Sickle Cell, Anaemia Patients get relief as Warri North First Lady, Mrs. Ashima Donates Medications To them

First Lady of Warri North LGA, Mrs. Omasan Ashima, has donated medical materials such as drugs and other items to special patients with sickle cell anaemia at the General Hospital in Koko, the headquarters of the Warri North Local Government Area.

According to her, “We are here to support sickle cell anaemia patients. The government of Warri North, Delta State, and Nigeria is committed to improving health outcomes, reducing suffering, and promoting social justice and equity by ensuring equitable access to healthcare services, especially in communities like ours”.

She encouraged the patient to keep their dreams and hopes alive by effectively managing the disease in order to live more productive lives and contribute to the development of the state and nation’s economies, adding that the visit will help in reducing health care cost and give them all more reasons to be happy.

Mrs. Ashima described her visit to the hospital as a continuation of her regular intervention, which is an integral part of the Pet Project and program of the wife of the State Governor, Deaconess Mrs. Tobore Oborevwori, through her YOU MATTER Charity Foundation, as it’s also currently being carried out by the wife of the president, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu.

According to her “YOU MATTER CHARITY FOUNDATION” is a place where everyone is somebody, which prompted her visit to the special child to identify with them by providing their recommended medications.

While receiving Warri North Chairperson at koko General Hospital, the Chief Medical Director of the Hospital Dr. Mukoro commended the effort of the First Lady in constantly providing support to those that needed it the most. He called on others to emulate the Wife of the council Chairman by providing support to those that needed it the most.

Also,appreciating the First Lady is Miss Tolu who is one of the patient, she thanked Mrs Ashima for her show of love and magnanimity she has shown to them.She however, pray that God Almighty give the chairperson and her husband more higher opportunities to do more.

Mrs. Ashima was accompanied during the visit by Hon. Mrs Rachael Ede and members of the National Council of Women Society (NCWS) Warri North Chapter led by Mrs Thelma Ede and top Management Staff of the council including the HOD Community/Information, Mrs Hellen Bamidele.

Over 9,000 Athletes Storm Ogun for National Sports Festival as NSC Boss Olopade Talks Tough on Doping

By Azuka Chiemeka

The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has declared the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun State as one of the most impressive in recent history, with a record-breaking 9,040 athletes and officials accredited for the biennial event.

Speaking to journalists in Abeokuta, the state capital, Olopade expressed satisfaction with the level of participation and the overall organization of the festival, describing it as a significant step forward for sports development in Nigeria.

“This is a historic outing,” Olopade said. “In the last 20 years, we haven’t seen this level of athlete welfare and professionalism. For the first time in recent memory, athletes are arriving at their hostels and being properly fed and accommodated without chaos.”

According to him, all athletes and officials are being housed at Babcock University, one of the festival’s major accommodation hubs. He praised the host facilities, noting that the high level of preparation has significantly contributed to the smooth running of the games.

The NSC boss also highlighted the quality of competition witnessed so far, pointing to standout performances in various sporting events.

“I just returned from Sagamu and Babcock, and I must say the standard of play has been phenomenal. Kaduna versus Niger in basketball was world-class, and the handball clash between Niger and Kano was equally impressive,” he stated.

Olopade revealed that three London-based boxers representing Kaduna State were among the standout athletes, describing their involvement as a clear sign of the festival’s growing prestige and appeal beyond Nigerian borders.

While applauding the Ogun State Government for its outstanding efforts in hosting the festival, Olopade noted that the opening ceremony had received widespread praise from within and outside Nigeria, describing it as “a spectacle worthy of international recognition.”

However, amidst the celebrations, Olopade took time to address the issue of drug abuse in sports. He confirmed that a number of athletes had been expelled from the festival due to doping violations, reiterating the Commission’s commitment to clean sports.

“We have zero tolerance for drug use in sports,” he warned. “Athletes found to have violated anti-doping rules have already been shown the way out. We are determined to maintain the integrity of this championship.”

He stressed that the Commission is working closely with relevant anti-doping agencies to ensure that all participants are screened and monitored according to international standards.

Olopade also extended his appreciation to the journalists covering the festival, commending them for their dedication and accurate reporting, which he said is vital to the success and credibility of the event.

“This festival is a collective effort,” he said. “From the athletes to the organizers, officials, and the media, everyone has played a part in making this a success story.”

As the festival continues, the NSC boss called on Nigerians to visit the various sporting centres and support their states, urging all participants to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and fair competition.

**Offers Discounted flight Fares, to boost  Regional Growth Vision

Overland Airways, Nigeria’s longest-serving private domestic airline, has officially resumed flight operations to Warri (Osubi Airport), Delta State from Lagos and Abuja. This strategic move, which marks a significant step toward revitalizing regional air connectivity, was unveiled during a press briefing held at the Osubi Airport on Tuesday, May 20.

Speaking at the event, Chief Operating Officer of Overland Airways, Mrs. Aderonke Emmanuel-James, said the airline’s return to Warri is in response to persistent calls from passengers for reliable and consistent air services linking Delta State to Nigeria’s major cities. “This flight will support important economic and social linkages between the people of Delta State and other parts of Nigeria,” she noted.

Overland Airways will operate thrice-weekly flights on the Warri-Lagos-Warri and Warri-Abuja-Warri routes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The flight schedules are designed to support morning arrivals and departures: Lagos to Warri departs at 8:15 a.m., Warri to Lagos at 12:30 p.m.; Warri to Abuja at 9:25 a.m., and Abuja to Warri at 11:05 a.m.

The airline is deploying its new 88-seater Embraer E175 jet on the Warri route, offering both Premium and Economy Class cabins. Known for its comfort and cutting-edge technology, the Embraer jet underscores Overland’s evolution from an all-turboprop fleet to a modern, mixed fleet.

To stimulate demand and boost air travel from Warri, Overland Airways has introduced attractive fare discounts and enhanced passenger services. “We are launching with incentives that make flying more accessible, while maintaining our premium onboard experience,” Mrs. Emmanuel-James stated.

She further emphasized that the decision to scale operations up to daily flights will be based on passenger demand. “We express our appreciation to the Management and Staff of Osubi Airport for their support and assure our customers of the consistent and reliable flight services that Overland Airways is known for,” she added.

Osubi Airport Manager, Mr. Winston Egwuatu, who also addressed journalists at the event, reaffirmed the airport’s readiness for full-scale operations. He highlighted the partnership with Overland Airways as a step forward in strengthening Delta State’s air travel infrastructure and economic outlook.

Overland Airways’ recent expansion also includes restored services to Jalingo, Taraba State, and new routes to Minna, Niger State, as part of its broader domestic growth strategy. The airline, established in 2002, recently renewed its IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification for the fifth consecutive time—solidifying its status as one of Africa’s safest carriers.

Mrs. Emmanuel-James concluded by affirming the airline’s willingness to collaborate with the Delta State Government and other stakeholders to ensure that Warri becomes a major hub for regional air travel in Nigeria.

Ughelli North Council boss, Egbo vows to deliver dividends of democracy, urges critics to be factual

The Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Olorogun Jaro Egbo has carefully traversed serially all allegations laid against his administration, urging critics to criticise with facts, just as he reeled out his achievements with committed to transparency, accountability and good governance to the people of Ughelli North.

Egbo, a Senior lawyer made this revelation during a press briefing and a tour of some projects with Journalists.

The Anglican Knight trashed all allegations levelled against him by some members of his family and public over alleged misconduct and financial misappropriations.

Egbo said that It has become imperative to address the recent wave of false, malicious, and unfounded allegations against him.

“The deliberate spread of misinformation, is a calculated attempt to tarnish my reputation, discredit my administration, and cast aspersions on the government of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

“Let it be known that I will not be deterred by falsehood and character assassination, reckless and defamatory actions that pose a serious threat to public trust and governance.” He said.

Accordingly, Egbo added, “My focus remains on delivering effective governance and upholding the principles of integrity and service to the people just as I remain steadfast in my commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.

“I am confident that a thorough and objective review of this matter will expose the baseless nature of these allegations”

On contract award, he noted, “Let it be unequivocally stated that Skyviaro Properties Development Company Limited, is not a registered contractor with the local government and has not been awarded any contract, and is not personally owned or operated by me.

“I resigned from any involvement with the said company, and there has been no breach of due process or statutory guidelines in any contract awards under my administration.

“I call on relevant authorities to immediately rein in to prevent further embarrassment to the government and unnecessary tension among the people.

“Should this orchestrated smear campaign persist, I reserve the right to pursue legal action against whoever that is involved and his employer in my personal capacity.

“Let it be known that I will not be deterred by falsehood and character assassination. My focus remains on delivering effective governance and upholding the principles of integrity and service to the people.” He noted.

The council boss said that his 10-month-old administration is committed to completing ongoing projects in the local government area

These projects, he said include the renovation of his office and that of the vice chairman, leader of the house, S.L.G, H.P.M and the total renovation of the councilors’ offices and council secretariat.

According to him, he purchased eight (8) official vehicles for principal officers, stating that the construction of a children cottage hospital in Ughelli metropolis was also ongoing.

Egbo said that his administration was also carrying out the construction of doctors and nurses quarters in the children hospital, construction of ultra-modern storey building secretariat, saying that plans were underway to build either a police station or a customary court in each of the seven kingdoms in the local government.

He said further that his administration has commenced the project of solar power electrification of the chairman’s office and a solar security light for the entire secretariat premises.

While he disclosed that he has already procured the first batch of 300 writing desk/ benches for primary and secondary schools in Ughelli North, he said that he has also purchased and installed a 500KVA transformer in Ekrabovwe Quarter.

On his alleged suspension by his Abovwe family, Egbo who denied allegation levelled against him said, “Let it be known that these allegations are completely false and far from reality.

“The Abovwe family remains firmly and unequivocally behind our son, and we will not allow misinformation to tarnish his reputation or the integrity of our family.

“The purported suspension document, which has been making rounds on social media, is nothing more than a fraudulent fabrication.

“None of the recognized Abovwe Family Executive Committee members endorsed it. Instead, it bears the signatures of individuals who, quite frankly, did not comprehend what they were signing.

“We have traced the origins of these false claims to personal grievances against Chairman Egbo by one signatory, a 70-year-old elder brother sought appointment as LEA Chairman but was denied due to concerns over nepotism.

“Another key figure behind these rumours, Mr. Gowon Egoide, who continues to present himself as family Chairman despite his tenure having long expired.

“We have uncovered that Egoide and certain former executive members are attempting to divert attention from serious accusations regarding the unauthorized sale of family land at Ighwreovie and along Jaro Egbo Road.” He added.

The visible angry Egbo showed Journalists a message from the Abovwe family.

It read, “Today, in a show of unprecedented solidarity, the Abovwe family has unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Jaro Egbo and let it be known, and let it be heard loud and clear.

“We, the Abovwe family of Abovwe Quarter in Uduere Community, Ughelli, stand united behind Olorogun Jaro Egbo, any rumor of his suspension or excommunication is not only false but impossible.

“We urge the public to disregard these malicious claims and stand with us in defending the truth as It did not happen, it could not have happened, and it will never happen.” It added.

International Friendlies: Madugu invites Nnadozie, Ajibade, Payne, 20 others for Cameroon

Super Falcons’ Head Coach Justine Madugu has invited a total of 23 players, among them captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Michelle Alozie, midfielder Toni Payne and forward Rinsola Babajide, for the upcoming two friendly matches against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon.

There are also defenders Osinachi Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin and Shukurat Oladipo, midfielders Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini, and forwards Ifeoma Onumonu and Francisca Ordega.

The Falcons and the Lionesses will face off at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo on Saturday, 31st May, before a second confrontation at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Tuesday, 3rd June.

While the Falcons will use the matches as part of their preparations for the 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations taking place in Morocco, 5th – 26th July, the Lionesses will use the games to stay in shape for future challenges, having failed to qualify for this year’s Women AFCON finals.

All invited 23 players have been directed to arrive at the Am2pm Hotel in Ijebu-Ode on Monday, 26th May.

Nine-time champions Nigeria (they also won the two non-tournament-format competitions in 1991 and 1995) will be up against Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana in group B of the 13th Women AFCON in Morocco.

SUPER FALCONS FOR LIONESSES’ CHALLENGE:

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC, France); Linda Jiwuaku (Bayelsa Queens); Morufa Ademola (Edo Queens)

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Rofiat Imuran (London City Lionesses, England); Sikiratu Isah (Nasarawa Amazons); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey); Miracle Usani (Edo Queens); Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens)

Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid, Spain); Deborah Abiodun (Dallas Trinity, USA); Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France); Josephine Mathias (Nasarawa Amazons); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal); Amarachi Odoma (Edo Queens)

Forwards: Toni Payne (Everton Ladies, England); Francisca Ordega (Ittihad Ladies Club, Saudi Arabia); Olamide Bolaji (Remo Stars Ladies); Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier FC, France); Omorinsola Babajide (Coasta Adeje Tenerife Egatesa (Spain); Emem Essien (Edo Queens)

Diri’s administration accused of allegedly orchestrating arrest of social media influencer, Reigneth

**As Turnah, Bayelsa PDP Wants Unconditional Release Of Social Media activist

The governor and government of Bayelsa State led by Senator Douye Diri has been accused of allegedly orchestrating the arrest of Bayelsa State Social Media Activist, Miss Awudumu Reigneth through frivolous charges.

The George Turnah-led Caretaker Committee of the Bayelsa State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has also vehemently condemned what it alleged was an ‘unlawful arrest’ and ‘detention’ of a social media influencer and its dedicated member, Miss Awudumu Reigneth.

The Party in a press statement by the State Publicity Secretary, Mr Derri Alasuote Wright also described Reigneth as a political activist, saying the disturbing development stems from alleged trumped-up charges, including cyberbullying, purportedly fueled by her right to free speech and expression.

The Statement read in parts: “Miss Awudumu has been an unwavering supporter of our party in Ogbia Local Government Area and played a pivotal role in the success of our campaigns during the 2019 elections and the recent 2023 re-election of Governor Douye Diri.

“We’ aware that the arrest and detention of Reigneth is orchestrated by the Diri administration simply because of her membership of the ‘NEW Associates’ Political Structure, a grassroot based political movement for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and her involvement in the recent mega rally by the group loyal to the Honourable Minister of FCT, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike CON, where she serves as the Director General of the NEW Media Team.

“These anti-democratic credentials of Governor Diri are becoming a concern to the PDP in Bayelsa State as we view them as deliberately designed to demarket and weaken the PDP in the state ahead of 2027 General Elections.

“Governor Diri is working hard to destroy and kill the PDP in Bayelsa State ahead of his planned defection to the APC, which we’re aware is already concluded.

“We’ll not allow him or anyone else to destroy or kill our party, the PDP, in Bayelsa State.

“We wish to remind Governor Diri that we’re in a democracy, and we will not allow any form of dictatorship or tyranny.

“As a leader whose upkeep is funded through taxpayers’ money, he is not a lord over the people of Bayelsa State, but rather a servant.

“Governor Diri should learn from leaders like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former President Goodluck Jonathan, who have faced public scrutiny and outright abuse on social media throughout their political careers.

“Despite this, the duo of former President Jonathan and President Tinubu have remained tolerant and accommodating even with the enormous powers at their disposal as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

Meanwhile, the Turnah-led PDP CTC has also said it has noted a display of organized hatred toward the people of Ogbia and the entire Bayelsa East Senatorial District by Governor Diri and his administration.

“This troubling trend is evident with the dismissal of over 27 aides from the Bayelsa East area. And now with the arrest and detention of Miss Reigneth Awudumu, this approach mirrors the same treatment meted out to a notable social commentator Dr. John Idumange, who also hails from Bayelsa East Senatorial District and faced similar oppressive tactics from Governor Diri and his handlers.

“We reaffirm our call for the immediate and unconditional release of Miss Awudumu Reigneth.

“The PDP, led by our Caretaker Committee Chairman, Barr. George Turnah stands firmly against these tactics of intimidation and repression.

“We’ll not stand idly by as the fundamental rights of our members, and indeed, Bayelsans are trampled upon.

“We urge Governor Diri to immediately retrace his steps as failure to heed our call for the release of Miss Reigneth will compel us to escalate our actions, including considering the options of expelling him from our party.

“We appeal to all well-meaning citizens, civil society organizations, and advocacy groups to join us in defending the rights of individuals and safeguarding our democracy. It is vital that we unite against repression and uphold the values of free speech and democratic governance.

“In solidarity, we demand justice for Miss Awudumu Reigneth and an end to the culture of fear orchestrated by the Diri administration”, the Party added.

Diri Congratulates NWFL Champions, Bayelsa Queens

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has praised the tenacity of the state-sponsored Bayelsa Queens after emerging champions of the 2025 National Women Football League (NWFL).

The Prosperity Girls on Saturday trounced Naija Ratels 4-1 in the last game of the Super Six playoffs, coming tops with 10 points from five matches.

The team clinched the female league title for a record sixth time, dethroning defending champions, Edo Queens, which played goalless with Nasarawa Amazons in their final game.

Governor Diri, in a congratulatory message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, on Sunday, said Bayelsa Queens were worthy champions as they were unbeaten in 14 games during the regular season and lost just once during the Super Six.

“On behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, I congratulate the worthy champions of the 2024/2025 female league in our country. As a government, we are very proud of this achievement.

“The team has again showed that with hard work, focus and determination, it could surmount challenges.

“I particularly salute the resilience of our girls in maintaining an unbeaten run throughout the regular season. The victory is a fitting reward for their effort and we are indeed proud of them.

“I commend the Commissioner for Sports, Daniel Igali, Coach Ogbonda Whyte and the technical crew as well as the players for a job well done.”

The sports-loving governor urged the team not to rest on their laurels as they prepare for another attempt to conquer the continent.

Diri also charged the girls to remain focused on the assignment ahead and that the state government would arrange a formal reception for the victorious team.

Bayelsa Queens picked the ticket to represent Nigeria in the 2025 CAF Women Champions League three years after it first did in the 2022 edition in Morocco where it came third after winning the WAFU B zonal qualifiers in Ivory Coast.

Boro Day: Otuaro Champions Peace, Unity, and Expanded Amnesty

As the Ijaw Nation marked Boro Day on Thursday, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), High Chief (Dr.) Dennis Otuaro, has called on Niger Delta youths to embrace peace, unity, and collective vigilance for the future of the region.

Speaking at a gathering to commemorate the legacy of late Ijaw freedom fighter, Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, Dr Otuaro emphasized the importance of using intellectual engagement and governance participation as tools for advancing the struggle for resource control.

“Today, we are not just remembering Boro as a hero of the past, we are celebrating him as a father of the Ijaw nation whose spirit is alive with us. He laid the foundation for our fight for justice. Our elders fought differently, but today, we must channel our struggle through intellect, unity, and peace,” the PAP boss said.

Representing the federal government, Dr. Otuaro conveyed goodwill messages from President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser and stakeholders in the Presidential Amnesty Programme, assuring that the programme would be more inclusive going forward.

According to him; “Peace in our communities brings peace to our region. My appeal to our youth, kingdoms and clans is to uphold this peace. We must love one another, and even love our neighbours. Let us be vigilant, united, and committed to sustaining the calm we have”.

Reflecting on the progress made within his first year in office, Dr. Otuaro disclosed plans to broaden the scope of the Amnesty Programme to reach more beneficiaries.

He said that; “We currently have 30,000 people captured in the database, but this is not just about numbers. I am a product of the Niger Delta struggle, and I understand what this means for our people, our women, our mothers, and our children. The goal is to ensure no one is left out”.

Addressing critics and what he described as attempts at blackmail, Dr. Otuaro made it clear that the Amnesty Programme under his leadership would not be hijacked by personal interests.

In his words; “This programme is not for a few greedy individuals. It belongs to the people. I am focused on my mandate, and I will not be distracted by those who feel entitled. Everyone must be carried along in line with the purpose of the programme”.

**Cautions Govt on plan for State Creation

**Urges Federal Government not to politicize outcomes of  proposed National Population census

Okpe Union has called for the establishment of state police to stem the security challenges in most parts of Nigeria.

The Okpe Union on Friday May 16, 2025 advocated a better structure for Nigerian federalism which will reflect devolution of legislative and governmental powers in favour of the component units.

President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe, in a State of the Union Address said the Union was in close collaboration with other indigenous ethnic nationalities and national organizations, including the Movement for National Reformation (MNR) in crafting a new path for the restoration of federalism and good governance in Nigeria.

‘’Okpe is one of the more than 400 indigenous ethnic nationalities that constitute the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These indigenous ethnic nationalities, including Okpe, are the core federating units of Nigeria. Thus, like other indigenous ethnic nationalities, Okpe has a voice in determining the future of Nigeria’’

The Union called for the creation of homogeneous federating states for the 15 most populous ethnic nationalities that have contiguous boundaries, respectively.

‘’These federating units will be 15 homogeneous ethnic-based states for the Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Ijaw, Kanuri, Ibibio, Okpe, Tiv, etc.

It also called for the creation of a maximum of 15 heterogeneous (multi-ethnic) federating states for the other ethnic nationalities.

‘’An ethnic nationality occupying a defined contiguous boundary in a heterogeneous state shall constitute an autonomous region with due constitutional jurisdictions. It shall also have concurrent jurisdiction with the heterogeneous state over natural resources discovered in its territory; but shall exercise exclusive jurisdiction over primary and secondary education, culture, language, and traditional institutions, etc’’.

The Union further urged the Federal Government not to politicize the outcomes of the proposed National Population census

‘’Okpe Union calls for the proposed National Population Census to be conducted by employing best technology to avoid a repeat of the past where the outcomes were so politicized that many of the exercises did not command the confidence of many parts of the country and Nigerians as to their credibility’’.