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Sphere Watch, Bénin (2026)

14/06/2026

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO HRH DR. SAMUEL OGBUKU ON HIS EMERGENCE AS THE OBENEMA OF AYAKORO COMMUNITY

On behalf of my family and the Rivers State Office of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), I heartily congratulate His Royal Highness, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), on his revered ascension to the revered traditional throne as Daufa De VI, the Obenema of Ayakoro Community (Paramount Ruler).

This well-deserved elevation is a testament to your exemplary leadership, commitment to service, and unwavering dedication to the development and progress of your people and the Niger Delta region at large. It is also a reflection of the immense confidence, respect, and trust which the people of Ayakoro Community have reposed in you.

As you assume this sacred responsibility, I have no doubt that your wisdom, experience, and passion for community development will further strengthen the bonds of unity, peace, and prosperity within the kingdom and beyond. Your emergence as Obenema marks the beginning of another chapter of impactful leadership and selfless service to humanity.

I pray that Almighty God grants you good health, divine wisdom, strength, and a peaceful, prosperous, and successful reign on the throne of your forebears.

Please accept my warmest congratulations on this remarkable and historic honour.

Long live the Obenema of Ayakoro Community.

Signed:

Hon. Chief Tony C. Okocha, KSC, JP, DSSRS
Representative of Rivers State on the NDDC Board.

June 14, 2026.

14/06/2026

OGBUKU EMERGES DAUFA VI OF AYAKORO, PROMISES PEACE, UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has ascended the traditional throne of Ayakoro Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, emerging as the new Paramount Ruler with the revered title of Daufa VI.

Dr. Ogbuku's emergence marks a new chapter in the history of the ancient riverine community, coming six months after the passing of the late monarch. In accordance with the provisions of the Ayakoro Community Constitution, the former Deputy Paramount Ruler automatically succeeded to the throne, ensuring continuity in the traditional leadership structure.

The transition process, which was supervised by officials of the Bayelsa State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, also saw Chief Micha Itekesi assume the position of Deputy Paramount Ruler of the community.

For many residents and stakeholders, the emergence of Dr. Ogbuku represents the enthronement of a leader whose years of service, commitment and contributions to community development have earned him widespread respect both within and beyond Ayakoro Kingdom.

Speaking shortly after his installation, the NDDC boss described his elevation as a profound honour that goes beyond titles, public office and personal recognition.

According to him, the gesture by the people of Ayakoro is a reflection of their appreciation for years of sacrifice, dedication and unwavering commitment to the progress and wellbeing of the community.

Dr. Ogbuku noted that the confidence reposed in him by the people serves as a reminder that selfless service and genuine concern for humanity never go unnoticed.

The newly installed Daufa VI pledged to discharge his responsibilities with humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the collective aspirations of the people, while seeking divine wisdom and guidance in the course of his reign.

He expressed confidence that under his leadership, Ayakoro Community would witness a new era characterised by peace, unity, dignity and sustainable development.

"May God grant us wisdom, patience, courage and clarity. We pray that our reign will bring peace, unity, dignity and greater progress to Ayakoro Community," he declared.

Dr. Ogbuku also expressed gratitude to the people of Ayakoro for the trust bestowed on him and assured that he would work harmoniously with all stakeholders to build a stronger, more prosperous and united community for present and future generations.

His ascension has continued to attract goodwill messages from indigenes and admirers, many of whom believe that the combination of his traditional responsibility and vast administrative experience will further strengthen the fortunes of Ayakoro Community.

With the emergence of Daufa VI, Ayakoro appears set to embark on a fresh journey anchored on unity, peace and shared prosperity.

12/06/2026

DEMOCRACY DAY: RIVERS APC CHAIRMAN CELEBRATES NIGERIA; CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT TINUBU ON HIS STELLAR PERFORMANCE IN 3 YEARS IN OFFICE

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Hon. Chief Tony C. Okocha, KSC, JP, DSSRS, has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day, while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for what he described as a stellar performance in the first three years of his administration.

In his Democracy Day message, Chief Okocha stated that President Tinubu has demonstrated exceptional leadership, courage, and commitment to the advancement of Nigeria through bold reforms and people-oriented policies aimed at repositioning the nation for sustainable growth and development.

According to the Rivers APC Chairman, despite the challenges associated with implementing critical reforms, the President has remained focused on strengthening the economy, improving infrastructure, enhancing security, and expanding opportunities for Nigerians across various sectors.

Chief Okocha noted that Democracy Day provides an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria's democratic journey and appreciate leaders who have remained steadfast in their commitment to good governance, accountability, and national development.

He praised President Tinubu's determination to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria and expressed confidence that the administration's ongoing policies and programmes would continue to yield positive results for the country.

Chief Okocha also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, CON, for his remarkable contributions to the development of the nation's capital, noting that the visible transformation in infrastructure and public services within the FCT reflects dedication, effective leadership, and commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy.

The APC Chairman further urged Nigerians to remain united, support democratic institutions, and contribute meaningfully to the nation's progress.

He wished all Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Democracy Day celebration and reaffirmed the commitment of the APC to the ideals of democracy, good governance, and national development.

Jacobs Chimezie Happiness (MCSE)
Senior Special Assistant (Media & Strategic Communication) to Chief Tony Okocha.

June 12, 2026.

12/06/2026

2026 DEMOCRACY DAY FELICITATION MESSAGE BY THE VICE-CHANCELLOR, PROFESSOR OWUNARI ABRAHAM GEORGEWILL, TO STAFF, STUDENTS, ALUMNI, AND STAKEHOLDERS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT.

"Deepening Democracy Through Education, Unity, and National Development"

On behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Management, staff, students and stakeholders of the University of Port Harcourt, I warmly felicitate with the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the University of Port Harcourt Community, and all Nigerians on the occasion of the 2026
Democracy Day Celebration.

Democracy Day is a solemn and significant occasion that honours our nation's democratic journey and the sacrifices made in the struggle for democratic rule, freedom, justice, and good governance. It serves as a reminder of the need to continually safeguard democratic institutions and fundamental freedoms, while promoting civic responsibility, strengthening national unity, and renewing our collective commitment to peace, equity, accountability, and sustainable national development.

We recognize that education is one of the strongest pillars of democracy. Universities play a critical role in shaping enlightened citizens, nurturing responsible leadership, encouraging critical thinking, and providing solutions to societal challenges. We therefore remain committed to producing graduates who will contribute meaningfully to the advancement of our nation and humanity

As we commemorate this day, we commend the resilience and patriotism of Nigerians and pray for continued commitment to peace, unity, tolerance, and national development. We also urge our staff, students, and young people—the future custodians of our democracy—to remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge, civic responsibility, and constructive participation in national discourse and development.

May this Democracy Day renew our hope in our nation, 🇳🇬 and strengthen our resolve to build a country where justice, equity, opportunity, and prosperity are accessible to all.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live the Nigerian academic community.
Long live the University of Port Harcourt.

Prof. Owunari A. Georgewill, KSC, FRSB, FWASOT, FECRMI, FFS, FIIA, FWASOP, FIARSA, FIHSC, FFA, DFCIHTMA
Vice-Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt
12th June, 2026

27/05/2026

The Samuel Ogbuku Way for Niger Delta

By
Martins Ogolo

"Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality."
~ Warren Bennis

In the complex landscape of Nigeria's regional development, the Niger Delta region has long stood as both a symbol of immense resource wealth and of enduring socio-economic challenges. Steering meaningful change in such a region requires more than administrative competence; it demands vision, courage, empathy, and consistency. This is where “The Dr Samuel Ogbuku Way” becomes not just relevant but instructive.

Dr Samuel Ogbuku’s journey within the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) reflects a leadership model anchored in reform, accountability, and people-oriented development. Assuming leadership at a time when public confidence in the Commission required rebuilding, he approached the task with a clear sense of mission: to restore credibility and reposition the NDDC as a vehicle for tangible progress.

One of the defining aspects of his stewardship has been the emphasis on institutional reform. Recognising that sustainable development cannot occur without strong systems, Dr Ogbuku prioritised transparency in operations and procurement processes. By strengthening internal frameworks and promoting accountability, he set a tone that redefined expectations within the Commission.

Equally noteworthy is his commitment to project delivery. For years, abandoned and delayed projects dotted the Niger Delta landscape, eroding public trust. Under his leadership, renewed attention was given to completing legacy projects, ensuring that communities began to experience the long-promised dividends of development. Roads, educational facilities, and community infrastructure, once left in limbo, began to take shape, reflecting a results-driven approach.

Human capital development has also featured prominently in his agenda. Understanding that infrastructure alone cannot transform a region, Dr Ogbuku championed initiatives to empower youth and build capacity. Skills acquisition programmes, educational support schemes, and partnerships designed to enhance employability became critical tools in addressing unemployment and restiveness in the region.

Another hallmark of the Dr Samuel Ogbuku Way is stakeholder engagement. The Niger Delta is a mosaic of communities, interests, and expectations. Navigating this complexity requires listening and collaboration. His leadership fostered closer relationships with state governments, traditional institutions, and community leaders, ensuring that development initiatives were better aligned with local needs.
Resilience, too, has defined his journey. Leading an institution as scrutinised as the NDDC comes with intense pressure and competing narratives. Yet, through criticism and challenges, he maintained focus, demonstrating that steady, principled leadership often speaks louder than rhetoric.

Integrity remains central to his legacy. In an environment where public institutions are frequently questioned, his insistence on due process and ethical governance helped rebuild confidence in the Commission. It reinforced the idea that public service, when approached with sincerity, can still command respect and deliver impact.

Ultimately, the Dr Samuel Ogbuku Way is about redefining leadership in public institutions. It is about shifting from promises to performance, from excuses to ex*****on, and from fragmentation to coordination.

During the inauguration of the Planning Committee for the National Youth Congress at the State House in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu acknowledged “The Dr Samuel Ogbuku Way,” praising him for his good work in driving development in the Niger Delta region.

As the Niger Delta continues its journey toward sustainable development, the lessons from his leadership offer a compelling blueprint. They remind us that transformation is possible when leadership is guided by purpose, strengthened by integrity, and measured by impact.
In telling this story, one is not merely highlighting one man’s achievements; it is illuminating a pathway for others to follow.

That is the essence of the Dr Samuel Ogbuku Way.

Martins Ibigomie Ogolo
Public Affairs Analyst
[email protected]

27/05/2026

*GOODWILL MESSAGE BY PROF. OWUNARI ABRAHAM GEORGEWILL, VICE-CHANCELLOR, UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT, TO THE MUSLIM COMMUNITY ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2026 EID-EL-KABIR CELEBRATION*

The University of Port Harcourt heartily felicitate with the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all our Muslim brothers and sisters across the nation, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

This sacred festival commemorates the profound faith and total submission of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to the will of Almighty God, as demonstrated in his willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to divine command. In His infinite mercy, God provided a ram for the sacrifice—an intervention that continues to symbolize faith, sacrifice, and devotion.

Eid-el-Kabir therefore serves as a reminder of the enduring values of obedience, sacrifice, humility, compassion, and selflessness, which are essential for peaceful coexistence and national development.

As we join in celebrating this important festival, we encourage all members of our University community to continue to uphold the spirit of mutual respect, harmony, and compassion which the occasion symbolizes. Let us remain committed to building a University environment anchored on peace, excellence, inclusiveness, and shared humanity.

We commend the Muslim community of the University of Port Harcourt for their contributions to scholarship, and service to our academic community.

May this Eid-el-Kabir celebration bring renewed joy, peace, divine blessings, and abundant prosperity to you and your families.

May Almighty God continue to guide and protect us all and grant our nation, Nigeria an enduring peace and progress.

Barka da Sallah!

*Prof. Owunari A. Georgewill*, KSC, FRSB, FWASOT, FECRMI, FFS, FIIA, FWASOP, FIARSA, FIHSC, FFA, DFCIHTMA
Vice-Chancellor
27th May, 2026

22/05/2026

RIVERS STATE APC CHAIRMAN CONGRATULATES RT. HON. OGUNDU KINGSLEY CHINDA ON HIS EMERGENCE AS THE RIVERS STATE APC GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE

On behalf of the leadership and teeming members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Rivers State, I heartily congratulate Rt. Hon. Ogundu Kingsley Chinda on his emergence as the Governorship Flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State through a consensus arrangement ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

His emergence is a clear reflection of unity, maturity, and the collective resolve of our great party and stakeholders to present a credible, experienced, and people-oriented leader who possesses the capacity to effectively steer the affairs of Rivers State toward greater prosperity, peace, and development.

I specially commend His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Alabo Dax George Kelly, and Arch. Tonye Cole for their exemplary display of statesmanship, patriotism, and sacrifice in withdrawing from the governorship race in the overall interest of unity, peace, and political stability in Rivers State. Their actions have further demonstrated their commitment to the progress and advancement of our dear state above personal ambitions.

I also profoundly commend the Leader of the Rainbow Coalition in Rivers State and the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), His Excellency, Chief Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike CON, for his fatherly role, political wisdom, and untiring efforts in ensuring a united and peaceful political atmosphere in Rivers State. His leadership and commitment to political stability continue to serve as a strong pillar for the growth of democracy and good governance in our state.

Furthermore, I commend the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his tireless efforts and unwavering commitment toward ensuring that democracy continues to thrive in Nigeria.

I express total confidence in the ability, competence, and leadership capacity of Rt. Hon. Ogundu Kingsley Chinda to effectively manage the affairs of Rivers State and provide purposeful leadership that will positively impact the lives of our people.

I equally congratulate all our members that emerged as candidates of the party in the just concluded House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senatorial primary elections in the state. I urge all party faithful, supporters, and the good people of Rivers State to remain united, focused, and committed as we collectively work toward a greater future for our dear state.

Signed:

Hon. Chief Tony C. Okocha KSC, JP, DSSRS
Chairman,
All Progressives Congress (APC),
Rivers State.

May 22, 2026.

17/05/2026

In Retrospect: University of Port Harcourt Under Professor Owunari A. Georgewill

Within a five-year period, the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has witnessed substantial development under the tenure of Professor Owunari A. Georgewill as the 9th Vice Chancellor, particularly in renewable energy, with the commissioning of a 10.7 MW Solar Power Plant under the Energizing Education Programme, facilitating uninterrupted clean energy supply to critical areas and decreasing dependence on the national grid

In achieving academic expansion, the university established New Faculties, including Computing, Allied Health Sciences, and Media and Communications, alongside the maturation of the Faculty of Law

All classroom blocks in the institution were renovated with state-of-the-art facilities to boost academic excellence. The institution also paid particular attention to student hostels, refurbishing rooms and buildings and ensuring the provision of basic necessities like consistent water supply to enhance the overall campus experience

Strategically planned on expansion of Uniport academic structure for 2025–2035 Academic Brief focused on digitalization and STEM advancement, launched during its 50th-anniversary celebration

On-the-site evaluation by Dandy Loveday reveals Uniport has achieved a notable milestone in infrastructural development, characterized by the construction of modern administrative buildings, improved internal roadways, enhanced staff accommodation, revamped transportation system, state-of-the-art water treatment plant, and several other key projects.

By Professor Owunari Georgewill's initiative several students of Uniport enjoys academic scholarships from first year to last, reducing academic financial burdens on students while focusing more on their studies, hence, discouraging clandestine activities. Recorded zero students protest over management policies for five years, as he maintained students-management cordial relationship

UNIPORT maintains exceptional academic standards at both local and global levels, consistently earning full accreditation for its programs from the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC)

The institution sustained its reputation with World Bank-funded Africa Centres of Excellence (ACEs) in Public Health and Oilfield Chemicals.

14/05/2026

Response to Claims Linking Calls for Dr. Goodluck Jonathan's Candidacy to APC Sponsorship:

Recent suggestions that calls for former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR to contest the 2027 presidential election are orchestrated by the ruling APC to divide opposition votes are speculative and lack credible evidence. Such narratives often stem from a limited appreciation of the organic public sentiment that has surrounded Jonathan since 2015.

Since the APC assumed power in 2015, Nigerians from various regions, backgrounds, and political leanings have consistently urged Dr. Jonathan to return to the presidential race. This groundswell of support is not a recent or manufactured phenomenon driven by any ruling party strategy. Rather, it reflects genuine nostalgia, respect, and appreciation for his leadership style and tangible legacies.

Many Nigerians recall his administration’s notable achievements: significant investments in education through Almajiri schools in the North, special girls’ schools, new federal universities, and increased basic education enrolment; infrastructure gains including the Abuja-Kaduna railway, road projects, airport upgrades, and the initiation of major bridges like the Second Niger Bridge; the rebasing of Nigeria’s GDP, which positioned the country as Africa’s largest economy; improvements in electoral transparency, exemplified by the widely praised 2011 elections; and his historic, peaceful concession in 2015 that strengthened Nigeria’s democratic institutions. His peace initiatives in the Niger Delta, promotion of gender inclusion, and broader transformation agenda also left lasting impressions.

These positive memories, rather than any partisan manipulation, explain the continued public interest in his potential return. It is presumptuous and disrespectful to Dr. Jonathan’s integrity, and to the intelligence of Nigerian voters, to dismiss this widespread affection as a sponsored plot. As a citizen who has served his constitutional term, Dr. Jonathan retains the full right under the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to contest any election if he so chooses. Suggesting otherwise undermines the agency of the electorate and the democratic process.

In direct response to claims by social media personality VeryDarkMan and similar narratives alleging sponsorship or positioning by the current administration, Dr. Jonathan’s own recent remarks demonstrate his clear understanding of the complexities of Nigerian politics and affirm his independent agency. Dr. Jonathan is a leader of profound conviction and unassailable integrity; throughout his public life, he has acted on principle rather than partisan manipulation. The suggestion that he would serve as a proxy to weaken opposition votes insults both his character and the intelligence of the Nigerian electorate. He has never been, and will never be, anyone’s pawn. Addressing supporters urging him to contest, he stated:

“You are asking me to come and contest the next election. Presidential race is not a computer game. But I’ve heard you and I will consult widely.”

He further highlighted the realities of voter apathy, stressing the need for genuine participation:

“Nigeria has the lowest turnout of elections in every election cycle... We have the highest voter apathy... I have observed elections in over 14 countries, and Nigeria has one of the lowest voter turnouts. If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50% of you don’t have your voter’s card. And you’re asking me to go and contest the election. So you must participate in the electoral process.”

These measured, realistic statements quash notions of him being a passive proxy, showing instead a leader who listens to the people but approaches national decisions with caution, wide consultation, and emphasis on peace, credible elections, and civic responsibility.

Nigeria’s democracy is best served when discussions are based on facts, mutual respect, and national interest, rather than unverified conspiracy theories or attempts to discredit respected statesmen. The choice in 2027 ultimately belongs to the Nigerian people. Those who truly value democracy should focus on encouraging voter registration, acquisition of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and active, informed participation: principles that Dr. Jonathan himself has long advocated.

Hon Chief Mizodome Ibu
Former Chairman Ogbia Local Government Council.

22/04/2026

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku MD/CEO NDDC pays courtesy visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at A*o Rock, to brief him on the affairs of the Niger Delta Region.

Sphere Watch

14/06/2026

14/06/2026

12/06/2026

12/06/2026

27/05/2026

27/05/2026

22/05/2026

17/05/2026

14/05/2026

22/04/2026

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