The Chairman Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has been awarded the prestigious 'Izon-Ebi Dou Keme' Award, accompanied by a Certificate of Appreciation and Recognition, by the Ijaw People’s Association (IPA) of Great Britain and Ireland.
The award was presented on Saturday, August 17th, 2024, during the 76th Ijaw Day Celebration and Award Night at the Kervan Banqueting Suite, London. This year’s event marked the association’s 76th year of operation in the UK, under the leadership of Rev. Francis B. Akpanari, President, and Benaebi Benatari Oguoko, General Secretary.
Tompolo, Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, was celebrated as an entrepreneur, businessman, and social transformer. The IPA recognized his lifelong contributions to the cultural revival and development of the Niger Delta region, noting his unwavering commitment to the Ijaw Nation.
The award, regarded as a lifetime achievement, highlights Tompolo's efforts in promoting trado-cultural awareness and his significant impact on the socio-economic and political landscape of the Niger Delta. Chief Mcdonald Igbadiwei, a former member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, represented Tompolo at the event in London.
In their citation, the Ijaw People’s Association of Great Britain and Ireland praised Tompolo as a "treasure to the Ijaw Nation," stating, "He has contributed immensely to the social, economic, and political development of the Ijaw people. His personal sacrifices have ensured the survival and success of the Ijaw Nation, and he has transformed the lives of thousands of young people and others, both directly and indirectly."
The association further described High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo as "a social transformer sent by the Almighty God to uplift the Ijaw Nation."
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including 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, PAP Administrator; 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.
