PAP Boss, Otuaro congratulates President Tinubu @73, reaffirms Niger Delta’s unwavering support

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Chief (Dr) Dennis Burutu Otuaro has felicitated with the President, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu on his 73 birthday anniversary and assured him of unwavering support of Ex-Agitators, beneficiaries of the PAP and the people of the oil-rich Niger Delta Region.

Dr Otuaro said in his birthday congratulatory message that; “As today beckons, it is with profound joy that we join the globe to celebrate Our Father & The Leader with the touch of excellence and ingenuity, the President and Commander in Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR on his 73rd birthday.
Two years on, Nigeria and indeed Nigerians have savoured a great period of positive turnarounds in almost all aspects of our national life”.

According to the PAP boss; “With initiatives aimed at berthing at the point of enduring legacies, you have carried out reforms in such courageous mien that only leaders with focus can even dare.Within halfway in the first term as President, you have charted paths that transformed impossibilities to realities and disillusionment to hope. You have dared where many retreated. Your areas of successes are countless and visible for all reasonable to see. You have soldiered on as the Wartime General whose confidence, courage and dexterity are required to win a battles.
Indeed, you have won your battles and Restored Our Hope As We Move Forward Comes 2027”.

He also said that; “One of the most valuable of these battles is the Presidential Amnesty Programme ( PAP) which has continually engendered peace in the Niger Delta through your deliberate political will and bold financing . Your personal interest in this regard has ensured and enhanced National and Human Security as well as economic stability with increased output in oil production. Nothing Restores and Renews Hope than this”.

Dr Otuaro added that; “Against the backdrop of the foregoing, we will leverage on the opportunity of your leadership drive to sustain the prevailing peace in the Niger Delta. With the assured hope arising from your demonstrated capacity, we are more than convinced that your vision for a better Niger Delta under the RENEWED HOPE AGENDA will transform more lives. As critical stakeholders, ours is to cooperate with the government under your able leadership, especially, as we have seen evidence of your care and concern for the oil rich Niger Delta Region”.

“Therefore, Mr. President should be rest assured that the current peace can only be improved upon. It can never be less.This, Mr. President, is our birthday gift.To this end, I assure you of all ex-agitators and beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and the people of Niger Delta of their unwavering support at all times. Once again, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JAGABAN!”, the PAP boss stated.

Ramadan: Look for Shawwal moon Saturday, NSCIA, Sultan of Sokoto urges Muslims

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged Muslims across the country to look for the new moon of Shawwal on Saturday March 29, 2025.

The Secretary-General of the NSCIA, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, said this on Friday in a statement titled: ‘Idul Fitr goodwill message and Felicitations’.

“Consequent upon the advice of the National Moon Sighting Committee (NMSC), the President-General enjoins the Nigerian Muslim Ummah to search for the crescent of Shawwal 1446 A.H. immediately after sunset on Saturday, 29th Ramadan 1446 A.H. which is equivalent to 29th March 2025.

“It must be noted that, according to scientific calculations, the expected time for the conjunction of Shawwal moon in Nigeria is Saturday, 29th March 2025 at 11:58 a.m.

“That notwithstanding, as Islamic tradition stipulates, Muslims are enjoined to search for the crescent of Shawwal on the 29th of Ramadan.

“If Muslims sight the crescent in accordance with the moon sighting and verification standards, then His Eminence would declare Sunday, 30th March 2025 as the 1st of Shawwal and the day of ‘Idul Fitr.

“However, if the crescent is not sighted that day, then Monday, 31st March 2025, automatically becomes the day of ‘Idul Fitr,” Oloyede said.

He said that in addition to the established traditional and Islamic leaders in each locality, the members of the National Moon-Sighting Committee (NMSC) can be contacted to report any credible and positive sighting of the crescent of Shawwal 1446 AH.

The council prayed Allah to grant everyone the opportunity to witness many more of it in good health and divine guidance.

He also said that in the spirit of Ramadan, Muslims are reminded that Zakatul Fitr (mandatory charity for able Muslims) is a compulsory food levy imposed on privileged Muslims, to be given to the less privileged in the society.

The council, therefore, appealed to all concerned Muslims to ensure that they comply and do so in good time.

“The stipulated practice is to give out the prescribed measurement to beneficiaries in the last two days of Ramadan, but before the ‘Id prayer.

The council encourages all Muslims to pray fervently to the Almighty Allah, especially during the concluding part of Ramadan, for peace, security and development in Nigeria.

“They are also admonished to pray for our leaders in line with the Hadith narrated by Abu Umamah, “Do not curse your leaders; invoke Allah to make them righteous, for their righteousness brings about your well-being as well” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Book 49, Hadith 3299).

“While wishing us all happy ‘Idul Fitr, the council enjoins Muslims all over the country to look out for the announcement to be made by the President-General of NSCIA, on the night of Saturday, 29th of March 2025,” Oloyede said.

**As Organisation Condemns Killings Of TANITITA Personnel

The Niger Delta region has been plagued by violence and sabotage, particularly in the oil and gas sector. Recently, there have been attacks on oil pipelines and the killing of personnel from Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL). These acts of violence are not only detrimental to the region’s economy but also threaten the livelihoods of the people.

The Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM), in an open letter to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and signed by its President, His Highness (Dr) Benjamin Style Tamaranebi (JP) condemned these attacks, stating that they are acts of self-destruction.

The organization has urged the youths in the region to reject this cycle of violence and destruction.

The Niger Delta region is rich in oil and gas resources, but the benefits of these resources have not been equitably distributed. The passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) was a significant step towards addressing this issue, as it ensures that host communities receive direct benefits from the resources extracted from their land.

However, the PIA also states that any community that engages in sabotage forfeits these benefits. This means that the very people committing these attacks are robbing their own families and communities of the progress they have fought to achieve.

The attacks on oil facilities are not only detrimental to the economy but also have severe environmental consequences. Oil spills poison the rivers, destroy aquatic life, and render the land barren. The youths engaging in these attacks must ask themselves who truly benefits from this destruction.

The only winners in this scenario are the oil thieves, corrupt politicians, and foreign oil barons who are eager to see the region remain unstable and underdeveloped. The situation in Rivers State is political, and political issues require political solutions. Destroying pipelines and killing security personnel will not resolve these conflicts.

Tantita Security Services and other security outfits are crucial in safeguarding Nigeria’s oil assets. Their presence has helped to curb oil theft, improve production levels, and stabilize the national economy. The youths in the region must recognize the importance of protecting these facilities and the personnel who work to secure them.

The HOSTCOM has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts in transforming the oil and gas sector. The organization has also thanked the President for ensuring effective compliance with the PIA, which has led to a significant increase in oil production and revenue for the region.

However, the HOSTCOM has also urged the Federal Government to address the root causes of youth restiveness in the region. This includes providing employment opportunities, improving infrastructure, and ensuring that the benefits of the oil and gas resources are equitably distributed.

The Niger Delta region has suffered for too long, and it is time for the youths to take a stand against violence and destruction. The HOSTCOM has urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and responsible citizens to reject violence and report any individuals attempting to incite destruction in their communities.

The government must also take swift action to crush these criminals and their sponsors. The Niger Delta must not be used as a battleground for political struggles that do not serve the interests of its people.

In conclusion, the HOSTCOM has urged the youths in the Niger Delta region to shun violence and protect the oil facilities. The organization has commended President Tinubu for his efforts in transforming the oil and gas sector and has urged the Federal Government to address the root causes of youth restiveness in the region.

The Niger Delta region has the potential to be a hub of economic growth and development, but this can only be achieved if the youths reject violence and destruction. The HOSTCOM has urged the youths to choose peace, progress, and prospects over strife, conflict, and discord.

As the Niger Delta region celebrates President Tinubu’s 73rd birthday, the HOSTCOM has prayed for God to sustain him in robust health to enable him to carry out his policies and programs as enshrined in the RENEWED HOPE AGENDA.

Ultimately, the Niger Delta region must rise above the schemes of greedy politicians and criminals. The youths must take a stand against violence and destruction and work towards building a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

Here Is The Full Open Letter By HOSTCOM To The President:

OPEN LETTER TO:

(1) ASIWAJU BOLA AMHED TINUBU, GCFR PRESIDENT & COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

(2) YOUTHS OF THE NIGER DELTA

A CALL FOR RESTRAINT: KILLING OF PERSONNELS OF TANTITA SECURITY SERVICES NIGERIA LIMITED (TSSNL) AND BOMBING OF OIL FACILITIES IN THE NIGER DELTA – PROTECTING OUR FUTURE

That foresightedness and courageous actions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, especially in the oil and gas sector in the last nearly two years, have transformed the landscape and allowed Nigeria to improve its oil production quota significantly and reduce rampant oil theft, is no longer news.

It’s also obvious that engagement of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) and other none state actors in the task of policing and securing the nation’s economic assets has yielded tremendous positive outcomes.

It’s in this regard that we commend Mr. President for the confidence he has reposed in Tantita as a critical part of the security architecture for maintaining oil assets in the Niger Delta.

However, we are not unaware that some disgruntled people are unhappy with our successes and the relief that Mr President’s courageous steps have brought to the country, and especially to local communities in the Niger Delta.

The recent bombings of oil pipelines and cold-blooded murder of TSSNL personnel in the Niger Delta are reckless acts that threaten not only the stability of our region but also the future of our communities.

They are not acts of heroism but acts of self-destruction.

Those who engage in these crimes are not freedom fighters, they are tools in the hands of selfish politicians and criminal syndicates, who care nothing for the Niger Delta or its people.

These actions, carried out under the guise of political grievances, are shortsighted. They do not serve the interests of the Niger Delta people—they only deepen our suffering.

Let us be clear: Destroying our oil assets is economic suicide. It’s a direct attack on the very lifeline of our communities.

Our host communities have endured environmental degradation, economic hardship, and neglect for decades.

The passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) was a turning point, ensuring that our communities finally receive direct benefits from the resources extracted from our land. The PIA was a hard-earned victory that finally guaranteed the host communities a share of the wealth generated from our land.

Billions of naira have already flowed into community trusts, empowering local development initiatives. However, Section 257, Subsection 2 of the PIA is clear: Any community that engages in sabotage forfeits these benefits. That means the very people committing these attacks are robbing their own families and their futures.

Attacking oil infrastructure weakens Nigeria’s economy and directly robs our communities of the progress we have fought to achieve.

Let us also be clear about who benefits from this destruction. Not the youths. Not the struggling leaders of the host communities. Not the hard-working people of the Niger Delta. The only winners are the oil thieves, the corrupt politicians and the foreign oil barons, who are eager to see our region remain unstable and underdeveloped.

The situation in Rivers State is political, and political issues require political solutions. Destroying pipelines and killing security personnel will not resolve these conflicts—it will only make our region more volatile and unlivable. Oil spills poison our rivers, destroy aquatic life, and render our land barren and our youths are left with nothing.

The youth engaging in these attacks must ask themselves: Who truly benefits from this destruction? Certainly not the host communities.

This madness must stop. Tantita Security Services and other security outfits are crucial in safeguarding Nigeria’s oil assets. Their presence has helped to curb oil theft, improve production levels, and stabilise our national economy.

TSSNL and other security personnel are not our enemies but our brothers and sisters working to protect our collective future. It is indefensible to do anything to bring them to harm. They have put their lives on the line to protect our oil wealth from criminal gangs. Killing them is not act of resistance, it’s cowardly and an unforgivable betrayal of our people and our future.

The crisis in River State is political. Politicians will eventually settle their differences- but will they bring back the lives lost? Will they restore our environment? Will they restore the benefits stolen from our communities? No, they will move on, leaving our youths stranded to suffer the consequences.

We must not be fools. We must not allow ourselves to be used. Every youth in the Niger Delta must reject this cycle of violence and destruction. Protecting our oil facilities is not about helping the government- it’s about securing our future.

We aligned with the the position canvassed by a human right activist, Comrade Deji Adeyanju, after the unjustiable killing of some personnel of Tantita, when he said, “The engagement of TANTITA is critical in combating the scourge of oil smuggling and bunkering. As a local company, they possess intimate knowledge of the terrain in the Niger Delta and are acutely aware of the hiding places and tactics employed by these criminals.”

We in HOSTCOM believed that this unique understanding of the Niger Delta terrain by Tantita and its personnel is vital for effective onslaught against oil theft, and it’s imperative that our security agencies and other critical stakeholders in our region recognise the selfless contributions of Tantita and its main promoter, our own indefatigable Niger Delta crusader for better life for our people and champion of equitable and fair distribution of the nation’s resources, High Chief, Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and support them.

We in HOSTCOM also know and believed it to be true that President Tinubu’s administration has taken drastic steps to enforce the PIA, which has ultimately increased oil production and revenue for our region. Reckless acts of violence must not destroy the progress.

It would be recalled that for decades, governors in the region have collected 13 percent of derivation from the federal government and yet have done nothing to develop local communities, despite receiving this fund that runs in billions of naira.

We thank President Tinubu GCFR; the Hon. Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Mele Kyari and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe FNSE CFR, for ensuring effective compliance with PIA, a development which has led to major spike in our daily production of crude oil from abysmal 600,000bpd to about 1.8mbpd with the good work of TSSNL and other state and non-state actors.

We urge traditional rulers, community leaders, and responsible citizens to reject violence and report any individuals attempting to incite destruction in our communities.

The Niger Delta must not be used as a battleground for political struggles that do not serve the interests of its people.

The government must swiftly crush these criminals and their sponsors, if our persuasive appeals are ignored, before they do irreversible damage.

Enough is enough. The Niger Delta has suffered for too long. We cannot build a future on sabotage and destruction. Let us rise above the schemes of greedy politicians and criminals. Let’s protect what is ours. Let us choose peace, progress and prospects.

We should choose stability over strife, collaboration over conflict and dialogue over discord.

We also call on the Federal Government to also address other root causes of youth restiveness in the region in order to strengthen the prevailing peace in the oil-rich belt.

We seize this opportunity to congratulate and wish Mr. President well on his 73rd birthday, on Saturday, March 29th, 2025.

We pray that God sustains you in robust health to enable you to carry out your policies and programmes as enshrined in the RENEWED HOPE AGENDA.

GOD BLESS THE NIGER DELTA REGION

GOD BLESS THE SOUTH-SOUTH GEOPOLITICAL ZONE

GOD BLESS ASIWAJU BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR

GOD BLESS THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA.

SIGNED:

HIS HIGHNESS (DR.) BENJAMIN STYLE TAMARANEBI (JP)
PRESIDENT, HOST COMMINITIES OF NIGERIA PRODUCING OIL AND GAS (HOSTCOM)

BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Championship to Jump Off in April

The highly anticipated BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship is set to take place at the Lake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, Ogun State, from April 3 to 4, 2025.

The championship, backed by BetKing’s sponsorship, marks a major boost for wheelchair basketball, which is rapidly growing into one of Nigeria’s premier para-sports.

Speaking ahead of the event, the President of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation (NWBF) expressed profound gratitude to BetKing for their unwavering support.

“On behalf of Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball, the entire board, and every stakeholder in the sport, I want to personally appreciate BetKing for all they are doing. When we approached them, it felt as though they were already expecting us. Their immediate willingness to support us shows they truly understand Nigeria’s sports history and the vital role Special Sports have played in the country’s international successes over the years,” he said.

The NWBF President emphasized the need for greater corporate involvement in para-sports, noting that such partnerships complement the government’s ongoing efforts to restructure and revitalize Nigerian sports.

With the National Sports Commission (NSC) leading reforms, he called on more organizations to follow BetKing’s example by investing in adaptive sports.

The championship also serves as an important avenue to scout players for the national team, as Nigeria gears up for the Commonwealth Games qualifiers later this year in South Africa.

The President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s chances of securing a historic spot at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, crediting BetKing’s support for helping the team build momentum.

The BetKing Wheelchair Basketball 3×3 National Open Championship will feature elite wheelchair basketball players from across the country, showcasing their skills and resilience in a competition that promotes inclusivity and celebrates athletic excellence. Fans and sports enthusiasts are encouraged to attend and witness the thrilling display of talent and determination.

UNICAL at 50: Each challenge I see, I confront with solution – VC Prof. Obi

By: Celestine Ukah

The Vice Chancellor University of Calabar, UNICAL, Prof. Florence Obi says she confronts challenges with solutions instead of making it affect development.

Prof. Obi stated this on a live interview on ARISETV still on the mood of celebrating UNICAL at 50 which commenced last weekend with an award of honourary Doctorate Degree to distinguished Nigerians at the main campus in Calabar the Cross Rivers State capital.

The UNICAL VC commended all alumnus of the institution for their support and others who have also shun dedication to improving infrastructure in the university.

Prof. Obi, while expressing deep appreciation for those they honoured who are mostly their alumnus, however cautioned mischievous people not to drag the university into politics of any state as they are not part of any political happening in any state, reiterating that the university of Calabar UNICAL is celebrating their 50th anniversary where they used the opportunity to recognise the contribution of their own distinguished fellows.

You’re an exceptional leader, grassroots mobilizer, mentor, Warri North Boss, Ashima congratulates Diden @62

The Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area, Hon. Festus Ashima congratulates the former Chairman of Warri North LGA, Hon. Michael Diden (AKA) Ejele as he marks his 62nd birthday today March 26, 2025.

Hon. Ashima, while hailing Hon. Evang. Diden described him as an exceptional leader, grassroots mobiliser, mentor and a steadfast advocate for the masses.

The Warri North Council Boss, commended Diden’s lasting impact on his senatorial district and beyond, adding that his guidance and influence has inspired many.

Hon. Ashima in his congratulatory message on behalf of the good people of Warri North Local Government Area acknowledged Diden’s astonishing contributions to the development of Warri North, Delta State as well as his unwavering dedication to public service.

Hon. Ashima wished the former Delta State House of Assemby member, Hon. Diden continued success, good health, and prosperity in the years ahead.

**As Comrade Ovakporunye urges match officials to be professionals, shun sentiment

By Ogo Clarkson

As the inaugural Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda Peace and Unity Cup sets to kick off Saturday, March 29 at the Ughelli Open Soccer Field, Comrade Ovakporunye Fortune of Agbon Kingdom has urged the Local Organizing Committee and ACP Ademola Adebayo, Ughelli Area Commander, to ensure match officials remain impartial and objective.

While addressing attendees during the draws ceremony for the Ughelli Kingdoms Cup, comprising 14 kingdoms, Comrade Ovakporunye emphasized the importance of fair play and sportsmanship. “The match officials should be professionals without sentiment. They must remain objective, especially in a knockout competition like this, where surprise results are expected.”

He advised participating kingdoms to focus on fostering unity and strengthening relationships rather than solely pursuing the winning prize.

The tournament schedule is as follows:

Olomu vs. Uwheru – 10:00 am

Agbon vs. Arhavwarien – 12:00 pm and Agbarho vs. Ogor – 3:00 pm

All matches will be played at the Ughelli General Field.

FG to stop Solar Panel Imports, Encourages Local manufacturing

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to ban the importation of solar panels to promote local manufacturing and accelerate Nigeria’s shift toward clean energy solutions.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, disclosed this during the recent unveiling of the NEV T6 electric buses in Abuja. He explained that the decision aligns with Presidential Executive Order No. 5, which prioritises local content in science, engineering, and technology.

According to Nnaji, Nigeria is making significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure and can meet its solar energy needs locally. He highlighted the role of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and other private manufacturers in driving solar panel production within the country.

“We have lithium in abundance here in Nigeria, so Mr. President is already taking action. The lithium we have will be processed and used as batteries for electric vehicles,” he stated.

Nnaji also projected that expanding local solar panel manufacturing will enable more homes and institutions to transition to off-grid power solutions, reducing dependence on the national grid and fossil fuels.

Regarding concerns about Nigeria’s power supply and its impact on electric vehicle adoption, Nnaji clarified that the country is already deploying mini-grid solutions to enhance energy access.

“We have power. It depends on the source of power we are talking about. Today, if you look at our budget, you will see mini-grids everywhere. In less than four months, hospitals and institutions will be powered by solar,” he said.

The minister emphasised that the government is actively reducing reliance on diesel and petrol-powered energy sources by investing in non-carbon emission infrastructure.

As part of its broader strategy, the government intends to support local manufacturers and ensure that Nigerian-made solar panels become the primary source for domestic and commercial energy solutions.

“With NASENI and other private manufacturers already producing solar panels, we will stop importation and focus on growing our local industry. Soon, most houses will go off-grid. Personally, I have been off-grid for over three years, and it is working,” Nnaji stated.

This move signals a bold step towards energy self-sufficiency, fostering job creation, technological innovation, and a sustainable energy future for Nigeria.

I have never received ₦500 million or any amount from Senate President,Akpabio, Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan clarifies

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has dismissed as false and malicious the rumors claiming she alleged that Senate President Godswill Akpabio credited her account with ₦500 million to facilitate a meeting at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. The Kogi Central senator described the claims as a complete fabrication designed to mislead the public and damage her reputation.

In a statement on Wednesday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan categorically denied ever making such allegations and emphasized that no such transaction ever took place. “Let me be clear: I have never received ₦500 million or any amount from Senator Akpabio. At no time did I make any statement suggesting such. This is nothing but a deliberate falsehood aimed at causing unnecessary controversy,” she said.

The senator expressed deep concern over the increasing spread of fake news and politically motivated falsehoods, calling on the public to disregard the claims. She warned that the propagation of lies for personal or political advantage poses a significant threat to the country’s democratic values. “It is unfortunate that certain individuals are willing to fabricate such blatant lies. I urge Nigerians to verify information before believing or sharing it,” she added.

Akpoti-Uduaghan also challenged those behind the rumor to provide any credible evidence backing their claims, maintaining that she has always upheld the highest standards of integrity and accountability in public service. “Falsehoods like this are unacceptable. My focus remains on serving my constituents with transparency and dedication, not engaging in baseless distractions,” she stated.

The senator called on security agencies to investigate the source of the misinformation and take necessary action against those responsible. She reaffirmed her commitment to the principles of truth and justice, declaring, “Defamation and character assassination should have no place in our society. I am confident that the truth will always prevail.”