… As Tournament Train Moves to Sagbama LGA
Former champions, Ogboin United of Ogboinbiri have been eliminated from the 2026 edition of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, tagged the Prosperity Cup.
Onde United of Ondewari beat Ogboin United of Ogboinbiri 3-1 via penalties after a two-all draw in regulation time at the Korokorosei centre in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The victory means that Onde United have now joined Mini FC, Igoni FC, Okoroma United, Fantua FC, FUO Kings, Kolo Creek United, Orashi FC, Edi 1 FC, Movers FC of Otuasega, Krosaders FC and others to reach the round of 32.
Tournament hopeful, Rich Destiny FC at the Tombia centre defeated Northern Warriors by two goals to one to advance to the next round of the tournament. Billy Engoye put Rich Destiny in front on 37 minutes. Tobeye Patrick on 65 minutes leveled the scoreline while Daniel Tarila made it 2-1 on 88 minutes to propel Rich Destiny to the next round of the tournament.
Bayelsa State College of Nursing Sciences (BYSCONS) FC in the second game at the Tombia centre edged out Gbarain SC by two goals to one. Goals in each half from Enisuoh Oyinkepreye on 4 and 73 minutes as well as Wisdom’s 35 minutes consolation goal gave (BYSCONS) FC the deserved victory.
Eric FA at the Amassoma centre triumphed 4-3 on penalties against NDU Oilers FC after a one-all draw in regulation time to reach the next phase of the competition.
Hostilites will resume on Thursday March 27th, 2026 in seven centres in Yenagoa as the Prosperity Cup train prepares for Sagbama LGA this weekend.
Prosperity Cup 2026: Ogboin United Crash Out of Tournament
UPRL Poised to Define Future of Nigeria’s Leadership, Gov. Sule Says at Investiture as NIPR Patron
UPRL Poised to Define Future of Nigeria’s Leadership, Gov. Sule Says at Investiture as NIPR Patron
Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule says the University of Public Relations and Leadership (UPRL), a project of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) located in the State will provide a roadmap to define the future for the nation’s leadership.
Gov. Sule, a Fellow of the Institute who stated this in Abuja on Monday at his investiture as Patron of NIPR assured that the November date set aside for the project take-off, as one of the highlights of the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) will be met as construction work are being intensified at the 101-hectare site in Gudi, Akwanga local government area.
“Because the project is located by the roadside, it’s easy for me know what is happening there every day. I hold regular meetings with the engineers and I have told them that the attention of 126 countries coming for WPRF are on us. As a government, we want to leave a legacy in leadership and education, which will outlive us and that is what this university means for us”, the governor noted.
The Nasarawa chief executive commended the NIPR for choosing the state as location for the project aimed at enhancing effective governance, stressing that emerging as one of the few Nigerians with the Institute’s Fellowship and Patronship is an honour he places so much value on.
Earlier, NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku described the governor as a leader of considerate vision and foresight, applauding his support and partnership with the Institute, particularly with WPRF, which he said will position Nigeria as centre point for the advancement of responsible communication ethics in the global communication space.
He said the UPRL being established with the partnership of Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, and Leadership Advancement Foundation will be a hub for the training of transformative leaders across Africa who will use public relations as a tool to change the world.
Credit: NIPR
NDDC Promotes Culture As Unifying Force In Niger Delta
The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Niger Delta, stressing the need to continually promote the rich traditions of ethnic nationalities across the Niger Delta region.
Speaking during the Niger Delta Arts and Culture Expo in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the cultural event reflects Nigeria’s enduring strength in unity despite its diversity.
The event, with the theme: “Rhythm of the Niger Delta: Music, Dance and the Heartbeat of Our People,” brought together stakeholders and cultural groups from across the region, displaying traditional music, dance, and artistic expressions in a vibrant celebration of heritage and unity.
A statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs noted that the NDDC Managing Director, represented by the Akwa Ibom State Representative on the NDDC Board, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, described the Arts and Culture Expo as a powerful platform to celebrate the region’s rich heritage through music, dance, and indigenous expressions.
He stated: “What we have witnessed today is a clear demonstration that culture remains the soul of our people. It cannot be diminished by technology. The Niger Delta has once again shown its rich, vibrant and beautiful heritage.”
Ogbuku added that the event reinforced the bonds of love, unity, and shared identity among the people of the region, while also showcasing their appreciation for the Commission’s efforts to promote cultural integration.
He noted that the NDDC continued to gain recognition for its developmental strides, including the successful hosting of the second Niger Delta Games in Benin, Edo State, and the completion of projects across the region.
Ogbuku said further: “Our story has changed. Today, the NDDC is receiving commendation at the highest level, including President Bola Tinubu. With continued support, we can assure that the best is yet to come.”
In her remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Ambassador Amaba Ogbuku described the Expo as a powerful reminder of identity and cultural pride.
“Without culture, we are nothing. It defines who we are and reminds us of our heritage wherever we find ourselves in the world,” she said.
She urged participants to embrace unity and uphold the values that bind the people of the Niger Delta together.
Also speaking, the NDDC Director of Culture and Women Affairs at NDDC, Mrs Ahunna Imoni, said the Arts and Culture Expo highlights the region’s uniqueness and diversity.
She noted: “Culture brings us together. It tells our story, reflects our values, and connects us across generations. This event is not just about performances, but about unity, pride, and shared identity.”
Prosperity Cup 2026: Correctional Centre Team Secures Ticket To Next Round
The Okaka Correctional Centre team, Liberty FC have qualified for the next round of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, tagged the Prosperity Cup
Liberty FC crushed the Nigerian Air Force team, NAF FC by three goals to one in an encounter decided at the Okaka Correctional Centre pitch. Akpoebi Godstime put NAF FC ahead ten minutes into the game from a beautiful finish. James Ebi restored parity on 30 minutes.
Ojube Forcados and Solomon Patrick scored on 50 and 65 minutes respectively to give Liberty FC the deserved victory.
And at the Kpansia Centre, Donbai FC pipped Akwa Charity FC by a lone goal courtesy Ator Victor’s 73 minute strike to move Donbai FC to the next round of the competition, having controlled the game.
Moving Stars FC at the Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, BDGS centre beat Christ Chosen FC 5-4 on penalties after a one-all draw in regulation time while Solid Stars in the second game triumphed over Opokuma FC 11-10 on penalties after a one-all draw in normal time.
At the Biogbolo centre, Ayamalem FC edged out Dimaro FC by two goals to nil while the National Youths Service Corps, NYSC FC in the second game of the day defeated Kilimanjaro FC 4-3 on penalties having played out a barren draw in regulation time to secure passage into the next round.
Gbarain Starlet at the Igbogene centre demolished Emperor United by four goals to one to keep their dreams of winning the tournament alive. Akinima Biogbo FC in the second game, smashed Real Verified FC three nil to move into the next phase of the showpiece
Youthful FC Silina at the Obunagha centre annihilated Helaman FC by eight goals to nothing while Citiboi FC Feeders spanked FC De-Lavida two nil to correct the wrongs of their senior team who were stunned by Aperetia FC of Imiringi in the preliminary rounds at the Otuabagi centre.
Global City FC at the Okordia centre beat Old Ladies 3-1 to qualify for the next round of the tournament just as Tovie FC defeated 35 BSW FC two nil to move ahead in the competition.
At the Tombia centre, Youth FC pipped Sansiro FC by a lone goal while one of the tournament hopefuls, Rich Destiny FC pummeled Market Square FC three nil. Also, Northern Warriors edged out Golden Boys by two goals to one.
Away from Yenagoa, Eric FC at the Amassoma centre beat Titan Club House one nil. Young Elite FC in the second game claimed a one nil victory over Ayagbo FC while Southern Ijaw defending champions, Professor Nimibofa Ayawei PNA FC were bundled out of the competition after losing three nil to Efeke FC.
Onde United FC at the Korokorosei centre triumphed one nil over Ikienghebiri FC to book a place in the next round of the tournament. Former champions, Ogboin United of Ogboinbiri began their campaign on a winning note to keep expectations intact.
Hostilities will continue on Tuesday 24th March, 2026 in Yenagoa, Southern Ijaw and Ekeremor LGAs.
Niger Delta Chamber Targets $5bn Investments, 500,000 Jobs
…hosts Investment Summit in May
The Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) has unveiled plans to attract up to five billion dollars structured investments to the oil-producing region in five years.
Chairman of the NDCCITMA, Amb. Idaere Gogo Ogan, who disclosed this at a pre-summit conference ahead of the Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, said the initiative would catalyse no fewer than 500,000 direct and indirect jobs as well as spur investments and create wealth.
In a statement signed by Mr Ono K. Akpe
Consultant, Media and Sponsorship, Ambr Ogan noted that the summit with the theme: “Driving Investment, Innovation, and Industrial Growth in the Niger Delta”, slated for Port Harcourt on May 19-21, 2026, would deliberate on investment mobilisation, enterprise growth, industrial expansion, and regional coordination.
President Bola Tinubu is expected as the special guest while the Prime Minister of Barbados, the Hon Mia Amor Mottley, will be the keynote speaker.
Ogan stated that the recent Niger Delta Business Roundtable brought together policy-making leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, development institutions, and strategic stakeholders from across the nine Niger Delta states, and that the clear message from the event was for the region to transit from ambition to implementation.
Also speaking, the NDCCITMA Secretary and chairman of the summit local organising committee, Dr. Solomon Edebiri, said the economic and investment summit was a strategic initiative designed to reposition the region as a competitive hub for investment, enterprise development, and sustainable industrialisation.
Dr. Edebiri noted that the Niger Delta was known for its contribution to Nigeria’s economy through oil and gas, stressing however that its legacy lies on its diverse wealth and its untapped opportunities, which the summit seeks to highlight and unlock.
He added that the organising committee has lined up various activities to promote the event, including a road show across the Niger Delta states, in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory as well as a follow-up press conference.
Present at the press conference are Chief Kelechi Obilor Financial Secretary, (NDCCITM) Mrs, Boma Jack; Board Member (NDCCITMA), Hon Marcel Odunze; Board Member, amongst others.
Ono K. Akpe
Consultant
Media and Sponsorship
Bayelsa Monarch Hails NDDC Over Distribution Of Palliatives
The traditional ruler of Oruma Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Pere John Tacha Abara, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, for providing relief materials to alleviate the pains of flood victims in the area.
The Monarch, who spoke during the distribution of relief materials in his domain, noted that the impact of NDDC in his community and the entire Niger Delta region was laudable, describing NDDC’s intervention as capable of reducing hunger in the community.
He stated: “We are indeed excited with the relief materials that have been sent to our community. It shows that NDDC recognises that the Oruma community is a flood-prone area.
“What the NDDC has been doing for our community and the entire region is enormous, and it shows that the Commission is working in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which emphasises the need to address food insecurity in the country.”
The royal father called on his subjects and the people of the Niger Delta region to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 because of his outstanding performance in rural communities.
He allayed fears of possible hijacking of the relief packages, stating that the items would be equitably distributed to the people.
The NDDC Managing Director, who was represented by a Director in the Directorate of Education, Health and Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejoloni, observed that the decision to intervene in the flood-ravaged communities was driven by the Commission’s concern for the people.
He added that the commission’s intervention has cut across several aspects of development in the region and enjoined the people to remain law-abiding, noting that development could only take place in a rancour-free environment.
The Consultant for the programme, Mrs Egondu Esinwoke-Ogbalor, explained that the high population density and the extent of damage suffered by the people were among the factors considered before the intervention to ameliorate the situation and avert insecurity and youth restiveness.
She added that the Community Initiative for Enhanced Peace and Development was also sensitising the people on possible flooding within the year.
She reiterated that the NDDC, in partnership with her Foundation, was determined to extend the same gesture to other communities affected by natural disasters.
March 21, 2026.
Prosperity Cup 2026: Krusaders FC, Samba Boys, Bisangbene FC, Others Seal Next Round Tickets
…As Tournament Gets Underway in Southern Ijaw LGA
After the completion of the preliminary round in three local government areas in Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle, the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, also called the Prosperity Cup, the competition train has landed in Ekeremor LGA with interesting results across three centres.
Samba Boys FC at the Ayamasa centre beat Azagbene FC by three goals to two, to seal a place in the next round of the tournament. Silvester Emeka’s own goal put Azagbene FC in front on 25 minutes. Moses Aseiyeibo levelled the scoreline on 39 minutes. Daniel Jeme on 55 minutes raised Azagbene FC’s hopes to make it two goals to one.
Light Chukwuemeka on 76 minutes restored parity for Samba Boys FC but Azagbene FC’s dream of playing in the next round of the competition was dashed by Ebiye Jeremiah’s 82 minutes finish ensuring that the Azagbene side returned home empty-handed.
Former champions, Krusaders FC of Peretoru earlier pipped Lamara FC three nil, same with Ezougha FC who defeated Merriment FC on same margin.
Bisangbene FC at the Agge Centre trounced Aghoro FC by two goals to nil to secure a place in the next round of the tournament while Osunmaibio FC in the second game beat Milik FC by a lone goal.
And at the Peretorugbene centre, Oburu FC crushed Clough Creek by three goals to one to qualify for the next phase of the tournament while Dimaro FC in the last game of the day triumphed 4-3 on penalties over Peretorugbene FC, after a one-all draw in regulation time.
The train moves to Southern Ijaw LGA on Saturday, March 21st in four different centres, Oporoma, Korokorosei, Eniwari and the Amassoma centre.
Yenagoa Set to Host Rescheduled 2025 Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State will host the 2025 Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics from March 25 to April 1, 2026, in what promises to be one of the most competitive and best organized national wrestling championships in recent times.
Originally scheduled for December 10 to 20, 2025, the event was postponed following the untimely demise of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State. With the new dates now confirmed, all arrangements have been concluded for a successful championship.
The Bayelsa State Government through the Ministry of Sports Development, in collaboration with the Nigeria Wrestling Federation led by its President, Dr Bashir Adeniyi, who also serves as Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, has put in place all necessary modalities for a world class event. The strong support of sponsors and partners has further enhanced this edition, positioning it as the best so far.
All states, military and paramilitary institutions, and wrestling clubs are encouraged to submit their full contingent lists promptly. Current projections indicate participation from about 30 states and 10 clubs, underscoring the scale and significance of the championship.
A fully prepared Games Village will accommodate all participating teams, with comprehensive feeding arrangements in place to guarantee athlete welfare and optimal performance conditions.
The championship will serve as a selection platform for Nigeria’s representatives to the African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt, scheduled for late April to early May 2026.
Now in its 14th year, the Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics remains one of the longest running and most respected national championships in Nigeria, playing a vital role in talent discovery and elite athlete development.
Wrestling enthusiasts and stakeholders are invited to Yenagoa for a week of top level action as Bayelsa State hosts the nation in what promises to be a memorable celebration of wrestling excellence.
Niger Delta Investment Summit Set To Unlock Regional Opportunities
ABUJA — Plans are underway to host a major investment forum aimed at unlocking economic opportunities and accelerating sustainable development across the Niger Delta region.
The Niger Delta Investment and Economic Summit, conceived as a high-impact investment platform, is expected to bring together investors, policymakers, development partners and industry leaders to explore scalable and bankable opportunities in the oil-rich region.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to flag off the summit scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt, the River state capital.
Speaking during the inauguration of consultants for the summit, Chairman of the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA), Ideare Gogo-Ogan, described the initiative as a strategic step toward unlocking the region’s vast economic potential.
Ogan expressed confidence that the team assembled to organise the summit would deliver a world-class investment platform capable of reshaping the economic narrative of the Niger Delta. According to him, while the region possesses enormous natural resources and economic opportunities, coordinated policies and strategic investment are needed to fully harness them.
The coordinating consultant for the summit is Tony Epelle, Managing Partner of Samuelson Advisory Partners, part of the Samuelson Consulting Group. Other consultants include marketing communications firm Neo Media and Marketing, founded by Ehi Braimah, and Ono K. Akpe of Red Sapphire Nig Ltd, a public relations and events management expert.
The summit is expected to feature keynote addresses, including one by Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, alongside goodwill messages, technical sessions and plenary discussions. Other highlights will include sector-specific investment forums, policy roundtables and deal-making platforms designed to address key economic issues affecting the region.
Organisers say the summit will attract key development partners, with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) expected to play a central role as a major supporter of the initiative.
The proposed theme for the event is “Driving Investment, Innovation, and Industrial Growth in the Niger Delta.”
According to the coordinating consultants, the summit aims to deliver measurable outcomes such as policy commitments, investment deals and strategic partnerships that will accelerate development across the region.
Key sectors expected to dominate discussions include energy transition, optimisation of the oil and gas value chain, agriculture, the blue economy, infrastructure development, manufacturing, technology and digital innovation, environmental sustainability and human capital development.
Organisers also plan to emphasise inclusive growth, peace-building, climate resilience and economic diversification across the Niger Delta, while encouraging stronger support for micro, small and medium-scale enterprises and youth-driven innovation.
NIPR Urges PR Practitioners to Place Reputation Over Visibility
… As Institute Welcomes 421 New Members
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has urged public relations practitioners to prioritise reputation which it described as a capital asset over visibility, warning that virality without context becomes a weak asset.
These were the words of the President, Chairman of Council of the Institute, Dr. Ike Neliaku on Thursday when he formally inducted 421 new members into the body in Abuja. “In today’s media environment, visibility is not victory. You can be visible everywhere, but you are not victorious in your context. Eloquence without credibility is a fragile asset”, he stated.
Dr. Neliaku who spoke in reference to a recent Al Jazeera interview by the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, emphasised that while procedures, processes and structures of doing things must be followed, he insisted that those who speak for Nigeria must also wear the badge of reputation ambassadors.
While arguing that the strategic management of Nigeria’s reputation requires a strong character of credibility, he said that irrespective of how strong a message could be, it can be corrupt and undermined by a weak messenger, which could affect the expected outcome. “Credibility goes before content. It is who you are that will speak for you even before you come into the room. That is why we talk about reputation”, he noted.
The NIPR boss therefore called on the new members of the Institute to build a credibility that stands the test of time, noting that credibility overcomes charisma.
In his goodwill message, the Secretary General of African Public Relations Association (APRA), Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan told the new inductees that every behaviour is a communicative action subject to any interpretation, urging them to be cautious of their conducts.
Delivering his induction orientation lecture, a Member of NIPR Governing Council, Comrade Ini Ememobong called on the new members of the Institute to adopt creative means to contribute meaningfully in the leadership process in their respective organisations as against being mere announcers of management decisions.
Source: NIPR