By Favour Bibaikefie

ABUJA – The National Association of Ijaw Students (NAIS), Northern Nigeria/Abuja Chapter, has honoured renowned peace advocate and youth development champion, Amb. Ebibolokaemi Paul Eregbene, popularly known as Ebi Lagos, with an Award of Recognition for his outstanding contributions to nation-building, youth empowerment, and the promotion of peace and unity.

The award was presented during the maiden edition of the King of Owigiri Music Night Remembrance, held at No. 16 Alexandria Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement signed by the National Convener of NAIS Northern Nigeria/Abuja Chapter, Comrade Blessing Iyorakpo, and made available to IduwiniVoice, the Association said the honour was in recognition of Amb. Ebi Lagos’ unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable peace, harmonious coexistence, and national integration among Ijaw people residing in Abuja and across Northern Nigeria.

According to the statement, Amb. Ebi Lagos has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership through initiatives that promote peaceful relationships among diverse Ijaw communities and other ethnic and cultural groups, while inspiring hope and strengthening national unity.

The Association further commended him for his remarkable contributions to youth development and human capacity building through mentorship, advocacy, and empowerment programmes that have positively impacted the lives of many young Nigerians.

NAIS also acknowledged his immense support for students from the Niger Delta, particularly those of Ijaw extraction, noting that his financial assistance, mentorship, promotion of entrepreneurship, encouragement of skills acquisition, and commitment to community development have earned him widespread admiration across the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Association, the National Convener, Comrade Blessing Iyorakpo, described the award recipient as a symbol of selfless service whose humanitarian efforts transcend ethnic, regional, and religious boundaries.

“Amb. Ebi Lagos has distinguished himself as a visionary leader and bridge-builder whose dedication to peace, youth empowerment, and national unity continues to transform lives across the country. His remarkable service to humanity, particularly among youths of the Niger Delta and the people of Northern Nigeria, makes him a worthy recipient of this prestigious Award of Recognition,” Iyorakpo stated.

The Association noted that recognising individuals who have dedicated themselves to promoting peace, unity, and youth development would inspire others to embrace selfless leadership and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s growth and development.

NAIS Northern Nigeria/Abuja Chapter congratulated Amb. Ebibolokaemi Paul Eregbene on the well-deserved recognition and prayed for greater wisdom, strength, and success as he continues his service to humanity and the nation.

The Personal Assistant to the DESOPADEC Commissioner representing the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality, Hon. Benard Okoh, heartily congratulates Dr. Doubra Okotete on his well-deserved victory at the just concluded Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide General Elections held on Saturday, July 11.

Hon. Okoh described the outcome of the election as a clear reflection of the confidence reposed in Dr. Okotete by Ijaw youths across the globe, noting that his emergence is a testament to his proven leadership, commitment to youth development, and unwavering dedication to the progress of the Ijaw nation.

He expressed optimism that Dr. Okotete’s wealth of experience, vision, and passion for service would usher in a new era of unity, purposeful leadership, and greater opportunities for Ijaw youths. He urged all contestants and stakeholders to set aside differences and rally behind the new leadership in the interest of the Ijaw nation.

Hon. Okoh further prayed for God’s wisdom, strength, and divine guidance upon Dr. Okotete as he assumes the enormous responsibility of leading one of the foremost socio-cultural youth organizations in the Niger Delta.

“On behalf of myself and my family, I warmly congratulate you on this remarkable achievement. May your tenure be marked by peace, progress, inclusiveness, and transformational leadership that will strengthen the unity and aspirations of Ijaw youths worldwide,” he said.

Once again, congratulations to Dr. Doubra Okotete on this historic victory, and best wishes for a successful and impactful tenure.

By Rukevwe Odeh

Nollywood actor Tenkobo has publicly reacted to the ongoing controversy surrounding fundraising efforts for ailing comic star John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.

Tenkobo expressed displeasure with Mr Ibu’s wife over her continued online appeals for financial assistance, suggesting that the situation has been mishandled and should not be repeatedly taken to social media.

The actor’s comments come amid ongoing debates within the entertainment industry about how funds donated for the treatment of sick actors are managed, as well as concerns about transparency and public fundraising practices.

In recent times, Mr Ibu’s health struggles have attracted widespread attention, leading to multiple donation drives from fans, colleagues, and well-wishers. However, the management and distribution of such contributions have also sparked disagreements among family members and industry stakeholders.

While some supporters argue that online fundraising remains necessary due to rising medical costs, others believe that continuous public appeals can create misunderstandings and controversy.

The latest remarks by Tenkobo add to the growing conversation around accountability and proper coordination when raising funds for entertainers facing health challenges.