By Rhoda Godwin, Yenagoa
Over ninety retired journalists in Bayelsa State are set to be honoured for their years of meritorious service and outstanding contributions to the growth of journalism in the state.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the convener of the programme, Mr. Ovieteme George, ahead of the event scheduled to hold in Yenagoa.
According to the statement, the celebration will take place on February 14, 2026, by 8:00 a.m. at the Samson Siasia Stadium. A novelty football match involving the retired journalists will form part of the activities lined up for the day.
Mr. George explained that the initiative is aimed at celebrating veteran journalists who have positively impacted society and mentored younger generations through their wealth of professional experience.
Among those to be honoured are Ann Koko-Abidde, former General Manager of the Bayelsa State Radio Corporation; Tari Febabor, former General Manager of Radio Bayelsa; Mr. Freston Akpor, retired Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information; Pere Habobo; and Joan Inaingo Ogu, former Head of News, People’s FM 93 Yenagoa.
Others include Mr. Chris Odi, retired Director in the Ministry of Information; Preye Wariowei, immediate past General Manager of New Waves newspaper; Mr. Barikumo Adou, former South-South Zonal Director of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria; Mr. Ebi Avi; Mr. Mablas Macaulay Akpuluma Jnr; Mr. Fred Fabor, retired General Manager of NDTV; Mr. Loveday Herbert; Nelson Oweifaghawari; Nengi “Pope Pen” Ilagha; Pamela Seibidor; and Seiyefa Uzaka, former NUJ Chairman.
The list of honourees also includes Florence Kakandar, Josephine Zibai, retired Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information; Jane Help Yawei; Thomas Peretu; Charles Tambou; Bomolaghon Ereku; Thompson Oyatu; Godspower Pinadiri; Lucky Francis; Allen Suoteigha; Felix Slaboh; Esther Siasia; Samson Amaran; Bruce Duba; Stanley Max-Egba; and Owei Makpa, among others.
Mr. George called on members of the press and the general public to attend the historic event, describing it as a fitting tribute to journalists whose legacies have shaped the profession in Bayelsa State.
