News View Digest

Edo Nuj Chairman Inducted into Historic Benin Recreation Club Habiba Sam  The Benin Recreation Club, a storied institution in the heart of Benin City, has welcomed a new member into its fold.  Comrade Festus Alenkhe, NUJ Edo Chairman, has been inducted into Benin Recreation Club, a prestigious club in Edo State comprising prominent elites from various professions, aimed at promoting members' well-being. Alenkhe, who has won many awards for his journalistic skills and  commendation  for repositioning the union, was honored with the privilege of taking a bow during the screening exercise, presided over by Venerable Nosayaba Edokpolor.marking the beginning of his membership.  Venerable Edokpolor, in his remarks, praised Comrade Alenkhe's impeccable character, describing him as a team player who is eager to contribute to the growth and development of the club. Established in 1933, the Benin Recreation Club has a rich history of providing a haven for its members to r...

Obaseki, Others Wanted as Edo Assembly launches Probe into MOWAA and Radisson Hotel Habiba Sam  The Edo State House of Assembly's Ad-Hoc Committee, established to investigate the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) and Radisson Hotel, has taken a significant step in its probe by inviting key stakeholders and former government officials to appear before it.  Former Governor Godwin Obaseki, who initiated the MOWAA project, is among those summoned to provide insights into the funding and management of the project. Obaseki is expected to shed light on the financial dealings of the Radisson Hotel project, which has been shrouded in controversy.  The Committee is also interested in understanding the role played by the former Governor in the project's execution and the financial implications thereof. In addition to Obaseki, other notable individuals have been invited to appear before the Committee. They include Philip Iheanacho, Director of MOWAA; Osarodion Ogie, former Secretary...

Edo State Flags Off 16 Days of Activism Against GBV Habiba Sam  The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign observed annually from November 25th to December 10th. This year's theme, "Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls," is particularly relevant in today's digital age. The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Edo State, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, highlighted the alarming statistics of online violence against women and girls.  She noted that nearly 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced some form of online violence, and women are more likely than men to be harassed online. The Commissioner emphasized that digital violence is real, harmful, and preventable. She appealed to lawmakers and media partners to join the ministry in creating safer digital spaces for women and girls through legislation and digital liter...

Edo State Government Cracks Down on Kidnappers, Dismantles Major Den By Admin  The Edo State Government has scored a major victory in its fight against violent crime with the dismantling of a major kidnappers' den in Egbai community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area.  The operation, carried out by the Edo State Special Security Squad, resulted in the arrest of two suspected kidnappers, Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh. The suspects were arrested following a high-level, intelligence-driven surveillance operation. They confessed to their involvement in the abduction of one Blessing Nosa, for whose release a ransom of ₦30 million was collected.  The duo also allegedly abducted another business person and demanded a staggering ₦500 million ransom, triggering an expanded multi-agency response and sustained tracking that culminated in their arrest. The Coordinator of the Edo State Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, said the operation was in line with Governor Monday...

NAWOJ National President Appoints Adesuwa Ehimuan as Special Adviser: A Vote of Confidence in Exceptional Leadership Habiba Sam  In a significant move to harness the expertise and dedication of its members, the National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Aisha Bura, has appointed Comrade Adesuwa Ehimuan, the Edo State Chairperson of NAWOJ, as Special Adviser.  This appointment was announced at the National Executive Council Meeting of the Association, which took place in Owerri, Imo State, on November 22, 2025. The appointment of Comrade Adesuwa Ehimuan as Special Adviser is a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to the NAWOJ.  As the Edo State Chairperson, Comrade Ehimuan has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the advancement of women and the promotion of journalism in the state. Her tenure has been marked by numerous initiatives that have enhanced the profile of NAWOJ in Edo State, and her contributions to th...

NAWOJ National President Appoints Adesuwa Ehimuan as Special Adviser : A Vote of Confidence in Exceptional Leadership Habiba Sam  In a significant move to harness the expertise and dedication of its members, the National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Aisha Bura , has appointed Comrade Adesuwa Ehimuan, the Edo State Chairperson of NAWOJ , as Special Adviser.  This appointment was announced at the National Executive Council Meeting of the Association, which took place in Owerri, Imo State , on November 22, 2025. The appointment of Comrade Adesuwa Ehimuan as Special Adviser is a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to the NAWOJ.  As the Edo State Chairperson, Comrade Ehimuan has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the advancement of women and the promotion of journalism in the state. Her tenure has been marked by numerous initiatives that have enhanced the profile of NAWOJ in Edo State, and her contributio...

NBA Benin Branch Lauds Unity and Determination of Association Members"* Habiba Sam  The Nigerian Bar  Association (NBA) Benin Branch has hailed the association's National Executive Council (NEC) meeting as a shining testament to the unity and collective determination of NBA members.  In his welcome address at the NEC meeting held in Benin  recently, the Chairman of the NBA Benin branch, Idemudia Iredia-Osifo, commended the NBA President, Afam Osigwe, SAN, for his visionary leadership, which has significantly strengthened the association's structure and advocacy for the rule of law and citizens' rights.  Iredia-Osifo noted that the NEC meeting was a crucial milestone in the association's journey, providing a platform for members to come together and chart the way forward for the organization. The NBA Benin branch chairman highlighted the importance of the NEC meeting, which aimed to reflect on the association's journey, evaluate ongoing reforms, and identify pat...

Okomu Oil Palm Company Celebrates Long-Serving Employees with Grand Awards Ceremony Habiba Sam  Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc recently honored 82 employees, who had dedicated 15, 20, and 25 years of service to the company, at a grand ceremony held at its headquarters in Edo State.  The awardees were showered with various household gift items, including king-sized beds, wardrobes, dining sets, upholstery chairs, generators, and 32-inch flat-screen television sets, as well as cash prizes in recognition of their years of service. The Managing Director, Dr. Graham Hefer, praised the recipients for their unwavering commitment and contribution to the company's growth.  "The staff who have been rewarded today have given back part of their contributions to this company. They have shown loyalty and commitment over the years, and we are privileged to have people who have worked with us for as long as 25 years," Dr. Hefer said.  He encouraged other employees to emulate their examp...

Empowering the Less Privileged: The Dominion Women Support Group Story* Habiba Sam  In the heart of Edo State, Nigeria, a group of dedicated women came together to form the Dominion Women Support Group for APC, led by their  Edo State coordinator, Mrs. Igbinovia Kehinde.  Their vision was bold to create a society where every individual, regardless of their background or socio-economic status, has access to opportunities that enable them to thrive. They envisioned a future where the less privileged are empowered to break the cycle of poverty and progress. The group's mission was clear: to support the less privileged in society by providing micro-grants, school support, medical support, and other forms of assistance that empower them to improve their lives.  They aimed to work collaboratively with the Government of Edo State to achieve its goals, including delivering dividends of democracy to the people.  Their objective was multifaceted, with a focus on economic ...

Commissioner For Women Affairs Sends Condolences to Barr. Bisi Idaomi Over Mother's Passing By Admin  The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, has extended her heartfelt condolences to Barr. Bisi Idaomi, the immediate past Commissioner of the Ministry, now serving as the Edo State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, on the passing of her beloved mother.  In a message issued on behalf of the Ministry's staff, Mrs. Abdallah described the loss of a mother as a deeply painful experience that leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who loved her.  She acknowledged the immense pain and grief that Barr. Idaomi and her family must be going through, and she prayed that God would grant them the strength and resilience to navigate this difficult period. Mrs. Abdallah reflected on the life of the late matriarch, noting that she lived a life marked by grace, resilience, and strong moral values tha...

Senator Imasuen Empower:s Youth Through Boundaries and Respect  Habiba Sam  T he second edition of "Comprehending Gen Z + Gen A" returned to Benin City, focusing on the critical theme "My Body and Boundaries." This initiative, championed by Senator Neda Imasuen, brought together students, policymakers, and child advocates to discuss body autonomy, consent, and mutual respect. Senator Imasuen emphasized the importance of inclusion, highlighting that understanding one's body and personal boundaries is crucial for building a just society.  He stressed that both boys and girls must learn about respect, empathy, and responsibility to create a better future. The Coordinator of the Edo State Office of the First Lady underscored the need for setting moral and behavioral boundaries, citing the alarming rate of sexual assault among young people.  She emphasized that consent is paramount and that anyone who crosses personal boundaries is committing a serious offense. Dr. O...

A Year of Progress: Governor Okpebholo and First Lady's Commitment to Women Empowerment and Social Justice Habiba Sam Governor Monday Okpebholo's first year in office has been marked by significant achievements, particularly in the area of women empowerment, healthcare, and social justice, driven by the Office of the First Lady, led by Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani.  The Senator Okpebholo SHINE Agenda has enabled the office to emerge as a catalyst for change, focusing on strategic initiatives that empower women and promote inclusive governance. At the heart of Mrs. Anani's work is a commitment to ensuring that women are active agents of change.  Her office has rolled out initiatives that empower women economically, politically, and socially, aligning with the broader vision of building a society free from gender-based violence and discrimination.  These efforts have included providing support to survivors of gender-based violence, promoting healthcare, and advancing educat...

WDU to honour Dambazu, Adebayo on 15th Convocation on Saturday   By Tosan Atie/Warri Western Delta University,  (WDU), Oghara, Delta State, will hold its   15th convocation ceremony for the  2024/2025 academic session on Saturday 15,2025. This was made known yesterday in a statement signed and made available to the Press by the Acting Registrar, Mr O. Ofotokun. Ofotokun  said the event would feature the conferment of degrees, diplomas and prizes on deserving students. According to him, the university will also confer honourary doctorate degrees on two eminent Nigerians, Prince Adewale Adebayo, a legal Practitioner,philanthropist and former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 general elections. General Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau (retd), a former Chief of Army Staff and Minister of Interior will also be conferred with a honourary doctorate degree. While Adebayo will receive a Doctor of Political Science (Honoris Causa)...

One Year On: Commissioner for Health Hails Governor Okpebholo's Healthcare Initiatives Habiba Sam  As the Commissioner for Health in Edo State, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, reflected on the past year in office of Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. "One year is very, very overwhelming," he said, In a span of just one year, the governor's commitment to improving healthcare has yielded impressive results, showcasing a significant overhaul of the state's healthcare infrastructure. highlighting the significant strides made in the health sector under Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration. With a record-breaking 61 primary healthcare centers commissioned in less than a year, the state's healthcare infrastructure has received a major boost. The House Committee on Health Services from the National Assembly recently visited two primary healthcare centers in the state and was impresse...

Commissioner for Women Affairs Congratulates Governor Monday Okpebholo on One Year in Office By Admin  The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, has congratulated the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on the occasion of his first anniversary in office.  In a message issued on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, directors, and staff of the Ministry, Mrs. Abdallah commended the Governor for his exemplary leadership, people-oriented policies, and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Edo State.  She noted that within one year, Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated dedication to good governance through purposeful leadership, infrastructural renewal, and reforms that have positively impacted various sectors, including women empowerment and social welfare. According to her, "Your Excellency's administration has shown remarkable sensitivity to the needs of women, children, and other vulnera...

A Year of Progress: Commissioner Congratulates Governor Okpebholo on Remarkable Achievements Habiba Sam  The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, has extended her warm congratulations to Governor Monday Okpebholo on his first anniversary in office.  In a heartfelt message on behalf  of the permanent secretary, directors and staff of the Ministry ,Mrs. Abdallah praised the Governor's leadership style, describing it as exemplary and people-centric. According to her, "Governor Okpebholo's administration has made significant strides in promoting good governance, infrastructural development, and reforms that have positively impacted various sectors." "The Governor's commitment to women's welfare and empowerment has been particularly noteworthy, with initiatives that have improved the lives of women and vulnerable groups." "The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has pledged to continue s...

Edo State Cracks Down on Government Land Encroachment: Know the Consequences Habiba Sam  The Edo State Government has taken a firm stance against encroachment on government lands with the enactment of the Edo State Public Property Protection Law, 2025.  This law aims to protect public assets from unauthorized occupation, sale, and misuse, and prescribes severe penalties for violators. The Penalties for Encroachment includes -; *10 years imprisonment*: for forceful or violent entry into government land. *5 years imprisonment*: for unauthorized sale, lease, or transfer of government property without the Governor's consent. *Prosecution and disciplinary action*: for professionals who facilitate or assist in illegal land transactions. The Consequences of Encroachment are-: *Loss of investment*: encroachers risk losing their entire investment, with no compensation for structures or developments made on the land. *Invalid claims*: any claim of ownership or title obtained without pro...

Telling the Story of a New Edo: Commissioner Afegbua Tasks NAWOJ on Governor Okpebholo 's Agenda Habiba Sam  The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, has requested that the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Edo State chapter, help promote and enlighten the public about Governor Okpebholo's  SHIINE agenda through their various media platforms . During a courtesy visit, Afegbua emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the media in highlighting the governor's initiatives and projects.  He expressed confidence that working together would help raise awareness about the government's efforts and progress in Edo State.  Afegbua praised the governor's bold and visionary economic reforms, describing them as the driving force behind the state's ongoing transformation and rapid development.  He noted that the governor's policies have brought a new look to the state, citing ongoing flyover proj...

Edo Lawmaker Showcases Commitment to Education and Community Development"* Habiba Sam  Hon. Bright Iyamu, the representative of Orhionmwon-South Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, recently conducted an inspection of a newly constructed three-classroom block at Ofunmwengbe Primary School, Ugboko-Niro, in Orhionmwon Local Government Area.  This project is part of his constituency intervention efforts aimed at enhancing the quality of education in the area. During the visit, Hon. Iyamu interacted with the pupils and was given a tour of the school premises by the Head Teacher, Mr. Odigie Endurance.  The school's head expressed profound gratitude to Hon. Iyamu for his dedication to improving the learning environment in rural communities. *Key Projects Initiated by Hon. Bright Iyamu* - *Construction of Perimeter Fence*: To enhance security for pupils and teachers - *Installation of Borehole*: To provide clean water within the school environment - *Solar-Powered S...

Amnesty International-Trained Journalists: Champions Of Truth, Justice, And Human Rights Habiba Sam  In a world where truth is constantly under siege, journalists in Nigeria face an uphill battle to report on human rights abuses without fear of reprisal.  The latest cases of banditry, Boko Haram attacks, and state agency abuses have created a new reality that demands a heightened sense of awareness and vigilance from media practitioners. Recently, Amnesty International raised the alarm over the weaponization of the law against journalists, highlighting a disturbing trend of arrests, intimidation, and silencing of those who dare to expose corruption and abuse of power.  The case of Daniel Ojukwu, an investigative journalist who was detained for exposing a ₦147 million scam, and the detention of Dayo Aiyetan and Nurudeen Akewushola for alleged cyberstalking and defamation, are stark reminders of the challenges journalists face. Legal practitioner and rights advocate, Dr. Ab...

Edo Commissioner Lauds Tinubu's Reforms, Hails Okpebholo's Achievements Habiba Sam The Edo State Commissioner for Education and State Director of the City Boy Movement, Paddy Iyamu, has expressed his profound appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's introduction of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).  This initiative is designed to ensure that no child in Edo State is deprived of education due to financial difficulties. In a recent address at the City Boy Movement empowerment program lunch in Benin City, Iyamu commended Governor Monday Okpebholo's first-year achievements, which include the establishment of 68 new schools, the provision of ₦1 billion in student bursaries, scholarships to China, and empowerment programs for women and small businesses.  Iyamu described Governor Okpebholo as a virtuous leader who is committed to bringing succor to the needy in society. Iyamu praised Governor Okpebholo, saying, "Governor Okpebholo is a virtuous son who goe...

  Court Adjourns Cyberstalking Case Against Ex-Edo Governorship Candidate By Admin  A Benin High Court has adjourned the cyberstalking case against Paul Okungbowa, the Young People's Party (YPP) governorship candidate in the last Edo State election, until November 21, 2025. The adjournment was due to Okungbowa's absence and lack of representation in court. When the case was called, the prosecution informed the court that the matter had not been assigned to a specific prosecutor, and requested that a hearing notice be served on the defendant and the Director of Public Prosecutions to allow for necessary applications on the next adjourned date. Justice Rita Irele-Ifijeh granted the application and adjourned the case. This development follows Okungbowa's previous conviction and sentencing to six months' imprisonment by the Oredo Chief Magistrate Court in December 2024 for negligence and defamation.  He was found guilty of calling a pupil's mother a prostitute in the pr...