By: Divine Perezide

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has applauded the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate of Science (D.Sc) in Community Development and Empowerment on Mrs Esther Matthew Tonlagha, founder of the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation.

Mrs Tonlagha received the prestigious honour from the Federal University, Otuoke, during the institution’s maiden combined convocation ceremony held on December 8, 2025, in Otuoke, Bayelsa State. The award recognizes her outstanding contributions to grassroots development, social empowerment, and humanitarian service across communities in the Niger Delta.

In a congratulatory message, Otuaro described the award as a fitting recognition of Mrs Tonlagha’s consistent dedication to uplifting vulnerable groups through her foundation. He praised her as a compassionate philanthropist whose impact continues to resonate beyond her immediate environment.

The PAP Administrator noted that the honouree, who is married to prominent ljaw businessman and engineer, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha has demonstrated uncommon commitment to service, driven by strong moral values and faith. He expressed confidence that the recognition would further inspire her to expand her humanitarian interventions.

Otuaro also commended the management of the Federal University, Otuoke, for acknowledging Mrs Tonlagha’s sacrifices, achievements, and the transformative work of her foundation, describing the gesture as an encouragement to individuals dedicated to community development and empowerment.

By: Divine Perezide

The forthcoming Ijaw Media Conference 2025 received a strong boost with the nod of the Bolowei of Niger Delta, High Chief Tunde Smooth, last Tuesday, to serve as Father of the Day at the high-powered media dialogue.

IduwiniVoice can report that this is the second edition in the annual event organised by the appex Ijaw Flagship Publishers Organisation, Ijaw Publishers Forum is christined “Safeguarding Niger Delta’s Natural Resources for Future Generations.”

Speaking during the fruitful meeting with the great Niger Delta leader, the Chairman of the Central Working Committee, Pastor Akemotubo explained that the theme of this year’s edition hints at a call to action over the growing concern regarding the pressure exerted on the region’s land and water resources.

He stated that the forum aims to deepen public discourse, encourage fair and responsible reporting, and call on regional leaders to preserve the region’s heritage.

He observed that High Chief Smooth’s longstanding contribution to cultural advancement and his steady involvement in regional affairs made him well suited for the honour.

Chief Smooth happed on the need for cooperation among community groups, professional bodies and traditional institutions.

He praised the Forum for its efforts to use media as a veritable tool for protecting the interests of the larger Niger Delta and Ijaw nation in particular, assuring them of his total support towards the conference.

He used the medium to appealed to other stakeholders across not just the Ijaw nation but across the Niger Delta to join in initiatives that safeguard the environment and strengthen the region’s future.

By: Derick Tama

Amatu-1, Grand Iduwini Kingdom, Ekeremor LGA of Bayelsa State – November 23, 2025. The very Ancient Grand Iduwini Kingdom of the Tobokirigha people, witnessed a historic and colourful moment during the 2025 BINIKAMAI FESTIVAL as Yangaboy Erekedoumene Jonathan was formerly conferred with a Cabinet Chieftaincy title, the revered “IBEKOREWEI OF GRAND IDUWINI KINGDOM” by His Imperial Majesty, Pere Joel Ekeni Ibani JP, Ogiobo-IX, (Ogonogbolo-Kirigbolo, Bolou Igbe-Tu Igbe, Gbarara-Gbururu, Opogolo-Opogolo Keme, the Paramount Ruler and Spiritual Custodian of the Tobokirigha stool), the revered Pere of Grand Iduwini Kingdom. The festival, held from Monday 17th to Saturday 22nd of November 2025 in Amatu-1 – the ancestral and spiritual root of the (Tobokirigha people) very Ancient Grand Iduwini Kingdom – drew traditional leaders, chiefs, community leaders, and other dignitaries from across Ijaw land.

The Pere admonished Erekedoumene who’s father, the late Amadiwei of Odimodi Community, His Highness, High Chief Yangaboy Okubonananabokefie Angalabiri was the last person to hold the exalted title that, the Ibekorewei title symbolises the unifyer, cultural Preserver, and spiritual steward of Iduwini people, which carries very deep cultural, political, and spiritual responsibilities. He noted that it entrusts him with the sacred duty of safeguarding the heritage, values, unity, and collective wellbeing of all Iduwini people (who were initially known as Tobokirigha people at the beginning of time), for generations to come.

Expressing profound gratitude, High Chief Erekedoumene Jonathan Yangaboy extended appreciations to His Imperial Majesty, Ogiobo-IX, the Pere and Finite ruler of Grand Iduwini Kingdom; the Grand Iduwini Chiefs in Council; and the entire citizenry of the kingdom for the honour. He also acknowledged the Odimodi community; the family of his late father, His Highness, High Chief Yangaboy Okubonananabokefie Angalabiri; the Gbolobonoghan family of Ayakoromor; and High Chief Simion Elex Pukon, the Bebefiewei of the Grand Iduwini Kingdom.

Yangaboy further appreciated his wife, Mrs. Mirabel Onoride Yangaboy; Mr. Roland Isereke; Pastor Akposafagha Seimo; Comrade Seiyefa Ekpemupolo; Comrade Emmanuel Gesikeme Akpule; the Tech/Operations Department of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited; and friends and colleagues whose goodwill and support strengthened him throughout the process.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to service of the Kingdom, stating, “Thank you for standing with me. Blessed be the Grand Iduwini Kingdom.”