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HON .OYEMIKE HAILS CHIEF AUSTIN AVURU’S APPOINTMENT TO NNPCL BOARD: A NEW DAWN FOR NDOKWA NATION

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HON .OYEMIKE HAILS CHIEF AUSTIN AVURU’S APPOINTMENT TO NNPCL BOARD: A NEW DAWN FOR NDOKWA NATION

Hon. Valentine Nneoma Oyemike, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Ndokwa West Candidate for the Delta State House of Assembly in the 2023 general Elections has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief Avuru on this prestigious national assignment.

In a defining moment for the Ndokwa Nation, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has appointed Chief Austin Ojunekwu Avuru as a Non-Executive Director to the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). This remarkable appointment is not only a testament to Chief Avuru’s outstanding expertise but also a clear indication of the federal government’s recognition of the immense contributions of Ndokwa to national development.

In a congratulatory message by Hon. Oyemike, he described the appointment as a beacon of renewed hope for the Ndokwa people, emphasizing that it reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusivity, competence, and the engagement of seasoned professionals in driving the nation’s economic and energy sector reforms.

“Chief Avuru’s appointment is a source of pride for Ndokwa Nation. His vast experience in the oil and gas sector will no doubt bring significant value to NNPCL, and we are confident that he will distinguish himself in this new role,” Hon. Oyemike stated.

He further expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for finding an Ndokwa son worthy of this great opportunity to serve, noting that this milestone signals greater participation and recognition for Ndokwa people at the national level.

As Chief Austin Avuru takes on this critical national role, the entire Ndokwa Nation stands behind him, offering support and prayers for a tenure marked by excellence, innovation, and impactful contributions to the Nigerian oil and gas industry – he concluded

Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma: Touching lives in a unique way

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Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma: Touching lives in a unique way

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

In this report, Ike Philip Abiagom chronicles the life and inspiration of philanthropist,the trail-blazing Real Estate mogul par excellence from Ibusa and Chairman of One Needs Properties Limited, Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma, and how he has been touching the lives of Nigerians, far and near.

Just as the holy bible said in Acts Chapter 20, verse 35, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’, Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma, has been an epitome of silent giving as many lives have been positively affected by his acts of charity. Philanthropist abound all over the world. Sometimes, persons blessed by almighty God will decide to touch the lives of the less privileged in order to give back to the society that made them what they are and whom they are.

For much of human history, the idea of ownership and property was non-existent. Most resources were shared in the community. Philanthropy arose with the advent of capitalism. Humans struggled for wealth. Some succeeded. Some failed. The world became divided between the haves and the have not. Those who have more than enough sometimes try to share their excess with those who do not have enough.

Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma, is a Nigerian passionate about impacting the society though acts of immense humanity. He is an example of the ‘Haves’ of the society, those who not just that they have more than enough but they are passionate about sharing their wealth with others, those imbued with a burning desire to touch the poor and less privileged. He is a Real Estate mogul who has over the years invested so much in human capital development and philanthropy, through which he has impacted several lives and communities.

The man popularly called “One Needs” has over the years pursued a lot of philanthropist endeavours, targeted at lifting the less privileged out of poverty and making the world a better place for all. He has committed substantial funds to various humanitarian causes and charitable organizations. His considerable investment in human capital has led to the mentoring and grooming of hundreds of youths to be self-sufficient and the creation of opportunities to those in need of a viable platform to thrive in life.

Through One Needs Foundation, which he wholly finances, the Igbuzo-born Real Estate mogul has sponsored a private execution of community projects, offered free scholarships to many indigent persons from primary to tertiary level education, provided shelter for many homeless families and sponsored free health care projects. The foundation strives to promote love, save lives, improve global health, groom and mentor youths, and collaborate with other civil society and human rights organizations to alleviate poverty, health challenges, support education, improve living conditions of individuals and promote community development.

One Needs Properties Ltd. recently paid the fees of over 1,500 candidates for the forthcoming 2025 Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination (Primary Six Exams) registration fees for all the primary school students in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. The One Needs Foundation with some partners has pledged to embrace and enhance humanity in diverse ways by consistent donations to philanthropy.
It is in recognition of his contribution to national development in the area of Philanthropy and Humanitarian Services (Charity) that the Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria(ACNPN) deemed worthy to conferred him with Merit Award as “ACNPN Man of the Year 2024” which is part of the 21st ACNPN National Awards.

CELEBRATING THE BIRTHDAY OF A GORGEOUS WOMAN

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CELEBRATING THE BIRTHDAY OF A GORGEOUS WOMAN

Today is the birthday of my favorite person in the world, the mirror of beauty ! Indeed a true definition of a GORGEOUS WOMAN. The whole world is celebrating a woman who is a perfect example of beauty and God fearing person. She’s the pillar who makes her family so strong, love so true, joy so real, faith so firm and fear so ordinary. She is the embodiment of cerebral articulation, the epitome of intellection and breathtaking simplicity, the personification of undiluted humanness, the perfect example of leadership symbolism, the paragon of idealism, the soul humanity, the mirror of beauty , the amazon. Indeed, some women are born, some achieve leadership, some have leadership thrust upon them, while only very few have all three embedded in them.
Onyekachi Favour is one of those very few good woman; a true woman,a woman of valour,the bringer of rain. In the gallery of great leaders and great women, she is without doubt, a rare masterpiece.

 

Onyekachi Favour will celebrate her birthday today and to put the epochal celebration in proper perspective, she attained the midpoint of life at the exciting peak and the proper prime of her mercurial powers where, poised like the bronzed champion, glowing flamboyantly in the golden flame of her decade, prepares herself to capture and conquer arguably, the one ultimate laurel for which her superlative gifts and brilliance clamour to be manifestly celebrated with maximum educational aplomb woven into the matrix of an intrepid homogeneous ubiquity.

A true friend, sister, elegant, gorgeous and unblemished in the magisterial lithe and athleticism of folkloric Queen and heroine, soft-spoken, with clear, unfettered, excellent diction and oratory, her brilliant smile like sparkling sun radiating from crystal clear eyes. Favour is down to earth and corporate-smart, from the various experiences of home-bred grooming, ivy league sojourns in first class royal family and the inspirational influence and unparalleled, unquantifiable tutelage from a respected royal father.

A woman of immense mettle and a completely detribalized human being with a profound depth of character, whose humility, devoid of discrimination, embraces all and sundry, she soars like an eagle and exudes reverence and integrity. A pragmatic woman full of benevolence, she gives hope to the hopeless,and welfare and succor to the poor and needy. To everyone who crosses her path, she is a light.she is a friend to all, a role model to the young, a helper to many and a visionary woman bubbling with the ideals of entrenching a united, peaceful, harmonious vision for her community and the world. Honest, transparent, Dependable, uncomplicated and full of wisdom, Onyekachi Favour can change you effortlessly, with her soft spoken words.
Favour, though even the sun will one day run out of fuel, my love for you shall last forever. I thank God each and every day for giving me a Friend like you. On your birthday, I want to thank you for being the best sister, friend anyone could ever hope for. You are such a great role model for every woman in the world because you are so loving, caring, protective, and supportive.

You are the most thoughtful, intelligent and caring person I know.

Happy Birthday the Amazon!

Pastor Idowu Okeze, A Philanthropist With A Heart Of Gold

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Pastor Idowu Okeze, A Philanthropist With A Heart Of Gold

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Pastor Idowu Okeze

To have and give, expecting nothing in return is a rare trait possessed by very few men. Few men who are compassionate and godly, becomes rare and is termed “philanthropy extraordinaire,” especially in Nigeria.

Pastor Idowu Okeze has provided his people from Igbuzo in Oshimili North Local Government of Delta State with several essential amenities such as water, Transformers, Solar light and roads lacking in particular areas in his community, which he found in his heart to ease the problems of his people by taking the bull by the horn.

Silently and diligently, with passion, he started realizing and fulfilling his dream for his people in earnest. He achieved all this without publicity and social media engagements.

Okeze, a silent achiever, organized and coordinated a group of his people especially the peasant farmers to give them all farming implements to ease their farming season.

He single-handedly sponsored the drilling of boreholes at various locations in Igbuzo-Oshimili North local government areas and went further to resuscitated some damage roads in the area.

His benevolence didn’t stop there. Knowing the benefits of education, as an Educated person, he came up with an idealogy that no child in Igbuzo should be left behind in terms of basic education. He solely embarked on awards of various scholarships to students in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions.

His kind-hearted nature never ignores the less privileged. With his belief that no one from Igbuzo and Oshimili North should go to bed hungry, with dignity, he provided seasonal palliatives of all kinds, distributing food items.

Pastor Idowu Okeze also pays hospital bills for individuals,establishes businesses and sponsors people in various vocational training like plumbing, hairdressing, tailoring, motor parts dealership, solar panels and CCTV installation. Most of the beneficiaries are Youths,widows and orphans.He also empowered both Igbuzo and non-indigenes with over one thousand tricycles (KEKE) for commercial use.

Pastor Idowu Okeze sponsored the enrollment of 1000 indigent and vulnerable Ibusa indigenes into the informal sector category of the Health scheme of Delta State Contributory Health Commission insurance premium by paying #7000 (Seven Thousand Naira Only) per person and the One thousand persons in Ibusa were given access health care card for one full year, free of charge. This is the first of its kind where indigent enrollees who are vulnerable are adopted by a philanthropist with passion to save life.

His genuine love and affection for his people wasn’t unnoticed. The people from the community, Igbuzo are calling on the traditional ruler to bestow on Him chieftaincy titles, inorder to encourage him to do more for the needies and less privilege ones.

Pastor Idowu Okeze is popularly called by the name “Upkechukwu Ibusa”,is testimonial, and a clear proof of the true nature of this glorious gentleman who is so handsome both in the flesh and in his heart.

You have many fantastic qualities but among the top of them have to be that you are dependable,trustworthy and you are always there for the Igbuzo Youths,widows and orphans.
You are truly inspirational figure! I just wanted you to know on how much you are admired and respected by your people!
You have certainly earned your place in history! “Upkechukwu Ibusa”, A great son of Igbuzo.

Alaska Ekele emerges new South South Writers Forum

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Alaska Ekele emerges new South South Writers Forum
By: Newsbreeze
Writers in South South under the aegis of South South Writers Forum, SOSOWFO had the maiden edition of her International Convention. The event held between March 13, 2025 which was arrival day and spanned till March 16, 2025 which was departure day. The event held at Loccocoon Hotels Ltd. Kwale.
The Theme of the convention was “Building the Creative Economy of the South South Region of Nigeria: The Role of Writers” with Dr Peter Omoko as the Keynote Speaker.
During the period of the convention they had election to usher in National Executive Committee that would run the affairs of the body in the next four years; had the maiden Annual General Meeting, AGM, went on tour to Ogume Grammar School, Ogume, Umukwata Kingdom where they were amazed at the giant strides of HRM Friday Abaja and also visited the source of River Ethiope at Umuaja. It was a richly packaged convention.
At Ogume Grammar School, they sensitized the students about the forum and enjoined them to take their books seriously, stressing that they were there at the instance of Uncle Alaska Ekele an eminent Old Boy of the school. They informed the students that they would be organizing healthy academic competitions among schools in the Geo-political zone. Before leaving, they promised donating some of their books to the school through Alaska Ekele.
During election which held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 candidates were screened thoroughly and were given ten minutes each to present their manifestos by the Dr BC Anyanwu led Electoral Committee. At the end of the exercise candidates for the offices of Assistant General Secretary and Treasurer were screened out as they could not give account of themselves. Those that passed the litmus test and elected were
Uncle Alaska Ekele – President
Mrs Joy Esuku – Vice President
Prof Ofonime Inyang – General Secretary
Chief Nelson Ulie – Financial Secretary
Dr Rita Inoma-Abbey – Legal Adviser and
Mrs Esther Dominic Nwabuisi – Publicity Secretary.
As for the vacant offices, members were asked to aspire as bye-election would be conducted in due course. The winners were issued Certificate of Return by Dr BC Anyanwu and were inaugurated by Barrister Donatus Chukwuma.
In his acceptance speech on behalf of other elected national officers Uncle Alaska Ekele thanked members for finding him worthy of leading them and also thanked the Electoral Committee for professional, successful and peaceful conduct of the election. He said with the new crop of national officers, the forum would surely get to greater heights. As a new beginning he has collapsed all the existing state chapters and charged all members to plot a graph that would usher in new committees at the state levels to be inaugurated by the National Executive Committee in due course. He enjoined members to go for membership drive.
Far reaching decisions were taken during the AGM. Notable was to honour HRM Friday Abaja the Ukwata 1 of Umukwata Kingdom with a Prestigious award for transforming his community and for touching lives. As a mark of honour to the first National President, Uncle Alaska Ekele, it was agreed that headquarters of South South Writers Forum, SOSOWFO to be established in Ndokwa land. Uncle Ekele according to the forum has done creditably well that without him the group may have collapsed and may not have been registered with Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC. Students across board were given waivers for free membership.
The group would be making policy statements through press releases, come up with a communique and to act as a watchdog to the region. It was indeed a successful convention with Akwa Ibom state given the hosting right for next the 2026 convention.

PROMOTING DELTA PRIMARY SCHOOL GRADUATE TEACHERS: A MATTER OF EQUALITY, FAIRNESS*

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PROMOTING DELTA PRIMARY SCHOOL GRADUATE TEACHERS: A MATTER OF EQUALITY, FAIRNESS*

 As we continue to grapple with the challenges within our education system, it is imperative that we recognise the invaluable role played by our primary school teachers.
These dedicated professionals lay the foundation for lifelong learning, equipping our children with the essential skills and knowledge needed for success.
However, despite their crucial contributions, primary school graduate teachers have been unjustly denied promotion to Level 17. This glaring inequity demands urgent redress.
The argument that primary school teachers should not be promoted to Level 17 simply because they teach at the primary level is fundamentally flawed.
All university degrees hold equal merit, and primary school teachers who possess degrees should be granted the same opportunities for career progression as their counterparts in secondary schools.
Furthermore, other states such as Edo and Anambra have already taken steps to upgrade primary school degree teachers to Level 17.
This precedent raises serious questions about fairness and equality. If other states can acknowledge and reward the contributions of primary school teachers, why should we lag behind?
A staunch advocate for primary school teachers, Comr. Titus Okotie has presented a compelling case for their promotion.
“Equality and fairness demand that we recognise the value of primary school teachers,” he asserted.
“The foundation of education is laid at the primary level, where teachers impart the basic skills and knowledge our children need to thrive.”
The Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, while representing Governor Sherrif Oborevwori on World Teachers’ Day in October 2024, expressed support for the promotion of primary school graduate teachers.
He assured that the matter would be presented to the Executive Council (EXCO) for consideration.
We commend Governor Oborevwori for approving the promotion of 262 secondary school teachers to Level 17 through the Post Primary Education Board (PPEB).
However, we urge him not to overlook the equally deserving primary school teachers. Whether in primary or secondary schools, these educators are integral to our children’s development and play a critical role in shaping their futures.
They also exercise their voting rights during elections, contributing to the leadership that governs our state. It is only just that their dedication and service be recognised and rewarded on equal terms.
It is important to note that the minimum entry qualification for primary school teachers has evolved over the years.
Previously, it was the Teachers’ Certificate II (TC II), later upgraded to the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE). The benchmark for promotion was once Level 14, but with degree holders now teaching at the primary level, it is only logical that they be accorded the same recognition and career progression as their secondary school counterparts.
Aligning these standards will strengthen the primary education sector and enhance its appeal to aspiring teachers.
In an ever-evolving world, education must also adapt to remain relevant. Our education system should be dynamic, inclusive, and responsive to change.
Promoting primary school graduate teachers to Level 17 is a progressive step that acknowledges their indispensable role in shaping the future of our children.
While we appreciate Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to promoting secondary school teachers, we urge him to extend the same recognition to primary school teachers.
Doing so would reaffirm his dedication to education and the welfare of all teachers in the state.
Recognising and promoting primary school teachers to Level 17 is not merely a matter of equality and fairness; it is a crucial step towards strengthening our education system.
We call upon the state government to revisit this pressing issue and grant primary school graduate teachers the promotion they rightfully deserve.
Governor Oborevwori should take decisive action to correct this injustice and ensure that primary school teachers receive the recognition and career progression they have long been denied.
 *Comrade Osita Biose is a concerned citizen and advocate for education reform.*

Real Estate sector are facing severe turbulence over the past years due to rising inflation – Otoma

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Real Estate sector are facing severe turbulence over the past years due to rising inflation – Otoma

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma
CEO, One Needs Properties Ltd.

Nigerian real estate market has faced severe turbulence over the past five years due to rising inflation, currency devaluation, and economic instability. Once a thriving industry for developers and investors, the sector has encountered significant challenges, pushing many builders into financial distress and forcing property buyers to reconsider their investments.

The real estate sector has also struggled with bureaucratic red tape, making land acquisition and project approvals difficult for investors. Additionally, inadequate road networks, inconsistent electricity supply, and inefficient urban planning have hindered the sector’s full potential. Rising insecurity and political uncertainty could further complicate investment decisions, potentially deterring foreign capital inflows.

In a chat with Newsbreeze, Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma , the founding Chairman, One Need Properties Ltd, the trail-blazing Real Estate mogul par excellence and a respected voice in the real estate sector, shared insights into the key factors shaping the industry. He examined economic conditions, regulatory reforms, technological advancements, and infrastructure expansion, offering strategic advice to investors and developers seeking to navigate the evolving landscape.

According to Otoma, several elements will influence Nigeria’s real estate market in 2025. Economic stability and government policies will play a central role in determining investment confidence, while urbanisation and population growth will continue to fuel demand for housing, particularly in the affordable segment.

He said Inflation has soared from 11.25% in 2019 to over 28% in 2024, with construction inflation exceeding 300%. The devaluation of the naira—falling from ₦360/$1 in 2019 to nearly ₦1,500/$1 in 2024—has further compounded the crisis. Developers who relied on imported building materials now struggle with rising costs, making it difficult to complete projects on time and within budget.

The Asaba-based developer,described the struggle: “A project we planned at ₦250 million in 2023 now requires over ₦600 million to complete. Many developers are stuck between defaulting on delivery or absorbing losses that could collapse their businesses.

Otoma said that as inflation continues to rise, many buyers who initially invested in properties under construction are experiencing prolonged delays or requesting refunds. Developers unable to complete projects on time are forced to renegotiate terms or offer alternative financial arrangements. In Asaba and Abuja, a survey of major developers reveals that nearly 63% of construction projects initiated between 2019 and 2023 remain incomplete, with several abandoned altogether.

Despite the downturn, he believe that innovative solutions can help the real estate market stabilize. Some developers are exploring index-linked pricing models, where costs adjust with inflation, while others are shifting toward locally sourced building materials to reduce reliance on imports.

Otoma believes government intervention is crucial: “Without policy support—such as lower interest rates for real estate financing or incentives for local material production—the sector will continue to struggle. Developers need relief to complete ongoing projects and restore confidence in Nigeria’s property market.”

The Nigerian real estate sector, once a beacon of investment security, now faces its toughest period in recent history. Inflation, economic instability, and a declining naira have made property development a high-risk venture for both developers and homebuyers. While some companies are adapting to the challenges, the future of real estate investment in Nigeria will depend largely on economic recovery, financial innovation, and stronger regulatory frameworks.

For now, developers are bracing for what could be another challenging five years—unless drastic changes occur to stabilize the industry.

Happy birthday to International Sports Icon of our time

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Happy birthday to International Sports Icon of our time

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Dr Freddie Henry- Ajudua

Today, we celebrate not just your birth, but also your incredible contributions to the sports landscape of our great nation (Nigeria) and the world . Your unwavering dedication and commitment to mankind,make you an inspiration to young people in sports world. Your leadership skills and visionary mindset have paved the way for aspiring leaders, showing them that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

Dr Freddie Chukwuyem Henry-Ajudua,you have been a pillar of support for countless individuals who aspire to make a difference in our society. Your guidance and mentorship have empowered young leaders to step forward and take charge. Your ability to connect with people from all walks of life, regardless of their background or affiliations, is truly remarkable. Your inclusive approach to Sports has brought about positive change and unity within Sports world. Dr Ajudua is one of those very few good men; a true philanthropist, an accomplished Sports Icon, a Medical Doctor, a perfect gentleman, a man of valour, the bringer of rain. In the gallery of great leaders and great men, he is without doubt, a rare masterpiece.

Dr Ajudua is still celebrating his birthday to put the epochal celebration in proper perspective, he has joined the club at the exciting peak and the proper prime of his mercurial powers where, poised like the bronzed champion, glowing flamboyantly in the golden flame of his prime, prepares himself to capture and conquer arguably, the one ultimate laurel for which his superlative gifts and brilliance clamour to be manifestly celebrated with maximum political aplomb woven into the matrix of an intrepid homogeneous ubiquity.

When great men celebrate, even the stars bow in solemn hallow. As Nigerian- American International Rugby Star Dr. Freddie Henry-Ajudua, Rugby Sports Icon who represented Nigeria at the Rugby World Cup recently is a man of immense mettle and a completely detribalized human being with a profound depth of character, whose humility, devoid of discrimination, embraces all and sundry, he soars like an eagle and exudes reverence and integrity. A pragmatic leader full of benevolence, he gives hope to the hopeless, Job to the jobless and welfare and succor to the poor and needy. To everyone who crosses his path, he is light. He is a friend to all, a role model to the young, a helper to many and a visionary man bubbling with the ideals of entrenching a united, peaceful, harmonious vision for his community and the world. Honest, transparent, dependable, uncomplicated and full of wisdom,Dr Ajudua can change you effortlessly, with his word.

Describing Freddie Ajudua as a child of circumstances with a great destiny is like stating the obvious. It is often said that some were born great, while others attained or achieved greatness. For Ajudua, it is a combination of being born great and working hard to attain greatness.

Dr Freddie Ajudua has packed in that relatively age, a record of achievements that is the envy of his peers. He is born to the great Ajudua dynasty of Obi( Dr) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua and Obi (Mrs) Vivian Ajudua  from Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, his parents, may not have imagined the great heights their then little child was destined for. But as the legendary Professor Chinua Achebe would say, a chick that will grow to be a cock is known the day it was hatched.

Indeed the birthday celebration of this Nigerian- American International Rugby Star Icon of our time had been useful and resourceful for his service to humanity. Therefore today let me on behalf of my beloved Ibusa kingdom in Oshimili North Local government Area of Delta State celebrate our iconoclastic Dr Freddie Chukwuyem Henry- Ajudua and thank Almighty God for adding another year to his life and to pray that God continues to bless him with robust health, protection, and enduring provision. Your reign shall bring prosperity and peace to Ibusa, Oshimili North, Delta State and Nigeria in general.

Brother, though even the sun will one day run out of fuel, our love for you shall last forever. we thank God each and every day for giving us a brother and Sports Icon like you. On your birthday, we want to thank you for being the best brother anyone could ever hope for. You are such a great role model for every brother in the world because you are so loving, caring, protective, and supportive.

Your legendary generosity and willingness to do good at all times is documented in the hearts of millions. That is why on your birthday, You deserves a toast and song, “Happy birthday to you…” Above all, You deserves a prayer from everyone who is on the side of truth in the eternal battle between truth and falsehood. Big Happy Birthday …

Asagba of Asaba hails Tinubu on Asaba-Benin Expressway, Niger Bridge …

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Asagba of Asaba hails Tinubu on Asaba-Benin Expressway, Niger Bridge …

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, has commended President Bola Tinubu over the commencement of the second Niger Bridge access road and the reconstruction of the Asaba-Benin Expressway.

Asagba Prof Azinge, in his remarks at the flagging-off ceremony on Monday, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, highlighted the benefits that the access road would bring to the communities it would transverse.

The first class traditional ruler said the road would not only stimulate the growth of the local economy, but also ease transportation and impact positively on farming activities.

He maintained that Asaba remained the fastest growing state capital in Nigeria and in Africa, south of the Sahara, stressing that the road would add to what Asaba already had.

Asagba Prof Azinge commended the federal and state government for working together to facilitate the road project and called for expedited action on the reconstruction of the Asaba-Benin expressway to make driving on it safe and pleasurable.

The Royal Father expressed gratitude to Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for the much he had achieved in less than two years in office, describing him as a progressive Governor with the interest of Deltans at heart.

FG Flags Off Access Road to Second Niger Bridge (Phase 2A), Reinforces Commitment to Infrastructure Development

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FG Flags Off Access Road to Second Niger Bridge (Phase 2A), Reinforces Commitment to Infrastructure Development

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

4th right, the representative of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the governor of Delta State Hon. Sheriff Francis, middle, the Hon. Minister of Works Engr. Nweze David, 3rd right, the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunso Olusesan Adebiyi and others in a group picture during the official flag-off of the access road to 2nd Niger Bridge connecting Delta State and Anambra State. Date: 24th March, 2025

The Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Works has officially flagged off the Construction of a 17.55-Kilometre Access Road to the Second Niger Bridge (Phase 2A) in Asaba, linking the South South Zone to the South East. This milestone event underscores the administration’s unwavering dedication to enhancing national road infrastructure and fostering economic growth.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Works Engr (Sen) David Umahi CON, FNSE, FNATE lauded the host State Government for its commitment to infrastructure development, emphasising that governance is about improving the lives of the people. He commended the Edo State Governor’s proactive approach to addressing road infrastructure needs, acknowledging the numerous ongoing projects, including three major flyovers in Warri town. “Your state is a construction site. You have demonstrated that leadership is about responsibility, not excuses. Instead of blaming the Federal government, you are taking proactive actions. That is highly commendable,” he stated.

Engr. Umahi further highlighted the Federal Government’s broader vision for road infrastructure, revealing that multiple strategic road projects are either ongoing or in the pipeline, nationwide. These include the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the Benin-Asaba Expressway, the Sokoto-Gusau-Katsina-Kaduna corridor, the East-West Road, the remaining section of Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway, amongst others. He assured that the 9-kilometre extension of the just-flagged off Reconstruction of the Benin-Asaba Expressway to the 2nd Niger Bridge requested by the State Government has been approved.

To ensure the security and sustainability of the newly constructed roads and bridges, the Government has implemented advanced surveillance measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras along the Access Roads and the Bridge. These cameras will be linked to the offices of the Governors of the concerned States to monitor activities and prevent vandalism. Additionally, the project will incorporate solar-powered streetlights to enhance visibility and security.

The Minister reiterated the administration’s commitment to prioritising inherited projects and delivering impactful infrastructure to Nigerians. He emphasised that under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, road projects nationwide are receiving unprecedented attention, ensuring seamless connectivity and economic progress.

“All major road projects inherited by Mr. President are ongoing. He has given them priority attention. This administration believes in continuity and results, not political excuses,” he stressed.
The project, he continued, is part of a broader national infrastructure strategy aimed at connecting key economic zones and improving transportation efficiency. The government has assured that funding is secured, with 30% of the contract sum ready to be paid, while strict timelines and performance monitoring will be enforced to ensure timely delivery.

The Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, while acknowledging the presence of dignitaries at the occasion, stated “It is an honor and privilege to stand before you today, representing His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This occasion is not just about flagging off a road project—it is a testament to this administration’s unwavering commitment to economic development, national integration, and infrastructure renewal.

“The construction of the Access Road is a major step towards strengthening our nation’s connectivity. This road will ease movement, facilitate trade, and enhance economic opportunities for the people of Delta, Anambra, and beyond. It is yet another proof that under this administration, infrastructure development remains a top priority for fostering economic growth and national unity. I want to, especially, commend the government and people of Delta and Anambra States for their collaboration in ensuring the success of this project. Your support and cooperation are crucial in making this vision a reality. Infrastructure development is not just the responsibility of the Federal Government requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, including the State Governments, Local Communities, and Private Sector Partners,” says the President.

The Governor added “To our esteemed contractors, I urge you to ensure the highest standards of quality and timely completion of this project. This is not just a road; it is a legacy of progress that will serve generations to come.”

He extended his gratitude to all present-the traditional rulers, community leaders, and all who have contributed in one way or another to the realisation of the initiative. “Your support and dedication to the success of this project reflect our shared commitment to building a better, more connected Nigeria.

As we look forward to its completion, let us all continue to work together for the development of our great nation,” Governor Oborevwori concluded.

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