The Errors We Considered As Help: The Reflection of an Ignorant Business Woman-Philanthropist

 

Not everyone is good in business. You may have the ideas and the set up but when you fail to strictly employ those who'd work under you, whether for you or with you, then you have just failed like myself.

 

I have made repeated mistakes while running my printing and publishing business! I engaged in the services of relations and friends who only needed help and not professionals trained for the job. Over the years, I thought that being gifted with the passion to help or to give was enough reason to bring people into my flanks. In some cases, I assigned responsibilities to people without the requisite capacity and so it was a circus trying to get results, with me overworking myself to get the desired results. 

 

This notwithstanding, I also encountered some very professional guys like Ifeanyi Aniche who proved his mettle over time as a graphic designer for my Newspaper and Magazine production. I also met Polycarp Oriloye a dedicated professional videographer. I also took along my late graphic designer, Kazzim Ismaila to Dubai to produce a project for the former First Lady in 2014. 

 

Unfortunately, efforts to pay house rents, children's school fees, feeding of a whole family, clothing, birthday celebrations, regular hospital bills for their families, taking up daily bills of some of the people I brought in under sympathy grounds - some of those who expected to partake 50% of my profit and coming from those who joined after I had sent them for training at the NIIT and even to get training on the job in Lagos; still demand a monthly pay, even when there was never such discussion or engagement. 

 

I just realised my foolery! I'm thinking that my overdose of philanthropy was more important than whatever stipends. Guys, this is the blunder I committed and probably still committed till date. 

 

On the other hand, I have also worked unsolicited for high profile Politicians without defining exactly what my take home would be. It was a matter of momentary desperation or excitement and willingness to help with my creative ability in the media and strategic communications. 

 

Sometimes, I remained undercover, dishing out ideas and holding forth until we shouted Victoria Ascerta! Very many in today's media space do not know how we arrived at the 1986 PDP Governorship primary results and the eventual government. I am still hoping to mend fences with the likes of Rt Hon Austin Opara and Celestine Omehia, Esq. I am hoping that some of the journalists or popular hosts on National Television like Charles Aniagolu, Seun Okinbaloye, Dr Abati, Sumner Sambo, Femi Akande, BKO and the Journalist hangout crew, Rufai Oseni, Ojy Okpe amongst others would put me on the hot seat to tell how we won the ten month legal battle in 2007!  I can only hope that my book will be out in earnest. 

 

Back to the issue, moving forward, for every political leader and all other entrepreneurs, try to organise your circle strictly for business.

 

We have been told to "open our hands", but the progenitor of this saying, Chief Nyesom Wike has not told us how wide those hands should be opened! It almost seems that we should widen our hands until it reaches the elastic limit, not minding family pressures that are hardly under the ring light. 

 

I have chosen not to blame anyone who refuses to yield to my standard of reward and expectations. I have decided henceforth to name my price as a professional journalist and media consultant to avoid pro bono services or wild expectations. I hope some of you in my predicament are learning something now. 

 

No blaming anyone for my carefree support and my foolishness. I am correcting that mistake now with a new arrangement -define my job scope and define my fees with T & C. 

 

If you win tomorrow, you can do without me. That's not going to hurt! At least, I was paid for professional services rendered.

 

We fall so that we can rise with more experience to do better. 

 

May this foolishness come to an end!!!

 

Written By Oby Christie Ndukwe

 

Ughelli South Leaders Heap Praise on Oborevwori

Political stakeholders in Ughelli South on Thursday praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his leadership and economic vision.

“Delta will continue to achieve new heights.”

They also described Governor Oborevwori's performance as excellent.

“Under your Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, Enhanced Peace and Security Agenda, Delta State has achieved remarkable milestones.”

At a meeting in Okwagbe, the Ughelli South stakeholders lauded Oborevwori for strengthening State security and protecting Delta's interests.

They also applauded Oborevwori for the good roads and bridges, debt-free project execution, accountability, primary healthcare excellence and empowerment of students and women. .

The position of the Ughelli South stakeholders was read to the press by the National Coordinator of the Delta State Core Comrades for M.O.R.E AGENDA and Renewed Hope 2027, Comrade Emuesiri Kotor.

The stakeholders appealed to Oborevwori to reinstate the suspended Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Hon. Reuben Izeze Rume Yakubu.

“An Urhobo adage says "Two things don't happen to a person at once". The good people of Ughelli South have not recovered from the loss of Kotor Sunday, a man who brought high-level organization, distinct eloquence, and dignity to state-level events.”

Calling Oborevwori a listening father and a leader who values the heartbeat of the people, the stakeholders pleaded with Governor Oborevwori to look upon Okwagbe community with favour and reinstate Reuben Izeze to his position so that he can continue to serve as a champion of His Excellency’s great vision in Ughelli South.

“We are aware of the high standards of discipline that your administration demands from its public officials. We acknowledge the circumstances that led to this administrative action and humbly plead that you view this situation through the lens of a father, considering Reuben Izeze's capacity to mobilize the grassroots and his years of faithful service to the state.”

Reuben Izeze is known for his contributions to infrastructure development and youth advocacy while Sunday Kotor actively advocated for infrastructure and community progress within the Ughievwen Kingdom and Okwagbe Waterside in Ughelli South Local Government Area, fostered communal harmony, resolved local disputes and mentored younger generations in grassroots politics and public service. He tragically passed away in March 2026.

Particularly, the stakeholders commended the governor for his careful utilization of scarce resources, inclusive strategy, job creation, human capital development programme and infrastructure in Okwagbe, especially the inner roads.

“We remain resolutely committed to delivering the Ughelli South vote to APC in 2027.”

 Credit: Henry Ovie

 

 

I’m Certain of Victory - Delta South ADC Senatorial Candidate, Dr Austin Orette

.....Says He Is the Best Man for the Job

 

Dr. Austin Orette is a Nigerian-American Family Medicine Physician and politician. He is actively running as a candidate for the Delta South Senatorial District seat in Nigeria's upcoming 2027 National Assembly Elections.

In this interview with journalists in Lagos, Orette speaks on his aspiration and how he intends to win the 2027 election

Why did you move from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)?

My decision was based on principle, not personal bitterness. Every politician deserves a level playing field. I believe political parties must uphold transparency, fairness, and internal democracy. Unfortunately, my experience in the NDC did not reflect those values. After careful consultation with my supporters and stakeholders, we decided to move to a platform where our vision can flourish and where the people's mandate can be respected.

Do you have regrets joining NDC?

I do not regret the experience because every experience teaches valuable lessons. Politics is a journey of learning and growth. While things did not turn out as expected, I have become wiser, stronger, and more determined to serve the people.

What political party are you now? 

I am proudly a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party that believes in good governance, inclusion, accountability, and giving credible Nigerians the opportunity to serve.

Why did you choose to contest on the platform of ADC?

The ADC provides the environment where ideas matter more than influence and where service comes before personal interest. I believe it is a platform that gives room for competent individuals with genuine intentions to contribute meaningfully to national development.

Would you recommend that a new convert be made a bishop of a large church?

Leadership is not merely about enthusiasm; it is about preparation, competence, integrity, and proven capacity. Whether in the Church or politics, people should be entrusted with responsibilities based on character, ability, and readiness. Experience is valuable, but competence and vision are equally important.

Why is it difficult for you to seek election into lower positions? 

Leadership is about purpose, not hierarchy. I have spent years building leadership capacity in business, community development, and humanitarian engagements. I believe the Senate provides the platform where I can make the greatest impact for Delta South through legislation, oversight, and effective representation.

What would you attribute to your unsuccessful brush with politics?

Every setback is preparation for a greater comeback. I do not see my previous experience as failure. It strengthened my resolve, expanded my political network, and taught me valuable lessons about the political process. Today, I am far better prepared than ever before. 

Considering that politics in Nigeria is on a cash-and-carry basis, how do you intend to fund and actualize your ambition?

I reject the idea that money alone determines electoral success. Elections should be won by ideas, credibility, grassroots engagement, and the confidence of the people. We are building a movement supported by volunteers, supporters, friends, and well-meaning Nigerians who believe in our vision. Our campaign will remain transparent and issue-based.

Do you think you have the financial wherewithal to withstand the heat?

Politics should not become an exclusive club for the wealthiest individuals. While every campaign requires resources, I believe integrity, strategic planning, and public trust are equally powerful assets. We are confident that God, our supporters, and the people will provide the necessary support. 

People have argued that you are a greenhorn in politics. Some see you as a joker and dreamer. How do you intend to build confidence in people?

Every experienced politician was once a first-time candidate. Fresh ideas should never be mistaken for inexperience. My record in business, philanthropy, leadership, and community development speaks for itself. I am engaging directly with the people, listening to their concerns, and presenting practical solutions. Confidence is earned through sincerity, competence, and consistency.

Are you not intimidated by the senatorial ambition of the incumbent and other candidates?

I have great respect for every contestant because democracy thrives on healthy competition. However, I am not intimidated. Elections belong to the people, not to incumbents. I believe Delta South deserves choices, and I am presenting myself as one of those choices.

Why do you want to become a Senator?

I want to become a Senator because I believe public office is an opportunity to solve problems, not merely occupy a position. Delta South deserves quality representation that attracts development, empowers young people, supports women, improves education, healthcare, infrastructure, and creates opportunities for economic growth.

What specific agenda do you have for the people of Delta South?

My agenda focuses on five key areas: Quality education and skills development, youth employment and entrepreneurship, better healthcare services, infrastructure and rural development, economic empowerment through agriculture, technology, and support for small businesses. I also intend to ensure that every community in Delta South has a voice in the National Assembly.

Do you really have what it takes to accord robust representation to your people?

Representation goes beyond making speeches in Abuja. It requires accessibility, competence, integrity, and the courage to defend the interests of the people. I possess the professional experience, leadership qualities, and commitment necessary to represent Delta South effectively.

Do you have confidence in INEC and the judiciary?

As democrats, we must continue to support our institutions while encouraging continuous improvement. I believe INEC and the judiciary have important responsibilities in protecting our democracy. My expectation is that they will remain independent, transparent, and committed to justice throughout the electoral process.

 

 

National Single Window: Stakeholders Appraise Success in Port Harcourt 5 Months after Launch

The Operators of the National Single Window and other critical stakeholders gathered in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State Capital Thursday, August 27, 2026 to appraise the National Single Window project 5 months after it was launched on March 27, 2026. 

The stakeholder engagement was centered on HS Code Harmonization and Sea Manifest Implementation which they say would ensure a more efficient National single Window platform.

In his welcome remarks, the Acting Assistant Comptroller General  and Zonal Coordinator, Customs Zone C Headquarters Port Harcourt, ACG Pascal Chibuoke said he was highly honoured to welcome all the participants to Customs Zone C, for the interactive forum.

He hinted that National Single Window was a centralized electronic trade platform designed to streamline import and export processes.

He noted that the essence was about one platform, one submission and one clearance process for all the government agencies and regulators involved in trade facilitation.

According to him, the objective was to reduce costs, reduce time and ensure increased transparency.

The Customs Zone C, Boss insisted that technology alone would not drive the project hence he added that collaboration and commitment were needed.

He lauded the Port Harcourt gathering, noting it would provide a conducive environment for government agencies and regulators who set standards and ensure compliance, importers and exporters who move goods around the world, Customs Agents and Freight Forwarders who navigate the processes, Terminal operators, shipping lines and airlines who connect the nation to the world to voice out their challenges and concerns so as to make the project work.

He reiterated that their inputs would invariably determine how the operators of the Single Window project “will design, test and roll out” 

He paid a glowing tribute to the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR PhD, for his policy thrust on consolidation, collaboration and innovation even as he wished all and sundry an open, focused, time conscious and fruitful deliberations.

Speaking to journalists, the National Single Window Director of Operations, Mr. Peter Ekunkoya, said that the aim of the NSW is to streamline, automate and simplify all the import and export processes across all the MDs and private sector providers.

He noted that they have been on the project for a period of two and half years but added that the first roll out of the first phase was on March 27, 2026 making it 5 Months. 

On the essence of the gathering, he said that what they were doing was a continuous engagement of all the stakeholders to get their feedbacks.

"We started it immediately we clocked 3 months to understand how the platform performed, what are the issues they are dealing with, give you some context feedback perspectives and listen to your complaints so that we can go and address them," Ekunkoya said.

He went further to posit that  they want the key stakeholders to know they were not far away from them but always there to help.

"We are doing this, to let you know that we aren't far away from you, the key stakeholders and users. We are in tune with your challenges and also to provide or commit you to other things to expect for instance, the streamlining or simplifying HS Code we are doing and the phase 2 roll-out planned for December 2026.”

He appreciated the turnout, noting that the participants were professional in their approach and conduct which, according to him, has doused the initial tension that characterized the National Single Window initiative.

"I have good insight of some of the challenges presented  here today but others  I am  hearing for the first time. But we promise to tackle all of them” He said.

Continuing, he praised the Nigeria Customs Service and other sister agencies for their collaboration, including the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents ANLCA, NAGAFF , APFFLON and other Freight Forwarders for their understanding insisting the project would be faster,  better and more efficient for all the users.

The event featured discussion, Question and Answer section whereby most of the challenges, concerns and feedbacks were attended to.

Participants who spoke to the press were of the view that  the single Window initiative despite  initial challenges was a welcome development which according to them, apart from saving time and removing all bottlenecks hindering trade facilitation, would also ensure increased revenue generation by removing all revenue linkages association with cargo clearance processes.

Present at the event were, Customs Area Controller, Area 1, Command, Port Harcourt, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, PhD, Customs Area Controller Area 5, command, Ibeto Seaport and Terminal, Comptroller Usman Yahaya, Comptroller Martala Mu'azu Comptroller, Tariff and Comptroller Aondona Christopher Fanyam PhD Comptroller Modernization all from Customs Headquarters, Officers and Men of the Nigeria Customs Service, Zone C, Port Harcourt, Aminu Abdullahi Ma'Aji of the Single Window team, Sister government agencies such as NAFDAC, NDLEA, SON, NESREA,NAQs including, ANLCA Onne Seaport chapter Chairman Chief Ifeanyi Isikaku, NAGAFF Onne chapter Chairman Chief Anselem Ike Okechukwu, APFFLON Onne chapter Chairman Forwarder Kolawale Atanda among others.

 

By Bon Peters,

 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State

 

Restructuring: The Only Sustainable Path for Nigeria

 

The greatest challenge confronting Nigeria is not who occupies the presidency, who becomes governor, or who sits in the National Assembly. Our deeper problem is the structure of the Nigerian state.

Until we address that structure, we will continue to change governments without changing the conditions that keep our people poor, our regions underdeveloped, and our resources exploited without corresponding benefits to the communities that produce them.

The absence of genuine restructuring has created an over bloated government and an entrenched bureaucracy that rewards feudalism, dependency and indolence. Instead of empowering the component parts of the federation to develop according to their strengths and circumstances, we have created a system in which states and regions continually look toward the centre for survival.

That is not sustainable. Nigeria must become a country where its component parts compete in creativity, productivity, innovation and development, rather than compete for access to the federal centre and wait for Abuja to spoon-feed them.

The Niger Delta provides perhaps the clearest example of this structural injustice. The region produces enormous wealth for Nigeria, yet its people continue to struggle with poor infrastructure, environmental degradation, unemployment and inadequate connectivity.

Why should the federal government determine every major development priority in the Niger Delta? Why should communities that produce the nation's resources have limited control over those resources and their economic destiny?

Our development priorities should reflect our realities. Instead of concentrating enormous resources on projects designed primarily to strengthen already-developed centres, we should be connecting the Niger Delta to itself: Edo–Warri–Yenagoa–Port Harcourt–Uyo–Calabar–Ikom and other economically strategic corridors.

A properly restructured Nigeria would allow regions and states to identify their own priorities, mobilise their resources and develop solutions suited to their environments.

Some regions may choose large-scale urban expansion. Others may prioritise agriculture, technology, manufacturing, maritime development or environmental innovation. In the Niger Delta, our challenges require constructive engagement, technological innovation and development that respect our unique terrain and people.

We do not need a system that treats every part of Nigeria as though our circumstances are identical. We need a federation that allows diversity to become an economic advantage. Restructuring is therefore not about weakening Nigeria. It is about making Nigeria work. It is about creating a system where states and regions have greater responsibility for their development, greater control over their economic opportunities, and greater accountability to their own people.

The present arrangement has allowed an enormous central bureaucracy to become a gateway through which resources are distributed, political influence is accumulated and dependency is maintained. This has contributed to the continued underdevelopment of places like Delta State despite the enormous wealth generated from its soil, waters and people.

We must change that. We must build a Nigeria where no component part is condemned to perpetual dependency on another; where every region can harness its comparative advantages; where government is closer to the people; and where development is driven by competition, innovation and responsibility rather than political patronage.

Nigeria does not need another cycle of merely changing personalities while preserving the same defective structure. We need structural change. We need genuine federalism. We need restructuring.

The future of Nigeria cannot be built by continually expanding the centre. It must be built by empowering the components, unleashing their creativity and making every level of government responsible for the prosperity of its own people.

Restructure Nigeria. Empower the Regions. Unleash the States. Let the Niger Delta develop on its own terms. Restructuring is not a luxury. It is the foundation for a truly productive, competitive and prosperous Nigeria.

Dr. Austin Orette, an African Democratic Congress (ADC) Delta South Senatorial Candidate, Writes From Owhelogbo In Isoko North Local Government Area

 

RSUTH CMD Flags off Basic and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support Training

 

The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) has commenced a specialized training programme in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency response capabilities and enhance the clinical competence of healthcare professionals.

The programme was formally flagged off on Monday, August 24, 2026, by the Chief Medical Director of RSUTH, Professor Chizindu Dike Alikor, who stressed the importance of equipping healthcare workers with the requisite knowledge, practical skills and confidence to respond effectively to life-threatening emergencies.

Professor Alikor noted that the training is designed to sharpen participants’ ability to make critical decisions and administer timely interventions, particularly in emergency situations where prompt and appropriate action can significantly influence patient outcomes.

He disclosed that the first phase of the programme has commenced with 50 participants, with plans to extend the training to additional healthcare professionals in subsequent phases to ensure wider coverage and sustained capacity building across the hospital.

The Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr. Vincent Wachukwu, who was the Special Guest of Honour, performed the official flag-off, signalling the commencement of the training programme.

The opening session attracted a large gathering of healthcare professionals, including consultants and other medical practitioners from across Rivers State, underscoring the importance attached to advanced emergency care and continuous professional development within the state’s healthcare system.

The initiative further demonstrates the commitment of Professor Alikor-led management to continuous capacity development, enhanced emergency preparedness and the delivery of safe, timely and quality healthcare services to patients.

 

Grassroots Support for On-Going Ogoni Dialogue with FG is Overwhelming - MOSOP

 

The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has expressed strong support for the on-going dialogue between the Ogoni people and the Federal Government describing its support base as overwhelming and irrevocable. MOSOP says the organization's commitment to see a permanent resolution to the Ogoni problem is firm, strong and intense.

MOSOP President, Fegalo Nsuke, who spoke during an interview with journalists on Sunday (August 23, 2026) said the collective interest of the Ogoni people far outweigh personal interests and urged the Ogoni public to reject manipulative and misleading information designed to frustrate the goodwill of the Federal Government.

Nsuke said the expectation of MOSOP is not to get the federal government to solve all Ogoni problems. He said MOSOP is focused on getting the federal government to make the necessary compromises that allows the Ogoni people to design and structure an Ogoni-centric system that provides the environment to deal with critical issues affecting the future of the Ogoni people including job creation, security, health, infrastructure, education, electricity and so on.

"We do not need to be asking the government for jobs, we need to have a system that creates the jobs and that is the goal of the ongoing dialogue. We need a system that addresses our social problems including job creation, health, education, electricity and so on and not running to the government with all our problems in search of solutions. This dialogue will try to get the necessary concessions that enable Ogoni to develop its resources and get the right benefits from them" Nsuke said.

He stated unequivocally that MOSOP is fully mobilized to support the dialogue process and urged the Ogoni people not to forget yesterday and how self-seeking disagreements have hurt the collective efforts of the people to make progress. He further noted that external influences were misinforming the Ogoni public in order to frustrate the efforts of the Ogoni people to achieve a better life.

"We cannot continue to grapple with poverty, unemployment when the land we walk on everyday has the capacity to generate over $50million daily. Anyone deceiving us into protesting against current dialogue does not mean well."

"I can tell you that the government has not shown any signs of mistrust and the dialogue process is currently going well. The dialogue committee has submitted a fine report and the next phase is to see how best we can negotiate a good deal for the people."

"We must remain focused on the common good and not fall for cheap blackmail and manipulations. What is most important for our people at this time is to guide the on-going dialogue process and ensure that we make the best use of it."

"Let us not forget that it has taken us over 33 years to come this far. Being deceived to fight the process will be the most unpatriotic thing to do at this time especially because it has not been easy to initiate the ongoing dialogue process"

Nsuke urged Ogonis to be wise, accusing that external enemies and Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) whose survival depend on the sufferings and the struggles of the Ogoni people and therefore have ganged up against the dialogue in order to prolong the Ogoni conflicts.

"I want to call on everyone to give the Ogoni people the chance to resolve our problems ourselves. I am unfortunately very disappointed that people who have not questioned oil drilling in their locality are discouraging Ogoni people from the dialoguing with the Federal Government".

"No one should deceive you to think that there is a better alternative to dialogue. We should be grateful to the current government who have found it necessary to open discussions with us."

"This is a fine opportunity and people who have benefitted from our sufferings and deprivations should not deceive us into endless resistance. We must continue to engage and protect current dialogue because it is one good opportunity before us" Nsuke concluded