Home Blog Page 5

Apostle Kukuru Benjamin (Ebis) Commends Governor Oborevwori’s Grassroots Development Strides in Warri North

Gov Sheriff Oborevwori and Apostle Kukuru Benjamin Ebis

A respected All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, Apostle Kukuru Benjamin, popularly known as Ebis, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his exceptional leadership and the remarkable developmental strides recorded at the grassroots level since the beginning of his administration.

In a statement made available to newsmen, Apostle Benjamin, a renowned hotelier and influential business tycoon, noted that Warri North has witnessed unprecedented progress under Governor Oborevwori’s watch.

Gov Sheriff Oborevwori and Apostle Kukuru Benjamin Ebis

“Warri North has never had it this good until God blessed the State with Sheriff Oborevwori as Governor,” he declared.

Gov Sheriff Oborevwori and Apostle Kukuru Benjamin Ebis

He highlighted several of the Governor’s achievements in the area, including infrastructural improvements, enhanced security presence, and empowerment programmes targeted at youths and women. According to him, these initiatives have significantly improved the living standards of residents and strengthened community development.

Apostle Benjamin further praised Governor Oborevwori for running an inclusive government that transcends party lines, stressing that development should not be viewed through a political lens.

Apostle Kukuru Benjamin Ebis

“Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated that he is a leader for all Deltans, irrespective of political affiliation. What matters most is the welfare of the people, and he has shown genuine commitment to this,” he added.

Apostle Kukuru Benjamin Ebis

He urged traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and residents of Warri North to continue supporting the Governor’s vision for a more prosperous and united Delta State.

Apostle Kukuru Benjamin Ebis

“With unity and collective effort, we can sustain this momentum and make Warri North a model of development in the state,” Apostle Benjamin concluded.

Signed:
Media Office of Apostle Kukuru Benjamin (Ebis)
Warri North, Delta State.

Delta Govt Trains Civil Servants on Data Analysis and Visualization to Boost Efficiency

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

In a bid to enhance effective planning, decision-making, and service delivery, the Delta State Ministry of Economic Planning, in collaboration with Universal Investment and Development Company Limited (UIDC), on Thursday commenced a three-day intensive workshop on Data Analysis and Visualization for selected civil servants in the state.

The capacity-building programme is holding at the 6th Floor of the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat, Mariam Babangida Way, Asaba, and is designed to equip participants with modern digital skills required to process and interpret data for informed governance.

Declaring the workshop open on behalf of the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, the Director of Statistics in the Ministry, Ms. Nkechi Maduemezia, underscored the critical role of data in modern governance, describing it as “the new oil” that drives strategic development.

“Data is information. Data is life. Data is the future,” she said. “Analysis is talking to the data, and visualization allows you to see and interact with it without being physically present. With the right data tools, decisions can be made faster and more accurately, even by non-technical users.”

Maduemezia, a member of both the Computer Professionals of Nigeria and the Nigerian Statistical Association, urged participants to pay keen attention, ask questions, and fully engage in the sessions. According to her, embracing data technology would make civil servants more agile and capable of supporting decision-makers through clear, visualized insights.

In his remarks, Dr. Timothy Igbinosa, Head of Corporate Strategy and Planning, represented by Mr. Godwin Mukoro, CEO of UIDC, emphasized the urgency for public servants to embrace digital transformation.

“We live in a digital age, phones, vehicles, the internet, everything is driven by technology,” Mukoro said. “We must intentionally run fast to catch up with global civilization. The gap we discovered between current practices and modern data analysis methods inspired this workshop. We must not be left behind.”

He identified three categories of civil servants in the digital era: those with little or no capacity for digital tools, those who know the tools but fail to apply them, and the very few who effectively utilize them. He challenged participants to “think outside the box, change templates, and drive innovation” within the public service for better policy outcomes.

Also speaking, Mr. Gbe Lewis, a capital market consultant, reaffirmed UIDC’s commitment to supporting the state through training and capacity development initiatives.

“UIDC is a finance and management development company owned by the Delta State Government and supervised by the Ministry of Finance. We are proud to support this workshop because data analysis and visualization are essential for growth and efficiency,” he stated.

He praised the Ministry of Economic Planning for its strategic role in driving service delivery across the state and expressed confidence that the training would significantly enhance the participants’ analytical skills.

The three-day workshop will feature practical sessions on data handling, analysis, and visualization tools, enabling participants to better support government planning and policy formulation through evidence-based decision-making.

Delta SUBEB Addresses Viral Video on Pupils Sitting on Floor, Showcases Massive School Infrastructure Drive

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

A recent viral video showing pupils sitting on the bare floor at Eghreka Primary School in Ewu, Ughelli South Local Government Area, has sparked mixed reactions across social media. While many expressed outrage over the condition of the pupils, the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has moved to clarify the situation, describing the video as politically motivated and shedding light on the significant strides the state has made in boosting basic education infrastructure.

Speaking through a press statement in Asaba, the Board emphasized that the State Government under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has made unprecedented investments in classrooms, desks, and learning facilities, ensuring a more conducive environment for thousands of pupils across the state.

SUBEB

“Ordinarily, the Board would not have responded because it is more of political, but to keep the records straight, it has become necessary to brief the press on the true situation of things and the ongoing efforts to improve basic education,” the statement said.

In the current year alone, SUBEB disclosed that over 16,000 dual desks have been constructed and distributed to schools across Delta. This figure does not include additional furniture provided through constituency projects of lawmakers, interventions by other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and contributions from corporate organizations.

In the area of infrastructure, the Board reported the construction of 234 new classrooms — 162 delivered under the 2024 UBE Intervention Fund and 72 completed by the Delta State Government. An additional 24 classrooms were still under construction at the time of reporting.

These interventions, SUBEB noted, have drastically reduced classroom congestion, improved safety, and expanded enrolment opportunities in both rural and urban communities.

Complementing these efforts, the state has constructed 22 perimeter block walls and gatehouses, renovated five others, built 164 VIP toilets, and installed five solar-powered boreholes to enhance sanitation and water supply. Teachers’ welfare has also been addressed through the construction of 10 staff quarters, while pupils benefitted from 16,834 units of furniture, maintenance of 4,000 more, and 50 double bunk beds with foams to support boarding facilities.

The Board acknowledged that despite these investments, a recent needs assessment revealed that some schools still face furniture shortages. Out of 1,141 public primary schools in the state, about 30% of furniture must be replaced annually, largely due to misuse and vandalism.

Chairs and desks are often taken away during community events such as burials and football matches, left exposed to theft and weather damage. Some are maliciously destroyed, with metal frames sold to scavengers, while pupils’ rough usage also contributes to wear and tear.

In response to the immediate needs, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the provision of 1,000 seats to schools in critical condition. Additionally, over 16,000 more dual desks are planned under the 2025 UBE projects, with contracts expected to be awarded before the year ends.

In a separate development, SUBEB announced that the Basic Schools Sports Programme will commence on October 9, 2025, across all 25 local government areas of the state, in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

The grand finale is scheduled for October 22, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

Pinnick Foods Showcases Nigerian Flavour, Unveils Instant Party Jollof Blend at Canada-Africa Summit

In a bold step towards taking Nigerian cuisine to the global stage, Pinnick Foods Ltd, a Canada-based food innovation company co-founded by Amaju Melvin Pinnick, OON, Special Adviser to the President of CAF and former NFF President, and entrepreneur Jaygbes Napoleon Ogbole, has unveiled its flagship product, the Instant Party Jollof Blend, at the Canada-Africa Economic and Cultural Summit 2025.

The high-profile event, held at the Rose Theatre in Brampton, brought together global leaders, policymakers, business executives and cultural influencers under the theme “Bridging Continents, Building Futures.”

Among the dignitaries present were Hon. Shafqat Ali, MP and President of the Treasury Board Canada; Hon. Graham McGregor, Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism; Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton; Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, OON, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission; and Michael Odere, Commissioner for Finance, Cross River State, Nigeria.

Made from 100% natural spices, the Instant Party Jollof Blend delivers the authentic, smoky taste of Nigerian party Jollof rice in minutes, free from artificial preservatives. Describing the product as a “cultural ambassador,” CEO Jaygbes Napoleon Ogbole said the innovation will give Nigerian food the same global platform enjoyed by Nollywood and Afrobeats.

Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who led the official unveiling, praised the product’s aroma and colour, describing it as “nothing short of amazing.” Michael Odere commended the milestone, noting its potential to boost food innovation and cultural export.

Organized by Maryam Muritala of CanadaVendors, with support from partners including the Pan African Arts, Culture and Trade Institute (PAACATI) and the Network of Nigerians in Canada (NNC), the summit highlighted Africa’s creative potential while fostering investment and cultural exchange.

Stella Aghoghovia Hails Tinubu, Oborevwori for Bold Reforms Women’s League Mobilises Early Support Ahead of 2027 Elections, Calls for Igbudu Market Reorganisation

By Oritsejafor Kenneth

A frontline All Progressives Congress (APC) woman leader and convener of a vibrant women’s political league, Chief Stella Aghoghovia, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for their bold and reformative economic policies, which she says have significantly transformed both the national and Delta State economies.

Chief Aghoghovia, who played a pivotal role in mobilising grassroots support that contributed to President Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 general elections, made these remarks during an interactive session with journalists in Warri, Delta State.

Speaking on the activities of her women’s political group, Chief Aghoghovia explained that since the 2023 elections, she has successfully maintained strong political and social bonds within the group, ensuring it remains intact, active, and ready to mobilise once again in support of the President and the Governor ahead of the 2027 elections.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu

“Our women are enthusiastic and fully prepared to work tirelessly to ensure the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in 2027,” she said.

Assessing the performance of both leaders, she praised their reform-driven policies, describing them as bold steps that have strengthened the national economy and revitalised Delta State’s economic landscape.

She noted that although prices of goods and essential commodities rose sharply when President Tinubu assumed office in 2023, his reform policies have started stabilising the economy, with prices gradually adjusting. She also lauded Governor Oborevwori for his remarkable infrastructural development efforts across the state.

Chief Aghoghovia further commended President Tinubu for his gender-friendly leadership, noting that women appointed to key positions in his administration have continued to deliver impressive results.

She, however, urged Governor Oborevwori to urgently address the chaotic arrangement at Igbudu Market in Warri South Local Government Area, warning that the current state of the market poses serious risks to both traders and buyers.

“The Igbudu Market arrangement has become choking and unsafe. The government needs to take proactive steps to reorganise it for the safety and convenience of everyone,” she advised.

On her personal political plans, Chief Aghoghovia clarified that she has no intention of contesting any elective office. Instead, her focus remains on organising and strengthening her women’s political league to play a strategic grassroots role in ensuring the re-election of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori in 2027.

Pathway to Dignity: NAS Vito Corsica and Saxon Decks Lead Bold March Against Drug Abuse and Homelessness in Asaba

NAS

By Enitan Abel Johngold Orheruata, mnipr

On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the bustling city of Asaba, Delta State, was transformed into a moving canvas of hope and determination as members of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) — Vito Corsica Deck and Saxon Deck — took to the streets in a spirited march against drug abuse and homelessness.

NAS campaign Against Drugs Abuse

With bold banners and clear voices, participants carried a simple but powerful message through major streets and notorious flashpoints:
👉 “Say No to Drug Abuse — Embrace the Pathway to Dignity.”

The campaign formed part of a global directive from the NAS Capoon, aimed at mobilizing communities across the world to confront the growing challenges of drug abuse and homelessness. In Asaba, the march was not just a procession — it was a call to conscience, a deliberate attempt to shine light on an issue that continues to silently destroy lives and communities.

As the crowd moved from one location to another, onlookers paused to listen. At each flashpoint, where illicit drugs are known to circulate, NAS members and their partners engaged with residents, urging them to reject substance abuse and embrace healthier, more purposeful lives.

The strength of the campaign lay in its collaboration. Officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) marched shoulder-to-shoulder with NAS members, underscoring the shared responsibility of curbing the menace. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) joined the procession, bringing a sense of order and national solidarity.

Women’s groups such as the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and Fifty-Fifty Women, led by Comrade Mrs. Patricia Gbemudu, lent their voices passionately, while members of the Liber Book Club added intellectual energy to the cause.

The campaign’s impact had already begun two days earlier, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, with a live radio sensitization program aired on DBS Asaba 97.9FM. Anchored by Comrade Toju Edmo Tuoyo, the program brought together voices of authority and experience: Comrade Tracy Omamode Ikolomi, Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Delta State Directorate, and Dr. Tony Elebe, a Consultant Psychiatrist with the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba.

Comrade Mrs Tracy Omamode Ikolomi (NOA Delta State Director), Comrade Toju Edmo Tuoyo (Manager Program DBS Asaba), Publicist Enitan Abel Johngold (NAS Member) and Dr. Tony Enebe (Psychiatrist Consultant with FMC Asaba) during the NAS Campaign Against Drugs Abuse and Homelessness on Delta Radio

They unpacked the dangers of drug abuse, discussed practical solutions, and emphasized the role of family and community support. Both guests commended NAS for initiating the advocacy, noting that sustained community action is key to reversing dangerous trends.

Representing the Association on the show, Enitan Abel Johngold Orheruata, mnipr, described the “National Campaign Against Drug Abuse & Homelessness” as a humanitarian initiative anchored on the theme “Pathway to Dignity.”

The campaign’s objectives are clear:

Raise awareness about drug abuse and homelessness.

Provide support and resources to affected individuals and families.

Advocate for policies and programs that address these challenges.

Shift public perception from stigma to support through education.

The march ended, but its echoes lingered in the streets and in the hearts of those who witnessed it. For many, it was a wake-up call — a reminder that drug abuse is not a distant problem but a reality that demands community-wide attention.

Through their actions, NAS Vito Corsica and Saxon Decks demonstrated that when communities unite with purpose, they can create real and lasting change. Their march through Asaba was not just a campaign — it was a pathway to dignity, hope, and a healthier future.

Delta Police Cage Journalist: Citizens Fight Back

Nigeria Police Force, NPF

Concerned citizens and human rights advocates have demanded the immediate release of investigative journalist Fejiro Oliver, describing his detention by the Delta State Police Command as unlawful and politically motivated.

At a press briefing in Asaba, civic leaders, including Barr. Omes Ogedegbe of the Confab for the Actualization of Human Rights, Comrade Dr. Akima Kelly Umukoro of the Urhobo Progress Union Youth Wing, and Daniel Etaga, former President of the Niger Delta Youth Council, condemned what they called the “weaponization of the police against dissenting voices.”

They issued a 7-hour ultimatum: release Fejiro unconditionally, grant him bail, or charge him to court, or face legal and civil action.

The activists accused police of abandoning genuine petitions and instead confronting Fejiro with old Facebook posts, many unrelated to any formal complaint.

“Law enforcement agencies are supposed to be impartial umpires. Instead, the Delta Police have turned themselves into tools of personal revenge.” — Barr. Ogedegbe

Fejiro Oliver, who calls himself a “secret reporter,” is known for fearless investigative work that unsettles politicians and the powerful. His supporters insist his ordeal is not about law, but about silencing a critical voice.

“Who is afraid of Fejiro Oliver? If there are genuine allegations, why was he not investigated before being arrested?” — Comrade Akima.

The civic leaders noted that the 24–48 hour constitutional window for arraignment has expired, yet Fejiro has been held for over two weeks without trial.

Etaga described his confinement under the Anti-Kidnapping Unit as “inhumane,” alleging denial of meals, visits, and unrestricted communication.

“This is persecution, not prosecution—it is an attempt to intimidate opposition voices in Delta State.” — Daniel Etaga

The coalition urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori not to allow state institutions to be hijacked for intimidation.

“The money being spent in government is not their father’s money—it belongs to the people.” — Comrade Akima

They dismissed the petitions against Fejiro as “watery” and argued that if cyberbullying was truly at issue, it should be tested in open court.

Who Is Fejiro Oliver?

Fejiro Oliver is an investigative journalist and activist, branding himself as a “secret reporter.” Known for fearless exposés of corruption and abuse of office, his reports have unsettled the powerful and sparked heated debates.

Supporters hail him as a watchdog for accountability. Critics accuse him of being too confrontational. Now, his detention has turned into a test case for press freedom and human rights in Delta State.

Day of Arrest: Picked up by Delta Police, placed under Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

First Days: Denied food, visits, and open communication.

Public Outcry: Rights groups demand access; limited communication later allowed.

Allegations: Police confront him with old Facebook posts instead of clear petitions.

Two Weeks Later: Still detained, well beyond the 24–48 hour constitutional window.

Press Conference: Civic leaders issue 7-hour ultimatum.

Present: All eyes on Delta Police—will they release him or escalate the crisis?

Hope for Education: NBM of Africa Renovates Delta School, Donates Learning Materials to Pupils

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

Agbowhiame community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State was thrown into celebration at the weekend as the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) of Africa, commissioned a newly renovated block of six classrooms at Agbowhiame Primary School, bringing relief, pride, and renewed hope to the community.

The commissioning ceremony, which attracted traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, and residents, was described as a landmark moment in the pursuit of quality education for children in the locality.

In his address, the national President of NBM of Africa, Dr. Charles Chimezie, said the project was more than just a renovation but a symbol of hope and opportunity for pupils of Agbowhiame.

NBM National President in a photograph with pupils

“What we see here is not just a renovated building. It is a powerful message that every child matters. This school is our promise to the children of Agbowhiame — we see you, we believe in you, and your dreams are valid,” he said.

Dr. Chimezie highlighted NBM’s commitment to humanitarian service, recalling the group’s interventions during floods in Nigeria, palliatives given to the displaced people of Okuama community, and relief donations in Borno State. He listed the items provided to Agbowhiame Primary School to include:

125 school desks, 150 school uniforms, 500 notebooks, Replacement of all windows and doors, New roofs and ceilings, Complete flooring and full painting of classrooms and surroundings

According to him, education remains at the heart of NBM’s mission, aligning with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s RENEWED HOPE FOR MORE Agenda of improving education and infrastructure across Delta State.

In his remarks, Delta State Chairman Universal Basic Education Board ( SUBEB), Hon, Samuel Mariere, commended the members of the NBM for the initiative to renovate the school, noting that the gesture was aimed at completing the efforts of the state government in upgrading educational infrastructure and standards of education in the state.

Hon. Mariere, who applauded NBM leadership for this humanitarian gesture in the community, said that with this project the group had keyed into the MORE Agenda program of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to give education its pride of place.

The Chairman who was represented at the occasion by Mr. Simon Akpogherhe, 2nd Member in SUBEB Board, expressed gratitude to NBM members for embarking on such humanitarian project aimed at uplifting standard of education in the community, noting that by this singular act, the Board had been challenged to do more in the school.

According to him: “I’ve listened to request of the Head Teacher and I can assure you today that the Board will see to it that these request are met. I have a Chairman who is very hard working and committed to improving the wellbeing of pupils in our schools. I would take all your request to him and am very optimistic that he would approve them to compliment the efforts of NBM in this school”.

In his speech at the occasion, the President-General of Agbowhiame Community, Mr. Emmanuel Osieta, expressed deep gratitude to NBM for their generosity and commitment to the future of the children.

“With the renovation of these classrooms, we are not just improving our facilities; we are igniting hope, ambition, and a sense of belonging among our pupils,” Osieta said, while also urging parents to support their children to maximize the opportunity.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Dr. Lucky Avweromre, represented by his Vice Chairman, Hon. Happy Mukoro, commended NBM’s gesture, describing it as timely and complementary to the state government’s agenda of raising educational standards.

The Head Teacher of the school, Mr. Jacob Emakpor, who recalled the dilapidated state of the school before the intervention, appealed for additional support in fencing the compound, providing potable water, and recruiting more teachers.

In her remarks, community leader Chief (Mrs) Maria Boro applauded NBM for its selfless service, not just in Agbowhiame but across the country, urging them to sustain their passion for community development.

Other dignitaries present at the occasion were the House of Assembly member representing Ughelli South constituency, Hon. Festus Utuama and Olorogun Johnson Boro, a former Commissioner in Delta state and an elder in the community. They both joined the SUBEB Chairman and national President of NBM of Africa in commissioning the newly renovated blocks of classrooms.

The event ended with songs of joy and appreciation as pupils, teachers, and parents expressed excitement over the new look of their school, which now stands as a beacon of hope for the entire community.

End

Suspension Stirs Storm, Delta ADC Chair Scoffs

ADC

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The Delta State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Engr. Austine C. Okolie, has dismissed reports of his suspension by some individuals claiming to be members of the party, describing the move as “laughable and baseless.”

Reacting to a media statement announcing a vote of no confidence in his leadership, Engr. Okolie said those behind the claims lacked the constitutional authority to speak or take decisions on behalf of the ADC in Delta State.

“The funniest aspect of the matter is that we cannot even identify any of them as registered members of our great party in Delta State. They have never attended a single ward, local government, or state meeting of the ADC, so one wonders in what capacity they are acting,” he stated.

The chairman further queried the logic of intending members, who, according to him, have not been officially admitted into the party, claiming to pass a vote of no confidence on the leadership they are yet to be part of.

Engr. Okolie alleged that the individuals were enemies of the ADC coalition, working to sow discord and dissatisfaction within the party’s ranks. He reaffirmed that the ADC in Delta State remains focused on building a formidable and people-oriented political structure capable of winning future elections at all levels.

“We will not be distracted by unknown individuals whose only motive is to create disunity. The ADC in Delta is united, organized, and committed to the Nigeria rescue mission ahead of 2027. We remain unstoppable,” he declared.

Calling on members to remain steadfast, the chairman urged the public to disregard the announcement of a purported new leadership in Delta ADC.

“ADC Delta State is one. We are bound together with a glorious handshake of peace, and we are determined to achieve the Nigeria of our dreams come 2027,” Engr. Okolie concluded.

ADC

Farewell to a Soldier and Sportsman Extraordinaire: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Lt. Col. Walter Adim Afam Jibunoh (Rtd.)

A Tribute to My Inspirer

Death is always a painful reminder of the fleeting nature of life on earth and of how quickly even the brightest lights can fade.

It was an emotional and humbling moment for me as I watched, with helpless tears, the body of my dear uncle, Diokpa Lieutenant Colonel Walter Adim Afam Jibunoh (Rtd.), being lowered into the grave. This was not merely the passing of a beloved family member; it was the farewell to a man whose life ignited my lifelong passion for Public Relations.

As Director of Army Public Relations, my uncle was a familiar name in the media for all the right reasons, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between the Nigerian Army, the citizens of Nigeria, and the international community.

As an impressionable young boy with an insatiable interest in current affairs, I eagerly read about him in the national dailies and listened to news bulletins on the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). I was fascinated by the precision, tact, and finesse with which he managed the image and reputation of the Nigerian Army. I remember telling my mother, his cousin, that when I attain adulthood, I would like to do what he was doing for the Nigerian Army and our country.

Though I initially attempted to join the military, my preference being the Nigerian Navy, drawn by the elegance of their sparkling white uniforms. However, destiny charted a different path. I eventually found myself in another arena of life, yet still within the Public Relations profession I had admired from childhood.

To the glory of God, I have since attained excellence in this calling, culminating in my investiture as a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), a fulfilment of the dream he unknowingly planted in my heart decades ago.

Diokpa Lt. Col. Walter Jibunoh was a man of courage, great conviction, practical wisdom, and quiet strength. He carried himself with a constant smile and lived a simple, dignified life free of rancour, acrimony, and covetousness. A devoted Christian, loving family man, and gentleman to the core, he embodied discipline and grace in equal measure.

He departed this world peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, and, in accordance with his wishes, was laid to rest on Friday, September 26, 2025, at All Saints’ Church, Jericho, Ibadan, with a private interment at the church cemetery.

The traditional rites of his passage will be held in his hometown, Akwukwu-Igbo, on a date to be announced.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mrs. Gladys Jibunoh (a retired Commissioner of Police); daughter, Mrs. Sophie Nwaefulu; son, Mr. Kenechukwu Damilola Jibunoh; granddaughter, Miss Camille Isioma Nwaefulu; grandson, Engineer Deion; granddaughter, Sarah; as well as uncles, nieces, nephews, friends, and associates.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Brief Biography of Lieutenant Colonel Walter Adim Afam Jibunoh (Rtd.)

Born on September 13, 1943, in Lagos, Colonel Walter Jibunoh proudly hailed from Akwukwu-Igbo, Delta State. He attended King’s College, Lagos, where he excelled in both academics and sports, before proceeding to the University of Ibadan, where he earned a B.A. (Hons) in History. His quest for knowledge later took him to the University of Lagos, where he obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication and a Certificate in Personnel Management and Industrial Relations.

In the military, he trained at the United States Army Institute for Military Assistance, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, earning a Diploma in Psychological Operations (PSYOPS). He also distinguished himself at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, graduating from the prestigious Staff Course (psc). A lifelong learner, he was a proud member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA).

Before joining the Nigerian Army, he worked as a sports reporter and analyst in both print and broadcast media, and later as an Employee and Public Relations Assistant at Esso Oil Nigeria Limited (now Oando Plc).

His military career was remarkably defined by discipline, professionalism, and loyalty. He served as Commanding Officer, Strategic Support Group; Staff and Administrative Officer at Defence Headquarters, Lagos; Secretary to the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; and ultimately as Director of Army Public Relations. In every posting, he distinguished himself as a leader of honour and integrity.

His love for sports was legendary. At King’s College, he represented the school for five years in football, cricket, tennis, athletics, and table tennis, captaining football and serving as vice-captain of cricket and tennis. At the University of Ibadan, his brilliance earned him the coveted title of Sportsman of the Year (1967).

He went on to represent Nigeria in cricket (1965–1980), proudly flying the national flag both locally and internationally. Beyond active competition, he served as Vice-Chairman of the Nigeria Cricket Association (1984–1987) and Honorary Secretary-General of the West African Cricket Council (1981–1985). In tennis, he was equally formidable, admired for his skill, discipline, and sportsmanship.

Fondly called “Wally J” by friends, he was a vibrant socialite and an active member of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Ikoyi Club 1938, and the Ibadan Recreation Club (where he was a Life Member). He was also a proud member of the King’s College Old Boys’ Association.

For his exceptional service, he received numerous military and community honours, including the Republic Medal, the Jubilee Medal, and the Forces Service Star. He was also recognised by All Saints’ Church, Jericho, Ibadan with both its 60th Anniversary Award and Choir Anniversary Award.

His career and sporting engagements took him across Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond. He visited Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Uganda, Britain, the USA, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Trinidad & Tobago—experiences that broadened his worldview and deepened his appreciation of diverse cultures.

Above all his achievements, Colonel Jibunoh was a devoted husband, loving father, caring grandfather, and dependable uncle. He was a mentor to many, a loyal friend, and a pillar of his community. His life of humility, discipline, and warmth remains an enduring legacy.

Colonel Walter Adim Afam Jibunoh (Rtd.) lived a life of purpose, resilience, and excellence. He was a soldier who served his nation with honour, a sportsman who proudly represented Nigeria, and a family man whose values will continue to inspire generations.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
May his noble soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Godfrey C. Osakwe, fnipr
Chairman, Delta State Chapter
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)

TRENDING

LATEST