The Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) has honoured veteran journalists in Bayelsa State with generous cash rewards during a novelty football match which took place at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, the State capital, on Valentine's Day, celebrated globally on February 14, 2026.

The thrilling 60-minute novelty football match featuring four teams of veteran journalists was put together by the lead organizer, Mr. Ovieteme George, a journalist, who disclosed that the event was to reunite and honour journalists in the State.

The event witnessed the presentation of Awards of Appreciation and the announcement of ₦1 million cash gifts by TSSNL to each of the veteran journalists numbering 100, and a declaration of ₦5 million each for octogenarians (those aged 80 years and above).

The cash gift presentation stirred emotions and drew outstanding ovations as elderly journalists were assisted forward amid cheers and applause to collect their cash gifts.

Speaking shortly, Mr. George, in his remarks, expressed profound gratitude to Tantita for transforming what began as a hopeful idea into a historic reality, noting that, at the conception of the event, he had worried about the daunting task of securing sponsors.

According to him, the Tantita’s Managing Director, High Chief (Engr.) Kestin Pondi FNIIS FNSE, embraced the vision wholeheartedly and declared that the company would solely sponsor the celebration and honour the veterans.

The lead organiser paid tribute to journalists, living and departed, who laid the foundation for journalism in Bayelsa State and mentored younger professionals like himself.

In her remarks, Miss Daisy Jaja, the Administrative Manager at TSSNL, described journalists as the conscience of society, the fourth estate of the realm, who ensured news gets to every corner and the bridge between leadership and the people. 

She noted that Tantita’s mission goes beyond safeguarding national assets to protecting human capital and community value, stressing that, “Corporate Social Responsibility is not a ceremonial obligation to us; it is a moral covenant. Security is not only about pipelines and facilities, but also about preserving dignity, restoring hope, and honouring those who have served the nation.

"Today’s gesture is not charity; it is gratitude in action. As we secure Nigeria’s critical assets, we remain committed to investing in people and uplifting communities across the Niger Delta and beyond,” she stated, buttressing the belief of High Chief Pondi that those who told society’s stories in the past must not be forgotten.

One of the beneficiaries, Timiebi Sami Ebiye, Director of News/Current Affairs, Radio Rivers/Radio Bayelsa (Rtd), in his deep appreciation, said, “Since the inception of this state, this has never happened. In fact, it hardly happens anywhere. If Tantita truly understands the depth of what they have done here today and how much this means to us, they will be more fulfilled than we are. This is a lifetime of service, some long forgotten, being honoured and celebrated today. God bless Tantita and High Chief Kestin Pondi for coming all the way to Bayelsa to make old journalists happy and proud once again.”

In attendance were Mr. Idama Amurun Head of Field Operations, and members of the NNPCL Project Management Office (PMO); the Head of Service of Bayelsa State, Dr. Josephine Igodo MNI (Rtd); Pastor David Walefaso of Charismatic Renaissance Int’l Church, and the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Chapter, Mr. Yemoleigha Tonye, who assisted in the presentation of awards and cheque.

#penglobalcommunity #TSSNL #Bayelsa #Valentine #NigerDelta