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)

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Delta State has passed a vote of no confidence on the Engr. Austine Okolie–led executive committee, dissolving the structure and inaugurating a new leadership.

At a state meeting held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Warri, party members drawn from all 25 local government areas accused Okolie of incompetence, anti-party activities, and deliberate efforts to weaken the opposition.

The motion was moved by Hon. Alex Edumegbe from Warri South, who recalled Okolie’s refusal to attend a reception meeting on August 9 to welcome decampees from PDP, APGA, Labour Party, and NNPP into the ADC, despite the presence of Elder Igbenoba, the party’s National Executive Whip.

He described the chairman’s conduct as sabotage. Backing the motion, Hon. Confidence Okeyebulor from Ika North East alleged that Okolie supported Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the last election despite ADC having its own governorship candidate, Amb. Shedrack Ekure.

Similarly, Mr. Godwin from Burutu insisted that Okolie had never shown interest in building the ADC into a formidable political party.

Hon. Felix Ogbodu added that retaining him as chairman would destroy the party before 2027.

Other accusations included inferiority complex, fear of losing grip of the party to new members, and gross incompetence.

The motion was unanimously adopted, and a new working state executive was inaugurated.

The new leadership includes Hon. Barbar Ebimowei as Chairman, Chief Sunday Asurai as Deputy Chairman, Okoyoyo Regina as Women Leader, and Jacob Nwanzekwu as Publicity Secretary.

Others are Mr. Lucky as Secretary, alongside new officials for Financial Secretary, Youth Leader, and Treasurer.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Ebimowei thanked members for the confidence reposed in him and promised not to disappoint.

He stressed that membership cards would be free and called for unity and solidarity among members.

On his part, the new Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jacob Nwanzekwu, reminded members of the task ahead to unseat the incumbent government in Delta State adding that the ADC was prepared to meet the challenge.

Public concern is mounting across Nigeria as journalist and human-rights advocate Fejiro Oliver remains in police custody more than 148 hours after his arrest, with many citizens accusing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of failing to speak out.

Oliver, a well-known investigative reporter and activist, was reportedly picked up in Abuja by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department and flown to Asaba, Delta State, on the orders of political figures in the state. Family members and colleagues say they have not been informed of the exact charges against him or the location of his detention.

Residents of Delta State and civil-society groups are calling on President Tinubu to personally intervene, citing his own history as a pro-democracy campaigner during Nigeria’s military era.
“President Tinubu built his reputation on fighting injustice,” one activist said. “It is shocking to see such silence while a journalist is held without explanation.”

Commentators note that Tinubu, as a young activist and later a prominent opposition leader, often challenged military governments and championed free expression. Critics argue that the current situation contradicts those values and risks chilling press freedom nationwide.

Rights groups have warned that Oliver’s prolonged detention without charge violates constitutional guarantees and Nigeria’s international obligations. They have demanded his immediate release or that he be promptly arraigned in court.

The Presidency and the Nigeria Police Force have yet to issue an official statement on Oliver’s case.

By Shulamite Owhoekevbo 

The Delta State Government has stepped up its campaign for a more professional look in its workforce, briefing top officials on a newly revised dress code while highlighting ongoing measures to improve staff welfare.

At a virtual sensitisation session with Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Inter-Ministerial Departments and senior officers of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Head of Service Dr. Mininim Oseji said the updated directive—contained in a September 10, 2025 circular—replaces the 2009 guidelines and sets clear standards for office attire.

“This meeting ensures that every civil servant understands and implements the revised code,” Oseji explained, noting that a five-member committee reviewed the old policy to meet present-day workplace expectations.

She praised Information Commissioner Charles Aniagwu for reinforcing the government’s stance during a recent press briefing and urged Permanent Secretaries to educate their staff accordingly. Employees with genuine concerns, she added, are encouraged to submit constructive feedback to the Office of the Head of Service.

Supporting remarks came from Barrister Omamuzo Erebe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, and Dr. Paul Okubor, Permanent Secretary of the Hospitals Management Board, who both said the policy simply reflects the responsibility of public officers to project the state’s image with dignity.

Dr. Oseji also used the platform to spotlight Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s civil-service friendly initiatives: prompt and regular salary payments, implementation of the ₦77,500 minimum wage since October 2024, a rotational work schedule for staff on Grade Levels 1–14, payment of ₦5 billion in promotion arrears, and ongoing town-hall engagements with workers.

Other achievements of her office include Breakfast Dialogue Sessions with MDAs, interactive training assessments with cash prizes, revival of Civil Service Week, provision of official staff buses, agricultural promotion among public officers, and creation of a whistle-blower line to guard against financial misconduct.

Dr. Oseji concluded that the Revised Dress Code is “not just about appearance, but about professionalism and the pride of representing Delta State.”

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The Area Commander of Ughelli, ACP Aliyu Shaba, has issued a stern warning to cultists and individuals in possession of illegal firearms, urging them to surrender their weapons within three months or risk being treated as criminals.

ACP Shaba gave the warning during his working visit to the Agbarho Divisional Police Headquarters in Ughelli North Local Government Area on Thursday, a visit that also coincided with the inauguration of the newly elected Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Agbarho Division Executive Council.

Addressing stakeholders including sister agencies, traditional council representatives, community leaders, youth leaders, women and PCRC members, Shaba noted that; “No Criminal Can Escape My Tracking”, the Area Commander cautioned against shielding cultists or illegal gun owners.

He recalled his track record of recovering 11 AK-47 rifles and other assorted weapons during his tenure as DPO of Ekpan Police Station, vowing to replicate similar results in Ughelli.

“Tell your children I am giving them three months to submit their weapons. If they refuse, I will go after them like common criminals. When it comes to tracking criminals, no one beats my record. Even if you drop your phone or remove your SIM cards, I will still track you down,” he declared.

He further cited high-profile cases he handled in Akwukwu-Igbo, Otokutu, Udu, and Bayelsa State, stressing that cultism and gun-running would no longer be tolerated in Ughelli.

ACP Shaba also cautioned against lobbying for the release of arrested suspects, warning that such pleas could strain his respect for community leaders.

While describing the visit as part of his routine on-the-spot assessment of police divisions, ACP Shaba applauded the cordial relationship between the Agbarho Division and its host community. He appealed for stronger collaboration with the President General (PG) of Agbarho, traditional institutions, and vigilante groups, noting that collective action was key to reducing crime to the barest minimum.

The Commander highlighted the dangers of drug abuse among youths, revealing that the police recently recovered hard drugs worth ₦80 million from a woman in Ughelli. He also disclosed that drug dealers now conceal narcotics in unconventional items such as first aid boxes.

“Residents must expose those engaged in the illicit drug trade. The police cannot win this fight alone. Community information will remain confidential, but cooperation is vital,” he urged.

ACP Shaba charged DPOs to ensure professionalism among officers, stressing the need for respect of human rights, fair handling of cases, and strengthening of community relations.

Earlier, the Divisional Police Officer of Agbarho, CSP Pius Eredei, described the visit as a strategic familiarization tour that provided an opportunity for on-the-spot assessment. He acknowledged violent crimes associated with the area while highlighting challenges faced by the Division, including manpower shortage, inadequate accommodation, vehicles, and operational tools.

He appealed for collective collaboration from community leaders, elders, sister security agencies, and volunteers to enhance security in the Division.

The visit also featured the formal inauguration of the newly elected 18-man PCRC Agbarho Division Executive Council. Among those inaugurated were:

Pastor Kesiena Nomuoja – Chairman

Sir Mathias Akatugba – Vice Chairman

Barr. (Mrs.) Flora Fiyebo – Secretary

Mr. Lucky Ubuinoh – Deputy Secretary

Mr. Benson Ejeghotan – Treasurer

The PCRC also issued certificates to newly inducted patrons, with Chief J.O. Ojoba, a member of the Agbarho Traditional Council, announced as the first patron.

The event was well attended by community stakeholders, traditional leaders, and security operatives, reinforcing a collective resolve to tackle insecurity in Ughelli and its environs.

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, has commended the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and its alumni for their enduring legacy of academic excellence, urging them to remain ambassadors of distinction and continue projecting the institution as Nigeria’s pride.

The monarch gave the commendation when he received members of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Asaba Chapter, who paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in the Delta State capital.

In his address, the revered royal father lauded the institution’s impact on the Nigerian educational landscape, stressing that UNILAG graduates embody a “unique emblem of distinction.”

“We have imbibed and internalized values in the course of our journey. Let the world see the worth of our training. Let the world proclaim that yes, going to UNILAG is indeed going to the best university that Nigeria can offer,” the Asagba declared.

The monarch, himself a proud alumnus of the institution, expressed confidence that the legacy of UNILAG would continue to inspire emerging institutions, including the fast-growing Denis Osadebe University in Asaba.

He also showered royal blessings on the delegation, praying for their continued growth and success as the city prepares for the upcoming Pan-Youth Grand (PYG) Festival.

“Asaba is a land of peace and prosperity. This land blesses people. That is why the SSG can say Asaba is Makkah. The land blesses, and it is that blessing I am bestowing upon all of you,” he said.

The monarch further described Asaba as the fastest-growing state capital south of the Sahara, adding that the city continues to attract progress and prosperity for its people.

Speaking earlier, the President of the Asaba Chapter, Mr. Patrick Olisa Dibie, apologized for the delay in the courtesy visit and thanked the Asagba for his sterling contributions to law, academia, and faith. He prayed the royal father would extend the same goodwill to the Asaba Chapter of UNILAG Alumni.

The delegation, led by Dibie, included Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas, Barr. M.O. Nwamu, Elder C. Ngemegwai, Obi Henry Kikachukwu, Prof. Benjamin Oghojafor, Dr. Derick Eke, Barr. Bridget Anyafulu, Barr. Princess Ajudua, and Barr. Emmanuel Diei. They were guided by the Palace Secretary, High Chief Patrick Ndili.

During the visit, Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas presented gifts to the monarch and delivered an invitation letter from the UNILAG Alumni Association national body, requesting the Asagba’s presence in Lagos on October 12, 2025, to receive a national award.

Responding, the Asagba accepted the invitation with gratitude and pledged his continued support for the association, urging members to channel their collective strength toward the good of society.

The event, which featured cultural protocols of the Asaba Council of Chiefs, ended with royal blessings and a group photograph.

By Shulamite Owhoekevbo

The Delta State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, has congratulated the Permanent Secretary in the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Angalaere Arthur Prest-Umukoro, on her retirement from the state civil service after 34 years of dedicated service.

Mrs. Prest-Umukoro, who paid a courtesy visit to formally announce her disengagement, expressed gratitude to the Head of Service for her unwavering support and encouragement throughout her career. She described her journey in the service as fulfilling and thanked God for the grace to retire in good health.

In her remarks, Dr. Oseji commended the retiring Permanent Secretary for her diligence, administrative competence, and meritorious service in various ministries and directorates. She noted that Mrs. Prest-Umukoro had consistently demonstrated professionalism and leadership since her appointment as a Director, her elevation to Permanent Secretary in 2018, and her subsequent posting to the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, where she served until her retirement.

“I am delighted that you have recovered sufficiently from your health challenges to be here today,” Dr. Oseji said, adding that her contributions to the civil service remain exemplary.

Recalling her career journey, Mrs. Prest-Umukoro stated that, she began her journey in the Civil Service with the defunct Bendel State Civil Service Commission (CSC) on October 22, 1990, and upon the creation of Delta State, she moved to Asaba where her remarkable career continued. In 1992, she was converted to Finance Officer II and posted to the Directorate of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. There, she diligently served under Permanent Secretaries Owafili Lawson and later Sir Okey Ofili, laying the foundation for the sterling service that would define her career.

From 2000, she brought her expertise to the Ministry of Works, and following the restructuring that created the Ministries of Works, Transport, Energy, and Housing, she was redeployed to the Ministry of Transport where she served faithfully until 2006. Her journey later took her back to the Directorate of Local Government Affairs as Director of Administration and Finance, where her leadership and dedication left a lasting impact.

Over the years, she became a pillar in several ministries, including Information, Health, Asaba Airport, and Establishment and Pensions. Between 2011 and 2016, she was often called upon to serve as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Establishment and Pensions Department whenever the need arose. With humility and excellence, she worked under Sir Okey Ofili, Sir O. P. Origho, and later Reginald Bayoko as Heads of Service, proving herself a dependable and trusted hand in the service.

Her career reached its peak when she was posted to the Ministry of Health as Director of Administration, and on May 5, 2018, she was deservedly appointed as Permanent Secretary. She was subsequently deployed to the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, where she served with distinction until her retirement.

Her story is one of resilience, loyalty, and selfless service. Through every posting, she left behind footprints of dedication, touching lives and uplifting the institutions she was entrusted with. Hers was not just a career—it was a life of service, crowned with honor.

Offering words of advice, Mrs. Prest-Umukoro urged civil servants to always separate personal interests from official responsibilities, embrace challenges as opportunities, and prioritize mentorship as a way of grooming future leaders.

The event was graced by members of the College of Permanent Secretaries, including Mr. Maxwell Awuse (Office of the Head of Service), Prince Gregory Ejowhomu (Bureau for Special Duties), Mrs. Felicia Reno-Orugbo (Ministry of Energy), Mr. Michael Diden (Ministry of Trade and Investment), and Mr. Anthony Usenu, Director of Public Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service.