Saturday, May 9, 2026
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NDDC Cautions Nigerians Over Internship Scam Targeting Youths

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The Niger Delta Development Commission has warned Nigerians to beware of fraudsters exploiting its Youth Internship Scheme to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.

In a statement, the Commission said its attention had been drawn to a viral message circulating across social media platforms, in which scammers are asking “all Nigerian youths” to submit their bank account details to receive a N50,000 monthly stipend as purported beneficiaries of the scheme.

According to the Commission, the individuals behind the scheme are attempting to deceive youths by posing as representatives of the NDDC and falsely linking the offer to its legitimate empowerment programmes.

“The criminals behind this deception are luring youths into falling for their phantom scheme, hiding behind the cover of NDDC’s various youth empowerment schemes,” the statement noted.

The Commission clarified that beneficiaries of its Youth Internship Scheme were carefully selected and documented through its official database, stressing that many eligible youths from the Niger Delta had already benefited from the genuine programme.

It urged the public, particularly young Nigerians seeking employment opportunities, to exercise caution and rely only on verified communication channels.

“We advise members of the public, especially our youths who are seeking genuine means of livelihood, to beware of the antics of scammers and seek information only from the NDDC official channels,” the Commission stated.

Describing the situation as troubling, the NDDC lamented that some individuals were exploiting the vulnerability of youths eager to secure legitimate means of livelihood.

“It is indeed disturbing that some mischievous individuals are trying to take advantage of our youths who are genuinely eager to be gainfully engaged in legitimate activities,” it added.

 

The Commission further directed that all enquiries regarding its Youth Internship Scheme and other empowerment initiatives should be made through its official platforms. It also encouraged beneficiaries and prospective applicants to verify information via its website and social media handles to avoid falling victim to fraud.

Prosperity Cup 2026: Agbere FC Crash Out Of Tournament

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‎… As Movers FC, NDU Oilers, Onde United Qualify For LGA Finals

‎Sagbama Local Government Area defending champions, Agbere FC of Agbere have been booted out of season 8 of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament tagged the Prosperity Cup.

‎Kolobiriowei FC at the Ebedebiri centre shocked Agbere FC by two goals to one to secure a place in the round of 32. ‎Kolobiriowei FC took a surprise lead 13 minutes into the game from Arepade Asu’s beautiful finish.

‎Agbere FC responded swiftly from Toledo Precious’ beautiful delivery to level the scoreline before halftime

‎The second half proved tense and a scrappy affair, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances despite the ‎pressure from Agbere FC, Kolobiriowei FC remained resilient at the back while waiting to hit their opponent on the counter.

‎Kolobiriowei FC’s persistence paid off late in the game when Israel, who had been a constant menace to Agbere FC’s defence throughout the game, struck on 84 minutes to seal a memorable victory for the underdogs to qualify for the round of 32.

‎Coach Ebi Amula of Agbere FC will have to wait another year to see if they can realize their dream of winning the tournament.

‎Agoro United at the Ogobiri centre triumphed 4-3 on penalties against determined Akeddei FC, in a very physical, if not aggressive match, after a one-all draw in regulation time to secure passage to the round of 32, having shown dominance at the Ogobiri centre.

‎Afini FC in the final match in Yenagoa LGA decided at the Biogbolo centre, beat the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC FC 4-3 on penalties after a barren draw in normal time to qualify for the business stage of the competition.

‎On their part, Onde United of Ondewari, in the Southern Ijaw LGA play-off decided at the Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, BDGS centre beat Onyoma FC by two goals to one while NDU Oilers FC, in the second game, defeated Eniwari FC of Eniwari by two goals to one to set up a LGA final with Onde United.

‎Movers FC of Otuasega in the second semi final play-off in Ogbia LGA pipped Kolo Creek United by a lone goal, courtesy of Miracle Nathaniel’s 81st minute finish.

‎Movers FC will now face Edi 1 FC of Ayakoro in the Ogbia LGA final next month as the competition gets closer to the money-spinning stage.

‎The Prosperity Cup train is expected to move to Kolokuma/ Opokuma LGA this weekend as the LGA finals get underway next month.

NIPR Reaffirms Commitment to Amplifying Women’s Voices at its First IWD

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The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), says it is committed to a future where women’s voices will be heard more, stressing that their talent and leadership is crucial to drive an inclusive national growth.

These were the words of the President, Chairman of Council of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku on Monday, 30th March, 2026 at the International Women’s Day event organised by the Institute in Abuja, in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser.

Themed, “Communicate to Balance: Gain Equity, Empower Women”, it was the Institute’s maiden International Women’s Day.

While emphasising that societies do not diminish, instead flourish when women are enabled to contribute in key sectors, including public service, media, corporate governance, civil society and public relations, Dr. Neliaku noted that women have continued to demonstrate brilliance, resilience and transformative attributes even within the fold of NIPR.

Describing as “paradox” a situation where men adore their mothers, love their wives, honour their sisters, cherish their daughters and at the same time are reluctant in supporting women to take up leadership positions. “I don’t understand the paradox. When it comes to women being in leadership positions, they say no”, he stated.

He continues, “In the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), we therefore reaffirm our commitment to a future where women’s voices must be heard. Every woman’s talent is valued, and every woman’s leadership is welcomed.

“As we gather to celebrate the first NIPR International Women’s Day, we celebrate not only the struggles of the past, but the extraordinary possibilities of the future. As we lament the past, we must look up to the future. We celebrate the unstoppable force of human progress that women represent. The progress of humanity has never been the work of men alone”, the NIPR boss further stated.

In her remarks, the Keynote Speaker and Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala-Usman described communication as a tool to correct stereotypes that have worked against women for decades, urging public relations practitioners to contribute in changing the narrative by communicating with precision, backed by data and enabled by courage.

While underlining that it is not enough for few women to shatter the glass ceiling and make their way to the decision-making table, Usman said the systemic barrier that stop others must be addressed holistically to create more opportunities for others.

“It is therefore the responsibility of communicators to pioneer equity branding and communications that explains and advocates for policies that advocate specific barriers”, she said.

She urged that social and cultural stigma that silence women’s voices in leadership and public discourse should be confronted, decrying low representation of women in leadership across board.

Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event said the theme is a direction, strategy and national call to action which speaks directly to the conscience of the nation.

The governor said a communication that excludes women sustains inequality, calling on public relations professionals to use their privileged positions to strike a balance that highlights women as leaders, thinkers, innovators and decision-makers.

“When women are empowered, the future is secured. Let us, therefore, not just celebrate women, let us create systems where they thrive. Let us not just speak about equity let us institutionalise it. And let us not just communicate, let us communicate to transform”, the governor advised.

Source: www.niprng.org.ng

Prosperity Cup 2026: Silas Scores Again As MFM FC Crush Rich Destiny FC

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Mountain of Fire Ministries, MFM FC produced a composed performance on Matchday five in Yenagoa LGA in the biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, tagged the Prosperity Cup.

‎MFM FC at the Tombia centre thrashed Rich Destiny FC by four goals to nil to continue their impressive form in the competition. Desmond Godday put the prayer warriors ahead 13 minutes into the encounter from a perfect finish.

‎Azibola Collins and Benjamin Silas whose combination has been a subject of discussion in the tournament scored on 64, 70 minutes respectively as well as an own goal from Rich Destiny FC to give MFM FC the deserved victory.

‎The National Youths Service Corps, NYSC FC at the Biogbolo centre pipped Ayamalem FC by a lone goal to keep their dreams of winning the tournament alive.

In the second match of the day at the Biogbolo centre, Afini FC of Amarata triumphed over Pioneers FC 5-4 on penalties after a barren draw in regulation time.

‎NDU Oilers FC at the Amassoma centre beat Saturday FC by two goals to one to book a place in the round of 32. Akpikpi Alaga put Saturday FC in front two minutes into the game. Isiaah Isaac restored parity for NDU Oilers FC on 27 minutes. Youngstar Pereladei made it 2-1 on 30 minutes to seal NDU Oilers FC victory.

‎Elsewhere, Agbere FC at the Ebedebiri centre overpowered Hensard FC by five goals to two to move a step closer to the round of 32 while Kolobiriowei FC in the second game, beat Bright Future by two goals to one to secure a place in the next round of the tournament.

‎At the Ogobiri centre, Agoro United pipped Owei FC by a lone goal. In the other tie at the same centre, Akeddei United spanked Agorogbene Global FC by two goals to nil to move into the next round.

‎Kolo Creek United at the Ogbia LGA play-offs beat Federal University Otuoke FUO Kings FC by three goals to two in an encounter decided at the Imiringi centre. Edi 1 FC of Ayakoro in the second game defeated Orashi FC 7-6 on penalties after a barren draw in regulation time.

‎Edi 1 FC will now face the winner of Movers FC and Kolo Creek United on Tuesday 31st March, 2026 in the final of the Ogbia LGA.

‎The final round of matches in Yenagoa LGA will climax on Monday 30th March, 2026 in eight different centres as the tournament train revs up in preparation to move to Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA.

‎Prosperity Cup 2026: Ruthless Akenfa FC Hammer U James FA ‎

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‎…As Hostilities Begin In Sagbama LGA

‎Akenfa FC of Akenfa and Ikolo FC of Ikolo have continued their impressive run in Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football showpiece, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, tagged the Prosperity Cup.

‎Akenfa FC at the Okordia centre
‎bashed U. James FA by eight goals to one to make a statement of intent in the tournament. Williams Robert opened the harvest of goals ten minutes into the encounter from a finely finished effort with Ebi Moses recording a hat trick for the coach Wilson Mumeya-managed side.

‎Super B FC earlier at the Okordia centre beat Tovie FC 6-5 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time to reach the next round of the tournament.

‎At the Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, BDGS centre, United Stars FC defeated Solid Stars FC 4-2 on penalties in the battle of stars to advance to the next round of the competition. Sea Side FA in the second game pipped New Chester by a lone goal to advance into the next round of the competition.

‎The National Youths Service Corps, NYSC FC, at the Biogbolo centre pipped Ohaneze Ndigbo by a lone goal while Afini FC in the last match at the centre humbled Oyis FA by three goals to one.

‎Akinima/Biogbo FC at the Igbogene centre demolished Royal FC five nil to progress to the next round of the competition. Bayelsa Medical University BMU Strikers in the second game thrashed Okotiama FC four nil, having won their protest against Okordia United.

‎Donbai United at the Kpansia centre edged out Agbura FC by two unreplied goals. Peace FC in the second game crushed Northern Strikers by four goals to one.

‎Citiboi Feeders at the Obunagha centre walloped Starlight FA by six unreplied goals to keep their hopes of winning the tournament alive. Dominion FC defeated Rich Destiny FA 4-3 on penalties after a two-all draw in normal time.

‎Playing at the Swali centre, God’s Mercy City trounced Ghen FC six goals to nil to secure qualification to the next phase of the tournament. Ikolo FC in the second game eased out Experience FC by three goals to one to continue their impressive form in the season 8 of the spectacle.

‎Federal Polytechnic, Ekowe at the Eniwari centre triumphed 6-5 on penalties over Enewari FC, after a one-all draw in regulation time. The victory moves the Ekowe side into the round of 32 in the competition.

Prosperity Cup Organizers Inaugurate Women’s Tournament Committee

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The Central Organizing Committee, COC of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, tagged the Prosperity Cup, has inaugurated a six-man committee to organize the women’s version of the tournament.

‎The committee has Ebimotimi Zuzu as chairman, veteran broadcaster, ‎Mablas Akpuluma Jnr as secretary, ‎former Director of Sports and retired Permanent Secretary, Chief Patimidi Tukuru, Atie Ebizidei, Kate Obubo and sports enthusiasts Ebi Charles are to serve as members of the committee.

‎Inaugurating the committee, Deputy Director General of the tournament, Mr. Perela Aboro urged the committee to discharge its duties with utmost responsibility, stating that the committee members were carefully selected.

‎Mr Aboro charged members of the committee to work hand in gloves with the Central Organizing Committee to ensure that the female final was in tandem with the men’s final slated for 8th of May, 2026 at the Samson Siasia Stadium.

‎According to him, the vision of the Prosperity Cup organisers was to see Bayelsa girls in the state-owned team, Bayelsa Queens and various national teams in the nation.

‎Chairman of the women’s Prosperity Cup, Mr Zuzu Ebimotimi in a remark on behalf of the other members of the committee, said the committee was committed to its new assignment, maintaining that they are focused to deliver a seamless and successful tournament.

‎He appreciated the Director General of the Prosperity Cup, Mr Ono Akpe for giving him the opportunity to serve as the chairman of the women’s tournament.

We are Committed To Expanding Interventions – NDDC Boss

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The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has restated its commitment to expanding interventions in the Niger Delta region to empower individuals, improve livelihoods, and promote development.

Speaking during the presentation of relief materials to the Omuma-Uzor community in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said that the initiative represents the Commission’s commitment to addressing the economic difficulties facing many households in the Niger Delta region.

The NDDC boss, who was represented by the NDDC Director II, Education, Health and Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejolone, stated that “The NDDC remains committed to expanding interventions that empower individuals, strengthen livelihoods and promote inclusive development. Beneficiaries are encouraged to make responsible use of these items to benefit their households.”

Ogbuku noted that the rising cost of living and limited access to basic necessities had placed significant pressure on households, especially in rural communities. “The NDDC continues to implement targeted interventions aimed at providing relief and supporting vulnerable populations,” he said.

Speaking further, the NDDC boss called on beneficiary communities to uphold peace and cooperate with government development agencies on development initiatives.

He added: “This event reinforces a fundamental principle that governance must be people-centred, responsive and compassionate.”

The NDDC Director, Abia State office, Dr Anderson Ukeh, advised the indigenes of the community to be law-abiding, obedient and dedicated. Anderson, who was represented by a Principal Manager, Mrs Ijeoma Offor, also advised them to conduct themselves well while sharing the relief materials.

The Deputy Director, Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Chioma Nwakwue, urged the community to be peaceful, cooperative, and loving as they share the relief materials. She also expressed gratitude for their show of love and support for the NDDC.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Omuma-Uzor community, Elder Felix Nwogu, commended the NDDC for responding to the community’s plea for assistance. We are truly grateful to the NDDC for this laudable intervention.

 

NDDC Begins Emergency Power Project For Headquarters Complex

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The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has commenced an emergency upgrade of the electricity supply to its headquarters complex by formally handing over the project to Income Electrix, an integrated power company.

Speaking during the handover ceremony at the NDDC headquarters, the Director of Community and Rural Development, CRD, Engr. Theophilus Alagoa, said that the project was an emergency intervention designed to connect the NDDC headquarters to the Port Harcourt Electric Distribution Company, PHED, bilateral feeder.

Alagoa, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Community and Rural Development, Mr Olorunlara Olumide, explained that the objective of the project was to link the Commission’s headquarters complex to a more reliable power source to reduce high diesel consumption and ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply as contained in a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs

He stated: “We are here in respect of an emergency work awarded to Income Electrix to connect the NDDC head office to PHED. This meeting also serves as the formal introduction and handover of the contractor to handle the project.”

He urged the contractor to meet the Commission’s expectations and promptly communicate any challenges that might arise during execution.

According to him, “the scope of work for the project includes the construction of a 33KV double circuit line tapping from Hypercity Roundabout; installation of a 1.5MVA 33/0.415 distribution substation; upgrading of the existing 500KVA 11/0.415KV transformer at the annex to 500KVA 33/0.415KV, as well as the upgrade of the 33KV feeder switchgear at the supply end.”

In his remarks, the NDDC Deputy Director of Administration and Human Resources, Engr. Erefa Alalibo assured that the project monitoring department would ensure the work was executed in line with the required standards and specifications.

Responding, the representative of Income Electrix, Mr Umo Adam, assured the Commission that the project would be delivered in line with the agreed terms and conditions. He affirmed the company’s commitment to quality and timely delivery.

The Director II, Corporate Affairs, Dr Tony Omah, emphasised the importance of proper needs assessment before the Commission embarks on any project, noting that such evaluations ensure that interventions are relevant and impactful. He stressed the need for project beneficiaries to take full ownership to ensure sustainability, while urging the contractor to maintain high standards of execution.

NDDC Supports NYSC Radio, Donates Broadcast Equipment

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The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has donated broadcast equipment to the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, to boost its capacity to communicate and enhance youth development in the country.

Speaking during the presentation of the communication equipment at the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the intervention would galvanise the NYSC’s initiative in providing a strategic platform for national integration.

A statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs noted that Ogbuku, who was represented by the Director, NDDC Liaison Office, Abuja, Mrs Mary Nwaeke, said that the NYSC plays a strategic role in bringing young people together.

According to the NDDC boss, “When you support the NYSC, you are empowering the nation because the scheme brings together youths from all parts of the country.

“Communication is very important, and we must ensure that it is done effectively. The NDDC recognises communication as a vital tool for national growth and development.

“That is why the Commission decided to make this presentation to boost the capacity of the NYSC radio station, so it can effectively engage corps members and inform the public about its activities and impact.”

He added that the NDDC was committed to identifying and addressing institutional gaps to support national development.

“NDDC steps in wherever there are gaps in society. After proper assessment, we provide the needed support to strengthen institutions and improve service delivery,” he said.

The NDDC boss explained that the intervention included a complete inverter system with a lithium battery for an uninterrupted power supply; a 2-kilowatt Italian-made, energy-efficient radio transmitter compliant with National Broadcasting Commission regulations; and the full renovation of the station’s wiring system in both recording and live studios to eliminate audio noise and enhance sound quality.

Also speaking, the Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, commended the NDDC for the donation, describing it as timely and impactful.

Nafiu, who was represented by the Director, Media, Mr Emeka Mgbemena, said the equipment would enhance operations at the NYSC radio station and improve training for corps members in broadcasting.

He described the donation as a major boost to the Scheme’s broadcasting capacity, noting that the NYSC Radio Station, which has been in operation for over four years, serves as a critical training platform for corps members.

The Director-General stated that the station is largely operated by Corps Members who acquire practical broadcasting skills while contributing to its daily operations. He further disclosed that more than 12 Corps Members who trained at the station in the past three years have secured employment with media organisations.

He assured the NDDC that the equipment would be put to effective use to ensure uninterrupted transmission and improved service delivery.

The NYSC Director-General expressed appreciation to the NDDC for the intervention and assured that the equipment would be effectively utilised to strengthen the station’s mandate to educate, inform, and entertain.

 

Prosperity Cup 2026: Ikolo FC, MFM FC, Others, Secure Big Wins

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‎‎It was goals feast in all eight centres in Yenagoa and Southern Ijaw Local Government Areas in Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament christened the Prosperity Cup.

‎A total of 72 goals, excluding penalty shootouts, were scored in Match day two in Yenagoa and Matchday three in Southern Ijaw LGAs with Swali centre producing 14 goals in a single match day averaging 3.6 goals per match across 20 matches.

‎Ikolo FC of Ikolo at the Swali centre hammered Dynamic Boys FC by 11 goals to nil, to send a clear message to other participating teams in the tournament. Prosper Dagilo, Righteous Enugu, Jesu Awudu and Noble Agah were all on the scoring sheet for the Ikolo side.

‎Izuo Gilet FC in the last match at the Swali centre defeated Dynamic Scraps Academy by three goals to nothing to keep their aspiration of winning the competition alive.

‎Jebs Int’l School at the Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, BDGS centre overpowered Stardom Life 4-2 on penalties after playing a one-all draw in regulation time while New Chester in the second match at the BDGS centre pipped Ayama FC by a lone goal, thanks to Emmanuel Akpos’ 48 minutes strike.

‎Advanced Dreams FA, last year’s finalist at the Tombia centre were slaughtered three nil by Slaughter FC, who move into the next phase of the tournament. Mountain of Fire Ministry, MFM FC in the second game massacred Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN FC eight nil with Azibola Collins recording a hat trick in the game.

‎Brazil FC at Obunagha centre walloped Premium Standard Sports Academy, Premium, STD by four goals to one. Rich Destiny FA on the other hand edged out Winchester City by three goals to one to reach the next round of the tournament.

‎Bayelsa United Feeders at the Kpansia centre pummeled Osaro FC eight nil with Yakubu Abdulrazak of Bayelsa United Feeders recording a hat trick in the encounter. Northern Strikers in the other game beat Fountain FC by three goals to two, with all Northern Strikers’ three goals coming from corner kicks.

‎Etevie FC at the Okordia centre defeated ADC Youths by two goals to one while Wilson Mumeye of Akenfa FC in the second game humbled Arizona Celtic three nil. Goals from Steven Raymond and a brace from Williams Robert on 76 and 90 minutes respectively, gave Akenfa FC the deserved win.

‎Pioneers FC at the Biogbolo centre beat Bayelsa Stars FA 3-1 on penalties after a barren draw in regulation time while Afini FC in the second game pipped Kolombia FC by a lone goal to secure qualification to the next round.

‎Mighty-Mighty FC at the Igbogene centre beat AJ Soccer 5-4 on penalties after a one-all draw in regulation time. Okordia United at the same venue whitewashed Bayelsa Medical University, BMU Strikers by four goals to nil.

‎Onyoma FC, playing at the Oporoma centre triumphed 4-3 over Otuan FC ‎on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time to seal a place in the next phase of the tournament.

‎Elsewhere, the Amassoma centres, saw Saturday FC triumphing three nil over Madagascar FC while Block 6 FC at the same centre pipped Family FC by a lone goal to secure a slim victory.

‎Krosaders FC of Peretorugbene at the Ayamasa centre triumphed, again on penalties, after a barren draw against Ayamasa City to move into the round of 32 of the competition.

‎Federal Polytechnic, Ekowe at the Eniwari centre trounced Polobubou FC by two unreplied goals to qualify for the next round of the tournament while Eniwari FC in the second game defeated Pere United of Peremabiri three nil to keep their tournament aspirations intact.

‎Matches continue on Wednesday, 25th March, 2026 in Southern Ijaw and Yenagoa LGAs as the tournament train prepares to move to Sagbama.