Opinion

Task Before Rivers Golden Jubilee Committee

Published

9 years ago

November 28, 2016

By virtue of Decree Number 4 of 1967, the Federal Military Government of Yakubu Gowon created a 12-state structure to replace the hitherto existing four regions. The creation of the 12 states was also contained in a national broadcast on 27th May 1967. Out of the 12 States six states were created from the north and another six from the south. Rivers was one of the states created with Port Harcourt as its headquarters. It is worthy of note that Rivers State was part of the defunct Eastern Region of Nigeria.

One thing is clear: the inclusion of Rivers in the 12 state structure did not happen on the platter of gold. Rivers was truly created out of the age-long demand by the founding fathers of the state involved in the Rivers State Movement. In other words, the creation of Rivers was not an act of benevolence.

In fact, writing on State Movement, Ben Naanen (2002) pages 339 to 350 in Ebiegberi Joe Alagoa and Abi Derefa~a in a book entitled: The Land and People of Rivers State: Eastern Niger Delta, explained that the struggle for ethnic hegemony in Nigeria referred to as ethnic nationalism has been linked to the formation of Pan-ethnic unions from the 1920s.

Professor Ben Naanen, concluded thus: “although, these ethnic movements were founded as cultural and welfare associations, they quickly assumed a political character when party politics emerged in Nigeria.

For instance, Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) founded in 1949 transformed to a political party in 1951 while the Egbe Omo Oduduwa established in 1945 constituted the nucleus of the Action Group and so was the case of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroon NCNC inaugurated in 1944 while Igbo Union in Lagos was at the same time the major source of support.

It is no exaggeration that this gradual growth of ethnic politics became a source of worry to minority groups including Rivers people and Calabar Ogoja Rivers State Movement.

This may not be unconnected with the springing up of the Ijaw dominated body called Rivers People’s League of 1941 whereas non-Ijaw groups notable among them were the Ogoni, Ekpeye, Ikwere- Etche and Abua groups sprang up within the same period.

It is on record that the first attempt at the creation of Rivers State came to limelight when the Rivers province was created in 1947 made up of Ahoada, Brass, Degema and Ogoni with Port Harcourt as headquarters. However, all this is history now.

Probably what is most important in the modem history of agitation for the creation of Rivers State was the collective effort of the founding fathers represented by the famous Rivers State memorandum.

It is common knowledge that the Rivers State memorandum was presented to the Head of State at the time, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, by the Rivers Leaders of Thought and was signed by S.N Dikibo, Chairman, Mr. E.N. Kobani, representing Ogoni Division, Dr I..J.M. Fiberesima representing Degema Division, R.P.G Okara Brass Division, Mr. G.B.C Otoka (Opobo Division) and N. Nwonodi for Ahoada and Port Harcourt Divisions.

Besides these signatories, other prominent names associated with the creation of the state were Chief D. Davies Manuel, Chief Harold Dappa Biriye, E.J A Oriji, W.O.Briggs who later defected to Calabar Ogoja and Rivers Movement and much later Captain Elechi Amadi joined before assisting the Nigerian Army to liberate Port Harcourt during the civil war.

It is also on record that on hearing of the new but strong romance between Rivers leaders of thought and the Head of State, the Governor of the defunct Eastern Region, Chukwu Emeka Odumegu Ojukwu, invited another set of leaders of the state movement on September 2, 1966 asking them to give up creation of Rivers and instead promised a province of Port Harcourt and urged them to support Biafra project.

It is for this reason many hold the view that among other factors, Rivers was created to polarize the struggle for Biafra and gained support of the old Rivers people. Be that as it may, Rivers has been created and will be 50 years on 27th May 2017.

Governor Nyesom Wike has set up the Rivers State Golden Jubilee Committee comprising about one hundred and fifty-one members while a renowned quantity surveyor and builder, Chief Ferdinard Alabraba, and legal luminary, O.C.J. Okocha are to serve as chairman and alternate chairman respectively.

The members who cut across all spheres of human endeavor, comprise distinguished Nigerians from within and outside the state who do business in the state.

Governor Wike, during the inauguration, stated categorically that the terms of reference include among other things to organise a month-long memorable celebration to mark the Golden Jubilee of the creation of Rivers State, to identify, seek support, collaborate with corporate organizations and individuals for a successful celebration and to determine categories of awards and also recommend persons from within and outside the state to be honored. This, no doubt, is a sensitive task that requires not only funds but wisdom and inclusiveness. raIl stakeholders, to achieve set objectives.

To this end, the task before the committee would be to identify and re-enact the first love of the founding fathers of the state which was to create and promote favourable identity of the Rivers man. To achieve this target, the committee must make conscious effort to present an accurate and updated information on the state. Such information should entail demographic details, occupation and culture of the people.

The quest to meet the manpower need of the state informed manpower development through technical and science education and further led to the establishment of the Rivers State College of Science and Technology which transformed to the premier university of science and technology in the country, the Rivers State University of Science and Technology. Better still, technical colleges and craft centres were accorded priority attention but this does not seem to be the case now.

It is worthy of note that strategic media outfits were put in place to engender favourable identity and they include the Rivers State Newspaper Corporation, publisher of The Tide Newspaper, Rivers State Broadcasting Corporation comprising Radio Rivers and RSTV.

Interestingly, the government of Commander Alfred Diete Spiff embraced the Rivers Readers Project under the leadership of late Professor Kay Williamson, Professor Emeritus E.J.Alagoa and Professor Erneritus Otonti Nduka to promote writing, teaching and learning in Rivers indigenous languages. The Committee should see the need to mark the celebration with launch of primers in indigenous Rivers languages as there cannot be culture without language.

At this juncture, it may be pertinent to ask the questions what is the state of key state institutions such as Rivers State Museum, Council for Arts and Culture, Library, indigenous crafts and trade centres, public laboratory that can evoke a sense of history?

This is where Governor Nyesom Wike must be commended for conceptualising the Rivers State Golden Jubilee Committee which, no doubt, for once would move the people of the state from party politics to a point of sober reflection and our common humanity and to enable Rivers people focus on the big picture.

As the state plans to organise a golden jubilee celebration in 2017, emphasis should not be on the mere celebration of it with a giant cake but the resolve by the founding fathers to accomplish their dreams and aspirations despite daunting challenges.

The Committee must ensure that parts of the state ceded to other states if any because of petrol politics are recommended to be brought back while the founding fathers, who have not been immortalized be named after road, streets, strategic buildings across the state. It is hoped that such a celebration will not be concentrated in Port Harcourt city alone, but all the 23 local government areas will host components while the grand finale takes place in the state capital.

The Rivers State Golden Jubilee Committee must bring to the front burner how to revive the culture of the Rivers man towards truth, justice, love, forgiveness, hard work against bloodletting and killings so prevalent in our society today.

In other words, preservation of cultural heritage should not be limited to physical properties such as piece of cloth, historical site and art alone.

The committee must know that to whom much is given much is expected.

Sika is Port Harcourt-based journalist and public affairs analyst.

Opinion

Curbing Youth Unemployment In Nigeria

Published

2 days ago

March 30, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “A nation that fails to empower its youth risks mortgaging its future.”

Youth, generally defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 35, represent a critical phase of human development—a transition from adolescence to adulthood marked by ambition, energy, and the pursuit of purpose. In Nigeria, this demographic constitutes a significant proportion of the population, making it one of the country’s greatest assets. However, this strength is increasingly undermined by a persistent and troubling challenge: youth unemployment.

Unemployment, the condition of being without gainful employment despite the willingness and ability to work, remains a major global concern. In Nigeria, however, it has reached alarming levels, particularly among young people. With estimates suggesting that a substantial percentage of Nigerian youth are either unemployed or underemployed, the consequences have become deeply embedded in the nation’s social and economic fabric.

The impact of youth unemployment is both widespread and severe. Economically, it leads to increased poverty levels and reduced productivity. Socially, it fuels frustration, hopelessness, and disillusionment among young people. This often manifests in rising rates of crime, cyber fraud, substance abuse, and involvement in political violence. When young people are unable to find legitimate means of livelihood, they may become vulnerable to negative influences, posing a threat not only to themselves but to society at large.

One of the primary drivers of youth unemployment in Nigeria is the inadequacy of the educational system. While many young Nigerians graduate from tertiary institutions each year, a significant number lack the practical and technical skills required in today’s job market. The disconnect between academic curricula and industry demands leaves graduates ill-prepared for employment, thereby widening the gap between education and employability.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s heavy dependence on the oil sector has contributed significantly to the unemployment crisis. Over the years, this reliance has led to the neglect of other critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology—sectors that have the potential to generate large-scale employment. The failure to diversify the economy has limited job opportunities and stifled innovation, leaving many young people without viable career paths.

In addition, rapid population growth continues to put immense pressure on the labor market. Each year, thousands of graduates enter the workforce, but the number of available jobs remains insufficient to absorb them. This imbalance creates intense competition for limited opportunities, leaving many qualified individuals unemployed for extended periods.

Access to finance also remains a major barrier for young Nigerians who wish to venture into entrepreneurship. Despite the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that many youths possess, the lack of access to credit facilities, mentorship, and business support systems makes it difficult for them to establish and sustain their own enterprises. This challenge is further compounded by infrastructural deficits, such as unreliable power supply and limited access to technology.

Security challenges across various parts of the country have also worsened the situation. In some regions, economic hardship and lack of opportunities have made young people susceptible to recruitment into violent or extremist activities. This not only exacerbates insecurity but also diverts the energy of the youth away from productive engagement.

Addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The government must take the lead by implementing policies that promote economic diversification, particularly by investing in agriculture, manufacturing, and the digital economy. These sectors hold immense potential for job creation and can absorb a large portion of the unemployed youth population.

Equally important is the reform of the educational system to emphasize skill acquisition, vocational training, and entrepreneurship. Schools and institutions must align their curricula with market needs, ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant and practical skills. Public-private partnerships can play a vital role in facilitating internships, apprenticeships, and job placement programs.

The private sector also has a crucial role to play in driving job creation and innovation. By investing in youth-focused initiatives and supporting startups, businesses can help unlock the potential of young Nigerians. Additionally, financial institutions should develop more accessible and youth-friendly credit schemes to support small and medium-sized enterprises.

On an individual level, young people must embrace self-development, adaptability, and continuous learning. In an increasingly competitive and evolving global economy, acquiring digital skills, engaging in vocational training, and exploring entrepreneurial opportunities can significantly improve employability.

In conclusion, youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today. However, it is not an insurmountable problem. With deliberate policies, strategic investments, and collective action from government, the private sector, and individuals, Nigeria can transform its youth population into a powerful engine of growth and development. By empowering young people with opportunities, skills, and resources, the nation can secure a more prosperous and stable future.

IVARA Favour Isaac is a student of Pan-African Institute of Management and Technology.

By: Ivara Favour Isaac

Opinion

Ozoro Festival: Tradition or Tyranny?

Published

2 days ago

March 30, 2026

The Tide

Quote:“These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.”

In recent days, national attention has turned to the small community of Ozoro in Delta State, where what was once described as a cultural fertility rite—the Alue-Do Festival—has become the subject of outrage, grief, and urgent national reflection. According to accounts from notable indigenes of Ozoro and the Isoko ethnic group, the festival was originally conceived as a symbolic ritual intended to bless couples struggling with conception. In theory, it was meant to celebrate life, continuity, and communal identity. However, what reportedly unfolded on March 22 bore no resemblance to any noble cultural ideal. Videos circulating widely on social media show groups of men chasing women, forcibly stripping them, and subjecting them to sexual assault in public spaces. These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.

They compel us to confront a difficult but necessary question: when does tradition cease to be culture and become tyranny? It is encouraging that prominent voices—including the First Lady, the Minister of Women Affairs, human rights organisations, and women’s advocacy groups—have condemned these barbaric acts. The Delta State Government has since banned the Alue-Do Festival, while law enforcement authorities have reportedly made arrests. Yet beyond the immediate outrage lies a deeper and more uncomfortable conversation—one that communities across the country must confront honestly: the thin line between culture and abuse. “Culture is not static—it evolves, or at least, it should.” Culture is often described as the soul of a people, encompassing traditions, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations. Nigeria is richly endowed with diverse cultural heritage, much of which we rightly celebrate.

However, when culture becomes a shield for harmful practices, it loses its moral authority. When actions that violate fundamental human rights are justified in the name of tradition, we must ask: whose culture is this, and at what cost? The events in Ozoro illustrate how a practice that may once have held symbolic meaning can devolve into something deeply harmful. Even if the Alue-Do Festival began as a benign fertility rite, its present manifestation—marked by violence and coercion—cannot be defended. “Culture must align with dignity, consent, and respect—anything less is not tradition, but abuse.” One of the most persistent arguments in defence of controversial practices is that they are “part of our heritage” and therefore beyond criticism. Yet harmful practices—child marriage, inhumane widowhood rites, and domestic abuse—have long been justified using this same reasoning. This argument is not only flawed; it is dangerous. No culture is above scrutiny, particularly when it endangers the rights and safety of its people.

History reminds us that many practices once considered “normal” are now widely condemned. Societies progress by questioning and reforming such practices—not by clinging to them. Nigeria is not exempt from this reality. As a nation governed by law and constitutional principles, we cannot afford to tolerate practices that undermine the rights of citizens—especially women. At the heart of the Ozoro incident lies a broader societal issue: the perception of women as objects rather than autonomous individuals. The actions of the perpetrators were not isolated—they were enabled by a mindset that sees women’s bodies as accessible, controllable, and, in some contexts, communal property. “Women are not possessions, prizes, or objects of exploitation—they are individuals with rights, agency, and dignity.” This mindset reflects a deeper systemic problem often described as “rape culture,” visible in victim-blaming narratives, the dismissal of harassment, and the silence that frequently surrounds abuse.

For meaningful change to occur, this mindset must be confronted directly. Parents, religious institutions, government agencies, and the media all have critical roles to play in reshaping societal attitudes. Traditional institutions also wield significant influence, particularly in rural communities. With that influence comes responsibility—not only to preserve culture but to ensure that cultural practices align with contemporary standards of human rights and decency.The reported denial by the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom of knowledge of the recent festival raises important questions about oversight and accountability. Community leaders and members alike must rise to their responsibilities. Cultural practices are sustained by collective acceptance. Silence, indifference, or complicity only perpetuate harm. While cultural reform is essential, it must be accompanied by accountability. The arrests made in connection with the incident are a step in the right direction, but they must lead to tangible outcomes. “Justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done.”

Allowing perpetrators of sexual violence to go unpunished sends a dangerous message—that such actions are tolerable. This fosters a culture of impunity. The law must be clear and unequivocal: sexual assault, in any form and under any guise, is a crime. It is not a cultural expression—it is a violation.It must be emphasised that calling for the abandonment of harmful cultural practices is not an attack on tradition, but a call to refine it. Culture, at its best, is dynamic—it adapts while preserving its core values.“Tradition should uplift, not oppress.” Modernising culture does not mean erasing identity. It means ensuring that traditions remain relevant, inclusive, and respectful of human dignity. As Nigeria continues to evolve, it must decide what kind of society it aspires to be: one that hides behind tradition to justify abuse, or one that embraces progress while honouring its heritage responsibly. The outrage over the events in Ozoro is justified—but outrage alone is not enough

. It must translate into action: legal, cultural, and educational. We must state, without ambiguity, that no tradition justifies the violation of human dignity. We must hold perpetrators accountable and challenge the attitudes that enable such acts. True development is measured not only by infrastructure or economic growth, but by how a society treats its most vulnerable members. “If a cultural practice dehumanises, degrades, or endangers, it has no place in a modern society.” Where tradition fails to uphold dignity, it ceases to be culture. It becomes tyranny.

By: Calista Ezeaku

Opinion

Bazia EXCO @ One: NUJ Rivers Reawakened

Published

1 week ago

March 23, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “For the first time in years, Rivers journalists are not just hearing promises—they are seeing a union that works.”

The first year in office of the Paul Bazia-led executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has offered something many had almost given up on—renewed confidence in union leadership. For a body as critical as the NUJ, whose responsibility goes beyond professional coordination to include the welfare, protection, and continuous development of journalists, expectations are always high. Unfortunately, past experiences had conditioned many members to expect less—less action, less visibility, and less impact.This is why the past twelve months stand out. Within a relatively short period, the Bazia-led administration has demonstrated a level of drive that distinguishes it from its predecessors. There is a noticeable shift from inertia to activity, from routine administration to purposeful leadership. Initiatives captured in the one-year report point to an executive that understands both the urgency of its mandate and the frustrations of its members.

Particularly commendable is the renewed attention to journalists’ welfare. For too long, welfare issues have lingered without meaningful resolution, leaving many practitioners feeling unsupported. The current leadership’s efforts—through engagement, structured support, and timely interventions—signal a welcome change in priorities. Equally important is the push toward professional development. In an era where journalism is rapidly evolving, capacity building is no longer optional. The administration’s commitment to training and skill enhancement reflects an understanding that a stronger union must be built on more competent and competitive professionals. There is also something to be said about visibility and voice. A vibrant NUJ must not only serve its members internally but also stand as a credible voice in the public space—defending press freedom, promoting ethical standards, and constructively engaging critical issues.

Encouragingly, the current executive appears more present and responsive, giving the union a renewed sense of relevance. Perhaps what resonates most, however, is the sense of movement. For many members, the difference between the present and the immediate past is not subtle—it is clear. Where there was once stagnation, there is now direction. Where there was doubt, there is growing belief. Beyond the visible strides recorded within this first year, what perhaps deserves even greater applause is the restoration of institutional confidence within the Nigeria Union of Journalists. For a long time, many members had grown disenchanted, viewing the union more as a ceremonial body than an active force capable of defending their interests and advancing their welfare. That narrative, however, is gradually changing. The Bazia-led executive has not only initiated programs but has also rekindled a sense of belonging among members.

Meetings appear more purposeful, engagements more intentional, and decisions more reflective of collective interest. This psychological shift—subtle as it may seem—is one of the most critical achievements of the past year, because a union that its members believe in is already halfway to effectiveness. It is also important to underscore the contrast with the immediate past, not as an exercise in criticism, but as a necessary context for measuring progress. Where previous administrations struggled to translate plans into action, the current leadership has shown a greater bias for execution. Projects that once lingered in discussion stages are now seeing tangible movement, and issues that were previously deferred are receiving attention. This difference in approach—moving from prolonged deliberation to decisive action—has helped reposition the union as a more responsive and relevant institution.

While no administration is without its shortcomings, the willingness to act, even in the face of constraints, marks a significant departure from what members were accustomed to. Looking ahead, the expectations of members—and indeed the wider public—will only grow stronger. With a solid first year behind it, the Bazia-led executive now carries the burden of consistency. Members will expect deeper welfare interventions that go beyond immediate relief to more sustainable support systems. They will look for expanded training opportunities that prepare journalists for the rapidly changing media landscape. They will also expect a firmer, more courageous voice on issues affecting press freedom and professional integrity. Above all, they will demand continuity—assurance that the progress recorded so far is not a fleeting phase but the beginning of a sustained transformation.

Meeting these expectations will not be easy, but it is precisely this challenge that defines enduring leadership. That said, this moment of applause must also serve as a moment of reflection. A strong first year inevitably raises expectations. Journalists in Rivers State will now look beyond initial achievements toward consolidation. Welfare interventions must become more structured and far-reaching. Training programs must be sustained and expanded. Advocacy must become more consistent and impactful. Most importantly, the unity of the union must be strengthened, ensuring that all members feel included and carried along. Transparency will also be key. Continued open communication about finances, decisions, and challenges will deepen trust and set a standard for accountable union leadership. The task ahead is clear: to convert early momentum into lasting institutional progress.

For the Bazia-led executive, the opportunity is significant. It has, within one year, reawakened belief in what the NUJ Rivers State Council can be. The next step is to ensure that this renewed energy does not fade, but instead becomes the foundation of a stronger, more responsive, and more respected union. For the members, the message is equally clear—expect more, demand more, and support what works because in the end, a vibrant union is not built by leadership alone, but by a collective commitment to progress. And for now, under Bazia, that progress has truly begun.

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi