₦airaland Forum

A Night of Drums, Dance, Brotherhood and the Renewed Spirit of Ijaw Unity

Deep in the historic creeks of Gbaramatu, where the waters carry centuries of Ijaw history and the land holds the footprints of generations of warriors, an extraordinary evening of culture, friendship and brotherhood unfolded.

It was a night when tradition took centre stage, drums spoke the language of the ancestors, and two prominent sons of Ijaw land, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and Da Amakiri Tubo , Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, the Amanyanabo of Chiefdom and Principalities of The Source, Elem Kalabari
evening in the company of their kinsmen.

The evening began quietly with dinner, but Gbaramatu had something special waiting for its distinguished visitors.

Chairs were arranged in a circle, creating an intimate setting that reflected the communal spirit of the Ijaw people. One after another, high chiefs, the Gbaramatu monarch, respected elders, prominent personalities and townspeople arrived. The drummers came prepared, the dancers were ready, and an air of expectation settled over the gathering.

Nothing was left to chance. The people of Gbaramatu had planned a fitting welcome, and they intended to make it memorable.

Interestingly, the principal business that brought the royal delegation to Gbaramatu had already been successfully concluded.

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari and his entourage had come to formally invite the Agadagba of Gbaramatu to Se Diye, scheduled for December 19, 2026. The invitation was warmly received, and the Agadagba promised to attend. Mission accomplished.

With the serious business of the visit in the bag, the evening belonged to culture, friendship and celebration.

And what a celebration it became!

The Gbaramatu cultural dancers opened the performances with a spirited display of traditional songs, energetic movements and beautifully coordinated dance routines. They had large numbers. Very intimidating.

For approximately 45 minutes, they entertained an appreciative home crowd, drawing applause and admiration as they demonstrated the richness of Gbaramatu's cultural heritage.

Their performance was impressive, but the evening was about to take another exciting turn.

Enter the legendary Ogele Boys of Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari!

Seasoned performers who have accompanied the Amanyanabo across Nigeria, the Ogele troupe brought their unmistakable rhythm, infectious energy and remarkable coordination to the gathering.

For more than 30 minutes, they commanded everyone's attention.

Their songs rose above the night air, their drums maintained a compelling rhythm, and their movements flowed with the confidence of men who have spent years perfecting their craft.

The audience was spellbound.

If the Gbaramatu dancers had ignited the evening, the Ogele Boys ensured that the cultural fire burned even brighter.

Together, both groups delivered a magnificent celebration of Ijaw identity.

Ijaw traditional dancing is not for the faint-hearted. It is a vigorous expression of rhythm and movement, where the head, shoulders, waist, hands and feet appear to answer the drums in perfect agreement.

Even those seated could hardly resist the temptation to clap, sing along or sway to the music.

And right there, in the middle of this cultural spectacle, sat two men enjoying the simple pleasures of an extraordinary evening.

Tompolo, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, was dressed in his familiar casual style, wearing his trademark face cap, black jeans, a T-shirt and white Crocs.

There was no elaborate display of wealth or power. He appeared completely at ease in the company of his brothers.

Like his royal guest, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari, he drank only water.

The men exchanged jokes, shared laughter and applauded the performers with genuine delight.

For those precious hours, the atmosphere was relaxed and informal. The evening offered an opportunity to enjoy the company of old friends, celebrate a shared heritage and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood.

Far away from the noise and pressures of public life, deep within the sacred waterways of Gbaramatu, something beautiful was taking place.

It was as though the ancestral spirits of the land were bearing witness to a renewed sense of unity and common purpose among the sons of Ijaw land.

The gathering carried a significance beyond the colourful performances.

Here were men whose paths had been shaped by the struggles, sacrifices and aspirations of the Niger Delta, sitting together in peace, sharing stories and enjoying the cultural treasures of their people.

It was a celebration of friendship, mutual respect and the enduring ties that bind the Ijaw nation.

A ROYAL ENTOURAGE OF DISTINGUISHED IJAW PERSONALITIES

Accompanying Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari on this memorable visit were four of his children: Princess Nene Amirah Dokubo-Asari, Chief Dienyefa Dokubo-Asari, Chief Amieyeofori Dokubo-Asari and Hassan Dokubo-Asari.

The royal entourage also included several prominent personalities.

Among them was Prince Tonye T.J.T. Princewill, Paramount Head of the Queen Elebabene Da Ogo Group of Houses and Satellite Communities of the Kalabari Kingdom.

Also present were Alabo Otonye Williams, Amadabo of Mbiama Kingdom, Alabo Ala Hart, Vice President of the Ijaw Youth Council, Alabo Lawrence Danagogo, Alabo Daerefa Braide and Alabo Jude Tabai.
How can I forget the billionaire business man, Chief Tunde Smooth.

Others included Dennis Braide, Chief of Protocol, Bright Isokariari, Special Assistant on Media, Godswill Iyalla, and, of course, Al Humphrey Onyanabo, the storyteller, who was there to witness and preserve the memories of this remarkable gathering.

Each personality brought a distinct presence to an evening that celebrated the dignity, heritage and shared identity of the Ijaw people.

WHEN THE DRUMS FINALLY RESTED

Long before midnight, the festivities came to a close.

The royal entourage had an early departure scheduled for 6 a.m. the following morning. But we had to stay back a few hours to witness the Egbesu worship service which is story for another day.

Ahead lay a long boat journey through the winding waterways to Warri, followed by the onward trip to Obuama.

But while the visitors would eventually leave Gbaramatu behind, the memories of that evening would travel with them.

The music, the dancing, the laughter, the warmth of their hosts and the unmistakable spirit of brotherhood had created something worth remembering.

For Tompolo and Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari, the gathering offered another opportunity to renew the bonds of friendship and shared heritage.

For the people of Gbaramatu, it was an occasion to showcase their hospitality, their traditions and their pride in being Ijaw.

And for everyone privileged to witness it, the evening was a reminder that the strength of a people lies not only in their history of struggle but also in their capacity to come together, celebrate one another and find common ground.

The drums may have fallen silent, the dancers may have retired, and the royal boats may have departed, but the echoes of that beautiful evening will linger.

Gbaramatu gave us more than a cultural fiesta. It gave us memories of brotherhood, friendship and a shared heritage that no distance can erase.

And long after the last boat has disappeared into the creeks, Gbaramatu will remain in our hearts.

Al Humphrey Onyanabo
The Storyteller,
08109975621

By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo

Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of the Chiefdom and Principalities of the Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, Kingdom of Kalabari, has congratulated His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of his ascension to the throne of the Sultanate of Sokoto.

In a congratulatory message issued on October 27, 2026, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari described the milestone as a remarkable testament to two decades of dedicated royal service, spiritual leadership, cultural preservation, and commitment to peace, unity, and harmonious coexistence in Nigeria.

The traditional ruler, who conveyed his felicitations on behalf of his family, the people of Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, and the entire Kalabari Kingdom, expressed profound joy and admiration for the Sultan's contributions to the preservation of traditional institutions and the promotion of religious harmony and national cohesion.

He noted that the Sultan's twenty years on the throne represented more than the passage of time, describing the milestone as a reflection of responsibility, sacrifice, wisdom, patience, and steadfast dedication to the Muslim Ummah and the Nigerian nation.

According to him, the Sultan's leadership as the spiritual and traditional head of the Sultanate of Sokoto, alongside his role as President-General of the NSCIA, underscores the enduring relevance of traditional and religious institutions in providing moral guidance, safeguarding cultural heritage, and fostering mutual understanding among people of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds.

“A throne is not merely a symbol of authority or historical inheritance; it is a sacred trust, demanding justice, humility, compassion, courage and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people,” Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari stated.

He added that the Sultan's twenty-year reign constituted a significant milestone in the discharge of this sacred responsibility.

CALLS FOR PEACE, DIALOGUE AND NATIONAL COHESION

Reflecting on Nigeria's prevailing challenges, including insecurity, social divisions, economic hardship, and the need for greater mutual understanding, Da Amakiri Tubo stressed that the wisdom and counsel of respected traditional rulers and religious leaders remained indispensable to the country's peace and stability.

He urged the Sultan to sustain his exemplary commitment to peacebuilding, dialogue, religious tolerance, and national unity, noting that Nigeria needed leaders whose voices unite rather than divide, encourage dialogue rather than hostility, and inspire hope rather than despair.

He further called on the Sultan to continue using his revered position to guide younger generations, strengthen brotherhood among Muslims, and promote peaceful relations between adherents of different faiths and communities across the country.

AFFIRMS SOLIDARITY AMONG TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari reaffirmed his solidarity and fraternal goodwill towards the Sultan, emphasizing that traditional institutions, despite their different cultural and geographical origins, share a common responsibility to uphold the dignity of their people, preserve their heritage, promote peace, and build enduring legacies for future generations.

He observed that the twentieth anniversary should not merely serve as a celebration of the years already spent on the throne, but also mark the beginning of an even more fruitful chapter of service, greater accomplishments, and enduring blessings for the Sultanate of Sokoto, the Muslim Ummah, and Nigeria.

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to grant the Sultan sound health, renewed strength, wisdom, patience, and divine guidance in the discharge of his responsibilities.

He also prayed for Allah's continued protection over the Sultan and his family, the preservation of the rich heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate, stronger bonds of unity among traditional rulers, and lasting peace, justice, security, and prosperity for Nigeria.

PRAYERS FOR CONTINUED SUCCESSFUL REIGN

Concluding his message, Da Amakiri Tubo congratulated the Sultan on twenty remarkable years on the throne and expressed the hope that his reign would continue to inspire generations to come through honourable service, principled leadership, and enduring contributions to humanity.

He prayed that Almighty Allah would accept the Sultan's efforts as acts of worship, forgive his shortcomings, reward his sacrifices, and grant him many more years of fruitful service to the Sultanate of Sokoto, the Muslim Ummah, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Congratulations, Your Eminence, on twenty remarkable years on the throne. May Allah grant you many more years of honourable service, sound leadership and enduring impact, and may the legacy of your reign continue to inspire generations yet unborn.”

The royal message concluded with prayers for the continued preservation of the Sultanate of Sokoto and the strengthening of peaceful relations among Nigeria's traditional institutions, religious communities, and diverse peoples.

Niger State governor congratulates Elem Kalabari monarch, promises to honour invitation as preparations intensify for December 19 coronation; journey to the throne reflects a remarkable passage through activism, sacrifice and traditional service

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

As preparations intensify for SE DIYE, the landmark final coronation rites of the Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri the monarch is extending his hand of fellowship across Nigeria, bringing old friendships, enduring relationships and the prospect of national unity into the heart of the forthcoming royal celebration.

Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Dabaye Amakiri 1, Amakiri Ekpeke, Sebromabo. The Amanyanabo of The Chiefdom and Principalities of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, has met with the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, to extend a personal invitation to attend SE DIYE, scheduled for Saturday, December 19, 2026, at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State.

The meeting brought together two old friends whose relationship is founded on mutual respect and personal regard. During the engagement, Governor Bago congratulated the monarch on his forthcoming final coronation rites and promised to honour the invitation by joining the people of Elem Kalabari for the historic occasion.

The governor’s response adds to the growing anticipation surrounding SE DIYE, which is being positioned as a gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, public officials, cultural figures and distinguished Nigerians from across the country.

For Da Amakiri Tubo, the outreach is about more than assembling dignitaries for a royal ceremony. It reflects his desire to make SE DIYE an inclusive celebration of friendship, cultural identity, shared history and the relationships that connect Nigerians across ethnic, religious and geographical boundaries.

A KING WHOSE JOURNEY REFLECTS THE MANY LAYERS OF NIGERIAN PUBLIC LIFE

The story of Da Amakiri Tubo is inseparable from the turbulent political and social history of the Niger Delta.

He is a prominent Niger Delta figure whose public life has traversed religion, activism, political agitation, imprisonment and, ultimately, traditional leadership. His name has remained closely associated with the region’s struggles over resource control, political representation, identity and the relationship between the Niger Delta and the Nigerian state.

His journey to the throne represents a significant transition in a life shaped by public controversy, political conviction and service to his people. The emergence of a figure long associated with activism into one of the highest traditional positions within the Kalabari cultural institution places his reign at the intersection of contemporary political history and inherited tradition.

For his supporters, this transition represents a return to the ancestral foundations of the people he has long identified with. It also presents an opportunity to redirect the influence accumulated over decades of public engagement towards cultural preservation, traditional governance and the responsibilities of leadership.

The significance of his forthcoming final coronation rites lies in this convergence of personal history and collective heritage. SE DIYE will mark not merely another stage in a traditional process, but a defining moment in the public and cultural journey of a man whose life has taken him through several important chapters of Nigeria’s national story.

THE ROAD TO THE THRONE: SERVICE, SACRIFICE AND TRADITION

Da Amakiri Tubo’s emergence as Amanyanabo followed a sequence of traditional appointments, selections and official recognition.

On November 1, 2023, he was made Head of the Edi Abali Group of Houses. Eight days later, on November 9, 2023, he performed SE DIYE as Alabo Edi Abali, marking an important milestone in his progression within the Kalabari traditional institution.

Edi Abali is one of the prominent war canoe houses in Kalabari history. Its heritage is associated with Alabo Inabioboari Braide, remembered in Kalabari historical accounts as the first Prime Minister of the Kalabari state. The house occupies an important place in the traditional political and cultural history of the kingdom.

On May 23, 2024, the King Abbi Royal House chose Da Amakiri Tubo as Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari. On the same date, the Kalabari Se Kobiri also chose him as Amakiri Ekpeke, a designation understood as the shield and defender of the Kalabari people.

These developments marked a decisive stage in his journey towards the traditional leadership of The Source.

The Rivers State Government subsequently recognised his position on October 8, 2024. On December 31, 2024, Governor Siminalayi Fubara presented him with the Staff of Office, providing formal state recognition of his traditional authority.

His adoption of the title Dabaye Amakiri I further connected his reign to the historical traditions and cultural identity of the Kalabari people.

The sequence of events illustrates the different stages through which his traditional position developed, from leadership of a prominent house to selection by the relevant traditional institutions and subsequent government recognition.

His forthcoming SE DIYE ceremony is therefore being presented as the culmination of a journey through traditional responsibilities and royal rites, reaffirming his place within the ancestral institution of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri.


A GROWING LIST OF DISTINGUISHED GUESTS

The list of dignitaries expected or invited to attend SE DIYE continues to attract national attention.

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, are among the distinguished personalities whose attendance is being anticipated. Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, F.C.T. Minister, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State and his wife are also among the prominent figures associated with the forthcoming celebration.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, who formally presented Da Amakiri Tubo with his Staff of Office, is the chief host for the occasion.

The anticipated gathering is expected to bring together traditional rulers, serving and former public officeholders, political leaders, cultural custodians and other distinguished guests whose presence would reflect the wider significance being attached to the ceremony.

As invitations continue to reach prominent Nigerians, the event is taking shape as an opportunity to bring together people from different walks of life in celebration of Elem Kalabari’s traditional heritage.


SE DIYE holds on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State.

From the Source of the Kalabari state to the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, Elem Kalabari monarch extends hand of friendship as SE DIYE coronation approaches; follows visits to Sultan of Sokoto and Etsu Nupe

In a growing campaign of royal diplomacy that is drawing Nigeria’s historic traditional institutions closer, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, the Amanyanabo of the Chiefdom and Principalities
of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri of the Kingdom of Kalabari
has visited the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, seeking to establish stronger cultural, historical and economic ties between Elem Kalabari and Ile-Ife.

The visit, during which
Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari
extended a personal invitation to the Ooni to attend SE DIYE, his final coronation rites scheduled for December 19, 2026, in Buguma, Rivers State, carries a significance beyond the courtesies of a royal audience.

It brings together two traditional institutions whose identities are closely associated with origins, ancestral memory and the continuity of indigenous civilisation.

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari said
"it is based on the cordial relationship that we have built that I am here today to invite His Imperial Majesty and his council to my Se Diye,The final rites of coronation on December 19,2026 in Buguma"

In his address the Ooni said welcome Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari and his encourage to his palace of Oduduwa.

He described Da Amakiri as fearlesss and said the fear of Asari Dokubo is the beginning of wisdom.

He also thanked Da Amakiri Tubo's for the love and his relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He commended him for the wisdom he has been handling his affairs since he became Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari. He thanked Da Amakiri Tubo for finally coming home to Ile Ife his home.

He later presented a bronze painting to Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari which he said sumbolizes that people are his strenght.


In a remarkable coincidence of historical symbolism, the Ooni occupies the throne of Ile-Ife, revered in Yoruba tradition as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, while Da Amakiri Tubo bears the title of Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri — a royal institution associated with the ancestral origins and historical identity of the Kalabari people.

The meeting therefore presents an opportunity to connect two historic centres of cultural identity through a contemporary agenda of friendship, mutual recognition and economic cooperation.

A HISTORIC FIGURE, A ROYAL THRONE AND A NEW CHAPTER

The emergence of Da Amakiri Tubo as Amanyanabo of The Source is a defining chapter in the continuing story of Elem Kalabari traditional leadership. His journey to the throne places him within a historical institution whose identity is inseparable from the origins, traditions and political evolution of the Kalabari people.

His reign comes at a time when traditional institutions are increasingly being called upon to do more than preserve inherited customs. They are expected to serve as bridges between communities, custodians of historical knowledge and partners in the pursuit of cultural preservation, social cohesion and economic development.

By reaching out to the Ooni of Ife, Da Amakiri Tubo is extending the significance of his forthcoming coronation beyond the boundaries of the Kalabari Kingdom. The initiative seeks to establish relationships that can endure beyond ceremonial encounters and translate into practical collaboration.

The proposed engagement between The Source, Elem Kalabari and Ile-Ife could open avenues for cultural festivals, historical documentation, academic exchanges, heritage tourism, creative industries and commercial partnerships connecting the Niger Delta with southwestern Nigeria.

For a monarch whose final coronation rites are approaching, the outreach also offers an opportunity to situate his reign within a wider national conversation about the relevance of traditional authority in contemporary Nigeria.

FROM THE SOURCE TO THE CRADLE OF YORUBA CIVILISATION

Ile-Ife occupies a central place in Yoruba history, religion and cultural consciousness. Its standing as the ancestral cradle of Yoruba civilisation gives the Ooni a distinctive position among Nigeria’s traditional rulers and makes the ancient city an important centre for the preservation of Yoruba heritage.

Elem Kalabari, likewise, possesses a rich history shaped by maritime commerce, diplomacy, traditional governance and the canoe-house system that influenced the development of Kalabari political and economic life.

The title of Amanyanabo of The Source carries particular significance within the Kalabari traditional institution, connecting Da Amakiri Tubo’s throne to the historical identity and ancestral heritage of Elem Kalabari.

The convergence of these two institutions offers a compelling basis for cultural diplomacy: Ile-Ife, revered as the source of Yoruba civilisation, and The Source, Elem Kalabari, with its own traditions of origin and royal heritage.

While their histories are distinct, both institutions demonstrate how ancestral narratives, cultural identity and traditional authority continue to shape the lives of their peoples.

A closer relationship could encourage both communities to document their histories, exchange cultural knowledge and introduce younger generations to the traditions that have sustained their identities across generations.

ROYAL DIPLOMACY GAINS MOMENTUM: SULTAN OF SOKOTO, ETSU NUPE VISITED

The visit to the Ooni of Ife follows a series of royal engagements by Da Amakiri Tubo earlier in the week, including visits to His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, and the Etsu Nupe.

The engagements point to a deliberate effort to build relationships between Elem Kalabari and traditional institutions across Nigeria’s major cultural regions as SE DIYE approaches.

At Sokoto, Da Amakiri Tubo personally invited the Sultan to attend the December 19 ceremony in Buguma. The meeting highlighted their longstanding personal relationship, including their shared experiences performing the Hajj pilgrimage, and the importance of friendship between traditional institutions in promoting national cohesion.

The outreach to the Etsu Nupe further extends this effort to strengthen connections with another historic traditional institution.

Taken together, the visits to the Sultan of Sokoto, the Etsu Nupe and Ile-Ife place the forthcoming coronation within a wider framework of inter-kingdom engagement. Rather than treating SE DIYE solely as a local royal celebration, Da Amakiri Tubo is using the occasion to create opportunities for dialogue and lasting relationships across Nigeria.

The initiative also underscores the potential of traditional rulers to promote cooperation across geographical, cultural and religious boundaries without diminishing the distinctive identities of their respective peoples.

SE DIYE: BUGUMA PREPARES FOR A LANDMARK ROYAL CEREMONY

The Ooni’s invitation is part of preparations for SE DIYE, the final coronation and ascension ceremony marking Da Amakiri Tubo’s reign as Amanyanabo of The Source, Torusarama Piri, Elem Kalabari.

Scheduled for Saturday, December 19, 2026, at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State, the ceremony is expected to bring together traditional rulers, political leaders, public officials, cultural figures and other distinguished guests.

For Elem Kalabari, SE DIYE represents an opportunity to reaffirm its royal heritage, celebrate its cultural identity and draw renewed attention to its historical contributions to the Niger Delta and Nigeria.

The participation of monarchs from other parts of the country would also give the ceremony a broader national dimension, demonstrating the value of relationships between traditional institutions in a diverse federation.

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari’s outreach to the Ooni of Ife, the Sultan of Sokoto and the Etsu Nupe signals an ambition to make the coronation an occasion not only for the celebration of a royal ascension but also for strengthening inter-kingdom relations.

BEYOND CEREMONY: BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS THAT LAST

The next challenge is to translate royal goodwill into sustained engagement.

For Elem Kalabari and Ile-Ife, potential areas of cooperation include cultural and educational exchanges, heritage tourism, historical research, creative enterprise and opportunities for business relationships between their communities.

The significance of the visit, therefore, lies not only in the invitation extended to the Ooni but in the possibilities that may emerge from a closer relationship between the two historic centres.

As the final coronation rites approach, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari is taking the story of The Source beyond the waterways of the Niger Delta, reaching towards Nigeria’s other historic institutions in pursuit of friendship, cultural recognition and economic cooperation.

From Ile-Ife, revered as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, to The Source, Elem Kalabari, the royal outreach carries a clear message: Nigeria’s ancient institutions can preserve their distinct histories while building new relationships that contribute to a shared national future.

SE DIYE holds on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State.

In the royal encourage of Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari were,
Prince Tonye T.J T. Princewill, Paramount Head of the Queen Elebabene Da Ogo group of houses and satellite communities of Kalabari Kingdom,
Hajia Ramat Dokubo-Asari,
Hajia Halima Dokubo-Asari, Mallam Mustapha Wakama,
Flora Ezeoko, Al Humphrey Onyanabo, The Storyteller,
Prince Melford Princewill, Engr Bashir Lawal and Alhaji Sanni kazeem Adebayo

Royal visit opens a new chapter of friendship between two historic Nigerian institutions as Da Amakiri Tubo extends personal invitation to Sultan for SE DIYE in Buguma

By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo


The historic bonds of friendship and national unity between Nigeria’s diverse traditional institutions received fresh impetus on Tuesday as Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Torusarama Piri, Elem Kalabari, on Tuesday , October 20th, paid a royal visit to His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, with a personal invitation to attend SE DIYE, the landmark final coronation ceremony scheduled for December 19, 2026, in Buguma, Rivers State.

The visit brought together two distinguished traditional institutions and personalities whose histories reflect different but equally important dimensions of Nigeria’s cultural heritage: Elem Kalabari, the historic heartland of the Kalabari people in the Niger Delta, and Sokoto, the seat of the Sultanate and the historic centre of the Sokoto Caliphate.

Beyond the formal courtesies associated with a royal audience, the meeting provided an opportunity to explore the importance of friendship, mutual respect and cooperation between traditional institutions as Nigeria continues to navigate the demands of national unity, cultural preservation and development.

At the centre of the engagement was Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari's invitation to the Sultan to attend his SE DIYE/ final coronation on December 19, 2026 when Buguma will host traditional rulers, government representatives, cultural leaders and distinguished guests for the final coronation and ascension ceremony marking his reign as Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri.

On the purpose of the visit, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri said,
" I and the Sultan have known ourselves for a long time. We have been to Hajj three or four times together. I came to inform you that your daughter AMIRAH will be doing her Nikhai on Dec 18th 2026 and on December 19th, 2026, I will undertake the final coronation rites as Amanyanabo. Where we come from, we pass through different stages before you are finally coronated. On December 19, 2026, I will be presented to my people."

In his remarks the Sultan said,
" We are honoured to receive our brothers and sisters all the way from Rivers state to come and see us and to tell us the good things that the Almighty Allah has done. I have known Mujahid for a long time, and like he said we have been to Hajj together many times. He is a man who likes to help people, both Muslims and non Muslims and also build mosques.
God is never wrong in whatever he does. For him to be elevated now it means the works he has been doing has had positive impact on the people. Leadership is given by Allah and I want to assure you of our continued support.
By the grace of Almighty Allah, I will try and make it to your coronation. We thank you all for taking time to come here."

TWO HISTORIC INSTITUTIONS, ONE NATIONAL DESTINY

The significance of the visit lies in the opportunity to build a stronger contemporary relationship between two traditional institutions that have shaped the histories and identities of their respective peoples.

Elem Kalabari emerged as an important maritime society whose history was shaped by riverine commerce, diplomacy, traditional governance and the canoe-house system. Its strategic location within the Niger Delta connected its people to wider commercial networks and contributed to the development of a distinctive political and cultural civilisation.

Sokoto, meanwhile, occupies a central place in the history of Northern Nigeria. The Sokoto Caliphate emerged from the movement led by Sheikh Usman dan Fodio, beginning in 1804, and developed into one of the most influential political and intellectual formations in nineteenth-century West Africa.

Although the two institutions emerged from different historical circumstances, both continue to embody traditions of leadership, identity and community authority that remain relevant to contemporary Nigeria.

The meeting between Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari
and the Sultan therefore represents an opportunity to strengthen relations across geographical, cultural and religious boundaries while respecting the distinct histories of both institutions.


For Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari, the forthcoming SE DIYE ceremony provides an opportunity to celebrate that inheritance while drawing attention to the responsibilities that accompany natural leadership.

His visit to the Sultan of Sokoto places that responsibility within a broader national context: the need for traditional institutions to build relationships that encourage understanding and strengthen the bonds connecting Nigeria’s peoples.

THE SOKOTO CALIPHATE AND THE CONTINUING ROLE OF THE SULTANATE

The Sultanate of Sokoto remains one of Nigeria’s most prominent traditional institutions.

Its historical roots lie in the Sokoto Caliphate, established following the movement led by Sheikh Usman dan Fodio in the early nineteenth century. The Caliphate developed an extensive system of religious scholarship, administration and emirate governance before British conquest ended its independent political authority in 1903.

The Sultanate nevertheless endured as an institution of religious and traditional significance.

His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, occupies a prominent position in Nigeria’s traditional and religious landscape. His office provides an important platform for engagement on matters of culture, peaceful coexistence and national cohesion.

The visit by Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari underscores the importance of direct engagement between traditional leaders whose influence extends beyond their immediate communities.

It also reinforces the principle that Nigeria’s cultural diversity should serve as a foundation for mutual recognition and cooperation.

SE DIYE: AN INVITATION TO BUGUMA

A major highlight of the visit was Da Amakiri Tubo’s personal invitation to the Sultan of Sokoto to attend SE DIYE on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State.

The occasion will mark the final coronation and ascension ceremony associated with Da Amakiri Tubo’s reign as Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri.

SE DIYE is being positioned as a landmark cultural gathering that will bring together traditional rulers, political leaders, public officials, members of the Kalabari diaspora and other distinguished guests to celebrate the history, identity and enduring traditions of the Kalabari people.

For Elem Kalabari, the ceremony represents an opportunity to reaffirm its cultural heritage and bring renewed attention to the historical significance of The Source.

The invitation to the Sultan adds a wider national dimension to the occasion. His attendance, alongside other monarchs, distinguished personalities would provide a powerful expression of friendship between two traditional institutions and an opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s cultural plurality.


Da Amakiri Tubo’s decision to personally deliver the invitation reflects the importance he attaches to building relationships through direct engagement and mutual respect.

The invitation is not simply about attendance at a royal ceremony. It is an opportunity to open a new chapter of interaction between Elem Kalabari and Sokoto, with possibilities for reciprocal visits, cultural exchanges, historical documentation and engagement between younger generations.

BUILDING BRIDGES BEYOND ROYAL COURTESIES

The meeting also highlights the potential contribution of traditional institutions to Nigeria’s continuing search for stronger national cohesion.

Across the country, traditional rulers remain important custodians of cultural memory, community identity and inherited systems of leadership. Their engagement can help preserve historical knowledge, encourage dialogue and create opportunities for cooperation among communities with different traditions.

For Elem Kalabari and Sokoto, a stronger relationship could create opportunities for cultural and educational exchanges, discussions on heritage preservation and greater awareness of the historical contributions of their respective peoples.

Such a relationship would derive its strength not merely from ceremonial encounters but from the willingness of both institutions to sustain meaningful engagement.

The meeting therefore offers an opportunity to move beyond symbolism and establish a foundation for continuing friendship.

It is also a reminder that the preservation of cultural identity and the promotion of national unity are not opposing objectives. Nigeria can celebrate the distinctiveness of its many peoples while encouraging the relationships that bring them closer together.

A NEW CHAPTER IN AN ENDURING NATIONAL STORY

The royal visit to Sokoto represents an important opportunity for Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari
to place the heritage of Elem Kalabari within a broader national conversation about friendship, cultural recognition and the future of traditional institutions.

As preparations continue for SE DIYE, the engagement with the Sultan reinforces the importance of connecting the restoration of cultural pride with the larger aspirations of peace, development and national unity.

The legacy of King Amakiri I remains an important part of the historical memory of Elem Kalabari. The legacy of the Sokoto Caliphate continues to inform the standing of the Sultanate. Their histories are distinct, but the contemporary relationship being cultivated between their institutions can create a shared contribution to Nigeria’s future.

For Buguma, December 19 will be a day of cultural significance. For the wider country, the invitation extended in Sokoto carries a broader message: that Nigeria’s traditional institutions can build bridges across its many communities and help strengthen the relationships on which a more united nation depends.

The visit has opened an opportunity for Elem Kalabari and Sokoto to deepen their friendship, honour their respective histories and demonstrate the enduring value of dialogue between Nigeria’s traditional institutions.

From the historic waterways of the Niger Delta to the ancient seat of the Sokoto Caliphate, the message is one of friendship, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the Nigerian project.

SE DIYE holds on Saturday, December 19, 2026, at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State.

By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo,
The Storyteller,
08109975621

BEYOND THE CONTROVERSY;


From the Niger Delta struggle to the throne of Elem Kalabari: a life shaped by conviction, sacrifice and service


By Al Humphrey Onyanabo

Some men are known for the battles they fight. Others are remembered for the positions they occupy. A few live lives that traverse so many different worlds that no single title, controversy or newspaper commentary can adequately explain who they are.

Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, is one such figure. His journey has taken him through religion, political agitation, imprisonment, entrepreneurship, community security and natural leadership. His name has featured prominently in the Niger Delta struggle, particularly in conversations about the rights of the Ijaw people, resource control and the relationship between Nigeria's oil wealth and the communities from which it is extracted.

Today, he occupies a natural leadership deeply rooted in Kalabari history. Yet his public life continues to attract attention, debate and controversy. To understand the man, one must look beyond the headlines and examine the experiences, convictions and responsibilities that have shaped his journey.

THE BOY CALLED KALA AMAKIRI

Born Melford Dokubo Goodhead Jr. to Hon. Justice Melford Dokubo Goodhead Snr. and Mrs. Bekinwari Melford Dokubo Goodhead, he came from the royal Amakiri dynasty of the Kalabari Kingdom in present-day Rivers State.

He lost his mother at an early age and was raised by his paternal grandmother, Princess Nene Okukuba Wilkinson Goodhead, whose influence remained central to his upbringing. She gave him the name Kala Amakiri, meaning Little Amakiri, in reverence to the historical legacy of King Amakiri I, a figure remembered in Kalabari history for his place in the formation of the kingdom.

His grandmother instilled in him a strong consciousness of his cultural heritage and royal ancestry. Growing up in a Christian family and the riverine environment of the Niger Delta, he experienced the traditions, values and social realities of his people.

His early years coincided with growing awareness of the contradictions between the enormous wealth extracted from the Niger Delta and the difficult conditions confronting many oil-producing communities.
Those contradictions would later become central to his political convictions.

EDUCATION, FAITH AND THE SEARCH FOR IDENTITY

His education began at Baptist Day School, Buguma and Township Primary School, Port Harcourt before he proceeded to Baptist High School, Port Harcourt. He later attended the University of Calabar and the University of Science & Technology, Port Harcourt, now Rivers State University.

His formative years were marked by independence of thought, an outspoken disposition and a willingness to question established assumptions. His search for identity and meaning eventually extended to religion. After a period of personal and intellectual exploration, he embraced Islam and adopted the name Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari.
He has described Islam as an important source of peace, discipline and spiritual direction in his life.

This journey reflected a defining feature of his character: a willingness to make personal choices according to his convictions, even when those choices differed from the expectations of his early environment.

THE NIGER DELTA STRUGGLE:

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari's national prominence grew during a period of heightened political agitation in the Niger Delta.
Communities across the oil-producing region had long raised concerns about environmental degradation, inadequate infrastructure, economic marginalisation and their share of the benefits derived from petroleum resources.

He became associated with the struggle for resource control and greater political and economic autonomy for the region. He was involved in the Ijaw National Congeess ( INC) and became one of the founding figures associated with the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) later serving as its president.

He subsequently emerged as the leader of the Niger Delta People's Salvation Front( the Political wing) NDPSF, and the Niger Delta People's Volunteer Force, NDPVF, becoming one of the most prominent and controversial figures of the Niger Delta region.

His activities brought him into direct confrontation with the Nigerian state. For his supporters, he represented a forceful voice for a region whose grievances had too often been neglected. His critics questioned his methods and political positions.

His was arrested and put on trial for treason. His imprisonment became a defining episode in his public life. He was released in July 2007 after spending twenty two months and ten days in detention. The experience did not end his engagement with the Niger Delta question. It became another chapter in a journey that would eventually take him from political agitation into natural leadership, enterprise and community development.

A RETURN TO ANCESTRY

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari's journey to the throne of Elem Kalabari unfolded through a series of natural and community milestones.
He had his personal chieftaincy stool in Edi Abali war canoe houses in 2004 from his maternal, maternal lineage.
He presented himself to Bugama Council of chiefs in 2007 and Se Diye on his personal stool in 2013. He went through all the stages of Kalabari chieftaincy creating his personal Chieftaincy to be the head of a major Kalabari war canoe house.

On 1st November 2023, he became Head of the Edi Abali Group of war canoe Houses of Kalabari. The Edi Abali stool is one of the most prominent war canoe houses, founded by the first Prime Minister of the kalabari State, Inabioboari Harry Braide ( Edi Abali)
On 9th November 2023, he performed Se Diye as Alabo Edi Abali of the Kingdom of Kalabari.

On 23 May 2024, the King Amachree Royal House in accordance with kalabari royal convention through the King Abbi House chose him as Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari. On the same day, the Kalabari Se Kobiri chose him as Amakiri Ekpeke ( meaning the shield and protector of the Kalabari Kingdom) Adding to his earlier title of Sebromabo of The Kingdom of Kalabari conferred on him by King T.J.T. Princewill , Amachree X1, Amanyanabo of The Kingdom of Kalabari.

The Rivers State Government subsequently recognized and gazetted him as Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari on the 8th October 2024. On 31 December 2024, the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara presented him with the staff of office as Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri.

He adopted the revered name of the founder of modern kalabari, Dabaye Amakiri I, connecting his reign to the historical personalities of Daba and of his son, King Amakiri 1. His emergence as a natural ruler marked a significant transition. The man who had spent years challenging established authority was now entrusted with the responsibilities of a natural institution that demands stewardship, preservation of heritage, community cohesion and development.

The throne is not simply a title. It is a responsibility to history and to future generations.

ELEM KALABARI: STRATEGIC OIL AND GAS ASSETS, NEGLECTED COMMUNITIES

Da Amakiri Tubo Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, The Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, presides over a chiefdom in the Kalabari Kingdom of considerable strategic importance to Nigeria's energy economy.

The wider area is associated with OML 18, an oil and gas block containing fields including Cawthorne Channel 1,2,3, Buguma Creek, Orubiri, Akakiri, part of Krakrama fields and Akaso oil and gas fields.

The region also hosts oil and gas infrastructure, including pipelines, flow stations and crude oil evacuation facilities.

The Cawthorne Channel's importance to oil production and evacuation further underscores the strategic position of this part of the Niger Delta. Yet, despite these valuable assets, communities in Elem Kalabari and Torusarama piri chiefdom continue to contend with poverty, environmental degradation, inadequate infrastructure and limited economic opportunities.
In February 2026, women from the community protested at Cawthorne Channel 2 Jetty, demanding environmental justice and greater participation in the oil economy.

For Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari, this contradiction is deeply personal. His people inhabit a landscape that contributes to Nigeria's energy economy, yet many continue to struggle with the consequences of neglect and environmental damage. He feels their pain and carries the responsibility of advocating for their welfare. His position places him at the intersection of Nigeria's national economic interests and the aspirations of the Niger Delta. Protecting energy infrastructure must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility, community security and meaningful economic opportunities for the people who host these assets.

The economic importance of Elem Kalabari and Torusarama Piri must be reflected in the wellbeing of its people, not measured only by the resources extracted from their homeland.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND COMMUNITY SECURITY

Beyond his political and natural roles, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari is an entrepreneur whose interests through the King Amachree Group of Companies include educational institutions, oil and gas, construction, dredging and reclamation, trading, logistics and consultancy.

His involvement in private security through Royal Fouche Services Ltd. represents another significant dimension of his public life. His company is in the forefront front of the battle against insurgency, working side by side with security agencies, they have left footprints in Abuja, Niger, Plateau, Zamfara, Anambra, Imo and Abia states.

In the Niger Delta, insecurity affects more than the movement of people. It disrupts fishing, commerce, education, investment and the relationships that sustain riverine communities.

For about five years, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari has personally sponsored security operations along the Kalabari–Emohua road. His private military contractor company, Royal Fouche Services Ltd, also know as Amama and Apapa Soldiers have secured the length of the road , night and day.
The reported monthly expenditure on salaries and logistics is approximately about ₦250 million. He foots this bill personally without any sort of support from the State Government or the six local governments of Emohua, Asari Toru, Akuku Toru, Degema, Bonny and Okrika who enjoy the service.

I have personally travelled this road during the day and at night and spoken with drivers and passengers about their experiences. I have also visited Elem Kalabari several times and witnessed security personnel conducting patrols on the waterways.
These experiences have given me firsthand insight into the security activities taking place in the area.

The significance of the initiative lies in the practical needs it addresses. Roads and waterways must be safe enough for people to travel, conduct business and sustain their livelihoods. Security is a necessary foundation for development.

In May 2025, Royal Fouche Services Ltd. rescued 19 passengers which included students who were on their Way to write WAEC Examination, military personal and others after they had been held captive for 21 days which resulted from a pirate attack along the Rivers State waterways. In late September, 2025, personnel of Royal Fouche Services Limited destrupted a grand Plot to stop oil production by blowing up pipelines and mass kidnapping of oil workers to press for the release of Mr Henry Okah who is in a South African prison for his part in the October 1st 2010 bombing of the Eagle Square, Abuja, with the seizure of large cache of arms and ammunition's which were subsequently handed over to security agencies

These activities represent an evolution in Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari's public engagement: from confronting the state over the conditions of the Niger Delta to participating in private-sector and community efforts to address insecurity.

THE CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING PIPELINE SURVEILLANCE CONTRACTS

It is against this background that Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari. Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri 's recent comments to Joel Omoshere Agho aka Mr Common Sense on pipeline surveillance contracts should be understood.

Da-Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari was on his own planning Se Diye, The final coronation billed for December 19th, 2026 when video by Mr Common, Sense Joel Omoshere Agho painting him in bad light went viral on social media. The video had the hand of Esau and the voice of Jacob behind it. In a widely circulated live video, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari averred that he is not Linked to any of the companies awarded the pipeline surveillance and protection contract.

He went to argue that Tantita and its Chairman Tom Polo, his fellow ijaw brother
should not be singled out while other figures associated with the surveillance business escaped comparable public questioning.
He stated categorically that Piprline Infrastructure Company ltd, associated with the Olu of warri and Osahon Osunbor earns far more than Tantita owned by Tom Polo

In a subsequent articles, writers have criticised Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari's remarks, questioning the evidence for the figures cited and arguing that public contracts should not be treated as the entitlement of any ethnic group.
The articles raises questions about transparency and accountability that deserve consideration. Public contracts should be open to scrutiny, and specific allegations must be assessed against documentary evidence.

But there is another dimension to Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari's intervention: his concern about what he sees as unequal treatment of Ijaw interests and the tendency to single out Tompolo's Tantita without applying comparable scrutiny to others involved in pipeline surveillance.

His position, as conveyed in the account underlying this profile, is that defending an Ijaw brother against what he perceives as selective criticism does not amount to declaring anyone above scrutiny.
It is a distinction worth understanding.

Tompolo is entitled to scrutiny like any other contractor. So are other companies and individuals involved in public contracts. The central questions are who received the contracts, under what terms, for what value, what payments were made and what services were delivered. For this, there is no need for name calling. The Freedom of Information Act clearly requires that individuals involved should made public amounts that they have received so far from our Common wealth.

But accountability should also be consistent. It should not become a selective exercise in which one individual is persistently questioned while comparable arrangements receive less attention.

The Niger Delta's history of economic exclusion makes questions about access to opportunities particularly sensitive. That history does not establish that any specific contract belongs to an ethnic group. It does, however, explain why the participation of Ijaw businesses and the equitable distribution of economic opportunities remain important public concerns.
Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari's intervention must be understood within that wider context.

THE 2023 ASO ROCK MEETING: A QUESTION OF PERSONAL INTEREST

There is another part of this story that deserves attention.
Following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's inauguration in 2023, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari visited him at the Presidential Villa in Aso Rock. Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu share a friendship and bond dating over 25 years.

During their conversation at Aso Rock Villa, the President reportedly asked whether he wished to have a share of the pipeline surveillance contract.

Dokubo-Asari's reported response was no.
The account is significant because it introduces a personal dimension to the present controversy. It suggests that, at the time of the meeting, he was not seeking a share of the contracts for himself.

The exchange also provides context for his subsequent public position on the treatment of Tompolo and the distribution of opportunities associated with pipeline surveillance. Its relevance lies in the distinction Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari has drawn between seeking a personal commercial benefit and speaking out over what he perceives as unequal treatment of his fellow Ijaw people.

From the very beginning, he was among those who applied for the contract but was not given. He fought against it, requesting it be distributed but he backed down when the Ijaw National Congress, INC and the Bayelsa State Government led by H.E Duoye Diri intervened.

His reason being that it is the ijaw platform that gave him all that he has become today and he cannot go against them. He gave his word that henceforth he would no pursue the matter . That neccesitated his response of no to the President because he could not go Back on his word to the ijaw nation. And since then, he has maintained that position.



BEYOND THE HEADLINES

Da Amakiri Tubo's life cannot be reduced to one video, one allegation or one newspaper article. He has been a religious seeker, political activist, Niger Delta agitator, prisoner, entrepreneur, security-sector participant and a natural ruler. His critics are entitled to question his statements, just as he is entitled to express his views and defend the positions he considers important. Neither criticism nor public advocacy should exempt anyone from the discipline of evidence.
His emergence as Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, places him within a natural institution whose significance extends beyond his individual life.

What ultimately defines this phase of his life will be the institutions he strengthens, the culture he preserves, the opportunities created for the next generation and the tangible improvements his people experience.
His political history will remain part of his biography. So will the controversies surrounding him. But neither should prevent a serious examination of his activities and responsibilities.

Da Amakiri Tubo's journey belongs within that fuller understanding.
Beyond the controversy lies a life that deserves to be examined in its entirety.

Beyond the crown lies the responsibility of service. And beyond the struggles of yesterday lies the enduring question of what can be achieved for the people of tomorrow.

...POLITICAL SOPHISTICATION AND NIGERIAN PUBLIC LIFE

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

Tribute to a remarkable gentleman, media titan, diplomat and distinguished son of the Kalabari Kingdom

Some men pass through life quietly, leaving behind memories cherished by a few. Others leave footprints across institutions, political movements, professional circles and cultural communities. Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole belonged to the latter category. He was a man whose presence commanded attention, whose personality defied convention, and whose life reflected a fascinating intersection of Kalabari heritage, Nigerian journalism, diplomacy and high-level political engagement.

With his passing, Nigeria has lost a remarkable personality whose story deserves to be remembered not merely for the offices he occupied, but also for the character, connections and distinctive flair with which he inhabited them. For the Kalabari Kingdom, his departure carries an even deeper significance: it marks another step in the gradual fading of a generation of distinguished sons whose contributions helped shape their community and the wider Nigerian nation.

A Man Who Understood the Power of Presence

Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole was a flamboyant and unmistakable personality. He possessed the kind of confidence that made him memorable in a room, whether among traditional rulers, political leaders, media professionals or members of Nigeria's social elite.

His flamboyance was part of his public identity, but beneath the outward elegance was a man who understood the importance of influence, relationships and institutional power. He moved comfortably across different worlds, bringing to each the sophistication of someone who had experienced Nigeria from several important vantage points. He always stood out with his big fat Cuban cigar.

He was, in many respects, a bridge between the traditions of an older Nigerian establishment and the evolving realities of a modern nation.

A Distinguished Career in Nigerian Journalism

His contributions to Nigerian journalism remain an important part of his legacy. As Managing Director of the Daily Times, one of the country's most historically significant newspaper institutions, he occupied a position of considerable responsibility at a time when newspapers played a central role in national debate, political consciousness and the shaping of public opinion.

Leadership in such an institution demanded judgment, an understanding of the national mood and the ability to navigate the delicate relationship between journalism, government and society.

His association with The Guardian, where he served as a director, further connected him to an important chapter in the development of Nigerian journalism. These institutions occupied significant places in the country's media history, and his involvement in their leadership reflected his standing within the professional and public establishment.

His career reminds us that journalism is more than the production of newspapers. At its best, it is an instrument of national memory, democratic accountability and the contest of ideas.

A Man of Political Connections and Strategic Relationships

Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole also occupied an interesting place in Nigeria's political history through his close association with the late Shehu Musa Yar'Adua, one of the country's influential political strategists and coalition builders.

Yar'Adua understood the importance of ideas, organisation, personal relationships and the cultivation of leaders capable of shaping the national conversation. Those who moved within his circle experienced a period in which political engagement was often built through sustained dialogue, trusted relationships and the search for a broader Nigerian consensus.

Cole's association with Yar'Adua connected him to that influential political environment and the wider network of personalities who experienced the intrigues, possibilities and challenges of Nigerian political development.

He subsequently served as Senior Special Assistant to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, bringing his experience and public-life connections into the presidential environment.

These associations reflected a life lived close to the centres of national decision-making. They also placed him within the continuing story of Nigeria's struggle to reconcile political ambition, national unity, institutional development and democratic aspirations.

A Distinguished Son of the Kalabari Kingdom

For the Kalabari people, Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole was more than a media executive, diplomat or political personality. He was a distinguished son of a kingdom whose history is inseparable from the development of commerce, maritime enterprise, diplomacy and cultural exchange in the Niger Delta.

The Kalabari have long maintained a proud tradition of engaging the wider world. Through trade, education, enterprise and public service, generations of Kalabari men and women have contributed to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria.

Cole belonged to a generation that carried aspects of this heritage into the national establishment. His life demonstrated that one could remain connected to the cultural identity of one's people while operating confidently on the larger Nigerian stage.

His flamboyant style, social confidence and distinctive public persona made him recognisable. Yet his deeper significance lies in his professional accomplishments, his place in the national establishment and his contribution to the story of a people whose sons and daughters have consistently reached beyond their immediate environment to engage the wider world.

The Passing of a Generation of Great Kalabari Sons

Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole belonged to a remarkable generation of Kalabari sons whose names became associated with influence, enterprise, public service and distinction. He was of the generation of Chief Tonye Graham-Douglas, Chief Tom Fabian, who is still alive, Chief O. B. Lulu-Briggs, Chief A. K. Horsfall and a handful of other eminent personalities who occupied significant positions in their respective fields and helped shape the social, political and economic landscape of their time.

They were men of different temperaments and professional backgrounds, but they shared a common historical experience: they came of age in a period when Kalabari sons established themselves in influential circles, built formidable networks and made their presence felt in the affairs of Rivers State and Nigeria.

With each passing, the ranks of this generation grow thinner. Their departure is not merely the loss of individuals; it is the gradual closing of a chapter in Kalabari history. They represented a generation whose experiences, relationships and accomplishments connected the traditional world of their upbringing to the institutions and power structures of modern Nigeria.

The painful question confronting the present generation is: who will take their place?

The concern is not that younger Kalabari men and women lack talent or ambition. Rather, it is that the accumulated experience, national reach, institutional knowledge and established relationships of an entire generation cannot be replaced overnight. Such qualities are developed over decades, through participation in public life, professional achievement, personal sacrifice and the responsibilities that come with leadership.

A people cannot live forever on the glory of their illustrious past. They must consciously prepare successors who will preserve their heritage, renew their influence and create achievements of their own.

It is therefore not enough to mourn these distinguished sons when they pass away. Their stories must be documented, their contributions properly recorded and their experiences transmitted to younger generations. The histories of their successes, struggles, relationships and service constitute an invaluable inheritance that should not disappear with them.

The passing of Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole is another reminder that an era is gradually drawing to a close. The challenge before the Kalabari Kingdom is to ensure that this transition does not become a permanent vacuum in leadership, enterprise, public service and national influence.

May the memory of this generation inspire the emergence of another, equally committed to excellence, community development and the advancement of the Kalabari people.

Farewell to a Remarkable Gentleman

Today, we bid farewell to Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole: distinguished Kalabari chief, media executive, diplomat, political insider and an unmistakable personality in Nigerian public life.

We remember his leadership at the Daily Times, his association with The Guardian, his relationship with Shehu Musa Yar'Adua and his service in the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. We remember, too, the cultural identity he carried and the individual style that made him stand apart.

His life intersected with important chapters of Nigeria's national story, while his passing reminds us of the responsibility to preserve the histories of the remarkable men and women who have helped shape the Kalabari Kingdom.

As we mourn him, we also reflect on the gradual departure of a generation whose contributions deserve to be remembered and whose example should challenge those who follow to build institutions, nurture talent and take their rightful place in national life.

Farewell, Ambassador. Chief. Dr. Patrick Dele Cole.

May your journey beyond this world be peaceful. May your memory endure in the history of Nigerian journalism, in the recollections of those who shared your journey, and in the collective memory of the Kalabari people.

May God grant you eternal rest and comfort your family, friends, associates and the entire Kalabari Kingdom at this time of loss.

My one consolation is that finally, he and his bossom buddy, Dr. Stanley Macebuh will hook up on the other side of the divide and continue their jolly life once again.
They excelled... they lived...they rocked - God bless their souls. Amen.


By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo,
The Storyteller,
Tel; 08109975621
Email. nigeria360online@gmail.com

•••Says, Niger Delta Development Is The Responsibility of State Governors And Relevant Development Agencies, Not Private Citizens


The Palace of the Amanyanabo of the Source (Elem Kalabari, Torusaramapiri), Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Dabaye Amakiri I, has taken note of the recent response from the Palace of the Olu of Warri to issues raised by Da Amakiri Tubo concerning the controversial ₦2.7 trillion pipeline security contract allegation.

Rather than address the substance of the issues raised, the response from the Warri Palace appears more concerned with name-calling and personal invectives. This is unfortunate and does nothing to answer the fundamental questions raised in the Amanyanabo's live broadcast in response to the mischief of one Mr. Joel Omosere Agho.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Amanyanabo of the Source was not defending High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo. His reference to Tompolo was made in the context of the selective criticism directed at Niger Delta leaders, particularly when other individuals involved in the same pipeline security business, some of whom are alleged to earn even more, have been conspicuously excluded from the same scrutiny.

The central issue is simple: why should Niger Delta leaders who participated in the struggle over the exploitation and neglect of the region be singled out for criticism while other alleged beneficiaries of pipeline security contracts escape similar questions?

Joel Omosere Agho, popularly known as Mr. Common Sense, had recently challenged Niger Delta leaders, including Tompolo and Dokubo-Asari, over the region's persistent underdevelopment despite the billions of naira reportedly accruing from pipeline security contracts. He argued that leaders who once fought against the Federal Government in the 2000s have since gained access to government and lucrative contracts, yet the Niger Delta remains environmentally degraded, economically disadvantaged and infrastructurally underdeveloped.

These are legitimate issues that deserve serious public discussion. However, accountability must not become a selective exercise in which some individuals are targeted while others connected to the same business are spared.

If Mr. Agho is genuinely interested in transparency and accountability, the Amanyanabo of the Source challenges him to explain the basis for concentrating his criticism on Tompolo and Dokubo-Asari while overlooking the Olu of Warri and Osahon Idahosa, who are beneficiaries of pipeline security contracts and reportedly receive sums exceeding Tompolo's earnings. Is it because they are his kinsmen from Itsekiri and Benin, while Tompolo is Ijaw?

The same questions should be directed at every other reported beneficiary. If the objective is accountability, no individual should be exempt from scrutiny because of ethnicity, political connections, traditional status or personal relationships.

Why single out Tompolo, who is said to receive less, and Dokubo-Asari, who is not even connected to the pipeline security contracts in question, while remaining silent about others alleged to be earning more?

That is the inconsistency the Amanyanabo of the Source has challenged. It is not a defence of Tompolo; it is a demand for fairness, consistency and intellectual honesty.

The Amanyanabo further maintains that the history of pipeline security contracts in the Niger Delta must be examined honestly. For years, individuals and businesses from outside the region, including Nigerians from other ethnic groups, reportedly participated in and benefited from this line of business. The involvement of Niger Delta indigenes in such contracts expanded under the administration of former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke.

If the business was considered legitimate when outsiders participated and accumulated wealth from it, on what moral grounds should Niger Delta indigenes, especially the Ijaws, be condemned simply for participating in the same business?

This does not remove the need for accountability, nor does it excuse any individual from answering legitimate questions about the region's development. It does, however, raise questions about the fairness of condemning certain targeted individuals while ignoring other beneficiaries.

Dokubo-Asari has consistently maintained that his involvement in the Niger Delta struggle came at a significant personal cost. He has stated that he was detained 73 times and charged with treason under the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

His struggle was driven by longstanding grievances over the exploitation of the region's resources, environmental degradation, poverty, marginalisation and the failure to deliver development to the communities from which Nigeria's wealth is extracted.

The Amanyanabo therefore questions the rationale behind holding Dokubo-Asari responsible for the Niger Delta's development challenges without establishing what public office he occupies, what development funds he controls or what statutory responsibility he bears for delivering infrastructure and public services.

Is Dokubo-Asari one of the governors of the Niger Delta states who receive monthly statutory allocations from the Federation Account to govern and develop their respective states?

Has he ever been appointed to head the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the former Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, the South South Development Commission, the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority or any other interventionist agency entrusted with specific responsibilities for regional development?

These questions are central to the Amanyanabo's position that public accountability must be tied to actual responsibility.

Pipeline security contracts are commercial arrangements for the protection of oil and gas infrastructure. Whatever the earnings of private contractors, such contracts do not automatically confer on their beneficiaries the constitutional responsibilities of elected governments or the statutory mandates of public development institutions. Though they are expected to carry out Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) in their areas of operations.

If the Niger Delta remains underdeveloped after decades of oil exploration, the inquiry must extend to the governments, agencies and institutions entrusted with the region's development, as well as the oil companies whose activities have affected its environment and communities.

The Niger Delta Development Commission was established to promote the sustainable development of the region. The responsibilities of the relevant state governments and interventionist institutions must therefore be part of any serious assessment of why the region continues to face development challenges.

The same scrutiny should extend to the management of public funds, the implementation of development projects, the condition of public infrastructure and the delivery of essential services to oil-producing communities.

The Amanyanabo of the Source is not suggesting that private contractors should be exempt from legitimate questions about their earnings, contractual arrangements or contributions to host communities. Rather, he insists that accountability must follow responsibility.

If Mr. Agho wants answers about the failure of governance and the persistence of poverty in the Niger Delta, he must look beyond private contractors and examine the performance of those who receive public allocations, administer development funds and exercise statutory authority over regional development.

It is intellectually inconsistent to demand that private citizens answer for the failures of governments and interventionist agencies while leaving those institutions largely outside the conversation.

If the objective is genuinely to secure development for the Niger Delta, then the questions must be directed at every relevant actor according to their actual responsibilities, not selectively at individuals whose past struggles have made them convenient targets for public criticism.

The Amanyanabo of the Source will not accept a narrative in which Niger Delta leaders are made convenient scapegoats while other beneficiaries and the institutions responsible for regional development are shielded from meaningful scrutiny.

On the recent evasive and puerile statement that emanated from the so-called Palace of the Olu of Warri, the Warri Palace must understand that its response has not settled the issues raised. Referring to the Amanyanabo of the Source in a manner that invites personal exchanges cannot substitute for a substantive response to the questions surrounding the alleged ₦2.7 trillion pipeline security payments.

Since the Warri Palace chose to respond publicly, it should address the substance of the controversy publicly.

What is the basis of the figures attributed to the alleged beneficiaries? What are the actual contractual arrangements? Who are the beneficiaries, and what are their respective interests? What mechanisms ensure that host communities receive tangible benefits from the enormous economic activity taking place on their ancestral lands and waters?

If the figures attributed to the Olu of Warri and Osahon Idahosa are inaccurate, the appropriate response is to present verifiable facts that correct the record. If there are other relevant details, they should be made clear to the public.

These questions are neither insults nor attacks on any individual. They are questions of public interest concerning the management of the resources and infrastructure that sustain Nigeria's oil economy.

The Amanyanabo of the Source maintains that the public deserves facts, not distractions. The controversy cannot be resolved through provocative language, personal attacks or attempts to divert attention from the financial and contractual issues at stake.

For the records, the Amanyanabo of the Source, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Dabaye Amakiri I, rejects any attempt to diminish his royal standing, ancestral pedigree or the historical significance of the Kalabari traditional institution.

Da Amakiri Tubo is the son of a former Rivers State High Court judge, late Justice Melford Goodhead Dokubo and a descendant of the revered Amakiri royal dynasty, a lineage whose history is inseparable from the traditional identity and political heritage of the Kalabari Nation.

The Kalabari traditional institution is an ancient and revered institution rooted in ancestry, customary law, historical continuity and the heritage of its people. It is not a title manufactured in a government office, nor is its legitimacy a political favour awarded by any administration.

Governments may recognise traditional institutions for administrative purposes, but they do not create the ancestral heritage, customary legitimacy or historical authority from which such institutions derive their identity.

The Amanyanabo of the Source therefore does not need the approval of the Palace of the Olu of Warri, or the validation of any government, to establish the pedigree of the Amakiri dynasty and the institution he occupies.

The history of the Kalabari people predates contemporary political arrangements, and no palace can rewrite that history through provocative language or calculated disrespect.

Let it be clearly understood: the Amanyanabo of the Source will not accept a contrived equivalence between his revered royal institution and any other traditional establishment simply because another palace wishes to assert parity.

Royal pedigree is not established by self-proclamation, publicity or political patronage. It is examined through historical records, customary law, ancestral succession and the traditions of the people concerned.

The Amanyanabo of the Source is secure in his ancestry, his royal lineage and the traditional institution he represents. He has no need to compete for historical validation with the Olu of Warri, and he will not permit the dignity of the Kalabari throne to be dragged into a contest of egos.

If the Palace of the Olu of Warri has substantive answers to the questions raised over the ₦2.7 trillion pipeline security payments, it should provide them. If it disputes the historical or financial claims made in the controversy, it should present verifiable evidence.

Resorting to provocative nomenclature and personal attacks will neither erase the history of the Amakiri dynasty nor answer the questions before the public.

The Kalabari throne derives its dignity from its people, its ancestry and its history, not from the permission of another palace. The Amanyanabo of the Source will not surrender that dignity to satisfy anyone's sense of royal importance.

The Amanyanabo of the Source therefore reiterates his challenge: let those who have questions ask them openly, and let those whose names or interests arise in the controversy respond with verifiable facts.

If Mr. Agho seeks answers, he should pursue every relevant lead, including the named beneficiaries who are said to receive more than Tompolo. He should also direct appropriate questions to the governments and public institutions constitutionally or statutorily responsible for the development of the Niger Delta.

If the Warri Palace has facts that contradict the figures or allegations raised, it should present them clearly rather than resort to personal attacks.

No one should be above scrutiny, and no one should be condemned selectively.

The people of the Niger Delta deserve the truth about pipeline security contracts, their beneficiaries and the development outcomes. They deserve an honest assessment of why a region that contributes enormously to Nigeria's national wealth continues to struggle with environmental degradation, inadequate infrastructure and poverty.

They deserve more than accusations, evasions and name-calling.

The issue is not who can trade the harshest words. The issue is who is prepared to account for the facts, accept responsibility where it properly belongs and answer the questions that matter to the people of the Niger Delta.

Let the records speak.

Signed:

Alabo Daerefa-a Christopher Braide
Spokesman and Chief Press Secretary to the Amanyanabo of the Source (Elem Kalabari, Torusaramapiri).

Transformation College of Business & Technology (TC) will on Thursday, October 1, host its 2026 Mentors’ Day as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.

The free virtual event, themed **“Leadership, Innovation and the Next Generation of Change-Makers,”** will bring together young professionals, learners, industry leaders, mentors and organisations from across Africa.

The programme is scheduled to begin at 11:00am WAT and will be held via Zoom. Participation is open to the public.

Founder and Proprietor of Transformation College, Dr. Orlando Olumide Odejide, and Founder of TEMCA Women Network, Dr. Chinwe Sophia Onuorah, are expected to speak at the event.

The speakers will focus on leadership, innovation and the role of young Africans in shaping the future of Nigeria and the continent.

Odejide said the Independence anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the responsibility of equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge required to contribute to national development.

“Independence was won by people who believed a greater Nigeria was possible. Sixty-six years on, the task is to equip the people who will build it,” he said.

“Mentors’ Day puts experienced leaders face to face with young professionals who are hungry to grow. There is no better way for us to celebrate our nation than by investing in its people.”

The event will also feature the official launch of three new academic programmes by the College.

They are AI Business Analyst and AI Automation Specialist; Entrepreneurship & Business Management; and Diploma in Information Systems.

According to the College, the programmes will be delivered live online by industry practitioners and, like its existing programmes, will be offered without tuition fees.

Transformation College is also opening the event to businesses and organisations interested in connecting with emerging talent.

The College said participating brands will have opportunities to network with learners, explore partnerships and sponsorships, support future cohorts, provide mentors and speakers, as well as consider internship and graduate placement opportunities.

The Mentors’ Day comes as Transformation College continues to expand its tuition-free virtual education model across Africa.

Founded by Odejide, the College is a fully virtual, pan-African institution offering tuition-free diploma programmes. It is certified to ISO 9001:2015 for quality management and ISO 21001:2018 for educational organisations.

The College said it served more than 2,000 students across nine programmes in 2025, with support from more than 30 trainers.

Its 2026 graduating class included learners from Nigeria, Malawi and Uganda.

The Mentors’ Day will hold on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 11:00am WAT via Zoom, with admission free to participants.

Please use the link to register

https:///yw2WGxJRHABjCm936

A cultural celebration tagged **“My SeDiye”** has been scheduled to hold on December 19, 2026, at the King Amachree Memorial Hall in Buguma, Rivers State.

The event, described as **“A Day of Culture, Unity & Celebration,”** is designed to bring people together to celebrate tradition, heritage and cultural identity.

The invitation, issued with the compliments of **Da Amakiri Tụbo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri**, calls on members of the community and guests to attend the celebration.

The event is expected to provide an opportunity for participants to honour their cultural heritage, strengthen unity and celebrate the traditions passed down through generations.

The organisers described the gathering as a celebration of **“our heritage, our pride and our legacy,”** underscoring the emphasis on preserving cultural values and identity.

The celebration will take place at **King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma**, on **Saturday, December 19, 2026**.

The organisers urged members of the public to join the gathering and be part of the cultural celebration.

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari has described as sad, vexatious and provocative allegations by the Udekama council of Chiefs accusing his private Military contractor company, Royal Fouche services limited of being an occupation army and land grabbers.

Speaking with reporters following allegations made against him and Royal Fouche Security Services, the Amanyanabo of the Source, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, said he was saddened by the allegations, describing them as a distortion of a longstanding land dispute between neighbouring communities.

Asked for his reaction to allegations describing Royal Fouche as an “army of occupation,” and to claims linking him personally to alleged attacks and territorial expansion, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari said:

“I felt saddened when I heard these allegations. I came back home after a long time away from Rivers State to read about this vexatious allegations against me."

This is a dispute that existed long before I was born. I was not a party to the court cases from which these allegations appear to have arisen, and I have never claimed ownership of the land in question.”

He said that to understand the present controversy, it was necessary to go back to history.

THE SCUTTLED OBUAMA YEAR 2020 - 2025 DEVELOPMENT PLAN

According to Da Amakiri Tubo, Obuama had a longstanding practice of preparing periodic development plans, including five-year development plans, under which portions of community land were allocated to deserving members who applied for land for development.

In 2020, he said, portions of land were accordingly allocated for development along the corridor of the major road linking Tema, Okpo, Obuama Degema and Abonema.

The road itself was constructed in 1973 during the administration of Commander Diete Spiff, and, according to him compensation was paid to the affected communities.

He stressed that the communities along the corridor traditionally had land on both sides of the road.

According to him, it was as the people of Obuama wanted to start implementing its development plans that the people of Usokun challenged the development, claiming that the land belonged to them and taking the matter to court.

“What is important,” he said, “is that there was no injunction stopping Obuama from developing the land. Yet Obuama chose to hold back because they wanted peace and wanted the matter to be resolved through the courts rather than through confrontation.”

“THIS WAS NOT A DISPUTE CREATED BY ME”

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari said the court proceedings and legal records demonstrate that the controversy was much older than the current allegations.
All the court cases instituted by the Udekama people have been adjudication in favour of the Obuama people. Yet the Udekama people keep bringing up new cases instead of appealing the judgements and wasting everybody's time".

He referred to DHC/76/CS/2020, HRH Chief Charles Sunday-Ugu VII & 3 Ors. v. Chief Kalada Samuel Harry & Anor., where the High Court considered whether the claimants' case was caught by estoppel/res judicata and whether they had established their title to the disputed land.

According to the judgment summary available to him, the court found the claimants caught by the earlier litigation, including the 1938 Native Court judgment in favour of Obuama, which had not been set aside.

The court also found that the claimants failed to establish their title through the traditional evidence presented.

“My question is simple,” he said. “If this dispute was already before the courts and I was not a party to it, how have I now become the person responsible for the dispute?”

“WHERE IS THE OCCUPATION?”

He also strongly rejected the description of Royal Fouche Security Services as an “army of occupation.”

“Occupation of what?” he asked.

“Royal Fouche has provided security on land and waterways across communities in four Local Government Areas for approximately four years. Yet those making this allegation have not identified one portion of land that Royal Fouche has taken over.

“Where is the community that has been displaced? Where is the land that has been seized?

He said the organisation's security activities should not be confused with ownership or occupation of land.

He also questioned why, if Royal Fouche was truly an “occupation army,” other communities where it has operated merritoriously around the country have not raised similar allegations.

According to him, Royal Fouche has provided security for over four years without payment from the State Government or the four Local Government Areas concerned along the Emuohia / Kalabari road and continue to do so. The efforts of Royal Fouche services Ltd put paid to the activities of Kidnapping and armed robbery along that corridor. You have to speak to people to confirm the positive impact of my men in the discharge of their duties in this area. Talk to people from various communities. Talk to transporters, they will tell you their ugly experiences before now and the present level of safety and peace of mind they enjoy on that route all thanks to Amama/ Apapa Soldiers ".

THE COURTS HAVE DETERMINED WHO OWNS THE LAND

Da Amakiri Tubo maintained that the issue of land ownership has severally been determined by the courts and allegations of criminal conduct should be investigated by the appropriate authorities.

“I have nothing to fear from lawful investigation. But serious allegations such as genocide, terrorism or occupation should not be used casually.

“If there is evidence of wrongdoing, let the evidence be produced and let the appropriate authorities investigate it.

“But do not take a longstanding dispute between neighbouring communities, attach my name to it when I was never a party to the litigation, and then create a completely different narrative around it.”

THE HISTORICAL ACCOUNT

Da Amakiri Tubo also gave a historical account of how the Udekama people came to occupy the area they now claim as their ancestral land.

According to him, his forebear, King Amakiri I, whom he described as the founder of the modern Kalabari Kingdom, brought the people from the Andoni area and settled them in their present abode.

“They were brought from Engenni ( in the present East Ahoada local Government Area of Rivers State)
and settled in their present abode by King Amakiri 1 among the Kalabari people” he added.

According to the history passed down to him, they served as buffers, living on the fringes by the sea front. During periods of warfare, their job was to provide intelligence on impending attacks.

He further described the Udekama people as ingrates who owe their education and development significantly to the benevolence of the Kalabari people and the Baptist Convention.

“My concern is that people who were historically accommodated and supported should not now turn around and challenge the people who accommodated them and claim ownership of their land,” he said.

He said the historical account should be examined alongside the documentary and judicial records rather than being allowed to become a source of ethnic confrontation.

Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari maintains that his overriding concern remains peace among neighbouring communities with the Kalabari kingdom.

“The people of Obuama have chosen peace and the courts over confrontation. That peaceful disposition should not be mistaken for weakness.

“We must separate the land dispute from the security question and allow evidence, the law and the courts to determine the issues.”

He concluded,

"I welcome a judicial panel of enquiry by the State Government to investigate the accusation of land grabbing".

Transformation College of Business and Technology has graduated its 2026 Summer Diploma Programme class, with graduands from Nigeria, Malawi and Uganda completing the tuition-free, fully online programme. The graduation ceremony, held virtually on Saturday, September 5, 2026, lasted close to three hours and brought together graduands, their spouses, children and trainers from different parts of Africa.

None of the graduands paid tuition for the programme.

The ceremony began with graduands introducing themselves and identifying where they participated in the programme, with participants joining from Lagos, Jos South in Plateau State, Warri in Delta State, Benin City, Damaturu in Yobe State, Ibadan, Ondo, Abuja, as well as Malawi and Uganda.

The diversity of locations highlighted the pan-African reach of Transformation College and its fully virtual approach to education.

Some graduands were supported by members of their families during the ceremony, while Maria Mussah and Alexander Mtirah, a husband-and-wife couple from Malawi, were among those who graduated together.

The Summer Diploma Programme is delivered entirely online, with students assessed continuously throughout the programme.

During the ceremony, graduands reported varying levels of attendance, ranging from 50 per cent to full attendance, while most said they completed all required assessments.

One graduand reported completing 45 of the 48 assessments required for the programme.

Asked which aspects of the curriculum had made the greatest impact on them, graduands identified ISO management-system standards as the most significant, followed by artificial intelligence, business analysis, project management and personal excellence.

A graduand, Ismail Sorunke from Ondo State, also suggested that ISO 26000 should be added to the curriculum to strengthen its coverage of social responsibility within the broader Environmental, Social and Governance framework.

Another graduand, Gyang Bot Sylvanus from Jos South, described the outcome simply, saying he was now a diploma holder in business analysis.

The college also confirmed that certificates would be sent by email to graduands who had completed the required clearance process.

The graduation ceremony also provided an opportunity for the graduands to recognise the trainers and staff who supported them throughout the programme.

For several minutes, the chat section of the virtual ceremony was filled with the names of trainers, including Sola, Segun Lawal, Bolaji, Jumoke, Vincent, Damilare, Mofe, Tinuke, Obinna, Feyisayo and Tobi, among others.

Graduands praised the facilitators for their expertise and commitment to ensuring that students completed the programme.

Nike Nwobodo described the facilitators as grounded in their respective fields, while Aihanuwa Okungbowa said there were too many people to mention individually within the available time.

Particular commendation was given to the college's School Administrator, Merci, for her consistent reminders and follow-up with students throughout the programme.

Rick Godwin Edward, who joined the ceremony from Uganda, said her constant reminders and follow-up helped him complete the programme when it appeared difficult at some points.

Gyang Bot Sylvanus also recalled how Merci helped him continue with his studies after his WhatsApp stopped working by sending his assignments to him through email.

Several graduands said they would miss her voice and regular reminders.

Other members of the college team recognised during the ceremony included Edith Ugochukwu, Director of Programmes; Boma Al Onyanabo, General Manager; Adedamola Gboshe, Academic Coordinator; and Emmanuel Sinuola, IT Manager.

The founder of Transformation College, Dr Orlando Olumide Odejide, also charged the graduands to put their newly acquired knowledge and qualifications into practical use.

Following his call for action, more than 15 graduands responded within about 90 seconds by repeatedly typing, "I will start now."

The guest speakers at the ceremony - Mr Babatope Makun and Mrs Lydia Quayson Adeji - also delivered an address and shared practical resources with the graduating class, including a personal development video library, a channel for verified global job opportunities and a newly launched product.

Transformation College of Business and Technology was founded on the principle that the cost of education should not determine who has access to quality learning opportunities.

The institution operates as a tuition-free, fully virtual and pan-African college and is certified to ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 27001 for information security.

Since its establishment, the college has served more than 2,000 learners across nine programmes, supported by a faculty of more than 30 trainers.

Its students and graduates are spread across Nigeria and other African countries, including Malawi and Uganda, with training covering areas such as business analysis, project management, information systems and artificial intelligence.

Although the programmes are tuition-free, the college maintains compulsory assessments, attendance tracking and a clearance process before certificates are issued.

The institution therefore maintains that free education does not mean reduced academic standards, with students expected to meet the same requirements throughout their programmes.

Speaking towards the end of the ceremony, Edith Ugochukwu urged graduands and guests to support the college's foundation to enable it to extend quality education to underserved communities across Africa.

Graduands were also encouraged to join the college's alumni community, which connects graduates from different cohorts and countries.

The college's next intake is scheduled to open in November across four programmes: Entrepreneurship and Business Management, Diploma in Information Systems, Certified AI Business Analyst and AI Automation Specialist.

The four programmes will remain tuition-free and fully online, with applications open to learners across Africa who are willing to meet the academic requirements.

As the ceremony ended, one of the graduands, writing under the name Kachi, congratulated the graduating class on achieving the milestone.

Reacher Corporate Tech (RCT), a Lagos-based technology and brand growth company, has officially commenced operations, positioning itself as an integrated partner for businesses and institutions seeking to strengthen their digital presence, public reputation and brand visibility.

The company was established in response to a recurring challenge identified by its leadership during technical and brand audits of established Nigerian organisations: businesses with genuine revenue, significant reach and years of hard-earned credibility can lose public trust through seemingly minor gaps in their digital infrastructure.

These gaps can include broken contact links, incomplete Google Business profiles, outdated websites, inconsistent branding, poor search visibility and disconnected digital platforms. While such issues may not immediately appear in financial or sales reports, RCT says they can gradually undermine a brand's credibility and influence how prospective customers, partners and stakeholders perceive the organisation.

“VISITORS DON'T COMPLAIN WHEN SOMETHING FEELS SLIGHTLY OFF. THEY JUST QUIETLY RECALIBRATE, TRUST THE BRAND A LITTLE LESS, AND MOVE ON WITHOUT EVER SAYING WHY. FOR A BRAND THAT TOOK YEARS TO BUILD CREDIBILITY, THAT'S AN EXPENSIVE KIND OF SILENCE,” SAID BOMA AL ONYANABO, FOUNDER OF REACHER CORPORATE TECH.

“We built RCT on one principle — reach without infrastructure is fragile, and infrastructure without visibility is invisible. Our job is to make sure neither is left to chance.”

RCT operates across four core disciplines: Information Technology, Media and Public Relations, Strategic Consulting, and Independent Audit.

At the centre of its offering is its Brand PR & Media Visibility service, which is supported by a managed publication and social distribution network designed to help clients strengthen their public visibility and communicate their work to relevant audiences.

The company's supporting services include website development, search engine optimisation and discoverability, mobile application development, email marketing and YouTube channel management.

RCT's delivery model is built around a four-stage methodology — Diagnose, Build, Amplify and Prove.

The process begins with an assessment of a client's existing digital footprint, allowing the company to identify technical, visibility and brand-related gaps before recommending or implementing solutions.

The Build stage focuses on addressing identified infrastructure and digital presence requirements, while Amplify covers the strategic distribution of a brand's message across relevant media and digital channels.

The final stage, Prove, is designed to provide measurable evidence of delivery, enabling clients to assess outcomes rather than relying solely on activity reports.

“WHAT SETS THIS APART IS THE DISCIPLINE BEHIND IT. EVERY ENGAGEMENT STARTS WITH EVIDENCE, NOT ASSUMPTIONS, AND ENDS WITH SOMETHING THE CLIENT CAN POINT TO AND VERIFY,” SAID TEMITOPE FAMAKINDE, GENERAL MANAGER OF REACHER CORPORATE TECH.

“That's the standard we hold every deliverable to, from a single audit to a full campaign.”

RCT says its prospective client base includes small and medium-sized businesses establishing their online presence, growing brands preparing for launches or repositioning, institutions seeking to modernise their digital footprint, as well as public and corporate figures seeking to manage and strengthen their professional reputation.

The company also incorporates recognised governance and technical principles into its service delivery, including ISO 27001 information security principles and ITIL service management practices. RCT says these frameworks are applied according to the size, requirements and operational realities of each client rather than through a one-size-fits-all approach.

According to the company, its integrated model is designed to address a common problem in digital brand management, where websites, search visibility, applications, public relations and reputation management are handled by separate vendors with limited coordination.

RCT instead seeks to provide businesses and institutions with a single partner capable of connecting their technical infrastructure with their visibility and reputation objectives.

The company is now accepting new client engagements as it begins operations in Nigeria.

About Reacher Corporate Tech

Reacher Corporate Tech (RCT) is a Lagos-based technology and brand growth company operating across Information Technology, Media and Public Relations, Strategic Consulting, and Independent Audit.

The company positions itself as an integrated partner for organisations seeking to strengthen their digital infrastructure, discoverability, public visibility and professional reputation.

RCT's guiding principle is “Engineering Digital Trust.”

Media Contact

Temitope Famakinde
General Manager, Reacher Corporate Tech
info@reachercorptech.com
0810 988 4550 / 0912 434 6638
www.reachercorptech.com

“He understands our struggle and will give the Ijaw people a voice in Abuja” — Dokubo-Asari

ABUJA — A prominent voice in the Niger Delta struggle, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, has publicly endorsed the aspiration of Hon. Engr. Elvis Donkemezuo, FNSE, to represent the Yenagoa–Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections.

Dokubo-Asari made his position known in Abuja during a gathering of prominent Ijaw leaders and veterans of the Niger Delta struggle, where Donkemezuo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the constituency, paid homage to him and formally presented his political ambition.

Speaking during the meeting, Dokubo-Asari described Donkemezuo as a “great son of Ijaw land” and recalled their shared involvement in the struggle for the advancement and welfare of the Ijaw people.

He said the 2027 election should be viewed beyond party politics, stressing the need for representatives who understand the history, challenges and aspirations of the Ijaw people.

“With people like Engr. Elvis, who are conversant with the problems of the Ijaw people, the voice of the Ijaws and our challenges will be heard in the National Assembly,” he said.

Dokubo-Asari further pledged his personal support for Donkemezuo, promising to use both his words and actions to support his aspiration and work towards his emergence in 2027.

A Record of Ijaw Advocacy

Donkemezuo brings a longstanding history of involvement in Ijaw advocacy and Niger Delta affairs. He was the pioneer coordinator of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Abuja Chapter, and later served as President of the IYC in 2013.

He was also involved in engagements surrounding the establishment of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and has consistently advocated environmental protection, justice and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

His memoir, The Vain Ijaw Struggle, documents his experiences and perspectives on the Niger Delta struggle, including the environmental and socio-economic challenges confronting the Ijaw people.

Also present at the Abuja gathering was Chief Ebikabowei Ben, popularly known as Boyloaf, who described Donkemezuo as “trusted and tested” and pledged his support for the aspiration.

The meeting concluded with prayers for Donkemezuo, seeking divine guidance, protection, wisdom and strength as he begins what supporters describe as a new chapter in his service to the Ijaw people.

Other members of the delegation included Hon. Chief Raphael Kuku, Elder Edward Alagoa, a pioneer founding member of IYC Abuja, Tuedere Victor Ben, Hon. Romeo Bekeyai, and Prince Jude Tabai, the King of the Youths.

The endorsement by Dokubo-Asari adds a significant new dimension to the emerging political contest in the Yenagoa–Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency, placing the question of effective Ijaw representation and advocacy at the centre of the 2027 political conversation.

By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo

There is an old African proverb that says, "The man who plants a tree does not wait beneath it for applause." True leadership is measured not by the volume of criticism it attracts, but by the lives it touches and the communities it transforms.

In recent days, a number of commentaries have surfaced on social media seeking to diminish the person and legacy of Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri. Everyone is entitled to an opinion, and public figures inevitably attract criticism. Yet history is seldom written by opinions alone; it is written by deeds.

While some choose to speak from thousands of kilometres away, those who live in Kalabari know the difference between commentary and commitment.

For years, insecurity along the Emohua–Kalabari Road made travel a frightening experience. Kidnappings became commonplace. Lawyers became reluctant to attend court sittings in Degema. Judges stopped sitting. The roads were not safe. Law and justice took a nosedive. Businesses suffered enormous losses. Families avoided taking their loved ones home for burial. Wedding ceremonies were moved to Port Harcourt because guests feared travelling the road. Only those who could afford heavily armed police escorts dared make the journey.

Rather than wait for government intervention, Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari
chose action.

Month after month, for about four years, he has personally financed the deployment of well over one hundred security personnel from his company, Royal Fouche services limited along that corridor, providing round-the-clock protection for travellers, traders, students, workers and families. This enormous undertaking, reportedly costing well in excess of ₦150 million every month, has continued without financial support from the four local government areas or even the Rivers State government that benefit from the improved security. Kidnapping along the Kalabari axis has become history. They know they will have to contend with Amama soldiers and nobody wants their trouble.

His commitment has not been limited to the roads.

Across the waterways of the Kalabari Kingdom, his security teams maintain continuous boat patrols, helping to deter piracy and criminal activities that once threatened fishermen, traders and commuters. Communities that once lived in fear have gradually regained confidence to conduct business and social activities on the rivers.

Since assuming the traditional responsibilities of Amanyanabo of The Source, he has also taken a firm stand against illegal crude oil refining and environmental destruction within his domain, insisting that the natural heritage of the Kalabari people must be protected for future generations. On his first day as Amanyanabo he gave marching orders to illegal bunkerers, drug dealers and criminal elements to flee Elem Kalabari and it's environs or face his wrath. They took the hint and fled.

Long before becoming a traditional ruler, Da Amakiri Tubo stood in defence of his people during some of the most turbulent periods in the history of the Niger Delta. During conflicts involving Kalabari communities and neighbouring areas, he was among those who openly defended the interests of his homeland. Many within the kingdom also acknowledge his role in helping to strengthen local security during periods when criminal gangs threatened the peace of Buguma and surrounding communities.

His philosophy has always been simple: leadership demands presence, sacrifice and responsibility.

A Patriot in the Service of Nigeria

To describe Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari merely through the prism of his past is to ignore the remarkable evolution of a man whose life today is dedicated to the security, stability and development of Nigeria. He is, without doubt, one of the country's national treasures.

Contrary to the misconceptions often propagated by those who know little about his present-day work, Da Amakiri Tubo does not run a militia. Such assertions are not only inaccurate but also betray a profound ignorance of the realities on the ground.

Royal Fouche Services Limited is a Private Military Contractor (PMC), duly licensed by the Federal Government of Nigeria, with an established record of providing specialised security services in support of national security objectives.

The company's highly trained operatives, popularly known as the Amama (Apapa) Soldiers, are disciplined professionals whose commitment to duty has earned them respect in security circles. Through rigorous training, operational discipline and unwavering professionalism, they have distinguished themselves as a dependable force in support of peace and stability.

Working in collaboration with Nigeria's security agencies where deployed, Royal Fouche personnel have participated in security operations aimed at combating insurgency, terrorism, violent criminality and other threats to national peace in different parts of the country, including Anambra, Imo, Abia and Zamfara States. Their courage, discipline and sacrifice have contributed to creating safer communities and strengthening national security.

For Da Amakiri Tubo, security is more than a profession—it is a patriotic duty. His philosophy has always been that no nation can achieve meaningful development without peace and security. Through Royal Fouche Services Limited, he has demonstrated that private sector expertise, when properly regulated and professionally managed, can complement the efforts of government in protecting lives, safeguarding critical assets and preserving national stability.

The men and women of Royal Fouche are a source of pride, not only to the company but also to Nigeria. They represent a new generation of disciplined African security professionals whose service reflects courage, patriotism and an unwavering commitment to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In celebrating the life and legacy of Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, it is important to recognise this often-overlooked dimension of his public service: his unwavering commitment to the security of Nigeria and his belief that true patriotism is measured not by words, but by sacrifice in the service of one's nation.

Yet perhaps no project better captures his vision than the remarkable rebirth of Elem Kalabari.

For well over a century, the ancient cradle of Kalabari civilisation remained largely abandoned, with little modern infrastructure to reflect its historical significance. Many accepted its decline as irreversible.

Da Amakiri Tubo refused to do so.

Where others saw an abandoned settlement, he saw the birthplace of a civilisation.

Where others saw decay, he saw history waiting to be restored.

Today, roads, modern buildings, public facilities and new investments are gradually changing the landscape of Elem Kalabari. The restoration is not simply about construction; it is about preserving identity, honouring the legacy of King Amakiri and ensuring that future generations inherit a living cultural heritage rather than memories preserved only in books. Billions of naira of his personal money has been spent to transform Elem Kalabari into something that Kalabari people can be proud of. All the ancient shrines are being rebuilt. Spiritually Elem Kalabari is being revived, cultural it has also taken flight, Kalabari Ekine Sekiapu are active and vibrant in Elem Kalabari, masquerade displays are not a regular feature. There are plans for more. A master plan is in place. In about two years Elem Kalabari has become the fastest developing Kalabari community with modern amenities springing up. Commerce is also thriving. The population is growing daily. Where there was despair, people now see hope and renewal.

His commitment to young people has been equally remarkable.

Through the King Amachree Sports Academy (KASA), talented boys and girls have been given opportunities that many could never have imagined. The Academy has already produced national champions in basketball and football, demonstrating that disciplined investment in youth can compete with the very best in Nigeria. The recently announced five-year partnership with veteran sports administrator Emeka Enyadike and EEXSport is expected to open international pathways for these young athletes, ensuring that their talents receive global exposure.

After over seven years of active participation ,the KASA Boys , weeks ago won the 2026 Milo national youth basketball competition. Recently the KASA soccer team also won the Sam Okwaraji under 16 soccer contest in Port Harcourt. These are village boys taking on the whole of Nigeria and beating them.

There is more, The King Amachree University, owned by Amanyanabo Dokubo-Asari will open it's doors in Obuama soon. I leave you to do the math. The developmental explosion in that corridor is only better imagined. He could have sited KASA anywhere but Obuama, The King Amachree University could also have perhaps enjoyed better patronage in Port Harcourt but he choose to bring it home to be among his kinsmen.

Beyond education and sports, countless individuals have benefited from his personal generosity. Many students have received educational support. Families in distress have found assistance. Community projects have received funding. Religious institutions, cultural organisations and social causes have all experienced his philanthropy, often without publicity or fanfare.

Leadership will always invite scrutiny. That is healthy in any society. But criticism should also be balanced with an honest assessment of measurable contributions.

Every citizen has the constitutional right to express an opinion, whether from Nigeria or the diaspora. Equally, those who live daily with the realities on the ground have the right to judge leadership by its impact on their lives.

The Voice That Brought the Niger Delta to the World's Attention

Long before he ascended the traditional stool of Amanyanabo of The Source, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari had become one of the most recognisable voices of the Niger Delta struggle.

At a time when the environmental devastation of the oil-producing region received limited global attention, he emerged as one of the leading advocates demanding justice for the people of the Niger Delta. Through speeches, interviews and public engagements, he drew attention to decades of environmental degradation, polluted rivers, devastated farmlands, gas flaring and the socio-economic challenges confronting communities that produced the wealth upon which Nigeria's economy depended.

Whether one agreed with all his methods or not, few would dispute that Dokubo-Asari became one of the defining figures of the Niger Delta agitation. His activities placed the region firmly on both the national and international agenda, compelling governments, policymakers, the international media and civil society organisations to pay closer attention to issues affecting the people of the oil-producing communities.

The years that followed witnessed greater national engagement with the region through expanded interventions, increased dialogue, development initiatives and broader recognition of the strategic importance of the Niger Delta to Nigeria's peace and economic stability. While these developments resulted from the collective efforts of many stakeholders, the contributions of leaders such as Dokubo-Asari remain an important part of that history.

Today, his focus has evolved from agitation to institution-building.

The same passion that once drove him to advocate for justice now drives his commitment to peace, security, education, youth empowerment and cultural renaissance. Through sustained private investment, he has committed enormous resources to securing the Kalabari road corridor and waterways, restoring the historic kingdom of Elem Kalabari, promoting sports through the King Amachree Sports Academy, supporting community development and preserving the cultural heritage of his people.

His philosophy reflects a simple belief: the struggle for a people does not end when their voices are heard; it continues until their communities are secure, their children are educated, their heritage is preserved and their future is protected.

For Da Amakiri Tubo, leadership has therefore come to represent not merely resistance, but responsibility—not only speaking for the people, but investing in their future.

In the final analysis, social media posts may shape a day's conversation, but it is sustained service that shapes history.

When future generations tell the story of this era in the Kalabari Kingdom, they will not ask who wrote the harshest words. They will ask who restored forgotten communities, who invested in young people, who protected lives when fear reigned, who preserved the culture of the ancestors and who left behind institutions that outlived them.

Those questions—and their answers—are where every enduring legacy is ultimately measured.

By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo,
The Storyteller,
Tel: 08109975621
Email; nigeria360online@gmail.com

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

PORT HARCOURT — The boys' football team of King Amachree Sports Academy (KASA), Obuama, sponsored by Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, has emerged champions of the Samuel Okwaraji Under-16 Football Tournament, defeating St. Peter's Secondary School 1-0 in a thrilling final played in Port Harcourt.

The winning goal came from Michael Unity, whose clinical finish sealed a hard-fought victory and crowned KASA champions of one of Rivers State's most prestigious youth football competitions.

To reach the final, the Obuama-based academy produced an impressive performance against Perfect Brain Secondary School, recording a convincing 3-1 victory to book a place in the championship match. Throughout the tournament, the KASA boys displayed tactical discipline, teamwork and resilience, qualities that have increasingly become the hallmark of the Academy's sporting philosophy.

The Samuel Okwaraji Under-16 Football Tournament is organised in honour of the late Nigerian international, Samuel Okwaraji, who tragically collapsed and died while playing for the Super Eagles during a FIFA World Cup qualifying match at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. Today, the competition stands as a tribute to his patriotism and commitment to Nigerian football while providing a platform for discovering the next generation of football stars.

For King Amachree Sports Academy, the latest triumph is another milestone in what has become a remarkable rise in Nigerian school sports.

Only recently, the Academy's basketball team captured national attention by winning the 26th Nestlé MILO Secondary Schools Basketball Championship, defeating defending champions Father O'Connell Science College, Minna, to claim the coveted national title after years of coming agonisingly close. Having finished as first and second runners-up on four previous occasions, the victory marked a historic breakthrough for the Academy and came with a prize of ₦1 million.

Winning national honours in basketball and now emerging champions in football within the same period is no coincidence. Rather, it reflects the deliberate vision of the Academy's Proprietor, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, whose commitment to youth development through education and sports continues to transform lives.

Reacting to the football victory, the Amanyanabo expressed immense delight, describing the achievement as a validation of the substantial investments made in developing the Academy.

"This victory gladdens my heart. It justifies the enormous investment I have made in the school. These young boys have shown that with the right environment, discipline and encouragement, they can compete with the very best. Their success inspires me to do even more for the upliftment of our youths. I congratulate the players, the coaching crew and everyone who has contributed to this remarkable achievement."

Determined that these victories should become the beginning of a sustained culture of excellence rather than isolated achievements, Dokubo-Asari has taken another bold step by approving a landmark five-year strategic partnership between King Amachree Sports Academy and EEXSport Digital Company Limited.

The partnership places the future development of the Academy in the hands of one of Nigeria's most accomplished sports professionals, Emeka Enyadike, a respected sports broadcaster, football analyst, publisher, club administrator, sports marketing expert and international sports consultant.

With a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, Enyadike has become one of Africa's leading authorities on sports business and athlete development. Through EEXSport, he has successfully developed strategic partnerships in sports management, sponsorship, media, commercial development and international player pathways, earning the confidence of sports institutions across Nigeria.

Under the five-year transformation programme, EEXSport will provide technical management, sports science, educational enhancement, commercial development, sponsorship acquisition and international partnerships while introducing global best practices into every aspect of the Academy's operations.

A major feature of the agreement is the creation of an International Athlete Pathways Programme, designed to identify exceptional talents within KASA and provide them with opportunities to participate in international showcases, European training camps, scholarship programmes and professional club placements.

The Academy will also strengthen its programmes in football, basketball, athletics, swimming, volleyball, handball and tennis while integrating leadership development, digital skills and academic excellence through its "Play, Study and Progress" philosophy.

For Da Amakiri Tubo, the vision extends beyond winning trophies. His ambition is to build one of Africa's finest sports and education institutions—an academy where talented young Nigerians can receive a quality education, develop their sporting abilities and compete confidently on the global stage.

The victories in the MILO National Basketball Championship and the Samuel Okwaraji Under-16 Football Tournament suggest that this vision is already taking shape. With the EEXSport partnership now in place, King Amachree Sports Academy appears poised to move from producing champions in Nigeria to nurturing athletes capable of excelling on the international stage.

Dedaperfection:
Lois Adedamola Arowolo,
Congratulations, Your cv was received and We’re pleased to inform you that you have been shortlisted for the role of an Administrative Assistant at Avalon Outsourcing.
We would like to invite you to defend the position applied for in an Assessment session with our hiring team.

Date: Monday 8th , June, 2026.
Time: 8am (No African Time, Gate closes 08:10am)
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Car wash B/ Stop After KFC Eatery, Ogba, Lagos.

The assessment session will give us the opportunity to learn more about your qualifications, background, and potential for the role.
You’ll also receive more information about the position and our expectations.
Please come along the following
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Kindly Respond to this email to confirm your attendance.

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We are an outsourcing firm that screens and refers candidates to employers. We bridge the gap between employer and employee by linking organizations with candidates who have the potential and skill set needed for their roles.

Thank you for your interest in Avalon Outsourcing. We look forward to speaking with you.

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Probably a scam.

Call and fish for information intelligently.

As for me, I am wary of Ogba generally for interviews

The Obuama boys of KASA, the basketball team, groomed and mentored by Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri have made
history as national champions at Nigeria’s most prestigious MILO secondary school basketball championship,

King Amachree Sports Academy, (KASA) of Obuama, Rivers State, and Government Secondary School (GSS), Gboko, Benue State, emerged champions of the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively as the curtain fell on the 26th Nestlé MILO Secondary Schools Basketball Championship at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos on Thursday.

While GSS Gboko cruised to a convincing victory in the girls’ final by 68-36 points, the boys’ title was decided by one of the most dramatic finishes in the competition’s history, with King Academy Sports Academy staging a stunning comeback to edge defending champions Father O’Connell Science College, Minna, 56-54.

The championship, which attracted the best secondary school teams from across Nigeria after months of regional qualifiers, once again underlined MILO’s long-standing investment in grassroots basketball and youth development.




This is the 7th year of KASA’s participation in the youth basketball tournament.

The academy, founded by Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source, Elem Kalabari and Torusarama Piri, is set to undergo a comprehensive upgrade through a strategic partnership with EEXSport Digital Company Limited, one of Nigeria’s foremost sports management and development firms headed by veteran sports broadcaster and administrator Emeka Enyadike.

The announcement comes on the heels of KASA’s remarkable victory at the 26th Nestlé MILO Secondary Schools Basketball Championship, where the Rivers State academy stunned defending champions Father O’Connell Science College, Minna, with a dramatic 56-54 victory to claim the national title.

The triumph marked a defining moment for the academy and validated years of investment by Dokubo-Asari in youth development through education and sports. The championship attracted the best secondary school basketball teams from across Nigeria after months of regional qualifiers, with KASA emerging as the country’s new boys’ champions.

Speaking after the historic victory, Dokubo-Asari described the achievement as only the beginning of a much bigger vision.

“We are proud of what these young boys have accomplished, but our ambition goes far beyond winning national championships. Our goal is to build an institution that will consistently produce champions, scholars and leaders who can compete anywhere in the world,” he said.

To realise that vision, the academy has entered into a five-year strategic partnership with EEXSport Digital Company Limited, a sports consultancy with extensive experience in sports management, commercial development, athlete pathways and international partnerships.

At the centre of the transformation is Emeka Enyadike, one of Africa’s most accomplished sports professionals. Over a career spanning more than three decades, Enyadike has earned recognition as a sports broadcaster, football analyst, publisher, sports marketer, club administrator and development consultant.

He was among the pioneers who helped shape modern sports journalism and football administration in Nigeria through his work in television, sports publishing and football management. As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of EEXSport Digital Company Limited, he has advised sports institutions, federations and private organisations on sports business, sponsorship, media strategy, athlete development and international collaborations.

His experience and global network are expected to play a pivotal role in repositioning King Amachree Sports Academy as one of West Africa’s leading centres of sports and academic excellence.

Under the agreement, EEXSport will oversee technical management, operational development, educational enhancement, commercial strategy, sponsorship, marketing and international partnerships, while ownership and governance of the academy remain with Dokubo-Asari and the Academy’s Board.

The transformation programme is built around six strategic pillars—academic excellence, sports excellence, leadership development, international pathways, community impact and financial sustainability.

Beyond strengthening existing programmes in basketball, football, athletics, swimming, volleyball, handball and tennis, the academy will adopt a holistic “Play, Study and Progress” model that integrates quality education with leadership development, digital skills and career preparation.

A major feature of the initiative is the creation of an International Athlete Pathways Programme, designed to expose outstanding students to European training camps, international showcases, scholarships and professional club placements. Through EEXSport’s global relationships, talented athletes from Obuama will have direct access to opportunities that could launch international sporting careers.

Sports analysts believe the partnership represents one of the most significant private-sector investments in sports education in the Niger Delta in recent years, combining visionary leadership with professional sports management to create a sustainable model for athlete development.

For Dokubo-Asari, however, the project is about far more than sporting success.

He believes that investing in young people through quality education, discipline and structured sports development is one of the surest pathways to building stronger communities and a more prosperous nation.

If the vision is realised, King Amachree Sports Academy will not only be remembered as the school that conquered Nigeria’s biggest secondary school basketball championship, but also as the institution that produced generations of athletes, scholars and leaders whose impact will extend far beyond the nation’s borders.

Onegai:
Same as the woman's own, his wife will be "the problem". Everything she does angers him, he will accuse her of all sorts, any mistakes from the past will be brought, twisted and magnified to 200%, when he runs out of legit resentment he will make up stuff, both men and women will start throwing around phrases such as "I diagnosed you with Narcissism/You abused me and the kids, you're terrible, nobody likes you!" etc

Thank you very much.

brain54:
:::


Dancing skeleton.


If it was an art class I would appreciate his effort if I'm the marker.


Since it's a biology class I would do what the teacher asked and tell him to draw again.


It's good to always know when , where and how to express oneself at the appropriate time.


When it's time to be creative by all means do so and when it's time for serious business be serious.


As they say when you meet a swords man draw your sword, when you come across a poet you can recite poetry.


Pls draw again!

You sound very good but so far all requirements are met in any given assignment then creativity shouldn’t be stifled.

And you don’t have to meet a swordsman with only a sword, I think a gun would suffice nicely.

Onegai:
That age, most Judges will not agree to give him custody. Especially if one is a female child.

See, the devil has a playbook and it is the same: ain't nothing new in what he's going on. devil don enter his wife's brain and laid maggot telling her he is the cause of all her problems and it will be so much better of the marriage scatter.

If she wants to leave, she can leave. He shouldn't stop her. He shouldn't tell her to leave, she's looking for excuse to go and she will do so. Every bad decision that she can take will look sweet to her.

Stop fighting her in person and start fighting that demon spiritually. It's time for prayer.

Let your brother focus on himself and the kids for now, just commit to prayer and don't give her an excuse to fight and insult him. Let him ask God to give him the grace, because now is the time to become a Head of the House. Besides, he should be taking care of his own kids

Anyone who tells your brother to deal with her, unless you have proof she's a druggie or a criminal, most Judges will not hand over children below the age of 10 to a single man, especially if one child is female. And devil can keep lying to your sister-in-law and she will take the kids away out of spite.

Yes, she'll regret it all later. But right now is not the time to fight her, report her to her family, so they can help. Yes, she will cry and wail to them that she has been "abused" and "don't you want to see me happy?!!!". Na devil. It is the same playbook for Men and women when it wants to destroy them

Very apt and wise comment. Please can you share the signs of a married man who the devil wants to destroy as well.

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

Business mogul, renowned philanthropist, and steadfast supporter of the Kalabari Renaissance Project, Chief Dr. Emi Membere-Otaji, OON, MD, DSSRS, Dein Piribo II of Kalabari Kingdom, has extended warm felicitations to Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, the Amayanabo of Elem Kalabari, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday.

In his goodwill message, Chief Membere-Otaji described the revered monarch, fondly known as a pillar of strength, courage, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of the Kalabari people, Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole.

Speaking on behalf of himself, his family, and his organization, the respected elder statesman noted that King Dokubo-Asari has continued to play a significant role in promoting unity, peace, and development within the Kalabari nation, particularly through collaborative efforts such as the Kalabari Renaissance Project.

"On behalf of myself, my family, and my organization, I heartily congratulate His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, Amayanabo of Elem Kalabari, on his 62nd birthday. Your Majesty, you remain a pillar of support and strength not only to the Kalabari ethnic nationality but also to Rivers State and Nigeria in general.

"As you celebrate another year of God's grace, I pray that the Almighty continues to keep, guide, and protect you. May He grant you greater wisdom, sound health, and abundant resources to continue shepherding your people with vision and purpose. May your reign be long, peaceful, and impactful."

Chief Membere-Otaji concluded by wishing the monarch many more years of fruitful service to humanity and continued leadership in the pursuit of unity, progress, and prosperity for the Kalabari Kingdom.

Training Heights Nigeria has expanded its operations into Canada, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth and its commitment to equipping professionals with globally relevant skills for today’s competitive job market.

The expansion comes with the launch of a specialised Information and Cybersecurity NIST CSF Training and Certification programme designed to help newcomers and aspiring professionals build competencies that align with the needs of Canadian employers. The initiative reflects the increasing demand for cybersecurity, governance, risk and compliance professionals across Canada’s technology and business sectors.

The programme, which runs across four Saturdays in July, is structured to provide participants with practical and industry-focused knowledge in cybersecurity, information security governance, risk management and compliance frameworks. It also offers live instructor-led training, beginner-friendly learning modules, certificate of completion opportunities and one month of live project experience aimed at strengthening participants’ practical readiness for the job market.

According to the programme outline, participants will receive training on cybersecurity and IT governance, risk and compliance foundations, Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), internet security concepts, risk assessment and treatment planning, security controls, governance frameworks and practical implementation workshops. The curriculum also covers globally recognised standards and frameworks including ISO/IEC 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0, CIS Controls Version 8 and CMMC 2.0.

Speaking on the expansion, General Manager of Training Heights, Muyiwa Olubajo, described the move as a strategic step towards empowering professionals with skills that are directly relevant to the realities of the Canadian labour market.

“Canada presents enormous opportunities for skilled professionals, but many newcomers struggle because they do not fully understand the expectations of the market. Our goal is to bridge that gap by providing practical, industry-aligned training that helps participants build confidence, gain relevant knowledge and position themselves competitively,” Olubajo said.

He noted that the programme was deliberately designed to go beyond theoretical learning by exposing participants to practical workshops, governance frameworks and real-world cybersecurity scenarios.

“We are not just offering training; we are creating pathways to career readiness. Participants will gain exposure to globally recognised frameworks and practical implementation processes that employers value. We want them to leave the programme with knowledge they can immediately apply in professional environments,” he stated.

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve globally, organisations are placing greater emphasis on information security, risk management and regulatory compliance. This has created growing demand for professionals with expertise in governance, risk and compliance functions, particularly those with knowledge of internationally recognised cybersecurity frameworks.

Training Heights said the programme will also focus on career readiness by providing participants with guidance on professional positioning, interview preparation, governance and compliance documentation, and strategies for navigating employment opportunities within Canada’s technology and cybersecurity sectors.

Olubajo said the organisation’s vision extends beyond training delivery and is focused on long-term professional development and workforce empowerment.

“At Training Heights, our mission is to empower professionals to reach new heights. This expansion into Canada represents more than a new location for us; it is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the success of professionals seeking to build sustainable careers in a highly competitive environment,” he said.

He added that the company intends to continue developing programmes that respond to emerging industry needs while maintaining a strong focus on practical learning, professional growth and global standards.

The Canadian launch represents a new chapter for Training Heights as it seeks to leverage its experience in professional capacity building to support individuals looking to advance their careers in cybersecurity, information security governance, risk management and related fields. Through its latest initiative, the organisation aims to strengthen workforce readiness while helping professionals acquire skills that remain increasingly important in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakar Dokubo-Asari, Dabaye Amakiri I, Amakiri Ekpeke, Amanyanabo of the Source, Elem Kalabari, was among the over 6,000 distinguished dignitaries from across the world who witnessed the historic transition of power in the Republic of Benin, as outgoing President Patrice Talon formally handed over leadership to the newly inaugurated President Ramona Wadagni on Sunday, March 24, 2026.
The colourful and historic ceremony took place at the Palais des Congrès de Cotonou, drawing world leaders, diplomats, royals, business figures and respected traditional authorities from different parts of the globe.

For Dabaye Amakiri, the occasion went beyond diplomacy and state protocol. President Wadagni is a longtime friend of the revered Kalabari monarch, and his presence at the inauguration was a demonstration of loyalty, friendship and enduring personal ties built over many years.

Alhaji Mujahid Abubakar Dokubo-Asari is widely regarded as a major stakeholder in the Republic of Benin, a country he has maintained deep ties with for more than two decades. He is the proprietor of the King Amachree International Children’s School and the defunct King Amachree University.

king Dokubo-Asari at the Seme border with the Deputy Immigrant controller
king Dokubo-Asari at the Seme border with the Deputy Immigrant controller
The King Amachree Children’s school has for many years been an international school with students coming from Congo, Togo, Ghana and Nigeria

Over the years, he has also established significant investments in real estate, hospitality and other business interests within the country, making the Republic of Benin a true second home to him.

In keeping with the rich traditions of ancient Kalabari royalty, the Amanyanabo of the Source did not journey alone.
His distinguished entourage included eminent Kalabari chiefs and respected personalities such as Se-Alabo EMI Membere-Otaji, MD, DSSRS, OON, Chief Executive Officer of Elscon Group and Deputy National President of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture.

Also present were Se-Opu Alabo Dr. David T. Briggs, Deuin-Ala XII of Kalabari, Paramount Chief of the Ancient Deuin-Ala Chieftaincy House (1968), and Prince Tonye T. J. T. Princewill, Da OGO VI, Head of the Queen Elababene/Da OGO Group of Houses of the Kalabari Kingdom.

King Dokubo-Asari being welcomed by other kings at the event
King Dokubo-Asari being welcomed by other kings at the event
Speaking with journalists shortly after the inauguration ceremony, Dabaye Amakiri described the Republic of Benin as a place that has consistently shown him warmth, acceptance and friendship.

“The Republic of Benin has been a second home to me. I have always enjoyed the hospitality of the great people of this country, and I am here on the invitation of the President to honour him and this great nation,” he said.

Renowned for his deep respect for friendship, loyalty and longstanding relationships, Dabaye Amakiri is also known to share a close personal relationship spanning over three decades with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria.

Three days earlier, driving into the Republic of Benin via the Seme land Border, Dabaye Amakiri stopped over to exchange pleasantries with the new Deputy controller General of Immigration. Who was happy to receive the reverred monarch and graciously stepped out for a few minutes for photos with Dabaye Amakiri and his team

Nigeria’s evolving corporate and luxury interior design landscape continues to witness a quiet transformation driven by professionals whose work combines aesthetics with functionality.

Among the names increasingly associated with premium interior project execution is LOUIE DUKE, whose signature style has gained recognition across corporate offices, commercial developments, residential projects, hospitals and institutional facilities in different parts of the country.

For decades, many office environments in Nigeria were designed mainly for utility, with little emphasis on atmosphere, identity or user experience. However, a gradual shift has emerged as more organisations and private clients seek spaces that reflect professionalism, authority, comfort and sophistication. At the centre of that shift is LOUIE DUKE, whose work is distinguished by restrained elegance, clean architectural detailing and carefully balanced functionality.

Rather than relying on excessive décor or overcrowded layouts, his projects are known for controlled palettes, deliberate spatial arrangements and environments designed to encourage productivity while maintaining visual harmony. His design philosophy focuses on creating spaces that are calm, refined and purposeful.

Over the years, LOUIE DUKE has handled a wide range of interior projects involving office partitioning, furnishing and luxury finishing for major corporate organisations and high-profile private clients.

Some of the corporate projects associated with the brand include PanOcean Oil at FF Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos; Newcross Petroleum at FF Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos; ChurchBells Pharmaceuticals in Apapa, Lagos; Optiva Capital at MM2, Ikeja, Lagos; MTN Headquarters in Ikoyi, Lagos; and Nörrenberger Capital in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Other projects include Optiva Capital at the World Trade Centre in Abuja; Business Objects Ltd at FF Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos; International Energy Insurance Ltd at FF Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos; and Optiva Capital at ChurchGate Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Additional locations carrying the LOUIE DUKE signature include Newcross Petroleum on NAF Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State; Business Objects Ltd on Sapele Road, Benin; Nörrenberger Capital at FF Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos; and Optiva Capital projects located along Chevron Road, Lekki, Lagos.

The portfolio also extends to The Premiere at Southpoint Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos; Optiva Capital at Ado Bayero Mall, Kano; Optiva Capital at Peugeot Nation Towers, Lekki; Optiva Capital at Orchid Road Mall, Lekki; as well as the NIQS office at FTC, Abuja.

Beyond corporate projects, LOUIE DUKE has also executed several luxury residential interior projects across Nigeria. These include residences located at No. 5 Iru Close, Ikoyi, Lagos; No. 33 Copper Road, Ikoyi, Lagos; and No. 7 Agodogba Avenue, Parkview, Ikoyi.

Other residential and hospitality-related projects include Open Havens Center at the Redeemed Camp in Mowe, Ogun State; the Africa Re Managing Director’s residence on Etim Inyang Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos; and the Golden Flour Mills GMD’s residence in Lekki Phase 1.

The company has also worked on over 35 residential units within 1004 Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos, alongside projects at Polo Club, Ikoyi, Lagos; Lakowe Golf Resort along the Lekki-Epe Expressway; and a 22nd-floor apartment at Pearl Towers, Eko Atlantic, Lagos.

Additional projects include a residence linked to Famfa Oil in Ikoyi, Lagos, among several other private developments.

LOUIE DUKE’s work also extends into healthcare and educational institutions. Projects in that category include the University of Lagos Sickle Cell Ward in Akoka, Lagos; the Dental Library at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idiaraba, Lagos; and the Majekodumi Lecture Theatre at Lagos State University along the Ojo-Badagry axis.

The portfolio further includes OVAL LOUNGE Restaurant in Surulere, Lagos, and a residential project connected to a former NIQS President in VGC, Ikota, Lagos.

Industry observers note that one of the defining qualities of LOUIE DUKE’s projects is consistency. Whether designing executive offices, reception areas, private residences, hospitality spaces or institutional facilities, the design language remains identifiable through attention to detail, proportion, lighting, material selection and functional balance.

With more than three decades of experience spanning previous brands and design ventures before the establishment of LOUIE DUKE projects, the company has continued to build a reputation for delivering spaces that combine luxury with clarity and practical usability.

Its growing footprint across corporate and residential environments reflects increasing recognition among organisations and private clients who understand the importance of environment in shaping perception, confidence and productivity.

Rather than creating spaces that compete for attention, LOUIE DUKE’s projects are designed to create calm, identity and lasting visual impact through refined execution and timeless interior concepts.

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

The political landscape of Edo North received a significant boost as Chief Dr. Richard Lamai, popularly known as Gbukpegbu Onalo, officially picked his nomination form to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Etsako Federal Constituency.


Chief Lamai, a wealthy businessman, philanthropist, and grassroots politician, is widely regarded as a formidable entrant into the race. His decision to run has already begun to generate conversations across the constituency, with many observers describing his candidacy as a potential turning point for the people of Etsako.

Hailing from Fugar in Edo State, Lamai has built a reputation as a strong grassroots mobilizer and a consistent supporter of community-driven causes. His influence at the local level, combined with his broad exposure—having established residences in Abuja, Lagos, and London—positions him as a candidate with both local insight and global perspective.

Beyond his business success, Lamai is known for his philanthropic footprint, particularly within his home base, where his interventions have impacted livelihoods and strengthened community cohesion. He is also recognized as a devoted family man and the son of the respected Senator Lamai, a background many believe has further shaped his leadership outlook.

Political analysts note that while the race is expected to be competitive, Lamai’s entry introduces a new dynamic, especially given his established political structure and loyal grassroots following.
A local stakeholder in Fugar, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed optimism about Lamai’s candidacy:

“For years, our people have been waiting for someone who understands both the grassroots and the bigger picture. Chief Lamai has been with the people long before politics. His coming out gives many of us renewed hope that representation will finally reflect our real needs.”

Despite the growing intrigue and expected political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections, Lamai has maintained a calm and focused posture. Sources close to his campaign describe him as grounded and strategic, relying on a well-organized support base across the constituency.

As the political season gradually gathers momentum, all eyes will be on how Chief Lamai navigates the unfolding contest. For many in Etsako, however, his emergence already signals what they describe as the beginning of a new chapter.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced that the maiden international flight from Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, will take off on Saturday, May 2, 2026, bound for Kotoka International Airport, Accra, Ghana.

The development follows presidential approval for the upgrade of Victor Attah International Airport to international status, alongside investments by the administration of Governor Umo Eno to provide the technical and infrastructural facilities required for international operations.

According to the government, the inaugural flight will be operated by Ibom Air, the state-owned carrier. The aircraft is scheduled to depart Uyo for Accra on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with a return service planned for Sunday, May 3, 2026.

The state described the launch as a major milestone in its strategy to expand aviation capacity, improve international connectivity, and strengthen Akwa Ibom’s position as a preferred destination for tourism and investment.

It added that while the maiden flight marks the commencement of international operations from Uyo, the official commissioning of the new terminal building and commencement of full commercial international flight schedules will be announced later.

The government expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting approval for the airport’s international status, and to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for efforts that supported the realization of the project.

It also acknowledged the contributions of former governors of Akwa Ibom State for their pioneering roles in developing the aviation sector, while reaffirming commitment to the continued growth of the state’s aviation ecosystem for economic advancement.

Abuja and Lagos are set to host the Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition 2026, a landmark initiative positioned to spotlight local innovation, strengthen enterprise visibility, and reshape perceptions of Nigerian-made products.

Far from a conventional trade fair, the exhibition is conceived as a strategic platform to project Nigeria’s productive capacity. It will convene entrepreneurs, manufacturers, creatives, and industry leaders from across the country, presenting a diverse range of goods spanning leatherworks, fashion, beauty products, agro-based solutions, and artisanal creations—each reflecting the ingenuity and resilience of local enterprise.

A central objective of the exhibition is to amplify emerging brands that often struggle with limited exposure. By offering initiatives such as complimentary booth spaces for selected participants, the platform seeks to democratise access, enabling underrepresented businesses to gain visibility, attract partnerships, and scale their operations.

Speaking on the vision behind the initiative, convener Bola Awosika emphasised the importance of repositioning local products in both domestic and global markets.

“This exhibition is about shifting mindsets. Nigerian products are not just alternatives—they are competitive, innovative, and globally relevant. We are creating a space where local brands can be experienced, trusted, and elevated,” she said.

The exhibition will be held biannually in both Abuja and Lagos. The Abuja editions are scheduled for June 27–28 and December 12–13, 2026, while Lagos will host its editions on July 25–26 and December 19–20, 2026.

Each edition is expected to attract a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including buyers, investors, media professionals, and consumers. Organisers anticipate that engagements at the event will extend beyond immediate transactions, fostering long-term collaborations and investment opportunities.

Designed as an immersive experience, the exhibition will feature live demonstrations, interactive sessions, product storytelling, and curated networking engagements. This approach aims to deepen consumer connection with locally made products while providing businesses with meaningful engagement opportunities.

Beyond commerce, the initiative carries a broader economic message—encouraging Nigerians to prioritise domestic products and reinforcing confidence in local production. Organisers believe the long-term impact will include increased market access, strengthened brand recognition, and scalable business growth for participating enterprises.

As preparations advance, interest from business owners continues to grow, with enquiries and stand bookings already underway across all scheduled editions.

In a call to participation, Awosika highlighted the affordability and strategic value of the exhibition. Booth spaces are priced at ₦150,000 and ₦200,000, a structure designed to lower entry barriers while offering businesses a platform for visibility and growth.

She also called on corporate organisations and development institutions to support the initiative through sponsorship and partnerships, noting its potential to drive national economic impact and promote local content development.

Interested participants can obtain further details and register via the official website.

The exhibition is currently backed by institutions such as Bank of Industry, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, and Sahcol, with additional partners expected to join.

Powered by Bevents Logistics Synergy, the Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition 2026 is positioned not merely as an event, but as a sustained movement aimed at redefining Nigeria’s industrial narrative and elevating its presence in the global marketplace.

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

In a country where traditional career paths have long dominated conversations around success, a quiet but powerful shift is taking place.

Across cities like Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, young Nigerians are beginning to look inward—rediscovering the value of practical skills that not only guarantee income but also unlock global opportunities.
One such path, often overlooked but increasingly relevant, is bartending.

At the forefront of this movement is the Orovie Hospitality Institute (OHI), which is redefining how hospitality skills are perceived and taught in Nigeria. Its upcoming bartending course is more than just a training program—it represents a broader philosophy: that excellence, when properly cultivated at home, can compete anywhere in the world.

Bartending, in its modern form, is no longer just about mixing drinks. It is a refined craft—a blend of chemistry, artistry, communication, and speed. From luxury hotels in Dubai to cruise liners in the Caribbean, skilled bartenders are in high demand. What many Nigerians are now realizing is that this demand can be met without first leaving the country.

The beauty of initiatives like OHI’s lies in their structure. With interactive learning modules, hands-on mixology practice, and a strong emphasis on customer service and personal confidence, trainees are not just taught a skill—they are shaped into professionals.

This distinction matters. The global hospitality industry does not simply recruit workers; it seeks polished individuals who understand standards, presentation, and experience delivery.
Equally important is the institute’s focus on certification and career support.
We were also reliably informed that Experts in bartending and catering are coming in from Europe to coach students in May for the Abuja Module.

For many young Nigerians, the biggest barrier to international opportunities is not talent but validation. Structured programs like this bridge that gap, translating raw ability into globally recognizable competence.

There is also a deeper cultural significance to this shift. For years, “looking outward” has been the default mindset—seeking education, validation, and opportunity abroad. But a growing number of Nigerians are beginning to understand that the foundation for global success can—and should—be built locally. When institutions within the country rise to meet international standards, they change the narrative from dependency to self-sufficiency.

Bartending, in this context, becomes symbolic. It represents a broader class of vocational and creative skills that can thrive within Nigeria while connecting seamlessly to the global economy. It challenges the stigma often attached to non-traditional professions and replaces it with a narrative of dignity, expertise, and mobility.
Of course, the journey is not without its realities. Skill-based careers demand discipline, consistency, and a willingness to start from the ground up. Not every trainee will immediately land a job in a five-star hotel abroad. But what programs like this offer is something far more valuable—a structured pathway, a professional identity, and a chance to compete.

As Nigeria continues to navigate economic uncertainties, initiatives that empower individuals with exportable skills may prove to be one of the country’s most sustainable assets. They create not just workers, but ambassadors—young professionals who carry Nigerian excellence into global spaces.

And perhaps that is the real story here.
Not just a bartending course.
But a quiet revolution—one cocktail, one skill, one opportunity at a time.

Business leader and philanthropist Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu has reached another defining milestone in her expanding portfolio of public and private sector influence, following her formal installation as Matron of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Federal Capital Territory Command.

The ceremony, which took place on April 15, 2026, at the Nigeria Police Force FCT Command Headquarters in Abuja, underscored a growing institutional emphasis on strengthening collaboration between law enforcement and the communities they serve. It also highlighted an increasing recognition of the role that credible private sector figures can play in advancing civic responsibility and reinforcing trust in Nigeria’s security framework.

Achimugu’s appointment goes beyond ceremonial significance. It reflects a deliberate effort to inject strategic leadership, influence, and cross-sector experience into a critical interface that connects citizens with security agencies. At a time when public confidence and grassroots engagement remain central to effective policing, her emergence is widely regarded as both timely and purposeful.

Popularly known as “The Phoenix,” a nickname earned through her resilience and ability to navigate and overcome complex challenges, Achimugu’s journey continues to embody reinvention, strength, and vision. Her installation as PCRC Matron further consolidates a career that has consistently bridged business success with national development and social impact.

In her new capacity, she is expected to provide high-level advocacy and strategic direction aimed at deepening cooperation between communities and law enforcement authorities. Key priorities are anticipated to include fostering mutual trust, enhancing intelligence-sharing at the grassroots level, and supporting initiatives that promote transparency, accountability, and public safety.

Established in 1984, the PCRC remains a vital institutional platform designed to promote dialogue, understanding, and cooperation between the police and the public. Its mandate revolves around building confidence in law enforcement, encouraging civic participation, and facilitating community-driven approaches to security. Achimugu’s installation is seen as a reinforcement of this mandate, bringing renewed energy and a private sector perspective to a framework that relies heavily on public trust.

As Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Felak Concept Group, Achimugu leads a diversified conglomerate with interests spanning engineering, maritime, oil and gas, ICT, and philanthropy. Her leadership style, often described as bold, strategic, and impact-oriented, has earned her recognition across both economic and development spheres.

However, her influence increasingly extends beyond corporate boardrooms into areas that directly shape society. This new role situates her at the intersection of governance, security, and community development—an environment where leadership is defined not only by vision but by measurable outcomes and sustained engagement.

Her installation signals the beginning of a new phase in public service—one that emphasizes collaboration as a cornerstone of success. It is also expected to encourage broader private sector participation in national security initiatives, while inspiring citizens to take a more active role in supporting peace and stability.

In a country where trust between institutions and the public continues to evolve, Achimugu’s role carries both significant opportunity and responsibility. For “The Phoenix,” it represents yet another rise—one that not only strengthens her personal legacy but also contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s ongoing pursuit of inclusive security, social cohesion, and sustainable development.

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

Abuja-based businesswoman and philanthropist Dr. Joy Osaro-Onaiwu has announced the passing of her beloved mother, bringing a moment of solemn reflection just days after a joyful personal milestone.

Dr. Mrs. Onaiwu, who recently marked her 65th birthday in Abuja in a celebration that drew family, friends, and dignitaries, now finds herself in mourning as she pays tribute to a matriarch whose life spanned generations and whose legacy endures.

In a statement issued on behalf of the family, she formally announced the transition of her mother:

Celebration of Life
Deaconess Dora Iguahi Obaseki
17th July 1937 – 25th March 2026.

The Iyase Nohenmwen Family, the Chief Edogun (Egiewan) Family, and the Chief Festus Okankan-Obaseki Families of Benin City, with heavy hearts but deep gratitude to God for a life well lived, announced the passage unto glory of their beloved matriarch.

Described as a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and in-law, the late Deaconess Dora Iguahi Obaseki was a central figure whose life touched many across generations.

Her passing on March 25, 2026, at the age of 88, marks the end of a long and impactful journey defined by family, faith, and service.

The family, in its tribute, drew strength from the enduring memory she leaves behind, echoing the words: “To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die.”

While the grief is profound, there is also a strong sense of gratitude for a life that was full, meaningful, and deeply rooted in values that continue to guide her children and extended family.
Funeral arrangements and rites, according to the family, will be communicated at a later date.

The statement was signed by Dr. (Mrs.) Joy Osaro-Onaiwu on behalf of the family, who prayed for the peaceful repose of her mother’s soul.

In this moment of loss, the contrast is striking—a recent celebration of life now followed by the quiet weight of farewell. Yet, in both, one thread remains constant: the enduring power of family, legacy, and love.

The Onaiwu family have been dear friends of the Storyteller for over three decades and I commiserate with them.

By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo,
The Storyteller,
Tel: 08109975621

marcusverum:
The situation is a test of your leadership. You have begged and pleaded; it failed because your "friend" is using your history as a shield. He is devaluing your promotion and damaging your reputation.

Mercy without accountability is enabling. You aren't taking his living; he is throwing it away.

The Advice:

1. Cut the Cord: Your predecessor was right. Keeping him signals to everyone that personal feelings override professional standards.

2. No "Round Tables": This is an office, not a social club. Reporting him to his friends is a sign of weakness that will cost you more respect.

3. Protect Your Family: You have three children to feed. If you lose your job because of his incompetence, he won’t be the one providing for them.

A man who respected you would have worked harder to protect your image. Fire him out of duty to your firm and your household.

Heed.

Thank you, Chief.

This was very succinctly put, God bless you.