08/06/2025
Chief Kia congratulates distinguished leaders on Chieftaincy titles and awards in Opuama Kingdom
The Immediate Past Executive Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area and currently the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State on Local Government, Chief (Hon.) Kia Ebidoughebofa Nigeria, has extended heartfelt congratulations to several distinguished personalities who were recently honored with traditional chieftaincy titles and awards of excellence by the revered people of Opuama Kingdom during the Opuama Day Festival.
Among the eminent recipients was the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), His Royal Highness, Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, who was decorated with the prestigious traditional title of “The Firiwonideinwei 1 of Opuama Kingdom.” This title stands as a strong testament to his unwavering commitment to grassroots development and his noble contributions to the Niger Delta region.
Also honored was Prince Doodei Week, PhD, the Director of Procurement at the NDDC, who was conferred with the distinguished title of “The Tukpa 1 of Opuamam Kingdom.” His recognition reflects his remarkable service, leadership capacity, and dedication to public service at the regional level.
The Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, was not left out of the glorious occasion. He was conferred with the title “The Opu-okpo 1 of Opuama Kingdom,” in recognition of his sterling leadership, legislative competence, and outstanding support for community-based governance.
In addition, Hon. Robert Ayala Enougha, a former member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, and Hon. Mrs. Josephine Ketebu, Executive Assistant to the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State were both honored with Awards of Excellence, acknowledging their selfless contributions to public service and the advancement of the Opuama Kingdom.
Chief Kia, in his congratulatory message, praised these illustrious sons and daughter of Bayelsa State for graciously accepting the chieftaincy titles and awards. He described their recognition as well-deserved, emphasizing that their acceptance of these honors further underscores their genuine connection with the grassroots, and their respect for the cultural values and traditional institutions of the Niger Delta.
“The good people of Opuama Kingdom have made a wise and noble decision by honoring these accomplished individuals. Their presence and participation in this cultural celebration is a powerful reminder of their dedication to community growth, development, and cultural preservation,” Chief Kia remarked.
He further stated that such recognitions are not only a mark of appreciation for past efforts, but also a call for continued service and deeper engagement in building a stronger, more united, and prosperous society.
The colorful and historic ceremony attracted a cross-section of society including prominent sons and daughters of Opuama Kingdom, respected traditional rulers, political stakeholders, youth leaders, women groups, and other dignitaries, all of whom gathered to witness and celebrate this proud moment in the kingdom’s history.
Chief Kia concluded by urging the honorees to remain steadfast in their efforts to uplift the lives of the people, promote peace and unity, and support the developmental agenda.
Once again, he congratulated the honorees and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and grace upon their lives as they take on these new traditional responsibilities.
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