A retired United States Army Intelligence Analyst, Mr. Kingsley Dike, has described Unity Hall at Government House, Asaba, Delta State, as an emerging national platform for policy dialogue, saying the venue is steadily gaining recognition through the Maris Annual Public Service Lecture.
Since 2020, the Maris Annual Public Service Lecture series — a forum designed to stimulate conversations and propose solutions to societal challenges — has been held at Unity Hall every Wednesday preceding Easter Sunday.
Speaking on the growing stature of the lecture, Dike, a former Foreign Affairs Reporter with The Guardian Newspapers, commended the consistency of the platform in addressing issues of national relevance.
“I love this lineup for this very important topic: ‘Insecurity: Bane of Nigeria’s Unity and Progress,’” he said.
He noted that the Maris Lecture has evolved into a respected arena for ideas, debate, and engagement among stakeholders from different sectors.
“Courtesy of you and the Maris Lecture series, Unity Hall is fast becoming Nigeria’s ‘Chatham House,’ where pressing national and societal issues are deliberated upon, incisive debates are held, and solutions are offered by experienced experts and professionals from all walks of life. This is democracy in action,” Dike stated.
This year’s edition of the Maris Lecture is scheduled for Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.
Nigeria’s 17th Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, will deliver the keynote address titled, “Insecurity: Bane of Nigeria’s Unity and Progress.”
The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, will serve as Special Guest of Honour at the event. At the same time, former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dele Ezeoba, will chair the occasion.
Other participants unveiled for the lecture include Prof. Hope Eghagha and Sir Mike Ejiofor, a former Director of the Department of State Services, as discussants. Prof. Kemi Emina, the OdiEga of Ebu Kingdom, will moderate the session.
Responding to Dike’s remarks, Sir Fidelis Egugbo, Secretary of the Maris Trust Council and Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed appreciation for the recognition and support.
“Collectively, we can build a better society,” Egugbo said.
