Governor Fubara Tasks New Rivers Police Commissioner Against Nocturnal Meetings

● Tonye Okurumo

In a significant development, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has tasked the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju to avoid clandestine meetings that could lead to actions against the people of Rivers State. The Governor’s advice came during a courtesy visit by CP Adepoju to the Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday, January 17, 2025.

“You are not a new person in our State,” Governor Fubara reminded the CP, acknowledging his prior role in Operations within the Rivers State Police Command. “Your duty now is to work with the government and sister agencies to maintain law and order, and protect lives and property.”

Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of neutrality, stating, “Be apolitical. Don’t go to nocturnal meetings in people’s houses and, in the morning, declare war on Rivers people. That is the only advice I will give to you.”

The Governor further asked CP Adepoju to address critical security challenges in the state, notably cultism and kidnapping, which have plagued boundary communities and affected the youth. “These issues are affecting our schools, turning students into problems for society,” he said. “We must get to the root and reduce these issues. While total elimination might be difficult, a significant reduction is necessary.”

Governor Fubara also assured CP Adepoju of the state government’s unwavering support, provided he upholds professionalism. “On our part, we will continue to support you. Your success here will mean more elevation for you. A bad record will eventually affect your career growth,” he cautioned.

In response, CP Olugbenga Adepoju expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to address the state’s complex security challenges with professionalism and innovation. “We will strengthen our intelligence gathering, enhance rapid response mechanisms, and foster deeper trust with the community,” he stated.

He reassured the Governor and the people of Rivers State of the Command’s apolitical stance. “Our Command will remain firmly apolitical, dedicated solely to upholding law and order. This commitment is vital to maintaining the trust and confidence of the people we protect,” CP Adepoju affirmed.

The CP also highlighted the importance of constructive engagement with political leaders and key stakeholders to secure necessary resources. “Our engagement will always be conducted with professionalism and integrity,” he added.

Meanwhile, in a related event, Governor Fubara and CP Adepoju jointly decorated two police officers with their new ranks of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) during a brief ceremony at the Government House. The officers, Anthony Peter and John Wakama, were promoted from Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP 1) to DSP. The decoration ceremony was attended by the officers’ wives, adding a personal touch to the formal event.

Governor Fubara concluded the visit by reiterating his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in ensuring peace and stability in Rivers State. GMTNewsng

Enugu Partners Landmark Africa as Nike Lake Resort is Set for N10bn Transformation

● Ferdy Agu

•••Mbah Targets $30bn Economy, Landmark Pledges Job Creation, Tourism Boost

Enugu State Government and Landmark Africa Group have formalized a partnership to rejuvenate the iconic Nike Lake Resort, committing to a N10 billion investment in the first phase of the project. This collaboration aims to restore the resort’s former glory and enhance its potential as a prime tourist destination.

Governor Peter Mbah highlighted the significance of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) during the signing ceremony at the Government House, Enugu. “This partnership marks another critical step towards achieving our goal of a $30 billion economy within the next six years,” Mbah stated.

He praised Landmark Africa Group for their expertise, expressing confidence in their ability to revitalize the resort. “Landmark Group is a known name in the hospitality sub-sector. Your reputation precedes you, and I was pleased to see your interest in managing and operating Nike Lake Resort.”

Paul Onwuanibe, Founder and CEO of Landmark Group, emphasized their commitment to the project, attributing their interest to the state’s improved infrastructure and security. “We want to be part of the transition that restores Nike Lake to its past glory,” Onwuanibe remarked. “We are committed to making this project a success, creating jobs, and significantly contributing to the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).”

The governor underscored his administration’s dedication to infrastructure development, which he believes will attract further investment. “This year alone, we have allocated N800 billion to infrastructure, aiming to make Enugu a premier destination for investment, business, tourism, and living,” he said.

L-R: Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Enugu State, Adaora Chukwu; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke; CEO, Landmark Africa Group, Paul Onwuanibe; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Secretary to Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and the General Counsel, Landmark Group, Adaobi Nwanze, during the signing of an agreement for the revamping and repositioning of Nike Lake Resort at the Government House, Enugu.

Highlighting the dualisation of the Enugu-Opi-Nsukka Road, Mbah assured, “This development will enhance the ease of doing business and open up more opportunities for investors like Landmark.”

Onwuanibe reaffirmed Landmark’s commitment, promising to bring in two million visitors annually and to inject over N10 billion into the resort’s initial phase. “We intend to invest heavily and ensure this becomes a win for Enugu State,” he said.

Dr. Chike Ogbonna, a Lagos-based hospitality expert, praised the initiative, stating, “This partnership is a game-changer for Enugu’s tourism sector. The influx of visitors and the economic boost will be significant.”

Engineer Uchenna Ani, an Abuja based IT expert, also lauded the project. “Restoring Nike Lake Resort to its former glory will position Enugu as a top-tier tourist destination, driving development and employment,” he commented.

Governor Mbah urged other investors to consider Enugu, highlighting the state’s openness to business. “For prospective investors, our doors are wide open. We are committed to providing the necessary support for your success.”

Onwuanibe expressed optimism about the project’s impact on the local economy. “We are confident this investment will yield substantial returns, benefiting not just our company but the entire state.”

The governor reiterated his administration’s focus on creating an investor-friendly environment, promising continued infrastructure development. “We will keep building and creating the necessary infrastructure to attract more investors of Landmark’s caliber,” he assured.

The partnership between Enugu State and Landmark Africa Group is poised to transform Nike Lake Resort into a beacon of tourism and economic growth, reinforcing the state’s commitment to sustainable development and investment attraction. GMTNewsng

OCHA Brigade Shuts Down Notorious Motel in Awka, Rescues Underage Sex Workers

● Josiah Egenti

Thursday January 16 – In a decisive move against crime and immorality, the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) has shut down the infamous Happiness Guest House in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area. The raid led to the rescue of over ten suspected sex workers, including underage girls, and the arrest of individuals involved in drug peddling.

The operation was carried out following intelligence reports linking the establishment to various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, harboring underage sex workers, and serving as a hideout for armed robbers. Speaking on the development, Chief Celestine Anere, Managing Director and Secretary-General of the OCHA Brigade, expressed the government’s commitment to eradicating such vices from the state. “We will not tolerate any form of criminality or immorality in Anambra. Those found guilty will face the full wrath of the law,” he stated.

Chief Anere further warned operators of similar establishments to desist from engaging in illegal activities. “This action is a clear message to all. We will continue to crack down on any place promoting drugs and immorality. It’s time for everyone to choose a path of decency and lawfulness,” he emphasized.

Some of the rescued sex workers 

During the operation, several underage girls were rescued and handed over to relevant authorities for rehabilitation. One of the rescued victims, speaking anonymously, shared her ordeal and urged others to avoid the lure of quick money through immoral acts. “I thought I could make easy money, but it only brought me pain and regret. I’m grateful for this rescue, and I hope others learn from my experience,” she said.

Community leaders and residents have lauded the government’s swift action, urging continued efforts to rid the state of such illicit activities. A local resident, Mr. Nnamdi Okeke, praised the OCHA Brigade, saying, “This action will help restore sanity in our community. We all have a role to play in ensuring a safe and healthy society.”

Chief Anere concluded with a strong appeal to the public, particularly the youth, to steer clear of illicit drugs and immoral activities. “Our future lies in the hands of our youth. Say no to drugs, say no to crime, and say yes to a brighter, more prosperous Anambra,” he urged. GMTNewsng