News June 02, 2026 Jessie Eddy Foundation, Offer Scholarships, Doles Out Relief Material to 600 Residents in FCT Community Outreach

​Jessie Eddy Foundation, Offer Scholarships, Doles Out Relief Material to 600 Residents in FCT Community Outreach

More than 600 residents, including children, women, community leaders and young entrepreneurs benefited from a community outreach programme organised by a non-governmental organisation, Jessie Eddy Foundation in collaboration with L2D International and other partners at Waru Community in Apo, Abuja, the nation's capital. 

The outreach at Waru Primary School held on May 30 and was aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable families through education support, women's empowerment, talent development, and the distribution of relief materials.

Speaking on the impact of the programme, founder of the Foundation, Jesse Eddy said the initiative was designed to provide immediate assistance to disadvantaged households while creating long-term opportunities for women and children through educational interventions and economic empowerment.

As part of the educational support package, school fees were paid for 50 children to enable them return to school, while examination fees were also settled for another 50 students who could not afford registration for Junior and Senior WAEC examinations. 

Educational materials, including exercise books, pens, pencils, rulers, erasers, sharpeners, and child development books, were distributed to beneficiaries.

The outreach also featured women empowerment activities. Five women received business support grants to strengthen and expand their enterprises, while mothers participated in competitions and interactive sessions with winners receiving cash prizes. Additional cash gifts were distributed to parents to support household needs.

One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of a 15-year old young fashion designer who produced costumes used by children during stage performances. In recognition of her creativity and entrepreneurial potential, a partner of the Foundation awarded her a ₦500,000 business support grant.

Similarly, a coordinator responsible for mentoring and nurturing children who showcased their talents through music, dance, fashion parades, and other creative activities received a cash gift of ₦200,000 in appreciation of her contributions to child development.

Hundreds of welfare items were also distributed during the programme. Beneficiaries received personal care products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary pads, bathing soap, and sponges. Food items distributed included rice, noodles, spaghetti, groundnut oil, tomato paste, sugar, salt, seasoning cubes, beverages, biscuits, drinks, packed meals, and other household supplies.

Children entertained participants with dance performances, music presentations, fashion parades, and other creative showcases, while parents actively participated in community engagement activities designed to strengthen family bonding and social cohesion.

The outreach helped remove barriers to education, empowered women economically, rewarded exceptional talent, provided welfare support to vulnerable households, and restored hope to families facing economic hardship.

The Jessie Eddy Foundation expressed appreciation to its partners, donors, volunteers, and supporters for contributing to the success of the programme and called on individuals, corporate organisations, development agencies, and philanthropists to partner with it in expanding support for vulnerable women and children across communities.

Entertainment June 01, 2026 Meet Rita "Dia" Orumieyefa: The Shy Bayelsa Graduate Making Waves in Nollywood

​ Meet Rita "Dia" Orumieyefa: The Shy Bayelsa Graduate Making Waves in Nollywood

By Barakumo Odede

In the ever-evolving world of Nollywood, new talents continue to emerge, bringing fresh energy, creativity, and authenticity to the screen. One such rising star is Orumieyefa Ebikoboere Rita, popularly known as Dia, a young actress whose passion for acting is steadily earning her recognition in Nigeria's thriving film industry.

Born into a family where she is her mother's first child and her father's third, Rita hails from Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, with ancestral roots in Sagbama. Beyond the glamour of the screen, she describes herself as one of the shyest people anyone could meet.

"I hate being around people except when I'm out for work," she said with a smile, reflecting on her naturally reserved personality.

Despite her quiet nature, Rita has found confidence and expression through acting—a passion she has nurtured since childhood. A graduate of the Department of Fisheries at Niger Delta University (NDU), she never imagined that her love for performing would eventually lead her into the spotlight.

Unlike many aspiring actors who spend years attending auditions, Rita's journey into Nollywood has been unconventional. She revealed that she began her acting career in 2023 and has never attended a formal audition.

Her entry into the entertainment industry started with content creation, producing regular social media skits and videos before gradually transitioning into family-oriented content. Through consistency and dedication, she attracted attention and opportunities that helped launch her acting career.

"My nickname is Diamond, but most people know me as Dia," she explained.

For Rita, acting is more than a profession; it is a source of fulfillment and joy.

"I have always loved acting. It is something I do effortlessly. It is the feeling of enjoying something you have been asked to do and doing it willingly. It brings me joy to bring a character to life outside my natural self," she said.

She added that one of the greatest rewards of acting is seeing audiences connect with and appreciate the characters she portrays.

"It brings joy to see people enjoy a character you bring to life. I love it a lot."

As Nollywood continues to search for fresh faces and authentic storytellers, Rita "Dia" Orumieyefa represents a new generation of actors whose talent, determination, and passion are opening doors to bigger opportunities.

Though still at the early stages of her career, industry observers believe the Bayelsa-born actress possesses the dedication and natural ability required to carve a lasting niche for herself in Nigeria's competitive movie industry.

For Dia, the journey is only just beginning, but with her talent and unwavering love for acting, the future appears bright for this fast-rising Nollywood star.

News June 01, 2026 Global Felicitations Pour In For Tourism Icon and Diplomat, Dr. Irene Chukwunonso Ezekwe, As She Marks Her Birthday Today*

*Global Felicitations Pour In For Tourism Icon and Diplomat, Dr. Irene Chukwunonso Ezekwe, As She Marks Her Birthday Today*

*ABUJA, NIGERIA* — Today, the international community, the Nigerian tourism sector, and a vast network of global well-wishers unite in celebration as Dr. Irene Chukwunonso Ezekwe officially marks her birthday. 

Widely celebrated as a beacon of professional excellence across the landscape of Nigerian tourism and international diplomacy, Dr. Ezekwe continues to emerge as a formidable force in both the corporate and philanthropic sectors. 

As messages of congratulations flood in from colleagues, world leaders, and beneficiaries of her empowerment initiatives, this day highlights the profound impact of a leader who has dedicated her life to national growth, sustainable development, and global harmony.

A native of Orlu in Imo State, Dr. Ezekwe’s remarkable trajectory seamlessly blends her academic prowess with a deep-seated passion for global affairs. 

Her journey began at Okporo Technical College and progressed through a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Olabisi Onabanjo University, ultimately culminating in a prestigious Doctorate in Tourism and Foreign Diplomacy from Highstone Global University in Texas, USA. 

As the visionary Founder and CEO of Irene Traveling and Tours Limited, she has successfully redefined the standards of travel management. 

By providing personalized and seamless experiences for a diverse clientele, her expertise in branding and customer service has made her agency a hallmark of reliability and excellence within the competitive tourism industry.

Beyond her vast commercial success, Dr. Ezekwe has purposefully channeled her influence into the Irene Ezekwe Empowerment Foundation, a registered corporate entity dedicated to the economic development of youth and women. 

The foundation’s impactful work in fostering entrepreneurial skills, advancing educational opportunities, and driving agricultural transformation highlights her unwavering commitment to sustainable social progress. 

Currently a student of the African School of Diplomacy and International Relations, she continues to leverage her multidisciplinary background to gracefully bridge gaps between nations, cultures, and communities.

Her exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed by the international community, resulting in a series of high-profile accolades that punctuate her career. 

She was recently honored with the Sustainable Development Award by Highstone Global University for her dedication to the United Nations’ SDGs, and she received the AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Honours for her leadership in promoting Pan-African frameworks. 

Furthermore, her role as a mediator and advocate for harmony was solidified when she was granted the Justice of Peace Award by the Advanced Peace and Reconciliation Centre of Nigeria, alongside notable recognitions from Etiquette Nigeria and the Commonwealth Day commemoration committee for her significant impact on the diplomatic world.

Despite her extensive professional commitments and demanding global engagements, Dr. Ezekwe beautifully embodies a balance of public service and deep family values. 

She remains a devoted wife to Mr. Izuchukwu Remigus Ezekwe and a proud mother of five, serving as a testament to the power of centered, values-driven leadership. 

As heartfelt felicitation messages continue to pour in from across the globe today, Dr. Irene Chukwunonso Ezekwe stands as a profoundly inspirational figure, proving to the world that visionary leadership, empathy, and integrity remain the true cornerstones of national growth and international diplomacy.

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News June 01, 2026 Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit Accuses Ag. Registrar of Compromise in Trademark Dispute

Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit Accuses Ag. Registrar of Compromise in Trademark Dispute

The founder of the Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit (NDEIS), Kunle Nwiya Jnr, has accused the Registrar of the Trademark Registry, Department of Commercial Law, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, of alleged compromise and deliberate delay in handling an ongoing trademark dispute involving the summit’s identity.

Nwiya alleged that the Registrar has failed to issue an administrative order restraining the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture from using the name “Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit” for their forthcoming programme.  

The NDEIS founder maintained that the summit brand is a legally protected identity that his organisation has developed over the years into a recognised platform for economic dialogue, investment promotion, and regional development within the Niger Delta, long before the establishment of the Chamber of Commerce.

In a petition submitted through its legal representatives, NDEIS urged the Trademark Registry to immediately direct the Chamber of Commerce to suspend the use of the disputed name pending the resolution of issues surrounding ownership and trademark rights.

However, following what the organisation described as prolonged inaction by the Registry, Nwiya has accused the Acting Registrar of complicity and underhand dealings aimed at frustrating efforts to protect the trademark.

According to the petition, the continued use of the name by the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce amounts to a violation of the summit’s intellectual property rights and an attempt to undermine the authority of the Trademark Registry by proceeding with preparations for the event despite pending complaints before the Registry.

The legal team representing NDEIS stated that their client fully complied with all directives issued by the Registry, including appearing before officials with original documents and evidence intended to establish statutory ownership and prior rights over the “Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit” identity.

The petition further argued that allowing the Chamber of Commerce to proceed with the event under the disputed name could create what the lawyers described as a “fait accompli” before the Registry reaches a final determination on the matter.

NDEIS lawyers warned that failure by the Trademark Registry to take urgent protective measures may compel their client to approach the courts for injunctive relief to restrain further use of the name pending legal determination of the dispute.

Speaking on Friday, Nwiya alleged that despite honouring an invitation by the Registrar and waiting for several hours at the Registry, was unavailable and failed to meet with him over the matter.

He also accused the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment of showing reluctance in compelling the Acting Registrar to issue an interim administrative order suspending the planned summit until the trademark dispute is resolved.

“The continued silence and delay are raising serious concerns about fairness and transparency in the handling of this matter,” Nwiya said.

The dispute is centred on ownership, recognition, and commercial rights associated with the “Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit” brand, which has gained significant visibility within economic and investment circles across the Niger Delta region.

While NDEIS insists that its trademarked identity is being unlawfully used, the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture had not issued any official response to the allegations as of the time of filing this report.

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Entertainment June 01, 2026 Abuja on Standstill: I Go Die, Gordons, and Edo Pikin Storm Transcorp Hilton as Koboko Master Unveils "La Décima" 10th Anniversary Concert!*

*Abuja on Standstill: I Go Die, Gordons, and Edo Pikin Storm Transcorp Hilton as Koboko Master Unveils "La Décima" 10th Anniversary Concert!*

*ABUJA* — If you thought last year’s historic shutdown of the newly commissioned Transcorp Event Centre was the peak of entertainment in the nation’s capital, think again. Gbadamosi ThankGod Benard, famously known as Koboko Master, is set to rewrite the history books on *June 21* with his highly anticipated 10th-anniversary comedy concert, dubbed *"La Décima."*

Last year, Koboko Master made headlines across the country as the first comedian to pack the newly built ultra-modern Transcorp event facility to the brim, officially recording the biggest and most successful comedy show Abuja has ever seen. The milestone event set a ridiculous standard for live entertainment in the capital city.

However, for a trailblazer like Koboko Master, breaking records is just a warm-up. This year, he is deliberately raising the bar to unimaginable heights.

Returning to the prestigious *Congress Hall at the Transcorp Hilton on June 21*, the *La Décima* anniversary show promises an upgraded, premium experience. To celebrate a decade of undisputed stage mastery, Koboko Master has carefully curated an absolute "Avengers" lineup of Nigeria's finest and most hilarious stand-up comedians.

Fans in Abuja are in for a rib-cracking treat as comedy heavyweights *I Go Die, Gordons, Acapella, Edo Pikin, and US-based comic Mister Patrick* are all confirmed to take the stage, alongside a host of other spectacular entertainers.

Beyond the star-studded lineup, what continues to set Koboko Master apart from his peers is his unmatched professionalism. In an industry where "African time" is heavily normalized, Koboko Master holds the rare and highly respected reputation of delivering top-notch, premium excitement with *flawless timing*. His events are famous for starting early and closing strictly on time—ensuring attendees get maximum value, uncompromised safety, and premium entertainment without the exhausting delays.

Known for his spontaneity and highly relatable material, Koboko Master's unique brand of comedy perfectly encapsulates the everyday Nigerian story, delivering punchlines that resonate deeply with his audience.

With the sheer magnitude of the performers on the bill and Koboko Master's signature touch of excellence, *La Décima* is not just a comedy show; it is an epoch-making celebration of Nigerian art and humor.

Mark your calendars for June 21. If last year’s event was a blockbuster, *La Décima* is guaranteed to be a cinematic masterpiece of laughter. You do not want to be told the story!

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Politics June 01, 2026 Accord Party Denies Olawepo-Hashim's Presidential Candidacy, Alleges Forged Affirmation Figures

Accord Party Denies Olawepo-Hashim's Presidential Candidacy, Alleges Forged Affirmation Figures

The Accord Party in Nasarawa State has rejected claims that businessman and politician, , emerged as the party's presidential candidate through an affirmation exercise, describing the reported figures as fabricated and unconstitutional.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Publicity Secretary of Accord Party in Nasarawa State, Oshi B. Ebegye, alleged that the results being circulated in support of Olawepo-Hashim's purported emergence as the party's presidential flag bearer were forged and did not emanate from any recognized party process.

Ebegye specifically dismissed reports claiming that Nasarawa State recorded 47,309 affirmative votes for Olawepo-Hashim during a nationwide affirmation exercise, insisting that no such exercise took place in the state.

According to him, the total membership of the Accord Party in Nasarawa State is less than 4,000, making the publication of over 47,000 votes highly questionable and inconsistent with the party's actual structure and membership strength.

"The purported result claiming that Nasarawa State recorded 47,309 affirmative votes for Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim is false, misleading, and does not reflect the reality on the ground," Ebegye stated.

He further alleged that several states, including Nasarawa, Katsina, Zamfara, Borno, Yobe, the Federal Capital Territory, Bauchi, Ogun, Ekiti, Ondo, Oyo, and Lagos, did not participate in any affirmation exercise as claimed in recent publications.

According to the party spokesman, there was no coordinated, verifiable, or officially recognized affirmation process conducted in the affected states, and the figures attributed to them were "misleading, unverified, and completely detached from any legitimate party structure or activity on the ground."

The Nasarawa Accord Party official also maintained that Olawepo-Hashim failed to meet the constitutional requirements necessary to be declared the party's presidential candidate.

"It is important to clearly state that Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim did not meet the constitutionally required conditions to be declared as the Presidential Candidate of the Accord Party, and any publication or claim suggesting otherwise is false and should be disregarded," he said.

Ebegye called on party members, stakeholders, and the general public to ignore the results being circulated, insisting that only processes conducted in accordance with the party's constitution and internal guidelines can be recognized as valid.

He reaffirmed the party's commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and due process, stressing that any attempt to impose candidates through allegedly fabricated figures would not be accepted by legitimate party structures.

As of the time of filing this report, Olawepo-Hashim and his supporters had not publicly responded to the allegations.

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News May 30, 2026 Dr. Paul Erinne Foundation Commits ₦250 Million to Rebuild GSS Afikpo Assembly Hall

Dr. Paul Erinne Foundation Commits ₦250 Million to Rebuild GSS Afikpo Assembly Hall 

The 1967 alumnus of Government Secondary School (GSS), Afikpo, has committed ₦250 million to comprehensively remodel the school’s Assembly Hall — a donation that education stakeholders say represents the largest single alumni-funded infrastructure investment in any secondary school in South-East Nigeria.

Dr. Paul Erinne, a structural engineer, entrepreneur, and founder of the Paul Erinne Foundation, made this announcement on Saturday, 17 May 2026, before assembled alumni, school officials, and dignitaries at the school grounds in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, as part of the activities of the 2026 National Delegates Conference of the GSS Afikpo Old Boys’ Association (GSSAOBA).  

The scale of the project itself a story. When GSSAOBA Past National Chairman, Chief Ifeanyi Eleje first invited his classmate, Dr. Erinne, to consider supporting the Assembly Hall as a legacy undertaking, the estimated cost stood at ₦100 million.

Dr. Erinne, drawing on decades of professional experience, insisted on conducting a thorough site inspection before committing. What he found changed the figures and raised the standards.

“I advised him to visit the school to make adequate evaluation as a renowned structural engineer. He visited and made critical observations which significantly increased the scope of the project,” Chief Ifeanyi Eleje, Past National Chairman, GSSAOBA said. 

Following that assessment, the scope expanded to ₦250 million — a figure Dr. Erinne committed to funding personally. In a gesture that reflects both humility and community thinking, he has deliberately left portions of the broader campus project open for other alumni to adopt, ensuring the initiative becomes a shared legacy rather than a solitary act.

On completion, the Assembly Hall will be transformed into a state-of-the-art multipurpose facility. Confirmed features include modern interior fittings and furnishings, integrated multimedia and audiovisual infrastructure, a professional-grade public address and sound system, and solar-powered energy installation for sustained operation.

The hall is intended to serve as a venue for academic assemblies, civic engagement programmes, cultural events, and intellectual discourse, extending its usefulness well beyond the school calendar.

Addressing the assembled audience in Afikpo, Dr. Erinne framed the donation not as charity but as obligation and delivered a direct message to the students who will inherit the facility.

“I am remodelling the school’s Assembly Hall to encourage our children and grandchildren to succeed through this institution. We need to inculcate discipline in them, as it remains the only way to success,” said Dr. Paul Erinne, Donor and 1967 Alumnus. 

“GSS Afikpo gave me and countless others the tools to succeed. It is only right that we give back in a manner that endures for generations,” Dr. Paul Erinne said. 

He called on the appointed contractor and the school principal to ensure judicious application of the funds and the long-term stewardship of the completed structure.

Dr. Bobbie Iwe, the incumbent National President of GSSAOBA, described the project as a historic marker for alumni-led educational development in the region.

“This project signals the commencement of one of the most significant alumni-driven educational infrastructure initiatives in South-East Nigeria. It is about more than bricks and mortar—it is a statement of gratitude to an institution that shaped generations of leaders,” Dr. Bobbie Iwe, National President, GSSAOBA

Mr. Ogbonnia Nwachi, the 21st Principal of GSS Afikpo, expressed the school community’s appreciation and pledged transparent and accountable management of the renovated school facility.

Founded during the colonial era, Government Secondary School, Afikpo, is among Nigeria’s most distinguished secondary institutions. Its alumni roll spans law, engineering, medicine, academia, public service, and business – a record of output that the GSSAOBA Legacy Project seeks to honour and sustain.

The Pavilion and Assembly Hall projects were first conceived during the two-term GSSAOBA national presidency of Chief Eleje as enduring monuments to alumni commitment. Dr. Erinne’s intervention has elevated the Assembly Hall component into a benchmark for what is possible when alumni loyalty meets professional rigour.

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