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Oborevwori Calls On FG To Revive Delta Ports
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday urged the Federal Government to revive the Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu ports, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to partner with the government at the centre in that regard. The governor made the call when he received the Board of Directors of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), led by its Chairman, Prince Senator Adedayo Adeleye, on a courtesy visit. He emphasized that the revival of the seaports would unlock the full economic potentials of Delta as Nigeria’s maritime hub. He insisted that the revitalization of the ports would create jobs, attract investments, and boost national revenue, saying: *"Delta State is strategically blessed with four ports. If these ports are revived, they will create massive employment, stimulate trade, and strengthen the economy of Delta and Nigeria. It is often more impactful to modernize existing ports than to build new ones."* While commending the NPA for its modernization efforts, Oborevwori appealed for urgent dredging of the Warri Channel and rehabilitation of Warri and Koko port facilities, stressing that such projects should be treated as national priorities. Highlighting federal–state collaborations, the governor disclosed that the Federal Government had awarded the Summit Junction–Bridge Head section of the Benin–Asaba Highway to Heartland Construction Company, while the State Government had awarded a section of the Sapele–Warri Road to CCECC at a cost of ₦35 billion. He said these efforts reflect the positive relationship between the state and the centre. Oborevwori assured prospective investors of improved security, noting that oil installations were no longer under frequent attacks and that the state had enacted a law against illegal levies and harassment of companies. He urged companies operating in the state to honour their Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with host communities by engaging local people, describing the approach as vital to sustaining peace. The governor also revealed that Julius Berger had returned to Delta after years of absence and is currently handling major flyover projects at PTI Junction, Enerhen Junction, and DSC Roundabout. *“Delta State is open for business, ready for partnership, and determined to consolidate its position as Nigeria’s leading maritime and economic hub,”* he said. In his remarks, Senator Adeleye assured the Board’s readiness to work with the Delta State Government to revive the ports, describing them as strategic gateways capable of boosting trade, creating jobs, and driving economic growth. He explained that the NPA Board, inaugurated in June by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, had embarked on a nationwide tour to assess challenges before implementing solutions. According to him, Delta ports contribute about 10.7 percent of Nigeria’s trade volumes, a figure he said could improve significantly with stronger collaboration. Adeleye, however, identified issues such as underutilization, collapsed quays, shallow drafts, and the need for a deep seaport to attract global shipping traffic. He commended the Delta State Government for supporting security around the ports and fostering cordial relations with host communities, stressing that safety and peace were crucial to sustaining operations.
8/25/2025, 4:17:57 PM
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INEC Begins Physical Voter Registration Nationwide Today As 5.9m PVCs Remain Uncollected
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has kicked off the physical phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), which begins today (Monday) across Nigeria. This stage follows the online pre-registration that started on August 18, 2025. According to data from INEC’s website and officials, at least 5,965,451 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are still uncollected nationwide, spread across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. In Abia State, 171,626 PVCs remain unclaimed, while Adamawa has 225,916. Akwa Ibom records 158,795, and Anambra has 31,690. Bauchi lists 37,169, Bayelsa 39,249, and Benue a significant 170,586. Borno has 66,072, while Cross River reports 93,667. Delta ranks high with 232,183, followed by Ebonyi at 45,851 and Edo at 101,617. Ekiti and Enugu account for 29,595 and 117,404, respectively. Further figures show 40,840 uncollected PVCs in Gombe, 101,003 in Imo, 52,933 in Jigawa, and 170,735 in Kaduna. Kano, one of the most populous states, tops with 327,177 unclaimed cards. Katsina and Kebbi report 55,274 and 51,870, while Kogi records 99,494. Kwara stands at 158,653, Lagos leads nationwide with 845,225, Nasarawa has 51,495, and Niger 64,616. Ogun follows closely with 410,281 uncollected cards, Ondo has 295,856, Osun 360,794, and Oyo 515,254. Plateau reports 101,995, Rivers 251,418, Sokoto 74,091, and Taraba 197,049. Yobe and Zamfara record 47,295 and 76,815, while the Federal Capital Territory closes the list with 93,868. The ongoing CVR allows eligible Nigerians not only to register but also to collect their outstanding PVCs from previous registration exercises. Both fresh applicants and those who pre-registered online are required to complete their registration physically at INEC centres, where their biometrics will be captured. INEC also explained that the exercise accommodates transfers of voter registration within or across states, as well as replacements for lost or damaged cards. The commission stated that the “CVR exercise will take place at 811 centres across the country, including all 774 Local Government Area offices and State offices. “Registration will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. The process is open only to Nigerian citizens who are at least 18 years of age and have never registered before.”
8/25/2025, 7:36:47 AM
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Stop Praising Ogbuku, Probe NDDC Corruption Now IPF Tells EFCC
The Ijaw Publishers' Forum (IPF) has intensified calls for the probe of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under the leadership of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to emulate the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in exposing corruption. The Forum commended the ICPC for boldly speaking against corrupt practices in the NDDC and urged the EFCC to investigate alleged contract scams, unauthorized spending, “ghost project-Hope,” unrealistic youth programs, third-party contractor payments, substandard projects, abandoned contracts, and other failed initiatives that have denied the Niger Delta people of meaningful development. The call was contained in a statement signed by the Forum’s Spokesperson, Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala, and made available to newsmen in Warri, Delta State, on Monday. Reacting to ICPC’s warning to NDDC staff against corruption, the Forum faulted the EFCC for commending Ogbuku’s administration, describing the agency’s recent praise as “unhealthy and suspicious.” It warned that the Niger Delta people may lose faith in EFCC’s ability to combat corruption if it continues “political praise-singing and trade by barter” instead of acting as a watchdog. The Forum cautioned the EFCC not to “dine with people responsible for the underdevelopment of the Niger Delta,” stressing that the Commission should stand with the people rather than become a tool of the NDDC. "We express our deep concerns over the use of *reckless and fraudulent schemes* employed by the current NDDC leadership to siphon resources intended for the infrastructural development of the Niger Delta region," the Forum declared. It further called on the EFCC to take a cue from ICPC’s quarterly anti-corruption sensitization workshop, which warned that *“anybody caught in corrupt act would face the full wrath of the law.”* "The partnership between the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and anti-graft agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), raises serious questions about the integrity of efforts to combat corruption within the agency. "The EFCC must prioritize its mandate, to prevent and prosecute corrupt Individuals, rather than engaging in partnerships that may inadvertently shield corrupt officials from scrutiny. "The EFCC should re-evaluate its approach, and show commitment to its core mission of safeguarding public funds, ensuring that it does not become complicit in the very corruption it was established to combat," the statement concluded.
8/25/2025, 7:06:29 AM
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NiMet Forecasts 3~day Thunderstorms, Rain From Monday
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted widespread rains and thunderstorms across the country from Monday through Wednesday. According to the forecast, thunderstorms with moderate rainfall will affect parts of the northern states—Jigawa, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina—on Monday morning, while afternoon showers are expected to extend to Kebbi, Adamawa, and Taraba. NiMet further cautioned that flash flooding could occur in Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano during the forecast period. “Central states like Niger, Benue, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, and Nasarawa will see morning cloudiness and light to moderate rainfall, with a high risk of flooding in parts of Plateau. “In the south, light to moderate rains will affect Ondo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States.” Ads by According to the agency, Tuesday will bring sunny skies with patchy clouds to the north, while thunderstorms and rains persist in parts of Adamawa, Taraba, and neighboring states. “Central and southern regions will continue experiencing moderate rainfall. “By Wednesday, northern states will have sunny mornings with thunderstorms developing later, while the central region will see cloudy skies and moderate rains. “Southern states, including Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River, will experience morning showers and moderate to heavy afternoon rains.” it said. NiMet warned residents in flood-prone areas to activate emergency responses, avoid driving during heavy rains, secure loose objects, and take precautions against strong winds and low nighttime temperatures. It also advised disconnecting electrical appliances during storms and avoiding shelter under tall trees. “Airline operators are urged to obtain airport-specific weather reports for safe planning. For updates, residents can visit www.nimet.gov.ng. Thunderstorms with moderate rainfall are expected over parts of the northern states, including Jigawa, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Yobe, and Katsina, starting Monday morning, with afternoon rains extending to Kebbi, Adamawa, and Taraba. “Flash floods are possible in Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kano States during this period. “Central states like Niger, Benue, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, and Nasarawa will see morning cloudiness and light to moderate rainfall, with a high risk of flooding in parts of Plateau. “In the south, light to moderate rains will affect Ondo, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, Anambra, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States.” According to the agency, Tuesday will bring sunny skies with patchy clouds to the north, while thunderstorms and rains persist in parts of Adamawa, Taraba, and neighboring states. “Central and southern regions will continue experiencing moderate rainfall. “By Wednesday, northern states will have sunny mornings with thunderstorms developing later, while the central region will see cloudy skies and moderate rains. “Southern states, including Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Cross River, will experience morning showers and moderate to heavy afternoon rains.” it said. NiMet warned residents in flood-prone areas to activate emergency responses, avoid driving during heavy rains, secure loose objects, and take precautions against strong winds and low nighttime temperatures. It also advised disconnecting electrical appliances during storms and avoiding shelter under tall trees. “Airline operators are urged to obtain airport-specific weather reports for safe planning. For updates, residents can visit www.nimet.gov.ng.
8/25/2025, 6:45:53 AM
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NAFDAC Raises The Alarm Over Fake Milk In Circulation
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on Friday issued a warning over the circulation of counterfeit Cowbell “Our Milk” 12g sachets in Nigeria. In a public notice on its website, NAFDAC explained that Promasidor Nigeria Ltd, the authorised manufacturer and marketing rights holder of Cowbell “Our Milk,” had alerted the agency to the presence of fake products designed to closely mimic the original. According to the agency, the counterfeit versions illegally use the brand name, packaging style, NAFDAC registration number, and trademark. Promasidor further confirmed that the fake products are not produced or distributed by them, noting that the packaging design being copied was last legitimately used in September 2023. To help consumers identify the genuine product, NAFDAC highlighted key differences: authentic Cowbell “Our Milk” is creamy, packaged with the updated PNG “Our Creamy Goodness” artwork, carries batch details printed with laser technology, has coding on the designated coding area of the sachet, and features automated sealing and cutting along the vertical edges. It said the content of the counterfeit Cowbell 12g sachet milk does not seem like milk, the packaging material used is the old PNG artwork “Our Milk”, the printing of the batch details was done with ink instead of laser printing, the coding was not done on the coding area but on a different part of the sachet, and the sealing and cutting on the vertical sides were manually done. It added, “The use or consumption of counterfeit Cowbell ‘Our Milk’ Milk presents serious health and safety risks. “Such products may contain harmful substances, including toxic chemicals, unapproved additives, or diluted ingredients that do not meet food safety standards. “Consumption of counterfeit milk can result in foodborne illnesses, allergic reactions, organ damage, or even death in severe cases. Infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.” The agency urged all NAFDAC zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and mop up the counterfeit Cowbell 12g sachet Milk products within their zones and states. “Distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to prevent the distribution, sale, and use of the counterfeit milk product. “All food products must be obtained from authorised/licensed manufacturers/suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked. “Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of sale of substandard and counterfeit food products to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng “Similarly, healthcare professionals and patients are also encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of counterfeited food products to the nearest NAFDAC office, or through the use of the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng or via e-mail on pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng,” it said.
8/22/2025, 8:17:14 PM
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Oborevwori Flags Off N35bn Effurun~Sapele Road Reconstruction
The Delta State Government has taken bold steps to end the nightmare of motorists on the Warri/Sapele/Benin highway by awarding a major reconstruction contract to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). The project, estimated at ₦35 billion, will cover the stretch from the Spare Parts Market U-Turn in Effurun to just beyond Ohore Junction before Omenta Bridge, cutting across Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Areas. According to the State Tenders Board, the contract is slated for completion within 12 months. Under the terms of the contract, CCECC will reconstruct a total of 10 kilometres—five kilometres on each carriageway—expanding the width to 11.6 metres with additional 2.8-metre shoulders. The road will feature stormwater drains, reinforced concrete pavement, and a high-quality wearing course to guarantee durability. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, through his *MORE Agenda*, has consistently placed infrastructure renewal and urban development at the forefront of his administration. His latest intervention on the Effurun–Sapele corridor is expected to drastically reduce gridlock, enhance mobility, and stimulate economic activity along one of the busiest gateways into Delta State. Despite being a federal highway, the Warri/Sapele/Benin Road has for years remained in a deplorable state, marked by failed sections, endless traffic jams, and frequent accidents. This has posed untold hardship to commuters and businesses, threatening Delta’s position as a commercial hub in the South-South. By engaging CCECC, a company renowned for handling large-scale infrastructure projects, the Oborevwori administration has reassured Deltans that the work will meet international standards of quality and resilience. This intervention not only provides immediate relief to road users but also underscores the governor’s determination to invest in infrastructure that supports inclusive growth, safer mobility, and prosperity beyond state-owned roads—creating better links to markets, industries, and neighbouring states.
8/22/2025, 7:56:44 PM
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NiMet Forecasts Three day Thunderstorms, Rain
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast thunderstorms and rainfall across various parts of the country from Friday through Sunday. In its weather outlook issued on Thursday in Abuja, NiMet projected thunderstorms with moderate rainfall over Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Taraba, Zamfara, Sokoto and Kaduna States in the northern region during the morning hours of Friday. The forecast further indicated that much of the region would experience thunderstorms with moderate rains in the afternoon and evening. “For central region, there are prospects of light rains over Niger, Nasarawa, the Federal Capital Territory, Benue, Kogi, Kwara and Plateau States. “Thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau and the Federal Capital Territory during the afternoon/evening period. For the southern region, cloudy skies are expected over the region with chances of light rain over parts of Oyo, Enugu, Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Delta and Cross River States during the morning hours,” it said. NiMet also predicted light rainfall later in the day across Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Oyo, Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River and Akwa Ibom States. On Saturday, the agency forecast thunderstorms with moderate rainfall in Sokoto, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Borno, Yobe and Taraba States during the morning, with additional thunderstorms expected later in the day over Borno, Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi and Taraba States. “For the central region, there are prospects of light rains over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Kogi, Niger, Benue and Kwara States during the morning period. “For the southern region, cloudy skies are expected over the region with prospects of light rains over Enugu, Imo, Cross River, Akwa Ibom States during the morning hours.‎ “Later on the day, light rains are‎ expected over most parts of the region,” it said. According to NiMet, thunderstorms with moderate rainfall are anticipated on Sunday morning across Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano and Borno States. In the afternoon and evening, thunderstorms are also expected in Sokoto, Zamfara, Borno and Katsina States. “For the central region, cloudy skies are expected with chances of light rain over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Kogi and Benue States during the morning hours. “Later in the day, light rains are anticipated over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Kogi and Kwara States. “For southern region, cloudy skies are expected over the region with chances of light rains over parts of Imo, Enugu, Ondo, Ekiti, Edo and Bayelsa states during the morning period,” it said. NiMet further predicted light rains later in the day over Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Imo, Enugu, Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa States. The agency cautioned the public on safety measures during the rainy period, urging Nigerians to avoid driving in heavy rain, while farmers should refrain from applying fertilizers or pesticides just before rainfall to prevent nutrient leaching. “Ensure warm clothing for the vulnerable persons due to low night-time temperatures. Ensure that loose objects are fastened to avoid collision. ‎”Disconnect electrical appliances from electrical sockets. Stay away from tall trees to avoid impact from falling branches and broken trees. ”Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet ‎for effective planning in their operations,” it said. The agency also encouraged residents to keep updated by monitoring NiMet’s official website for regular weather information.
8/22/2025, 12:38:01 PM
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Tinubu Urges Nigerians Abroad To Return, Says Nation Is on The Rise
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appealed to Nigerians in the diaspora to consider returning home, assuring them that the country is on a renewed path of growth and development that requires their involvement. Speaking at the Kahala Hotel and Resort in Yokohama, Japan, during an interactive session with Nigerians on the sidelines of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), the President said his administration is committed to creating an environment where citizens can thrive and prosper. He acknowledged that while some may remain abroad for personal or economic reasons, Nigeria’s future progress will only be possible through collective effort. “Your contribution is vital. If you stay away, who will build it?” Tinubu asked. The President emphasized that national development is not the sole responsibility of government and urged Nigerians abroad to act as true ambassadors by projecting a positive image of their homeland. He stressed that citizenship goes beyond holding a passport, as it also involves character, sacrifice, and commitment to nation-building. Tinubu highlighted key reforms under his administration, including improved passport issuance, stabilised economic fundamentals, expanded healthcare investment to reduce medical tourism, and initiatives to widen business opportunities, attract investors, and strengthen the stock market. Members of the Nigerian community in Japan—comprising professionals, entrepreneurs, and students—pledged support for the government’s reforms. Emeka Ebogota, President of the Nigerian Union in Japan, commended Tinubu for engaging directly with them and expressed the Union’s readiness to contribute to Nigeria’s transformation. The event was attended by top government officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake, Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh, Minister of Science and Technology Uche Nnaji, Minister of Budget Atiku Bagudu, and Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite.
8/22/2025, 8:24:51 AM
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