President Tinubu Must Avert A Sahara Energy War on Ogoni

The unfortunate story of the Ogoni repression has too many instances of avoidable mistakes. The first was the failure of the Nigerian government to take advantage of Ken Saro-Wiwa. The most recent is an attempt to foist Sahara Energy on Ogoni ignoring an express rejection of the company by the communities.

This time, Nigeria could lose the benefits of tremendous efforts we have made in convincing the Ogoni people to accept the idea of resuming oil production in the area.  Nigeria should not turn deaf ears to our rejection of a Nicodemously concocted deal between Sahara Energy and the NNPC which we outrightly rejected following the collapse of our dialogue initiatives. Like the mistake with Saro-Wiwa, rather than opt for a genuine dialogue to reach a compromise with MOSOP,  there are ongoing buying of signatures from the streets in search of some Ogoni endorsement claims.

Unfortunately, the strategy of Sahara Energy and the NNPC isn't different from that of Shell and General Sani Abacha who had the impression that state repression and mass killing of Ogonis will force Shell back to resume oil production in the area.

Sadly, the Ogoni people are today faced with a possible extinction - a crushing economy without employment opportunities, a devastated environment and an increasingly less educated and non-competitive youth population. These are conditions that would have been reversed to set Ogoni on a path of sustainable development had the government acceded to our proposals for peace and development.

Nigeria has rather been more concerned with the prospects for natural resource extraction, seeking the quickest means possible ro that goal and definitely, less concerned about the welfare of the people. The consequences had been a predominantly angry and frustrated Ogoni population that became more resistant to their tactics.

Nigeria's mistakes in the handling of the Ogoni issue especially the resort to kill anyone who speaks the language of Ogoni liberation, a language that has become associated with Ken Saro-Wiwa, have only made things worse, not just for the oppressed Ogoni people but also for the Nigerian state.

In the past three decades, Nigeria has lost at least $452 Billion in oil revenues (excluding revenues from gas sales). The country has remained in a vicious circle, dissipating energy on people thought to have the keys to the Ogoni oil and not making any progress. The current strategy is a continuum of Shell's divide and conquer strategy which sought to use some people against the population in search for an avenue to break the people's will and desire for a better life.

Billions have been expended on public relations (which could be as crude as bribery) without any progress to persuade the Ogoni people to trust the oil industry Rather than accepting MOSOP's peace building initiatives, the oil industry seems to prefer to take advantage of the hunger their policies have inflicted on the people, promoting division with hopes of a conquest.

The implication had been a deadlock. But the reality is that the Ogoni people, though not averse to development and genuine initiatives to resolve the issues, are continually faced with the threats of a desperate and manipulative Nigerian oil industry whose modus operandi is a divide and conquer strategy that deceptively persuade some few individuals to do their bidding.

Driven by desperation, greed and selfishness,  successive attempts of the NNPC to reenter Ogoni have ignored MOSOP's development proposals and chosen paths that only frustrate MOSOP's genuine peace plans for a mutually beneficial compromise that can pave the way for a resolution of all legacy issues. The unholy alliance between Sahara Energy and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) is a glaring case in point.

The NNPC/Sahara deal reflects a sad side of how our country treats its own people. The entire contract is lacking in transparency. Why is a Financial and Technical Services Agreement, FTSA, between a dominant party, the NNPC, and a private entity, Sahara Energy, appearing to have roped the NNPC into an unbreakable marriage? What is so particular about Sahara Energy that, even with the people's rejection, the NNPC appears bent on getting them through, a path that obviously will not work with Ogoni.

Sahara Energy has been unable to win the support of the Ogoni masses and never will, yet, the NNPC appears very desperate to stick to this company. Why is it so difficult to discuss a way forward given that Sahara Energy is obviously not acceptable to the Ogoni people? It is indeed very awkward that the interest of Sahara Energy, in this instance, appears to outweigh or supersede that of the NNPC and the Nigerian state.

In 2020, I, as president of MOSOP, filed a petition against Sahara Energy and the NNPC, to president Muhammadu Buhari who ordered an investigation. The former Inspector General of Police investigated the matter and in Sahara's response, they claimed only to be financial partners and not the operator. I demanded they stay away if they are unwilling to enter into an SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) that will accommodate the Ogoni interests. The case was rested.

Despite being fully aware of the position of the Ogoni People on the matter,  Sahara Energy has pushed on for an operatorship contract with the NNPC over OML 11 and wants to assume operatorship of the oilfields while actively evading the concerns and demands of the Ogoni people.

It should be very clear that Ogoni rejects Sahara Energy at this time and the resistance against Sahara will be massive at home and overseas. We cannot tolerate an existential threat as posed by Sahara Energy's backdoor moves to snatch away the sacrifices of some 4,000 Ogoni lives lost in the struggle to reclaim our heritage from Shell.

The Ogoni people have a legitimate right to peaceful living and Sahara Energy should not threaten that right.

Decisions that affect indigenous peoples must take the views of the people into consideration. This is a fundamental right in international law and we will expect our government to protect our rights to free, prior and informed consent in decisions that affect our lives.

The protection of our rights is a fundamental demand on our government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and we expect Mr President to halt the threat of another GENOCIDE in Ogoni posed by the unholy alliance between the NNPC and their smarthy Sahara Energy.



Fegalo Nsuke is president of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP). He wrote from Bori, Ogoni, Nigeria

The Abuse of Power: A Lesson from History And Need for Lasting Legacies

Throughout history, the abuse of power has led to devastating consequences, tarnishing the legacies of leaders and causing irreparable harm to individuals and societies. Leaders who abuse their power often forget that their position is transient and can swiftly shift, leading to accountability.

In ancient Greece, tyranny wasn't always viewed negatively. However, as time passed, the term gained a negative connotation, implying a ruler driven by personal gain and power. This concept has evolved over time, with philosophers like Aristotle defining tyranny as a sole ruler exercising power without accountability, often through force and coercion.

History is replete with examples of tyrannical leaders who suffered the inevitable consequences of their abuse of power. Joseph Stalin, Mao, Adolf Hitler, and Pol Pot are stark reminders of the dangers of unchecked power and the devastating impact on society. These leaders, driven by simplistic fantasies and grandiose visions, used charisma and rhetoric to manipulate and control their followers.

The consequences of abuse of power can be severe. Leaders who abuse their authority often face personal consequences, including imprisonment and loss of reputation. Nelson Mandela, for instance, became the first black president of South Africa after spending 27 years in prison, forgiving his captors and working towards national reconciliation. Similarly, Anwar Ibrahim took over as Malaysia's prime minister in 2020, two decades after being imprisoned on trumped-up charges by his former ally.

In Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo's story serves as a powerful reminder. He was convicted by a military dictator and imprisoned but later became president, taking over from the same military junta that had wronged him.

The psychological impact of political abuse is similar to interpersonal abuse, generating complicated relationships between the abuser and victim. Trauma studies demonstrate that even brief exposure to abuse profoundly alters social perceptions and relationships. 

To prevent the recurrence of political victimization, it's crucial to recognize the signs of abuse and resist manipulation. We must employ strategies to maintain complex world views, stay true to our core moral values, and seek multiple sources of information.

Ultimately, the abuse of power is a corrosive force that undermines democracy, destroys lives, and ultimately leads to downfall. As we reflect on history's lessons, let us remember that power is a trust held on behalf of the people, not a personal fiefdom. Leaders must prioritize the greater good, uphold justice, and respect the rights of all individuals.

Therefore, to T leave enduring legacies rather than ugly memories of abuse of power, leaders in a democracy should prioritize serving the people and promoting the greater good. This can be achieved by fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

Embracing Transparency and Accountability

Leaders should be willing to be held accountable for their actions and decisions. This involves being transparent in their decision-making processes, ensuring that information is accessible to the public, and being responsive to citizens' concerns rather than noting down critics as enemies. 

Promoting Inclusivity and Social Justice

Effective leaders recognize the importance of promoting social justice and addressing the needs of the marginalized communities in the society. They should strive to create opportunities for civic engagement, protect individual rights, and address systemic inequalities.

Empowering Future Generations

Investing in education, healthcare, and social welfare programs can have a lasting impact on future generations. Leaders should prioritize initiatives that promote the well-being and development of children and youth rather than pursuit of mondane satisfactions.

Leading by Example

Leaders should demonstrate integrity, ethics, and compassion in their personal and professional lives. By doing so, they set a positive tone for their administration and inspire citizens to do the same. Many who ended up as tyrants started out as saviours and appeared messiac. Examples of such leaders include, Adolf Hitler of Germany, who was initially seen as a saviour from economic crisis and political instability as Hitler's charismatic leadership and promises of national revival captivated Germany. However, he eventually became one of history's most infamous tyrants.

In the same mould was Joseph Stalin of Soviet Union who rose to power as a champion of the working class and a strong leader who could guide the Soviet Union through turmoil. His regime ultimately became notorious for brutal repression, famine, and purges. 

In Africa, we had the likes of Idi Amin of Uganda who initially gained popularity by overthrowing an unpopular government. However, his regime became infamous for brutality, ethnic cleansing, and economic mismanagement. 

Also, Pol Pot of Cambodia promised to create a self-sufficient agrarian society his rule resulted in the deaths of an estimated 1.7 to 2.2 million people, approximately 25% of Cambodia's population. 

In Venezuela, history has it that Hugo Chavez's initial popularity stemmed from his promises to address poverty and inequality. However, his rule became increasingly authoritarian, characterized by media censorship, suppression of opposition, and economic mismanagement. 

Mobutu Sese Seko of the then Zaire and now DRC presented himself as a national hero, overthrowing a corrupt government. His rule became marked by kleptocracy, human rights abuses, and economic decline.

On his part, Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, through his liberation movement fought against white minority rule. However, his presidency became characterized by authoritarianism, land seizures, and economic collapse. 

As for Nicolae Ceaușescu of Romania, he initially gained popularity for his independent stance against Soviet influence. His rule descended into cult-like personality worship, repression, and economic stagnation.

These are examples that illustrate how leaders who initially appear as saviours or messiahs gradually became tyrannical, often due to unchecked power, ideological extremism, or personal ambition. The need for leaders to lead by example if they want to leave behind lasting legacies cannot be over emphasized. 

Fostering Collaborative Governance

Building healthy partnerships with civil society organizations, community groups, and other stakeholders can help leaders develop effective solutions to complex problems. This collaborative approach promotes a sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens.

Honouring the Principles of Democracy

Ultimately, leaders should uphold the basic principles of democracy, respecting the rule of law, protecting individual freedoms, and ensuring that power is distributed equitably. By doing so, they leave a lasting legacy that benefits the country and its people.

Jane Addams, a pioneering social worker and peace activist, exemplified most of the above principles through her work at Hull House, a settlement house in Chicago. Her commitment to social justice, education, and community empowerment continues to inspire leaders today. As a leader, how will history remember you? The choice is ours to make while we are still in office before the power we so much cherish shifts. 

*Comrade James Ezema is a journalist, a political strategist, and public affairs analyst. He writes from Abuja

Ogoni Oil and the Sahara Energy's Playbook

Sahara Energy has had a good chance of being accepted as an operator for the Ogoni oil fields. In 2019, when the news first broke out about Sahara's interest and maneuvers to assume the operatorship of the oilfields, IMOSOP made frantic efforts to contact Sahara for a dialogue and was turned down.

 

The mindset suggested that the government had backed the deal between Sahara and the NNPC and any opposition against the deal would likely be crushed with the force of state.

 

MOSOP's eventual rejection of Sahara and their backdoor moves to usurp the benefits of the collective struggles of the Ogoni people were resounding and unequivocal. While we thought the matter had been laid to rest, we were shocked to learn of Sahara's antics to force its way into Ogoni despite the people's opposition.

 

A second opportunity came for Sahara following the development plan approved by MOSOP in September 2020, Sahara, again, had a chance and was offered another opportunity to come to the table for a discussion. As with previous initiatives, the offers fell on deaf ears. 

 

The attitude of Sahara and their disdain for dialogue over the issue compelled the orientation that Sahara may just be another Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, popularly called Shell, may be even worse. A company that thrives on backdoor moves to discuss issues that affect people's lives without any consideration nor respect for the concerns of the people, we reasoned, may just be another road to a worse genocide than we saw with Shell.

 

The Federal House of Representatives captured the fears of the Ogoni people and noted the unpredictability of Sahara Energy in a lawmaker's remark on one of Sahara's playbook:

"The government is involved in an under the ta­ble covert arrangements to auction OML 11 assets to the Sahara Energy Resource Limited for a paltry sum of $250 million as against the $1 billion offered by SPDC Limited"

 

To avert, and eliminate the risk of a Sahara Energy sponsored repression and genocide, the Central Committee of MOSOP met and resolved not to back any deal that hands down the operatorship of OML 11, which covers the Ogoni fields, to Sahara Energy.

 

MOSOP wouldn't mind if the Ogoni region is carved out of the block but we are not receptive to an unpredictable company like Sahara Energy whose attitude towards dialogue is damp and evasive.

 

The Ogoni experience had been extremely harsh and any company which displays any traits of Shell, being very evasive and relying on the powers of state rather than dialogue with the people is, in fact, certainly not likely to enjoy the reception of the Ogoni people.

 

Background of the Problem

 

Sahara Energy and several other companies are today seeking to take over the operatorship of OML 11, which encompasses the Ogoni region,  31 years after Shell's exit from the Ogoni oilfields.

 

The Ogoni region with over 200 oil wells remains the cash cow in OML 11 and untilI we find any contrary statistical data, the Ogoni oilfields are, to the best of my knowledge, the most prolific and profitable fields in Nigeria with a proven production capacity of 500,000 barrels per day. I have personally held that given the permeability of the Ogoni soil, the fields can do well over 1,000,000 barrels daily. Again I await an expert to prove otherwise.

 

Back to our main issue, the Ogoni fields had been operated by Nigeria's biggest oil producer, the Shell Petroleum Development Company (Shell) until 1993 when persistent civil unrest forced Shell to exit the area.

 

In an attempt to shut out the Ogoni protests, Shell, backed by Nigerian security forces clamped down on Ogoni civil rights campaigners and killed some 4,000 Ogonis in cold blood. The Ogoni people, however, sustained the struggle to this day.

 

That is the only reason why oil in Ogoni is today available for grabs. I hold that the Ogoni sacrifices are immeasurable and worth rewarding. No oil company should therefore contemplate neglecting  or shortchanging the interests of the Ogoni people with any political advantage they could have. 

 

An equally incontrovertible fact is that MOSOP led the Ogoni people in the struggle against Shell and won with Shell's exit from the area. Though that victory remains incomplete, as we are yet to see the real benefits come to the people, it remains a remarkable fit. So, what the oil industry is today, clamouring for was not available and wouldn't have been but for the sacrifices and resilience of the Ogoni people led by MOSOP.

 

The position of MOSOP is therefore fundamental in the resolution of the crises. 

 

First, MOSOP is trusted and for every action to be taken regarding the Ogoni oil, the Ogoni public wants the opinion of MOSOP.

 

Secondly, MOSOP has an express mandate, derived from the Ogoni Bill of Rights, OBR, to speak on the issues of Ogoni deprivations and so the voice of MOSOP is the resounding voice of the Ogoni people.

 

In this regard,  MOSOP has consistently maintained its readiness to support initiatives that are peaceful and beneficial for the Ogoni people and the Nigerian state, What MOSOP strongly detests is an attempt to resort to the use of repressive tactics similar to or worse than that of the 1990s.

 

Prospects for a Peaceful Resolution

 

In a show of its commitment to peace and development for Ogoni and our country,  MOSOP has published its development proposals. In simple terms, MOSOP's proposal called for a fair proportion of profits derived from natural resource extraction in Ogoni to be dedicated to Ogoni development. That should not  be too much to ask for a people who sacrificed 4,000 lives to take the oil from Shell. And that sacrifice could not have been made just for some oil company. The people have now become critical stakeholders. 

 

The MOSOP's proposal further spells out the terms of implementation to ensure transparency, accountability and goal attainment.

 

The unholy alliance between Sahara Energy and the NNPC to use backdoor political manoeuvres to force their way into Ogoni is therefore a threat to the peace of Ogoni. One thing MOSOP is strongly committed to is not to allow the peace of Ogoni to be taken away for pecuniary interests.

 

The Sahara Energy's Playbook to snatch away the rights of the Ogoni people to decent living and throw Ogoni back into crises is something we must all be determined to resist and defeat. Period.

 

 

Fegalo Nsuke is President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, MOSOP. He wrote from Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

 

Rivers: Total Energies E&P Donates 251 Solar Reading Lamps to Students

Total Energies E&P Nigeria Ltd weekend distributed 251 rechargeable solar reading lamps to students of host communities in Rivers who are preparing for Secondary School Certificate Examination.

 

The gesture is expected to assist their reading time in situations of power shortage.

 

Presenting the lamps, Managing Director of the company, Mr Matthieu Bouyer, reaffirmed the organization's readiness to develop the host communities, especially the welfare of children at the grassroots.

 

Our Correspondent also reports that the items were delivered on Friday at Akabuka in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers state.

 

Represented by Mr Godspower Nwachukwu, General Manager, Community Affairs, Bouyer said that the gesture was part of efforts to boost education in local communities.

 

According to him, the benefiting schools – Government Secondary School, Akabuka and Community Secondary School, Oboburu – were randomly selected through a credible voting by the donors.

 

”Total Energies remains committed not only to the provision of cleaner, cheaper and more accessible energy, but also to the sustainable development of its host countries and communities, especially the welfare of children.

 

”The company is particularly passionate about this as it aligns with our sustainable development drive, especially levers 4 and 5, which highlight the importance we place on the sustainability of the communities we serve and the way we care for the people.”

 

Responding, Mr Uti Uche, Principal, Government Secondary School, Akabuka, commended the company for the donation and advised beneficiaries to use the facilities to enhance their reading abilities.

 

One of the beneficiaries, Oki Emmanuel, who is the Head Prefect of Government Secondary School, Akabuka, thanked the donors for their kindness and promised to make good use of the facilities

 

 

 

Lt Col George Otonbara: Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation honours brave Nigerian Army Officer

Tributes have continued to be showered on Lt Col George Otonbara Ikoli as those who knew him lamented his demise, Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation is not an exception.

The Foundation in a statement in Lagos described Otonbara Ikoli as a valiant officer and gentleman.

“In solemn remembrance of the Nigerian Army C130 Hercules plane crash that occurred 32 years ago, we gather to pay tribute to a brave Nigerian Army Officer and noble gentleman.”

The statement signed by renowned lawyer, Antony George-Ikoli recalled the tragic afternoon of September 26, 1992, at Ejigbo, a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria that Lt Col George Otonbara Ikoli , a scion of the esteemed Ernest Ikoli Dynasty lost his life along with 158 of his comrades when he led them on what was supposed to be a routine training exercise.

It emphasized Colonel Ikoli’s bravery, sacrifices, leadership qualities and strong human connections.

“Lt Col Ikoli’s bravery and sacrifices as well as his parting words on that fateful morning ‘come what may, I will not abandon my men’’ remain etched in our hearts as an enduring symbol of courage and representative of the patriotic cloth from which he was cut.”

It also underscored happier memories during the days of Lt Col George Otonbara Ikoli’s life on earth.

“His memory remains evergreen as we cling steadfastly to recollections of happier times and ponder fleetingly on the good times that may have been. In our hearts and minds, he will remain a hero, soldier and gentleman for all eternity.”

University Don Advocates Gender-Based Agricultural Policies In Nigeria

A University lecturer, Dr Clara Ifeanyi-Obi, has called on government and policy makers in Nigeria to initiate gender-based Agricultural policies to encourage more women involvement in agricultural activities.

 

Ifeanyi-Obi, a Senior lecturer at the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers state made the suggestion at the monthly congress of the Organisation for Women in Science for Developing World, on Friday in Port Harcourt the Rivers State capital.

 

She said that initiating such gender-based policies would boost efforts to tackle challenges resulting from climate change which is fast threatening food security.

 

Ifeanyi-Obi, a guest lecturer at the congress, reviewed the status of gender in climate change related policies in the African Agricultural sector, particularly in Nigeria, Kenya and Malawi.

 

According to her, women constitute more than 60 per cent of the farming population in Nigeria “yet they have continued to suffer various forms of deprivations which have grossly affected them in terms of productivity.”

 

The lecturer outlined measures towards improving awareness on climate change-related policies in the African Agricultural sector as well as access to funding for women famers.

 

She noted that effective collaboration with climate-based agencies such as Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), and climate adaptive varieties would help reduce vulnerability to drought, flood, pest, diseases and other climate-related risks threatening the agriculture value chain.

 

“The gender responsive Agricultural System Policy (GRASP) Fellowship is a career development programme that targets mid-career African women in the policy field to catalyse the design and implementation of gender responsive agricultural policies across Africa.

 

“Funded by the United Agency for International Development (USAID), the fellowship is implemented by African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD).

 

“It is, therefore, necessary that findings and climate change-related projections by credible researchers be incorporated in government budgetary development to empower women in the agri-business sub sector,” she said.

 

By Bon Peters,

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

 

NOSDRA and SDN Express Joint Commitment to Enhance Environmental Stewardship in Nigeria's Oil and Gas Sector

 The National Oil Spill Detection Response Agency (NOSDRA) and Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), a non-governmental organization with its headquarters in the United Kingdom have expressed their firm commitment to consolidate on the gains of their ongoing partnership in the interest of clean and sustainable environmental management in Nigeria’s petroleum industry.

This assurance was given on Wednesday when the Executive Director of SDN, Adam Heal, and his team paid a courtesy visit to the Director-General/Chief Executive of NOSDRA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, in the Agency’s Headquarters in Abuja.

The DG/CE, who appreciated the congratulatory message from the Executive Director of SDN on his appointment, went down memory lane to recollect the long-standing working relationship with the NGO since 2013, which, he said, led to the support of the organisation in the formulation of the state-of-the-art and innovative tools for tackling pollution in the petroleum industry, including Nigerian Oil Spill Monitor,NationalGas Flare Tracker and the inchoate Methane Tracker.

Woke acknowledged that the toolshave helped in improving transparency and accountability  in the  oil and gas pollutions industry.

The DG/CE assured that his appointment would add value to NOSDRA and he would not be found wanting in this regard, adding that the Agency was irrevocably committed to sustaining the partnership with SDN in order to improve environmental management in the country’spetroleum industry.

Woke hoped the prototype Methane Tracker designed by SDN will vastly contribute to tracking

methane emissions in the oil and gas sector.

He stressed that NOSDRA had a clear mandate to ensure a clean and secure environment in the nation’s petroleum industry with the support of the NGO. 

While felicitating with SDN on the 20th anniversary of its operation in Nigeria, the DG/CE assured the NGO of NOSDRA’s willingness to support and enhance its works in the country. 

Earlier in his address, the Executive Director of SDN disclosed that the organization had been operating in Nigeria for the past 20years, providing monitoring and policy advisory work in Nigeria and economic diversification in the oil-bearing Niger Delta region.

He stated that NOSDRA had been a reliable partner with SDN for over a decade and with such collaborations, his NGO had collaboration with the Agency to develop valuable and innovative geospatial tools viz: Nigerian Oil Spill Monitor and National Gas Flare Tracker, which are being deployed for oil and gas pollution tracking and reporting respectively.

He mentioned other areas of support to the Agency to include involvement in the Ogoni   clean-up being handled by Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) in the area of testing soil and water samples.

Mr. Heal, while commending the DG/CE for his new vision for NOSDRA aimed at catapulting the growth and development of the Agency to new heights, said he was looking forward to more years of fruitful partnership between the two organizations.

 

20th Anniversary: National Network, Number One in Rivers, Affirm NUJ Zonal President, State Chairman, NAWOJ DNP

…National Network Newspaper Remains  Only Port Harcourt-Based Newspaper with Record of Uninterrupted Presence On Newsstands For 20 Years

National Network newspaper has continued to receive widespread acclaim as the 20^th Anniversary celebration train made its stop at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Moscow Road, Port Harcourt on Monday.

The event which was attended by members of the State Working Committee (SWC) and State Executive Committee (SEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) as well as the Deputy President of NAWOJ, Dr (Mrs) Lilian Ogabu-Okonkwo and her NUJ Vice President (South-South), Opaka Dokubo, highlighted National Network's tireless efforts in promoting objective reporting and uplifting the voices of marginalized communities. The NUJ leadership did not mince words, as they shared their thoughts while congratulating the newspaper on the enviable heights it has attained in 20 years of excellent journalism.

 

Welcoming the visitors, Chairman of NUJ, Rivers State Council, Comrade Job Stanley Job, expressed admiration for the newspaper's consistency over two decades, emphasizing that maintaining regular publication for 20 years is a significant accomplishment.

 

He reminisced about attending previous anniversary celebrations at the Silverbird and Hotel Presidential, noting that National Network has always remained steadfast in its operations. He commended the paper for providing a stable work environment for its staff, unlike other newspapers where employees are often left to fend for themselves.

 

According to him, some publishers are to blame for unethical practices among journalists, as the lack of adequate pay forces them to depend on what they can earn from events rather than focusing solely on reporting the news.

 

Comrade Job urged publishers in Rivers State to learn from the example set by National Network, praising it as a model of professionalism and transparency. "When it comes to newspapers in Port Harcourt, it's National Network first, and then the rest," he stated, adding that the newspaper’s recent humanitarian gestures to charity homes further cemented its reputation.

 

He pledged the continued support of the Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) as the celebration continues.

 

"National Network is number one among Port Harcourt newspapers. Your humanitarian gestures are commendable, and we're proud to associate with you.", he said.

Also speaking, Deputy National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Dr. (Mrs) Lilian Okonkwo-Ogabu, expressed delight in witnessing the success story of National Network.

 

She noted that having attended past celebrations; the memories remain fresh in her mind. Drawing a comparison, she remarked, "At 20 years, a person is ready for marriage, and reaching this milestone in business, especially in this part of the world, deserves applause."

 

Dr. Okonkwo-Ogabu highlighted the collective effort of the publisher, management, and staff in achieving this success. She also lauded the newspaper for surviving the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that its ability to endure such hardships is worthy of celebration.

 

Her words, "Surviving 20 years in this part of the world is remarkable. Your success is a testament to the management and staff's hard work."

Zonal President (South-South) of the NUJ, Mr. Opaka Dokubo, who also spoke at the occasion, commended National Network's consistency.

 

His words, "You've diligently nurtured this newspaper to this level, and we're proud of your achievement. Reaching this milestone is no small feat, and I must acknowledge your diligence in nurturing this publication to what it has become today."

 

He reaffirmed the newspaper’s position as the leading tabloid in Rivers State and expressed optimism for its continued success in the years ahead.

 

Earlier in his speech, Publisher of National Network newspaper, Rev Canon Jerry Needam, expressed his gratitude to the NUJ and highlighted the newspaper's achievements.

 

"We're proud to have two professors on our editorial board, and we've been working with them for 20 years. Our 20th-anniversary celebration will honor journalists in Rivers State who have done exceptional work”, he said, emphasizing that National Network is the only Port Harcourt-based newspaper with a strong website and Google AdSense, earning money in foreign currency.

The Publisher stated that the newspaper has previously observed milestones on its first, fifth, seventh, tenth, fifteenth, and eighteenth anniversaries, with this year's event marking two decades of operation.

 

He said the event will see journalists in Rivers State receive special recognition, signaling a shift in focus from honoring politicians to acknowledging the contributions of media professionals. He further emphasized the paper’s desire to appreciate colleagues for their continued dedication to the profession.

 

The Publisher expressed his unwavering commitment to journalism and his religious work, noting that he has no intention of retiring from either field.

 

He highlighted the newspaper's achievements, proudly stating that it remains the only Port Harcourt-based publication to have maintained an uninterrupted presence on newsstands for 20 years.

 

Rev Canon Needam urged fellow journalists to join in promoting this positive narrative, explaining that the visit to the NUJ was a deliberate step to seek cooperation and support beyond a formal written notice.

 

Also speaking, General Manager and Editor-in-Chief, Chris Konkwo, echoed the publisher’s sentiments, stating, "We're celebrating not because we're rich, but to encourage our colleagues, especially the younger ones, to persevere. Success in journalism isn't just about money; it brings name and respect."

 

He appealed to the government and public-spirited individuals to support National Network with an operational vehicle and printing press.

 

Chris Konkwo who also serves as the Chairman of the National Network 20th Anniversary Planning Committee, stated that the purpose of the visit was to inform them about the upcoming event, tentatively scheduled for September 30.

 

He expressed gratitude for their hospitality, noting that it would have been easy to decline the visit, especially given that it was a public holiday.

 

Chris Konkwo highlighted the unique challenges faced in publishing, particularly over a span of two decades, which only a fellow journalist could fully appreciate. He clarified that the celebration was not about wealth or self-promotion, but rather aimed at inspiring younger journalists to persevere in the profession. According to him, success in journalism is not solely determined by financial gains, but by the name and respect it brings.

 

He also emphasized that journalists have the potential to create their own opportunities, beyond relying on government jobs, and expressed disappointment that the younger generation had not yet fully taken over.

 

He concluded by saying that the true fulfillment would come when the next generation steps up to continue the work.

 

National Network newspaper’s delegation on the visit include the Vice Chairman of the Editorial Board, Rev (Prof) Faraday Iwuchukwu, Editor and Secretary of the 20^th Anniversary Planning Committee, Mr. Ken Asinobi and other senior editorial staff of the newspaper

Asue Ighodalo’s Victory Is Certain - Edo Professionals

***Reject Okpebholo, Akpata

 

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, on Wednesday received the full backing of leading activists, civil society groups, lawyers, journalists and political leaders from all parts of Edo State.

 

“Asue Ighodalo is the best man for the job. We’re looking forward to his election”, the professionals said.

 

 They also described the APC governorship candidate as dull, cold and colourless.

 

 “Asue Ighodalo is serious minded, purposeful, people oriented and a leader that understands what governance is all about.”

 

At a meeting to share perspectives and strategies on how to ensure the victory of the People Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, the professionals vowed to ensure the defeat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo in the September 21 governorship election.

 

 “Asue Ighodalo’s election is certain. The road ahead is so smooth.”

 

Edo State Professional spokesman and member of PDP Legacy Group, Mr. Humphrey Obanor, in a statement in Benin, said the professionals extolled the current governor of Edo State, Gowin Obaseki for building strong communities, generating growth and creating opportunities for the good people of Edo State.

 

“Senator Monday Okpebholo is not travelling well in public opinion polls, largely due to incompetence. He lacks a clear policy plan. His political appeal remains limited.”

 

The professionals praised Obaseki for fulfilling electoral pledges made, building roads, expanding business development and empowering the people.

 

“The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is very committed to the future of Edo State. Asue Ighodalo will make Edo State great.”

 

They vowed to resist all attempts to drag Edo State backward by enemies of progress.

 

“Greed and envy have set in to becloud the sense of reasoning of some individuals in Edo State. Most people see the APC candidate and his running mate as not possessing the  leadership character required to lead Edo State in this new age.”

 

The professionals scolded Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for assaulting the sensibility of the populace with mundane rhetoric.

 

They highlighted economic growth in rural communities, the welfare of workers in the state, investments in electricity, clean water and better health care.

 

They also emphasized a better educated, healthier and more prosperous Edo State.

 

“Nothing is more critical to our state’s future than urging the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to continue in Edo State.”

 

Asue Ighodalo is expected to cruise to victory in the September 21 governorship election.

 

 “We care about results. Asue Ighodalo’s standing in the polls is, in fact, formidable.”