Mrs. Habiba Barbara Sam of the Akwa-Ibom State owned Newspaper- The Pioneer, has been elected Chairperson of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Edo State chapter. She's replacing the immediate past Chairperson- Adesuwa Ehimuan of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Bronze FM.  The immediate past Secretary, Barbara Sam has been a selfless committed member of NAWOJ and actively participated in all her activities. This to many of her peers, won her the leaders endorsement for the position of Edo NAWOJ Chairperson. Those elected include: Habiba Sam- Chairman; Oyemwense Ode- Vice- Chairman; Joy Ebuanekpe- Secretary;  Joyce Alohan- Assistant secretary; Iyabo Osagiede - Treasurer; Elizabeth Owotuoma- Financial secretary; and Anita Erhenhi- Auditor.  Delivering a speech, the newly elected Edo NAWOJ boss said she was grateful for the trust reposed in her to lead the Edo State Chapter of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) for the next th...

By Isaac Eranga , Edo Indigenous Journalist   Benin City – The Businesses and Hoteliers Stakeholders Forum (BSHF) in Edo State has hailed the emerging partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as a turning point that will eliminate misunderstandings and abrupt raids on legitimate hotel businesses. Speaking on behalf of the Forum, Chairman, Chief Omogiade Edokpolo described the development as a “new era of trust and collaboration,” stressing that the cooperation will ensure hotel owners no longer feel targeted without justification. “We have in the past experienced raids that sometimes occurred without prior engagement or clear understanding of our operations. These actions, though within the EFCC’s mandate, often created fear and disrupted genuine businesses,” Chief Edokpolo said.  “With this new partnership, we are confident that such misunderstandings will become a thing of the past. Our members can now operate in a safe and predictable environm...

 The Fruit of the Spirit and Falulu Fohalowo: Synergy of Christian  Values and Nias Culture in Character Education for Teenagers Niat Hati Waruwu1*, Etika Merlin Gea2 , Wira Zai3 1-3Christian Religious Education Study Program of the Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Ekumene Jakarta, Indonesia *Coressponding Author: niathatiwaruwu@sttekumene.ac.id1*, etikamergea@sttekumene.ac.id2,  wirasusantizai@sttekumene.ac.id3 Abstract This article aims to examine the synergy between the values of the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22– 23) and the cultural values of Falulu Fohalowo from the people of Nias as a basis in the formation of the  character of today's Christian youth. This research uses a literature study method by examining various  sources such as the Bible, theological literature, books, and relevant scientific articles. The results of the  study show that the Fruit of the Spirit emphasizes inner transformation through the development of  love, joy, peace, patie...

By Isaac Eranga, Edo Indigenous Journalist The Edo State Chapter of the Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA) has joined the national body and other State chapters in celebrating the coalition’s 25th anniversary, expressing deep appreciation and heartfelt acknowledgment of its remarkable contributions to advancing quality education across Nigeria. Speaking at a special commemorative gathering in Benin City, the Edo State Coordinator- Ronke Ojeikere commended CSACEFA’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education for every child.  According to Ronke Ojeikere, "over the past twenty-five years, CSACEFA has evolved into a dynamic coalition that amplifies the voices of civil society organizations, strengthens accountability systems, and promotes citizens’ engagement in education governance". She said the Edo Chapter acknowledged that CSACEFA’s coordinated advocacy, policy dialogues, and community int...

Culled from tvcnews.tv Dr. Samuel Okpuku of NDDC The Niger Delta Development Commission , NDDC , has demanded a retraction and apology from the Punch and Daily Times newspapers over an alleged coup rumour against the Federal Republic of Nigeria . The Commission’s Legal Counsel, ADEDIPE AND ADEDIPE Legal Practitioners , in a strongly worded letter signed by Chief Ayodeji Adedipe , SAN , demanded that The Punch, the Daily Times and others retract the offensive and false publication and tender an unreserved public apology. Adedipe said the report, “falsely alleged that Dr Samuel Ogbuku , Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was arrested by military intelligence for allegedly co-sponsoring a failed coup plot against President Tinubu . “The publication further claimed, without any factual or evidential basis, that Dr Ogbuku transferred funds from NDDC contracts to finance an alleged coup plot. These allegations are entirely false, malicious, and defamatory.”...

By Fred Itus The recent attempt to romanticize the so-called “re-enactment of Obaseki’s education reforms” is not only misleading but also a desperate attempt to whitewash the failures of an administration that left behind a trail of disillusionment, deceit, and betrayal among Edo teachers. The ongoing narrative, deliberately sponsored and amplified by a few individuals nostalgic about the past government, seeks to misinform the public and distort the truth about the state of education in Edo. But facts, as always, are sacred and cannot be buried under political propaganda. It is important to set the records straight: the Obaseki-led government did not reform education - it weaponized it for political survival. What was branded as “innovation” was, in fact, a carefully packaged illusion that crushed the hopes of hundreds of young Edo teachers who were lured into the system without proper employment letters, pension benefits, or confirmation of their civil service status for more than t...

By Fred Itua In a political and economic landscape where debt accumulation has become a norm, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State is quietly scripting a new narrative; one anchored on prudence, discipline, and purposeful leadership. His administration is redefining what is possible when integrity meets strategy in governance. The Debt Management Office (DMO) recent release, shows that Edo State’s domestic debt has dropped significantly from ₦113 billion in December 2024 to ₦80 billion by June 2025, while foreign debt has reduced from $383 million to $337 million. This rare achievement did not come through new loans, bailouts, or federal interventions; it came through careful management, transparent spending, and strategic prioritization. In less than a year in office, Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated that progress does not depend on reckless borrowing, but on sound economic thinking and disciplined governance. The governor’s stewardship has shifted the state’s fiscal trajectory...

Edo State Governor , Senator Monday Okpebholo , has pledged the State Government’s full support to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in its efforts to curb vandalism and regulate scrap and scavenging activities across the State. The Governor made the commitment on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the new NSCDC Commandant, Edo State Command, Commandant Akintayo Saidi Ayinla , at the Government House in Benin City , the State capital. Governor Okpebholo, during the visit, extended his condolences to the NSCDC over the passing of the late Commandant Gbenga Agun Joseph , describing the news of his death as a shock. Okpebholo said: "Let me welcome you to Government House this morning and, first of all, condole with you once again on the passing of our friend and brother, your predecessor. Having said that, I want to welcome you back to Edo. With the information I have before me, you are not new to the State. So, I can say that you are a son of the soil.”  Addressin...

.... extolled the Revered Monarch, on the occasion of his birthday. By Isaac Eranga, Edo Indigenous Journalist The Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has extolled the revered Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, on the occasion of his birthday. Governor Okpebholo has also extended his best wishes to the Benin Monarch on his 9th year coronation anniversary.  In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo celebrated the Monarch's firm commitment to the preservation of the rich cultural heritage of the Edo people and his impactful leadership since ascending the revered throne of his ancestors. Governor Okpebholo described the Oba as a unique Monarch whose reign has been characterized by peace, development, and a push for the unity and progress of the Benin Kingdom and Edo State at large. “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Edo State...

The redeployed Acting Zonal Director of EFCC- Effa Imoh Okim Chief Bishop Omogiade Enoyiogiere Edokpolo- BHSF Chairman The Business and Hoteliers Stakeholders Forum (BHSF) has applauded the EFCC Chairman- Ola Olukoyede for redeploying the Acting Zonal Director- Effa Imoh Okim from Edo State , saying  it has long be the prayer of business owners and hoteliers in the State. The group also thank the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for throwing its weight behind them. This was made known in a press statement signed by the Secretary of the group- Osarobo Onaghise, Esq , and made available to newsmen in Benin City . This press statement is sequel to  the press conference conveyed by BHSF on October 1st, 2025, where the chairman of BHSF- Chief Bishop Omogiade Enoyiogiere Edokpolo called for the removal of the Acting Director from office  According to the statement, the call for the removal is not unconnected to the incessant attack on business premises by the  anti-graft a...

In its continued effort towards promoting quality education and learning support among children in public schools, the Edwin Omoregie Foundation , under the leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Edwin Omoregie , visited several primary schools across Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State to distribute educational materials to pupils and teachers. The outreach, which took place on Monday 13th October, saw pupils in various schools receive essential learning materials such as notebooks, pencils, erasers, biros, blackboard markers, and other instructional tools. In addition, the foundation presented special packages to pupils who came out first in their classes during the last academic term- a gesture aimed at recognizing academic excellence and motivating other students to work harder. This initiative by the Edwin Omoregie Foundation aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4- Quality Education , which seeks to ensure i...

Benin City: In an effort towards localizing the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 in Edo State, the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) Nigeria has reiterated the importance of a costing workshop in aligning the State Action Plan (SAP) with Nigeria's third National Action Plan (NAP) on UNSCR 1325 . The workshop which brought together members of the Edo State Action Plan Localization Steering Committee , reflecting Edo State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps , the Media, Religious and Community Leaders, is part of the project "Strengthening Local Leadership in Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace and Security in Nigeria, was anchored by the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) Nigeria , in partnership with the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP), and with support from Global Affairs Canada . In her welcome address, WANEP's Nigeria National Network Coor...

Isaac Eranga, reporting As the world observes the 2025 International Day of Peace, with the theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World”, a greater urgency than ever has been resonated. This year’s theme is a powerful reminder that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, dialogue, and mutual respect.  The Partners for Peace (P4P) Niger Delta, Edo State Chapter, joins millions across the globe to champion this cause. In collaboration with like-minded organizations and civic groups, P4P Edo State is organizing a series of activities — including media interventions and community engagements — to highlight the practical steps individuals and institutions can take to nurture lasting peace. This was contained in a press release signed by the State Coordinator - Engr. Eugene Okoeguale.  “Peace is everyone’s business,” says the P4P State leadership. “From government officials to students, market women to faith leaders, each of us has a role to play in silenci...

The Edwin Omoregie Foundation has presented an Award of Excellence to Hon. Samuel Omokaro Izekor in recognition of his selfless contributions to humanity both at home and abroad. A respected community leader in Rome, Italy, Hon. Izekor has made a significant impact through his charitable efforts and leadership within the Nigerian diaspora. As an employer of labour, Hon. Izekor has provided opportunities for over 100 Nigerians through his company based overseas. In addition to his business achievements, he serves as the President of the Edo State Cultural Association, Rome, where he continues to foster unity, cultural heritage, and community development. This prestigious award acknowledges his unwavering dedication to supporting Nigerians in the diaspora and promoting humanitarian values. The Edwin Omoregie Foundation encouraged him to continue his noble work and expressed deep appreciation for all he has done. During the event, Comr. Barakel Igbinedion highlighted Hon. Izekor’s numerou...

 ... As steering committee meet in Benin By Isaac Eranga As part of commitment towards actualizing the domestication of the United Nations Security Council (UNSCR) 1325 of Women Peace and Security (WPS) in Edo State, Edo State Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and Civil Society Organisations, in collaboration with the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP)- Nigeria, recently met in Benin City, the Edo State capital. The meeting which was held in the conference hall of the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development gave room for the MDAs and CSOs to discuss the draft State Action Plan of the UNSCR 1325 and identify possible stakeholders that will be incorporated into the steering committee to actualize the action document. According to the facilitator of the meeting- Amb. Barr. Agatha Osieke, the meeting was to identify gaps in the State Action Plan (SAP) and to profer pragmatic ways of filling the gaps. In a welcome address, the Honorable Commissioner o...

…..Says, “Joe Okojie will be disgraced in Uromi” A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Mr. John Mayaki, has said that the party is fully set to defeat the candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Joe Okojie, in the Edo Central Senatorial rerun election even in his domain, Uromi. “The main contender in the election is Joseph Ikpea,” Mayaki said. “His election to fill the vacant seat left by Governor Monday Okpebholo will be the final nail in the political coffin of the opposition PDP before the 2027 general election.” Mayaki told reporters in Benin City that the good work being done by the APC government of Governor Monday Okpebholo in the state would give the party an added advantage ahead of the rerun. His words: “We are fully prepared to take on our opponent in the election. We will demonstrate with this election that the PDP is dead in Edo State, and we will go further to defeat their candidate in his Uromi stronghold. “You will see ...

F rom right - 4th is Chief Dr Bridget Osakwe, 5th Edo State Commissioner of Police CP Monday Agbonika, 6th Edo Commissioner for Women Affairs Chief Barr. Mrs Bisi Idaomi, 8th WPS Consultant Mrs Amy Oyekunle, and others during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Women Affairs A 2-Day Review Meeting on Localization of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 and Women, Peace and Security in Edo State, Nigeria, has been held in Benin.  The meeting which was under the auspices of West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) Nigeria, in partnership with the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP), with support from global Affairs Canada, brought together stakeholders comprising both state and non-state actors to review the draft State Action Plan (SAP) in order to align it with Nigeria's 3rd National Action Plan (NAP). Declaring the meeting open, the Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development- Chief Mrs Bisi Idaomi, said she was  honor...

Amina A. Umar​1,MBBS, MPH,  Hassan Adam Murtala2 MBBS, MPH, MIPC, MBA,  Aisha Adam Abdullahi2 MBBS, MSc, Amina Aminu2 MBBS,  Muktar H. Aliyu3 MD, DrPH,  Sani H. Aliyu4 MBBS, MSc,  Ololade D. Adeyemi5 MD, MPH, MLA,  Deepa Dongarwar6 MS,  Jordi B. Torrelles7 PhD,  Gambo Aliyu8 MBBS, PhD,  Hamisu M. Salihu2MD, PhD 1Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria 2Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Kano Independent Research Center Trust, Kano, Nigeria 3Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America 4Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom 5Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria 6University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America 7Population Health Program, The International Center for the Advancement of Research and Education, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of...