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A Beacon Of Hope in Nigeria’s Electoral Landscape: Obo Effanga’s Story
Obo Effanga, a paragon of integrity and a champion of democracy, has been a stalwart defender of free and fair elections in Nigeria long before his appointment as Resident Electoral Commissioner for Rivers State in 2017. With a career spanning over two decades, Effanga stands as a beacon of integrity and impartiality in Nigeria’s electoral landscape, inspiring hope in a country where the electoral process is often marred by controversy and malpractice.
As a trained journalist, lawyer, and governance expert, Effanga’s expertise extends far beyond election management. He holds a National Diploma in Mass Communications from The Polytechnic Calabar (1988), an LL.B (Hons) from the University of Calabar (1994), and a Master of Arts (MA) in Human Rights from the University of Sussex (2011).
Effanga’s impressive resume includes conducting several high-profile elections, such as the 2019 general election in Rivers State, the 2023 general election in Edo State, and the off-cycle Governorship Election in Bayelsa State in 2023. He has also supported off-cycle elections in many other states in Nigeria since 2017 and observed the presidential election in Venezuela in 2018.
Beyond his work in election management, Effanga is dedicated to community service. He has served as the President of the Nigerian Alumni Association of the International Fellowships Program of Ford Foundation, Vice Chair of the Efik Leadership Foundation, Past President of the Lagos Achievers Lions Club, and former national president (District President) of the Leo Club Programme in Nigeria. Effanga’s contributions to democracy and community service have been recognized with several awards, including:
— Columnist of the Year, Nigeria Media Merit Award (2004)
— Ford Foundation Scholar (2010/2011)
— Melvin Jones Fellow (MJF) from Lions Clubs International (2018)
He has also worked at ActionAid Nigeria for 11 years, including serving as management staff and Governance Programme Manager for more than six years. Additionally, he has worked as senior programme staff in other national NGOs in Nigeria.
As a newspaper columnist, Effanga has written for different national newspapers, spanning more than 15 years, and has been a member of the editorial board of NewAge newspaper. He has also written many editorial commentaries, essays, and poems, and has published two books: ‘To The Sun At Sundown’ and ‘Déjà Vu Nigeria’.
When asked about withstanding pressure from politicians, Effanga remains resolute: “I have zero tolerance for such and have not even bothered.” His commitment to neutrality and impartiality is unwavering, making him an exemplary figure in Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
As Effanga continues to serve as a guardian of democracy, his legacy as a champion of free and fair elections will endure, inspiring future generations of electoral umpires and cementing his place as an icon in Nigeria’s democratic journey. His remarkable journey serves as a shining example of the transformative impact of unwavering dedication, unshakeable integrity, and selfless service to humanity, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s democratic fabric.
In a bid to reduce the country’s planet-warming emissions, the UK government has announced a £180 million investment in solar panels for hundreds of schools and hospitals across the country.
This move is part of the government’s efforts to achieve its long-term climate goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The investment, which is the first major project from Great British Energy, the government’s new state owned energy company, is expected to provide solar panels for 200 schools and 200 hospitals.
This will not only help reduce energy bills but also cut carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
According to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, “Great British Energy’s first major project will be to help our vital public institutions save hundreds of millions on bills to reinvest on the frontline.”
He added that the project will help reduce the financial pressure of energy bills on schools and hospitals.
The announcement has been welcomed by schools, unions, and NHS estate managers, who have long been advocating for measures to reduce energy costs.
Paul Whiteman, NAHT general secretary, said that the investment is a “step in the right direction” and will help schools manage energy bills, which have been a significant financial burden in recent years.
However, not everyone is optimistic about the investment.
Andrew Bowie, shadow energy secretary, argued that the government’s net zero plans will make the country “poorer.”
He claimed that the investment will lead to increased reliance on foreign powers like Russia.
In contrast, energy experts believe that investing in renewable energy will reduce the UK’s reliance on imports.
Jess Ralston, energy analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, said that the investment in solar panels will improve energy security and reduce the amount of gas imported from countries like Russia.
The first solar panels are expected to be installed by the end of the summer, with a focus on areas of “highest need.”
Get ready for the most explosive edition yet! Diaspora Watch 39th edition is packed with breaking news, shocking revelations, and heartwarming stories that will leave you breathless!
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DIASPORA WATCH 39TH EDITION: GLOBAL NEWS EXPLOSION!
Putin and Trump hold the fate of Ukraine in the balance as they engage in high-stakes talks! What will be the outcome? Find out inside!
Mark Carney sworn in as Canadian Prime Minister! A new era begins in Canadian politics, but what does the future hold?
Trump drops a bombshell, declaring Biden’s last-minute pardons “null and void”! The implications are staggering – get the full story inside!
Global growth set to slow down in 2025 and 2026, warns OECD report! What does this mean for the global economy?
SpaceX capsule delivers four astronauts to International Space Station! A historic achievement in space exploration that will leave you starstruck!
Your WhatsApp account can be compromised in minutes – find out how to stay safe online!
African Union rejects parallel government in Sudan, warns of country’s partition! The AU takes a firm stance on Sudan’s political crisis – get the latest inside!
Nigeria set to appoint new envoys as vetting process begins! Who will make the cut?
Nnamdi Kanu expresses gratitude as Chief Justice reassigned terrorism case! A significant development in the Nnamdi Kanu case – find out more!
ECOWAS Parliament intervenes in Guinea-Bissau, Liberia crises! Regional leaders work towards a peaceful resolution – get the full story!
And in a heartwarming turn of events, Asake reconciles with ailing father, promises new house and responsibility for 11-year-old daughter!
Diaspora Watch Unveils 38th Edition: Get ready for the most anticipated edition yet!
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Diaspora Watch is proud to present its 38th edition, packed with the latest news, trends, and analysis from around the world.
Our cover headlines are buzzing with hot topics: the mass trial of opposition figures in Tunisia, the UK government’s refusal to pay Rwanda over a canceled migrant deal, and Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress, outlining his vision for a second term.
But that’s not all – we’re also diving into the world of sports, with a special feature on Nigeria’s first Super Bowl winner, Moro Ojomo, who received a hero’s welcome at Aso Villa. And, meet the 35-year-old Nigerian man who’s making waves with his incredible talent for building helicopters and guns from rubber!
In our lifestyle section, we’re exploring the devastating consequences of procrastination and how to overcome it. Plus, find out why Nigerian celebrities are caught up in Lamborghini fever!
As always, Diaspora Watch is your premier source for compelling stories, analysis, and perspectives that matter to Africans everywhere.
So, grab your copy now and stay informed, inspired, and connected to the global African community!
Diaspora Diva – Aisha Bowe
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 40
UK Invests £180 Million In Solar Panels For Schools And Hospitals
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
