~ 𝐉𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐤𝐩𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐢 𝐓𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐬 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐒𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠

 

Yenagoa, August 18, 2025 – The National President of the Ijaw Youth Council, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, attended the STAM’s Soiree 2025 and the book launch of “The Man Called Elizabeth Martins” authored by Barr. Theresa Ebi Tobuyei on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the Best Western Plus Hotel Conference Hall in Yenagoa.

 

During the event, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr delivered a lecture on the topic “Read, Create, Lead,” where he extensively discussed the concept of reading, its importance, and benefits. He emphasized that reading is the foundation upon which effective creation and leadership are built, stressing that one cannot lead effectively without being well-informed and knowledgeable.

 

According to him, reading broadens one’s perspective, enhances critical thinking, and fosters creativity. He urged the audience, particularly the youths, to imbibe a reading culture, highlighting that it is through reading that individuals can acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective leaders.

 

The lecture was well-received by the audience, who appreciated the insights shared by Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr. On behalf of the Ijaw Youth Council, he pledged a support of N500,000 for the book launch. He was accompanied by notable figures including Barr. Jeremia Owoupele JP and Comr. Asikitams Edward.

 

The book launch event featured various activities, including a musical interlude by Soda Presh; a brief talk by Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei on the topic “From Pages to Power, How Books Shape Nations”; presentation of the STAM’s Journey so far by Barr. Queen Bestman; and Book Presentation/STAM’s Literacy Project Boost by Dr. Apere Embelakpo Esq.

 

The event was a blend of insightful discussions and entertaining activities, highlighting the importance of literature and reading in shaping individuals and nations.

 

Other dignitaries present at the event included Hon. Peter Akpe PhD, Chief of Staff Government House; Barr. Tupere Bruno, Chairman of the Occasion; Hon. Target Segibo, Executive Chairman Southern Ijaw; Barr. John Sambo, Director Domestic Affairs Government House; Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, Secretary to the State Government Bayelsa State; Dr. Apere Embelakpo Esq, DG Bayelsa Microfinance & Enterprise Development Agency; Barr. Queen Bestman; and amongst others.

 

~𝑷𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑫𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝑰𝒈𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒖, 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑹𝑽 𝑵𝒆𝒘𝒔