Nation
Alesa Stakeholders, Key Investor Adopt Peace Model For Dev
Stakeholders in Alesa, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, have agreed on an innovative and strategic development model anchored on peace, security, and inclusive equity.
This is expected to create a new entry model for investors in the Niger Delta region and Rivers State in particular.
The stakeholders have, therefore, urged companies operating in Alesa, and indeed Eleme or investors intending to come in, to adopt the business model.
The people synergised with a world-class housing and property investor – the Mayor of Housing – to craft the development model as the driver of integrated infrastructure and human capacity in the area, which also hosts core players in the oil and gas industry, including Port Harcourt Refinery Company Limited, among others.
This is even as the leaders of the community have also given award to the Mayor of Housing, My-ACE China, who is the chief executive officer of Construction & Housing Mayor Limited.
The stakeholders agreed on the business and development model at the weekend at Alesa, Eleme, near Port Harcourt, while unveiling of the Alesa Vigilante Group, put together to secure the area and attract investors.
The strategy is part of a development model created by the Mayor of Housing to cause a seamless partnership between the real estate group and the host community ahead of the upcoming Alesa Highlands Sustainable Smart City Project.
The model entails that for an upcoming corporate entity to become a corporate citizen of the host community, it must create a blueprint for peace, security, and social development of the area.
The blueprint must also clearly spell out and securitise the interest and equity of the community with clear path of realisation of the set goals at every milestone.
Consequently, the investor and the community have reached an understanding and created security synergy to promote peace so that investments can flow into Alesa, even as they await the commencement of project execution by the Mayor of Housing.
This was unveiled on December 30, 2023, at Alesa when the youths launched their security vigilante backed by sensitive equipment procured and donated by the Mayor of Housing.
This model has already attracted commendations and reactions from personalities and stakeholders in Alesa, Eleme area.
Most speakers called on investors and companies to emulate the Mayor of Housing and to adopt the advanced Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy as an entry and engagement policy.
Explaining the model, the CEO of Construction & Housing Mayor Limited, My-ACE China, said his passion for housing development made seek ways of creating synergy between investors and host communities.
China said collaboration drives the concept: “I am a real estate success strategist, and the sobriquet did not come for nothing. It is a name I got on the back of coordinating and exponentially increasing value through collaboration and innovation. And, that is what we are doing here in Alesa.
“Collaboration is what multiplies value for me. It is the way I coordinated value in Abuja that made people to start calling me the ‘Governor of Housing’. I said no, Mayor is better than Governor, because Governor is becoming common in Nigeria. It is not a political appointment. It is on the back of merit in development and collaboration.”
In terms of development, China said, he sees himself as the most development-savvy real estate investor and developer in Africa, and the most collaborative businessman in this part of the world.
“One of the reasons is because I do not do development alone. For instance, what informed this peace project in Alesa is because I cannot come into Alesa and develop Alesa into the most sustainable smart city to come to Africa without security, and I cannot secure Alesa without the youths. Interestingly, youths are the most neglected and underrated segment of the populace. It is wise to tap into their latent force and use it as fuel for development.”
On his message to the benefiting Alesa community, the Mayor of Housing said: “All I can tell the community is that two things promote development and attract investment in any given location: The first is security that usually gives rise to peace; they are two sides of the same coin. After this, the next thing is hospitality. You can see how they have accepted and embraced us, and that is why we are doing what we are doing here. If Alesa was not hospitable to us, we would probably face our company’s business in Alesa only and go; but because they were hospitable to us, they accepted us with both hands, so that’s why we are doing this.”
According to him, any community, not just Alesa but across Africa and the world, that does not first get security, peace, and hospitality in terms of waivers and attractive packages that can attract investors, would struggle with development.
“They have done this to us. They have given us a lot of things that showed me they really wanted us to come in and develop the place. We are thus not doing this project haphazardly. We are doing it with our whole heart and commitment.
“On behalf of the Chairman of the Construction & Housing Mayor Limited, Senator Adawari Michael Pepple, we are committed to not only bringing development to Alesa but we want Port Harcourt to lead the way again in terms of development in Nigeria.”
He said the focus was to reverse the infamous Port Harcourt-Lagos dichotomy, saying: “We discovered a trend where workers with the international oil companies (IOCs) work in Port Harcourt but choose to live in Lagos.
“To solve that is not to pour lamentations over it every day. On our part, we want to tackle that by offering the nation an alternative to Lekki by bringing in a new Banana Island to Port Harcourt to compete with the Banana Island in Lagos.
“Ours is a high-end project, meaning it will attract high net worth personalities around the country and beyond. That is why we are excited by the 20,000-housing project Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State just launched.
“What the government and its partners are doing in Mbodo-Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area, is the low-end low-cost houses; and we are doing the high-end luxury houses. With the two going on at the same time in this part of the country, the world will know that Port Harcourt has bounced back in the real estate sector.”
He admitted that most companies develop and give tokens back later but quickly added that his firm was yet to start any activity in Alesa but it has started by giving value upfront to the people.
“This approach comes from deep-rooted thinkers. I am a real estate success strategist, and one of the routes to market is to warm up to your market. Any market you want to get into, do things to warm it up. You see companies doing promos and stuff like that. We deal in development, and a bedrock of that is peace. It is only real estate developers like us that would invest and promote peace first in an area they want to get into.
“It is interesting that this development will be starting in about March 2024, but we started our collaboration and CSR way back before now. We have even had Christmas package before now. Any real farmer will make the ground wet before moving in to farm. Alesa has accepted us and other investors can try this model.”
On the award to him as ‘Hero of Alesa Development’ by the Alesa community, the Mayor of Housing described it as the most important award he has received.
This, China said, was because the project was going to be his directly curated estate because others before now were done with other brands.
He stated: “As I always say, the only thing more satisfying in this life than vision accomplished is mission accomplished. Watch out for the vision of the new Banana Island as we turn Alesa into a new city in Port Harcourt that will be the envy of other cities around the world. I remain committed and grateful to the Alesa community.”
Reacting, a prominent leader in the community, oil industry union leader, and chief executive of many companies, High Chief Sunny Nkpe, said what Mayor of Housing was doing was unprecedented in Alesa.
Nkpe agreed that the model would definitely help build lasting relationship between investors and host communities, insisting that he didn’t take the information about what the Mayor of Housing was doing seriously until he saw things by himself.
He urged the youths and the vigilante unit to work hard to justify the objectives of the initiative.
The second in command to the king of Alesa, who is also the spokesman and staff bearer of the stool, Mene Obarike White, urged other companies to adopt the model for a new era of peace and stability in host communities.
White said: “My impression is, when you come in the name of developing us and you are taking from us for your benefit, it doesn’t make any impact. You buy from me N2million and you will sell N7million, just for you to make the money and go away. That is not good. The Mayor of Housing has come to stay, and that is the proper thing to do, and this kingdom is behind him.”
On his part, Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) of Alesa Highlands Oboriginal Land Owners, Mr Emmanuel Olaka, said this was the first time the people were receiving a strong gesture from a company that was coming to their community.
Olaka noted: “I want to use this opportunity to let other investors know that this is a community that is ready to work with companies for peace and stability. Mayor of Housing is not coming to buy and sell land, but is coming to develop the place for us.
“I have the blueprint of what is happening there; by this time next year, Alesa will not be the same again. This is because of what the Mayor of Housing has come to do. The leaders of the community are here to bear witness to what we are saying. The Palace Secretary, Godwin Jibia, is here. The secretary of Alesa youth has affirmed that we are not selling land to any other investors. Alesa people have accepted the Mayor of Housing as the one to come and develop the land for Alesa community. That is why he has brought all these gadgets.
“This is the first time we are receiving such a gesture from investors in our community. Big companies and organisations on our land have not done this. We, thus, invite them to emulate this model. We actually appreciate the Mayor of Housing for thinking out this measure of a project.
“The entire community is happy; the elders, the youths, the chiefs, the paramount ruler, Emperor Nkpe, we are all happy because this is the first time that somebody has not started even to clear the place but has started investing in the development of the community. It is good to consider the security of the land because if the community is not safe, then other developments cannot go on.”
The President-General of Alesa Youths Federation, Nwafor Nwitor, expressed huge satisfaction with what has happened.
Nwitor said, “I’m very happy today because for a long time, I have not seen this kind of thing in my community. We have over 10 companies operating in Alesa area but we did not see this. I thank the Mayor of Housing for this opportunity given to our youths by donating these gadgets, especially mobile radio units for security purposes.
“We’ll make good use of them and pray God to replenish his treasure. We have big companies in Alesa but they have not considered this approach. For over 60 years that companies have operated in our community, nobody has donated any item to the community for security.”
He said the entire youth of Alesa community were very happy for what the Mayor of Housing has done.
“When the Mayor of Housing came into our land, he called me to work with him. I said no, I will not work with somebody that came into my land and wants to sell it away. He said no, he is not buying and selling. I decided to work with him. I have worked and moved with him, and when I saw that he is real, I now signed that the Mayor of Housing is real and is coming to stay in Alesa. So, the entire Alesa land will support him.
“We have other investors who come here and buy our land and sell. So, we started confronting them. Some of them don’t answer my call anymore because I told them the truth, to follow the footsteps or the model of Mayor of Housing, and not to come to buy and sell. So, today, with this, I believe that Alesa will be peaceful. And I’m telling any person that is coming into Alesa to copy this model.”
Dances and carnival processions took place all around Alesa to mark their good fortunes and happy end of the year.
An award was also presented to the Mayor of Housing as sign of being assimilated into the Alesa community social structure.
The Arewa /Northern Community in Rivers state has appointed Alhaji Shuaibu Wada Madawakin Tilda as the Acting Dan Buran Rivers State.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Cabinet Council.
The appointment follows the dethronement of the former occupant,
Alhaji Musa Saeedu.
A statement from the Palace of the Sarkin Arewa/Northern Community (Sarkin Hausawan) in Rivers State and signed by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Hussaini Isah said the dethronement is with immediate effect.
The statement further disclosed that the decision follows an allegation of acts of insubordination and conduct considered contrary to the values, discipline, and traditions of the Northern community perpetuated by the Fmr Dan Buran.
The statement advised the public to discontinue to recognising and addressing Alhaji Musa Saeedu as the Dan Buran of the State, adding that he no longer holds the title and remained suspended.
Responding via telephone interview, Alhaji Musa Saeedu said he will not make any comment regarding the matter.
The Alliance Française of Port Harcourt opened its doors to more than sixty French language teachers from Port Harcourt and across Rivers State at the weekend for an afternoon dedicated to celebration, creativity, and community spirit.
The event which was Supported by the Embassy of France in Nigeria, forms part of the global celebrations marking the Journée Internationale du Professeur de Français (French Teachers Day) a day officially set aside to observe worldwide every 20 November.
The Tide Entertainment reports that every year, French teachers around the globe are honoured for the passion and dedication they bring into their classrooms.In 2025, the theme chosen “Chanter, jouer, enseigner: la francophonie en musique” (Sing, Play, Teach: Francophonie in Music) invited the entire community to explore the joy of teaching through song, performance, and artistic expression.
A Day that brings teachers together for the French teaching community in Port Harcourt, this celebration is much more than a ceremony, it is a rare moment to step away from the classroom and reconnect with the simple joy of sharing, learning, and creating together.
The Alliance Française transformed the occasion into a space buzzing with music and entertainment. Teachers from primary schools, secondary schools, universities, and adult learning centers gathered to exchange ideas, reconnected with colleagues, and discover each other’s talents in an atmosphere filled with warmth and friendship.
Honouring Creativity with the theme “Our Teachers Have Talent!”This year, the Embassy of France launched a national contest titled “Nos profs ont du talent!” (“Our Teachers Have Talent !”), participants were invited to either interpret or create a Francophone song.For a month, from 13 October to 13 November 2025, teachers from across the country submitted their performances online, filling the digital space with francophone music.While winners of this nationwide competition were announced.
According to the the Director, Mrs Marina Lacal, Alliance Française Port Harcourt, excitement and anticipation were added to the celebrations, saying that in Port Harcourt, the festivities went even further. Port Harcourt experienced a Unique Celebration that went beyond the online competition, Alliance Française Port Harcourt created something special, an event where teachers met physically, shared moment of joy, and present their musical talents live.On stage, teachers sang the songs they love and those they have created, showcasing the creativity that animates their classrooms every day.
She explained that that off stage, they( participants )shared stories, network with colleagues, laughed together, and celebrated their unique contribution to the promotion of the French language in Rivers State.This gathering is also a moment of recognition. Every day, French teachers open doors for thousands of learners, children discovering their first French words, teenagers preparing for exams, university students shaping their future careers, and adults embracing new opportunities.
“Today, the spotlight shines on them. More Than an Event, A Tribute to Their Dedication The 2025 celebration in Port Harcourt was a heartfelt tribute to the teachers who make French come alive, those who inspire, guide, and encourage learners with unwavering commitment,” Mrs. Lacal said
The Director explained that It recognises their resilience, their creativity, and their essential role in building bridges between cultures.By offering them a moment of relaxation, fun, artistic expression, and professional networking, Alliance Française Port Harcourt reaffirms its mission to support educators, strengthen the teaching community, and celebrate the vibrant energy of the Francophonie in Nigeria.
Climax of the exciting event was the presentation of prizes to winners of the competition.
The Chairman Advisory Committee on Entertainment and Performing Arts, Khana Local Government Area, Hon. Lexy M. Mueka has expressed gratitude to the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area Dr. Thomas Bariere for his support and vision in promoting entertainment as a tool for peacebuilding and youth engagement.
Hon Mueka made this known to the Tide Entertainment during a recently concluded concert tagged “OGONI ARISE CONCERT” held at the No. 6 Field, Old Port Harcourt Township.
According to him, the concert was not just an event but a movement aimed at reawakening the cultural consciousness of the Ogoni people and inspiring the younger generation to use their talents positively.
The Tide Entertainment reports that the event, organized by Triple 3 Entertainment under the auspices of the office of the Chairman Advisory committee on Entertainment and Performing Arts to the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, was a vibrant celebration of peace, unity, and cultural renaissance among the Ogoni people.
“Conceptualized as a platform to promote social harmony, empower young creatives, and showcase the rich artistic heritage of Ogoniland, the Ogoni Arise Concert succeeded in bringing together community leaders, entertainers, and the general public in a rare show of solidarity. The event featured electrifying performances by indigenous and regional artistes, dance troupes, comedians, and cultural ambassadors, all united under one message — Ogoni is rising again,” Hon. Mueka said.
“The Ogoni Arise Concert was designed to remind us of who we are — a people of strength, creativity, and unity. We wanted to show that entertainment can be a bridge for peace, a voice for our youth, and a celebration of our identity,” he added.
The event also featured a special Award Presentation Ceremony recognizing distinguished Ogoni sons and daughters who have made remarkable contributions in areas such as leadership, humanitarian service, creative excellence, and cultural promotion. The awards added a touch of prestige and purpose, reinforcing the concert’s theme of celebrating excellence while inspiring future generations.
Security at the event venue was top-notch, turnout of attendance impressive, and the atmosphere electric throughout the night.
Meanwhile, guests and participants had described the event as “historic, well-organized, and truly uplifting.”
