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BREAKING: Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been officially announced as the presidential candidate of the Makinde-backed Turaki PDP faction.

Jonathan was, however, absent at the affirmation ceremony and has not publicly declared interest in running for the presidency in 2027.

The certificate of return was, however, given to Fred Agbedi, a sitting member of the House of Representatives from Bayelsa State, to hold in custody, pending Jonathan’s decision on whether to contest the presidency.

FISSAN Joins Workers Across Akwa Ibom to Mark 2026 May Day, Calls for Unity and Improved Welfare

FIRST MEDIA NAIJA | UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE —

The Fitters Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (FISSAN), Akwa Ibom State Council, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, joined hundreds of workers, trade unions, and affiliate bodies to commemorate the 2026 International Workers' Day celebration at the Uyo Township Stadium.

Led by its State Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Okon, the FISSAN delegation turned out in strong numbers, participating actively in the colourful march past that featured various labour unions and organized workforce groups across the state. The atmosphere at the stadium was vibrant, with banners, music, and coordinated displays underscoring the unity and strength of the labour movement.

Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the event, Comrade Okon delivered a message of solidarity to workers across Akwa Ibom and Nigeria at large. He commended their resilience amid economic challenges and reaffirmed FISSAN’s commitment to advocating for better welfare, fair remuneration, and safe working conditions.

> “Today is a reminder of the dignity of labour and the sacrifices workers continue to make for national development. We stand in solidarity with all Nigerian workers and urge government at all levels to prioritize policies that uplift the workforce,” he said.

Also lending his voice, the State Secretary of FISSAN, Comrade Harrison Udoh, emphasized the need for sustained unity among labour unions to effectively push for workers’ rights. He noted that collective action remains the strongest tool for achieving meaningful reforms.

The State Treasurer, Comrade Joseph Afaha, highlighted the importance of financial discipline and economic empowerment among workers, urging members to remain prudent and supportive of initiatives that enhance their wellbeing.

From the grassroots units, Oron Central Unit Chairman, Comrade Eteka John, praised the inclusiveness of the celebration and called for greater recognition of workers at all levels, especially those in technical and industrial sectors.

Similarly, the Ukanfun/Oruk Anam Central Unit Chairman, Comrade Ime Ben, described the event as a morale booster for workers, stressing that such gatherings reinforce a shared vision for progress and improved labour conditions.

The 2026 Workers’ Day celebration in Uyo featured an impressive march past by different labour unions, trade groups, and affiliate organizations, showcasing solidarity, discipline, and pride in the Nigerian workforce.

As the event concluded, participants expressed renewed hope for a more responsive system that acknowledges and rewards the contributions of workers, with FISSAN reaffirming its role as a steadfast advocate within the labour community.

Gunmen Abducts Over 15 Passengers on Oron–Calabar Waterway

First Media Naija

More than fifteen passengers have been abducted by suspected gunmen along the Oron–Calabar waterway, in a disturbing incident that has heightened fears over insecurity on Nigeria’s coastal transport routes.

The incident occurred on Friday, April 17, 2026, when the victims were reportedly on a return journey from Calabar, Cross River State, to Oron in Akwa Ibom State. Their boat was intercepted mid-journey by armed attackers along the river.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the assailants, believed to be sea pirates, operated with speedboats and forcefully took control of the vessel. In a shocking twist, the gunmen reportedly redirected the boat back toward Calabar with about fifteen passengers still on board, while others were left behind. The exact circumstances surrounding the operation remain unclear.

Preliminary information suggests that many of the passengers were young travelers. There are also unconfirmed reports that some may have been candidates heading for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), though authorities have yet to verify this claim.

As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued by the Akwa Ibom State Government, Cross River State Government, or the joint security task force responsible for securing the waterways in the region.

The Oron–Calabar waterway remains a vital transport link for commuters and traders, especially given the challenges associated with road travel in the area. However, recurring attacks by sea pirates continue to raise alarm among residents and regular users of the route.

Stakeholders are calling for urgent intervention, including intensified security patrols and coordinated enforcement efforts, to curb the activities of criminal elements and restore confidence in the safety of the waterway.

Tinubu approves 2026 budget, extends 2025 implementation to June. Details below

OKOBO LAWMAKER, BASSEY PIUS BASSEY, DELIVERS NEW CLASSROOMS AND WATER TO ST. SIMON PRIMARY SCHOOL

The Honourable Member representing Okobo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on Environment, Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, has delivered a newly constructed classroom block alongside a solar-powered water system to St. Simon Primary School in Ebighi-Ube, marking a significant milestone in grassroots development.

The project, completed barely three weeks after his Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme held on March 24, 2026, underscores the lawmaker’s commitment to translating promises into tangible results for his constituents.

The newly completed three-classroom block, equipped with modern toilet facilities, is expected to significantly improve the learning environment for pupils who previously contended with inadequate infrastructure and poor sanitation. The development provides a more conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning, while restoring dignity and safety within the school system.

In addition to the educational infrastructure, the lawmaker also facilitated the installation of a solar-powered water system to address the long-standing challenge of access to clean and safe water in the community. The facility is designed to serve both the school and residents of Ebighi-Ube, improving public health and overall quality of life.

Community leaders, parents, and pupils have described the intervention as a “double blessing,” noting that it addresses two critical needs, education and access to potable water. Many expressed gratitude for what they described as timely and impactful leadership.

Speaking on the development,Ward Persnal Assistant to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, Hon Cornelius Eton highlighted that such initiatives are crucial in bridging the gap between rural and urban communities, particularly in areas of basic infrastructure and social amenities as encapsulated in the Arise Agenda.

The projects further reinforce Hon. Bassey’s development philosophy, which prioritizes education, sustainable infrastructure, and community well-being as essential drivers of progress.

With the successful delivery of these projects, Ebighi-Ube now stands as a testament to responsive representation, as constituents continue to witness the direct impact of purposeful leadership in Okobo.

OKOBO IS RISING! 🚀

The scorecard is clear. The impact is visible. The vision is alive.

Under the leadership of Hon. George Henshaw, Okobo LGA is witnessing a “Harvest of Projects”—from massive infrastructure development to empowerment, security, and inclusive governance.

🏗️ Roads to progress are being built
👥 Lives are being empowered
🔐 Peace and security are strengthened
📈 The local economy is growing

This is not just governance… this is deliberate development with results.

Let’s continue to support this vision and pray for the successful completion of all ongoing projects.

Visible Projects. Real Impact. Sustainable Progress.

🤝 Support the Vision
🙏 Pray for Completion
🚀 Okobo is Rising!

2027: APC Announces Nomination and Expression of Interest Form Fees

The (APC) has released the approved fees for nomination and expression of interest forms for aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections in Nigeria.

The announcement was made on March 27, 2026, during the party’s National Convention, setting the tone for early political alignments and preparations within the ruling party.

The breakdown of the fees is as follows:

President – ₦200,000,000 (Two Hundred Million Naira only)

Senator – ₦100,000,000 (One Hundred Million Naira only)

House of Representatives – ₦70,000,000 (Seventy Million Naira only)

Governorship – ₦150,000,000 (One Hundred and Fifty Million Naira only)

State House of Assembly – ₦20,000,000 (Twenty Million Naira only)

The development signals the commencement of internal party processes as interested aspirants begin consultations, coalition-building, and grassroots mobilization across the country.

Observers say the cost of forms may shape the level of participation, particularly among young and emerging politicians, while also influencing the dynamics of competition within the party.

As political activities continue to gather momentum nationwide, attention is expected to shift to other major parties and their respective nomination guidelines.

Call to Action:
What’s your take on these fees? Do you think they encourage serious contenders or limit participation? Share your thoughts in the comments, like and follow FIRST MEDIA NAIJA for more credible updates, and don’t forget to repost to keep others informed.

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Hon. Robinson Uwak Hails Okobo Lawmaker’s Empowerment Drive as Blueprint for Grassroots Transformation

…Calls for Replication of Model Across Akwa Ibom

Former member representing Okobo/Oron/Mbo/Udung Uko/UrueOffong Oruko Federal Constituency at the Nigerian National Assembly and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Robinson Uwak, has lauded the member representing Okobo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, describing his recent empowerment initiative as a practical blueprint for grassroots transformation and responsive governance.

Speaking as Chairman of the Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme held in Okobo Local Government Area, Hon. Uwak commended the Okobo lawmaker for demonstrating “people-oriented leadership anchored on results rather than rhetoric.” He noted that the empowerment programme, which featured the distribution of various items and support packages to constituents, areflects a deep understanding of the people’s needs and a strong commitment to improving livelihoods.

According to the Uduonyi Oro, effective representation goes beyond lawmaking to include direct interventions that uplift constituents economically and socially. Hon. Uwak emphasized that Hon. Bassey’s approach aligns with the true essence of democracy, where the dividends of governance are felt at the grassroots.

“What we are witnessing here today is not just an empowerment programme, but a deliberate and strategic investment in the people,” Uwak stated. “This is the kind of leadership that inspires hope, restores confidence in governance, and sets a standard for others to emulate.”

The former federal lawmaker described the initiative as timely, especially amid prevailing economic challenges, noting that such interventions help cushion the effects of hardship while promoting self-reliance among beneficiaries.

He urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the items and opportunities provided, stressing that empowerment must translate into productivity and sustainable economic growth. He also called on other public office holders across the state and beyond to adopt similar people-centered initiatives that directly impact their constituents.

Hon. Uwak further highlighted that consistent constituency briefings, such as the one organized by Hon. Bassey, strengthen accountability and transparency in governance. Keeping the people informed about projects, achievements, and challenges, he said, fosters trust and builds a stronger bond between leaders and the electorate.

The event drew political stakeholders, community leaders, youth groups, women’s organizations, and party faithful from across Okobo and the wider Oro Nation, all of whom applauded the initiative, describing it as impactful and timely.

In his remarks, Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey reaffirmed his commitment to delivering quality representation, stating that his mandate remains rooted in service, inclusiveness, and development. He assured constituents that the empowerment programme would not be a one-off initiative but part of a sustained effort to improve the standard of living in Okobo.

Other notable stakeholders at the event included the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mkpisong Frank Archibong; Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Chief Udeme Otong; Senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Senator Ekong Sampson; former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Chief Peter Linus Umoh; former Deputy Speaker, Chief Felicia Bassey. They noted that the programme not only addressed immediate economic needs but also reinforced the importance of leadership that listens, engages, and delivers tangible results.

As the programme concluded, the atmosphere was filled with optimism and renewed confidence, with many beneficiaries expressing hope that such initiatives would continue to drive development and prosperity across Okobo and beyond.