Nation

THE STATES

Published

16 years ago

November 2, 2009

Minna

The Niger State government has set aside N7.5 million to provide steady water supply for people living in Minna and its environs.
The commissioner for water resources, Dr Isah Votsa said this to newsmen in Minna shortly after inspection of facilities. Dr Vatsa said that N225 million was spent on the dredging of Tagwa Dam while an additional N190 million is being spent on dredging the Changaya Channel of the dam.
He said that an additional N300 million was spent to reinvigorate the state water board, adding that work has passed 50 per cent completion stage, in cleaning reservoirs at the place as four of the eight reservoirs are already cleaned and are in full operational state.
Vatsa said that before the end of this year more than 60 per cent of people living in Minna and its environs will have frequent water supply, saying that it will be rationed to pave way for all to get water at least 12 hours a day.

Zamfara

The Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has been commended for the frequent repairs on federal roads across the country.
The special adviser to the Zamfara State Governor on Local Government Projects, Alhaji Musa Garba said the repairs had not only improved qualities of transportation on the affected roads, but will go a long way to save lives.
He said the repairs, especially in the pot holes filled Gusau-Zaria road will improve socio-economic activities among people of Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna states, which the road passes through.
According to him, motorists and other road users will now feel more comfortable riding the roads considering the fact that dangerous portions of the road, hitherto left unattend to, have been fixed.

Ibadan

Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Professor Taoheed Adedaja has expressed decline in the gradual decline in the standard of education in the state.
In his address at the inauguration of Volunteer Supervisors Scheme in the state, Adedoja commented that only 30 per cent of the SSS3 students in public schools passed NECO examinations last year, while above 17 per cent passed the WAEC examination in the same year.
He said that the conduct of the students did not commensurate with the huge expenses of the government on education which included the payment of N250 million for WAEC examinations for the public schools’ students.
He stated that the idea of volunteer supervisors scheme came up in order to boost quality of education in the state and bring back the days of schools inspection which he noted had faded away.
The commissioner told the supervisors who are mainly retired school principals that the need for enduring quality of assurance stemmed from the contemporary reforms in education occasioned by the provisions of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the goals for Education For All (EFA).

Kaduna

The Chartered Instituted of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria has lost its bid to remain the sole regulatory body for the practice of purchasing and supply management in the country.
A federal high court sitting in Kaduna, Friday, dismissed a suit brought by the institute and contended that Act No 21 of 2007 which created the institute did not state that it was the only body that has the power to regulate the practice of purchasing and supply management in the country.
Delivering judgement in the matter, Justice Mohammed Lawal Shuaibu, who described the case as “mere waste of time”, said that the law does not also stipulate that one must be a member of the institute before one can be appointed to head the Bureau of Public Procurement.
“The application by the institute was a mere waste of time and an academic exercise since its existence cannot deny other bodies from existing or coming into existence,” Shuaibu said, adding that “it will be out of place to accept the application.”
The institute had gone to court seeking a declaration that no person is qualified to practice without being registered or enrolled with it in accordance with the Act.
It equally asked the court to make a declaration that it was the only body with the jurisdiction and empowered to train, educate and examine all persons in Nigeria desiring to become professional procurers and another declaration that only qualified members registered with the institute are qualified to be appointed to head the Bureau of Public Procurement.

Akure

Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) has appointed some state commanders. They include Capt S. G. Jiyah (rtd), Niger State, Capt. B. Y. Golen (rtd), Plateau State and Mr Sayikanmi Titus Daisi, Ondo State. Also appointed are O. A. Yakubu, deputy commander, operations and Hassan Isa Adejo, deputy commander, admin/finance. A statement by Alhaji Abubakar Sule, public relations officer, VGN, said the appointments take immediate effect, adding “VGN group has always been part of the social, cultural and political security systems all over the world. It was formed to help the Nigerian police and other security operatives to create a better society.”

Katsina

Amalumfashi Sharia Court in Katsina has sentenced two women Aisha Abdullahi and Rashidi Musa to two months imprisonment for stealing an international passport.
The convicts were however given an option of N3000 fine each. Abdullahi, 52 and Musa 28 of Bakin-Kasuwa and Hayin Majidadi in Malam Fashi town respectively, were convicted for stealing an e-passport belonging to one Lami Abubakar in her house in the community.
The police prosecutor Capt. Garba Magaji had earlier told the court that the Abubakar kept her handbag containing to the passport.
Magaji said that Abubakar went out among the two women in the room adding that when she returned, she discovered that her passport has been stolen.
The prosecutor said that she alerted the police who arrested the women and charged them to court for criminal conspiracy and theft.
He said the alleged offences contravened sections 120 and 135 of Shariah laws of Katsina State.

Abuja

Following the kidnapping of the 78 year old father of the gubernatorial candidate of the People Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Fourteen governorship aspirants on the platform of the party have denied that the abduction was politically motivated.
Addressing newsmen in Abuja on behalf of the fourteen aspirants, Chief Chuma Nwafor said that rather than point accusing fingers at their leader, Chief Chris Uba, Soludo should be called by the police for questioning on the whereabouts of his father.
According to him, there was no proof before Uba was accused. Other aspirants at the news briefing are Emeka Eze, Amachukwu Ezeike, Nkoli Imoh, Volt Ozigbo, Ebe Lovina and Kete Egwa.
The rest are Victoria Nwankwo, Chinyere Agagbo, Ossy Ezenwa, Mike Nkwocha, Oyigba Okoli, Bertrand Dim and Basil Iwuoba.
According to Nwafor, the aspirants find it difficult to accept the authenticity of the story, as some people have tried to politicise the incident by accusing Chief Chris Uba as being involved in the act.

Makurdi

Benue State government has released N2 billion to the 23 local government councils in the state. The money accrues to the councils, from the excess crude accounts.
Special adviser to the state governor on local government and chieftaincy affairs, Mr Sam Ode, made the disclosure in a meeting with local government council chairmen in Makudrdi.
Ode noted that government’s decision to inject the money into the councils was premised on its decision to ensure meaningful development at the tier of government.
He implored the local government council chairmen to key into the state government’s policy of fiscal discipline, accountability and zero tolerance for corruption which, according to him, has remained the guiding principle of the Government Gabriel Suswam-led administration.

Lagos

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris has said that, more than four million people die every year from pneumonia.
Dr Idris who said that at a press briefing in Lagos also said that half of the deaths are children.
The commissioner said that to effectively combat the acclaimed childhood killer disease, the policies guiding the management of pneumonia must be revitalised.
According to him, the death rate is high in Lagos, “statistics shows that pneumonia kills more than four million people every year and half of these deaths are children under five years, that is, every 15 seconds, a child is lost to pneumonia, 5,500 everyday and an unbelievable two million every year.
“An estimated 98 per cent of children die in developed countries while more than 2000 children die in developing countries.
He also said that the disease causes needless sufferings through illness and hospitalisation, while contributing significantly to the vicious cycle of poverty.

Nation

Group Advocates Indigenous Language Sustainability, Calls for Policy Action

Published

3 hours ago

January 23, 2026

The Tide

A pan-Nigeria organisation committed to the promotion and preservation of indigenous languages, Indigenous Language and Culture Promoters (ILCP), has called for the deliberate development and compulsory teaching of indigenous languages in both primary and secondary schools across the country.

The group made the call during its maiden Congress held in Bori, Rivers State, which was convened to examine challenges hindering the official adoption and effective teaching of Ogoni languages in schools.

Speaking at the Congress, the Executive Director of the organisation, HRC Mene Magnus Edooh, Amb.P, emphasised the critical role of indigenous languages in preserving a people’s culture, values and history. He warned against the gradual extinction of native languages, noting that language loss equates to identity loss.

“Years ago, Latin was a language of global relevance, but today it is largely extinct. We do not want Ogoni languages to suffer a similar fate. As a people, we cannot afford to lose our identity through the death of our languages,” Edooh said.

He explained that the Indigenous Language and Culture Promoters was established to collaborate with language stakeholders to ensure that children and younger generations remain connected to their mother tongues. The organisation also appealed to governments at all levels, as well as relevant institutions and individuals, to take strategic actions aimed at promoting and sustaining Nigeria’s indigenous languages.

Also speaking, the newly appointed Director of Media and Information, Prince David N. Gbarato, questioned the rationale behind government reluctance to accord indigenous languages their rightful place in national development policies.

According to him, “People with well-developed languages are people with well-developed indigenous systems and affairs,” stressing that language development is fundamental to cultural and societal advancement.

The Congress further served as a platform for the ratification of key officers of the organisation and featured the participation of representatives from various indigenous language groups and other language stakeholders, all of whom echoed the call for renewed commitment towards safeguarding Nigeria’s linguistic heritage.

Nation

Diri Approves N200m Monthly Grant for Bayelsa Farmers, Targets Increased Local Rice Production

Published

4 days ago

January 19, 2026

The Tide

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has approved a monthly support scheme of ?200 million for farmers in the state as part of efforts to boost food security and expand agricultural production.

The governor announced the approval on Tuesday at the flag-off ceremony of the 2026 dry season farming programme held at the state-owned rice farm in Otuasega community, Ogbia Local Government Area.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the volume of rice harvested during the last farming season, Governor Diri directed the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources to ensure a significant increase in the production of homegrown rice in Bayelsa State by the end of 2026.

He stressed that despite the government’s provision of necessary support to the ministry and farmers, it was unacceptable that the state still had to procure rice from outside during the last Yuletide period.

The governor charged the Ministry of Agriculture to take food security seriously, noting that Bayelsa has a comparative advantage in several crop areas, with fertile soil that does not require fertiliser to produce organic crops.

While commending the Commissioner for Agriculture and other stakeholders for organising the event, Governor Diri urged the ministry to ensure that such initiatives go beyond yearly ceremonies and translate into tangible benefits for the people.

According to him, agriculture remains a key pillar of the state’s economic diversification drive, which his administration has prioritised through heavy investments. He also called on civil servants and residents to embrace agriculture as a way of life.

“Let it not be that we come here for a yearly ritual. This is something that affects us as a people and so we must all take it seriously. Food security will continue to be a top priority of my administration,” he said.

He added that agriculture strengthens the economy and highlighted the importance of transportation infrastructure in moving farm produce from rural communities to the state capital.

“We are investing in agriculture and connecting communities. The roads and bridges support agriculture. We have developed partnerships and collaborations and will continue to partner with other agencies to ensure Bayelsa attains the expected food security,” the governor stated.

Governor Diri further directed that by the end of 2026, the state should record a minimum production of 300,000 kilogrammes of rice, stressing that government would patronise local farmers rather than sourcing rice from outside the state.

On security concerns, he reiterated that the state’s anti-grazing law remains in force, warning herdsmen against destroying farmlands and urging farmers to report such incidents to security agencies instead of resorting to social media.

He also cautioned traditional rulers against allocating land in forest areas to herdsmen, warning that anyone found culpable would be sanctioned.

“For our farmers, we will always support you. Honourable Commissioner, identify the genuine farmers in the state. What we did for MSMEs will also be done for farmers. Henceforth, ?200 million will be set aside monthly to support farmers in Bayelsa State,” he added.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Beke Sese, described the event as a reaffirmation of the state government’s unwavering commitment to food security.

He commended Governor Diri for his substantial investment in the agricultural sector, noting that it has been the driving force behind the progress recorded so far.

Representatives of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Bayelsa State chapter, Nigerian Women in Agriculture Business, the Nigeria Agricultural Insurance Corporation and the Central Bank of Nigeria, among others, also lauded the governor’s sustained support for farmers, which they said has significantly improved the agricultural sector in the state.

City Crime

Fanfare, Pageantry As Ohiauga Community Honours 31 Eminent Personalities with Maiden Leadership Awards

Published

4 days ago

January 19, 2026

The Tide

Ohiauga Community in Igburu Clan, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, on Saturday, December 27, 2025, witnessed an unprecedented spectacle of celebrations, fanfare and cultural splendour as it honoured 31 distinguished personalities for their outstanding leadership qualities, selfless service and immense contributions to the growth and development of the community.

The historic event, which took place at the Ohiauga Community Town Hall, marked the maiden edition of the Ohiauga Leadership Awards and saw 27 illustrious sons and daughters of the community, alongside four non-indigenes, decorated with various honours in recognition of their unwavering commitment to the socio-economic, political and infrastructural advancement of the area.

From the early hours of the day, the once serene and seemingly sleepy community was transformed into a beehive of activities. The atmosphere was electrified with excitement as the sound of music echoed from different corners of the community. Everywhere was colourful, lively and festive, as men, women, youths and children, young and old, trooped out in large numbers, beautifully adorned in elegant traditional and modern attires.

The favourable weather further added glamour and grace to the occasion, enhancing the beauty and splendour of the event, as the people, stakeholders and visitors savoured every moment of the celebration.

Adding royal splendour to the colourful ceremony was the presence of the Eze of Igburu Clan, Eze Igburu IV of Igburu Land, His Majesty Eze Kenneth Nwabochi, who arrived at the venue in full royal regalia, accompanied by his retinue of chiefs, elders and other palace officials. His presence was a clear testament to the significance of the occasion and underscored the unity and collective resolve of the people to celebrate excellence and service.

One after the other, the award recipients stepped forward amid thunderous applause, cheers and admiration from the audience. These were men and women whose years of dedication, sacrifice and contributions have helped place Ohiauga Community on the map in terms of political relevance, socio-economic growth and self-help-driven development.

Indeed, Ohiauga Community today boasts of notable achievements credited largely to community-based initiatives, including a relatively good road network, stable and uninterrupted electricity supply powered through solar infrastructure, and other basic amenities that have improved the quality of life of its people. The honoured individuals, it was observed, have played significant roles in achieving these milestones, leaving their unmistakable footprints on the community’s development journey.

By honouring them, the community made it clear that the awards were not meant to signal retirement from service, but rather to encourage the recipients to intensify their efforts and continue to give back to their fatherland. Community leaders noted that although progress has been recorded, Ohiauga still faces serious developmental challenges that require sustained commitment and collective action.

Prominent among these challenges is the absence of a functional healthcare facility. The only cottage hospital project in the community, allegedly initiated by Total Energies Limited several years ago, was said to have been abandoned, leaving residents without adequate medical care. The community strongly appealed to the Rivers State Government to intervene and revive the project in the interest of the people.

The education sector was also not spared. The Ohiauga Community Primary School, according to the community, is allegedly in good shape, with a conducive learning environment, but lacks enough classroom teachers, as there is only one government-employed classroom teacher. To fill the void, the community reportedly employed five additional teachers from its meagre resources and currently bears the responsibility of paying their salaries.

These realities, stakeholders explained, provided further justification for the decision to celebrate and honour individuals who have consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and development of the community.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the Ohiauga Maiden Leadership Awards, Pastor (Dr) David Chizor Nwaoburu, described the event as a strategic initiative aimed at fostering peace, unity and development, while recognising and rewarding excellence and service.

According to him, the award ceremony was designed to honour eminent personalities who have distinguished themselves in public and private life, and who have continued to make meaningful contributions to the growth of Ohiauga Community.

Dr Nwaoburu, who was himself among the award recipients, said the recognition was intended to motivate the honourees to do more for the community and not to rest on their achievements. He urged them to continue to serve the interests of the people wherever they find themselves and to remain ambassadors of peace and development.

He further reiterated the need for government intervention in the abandoned cottage hospital project and the posting of teachers to the primary school by the state government, stressing that community development in Ohiauga has largely been driven by self-help efforts.

Among those honoured at the event were Pastor (Dr) David Chizor Nwaoburu; former Bursar of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr Davis Ojima; the Registrar of the institution, Dr Chinonye A. Ajie; Dr Obi Chukwuma Ebenezer Jular; Elder Kemmer Mark Godwin; Dr Nwokoji Chukwuemeka; Mr Nduka Louis Odiegba; Dr (Chief) (Mrs) Ojima; Comrade Chimezie Igwela; Engr Gideon Eke; Chief (Prof) H. A. Ajie; Hon. Sule Igwela; and Dr Obi Nwaoburu.

Others included Prof. (Mrs) Jennifer Igwela; Dr Charity Ajie; Eric David Orukwo; the Paramount Ruler of Ohiauga Community, HRH Dr Amb. Bright Abali; Mr Chukwudi Lloyd Reuben; Comrade Wisdom Adieme; and the member representing ONELGA Constituency I in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Nwabochi.

Also recognised were Comrade Kelvin London Oji; Pastor Smart Brass Maduagu; Chief (Hon.) K. O. Igwela; Harmony Igwela; Comrade Onyemaobi Igwela; and Late Elder Nwaba Maduagu, who received a posthumous award in recognition of his lifetime contributions to the community.

The four non-indigenes honoured for their dedicated services and goodwill towards the community were Hon. Marculey Ogolo; Hon. ThankGod Chibor; Comrade Kingsley Ogu; and Pastor G. Oreke, who was specially recognised as the only dedicated government classroom teacher at Ohiauga Community Primary School.

Reacting to the honour, the Registrar of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr Chinonye A. Ajie, described the award as a step in the right direction and a thoughtful gesture that encourages service and excellence. He called for harmonious relationships among all segments of the community and pledged his continued support towards education, job creation and collective development.

Former Bursar of the university, Dr Davis Ojima, also expressed gratitude to the community for recognising his contributions, assuring that he would remain committed to promoting peace, unity and sustainable development initiatives in Ohiauga.

Business mogul, Mr Nduka Louis Odiegba, said being honoured by one’s own community carries special significance, describing the recognition as the most cherished among the many awards he has received. He pledged to intensify his contributions to the welfare and development of the people, noting that “charity must begin at home.”

In his royal remarks, the Eze of Igburu Clan, His Majesty Eze Kenneth Nwabochi, emphasised the importance of peace, unity and the preservation of cultural values, describing the maiden Ohiauga Leadership Awards as a timely initiative aimed at strengthening communal bonds and fostering collective progress.

Giving the vote of thanks on behalf of the awardees, Mr Chukwudi Lloyd Reuben, thanked the community for finding them worthy of recognition, and commended the leadership and merit award committee for the excellent packaging of the programme. He urged the awardees to continue with their good work to the community, as the merit awards were a clarion call for more community development involvement and a wake up call for others to emulate the leadership qualities exhibited by the awardees.

Overall, the maiden Ohiauga Leadership Awards ceremony lived up to its billing, serving not only as a platform to celebrate excellence and service but also as a rallying point for renewed commitment to the development of the community, amid resounding jubilation, merriment and cultural pride.

By: Donatus Ebi