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Primary, Secondary, Technical Schools Set To Adopt Revised Curricula

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Primary, Secondary, Technical Schools Set To Adopt Revised Curricula

The Federal Government has announced that primary, secondary, and technical schools across Nigeria will adopt revised curricula aimed at improving education standards and aligning learning with national development goals.

The Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, Bariowo Folasade, revealed this in a statement signed on August 29, 2025. The announcement was further reiterated by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, who spoke in Abuja on behalf of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa.

Prof. Ahmad explained that the curriculum review was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, the Universal Basic Education Commission, the National Senior Secondary Education Commission, and the National Board for Technical Education.

According to him, the new curricula are designed to reduce content overload and foster deeper learning, while equipping students with practical and relevant skills. He stressed that the exercise was not merely a trimming of subjects but a restructuring to enhance quality learning.

Under the revised arrangement, pupils in Primary 1–3 will take a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 10 subjects. Those in Primary 4–6 will be allowed between 10 and 12 subjects, while Junior Secondary School students will offer 12 to 14 subjects. Senior Secondary School students will take 8 to 9 subjects, and technical school students will be required to offer 9 to 11 subjects.

“The revised curricula will reduce content overload and create more learning time for students,” Ahmad said.

Although the Ministry of Education did not provide an exact date for implementation, it assured that the revised curricula will be supervised by relevant agencies to ensure a smooth transition and effective adoption across the nation’s schools.

The rollout had earlier been postponed until September 2025, following an announcement by the immediate past Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, who initially stated that the new curriculum would commence in January 2025. He further explained that the reform requires the inclusion of at least two skill-based subjects in the basic school curriculum.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s education system, noting that the revised curricula mark a step toward preparing students with the knowledge and skills required for national development and global competitiveness.

South African Don Wants African leaders To Avoid Costly Historical Mistakes

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South African Don Wants African leaders To Avoid Costly Historical Mistakes

For African countries to make meaningful progress, her leaders must learn from the successes and failures of leaders from other continents.

A South African don, Dr Greg Mills said there was the need for an urgent transformational leadership to drive Africa’s progress and avoid repeating historical mistakes Lagos.

Mills, a former visiting fellow at the University of Navarra and National Director, South Africa Institute of International Affairs made the remarks during the institute’s session with its Executive Syndicate Class for top Chief Executive Officers (CEOs).

A statement by Prof. Elvis Otobo, Media Consultant, Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute (OOLI) in Ogun, issued to newsmen on Sunday in Lagos noted that in his presentation, Mills drew insights from his acclaimed book, ‘The Essence of Success’ and other works, to illustrate how leadership traits from sports, business, media and politics intersect.

According to him, transformational leadership is inextricably linked to governance and political environments.

“Being an effective manager does not guarantee visionary leadership.

“Leaders must motivate teams, articulate a clear vision, pursue bold policies, and resist distractions of power or popularity.

“True leaders distinguish between tactical and strategic actions,” he explained.

He noted that at one moment, true leaders were passionate, prepared, and patient, and in the next, they demonstrated conviction, courage, communication, and compassion through their vision and energy.

Mills then highlighted consistency in core leadership qualities as one of the four “threads of success” that every leader must weave into their approach.

The don also listed the relentless pursuit of excellence, the ability to envision, plan, and communicate effectively, as well as the capacity to recognise the difference between being good and being great.

On his part, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Founder and Chairman of OOLI’s Governing Board, reinforced the message with a clarion call to the continent’s leaders.

“African countries stand the chance to benefit from quality transformational leadership. We need leaders who are committed to Africa’s infrastructural, human, and capital development,” he said.

Prof. Samuel Daramola, Deputy Chief Executive of the institute and moderator of the session, praised the depth of the discussion and reiterated OOLI’s commitment to hosting world-class speakers.

“This event marks another milestone in our mission. OOLI will continue to facilitate strategic engagements that challenge conventional thinking and empower Africa’s next generation of ethical, transformational leaders,” Daramola said.

Quackery: RSG Seals 72 Facilities, Arrests 12 Persons

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Quackery: RSG Seals 72 Facilities, Arrests 12 Persons

The Rivers State Anti-Quackery Committee has sealed over 72 facilities and arrested 12 persons since it began operations in the state.

Chairman of the committee and Director, Medical Services, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr. Vincent Wachukwu said this recently while briefing journalists on the activities of the committee in Port Harcourt.

Wachukwu, who was the Director of Medical Services, Rivers State Ministry of Health, said many of the arrested persons are undergoing investigation for possible prosecution, while a few others have been prosecuted.

According to him, despite the much efforts being put in by the committee and the Rivers State Government to rid the state of quacks, they still operate in several parts of the state, including Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor and its environs.

The Chairman assured that the committee and the government are committed to protecting the lives of Rivers people and ensuring that they get proper care from qualified health personnel.

“We have really worked so hard since the inception of this Anti-Quackery Committee. We have sealed about 72 hospitals, and we have arrested 12 persons in connection with quackery.

“If you also recall, there was a hospital that was sealed sometime ago in Oyigbo that was being manned by a Korean.

“He was arrested and detained by the Department of State Security (DSS), and probably for diplomatic reasons, he was deported, and so his own activity in Nigeria has ended. Some people have also been imprisoned because of their activities, “he said.

He lamented further that “despite the efforts of this committee and the government to rid Rivers State of these quacks, it would surprise you to note that these practices are still going on in so many areas and local governments unabated, including Port Harcourt, Obio/ Akpor and its environs.

“Now based on these, the committee has continued in its activity of visiting these facilities to look into what they are doing and to take necessary actions.”

Giving a breakdown of its recent successes, Wachukwu said last Friday, some facilities and individuals operating illegally within Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre Local Government Areas of the state were sealed for various offences, including operating without licences, unhealthy environments, and operating from residential apartments.

He listed the sealed facilities and individuals to include Sosan Medical Centre and Laboratory/Nursing School, located off Okporo Road; Bristol Clinic and Maternity, Rumuodumaya, operated by one Mr. Kingsley Ugwu, a suspected fake Doctor; Adoration Hospital and Maternity Limited, Omagwa; Lucky Pharmacy, Omagwa, and Miss Rejoice Ogbia, a patent medicine dealer in Aluu, who was reported to be carrying out unauthorized practices beyond her scope of training.

He also warned medical practitioners against colluding with quacks to sabotage the healthcare sector in the state.

“We also want to use this opportunity to warn some of our health workers to desist from some of their activities because some of them are aiding and abetting some of these things that are happening.

“You can’t imagine a doctor going to a maternity to do surgery when the primary healthcare centre that is built and being run by the government is not authorized to do surgery,” he stated.

Wachukwu also urged the media to be wary of the kind of advertorials they publish in order not to deceive the public into patronising quacks.

He used the opportunity to reiterate the ban on all unauthorized medical outreaches by NGOs, individuals, and churches.

“We also want to use this medium to warn, once more, that no religious organisation, no private hospital, no NGO, no civil society organisation, no individual, not even a company is authorized to carryout any form of free medical care without an approval from the Ministry of Health through the office of the Director of Medical Services”, he added.

While urging the people to desist from patronising quacks, Wachukwu said they should take advantage of the Rivers State Contributory Health Insurance Programme (RIVCHIP) to access near-free healthcare services.

He also commended the efforts of various health organisations, security agencies, non-governmental organisations, civil society groups, religious groups, and individuals for their support.

On his part, the Chairman of Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Rivers State, Dr. Diamond Tamunokuro said the association would not defend any doctor found indulging in illegal practice.

He urged all facilities to get the requisite approvals from the Ministry of Health.

“What Rivers people and the Rivers State Government are saying is that quacks are no longer allowed in the health sector in Rivers State. If you are not registered with the Rivers State Ministry of Health, you’re not qualified to do what you are doing.

“If you are practising in a place that’s not supposed to be used for a hospital, then you should desist from it from now because the Anti-Quackery Committee will get you.

“We are going beyond just Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt. We are going to places far away from the main cities. The moment the committee gets you, you’ll be arrested and prosecuted.

“The NMA is not going to defend you because you’re a doctor, the NMA will do the right thing to ensure that you serve the punishment you are supposed to serve. Lives of Rivers people matter, and it’s our collective duty to protect those lives, “he stated.

Ogbuku Seeks Special Court For Crude Oil Theft, Pipeline Vandalism  … As NDDC Pushes For Blue Economy Advantage In N/Delta

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Ogbuku Seeks Special Court For Crude Oil Theft, Pipeline Vandalism  … As NDDC Pushes For Blue Economy Advantage In N/Delta

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has appealed for the creation of a Special Court to handle cases of theft and related offences against the commission, in a bid to fast-track judicial processes.

He made the appeal recently while making a presentation at the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Enugu State, tagged: “Stand Out, Stand Tall”.

The NDDC boss said establishment of such a court will ensure that all cases and offences involving the agency were resolved in record time.

He said delayed court processes were among the key challenges hindering the commission’s effectiveness.

“We believe that if there is a special court to accelerate the trial of crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and kidnapping, it will serve as a strong deterrent”, he said.

He stressed that the continued detention of suspects in prison for prolonged periods while awaiting trial was no longer helpful or beneficial to the commission, hence the urgent need for a special court to handle the agency’s cases.

Ogbuku also made a further appeal for the people of the Niger Delta to take advantage of the region’s abundant blue economy resources.

According to him, once these opportunities are fully explored and appreciated, the case for the region’s development would gain broader acceptance.

He explained that the push for the blue economy had led the commission to embark on massive coastal road construction projects aimed at providing proper road networks across the region.

“We are also exploring the blue economy by encouraging youth participation through internship programmes where they can acquire skills”, he said.

He further disclosed plans for a local scholarship scheme to benefit qualified individuals in the oil-rich region, while announcing an end to favouritism in the commission’s operations.

Responding to the presentation, Senator Dino Melaye called on the NDDC boss to ensure that transparency becomes the guiding principle in the award of contracts, procurement, and other activities, so that the people of the Niger Delta can benefit maximally from the system.

Moody Scenes, Loud Celebrations Herald Result Of Rivers LG Polls

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Moody Scenes, Loud Celebrations Herald Result Of Rivers LG Polls

As expected, results of the local government elections held in Rivers State and conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) were officially released on Sunday, August 31, with winners and lovers emerging.

The scenario in Rivers State is divided into moody scenes in the camp of those who are not only isolated from the political developments in the state and those who still question the legality of the elections.

On the other hand, celebrations, pats on the back, and handshakes of joy and fulfilment have taken centre stage in the camps of those announced as winners.

The results as announced by RSIEC shows that the All Progressives Congress (APC) won in the chairmanship seat and all available councillorship seats in 20 local government areas, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won in three LGAs.

Here is a breakdown of the results as announced by RSIEC

1. Abua Odual (APC) Ofori Owoalabi -28755 votes

2. Ahoada East Solomon Achoma (APC)- 54509

3. Ahoada West Eugene Epelle (APC) -84125 votes

4. AKULGA Bob Fubara (APC) -63593 votes

5. Andoni -Lucky Promise (APC) -126181 votes

6. ASALGA- George Onegiyeofori (APC) -56383 votes

7. Bonny -Abinye Blessing Pepple (APC) -13543 votes

8. Degema Michael John Williams (APC) – 61536 votes

9. Eleme Obarilomate Ollor (APC) -77452 votes

10. Emohua Chidi Loyd (APC) – 114380

11. Etche Njoku Boniface (APC) 100649 votes

12. Gokana Dekor Confidence (APC)96478 votes

13. Ikwerre Charles Wobodo (APC) 62746

14. Khana Bariere Thomas (APC) 156027

15. Obio Akpor Gift Worlu (PDP) 328823

16. ONELGA shedrack Ogbogu (PDP) 51051))

17. Ogu Bolo Vincent Nemioboka (APC) 36374

18. Okrika Akuro Tobin (APC) 32285

19. Omuma Obasi Uchechwuku (APC) 38530

20. Opobo Nkoro Jame A. Jame (APC) 38822

21. Oyigbo Okechukwu Akara (APC) 101495

22. PHALGA Allwell Ihunda (PDP) 235054 votes

23. Tai Mbakpone Okpe (APC) 70,080 votes

2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles And Hand Of Divination

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2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles And Hand Of Divination

Nigerians are known as prayerful people. To them, by special prayers, the hand of Divination can alter bad situations and turn them to good. It is so even in football. To them, it is not all about skill, but divine providence which can provide the elixir, when all things fail.

 

In a few days, football loving Nigerians will know whether the country’s senior male national team, the Super Eagles, will revive their faltering 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign or finally dim the lights on the hopes of participating in the showpiece tournament scheduled to hold in North America.

 

The Super Eagles are expected to regroup in Uyo on September 1 ahead of crunch back-to-back qualifying matches against Rwanda on September 6 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium before travelling to Bloemfontein for a battle against Bafana Bafana of South Africa three days later.

 

These two matches are key to the team’s onward match, as any drop of points may further sink Nigeria into the abyss of a second consecutive absence on the world stage, having missed out in Qatar in 2022.

 

As it stands presently, Nigeria is six points short of South Africa and a point behind Rwanda and Benin Republic. With a likely three points deduction by the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) dangling over South Africa following Lesotho’s protest over the fielding of an ineligible player during their previous encounter, Nigeria’s Super Eagles need the victories in these crunch matches to get their campaign back on track.

 

But who would have imagined that Nigeria, once a continental powerhouse of football and respected as an emerging global football superpower, would be struggling to qualify for a World Cup tournament where Africa would be represented by nine countries.

 

It is indeed sad that Nigeria’s aura of dignified performance and results have faded into uncertainty. The country’s World Cup and Olympic football records from the glory years of 1994,1996, and 1998, to the resilience of 2014, built on discipline, hunger, and tactical intelligence, have now given way to mediocrity, lackadaisical attitude and unnecessary ego on the side of the current bunch of players and administrative culpability from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

 

Across the nation, hope and anxiety mix in the hearts of millions of football lovers as the Super Eagles are starring down the barrel of a World Cup qualifying disaster. The race for the ticket of Group C in the African qualifiers has become for Nigerians a nerve-wracking gamble. It hangs in the balance by a thread and the odds are no longer in their favour, all caused by some unexpected and uninspiring performances.

 

In the midst of the uncertainties, Super Eagles Head Coach, Eric Chelle, who has a 23-man squad approved for him by the NFF for these two qualifying games, remains upbeat about the chances of the team qualifying for the World Cup in 2026.

 

Nigeria’s qualifying campaign was already midway with Josè Peseiro and Finidi George respectively, managing two games without a win, before the engagement of Chelle,who has overseen two fixtures so far, securing a 2-0 victory against Rwanda in Kigali and a scandalous 1-1 against Zimbabwe in Nigeria.

 

Chelle, who could not inspire Nigeria’s team in the just concluded CHAN ’24 tournament in East Africa, is however optimistic that the Super Eagles will surprise Nigerians, especially in the remaining four matches.

 

“People have already written us off. I am not bothered by that. I am concentrating on preparing my players for the remaining four matches. I think that we are going to surprise a lot of people,” Chelle told sports writers recently.

 

Right now, the dice is cast. Nigerians expect nothing short of hunger and tactical intelligence from the 23-man all Europe-based stars called up for the epic battles.

 

Unfortunately, Victor Boniface, Nathan Tella, and Sadiq Umar, would not be playing any part in these two all-important matches.

 

The players on whose shoulders the task of bringing the World Cup campaign back on track as released by the NFF are captain William Troost-Ekong, striker Victor Osimhen and also includes midfielders Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika and Wilfred Ndidi.

 

Among the forwards are Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Cyriel Dessers and Moses Simon.

 

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali returns between the sticks, supported by defenders Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, among others.

 

Greece-based goalkeeper Adeleye Adebayo returns, with Unity Cup stars Felix Agu and Benjamin Fredericks also named in the squad.

 

Forwards Christantus Uche and Tolu Arokodare earned call-ups after strong performances in June’s friendly against Russia in Moscow.

 

Full squad:

 

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa Utd, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece).

 

Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England); Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England).

 

Others are, Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France); Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium).

 

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy).

 

Also included are Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium) and Christantus Uche (Getafe, Spain).

 

Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey).

 

Others are Simon Moses (Paris FC, France); Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, Scotland); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)

 

By: Celestine Ogolo

Artificial Intelligence And Future Of Software Engineers In Nigeria

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Artificial Intelligence And Future Of Software Engineers In Nigeria

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way the world works. From apps that can write essays to algorithms that can detect fraud, AI is reshaping industries at a speed not seen before.

In Nigeria, where the tech sector has grown rapidly in the past decade, software engineers are beginning to feel the effects. For many, AI represents both a challenge and an opportunity that will define their future in the digital economy. Nigeria’s Tech community is growing rapidly.

Nigeria has established itself as Africa’s leading tech hub, with Lagos often called the “Silicon Valley of Africa.” Startups like Flutterwave, Paystack, and Andela have proven that young Nigerian talents can build solutions with global impact.

Thousands of engineers now work locally and remotely for companies across the world. But the rise of tools such as Cursor, Windsurf, GitHub Copilot, etc, means the way software is written is shifting quickly.

Nigerian developers must now ask: How do we stay relevant in a world where machines can also code? Again, it should be noted that AI brings opportunities. These opportunities are as follows: From personal experience working with cursor, I was able to build out an MVP in the space of two days. Now, note that it was not so straightforward because I had to correct a lot of things, and with my experience, it was easy, but still, the speed was incredible. An MVP of that quality would normally take a minimum of 6 months with a minimum of 4 engineers; crazy right?.

For engineers who embrace AI, the future holds promise; namely,

● Higher productivity: AI-powered coding assistants reduce time spent on repetitive tasks and help engineers focus on creative problem-solving.

● New career paths: Specializations in AI, data science, and machine learning are opening up global job opportunities.

● Lower barriers to innovation: With AI, small Nigerian teams can build products at global standards without needing massive resources.

● Global competitiveness: Remote work and global demand for AI expertise means skilled Nigerians can access opportunities worldwide.

There are, however, challenges on the Horizon. Alongside these opportunities, AI also poses real concerns, such as:

● Job displacement: Entry-level coding roles may shrink as AI takes over basic tasks.

● Skills gap: Many Nigerian universities still teach outdated curricula, leaving engineers to self-learn modern AI skills.

● Infrastructure limitations: Access to affordable internet, electricity, and powerful computing hardware is still a challenge.

● Tougher competition: As AI takes on routine coding, Nigerian engineers must compete with highly skilled professionals globally.

AI is unlikely to replace engineers entirely. Instead, it will redefine what engineering looks like. Nigerian developers will act more as problem solvers and designers who work alongside AI tools rather than being replaced by them. To thrive in this new reality, engineers must:

● Continuously learn and update their skills.

● Build expertise in areas where human creativity and judgment are essential.

● Push for stronger policies, research investment, and infrastructure that support AI development in Nigeria.

Another issue at stake is the Global Policy and Ethics Dimension. Beyond coding, AI raises questions about ethics, privacy, and policy. Nigerian engineers who understand these issues will be better positioned to shape how AI is deployed responsibly in local industries.

With rising concerns over data misuse and algorithmic bias, there is a growing demand for experts who can balance innovation with accountability. As a result, Nigerian engineers have some vital roles to play.

Nigerian Startups also have a role to play because AI also creates opportunities for Nigerian startups to lead in areas unique to the African market.

From agricultural tech that predicts crop yields to Fintech solutions that detect fraud in mobile money transactions, Nigerian engineers can build AI products that address local problems while competing globally.

Startups that integrate AI early will have an advantage over those relying only on traditional methods. Furthermore, there should be collaboration and community growth.

The rise of AI highlights the importance of community. Nigerian developers can not afford to work in isolation. Tech communities, bootcamps, and peer-learning groups must evolve to include AI literacy, research collaborations, and mentorship programs.

By working together, Nigerian engineers can share knowledge, build confidence, and ensure that no one is left behind in this transition.

In conclusion, Artificial Intelligence is both a challenge and an opportunity for Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. While some roles may disappear, new and more advanced ones will emerge.

The engineers who succeed will be those who adapt quickly and use AI to enhance their work. AI will not replace Nigerian engineers, but Nigerian engineers who use AI will replace those who do not. The future is already here, and the choice lies in how Nigeria prepares its software talent to meet it.

By: Amakiri Samuel Bomate

Amakiri Samuel Bomate is a Senior Software Engineer

IAUE Grants Amnesty To Academic Deficient Students

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IAUE Grants Amnesty To Academic Deficient Students

The Senate of the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, has approved an amnesty programme to facilitate the graduation of students who have been held back due to failed final-year courses.

 

The approval was given during the statutory Senate meeting which held on Thursday August 28, 2025 at the postgraduate hall of the University.

 

The programme, applicable to all categories of students from the 2016 academic session onwards, aims to clear the backlog of students who have been unable to graduate due to a few failed courses.

 

A press statement signed by Dr. Ngozi Okiridu,

Public Relations Officer of the institution indicated that affected students will undergo lectures for a few weeks, followed by examinations on the failed courses.

 

The ICT Director, Professor Nathaniel Ojekudo, is expected to inform the Deans of Faculties and Heads of Departments about the programme schedule, which will thereafter be communicated to affected students.

 

Also, as a fall-out of the meeting, Senate Chairman and Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, encouraged the Faculty of Agriculture to engage in full-scale farming in order to generate funds, while tasking the Departments of Entrepreneurship and Human Resource Management to organize programmes and short courses, and provide consultancy services capable of generating funds for the institution.

 

Professor Onuchuku warned lecturers against forcefully compelling students to purchase specific textbooks as it was not a policy of the university.

 

As part of his academic and administrative leadership, the Vice Chancellor of IAUE, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, will kick-start the University Lecture, as proposed by Professor Chibuzor Chile Nwobueze, Associate Dean of the Postgraduate School.

The lecture series which will focus on contemporary issues and aimed at improving the university and academic environment.

 

The Director of Academic Planning, Professor Joseph Kinanee on the other hand, requested that professors submit their names for inclusion in the NUC database, which will be used for accreditation purposes.

 

Meanwhile, the university is working round the clock to ensure that the resource verification for twelve programmes of the University scheduled for September 2025 by the National Universities Commission (NUC) records huge success.

Also those for full accreditation status have been directed to ensure compliance with the NUC yardstick and guidelines for a successful exercise. The institution further requested all professors in its employ to submit their names for inclusion in the NUC database for accreditation purposes.

 

Before its adjournment, Senate approved the semester results from various faculties including that of Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) and Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES).

PIA: Diri, Lokpobiri Lament Host Communities Inability To Access Funds

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PIA: Diri, Lokpobiri Lament Host Communities Inability To Access Funds

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Duoye Diri and the Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri have lamented the inability of host communities of oil companies and facilities to access funds for the development of communities through the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), describing the Act as “a time bomb” that could trigger fresh crisis in the Niger Delta.

 

Speaking separately at the triple celebrations of a book launch, 60th birthday and 25th marriage anniversary of the chairman of Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers, King Bubaraye Dakolo in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, both officials bemoaned the hurdles which communities face accessing funds as host communities of oil companies and facilities.

 

Governor Diri said the only way to resolve conflicts in the Niger Delta oil-producing communities was for the federal government to take a fresh look at the PIA.

 

The governor spoke in reaction to a comment by the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who said litigations in host communities had made it impossible for them to access monies in the Petroleum Industry Trust Fund meant for their development.

 

Governor Diri revealed that when the PIA was a bill during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the state had argued in a presentation it made that excluding the oil-producing states and local councils from administration of host communities, as provided in the then bill, would result in crisis.

 

He said, “The PIA, as it was designed, is a time bomb because the Federal Government cut off states and local government councils to deal directly with communities. It is my submission that the percentage due to oil companies, conspiratorially reduced from 10 per cent to 3 per cent be reviewed.

 

“I also call on the Federal Government to immediately review the aspect where states and local government were excluded from administering what is due to the communities.

 

“The states and councils are closer to the communities and it was wrong to have excluded them from the administration of these communities. The current situation is a recipe for crisis and I urge President Bola Tinubu to review it.”

 

While congratulating Dakolo, who is the Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, on the launch of his books, “The Pirates of the Gulf” and “The Kingfisher,” Diri described the monarch as a rare king, and urged the younger generation to see him as a role model.

 

 

He also described Dakolo as a literary giant, who took up the challenge after his ordeal at the Nigerian Defence Academy to fight injustice in the Niger Delta, emphasising that he has made positive impact on the Ijaw nation and the country as a whole.

 

Governor Diri launched the books with the sum of N100 million on behalf of the state government, and further directed the Ministry of Education to adopt “The Kingfisher” as part of the state’s secondary school curriculum.

 

“King Dakolo has served Bayelsa and Ijaw nation. Dakolo and l had been together in the Ijaw struggle. He is sound and very intelligent. He is a literary giant and l urge our youths of the ljaw nation to see him as their role model.”

 

In his remarks, Lokpobiri, who was chairman at the occasion described Dakolo as a man of many parts and a visionary leader and congratulated him on the various feats attained.

 

He lauded the monarch for his advocacy for a better deal for the Niger Delta people through his literary works, and equally called on operators of illegal refineries to desist from their activities as these contribute to the degradation of the environment.

 

Lokpobiri also bemoaned oil communities’ inability to access the trust fund for their development as a result of the crisis and litigations emanating from them.

 

The chief launcher and Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, equally commended Dakolo for documenting his experience, which he said would create more enlightenment about the struggles of the Niger Delta.

 

Ogbuku, who said the commission would buy as many copies of the two and distribute to schools in the region, expressed optimism that the gesture would help to promote education.

 

“The Pirates of the Gulf” was reviewed by Dr. Ebidenyefa Nikade, while Air Vice Marshal Kurotimi Obidake, representative of Major General Solomon Udounwa, reviewed the “Kingfisher”

Mixed Reactions Trail Rivers LG Polls

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Mixed Reactions Trail Rivers LG Polls

The people of Rivers State and residents alike went to the polls on Saturday, August 30 2025 to elect chairmen and councillors for the 23 local government areas and 319 wards of the state.

 

The hallmark of the election was low voter turnout, which many attributed to lack of faith in the process, as the result of the election was already a fait accompli designed to favour members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) aligned to Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

 

It was gathered that the political structure of the Minister in both the APC and PDP would produce all the candidates that would be declared winners at the polls.

 

It was further learnt that the Tony Okocha-led APC would produce 20 council chairmen and all councillors while the three LGAs of Obio/Akpor, Port Harcourt City, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni would be won by PDP.

 

Polling units across the state reported minimal voter turnout, with many stations nearly empty.

The poor turnout was sparked by claims by segments of the society that the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok Ete Ibas, a retired Navy Admiral, does not have the legal mandate to oversee elections, leading to widespread disillusionment among

 

Meanwhile some segments of the society have commended the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) following what they described as “the successful conduct of the local government elections” across the state on Saturday, with reports from polling units pointing to a peaceful and orderly process.

 

The commission was responsible for conducting the elections across the 23 LGAs, 319 wards, and 4,442 polling units in Rivers State.

 

 

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), visited some areas to assess the conduct of the election. At Okporowo Community in Emohua LGA where he and his entourage monitored the process, the Sole Administrator expressed satisfaction with the turnout of voters for the exercise, which he described as credible, free, and fair.

 

He was accompanied by the Sole Administrator of Emohua Local Government, Barr. Franklin Ajinwo. Together, they toured several polling units in Ogbakiri, interacting with voters and officials while ensuring everything went on smoothly and transparently.

 

Senator Magnus Abe, after casting his vote in Bera Ward 16 in Gokana LGA chairmanship and councillorship candidates, described the election as laying the foundation for the proper return of democracy in the state. He admitted initial fears, but commended the orderly and normal conduct of the process.

 

 

Also, the member representing Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Cyril Hart was at his Polling Unit in in Bonny local government area to perform his civic responsibility.

 

Shortly after casting his vote, he ssid, “I wish to thank RSIEC for a seamless process, the security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Navy FOB Bonny, for ensuring the safety of the voters along the Riverine wards.

 

“I shall send in a formal appreciation letter for a job well done to serve as a morale booster.”

 

“Special thanks to everyone who came out to participate in this all-important election, he concluded.

 

 

From Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, voters showed enthusiasm and conducted themselves in a peaceful and orderly manner in all the wards.

 

A political leader in the area, Amaopusenibo Ben G. Daminabo, who spoke with The Atlantic Bell, applauded the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and well-coordinated conduct of the local government elections in the area.

 

Addressing newsmen shortly after casting his ballot at Diepiri Unit 3, Ward 3, Opobo/Nkoro LGA, Amaopusenibo Daminabo commended both the electoral body and the electorate for their commitment to a credible process, noting that the orderly turnout reflected the collective resolve of the people to uphold democracy with dignity and mutual respect.

 

He emphasized that the peaceful atmosphere in Opobo/Nkoro was a testimony to the maturity of its people and their desire to see democracy thrive. While appreciating RSIEC’s role, he urged citizens to remain committed to peace and unity, stressing that elections must not be seen as a “do-or-die” contest, but rather as a democratic exercise that strengthens the electoral institutions.

 

Amaopusenibo Daminabo further called on all contestants to demonstrate true sportsmanship by accepting the outcome of the polls in good faith.

“What matters most is the progress and development of our people. We must all move forward together in unity,” he remarked.

 

RSIEC adopted a seamless process by ensuring the early arrival of officials and voting materials at polling units, while security personnel provided protection for residents and maintained law and order, keeping the exercise free from major disruptions.

 

The APC Chairmanship candidate for Bonny LGA, Amasenibo Hon. Abinye Blessing Pepple also commended RSIEC for what he described as “a well-organized and credible exercise.”

 

Ahead of the election, RSIEC had urged Rivers people to come out in their numbers to peacefully exercise their civic duty. The Chairman of the commission, Michael Odey, had advised eligible voters to conduct themselves in line with electoral guidelines and assured the public of adequate security to protect lives and property.

 

To reinforce this assurance, security agencies staged a “show of force” on Friday, which took off from the Rivers State Police Command Headquarters in Port Harcourt. The convoy, featuring patrol vehicles from the military and paramilitary, moved through major streets in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor local government areas.

Stakeholders, including community leaders and political party representatives, acknowledged the efforts in conducting the elections.

By: Miracle Chidinma Amaechi

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