The Delta State Government has intensified efforts to tackle the menace of erosion by providing N1 billion in counterpart funding for a European Investment Bank (EIB)-assisted project aimed at addressing severe erosion challenges in the state.

The State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ejiro Tommy Jamani, disclosed this while appearing as a guest on NTA TVU Pack Live at the Amachai/Ogbozoma erosion site in Okpanam. Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. (Mrs.) Minnie Oseji, Jamani emphasized that the funding underscores the state government’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

He noted that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has prioritized the rehabilitation of erosion-prone communities, particularly the Amachai/Ogbozoma and Vanguard Area erosion sites, by ensuring the prompt payment of counterpart funds, which enabled Delta State to qualify for the EIB-assisted project.

Government’s Commitment to Tackling Erosion

Jamani further revealed that, in addition to the N1 billion counterpart funding, the governor approved an additional N300 million for engineering designs and presentations to stakeholders.

According to him, the government’s proactive measures are already yielding results, with the presentation of engineering designs for the two erosion sites paving the way for implementation.

The commissioner also highlighted the recent visit of the Federal Project Management Team of the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), led by its National Project Coordinator, Engr. Anda Ayuba-Yalaks, describing it as a strong indication that Delta State is fully prepared for the EIB project’s disbursement. The project is expected to commence following its official launch in April 2025.

Call for Community Support

Jamani urged residents to support the MORE Agenda of Governor Oborevwori’s administration and cooperate with contractors who will be working in their communities.

With these interventions, the Delta State Government is taking significant steps to mitigate erosion challenges, enhance infrastructure, and improve the socio-economic well-being of affected communities.

By Abel Johngold, MNIPR 

The Bayelsa State Government has issued a strong warning against engaging with Capt. Dr. Winston Ogoun, a self-proclaimed Pere of Bilabiri Mein Kingdom, declaring that he is not a recognized traditional ruler in the state.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Thompson Amule, confirmed that Ogoun’s name does not appear in the government’s list of gazetted monarchs, urging individuals, companies, and security agencies to avoid any dealings with him.

Government’s Official Warning to Oil Companies and Security Agencies

In a formal letter addressed to Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Country Chairman, Osagie Okumbo, the government made its position clear:

“I write to affirm that Dr. Winston Ogoun is not a gazetted Chief as recorded in our official documents.”
“Please be informed that anyone who does business with him does so at their own peril.”
“Be guided accordingly.”

The letter, dated March 3, 2025, was also sent to top oil companies, security agencies, and military formations in Bayelsa State, reinforcing that Ogoun is not a legitimate monarch.

Allegations of Fraud: Sale of NDDC-Donated Generators

Beyond the chieftaincy dispute, serious allegations have emerged against Capt. Dr. Winston Ogoun and his alleged accomplice, Takenane Abaka, a self-imposed CDC Chairman of Bilabiri 1.

Reports indicate that the duo allegedly sold off two high-capacity generators—a 300KVA Perkin and a 500KVA Caterpillar—originally provided by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2008 for Bilabiri 1 and 2 communities.

The generators, now valued at over ₦500 million, were reportedly sold off for just ₦11 million in a fraudulent deal aimed at securing false recognition.

Investigations suggest that the fake endorsement was facilitated by Abrakassa, a retired official from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Community Held Hostage by Fear and Intimidation

Residents of Bilabiri 1 allege that Ogoun and Abaka have been running a reign of terror, using threats and intimidation to silence opposition. Indigenes fear violent retaliation if they speak out against their activities.

Community members and stakeholders are now calling on the Bayelsa State Government and security agencies to take swift action, restore order, and bring those responsible for fraud and intimidation to justice.

This shocking case of fraud and abuse of power has sparked outrage among Bilabiri indigenes, who are demanding urgent intervention and accountability.

By Charles Nwabardi

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has successfully met the European Investment Bank (EIB) requirements for a gully erosion rehabilitation project in Delta State, clearing the way for a long-awaited environmental intervention.

The National Project Coordinator of the Nigeria Climate Change Adaptation, Erosion, and Watershed Project (NEWMAP-EIB), Mr. Anda Ayuba-Yalaks, confirmed this during an assessment of the Amachai/Ogbozoma and Vanguard Area Erosion Rehabilitation Sites.

Describing the sites as critical and in urgent need of intervention, Mr. Yalaks warned that failure to act swiftly could lead to the collapse of buildings and further infrastructural damage. Following a thorough assessment, he declared Delta State 100% ready to access EIB funding.

Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to tackling environmental challenges was further demonstrated by his ₦1 billion counterpart funding, which secured Delta’s participation in the project. The rehabilitation initiative is set to launch officially in April 2025 in Abuja, led by the Honourable Minister of Environment.

State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ejiro Tommy Jamani, lauded the governor’s proactive approach, noting that his administration’s actions were already bringing relief to affected communities.

With EIB funding now within reach, residents of Amachai/Ogbozoma and other erosion-prone areas can look forward to long-overdue solutions to their environmental woes.

By Abel Johngold, MNIPR

Asaba came alive with a wave of activism as the Vito Corsica Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, in partnership with the Blizzard Deck (Boston and environs, USA), hit the streets in a bold march advocating for women’s rights, protection, and empowerment in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025.

The rally, which kicked off at 10 a.m. from the Vito Corsica Deck Anchor Point off Okpanam Road, was a spectacle of solidarity and purpose. Led by Deck Capoon, Comrade Michael Chukwuma Nwaidei, the Seadogs made strategic stops to engage the public, distributing educational materials to motorists and pedestrians while driving home this year’s IWD theme: “Accelerate Action.” The message was clear—gender equality, dignity, and freedom for women must be pursued with urgency.

In a spontaneous show of support, several women who were driving along the rally route parked their cars and joined the march, swelling the ranks of demonstrators and amplifying the message of unity and action.

The event drew the participation of influential women’s organizations, including:
✅ Fifth/Fifty Action Women, led by Comrade Patricia Gbemudu and Comrade Eunice Emeyezia
✅ FIDA Delta (International Federation of Women Lawyers), represented by Barr. Ify
✅ Charity Aid Foundation for Women, spearheaded by Barr. Ikeatu Egondu Grace

Speaking during the rally, Comrade Nwaidei reaffirmed the Pyrates Confraternity’s unwavering commitment to gender justice, stating:

“Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women worldwide. Women should be honoured—not just today, but every day—because they have shaped societies, economies, and governance globally.”

He also took a hard stance on the pressing issues confronting women in Nigeria, highlighting the scourge of gender-based violence, underrepresentation in leadership, and inadequate maternal healthcare. He threw a direct challenge at policymakers, asking: “How many women are in the Delta State House of Assembly?”

With women comprising nearly half of Nigeria’s population yet falling far short of the 35% national gender policy target in governance, the rally underscored the urgency of inclusion in leadership, politics, and economic development.

As onlookers watched and participants marched through the heart of Asaba, one thing became clear—the fight for women’s rights is not just a campaign, but a responsibility that demands immediate action. The Pyrates Confraternity vowed to keep pushing for change, calling on all stakeholders to accelerate progress toward true gender equality.

By Charles Nwabardi

Delta State Waste Management Board Chairman, Hon. Matthew Mofe Edema, defended the board’s role at a public hearing convened by the Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Oil and Gas. The session, held at the Assembly complex, reviewed a proposed bill that would repeal the 2008 Waste Management Board Law and introduce a new legal framework to enhance waste management in the state.

During the hearing, Edema presented the board’s memorandum, emphasizing that every state in the country operates its own waste management agency—Delta State should be no exception. He reaffirmed his commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier environment and noted that all concerns and recommendations were addressed in the board’s submission.

Edema assured attendees that the board remains steadfast in fulfilling its mandate, undeterred in its mission to improve environmental conditions across Delta State.

The hearing was led by Hon. Festus Utuama, with Hon. Chief Ferguson Onwo and Hon. Matthew Omonade also in attendance. Accompanying Edema were board representatives Hon. Felix Erhimedafe (Member Central), Hon. Cosmas Igbenije (Member North), and Chief Mrs. Amb. Ethel Enifome Odunwa (Member South), along with various directors and management staff.