National Times

12/08/2025

Opobo Converge UK 2025: A Resounding Revival of Culture, Unity, and Pride

London, Saturday 9th August 2025 — The atmosphere in the packed hall on Saturday evening was more than festive — it was electric, charged with the rhythmic pulse of drums, the shimmer of traditional regalia, and the unmistakable warmth of a people reunited with their heritage. “Minapu, Ibooma eeh!” was the call that greeted attendees, and in that instant, the 2025 Opobo Converge UK transformed from an event into a homecoming.

For a people whose roots trace back to the storied Opobo Kingdom in Rivers State, Nigeria, the gathering was both a celebration and a statement: the cultural spirit of Opobo in the United Kingdom is alive again, and this time, it’s here to stay. Historical accounts show that Opobians began migrating to the UK as far back as the 1880s, carrying with them not only the quest for education and new opportunities but also the living, breathing essence of their homeland.

The evening began with Opening Prayers, followed by the National Anthems of England and Nigeria — a symbolic nod to the twin worlds these diasporan sons and daughters navigate. The Table Call then ushered guests into the program proper, where history took center stage. Attendees listened intently to a brief but stirring account of Opobo Kingdom’s history, including King Jaja’s legendary struggle against British imperialism — a tale that drew nods of pride from the elders and sparked curiosity among the younger generation present.

What followed was a visual and auditory feast. The Polo Dance Procession, complete with fluttering polo flags, burst onto the floor with color and movement, paving the way for the IRIA Dance Procession — a cultural performance so rich in symbolism it felt like a direct link to the homeland. The Opobo Women’s Dance showcased grace and dignity, while the Opobo Children’s Dance melted hearts with youthful joy and promise. The Opobo Men’s Dance brought power and precision, before the hall rose in anticipation for the Alabo Procession/Dance — a majestic display of authority and tradition.

A key highlight of the evening came when Dr. Douglas Iyalla Pepple was ceremonially crowned the Alabo UK — an in-house title of honor within the United Kingdom Opobo community. The symbolic investiture was met with resounding applause, marking not only a personal honor for Dr. Pepple but also a cultural milestone for Opobians in the diaspora.

The night’s cultural segment reached its crescendo with the Uke Dance, its hypnotic rhythms drawing cheers and ululations from the crowd. Moments later, attention shifted to the Raffle Draw Show, where lucky winners beamed as they claimed their prizes.

Dinner was served in the true spirit of Opobo hospitality — hearty, flavorful, and abundant — fueling laughter and conversation deep into the night. As the Closing segment wrapped, it was clear the mission had been accomplished: bonds had been rekindled, heritage had been honored, and a fresh vision for unity had been set in motion.

In his remarks, lead Convener, Sobere Opusunju captured the evening’s essence perfectly: “This is Opobo new gen recreating what our older ones had done in the past.” His words drew applause, not just for their truth, but for the renewed determination they represented.

But the night did not end there. The After Party roared into life, with contemporary beats merging seamlessly with traditional melodies, symbolizing exactly what this new wave of Opobians in the UK stands for: a blending of the old and the new, the ancestral and the modern.

As one elder was overheard saying near the exit, “This is how it used to be… and this is how it will be again.”

The Opobo Converge UK 2025 was more than an event — it was a revival, a cultural statement, and a promise. A promise that wherever Opobians gather, whether in the creeks of the Niger Delta or the streets of London, the drumbeat of their heritage will never be silenced.

03/08/2025

ROTARY CLUB OF TRANS AMADI EMBARKS ON SENSITIZATION OF HEPATITIS B VIRUS

No fewer than 56 persons, comprising of men and women turned out on Friday July 28, 2025 at Amadi Ama Community Town Hall in Port Harcourt Local Government Area to be screened for the life threatening disease known as Hepatitis B Virus.

The medical outreach aimed at creating more awareness, was organized by members of Rotary Club of Trans Amadi District 9141 Nigeria as part of the events to mark the 2025 World Hepatitis Day, also featured free sugar level and blood pressure tests.

Delivering a health talk at the event with the theme: Let’s Break It D0own, a medical expert Dr. Ojeogwu Jane took time to explain more about the causes of Hepatitis B Virus, describing it as an infectious disease that can be cured if detected early enough and also advised about the best ways to avoid being infected with the disease.

Fielding questions from our reporter on sidelines of the event, the President Rotary Club of Trans Amadi District 9141 Nigeria, Rtn. Benjamin Orabueze disclosed that the medical outreach is in line with the call on humanitarian service that informed the club to join the rest of the world to embark in creating more awareness about the Hepatitis B Virus and precautions to be taken to avoid being infected.

“Indeed, it is very important for us as a club to carry out the sensitization for people to know the degree of damage it will cost to the liver if affected and that was why we firstly went on road show to draw the attention of the community people so that they will come out to be educated more about the infectious disease that could lead to death if it touches the liver. However, I’m highly impressed with the turnout of people within the community”, he said.

Continuing, Rtn. Orabueze encouraged members of the community and environs who may have been diagnosed with Hepatitis B not to see it as the end of the battle but to always push further in consulting a doctor who will advise them on how to manage the situation, because if it is left unchecked, it then means that the whole effort of our coming out for the sensitization will be meaningless.

“In fact, let all who has been screened here today sustain the check up to know what to do next based on the advice of the doctor.

“Again, I will encourage everyone to take personal hygiene very seriously and also abstain from some certain things like sexual in*******se that could lead to easy transmission of the disease and equally affect pregnant woman to the unborn child”, the Rotary President stated.

Some of the people who benefitted from the Hepatitis B screening in an interview expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi District 9141 for their kind gesture and for sponsoring such life saving medical outreach in the community.

13/07/2025

ROTARY CLUB OF PORT HARCOURT PHOENIX GETS NEW PRESIDENT

Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Phoenix District 9141 Nigeria has formally installed Rotarian Lilian Chidinma Okoroha as its 6th President to pilot the affairs of the Club for the 2025/2026 Rotary year.

The colourful installation ceremony which was held on Friday evening, July 12, 2025 at the well-decorated hall of Golden Tulip Garden City Hotel, situated along Stadium Road, Port Harcourt, attracted eminent personalities from far and near, including past and President District Governors in attendance.

In his valedictory speech before exchanging the balton of leadership to the newly installed President Rtn. Ozuhia, took time to commend the efforts made by the members of the club in touching the lives of the masses through the ex*****on of laudable projects in line with the seven areas of focus of Rotary.

He, however, affirmed the hope that his successor Rtn. Lilian Chidinma Okoroha will equally stand on the gain of what is on ground to do better.

He also urged the members of the Club to do well and accord the new President of the Club, the same good support to enable her succeed in taking the club to greater heights.

Fielding questions from our reporter outside the hall, after being decorated with the Presidential Gold Medal, as the 6th President of Rotary Clubs of Port Harcourt Phoenix District 9141 Nigeria, Rotarian Lilian Chidinma Okoroha, could not hold back her joy, following the massive turnout of friends and special guests including Club members that were present to honour her while assuring that she will not disappoint in leading the Club well.

The visibly elated Rtn. Lilian Okoroha further disclosed her vision for the club is to work hard to ensure for a better improved services to humanity, noting that Rotary is an organization made of professionals from various fields of endeavor who came together to do impactful projects that would be beneficial to the life of the masses.

When quizzed on the possibility to surpass the good records of achievement done by his predecessor, the radiant looking newly installed President, replied thus: “we are not doing competition in Rotary but I will do my best to keep the Club flying high by building on the gains laid down by my predecessor as leadership in Rotary is a continuous process”.

“Indeed, we will take a critical look at the gains of the last year and see where we have not done better so as to ride on that strength of our failure and see how we are going to hold the club to be more visible in the history of achievements with a view to carry out more impactful projects which will give the Club good game not only in the District but also outside the world”

She, nevertheless, seized the opportunity to call on spirited individuals to come forward to join Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Phoenix to enable her members actualize lots of life touching projects namely; water and sanitation, vocational service, basic education and literacy, maternal and child health project among others that falls in line with the seven areas of focus in Rotary.

Also in a separate interview at the sideline of the event was the Past Assistant Governor of Rotary, Zone 30, Rotarian Jerus Uvieghara who did not mince words in describing the installation ceremony as a huge success.

Rtn. Uvieghara, however, affirmed confidence in the ability and capability of Rtn. Lilian Okoroha to champion the ship of Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Phoenix District 9141 to enviable heights.

Highlight of the event was the induction of new Board of Director for 2025/2026 Rotary year, introduction of new members into the Club, presentation of Award to deserving personalities who distinguished themselves in the course of humanitarian services, the raffle draw and Auction sales.

There was also cutting of installation cake by the newly installed President Rtn. Lilian Chidinma Okoroha.

28/06/2025

Nigeria’s Climate Crisis of Leadership: Why Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe Must Step Up or Step Aside

By Johnmartins Ijere

Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads in its climate diplomacy and carbon market development. While the rest of the world races forward to secure climate financing, carbon trade partnerships, and sustainability investments, Nigeria remains stuck—crippled by leadership inertia and institutional dysfunction.

At the center of this stalled progress is Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, the newly appointed (though still in interim capacity) Director General and CEO of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC). Her appointment by President Bola Tinubu on June 9, 2024, was initially welcomed with cautious optimism. Yet, just months into her role, Nigeria’s climate community is grappling with the uncomfortable question: Has Dr. Maduekwe become part of the problem?

Nigeria has yet to establish a National Carbon Framework or even a Carbon Registry—the most basic tools required to participate in the booming global carbon market. The failure to act has cost the nation over $500 million annually in unrealized revenue and technical support, with states in the Niger Delta—like Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, and Cross River—bearing the brunt of this economic and ecological neglect.

These states have proactively developed their sub-national carbon market strategies, ready to pilot green investments and carbon credit projects that can bring jobs and resilience to vulnerable communities. But without a federal registry and framework, their efforts are paralyzed. The bottleneck is not funding or technical expertise—it’s leadership.

Rather than rally the climate community and fast-track reforms, Dr. Maduekwe's tenure has so far been marked by exclusionary practices and bureaucratic gridlock. Civil society groups and even state-level officials were reportedly sidelined from participating in the 62nd UNFCCC session in Bonn, a crucial global forum for climate negotiations and partnerships.

In a time when transparency, inclusion, and urgency are vital, Dr. Maduekwe’s leadership is perceived as aloof and non-collaborative, undermining Nigeria’s credibility on the global climate stage. This alienation not only weakens domestic climate cohesion but also signals to international donors and investors that Nigeria may not be ready to manage complex carbon governance systems.

Despite numerous public declarations and policy promises, there is no published roadmap or timeline for the rollout of a National Carbon Framework, a document that should provide guidance on carbon pricing, trading mechanisms, MRV (Measurement, Reporting and Verification), and benefit-sharing.

Likewise, the absence of a functional National Carbon Registry—a digital system for tracking emissions reductions and credit transactions—makes it impossible for Nigeria to issue, sell, or retire carbon credits at scale. These are standard systems that other African countries like Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa have successfully deployed to attract billions in carbon financing.

This is not merely a policy delay—it is a developmental emergency. In the age of climate economics, every lost day equals lost revenue, lost resilience, and lost lives. If Nigeria must participate meaningfully in Article 6 of the Paris Agreement or attract private carbon capital, the federal government must deliver results now.

The Federal Government as a matter of urgency will have to

●Launch the National Carbon Framework within 3 months, with clear, consultative policy pillars and state-level integration.

●Establish an internationally compliant National Carbon Registry within 6 months, aligning with global standards for transparency and verification.

●Acknowledge the urgency and course-correct her leadership approach by embracing inclusivity, engaging stakeholders at all levels, and prioritizing transparency.

●Engage with the Commissioners of Environment in carbon-ready states, who are poised to be key implementation partners.

Nigeria’s climate future depends on strong, visionary, and accountable leadership. Dr. Maduekwe still has a window of opportunity to prove she is the right leader for this moment. But that window is closing fast.

The world is not waiting. The markets are not waiting. And the climate won’t wait either.

14/05/2025

Plan To Attend

https://events2go.iccwbo.org/event/icc-yaaf-navigating-complex-disputes-the-effectiveness-of-arbitration

10/04/2025

MISLEADING COMMENTS ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION, AND THE SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT

We ordinarily would have refrained from responding to commentaries by individuals or groups seeking to achieve cheap popularity as regards the lawful actions of the Administrator in Rivers State.

However, when such commentaries contain blatant misinformation and are disseminated on a platform with extensive national reach, we are compelled to set the record straight for the benefit of the public.

During a recent appearance on ARISE TV’s "The Morning Show," Mr. Jake Epelle made misleading and inflammatory remarks regarding the appointment of Administrators for Local Government Areas in Rivers State. While attempting to mask his bias with faint praise—referring to the Administrator as a "gentleman" and a "well-trained officer"—Mr. Epelle proceeded to label the lawful administrative measures as "illegal." Even more reckless was his unfounded insinuation of "ethnic cleansing," a claim that is not only baseless but dangerously inflammatory.

Ignorance of Supreme Court Judgment

Mr. Epelle’s assertions conveniently ignore the landmark judgment of the Supreme Court in Suit No. SC/CV/1176/2024 (Rivers State House of Assembly & Others vs. Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) & Nine Others), where the apex court unequivocally ruled that any local government election conducted in violation of the Electoral Act is "unconstitutional, null, and void."

Given this clear judicial position, it is disingenuous for anyone to suggest that the Administrator’s actions—taken in strict compliance with the law—are illegal. We expect public commentators, especially those granted national platforms, to engage in informed discourse rather than peddle politically motivated falsehoods.

A Call for Responsible Journalism

We are particularly disappointed that ARISE TV, through its anchor Dr. Reuben Abati—an experienced journalist, lawyer, and former presidential spokesperson—allowed such misinformation to go unchallenged. The media has a duty to uphold truth and balance. We must take cognisance that responsible journalism embodies a commitment to fairness, fact, accountability and ethical decision-making to ensure an informed society that values accurate information and diverse perspectives and not amplify sensationalism.

Restoring Order in Rivers State

Rivers State is navigating a delicate phase in its democratic journey. The Administrator and his team remain committed to restoring lawful governance in line with the mandate of Mr. President. Recent events—including the demolition of the State House of Assembly complex, the irregular passage of appropriation bills, and other security threats— demanded decisive intervention. Should the President, who swore an oath to protect lives, property, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity, have stood idly by?

Appeal for Peace and Responsibility

This is a time for sobriety, not reckless rhetoric. While the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, it must be exercised with responsibility. We urge all stakeholders to prioritize peace and work collectively towards stabilizing Rivers State.

Signed
Tobias Otibara Tamunobelema
Convener
Rivers Progressive Peoples Front

18/03/2025

Rivers Political Crisis

Niger Delta Grand Fighters threatens to damage oil facilities in Rivers State if President Tinubu does not call FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike to order

14/03/2025

Governor Siminalayi Fubara writes Rivers Assembly Again

14/03/2025

Princess Ibiene Ogan Joins Okrikans To Welcome Governor Fubara

The first female chairman of Okrika local government area, Amabelemabo Princess Ibiene Ogan yesterday joined the people of Okrika to welcome the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara for the commissioning of the reconstructed famous Okrika Grammar School.

Princess Ibiene Ogan led Okrika Women in Politics and Okrika Women for Sim to receive the governor at the auspicious occasion.

The Women were cladded in their beautiful traditional outfits, signifying the importance of the occasion and their love for Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

In an interview with newsmen at the premises of Okrika Grammar School, Amabelemabo Ibiene Ogan praised Governor Fubara for his vision and determination to project Okrika to the world.

She noted that with the reconstruction of Okrika Grammar School, the governor has shown love for Education and the wellbeing of future generations.

According to her, the epoch occasion is not lost on the people of Okrika, who she says will continue to support Governor Siminalayi Fubara till the end of his tenure in 2031.

The first female chairman of Okrika, who is widely known as Mama Light, stressed that the women remain resolute in their support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara and would do all within their powers to give him maximum support.

25/02/2025

Seinye Lulu-Briggs Named Year 2024 African Philantropist
..Receives South Carolina Reps Recognition

Nigerian industrialist and philanthropist, Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs, Chairman and Chief Executive of Moni Pulo Limited, has been named 2024 African Philanthropist of the Year at the prestigious African Leadership Magazine (ALM) Persons of the Year Awards, organized by the African Leadership Organization in Casablanca, Morocco.

The award recognises her extensive humanitarian work and commitment to social impact and nation-building.

Dr Seinye Lulu-Briggs, through the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, has provided healthcare, education, economic empowerment, elder care, and access to justice to over one million people in Nigeria over the past two decades.

Former President of Tanzania and chair of the advisory board of the African Leadership Organisation, Dr Jakaya Kikwete praised the honourees for their leadership and contributions to Africa’s development.

Also speaking at the auspicious event, President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar and the Prime Minister of Uganda, Robinah Nabbanja both highlighted the importance of economic development, investment in social infrastructure, and inclusive leadership in shaping Africa’s future.

Accepting the award before an audience of political, business leaders and policymakers from across the African continent, Dr. Lulu-Briggs expressed deep gratitude to the organisers and framed her philanthropic work as a lifelong mission.

Quoting 2nd Corinthians 9:12, she highlighted the spiritual essence of service: “This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”

She dedicated the honour to the communities her foundation supports, stressing that their strength and resilience serve as an inspiration to continue expanding her work.

With the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation funding medical outreaches, scholarships, community emergency interventions as well as social welfare programmes for vulnerable groups in Nigeria, the industrialist highlighted the importance of sustainable and long-term humanitarian efforts, noting that philanthropy is a journey, not a final destination.

According to her, “This recognition is especially meaningful, coming shortly after receiving the 2024 Special African Business Leadership Commendation Award and my induction into the African Business Leadership Council at the House of Lords in the UK. These honours reaffirm that philanthropy is not an endpoint—it is a continuous commitment to uplifting others and transforming lives.”

The award comes a day after she delivered a moving address at the ALM Policy, Investment, and Development Breakfast Forum, where she called for industrialisation as the key to Africa’s economic transformation.

“Philanthropy can ease suffering, but industrialisation creates jobs and gives people the dignity of lifting themselves out of poverty. That is the true difference. Yet, philanthropy itself depends on economic strength. Without the means, our goodwill is limited to good intentions,” she said.

She pointed to financial barriers that limit business growth in Africa, citing her own experience of shifting bank policies that hinder business expansion. She called on policymakers and business leaders to implement innovative financing systems, industrial policies, and investment incentives to foster sustainable development.

The high point of the evening was the special recognition conferred on Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs by the State of South Carolina in the United States of America.

The members of the South Carolina House of Representatives honoured Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs with an official House Resolution, recognising her exceptional contributions to philanthropy and business.

The resolution, introduced by Representative Henderson-Myers and her colleagues, commended her for transformative leadership, sustainable business practices, and unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes.

It highlighted her achievements, including leading Moni Pulo Limited to five million man-hours without lost-time injuries, fostering sustainable development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, and improving the lives of vulnerable populations through the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation.

The resolution reads n part:
“With a heart dedicated to nurturing local talent and creating long-term societal impact, High Chief Dr. Lulu-Briggs continues to lead with compassion, fostering positive change in the communities she serves.”

The honour was officially presented on February 13, 2025, in the South Carolina House of Representatives, signed by Speaker of the House G. Murrell Smith, Jr. and Clerk of the House Charles F. Reid, underscoring international recognition of her impact.

With her latest honour as African Philanthropist of the Year, Dr Lulu-Briggs said the award serves as a renewed call to action, urging greater collaboration between business, government, and civil society. She expressed gratitude to her team, partners, colleagues, and family, acknowledging their role in the foundation’s success.

“I accept this award as a renewed call to action—to serve more, build more, and inspire more—because together, we can power Africa’s transformation,” she said.

Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs reaffirmed her commitment to expanding her philanthropic efforts while continuing to advocate for economic policies that promote job creation, industrial growth, and sustainable wealth.

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Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs, Chairman, Moni Pulo Limited receiving the award of African Philanthropist of the Year from H.E. Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania and Chair of the Advisory Board of the African leadership Organization with Prof. Tahir Akhar, Advisory Board Member, African Leadership Organization (left) and Dr. Ken Giambi, CEO, African Leadership Organization watch..

Pix 2: Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs (left), Chairman, Moni Pulo Limited receiving a special recognition from the House of Representatives of the State of South Carolina, USA, presented on its behalf by the Rt. Hon. Dr. Rosalyn D. Henderson-Myers, Member of the House.

28/01/2025

27/12/2024

Former Nigerian International Calls For More Investments In Sports

A former Nigerian international, Maurice Michael Udobia says Nigeria needs to invest more in sports facilities and associated equipment if the country is to achieve more successes in different sporting activities.

Udobia, who is in Nigeria for a short vacation, noted that countries that have excelled in sports are those who have paid attention to provision of facilities, athletes’ welfare and investments in equipment.

During his playing days, Udobia featured for Sharks of Port Harcourt, Calabar Rovers, Stationary Stores, and Bendel United before proceeding to Spain to play professionally.

According to him, “I was privileged to watch Rivers United FC vs Kwara United. The game was impressive but the stadium needs to be brought up to standards. Better sports facilities are needed in Nigeria as Nigerians are thriving all over the world in terms of sports.

“Nigerian athletes deserve better and should be properly remunerated. They need to be encouraged to thrive better in their respective sporting events. We have our people who are doing well all the world and we can replicate same in Nigeria.”

Udobia, who was in the then Green Eagles camp with Henry Nwosu, Monday Eguavon, Richard Owubokiri, Benjamin Nzeakor, Moses Kpakor, Moses Effiong, among others believes Nigeria can excel in sports if sufficient premium is placed on the required environment

The former player with AD Campiyo in the Spanish 3rd division and Albacete Bolompio in 1st division, also played for the San Jose Oaks in the United States.

On leaving football, he went for further education and attended St. Mary’s College in the United States, where he received bachelor degree in Business Management and Masters from National University in Educational Counseling.

He presently works at Jesse Bethel High School in the United States where Mr. Khehinde Stevenson is the principal!

Udobia hailed Mr. Khehinde Stevenson, who is also a minister at a church, for the good works he has been doing at Jesse Bethel High School.

He gave a background as to why Mr Steveson bears a Yoruba name, since he is not a Nigerian.

“His mom was a friend with a Nigerian woman who was from Yoruba. She made a promise that since she loves Nigerians so much, she would give her child a Nigerian name. When our principal was delivered, it happened that she had a twin and decided to call my principal Khehinde and the brother Taiwo,” he disclosed.