Reactivation of Ibom and Ikot Ekpene Plazas Garners Commendation for Gov. Eno, Charles Udoh

 

Residents and sports enthusiasts in Akwa Ibom commended Governor Eno on Tuesday for his initiative in repairing the multimillion-naira amphitheater at Ibom Plaza in Uyo.

Similarly, the provision of an amphitheater at Ikot Ekpene Plaza, allowing residents and sports lovers to watch the ongoing AFCON tournament for free, has also earned Governor Eno accolades for his visionary leadership.

TheHILL reports that while Ibom Plaza was constructed during the Arc. Victor Attah administration two decades ago, and the Ikot Ekpene plaza during Chief Godswill Akpabio's administration, both plazas had amphitheaters that successive administrations had tried to reactivate.

However, the seven-month-old administration of Pastor Umo Eno has recorded tremendous successes, attracting the praises of citizens and residents for finally reactivating the two places of camaraderie and fun.

Acknowledging the seamless management of the venues without security challenges, the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sir Charles Udoh, has received accolades for his exemplary role in ensuring a smooth experience for sports enthusiasts at the plazas and also for translating Pastor Eno's vision as encapsulated in the ARISE agenda.

Fielding questions at Ibom Plaza, Uyo, from our reporter on Tuesday, Mr. Ifiokobong Usen, a football lover, while watching the Tunisia and Namibia match, expressed gratitude for the government enabling him to watch the match for free and lauded Governor Umo Eno, emphasizing the positive impact he has made on the state since assuming office.

Helen Paul Ideh at Ikot Ekpene Plaza stated that Pastor Umo Eno has silenced even his worst critic in just a few months, with people-centric programs.

Also, Sellers at the two venues, according to our reporters, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, noting increased sales and thanking the Governor for fostering economic growth.

On his part, Godwin Idiong, a student of the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, called for massive support for Governor Umo Eno, applauding Commissioner Sir Charles for successfully translating the Governor's visionary initiatives into reality within the ministry, evidenced in events like Christmas Unplugged and Ibom Christmas Carols Festival 2023, among others.

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Divestment: Shell reaches agreement to sell Nigeria’s onshore oilfields at $2.4bn

 

Shell, an International Oil Company, has reached an agreement to sell its Nigerian onshore subsidiary, The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) to Renaissance at a total sum of $2.4 billion.

Renaissance is a consortium of five companies made up of ND Western, Aradel Energy, First E&P, Waltersmith and Petrolin.

The completion of the transaction is subject to approvals by the Federal Government of Nigeria and other conditions.

In a statement obtained by Vanguard from its website, Shell stated: “Transaction will preserve SPDC’s operating capabilities for the benefit of the joint venture. The transaction has been designed to preserve the full range of SPDC’s operating capabilities following the change of ownership. This includes the technical expertise, management systems and processes that SPDC implements on behalf of all the companies in the SPDC Joint Venture (SPDC JV). SPDC’s staff will continue to be employed by the company as it transitions to new ownership.

“Following completion, Shell will retain a role in supporting the management of SPDC JV facilities that supply a major portion of the feed gas to Nigeria LNG (NLNG), to help Nigeria achieve maximum value from NLNG.

Commenting on the deal, Shell’s Integrated Gas and Upstream Director, Zoë Yujnovich, said: “This agreement marks an important milestone for Shell in Nigeria, aligning with our previously announced intent to exit onshore oil production in the Niger Delta, simplifying our portfolio and focusing future disciplined investment in Nigeria on our Deepwater and Integrated Gas positions.

“It is a significant moment for SPDC, whose people have built it into a high-quality business over many years. Now, after decades as a pioneer in Nigeria’s energy sector, SPDC will move to its next chapter under the ownership of an experienced, ambitious Nigerian-led consortium.

“Shell sees a bright future in Nigeria with a positive investment outlook for its energy sector. We will continue to support the country’s growing energy needs and export ambitions in areas aligned with our strategy.”

The SPDC JV is an unincorporated joint venture comprised of SPDC Ltd (30%), the government-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (55%), Total Exploration and Production Nigeria Ltd (10%) and Nigeria Agip Oil Company Ltd (5%).

“The consideration payable to Shell as part of the transaction is US$1.3bn. The buyer will make additional cash payments to Shell of up to US$1.1bn, primarily relating to prior receivables and cash balances in the business, with the majority expected to be paid after the transaction.

“The amounts above will be adjusted to reflect any shareholder distributions, above US$200 million, made prior to completion. Other contingent payments, including those related to gas supply to NLNG, may become payable depending on business performance and fluctuation of product prices.

“The net book value of the entity subject to this transaction is approximately US$2.8bn as of December 31, 2023. Under the agreed deal structure, economic performance accrues to the buyer with effect from December 31, 2021 (the effective date). However, Shell will continue to consolidate SPDC until control transfers at completed.”

Source: Vanguard

Additional Information: Afe Mbono

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PUBLIC NOTICE

 

NOTICE!!! 

Information reaching us from EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is that the current change in weather / atmosphere across the country is not harmattan, but rather an extreme form of air pollution with dire consequences on human health  

This can be hazardous and lead to :

1. Reduced Lung function

2. Respiratory infection

3. Inflammation

4. Oxidative Stress (low level of antioxidants which even creates an imbalance in your body)

Consequently, everyone is being advised to please :

- Mask-up (wear nose mask)

- Stay hydrated (Drink more water)

- Cover food and water very well to prevent dust from settling on them.

- Wash fruits very well before eating

- Stay indoors as much as possible    

This condition may prevail for a considerable period of time.

Let’s take note, adhere strictly, keep our family and friends informed.

Over 200,000 Small Businesses Applied for N5bn SMEDAN Sterling Bank loan

 

A staggering 200,000 small-scale businesses have expressed their interest in accessing credit facilities worth N5 billion from the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), in collaboration with Sterling Bank. The loan options, ranging from N250,000 to N2,500,000, come with a single-digit interest rate of nine percent, aiming to enhance financial access and stimulate the growth of small businesses.

Charles Odii, the Director-General of SMEDAN, referred to the partnership with Sterling Bank as an “important milestone” in their efforts to boost economic growth and prosperity by improving SMEs’ access to finance. The competitive interest rate is expected to support SMEs in expanding operations, hiring additional employees, and contributing to overall economic activities.

The loan agreement with Sterling Bank spans 24 months, with repayment scheduled to commence after a minimum period of three months, allowing small businesses to leverage the facility effectively.

The media aide to the SMEDAN Director-General, Peter Adeshina, provided an update, stating that successful applicants had been contacted by the bank through email. He mentioned that the bank had received thousands of applications, and the response was massive. The assessment process has commenced, and the applicants will receive information on the next steps, with disbursement expected to commence in a few days.

While SMEDAN and Sterling Bank move forward with the loan disbursement initiative, there has been a delay in the Federal Government’s N275 billion palliative loan promised to manufacturers and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The slow pace of project implementation has raised concerns among prospective beneficiaries, with some expressing frustration over the lack of transparency in the process. The Association of Small Business Owners President, Femi Egbesola, criticized the slow data collation by supervising agencies, suggesting that genuine businesses were being discouraged from accessing the loans.

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Eteidung Asikpo Hails Gov. Eno On Supreme Court’s Affirmation Of Victory

 

 

The village head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot in the Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo, has hailed Pastor Umo Eno on the affirmation of his victory by the Supreme Court.

 

Eteidung Asikpo asserts that the sequence of victories from the gubernatorial polls of March 18, 2023, to the Election Petition Tribunal, the Appeal Court, and finally at the Supreme Court on Thursday, January 11, 2024, have proven that Pastor Eno was divinely chosen to govern Akwa Ibom State.

 

The village head, while describing the Supreme Court’s verdict as just and fair as well as a victory for all Akwa Ibomites, urged all opposition candidates to accept the outcome in good faith and to respect the mandate overwhelmingly given to Governor Eno by the electorate in the state.

 

He said that the news of the Supreme Court judgement was received with jubilation by indigenes and residents of Ekpri Nsukara Offot, a thickly populated community along Nwaniba Road and a co-host of the Federal Government-owned University of Uyo (UNIUYO) permanent site.

 

The royal father pledged the continued cooperation of his community to the Governor Eno-led administration to enable him to fully realise the implementation of his lofty ARISE Agenda Programme for the State.

He commended the governor for his numerous people’s-oriented achievements so far in office, such as payment of pension and gratuity, road works at Akpan Andem Market, Atiku Abubakar Flood Control and erosion works in Ewet Offot, and other numerous projects in education, health, agriculture, and housing.

Eteidung Asikpo noted with applause Governor Eno’s inclusive approach to governance and administering the state beyond partisan lines by relating well with President Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and others.

 

He said, “We are very happy that the Supreme Court has given a just and fair verdict in line with the outcome of the March 18, 2023, gubernatorial election in Akwa Ibom State. Opposition candidates should give peace a chance and accept the verdict in good faith.

“It is very clear that Pastor Umo Bassey Eno was divinely chosen to govern Akwa Ibom State. You can see this from the sequence of victories from the gubernatorial polls of March 18, 2023, the Election Petition Tribunal, the Appeal Court, and now the Supreme Court delivered on Thursday, January 11, 2024. As it is often said in Latin, Vox populi, Vox dei (the voice of the people is the voice of God).

“Now that the battle is over, let all hands be on deck now through support, solidarity, and prayers for the general good of Akwa Ibom State. We are lucky to have a governor like Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, who is godly and has the interests of the people and the state at heart. Right from when he was chosen as the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and presented to the Akwa Ibom people, it was obvious that he was the rightful choice, and today that has been confirmed.

“Indigenes of my community and residents alike will continue to give our total cooperation to the Governor Umo Bassey Eno-led administration so that he can effectively implement the ARISE Agenda programme and bring dividends of democracy to the people,” he stated.

 

"Every component of the ARISE Agenda has been kicked off, and its impact is being felt across the state. All that is needed now is to ensure total support, solidarity, and prayers for the success of our dear governor and his good plans for the state."

 

He also used the opportunity to wish a happy New Year to indigenes and residents of his community and appreciated them for their cooperation with his leadership since his ascension as the village head, assuring them of his unwavering commitment to administer the village well at all times. 

Group Joins Fight Against Oil Thieves, Sea Pirates in Akwa Ibom

 

In a proactive move to address the rising challenges posed by oil thieves and sea pirates, the recently inaugurated Waterways Transport Association of Petroleum Marketers of Nigeria (WTAPMN) in Akwa Ibom State has entered the forefront of combating criminal activities within Nigeria’s oil sector.

Prince Fidelis Ekanem, the secretary of the group in Akwa Ibom State, emphasized the significant economic impact of oil-related crimes, leading to substantial revenue losses for the nation. Ekanem stated that, in collaboration with various security agencies such as the Marine police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other industry stakeholders, the armed group is set to undertake operations endorsed by the government.

Addressing the press in Uyo, the state capital, Prince Fidelis Ekanem reiterated the group’s commitment to cleansing the creeks and waterways of criminal elements. The armed security outfit, working in tandem with the Joint Task Force (JTF) team, issued a stern warning to sea criminals, signaling their readiness to employ firepower against those engaged in illicit activities along the coastal communities.

Ekanem highlighted the association’s strategic approach, including training individuals across the state to provide intelligence to security operatives, aiming to eradicate bunkering activities, oil adulteration, and pipeline vandalism.

Expressing concern over the prevalence of oil thieves in the state, despite the absence of refineries or tank farms, Ekanem conveyed the association’s determination to collaborate with Governor Umo Eno in urging the establishment of refineries, tank farms, and other essential oil industry facilities.

The group’s mandate, sanctioned by the state government, aligns with a broader objective to safeguard the nation’s economy from the adverse effects of criminal activities within the oil sector.

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FORMER LAWMAKER VICTOR UDOFIA COMMENDS SENATOR AKPABIO FOR EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP

...Says Akpabio Merits Position As Leader of The Niger Delta  

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of Nigeria and collaboration with President Bola Tinubu on the Renewed Hope agenda, former Akwa Ibom State lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Victor Udofia has eulogized the President of the Senate; Senator Godswill Akpabio.

The former Assemblyman who represented Ikono State Constituency from 2011 to 2019, specifically encouraged Nigerians, especially those in the Niger Delta, to support President Tinubu and Senator Akpabio for more positive changes.

During an online interview on The HILL Newspaper Facebook page, Udofia, the Managing Director of Innovic Integrated Services Limited, also hinted Akpabio's commitment to Akwa Ibom's development. He highlighted Senator Akpabio's role in securing budget allocations for projects in the state, including addressing housing challenges for civil servants with the construction of over 50,000 Housing Units for them.

Udofia shared surprising instances of Akpabio's altruistic leadership, such as facilitating a Certificate of Occupancy for 10 hectares of land in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, saying, that has demonstrated his selflessness owing to the fact that many leaders would have taken the huge development to their Local Government Area.

Assessing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, Udofia commended the former Lagos State Governor for his wealth of knowledge and expressed optimism for positive outcomes from Tinubu's ongoing programmes and Projects. 

On his assessment of the 10th National Assembly, Udofia appreciated the stability and lauded Senator Akpabio for the speedy and efficient budget passage, assuring that it will facilitate the implementation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He also used the occasion to expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for mediating the Rivers State crisis. Udofia appealed to the former Minister of the FCT; Chief Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara to sheath their sword for the interest of their people in Rivers State.

On the leadership of the Niger Delta, Udofia asserted that Senator Akpabio, as the Senate President and a son of the region, was the leader by merit, not just age. He suggested seeking Akpabio's counsel on regional issues.

Commenting on the defection of 25 lawmakers in Rivers State, Udofia noted the importance of adhering to the constitution and electoral act. 

He took the opportunity to express his satisfaction with Pastor Umo Eno's administration in Akwa Ibom, eulogizing the remarkable peace and development as encapsulated in the Governor's ARISE Agenda. 

Udofia also commended Pastor Eno for political inclusivity, stating, "Never before in Akwa Ibom have we witnessed such stability in our politics, where members of opposition parties are invited to state functions, seated at one table, enjoying camaraderie. I must sincerely thank the Governor for his political maturity."

On the Ikono/Ini Federal constituency by-election, Udofia believed in the people's voice and urged his party to engage with grassroots communities.

When quizzed about his contributions to the development, of his area, Udofia who said he does not like to blow his trumpet, listed his numerous empowerment programmes even as he humbly mentioned infrastructural development in Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency where he singlehandedly attracted internal roads project measuring over 33km to his Federal Constituency.

He however advised the youth to focus on self-development, trust in God for a better future even as he urged them to respect elders and constituted authorities not just in the State but Country at large.

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