October 26, 2025
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nigerian 🇳🇬 Time
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.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director.
We are in the process of selecting distinguished speakers from around the world to share insights and actionable strategies.
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
October 26, 2025
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Nigerian Time
Zoom (Link sent upon registration)
Free for all participants
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director
Ogbia, a vital part of Nigeria’s Niger Delta, holds immense potential but faces developmental challenges.
Connect with leading minds from around the world to gain insights on innovative development strategies for Ogbia.
Discover pathways for education, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure development within Ogbia's evolving landscape.
Contribute to shaping a comprehensive roadmap that prioritizes sustainability, youth empowerment, and economic diversification for Ogbia's future.
Help elevate Ogbia's presence on the international stage and foster crucial partnerships for progress and development.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director
Global Development Expert - TBA
Education Policy Expert - TBA
Infrastructure Specialist - TBA
Tech Entrepreneur - TBA
Social Development Consultant - TBA
Multiple experts - TBA
Delivered by a prominent Ogbia community leader, setting the tone for unity and collective action.
The conference will culminate in a draft Ogbia Development Roadmap 2030, outlining key priorities and strategies to be refined with stakeholders.
Free access for all participants worldwide, ensuring accessibility for Ogbia natives, scholars, and global leaders.
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.
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
A non-political pressure group dedicated to restoring the ideals of our founding fathers and shaping a prosperous future for all Ogbia citizens.
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.
Collaborating with Ogbia leadership to promote good governance, peace, and unity through constructive engagement and community-focused initiatives that transcend political divides.
Implementing actionable resolutions and community-focused initiatives that create tangible improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities throughout 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.

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.
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.
Early 2022: Initial discussions among concerned Ogbia citizens about creating a platform to address community challenges and foster unity.
July 22, 2022: The Ogbia Conversation Forum is established on WhatsApp as a non-political, inclusive space for constructive dialogue about Ogbia's future.
Late 2022: Implementation of flood relief efforts and commencement of the comprehensive Projects Documentation initiative.
2023-Present: Expansion of initiatives including medical outreaches, the Ogbia People Convention, and ongoing community development projects.
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.
Mr. Amasueba Bams (Convener/Administrator)
Mr. Opudo Abila (Co-Administrator)
Admin Team provides day-to-day leadership and coordination of forum activities.
A core team of seven members provides strategic direction and oversight:
Provided critical palliative support to displaced Ogbia communities affected by devastating flooding, demonstrating our commitment to immediate community needs.
Completed a comprehensive assessment of infrastructure needs across Ogbia Kingdom, creating a blueprint for targeted development initiatives.
Successfully organized a landmark convention in May 2023, bringing together Ogbia citizens to foster unity and strategize for collective development.
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.
Preamble
Ogbia Conversation Platform is a non-political, community-focused group established to unite Ogbia citizens in promoting constructive dialogue, proposing solutions, and implementing actions for the unity and sustainable development of Ogbia Kingdom. These Rules and Regulations, as agreed by the admin team, outline the standards for respectful, productive, and inclusive interactions.
Scope
These rules applies to all members of Ogbia Conversation Platform WhatsApp group, across all communities within Ogbia Kingdom, to ensure consistent adherence to the platform’s mission and values.
Members shall refrain from negative criticism, personal attacks, insults, or abusive language against any individual, group, or leader. All contributions must be constructive, factual, and solution-oriented.
Every official message must include the member’s full name (e.g., “John Doe, Kolo”) for transparency and accountability.
Healthy questioning and debates are encouraged but must remain respectful, relevant to Ogbia affairs, and grounded in facts, avoiding exaggeration or misinformation.
Derogatory, mocking, or snide remarks against any member, Ogbia leader, elder, or traditional ruler—past or present—are strictly prohibited.
All posts must pertain to Ogbia Local Government’s issues, unity, or development. Off-topic posts, spam, chain messages, or advertisements are prohibited.
Discussions on political campaigns, partisan endorsements, or divisive topics (e.g., political oppositions) are strictly banned with zero tolerance. However, if Ogbia produces a candidate during primary elections, members may rally to support the candidate at that time. Until then, political discussions are prohibited to maintain unity.
Content promoting violence, insecurity, or divisiveness, including videos, photos, or texts, is strictly prohibited.
Members must verify information before sharing. Spreading unverified news, rumors, or false allegations is prohibited.
Messages promoting peace and unity are encouraged, but debates or statements that could lead to religious or communal division are prohibited.
Sharing personal information, photos, or private messages of others without consent is prohibited.
Disrespecting Ogbia elders, traditional rulers, or individuals in positions affecting Ogbia (e.g., public office holders) is prohibited. Constructive criticism must be factual, courteous, and solution-oriented.
Members shall avoid flooding the group with multiple consecutive messages or unnecessary forwarded content to maintain orderly and inclusive discussions.
Admins may delete content deemed disruptive, inflammatory, or harmful and may issue warnings, suspensions, or removals at their discretion.
Members must report rule breaches privately to admins rather than confronting individuals publicly to avoid escalating tensions.
Members are encouraged to contribute to the Ogbia Conversation Platform Trust Fund to support community projects, such as educational sponsorships, seminars, and medical outreaches.
Includes occasional off-topic posts, minor lapses in tone, or unintentional breaches of decorum.
Includes repeated non-derogatory but unconstructive criticism or persistent off-topic posting.
Issued for minor misconduct to allow correction.
Temporary removal from the group for repeated or severe violations, pending corrective action (e.g., written apology).
Applied for persistent gross misconduct or refusal to comply with disciplinary measures.
Members will have the option to pay fines ranging from ₦1,000.00 to ₦50,000.00, depending on the nature and severity of the offense. This option may be exercised in accordance with the agreement of admin and the individual concerned
Voluntary contributions and fines paid to the Trust Fund will support community projects, including:
Proposals to amend these Rules and Regulations may be submitted to admins for review and implementation at their discretion.
Signed:
Ogbia Conversation Admin Team
Date: 23rd September 2025
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.
Construction of vital connections including Onuebum-Ayakoro-Anyama, Otuegila-Amurukeni, and Otuoke-Otuaba-Ogbia Town roads to unite previously isolated communities.
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.
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.
Resuscitation of the Imiringi Gas Turbine and rehabilitation of vandalized infrastructure to restore basic power access across Ogbia communities.
Installation of transformers, meters, and construction of new distribution networks to ensure stable, reliable electricity throughout Ogbia Kingdom.

Access to quality healthcare remains a fundamental challenge in many Ogbia communities. Our healthcare initiatives focus on both infrastructure development and direct service provision.
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.
Providing free medical care to elderly and vulnerable populations in Ogbia Township and Onuebum, addressing immediate healthcare needs while longer-term solutions are implemented.
Including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab scientists, and support staff
Enabling comprehensive healthcare services for the community
Residents receiving vital medical checks and treatments
Free medical care for chronic diseases and common illnesses with vital signs monitoring
Care for pregnant women including free antenatal care drugs and consultations
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.
Essays should explore practical, youth-driven solutions for community development and leadership in Ogbia Kingdom, with a focus on education, innovation, and local empowerment.
All entries must include:
Email Submissions to:
OgbiaConversationForum@Gmail.com
Deadline: 8th July 2025 (No extensions)
OA - For Admin Team & Standing Delegation Team
#VoiceOfOgbia2025 #OCFYouthChallenge #EssayCompetition #LeadershipForDevelopment

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.
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.
Establishment of ICT centers across Ogbia communities to provide digital literacy training, facilitate JAMB examinations, and connect our youth to global opportunities.
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.
Resuscitation of rice farms in Abobiri and Otakeme communities to restore a historically significant crop to our agricultural portfolio and create employment opportunities.
Provision of soft loans and technical assistance to farmers engaged in cassava, plantain, and other crop production to enhance yields and market access.
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.
Opening blocked portions of Kolo Creek at Okarki to improve water flow, reduce flooding risk, and restore traditional transportation routes.
Implementing comprehensive shoreline protection along the Ikoli River in Anyama, Ayakoro, and other vulnerable communities to combat erosion and preserve valuable land.

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.
Creating platforms for dialogue and collaboration among Ogbia communities to overcome historical divisions and build collective identity.
Implementing awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs to combat the growing menace of substance abuse among Ogbia youth.
Advocating for security infrastructure like military checkpoints at strategic locations to address kidnapping, cultism, and sea piracy.
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.
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.
Led by Sir Robert Joseph Nadioni, this committee has created a comprehensive blueprint for Ogbia's development needs, guiding our advocacy and implementation efforts.
Organizing and implementing healthcare services for vulnerable populations across Ogbia communities, bringing essential medical care to those who need it most.
Working to resolve conflicts and promote harmony among Ogbia communities through dialogue, cultural understanding, and shared development goals.

The Ogbia Conversation Forum recognizes that achieving our ambitious development goals requires strategic partnerships with government agencies, private sector entities, and international organizations.
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.
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.
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:
Encouraging critical thinking and solution-oriented approaches to Ogbia's developmental challenges among our brightest young minds.
Identifying and nurturing future leaders who demonstrate passion, insight, and commitment to Ogbia's progress.
Incorporating fresh perspectives and innovative ideas from the younger generation into our development strategies.
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.
No criticism or abusive language; respond with rational opinions that contribute to constructive discussion.
Introduce yourself before sharing opinions, taking ownership of your contributions to our collective dialogue.
Concentrate discussions on solutions to Ogbia's challenges rather than dwelling on problems without proposing remedies.
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.
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.
Connect with like-minded Ogbia citizens in our vibrant online community where ideas are shared and initiatives are born.
Contribute your expertise to one of our specialized committees working on healthcare, education, infrastructure, or other critical areas.
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

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.
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 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.
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.
Join our established WhatsApp group "Ogbia Conversation Platform" founded on July 22, 2022, where most of our discussions and updates take place.
Ogbia Town, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Visit us to learn more about our activities and how you can contribute.
Contact our administrative team for official inquiries, partnership proposals, or to request information about joining our specialized committees. Phone: 08038938039 | Email: Admin@ogbiaconversationforum.org
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.