The College of Education Warri (COEWA) chapter of the National Union of Izon-Ibe Students (NUIS) led by its President, Comrade Abednego Douperegha, has honoured distinguished sons of the Izon Nation, including the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), High Chief Engr Kestin Pondi, with awards of excellence in recognition of their contribution to the growth of the student body.

The awards of excellence were presented on Wednesday, August 5, 2025, during the Izon Cultural Day celebration which held in the COEWA playfield under the chairmanship of Comr. Goodluck Ekpebide, who was also a recipient of the awards.

According to the NUIS COEWA Chapter President, the award to the Ibe- Benimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom and MD of TSSNL, is a demonstration of their appreciation for Chief Pondi's massive support which helped revitalised the Izon language by sponsoring hundreds of students in College of Education Warri to study the Izon language.

Comrade Douperegha also revealed that the Tantita's MD, who is the Father of the Day, has also continued to support the student body with his yearly contribution to the success of Izon Cultural Day celebration at the COEWA.

Other recipients include Comr. Columbus Azor, Comr. Benjamin Oyakoghan, Comr. Awipi Lawson, Comr. Prince Anderson Dunukoromor, Hon. King Marchine, Chief Engr. Dickson Ogugu, Hon. Tama Forteta, and Chief Mrs Esther Bibiowei A.K.A. Warri Mama.

Also honoured with awards are the Dean of Students Affair, Dr. Ajueyitse Martins Otuedon (JP), who the union described as "a father to students" in recognition of his laudable support of the Izon Cultural Day celebration.

The Union also honoured Dr. Newman Kusimi for his integrity and support for students through scholarships, Engr. Michael Tonlagha for his philanthropy and generosity to humanity as well as his contribution and support for NUIS, and Maureen Tuesday Selekebina Bolo, who emerged as the Best Exco Member of the Year 2026.

The cultural day celebration featured traditional dance, wresting competition, drama presentation, and other forms of entertainment, with a lecture from Guest Speaker, Dr. Shadrach Ebegha, a lecturer in COEWA. 

The President also attributed this year's edition to support from Stakeholders Comrade Ekpebide, Comrade Oyakoghan Benjamin, Comr. Awipi Lawson, Comr. Kala-ere Jackson, Prince Anderson Dunukoromor, Hon. King Marching, Mr Columbus Azor, among others.

View photos on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EKmoVRoA8/