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Fubara’s Commitment to Affordable Housing Shines As Greater TAF City Estate Takes Off

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Fubara’s Commitment to Affordable Housing Shines As Greater TAF City Estate Takes Off

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to addressing the housing needs of the people with the commissioning of Phase One of the Greater TAF City Housing Estate, despite stiff opposition and over 90 court cases instituted to frustrate the project.

The housing estate, developed through the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority (GPHCDA), represents a bold and deliberate effort by the Fubara administration to decongest Port Harcourt metropolis and provide decent, affordable homes for middle-income earners.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Monday, December 15, 2025, Governor Fubara described the project as a clear demonstration of his administration’s resolve to put the welfare of the people above all obstacles.

“This project shows our determination to solve the housing challenge in Rivers State. Despite the difficulties and distractions, we remained focused because the interest of our people must always come first,” the Governor said.

He revealed that the project was confronted by more than 90 litigations from individuals claiming ownership of the land, a situation he said was deliberately orchestrated to stall development. According to him, overcoming these challenges underscores the administration’s seriousness in delivering critical infrastructure that directly improves living conditions.

Governor Fubara explained that Phase One is part of a broader vision to deliver 1,000 housing units initially, within an ambitious plan of 20,000 affordable homes across the axis.

“What we are commissioning today confirms that our promise to deliver housing is real. This is not just about buildings; it is about providing security, dignity and stability for our people,” he stated.

The Governor urged land allottees in the area to commence development without delay, stressing that accelerated growth of the estate would further ease housing pressure in the state.

He commended the private sector partner, Greater TAF Nigeria Limited, for its resilience and assured continued government support to ensure the full realization of the 20,000 housing units.

Governor Fubara also aligned the project with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Housing initiative, noting that Rivers State has allocated land for 1,000 federal housing units to complement the state’s efforts.

“When these units are completed alongside our remaining projects, access to housing will significantly improve, and with that, social stability and reduced crime will follow,” he said.

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Greater TAF Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mustapha Njie, praised Governor Fubara’s leadership, describing him as the driving force behind the success of the project. He noted that the public-private partnership model has earned continental recognition as Africa’s most innovative affordable housing PPP.

Also speaking, the Acting Administrator of GPHCDA, Barrister Bennett Chu, said the project reflects the Governor’s vision of providing hope and decent shelter for low- and middle-income earners.

The Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Hon. Wobodo Charles, lauded Governor Fubara for his consistent commitment to people-oriented projects, describing the housing estate as a testament to the Governor’s passion for improving the quality of life of Rivers people.

Health Insurance: NCoS Seeks NHIA Coverage For 81,000 Inmates Nationwide

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Health Insurance: NCoS Seeks NHIA Coverage For 81,000 Inmates Nationwide

The Controller General (CG) of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, has appealed to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to include inmates in its health insurance scheme.

Nwakuche made the appeal on Monday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the Director-General of NHIA, Dr Kelechi Ohiri.

Nwakuche said that the idea was to address persistent healthcare challenges and prevent avoidable deaths among inmates.

He said inmates as captives and underserved population deserve access to quality healthcare as legitimate citizens in the country.

The CG noted that the visit coincided with his one year in office, having been appointed in acting capacity by President Bola Tinubu, on Dec. 15, 2024.

This, he said, followed the retirement of his predecessor, adding that his appointment was later confirmed by the Senate in April as substantive Controller-General.

He stressed that the change in the CG’s name goes beyond nomenclature to reflect genuine correction, rehabilitation and welfare of both inmates and staff.

“In pursuing this mandate, I have paid visits to several agencies that directly and positively impact our Service, and the NHIA is a critical one. Although engagements had been discussed previously, official duties delayed the visit until now,” he said.

Nwakuche disclosed that the NCoS currently had about 81,000 inmates spread across over 250 custodial facilities nationwide, including women, persons living with disabilities and babies born within custodial centres.

He also stressed that inmates remained citizens of Nigeria and should not be excluded from national social protection programmes, particularly health insurance.

“One of our major challenges is access to healthcare.

“Often, when inmates are taken to hospitals, treatment is delayed because hospitals demand upfront payment before services can commence, and this has led to unfortunate fatalities,” he said.

The CG said his visit was to plead, urge and formally request that inmates be captured under NHIA’s operational framework.

This, he said, was whether as part of the vulnerable groups or any suitable insurance package, to ensure seamless access to healthcare through Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs).

“I am not a technical person in your space. I don’t know how it will be done, but these are my challenges and problems.

“These people are vulnerable because they do not have access to what those in the free world can easily access,” he said.

He appealed to NHIA’s management to technically examine ways of integrating inmates into its programmes to cater for their medical needs and restore hope to those in custody.

Nwakuche also highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate inmates into other national systems, revealing that the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) had agreed to commence the capture of inmates under the National Identification Number (NIN) scheme.

“If you don’t capture them and you only plan with people outside, when they are discharged, they distort the programmes already designed,” he said.

He disclosed that he had engaged the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the need to allow inmates to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

He noted that over 60 to 70 per cent of inmates were Awaiting Trial Persons presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

“When they are discharged or acquitted and come out, they are disenfranchised if they were not registered. They saw reason with us,” he said.

The CG added that he also plans to engage the Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC) to extend national data capture into custodial facilities, describing correctional centres as “a different world but still part of the same national agenda.”

Responding, the NHIA DG, Dr Kelechi Ohiri, pledged the agency’s commitment to work with the NCoS to ensure that inmates across the country were fully covered under the national health insurance framework.

Ohiri explained that the NHIA was established in 2022 following the enactment of the National Health Insurance Act, marking a significant shift from the former National Health Insurance Scheme, which largely focused on the public sector and selected population groups.

“The 2022 Act introduced a major policy change by expanding NHIA’s mandate beyond service provision to include the promotion and regulation of health insurance schemes across the country.

“The present administration remains strongly committed to achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians, with equity as a core principle.

“Equity is extremely important to us, and that is why we are very deliberate about populations that are affected and underserved,” he said.

Ohiri identified inmates as a vulnerable population and assured that NHIA would work closely with NCoS to develop a clear and workable framework to ensure their inclusion in the health insurance system.

He disclosed that both organisations would constitute joint teams to begin work on the collaboration immediately, with the goal of commencing implementation early in the new year.

“My team and your team will work together to put together a framework for ensuring that inmates in Nigeria are covered for their health needs,” he said.

“We are delighted and we look forward to this partnership. We will provide the support that we can,” he said.

Human Smuggling: FG Deepens Intelligence Capabilities, Dismantles Criminal Networks

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Human Smuggling: FG Deepens Intelligence Capabilities, Dismantles Criminal Networks

The Federal Government has pledged to further strengthen Nigeria’s intelligence architecture and border security framework to dismantle organised human smuggling syndicates exploiting vulnerable migrants.

The Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service NIS, Mrs Kemi Nandap, said this on Monday in Abuja at the inauguration of the 2025 Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Week.

Nandap was represented by the Deputy Comptroller General, (DCG), in charge of Works and Logistics, Mrs Ada James Umanah.

Declaring the event open, Nandap said the FG was intensifying a multi-layered response to emerging trends in migrant smuggling that pose serious risks to human life and national security.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the Service, pledging that the NIS would continue to deepen border security and intelligence capabilities.

She also assured that the service would dismantle smuggling networks and prosecute offenders, and protect migrants. especially women and children from exploitation,

She added that the Service would also strengthen domestic and international partnerships, and uphold the dignity and human rights of migrants regardless of status.

Nandap said Nigeria, as a country of origin, transit and destination for migrants, could not afford to ignore the growing sophistication of smuggling networks.

This, she said, was why they now rely heavily on digital platforms, encrypted communication, falsified documents and transnational criminal collaborations.

She warned that migrants were increasingly exposed to grave dangers, including trafficking, extortion, sexual exploitation, violence and death, particularly along irregular desert and sea routes.

“The activities of smugglers threaten border integrity, public safety and internal security.

“The NIS, with the support of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has adopted a technology-driven and intelligence-led strategy to combat the menace.

“The Service has strengthened surveillance across land, sea and air borders through the deployment of a Command and Control Centre that mirrors nationwide operations, alongside the Migration Information and Data Analysis System.

“Also, Advanced Passenger Information Systems, Passenger Name Records, e-gates at international airports and Huawei-powered e-border solutions installed at more than 144 border locations nationwide,”she maintained.

Nandap added that Nigeria had continued to deepen cooperation with regional and international partners, including (ECOWAS), the African Union,(AU), International Organisation for Migration (IOM), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime,(UNODC) among others.

This, she said, were to enhance capacity building, intelligence sharing, joint investigations and safe return programmes, while bilateral agreements with transit and destination countries have improved early warning systems and cross-border law enforcement.

“The Service had scaled up public sensitisation to counter the false narratives used by smugglers to lure young Nigerians, revealing that more than 579,000 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members were sensitised this year alone.

“This is in addition to widespread outreach in border communities, schools, transport unions and youth associations across the country.

“The campaigns focus on exposing digital recruitment tactics, fake job offers abroad and the importance of safe, orderly and regular migration channels,” she emphasised.

The NIS boss, however, stressed that the fight against migrant smuggling required collective responsibility.

She called on families, communities, traditional institutions, civil society, the media and development partners to work together to protect vulnerable populations and secure Nigeria’s borders against criminal exploitation.

Earlier, the Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG)in charge of Migration Directorate, Mrs Ngozi Odikpo, described the weeklong activities as an opportunity to reinforce national and global commitment to safe migration.

Odikpo said that the Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Week would climax on December 18, which marks the International Migrants Day.

She also expressed appreciation to international partners for their technical support and capacity-building interventions, assuring that the NIS remains committed to sustaining strong partnerships

This, she said, would be in pursuit of safe, orderly and regular migration, border security and national development.

The theme of the event is, “Smuggling of Migrants: Emerging Trends, Realities and National Response,”

We have Degraded Terrorists’ Operational Capacity, Says Defence Minister

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We have Degraded Terrorists’ Operational Capacity, Says Defence Minister

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, says that the operational capacity of terrorist groups, bandits, and other criminal elements is significantly degraded across multiple theatres.

Musa said this at the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025 which held on Monday at Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks, Lagos State.

The minister said that the gains reflected the courage of troops, improved planning and execution, as well as the growing impact of coordinated operations conducted within a joint and multi-agency framework.

“The reality remains that no single service, institution or individual can address today’s security challenges alone.

“Success can only be sustained through unity of effort, joint operations, intelligence sharing, coordinated planning and close collaboration among security agencies.

“As we pursue operational success, we must never lose sight of the human dimension of military service,” he said.

Musa said that the conference remained a vital strategic forum for the Nigerian Army to review its operational posture, assess its readiness and professionalism, and align its future direction with national security priorities.

“The importance of this conference cannot be overstated, particularly in light of the complex and evolving security environment confronting our nation.

“Nigeria continues to face a combination of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, transnational crime and other asymmetric threats that demand sustained strategic focus, clarity of purpose and adaptive leadership,” he said.

The minister said that security remained a central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

“Accordingly, the Ministry of Defence will continue to provide strategic direction, policy support and capability development to ensure that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain professional, responsive and future‑ready.

“The minister will also strengthen institutional frameworks that promote accountability and effectiveness,” he said.

Musa honoured the memory of gallant personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation, and whose courage continued to inspire collective resolve.

He was particularly pleased to acknowledge the family of late former COAS, Lt.-Gen. as well as Brig.-Gen. Uba and all personnel who had made sacrifices in the line of duty.

“In addition, we recognise our wounded personnel and the families who bear the enduring physical, emotional and psychological costs of service.

“Their welfare, medical care and long-term support remain a sacred obligation that must be upheld without compromise,” the minister said.

Musa commended the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu for his vast operational experience, particularly in the North-East, and for the leadership he continued to provide.

“However, experience alone is not enough; we must continually ask ourselves what more can be done differently to decisively defeat enemies of the state.

“We must evolve new strategies and remain proactive, innovative and resolute,” the minister said.

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu said that there could be no enduring progress without security, and no security without a capable, disciplined and professional military.

He said that today’s Nigerian Army operated in an era defined by complex and evolving threats—terrorism, insurgency, banditry, transnational crime and other non-traditional security challenges.

“Addressing these threats requires intelligence-led operations, adaptability and robust inter-agency cooperation.

“Encouragingly, the Nigerian Army has continued to evolve in response to these realities.

“I have observed with pride the ongoing restructuring and modernisation of the Army, the introduction of new platforms, improved training doctrines and a renewed emphasis on professionalism,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor said that these efforts clearly reflected an institution that was deliberately repositioning itself to meet the demands of a modern, constitutionally guided force.

He commended the COAS for the purposeful leadership and strategic direction he continued to provide in steering the Nigerian Army towards greater effectiveness, operational competence and institutional development.

“I must also acknowledge the invaluable contribution of Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army to the relative peace and stability we continue to enjoy in Lagos State.

“Through sustained operations, joint security initiatives and strong civil-military relations, the Division has played a critical role in maintaining public order and fostering trust between our citizens and those entrusted with their protection.

“This partnership is deeply valued by our administration,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He said that the connection between security and development was simple but profound because markets functioned because security existed.

“Businesses invest because stability is assured. Citizens go about their daily lives because vigilant men and women stand guard in defence of peace.

“These connections may often go unseen, but they are undeniable therefore, the strength of the army lies not only in its firepower, but also in its professionalism and unwavering respect for constitutional authority.

“These values remain essential to sustaining public trust and strengthening democracy,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu said that the Lagos state government remained steadfast in its support for the Nigerian Army, both within the state and beyond.

The COAS said that the conference provided an invaluable platform for strategic reflection, robust engagement and the exchange of ideas on how best to strengthen civil-military cooperation.

“The gathering will also help deepen inter-agency collaboration and enhance our collective response to security challenges confronting our nation,” he said.

Shaibu said that the Nigerian Army was deliberately transforming into a more professional, adaptive and technology-driven force, capable of effectively addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.

“Each officer and soldier of the army are a critical stakeholder in this transformation.

“I am confident that, within a short period, Nigerians will increasingly feel the positive impact of these reforms on national security and stability.

“Therefore, I urge us to remain guided by patriotism, professionalism and a shared commitment to the peace, progress and prosperity of our dear country,” he said.

The COAS thanked President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Shaibu said that Tinubu’s sustained support especially in the areas of personnel welfare, equipment modernisation, training and institutional reforms had significantly strengthened their capacity to respond to contemporary and emerging security challenges.

Rivers: INEC Registers 99,885 Persons, Displays Voters Register For Verification

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Rivers: INEC Registers 99,885 Persons, Displays Voters Register For Verification

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers, has commenced the display of preliminary voter register for verification and reporting of inaccuracies.

Prof. Gabriel Yomere, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, made the disclosure while briefing newsmen in Port Harcourt on Monday.

The REC disclosed that the commission had recorded a total of 99,885 completed registrations since the commencement of the in-person Continuous Voter Registration exercise in Rivers.

“This figure is still tentative, pending its verification through the Automated Biometric Identification System, so we urge members of the public to participate in the exercise,” he said.

Represented by Mrs Angela Ebhodaghe, the Administrative Secretary, Yomere said that the display exercise was part of efforts to ensure a credible and accurate voter register.
He said that the exercise would run between December 15 and 21 to allow members of the public to scrutinize the register and report any inaccuracies or inconsistencies.

“Members of the public are expected to report cases of omission, incorrect entry, names of deceased persons, underage or illiterate individuals, and ineligible persons.

“Registrants and members of the public are to take advantage of this opportunity to verify their details and report to the commission,” he said.

The commissioner said that the display exercise was ongoing nationwide, and that all the 23 local government areas in Rivers would be covered.

The INEC official urged the media to partner the commission to disseminate credible and accurate information about the exercise.

“We rely on the media to inform the public of the commission’s policies and activities, and to promote public confidence in the electoral process,” he said.

Former President Jonathan Joins NDDC MD for Late Ayakoro Monarch’s Burial

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Former President Jonathan Joins NDDC MD for Late Ayakoro Monarch’s Burial

The Former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has described the late Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro Community, King Righteous Inegbagha, as a man whose name reflects his character.

Jonathan made the remark at the weekend when he joined, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, during the funeral service of the late monarch held in Ayakoro Community, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

In a statement signed and issued by Seledi Thompson-Wakama,
Director, Corporate Affairs of the NDDC, Jonathan
said the late ruler lived a righteous life and that his reign as king brought significant development and progress to Ayakoro Community.

The former President noted that the late King Righteous Inegbagha was not only a respected traditional ruler but also a good friend and senior colleague from their school days at Martha Dei High School, Imiringi.

He expressed gratitude to all those who attended the funeral to honour the memory of the monarch.

In a tribute, the NDDC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ogbuku, described the late ruler as a man who truly lived by the values of righteousness, as reflected in the enduring peace that characterised Ayakoro community during his reign.

Quoting the Christian holy book, “When the righteous rule, the people rejoice,” Ogbuku said the burial ceremony was a celebration of a fulfilled and impactful life.

He urged traditional rulers across the region to emulate the virtues of the late monarch by promoting peace and unity in their domains, stressing that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Ogbuku added that the unity and developmental strides recorded in Ayakoro were clear testimonies to King Righteous Inegbagha’s Godly leadership, humility, team spirit, and love-driven style of governance.

The NDDC boss expressed optimism on the future of Ayakoro Community, noting that the solid foundation laid by the late monarch would inspire the emergence of leaders who would build on his legacy.

Tinubu Grants NRCRI Patent For Turmeric Tea Breakthrough

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Tinubu Grants NRCRI Patent For Turmeric Tea Breakthrough

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the issuance of a Certificate of Patent to the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Abia State, for the production of three innovative tea varieties derived from turmeric rhizomes and leaves.

The patent follows a recent technological breakthrough by NRCRI scientists in the formulation and production of turmeric-based teas, a caffeine-free nutraceutical rich in curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties with potential benefits for heart health, digestion, brain function, mood regulation, arthritis management and metabolic wellness.

Confirming the development to journalists in Umuahia on Monday, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of NRCRI, Professor Chiedozie Egesi, said the patent certificate was presented to the institute by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN.

Professor Egesi noted that the approval, granted in line with the Patent and Design Acts, Cap 344, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990, provides full legal recognition for the institute’s innovation.

Describing the patent as a landmark achievement, he said it reflects NRCRI’s commitment to scientific research, agricultural value addition, commercialization of indigenous crops and the growth of Nigeria’s herbal wellness and nutraceutical industry.

“Turmeric, globally acclaimed for its medicinal and immune-boosting qualities, has been transformed by our research team, led by Dr. Rachel Majekodunmi Omodamiro, into novel tea products with strong commercial and health potential,” Egesi said.

He added that the innovation is expected to stimulate enterprise development, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the national economy, while strengthening Nigeria’s position in bio-innovation and natural products research.

Congratulating the researchers, Egesi said the federal government’s recognition underscores the growing strength of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and the untapped potential of indigenous crops in driving sustainable development.

NRCRI is statutorily mandated to conduct research on the genetic improvement, production, processing, storage and utilization of root and tuber crops, including yam, cassava, sweet potato, cocoyam, ginger and related species, while also supporting agricultural extension services and capacity-building programmes across the Southeast agro-ecological zone.

Police Arrest Five More Suspects Over Obi-Wali Centre, Tottinno Robbery In PH …Recover Rifles, Generator

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Police Arrest Five More Suspects Over Obi-Wali Centre, Tottinno Robbery In PH …Recover Rifles, Generator

The Rivers State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its investigation into the robbery incidents at the Dr. Obi-Wali International Cultural Centre and Tottinno Filling Station, with the arrest of five additional suspects and the recovery of key exhibits.

A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Rivers State Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the suspects were arrested separately at different locations within the Diobu and Ikoku areas of Port Harcourt between November 25 and 28, 2025, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine.

Those arrested are Victor Ukabi (41) from Nkpa, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State; Basil Nwagazie (65) from Eziebodo, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State; Nkechinyere Wokem (30), a Point-of-Sale operator from Ubuohia Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State; Obinna Nwankwo (44) from Umu-Erim, Umuaji Uloke in Omuma Local Government Area of Rivers State; and Igwe Amabi Eze (51) from Osuofio, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, identified as a receiver of stolen items.

Police recalled that the alleged leader of the robbery gang, Bright Nwabueze, also known as “Bishop,” aged 53, was earlier intercepted and arrested at the Rumuokoro flyover, where two rifles were recovered from his vehicle.

Exhibits recovered in the course of the investigation include a 30KVA generator recovered from a buyer in Onitsha on December 12, 2025; inverter batteries recovered from a receiver’s shop at Ikoku; and two rifles.

The Police Command said the arrests and recoveries were achieved through sustained, intelligence-driven operations, describing them as a significant milestone in the ongoing investigation.

All suspects and recovered items are currently in police custody, while further investigations continue to track down other members of the syndicate.

Commending the operatives involved, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, urged residents to remain calm, maintain confidence in police operations, and continue to provide credible information to support the fight against crime in the state.

BREAKING: Supreme Court Upholds President’s Power To Declare Emergency Rule, Suspend Elected Officials

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BREAKING: Supreme Court Upholds President’s Power To Declare Emergency Rule, Suspend Elected Officials

The Supreme Court on Monday struck out the suit filed by Adamawa State and 10 other Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led states challenging the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State.

The Atlantic Bell reports that President Tinubu, while declaring the emergency, suspended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, and the State House of Assembly for six months.

In a split decision of six to one, the apex court held that the plaintiffs failed to establish any cause of action capable of invoking the court’s original jurisdiction.

Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Mohammed Idris ruled that the 11 PDP states did not demonstrate the existence of any actionable dispute between them and the Federation to warrant the exercise of the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction.

Justice Idris held that Section 305 of the Constitution, which empowers the President to declare a state of emergency, does not expressly define the nature of extraordinary measures to be taken, thereby vesting the President with discretion on how to manage such situations.

He upheld the preliminary objections raised by the Attorney-General of the Federation and the National Assembly, describing the suit as incompetent. Consequently, the court struck out the case for want of jurisdiction and proceeded to dismiss it on the merits.

However, Justice Obande Ogbuinya dissented, holding that while the President has the constitutional power to declare a state of emergency, such power does not extend to the suspension of elected state officials, including governors, deputy governors and members of the legislature.

The suit was instituted by Adamawa and 10 other PDP-controlled states to challenge the legality of the emergency rule imposed on Rivers State and the suspension of its elected officials.

Thanksgiving, Covenant With God, Says Cleric As GLOLAM Lifts Light Of Gratitude In PH

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Thanksgiving, Covenant With God, Says Cleric As GLOLAM Lifts Light Of Gratitude In PH

Christians have been urged to cultivate a lifestyle of gratitude to God Almighty, with clerics describing thanksgiving as a powerful spiritual covenant that unlocks divine blessings.

This charge was given by Rev. (Dr.) Mrs. Angela Faraday Iwuchukwu of the Redeemed Brethren Ministries, Port Harcourt, while delivering a sermon at the Annual Thanksgiving Service of the Great Light of Life Ambassadors on a Mission (GLOLAM) Ministries, held at the weekend in Port Harcourt.

Rev. Iwuchukwu described thanksgiving as a core covenant between God and humanity, noting that God delights in gratitude whenever He extends grace and mercy. She outlined the benefits of thanksgiving to include a stronger relationship with God, the unlocking of fresh blessings and breakthroughs, and renewed strength to overcome life’s challenges.

She explained that thanksgiving is not limited to material offerings such as farm produce, cash or hampers brought to church, but also includes acts of kindness and goodwill extended to others.

“Small outreach gestures, kindness to neighbours, sharing leftover food or even giving out old clothes all amount to thanksgiving unto God,” she said.

The cleric further urged believers to consciously reflect on God’s goodness in their lives, stressing that even the gift of sleeping and waking up daily is worthy of thanksgiving. Quoting extensively from the Bible, she emphasized that God has good plans for everyone, achievable through patience, hard work, consistency and total reliance on Him.

Highlights of the event included thanksgiving presentations by various Light of Life family units, the presentation of an Award of Excellence to the Team Lead and Superintendent Apostle General, Eze (Prof.) Samuel Ugochuku Onyeka (JP), as well as musical renditions by the Selected Voices of Opobo (SVO).

In his remarks, the Global Team Lead, Apostle General Onyeka, said the thanksgiving celebration was inspired by Leviticus 19:9, which underscores generosity and care for the vulnerable. He noted that GLOLAM is committed to raising future “Esthers” and “Josephs” who will dream, interpret vision and lead generations towards Nigeria’s centenary in 2060 and beyond.

Quoting John 8:12, he stated that the young Light Ambassadors would embody the Light of Life, manifest the fruits of the Spirit and uphold the Body of Christ on earth.

The programme also featured goodwill messages and testimonials from several clerics, including Senior Superintendent Apostle Professor Stanley Dimkpa, former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rivers State chapter. Apostle Dimkpa commended the dedication of the GLOLAM leadership, while expressing concern that corruption and crime persist in the state despite its predominantly Christian population, particularly among politicians who claim to serve the people.

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