Theme: Building the Women and Connecting the Citizens: Bridging the Gap for Leadership and Nationhood

The Bridge Builders Initiative for Green Nigeria (BBIGN), a sociopolitical support group for the APC and the Renewed Hope Agenda, convened its South-South Zonal Summit and Inauguration of newly elected zonal officers on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Urokpota Hall, Benin City, Edo State.

The event commenced with the traditional breaking of kola nuts by the eldest man present, representing a native chief. The program was anchored by the Master of Ceremony, Ms. Ikharo Juliana, popularly known as “the Farmer’s Daughter.”

In his welcome address, the Edo State Coordinator, Hon. Comrade Oriaifoh Godwin, reaffirmed BBIGN’s grassroots structure and commitment, pledging 2.5 million votes for President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of the “ever ready to rescue” Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okebholo.

The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Dr. Kopimo Ezekiel, in his inaugural remarks, paid glowing tribute to the Senate President, H.E. Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, describing him as the foremost political leader from the South-South. He pledged the group’s steadfast support for his leadership and administration.

Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Rex Eka Ochejipinu, North Central Vice President of BBIGN, charged women to rise to the challenge of leadership. He observed that many women in the past shied away from social responsibilities but stressed that the time for change had come.

“No nation can rise above the quality of its women,” Hon. Rex Eka declared. “As gatekeepers and nation-builders, your roles are irreplaceable. It is time to stand up, support one another, and show the younger generation that women are not just participants but leaders and standard-bearers in nationhood.”
He further encouraged collaboration, saying:
“When women build together, they bridge the gap for leadership and citizenship. Let us raise the bar higher and prove that a woman’s worth is indeed more precious than rubies.”

The women came out en masse to support their own, Hajiya Rahina Haruna, Edo State Women Leader, whose proven capacity was evident throughout the summit. This show of strength was reflected in the new executive, where women occupied more than 40% of leadership positions, earning widespread commendation.

Adding colour and cultural vibrance to the occasion, the National President of the Radio, Television and Theatre Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), Comr Prince Emeka Kalu, popularly known as “Majic Finger,” who also double as National Secretary, Board of Trustees, BBIGN, delivered a goodwill message. He commended BBIGN for its vision and applauded the group for “launching out with purpose.” His performance of a traditional cultural dance electrified the atmosphere and drew resounding applause.

The high point of the summit was the formal inauguration of the South-South leaders by the National President of BBIGN, Dr. Emmanuel Chigoziri Orgwu, who charged the zonal leaders to remain steadfast and visionary in their mandate. Barr. Andrew Orion Egbule administered the oath of office to the South-South Zonal Officers, the Edo State Executive of BBIGN, as well as various State Coordinators across the region.

In his speech, Dr. Orgwu:
Thanked President Tinubu for carrying South-South sons and daughters along in his government.
Applauded the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, for the impactful work he is doing.
Strongly condemned the activities of the so-called “coalition” and their leaders, urging members to remain focused and united.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by King Stanley Okpuge Ovbokhan, who warmly appreciated guests, dignitaries, and members for their contributions to the success of the event.
With the inauguration now complete, the Bridge Builders Initiative for Green Nigeria has reinforced its role as a unifying platform for political mobilization, women empowerment, and civic engagement across the South-South, standing firmly behind the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Signed: 

Miriam David
Rivers State Publicity Secretary/Media Assistant to the National President, BBIGN