By Onomiguren Agbamu
It was celebration galore at kwale, on January 4, 2024, in honour of the publisher, Ndokwa vanguard who have journeyed in the profession for the past 30 years.
Men, women from all works of life were at the event to grace the occasion of the renowned CEO and publisher of the indigenous newspaper in Delta state.
Speaking at the top-notch celebration, the publisher, and CEO of the Ndokwa vanguard, Mr. Alaska Ekele said the journey began when he was the advert manager of vanguard newspaper in 1993.
Alaska while appreciating and attributing his success to his them primary four teachers, Mr. Ezekiel Ekakitie noted that he was the brain behind the opportunity
He commended “Vanguard Newspapers for laying the groundwork for his career and outlined his vision for a Research Centre in Ukwuani land, aimed at dispelling misinformation about the region and preserving cultural heritage.”
“He passionately appealed for support from the public and industry colleagues to realize this noble cause”
Also speaking, ” the Chairman of the ceremony, Chief Solomon Igulu, urged sons and daughters, particularly those in political positions and offices, to help to grow local media in the area”.
While commending the Ndokwa vanguard publisher for his commitment in the media work, the state Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori who was represented by his SSA on Community Newspaper, Prince Oromorokpai, said “Ndokwa Vanguard’s profound impact on the grassroots by disseminating vital information on behalf of the government.
Governor Oborevwori assures its support for community media, promise to create an enabling environment for growth.
The Governor, However, ” clarified that this backing wouldn’t overshadow existing media outlets but aimed to enhance the effectiveness of community newspapers.”
“Governor Oborevwori’s administration hinted at a forthcoming review of existing community newspapers, signaling a commitment to enhancing their effectiveness and reach”
Also at the occasion, the CEO of Ndokwa Reporters and chairman of Delta online publishers Forum, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, highlighted Ekele’s dedication and emphasized the critical role of grassroots newspapers in preserving authentic stories and cultural identity. He urged increased support for their sustainability and growth.
Enebeli raised concerns over the lack of support of community and leaders for local newspapers, pointing out the critical role these papers play in preserving authentic stories, just as hed called for collective action, urging increased support and resources for sustainability and growth.
Additionally, Dr. Barr Chukwudi Onyema Okwelum the Guest Lecturer at the occasion highlighted the pivotal role of Mr. Ekele and the Ndokwa Vanguard in projecting the tradition and culture of the Ndokwa people. He emphasized the paper’s contribution to exposing Ukwuani to the world and called for support from the people of the area.
The event, which was spiced with traditional music, ended with the launching and unveiling of a One Billion Naira Research Centre on Ukwuani land, set to house various facilities for cultural preservation and knowledge dissemination.