Celebration
DIRI VOWS TO LEAVE A BETTER BAYELSA AT FATHER’S MEMORIAL SERVICE
Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has reiterated his commitment to leaving a better Bayelsa and society at large than he met. The governor made this promise during a memorial service in honour of his late father, Pa Abraham Joseph Michael Diri, at the St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Sampou, in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Daniel Alabrah, stated that Governor Diri spoke fondly of his late father, describing him as a retired Headmaster and epitome of humility who passed away on February 12, 2023, at the age of 88. Alabrah added that the governor acknowledged his father’s positive influence on his life, saying he inculcated positive virtues in him and his siblings. “He equally stated that he would leave a better society for his children than what his father left, and that his children would also leave a better society for their children,” Daniel Alabrah said.
Governor Diri also urged Bayelsans, particularly politicians, to love one another and avoid acts capable of destabilising the state. He advised the youths not to be deceived into believing that joining a cult would make them achieve their aspirations. “We went to school in mud houses but today we are handing over something better to our children. Our children will hand over something better to their own children. Society will continue to grow but it does not grow one day,” Governor Diri said.
Daniel Alabrah stated that the governor further emphasized the importance of peace and unity in achieving development. “If there is no peace, there will be no development. Our people should have love for one another. If the state is in constant division, you will drive away everybody. Even the citizens will not want to come home again,” Governor Diri added. Alabrah noted that the governor appreciated the church, political associates, and everyone who attended the service.
The memorial service featured thanksgiving and song rendition by the late Diri’s children led by the governor, prayers, as well as praise and worship sessions. Highlight of the event was the laying of wreath at the tomb of Pa Diri. Present at the service were prominent dignitaries, including members of the House of Representatives and the Bayelsa State House of Assembly. Alabrah stated that the governor was also joined by top government functionaries, the clergy, and traditional rulers.
Celebration
GOVERNOR OBOREVWORI HAILS OBI OF OWA KINGDOM AT 88, PRAISES MONARCH’S WISDOM AND LEADERSHIP
Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Obi of Owa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, OON, as the revered traditional ruler marks his 88th birth anniversary. Oborevwori in a congratulatory message issued in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described the monarch as one of Delta State’s most respected and accomplished traditional rulers who has contributed immensely to the growth of his kingdom and the state at large.
Governor Oborevwori noted that over the years, Obi Efeizomor II has continued to demonstrate wisdom, commitment and exemplary leadership in guiding the Owa Kingdom while also contributing meaningfully to the broader development of Delta State. He commended the monarch for preserving the rich cultural heritage and tradition of the Owa people, describing him as a revered father figure and a source of inspiration to many within and beyond the kingdom.
The governor also acknowledged the visible transformation witnessed in the Owa Kingdom during the monarch’s reign, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and human capital development, which he said had strengthened the socio-economic progress of the community. Oborevwori further praised the royal father for his service as the immediate past Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, noting that his tenure was marked by wisdom, humility and a strong commitment to peace and unity among traditional institutions across the state.
“On behalf of my family, the government and the good people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, OON, Obi of Owa Kingdom, on the joyful occasion of his 88th birth anniversary,” the governor said. He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the monarch, wishing him many more years of good health, strength and wisdom as he continues to serve the Owa Kingdom, Delta State and humanity at large.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended a powerful and respectful birthday message to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, celebrating his 89th birthday and recognising the elder statesman’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, governance and national development. The message, delivered from Abuja, underscores Tinubu’s admiration for Obasanjo’s enduring influence on the country’s political landscape.
In his tribute released on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Tinubu highlighted Obasanjo’s long years of public service from his leadership as a military ruler in the 1970s to his two-term civilian presidency from 1999 to 2007 and described him as a patriotic and tireless servant of Nigeria. He thanked Obasanjo for his role in deepening democratic institutions, promoting peace, and mentoring successive generations of Nigerian leaders.
Tinubu also used the occasion to pray for Obasanjo’s continued health, wisdom, and strength, urging Nigerians to draw inspiration from his resilience and commitment to national unity. The president’s message reaffirmed the importance of respecting elder statesmen and valuing their experiences in shaping public discourse.
Political analysts say the public recognition signals continued respect across political divides and reinforces the idea that national service transcends party affiliations. It also comes amid ongoing debates about leadership, generational change and national cohesion in Nigeria as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Celebration
DELTA GOVERNOR HAILS BUSINESS TYCOON MATT OFFEH AT 60, LAUDS HIS LEGACY OF ENTERPRISE AND PHILANTHROPY
Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm felicitations to renowned businessman and philanthropist, High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, Eni 1 of Irri Kingdom, as he marks his 60th birth anniversary, describing him as a towering figure in enterprise, community development and regional advancement.
In a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor praised the Irri-Isoko-born entrepreneur for his remarkable contributions to the economic growth and social transformation of the Niger Delta, particularly the Isoko nation.
Governor Oborevwori said High Chief Offeh’s diamond jubilee is not only a celebration of a worthy life, but a tribute to a life defined by vision, resilience, industry and an unwavering commitment to community upliftment.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate my dear brother and friend, High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, on the auspicious occasion of his 60th birthday,” he said. “This diamond jubilee is a milestone that reflects a legacy of hard work, integrity and selfless service.”
The Governor commended the celebrant’s sterling leadership as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lesoda Oil & Gas Company Limited, Lesoda Farms and Peoples Concept Nigeria Limited, noting that through these thriving enterprises, Offeh has not only built successful businesses but also created employment opportunities and stimulated economic activities across the region.
He described High Chief Offeh as a quintessential Isoko son whose investments and philanthropic interventions have strengthened local capacity, empowered youths, supported families and promoted sustainable development within host communities.
“Your commitment to the unity, peace and progress of the Isoko ethnic nationality remains exemplary. You have consistently deployed your resources, influence and experience toward fostering harmony and driving meaningful development in the Niger Delta. For this, we owe you an enduring debt of gratitude,” Oborevwori added.
According to the Governor, High Chief Offeh represents the finest ideals of enterprise blended with compassion, stressing that his life story continues to inspire a new generation of Niger Delta entrepreneurs to pursue excellence while firmly committed to the welfare of the communities.
“As you celebrate this significant milestone, it is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more years in good health, wisdom and strength to continue your invaluable service to Delta State, the Niger Delta and humanity at large,” the statement concluded.