NigerDelta Post Newspaper (2025)

20/08/2025

THE FRIENDSHIP THAT CUTS ACROSS ALL CLASSES

Many politicians are seen from a distance, but Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon stands as a refreshing exception. Representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, he has become more than a legislator, he has proven himself a reliable companion, a constant presence, and a friend to all, regardless of background, belief, or affiliation.

Ime Okon has earned his place in the hearts of many because of his rare ability to engage people from different walks of life, different political leanings, and across religious or socioeconomic divides. He is not one to ask, "Are you in my camp?" before he renders help. He does not care about your background when you reach out in need. He has a consistent track record of treating everyone with respect, from elders in our villages to young men on the street corners.

This is not hearsay. This is reality. Many of us can point to moments, quiet and unsung, where Hon. Ime Okon stepped into situations that didn’t make the headlines but changed lives.

One can not overemphasize how rare it is to have a representative who picks up calls from constituents, not only during elections but even now when the cameras are off. Ime Okon listens. He consults. He knows how to return to his roots. Above all, his responses inspire.

The empowerment schemes he has championed so far have not been party biased. His educational support programs do not ask for a political allegiance before a name is considered.

For some politicians, “friendship” is a convenient political phrase, but for Ime Okon, it is a way of life. He relates warmly with his people at functions, checks on the sick, attends family engagements and weddings, etc, not as a VIP but as one of us, often standing shoulder to shoulder.

His humility doesn’t reduce his influence. It increases his value.

Beyond politics, into humanity, he has demonstrated that humanity is not a party thing. It’s a character thing. And in that character, we see a man we can trust, a friend we can count on, and a leader who understands what it means to walk with the people, not above them.

Ime Okon may not be perfect. No leader is. But in the many ways that matter, he has proven himself a friend to all. As a constituent, I believe that when the history of this era is written, it will be said of him that he led with heart, walked in humility, and gave himself to the people, all the people.
And for that, we're proud to call him a Friend.

©️ Ukobot Idongesit

06/07/2025

GOVERNOR ENO BOLD MARCH AGAINST UNEMPLOYMENT

By Ekerette John Umanah

The streets of uyo and the entire Akwa Ibom have been filled with joy following the recent announcement by Governor Umo Eno to recruit 3,000 indigenes of Akwa Ibom State into the public service, this bold and strategic policy speaks directly to one of the most pressing issues affecting the youth population which is unemployment. From the onset of his administration, Governor Eno was unequivocal in his commitment to tackling joblessness as a means of restoring dignity to the lives of young people and ensuring sustainable development. This recruitment drive is therefore not only a fulfilment of that promise but also a reflection of the broader economic vision of the governor under the ARISE Agenda.

Employment has long been recognized as one of the core indicators of economic development and the ability of a government to absorb its citizens particularly its youthful population into productive ventures is central to any serious development strategy. By employing 3,000 new workers, the governor is sending a clear signal that his administration is intentional about inclusive growth and youth empowerment. These new employees will no longer be part of the unengaged pool of job seekers but will become contributors to the growth of the State, active participants in governance and channels for implementing government policies in real time.

The breakdown of the recruitment is equally strategic. 1,000 of these new intakes will be absorbed into the health sector while another 1,000 will be absorbed into the teaching workforce and the remaining 1,000 will be in the mainstream civil service. This reflects a deliberate targeting of critical areas of human development, health and education while also strengthening the bureaucratic backbone of the State. Such thoughtful distribution will not only addresses manpower shortages revealed during the recent staff verification exercise but ensures that essential services are better delivered across the State.

What Governor Umo Eno is doing goes beyond numbers. He is laying a framework for long term institutional efficiency that would boost morale within the system and make the civil service more responsive to the evolving needs of the people. The recruitment comes at a time when many young graduates are roaming the streets burdened by a lack of opportunity and growing frustration. For many families, this announcement goes farther than just employment news to being a beacon of hope and signal that their sacrifices in educating their children have not been in vain.
Most importantly, this mass recruitment does not stand in isolation but aligns with the ongoing efforts of the governor to build human capacity through the ARISE Agenda which is a policy framework designed to promote training in ICT, agriculture and artisanship. These programmes have already laid a strong foundation by equipping young people with the skills they need to become employable or self sufficient. Now the government is going a step further by providing direct employment opportunities that will help solidify those gains and give the beneficiaries a chance to apply their training in practical and meaningful ways. It is a seamless connection between policy, training and employment and an integrated approach that is rare in public administration.
What makes this effort even more laudable is that it is not being pursued at the expense of those already in the public service. Governor Eno has shown a rare understanding that real development must be holistic. He has taken active steps to improve the welfare of civil servants from providing accommodation and capacity building workshops to registering over 8,000 workers under the ARISE Health Insurance Scheme, payment of 80,000 naira minimum wage, payment of over 75 billion naira to retirees etc. His recognition and reward of excellence through cash prizes of One Million Naira to outstanding workers, release of 2024 promotions, payment of entitlements, gratuities, wardrobe allowances for teachers and even special promotions all paint a picture of a leadership that values its workforce and sees them as partners in progress.
This level of deliberate attention to the workforce is reshaping public service culture in Akwa Ibom State. For the first time in many years, public servants feel seen, heard and appreciated. They are motivated to give their best knowing that excellence is not only recognized but rewarded. This goes a long way to improve service delivery, boosts productivity and builds institutional loyalty.

The generosity of the governor also extends beyond the regular workforce. National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving in the State have also been carried along in this new wave of support. His announcement of an increase in their monthly allowances from 5,000 Naira to 20,000 Naira beginning from August is a clear demonstration of his belief in their relevance and his commitment to encouraging their continued contributions to sectors such as education, healthcare and rural development. By topping the 77,000 Naira monthly stipend paid by the Federal Government, the State government is showing appreciation and providing motivation for these young Nigerians to give their best while serving in Akwa Ibom.
This significant leap in youth focused policy is a testament to the understanding of the governor that employment is not just an economic activity but is also a social contract. A society that does not empower its youths is sowing seeds of instability, hopelessness and decay. But Governor Umo Eno is charting a different course that prioritizes human capital, economic inclusion and sustainable growth.
All of these initiatives underscore his belief that people are the greatest assets of any government. By focusing on employment and welfare, the governor is building a legacy that will outlast his tenure. He is not just taking young people off the streets but he is also restoring their hope, strengthening public institutions and laying the groundwork for a more robust economy. What he has done in two years is a lesson in purposeful governance and a roadmap that other leaders can emulate if they are truly committed to development.
In a time when many political leaders pay lip service to youth empowerment and economic development, the actions of Governor Umo Emo stands out as a deliberate and measurable steps toward reduction of unemployment, enhancement of productivity and motivation of the workforce which make him a model of pragmatic and compassionate leadership. Akwa Ibom is indeed on a transformative path where every citizen can look to the future with a renewed sense of purpose, dignity and opportunity.

-Ekerette Umanah is a Public Policy Expert.

05/07/2025

'WORKING WITH MY MOTHER PREPARED ME FOR LEADERSHIP' - LADY HELEN OBAREKI

Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, has attributed her successes in office to the many lessons she learnt while serving as Personal Assistant to her mother, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

Lady Obareki who stated this on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the MORE Leadership Academy's Mid Year Retreat and Graduation Ceremony, which held at the Ibom-LED Centre, Uyo, described the loss of her mother as the most uncertain occurrence in her life, one that threw her into a position she never expected but was prepared for.

Speaking on the theme 'Start Now: Prepare to Conquer the Uncertainties of the Future’, the First Lady Designate recalled that even though her announcement as Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady came as a shock, she had built the needed capacity through experience and learning over the years to function in the position.

She further encouraged participants at the event not to view life's uncertainties as setbacks but as an opportunity to create their desired future.

"Being my mother's Personal Assistant was a learning curve for me. It was those moments that prepared me for where I am today. Everything that she taught me that I argued with and we fought about are the things I am grateful for now.

"Dwelling on your past or where you are currently, ensures that you are going to miss what the future brings. It is important to understand that uncertainty is not your enemy. As a matter of fact, the fact that the future is uncertain gives you a blank canvas so that you will be able to paint whatever greatness it is that you desire," she stated.

Delivering a lecture at the event, Pastor Femi Lazarus noted that leadership is not about perception but about the person, values, choices and character; also, that understanding the true essence of leadership is the starting point for any meaningful transformation.

Pastor Lazarus stated that it is a collective responsibility to
raise, equip and release leaders who will function with wisdom and purpose, the kind that will transform and serve as blessing to the nation.

He charged the graduating students to go beyond being leaders by certificate, to being grounded in character, integrity and intentionally rooted in values and responsibility.

While conducting the induction of graduands into the Academy, the Chancellor, Barr. Morgan Ekanem charged them to go out and make a difference and never to fail their generation.

Barr. Ekanem encouraged them to become successful, not only in material things, but be carriers of solutions and stand as positive examples in their families and communities.

Media Unit
Office of the First Lady, AKS
July 5, 2025

05/07/2025

𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘋𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘔𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: 𝗜𝗺𝗲 𝗢𝗸𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝘃 𝗘𝗻𝗼’𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆, 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲

••• 𝙇𝙖𝙪𝙙𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙘𝙪𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙄𝙩𝙖𝙢 𝙄𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙟𝙤𝙗 𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣

The member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, has hailed Governor Umo Eno for his commitment to development and transparency in governance.

Obong Okon, who is the Deputy Chairman of Inter-Governmental Affairs in the Green chamber, gave the commendation in a statement released by his media office following the conclusion of the two-day Project Delivery Meeting held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo.

The meeting, which ended on Friday, July 4, was convened by the Governor to assess the status of 42 priority projects across various sectors of the state, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture, among others.

According to the federal lawmaker, who recently moved with the Governor to the APC, Pastor Umo Eno's leadership style is deliberate, data-driven, and people-focused. He added that Akwa Ibom is fortunate to have a leader who not only initiates projects but also follows through to ensure results.

Part of the statement read, “The Project Delivery Meeting was far from a routine event, it sent a strong message that our leader is focused and deliberate. Every project, timeline, and agency came under review. That level of thoroughness is what drives real development. For the Governor to sit through hours of presentations, personally engage MDAs, and demand timelines, speaks volumes about his commitment.”

The former Transition Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Local Government and two-time member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, particularly commended the approval granted during the meeting for urgent infrastructure work at the Itam Industrial Park, which falls within his constituency, saying it would unlock economic growth and create jobs for the people of Itu and Ibiono Ibom.

“We are encouraged that His Excellency understands the economic value of that corridor. Industrial growth is key to job creation, and we thank him for prioritising that,” he said.

While reflecting on other outcomes of the meeting, Hon. Okon described the announcement of N20,000 monthly allowance for corps members posted to the state as a welcome gesture that will improve the welfare of young Nigerians serving in Akwa Ibom.

He also praised the Governor’s directive for the Ministry of Education to develop refresher training for teachers during the long vacation period, describing it as a thoughtful way to enhance classroom delivery when schools resume.

“The Governor has carried every sector along. From the Sports Academy in Eket to the Senior Citizens Centre, the Judiciary Quarters, Maritime Transport, One Project Per LGA , every part of the state is touched. That is what governance should look like,” the statement added.

The legal practitioner and member of several House Committees at the National Assembly used the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to continually support the ARISE Agenda by partnering with the Governor to bring federal presence and dividends of democracy to his constituents.

“I’m committed to supporting Governor Eno’s ARISE Agenda and the Renewed Hope of Mr. President. Their approach to service delivery is what we have adopted, and to the glory of God, our constituents have rated us highly in our midterm report. By God's grace, the days ahead will witness even greater impact on our people, because they elected us to represent them, and never will we fail them,” the statement concluded.

05/07/2025

Governor Umo Eno Arrives Benin City for APC South-South Stakeholders Meeting

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, has arrived in Benin City, Edo State, to participate in the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Stakeholders Meeting.

Governor Eno was warmly received by the host Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo; the APC National Vice Chairman (South-South), Hon. Chief Victor Giadom; and the Akwa Ibom State APC Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo.

The meeting, which brings together key leaders from the South-South geopolitical zone, is expected to address critical issues affecting the region and the party's strategies ahead of future political engagements.

04/07/2025

Rep. Ime Okon Celebrates Ubong Nkutt on His Birthday

The Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, has extended heartfelt birthday wishes to the Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Council, Hon. Ubong Wilson Nkutt, describing him as “a dear brother and trusted friend.”

In a message of felicitation, Rep. Ime Okon praised the leadership style of the Council Chairman, commending his dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment to grassroots development and the overall progress of Itu Local Government Area.

“Your leadership as Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Council has been marked by dedication, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of our people. I am proud of the work you’re doing and the impact you continue to make,” the lawmaker said.

He prayed for God’s continuous wisdom, strength, and favour upon the chairman as he continues to serve, expressing optimism that the new year will bring even greater milestones for the celebrant.

“May this new year bring you more wisdom, strength, and divine favour as you continue to serve with excellence,” he added.

29/06/2025

Daniel Ademinokan Opens Up on Split with Stella Damasus, Alleges Mistreatment of His son.

Nigerian filmmaker Daniel Ademinokan, the ex-husband of Nollywood actress Stella Damasus, has broken his silence on the reasons behind their failed marriage. In a recent revelation, Ademinokan accused Damasus of mistreating his son during their time together, suggesting this played a major role in the collapse of their union. The filmmaker's claims have sparked renewed attention and conversation around the high-profile breakup, with many awaiting a response from Damasus regarding the serious allegations.

28/06/2025

𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗿 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗥𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗰? 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗺𝗲 𝗢𝗸𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝘁𝘂/𝗜𝗯𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗼 𝗜𝗯𝗼𝗺

In 𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘴 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘢 (with due respect to The Boss, Akparawa Michael BUSH), effective representation is not just about speaking big grammar on the floor of the House. It’s about impact. It’s about what constituents can point at and say, “Yes, this is our own.”

Of course, the constitution may say lawmakers are to make laws, do oversight, and represent the people, but, the average Nigerian doesn’t follow their representatives to plenary. What matters most to them is the 'empowerment.' They want to feel government in their pockets. They want money. Some are looking for roads, others want to see their schools renovated, they desire jobs; tangible proof that their votes counted for something.

However, it is this blend of legislative responsibility (in politics Nigeriana) and grassroots touch that separates the real performers from the noise makers. And in the case of Hon. (Barr.) Ime Bassey Okon, of Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, that balance isn’t just visible, it’s impressive. From the green chamber in Abuja to the villages and communities of Itu/ Ibiono Ibom, he has shown that he didn’t just carry his wig and gown as a Barrister and Solicitor of the supreme Court of Nigeria to the House of Reps to speak plenty grammar. He went there with a mission; that is, a heart for his people, and a clear focus on impact.

Now, two years into his tenure as a Federal lawmaker, this calm, accessible and humble lawyer has quietly offered his constituents a quality, effective and effectual representation. Whether you judge him by the bills and motions he has sponsored, or by the tangible projects already springing up across Itu and Ibiono Ibom, one thing is certain, Hon. Ime Okon 'no carry last'. He is indeed working and lobbying hard for his constituents.

At a recent media chat in Uyo, Okon laid bare his scorecard, and many were left with their mouth opened in awe. First thing, he technically addressed one of the biggest misconceptions flying around: that lawmakers were handed ₦1 billion each in cash for constituency projects. That, he clarified, is false. What actually happened, according to him, is that for the first time, each constituency was allowed to nominate projects worth ₦1 billion in the 2025 budget, an upgrade from the usual ₦200 million. And even at that, he revealed that, lawmakers don’t touch the money. It is the various ministries, departments and agencies that handle ex*****on.

That clarification was important, but what came after was mind-blowing. Despite being a first-term lawmaker and not a chairman of any committee, which often gives others an advantage, Ime Okon was able to attract over ₦1.7 billion worth of projects from the 2024 budget alone. That is more than eight times the usual limit. He explained how he had to move from one ministry to another, follow up files, meet officials, and make sure his people were not left behind. It was not for self aggrandizement, not at all, but about commitment.

Ime Okon’s midterm scorecard reads like a mini compendium on grassroots development. It’s the kind of report card you bring home when you know you've been doing your homework quietly but thoroughly.

In Itu LGA, he facilitated the construction of Joshua Uwah Street with full drainage and street lights, solar-powered boreholes in Afaha Itam, classroom blocks at North Itam, and a six-classroom facility at the Technical College, Ayadeghe. In Ibiono Ibom, projects include solar lights in multiple villages communities, and wards, civic centres at Idoro and Nkwa, as well as the donation of modern water pumping equipment.

That's not all. He facilitated scholarships and bursaries to over 300 students, including ₦200,000 apiece to 18 Law School students. His interventions in youth training span vocational tools such as digital vulcanising machines and auto-gas conversion training.

On welfare, Okon distributed four vehicles (including an SUV) and gave financial support to over 800 constituents, including rent, medical bills, school fees, and subsistence allowances regularly. Some constituents have been employed in the UUTH, the Police, Fire Service, and State Civil Service, with more to come. Even families of fallen heroes were not left out. He donated ₦500,000 to support widows in setting up cooperative schemes.

Just when many thought he had wrapped up his rounds of effective representation for the year, Obong Okon dropped yet another surprise of capital empowerment of his constituents billed for the last quarter of this year. And if past outings are anything to go by, then trust the 'Utenghe Ibiono Ibom' to go all out. This one, we hear, will be massive and it's designed to touch real lives across Itu and Ibiono Ibom. The orphans, widows, the youths, the elders, the women hustling with small businesses, the ones with big dreams but little means; the empowerment programme is for them. From vocational tools to start-up grants and business support, everything is being planned to reach those who truly need it most. Four months from now, that massive event might just be another reason why constituents will keep saying: God bless Hon. Ime Okon.

Interestingly, when it comes to politics, Hon. Ime Okon is a movement. He enjoys a cult-like followership that cuts across villages, wards and clans in Itu and Ibiono Ibom because of his rare humility, his open-door style, and how he treats everyone, from the cleaner to the top executive, with equal respect. It’s this genuine connection with the people that made his recent political alignment even more symbolic. Standing with the current political direction of the State, Ime Okon has moved to the APC, where he is now a card-carrying member and pledged to work with other leaders of the party in Itu/Ibiono Ibom to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno, beyond 2027.

For now, if just two years could be this impactful, one can only imagine what a full term, or even a second term, might deliver on this rock-solid foundation.

Gladly, even yesterday’s cynics are beginning to agree with what the people have long seen, that Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency is indeed reaping the dividends of quality, people-centric and effective representation under the calm and competent leadership of Hon. (Obong) Barr. Ime Bassey Okon.

©️ Henshaw Nyong

28/06/2025

WHY APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN GANDUJE RESIGNED

Punch reports

Details have emerged on why the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje, may have resigned from his position on Friday.

Saturday PUNCH reliably gathered that Ganduje quit his position over the reported move by former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to join the APC.

As early as 3pm on Friday, insiders at the national secretariat of the party informed our correspondent that the ex-national leader was threatening to resign over an agreement between President Bola Tinubu and Kwankwaso for the latter to join the party.

According to an insider, all the principal officers of the party, including the National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, had tried to prevail on him not to resign.

“We are currently pleading with him (Ganduje) not to resign. He is upset that Kwankwaso is coming to the APC. I think the two of them are sworn enemies. All the stakeholders are begging him to stay,” the source said.

However, around 4.15pm, the source informed one of our correspondents that Ganduje had resigned.

“He has eventually resigned. We couldn’t stop him. I think there is something personal between him and Kwankwaso, who is ready to join the APC after some discussions with the President,” the source added.

When asked to confirm if there was a crisis at the APC secretariat, a worker, said, “There is no crisis, just that the chairman has resigned and people gathered at the secretariat to discuss about it.”

Political rivals

Both Ganduje and Kwankwaso are former governors of Kano and were once political allies during their days in the Peoples Democratic Party.

Kwankwaso served as governor from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2011 to 2015, with Ganduje as his deputy during the second term.

However, their relationship deteriorated shortly after Ganduje succeeded Kwankwaso as governor in 2015 under the APC.

Since then, the two have become political rivals, frequently clashing over control of Kano’s political structure and influence.

Ganduje deposed the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, who was installed by and believed to be loyal to Kwankwaso.

But Sanusi was reinstated on May 23, 2024, by Governor Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, under Kwankwaso’s leadership.

Saturday PUNCH gathered that Ganduje, who was elected APC National Chairman in August 2023, cited health grounds as the reason for his decision to quit the party.
When contacted to confirm Kwankwaso’s move to join the APC, one of his closest allies, Buba Galadima, said he was not aware of such a plan.

He, however, said he was privy to a meeting involving some APC stakeholders and the presidency to “sacrifice Ganduje and the Vice President, Kashim Shettima.”

Galadima said, “I am not aware of the defection plan. However, I know Kwankwaso and Ganduje have personal issues. I am equally aware that there was a meeting of APC stakeholders and the presidency three days ago where they agreed that Ganduje and Shettima should be sacrificed to bring a new set of people into government and the party.”

Similarly, the spokesperson for the NNPP, Ladipo Johnson, declined to comment.

“I am not aware of such a move, and I can’t speak further on it for now,” he stated.

In a post on his X handle, one of Ganduje’s aides, Salihu Yakasai, operating account, wrote in all cap, “TINUBU WHY, APC WHY,” with three cry emojis.

A former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, also confirmed that Ganduje had resigned.

Ahmad, on his verified page, wrote, “The National Chairman of our great party, the All Progressives Congress(APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has resigned from his position, effective immediately, as confirmed by multiple sources.”

When Saturday PUNCH visited the APC National Headquarters in Abuja, several party supporters were seen gathered in clusters, discussing the development and awaiting official confirmation from the NWC.

Dalori as acting chair

Meanwhile, the APC is set to announce the party’s Deputy Chairman (North), Ali Dalori, as the Acting National Chairman following Ganduje’s resignation.

A source said, “Some APC leaders met at the Presidential Villa, where Ali Dalori was announced as the acting National Chairman, in accordance with the party’s constitution.

“According to the constitution, when the Chairman resigns, the Deputy Chairman from his zone in this case, the Deputy Chairman (North) assumes the position in an acting capacity.”

When one of our correspondents visited the APC National Headquarters in Abuja, some party supporters were seen gathered in clusters, discussing the development and awaiting official confirmation from the National Working Committee.

Attempts to reach the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, for confirmation or denial were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls from Saturday PUNCH.

26/06/2025

On Gov Umo Eno’s Proposed Sports Festival

By Ekemini James

There is something deeply spiritual about recognizing the gifts God has deposited in others and creating room for those gifts to flourish. That is what I see in the heart of Governor Umo Eno. Under his leadership, sport has become a platform for divine potential to find expression.

Aside from the fact that sport is one of the thematic areas of Governor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda, his commitment to developing sports in the last two years has been remarkable.

Through strategic investments and initiatives, he has created an environment that nurtures talent, promotes excellence, and inspires a new generation of athletes.

On June 25, 2025, Governor Umo Eno, recieved two Akwa Ibom’s stars - Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong and Olympian Idara Otu, where he unfolded another dimension of his vision: the Akwa Ibom Sports Festival..

Inside the classy surroundings of the Governor's Lodge stood the gallant captain of Nigeria’s national football team and the sprinter who has flown the nation's flag across global tracks.

It was a recognition and a reminder that talent must be celebrated, not only at the peak but also at the root. For until a people learn to value their own, they will remain beggars at the table of global excellence.

In Governor Umo Eno's words and actions, one could discern the heart of a leader who understands that development is holistic.

For him, a nation, or a state, does not rise solely on the strength of its infrastructure, but also on the strength of its people, especially its youth.

As the Governor always acknowledged, sports, is one of the most effective instruments for channeling youthful energy into productive adventure.

His announcement of the forthcoming Sports Festival is a strategic move. A calculated step towards cultivating a sporting culture and ecosystem that will outlive his tenure.

With the upcoming sports academy and the well-thought-out infrastructure at the ARISE Resort, Akwa Ibom is being positioned not merely as a venue for hosting events, but as a factory for birthing legends.

Imagine a child from Etim Ekpo, Ibeno, or Ini, rising through these systems, nurtured by coaches, supported by the state, and someday standing on Olympic podiums while the Nigerian anthem plays.

That a sitting Governor would take time to honour athletes, not just when they win, but while they strive, is a mark of wisdom. That is the heart of a father. That is the heart of a builder.

When a leader pours value into others, he multiplies value across the system.

As a wise woman builds her home, so does a wise leader build his people. Pastor Umo Eno is doing just that.

I see the sports festival as a movement, a movement towards excellence, a movement away from idleness, a movement that will birth role models for generations to come.

NigerDelta Post Newspaper

20/08/2025

06/07/2025

05/07/2025

05/07/2025

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