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By: Odieh Ramon, Yenagoa.

‎After years of meritorious service in the pen profession, over ninety journalists in Bayelsa State will be celebrated for their immense contribution to the development of journalism in the State.
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‎This was contained in a statement signed by the convener of the programme, Mr Ovieteme George ahead of the programme slated in Yenagoa.
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‎The statement notes that the event will take place on the 14th of February, 2026 by 8:00am at the Samson Siasia Stadium, with a football match amongst the retired journalists as part of the fun for the celebration.
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‎According to him, the essence of the programme was to celebrate those in the journalism profession who have impacted society positively over the years through their wealth of experience on the job.
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‎The statement notes that the personalities that would be honoured include: Ann Koko-Abidde, former General Manager of 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.
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‎Others are Mr Chris Odi, retired Director of the Ministry of Information; Preye Wariowei, immediate past General Manager of New Waves newspaper; Mr Barikumo Adou, former Zonal Director South South in Federal Radio Corporation; Mr Ebi Avi; Mr Mablas Macaulay Akpuluma Jnr; Mr Fred Fabor, retired General Manager NDTV; Mr Loveday Herbert; Nelson Oweifaghawari; Nengi ‘Pope Pen’ Ilagha; Pamela Seibidor and Seiyefa Uzaka, former NUJ chairman.
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‎It explained that the other notable names are: 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, amongst other celebrants.
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‎Mr. George urged members of the press and the public to be part of the historical event that is designed to honour those who have impacted the younger generation of journalists in the State