Otuaro Hails Tinubu's Effective Leadership At Nigeria-South Africa Commission Meeting

Otuaro Hails Tinubu's Effective Leadership At Nigeria-South Africa Commission Meeting 

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has commended President Bola Tinubu for providing competent leadership at the just-concluded 11th Session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission hosted in Cape Town, South Africa.

Otuaro noted that Tinubu's leadership provided clear directions for the active participation of the Nigerian delegation at the bilateral meeting, which he co-chaired with his South African counterpart, President Cyril Ramaphosa.

He said the President, as head of the Nigerian delegation, demonstrated capacity and unwavering commitment to working closely with Ramaphosa to deepen and sustain the two nations' bilateral relations and strategic cooperation within the ambit of the BNC.

Otuaro, who led a PAP team to the 11th session of the BNC, expressed optimism that the bilateral talks and negotiations culminating in harmonised Memorandum of Understanding to be signed by Nigeria and South Africa, would be mutually beneficial to both nations in diverse areas of economic and political interests.

Otuaro, specifically, thanked the President for accommodating the PAP in some aspects of the official agreement, noting that this development would further streamline the framework for implementation of training of the Niger Delta youths, especially in the areas of education and commercial aviation.

He described it as a huge boost to the implementation of the PAP's objectives, stressing that it would enhance the programme's initiatives for sustainable peace, security, stability, socio-economic growth and development in the region under the president's renewed hope agenda.

The PAP helmsman further stated that the President's gesture was a reflection of his strong support for the programme and his profound love for the people of the Niger Delta.

Otuaro said, "I applaud His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for providing quality leadership at the 11th Session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission.

"The President demonstrated effective leadership capacity as the head of Nigerian delegation and, of course, this provided clear directions for the active participation of our country's delegation in the bilateral negotiations for mutual benefits in the Memorandum of Understanding.

"I am very grateful to His Excellency for the fact that the PAP will benefit from the MoU that Nigeria and South Africa will sign which will capture education and vocational training of Niger Delta youths in commercial aviation and other trade areas."

Signed:

Mr Igoniko Oduma 

Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme 

Thursday, 12 December, 2024.

2024 Maiden ljaw Media Conference: Bozimo, Asu Beks, Ankio Briggs, Alagoa, Others Bagged Ernest lkoli Personality Award

Maiden ljaw Media Conference: Bozimo, Asu Beks, Ankio Briggs, Alagoa, Others Bagged Ernest lkoli Personality Award

Francis Tayor

Yenagoa _____ The maiden edition of the ljaw Media Conference and annual dialogue was successfully held on Wednesday 11th December, 2024 at Banquet Hall, Government House Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Capital with many dignitaries in attendance from all walks of life across ljaw nation.

The event was organized by the professional body of ljaw Publishers Forum ( lPF) led by Comrade Austin Ozobo, with the theme"Advancing The Quest for Economic, Environmental and Political Justice".

The event was chaired by the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, High. Chief. (Dr.) Dennis Burutu Otuaro who was ably represented by the head of Bayelsa State Liaison Office, Madam Esther Boro.

The various keynote speakers at the event, Dr. Asu Beks, Mama Ankio Briggs, HRM. Godspower Oporomor, Chief. Collins Cocodia, Se-Alabo Nengi James OON and Esther Boro centered their discussion on unity of ljaw nation, economic advancement, foster networking opportunities for ljaw youths, support and empowerment of media professionals from ljaw nation among others.

Delivering his keynote address, Mr. Asu Beks highlighted the ineptitude attitude of some of our ljaw political appointees as well elected representatives at the center and state level, while charging them to have a change of attitude by attending politely to the demands of the people they represent.

In her remark, Mama Ankio Briggs lamented how our ljaw political leaders used our 13 % derivation funds, NDDC and other agencies meant for the development of our communities to sponsor political parties owned by Northeners to the detriment of our region.

She however, advocated for Niger Delta people to form a formidable political party in order to restle power at the center comes 2027 general elections, adding that the oil money used to sponsor their political parties as well as the Nigeria's annual budget is coming from ljaw land, hence it can be channel to sponsor our own political party so as to compete favourably with the North and South-West during elections.

In his speech, the Commissioner for ljaw National Affairs Bayelsa State, HRM. Godspower Oporomor appreciated IPF for organizing the first ever ljaw media conference in order to discuss our challenges and profer solutions to ljaw nation development.

He promised Bayelsa State government readiness to support subsequent edition of the program, adding that ljaw nation is very proud of lPF humble begining in telling the ljaw story in the right perspective.

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Bayelsa State on Political Affairs, Hon. Chief. Collins Cocodia identified political party affiliation and disunity among ljaws as impediment to the rapid growth and development of ljaw nation. 

He called for love and unity amongst ljaw sons and daughters despite political party differences so as to fastrack socio-economic and infrastructural development to our communities.

While the representative of the amnesty administrator, Esther Boro thanked IPF for organizing this laudable event. 

She further highlighted the successes recorded so far in the amnesty office under Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro administration barely one year, while charging on the people of Niger Delta region, especially the ljaws to support the current federal government, adding that president Bola Ahmed Tinubu meant well for ljaw nation.

Delivering his goodwill message, the Vice President ll of ljaw National Congress (INC), Se-Alabo Nengi James (OON) expressed joy over the uniqueness of 11th December, 2024, saying that was the day ljaw youths held the first conference of Kaiama declaration in 1999.

He noted the first ljaw youth conference held in Kaiama in 1999 led to the formation of ljaw Youth Council, lYC and they sacrificed their time and resources for the interest of ljaw nation development.

He admonished the present ljaw youths to be selfless in serving ljaw nation, noting that those who had done well for ljaw nation would be encouraged by conferring award on them in recognition of their selfless services to ljaw nation such as what lPF has done.

However, the event also featured comedy session with Mr. Right Eyerin, MC. Akpolokpolo among others that add colour to the program.

Highlights of the event was the presention of Award of Excellence to some deserving illustrious ljaw sons and daughters who had meritoriously served ljaw nation in their field of specialization over the years.

Among them are, William Zideke Bozimo popularly known as Willy-Bee, Asu Beks, Mama Ankio Briggs, Comrade Morris Alagoa, Owei Lakemefa, Ernest lkoli of blessed memory, Comrade Joseph Evah and many others.

Mulade calls for more partnership for sustainable peace as Delta State ethnic peace and unity cup ends with ltsekiri nation emerges winner

Mulade calls for more partnership for sustainable peace as Delta State ethnic peace and unity cup ends with ltsekiri nation emerges winner 

...The Success Story of the 2024 Edition of the Delta State Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup Competition

Warri _____The 2024 edition of the Delta State Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup competition ended on a high note, fostering unity and celebrating sporting excellence among ethnic groups in Delta State.

*Novelty Match*

A special novelty match was played at Ode-Itsekiri between team Itsekiri/Ijaw on one side and the other ethnic groups on the other side to flag-off the tournament and also to mark this year's World Tolerance Day.

During the opening ceremony match at Ode-Itsekiri, the initiator and renowned global peace ambassador Chief Comrade Mulade Sheriff, members of the LOC, some retired ex-international and Nigeria Super Eagles players such as Sam Sodje, Edema Fuludu, etc, travelled to Ode-itsekiri in the Creek to witness the curtain-raiser, to ensure that the objectives of the tournament (promoting inter-ethnic peace, unity and friendly competition) was met, to also ensure that the organisation of the event met global standard.

It is imperative to state that since the ethnic conflict that engulfed Delta State over 20 yeas ago, particularly Warri and environs, this is the first time the Ijaw's & Itsekiri's are united by forming a unity team to play against other ethnic groups in the state.

The journey of this year's tournament started on November 16, and climaxed on December 8, 2024, featuring teams that represented different ethnic groups.

*The Ethnic Group Stage*

Preliminary matches took place in 6 ethnic group centres across Delta State, including:

1). Isoko Ethnic: Oleh Township Stadium.

2). Ndokwa Ethnic: Kwale Township Stadium.

3). Itsekiri Ethnic: Nana Model College Stadium.

4). Ijaw Ethnic: Ogbe-Ijoh Secondary School field.

5). Urhobo Ethnic: Agharho Primary School 

6). Ika Ethnic: Obiaruku Secondary School Field.

These matches revealed team spirit, determination, and sportsmanship among the players from various ethnic groups.

*Knockout Stage and Finals*

The knockout stage led to the thrilling grand finale between Team Itsekiri (Ugbomarun FC) and Team Ndokwa (Ndokwa East United FC) at Oreorokpe town in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, where team Itsekiri-Ugbomarun FC emerged winners by 3 goals to 1, claiming the championship title. The quarter final matches were played at Obiaruku Secondary School Field, in Ukwani LGA, and Ogbe Primary School Field, Effurun, in Uvwie LGA, leading to the semifinals that were played at Oleh Township Stadium, in Isoko South LGA, and Ogor Technical College, Ughelli North LGA.

*Awards and Prizes*

*Champions (Itsekiri Ugbomarun FC)*: ₦2 million cash prize, a trophy, and gold medals for the players.

 *Runners-up (Ndokwa East United FC)*: ₦1.5m million cash prize, and silver medals for the players.

 *Third-place winner (Team Urhobo, Udu United FC)* N1 million cash prize, and bronze medals for the players.

*Fourth-place team*:#500,000 and consolation prizes. However, Team Isoko, (Winsome FC) who were supposed to be fourth place winners, were disqualified and banned from participating in the next edition for breaching guidelines.

*Grand Finale*

It is worthy of note that the three (3) Senatorial District of Delta State fully participate in this year’s edition, miraculously through divine arrangement, Team Ndokwa from Delta North while Team Itsekiri from Delta South and the Final was played at Oreorokpe Town in Okpe LGA, Delta Central. This showcase the bond of unity in Delta State.

According to the organiser, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, the purpose goes beyond just playing for Peace and unity but the Delta State Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup achieved its primary objectives by fostering unity and promoting peaceful co-existence among various ethnic groups in the state. "This tournament has strengthened our bond and showcased the rich cultural heritage of Delta State," we do not just play for peace and building bridges of unity but equally hunting and discovery talents for Posterity. The LOC Chairman and immediate past chairman, Delta State Football Association (DFA) also collaborated the assertion by the sponsor, Delta State born renowned environmental rights activist. Comrade Mulade Sheriff.

*Future Prospects*

The success of the 2024 tournament has paved the way for the next (6th) edition of the competition. Plans are underway to expand participation, introduce new categories, and ensure that the event remains the cornerstone of Delta State's sports calendar.

Ijaw media conference holding on December 11, in Bayelsa is to address economic, political injustice in Niger Delta_IPF

Ijaw media conference holding on December 11, in Bayelsa is to address economic, political injustice in Niger Delta_IPF 

The highly anticipated Ijaw Media Conference and annual dialogue 2024 which was scheduled for Wednesday December 11, 2024 would address the continued economic, environmental and political injustice in Ijaw nation and Niger Delta at large.

It was gathered that the gathering would feature the Ernest Ikoli Personality Award to honour deserving Ijaw sons and daughters who have paid the supreme price in the media industry and the advocacy for economic, environmental and political justice in Ijaw nation and Niger Delta.

However, the conference tagged Ijaw media conference 2024 would be held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at noon.

The event is also designed to promote discussions on economic advancement, foster networking opportunities, and empower media professionals within the Ijaw nation.

The event which themed "Advancing the Quest for Economic, environmental and political justice is anticipated to draw participation from influential figures in both public and private media sectors, government officials, traditional leaders, business executives from the Niger Delta, as well as youth-focused and educational organizations.

In a statement by the Ijaw Publishers' Forum, IPF's national president Comrade Ozobo Austin said the event seeks innovative, locally-driven strategies for the economic growth and development of the Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta region.

According to the organisers the conference will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, and presentations on various topics, including media representation, community development, and advocacy.

Meantime, the Ernest Ikoli Personality Award, which is a highlight of the event, will recognize and honour outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of the Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta region.

The award is named after the late Ernest Ikoli, a renowned Ijaw journalist, Editor, publisher and activist who championed the cause of the Niger Delta and Nigeria people in the '80s.

The event promised to be an exciting and enlightening experience, and attendees are expected to include media professionals, leaders, and stakeholders from across the Niger Delta region.