Diri, PANDEF Chair, Royal Fathers, Others Grace Launch of Dr. Tarila-Nikade’s 12th Book in Bayelsa

[Abigail pereowei]

It was a gathering of high-profile personalities on Sunday, September 21, 2025, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, as Dr. Ebideinyefa Tarila-Nikade officially launched her 12th book, When Tomorrow Beckons. The event, attended by over 100 distinguished guests, celebrated not only the author’s literary accomplishment but also her sustained commitment to preserving Ijaw culture and values through writing.

The launch drew dignitaries from across the country, led by the wife of the Governor of Bayelsa State, Justice Patience Diri, who officially unveiled the book. The occasion was chaired by Ambassador Bolade Godknows Igali, Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).

Also present were His Royal Majesty, King Seiyefa Koroye, Pere of Tarakiri Kingdom; chairmen of local government councils; members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly; the former Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tonye Isenah; and the Secretary to the State Government, represented by Dr. Eli Augustus.

The literary community was also well represented. Professor Solomon Ebobrah delivered the official review of the book, describing When Tomorrow Beckons as “a cultural archive and a powerful piece of literature.” In addition, poet Rowland Ofiyou presented a moving recital that added artistic depth to the evening’s proceedings.

Justice Patience Diri, in her goodwill message, praised Dr. Tarila-Nikade for her consistency in producing works that blend education with cultural preservation. In a lighthearted moment that drew laughter from the audience, she urged everyone to support the author, warning jokingly that “anyone who takes the book without supporting her will be sent to Okaka Prison.”

Ambassador Igali, in his remarks, described the author’s effort as “a cultural responsibility,” urging more Nigerians to document indigenous stories for posterity. Similarly, King Seiyefa Koroye applauded the work, noting that it would serve as an inspiration to the younger generation in Bayelsa and beyond.

A fundraising session, coordinated by Barrister Somina, provided one of the liveliest moments of the evening as he humorously engaged dignitaries and guests to pledge support for the author’s literary mission and her ongoing Bayelsa State Spelling Bees Competition.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Tarila-Nikade expressed gratitude to the guests for honoring her invitation, singling out her husband, Dr. Tarila-Nikade, for special appreciation. She described him as “the backbone” of her academic and literary journey, acknowledging his constant support throughout her writing career.

The launch of When Tomorrow Beckons reinforced Dr. Tarila-Nikade’s standing as one of Bayelsa’s most consistent literary voices, using her pen as a tool to promote the stories, values, and heritage of the Ijaw people

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