“Bayelsa’s Media Industry Needs A Revolution!” — Ebi Ozegbe Emerges BIPA Chairman, Vows To Transform Association And Restore Its Media Influence
By Passman Akpos
YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE — Publisher of The Light Newspaper, Mr. Ebi Andy Ozegbe, has emerged as the new Chairman of the Bayelsa Indigenous Publishers Association (BIPA), pledging to reposition the association, improve members’ welfare and restore its prominence in the state’s media landscape.
Ozegbe was elected at an election held at the conference room of Niger Delta Herald Newspaper in Ekeki, Yenagoa, following the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past executive led by Dr. Francis Dufugha, publisher of Niger Delta Herald.
The election also produced other members of the new executive committee, who will be responsible for steering the affairs of the association during the new tenure.
Speaking after his swearing-in ceremony, Ozegbe expressed gratitude to members for the confidence reposed in him, promising to justify their trust through purposeful leadership and reforms aimed at strengthening the association.
The new chairman, who previously served in the same capacity, acknowledged the need for a comprehensive repositioning of BIPA, describing its current state as one that requires urgent attention and renewed commitment from members.
He said his administration would introduce initiatives to align the association with contemporary developments in the media industry, particularly the growing influence of digital journalism and social media platforms.
According to him, indigenous newspaper publishers in Bayelsa State must adapt to changing media realities to remain competitive, relevant and financially sustainable.
Ozegbe stressed that his administration would encourage all member-publishers to embrace online publishing and social media platforms to expand their audience reach, improve visibility and strengthen their presence in the increasingly competitive digital media space.
He also promised to prioritise the welfare and professional interests of members, insisting that indigenous publishers deserved greater recognition and consideration in the affairs of Bayelsa State.
Beyond members’ interests, Ozegbe said BIPA must strengthen its role in contributing to societal development through responsible journalism, public enlightenment and constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders.
He expressed confidence that his experience and leadership capacity would help transform the association into a stronger, more vibrant and respected professional body with greater relevance in Bayelsa State and across Nigeria.
The new chairman called on members to support his administration, emphasising that unity, cooperation and collective commitment would be critical to achieving its objectives.
He urged publishers to work together to overcome existing challenges and position BIPA to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the media industry.
Dufugha Congratulates New Executive
Earlier, the immediate past chairman, Dr. Francis Dufugha, thanked members for their support and cooperation throughout his administration.
Dufugha congratulated Ozegbe and other newly elected officers, wishing them a successful tenure while urging members to sustain the spirit of unity and collaboration for the continued growth and development of the association.
Full List Of Newly Elected BIPA Officers
The election produced the following officers:
- Chairman: Mr. Ebi Andy Ozegbe — The Light Newspaper
- Vice Chairman: Mr. Ereku Bomolagbon — The Atlantic Express Newspaper
- Secretary: Mr. Sheriff Hussain — Dialogue Newspaper
- Treasurer: Mr. Tamadu Eze — National Concept Newspaper
- Publicity Secretary: Mr. Victor Christopher — Niger Delta Society Magazine
With the new executive now in place, attention is expected to focus on Ozegbe’s proposed reforms, particularly digital transformation, improved members’ welfare and the restoration of BIPA’s influence in Bayelsa State’s media industry.
The success of the new administration will depend on its ability to translate these promises into practical programmes that strengthen indigenous publishing, promote professional standards and secure a stronger voice for local publishers in the state.
