News Waka Now - NWN, Ekeki, Yenagoa (2026)

06/08/2026

Gov Okpebholo Celebrates SSG Umar Musa Ikhilor on Birthday, Hails His Exceptional Service

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as a dependable administrator, an astute legal mind and a loyal partner in the administration's drive to deliver good governance to the people of Edo State.

In a congratulatory message, Governor Okpebholo praised the SSG's exceptional capacity, diligence and strong commitment to the effective coordination of government activities, noting that his wealth of experience and sound judgment have continued to contribute significantly to the success of the administration.

The governor described Ikhilor as a disciplined and intelligent public servant whose professionalism, integrity, and calm disposition have earned him the respect of colleagues and stakeholders across the state.

He further commended the SSG's steadfast loyalty, dedication to duty and strong support for the administration's vision, saying his commitment has strengthened the machinery of government and accelerated the implementation of policies and programmes under the SHINE Agenda.

Governor Okpebholo said Ikhilor's exemplary service remains an inspiration to public servants, expressing confidence that he would continue to deploy his knowledge, experience, and leadership qualities in advancing the development of Edo State.

"As you celebrate another year of God's grace, I join your family, friends, associates and the people of Edo State in thanking God for your life and invaluable service to our dear state.

"I pray that the Almighty grants you many more years in good health, wisdom, strength and fulfilment as you continue to serve Edo State and humanity with distinction," the Governor said.

Happy birthday to an outstanding public servant and accomplished administrator.

06/08/2026

Gov Okpebholo Campaigns For APC Candidate Oyebamiji, Urges Edo Indigenes In Osun To Vote AMBO

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo on Wednesday urged Edo indigenes living in Osun State to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), in the August, 15 governorship elections.

Speaking at an APC campaign rally at the party secretariat in Oshogbo, Okpebholo described Oyebamiji as the candidate capable of delivering infrastructure, improving education and driving sustainable economic development in the state.

The governor said Oyebamiji has the capacity to replicate the developmental agenda being pursued by the APC in Edo State.

Addressing party supporters, Okpebholo said the APC candidate would prioritise road construction and improve public infrastructure if elected.

"This is the man that stands for the development of this state. This is the man that will develop your schools. This man will construct your roads. He will give you roads with concrete pavement — roads that will last for 80 years and above," he said.

He said the election offers Osun residents an opportunity to choose progress and accelerate the state's development.

"The reality of today is someone that will bring prosperity to this land. The time for us to call for progress into this state is now. We can not wait for tomorrow. This is the best man that will do the job," Okpebholo said.

The governor also urged voters to elect a leader who would effectively utilise resources provided to states by President Bola Tinubu's administration.

"We must vote for someone who will use the resources that Mr. President has made available for states to develop the states," he said.

Also speaking at the rally, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo appealed to Osun voters to back the APC and its candidate, saying victory for the party would demonstrate the state's support for President Tinubu.

"Why we must vote for APC and AMBO is because that is the only way we can show Mr. President our own appreciation," Ododo said.

The Director-General of the APC Campaign Council in Osun State welcomed the visiting governors and thanked them for their support for the party. He said the developmental achievements recorded in Edo and Kogi under APC administrations could be replicated in Osun if Oyebamiji is elected governor.

Edo State APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe and the party's Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh, also addressed Edo indigenes resident in Osun in their native dialects, urging them to vote for the APC candidate.

The rally was attended by APC leaders and supporters from Edo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun states, who reaffirmed their commitment, securing victory for the party in the governorship election.

06/08/2026

Bayelsa Bags US Disease Control Centre Award On Immunisation Programme
*Among Top Five States On Teachers Certification

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Douye, on Wednesday, received an international award presented by the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in conjunction with the African Field Epidemiology Network (AfriNET).

The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, who made the presentation during the 193rd state executive council meeting in Government House, Yenagoa, said the administration was honoured for the state's remarkable strides in immunisation and disease surveillance.

He explained that following an assessment visit by the Global Immunization Division of the United States Embassy in July this year, Bayelsa was recognised for successfully immunising more than 30,000 children and reducing the number of zero-dose children from 4,000 to 2,100 within one year.

The Health Commissioner also attributed the international recognition to the state's partnership with Zipline, which has significantly improved the delivery of vaccines and other essential medical commodities to difficult-to-reach riverine communities through drones.

Brisibe stated that Bayelsa equally had outstanding performance in the implementation of the malaria vaccine pilot programme, where it ranked first among participating states.

According to him, other notable achievements were the training and deployment of over 720 primary healthcare workers to strengthen immunisation services, particularly in hard-to-reach riverine communities; the deployment of tricycle ambulances and integration of cottage hospitals into the primary healthcare system to expand access to essential health services.

The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, who also briefed the council, said Bayelsa came fifth in the country in the recent teachers’ Professional Qualifying Examination conducted by the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).

He noted that the ranking validated the Prosperity Administration's sustained investment in improving the quality of education, noting that the state had only recently emerged first nationwide in the National Examinations Council (NECO) ranking in the number of candidates that obtained five credits and above in its examinations.

Responding to the presentations, Governor Diri commended the Ministry of Health for its dedication but challenged the team to intensify effort towards eliminating the remaining zero-dose cases.

He said: "While this achievement is commendable, it also tells us that about 2,000 children were yet to be immunised. I urge the Ministry of Health not to relent until every eligible child in Bayelsa receives life-saving vaccines. Nonetheless, I commend you for the excellent work you are doing."

He equally congratulated the Ministry of Education for the achievement but urged teachers and education managers not to become complacent.

"Ranking fifth out of the 36 states is encouraging. It shows that we are making progress. However, our target should be to rank among the top three and ultimately become number one in the country. I urge our teachers to redouble their efforts to make Bayelsa the leading state in educational excellence."

According to the governor, the performance of the state in these sectors was another indication that government approvals and investments were being effectively implemented by ministries, departments and agencies.

He further observed that the growing number of national and international recognitions by the state reflected the commitment and effectiveness of the administration in delivering quality governance across critical sectors.

On electricity supply from the state’s independent power plant, the Bayelsa helmsman assured residents that every part of Yenagoa will eventually be connected to the gas turbines, urging the people to remain patient and disregard misinformation capable of undermining the prevailing peace and security in the state.

He acknowledged that there were technical challenges in extending the project to some areas but stressed that government was committed to ensuring equitable access to the power across the state capital.

He advised residents yet to benefit from the project to seek accurate information through appropriate channels rather than spread rumours.

"The peace and security we enjoy in Bayelsa are paramount. I appeal to our people to exercise patience and avoid spreading false information.

“Every nook and cranny of Yenagoa will eventually be connected to the gas turbine. There may be teething challenges in some areas, but they will certainly be overcome for the benefit of everyone."

05/08/2026

Fyneman Wilson Endorses Ekisah Sinkumo, Pledges Support for Success of All APC Candidates

A foremost elder statesman in Sagbama LGA and Political Grandmaster, Hon. Fyneman Wilson, has endorsed the APC candidate for the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Sagbama Constituency II, Hon. Ekisah Sinkumo, assuring him of his unwavering support ahead of the election.

Hon. Wilson gave the endorsement when constituency stakeholders paid him a courtesy visit at his Yenagoa residence on Tuesday, 4th of August 2026 to formally present Hon. Sinkumo and seek his fatherly blessings and support.

Speaking during the visit, the respected elder statesman expressed confidence in Hon. Sinkumo’s capacity to provide quality representation.

He also pledged to work tirelessly for the victory of Hon. Ekisah Sinkumo and all candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), stressing the importance of unity and collective effort in securing success for the party at the polls.

The delegation of stakeholders said the visit was aimed at receiving the blessings and support of one of the constituency’s most respected leaders as the APC intensifies consultations ahead of the election.

Hon. Ekisah Sinkumo appreciated Chief Fyneman Wilson for the endorsement, fatherly blessings and wise counsel, assuring him that he would not take his support for granted.

05/08/2026

Gov Diri Chairs 193rd State Executive Council Meeting

… receives CDC-backed award for health achievements

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, today chaired the 193rd State Executive Council meeting at Government House, Yenagoa.

The meeting reviewed ongoing government programmes and policies. The Governor urged residents to remain patient as the state government continues efforts to extend electricity supply from the Gas Turbines across Yenagoa.

At the meeting, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, presented an award to the Governor on behalf of the United States Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S. CDC) and the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) in recognition of the state’s outstanding achievements in immunization and disease surveillance.

The recognition followed an assessment visit by the international partners, who commended Bayelsa for successfully immunizing over 30,000 children. The partners also noted the reduction in zero-dose children from 4,000 to 2,100 within one year, and improvements in healthcare delivery through the state’s partnership with Zipline.

Receiving the award, Governor Diri attributed the recognition to the effective implementation of government policies and the dedication of the Ministry of Health.

He, however, directed the ministry to intensify efforts to ensure every eligible child in the state is immunized, stressing that “no child should be left behind”.

Education Commissioner, Dr. Gentle Emelah, also presented a report acknowledging the outstanding performance of mathematics tutors in the state.

05/08/2026

Eyesan advocates collaboration, resilience in Nigeria’s upstream sector

The Commission Chief Executive, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, has pushed for deeper collaboration and resilience in Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas sector.

Eyesan said this at the SPE Nigeria Annual International Conference & Exhibition in Lagos on Monday, August 3, 2026.

She noted that collaboration remains at the heart of the Commission’s regulatory approach as evidenced by the NUPRC’s monthly engagements with industry leaders and extensive consultations in developing new regulations, guidelines and regulatory frameworks.

“We firmly believe that resilient energy systems, sustained investment and long-term growth can only be achieved through strong partnerships,” Eyesan said.

She added that around the world, the energy landscape is changing at an unprecedented pace in the face of geopolitical developments, climate considerations, technological disruption, artificial intelligence, changing investment priorities and growing energy demand which are redefining how nations produce, transport and consume energy.

The NUPRC said this underscored the need for regulators and operators alike to adapt.

“These changes also present tremendous opportunities for countries that are prepared to adapt, innovate and work together,” Eyesan said.

05/08/2026

BAYELSA'S 14-YEAR-OLD GOODNESS Ekunke MAKES HISTORY, WINS WORLD RAPID AMATEUR CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP

Bayelsa's 14-year-old chess sensation, Goodness Ekunke, has made history by winning the World Rapid Amateur Chess Championship in Abuja, becoming the first Nigerian to secure the world championship

Facing elite players from around the world, the Bayelsa-born chess prodigy displayed remarkable composure, tactical brilliance, and resilience to secure the World Rapid Amateur Chess Championship title, bringing global glory to Nigeria.

Goodness Ekunke's remarkable rise to global prominence began more than nine years ago in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, where his exceptional talent was identified and nurtured by renowned chess coach and FIDE Master, Kigigha Bomo.

Under Bomo's guidance, Ekunke developed into one of Nigeria's brightest young chess talents, laying the foundation for his historic World Rapid Amateur Chess Championship triumph.

From dominating local tournaments to standing atop national podiums, Goodness Ekunke's rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. Despite years of limited sponsorship that denied him opportunities to compete on the international stage, his breakthrough came when Nigeria hosted the championship, making participation possible. That historic opportunity was made a reality through the unwavering dedication and sacrifice of his foster father, coach, and mentor, FIDE Master Kigigha Bomo, whose relentless support helped pave Ekunke's path to becoming a world champion.

Long before conquering the world stage, Goodness Ekunke had already established himself as one of Nigeria's most outstanding young athletes through an impressive string of achievements representing Bayelsa State.

His remarkable medal haul includes winning gold at the 2022 National Sports Festival before adding two silver medals at the 2024 National Sports Festival. At the 2022 National Youth Games, he claimed one gold and one silver medal, followed by an outstanding two gold medals at the 2023 edition. He raised the bar even higher at the 2025 National Youth Games, where he swept three gold medals.

Ekunke also excelled at the regional level, capturing two gold medals and one silver medal at the maiden Niger Delta Sports Festival. He further cemented his dominance by winning three gold medals at the 2026 Niger Delta Sports Festival, underlining his consistency and exceptional talent.

These achievements laid the foundation for his historic triumph at the World Rapid Amateur Chess Championship, confirming his status as one of Bayelsa State's finest sporting ambassadors

Ekunke's emergence as a world champion came as little surprise to those who have followed his meteoric rise. Earlier this year, the teenage sensation earned a place on Nigeria's senior national chess team after successfully navigating a highly competitive national selection tournament featuring the country's best players. He is now set to represent Nigeria at the World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, this September, alongside fellow Bayelsan Quickpen Ebimobo-Ere Deborah and their coach, FIDE Master Kigigha Bomo

With his current rate of progress, the coveted Grandmaster title appears increasingly within reach. Should he maintain this remarkable trajectory, Goodness Ekunke is well positioned to become only the sixth Sub-Saharan African Grandmaster in history—an achievement that would elevate not only Bayelsa State but also Nigeria and the African continent on the global chess stage.

Today, Bayelsa celebrates. Nigeria celebrates. Africa celebrates.

A 14-year-old boy who first learned the game on a chessboard in Yenagoa has risen to the pinnacle of world amateur chess, proving that talent, discipline, and perseverance can overcome even the toughest odds.

From the streets of Yenagoa to the summit of world chess, Goodness Ekunke's inspiring journey is a powerful reminder that greatness can emerge from anywhere when opportunity meets determination. His historic triumph is more than a personal achievement—it is a defining moment for Bayelsa State, a proud milestone for Nigeria, and an inspiration for a new generation of African chess players.

05/08/2026

ODI Festival Medical Outreach Records Massive Turnout in Bayelsa

Residents of Odi and neighbouring communities in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State turned out in large numbers to benefit from a three-day free medical outreach organised as part of activities marking the 2026 Odi Festival.

The community health programme, organised by Century Group in collaboration with the ODI Festival Planning Committee, was held from July 30 to August 1, 2026, at Odi Community, Bayelsa State.

The outreach provided a wide range of free healthcare services aimed at improving access to medical care and promoting disease prevention within the area.

Services offered include Free malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDT), Free treatment for positive malaria cases, Distribution of free mosquito nets, Free eye screening, Provision of free eye drops and distribution of free eyeglasses.

Speaking during the event, community members expressed appreciation to Century Group and the Odi Festival Planning Committee for bringing quality healthcare services closer to the people, particularly at a time when access to affordable medical care remains a challenge for many rural residents.

Beneficiaries described the initiative as timely and impactful, noting that the free eye care services would significantly improve the quality of life of many residents.

The organisers stated that the outreach was designed to address common health challenges such as malaria and vision-related problems, while also encouraging preventive healthcare practices among rural communities.

Many attendees offered prayers for the sponsors and organisers and expressed hope that the medical outreach would become a regular feature of future Odi Festival celebrations.

The successful turnout underscored the importance of public-private collaboration in delivering grassroots healthcare interventions and improving the well-being of communities across Bayelsa State.

05/08/2026

NIS DG, Shaibu Applauds Team Nigeria Performance at Glasgow, Scotland

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has applauded Team Nigeria for its outstanding performance at the Glasgow Games, describing the athletes' achievements as a source of national pride and a testament to the country's growing sporting potential.

Shaibu said Team Nigeria's impressive outing, which saw the country finish seventh overall and emerge as Africa's highest-ranked team, was the result of careful planning, early preparation, improved welfare packages and effective support systems put in place for the athletes.

He noted that the performance demonstrated what Nigerian athletes could achieve when given the right environment to excel.

The NIS Director General also commended the National Sports Commission for its role in coordinating the country's participation, saying the success recorded in Glasgow reflected a collective commitment to raising the standard of Nigerian sports.

According to him, the seamless organisation before, during and after the competition contributed significantly to the athletes' confidence and performance.

The immediate past Edo state deputy governor further acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he credited with providing the necessary backing that enhanced Team Nigeria's preparations and participation at the Games.

He said the President's commitment to sports development had boosted the morale of athletes and officials, enabling them to compete successfully on the international stage.

Reflecting on the significance of the achievement, Shaibu stressed that emerging as Africa's best while placing seventh globally should serve as a wake-up call for greater investment in sports.

He urged government at all levels, the private sector and sports enthusiasts to channel more resources into grassroots talent development, modern training facilities and sustainable athlete welfare programmes.

He expressed confidence that with sustained investment, proper planning and continued collaboration among stakeholders, Nigeria could build on its recent success and become a dominant force in global sports.

Shaibu reaffirmed the commitment of the National Institute for Sports to supporting initiatives that will nurture future champions and strengthen the country's sporting excellence.

05/08/2026

Bayelsa State Government has
‎strengthened its partnership with UNICEF to improve child nutrition, healthcare delivery and youth empowerment.
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‎The high-level meeting held at the State Health Ministry, witnessed the State committing a ₦140 million matching fund to support child nutrition initiatives, with a focus on the first 1,000 days of life, local nutrition solutions, and improved healthcare access to riverine communities.

The meeting,which was also anchored on the States' healthcare development was attended by the Commissioner for Youths Development, Hon. Alfred Kemepado Dr. Jones Stow, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health; Chief Dr. Williams Appah, Executive Secretary, Primary Health Care Development Board; and other
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‎The collaboration also explored youth agriculture and entrepreneurship programmes, reaffirming the Gov. Douye Diri administration's commitment to building a healthier and more resilient healthcare system for all Bayelsans.
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Speaking at the event, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayaowei, noted that the health initiatives align with a broader 10-year vision for urban renewal and sustainable infrastructure and commended UNICEF for prioritizing pregnant women and children.
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‎The partnership also addressed youth empowerment. UNICEF highlighted a potential agriculture and entrepreneurship initiative for Bayelsa.
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