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Ogbia Conversation Forum
Virtual Conference 2025
Envisioning Ogbia’s Future: A Multidisciplinary Roadmap for Sustainable Development and Opportunities
Join us for the inaugural Ogbia Conversation Platform Global Virtual Conference, a transformative event dedicated to shaping the future of Ogbia through innovative ideas, global expertise, and collaborative solutions.
Date
October 26, 2025
Time
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nigerian 🇳🇬 Time
Platform
Zoom
(Link sent upon registration)
This event will unite scholars, policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders from around the world to craft a roadmap for Ogbia’s sustainable development. We aim to foster dialogue, harness global perspectives, and co-create actionable strategies to address Ogbia’s developmental challenges while unlocking its potential in education, infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and economic empowerment.
Ogbia, a vital part of Nigeria’s Niger Delta, holds immense potential but faces developmental challenges. The Ogbia Conversation Platform seeks to position Ogbia, in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, as a beacon of progress and opportunity.
Why Attend?
  • Engage with global scholars and thought leaders on innovative development strategies.
  • Explore opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure in Ogbia.
  • Collaborate on a roadmap prioritizing sustainability, youth empowerment, and economic diversification.
  • Amplify Ogbia’s voice globally, fostering partnerships for progress.
Special Guest of Honour:
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director.
Key Sessions and Takeaways:
We are in the process of selecting distinguished speakers from around the world to share insights and actionable strategies.
  • Keynote Address: A Vision for Ogbia’s Transformation
    Speaker: Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director, NDDC
  • Economic Diversification and Opportunities for Ogbia
    Speaker: To be announced (Global Development Expert).
  • Education and Human Capital Development
    Speaker: To be announced (Education Policy Expert).
  • Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Growth
    Speaker: To be announced (Infrastructure Specialist).
  • Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Development
    Speaker: To be announced (Tech Entrepreneur).
  • Community Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration
    Speaker: To be announced (Social Development Consultant).
  • Panel Discussion: Building a Sustainable Future for Ogbia
    Moderator: To be announced
    Panelists: To be announced (Global scholars, local leaders, and youth representatives).
Special Highlights
  • Opening Remarks: To be delivered by a prominent Ogbia community leader, setting the tone for unity and collective action.
  • Actionable Roadmap: The conference will culminate in a draft Ogbia Development Roadmap 2030, outlining key priorities and strategies to be refined with stakeholders.
How to Participate
  • Cost: Free for all participants ensuring accessibility for Ogbia natives, scholars, and global leaders.
  • Spread the Word: Use the hashtag #OgbiaConversation2025 to join the discussion, spread this message to all Ogbia platforms and amplify Ogbia Conversation vision.
A Call to Action
Ogbia Conversation Platform is a movement to reimagine Ogbia as a hub of opportunity, innovation, and sustainable growth. Let’s come together to learn, connect, and co-create a roadmap that ensures Ogbia thrives for generations to come.
Don’t Forget Zoom, 26th October 2025! 🙌
For inquiries, contact: Admin@ogbiaconversationforum.org
OA | Admin Team OCF
Learn More
Event Details
Date
October 26, 2025
Time
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Nigerian Time
Platform
Zoom (Link sent upon registration)
Cost
Free for all participants
Special Guest
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director
Why Attend This Conference?
Ogbia, a vital part of Nigeria’s Niger Delta, holds immense potential but faces developmental challenges.
Engage with Global Scholars & Thought Leaders
Connect with leading minds from around the world to gain insights on innovative development strategies for Ogbia.
Explore New Opportunities
Discover pathways for education, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure development within Ogbia's evolving landscape.
Collaborate on a Sustainable Roadmap
Contribute to shaping a comprehensive roadmap that prioritizes sustainability, youth empowerment, and economic diversification for Ogbia's future.
Amplify Ogbia’s Voice Globally
Help elevate Ogbia's presence on the international stage and foster crucial partnerships for progress and development.
Key Sessions & Speakers
Distinguished speakers from around the world will share insights and actionable strategies
1
Keynote Address: A Vision for Ogbia's Transformation
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director
2
Economic Diversification and Opportunities for Ogbia
Global Development Expert - TBA
3
Education and Human Capital Development
Education Policy Expert - TBA
4
Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Growth
Infrastructure Specialist - TBA
5
Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Development
Tech Entrepreneur - TBA
6
Community Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration
Social Development Consultant - TBA
7
Panel Discussion: Building a Sustainable Future for Ogbia
Multiple experts - TBA
Special Conference Highlights
Opening Remarks
Delivered by a prominent Ogbia community leader, setting the tone for unity and collective action.
Actionable Roadmap
The conference will culminate in a draft Ogbia Development Roadmap 2030, outlining key priorities and strategies to be refined with stakeholders.
Global Participation
Free access for all participants worldwide, ensuring accessibility for Ogbia natives, scholars, and global leaders.
Community Focus
Unite Ogbia natives, scholars, and global leaders to co-create a roadmap that ensures Ogbia thrives for generations to come.
Spread the Word: Use the hashtag #OgbiaConversation2025 to join the discussion, spread this message to all Ogbia platforms and amplify Ogbia Conversation vision.
Join the Movement for Ogbia's Future
A Call to Action
Ogbia Conversation Platform is a movement to reimagine Ogbia as a hub of opportunity, innovation, and sustainable growth. Let’s come together to learn, connect, and co-create a roadmap that ensures Ogbia thrives for generations to come.
Don’t Forget: Zoom, 26th October 2025! 🙌
For inquiries, contact: Admin@ogbiaconversationforum.org
Ogbia Conversation Forum: United for Peace, Progress, and Prosperity
A non-political pressure group dedicated to restoring the ideals of our founding fathers and shaping a prosperous future for all Ogbia citizens.
Our Mission: Bringing Together like minds from Ogbia Kingdom
Foster Unity
Bringing together like-minded Ogbia citizens from all over the world to address critical issues facing our kingdom, rebuilding the foundations of our shared identity and collective purpose.
Support Leadership
Collaborating with Ogbia leadership to promote good governance, peace, and unity through constructive engagement and community-focused initiatives that transcend political divides.
Drive Development
Implementing actionable resolutions and community-focused initiatives that create tangible improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities throughout Ogbia Kingdom.
The Rich Heritage of Ogbia Kingdom
Ogbia Kingdom, nestled in Bayelsa States, stands as a cornerstone of Nigeria's historical and economic landscape. As the cradle of Nigeria's oil industry with the discovery of oil in Oloibiri in 1956, our kingdom has significantly contributed to the nation's development.
Historically, the Ogbia people are believed to have migrated from the ancient Benin Kingdom around the 15th century, establishing settlements along the tributaries of the Niger Delta. According to oral traditions and historical accounts, the Ogbia people developed sophisticated sociopolitical structures centered around clan-based governance long before colonial contact.
Known for their remarkable expertise in traditional medicine, fishing, and agriculture, the Ogbia people developed a rich cultural heritage that includes the famous "Ogbia Brotherhood" system that emphasized communal values and collective progress. The kingdom has produced notable personalities including Chief Melford Okilo, the first civilian governor of Rivers State, who significantly advanced education in the region.
Our vibrant clans—including Ogbia Town, Oloibiri, Anyama, and Emeyal—are united by a shared cultural heritage and commitment to progress. Despite our natural endowments and the intellectual capacity of our people, Ogbia has faced persistent challenges of underdevelopment and disunity.
Ancient Origins: The Ogbia People Through Time
The history of the Ogbia people is deeply rooted in the ancient tapestry of the Niger Delta, showcasing a rich heritage that extends back millennia. Oral traditions and historical accounts point to a migration from the ancient Benin Kingdom around the 15th century, eventually establishing their distinct identity along the intricate network of Niger Delta tributaries.
As an integral part of the broader Ijaw (Izon) ethnic group, the Ogbia people belong to a lineage considered among Africa's oldest communities. Linguistic and archaeological evidence robustly supports this claim; language studies, in particular, indicate that the Ijaw languages diverged from parent linguistic groups at least 5000 years ago, highlighting an incredibly long and continuous cultural presence in the region.
Early Ogbia settlements were strategically established along the waterways, leveraging the abundant resources of the Delta. This close relationship with their aquatic environment fostered a society skilled in traditional occupations such as fishing, advanced agriculture adapted to the Delta's terrain, and a profound expertise in traditional medicine.
Long before colonial contact, the Ogbia people developed sophisticated clan-based governance systems. These pre-colonial social and political structures were inherently democratic and egalitarian, emphasizing communal decision-making and respect for elders. The renowned "Ogbia Brotherhood" system stands as a testament to their deep-seated communal values, fostering collective progress and mutual support. Their strategic location and mastery of the waterways also connected them to ancient aquatic civilizations, facilitating vibrant trade routes throughout the Niger Delta, underscoring their historical significance in regional commerce and cultural exchange.
Our Story: A Movement Born from Necessity
The Ogbia Conversation Forum emerged from a collective yearning among Ogbia youths and leaders to unite for our kingdom's development. In 2022, through thoughtful consultations led by Mr. Amasueba Bams, our platform was conceived as a direct response to the societal challenges eroding Ogbia's fundamental values.
1
Consultations Begin
Early 2022: Initial discussions among concerned Ogbia citizens about creating a platform to address community challenges and foster unity.
2
Official Launch
July 22, 2022: The Ogbia Conversation Forum is established on WhatsApp as a non-political, inclusive space for constructive dialogue about Ogbia's future.
3
First Initiatives
Late 2022: Implementation of flood relief efforts and commencement of the comprehensive Projects Documentation initiative.
4
Growing Impact
2023-Present: Expansion of initiatives including medical outreaches, the Ogbia People Convention, and ongoing community development projects.
Leadership Structure: Collegiate Model
The Ogbia Conversation Forum operates through a collegiate leadership model that emphasizes teamwork and delegated responsibilities. Decisions are made collaboratively through deliberation among members, with specific tasks assigned to dedicated teams committed to Ogbia's progress.
1
Administrative Team
Mr. Amasueba Bams (Convener/Administrator)
Mr. Opudo Abila (Co-Administrator)
Admin Team provides day-to-day leadership and coordination of forum activities.
2
Standing Delegation
A core team of seven members provides strategic direction and oversight:
  • IRUO BEMOLOGI - Chairman
  • MENI OWORODO - Secretary
  • AKEKERE KOPIAN
  • MAC MOSES DIENAMI
  • JOKORI WALTER
  • ENGR JOHN ATARAM ADUMO
  • DR ASEIMO REMEMBER
Our Impact: Key Achievements
2022 Flood Relief
Provided critical palliative support to displaced Ogbia communities affected by devastating flooding, demonstrating our commitment to immediate community needs.
Project Documentation
Completed a comprehensive assessment of infrastructure needs across Ogbia Kingdom, creating a blueprint for targeted development initiatives.
Ogbia People Convention
Successfully organized a landmark convention in May 2023, bringing together Ogbia citizens to foster unity and strategize for collective development.
Medical Outreach Programs
Launched multiple free healthcare initiatives for elderly and vulnerable populations in Ogbia Township and Onuebum community.
Through these achievements, we have demonstrated our commitment to tangible impact that improves the lives of Ogbia citizens while strengthening our collective identity and purpose.
Infrastructure Vision: Connecting Our Communities
Our Projects Documentation Committee has identified critical infrastructure needs to transform Ogbia Kingdom's accessibility and connectivity, fostering economic growth and improving quality of life.
1
Strategic Link Roads
Construction of vital connections including Onuebum-Ayakoro-Anyama, Otuegila-Amurukeni, and Otuoke-Otuaba-Ogbia Town roads to unite previously isolated communities.
2
Ogbia Town Transformation
Comprehensive development including paved roads with drainage systems, street lighting, standard motor park, public conveniences, and water supply infrastructure to elevate our kingdom's headquarters.
Powering Progress: Electricity Initiatives
Reliable electricity is fundamental to economic development and quality of life. Our comprehensive two-phase plan addresses immediate needs while building sustainable infrastructure for the future.
1
Phase 1: Grid Rehabilitation
Resuscitation of the Imiringi Gas Turbine and rehabilitation of vandalized infrastructure to restore basic power access across Ogbia communities.
2
Phase 2: Network Expansion
Installation of transformers, meters, and construction of new distribution networks to ensure stable, reliable electricity throughout Ogbia Kingdom.
Healthcare: Healing Our Communities
Access to quality healthcare remains a fundamental challenge in many Ogbia communities. Our healthcare initiatives focus on both infrastructure development and direct service provision.
Infrastructure Development
Building a referral hospital in Ayakoro to serve riverine communities, and renovating health centers in Idema, Okoroba, and other communities to improve access to basic healthcare.
Medical Outreach Programs
Providing free medical care to elderly and vulnerable populations in Ogbia Township and Onuebum, addressing immediate healthcare needs while longer-term solutions are implemented.
Medical Outreach: Onuebum Community
Ayama Region, Ogbia Kingdom | Led by Dr. Ozu Ogbagiba Federick
35
Volunteers
Including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab scientists, and support staff
₦2.65M
Total Donations
Enabling comprehensive healthcare services for the community
800+
Beneficiaries
Residents receiving vital medical checks and treatments
Services Provided
Primary Care
Free medical care for chronic diseases and common illnesses with vital signs monitoring
Maternal Health
Care for pregnant women including free antenatal care drugs and consultations
Diagnostics
Free HIV/TB testing, X-rays for chest abnormalities, blood pressure and diabetes screenings
This community-centered initiative has made a significant impact by providing much-needed medical support and health education to residents who otherwise have limited access to healthcare services.
OCF Educational Vanguard Initiative 2025
The Voice of Ogbia: Campus Challenge 2025
Essay Topics (Choose ONE)
  1. "If I Were a Leader in Ogbia: My Five-Year Development Plan"
  1. "Promoting Vocational Training Centres Over Traditional Schools: A Sustainable Path for Ogbia Development"
Essays should explore practical, youth-driven solutions for community development and leadership in Ogbia Kingdom, with a focus on education, innovation, and local empowerment.
Eligibility
  • Must be a current undergraduate student of Ogbia origin in any Nigerian university
All entries must include:
  • Full Name
  • Town in Ogbia LGA
  • University Name
  • Matriculation Number
  • Faculty, Department & Level
  • Personal Email Address
Requirements
  • 2,000-word original essay in Microsoft Word format
  • Must be submitted from the candidate's personal email only
  • Include a reference list (not counted in word count)
  • Strictly no plagiarism or AI-generated content. Turnitin UK will be used to verify originality
Submission Details
Deadline: 8th July 2025 (No extensions)
Prizes to be Won
  • 🥇 1st Place – ₦120,000
  • 🥈 2nd Place – ₦75,000
  • 🥉 3rd Place – ₦50,000
OA - For Admin Team & Standing Delegation Team
#VoiceOfOgbia2025 #OCFYouthChallenge #EssayCompetition #LeadershipForDevelopment
Education & Skills Development: Empowering Our Youth
Education and skills development form the cornerstone of our strategy to build a prosperous future for Ogbia Kingdom. Our initiatives target both formal education infrastructure and practical skills acquisition.
Educational Infrastructure
Construction of lecture theaters and student hostels at Federal University Otuoke, College of Health Technology Otuogidi, and FGGC Imiringi, alongside renovation of primary and secondary schools.
Digital Empowerment
Establishment of ICT centers across Ogbia communities to provide digital literacy training, facilitate JAMB examinations, and connect our youth to global opportunities.
Agricultural Revival: Feeding Our Future
Agriculture remains a vital sector for economic empowerment and food security in Ogbia Kingdom. Our initiatives aim to revitalize traditional farming while introducing modern techniques and support systems.
Rice Production Renaissance
Resuscitation of rice farms in Abobiri and Otakeme communities to restore a historically significant crop to our agricultural portfolio and create employment opportunities.
Farmer Support Systems
Provision of soft loans and technical assistance to farmers engaged in cassava, plantain, and other crop production to enhance yields and market access.
Environmental Protection: Preserving Our Natural Heritage
The environmental challenges facing Ogbia Kingdom require urgent attention to protect both our natural resources and the safety of our communities. Our initiatives address critical environmental concerns through targeted interventions.
Waterway Restoration
Opening blocked portions of Kolo Creek at Okarki to improve water flow, reduce flooding risk, and restore traditional transportation routes.
Shoreline Protection
Implementing comprehensive shoreline protection along the Ikoli River in Anyama, Ayakoro, and other vulnerable communities to combat erosion and preserve valuable land.
Cultural Renaissance: The Obenobhan Palace Project
At the heart of our cultural restoration efforts is the vision to construct a befitting Royal Palace at Ogbia Town—the Obenobhan Palace. This landmark project represents more than mere architecture; it embodies our commitment to honoring our heritage while building for the future.
The Obenobhan Palace will serve as a center of power and unity for Ogbia people worldwide, symbolizing the cultural and administrative heart of the kingdom. It will stand as a testament to our shared identity, providing a dignified space for royal functions, cultural celebrations, and the preservation of our traditions for generations to come.
Addressing Social Challenges
Disunity
Creating platforms for dialogue and collaboration among Ogbia communities to overcome historical divisions and build collective identity.
Drug Abuse
Implementing awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs to combat the growing menace of substance abuse among Ogbia youth.
Insecurity
Advocating for security infrastructure like military checkpoints at strategic locations to address kidnapping, cultism, and sea piracy.
Leadership Gaps
Fostering a new generation of responsible leaders committed to transparent governance and community development.
Through targeted interventions and community engagement, we are confronting these challenges head-on to create a safer, more unified Ogbia Kingdom.
Our Operational Committees
The Ogbia Conversation Forum operates through specialized committees, each tasked with specific objectives to advance our mission. These dedicated teams of volunteers drive our initiatives from concept to completion.
Projects Documentation Committee
Led by Sir Robert Joseph Nadioni, this committee has created a comprehensive blueprint for Ogbia's development needs, guiding our advocacy and implementation efforts.
Free Medical Outreach Committee
Organizing and implementing healthcare services for vulnerable populations across Ogbia communities, bringing essential medical care to those who need it most.
Peace Pathfinder Committee
Working to resolve conflicts and promote harmony among Ogbia communities through dialogue, cultural understanding, and shared development goals.
Strategic Partnerships: Amplifying Our Impact
The Ogbia Conversation Forum recognizes that achieving our ambitious development goals requires strategic partnerships with government agencies, private sector entities, and international organizations.
NDDC Engagement
We have formed a high-powered delegation to engage with Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, to secure support for critical Ogbia projects.
Community Collaboration
Our Peace Intervention Committee works closely with community stakeholders to resolve conflicts and create an environment conducive to development, particularly around the Oloibiri Museum and Research Center.
Youth Empowerment: Voices of Ogbia
Recognizing that youth are the future of Ogbia Kingdom, we have launched "The Voices of Ogbia," an essay competition engaging university students to articulate their visions for Ogbia's future. This initiative serves multiple purposes:
Intellectual Engagement
Encouraging critical thinking and solution-oriented approaches to Ogbia's developmental challenges among our brightest young minds.
Leadership Development
Identifying and nurturing future leaders who demonstrate passion, insight, and commitment to Ogbia's progress.
Inclusive Vision-Building
Incorporating fresh perspectives and innovative ideas from the younger generation into our development strategies.
Our Rules of Engagement
To maintain a constructive and respectful platform for dialogue, the Ogbia Conversation Forum adheres to strict rules of engagement that promote unity and solution-focused discussions.
Respectful Dialogue
No criticism or abusive language; respond with rational opinions that contribute to constructive discussion.
Personal Accountability
Introduce yourself before sharing opinions, taking ownership of your contributions to our collective dialogue.
Solutions Focus
Concentrate discussions on solutions to Ogbia's challenges rather than dwelling on problems without proposing remedies.
Non-Political Stance
Prohibit political or manipulative discussions that might divide our community along partisan lines.
These principles ensure that our forum remains a safe, productive space for all members committed to Ogbia's development.
Join Our Movement
The Ogbia Conversation Forum invites all sons and daughters of Ogbia Kingdom to join our movement for peace, progress, and prosperity. Whether you reside in Ogbia, elsewhere in Nigeria, or in the diaspora, your contributions are valuable to our collective mission.
Join Our WhatsApp Platform
Connect with like-minded Ogbia citizens in our vibrant online community where ideas are shared and initiatives are born.
Volunteer for Committees
Contribute your expertise to one of our specialized committees working on healthcare, education, infrastructure, or other critical areas.
Support Our Initiatives
Provide financial or material support to our community development projects and outreach programs.
Donations can be made to:
Name: Ogbia Conversation Forum
Account Number: 2006278954
Bank: FCMB
Celebrated Leaders of Ogbia Kingdom
Ogbia Kingdom has produced exceptional leaders who have not only brought pride to our community but have also made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria. We celebrate these visionaries who exemplify the best of Ogbia's heritage and potential.
One of the enduring legacies of our leaders is the Federal University Otuoke (FUO), established in 2011 during Dr. Goodluck Jonathan's presidency. Located in Otuoke, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, this institution of higher learning has transformed educational opportunities for our youth. The university offers diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple faculties, serving as a center of academic excellence in the Niger Delta region. Through quality education and research, FUO continues to empower the next generation of leaders from Ogbia Kingdom and beyond.
Chief Melford Okilo: The Great Sage of Ogbia
A towering figure in Nigeria's political history, Chief Melford Okilo blazed the trail as the first civilian Governor of old Rivers State (1979-1983). His visionary leadership transformed the region through massive infrastructural developments and social reforms. As a dedicated son of Ogbia, he championed policies that brought development to previously neglected communities and advocated for resource control and environmental justice for the Niger Delta region.
Chief Okilo's legacy extends beyond politics—as a respected elder statesman, his wisdom and foresight earned him the title of "The Great Sage" whose counsel was sought by leaders across Nigeria. His life embodied the values of integrity, service, and unwavering commitment to community development that continue to inspire generations of Ogbia leaders.
Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan: From Otuoke to Aso Rock
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan's remarkable journey from the humble community of Otuoke in Ogbia Kingdom to Nigeria's highest office represents one of the most inspiring political narratives in modern African history. Rising from Deputy Governor to Governor of Bayelsa State, then Vice President and ultimately President of Nigeria (2010-2015), his ascension broke barriers and brought international recognition to Ogbia Kingdom.
President Jonathan's leadership was marked by significant economic reforms, educational initiatives, and a peaceful transition of power that earned global acclaim. His statesmanship during and after his presidency established him as an advocate for democracy and peaceful elections across Africa. Today, he continues to serve as an international diplomat and peace envoy, representing not just Nigeria but the promise and potential of Ogbia's sons and daughters on the world stage.
These distinguished leaders exemplify the spirit of excellence, service, and dignity that characterizes Ogbia Kingdom. Their achievements remind us that from our communities can rise leaders who shape not just local development but national destiny. The Ogbia Conversation Forum draws inspiration from these remarkable legacies as we work toward creating new pathways for emerging leaders from our kingdom.
Contact Us
Ready to join the conversation about Ogbia's future? Connect with us through our various channels to learn more about our initiatives, share your ideas, or volunteer your time and resources.
WhatsApp Platform
Join our established WhatsApp group "Ogbia Conversation Platform" founded on July 22, 2022, where most of our discussions and updates take place.
Physical Address
Ogbia Town, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Visit us to learn more about our activities and how you can contribute.
Official Communications
Contact our administrative team for official inquiries, partnership proposals, or to request information about joining our specialized committees. Phone: 08038938039 | Email: Admin@ogbiaconversationforum.org