Reconstruct Failed Road leading to Amuokpokpor-Elume, Community appeals to NDDC

Amuokpokpor-Elume community in Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, , has appealed to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to resume work on the collapsed road connecting the agrarian community to other parts of the council.

The community made the appeal while interacting with newsmen following their continuous complaints about the deplorable state of the road, loss of life, and paralysis of their economic activities just a year after its completion by the contractor.

Daniel Ogbodo, the community chairman, who recounted how the project commenced in 2020, alleged that the contractor used substandard materials to carry out the project, resulting in its outright failure after one year of completion.

According to the community chairman, the road constitutes a “death trap” owing to the presence of heaps of stones, exposed construction iron, and no drainage.

“At the project’s inception, the community was filled with jubilation, knowing the struggles residents had faced with poor road conditions for years. However, we were surprised that the newly constructed concrete paved road did not last a year before deteriorating, leaving the community in a worse state than before the contractor’s intervention.

Community elder Olu Majelele and Felix Emuobonuvie, President General of Elume District, urged NDDC to revisit the site and construct a good road, bemoaning the immense hardship resulting from the road’s deplorable condition.

They highlighted the challenges caused by the poor road conditions, including frequent falls and delayed vehicular movement.

“Currently, the Amuokpokpor road is almost impassable because the rods and other metal objects utilized in its construction has resurfaced. This has resulted in the bursting of motorcycle and vehicle tyres. Consequently, no one wants to ride their motorcycle or drive their vehicle into the village for fear of punctured tyres.

In the recent past, this road has been the site of a heartbreaking incident that led to the loss of our son, whose vehicle overturned, resulting in his instantaneous death. A visual inspection of the road, which was built less than five years ago, reveals the existence of multiple potholes. We humbly request that the NDDC deploy their site engineer to inspect the road and provide support to the Amuokpokpor-Elume community, as this road serves as the community’s sole access route, Majelele and Emuobonuvie submitted.

On behalf of the women in the community, Mrs. Mercy Izobo and Mrs. Bridget Emuobonuvie shared the difficulties they experienced in conveying their goods to market.

According to the women, the men and women of Amuokpokpor are involved in farming various crops, including cassava, rubber, timber, fishery, plantain, snails, yam, palm oil, among others, but encounter difficulties in marketing their processed products due to the prohibitive transportation costs, as drivers demand a hundred percent fare increase, attributing it to the bad road conditions, leading to spoilage of their farm produce at home.

Others who also spoke, including John Otuma, Samuel Izobo, Comedy Ogbodo, Richard Edi, among others, commended the NDDC for initiating the road project in their community, but appealed to them to address their concerns and complete the road project to transform the community landscape and enhance economic activities in the area.

Furthermore, they appealed to the NDDC to extend the road project to the riverbank, including a jetty and drainage system, to safeguard the riverine community against flooding resulting from heavy downpours and riverbank landslides.

Delta Govt. Insists on Decent Dressing, Warns against age falsification- Aniagwu

The Delta State Government has thrown its weight behind the ongoing screening of civil servants, warning that it will not condone falsification of age, abuse of leave of absence, or indecent dressing in the workforce.

Briefing journalists in Asaba, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the screening exercise was designed to sanitize the service and restore integrity.

He explained that many officers had manipulated their records by presenting unrealistic primary school certificates that made it appear as though they began school immediately after birth.

Aniagwu stated that the government would not reverse the decisions of the screening committee, especially on officers advised to proceed on retirement.

He added that those who had abused leave of absence by staying abroad for years while still drawing salaries from Delta State’s payroll would be removed, with steps taken to recover funds illegally earned.

“If there is anybody that has been advised by the screening committee to retire, government fully supports that decision,” Aniagwu said.

“We cannot continue to accommodate individuals who falsify their age or live abroad while collecting salaries meant for those working here.”

On the recently re-emphasized dress code for civil servants, Aniagwu said the rules were not new but anchored on provisions of the Civil Service Rules, particularly section 04314 on page 42.

He noted that just as every profession has an expected mode of dressing, the civil service requires its workforce to appear decent and corporate.

“When you come to work in spaghetti straps or slippers, you demean the image of the service. The civil service is not a free party where people can dress as they please,” he stressed.

“We are not telling you how to dress at home, in church, or at nightclubs. But during official hours, we expect decency.”

Aniagwu argued that enforcing the dress code was about protecting the image of the government and ensuring respect for public institutions.

Reiterating the administration’s commitment to reforms, he said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s government will continue to uphold discipline, transparency, and professionalism in the civil service as part of its MORE Agenda.

**God has been faithful to us- Rev. Dr. Imeleye

By: Celestine Ukah 

The Immediate Past President, Providence-Delta Baptist Conference (PDBC), Rev. Dr. Nathan Doutimiwei Thikan, says genuine love for God is the master key for Unlimited Breakthrough for every believer of God’s word.

Rev. Dr. Thikan made this prophetic declaration on Sunday, September 14, during the Foursquare Gospel Church, Ekpan District Headquarters 7th District Convocation program.

Dr. Thikan, who was a guest minister at the service, centered his message on the theme of the program titled “Unlimited Breakthrough,” noting that in life, advancement is unlimited breakthrough and that unlimited breakthrough means unending.

The man of God stated further that when there are innovations, it is a breakthrough, using Isaac in the Bible as an example of flourishing despite the famine in his time.

While ministering, Dr. Thikan revealed that breakthrough is the identity of the believer, adding that to be redeemed is to be in the lane of unlimited breakthrough. He also posited that unlimited breakthroughs are beyond the senses.

According to the former Providence Baptist Conference (PDBC) President, Rev. Dr. Thikan, the Spirit of the Lord triggers unlimited breakthrough, even as he defines knowledge as “the acquisition of facts,” while “understanding is the interpretation of the facts,” and “wisdom is the application of facts.”

Dr. Thikan took his Bible text from 2 Corinthians 2:6-9, Isaiah 64:4, Isaiah 45:1-3, 1 Samuel 16:3, Romans 8:35-39, Isaiah 60:20, John 9:1-8, Revelation 3:7-8, and several other scriptures.

The host and District Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church, Ekpan District Headquarters, Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Imeleye, said he is grateful to God and that thanking God is always good for what God has been doing for them in the church.

Rev. Dr. Imeleye, who oversees Foursquare Gospel Churches in Bomadi, Burutu, Patani, and other riverine areas, commended members for their support and prayed to God to grant all safe returns to their destinations.

General Omu for Burial Nov. 29, Ex-Delta SSG, Macaulay, Chairs Burial Committee

Former Military Governor of the South-Eastern State, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd), OFR, rcds will be laid to rest on Saturday, November 29, 2025, in his hometown of Igbide, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

General Omu, who passed on April 29, 2025 at the age of 84, was a distinguished military officer, statesman, and community leader. A former member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council and one-time Commandant of the Command and Staff College, Jaji, he was renowned for his strategic roles in the Nigerian Army and his pivotal contributions to Nigeria’s governance and democratic transition.

The funeral ceremonies will begin on Thursday, November 20, 2025 with a Service of Songs at All Saints Church, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, followed by a commemoration service on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at St. Philips Anglican Church, Asaba. A lecture will hold on Thursday, November 27, 2025 at Isoko House, Oleh, while lying-in-state and service of songs will take place on Friday, November 28, in his home town Igbide, Isoko South LGA of Delta State.

The final rites on Saturday, November 29, 2025 will commence with a lying-in-state at his residence, Ufuoma House, Igbide, before a funeral service at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Igbide. This will be followed immediately by a civic reception to entertain guests at Igbide Grammar School, Igbide.A thanksgiving service is scheduled for Sunday, November 30, 2025 at the same church.

In recognition of his contributions to the development of Isoko ethnic nationality and the nation at large, a broad-based burial planning committee has been inaugurated, with former Secretary to the Delta State Government, Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, serving as Chairman and President General of Igbide Community Development Association, Ven. Hon. Augustine Aziakpono Ovie as Secretary. The committee comprises the family, prominent figures from the military, politics, academia, and the Isoko nation, with subcommittees overseeing security, media, protocol, accommodation, entertainment, tributes, finance, and other arrangements.

General Omu’s distinguished career spanned military, political, and community service. As Military Governor of the South-Eastern State from 1975 to 1978, he initiated key infrastructural and policy reforms that laid the foundation for regional growth. His later roles included chairing the Governing Board of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in 2009.

Beyond public service, he was deeply involved in community development, notably serving as President of the Isoko Development Union between 2014 and 2015, where he championed unity, education, and economic empowerment.

The Olodi of Igbide Kingdom and Othuke of Isoko Land, General Omu is remembered as a man of vision, diplomacy, and enduring legacy in both national and community service.

NWFL: Sunshine Queens Dismantle Fortress Ladies 3–0 in Championship Opener

By: Michael Akintunde

Sunshine Queens FC of Ondo State announced their arrival at the Championship Playoffs in Umuahia in grand style, cruising past Fortress Ladies of Benin with a convincing 3–0 victory in their first match of the campaign.

The tie, played under a lively atmosphere, saw the Akure-based side display fluid attacking football, pressing high, and capitalizing on their opponents’ defensive lapses.

The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Adenuga Oluwabunmi finished off a well-weighted pass from Lolade Akintunde, sending the Sunshine Queens’ supporters into jubilation.

Just six minutes later, the Ondo girls doubled their lead after Mirabel Irabor calmly slotted home from close range following an intelligent assist from Mistura Olamilekan in the 33rd minute.

The second half witnessed Fortress Ladies trying to claw their way back into the contest, but Sunshine Queens maintained defensive discipline and composure in midfield.

The decisive blow arrived in the 66th minute when Bolaji Azeez was fouled inside the penalty box. Precious Edewor stepped up confidently to convert the spot kick, sealing the victory at 3–0.

It was not all rosy for Sunshine Queens, however, as both Lucky Victory and Lolade Akintunde picked up yellow cards in the second half following overzealous challenges .

Head coach Oseni Rafiu responded by refreshing his squad late on, introducing Amos Foluke, Adeleke Ganiyat, and Faith Oyewole to see out the game with fresh legs.

At the final whistle, the Ondo State–sponsored side had shown grit, flair, and determination, sending a clear message of intent to their rivals. With three points secured and a clean sheet to boast of, attention now shifts to their next crucial fixture against Unification FC of Lagos, where Sunshine Queens will seek to maintain their winning momentum.

**Targets provision of portable drinking water, healthcare, vocational training, Others worth 10 million Naira

**Eramah of Ancient Anwain Kingdom pledges support

By: Celestine Ukah 

Rotarian Malik Abubakar has been installed as the 16th President of the Rotary Club of Osubi in Okpe LGA, Delta State.

The investiture of Rotarian Malik Abubakar was held at Osubi on Saturday, September 13. The newly installed president’s event attracted dignitaries from District 9141 of Rotary Nigeria, including Past Assistant Governors, Rotaractors, as well as His Royal Majesty, the Eramah of Ancient Anwain Kingdom, Edo State, represented by the Oniha of Anwain Kingdom, High Nurudeen Oluoboh.

His Royal Majesty, the Eramah of Ancient Anwain Kingdom in Etsako West LGA, Edo State, through the Oniha of Ancient Anwain Kingdom, expressed deep support for the 16th Rotary Club of Osubi President, Rotn. Abubakar, who is a proud son of Anwain Kingdom.

In his welcome address, President of the Rotary Club of Osubi, Rotn. Malik Abubakar, said he is going to work in line with Rotary International’s Seven Areas of Focus, which include: Promoting Peace, Providing Clean Water, Supporting Education, Fighting Diseases, Growing Local Economies, Saving Mothers and Children, and Supporting the Environment.

According to Rotn. Malik Abubakar, the theme for the Rotary year is ‘Unite For Good’, and it reflects the collective commitment to creating lasting change in communities.

“On Community Development Projects, the 16th Rotary Club of Osubi President, Rotn. Malik Abubakar, appealed for financial support for the following projects:

“1. Provision of delivery kits to expectant mothers: ₦850,000

“2. Environmental sanitation and sustainability: ₦1,000,000

“3. Financial support for 20 petty traders: ₦2,000,000

“4. Back to school project: ₦1,500,000

“5. Peace and conflict resolution advocacy/vocational training: ₦1,000,000

“6. Provision of portable drinking water to communities in our catchment areas: ₦2,000,000

“7. Medical outreach to Okere Correctional Centre: ₦1,000,000

Total Estimated Budget: ₦9,350,000

“Your generous support will help us make these life-changing projects a reality. Every contribution—large or small—will go a long way in touching lives and strengthening our community.

“Call to Action

“I invite every member to contribute their unique skills and perspectives to our endeavors. Together, we will create positive change and make our community a better place.

“Appreciation

I would like to thank our outgoing officers and directors for their dedication and service. Your mentorship and continued involvement are invaluable to our club’s success.

“Let’s work together to make this year unforgettable. With gratitude and enthusiasm, I look forward to serving with each of you. Thank you.

“Yours in Rotary Service,

“Rotarian Malik Abubakar

“President, Rotary Club of Osubi.”

How to get a Nigerian Tax ID before Jan. 2026 deadline for bank account holders

If you own a bank account in Nigeria, you’ll soon need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to operate it. This new requirement comes into effect on January 1, 2026, as mandated by the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025. This represents a major shift in the country’s tax administration and has significant implications for all individuals with a bank account in Nigeria.

However, obtaining a Tax ID is now a straightforward process that can be completed for free. For many people, a Tax ID may have already been generated based on your Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN).

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Tax ID
The process is designed to be simple and accessible, ensuring you can comply with the new law without a hassle.

Step 1: Verify if you already have a Tax ID

Visit the official Joint Tax Board (JTB) TIN Verification Portal at https://tin.jtb.gov.ng.
Select the “Search for TIN” option.
Enter your BVN and Date of Birth to check if a Tax ID has been automatically assigned to you.

Step 2: Register for a new Tax ID (if you don’t have one)

If your search on the verification portal does not yield a result, you will need to register for a new Tax ID.
Go to the JTB TIN Registration Portal by following this link
Select the “Register for TIN” option for individuals.
Fill out the required information, including your BVN, NIN, and other personal details.
Submit the form and follow the instructions to get your Tax ID certificate.

The entire process is free of charge. You can download and print your Tax ID certificate once it is issued. It is highly recommended to complete this process well before the January 2026 deadline to ensure uninterrupted access to your banking and financial services.

Friendly: Best Talent Record another Victory, Humble Future Bright 2-0 at Redemption City

Sunday Agunbiade (Mr VAR)

The Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO1) side, Best Talent FC of Mowe made another stunning and resounding statement with 2-0 pre-season victory over Future Bright Football Club at Redemption City Temple Arena, Mowe, Ogun State today, Wednesday, 3rd September, 2025.

It was a game of two half victory for the Mowe outfits as Jamiu and Aregbesola found the back of the net at 38 and 74 minutes of the much energy sapping encounter. The Farouk Yusuf tutored lads were more cohesive and distributive putting their counterparts below par .

Speaking after the match, Coach Farouk, who has become a prominent figure in grassroots football, was full of praise for his team’s performance but made it clear that there’s much more to come.

“The fans have not seen anything yet,” he said confidently. “This team is still in its embryo stage. What you witnessed today is only a glimpse of what we are building ahead of the new season. ”

Farouk, whose coaching résumé includes stints with Magate FC, Fackson Tofido, and Coca-Cola Junior School, has now led his side to the second consecutive victory within the spate of four days at the Redemption Temple Arena.

“I give big kudos to my players and the entire crew for doing a wonderful job today,” he said. “They all stuck to the instructions, internalized our tactical inputs, and neutralized the opposition right from the whistle. I am very proud of them.”

Farouk also praised the club’s leadership and support staff, emphasizing the importance of teamwork both on and off the pitch.

“My Chairman is a man of many parts and influence. The entire management team, medical staff, and media crew are all instrumental in making this happen,” he noted. “Football is all about teamwork, and I hope we can continue to sustain and even increase the tempo.”

As Best Talent FC looks ahead to the NLO1 season, Farouk remains focused on building a team capable of not just competing but dominating.

“We are still building this team. Once it reaches the level we desire, victories like today’s will become the norm,” he concluded.

With such a strong start to their pre-season and a coach determined to take them to the top, Best Talent FC fans have every reason to be excited for what’s to come.

Just In: Ocean Surge: Water is the biggest challenge of Ilaje- Awala

By: Celestine Ukah 

An Indigene of Ilaje- Community in Ondo State, Pa. Bayo Awala has lamented that the biggest challenge facing Ilaje-Community in Ondo State is portable drinking water and the ocean surge in the area.

Pa. Awala while in a live interview on AIT Kakaaki morning show Friday September 12 described the Ocean Surge destruction and imminent relocation of the community as threatening and about making them without homeland

Pa. Awala a veteran film maker and producer of the video headmaster said the Ocean Surge affecting Ilaje- Community begun over 60 years ago and that the current governor of Ondo State Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa has also moved to higher land due to the challenge.

He’s appealing to the government and international community to come to their aid.