Bayelsa State Government Mulls Stoppage Of Unfriendly Burial Practices Against Women

Bayelsa State government has said it would work towards ending unfriendly traditional and customary practices that inhibit the burial of married females in some communities in the state.

Governor Douye Diri gave the hint on Tuesday during a condolence visit to the Yenagoa residence of his Technical Adviser on Ijaw National Affairs, Chief Douyi Douglas-Naingba, who lost his wife.

The Bayelsa governor said his administration would consider legislation to end practices that forbid women from being buried in some communities. 

He expressed concern over the practice, saying it was unfair to the female gender. 

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as assuring that his administration will work with the state House of Assembly to provide a legal framework to end discriminatory practices against women. 

As part of efforts to tackle the issue in the short term, Governor Diri directed the Commissioner for Lands and Housing and his Works and Infrastructure counterpart to laise with leaders of Amassoma community to get a suitable location for the construction of a cemetery.

He described as painful the death of a loved one, particularly a spouse, and prayed God to grant Chief Naingba and his family the fortitude to bear the loss. 

The state helmsman described the deceased as a very caring woman, who  left a worthy legacy, stressing that those who mourn should be consoled by her legacies. 

His words: "I know what it means to lose a loved one, especially a wife. Chief Naingba, let me on behalf of your government and the people of the state express my sincere condolences. 

“All of us, at any point in time, will answer the call of death. We accept that reality. We pray that the almighty God will grant you the fortitude to bear this loss.

"God made it so and we accept our fate. Whatever happens to one of us happens to all of us. We came today to encourage and to pray with you. But let the reality be on all of us that no matter who we are, we can die at any point in time. We are consoled that she has led a good life."

Responding, Chief Douyi Douglas-Naingba expressed gratitude to the governor for his show of love and friendship, stressing that his family was strengthened by the visit. 

He appealed to the governor to approve the construction of a cemetery in Amassoma Island to end the discriminatory tradition against female corpses in the community.

Ekiti decides: Photo Speaks

Election officials on ground materials and personnel deployed promptly.

Sen. Dickson Congratulates Okowa, PDP on Vice Presidential Nomination

Being the Full Text of A Congratulatory Press Statement By Senator Henry Seriake Dickson To Governor Ifeanyi Okowa On His Nomination As PDP's Vice Presidential Candidate:

I congratulate my brother and colleague His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa on his well deserved nomination as the vice presidential candidate and running mate to the presidential candidate of our great party, His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, GCON which was announced yesterday.

His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa has been a colleague and a brother who infact took over from me as chairman of the South-South governor's forum which office he currently occupies. I know him as someone who possesses the qualities that can assist our candidate and our party not only in campaigning and winning the election but also in running an effective government for our country.

As I have always said, all political ambitions and aspirations are legitimate but must follow due process. The presidential candidate has spoken. In our system, the office of the vice-presidential candidate is not to be contested or vied for, it is the prerogative of the flag bearer and should be respected.

We should all therefore rally round our party and our flag bearers to confront the issues ahead which requires the support of all.

Both His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, GCON and His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa and our party can be assured of my support as usual.

Congratulations to PDP

Hsd.

Senator Dickson Congratulates Okowa On His Emergence As Running Mate To Atiku

 

The Senator representing Bayelsa West in the National Assembly, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has congratulated the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, on his emergence as the running mate to the Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar.

Senator Dickson said that he had related with Okowa as a colleague and brother who took over from him as the current Chairman of the South South Governor’s Forum

The former Governor of Bayelsa State said that Okowa has the requisite qualities not just to assist the candidate in the area of electoral campaigns but also to run government effectively.

Senator Dickson called on all party members to rally round the candidate to give him all the needed support to achieve targeted objectives now that the Candidate has taken a decision.

He assured the Candidate, Atiku, and his running mate of his unflinching support.

“I congratulate my brother and colleague His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa on his well deserved nomination as the vice presidential candidate and running mate to the presidential candidate of our great party, His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, GCON which was announced yesterday.

“His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa has been a colleague and a brother who infact took over from me as chairman of the South-South governor's forum which office he currently occupies.

“I know him as someone who possesses the qualities that can assist our candidate and our party not only in campaigning and winning the election but also in running an effective government for our country.

“As I have always said, all political ambitions and aspirations are legitimate but must follow due process. The presidential candidate has spoken. In our system, the office of the vice-presidential candidate is not to be contested or vied for, it is the prerogative of the flag bearer and should be respected.

“We should all therefore rally round our party and our flag bearers to confront the issues ahead which requires the support of all.

“Both His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, GCON and His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa and our party can be assured of my support as usual.” He said.

Niger Delta Peace Advocacy Group Commend Kyari, Tombomieye Over End To Bad Fuel Circulation

 Peace advocacy group, The Niger Delta Advocate For Peace and Good Governance (NDAPGG) has comend the Group Managing Director, GMD, of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Mele Kyari, and The Group Executive Director, Upstream Operations, NNPC, Engr Adokiye Tombomieye, over prompt intervention to stop adulterated fuel circulation and long queues across the country.

According to the group, despite the plot by some unscrupulous elements to throw the country into confusion, the duo of Kyari and  Tombomieye salvage the corporate image of NNPC and haly the nefarious activities of these elements.

The NDSPGG, after an emergency meeting in Warri Delta State presided over by the National Coordinator, GEN FIAWEI PATHFINDER, explained that it became imperative for the group to appreciate the two experienced professionals for abating the unexpected that threw the country into apprehension while the corporate image of NNPC was at stake globally following the nefarious activities of some unscrupulous elements.

The group, in a statement,stated that as one of the key stakeholder in the oil and gas sector including Ex-Agitators and stakeholders from Oil Producing Communities in the Niger Delta region, after a critical a assessment of the situation deemed it fit to commend Mele Kyari and Tombomieye for brining their expertise to bear in resolve the issue professionally.

He said: “We in Niger Delta Advocate For Peace and Good Governance Group, NDAPGG, have been keen about sustainable peace and stability in the Niger Delta region in other to attract development in the once volatile region so that the oil gas and industry will be more safer for investors to invest for ease of doing business in the sector.

“We want to unequivocally state that the Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Mele Kyari, and the Group Executive Director, Upstream Operations, NNPC, Engr Adokiye Tombomieye, should be appreciated over prompt intervention to stop the adulterated fuel circulation and tackle the long queues across the country nationwide.

“We commend them and hail their wealth of experience they brought to bare  

to resolve the supply gap created by the unexpected importation of methanol-blended petrol into the country that nearly throw the country into turmoil due to the insufficient availability of Premium Motor Spirit known as pms, in most of the filing stations and petroleum depo.

“It is also worth commending for the duo proactive measures put in place on behalf of the NNPC management by keeping to the promise of delivering over 700 million liters of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, to address the supply and distribution gaps.

“And one thing that made us to really hail them is based on their prompt alert sent out to Nigerians about supply and distribution of bad fuel not to be circulated to the end users across nationwide.

“They never rested but put in more efforts and sleepless nights to ensure proper measures and steps to recall the bad petrol that has caused panic to Nigerians, which apart from making their promised 700 million litres injection, they also supplied additional 2.1 billion litres to address the shortfall.

“Also, we appreciate the tireless effort of the Group Executive Director, Upstream Operations, NNPC, Engr Adokiye Tombomieye, for playing a professional role to abate the ugly situation, and we can categorically state here that Engr Tombomieye’s appointment by Mr President is very significant in the oil and gas sector following his antecedents which he displayed to address the lingering issue of fuel queues.

“Being an experienced professional, he (Tombomieye) had earlier been able to bring his expertise to reposition, restructure, reorganize and sanitize the upstream operations in the nation oil sector in a transparent manner like never before with a robust business friendly policy framework.”

The group recalled the role the NNPC boss, Engr Mele Kyari and Executive Director, Upstream Operations of NNPC, Engr Adokiye Tombomieye, played as both contributed immensely to the successful passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill, now the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, and expressed optimism that the PIA will transform oil bearing communities in the Niger Delta region and that will put to an end the issues negligence and militancy and youth restiveness in the region.

The group also acknowledged what it described as excellent performance and meritorious service of Adokiye based on his positive impact in various positions he has held before this current position.

Similarly, the group expressed appreciation for the peaceful cordial working relationship between the Group Managing Director of NNPC and their kinsman (Adokiye) have, As it has moved the Corporation forward to greater heights and brought sanity with stability to the industry wish has reposed confidence from the general public and the industry players in the sector to invest massively in the oil and gas sector. 

"And it is on record the GMD also throw his weight behind Adokiye, which also propelled our brother to the position he occupies at the the NNPC Towers because of the strong trust and confidence the GMD has in him along with his performance and excellent incorruptible track record of achievement", the statement added.

However, in conclusion, the group in the statement pledged its full support for the GMD and Adokiye to enable them continue their good work as they serve Nigerians and take the nation oil and gas sector to global recognition and competitiveness in doing business without compromise.

"Very importantly, we as PEACE ADVOCATES and stakeholders from the oil producing Communities in the Niger Delta region use this medium to call on sons and daughters from the region to support the duo in the oil sector.

The group warned in strong term those nefarious, criminal minded, and corrupt elements who are sponsored by some bad heads bent on cooking false allegations and cheap blackmail in trying to drag their names to the mud to desist henceforth, if not we will left with no option to declare them as enemies to President Muhammadu Buhari led federal government as enemies to peace in the region.

Good Planning Will Aid Infrastructure Development In N’Delta Region – Engr. Adebiyi

By Ere-ebi Agedah

 

The incoming Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs (MNDA), Engr. Olusesan Adebiyi FNSE has pledged his commitment to ensuring good planning that will lead  to development in the Niger Delta region, especially in the area of Infrastructure, Education and Empowerment.

The Permanent Secretary made this pledge at the reception ceremony held in the Ministry in Abuja to usher him into the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs on Tuesday 14th June, 2022.

According to Adebiyi, “Good planning will also help us to come out with better results, on this note, I want to appeal to us to rise up and work, let’s rise up and build, let’s rise up to get committed and serious.”

“If you are not tired of stories of uncompleted buildings in the terrain, I am tired, I am not satisfied and I believe the Federal Government is not satisfied either” he further stated.

He also pledged his commitment to the actualization of the vision and mandate of the Ministry noting that these areas include but not limited to environmental degradation, poverty alleviation, security and empowerment amongst others.

Engr. Adebiyi stressed that maximum calmness and peace would only be maintained in the region when projects are effectively executed for the alleviation of poverty and transformation of lives in the region.

He acknowledged that the challenges in the region though enormous especially in the area of construction works, would be surmounted with the right mindset and determination.

He therefore appealed for maximum cooperation of the staff of the Ministry in the bid to move the Niger Delta region forward.

Earlier, the overseeing Director in the office of the Permanent Secretary, MNDA, Mr. Alfred Abah, in his welcome address assured the Permanent Secretary of the commitment and readiness of the Management team to work with him in achieving the mandate of the Ministry.

“The Primary aim of the Ministry is to anchor the development initiative of the Niger Delta region and we have departments that have different roles to meet up with the mandate”, he said.

 

Senator Dickson Felicitates With Former Head Of State Abdusalami

 ..Says He is our General of Democracy

The Senator representing Bayelsa West,  Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has eulogised former Nigerian Head of State, His Excellency,  General Abdusalami Abubakar, as a General of Democracy on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

Senator Dickson noted that, after serving Nigeria at the pinnacle of his profession in the military, and his display of unparalleled commitment to democratic governance, General Abubakar has continued to be a beacon of hope and mentor to younger generation of leaders including himself.

Senator Dickson described General Abubakar as one who, over the years has become one of the most visible and enduring pillars of peace in Nigeria.

On behalf of his family, Dickson joined General Abubakar's countless admirers, all lovers of democracy and people of good conscience to celebrate the Democracy General at 80.

General Abdusalami Abubakar executed the transition of Nigeria's Forth Republic in 1999 after several years of military incursion into Nigeria's democratic rule. 

“My family and I felicitate with a dear  father, leader and former Head of State, Gen Abdusalami Abubakar, GCFR , Nigeria’s Democracy General on this special occasion of your 80th birthday.

“It is heartwarming to note that the Almighty God has kept our leader in a super state of health to continue your invaluable contributions to our dear country and humanity.

“After serving our fatherland at the pinnacle of your profession in the military, and your display of unparalleled commitment to democratic governance, you have continued to be a beacon of hope and mentor to younger generation of leaders including me in this country.

“Over the years you have become one of the most visible and enduring pillars of peace in our country.

“My family and I join your countless admirers,  all lovers of democracy and people of good conscience to celebrate you at 80.

“l pray to God to continue to keep you in good perfect health.”

Under Tinubu Presidency, A New Nigeria Will Emerge — AATSG

By Ebi Kesiena

As Nigeria heads to next year's general elections, a pro-Tinubu socio-political organisation, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group, AATSG, has said if elected the country's next president, former governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu will ensure the entrenchment of a new Nigeria. 

This is as the group says the template which Tinubu laid in Lagos State which has put the nation's commercial capital on the pedestal of accelerated development will be replicated on a national scale. 

Speaking with journalist, the National Chairman of AATSG, Otunba Yomi Odunomo while congratulating Tinubu for winning the presidential ticket of the governing APC at a special convention in Abuja last week applauded members of the group for tirelessly working to ensure victory for Tinubu at the primaries. 

According to Odunomo, Tinubu if elected president in 2023 will ensure the decentralisation of the nation's policing system to meet up with the growing security challenges in the country. 

He added that a Tinubu presidency will drive Nigeria from a consuming to a producing economy that will boost the nation's GDP, create employment for the teeming youths and guarantee the security of all. 

While urging all citizens to support the victory of Tinubu at the polls next year, Odunomo revealed that the JAGABAN app created in support of Tinubu’s presidential agenda has so far recorded 75,000 downloads, stating that the group is targeting 500,000 before the elections. 

Contributing, the Deputy National Women Leader Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group, AATSG, Zara Bukar while expressing happiness that Tinubu emerged the presidential flagbearer of APC was optimistic to say that Nigeria will be a better country under him. 

"We are so happy that our principal won the primary election, we know that he is God-chosen and this is the will of God , this is the time that we know that Nigeria will have a turnaround. 

"Nigeria will be better for all of us especially the women. When we talk about the women, we women are for Asiwaju, we are for Asiwaju because we know that there will be positions, important key positions for women in his government" she said. 

The National Organising Secretary AATSG, Habu Dauda said Tinubu is ready and prepared to govern the country, saying he will emerge the president in 2023. 

He also expressed hope that youths will have a good deal in inclusion under the leadership of Tinubu as the president.

Humanitarian Affairs Minister Engages 3000 Stream 2 Independent Monitors For NSIP

By Ere-ebi Agedah

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development Sadiya Umar Farouq has flagged off the On-Boarding of 3000 Stream 2 Independent Monitors. 

During the flag-off held at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre Abuja, the Minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Dr Nasir Sani-Gwarzo mni, MPOM, explained that Monitors were one of the most important components of the National Social Investment Programmes.

She said that the Ministry lays special emphasis on ensuring that its programmes are closely monitored. 

“Today’s programme marks the beginning of the national training and onboarding of additional 3000 men and women who  will serve as Stream 2 monitors. They will be given the prerequisite training and receive engagement letters and tablets as working tools for monitoring the programme.

“The NSIP Independent Monitors are responsible for monitoring the NSIP Programmes in their communities, schools, households and market clusters with  focus of ensuring that the Primary Objectives of the NSIPs are achieved.

“We have monitors in every Local Government where the NSIP is being implemented. Through the Social Investment Management Information System (SIMIS) application, our Stream 1 monitors have uploaded over 220,000 reports to date on the application,  giving us good visibility on  the programmes in the communities. 

“The incoming Stream 2 Independent Monitors are expected to continue using the same platform to report their activities from the field”.

The Minister charged the beneficiaries to work closely with the state NSIP teams and avoid any form intimidation of the beneficiaries.

“Monitoring at the State requires that the Independent Monitors work hand in hand with the state NSIP teams. They are also required to work closely with the beneficiaries. No intimidation of beneficiaries by an Independent Monitor will be accepted by the Ministry. Any Independent Monitor found intimidating or harassing a beneficiary will be taken off the programme”, Umar Farouq warned.

Earlier in a welcome address, Dr Umar Bindir of the Office of the Honorable Minister stated that the Social Investment Programmes  have lifted many people out of poverty while tackling youth challenges through N-Power and its affiliated programs like N-Build and N-Skills.

While explaining the processes and objectives for Social Investment Programmes Monitoring,  the Special Adviser to the President and Team Lead, Monitoring and Evaluation, Dr Fatiya Askederin Musah said that the training will define roles and responsibilities for NSIP Monitors as well as teach the reporting skills and timelines using the monitoring device.

“We monitor to have visibility in all the states, to collect data and determine areas of improvement and also document lessons learnt. Without monitoring and evaluation, we will not be able to measure the benefits or demerits of the NSIPs, hence the need to ensure accurate evaluation of all government’s poverty alleviation programmes”.

There were goodwill messages from  the Chairman, Focal Persons Forum Nasir Abdulkadir and a representative of a Non-governmental Organization, Save the Children.

In attendance were also Directors of  the Ministry including Alhaji Ali Grema who represented the Permanent Secretary, Team Leads, Focal Persons from Katsina, Nasarawa, Osun and Rivers states as well as NGOs and representatives of Civil Society Groups.

Democracy Day: Leaders Must Be Servants - Diri

...Urges Nigerians To Prioritise PVC Collection

As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has said that the essence of democracy would be lost if leaders fail to be servants to the people.

Senator Diri made the remark on Sunday while speaking at a non-denominational Democracy Day service at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa.

The governor charged those occupying elective and appointive offices to see themselves as servants while the people that gave them the mandate as their masters to whom they are accountable.

A press release by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as saying that elected or appointed officials should regard such positions of authority as a privilege and a platform to better the lot of the people.

His words: “Today being Democracy Day, we should all be reminded to continue to give service to our people. If you have been elected or appointed into key government offices and positions, you should note that It is only but a privilege.

"In all our actions, we should know that those who have given us the mandate to serve them are our masters and we are their servants. If you make yourselves a demi-god, you are only deceiving yourselves." 

Commenting on the recent attack on the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, Senator Diri again condoled with the government and people of the state over the incident.

He said Bayelsa in solidarity with the government of Ondo State has declared that there would be no Democracy Day celebration. 

Describing Bayelsa as a relatively peaceful state, Governor Diri said the state’s security architecture is being repositioned with the signing of the Bayelsa State Community Safety Corps Law to complement the efforts of the various security agencies in the state.

According to him, over 5,000 youths will be engaged by the Corps headed by Brig-Gen. Eric Angaye (Retd) and trained in all aspects of security to curb criminal activities.

He explained that the state-owned complementary security outfits - Bayelsa Vigilante and Bayelsa Volunteers - have been incorporated into the Corps and their personnel would also be trained to make them more effective.

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the service, Senator Diri called on all well-meaning Nigerians, particularly the youths, to get their permanent voter cards to be able to participate in the process of electing leaders.

“Nigerians should be ready with their PVCs. The current leadership has visited this country with hunger, poverty, dwindling economy and above all the wanton destruction of lives and property.

“The people of this country are the only ones that have the solution to all of these. I call on them to free themselves from the current bondage because the PVC is more powerful than the AK-47. The PVC is everything.”

In his sermon, the guest minister and chairman of the state chapter of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Rev. Tam-Seth Eyedoude, said democracy was not in the hands of any single man, court or diviners but rather in the hands of the people.

Rev. Eyedoude noted that peace cannot reign without justice just as democracy could not exist without respect for the people’s culture.

Senator Diri read the first lesson of the service from the book of Psalms 142 vs 1-8.

Intercessory prayers were also offered for the 2023 general election, the Bayelsa state government and the federal government.

Dignitaries at the service include wife of the governor, Justice Patience Diri, Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, father of the governor, Pa Michael Diri, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, national and state lawmakers, service commanders, religious and traditional leaders among others.

How the UK Dion Group of Companies began - Micheal

The UK Dion Group of Companies was founded in 2017  by Mr. Micheal Diongoli, an entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist who is passionate about Africa’s economic development. 

One of the leading financial experts in Africa, championing entrepreneurship development across the continent.

The group’s long-term investment in empowering African entrepreneurs is characterised by Micheal Diongoli’s philosophy of African entrepreneurship, which brings Africa’s private sector to the fore and projects entrepreneurship as the catalyst for the much needed social and economic development of the continent.

In 2021, the UK Dion Group under the audacious leadership of Micheal Diongoli consolidated its various subsidiaries and initiatives and made investing in Africa’s next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders a top priority. This is considered by many as a laudable decision and has endeared the UK Dion group to the hearts of most aspiring and emerging business leaders in Africa. 

The group further provides a structured, robust, and multifaceted support to entrepreneurs around Africa through various Entrepreneurship Programmes. 

They continue to nurture the growing numbers of business leaders, whose success stories serve as inspiration and encouragement to other upcoming entrepreneurs. 

Mr. Diongoli demonstrate the effectiveness of his views and strategy in using enterprise development as a tool for sustainable development in Nigeria and across the African continent; as he continues to expand his reach in shaping tomorrow’s business leaders and building an impactful pan-African entrepreneurial ecosystem.

His vision is to be west Africa’s leading most distinctive servicing and solutions hub that adds value to all stakeholders.

To this end, his mission is to build trust and ensure value addition and wealth creation for his clients. 

The admirable GMD Micheal U. Diongoli’ is customer centric and focuses on ensuring the stability and growth of all stake holders.

He is one of the pioneers of creating an integrated entrepreneurial ecosystem that promotes African entrepreneurship. 

The main philosophy behind the UK-Dion Group consolidation is based on the founder Mr. Micheal Ukiye Diongoli’s desire to empower a generation of successful ‘for-profit’ entrepreneurs who would drive the African economic and social transformation. 

His guiding principles are derived from an inclusive economic philosophy of African capitalism, which suggests that long-term, dynamic African-led private sector investments in key sectors of the economy will drive economic and social development. 

He believes that encouraging and building viable businesses from young Africans is the key to economic stability. 

Mr. Diongoli has a large heart and is committed to mentoring a next generation of African bootstrappers.

Young people should detest poverty, pursue success dedicatedly with every opportunity - Micheal

Starting off as a young man I had my fair share of rejections, I was rejected a couple times so many but my fear for poverty or do I say detest for poverty kept me driving. I resolved never to quit but rather push harder until I get results.

This was the tale of Micheal Diongoli in an exclusive interview in Lagos State, the capital for excellence.

Mr Micheal emphasized that while growing up he saw how many homes suffered from hunger due to poverty and how children were forced to hock and sell

so that their parents could make ends meet, this triggered the desire live above poverty line from quite a young age. 

He always wished to be wealthy from that young age. But like he says, if wishes were horses beggars would ride. So wishing was not enough, but was a good standpoint.

He said 'I am what I am today because poverty is stinks and I detest it with a passion; hence my commitment to succeed and help many others out of poverty.

According to him poverty is a choice and success is also choice, of these two choices, the one you embrace determines your motivation, aspiration and commitment.

He advised young people to detest poverty and pursue success dedicatedly with every opportunity they get. 

He also advised that to earn and leave above poverty lines, it is expedient that people learn new 21st century relevant skills as God always rewards hard work.

Niger Delta contractors urge FG, IOCs to release funds to NDDC for payment of completed projects

By Emmanuel Obisue 

A coalition of the Niger Delta contractors has beckoned on the Federal Government of Nigeria, and International Oil Company, IOC's, in the Niger Delta region to release monies owed to the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC to fast-track their outstanding payments for projects executed in the region.

President of the Contractors Association of the NDDC, Mr Sylvester Tonye had recently applauded the  Interim Administrator of the NDDC, Mr Effiong Akwa, for his Goodwill and hard work in ensuring that the contractors are all happy and fully paid for work done in the region.

"I do also want to use this medium to thank Mr Akwa for his immense efforts in trying to bring the people of the Niger Delta region together, promoting oneness, peace and forestalling disunity amongst themselves," he said.

Responding to the plight of the contractors, Mr Tonye had pushed the blame on the IOCs, positing that the entities owe the NDDC over $4bn. 

He said the affirmation of the immediate past Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio that the NDDC is on life support, has been confirmed, because monies coming into the Commission is not enough to pay contractors for work done.

The contractors also pleaded with the Muhammadu Buhari-led Presidency to intervene in the matter between the IOCs and NDDC to enable Mr Akwa to carry out his duties effectively and pay contractors.  

To this end, they also stressed that the leaders of the region should eliminate selfish interests and join hands together with the Interim Administrator to develop the region and deviate from fighting over who has brought who on board or who has not.

While making a passionate call on the elders and stakeholders in the region, Mr Tonye also implored the youths of the region to remain calm and allow for the development of the region for the overall betterment for all.

Dickson Condemns Massacre Of Innocent Worshippers At OWO

By Ere-ebi Agedah

The Senator representing Bayelsa West, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has condemned in strong terms the massacre of harmless worshippers at Owo, Ondo State.

The former Bayelsa Governor described the act as animalistic, barbaric, reprehensible, extremely callous and unthinkable.

Senator Dickson said that the barbaric act perpetrated by the savage criminals was one unimaginable evil targeted at the core of values of humanity.

The senator who made the comment in a statement on Tuesday said that the gruesome act was a violent assault which can sear the conscience of the nation if not immediately addressed.

He called on the Federal Government to ensure that all measures are put in place to track down those responsible for the unacceptable, abominable act.

The Senator said that it is only when when the cruel criminals with no value for human life are dealt with and justice seen to have been done according to the law that Nigerians will have a likeness of reassurance.

He also call for support for the security agents who are toiling day and night to restore order in troubled areas not to relent in their patriotic sacrifices of the peace of the nation.

The Senator urged Nigerians irrespective of religion, region and ethnicity to unite against those perpetrating acts capable of being misinterpreted with dire consequences.

He said that what happened was a mind boggling crime perpetrated by sick minds adding that rather than reading sectional meanings, Nigerians should put up a concerted action against them.

He condoled with the families of victims, the Catholic Church, ondo State Government, the Olowo of Owo and prayed to God to give the family the fortitude to bear this loss

Meet Our Man Crush Monday: Mr. Michael Ukiye Diongoli

Mr. Michael U. Diongoli is a serial businessman and financial management expert. He is the Group Managing Director of UK-DION GROUP. 

A group of companies postured to add value in the financial, real estate and entertainment industries, as it’s their mantra ‘we simply add value’. 

The group is operational in key states of Nigeria, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, Warri and Abuja with multiple offices in some of these states. 

UK Dion group has the vision to be West Africa’s leading, most distinctive servicing and solutions hub that adds value to all stakeholders. 

Deploying timely global compliant strategies, under the esteemed leadership of Mr. Michael Diongoli, the conglomerate is fast fulfilling this vision.

Interestingly this multi-million dollar group with a mission to build trust, ensure value addition and wealth creation for clients; had started as the brain child of Mr. Michael Diongoli, and was lunched right in his sitting room with a startup capital of just about three thousand naira only. 

Through this phase of humble beginning, Mr. Michael Diongoli had his focus on the goal and was quite certain that in deploying the right skill-sets, competence and commitment the global picture in his head would soon be his reality. 

He holds the philosophy true that it is okay to start small but not to remain small, in his words “You can start locally but think globally and much more develop global compliant competences and expertise”.

In line with his values Mr. Michael Diongoli had not only hoped for a large scale business but prepared and positioned himself to operate an international scale business; as he systematically acquired certifications that support and oxygenate his global visions. 

He is a B.Sc. holder in Business Management, and has a Master’s Degree in International Business and Management, from the prestigious University of Bradford in the United Kingdom. 

Furthermore, in consolidating his expertise, the astute businessman worked as a financial adviser with Lowell Financials in the U.K. and later became a mortgage adviser with Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) then a financial adviser with Barclays Bank and NatWest Bank all in the U.K. 

Mr. M. Diongoli is an experienced, certified financial advisor and a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA) he is also a Fellow, Institute of Management Specialists (FIMS) with over 10 years working experience in the finance industry.

He has developed a wide range of competences, viable ideas and exceptional management skills in finance and investments. 

This has allowed him to enjoy in-depth knowledge of the economic and financial situation in the country and across the African Continent. 

Michael Diongoli has an affable nature which has enabled him build a lasting relationship with clients over the years. 

He is a man of international repute. 

This scholarly business guru ‘Mr. Michael Ukiye Diongoli’ with undeniable results is our man crush Mondy.

Michael Ukiye Diongoli Is Indeed A Role Model Worthy Of Emulation.

He is our man crush for today monday the 6th of June 2022.

Born into the royal family of the Diongoli's in the Kolokuma/ Opokuma local government area of present day Bayelsa State. Michael Diongoli has grown to build a business empire for himself, establishing his brand as a leading financial institution in the nation and stamping his name in the sands of time. 

As financial expert known world over for his tact in financial operations. 

He has shown an unwavering interest and unbridled commitment to human capacity development.

Mr Michael Diongoli has mastered the craft of breaking even in business spheres and has help dozens of startups benefit from his exposure and wealth of experience in the financial ecosystem.

A trained and certified financial adviser who has consulted for the Royal Bank of  Scotland; Barclay's Bank, NatWest Bank and many others around the world. 

His unconventional, out of the box approach to  business and particularly financial decision making; has earned his clients numerous solutions to key institutional challenges/problems.

Michael Diongoli is a globally sort after phenomenon renowned to have practical solutions to economy crises and recession.

His involvements in economic oriented projects had road mapped economic possibilities in the mist of bleak options.

The business magnate being a firm believer in the nation Nigeria, operates his business headquarters from Lagos State, Nigeria; and extends his services to the entirety of West Africa.  

He believes that the collective sufferings in the land Africa is the untamed strength we need to pioneer and engineer our economic revolution. Thus, he chooses to operate his business from Nigeria, despite having the options of doing business from almost anywhere in the world.

“The mind is the most powerful part of human existence, it is the brooding ground for success. 

All thoughts and aspirations are conceived and processed here before execution. 

Wining the mind game implies winning life’s game, and thriving in any sphere of life”.

The founder of UK-DION Mr. Michael Diongoli, a financial expert and business thought leader made this known while speaking with a crop of young entrepreneurs in Africa. 

The man who rose from starting a business with just three thousand naira from his parlour has increased his fortune to a multi billion naira venture. 

He attributes his successes to deliberate tasking of his mind. 

In his words “I constantly strive to feed my mind with positivity and commission it to learn at every given opportunity. I am here today because my mind is continuously programmed to seek for new truths and disrupt the old”.

Michael Diongoli admonishes aspiring entrepreneurs and SME's not to joke with tasking their minds to get their desired results. 

He believes that developing oneself and consciously getting exposed to 21st century relevant economic knowledge is key to business success.

Man Crush Monday!!!

Mr. Michael Diongoli, an under forty financial expert has proven that the Niger Delta is blessed with oil in our brains beyond the oil in our land. He has caused a lot of disruptions in the financial space owing to his depth of knowledge and result oriented approach as a financial advisor.

Having towed the path of a pacesetter and pathfinder Ambassador Lawrence Ekpebu, the first African graduate of the prestigious Harvard University. Michael Diongoli has carved a niche for himself in the financial ecosystem.

The University of Bradford trained business and management guru has served as financial advisor to reputable international and national financial institutions, with remarkable results that has earned him the reputation of a global financial expert.

His cutting-edge solutions had given blockbuster achievements to his numerous clientele base.

Interestingly, Michael U. Diongoli is a down to earth personality inspite of his expertise and practical experience on how to turnaround bearish financial realities into assets and eventually bullish endpoints.

He is a realist who totally believes that hard work rewards faster than cutting corners.

In his words “Never try to cut corners to survive, because you may just be cutting your surviving lifeline to success”.

He is an outstanding leader who has mentored so many business men and women in to building successful brand.

NDDC Contractors Frowns At Planned Protest On Former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Akpabio, Akwa

The Contractors Association of the Niger Delta Development (NDDC) has disassociated itself from recent meetings and plans held in Port Harcourt Rivers State to mobilize agents to attack the premises of former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio and Sole Administrator of the NDDC, Effiong Akwa.

President of the contractors, Sylvester Iyade Tonye conveyed this in a statement issued on Friday, describing the planned protesters as “hijackers and saboteurs trying to disorganize the NDDC.”  

"We got credible information that the boys are already in Abuja to carry out a protest.

“The Contractors Association of NDDC has disassociated itself from clandestine groups organizing to attack the NDDC building and premises or carrying out any form disturbance of public peace in form of protest in Abuja. 

“Some hijackers and clandestine saboteurs are trying to disorganize the NDDC by using the name of Contractors Association of NDDC for their personal and selfish purpose. The Contractors Association of NDDC is not a violent association, we are people of integrity, good will and like mind that want the unity and development of the Niger Delta region.

“We therefore use this opportunity to warn the hijackers and destroyers of the Niger Delta region to desist from any form of violence and any form of protest as our contry does not need any form of distraction at the moment," Tonye stated.

The contractors further condemned and rejected the current paralysis of the NDDC and dishonouring of commitments by Oil Company despite efforts made by the contractors association and other stakeholders in region.

They also thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his good works in the region.