Rivers

Former Guber Candidates Hail LG Polls …Congratulate Winners

Published

1 year ago

October 9, 2024

The Forum of Ex-Governorship Candidates in Rivers State from 2011-2023 has scored the just-concluded Local council elections in Rivers State.
Chairman of the forum, Prof. O. T. Gillis Harry; Secretary, Hon. Chinesum David Godwin; and Publicity Secretary, Hon Deekae Richards, in a statement on Saturday said the election has demonstrated that it is possible to conduct elections across much of the country without relying on Nigerian security agencies.
“It highlights the notion that these agencies may be a significant barrier to achieving transparent, free, fair, and credible elections. Moving forward, the Civil Defence Force should be utilised for all our elections nationwide to ensure integrity and public confidence in the electoral process”, they stated.
The forum also described the elections as the most peaceful ever conducted in the State’s history.
In their words, “it is clear that love and integrity can guide our electoral processes, demonstrating that the fear of God can lead to a harmonious outcome. As the scripture says, ‘When the righteous rule, the people rejoice’, and today, we have witnessed that truth in action’.
They also observed that the absence of police during the election did not hinder the process, but rather highlighted the remarkable organization and coordination of the event.
Commending Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for their near perfect logistics, the forum noted that the early arrival of electoral materials across all three Senatorial Districts, covering all 23 local government areas was commendable.
They emphasised the need for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to sustain this positive momentum.
”The election has proven that good can indeed triumph over evil, and the collective effort of the people of Rivers State has been instrumental in achieving this peaceful outcome.
“Let us celebrate this milestone and continue to foster a spirit of unity and progress in our great state. God bless Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and God bless the good people of Rivers State”, the forum further said.
Congratulating the winners of the election, the Forum described the victories as a testament to the trust and confidence reposed in them by Rivers people.
“We urge you to hit the ground running, consolidate the good efforts of the Governor, and replicate his exemplary leadership in your respective Local Government Areas”, they charged the winners.
They urged the new leadership at the local government levels to improve the lives of the grassroots, and make a positive difference.
They also commended the Governor for what they called his “visionary leadership”.

Kevin Nengi

Rivers

Fubara Restates Continued Support For NYSC In Rivers

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in the state.

He gave the assurance during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2026 Batch A Stream I corps members on Friday at the Permanent Orientation Camp, Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area of the state.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, the Governor emphasised that no nation could develop or attain greatness without harnessing the potential of its youths, who are the leaders of tomorrow.

He assured the corps members that the ongoing renovation and upgrade of facilities at the camp would soon be completed.

The State Governor also stated that new infrastructure would be constructed to accommodate the increasing number of corps members deployed to the state.

The NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Moses Oleghe, thanked the Governor for constructing a 1,000-capacity hostel accommodation for both male and female corps members at the camp.

Oleghe announced that a total of 2,638 corps members, comprising 1,007 males and 1,631 females, had completed their registration, while more than 300 corps members were yet to register.

The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Chibuzor Amadi, who was represented by another judge, Justice Chika Mini.

Theresa Frederick & Charity Amiso

Rivers

Health Comm Charges Youth To Take Advantage Of Innovation Hub

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, has called on adolescents and young people in the state to take full advantage of the newly established Adolescents and Young People Innovation Hub Centre, urging them to prioritize the acquisition of entrepreneurial and life skills that will empower them economically and support informed life choices.

Dr. Oreh made the call while commissioning the Innovation Hub Centre located at Fimie-Ama Community in Port Harcourt Local Government Area (PHALGA).

She disclosed that the Hub, which features ICT and robotics rooms, app development and media studios, beauty and vocational training spaces, wellness and counselling services, and a food technology unit, reflects a deep understanding of the diverse needs of adolescents and young people in society.

While applauding the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), in partnership with Project HOPE, for initiating the laudable programme, the Commissioner noted that the Rivers State Government recognizes youth empowerment through skills acquisition, confidence building, and access to opportunities as a cornerstone of sustainable development, social stability, and economic growth.

She further assured of the continuous support of the Rivers State Government in creating an enabling environment for programmes that empower young people, promote innovation, reduce vulnerability, and contribute to overall socio-economic transformation.

Speaking earlier, the Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria, Dr. Charles Olalekan Mensah, said the establishment of the Innovation Hub Centre is aimed at empowering young people with relevant skills and providing opportunities for long-term growth.

He added that the successful realization of the Hub is the result of strong leadership, strategic partnerships, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

In her goodwill message, the Country Director of the CDC, Nigeria, Dr. Meghna Desai, represented virtually by the Deputy Director, Programmes, Dr. Jerry Gwamna, described the Hub as a safe space for the holistic development of adolescents and young people.

She noted that the initiative will equip beneficiaries with critical entrepreneurial, technical, and life skills that reduce vulnerability and promote economic independence, including for young people living with HIV/AIDS.

Rivers

Andoni Chair Assures Safety After Cult-Related Attacks In Oyokotoro

Published

3 days ago

January 28, 2026

The Tide

The Chairman of Andoni Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Lucky Promise-Otuo, has assured residents of Oyokotoro fishing settlement of their safety following recent cult-related attacks and threats to peace in the area.

In a statement he personally signed, Hon. Promise-Otuo disclosed that proactive measures have been put in place to prevent a breakdown of law and order. These include the deployment of security personnel to Oyokotoro and surrounding communities.

The Council Chairman stated that his administration is working closely with the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to address the situation and prevent future occurrences.

He strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as unacceptable and a serious threat to the peace, safety, and the livelihoods of residents.

Hon. Promise-Otuo warned those responsible for the attacks to desist immediately, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the LGA, assuring residents, visitors, and business operators of their safety.