Nation

Ikwerre Leaders Eulogise President General …As Who Is Who in Ikwerre Is Unveiled In PH

Published

5 months ago

December 22, 2025

Prominent personalities from the Ikwerre ethnic nationality have showered encomiums on the President General of the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide, Eze (Barrister) Godspower Onuekwa, following the successful unveiling of his book titled Who Is Who in Ikwerre (Iwhuruohna Nation).

Leading the tributes, former Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Peter Agumagu (rtd), described the publication as a landmark achievement for the Ikwerre people.

Speaking as chairman of the unveiling and launch ceremony held at Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, Justice Agumagu said the book represents a historic contribution that will serve as an enduring reference for present and future generations.

According to him, the Ikwerre ethnic nationality is deeply grateful to Eze Onuekwa for ensuring that a comprehensive record of the people has been documented.

He urged Ikwerre sons and daughters, as well as other Nigerians, to purchase copies of the book and share them with friends and associates.

Justice Agumagu expressed confidence that the book is an authentic portrayal of Ikwerre history, noting that the ethnic group has faced threats from overambitious neighbours seeking to annex its identity and territory.

He stressed that the publication would help safeguard the true history of the Ikwerre people.

“We are Ikwerre. We are the ones to tell who we are, not others. The Ikwerre people are strong and resilient, and nobody will be able to subdue us,” he declared.

Also speaking, former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Sir Owene Wonodi, commended the author for the time, energy, resources and dedication invested in producing the book.

He described the work as a compendium worthy of celebration, noting that it captures the essence and contributions of the Ikwerre people.

Sir Wonodi said he was delighted to attend the unveiling ceremony, which brought together scholars, leaders and stakeholders to discuss Ikwerre culture and heritage. He observed that the book has bridged a potential communication gap in an increasingly globalised world.

He warned that without deliberate efforts to document history, future generations could lose access to vital cultural knowledge when current leaders and elders are no longer around.

He, therefore, urged continued documentation of Ikwerre history, particularly in the face of claims of ownership by other ethnic groups over Port Harcourt and Ikwerre land.

Reviewing the book, Prof Eric Amadi of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education described it as a special compendium that highlights individuals who have made, and continue to make, significant contributions to the development of Ikwerre land.

He said the book compares favourably with existing literature on Ikwerre history and deserves commendation.

Another reviewer, Prof C. D. Chukwu, also praised the author, describing Who Is Who in Ikwerre (Iwhuruohna Nation) as a well-researched and valuable publication.

In his response, Eze (Barrister) Godspower Onuekwa expressed gratitude to all who attended the ceremony and to those who supported the project in various ways.

He said the book was inspired by his deep love for the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation and his desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of Ikwerre land.

According to him, the publication is the product of extensive discussions, interactions and research, and expressed hope that other Ikwerre scholars and professors would build on the foundation laid by the book and further document the history and achievements of the people in the coming years.

Dignitaries at the event included Justice Peter Agumagu (rtd); Sir Owene Wonodi; former Secretary to the State Government, Chief Sampson Agbaru; former President General of Ogbakor Ikwerre Worldwide, Prof. Otonti Nduka; Prof. Emenike Wami; Chief Alex Amadi Wochi; Prof. Samuel Chisa Dike; Senator Andrew Uchendu; Comrade Levi Atuzie; Prof. Aaron Ojule; Prof. Michael Emeji; and several others.

[12/21, 7:53?AM] Mr. Done Tide: Rivers Microcredit Loan Beneficiaries Laud Gov. Fubara, RIMA Boss for Transparent Scheme

Beneficiaries of the Rivers State Microcredit Loan Scheme have expressed deep appreciation to the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the management of the Rivers State Microfinance Agency (RIMA) for what they described as a rare, transparent and impactful government intervention.

Speaking in separate interviews, several beneficiaries commended the governor and the RIMA leadership, led by Pastor Jonathan Tobin, for the seamless and inclusive implementation of the scheme, which they say has significantly improved their businesses and livelihoods.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Adanma Wilnifred Echefu, said the programme exceeded her expectations, describing Pastor Tobin as an extraordinary administrator who has demonstrated sincerity, transparency and trustworthiness in coordinating the scheme.

“I was honestly sceptical when I first heard about it. It felt like the usual government promise, but I decided to try. To my surprise, barely three weeks after submitting my application — without knowing anyone in government — my account was credited,” she said.

According to her, the loan has greatly improved her business, adding that the interest rate is extremely low. “This is the first of its kind for Rivers people. Governor Fubara is truly God-sent. This programme has restored my confidence in governance and leadership,” she added.

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Boma Florence, also praised the process, describing it as stress-free and genuine. “This is not a gimmick. It is real. Since I was born, this is the first time I am receiving a credit facility without having any connection in government,” she said.

She explained that the loan enabled her to expand her business and employ more people. “This is what governance should be — thinking about the poor and those without connections. I am a living testimony,” she noted.

Mr. Barry Peter, who disclosed that he received over ?3 million through the scheme, described the intervention as more than just support. “Our people often doubt government promises, but this administration has proven otherwise. I applied, trusted the process, and today I have received millions to grow my business,” he said, adding that Rivers people are rejoicing across political divides.

Similarly, Mrs. Gladys Agala from Abua/Odual Local Government Area said she received over ?1 million to support her farming business. “It didn’t take up to one month before my account was credited. This is truly a government of the people, by the people and for the people,” she stated.

She commended RIMA officials for their fairness, noting that applicants are assessed based on basic requirements such as business verification, rather than personal connections. “This is like an American wonder happening in Rivers State,” she remarked.

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Amadi Previous from Obio/Akpor, said the loan has positively impacted her clothing and POS business. She also confirmed her commitment to repaying the loan promptly to enable others benefit. “This government has a clear vision for everyone, not just a few,” she said.

Investigations revealed that many beneficiaries have already begun complying with the loan repayment terms to ensure the sustainability of the programme.

Recall that the Rivers State Government recently earmarked over ?4 billion for micro, small and medium-scale business owners across the state as part of efforts to stimulate economic growth, support entrepreneurship and alleviate poverty.

Nation

RSU, Otonti Nduka Foundation Holds Centenary Conference, Unveil Book on Values in Nigeria

Published

4 days ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State University and the Otonti Nduka Foundation for Values Education jointly hosted a two-day National Conference on 8 and 9 May 2026 to examine the state of values in Nigeria.

The two days conference held at Rivers State University convocation arena brought together academics, policymakers, legal experts and education leaders under the theme _“Trends and Challenges in Upholding Values in Nigeria.”_

The gathering focused on policy gaps, curriculum reform, and the role of ethics in public service and education.

The event opened on Friday with remarks from Vice Chancellor Prof. Chief Isaac Zeb-Obipi, who stressed the need to address declining moral and civic values across Nigeria’s education and public sectors. A book of abstracts for the plenary sessions was also presented to participants.

Key speakers included former Attorney General Chief Dr Kanu Agabi, SAN; NERDC Executive Secretary Prof. Shehu Salisu; Prof. Hauwa Imam, FNAE, of the University of Abuja; former Rivers SUBEB Chairman Ven Dr Fyneface Akah, ; former NIMASA DG Dr Hon. Dakuku Adol-Peterside; and RSU Director of ICT Prof. Sunny Orike.

Discussions centered on integrating values education into schools, tertiary institutions and public institutions, alongside the impact of technology on moral development among young Nigerians. Panel and plenary sessions produced practical recommendations for curriculum and policy reform.

On Saturday, the foundation marked its centenary with the unveiling of the book _Otonti Nduka in History_, launched by Chief Engr. Grant Offor, FNSE. The Nigerian Academy of Education held a ceremonial procession led by its President Prof. Olu Jegede and the Ikwerre Professors Forum.

In a communiqué, participants called for stronger collaboration between government, civil society and academia to mainstream values education nationwide. They recommended reviewing teacher training curricula and expanding digital platforms to promote ethical civic engagement, with the foundation pledging to share the outcomes with education authorities for implementation.

Dignitaries present included Ogbakor Ikwerre Worldwide as Chief Host, Prof. Emeritus Chief T. Uzodimma Nwala, the Ikenga 1 of Mbaise and first philosophy student of Prof. Otonti Nduka, alongside scholars and community leaders.

Amadi Akujobi

Nation

Shell, MAN Back Rivers’ Drive for Expanded Gas Supply to Industries

Published

5 days ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

The Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, in partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, has reaffirmed support for efforts to expand gas distribution infrastructure in Rivers State as part of initiatives aimed at improving access to affordable, cleaner and more reliable energy for industries across the South-South region.

The commitment was highlighted during the SNG–MAN Business Forum held in Port Harcourt, where stakeholders from the industrial and public sectors examined the role of natural gas in driving industrialisation, boosting local production and strengthening energy security.

Speaking at the forum on behalf of the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, the company’s Head of Gas Distribution, Mr. Chukwuka Amos Ejesi, described natural gas as a critical component of Nigeria’s energy mix and a key driver of sustainable industrial growth.

According to him, Nigeria’s gas development agenda has reached a stage where policy direction must be matched with practical implementation capable of addressing the energy challenges confronting manufacturers.

He noted that pipeline gas offers industries a cleaner, more dependable and cost-effective energy alternative capable of supporting uninterrupted operations, reducing emissions and improving production efficiency.

“Gas is the backbone of manufacturing, and we are encouraged by the growing recognition among stakeholders of the need for cleaner and more reliable energy solutions,” he said.

Ejesi stressed the need for sustained collaboration among energy providers, government institutions and industrial stakeholders to maximise the country’s gas resources for economic development.

He added that improved gas infrastructure would strengthen manufacturing value chains, enhance productivity and promote more competitive industrial operations across Rivers State and the wider South-South region.

Participants at the forum also emphasised the importance of expanding energy infrastructure as a pathway to unlocking industrial capacity, reducing operating costs and promoting sustainable industrial development.

Representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Director-General of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency, Dr. Chamberlain Peterside, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to partnering with private sector investors to revitalise industrial activities in the state.

He identified key projects targeted under the initiative to include the revival of the Ahoada Industrial Park, the New Port City project and the proposed Bonny Industrial Park, all aimed at stimulating economic growth and expanding industrial opportunities along the Bonny corridor.

According to the governor, the long-term vision is to position Rivers State as a leading manufacturing hub in Southern Nigeria through strategic public-private partnerships.

Governor Fubara also commended Shell Nigeria Gas and MAN for sustaining engagements geared towards improving industrial energy access, noting that gas infrastructure development remains central to the state’s economic recovery plans.

He further observed that the gas sector presents enormous opportunities for economic growth, especially as global energy systems continue to shift towards cleaner energy sources.

The governor called on stakeholders to work collectively towards developing a practical and sustainable gas framework capable of supporting the state’s industrial and energy development objectives.

Chairman of MAN, Rivers and Bayelsa Branch, Elder Vincent Okuku, described gas as indispensable to industrial operations, noting that many manufacturers continue to struggle with the high cost of alternative energy sources.

Similarly, President of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Dr. Chinyere Ngozi Nwoga, said the transition to natural gas had become increasingly necessary for businesses seeking stable and cost-efficient operations.

“Pipeline natural gas provides a more cost-effective and reliable source of energy for industries,” she stated.

Also speaking, former Chairman of MAN in Rivers and Bayelsa States, Mrs. Emilia Akpan, stressed the need to align energy infrastructure development with investment in human capacity.

She maintained that rebuilding the state’s economy would require not only reliable energy supply but also the development of technical skills needed to support long-term industrial growth.

By Kevin Nengia

Nation

City Boy Movement Hails Onyesoh’s APC Primary Win

Published

5 days ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

The City Boy Movement in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers state has commended Senator Allwell Onyesoh on his victory in the APC primary election for Rivers East Senatorial District.

Chairman of the group in Etche, Dr. Fortune Uchenna Obi, spoke to journalists in Okehi Ward after participating in Monday’s direct primary. He described Onyesoh’s emergence as the party’s candidate for the 2027 senatorial election as a reflection of the people’s will.

Dr. Obi said the senator has performed well during his first term and deserves re-election. He also thanked FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, leader of the Renewed Hope Agenda and Rainbow Coalition in Rivers State, for supporting Onyesoh’s candidacy. According to him, Wike’s backing was instrumental to the senator’s nomination, clearance, and victory at the primary.

He further praised voters in Etche and across Rivers East for turning out in large numbers at ward centers and urged them to sustain the support to ensure Onyesoh’s success in the January 2027 general election.