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Governor Fubara Lights Up Port Harcourt for Christmas

By
Precious Aniefiok
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Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State officially ushered in the Christmas season by commissioning the 2024 Christmas Lights display in Port Harcourt on Sunday, December 15th, at the GRA Junction. The city was transformed into a dazzling spectacle of colorful lights and festive decorations.

The Christmas Lights display, sponsored by the Rivers State Government, Zenith Bank, Globus Bank, Hotel Presidential, and other partners, has become an annual tradition in Port Harcourt, attracting residents and visitors alike. 

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The event was attended by a host of dignitaries and VIPs, who joined in the festive spirit and expressed their admiration for the beautiful display. 

The 2024 Christmas Lights display will remain illuminated throughout the holiday season, adding a touch of magic to the city’s skyline and creating a memorable experience for all who witness it. 

Rivers United Star Named Player of The Week

By
Divine Eleeh
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Rivers United star, Timothy Zakariah has emerged as Player of the Week for NPFL matchweek 16.

Timothy Zakariah was the star of the show for Rivers United, scoring a crucial goal and providing a decisive assist to help his team come from behind and defeat visiting Kwara United in a thrilling encounter at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.

Zakariah’s impressive performance has been a hallmark of his debut season with Rivers United, where he has quickly established himself as a key player. The talented forward has now scored two goals for the “Pride of Rivers” since joining the team, with his first goal coming against Sunshine Stars last month.

Zakariah’s contributions have been a significant factor in Rivers United’s success this season, and his ability to score important goals and create scoring opportunities for his teammates has made him a valuable asset to the team. As the season progresses, Zakariah will be looking to continue his impressive form and help Rivers United achieve their goals.

Sunday’s match at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt got off to a shocking start, as visiting Kwara United stunned the home fans with a goal in the 18th minute. The early strike seemed to energize the visitors, but Rivers United refused to back down.

The home team’s persistence paid off in the 53rd minute, when Timothy Zakariah scored the equalizing goal, drawing Rivers United level and sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Zakariah’s goal was a crucial turning point in the match, and it seemed to galvanize the team’s attack.

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Just six minutes later, Zakariah turned provider, delivering a pinpoint assist to substitute David Benjamin, who slotted home the winning goal. The dramatic turnaround was a testament to Rivers United’s resilience and teamwork, and it sent the home fans into raptures.

The hard-fought victory has propelled Rivers United back to the top of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) standings, ahead of closest rivals Remo Stars, who were held to a draw at Ikorodu City. The win is a significant boost to Rivers United’s title ambitions, and it sets the stage for an exciting showdown with their rivals in the coming weeks.

Rivers United Beats Kwara United

By
Divine Eleeh
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Rivers United Defeated Kwara United in a Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday 17 showdown at the Adokiye Amiesimaka stadium in Port Harcourt.

Rivers United technical adviser, Finidi George, further lavished praise on his players for their outstanding display against Kwara United. The Pride of Rivers secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over their opponents at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt on Sunday.

George expressed his satisfaction with the team’s overall performance, highlighting their resilience, determination, and teamwork. He acknowledged that the win was a testament to the players’ hard work and dedication, and commended them for their ability to adapt to the game’s challenges.

The victory marked an important milestone for Rivers United, as they continue to push for success in the league. With this win, the team has demonstrated its potential to compete at the highest level, and George will be looking to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches.

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Rivers United’s Timothy Zacharia and David Benjamin proved to be the heroes of the match, scoring crucial goals in the 52nd and 59th minutes that sealed a 2-1 victory for the hosts against Kwara United. Akani Akeem’s lone goal in the 17th minute for Kwara United was not enough to prevent his team from succumbing to defeat.

In a post-match interview, Rivers United’s technical adviser, Finidi George, acknowledged that the encounter was a challenging one. Despite the tough opposition, Finidi was delighted with his team’s performance, particularly their ability to score two goals in a single game. “It’s been a while since we’ve scored two goals in a match, so doing it against Kwara United is a great confidence booster for the team,” Finidi stated.

Finidi’s comments suggest that the win was a significant morale boost for Rivers United and that the team is beginning to find its rhythm in front of goal. With this victory, Rivers United will be looking to build momentum and continue their push for success in the league.

I told them it was going to be a difficult game because last season Rivers United didn’t win so unfortunately we conceded and had to fight back which propelled us to make two quick changes to get the win.

“We have to commend the players for the win.”

APC Targets Rivers State in 2027–Ganduje

By
Rejoice Victor
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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has stated that the party’s target is to capture Rivers State in 2027. Ganduje made this statement while inaugurating the newly elected executive committee of the party in the state, led by Chief Tony Okocha, in Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Saturday.

Ganduje noted that although the South-South geo-political zone is largely controlled by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the APC is making inroads in the zone, with Cross River and Edo states already taken by the ruling party.

The APC National Chairman emphasized the importance of internal democracy, conflict resolution, and party unity. He urged the new state executive committee to ensure that there is peace within the party ranks in the state and to use their political dexterity to ensure that the party moves from strength to strength in their constituencies.

Ganduje also administered the oath of allegiance and oath of office to the new state executive committee members, after they were called out by the party’s Deputy National Chairman, South-South, Chief Victor Giadom.

In his remarks, the State APC Chairman, Okocha, expressed confidence that the party will take over the Rivers government house come 2027. Okocha stated that the party is united in the state and assured that they will work tirelessly to ensure the party’s victory in the 2027 elections.

Okocha also urged members who are still pursuing litigation to turn over a new leaf and return to the fold, emphasizing that the party is supreme and that there is no need for further court challenges.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by 16 members of the APC National Working Committee, who were led by Ganduje to Rivers State.

Ganduje said, “Traditionally in APC, the inauguration of a state chapter is usually done at the headquarters of the APC in Abuja. But as part of the changes that we are introducing, we decided to inaugurate these elected committee members here in Rivers State so that our party is rooted to the grassroots.”

He emphasized that the party will continue to work together at all levels, adding that the APC national leadership is willing to perform functions for its fold even at the ward levels.

Ganduje added, “Therefore the state is our constituency. We need to embrace the state. We need to be in contact with the state. We need to be in harmony with the state. We need to synergize with the state and we need to be in love with the state. That is why we are here.”

To the new Rivers State exco, he said, “As members and leaders of our party in the state, you know your basic responsibilities, your functions as spelled out by the constitution of our great party.”

Ganduje urged the new state executive committee to ensure that there is internal democracy, to look for new entrants into the party, and to look for members into the party.

He continued, “Use your political dexterity to ensure that our party moves from strength to strength in your constituencies. It is absolutely necessary.”

Ganduje who led 16 members of the party’s National Working Committee to Rivers State urged the 36-member Okocha-led executive to ensure that there is peace within the party ranks in the state.

He continued, “You must ensure an effective conflict resolution mechanism. As leaders of the party, I believe you are equal to the task.”

Ganduje said, “You’re from the South-South geo-political zone where the zone was dominated by the PDP. But you are fully aware that during the Muhammadu Buhari administration, we were able to take one state, Cross River from the PDP to the APC.”

He added, “And now under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we were able to win Edo State squarely. Out of the six states in the zone (South-South), we have recovered two.”

Ganduje emphasized, “Rivers State is our target. Rivers State we are here for you. Rivers State you are on the way.”

He said, “Therefore I say to you (the new state exco) to bring Rivers State to APC is a task that must be done.”

Speaking after his inauguration, the State APC Chairman, Okocha, expressed confidence that the party will take over the Rivers government house come 2027.

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Okocha stated, “We are one united party in Rivers State. You (referring to the national leadership) already know that the opponent on the other side is defeated already.”

He added, “As a political party what we assure you is that all the rules that are akin to a political party this opposition party is with it and we can exhaust it.”

Okocha stated, “Our business is not to clap hands for the government in power, but our business is to de-market them and we send this instruction to them that the 2027 APC flag will be erected in Government House in Rivers State.”

While assuring all that he will continue to preach peace in the party, he urged members who are still pursuing litigation to turn over a new leaf and return to the fold.

Okocha stated, “Let me use this opportunity to advise a few of our members who are running round the courts, that we appeal to them that there is nothing else to challenge in courts.”

He added, “I did not see the power of the courts that is superior to the party. We are always told that the party is supreme. No other person than the National Chairman himself and the 16 members of the National Working Committee of the party have come to Rivers State to inaugurate us.”

Okocha emphasized, “I want to use this medium to encourage them to come back to the party. We are a party team, and we need to be together. I believe that in party formation the more the merrier. Let us all come back together.”

Ahoada West chairman delays palliatives as flood receded

By
Editor
-

By Mark Lenu

 

The Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, Iyekor Ikporo is said to have delayed the palliatives he promised his people during the flood.

The perennial flood which began around the third quarter this year, receded in November, paving the way for the displaced flood victims of the area to return home.

This year’s flood appears different from previous years that usually last till December, making the Christmas festivity difficult for the people of the area to enjoy at home.

The LGA chairman was said to have issued some forms with the aim of assisting the victims of the flood with some palliatives as the flood was said to have destroyed property worth millions of naira across several communities in the LGA.

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While the residents of the LGA, happily filled and submitted the forms with the belief that palliatives will come their way, the chairman is yet to do the needful.

While some of the flood victims need roofing zinc, cement and other building materials as palliatives to renovate their damaged houses, others need food items including cash for Christmas.

One of the flood victims, Wisdom Owolo who hails from the Joinkrama axis of Ahoada West told our correspondent that he and his people are still waiting for the council chairman to give them palliatives.

He said: “The flood is no more. It receded since November first week. Nothing like flood for now and those who left their homes because of the flood have returned.

“During the flood time, the LGA chairman, Iyekor Ikporo, brought some forms to us to fill and submit which we did. The forms were meant to identify all the flood victims in the area for palliative. But up till now, the chairman has not done anything with respect to the forms.”

N4.4B Worth of Opioids Recovered In Rivers State by NDLEA

By
Benedicta
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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has successfully confiscated 636,600 bottles of codeine-based syrup, estimated to be worth N4.4 billion on the streets, at the Port Harcourt Port Complex in Onne, Rivers State. This significant recovery was announced by Femi Babafemi, the Director of Media and Advocacy for NDLEA, during a statement released on Sunday in Abuja.

According to Babafemi, the illicit drugs were detected in shipments originating from India on December 9, 11, and 13. The seizures occurred following a collaborative inspection of four containers conducted by NDLEA officers, personnel from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and other security agencies at the port. He emphasized that these operations were enabled by actionable and reliable intelligence gathered by NDLEA operatives.

“At the Port Harcourt Port Complex, Onne, Rivers state, no fewer than 636,600 bottles of codeine-based syrup worth N4.4billion in street value were intercepted in shipments from India,” Babafemi stated.

In parallel with these enforcement actions, various commands and units of NDLEA across Nigeria have been actively engaged in the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA). Over the past week, the agency has conducted sensitization programs targeting schools, places of worship, workplaces, and communities to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.

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He further explained that these initiatives are part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to minimize the risks associated with illicit drug abuse and trafficking throughout the nation.

Reflecting on the operation’s success, Babafemi shared a commendation from NDLEA Chairman, retired Brigadier-General Buba Marwa, who praised the officers and personnel of the Onne Commands for their effective arrests and seizures. Marwa asserted that such operational achievements demonstrate to drug traffickers and cartels that the agency possesses the necessary capacity and intelligence network to monitor and intercept their activities even before the drugs reach Nigerian shores.

He concluded by stating that the agency would continue to sustain its efforts vigorously to prevent any setbacks in the fight against drug-related crimes.

3MTT Summit Empowers Over 5,000 Tech Enthusiasts in Rivers State

By
Benedicta
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Over 5,000 technology enthusiasts in Rivers State have successfully completed training designed to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy. The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to youth development through technology, a key strategy for advancing the nation’s growing tech ecosystem.

This dedication was reaffirmed during the ‘Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Community Impact Summit and Hackathon,’ held recently, where over 5,000 young individuals participated. According to the organizers, the program is already yielding results, with some participants securing international employment opportunities.

The event highlighted the successes of the 3MTT initiative, led by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMCIDE). Joy Nwaiwu, the Community Manager for 3MTT in Rivers State, emphasized the enthusiasm displayed by participants leading up to the summit. “We have seen the excitement from the fellows not just today but in the days leading to this event,” she stated, underscoring the importance of continuous learning beyond the program.

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In her keynote address, Dr. Ugochi A. Okengwu, Head of the Computer Science Department at the University of Port Harcourt, stressed the need for participants to sustain their momentum post-training. Speaking on the topic of Life After the 3MTT Program, she encouraged fellows to utilize their skills, tackle real-world challenges, and remain adaptable in the dynamic tech industry.

Bruce Lucas, CEO of Olotu Square and a key stakeholder, emphasized on the transformative impact of the program, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. He urged the government to provide additional support, such as essential devices and resources, to ensure participants can maximize the benefits of their training amid rising living costs.

The summit brought together 3MTT fellows, alumni, and stakeholders to celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, and discuss the future of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. Since its inception, the program has trained over 1,500 fellows in Cohort 1 and more than 3,500 fellows in Cohort 2 in Rivers State.

A key element of the program’s success lies in its Applied Learning Clusters—specialized training centers across Rivers State, where participants engage in hands-on learning under the guidance of seasoned instructors and mentors.

Falcons Ends 2024 As Africa No.1 Team

By
Nico Deborah
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The Super Falcons of Nigeria have ended 2024 as Africa’s highest-ranked women’s football team in FIFA’s final rankings for the year, despite maintaining their global position at 36th. The latest rankings, released by FIFA on Friday, reinforce the Falcons’ status as the continent’s football giants.

The nine-time African champions retained their supremacy over South Africa (53rd globally), Morocco (61st), Zambia (62nd), and Ghana (66th). This consistency underscores the Falcons’ enduring dominance in African women’s football, even as rivals like South Africa and Morocco continue to improve their performances on the global stage.

Despite their continental dominance, the Falcons’ global ranking of 36th remains a far cry from their peak position of 23rd, achieved in June 2004 and March 2005. The team’s recent performances in 2024 have been a mixed bag, reflecting both their resilience and areas needing improvement.

The Falcons’ victories in back-to-back friendlies against Algeria showcased their attacking flair and defensive solidity. However, a narrow loss to powerhouse France highlighted the gap between Africa’s best and the world’s elite teams.

Additionally, 2024 was marked by a disappointing campaign at the Paris Olympics, where the Falcons failed to make a significant impact. The tournament’s outcome revealed tactical and organizational challenges that must be addressed for Nigeria to reclaim its global prominence.

While the Falcons remain atop Africa’s rankings, their continental rivals are closing the gap. South Africa’s impressive performances in recent tournaments, Morocco’s historic progression to the knockout stages of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and Zambia’s rise as a formidable force demonstrate a competitive shift in African women’s football.

These developments underscore the need for Nigeria to innovate and invest in its women’s football program. Key areas such as youth development, coaching, and infrastructure must be prioritized to maintain their dominance and improve their global standing.

As 2025 approaches, the Super Falcons have an opportunity to reset and build on their strengths. With a talented squad featuring players like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade, the team has the potential to reclaim its position among the world’s top teams.

However, this requires strategic planning, stronger international fixtures, and addressing systemic issues within the team’s management. For Nigerian football fans, the hope remains that the Falcons will not only continue to dominate Africa but also return to their former global glory.

This ranking serves as a reminder of the team’s rich history and the work needed to secure its future.

The Charity Kitchen Project: A Beacon of Hope for Underserved Families in Port Harcourt

By
Rejoice Victor
-

The Charity Kitchen Project, a grassroots food bank initiative, has made a significant impact in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, by providing food and clothing to over 120 households. This initiative is particularly noteworthy as it aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, specifically addressing hunger and promoting responsible resource usage.

Deborah Charles-Dede, the convener of the initiative, highlighted the project’s expansion beyond its initial communities to include families from Elekahia, Diobu, Nkpogwu, and Rumuomasi, as well as neighboring areas like Orazi, Woji, Oyibo, and Town. This outreach has not only provided immediate relief to underserved families but also underscored the vital role of food banks in fostering inclusivity and advancing community development.

According to Charles Dede, the project was conceived to address the pressing issue of hunger and food insecurity in Port Harcourt. “We recognized that many families in our community were struggling to make ends meet, and we wanted to do something to help,” she explained. “The Charity Kitchen Project was born out of this desire to make a positive impact in our community.”

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The initiative has been well-received by the beneficiaries, who have expressed gratitude for the support. “The Charity Kitchen Project has been a lifesaver for my family,” said one beneficiary. “We were struggling to feed our children, but thanks to this initiative, we now have access to nutritious food and clothing.”

The Charity Kitchen Project’s efforts are especially important in the context of global hunger and food insecurity. According to the United Nations, approximately 735 million people worldwide suffer from chronic hunger, with 2.4 billion people facing moderate to severe food insecurity.

Initiatives like the Charity Kitchen Project are crucial in addressing these issues, and their impact can be replicated through similar grassroots efforts. Other organizations, such as Food Forward, Food Recovery Network, and Food Shift, are also working to reduce food waste and hunger in their respective communities.

These collective efforts demonstrate the potential for community-driven initiatives to drive meaningful change and promote a more equitable and sustainable food system. As the Charity Kitchen Project continues to grow and expand its reach, it serves as a shining example of the impact that can be achieved through grassroots activism and community engagement.

The project’s success can be attributed to the dedication and hard work of its volunteers, who have worked tirelessly to collect, sort, and distribute food and clothing to those in need. The initiative has also received support from local businesses and organizations, which have donated food, clothing, and other essential items.

As the Charity Kitchen Project looks to the future, its convener, Deborah Charles-Dede, remains committed to expanding the initiative’s reach and impact. “We are grateful for the support we have received so far, but we know that there is still much work to be done,” she said. “We will continue to work tirelessly to provide support to those in need and to promote a more equitable and sustainable food system in our community.”

The Charity Kitchen Project’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that can be achieved through grassroots activism and community engagement. As the initiative continues to grow and expand its reach, it remains a beacon of hope for underserved families in Port Harcourt and a shining example of the power of community-driven change.

Israel Adesanya Sues Afrobeat Star Superstar, YB, Over Unauthorized Voice Clip in Hit Song

By
Benedicta
-

Nigerian-born UFC champion Israel Adesanya has reportedly filed a $5 million lawsuit against Afrobeat artist Superstar YB. The legal dispute arises from the alleged unauthorized use of Adesanya’s voice in the track Jealous (Faaji), which features fellow Nigerian musician Terry Apala.

The controversy centers on the song’s introduction, which is said to include a clip of Adesanya celebrating a UFC title victory, where he proclaims himself a “two-division UFC champion.” Reports claim that Superstar YB used this audio snippet without seeking or obtaining Adesanya’s permission.

The track later appeared on Superstar YB’s critically acclaimed EP, Proudly Nigerian, which gained international recognition, peaking at number 4 on Apple Music’s Top 100 Worldwide Chart. The EP’s global success further amplified the reach of the disputed material.

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This case highlights the intersection of sports and music, involving two prominent Nigerian figures who share Yoruba heritage and a deep connection to their roots. Despite this cultural bond, Adesanya has allegedly opted to pursue legal action to protect his intellectual property rights.

Efforts to reach representatives from both Adesanya and Superstar YB for comments have been unsuccessful. While fans await further developments, the lawsuit underscores the growing importance of safeguarding intellectual property, even within creative industries.

Adesanya, a global UFC icon known for his athletic dominance and vibrant personality, has consistently celebrated his Nigerian heritage throughout his career. Meanwhile, Superstar YB has become a leading figure in Afrobeat, blending Yoruba influences with global music trends.

This dispute also reflects a broader trend of athletes and celebrities becoming increasingly protective of their personal brand and intellectual property as their visibility grows in a digitally interconnected world.

It remains uncertain whether the matter will be resolved in court or through an out-of-court settlement, but it serves as a reminder of the legal complexities surrounding creativity and branding in modern entertainment.

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