₦airaland Forum

Reps Clear Okunbor of Financial Mismanagement, Other Allegations, Recommend PINL Contract Extension

The House of Representatives Subcommittee on Host Communities has cleared the Managing Director of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Dr. Osahon Okunbor, of allegations brought against him and the company by the Niger Delta Oil-Producing Communities Reform Movement (ND-OCRIM).

In its report dated October 7, 2026, and signed by the Subcommittee Chairman, Rt. Hon. Dumanmene Dekor, the lawmakers declared the allegations unsubstantiated and recommended the dismissal of the petition and discontinuation of further investigation.

The petition, dated September 5, 2026, accused PINL of improper implementation of its pipeline surveillance contract, mismanagement of contract funds and neglect of surveillance personnel's welfare. It also raised allegations concerning personal expenditure linked to Okunbor and demanded a forensic review of the company's finances.

However, the subcommittee found no evidence supporting the allegations, noting that the petitioners failed to honour three separate invitations on September 14, September 22 and October 5, 2026, despite being given opportunities to substantiate their claims.

PINL, on its part, appeared before the lawmakers and submitted documentary and geotagged photographic evidence detailing its operations and achievements.

The report specifically declared that no evidence supported any allegation against Okunbor, while describing PINL as a well-organised company with a strong operational structure and positive relations with its host communities.

The lawmakers also acknowledged the company's contribution to improving crude oil production, noting that crude receipts through the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) rose from three per cent in May 2022 to 98 per cent in September 2026 following PINL's engagement.

Other achievements highlighted included the remediation of 2,049 illegal pipeline connections, destruction of 1,010 illegal refinery clusters and restoration of operations at OML 11 after an 18-month shutdown.

The report further recognised PINL's engagement across 215 host communities, employment of over 35,600 surveillance guards, provision of more than 5,000 scholarships and skills training for over 4,000 women and girls.

Consequently, the subcommittee recommended that the Federal Government extend PINL's pipeline surveillance contract in recognition of its contribution to securing critical national oil infrastructure.

It also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustaining reforms in the oil and gas sector, alongside the National Security Adviser, NNPC Limited and pipeline security providers, including PINL and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

The lawmakers further recommended a vote of confidence in the President, the National Security Adviser, NNPC Limited and the named surveillance contractors for their contributions to national security and improved pipeline protection.

Niger Delta Coalition Faults Asari’s Claims, Says Allegations Against Olu Of Warri Are Baseless

The Niger Delta Coalition has rejected the latest allegations by former Niger Delta militant leader Mujahid Dokubo-Asari against Ogiame Atuwatse III, Olu Of Warri, describing the claims as baseless, unjustified and unsupported by credible facts or evidence, ABUJAPRESS reports.

In a statement issued in response to Asari’s latest intervention, the Coalition said the allegations were particularly troubling given the delicate peace-building efforts involving the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities in Warri and the wider Niger Delta.

The Coalition said it was important for public figures commenting on sensitive regional issues to distinguish between verifiable facts and assertions capable of inflaming old grievances.

According to the group, the available record does not support attempts to portray Olu of Warri as a source of tension in the region, noting that he publicly called for calm among the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities in June and warned against allowing disagreements to degenerate into violence.

The Coalition further questioned the consistency of Asari’s latest position, recalling his previous disagreements with Olu Of Warri, particularly over the pipeline-security contract.

More recently, however, he has defended Tompolo against some criticisms while directing allegations at the Olu of Warri and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL).

The Coalition said the apparent contradictions in Asari’s public positions make it necessary for his latest claims to be subjected to serious scrutiny rather than accepted without evidence.

“Public allegations, particularly on issues involving traditional institutions, security contracts and ethnic relations, must be backed by facts, documents and verifiable evidence,” the Coalition said.

It cautioned that unsubstantiated claims could have consequences beyond the individuals being targeted, particularly in a region where ethnic sensitivities have historically been exploited by political and other interests.

The group also questioned the timing of the latest statements, saying they came at a period when the political atmosphere was already becoming increasingly tense.

“Who benefits from reopening old wounds at this particular time? That is the question responsible stakeholders should be asking,” the Coalition said.

The Coalition stressed that any allegation concerning the Olu of Warri, PINL, Tompolo or any other individual or organisation should be investigated through appropriate institutional and legal channels.

It, however, warned against using allegations as a means of provoking ethnic suspicion or undermining the fragile peace among the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities.

The Coalition urged Asari and other regional voices to exercise restraint and responsibility, insisting that the Niger Delta needs constructive engagement based on facts rather than rhetoric.

It said the region had made significant progress in building dialogue and peaceful coexistence and should not be dragged back into an era of suspicion, confrontation and ethnic mobilisation on the basis of claims that have not been substantiated.

The Coalition therefore challenged Asari to provide documentary evidence for any allegation he has made, rather than rely on assertions that, in its view, are unsupported by the facts currently available.

It maintained that accountability is welcome, but that accountability must be anchored on evidence, transparency and due process—not allegations capable of unnecessarily destabilising the region.

The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Dr Asu Kumemofa, Director of Finance and Accounts, NDDC who doubles of keynote speaker
and other prominent personalities are expected to grace the 16th Peace Achievers International Awards 2026.

The annual event, now in its 16th edition, is set to bring together humanitarian, political leaders, business executives, entrepreneurs, professionals, philanthropists, entertainers, media practitioners, civil society actors and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals and organisations making meaningful contributions to society.

The convener, Amb. Dr. Kingsley Amafibe in a statement said the 2026 edition which will take place on the 7th of November at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja, would focus on recognising achievements in peacebuilding, leadership, humanitarian service, social development, entrepreneurship, public service, education, healthcare, entertainment, media and community development.

According to Dr. Amafibe, the awards are not solely about professional accomplishments but also about the impact individuals and institutions have made in their communities and society at large.

He said the event would provide an opportunity to honour people whose work reflects values such as peace, integrity, innovation, compassion, service and excellence, while also encouraging others to contribute positively to society.

He noted that peace goes beyond the absence of conflict, stressing that it also involves inclusion, dialogue, mutual respect, opportunity and the ability of people and communities to work together towards common goals.

According to Dr. Amafibe, the 16th edition would therefore serve both as a celebration of achievement and a platform for promoting conversations around peace, unity and responsible leadership.

The event is also expected to highlight the contributions of individuals from different generations and sectors, with the organisers describing the platform as an avenue to inspire young people to pursue excellence, overcome challenges and use their talents and influence for the good of society.

He said reaching the 16th edition was a reflection of the enduring relevance of recognising individuals and organisations contributing to peace, development and social progress.

They added that this year's edition would build on the legacy of previous editions, with renewed emphasis on leadership, impact, service and excellence.

The 16th Peace Achievers International Awards 2026 is expected to provide a gathering point for influential stakeholders while celebrating those whose efforts are contributing to a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous society.

Trademark Dispute: Court Orders Immediate Halt to Preparations for Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit

Kenule Hails Court Order, Says Move Protects Years of Investment in Brand

The Founder Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit (NDEIS) has welcomed an interim restraining order issued by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, directing parties to maintain the status quo and effectively halting preparations by the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce to host an event under the disputed name, “Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit.”

The order followed a suit instituted by the founder of NDEIS, Kenule Nwiya Jnr, over an alleged trademark infringement involving the use of the name of the summit.

Nwiya had approached the court, alleging that the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce was seeking to use a name which, according to him, is legally protected by trademark registration. He argued that NDEIS had, over the years, built the platform into a recognised vehicle for economic dialogue, investment promotion and regional development in the Niger Delta.

According to him, the platform had been developed through years of investment, advocacy and sustained engagement, and that allowing another organisation to organise an event under the same name could create confusion and undermine the goodwill associated with the brand.

In its application before the court, Kenule argued that allowing the proposed event to proceed under the disputed name could create what its lawyers described as a “fait accompli”, and therefore urged the court to intervene pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Obiora Atuegwu Egwuatu, subsequently directed the parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the trademark dispute.

The order also comes against the backdrop of an existing suit and injunction relating to the same matter, which originated from a court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Justice Egwuatu, in addressing the matter, ordered the parties to respect the authority of the court and pursue any grievances through the appropriate legal channels.

Reacting to the development, NDEIS founder, Kenule Nwiya Jnr, described the order as an important step towards protecting the integrity of a platform which he said had been built over several years through hard work, diligence and sustained commitment to the economic development of the Niger Delta.

Nwiya expressed appreciation to the judiciary, describing it as a vital institution for protecting the rights of citizens and ensuring that disputes are resolved through due process.

He also expressed concern that what he described as attempts to appropriate the identity and goodwill associated with NDEIS could undermine confidence in the region, particularly among investors seeking a stable and transparent environment in which to do business.

Kenule said he remained confident that the judicial process would ultimately establish the facts and resolve the dispute fairly.

“I also want to use this opportunity to appeal to organisations that may have planned to invest their resources in such a project to exercise caution and allow the legal process to run its course. No solid structure can stand on a foundation built on deceit, lies or desperation.

“The Niger Delta Governors, Access Bank and the Niger Delta Development Commission should also be mindful of the subsisting court processes and ensure that their actions remain consistent with the authority of the courts.

“We need investment in the region. We need to create jobs and provide our young people with meaningful opportunities for livelihood. This can only be achieved through a transparent, credible and due process that commands the confidence of all stakeholders,” he said.

NDEIS said it remained committed to promoting economic development, investment opportunities and constructive dialogue across the Niger Delta, stressing that its immediate priority was to protect the integrity of the platform while allowing the courts to determine the substantive issues before them.

Signed:

Kenule Nwiya Jnr.
Founder of NDEIS

Popular Comedian Ogbuefi Brings 'Funnymen From The East' to Abuja After Successful Lagos, Port Harcourt Editions

One of Nigeria's foremost stand-up comedians, Ogbuefi, popularly celebrated for his hilarious "Onitsha Main Market Man" persona, is set to light up the nation's capital with an unforgettable comedy experience as he brings the much-anticipated 'Funnymen From The East' to Abuja.

Following the resounding success of the show's previous editions in Lagos and Port Harcourt, Ogbuefi has promised an even bigger and more entertaining Abuja edition, packed with rib-cracking performances from some of Nigeria's finest comedians.

Scheduled for Saturday, August 2, 2026, at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton Abuja, the event will showcase an impressive lineup of top comedy acts, delivering an evening of laughter, entertainment, and celebration of Eastern Nigeria's rich humour and culture.

Excitement is already building across the Federal Capital Territory, with promotional billboards strategically displayed across the city, generating widespread anticipation among comedy enthusiasts and entertainment lovers.

The event is expected to attract an array of distinguished guests, including prominent personalities from Nigeria's South-East, senior government officials, business leaders, captains of industry, traditional rulers, community and youth leaders, as well as friends and supporters of the region.

Ogbuefi has a longstanding reputation for delivering premium entertainment, and the upcoming 'Funnymen From The East' Abuja 2026 is expected to be one of the biggest comedy events in the capital.

He has assured guests of an evening filled with unforgettable laughter and world-class performances.

A renowned financial expert and the Managing Director of Apices Finance Company Limited, Daniel O. Oniko, has said leadership is defined by vision, influence and the ability to create lasting impact, and not just office title.

He stated this at a CEOs Leadership Roundtable Conference in Lagos, which had in attendance former President Olusegun Obasanjo and other business leaders.

The event at Delborough Hotel, Lagos had as the theme “Shaping the future of Leadership, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth” and brought together policymakers, industry stakeholders and executives for discussions centred on leadership, innovation and sustainable economic growth.

In remarks Oniko described the gathering as an opportunity to reflect on the role of leadership in shaping institutions and driving development. “Leadership is about vision, influence, and creating lasting impact,” he said.

The organisers said the roundtable theme underscores the growing debate around how private sector leadership can contribute to broader national development.

Apices Finance Company Limited also used the occasion to restate its corporate mission, saying it remains committed to fostering excellence, strategic partnerships and transformative leadership that can support economic progress.

“At Apices Finance Company Limited, we remain committed to fostering excellence, strategic partnerships, and transformative leadership that drives economic development,” the company said.

Oniko was pictured at the event alongside Obasanjo, one of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures, in what appeared to be a high-level networking and thought-leadership forum attended by decision-makers from different sectors of the economy.

His remarks place emphasis on a leadership model that goes beyond titles and office to measurable influence, institutional strength and long-term value creation.

His speech also reflects a familiar message in Nigeria’s business and policy space, where executives increasingly link corporate success with national economic stability and inclusive growth.

Prominent lawmakers, including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, are among distinguished legislators shortlisted for honours at the 2026 National Legislative Awards scheduled for July 9 in Abuja.

Organisers of the awards, HallowMace Africa and its partners, unveiled the final list of nominees across various categories ahead of the event, which has as its theme: "Celebrating Distinguished Leadership, Parliamentary Excellence, and Public Service."

According to a statement signed by the Head of Public Communications Desk of HallowMace Africa, Ambassador Oguh Hyginus John, the selection process combined public online voting and consultations with critical parliamentary stakeholders, including the National Assembly Press Corps, the Nigerian Conference of Speakers, the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) and the National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum (NASLAF).

The statement noted that the finalists emerged after what it described as a rigorous and transparent process aimed at recognising outstanding contributions to legislative development and democratic governance across the country.

Under the category of Most Outstanding Lawmakers in the National Assembly, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Hon. Chike Okafor emerged as winners for the South-East in the Senate and House of Representatives respectively.

For the South-South, Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Hon. Inombek Awaji-Abiante were selected, while Senator Solomon Olamilekan and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele tied for the South-West Senate category. Hon. Bamidele Salam emerged as the House of Representatives awardee for the zone.

In the North-Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Hon. Jonathan Gaza secured the Senate and House of Representatives honours respectively. Senator Mohammed Monguno and Hon. Ahmadu Usman Jaha were selected for the North-East, while Senator Sunday Katung and Hon. Sada Soli emerged from the North-West.

The organisers also announced winners in the category of Most Outstanding Speakers of State Houses of Assembly, selected through consultations with the Nigerian Conference of Speakers.

They include Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji; Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman; and Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Haruna Aliyu.

A special recognition and long service achievement award will be conferred on the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan.

In other categories, Dr. Cornelius Ikalumhe and Mr. Paul Adara Adiwu were named as the most outstanding parliamentary staff in the Senate and House of Representatives respectively, while Hajia Hauwa M. Lamin and Mr. Agwunobi Peter Anochie emerged as the most outstanding legislative aides.

Among parliamentary correspondents, Oyediya Agwu Nancy Urum of AIT was recognised in the Senate category, while Joke Adisa of TVC emerged in the House of Representatives category. Comrade Babalola Lukman Laleye of Emporium was named the outstanding parliamentary reporter in the new media category.

The awards ceremony will hold at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, beginning at 4 p.m.

Former President of the Senate in the Third Republic, Senator Ameh Ebute, will serve as chairman of the occasion, while Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki are expected as special guests of honour.

HallowMace Africa, which is hosting the event in partnership with ERGAF Africa, the International Goodwill Ambassador Club and the IsabellaAyuk Foundation, said the awardees had demonstrated exceptional commitment to legislative due process, effective constituency representation and the promotion of democratic values.

"These finalists have demonstrated uncommon dedication to legislative due process, constituency representation, and the advancement of democratic values. We thank the Nigerian public and our media and parliamentary partners for ensuring a credible selection process. July 9, 2026, will be a night of pure legislative honour," the organisers stated.

POWER MOVE CONFERENCE 2026 INSPIRES PARTICIPANTS TO MOVE FROM HIDDEN TO UNSTOPPABLE

The maiden edition of the Power Move Conference, themed “From Hidden to Unstoppable: Take Your Seat at the Table,” was successfully held on June 12, 2026, at Odilins Event Center, Jos, Plateau State.

Convened by Sylvia Matlong Mbai in partnership with Jos Business Women Connect (JBWC), the conference brought together entrepreneurs, professionals, emerging leaders, and individuals seeking growth in business, leadership, and personal development.

The event attracted an overwhelming turnout, with the venue filled to capacity and many participants standing outside due to the large number of attendees.

Speaking on the vision behind the conference, Convener Sylvia Matlong Mbai stated that the Power Move Conference was born from a desire to help individuals break free from fear, self-doubt, excuses, and limiting beliefs that often prevent them from pursuing opportunities and taking their rightful place in leadership, business, and society.

“The truth is that many people already have the talent, potential, and capacity to succeed. What often holds them back is fear, past experiences, self-doubt, and concern about what others may think. Power Move was created to challenge people to move beyond those limitations and become unstoppable,” she said.

The conference featured insightful sessions delivered by respected speakers across various fields.

One of the keynote sessions focused on “Breaking the Cycle of Self-Doubt and Limitation: Rewiring Your Mind for Growth and Expansion,” encouraging participants to develop a growth mindset and embrace new possibilities.

Representing the Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Maureen Dakim, Director of Women Affairs, delivered a presentation on “Taking Your Seat at the Table: Building the Confidence, Capacity, and Presence to Lead and Influence,” emphasizing the importance of leadership development and purposeful influence.

Leadership expert Mrs. Hansatu Adegbite spoke on “Strategic Positioning for Impact: How Leaders Align Their Identity, Voice, and Work to Command Opportunities,” while business leader and CEO of Dee Utensils, Mrs. Lola Andy, delivered a highly impactful session titled “From Invisibility to Influence: Practical Strategies for Building Visibility, Positioning Yourself, and Accessing Bigger Opportunities.”

A major highlight of the conference was the “Unscripted Stories” segment, where three individuals shared authentic personal experiences that deeply resonated with participants.

Joy Joseph shared her journey of navigating the responsibilities of being a firstborn, remaining committed to her values, and building a business as a single woman. Dongvel Aliyu spoke on the importance of self-presentation, confidence, and personal branding, while Reyit Diket Plang highlighted the transformative power of social media and how it connected her to opportunities and influential networks.

Another defining moment was the Pitch Your Business Grant session sponsored by Dee Utensils. Two entrepreneurs received business grants of ₦500,000 each, while five additional entrepreneurs received grants of ₦100,000 each to support the growth of their businesses.

Participants also benefited from networking opportunities, product exhibitions, and an Action Statement Reflection Session, where attendees were challenged to identify practical steps they would take following the conference and commit to immediate action.

Since the event, testimonies have continued to emerge from participants who report taking bold steps in their businesses, careers, and personal lives as a result of the lessons and inspiration received at the conference.

The success of the Power Move Conference has positioned it as a transformational platform dedicated to empowering individuals to move from potential to action, from obscurity to visibility, and from fear to influence.

As the conference concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to take their seat at the table and create meaningful impact within their spheres of influence.

Two notable MCs and comedians, Funny Bruno and Mr. Odey Jacob popularly known as Odey D Uncommon Comedian are now personalities of public debate following their appearances on' Ybits Oketa's podcast where they both accused each other of stealing and delivering other people's jokes.

Both individuals are popular in Abuja entertainment space and have built large fan bases in their years of thrilling guests at social functions.

They are seen as models and mentors to younger generation of comedians but their recent public fight has caught fans analyse their strength and professional achievements.

In his appearance on the Fire And Ice TalkShow, Mr Odey D Uncommon Comedian faulted the claim by FunnyBruno in which he is accused of stealing joke lines belonging FunnyBruno.

Responding to the allegation, he spoke in pigin English he said, "Bruno get joke? Go and ask him, him get joke? Him get joke na em e never dey all over Nigeria", he said.

He continued, "I don't steal jokes. The most important thing is, in this life, do your research, carry your materials the way you want to carry it and deliver it. My pattern is different from whoever you're calling", he stated.

While claiming that everyone steals jokes, Mr. Odey said his jokes have been at different occasions delivered at events while he goes ahead to deliver a different thing. He denied allegations of being a problematic person, after falling out with Amb. Wahala and now Bruno.

FunnyBruno has quickly fired back, saying he has never seen Mr Odey demonstrate creativity, saying his jokes are predictable.

"in fact most of the jokes Odey cracks are just mere Twitter cut and join jokes. Memes, just like that. Odey is not a creative comedian since nearly tens years he knew Odey. He equally accused Odey of stealing Gordons joke.

According to him, Mr. Odey cannot perform in big stages where creativity matters, saying Odey has not gone for a talent hunt Spontaneity all his entertainment career.

"Me and Odey are not on the same level, when it comes to stand up comedy or creativity", he said.

Rivalry among entertainers is very common in Nigeria, even in the music space where Faze and 2Face for a long time used music to shade each other.

Foremost Nigerian businessman and Chairman of Globacom, Chief Michael Adeniyi Adenuga, Nigerian music superstar Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, and the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, are among eminent personalities set to be honoured at the 2026 edition of the 100 Most Notable Africans Leadership and Business Summit in Marrakech, Morocco.

The summit will take place from June 26 to 28, 2026, at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès Marrakech, Mövenpick Hotel, and is expected to draw influential leaders, captains of industry, policymakers and innovators from across Africa and beyond.

Organised by Davdan Peace and Advocacy Foundation and the 100 Most Notable Peace Icons Africa, the summit seeks to celebrate excellence, encourage cross-border collaboration and promote sustainable development on the continent.

According to the organisers, Chief Adenuga is being recognised for his outstanding contributions to telecommunications and enterprise development, while Wizkid is to be honoured for his immense impact on African music and global entertainment. Senator Barau Jibrin will be recognised for his contributions to public service and legislative leadership in Nigeria.

Other personalities expected to receive awards include Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, former African Union Commission Chairperson Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, actress Funke Akindele, producer Don Jazzy, and several distinguished leaders and entrepreneurs from across the continent.

Project Director, Africa, Amb. Dr Kingsley Amafibe, said the 2026 summit is poised to be a landmark event, bringing together Africa's finest minds and most accomplished personalities to celebrate achievements and forge partnerships capable of transforming the continent.

He added that the growing international interest in the summit underscores its status as one of Africa's leading platforms for leadership, business and continental development.