Breaking:
Delta State Endorses $27.2bn Escravos Seaport Project.
By Favour Bibaikefie
Warri, Delta State: The $27.29 billion Escravos Deep Seaport Industrial Complex Project in Warri has received a significant boost following the revalidation by the Delta State Government. This development, announced by the lead promoter, Mercury Maritime Concession Company (MMCC), marks a crucial milestone in the project’s journey.
During a press briefing in Apapa, Lagos, the Chairman of MMCC, Rear Admiral Okoja, shared the latest updates. He revealed that, alongside the state government’s revalidation, the company has been assured by the Federal Government that the pending revalidation of the earlier provisional approval is expected soon.
Earlier in June, MMCC had raised concerns about potential investment losses amounting to $27.29 billion due to delays in obtaining final approvals from both state and federal authorities. The delay threatened the involvement of EDIB International of Hong Kong, which had committed to financing the project.
The state government’s reaffirmation, communicated earlier this week, includes the provision of 31,000 hectares of land in Gbaramatu Island/Omadino, Warri South-West Local Government Area. This land is pivotal for the project’s commencement and eventual success.
Okoja noted the project’s extensive scope, which spans multiple ministries, including Solid Minerals, Works, Marine and Blue Economy, and Power. Addressing concerns raised by the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) regarding potential monopolies and documentation, Okoja emphasized that MMCC is engaging at governmental and ministerial levels, backed by substantial maritime expertise.
Ausbet Udebu, a director at MMCC, detailed the project’s components, highlighting the development of a deep seaport, inland ports across seven states, and an intermodal transport system for cargo evacuation. The infrastructure will include 45 kilometers of coastal roads, a 150-kilometer rail line connecting the Warri-Ajaokuta-Itape railway, and a 600-kilometer marine network.
Furthermore, the project will feature significant power infrastructure, with a 2,000-megawatt independent power project, complemented by two 500-megawatt installations at inland ports and five 250-megawatt units at additional inland ports.
This revalidation marks a critical step towards the realization of the Escravos Deep Seaport Industrial Complex Project, promising significant economic benefits and infrastructural advancements for Delta State and beyond.
Breaking:
Tompolo Denies Issuing 21-Day Ultimatum to FG Over Nnamdi Kanu
– Reaffirms Support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda
By: IduwiniVoice News Desk Warri, Nigeria – October 26, 2025
High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, has strongly refuted viral reports circulating across social media platforms alleging that he issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government demanding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement signed by his media aide, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Ph.D, Tompolo distanced himself from the publication, describing it as a fabrication by detractors bent on tarnishing his hard-earned reputation.
We wish to state unequivocally that Tompolo did not author the said publication. He has nothing to do with the issue of Nnamdi Kanu.
This is clearly the handiwork of his enemies, seeking to discredit him because of his stand against illegal crude oil activities in the Niger Delta,” the statement read.
The Ijaw leader, through his spokesperson, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the Federal Government’s efforts to sanitize the oil-rich Niger Delta region and curb the menace of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
“Tompolo will not relent in carrying out his duties to completely eradicate illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta,” the statement added.
Dr. Bebenimibo further clarified that Tompolo remains a loyal supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that the ex-militant leader’s current engagements are focused solely on national security and economic stability.
Dr. Bebenimibo further clarified that Tompolo remains a loyal supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising that the ex-agitators’ leader’s current engagements are focused solely on national security and economic stability.
“We wish to reassure the Federal Government that Tompolo stands firmly with the President and fully supports the Renewed Hope Agenda. He also reaffirms his endorsement of Mr. President for a second term and continues to work toward its realization,” the statement concluded.
The clarification comes amid a flurry of misinformation on social media space, linking prominent Niger Delta figures to politically charge statements. Tantita Security Services, under Tompolo’s leadership, continues to receive commendation for its role in supporting the government’s efforts to combat oil theft and restore confidence in Nigeria’s Petroleum sector.
#IduwiniVoice #Tompolo ##NigerDelta #RenewedHopeAgenda #TantitaSecurity
Breaking:
Family Announces Plans for Burial of Late Arise TV Staff Sommie Maduagwu
By: Favour Bibaikefie
The Maduagwu family Announces with deep grief, the funeral arrangements for their beloved daughter, Barr. Somtochukwu Christabelle Maduagwu, whose sad event occurred last week in Abuja.
Described by many as an astute and devoted media practitioner to AriseTV and cherished daughter of the Maduagwu family, Barr. Sommie will be remembered for her brilliance, passion, and dedication to justice and human. Her passing left many Nigerian in sorrow last week, and created a deep void in the hearts of her family, friends, and associates.
According to a statement released by the family, a Service of Songs will be held on Wednesday, 15th October 2025, at Corpus Christi Cathedral, No. 1 Kaduna Street, Port Harcourt, commencing at 5:00 PM.
The Burial Service is scheduled for Saturday, 18th October 2025, at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Agulu, Anambra State, beginning at 11:00 AM.
Interment will follow immediately after the Mass at her father (Engr. Ifeanyi Maduagwu’s) compound, Isiamaigbo Village, Anambra State.
The family requests that all attendees kindly observe the dress code: All Black, in solemn honour of their beloved Sommie.
As the Maduagwu family mourns this painful loss, they invite friends, colleagues, and well-wishers to join them in sharing the final glimse of the life and legacy of a young woman whose light touched many lives and whose memory will forever remain in their hearts.
Breaking:
Drama: Edo Governor Cannot Readout Budget Figures, Nigerians React
By Divine Perezide
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholor, has come under public scrutiny following a viral video showing him grappling with the presentation of the state’s 2025 Appropriation Bill. The footage, widely circulated on social media, captures the governor visibly struggling to articulate the budget figures during the session, sparking a flood of reactions online.
One social media user did not hold back, stating, “No wonder he was running away from all TV stations during the campaigns.” Another user shared a mix of criticism and sarcasm, remarking, “The Edo state Governor is highly cerebral and he has shown capacity… The Governor is sweating under AC😂😂😂😂.”
The incident has reignited debates about the preparedness of public office holders, with one commenter questioning, “But people get mind sha… He knew this was going to be part of his duties. Yet, never took any self-improvement classes?”
For some, the governor’s struggles serve as a lesson for aspiring politicians. “Well, aspiring politicians in Burutu should pick the lessons. It’s not enough to win elections. There’re basic duties you must perform when you get into office,” noted one user.
Others attributed the situation to broader political failings. A commenter took aim at the ruling party, writing, “All thanks to Oshobaba and the mediocrity-loving APC.”
The video has drawn attention to the need for effective communication and public engagement skills among leaders. Critics argue that avoiding media appearances during campaigns, as suggested by some commenters, may have contributed to the governor’s unpreparedness for such public duties.
Governor Okpebholor has yet to officially address the reactions, but the episode has sparked broader conversations about leadership, accountability, and the responsibilities of public office holders in Nigeria.
