News

ANSEC APPROVES TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR THE POOR, DEVOLUTION OF MORE POWERS TO LGS AND AWARDS CONTRACT FOR THE REHABILITATION OF VANDALISED INJECTION SUB-STATION AT CHUKWUEMEKA ODUMEGWU OJUKWU UNIVERSITY, IGBARIAM CAMPUS

The 35th Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) meeting observed a prayer for the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who represented Anambra South at the 10th National Assembly, to rest in peace. Governor Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, recalled how he led the Government delegation to the burial at Nnewi, and how the senator’s passing was a major loss that served as a reminder of our mortality.

The Council encouraged investors to take over the management of public enterprises (PEs) in the state by restating that leasing and concessioning PEs are better alternatives to the Government managing them directly.

The Council restated that the Anti-touting Law of Anambra State remains in force and strongly advised touts to join the Soludo administration’s empowerment schemes for legitimate livelihoods. The Council also approved tax exemptions in Anambra State for groups whose business capitals are less than N100,000 and devolution of more powers to the local governments in the state in area of sanitation.

The Council has approved a memo presented by the Commissioner for Water Resources and Power, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka, for the rehabilitation of the vandalised injection substation at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam Campus. The contract was awarded to Kolc Ventures at the sum of N228,147,634.33.

The contract for the provision of free internet access to the Anambra State House of Assembly Complex, Awka, at the sum of N81,872,000.00 was awarded to PINE HEIGHT GLOBAL RESOURCES LTD to be installed within 2 weeks from the date of the contract award.

The one for the construction of 151 open stalls at Afuzo Market, Isuofia, to boost local commerce and support economic growth was awarded to Crystal Dove Construction Company at the sum of N279,072,710.75.

Allpee International Ltd won the contract for the road-marking of the Amawbia flyover motorway with a spur through Ezeuzu Junction to ICC, along Amansea Old Road at the sum of N118,716,874.41. It will be delivered in 6 weeks.

The health sector got a boost as the ANSEC approved a memo for the supply and installation of new medical and non-medical hospital equipment at both the specialist hospital, Fegge, and the General Hospital, Anaku, Onitsha South, and Ayamelum LGAs. The contract was awarded to CHRISLAUG LTD.

LOT 1: SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF NEW HOSPITAL MEDICAL AND NON-MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AT THE SPECIALIST HOSPITAL, FEGGE, at the sum of N367,560,500.00. It will be supplied 3 months after the mobilisation fee.

LOT 2: SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF NEW HOSPITAL MEDICAL AND NON-MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AT THE GENERAL HOSPITAL ANAKU at the sum of N285,473,000.00. It will be supplied 3 months after the mobilisation fee.

The ANSEC also approved the memo for the supply and installation of Solar Street Lights within the Awka Metropolos Lot 1, Lot 2, and Lot 3.

LOT 1: SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF 544 NR SOLAR STREET LIGHTS

VIGEO-DOME LTD

N460,732,148.31

3 months delivery post mobilization fee.

II: SUPPLY and INSTALLATIONS OF 346 Nr SOLAR STREET LIGHTS.

FRANKTORCH NIG LTD

N385,605,574.49

2 months delivery post mobilization fee.

111: SUPPLY and INSTALLATIONS OF 240 Nr SOLAR STREET LIGHTS.

HONEYDOVE INTEGRATED

N163,800,279.72

2 months delivery post mobilization fee

The contract for the production and installation of 500 pieces of fluorescent “Solution Is Here” concrete signage for the branding of all landmark infrastructures across the state was awarded to Conifer Konstruction Nig Ltd at the sum of N200,000,013.51

Signed

Law Mefor, PhD

Commissioner for Information

November 25, 2024.

ANAMBRA TO SET UP BENTONITE PROCESSING FACTORY IN NTEJE

By Adaobi Nsofor :

Anambra State Government is set to establish a Bentonite Processing Factory, leveraging the area’s vast Bentonite deposits to empower citizens through industrialization and wealth creation.

Prof. Charles O. Ofoegbu, Managing Director/CEO of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited (ANSSMDCL), led an inspection visit to the donated land for the factory in Achalla-agu, Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area, accompanied by agency officials and community representatives.

The ASSMDCL boss, after the inspection and handover of about 7 hectares of land in Nteje noted that the state government aims to formalise the partnership with the Nteje community to harness the area’s vast Bentonite deposits for the production of oil and water based Bentonite needed in Petroleum and water drilling.

Prof. Ofoegbu stated that the project will lead to industrialization and overall development of the Community which has already received the approval of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, and work on the project is expected to take off in January, 2025.

The President General of the Community, Dr Nnamdi Iloduba thanked the delegations and expressed the readiness of the town to play host to the government when the work kicks off.

Chairman, Achalla-agu Nteje, Mr Igwebuike Nwoye and Chairman, Oji Ani Nteje, Chief Francis Uchendu in their separate interviews, expressed their excitement and commended the state governor for bringing such a huge project to their community.

They were hopeful that the project would bring about massive development and industrialization to their community, while reducing unemployment and criminalities among the youths. They further assured the workers that would be working at the factory and officials of the government of their safety.

Nsofor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA FIRE SERVICE SENSITIZES TRADERS ON FIRE PREVENTION

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The Director, Anambra State Fire Service Mr Chiketa Chukwudi Emmanuel has sensitized the traders of Old Motor Car Parts Dealers Association, Mgbuka Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State on the tips to control and prevent fire outbreak in homes and shops.

He emphasized the importance of fire safety, noting that while fire is essential for cooking and other vital purposes, it can be devastating if not controlled. He explained that the fire service regularly visits markets, banks, schools, and companies to educate the public on fire safety and prevention.

Speaking shortly after the market weekly prayer at the market, Chiketa cautioned traders to exercise extra caution during the upcoming festive season to prevent fire outbreaks. He shared valuable tips, emphasizing the importance of switching off electrical appliances such as fans and air conditioners in homes and shops before leaving. He stressed that prevention is better than cure, particularly during the harmattan and Christmas seasons.

Chiketa also disclosed that the state House of Assembly has recently mandated every building to have overhead tank and fire extinguisher to avoid fire outbreak.

The Chairman of the market, Chief Samuel Ifurunwa appreciated Governor Charles Soludo for his tremendous efforts and developmental strides in the state, advising the traders to adhere to all the teachings and instructions learnt.

Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ONITSHA NORTH LGA SECRETARIAT REGAINS ELECTRICITY AFTER 15 YEARS

By Uche Azuka and Anthonia Amaechina :

In a significant development, the Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Mr. Tony Nworah, has successfully restored electricity to the council’s secretariat after over 15 years of darkness. The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) reconnected power to the premises, marking a major milestone for the local government.

According to the Mayor, the move is expected to greatly improve working conditions for staff housed by the council, including local, state, and federal government employees.

He noted that he is committed to provide a conducive environment for public servants.

Azuka and Amaechina are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA COMMENCES NEW MINIMUM WAGE PAYMENT IN OCTOBER – MEFOR

By Uzo Ugwunze :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor has described Governor Chukwuma Soludo as labour friendly for being among the first set of governors to implement payment of the New Minimum wage since October 2024.

According to a press release made available to newsmen Wednesday by the State Spokesperson, “the attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to some media reports that have excluded Anambra State from the states in Nigeria that have paid the new minimum wage of N70,000. Some media outlets merely managed to capture Anambra State only among the states whose governors have indicated interest in paying the new minimum wage.

“To put the record straight, the promise by the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo to pay the new minimum wage was made good since the month of October, when the new minimum wage payment commenced in Anambra State with the payment of October salaries.

“To add to it, the state has also adjusted pensions upward to give pensioners in Anambra State higher take-home. Professor Chukwuma Soludo remains a labour-friendly governor as the workers in Anambra State have not only received the new minimum wage but also continue to receive salary alerts on or before the 25th of every month.”

Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

CWO AMAWBIA DEANERY 2024 TRIENNIAL CONVENTION: ANAMBRA WOMEN AFFAIRS COMMISSIONER LAUDS SOLUDO’S ACHIEVEMENTS, URGES WOMEN TO PRIORITIZE TRAINING THEIR CHILDREN

By Regina Igwebuike :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Child and Women Affairs, Mrs. Ify Obinabor, has praised Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for his remarkable achievements in just two years and eight months. She highlighted his development strides, impactful initiatives, and commitment to children, women, and the oppressed.

Commissioner Obinabor emphasized the importance of wise voting during elections and encouraged women to prioritize training their children. She also advised against pressuring husbands and children, promoting farming with organic fertilizers, and listening to the Governor’s wife, Nonye Soludo, on healthy living.

She said this at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Amawbia during the Catholic Women Organization (CWO), Amawbia Deanery 2024 Triennial Convention and Fund Raising for the completion of her Stella Maris Skill Acquisition Centre on Nov. 23.

Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, praised women’s vital roles in the family, church, and society. He expressed his commitment to supporting women, driven by his affection for mothers. Through his representative, Lady Oge Okoye, Sen. Umeh shared his efforts to provide scholarships to deserving individuals, aiming to bring joy to their lives, urging them to live out their apostolate.

The Director, CWO Awka Diocese, Lady Sabina Ndigwe, expressed her amazement at the impressive turnout of members. She highlighted two key aspects of the event: embracing motherhood as a sacred vocation and fundraising.

Lady Ndigwe praised the exceptional teaching and personal examples exhibited during the event, which she described as unparalleled in her time with CWO. She commended a woman who demonstrated remarkable virtues, encouraging all members to emulate her example.

The Director also thanked the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Pius Okoye, for recognizing and rewarding the woman’s virtues. Additionally, Lady Ndigwe promised to present the woman with a CWO uniform, aiming to inspire others to demonstrate kindness and generosity.

Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Nwankiti, Chaplain of CWO Amawbia Deanery, warmly welcomed all attendees, particularly the invited guests. He acknowledged the disproportionate impact of the economic challenges on women, offering prayers for peace, progress, and unity as they fulfill their roles as mothers.

Mazi Peter Chukwuemeka Nwafor, the Chairman of the occasion, emphasized the vital role women play in society, stating that without them, there would be no family, church, or community. He appealed to the clergy and others to support women, recognizing their invaluable contributions.

Nwafor also acknowledged Nigeria’s paradoxical situation, where the country suffers despite its abundant resources. He attributed this to poor leadership, which has led to youth restiveness. To address this, he advocated for the implementation of skill acquisition programs, which would engage youths meaningfully, urging the executive to invest the realized funds into this project, promoting a more prosperous future for Nigeria.

Earlier in his homily, Rev. Fr. Daniel Eduzor, Rector St. John Bosco Seminary, Isuaniocha, acknowledged the challenges of motherhood, encouraging mothers to cultivate a consistent and persistent relationship with God. He urged them to diligently fulfill their duties as true Christian mothers, relying on their faith to guide them.

In her welcome address, Lady Rose Nwokolo, Organizer of CWO Amawbia Deanery, expressed gratitude to God for His love and mercy, which enabled them to participate in the triennial event. She reminded mothers of their vital roles as home builders and the foundation of a strong family.

Lady Nwokolo appealed to attendees to donate generously, either in cash or kind, to support the completion of the Stella Maris Skill Acquisition Centre. This initiative aims to provide employment and training opportunities for the deanery’s youths, empowering them to achieve self-actualization and dignity.

She extended her appreciation to those who had already donated and commended the Deanery Chaplain, Emerita Organizers, and her executive for their unwavering support and guidance.

Mrs. Chinyere Obunabo, Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to God and Mother Mary for the event’s success. She thanked all attendees, especially the Deputy Speaker, Commissioner for Child and Women Affairs as well as the Awardees for gracing the occasion, wishing all journey mercies back to their destinations.

The event featured installation of Awardees, march pass, unveiling of Our Lady Statue and Convention Cake, lightening of candles, Deanery Royal family and Queen Competitions.

*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT MOVES TO BOOST FOOD PRODUCTION THROUGH 60,000 ORGANIC FERTILIZERS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government is set to commence the distribution of 60,000 organic fertilizers to over 20,000 farmers across the state

This was the outcome of a One-day stakeholders meeting organised by the Ministry of Agriculture at its Conference Hall.

The meeting brought together group of stakeholders including Heads of Department of Agriculture, Supervisors of Agriculture and Leaders of Congress of councillors drawn from the 21 Local Government Areas.

At the event, the State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, told the meeting that the federal government in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria had donated 9,000 bags of inorganic fertilizers to the state.

He, however, added that since the state government had adopted Regenerative Agriculture as a policy in tandem with its commitment to ensuring the heathy well being of the citizens,the inorganic fertilizers were sold to rice farmers.

“We agreed that the inorganic fertilizers should be given to rice farmers at a nominal price and the money realised from that nominal sale to those farmers will be channelled toward procurement of organic fertilizers or biological enhancers that will be in sync with the agricultural policy of the state”

The Commissioner said it was reassuring and pleasing that the state government recognised the huge benefits of the policy, urging Councillors to ensure successful implementation of the exercise targeted to provide support to farming households in the state.

He noted that when one knew what to consume and the right agricultural practices, it would help in knowing the nutrition value of what is eaten.

“We are here to discuss how to produce food and make it truly abundant, how to produce food that is indeed food not the one that will appear as food but be poison to our system.”

He, then ,used the opportunity to call for the establishment of a Bio- Technical Laboratory in the state to test and analyse health condition of plants and animals in line with global best practices.

In a remark, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka, underscored the importance of proper documentation and profiling of beneficiaries using approved template for accountability and transparency purposes.

She urged that the items be distributed fairly to youths, men and women farmers in all the wards, adding that details about application of the fertilizers on crops would be transmitted to them by extension workers.

Some of the stakeholders including Mr Uzoma Aligwekwe, Ugochi Ehiahuruike, Hon Chimaobi Okereke and Joseph Okonkwo contributed and expressed their concerns which the Commissioner addressed accordingly.

In a vote of thanks, Hon Nwabueze McHenry Chukwuebuka, Leader Ihiala Local Government Congress of Councillors, lauded government for extending the gesture to the farmers, assuring that the items would be distributed judiciously.

Present at the event were Mr Jude Nwankwo, Programme Manager, Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Mr Chukwuma Abana, SSA to the Governor on Strategy.

*Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA SHOWCASES INNOVATIVE POTENTIALS

Michael Ezenwata :

Anambra State has flagged off its innovative technological and entrepreneurial initiative tagged, ‘Anambra Innovative Week 2024’ to showcase to the world, the vast potentials of its technological endowment and prospects for the future.

The four- day event the first of its kind in the state, and under the inspiration of governor Chukwuma Soludo; was flagged at the International Convention Centre Awka.

The governor represented by his deputy Dr.Onyekachukwu Ibezim, spoke of the vision of the governor which anchors on the technological transformation of the state.

According to him, the state has already keyed into the global trend of industrialization and is poised to move to the next level of harnessing its rich technological potentials for export.

The deputy governor highlighted the prospects of the 1 youth 2 skills programme initiative of the governor which have propelled the beneficiaries to higher levels of skills acquisition.

He urged the participants including other interested partners to key into the innovative programme that the 4- day event will bring to enhance their proficiency in their respective careers and the technological growth of the state.

In a welcome address, the Special Adviser to the governor on Innovation and Business Incubation Mrs. Chinwe Okoli stressed that the aim of the 4- day innovation week is to celebrate innovation in the state and to leverage on the gains of technology to move the state to the next level.

According to Mrs.Okoli, the governor is committed towards building a technological based economy with digitalized full operations in all sectors of the state economy.

She further noted that the state through the programme is laying a solid foundation for its technological advancement.

During the opening ceremony, a resource person residing in California United States of America, Mr. Emeka Afigbo spoke of the global trend anchored on the advancement inherent in the use of artificial intelligence in achieving some technological goals.

Mr. Afigbo showed a video clip of an automated self driven talking car which took his family to their destination.

The ICT sector in the state was also represented as its head Mr. Fred Agbata spoke of the gains inherent in the use of artificial intelligence.

ANAMBRA POLICE ARREST NATIVE DOCTOR, ONE OTHER OVER ALLEGED ROBBERY, KIDNAPPING, RECOVER GUN, OTHERS

By Uche Kalu :

Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have arrested a native doctor and his accomplice over suspected armed robbery and kidnapping in Uru, Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area of the state.

A statement made available to newsmen by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), of the command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga revealed the names of the arrested suspects as Mr. Maduabuchukwu Ikechukwu Okafor (age 30 years), and Mr. Nweze Chijindu (aged 38 years) all from Abagana.

The PPRO noted that the arrest of the suspects followed the testimony of a rescued kidnap victim on 22/11/2024 by 6 pm near Abagana Girls Secondary School, which prompted the joint security forces, comprising of Police and Anambra Vigilante Operatives to bust a shrine of a native doctor in the area, where the two suspects were arrested while two other accomplices in the crime identified as Supuluchukwu Nweze and Sunday Nwakanze aged 30yrs are presently at large.

He also disclosed that the operatives recovered one Pump Action gun, one vehicle belonging to the rescued kidnap victim, rope, horsewhip, among other incriminating items.

According to him, “Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was lured to the location by a phone call allegedly initiated by Sunday Nwakanze. The victim was abducted at gunpoint, dispossessed of his valuables, and transported to a shrine where he was restrained using ropes and had his mouth sealed.

“The two suspects confessed to the crime and are currently assisting the Police with information for possible arrest of other gang members.