Rivers
NYCOP Commends Tinubu Over HYPREP Project Coordinator’s Reappointment
The National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP), under the leadership of Comrade Nwibani Raymond Marcus, has commended President Bola Tinubu for the reappointment of Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey as the Project Coordinator of Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).
Comrade Marcus, who made the commendation in a statement made available to The Tide, yesterday, in Port Harcourt, said he was overwhelmed by the reappointment.
He said, “Just like it’s been constantly said, that a ‘closed mouth is a closed destiny’, reality has dawned on us that the phrase was actually correct as all Ogonis were let loose, airing their displeasure over the manner in which almost all Project Coordinators are hired and fired without recourse to the difficult task ahead.
“Howbeit, that’s past and we’ve put it behind us, looking forward to see a brighter, united and purpose driven Ogonis.
“Sequel to the above, we congratulate you, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, on your reappointment. Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and it is a testament to your great leadership skills and commitment to excellence.
“Your ability to coordinate and manage tasks as HYPREP Project Coordinator efficiently has made a significant impact, and we are thrilled to have you continue in this role.
“Your attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and positive attitude makes you a valuable asset to all Ogonis, and we look forward to seeing all the great things you will accomplish in your reappointed position.
“We want to use this medium to thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has not let Ogonis down when we needed him the most.
“It is with a deep sense of responsibility and a heart full of gratitude, that NYCOP expresses profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for the reappointment of our dear son.
“There is no uncertainty within us that your Presidential assent to this course will propel the PC to reach the set target for this agency.
“The reappointment is greater visibility and confidence to Pro Zabbey to do more.
“Just like they said, ‘to whom much is given, much is expected’.
NYCOP urged Prof. Zabbey to “tighten all loopholes” capable of hampering his progress in office, “if you win, Ogonis win”.
Kiadum Edookor
Rivers
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Rivers
PR Professionals Must Rebuild Public Trust – Eze Gbakagbaka

The Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Nyerisi Eli Woji (Eze Woji XII), His Majesty, King Prof. Leslie Nyebuchi Eke, Eze Gbakagbaka, has called on communication professionals to rise above routine narratives and become vanguards in rebuilding public trust in the face of Nigeria’s challenging economic realities.
The revered monarch made the charge while delivering the Chairman’s Opening Remarks at the 2025 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Rivers State Chapter, held in Port Harcourt, with the theme: “Refocusing Stakeholders’ Engagement and Public Trust in a Challenging Economy.”
The event, which drew leading figures in public communication, governance, and industry, witnessed presentations, keynote addresses and robust deliberations aimed at repositioning the PR profession to respond to national realities with innovation and integrity.
In his remarks, HM Eke commended the Rivers State Chapter of NIPR, led by Rev. Francis Asuk, for what he called its unwavering commitment to professionalism, knowledge-sharing, and continuous dialogue on issues affecting the nation’s social and institutional fabric.
He noted that the theme of the conference could not have been more appropriate, considering the current national climate where public confidence in institutions is at an all-time low, and economic uncertainties have strained relationships between stakeholders and the state.
“We are living in a season when trust has become a scarce commodity. Citizens are asking tough questions, and institutions are struggling to maintain credibility. In such a time, the role of the Public Relations professional becomes even more crucial”, he said.
The Eze Gbakagbaka, who is the Chairman, Supreme Forum of Ikwerre Government Recognized Traditional Rulers, noted that Public Relations practitioners must understand their strategic role as mediators between the people and the truth, adding that the tools of their trade: honest communication, transparency, and empathy, must be wielded with renewed purpose and patriotism.
“You are the bridge between the people and the truth; between perception and reality. Your work determines whether society believes, doubts, or hopes again. Let this conference remind us that trust is not demanded, it is earned”, he urged.
He emphasized that the restoration of trust in both public and private sectors requires consistent, deliberate, and sincere stakeholder engagement.
According to him, when communication is driven by integrity, not propaganda, society will gradually find its voice and confidence once again.
“With transparent communication and genuine engagement, even in a difficult economy, confidence can be restored”, the monarch said, urging the delegates to see themselves not just as professionals, but as nation-builders with a moral obligation to influence public perception positively.
The Evo apex King, who is also a Fellow of the Institute, called on participants to approach the discussions with open minds and patriotic intent, stressing that every contribution must be geared towards rebuilding national cohesion and institutional trust.
“With a deep sense of honour and responsibility”, he declared, “I, His Majesty, King Leslie Nyebuchi Eke, JP, Eze Gbakagbaka, Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Nyerisi Eli Woji (Eze Woji XII) and Chairman, Supreme Forum of Ikwerre Government Recognized Traditional Rulers, formally declare open the 2025 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Rivers State Chapter to the glory of God and for the good of our society.”
At a post conference courtesy call at the instance of the Eze Gbakagbaka, the President of the Association, Dr. Ike Neliaku, described the Kung as an astute Fellow who is determined to add colour to the Institute regardless of any odds.
Also, the Council Member, Pastor Palunius Nsirim, who corroborated the President’s position, noted that His Majesty’s recognition was something valid given his contributions to the growth of the association.
“We value your presence with us. We will continue to benefit from your wise counsel. We won’t take your support for granted”, he said.
Climax of the visit was the decoration of Dr. Neliaku by the Evo apex King as a Honorary citizen of the Kingdom.
By: King Onunwor