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16 years ago

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Adamawa

The Federal Government says that it has evolved a comprehensive inland basin oil exploration framework to enhance the national oil and gas reserve.

The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Allison-Madueke, said this at the 11th combined convocation of the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi in Adamawa.

Allison-Madueke, who was represented by the Zonal Manager of NNPC, Kaduna, Alhaji Salihu Sambo, said the framework was designed to intensify oil exploration not just in Chad basin.

She explained that the framework covered other basins such as Sokoto, Bida, Yola, Gongola, Anambra, Benue trough and Dahomey.

The minister, who was conferred with a fellowship award of the polytechnic, reiterated the government’s commitments toward increasing the nation’s oil and gas reserves.

“Already our neighboring countries that have similar geological setting like Chad, Niger and Cameroun have recently discovered oil in commercial quantity.

 

Bauchi

Hajiya Biodun Yuguda, wife of the Bauchi State Governor, has charged religious leaders to instill good values in youths for a brighter future.

Yuguda stated this at the convention of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), with theme “Building the New Bauchi State”.

She said that to ensure a virile society and a bright future, religious leaders should teach the youths good moral values as contained in the holy books so that they would grow with the fear of God.

The governor’s wife commended the organisers of the convention and urged the participants to contribute their quota in building a new Bauchi State.

 

Borno

The Borno State Judiciary is planning to hold market day meetings in villages across the state, the Chief Judge, Alhaji Kashim Zannah, has said.

Zannah told newsmen in Maiduguri on Sunday that the meetings were part of a renewed effort to sensitise rural communities on the need to engage the services of the judiciary.

“We plan to hold market day meetings with the villagers as part of our enlightenment campaign on how individuals can access our services easily,” he said.

The chief judge added that the move was part of the justice sector reform initiated in 2008, aimed at enhancing access to justice.

The reform action plan was aimed at enhancing access to justice, as well as timely and quality justice delivery, he added.

 

Ekiti

The Ekiti State Government has paid the two months salary arrears owed its workers in the local government service, Chief Femi Akinyemi, the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), has said.

Akinyemi told newsmen in Ado Ekiti on Sunday that workers in the 16 local government areas were owed April and May salaries “due to dwindling allocation from the federation account”.

He, however, explained that the two months salary had now been paid into the workers individual accounts, adding that “we do not owe any local government staff salary as at today”.

The chairman attributed the delay in the payment to the drop in the monthly allocation from the federation account “and the current global economic melt down.

 

FCT

The FCT administration has promised to compensate more than 6,000 persons whose land title were revoked on grounds of overriding public interest by the government.

Sen. Bala Mohammed, the FCT Minister, disclosed this during the presentation of the report of the Ministerial Committee on Repositioning Land Administration in the territory.

He said allottees who lost their land titles as a result of the government’s action were awaiting alternative allocation.

He explained that “in order to address this problem, I will dedicate appreciable percentage of all land allocation during my tenure to providing alternative plots to this category of victims”.

He said the administration would establish FCT Civil Service Commission to correct the abnormalities in personnel management and to check indiscipline among the staff.

The Federal Government has ordered the release of N15 billion for the construction of a 200 megawatts power plant in Kaduna State.

The Vice President, Namadi Sambo, made the disclosure in Zaria at a reception organised in his honour by the Zazzau Emirate Council on Saturday.

He said that President Goodluck Jonathan gave the order as part of efforts to improve electricity supply in the country.

He stated that already a letter of credit had been issued to the manufacturer of the equipment meant for the project.

“Very soon the project site will be handed over to the contractors,” he said.

 

Kano

 Commercial motorcyclists in Kano metropolis now harass motorists, making driving a nightmare in the commercial town, The Tide’s source’s check has shown.

The survey found that many of the cyclists, popularly known as “achaba,” often abuse motorists at the slightest encounter.

The source also found that the motorcyclists usually rode recklessly and often hit other vehicles passing by, smashing their bumpers or side mirrors.

A car owner in the city, Alhaji Na’Allah Abubakar, told the source  that he was apprehensive about driving in the city because of the attitude of the motorcyclists on the road.

“Driving has become a nightmare for me because of the irresponsible traffic conduct of the achaba boys.

 

Kwara

Governor Bukola Saraki of Kwara has vowed not to sign the Pension Bill passed by the state house of assembly until some controversial areas are resolved.

Speaking on Saturday during a media chat, the governor said that the executive would soon return the bill to the assembly with a view to amending some of the controversial areas.

“There are many controversial issues in it and I will not sign the bill because I am sending it back to the house for them to take a look at some of the issues therein.

“I know that about eight states are now operating similar pension schemes but some things must be amended,” he said.

The governor explained that he was more concerned with the resources of the state and the ability to implement the bill, saying that “definitely the bill will return to the house for a second look and to see what they can shave-off from the bill”.

Lagos

Some aviation professionals have advised airline operators to adopt manpower development as a means of solving the dearth of professionals in the industry.

The professionals were reacting to the approval given by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to Aeroconsult Training Organisation (ATO) to undertake training of professionals in the industry

In an interactive session with aviation correspondents in Lagos, the professionals decried the trend whereby airline operators, rather than train personnel, poach from each other to fill existing vacancy.

Mr Ayo Obadofin, the Managing Director of Aeroconsult said instead of the operators training their personnel to handle equipment, most of them rather seek for experienced hands to employ.

 

Nasarawa

Dr Peter Agu of the Nasarawa State Ministry of Science and Technology, has urged the Federal Government to enact a law that would make technical and vocational education functional.

Agu gave the advice while delivering a paper at the 3rd Academic staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) Conference at the Nasarawa State Polytechnic, Lafia on Saturday.

He said the low esteem of technical and vocational education had reduced enrolment into the polytechnics.

He stressed the need for intensified advocacy to improve the image and acceptance of vocational education in the country.

 

Niger

Sheikh Mohammed Yahaya, the Director of Propagation of Izala Islamic Movement, has called for an increase in the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) of Muslim pilgrims during Hajj to ease their hardships.

Yahaya told newsmen in Minna on Sunday that the current minimum BTA of 500 dollars was grossly inadequate to cater for the needs of a pilgrim during Hajj.

He said that Nigerian pilgrims spent more than one month in the holy land during Hajj, resulting in the complete exhaustion of the allowance.

He added that “pilgrims who found themselves in such a situation were forced to beg to feed themselves or sell their personal belongings at give away prices just to feed before their return to the country.

 

Ogun

Former President Olusegun Obsanjo has advocated the use of green economy to mitigate the adverse impact of climate change in Africa.

Receiving participants in a climate change workshop in his Abeokuta residence, Obasanjo said: “Green economy is the vogue now; people are talking and doing something about it. We in Africa should go beyond talking about it and do someting about it.”

The Tide’s source reports that the workshop, which was for parliamentary support staff of the national and states assemblies, was organised by Africa Leadership Forum, Ota, Ogun, to enhance their capacity to perform their legislative and oversight functions.

Obasanjo told the participants that there were sufficient evidence to prove that climate change was real in Africa.

“One of the proof I know is that our own Lake Chad will no longer be in existence with water in it in the next 50 years, and the lake provides the means of livelihood for more than 1.5 million people in Nigeria, Chad, Cameroun and Niger,” he noted.

 

Yobe

Alhaji Muhammad Ahmadu, Yobe Resident Electoral Commissioner, said that less than 700 new voters in the state have registered in the continuous voter registration exercise in the last two years.

Ahmadu disclosed this on Saturday at a meeting organised by INEC for election stakeholders in Damaturu.

He said the exercise had been on since 2008 for those who did not attain voting age as at the last general elections.

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Nation

Group Advocates Indigenous Language Sustainability, Calls for Policy Action

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2 days ago

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January 23, 2026

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A pan-Nigeria organisation committed to the promotion and preservation of indigenous languages, Indigenous Language and Culture Promoters (ILCP), has called for the deliberate development and compulsory teaching of indigenous languages in both primary and secondary schools across the country.

The group made the call during its maiden Congress held in Bori, Rivers State, which was convened to examine challenges hindering the official adoption and effective teaching of Ogoni languages in schools.

Speaking at the Congress, the Executive Director of the organisation, HRC Mene Magnus Edooh, Amb.P, emphasised the critical role of indigenous languages in preserving a people’s culture, values and history. He warned against the gradual extinction of native languages, noting that language loss equates to identity loss.

“Years ago, Latin was a language of global relevance, but today it is largely extinct. We do not want Ogoni languages to suffer a similar fate. As a people, we cannot afford to lose our identity through the death of our languages,” Edooh said.

He explained that the Indigenous Language and Culture Promoters was established to collaborate with language stakeholders to ensure that children and younger generations remain connected to their mother tongues. The organisation also appealed to governments at all levels, as well as relevant institutions and individuals, to take strategic actions aimed at promoting and sustaining Nigeria’s indigenous languages.

Also speaking, the newly appointed Director of Media and Information, Prince David N. Gbarato, questioned the rationale behind government reluctance to accord indigenous languages their rightful place in national development policies.

According to him, “People with well-developed languages are people with well-developed indigenous systems and affairs,” stressing that language development is fundamental to cultural and societal advancement.

The Congress further served as a platform for the ratification of key officers of the organisation and featured the participation of representatives from various indigenous language groups and other language stakeholders, all of whom echoed the call for renewed commitment towards safeguarding Nigeria’s linguistic heritage.

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Diri Approves N200m Monthly Grant for Bayelsa Farmers, Targets Increased Local Rice Production

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6 days ago

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January 19, 2026

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Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has approved a monthly support scheme of ?200 million for farmers in the state as part of efforts to boost food security and expand agricultural production.

The governor announced the approval on Tuesday at the flag-off ceremony of the 2026 dry season farming programme held at the state-owned rice farm in Otuasega community, Ogbia Local Government Area.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the volume of rice harvested during the last farming season, Governor Diri directed the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources to ensure a significant increase in the production of homegrown rice in Bayelsa State by the end of 2026.

He stressed that despite the government’s provision of necessary support to the ministry and farmers, it was unacceptable that the state still had to procure rice from outside during the last Yuletide period.

The governor charged the Ministry of Agriculture to take food security seriously, noting that Bayelsa has a comparative advantage in several crop areas, with fertile soil that does not require fertiliser to produce organic crops.

While commending the Commissioner for Agriculture and other stakeholders for organising the event, Governor Diri urged the ministry to ensure that such initiatives go beyond yearly ceremonies and translate into tangible benefits for the people.

According to him, agriculture remains a key pillar of the state’s economic diversification drive, which his administration has prioritised through heavy investments. He also called on civil servants and residents to embrace agriculture as a way of life.

“Let it not be that we come here for a yearly ritual. This is something that affects us as a people and so we must all take it seriously. Food security will continue to be a top priority of my administration,” he said.

He added that agriculture strengthens the economy and highlighted the importance of transportation infrastructure in moving farm produce from rural communities to the state capital.

“We are investing in agriculture and connecting communities. The roads and bridges support agriculture. We have developed partnerships and collaborations and will continue to partner with other agencies to ensure Bayelsa attains the expected food security,” the governor stated.

Governor Diri further directed that by the end of 2026, the state should record a minimum production of 300,000 kilogrammes of rice, stressing that government would patronise local farmers rather than sourcing rice from outside the state.

On security concerns, he reiterated that the state’s anti-grazing law remains in force, warning herdsmen against destroying farmlands and urging farmers to report such incidents to security agencies instead of resorting to social media.

He also cautioned traditional rulers against allocating land in forest areas to herdsmen, warning that anyone found culpable would be sanctioned.

“For our farmers, we will always support you. Honourable Commissioner, identify the genuine farmers in the state. What we did for MSMEs will also be done for farmers. Henceforth, ?200 million will be set aside monthly to support farmers in Bayelsa State,” he added.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Beke Sese, described the event as a reaffirmation of the state government’s unwavering commitment to food security.

He commended Governor Diri for his substantial investment in the agricultural sector, noting that it has been the driving force behind the progress recorded so far.

Representatives of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Bayelsa State chapter, Nigerian Women in Agriculture Business, the Nigeria Agricultural Insurance Corporation and the Central Bank of Nigeria, among others, also lauded the governor’s sustained support for farmers, which they said has significantly improved the agricultural sector in the state.

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Fanfare, Pageantry As Ohiauga Community Honours 31 Eminent Personalities with Maiden Leadership Awards

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6 days ago

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January 19, 2026

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Ohiauga Community in Igburu Clan, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, on Saturday, December 27, 2025, witnessed an unprecedented spectacle of celebrations, fanfare and cultural splendour as it honoured 31 distinguished personalities for their outstanding leadership qualities, selfless service and immense contributions to the growth and development of the community.

The historic event, which took place at the Ohiauga Community Town Hall, marked the maiden edition of the Ohiauga Leadership Awards and saw 27 illustrious sons and daughters of the community, alongside four non-indigenes, decorated with various honours in recognition of their unwavering commitment to the socio-economic, political and infrastructural advancement of the area.

From the early hours of the day, the once serene and seemingly sleepy community was transformed into a beehive of activities. The atmosphere was electrified with excitement as the sound of music echoed from different corners of the community. Everywhere was colourful, lively and festive, as men, women, youths and children, young and old, trooped out in large numbers, beautifully adorned in elegant traditional and modern attires.

The favourable weather further added glamour and grace to the occasion, enhancing the beauty and splendour of the event, as the people, stakeholders and visitors savoured every moment of the celebration.

Adding royal splendour to the colourful ceremony was the presence of the Eze of Igburu Clan, Eze Igburu IV of Igburu Land, His Majesty Eze Kenneth Nwabochi, who arrived at the venue in full royal regalia, accompanied by his retinue of chiefs, elders and other palace officials. His presence was a clear testament to the significance of the occasion and underscored the unity and collective resolve of the people to celebrate excellence and service.

One after the other, the award recipients stepped forward amid thunderous applause, cheers and admiration from the audience. These were men and women whose years of dedication, sacrifice and contributions have helped place Ohiauga Community on the map in terms of political relevance, socio-economic growth and self-help-driven development.

Indeed, Ohiauga Community today boasts of notable achievements credited largely to community-based initiatives, including a relatively good road network, stable and uninterrupted electricity supply powered through solar infrastructure, and other basic amenities that have improved the quality of life of its people. The honoured individuals, it was observed, have played significant roles in achieving these milestones, leaving their unmistakable footprints on the community’s development journey.

By honouring them, the community made it clear that the awards were not meant to signal retirement from service, but rather to encourage the recipients to intensify their efforts and continue to give back to their fatherland. Community leaders noted that although progress has been recorded, Ohiauga still faces serious developmental challenges that require sustained commitment and collective action.

Prominent among these challenges is the absence of a functional healthcare facility. The only cottage hospital project in the community, allegedly initiated by Total Energies Limited several years ago, was said to have been abandoned, leaving residents without adequate medical care. The community strongly appealed to the Rivers State Government to intervene and revive the project in the interest of the people.

The education sector was also not spared. The Ohiauga Community Primary School, according to the community, is allegedly in good shape, with a conducive learning environment, but lacks enough classroom teachers, as there is only one government-employed classroom teacher. To fill the void, the community reportedly employed five additional teachers from its meagre resources and currently bears the responsibility of paying their salaries.

These realities, stakeholders explained, provided further justification for the decision to celebrate and honour individuals who have consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and development of the community.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the Ohiauga Maiden Leadership Awards, Pastor (Dr) David Chizor Nwaoburu, described the event as a strategic initiative aimed at fostering peace, unity and development, while recognising and rewarding excellence and service.

According to him, the award ceremony was designed to honour eminent personalities who have distinguished themselves in public and private life, and who have continued to make meaningful contributions to the growth of Ohiauga Community.

Dr Nwaoburu, who was himself among the award recipients, said the recognition was intended to motivate the honourees to do more for the community and not to rest on their achievements. He urged them to continue to serve the interests of the people wherever they find themselves and to remain ambassadors of peace and development.

He further reiterated the need for government intervention in the abandoned cottage hospital project and the posting of teachers to the primary school by the state government, stressing that community development in Ohiauga has largely been driven by self-help efforts.

Among those honoured at the event were Pastor (Dr) David Chizor Nwaoburu; former Bursar of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr Davis Ojima; the Registrar of the institution, Dr Chinonye A. Ajie; Dr Obi Chukwuma Ebenezer Jular; Elder Kemmer Mark Godwin; Dr Nwokoji Chukwuemeka; Mr Nduka Louis Odiegba; Dr (Chief) (Mrs) Ojima; Comrade Chimezie Igwela; Engr Gideon Eke; Chief (Prof) H. A. Ajie; Hon. Sule Igwela; and Dr Obi Nwaoburu.

Others included Prof. (Mrs) Jennifer Igwela; Dr Charity Ajie; Eric David Orukwo; the Paramount Ruler of Ohiauga Community, HRH Dr Amb. Bright Abali; Mr Chukwudi Lloyd Reuben; Comrade Wisdom Adieme; and the member representing ONELGA Constituency I in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Nwabochi.

Also recognised were Comrade Kelvin London Oji; Pastor Smart Brass Maduagu; Chief (Hon.) K. O. Igwela; Harmony Igwela; Comrade Onyemaobi Igwela; and Late Elder Nwaba Maduagu, who received a posthumous award in recognition of his lifetime contributions to the community.

The four non-indigenes honoured for their dedicated services and goodwill towards the community were Hon. Marculey Ogolo; Hon. ThankGod Chibor; Comrade Kingsley Ogu; and Pastor G. Oreke, who was specially recognised as the only dedicated government classroom teacher at Ohiauga Community Primary School.

Reacting to the honour, the Registrar of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr Chinonye A. Ajie, described the award as a step in the right direction and a thoughtful gesture that encourages service and excellence. He called for harmonious relationships among all segments of the community and pledged his continued support towards education, job creation and collective development.

Former Bursar of the university, Dr Davis Ojima, also expressed gratitude to the community for recognising his contributions, assuring that he would remain committed to promoting peace, unity and sustainable development initiatives in Ohiauga.

Business mogul, Mr Nduka Louis Odiegba, said being honoured by one’s own community carries special significance, describing the recognition as the most cherished among the many awards he has received. He pledged to intensify his contributions to the welfare and development of the people, noting that “charity must begin at home.”

In his royal remarks, the Eze of Igburu Clan, His Majesty Eze Kenneth Nwabochi, emphasised the importance of peace, unity and the preservation of cultural values, describing the maiden Ohiauga Leadership Awards as a timely initiative aimed at strengthening communal bonds and fostering collective progress.

Giving the vote of thanks on behalf of the awardees, Mr Chukwudi Lloyd Reuben, thanked the community for finding them worthy of recognition, and commended the leadership and merit award committee for the excellent packaging of the programme. He urged the awardees to continue with their good work to the community, as the merit awards were a clarion call for more community development involvement and a wake up call for others to emulate the leadership qualities exhibited by the awardees.

Overall, the maiden Ohiauga Leadership Awards ceremony lived up to its billing, serving not only as a platform to celebrate excellence and service but also as a rallying point for renewed commitment to the development of the community, amid resounding jubilation, merriment and cultural pride.

 

By: Donatus Ebi

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