All is now set for the 3rd International Conference organised by the Institute of Geosciences and Environmental Management (IGEM) of the Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Port Harcourt in collaboration with UNITAR-CIFAL, Nigeria, with the theme, “Green and Safe Transport: Integrated Fleet Disaster Risk and Sustainable Management.”

The four-day conference, scheduled to hold from April 7 to April 10, 2026, will take place at the Senate Building,of the university in Nkpolu, Port Harcourt, bringing together key stakeholders across the transport, maritime, logistics, and environmental sectors.

Participants are expected to arrive on April 7 for the opening ceremony which takes place the next day. The Technical Sessions and Paper Presentations will take place on April 9, while departure is on April 10, 2026.

Participants are expected from a wide spectrum of industries, including operators in air, land, and sea transport systems, as well as scholars, researchers, and professionals from oil and gas, logistics, and maritime sectors. Government agencies such as the Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigerian Inland Water Ways,relevant ministries are also billed to attend.

The Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, will serve as Chief Host, while the Director of IGEM and UNITAR-CIFAL Nigeria Focal Person, Professor A. E. Gobo, is the host.
A former Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Blessing Didia, will chair the occasion.

The keynote address will be delivered by Sunday Akuru, Management Services(Fleet) and the United Nations World Food Programme, Abuja. Lead paper presentations will be anchored by Estrella Merlos, Deputy Director,CIFAL Global Network and Global Head of Transport and Mobility at UNITAR-CIFAL, who also serves as co-host of the conference.

Other notable speakers include Hon. Dr. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, Bayelsa State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, and Dr. Rita Owase, a logistics and fleet management specialist with extensive experience supporting United Nations operations.

The conference will be declared open by Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, with Bayelsa State Governor, Duoye Diri also expected in attendance.

Speaking ahead of the event, Chairman of the Conference Organising Committee, Professor K. E. Okpara, expressed confidence in the preparedness of the organisers, assuring participants of a hitch-free and impactful gathering. He commended the management of the university and the UNITAR-CIFAL representative, Mrs. Ihuoma Njemanze, who also serves as Co-Chairman, for their strong support.

Goodwill messages are expected from major stakeholders in maritime and transportation services, further underscoring the conference’s relevance to sustainable development and safety in mobility systems.

The conference builds on an existing partnership between IGEM and UNITAR-CIFAL, which was strengthened following the hoisting of the UNITAR-CIFAL flag at the university. The collaboration previously facilitated international training exchanges, including a fleet safety workshop held in Abuja last year that attracted participants from six countries.

With the 2026 conference poised to commence, organisers say the event marks a significant step in consolidating gains from past engagements and advancing global discourse on sustainable and disaster-resilient transport systems.

The APC National Vanguard has urged Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support a second-term bid for Siminalayi Fubara, pointing to what it described as measurable development strides across Rivers State.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the group’s National President, Gbenga Salam, said the call followed an extensive assessment tour of infrastructure and public service projects executed by the Fubara administration.

According to the group, its recommendation was anchored on performance rather than partisan alignment, stressing that governance outcomes should take precedence in a state as economically strategic as Rivers.

“We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the APC to support the continuity of Governor Siminalayi Fubara beyond his current tenure, in recognition of his commitment to development, prudent resource management and people-focused governance,” the statement read.

The group disclosed that its delegation inspected multiple project sites, including road construction and urban renewal initiatives, noting that the scale and spread of the projects reflect a deliberate effort to extend development beyond major urban centres to underserved communities.
“Our findings reveal a government that is not only active but intentional in its development agenda.

The execution of capital projects across various parts of Rivers State demonstrates a clear understanding of the needs of the people and a commitment to addressing them,” Salam said.

It also commended what it described as prudent financial management, noting that the projects reviewed showed evidence of careful planning and efficient allocation of resources.

“At a time of economic pressure nationwide, it is commendable that the Rivers State government has deployed its resources to deliver visible and impactful development without signs of fiscal recklessness,” the group added.

The APC National Vanguard further observed that despite political tensions in the state, the Fubara administration has remained focused on governance, sustaining project execution and service delivery.

It argued that such stability is critical for sustained development and should be preserved.

“Leadership must be judged by results. In Rivers State, there is clear evidence of progress — projects that are not only announced but executed, and policies that translate into tangible benefits for citizens,” Salam noted.

The group warned that a break in leadership continuity could stall ongoing projects and reverse gains already recorded, stressing the need to consolidate current achievements.

“Rivers State is at a pivotal stage where continuity will enable the completion of ongoing initiatives and deepen development gains. Supporting Governor Fubara for a second term is in the best interest of the people,” the statement said.

The group also reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, expressing confidence in his administration’s economic and governance reforms, and urged Nigerians to sustain backing for efforts aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening public institutions.

It concluded by calling on political actors to prioritise development and public interest above partisan considerations, insisting that governance should be guided by performance and accountability.

It began as a formal gathering, distinguished guests, policymakers, academics, and young leaders seated in quiet anticipation. But what unfolded at the Rivers State University was far more than ceremony. It became a powerful narrative of convergence, delivered through the voice and vision of the CIFAL Nigeria representative, Mrs Ihuoma Nzemanje.

Speaking with clarity and conviction, Mrs Nzemanje framed the launch of the ‘Voices of Experience’ at CIFAL Nigeria not as an isolated milestone, but as part of a larger global movement, rooted in collaboration, continuity, and purpose.

According to her, the moment demanded more than applause. It demanded alignment. “This is not just an event,” she emphasised. “It is a call to reflection, to celebration, and most importantly, to commitment—a commitment to building bridges between generations.”

At the centre of her address was CIFAL Nigeria itself, now fully operational at the Rivers State University. She traced its origins to the CIFAL Global Network, established in 2003 by UNITAR to advance the Sustainable Development Goals through training and multistakeholder collaboration across continents.

But for Mrs Nzemanje, institutions alone do not create change, people do.

She painted a vivid contrast between generations. On one side, she reflected, stand the women who fought relentlessly, often against entrenched systems, to secure rights now taken for granted. Their victories, she noted, were slow, deliberate, and deeply structural.

She referenced the landmark 1995 Beijing Conference as a defining example, where sustained advocacy led to the recognition of gender-based violence as a human rights issue. “It was painstaking work,” she said, “but it built frameworks that endure.”

On the other side stands Gen Z—digital natives who, in her words, are “impatient with slow progress and bold in their demands for justice.” She pointed to recent youth-led mobilisation in Nigeria, where activists used social media platforms to rally support for girls’ education in flood-affected communities, achieving in weeks what once took years.

“Their speed is remarkable,” she observed. “Their visibility is undeniable.”

Yet, rather than positioning these approaches in opposition, Mrs Nzemanje offered a unifying perspective.

“The future,” she said, “does not lie in choosing one over the other. It lies in bringing both together.”

She illustrated this through a compelling example from Kenya, where women elders who once championed land rights are now collaborating with youth climate activists. By combining lived experience with digital innovation, they are advancing both gender equality and climate action.

“This,” she noted, “is what progress looks like when generations work together.”

It is precisely this model that the Voices of Experience Forum seeks to institutionalise.

Describing the Forum as a “bridge,” Mrs Nzemanje outlined its purpose with precision: a platform for intergenerational dialogue, mentorship, and capacity building; a space where historical perspective informs modern strategy; and a hub where advocacy evolves into measurable outcomes.

She was particularly emphatic about the role of elders—not as distant figures of authority, but as active mentors. “They carry the memory of struggle,” she said. “They remind us that persistence is as important as speed.”

At the same time, she acknowledged the transformative energy of youth. “They challenge us to move faster, think differently, and act boldly.”
Between the two, she suggested, lies the true engine of sustainable development.

Her speech also paid tribute to women whose leadership continues to shape Nigeria and the wider world. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, she noted, exemplifies how activism can evolve into institutional reform. Oby Ezekwesili demonstrates the power of persistence amplified on a global stage, while Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti reminds us that transformative movements often begin at the grassroots.

Beyond Nigeria, she highlighted figures such as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Leymah Gbowee, and Graça Machel—women whose contributions underscore the global nature of the struggle for equality.

Closer to Rivers State, she recognised leaders like Ngozi Nma Odu and Henrietta Ogan, whose careers reflect the powerful intersection of education, governance, and community impact.
“These are not just stories,” Mrs Nzemanje said. “They are blueprints.”

Looking ahead, she outlined the Forum’s ambitions: to engage young changemakers, mobilise stakeholders, and position CIFAL Nigeria as a centre for inclusive leadership and sustainability. Through initiatives such as training programmes, exchanges, entrepreneurship platforms, and SDG-focused learning, the Centre will link local action to global priorities.

But it was her closing reflection that lingered most powerfully.
“Change is not a baton passed,” she said. “It is a bridge built.”

In that single line, Mrs Nzemanje captured the essence of the moment—not as a transfer of responsibility, but as a shared construction of the future.

At Rivers State University, that bridge is no longer an idea. Under her vision, it is taking shape—rooted in history, driven by youth, and strengthened by collaboration.

And if her words are any guide, the path forward is clear: the future will not be claimed by one generation, but built—together.

Rivers State Government has underscored the imperative of adopting data-driven strategies to reposition its health sector, with a strong focus on strengthening the healthcare workforce.

Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, made this known at a High-Level Health Labour Market Analysis (HLMA) advocacy meeting held at the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Wednesday.

She stressed that sustainable health sector reforms must be anchored on accurate and timely data, noting that the HLMA framework provides critical insights into employment trends, skill gaps, workforce needs, and emerging opportunities within the health ecosystem.

According to her, the initiative also promotes inclusive growth by identifying vulnerable populations and enabling targeted interventions that equip youths, women, and marginalised groups with relevant skills.

Odu reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration to evidence-based decision-making in reshaping the state’s healthcare system.

She said the administration’s Health4AllRivers Strategy reflects a comprehensive agenda focused on access, medical commodities, health security, financing, data management, and governance.

The deputy governor added that the state had already employed 2,000 health workers as part of efforts to bridge workforce gaps and improve service delivery.

She commended the Federal Ministry of Health for selecting Rivers State for the HLMA Technical Assistance Programme, describing the state as a model among its peers.

She also acknowledged the support of development partners, including the Global Fund and the Clinton Health Access Initiative, as well as the contributions of former Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh.

Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Prof. Justina Jumbo, described the meeting as a critical step towards strengthening governance, planning, and management of the health workforce. She disclosed that more than half of the state’s health personnel are deployed at the primary healthcare level, while about 30 per cent are in tertiary institutions, with fewer in the private sector.

Representing the Federal Ministry of Health, Mr. John Okobia said Rivers State emerged as the sole beneficiary of the technical assistance after a rigorous selection process involving all states and the Federal Capital Territory.

He explained that the initiative, which began at the federal level, is designed to provide a clear understanding of the supply and demand dynamics of healthcare workers, expressing confidence that it would enhance workforce planning outcomes.
In goodwill messages, representatives of the Clinton Health Access Initiative and the World Health Organization commended the state government’s openness to partnerships aimed at improving public health outcomes.

Also speaking, the State Project Coordinator for HLMA, Dr. Julienne Darlington Nwoke, said the programme is focused on strengthening leadership structures, defining clear objectives, and establishing implementation timelines for effective health workforce management.

She added that the initiative would support the creation of a coordinated framework involving the Ministry of Health, relevant ministries, departments and agencies, and development partners to drive sustainable improvements in the health sector.

The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP), Dr. Vetty Agala, has underscored the strategic importance of Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) gateway forum meetings in strengthening healthcare delivery across the state.

Agala made the assertion while declaring open the 2026 first quarter BHCPF gateway forum meeting in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

She explained that the forum provides a platform for critical self-assessment among implementing gateways, enabling stakeholders to interrogate service delivery, identify existing gaps, and develop practical solutions to enhance healthcare outcomes for residents.

According to her, the state health insurance agency is finalising modalities to commence facility-level enrolment under Phase II of the BHCPF, with an emphasis on integrating National Identification Number (NIN) data to expand coverage and improve access to services.

In a goodwill message, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics at the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, Dr. Dede Seiyeofori, urged participants to engage openly and share experiences that would aid in identifying operational challenges and proffering effective solutions.

Also speaking, Director of Planning, Research and Statistics at the Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr. Julienne Darlington-Nwoke, noted that the quarterly meetings have recorded steady improvements, describing them as critical platforms for evaluating the performance of various gateways, particularly in delivering care to vulnerable populations.

She commended RIVCHPP for its sustained efforts in expanding healthcare access through effective oversight of services at primary health centres across the state.

On his part, the State Epidemiologist and head of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) gateway in Rivers State, Dr. Victor L. Abiikor, described the meeting as impactful, noting that it enables gateway operators to assess performance and address identified gaps in service delivery.
He added that the forum is vital to public welfare, as BHCPF-funded services ensure that residents, especially the underserved, can access healthcare without direct financial burden.

Similarly, Chairman of Medical Officers of Health (MOH) in the state, Dr. Remmyson Keke, said the periodic reviews have strengthened primary healthcare services by enhancing supervision and encouraging efforts to close identified gaps.

The meeting brought together representatives of the four BHCPF gateways—REMSAS, Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board (RSPHCMB), NCDC, and RIVCHPP—as well as key development partners, including the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), among others.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has postponed his planned visit to Iperu, Ogun State, opting instead to travel to Jos, Plateau State, to commiserate with victims of recent attacks that claimed several lives.

According to a State House statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President’s decision underscores his concern over the security situation and his solidarity with affected communities.

Tinubu is expected to visit Plateau State to sympathise with the government and people over the killings before proceeding to Lagos to observe the Good Friday holiday.

The President will, however, resume his official engagements on Saturday, April 4, with a visit to Ogun State, where he will commission the Gateway International Cargo Airport in Iperu. He is also scheduled to inaugurate two commercial aircraft aimed at boosting import and export activities, as well as the new Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service and its operational vehicles.

He will subsequently return to Lagos to continue the Easter holiday and commission a number of infrastructure projects executed by the state government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The projects include the Ojota/Opebi Link Bridge, the Lagos State Geographic Information System building, a multi-agency complex named after the President, and a school complex.

Before returning to Abuja, Tinubu is billed to visit Bayelsa State on April 10 for an official state visit, where he will inaugurate key projects undertaken by Governor Douye Diri’s administration.

The visit to Bayelsa is expected to feature the commissioning of major infrastructure projects, including the Opokuma-Sabagreia-Polaku road and bridge, the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma bridge, a 60MW gas turbine at Elebele, Glory Drive Phase 3, and the New Yenagoa City–LNG road, among others.

The trip is seen as part of the President’s broader effort to deepen federal engagement with states and promote infrastructure development across the country.

Six Nigerian and international media freedom organisations have jointly written to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling for urgent action to address persistent attacks on journalists and to ensure accountability for perpetrators.

In a letter dated April 1, 2026, the groups urged the President to investigate abuses against the media both before and during his administration, while also pressing for reforms to laws that criminalise journalism.

The signatories include Angela Quintal of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Busola Ajibola of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), Churchill Otieno of the Africa Editors Forum (TAEF), Edetaen Ojo of Media Rights Agenda (MRA), Lanre Arogundade of the International Press Centre (IPC), and Musikilu Mojeed of the Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI).

The letter was prompted by recent remarks credited to Vice President Kashim Shettima, who reportedly suggested that journalists had not faced harassment since the current administration assumed office.

Describing the claim as inaccurate, the organisations expressed concern that such statements downplay “numerous and well-documented attacks on the press,” including arrests, harassment and violence allegedly involving security agencies.

They cited multiple reports indicating a troubling pattern. According to the groups, CPJ has documented cases of journalists being detained without warning and subjected to mistreatment, while others have faced prosecution over defamation and cybercrime allegations linked to their work.

They further noted that during the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, at least 56 journalists were reportedly assaulted or harassed, with security operatives allegedly firing bullets and tear gas in the direction of media personnel.

Additional data from the International Press Centre recorded 65 incidents of attacks on journalists in 2024, ranging from physical assault and intimidation to unlawful detention and threats to life. Media Rights Agenda, in its 2025 report, documented 86 cases of press freedom violations, while CJID said it had verified at least 231 attacks since President Tinubu took office in 2023.

The organisations also raised concerns over long-standing cases of impunity, recalling that since 1992, CPJ has documented the killing of at least 23 journalists in Nigeria, with several others missing and presumed dead.

They highlighted the case of journalist Onifade Emmanuel Pelumi, who died in 2020 after being seen in police custody, noting that his body has yet to be returned to his family despite repeated appeals.

The groups criticised what they described as a lack of meaningful government action to address these issues, warning that upcoming general elections in 2027 could heighten risks for journalists if urgent steps are not taken.

They urged the President to match official claims of support for the media with concrete measures, including holding perpetrators accountable, ending impunity, and ensuring the safety of journalists before, during and after the elections.
The organisations also called for the return of Pelumi’s remains to his family and for comprehensive reforms to safeguard press freedom in Nigeria.

They stressed that protecting journalists is essential to strengthening democratic governance, particularly as the country prepares for another electoral cycle.