Super Eagles Captain Ahmed Musa, Shehu Abdullahi Condole SWAN Kano Chairman Zaharaddeen over demise of his father
By: Muzammil Dalha
Super Eagles Captain Ahmed Musa MON, OON and Shehu Abdullahi paid a condolences visit to the SWAN Kano State Chapter Chairman Comrade Zaharaddeen Sale on the death of his biological father Alhaji Sale Yakubu last week Thursday. The visit was a gesture of support and solidarity from the football community to the grieving family.
During the visit on Tuesday February 20, 2024, Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi expressed their deepest condolences to Comrade Zaharaddeen Sale and his family. They prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased and grant the family the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Their heartfelt condolences and prayers were a source of comfort and solace to the mourning family.
Ahmed Musa was accompanied by the National SWAN Ex-Officio in charge of Northwest, Rilwanu Idris Malikawa Garu. Their presence highlighted the unity and camaraderie within the sports community, as they came together to offer their support during a time of great sadness.
Comrade Zaharaddeen Sale expressed his gratitude for the visit and the kind words of Ahmed Musa, Shehu Abdullahi, and Rilwanu Idris Malikawa Garu. The presence of these sports personalities was a testament to the bond and brotherhood that exists within the sports fraternity.
The condolences visit by Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi to the SWAN Kano State Chapter Chairman Comrade Zaharaddeen Sale was a poignant moment that highlighted the unity and solidarity within the sports community. Their gesture of support and sympathy was truly appreciated by the grieving family and was a testament to the compassion and empathy that exists within the sports fraternity. May the soul of Alhaji Sale Yakubu rest in peace.
Otone Ogodo layout election: Completion of ongoing security/ Secretariat building, consolidating on peace & unity among landlords. others among our 4 points focus- Nurudeen Oluoboh assures
The Otone Ogodo landlords Association has reelected incumbent Chairman of the layout Evang. Engr. Nurudeen Oluoboh as chairman to continually pilot the affairs of the layout. In the next two years..
The election which was conducted Sunday February 18, 2024 during the Otone Ogodo landlords Association, Annual General Meeting, AGM, witnessed the return of most of the exco members unopposed in order for them to. sustain their service to the advancement of the layout.
The reelected Chairman, Evang. Engr. Nurudeen Oluoboh on behalf of the other executive members in his acceptance speech assured that he will focus on four point agenda which include Completion of ongoing security/ Secretariat building, consolidating on peace & unity among landlords, Proposed a mandatory levy of 10,000 Naira Annually for drainage and road maintenance as well as to strengthen the architecture in the layout among other development projects.
Engr. Nurudeen Oluoboh solicited for the support of the layout landlords and tenants in order for the administration to succeed , according to him “We Need Your Support Because You Elected Us To Serve And For The Progress Of The Layout, I assure you that this executive shall improve on our service and do more to uplift the layout to more enviable heights for others to emulate”. He stated.
He as well commended the landlords for their support and cooperation in his first term, urging them to sustain it. Just as he also stressed the need for all stakeholders to remain united and seek better ways to come key into the four point agenda of the administration and also give fresh ideas on how to input additional value to the growth of the area and for the betterment of Jeddo as a community, Okpe LGA and Delta State at large.
The newly elected Otone Ogodo layout landlords Association executive to pilot its affairs in the next two years are mandate term are:
10th Anniversary: Advocate Publication Focuses on Inaugural Lecture on Youth Empowerment & Leadership Evolution
Advocate Publication Lecture Series Board of Council (ALSBC), Chaired by Mr. Abraham Ogbodo, former Editor of Guardian has instituted a public lecture series as part activities marking Advocate Newspaper 10th year in business.
The Advocate Lecture Board of Council parades other seasoned journalists including Mr Yafugborhi Egufe (Vanguard Newspaper) – Head, Planning; Mr Onojeghen Okpare Theophilu, Anipri, (CEO, Niger Delta Today Online) – Head, Contacts and Logistics; Akpobaro Umukoro Esq. (Former Station Manager, AIT) – Head, Legal; Hon. Justice Iyasere (Independent Newspaper) – Head, Research and Documentation.
Other members of the board are; Mr Emmanuel Enebeli, Anipri, (CEO of Bell Media Consult Ltd) – Head, Finance; Mr. Fredrick Umuerure (Crown FM Warri/Asaba) -Head, Media/Publicity; while Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, Anipri (CEO of Advocate Publication Ltd) serves as the Secretary-General.
The ALSBC in a statement issued and signed by its Secretary-General, Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, said the board is pleased to announce its inaugural lecture series on the theme “Youth Empowerment and Leadership Evolution: Rethinking Nigeria’s Leadership Recruitment Process.”
Advocate Publication Ltd takes pride in promoting intellectual discourse and fostering meaningful conversations on issues of nation building.
“This landmark event is part of the activities marking the 10th Anniversary of Advocate Newspaper and will take place April 17th, 2024, at the prestigious Wetland Hotel in Ughelli, Delta State.
“The Advocate Publication Ltd Lecture Series Board of Council (ALSBC) is excited to host this significant event which aims at fostering critical discussions on empowering Nigeria’s youth and rejigging the process of leadership recruitment in our country.
“As we celebrate a decade of providing insightful journalism and impactful storytelling through Advocate Newspaper, we recognize the importance of engaging in thought-provoking conversations that address the pressing issues facing our society.
“The inaugural lecture series will feature distinguished speakers, including renowned scholars, policymakers, youth leaders, and civil society representatives, who will share their expertise and perspectives on youth empowerment and leadership evolution. The event will include keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions designed to stimulate dialogue and inspire innovative solutions.
Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, Secretary General of the Advocate Lecture Series Board of Council (ALSBC), expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating, “We are honored to host this inaugural lecture series as part of Advocate Newspaper’s 10th Anniversary celebrations. By bringing together thought leaders and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, we aim to catalyze positive change and drive progress towards a more inclusive and empowered society.”
The Advocate Publication’s Inaugural Lecture Series promises to be a unique event, bringing together stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond to explore strategies for empowering the youth and shaping the future of leadership in our country. We invite members of the media, government officials, academics, youth advocates, and the general public to join us for this important conversation.
You increased my justification support for financial autonomy for LGCs, Governor Oborevwori declares
**As he commissions Warri South Cottage Hospital
By: Celestine Ukah
Dr. Michael Tidi (left) conducting Governor Oborevwori round the newly commissioned cottage hospital, while The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo kingdom & other dignitaries observe
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, says the ultra-modern 30 bed cottage hospital built in the heart of Warri, by the Dr. Michael Tidi Administration of Warri South Local Government, is a good testament to why local government administration is needed and buttresses his support for financial autonomy for local government councils.
Photo-Grid of sections of the interior and exterior of Warri South Council Cottage Hospital
The Governor, who made the assertion Wednesday February 21, shortly before commissioning the healthcare edifice at the former playground in Upper Erejuwa Road, Warri, said the project pleased him, because it will advance health care at the grassroots, which is cardinal programme of his administration.
Governor Oborevwori, stated that Warri South Local Government Council, under the leadership of Dr. Michael Tidi, has performed very well, saying he expects the progress to be sustained by the next administration of the council.
A Cross Section of Itsekiri & Urhobo traditional dancers, entertaining during the commissioning
Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Dr. Michael Tidi, had in his opening address, noted that his administration made tremendous progress in the primary health care sector.
According to Dr. Tidi, from available statistics, Warri South Local Government Council under his leadership, was able to consistently and effectively carry out Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA) such as National Immunization Plus Days, Integrated Measles Campaigns (MC) and Yellow Fever Campaigns Outbreak Response, adding, “since 2020 till date, the coverage has improved tremendously.”
Dr. Michael Tidi (left) conducting Governor Oborevwori round the newly commissioned cottage hospital, while The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo kingdom & other dignitaries observe
Whilst noting that the recommendations from the two Warri Economic Summits organized by his administration, gave birth to some of the mind boggling people-oriented projects being witnessed in Warri South Local Government Area, Dr. Tidi, outlined the achievements of his administration, to include: “Complete renovation and painting of the main secretariat (Warri South Council Main Secretariat) building which included the Local Education Authority Building, Rehabilitation and renovation of Water scheme at Ode-Itsekiri, Ugbuwangue, Orere-Uluba, Omadino/Obodo, Usele, Orugbo, Ajamimogha, GRA and Esisi, Construction and sinking of borehole water scheme in the twenty (20) DSIEC wards of the LGA, Renovation of Ugbuwangue Modern Market hitherto built by DESOPADEC, Construction of 120 open market stalls at Ugbuwangue Modern Market, Purchase of two (2) refuse compact trucks, Renovation and furnishing of the legislative complex, Construction of perimeter fence at Ekurede Urhobo Primary Health Care, Purchase and distribution of six (6) fishing fiber boats and 15 HiP Yamaha Boat Center, Purchase of Computers and generator engine to cooperative societies, Rehabilitation of some very bad spots on our roads in Warri South Local Government Area, Purchase of Toyota Sienna 2011 Model for NULGE, Warri South Local Government Chapter, Perimeter fencing and renovation of Omadino Primary health care, painting kerbs, reactivation of some boreholes and opening of layout at Omadino, Rehabilitation of leaking roof/replacement of bad Aluminum roofing sheets plumbing works, electrical works and amendment/proper reconstruction of some sock away pits amendment to the cracked walls and floors in most of the Primary Health Care Centre, Re-construction of Warri South Local Government Lodge, Construction / donation of 200 polished desk and chairs to Ubeji Primary School, Construction and donation of 100 polished desk and chairs to Edjeba Primary School.
• Installation of solar street light at Okere-Urhobo Phase 2.
• Installation of solar street light at Bowen ward.
· Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Igbudu.
· Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Ukpokiti.
· Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Okere.
· Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at McDermott.
· Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Okpeki/Olodi.
· Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Pessu Road.
• Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Esisi Ward.
• Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Warri GRA.
• Construction / sinking of borehole (Water Scheme) at Mesharun Street.
• Renovation of Ajamimogha Town Hall.
• Construction of two (2) public toilets at Ode-Itsekiri.
• Construction of two (2) public toilets at Ugbuwangue.
• Construction of two (2) public toilets at Orugbo.
• Provision of 24 sets of classroom tables and chairs including painting / refurbishing of the classroom at Ogiame Primary School, Ekurede Itsekiri. at Ugbori/Ekurede Ward.
• Construction and donation of one (1) wooden boat with capacity of 100 persons to Ode-Itsekiti and adjoining communities.
• Procurement of Mercedes Benz 1513 tipper.
• Renovation of Agbarha Magistrate Court, including building of offices, toilet facilities, perimeter fencing, sand filling of the premises and installation of ceiling fans.
• Economic empowerment programme for 250 small scale business enterprises.
• Completion and furnishing of Omadino Primary Health Center / perimeter fencing of the facility.
• Total re-roofing of Urban Primary Health Center.
• Rebuilding of collapsed fence at Eboh Primary Health Center.
• Supplies of hospital equipment: Beds (10), BP Apparatus (10), Stethoscope (5), Examination Couch (5), Delivery Beds (5), Fetal Dopplers (15), Infrared Thermometer (10), Infant weighing scale (5), Body cots (5), instruments – Artery forceps of various sizes and shapes.
• Supports for various programmes both national state and local e.g. National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDS), Integrated Measles Campaigns (IMC) Malaria Programmes e.g. Distribution of insecticides treated nets (ITNS) Family Planning, Nutrition, TB Disease surveillance, etc.
• Support payments of non-technical voluntary staff in Health facilities and the
• Construction/furnishing of the New Warri South Local Government Council lodge.”
Dr. Tidi, added: “In the area of environment, my administration has not relented, as we have on a daily basis, ensured constant de-weeding, cleaning of the drainages and regular evacuation of waste to the dump site. Our modest efforts were recognized by the immediate and previous past State Commissioners of Environment, who had declared Warri South as the cleanest LGA in Delta State.
“I want to use this opportunity to on behalf of our people sincerely thank your Excellency for the construction of the flyover and the connecting roads in Warri that are already ongoing, the street lights and many more projects, that time would not permit me to mention here sir, the impact of your MORE Agenda are laudable.
“The beauty these projects are already bringing to Warri, is further changing the narratives of Warri for good.
“The Cottage Hospital you are about to commission was built for the purpose of efficient health care service delivery to our people. To put the facility to its optimum use, therefore, I appeal that you use your good offices to assist us with qualified medical personnel that could help put the facility to its maximum use, in order to achieve the desired purpose of bringing quality health care services closer to our people.”
Former Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmauel Uduaghan, in his remarks, commended Dr. Tidi for the project, saying he is delighted that the Erejuwa Playground has become health facility.
The Cottage Hospital, comprises Admin room, Card room, Nurse station, Male and female Wards, Private Ward, Pediatric Ward (for children) Chief Matron room, Labour Ward, Milking Station (for breastfeeding mothers) Recovery rooms, Main theatre, Scan rooms, Scrub and storage room (for staff) Theatre room, Treatment room, Lab, Chief Medical Consultancy and Conveniences.
The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, HRM Morris Ogheneochuko Eyekpimi, the Regent of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, the Vice Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Chief (Mrs.) Divine Ann Iniovosa, the member representing Warri South Constituency I in the Delta State House of Assembly, Dr. Augustine Uroye, representative of the member representing Warri South constituency II in Delta State House of Assembly, former three-time Chairman of Warri South Local Government and Warri South PDP Leader, Chief Joseph Otumara, Chief Israel Abido, Chief (Dr.) Roland Oritsejafor, Hon. Omimi Esquire, Hon. Kenneth Efejuku as well as Warri South PDP Chairman, Mr. Johnson Agbeyegbe, were among other prominent personalities that attended the colourful ceremony.
We’ve Uncovered over 30 Routes For Smuggling Food Out Of Nigeria- VP, Shettima
The Federal Government has uncovered 32 routes through which food items are smuggled out of the country.
Hoarding and smuggling have been identified as factors worsening the hardship in the land as they fuel increase in cost of commodities.
Speaking at a conference on Public Wealth Management held in Abuja, on Tuesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima said on the midnight of Sunday, 45 trucks loaded with maize were intercepted while making their way to neighbouring countries.
“Just three nights ago, 45 trucks of maize were caught being transported to neighbouring countries. Just in that Ilela axis, there are 32 illegal smuggling routes. And the moment those food stuff were intercepted, the price of maize came down by N10,000. It came down from N60,000 to N50,000.
“So, there are forces that are hell-bent on undermining our nation but this is the time for us to coalesce into a singular entity,” he said.
Shettima, who acknowledged that Nigeria is passing through turbulent time, assured the people of the country that the pain will not last forever.
“We have to make this country work. We have to move beyond politics. We are now in the face of governance. Sadly, some of our countrymen are still in the political mode. They are the practitioners of violence, advocating that Nigeria should go the Lebanon way. But, Nigeria is greater than anyone of us here. Nigeria will weather the storm.
“Forces are hell-bent on plunging this country into a state of anarchy. Those who could not get to power through the ballot box, instead for them to wait till 2027, are so desperate,” he said.
Last week, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) intercepted 15 trucks containing food items in Sokoto.
Abubakar Chafe, spokesperson, NCS in Sokoto, had said the vehicles were arrested along Gwadabawa-Illela road.
Chafe said the interceptions were made due to the quantity of the farm produce the trucks were carrying.
He said the trucks were currently in custody of the command and that an investigation had commenced to ascertain the owners and destinations of the food items.
He explained that the operation was carried out by a combined team of the NCS Sokoto Command, Officers of the Federal Operation Unit and the Intelligent Unit of the Service.
Ile-Ife: Lion kills Obafemi Awolowo University Zoological Park Staff
A nine year old lion has reportedly murdered Olabode Olawuyi, a staff member of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile-Ife Zoological Park.
A statement by the public relations officer of the University, Abiodun Olarewaju, confirming the incident said Olawuyi, until his death was a Veterinary Technologist, who had been in charge of the Zoological garden for over a decade.
He said: “Mr Olawuyi has been taking care of the lions since they were born on campus about 9 years ago but, tragically, the male lion killed the man who had been feeding them.
According to the statement, other members of staff who were at the scene of the incident did everything within their power to rescue their boss but the wild cat had already caused severe fatalities.
National Star reports that “The other members of staff who were at the scene of the incident did everything within their power to rescue their boss but the wild cat had already caused severe fatalities.”
“Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon BAMIRE, was informed, on arrival, by the Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre Dr. Tirimisiyu Olatunji, that all first aid and medical efforts to save the life of the victim proved abortive.
“Saddened by this tragic event, the aggressive Lion has been euthanized. The University management has sent a delegation to the widow and children of the deceased, imploring them to take solace in God who gives life and also has the power to take life.”
The varsity spokesman said the management had ordered a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the incident.
Awards, Rewards Given to Super Eagles By President Tinubu Is Justified says Hon. Essien
Aboluwade God’s Treasure, AGT
It was another exciting and interesting interview on popular personalities-filled sports platform, *Sports World* and this time,the distinguished personality on the hot seat was Rt. Honourable Ndofot Essien, a board member of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, representing the South-South region.
The two term Principal Officer,Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly was quizzed on the divergent opinions of Nigerians on the rewards and awards given to the Super Eagles of Nigeria, following their impressive performance at the just concluded African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
The Eagles were given landed property in the Federal Capital Territory,and houses in the country. The three time champions were also given the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger(MON),and thus sparked various reactions from Nigerians.
In his words, the NFF board member said :
“I don’t think it is proper to condemn the awards being bestowed on the players,and the rewards given to them.
Even teams like DR Congo,that left in the second round were celebrated well in their country,same as Guinea,they were also celebrated and they never reached where we got in the competition”
The CEO and proprietor of *FC ONE ROCKET* concluded that the Federal Government took the best decision, appreciating President Tinubu led administration for clearing the outstanding salaries of Coach Jose Peseiro.
“For the Federal Government to reward these players,it is absolutely Justified and commendable. As I said,being second out of 54 of CAF membership in the continent iis never a bad record. So I don’t support the argument that their reward was not justified”.
FIFA referee’s first-quarter fitness test and badging to hold in Abuja
The first-quarter FIFA fitness test for Nigerian international referees will take place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Tuesday, 20th February 2024.
Medical tests were conducted on the referees on Monday, 19th February 2024.
Special Assistant to the NFF General Secretary and Coordinator of Refereeing Development in Nigeria, Mr. Mohammed Adebayo Ameenu said the 30 Nigerian referees listed for international duty this year will be decorated with their badges at a ceremony inside the NFF/FIFA Goal Project on Wednesday, 21st February 2024.
The 30 individuals are made up of seven men referees, seven men assistant referees, four women referees, four women assistant referees, four beach soccer referees and four futsal referees. One of the beach soccer referees, Jelili Ogunmuyiwa is presently on duty at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup ongoing in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.
Oborevwori visits Asagba’s family, condoles Asaba people
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, visited the palace of the Asagba of Asaba to commiserate with the family and the people of Asaba at large on the passing of His Royal Majesty Obi Professor Chike Edozien, CFR.
Governor Oborevwori while addressing palace chiefs, the widow and family members of the late monarch in company of his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, members of the State Executive Council and other top government functionaries, expressed shock at the passing of the revered monarch.
The Governor said; “a few days ago, I received a letter from the Palace of the Asagba of Asaba, informing me of the demise of HRM Obi Professor Joseph Chike Edozien, CFR.
“It came to us as a rude shock because I remember during my campaign I was here, Agunwanyi was also seated beside the Asagba and he prayed for me.
“After my swearing-in, I came to this same palace one quiet evening and we discussed at length about the development of Asaba.
“It is sad that His Royal Majesty has passed on because he was somebody that was well respected and who got to the peak of his career.
“When you listen to him, you know he is somebody with so much knowledge and anybody who cares to listen must tap some knowledge from him; I can tell you that we are using some of his advices to work.
“I want to assure the family that we are with them at this time of grief. I commiserate with our mummy, Her Royal Majesty, Agunwanyi, the children, his family, the Palace of the Asagba of Asaba, Asaba people and the entire people of Oshimili South Local Government over his demise.
“We pray that God grants him eternal rest. We know that he has gone to rest with the Lord and we are with you at this time of grief.”
In an interview with journalists during the visit, Governor Oborevwori expressed sadness at the passing of the respected monarch whom he described as a leader who was passionate about the growth and development of his people and the peace and unity of the state and the nation.
He said: “The news of his death came to me as a rude shock because, no matter the age a person, if he passes on you will still feel it. Well, it has happened and we cannot question God and that is why I have come here with my Deputy Governor and other members of the State Executive Council to commiserate with his family, his subjects and the entire people of Oshimili South over this great loss.
“Our prayer is for God to grant him eternal rest.”
Enyimba FC Chairman, Kanu Papilo Nwankwo “FIFA Ambassador” on behalf the club celebrates our performing Governor, His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti OFR as he turns 59 today.
In a statement made available by the clubs media to felicitate His Excellency, Amb Kanu described Gov Otti as the man with the midas touch that is tremendously transforming Abia into a modern state including the sports sector.
“We at the People’s Elephant wish to celebrate our amiable and dynamic Governor on this auspicious occasion of his 59th birthday today.
“As Champions we accord champion’s salute to a God giving and performing Governor who’s administrative dexterity has been evident in the total and positive transformation taking place in God’s Own State.
“On behalf of Enyimba FC Management, players and fans, we join millions of Abians in rejoicing with His Excellency as God’s Graciously adds another 365 days to him.
“We also pray that God to continue to grant him the strength, wisdom and good health as he diligently continues to pilot the affairs of the state, as we pledge to always do our bit in Enyimba to project his mission, mission and desire for Abia.
A Cross Section of Itsekiri & Urhobo traditional dancers, entertaining during the commissioning
