Headlines

Idoma Stakeholders Devise Strategies to Combat Insecurity and Foster Regional Growth at USA Convention

Published

12 months ago

August 10, 2024

The Idoma Association USA, a prominent socio-cultural organization of Idoma natives residing in the United States, recently convened for its 28th annual convention in New Jersey. The event, held from August 1 to August 3, 2024, centered on the theme, “The Effect of Security on the Economic Development of Idomaland,” drawing a large gathering of Idoma sons and daughters.

Throughout the three-day convention, participants underscored the importance of promoting economic and educational advancement within Idoma communities in Nigeria, while also emphasizing unity among Idoma people in the United States.

Dr. Edwin Ochai, President of the association, delivered a poignant welcome address in which he lamented the persistent violence in parts of Idomaland, particularly in areas like Apa and Agatu. He described the situation as “deeply troubling,” stating, “These senseless acts of violence not only claim precious lives but also sow fear and instability among our people.

“We cannot ignore the toll that insecurity takes on our communities, and it is imperative that we address this issue with the urgency and seriousness it demands. Without security, our dreams of economic prosperity and social progress remain out of reach. A secure environment is the foundation upon which we can build a thriving economy. Investors, both local and foreign, are deterred by the threat of violence and instability. Businesses cannot flourish in an environment where safety is not guaranteed. It is clear that if we are to attract investment, create jobs, and drive economic growth, we must first ensure the safety of our people and property.”

Dr. Ochai also expressed concern over the increasing involvement of Idoma youths in cultism and other social vices, emphasizing, “We cannot afford to lose our young generation to these destructive paths. It is our responsibility to engage them meaningfully, providing them with opportunities for education, employment, and personal growth. By investing in our youth, we are investing in the future of Idomaland. Let us create programs and initiatives that will empower our young people, steering them away from negative influences and towards a brighter, more productive future.”

He further announced that a comprehensive blueprint outlining strategies to tackle insecurity and promote economic development in Idomaland would soon be available for implementation.

HRM Agabaidu Elaigwu John Odogbo (Och’Idoma V) joined the convention virtually, commending the association for upholding Idoma cultural identity on an international stage. He remarked, “I commend the consistency and tenacity of the group in organizing and hosting the Idoma Annual Convention in the United States of America for a record of 28 unbroken years. This not only shows your love and appreciation for your cultural heritage but also highlights the reason you all keep excelling in your chosen careers.”

The royal father lamented the ongoing attacks on the Idoma kingdom by criminal elements, which have resulted in numerous casualties and displaced thousands. He acknowledged the association’s financial support for the victims, noting, “This relief went a long way in alleviating the pains of affected people across almost all local government areas in Idoma kingdom. Though you have left home, the home has not left you.”

Addressing the theme of the event, Och’Idoma stressed the detrimental impact of insecurity on the region, stating, “Insecurity discourages investment as investors seek a stable environment for their businesses. Without investment, economic growth is stifled. Security threats disrupt agricultural activities, leading to food shortages and economic losses for farmers. Insecurity hinders the construction and maintenance of essential infrastructure like roads, bridges, hospitals, and also affects markets, trade, and commerce.”

He urged the community to explore pathways to peace and security, emphasizing, “It is incumbent upon us to explore possible pathways to peace and security to foster a conducive environment for growth and progress. Through enhanced collaboration with law enforcement agencies, community empowerment initiatives, and proactive measures, we can reclaim the promise of a safe and thriving Idoma land. I insist and must continue to emphasize that our strength and growth lie in unity. In resilience and determination lies the power to effect positive change. Let us heed the call to action. Let us stand in the guidance of our heritage, and let us strive together to build a kingdom where security and prosperity go hand in hand.”

In a video message, Dr. Sam Odeh, the Deputy Governor of Benue State, who could not attend the convention due to ongoing protests in Nigeria, reassured the audience that the state government, led by Rev. Fr. Hycainth Alia, has not neglected the Benue South Senatorial District. Addressing concerns about project distribution, Odeh affirmed that several projects are planned for the district, which will soon be initiated.

Odeh highlighted the state’s focus on infrastructure, stating, “We understand that infrastructure is critical to both security and economic growth. The state government has therefore embarked on several road construction and rehabilitation projects to improve access and connectivity within our communities.”

He also noted the establishment of a Bureau for Homeland Security by the Benue State government to address insecurity, adding, “This specialized unit will work alongside the existing security agencies to provide a robust security framework, ensuring that our communities are rid of herders’ attacks and other criminal practices so that economic activities can flourish without fear of disruption.”

Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro, represented by Mr. Sylvanus Edache Ocheme, lauded the association for its contributions to the socioeconomic development of Idomaland. He urged the group to maintain and strengthen the bonds that have united them for years, describing the convention as a testament to the enduring spirit, unity, and resilience of the Idoma people, both at home and in the diaspora.

Lady Blessing Onuh, representing Otukpo-Ohimini Federal Constituency, expressed gratitude to Idomas in the diaspora for their unwavering connection to their homeland. She revealed that her office had established a diaspora help desk to facilitate communication and collaboration with Idoma sons and daughters abroad.

Rt. Hon. Anthony Agom, a member of the Benue State House of Assembly representing Okpokwu, praised the association’s unity and dedication, urging those in Nigeria to emulate the spirit of determination exhibited by the Idoma diaspora. “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Idoma Association USA for their exemplary unity of purpose in supporting the Idoma nation. Their commitment is commendable and sets a standard for all of us,” he said.

The convention concluded with the presentation of recognition awards to twelve association members for their dedicated service over the past 28 years. Among the awardees was Engr. Cletus Agbo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Idoma Association USA, who appealed to the Benue State government and other stakeholders to emulate the collaborative spirit of the association. He stressed the importance of collective commitment to building a stronger nation, transcending religious, tribal, and political divides.

Headlines

Benue IDPs block highway, demand return to ancestral homes

Published

1 week ago

July 30, 2025

Matthew Eloyi

Vehicular movement along the Yelwata axis of the Benue–Nasarawa highway was brought to a standstill on Wednesday as Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, staged a protest, demanding immediate return to their ancestral homes.

The protesters, believed to be victims of persistent attacks by suspected herdsmen, blocked both lanes of the busy highway for several hours, chanting “We want to go back home”.

The protest caused disruption, leaving hundreds of motorists and passengers stranded.

Eyewitnesses said the displaced persons, many of whom have spent years in overcrowded IDP camps, are expressing deep frustration over the government’s delay in restoring security to their communities.

“We have suffered enough. We want to return to our homes and farms,” one of the protesters told reporters at the scene.

Security personnel were reportedly deployed to monitor the situation and prevent any escalation, though tensions remained high as of press time.

Efforts to reach the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, and other relevant authorities for comment were unsuccessful.

Headlines

NNPCL reveals decision not to sell Port Harcourt refinery

Published

1 week ago

July 30, 2025

Matthew Eloyi

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL has officially decided not to sell the Port Harcourt Refining Company.

NNPCL has, instead said it is committed to conducting an extensive rehabilitation of the facility and ensuring its continued operation.

During a company-wide town hall meeting held at the NNPC Towers in Abuja, Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, announced the decision regarding the future of the nation’s most significant state-owned refining asset, putting an end to weeks of speculation.

A statement by NNPCL reads, “The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has officially ruled out the sale of the Port Harcourt Refining Company, reaffirming its commitment to completing high-grade rehabilitation and retention of the plant.

“The ongoing review indicates that the earlier decision to operate the Port Harcourt refinery, before full completion of its rehabilitation, was ill-informed and subcommercial.

”Although progress is being made on all three, the emerging outlook calls for more advanced technical partnerships to complete and high-grade the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery.

”Thus, selling is highly unlikely as it would lead to further value erosion.”

Headlines

Tinubu appoints Olumode Adeyemi as Federal Fire Service boss

Published

1 week ago

July 30, 2025

Matthew Eloyi

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Adeyemi Olumode, as the new Federal Fire Service, FFS, Controller-General.

The appointment was announced on Wednesday on behalf of the Federal Government by retired Maj.-Gen Abdulmalik Jubril, Secretary of the Civil, Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, CDCFIB.

Jubril said the appointment followed the retirement of the current Controller-General, Abdulganiyu Jaji, on August 13.

Jaji is retiring upon attaining the age of 60 by August 13.

Jibril further disclosed said that Adeyemi Olumode is qualified for the position, having attended and passed all mandatory in-service training, Command courses as well as other courses within and outside the country.

“He brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having transferred his service from the FCT Fire Service to the Federal Fire Service and grown to the rank of DCG in the Human Resource Directorate of the Service Headquarters.

“He has served in various capacities and is equally a member/fellow of the following professional associations including Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN, Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria, Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria and Chartered Institute of Treasury Management of Nigeria.”