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Eid-el-Kabir: FEC, VC, Sultan, Others Seek National Unity

Published

4 years ago

July 11, 2022

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has felicitated Muslim faithful on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
FEC urged Muslims to continue to promote national unity in order to enhance growth and development in all sectors of the country’s economy.
It made this known via a statement issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, last Sunday.
The statement read: “The Federal Executive Council (FEC) felicitates with the Muslim faithful on the joyous occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
“It urges the adherents to use this opportunity to continue to reflect on its lessons which include love, obedience, sacrifice and compassion among others.
“FEC, therefore, implores believers to continue to promote national unity, peaceful co-existence for stability in order to enhance growth and development in all sectors of the nation’s economy.
“It wishes Nigerians a happy and successful Eid-el-Kabir celebration.”
Similarly, the Vice Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt, Prof Owunari Georgewill, also felicitated with the Muslim community on the occasion of the 1443 AH Eid-el-Kabir festival.
In a goodwill message he personally signed in Port Harcourt, Georgewill said, “We heartily felicitate with all Muslim faithful in the University of Port Harcourt and beyond.
“As we mark this year’s festival, we would like to reiterate the significance of Sallah which is obedience to the Almighty God and sacrifice for the good of one another. We pray that these virtues are sustained during and after the festivity.
“May this celebration bring about a renewed faith, love, understanding and good neighbourliness amongst ourselves and humanity at large.
“Equally, let me use the period to thank staff and students, and indeed, the entire university community for the wonderful support this administration has enjoyed since assumption of office in July, 2021, and to reassure you all of my commitment to make a more prosperous UNIPORT by the grace of God.
“Finally, we wish to use this medium to call on all Nigerians to come together, irrespective of our religious, ethnic and political differences to contribute our own quota to the development of this country, I have no doubt that Nigeria will be the envy of other nations if we do so.
“On behalf of the University Management, I wish you all a wonderful celebration”, the VC said.
Also, the President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, urged Muslims to imbibe the spirit of forgiveness and sacrifices among one another.
Abubakar, who made the assertion in his Sallah message to Nigerians in Sokoto said, Muslims should hold on to the lessons of Eid-el-Kabir.
“We should continue to thank the Almighty Allah for His blessings and gift of life to celebrate this great moment.
“The security challenges we are facing in our country has continue to remain a source of concern and worrisome.
“As such we should use this period of worship to pray for our leaders, security agencies and the nation to prosper.
“Moreover, as leaders we will not get tired of calling on the citizens to continue to pray for our country, therefore, we should sustain more prayers for peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria.
“Our security agencies should always be appreciated and encourage for the sustained effort and commitment to address our current situation,” he said.
The Sultan further called on Muslim Ummah in the country to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to elect leaders of their desire.
“Our PVC is the only weapon we have to elect leaders we desire, as such I urged on all Muslim who are eligible to get their voter cards to be able to vote the leaders we deserve in the country,” he said.
He appealed to politicians to be fair to Allah, and ensure peaceful electioneering processes in the country.
Abubakar appreciated the Sokoto State Government for its sustained support to the needy and vulnerable in the society.
He also appreciated security agencies for their dedication in addressing security challenges in the country.
Also reacting, the national leadership of both the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) congratulated Muslim faithful on the occasion of the Eid Muburak celebration.
Their statements were signed by the NAWOJ National President, Ladi Bala; and NUJ National President, Chris Isiguzo, in Abuja, last Saturday.
In her statement, Bala said, “While thanking God for the spiritual ceremony, NAWOJ appeals to Nigerians especially Muslims to imbibe the lessons of generosity in love, sacrifice and kindness as demonstrated by Prophet Mohammed (PBH).
“The association notes that Nigeria at this critical point more than ever before, needs divine intervention to overcome most of the challenges confronting and threatening its existence and unity.
“It is, therefore, important for Muslims to use the occasion of the Eid-el-Fitri celebration to pray to God concerning most of the national issues for a peaceful and United Nigeria.
“NAWOJ notes with concern the neglect of family values by many parents for the pursuit of wealth, hence the unacceptable negative behaviours in some children.
“NAWOJ, therefore, appeal to parents particularly mothers to pay more attention to their children and wards by instilling the needed and proper values and fear of God in them for a better Nigeria.
“The association equally pray God to release the blessings of Eid Muburak upon all our Muslim Ummah and lead Nigeria to a peaceful and successful 2023 General Election”.
In his Salah message, Isiguzo said, “The National Secretariat of Nigeria Union of Journalists extends its warmest wishes to all Muslims in the country on this solemn festival of Eid.
“We pray that the blessings of Almighty Allah will fill your lives with peace, joy and good health. Barka Da Sallah!
“We advise all Muslim faithful to act upon the commandments of Allah, and also about the duties they have to perform to become good Muslims.
“At these hard times, we urge all Muslims to imbibe the lessons of Eid-Al-Adha celebrations which encourage them to forgive, give, share and care for one another.
“Just like Prophet Ibrahim did, when he believed God, took control of his life, and guaranteed his heart desires; same way if we can trust God Almighty, He is going to take care of us.
“While encouraging cohesion and peaceful coexistence, we should all remember that Islam appreciates diversity in the society, and thus, the need for respect and tolerance among Muslims and between Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
“We charge all Nigerians to learn the habit of doing good at all times to promote peaceful coexistence in the country”.

News

Group Advocates Indigenous Language Sustainability, Calls for Policy Action

Published

2 days ago

January 19, 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.

News

Rivers Boundary Commission Steps In to Resolve Okoloma–Ban-Ogoi Land Dispute

Published

2 days ago

January 19, 2026

The Tide

As part of deliberate efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and prevent communal conflict, the Rivers State Boundary Commission has intervened in the long-standing boundary dispute between Okoloma (Afam) Community in Oyigbo Local Government Area and Ban-Ogoi Community in Tai Local Government Area of the state.

The intervention followed a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Commission at the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Friday, January 16, 2026. The meeting was aimed at setting up a technical committee that will work towards an amicable and lasting resolution of the land dispute between the two neighbouring communities.

Speaking at the meeting, the Deputy Governor of Rivers State and Chairman of the Rivers State Boundary Commission, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, stressed the importance of peace, dialogue and mutual understanding in resolving boundary-related disagreements. She urged all parties to approach the process with sincerity and restraint, noting that sustainable peace can only be achieved through constructive engagement.

Prof. Odu advised the communities to emulate the peaceful disposition and leadership style of Governor Siminalayi Fubara by presenting their grievances and petitions without bitterness or rancour, assuring them of the Commission’s commitment to fairness and justice.

She also expressed satisfaction with the presence of the Chairmen of Tai and Oyigbo Local Government Areas at the meeting, describing it as a clear demonstration of their resolve to maintain peace and harmony between the affected communities.

In their separate remarks, the Chairman of Oyigbo Local Government Area, Dr. Okechukwu Akara Nwaogu, and his Tai Local Government Area counterpart, Hon. Mbakpone Okpe, reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring peaceful coexistence among their people. They emphasized that peace is critical to attracting development and investment to the area.

Both council chairmen commended the Rivers State Boundary Commission for its proactive intervention, expressing optimism that the establishment of a technical committee would pave the way for a fair and enduring resolution of the dispute.

News

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

Published

2 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.