City Crime

RIVERS PEACEFUL, CONDUCIVE FOR INVESTMENTS, REPS AFFIRM

Published

2 years ago

July 29, 2024

The leaderships of the midstream and downstream sub-sectors of Nigeria’s petroleum industry have affirmed that Rivers State is peaceful, hospitable and conducive for investments, urging potential investors around the world to discountenance negative narratives about political crisis by enemies of the State, and make strategic decisions to invest in Africa’s largest hydrocarbon hub, for exciting returns on investment for shareholders and other stakeholders.

The Chairmen of the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream and Midstream), Hon Ikeagwuonu Michael Ugochinyere (PDP Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency, Imo State); and Hon Prince Henry Odianosen Okojie (Esan North East/Esan South East Federal Constituency, Edo State); made the affirmation in their separate remarks at the three-day retreat of the joint committee in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

About 100 actors in the sector are participating in the retreat, out of which no fewer than 80 are legislators representing federal constituencies across the six geopolitical zones of the country, while others represented oil and gas companies, major and independent marketers, refineries and petrochemicals firms, among others.

Hon Ugochinyere said that the State is peaceful because of the good leadership and responsible governance approach adopted by the Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who has remained focused on the ball, while facilitating the ease of doing business and creating the right policies to enable investments to thrive in the State.

He added that if the State was not peaceful, the huge number of National Assembly committees on oversight functions, and the litany of investors and other corporate institutions who have visited the State over the last couple of months to explore abounding opportunities would not have been possible, and advised well-meaning Nigerians and the international community to disregard those trying to demarket the State.

Hon Ugochinyere said: “We are gathered here in Port Harcourt, united by a shared commitment to enhance our regulatory frameworks, promote transparency, and foster sustainable development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector…

“I extend my sincere gratitude to His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for graciously hosting us and for his unwavering support. Your leadership and hospitality are greatly appreciated”.

Speaking earlier, he said: “Today is not a day for politics. We are here in Rivers State for development purposes. We want to appeal to the IGP (Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun), here (Rivers State) has been very peaceful. That is why our retreat is holding in Rivers State. If Rivers State is not peaceful, over 80 federal lawmakers from the midstream and downstream petroleum sector will not be coming here for their three-day retreat.

“We will want this peace to continue. That is why we are appealing to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) not to take sides in this crisis. He should allow the rule of law to prevail, and stop aiding, in any way, the other side who are from Abuja”.

Speaking further on the role of the police in the political crisis in the State, Hon Ugochinyere said: “But I must say this as a Nigerian, not because I belong to any interest or divide in the struggle: That respecting the rights of the people must be paramount to the Police Force. The Police must not act in a way that they are seen as giving undue advantage to the Abuja politician.

“The Governor (Sir Siminalayi Fubara) deserves some respect; the people of Rivers State deserve some respect. Indiscriminate arrests; indiscriminate attacks; these are things that are not welcome, and are not acceptable in any democratic setting”.

Speaking on the retreat, Hon Ugochinyere, added that the peaceful atmosphere in the State was evident in the congenial and enabling environment for fruitful dialogue and thriving investments and businesses, and a clear contrast to what detractors of the State were painting in their orchestrated political crisis.

He stated that the retreat was pivotal in changing the narratives, and provides stakeholders with robust platform to deliberate on burning issues while exploring strategic solutions for the betterment of the industry.

The leader of the G-60 lawmakers further said, “As we commence this retreat, I wish to emphasize the significance of our gathering. The Petroleum Sector remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, and it is incumbent upon us to ensure its efficiency, transparency and sustainability. Our discussions over the next few days will be instrumental in shaping the future of this vital industry.

“We are privileged to have an array of distinguished speakers and experts who will share their insights on various aspects of the petroleum industry, from understanding objectives and significance of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), to exploring the roles and responsibilities of the newly established regulatory bodies.

“Our ongoing forensic legislative investigation into the anomalies within the oil and gas sector is crucial for restoring trust and ensuring integrity in our industry. We are addressing allegations concerning the importation of substandard petroleum products, non-availability of crude oil supply to domestic refineries and other critical issues that threaten the stability and security of our petroleum sector.”

Speaking on the ease of doing business in the State, Hon Ugochinyere specifically named Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals and Fertiliser Company as one example of the litany of thriving investments in Rivers State, which shareholders are genuinely proud of, saying that more of such businesses populate the State, making it an enticing environment for investors.

In his remarks, Hon Okojie, said: “We gather here in the dynamic city of Port Harcourt, at the prestigious Presidential Hotel, under the theme; ‘Enhancing Regulatory Frameworks, Promoting Transparency, and Fostering Sustainable Development in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Sector.’ This retreat is a critical convergence of minds and efforts aimed at addressing the pressing issues and exploring the immense opportunities within our sector”.

Represented by member representing Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, Hon Marie Enenimiete Ebikake, Hon Okojie said, “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, our host, for his unwavering support and warm hospitality. We are truly honoured to be in the presence of such distinguished leadership”.

Saying that the warm reception and hospitality was characteristic of the good people of Rivers State, he added that the story of the success of the oil and gas industry cannot be written in Nigeria without Rivers State, as a dominant hub, which has played a key role in the development and transformation of the nation’s economy.

Hon Okojie, said that deliberations from the retreat will positively impact the oil and gas industry, especially in providing clearer understanding of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) governance and institutional frameworks to promote growth and sustainability in the sector.

He said, “I would like to highlight the importance of our interaction with stakeholders in the midstream and downstream sub-sectors. This engagement is crucial for understanding the challenges faced by our industry, and collaboratively devising solutions that promote growth and sustainability.”

In his keynote speech, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said the 10th National Assembly is committed to deploying effective legislative reforms to strengthen the operations, create competitive business-friendly environment, institutionalise transparency and sustainable development in the oil and gas industry.

Represented by the Leader of the North-West Caucus in the House, Hon. Sada Soli, the speaker also noted that the National Assembly has already commenced the processes of legislative reforms that will enhance holistic governance overhaul with a view to transforming the nation’s major economic driver and revenue earner in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Rt. Hon. Abbas said that the federal lawmakers were dedicated to fostering an environment to effectively drive the objectives of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in promoting the key indices of ease of doing business while providing stakeholders the level playing field to participate in the sector.

He said, “The theme of this retreat speaks volume on the commitment of the 10th House towards repositioning the energy sector of our economy. Our nation’s economic power is derived and dependent on oil. Over the years, the debate over the regulation, transparency and sustainable development of the sector has dominated discussions even after the passage and coming into force of the Petroleum Industry Act in the 9th Assembly.

“This retreat is, therefore, an opportunity to reflect on the issues once again, and make recommendations to the House on the best approaches to promote transparency and sustainable development in the sector”.

Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Rivers State Chapter, Comrade Tekena ThankGod Ikpaki, and the Chairman, Major Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (MPMAN), Rivers State Chapter, Sir Francis Dimkpa, delivered goodwill messages at the event, where they expressed concerns over the multiplicity of regulatory bodies and fees slammed on marketers.

Speakers at the retreat include the Executive Commissioner, Corporate Services and Administration, Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Dr Kelechi Ofoegbu; Chairman, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; Director-General, Akwa Ibom State Investment Council, Obong Ibe Owodiong-Idemeko; and Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacchaeus Adelabu Adedeji.

Also, expert resource panellists included; Barrister Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr Farouk Ahmed; Chief Executive Officer, NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe; Group Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kolo Kyari; Comptroller General of Customs, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi; Director General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke; and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote.

The retreat wrapped up with a facility tour of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Company Limited at Eleme Local Government Area of the State. yesterday.

City Crime

Nigeria’s World Cup Absence A Big Miss – Terry

Published

3 weeks ago

June 12, 2026

The Tide

England and Chelsea legend John Terry has expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that the Super Eagles will be sorely missed as the tournament started yesterday Tidesports source reports.

Eric Chelle’s side finished second in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers behind South Africa, who secured one of the automatic qualification spots for the tournament.

The Super Eagles kept their hopes alive by defeating Gabon in the playoff semi-finals but saw their dreams shattered after losing to the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties in the decisive playoff final.

The defeat condemned Nigeria to a second successive absence from the World Cup, having also failed to qualify for the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The Nigeria Football Federation later challenged DR Congo’s qualification, alleging the use of ineligible players during the campaign. However, the appeal was dismissed, ending any hopes of a late reprieve.

Speaking during a virtual roundtable session organised by SuperSport, the former England captain told The PUNCH that a nation with Nigeria’s football pedigree and talent deserved to be at the World Cup and would be greatly missed at the tournament.

Nigeria will be a big miss. This is a World Cup for participants who haven’t had the opportunity to play in the tournament. I would have loved to see a top team like Nigeria there because they’ve got some great individuals. They’re a great nation. So, yeah, they fall under that category for me.

“I think they are a big miss because Nigeria probably would have gone further in the competition, but unfortunately, one side’s loss is another’s gain.

“I know Mikel Obi is very upset that they’re not there. It means he can’t do more commentating on the World Cup. That’s why he was upset.”

The 2026 World Cup officially begins with co-hosts Mexico.

The historic clash, set to take place at the iconic Estadio Azteca, rekindles memories of the opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which ended 1-1. South Africa took the lead through Siphiwe Tshabalala’s stunning strike before Rafael Márquez salvaged a draw for Mexico with a 79th-minute equaliser.

City Crime

Nigeria Acquires 100 Warships, Boats In 70 Years – Navy Chief

Published

1 month ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

The Nigerian Navy says it has acquired more than 100 warships and boats since its establishment 70 years ago.

Rear Adm. Ebiobowei Zipele, Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Training Command off (NAVTRAC), disclosed this during an interdenominational church service to mark the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary in Onne, Rivers.

Zipele described the anniversary as significant, noting that the navy had demonstrated resilience, dedication and commitment to its constitutional responsibilities since its inception.

He said the navy, established in 1956, had grown into an elite fighting force that had effectively protected Nigeria’s territorial waters from both domestic and foreign threats.

According to him, the Nigerian navy started in 1956 with 11 ships bequeathed by the (British) Royal Navy, but today we have over 100 ships and boats in our fleet.

He added that in spite of the successes recorded over the years, the navy was still acquiring more platforms, including warships, helicopters and drones, to further strengthen maritime security.

The naval boss revealed that the navy had successfully curtailed piracy in Nigeria’s waters and the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) for more than three years.

“The achievement has restored investor’s confidence and improved commercial activities within the maritime sector”, he said.

Zipele noted that the navy had performed creditably with available resources in protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and maritime interests.

He said the establishment of an air arm unit had further strengthened operations aimed at securing the nation and the GoG.

According to him, although the navy has recorded notable successes, it can not secure Nigeria’s vast territorial waters alone.

He explained that the size of the nation’s maritime domain necessitated collaboration with relevant stakeholders to enhance security operations.

“The government adopted a ‘whole-of-society’ approach because the Nigerian navy cannot be everywhere at the same time”, he said.

Zipele listed the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), and Tantita Security Services among agencies supporting maritime security efforts.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the navy with improved operational resources and equipment, and lauded the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, for boosting morale within the service.

The naval boss advised prospective recruits willing to join the navy to understand that military service required sacrifice and patriotism.

“There is no greater sacrifice than laying down our lives for our country”, he said.

He added that the Armed Forces remained actively engaged in operations against banditry, terrorism, oil theft and illegal bunkering across the country.

Theresa Frederick & Charity Amiso

City Crime

‘The Scholar of Evidence, Integrity and Community Leadership’

Published

2 months ago

May 13, 2026

The Tide

In legal philosophy, silence is often romanticized as wisdom. But within the law of evidence, silence may carry a very different implication — it can amount to an admission. This thought-provoking paradox forms part of the intellectual reflections of Professor Chris C. Wigwe, SAN, an accomplished legal scholar whose contributions to legal education and jurisprudence continue to shape conversations within Nigeria’s academic and professional legal circles.

Professor Christian Chizindu Wigwe stands among the distinguished figures produced by Nigeria’s legal academy. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria and seasoned scholar, he built a reputation for intellectual rigor, disciplined scholarship, and principled leadership in the study and teaching of law.

His academic journey reflects the making of a global legal mind. Wigwe obtained his Bachelor of Laws degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, before proceeding to the Nigerian Law School where he qualified for the Nigerian Bar. His quest for deeper scholarly engagement later took him to the United Kingdom, where he earned a Master of Laws degree from Middlesex University and subsequently a PhD in Public International and Economic Law from the University of Leeds.

These academic attainments did not merely decorate his curriculum vitae; they laid the intellectual foundation for a career that has consistently bridged theory and practice within the legal profession.

Over the years, Professor Wigwe has distinguished himself in the fields of jurisprudence, international law, criminal law and the law of evidence. His scholarship reflects a deep interest in how legal systems respond to economic realities, international cooperation and evolving global norms.

Within Nigeria’s university system, his name became closely associated with the Faculty of Law at Rivers State University in Port Harcourt, where he served as Dean from 2022 until November 2025. His tenure coincided with renewed conversations about strengthening legal education and positioning the faculty for global competitiveness.

Under his watch, the faculty intensified efforts to deepen research culture, strengthen postgraduate training and pursue partnerships capable of elevating the institution’s standing among law faculties in Africa.

Professor Wigwe also consistently emphasized the importance of institutional collaboration and alumni support in sustaining academic excellence. In public engagements, he urged graduates and stakeholders to support universities in building research centres and scholarship opportunities for students.

That perspective reflects his broader understanding that legal education must go beyond classroom instruction. For Wigwe, the development of law faculties must be anchored on strong research infrastructure, vibrant intellectual discourse and international engagement.

Beyond administrative leadership, he has remained an active contributor to legal scholarship through books and research publications. His works cover diverse aspects of legal theory, international institutions and corporate law practice.

Among his notable publications are texts such as Legal Research Methodology and Practice, Introduction to Company Law and Practice, and scholarly works exploring the economic dimensions of international institutions and monetary law.

These contributions have become reference materials for students and scholars seeking a deeper understanding of legal research and the dynamics of international economic law.

What distinguishes Wigwe’s scholarship is his ability to situate legal principles within the realities of global economic systems. His writings frequently interrogate how international institutions exercise power and how developing economies can navigate complex legal frameworks within global trade and finance.

Such perspectives have increasingly become relevant in a world where international law influences domestic economic policy, cross-border transactions and global governance.

Within the classroom, colleagues and students often describe him as a meticulous teacher who believes that legal reasoning must be sharpened through intellectual discipline and ethical responsibility.

His academic philosophy emphasizes the importance of integrity in the legal profession. For him, legal education must produce not only technically competent lawyers but individuals whose character can withstand the ethical demands of justice.

This emphasis on integrity resonates strongly within the Nigerian legal system, where the credibility of institutions often rests on the moral courage of those entrusted with authority.

Indeed, Wigwe’s professional life reflects the principle that law is not merely a technical craft but a moral enterprise aimed at preserving fairness and order in society.

His elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria further affirmed his standing within the legal profession. The SAN rank, often regarded as the pinnacle of legal practice in the country, is reserved for practitioners and scholars whose careers demonstrate excellence and integrity.

Yet, beyond titles and accolades, his legacy lies in the countless students he has mentored over decades of teaching.

Across courtrooms, law firms, government institutions and international organizations, former students continue to carry forward the intellectual and ethical lessons instilled during their time under his tutelage.

Mentorship remains one of the most enduring contributions of any academic. Through it, knowledge is transmitted across generations, shaping the legal culture of a society.

Professor Wigwe has consistently viewed mentorship as a responsibility rather than a privilege. For him, the success of students represents the true measure of a teacher’s impact.

His leadership style within academia reflects calm authority rather than flamboyance. Colleagues often describe him as a scholar who prefers substance over spectacle, focusing on institutional growth rather than personal acclaim.

This disposition aligns with his belief that universities must remain centres of reason, inquiry and ethical reflection.

Beyond the walls of academia, Professor Wigwe’s influence extends meaningfully into community life. His dedication to secular and communal activities has earned him admiration within his hometown of Isiokpo.

Recognizing his contributions to community development, leadership and social cohesion, the people of Isiokpo honoured him with a traditional chieftaincy title — a cultural recognition reserved for individuals whose lives exemplify service and integrity.

The honour reflects the deep respect he commands not only as a scholar but as a community figure committed to the welfare and progress of his people.

Traditional institutions in many African societies remain important custodians of culture, identity and moral leadership. When communities confer chieftaincy titles, they are often acknowledging a life lived in service to collective advancement.

For Professor Wigwe, this recognition underscores a broader philosophy that scholarship should not exist in isolation from society.

Rather, knowledge must translate into service — guiding communities, strengthening institutions and inspiring future generations.

The influence of scholars like Wigwe becomes even more significant in societies navigating complex governance challenges. Legal scholars provide the intellectual frameworks through which institutions interpret constitutions, enforce rights and resolve disputes.

In this regard, the Nigerian legal system continues to benefit from the contributions of academics who combine scholarship with practical insight.

Figures such as Professor Wigwe represent a bridge between legal theory and real-world governance.

Such individuals are invaluable to both national and international institutions that require legal minds capable of navigating complex regulatory and diplomatic environments.

The global legal community increasingly recognizes that expertise in international economic law, institutional governance and evidence law is essential for addressing contemporary challenges.

From trade negotiations to international arbitration and human rights enforcement, the need for scholars with strong analytical foundations has never been greater.

Nigeria, like many developing nations, possesses a reservoir of intellectual talent within its universities. However, such expertise is often underutilized in global governance spaces.

Scholars with the depth of experience and credibility of Professor Wigwe deserve broader platforms where their insights can contribute to shaping international legal discourse.

Positions within multilateral organizations, international arbitration panels, global academic networks and legal reform commissions could greatly benefit from the perspectives of scholars who understand both local realities and global legal frameworks.

The strength of any legal system ultimately depends on the integrity and intellectual courage of those entrusted with responsibility.

When individuals who embody these virtues are elevated to positions of trust, institutions become stronger and public confidence grows.

Professor Chris C. Wigwe’s career illustrates the enduring relevance of scholarship grounded in integrity, intellectual discipline, community service and responsible leadership.

In a time when public institutions require credible voices capable of guiding policy with wisdom and ethical clarity, figures of his calibre stand out as valuable assets not only to Nigeria but to the wider international community.

Ultimately, the story of Professor Wigwe is not merely about academic achievements or professional titles. It is about the quiet but powerful influence of a scholar committed to the ideals of justice, knowledge, community service and ethical leadership.

And in the long arc of legal history, it is often such scholars — patient builders of institutions, mentors of generations, and respected sons of their communities who leave the most enduring imprint on the pursuit of justice.

King Onunwor