Home Blog Page 5

Oghenesivbe Extols Onoriode’s Leadership on Birthday

…Hails His Organizational Brilliance and Unwavering Commitment to Service

Director General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, has paid glowing tribute to the State Director of Protocol, Chief Sunday Onoriode, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as one of the stabilizing pillars of Delta State’s political architecture.

In a statement, Oghenesivbe said Onoriode’s over three decades in the political arena have been marked by discipline, strategic coordination and an uncommon ability to manage complex power dynamics with tact and precision.

Oghenesivbe noted that the Director of Protocol’s enduring relevance in the state’s political evolution is rooted in his exceptional organizational brilliance, loyalty to constituted authority and firm commitment to institutional order.

The Bureau Chief emphasized that Onoriode has remained a trusted confidant within government circles, playing a critical behind-the-scenes role in harmonizing political interests and ensuring seamless execution of high-level state engagements.

He further described him as a frontline ambassador of the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, whose steady hand in protocol administration has reinforced governance stability and strengthened stakeholder confidence across the state.

“Chief Onoriode represents the quiet strength of effective governance; disciplined, focused and unwavering in service,” Oghenesivbe stated.

He prayed that as the celebrant marks another year, he will continue to scale greater political heights, consolidate his legacy of service and enjoy enduring good health and longevity.

Oborevwori Greets Ex-Vanguard Editor, Mideno Bayagbon At 65

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has felicitated erstwhile Editor of Vanguard Newspapers and Publisher of The NewsGuru Online, Mr. Mideno Bayagbon, as he clocks 65 years on Saturday.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor described Bayagbon as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished journalists whose illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the media landscape.

Governor Oborevwori lauded the Jeddo-Okpe-born media icon for his outstanding contributions to the journalism profession, noting that his decades of dedicated service, editoria1l depth, and unwavering commitment to truth and ethical reporting have inspired generations of media practitioners across the country.

According to the Governor, Mr Mideno Bayagbon’s leadership in the newsroom helped shape public discourse and strengthened democratic values in Nigeria.

“Mr. Mideno Bayagbon is a shining example of integrity, resilience and excellence in the media profession. His life reflects discipline, hard work, patriotism and a deep passion for the progress of Delta State and Nigeria at large,” the statement read.

Governor Oborevwori further praised the Publisher of The NewsGuru Online for remaining relevant and impactful even after his distinguished career in mainstream print journalism, noting that his digital platform continues to promote responsible journalism, balanced reporting and informed public engagement.

He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the celebrant, wishing him sound health, renewed strength and many more years of fruitful service to the nation and humanity.

The Governor urged younger journalists to emulate Bayagbon’s sterling qualities, professionalism and steadfast commitment to the ethics of the profession.

Tinubu, Oborevwori Rally Support For Police As Biennial Police Games Open In Asaba

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed strong institutional and governmental backing for the Nigeria Police Force as the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA 2026) hosted by Delta State were formally declared opened in Asaba.

President Ahmed Bola Tinubu who was represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd.), described the Games as a strategic platform for building a professional, disciplined and performance driven Police Force, stressing that security remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s economic growth, social stability and national confidence.

“Service is not defined merely by authority or uniform, but by character, competence and conduct,” the President said, underscoring the Games’ theme, “Beyond the Badge: Excellence in Action.”

“A physically fit, mentally resilient and morally grounded Police Force is indispensable to national security”, he said.

Tinubu noted that sports go beyond recreation, calling them a strategic instrument for cohesion, stability and institutional readiness.

He added that the Police Games, rooted in a tradition dating back to the 1940s, have consistently promoted fitness, teamwork and community engagement while reinforcing operational preparedness across the Force.

Declaring the Games open, Tinubu urged athletes to compete with honour and sportsmanship, saying; “let fairness, discipline and mutual respect guide your conduct on and off the field. This is not a do-or-die affair.”

Earlier in his welcome address, Governor Oborevwori assured participants from across the federation of a memorable sporting fiesta in a state widely recognised as a hub of sporting excellence.

Oborevwori said; “Delta State is proud to host this prestigious national event. Our track record in hosting major competitions speaks for itself.

“In recent years, this very venue has hosted the 21st African Senior Athletics Championships in 2018, the National Sports Festival, and the National Youth Games in 2023, all held consecutively within the last few years. Even this year, Delta State continues to play host to major sporting events”.

The governor highlighted improved security in Delta, attributing the calm to effective collaboration among security agencies, and praised the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for its professionalism.

He reminded athletes that the Games celebrate strength, discipline, teamwork and excellence, adding that “not everyone will return home with a medal, but no one who gives their best is a loser”.

The governor also recalled the Force’s legacy of producing world-class athletes, including Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s first Olympic gold medallist, and challenged participants to break new records and lift Nigeria’s sporting profile.

The Chief host and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, in his remarks, described the Biennial Police Games as a critical pillar for strengthening professionalism, unity and operational readiness within the Nigeria Police Force.

He said the Games go beyond sports, stressing that “policing is not only about enforcement, but about endurance, agility, teamwork, resilience and strength of character.”

He noted that modern policing demands physical and mental fitness, declaring that “a fit officer is a safe officer, and a disciplined competitor is a disciplined professional.”

Commending Delta State for hosting the Games, he described Asaba as “a centre of organisation, hospitality and sporting excellence,” and praised the collaboration between the Police Force and the state government in promoting youth development and national unity.

Highpoint of the ceremony that was attended by top serving and retired police officers including retired Inspector General of Police, was an impressive march-past by contingents drawn from the 17 Zonal Commands of the Nigeria Police Force and the Force Headquarters, Abuja, the symbolic lighting of the Games torch, followed by athletes and officials formally subscribed their oaths of allegiance and fair play.

The ceremony was further enlivened by the arrival of the Games mascot and the hoisting of the Games flag, setting a vibrant tone for the commencement of the 15th Biennial Police Games, Asaba 2026.

BIPOGA 2026: Police Set to Showcase Best Talents as Over 6,000 Athletes Storm Asaba

The Chairman of the Force Sports Planning Committee, AIG Fom Pam Joseph, has said that the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA) is designed to provide yet another platform for the Nigeria Police Force to showcase its outstanding sportsmen and women.
Speaking at a press conference in Asaba, Delta State, AIG Joseph described the games as an opportunity not only for the police but for the entire country to display its finest athletic talents.
“It is an opportunity for the police to showcase its sportsmen and women. It is also an opportunity for the country to showcase its best, and we are hoping that this 15th BIPOGA Games will be the best of the best,” he said.
The week-long sporting fiesta, which kicked off on February 14, will run through February 21, with contingents expected to depart on February 22 after the closing ceremony.
According to him, extensive preparations have gone into ensuring a seamless event. These included conferences, mini-conferences, and multiple inspection visits to sporting facilities in Asaba. He noted that, with the cooperation of the Delta State Government, repairs were effected in some facilities and necessary equipment put in place to guarantee a successful sporting week.
He expressed appreciation to the Governor of Delta State for his contributions toward the success of the games, adding that the initiative also enjoys the full backing of the Inspector-General of Police.
“The Inspector-General of Police initiated it for us. He has given us a listening ear, financial support, advisory support, and material assistance to ensure that this 15th BIPOGA comes out the best,” he stated.
AIG Joseph disclosed that over 6,000 sporting contingents are participating in about 37 sporting events. He added that all commands are fully represented across the 17 zones, including the Force Headquarters team, following state, zonal, and inter-zonal eliminations.
Among the highlights of this year’s edition is the introduction of new sporting events such as mixed martial arts, alongside conventional games. While there is no strict age categorization, he explained that practical considerations apply.
“You wouldn’t expect a 55-year-old police officer to engage in mixed martial arts. However, we have a veterans’ category. It’s not as if we’ll put a 17-year-old and a 54-year-old in the same event,” he clarified.
He also revealed that some of the participating officers are already playing key roles in national and international competitions, while others are members of the Police Machine football team competing nationally. He noted that one of the core objectives of BIPOGA is to discover and nurture more talents capable of representing the country on bigger stages.
The chairman further emphasized that the games will attract dignitaries from across the country, including heads of security agencies, service chiefs, political leaders, and representatives from ministries, departments, and agencies. The President and Commander-in-Chief is also expected as Special Guest of Honour.
Beyond competition, AIG Joseph stressed that BIPOGA serves as an extension of community policing, helping to strengthen the relationship between the police and the public.
“Events like this bring the police closer to the people and the people closer to the police. The public should not see the police only in terms of arrests and carrying guns,” he said.
With finishing touches ongoing at the venues ahead of the opening ceremony, he expressed confidence that the 15th Biennial Police Games will live up to expectations and set a new standard for future editions.

Delta Police Notify Public of Shooting Event for BIPOGA Asaba 2026

The Delta State Police Command has alerted residents of Ogwashi-Uku and surrounding communities about the scheduled shooting event of the ongoing 15th Biennial Nigeria Police Games (BIPOGA Asaba 2026).
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CP Bright Edafe, tthe event will take place at the Base 31 Police Mobile Force Shooting Range along Kwale Road. The exercise is slated to run from Sunday, February 15 to Thursday, February 19, 2026, between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily.
The Command clarified that the activity will involve the controlled use of firearms strictly within the designated shooting range as part of the sporting events lined up for the police games. Authorities emphasized that all necessary safety and operational measures have been put in place to ensure the security of residents and participants.
Members of the public have been urged not to panic at the sound of gunfire during the period, as it will be part of the organized competition. Access to areas immediately surrounding the range will be temporarily restricted, and residents as well as road users are advised to adhere strictly to safety and traffic directives issued by security personnel.
The Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, assured the public of the Command’s commitment to professionalism and safety throughout the event. He appreciated residents for their understanding and cooperation.
For further enquiries, members of the public are advised to contact the Office of the Police Public Relations Officer on 09155570008.

TTBI Delta Celebrates Olorogun Sunday Onoriode at Birthday

Dame Princess Minnie Igbrude, PhD, Coordinator of the Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative (TTBI), Delta State Chapter, has felicitated with Olorogun Hon. Sunday Onoriode JP, D.O.P, on the occasion of his birthday.
In a goodwill message released on behalf of the TTBI Delta Chapter, Dame Igbrude described the celebrant as a dear brother, respected political leader, and loyal party faithful whose commitment to service continues to inspire many across the state.
She commended Olorogun Onoriode for his steadfast dedication, leadership strength, and unwavering loyalty to the party, noting that his contributions to grassroots development have fostered unity and strengthened confidence among the people.
According to her, his impact in leadership and service to humanity reflects a deep sense of responsibility and passion for community growth. She emphasized that his consistency and devotion remain a shining example to younger political actors and party faithful.
As he marks another glorious year, the TTBI Delta Chapter offered prayers for long life, divine wisdom, renewed strength, and overflowing prosperity. The message invoked blessings from the Scriptures, praying that the Almighty God bless and keep him, make His face shine upon him, and grant him peace. It further expressed hope that his new year would be crowned with goodness, abundance, sound health, and even greater accomplishments.
Dame Igbrude concluded by wishing Olorogun Hon. Sunday Onoriode a happy birthday and many happy returns in good health and prosperity, affirming that his continued leadership will remain impactful in advancing unity and development within the party and the wider community.

Valentine Message of Love, Unity and Service

In the spirit of love, compassion, and unity, Dame Princess Minnie Igbrude, PhD, Coordinator of the Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative (TTBI), Delta State Chapter, extends her warm Valentine greetings to all members of the Tinubu Torchbearers Initiative across Delta State and to the entire TTBI family nationwide.

She calls on all Torchbearers to imbibe the true essence of Agape love, selfless, sacrificial, and unifying, reminding us that genuine love fosters peace, strengthens unity, and promotes sustainable progress within our communities and our great nation.

Dame Princess Minnie Igbrude further encourages members to use this Valentine season as an opportunity to extend kindness and generosity to the less privileged, orphanages, and persons living with disabilities. According to her, leadership is not only about political structure but about compassionate service that uplifts humanity and reflects the values of justice, equity, and shared prosperity.

She also urges all members to rededicate themselves to the service of God Almighty and to continue standing firm in the principles of unity, loyalty, and purposeful leadership which the Initiative represents.

As we celebrate this season of love, may it renew our collective commitment to service, nation-building, and the advancement of our shared vision.

Oborevwori Felicitates Delta Speaker, Guwor on Emergence as Chairman, Conference of Speakers

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, on his emergence as Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria.

Guwor emerged at the General Meeting of the Conference held in Abuja, a development that places Delta State at the forefront of legislative leadership in the country and further strengthens inter-parliamentary collaboration among state assemblies.

Oborevwori in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described Guwor’s emergence as well-deserved, noting that it reflects his legislative experience, leadership qualities, and commitment to democratic governance.

The governor, who himself once served as Treasurer and Deputy Chairman of the Speakers’ Forum during his tenure as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, said the Conference of Speakers occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s democratic architecture, particularly in promoting cooperation among state legislatures and advancing good governance.

According to Oborevwori, Guwor’s emergence as chairman of the Conference is not only a personal achievement but also a recognition of the maturity, stability, and progressive outlook of the Delta State legislature.

He expressed confidence that Guwor would bring wisdom, inclusiveness, and a reform-driven approach to the leadership of the Conference, fostering stronger synergy between state assemblies and other arms of government in the interest of national development.

Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor’s emergence as Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria is widely seen as a significant boost to Delta State’s profile in national legislative affairs and a testament to the state’s growing influence in shaping democratic governance across the federation.

Kwara Communities Thrown Into Panic, As Suspected Terrorist Group Sends Threat Letter, Vows To Strike ‘Anytime Soon’

Residents of Ira, Inaja and Aho communities in Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State has been overwhelmed with fear, following a recent threat letter allegedly dropped at Ira market area, warning of an impending terrorist attack.

According to sources familiar with the situation, the authors of the letter identified themselves as “NTA (Nigeria Terrorist Association)” and claimed they had moved from Kaiama Local Government Area to Oyun, declaring their intention to strike the communities “anytime soon.”

The content of the letter seen by sources reads in part: “No Town, or place That is scared us to destroyed. We search and gathered information before we raided.”

The group further taunted the residents, writing: “We heard about this town IRA ‘You people strong, and have many Powerful men to face Our Organisation.’”

 “Be ready for us at any time, any date. noting Concern about your Oracle or us powerful We left Kaiama LG, we move to Ira, Inaja and Aho and town surrounded”, it reads.

Ira is a border town adjoining Ilemona, with Inaja and Aho located westwards along the same corridor, a community increasingly viewed as vulnerable due to forest routes linking parts of Kwara to neighbouring states.

Military sources disclosed that the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operation Base in Ilemona has intensified patrols across the threatened communities, working alongside other security personnel to prevent any infiltration.

“The information has geared all the security agencies into series of operational preparedness and way forward meeting with local government authority,” a source said, adding that residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.

This is coming shortly after the recent massacre in Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area, where at least 162 people were reportedly slaughtered by suspected terrorists linked to Jama’atu Ahlissunnah Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), commonly known as Boko Haram.

The Woro attack led to to the killing of the two wives of the Emir of Woro, several of his children, the Chief Imam, a school principal, a headmistress and returning students. The Emir, Alhaji Saliu Bio Umar, managed to escape after fleeing the scene.

NIMC Begins Delta Ward-to-Ward NIN Registration Exercise Across 25 LGAs February 16

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) will commence a ward-to-ward National Identity Number (NIN) registration exercise across the 25 Local Government Areas of Delta State beginning Monday, February 16, 2026.

The exercise follows a directive by the Federal Government mandating NIMC to ensure that all eligible residents are given the opportunity to register for their NIN without delay. The registration exercise will run from February 16 to March 30, 2026, and will take place daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Esq., disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday. He said the state government strongly encourages residents aged zero and above who have yet to register to take advantage of the opportunity.

Dr. Oghenesivbe emphasized the importance of enrolling all citizens and residents in the NIMC National Identity Number programme, noting that the NIN has become a mandatory requirement for accessing banking and telecommunications services, participating in government empowerment programmes, processing travel documents, and conducting various official and financial transactions.

He assured residents that registration centres would be located at designated Town Halls in every ward across Delta State to ensure ease of access and convenience.

The State Government urged residents who have not yet enrolled to participate actively in the exercise, which is free of charge and open to all, including newborn babies, children, and adults.

Residents are advised to visit their designated Ward Town Hall registration centres within the stipulated period to obtain their National Identity Number.

MOST READ

LATEST STORIES