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Lady Pharmacists Advocates Brighter Future For Girls In Rivers
The Association of Lady Pharmacists ALPs, has intensified efforts in their determination to provide succor to indigent female children in the 23 Local Government Area of the state.
This is as they awarded six years scholarship to secondary school female students, which was announced by the ALPs state chairman, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Odom.
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In an interview, she explained that the motive behind the project was to give hope to the needy in the state and create a future where the vision of girl children will become reality, devoid of discrimination, limitation and fear.
Lady Pharmacists popularly known as ALPs are female pharmacists practicing in Nigeria and Diaspora who have come together to advance professionalism through advocacies, research and development, improving maternal and child health in partnership with the government and other well-meaning agencies.
ALPs was inaugurated 38 years ago and exist in the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
In the interview, Odom noted that the scholarship project flagged-off recently was part of their advocacy programme to support girl children through school, as a way of encouraging them to aspire to lead, innovate and inspire others.
The ALPs state chair revealed that “the newest project of ours is the commencement of our scholarship programme and we currently have 2 girl children, who we have placed on scholarships which will run for the entire six years of their secondary school education.
“Last year in September, we visited seven schools; public and private, during our Pharmacy week celebrations. In July of 2023, we visited 25 schools in collaboration with the Vitabiotics Company and The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria.
“We have engaged in mentorship programs with ladies of Madonna University and the University of Port-Harcourt, celebrating their best graduating students with cash gifts.
“This year, the Association takes a day in every month to visit a secondary school with our advocacies, the last of which for now, was the visit of the Lady Pharmacists to the GSS Akpajo.”
Odom specially appreciated the deputy governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, for keying into their project and appealed to all well-meaning citizens to see the scholarship as not just the ALPs Project, but a project for all, urging them to support financially and otherwise to see that the dream and vision for the girl child in the state are achieved.
ALPs chair who also spoke on the 2024 commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, held October 11, explained that the theme, “‘Girl’s Vision for the Future,’ resonates deeply with us as pharmacists, as we strive to improve the health and wellbeing of our communities. We acknowledge the incredible potential of girls around the world, especially here in Nigeria and our State.
“We recognize the girl child’s creativity, innovation, and determination to shape a brighter future for themselves even in the midst of Conflicts, economic hardships and gender inequality. As pharmacists, we understand the critical role that girls and women play in healthcare. We see the impact that access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities can have on their lives and the lives of their families, that is why we strive in our own little space to encourage them by way of advocacies especially against drugs and substance abuse, health and wellness campaigns, career enlightenment talks, awards of scholarships to mention but a few.”
Further, she explained that, “in the last one year of my administration, ALPs as we are fondly called, have been to over 100 schools in the state, ensuring that we catch them young and get them to believe that their futures are bright and that they can dream and achieve as far as their minds can take them. And so today, we re-commit to supporting and empowering girls to become leaders and change-makers in their communities. We pledge to continue providing mentorship, guidance and opportunities for girls to pursue their passions and interests.
“As an association, we will continue to advocate for policies and programs that promote gender equality, education, and healthcare for girls. We will work tirelessly to create a world where every girl can thrive and reach her full potential. Let us all join hands to create a future where girls’ visions become a reality. A future where they can live without fear, discrimination, or limitation. A future where they can lead, innovate, and inspire. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for girls everywhere.”
Youth Group Urges Governor Fubara To Present 2025 Budget To Pro-Wike Lawmakers
A youth body in Rivers State has condemned the declaration by State governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, to present the state’s 2025 budget to the Victor Oko-Jumbo led State House of Assembly.
A faction of the National Youth Council of Nigeria NYCN, led by Mr. Chimenem Bobo Worlu, urged the governor to obey what they described as the rule of law by presenting the budget to the Pro-Wike led state assembly, with Martin Amaewhule as its speaker.
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They described the governor’s pledge to continue to collaborate with Oko-Jumbo’s led assembly as illegal and charged Pro-Wike lawmakers to take action against it.
Worlu said on Tuesday that, “presenting the 2025 budget to Oko Jumbo is as good as building something on nothing, at the end of the day it’s effort infertility because it will not stand, just like the 2024 budget he presented.
“If a high court and court of appeal of such magnitude will say this is wrong, this is not constitutional, this is the right thing to do and you, because you think you have the power as a governor is saying no.
“He is just suffering Rivers State, nothing is happening in the state because of his refusal to obey the rule of law. It’s high time the governor is called to order, the Martin Amaewhule led assembly should swing into action.
“He cannot present that budget to Oko Jumbo, Rivers people are rejecting that, he cannot, the one he did is illegal and the state is suffering from it till today, he wants to repeat it again?”
The youth leader insisted that, “there are three arms of government; the executive, the legislature and the judiciary and no one arm can function effectively without the other. Why can’t the governor respect that arm of government called the legislature, why is he fighting the legislature?
“He should respect the office of Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, he should stop setting confusion in Rivers State House of Assembly. You as the media know that the governor is not acting well.
“As a person and chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria, Rivers State chapter, speaking onbehalf of Rivers youth we are saying no to that governor’s proposal because he is taking our state backward.
“My appeal to him is that he should do the right thing, obey the court order and present the budget before Martins Amaewhule, the rightful speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly. That is the people that has the majority and two-third of the house, they are the people legitimately elected that are making laws, they are our lawmakers.
“Do you know that all the laws made by Martin Amaewhule are being implemented by other sectors and organisations in Rivers State, to tell you that the people know their speaker, then why can’t the governor respect the office of the speaker, respect the arm of government called the legislature, why is he fighting the legislature?”
Police Rescues Kidnap Victim In Rivers
Rivers State Police command said it has commenced an investigation and intensified efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of a kidnapping gang that abducted a man in Port Harcourt.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-koko, revealed this development to newsmen on Wednesday, where she noted that the Police had rescued the victim of the kidnappers, Mr. Madabuchi Julius, who was kidnapped at Sabbath Filling Station, in Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state.
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According to her, “on the 17th of November, 2014, at about 2023hrs, operatives of the command received a distress call from the Command’s Control Room indicating that a gang of armed men numbering about four operating in a black colour Toyota Corolla car shot sporadically and kidnapped one Madabuchi Julius ‘m’ at Sabbath Filling Station, Oyigbo.
“Operatives were swiftly mobilized to the scene and the hoodlums on sighting the Police operatives drove off, but they were given a hot chase by the operatives and subsequently intercepted along Egbu Street, Oyigbo and a gun duel ensued between the Police operatives and the hoodlums.”
Iringe-koko added that, “The hoodlums could not withstand the Police superior fire power and eventually abandoned the victim and their operational vehicle with registration number RIVERS PHC 938 AH and escaped. The victim was rescued unhurt and the vehicle recovered.”
The PPRO also revealed that, “in a related development, on the 18th of November, 2024 at about 2248hrs, operatives of the command acted on a credible piece of information, coordinated a covert operation at St Lorinta Street, Oyigbo, arrested one Gabriel Morris, aged 25yrs, ‘m’ of Mercy Ground, Kom-Kom, Oyigbo LGA of Rivers State.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed being a member of a syndicate that has been terrorizing Oyigbo and its environs in recent times.
“Items recovered from the suspect include, one locally made Pistol, quantity of weeds suspected to be Indian Hemp. Investigation is ongoing, while concerted efforts are intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate.
“This successful operation further demonstrates the effectiveness of the Rivers State Police Command in combating kidnapping and all other forms of crime in the State.”
WACT Enhances Safety Operations at Onne Port with New Equipment
The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) has enhanced safety measures at Onne Port, Rivers State, by commissioning new firefighting and recovery equipment. The addition includes a firefighting truck, a recovery tow truck, and a water browser truck, enhancing emergency response capabilities.
This initiative marks the 2024 Annual Global Safety Day, themed “Be Curious Because We Care.” The event highlighted WACT’s continued commitment to workplace safety.
In his speech, Innocent Ogbuji, WACT’s General Manager of Government and Public Relations, emphasized the company’s dedication to improving safety. He encouraged everyone to actively participate in enhancing safety protocols.
“For years, safety policies were designed at the top level, but now we want everyone to be curious, ask questions, and improve processes. Safety is our license to operate,” Ogbuji said.
Adeboye Ogunpolu, WACT’s Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Manager, shared the company’s proactive safety strategies. He explained that the new trucks would improve emergency response times and overall safety performance.
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“Our priority is simple: ensuring that everyone who works here—employees, customers, and government agencies—returns home safely. Take responsibility for safety in your workspace, and always watch out for your colleagues,” Ogunpolu stated.
Osuntuyi Niyi, Senior Safety Officer at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), praised WACT’s safety efforts, calling workplace safety a shared responsibility. He reiterated NPA’s vision to provide secure and efficient port services in a customer-friendly environment.
Keynote speaker Ottomfonobong Akpan, Manager of Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) at INTELS Nigeria, commended WACT’s focus on safety. He urged attendees to stay inquisitive and understand the full context of safety—people, equipment, materials, methods, and the environment.
The introduction of advanced firefighting and recovery equipment aligns with WACT’s goal to maintain a secure and efficient workplace. By fostering a culture of curiosity, responsibility, and continuous improvement, WACT sets a high standard for safety in Nigeria’s maritime industry.
This commitment to safety not only protects workers but ensures the continued efficiency of operations at Onne Port.
“UPTH Has One of The Worst Health care services” -Man laments
As I reflect on my mother’s six-month ordeal at the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), I am compelled to share our distressing experience. The hospital’s alarming shortcomings necessitate attention and reform.
One glaring issue was the hospital’s policy of compulsory feeding. Patients are forced to purchase hospital food at an exorbitant cost of #2000, without alternative options. The food quality was shockingly poor, comparable to, or even worse than, prison food. This raises concerns about patient nutrition and well-being.
The workforce was woefully overstretched, with patient relatives often shouldering responsibilities. I witnessed family members administering IV fluids and medications due to staff shortages. This is unacceptable and poses serious health risks.
My mother’s surgery was canceled four times due to systemic failures:
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- A registrar’s oversight regarding medication.
-
A conference attendance by the entire medical team.
- A nurse’s instruction for my mother to eat on the morning of the operation.
- Another cancellation due to administrative errors.
Frustrated, I transferred my mother to a private hospital for the surgery and then returned her to UPTH.
– An alarming infestation of mosquitoes posed health risks.
– Overgrown grass created an eyesore and potential hiding spots for animals.
Our experience, despite having medical professional connections, was daunting. I worry about the struggles common patients face without such networks.
Others have shared similar experiences:
– “UPTH is something else.”
– “I wouldn’t advise anyone to seek medical attention there.”Awaji Godspower.
Gift Okeke also said “ When the foundation is destroyed what can the righteous do? Federal Hospital for that matter, I feel for this country.
another concerned fellow also said “Thank God your mum came back alive, mine went there and never returned, my big sister also went there 4 years ago and never returned because of the nurse’s carelessness. I pray nothing will ever take me and my loved ones there ever again”.-Gracefilled Sharon
The University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital must acknowledge and address these systemic issues to provide better healthcare services. Patients deserve quality care, not compromises.
Court Adjourns Murder Trial of 12 Suspects in Female Police Inspector’s Death to December 4
A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has adjourned the trial of 12 suspects accused of murdering Police Inspector Christiana Erekere at the Taabaa Police Checkpoint in Rivers State. The hearing is set to continue on December 4, 2024.
Justice Augusta Chukwu postponed the case after the cross-examination of a witness, Harrison Emmanuel, a police officer from the Bori Division, by Sunny Nwokoro, counsel for the 1st and 3rd defendants.
During his testimony, Emmanuel alleged that the suspects attacked Inspector Erekere with sticks and blocks, leading to injuries that resulted in her death while en route to the hospital.
Following the court session, defense counsel Sunny Nwokoro remarked, “We have cross-examined him, and he has answered the questions. That’s all I can say; I can’t say more than that.”
Lead counsel for the police, Mercy Nweke, refrained from making a statement, stating that the Commissioner of Police would need to be briefed first.
The incident occurred on April 25, 2024, when the suspects, reportedly traveling from Delta State to Akwa Ibom State for a wedding, were stopped for a routine check at the Taabaa Police Station in Khana Local Government Area. It was during this stop that they allegedly attacked Inspector Erekere, who was part of the team conducting the search.
The court will reconvene on December 4 for further proceedings.
NIQS Calls for Inclusion in Construction Projects Ahead of Rivers State Conference
The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) has raised concerns about the exclusion of its members from major construction projects, citing it as a significant factor contributing to building collapses and substandard road construction in the country.
Speaking at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, NIQS President Kene Nzekwe addressed the upcoming 2024 Annual General Meeting and Conference. Scheduled to take place from November 26 to 29 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the conference will focus on the theme: “Strengthening Quantity Surveying Practices and Processes for Growth and Sustainability in a Turbulent Economy.”
Mr. Nzekwe emphasized the importance of the conference, stating that it reflects the urgent need to enhance the profession of quantity surveying to better address Nigeria’s economic challenges. He also emphasized the expertise of quantity surveyors, warning against the avoidance of qualified professionals in favor of unqualified individuals, which he equated to supporting quackery.
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“The NIQS has made significant innovative achievements, including the development of a comprehensive cost database for the construction industry, known as the NIQS Building and Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (BESMM 4R). This database will provide reliable data for accurate cost estimation and informed decision-making in project planning and execution,” he said.
Mr. Nzekwe highlighted that the conference serves as a call to action for quantity surveyors to adapt, innovate, and advocate for the involvement of certified professionals in all construction endeavors.
Additionally, he encouraged practitioners in the construction industry to adopt NIQS initiatives to improve efficiency and deliver better value through effective project cost management.
In his remarks, he also urged the government to align project plans with available resources realistically and to enforce strict compliance with procurement guidelines.
By addressing these challenges, the NIQS aims to ensure a stronger and more sustainable construction industry that prioritizes quality and safety.
MOSOP-USA Sets Conditions for Oil Production in Ogoniland
The Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People in the United States (MOSOP-USA) has issued clear demands before the federal government resumes oil exploration in Ogoniland, Rivers State.
In a statement released on Monday in Port Harcourt, MOSOP-USA outlined several conditions, including the creation of an Ogoni State, compensation for the families of the 13 Ogoni martyrs, and the declaration of November 10 as Nigeria’s Environmental Day. The group also called for the adoption of the Ogoni Bill of Rights into the Nigerian constitution, emphasizing the need to address decades of environmental destruction and systemic neglect.
MOSOP-USA President Augustine Kpuinen signed the statement, making it clear that oil production in Ogoniland cannot resume until the government meets these conditions. “The oil in Ogoniland is covered with the blood of our people. Any attempt to restart operations without addressing these grievances will face strong resistance,” Kpuinen warned.
The demands reflect long-standing issues linked to environmental and social injustices caused by unchecked oil exploration. Kpuinen stressed that reparations and systemic reforms are vital for rebuilding trust and securing justice for the Ogoni people.
A major demand is compensation for the families of the 13 Ogoni activists, including Ken Saro-Wiwa, who were executed in 1995 for their opposition to environmental exploitation. MOSOP-USA also insisted that November 10—the anniversary of the activists’ execution—be declared a national Environmental Day to honor their sacrifices and highlight the ongoing environmental crisis in Ogoniland.
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The creation of an Ogoni State is another critical demand. MOSOP-USA believes this would ensure political and economic empowerment for Ogoni communities and provide representation within Nigeria’s federal system. The group warned that ignoring these demands would deepen the perception that the Ogoni people are marginalized and excluded from Nigeria’s decision-making processes.
MOSOP-USA also expressed concern over the political tensions in Rivers State. The group urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to de-escalate actions that have contributed to the unrest in the state.
By issuing these conditions, MOSOP-USA reaffirmed its commitment to seeking justice for the Ogoni people. The group stressed that any future oil exploration must be preceded by environmental restoration, social equity, and accountability for past wrongs.
ICPC Flags ₦610 Billion Constituency and Executive Projects in Rivers and 21 Other States
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has flagged off the 7th phase of its Constituency and Executive Project Tracking Exercise, covering 1,500 projects valued at ₦610 billion across 22 states.
In a statement released on Tuesday, November 19, by ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare, the commission outlined its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the execution of government-funded projects.
States and Scope of Phase 7
The exercise spans the six geopolitical zones, with projects in states such as Kwara, Niger, Kogi, Kebbi, Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, Ondo, Oyo, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Cross River, Delta, Imo, Abia, and Enugu, among others. The ICPC is collaborating with various government agencies, including:
– North-East Development Commission (NEDC)
– Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)
– Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC)
– Rural Electrification Agency (REA)
– National Primary Health Care Development Authority (NPHCDA)
– Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND)
– Ecological Fund Office
Objectives
The initiative aims to promote adherence to due process, ensure value for money, and foster compliance with project scopes and specifications as outlined in contract documents.
Background and Impact
Since its inception in 2019, the ICPC’s tracking initiative has focused on assessing the effective use of funds allocated to critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, water resources, and power.
In Phase 6, the commission tracked 1,900 projects worth ₦500 billion across 24 states. These projects, awarded to 1,355 contractors in 176 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), targeted key infrastructure and development needs, including roads, energy, and water resources.
Expected Outcomes
By scrutinizing the implementation of constituency and executive projects, the ICPC seeks to reduce corruption, improve project delivery, and ensure that communities benefit from government investments.
The commission emphasized that the exercise is a critical step toward institutionalizing a culture of transparency in public project management, ensuring every naira spent delivers measurable impacts.
Eguavoen Defends Struggling Boniface Amidst Goal Drought
Super Eagles interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has expressed his unwavering support for struggling striker Victor Boniface, despite the player’s prolonged goal drought. Boniface, who has been a revelation for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, has yet to replicate his club form on the international stage.
In 11 appearances for the Super Eagles, Boniface has failed to find the net, a stark contrast to his impressive goal-scoring record of 8 goals in 15 appearances in Germany. His most recent outing, a 1 – 2 Loss to Rwanda in the final game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, saw him squander several opportunities.
“Boniface is a talented player, and we believe in his ability,” Eguavoen stated. “He’s going through a tough patch, but we’re working with him to help him regain his confidence. He’s a crucial part of the team, and we’re confident he’ll come good.”
The coach also revealed that he has had several one-on-one conversations with Boniface, offering advice and encouragement. “I’ve spoken to him personally many times, and I’m doing everything I can to help him,” Eguavoen added.
Despite the criticism and calls for Boniface to be dropped from the squad, Eguavoen remains steadfast in his support. “We’re not going to give up on him,” he asserted. “He’s a young player with immense potential, and we’re confident he’ll overcome this difficult period.”
As the Super Eagles continue their journey towards the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the spotlight will remain on Boniface. Fans and pundits alike will be eager to see if the striker can finally break his goal-scoring drought and live up to his immense potential.
