Veteran Journalist, Kate Sam-Ngbor Honoured With Chieftaincy Title in Ogoniland

Seasoned Journalist, astute communicator, social activist and women’s rights advocate, Kate Sam-Ngbor has been honoured with the chieftaincy title of Mene Birabekee Neewa I of Kpite-Tai in Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The Gbenemene of Tai Kingdom and Paramount Ruler of Kpite-in-Council, His Royal Majesty (Sir) King Samuel Nnee, JP, who performed the investiture on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 in his palace in Kpite, disclosed that her new title means “Chief of Women in Politics 1 of Tai Kingdom”.

He explained that she was recognised for her immense contributions to the promotion of Kpite and Tai culture and tradition, as well as her mental beneficence through quality show of commitment to the development of Kpite Community in Tai LGA, and Rivers State, at large.

Chief Kate Sam-Ngbor was Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Rivers State Chapter between 1998 and 2001, and Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Rivers State Council from 2002 to 2005, respectively.

According to the King, the throne considered her worthy and most suitable for the honorary chieftaincy title of Mene Birabekee Neewa 1 of Kpite-Tai, from a Paramount Ruler of ancient crowns from medieval times and one of the natural crowns in Ogoniland.

“We have the hope in God coupled with your progressive like-mind to complement the throne in promoting her vision and mission statements.”

“We acknowledge your merit and pray to benefit more from your mental assets towards the development of the growing land of Kpite Tai.”

By this conferment, she becomes a full member of the Kpite Grand Council of Chiefs and Elders, with all rights and privileges due to members.

In her response, Chief Kate Sam-Ngbor expressed gratitude for the honour, saying “I’m humbled and overwhelmed! People still see the value in my dedication to humanity and hard work in our community”.

“Today, I was honored with the chieftaincy title of ‘BIRABEKE NEEWA 1 OF KPITE-TAI’. I’m now Chief (Mrs) Kate Sam-Ngbor! All glory to God!”