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Constitution Review Will Guarantee Just, United, and Forward looking Federation

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President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio

By George Mgbeleke

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has said that the review of 1999 Constitution being embarked upon by the National Assembly will guarantee the evolution of a more just, united, and forward looking federation.

Akpabio made the remarks while declaring open the South South Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

The exercise was held simultaneously in five geopolitical zones across the country.

A statement by the Special Assistant on Media/Communication to the President of the Senate, Anietie Ekong, quoted Senator Akpabio to have said: “Today’s event is not merely a formality. It is a democratic rite—a solemn moment in which the people, not politicians alone, speak into the soul of the nation. It is an affirmation that in a democracy, every voice counts.

“Let us not forget that democracy is a work in progress. No constitution is eternal in its original form, and no democracy is perfect—because man himself is not perfect. But it is in our collective pursuit of perfection—that more perfect union—that the true beauty of democracy lies.

“Therefore, the review of our Constitution is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. It is not a complaint against the past but a commitment to the future. We amend not to abandon, but to realign—to adapt our national charter to the changing realities, dreams, and demands of the good people of Nigerian.

“Every Nigerian is a stakeholder in Nigeria’s democracy. This public hearing is a testament to the Senate’s unwavering belief that truth emerges not from silence but from dialogue; not from monologue, but from the aggregation of honest opinions. That is why we are here—not as party men, but as patriots. Not as political actors, but as nation-builders,” he said.

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, said the Constitution review was an important moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey that must lead to a restructuring of the country. . He was represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi.

According to Pastor Eno, “This zonal public hearing is not a mere procedural step in legislative activity. It is, in truth, an important moment in our democratic journey. The scores of constitution alteration bills across thirteen thematic areas—painstakingly curated by the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution speak to some of the most urgent and persistent questions about the structure, efficiency, equity, and future of our federal union.

“These themes resonate deeply with the yearnings of the peoples of the South South. Indeed, they mirror longstanding calls from this region for a more just, responsive, and restructured Nigeria, where every federating unit can flourish, contribute meaningfully, and feel a sense of belonging.

“Here in the South South, we look to this exercise not just with interest, but with hope—hope that this constitutional review process, will, far from being just another talk shop, move us closer to a federation that works for all, protects the rights of every citizen, empowers communities, and unlocks the full potential of states.

Deputy Senate President and the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Barau listed some key areas that the Constitution review would address.

“Several key issues we need to address include electoral reforms and adjudication; judicial reforms focused on case management and administration; enhancements to local government administration; the involvement of traditional institutions in contemporary governance; promoting human rights; ensuring gender equity and inclusion in governance; the devolution and distribution of powers; the structure of our federation; and concerns related to security and policing.” He was represented by the Senator representing Akwa Ibom North East, Aniekan Bassey.

Several interest groups presented their memoranda at the Zonal public hearing. Issues covered included States creation, Local Government autonomy, gender inclusion, role of traditional rulers among others.

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2nd Phase Leaders Complete Training on Leadership and Mediation – Gen. Elaye Lauds Otuaro’s Visionary Drive

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Administrator of the PAP, High Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, flanked by trainees at the end of leadership training and their masters displayed in exposures

By David Owei,Bayelsa

The 2nd Phase Camp Leaders’ training on “Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Mediation”, sponsored by the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has successfully come to a close Friday on a commendable note.

The intensive leadership-building initiative, held under the distinguished leadership of the Administrator of the PAP, High Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, aimed to equip leaders with practical skills in peacebuilding, mediation, and conflict resolution—critical tools for sustaining peace in the Niger Delta region.

Reacting to the successful completion of the programme, General Elaye ThankGod Dollar Slaboh, National Chairman of the Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme, alongside his national leadership, congratulated the participants for their commitment and active engagement throughout the training.

General Elaye commended Dr. Otuaro for his visionary leadership and strategic direction, which is rapidly changing the dynamics of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, shifting it towards human capital development and long-term peace.

He emphasized that such initiatives are essential for reinforcing grassroots leadership and consolidating the peace already being enjoyed in the region.

> “This training is not just a success for the 2nd Phase; it is a win for the entire Niger Delta. The wisdom of High Chief Otuaro in investing in leadership and conflict resolution will continue to bear fruit,” General Elaye stated.

 

The Presidential Amnesty Programme continues to champion developmental engagements that bridge gaps, empower beneficiaries, and promote sustainable peace in the Niger Delta.

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Regional Development Minister,Engr Momoh bags Awards

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Minister of Regional Development, EngrAbubakar Momoh (right) receiving a n award from Executive Secretary/ National Coordinator of the Institute, Dr. Musa Aliu Yakub Okhumeode

 

Regional Development Minister,Engr Momoh bags Awards

By Our Correspondent

Minister of Regional Development, Engineer Abubakar Momoh has been conferred with two Awards by the Institute of Professional Economists and Management Policy (IPEPM) tagged ‘ Excellent Leadership Award and Professional Doctorate Fellowship Award”.

Receiving the Awards today in his office, Engr. Momoh, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition and reiterated that true governance is about leaving a lasting legacies.

He further said “My track record speaks for itself and is a testament to the awards I have received “.

He used the opportunity to commend the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and resilience in ensuring the holistic development of the country.

According to him, the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development is a bold step to integrate all Regional Development Commissions under one coordinated umbrella.

The Ministér said that the recognition bestowed upon him further reinforces his commitment to service and to impact mankind.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation who is the Executive Secretary/ National Coordinator of the Institute, Dr. Musa Aliu Yakub Okhumeode, said the courtesy visit was to present the prestigious Awards in recognition of his exceptional leadership and contribution to regional and national Development, as well as to seek partnership in strategic training programmes.

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Minna Lack of Sensitisation responsible for transporting small arms and light weapons to criminal gangs-Enanch and offi officials

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The Zonal Director, North Central, National Centre for Small Arms and Light Weapons Mr Abdul Adamu,NUJ council chairmen and otticials and others omrade Abu Nmodu

By Uthman-Baba Naseer,Minna

The Zonal Director, North Central, National Centre for Small Arms and Light Weapons Mr Abdul Adamu Enenche made the submission during a visit to the Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ in Minna.

Of recent, many Nigerians have been apprehended with cache of arms and ammunitions meant for delivery to bandits, kidnappers and other criminals.

This has raised questions as to why some individuals will willingly allow themselves to be used as couriers of illegal weapons to criminals.

The Zonal Director, National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Mr Abdul Adamu Enenche said lack sensitisation on dangers of such acts and intelligence from people are contributing to the spread of arms.

He observed that porous or poorly managed borders and activities of local fabricators who manufacture guns are other sources of weapons proliferation that the Centre is trying to address.

Mr Adamu Enenche who solicited the support of members of the NUJ to enable the Centre to achieve its objectives, promised to synergize with other sister agencies.

The Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ, Niger State Council, Comrade Abu Nmodu expressed optimism that there would be great reduction of criminal activities once the issue of small arms are resolved.

Comrade Nmodu urged the Centre to be open for collaboration with the Union especially in the area of training members on it’s activities.

Across section of members of the Union who spoke on the occasion stressed the need for the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons to deploy officers of the Centre to the grassroots for easy intelligence gathering.

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