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NCDMB Hails Nigerian Content Strides in NLNG Train 7 Project

By
Chamberlain Izidor
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The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Felix Omatsola Ogbe, has pointed out and applauded the significant Nigerian Content achievements in the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) Train 7 Project. During a visit to the NLNG six-train plant, Train 7 Project construction site, and the NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) training center, Maritime Centre for Excellence (MCOE) in Finima, Bonny Island, Rivers State, Ogbe emphasized the need for increased collaboration and advocacy for Nigerian Content in the oil and gas industry.

Ogbe’s visit comes on the back of a recent tour of BEAMCO Limited, where pumps and valves are locally assembled for the Train 7 Project, and the commissioning of the Daewoo Galvanising Plant at Abam-ama, Okrika, Rivers State. He highlighted how the Train 7 Project had significantly boosted local capacity through the production of ancillary components and accessories within Nigeria, contributing directly to the project’s successful execution.

The Executive Secretary commended the recent Presidential Directives on Local Content implementation, which mandate that contracts in the oil and gas sector be awarded exclusively to local companies with proven in-country capabilities, as instrumental to these achievements. He praised the NLNG’s commitment to Nigerian Content, stating, “The accomplishments we are witnessing today at the NLNG Train 7 Project are a testament to the NLNG’s unwavering commitment to Nigerian Content.”

Ogbe also commended NLNG’s management for achieving 52 million man-hours on the Train 7 project with zero lost time injury (LTI). He expressed delight at the Maritime Centre for Excellence (MCOE) being the first training centre in Africa to receive accreditation from the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (UK MCA).

Read More: INGO Launches Ambitious Program to Boost Livelihoods in 66 Niger Delta Communities

Child Trafficking Ring Smashed In Rivers State, 16 Children Rescue

It is worth noting that NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, Olakunle Osobu, lauded the NCDMB’s unwavering support for the Train 7 Project, describing the partnership as a shining example of public-private collaboration. He emphasized that NLNG’s Nigerian Content deliverables showcase the power of strategic collaboration and capacity building, aligning with the NCDMB’s broader objectives and contributing to national development goals.

It bears mentioning that the Train 7 Project has expanded Nigeria’s LNG production capacity from 22 Metric Tons (MT) to 30MT per annum, creating jobs, driving sustainable development, and reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a formidable player in the global energy market.

Rivers State Faces Teacher Shortage Crisis: NUT Calls for 15,000 New Educators

By
Chamberlain Izidor
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The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Rivers State chapter, has sounded the alarm over the acute shortage of teachers in schools across the state, warning that at least 15,000 new teachers are urgently needed to address the crisis. Dr. Collins Echekpu, the State NUT Chairman, made this startling revelation in an exclusive interview with journalists in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

According to Echekpu, the shortage of teachers is a pressing issue that affects primary, senior secondary, and junior secondary schools across the state, leaving classrooms empty and students without instruction. He emphasized that the state government must intervene to address this critical shortage, which threatens to undermine the education sector in Rivers State.

“We are facing a severe shortage of teachers, and it’s a crisis that requires immediate attention,” Echekpu said. “We need 15,000 new teachers to fill the gap in our schools. This includes 5,000 teachers for primary schools, 5,000 for senior secondary schools, and 5,000 for junior secondary schools.”

It is worth noting that Echekpu painted a grim picture of the situation, stating that classrooms remain empty due to the lack of teachers. He urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to take decisive action to address the shortage, emphasizing that the situation is not political but a reality that affects every community in Rivers State.

The NUT chairman also called for the implementation of the new retirement age of 65 years and 45 years of service for teachers in the state, a policy that has already been adopted by other states. He argued that this would help to retain experienced teachers and attract new ones to the profession.

Read More: Child Trafficking Ring Smashed In Rivers State, 16 Children Rescued

In addition to the shortage of teachers, Echekpu highlighted other challenges facing the education sector in Rivers State, including the need for better office furniture for headteachers and principals, desks for students, and writing materials for teachers.

“The government has made efforts to provide promotions and other benefits for teachers, but the teachers are not there,” Echekpu said. “We need to address the root causes of this crisis, and that includes providing the necessary resources and support for our teachers.”

It bears mentioning that the NUT chairman’s call for action comes as schools resume for a new session, with students eager to learn but facing the reality of empty classrooms and absent teachers. For those close to the matter, the situation is a wake-up call for the state government to prioritize education and address the critical shortage of teachers in Rivers State.

More advocacy groups spring up in support of Fubara

By
Editor
-

By Mark Lenu

 

More advocacy groups have sprung up in support of Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the political fight between the governor and his immediate past predecessor, Nyesom Wike continues.

Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has vowed to continue his political fight against Fubara if the governor refuses to surrender the state PDP structure to him.

In solidarity with Fubara, another advocacy group christened: “Citizens’ Rights Advocacy Initiative (CRAI)” has floated its vision and mission statements for the defense of democracy which the group thinks Wike is a threat to.

In a pape – long press release made available to our correspondent, the Coordinator of the group, Comrade Sobebo Princewill stated as follows:

VISION
“A Rivers State where citizens’ voices are heard, and their rights are protected, leading to a more just, equitable, and prosperous society.”

MISSION
“To empower citizens, promote good governance, and hold leaders accountable through advocacy, education, and community engagement, ensuring that the government serves the people’s interests.”

OBJECTIVES
1. Promote Transparency and Accountability:
– Monitor government activities and expenditures
– Advocate for open governance and access to information
– Support anti-corruption initiatives

  1. Empower Citizens:

– Educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities
– Encourage civic participation and engagement
– Support community-led initiatives and advocacy.

  1. Advocate for Good Governance:

– Promote policy reforms and inclusive decision-making
– Support independent institutions and the rule of law
– Advocate for social justice and human rights

  1. Hold Leaders Accountable:

– Monitor elected officials’ performance and promises
– Organize peaceful protests and demonstrations
– Engage in constructive dialogue with government officials.

  1. Foster Collaboration and Partnerships:

– Build alliances with like-minded organizations and stakeholders
– Support inter-community dialogue and cooperation
– Collaborate with government agencies and institutions when necessary.

The coordinator added that by achieving the above-mentioned objectives, the political advocacy group aims to create a more just, equitable, and prosperous society where citizens’ voices are heard, and their rights are protected.

Rivers LP Denies Allegations Made by Prince Favor Against Fubara

By
Benedicta
-

The Rivers State chapter of the Labour Party has publicly disassociated itself from allegations made by one of its members, Prince Favor Reuben, regarding the upcoming October 5 local government elections.

Reuben accused the Action Peoples Party (APP) of engaging in irregularities during its candidate selection process. He claimed that the party, which he described as a “social club,” had selected its candidates without adhering to proper procedures.

According to Reuben, this selection process was orchestrated by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Chief of Staff, Eddison Ehie, and other members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

He further argued that this interference could be considered anti-party activity and compromised the integrity of the election.

In response to Reuben’s allegations, Gogo Wellington, the Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party in Rivers State, urged the public to ignore any statements not issued by the party’s State Working Committee.

Read Also:
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Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, Reaffirms Commitment to Economic Growth

Wellington further emphasized the party’s positive relationship with the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) and praised the commission for its professionalism.

He reassured the public of RSIEC’s capacity to oversee the electoral process and ensure that all political parties comply with the law. Wellington also made it clear that the Labour Party would not involve itself in addressing unverified accusations.

“We would want the general public to kindly disregard any statement that does not emanate from the State Working Committee of the party or the executive council of the party in the state.

“Because for us as a party, we have a very wonderful working relationship with the RSIEC at the moment. Being that the RSIEC has so far conducted itself or herself very professionally in the processes leading to the election,” Wellington stated.

He concluded by reiterating that any claims made by individuals outside the Labour Party’s leadership were not reflective of the party’s stance.

Super Eagles Interim Coach Denies Stepping Down

By
Nico Deborah
-

 

Austin Eguavoen, the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has publicly denied reports that he has stepped down as the interim coach of the Super Eagles after overseeing the team’s two 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda. Eguavoen was appointed to lead the national team for these crucial encounters following the NFF’s struggles to secure German coach Bruno Labbadia, due to complications with stringent German tax laws.

The NFF’s decision to appoint Eguavoen, a seasoned coach and former player, was seen as a strategic move to stabilize the Super Eagles’ campaign in the absence of a permanent head coach. A statement from the NFF, announcing Eguavoen’s appointment, read: “In the event, Technical Director of Nigeria Football Federation, Coach Augustine Eguavoen, will now take charge of the Super Eagles for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin Republic (Uyo, September 7) and Rwanda (Kigali, September 10).” This announcement came after it became clear that negotiations with Labbadia could not be concluded in time for the qualifiers.

Eguavoen, a veteran of Nigerian football, boasts a wealth of experience, having previously managed the Super Eagles on several occasions, including at the 2006 and 2021 AFCON tournaments. His return to the helm this time, although under temporary circumstances, was met with optimism by many Nigerian football fans, who hoped his familiarity with the team would help navigate these important fixtures.

The Super Eagles delivered a strong performance under Eguavoen’s guidance, securing a decisive 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. This victory buoyed the team’s morale as they traveled to Kigali, Rwanda, for the second game. However, despite their efforts, the Super Eagles were held to a goalless draw in a tightly contested match against Rwanda on Tuesday, September 10. The results leave Nigeria in a favorable position for qualification, but there is still work to be done.

In the wake of the two matches, rumors began circulating that Eguavoen had stepped down from his interim role. However, the 59-year-old swiftly dismissed these reports, asserting that his role was temporary from the onset and that any further decision would be at the discretion of the NFF. “I never said I was stepping down. My appointment was for these two games, and I remain fully committed to whatever decision the NFF makes moving forward,” Eguavoen stated during a post-match interview. His response highlights his dedication to the role, even as uncertainties linger regarding the appointment of a permanent head coach.

As the NFF continues its search for a long-term solution, Eguavoen’s interim leadership has reinforced his status as one of the most reliable figures in Nigerian football. The fans and stakeholders now await further announcements from the federation, hoping for clarity on the future of the Super Eagles’ coaching situation ahead of the next round of qualifiers.

Rivers: Police apprehend suspected one chance syndicate

By
Editor
-

By Tina Amanda

The Rivers State Police Command says it detectives arrested three suspected ‘one chance’ robbers and child suspected child trafficker in two different operations within the state.

The spokesperson for the Command, SP Grace Iringe Koko, disclosed this while briefing newsmen at the Police Headquarters, Moscow Road, on Monday 9 September 2024.

According to her, on September 4, 2024, at about 9 pm, operatives of the Command attached to the Intelligence and Surveillance Unit, while on a routine patrol along Garrison axis of Aba road, Port-Harcourt, sighted a Purple colored Volkswagen Golf 3, with registration number RIVERS -ABU 738 LS with six occupants. As the patrol van approached the vehicle, one of the occupants was pushed out of the Car around the Garrison flyover area.

She explained that the heinous action heightened suspicions of the operatives who then gave the vehicle a hot chase and eventually intercepted the suspects at the Eleme junction just under the bridge.

SP Koko disclosed that the driver and one other escaped, while the Police apprehended three suspects namely Mr. Thaddeus Sunday Ogu, a 42-year-old native of Orlu Community in Njaba LGA of Imo State and self-acclaimed artisan residing at Camp Pipeline, Oyigbo, Miss Chinagorom Eze aged 35 years, a native of Ekpija Community in Enugu North LGA of Enugu State, but resides at Railway, Oboama Oyigbo and Miss Favour Yusuf aged 30 years and a native of Plateau State, presently residing at Anele Filling Station, Mbano Camp, Oyigbo.

“One of the suspects, Thaddeus Sunday Ogu ‘m’ attempted to evade arrest by opening fire on the Police operatives which led to him sustaining bodily injuries that eventually proved fatal. He was taken to the Police Clinic, Port-Harcourt where he succumbed to his injuries after receiving treatment.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects specialize in one-chance operations, luring unsuspecting victims into their operational car posing as a commercial vehicle. They would create a single passenger space (chance) at the front seat, while the gang members would occupy every other chance.

“When a victim gets in, they would raise a false alarm in order to get the victim agitated, eventually dispossessing him or her of their money or phones and pushing them out of the moving car. They would then sell the stolen items to awaiting receivers and share the proceeds amongst themselves.

“The suspects confessed to the crime and revealed that they have been operating in Port-Harcourt and its environs between 10 pm to 5 am daily for the past three years before meeting their Waterloo on that fateful day.

“Items recovered from the suspects include their operational Golf 3 Volkswagen Car and one locally made pistol with one live cartridge.

‘Investigation is ongoing, while efforts have intensified to arrest other fleeing members of the syndicate. The suspects and exhibits are in Police custody and will be charged in court at the conclusion of the investigation”.

In a separate incident, on August 25, 2024, at about 6.35 a.m., Operatives of the Command attached to Ubima Divisional Headquarters received a complaint from a middle-aged woman (name and address withheld) indicating that one Miss Queen Orlu aged 20 years was seen lying unconscious in Omeka Farmland at Ucheabuor.

The Police Public Relations Officer stated that operatives immediately mobilized to the scene where the victim was met in a pool of blood with multiple injuries all over her body and her intestines protruding out of a cut on her stomach.

She disclosed that Police investigations revealed that the victim was lured into a bush path at Ubima by one Mr Polycarp Uzoma of Akwa in Ohaji LGA of Imo State, but presently resident at Ubima and He used a bicycle to convey her to the designated spot and then attacked her, hitting her repeatedly with a stick and a yet-to-be-identified weapon. When she became unconscious, he took her one-year-old baby boy, Desire Orlu, and left her to die.

She stated that Mr Uzuoma then sold the baby to one Happiness Amadi for One Million, Four Hundred Thousand Naira (#1,400,000.00). The deal was brokered by one Ms.Chinyere Ordu an acclaimed auxiliary nurse who received the sum of Eight Hundred Thousand Naira (#800,000.00) as part of payment for the trafficking deal.

“The three suspects have been arrested and confessed to the crime and the Police have recovered the sum of Eight Hundred Thousand Naira (#800,000.00) and Bicycle as exhibits.

“The one-year-old baby boy has been rescued and the victim is currently on admission at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital for medical treatment. Suspects and exhibits are in Police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation”.

CSO condemns arrest of NLC President, Ajero, calls for enforcement of his fundamental rights

By
Editor
-

By Tina Amanda

The Pilex Centre for Civil Education Initiative has expressed strong disapproval over the arrest of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajero, by the Department of State Security Service (DSS), labeling the act as unlawful.

Speaking to our correspondent, the Coordinator of the center, Courage Nsirimvo, criticized the manner in which Ajero was apprehended without a warrant, deeming it a violation of legal procedure.

Nsirimvo stressed that although the DSS has the constitutional right to arrest individuals if there is probable cause, such actions must follow due process, particularly when dealing with public figures.

He urged Ajero’s legal team to promptly approach the courts for the enforcement of his fundamental rights.

“Joe Ajero is not a goat to be picked up without a warrant, let the public know on what grounds his arrest is, we need to speak out. His lawyers should quickly go to court and seek enforcement of his fundamental rights.

“To restrain the police, because it’s becoming too much more or less an intimidation”.

Nsirimvo further accused the DSS of intimidating figures who stand against the government’s policies, particularly concerning the recent fuel price increase. He reiterated that the arrest should not be another case of impunity, and urged that Ajero’s rights be protected.

“Apparently, they know these are the people that will stand up to say no to the fuel price increment. We need to understand the circumstances behind the arrest so it will not just be another impunity”.

The Pilex Centre concluded by highlighting the need for solidarity.

“Injury to one is injury to all. We are all tied together in one network of mutuality. Whatever affects one human rights defender indirectly affects others.”

INGO Launches Ambitious Program to Boost Livelihoods in 66 Niger Delta Communities

By
Chamberlain Izidor
-

In a groundbreaking effort to address the systemic drivers of violence and criminality in the Niger Delta region, Search For Common Ground (SFCG), an International Non-governmental Organisation (INGO), has unveiled a comprehensive sustainable livelihood initiative in 66 communities across Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.

The initiative, launched in collaboration with the PIND Foundation, APW, and SDN, aims to provide alternatives to idle youths and promote economic empowerment, thereby reducing the allure of criminal activities. Speaking at a one-day Strategy Validation Meeting in Port Harcourt, Yacinthe Agbadjagan, Regional Head and Head of Programme for SFCG in Niger Delta, emphasized the crucial role of community participation in the initiative’s success.

“The program’s success relies heavily on the active participation of community leaders, government agencies, civil society, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders,” Agbadjagan stressed. “We are working closely with communities to identify their unique needs and develop tailored solutions to address them.”

The 18-month pilot phase humanitarian program, which began in November 2023, focuses on validating the livelihood initiative strategy with community leaders to ensure their input and ownership. Agbadjagan noted that despite achievements recorded so far, the program still faces challenges that require collective effort to overcome.

It is worth noting that the Project Consultant Bridget Afia provided insight into the initiative’s community-driven approach, explaining that communities are driving the decision-making process, selecting skills and businesses that address their unique challenges. “By identifying and resolving specific needs, we hope to create sustainable businesses and income opportunities,” Afia said.

Afia highlighted examples of communities opting for cold rooms and fish driers, oil mills, and cassava mills, emphasizing the need for sustainable businesses that can thrive in the long term. “We are focusing on businesses that can stand the test of time, such as renewable energy, to foster economic growth and reduce reliance on external support,” she added

Read More: Governor Fubara’s Anti-Corruption Drive Transforming Rivers State – Chief Hart

It bears mentioning that the initiative has conducted comprehensive needs assessments prior to its launch, with ongoing rapid sustainable livelihood assessments to ensure that skills development is viable and sustainable. Afia urged Niger Delta youths to develop skills, emphasizing that it remains a sustainable path to success, regardless of government support.

Notably, as the initiative progresses, SFCG and its partners remain committed to ensuring the active participation of community leaders, government agencies, and key stakeholders. By empowering communities and fostering economic growth, the program aims to make a significant impact in reducing violence and criminality in the Niger Delta region.

Child Trafficking Ring Smashed In Rivers State, 16 Children Rescued 

By
Chamberlain Izidor
-

Port Harcourt, Rivers State – In a daring operation, the Rivers State Police Command has busted a notorious child trafficking ring, rescuing 16 children and arresting a female suspect linked to the crime.

According to SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson, the children were found in an estate in the Ozuoba community, Obio/Akpor local government area of the state. The rescue operation was carried out by police operatives following a tip-off and intelligence gathering in the area.

“The 16 children were rescued by our police operatives in Ozuoba following a tip-off and conducting intelligence gathering in the area. One individual has been arrested, and an investigation is underway to identify other accomplices,” Iringe-Koko confirmed in an interview with journalists on Monday in Port Harcourt.

The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was said to have been taking children from nearby communities and churches. Residents of Ozuoba had raised the alarm about the suspect’s activities, prompting the police to swing into action.

A witness, who identified herself as Faith, alleged that the woman had been bringing different children to her residence, sparking suspicion among neighbors. “On Sunday, some individuals confronted her and inquired what she was doing with so many children, but she could not provide a satisfactory explanation, prompting them to contact the police,” Faith said.

Read More: Governor Fubara’s Anti-Corruption Drive Transforming Rivers State – Chief Hart

Another witness revealed that the suspect had been living in the fenced compound with numerous children for over two years, fueling suspicions of foul play.

The case has been referred to the Commissioner of Police Monitoring Unit for further investigation, Iringe-Koko said.

Notably, those close to the matter insist that the bursting of the child trafficking ring is a major breakthrough for the Rivers State Police Command, which has been working tirelessly to combat crime and protect vulnerable members of society.

It bears mentioning that the rescue of the 16 children is a welcome development, and the police are urged to ensure that the suspect is brought to justice and the children are reunited with their families.

Rivers LG poll: Stay away from trouble, OSPAC tells ONELGAns

By
Editor
-

By Mark Lenu

 

The dominant vigilante group in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA of Rivers State, OSPAC has advised the people of the LGA not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to cause trouble before, during, and after the October 5 LG election in the state.

The vigilante group said this in view of what the area had experienced from past elections, adding that a lot of persons had lost their lives as a result of election violence.

The Secretary General of OSPAC, Gift Ohia told our correspondent that what the area needs is a peace that will foster development, not the tension and crisis that an election usually brings.

“Do not allow politicians to use you to cause trouble because it will never benefit you. Some persons are in prison today, some are dead, and houses are destroyed just because of elections.

“I expect our people to learn from the past. Election violence has never favored our people and we don’t want violence at all.

“On our part, as OSPAC, we will continue to do our best to keep the area free from crime and criminality. The time for our people to be wise is now,” he said.

The state electoral umpire, RSIEC has maintained that the October 5 election date remains sacrosanct. It was reported that RSIEC had commenced the screening of candidates ahead of the LG election.

If the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike is allowed to control the Peoples Democratic Party in the state. then the election is going to be a tough contest between him and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara as both of them really want to have their preferred candidates emerge in the poll.

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