News
Kofi Annan: Buhari, Jonathan, Saraki, Dogara, Govs Pay Tribute
A former Secretary General of the United Nations (UN), Kofi Annan, passed on yesterday. In a tribute, the incumbent UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, said Annan, the second African to occupy the top seat of the global body was the United Nations.
Following the demise, tributes have poured in from across the world including Nigeria where President Muhammadu Buhari, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Bukola Saraki, Speaker Yakubu Dogara and some state governors extolled the virtues of the former UN scribe, Kofi Annan. Buhari commiserated with the government and people of Ghana over the passage.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Chief Femi Adesina, stated that his principal called President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana from London to commiserate with him.
According to the statement, the President told his Ghanaian colleague that all Nigerians and ECOWAS member-countries shared in the deep loss, considering the strategic influence of the former scribe in global affairs and his vision for the repositioning of the West Coast and Africa.
The statement said, “As the first elected staff of the United Nations to lead the world organisation and first African to win the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize jointly with the United Nations, the President noted that Annan’s humility, nobility and love for humanity set him apart for global greatness, achieving recognition and commendation for the reform of the United Nations’ bureaucracy and multiple interventions to bring peace to the world”.
Death, a sad loss to humanity – Jonathan Former President Jonathan described the deceased as an icon of peace and a great son of Africa. In a tribute, Jonathan noted that his extensive reforms reinvigorated the UN systems and positively impacted international relations.
A statement by the former President’s spokesman, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, further described the passing on of the former U.N. scribe as a sad loss to humanity.
End of golden era in politics – Saraki in his own tribute,described the demise of Kofi Annan as the end of a golden era in global politics and international relations. Saraki, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Yusuph Olaniyonu, described the late Annan as the quintessential African diplomat on the global plane and a citizen of the world, who deployed his vast capacities to tackle intractable global challenges ranging from hunger, conflict, epidemic and restoration of peace in war-torn countries.
He noted that many developing nations benefitted immensely from the humanitarian efforts of the late Annan during lifetime as he was able to raise the concerns and challenges confronting hitherto forgotten peoples and nations in the Assembly of world powers. “Annan was the quintessential African Diplomat who bestrode the world stage with dignity, finesse, admirable restraint and wisdom.
He was a diplomat’s diplomat. He dedicated his immense expertise, experience and energies to resolving some of the world’s most pressing problems and conflicts, including most recently, the Rohingya refugee crisis. He was a citizen of the world”, the Senate President said.
Huge loss to Africa, humanity – Dogara Speaker Yakubu Dogara described the death of Annan as a huge loss to Africa and humanity. Reacting to the news of demise of the former UN chief scribe via his official Twitter handle @YakubDogara, Dogara said Annan had etched his name on the sands of time as a true son of Africa, quintessential leader and accomplished diplomat who dedicated his life time to the progress of humanity.
He added that the late Ghanaian diplomat was a true global ambassador who used his life to promote peace across the world.
Annan was a global icon – Tinubu Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, also mourning Annan, said he distinguished himself as an international statesman, global icon, finest diplomat and tireless champion of human rights for all, saying his diplomatic achievements, both before or after becoming the UN Secretary-General, are legion.
“Specifically, he will be remembered for his important contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS epidemic, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, and his commitment to defending vulnerable populations the world over, demonstrated by his key role in the development of the UN’s epoch-making Responsibility to Protect doctrine.”,
Tinubu said. “His time at the UN was also remarkable for his role in ensuring stability of democratic governments in Africa and intervention in conflict resolution around the world aimed at achieving world peace.
“Kofi Annan spearheaded several initiatives on Africa, including his chairmanship of the Africa Progress Panel and the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).
He provided leadership in developing the Millennium Development Goals, which made poverty eradication an achievable global imperative.
He lived true to his reputation and recognition as Noble Peace Prize Laureate because he was an advocate of world peace and development throughout” Amosun mourns Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State described the Nobel Laureate as a global statesman, consummate technocrat and accomplished diplomat.
In a statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Otunba Adedayo Adeneye, Amosun said Annan will be remembered for championing respect for human rights, peace, unity and justice, globally. “Late Mr. Kofi Annan, relentlessly worked towards peaceful coexistence and sustainable development round the world, as a two-term UN secretary general.
“The contributions of this distinguished diplomat of international repute, in promoting peace and mitigating violence, particularly in Middle East and Africa, is commendable and worthy of emulation”, the governor added.
Annan was Africa’s gift to the world – Dakwambo Governor Ibrahim Dakwambo of Gombe State said Annan was Africa’s gift to the world. “As Secretary General of the United Nations, the second African but the first black man to hold that position, Annan was the perfect advertisement copy for the African heritage of diligence, resilience, brilliance, humaneness and all the virtues that make up impeccable character. On his watch, the world witnessed but survived terrible wars, violent disagreements and catastrophic disasters”, Dakwambo said.
We had numerous meetings – Peter Obi In his own reaction, former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, described Annan as a true representative of Africa.
He recalled his numerous meetings with him in Nigeria and outside Nigeria, and how Annan’s preoccupation was how to develop Africa along the right paths.
He was a diplomat par excellence – Harriman family The Ambassador Leslie and Chief Hope Harriman family also mourned Annan for his tenacity of purpose on the world stage which they said brought pride to Africa. Reminiscing the bond between the Harriman family and the Annan family of Ghana, Ms. Temi Harriman, in a statement on behalf of the two families, recalled Annan as a civilised, urbane and a patriotic African. She particularly remembered fond memories the Harrimans had with the Annan family and the fellowship the three patriarchs had among themselves that distilled down to their families.
“A diplomat par excellence, a great son of Ghana, who made Africa proud on the world stage.
He had an aristocratic and elegant mien and became the first United Nations secretary-general hired from within the United Nations system,” she said. “He was a most civilised, urbane man. We pray for his eternal repose and for his family at this time.”
The Rivers State Government has commended the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) for its outstanding contributions to the development of Rivers State, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, education, healthcare, and moral development.
Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, stated that the Church has remained a dependable partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, moral discipline, and social harmony across society.
The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, made the remarks during the thanksgiving service marking the 30th Anniversary and First Session of the 11th Synod of the Diocese of Niger Delta North, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church on Sunday.
Governor Fubara described the Synod’s theme, “Kingdom Advancement: The Priority of Every Believer,” as timely and relevant, considering the prevailing realities in society.
According to him, the Church continues to play a vital role in shaping societal values and inspiring hope among citizens.
“The Church remains a vital partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, and moral discipline. Its role in shaping values and inspiring hope cannot be overemphasized,” he stated.
The Governor further acknowledged the Anglican Communion’s contributions in education, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, humanitarian services, and spiritual guidance across communities in Rivers State.
“The Rivers State Government appreciates the invaluable contributions of the Anglican Communion in education, healthcare, youth development, humanitarian support, and spiritual guidance. Your impact across communities in Rivers State continues to strengthen families and promote peaceful coexistence among our people,” he added.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a peaceful, united, and prosperous Rivers State where all citizens can thrive irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or social background.
He also urged the Synod to continue praying for sustainable development and progress in Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
Earlier in his sermon, the Guest Minister, Joseph Olushola, spoke on the topic, “Kingdom Investment and Internal Rewards,” urging Christians to remain faithful stewards of God’s blessings and committed to advancing God’s kingdom through service and generosity.
The cleric emphasized that believers are custodians of the virtues and resources entrusted to them by God, stressing that divine rewards are based on faithfulness and impact rather than material possessions.
The Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, in partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), 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.
By; Kevin Nengia
Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, has charged newlywed couples to build their marriages on the virtues of love and submission as taught in the Word of God.
Prof. Odu gave the charge at the wedding ceremony of Amblessed Favour Sunny-Cookey and Samson Jesuganji at Lifegate Power Ministries, Dominion Cathedral, in Port Harcourt on Saturday, 16th May 2026.
The Deputy Governor congratulated the couple on beginning a new phase of life together and prayed for God’s blessings upon their union, noting that the couple had been raised by godly parents and encouraged them to uphold the Christian values instilled in them.
Referring to the sermon delivered during the ceremony, Prof. Odu emphasized that the principles of love and submission remain fundamental to a successful marriage.
According to her, genuine love reflects the nature of God, stressing that love should remain the foundation of the couple’s relationship as they journey through life together.
Prof. Odu further prayed for enduring peace, happiness, and progress in the home, expressing confidence that the marriage would continue to flourish under God’s guidance.
The Deputy Governor also commended the families of the couple for their support and upbringing, while urging the newlyweds to always remember the significance of the day and the commitment they had made before God and witnesses.
In his sermon at the wedding, the Founder and Presiding Pastor of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, stated that marriage did not originate from Western culture, traditions, or human ideas, but from God, whom he described as the “manufacturer” of marriage.
According to the cleric, couples seeking lasting and peaceful homes must rely on biblical principles rather than societal trends or assumptions.
He explained that many marital crises and rising divorce rates stem from ignorance and failure to apply scriptural teachings in family life.
Drawing from the biblical parable of building a house on a rock, Pastor Ibiyeomie said the Word of God remains the only solid foundation capable of sustaining marriages through challenges and difficult times.
He noted that marriage naturally comes with unexpected realities and pressures, stressing that religious ceremonies or cultural practices alone are not enough to sustain a home without proper understanding of God’s instructions.
The pastor further warned that ignorance of scripture remains one of the greatest weapons against believers, urging Christians to study and practice the Word of God rather than merely attending church services.
It would be recalled that the bride is the daughter of Pastor Sunny Cookey the Founder and Presiding Pastor of Lifegate Ministries. The Ceremony had lots of Ministers in attendance which includes Apostle Zilly Aggrey, Pastor George Izunwa, and Bishop Winston Iwo