It was an evening of glamour, beauty, music, and critical discourse as the 2025 EveAfrique Redball brought together dignitaries and thought leaders to champion the theme: “Restoring the Pride of the Niger Delta.” Held at the prestigious Wells Carlton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja, the event served as a platform for both celebration and serious dialogue on regional transformation.
The convener and Editor-in-Chief, Ivy Davies Etokakpan, opened the evening with a heartfelt welcome, emphasizing the need to reshape narratives about the Niger Delta using the power of the media. She underscored the responsibility of EveAfrique News in leading this mission of cultural pride, storytelling, and community empowerment.
In a passionate keynote, Mrs. Stella Fubara, Ambassador of Tourism, made a stirring call to Niger Deltans: “Think home.” She challenged the audience to stop exporting their brilliance and instead invest emotionally, mentally, and spiritually in rebuilding the region. “We must champion clean and bold leadership,” she said, highlighting the role of media, governance, and community service in achieving this.
Dr. Kaine Chinwah echoed this sentiment, urging participants to focus on environmental preservation and sustainable development. She stressed the need for individuals to take ownership of the region’s future through hard work and active participation.
Renowned cultural figure, Yibo Koko, spoke bluntly on the issues crippling the region’s progress. He criticized the “Ngeri-fi” (selfish) and “Opokuro” (narrow-minded) mentality, saying these attitudes hinder unity and growth. He also highlighted the persistent failure to implement regional blueprints as a major obstacle to real progress.
The event also featured prestigious award presentations honoring individuals and organizations who have made impactful contributions to the Niger Delta. Honorees included: Dr. Emi Membere-Otaji
Abuja Investment Company and H.E. Dr. Maureen Tamuno, ASU Ekiye, Hon. Tonye Briggs-Oniyide, Mr. Idaere Gogo Ogan, Tantita Security Services Limited, Dr. Idaere Afonya Akobo, Mr. Richard Akinaka
and Otunbress Timi Peggotty Dumbo
Adding vibrancy to the evening was the Lavie Band International, which captivated the audience with a soulful selection of Niger Delta music, blending tradition with contemporary rhythm to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Distinguished guests included:
HRH Chief Henry Micah Biterefie II, Amadabo of Ono-Bio 1, Sambo-Ama, Twon Brass Kingdom, Bayelsa State
HRH Suleiman Gimba, Magajin Garin of Fika, Sir, Engr. Adokiye Tombomieye, Pastor Tonye Cole, former Rivers State governorship aspirant
Hon. Ojukaye Flag-Amachree, and many other esteemed leaders from within and beyond the Niger Delta.
The 2025 EveAfrique Redball was more than a celebration — it was a clarion call to reclaim, restore, and reimagine the Niger Delta, led by voices committed to legacy, action, and transformation.
