https://www.facebook.com/103733651150105/

Ovwian Community Magazine, 101 off ovwian Road, Warri (2026)

09/08/2026

🎉 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMB. AUSTIN ORUMA 🎉

Celebrating Amb. Austin Oruma, the Deputy Traditional Prime Minister of Ovwian Community, Udu.

May your new year be filled with good health, wisdom, peace, and greater accomplishments. May your service to the community continue to bring honour and positive impact.

Happy Birthday, Your Royal Highness!
Wishing you many more prosperous years ahead. 🥂🎂

08/08/2026

Happy Birthday, Olorogun Amb Michael Edema!

On this special day, I join the entire Ovwian Community in celebrating your remarkable leadership and unwavering dedication to our development. As the Vice President General of Ovwian, Chairman of the Employment Committee, and Chairman of the Security Committee, you have consistently shown passion, vision, and a deep sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of our people.

Your contributions to our community continue to inspire us all, and your tireless efforts in creating opportunities and ensuring security have been a beacon of hope for many. May this new year bring you even greater strength, wisdom, and fulfillment in all your endeavors.

Here’s wishing you many more years of success, happiness, and good health. Happy birthday, Olorogun, and may your leadership continue to guide Ovwian towards a brighter future!

30/07/2026

‎Chief Oris Sotu Celebrates Urhobo Cultural Heritage with Grand Ancestral Prayer Ceremony in Ekreghweroro Quarter
‎
‎By Michael Kelly O. Golohor
‎
‎EKREGHWERORO, OVWIAN COMMUNITY, UDU LGA, DELTA STATE – July 30, 2026
‎
‎The tranquil Ekreghweroro Quarter in Ovwian Community, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, came alive on Thursday as renowned community leader, philanthropist, and newly inducted member of the Ovwian Council of Headers, Chief Oris Sotu, popularly known as Akubaro, hosted a colourful ancestral prayer ceremony in honour of his late father and forefathers in accordance with the rich customs and traditions of the Urhobo people.
‎
‎The event attracted an impressive gathering of traditional rulers, members of the Ovwian Council of Headers, chiefs, elders, chief priests, youth leaders, family members, friends, and well-wishers who converged to celebrate a significant cultural and spiritual occasion that reaffirmed the importance of preserving Urhobo heritage.
‎
‎The atmosphere was vibrant with cultural displays as traditional music, energetic dances, rhythmic drumming, and sacred ceremonial rites entertained guests while showcasing the rich cultural identity and enduring traditions of the Urhobo nation. The ceremony reflected the deep respect accorded to ancestors within Urhobo culture and underscored the community's commitment to preserving its indigenous values for future generations.
‎
‎Speaking during the event, Chief Oris Sotu explained that the ancestral prayer ceremony was organized to fulfil an important family obligation by offering prayers and symbolic traditional meals to his late father and forefathers, a sacred practice that has been handed down through generations among the Urhobo people.
‎
‎According to him, remembering and honouring one's ancestors remains a fundamental aspect of Urhobo tradition, as it symbolizes gratitude, continuity, spiritual guidance, and respect for family lineage.
‎
‎Today is a day of remembrance, gratitude, and thanksgiving. I have come to honour my late father and our forefathers in accordance with the customs and traditions of our people. Our heritage teaches us never to forget those who laid the foundation upon which we stand today. Their sacrifices, wisdom, and legacy continue to guide and strengthen us. I pray for peace, unity, divine protection, and continuous progress for my family and the entire Ovwian Community," Chief Oris Sotu said.
‎
‎The ceremony came barely twenty-four hours after Chief Oris Sotu was formally inducted into the Ovwian Council of Headers on July 29, 2026. His elevation into the prestigious traditional institution was in recognition of his outstanding contributions to community development, philanthropy, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to promoting peace, unity, and sustainable progress within Ovwian Community.
‎
‎Community leaders who spoke during the event described Chief Oris Sotu as a humble, compassionate, and visionary son of Ovwian whose dedication to the welfare of the people and unwavering respect for Urhobo customs have earned him widespread admiration.
‎
‎They congratulated him on his recent induction into the Council of Headers and commended his consistent efforts in fostering communal harmony, supporting developmental initiatives, and preserving the cultural heritage of the Urhobo people.
‎
‎The colourful celebration concluded with special prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity in Ovwian Community, goodwill messages from distinguished guests, cultural performances, entertainment, and the sharing of traditional hospitality among attendees.
‎
‎The successful ancestral prayer ceremony not only celebrated the life and memory of Chief Oris Sotu's forefathers but also served as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of cultural preservation, respect for tradition, and communal solidarity. It further reinforced the values of unity, identity, and continuity that remain the cornerstone of the Urhobo people and the wider Ovwian Community.

30/07/2026

‎A New Era Begins as Double Chief P. D. Egbeta Takes the Helm of Ovwian Council of Elders
‎
‎By Michael Kelly Golohor
‎
‎OVWIAN, Udu LGA, Delta State – The Ovwian Community has ushered in a new chapter in its traditional leadership following the successful inauguration of Double Chief P. D. Egbeta as the new Chairman of the Ovwian Council of Elders, succeeding Chief Williams Sarhiki, whose remarkable five-year tenure came to a successful conclusion.
‎
‎The colourful inauguration ceremony, held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the Ovwian Council of Elders Hall in Ovwian, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, drew an impressive gathering of traditional rulers, former community leaders, respected chiefs, elders, youth representatives, and other distinguished sons and daughters of Ovwian.
‎
‎The peaceful transition of leadership was widely applauded as another demonstration of the unity, stability, and democratic values that have continued to strengthen the Ovwian Community.
‎
‎The newly constituted executive of the Ovwian Council of Elders comprises:
‎
‎- Double Chief P. D. Egbeta – Chairman
‎- Sir Chief Moses Uparan, KSM – Vice Chairman
‎- Mr. William Oghi – Secretary
‎- Sir Chief L. A. Oghoifo, KSM – Assistant Secretary
‎- Chief D. S. Oye – Treasurer
‎- Mr. Power Aye – Financial Secretary
‎
‎
‎Addressing journalists shortly after taking the oath of office, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Double Chief P. D. Egbeta, expressed profound appreciation to members of the Council for the confidence reposed in him.
‎
‎He assured the people of Ovwian that his administration would be anchored on unity, transparency, peace, respect for tradition, and sustainable community development.
‎
‎"I sincerely appreciate the confidence and trust placed in me by the Council. I am fully prepared to serve with humility, dedication, and integrity. With my experience as the former Vice Chairman of the Union of Udu Communities (UUC), I have gained valuable leadership experience that will help me lead the Ovwian Council of Elders to greater heights. Together, we shall continue to protect our rich cultural heritage while promoting peace, unity, and development across our community," he said.
‎
‎Chief Egbeta further pledged to work harmoniously with all stakeholders, including traditional institutions, youth organizations, women groups, and community leaders, to ensure continued progress and stability in Ovwian.
‎
‎The new Chairman paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Chief Williams Sarhiki, applauding his dedication, wisdom, and selfless service throughout his five-year administration.
‎
‎He acknowledged that the outgoing Chairman had laid a solid foundation upon which the new leadership would continue to build for the benefit of future generations.
‎
‎Community leaders and guests at the ceremony also commended Chief Sarhiki for his commitment to preserving the customs, traditions, and unity of the Ovwian people during his tenure.
‎
‎The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of former presidents-general, respected traditional chiefs, members of the Council of Elders, community executives, political leaders, religious leaders, youth representatives, and several prominent sons and daughters of Ovwian Community.
‎
‎Many described the event as historic and expressed optimism that the new executive would strengthen the traditional institution, promote peaceful coexistence, and provide sound leadership for the continued advancement of Ovwian Community.
‎
‎The emergence of Double Chief P. D. Egbeta as Chairman marks the beginning of a fresh era for the Ovwian Council of Elders. Expectations are high that the new leadership will consolidate on past achievements, deepen unity among the people, preserve the community's cherished cultural values, and provide wise counsel that will drive the growth and prosperity of Ovwian Community for years to come.

29/07/2026

COMMUNITY HONOURS DISTINGUISHED SON: Chief Oris Sotu Inducted into Ovwian Elders Council
‎
‎By Michael Kelly Golohor
‎
‎Ovwian Community, Udu Local Government Area | July 29, 2026
‎
‎In a ceremony marked by honour, dignity, and appreciation for outstanding community service, Chief Oris Sotu, popularly known as "Akubaro," was formally inducted into the Ovwian Elders Council on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
‎
‎The colourful event attracted respected elders, traditional leaders, and prominent members of the community who gathered to witness the official welcome of a man widely celebrated for his unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and development of Ovwian Community.
‎
‎Chief Oris Sotu's elevation to the Ovwian Elders Council was not merely a ceremonial appointment but a recognition of decades of selfless service, philanthropy, and his consistent dedication to community advancement. Many attendees described his induction as a well-deserved honour for a man whose contributions have positively impacted countless lives within Ovwian.
‎
‎A proud son of the Sotu Family in Ekreghweroro Quarter, Chief Oris Sotu is from the respected Ujhe Family. He is closely associated with the popular Film Hall Street and Film Hall Junction, an area that many residents fondly identify as Oris Sotu Street because of his long-standing influence and presence in the community.

‎Over the years, he has built a reputation as a compassionate leader, community builder, and philanthropist who has continually invested his time, resources, and energy in initiatives that promote the welfare and progress of Ovwian Community.
‎
‎His commitment to unity, peace, and sustainable development has earned him widespread admiration, making his induction into the Elders Council a fitting recognition of his invaluable contributions.
‎
‎Speaking during the ceremony, the Chairman of the Ovwian Elders Council, Comrade William Sarhiki, warmly welcomed Chief Oris Sotu into the council. He congratulated him on his well-earned recognition and took him through the council's constitution, rules, responsibilities, and code of conduct.
‎
‎Comrade Sarhiki emphasized the importance of wisdom, integrity, and collective leadership in preserving the values and traditions of Ovwian Community, expressing confidence that Chief Oris Sotu would make meaningful contributions to the council's deliberations and the future development of the community.
‎
‎The ceremony reached an emotional and inspiring conclusion with a special prayer offered by Chief David Sapele, popularly known as "Oyhel." He prayed for God's divine protection, wisdom, strength, good health, and long life for Chief Oris Sotu as he assumes his new responsibilities as a member of the Ovwian Elders Council.
‎
‎The induction of Chief Oris Sotu represents another significant milestone in the history of Ovwian Community. It reflects the community's enduring tradition of recognizing individuals whose lives exemplify integrity, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to public service.
‎
‎As Chief Oris Sotu joins the Ovwian Elders Council, many residents have expressed optimism that his wealth of experience, leadership qualities, and passion for community development will further strengthen the council's role in promoting peace, unity, and sustainable progress across Ovwian Community.
‎

29/07/2026

*Happy Birthday to a Distinguished Leader and Community Builder*

Today, we proudly celebrate an exceptional leader, a committed servant of the people, and a true son of Ovwian Community, Comr. Timothy Okoro (Aka 50-50), the Immediate Past Vice President General of Ovwian Community.

On this special occasion, I join your family, friends, associates, and the entire Ovwian Community in wishing you a joyous and memorable birthday.

Your years of dedicated service, humility, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and development of our community have earned you the respect and admiration of many. Your leadership has inspired countless people, and your contributions will continue to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

As you celebrate another remarkable year today, may Almighty God bless you with renewed strength, sound health, divine protection, greater wisdom, and abundant grace to continue impacting lives and serving humanity. May this new chapter bring greater achievements, overflowing joy, prosperity, and fulfillment in all your endeavors.

Thank you for your selfless leadership and your invaluable contributions to the growth and progress of Ovwian Community.

*Happy Birthday, Comr. Timothy Okoro (Aka 50-50)!*

May your new age be filled with God's endless blessings, peace, happiness, and continued success.

Congratulations and many happy returns!

Michael Kelly Golohor

29/07/2026

Happy Birthday to Rt. Hon. Henry Apunu, Leader of the UDU Legislative Arm.

Wishing you good health, greater wisdom, and continued strength as you serve our people with dedication. May this new year bring you greater accomplishments, peace, and abundant blessings.

Happy Birthday, and many happy returns!

28/07/2026

Engr. Monday Akpokona Restores Electricity to Ekrimohwe Quarter After 18 Months of Darkness

By MK. GOLOHOR

There was widespread jubilation in Ekrimohwe Quarter, Ovwian Community, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, as electricity was officially restored to the community after more than one and a half years without power.

The restoration of electricity was made possible through the leadership of the OGHWUWIE of Ekrimohwe Quarter, Engr. Monday Akpokona, whose commitment to improving the welfare of the people has been widely commended by residents.

Speaking during the official restoration of power, Engr. Akpokona described the return of electricity as the fulfillment of a promise he made to the people upon assuming office. He noted that it had been painful to watch residents endure over eighteen months of darkness, stressing that restoring electricity became one of his administration's top priorities.

"I was determined to ensure that our people no longer lived in darkness. Electricity is essential for security, businesses, education, and the overall well-being of the community. Today, I am delighted that we have fulfilled this important responsibility," he said.

To ensure the success of the project, Engr. Akpokona constituted a special committee headed by Engr. Charles Gboko, with the mandate to coordinate and fast-track the restoration process.

The OGHWUWIE expressed satisfaction with the committee's dedication and efficiency, commending its members for completing the assignment within a short period. He specifically praised the leadership of Engr. Charles Gboko and the committee for their commitment and teamwork.

Residents of Ekrimohwe Quarter expressed appreciation to Engr. Monday Akpokona and the committee, describing the restoration of electricity as a significant milestone that will improve security, boost economic activities, and enhance the quality of life within the community.

The successful restoration of electricity has been celebrated as another demonstration of purposeful leadership and a renewed commitment to community development in Ekrimohwe Quarter.

15/07/2026

SOME HISTORICAL FACTS ABOUT OVWIAN COMMUNITY

Did You Know?

One of Ovwian Community's most distinguished daughters is Mrs. Cecilia Ibru, a renowned Nigerian banker and one of the country's pioneering female banking executives.

A native of Ovwian Community in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, Cecilia Ibru rose to national prominence as the former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the now-defunct Oceanic Bank International Plc. She made history as the first woman to serve as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of a Nigerian commercial bank, earning widespread recognition as the "First Lady of Banking."

Born to Edward and Victoria Sido, Cecilia Ibru traces her roots to Uduvwurhie Quarter (Patani) through her father and Ekreghweroro Quarter, Ovwian Community through her mother.

She received her secondary education at Saint Margaret's Grammar School, Ilesa, where she studied alongside her twin sister, Lucy, from 1960 to 1965. She later attended University Tutorial College, London between 1967 and 1968 before earning a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Sociology from the University of London in 1971. She furthered her education at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, where she obtained a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in 1977.

In 1978, Cecilia Ibru joined the Ibru Organisation as Project Director. Two years later, she became the International Finance Coordinator, a position she held until 1990.

Her banking career began in 1990 when she joined Oceanic Bank as General Manager. Through dedication and visionary leadership, she was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer in 1997. Under her stewardship, Oceanic Bank grew from a relatively modest financial institution into one of Nigeria's leading publicly quoted banks.

In 2015, together with her husband, Dr. Michael Ibru, she co-founded Michael and Cecilia Ibru University in Agbara-Otor, Delta State, contributing significantly to higher education and human capital development in Nigeria.

Cecilia Ibru's remarkable achievements continue to inspire generations of Nigerians and remain a source of immense pride to the people of Ovwian Community, Udu Kingdom, Delta State, and the Urhobo Nation.

Ovwian is proud to celebrate one of its outstanding daughters whose legacy in banking, education, and national development continues to endure.

14/07/2026

Ovwian PG Inspects Ongoing Community Jetty Project, Commends Quality of Work

By Michael Kelly O. Golohor

OVWIAN COMMUNITY, Udu LGA, Delta State | Tuesday, 14 July 2026

The President General of Ovwian Community, Comrade Joseph Dele Okuku, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to infrastructural development and effective project monitoring following an inspection visit to the ongoing construction of the Ovwian Community Jetty along the community waterfront.

The inspection, which took place on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, saw the President General accompanied by members of the Ovwian Community Executive Council to assess the progress of work and ensure that the project meets the required standards and specifications.

Addressing journalists during the visit, Comrade Okuku expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of construction, describing the project as a landmark development that will significantly improve water transportation, enhance accessibility, and stimulate economic growth within Ovwian Community.

He commended the contractor for the professionalism, dedication, and quality workmanship demonstrated since the commencement of the project, while urging the construction firm to maintain the high standard already established.

"The quality of this project is encouraging, and we appreciate the commitment shown by the contractor. We expect the work to continue according to specifications and be completed within the stipulated timeframe. This jetty is a vital asset that will serve our people for many years," the President General said.

Comrade Okuku further assured residents that the Community Executive would continue to provide the necessary supervision and support to ensure the successful completion of the project. He emphasized that his administration remains committed to initiating and delivering sustainable projects that improve the welfare of the people and promote the long-term development of Ovwian Community.

Also speaking during the inspection, the Secretary-General of Ovwian Community, Hon. Riyo Oghenekowhiroro Golohor, applauded the contractor for the remarkable progress recorded so far. He expressed optimism that the project would be completed on schedule and described the jetty as a strategic infrastructure that would create new opportunities for transportation, commerce, and economic development.

Members of the Community Executive Council who accompanied the President General also expressed confidence in the quality of work and reiterated the leadership's resolve to ensure transparency, accountability, and strict monitoring of all community development projects.

When completed, the Ovwian Community Jetty is expected to improve access to riverine areas, facilitate safer and more efficient water transportation, encourage commercial activities, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic advancement of Ovwian Community.

Photo Caption: President General of Ovwian Community, Comrade Joseph Dele Okuku (centre), accompanied by Secretary-General Hon. Riyo Oghenekowhiroro Golohor Comr Austin Austine Oruma deputy traditional Prim minister Comr Sylvester Ovedjr PRO and others stakeholders of the Community inspecting the ongoing Ovwian Community Jetty project during a monitoring visit on Tuesday, 14 July 2026.

Ovwian Community Magazine

09/08/2026

08/08/2026

30/07/2026

30/07/2026

29/07/2026

29/07/2026

29/07/2026

28/07/2026

15/07/2026

14/07/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Listing takedown request