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Take over failed 70 KLM Sapele -Eku-Abraka-Agbor Road, University Don Bebenimibo appeals to Delta Govt., Oborevwori

Take over failed 70 KLM Sapele -Eku-Abraka-Agbor Road, University Don Bebenimibo appeals to Delta Govt., Oborevwori

 

A human right activist, Comrade Paul Bebenimibo, PhD, has appealed to Delta State Government to intervene in the 70 kilometres Sapele, Eku, Abraka, Obiaruku, Abavo, Agbor federal road in public interest.

Dr Bebenimibo who is also a lecturer in Delta state university, DELSU, Abraka in his letter of appeal made public decried the deplorable state of the Federal road and implored the state Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to ameliorate the harrowing hardship road users in that axis are passing through on a daily.

The university don who has served as a board member in the Delta State Oil Producing Development Commission (DESOPADEC), between 2019 and 2023, lamented the neglect of the road by the Federal Government and advised the Governor to Liaise with federal to allow him work on the road for the betterment of road users.

His open letter to the governor which reads in part stated; “I am a regular user of the road mentioned above. The road is dilapidated and unpassable now. I know that the road is a Federal road, which the Federal Government has purportedly worked on in the last 12 years or more. However, this road is right in the middle of Delta State, cutting across eight Local Government Areas, including your local government area, Okpe. Others are Ika South, Ika North East, Ukuwani, Ethiope East, Sapele and Ughelli North Local Government Areas. In other words, people from these local government areas have used this road before it became unpassable.

“Even you, Mr Governor, have used this road from Asaba to Osubi, your home town and vice versa, because it is shorter to use from Asaba to Osubi juxtaposed to wherever you use today. If truth be told, the unpalatable condition of the road is a major contributor to the high cost of agricultural products in the state and other parts of Nigeria. The rickety state of the road also contributes to the prevailing insecurity in Delta State.

“It is also a significant contributor to the high cost of transportation in Delta State. The present state of the road is killing education in Delta State as two Universities in Delta State, namely Delta State University, Abraka and the University of Agbor are situated along the road; Staff and Students find it difficult to use the road right now.

‘‘Your Excellency Sir, the reason for not intervening on this road- that it is a federal road is untenable. It is Deltans that use this road; Deltans own farms along this road, and it is Deltans that are suffering. If you can construct fly-overs on a federal road in Warri and Effurun, there is no reason why you should not reconstruct this critical road for Deltans, including you. Sir, you have used this road before its present deplorable condition.

“Your Excellency Sir, it is time for you to approach President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to allow you to work on this road.Your colleague-governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State acted similarly lately, taking over the reconstruction of the 70 kilometres Lagos to Abeokuta Expressway. I respectfully remind you that former governor of Rivers State, Chief Nyensom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, constructed 12 fly-overs on federal roads in Rivers State to ease traffic in the South-South state. You can borrow a leaf from these two great men.

“Mr Governor sir, you made it copiously clear that you are a man of the people during your campaigns in 2023; and that you have enough dosage of “street credibility”, it is now that you have to demonstrate it against the time to come (2027). May Jehovah God see you through in piloting the affairs of Delta State. Amen”.

NPFL New season: Heartland FC to unveil new players September 5th

NPFL New season: Heartland FC to unveil new players September 5th

 

The Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri this Thursday 5th September will come alive as the Imo state darling team- Heartland FC have concluded plans to unveil their newly signed players ahead of the kick off of the new season.

The Naze Millionaires will unveil their new recruits to their passionate fans in Imo State and its environs.

The special event will also mark the maiden Edition of the Dan Anyiam Cup.

The Dan Anyiam Cup in honour of Nigeria’s first Captain who was a former Coach of the Club will henceforth serve as a dress rehearsal before the club plays her first game of the season.
It is a friendly game with a trophy attached to it.

This year Heartland FC will host Nigeria National League side, Kun Khalifat FC of Owerri for the maiden Edition of the Dan Anyiam Cup which Starts by 4 pm with the Unveiling and ends with the friendly game which Is expected to start by 5 pm.

The game will be played under the floodlights and the winner gets the Dan Anyiam Cup.

There are other exciting programmes lined up to whet the appetite of the club’s supporters and fans on Thursday and you will be missing a whole lot if you are not in Owerri’s Dan Anyiam Stadium to witness the epoch making occasion.

Be committed to ideals of PDP, Guwor charges newly elected Delta PDP executive

Be committed to ideals of PDP, Guwor charges newly elected Delta PDP executive

 

 

Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor has charged the newly elected executive of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in the state, to be committed to the ideals of the party.

Rt Hon Guwor in a congratulatory message to the newly elected Chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka and other members of the State Party Exco, said their emergence as the new leaders of the PDP is testament to their dedication, hard work and pedigree in party politics.

The Speaker expressed confidence that Chief Arenyeka and his Executive, including the Deputy Chairman, Chief Moses Iduh and the three Senatorial Chairmen, Engr Dan Ossai, Delta North, Hon Anthony Akpomiemie, Delta Central and Prince Emma Amgbadugba, Delta South, will bring fresh ideas, energy, and direction to the ruling PDP in Delta State.

He said, “I congratulate the newly elected leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

This marks a new chapter in our party’s journey, and I am confident that our new leaders will build on the successes of the past while introducing fresh ideas to drive our party forward”.

Rt Hon Guwor assured that as the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, he looks forward to working with them to achieve desired goals.

The Speaker who represents Warri South West in the House and the National Treasurer, Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria, pledged his support and cooperation to the new leadership of the party.

“I am committed to working closely with the new Exco to advance the interests of our party and the people of Delta State.

“We will work together to strengthen our party, promote development in the state and ensure the continued prosperity of Delta State”, Guwor stated.

The Speaker who led Warri South West delegates to the Party’s Congress, held at the Cenotaph, Asaba, commended the entire process that led to the formation of the new PDP Exco in Delta State.

He congratulated the leader of the party and Governor of the state, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for the peaceful, exciting and democratic exercise, stressing that Delta State remains a strong hold of the PDP.

Rt Hon Guwor also paid glowing tributes to other leaders of party in the state, particularly former Governors, Deputy Governors and Speakers of the State Legislature, for their unwavering commitment at ensuring unity of purpose in PDP.

“I urge all party members to rally round our new leaders and work together towards a common goal of building a stronger, more united PDP in Delta State. Let us put the interests of our party and state above individual ambitions and work towards a brighter future for all.

“Once again, congratulations to our new leaders. I wish them success in their new roles”, the Speaker emphasized.

Association Honours Tompolo In London, Ireland for Environmental, Economic Contributions

Association Honours Tompolo In London, Ireland for Environmental, Economic Contributions

 

In a notable recognition of his contributions to environmental protection and economic development in Nigeria, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has received an award and certificate of recognition from the Ijaw People’s Association of Great Britain and Ireland.

The award was presented during the 76th Ijaw Day celebration held at the Kevin Banquet Suite in London.

Tompolo, renowned for his pipeline surveillance operations aimed at curbing crude oil theft, has been pivotal in protecting the Niger Delta’s environment and creating employment opportunities for the people of the oil rich Niger Delta Region.

The Ijaw People’s Association acknowledged his efforts in safeguarding the region’s natural resources and foster economic growth, emphasizing the positive impact of his work on the local communities.

Recall that Tompolo has declared a resolute stance against economic saboteurs and environmental polluters in the Niger Delta.

“We are going to move into serious action, where we will stop all the illegal activities in the Niger Delta region. We need to do everything within our powers to protect our environment and our nation.”

The award highlights Tompolo’s significant achievements in reducing pipeline vandalism and improving regional security through his security firm, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

His efforts had led to substantial discoveries of illegal oil activities in remote creeks and on the high seas, effectively disrupting the operations of criminal elements.

The organisers said that he was honoured for the good jobs he is doing in the country, especially in the Niger Delta Region where he is waging war against oil thieves.

Prof. Benjamin Akaba, President of the Ijaw National Council, praised Tompolo for his contributions, saying that, “He has been an outstanding patron of the Ijaw nation. The reduction in pipeline vandalization and improvement in security are commendable.
Tompolo’s operations have demonstrated that oil theft is not solely a Niger Delta issue but involves external cabals. We are grateful for his efforts, and if we had more individuals like him, development would flourish.”

Bubaray Dakolo, Chairman of the Bayelsa Traditional Rulers Council, viewed the awards as an encouragement for excellence and leadership within the Ijaw community and said that; “These awards are a call to action for us to continue our efforts and set an example for others”.

Jonathan Lokpobiri, President of the Ijaw Youth Council, stressed the environmental benefits resulting from Tompolo’s initiatives.

He advocated for Tompolo to receive a National Merit Award, pointing out that; “The reduction of illegal refining activities is gradually improving our environment. Tompolo’s efforts are deserving of national recognition.”

The awards ceremony not only celebrated Tompolo’s achievements but also reinforced his commitment to the environmental protection and economic development in the Niger Delta Region.

Ereyitomi congratulates Arenyeka on his emergence as Delta PDP chairman, other exco members

Ereyitomi congratulates Arenyeka on his emergence as Delta PDP chairman, other exco members

 

 

By: Celestine Ukah 

The member representing Warri Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi has congratulated Chief Solomon Arenyeka on his successful election as the Delta State PDP Chairman.

Chief Ereyitomi on Saturday August 31 in Asaba shortly after the PDP Congress that produced Chief Arenyeka as the new Chairman and his executives, hailed the unanimous voting decision by faithful of the PDP, commended Governor Oborevwori for his exemplary leadership of the Party in the State as the Governor with so many legacy projects across the state especially the historic flyovers in Effurun and Warri cosmopolitan cities.

Rep Ereyitomi urged the party executives to ensure dominance of PDP in the state and sustain the winning streak of the PDP in all parts of Delta State and give no room for opposition to set in

The Warri Federal lawmaker expressed deep confidence that the new leadership of the PDP in Delta will deliver effectively like his predecessor Olorogun Kingsley who worked tirelessly with the Exco in ensuring successes in all polls across Delta State.

Chief Ereyitomi on behalf of Warri Federal Constituency also congratulated
the Deputy Chairman, Chief Moses Iduh, and the three Senatorial Chairmen – Engr. Dan Ossai, Delta North, Hon Anthony Akpomiemie, Delta Central and Prince Emma Amgbadugba, Delta South respectively, describing them as men of pedigree that would assist the party further raise the bar in party politics.

He wished the new Delta PDP exco a successful tenure and also appealed to them to unite all members of the party going forward

Belemaoil Appoints New CEO, CFO to Drive Transformation and Growth of firm

Belemaoil Appoints New CEO, CFO to Drive Transformation and Growth of firm

 

Indigenous global oil firm, Belemaoil Producing Limited, has announced the appointment of Ahmadu H. Sambo as its new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer and Emmanuel O. Onos as its Chief Finance Officer. The appointments aim to drive the company’s transformation and realize its shared vision.

Sambo, a former Group General Manager (GGM) of Finances at NNPC, brings over 35 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. Onos, the new CFO, has over 35 years of experience in the financial space of the oil and gas industry.

The board of directors expressed confidence in the new appointees, stating that they will revitalize the company’s Joint Venture operations, unlock multibillion-dollar value, and reposition it for greater heights.

The appointments take effect from September 1, 2024. President/Founder Tein T.S. Jack-Rich will focus on strategic multi-dimensional business development, including Fintech, to foster financial inclusion and promote social good.

Belemaoil, with over 1.2 trillion proven gas reserves, is poised for higher profitability under the new leadership. Jack-Rich believes in the new appointees’ ability to steer the company towards becoming the first truly indigenous oil and gas explorer and producer to be listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange Market, London, and New York Stock Exchange with overwhelming stock growth.

Speaking on the new appointments, Jack-Rich said: “We have no choice than to dream big and break new business boundaries beyond our eyes, for shareholders. I know our critics will say that this task is herculean. And I know you can deliver for yourself, for Nigeria’s sake, our investors, as well as the community that sees Belemaoil as its model.”

The company’s vision for strategic multi-dimensional business development, including Fintech, will foster financial inclusion, promote social good, peace, and shared prosperity for national gain. With the new appointments, Belemaoil is ready to break new business boundaries and achieve significant growth.

Governor Radda Pledges Support for Katsina Polo, Promises Budgetary Provision for Ground Remodeling

Governor Radda Pledges Support for Katsina Polo, Promises Budgetary Provision for Ground Remodeling

 

The Executive Governor of Katsina State, His Excellency, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, has announced plans to make budgetary provisions for the remodeling of the Katsina Polo Ground to meet international standards.

This commitment comes in recognition of the sport’s rich cultural heritage and global significance.

Governor Radda made this declaration during a courtesy visit by officials and patrons of the Katsina Polo Club, led by its President, Alhaji Sanusi Kabir Usman.

“Our administration is committed to supporting polo, not just as a sport, but as a means to revive its glory and transform it into an attractive business venture that fosters mutual relationships,” stated Governor Radda.

He further directed the club’s leadership to prepare a detailed written proposal for the government’s consideration.

Alhaji Sanusi Kabir Usman, President of the Katsina Polo Club, expressed gratitude for the Governor’s support and briefed him on the ongoing polo tournament set to conclude this Saturday.

Adding historical context, the club’s patron, Ajiyan of Katsina, Alhaji Lamis Shehu Dikko, highlighted that this year’s tournament marks the centenary of polo in Nigeria.

He recalled, “The late Emir of Katsina, Muhammadu Dikko, was the pioneer who introduced this noble game to Nigeria and Katsina.”

The State Chairman of the club, Alhaji Muhammadu Usman Sarki, also conveyed his appreciation for the Governor’s support, which has enabled the successful hosting of a tournament that has attracted players from across Nigeria and beyond.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State, the commitment aligns with Governor Radda led administration broader goals of preserving cultural heritage, promoting sports, and fostering economic development in Katsina State.

 

𝗨𝗡𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗡 𝗟𝗢𝗕𝗜 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗖𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗛 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗚𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗨/𝗔𝗛𝗟𝗔𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗘-𝗦𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗛𝗬

𝗨𝗡𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗡 𝗟𝗢𝗕𝗜 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗖𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗛 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗚𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗨/𝗔𝗛𝗟𝗔𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗘-𝗦𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗛𝗬

 

In a fiercely contested final at the Jos International Stadium, Plateau State, Lobi Stars emerged champions of the 2024 Gusau/Alhan Pre-Season Tournament, capping off their campaign with an unbeaten record.

Despite an early setback in the 15th minute when Wikki Tourists’ Nasiru Jibril scored a goal, the resilient ‘Alia Boys’ fought back with determination to draw level.

Lobi Stars took control of the game in the first half, dictating the tempo and launching numerous attacks through the efforts of Ahmadu Liman, Waheed Adebayo, and Stanley Oganbor, yet the equalizer eluded them as they headed into halftime trailing 1-0.

Returning from the break, Lobi Stars Head Coach, Eugene Agagbe made key tactical adjustments which paid off in the 51st minute when Ahmadu Liman skillfully tapped in a brilliant pass from Waheed Adebayo, leveling the score and reigniting hope for the Makurdi-based side.

Although Lobi Stars made several more attempts to clinch victory in regulation time, the match ended 1-1, leading to a dramatic penalty shootout.

It was in this high-pressure scenario that the ‘Yes Father Boys’ triumphed, clinching the title with a 4-3 victory in the shootout.

Captain Daniel Atsaka, who was subbed on towards the end of the game pulled off a crucial save during the penalties, sealing the victory for his team.

𝑳𝒐𝒃𝒊 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒔 𝑴𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒂. reports that the reigning Champions of Gusau/Alhan Pre-season tournament scored 8 goals, conceding only one, and proudly maintaining an unbeaten record.

𝑳𝒐𝒃𝒊 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒔 𝑴𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒂.

Stakeholders Push Back Against Nigerian Senate: ‘Amend, Don’t Repeal’ VAPP Act 2015

Stakeholders Push Back Against Nigerian Senate: ‘Amend, Don’t Repeal’ VAPP Act 2015

.*****The current VAPP Act 2015 is sufficient. What it requires is an amendment, not a repeal as more stakeholders reject Senator’s Jibrin Isah’s bill to repeal the VAPP Act in the FCT.

By Ejiro Umukoro

In a shocking move, the Nigerian Senate has secretly initiated the repeal of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAAP) Act, a bill passed in 2015 to protect marginalized female folks in society. Stakeholders have unanimously condemned this move, citing suspicious motives and a lack of transparency.

The VAAP Act was introduced by the Goodluck Jonathan administration’s four days to the end of his tenure in office before he handed over to President Buhari in 2015 to provide support and justice for victims of violence. However, the current repeal effort has raised concerns among stakeholders, who argue that the bill’s flaws can be addressed through amendments rather than a complete repeal.

During an emergency meeting organised by Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) in collaboration with members of the civil society, non-governmental organizations and the media, including Womanifesto, Techher and LightRay! Media criticized the secrecy surrounding the repeal, questioning the motives behind it.

Hassana Maina, the Lead at Anti-Sexual Violence Lead Support Initiative, (ASVIOL) asked, “Why the secrecy in repealing the VAAP Act? And why are they repealing the bill?” She also questioned the unwillingness of Senator Jibrin Isah’s in engaging members of the civil society, especially women-led organisations who are directly affected by the VAPP Act. She cautioned against the speedy attempt by the law-making institution that refused stakeholders input from across the country in the passage of the Repeal of VAPP Act when there are sufficient data and case studies to prove the efficiency of the VAPP Act 2015 since its passage by the 9th assembly.

The stakeholders identified several issues with the original VAAP Act, including hurried passage, defects in the law, wrong references to the constitution, low fine fees for offenders, etc., they however, emphasized that these issues can be addressed through amendments rather than a repeal.

Dorothy Njemanze, ED, Dorothy Njemanze Foundation raised concern on the increase of the number of women who are the recipients of violence on a daily basis, adding that outstanding court cases will be threatened if VAPP Act is repealed as issues of public spaces are already defined, emphasing that there is no justification for revocation or annulment of the existing act.

An analysis of the proposed repeal bill revealed significant differences from the original VAAP Act, including:

Renaming of the Act
Introduction of gender-neutral language
Provisions inimical to the Act’s objectives
Stakeholders argued that these changes undermine the Act’s purpose and protections for women.

Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Executive Director, (WARDC), emphasized that the VAAP Act is already operative in the FCT and 36 states, and repealing it would negate its successes. She therefore called for a section-by-section analysis of the law to identify areas for improvement. However, she emphasised that existing VAPP Act that has been domesticated in other states in Nigeria are not affected by the current bill for a repeal of the VAPP. She clarified that the VAPP Act Repeal is strictly for the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, exclusive of other states. “We need everyone to have this clarity. The VAPP Act Repeal is for the FCT in Abuja, and not across other states in Nigeria.”

Dr Kemi DaSilva, ED, Women At Risk Foundation (WARIF) agrees with Dr. Afolabi-Akiode on current content of the VAPP Act as being sufficient enough requiring line-by-line analysis for an amendment, but not a repeal, as this is tantamount to throwing away the baby and the bath water. She explains: “We are pushing back.
VAPP Act needs review, no doubt, but beyond emotional reaction, based on the historical aspect of the past, we need to focus on specific areas already highlighted and see where amendments are needed”, she emphasised.

It would be noted that since 2015 t0 2024, there has been high number of domestication violence across states, and especially more so since the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown till date.

The Moderator of the VAPP Act analysis, Lady Ejiro Umukoro, ED LightRay! Media, called on the need to have legislative aides working with senators and house of representatives be properly trained on how to write draft title of bills, language used in the content of bills, ans how to engage stakeholders and their imput into lawmaking. While she commended the addition of a more definition of what consent means, she buttressed the importance of having the critical voices of women be reflected in the act that has a direct impact on women’s lives, health and survival.

Former ActionAid Nigeria Country Director, Ene Obi emphasised the need to have a follow-up stakeholders engagement with Senator Jibrin Isah from Kogi State on the need for an amendment and not a repeal as well as during the public hearing.

Other stakeholders highlighted the need for data on successful case studies under the VAAP Act, engagement with civil society, and institutional involvement in the amendment process in a more transparent and accountable manner.

In conclusion, stakeholders unanimously rejected the repeal of the VAAP Act, calling for amendments to address its flaws rather than a complete repeal. They vowed to amplify their efforts to protect the rights of marginalized female folks in society.

Colombia 2024: Falconets land in Wyndhad hotel, Bogota, days to clash with Koreans

Colombia 2024: Falconets land in Wyndhad hotel, Bogota, days to clash with Koreans

 

Nigeria’s U20 girls, Falconets have taken up residence at their Wyndhad Hotel, Bogota, where the team will stay for their first two matches of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup Colombia 2024.

After scoring 27 goals in a total of eight premium games (six competitive and two friendly matches), the 2010 and 2014 runners-up arrived in high spirits while looking forward to their first match of the tournament against Korea Republic on Monday, 2nd September.

The Koreans have finished in third place in one championship in the 22-year-old competition, and have promised to provide stiff opposition for the perennial finalists. Nigeria is one of only four countries to have featured in every edition of the finals since the competition was launched in Canada as an U19 event in 2002.

The Falconets have further group phase encounters against three-time champions Germany (also in Bogota) and Venezuela (in Cali) on 4th September and 7th September respectively.

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