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Monarch Hails OBALGA Boss’ Choice

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4 years ago

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The Eze Gbakagbaka, Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, has applauded the choice of Barrister George Ariolu as the Executive Chairman of the local government, describing him as a round peg in a round hole, as he has all the requisite qualities, pedigree, carriage and charisma to give the council area a tremendous facelift in the next three years. Consequent upon this, the first class traditional ruler gleefully sets some development agenda and milestones for the council chairman, which would invariably make him stand out among his contemporaries in the present political dispensation.
According to him, with the tutelage and mentorship he has got from no less a personality than the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Chief Nyesom Wike, who has a knack for assessing the development needs of the people, and delivering on his promise and mandate, Barrister Ariolu is capable of meeting the yearnings and aspirations of OBALGA people.
Eze Eke, who gave this indication in an interview in Port Harcourt said having served under Governor Wike as Chief of Protocols at the council and also Special Adviser, the council chairman must have gotten a great deal from the Governor’s table to be able to turn around the fortunes of the local government, describing him as a very decent man, who is quite knowledgeable and highly educated, being an intelligent and vibrant lawyer.
“I could not have said that for his predecessor. Barrister G. T. Ariolu is somebody that has been groomed and trained, as it were, by the Governor of Rivers State. In other words, he has worked closely with the Governor and must have learnt one or two lessons from him because he has seen what he is doing and all the projects and all the good things that impact on the people from the Governor’s table.George has been around and seen those things. So,it behooves on him to regurgitate what he has gotten from the Governor’s table in Obio/Akpor and that I am very sure he will do”, he said.
The monarch said Ariolu being a grassroots politician, who has so much passion and love for the local government, as well as being a team player, is expected to carry along all the people of the local government both indigenes and non-indigenes, men, women and youths.
“He is a man I know can reach out to all and sundry. He has objectivity and will be able to tackle the myriads of issues that beset the local government,” he intoned.
In order to make a difference, Eze Eke advised the council chairman to have his hands off chieftaincy issues and be the chairman of everybody.
“George is not a one man bulldozer, as it were. His style is to carry all the people together. He is friendly. He understands the people and he understands governance. And he knew what his motives, intentions and his vision were before coming to power. We too we know who George is and that was why we were able to deliver him and voted for him in order to bring to bear those beautiful things in his heart that he wants to do for the people of Obio/Akpor. We should, therefore, continue to support him”, he pleaded.
In terms of projects execution, he said the Governor apparently ushered Ariolu’s coming to the helm of affairs with the recent commissioning and flag-off of several projects as if to welcome him into office, and urged the council chairman to tackle the flooding in front of the council secretariat in Rumuodomaya as well as take interest in the rehabilitation of internal roads in some communities in the local government, which still have bad roads.
Like Governor Wike, the traditional ruler enjoined the council chairman to complete all uncompleted projects started by his predecessors like the Swamp Road project within the Oroigwe axis of the local government as well as direct his attention to the abandoned Fish Farm project in Rumuekini Community and the jetty at Rumuolumeni started by his immediate predecessor, among others.
He said he was sure that Barrister Ariolu had his plans and vision for the local government before he emerged as the executive chairman, adding that “we are only asking him to give attention to these ones and then, feel free to execute the beautiful things in his heart for the people of the local government”.
In the area of security, he urged Ariolu to emulate his master, the Governor whom he described as “the champion of our security” by relating well with security operatives in the local government and create the enabling environment for them to effectively discharge their functions.
The monarch, who superintends over 33 communities within the Evo Kingdom in the local government urged his people, whom he described as peace-loving and hospitable to always support the council chairman to succeed, obey all government regulations and continue to love one another while at the same time remain peaceful.

By: Donatus Ebi

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IAUE Governing Council Chair Assures On Mandate Delivery

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4 days ago

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October 17, 2025

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Chairman of the 13th Governor Council, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Hon. Chinyere Igwe, has promised that the Council will ensure the University remains “a beacon of hope, fountain of knowledge, integrity and inclusiveness.”
Hon. Igwe, who made the promise during the maiden meeting of the Council on Friday at the Council Chambers, stated that members are called to harness the potentials of the academic community.
A statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Dr. Ngozi Okiridu, said Hon. Igwe expressed gratitude to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, and the Executive Governor of the State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for the constitution of the Governing Council.
He also appreciated members of the Council present at the meeting, noting that it underscores their “unwavering commitment to the advancement of higher education, research and societal development.”
The Pro-chancellor affirmed that he was honoured to serve alongside them as their expertise, dedication and vision will steer the University towards greater heights.
He further stated that the gathering symbolises their “shared responsibility, collective aspirations, and devotion to fostering an environment of academic excellence, innovation and holistic development.”
While highlighting the importance of their roles as custodians of the University’s mission, vision and values, Chief Igwe reiterated that their decisions, policies and strategic visions must align with the goal of nurturing future leaders, promoting groundbreaking research and addressing societal challenges.
Hon. Igwe acknowledged the visionary leadership of previous administrations whose relentless efforts laid a strong foundation for them to build upon, adding that it is their collective duty to sustain and enhance the legacy and to ensure that they remain responsive to the evolving needs of society and the global landscape.
According to him, they would ensure that IAUE students graduate not only with knowledge, but with integrity, critical thinking and the skills necessary to excel in a rapidly changing digital world.
“Achieving and maintaining the highest standards of scholarship, research and teaching must remain the primary focus of Council, as this commitment to excellence will distinguish the University as a leading institution that produces impactful research, highly competent graduates and contribute positively to national and global development”, he stated.
He stressed that they must work to change the narrative of the University out there, and highlighted the importance of discipline as the foundation upon which the institution must be built.
“Without discipline”, he emphasised, “even the most talented individual or promising institution risk losing their direction and purpose.”
“It is through disciplined conduct that a conducive learning, teaching and working environment can be maintained, especially one that nurtures creativity, fosters collaboration and promotes excellence.”
The 13th Pro-chancellor and Governing Council Chairman of IAUE called for open dialogue, constructive deliberations, criticism and a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation.
He also encouraged all to work diligently and collectively, guided by the principles of transparency and discipline to chart a strategic course that will secure a prosperous future for the university.
In his speech, the Acting Vice Chancellor of IAUE, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, gave a brief history of the University, highlighting its programmes and achievements recorded under his watch.
He informed the Council of the needs of the University and appealed to them to facilitate the process already started to achieve the building of classroom blocks, office complex, sports complex, Senate building, Council Chambers, staff quarters, VC’s lodge, power infrastructure, some overhead cost to run the University, etc.
Sogbeba Dokubo
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World Food Day: Farmers Urge Collaboration For Improved Productivity 

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4 days ago

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October 17, 2025

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The Association of Commercial Farmers and Agro-Allied Producers of Nigeria (ACFAAPON) has called on key stakeholders to collaborate with farmers in Nigeria to create systems that reward productivity.
This was part of a communique issued at the end of a webinar held midweek as part of events marking the 2025 World Food Day, which is commemorated annually on October 15.
Noting that ACFAAPON is dedicated to repositioning agriculture for future success, the farmers said in this wise, emphasis should be on promoting modern technology, agribusiness education, value addition, export readiness, and climate-smart practices.
“We urge all stakeholders – government, private sector, financial institutions, and international partners – to collaborate strategically with farmers.
“Together, we can create systems that reward productivity, protect innovation, and recognize the irreplaceable value of those who feed humanity”, the communique stated.
ACFAAPON also called for the empowerment of women and youth, saying “It is essential to empower women and youth in agriculture to ensure inclusive growth.
“Providing access to resources, training, and technology will enhance productivity and innovation.”
They also emphasised on the need to harness science and technology in order to enhance productivity on agriculture.
“Leveraging advancements in science and technology, such as drones and AI, can provide farmers with real-time data on weather, market prices, and advisory services.
“This will enable informed decision-making and improve agricultural practices”, they stated.
Emphasising the crucial role of farmers in a nation’s development, the farmers identified challenges facing them in Nigeria to include: climate change impacts and extreme weather conditions; rising input costs and inadequate access to finance; and weak value chains and infrastructure gaps.
In order to commit to transforming Nigerian agriculture, therefore, they emphasised the need to address these issues and support farmers effectively.
“As we commemorate World Food Day 2025, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting Nigerian farmers. They are the lifeblood of our nation, and together, we can cultivate a future where no Nigerian goes hungry.
“Together, let us sow resilience, reap progress, and ensure that agriculture becomes a driver of national prosperity”, the communique concluded.
With a focus on highlighting the pivotal role of Nigerian farmers in national survival and growth, this year’s World Food Day is themed, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”
Sogbeba Dokubo
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PR Professionals Must Rebuild Public Trust – Eze Gbakagbaka

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1 week ago

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October 13, 2025

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The Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Nyerisi Eli Woji (Eze Woji XII), His Majesty, King Prof. Leslie Nyebuchi Eke, Eze Gbakagbaka, has called on communication professionals to rise above routine narratives and become vanguards in rebuilding public trust in the face of Nigeria’s challenging economic realities.
The revered monarch made the charge while delivering the Chairman’s Opening Remarks at the 2025 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Rivers State Chapter, held in Port Harcourt, with the theme: “Refocusing Stakeholders’ Engagement and Public Trust in a Challenging Economy.”
The event, which drew leading figures in public communication, governance, and industry, witnessed presentations, keynote addresses and robust deliberations aimed at repositioning the PR profession to respond to national realities with innovation and integrity.
In his remarks, HM Eke commended the Rivers State Chapter of NIPR, led by Rev. Francis Asuk, for what he called its unwavering commitment to professionalism, knowledge-sharing, and continuous dialogue on issues affecting the nation’s social and institutional fabric.
He noted that the theme of the conference could not have been more appropriate, considering the current national climate where public confidence in institutions is at an all-time low, and economic uncertainties have strained relationships between stakeholders and the state.
“We are living in a season when trust has become a scarce commodity. Citizens are asking tough questions, and institutions are struggling to maintain credibility. In such a time, the role of the Public Relations professional becomes even more crucial”, he said.
The Eze Gbakagbaka, who is the Chairman, Supreme Forum of Ikwerre Government Recognized Traditional Rulers, noted that Public Relations practitioners must understand their strategic role as mediators between the people and the truth, adding that the tools of their trade: honest communication, transparency, and empathy, must be wielded with renewed purpose and patriotism.
“You are the bridge between the people and the truth; between perception and reality. Your work determines whether society believes, doubts, or hopes again. Let this conference remind us that trust is not demanded, it is earned”, he urged.
He emphasized that the restoration of trust in both public and private sectors requires consistent, deliberate, and sincere stakeholder engagement.
According to him, when communication is driven by integrity, not propaganda, society will gradually find its voice and confidence once again.
“With transparent communication and genuine engagement, even in a difficult economy, confidence can be restored”, the monarch said, urging the delegates to see themselves not just as professionals, but as nation-builders with a moral obligation to influence public perception positively.
The Evo apex King, who is also a Fellow of the Institute, called on participants to approach the discussions with open minds and patriotic intent, stressing that every contribution must be geared towards rebuilding national cohesion and institutional trust.
“With a deep sense of honour and responsibility”, he declared, “I, His Majesty, King Leslie Nyebuchi Eke, JP, Eze Gbakagbaka, Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Nyerisi Eli Woji (Eze Woji XII) and Chairman, Supreme Forum of Ikwerre Government Recognized Traditional Rulers, formally declare open the 2025 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Rivers State Chapter to the glory of God and for the good of our society.”
At a post conference courtesy call at the instance of the Eze Gbakagbaka, the President of the Association, Dr. Ike Neliaku, described the Kung as an astute Fellow who is determined to add colour to the Institute regardless of any odds.
Also, the Council Member, Pastor Palunius Nsirim, who corroborated the President’s position, noted that His Majesty’s recognition was something valid given his contributions to the growth of the association.
“We value your presence with us. We will continue to benefit from your wise counsel. We won’t take your support for granted”, he said.
Climax of the visit was the decoration of Dr. Neliaku by the Evo apex King as a Honorary citizen of the Kingdom.

By: King Onunwor

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