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Honour Those Who Have Impacted Society, Wike Tells Rivers People

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Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, has recommended that chieftaincy title should only be bestowed on individuals who have impacted positively on society.
Wike made the remarks at the conferment of chieftaincy title, ‘Eze-Enwa-Gbaganu-Oha of Obio,’ on former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Onueze Chukwujinka Joe Okocha, SAN, in Rukpakwolusi town, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, last Saturday.
The Rivers State governor observed that one of the major challenges confronting the chieftaincy institutionwas the conferment of chieftaincy titles on individuals whose background was shrouded in mystery.
“The problem we have in chieftaincy institution, sometimes, you don’t even know where they go and bring chiefs and give them titles. You don’t even know the background. What is the contribution of the person to the community, to the kingdom, local government? You don’t know what he or she has contributed.”
Wike, on behalf of the government and people of Rivers State, most sincerely congratulated the legal luminary on the conferment of the chieftaincy title, ‘Eze-Enwa-Gbaganu-Oha of Obio on him, describing it as well deserved.
“I was one of those OCJ consulted and I say look you don’t even have to take permission, it is an honour well deserved. You have contributed to the development of not only Obio, Obio/Akpor, Ikwerre ethnic nationality, Rivers State and Nigeria. And so, all of us will be there to celebrate with you and your family.”
The governor noted that based on Okocha’s status in society, the conferment of the honour on him would not generate unnecessary friction.
According to him, Okocha would rather be duty bound to defend the interest of his community for the honour done him.
Wike lauded Okocha, who as an elder statesman has remained unwavering in his support to the government and people of Rivers State.
“He is one of the greatest supporters we have in this administration. There is nothing we do, that he has not given us support.”
The chairman of the occasion, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, advised communities in the state to bestow chieftaincy title only on their eminently qualified sons and daughters.
He described Okocha as a worthy son of Ikwerre land, having been recognised at the highest level of governance in the country for his contributions to national development.
In his remarks, Onueze Chukwujinka Joe Okocha, SAN, said he cherished the conferment of the title, Eze-Enwa-Gbaganu-Oha of Obio on him.
The former NBA president assured that he would carry himself with respect and honour that dignifies the title.
The occasion was graced by former Rivers State governor, Dr. Peter Odili; his wife, Hon. Justice Mary Odili rtd); former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chibudum Nwuche; Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ikuinyi Owaji-Ibani; Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Sir Siminialayi Fubara; and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Ordu.
Other dignitaries include, Nne-Nwe-Eli Emohua XIII, Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse; Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Chief Emeka Woke; the Lord Bishop, Diocese of Niger Delta North, Rt. Rev. Wisdom Budu Ihunwo; among others.

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Group Hails Tinubu, Chinda Emergence

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The 23 For OK & P-BAT Movement, a political pressure group championing the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governorship ambition of Honourable Ogundu Kingsley Chinda across the 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections, has congratulated both leaders on their victories at the recently concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries.

In a statement issued by the National Coordinator, Amb. Goodluck Braide, who also doubles as the President of the Renewed Hope Multi-Purpose Co-Operative Limited, President Tinubu’s victory at the APC presidential primaries in Rivers State was described as a reflection of his growing popularity and acceptance among Nigerians. The group noted that since assuming office in 2023, the President has implemented bold economic reforms aimed at repositioning the country for sustainable growth, prosperity, and national development.

According to the group, the outcome of the primaries is an indication of what to expect in the 2027 general elections.

The group also congratulated Honourable Ogundu Kingsley Chinda on his emergence as the APC governorship flag bearer in Rivers State, describing the primary election process as peaceful, transparent, free, and fair. It stated that Chinda’s emergence signals increasing political unity among Rivers people across ethnic and political divides.

According to the movement, the APC made a strategic and wise decision in presenting Chinda as its governorship candidate, citing his leadership experience, competence, charisma, and proven capacity as qualities that position the party for victory in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Amb. Goodluck Braide, National Coordinator

The statement further acknowledged the role of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, praising his political foresight, resilience, and commitment to maintaining unity within the political structure in Rivers State while ensuring the state remains relevant in national politics.

The group equally commended the leadership of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentanwe Yilwatda, noting that under his leadership since July 2025, the party has witnessed renewed strength, unity, and political growth ahead of the 2027 elections.

It also congratulated the people of Rivers State and Nigerians generally for their continued support and confidence in the Tinubu administration, which it said has made notable progress in promoting national cohesion, social integration, and economic development.

 

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Rivers Govt Hails Anglican Church’s Role In Peace, Development

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The Rivers State Government has commended the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) for its outstanding contributions to the development of Rivers State, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, education, healthcare, and moral development.
Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, stated that the Church has remained a dependable partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, moral discipline, and social harmony across society.
The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, made the remarks during the thanksgiving service marking the 30th Anniversary and First Session of the 11th Synod of the Diocese of Niger Delta North, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church on Sunday.
Governor Fubara described the Synod’s theme, “Kingdom Advancement: The Priority of Every Believer,” as timely and relevant, considering the prevailing realities in society.
According to him, the Church continues to play a vital role in shaping societal values and inspiring hope among citizens.
“The Church remains a vital partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, and moral discipline. Its role in shaping values and inspiring hope cannot be overemphasized,” he stated.
The Governor further acknowledged the Anglican Communion’s contributions in education, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, humanitarian services, and spiritual guidance across communities in Rivers State.
“The Rivers State Government appreciates the invaluable contributions of the Anglican Communion in education, healthcare, youth development, humanitarian support, and spiritual guidance. Your impact across communities in Rivers State continues to strengthen families and promote peaceful coexistence among our people,” he added.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a peaceful, united, and prosperous Rivers State where all citizens can thrive irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or social background.
He also urged the Synod to continue praying for sustainable development and progress in Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
Earlier in his sermon, the Guest Minister, Joseph Olushola, spoke on the topic, “Kingdom Investment and Internal Rewards,” urging Christians to remain faithful stewards of God’s blessings and committed to advancing God’s kingdom through service and generosity.
The cleric emphasized that believers are custodians of the virtues and resources entrusted to them by God, stressing that divine rewards are based on faithfulness and impact rather than material possessions.

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Shell, MAN Back Rivers’ Drive For Expanded Gas Supply To Industries

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The Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, in partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), 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.

By; Kevin Nengia

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