Waffi TV Station Set for Launch November 9th in Warri, Delta State

Waffi TV Station Set for Launch November 9th in Warri, Delta State 

Warri ______ Western Ijaw born Pastor Arex Akemotubo, the CEO/Managing Director of WAFFI TV is set to officially launch the  Television Station that is making wave on free to air Startime in the oil city of Warri, Delta State, on the 9th of November 2023, at Effurun.

According to the statement released on Monday signed by the CEO, Pastor Arex Akemotubo invite the general public to grace the long awaiting grand opening ceremony.

Read below full details of the Press Statement:

Ladies and gentlemen,

I am genuinely thrilled by the prospect of celebrating our grand opening with all of you. 9th of November 2023 marks the beginning of an exciting venture that holds the promise of transformation, innovation, and inspiration. 

WAFFI TV, while still in its infancy, aspires to become an integral part of your daily lives. We aim to be more than just a television station; we aim to be a companion, an educator, and a reflection of our collective aspirations. 

In this age of digital revolution and media convergence, we acknowledge that the role of a television station extends far beyond broadcasting. It encompasses community building, fostering dialogues, and being a catalyst for positive change. 

Our team at WAFFI TV has been diligently working to curate content that resonates with the heart and soul of Warri, Delta State, and Nigeria. From local stories that celebrate our culture to insightful discussions that address the issues of our time, we are dedicated to providing you with programming that both entertains and enlightens.

As we prepare to cut the ribbon on 9th of November 2023, I want to express my profound gratitude for your presence and support. Your presence at our grand opening adds to the significance of this milestone, and your ongoing support fuels our determination to excel and serve you better.

WAFFI TV is not just a station; it is a shared dream, and together, we will write its story. Tomorrow, we unveil this dream to the world, and I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. 

So, join us on 9th of November in celebrating this remarkable beginning. Be a part of our journey as we step into the realm of broadcasting and community engagement. Together, we will not only make history but also shape the future.

Thank you for being here today, and I look forward to seeing you all at our grand opening ceremony.

Warm regards,

Signed: 

Pst. Arex Akemotubo,

CEO/MANAGING DIRECTOR

WAFFI TV.

Read The Musical Journey of Pal Jagz, the Rising Star from Warri

Read The Musical Journey of Pal Jagz, the Rising Star from Warri 

 

In the vibrant world of music, uniqueness often sets the stage for an artist’s success. Meet Akeme Jasper Emienseimokumor, better known as Pal Jagz, or Ijaw Finest Boi, a young and rapidly rising multi-talented musical artist who is not just making music but also carving a distinctive path for himself in the entertainment industry.

Born on October 27, 1995, Pal Jagz may have started with his real name, Jasper, but soon realized the importance of creating a unique identity in the competitive music realm. Hailed from Ayakoromo Community in Delta State, specifically under Burutu Local Government Area. Pal Jagz’s musical journey has been a testament to his resilience and determination.

He attended Ayakoromo Grammar School in his hometown before furthering his education at the College of Education in Warri, Delta State, where he graduated in 2018. This was the starting point of his path toward becoming a prominent musical artist.

Pal Jagz’s journey has been a rollercoaster, with challenges that many aspiring artists can relate to. One of the significant hurdles he faced was financial constraints. The early stages of his career demanded not only talent but also resources to produce and promote music. However, with time and dedication, he managed to overcome these challenges and rise in the industry.

He believes that music is a universal language without barriers, a medium through which he can connect with people from all walks of life. His musical style, which he aptly calls “Afro Bounce,” aims to resonate with a global audience, making it relatable and enjoyable for everyone.

His sources of inspiration are diverse, ranging from the likes of 2Face, VIP, Reekardo Banks, and Wande Coal, all of whom have left an indelible mark on his musical journey. Despite the obstacles he’s faced, Pal Jagz remains committed to making music that speaks to the human experience, transcending boundaries and genres.

Pal Jagz is on a mission to inspire, entertain, and uplift his audience. His music reflects his deep connection to life’s various facets, from love to tension, sadness to joy, and everything in between. He crafts his songs to resonate with people from all walks of life, ensuring that his music remains a powerful and relatable force.

As he continues to evolve as an artist, Pal Jagz has big dreams for the future. He envisions himself collaborating with industry giants like 2Face, Reekardo Banks, Don Jazzy, Wande Coal, and Harrysong, taking his music to new heights.

Pal Jagz’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and talent. He believes that hard work, dedication, and staying true to oneself are the keys to success in the music industry. His upcoming album, titled “Dreams Don’t Die,” is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft and his dreams.

Appreciate Ndiomu for his good works, group tells N/Deltans, Stakeholders

Appreciate Ndiomu for his good works, group tells N/Deltans, Stakeholders 

Yenagoa ______ Major stakeholders from the Niger Delta have been enjoined to put their differences aside, close ranks and take full advantage of the opportunities presented to them with the presence of interventionist agencies including the Presidential Amnesty Programme to change the fortunes of the region.

The call which is contained in a statement issued in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State by the Niger Delta Peace Advocates (NDPA) says for long, people have been singing in discordant tunes to the detriment of advancing the socio-economic well-being of the region.

The statement jointly signed by Ebitimi Kurowei and Amangiye Thomas, Chairman and Secretary respectively, the NDPA noted that the Niger Delta Region is in a state of distress.

The group noted that “Part of the problems of the Niger Delta are self-inflicted. There is lack of cohesion, unity and the seeming culture of calling out those charged with the responsibility of developing the area to public ridicule is a very worrying trend”.

It said "A case in point is the Presidential Amnesty Programme, where the Interim Administrator, General Barry Ndiomu has made tremendous transformations with a shift from the past and focusing more on the sustainability of ex-agitators now and for the future”. 

The Niger Delta Peace Advocates urged people of the region to instead of dissipating energy on disparaging General Ndiomu, they should rather pool their resources together to form a body of experts to offer diverse pieces of professional advice and ideas on how to explore the potentials of ex-agitators and youths from the region towards positive directions.

The group argued that if the Presidential Amnesty Programme and the Niger Delta Development Commission had been established elsewhere in the country, people from such places would have taken full advantage of the opportunities presented by those agencies and work closely with their managements to reap maximally from them. 

According to the statement, the NDPA regrets that the reverse is the case in the Niger Delta and wondered why some people have turned themselves into cogs in the wheels of progress in the region.

“We condemn the culture of entitlement among our people particularly the majority of the ex-agitators who are still relying on the monthly sixty-five thousand naira stipend which has become inconsequential under the present economic realities in the country. This mentality has also created a culture of indolence which should be discouraged”, the statement added.

Ikuli Refers the Difference B/W Gov. Diri and Sylva as Light and Darkness

Ikuli Refers the Difference B/W Gov. Diri and Sylva as Light and Darkness 

Gov. Douye Diri like everyone of us has a fair share of human weaknesses, but on general assessment, he has done very well to merit a Second Term.

Beside restoring Peace, Unity and Security to our great state that is also the Home and Headquarters of the Ijaw Nation, he has done well in the areas of Infrastructure particularly Road Construction.

He has done well in the Education and Health Sectors and other areas.

His prompt payment of Workers Salaries and prioritization of Pensioners welfare is worthy of commendation.

Today, it is difficult to differentiate between members of PDP and APC because of the way and manner Gov. Douye Diri has brought all Bayelsans together.

The Governor is giving all Sections and Segments of the state high senses of belonging.

There is absolutely no way we can compare Gov. Douye Diri who is humble, unassuming, compassionate and very accessible with Chief Timipre Sylva who believe in using and dumping people.

Sylva knew he had ambition to contest for the office of the Governor of Bayelsa State yet as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources he deliberately impoverished everybody around him including all Chieftains of the APC.

Sylva had opportunity to give Approvals to Bayelsans and other Ijaws to lift products that could have made many Bayelsans to be Multimillionaires and Billionaires, but he deliberately refused. He rather gave such opportunities to non-Ijaws.

He had opportunity to give Employments to Bayelsans but he never did.

He had opportunity to give Scholarships to Bayelsans but he never did.

Why is it that Sylva did not engage qualified Bayelsans as sub-contractors in the multi-billion Dollars ongoing TURN AROUND MAINTENANCE of the REFINERIES, why did he give all the contracts to non-Ijaws?

Bayelsans and other Ijaws are not qualified to handle big contracts that will empower them but they are qualified to support his quest to come back and govern Bayelsa State in his quest for vendetta?

Is it not sad that he connived with others to exclude Bayelsa State from the Road Projects that NNPC executed in many states?

Is this the kind of person that want to come and govern Bayelsa State?

Does he think that Bayelsans do not know his plans to come and cause unimaginable problems in the State?

I am happy that Ijaws have never been conquered by any tribe and there is absolutely no way Sylva can come with external collaborators and conspirators to conquer Bayelsa State and Bayelsans.

The whole Ijaw Nation shall join forces to resist Sylva and his cohorts who are agents of retrogression. 

~~~ Most Senior Comrade Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli aka Mirror and Conscience of Society.

Inspt. Itikpan Celebrates Wife with Amazing Words on Birth Anniversary

Inspt. Itikpan Celebrates Wife with Amazing Words on Birth Anniversary

Francis Tayor

Warri ______ ln commomerating this years birth anniversary, the 2/IC ADR Section Burutu Area Command, Delta State, lnspt. Samson ltikpan has expressed his heartfelt love to celebrate his darling wife, Mrs Faith Samson ltikpan as she clocks plus one.

In a statement released on Sunday at Warri, the Polobubor Egbema Kingdom born refined Nigeria Police Officer described his faithful and adorable wife as a pillar, backbone, caring and supportive in building the home as well as proper upbringing of their children in the fear of God.

Attributing the unique characteristics of his beautiful wife, lnspt. Samson described her as a woman of kind hearted, humility, tolerance, accomodating and obedient to the core, stressing that his wife is the kind of life partner every dream man could think of.

He wholeheartedly thank God for giving him a wonderful woman as life partner, praying God to envelope her with sound health, divine protection against evil, longlife and prosperity, the statement added.

However, the celebrant Mrs Faith Samson annually marked her birthday's on 5th October. She hailed from Ogbinbiri Community in Egbema Kingdom, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Ijaw lnterest Group Warn NLC, TUC to Stop Trading on Nigerians with FG over Epileptic Strike Threat

Ijaw lnterest Group Warn NLC, TUC to Stop Trading on Nigerians with FG over Epileptic Strike Threat 

Warri _____ The Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI has warned the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress, TUC to stop trading with the problems of Nigerians.

A statement by the spokesperson of the group, Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala on Tuesday, warned the NLC, in particular, to stop their deception over issues of serious national importance, warning that Nigerians will soon regard them as agents and instruments of the government.

The Ijaw interest group noted that on every occasion, the NLC would deceive the public into believing it was protecting their interests, only to betray the course, and negotiate with the government at the expense of the suffering masses.

It was pathetic how labor rescinded the decision to go on with its planned strike scheduled for October 3rd, 2023, claiming to have a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the representatives of the labor unions and the federal government on Monday.

It is pertinent to state that the issues were not addressed labor have collected brown envelopes, handshake, or appreciation to fool Nigerians. NCL has tossed away its powers to negotiate on behalf of Nigerian workers, they cannot be probating and rebaiting all the time.

Oil/Gas Producing Communities Urge Tinubu to Constitute NDDC Board

Oil/Gas Producing Communities Urge Tinubu to Constitute NDDC Board

Firstly, we wish to congratulate our amiable President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on his victory at the Presidential poll and the recent victory at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

We the representatives and leaders of the Niger Delta Oil and Gas Producing Communities Forum wish to appreciate Mr. President for nominating the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board Members across her member states, in accordance with the NDDC ACT, 2000, in order to constitute the Board on time. Many thanks for this timely act to reposition the commission on the right track to attract develop to our Oil and Gas Producing Communities in the region.

The press statement signed by Chief Mulade Sheriff and Hon Goodness Gereghewei, as Chairman and Secretary, respectively, from Delta and Bayelsa States. It would be recalled that Mr President  nominated fresh Chairman and members of NDDC Board, on 29th August, 2023, subject to the senate screening and confirmation, for appointment into the NDDC Board, as   enshrined in the ACT. However,  since the Senate was on recess, nothing much has been done in that regard, and we expected that screening and confirmation of the NDDC nominees would be the first set of nominees to be screened and confirmed. 

We wish to strongly appeal to Mr President to kindly, as a matter of utmost importance, urge the Senate to screen and confirm these nominees for appointment to avoid a replay of nightmarish experience. 

It must be put on record that it’s still fresh in our minds when  sole administrators and acting Managing Directors of the commission, which in turn deprived the people of development and economic growth in the region.

Finally, we further wish to commend Mr President for picking some of the best brightest as nominees on the new NDDC Board are persons of good reputations and integrity. We appeal to Mr President to kindly consider the constitution of the board as a matter of urgency and forward the nominees list to the Senate for Screening/confirmation so that the Board could be fully represented by all the member States for effective delivery of development in the Region.

Apologize to Ndiomu, group urges blackmailers over false allegation against him

Apologize to Ndiomu, group urges blackmailers over false allegation against him 

Portharcourt___ Some major stakeholders from the Niger Delta have called on groups and individuals who have been engaged in serial petition writing and promoting negativity on the media and other public platforms to render unreserved apology to Major General Barry Ndiomu, Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme for their months of needless attacks.

The call is coming against the backdrop of the successful take off of the PAP cooperative scheme and the resuscitation of the aviation programme which has been moribund for eight years as well as other initiatives and policy direction.

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital the Niger Delta Peace Advocates (NDPA) and Grassroots People Agenda (GPA) said General Ndiomu has been vindicated from all the accusations and name calling by those un-informed people whose stock in trade is to pull down any influential person from the region they cannot manipulate.

The statement signed by Ebitimi Kurowei, chairman and Amangiye Thomas, Secretary, NDPA and Mimi Ochuko and Tare Ifiemi chairman and publicity secretary of GPA explained that General Ndiomu has shown capacity in his one year in office as exhibited in the various initiative drives and deliberate policy direction which are adding value to the lives of ex-agitators and people of the Niger Delta in general.

The stakeholders noted that “What the Niger Delta requires more than ever before is to harness the large idle youthful population into a proficient entrepreneurial and productive force with different skill-sets to drive economic change in the region and beyond. The large population of employed youths in the region, particularly those able-bodied male from whose lands the wealth of the country comes from, could be a ticking time-bomb that should be avoided”.

They stated that the Presidential Amnesty Programme under the leadership of General Ndiomu is doing things right having engaged with all relevant stakeholders on the way forward, what the Interim Administrator has succeeded in doing is a product of those consultations to change the lives of willing ex- agitators for good.

The groups said “It is however unfortunate that in the Niger Delta there are groups of people who intentionally antagonize public and appointed officers from the region by consistently posting false and offensive contents about them if things are not done their way. We know General Ndiomu is a disciplined 

officer with a high pedigree who has refused to compromise against all the name calling, petitions and the media attacks.”

The groups said they would work closely with all like-minded stakeholders from the region to rally round General Ndiomu to see to the success of the legacy projects, particularly the cooperate scheme which ex-agitators have confirmed has taken off with most of those who have gone through the process have started receiving their loans.

“The Interim Administrator needs the collective support of ex-agitators and stakeholders from the region and having seen his drive and vision and being witnesses to his sincerity of purpose and that he meant well for the region, it would only be proper for those who have maligned him unjustly, should render unreserved apologies to him” the statement added.

Kingsley Kuku Returns Home after 8 Years of Self Exile in the US

Kingsley Kuku Returns Home after 8 Years of Self Exile in the US

Akure_____ A very popular Niger Delta ljaw born human rights activist, philanthropist cum politician, Hon.

Kingsley Kimibradigha Kuku, fondly called 3K who was a former Coordinator of the Federal Government Presidential Amnesty Programme has made a surprise triumphant entering to his home town, Arogbo Community in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, after eight years of self exile in the United States of America.

It will interest you to note that Kuku went on hiding few months after President Mohammadu Buhari was sworn-in to office on 29th May, 2015 after President Goodluck Jonathan lost re-election bid, and the subsequent hunting of his personality by the then Buhari led adminstration.

He was spotted at Arogbo on 28th September, at the occasion of the 2023 Arogbo lbe Day celebration, after over eight years of hiding in the US.

Kuku was appointed the Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme for ex-agitators in the oil-bearing communities in the Niger Delta, during President Goodluck Jonathan administration.

He was a pioneer member of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), a notable ethnic rights group in Nigeria; and was the second spokesman of the council.

After his involvement with the Ijaw Youth Council, Kuku contested and was elected as member of Ondo State House of Assembly and thereafter became the chairman of the house committee for a period of four years.

His return has bring a renewed hope for the ljaw people because he remains a pilar of accelerated developement as well as human capital empowerment master in the Niger Delta Region.

He was awesomely welcomed home by his people, including the Agadagba of Arogbo lbe ljaw kingdom, Chief. Bibopre Ajube aka Sooth at sight, Barr. Bekewei Ajuwa, Jking Alfred lzon-ebi and the ljaw youth council worldwide.

IYC Frowns at Tinubu Over Sack of ljaws in NNPCL, Vows to Protest

IYC Frowns at Tinubu Over Sack of ljaws in NNPCL, Vows to Protest

Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide 

Press Release 

27/09/2023

IYC To President Tinubu: We Will Resist Sack Of Ijaws In NNPCL With An Attempt To Employ Only Northerners And Yorubas 

We are compelled as leaders of Ijaw nation to issue this press release today due to certain actions deliberately taken against the Ijaws in the Nigerian State by the President Bola Tinubu led Federal Government of Nigeria. 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, an umbrella body covering all Ijaw Youths in Nigeria and across the world have read on the pages of newspapers and other broadcast outlets in Nigeria weeks ago the purported sack of Ijaw sons and daughters in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited over alleged cooked and manipulated story of retirement. 

This forceful retirement of Ijaws in NNPCL is something that we will resist with the last drop of our blood. We see this as an attempt to exclude the Ijaws from the scheme of things and a well hatched plot to only employ Northerners and Yorubas in NNPCL. 

To us as a people, while we love Nigeria as a country and will be ready to do all within our powers for a united one Nigeria, we will not accept any attempt to unjustly undo sons and daughters of Ijaws occupying such sensitive offices in the Nigerian State, it is the promise of IYC that we will not allow this injustice to fester.

The Ijaws cannot continue to suffer the brunt of oil and gas exploration activities in Niger Delta and could be reduced and prevented by the Federal Government of Nigeria by not allowing their sons to have a say in the oil sector. We cannot be punished as a people for feeding the country. 

However, it is in the best interest of the Federal Government of Nigeria led by President Bola Tinubu to direct whoever that is in charge to urgently reinstate Ijaws that were sacked recently in the NNPCL without any offence. This country belongs to all of us. 

Their urgent reinstatement is in the best interest of Nigeria as anything other than this within few days from now will lead to total shutdown of NNPCL activities across the country. We cannot continue to be feeding Nigeria but will be begging for crumbs.

Nigeria is a multi ethnic nation hence whatever the Federal Government is doing must be a true reflection of Federal character. For obvious reasons, the NNPCL is gradually becoming a northern empire. 

The Ijaw Youth Council will also resist the purported buying of AGIP oil compay by OANDO without making it public for qualified Ijaws and Niger Deltans to bid for its take over. 

Before now, the Italian company (AGIP) has contributed a lot for the Ijaw people and her communities via its  cooperate social responsibility policy. AGIP is like the life wire of our people. The Ijaws and Niger Deltans must be given the opportunity to participate fully in the oil industry. 

The assurance is that, if these issues are not reversed quickly as soon as possible, the entire Niger Delta community will be left with no other choice but to shutdown NNPCL and other oil activities in the country. 

It is important to note that this warning is to NNPCL and its subsidiary companies operating in the Niger Delta region. It is our call that the issues raised be addressed urgently beginning from the day of this publication. 

Signed:

Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill,

Spokesman of Ijaw Youth (IYC ) Worldwide.

Izoukumor gifts rural schools writing materials worth millions in Delta

Izoukumor gifts rural schools writing materials worth millions in Delta 

Francis Tayor 

Warri _____ ln line with his giving back to society growth and development policy as well as giving hope to the needy, the Executive Director of Social Services in the board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, High Chief. Hon. Favour Izoukumor has gifted various riverine community primary schools across Delta State with writing materials such as books, biros, pencils e.t.c. that worth millions of naira.

In a statement released on Tuesday 26th September, 2023 by Hon. Favour Izoukumor Political Vanguard Media Team, stated that the kind gesture of the great Ogbe-ljoh born philanthropist cum politician was extended to primary schools in Burutu LGA and Warri South-West Local Government Areas in the State.

According to the statement written by David Wilson, said:

" In a world where access to quality education remains a pressing issue, individuals who go the extra mile to support learning initiatives deserve special recognition. One such remarkable individual is Hon. Chief Favour O. Izuokumor, whose unwavering love for education has made a significant impact on the lives of students in riverine communities. on the 26th September 2023, through the "Chief Favour O. Izoukumor Political Vanguard, Students Support Project," he provided writing materials to six different schools, brightening the educational prospects of countless children.

" The six fortunate schools that benefited from Chief Favour Izuokumor's benevolence are as follows:

1. Ewein Nursery and Primary School One, Ogbe-Ijoh

2. Isoun Primary School, Isaba

3. Ngbilebiri Primary School, Ayakoromo

4. Apiriboda Primary School, Ijansa

5. Fiyewei Primary

 School, Oporoza

6. Omaretsesione Primary School, Ogidigben

" This generous gesture extended to these schools is more than just a distribution of writing materials; it represents a beacon of hope and a promise for a brighter future for them. Access to writing materials might seem trivial to some, but for these students, it's a lifeline to their educational dreams. You could see the smile on their beautiful faces 

" Hon. Chief Favour Izuokumor's commitment to education goes beyond the act of providing materials. His initiative has ignited a spark of enthusiasm among students, showing them that their education matters. By nurturing the academic pursuits of these young minds, he is sowing the seeds for a more educated and empowered generation.

" Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge the dedicated teammates who played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful distribution of these writing materials. Their hard work and dedication demonstrate the power of collective efforts when it comes to making a difference in the lives of underserved communities.

" Education is a cornerstone of societal development, and Hon. Chief Favour Izuokumor's actions exemplify how individual initiative can be a catalyst for positive change. His love for education and commitment to supporting students in riverine communities is an inspiration to us all. We look forward to witnessing the continued impact of his efforts and hope that more individuals and organizations will follow in his footsteps to uplift education across our nation.

" God bless Hon.Favour Izuokumor 

God bless Delta State 

God bless Nigeria", the statement added.

IYC will Continue to Promote Peace in N/Delta, Nigeria _Amb. Binebai

IYC will Continue to Promote Peace in N/Delta, Nigeria _Amb. Binebai

Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.

Press Statement 

21/09/2023

IYC Will Continue To Champion Peace In Niger Delta, Nigeria 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has promised to consolidate and fashion out more ways in preaching and championing peaceful initiatives in Niger Delta, Nigeria and the world at large. 

The Ijaw Youth Council as a critical group in Niger Delta, Nigeria and beyond, we know the importance of peace in the World, hence we will do everything within our powers by working closely with relevant agencies and stakeholders in maintaining peace and tranquility in Nigeria and beyond. War is a scourge that must be resisted by all well meaning youths across the World. 

However, IYC will always resort to peaceful and legal means in demanding for justice, fairness and equity in the Nigerian State. Peace is indeed priceless as we must discourage violence under any guise. 

According to un.org, "The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly unanimously voted to designate the Day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire."

The main significance of celebrating the International Day of Peace Day or World Peace Day is to foster a culture of peace and non-violence across global communities. It creates awareness among people about the disastrous effects of conflicts, wars, and violence, thereby encouraging them to adopt cease-fire initiatives.

This year’s theme is Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals. It is a call to action that recognizes our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace.

Fostering peace contributes to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will create a culture of peace for all.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said, "Peace is needed today more than ever. War and conflict are unleashing devastation, poverty, and hunger, and driving tens of millions of people from their homes. Climate chaos is all around. And even peaceful countries are gripped by gaping inequalities and political polarization."

If the World needs peace more than ever, the Ijaw Youth Council is saying that Niger Delta and Nigeria at large needs peace more than ever. We stand for a peaceful and united Nigeria.

Signed:

Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.

N/Delta Group Hails Ndiomu for Reviving PAP Aviation Training Program

N/Delta Group Hails Ndiomu for Reviving PAP Aviation Training Program 

The Niger Delta Grand Initiative (NDGI) has hailed the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Major-General Barry Ndiomu, for reviving the PAP’s Aviation Training Programme for Cadet Pilots and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, over eight years after it was first conceived.

The social pressure group maintained that Ndiomu’s administrative focus and revival of the stalled training programme is a testament of his dedication to the empowerment of Niger Delta ex-agitators in line with the vision and mission of the PAP as well as the recognition to build the capacity of the region and the people.

In a press statement following the flagging-off ceremony of the Aviation Resuscitation Programme for Cadet Pilots and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers for ex-agitators of the Niger Delta in Lagos, the group said Ndiomu deserved to be celebrated as an icon for "capacity development" for accomplishing what his predecessors could not achieve even with the injection of greater funds into the PAP while they held sway.

"We are aware that the training is being provided by Alom Aviation Services Limited adjudged one of the best in the aviation training industry and we use this forum to align ourselves with the words of 

Ndiomu to those uninformed individuals who have been misinterpreting the Programme’s vision and mission" the group stated.

"We urge those pessimists to pay attention to both the Programme's short and long-term benefits especially now because the aviation sector is a significant touch-point for global commerce".

The training according to NDGI  presents a window into a future of greater benefits for the region  and the people and Nigeria at large.

The group argued that professional training such as the aviation scheme, would enhance regional skills of ex-agitators and youths which would in turn contribute to growth, bring peace to the Niger Delta as well as change the socio- economic narrative of the region.

The NDGI particularly agreed with Ndiomu on the issue of exportation of the trainees’ knowledge upon graduation in the pursuit of greener pastures since they would definitely add value to the Nigerian economy with their work abroad through foreign exchange remittance. 

"We therefore urge Niger Deltans to encourage and support Ndiomu for the initiatives being pursued in the PAP due to its huge benefits to the region and for his outstanding contributions  over the course of his one year in office" the statement emphasized.

The NDGI also enjoined the beneficiaries to maintain discipline during the training and remain focused on the greater objective for the collective good of the Niger Delta Region.

FG to Reclaim DSC Lands from illegal Occupants Soon, PSML Warns Developers

FG to Reclaim DSC Lands from illegal Occupants Soon, PSML Warns Developers 

Warri ____ Premium Steel and Mines Limited, current owners and operators of the defunct Delta Steel Company, Ovwian-Aladja, Delta State, has again cautioned land speculators and property developers to be wary of landed property acquired by the Federal Government of Nigeria for the purpose of developing the largest integrated steel complex in sub-Sahara Africa, adding that those making use of desperate vendors and building on federal government acquired lands risks losing their investments as the Federal Government can start to take action anytime.

The Director of Legal Affairs, Premium Steel and Mines Limited, Barr Emmanuel Agbaje, in a statement issued to newsmen on Thursday, stated that all the land on both sides and around the expressway from Igbiki and NBTC Junction to the Steel Plant are for the Federal Government and the aim is to develop and expand the Delta Steel Company.

According to him, there are subsisting courts injunctions stopping land speculators from trespassing on the aforementioned property and very soon action shall be taken against those building on the land.

Barr Agbaje disclosed that Premium Steel and Mines Limited have always warned land speculators from encroaching on those lands as they belong to the federal government and whoever refuses to listen to these warnings will soon face problems.

He said: “As we stated in our earlier warnings, the Federal Government which acquired those land did not at any time release the land to anybody for sale to land speculators.

“Those running from one court to the other in search of judicial pronouncement to back their sinister activities should understand that when the Federal Government bulldozers start pulling down those structures, PSML should not be blamed for the loss of their investment. They shall surely reap the whirlwind in due course.

“We are repeating these warnings so nobody would blame us when things start happening. Our newspaper publications and advertorials at huge cost to us will stand as witnesses against the trespassers. Nobody is above the law. However good your case is, if you flout valid court orders there must be consequences.

“It can take five, ten or even twenty years for the government to act. Act they must someday and when the bulldozers start coming, ignorance of the real owner (Federal Government of Nigeria) will not spare the illegally acquired property from the bulldozers.

“Government is already aware of the situation and it may act anytime soon. Buildings as tall as ten-storey edifices have been brought down by government bulldozers in Abuja, Lagos and other parts of the country.

“Let me repeat for the umpteenth time, stay away from DSC lands in and around the steel plant and other locations in Delta state so as not to lose your investments. Government is aware of the dubious activities of those encroaching on the lands and very soon, the federal government will come and take over that which they already acquired many years ago.”

PAP: Group blasts N/Deltans over incessant attacks on Ndiomu, warns against PHD syndrome

PAP: Group blasts N/Deltans over incessant attacks on Ndiomu, warns against PHD syndrome 

 

Yenagoa ____ A pressure group, the Niger Delta Peace Advocates (NDPA) has expressed concern over the pervading culture of the pull him down syndrome among some groups in the Niger Delta, saying the trend if not checked, will impact the region’s overall development as those charged with the responsibility of driving growth in the region could be discouraged from performing optimally.

Arising from a meeting in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital to proffer ways for an inclusive participation of all ethnic groups in the affairs of the region, they frowned at the role of some groups whose incessant protests, agitations, petition writing and negative media appearances was demarketing the Niger Delta and setting the people backwards.

In a statement signed by Ebitimi Kurowei, Chairman and Ekpe Ekpe-Ekere, Publicity Secretary, they noted in particular the unwarranted, uncultured and unconstructive attacks against the Presidential Amnesty Programme’s Interim Administrator, Major General Barry Ndiomu who from our observation has repositioned the Programme in line with the ideals of the founding fathers.

Since assumption of office a year ago as Interim Administrator, the NDPA says it is aware that General Ndiomu has recorded milestones successes in managing the PAP with added value in the reintegration process to build the capacity of ex-agitators and youths as part of the ongoing action to grow the economy and provide different skill-sets for people in the region.

The statement noted that “In this part of the world people are known to applaud the good works of their sons and daughters in public offices but regrettably, we find it unsettling and disturbing that despite the recorded milestones, the facetious petitions against the Interim Administrator are orchestrated by people from a particular ethnic group from two states in the region who share some affinity with him”.

‘’It is therefore surprising that the petitions and criticisms notwithstanding, the Presidential Amnesty Programme under General Ndiomu has recorded landmark successes with the PAP Cooperative Society legacy project, a well thought out scheme to provide financial empowerment through loans for those ex-agitators who are expected to apply for funds to enable them to grow and manage their personal businesses instead of building their futures around a meagre monthly stipend” it stated.

The Niger Delta Peace Advocates described those critics of General Ndiomu as selfish, greedy and unsatiated ingrates who see the Presidential Amnesty Programme as a cash cow and expects any chief executive officer to play ball with them in the spirit of business as usual or be disparaged and denigrated through public trial using the press, particularly the online media and bloggers as attack tools.

They flayed the culture of entitlement among some ethnic groups within the Niger Delta arguing that the mentality encourages indolence, unproductivity and in the long run hinders socio-economic growth in the region.

“The Presidential Amnesty Programme was established with a clear mandate to disarm, demobilize and reintegrate ex-agitators and it has run for more than fourteen years and if past chief executive officers who had huge resources had taken the initiatives introduced now by General Ndiomu, the majority of ex-agitators would have been successful drivers of the Niger Delta economy” the statement emphasized.

The Niger Delta Peace Advocates condemned the persistent, consistent and continuing campaigns of calumny against General Ndiomu who has however remained resolute in his resolve to do what is right and good for the ex-agitators while at the same time restoring the integrity and dignity of the PAP. “While we encourage him to excel and condemn those promoting the pull him down syndrome, we will not also hesitate to be critical of him though constructively, if he steps out of line” the statement added...