The Executive Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Council, Olorogun Dr. Lucky Avweromre, has donated new desks to Eghereka Primary School in Ewu-Otor.
The donation was prompted by a viral video showing some pupils at Eghereka Primary School sitting on the floor, highlighting a shortage of classroom furniture.
While the video drew widespread attention, it coincided with ongoing efforts by councilors from each ward, who had been mobilized earlier to provide chairs and tables to primary schools as part of the council’s priority projects for the outgoing fiscal year.
Mr. Aaron Joseph Okenaberhie, the Council’s Supervisor for Education, formally presented the desks to the school’s management on behalf of the council chairman on Friday, December 12, 2025, urged the school authorities and community leaders to ensure proper care and maintenance of the newly supplied furniture.
Commenting on the situation that led to the lack of desks at Eghereka Primary, Mr. Okenaberhie described it as an act of deliberate sabotage.
He emphasized the need for relevant community stakeholders to prevent negligence and vandalism of government properties going forward.
The desks were received by Mr. Samuel Abido, Local Education Authority (LEA) Secretary, represented by Mrs. Erhugberume Juliana, and Miss Ojo Helen, who represented the school’s headmaster.
Comrade Daniel Etaga who was also on ground, expressed gratitude to the council chairman for his prompt response in addressing the needs of the pupils at Eghereka Primary School.
Also, Hon. Henry Gbejimor, personal assistant to the council chairman, encouraged the school management to put the desks to good use to benefit the pupils.
Key All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders from Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, on Friday gathered at the country home of Ughelli North LGA Chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, in Uduere to expressed a firm commitment to ensure the success of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and all APC candidates in the 2027 general elections.
The landmark meeting—marked as the first since the unification of political structures—brought together prominent party figures who collectively affirmed messages of solidarity, unity, and determination to achieve electoral success.
At the event, APC founding member in Delta State and key leader in Ughelli North, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, hailed Governor Oborevwori’s and the entire PDP’s integration into the APC as “the dawn of a new era.”
He emphasized that the merger had strengthened the party’s position for political dominance.
Emerhor commended the strong sense of unity currently evident within the party and urged both elected officials and political appointees to render full support as the APC prepares for forthcoming elections.
The meeting’s host and Ughelli North LGA Chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, remarked that the party was gearing up for the 2026 electoral season with renewed vigor, stressing APC’s determination to dominate the political landscape in Ughelli North.
Egbo encouraged members to persist in recruiting new supporters, highlighting that Ughelli North holds the largest voter population in Delta State.
He noted that the unity demonstrated at the gathering sent a clear signal of loyalty to both President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori.
“As a party, we must all work together to ensure the victory of every APC candidate in the 2027 elections,” he declared.
Also, Ughelli North APC Chairman, Hon. Samuel Evwighono, described the occasion as historic, pointing out that it was the first time the entire party structure had assembled since the merger.
Evwighono shared that his appointment as chairman was “miraculous” and accepted “by grace,” noting that one of his initial goals was to reconcile dissatisfied members and foster greater party unity.
However, he raised concerns regarding the low number of Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) collected from the INEC office in the area and urged party leaders to encourage full participation in the ongoing voter registration exercise.
Chief Press Secretary to the Delta State Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, appealed for unity and unwavering support for President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, emphasizing that Ughelli North, as the governor’s hometown, must spearhead efforts to strengthen the APC.
Other participants included Prof. Sam Ibodje; Hon. Matthew Omonade, representing Ughelli North Constituency I in the Delta State House of Assembly; Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Onoriode Aguofure; Surveyor Terry Noah; and all 11 APC ward chairmen.
They collectively affirmed their loyalty and commitment to the party, vowing to deliver electoral success for all APC candidates in 2027.
The meeting concluded with renewed enthusiasm as party members pledged to consolidate the APC’s influence ahead of the upcoming elections.
Our attention has been drawn to the statement made by Mr. Zik Gbemre, dated December 7th 2025, in which he attempted to discredit the rightful position of Chief Emuoboh Gbagi and to distort the facts concerning the family of the late Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi. Observably, Mr. Zik Gbemre appears to have been co-opted by his wife who has portrayed herself long before now immediately preceding the demise of Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, as having been hired by Hon. Justice Sybil Gbagi, to unjustifiably, but virulently attack the person of Chief Emuoboh Gbagi. While it may not be desirable to join issues and trade words with Mr. and Mrs. Zik Gbemre, their actions and roles of busybodies crying more than the bereaved, which they have arrogated to themselves, and which with respect to say the least, unfortunate compel this rejoinder. For the avoidance of doubt, we hereby set the records straight, both in law and in Urhobo custom:
This response is grounded in Urhobo customary law, Nigerian statutory law (including the Marriage Act, Evidence Act, and Companies and Allied Matters Act), judicial precedents, and verifiable facts about the Gbagi family structure. The following points systematically address and refute Mr. Gbemre’s assertions, affirming Chief Emuoboh Gbagi’s rightful position and protecting the integrity of the late Kenneth Gbagi’s legacy.
(i) Evelyn’s Status as First Wife: Separation Does Not Constitute Divorce
Mr. Gbemre’s claim that Evelyn Gbagi, mother of Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, is a “former wife” due to her separation and alleged remarriage to a Mr. Turner Darryl is baseless and legally incorrect. Under Nigerian law, specifically the Marriage Act (Cap. M6 LFN 2004), a statutory marriage remains valid until dissolved by a court-issued decree absolute, as affirmed in Obusez v. Obusez (2007) 10 NWLR (Pt. 1043) 430. Separation, whether prolonged or not, does not terminate a marriage in the absence of judicial intervention. Evelyn and Kenneth Gbagi were married under both statutory and customary rites, with no evidence of divorce proceedings or a decree absolute. Urhobo customary law, as recognised in Eshiet v. Eshiet (2001) 4 NWLR (Pt. 702) 162, similarly upholds the validity of a prior marriage unless formally dissolved.
Allegations of bigamy are speculative and lack substantiation under the Evidence Act (Sections 82-90), which requires concrete proof to challenge marital status. Evelyn remains Kenneth Gbagi’s first and legal wife, entitled to reside in the family home and enjoy spousal rights under Section 18 of the Married Women’s Property Act and Urhobo customs, which protect the principal wife from eviction post-husband’s death. Mr. Gbemre’s suggestion to “settle” Evelyn elsewhere violates these legal and cultural protections, constituting the true taboo.
(ii) Evelyn as Mother of Eight Children and Legally Recognised First Wife
Mr. Gbemre’s attempt to diminish Evelyn’s status by implying she is a concubine or “former wife” ignores documented evidence. Evelyn is the mother of eight children by Kenneth Gbagi, including Chief Emuoboh, and is the first and legally recorded wife in all official documentation, including marriage certificates, family registries, and corporate records. Under the Legitimacy Act (Cap. L6 LFN 2004) and Urhobo customary law, as affirmed in Ukeje v. Ukeje (2014) 11 NWLR (Pt. 1418) 384, all children born within a valid marriage are legitimate heirs with equal inheritance rights, irrespective of their mother’s designation as wife or “osen.”
The Supreme Court in Ukeje struck down discriminatory practices but upheld equality among legitimate heirs, reinforcing Evelyn’s children’s rights, with Emuoboh as the eldest gate. Kenneth Gbagi himself introduced Emuoboh as his senior son, a fact verifiable by family members, the public and consistent with the Evidence Act’s presumption of legitimacy (Section 165). Mr. Gbemre’s challenge to Emuoboh’s seniority lacks legal or cultural grounding and disregards the burden of proof required to contest legitimacy.
(iii) Evelyn’s Contributions to Kenneth’s Business Empire vs. Sybil’s Exclusion
Mr. Gbemre’s narrative omits Evelyn’s significant role in Kenneth Gbagi’s business empire, which underscores her legal and equitable status as the first wife. Evelyn served as a Director and shareholder in several of Kenneth’s companies particularly GKO Properties Limited, with her contributions documented in Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) filings pursuant to the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020 (Sections 271-279). These filings recognise spousal contributions to marital property as joint assets, as seen in Awojugbagbe Light Industries Ltd. v. Chinukwe (1995) 4 NWLR (Pt. 390) 379.
In contrast, Hon. Justice Sybil Gbagi, a recent customary wife—akin to an “osen” or concubine in Urhobo parlance—played no role in building these investments and was never included as a director or shareholder. Kenneth, a seasoned lawyer, deliberately excluded Sybil from these corporate structures, reflecting her secondary status. Under Urhobo customs and equitable principles, Sybil’s lack of contribution limits her claims to personal maintenance, not proprietary interests, reinforcing Evelyn’s foundational role.
(iv) Sybil’s Lawsuit as a Cultural and Legal Abomination
Mr. Gbemre’s defence of Hon. Justice Sybil Gbagi’s lawsuit to claim the Abuja residence and Oginibo country home is misguided and contradicts Urhobo customary law. As a childless customary wife, Sybil’s attempt to assert next-of-kin status over ancestral and communal properties violates Urhobo traditions, which, per The Urhobo People by Ogheneakpobor (2006) and Lewis v. Bankole (1909) 1 NLR 82, reserve custodianship for the senior legitimate son or principal heirs. Chief Emuoboh Gbagi occupies this role lawfully and customarily.
The Oginibo ancestral compound and permanent family homes in Abuja are not for personal ownership, but by custom remain under the custodianship of the senior son for the benefit of the entire family. Such claims by a non-procreative wife are taboo, disrupting ancestral lines. Any attempt by Sybil, George, or Michael to appropriate these properties for themselves is contrary to both Urhobo custom and the equitable distribution of inheritance. Sybil’s lawsuit is frivolous and outrightly an overreach. Publicly exhibiting this lawsuit, as Mr. Gbemre suggests, would expose its cultural and legal invalidity, not Emuoboh’s actions.
(v) Emuoboh’s Legitimate Seniority and the Ulterior Motives of Sybil’s Supporters
Chief Emuoboh Gbagi’s resistance to Mr. Gbemre’s claims is rooted in Urhobo customs taught him by his father, Kenneth, and affirmed by the head of the Gbagi family who recognises Emuoboh as the senior son, as introduced by Kenneth during his lifetime. Chief Emuoboh Gbagi was introduced personally by his father during his lifetime to the family and the Urhobo community as the senior son and custodian of the family compound. This recognition carries full weight under Urhobo custom.
By contrast, George and Michael—now being packaged by Sybil—were never declared or introduced by Kenneth as biological/senior sons respectively during his lifetime. In fact, Mr. Gbemre may pretend not to be aware that George contested for the position of House of Assembly member in Ethiope East Constituency in the 2023 general elections in the name of GEORGE OGHENEKEVWE EMUERO under the platform of Social Democratic Party (SDP). Where doubts exist as in this instance, DNA testing can be undertaken, but even if proven, they take their place after the last recognised child, as Urhobo tradition requires that only sons openly acknowledged by the father during his lifetime may assume ancestral leadership.
In conclusion, Zik Gbemre’s publication is misleading, defamatory, and a distortion of both law and Urhobo custom. The facts remain:
– Evelyn is the first and legal wife, mother of eight children, and long-standing partner in Kenneth’s business life.
– Chief Emuoboh is the recognised senior son and custodian of the family homes.
– Sybil, while not denied benefits, has no right to appropriate the entirety of Kenneth’s estate, especially as she bore no children for him.
– Attempts by Sybil, George, and Michael to claim corporate assets or seize ancestral homes amount to greed, conspiracy, and violation of custom.
The Gbagi family stands firmly on the side of truth, law, and custom, and will resist any misrepresentation or unlawful attempt to distort the legacy of late Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ughelli Correspondents Chapel, conducted the inauguration of its freshly elected executive members on Thursday, to lead the organization for the next three years.
The new officers were tasked with maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards of journalism.
Among those sworn in were Comrade Mathias Ogbagah as Chairman, Comrade Moses Omovevah as Vice Chairman, and Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala as Assistant Secretary.
Comrades Monica Ogbaudu and Mamuzo Efidhere are expected to take their oaths during the upcoming Congress.
The oath-taking ceremony was officiated by Comrade Josephine Omoridion, Acting Secretary of the NUJ Delta State Council.
In his acceptance address, Chairman Mathias Ogbagah assured members of his commitment to the union’s constitution and pledged to ensure inclusivity throughout his leadership tenure.
He called on all members to rally behind the executive, stressing that their collective efforts would build upon previous accomplishments.
Comrade Ogbagah also cautioned against any conduct that could tarnish the union’s reputation or undermine its integrity.
He remarked, “Avoid actions that could harm the union’s image. Always maintain objectivity in reporting.”
Chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, encouraged the new executive to consistently uphold journalistic ethics and urged all members to operate with unity and inclusiveness.
Speaking earlier, the immediate past Chairman of NUJ Ughelli Correspondents Chapel, Olorogun Sunday Apah, described his tenure as both an honor and a significant learning experience.
He expressed gratitude for the trust bestowed upon him by the members when he was elected.
He noted, “The achievements we made were built on the foundation of your cooperation, support, and dedication. Together, we overcame various challenges—some expected, others unforeseen—through perseverance and a shared commitment to professionalism.
“Our advocacy for journalists’ welfare, defense of press freedom, and efforts to enhance journalistic standards in Ughelli have been steady and impactful.
“I take pride in the projects we completed, such as securing and furnishing a new secretariat, installing a signpost, and displaying portraits of former chairmen. These successes were made possible by your active involvement and teamwork.
“I extend special thanks to our executive team and committee for their dedication, which made the journey fulfilling.
“As I pass the leadership to Comrade Ogbagah, I urge everyone to continue supporting our Chapel with the same zeal. Let us remain united, principled, and courageous as we pursue ethical and truthful journalism.
“Rest assured, I remain committed to supporting the growth and progress of the NUJ Ughelli Correspondents Chapel,” he concluded.
The inauguration event attracted prominent NUJ members from Ughelli and surrounding chapters, including Comrades Pere Botu and Akpokona Omafuaire.
The Light of the World Mission Church will hold its 2025 convention from December 12 to 14, promising positivity in the lives of attendees.
In a statement issued by the General Overseer, His Grace Archbishop Jackson Ejiroghene Emake, and the Presiding Bishop of the church, His Lordship, Bishop Dr. Harrison Obiogho, it was said that the convention’s expectations include salvation, miracles, healing, deliverance, and much more.
They noted that the convention, with the theme “Greater Glory” taken from 2 Corinthians 3:18, will feature other anointed men of God.
The event will hold at The Light City, Km 2 Eghwu-Okparabe Road, Eghwu Town, Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State by 8am (Morning Session) and 5pm (Evening Session).
The people of Udu, Urhobo, Delta State, and the nation at large have been called upon to prepare for an unforgettable celebration as the historic community of Aladja in the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State gears up for an extraordinary cultural extravaganza.
In a statement issued jointly by Barr. Richard Mofe-Damijo, Chairman of the Planning Committee; Chief Dr. Richard Tiki Iyede, Secretary; Prince Ibrahim Dumuje, President General of Aladja Leaders of Thought; Chief Engr. Paulson Okobiebie, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee; and Hon. Kabedje Dennis Etabuko, Secretary of the LOC, it was announced that the event will take place from December 19 to 21, 2025.
According to the committee, “The vibrant streets of Aladja will burst into life with dazzling colours, pulsating rhythms, and a powerful message of unity at the much-anticipated ‘Aladja Cultural Renaissance for Peace Festival.’
“The thrilling three-day event, themed ‘Renaissance for Peace,’ aims to ignite a cultural rebirth, strengthen community bonds, and proudly showcase the rich traditions of the Aladja people to the world.
“The festival will kick off on Friday morning at 9:00 a.m. with a magnificent parade starting from Aladja Town Hall. The procession will weave through Udu communities amid extensive live media coverage, including a World Press Conference designed to broadcast the festival’s powerful vision of peace and unity.
“Saturday promises even more excitement as the festivities resume at 9:00 a.m. with a grand cultural procession from Aladja Waterside to Evwrirhe Primary School Field.
“Attendees will dazzle in vibrant traditional costumes: Owhorhu (white top on red wrapper), Izagbo (white top on yellow wrapper), and Uloho (white top on blue wrapper), each symbolizing a proud heritage.
“The day will be filled with stunning displays of cultural prowess, featuring the exhilarating Udje Aladja traditional dance, fierce tug-of-war contests, the mesmerizing Ugogolodi performance, and electrifying live concerts by celebrated artists like Sir Juju & Udjabor Jr, Negheneghen Jr, and others.
“Masquerade displays and other indigenous festivities promise to captivate every audience member.
“The grand finale on Sunday will begin with a heartfelt thanksgiving service at 10:00 a.m., followed by a fun-filled novelty football match pitting Young Ladies against Old Men in a spirited showdown.
“As night falls, the festival will move to Dekot Resort at Cabham Hotel for an epic party beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until dawn.
“Expect an electrifying lineup of performances from top comedians, musicians, and Nollywood stars handpicked by the legendary actor Barrister Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD),” the statement added.
The committee urges the public not to miss this monumental cultural revival, as Aladja is set to illuminate the heart of Delta State with a spectacular festival of peace, pride, and heritage.
The member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Rev’d Francis Ejiroghene Waive, has urged the people of Delta Central Senatorial District to tackle the declining rates of voter registration and electoral participation in the area.
Waive made the call on December 7th, 2025, during the well-attended Delta Central APC Stakeholders meeting held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun.
In his address, Rt. Hon. Waive emphasized the urgent necessity for all eligible voters in Delta Central to embrace the ongoing voter registration exercise.
He warned that low registration and turnout undermines the district’s influence in elections and could lead to weakened representation at both state and federal levels.
Waive stressed that a robust voter base is vital to ensure that the voices of Delta Central residents are heard and their interests properly advocated.
He further highlighted that engaging fully in the voter registration process is the first step toward reversing years of political apathy and disengagement within the district.
Waive appealed to party leaders, community elders, youth groups, and the general populace to mobilize efforts at the grassroots level to encourage wider participation in the registration drive.
He noted that every registered voter adds strength to the democratic fabric of the area and is crucial for the continuity of progress and development.
He reminded the stakeholders that voter registration is not merely a bureaucratic exercise but an essential instrument for shaping governance and determining leadership.
He called on stakeholders to view the ongoing registration as a critical opportunity to reclaim the political relevance of Delta Central by voting massively for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The gathering attracted widespread participation from party leaders across wards, local government areas, and the senatorial district.
Notable attendees included Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central District in the Senate; Chief Festus Keyamo (SAN), Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development; alongside other federal appointees.
Key figures and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Delta Central Senatorial District, on Sunday gathered at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, for a strategic meeting, where they pledged their unwavering allegiance to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
The event brought together senior government officials, party executives, leaders, and grassroots mobilizers to promote unity, discipline, and internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Discussions centered on strengthening the party’s organizational structure, enhancing cooperation across all levels, and preparing for what participants described as a pivotal political year.
A motion expressing total loyalty from the Delta Central APC members to President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori was moved and seconded by Chief Andrew Oru.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Olorogun Festus Keyamo, SAN, praised President Tinubu’s achievements in improving national security and economic stability.
Keyamo noted, “Security is improving across various parts of Nigeria,” attributing this to the President’s renewed dedication to tackling insecurity.
He also lauded Governor Oborevwori for extensive infrastructure developments across Delta State, describing the governor’s efforts as unparalleled.
The minister encouraged party members to remain united and resolute as APC congresses approach, warning aspirants that party nominations would not be decided “from Abuja” without the support of grassroots leaders.
He stressed that loyalty, internal unity, and respect for party structures are essential for electoral success.
Reflecting on Delta State’s political journey, APC State Chairman Elder Omeni Sobotie highlighted the strategic shift from the PDP to the APC.
Sobotie emphasized the need for genuine grassroots involvement and the participation of seasoned elders, urging members to stand united and remain resilient against political challenges. He expressed confidence in a decisive victory.
Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Chairman of the Delta Central Senatorial District APC, cautioned against indiscipline, factionalism, and fragmented party structures, referring to Delta Central as the “political powerhouse” of the state’s APC.
Akpeki stated, “Indiscipline, especially among certain local government and ward executives, remains a significant challenge.
“Delta State APC recognizes only one leader, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State. Alternative loyalties are unacceptable.”
He unveiled plans to reinforce party unity, including instituting mandatory monthly senatorial meetings across the eight local government areas and creating a Delta Central APC Caucus Committee responsible for strategic planning, conflict resolution, mobilisation, and performance oversight.
“Our mission is critical, and the stakes are too high for discord. Delta Central APC must function as a united family with one structure, leadership, direction, and goal: victory in 2027,” he asserted.
Senator Ede Dafinone (representing Delta Central), Hon Ejiro Waive (Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency), NEXIM Bank Executive Director Stella Okotete, Chief Solomon Igrakpata, and Chief Andrew Oru echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of unity within the APC.
Local Government APC Chairmen at the meeting unanimously pledged their commitment to securing maximum votes for President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori, and all APC candidates in the upcoming 2027 elections.
As the meeting concluded, participants reaffirmed their resolve to transform Delta Central APC into a disciplined, united, and formidable political force capable of achieving sweeping victories in 2027.
Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, First Lady of Delta State, on Tuesday, officially opened the newly completed Tobore Oborevwori Cottage Hospital in Ughelli North Local Government Area.
She described the facility as a “symbol of hope, healing, and compassion” for the local community.
The inauguration ceremony, held on December 2, 2025, marked a significant achievement in the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services in the area, led by Local Government Chairman Olorogun Jaro Egbo. Chairman Egbo noted that the hospital is part of a broader initiative to provide accessible, affordable, and dependable medical care to residents of Ughelli North.
In a heartfelt address, the First Lady expressed sincere appreciation to the local government for naming the hospital in her honour, emphasizing that the recognition reflects appreciation for her efforts toward the wellbeing of the people of Delta State.
“It warms my heart to see my small contributions being acknowledged and valued. It feels truly special to be home,” she remarked.
She praised Chairman Egbo and his team for their dedication to overcoming challenges in providing quality healthcare services, highlighting how the project aligns with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to development centered on people’s needs.
Deaconess Oborevwori also commended her husband’s reforms in the state health sector, noting recent achievements such as the reduction of dialysis fees from ₦75,000 to ₦40,000, the introduction of new dialysis and CT scan machines in government hospitals, and the ongoing refurbishment of 150 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state’s 25 Local Government Areas.
“God will continue to support the governor in achieving even greater milestones. His efforts are evident,” she affirmed.
Sharing details of her humanitarian initiatives, the First Lady revealed that her You Mata Charity Foundation recently organized a free medical outreach targeting children with special needs in Ughelli. The event provided medical treatments, wheelchairs, and assistive devices.
She recalled a touching moment during the outreach when over ₦8.1 million was spontaneously raised to support a mother of triplets, describing it as “a testament to God’s blessings.”
She further pledged to extend similar outreach programs to the regions of Delta North and Delta South.
In his remarks, Hon. Jaro Egbo, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, explained that the establishment of the cottage hospital stems from his administration’s strategic plan to reinforce local healthcare infrastructure.
“Healthcare must be accessible to all, not just a select few,” he stated.
Egbo expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for creating a conducive environment for progress and acknowledged that the “Renewed Hope For MORE” agenda has underpinned many projects, including this hospital.
He also thanked the First Lady for inaugurating the facility, describing her as a compassionate figure whose dedication continues to inspire residents of Ughelli North.
Egbo appealed to the community to safeguard the hospital against vandalism, emphasizing that its long-term success relies on collective ownership and support.
Chief Miller Uloho, chair of the Ughelli North Local Government Advisory Committee and chairman of the event, praised Governor Oborevwori for his outstanding leadership, citing the governor’s effective resolution of longstanding land acquisition disputes in Osubi, which threatened the airport project.
He called the governor “a naturally gifted leader,” noting that he was honored with a seat on the inaugural flight that launched operations at Osubi Airport.
Uloho also commended Chairman Egbo’s performance, encouraging the continuation of development efforts, and appealed to the First Lady to ensure the cottage hospital remains well-maintained, adequately funded, and fully operational.
Dr. Tega Ighovo, Executive Secretary of the Ughelli North Primary Healthcare Development Agency, confirmed that the hospital is outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment, including an ambulance and diagnostic tools, positioning it as a referral center for primary healthcare clinics throughout the Local Government Area.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has issued a firm warning to international oil companies (IOCs), service providers and regulators, declaring that Nigeria has entered a new era of strict, measurable and verifiable enforcement of local content laws.
Delivering his address at the 14th Annual Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the lawmaker said the days of “paper compliance” with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, the Nigeria First Policy, and Presidential Executive Order No. 5 are over.
The theme of this year’s gathering, “Securing Investments, Strengthening Local Content, and Scaling Energy Production,” he noted, could not have been more timely as Nigeria seeks to consolidate gains in local content development and reposition the energy sector for sustainable growth.
He was joined at the forum by members of his committee Vice Chairman Sen. Ede Dafinone, Sen. Abdul Ningi, Sen. Sharafadeen Abiodun Ali, and Sen. Victor Umeh, alongside top government officials, captains of industry, and international partners.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership to reposition Nigeria’s economic priorities toward empowering local industries and workers, describing local content development as central to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Expressing deep concern over what he described as a “systemic failure” in adhering to local content requirements, the senator lamented that Nigeria remains far behind in local capacity development despite decades of oil exploration and the enactment of the NOGICD Act in 2010.
“After 65 years of the discovery of crude oil in Nigeria, we are still way behind in local content development,” he said. “This forum must address this gap if we are serious about securing investments and scaling energy production.”
Joel-Onowakpo revealed that the Senate Committee on Local Content has commenced a comprehensive review of submitted local content plans, compliance frameworks, waivers, and performance reports.
He disclosed that several complaints had been received, including the recruitment of an expatriate as Director of Procurement in Chevron, a position previously held by a Nigerian.
Other complaints include Sahara Group’s refusal to remit the mandatory 1% Human Capital Development (HCD) levy, misuse of HCD funds meant for training Nigerians, and allegations that operators are sidelining qualified citizens in employment and contract awards.
He stressed that the committee would summon companies and regulators where necessary and conduct investigative hearings to address violations.
“Wherever there is negligence, we will act. And wherever the law is being ignored, we will correct it,” he stated.
The senator condemned widespread abuse of the HCD requirement, which mandates that 1–3% of every oil and gas project above $1 million be dedicated to capacity development for Nigerians.
“This is not decorative. It is how nations build engineering, fabrication, welding, geological and technology capacity,” he said. “We will not accept tokenism.”
Joel-Onowakpo also announced that the committee is working with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to expose and publicly shame companies undermining local content laws or exploiting Nigerian workers.
He reiterated the three national pillars for local content development: the NOGICD Act of 2010, Presidential Executive Order No. 5 (2018), and the Nigeria First Policy (2025).
He reminded operators that these laws were enacted to prioritise Nigerians in employment, procurement, and technology transfer, noting that Sections 28–37 of the NOGICD Act require that critical positions be Nigerianised within four years.
“The intention of the law is not ambiguous. The mandate is not optional,” he said.
To enhance transparency, the committee has opened multiple reporting channels for citizens to lodge complaints against operators or regulators.
These include the website [www.senatechairmanlocalcontent.ng](http://www.senatechairmanlocalcontent.ng), email portals complaints@senatechairmanlocalcontent.ng and whistleblower@senatechairmanlocalcontent.ng, and telephone lines 08050934767 and 08051022462.
“This is how a fair, balanced and prosperous ecosystem is built,” Joel-Onowakpo added.
He emphasized that the federal government cannot be blamed for unemployment when operators in the oil and gas sector deliberately bypass laws designed to protect Nigerian workers.
“Never again will jobs meant for our people be outsourced to expatriates,” he declared. “Everyone has a role, and everyone will be held accountable.”
The senator reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for investors while ensuring uncompromised adherence to local content regulations.
In closing, Joel-Onowakpo pledged transparency, firmness, and fairness in enforcing the law.
“We will ensure that local content is not a slogan but a lived economic reality. Nigerians must benefit. Nigerian companies must benefit. Nigerian workers must benefit. This is our mandate, and we will not compromise.”
The event ended with stakeholders renewing their commitment to deepening collaboration, strengthening Nigeria’s industrial capacity, and safeguarding the nation’s economic sovereignty.
