Nation

THE STATES

Published

10 years ago

May 6, 2016

L-R: Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode and his wife, Bolanle, join the former governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke and his wife, Onari on stage as Duke performs at “An Evening of Jazz” with Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode in Lagos on Saturday night.

Adamawa

Sen. Abdul-Azeez Nyako (APC-Adamawa Central) has
introduced a soft loan programme for petty women traders in his constituency.
Flagging-off the programme in collaboration with Ideal Woman Loans and Saving Limited on Yola, Nyako said the measure was to enable the women boost their businesses.
He advised women in his constituency to form groups and liaise with the handlers (Loans and Saving Ltd) of the programme for a bigger assistance. The lawmaker also said he had obtained fertiliser and seedlings which would soon be distributed to farmer groups in the constituency.
“I also have a special youth empowerment programme coming up in September,’’ Nyako said.
The Head of Ideal Woman Loans and Saving Limited, Hajiya Hauwa Abdullahi, said more than 500 women from 29 women groups had benefitted from the first phase of the programme.

Benue

Workers in Benue have called on the state govern
ment to lift the embargo on employment and to pay workers all their outstanding salary arrears.
The workers made their demands through the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) in the state, Godwin Anya.
The NLC boss spoke at the May Day rally in Makurdi.
He restated workers’ dedication to duty and hard work in the implementation of government policies and programmes.
Anya, however, urged government not to shy away from the issue of workers welfare which he said had been neglected.

Borno

The Nigerian Army said that it had commenced large
scale operations to smoke out Boko Haram terrorists from their Sambisa forest hideout in Borno.
Maj.-Gen. Lucky Irabor, the Theater Commander Operation Lafiya Dole said this while briefing newsmen in Maiduguri. “I want to inform you that troops of the Operation Lafiya Dole are conducting operations in the heart of Sambisa as we speak. “The troops are deep into the forest to smoke out Boko Haram terrorists,” Irabor said.
He said that the troops were led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 division of the Nigerian Army Maiduguri Brig.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu.
“In fact the GOC 7 division is leading the operations,” Irabor said declining to give further details.

FCT

The Federal Government has restated its commitment
to the exploration of oil and gas in the Inland Basins, especially Chad Basin and the Benue Trough.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe kachikwu said this in a statement issued by Malam Garba Deen Muhammad, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division in Abuja.
It said the NNPC through its Frontier Exploration Services and Renewable Energy Division (FESRED) had progressed reasonably with seismic acquisition activities in the Chad Basin frontier area.

Gombe

No fewer than 7,000 patients, including children, have
benefited from a free medical service provided by Rep. Inusa Abubakar.
Abubakar, who represents Deba Federal Constituency, disclosed this to journalists while fielding questions on his constituency project in Gombe.
The lawmaker said the gesture was part of the dividends of democracy he promised his constituents.
Abubakar, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Federal Road Safety (FRSC), said: “We invited an NGO to provide free medical treatment to about five to seven thousand patients.

Jigawa

The Jigawa Consumer Protection Committee (CPC) said
it confiscated 49 fake standard measures (Mudus) from grains sellers in the state.
Its Chairman, Alhaji Farouk Abdallah, disclosed this via telephone interview with our correspondent in Dutse.
Abdullahi said the items were seized from the traders when members of the committee paid an unexpected visit to Guri market in Guri Local Government Area of the state.
He noted that the action was to check lack of uniformity of mesures in all the markets in the state, adding that “the action would also provide consumer protection”.
The chairman added that it was also to sanitise the business environment and ensure accuracy in all commercial transactions in the state.

Kogi

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved N20
billion as bailout for the Kogi Government.
The state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, announced this in Lokoja while addressing a rally held by Organised Labour to mark this year’s May Day celebration.
Bello explained that the N20 billion was the first tranche of the N50 billion applied for to clear salary arrears of the state and local government workers.
He blamed the delay in the release of the fund on the last administration, saying that the application submitted by his predecessor was shoddily done and fraught with irregularities.
“We had to start from scratch. We are glad to announce that our efforts have paid off. This week, we received approval to draw down on the first tranche of our Bailout Funds from the Federal Government”.

Kano

The National Association of Resident Doctors of Ni
geria (NARD) has shifted its planned nationwide strike by two weeks. The strike that was to commence on April 25 will now begin on May 9.
The National President of the association, Dr Muhammad Askira, made the disclosure while addressing a news conference in Kano recently.
Askira said the decision to shift the date of the strike was taken after the extraordinary meeting of the National Executive Council of the association held on April 26 in Sokoto.
He said after deliberations on the progress made so far, the NEC decided to shift the strike by two weeks.
According to him, the decision to shift the strike followed the prompt intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari during a meeting with NMA National leadership as contained in a statement released by his SSA on media.
Osun

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has com
miserated with the government and people of Edo over the demise of the late Oba of Benin, Omo n’Oba Erediauwa.
A condolence message signed by the Ooni’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare, said that Edo, Ile-Ife ,Oduduwa race, Nigeria and the entire African continent would greatly miss the late monarch. Ogunwusi described the deceased as a respecter and manager of African culture as well as an embodiment of values, respect, peace, discipline and honesty. He also said the highly respectable monarch was blessed with an uncommon and enviable character.

Oyo

A new political group seeking registration, All
Grassroots Alliance (AGA), says it will sponsor an executive bill advocating a five-year single term for political office holders if voted into power in 2019. Mr Yekini Salimanu, the National Publicity Secretary of the group, stated this at its public presentation in Ibadan. He said the four- year term, with opportunity for a second term, often promoted bad governance.

Sokoto

A death has occurred of a veteran diplomat and former
permanent secretary Alahji Hamzat Ahmadu. According to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant, Media to Governor Aminu Tambuwal, Imam Imam, Ahmadu, who held the traditional title of Walin Sokotod, died at a private hospital in Lagos on Sunday, aged 92. An accomplished diplomat and technocrat, the deceased served as Personal Secretary to two Nigerian military leaders, Gen. Aguiyi Ironsi and Gen. Yakubu Gowon. He had also served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to U.S., Germany, France and the former Soviet Union (USSR). Responding to the news of his death Tambuwal, described the deceased as peace-loving and committed family man who gave valuable contributions to the unity and development of Nigeria.

Taraba

Catholic Bishops in Benue and Taraba have converged
on Kashimbila in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba to pray for God’s intervention over insecurity in parts of the country. The prayer pilgrimage for reconciliation, peace and unity was held at the St. Edward De Confessor Catholic Parish, Kashimbila in Takum. In attendance were the Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Charles Hammawa; Bishop of Katsina-Ala Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Adoboh and Bishop of Gboko Diocese, Most Rev. Williams Avenya who is also the Secretary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).

Nation

THE LAPSES OF THE MEDIA IN ELECTIONS

Published

18 hours ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

The media is supposed to be a platform through which people express their thoughts, beliefs, and opinions on issues of public interest. Unfortunately, it has often failed to live up to its role as the fourth estate of the realm.During the 2023 elections, the media recorded several lapses that deserve critical examination in academic and professional spaces. Before discussing these failures in detail, it is important to briefly explain the meaning, role, and duties of the media. In simple terms, the media refers to the main channels of mass communication, including broadcasting, print publishing, and the internet.

It is a collective term for all means through which information reaches the public. The media is often called the fourth tier of government because of the popular saying, “No media, no society.” This is not an exaggeration. Scholars have shown that the media plays an integral role in society, since political, economic, religious, and academic activities all depend on information flow through the media.

The word MEDIA can be broken down to reflect its core functions: M – Meeting the People E – Educating the People D – Discussing with the People I – Involving the People A – Accessing the PeopleSpecifically during elections, the media is expected to provide accurate and timely information to the public by reporting and updating citizens on government and electoral activities. This responsibility is central to keeping the electorate informed.The media also strengthens democracy by engaging citizens on critical issues affecting the electoral process. When the media effectively disseminates relevant information, the public can see through the failures of government, hold leaders accountable, and propose solutions that serve the common good.

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram play a vital role in democratic societies because they allow mass participation. Unlike radio and television, social media is accessible to anyone with a smartphone and data bundle, making it the most inclusive platform for political discourse. Despite these roles, the media must not abandon its ethics or promote partisan agendas that mislead the public. In many schools of thought, the media is described as closely related to the judiciary.

People often see the media as a place to voice grievances and seek justice.However, it is fair to say that the media has lost ground by failing to fulfill its duties during elections. Below are ten key lapses observed in the February 2023 elections.Lack of coordination among journalists. Many press personnel who covered different polling units were poorly equipped and unprepared. Some lacked functional cameras and modern technology needed to carry out professional reporting.

Partisanship and breach of ethics. Media personnel, who are supposed to remain non-partisan, openly violated professional ethics by taking political sides and favoring certain candidates in their reporting.Commercialization of coverage. Some journalists prioritized money over news. It was disappointing to see professionals from reputable stations engaging in what I call “Oga, find me something syndrome” begging politicians for money in exchange for favorable coverage or interviews.Loss of independence and self-censorship. On election day, some journalists took instructions from politicians on what to report and what to suppress. This compromised the independence of the media and reduced public trust.

Poor post-election reporting. Few media outlets reported what actually happened at the polling units. Incidents of violence, voter intimidation, and irregularities were either underreported or ignored entirely, while praise was lavished on politicians instead of amplifying the voices of the people.Spread of misinformation and unverified claims. In the rush to be first, some media houses published unverified results and rumors from social media without fact-checking. This fueled confusion and tension among the electorate.Inadequate coverage of rural and marginalized areas. Media attention was concentrated in urban centers, leaving rural polling units underreported. The experiences and challenges of rural voters were largely absent from mainstream coverage.

Sensationalism over substance. Some outlets prioritized sensational headlines and conflict-driven stories over factual analysis of policies and candidate manifestos, leaving voters uninformed about real issues. Failure to hold INEC accountable in real time. While INEC faced logistical failures and delays, many media houses were slow to question officials or demand explanations on air, missing opportunities for live accountability.

Neglect of voter education. Beyond reporting results, the media did little to educate voters on procedures, rights, and what to do in case of irregularities. This left many citizens uninformed and vulnerable on election day.These lapses weaken public trust and undermine the credibility of the electoral process. For the media to regain its role as a watchdog of democracy, it must return to the principles of accuracy, impartiality, and public service.

The media must be informed to follow its ethics as the 2027 elections approaches. This is encourage electorates rely on the authenticity and objectivity of media practice.Failure to uphold media standards will further make the country plunge into political apathy, electoral violence and disgust for those in the media practice.

By KRUKRUBO, NYE TAMUNODIKI.

Nation

RSU, Otonti Nduka Foundation Holds Centenary Conference, Unveil Book on Values in Nigeria

Published

2 weeks ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State University and the Otonti Nduka Foundation for Values Education jointly hosted a two-day National Conference on 8 and 9 May 2026 to examine the state of values in Nigeria.

The two days conference held at Rivers State University convocation arena brought together academics, policymakers, legal experts and education leaders under the theme _“Trends and Challenges in Upholding Values in Nigeria.”_

The gathering focused on policy gaps, curriculum reform, and the role of ethics in public service and education.

The event opened on Friday with remarks from Vice Chancellor Prof. Chief Isaac Zeb-Obipi, who stressed the need to address declining moral and civic values across Nigeria’s education and public sectors. A book of abstracts for the plenary sessions was also presented to participants.

Key speakers included former Attorney General Chief Dr Kanu Agabi, SAN; NERDC Executive Secretary Prof. Shehu Salisu; Prof. Hauwa Imam, FNAE, of the University of Abuja; former Rivers SUBEB Chairman Ven Dr Fyneface Akah, ; former NIMASA DG Dr Hon. Dakuku Adol-Peterside; and RSU Director of ICT Prof. Sunny Orike.

Discussions centered on integrating values education into schools, tertiary institutions and public institutions, alongside the impact of technology on moral development among young Nigerians. Panel and plenary sessions produced practical recommendations for curriculum and policy reform.

On Saturday, the foundation marked its centenary with the unveiling of the book _Otonti Nduka in History_, launched by Chief Engr. Grant Offor, FNSE. The Nigerian Academy of Education held a ceremonial procession led by its President Prof. Olu Jegede and the Ikwerre Professors Forum.

In a communiqué, participants called for stronger collaboration between government, civil society and academia to mainstream values education nationwide. They recommended reviewing teacher training curricula and expanding digital platforms to promote ethical civic engagement, with the foundation pledging to share the outcomes with education authorities for implementation.

Dignitaries present included Ogbakor Ikwerre Worldwide as Chief Host, Prof. Emeritus Chief T. Uzodimma Nwala, the Ikenga 1 of Mbaise and first philosophy student of Prof. Otonti Nduka, alongside scholars and community leaders.

Amadi Akujobi

Nation

Shell, MAN Back Rivers’ Drive for Expanded Gas Supply to Industries

Published

2 weeks ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

The Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, in partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, has reaffirmed support for efforts to expand gas distribution infrastructure in Rivers State as part of initiatives aimed at improving access to affordable, cleaner and more reliable energy for industries across the South-South region.

The commitment was highlighted during the SNG–MAN Business Forum held in Port Harcourt, where stakeholders from the industrial and public sectors examined the role of natural gas in driving industrialisation, boosting local production and strengthening energy security.

Speaking at the forum on behalf of the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, the company’s Head of Gas Distribution, Mr. Chukwuka Amos Ejesi, described natural gas as a critical component of Nigeria’s energy mix and a key driver of sustainable industrial growth.

According to him, Nigeria’s gas development agenda has reached a stage where policy direction must be matched with practical implementation capable of addressing the energy challenges confronting manufacturers.

He noted that pipeline gas offers industries a cleaner, more dependable and cost-effective energy alternative capable of supporting uninterrupted operations, reducing emissions and improving production efficiency.

“Gas is the backbone of manufacturing, and we are encouraged by the growing recognition among stakeholders of the need for cleaner and more reliable energy solutions,” he said.

Ejesi stressed the need for sustained collaboration among energy providers, government institutions and industrial stakeholders to maximise the country’s gas resources for economic development.

He added that improved gas infrastructure would strengthen manufacturing value chains, enhance productivity and promote more competitive industrial operations across Rivers State and the wider South-South region.

Participants at the forum also emphasised the importance of expanding energy infrastructure as a pathway to unlocking industrial capacity, reducing operating costs and promoting sustainable industrial development.

Representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Director-General of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency, Dr. Chamberlain Peterside, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to partnering with private sector investors to revitalise industrial activities in the state.

He identified key projects targeted under the initiative to include the revival of the Ahoada Industrial Park, the New Port City project and the proposed Bonny Industrial Park, all aimed at stimulating economic growth and expanding industrial opportunities along the Bonny corridor.

According to the governor, the long-term vision is to position Rivers State as a leading manufacturing hub in Southern Nigeria through strategic public-private partnerships.

Governor Fubara also commended Shell Nigeria Gas and MAN for sustaining engagements geared towards improving industrial energy access, noting that gas infrastructure development remains central to the state’s economic recovery plans.

He further observed that the gas sector presents enormous opportunities for economic growth, especially as global energy systems continue to shift towards cleaner energy sources.

The governor called on stakeholders to work collectively towards developing a practical and sustainable gas framework capable of supporting the state’s industrial and energy development objectives.

Chairman of MAN, Rivers and Bayelsa Branch, Elder Vincent Okuku, described gas as indispensable to industrial operations, noting that many manufacturers continue to struggle with the high cost of alternative energy sources.

Similarly, President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Dr. Chinyere Ngozi Nwoga, said the transition to natural gas had become increasingly necessary for businesses seeking stable and cost-efficient operations.

“Pipeline natural gas provides a more cost-effective and reliable source of energy for industries,” she stated.

Also speaking, former Chairman of MAN in Rivers and Bayelsa States, Mrs. Emilia Akpan, stressed the need to align energy infrastructure development with investment in human capacity.

She maintained that rebuilding the state’s economy would require not only reliable energy supply but also the development of technical skills needed to support long-term industrial growth.

By Kevin Nengia