continue to build on the sacrifices of our founding fathers”.

 

He maintained that Nigeria remained a proud nation with much to be thankful for, adding that the country had withstood trials that could have led to disintegration but for God’s mercy and the resilience of its people.

 

The governor commended the role of the Church in sustaining national peace, noting that without the prayers of Christians and preaching of the gospel, the nation’s situation would have been worse.

 

He urged clerics to continue to pray for leaders while encouraging citizens to support government through unity and sacrifice.

 

“What we want in Delta State is peace, because development starts where peace abounds. When there is peace, we can do more for our people. Those of us in political leadership must always put the people’s interest first, not our own,” Oborevwori added.

 

Highlighting his administration’s achievements in infrastructure and social investments within two years, he assured Deltans that more development and empowerment initiatives would be delivered in the coming year under God’s guidance.

 

He also charged Nigerian youths to champion unity and righteousness, stressing that the future of the nation depended on their willingness to contribute positively.

 

“This country will not be rebuilt by foreigners. It is we, Nigerians, who will rebuild it. Let us make the necessary sacrifices for the brighter future that awaits us. Nigeria is God’s own country,” he said.

 

In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Issele-Uku Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Elue, urged Nigerians to embrace the “good fight of faith,” stressing the virtues of righteousness, godliness, love, endurance, and gentleness.

 

He called on the wealthy to remember the poor, noting that “what we share with our brothers and sisters is what will count for us when we appear before God on the day of judgment.”

 

The thanksgiving service was attended by top government functionaries, traditional rulers, political leaders, including the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Catherine Onyeme; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Julius Pondi, Hon. Ngozi Okolie, and Hon. Benedict Etanabene; the Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Tessy Diai; chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, among others.

Oborevwori Commiserates With ARISE News Over Murder Of Somtochukwu

…Urges Security Agencies To Unearth Killers

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has decried the brutal killing of ARISE News journalist, Miss Somtochukwu Maduagwu,  and expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the management of ARISE News, and the entire media community.

Somtochukwu was reportedly killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja on Monday.

Governor Oborevwori in a statement on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, expressed profound grief over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the management of ARISE News, and the entire media community.

Calling on security agencies to intensify investigations, the governor urged them to leave no stone unturned in tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.

“This cruel murder is a sad reminder of the dangers journalists face in the course of carrying out their constitutional duties.

“I urge security operatives to ensure that those behind this dastardly act are apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” Oborevwori stated.

The governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering support for the safety of journalists and the protection of press freedom, noting that the media remained a vital partner in strengthening democracy and accountability in Nigeria.

NDA POP: Oborevwori Congratulates 24 Newly Commissioned Delta Military Officers 

As Nigeria Airforce, Army commences DSS Enlistment, 90th Regular Recruits Intake

Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the newly commissioned military officers of Delta State origin, who were decorated with the ranks of lieutenants and flying officers at the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA), on Saturday, in Kaduna State.

 

The governor who was represented at the NDA passing out parade by the Commissioner for Youth Development, and Chairman of the State Awareness Creation Committee on Youth Enlistment into Military and Paramilitary services, Barrister ThankGod Trakiriowei Harry, said his administration remain committed to human capacity development and gainful employments for youth in the state.

 

He commended the young officers for their resilient, dedication and professional discipline throughout their academic pursuit and military training at the nation’s defence academy, adding that the state government is proud of their new status as special citizens ready to protect the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

 

Governor Oborevwori, presented special packages to the officers at the state dinner organized in their honour at Stonehedge Hotel Kaduna, on Saturday, urging them to serve the nation without blemish, and to make Delta proud at all times.

 

“On behalf of the good people of Delta State, I congratulate the newly commissioned 24 officers from Delta State. As a state, we have achieved so much within two years and five months of my administration. Your State (Delta) is now the 4th largest economy in Nigeria.

 

“Career in the military and paramilitary services is not only prestigious and financially rewarding, but offers several job opportunities that are in tandem with the human capacity development, job and wealth creation programmes encapsulated in the MORE Agenda of my administration.

 

“The state government under my watch will continue to encourage, and assist our youth to serve Nigeria, through military and paramilitary services. We urge Delta youth to embrace admissions into the Nigeria Defence Academy, the Nigeria Police Academy, Airforce and Navy Direct Short Service Commission.

 

“I want to passionately appeal to all eligible Delta youth to apply online in the ongoing enlistment into the Nigeria Airforce Direct Short Service, and the Nigeria Army 90th Regular Recruits intake with immediate effect,” the governor added.

 

In his vote of thanks on behalf of the newly commissioned Delta officers, Flying Officer PE Ejiviejor, thanked Governor Oborevwori for sending a powerful delegation from Delta State, to celebrate with them, and for hosting NDA 72 RC Delta to a dinner with a special package from the government.

 

The Air Force Flying Officer said governor Sheriff Oborevwori scored another first, as the first democratically elected governor of Delta State who openly identified with Cadets of Delta State origin by sending a delegation to the NDA POP to celebrate with newly commissioned officers from Delta State.

 

“This is the very first time our state government (Delta State) is sending a delegation to NDA passing out parade to celebrate her own. We are not going to take it for granted. We are overwhelmed with joy.

 

“We are proud of governor Oborevwori’s good governance in our state, resulting in the numerous Awards bestowed on him by various organisations.

 

“Delta is making tremendous progress. Many thanks to our Governor for inaugurating the State Awareness Creation Committee on Youth Enlistment into Military and Paramilitary services. Things are already looking up for Delta in the area of enlistment of youth into the military.

 

“We shall work very hard to serve our country, Nigeria, and to the best of our abilities, and to make Delta proud,” said.

 

The state delegation to NDA Course 72 Passing Out Parade include: the Commissioner for Youth Development, Barrister ThankGod Trakiriowei Harry, Director General, Delta State Bureau for Communications and Orientation, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe Esq, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Dr Ngozi Mogbolu, Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Political and Security Services, Mr. Theophilus Chukwudi Aguonye, State Representative of Christian Community, Rev Dr Cyril Okonye, Executive Secretary, Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, Chief Alfred Origbo, and Pastor Emmanuel Egodo of the State Directorate of Political and Security Services.

NIGERIA @65: A Nation Rising Beyond Challenges

NIGERIA @65: A Nation Rising Beyond Challenges

  • Sixty-five years after independence, Nigeria remains a work in progress. A story of resilience, promise, and determination. Ours is a nation that has survived turbulence, overcome setbacks, and yet continues to stand as Africa’s most powerful voice.

This year’s anniversary is more than a ritual commemoration. It is a call to renew our sense of duty to one another and to the generations ahead. The Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration deserves recognition for the strides already made: restoring macroeconomic stability, encouraging local production over reckless imports, investing in social interventions, and reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership on the continent. These are bold beginnings that must be sustained with consistency and urgency.

I particularly commend the words of Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 80th United Nations General Assembly. His call for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council, for sovereign debt relief, for fair access to trade and financing, for equity in resource ownership, and for closing the digital divide so that “AI means Africa Included” captures the very essence of Nigeria’s place in the world. These are not abstract declarations, they are the lived realities that define our struggle as a nation.

In the Senate, my motions and bills have been guided by these same convictions:

•That justice must be pursued, whether through reparations for historical wrongs or reconciliation for national tragedies.

•That dignity must be guaranteed, whether through attaining veto power at the UN security council, the establishment of a National Social Security Agency or by ensuring healthcare and education reforms that work for Nigerians at home.

•That sovereignty must be protected, whether by stopping crude oil theft, ending gas flaring, or reclaiming control over our mineral wealth.

•That opportunity must be created, whether through youth entrepreneurship, diaspora voting, indigenous participation in mining, or the expansion of our digital economy.

Nigeria at 65 must choose to lead, not as a country of wasted potential, but as a nation that transforms its wealth into wellbeing for its people. We must secure our communities, empower our youth, modernize our infrastructure, and build institutions that outlive individuals. We must insist that no Nigerian is left behind. Not the farmer in the village, nor the entrepreneur in the city, or the vulnerable in need of support.

Our journey is far from finished. But if we keep faith with one another, strengthen collaboration between the executive and legislature, and place people at the center of our policies, then this decade can be the turning point when Nigeria moves from survival to greatness.

Happy Independence Day, Nigeria.
As resilience meets hope, with courage we arise stronger.

*_Senator Ned Munir Nwoko*

Greg Ofili Greets Oshimili South Council Chairman On His Birthday

The Chief of Staff to Oshimili South Local Government Council, Mr Greg Ofili has extended Birthday wishes to the Council Chairman, Hon. Kelvin Ezenyili.

In his goodwill message to his boss, he described him as a visionary leader whose tiredless commitment had led to the growth and development of the Local Government.

He prayed God to continually endow Ezenyili with sound health, divine wisdom and grace to accomplish more for his people in Oshimili South

Hon. Leo Nkeaka, Ohamadike Hails Eko On His Birthday

Celebrating Hon. Chief Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Ph.D: An epitome of what Leadership represents; Which emphasizes on the social process of influencing and inspiring others to collectively achieve shared goals. It also involves guiding, motivating, and enabling people, often through strong interpersonal skills, clear vision, and strategic influence, to perform better than they could individually. He’s A Visionary Leader, Scholar, and Champion of Youth & Women Development.

Today, celebrating the Birthday of Hon. Chief Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Ph.D, Hon. Leo Nkeaka (Ohamadike 1)

Senior Special Assistant (Political) to the Executive Governor of Delta State, eulogies his humble dispositions, Leadership qualities, his being respectful to Leaders, and his Benevolence to Humanity.

On this auspicious occasion of the birthday of Hon. Chief Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Ph.D, I, Hon. Leo Nkeaka, popularly known as Ohamadike 1, Senior Special Assistant (Political) to the Executive Governor of Delta State, wish to formally commend and celebrate an outstanding personality, A consummate scholar, and a man whose rare blend of capacity, qualification, exposure, and wealth of experience has firmly positioned him for higher political responsibilities in the service of our dear State.

Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili’s Academic and Professional journey is a clear testament to his diligence, brilliance, and unyielding commitment to excellence. From his Educational background in Delta, Rivers States to abroad makes his remarkable undergraduate studies at the prestigious Igbinedion University where he graduated top of his class in Political Science and Public Administration in 2008 he has consistently demonstrated intellectual distinction.

Eko international exposure at the University of York and University of Manchester, United Kingdom, where he obtained dual Master’s degrees in Political Science and Public Administration and Governance and Public Policy, reflects a depth of global perspective uncommon among leaders at the grassroots. His doctoral achievement at Igbinedion University, Okada, further establishes him as a thoughtful leader and policy Strategist.

Beyond the walls of Academia, his experiences across Local and State Government ranging from his service in the Delta Broadcasting Service during NYSC, to his appointments as Supervisor for Special Duties and Agriculture, Special Assistant to the Governor, and Senior Special Assistant on Youth Monitoring have moulded him into a pragmatic administrator with a profound grasp of governance realities.

Eko has a special interest for Leadership on Youth and Women Development. One of the hallmarks of Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili’s leadership is his unflinching dedication to Youths and Women development.

As the Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Council, His tenure has been marked by deliberate and people-centered policies that creates opportunities for empowerment, skill acquisition, wealth creation and infrastructural development across the nooks and crannies of Oshimili South Local Government Area.

While serving under the Delta State Job and Wealth Creation Office, under the leadership of Prof. Eric Eboh, Dr. Ezenyili played pivotal roles in mentoring young people, guiding them toward productive ventures, and helping them break free from the cycle of unemployment. His deep involvement in the Directorate of Youth Monitoring and Mentoring, under the direction of Grandpa Edward Mekwunye, further highlights his Strategic contributions to shaping a generation of self-reliant youths.

As Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area, he has continued to build on these ideals by promoting inclusive governance, investing in capacity-building programs, and ensuring that both youths and women have access to resources that translate into sustainable livelihoods. These efforts have earned him the admiration of constituents and the recognition of stakeholders within and beyond Delta State.

Scholarly and Intellectual Contributions

Dr. Ezenyili is not only a politician but also a scholar and writer of repute. His publication “Democracy and Good Governance in Nigeria: A Survey of Indices of Transparency and Accountability” (UK Published), with a foreword by the distinguished Obi Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge (SAN), demonstrates his intellectual depth and commitment to advancing governance discourse. His research expertise in areas such as democracy, fiscal federalism, and policy analysis continues to influence his leadership style and vision for development.

Conclusion and Commendation

In summary, Hon. Chief Obi Kelvin Ezenyili, Ph.D embodies the qualities of a visionary leader, a grassroots mobilizer, and a patriotic son of Delta State. His remarkable academic attainments, coupled with his vast political exposure and practical governance experience, have uniquely prepared him for greater service. His passion for youth and women empowerment, skill acquisition, and inclusive development is a model worthy of emulation.

Let me at this point, On behalf of myself , my Office and my family heartily congratulate Dr. Obi Kelvin Ezenyili on the occasion of his Birthday 🎈🎂🎈. I commend his enduring service to humanity, Societies, Delta State and Nigeria at large. It is my firm belief that his current trajectory is only the foundation of the many heights he is destined to attain in the future.

My Prayers 🙏 for you today my Brother, as you celebrate your Birthday 🎈 🎂 is that the Lord God Almighty will continue to strengthen, protect, and grant you more Wisdom as he pilots the affairs of Leadership.

Congratulations 🎉 🎉 🎉 once again Sir 🙏.

My Name is Hon. Leo Nkeaka (Ohamadike 1)

Senior Special Assistant (Political) To the Executive Governor of Delta State.

DOPF Sets Agenda for 2025 Convention and Annual Lecture on Nigeria’s New Tax Law

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has announced its 2025 Convention and Annual Lecture, set to take place in Asaba, Delta State, from Wednesday, November 26 to Thursday, November 27, 2025. The two-day programme will open with the induction of new members and a capacity-building training session for members and media practitioners, while the second day will feature the Annual Lecture, themed “Nigeria’s New Tax Law: Implications and Opportunities for Businesses and Society.”

According to a statement signed by Abel Johngold and Josephine Idiovwan Omodior, Chairman and Secretary of the 2025 Planning Committee, this year’s theme reflects the impending implementation of Nigeria’s new tax legislation, which comes into effect on January 1, 2026. Nigeria’s tax framework has undergone significant evolution over the decades, from the Petroleum Profits Tax Act of 1959 and the Companies Income Tax Act of 1961 to the introduction of Value Added Tax in 1993. Each reform has sought to broaden the tax base and improve compliance, but the new law represents one of the most comprehensive reforms to date, aimed at simplifying the system, closing revenue leakages, and enhancing transparency in public finance.

The statement emphasized that the Convention and Annual Lecture will provide a platform for stakeholders to examine both the opportunities and challenges posed by the new law. Beyond its potential impact on businesses, the event is expected to spark discussions on how government can strengthen accountability, ensure fairness in taxation, and deploy revenues toward infrastructure and social development. The Forum noted that such dialogue is particularly timely given Nigeria’s urgent need to diversify revenue sources and fortify fiscal stability.

As is customary, the Annual Lecture will feature a keynote speaker with distinguished expertise in fiscal and economic policy, supported by a panel of discussants drawn from government agencies, professional bodies, civil society organizations, and the private sector. Their collective insights will provide practical guidance on implementing the new tax law effectively while balancing the interests of businesses and society.

Beyond the lecture itself, the Committee highlighted that this year’s Convention also underscores its commitment to professional development within the media sector. By integrating member induction, training, and the Annual Lecture, the Forum continues to foster knowledge sharing, informed debate, and capacity building, contributing both to the growth of media practitioners and to national discourse on one of Nigeria’s most significant fiscal policy reforms.

Signed

Abel JOHNGOLD
Chairman, DOPF 2025 Annual Convention/ Lecture Planning Committee

Josephine Idiovwan OMODIOR
Secretary, DOPF 2025 Annual Convention/ Lecture Planning Committee

ANIOMA STATE: Sen.Ned Nwoko Urges Continous Support From Ohaneze Ndi Igbo

Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North senatorial district at the National Assembly has called for continued support from Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, towards the creation of Anioma state.

 

Addressing the leadership and members of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo as chairman of World Igbo day celebration organized by the apex Igbo socio- cultural body held Monday, at Awka ,Anambra state, Senator Nwoko said the people of Anioma shared common heritage and language with Igbos in the south east.

 

Senator Ned Nwoko, represented at the occasion by Ogbueshi Godfrey Odogwu ,Director General of the technical committee on the agitation for the creation of Anioma state also urged unity ,peace and social harmony among the Igbos and Nigerians in general.

 

Giving the history of the quest for Anioma ,Senator Nwoko noted:

 

“ We have been agitating for our own State, Anioma State since 1954 when one of our most celebrated sons, the great nationalist and first premier of Midwest region, Sir Dennis Osadebay, submitted our request for the West Niger province (Anioma) to be carved out of the old Benin and Warri Provinces.

 

“ In the last seventy years since then, Anioma Igbo have not missed any opportunity to file a request for the creation of Anioma State, a request for self- determination and statehood to end decades of marginalization and injustice.

 

“ The actualization of the quest for the creation of Anioma State has remained a dream differed until I got elected as Senator in 2023. After wide consultations with our Anioma people, including our highly revered traditional rulers, professional bodies, youth and student associations, women groups and Anioma people living in the

diaspora, I sponsored a bill for the creation of Anioma State as the 37th State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 

“ This is intended to amend the long overdue balance in the Nigerian federal structure and also correct the decades of injustice against Ndigbo. The creation of Anioma State will also increase the political representation of Anioma people at the center and accelerate the speed of socio – economic and infrastructural development of Anioma”

 

Senator Nwoko expressed joy that the “ bill for the creation of Anioma State has since passed through the first and second readings in the Senate” and also witnessed the “ presentation of Memorandum at both the Senate and House of Representatives Public Hearings in Ikot Ekpene and Enugu last July”

 

He stated further that the Anioma state creation bill had received the support of over ninety Senators from all the zones in Nigeria, while the passage of the bill in third reading and the Referendum would follow.

 

“ Help Ndi Anioma Igbo to end this seventy-year old quest for the creation of Anioma State. Let us all rise with one voice to say we are proud to be Igbo, bonded in one destiny”

 

Senator Ned Nwoko commended the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbos and called for the sustenance in nation building.

 

“ I join you to celebrate igbo God given capacity for creativity, enterprise,wisdom ,dignity ,hard work and resilience. We are dream makers and great achievers.We have a sacred duty to promote law and order towards the manifestation of our destines and continued greatness of the Igbo world.

 

“ Ohaneze Ndi as our foremost and respected socio cultural body must lead in the crusade for peaceful co-existence in Igbo land and Nigeria in general.

 

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state and the President General of Ohaneze Ndi World wide,Senator John Azuta Mbata as well as different socio cultural groups across the five states of the South East and delegates from Anioma area.

Senator Ned Nwoko Joins Senate President Akpabio, Lawmakers at NDA 35th Convocation Ceremony In Kaduna

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, held the Passing Out Parade (POP) for cadets of the 72 Regular Course as part of activities marking its 35th Convocation Ceremony, on Saturday, September 27,

The colourful parade, which took place at the Academy Parade Ground, Afaka, was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, and other distinguished lawmakers.

Over 2,600 graduands had been honored earlier in the week during the convocation ceremony held on Thursday, September 25, which conferred academic degrees on 72 Regular Course cadet officers and 2,546 postgraduate students.

Saturday’s Passing Out Parade formally commissioned the cadets as officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, marking the culmination of years of rigorous academic and military training.

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