Author: TAMUNOFINIARISA BROWN

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BREAKING NEWS: Youth Development Initiative Takes Bold Step Toward Community Safety in Finima

Finima, Bonny Island — May 30, 2025

In a bold and inspiring move to enhance public safety and empower the next generation of community leaders, the Finima Youth Congress (FYC) has partnered with EBBY-TEK Service Limited and Future Concern Nigeria Limited to successfully implement a Red Cross-certified training programme aimed at bolstering emergency response capacity and disaster preparedness among youths in Finima, Bonny Island.

The two-day intensive training, held from May 29 and 30, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the community’s ongoing efforts to cultivate a proactive, safety-conscious culture in the Niger Delta. With growing concerns over health emergencies, accidents, and disaster management in oil-producing regions, the initiative serves as a timely intervention that prepares young people to act swiftly and competently in times of crisis.

A Collaborative Effort with Purpose

The training programme was made possible through the proactive coordination of the Directorate of Social Welfare and Youth Development of the FYC, under the leadership of Comrade Abraham Brown. The programme brought together over 60 young men and women from Finima and its environs, equipping them with practical skills in first aid, CPR, emergency evacuation procedures, basic firefighting, and disaster risk reduction strategies.

Participants underwent both theoretical and hands-on training modules delivered by certified instructors affiliated with EBBY-TEK Service Limited and Future Concern Nigeria Limited—two reputable organisations with extensive experience in health, safety, and environmental (HSE) training.

Speaking on the success of the programme, Comrade Darlington Tobin, Chairman of the Finima Youth Congress, praised the professionalism and commitment shown by the partnering organisations. “We are truly grateful to the teams from EBBY-TEK and Future Concern for bringing this life-saving knowledge to our doorstep,” he said during the closing ceremony held at the Finima Town Hall.

“This initiative has given our youths not only the skills but also the confidence to take action in emergencies. It’s a game-changer for our community.”

Redefining Youth Engagement Through Safety Education

The Finima Youth Congress, known for its progressive advocacy for youth empowerment and community development, sees this initiative as part of a larger roadmap to position Finima as a model for grassroots transformation.

In his address, Comrade Abraham Brown, Director of Social Welfare and Youth Development, emphasised the importance of practical knowledge in today’s world.

“This is more than just training; it’s about changing mindsets and creating first responders in our neighbourhoods,” said Comrade Brown. “We want our youths to understand the value of life, the power of preparedness, and the impact of stepping up when it matters most.”

He continued, “We are proud to partner with organisations that share our vision for a safer and healthier community. Our collaboration with EBBY-TEK and Future Concern Nigeria Limited sends a clear message: We are committed to building a new generation of responsible, informed, and empowered young people.”

The programme also featured simulation drills, role-playing scenarios, and interactive workshops that covered everything from bleeding control to how to respond during floods, fires, and other local hazards.

Testimonies of Impact

For many participants, the training provided their first formal exposure to emergency management techniques. Blessing Hart, a 24-year-old student who participated in the training, described it as “eye-opening and empowering”.

“I now feel confident that I can help someone during an emergency,” she said. “The instructors were patient and knowledgeable. I believe this kind of training should be extended to every youth in Bonny.”

Another participant, Ifeanyi George, a commercial tricycle operator, recounted how he once witnessed an accident but didn’t know how to help. “Now, I know how to check for breathing, perform CPR, and stop bleeding. I feel like a real community protector now.”

Strategic Development Goals in Action

The Finima Youth Congress’s initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

By empowering young people with practical life-saving skills, the Congress is directly contributing to a more resilient, informed, and health-conscious society.

Both EBBY-TEK Service Limited and Future Concern Nigeria Limited commended the initiative and pledged ongoing support for community-focused programmes. In separate remarks, their representatives reaffirmed their dedication to extending health and safety education to underserved communities.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Finima?

With the successful completion of this training, the Finima Youth Congress has announced plans to institutionalise periodic safety programmes and expand the initiative to other parts of Bonny Kingdom. Discussions are already underway to incorporate advanced training modules, including mental health first aid, environmental hazard response, and child safety awareness.

The Congress is also advocating for policy support from local government and corporate partners to ensure the sustainability of such life-impacting initiatives.

“We’re not stopping here,” said Comrade Brown. “We envision a future where every young person in Finima is not only educated but also equipped to be a community lifeguard, ready to act, ready to save, and ready to lead.”

The initiative has been widely lauded by stakeholders across Bonny Kingdom, including community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations, who have praised it as a step in the right direction.

Signed Statement

In an official communique released shortly after the training, the FYC reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to community development:

“The Finima Youth Congress remains dedicated to promoting community development initiatives that foster a culture of safety, wellness, and empowerment.”

Signed:

Comrade Abraham Brown
Director of Social Welfare and Youth Development
Finima Youth Congress

As Finima continues to chart a path toward sustainable growth and inclusive development, this landmark initiative sets a powerful precedent—one where community safety begins with the youth and where development is measured not only in infrastructure but in lives protected and futures secured.

Reported by:
The Finima Media Bureau
Bonny Island, Rivers State

Amadabo of Finima Inspects Road Project, Assesses Flood Damage After Torrential Rains

Breaking News Report
Amadabo of Finima, HRH Dr. Engr. Dagogo Lambert Brown, Leads Inspection Tour of Ongoing Road Construction and Flood Impact Zon

Finima, Bonny Island – May 26, 2025

In a demonstration of hands-on leadership and deep concern for community welfare, the Amadabo of Finima, His Royal Highness Aseme Alabo Dr. Engr. Dagogo Lambert Brown, Kongo XVII, on Monday embarked on a strategic inspection tour of the ongoing road construction along Omuso Circle en route Pioneer Camp Road. The project is being executed by MPI Construction Ltd.

Accompanied by key members of his traditional council and select representatives of the Buoye Omuso Brown Major House (Asaawo), the monarch traversed the construction zone, critically observing progress while also engaging site engineers and project managers on timelines, quality control, and safety standards.

The visit came on the heels of a torrential downpour the night before, which resulted in significant flooding and the overflow of several drainage points in the area. As part of the inspection, HRH Brown also took time to assess the extent of damage caused by the rains and identified areas of concern, including blocked culverts and ineffective water channels.

Royal Oversight in Action

The presence of the Amadabo underscored the gravity of the dual challenges currently facing the Finima community: infrastructure development and environmental resilience. Dressed in his traditional royal regalia with a safety helmet for the tour, HRH Brown demonstrated not only symbolic leadership but also technical insight as an experienced engineer.

He was seen engaging with site officials, requesting updates on material specifications, project milestones, and challenges encountered so far. “We must ensure that this road meets the standard expectations of the community and withstands the environmental demands of this region,” he remarked while examining drainage layouts.

According to the project manager of MPI Construction Ltd., the roadwork has reached a critical phase involving sub-base reinforcement and drainage alignment. He assured the Amadabo and the accompanying dignitaries that quality assurance protocols were being maintained and that efforts would be intensified to accelerate the project in light of the rainy season.

Environmental Concerns Amid Development

The inspection was not limited to the construction zone. HRH Brown led his entourage through residential blocks where flooding had encroached into public spaces and homes. The king was visibly concerned about the health and safety implications, particularly the stagnant pools of water that could potentially breed mosquitoes and contribute to a rise in vector-borne diseases.

“The flooding witnessed last night highlights the need for a holistic approach to infrastructure—roads must be complemented with well-designed drainage systems that factor in climate variability,” HRH Brown stated during a press briefing after the tour.

Community members who had gathered to witness the royal inspection expressed gratitude for the monarch’s proactive intervention. “It’s a blessing to have a king who is both a traditional ruler and a qualified engineer. His understanding of our problems is both cultural and technical,” said Mrs. Tamunotonye Owei, a resident of the Omuso Circle area.

Call for Collective Action

During the briefing, HRH Brown called on all stakeholders, including the Bonny Local Government Council, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Nigeria LNG Ltd, and private contractors working on Bonny Island, to take more decisive action in addressing environmental and infrastructural challenges in Finima and its environs.

He also urged residents to play their part by desisting from blocking drains with refuse, a habit he noted as being largely responsible for the flash flooding witnessed after the rainfall.

“It is our collective responsibility to preserve Finima’s livability. The government and contractors have roles, but so do we as residents. We must desist from habits that compromise the systems put in place to protect us,” the Amadabo emphasized.

Finima on the Path to Transformation

The road construction project along Omuso Circle and Pioneer Camp Road is part of a broader infrastructure rejuvenation plan aimed at enhancing mobility, economic activity, and climate resilience in Finima, a community of historic and economic significance on Bonny Island.

As one of the host communities to Nigeria LNG and other critical oil and gas assets, Finima’s development has long been under national and international scrutiny. The traditional leadership, under HRH Brown, has continued to push for community-centered growth that respects both heritage and progress.

Stakeholders have welcomed the Amadabo’s direct involvement in project monitoring and have called for more collaboration between traditional institutions and modern development actors.

Looking Ahead

As the rainy season approaches its peak, the importance of comprehensive drainage management and resilient road infrastructure cannot be overstated. HRH Brown’s inspection tour sends a strong message that leadership must be present, responsive, and technically competent.

The visit concluded with a symbolic gesture—a moment of silence for the natural environment and a prayer for safety and prosperity for the people of Finima. HRH Brown pledged continued engagement until the road project is completed and the flood-prone areas are effectively addressed.

For the residents of Finima, Monday’s tour was not just about construction—it was a reaffirmation that their monarch walks not only in tradition but also in the spirit of accountability, engineering precision, and environmental stewardship.

Reporting by Inyofa Prince Brown

Finima Community Celebrates Boy Child Day with Youth Education Event

Finima, Rivers State – On May 16, 2025, the Finima Youth Congress (FYC) Education Committee hosted a landmark event in Finima to mark the International Day of the Boy Child. The day’s program drew 262 boys and young men from across Finima and nearby Bonny Island communities, underlining the community’s strong commitment to youth development. The celebration combined educational lectures, safety workshops, and lively cultural activities, all designed to empower the participants. Organizers emphasized that the event reflects Finima’s ongoing mission to support its young people with knowledge, guidance, and encouragement.

Event highlights included:

A comprehensive talk on puberty, physical development, and self-preservation by Dr. Nathan Dambere, a local health and education advocate.
Candid presentations by National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) officers on the dangers of drug abuse and the related rise of cultism.
Interactive question-and-answer sessions, where students asked questions about personal growth and safety and received insightful answers from the speakers.
A spirited dance competition showcasing the boys’ talents, with trophies and prizes awarded to the best performers.
Distribution of gift packs and educational materials (such as notebooks and books) to all participating students.
Attendance by students from multiple Finima schools, including the Government Girls Secondary School, Finima and St. Patrick’s Anglican Model School, Finima demonstrating broad community involvement.

Puberty and Personal Development Session

Dr. Nathan Dambere opened the program with a frank, age-appropriate discussion of adolescence. He spoke directly to the boys about the physical and emotional changes of puberty, making it clear that these changes are a natural part of growing up. “Puberty brings many changes—physical, emotional, and social,” Dr. Dambere told the students, stressing that understanding these changes is “the first step to taking responsibility for your own well-being.” He reassured the boys that while puberty can feel confusing, it is also a time of growth and opportunity. Dr. Dambere answered questions about topics ranging from growth spurts to mood swings, and he offered practical advice on hygiene and health. He repeatedly emphasized that taking care of one’s body and mind is a form of self-preservation. “Protect your health and dignity by making smart choices,” he advised, encouraging the boys to look out for one another and to stay focused on positive goals. His talk combined scientific explanations with local examples, helping students feel seen and informed rather than shy or embarrassed about the topic.

NDLEA Speeches on Drug Abuse and Cultism

Representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency delivered powerful messages about the serious risks of drug use and gang involvement. In clear, forceful speeches, they warned that even casual drug experimentation can have devastating consequences. One NDLEA officer warned the crowd, “The allure of drugs may seem attractive, but the consequences can be devastating. It not only affects your health but can also derail your academic and future ambitions”. He urged the boys to remember their goals – such as finishing school and pursuing a career – and to refuse any offers of drugs that might threaten those goals. Another officer stressed that avoiding drugs is the best defence against falling into criminal gangs. He noted the data showing the link between substance abuse and cultism in Nigeria, cautioning that “drug abuse is a significant issue in our community, with 90 per cent of cultism stemming from it.” These speakers appealed to the students’ aspirations, reminding them that staying drug-free is key to achieving success. They also assured the boys that the NDLEA is working with schools and communities to support young people – encouraging them to stay focused on education and to seek help if they ever feel pressured.

Interactive Q&A with Students

Throughout the event, the organizers maintained an open, two-way dialogue with the students. After each talk, Dr. Dambere and the NDLEA officers welcomed questions from the audience. The boys asked about issues from managing the emotional ups and downs of adolescence to how to resist peer pressure from older friends. In one session, a student asked, “What should I do if someone I know offers me drugs?” In response, an NDLEA officer explained firm but respectful ways to refuse and emphasized finding support in teachers or family if faced with such a situation. Another question concerned embarrassing physical changes; Dr. Dambere answered it with sensitivity and humour, helping to normalize the experience. Organizers noted that the students were surprisingly bold in asking questions, and every query was met with a thoughtful answer. The interactive format – with boys raising hands and engaging directly – ensured that the event was not a one-way lecture but a genuine conversation. Many participants reported feeling relieved that their concerns were addressed openly, and the Q&A segments helped reinforce the lessons of the talks with practical, personalized advice.

Dance Competition and Prizes

To cap off the program on a celebratory note, the Education Committee organized a lively dance contest. Students were invited to form teams and perform dance routines reflecting Bonny Island culture as well as modern styles. The boys threw themselves into the competition, and the audience – including parents and community leaders – cheered enthusiastically. Judges from the Youth Congress awarded prizes to the top three performances, recognizing creativity, teamwork, and energy. The winning teams received trophies and certificates, and each member also took home additional gifts. In fact, every student at the event received a gift pack as a token of participation. These gift packs contained school supplies (notebooks, pens, and a selection of books) along with snacks and small games. The Education Committee had secured sponsorship from local businesses and community donors to fund these gifts. By blending education with entertainment, the event affirmed that learning can be fun. Seeing their friends dance and smiling as they received their prizes, the boys enjoyed a sense of pride and camaraderie. Organizers pointed out that these fun elements were not just for enjoyment – they helped the students remember the day’s lessons in a positive, memorable setting.

Participating Schools

Students attended from a wide range of Finima schools, reflecting the community’s collective investment in youth. Participants came from public and private institutions alike. In particular, the Government Girls Secondary School, Finima and St. Patrick’s Anglican Model School, Finima were well represented at the event. (These schools have frequently collaborated with the FYC Education Committee on past programs.) Younger boys came from Finima’s primary schools and vocational training centres, ensuring that multiple age groups were included. The inclusion of so many schools was a deliberate strategy: the Education Committee had spent the weeks leading up to the event visiting classrooms and inviting students to attend. By drawing in students from across Finima, the event reinforced a sense of unity and demonstrated that the entire community – teachers, parents, and youth leaders – stands together in support of its young men.

Long-Term Mission and Leadership

The Boy Child Day celebration was not a one-off effort, but part of the FYC Education Committee’s sustained mission. Finima’s youth leaders have long prioritized educational and social programs as a path to community development. Under the leadership of FYC Chairman Shedrack Vincent Brown, the Education Committee regularly organizes workshops, debates, scholarship drives, and school tours. In particular, the programs are coordinated through the Office of the Director of Social Affairs (DOS), held by Comrade Abraham Brown. Comrade Abraham Brown has been instrumental in planning this event and others like it. He explained that the committee aims to address not only academic needs but also the character and health of young people. “Investing in our boys today means a stronger Finima tomorrow,” he remarked. He noted that International Day of the Boy Child events are one way to reinforce positive values and give young men role models and information. The day’s festivities aligned with the committee’s broader strategy: pairing serious instruction with enjoyable activities helps keep students engaged while sending a message that the community values them. In essence, the Education Committee sees youth development as an ongoing journey, and Comrade Brown’s office ensures that programs like this one fit into a coordinated plan for social uplift.

Conclusion

The International Day of the Boy Child celebration in Finima was widely hailed as a resounding success. By combining practical education with festive celebration, the FYC Education Committee managed to reach hundreds of students in a meaningful way. Community members remarked on the event’s positive atmosphere: local leaders and parents saw happy, attentive boys leaving with notebooks in hand and smiles on their faces. The knowledge shared – about health, safety, and personal goals – equipped the students with tools for self-preservation and confidence. The lively performances and gifts ensured that the day will be remembered fondly by participants. Community media captured the event with dozens of photographs (for example, students can be seen listening intently in captured moments), creating a visual record of the engagement and joy. In her remarks at the close, a teacher praised the initiative: “This shows our boys that Finima cares about them. They will not forget today.” As the boys dispersed into the afternoon, many were heard discussing what they had learned and planning to share it with their peers and siblings. The Education Committee views this outcome as the greatest reward.

Looking ahead, the Finima Youth Congress Education Committee has pledged to build on this achievement. With the Office of the DOS coordinating future workshops, mentorship programs, and community projects, the spirit of the Boy Child Day is expected to ripple through Finima for months to come. The success of this event underscores a simple truth for the Finima community: when young people are educated, listened to, and celebrated, they become the strongest foundation for the village’s future.