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Ahead of 2027: Council of Clergy Dumps Rev Waive, Rallies Behind Ominimini for Reps Seat

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A powerful coalition of Christian clerics across Ughelli North, Ughelli South and Udu Federal Constituency has thrown its weight behind Chief Dr. Ominimini Obiuwevbi ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring him the most competent and compassionate choice to represent the constituency at the House of Representatives.

The endorsement, announced on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, followed a high-level gathering of General Overseers, Archbishops, Bishops, Reverends and Pastors drawn from multiple denominations, who converged at Ominimini’s Ughelli residence in a show of unity and political direction. The clerical bloc, led by Bishop Billion Djanere and Bishop Dr. Harriton Akpodiete, also signaled a clear shift in allegiance, effectively abandoning Rev Francis Waive’s camp in favour of what they described as “tested leadership and purposeful representation.”

Speaking at the event, Bishop Dr. Harriton Akpodiete of Ark of Faith Fulfillment Assembly, Ughelli, gave a strong endorsement of Ominimini’s candidacy, emphasising his personal qualities and track record, stressing that they have lost faith in Hon. Waive’s representation.

“Chief Ominimini is a compassionate man with a listening ear, excellent educational qualifications and legislative experience required to represent the good people of Ughelli/Udu Federal Constituency at the National Assembly,” he stated.
“He has consistently advocated for the development of the Urhobo Nation and the creation of Urhobo State — aspirations that can only be effectively pursued from the National Assembly.”

Akpodiete further stressed that Ominimini’s longstanding commitment to the Urhobo cause sets him apart in a race that will demand both political will and legislative depth.

In his remarks, Bishop Billion Djanere underscored the strategic importance of electing a candidate with proven governance experience, pointing to Ominimini’s tenure as Speaker of the Ughelli North Legislative Arm and his role as a Commissioner with the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).

“The gains and benefits of having Dr. Ominimini at the National Assembly are enormous,” Djanere declared. “His track record speaks volumes. We are not just endorsing a candidate; we are endorsing competence, experience and a future of effective representation.”

He charged the clergy present to take the message beyond the meeting, urging them to mobilize grassroots support across churches and communities.

“Go back to your congregations and preach the message of Chief Ominimini for House of Representatives 2027. This is a collective mission,” he added.

The event reached its climax with a unanimous voice vote endorsing Ominimini as the preferred candidate of the Christian community within the federal constituency. The clerics pledged to galvanize broader interdenominational support and extend their mobilization to other Christian bodies across the region.

“We are united in this decision,” the group affirmed. “We will mobilize across all Christian denominations to ensure that Chief Ominimini emerges victorious in 2027.”

The gathering drew an extensive list of prominent religious leaders, including Bishop Billion Djanere, Bishop Dr. Harriton Akpodiete, Prelate Prof. D. Joshua, Bishop Prof. E. O. Ugheni, Bishop Dr. J. E. Obahor, Bishop Mathew Orubu, Bishop Dr. E. I. John, Bishop Dr. Oriokpa, Rev. Mrs. Victoria Oshevire, Bishop Macpherson Oweh, Apostle Epwe Roland, Bishop Dickson Obiuwoh, Pastor Simeon Oduesie, Rev. Harry Odede, Pastor Saniyo Obiuwevbi, Rev. Gabriel Nyenyen, Rev. Chris Michael, Rev. Canon Lucky Obregha, Apostle Peter Ikuku, Bishop Mrs. Ifaka, Prophet Paul, Saint Dr. Goddowell Ivworin, Rev. Dr. Joseph Akpobome, Rev. Canon Okoro Johnbull Obrorhie, Rev. Dr. Joel, among others.

The endorsement marks a significant political development in the Ughelli/Udu federal constituency, as religious leaders—often key opinion molders—move early to shape the 2027 electoral landscape.

Pyrates Confraternity, Health Experts Mobilize Against Cervical Cancer “Ignorance” in Delta State

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NAS

In a powerful advocacy drive to mark World Health Day 2026, the Vito Corsica Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has called for a radical shift in how Nigerians perceive and treat cervical cancer. Highlighting the 2026 theme, “Together for Science,” the association brought medical professionals to the forefront to emphasize that the high mortality rates currently recorded in the country are largely due to late detection and the persistence of harmful medical myths.

Emeka Maduka, representing the Seadogs, explained that through their “NAS Medical Mission,” the organization is dedicated to bridging the gap between scientific advancement and community awareness, ensuring that life-saving information reaches the most vulnerable women in Delta State.

The clinical reality presented during the briefing, led by Dr. Dumbiri Melvin of the Federal Medical Centre Asaba, is that sub-Saharan Africa remains a global hotspot for cervical cancer deaths, with hundreds of thousands of women lost annually. Dr. Melvin explained that cervical cancer is almost exclusively caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus so common that nearly every sexually active person will contract it at some point.

While the doctor focused on traditional risk factors like multiple partners and early sexual debut, he also underscored the critical role of a woman’s overall health. He pointed out that long-term inflammation from other untreated infections and even environmental factors like high levels of air pollution or poor hygiene can play a secondary role in how the body handles the virus. Furthermore, a point of significant clinical interest is the link between cervical health and prolonged use of oral contraceptives; while vital for autonomy, experts suggest that women on long-term hormonal birth control should be even more diligent with their annual screenings.

The advocacy drive aimed a heavy blow at the stigma surrounding the disease. Experts noted that many women avoid screening because they mistakenly associate a positive HPV test with promiscuity. In reality, the virus can remain dormant for years, and even a woman with a single lifelong partner can be at risk.

To combat this, the “NAS Medical Mission” is pushing for a community-wide acceptance of the HPV vaccine for children as young as nine. By vaccinating boys as well as girls, the chain of transmission is broken, providing a “herd immunity” that protects future generations.

The doctors also addressed a common oversight in women’s health: the impact of active and passive smoking. Chemicals in cigarettes are known to concentrate in the cervical mucus, directly damaging the DNA of the cervix and making it significantly harder for the immune system to clear high-risk HPV strains.

Looking toward the future, the association threw its weight behind the World Health Organization’s 2030 elimination targets. This strategy relies on the “90-70-90” framework: vaccinating 90% of girls, screening 70% of women, and ensuring 90% of those diagnosed receive immediate, high-quality treatment.

Dr. Melvin reminded the public that in its earliest stages, the disease is often completely asymptomatic, meaning a woman cannot rely on “feeling sick” as a cue to see a doctor. Instead, the focus must remain on routine Pap smears and HPV DNA testing, both of which are available at the Federal Medical Centre and Asaba Specialist Hospital.

The Pyrates Confraternity concluded the session by urging the government and private sector to subsidize these tests, arguing that the cost of prevention is a fraction of the cost of treating advanced-stage cancer. They reaffirmed their commitment to using their platform to ensure that science, rather than rumor, dictates the health choices of every family in Asaba.

OGBEOGONOGO MOTOR PARK CRISIS: MANAGEMENT DEBUNKS “WONG BOX” VIDEO, ALLEGES THUG ATTACK, N3.2M THEFT …Says viral claims misrepresent March 10 Asaba incident

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Ogbeogonogo Market Motor Park

By Our Correspondent

The management of the Ogbeogonogo Market Motor Park in Asaba has strongly refuted claims circulating in a viral video posted by self acclaimed activist Victor Ojei, popularly known as Wong Box, describing them as false, misleading, and a distortion of the events that unfolded at the facility on March 10, 2026.

Addressing journalists in Asaba, the park manager under Ekwe-Ogidi Integrated Resources Limited, Chief Emeka Okoye, gave a detailed account of the incident, insisting that contrary to the narrative promoted online, it was not a case of a motorist being assaulted by park officials, but rather an orchestrated disruption allegedly led by one Stephen Onyeka.

According to him; “Information made available to me was that the man (Onyeka) had entered the park in his vehicle, paid the approved N500 parking fee, and conducted his business unhindered. However trouble started when he attempted to exit the park through the entrance gate, in violation of established traffic regulations governing the facility.

“He was politely directed to use the designated exit gate like every other motorist, but he refused because he had parked close to the entrance and did not want to join the queue,” the manager explained.

The refusal, he said, caused a major obstruction at the busy entrance, preventing incoming vehicles from accessing the park and creating tension among drivers and traders. Despite repeated appeals from staff, other motorists, and even elderly bystanders, Onyeka allegedly remained defiant.

The situation prompted the intervention of the park manager, Chief Emeka Okoye, who was alerted and rushed to the scene. He reportedly made further efforts to calmly resolve the impasse, reiterating the long-standing operational rules of the park, but Onyeka allegedly refused to comply.

Sensing possible enforcement action, Onyeka reportedly abandoned his vehicle at the entrance gate and left the premises before police personnel from the A Division arrived.

However, the situation took a more violent turn shortly after.

The management alleged that Onyeka later returned with over 30 armed individuals suspected to be cultists, who posed as vigilante operatives. The group allegedly descended on park staff, assaulting them and creating chaos across the facility.

“In the course of the chaos, they took advantage of the confusion to cart away over N3.2 million in cash realised from park operations that day,” the manager stated, adding that the attack brought commercial activities to a halt.

Chief Emeka Okoye, while condemning the development, also took a swipe at Wong Box for what he described as irresponsible activism.

“It is unfortunate that someone would go on social media to spread unverified claims. Activism should be rooted in truth and proper investigation, not sensationalism,” Okoye said.

He further alleged that after the incident, Onyeka connived with a police officer identified as Emeka at the A Division to obtain a medical report under questionable circumstances, falsely claiming he was assaulted by park staff.

This claim, the management said, led to the arrest and detention of innocent staff members, while their own complaint against Onyeka and his alleged accomplices was ignored.

The company also decried the financial impact of the incident, noting that operations were shut down for the rest of the day, resulting in significant revenue loss, including funds due for remittance to the Delta State Government.

Despite what the management described as “overwhelming video evidence,” they expressed frustration that efforts to secure a fair investigation at the police division have yielded no result.

“We believe we cannot get justice at the A Division, which is why we have come to the court of public opinion,” the manager stated.

The management called on relevant authorities to launch an independent investigation into the incident, prosecute those responsible for the alleged attack and theft, and address what they described as complicity within the police system.

They also urged members of the public to disregard what they termed as “false narratives” circulating online and to await the outcome of a proper and impartial inquiry.

As at the time of this report, the case is still being investigated by the Police.

End

Ogbeogonogo Market Motor Park

Obi-Iloh Ebedei Community Makes History, As Hon. Emu-Led Committee Conducts Historic Election for Office Holders In Secret Ballot System

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By Comrade Wilbet Ijeoma

In what appealed to the public and neighbouring communities as historic and highly commendable, the Hon Emu Ambrose-Led Electoral Committee of Obi-Iloh Community in Ebedei, Ukwuani Local Government Area, Delta State, conducted elections for all four principal offices of the community which includes Umuosele Development Union (UDU) Chairman, Youth Chairman, Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC) Chairman, as well as Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC) Secretary.

The election which took place on Monday 6th April 2026 at Obi-Iloh community townhall recorded a massive turnout of Obi-Iloh indigenes both from away and at home, and was well observed from members of neighboring communities.

This time, a secret ballot system in what looks like INEC model was adopted by the electoral body which seems capital intensive but result-oriented. Candidates names and passport photographs were conspicuously printed on the ballot papers for easy identification of choice candidates, while voters take their turn to cast their votes for all four offices confidentially and simultaneously, under the watch of the electoral committee members, candidates’ agents, internal and external observers, security agents as well as gentlemen of the Press.

This development is at variance with the previous traditional “Option A” form of open ballot system of election where votes queue behind their choice candidates openly, which has been heavily criticized, being that open preference is a recipe for resentment and acrimony after election.

Shortly before the election, the Electoral Committee chairman, Hon. Emu Ambrose addressed the candidates and the electorates to conduct themselves modestly while maintaining a high level of responsibility and decorum before, during and after the election.

Speaking further, Hon. Emu, who was a former Councillor of Ebedei Ward 3 and present Supervisory Councillor for Finance, Ukwuani LGA Council, noted that after election, the spirit of no-winner-no-looser should prevail, as he urged would-be winners to be magnanimous in victory, as they carry everybody along and chart a new path forward for the development of Obi-Iloh (Umuosele) community.

The former Councillor exuded his wealth of political experience in steering the electioneering process for a peaceful, transparent, free and fair election, as voters waited patiently throughout the day to cast their votes, see their votes counted and results announced.

During the counting of the votes, the Committee Chairman, Hon. Emu confirmed to Pressmen that the election was free, fair and transparent. “The conduct of the election is okay, there’s no crisis anywhere, everybody voted and we did not disenfranchise anybody as regards the election”: the Chairman confirmed.

“The counting is ongoing and at the end of the counting, a winner must emerge, and we’ve advised the winners to carry everybody along”: Hon. Emu submitted.

Responding to the nagging issue of voters’ aparthy common in Nigerian clime, the Ebedei former Councillor and present Ukwuani Supervisory Councillor for Finance, confirmed that everybody came out en masse to vote for their choice candidates and that the ballot papers were enough for everybody.

One of the Winners of the election, the UDU Chairman-elect, Sir Roland Enebeli (aka Okpoloko) also confirmed to Pressmen that the election was free and fair, and he thank God for the successful outcome of the election.

Mr. Eugene Chinedu Diji, the incumbent OGMC Chairman of Obi-Iloh Umueziogoli community who also had a reelection bid for the same position but lost, confirmed to Pressmen that the election was free and fair, and the mode of the election is unprecedented.

Winners of the election announced are; Sir Roland Enebeli as Chairman Umuosele Development Union (UDU), Mr. Emu Franklin Onyishi as Youth Chairman, Mr. Edike Onyeka Agali as Chairman Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC), and Mr. Atuegu Onyeke as Secretary Oil and Gas Management Committee (OGMC).

Obire’s Camp Fires Back at Opuoru Over Allegations, Insists Lawmaker Is Bona Fide Warri South Indigene

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By Enitan Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR

The political atmosphere in Warri South Constituency II has intensified as the media team of the lawmaker representing the constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire, has strongly refuted allegations made against him by former lawmaker, Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru.

In a detailed rejoinder issued on Tuesday, Obire’s camp dismissed claims reportedly made by Opuoru at a public gathering and published by Fresh Angle Newspaper on March 31, 2026, describing them as “false, misleading, and defamatory.”

The statement specifically denied allegations that Obire engaged in blackmail, challenging Opuoru to provide “verifiable evidence—audio, visual, or written” to support his claims.

“At no time has Hon. (Chief) Benson Obire blackmailed or defamed Hon. Matthew Poko Opuoru before, during, or after the 2023 elections,” the statement read.

The media team further described Obire as a man of “proven integrity and high moral standing,” arguing that the allegations were inconsistent with his character and public record.

Central to the dispute is Opuoru’s claim that Obire is not an indigene of Warri South—a claim the Obire camp described as “laughable and borne out of ignorance.”
Providing a detailed background, the statement maintained that Obire is a bona fide indigene of Otovwodo (Agbassa) in Agbarha Community, Warri South Local Government Area, with maternal ties to the Omamoh family.

According to the statement, Obire was born and raised in the community, attended schools in Warri, and later graduated from Delta State University, Abraka.

The rebuttal highlighted Obire’s longstanding involvement in community leadership, noting that he served as Youth Chairman of Otovwodo (Agbassa) Community for four years and later as National Youth President of the Agbarha National Youth Council for two terms.

His leadership trajectory, the statement added, saw him rise to the traditional position of Oghwuvwie (Prime Minister) of the community, and subsequently to Deputy Unuovwodo (Deputy King’s Representative), a role he currently occupies.

“These positions, held over several years, clearly demonstrate his roots and acceptance within the community,” the statement noted.

Obire’s camp also pointed to his victory in the 2023 Delta State House of Assembly election, where he defeated Opuoru, as further evidence of his legitimacy and acceptance among constituents.

“It is inconceivable for someone not from the community to rise through such ranks and secure electoral victory,” the statement argued.

Turning the tables, the statement accused Opuoru of engaging in “campaigns of calumny” and attempting to mislead the public following his electoral defeat.

It questioned the relevance of Opuoru’s remarks at the reported gathering, suggesting they reflected political frustration rather than substantive engagement.

While acknowledging that electoral defeat can be difficult, the Obire camp urged Opuoru to exercise restraint and avoid “politics of bitterness.”

The statement also cautioned Opuoru against making remarks perceived as disrespectful to traditional rulers, warning that such actions could have serious cultural and social implications.

It called on the former lawmaker to retract his statements and issue an apology.

Reaffirming Obire’s commitment to governance, the media team described him as a “silent achiever” focused on legislative duties and delivering on campaign promises.

It added that his performance record would be made public at the appropriate time.

Looking ahead, the statement expressed confidence in Obire’s chances in the forthcoming party primaries under the All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting that “victory is certain.”

The latest exchange underscores rising political tensions in Warri South Constituency II as stakeholders position themselves ahead of future electoral contests, with both camps trading accusations in what appears to be an intensifying rivalry.

Oborevwori’s Wife Leads Autism Awareness Drive, Calls for Inclusion and Support for Special Needs Children

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Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori and the founder, You Matter Charity Foundation, has urged stakeholders, parents, and caregivers on the need to celebrate and support children living with autism and other special needs to enable them attain their full potentials.

She stated this on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at the celebration of this year’s World Autism Awareness Day with the theme “Autism with Humanity: Every Life Has Value,” emphasizing on acceptance, inclusion, and the empowerment of every child in society.

The celebration commenced with a 4km awareness walk from Temple Clinic Junction to the Government House, Asaba, led by Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori who was joined by top Nigeria celebrities including Harrysong, Patience Ozokwor and other entertainers, actors and actresses, whose participation amplified visibility and public engagement for Autism.

Speaking at the event, Deaconess Oborevwori described the theme as timely and deeply significant, noting that it underscores the dignity and inherent worth of every individual living with autism. She emphasized that every child on the autism spectrum possesses unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that enrich society, calling for greater acceptance, inclusion, and equal rights beyond limitations.

The wife of the Governor further observed that many individuals with autism continue to face challenges ranging from societal misunderstanding and stigma to limited access to quality care, education, and support systems. According to her, the day serves as a reminder that awareness alone is not sufficient, stressing the need for deliberate action towards inclusion, support, and meaningful engagement.

Reiterating her advocacy, she stated that autism is neither a spiritual condition nor a limitation, but a different way of experiencing the world that can be managed with early intervention, specialized care, understanding, and unconditional love. She affirmed that the You Matter Charity Foundation remains committed to addressing these challenges by providing hope, creating enabling environments, and supporting vulnerable individuals and their families.

Deaconess Oborevwori added that although awareness about autism remains relatively low in many communities, the foundation has intensified efforts across the state through school visits, medical outreaches, and the distribution of learning aids. She appreciated parents, caregivers, partners, and supporters for their dedication, assuring that their labour of love will not go unrewarded, while encouraging collective action to build a more inclusive society where individuals with autism can thrive and express themselves freely.

Speakers at the event delivered goodwill messages highlighting the unique potential and value of each child living with autism. Emphasizing that differences are strengths rather than limitations, they encouraged society to provide opportunities for children to grow at their own pace with patience, support, and love.

The State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education Dr Kingsley Ashibogwu commended the First Lady for her support for the children with living with autism. He assured that the new Federal Government curriculum would be domesticated in the state and will include provisions designed to meet the unique needs of children with special needs.

Abinoma Debbie Omomizee, representing teachers and caregivers, advocated for the inclusion of both verbal and non-verbal children in diverse activities, stressing the importance of consistent encouragement to help them realize their talents. Mrs. Ekama Egomioan, a parent, highlighted acceptance as the first step toward progress, noting that the home remains the foundation for nurturing confidence and growth.

Patience Ozokwor, speaking on behalf of the actors and actresses present, called for sustained support for children living with autism, urging parents and caregivers to remain patient and intentional while allowing the children to develop at their own pace.

The event also featured performance and presentations by children and Young adult living with autism, induction of ambassadors for Autism awareness by Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori who also presented learning aids such as smart Android tablets, choice toys and others gift items to the children.

Matriculation: Kwale Varsity Kicks Off, As VC Gets Assurances of FG’s Support

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The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the growth and development of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, Delta State.

The minister gave the assurance during the institution’s maiden matriculation ceremony held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at its permanent site in Kwale.

Represented by Mrs. Folashade Boriowo, the minister congratulated the pioneer students on their successful admission and urged them to remain dedicated to the ideals of the university.

In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Salisu Banye, commended the courage of the pioneer students and encouraged them to take advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to ease their academic pursuits.

He noted that beneficiaries of the scheme stand a better chance of securing Federal Government jobs after graduation, which would enable them to repay the loans.

Dr. Banye also assured stakeholders that the university would remain focused on its mission and appealed to the Delta State Government to fulfil its promise of providing buses for the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abel Onunu, lauded President Bola Tinubu for his consistent funding of the university since its establishment.

He emphasized the institution’s commitment to producing globally competitive graduates grounded in discipline, excellence, and integrity.

Prof. Onunu also expressed appreciation to former Deputy Senate President, Barr. Augustine Ovie Omo-Agege, for his pivotal role in establishing the university, noting that the institution has brought pride and relief to the Ndokwa people, who contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.

Highlighting the university’s achievements since inception, the Vice-Chancellor listed the successful completion of administrative processes, staff recruitment, resource verification, admission of pioneer students, and commencement of academic activities.

He added that the institution has fostered strong relationships with its host community, attracting support from stakeholders and philanthropists, while ongoing infrastructural development at the permanent site continues to progress steadily.

The matriculation ceremony featured a lecture delivered by Dr. Austin Avuru, Chairman of AA Holdings and Co-founder and pioneer CEO of Platform Petroleum Limited and Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc.

The event was coordinated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Nekwu Okolugbo, and the Registrar, Mr. Lucky Ohwojeroh Mustapha.

Again, Pat Umunna Makes COHEADs Excos, Vows To Herald Strategic Communication As The PRO

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By Enitan Abel Johngold

A seasoned administrator and communications strategist, Mrs Patricia Nkiru Umunna, has emerged as the new Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Committee of Heads of Federal Government Establishments (COHEADS), Delta State chapter.

Mrs Umunna, who currently serves as Deputy Director, Human Resources Management (HRM) at the National Orientation Agency (NOA), was overwhelmingly elected during the committee’s meeting held in Asaba on Tuesday.

Her emergence has been widely applauded by colleagues and stakeholders, who describe her as an astute administrator with a proven track record of excellence in public service. Known for her professionalism, diligence, and interpersonal skills, Mrs Umunna is regarded as a leader who commands both respect and admiration.

A graduate of the University of Benin, she has steadily built a reputation for effective administration and strategic communication within the NOA in Delta State. Observers note that her wealth of experience in human resource management and public engagement uniquely positions her to succeed in her new role.

Pundits within COHEADS expressed confidence in her ability to elevate the image and visibility of the committee, citing her “Midas touch” and results-driven approach to assignments. Many believe her emergence signals a new era of proactive communication and strengthened institutional relationships for the body.

Speaking shortly after her election, Mrs Umunna, who was two-time Welfare Officer and immediate past Ex-officio of COHEADs, expressed gratitude to members for the confidence reposed in her, pledging to deploy her expertise to enhance information dissemination and promote the ideals of COHEADS across the state.

She also emphasized the importance of synergy among federal establishments, noting that effective communication remains key to achieving organizational goals and fostering public trust.

Other officials elected alongside her include President, Engr Kennedy Onyenobi; Vice President, Mrs Darling Chima Ononiwu; Secretary, Mr Felix Ijomah; Assistant Secretary, Ms Odiyoma Lucia; Financial Secretary, Mrs Ogochukwu Anoliefoh; Treasurer, Mrs Ozulumba Eucharia; Legal Adviser, Barr Osita; Welfare Officer, Mrs Nkechi Ilonze; as well as Ex-Officio members, Mr Obasaju Emmanuel and Mr Ikechukwu Ogbu.

With her emergence, expectations are high that Mrs Umunna will bring her wealth of experience, passion, and administrative acumen to bear in projecting the activities and achievements of COHEADS Delta State to greater heights.

FG Awards ₦2.25bn to 45 Student-Led Startups Under Venture Capital Grant Scheme

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The Federal Government has disbursed ₦2.25 billion in venture capital grants to 45 student-led startups selected from across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions under the Student Venture Capital Grant (S-VCG) programme. The beneficiaries emerged from a pool of 65 shortlisted student innovators, who were earlier selected from over 30,000 applicants across more than 400 universities, polytechnics and colleges nationwide. The awards were presented at the UNDP Innovation Hub in Ikoyi, Lagos, marking the culmination of the programme’s first cohort aimed at supporting student entrepreneurs with up to ₦50 million each in equity-free funding to scale their ideas into viable businesses.

The initiative is being implemented by the Federal Ministry of Education, with support from partners including the Bank of Industry (BOI), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and global technology stakeholders. According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the programme represents a major shift in Nigeria’s education policy, repositioning tertiary institutions as centres of innovation, enterprise and economic development rather than just certification hubs.

The 45 winning ventures were selected after completing an intensive venture development bootcamp held from March 26 to March 29, 2026, where the finalists refined their ideas, participated in entrepreneurship workshops and pitched their startups before a panel of industry experts and investors. Final selections were based on the scalability, feasibility and societal impact of each innovation, with many of the projects leveraging technology such as artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges.

The programme targets full-time students in Nigerian tertiary institutions, particularly those developing solutions in key sectors including technology, agriculture, healthcare and sustainability. By providing funding, incubation support, mentorship and access to digital tools, the S-VCG is designed to help students move from campus ideas to commercially viable enterprises, while building a pipeline of young innovators capable of driving economic diversification.

The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to harness Nigeria’s youthful population for innovation-driven growth.

The scheme will enable graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers, strengthen Nigeria’s startup ecosystem and position the country as a hub for youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship.

JUST IN: Embattled Power Minister Adelabu Resigns Following Persistent Nationwide Electricity Failure

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Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu,  has resigned following months of nationwide electricity failures that triggered widespread public frustration, high cost of living and doing business, political pressure, and calls for accountability across the country.

For several months, Nigeria has faced severe and persistent power outages affecting households, businesses, and public institutions. Electricity generation has reportedly fluctuated between 2,000 and 4,000 megawatts, far below the amount required to serve the country’s population of more than 250 million people.

The unreliable supply disrupted manufacturing, increased operational costs for businesses dependent on diesel generators, touched off inflation and worsened living conditions for millions of citizens. The crisis was widely described as a national emergency undermining economic activity and daily life, and that which entreats nothing less than urgent attention, but the reverse is the case.

As blackouts spread across multiple states, public anger intensified. Civil society groups, opposition figures, and energy experts openly demanded the removal of the power minister, arguing that the government had failed to stabilize the electricity sector.

Pressure on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mounted steadily, with critics insisting that leadership changes were necessary to restore confidence in Nigeria’s energy policy.

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights and other advocacy groups rejected Adelabu’s earlier apology over the outages, describing it as insufficient in addressing the depth of the crisis.

It should be noted that before his resignation, Adelabu had issued a public apology to Nigerians, acknowledging the hardship caused by the electricity shortages and citing gas supply constraints and technical challenges as contributing factors.

However, the apology failed to calm public dissatisfaction. The continued instability in power generation and distribution kept pressure on the administration to act decisively.

Facing mounting criticism and the ongoing collapse of electricity reliability, Adelabu ultimately stepped down, stating that his resignation was necessary to allow the government to pursue new leadership and reforms in the sector.

Energy analysts say the resignation highlights deeper structural issues within Nigeria’s power sector, which includes but not limited to weak generation capacity, gas supply shortages to power plants, transmission bottlenecks and financial instability in the electricity market

Experts argue that leadership change alone will not resolve the crisis. Long‑term reforms, infrastructure investment, and improved regulatory coordination will be required to stabilize electricity supply and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s power system.

For millions of Nigerians who have endured months of darkness and rising energy costs, the resignation marks a political turning point—but the real test will be whether meaningful reforms follow.

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