Rivers

Diaspora Ogoni Group Clamours For Educational Institutions’ Rehabilitation

Published

2 years ago

August 12, 2024

A United States of America (USA)-based group, “Gbaaloo Nyo-Khana”, has called on the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to embark on urgent rehabilitation of educational institutions within Khana Community in Rivers State.
According to a communique over the weekend, the group, made up of USA based indigenes of the community, lamented that the primary and tertiary schools in the community, Taabaa Hospital in Nyo-Khana, have been in a state of disrepair for a long time.
They noted that the deplorable condition of these educational and health care institutions are unacceptable and detrimental to the future of the youth in rhe community, and Rivers astate at large.
The communique, signed by the President, Gbaaloo Nyo-Khana Socio-Cultural Community Group, USA, Comrade Lebari Legah Nzidee; Secretary, Comrade Samuel L. Nwibana; and Public Relations Officer, Barineka Akponi, further urged the Governor to direct the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) to immediately assess and carry out necessary repairs and renovations in the schools, stressing that “education of children is a priority, and urgent action is needed to restore these institutions to standard”.
On the need for government to site projects in the community, the communique stated that “To curb the rising tide of restiveness and crime among the youth in Nyo-Khana, we strongly advocate for the siting of government projects within our community.
“Such projects will provide employment opportunities, engage our youth in meaningful activities, and help reduce crime rates.
“It is essential that our youth are given opportunities to contribute positively to society and build a better future for themselves and our community”.
Primarily, the group noted also that Nyo-Khana Community has been marginalised and overlooked in the appointment of key government positions in Rivers State.
In furtherance to appeal for peace and unity among political office holders, they called on all politicians and stakeholders in Rivers State, irrespective of party affiliations, to embrace oneness, for the overall happiness of the Nyo-Khana Community, and Rivers State in general.
“Political differences should not hinder the progress and well-being of our people. We urge everyone to work together harmoniously for the greater good of Nyo-Khana and Rivers State.
“As Gbaaloo Nyo-Khana USA, we are deeply committed to the development and progress of our homeland Nyo-Khana, Ogoni, and Rivers State as a whole.
“We pledge our full support to any initiative that will uplift Nyo-Khana and ensure its prosperity, Ogoni, amd Rives State.
“We have no other state to call home, but Rivers State, and we remain steadfast in our desire to see our community thrive within it”, the communique stated.
The group called on the Federal Government to initiate the process of creating a Local Government Area for Nyo-Khana Community, expressing the belief that the Nyo-Khana Community has grown significantly in population and influence, thus making it deserving of its own Local Government Area.
While advocating for a Local Government Area for the community, the document noted that “We hereby call on the Rivers State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Joseph Fubara, to initiate the process of creating a local government area for Nyo-Khana.
They decried the non-inclusion in government functions over the years, noting that the community has been marginalised and overlooked in the appointment of key government officials.
“The Gbaaloo Nyo-Khana, USA, during its recently concluded meeting, has unanimously elected new executives to lead our association forward.
In addition to the election of these officials, several important resolutions were reached concerning the well-being and development of the community.
“We strongly appeal to Governor Siminalayi Joseph Fubara to recognise and appoint qualified sons and daughters from Nyo-Khana to positions of responsibility within the state government. This recognition is not only overdue, but also essential for fostering a sense of belonging and participation among our people.

By: Nkpemenyie Mcdominic, Lagos

Rivers

Microbiologists Inaugurates New Exco, Chart New Course In Dev

Published

2 days ago

February 23, 2026

The Tide

The Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM) has strengthened its regional footprint with the inauguration of the executive members of its South-South Zonal Chapter, tasking them with championing the pivotal role of microbiologists in national development.

At a virtual inaugural meeting held recently, the National President of NSM, Prof. S. A. Ado, formally ushered in the new leadership team, describing the chapter’s take-off as both strategic and long overdue for a region of immense ecological and economic importance.

The newly appointed executives are Prof. Nedie P. Akani, who is the Zonal Coordinator (Rivers State University); Dr. Anwuli U. Osadebe, Zonal Secretary (University of Port Harcourt); Dr. Tonye Sampson, Treasurer/Financial Secretary (Rivers State University); and Prof. Elijah Ohimain, Public Relations Officer (Niger Delta University, Amassoma, Bayelsa State).

In his welcome remarks, Ado congratulated the team and pledged the full backing of the National Executive Council (NEC), commending the swift coordination that culminated in the chapter’s inauguration.

He urged the executives to prioritise unity and professional mobilisation across the vast South-South region, noting that effective organisation would be critical to achieving impact.

Echoing this position, the National Secretary, Prof. Sunday Awe, and the National Business Manager, Prof. C. J. Ogugbue, reaffirmed NEC’s support and underscored the weight of responsibility before the new zonal leadership.

They acknowledged the geographic spread and diversity of the zone, but expressed confidence in the capacity of the Coordinator to provide purposeful leadership.

Ogugbue, in particular, highlighted the multidisciplinary scope of microbiology and its growing relevance in pollution control, environmental remediation, biodiversity conservation, agricultural productivity, coastal ecosystem protection and the development of a sustainable blue economy.

He stressed that the South-South Chapter must serve as a hub of scientific leadership, given the region’s environmental sensitivities and economic assets.

In her inaugural address, the Zonal Coordinator, Prof. Nedie Patience Akani, described the formal launch of the chapter as “a dream come true” for microbiologists in the region who had long anticipated a structured platform for collaboration and professional advancement.

Akani said the new executive was fully aware of its mandate and committed to repositioning microbiology as a driver of innovation and problem-solving in the South-South.

According to her, the Chapter will focus on mobilising practitioners to register with the society and participate actively in its programmes, ensuring timely payment of dues, organising annual symposia and workshops, appointing state representatives, and maintaining regular reporting to the NEC.

She emphasised that beyond administrative coordination, the executive would work to amplify the voice of microbiologists in addressing regional challenges, particularly in environmental management and sustainable development.

“We are committed to serving the society and advancing microbiology in the South-South zone,” she said, and expressed appreciation to the national leadership for its trust and for enabling the inauguration to hold virtually.

With the new executive now in place, stakeholders say the South-South Zonal Chapter is poised to galvanise professionals across the region and deepen the impact of microbiological research and practice in shaping public health, environmental sustainability and economic resilience.

Rivers

IAUE VC Warns Against High Price In Textbook Sales

Published

2 days ago

February 23, 2026

The Tide

The Vice Chancellor (VC) of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Prof Okechuku Onuchuku, has directed students to report any lecturer who sells textbooks above ?5,000 to the institution’s Quality Assurance Department.

This, he said, is part of decisive steps to protect students from exploitation and uphold ethical standards on campus.

Onuchuku made made this known following students’ growing lamentation over the high cost of textbooks in the Campus recently.

The VC warned that compelling students to purchase textbooks at inflated prices is not the policy of the university and will not be condoned under any circumstance.

He stressed that while academic authorship is encouraged, monetising compulsory materials beyond the approved ?5,000 benchmark undermines access to education.

According to him, any lecturer found violating the directive should be promptly reported for investigation and appropriate sanctions.

He assured students that management remains committed to creating a fair academic environment where learning is not hindered by undue financial pressure.

The IAUE helmsman described the directive as part of a broader reform agenda aimed at sanitizing the academic system and strengthening institutional accountability.

He reiterated that the Quality Assurance Department has been empowered to handle such complaints with confidentiality and diligence.

Professor Onuchuku has consistently championed discipline, transparency and integrity since assuming leadership of the university.

His administration has repeatedly cautioned staff against academic fraud, sharp practices and conduct capable of tarnishing the institution’s image.

Under his stewardship, the university secured approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to mount fourteen new undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, significantly expanding its academic frontiers and reinforcing its relevance in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

In a bid to promote academic excellence, the Vice Chancellor also introduced incentives targeted at high-performing students, including free internet access for those with a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 and above.

The initiative, according to a statement from the Public Relations Unit of the university, is designed to strengthen research culture and reward diligence.

By: King Onunwor

Rivers

Hon Worlu Expresses Concern Over Tragic Incidents In PHALGA … Assures On Safety, Security

Published

2 days ago

February 23, 2026

The Tide

The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Gift Worlu, has expressed deep concern over the unfortunate incidents that led to the loss of lives in parts of the LGA.

A statement the Chairman personally signed, weekend, said the incidents occurred in Rumuokpoku, Rumuola and at the Rumuokwurusi Oil Mill Market, causing apprehension among residents.

The OBALGA Council boss described the development as regrettable and assured residents that security agencies are fully on top of the situation.

He disclosed that some arrests have already been made in connection with the incidents, with efforts ongoing to ensure that the suspects are prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Chairman urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that there is no cause for panic.

He called for sustained collaboration between security agencies and community leaders to curb the negative trend and restore normalcy in the affected areas.

Dr. Worlu commended security operatives and community stakeholders for their swift response and commitment to maintaining peace and order.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the local government to safeguarding lives and property across the LGA.

The Chairman encouraged residents of Obio/Akpor to continue with their lawful businesses without fear, and assured that the government will continue to take all necessary measures to strengthen security and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to families who lost their loved ones in the unfortunate events, and also prayed for the repose of the departed souls and comfort for the bereaved families during this difficult period.

By: King Onunwor