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  • Julius Berger, a Most Influential Corporate Voice – NIPR

    Julius Berger, a Most Influential Corporate Voice – NIPR

    By Omakpo Lucy

    Leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC has been recognised as a Most Influential Corporate Voice by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR. The credit came at the National Spokespersons Awards 2025 which wrapped up the just ended 2nd Nigeria Spokespersons Summit jointly organised by the Institute and the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, held in Abuja, Wednesday.

    According to the Chairman of the Awards Planning Committee, Mr. Segun McMedal who announced the awards, Julius Berger joined two other corporate organisations to clinch the worthy recognition as influential corporate voices in the 2024/25 year under review.

    He listed the adjudication criteria to include: ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively, ensuring messages are easily understood, possession of skill in tailoring communication to different media channels while maintaining message integrity, frequency and quality of media engagements, including interviews, press conferences, press releases, and op-eds and ability to craft compelling narratives that effectively communicate the organization’s objectives and achievements.

    Besides, the recognition, he added, was also based on proficiency in leveraging emerging communication channels, tools, and technologies to enhance engagement and outreach as well as NIPR’s evaluation of how effectively the organisations PR objectives were met, measuring the overall success and influence of communication efforts.

    Thus, being media savvy and the organisation’s visibility in the media, story telling and framing ability, the use of new technologies and the outcome and impact of the effort among others helped in determining the influence of our corporate voices of choice, he said.

    In a related development, Julius Berger’s Media Relations Manager, Emmanuel Isibor won NIPR’s Outstanding Spokesperson, Crisis Management, (Private Sector) Award at the event. Citing the rise and positive visibility of Julius Berger throughout 2024 till date in the media inspite of the challenges in the sector and the general public as well as regularity of the organisation’s media reports across the print, broadcast and online platforms, McMedal said, the Award was very deserving even as he urged all winners to continue to up their professionalism in the discharge of their duties as worthy ambassadors of the Institute.

    In his short remarks ahead the Awards ceremony, President of the Institute, Dr. Ike Neliaku, fnipr, said,  the summit leads to the awards. This is part of that whole process of remembering spokesperson so that you can help a voice. You have a platform to yourself. Not only that you come together to interact to learn to understand the new things going on in the industry. It is also for you to be able to showcase yourselves through crisis.

    Declaring the event open on the first Day of the Summit, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the NIPR as a compelling imprimatur of professionalism in Nigeria’s public relations practice.

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, emphasised the urgent need for ethical leadership communication to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, saying, “after 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, Nigeria has reached a point where our communication of leadership and policy must reflect the maturity of our democratic process.”

    He warned that the spread of misinformation undermines democratic values, adding that, public relations should not be viewed as spin or propaganda but as a vehicle for truth. When communication is rooted in integrity, citizens are empowered to make informed decisions and hold leaders accountable.

    The Minister of Information, Alh Mohammed Idris Malagi, fnipr, his predecessor, Alh. Lai Mohammed, CON, fnipr, former Ogun State Governor, Chief Segun Osoba, CFR, CON; former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Chief Edem Duke, fnipr; and the Chairman, House Committe

    Photo caption

    L-R: Hon. Joshua Audu Gana; NIPR Spokesperson of the year, Olufemi Soneye of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd; President and Chairmanof the Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku and his wife with a winner at the National Spokesperson Awards 2025 organised by the Institute, held in Abuja, recently

  • Why APC, Tinubu Should Not Jettison Nasarawa’s Traditional Political Architecture

    Why APC, Tinubu Should Not Jettison Nasarawa’s Traditional Political Architecture

    By Abel Zwànke, Lafia 

    As the 2027 general elections approach, the political atmosphere in Nasarawa State is gradually heating up, with permutations already flying across the political landscape. At the center of discussions is the growing national influence of certain political figures who have begun positioning themselves for the governorship ticket. However, several political observers, stakeholders, and analysts argue that any move to impose candidates from outside the state’s grassroots dynamics could destabilize the political balance and may not necessarily align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s long-term political strategy.

    Some aspirants are widely seen as enjoying support from the national level, riding on the wave of political inclusion and party expansion championed by the Tinubu administration. While this national spotlight may serve as a plus, it does not automatically translate into grassroots support back home in Nasarawa State.

    There’s a growing sentiment among stakeholders that President Tinubu must resist the temptation to upend Nasarawa’s internal political balance by influencing candidate emergence through the Villa. The whispers of imposition raise not just questions about the suitability of such candidates, but also about the party’s cohesion and sustainability in the state.

    Though some aspirants possess national presence, repeatedly highlighting them gives undue publicity that could sway public perception—perception that may not reflect sentiments on the ground. The political engine of Nasarawa is built on traditional alliances, grassroots mobilization, and internal consultations, not on media presence or external endorsements.

    Analysts are of the view that the APC at the national level must recognize that Nasarawa is not a state where electoral success can be dictated from Abuja. Over the years, the political tradition of Nasarawa has revolved around a tripod of fairness, grassroots consensus, and respect for the rotation principle. The 2027 election presents a critical test of this unwritten understanding.

    A Note of Caution to the Villa

    Political observers have cautioned that as President Tinubu cements his legacy across the country ahead of 2027, Nasarawa stands as a litmus test. “He must resist pressure from close allies or political associates who seek to anoint preferred candidates without consultations. Leadership is not about favouritism; it is about safeguarding the party’s future.”

    “The warning signs are already there. Imposing a candidate—especially one with more visibility nationally than locally—risks alienating the APC base in Nasarawa.” “It could create a vacuum that opposition parties will exploit, especially in a state known for swinging when the ruling party is divided.”

    A political scientist from the Federal University of Lafia stressed that “It is not enough to have a candidate that can speak on television or navigate the halls of the National Assembly.” “The 2027 battle will be fought on the streets of Nasarawa, in polling units and markets, in palaces and places of worship. Only someone who understands this terrain can lead successfully.”

    “President Tinubu must encourage free, fair, and credible primaries within the APC in Nasarawa State. The will of the people—expressed through the party structure—must be respected.” “Any act of imposition may be seen not just as an affront to the party but a personal disregard for the state’s political wisdom.”

    However, there is a growing conversation of equity and regional fairness. Political observers argue that in the spirit of justice and rotation, 2027 should be the turn of Nasarawa West. This is no longer just a zoning demand—it is a call for strategic electoral sense.

    With the largest voter population, highest polling strength, and robust political intelligence, Nasarawa West deserves the opportunity to produce the next governor. Any attempt to bypass this reality may lead to voter apathy or direct protest votes in the general election, which could cost the APC dearly.

    The principle of natural justice transcends politics; it speaks to the conscience of the people. Nasarawa West Senatorial District had produced a candidate once in the person of a former governor who served for 8 years and handed over power to Nasarawa South, which ruled for another 12 years through two successive administrations. The North is currently serving its term.

    The Nasarawa West Senatorial District, home to key local governments such as Keffi, Karu, Kokona, Nasarawa, and Toto, has been pivotal in campaign mobilizations during past elections. Yet, the region has waited patiently for its turn to govern the state again after over two decades. Denying this region another opportunity, despite its overwhelming numerical strength, would be politically suicidal.

    Strategic voting patterns show that Nasarawa West not only delivers votes but also influences adjacent zones. From polling unit coordination to ward-level structure, the district possesses a formidable political base that no serious party can afford to take for granted.

    In the same development, political analysts have emphasized why the APC must critically examine the credentials of all aspirants before making any decisions. There is a strong plea by party chieftains and stakeholders that aspirants must emerge through a transparent and inclusive process that reflects local reality, not the dictates of the Villa.

    Among those being considered, emphasis is being placed on credibility, grassroots engagement, leadership experience, and broad acceptability across ethnic and religious divides. These are the pillars upon which electoral victory rests in Nasarawa State.

    In contrast, technocratic brilliance without street-level connection or prior electoral participation is viewed by stakeholders as risky at a time when the state’s political fabric is highly dynamic and competitive.

    According to pundits, “The case is clear: if Governor Abdullahi Sule wants to maintain a strong APC base in Nasarawa, the 2027 ticket must reflect regional justice, electoral intelligence, and grassroots acceptability.” It must not be influenced by Abuja lobbyists or national appointees with limited local roots.

    Nasarawa deserves a governor who represents its true political DNA—electable, accessible, experienced and tested. That is the only path that guarantees continued relevance and victory for the APC in the state come 2027.

  • Tragedy as final year student slumps, dies at A’Ibom Poly

    Tragedy as final year student slumps, dies at A’Ibom Poly

    By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo 

    Tragedy has engulfed  Akwa Ibom state Polytechnic community following  the sudden death  of a final year Higher National  Diploma (HND) student of the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic Ikot Osurua.

    It was gathered that the deceased simply identified as John of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies left the students’ lodge, off campus for Karate training but fainted immediately he he entered the ring.

    He was rushed to a private hospital in Ikot Ekpene where he was rejected and referred to General Hospital ,Ikot Ekpene. 

    An eyewitness and president of Journalism And Media Studies Students Association (JAMSSA) Mr Nsoefen Akpan  said the Doctor at General Hospital Ikot Ekpene after close examination pronounced the deceased dead on arrival at the hospital. 

    Akpan said students rushed to the  hospital as they refused to believe the doctors report, took the deceased to church for prayers but to no avail . 

    ” In the church after he was  rejected , another spiritualist offered to resuscitate the victim but couldn’t  succeed claiming that the deceased has been admitted already in the spirit world

    ” At this point, we returned the corpse to the mortuary but students were still waiting to see if the colleague was dead.” He said.

    Akpan said the Head of Department Dr Inemesit Umoren came to the hospital and address students before they left the hospital while the corpse was deposited in the mortuary as parents were contacted . 

    “This is a young man that wrote exams last Thursday without any sign of sickness. 

    “The karate training is what he does every Saturday morning . He is the leader in the training. It surprised all of us how he died suddenly.” He said.

  • Over 40 persons killed in fresh Plateau attacks  

    Over 40 persons killed in fresh Plateau attacks  

    Several persons injured  , over 30 homes razed 

    By Israel Adamu, Jos 

    Over 40   people have been confirmed dead and many others injured following a brutal attack on Zike Kimakpa community  in Kwall District of Irigwe Chiefdom, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.

    The incident, which occurred late Sunday night, left the affected community  in grief and devastation also left several persons injured .

    It was also gathered that some homes were razed down by the gunmen .

    Sources from the community told our correspondent that Gunmen attacked the community and started shooting sporadically on Sunday night .

    Danjuma Dickson Auta, the Secretary General of the Irigwe Development Association (IDA), who confirmed the attack in a telephone interview with Newsmen  said over 40   bodies had so far been recovered and still counting.

    According to him, the scale of the violence suggests a well-planned and coordinated assault on the community.

    Meanwhile  the Plateau state Government has condemned in strong terms  another unprovoked attack by gunmen on Zike  Kimakpa community  of Kwall district Miango, Bassa local government council of the state . 

    The commissioner of information and communication Hon Joyce Ramnap, who spoke to our correspondent on phone  said the attack is one too many and these series of attacks pose an existential threat to the lives and livelihoods of the peace-loving people of the state . 

    It is sad that in  less than two weeks after our people were killed in Bokkos local government , this sad incident is reoccurring in another community  in Bassa local government. 

    She described the  attack as another attempt to puncture the peace that has gradually returned to the State.

    She maintained that the attacks are provocative, but  called on the peaceful people of the state particularly in the attacked community to remain calm and equally vigilant . 

    The Commissioner emphasised that the Mutfwang administration is determined to deal decisively with anybody or groups found culpable in attacking innocent persons in the state. 

    She advise against reprisals and urged security operatives to go after the perpetrators of this dastardly acts  .

  • Julius Berger wins Best Construction and Infrastructure Company of the Decade

    Julius Berger wins Best Construction and Infrastructure Company of the Decade

    Leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Thursday night in Lagos, emerged the Best Construction and Infrastructure Company of the Decade. At an award ceremony organised by West Africa Innovation Awards designed to promote excellence, creativity and innovation among brands and brands professionals in the West African subregion, the company came tops ahead of two others from the sector.

    According to the Chairman of the Award Organising Committee, Cammil Chineme, Julius Berger is worth celebrating for its core values, professionalism and solid testimony of its doggedness in pursuing its endeavours.

    We salute your professional prowess; we salute your courage  and uncommon professionalism causing you to move from one conquest to another and for winning this Diamond Award for Customer Service Excellence, the Chairman said, adding that the West Africa Innovation Awards is making a name in identifying real industry leaders in West Africa and appreciating them accordingly.

    Speaking after receiving the Award on behalf of Julius Berger, the Director, Administration, Alh. Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita appreciated the organisers for the prize even as he seized the opportunity to tell a bit of the Julius Berger success story in Nigeria amidst applause from the audience.

    According to Kaita, Julius Berger has been in Nigeria for more than 50 years. We built the first bridge in Lagos in 1965. And that bridge, Eko Bridge, still stands solidly till today, despite all the vehicular and traffic pressure on it. We began the unique cold recycling tecnology in building roads for Nigeria. It saves about 90% of resources that go into construction works. That technology has been so successful that it is now being studied as a course in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

    He did not mince words in letting the audience in on the fact that contrary to what had been sold to the Nigerian public in the past, Julius Berger International is a subsidiary of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC; saying emphatically that, Julius Berger International is a branch of Julius Berger Nigeria.

    Raising up the Award plaque, Kaita dedicated it to all the staff of Julius Berger whose commitment continue to make  the company transform its challenges into tangible opportunities for the company, our operational communities and the country at large.

    The West Africa Innovation Awards 2025, as an annual event encourages professionals across different sectors and countries in the subregion to go above the limit and set new records of impactful achievements. The first edition took place in 2012, and has remained a yearly window of honours and awards ever since

  • Prosperity Cup 2025: LGA Finalists Emerge In Yenagoa and Ogbia

    Prosperity Cup 2025: LGA Finalists Emerge In Yenagoa and Ogbia

    Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa

    Local government finalists have emerged in Yenagoa and Ogbia Local Government Areas in Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament tagged the Prosperity Cup.

    Ogbia LGA defending champions, Movers FC of Otuasega will battle high scoring Citiboi FC to decide in the 2025 champions of Ogbia Local Government Area.

    In the first semi final match at the Imiringi venue, Movers FC humbled Federal University, Otuoke FC by three goals to one to qualify for the final, while Citiboi FC were so ruthless in overwhelming Ayalla FC five nil to advance to the LGA championship game.

    Pere Richard put Citiboi ahead on 21 minutes from a well coordinated offensive play to end the first stanza at one nil.

    Niwura Osuamkpa doubled the lead through a long range effort in the 75th minute, with Christopher Omoni adding the third 8 minutes later. The celebrations had barely died down when Prince Markson made it four on 84 minutes. Victor Christian completely dashed the hopes of the Okiki side with the fifth goal to ensure Citiboi ‘s passage into the Ogbia finals.

    It will be recalled that, Movers FC defeated Anyama FC 2-0 to lift the local government trophy, last year.

    In Yenagoa LGA, 2022 Prosperity Cup champions, Eternal Grace Ministry EGM FC eased out Afini FC by four goals to two in an entertaining encounter at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa. EGM came twice from behind to level the scores at 2-2 before ending the game 4-2.

    In the second semi final match, Bayelsa United Feeders were so merciless in their four one demolition of Creek Haven Allstars. Razor sharp forward, Tonyemite Owugah’s hattrick was the highlight of the game that had the Director General of the tournament, Mr.Ono Akpe and other stakeholders in attendance at the Samson Siasia Stadium.

    Forward Owugah recorded one of the fastest hattricks of the tournament within 18 minutes, scoring on the 10th, 19th and 28th minutes with Goodness Ayeke netting the fourth on 31 minutes while Creek Haven’s consolation goal came from Joel Okubomobowei on 82 minute.

    Bayelsa United Feeders will now face former champions, EGM FC in the Yenagoa Local government final of the tournament.

  • Hollywood Jitters over U.S.-China Tariff War

    By He Beiping

    During Spanish Prime Minister Petro Sánchez’s recent visit to China, the two countries signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding on film cooperation, pledging to expand practical collaboration in film festival participation, reciprocal screenings, co-productions, and professional exchanges, injecting new momentum into cultural connectivity and high-level bilateral relations.

    As the world’s second-largest film market, China remains a crucial destination for global investors and creators seeking to deepen their market presence. However, recent U.S. tariff overreach has prompted China’s National Film Administration to announce it will “moderately reduce the number of American films imported.” This development triggered immediate stock plunges for Hollywood giants Walt Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery. Many media have reported Hollywood jitters over potential exclusion from China’s massive cinema market.

    Washington’s tariff offensive has cast uncertainty over U.S. studios and filmmakers eyeing Chinese collaborations. As a vital component of service trade, the film industry reveals an asymmetric relationship: The U.S. maintains China’s largest service trade surplus. U.S. Commerce Department data shows American service exports to China ballooned from $5.63 billion in 2001 to $46.71 billion by 2023 – a 7.3-fold increase. China’s vast market continues to reward quality content, as evidenced by audience enthusiasm and box office validation.

    Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned of retaliatory measures against U.S. tech titans should transatlantic tariff negotiations collapse. Notably, technology services constitute a pillar of America’s service trade surplus with Europe.

    Both film and tech services represent cornerstone sectors of modern service industries where the U.S. has long held dominance. The coordinated warnings from China and the EU expose the self-defeating nature of Washington’s tariff adventurism – its reckless act of prioritizing immediate gains over long-term stability now jeopardizes America’s very service trade strongholds.

    In contrast, China’s commitment to high-standard openness continues creating opportunities. The Sino-Spanish film collaboration demonstrates China’s determination to keep its doors wide open, partnering with multilateralism advocates like Spain to uphold free trade and economic globalization. Through equitable cooperation and mutual benefit, such alliances promise to deliver higher-quality services and products that truly benefit global citizens.

    After all, the era of American unilateral dominance has irrevocably passed.

    (Written by He Beiping, a Chinese journalist based in Nigeria)

  • Borno bomb explosion kills 8, Injures 21 Says Govt Official

    Borno bomb explosion kills 8, Injures 21 Says Govt Official

    Gov Zulum sympathises with victims as Bomb Blast kills 8, Injures 21

    IDIBA GABRIEL, KADUNA

    At least eight people have been confirmed killed and 21 injured in a Borno bomb explosion that occured in Maiduguri.

    Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has already sympathised with 21 people injured by a bomb blast suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram insurgents along Maiduguri-Damboa highway on Saturday.

    Of the victims, 14 were severely injured, 7 had minor injuries and were receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri., according to statement by the Governor’s media aide Abdurraman Bundi.

    “The Governor, while sympathising with the injured, expressed grief and solidarity with families of the 8 people that lost their lives.

    “It is regrettable that it is happening at this time. Since last year or so, we have not witnessed an improvised explosive device [IED] attack. The road was closed for about one month, and I believe this is one of the reasons the insurgents had the luxury of planting an IED”, Zulum said.

    The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the security agencies and urged the military to beef up surveillance along the highway to prevent future occurrences.

    “I urge the Nigerian military and other security agencies to beef up surveillance along the road so that such incidents do not happen again,” Zulum stated.

    “The government of Borno State will continue to partner with the Nigerian military and with the federal government to curtail the menace of insurgency. I want to assure the people of Borno State that, Insha Allah, under my watch, we wouldn’t allow the security situation to deteriorate,”

    “Our administration will provide more support to the security agencies and we will strengthen the resilience of our youth volunteers fighting alongside the military.”

    Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum expressed confidence with the outcome of the meeting held with military chiefs on Thursday in Abuja.

    The Governor, responding to questions from news men in Maiduguri on Saturday after a sympathy visit to those injured from a bomb attack along Damboa road said, “Our discussion during the security council was not bad; we just raised an alarm that Boko Haram activities are resurging in Borno State, and the state government, the military, and other stakeholders need to work together to avert the looming situation.”

    He added “But most importantly, we have been to Abuja, met with the service chiefs and received assurances from them that they will do everything possible to control the situation. We are very happy with their response.”

  • PRO Wike Political Group Shifts Date Of Mega Rally In Yenagoa

    PRO Wike Political Group Shifts Date Of Mega Rally In Yenagoa

    Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa

    The Pro -Wike Mega Rally schedule to hold on Saturday, April 12, in Yenagoa has been shifted to Saturday April 26, 2025.

    Addressing newsmen in Yenagoa, the convener of the New Associates Group, Barr.George Turner said the change of date was became necessary due to the clash of events in the venue which according to him was to be used by Pro -Diri and Pro -Tambuwal supporters.

    He pointed out that, notable leaders and fathers of the Ijaw nation have reached out to the group to shift the date which the group oblized.

    However, the PDP South- South Zonal Secretary, said the New Associates is a grassroots political movement aimed at rallying support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the country.

    He further stated that, the New Associates strongly believe in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, stressing that the group would support him to succeed in administering the affairs of the country.

    According to him,”In the light of recent developments, you will recall that several Pro- Diri and Pro-
    Tambuwal supporters have issued public notices expressing their intentions to hold Solidarity rallies in support of their respective leaders, opting to do so on the same date and at the same venue we have chosen for our program.

    “We are inclined to allow them the right and space to hold their events as scheduled, creating an atmosphere that will enable the entire country to witness their
    capacities and acceptance among the Ijaw people in Bayelsa State.

    “As such, we will now hold our inauguration and mega rally on Saturday April 26, 2025, in Yenagoa.”

    Reacting to the People’s Democratic Party, Bayelsa State Chapter by the State Working Committee on his suspension as a party member, he dismissed the suspension as baseless and lacking merit, stating that the South -South Zone has overturned his suspension. He further said, Justice Ekpo of Federal High Court Abuja, also upheld his position as the authentic PDP South South Zonal Secretary, respectively.

    He also noted that, he has never been served with any court documents, adding that as a lawyer if served he will follow the due process of the law.

    He seized the medium to thanked people of Ijaw nation for their interest and enthusiasm to be part of this mass movement aimed at the liberating the state and empowerment of the people .

    The rally which was planned in support of the the FCT minister was also aimed at thanking President Bola Tinubu for appointing Bayelsa sons and daughters into various political offices in the country, was earlier opposed by the state government and the state high court during the week issued an ex parte order restraining the hosting of such rally in the state.

  • Bayelsa Deputy Gov. Expresses Commitment To Safety On Waterways

    Bayelsa Deputy Gov. Expresses Commitment To Safety On Waterways

    Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa

    The Bayelsa State Government has expressed commitment to intensify efforts to improve maritime safety along the inland waterways across the state.

    The Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo made the disclosure at a meeting with the Chairman and members of the State Steering Committee of the Maritime Safety Taskforce in Government House, Yenagoa.

    Senator Ewhrudjakpo, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr Doubara Atasi, at the weekend, noted that the State Government was deeply concerned with the frequent occurrence of boat mishaps in the state which have often resulted in fatalities.

    The Deputy Governor, who emphasized that the taskforce on the maritime sector was set up with a view to fully implementing maritime laws and regulations, called on boat drivers to obey the safety rules to prevent boat mishaps.

    He warned that those who flout the rules will be arrested, prosecuted and punished accordingly with extant laws to serve as a deterrent to others.

    Consequently, the Deputy Governor charged the taskforce to work closely with all relevant security agencies to effectively enforce maritime laws and regulations in the state

    According to Senator Ewhrudjakpo, Bayelsa was the first littoral state to create the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy shortly after the federal government did so, to fully harness the abundant resources in the marine environment of the state.

    His words: “As a Government, we are worried about the incessant boat mishaps on our waterways. You know that Bayelsa is the leading light among the littoral states because it is the first to create a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy after the Federal Government.

    “And so, we are now taking some measures to make our waterways safer. Yes, we know there are some inevitabilities. But we also believe some of the accidents are avoidable.

    “So, we want to reduce the appetite of those who don’t want to obey safety rules. They either obey the rules or face the wrath of the law. We are taking these measures to ensure that our people are safe when they travel.”

    The Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Faith Zibs-Godwin, Deputy Chief of Staff, Deputy Governor’s Office, Comrade Gowon Toruyouyei, the Permanent Secretary, Marine Ministry, Elder Olali Jonjon, and the State Chairman, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Comrade Ogoniba Ipigansi attended the meeting.

    Other members of the Steering Committee in attendance included, Captain J. Ayim-Odu of the Nigerian Navy, CSP Arusu Ufuomanefe representing Marine Police, Dr Omodu Happy Pere-ela, Head of Legal, Engr Kenisuomein Saiyou, Head, Technical Operations and Mr Omonigbalibo Bolou, NIMASA Enforcement Officer.