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NDDC Charges Youths On Sustainable Peace In The Region

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NDDC Charges Youths On Sustainable Peace In The Region

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has charged youths across the nine states of the commission to be ambassadors of peace building initiatives .
This move is to sustain the existing peace to propel development across the region.

The NDDC managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, gave the directive while declaring open a capacity building program for Niger Delta stakeholders on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and inclusive peace for sustainable development organised by the department of dispute and conflict resolution ( DCR) of the commission held in port Harcourt, Tuesday.

The program which is part of activities to mark the silver jubilee celebration of the birth of the commission has the theme: fostering lasting peace through ADR : lessons from the past, building future opportunities to advance the renewed hope agenda.

The NDDC managing Director/chief executive officer represented by his chief of staff, Rev Omeya Oworibo advised the youths of Niger Delta region to be vanguards of peace and avoid actions that could jeopardize the existing peace achieved in the region.

He emphasised that sustainable development can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace devoid of rancour and acrimony, stressing that as critical stakeholders in the region, they are to seen themselves as agents of development and to build frontiers with the commission to advance the developmental needs of the people of Niger Delta region.

He averred that the various developmental achieved by the commission was associated to the prevailing peace and stability noticed in the region.

He opined that the essence of the workshop is to brainstorm with the various stakeholders in the region ,especially the youths, on how best to ensure that the existing peace in region is sustained and how we can best manage ourselves without being confrontational.

According to him,the commission is open for positive and constructive engagement , adding that dialogue and meditation remains the key to finding a lasting peace in the society.

” I am excited on the level of people in this workshop and our core mandate is how to build and sustain the existing peace in the region. How do we keep and maintain this peace already achieved.”he stated.

The NDDC managing Director and chief executive officer urged them to carry the message of peace and stability to their various communities and villages so as to assist the commission achieve it’s core mandate of development in the Region.

Earlier in his welcome of address, the acting director, Dispute & Conflict Resolution (DCR),Ogedegbe Ayewumi Godwin(Esq), said the gathering is with shared commitment to harness the power of alternative dispute resolution ( ADR)as a critical instrument for sustaining peace, unlocking development and advancing the renewed Hope Agenda across the Niger Delta and beyond.

He stated that we stand at a consequential moment in our national journey, noting that the theme for the workshop “fostering lasting peace through ADR: lessons from the past, Building future opportunities to advance the renewed Hope Agenda”calls us to reflect deeply on what has worked, what must be reinforced and how we can leverage ADR to translate policy intentions into tangible, peaceful, and prosperous outcome for communities that have borne the brunt of conflict for too long.

Fear Grips Residents As Elephantiasis Hits Eleven Rivers LGAs

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Fear Grips Residents As Elephantiasis Hits Eleven Rivers LGAs

Fears has enveloped 11 local government areas of Rivers State following the high rate of transmission of Elephantiasis.

This was disclosed at the flag off of a 3-day free hydrocele surgeries organized by the public health department Neglected Tropical Diseases( NTDS), Rivers State Ministry of health in partnership with Christoffel Blind Mission (CBM) in Port Harcourt.

According to an expert, Elephantiasis popularly known as “Big leg,” is caused by lymphatic filariasis worms carried by mosquitoes.

It was also revealed that the World Health Organization (WHO) has set 2030 to eliminate Elephantiasis infection globally.

The affected local government areas, according to the information,include Andoni, Opobo Nkoro, and Degema.

The rest are Akuku Toru,Asari Toru, Ikwerre, Etche, and Ogu Bolo local government areas.

Also affected are Okrika, Ahoada East, and Bonny Local Government Areas.

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Government  has disclosed its readiness to ensure the success of the free hydrocele surgeries.

Director Medical Services, Rivers state Ministry of Health, Dr Vincent Wachukwu  said this while flagging off the program in Port Harcourt.

Wachukwu who oversees the office of the permanent secretary of the ministry said his office has also approved a reasonable sum of money to the director public health with the view to ensuring the inclusion of more beneficiaries in the Programm.

He commended Christoffel Blind Mission CBM for coming to the state to give succour and life to the people.

Also speaking, Dr. Joseph Kumbur of Christophel Blind Mission CBM said the group is committed to the Eradication of  anything that will lead to Disabilities.

Kumbur also said that in the coming weeks, the group will embark on door to door campaign with the view to distributing drugs in the eleven local government areas currently being infected by Elephantiasis in the state.

According to him, the campaign was in line with the World Health Organization WHO desires to eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases NTDS by 2030 and urged the Rivers State Government to strengthen its commitment already given.

Also speaking, Chief Medical Director of the Rivers State Hospital Management Board Dr Bright Ogbonda commended the organization for partnering with the board to embark on the program.

Ogbonda said the program was also in line with the activities of The Rivers state Ministry Health aimed guaranteeing quality health care service delivery to the people of Rivers state.

He said the board will ensure the success of the three day surgery.

Mining Firms Get FG’s Deadline On Community Development Agreements

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Mining Firms Get FG’s Deadline On Community Development Agreements

The Federal Government says mining and quarrying companies issued licences since 2024 have December. 31 as a deadline to conclude Community Development Agreements (CDAs) with host communities.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, gave the directive in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Thursday in Abuja.

This is coming after a performance review of mining companies’ compliance to CDAs for the first half of 2025, as presented by the Mines Environmental Compliance (MEC) Department of the ministry.

Alake said that companies that default on the deadline would be sanctioned, which could result in revocation of their licences and payment of reparations for minerals extracted.

He said that the report revealed that although 74 new mineral titles were issued by the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) in the first half of 2025, only 24 CDAs were signed.

According to him, in 2023, the MCO issued 960 small-scale mining licences, 391 quarry licences, and 37 mining leases, totalling 1,388 titles, all of which should have signed CDAs before commencing extraction.

“In 2024, the MCO issued 728 small-scale mining licences, 198 quarry licences, and 28 mining leases, totalling 954 mineral titles.

“The licence holders were obliged by law to engage host communities and sign CDAs before beginning operations,” he said.

The minister said that the wide margin between the thousands of mineral titles issued with only 342 signed CDAs was alarming, underscoring the urgent need to enforce compliance.

“Under our watch, responsible mining, marked by compliance with international Environmental, Social and Governance standards shall be the rule.

“We will not allow a situation in which companies rush to mine without first sitting down with the host communities to agree to execute projects and programmes that will address their needs.

“We have penalised companies that owed annual service fees by revoking their titles.

“Refusal to protect the Nigerian people by agreeing with them on what the communities will gain from the mineral exploitation of their land is criminal expropriation and an unpardonable injustice,” he said.

Alake urged communities to establish quality negotiation teams, including retired professionals who could bring their expertise to secure legacy projects and programmes that would benefit youths, women, and the community at large.

He cautioned community leaders and traditional rulers against making compromises that undermined CDA negotiations by demanding personal gifts from companies to the detriment of their communities.

“Some recommend contractors who do shoddy projects and pocket what the communities should benefit,” he said.

He commended the MEC’s Director, Dr Vivian Okono, for shutting down three companies, namely Istanbul, Venus, and Cornerstone, in August for delaying CDA negotiations with their host communities.

“That should be a clear signal to others that it is no longer business as usual,” he said.

Youths Hail NDDC MD’s Free Healthcare Support

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Youths Hail NDDC MD’s Free Healthcare Support

The Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Forum (NDENYLF) has commended the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for facilitating free healthcare services.

In a statement on Thursday, NDENYLF spokesperson, Mr Legborsi Yamaabana, said the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Yamaabana lauded Ogbuku for demonstrating leadership, empathy, and concern for the region’s youth, describing his efforts as a step toward securing the health and future of the next generation.

“The youths of the Niger Delta are proud of his exemplary kindness.

“We urge other leaders and public officials to emulate this noble gesture and show genuine care for those they serve,” he said.

Yamaabana revealed that a recent beneficiary of the healthcare support was Mr Utienyin Godwin, a former President of the Itsekiri National Youth Council, who received urgent medical assistance.

He explained that Godwin fell ill while attending an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) training organised by the NDDC, and required immediate medical attention to stabilise his condition.

“Ogbuku personally visited the hospital, paid all medical expenses, and gave instructions for thorough treatment to be administered without delay,” Yamaabana added.

He described the act as a clear display of compassionate leadership and said the NDENYLF could attest to Ogbuku’s unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of Niger Delta residents.

NUC Commences  Verification Of 73 Degree Programmes Of Federal University Of Environment And Technology, Ogoni 

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NUC Commences  Verification Of 73 Degree Programmes Of Federal University Of Environment And Technology, Ogoni 
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has commenced resource verification of 73 degree programmes across seven faculties at the newly established Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET), Koroma/Saakpenwa, in Ogoni, Rivers State.
The verification exercise began today and is a critical step towards securing approval for the institution’s academic programmes, with the NUC team assessing facilities, staff strength, and curriculum to ensure compliance with national standards.
Welcoming the NUC officials, the Vice Chancellor of FUET, Prof. Prince Chinedu Mmom expressed gratitude for the visit and emphasised the institution’s commitment to meeting the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commence academic activities in the September 2025 academic session.
“You are aware that this is a newly established university, created through the Act parliament and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 3rd February 2025. Just about 5 weeks ago, the Honourable Minister of Education inaugurated the Governing Council and principal officers, with a clear mandate to ensure academic activities commence this September,” Prof. Mmom said.
He commended the Rivers State Government for facilities at Saakpenwa and Koroma, as well as the people of the Koroma community who gifted the university 99.3 hectares of land. He noted that renovation and infrastructural work have been fast-tracked despite the absence of federal budgetary allocation for the institution’s takeoff.
Prof. Mmom disclosed that the university had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with nearby institutions, including the Rivers State University, Rivers State Polytechnic, and University of Port Harcourt, for temporary academic and infrastructural support. He also highlighted ongoing preparations, including the provision of dormitories, classrooms, laboratories, ICT centres equipped with over 170 computers, and staff quarters.
Speaking on behalf of the NUC team, Professor John Ohaka explained that the verification exercise is part of ensuring readiness for takeoff in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“All we are doing here today is to assess the level of preparedness and ensure that the university starts on a strong footing. What we need now is quality education to drive sustainable development, and this exercise will help position FUET to compete globally,” he said.
Ohaka praised the university management for its hospitality and assured that the team would thoroughly inspect the facilities across both campuses to make recommendations where necessary.
The seven proposed faculties under verification include: Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, and Faculty of Management Technology. Others are Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, and Faculty of Education.
The Federal University of Environment and Technology, located in Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State, is one of the newest federal universities established to expand access to tertiary education and promote research in environmental and technological studies.

Rivers Assembly To Probe Emergency Rule Expenditures  …Request List Of Commissioner-nominees From Gov. Fubara 

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Rivers Assembly To Probe Emergency Rule Expenditures  …Request List Of Commissioner-nominees From Gov. Fubara 
Following the lifting of the six-month state of emergency imposed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu last Wednesday, the Rivers State House of Assembly has swung into action, as the lawmakers resumed plenary on Thursday.
President Bola Tinubu had lifted the emergency rule on September 17, with the Governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the state assembly asked to resume duties on September 18.
The plenary, which was presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon Martins Amaewhule took place at the conference hall located within the legislative quarters in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
The conference hall has served as the lawmakers’ temporary chamber since their official chamber at the assembly complex on Moscow Road was torched and presently undergoing reconstruction.
At Thursday’s plenary, which was the first by the Assembly since their last sitting on March 12, 2025, the legislators adopted a motion sponsored by nine members to review how funds were expended on projects and programmes, during the period of emergency rule.
Moving the motion, the Leader of the House, Hon. Major Jack and the Deputy Leader, Hon. Linda Somiari-Stewart and seven others said their was a need to establish a clear picture of where the state stood financially since several contracts were awarded and funds spent from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Account by the former Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd).
The Assembly noted that since it neither saw nor contributed to the state budget, it was necessary to work with the state governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara on a new financial plan, in form of an Appropriation Bill, that will reflect the aspirations of the people of the state.
The Assembly also urged the governor to, in line with the Constitution and the peace agreement, forward the list of commissioner nominees that will constitute the State Executive Council to it for confirmation.
When the Speaker of the House, Rt.Hon Martins Amaewhule, called for a voice vote, all the 26 members were in support of the motion.

Lifting Of Emergency Rule: Rivers Equity Group hails Fubara, Wike Amaewhule For Courage, Statesmanship 

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Lifting Of Emergency Rule: Rivers Equity Group hails Fubara, Wike Amaewhule For Courage, Statesmanship 
The restoration of peace and stability in Rivers State has been attributed to the bold and unbiased display of restraint, courage, and statesmanship by the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, and the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Martins Amaewhule.
A non-governmental organisation, the Rivers Equity Group (REG) made this known on Thursday in a statement to herald the lifting of the six-month state of emergency imposed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025 in the midst of the political crisis that rocked the state.
REG, in a statement signed by its leader, Hon. Clapton Ogolo and Secretary, Pastor Bernard Odike, noted that the peace and stability that have been restored in the state would have been impossible, but for the sacrifices, forgiveness, understanding, love and unity exhibited by the political leaders. The group commended them for the display of maturity and love for the development of the state.
The statement also commended President Bola Tinubu for his fatherly role and unwavering commitment to safeguarding democracy and unity in Rivers State while the crisis lasted.
“We most sincerely appreciate the fatherly role of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his intervention and unwavering commitment to safeguarding democracy and unity in Rivers State. Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to Chief Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, Honourable Minister of the FCT, and to Chief Ferdinand Anabraba, whose wise counsel and collaborative efforts were invaluable in achieving this outcome,” the statement read.
Rivers Equity Group further described the efforts of the political leaders in seeing to the end of the crisis as “a new chapter of resilience and leadership that will remain inspirational to generations of Rivers people.”
“Your collective efforts have not only restored normalcy but also rekindled hope, strengthened institutions, and reaffirmed the true spirit of democratic governance. You have written a new chapter of resilience and leadership that will remain inspirational to generations of Rivers people,” the statement further noted.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to partner with the government to ensure greater peace, prosperity, and development in Rivers State and wished the leaders, “greater wisdom, good health and strength to consolidate gains and advance the welfare of the people.”
“On behalf of the leadership and entire membership of Rivers Equity Group, we reaffirm our unwavering support, prayers, and partnership with your administration as you continue to steer Rivers State towards greater peace, prosperity, and development,” the statement concluded

Lifting of Emergency Rule: Rivers Elders, Leaders Hail Tinubu, Say It’s Time To ‘Reset And Rebuild’

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Lifting of Emergency Rule: Rivers Elders, Leaders Hail Tinubu, Say It’s Time To ‘Reset And Rebuild’
A call has gone for the people of Rivers State to reflect over the political developments that led to the declaration of a state of emergency and ensure that such does not reoccur through forgiveness, dedication and unity.
The Rivers Elders and leaders Forum made the call while commending President Bola Tinubu for lifting the six-month state of emergency imposed on the state, stating that it is now time to “reset and rebuild.”
A statement signed by the acting chairman of the forum, Sir Gabriel Toby, and made available to newsmen, said the restoration of democratic governance through the recall of the governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Nma Odu, and the state legislature, presents an opportunity for sober reflection, healing of wounds, and restoration trust, in all ramifications.
The statement reads thus:
“On behalf of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum (RIVELF), we extend warm greetings of peace, strength, and renewed hope to the good people of Rivers State. We also thank the President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for lifting the State of Emergency and restoring full democratic governance in our state.
“As we welcome the return of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, Governor of Rivers State, Her Excellency, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, DSSRS and the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martins Ameawhule, DSSRS and other members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, we are presented with a unique opportunity to reset and rebuild. This is a moment for peace, sober reflection, forgiveness, rededication, and unity. A chance to heal wounds, restore trust, and refocus our energies towards the progress of our state and well-being of our people.
“We call on the Governor, members of the State House of Assembly, other political actors, and stakeholders to put aside bitterness, rebuild confidence in each other, and embrace reconciliation. Let our communities and factions replace anger with understanding, suspicion with trust, and resentment with renewed brotherhood.
“This new dawn also calls for rededication to service and good governance. The return of the Governor and a fully functional Assembly must not simply mark a political settlement but a fresh start rooted in accountability, transparency, and integrity. Leaders must recommit themselves to their constitutional duties, ensuring every decision is guided by the welfare and interest of Rivers people.
Rivers State is richly blessed with diverse communities, cultures, and traditions, yet we share one destiny. Division weakens us; unity strengthens us. We must set aside factional differences and work together to tackle unemployment, insecurity, infrastructural decay, and environmental degradation. Whether in government or opposition, rural or urban, we must remember that Rivers State belongs to us all, and its future depends on our collective resolve to overcome the challenges confronting our people and the state.
“Finally, we urge the good people of Rivers State to remain calm, peaceful, and hopeful, as we enter this new phase. Reject violence and resist those who seek to divide us. Support lawful governance, pray for wisdom for our leaders, and actively participate in rebuilding our state. Let this season be remembered as the time Rivers people chose reflection over reaction, forgiveness over conflict, dedication over neglect, and unity over division.
“May this moment usher in lasting peace, progress, and prosperity for generations to come.”

FAAC: FG, States, LGs Share N2.2 Trillion Revenue In Record-breaking Allocation

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FAAC: FG, States, LGs Share N2.2 Trillion Revenue In Record-breaking Allocation

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has disbursed N2.225 trillion as federation revenue to federal government, states, and local government councils for the month of August.

The sum, the highest-ever allocation, marks the second consecutive month that FAAC disbursements have crossed the N2 trillion mark.

Since January, the three tiers of government have shared allocations as follows: January N1.703 tr; February N1.678 tr; March N1.578 tr; April N1.681 tr; May N1.659 tr; June N1.818 tr; and July N2.001 trillion.

According to a statement issued after the meeting of the committee, the N2.01 trillion revenue for July, shared during the August FAAC meeting in Abuja, was buoyed by increases in Oil and Gas Royalty, Value Added Tax (VAT) and Common External Tariff (CET) levies.

Of the N2.225 trillion distributable revenue for August, the committee said that N1, 478.593 trillion came from statutory revenue, N672.903 billion from VAT, N32.338 billion from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL), and N41.284 billion from Exchange Difference.

The communiqué further showed that gross federation revenue for the month stood at N3.635 trillion. From this amount, N124.839 billion was deducted as cost of collection, while N1,285.845 trillion was set aside for transfers, interventions, refunds, and savings.

From the statutory revenue of N1.478 trillion, the federal government received N684.462 billion, state governments received N347.168 billion, and Local Government Councils received N267.652 billion. A further N179.311 billion (13 per cent of mineral revenue) went to oil-producing states as derivation revenue.

From the distributable VAT revenue of N672.903 billion, the federal government received N100.935 billion, the states received N336.452 billion, while the local governments got N235.516 billion.

Of the N32.338 billion shared from EMTL, the federal government got N4.851 billion, the 36 states received N16.169 billion, and N11.318 billion went to the local government areas.

From the N41.284 billion Exchange Difference, the Federal Government received N19.799 billion, the States received N10.042 billion, the councils received N7.742 billion, while N3.701 billion (13 percent of mineral revenue) was shared to the oil-producing states as derivation.

While total allocation in August set a new record, FAAC explained that gross statutory revenue fell to N2.838 trillion, compared to N3.070 trillion in July — a drop of N231.913 billion.

The communiqué explained that Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Companies Income Tax (CIT), Import Duty, Excise Duty, and EMTL recorded decreases during the month, while VAT, Oil and Gas Royalty, and CET levies boosted overall revenue.

Transition In Rivers: Fubara Returns, Ibas Departs As Emergency Rule Ends

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Transition In Rivers: Fubara Returns, Ibas Departs As Emergency Rule Ends

Retired Vice Adm. Ibok-Ete Ibas on Wednesday bowed out as Administrator of Rivers, following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to lift the emergency rule and reinstatement of Gov. Siminalayi Fubara.

President Tinubu had on March 18, declared six months state of emergency in Rivers due to unhealthy political atmosphere in the state at the time.

Tinubu had promised to restore democratic rule if situation improves after the six months which he did following a statement issued to that effect on September 17.

In compliance to the order ending the emergency rule, Ibas, in a statewide broadcast in Port Harcourt on Thursday, expressed gratitude to Rivers people and Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility to serve.

“Six months ago, President Tinubu, entrusted me with the responsibility of steering Rivers’ affairs through an extraordinary moment in its history.

“Today, that mandate has been accomplished,” he said.

The former administrator said that law and order had been restored, local government council elections conducted and statutory boards and commissions reconstituted.

He also noted that the state budget had been passed by the National Assembly, providing a legitimate fiscal framework for governance and development.

“These milestones reflect the resilience of a people determined never to let their state slip into paralysis,” he added.

Reflecting on lessons from the period, Ibas cautioned political actors against exercising power without restraint, warning that rivalry without dialogue endangered democracy and risked crippling institution.

The retired naval chief urged citizens to support Fubara and advised political leaders to prioritise unity and stability above personal ambition.

“The emergency rule was never about one man, but about restoring dignity to governance and giving the people what is rightfully theirs.

“Leadership is a shared responsibility. No matter how clear a vision may be, it requires citizens’ active support,” he said.

Ibas commended the civil servants, security agencies, community leaders and residents for maintaining stability during the emergency period.

The lifting of emergency rule and the reinstatement of Fubara has ended six months of uncertainty in Rivers, but the political landscape remains fragile.

Observers note that while President Tinubu’s intervention averted a deeper crisis, questions remain over whether the underlying tensions that led to the suspension of democratic institutions have been fully resolved.

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