Nation
‘Education, Powerful Tool For Equipping Visionary Leaders’
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army (NA) and Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South South, Operation Deltasafe, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah has emphasised that education remains a powerful tool for equipping visionary leaders, and must be looked at critically.
He made this known, while declaring open the maiden edition of the Chairperson, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 6 Division Chapter Inter – Command Secondary Schools Quiz, Debate and Essay Writing Competition, at Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya Badminton Court, Port Harcourt Barracks.
He reiterated that the theme for the competition, “Empowering Future Leaders Through Knowledge and Critical Thinking” was carefully selected, aimed at instilling the values of discipline, research and constructive argument skills that would equip the students for their future endeavours, giving the present reality of a fast-changing world, which demands the ability to think critically, analyse information and communicate effectively.
The GOC commended the efforts of the NAOWA, 6 Division Chapter under the leadership of Mrs Manfon Ejim Emekah for keying into the vision of the President, NAOWA, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, among which is to promote academic excellence across Army Barracks nationwide.
He added that such programmes will go a long way in inspiring excellence among younger generations.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson, NAOWA, 6 Division Chapter, Mrs Manfon Ejim Emekah thanked the organisers and further said the theme of the competition was a reminder of the critical role education plays in shaping future generations.
She further stated that the contemporary world is not only about acquiring knowledge, but also about the application of the knowledge acquired.
Thus, critical thinking and solving real-world problems is the benefit of such competition, which she maintained provides unique opportunities for the students to develop the requisite skills, that will prepare them adequately for future endeavours.
She commended the GOC for his unwavering support towards educational development in Command schools, adding that his leadership has been instrumental in creating the enabling environment for academic excellence to thrive in the Division.
She encouraged the competitors to embrace the challenge with confidence, determination, and most importantly spirit of healthy competition.
Earlier, the Acting Director, 6 Division Education Services, Lt Col Prince Agbai, while delivering his welcome address, stressed that the theme of the competition underscored the crucial role education plays in shaping future leaders, particularly in a rapidly evolving world, where knowledge is not just enough but the ability to reason, analyse , communicate and relay information effectively remains critical.
The competition he said, has created a platform for the students to develop their skills, nurture teamwork, intellectual excellence and leadership qualities. He called on the contestants to approach the event with enthusiasm, sportsmanship and a determination to excel.
The event had goodwill messages delivered by dignitaries. The Chairperson, OB Lulu-Briggs Foundation, Dr (Mrs) Seinye Lulu-Briggs, who was represented commended the initiative and said it was a welcome development. She added that the role of education in shaping responsible citizens and future leaders cannot be overemphasised, restating the commitment of her Foundation in supporting learning.
This she maintained, is the only way to honour the selfless sacrifices of our fallen heroes, whose wards are in various Barracks under 6 Division. She urged the contestants to seize the opportunity to learn and compete, stressing that winning is important but the real victory lies in the knowledge gained.
She declared scholarship awards to each member of the three winning teams to further their education in any Nigerian public university of their choice.Relatedly, President, Victor Tulutu Briggs Foundation, Hon. (Dr) Victor Briggs, while supporting the initiative, donated the sum of Three Million (3,000,000.00) Naira at the event.
He had also undertaken to partner with NAOWA in providing some scholarships to the students that are doing perfectly well in the different schools. Similarly, Honorable Sokari Goodboy Sokari who was represented by Mr Warmann Onisokumen Easter felicitated with the organisers and the contestants.
He said as a leader, he believes that education is the bedrock of the society, as such he encouraged the students to embrace the opportunity in showcasing their talents and learn from each other.
The quiz, debate and essay writing competition which was organised in honour of the Chairperson, NAOWA, 6 Division Chapter, had four Command Secondary Schools under 6 Division, participating.
They include, Command Science Secondary School, Eta-Etinan, Akwa Ibom State, Command Science Secondary School, Ebedebiri, Bayelsa State, Command Secondary School, Mbiri, Delta State and Command Science Secondary School, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
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.”
