By Chibuzor Ogode

The Director General of Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency, Patrick Ukah, has expressed satisfaction with the spate and level of work done by contractors handling the ongoing road construction work on the newly awarded House of Assembly Delta State Service Commission Road which is about 1.7 Meters in Oshimili South LGA.

The Director General, who visited the construction site accompanied by the Head of Projects/ Monitoring and Evaluation, Engineer Bawo Atsiangbe, expressed delight in the quality of materials used by the contractors and the level at which the work is going.

Other roads visited during the inspection yesterday, March 17, 2025, are Odilison E.C. Junior Crescent, Ngozi Odiaka Avenue, and Odilison Close in Okpanam.

The DDPA core and the reconstruction of Marine Road in Oshimili South LGA were also inspected,  Arena Estate which is about 1.1km, and Jeremiah Eboh Street which is a 400km road was also inspected by the Director General.

It will be recalled that these roads were recently approved by the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, as part of the MORE Agenda to drive infrastructural development within the Capital Territory and make life more meaningful to the people.

By Chibuzor Ogode

Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA), in collabiration with the Delta State Waste Management Board and the State Taskforce on Environment, today 17/3 2025 , flagged off a one-month special clean up exercise and enforcement of premises sanitation within the Capital Territory.

The exercise was flagged off by the Director General of the Agency, Chief Patrick Ukah, flanked by the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Waste Management Board, Hon Matthew Mofe Edema, the Chairman, State Taskforce on Environment, Chief Godspower Asiuwhu, among others.

The Asagba – in – Council was fully represented on the occasion, which was also replicated in Okpanam.

In his remarks, Chief Ukah recalled that notice for the exercise was given sometime last year, but had to be delayed to give residents enough time to comply with the set rules and regulations.

According to him, the exercise would involve clean up of selected areas, sensitization of residents on sanitation best practices, premises inspection, provision of waste bins, and PSP registration.

The exercise will last for a period of one month

The monitoring team would also be looking out for painting of fences, beautification of setbacks, which must not be within 15 meters from the road, provision of security lights, clearing of overgrown grasses and others.

The DG urged residents of the Capital City not to wait to be compelled to clean up their surroundings, as that would attract sanctions, adding that a Mobile Court was in place to prosecute offenders.

Ukah commended the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof Epiphany Azinge, for his interest in the cleanliness of Asaba and for seeking to flush out miscreants and criminal elements from the state capital.

Ukah used the opportunity to appeal to residents to be more serious with the issue of security, insisting that they must be concerned about the manner of persons living in their neighborhood.

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman, Delta State Waste Management Board, Hon Matthew Mofe Edema and the Chairman, State Taskforce on Environment, Chief Godspower Asiuwhu, stressed the need for residents of the State Capital Territory to imbibe the environmental best practices and pledged their total support for the clean up exercise.

The honor of Asaba, Chief Patrick Ndili, who spoke on behalf of the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof Epiphany Azinge, commended the critical stakeholders for the initiative, pointing out that the Asaba community had resolved to complement the efforts of the state government in different ways, including environmental cleanliness and operation know your tenant and neighbor to enhance security in the capital Territory.

Over fifty corps members in Warri zonal Area on Tuesday participated in a training programme launch on enhancing the pedagogical skills of corps members organized by Tompolo foundation in Partnership with Delta State National youth service Corps.

Speaking during the official launch of the training programme,the chairman and founder of Tompolo foundation,CHIEF GOVERNMENT OWEIZIDE EKPOMUPOLO stated that the Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to initiatives that promote quality education.

In his opening remarks the chairman of Tompolo foundation,High Chief Government Ekpomupolo who noted that
Education remains the foundation of social transformation, stressed that teachers play a crucial role in shaping society’s future.

He revealed that growing up in the creeks of the Niger Delta and now serving as Chairman of the Tompolo Foundation he has witnessed firsthand challenges being faced by corps members in effectively teaching students particularly in rural and riverine communities in Delta State .

The chairman of Tompolo foundation said Corps members bridged the gap of insufficient teachers in the rural and riverine areas but lack the basic pedagogical skills needed to carry out the teaching business effectively,adding that was the reason for the foundation to partner with Delta State NYSC to equip the corps members serving as teachers with the basic skills to engage the students effectively and inspire critical thinking among the learners.
Chief Ekpomupolo who was represented by Dr Paul Bebenimibo added that the Tompolo foundation has been assisting corps members with stipends ,accommodations and other incentives to encourage those of them teaching in the riverine and rural areas .

Chief Ekpomupolo stated that
well-trained corps members will leave a lasting impact on the students they teach, fostering a generation that is better equipped for the future.

The founder of Tompolo foundation revealed that by addressing the pedagogical gaps among corps members will enhance their quality of teaching, strengthening the broader education system, and contributing to national development.

He added that Tompolo Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to initiatives that promote quality education.

Earlier the commissioner for Basic secondary Education,Mrs Rose Ezewu while commending the Tompolo foundation and Delta NYSC for the official launch of the training programme enjoined other stakeholders to emulate the foundation .

Mrs Ezewu who was represented by Chief Ejiroghene Erifevieme stated that she look forward to seeing the impact the training on pedagogical skills will have on the NYSC members and schools .

Also speaking Chief MacDonald Igbaduwei commended the Tompolo foundation for training corps members posted to rural areas .

He noted that the gesture will enhance and sharpened their teaching skills thereby making learning interesting for the pupils and students .

A lecture titled Pedagogical skills: A key imperative for Enhancing quality education in Nigeria by Dr oghenevwede Oyovwi x-rays the importance of training corps members posted to both public and private schools in the riverine and rural areas .

Dr Oyovwi thanked Tompolo foundation and Delta State NYSC for the initive ,saying after the training the corps members will be enhanced with the necessary skills to teach the learners in their various mandate areas .
He listed the benefits of enhancing pedagogical skills to include increased confidence and effectiveness,Better classroom management,improved community engagement amongst others .
The Director of Education Projects Tompolo foundation,Dr Job Bebenimibo revealed that the training programme will kick off officially on Wednesday March 19, 2025 with the training of 50 corps members in the first batch .

National youth service corps NYSC was established on May 22,1973 by the Nigerian government during the military regime of head of state ,Yakubu Gowon to promote national unity, self-reliance and community development.

BY JOE OGBODU

A bill sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta North) aimed at amending the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 towards the regulation of social media platforms operating in the country, has passed its second reading at the Nigerian Senate.

The bill christened “An Act to Alter the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, LFN, to Mandate the Establishment of Physical Offices within the Territorial Boundaries of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by Social Media Platforms, and for Related Matters, 2024”, which was read for the first time on Thursday, November 21, 2024, when passed into law would mandates social media platforms, data controllers, and data processors to establish physical offices within Nigeria’s territorial boundaries.

The bill’s primary objective is to address the challenges posed by the absence of local offices for social media giants in Nigeria.

Leading the debate on the proposal which he described as “not only of national importance but is also central to Nigeria’s sovereignty, economy, and technological development”, on Tuesday, Senator Ned Nwoko, said that the Bill seeks to correct a glaring omission in how multinational social media companies engage with our country.

Senator Nwoko emphasized the importance of social media platforms having a physical presence in Nigeria, citing the country’s user base and the value generated from Nigerian participation.

He said that the challenges posed by absence of physical offices of the social media giants include limited local representation, missed economic opportunities, and difficulties in enforcing data protection laws.

“Our dear nation, Nigeria, is not just the most populous country in Africa; we are also one of the most active when it comes to digital engagement. With over 220 million people, social media has become an essential part of our daily lives.”

Quoting the Global Web Index as reported by Business Insider Africa, Senator Nwoko posited that Nigerians rank first in Africa and second globally in terms of daily social media usage, spending an average of 3 hours and 46 minutes online.

“Platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat have become indispensable to millions of our people”, he said.

According to him, despite the enormous user base and the value generated from Nigerian participation, these multinational corporations have no physical offices in Nigeria, adding that this stands in sharp contrast to their presence in other countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, Singapore, and Australia, where they maintain offices to address regional concerns, manage content policies, and build partnerships.

He noted that multinational corporations like MTN, Shell, Chevron, Nestlé, and Total have thrived in Nigeria by establishing local offices, creating jobs, and enriching the workforce through training and partnerships.

He, however, lamented that the absence of physical offices has deprived the nation of numerous opportunities pointing out that economically, it denies Nigeria the benefits of job creation in areas such as customer service, content moderation, legal compliance, and marketing.

“Imagine the thousands of young Nigerians who could be employed by these companies, gaining valuable skills and contributing to our economy. Technology transfer is another area where Nigeria stands to benefit immensely. Countries like China and South Korea became leaders in electronics and automobile manufacturing by fostering local partnerships with foreign firms and adapting their technologies.

“If these social media giants establish a local presence, Nigerian engineers, developers, and tech professionals will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in the world and adapt cutting-edge technologies, he reiterated.

While saying that the bill, is not an attack on the platforms, he said “it is a call for equity and fairness. It is a demand for respect and recognition of Nigeria’s status as a global leader in digital engagement”.

By Kenneth Orusi

The political landscape of Delta State witnessed a significant shake-up with the defection of Senator Ned Nwoko to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that has not only energized the party’s base but also shifted the balance of power in the state’s political dynamics.

Senator Nwoko, known for his widespread influence, philanthropic strides, and grassroots connection, brought with him a vibrant political presence and a substantial following from across Delta North and beyond.

His entry into the APC has been described by political observers as a “game-changer” ahead of future electoral contests, particularly as the party positions itself as a formidable alternative in Delta State.

Beyond the symbolic weight of his defection, Senator Nwoko’s move has attracted supporters, party loyalists, and neutral observers who see in him a unifying figure with the potential to bridge gaps within the APC and galvanize broader support across ethnic and regional lines.

His political style, marked by accessibility, a focus on youth empowerment, and developmental advocacy, adds fresh appeal to the party, especially among young voters and first-time participants in politics.

In the weeks following his defection, the APC in Delta has seen a surge in membership registration and increased activity at ward and local government levels, particularly in Delta North, where Nwoko’s influence is strongest.

His presence at party meetings and rallies has drawn large crowds, infusing renewed energy into the APC’s public engagements.

Party insiders have lauded Nwoko’s decision as a colourful boost that not only enhances the party’s image but also brings a new level of seriousness to its ambition of taking over the reins of leadership in Delta.

“Nwoko’s entry into the APC would bolster the party’s influence in Delta State, especially as the region now boasts three APC senators, giving the party a strategic edge,” said Chief Emma Ejiofor, an APC chieftain.

As Delta APC gears up for future elections, Senator Nwoko’s defection is seen as a strategic advantage, positioning the party to challenge the status quo more effectively.

While challenges remain, especially in harmonizing diverse interests within the party, Nwoko’s entry offers a unique opportunity for consolidation and growth.

In a state where political loyalty often shifts with changing tides, Senator Nwoko’s move has undoubtedly added colour, character, and momentum to Delta APC’s journey toward greater relevance and possible dominance in the political arena.

* Kenneth Orusi, is the Publisher and Editor-in-chief of The Story and Chairman, ICC, Delta NUJ.

By Kenneth Orusi

The intervention of Senators Ned Nwoko, Ede Dafinone, and Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, alongside Rt. Hon. Francis Waive, in the Okuama crisis has drawn commendations from various quarters.

Their roles in addressing the violence that erupted in the Delta community have been recognized as crucial in de-escalating tensions and pushing for justice.

The lawmakers, representing different constituencies in Delta State, were actively involved in legislative and diplomatic efforts following the tragic killing of soldiers and the subsequent military invasion of Okuama.

Their advocacy for peace, justice, and rehabilitation of affected communities has been widely acknowledged.

Legislative Actions and Advocacy

Senator Nwoko, representing Delta North, was among the first to call for a thorough investigation into the killings, urging authorities to ensure that innocent civilians were not caught in the aftermath.

He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes security without violating human rights.

Senator Dafinone (Delta Central) and Senator Onowakpo (Delta South) similarly pushed for the protection of civilians and sought assurances from security agencies that due process would be followed.

Their calls for transparency in the military’s response were seen as an attempt to prevent further humanitarian crises.

It would be recall that in April 2024, a significant event unfolded in Delta State, Nigeria, involving the detention and subsequent release of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe I, the monarch of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area.

The monarch’s detention was linked to a tragic incident in Okuama community, where 17 military personnel lost their lives.

Following the incident, the Nigerian Army declared King Ikolo and seven others wanted.

Demonstrating his commitment to due process, the monarch voluntarily surrendered to the Delta State Police Command, which subsequently handed him over to military authorities for investigation.

The monarch’s detention prompted swift action from Delta State’s political representatives. Senators Ede Dafinone (Delta Central), Ned Nwoko (Delta North), and Joel Onowakpo-Thomas (Delta South) engaged with military authorities to advocate for the king’s release.

Their concerted efforts culminated in a meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, and other military officials.

On April 19, 2024, the Nigerian Army released King Ikolo into the custody of Senator Dafinone, who acted as a surety, ensuring the monarch’s availability for any further investigations.

The release was formalized at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, where the Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that while preliminary investigations had not conclusively established the monarch’s culpability, the inquiry remained ongoing.

Showing his appreciation, the traditional ruler of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom His Royal Majesty (HRM), Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe I, expressed gratitude to Senator Ned Nwoko, the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly (NASS), for his pivotal role in securing the recent release of an Okuama leader who had been detained by the military for several months.

In a release on Sunday December 29, 2024, the monarch commended Senator Nwoko for his unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns of the Okuama people and his tireless efforts in promoting peace and fostering reconciliation.

The release reads in part: “We are grateful for the timely intervention and support of Senator Nwoko, which led to the release of one of the community leaders.

“His actions have not only brought relief to Okuama community but have also reaffirmed our faith in collaborative leadership,” the monarch said.

Rt. Hon. Francis Waive, representing the Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency, took his concerns to the House of Representatives, advocating for urgent government intervention in resettling displaced residents.

He also pressed for security reforms to prevent a recurrence of such violence.

As investigations into the Okuama crisis continue, the role of these lawmakers will remain critical. Advocacy for justice, reconstruction efforts, and long-term peacebuilding measures will determine the effectiveness of their intervention.

For now, their efforts have been noted, but expectations remain high for concrete results.

* Kenneth Orusi, is the Publisher and Editor-in-chief of The Story and Chairman, ICC, Delta NUJ.

Defending the Senate’s Integrity Against Emotional Manipulation and Misrepresentation

Distinguished Nigerians,

It is important that we separate facts from sensationalism and resist the growing trend of exploiting gender sentiments to mask disorderly conduct within the Senate. The legislative chamber is not a battleground for personal grievances or emotional outbursts but a place of order, debate, and democratic principles.

The recent outcry over the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been twisted into a false narrative of victimization and suppression. Let it be clear: what was before the Senate was not her petition—something she herself has confirmed—but her conduct on the Senate floor, which violated the decorum expected of lawmakers.

“Seat Reallocation Is a Standard Senate Practice”

The issue started with a simple matter—seat reallocation. This is a normal and longstanding practice in the Senate. I have personally been moved three times.

Here’s how it works:

Whenever a senator leaves for any reason—whether due to death, defection, or other circumstances—there is an adjustment in the seating arrangement. This happens across both party lines, and it is not targeted at any individual. The idea is to ensure that seats are properly arranged based on seniority, party balance, and Senate rules.

For instance, a ranking senator sits in the front row. If that senator leaves, a new member cannot just take that seat. Instead, everyone shifts accordingly. It is a process where multiple senators move to achieve the right balance.

Everybody moves. Not just one person. The movement is done in a way that maintains the structure of the Senate. A fresher does not just sit where a senior senator was. The arrangement is reshuffled in a way that ensures order and respects seniority.

This is a routine adjustment that happens all the time. It is not a new practice. It is not targeted at any one person. It is simply how the Senate works.

“Senator Natasha Refused to Move and Caused a Disruption”

On that day, Senator Natasha was asked to move to a new seat. Instead of complying, she refused. That, in itself, was already an issue because every other senator understands that seating changes happen regularly.

But what followed was even more concerning. She became uncontrollable, raising her voice, shouting, “I am not scared of you!” We all saw the video. That display was completely uncalled for.

At that moment, it was no longer about a seat—it was about discipline, order, and respect for the institution. If every senator decided to resist a simple procedural adjustment in that manner, the Senate would be ungovernable.

“The Senate Followed Due Process”

After that incident, the Senate Committee on Ethics invited her for a disciplinary hearing. That is the proper procedure. The committee heard from those who were present that day, and all agreed that she had acted in an unruly manner. The report that was submitted was clear—her conduct on the floor was unacceptable, and she should be suspended.

I personally reached out to her during this process. I sent her messages because, as a lawyer, I know that before any judgment is passed, a person must be given an opportunity to state their case.

I asked her:
“Are you prepared to apologize so that I can speak on your behalf? Ask that you be given the opportunity to apologize.”

She responded that she did no wrong.

That didn’t stop me. I told her directly: You are wrong. I watched the video. I saw what happened. The report before us was not about any sexual harassment claim—it was strictly about her disorderly conduct.

Misogyny Is Not the Issue—Disorderly Conduct Is

Some voices are trying to frame this as an attack on women in politics. That is a manipulation of the truth. Nigeria has many strong female leaders who have made their mark through discipline, strategic engagement, and respect for institutional processes. The Senate is not and has never been against women.

However, no lawmaker—man or woman—is above the rules of the chamber. The issue here is not gender; it is the expectation that all Senators must conduct themselves with decorum and respect for the institution they serve. The rules of engagement apply equally to all members, and when a Senator repeatedly flouts those rules, there must be consequences.

“The Allegations of Sexual Harassment Were Never Before the Senate”

One thing that must be made clear is that the Senate did not deliberate on any sexual harassment allegations. That matter is before the courts, and the courts will decide.

It is highly unlikely that she will win such a case, because the alleged incident supposedly happened over a year ago. She had multiple opportunities to report it to the Senate, the police, or any authority, yet she did not.

Even after this alleged incident, she traveled multiple times with the Senate President for international events, well-documented online. She was in the same spaces as him, attended meetings with him, and was often with her husband during these trips.

To now come forward and narrow these allegations to a particular day, a particular time—when her husband was within range, when other people were present, when the Senate President’s wife was in the family house—raises serious questions. It is highly unlikely that such discussions would take place in such a setting.

The Senate Must Uphold Discipline and Order

The Senate is not a chaotic town hall where emotions dictate decisions. There are clear procedures for addressing grievances, presenting petitions, and debating national issues. Senator Natasha was not sanctioned for submitting a petition—she was sanctioned for her behavior on the Senate floor.

If we allow sentiments to override discipline, the Senate will become ungovernable. This is not about suppressing opposition or silencing voices; it is about maintaining the dignity of the institution and ensuring that every member adheres to the same standards of conduct.

“Exploiting Feminine Sentiments for Political Gain”

It is disingenuous to claim that this is a case of gender-based suppression when the facts point to a different reality. The real danger is allowing the rules to be bent simply because a particular lawmaker chooses to play the victim card when confronted with the consequences of their actions.

Leadership comes with responsibility. Every Senator, regardless of gender, must conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity of the Red Chamber. If we start excusing unruly behavior because of gender, then we are setting a dangerous precedent where rules become optional based on emotional appeal.

“The Role of Her Husband in This Escalation”

I was also deeply disappointed by the reaction of her husband. I had expected him to find a way to de-escalate the matter, to prevent it from becoming a full-blown crisis.

When he sent me his statement and reaction, I told him exactly how I felt. If my wife were in such a situation, I would do everything possible to resolve the issue privately, to manage it in a way that does not cause further division.

It is even more surprising because her husband has been friends with the Senate President long before he married Natasha. This could have been settled without this level of unnecessary public drama.

Conclusion: The Senate Must Stand Firm

The Senate must not bow to emotional blackmail or social media outrage fueled by half-truths. Nigeria’s democracy thrives when its institutions are strong, disciplined, and governed by rules—not when they are manipulated to serve personal or partisan interests.

We must ensure that the principles of accountability, order, and respect remain the guiding forces of our legislative process. This is not about silencing anyone; it is about ensuring that the Senate remains a place of reasoned debate, not theatrical disruptions.

Senator (Prince) Ned Munir Nwoko
Senator, Delta North

By Ebere Nwafor

In a significant development for Nigeria’s ongoing battle against crude oil theft, a civil society group, Organisations for Human and Peoples Rights Protection (OHPRPH), has expressed strong support for the recent appointment of Senator Ned Nwoko as Chairman of the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft.

In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala, and the Organization’s Publicity Secretary, Chief Mrs. Rosemary Ishioma Oshilim, the group underscored the urgency of addressing crude oil theft, which has severely impacted Nigeria’s economy and caused extensive environmental damage.

“Senator Nwoko’s appointment comes at a critical time when the nation is grappling with the devastating consequences of oil theft. This criminal activity not only depletes the country’s resources but also affects the livelihoods of many Nigerians,” the group said in the statement.

Kegbala lauded Nwoko’s distinguished record as a dedicated public servant and his longstanding commitment to resolving national issues.

“His vast experience and dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people make him the ideal candidate to chair this committee.

“We believe that under his leadership, the committee will develop effective strategies to curb oil theft while promoting transparency and accountability in the oil sector,” the statement added.

Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala emphasized the importance of establishing strong frameworks that could prevent oil theft and ensure that Nigeria’s resources are managed for the benefit of all its citizens.

“We urge Senator Nwoko to work closely with all relevant stakeholders, including local communities, to devise sustainable solutions that address the root causes of crude oil theft,” Kagbala said.

As a prominent advocate for human rights and environmental protection in Nigeria, the group viewed Nwoko’s appointment as a positive step going forward.

The organization is optimistic that the committee will diligently work to restore integrity to Nigeria’s oil industry while safeguarding the environment for future generations.

As the nation closely watches developments, Senator Nwoko’s appointment as Chairman of the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft is seen as a promising move in the fight against corruption and resource mismanagement in Nigeria.

Chairman, Board of Management of FMC, Asaba, Dr Mary Alile-Idele says

***FMC provides top notch healthcare services

*** they are able to identify if staff have moved out of the system

Chairman, Board of Management of the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Dr Mary Alile-Idele, has commended the Chief Medical Director of the centre, Doctor Victor Osiatuma along with his team for the medical innovations, infrastructural projects, and efficient operational system at the centre.

Doctor Alile-Idele also called for more funding by the federal government to complete several ongoing projects in the next two years.

Chairman, Board of Management of the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Dr Mary Alile-Idele, has encouraged all government institutions across the country to emulate the monthly biometric capturing of staff at the centre , to detect cases of staff receiving salary after traveling overseas for better welfare packages.

She stated this in Asaba while speaking to newsmen shortly after taking a tour on facilities and operations at the centre weeks after her appointment by President Bola Tinubu.

Doctor Alile-Idele who observed that there was no shortage of medical and health personnel at the Federal Medical Centre Asaba over jakpa syndrome, hinted that there is replacement for noticeable  manpower vacuum.

“The jakpa syndrome has not really affected FMC Asaba much. One of the things they have been able to do here as an organization, is that within a month, they are able to identify if staff have moved out of the system, so that they can be replaced. I have seen organisation where people have jakpared two years, and they are still on salary. It’s something that I can not even understand how that is possible.”

“But without mentioning names, I have heard some horrible stories of somebody living in England, and still collecting salary in Nigeria for the next two years. Such a thing should not even be encouraged”

“In FMC Asaba, that is even one of the things we looked at, and I was in the administration department, and I saw that they have a system in place that all staff in this organization do biometrics on a monthly basis. So, if you are not available to do your biometrics; oh well, we take it that you have moved out. So, you didn’t do biometrics the first month, second month and third month, and we can’t find you, then why should we pay you. “, Dr Alile-Idele warned.

She restated commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu to the actualization of the renewed hope agenda in all sectors.

She said Federal Medical Centre Asaba was well equipped with state of the art medical facilities and experienced personnel to provide top notch healthcare to residents of the state and neighbouring states.

While commending the Chief Medical Director of the centre, Doctor Victor Osiatuma along with his team for the medical innovations, infrastructural projects, and efficient operational system at the centre, Doctor Alile-Idele called for more funding by the federal government to complete several ongoing projects in the next two years.

She said,”We must understand that the renewed hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu cuts across healthcare as well, and like the saying goes, health is wealth. ”

”I have just been on a tour round some facilities, interacting with some of the staff on ground, looking at the patients care, and I really want to personally applaud the management staff of this centre, doctors, the nurses , up to the junior staff in this place. They provide top notch healthcare here. This afternoon, I just visited the neonatal and maternity ward: fantastic . They have the equipment, they have the manpower. My vision and my dream for this centre is to be at the top front of all the medical centres in this country.”

By Daniel Dafe

The Senator representing Delta North in the Senate, Senator Ned Nwoko, on Monday visited the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.

He was accompanied by his wife, Regina Daniels-Nwoko.

In a post on X, Monday, titled ‘Driving Growth in Nigeria’s Creative & Cultural Sector’, he wrote: “Today, my wife, Regina Daniels, and I had an insightful meeting with the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.”

Nwoko added that their “discussion focused on fostering collaboration to expand Nigeria’s creative industry, promote our cultural heritage, and create sustainable opportunities for young talents.”

He continued: “As a creative force herself, Regina is deeply invested in the growth of the entertainment and arts sector. Together, we are committed to supporting initiatives that empower local creatives, attract investment, and position Nigeria as a global leader in culture and tourism.”

“We look forward to working closely with the ministry to turn these ideas into impactful action. The future is bright for Nigeria’s creative economy!,” he concluded.

By Julius Oweh

Senator Ned Nwoko is scout ready to end the malaria scourge in Africa.

Towards this goal ,the Prince Ned Nwoko Foundation within week in Abuja hosted a high level malaria vaccine workshop with the theme ‘Building and Strengthening Sustainable Malaria

Manufacturing Ecosystem in Nigeria’.

These facts were disclosed through the verified X handle of the senator.

According him ,the workshop attracted key stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers and industry leaders with the noble aim of producing homegrown vaccine.

The senator also explained his passion towards the eradication of malaria in Africa.

Listen to Him:’For years. I have invested heavily in this cause, personally donating over $20 million to various universities across Africa for malaria vaccine research and pharmaceutical manufacturing. But there’s only so much one individual can do. True and lasting change requires collective action – government support, private sector investment and international collaboration.’

The senator also disclosed that he has sponsored a bill in the Senate titled Malaria Eradication Agency Bill (SB.172).

Some of the provisions of the bill are establishing a dedicated agency to drive research, vaccine production, funding, and large scale eradication programs.

He also said that the public hearing of the bill is slated for June 2025.

He ended the tweet on his X handle with hope.

Tweeted Ned Nwoko :’ Malaria is a solvable problem. If malaria were a western disease, we all know the global response would have been swifter, just as we saw with COVID-19 – where vaccines were developed, mass produced, and distributed within months. But malaria is our problem, and it is up to us to find a sustainable solution.’