West Africa: JONAPWD Moves For Leadership, Equal Rights For Women With Disabilities

By Ebi Kesiena

The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) is championing the rights of women with disabilities in West Africa.

At a workshop in Abuja, aimed at enhancing their capacity to lead and organize representative organizations, the group said the initiative is part of the "Holding Rights, Leading for Rights" funding stream, supported by the Disability Rights Fund/Disability Rights Advocacy Fund DRF/DRAF, a U.S. Federal Government-funded project.

Speaking to journalists, National President of JONAPWD, Abdullahi Aliyu Usman, emphasized on the importance of this workshop in empowering women with disabilities from Ghana, Togo, Senegal, and Nigeria, adding that it will equip the women to spearhead wider opportunities.

Lamenting the limited opportunities available to women with disabilities, Usman maintained that at the end of the workshop, participants will gain the skills needed to advocate for their rights, challenge gender-based violence, and foster regional collaboration with mainstream women's movements for greater disability inclusion.

While presenting a Keynote address, Dr. Joan Jummai Idonije, Director PRS Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, underlined the progress in women's rights in Africa, driven by the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She stressed the continued need to emphasize disability rights to ensure equal access to opportunities for all individuals with disabilities.

Additionally, addressing a Press conference on the sidelines of the workshop, West Africa Program Manager for the Disability Rights Fund, Theophilus Odaudu, underscored the importance of supporting women with disabilities through participatory grant making and intersectional movement building. 

He noted that it had become imperative to ensure that women with disabilities are fully integrated into mainstream women's movements, hence the need for further advocacy for their rights and lead within civil society.

"As we know, women with disabilities in West Africa and across the globe faced multiple forms of discrimination and high rate of human rights violations and also receive only a very small fraction of human rights funding. As a result, they are excluded from advocating for their rights and participating as leaders in civil society and civil society species including within the disability rights and women rights movement". 

Odaudu emphasized on the critical need to support the efforts of women with disabilities through Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (opds), particularly those focused on women in West Africa. He highlighted the importance of fostering cross-movement collaboration with women's rights groups by providing resources and capacity development, adding that this approach will ensure that women with disabilities can lead alongside other stakeholders in the pursuit of equal rights.

NiDCOM Boss Congratulates Dr Ayeni, Dr Ijeoma Akunyili On Their Elections

Hon.(Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/ CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has congratulated the duo of Dr. Olufemi Ayeni and Dr. Ijeoma Akunyili on their recent elections.

While Dr. Olufemi Ayemi emerged as the 79th Canadian Orthopaedic Association’s President, Dr. Ijeoma Akunyili was also elected as an Alumni Board Member of Harvard Kennedy School, USA.

In her congratulatory message, the elated NiDCOM boss applauded their victory, describing the feat as a mark of their dedication, hardwork, , strive for success and determination for excellence.

She prayed for their success, urging them to put in their best as usual and keep bringing glory to the nation.

Dr. Ayeni, a Professor and an Academic Division Head of Orthopedic Surgery at McMaster University became a member of the Canadian Orthopedic Association (COA) on the very first day of his residency in 2002 and same at McMaster university, a feat he considers a joy of his lifetime.

He is the youngest and first Canadian Orthopedic Association President of both Nigerian and African descent in an association that has run for decades.

Dr. Ijeoma Akunyili who last year was named the Chief Medical Officer of the Jersey City Medical Center, an RWJ Barnabas Health Facility in the USA will assume her role as an alumni board member of the institution and will serve for four years.

Congratulations to the duo, wishing them great success as they move to the next level.

Information Minister Mourns Wife of Former Niger State Deputy Governor

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has extended a heart felt deep condolences to the Niger State Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Alhaji Garba Yakubu, and his entire family on the tragic loss of his beloved wife, Hajia Zainab.

Idris stated that words cannot adequately express the sorrow and sympathy felt for the Deputy Governor during this incredibly difficult time. He noted that the late Zainab was a remarkable woman whose kindness and dedication touched the lives of many, and her contributions to Niger State have left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know her.

He emphasized that her demise is a huge loss not only to Niger State and the womenfolk but to the nation in general. In this time of mourning, Idris expressed that their thoughts and prayers are with the Deputy Governor, and they stand with him, offering their support and strength as he navigates through this profound loss.

He concluded by praying that the memories of the beautiful moments they shared together bring the Deputy Governor comfort and solace. May God repose her soul and grant the Deputy Governor and the entire family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

UAE To Support Bayelsa State On Agric, Gas, Seaport Development

 

The United Arab Emirates has said it will support Bayelsa State in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region to develop its gas resources, agriculture and seaport.

The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, stated this at a meeting with the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, at the embassy in Abuja on Tuesday.

The UAE envoy, who appreciated Governor Diri’s visit, noted that it was the first time they were meeting but that he had followed developments in Bayelsa and was impressed with his performance in office.

Al-Shamsi commended the governor for establishing a new ministry on blue economy to tap into and develop the state’s maritime potentialities.

He also said information available to him was that Bayelsa was peaceful and had recently successfully conducted local government election.

He said his country was willing to collaborate and support the state and would welcome a visit of its team to Abu Dhabi, the UAE capital city.

According to Al-Shamsi, “We appreciate this visit and the opportunity to explore areas of cooperation and support.

“The UAE is ready to discuss any area of interest between Bayelsa and Abu Dhabi and willing to support the state towards developing its oil and gas resources, its agricultural sector and the seaport.

“You have just established a Ministry of Blue Economy. As a maritime environment, the establishment of this ministry is very commendable.

“The Dubai Ports will meet with your team and they can discuss how to develop your seaport. We will arrange a meeting with the ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company) team on oil and gas development as well as with our Agriculture Minister.”

The UAE ambassador appreciated the robust relationship between his country and Nigeria, stating that all outstanding issues between both countries will soon be resolved.

He also commended Nigerians for their resilience in the face of the country’s economic challenges, saying the UAE was willing to support President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria to overcome them.

Responding, the Bayelsa governor equally expressed appreciation to the envoy for the warm reception.

Governor Diri noted that his visit was divine as the ambassador already had in mind virtually all he wanted to discuss with him.

He welcomed the opportunity of meeting with UAE officials to foster bilateral cooperation and relationship also in areas of educational and science and technology development.

Diri said the state seeks private investors to develop its seaport at Agge in Ekeremor Local Government Area and expressed excitement about the proposal of the envoy, saying the port will serve the whole of the Niger Delta and the South East.

He stated that Bayelsa was an oil and gas-rich state but is seeking investors on gas as an alternative revenue source and as the country transits to gas as a cleaner energy.

The governor assured that his team was ready to meet with the UAE officials to discuss the areas of collaboration.

NDDC: Ughakpoteni Bows Out, Thompson-Wakama Steps Up to Lead Corporate Communications

With a mix of pride and nostalgia, I, Pius Ughakpoteni, announce my retirement as the Director of Corporate Affairs at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), effective June 26, 2024.

I am deeply grateful to the Managing Director/CEO of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for his astute leadership and for considering wise counsel in approving the recommendation for my posting as the Director of Corporate Affairs. Leading this department has been an immense privilege and a profoundly fulfilling journey. Throughout my tenure, I have been fortunate to work alongside a dedicated team of professionals and collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders committed to the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region.

I am especially grateful to my colleagues in the media, whose support and collaboration have been invaluable to our success. As a proud alumnus of the ThisDay family, I have always cherished the strong relationships I have built within the media industry. These connections have not only enriched my professional experience but have also played a pivotal role in amplifying the NDDC's message and ensuring transparency in our operations.

As I embark on my next chapter, I will be fully engaged in two of my passions: lifelong learning and knowledge dissemination. In addition to running the Center for Corporate Sustainability Performance Advancement, where I will leverage my doctoral research from Business School Lausanne to work with C-suite executives on advancing corporate sustainability performance, I will dedicate my time to advocating for the practical application of the lessons encapsulated in my new book, “Making the Niger Delta Work: Strategy Execution Tips from the Niger Delta Regional Development Master Plan and Essays on the Niger Delta.”

I am pleased to introduce Mrs. Seledi Thompson-Wakama, who belongs to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), as my successor at the NDDC. Mrs. Thompson-Wakama has been a vital part of the NDDC's history for a long time, joining the Commission in 2004 and advancing through significant roles from Manager to Director. But Seledi is more than just an accomplished professional with a wealth of knowledge and a keen intellect. She was fortunate enough to work under the guidance of Mr. Anietie Usen and Dr. Christie Atako, the first two Heads of the Commission's Corporate Communications. Together, they cultivated the core values of integrity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that define our department today.

With a strong educational background from the University of Port Harcourt and the Mandelson School of Business and Management in the UK, as well as a recent Leadership Certificate from Harvard Business School, Mrs. Thompson-Wakama possesses a wealth of expertise in corporate governance, personnel management, and leadership. She has held key roles at prestigious organizations such as the NDDC, British American Insurance Limited, and the National Boundary Commission, demonstrating her capability to navigate complex organizational structures and deliver impactful results.

Reflecting on her appointment, Thompson-Wakama expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and pledged to continue the NDDC's commitment to transparency and accountability. "I am honored to be entrusted with this responsibility," she said. "Effective communication is essential to our success, and I am committed to building upon the strong foundation that Mr Ughakpoteni has established and ensuring that the NDDC’s message is heard loud and clear."

Mrs. Thompson-Wakama’s strategic vision, combined with her operational prowess and financial acumen, makes her an invaluable asset to the NDDC. I have full confidence in her ability to lead the Corporate Affairs department with distinction, building upon the strong foundation we have established and further enhancing the NDDC’s reputation as a transparent and accountable organization. I leave my role knowing that the NDDC is in capable hands. My exit today is in line with a plan Seledi and I have been working on over the past few weeks to ensure a seamless handover process and to uphold the high standards of corporate communications we have set. 

I am deeply grateful for the support I have received throughout my tenure at NDDC. I am proud of the progress we have made in advancing the organization's communication strategies and upholding its mission of sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. To all our stakeholders and partners, I extend my sincere appreciation for your collaboration and dedication. Your commitment to the NDDC’s mandate has been integral to our collective achievements.

I urge my friends in the media to embrace Seledi with the same warmth and camaraderie you have shown me, and together, let us continue to build upon the legacy we have nurtured. I am excited about the future and the opportunity to continue contributing to the field of corporate sustainability.

Pius Ughakpoteni

Outgoing Director of Corporate Affairs, NDDC.

BAYELSA SET FOR 5TH GOVERNOR DOUYE DIRI INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING PROGRAMME AND COACHING CLINIC …

 …10 FOREIGN SCOUTS , AGENTS EXPECTED BY 30TH JUNE.

The Central Organizing Committee (COC) of the Bayelsa Governor's Football Tournament, otherwise known as the Prosperity Cup, says it is set to flag off the 5th edition of the Governor Douye Diri International Scouting Programme and Coaching Clinic for coaches participating in the ongoing competition.

The scouting event sponsored by the organisers of Nigeria’s largest Grassroot Football Tournament is in collaboration with Tristone Football Club, OTP Finland, and Red Sapphire

According to a statement by Mr Ono K. Akpe, Director General, and Mr Perala Aboro, the Tournament Director/Head Scouting, the international coaching clinic which follows the recently organized refresher course for referees is in line with Governor Douye Diri's commitment to enhancing the capacity, skills, knowledge and empowerment of Bayelsans through strategic capacity building programmes.

The four-day programme will see foreign experts visit Bayelsa and impact knowledge of new coaching techniques to the grassroot coaches through comprehensive coaching courses, that will equip them with advanced techniques and strategies on how to train, nurture and develop young athletes to stardom.

The statement noted that resource persons will be led by Coach Glenn Stahl of Sweden, Hakan Uyanmis, football agent and CEO, and H-Sports management agency of Turkey. Other resource persons include: Mindaugas Malinauskas (Lithuania) a retired goalkeeper and current goalkeeper's Coach in Lithuania; Augustine Jibrin (Finland/Nigeria), Head Coach OTP United; Kestutis Petkus, Head Coach FK Babrungas Plunges (Lithuania); Ahmet Ozein, Agent Choil (Turkey); Hilary Azudo, Sporting Director OTP Finland; Peter Nieketen Ex-international and UEFA B Coach, Simas Kumza Sporting Director FK Babrugas Plug, Lithuania and the Coordinator of the programme Kelvin Etemike of Tristone.

A total of 50 coaches are expected to participate in the programme and due to the need to develop our grassroot coaches, team coaches that qualified for the Round of 32 will be sponsored by the tournament organisers as well as four state coaches and four female coaches, totaling forty coaches (40 coaches) and 10 external coaches.

However, other coaches, especially coaches from outside Bayelsa State who are interested in participating in the scouting programme and coaching clinic, are expected to pay a token of N20,000 only as course and registration fee.

The DG, in the statement, therefore called on coaches interested in participating in the coaching clinic slated for June 30th - July 3rd to get their registration forms through Dr Akpofini Odogu- 08065337798, Mr. Patrick - 07013165085 and Mrs Blessing - 07063485003.

He said the deadline for registration is Monday, 24th June 2024.

The statement concluded by notifying coaches that there is limited number of spaces available, so it will strictly be on 'first come first serve basis' calling on interested teams to parade exceptional and talented players within the ages of 18-20years.

Mr Akpe encouraged coaches and talented footballers in Bayelsa to take advantage of this once in a life time opportunity that can serve as a pedestal to achieving their dreams, boost their careers and eventually take them to the international stage.

He concluded by thanking the Games Master General of Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri, for his positive impact on the youths of Bayelsa through sports development.

Prosperity Cup Season 6, LGA Finals: Movers FC Emerge Ogbia LGA Champions

 

...Organizers Commend Ogbia Council Boss For A Colourful Final

Nigeria's biggest grassroots football tournament, the Prosperity Cup ongoing local government finals train, continued on Tuesday in Ogbia Local Government with Movers FC of Otuasega emerging Ogbia champions.

Bayelsa Governor's Football Tournament tagged the Prosperity Cup witnessed an unprecedented turn out of fans at the Otuasega Township Stadium and was watched by the Chairman of Ogbia Local Government, Hon Golden Jeremiah, Chief Whip of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon Michael Ogbara, Chief I.I. Afagha, former Ogbia PDP Caucus Chairman amongst other dignataries.

Movers FC of Otuasega joined the league of LGA Champions already boasting the likes of Krusaders Feeders FC of Ekeremor, Agbere FC of Sagbama, Odi United of Kolokuma/Opokuma, Kongho United of Brass.

Movers FC of Otuasega beat Anyama FC 2-1 to lift the trophy. Precious Omonibo saw off Brandy Ataria's challenge to feed Elton Mina who chipped the ball into the net in a sublime fashion to put the Otuasega side ahead 10 minutes into the game.

Mina almost made it 2-0 on 20 minutes but his effort was saved by the last man in the defence line of the opposition. Anyama FC should have their goalkeeper Darlington Emeka to thank who kept them in the game with crucial saves stopping Precious Omonibo and Sydney Appiah's shots as well.

Sydney Appiah doubled the lead for the Movers FC on 48 minutes from Precious Omonibo's beautiful low pass as he rifled home to score the second goal for Movers FC who completely outclassed the Anyama side.

Vincent Azibapu who was in great form for the Anyama FC replied for Anyama FC on 82 minutes but was unable to secure the second goal that would have stretched the game to penalties.

Chairman of Ogbia Local Government Area, Hon Golden Jeremiah in his remarks, said the quality of football displayed by both sides has shown that Ogbia is filled with talents that would represent the nation in the future.

The Ogbia council boss thanked Governor Douye Diri and the organizers of the tournament for giving the youths the platform to put their lives on the right track through sports, urging both teams to give Ogbia good representation as the tournament progresses.

He commended the Movers FC and Anyama FC for the orderliness and the show of professionalism, describing grassroots football as the bedrock of football in every nation.

Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon Daniel Baralate Igali represented by the Assistant Director Human Resources Management, Ministry of Sports Development, Mr. Mike Ede-Alakere remarked that the tournament is a means to curb crime and social vices by giving the youths a profitable line of occupation. 

According to him, the Prosperity Administration was committed to engaging young Bayelsans meaningfully through football and as well build capacity in the youths, saying that he was impressed with the electrifying atmosphere in Otuasega.

Director-General of the tournament, Mr. Ono Akpe in an address, thanked the people of Ogbia for the hospitality, describing the final as the best witnessed so far in the ongoing local government finals putting the clement weather, hospitality, ambiance and football displayed. 

Mr. Akpe noted that the support by the governor, Senator Douye Diri has been massive in the tournament, pointing out that outstanding players have been identified in both teams that would join the international scouting exercise at the end of this month.

He explained that about ten scouts from Europe are expected to be in Bayelsa for the international scouting program alongside a coaching clinic for local coaches to be acquainted with modern coaching techniques.

Earlier, Tournament Director, Mr. Perela Aboro appreciated the Chairman of Ogbia Local Government and the people of Otuasega for the colourful atmosphere.

Also, Chief Whip of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon Gabriel Ogbara lauded the organizers of the spectacle for investing in the youth.

Members of the Prosperity Cup LOC including the DDG Corporate Affairs, Deacon Zuobomowei Emmanuel Appah, the Tournament Director, Mr Perela Aboro, the Technical Director, Diseye Nwankwe, Mr Ada Gwegwe, Marvelous Marcauley Akpuluma Jr led by Mr. Ono Akpe alongside Mr Mike Ede-Alakere the representative of the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development had joined the Chairman of Ogbia Local Government, Hon. Golden Jeremiah to the Otuasega Township Hall where they received by the chiefs, elders, CDC and the youths of Otuasega before the game.

Organisers of the Prosperity Cup presented a plaque and one hundred thousand naira (N100,000.00) to Movers FC of Otuasega, a plaque and fifty thousand naira (N50,000.00) to Anyama FC and an award to the Ogbia Council Boss for his support to the development of sports and ensuring a successful final.

The highlight of the event was the donation of a new pair of jerseys by the member representing Ogbia Federal Constituency in the House of Representative, Hon. Mitema Obordor to Movers FC as the Champions of Ogbia Local Government Area.

The LGA Finals Train moves to the Nembe Township Stadium on Thursday for another exciting final between Nembe FC and Fisherman's Sons FC .