By Rukevwe Odeh

A broad coalition of political leaders, traditional rulers, media stakeholders and civil society advocates across the Niger Delta has applauded Congress TV/Newspaper on its fifth anniversary, describing the media organisation as a shining example of resilience, credibility and people-centred journalism.

The commendations came during the newspaper’s anniversary celebration, where speakers highlighted the organisation’s contributions to promoting transparency, amplifying grassroots voices and advancing development issues within the Niger Delta despite the difficult operating environment facing the Nigerian media.

Among those who paid glowing tributes were the National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali; President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Chief (Barr.) Macdonald Igbadiwei; Chairman of the anniversary ceremony and former Chairman of the Egbema/Gbaramatu Development Foundation, Amb. Jude Ebitimi Ukori (JP); National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Chief Sheriff Mulade, PhD; Delta State DESOPADEC Commissioner representing the Ijaw ethnic nationality, Hon. Spencer Okpoye; retired Nigerian Air Force officer, Wing Commander Peter Yerindi Biakpara; former Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture, Chief Akpos Meze; Bayelsa State Director of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL); Mrs. Eunice Ngozi; Hon. Ebisinne Kofee Amasuomo; and several other eminent personalities.

In their goodwill messages, the dignitaries praised Congress TV/Newspaper for remaining steadfast in its mission of delivering factual, balanced and development-driven journalism over the past five years. They noted that the organisation had earned public confidence through investigative reporting, advocacy journalism and its consistent focus on issues affecting the Niger Delta.

Special commendation was also directed to the Publisher and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Comrade Ozobo Austin, whose leadership was described as visionary, courageous and instrumental in building a media platform that continues to give ordinary citizens a voice while promoting accountability and good governance.

In his official congratulatory message, PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Igali, described the anniversary as a significant milestone reflecting perseverance, institutional growth and determination.

He commended the management of Congress Newspaper for sustaining the vision despite numerous obstacles, expressing confidence that the organisation would record even greater achievements in the years ahead under the leadership of Comrade Ozobo Austin.

One of the major highlights of the celebration was the announcement by the President of the Ijaw National Congress, Chief Macdonald Igbadiwei, that Congress Newspaper had been adopted as one of the official media platforms of the apex Ijaw socio-cultural organisation.

Chief Igbadiwei praised the newspaper for consistently championing causes affecting the Niger Delta and promoting the collective interests of the Ijaw people through responsible journalism. He described the publisher as a principled advocate whose dedication to justice, development and the Niger Delta struggle mirrors the legacy of renowned Nigerian nationalist and media pioneer, Ernest Ikoli.

Chairman of the occasion, Ambassador Jude Ukori, equally lauded the newspaper’s commitment to ethical journalism, saying the platform has become an important voice for indigenous communities in the Niger Delta. He expressed optimism that with sustained support, the organisation would attain greater national and international recognition.

Similarly, Chief Sheriff Mulade stated that although Congress TV/Newspaper is only five years old, its impact and professional standards reflect the maturity of a much older institution. He commended its balanced reporting, investigative journalism and growing national relevance, assuring the organisation of continued support as it expands its reach beyond Nigeria.

Representing DESOPADEC Commissioner Hon. Spencer Okpoye, Mr. Raphael Olomieghene reaffirmed the commission’s confidence in the media organisation, pledging continued support towards strengthening its operations and expanding its influence globally.

Retired Wing Commander Peter Yerindi Biakpara also drew applause after announcing his intention to contribute part of his pension towards supporting Congress TV/Newspaper over the next two decades. He described the organisation as an indispensable platform for promoting the aspirations of the Niger Delta and encouraged other well-meaning individuals to invest in its continued growth.

Other stakeholders, including General Godstime Ogidigba, Ambassador Truston Gbenekama, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF), Human Rights Congress, Constitutional Conference (CONFAB), Ijaw Women Rights Protection Forum (IWRPF), Meinbutus and several community leaders, also congratulated the organisation on reaching the milestone.

They commended Congress TV/Newspaper for its courage, professionalism and unwavering dedication to truth, justice and public service, expressing confidence that the organisation would continue to grow into one of Nigeria’s leading media institutions while remaining committed to promoting peace, development and the collective interests of the Niger Delta.