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PRINCESS DR JESSIE UDOKA-MENUBA, MOTHER TERESA OF 21ST CENTURY

By Regina Igwebuike

Princess Dr. Jessie Ifeoma Udoka-Menuba (née Oliobi), Founder/CEO Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation International, has been honored with the prestigious title of “Mother Teresa of the 21st Century” by the Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria, Awka Diocese (CLCNAD) on March 23 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Agulu, Anaocha LGA, Anambra State.

This recognition is a testament to her remarkable contributions in philanthropy and human capital development.

Barr. Michael Okoye, Coordinator Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l, highlighted the significance of the award given to Princess Dr. Jessie Udoka-Menuba as the “Mother Teresa of the 21st Century”. He noted that this recognition came at a time when women worldwide are being acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to nation-building.

He expressed gratitude to the Church, specifically the Laity Council, for their observant role in recognizing Princess Udoka-Menuba’s philanthropic efforts.

Barr. Okoye believed that this award will inspire Princess Udoka-Menuba to continue and expand her humanitarian work, reaching out to more downtrodden individuals as well as influence others to emulate her exemplary deeds, fostering a positive impact on society.

“This Award celebrates the well-deserved recognition of Princess Udoka-Menuba’s selfless work and its potential to inspire a ripple effect of kindness and compassion,” he noted.

Hon. Sir Joseph Igwebuike, President CLCNAD, highlighted Princess Udoka-Menuba’s remarkable character and selfless dedication to serving the poorest. By comparing her to Mother Teresa, he emphasized her exceptional qualities, such as humility, resilience, compassion, faith, and commitment to social justice.

Mother Teresa’s legacy is renowned for her tireless efforts to care for the marginalized and vulnerable. As the founder of the Missionaries of Charity, she dedicated her life to serving the “poorest of the poor” and inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps.

“I’ve attended three of Princess’ numerous activities and observed that she is a woman who believed that life not lived for others is not life, thus her motto: It is good to be good.

According to Sir Igwebuike, By awarding Princess Udoka-Menuba the title of “Mother Teresa of the 21st Century,” the CLCNAD recognizes her unwavering commitment to humanitarian work and her ability to inspire others through her words and actions. This honor is a testament to her remarkable character and her dedication to creating a positive impact in the lives of others.

Nze Mike Nnamah, a Knight of St. Mulumba, expressed his delight with the event and congratulated the award recipient Princess Udoka-Menuba, acknowledging her well-deserved recognition. He highlighted her exceptional philanthropic efforts, which have positively impacted both the privileged and underprivileged.

Nze Nnamah wished her continued success in all her endeavors, enabling her to sustain her admirable work and receive further recognitions, all through the blessings of Christ.

Hon. Mrs. Gladys Edi was overjoyed about the award given to Princess Dr. Jessie Udoka-Menuba, and rightly so. According to her, the Princess deserves the recognition because of her exceptional kindness and generosity, particularly towards the Amawbia people, whom she considers a “big wife” to.

The Princess’s philanthropic efforts have also had a significant impact on the less privileged, not just in Amawbia and Anambra State, but also in other states. Mrs. Edi’s heartfelt prayer for the Princess, asking God to grant her long life and prosperity, was a beautiful gesture that reflected her genuine admiration for the Princess’s selfless work.

Nze Edozie Akpunonu expressed his joy over the award bestowed upon Princess Udoka-Menuba. He offered a humble suggestion, encouraging her to occasionally make physical appearances, as her events are typically in-person.

He offered a heartfelt prayer, asking God to bless the Princess and grant her heart’s desires in Jesus’ name.

Nze Emeka Onuorah congratulated Princess Dr. Jessie Udoka-Menuba on her well-deserved award, praising her exceptional character and kindness. He wished her all the best in life, acknowledging her positive impact on those around her.

*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

ANAMBRA STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL REASSURES ON ROLE OF AGUNECHEMBA SECURITY OUTFIT

By Chinelo Okeke

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Anambra State, Prof. Sylvia Ifemeje has emphasised that the state-owned security outfit, Agunechemba is designed to complement the efforts of the police and other security agencies and not to replace them.

Speaking at a town hall meeting held at Hilton Hotel, Awka on human rights, police accountability, and justice administration, Prof. Ifemeje highlighted the rationale behind the establishment of Agunechemba, a state-owned security outfit. According to Prof. Ifemeje, Agunechemba was created in response to the escalating security concerns in Anambra State. This initiative is part of the state’s efforts to enhance security and public safety, as mandated by the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025.

The meeting, organized by the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) with support from the European Union-funded RoLAC 2 programme, provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss critical issues related to security, justice, and human rights in Anambra State.

Prof. Ifemeje highlighted that the new law aims to combat emerging criminal activities that threaten state security. The current criminal code, she noted, didn’t anticipate these issues.

According to her, key provisions of the Law included; Section 3 which establishes the Agunechemba Security outfit, operating at town, local government, and state levels, with the state as central command. She stressed that all security personnel under this law must undergo thorough scrutiny and identification by their traditional ruler, president general, local representative, and market association chairman.

Prof. Ifemeje highlighted that Section 4 of the law outlined the functions of Agunechemba to include; Crime detection and Prevention, preservation of law and order, protection of lives and properties; to arrest criminals and hand them over to police for investigations, give further assistance to the police

“Section 5: This section mandates Agunechemba Security outfit to: arrest and hand over offenders to the police, patrol streets and maintain security barricades, identify and hand over individuals of questionable character; conduct searches in suspicious premises, form special squads to tackle;

kidnapping, banditry, illicit drug consumption, cultism, robbery and other violent crimes.

The commissioner outlined the structure of the security supervisory committee at the state level, comprising: the governor or representative, commissioner in charge of Homeland Security, Special Adviser to the governor on Security; representatives from the Nigerian Police Force, DSS, and civil defence, chairman of the house of Assembly Committee on Security, chairman of the council of traditional rulers, Secretary or Legal Adviser from the Ministry of Justice, Mayors of local governments and other members appointed by the governor

“At the local government level, the supervisory committee consists of: Mayors of local governments, president generals, security commanders of communities; leader of the congress of councillors, DPOs, secretary appointed by the state Agunechemba supervisory committee. The supervisory committee’s role is to ensure proper coordination of the security outfit at the local government level.

“Section 10, establishes a body known as town security management and finance committee which include traditional ruler who is the patron,PGs, stake holders in the community of integrity with expertise in security and financial capacity to support the outfit, DPOs, and a Chairman to be selected by members whose function include, coordination of the outfit at the town levels, ensuring proper compliance with code of conduct of members welfare and appointment of the security commanders of Agunechemba unit and raising of fund for the unit

“Section 11,the operation committee include,PG as chairman, security commander as a member, DPOs and others appointed by members of management and finance committee and it is expected of all PGs to be submitting report every week of the month of their activities.while section 13,states that failure of PGs to submit report shall have his certificate of recognition withdrawn.

“Section 14,places a duty on proprietor of hotels to obtain from tenant a valid means of identification, with phone numbers and occupation,placing of CCTV cameras to monitor activities in there and non compliance to this is punishable and might lead to shutting down of the hotel by Commissioner for Tourism.while section 15 warns that any building or forest where kidnapping activities are going on shall be forfeited to the state government.

” Section 16 warns against the manufacture and sale of illicit drugs and any building used for that shall be forfeited, section 18 warns against okite and Ezenwanyi for any who indulges in that shall be convicted to six years imprisonment with an option of N20million, section 18 (2) prohibits dumping of sacrifice on the road which is also punishable upon violation 6 years imprisonment or a fine of N20million while Section 18 (3),any person who deceives people that he possesses such supernatural power is liable to punishment, 6 years imprisonment or option of N20million fine or both if convicted.

“Sections 19 and 20 of the law outline severe penalties for specific offenses. Section 19 prohibits the use of religious places for committing crimes, with convicted offenders facing 6 years imprisonment, a N20 million fine, or both. Additionally, the religious place may be sealed. Section 20 specifically addresses the use of human parts for ritual purposes, carrying a stringent penalty of 25 years imprisonment without the option of a fine.

The event featured the traditional ruler of Nawfia, Igwe Eze Udo, representatives of the traditional ruler of Awka, Obi Gibson Nwosu, representatives of the police,civil defence, Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor; National human rights representative, Ikechukwu Chude (Esq), Ambassador Uche Ajulu Okeke, Secretary General Anambra State traditional rulers forum and Josephine Onah of International Idea

* Okeke is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA, ENUGU POLICE LAUNCH JOINT BORDER PATROL TO COMBAT CRIME

By Uche Kalu

Anambra and Enugu State Police Commands have joined forces to launch a joint interstate border patrol operation, aiming to curb the rising tide of criminal activities in the region. This collaborative effort comes in response to a surge in kidnappings and armed violence, often involving perpetrators who operate across state lines.

The decision to launch the joint operation was made during a meeting between the two state commissioners at the Anambra Police Command in Awka. Deputy and Assistant Police Commissioners from both states attended the meeting, which focused on devising strategies to tackle the growing security concerns.

The gathering resulted in far-reaching plans to strengthen security operations at major flashpoints in the area.

According to SP Tochukwu Ikenga, spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, the meeting aligns with the Inspector-General of Police’s enhanced policing guidelines. He noted that the meeting brought together CP Ikioye Orutugu of Anambra and CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa of Enugu to develop operational strategies tackling security challenges in both states. This collaborative effort aims to proactively address rising concerns and ensure a safer environment for residents and visitors alike.

Ikenga revealed that the commissioners identified the cross-border movement of criminals as a pressing security concern. This issue, they agreed, requires swift and decisive action to combat violent crimes and subversive activities. To address this challenge, the commissioners pledged to foster a collaborative approach, sharing vital intelligence and pooling their operational resources. This joint effort aims to effectively tackle violent crime at the borders and within their respective states.

Ikenga further said that the commissioners have reaffirmed their dedication to combating all forms of crime and criminality in their respective states. Their ultimate goal is to ensure the highest level of public security and safety. Additionally, they issued a stern warning to criminals operating in the region, urging them to either renounce their criminal activities or face the full consequences of the law .

* Kalu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA ICT BOSS, AGBATA RECEIVES COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD, ATTRIBUTES IT TO GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S VISION, LEADERSHIP TOO

By Regina Igwebuike

The Anambra State Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Boss, Hon. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, says Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for Anambra State is to build a liveable, prosperous, and smart mega city. To achieve this, he is focusing on key components like infrastructure development, improved security, human capital development, and technology integration.

Agbata said this in a press interview shortly after receiving a Community Service Award from Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria Awka Diocese on March 23 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Agulu, Anaocha LGA, Anambra State.

Speaking on infrastructure, he said, “Governor Soludo is tackling roads and other critical projects head-on. He’s also improving security, which has been a major concern in the region.

“For human capital development, the governor is boosting free education and healthcare initiatives. This is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of Anambra State residents.”

According to him, Technology integration is another crucial aspect of Governor Soludo’s plan. He’s supported the ICT agency in providing free right of way, which has enabled telecom providers to offer various services in Anambra State. As a result, connectivity and broadband access have improved significantly, allowing people to access high-speed internet from their homes. This, in turn, is driving business growth in the region.

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, MD of ICT in Anambra State, acknowledged Governor Soludo’s vision and leadership, saying that his appointment to lead the ICT agency was a catalyst for the progress they have recorded so far. He also dedicated an award he received to Governor Soludo, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

Regarding the issue of free data, Agbata clarified that while Governor Soludo promised to make high-speed internet available, the free data provided in public places has time limits due to limited resources. Nevertheless, the initiative is working, and internet access is now available across Anambra State.

*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

2025 LAITY WEEK FLAG OFF: EZEOKAFOR PREACHES REPENTANCE, PRAYER AND FOLLOWING CATHOLIC TRADITIONS…AS SOLUDO, EZEOKENWA, OTHERS RECEIVE LAITY AWARDS

By Regina Igwebuike

The Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria Awka Diocese (CLCNAD), has flagged off 2025 Laity Week with the theme: “Upholding And Promoting The Liturgy Among Catholics” at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Agulu, Anaocha LGA, Anambra State on March 23.

Delivering a homily during the Concelebrated Mass ,Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese emphasized the importance of repentance, prayer, and adhering to Catholic traditions. He cautioned Christians against taking God’s mercy for granted, highlighting that God is not only merciful but also just and jealous.

Bishop Ezeokafor praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s infrastructure development efforts and his stance against fake dibias and ezenwanyi. He also urged the governor to extend his efforts to root out fake pastors, priests, and prophets who hide under the church.

This call to action is particularly relevant given the current theme, which emphasizes the need to stay true to Catholic traditions. Bishop Ezeokafor’s message serves as a reminder to Christians to remain faithful and vigilant in their spiritual journey.

He urged the governor to create programs that assist with critical ailments, which can be extremely costly to treat, running into millions. This would greatly alleviate the financial burden on individuals and families affected by these ailments.

In addition to healthcare reforms, the bishop also pushed for free education to be extended to public private schools. His argument is rooted in fairness and equality, emphasizing that what’s good for one group should be good for another, highlighting the importance of equal access to quality education for all, regardless of the type of school they attend.

Governor Soludo, expressed his gratitude to Bishop Ezeokafor for his exceptional leadership, mentorship, guidance, and support. The governor praised Bishop Ezeokafor as a “one-man inspection team” who writes reports and sends them to him, demonstrating his commitment to accountability and transparency.

During his speech, Governor Soludo emphasized the importance of compassion, empathy, and love for others. He urged everyone to go back to the basics of corporal works of mercy, stressing that these values are essential for building a better society.

The governor also highlighted his administration’s achievements, including transforming Awka North’s roads and turning Okpoko slum into a “new heaven” with necessary infrastructure. He attributed these successes to “extraordinary prudence” in managing the state’s resources, ensuring that every kobo is accounted for and deployed to serve the people.

In the area of healthcare, Governor Soludo endorsed his wife’s healthy living movement, emphasizing the importance of “eating clean and exercising dirty” to maintain healthy organs. He also advocated for the Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIA) to provide affordable medical care and announced the construction of the biggest trauma center in Nigeria at COOUTH, Awka.

On free education for public private schools, the governor emphasized that he is doing everything to subsidize mission schools, noting that on inception into office, he recruited teachers and sent over 3,000 new teachers to mission schools and government pays them to subsidize it, explaining that only the proprietor can declare free education and not government to avoid interference.

The governor declared war against the Okeite and Ezenwanyi practices, which he described as heinous crimes. He emphasized the need for a clean and healthy Anambra, urging everyone to work together to restore the state.

On the Laity Secretariat under construction, the governor promised commitment with his team to support the project.

Rev. Fr. Jude Ezeanokwasa, Chaplain CLCNAD, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, including: Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor, clergy, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, APGA National Chairman, Traditional rulers, Knights of the Church and the Statutory bodies that make up the Laity Council.

His welcome set the tone for a spirit-filled gathering, acknowledging the diverse group of individuals united in their faith and commitment to the Laity Council.

Earlier, Hon. Sir Joseph Igwebuike, President CLCNAD, expressed his gratitude to the Bishop for attending the significant event and welcomed all attendees. He highlighted the importance of Laity week; a period when the Laity Council, comprising non-clergy and non-religious individuals, converge to discuss progress and ways to support the church.

Igwebuike also commended Governor Soludo for his notable achievements, particularly in road infrastructure development. However, he appealed to the governor for assistance in completing the Laity Council’s secretariat, which has been stalled due to funding constraints. Additionally, the laity president suggested that the governor could request the Ministry of Housing to construct the secretariat and hand over the keys to the Council.

Other Awardees are Engr. Prince Dr. Arthur Eze, Chief Basil Ejidike, Chief Dr. George Muoghalu, Princess Dr. Jessie Ifeoma Udoka-Menuba, Hon. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, Barr. Ugochukwu Ibeneme, Chief Innocent Akubue and Chief Dr. Innocent Akubue.

The event also featured march pass by deaneries and dance by the Holy childhood Association.

*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

FORMER ONITSHA NORTH COUNCILLORS VISIT MAYOR NWORA, PLEDGE SUPPORT FOR HIS ADMINISTRATION

By Chioma Nwankwo, Claribel Udah and Chika Obi

Former Transition Committee Councillors of Onitsha North Local Government Area have paid a courtesy visit to the Mayor, Mr. Nweze Tony Nwora at his office, where they pledged their unwavering support for his administration.

During the meeting, the former councillors commended the Mayor’s commitment to the welfare of residents and the overall development of the council. They expressed their loyalty to his leadership and applauded his efforts in strengthening the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Onitsha North.

Recognizing the Mayor’s strides in expanding the party’s influence, the councillors assured him of their full backing in the forthcoming elections. They acknowledged the significant growth of APGA in the LGA under his leadership and vowed to work closely with him to sustain the party’s progress.

In response, Mayor Nwora expressed gratitude for their visit and support. He highlighted his administration’s proactive measures to combat crime, as well as recent infrastructural improvements, including the repair of major roads within the council area.

“My priority is the progress and development of Onitsha North LGA,” Mayor Nwora stated.

He urged the councillors to remain steadfast in their commitment to APGA, emphasizing that the party continues to deliver democratic dividends to Ndi Anambra under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

Mayor Nwora reaffirmed his dedication to involving past and present leaders in his administration’s initiatives to drive progress in Onitsha North. He also reiterated his support for Governor Soludo’s vision of transforming Anambra State into a livable, clean, and prosperous homeland.

* Nwankwo, Udah and Obi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ONITSHA NORTH MAYOR CELEBRATES COMMISSIONER AGHA MBA ON HIS BIRTHDAY

By Claribel Udah, Chioma Nwankwo and Chika Obi

The Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, has extended warm birthday wishes to Hon. Patrick Agha Mba, the Anambra State Commissioner for Youth Development, lauding his dedication to youth empowerment.

In his congratulatory message, Mayor Nwora praised Commissioner Agha Mba for his relentless efforts in advancing Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of uplifting the youth in Anambra State.

He acknowledged the commissioner’s impactful initiatives, which have significantly improved the lives of young people across the state.

“As you celebrate another year, I wish you continued success, good health, and wisdom to further drive youth development and progress in our state,” Mayor Nwora stated.

The Mayor’s message underscored the vital role of youth-focused policies in the state’s development agenda and reaffirmed his support for initiatives aimed at empowering the younger generation.

* Udah, Nwankwo and Obi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

THE SOLUTION WEEKLY BULLETIN….SPECIAL EDITION

PROF. EMEGOAKOR APPLAUDS SOLUDO’S DEVELOPMENT VISION AT 3

By Michael Ezenwata :

As eminent Nigerians, the international community and well meaning citizens of the state continue to shower encomiums on Governor Chukwuma Soludo on his three years in office,the Managing Director,Eldorado Multi-Specialist Hospital, Nodu Okpuno Prof.Chiemelu Emegoakor has lent his voice confirming that the state is faring well under the governor’a watch.

In a message to the governor on his three years in office,Prof.Emegoakor an Awka zonal NMA 2022 award winner, urged the governor to sustain his efforts which are very visible in the health sector, security of lives and property of the citizenry, among others.

Elaborating on his advances in the health sector,the medical expert expressed delight in the improvement in the primary health care delivery in the state,the building and renovation of general hospitals in the three senatorial zones of the state and the state health insurance scheme which has reduced the mortality rate of the state residents.

The Prof.of Medicine further asked the governor to redouble his efforts towards ensuring that his development vision anchored on building the human and material infrastructure is sustained.

* Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NAWOJ ANAMBRA STATE COUNCIL SHOWERS ACCOLADES ON ANAMBRA WOMEN LEGENDS AND ACHIEVERS

By Michael Ezenwata :

In recognition of the inalienable rights of women in the society and their noteworthy achievements, the Anambra State Council of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists unleashed posthumous awards,living legend awards and awards for women achievers to some Anambra women of note who have distinguished themselves in their respective careers.

The chairman of the occasion and the Acting Vice Chancellor of the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Prof.Kate Omenugha charged women to be resolute in their affairs with a view to making useful contributions in the society.

Prof.Omenugha thanked the state NAWOJ for organizing the event which will serve as a spur to propel women to further greatness.

In a speech,the state Chairman of NUJ, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu urged women to be deliberate in their approach to life and avoid pulling down their fellow women which has remained a canker in the society.

Dr.Odogwu asked women to always work towards carrying their colleagues along in building a better society.

In another speech,the Anambra State Chairperson of NAWOJ, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika spoke of the sacred roles of women in building a better society.

According to Comrade Ifejika, women participation In politics and other critical positions in the society cannot be over emphasized.

She called on the upcoming generation of women to look up to the likes of the late Prof.Dora Akunyili,Prof.Chinyere Okunna and other women achievers in the society to excel.

In her acceptance speech after bagging a living legend award,Prof.Okunna encouraged women to always be alive to their expected roles in the society and catching a niche for themselves.

Prof.Okunna thanked the Ifejika led NAWOJ in the state for being assertive and for recognizing her as a legend.

The Commissioner for Special Duties, Beverly Ikpeazu- Nkemdiche called for women participation and their effective roles in all departments of home making. According to the commissioner, women should be intentional about what they want to excel.

On her part, the Provost Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe, Dr.Justina Anyadiegwu called on women to be active participants in the affairs of governance and nation building.

Dr.Anyadiiegwu thanked her mentor, Dr.Ego Uzoezie for grooming her to stardom and to the NAWOJ for the achievers award given to her.

The provost used the forum to felicitate with Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his eventful 3 years in office.

Also in her speech, the member representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Prof.Oby Orogbu called on women to be assertive in pursuing their cause and never to shy away from their responsibilities.

Some other women who spoke at the forum included Chief Mrs.Flora Ilonzo who bagged an achievers award,Dr.Kanayo Chukwurah of the state ASUBEB among others.

Highpoints on the occasion were the presentation of an award of excellence to Prof.Orogbu by the State Commissioner for Information Dr.Law Mefor who graced the occasion,and who used the forum to felicitate with women on their celebration.

Other highlights were the presentation of a posthumous award to the late Prof.Akunyili whose award was received by her son Obumneme Akunyili and an award of excellence to Dr.Dame Virgy Etiaba former Governor of Anambra State among others.

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is”Accelerate Action On Gender Equality,’ while the State NAWOJ adopted as its theme”Projecting Anambra Female Achievers (Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow)’

* Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *