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Buhari Confers National Honours On Fashola, Okonjo-Iweala, Kyari, Isiguzo, 443 Others

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President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, conferred national honours to 449 Nigerians and friends of Nigeria.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and the President’s Chief of State, Ibrahim Gambari, were also in attendance at the event, which was held in Abuja.
The awardees include the President’s late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari; Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State; Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Ishaq Oloyede; the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola; President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chief Chris Isiguzo; amongst others.
Those who are awarded the honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) are Okonjo-Iweala, Hon Justice Olukayode Ariwoola and Hon Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad – the current and erstwhile Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), respectively; the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms Amina J. Mohammed; and renowned diplomat, Professor Tijjani Muhammad-Bande.
Nigerians with the honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) are Gbajabiamila; Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha; Dr Folashade Yemi-Esan; former speaker, Yakubu Dogara; Justice Kudirat M. Kekere-Ekun; Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad; Justice Monica Bolna’an, and Donghan Mansem.
Prominent among awardees of Commander of the Order of Niger (CON) is Delta State Governor and vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, and some state governors like Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna, Prof Babagana Zulum of Borno, are also recipients.
The awardees were given the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON); Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR);Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON); Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR); and Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) awards.
Reacting, the National Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) hailed the decision of the Federal Government to honour seasoned journalists as unprecedented.
In a statement signed by the National Secretary, Shuaibu Usman Leman, yesterday, the NUJ said that the union would remain eternally grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari for the honour done its leaders.
The statement read, “The National Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists expresses its gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief, Muhammadu Buhari for conferring on the union’s President, Christopher Ikechukwu Isiguzo the award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
“We equally commend President Muhammadu Buhari for honouring Alhaji YakubuIbn Mohammed, immediate past DG of NTA and Mr Femi Adesina, Senior Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media who received the award of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) and Malam Halilu Ibrahim Dantiye, former President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) who was conferred with Member of the Order of the Niger (MON). We felicitate with these worthy Ambassadors of the Union.
“Chief Christopher Isiguzo, MFR, certainly has the creativity and determination to do so many things in an extraordinary way. The union’s NEC joins him in feeling proud for his most recent achievement. Warm congratulations to our dear leader.
“We commend the ability of the NUJ President to relentlessly search for solutions to problems and find innovative ways to improve the fortunes of the union. These are the keys to this success and many more to come.
“It should be also noted that the President’s perseverance is an inspiration to everyone in the National Executive Council of the union and undoubtedly, he has earned all the accolades coming his way.
“While encouraging all the award recipients to continue to do more, we extend to them, as always, our profound support. Congratulations!”
Also reacting, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) praised the conferment of the national honours on its leaders as extraordinary and legendary.
A statement titled, “National Honour on Distinguished Journalists; A Plus for Democracy”, signed by NAWOJ President, LadiBala, said that women journalists in the country were proud of the exemplary leadership provided by the honourees, and commended the Federal Government for recognising hardwork and merit.
The statement read, “A new dawn for Nigeria’s democracy is in the horizon following the recognition of the contributions of distinguished, prominent Nigeria’s finest journalists who have contributed in moving the country forward in no small way.
“The conferment of National Award by the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria on the immediate past Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and seasoned administrator, Mr. YakubuIbn Mohammed; and the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President and former President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Femi Adesina, with the Award of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), and the Award of the Member of the Federal Republic (MFR) on the National President, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr. Chris Isiguzo; and the Award of Member of the Order of Niger (MON) on the former President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, a communication strategist, Mr. Halilu Ibrahim Dantiye, deserve commendation and praises.
“The deserving award on these distinguished journalists is a clear testament of the fact that the role of journalists and the media at large in the development of the country is accorded genuine recognition and appreciated by the federal government.
“It is equally worthy of note that this is the first time in the history of Journalism in Nigeria that such quality numbers are being recognized and so honoured by the federal government.
“The honours will certainly serve as a morale booster and lubricant to inspire other journalists to continue to provide quality information dissemination as well as generate better media contents and serve as the needed oxygen that will strengthen the ideals and principle of democracy for the overall good of the society.
“The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), wishes to congratulate the four Distinguished journalists on the conferment of the National Awards and wish them higher and greater heights in their future endeavours.
“The awards and recognition, speak volumes and indeed, a thing of pride to all journalists.
“Accordingly, NAWOJ commends President Muhammadu Buhari for the kind gesture accorded the 437 Nigerians who have rendered meritorious services towards the growth and development of the country.
“The 2022 National Honour Awards of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will surely be remembered for its unique choices of the awardees”.
Meanwhile, a total of 447 out of over 5,000 nominees received were presented the National Honours Awards, the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, George Akume has said.
Akume stated this in his opening address at the National Honours Awards Investiture at the International Conference Centre, Abuja on Tuesday.
According to Akume, only 447 persons made the hallowed list out of all the nominees, who were drawn from various walks of life across the public and private sectors.
The National Honours Awards was established by the National Honours Act of No 6 in 1964. It took retroactive effect from October 1, 1963.
The Act empowers the President by warrant, the Nigerian Order of Dignity to honour deserving citizens who have contributed to the development and progress of the country in any field of endeavour.
According to the Minister, 447 citizens and foreigners labelled as “Nigerians and Friends of Nigeria,” received various honours ranging from the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger and Federal Republic Medals.
The GCON category include: former Nigeria’s Finance Minister and current Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, NgoziOkonjo-Iweala; Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, current Chief Justice of Nigeria, OlukayodeAriwoola, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Tanko Mohammed; Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, and former President of the United Nations General Assembly, Tijjani Mohammed-Bande.
Some of the 13 persons who will be honoured posthumously include former Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari (CFR), former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, and Aircraft Man Matthew Oyedepo, the latter two who died in a fatal plane crash in May 2021.
Dignitaries, who graced the occasion are Vice President YemiOsinbajo, Senate President, Ahmed Laman, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief Justice of Nigeria, OlukayodeAriwoola, the President’s Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and traditional Rulers including the Emir of Lafia, Sidi Mohammad, who is the Chairman of the National Honours Awards Committee.

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Cleric Predicts Breakthrough, Warns of Political and Security Challenges in 2026

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January 12, 2026

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The Founder and Senior Pastor of Liberty Hour Ministry, Port Harcourt, Apostle Chikadibia John Wodo, has expressed optimism that 2026 will usher in uncommon breakthroughs and good fortune for Nigeria, particularly in the areas of political, economic, and spiritual development, with Rivers State playing a key role.
Apostle Wodo made this declaration in his special New Year message, where he stated that individuals and forces standing as obstacles to the manifestation of God’s will in the new year would face bitter consequences. He cautioned that corrupt political leaders risk backlash from the very people they govern if they fail to change their ways.
The cleric warned against the escalation of political tension in Rivers State and called on residents and religious leaders to intensify prayers for lasting peace. He also urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to remain resolute in leadership, reminding him to uphold his vows to God by continually seeking divine guidance in decision-making and governance amid evolving challenges.
Assessing the broader national situation, Apostle Wodo called on Nigerian leaders to repent and govern with a heightened sense of responsibility, noting that the cries and supplications of the masses have drawn divine attention. He further warned of alleged plots to disrupt a smooth democratic transition in 2027 and appealed for prayers to avert such an agenda.
According to him, Nigerians are yearning for genuine socio-economic transformation and freedom from political oppression. He challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to redeem its credibility by ensuring free, fair, and credible elections devoid of undue political interference.
The cleric also predicted that insecurity could worsen in the coming year and warned of the possible emergence of a strange ailment, stressing that Nigeria’s political challenges can only be resolved through equity, fairness, and justice, especially in the treatment of minorities, the vulnerable, and the disadvantaged.
Apostle Wodo further claimed that some clerics and General Overseers have compromised their faith and incurred divine displeasure, calling for sincere repentance to restore their relationship with God. He also advised early preparedness to mitigate natural disasters such as fire outbreaks and flooding, particularly in rural communities.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to remain prayerful, vigilant, and united as the nation navigates the opportunities and challenges of 2026.
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Ado Royal Family Disowns Alleged Installation of Amanyanabo of Okrika

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6 days ago

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January 12, 2026

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The Ado Royal Family of Okrika has firmly disassociated itself from the alleged self-enthronement of Hon. Godknows Tam George as the Amanyanabo of Okrika and Clan Head, describing the action as unlawful, illegitimate, and a threat to the peace of the ancient kingdom.
The family, which described itself as the sole legitimate custodian of the history, traditions, and stool of the Amanyanabo of Okrika, stated that it has not installed any king and has not commenced the formal process for such installation.
This position was contained in a statement jointly signed by Prof. Sotonye Fyneface-Ogan (Ogan Ado Royal House), Alabo Engr. Henry Semenitari Abam (Abam Ado Royal House), and Alabo Prince Oriyeorikabo Fibika (Fibika Ado Royal House). The statement was presented to journalists on Friday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Moscow Road, Port Harcourt.
According to the statement, the purported action by Hon. Tam George amounts to “a blatant assault on the collective integrity of the Okrika people” and constitutes “a criminal act of impersonation with the potential to destabilize the peace and socio-political fabric of our ancient kingdom.”
The family stressed that Hon. Tam George was never presented as a candidate by the Ado Royal Family and did not undergo any of the mandatory rites, consultations, or confirmations required by Okrika customs.
“The Ado Royal Family has never presented him as a candidate, nor has he undergone any of the prerequisite rites, consultations, or confirmations. His actions are those of a lone interloper, operating in a vacuum of legitimacy,” the statement read.
It further emphasized that the stool of the Amanyanabo of Okrika and Clan Head is a sacred institution rooted in centuries-old traditions and spiritual heritage, not something to be claimed through academic qualifications, political ambition, or personal interest.
Speaking during the briefing, Prof. Sotonye Fyneface-Ogan reiterated that the process of crowning an Amanyanabo is clearly defined and has not yet begun.
“To crown a king, there is a process, and those processes have not taken place,” he said. “We are the chiefs; we are the ones that will be part of the selection. Honestly, we have not started the selection process; we have only begun discussions.”
He explained that during the proper selection process, chiefs supervise nominations from each constituent house, with each house expected to nominate two or three candidates—steps which, he noted, have not been carried out.
“I want to assure the public that none of the Ado family chiefs has given Hon. Tam George any sign of approval,” Prof. Fyneface-Ogan added.
Efforts to obtain the reaction of Hon. Godknows Tam George proved unsuccessful. Repeated attempts through phone calls, text messages, and WhatsApp messages were unsuccessful, as he did not respond as of the time of filing this report.
By: Tonye Orabere
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PH Traders Laud RSG’s Fire Safety Sensitisation Campaign

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6 days ago

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January 12, 2026

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Traders in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have commended the Rivers State Government (RSG) for its ongoing fire emergency and safety sensitisation campaign across major markets in the state.
Speaking on behalf of traders at Nowa Market, Borikiri Old Port Harcourt Township, the market chairman, Mr. Innocent Chukwuma, praised Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara for initiating the awareness programme in designated markets and public places.
Chukwuma described the exercise as timely and impactful, noting that it was the first time the Rivers State Government had carried out such a campaign in Nowa Market. According to him, the sensitisation would educate traders on fire emergencies and the necessary precautions to prevent outbreaks.
He urged traders to strictly apply the safety measures taught during the campaign, both during business hours and after closing their shops.
“I want to thank the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Ministry of Special Duties for coming to our aid, especially during this dry season,” Chukwuma said.
“This is the first time we are seeing government presence in our market in this manner. We lack words to thank our God-sent governor, particularly for providing us with fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment.
“We will do exactly what we have been taught today to ensure there is no fire incident in our market. We will always switch off all electrical appliances before closing for the day,” he added.
Similarly, the Chairman of Mile 3 USTRE Modern Market, Mr. Gift Nkesi Benjamin, applauded the state government for the distribution of fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment.
“We will adhere strictly to the safety guidelines and instructions given to us today to ensure there is no fire outbreak in our market,” Benjamin stated.
“On behalf of Mile 3 USTRE Modern Market, I sincerely thank the Rivers State Government and the Ministry of Special Duties for bringing this important campaign to our market.”
At Rumuwoji Market (popularly known as Mile 1 Market), the Chairman, Chief Hon. Godpower O. Wobo, also expressed gratitude to the state government for the sensitisation exercise. He assured that traders would comply fully with government directives to prevent future fire incidents.
Responding on behalf of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties, Mr. Sokari D. P. George, thanked the traders for their cooperation and warm reception.
He emphasised that safety remains paramount, especially during the dry season, and urged traders to be cautious in their daily activities.
Mr. George disclosed that the theme of the 2025 fire safety campaign is “Controlled Fire Is a Friend, Uncontrolled Fire Is an Enemy.”
He cautioned against refuse and bush burning around buildings and warned traders not to store fuel in unauthorized places such as homes, offices, markets, or public buildings.
“Follow all fire safety guidelines and instructions,” he urged.
The permanent secretary also noted that Governor Fubara prefers a zero-fireworks approach during festive periods to ensure public safety, stressing that the government has invested heavily in markets and expects traders to take responsibility for protecting them.
By: Kiadum Edookor
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