Press Release
IJAW NATIONAL CONGRESS (WORLDWIDE)
PRESS STATEMENT
PROPOSED SCHOOL OF NURSING FOR PATANI AND POLYTECHNIC IN BOMADI: PRESIDENT TINUBU, LET THIS WORK, PLEASE
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) is aware of two critical bills currently before the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These bills, sponsored by Senator Joel Onowakpo, who represents Delta South Senatorial District, seek to establish a School of Nursing in Patani (Patani Local Government Area) and a Polytechnic in Bomadi (Bomadi Local Government Area)—both within Ijaw- areas in0 Delta State. The Ijaw people, both in Delta State and across the globe, are thrilled at the prospects of having such higher institutions finally located in their long-neglected communities.
A brief historical perspective is necessary here. For decades, the Ijaw people of Delta State have consistently advocated for the establishment of higher institutions in their areas. Unfortunately, these appeals have fallen on deaf ears, even though Delta State boasts the highest number of higher institutions in Nigeria. Nearly all other ethnic groups within the state have benefited from these institutions, with some ethnic nationalities enjoying the presence of multiple federal and state institutions, including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, nursing schools, and specialized medical schools. In contrast, the Ijaw areas have been systematically overlooked.
Regrettably, this marginalization persisted despite the fact that Ijaw representatives have served in parliament for extended periods—some for over two decades. This makes Senator Joel Onowakpo’s efforts even more commendable, as he has demonstrated rare leadership and inclusiveness in championing the cause of the Ijaw people To Senator Onowakpo, the Ijaw National Congress says: The reward for hard work is more work.
Against this backdrop, the Ijaw National Congress makes an earnest appeal to the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to ensure these bills are expedited through the legislative process. The significance of these bills cannot be overstated, as they directly address the long-standing educational aspirations of the Ijaw people of Delta State.
Furthermore, we humbly call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to leverage his presidential influence to support the swift passage of these bills through the National Assembly and to give his assent promptly once they are passed. At this critical juncture in history, these projects represent the most meaningful way to address the developmental yearnings of the Delta Ijaws.
Mr. President, we trust in your leadership and commitment to equity and inclusivity. This is a golden opportunity to bring lasting change to a community that has endured decades of neglect.
SIGNED:
Prof. Benjamin O.g Okaba,
President,
Ijaw National Congress (Worldwide)
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has called on the people of the Niger Delta to reflect on the essence of Easter and show love to one another.
In his Easter message, on Sunday, Otuaro urged stakeholders of the region- men, women, youths and all ex-agitators- to imbibe the spirit of peace, unity, and sacrifice embodied by the Lord Jesus Christ.
He noted that the Easter season was a period to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as God’s precious gift of peace to the world and reconciliation to Himself.
Otuaro urged the people of the region to use the season to deeply reflect on the virtues of the Lord and walk in them to ensure peace, stability and harmony in the Niger Delta.
He stressed that Easter called for a re-commitment to the cherished values of peace, forgiveness, kindness and service.
The PAP boss expressed the unwavering commitment of his leadership to the implementation of the programme’s mandate for sustainable peace, security, stability and development of the region.
He also enjoined stakeholders of the Niger Delta to continue to support President Bola Tinubu and his administration’s noble reforms aimed at achieving economic recovery and shared prosperity for all.
Otuaro added, “I will like to heartily greet all stakeholders of the Niger Delta on this joyous occasion of the commemoration of Easter. It is a time to reflect on its essence and the values of love, peace, forgiveness and sacrifice exemplified by the Lord Jesus Christ.
“I urge all youths, ex-agitators, men, and women to imbibe the virtues embedded in Jesus Christ and the significance of His death and resurrection as God’s perfect gift for redemption and reconciliation of mankind.
“Let us love one another, promote unity and peace in the interest of the Niger Delta. I felicitate all stakeholders and wish you a Happy Easter celebration.”
Signed:
Mr Igoniko Oduma,
Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme.
20/04/2025
Press Release
Press Release: IPF felicitates Tompolo at 54th, commends him for peace, security, development in N’Delta
12/04/2025
Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF) has extended warm congratulations to High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, on the occasion of his 54th birth anniversary.
The apex Ijaw media council said as the chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Tompolo has made significant contributions to boost oil output and the security sector in Nigeria. The forum celebrated his achievements and impact, wishing him continued success and prosperity in the years to come.
The group said, “Under Tompolo’s leadership, Tantita Security Services has provided employment opportunities for many youths in the Niger Delta region, contributing to the reduction of youth restiveness and promoting economic growth in the country. In addition, the company has also been a key player in ensuring the safety and security of oil installations and pipelines, protecting the nation’s resources and sources of revenue”.
Furthermore, the IPF commends Tompolo for his commitment to peace and development in the Niger Delta region. He has played a vital role in the amnesty program, which has successfully rehabilitated and reintegrated thousands of ex-agitators into society.
They emphasised, “This has significantly contributed to the restoration of peace and stability in the region, making it conducive for business and investment.
Tompolo’s philanthropic efforts also deserve recognition as he has consistently given back to his society through various charitable initiatives. From building schools and hospitals to providing scholarships for students, he has positively impacted the lives of many people in the Niger Delta and beyond.
“As we celebrate Tompolo’s birthday, the IPF strongly urges him to continue his efforts in promoting peace, security, and development in the Niger Delta region. We also appeal to the government to recognize and support the contributions of individuals like Tompolo, who have played a significant role in the development of the region.
“Finally, we join in congratulating Tompolo on this milestone and pray that he continues to be a source of inspiration to many. We wish him good health, happiness, and success in all his endeavors. Happy 54th birthday, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo!”, the statement added.
Press Release
PRESS RELEASE: You Are Exceptional Leader, Beacon Of Hope To Our People, PAP Boss Celebrates Tompolo On Birthday
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has congratulated the chairman of TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, on the occasion of his 54th birthday.
Otuaro described Tompolo as a humble, selfless and exceptional leader whose entire life had been dedicated to the defence, emancipation and the development of the Ijaw land and indeed the Niger Delta region.
He noted that as a foremost freedom fighter, Tompolo’s sacrifices and contributions to the socio-economic advancement and political growth of the Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta region are not only monumental but tremendous and unquantifiable.
He described the Izon-Ebi Dou Keme of Ijaw nation as a philanthropist, pillar of support for community development and a beacon of hope to many youths.
He stressed that Tompolo has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the peace, progress, unity and stability of the Niger Delta.
The PAP helmsman expressed appreciation to Tompolo for his significant contributions to national development through the efficient operations of TANTITA in safeguarding strategic crude oil pipelines, resulting in unprecedented increases in oil revenues for the shared prosperity of the country.
He further noted that Tompolo, through his security firm, has empowered over 40,000 Niger Delta youths by engaging them meaningfully, while also transforming the lives of several others with scholarships for their education and other viable ventures for a better future.
Otuaro said the TANTITA boss is also an inspiration to many with his strong and unapologetic belief in Ijaw tradition and cultural heritage, noting that it has continued to strengthen his spiritual focus and wellbeing.
He encouraged him to remain steadfast in his selfless service to Ijaw land, the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole, while also upholding his convictions and philanthropic activities for the society and humanity.
Otuaro wished Tompolo well on the auspicious occasion of his birthday, and prayed to God to give him the enablement to achieve more goals and further accomplishments.
Signed:
Mr Igoniko Oduma
Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme.
12/04/2025