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.”

NOSDRA Affirms Commitment to Environmental Regulation in the Petroleum Sector, Says Engr Woke

The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) is steadfast in its commitment to enforcing all environmental laws, regulations, and guidelines in Nigeria's vital petroleum sector. 

This commitment was articulated by Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, Director-General/Chief Executive of NOSDRA, during a courtesy visit from the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS) at the Agency’s Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday. 

During the visit, OPTS Executive Director Mr. Gwueke Ajaifia extended congratulations on Mr.Woke's recent appointment, emphasizing that this achievement reflects the government’s confidence in his leadership and wishing him a successful tenure. 

Mr. Ajaifia noted that the purpose of the visit was not only to congratulate the DG/CE but also to facilitate introductions and explore potential areas of collaboration between NOSDRA and OPTS, which comprises 25 indigenous oil companies and five foreign operators in Nigeria. 

He emphasized OPTS's commitment to prioritizing environmental conservation within the petroleum

industry, seeking a collaborative relationship with NOSDRA, which plays a crucial role among regulatory bodies due to its statutory mandate in environmental management and pollution control. 

Addressing key challenges such as pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, insecurity, and excessive taxation, Mr. Ajaifia recognized NOSDRA as a vital partner in fostering a regulatory environment that upholds acceptable standards and international best practices to attract investment in the sector.

The DG/CE of NOSDRA, while expressing gratitude for the congratulatory messages and well-wishes from the OPTS team, acknowledged the strong cooperation that has developed between the agency and the association over the years. He assured the OPTS that his agency is committed to maintaining and enhancing this collaborative spirit, expressing optimism for a significant improvement in their working relationship.

“As a major stakeholder, we have no choice but to partner with your association,” he stated. The DG/CE emphasized that while the primary objective is to maximize oil and gas production to stimulate robust economic growth in the country, the importance of ensuring environmental sustainability—NOSDRA's core mandate—cannot be overlooked.

The DG/CE criticized the indifferent attitude of certain OPTS members towards attending invitations from NOSDRA regarding complaints from host communities about oil pollution issues. He expressed concern, stating, "As an agency, we need to address the neglect from some of your members in responding to our invitations concerning these critical issues."

He highlighted that NOSDRA is often the closest agency involved when such matters arise, and neglecting to engage with the agency can escalate tensions with communities and may lead to sanctions from regulatory authorities.

The DG/CE emphasized that under his leadership, ignoring invitations from NOSDRA will no longer be tolerated among non-compliant oil companies.

He urged OPTS to undertake community education and outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness about petroleum-related crimes, such as pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, and illegal bunkering. He stressed that these efforts are essential for effectively addressing these issues and promoting social harmony in oil-producing communities.

The DG/CE acknowledged that the current challenges facing Nigeria's petroleum industry, particularly crude oil theft and illegal bunkering, were not anticipated when NOSDRA was established. This has led to significant difficulties in addressing oil spills resulting from third-party interference or sabotage.

He noted that the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is diligently working to close regulatory gaps and strengthen enforcement measures to tackle these pressing issues. Additionally, he pointed out that enhancing inter-agency collaboration is crucial for effectively addressing crude oil theft and similar challenges.

The DG/CE expressed optimism that closer cooperation among key stakeholders—including NOSDRA, oil companies, and host communities—will play a vital role in overcoming these challenges.

do Unity Forum showers encomiums on Okpebholo, says PDP has lost its direction

The Edo Unity Forum (EUF) on Friday showered encomiums on the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing him as a great asset to the state.

“Out of those jostling for the Edo State governor’s seat, it is doubtful if any of them is more focused, committed and level-headed like the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo’’

The group in a statement in Auchi said that APC will convincingly coast home to victory in the September 21 governorship election.

“The PDP is suffering from factional divisions, problematic shallowness and lack of meaningful engagement with ordinary citizens. The party has lost its direction. The APC is solid in Edo State. The party’s candidate has heavyweights and traditional institution on his side and will coast to electoral victory.”

Signed by EUF National Chairman, Deacon Solomon Izevbigie, the group made up of business bigwigs, political leaders, senior civil servants, academics and members of civil society from Edo State denounced the PDP government for the breakdown of infrastructure in the state.

“We want honest, transparent and accountable leadership in Edo State. We want a governor we can trust. We want a governor with energy, vision for the rapid development of the state and dynamism to tackle challenges. Senator Monday Okpebholo wants to drive Edo State in the direction of economic growth, rehabilitate moribund industries and alleviate the suffering of the people.’’

The statement underscored Opebholo’s deep love for Edo State, his excellent dedication to duty and sincerity of purpose.

“Senator Monday Okpebholo is an embodiment of sincerity, a lover of the downtrodden and a very compassionate gentleman.”

On the expectations of Edo people at home and abroad, the group said Okpebholo would pursue appropriate policies, create jobs, fight corruption, uphold the virtues of human rights, improve manpower development and our health care delivery system, guarantee equal opportunities and rekindle in the citizenry a faith in their fatherland’’.

The statement also emphasized Okpebholo’s pedigree in politics, administration and management of resources.

“Senator Monday Okpebholo will devote attention to the welfare of senior citizens, comply with the Beijing Manifesto and give consideration to the spread of development projects”, the group said.

 

 

 

NOSDRA DG tasks oil firms on regulations compliance, says nobody is above law

The Director General and CEO of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Engineer Chukwuemeka Woke has put oil companies on notice, tasking them to comply with environmental regulations or face the full force of the law.

 

Speaking during a familiarization visit to the Port Harcourt Zonal headquarters in Rivers State on Monday, Woke, while reacting to some of the challenges faced by the Agency in the Zone said as an agency established by Act of law, NOSDRA represents the Federal Government and has a sacred mandate to regulate the oil industry's environmental impact and will not tolerate any form of non-compliance or disregard for regulations.

 

He added that no oil company is above the law, saying: "We will hold every operator accountable for their actions, and ensure that they adhere to the strictest standards of environmental responsibility." 

 

He assured that his leadership will not be compromised by vested interests or industry pressure, or be cowed, saying he is committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all oil industry operators, including International Oil Companies (IOCs), comply with NOSDRA's regulations.

 

He said: "Having said that, let me address the issue raised by the head of the NOSDRA reference laboratory, I want to assure you that I am not the kind of DG that any oil company would take for a

ride. 

 

"Any oil industry, be it IOCs, or anybody must comply with the regulations of NOSDRA. NOSDRA is not just a private company but an establishment by an Act of law and so we represent the Federal Government and we are to regulate the operations of the oil industry as it relates to oil and gas pollution and spillage and so nobody, no oil company is above the law. 

 

"If they want to think they can reach me, I am not the type of DG that they would reach. So let the message go very clearly now, we must do the needful, they must grant you access to take samples and we must get the results. Be rest assured that you are protected as long as you are committed to your work."

 

The DG also addressed the staff of the agency and assured them of his commitment to taking the agency to the next level.

 

Engineer Woke was conducted around the office by the Zonal Director, Engineer Ime Ekanem and the head of the NOSDRA reference laboratory, Dr Kenneth Aroh where he visited the Analytical Session Lab; Microbiological lab, Ecotoxicology lab and the Web-Chemistry lab.

 

He expressed gratitude to the staff for their dedication to work and promised improvements in equipment and staff welfare.

 

"I have come to see things for myself, and I assure you that there will be improvements," he said. "But I need your commitment to work because your productivity output is what I will be appraised with at the Ministry of Environment."

 

Engineer Woke emphasized that he is the one who will appraise staff performance and determine promotions. "When you come for your promotion exams, I am the one who will say yes or no," he stated.

 

He also reminded staff that outside the agency, he is not the boss, but the Minister of Environment is, saying: "So, it is your work that will speak for me," he added.

 

Engineer Woke concluded by saying that his "real brothers" are those who are committed to their work, and he looks forward to seeing their productivity.

 

This visit marks Engineer Woke's first visit to any Zonal office since assuming office, and he chose Port Harcourt, his constituency, as his first.