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X3M Ideas, IKIGAI 360 Unite to Redefine Africa-Europe Creative Strategy

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X3M Ideas, IKIGAI 360 Unite to Redefine Africa-Europe Creative Strategy

By Raheem Akingbolu

 

X3M Ideas, a leading pan-African marketing communications agency, has announced a strategic partnership with IKIGAI 360, a creative agency with operations in Mozambique and a growing presence in Portugal. The alliance marks a deliberate move to deepen service capabilities across the African continent and key European markets, enhancing cultural intelligence, creative excellence, and market reach for an expanding roster of international clients.

The development comes at a time when global advertising and marketing firms are increasingly seeking to strengthen their positions in emerging markets while diversifying cultural competencies. For X3M Ideas—recently recognised by the Financial Times as one of Africa’s fastest-growing companies in 2025—this collaboration with Maputo- and Lisbon-based IKIGAI 360 signals a significant strategic entry into Lusophone Africa and Southern Europe, reinforcing its existing presence in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Dubai, and London.

“This partnership is more than just business expansion; it’s a strategic alignment of vision and values,” stated Steve Babaeko, CEO of X3M Ideas. “IKIGAI Mozambique, in particular, positions us firmly within the dynamic East African market and the wider SADC region. Our goal is to integrate international best practices with deep local market expertise, offering clients a truly unified and culturally intelligent campaign execution from Lagos to Lisbon, and Nairobi to Maputo.”

Also commenting on the partnership, Joana Prista, CEO of IKIGAI 360 Mozambique, said the collaboration comes at a pivotal moment for cross-continental business.

“With the growing strength of the economic corridor between Africa and Europe, now responsible for business opportunities worth hundreds of millions of dollars, this partnership positions us for smart, solid expansion, with real delivery capacity across increasingly interconnected markets.”

IKIGAI 360, whose philosophy draws from the Japanese concept of “IKIGAI” – meaning “a reason for being” – has earned a reputation for its human-centred approach to brand development. The agency brings strength in brand strategy, creative execution, content production, digital and traditional marketing, and public relations—capabilities that X3M Ideas seeks to amplify through the alliance.

Industry analysts suggest that cross-continental partnerships such as this are becoming essential for agencies aiming to offer comprehensive solutions in today’s globalised economy. According to Statista, advertising spending in Africa is projected to reach US$10.28 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9% from 2023 to 2029. The ability to navigate diverse linguistic and cultural contexts—especially within Africa’s expanding markets—now represents a significant competitive advantage.

“The market demands a nuanced understanding of local cultures, combined with global standards of excellence,” commented Ayeni Adekunle, a respected voice in marketing, media and communications. “This partnership between X3M Ideas and IKIGAI 360 could set a new benchmark for how agencies approach pan-African and Europe-Africa engagements, particularly given the focus on Lusophone markets which have historically been underserved by larger global networks.”

The strategic advantages for clients are far-reaching. These include direct access to Southern African and European markets, culturally attuned campaigns across Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone audiences, and fully integrated solutions that ensure seamless campaign execution in over 50 markets. The alliance also aims to position brands at the heart of Africa’s creative renaissance while tapping into growing Africa-Europe commercial opportunities.

Ultimately, this partnership reflects a broader shift within the global advertising industry—currently valued at over US$1.16 trillion—where organic growth is increasingly driven by strategic alliances and acquisitions designed to unlock new cultural and geographic competencies. As competition intensifies across global markets, the X3M Ideas–IKIGAI 360 alliance offers a forward-thinking model for scalable, culturally intelligent growth.

A Tribute to His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR

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A Tribute to His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR

By Honorable Sadiya Umar Farouq, CON

Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

 

A Journey Rooted in Conviction and Nationhood

As I reflect on the life and legacy of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, I do so with immense gratitude, humility, and a sense of patriotic pride. My first encounter with him was not in a political meeting room, but rather in the modest surroundings of Ahmadu Bello Univeristy, Zaria. He had come to visit his daughter, who happened to be my classmate. Even at that time, he carried himself with a quiet dignity that left a lasting impression on me as a young girl.

Years later, as the country’s political climate evolved, so did my path. I became actively involved in The Buhari Organization (TBO), a grassroots platform dedicated to amplifying the values and leadership ethos of General Buhari. The TBO would later make a foray into  the national partisan political space through the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and eventually the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), the political party that carried Baba Buhari’s  reformist vision into national prominence.

Through all these phases, President Buhari remained consistent—a symbol of integrity, discipline, and national commitment. In those early CPC days, he was not just a party leader; he was a mentor who believed in cultivating future leaders based on merit and patriotism. His presence was never overbearing, but always inspiring. He listened more than he spoke and acted only after deliberate reflection. In him, I found a moral compass, a teacher, and a steady hand in times of uncertainty in the trenches of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), a political movement born out of the yearning for a more transparent, just, and people-driven Nigeria. Back then, General Buhari—as we all knew him—was not just a political leader; he was a moral compass and a symbol of resistance against impunity.

President Buhari’s call to national service was never about self-interest. It was about a deep and abiding love for Nigeria. I saw firsthand how he embodied discipline, integrity, and frugality—values that became the foundation of the TBO, the CPC and later, the All Progressives Congress (APC). His presence in our meetings was never overbearing, but always decisive. He listened more than he spoke and acted only after deliberate consultation. In him, I found a mentor, a statesman, and a leader who never wavered in the face of adversity.

 

Leadership Through Principles

Serving under President Buhari was not just a political appointment—it was a national duty and a personal honor. As Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, I was entrusted with the weighty responsibility of managing crises in some of Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities. That trust was born not from convenience but from decades of mutual respect and aligned vision. He believed in competence, not noise; in results, not rhetoric.

 

President Buhari’s vision for a Nigeria that prioritized the poor and the vulnerable was resolute. Under his administration, we launched the largest social protection intervention in sub-Saharan Africa. The National Social Investment Program (NSIP), which included N-Power, Conditional Cash Transfer, Government Enterprise and Empowerment Program (GEEP), and the National Home-Grown School Feeding Program, impacted millions of households. These policies did not just emerge from Abuja boardrooms; they were rooted in President Buhari’s lived experiences growing up in Daura—he understood poverty not as a theory, but as a lived reality.

He was never one to be moved by fanfare or self-glorification. His instructions were often simple but profound: “Make sure the people see the impact.” That clarity of purpose made it possible for us to prioritize transparency, accountability, and scale.

 

In Times of Crisis, A President of Resolve

President Buhari’s tenure was not without trials—from security challenges in the North-East, the COVID-19 pandemic, to economic shocks caused by global oil fluctuations. Yet, in all these, he remained a leader of calm resolve. I remember vividly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the late-night strategy sessions, the anxious data reviews, and the urgent mobilizations to reach the most affected communities.

His support for the establishment and independence of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs was a testament to his foresight. He knew that Nigeria needed institutional preparedness and resilience in an age of compounding humanitarian crises. He never interfered for political expedience, and he gave me and my team the political backing to do what was right, even when it was not popular.

He carried Nigeria’s burdens with quiet dignity and an unwavering belief in the capacity of our people. Many will not know that even in his quietest moments, he asked detailed questions about displaced persons, orphans, widows, and returnees. He never stopped thinking about how the government could do better.

 

A Personal Reflection: Teacher, Leader, Mentor and Father Figure

On a personal note, President Muhammadu Buhari was more than a political leader. To me, he was a father figure. His guidance throughout my career was rooted in genuine mentorship. He believed in the capacity of women and young people. At a time when cynicism and tokenism clouded opportunities for women in politics, he gave me a platform to serve and grow.

His trust was never transactional. He never required sycophancy or blind loyalty. What he demanded was competence, truthfulness, and a commitment to service. For that, I remain eternally grateful.

He taught many of us that power is transient, and that leadership is not about the title you bear but the legacy you leave. His austere lifestyle, even as president, was a lesson in humility. His detachment from materialism and obsession with legacy projects like the Second Niger Bridge, railways, and agriculture reforms remind us that governance should outlive the officeholder.

 

Legacy of a Patriot

President Buhari may no longer be in office, but his legacy is deeply etched in the soul of Nigeria. His contribution to the fight against corruption, infrastructure renewal, social protection, and electoral reforms cannot be wished away, no matter how history is interpreted. He was a steward, not a conqueror of Nigeria’s resources. He governed with restraint and uncommon integrity.

For me,  Sadiya Umar Farouq, his former student in the political journey of service and sacrifice, I will continue to be guided by the ideals he stood for: justice, service, and patriotism. I will tell the next generation that I served under a president who led by example, who put the people before politics, and who walked away from power with the same simplicity with which he entered it.

To His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, thank you—for your leadership, for your mentorship, for your sacrifice. May history be kind to you. And may generations unborn learn that once in the life of this nation, a Honorable man came and lived for Nigeria.

“Allah ya ma Baba Buhari Rahama da Jannatul Firdausi, Ameen summa Ameen.”

Adieu Baba Buhari.

 

Signed:

Honorable Sadiya Umar Farouq, CON

Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

 

 

Rear Admiral Alade Rtd mourns passage of late President Buhari

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Rear Admiral Alade Rtd mourns passage of late President Buhari

Rear Admiral Samuel Ilesanmi Alade (SIA) Rtd has commiserated with the family of our revered former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed unto glory on Sunday, 13 July 2025, aged 82 years.

The retired Admiral while commiserating with the kits and kins of the entire natives of Daura, and the good people of Katsina State, Nigeria in particular, and Africa in general over the demise of the astute Iroko, stated that the great General and former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would be remembered for his unconditional love and commitment to the development of Nigeria.

In a statement personally signed by Rear Admiral Samuel Ilesanmi Alade (SIA) Rtd, and published by Equity News, Rear Admiral Alade (SIA) Rtd described late President Muhammad Buhari as a courageous leader who sacrificed everything in his capacity for the peace and economic prosperity of Nigeria, and someone whose legacy of incorruptible service and forthright leadership would continue to resonate in generations to come, and this has been well acknowledged throughout the world.

While praying to Allah to grant the soul of former President Buhari Aljanah Firdaous and give all he left behind the grace and fortitude to bear the loss, Retired Rear Admiral Ilesanmi Alade urged the Federal Government to immortalise the late Muhammadu Buhari for his sacrifice for the Country.

“I am very privileged and proud to have served as the Commandant National Defence College, Abuja under his Presidency. I recall my personal interactions with him and advice to take the College to higher levels as best as I could, including moral and outstanding financial support to the College during my tenure. I am, therefore, most grateful to have drawn from the wisdom and knowledge of this distinguished leader of our time. My only way to thank him is to continue to be steadfast and lead in honour to the benefit of humanity. I therefore offer my deepest condolences to his immediate family members, our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the entire members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the good people of our great nation, Nigeria. May his gentle and loving soul rest in perfect peace, Amen”

Skill Acquisition: Disregard Unauthorised Training Programme

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Skill Acquisition: Disregard Unauthorised Training Programme

The attention of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has been drawn to a report circulating in the media, claiming that the NDDC has failed to fulfil its promise to pay trainees for a purported skill acquisition programme.

The supposed skill acquisition programme, said to have been organised by a religious group, Victorious Prayer Network, allegedly took place in Bayelsa and Rivers states.

In a statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs noted that the self-appointed organisers claimed that the NDDC promised to sponsor over 2,000 trainees and give them starter packs. They accused the NDDC of reneging on that promise.

We wish to clarify that the NDDC approved no such training programme, and whatever training was organised under suspicious circumstances did not have the blessings and approval of the Commission. The individuals behind these allegations against the NDDC were never engaged by the Commission to carry out skills training.

We wish to state unequivocally that the NDDC is not behind this particular skill acquisition training. Our programmes are usually well-advertised and open to scrutiny. We recently launched a comprehensive technical skills acquisition programme to equip participants with practical, in-demand skills in Port Harcourt.

Members of the public, especially our youths, are advised to be cautious and circumspect in dealing with some questionable persons claiming to be acting on behalf of the NDDC.
It is disturbing that some mischievous individuals are trying to take advantage of our youths who are genuinely eager to be gainfully engaged in legitimate activities.

We assure all our stakeholders that we remain committed to transparency and fairness in all our activities, including our youth empowerment and skill acquisition programmes.
In light of this unfortunate development, we urge our youth to be wary of desperate people seeking undeserved financial gains.

All inquiries about our youth empowerment programmes should be channelled through our official communication platforms. We also encourage beneficiaries of our programmes to verify facts on the NDDC’s official website: [www.nddc.gov.ng] and our social media handles.

Leadership Stability Will Ensure NDDC Delivers On Projects – Jonathan

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Leadership Stability Will Ensure NDDC Delivers On Projects – Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has stressed the need for continuity in the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to ensure that development projects are completed and not abandoned.

Dr Jonathan, who spoke at the plenary of the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the NDDC at the Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre, Port Harcourt, decried the frequent changes in the leadership of the NDDC.

In a statement signed by NDDCs Director Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama
he noted that: “The frequent changes of the leadership of the NDDC have been a problem for the development. When we listened to the keynote address, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala observed that the Commission abandoned numerous projects.

“They were not abandoned because the managers of the NDDC wanted to do so, but the frequent changes made it that way. When planning is impossible or time is limited, agencies resort to contractor-driven projects instead of those based on planning.

“From what the chairman said, over these 25 years, we have had 11 CEOs of the NDDC. That means that the CEO on average is two years, three months. So, two years, three months, how can you plan? How can you finish projects that are significant to the region?”

The former Bayelsa State governor commended President Bola Tinubu for retaining Samuel Ogbuku as the Managing Director of the NDDC, a move he said showed that the President was interested in developing the region.

Jonathan said further: “We are here celebrating because he (Ogbuku) has stayed a little more than two years. Former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him in 2022, I think November or so, but he resumed duty on January 4, 2023.

“Tinubu came on board in May 2023. If Tinubu were not interested in developing this region, he would have removed him and given the appointment to another person. He would have been just five months in office. Nobody would have heard about Ogbuku.

“We hear about Oyema Ugochukwu and Timi Alaibe because they stayed for a reasonable time, and within that period, they were able to put things on the ground that people remember.”

Jonathan, however, urged the agency not to relent but to deepen its commitments to performance-driven and inclusive governance, one that prioritises long-term impacts over short-term, politically motivated projects.

He added, “We must continually emphasise that the future of the Niger Delta does not rest solely on oil and gas. It lies in agriculture, education, digital innovation, tourism, and renewable energy. True sustainability requires preparing our region for a post-oil economy, the transition that must begin now.”

Speaking in a similar vein, the pioneer chairman of the NDDC, Chief Onyema Uguchukwu, advised the Federal Government to allow the current board of the NDDC to serve out its four-year tenure.

He declared: “The current Board and Management are doing a good job and I have said that so many times that I have no reservations about commending them. A lot went wrong in the NDDC two years ago, particularly during the caretaker committee and sole administrators, when irregularities were typical. Now they are doing very well to raise hope again.

“When you don’t have sustained leadership for a period, it affects any organisation. Comparing the Asian Tigers to Nigeria reveals a key difference: the duration of leadership. In NDDC, some people are removed after only 2 years. It doesn’t provide the necessary impetus to drive the development process correctly.

 

Ambode Support Group Mourns Ex-President Buhari, Oba Sikiru Adetona Awujale of Ijebuland   

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Ambode Support Group Mourns Ex-President Buhari, Oba Sikiru Adetona Awujale of Ijebuland   

The Ambode Support Group Worldwide has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of two towering figures in Nigeria’s national and traditional landscape — former President Muhammadu Buhari and His Royal Majesty Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.

In a heartfelt condolence message, the Director General of the Ambode Support Group Worldwide, Hon. Seyi Bamgbade, sympathized with both bereaved families and described the deaths as a great national loss. He noted that the passing of these two respected leaders marks the end of an era of service, wisdom, and dedication to both the nation and the traditional institution.

“President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with integrity, discipline, and a deep sense of patriotism. His legacy in the areas of anti-corruption, infrastructural development, and security reforms will remain part of the nation’s history,” Hon. Bamgbade said.

On the late Oba Sikiru Adetona, he stated, “The Awujale was not just a monarch but a reformer and a symbol of courage and progressive leadership in the traditional system. His reign brought peace, development, and pride to Ijebuland and beyond.”

The Ambode Support Group Worldwide stands in solidarity with the families of the deceased, the government and people of Nigeria, as well as the entire Ijebu nation, praying for strength to bear the irreplaceable losses.

“We mourn today, but we also celebrate the impactful lives of two great men who have left indelible marks on the sands of time. May their souls rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.

Sign

Pius Ade Babaleye Pab

State Director of media and information

Ambode Support Group Worldwide

FG Will Empower NDDC to Deliver on its Mandate – President Tinubu

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FG Will Empower NDDC to Deliver on its Mandate – President Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated that his administration will empower the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to deliver on its mandate of facilitating the development of the Niger Delta region through the Renewed Hope Agenda.

President Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Federal Government, Senator Goerge Akume, spoke at the plenary of the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the NDDC at the Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre, Port Harcourt.

He affirmed the central role of the NDDC in the country’s development architecture, stating: “The NDDC remains pivotal to the development of the Niger Delta region, which has greatly contributed to the growth of our nation.

My administration pledges full support to the Commission and will ensure it remains adequately empowered to perform its mandate.”

President Tinubu directed the NDDC, through the Ministry of Regional Development, to complete all abandoned legacy projects and emphasised the need for continued youth engagement, crime prevention, and agricultural development as critical focus areas for the Commission.
In his remarks, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, noted the Senate’s instrumental role in the establishment of the NDDC.

“There would be no NDDC without the Senate, which passed the bill that created the Commission. That is why we are here today, to show our full support for this celebration,” he stated.

Former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, in a goodwill message, described the silver jubilee as a moment for sober reflection and planning. He urged the Commission to begin moving from oil dependency to explore renewable energy and other sustainable opportunities for the region.

“The next 25 years should usher in greater development, and the future of the Niger Delta lies in the hands of the NDDC,” he declared.

Delivering the keynote address on the theme of the plenary, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, emphasised the importance of turning vision into tangible achievements.

“The NDDC has a huge responsibility to the people of the Niger Delta. The significance of today’s celebration must translate into real, measurable impact. You have done a lot of work, but much more needs to be done,” she charged.

She added that the best service the Commission could render was to deploy available resources for the transformation of the region.

In a goodwill message, the Administrator of the Rivers State Government, Admiral Ibok-Ete Abas (Rtd) Rtd, welcomed guests to Port Harcourt and commended the NDDC’s resilience and alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.

“Through challenges, the NDDC has transformed lives, created wealth, and continues to make an impact. Avoidance of project duplication remains essential to sustaining progress,” the message noted.

Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, in his remarks, described the event as more than a celebration.

“It is a reaffirmation of a better future for the Niger Delta region,” he said.

The Minister gave kudos to the NDDC Board and Management for delivering impactful projects in the Niger Delta region, citing the commissioning of the 25.7 km Ogbia-Emakalakala-Akipelai-Etiama-Nembe Road with seven bridges and the 132KV Transmission Line and I32KV/33KV electricity substation at Ode-Erinje in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

He noted that the NDDC also commissioned the Iko-Atabrikang-Akata-Opulom-Ikot Inwang-Okoroutip-Iwochang Road with a 800-metre Ibeno Bridge.
Momoh said that despite the challenges of developing the Niger Delta region, the NDDC had risen to the challenge by executing projects that have improved the lives of the people.

He said that President Tinubu was very pleased with the performance of the current leadership of the NDDC.
The Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, highlighted the evolution of the Commission’s leadership over the years, stating that the current Board had prioritised stakeholder engagement as a key tool for inclusive development.

In his address, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, described the silver jubilee as the beginning of a new era. “This anniversary marks the dawn of a new beginning; not just for the NDDC, but for the entire Niger Delta region,” he stated.

Also speaking, the pioneer Chairman of the NDDC Board, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, congratulated the Commission on reaching 25 years, noting that one of its challenges had been frequent leadership changes, which he hoped would now be a thing of the past.

 

NDDC Celebrates Culture, Affirms To A Peaceful Niger Delta

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NDDC Celebrates Culture, Affirms To A Peaceful Niger Delta

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has described the Arts and Culture Day organised by the Commission as a demonstration of the fact that the Niger Delta region is peaceful.

Ogbuku, who stated this during the Arts and Culture Day organised as part of activities marking the Commission’s 25th anniversary in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, described the moment as an indication of peace in the region.

The NDDC Chief Executive Officer explained that the day was set aside to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the oil-rich region, in keeping with the anniversary celebration as noted in a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, NDDCs Director, Corporate Affairs.

The Arts and Culture Day kicked off with a fitness walk from the Polo Club in the Government Reserved Area, GRA, Port Harcourt. It moved through Mummy B Road, joining Stadium Road and terminated at the Yakubu Gowan Stadium in Elekahia.

Different states of the region took turns to parade, dance, and entertain the crowd that thronged the stadium in various dancing steps.

Ogbuku said the art and cultural parade was meant to foster cordial relationships among the people of the Niger Delta.

“We are here today to foster conviviality amongst ourselves as the people of the Niger Delta; to network amongst ourselves, to build relationships and to bond as a people.

“Just the way we did during the Niger Delta Sports Festival, which was the first of its kind, we are here today in Port Harcourt to build conviviality amongst ourselves, love among the people of the Niger Delta. We might differ in tribes, but the Niger Delta is one, Nigeria is one.”

In his remarks, Chairman of the NDDC governing board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, said the event had provided an opportunity for Niger Deltans to showcase their rich culture.
Ebie said, “This is remarkable as we come to showcase the diversity of the Niger Delta region. We are here to enjoy ourselves; we are here to show that the Niger Delta is rich in tradition and culture.”

In a welcome address, Chairman of the planning committee, Alabo Boma Iyaye, told participants that the Arts and Culture Day formed part of the anniversary celebration.
Iyaye commended participants for showcasing their talents and contributing to the success of the anniversary.

President Tinubu Hails Niger Delta Youths, Women

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President Tinubu Hails Niger Delta Youths, Women

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the people of the Niger Delta region, particularly the youths and women, for demonstrating solidarity with his administration and supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President’s message was conveyed by the Managing Director of the Niger Delta NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, during the Youth and Women Conference in Owerri, Imo State, as part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of the NDDC.

Ogbuku announced that President Tinubu had mandated him to extend his gratitude to the youths and women of the Niger Delta for their support and cooperation. He noted that last year, when youths across the country were preparing for protests against the administration of President Tinubu, sponsored by some politicians, the Niger Delta youths and women stood solidly behind the President.

The NDDC boss recalled that the Commission organised a youth forum attended by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu and other stakeholders.

He stated: “In that gathering, the people of the Niger Delta took their fate in their hands and resolved that they were not going to be part of the protest. So, while some other parts of Nigeria were boiling, the Niger Delta was very peaceful.”

“I want to let you know that part of his gratitude is what he has delegated the NDDC to do. That is why he has not taken his eyes off the Niger Delta Development Commission, as the only way he can reach out to you is through the Commission’s activities.”

Ogbuku stated that the NDDC had achieved significant progress in its 25 years, and the role of the youth and women must be acknowledged. “We felt the youth and women must be recognised through a programme specifically meant for them. Hence, today, this programme is taking place where youths and women from different parts of the Niger Delta are together for us to also update you on what we have done so far, our programmes and plans for the youths and women as we turn a new leaf to start a new journey after 25 years.”

“We felt that there is no way we could start this new journey without coming to you, without consulting you, without hearing from you, to begin a new chapter in the history of the NDDC. That is why this programme is essential to us, and that is why it is significant to this government, so that we can also be guided appropriately based on your thoughts, your vision, and on what the NDDC can do for you.

Ogbuku noted that the current Board and Management of the NDDC introduced the Youth Internship Scheme. He explained that the Commission had digitalised its youth programmes to make them more accessible to young people, regardless of their social status.

“As long as you are listed in our database, we will contact you based on your areas of competence and strength. We developed a process for integrating data into our operations.to ensure that as many people as possible benefit from our youth programmes.”

The NDDC Managing Director stated that President Tinubu’s development agenda had charged the Commission to complete all legacy projects, warning that no project should be abandoned. “We are pleased that he appointed a Minister who is an engineer, who is supporting us technically and administratively,” Ogbuku said.

Ogbuku equally acknowledged the support of members of the National Assembly, noting that the lawmakers were fully backing the NDDC to ensure that it achieved its mandate of developing the Niger Delta region.

Prosperity Cup Organizers Celebrate Custom Boss Adeniyi’s Victory As WCO Chairperson

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Prosperity Cup Organizers Celebrate Custom Boss Adeniyi’s Victory As WCO Chairperson

The Organizers of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament tagged the Prosperity Cup have congratulated the Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his historic emergence as Chairperson of the Council of the World Customs Organisation (WCO).

Director-General of the tournament, Mr. Ono Akpe in a congratulatory message on behalf of the Central Organizing Committee (COC), of the competition, described his emergence as a testament to his exceptional leadership.

The statement described the Custom boss’s triumph in Brussels, Belgium as a defining moment for Nigeria on the global stage, pointing out that his victory is a reflection of his dedication, professionalism, and visionary leadership.

It notes that Mr. Adeniyi’s elevation as the first Nigerian to head the 73-year-old organisation representing 186 member nations was indicative of the growing global confidence in the competence and capability of Nigerians.

It commends the Custom boss for embracing sports as a tool to foster national unity and youth engagement, citing his partnership with the Prosperity Cup particularly his support for the last Governor Diri National Wrestling Classics in Yenagoa as well as hosting of the African Women’s Club Volleyball Championship by the Nigeria Customs Service as a shining example.

The statement expresses hope that his tenure as the WCO would further elevate Nigeria’s standing in international affairs while inspiring future leaders at home.

“For us in Bayelsa we are confident that his leadership will foster cooperation, modernisation, and capacity building among member countries, ultimately enhancing international trade and economic development globally.”

“This historic feat is not only a personal victory but also a national pride. Your swift impact as Comptroller-General has earned you respect both locally and internationally.” Akpe stated.

“Congratulations once again, Sir. We look forward to witnessing even more trailblazing achievements from your office in the coming days” he added.

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