By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – IN a bid to place the Niger Delta region on the path of growth and development, a former Regional Director, International Operations, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Stella Fubara, yesterday, called on Niger Deltans to promote hard-work, excellence and resilience to change the narrative.

Fubara made the call as a Guest Speaker at the 15th Edition of the Eve Afrique Red Ball and Heart of Gold Award ceremony with the theme ‘Restoring the Pride of the Niger Delta’, where she made it clear that all Niger Deltans have the responsibility to work in synergy to transform the region and not to wait for one hero or strong individual to do the job.

The award ceremony also had in attendance, renowned Ijaw Gospel Asu Ekiye fondly known as the ‘Prince of the Niger Delta’; Mrs Tonye Briggs Oniyide, a trail blazer in culture, tourism and public service and the MD Abuja Investment Company Limited Mrs Maureen Tamuno.

Others are Otunbress Timi Peggotty Dumbo,a multifaceted entrepreneur and Philanthropist,Hon Boma Iyaye, Executive Director ( Finance And Administration) Niger Delta Development commission; Dr Daere Akobo an entrepreneur and Philanthropist, Mr Idaere Gogo Ogan, a boardroom guru and economist; Samy Nasreddin; Richard Akinaka;and Tantita Security Service Nigeria Limited.

She said: “We are gathered here for a theme that should shake us to our core, ‘Restoring the Pride of the Niger Delta’. Our Pride was not stolen overnight, it did not disappear by accident, it was eroded by decades of neglect, exploitation, division and disillusionment.

“But here is the truth. A Pride can be lost so it can be reclaimed. I make a call for integrity, for excellence and hard-work because that is what it will take to bring our Pride back. No handouts, no saviours, no excuses, it will take all of us here to make impact.”

Also reaffirming what Fubara said another speaker at the event, Yibo Koko pointed out that vision remains paramount in the bid to reclaim the Pride of Niger Delta.

“If you lack vision, then you can’t see. The whole idea is to see and if we can’t see the beauty of the region, then you can’t be brilliant enough to bring it back. So, what eve Afrique Red Ball is doing is create an avenue for us to see and then reclaim it”, Koko said.

Meanwhile, the organiser and Publisher of Eve Afrique News, Ivy Davies Etokakpan, earlier on an address of welcome explained that the 2025 Red Ball is not merely an event it is a rallying call for collective action and change.

“We need you to stand with us as we reignite the Pride of the Niger Delta , working hand in hand to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come. The Eve Afrique Red Ball has grown in prestige and impact thanks to the unwavering dedication of our team and the invaluable support of our partners.

“Now more than ever,it is time to reclaim the regions lost glory and pave the way toward a renewed and resilient future.

“Our vision for the 15th Edition Red Ball is restoration anchored in a multifaceted approach that will focus on revitalising our environment, fostering economic empowerment, building sustainable infrastructure, promoting social cohesion and advancing health and education.

“Each of these pillars represents a crucial step in restoring the Niger to it’s rightful place as a region of strength,unity and boundless potential.”