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SPEECH BY HIGH CHIEF (ENGR.) KESTIN EBIMORBOWEI PONDI, FNSE, FNIIS, MANAGING DIRECTOR, TANTITA SECURITY SERVICES NIGERIA LIMITED, ON THE OCCASION OF THE LAUNCH OF THE NEWLY BUILT EDUCATIONAL FACILITY AT THE WARRI CORRECTIONAL CENTRE ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025.
Protocol;
The Deputy Controller of Corrections, Warri Medium Security Custodial Centre, esteemed officers and men of the Nigerian Correctional Service, respected community leaders, colleagues, friends, and partners, ladies and gentlemen.
Today is a landmark date for the Nigerian Correctional Service and a day of renewed hope for inmates of the Warri Medium Security Custodial Centre, because we are gathered together here to launch the newly built 2-storey building dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and learning in our custodial facility. This building will house the National Open University Study Centre for custodial inmates here in Warri. It is also a landmark for Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited as we reach out to the high and low of society, to say no one is forgotten in our society. It is a day that reinforces our conviction at Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited that security is not only about protecting assets and territories, but also about investing in human lives, rebuilding destinies, and shaping a better future for our society.
The Nigerian Correctional Service, formerly known as the Nigerian Prisons Service, is one of the oldest institutions in Nigeria, going all the way back to 1862, one year after the Colony of Lagos was proclaimed by the British as a counterpart to the first set of four courts established for the colony. Since then, the service has continued to play a vital role in rehabilitating persons convicted or accused of committing offences against the law in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Correctional Services performs the following ten functions;
1. Receiving and Holding detainees.
2. Rehabilitating inmates. They aim to reform prisoners through counseling, education, and job training programs.
3. Ensuring the welfare of inmates.
4. Maintaining security.
5. Supervising inmates.
6. Reintegrating ex-inmates into society.
7. Documenting and Keeping records of inmates
8. Permitting visitation.
9. Transporting inmates.
10. Releasing qualified inmates.
Of all these, perhaps the most important is the rehabilitation of inmates and that is where education plays a vital role.
On August 15, 2019, the Federal Government of Nigeria took a bold step in reforming our justice system by transforming the Nigerian Prisons into Correctional Centres. This was not just a change of name, but a deliberate shift in philosophy; from punishment to rehabilitation, from stigma to dignity, from exclusion to reintegration.
In alignment with this national vision, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has chosen to support the Warri Correctional Centre with this newly constructed, 2-storey educational facility. This modern building; comprising eight fully furnished classrooms, an administrative office, water-system toilets, a borehole supply system, and a solar-powered inverter system; represents more than an investment in bricks and mortar. It represents opportunity. It represents hope. And it represents the belief that every person, regardless of their past conduct, can be transformed through education. It represents a second chance.
This project is also consistent with Tantita’s wider commitment to community development across Nigeria. Only recently, Tantita had the honour of renovating the historic Sultan Bello Mosque in Kaduna; a landmark of faith and culture; which was formally commissioned by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, last week on Friday 19th September. That project, like this one, reflects our philosophy that true security is built not only through vigilance alone, but also through investment in people, communities, and the values that bind us together.
Education is the most powerful tool of rehabilitation. It opens minds, reforms character, and creates pathways for reintegration into society. By God’s grace, this facility will soon host the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Study Centre, giving both inmates and staff access to a qualitative path to academic advancement. This milestone will not only transform individuals but will also strengthen our collective security as a nation, because an educated mind is more inclined to productivity.
At this point, let me sincerely appreciate the Nigerian Correctional Service, both here in Warri and at the Headquarters in Abuja, for their cooperation and encouragement throughout this journey. I also extend my gratitude to the Deputy Controller of Corrections, DCC Richard Egbede, for his kind words and steadfast commitment to making this project a reality for the correctional service.
For us at Tantita, this project may be corporate social responsibility, but it is not just Corporate Social Responsibility. It is a moral duty, a social investment, and a testament to our unwavering belief that Nigeria can only be truly secure when her people are empowered, rehabilitated, and given a chance to thrive.
I dedicate this facility to the future of the staff and inmates who will study here, to their families who long for their reintegration or elevation, and to the larger society that will benefit from their transformation.
May this building serve as a beacon of hope, a centre of learning, and a symbol of second chances.
On behalf of the management and staff of Tantita. I thank you all for joining us in this historic moment. Together, let us continue to build a safer, stronger, and more compassionate Nigeria.
God bless the Nigerian Correctional Service.
God bless the good people of Warri.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Photo Credit: GbaramatuVoiceTV
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IPF Expands Leadership Base with Capt. Braboke’s Induction into College of Patrons
By Favour Bibaikefie
The (IPF) has strengthened its institutional network with the induction of respected Maritime Don, Capt. Letthemsay Braboke Inaibagha, as a patron, in a move aimed at deepening mentorship and strategic guidance within the body.
The induction took place during a high-level visit by IPF executives to Inaibagha’s residence in Ogulagha, headquarters of the Ogulagha Kingdom, where discussions centred on leadership, media responsibility, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
Led by IPF President, Ozobo Austin, the delegation said the decision to bring Inaibagha into the forum’s patron cadre was driven by the need to institutionalise experience and reinforce value-driven leadership within the Ijaw media space.
According to the forum, the new patron’s track record in enterprise, youth engagement, and community development aligns with IPF’s broader objective of shaping a responsible and impact-oriented media culture.
Ozobo noted that the induction was not merely honorary but strategic, emphasizing that individuals with proven records of mentorship and community service are critical to guiding the next generation of media professionals in the region.
He said, “We are deliberate about building a structure that allows younger professionals to tap into tested experience. His contributions over the years make him a natural fit for this role.”
The IPF leadership also acknowledged Inaibagha’s longstanding, though largely private, interventions across communities, describing his influence as one that has quietly driven positive change, particularly among youths.
Responding, Inaibagha accepted the role with a call for responsible journalism and constructive engagement in advancing the Niger Delta cause. He urged practitioners to prioritise intellect and peaceful advocacy in addressing regional challenges.
“IPF should always maintain a peaceful, yet firm disposition. Your appearance may be calm, but your pen can achieve great things,” he advised.
Observers note that the induction signals IPF’s evolving focus on consolidating leadership capacity and expanding its network of seasoned patrons, as the forum continues to position itself as a key voice in shaping narratives around development, governance, and resource equity in the Niger Delta and for the Ijaw people.
IduwiniVoice Community
Oporoza Agog as Gbaramatu Kingdom Flags Off 2026 Amaseikumor Festival with Cultural Grandeur
By Favour Bibaikefie
The people of ancient Amaseikumor. Festival has officially commenced in Gbaramatu Kingdom, ushering in a week-long celebration of spirituality, culture, and communal unity.
The annual festival, which spans seven days, is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Ijaw people. “Amaseikumor,” translated as “no evil should befall the community,” reflects the central theme of divine protection, thanksgiving, and ancestral reverence.
Activities for Day One, known as Ibolomoboere Day, were successfully held yesterday, drawing indigenes, cultural enthusiasts and tourists, and visitors from across the Niger Delta. The opening ceremonies featured traditional rites, prayers, and symbolic performances aimed at honouring ancestors and expressing gratitude to deities for bountiful harvests and communal peace.
The festival also serves as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Gbaramatu Kingdom, with displays of traditional music, dances, and age-long customs passed down through generations.
Organisers have indicated that more spiritually significant and culturally vibrant events are still ahead. Among the highlights are the anticipated Gbaraun-Egbesu Day, dedicated to the revered Egbesu deity, and the grand finale, which will feature the colourful Amaseikumor masquerade exhibition—often regarded as the climax of the festival.
Leaders of the Community noted that beyond its cultural significance, the festival reinforces unity, promotes peace, and strengthens identity among the people, while also attracting tourism and fostering cultural appreciation.
As festivities continue, expectations remain high for a successful celebration that will further project Gbaramatu Kingdom as a custodian of enduring cultural values in the Niger Delta.
By: Derick Peretengboro
The Odimodi Youth body has formally witnessed a change in leadership following the handover by the outgoing President, Comrade Laide Cyril Laide, to the newly elected President, Comrade Austin Benikurukuru.
Laide, who assumed office in January 2023 after taking over from Tarede Ebiarede, completed a two-year tenure marked by active youth engagement and organizational stewardship. The transition took place during the final Odimodi Youth Congress presided over by the outgoing Executive Council.
The congress was held on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, at Eluwe House, Odimodi, where formal documents and responsibilities were handed over to the new leadership team.
The congress was held on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, at Eluwe House, Odimodi, where formal documents and responsibilities were handed over to the new leadership team.
Sources close to the incoming President disclosed that an enlarged inauguration ceremony for the new Executive Council has been scheduled for January 10, 2026. The event is expected to bring together community leaders, youth stakeholders, and invited guests to formally usher in the new administration.
The peaceful handover has been widely described by observers as a positive signal of unity, democratic maturity, and continuity within the Odimodi youth structure.