High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, has been awarded the esteemed ‘Izon-Ebi Dou Keme’ Award by the Ijaw People’s Association (IPA) of Great Britain and Ireland. This honor, along with a Certificate of Appreciation and Recognition, was bestowed upon him on Saturday, August 17th, 2024, during the 76th Ijaw Day Celebration and Award Night held at the Kervan Banqueting Suite in London.
The 76th Ijaw Day Celebration marks a significant milestone for the association, reflecting its long-standing commitment to promoting the culture and interests of the Ijaw people in the United Kingdom. The event was orchestrated under the leadership of Rev. Francis B. Akpanari, President of the IPA, and Benaebi Benatari Oguoko, General Secretary, who have both played pivotal roles in the association’s sustained growth and influence.
Tompolo, renowned for his entrepreneurship, business acumen, and social activism, was recognized for his lifelong dedication to the cultural revival and socio-economic development of the Niger Delta region. His unwavering commitment to the Ijaw Nation and his role as a catalyst for positive change in the region were central to his receiving this prestigious lifetime achievement award.
The ‘Izon-Ebi Dou Keme’ Award is a significant accolade that underscores Tompolo’s efforts in promoting traditional and cultural awareness within the Ijaw community and beyond. The IPA’s citation lauded him as a “treasure to the Ijaw Nation,” highlighting his immense contributions to the social, economic, and political advancements of the Ijaw people. The citation further emphasized Tompolo’s personal sacrifices and his impact on the lives of thousands, both directly and indirectly, through his various initiatives and support for youth empowerment.
Chief Mcdonald Igbadiwei, a former member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, represented Tompolo at the award ceremony in London, accepting the honor on his behalf. In his acceptance speech, Chief Igbadiwei expressed Tompolo’s deep appreciation for the recognition and reiterated his ongoing commitment to the welfare and development of the Ijaw Nation.
The Ijaw People’s Association also recognized Tompolo as a “social transformer sent by the Almighty God to uplift the Ijaw Nation,” a sentiment that was echoed by many of the dignitaries present at the event.
The award ceremony was graced by a host of distinguished guests, including traditional rulers and leaders from the Niger Delta. Notable attendees included HRM Shadrack Erebulu, Pere of Kabowei Kingdom; King Dakolo, Pere of Ekpetiama and Chairman of the Bayelsa Traditional Council; Joshua Igbugburu, Pere of Bomu Kingdom; Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP); the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC); the President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC); British government officials; representatives from the Nigerian Embassy; and leaders from business, civil society, and environmental organizations across Europe.
The event not only celebrated Tompolo’s achievements but also served as a platform for strengthening ties within the Ijaw nation and fostering cultural exchange between the Ijaw people and the broader international community.
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