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Drug Parties Are Illegal, NDLEA Warns Club Owners, Fun Seekers

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Drug Parties Are Illegal, NDLEA Warns Club Owners, Fun Seekers

…. Provides details of Lagos night club raid, seizure of 384.886kg Loud, others from the facility

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned nightclub operators and fun seekers about the creeping culture of organising, hosting and attending drug parties, a disturbing fad within social circles, which is a blatant illegality under the Nigerian law.

​According to a press release on Tuesday 28th October 2025, signed by the NDLEA Director, Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, the Agency’s warning comes on the heels of a raid carried out by its operatives at a drug party, which held on the night of Saturday 25th October into the early hours of Sunday 26th October 2025, at Proxy Night Club located at 7 Akin Adesola street, Victoria Island Lagos where over 100 attendees were arrested along with the owner of the facility, Mike Eze Nwalie Nwogu alias Pretty Mike and his manager Joachin Millary.

​According to the Agency, “any gathering organised for the purpose of consuming, distributing, or abusing illicit substances is an act of criminality. These ‘drug parties’ contravene the explicit provisions of the NDLEA Act and will be treated as serious narcotic offences. In the case of the drug party at Proxy nightclub, organisers went above board and dared to produce and circulate flyers inviting fun seekers to come together to commit crime, an act that not only constitutes an incitement to commit crime but equally an affront to the law enforcement capabilities of the country if condoned.

​“Nigeria is currently grappling with a very high prevalence rate of drug abuse, particularly among our youths. These illicit drug parties not only fuel the drug scourge but also serve as hubs for new recruitment into drug addiction and actively undermine our current national efforts to safeguard public health and security.

“In the recent case, the NDLEA was meticulous and professional throughout the processes leading to the raid and during the operation. Following intelligence on the party, our undercover agents conducted surveillance on the facility, made pre-purchases of illicit drugs from within the club and for four hours between 11 pm on Saturday and 3 am on Sunday during the party, our operatives observed and recorded drug transactions and abuse going on before we eventually disrupted the brazen public display of illegality and made arrests.

“All attendees initially arrested were later profiled, addressed, counselled and released within hours in custody, in line with best global practices, while the two principal suspects: Pretty Mike and his manager, Joachin Millary, remain in custody following the seizure of 384.882 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a strong strain of cannabis and other substances from the club’s store.

“While the Agency will intensify surveillance and apply the full force of the law against perpetrators, owners of properties, hotels, and event centres found to be knowingly hosting such illegal activities risk the confiscation and forfeiture of their assets to the Federal Government. Those held in custody in the ongoing case will face prosecution, while we will file for forfeiture of the property, Proxy Night Club, in which the drugs were found.”

​The Agency urges all patriotic Nigerians, parents, religious and community leaders, as well as concerned citizen,s to be vigilant, report such activities, and partner with the NDLEA in combating this threat to national well-being.

We Promote Excellence, Integrity, NDDC Boss Declares

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We Promote Excellence, Integrity, NDDC Boss Declares

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering excellent services and a dignified engagement with stakeholders in the Niger Delta region.

Ogbuku, who stated this during a three-day Protocol and Protection Bootcamp for staff of the NDDC’s Corporate Affairs Department in Port Harcourt, remarked that it would enhance their capacity to deliver excellent services and uphold the Commission’s dignity.

The Managing Director, who was represented by the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, harped on the need for excellence and integrity in the Commission’s dealings with its stakeholders.

Ogbuku reminded the staff that the training was designed not only to enhance their knowledge but also to be an opportunity to strengthen their collective understanding of diplomatic protocol, security awareness, and the standards that define public service decorum.

The NDDC boss urged the participants to make the best use of the training, which is meant to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to represent the Commission effectively.

The NDDC Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, in a handshake with the Resource Person, Amb. Lawrence Obisakin, during the NDDC Corporate Affairs Department retreat on the protocol and protection nexus bootcamp in Port Harcourt. With them are the Director Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Seledi Thompson-Wakama (2nd left); the Deputy Director, Media Relations, Dr Tony Omah (1st left) and the Head of Events Management and Protocol, Mrs. Clara Braid (1st right)

The keynote speaker, Dr Emmanuel Metuaghan, highlighted the importance of protocol in defining organisational values and promoting international best practices. He stressed the need for protocol officers to be dedicated and detail-oriented, particularly in event planning and execution.

Metuaghan further emphasised the role of protocol in enhancing partnership and opening global opportunities, noting that NDDC had built institutional trust in recent times.

In his remarks, a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Ambassador Lawrence Obisakin, described protocol as the correct order of procedures in every event. He noted that protocol ensures orderliness, promotes efficiency, and upholds the dignity of office, and advised protocol officers to possess political awareness and maintain a high standard of dressing, stating: “How you dress is how you will be addressed.”

Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN: Restoring Integrity To Nigeria’s Electoral Process

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Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN: Restoring Integrity To Nigeria’s Electoral Process

By Adewole Kehinde

“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one who gets the people to do the greatest things.” – Ronald Reagan

After listening to Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, at the 56th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers (NALT) held at the University of Abuja on Monday, I was deeply convinced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made the right choice in appointing him as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Prof. Amupitan is indeed a round peg in a round hole, a man with the intellect, integrity, and courage required to lead Nigeria’s electoral body at a defining moment in our democratic history.

His vow to end the growing trend of elections being decided in courtrooms rather than at polling units resonates profoundly with every Nigerian who believes in the sanctity of the ballot.

I share completely in his concern over the alarming number of pre-election and post-election litigations that have burdened our democratic process. This disturbing pattern, as Prof. Amupitan rightly noted, is unhealthy for the growth and stability of Nigeria’s democracy.

Genuine democratic contests should be decided by the people, not through endless court disputes. The will of the electorate must be the ultimate determinant of who governs, not the interpretation of conflicting affidavits and procedural technicalities in courtrooms. Prof. Amupitan’s vision, to return electoral victory to the polling unit and not the courtroom, is both noble and necessary if we are to build public confidence in our democracy.

However, as the INEC Chairman himself emphasised, sustainable reform must begin from within the political parties. Most pre-election cases arise from internal party conflicts, disregard for party constitutions, and a failure to uphold internal democracy. Until political parties learn to respect their own rules and conduct transparent primaries, the avalanche of litigation will continue to undermine the credibility of our elections.

I also concur with Prof. Amupitan’s broader philosophy that the law must serve as an instrument of order and fairness. This is the only way Nigeria can build an electoral culture rooted in justice and transparency.

To make this vision a reality, the National Assembly must play its part by strengthening existing electoral laws to promote transparency, internal party discipline, and accountability. Legislative reforms should simplify the electoral framework, close existing loopholes, and ensure that institutions like INEC can function with greater autonomy and efficiency. Doing so will make the job of the INEC Chairman easier and help restore public faith in the system.

Of course, not everyone will be pleased with the coming reforms. Those who benefit from electoral manipulation and legal shortcuts will resist change. But as Prof. Amupitan’s words remind us, restoring integrity to elections is far more important than preserving anyone’s convenience.

Nigeria’s democracy stands at a crossroads. To move forward, political parties, candidates, and citizens must rally around Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) and support his efforts to rebuild an electoral process that reflects the true will of the people. Only then can we ensure that future elections are decided where they truly matter—at the polling unit, by the voters.

 

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole

Fidelity Bank Hails Air Peace On Maiden Heathrow Flight

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Fidelity Bank Hails Air Peace On Maiden Heathrow Flight

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has commended Air Peace for its historic inaugural direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow, describing the milestone as a bold testament to Nigerian excellence in global aviation.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON in a statement issued following the launch, praised Air Peace for its resilience and vision. The MD noted that the airline’s expansion into the prestigious Heathrow route reflects the strength of indigenous enterprise and the growing confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“We warmly congratulate Air Peace on the launch of its direct flights between Abuja and London Heathrow. This remarkable achievement marks another significant milestone in Air Peace’s journey and reflects its unwavering commitment to advancing the Nigerian aviation industry.

“Fidelity Bank is honoured to have been a trusted partner to Air Peace since it began operations 11 years ago. Our relationship has been built on shared values, strategic collaboration and a deep commitment to national progress. Today’s success is not only a triumph for Air Peace, it is a proud moment for Nigeria.

“We celebrate the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, his dedicated team and all Nigerians who share in this achievement”, said Onyeali-Ikpe.

The bank’s chief executive further highlighted Fidelity Bank’s longstanding role as a financial partner to key players in the aviation industry, reaffirming its position as a market leader in aviation financing and support services.

“Our partnership with Air Peace reflects our belief in the potential of Nigerian businesses to compete and thrive on the global stage. We have consistently backed the airline’s growth ambitions and will continue to do so as it opens new routes,” the MD added.

The MD also extended congratulations to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his proactive support of local operators. “The Honourable Minister’s efforts to create an enabling environment for indigenous airlines are yielding tangible results. This Heathrow route launch is a clear example of what is possible when government and private sector work together,” the MD stated.

Air Peace’s new Abuja–London Heathrow route marks its second direct flight service to the United Kingdom, following the successful launch of the Lagos–London route earlier in the year. The development is expected to boost connectivity, reduce travel costs and enhance Nigeria’s presence in international aviation.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

An Uneasy Head Wears The Crown: IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s Commitment Amid Distractions

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An Uneasy Head Wears The Crown: IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s Commitment Amid Distractions

By Adewole Kehinde

“Great leaders are willing to confront the uncomfortable and lead people through it” – John C. Maxwell

The saying that “an uneasy head wears the crown” could not be more fitting in describing the current Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, whose steady reform of the Nigeria Police Force continues to set a new benchmark for professionalism and global alignment.

While the IGP was recently engaging with global policing minds at the 2025 International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference, learning and sharing strategies to modernise and professionalise Nigeria’s policing system to meet international standards, a few mischievous elements parading themselves as “activists” and “lawyers” were busy tarnishing his reputation. These individuals have gone as far as calling him names such as “illegal IGP” and “Chief Terrorist of the Federation.”

Such reckless utterances only expose their ignorance and desperation. Those who make these statements clearly do not understand the character of the man they are attempting to malign.

IGP Kayode Egbetokun is a law-abiding, disciplined, and highly principled officer who weighs every decision, no matter how small, through the lens of legality and constitutional propriety. He has never, and will never, act contrary to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The so-called “activists” who thrive on mudslinging are, metaphorically speaking, pigs looking for whom to drag into the mud. But Egbetokun’s white remains too neat, too pure, to be stained by their unscrupulous antics. In fact, the more they attempt to tarnish his image, the more the brilliance of his reforms shines through.

Today, under his leadership, the Nigeria Police Force has witnessed unprecedented structural and welfare improvements. For the first time in history, the Medical and Legal Units of the Force have been elevated to full directorates, ensuring improved service delivery and enhanced professional recognition for officers in these critical areas. 

Equally remarkable is the over ₦32 billion paid out in insurance benefits to the families of fallen heroes, a clear demonstration of the IGP’s compassion and commitment to police welfare. These are not empty gestures; they are tangible, measurable results of visionary leadership.

Yet, as the IGP continues to focus on capacity building, welfare, and institutional integrity, some of these so-called “activists” prefer to organise street protests in Lagos, seeking media attention and, perhaps, foreign funding. While they chase shadows and controversy, Egbetokun remains steadfast in his mission to reform, professionalise, and reposition the Nigeria Police Force for effective service delivery in the 21st century.

No amount of smear campaign or malicious propaganda can derail this focus. The IGP’s record speaks for itself, and as the Force becomes more people-oriented and globally respected, history will remember Kayode Egbetokun as the reformer who refused to be distracted.

For those who still doubt, one thing is clear: the four years of IGP Kayode Egbetokun are sacrosanct, and his vision for a better, more accountable Police Force will stand the test of time.

Indeed, an uneasy head wears the crown, but this particular head wears it with honour, integrity, and unwavering purpose.

 

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole

NNPC Ltd Reaffirms Commitment To Strengthening Downstream Infrastructure At OTL Africa Energy Week

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NNPC Ltd Reaffirms Commitment To Strengthening Downstream Infrastructure At OTL Africa Energy Week

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has restated its commitment to the development and modernisation of downstream infrastructure across the country to enhance collaboration and efficiency within the energy sector.

According to a press release signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd, Abuja, Andy Odeh, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bayo Ojulari made this known on Monday during the opening ceremony of the 2025 OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week held in Lagos.

Speaking on the conference theme, “Energy Sustainability: Beyond Boundaries & Competition”, Ojulari emphasised that competition alone could no longer drive efficiency in the sector. He stressed the need for industry players to embrace collaboration, sustainability, and resilience as the new drivers of success.

“At NNPC, we are committed to deploying additional infrastructure across the oil and gas value chain while revamping our existing downstream assets nationwide,” Ojulari said. “These facilities will be accessible to partners seeking to store and transport products, fostering strategic alliances and collaboration in the downstream sector.”

The GCEO further noted that strategic policies, fiscal incentives, and transparent regulatory frameworks, particularly the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), have spurred expansion and investment in new areas such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and mini-LNG projects.

He urged participants to use the conference as a platform to address challenges and identify opportunities for redefining energy systems in profitable and sustainable ways, promoting partnerships, and advancing technologies that support decarbonisation and economic growth.

The OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week remains Africa’s leading platform for stakeholders in the downstream and midstream energy sectors, bringing together international organisations, policymakers, regulators, operators, and consumers to discuss emerging trends and opportunities across the energy value chain.

IGP Egbetokun’s Leadership: A New Dawn In Police Welfare And Career Advancement

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IGP Egbetokun’s Leadership: A New Dawn In Police Welfare And Career Advancement

By Adewole Kehinde

“Without promotion, something terrible happens… nothing!,” – P. T. Barnum

Tomorrow, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, another defining moment will unfold in the history of the Nigeria Police Force as newly promoted officers are decorated under the visionary leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM.

This ceremony is not just a routine event; it symbolises a transformative era of professional recognition, motivation, and institutional reform.

Since he assumed office, IGP Egbetokun has shown an unwavering commitment to enhancing the welfare, morale, and career progression of officers across all ranks.

Under his stewardship, over 10,000 police personnel have been decorated, marking the fastest and most extensive wave of career advancement in the annals of the Nigeria Police Force.

This is no small feat; it represents a deliberate effort to reward hard work, dedication, and integrity while ensuring that officers are better positioned to serve the nation effectively.

In a commendable development, the Police Service Commission (PSC) recently approved the appointment of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Dankwara Adamu Mohammed as Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) representing the North-East geopolitical zone.

The Commission also promoted Commissioner of Police (CP) Abibo Deinma Reuben to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), alongside 11 Deputy Commissioners of Police elevated to the rank of Commissioners of Police. These promotions reflect a merit-based and transparent process that has become a hallmark of Egbetokun’s leadership style.

The ongoing promotion exercise is part of a broader welfare initiative aimed at repositioning the Nigeria Police Force as a modern, efficient, and people-centred institution.

IGP Egbetokun understands that a motivated and well-rewarded police officer is more likely to uphold professionalism, resist corruption, and strengthen public trust. His leadership has bridged the gap between rank and file, creating a renewed sense of belonging and purpose within the Force.

However, beyond the joy and prestige of promotion comes a higher sense of responsibility. I call on all the newly promoted officers to adopt innovative strategies in discharging their duties, in line with global best practices in policing. The security landscape is evolving, and so must the approaches of our law enforcement officers.

Equally important is the need to strengthen community partnerships, gain public trust, and uphold the fundamental rights of citizens. Modern policing thrives on collaboration, empathy, and respect for human dignity. The public must see the police not as an occupying force, but as true partners in the pursuit of peace, justice, and security.

As IGP Egbetokun continues to implement reforms focused on welfare, professionalism, and accountability, it is clear that he is setting a new standard for leadership within the Nigeria Police Force. His commitment to fairness and meritocracy is restoring confidence in the system and inspiring younger officers to give their best.

In conclusion, these promotions are not merely a recognition of past achievements but a call to greater service. As leaders within the Force, the newly decorated officers must remain committed to ethical conduct and professional excellence.

The trust reposed in them by the Inspector-General of Police and the Nigerian people must never be taken for granted.

Under IGP Egbetokun’s transformative leadership, the Nigeria Police Force is indeed marching toward a brighter, more professional, and more accountable future.

 

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole

Ayobami Adekojo Inducted As Fellow Of The Institute Of Negotiators, Community And Social Development Experts

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Ayobami Adekojo Inducted As Fellow Of The Institute Of Negotiators, Community And Social Development Experts

Policy analyst, economist, and communications strategist, Ayobami Adekojo, has been inducted as a Fellow of the Institute of Negotiators, Community and Social Development Experts (INCOS-DE) during a grand ceremony held in Abuja.

The event brought together distinguished professionals, government representatives and development partners, as the Institute welcomed a new class of Fellows certified to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in negotiation, social development, and access to global funding mechanisms.

In his keynote address, Hon. Kunle Yusuff, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of INCOS-DE, said the Institute’s core mission is to build a generation of professionals who can effectively negotiate, monitor, and evaluate development projects across sectors.

“Nigeria has over ₦40 trillion (about US$40 trillion) in potential funding from global development partners and humanitarian organisations,” he noted. “Our task is to train experts who can access these opportunities and channel them to communities that need them most.”

Also speaking, Hajiya Zainab Kuchi, Chairman of the Board of INCOS-DE, highlighted that negotiation and community engagement are crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustaining progress at the grassroots. She commended the newly inducted Fellows for their dedication to nation-building.

In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the State Government of Bauchi, Governor Bala A. Mohammed pledged support for the mission of INCOS-DE, stating:

“I commend the Institute for building a cadre of professionals whose negotiation and development expertise will help unlock global resources and deliver sustainable impact at the local level. Bauchi State stands ready to collaborate with certified Fellows to ensure that development funds reach communities and foster real transformation.”

As one of the newly decorated Fellows, Ayobami Adekojo joins a distinguished network of professionals working to drive sustainable social impact in fields such as education, health, infrastructure, climate change, and clean energy. The Institute, through its partnerships with the Møller Institute at the University of Cambridge and Liberty University (USA), provides advanced executive training and certification in negotiation, leadership, and development management.

In his remarks, Ayobami Adekojo expressed appreciation to the Institute for the honour and pledged to continue promoting policies and partnerships that deliver measurable social outcomes.

“I am deeply honoured to join INCOS-DE as a Fellow,” he said. “In my work as a policy analyst and communications strategist, I recognise that negotiation and collaboration are key to unlocking Nigeria’s development potential. This fellowship strengthens my resolve to drive evidence-based policy, empower local contractors, and design solutions that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.”

The induction ceremony concluded with presentations of certificates and fellowship badges to the new members, who pledged to uphold the ethical and professional standards of the Institute.

For Ayobami Adekojo, the fellowship represents both recognition and responsibility — a call to deepen his contribution to Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through negotiation, research, and strategic policy design.

Enugu Police Recover Stolen Truck Hours After Theft In Edo, Launch Manhunt For Suspects

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Enugu Police Recover Stolen Truck Hours After Theft In Edo, Launch Manhunt For Suspects

Police operatives in Enugu State have recovered a MAN Diesel truck stolen earlier today in Benin City, Edo State, following a swift and coordinated response by officers attached to the Ozalla Division and the Distress Response Squad (DRS).

According to a press release signed by the Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the truck, reportedly stolen at about 12:05 a.m. on Monday, October 27, 2025, was intercepted and recovered around 6:30 a.m. at Ozalla in Nkanu West Local Government Area, along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.

The operation followed a distress alert received by the Enugu State Command’s Control Room, indicating that the stolen vehicle was heading towards the Expressway.

Upon sighting the police, the suspects abandoned the truck and fled into a nearby bush. Operatives have since launched a manhunt to apprehend the fleeing interstate criminal gang, while the recovered vehicle has been secured for further investigation.

Commending the officers for their professionalism and quick response, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, reiterated the Command’s commitment to proactive policing and public safety.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or criminal activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s hotlines: 08032003702, 08086671202, or the State Command-and-Control Centre numbers — 112, 09134666668, and 09134448093.

Igbere TV Set To Honour Amaechi With Lifetime Achievement Award In Public Service

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Igbere TV Set To Honour Amaechi With Lifetime Achievement Award In Public Service

…Eze Congratulates Ex-Minister For Dedication To Public Service

… Recalls the 2021 ThisDay Award On Amaechi As Minister of the Decade

” …..He said the floodgate of votes that poured-in from Nigerians, particularly netizens, which cemented Amaechi’s place as worthy recipient of the prestigious recognition has in no small measures reinvigorated the hope that Nigerians are ready to make a strong statement in due course, which will reorder the leadership landscape and reshape the pattern of the country’s politics in 2027….”

At the 6th edition of the Igbere TV Leadership Excellence Award (LEEX) billed to hold in Abuja, November 2, 2025, former Governor of Rivers State and ex Transportation Minister, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in Public Service.

The former Governor emerged winner in a 13-day nationwide online poll monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), after garnering a total of 147,884 votes to defeat other nominees on the same award category, including Oby Ezekwesili, who polled 73,982 votes; Goodwill Akpabio who got 47,269 votes; and Nasir el-Rufai, who bagged 39,462 votes, to emerge as the winner of the prestigious award.

The LEEX Awards, aims to recognize and celebrate excellence in leadership and public service and raise funds for charitable purposes.

Reacting to the development, erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP) and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, said the recognition undoubtedly underscores Amaechi’s trajectory of consistency in honest delivery of services that directly impactful services since 1999 when he started holding public office.

The APC Chief restated that the former Rivers Governor has his life fully dedicated to serving the public, a zeal which he said is squarely rooted in patriotic effort to genuinely deliver democratic dividends to the public and which has earned him a pride of place in the hearts of men across boards.

He said the floodgate of votes that poured-in from Nigerians, particularly netizens, which cemented Amaechi’s place as worthy recipient of the prestigious recognition has in no small measures reinvigorated the hope that Nigerians are ready to make a strong statement in due course, which will reorder the leadership landscape and reshape the pattern of the country’s politics in 2027.

In his remarks to Igbere TV, Amaechi was reported as expressing gratitude to Nigerians for remembering his contributions, stating that his desire to “make heaven” motivates him to avoid engaging in anti-people activities. He emphasized his commitment to accountability, citing his priest’s advice that “God in heaven will hold you accountable” for one’s actions.

Eze recalled that in 2021, Amaechi was honored by THISDAY Newspaper as the Minister of the Decade when he held sway as Minister of Transportation under the administration of Mohammadu Buhari.

During his days as Minister, Amaechi would drive himself to project sites on regular inspections to ensure prompt delivery of jobs within time. People who followed through Amaechi’s delivery of projects particularly the railway projects shuddered at the incredible energy he showed in overseeing every inch of the job so that quality is not compromised and Nigerians get the best out of the projects.

The LEEX award, the APC Chief noted will serve as incentive to Amaechi to aspire more, aim more and do more for Nigeria.

The 6th LEEX Awards, endorsed by the African Union and African Film Institute, will be chaired by Senator T.A. Orji, former Governor of Abia State, with a keynote address by Chief Olusegun Osoba, former Governor of Ogun State. The ceremony will take place at the NAF Conference Hall in Abuja.

Born May 27, 1965, in Ubima Community of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi’s political career spans through decades from when he was elected member of the Rivers State House of Assembly where he served as Speaker from 1999-2007, to his period as Governor of the oil-rich Niger Delta State from 2007 to 2015 and later when he held sway as Minister of Transportation from 2015 to 2022.

The Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Studies and Literature from the University of Port Harcourt; an LL.B. degree from Baze University and B.L from the Nigerian Law School, Abuja. Recently, he bagged an LL.M (Master of Laws) from the UK. The former Rivers Governor is a Lawyer, having been called to the Bar as Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court.

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