Rivers

Diplomat Urges Merger Of Federal Character, Civil Service Commissions

Published

11 years ago

August 11, 2014

A retired diplomat, Am
bassador Spiff Micah. K. Taribo, has canvassed the merger of the Federal Character Commission and the Federal Civil Service Commission for efficient service delivery and cost efficiency in public administration.
This position was canvassed in his latest book titled, Federal Character Principle and Destiny of Nigeria, launched at the weekend at Delta Hotels in Port Harcourt to mark his 80th birthday.
The author, a former commissioner in the Rivers State Civil Service Commission and also the Federal Character Commission, posited that the merger will help in correcting institutional errors, and maladministration in federal service, noting that no much impact has been made after 17 years of implementation of federal character principle in Nigeria.
Taribo faulted the implementation of the Federal Character principle, noting that there were glaring inconsistencies in its operations which have hampered the smooth operation of the Nigeria’s multiethnic setting and federal structure.
He pointed out that the scramble for slot has led to racketing in federal civil service recruitments adding that it has undermined the objective of the federal character principle.
In his remark, the chairman of the event, Ambassador Isaac J. Sagay, commended the author for the book, and expressed hope that the corrective measures advocated by the author would help in shaping the Nigeria federal structure and enhance equitable distribution of positions among the various component groups that form the Nigerian state.
Also speaking, the Senator representing Rivers East Senatorial District, Senator George Sekibo, described the author and celebrant as a distinguished statesman who has used his creative intelligence, logical reasoning and diplomacy to impact positively on the development of the Nigerian state.
A former colleague of the author, at the federal character commission, Elder Bob Francis Ozaka also commended the author for writing the book.
Ozaka who is presently the chairman civil service commission in Bayelsa State, noted that lack of proper implementation of the federal character principle has constituted a threat to national unity in Nigeria.

Taneh Beemen

Rev. K. T. P. Odikibo (right) in a hand shake with Editor, Rivers State Newspaper Corporation, Mr Soye Jamabo (3rd right), during the thanksgiving of Mr Soye Jamabo at St. James’ Anglican Church, Ogoloma District, yesterday. Photo: Egberi. A. Sampson

Rivers

Fubara Restates Continued Support For NYSC In Rivers

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in the state.

He gave the assurance during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch A Stream I corps members on Friday at the Permanent Orientation Camp, Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area of the state.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, the Governor emphasised that no nation could develop or attain greatness without harnessing the potential of its youths, who are the leaders of tomorrow.

He assured the corps members that the ongoing renovation and upgrade of facilities at the camp would soon be completed.

The State Governor also stated that new infrastructure would be constructed to accommodate the increasing number of corps members deployed to the state.

The NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Moses Oleghe, thanked the Governor for constructing a 1,000-capacity hostel accommodation for both male and female corps members at the camp.

Oleghe announced that a total of 2,638 corps members, comprising 1,007 males and 1,631 females, had completed their registration, while more than 300 corps members were yet to register.

The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Chibuzor Amadi, who was represented by another judge, Justice Chika Mini.

Theresa Frederick & Charity Amiso

Rivers

Health Comm Charges Youth To Take Advantage Of Innovation Hub

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, has called on adolescents and young people in the state to take full advantage of the newly established Adolescents and Young People Innovation Hub Centre, urging them to prioritize the acquisition of entrepreneurial and life skills that will empower them economically and support informed life choices.

Dr. Oreh made the call while commissioning the Innovation Hub Centre located at Fimie-Ama Community in Port Harcourt Local Government Area (PHALGA).

She disclosed that the Hub, which features ICT and robotics rooms, app development and media studios, beauty and vocational training spaces, wellness and counselling services, and a food technology unit, reflects a deep understanding of the diverse needs of adolescents and young people in society.

While applauding the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), in partnership with Project HOPE, for initiating the laudable programme, the Commissioner noted that the Rivers State Government recognizes youth empowerment through skills acquisition, confidence building, and access to opportunities as a cornerstone of sustainable development, social stability, and economic growth.

She further assured of the continuous support of the Rivers State Government in creating an enabling environment for programmes that empower young people, promote innovation, reduce vulnerability, and contribute to overall socio-economic transformation.

Speaking earlier, the Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria, Dr. Charles Olalekan Mensah, said the establishment of the Innovation Hub Centre is aimed at empowering young people with relevant skills and providing opportunities for long-term growth.

He added that the successful realization of the Hub is the result of strong leadership, strategic partnerships, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

In her goodwill message, the Country Director of the CDC, Nigeria, Dr. Meghna Desai, represented virtually by the Deputy Director, Programmes, Dr. Jerry Gwamna, described the Hub as a safe space for the holistic development of adolescents and young people.

She noted that the initiative will equip beneficiaries with critical entrepreneurial, technical, and life skills that reduce vulnerability and promote economic independence, including for young people living with HIV/AIDS.

Rivers

Andoni Chair Assures Safety After Cult-Related Attacks In Oyokotoro

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

The Chairman of Andoni Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Lucky Promise-Otuo, has assured residents of Oyokotoro fishing settlement of their safety following recent cult-related attacks and threats to peace in the area.

In a statement he personally signed, Hon. Promise-Otuo disclosed that proactive measures have been put in place to prevent a breakdown of law and order. These include the deployment of security personnel to Oyokotoro and surrounding communities.

The Council Chairman stated that his administration is working closely with the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to address the situation and prevent future occurrences.

He strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as unacceptable and a serious threat to the peace, safety, and the livelihoods of residents.

Hon. Promise-Otuo warned those responsible for the attacks to desist immediately, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the LGA, assuring residents, visitors, and business operators of their safety.