The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Rivers State has called on Corps Members to take full advantage of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme as a pathway to economic self-reliance and sustainable growth.

The State Coordinator, Mr. Moses Oleghe, made the call during the flag-off of the SAED in-camp training for the 2026 Batch A Stream II Corps Members at the orientation camp in Nonwa-Gbam, Tai.

Oleghe described SAED as the “new face of the NYSC,” noting that the initiative is strategically designed to address unemployment, underemployment, and youth dependency in Nigeria. According to him, the programme aligns with the Scheme’s core objective of fostering self-reliance among young graduates.

He urged Corps Members to embrace modern, technology-driven skills that are in high demand both locally and globally.

These include digital marketing, graphic design, web development, data analytics, coding, content creation, e-commerce, and cybersecurity awareness.

“The opportunity provided by SAED is life-changing. It offers you the tools for economic emancipation if you are committed, disciplined, and intentional about adding value to yourselves,” he said.

Oleghe further assured participants of continuous post-camp support, stressing that those who remain dedicated to the programme would benefit from advanced training and mentorship opportunities.

In her remarks, the SAED Officer, Mrs. Carol Chukwu, cautioned Corps Members against neglecting the programme, urging them to seize the opportunity to secure their future.

“You must not fail yourselves and your families. Choose a skill aligned with your passion and pursue it diligently,” she advised.

Chukwu also highlighted the availability of financial support from institutions such as the Bank of Industry, Activate Success International Foundation, Wema Bank, and Unity Bank, noting that these organisations are committed to supporting young entrepreneurs in building sustainable businesses.

The flag-off ceremony was marked by a colourful turnout, with enthusiastic participation from Corps Members and camp officials.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have filed a suit against the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), challenging what they described as an “arbitrary, unconstitutional and unlawful” directive threatening sanctions against broadcast stations and presenters.

The suit, marked FHC/L/CS/854/2026 and filed before the Federal High Court in Lagos, seeks judicial interpretation of provisions of the 6th Edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code relied upon by the NBC to caution broadcasters over alleged misconduct, including expressing personal opinions as facts, intimidating guests, and failing to maintain neutrality.

The NBC had issued a formal notice citing what it termed a “sustained increase” in breaches of the broadcasting code across news and political programmes, warning that stations and presenters found culpable would face sanctions.

However, SERAP and NGE argued that the provisions invoked by the commission are vague, overly broad and inconsistent with constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression and media independence, as well as Nigeria’s obligations under international human rights law.

The plaintiffs are asking the court to declare that the cited sections of the broadcasting code violate Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right to receive and impart information and ideas without interference.

They are also seeking an interim injunction restraining the NBC and its agents from enforcing or imposing sanctions based on the disputed provisions pending the determination of the substantive suit.
In the originating processes, the groups maintained that journalistic work inherently includes analysis, commentary and value judgments, which are protected forms of expression in a democratic society.

“A blanket prohibition on the expression of personal opinions by anchors and presenters amounts to an impermissible restriction on freedom of expression,” the plaintiffs argued, adding that such limitations fail the legal tests of necessity and proportionality.

The suit further contends that the broadcasting code, being a subsidiary legislation, cannot override constitutional rights or exceed its enabling law, stressing that any provision inconsistent with the Constitution is null and void.

According to the plaintiffs, the NBC’s reliance on undefined standards such as “professionalism,” as well as ambiguous terms like “bullying” or “intimidation,” creates room for arbitrary enforcement and poses a chilling effect on journalists and media houses.

They also warned that the directive could encourage self-censorship, weaken the media’s watchdog role and undermine democratic discourse, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The plaintiffs argued that while preventing misinformation and ensuring fairness in broadcasting are legitimate aims, regulatory measures must be precise, lawful and proportionate, rather than sweeping restrictions that infringe on fundamental rights.

They are therefore urging the court to nullify the contested provisions of the broadcasting code and grant a perpetual injunction restraining the NBC from enforcing them.

Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), is leading a team of senior lawyers representing SERAP and NGE in the matter.
No date has yet been fixed for the hearing of the interim application or the substantive suit.

The Rivers State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to intensify efforts toward eliminating malaria, describing the disease as a persistent public health threat requiring coordinated action across sectors.

Speaking at the 5th Malaria Annual Health Colloquium held at Rivers State University on Friday, the Deputy Governor, Ngozi Nma Odu, said the administration is prepared to support initiatives that promote prevention, early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Represented by the Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme, Vetty Agala, Odu noted that malaria continues to pose a major challenge despite decades of interventions, stressing that innovation, research and strategic partnerships remain critical to ending the scourge.

She described the theme of the 2026 colloquium — “Accelerating Malaria Elimination Through Academic Innovation: Rivers State University Leads the Way” — as timely, highlighting the role of academia in shaping sustainable solutions and influencing policy direction.

Odu urged stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, the private sector and communities, to strengthen collaboration and scale up interventions aimed at reducing the burden of the disease.

In her remarks, Agala said malaria remains one of the most enduring health challenges in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, noting that its elimination is central to achieving universal health coverage.
Represented by the Director of Health Services at RIVCHPP, Barinem Dimkpa, she lamented the continued prevalence of malaria, particularly among vulnerable populations, and called for renewed commitment to evidence-based solutions.

According to her, the impact of malaria extends beyond health, affecting economic productivity and social wellbeing, while also exposing systemic gaps in healthcare delivery. She urged participants to advance practical, solution-driven ideas capable of accelerating progress.

Agala further reiterated the mandate of RIVCHPP to provide financial risk protection and ensure access to healthcare without financial hardship, encouraging residents to enrol in the scheme.

Earlier, the President of the Erens Ekprikpo Health Foundation, Ekprikpo Erens Spiff, called for deeper collaboration to reach underserved communities, expressing optimism that sustained partnerships and policy support could significantly reduce malaria incidence.

The Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Isaac Zeb-Obipi, represented by Fortune Amah Tariah, assured participants of the institution’s commitment to advancing research and innovation to tackle societal challenges.

He described universities as engines of innovation but cautioned that knowledge must translate into real-world impact to be meaningful.

The colloquium featured a keynote address by Boma Oboro and panel discussions involving health professionals, including former Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, Chidinma Oreh, who examined pathways to malaria elimination.

Stakeholders at the event agreed that stronger policies, increased funding and sustained collaboration would be key to achieving a malaria-free Rivers State.

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, has received an award from Vanguard Newspapers for his contributions to making the Commission an “Interventionist agency of the year.”

The award was conferred on Ogbuku at the 2025 Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, in recognition of his transformational leadership and NDDC’s impactful interventions across the Niger Delta region.

In his opening remarks at the ceremony, the former Minister of State Petroleum Resources, and Chairman of the occasion, Mr Odein Ajomugobia, said: “Tonight, we gather to recognise individuals and organisations whose contributions have, in different ways, shaped our society and influenced the course of our national life.

In a citation for Ogbuku and the NDDC, the Vanguard Award Committee described the NDDC as an institution that is driving the transformation of Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta.

According to the committee, “For many years, however, it faced widespread criticism over delays, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and projects that failed to deliver meaningful impact. Today, under the leadership of Samuel Ogbuku, a notable transformation is underway, earning the Commission recognition as the Interventionist Agency of the Year at the Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards.

“Since assuming office, Dr Ogbuku has repositioned the NDDC into a more focused, efficient, and impact-driven agency. A major priority has been delivering critical infrastructure that directly improves everyday life. Across several states, previously stalled road and bridge projects have been completed, restoring connectivity and boosting economic activity.

“Electricity, once a persistent challenge in the region, is also receiving renewed attention. Strategic projects, including power lines and substations in Ondo and Edo States, have restored electricity to communities that endured years without a reliable supply. These interventions are not only infrastructural achievements but also vital drivers of economic productivity and improved living conditions.

“The Commission’s ‘Light Up the Niger Delta’ initiative further demonstrates its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Thousands of solar-powered streetlights have been installed along roads, in markets, and in public spaces, enhancing security, extending business hours, and providing energy solutions. supporting local economies through renewable

“Beyond physical infrastructure, the NDDC has intensified its investment in human capital. The revitalised Foreign Post-Graduate Scholarship Programme has enabled thousands of students to access improved schools and libraries, and to study abroad, while local educational initiatives have provided digital learning resources.

The committee stated further: “Central to this transformation is strengthened governance. Improved transparency, digital procurement systems, and inclusive stakeholder engagement have rebuilt public trust and ensured that projects meet real community needs.

“This recognition by Vanguard reflects a reformed and responsive NDDC, an institution now defined by delivery, accountability, and a clear commitment to sustainable development in the Niger Delta.”

Welcoming guests to the event, the Editor of Vanguard, Mr Eze Anaba, said the ceremony was to honour men and women who have defied the odds. Recalling the rigorous process of nominating and selecting the awardees, Eze, who is also the President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE, urged the audience to draw inspiration from the achievements of the awardees.

He stated: “Tonight, we are not merely conferring awards; we are celebrating individuals whose vision, resilience, and hard work have built industries, driven economic growth and continued to inspire despite the numerous challenges facing the nation.”

Ogbuku described the honour as a call to greater service, reaffirming the NDDC’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth in the region.

He described the recognition as a reflection of the collective efforts of the NDDC Board, Management, and stakeholders in repositioning the Commission for more effective service delivery.

The leader of Rivers Women Unite for Tinubu, Chief Ashley Igbara, has unveiled a six-month skills acquisition programme aimed at empowering 6,000 women drawn from the 23 local government areas of Rivers State.

Chief Igbara said the initiative is designed to equip women with practical skills that will promote financial independence, strengthen family support systems, and encourage self-reliance.

According to her, the empowerment programme is being implemented in partnership with the City Boy Movement, the Renewed Hope Initiative, the University of Port Harcourt, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria.

She explained that participation in the programme is tied to civic responsibility, noting that all beneficiaries are required to possess Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), a condition she described as part of efforts to align empowerment with political participation.

Chief Igbara further revealed that beneficiaries will receive professional certification from the University of Port Harcourt upon completion of the training, while support will also be provided for business registration, including Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) documentation, free of charge through SMEDAN.

She added that beyond training, the initiative will provide accommodation and uniforms for participants, with expectations that the programme will expand to reach the targeted 6,000 women.

Also speaking, the Abua/Odual Local Government leader of the group, Umore Victoria Mugbolo, described the programme as a major platform for women’s transformation, stressing that empowering women through skills development would enhance financial stability and promote broader societal growth.

She called on women across Rivers State, both indigenous and non-indigenous, to take advantage of the opportunity, saying the initiative is aimed at building stronger women, stronger families and a stronger society.

In her remarks, Dr. Patience Nwangulu from Ahoada West commended the programme as a timely intervention for women who lack sustainable means of livelihood.

She noted that training in areas such as shoemaking, hairdressing and catering would create income opportunities for beneficiaries and improve household welfare.

She said the initiative would not only provide women with practical means of survival but also help many become productive contributors to the economy.