Yuletide: Eunice Odika Fetes Issele-Uku, Issele-Mkpitime, Onicha-Ugbo Widows With Christmas kindness 

Syndicated Report 

The founder of June Vision Foundation/Ministry, a Non Governmental Organisation that takes care of widows and less privileged persons within and around Issele-Uku, Evangelist Eunice June Odika has celebrated the 2023 Christmas with Issele-Uku, Issele-Mkpitime and Onicha-Ugbo widows, distributing wrappers, rice and tomato paste to 287 of them.

The celebration took place on Sunday 24th December, 2023, at the Issele-Uku Royal Palace, where His Royal Majesty, Agbogidi Obi Nduka was present with other dignitaries who came to give solidarity support to the widows’ benefactor.

Obi Nduka was full of praises to June Odika, daughter of the renowned Late Rev. Eugene Odika of the Church of Faith Bible Ministry, for her consistency of love towards widows in Issele-Uku and environs.

The Monarch acknowledged the efficacy of the prayers that were usually said during the annual event, thereby thanking the Pastors for always committing Issele-Uku to God in their prayers.

His words, “We live by prayers, especially prayers from our parents. The women that are gathered here as widows are our parents, and when they join you to pray for our children and the land, there is no doubt that such prayers will make great impact.

“On this note, I want to commend our daughter and sister, Eunice Odika who has deemed it necessary to always remember the widows in our midst every Christmas in the past seven years. This benevolence is massive, not minding the expensive nature of things in Nigeria of today.

“My prayer is that God will replenish you, and continue to endow you with the grace to do more for the good of our people and community”, Obi Nduka said.

In her short but precise response to the commendation of the Issele-Uku Monarch, Evangelist Eunice June Odika, said she learnt the act of benevolence from her late father who used to gather widows for giveaways and empowerments.

According to her, “My father was exceptional in the area of giving for charity. We grew up to learn the culture of reaching out to the needy in love as commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ.

“With the economic situation of the country this year, it was obvious nobody who was involved in charity work wanted to take the risk of sharing rice in December. People were already asking me what to do having assessed the economic reality of the time, because they knew it had become a yearly ritual for me to give to these widows who might not have anybody to remember them for Christmas. But I responded that God would provide. Indeed, God provided.

“I want to sincerely appreciate the Obi of Issele-Uku who had been with us in the past seven years, supporting us in numerous ways, especially providing us with a space in the Palace and always joining us in the fellowship. I must say I am always overwhelmed by our Obi’s humility and undiluted show of love towards us.

“I thank my team of Pastors for their assistance; and of course, the women who have continued to meet under this umbrella, to fellowship in love and act as instrument of help to one another. My prayer is that the Giver of the June Vision will continue to give us the grace and wherewithal to execute this project annually”, Odika posited.

During the sermon by Pastor Sunday Ikelede, titled “Pure Religion”, he dwelt extensively on the need for the children of God to give selflessly for charity, especially to widows and fatherless, citing James 1:27 and Job 29:12-14.

Pastor Ikelede noted that Evangelist Odika has got the grace of God to show love to the world through her outreach ministry for the widows – Widows For Christ, maintaining that the best way to please God is to show love and compassion to others.

The Widows For Christ is a project of the June Vision; a Foundation/Ministry that was founded by Evangelist Eunice June Odika, through which she has continued to bring God’s word to the widows on weekly and monthly basis, and then climax it with the sharing of Christmas gifts to them on the 24th of December every year.

Before now, the annual Widows For Christ celebration was centred around widows from Issele-Uku alone; but for this year, their benefactor had included widows from Issele-Mkpitime and Onicha-Ugbo to also benefit.

Rotary Foundation Drums Support for Total Eradication of Polio

By Odeya Ogbetuo

The Rotary International, District 9141 Governor, Rotarian Emeke Manasseh Utebor has called on all Rotarians and friends of Rotary to fully support Rotary Club to actualize its desire to eradicate polio worldwide.

Rotarian Utebor made this call while declaring open the 2 days Joint Rotary Foundation and Polio Plus Seminar and Foundation Dinner organized by the District in Effurun/Warri Zone, Delta State.

Rotarian Utebor said that Rotarians in District 9141 are dedicated with a collective mission to eradicate the debilitating scourge of polio, adding that the polio plus seminar remains a target to make a difference in touching the lives of millions of children across the globe.

He disclosed that District 9141 has emerged a beacon of hope with determination in raising awareness, mobilizing resources and implementing vaccination programmes which has obviously reduced the incidence of polio and this has inspired others to join this noble course.

According to him “The impact of your collective actions goes beyond statistics; it resonates in the stories of children who are now free from the shackles of polio and are able to pursue their dreams without the burden of disability.”

“The Rotary Polio Plus Seminar provides us an invaluable opportunity to reflect on our experiences, and strengthens our resolve to face the challenges that lie ahead. As we celebrate the progress made, let us acknowledge that our work is not yet done as polio is still a threat in certain places of the world and we must remain vigilant, united and determined to reach every child with a life-saving polio vaccine.”

Rotarian Utebor commended Rotarians in the District for championing the course, spreading awareness and engaging with communities to ensure no child is left vulnerable to this preventable disease, urging them to continue contributing to the Rotary global effort to eradicate polio.

In a lecture title: “Progress so far in Nigeria Polio Eradication Effort, Rotarian Ambassador Aminu Mohammad said that great impact has been made in tacking the CVPV2 outbreak in Nigeria, adding that the major task ahead of them is to ensure that States and Local Government leaders improve on their ownership of the programme by strengthening campaign against polio, noting that the challenges ranges from insecurity, poor funding, as well as non-compliance in some areas which hindered access to children in some states.

Sustaining Our Progress and the Role of Rotary in Keeping Nigeria Polio-free, the past District Governor, PDG Rotarian Andy Uwejeyan said that Rotary will not rest until polio is totally eradicated from the surface of the earth; adding that the good news is that polio will be the second human disease in history to be eradicated.

He said in 1988, about 124 countries have polio but has now reduced to about 4 to 6 countries still with polio virus, adding that they have so far vaccinated three (3) billion children worldwide and have prevented the spread of polio virus, noting that in 2020, Nigeria became polio free country.

“Polio Anywhere in Polio Everywhere.” We have a strategy to stop polio by 2026. We need 4.6 billion dollars to accomplish total eradication of polio worldwide.”

Dr. Ojimah Chibianotu of the World Health Organization (WHO) who talked about types of poliomyelitis and the eradication said that polio attacks children between ages one to five years and early detection will help to cure it. He said in 1988 the World Health Assembly resolved to eradicate polio and by 2005, only Pakistan, Nigeria and India are still with poliomyelitis, stressing that from 1988 to 2022 Global progress was made toward polio eradication.

The District Governor Elect, Rotarian Chinedu Ikegwani (2024-2025) talked about Rotary Global Grants and how clubs could access the grants, club membership growth, humanitarian needs and contributions to the District among others.

For his presentation, Rotarian Olugbenga Olayiwole said that we (Rotarians) need innovative approaches for fundraising and advocacy to help mobilize resources that will end polio.

“We need new approaches for awareness creation. We are almost there. We have conquered wild polio. We have successfully eradicated 2 out of 3 forms of viruses” he added.

Various Clubs in the Districts were given awards based on their contributions to the success of activities of the District and members were urged to continue to contribute to the activities of the Rotary Club in promoting humanitarian services.

Christmas: Reps member Ereyitomi doles out thousands of bags of Rice, cash gifts, others to Warri constituents

By; Celestine Ukah

A kind and well hearted member representing Warri Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Reps, Abuja, Hon. Chief Dr. Thomas Ereyitomi JP has come to show apt support to his constituents as he donated thousands of bags of Rice, Cash gift, cows , rams and its associates to his constituents and party faithful to enable them celebrate this year’s Christmas and new year with ease.

Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi is also the Chairman House Committee on Petroleum Resources Training Funds,
as a super legislator, recognised for his generosity in Warri Federal Constituency politics, remarked that the primary aim of the Christmas gifts is to ease the hardships faced by those struggling to afford basic needs as he has been on the largesse programme for some years now. .

According to the Warri federal lawmaker ’this is a way for him to give back to his constituents who gave him their mandate willingly across party affiliations.

He said: “It is my own little way of giving back to my community, it is the festive period and this is just a way to give back to the people.

“A bag of rice is now more than 50 thousand naira in the market . The country is hard everybody knows that, people are hungry so we need to find one way or the other to cater for their needs.'”

Hon. Chief Ereyitomi however, urged well-meaning Nigerians to give to those who are less privileged in order to make this yuletide a memorable one for all.

He stated further “In our own little way, we need to live in peace with one another., we should find a way to play our own role in giving succour to people, I wish my Warri federal constituents, Deltans and Nigerians merry Christmas and a happy new year in advance”.

All party faithfuls, religious organizations, traditional institutions, leaders from different organs and other constituents benefitted across from Hon. Chief Dr. Ereyitomi goodwill splash to constituents.

CHRISTMAS: Obiodeh hosts Igbide clan union, harps on unity, peace, love

Delta State Commissioner for Lands, Surveys and Urban Development, Chief Emamusi Obiodeh, Saturday, hosted the Igbide Clan Union Asaba branch in the spirit of the Yuletide.

Speaking during the brief ceremony held at his official residence in Asaba, Obiodeh called on the people of Igbide Kingdom and Isoko nation to continue to live in unity, peace and love adding that only a peaceful people enjoys dividends of democracy.

He thanked the Igbide Kingdom and the entire Isoko nation for their continued support for the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration in Delta State.

While wishing the people a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year, Chief Obiodeh emphasized that peace was necessary for the advancement and development of the state.

“On behalf of my family, the Management and staff of the Delta State Ministry of Lands, Surveys and Urban Development, i welcome and congratulate our people of Igbide Kingdom and Isoko nation in general on the 2023 Christmas celebrations.

“Let me assure our people that Igbide and Isoko will benefit more if they stand firm in their support for Governor Oborevwori and his administration throughout his terms in office.

“As we celebrate this Christmas and New Year, I urge all our people to show love to one another and continue to live in peace for us attract the needed development to our land.

“May this year’s celebration bring peace and development to all our homes. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year,” he stated.

DOPF felicitates Nwaeke over his appointment as CPS to Delta Assembly Speaker

Association of Online Publishers in Delta State under the aegis of Delta Online Publishers Forum, DOPF has congratulated ace broadcaster, Mr. Nkem Nwaeke on his appointment as Chief Press Secretary to Delta State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Guwor Dennis Emomitimo.

DOPF in a congratulatory message to the CPS at the weekend signed by its Chairman, Emmanuel Enebeli and the Secretary, Shedrack Ogaga Onitsha said that Nkem Nwaeke’s choice for the prone job was never a mistake, judging from his wealth of experience garnered over the year.

The group also commended the Assembly Speaker Rt Hon. Guwor for the choice of Nkem Nwaeke signaled his wise disposition to professionalism; just as the Online Publishers said their hope rekindled that his appointment would foster a robust relationship between the media and the State lawmakers.

‘We commend the Speaker for his wise choice in appointing you for this vital role. Your wealth of experience and expertise assures us that you will excel in fostering a robust connection between the media and the State Parliamentarian, contributing significantly to the growth and development of Delta State.’

DOPF also promised to work harmoniously with the CPS, opined that through constant communication cum collaboration, better results could be achieved geared towards harmonious relationship between the online Publishers and the State legislative arm and at the same time holding the lawmakers to account.

‘As representatives of the media community, we pledge our unwavering support to you in your new position. We believe that through effective communication and collaboration, we can construct a stronger bridge between the media and the legislative arm, ensuring transparency, accountability, and progress for our state.’

While calling on the CPS for concerted effort geared towards harmonious relationship, leveraging on his office to enhance information dissemination and civic engagement; stressed that his appointment signaled critical moment, said DOPF are eager to work with him to advance the interest of Deltans. The statement added.

14 Delta Host Communities Call On FG To Revoke Licenses Of NEPL, NECONDE Over Refusal To Implement PIA, other social responsibilities

14 Host communities to the Nigeria Exploration Petroleum Limited, NEPL and NECONDE Energy Limited in Delta State, have called on the Federal Government to revoke the licenses of the two companies operating the OML 42, over perceived refusal to implement the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA and other issues as it relates to the Local Content Law.

This newspaper, reports  that the aggrieved Delta Host Communities made the demand in an open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The letter dated Monday December 18 and signed by the Chairman OML 42/Kantu Community,

Mr. Windfree Atemubaghan, PRO of OML 42 Communities’ Forum, Oyimi Samson, Secretary-General of OML 42 Communities’ Forum, Mr. Francis Ayeku and Treasurer, OML 42 Communities’ Forum, Amb. Billy Ekele, averred inter-alia: “We wish to further state that despite the huge production to the National treasury of Nigeria, the JV operators of OML 42, since the divestment of this asset to the JV partners (formerly NPDC) and now NEPL/ Neconde Energy Limited, has failed the host communities woefully in the following areas of Oil and Gas operation in the Niger Delta region, as it affect the OMI 42 host communities.

“THE ISSUES AS FOLLOWS

“1. FAILURE TO IMPLEMENT LOCAL CONTENT ACT: The operators as Nigerian companies by law, is expected to uphold the enforcement and implementation of the laws of local content act, but the operators are not in any form encouraging indigenous vendors to build capacity, rather secretly giving out contracts meant for community vendors to their friends and associates outside the host communities.

“Whereby making it very difficult for the host communities to build capacity in terms of contracts, hence, we are worried the management of these companies, having agreed in our previous meetings to release the community base contracts to the host communities.

“It is pertinent to note that having agreed to release the community base contracts, but till now the JV partners (formerly NPDC) and now NEPL/ Neconde Energy Limited and Amaranta) refuse to comply to our previous agreement, dated 4 OCT, 2023,

“This is a clear demonstration that companies register under the law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which ought to respect the Local Content Law as demonstrated otherwise in their attitude that may cause breakdown of law and order, that will lead to shut-down of oil production which will affect the revenue of the Nation.

“2. FAILURE TO IMPLEMENT SOCIAL COOPERATE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE OPERATORS: It is the constitutional responsibility of operators of oil and gas companies in anywhere in the world to meet up to the social cooperate responsibilities to their host communities. But these operators, have failed in the aforementioned responsibilities by not developing the human capital and infrastructural needs of our host communities. Since inception of their joint venture commencement, no single community project(s) has been executed in the host communities, except electrification project in only two communities, despite the huge production of crude oil by the operators. No provision of skill acquisition programme, scholarship etc for the teeming youths of the area of their operations.

“3. FAILURE TO RESPECT ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS AND LAW IN THE OPERATION OF OIL AND GAS ACTIVITIES: The operators of the OML 42 NEPL AND NECONDE ENERGY LTD JV) are using barging to load crude oil in some of the six(6) flow stations in OML 42 and supply to mother vessels in the Atlantic Ocean, thereby causing environmental pollution on the soul of the host communities, this has further damaged the entire eco system of the marine economy, making it difficult for the inhabitants to live with their God-given natural occupation.

“These barging, has caused pollution that have driven away the aquatic life of the fishes and animals in the water and land, constantly causing environmental degradation, it is seen that the act of barging crude oil while a systematical pipeline network is built as an oil and gas infrastructure since the discovering of crude in 1956 in Nigeria to move crude from production fields to terminals for onward sales, is for efficient and accurate data base taking of all operators of oil and gas in the Niger Delta, while in only OMI. 42 is barging, it is a way of stealing the common wealth of the Nation treasury.

“4. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE PETROLEUM INDUSTRY ACT(PIA) IMPLEMENTATION BY THE OPERATORS: The PIA provides for development of host communities in human and capital infrastructures, due to the oil and gas exploration and exploitation activities, which damage the environment where oil and gas is being exploited.

“It’s pertinent and surprising to note that the operators of OML 42 are negligent in their duty to fast-track the process of the implementation of the PIA that has been signed to law since 2021, this is a clear demonstration that companies register under the law of the federation are deliberately refusing to implement the PIA to their host communities, making the host communities to suffer more crude oil production damages.

“We therefore call on the Federal Government to revoke the licenses of the JV operators, which has failed to implement the PIA.

“Conclusively, we appeal to State and Federal Government to quickly come to our aid to save the souls of the oil producing host communities of OML 42.”

Delta Gov. Oborevwori tasks journalists on media ethics

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday, called on Media practitioners to adhere strictly to the ethics of the profession in the discharge of their duties.

Govenor Oborevwori made the call when the state leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba.

The governor who congratulated the State chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Churchill Oyowe and other members of the executive on their victory at the Union’s election, urged them to work as a team for the general good of the union.

He said the vision of his administration was to carry media practitioners along in the scheme of things, promising to reposition the state owned media outfits to meet international standard.

“The good thing is that your election was very peaceful and transparent without interference even when people were pressuring me to support a candidate I refused because I am Governor for all Deltans and anyone that wins is my own.

“See your victory as something from God because it is only God that can give you power and at this time your people have chosen you to be their State Chairman.

“What is more important is the relationship you are going to build, do not be carried away by the victory and do the right thing.

“As journalists when you critize do it the right way and not with sentiments, so I urge you to promote unity and shun acrimony.

“As members of the fourth estate of the realm, you should abide by the ethics of the profession and as a government we will continue to support the NUJ in enhancing professionalism among your members,” he added.

On appointment of commissioners for Information and Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the Governor said people would be appointed into the said ministries and assured that appointment would be based on merit and competence.

Governor Oborevwori said since he came into office, his administration has been able to pay outstanding promotion arrears owed workers, approved payment of N10,000 each monthly for three months to cushion the effect of subsidy removal by the federal Government on civil servants.

He added that he has flagged off the construction of three flyovers, cloverleaf, pedestrian bridges and expansion of roads by Julius Berger company in Warri and Effurun at the cost of N78 billion among other policies aimed at expanding frontiers of development in the state.

He said his MORE Agenda was crafted to fastrack the infrastructural and socio-economic development of the state.

Earlier, the State Chairman of the NUJ,  Comrade Churchill Oyowe said the visit was to introduce the new executive to the Governor and also seek ways of partnership with government on advancing the MORE Agenda.

Comrade Oyowe who commended Governor Oborevwori for appointing some members of the union as Media Aides, assured  the Governor of the support of Journalists in promoting the policies and programmes of his administration.

He reminded the Governor of the need to fully digitalize state owned media houses, local and  international training for journalists, building of NUJ village and upgrade of facilities at the Union’s secretariat.

Okere – Urhobo: Tidi’s Aide reacts to the death of Amugo, says Security agencies enforcing resolutions reached by stakeholders

Aide to the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Dr. Michael Tidi, on Social Media, Mr. Joshua Alufa, has described the reported killing of one Samson Amugo at Okere-Urhobo, Warri, yesterday by unknown persons as regrettable, saying the Warri South Local Government Boss, is deeply pained by the development.

The Warri South Chairman’s Aide, who was reacting to uncharitable remarks in some social media platforms against the peace interventions of the Dr. Michael Tidi administration, as it relates to the crisis in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, asserted: “It must be noted that the Dr. Michael Tidi administration of Warri South Local Government Area, has strong confidence in the security agencies to unravel what must have led to the reported death of Samson Amugo. My Boss, Dr. Tidi, also trust in the capacity of security agencies to subsequently prevent the situation from escalating.

“He believes that the resolutions reached at the emergency security meeting held at the Warri South Council Lodge last weekend, between Officials of Warri South Local Government Council, led him, Dr. Michael Tidi, representatives of the major families that make up Okere – Urhobo and Security Agencies, would be fully implemented by the relevant security agencies.”

First Floating LNG: Amb. Agbolaya felicitates UTM Offshore, DTSG, NNPCL as they sign development agreement

By: Celestine Ukah

The foremost Chairmanship aspirant for Warri South Local Government Council in the upcoming 2024 LGAs election and Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Warri South, Delta State, Amb. Dr. Toyin Agbolaya JP has felicitated with the Management and staff of UTM offshore Limited, NNPCL as well as Delta State Government as they sign shareholders Agreement for the development of first Floating Liquefied Natural Gas, FLNG in Nigeria.

Amb. Dr. Agbolaya in his felicitation message described the signing of the agreement as a great height recorded by the UTM Group Managing Director, Mr. Julius Rone, noting that it’s historic by a Deltan and a Warri Son who has distinguished himself in the oil and gas industry to put up the feat.

He commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his role in involving the state government in committing to having share in the first offshore LNG being hosted by illustrious Warri Son, Julius Rone where Delta State Government will own Eight percent share of the project, NNPC Limited 20 percent and UTM Offshore having 72 percent.

The Warri South Local Government Council aspirant, Dr. Agbolaya who is also a grassroot and seasoned administrator said the takeoff of the project will give jobs to youths and people in the area as well key into Governor Oborevwori M.O.R.E agenda, improve on the economy of the state and Nigeria at large.

Dr. Agbolaya also commended the NNPCL and federal government for their support in encouraging the investment which will produce cooking gas and cleaner energy in the country.

Dennis Otu Congratulates Nkem Nwaeke

** Urges Him to View His New Role as a Service to Delta State

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA )to the Governor of Delta State on New Media, Dennis Otu has felicitated with Mr. Nkem Nwaeke on his recent appointment as the Chief Press Secretary(CPS )to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Dennis Emomotimi Guwor.

Otu, who himself held the position of Chief Press Secretary between May 11th, 2017, and May 29, 2023 to the state governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori when he was Speaker, described Nwaeke’s appointment as merited and opportune.

He shared these sentiments in a press release on Thursday, December 21st, 2023, in Asaba, the State Capital.

“I am immensely thrilled by the appointment of my dear friend and brother, Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, as the Chief Press Secretary to the speaker of the State House of Assembly,” said Otu.

He expressed his firm belief in Nwaeke’s ability to excel in his new role, given his current position as an Assistant General Manager with the Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Warri.

Otu, who has known Nwaeke for several years, lauded him as a diligent and industrious journalist.

He noted that Nwaeke’s extensive experience in covering the activities of the State House of Assembly over the years has equipped him with a deep understanding of the Assembly’s operations.

He also reminisced about the amicable working relationship they shared during his tenure as Chief Press Secretary (CPS)

In addition to his role as a Senior Special Assistant, and veteran journalist, Otu is also an accomplished author, known for his popular novel, “DORA,” among other books.

He commended the Speaker of the State House of Assembly for his decision in appointing Nwaeke as his spokesman.

Otu described the appointment as a wise choice, recalling Nwaeke’s dedication to reporting the activities of the House of Assembly since 2007, when he was assigned by his station, DBS Warri, as Assembly Correspondent.

Otu expressed his unwavering confidence in Nwaeke’s ability to rise to the occasion in his new role.

He portrayed Nwaeke as a seasoned journalist known for his dedication, loyalty, and sincerity.

“Nkem Nwaeke’s appointment as Chief Press Secretary did not surprise me, and I am confident that he will not let us down. He is well-versed in his field, and I am certain that he will make us proud,” he stated.

Otu further advised Nwaeke to remain steadfast in his commitment to his job and to view his new appointment as a call to serve the people of Delta State.

He expressed his faith in Nwaeke’s ability to deliver, adding, “I have watched you mature in our esteemed profession, and I urge you to see your recent appointment as a call to serve our beloved state.”

In conclusion, Otu extended his heartfelt congratulations to Nwaeke on behalf of his family, hailing the appointment as well-deserved.

He expressed his anticipation for Nwaeke’s contributions to the state’s development in his new role.