Ijaw Foundation Inc., USA Fourth Annual Convention Brochure May 2014 by TBG London

Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Profile of Chief (Barr.) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike Supervising Minister of Education

An outstanding administrator, leader and politician, Barr. Wike was born to the family of Reverend and Mrs. NlemanyaWike of Rumuepirikom community, Rivers State. Chief (Barr.)Ezenwo Nyesom Wike holds degrees in Political and Administrative Studies as well as Law. After a brief stint with private legal practice, Chief E.N. Wike was elected twice as the Executive Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. He served his two terms in office from 1999 to 2002 and 2004 to 2007. While in office, Chief E.N. Wike also served as Deputy President, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, in 2004 and was later elected the President of ALGON. He also represented Africa as a member of the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Local Governments Forum. Between October 26, 2007 and May 28th 2011, Chief E.N. Wike served as the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt and was appointed the Director-General of Governor Amaechi’s re-election Campaign Organization. On the 14th of July, 2011, Chief E, N Wike was appointed and sworn-in as the Honourble Minister of State for Education. Following the cabinet shake-up on September 12,2013 Chief (Barr.) Wike emerged the nation's Supervising Minister of Education. Since assuming duty as the Minister of State for Education, Chief (Barr) E. N. Wike has made remarkable impact in the basic education sub-sector, spear-heading a nationwide reform of the nation’s education system. The fundamental programmes that have been driven by the Minister of State for Education include the creation of access to quality education for 9million Almajiri children in Northern Nigeria through the construction of dedicated schools in affected states, construction of basic education vocational training schools for out-ofschool children in Southern Nigeria and Special Girl-Education Schools for less privileged girls in 16 states of the country. The Minister of State for Education is also championin g the free distribution of books across the nation. Over 60 Millions of textbooks and library resource materials have been distributed since 2011. Determined to ensure that teachers have the capacity to deliver on the Transform- ation Agenda of the Jonathan Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

administration, the Minister has initiated the training of close to 500,000 basic education teachers and school administrators. Since taking over as the nation’s Supervising Minister of Education, Chief (Barr.)Wike has taken proactive measures to resolve key challenges in the basic and tertiary education levels. His efforts have been recognized by stakeholders within and beyond the shores of Nigeria. He was conferred with the Best Performing Minister, 2011 by the Nigerian Pilot Newspapers, African Network Campaign on Education For All, ANCEFA, awarded him the Policy Champion Award for Africa to recognize his roles in the creation of quality access for Nigeria Children. The Abuja Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, conferred on him a ‘Recognition Award for Reviving Basic Education in Nigeria’, while the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, conferred on him ‘Award of Performance in the Education Sector’. The Honourable Minister of State for Education has received several other awards from reputable stakeholders in the education sector who appreciate his investments of energy and intellectual resources in the system. On Tuesday December 17, the entire women journalists in Nigeria under the aegis of the Nigeria Association Women Journalists, NAWOJ, honoured Barr. Wike for his performance with the title; ‘Dream Child’ of the Association for 2013. A holder of several traditional chieftaincy titles, Chief (Barr.) E.N. Wike is happily married to Justice (Mrs.) Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike, a High Court Judge with the Rivers State Judiciary, and blessed with three lovely children; Jordan, Joaquin, and Jazmyne. 5

Hon Kingsley K. Kuku

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Honorable Henry Seriake Dickson Executive Governor, Bayelsa State

HONOURABLE HENRY SERAKE DICKSON was born on 28th day of January 1966 in Toru-Ofua Town of Sagbarra Local Government Area of Bayelsa State Nigeria to the family of Mr. and Mrs. Nanaye Dickson of Orliz and a descendent of the famous King Kpadia Royal House of Tarakin Kingdom. Hon. H. S. Dickson attended Kokobitional Primary School, Toru-Omua from 1972 to 1978 where he got his First School Learning Certificate and proceeded to Government Secondary School, Toro-Ebini in 1978 to 1983 and obtained his West African School Certificate (WASCIGGE) In 1988, Hon. H. S. Dickson gained admission to Rivers State University of Science and Technology Port Harcourt to read Law from where he graduated with LL. B (HONS) in 1992. He then proceeded in 1983 to earn his Bachelors in Law (B. L. HONS) from the Nigeria Law School, Lagos whereupon he was called to the Nigerian Bar the same year. Hon. H. S. Dickson joined the Nigeria Police Force now The Nigeria Police, 1986 in service to his father land and upon his graduation in 1993 was appointed a Cadet Assistant Superintended of Police in 1994 whereupon he proceeded to Nigerian Police Academy Karo for Officer Training. During the course of his training his voluntarily withdrew his service after close to a decade as a Police Officer to practice the profession of law. His voluntary withdraw was duly approved by both the Inspector-General of Police as well as the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command at the time. As a Lawyer, he worked with SERENA DAVID DOKUBO & CO. holding the position of Associate Solicitor from 1994 to 1995 and moved to ALUKO & OYEBODE a prominent Law firm in Lagos also as an Associate Solicitor in 1990 to 1996 after which he founded the Law firm of SERIAKE DICKSON & CO. in Port Harcourt and later Yenagoa and became Managing Solicitor from 1996 to 2006. Politically and Professionally Hon. H. S. Dickson has held many positions some of these are mentioned below. He was elected Pioneer Publicity Secretary, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Yenagoa from 1986 to 1995. He was elected the States Chairman, Atlanta for Democracy (AD) 1990 to 2000 and elected National Legal Advisor, Alliance for Democracy 2000 to 2002. He was equally elected National Legal Advisor of the foremost an-Ijaw SocioCultural and Political group called the Ijaw National Congress (INC) 2001 to 2003. He became a Member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) Nigeria Bar Association in 2004 to 2006 representing Bayelsa State. Considering his track record and achievements Hon. Dickson as Appointed the Honorable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Bayelsa State from 2006 to 2007 by His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan GCON the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who at the time was the Governor of Bayelsa State. As Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for 8

Justice Bayelsa State, he strove to reposition the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary in Bayelsa State by initiating several reforms policies and programs. He also served in different professional statutory bodies. He was a member of the Council of Legal Education in Nigeria, a member of the Body of Banchoro of Nigeria, a member of the Body of Attorney-General of Nigeria, a member of the Bayelsa State Security Council and Vice Chairman, Bayelsa State Judicial Service Commission. As a result of the positive impact he made on the people and based on his long years of committed and dedicated service to the state and the nation at large he was RETURNED UNOPPOSED and elected in 2007, as Honorable Member representing Sagcama Ekeremor Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State in the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Abuja. In the House of Representatives where he represents Sagcama Ekeremor Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, Hon. Dickson serves as the Chairman, House Committee on Justice and also a Member of sever committees. Hon. H. S. Dickson is a Member of the Nigeria Bar Association, International Bar Association, Chartered Institute of Arbitrations (UK) Nigerian Chapter and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria. Hon. Dickson happily married with children and holds the traditional title of OLOKODAU of ORUA. His hobbies includes Swimming, Reading, jogging, Wrestling, Boxing and Badminton. Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Akwa Ibom State

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Delta State

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Edo State

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Imo State

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Ondo State

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Rivers State

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Elder Godsday Peter Orubebe, CON Honorable Minister, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs Elder Peter Godsday Orubebe, CON is the immediate past Honorable Minister, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs (MNDA) and Member Federal Executive Council, Federal Republic of Nigeria. He holds the National Honor as the Commander, Order of the Niger (CON)conferred by His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR. In order to actualize the 7 Point Agenda of the Yar’adua Administration, the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs was created in 2008. Elder Orubebe, CON was appointed as the pioneer Honorable Minister of State for the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs. He worked assiduously, to establish the infrastructure, the human structure and the “info” structure that is required to enable the Ministry turnaround the decades of neglect and underdevelopment that have been the bane of a region that is responsible for 80% of Nigeria’s revenue. In recognition of his excellent performance as the Honorable Minister of State, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, appointed Elder Orubebe, CON Honorable Minister, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs in 2010 and he is currently serving in this capacity. In 2008, Elder Orubebe, CON was appointed Honorable Minister, National Planning Commission (NPC) and Deputy Chair, National Planning Council. During his stewardship at the NPC, he focused on organizational development and restructuring of the NPC to better galvanize the human resource of the organization for optimal efficiency and effectiveness. He was instrumental in NPC moving from a rented office accommodation into its own befitting property. This saved the Commission a lot of resources that is now channeled into staff capacity building. He contributed to formulating socio-economic development oriented policies which formed the backbone of the Vision 20:2020 agenda of Late President Yar’adua’s government. Between 2007 and 2008, Elder Orubebe, CON served as the Honorable Minister, Special Duties performing delineated Presidential functions according to the directives of Mr. President. Working with late President Yar’adua, Elder Orubebe, CON contributed to the President’s Seven-Point Agenda through a series of routine comprehensive reports on government activities. These reports were submitted to Mr. President every three months, while Elder Orubebe, CON served in this direct policy advisory role. He was also a member of a special committee headed by then Vice-President, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, who worked on the amnesty solution to the Niger-Delta crises. The Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

amnesty programme is been successfully implemented and has restored peace to the Niger Delta region. From 2004 to 2005, Elder Orubebe, CON was the Special Adviser to the Delta State governor on Urban and Regional Planning where he focused on building a comprehensive urban renewal and development plan. Elder Orubebe, CON served as second Member, State Education Board, Supervisory Councilor in charge of Education and Chairman, Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State. He changed the landscape of the local government, by ensuring the development of infrastructure including schools, water, rural electrification and health care facilities. The health care center he built in 1992, is what is still serving women, children and his entire community in Burutu Local Government Area, today. He holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Lagos. He has attended a number of continuing education courses. He was a Student Union Leader and served as a Public Relations Officer and a member of the Parliament during his time at the University of Lagos. Elder Orubebe, CON is a philanthropist and an advocate of peaceful co-existence, he loves to read generally &the bible in particular. He manages a farm with fish, plantain & cassava plantations and many other produce in his village, as a hobby. He is married and blessed with children. 15

Hon. Dakuku Adolphus Peterside (MP) Member Representing Andoni/Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency, House of Representatives. He is both an outstanding young leader and an accomplished scientist. He is an enigma to several young people who look up to him for inspiration. He has, probably, earned for himself an enviable fellowship which no young person of his political age has. He is the leader’s leader, a biomedical scientist who has a rare analytical mind and sharp diagnostic wits. Born in 1970 to a middle class family of Senibo Adolphus Peterside, a scion of a famous warrior precipitate merchant who is called SeniboNibilaghPeterside in Biriye Polo,Opobo; Dakuku Adolphus Peterside grew up in Azumini, Aba, both in present day Abia State, Kaduna and Port Harcourt at various times. Hon. DakukuPeterside returned to Rivers State University of Science and technology, Port Harcourt and earned a Masters Degree in Management. He is presently a doctoral candidate of the University of Port Harcourt. When he graduated from RSUST, he joined public service which quickly became a passion. He was first appointed Special Assistant to Governor of Rivers State (Dr. Peter Odili) on Student and Youth Affairs in August 1999. It was in this position that he perfected the Art & Science of bridge building between the youth and the leaders, between today and the future. It was at his demanding office as Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Rivers State that he was invited to serve as Chairman, Opobo-Nkoro LGA in December 2002. At the LGA he proved that he is an administrator per excellence, an achiever and a scientist with the mind of a politician. He earned the prestigious sobriquet of the BEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMAN of his time in just six months. Several years after he left the chairmanship of Opobo/Nkoro LGA, he is still being celebrated as a human machine who accomplished rare feats and brought back hope in grassroots governance. He contributed alongside others to establish the ‘Vanguard of Opobo Nation’ (VON) in 1994 and was its secretary. He also served as the National President of VON From 20002008. Hon. DakukuPeterside, not being a disciple of inactivity, was appointed Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Works after his tenure as the chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Council. It is to his credit that he brought novelty, ingenuity and credibility to public infrastructure works. He kept contractors on their toes and gave Rivers people value for money on all projects he supervised. In 2005 Hon. Dakuku went further to pursue another of his passion –leadership grooming. This he did through an 16

NGO he founded earlier –Development and Leadership Institute (DLI). The rapid growth and transformation of DLI to a leading NGO in its area of work-leadership grooming and development work is as a result of the Midas Touch of DakukuPeterside. In just 12 months the World Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (WANGO) recognized DLI as a leader in its sector in Nigeria and by 2009 DLI was on the Board of all Key International Committees of WANGO.. It is on record that globally we need transformation minded leaders of his stature to safely berth us in the next generation. Today we have too many people with high sounding words, and too few corresponding actions. In 2011 he was elected to the National Assembly to represent – Andoni, Opobo and Nkoro Federal Constituency. He was thereafter appointed Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream). Hon. Peterside is an ardent Christian, a loving father, and a statesman to the core. A detribalized Nigerian with an unflinching repute for transparency and accountability in governance. His five-point legislative focuses include: •Infrastructural Development of the Niger Delta •Good governance, Transparency and Accountability in Governance •Education •Youth Empowerment •Environment Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Major Lancelot Anyanya (Rtd.) Board Chairman, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA)

Major Lancelot Owajironiche Anyanya (Rtd) hails from Ataba in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, of the Ijaw ethnic stock. Major Anyanya obtained his First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) from the Army Children’s School, GRA, Port Harcourt before proceeding to the Nigerian Military School (NMS) Zaria and the prestigious Nigerian Defense Academy, Kaduna (NDA) where he graduated with an upper second class Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree in History, winning the Prize for the Best Graduating Cadet in history. He later obtained a Masters Degree in International Law & Diplomacy (MILD) from the University of Lagos. His insatiable appetite for learning led him to acquire more academic and professional education, which earned him relevant certification including a PostGraduate Certificate in National Security from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel, a Certificate in Seaport and Coastguard Management from South Korea. He is also an alumnus of the prestigious Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government (KSG) Senior Executive Programme on National and International Security. In 2011, he was conferred with a honorary doctorate degree in International Security and Diplomacy by the Commonwealth University of Belize. During the course of a significant and positively impactful public service career, Lancelot had stints at different units and assignments within the Nigerian Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Army Intelligence Corps, the elite Guards’ Brigade as well as the Presidency (Office of the National Security Adviser), during which his reputation as a great thinker, strategist, beacon of sacrificial professionalism and exemplary performance driven leadership was greatly enhanced. Some of the notable assignments that earned him national and international acclaim include serving as Member of the Committee on the Establishment of Nigeria’s Presidential Command, Communication and Crisis Control Centre (PC4) and pioneer Secretary, Presidential Implementation Committee on Maritime Safety and Security (PICOMSS}. He was also a member of the Nigerian Team to the Tripartite Meeting (US, UK and Nigeria) on Gulf of Guinea Energy Security Strategy, and served as Member/Secretary of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) /Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA)Working Group of Experts on the establishment of an Integrated Regional Coast Guard Network for West and Central Africa. His extraordinary commitment to the discharge of his duties contributed immensely to Nigeria’s compliance with the global deadline of July 1 2004, with respect to the implementation of the provisions of the International Ship and Port Facilities Security (ISPS) Code. Highly respected by superiors, peers and subordinates, Major Anyanya’s impressive and rich public service pedigree amongst others, must have underpinned his recent appointment as Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency(NOSDRA) by President Goodluck Jonathan. Since his voluntary retirement from the military in December 2007, Lancelot has been engaged in private business, deploying his multi-faceted skills set to great use while still contributing to national development by serving on various occasions as resource person to diverse public and private sector entities. He is the Managing Director, Vortex Communications (Nigeria) Limited, Spear & Shield Security Consult Limited. Lancelot Anyanya is a notable philanthropist and social entrepreneur, who support many philanthropic and social (not-for-profit) endeavours. He is a Trustee of the Solomon Giwa Amu Foundation (SGAF), Initiative for Diaspora Knowledge Transfer (IDKT), Initiative for National Unity and Integration in Nigeria and Member, Bayelsa State Diaspora Mobilisation and Contact Committee. In these times in our country where there is a dearth of truly good men, Lancelot stands out as one of the few remaining. 17

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FRIDAY MAY 9, 2014 WELCOMING RECEPTION 6PM – 10PM Master of Ceremony 6:00pm 7:00pm

Arrival of Invited Guests and Awardees Opening Prayer Opening Remarks – Amasenibo Steve Benstowe, Chairman, Caretaker Committee, Ijaw Foundation.

7:15pm

Welcoming Remarks - Representative of the Mayor of Houston - Representative of the Texas State Government - Representative of the Nigeria Government

SATURDAY MAY 10, 2014 MORNING SESSION- - 9AM – 12:00PM Building Human Capacity for the Socio-Economic Development of the Niger Delta Comrade Shedrack Fubara & Ms. Thelma Horton---- Masters of Ceremony 9:00am

*Call to order and Introduction of Special Guest of Honor, Chief Host& Special Guests – Amasenibo Steve Benstowe,Chairman Caretaker Committee, Ijaw Foundation. His Excellency: Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GCFR), President & Commander-in-Chief Federal Republic of Nigeria

Chief Henry Seriake Dickson, Governor, Bayelsa State *Opening Prayer – Bishop Inye Hart *National Anthems: United States, The Star Spangled Banner Nigeria, Arise, O compatriots 9:30 am

*Opening Remarks -Convention declared open by His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. *Opening Remarks – Bayelsa State Governor, His Excellency, Gov. Dickson Seriake *Opening Remarks – Hon. Minister of Education, Chief Nyesom Wike

10:15 am

*Introduction of the Panel Moderators: Engr. Ben Okoro – Moderator, Ijaw Nation Forum (INF) & Dr. Young Fiabema

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PAPER PRESENTATIONS BY SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS: 10:30 – 10:45 am

10:45 – 10:55

Comrade(Engr.) Charles A. Ambaowei, MNSE, Acting President, Ijaw National Congress “State of Ijaw Nation and the Quest for Justice, Equity and True Fiscal Federalism” Moderator comments – Introduction of next presenter

10:55 – 11:10 am

Major Lancelot Anyanya (Rtd), Board Chairman – National Oil Spill Detection & Response Agency (NOSDRA)

11:10 – 11:20am

Moderator comments – Introduction of next presenter

11:20 – 11:30am

International Water Company - Sponsored Presentation

11:30-11:45noon 11:45-12noon

Questions and wrap-up: Engr. Ben Okoro – Moderator Closing Remarks – Master of Ceremony

12:30 – 1:45pm

LUNCH BREAK

SATURDAY MAY 10, 2014 AFTERNOON SESSION - 2PM – 5PM Building Human Capacity for the Socio-Economic Development of the Niger Delta Mr. Anthony Otokito & Ms. Thelma Horton - Masters of Ceremony 2:00pm 2:15pm

*Call to order and Introduction of Special Guest of Honor *Recognition of Invited Guests and Introduction of Moderator: Dr.Young Fiabema – Moderator

PRESENTATIONS BY SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS: 2:30 – 2:45pm Hon. (Dr).Kingsley K. Kuku, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta & Chairman, Presidential Amnesty Program “Presidential Amnesty Program: Successes,Challenges and future of the program” 2:45-2:55pm Moderator comments – Introduction of next presenter 2:55-3:10pm Presenter: Prof Mobalaji Aluko, Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Nigeria “Building Human Capacity for the Socio-Economic Development of the Niger Delta” 3:10-3:20pm Moderator comments – Introduction of next presenter

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3:20-3:35pm 3:35 – 3:45pm

Presenter: Pastor P. Z Aginighan, Former Managing Director NDDC “Addressing the Educational Foundation in Ijaw Nation” Moderator comments – Introduction of next presenter

3:45-4:00pm

Sandra Dafiaghor, PhD, Vice Chair, Nigerians in Diaspora Organization, Americas “Transformation Agenda: The role of Niger Deltans in the Diaspora”

4:00-4:10pm

Moderator comments – Introduction of next presenter

4:10-4:20pm

Julong Dredging & Mining Machinery Co. Ltd Sponsored Presentation

4:20-4:30pm 4:30pm

*Questions and wrap-up – Dr. Young Fiabema – Moderator *Introduction of Launching Chairman: *Call for Donations to the Educational Trust Fund *Closing Remarks – Master of Ceremony

5:00pm

SATURDAY MAY 10, 2014 THE IJAW FOUNDATION FUNDRAISING GALA: 8PM – 2AM Building Human Capacity for the Socio-Economic Development of the Niger Delta Dr. Onimi Wilcox - Masterof Ceremony 8:00pm Call to order and Introduction of Special Guest of Honor Opening Prayer National Anthems: United States Nigeria Opening Remarks – by the Special Guest of Honor 8:30 DINNER IS SERVED….Light Music Introduction of Special Guest Speaker: 8:30 – 9pm Elder Peter Godsday Orubebe, Former Minister, Ministry of Niger Delta “Good Governance: A Panacea for Niger DeltaSocio-economic Development” 9:00 – 9:10pm Wike 9:10 – 9:20pm 9:20 – 9:30pm Directors.

Introduction of Chief Launcher: Hon. Minister of Education: Chief Hon. (Barr) Nyesom Launching Chairman’s Remarks Amaopusenibo (Dr.) Rueben Jaja, Former Chairman, Ijaw Foundation Board of “Ijaw Foundation Vision and Commitment”

10:00 -

Call for Donations to the Educational Trust Fund Announcement of Donations to Date and Closing Remarks – Dr. May Banigo, Vice Chairman.

10:00 tillt 2am

AWARDS, DANCE AND ENTERTAINMENT

SUNDAY, MAY 11, 2014 THE IJAW FOUNDATION BUSINESS MEETING & ELECTION OF NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS 9AM – 2PM Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Ijaw Foundation Inc., USA

Scholarship Program List Of Awardees Source: www.fuotuoke.edu.ng The Students whose names appear below have, on the basis of their academic performances, qualified for and been awarded the Ijaw Foundation Scholarship for 2013/2014. The value of the Scholarship is Ninety Thousand (90,000) Naira broken down as follows I. School fees and charges N50,000.00 II. Books/Equipment N30,000.00 III. Accommodation N10,000.00 The University Administration will, in conjunction with course Lecturers and Heads of Department of the awardees determine the books and equipment needs of the beneficiaries, procure and then distribute them to the students. By reason of this scholarship these meritorious students shall not pay school fees for the 2013/2014 academic year. Those who have paid will have their fees and charges refunded. Refund on item iii (accommodation) above is dependent on the availability of hostel accommodation. The Ijaw foundation is an Association of Academics, Consultants and Business men of Ijaw extraction currently residing in the United State of America. This gesture is to encourage hard work and academic excellence in universities in Nigeria. List Of 50 Awardees, Ijaw Foundation Scholarship A: Faculty Of Humanities And Social Sciences Accounting And Finance 1 Akolam Stella Tochukwu 2 Biaze Preye Kelly 3 Dimaro Ezonasuode 4 Easterday Imomotimi 5 Nieseimo Eniye 6 Eweke Gamaliel Oghenerugba 7 Kpolode Philip Oghenevwo English And Communication Studies 8 Fegha Ebinipere 9 Karamor Samuel Eyerinkabowei 10 Lemanya Gospel Gospel 11 Loveday Dan 12 Nimbo Felix Dickson Dickson 13 Okuboarere Joseph Tamaraumiene 14 Omonigbaubo Jordan 15 Oruama Anyam Wilchard Economics And Development Studies 16 Atimapre Tuku 17 Awharive Faith 18 Robbert Akpojoukumo 22

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History And International Relation 19 Awudu Godspower Bietoru 20 Collins Tarilado 21 Dibor Benemor Ben Political Science And Strategic Studies 22 Amangele Raphael Femi 23 Inibie Victoria Tariebi 24 Justus Austin Osain Sociology And Anthropology 25 Anthony Eden Robinson 26 Ferebei King-Pepple Akpumi 27 Japhet Zikeyi Williams 28 Otobo Daniel Inimeya 29 Uwom Daniel Agbakupe 30 Wisdom Ozi Esther B: Faculty Of Science Biochemistry 31 Peter Akpos Chemistry 32 John Isabella Evans Computer Science And Informatics 33 Akpaingolo Barafakumo 34 Didi Chimdi George 35 Emareyo Obakpororo Kenoly 36 Ikinako Legborsi 37 Reuben Nengimote Godwin Microbiology 38 Ake Iyidamiebhon Bertha 39 Akpoti Janet 40 Ejewentotor Elohor 41 Iroulor Benjamin Anariochi 42 Manga Daopu Taribo 43 Perewari Doubra Otis 44 Solomon Sophia Oghenebrume 45 Umogbai Deborah 46 Williams Nanaboemi Physics With Electronics And Power 47 Asaboro Joshua Ovoke 48 Chimezie Grace Odirichukwu 49 Eniame Goodluck Oromena 50 Ikogi Allen Ikogi Amangi-Edomo Andabi Sar, ERSSO For Registrar Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Speech Presented by Stephen Benstowe; Chairman, Caretaker Committee of

the Board Ijaw Foundation Inc. at the fourth Convention/Fundraiser, holding at Hilton Southwest Hotel , Houston, May 9-11, 2014 Ladies and Gentlemen, On behalf of the caretaker committee and members of the Ijaw Foundation Inc., I thank you for honoring our invitation to attend this convention/fundraiser. We started this program since 2011 and this one makes it the fourth. The Ijaw Foundation was formed in 2003, with goals of helping the Ijaw people to achieve milestones that will help bring them out of poverty, neglect and backwardness. I cannot mention all of the issues that had held the Ijaws back in the union of Nigeria, but the foundation after its formation in 2003, decided to focus on the educational development of Ijaw Students in institutions of higher learning. This focus of the foundation ties into the overall aspiration of our umbrella organization the Ijaw National Congress, a pan Ijaw organization whose aim is to emancipate Ijaws from oppression, poverty and to bring Ijaw issues to the forenationally and worldwide. Ijaws are peaceful and friendly people and we need to make friends that will continue to support our aspirations. A scholarship program was conceived by the board of directors under the leadership of Dr. Reuben Jaja (2010-2013); this scholarshipprogram can only be achieved by organizing annual conventions and fundraiser to support the scheme and Ijaw students. The federal University Otuoke in Bayelsa State of Nigeria was chosen as a pilot. The University was chosen because we want to start our support in the first federal university established in the only homogeneous state of the Ijaw people. We use the University`s administration to identify Ijaw students that are eligible to benefit from the money raised annually. We hope to use the successes at Otuoke and extend same to other Nigerian Universities,where Ijaw students are pursuing studies in different disciplines. The funds realized in this year’s convention, will support existing scholarships and afford new opportunities for other students. Every year, we carefully choose a theme that reflects our concerns in Ijaw communities of the Niger Delta, this year, the topic is “Building human capacity for the socio-economic development of the Niger Delta” According to Dr Rueben Jaja “We choose the theme because of our core beliefs in the: 1. Power of literacy to end poverty, injustice, discrimination and violence 2. Power of literacy to strengthen peace, democracy and prosperity 3. Power of literacy to transform lives, families, communities and societies 4. Power of literacy to reduce high infant mortality and preventable infectious diseases, and 5. Power of literacy in adapting to the challenges of globalization and technology This is a major event designed to build a lasting foundation for our great organization” It is expected that we shall ponder on the theme throughout this convention and individually reflect on it for the improvement and development of the Ijaw people. Despite the fact that this convention isbeing organized by the Ijaws in diaspora, it should be seen as a gathering of Nigerians in diaspora committed to supporting the development of our dear country. We as Nigerians have in recent times increased 24

ourparticipations in the activities of Nigeria associations in diaspora such as Association of Nigeria Nationals in diaspora (ANNID) and Nigeria Diaspora organization (NIDO) as well as other regional and ethnic unions. We particularly enjoin Nigerians to continue our unity through these platforms to promote our cultural and traditional bonds, portray our original country and repatriate knowledge that will help in all areas of development. We should not see our Sojourn in Diaspora as a neglect of our origin; our origin is the beginning of the journey on earth. Therefore, we use this opportunity to salute all Nigerians that have made us proud in diaspora; your successes have continued to place Nigeria on the map of Nations. In this gathering today, we have invited guests specifically from our home country Nigeria, they are here to support the Ijaw Foundation; they are not only supporting Ijaw Foundation, but Nigerians in general. For four years, we have had this fundraiser, we are currently supporting 50 students on scholarship at Federal University Otuoke, and we are hoping that after this convention/fundraiser, we may be able to increase the number and possibly move to other Nigeria Universities. Our interest in Educational development is in line with President Goodluck Jonathan’s Transformational agenda on education. I will end this short speech by thanking all my committee members and their families; especially Dr. May Banigo, Amabo Mcharry, Julius Enarusai, Chris Abili, Chief (Dr.) Chris Ekiyor, Shedrack Fubara,Tony Otokito , Andrew Isiayi , Jenkins Ebeware, Timi Ogun and Dr Sotonye Briggs for the wonderful work they did to makethis convention a reality. In all, I thank God by this prayer/song written by Isaac Watts, 16741748: O God, our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come, Our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal home. The good lord has been our help and will continue to be helping the Ijaw Foundation and Ijaws in general to succeed. Thank you. Amasenibo Stephen Benstowe, Distinguished Title Citizen of Grand Bonny Kingdom. Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Prof. Bolaji Aliko Vice Chancellor Federal University Otuoke

He is an activist and frequent commen tator on Nigerian and African affairs. He was recently (February 2011) appointed as the ViceChancellor (ie University President) of the Federal University, Otuoke, in Bayeissa State of Nigeria, one of nine new federal universities established by the Federal Government. Professor Aluko was born April 2, 1955: in Lagos, Nigeria)

was a professor of Chemical Engineering at Howard University, Washington, DC and was Chair of its department from 1994-2002. With an BSc degree (1976) in Chemical Engineering from the University of Ife (Nigeria; now Obafemi Awolowo University), he also attended Imperial College, University of London; University of California, Santa Barbara; and State University of New York, Buffalo (for graduate and post-doc studies). He has had sabbatical teaching and research stints at various times at the University of Washington, (Seattle; Materials Science Department): the University of Maryland (College Park: Chemical Engineering), and the University of Ado-Ekiti (Nigeria: Mechanical Engineering Department). He started teaching at Howard University in August 1984. His research interests are mathematical modeling, chemical reaction engineering, electronic materials processing, energy systems, information technology and education pedagogy. He is presently President/CEO of Alondex Applied Technologies, LLC: one time Lead Consultant and International Coordinator of the LEAD Program at the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Nigeria: and Principal Academic Constulant and Member of the Board of AfriHUB (Nig.) Ltd., a ICT resource provider for universities in Nigeria.

FUO classrooms and office buildings

Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Amasenibo Stephen J Benstowe Chairman, Care-taker Committee

“ Stephen J Benstowe, a native of Bonny in Rivers State, has been in forefront for the unity of Nigerians in Diaspora with the aim of supporting rapid growth back in Nigeria, he has used his association to see Nigeria image propagated in more positive view internationally. He has been involved with National and regional organizations of Nigeria, brainstorming on how Nigeria will move forward. As Chairman of “Ijaw foundation Inc. Caretaker Committee of the board”, he has advocated stronger solutions to end poverty in Niger delta and improved regional security in Nigeria.

He is a seasoned marine engineer, projects manager, safety and environmental consultant, strong community development advocate. He holds the most distinguished title of “Ama-Senibo” of Grand Bonny Kingdom, which places him in high rankings in the protocols and Administration of the Kingdom after the King and the High Chiefs.

He is a seasoned marine engineer, projects manager, safety and environmental consultant, strong Engineers, Philadelphia Maritime Society and a community development advocate and an Registered Engineer. accomplished intellectual. He holds the most distinguished title of “Ama-Senibo” He holds membership of prestigious international of Grand Bonny Kingdom, which places him in high professional organizations; a member of the Society rankings in the protocols and Administration of the of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, American Kingdom after the King and the High Chiefs. He lives Society of Safety Engineers, Nigeria Society of in New Jersey, and is married with Children. 26

Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Dr. May Banigo Vice-Chairman, Care-taker Committee

Born to late Warisenibo Rowland Idaso Banigo and Mrs Elizabeth Soba Banigo of Bonny Island, Dr May Lolo Banigo was raised in Port Harcourt and Bonny where she learnt a lot about the history of the Ijaws from her maternal grandmother, Amaopuorubo Ethel KoteyPepple, one of the first titled female citizens of Bonny Kingdom from the Perekule Royal House.

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She is a member of the American Medical Association (AMA), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), California Society of Anesthesiologists (CSA), American Board of Disability Analysts (ABDA) and American Society of Regional Anesthesiologists (ASRA)

After graduating with a grade one in the sciences (WASC) from Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls' school (ACMGS), she was accepted into the College of Medicine of the University of Lagos (Medilag) where she graduated with an MBBS degree in Medicine and Surgery. She went on to do her internship at University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) and post Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

graduate diploma in Anesthesiology at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. She did her residency in Anesthesiology at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), the Royal Victoria Hospital/Queens University of Belfast, and the South West Thames Regional Health Authority Group Of Hospitals in the United Kingdom. On her return to Nigeria, Dr May Banigo discovered a nightmarish standard of practice of Medicine in Nigeria. Consequently, she moved to the USA where she was accepted into the University of Southern California (USC) Anesthesiology Residency Program. After a successful residency and Board Certification, Dr May Banigo became a Diplomate of the American Board of Anesthesiologists. She is presently in full time Private Practice as an Independent Physician Anesthesiologist in several hospitals in Los Angeles and Southern California. She is a member of the American Medical Association (AMA), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), California Society of Anesthesiologists (CSA), American Board of Disability Analysts (ABDA), American Society of Regional Anesthesiologists (ASRA), World Affairs Council and President Obama's Kitchen Cabinetstand 27

Dr. (Chief) Christopher Pere Katimi Iredia Ekiyor Member, Ijaw Foundation Care-taker Committee

Dr. (Chief ) Christopher Pere KatimiIredia Ekiyor was born to the family of late Chief (Dr.) T. F. Ekiyor and Mrs. Victoria Ekiyor of the great Ekiyor Dynasty of Ekise Quarters of Patani and Olikiabor Dynasty of Benin Kingdom in the early 70s. The fifth child in a polygamous family of sixteen, he started his academic career at Opu-kabo Primary School, Patani from where he moved to Government Secondary School, Rijau in Niger State. After his secondary school education, he had a brief stint with DHL courier services as a casual staff. He is anAlumni of the prestigious University of Benin Medical School where he trained as a Dental Surgeon. He holds an honorary Doctorate Degree in Philosophy from Pacific Western University, Denver, Stateof Colorado, USA. He also bagged the nonviolence stages I & II certificates of the University of Rhode Island and is a Fellow of the Centre for Nonviolence in USA, 2006. He is a post-graduate student of Public Health in the School of Health Technology, Federal University of Technology (FUT), Owerri.He is currently

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He is a recipient of the Nigerian Ambassador of Peace Award 2009, BERN Switzerland

the Transition Committee Chairman, Patani Local Government Area of Delta State While in the University of Benin, he was the President of the Student Union Government as well as other positions held during his stay. He is the founder of RAHI Medical Outreach, an NGO that has met the health needs of the people of the Niger Delta region and beyond with a vision to expand its frontiers to rural Africa, hence the acronym RAHI – Rural Africa Health Initiative. He is a dedicated Philanthropist who has generously supported education and health for the downtrodden. He is a recipient of the Nigerian Ambassador of Peace Award 2009, BERN Switzerland, Youth Federation for World Peace Award, Geneva – 2009, Award of Honour 28

for Leadership Excellence, SUG Uniben, Nonviolence Compliance Award King-Lituli Transformation Centre, South Africa, Best Performing Chairman, Grassroots leadership Network 2013, Distinguished Alumnus Award, University of Benin Alumni Association and others. Membership/Positions held includes; Member, Nigerian Medical Association, Edo State Chapter, Federal Government/Ijaw Joint Committee on Roadmap to Peace in the Niger delta region, FGN Amnesty Implementation Sub-committee, President Emeritus, Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide, Head of Medicals, Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) and others. Dr (Chief) Chris Ekiyor is endowed with the tempering of a philosopher, the tact and charisma of a diplomat and the steely intellect of a politician. As President,Ijaw Youth Council worldwide, he was an advocate of Nonviolence and championed a lot of national discuss in resolving the Niger Delta question with special emphasis to the Amnesty programme. He is married with four children. Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Chris Abili Secretary, Ijaw Foundation Care-taker Committee

Chris Abili is a Nigerian-born U.S-based software engineer, academic, writer, global issues commentator and recovering journalist. He studied mass communication in Nigeria and after graduation relocated to Lagos, Nigeria's most populous conurbation and commercial hub. It was in Lagos that he started professional writing as a freelance journalist and wrote extensively for various newspapers and magazines in Nigeria. When Newswatch, Nigeria’s then foremost news magazine advertized for the best reporters in the land who "can squeeze water out of stone", Abili applied and got hired for a full time journalism position. He was assigned to Newswatch’s subsidiary, Quality magazine. While at Newswatch he travelled extensively across Nigeria to cover news stories with cutting-edge investigative journalism, thereby revealing evidence of an uncommonly independent and adventurous mind.

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He made good on his come-back plan with an article titled Mr. President, you are wrong!

2009/2010 turbulent political event in Nigeria which led to 78 days of power vacuum caused him to rethink a come-back to professional writing. The plan was to use it as platform to weigh in on the Nigerian exigency.

On January 28, 2010 Abili made good on his comeback plan with an article titled Mr. President, you are wrong! The essay took direct aim at the crux of the Later Abili excused himself from journalism and Nigerian political crisis, which was the refusal of late immigrated to The United States. Upon arriving United Nigerian President Umaru Yar’Adua’s to pave way for States he switched profession and furthered his voluntary handover of power to former Vice President education in a different trajectory, double-majoring in (now President), Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, while he computer science and physics for undergraduate (Yar’Adua) was away in Saudi Arabia for medical degrees. Graduate work for a Master of Science (M.S) emergency. in software engineering was later successfully completed and PhD work in information security is in Further, Abili is the secretary of Ijaw Foundation progress. caretaker committee which was empanelled May 2013 to run the affairs of the foundation pending Meanwhile, since arriving The United States Abili has reconstitution of a new board of directors at the maintained a low profile posture, focusing only on his foundation’s May 2014 annual convention in Houston, new profession of Software engineering. He put Texas. professional writing in the back burner. But a Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Julius Enarusai Member, Ijaw Foundation Care-taker Committee

â&#x20AC;&#x153; Mr. Julius Enarusai is currently employed as a Senior Managing Consultant/IT Architect at IBM Corporation in the United States. He has worked in the IT field for almost 23 years (17 at IBM) in various capacities ranging from Software Engineer, Senior Software Engineer, Managing Consultant and Senior Managing Consultant. He has published several technical articles in the IT industry, focusing on the Information Security and Identity Management field, both within and outside IBM, including a United States Patent. Mr. Enarusai leverages his solid technical background and experience in Information Security Management, Telecommunications and Network technologies, and his Relationship Management skills, to collaboratively bring value to his current and previous employers, as well as the various organizations that he volunteers his time.

He has worked in the IT field for almost 23 years (17 at IBM) in various capacities ranging from Software Engineer, Senior Software Engineer, Managing Consultant and Senior Managing Consultant. He has published several technical articles in the IT industry, focusing on the Information Security and Identity Management field. both within and outside IBM, including a United States Patent.

In addition to his official career, Mr. Enarusai is also a very active member of the Nigerian immigrant society. He is the current president of the Ijaw National Alliance of the Americas (INAA) and a member of the board of directors of the Ijaw Foundation. He is also the Chairman of the Diaspora Ijaw Technical Assistance Corps (DITAC).

He has both Bachelors and Masters Degrees from Mr. Enarusai has been married to his wife, Irene Southern University and A & M College, in Baton Enarusai for 31 years and their marriage has been Rouge, LA 70813, USA. blessed with 5 children. 30

Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Comrade Shedrack Fubara Chairman Convention Planning Committee

Computer Science and a Masters Degree (in view) in Environmental Management with Specialization in Ecological Sustainability. He is a member of various professional bodies including: National institute of Safety Professional. Upon graduation he performed the mandatory one year National Youth Service (NYSC) Corp at Shell’s Forcados Terminal. His drive for community service led him to volunteer his spare time to teach Mathematics to students at Ogulagha Secondary School and prepared them to pass their external exams. He continued this selfless service for several years while working in the Shell Terminal. He led other Youth Corp members to carry out several awareness campaigns in the Community. He left an enviable record for which many Students who passed through him and entire Ogulagha Kingdom remains grateful till date.

Comrade Shedrack Fubara, is a human rights activist and social crusader for justice and equality. He is also a community leader. In 1998, he was elected National President, National Union of Opobo Students, National Secretariat (NUOS). Together with his exco, he led the union meritoriously; created alot of awareness of Student’s Unionism in Opobo Kingdom and also founded The Manilla Magazine (voice of Opobo youths).

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He is a strong voice for the Unity and Emancipation of Ijaw Nation

He has 16 years post graduation work experience in the Oil & Gas industry. He worked with Shell as Service contract personnel in Operations and later Drilling Waste Management Services. In 2007 he relocated to Canada to work for Plains Midstream Canada ULC- oil & gas Pipeline Company. He has attended several conference and trainings in oil and gas Operations, Environment, Drilling Waste Management, Safety, Remediation, etc. Since leaving the Union, he has held various He has strong work ethics and a team player. leadership positions at Home and Diaspora Organizations. He is currently the President of He is a strong voice for the Unity and Emancipation Opobians in Diaspora – an umbrella Organization of of Ijaw Nation. He is a firm believer and a champion Opobo indigenes living abroad. He is also the of resource control by the owners of the land as Chairman, Publicity Committee - Community of practiced in developed countries, like Canada and Rivers People in Diaspora (North America Chapter). USA. He is an advocate for True Fiscal Federalism in He is currently the Chairman- Convention Planning Nigeria. Committee of Ijaw Foundation Inc, .USA. He enjoys Community Service, organizing, Comrade Shedrack Fubara holds a Bachelors Degree travelling, reading and writing. He is married and in Math from University of Ibadan; certificate in blessed with children. 32

Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Mr Harcout Anthony Otokito FCCA Anthony Otokito is a London-based Chartered Certified Accountant with years of experience as Rapu), a qualified Medical Secretary, currently an Group Finance Manager and professional Auditor. He has had over 20 years of working experience within the UK public sector, specialising in public sector VAT/taxation and funding of Capital Investment Programmes. Tony has numerous years of working in close collaboration with the UK’s Her Majesty Revenue &Customs (HMRC) on Taxation &VAT matters, and the likes of PWC, KPMG, Deloitte, RSM Tenon, having been lead contact officer on these matters on behalf of his Authority. Prior to relocating to the UK to pursue his Accountancy qualification and career, Tony worked in the Accountancy Dept of the then NICON (National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria) in Lagos and latterly at the Companies Office within the Exchange Control Dept of Central Bank of Nigeria, Tinubu Square, Lagos, from where he departed for the UK. Tony is currently also an Executive Director of London-based Finance Consultancy Firm, KitCrest Consultancy, which specialises in taxes/VAT and advising on funding streams for major capital projects. Tony Otokito is a renowned personality within the London social circles, and particularly, within the Ijaw Community, having been a previous President of the Federation of Ijaw Communities (FEDICOM) and the wholly-Ijaw 16years old Social Club, London Tari Club (Lontar) - www.londontariclub.com . Tony is also the current President of the Ogbia Community-UK, a social/cultural body catering for the interest of UK-based indigenes of the Ogbia Community, originating from Bayelsa State of Nigeria. Some of Tony’s engagements with and for the Ijaw Community are readily available for public viewing on YouTube.

Administrator within the UK Public Sector. They are blessed with two boys and two girls. Tony's hobbies include regular swimming, international travelling, Amateur photography, music and participating in various Internet social discussion networks. He has been an active contributor to the Ijaw Nation Discussion Forum (INF). Tony has been closely associated with the Ijaw Foundation for numerous years, having been a member of the Foundation’s State Creation Committee under the previous regime. He is currently the Ijaw Foundation’s appointed Representative/Ambassador in Europe and Secretary to the 2014 Convention Planning Committee.

Tony is married to Florence Chineze Otokito (Nee Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Comrade Andrew Brayena Isiayei (aka Otutu 1) Committee set up by the then Deputy Governor's office for the SPDC re-entry in June 2006, where he last served before relocating to the New York City, with his wife Miebi Stella Isiayei, nĂŠe Igangan, and their daughter, Konne Lucy Isiayei, in August 2006. They were blessed with a son, Miebi Guy Isiayei in March 2008, in New York, while he was pursuing an Associate Degree in occupational studies at the Mandl College, Midtown, New York. He got elected as Pioneer Chairman of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) USA and joint Council Chairman, IYC North America, in April 2008 in New York and was inaugurated by then President, Dr. Chris Ekiyor.

Andrew Brayena Isiayei, was born on the 20th of March 1969 in Ughelli, to Late Hon Chief V.C.M. Isiayei JP of OsumaibioAgge and Ogulagha, and Mrs Tima Roseline Isiayei, nĂŠe Prebor, of Amazor and Odimodi. The third child, and 1st son of the family, he attended Zuokumor Primary School Ojobo, from 1974 to 1978, when his father was transferred from his duty post as Principal of Gbesa Grammar School Ojobo. He continued at Ogedegbe Primary School, Warri until 1980, when he started High school at Hussey College, Warri, obtaining his WASC in 1985. He attended Federal Government College, Warri from 1985 to 1986, for advance levels but left on gaining admission to the University of PortHarcourt in 1987 to 1991, as Pharmacology major.

He was a signatory to the Ijaw Foundation State creation communique of 2008/2009. He completed the AOS program in August 2008 and rose to the post of Client and Support services Manager at Peak Plus Inc, Brooklyn, New York. In 2009 he left his job at the thick of the Gbaramatu bombardment and went back to full activism. He relocated with his family to Houston Texas in January 2011, and has been in private business and politics since then. He is a card carrying member of PDP in Ekeremor LGA and was an electing delegate to the Chairmanship Primaries in EKELGA in December 2012. He was the Supervisory Councillor for Works and Housing from August to December 2012, during the great floods of 2012. He was a member of the EKELGA senior staff verification committee in October 2012.

He is currently, a member of the SPDC GMOU board In 1994, he joined his father's business as a supervisor, for KOU cluster in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State and member and took over the servicing unit in 1997, after the of the Technical Standing committee. He is demise of his father. He was a light-craft transport Community High Chief in Agge, where he is the support provider for the ForcadosYokri Integrated Secretary of the Agge Community Trust. He is also the Palace Bebefiewei of Amatu from 2001 till date. project (FYIP) drilling team from 2000 to 2001. He joined SPDC-EA, Bonga field Community Interface team in October 2001, as a Community Focal Rep. In He was a diaspora delegate to the INC convention in January 2006, he was seconded to the Bayelsa State Yenagoa in March 2013, and an accredited Diaspora Bureau on Oil and Gas, as a Local Content Compliance observer to the IYC convention of October 28th, 2013. Officer, in the office of the Special Adviser on Oil and Gas with special focus on the Gbaraun-Ubie He lives in Houston Texas, USA and is currently Integrated Gas Project. He was at the same time, a enrolled at the Houston Community College, for a member of the Ekeremor LGA, Oil and Gas Adhoc degree in Science. 34

Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Thelma Horton Entrepreneur ~ Strategist ~ Life Coach ~ Humanitarian A passion for life, a commitment to live life to the full and a purpose in living it! This is how those who know Thelma Horton would describe her. Thelma is a gifted, dedicated and innovative, creative visionary woman of transformation. She is a high-energy, resultsoriented leader with proven ability to manage multiple projects. As a social entrepreneur, she uses her skills, gifts and talents to contribute to the growth and development of Africa, promote the empowerment of African people and illuminate the cultural history of Africans and African Americans by providing services that promote leadership development, social justice, youth and women empowerment and sustainable economic development. Thelma is a global strategist and international business consultant, the founder and CEO of Zoweh Holdings LLC, a US based company, which provides strategic business development consulting, entrepreneur and leadership development, and executive coaching services. Zoweh Holdings current client list includes the Federal University Otuoke, Nigeria and the Africa USA Chamber of Commerce. She is a founding member of Global Women – African Network (GLOW) and presented at the Global Town Hall Meeting during the 2012 World Bank IMF meetings in Toyko, Japan. Recognized as a leader by her peers, Thelma serves as the Executive Director of the Nigerian Diaspora Electoral Reform Group (NDERG), a US-based, nonprofit non-governmental organization whose main aim is to work with Nigerians and friends of Nigeria within and outside of Nigeria towards participating in the political, social and electoral reforms in the country. She currently serves as a the Director of Strategic Planning, Nigerian American Public Affairs Committee and AGOA 2014 Civic Society Forum planning committee. Thelma was appointed an Ambassador of Peace by the Universal Peace Federation, and served on the advisory board of the Nigerian Women Leadership Council International and The AD King Foundation. She is a graduate of North Carolina State University, where she received her Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in accounting and finance and is a graduate of the PhD Leadership and Coaching Curriculum of The Legacy Center in Morrisville, NC. She has successfully completed the Management Training Institute through UDI Community Development Corporation and the School of Business at North Carolina Central University. With more than 30 years of progressive experience in management, sales, marketing and finance, and even more experience overcoming obstacles and meeting difficulties head-on, Thelma is not ashamed of her purpose or her faith. She credits God with giving her the ability to be a successful businesswoman and international leader. Although she has been through many personal and professional challenges, she continues to stay focused and firmly grounded…always looking for ways to turn adversity into accomplishments and helping others to do the same. Always in pursuit of positive change. “I could not at any age be content to take my place in a corner by the fireside and simply look on.” Eleanor Roosevelt - US diplomat & reformer www.zowehholdings.com 35

Comrade (Engr.)Ebieridei Charles Ambaiowei Acting President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) the dissolution of NRC and SDP by late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha (GCON). He teamed up with compatriots and other protagonists in 1994 and struggled to achieve the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996. Actively involved till date in Bayelsa State Founding Fathers Forum. He was MOSIEND's active participant. MOSIEND is precursor to Ijaw Youth Council (IYC).

Comrade Engr. Ebieridei Charles Ambaiowei, (MNSE) was born on 1st October 1962. He is an Indigene of Amassoma in Ogboin Clan of Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State. Educated at various primary, post primary and post secondary institutions, culminated in obtaining the Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) Degree in Civil Engineering (1990) from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Nkpolu, Port Harcourt. His activism started in his early days at the University. He was President, Nigerian Universities Engineering Students Association (NUESA), RSUST Chapter, (1984/85 & 1985/86). And Member, Student Union Self-help Hostel Building Project Committee (1986), RSUST. His working career began as a Marine Engineer Cadet (1989-91), Banuso Fisheries Ltd. Obtained practical Sea faring experience and training on ship mechanical, electrical and refrigeration systems. In 1991/92 he proceeded on the mandatory NYSC where he served under J.C Architects & Construction Management Consultants, P.H. Later he was appointed as both Camp-bosses for the Rumuogba Residential Estate of Schlumberger Nigeria Ltd. and Trainee Construction Manager while the firm contractually managed / maintained estate facilities. In 1993 he became Party Chairman, National Republic Convention (NRC) for Southern Ijaw LGA Chapter until 36

In January 2006, Engr. Charles Ambaiowei was appointed Honourable Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure, in the Executive Council of Bayelsa State. A position he held until June 2007. In May 2012, he was appointed Vice Chairman, Directorate of Project Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME), Bayelsa State, for 4 years tenure. He is also Member; Bayelsa State Infrastructure Advisory Committee inaugurated on 17th October 2012. He was elected National Organizing Secretary of Ijaw National Congress (INC) from 2009 -2013. And on March 16, 2013 he was elected National Vice President of Ijaw National Congress having served as National Organizing Secretary.As fate would have it, on November 2013 he became the Acting National President of INC following the unfortunate demise of the National President, Late HDHSenator (Dr.) Tari Sekibo (odo-abaji of Okirka.) Comrade (Engr.)Charles Ambaiowei is a member of several professional bodies and a recipient of several awards: − Corporate member, Nigerian Society of Engineers. Currently Ex-officio of NSE Yenagoa, Branch. − Nigerian National Think Thank (NTT), Nigeria. − Association of Professional for Good Leadership (APGL), Nigeria. − Professionals of the South-South (PSS), Nigeria. − Recipient of Development in Nigeria (DINMA) 2007 merit award. He is also the CEO of two Engineering Corporations − Technological Services, Network Ltd. − Technological and Investments Network Ltd. He is happily married with six (6) children. He enjoys Swimming, Reading and debating. His philosophy of Life is - uplifting total quality of humanity. Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure

Ijaw Foundation 2014 Convention Brochure