New PGPA Boss, Odueselu revealed as Chevron organises Media Capacity workshop for Journalists

Chevron Nigeria Limited has revealed its new General Manager in Policy, Government and Public Affairs, PGPA, Mr. Olusoga Odueselu.

This much was unveiled Thursday September 12, 2024 at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun FUPRE in Delta State, during a one day Media capacity building programme for journalists in Warri organised by Chevron Nigeria Limited in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Warri Correspondents’ Chapel.

The Chevron Nigeria Limited, CNL, PGPA Boss, Mr. Olusoga Odueselu, restated the company’s resolve to continually develop human capacity and support the media towards enhancement of professionalism.

The programme, had in attendance journalists from across different media organizations, including Fresh Angle International Newspaper.

Olusoga lauded the role of journalists in reporting the oil and gas industry and how they provide effective perspectives to the complexities of the industry operations.

Olusoga, who was represented by a Communication representative of Chevron Nigeria Limited, Mr. Akinbola Saheed Praise, highlighted some of Chevron’s commitment to developing the media to include the following; “training of over 120 journalists in Advanced Writing and Reporting Skills (AWARES) in collaboration with the Pan Atlantic University, Lagos.”

“Training of over 90 journalists from across the country in Lagos, Abuja and Delta for better performance in their duties, bringing the total to over 300 journalists, who have participated in the capacity building programmmes, he said.

He added that Chevron will continue to partner the media for the development of the society.

“Aside from supporting Nigerian content development by providing employment opportunities to Nigerians and offering contract opportunities in all their projects, CNL also supports the sustainable development of the communities in which they operate.

“Through the Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU), a community-led participatory partnership model, CNL has contributed billions of naira to the Regional Development Committees (RDCs) that represent the communities in its area of operations to execute hundreds of projects in the communities through a governance model that ensures transparency and accountability,” he explained.

Earlier in his opening remarks, Chairman of NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Okies Okpomor, commended the partnership with Chevron, and emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving media landscape.

Okies noted: “We are living in a time that there are dynamics in everything, we have to learn new ropes in reporting, especially on issues pertaining to PIA (Petroleum Industry Act) and other relevant issues in the oil industry.”

The Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, FUPRE, Prof. Akpoture Rim-Rukeh, lectured participants on “Environmental Degradation in the Niger Delta: Responsibilities of the Mass Media in the 21st century”.

He highlighted the roles of Mass media, to include, education, catalyst for environmental conservation, conveying of complex scientific information to the public as well as advocacy for policy reform and revolutionized environmental activism.

Another facilitator, Associate Prof. Majority OJ, Head of Department of Mass Communication, Delta State University, DELSU, Abraka, trained journalists on “Repositioning the Media for Effective and Efficient Reportage of the IOCs and Host Communities.”

He noted the focus of the media for effective reporting to include: Comprehensive knowledge of the oil and gas sector, Knowledge of the Environment and Impact assessment, Stakeholder-engagement and community development and knowledge of Peace Journalism as well as conflict resolution.

Meanwhile, Dr. (Mrs.) F. O. Atubi of the Department of Social Science Education, Delta State University, DELSU, lectured the participants on “Host Communities: Social Responsibilities of the Mass Media in the post GMoU era.”

She pointed out the responsibilities of media in post GMoU as, Providing Credible Information on the GMoU , To Promote Transparency and Accountability, Facilitating Discussions and Provision of Education.

According to her, the responsibilities also entail providing Resolution to Conflicts and Building Peace, creating Environmental Impact Awareness, Empowering Civic Participation and Advocating for Sustainable Development (SD).

The highly interactive training, included questions and answers’ session. Participants were awarded certificates upon completion of the programme.

NYG Asaba 2024: Mustapha Ridwanullahi Wins First Medal For Team Kwara

By: Michael Odetunde 

Mustapha Ridwanullahi won team Kwara first medal at the ongoing 8th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State at the Para table tennis – Boys Singles.

The events was held at the indoor sports hall of Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba on Thursday.

Ridwanullahi showed his superiority over his opponent Nwaturucha Triumph from Imo state in the quarter-finals match 3-0 in 11-0 11-3 11-1.

However, he lost the semi-final to Akachukwu Ima from Delta State 2-3 with 5-11, 11-6, 9-11, 11-8, 9-11 in a keenly contested game.

In the round of 32 girls category, Idris Ashiata lost to Samson Precious from Abia State 1-2 with 2-11, 11-6, 10-12.

Also in the round of 16 girls category, Aisha Ahmed lost to Nigeria number 1 Aisha Rabiu from Lagos 1-2 with 7-11, 11-8, 8-11 in a closely contested game.

Hauwa Seidu qualified to the round of 16 after she defeated Elizabeth Ndukwe from Abia State 2-1 with 11-8 7-11 11-6.

The Head coach of Kwara table tennis team, Coach Kehinde Aiyelabegan applauded the players for showing of bravery to competing with their counterparts in the events.

Aiyelabegan also shared his confidence that the state will claim another medal apart from the bronze won by Mustapha Ridwanullahi.

Actions continue tomorrow Friday at the indoor sports hall of Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State.

Hardship: FG’s Renewed Hope Initiative doles out N10 million to 40 female farmers

**As Tinubu, Oborevwori give 1,200 households food palliatives in Delta

A total of 40 female farmers across Delta State, Thursday, received grants worth N10 Milion to boost their agro businesses, while 1,200 indigent households received food items from the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori.

The disbursement of the funds and distribution of household consumables which was sponsored by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of Senator Tinubu, in collaboration with the ‘You Matter Charity Foundation’ of Deaconess Oborevwori, is targeted at mitigating the hardship currently being faced by citizens.

Speaking during the presentation at the Events Centre, Asaba, Deaconess Oborevwori, who represented Mrs Tinubu, said: “recently, our mother was here to flag-off the grant of N100,000 each for petty traders and now it is the turn of indigent women in the state.

“We can see that the Renewed Hope Initiative of the wife of the President is greatly concerned about the plight of Nigerians and has put in place this programme to alleviate the economic stress of women who will in turn reach out to their families. We received 1,200 bags of 25kg of rice which will be distributed today”.

She said the beneficiaries were carefully selected from across the 25 local government areas, adding that the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, added 1,200 cartons of noodles, 1,200 cooking oil (1litre each), and other consumables to the 1,200 bags of rice received from the federal level.

She encouraged Deltans not to lose hope in the face of the harsh economic realities but to stay positive of the situation through sincere prayers and acts of charity.

The Governor’s wife encouraged the farmers who received N250,000 each to utilize the cash grant wisely in order to further secure their businesses.

In her words; “do not eat your seed so that you can be sure of a harvest tomorrow”, admonishing Deltans to lend a helping hand to those around them to help cushion the effects of the trying times.

Ealier in their goodwill messages, the Commissioners for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development; Humanitarian Affairs, Community Support Services & Girl- Child Development and Agriculture, Princess Pat Ajudua, Hon Orode Uduaghan and Barr. Val Arenyeka commended the First Ladies for their acts of compassion.

According to them, the disbursement and distribution were testaments to the impact of effective collaboration and partnerships, while they encouraged the beneficiaries to judiciously make use of what they have received.

The beneficiaries expressed appreciation and prayed for the wellbeing of their benefactors.

One of the beneficiaries of the N250, 000 farmers’ grant, Hope Egbogbare, who hails from Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area, said she did not expect such an amount at this point of her life, while expressing confidence that the cash would go a long way in enlarging her poultry business.

One of those who received the food items, Mrs Justina Emelue, expressed her appreciation adding , “the food will help me and my children now because things are very expensive in the market”.

Sports Minister, Enoh to Declare National Youth Games Open in Asaba Today

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh will officially declare the National Youth Games open on Thursday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State.

In anticipation of the event, Senator John Owan Enoh has emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of the Games by strictly adhering to the age requirement.

He reiterated that the National Youth Games are intended for athletes 15 years of age and below, and any attempts at age cheating will not be tolerated.

“As the name of the Games implies, this competition is strictly for the youth. We are committed to providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents in a fair and transparent environment. The technical team has been instructed to ensure that only athletes within the age bracket of 15 years and below participate.”

“Age cheating undermines the purpose of these Games, and we will take firm measures to prevent it,” Senator Enoh stated.

Delta State, renowned for its rich sporting culture, is the host for this year’s event, and the stage is set for an exciting celebration of youth talent and sportsmanship.

The National Youth Games have become an important event in the nation’s sports calendar, offering young athletes the opportunity to compete at a national level and hone their skills. The Games are also a key part of Nigeria’s talent identification and development strategy, helping to groom the next generation of sporting stars.

The Honourable Minister called on all participanting States to embody the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship, while urging spectators and fans to support the young athletes as they represent their states in various sporting disciplines.

The opening ceremony promises to be a grand spectacle, with several dignitaries and sports stakeholders expected to attend in celebration of the future of Nigerian sports.

States Majority Leaders Push For State Laws On Non Kinetic Approaches To Security

Majority Leaders under the aegis of Nigeria Majority Leaders’ Forum have called on the State Houses of Assembly to enact Laws to strengthen non-kinetic approach to security in various States in line with section 14(2b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, (as altered).

At the meeting which was presided over by the Chairman and Majority Leader of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Engr. Emeka Emmanuel Nwaobi at the Continental Hotel, Wuse Zone 4, FCT, Abuja on 9th September, 2024, the meeting agreed that insecurity was gradually taking the centre stage of the nation’s economic agenda, and therefore resolved to strengthen the non-kinetic approaches to fighting security challenges through state laws.

The Forum also agreed in their communique to show greater commitment to upholding democracy through the instrumentality of the State Legislatures in Nigeria.

While pledging their support to the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria and adopting its August 28, 2024 entire communique on the issue of financial autonomy for State Legislatures as enshrined in Section 121 (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as altered), the Forum appealed for support to sustain the capacity development of its members with a view to providing intellectual and technical support to various leaderships at the State levels.

Tantita Provides Nigerian Army With Soldiers’ Transit Accommodation

** 6 Division would continue to protect critical national assets, Maj.Gen. Abdussalam assures

Newly constructed 3 Battalion Soldiers’ Transit Accommodation built and furnished by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSL) for military personnel at Effurun Barrack in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, has been inaugurated by the Nigerian Army.

The building, which is well equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, was commissioned by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam.

Abdussalam, while inaugurating the project, commended Tantita Security for initiating and completing the project as part of efforts in providing welfare for officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.

The GOC stressed that personnel of the Nigerian Army under the 6 Division would continue to protect critical national assets and provide conducive atmosphere for crude and gas exploration activities in the region.

He said that;“Let me thank the Chief of Army Staff for his strategic guidance and leadership. The 6 Division of Nigerian Army will continue to safeguard our critical national infrastructure in order to create conducive atmosphere for the increase in our oil output. We’ll continue to conduct operation to ensure the maintenance of law and order in our area of responsibility”.

He noted that soldiers’ transit accommodation will not only help in lifting the spirit of personnel, but also enhance their outputs in ensuring that there is peace and order for development of their area of coverage.

According to him, “The soldier transit accommodation represents remarkable milestone as it addresses the critical needs of troops which accommodation. The project falls in line with Chief of Army Staff command philosophy which is to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained and equipped and well motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a join environment.

“In this vein, the transit accommodation to be commissioned today highlights the impactful discourse of social corporate responsibility in the spirit of jauntiness. I therefore commend the effort and contribution of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited in achieving this laudable project which will immensely impact the Unit, the Brigade and the Nigerian army.

“I am aware of the enormous resources Tantita committed in achieving this. The project indeed shows that our bond with you (Tantita) transcends the operational energy on the field and has enjoinder the spirit of camaraderie and goodwill which will be sustained. Again, I thank you most sincerely for complementing the Nigerian Army’s efforts of improving the welfare of personnel.

“I also want to urge Tantita that having completed this project in 3 Battalion Effurun, they should look for other Barracks within our area of responsibility so that they can extend their goodwill to them.

“Finally, I commend the efforts leading t the completion of 3 Battalion Soliders Transit Accommodation. The project will no doubt go a long way in lifting the spirit of personnel and enhance their outputs.”

In his remark at the ceremony, Managing Director of TSSL, Engineer Keston Pondi, said the 3 Battalion Soldiers Transit Accommodation was initiated and constructed to boost welfare of military personnel posted to the region as well as to deepened the bond between Tantita and the Nigerian Army.

Engr. Pondi who was represented by the Executive Director of Operations/Technical Services, Captain Warredi Enisuoh, noted that Tantita Security would continue to collaborate with the Nigerian military and other state agents in stamping out crude oil theft in the region.

He commended the Chief of Army Staff and the heads of other security agencies in the country for supporting efforts of Tantita Security Services in the fight against crude oil theft and other illegal activities around the nation’s national assets in the region.

“You all know that our contract is based on performance and the performance cannot be removed from the fact that we have the support of the government security forces. With that performance, comes our salaries also. We are supposed to be more grateful the security forces.

3 Battalion Soldiers Transit Accommodation by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited
“This project has been an interesting project, it is of the Chairman (Tompolo) and Managing Director’s belief that this project is worth supporting. I promised you that we are not stopping here. We’ll continue to stand by you just as have always stood by us. This is the beginning of great partnership”, he added.

Also in their separate remarks the chairman of Uvwie local government, Chief Anthony Ofoni and the commander of 3 Battalion, Major E. Onoja, commended Tantita Security for the gesture, noting that the project will enhance the operation of military personnel.

**”Many people have testified to the healing powers of the Miracle water,. Closing the factory puts lives at risk, Says ArchBishop Dr. Chuka

*””As Prof. Baaba expresses concern over NAFDAC’s action as Acting on Biased information against Prophet Fufeyin

Following the recent allegation and investigation ongoing by NAFDAC on the miracle water being used by the founder and minister in charge of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministries International in Warri, Delta State, Senior Project Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin a Minister of God, Most Rev. Calixtus Oke says NAFDAC overstepping its authority, insisting  that the agency is supposed to regulate the production and sale of drugs, not religious sacramentals.

Most Revd. Calixtus Oke who is also the Bishop of the Evangelical Church (Old Catholic) and Rector of Union Theological Institute and Seminary, Port Harcourt, Tuesday September 10, 2024 in Asaba at NAFDAC premises strongly condemned what he called a media trial of Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin.

While showing total support to Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, Bishop Oke and other of his colleagues Bishops as well as some members of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministries International joined in the peaceful rally stating that Churches have always used items like oil, water, and candles for spiritual purposes, and that it is recognized in Christian history.

Bishop Oke further questioned the validity of NAFDAC’s claims, challenging the agency to provide scientific evidence to support its accusations. “If NAFDAC claims the water is fake, they need to prove it through testing. Otherwise, they have no right to label it as such. Spiritual materials like water, which are blessed for religious purposes, do not fall under NAFDAC’s regulatory jurisdiction.”

He criticized the manner in which the agency handled the situation, describing it as confrontational. According to him “NAFDAC should have invited Prophet Fufeyin for a dialogue instead of sealing his premises. This approach is disrespectful and intimidating to religious leaders.”

Most Revd. Dr. Chidi Ekemefuna Chuka, Archbishop of the Province of the East Orthodox Anglican Communion, defended Prophet Jeremiah’s use of religious items. Positing “Prophets behave differently from pastors and have the right to use natural items like water, oil, and salt for spiritual purposes. If Prophet Jeremiah uses water as part of his ministry and it is not sold to the public, NAFDAC has no business intervening.”

Dr. Chuka stressed that the closure of the water factory was harmful to the people relying on these spiritual materials. “Many people have testified to the healing powers of this water. Closing the factory puts lives at risk. This is a spiritual matter, and NAFDAC should not interfere in such matters unless there is clear evidence of wrongdoing.”

Most Revd. Professor Samuel Baaba, Metropolitan Archbishop of The Charismatic Anglican Church of Nigeria, added that NAFDAC’s actions were premature. “The Church is a Divine institution, and matters of Faith should not be interfered with lightly. Faith involves belief in spiritual practices and NAFDAC should have waited  until the Court proved anything beyond reasonable doubt before taking such drastic action,” he stressed..

Prof. Baaba expressed concerns that the agency might have been acting on biased information. “It seems like there were pre-existing prejudices against Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, If NAFDAC had properly investigated, they would have found that his practices were meant to help people through Faith, not harm them.”.

Despite the heavy rain Faithfuls were not deterred from processing to the NAFDAC premises, even as our correspondent reports that NAFDAC has yet to respond to the claims made by the religious leaders.

The protest marks a significant clash between regulatory authorities and Faith-based organizations over the boundaries of spiritual practices and legal oversight.