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Nigeria Fail Again To Defeat Egypt In Final Of African Hockey5s Qualifiers

Ossy Ugwu

Nigeria’s Men’s Senior National Hockey Team has failed to avenge Tuesday’s loss to Egypt at the inaugural International Hockey Federation IHF, Hockey5s, African World Cup qualifiers holding in the Egyptian Port City of Ismailia

The Nigerian team fell to a 9-2 defeat to the continent’s powerhouse in the finals played on Thursday.

Despite the loss, Nigeria still grabbed the second qualification spot in the men’s category, behind champions Egypt, followed by Kenya who defeated Zambia 5-2 to displace the South Africans and complete the list of African countries heading to the inaugural Hockey5s World Cup in Oman in 2024.

The Nigerian team started the journey to qualification on Sunday in blazing form, defeating South Africa 5-4 in the opening fixture and also picked a 4-2 victory over Kenya, before playing out a 4-4 draw with Zambia on Tuesday.

The team suffered their first defeat against Egypt in the last game of the evening on Tuesday

Enugu State Gov. Flags Off Dec. 2022 Main Pilgrimage Exercise To Israel/Jordan

The Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has flagged off the 2022 Christian Pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan on Friday, December 16, 2022 in Enugu.

Addressing the intending pilgrims during the orientation programme organized by the Mobilization Department of  the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission and the Enugu State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, the Governor thanked the leadership of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission for choosing the state for the inaugural airlift of  the December 2022 pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan.

He pointed out that his administration has been consistent in the sponsorship of Christian pilgrims to the Holy land.

According to him, “every year Christians in our state are sponsored on pilgrimage irrespective of their denominations”. He added,” today, 300 pilgrims would be airlifted to Israel and Jordan “.

Governor Ugwuanyi tasked the intending pilgrims on zero abscondment during pilgrimage.

He urged them to exhibit high sense of decency and decorum while in the Holy land.

He further charged them to ensure they pray for God’s intervention in the affairs of Nigeria and for smooth transition of a  new Government in Nigeria in 2023.

Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev Dr Yakubu Pam stated that Enugu had  made history for being the first to be airlifted in the year’s December pilgrimage.

The NCPC helmsman commended the Governor for his dedication of faith for his people.

He lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for approving the commencement of the Pilgrimage and for his continued support for Christian Pilgrimage in Nigeria.

In the same vein, the NCPC boss also applauded the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha for his support and guidance.

Rev Pam hinted that the year’s December pilgrimage exercise was mainly the states affairs.

He admonished the intending pilgrims not to think of absconding in the holy land . His words,” I want all of you to come back safely the way you went”.

NECHAMA NGO Brings Solace To The Widows, Others

…As CEO Recieves Commendation

By Sandra Agenu

Many, from the way they express concern for others, especially for the less privileged in the society, would have loved to be extending the milk of human kindness in them but for the simple fact that they have not the means.

Those who have the means complimented with the feeling for the less privileged, show it no matter how little, and not minding that they have not fully made it.

To the latter group of human is what the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mrs. Isioma Catherine Itekena Tamunokuro who is also a Special Assistant to the governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on Youth Mobilization, belongs.

She believes in giving out to the less privileged no matter the little she has, and will be left with her thereafter.

Her NGO formed in 2020, has started making waves and lives according to its motto which is providing solace and comfort, the main reason for forming it, to shower solace, comfort and happiness among the aged, from 60 and above, because according to her, ‘’age 50 and below are still able-bodied and can cater for themselves. Nechama also takes care of the youths as we believe they are future leaders of tomorrow.’’

On where her NGO has been able to touch since forming it, she says: “We get in touch with ward chairmen of political parties from different local governments areas. The most recent recipients from my NGO was wards 5 and 7 where rice, beans, oil, other condiments were given out to more than 60 persons and still counting among them were men and women, widows, the aged who were all carefully selected.’’

A prominent Obi in Asaba, Obi Micheal Odiaka spoke at the event while Obi Amuwa Sunday was present at the occasion that attracted many people in both wards in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Isioma Catherine Itekena Tamunokuro, says her NGO hopes to carry its functions beyond Oshimili to other parts of Delta State to enlarge the number of its beneficiaries.

The NGO has many members and still hope to widen its scope by bringing in more members after the elections.

She was full of appreciation for her boss, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for giving her the opportunity to serve her people as SA on Youth Mobilization. Her appreciation also goes to the Permanent Secretary, Government House, Asaba, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje, whom she described as a father and a mentor, also to her husband for supporting her project which she is using to reach out to people. In her list of those appreciated is Ambassador Uyero Erarawewho Junior for his support also.  

National Sports Festival Victory, Justifies Delta Huge Investment In Sports – Ned Nwoko

…Congratulates Okowa,  Team Delta Champions.

The Founder of SPORTS UNIVERSITY, Idumuje -Ugboko, Hon.Prince Ned Nwoko has  congratulated Delta state for winning the 21st National Sports festival, held at Asaba, the state capital and noted that the victory justified the state’s huge investment in sports.

In a congratulatory message, issued at his Idumuje -Ugboko country home, Prince Ned Nwoko, said the performance of Delta was outstanding with 320 gold, 200 silver and 228 bronze medals.

He said Delta had proved its matchless excellence as the number one in Sports among the 36 states and Federal capital Territory, having won various  Sports competitions  at local and international levels.

He commended governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his rare ingenuity and foresight in making the state the hub of sporting activities in Nigeria.

Prince Nwoko who is the Delta North senatorial candidate of the PDP for the 2023 elections noted that sports development formed one of the most significant human empowerment, with its values of self actualisation, enhancement of health, wealth creation , peace and unity among people.

He  noted with joy that the superlative strides of the state in Sports , aligned with the vision of SPORTS University, dedicated to the grooming of male and female sporting talents that would rise to national and global champions.

He expressed optimism that the institution, reputed as the first Sports university in Sub Saharan Africa would partner with the  state government in developing youngsters that would lead the Nation in Sports.

According to Nwoko: “ Sports is a thriving enterprise in Delta. The sterling performance of the state in national sporting competitions had been quite remarkable, especially under the Okowa administration. The state has consecutively won the   national  sports festival. It has also excelled, hosting and winning other sports events, both at local and international levels.

“ Okowa built bridges, roads, hospitals , schools and markets even without making noise or  fanfare. Yet Delta under his tenure , has accomplished so much in Sports far ahead of other states.

“ I am delighted about the sporting feat recorded so far by Delta because I am passionate about sports. The development of individuals with sound mind and body is the idea of Sports university. There is no development more rewarding and enduring than human capital investment through sports.

“ I heartily congratulate team Delta for emerging champions at the national sports festival. It is a great win for all Deltans as sports lovers”, Ned Nwoko stated.

Okowa’s EA Media, Chiazor, Rallies Voters For PDP Candidates

*Mobilizes Idumuje- Unor Youths

By Patrick Ochei

The Executive Assistant to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Media and former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Norbert Chiazor has commenced canvassing votes for the candidates of the PDP ahead of the 2023 general elections.

The cerebral Media Aide of the Delta State Governor, was at his home town, Idumuje-Unor in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, on Saturday 10th December, 2022, where he addressed over 500 youths of the community in a memorable interactive session.

Chiazor, former Deputy General Manager and Head of News, Delta Broadcasting Service, DBS Warri, said he had networked various administrations of Government for over three decades of public service and noted that Idumuje unor had been on the front roll of history as regards peace and self-driven community development.

While giving the historical behaviour of the people of Idumuje-Unor, Chiazor said that an average Idumuje person symbolized integrity, honour, contentment and self worth, adding that such has always shown in the enterprising manner the people initiated projects.

He advised the youths on the importance of approaching the 2023 General Elections with one voice and full support for an organized and well structured political party like the PDP.

As a professional in politics, he also counseled them to support the PDP 5/5 as a party that had demonstrated sincerity in the affairs of the community.

His words: “Governor Okowa has done excellently well constructing the Idumuje unor- Idumuje Ugboko road which had existed as a narrow earth road for centuries. He has also made salutary efforts in school renovation among other positive interventions in Idumuje unor. A couple of Idumuje indigenes have been empowered with political appointments.
We certainly need more from the system; from the federal to the state levels.

“While Atiku and Okowa will be at the presidency rescuing Nigeria, Sheriff Oborovwori will be here doing MORE for Deltans. And the best of leadership is closer to us with Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko, illustrious Idumuje son in the Senate and other PDP candidates across our communities.

“We have a proud heritage; We had a king of blessed memory, who was the longest reigning monarch in Africa and second in the world. The reign of our current Obi, a God-fearing, intelligent and progressive King, has brought unprecedented development to the kingdom. Yet we have lagged behind in terms of political relevance among communities.

“We must change the narrative as a people. I am not vying for any political position. However, I am here because I am your brother and as someone that has fair knowledge of power and politics, I am convinced and confident that the PDP would win at all levels; and as such, would not want you to be in the opposition. Happily, Idumuje clan as a whole ranked among Anioma areas that had voted massively for the party since 1999. We must continue the good winning streak.

“Things will no longer be the same again. Believe me as your brother who is very close to these people, I will alongside other leaders of thought, ensure that we are not left out but benefit much, collectively as a people. I am particular about employment of our young graduates, skills development and social infrastructure for our community.

“I most warmly appreciate you for your prayers and going forward, we shall work together to achieve the necessary progress you desire as youths”, Chiazor posited.

Earlier in acknowledging his presence, the Idumuje-Unor Youth President, Mr. Hilary Ikechukwu had eulogized Comrade Chiazor as a man widely read and known for his outstanding contributions to the Nigerian media industry.

He affirmed that Idumuje-Unor is proud of him and in particular the youths who see him as a role model.

In addition, he said, “Because we hold you in high esteem, whatever you tell us we will believe and work with. Though we have had some failed promises in midst of much achievements, we need leaders who are experienced and widely connected to guide us and assist in making our collective desires realizable”, the youth leader submitted.

Moreover, several youths who spoke at the meeting attended by the councilor representing the community, Hon.Udoji
Azonuche and PDP youth leader, Felix Udoka Bardi, made germane observations, suggestions and appeals, aimed at the advancement of Idumuje community.

2023 GENERAL ELECTION: Interest Of Northern Christians, Unity Of The North –Rev Pam

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN 19th Northern states and FCT , Rev Dr Yakubu Pam has said that the interest of the Northern Christians as far as the 2023 general election is concerned is nothing but the unity of the North in particular and by implication Nigeria as a whole.

He disclosed this on 15th December, 2022 during a three day Prayer Summit organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN 19 Northern states and FCT. held at the Catholic Social Centre , Kaduna.

He further explained,”  the unity which guarantees inter- faith harmony and peaceful co-existence should be the pride of the north regardless of our political leanings and affiliations “.

The CAN Chairman 19  Northern states and FCT commended the leading presidential candidates for traversing the length and breathe of the country canvassing for votes from the electorates.

He urged all of them to set their eyes on the ball by being focus and should not be distracted. He added,” they should strive to address the issues of the economy and proffer solutions; they should shun campaign of calumny and character assassination of their opponents”

Rev Pam cautioned that the Presidential candidates should not see the 2023 general election as a do or die affair, because power only comes from God

The number one CAN leader in Northern Nigeria and FCT admonishes religious leaders to stand firm in the face of intimidation in this era of electioneering process.

Rev Pam further affirmed,” We should be able to speak truth to power no matter the circumstances we find ourselves because everyone we mislead, we must answer for it someday,” he said.

Some of the presidential candidates are billed to address the CAN officials on their manifestos and blueprint for the Christians in the North.

One of the highlights of the Prayer Summit was the presentation of awards to some deserving Christian leaders in the country who have contributed immensely to humanity. Prominent among the awardees is the former Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Engr Andrew Yakubu.

The CAN Prayer Summit was attended by the Chairmen and Secretaries of the 19 Northern states including FCT.

NCPC Boss Tasks Staff On Commitment To Duty, Says Dec. Pilgrimage Exercise Begins Soon

The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Rev Dr Yakubu Pam has charged the Management and staff of the Commission to be committed to their duty.

He gave the charge on 9th December, 2022 during a strategic meeting with all the Management and staff of the Commission, held at the  Commission,s Chapel, NCPC Corporate headquarters, Abuja.

In his exhortation taken from Luke,s Gospel, chapter 8 verses 22 to 25, where Jesus asked his disciples to go to the other side of the Lake and as they set out sailing there was a storm.

He explained that going to the other side of the Lake as demanded by Jesus Christ meant there was a goal to accomplish. Therefore he admonished the staff to always ensure they have a goal to pursue in life which would enable them to be able to add value to the system.

He maintained that there is usually storm in the life of everyone and in the life of an organization. He averred that the important thing in such situation is the ability to overcome which would be possible through the grace of God.

He reiterated that even in the midst of the storm one should be focused and not distracted, because according to him” there would certainly be light at the end of any dark tunnel”.

He urged the staff to shun every internal politics within the Commission and concentrate on their job.

The NCPC helmsman further tasked the Commission staff on the need to maintain high level of discipline, especially punctuality to work and loyalty to constituted authorities.

Rev Pam disclosed that the  challenges facing the Commission in recent time would be surmounted , especially the issue of funding which is not peculiar to the Commission alone.

He further hinted that the Commission was working towards the commencement of the 2022 December Main pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan. He assured that the date for the commencement would soon be fixed. He further explained that the December pilgrimage would be mainly states pilgrimage affairs, whose intending pilgrims had successfully been screened and had paid their money for the exercise.

The strategic meeting was attended by all the Management and staff of the Commission at the headquarters. The NCPC boss  meets with the staff in order to keep them abreast with current happenings in the Commission. 

Go, Collect Your PVC, INEC Press Corps Tells Deltans

Leadership of INEC Press Corps, IPC, Wednesday implored Deltans to come out en-masse to collect their permanent voters’ cards. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released PVCs for Nigerians who took part in the 2022 registration.

Chairman of IPC, Olorogun Festus Ahon in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the group, Mr Austin Oyinbode, which was made available to Journalists in Delta, said for Nigerians to achieve the desired change, every registered voter must go to the local government and wards to collect the PVC.

Ahon in the statement said: “There have been series of million man Marches and campaigns in progress. Many are expressing their views on the need for change in Nigeria. But this change will only come to fruition if registered voters collect their PVCs and cast their votes on election days.

“INEC has scheduled election for February 25, 2023 for Presidency and National Assembly and March 11 for Governorship and state Assemblies. For Nigerians to get the right persons into political offices, registered voters must collect their PVCs and vote.”

The statement also noted that politicians and political party leaders should encourage their members and supporters to go out and collect their PVCs, because without the collection of the PVCs and voting, the desired change will remain an illusion.

To this end, the IPC Chairman called on all Deltans and Nigerians in general to wake up and see collection of PVCs as the beginning of change in Nigeria.

Ahon said that though everyone is busy with business ventures, “They should all endeavour to create time out of their busy schedules and go to the INEC local government offices and collect their PVCs.

He also pleaded with INEC staff at the local government and ward levels to assist the people in whatever ways they can so that everyone will collect their PVCs without stress.

The Delta INEC REC, Revd. Monday Udoh Tom, had expressed dissatisfaction with the response of the people of Delta and the political parties towards collection of the permanent voters’ cards in the state.

In a recent stakeholders meeting organized by INEC, the REC lamented poor response of Deltans and the leadership of political parties to attendance to meetings with INEC and collection of PVCs.

He said despite the fact that INEC staff are doing a thankless job across the state, the people of Delta state are not coming forth to collect their PVCs. He said that more than 300,000 PVCs are lying at the INEC offices across the state waiting for their owners to collect them.

Fight Against Human Trafficking, Irregular Migration: Bozimo Calls For Partnership With NGOs

By Onoriode Etatsemi

Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Isaiah Bozimo Esq has underscored the importance of partnership with Non-governmental Organisations in the fight against Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration in the state.

Mr. Bozimo stated this in his office in Asaba when the Girl Power Initiative, a Non-governmental Organisation from Benin City led by the Coordinator, May Ekido paid him a courtesy call.

He said that such collaboration would yield positive results, adding that Delta State Government was committed in tackling the menace.

Mr. Bozimo said that in demonstration of the resolve to reduce cases of human trafficking and irregular migration in the state, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa established the Delta State Taskforce on Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration which he , the Attorney-General chairs.

The Attorney-General assured the organisation that his Ministry would appoint a Desk Officer who would be working with the organisation from April. 2023 when it would commence its activities in Delta State.

Mr. Bozimo urged the Initiative to extend their awareness campaign on human trafficking to other vulnerable communities in Local Government Areas such as Ughelli North and Ethiope West apart from Ika axis where there was increase in human trafficking and irregular migration.

Earlier, the Coordinator of GPI , Mrs May Ekido Said the organization is a feminist youth development Non-governmental organisation founded in 1994 to empower young children and females with accurate information and skills from a gender perspective, safe reliance and social action having its offices in Benin city, Uyo, Asaba, Calabar and Kubwa FCT.

She stated that GPI had been intervening on other issues that affected the girl child and women since 2012 , adding that Ministry of Justice was strategic in the fight against human trafficking.

Mrs Ekido hinted that the Initiative would embark on town halll meetings with various stakeholders to discuss and dialogue on issues of human trafficking, saying that there was a new trend on human trafficking.

She noted that GPI would carry out its activities in selected endemic communities where human trafficking and irregular migration were prevalent.

Inneh Of Owa Kingdom Appointed As Eminent Intl Peace Ambassador

In sustaining peace and nation building in the society, the Inneh of Owa Kingdom, Chief Engr. Chukwuemeka Nkenchor Okwuokennye (JP) has promised to uphold peace advocacy in his community and support government in peace building.

Chief Nkenchor made this known while speaking with our reporter during his investiture as an eminent peace advocate by the International Association of World Peace Associates (IAWPA) in Asaba, Delta State.


He said the appointment given to him by the body to propagate peace, would spur him to do greater than he had done in previous times.


The Inneh of Owa kingdom and also the founder of Calvary Polytechnic said the confidence reposed on him by the United Nation affiliated organization would not be taken for granted, adding that he would continually encourage peace in his local environment.


He added that it would also prompt him to do more in the area of peace, nation building, supporting the government and also the less privileged, orphans and widows all over the world.


Expressing joy, the Eleme of Owa kingdom, Chief Lawrence Okompu said the appointment given to the Inneh was a well deserved one, adding that he was a noble and an illustrious son of Owa kingdom.


Chief Okompu said that he had no doubt that Chief Nkenchor’s giant stride contribution, was what led to his appointment.


On the same vein, the Adolor of Owa kingdom, Chief Sylvester Egbai, said he was optimistic that the worthy son of Owa, would do well in promoting peace.


On his part, Prince Emmanuel Efeziomor said it was a commendable one, which was as a result of his good records in the society that the organisers must have seen and given him this award by the international association of World peace advocate.


Inneh has been a very hard-working man and he has actually cut some respect for himself particularly in the areas of business and entrepreneurship endeavors and also in his activities in the palace he has been able to showcase his capabilities and I am not that surprised that he was able to get this award today.

Earlier the International Director of IAWPA, Archbishop Professor Chidi Ehiriodo urged beneficiaries not to use the title for fraudulent activities, but for the purpose of peace building in the society.

In his speech, the Chairman of the occasion, Amb. Mbat Akpan said that in bringing back peace, Nigeria needs to practise the rule of law, declare state of emergency on education and encourage good family upbringing and nation building.

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