News

OGBARU LEADERS URGE ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT TO FAST-TRACK HOST COMMUNITY COMMISSION

By Nwanneka Okechukwu
‎
‎
‎The Chairman of the Ogbaru Oil and Gas Sub-Committee, Chief Anthony Okwesa, has called on the Anambra State Government to expedite the establishment of the Host Community Commission to address the developmental needs of oil-producing communities across the state.
‎
‎
‎Chief Okwesa made the appeal on July 9 during a courtesy visit by members of the committee to the Anambra State Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu. He commended the commissioner for his commitment to the welfare of oil-producing communities, particularly Ogwu Ani-Ocha in Ogbaru Local Government Area.

‎
According to him, even before assuming office, Prof. Ofoegbu played a significant role in ensuring that Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) conducted the mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in the community, a step he said helped restore peace and build confidence among residents.
‎
‎
‎Chief Okwesa explained that the visit was aimed at appreciating the commissioner’s efforts while also seeking clarification on the state government’s plans for oil exploration and development in Ogbaru.
‎He decried the poor state of infrastructure in the host communities, lamenting that despite their contribution to the state’s oil industry, residents still lack access to potable water, quality roads and adequate healthcare facilities.
‎
‎
‎He called for the implementation of the law establishing the host community commission, which was signed in 2024, expressing confidence that the commission would provide a lasting framework for resolving issues involving the government, oil companies and host communities.
‎
‎
‎Responding, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu, assured the delegation that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo remains committed to improving the living conditions of residents in oil-producing communities.
‎
‎
‎He disclosed that the government is planning critical infrastructure projects, including the construction of a primary healthcare centre, schools and access roads in the affected communities. He added that his ministry is working closely with the ministry of transport to deliver projects that will promote sustainable development and improve the environment.
‎
‎Speaking on behalf of the Ogwu Ani-Ocha community, Mr. Udoka Izuka expressed appreciation to the commissioner for his commitment to the establishment of the Anambra State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ANSOPADEC) and other proposed development initiatives.
‎
‎
‎He described the plans as a major step towards addressing the longstanding needs of oil-producing communities and pledged the community’s support for the government’s efforts to combat illegal bunkering.
‎
‎
‎In his remarks, Chief Okwesa thanked the commissioner for receiving the delegation and reaffirmed the commitment of the people of Ogbaru to partner with the government in promoting peace and development. He expressed optimism that Prof. Ofoegbu’s dedication would continue to earn the confidence and appreciation of oil-producing communities across the state.
‎
‎
‎Nwanneka Okechukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
‎
‎
‎#Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation
‎#Anambraisrising
‎#PowerInfrastructure
‎#Solutionishere
‎#Solutioncontinues
‎

ANAMBRA JOINS GLOBAL COMMUNITY TO MARK OLYMPIC DAY RUN 2026

By Chinyere Nwoye

The people of Anambra State joined the international community on Saturday to commemorate the 2026 Olympic Day Run, promoting fitness, peace, unity and healthy living among residents.

Hundreds of participants from different walks of life converged in Awka for the exercise, demonstrating enthusiasm for sports and physical fitness through the annual global event.

The participants walked from Aroma Junction through the UNIZIK Temporary Site Junction and Kwata Junction before ending the exercise at the Awka Township Stadium.

Sports enthusiasts, athletes, fitness experts, football lovers and members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra State chapter, actively participated in the event.

Also present was the Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, Mr. Chikelue Iloenyosi, who joined other stakeholders in promoting the values of the Olympic movement.

The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha-Mba, led the participants and encouraged residents to embrace sports as a practical way of staying healthy and physically fit.

Agha-Mba said the Olympic Day Run promotes peace, love, friendship, togetherness and healthy living, noting that sports remain a powerful tool for social integration and development.

The commissioner also commended the Healthy Living Initiative of the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, saying the programme has inspired many residents to adopt healthier lifestyles through regular physical activities.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Miss Jane Okoye described Olympic Day as a celebration of movement, confidence, friendship and unity, adding that sports continue to unite people across cultures and give participants a strong sense of belonging.

She urged residents to sustain the culture of regular exercise, stressing that embracing sports would improve physical wellbeing, strengthen communities and promote healthier lifestyles across Anambra State.
Chinyere Nwoye is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation

Anambraisrising

Informationiskey

Solutionishere

Solutioncontinues

ANAMBRA STRENGTHENS FREE ANTENATAL AND DELIVERY PROGRAMME WITH FRESH MEDICAL SUPPLIES

By Stanley Nwako

The Anambra State Government has taken another significant step towards improving maternal and child healthcare by commencing the procurement and distribution of essential medicines, consumables, surgical materials and medical equipment to support its Free Antenatal Care (ANC) and Delivery Services Programme across public health facilities in the state.

The procurement covers a wide range of items required for routine antenatal care, safe deliveries, caesarean sections and emergency obstetric services. These include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, anaesthetic drugs, sutures, surgical consumables, syringes, cannulas, laboratory reagents, disinfectants, diagnostic supplies and other essential medical items needed to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.

The programme also includes the supply of antenatal medications such as iron and folic acid supplements, calcium, vitamin C, multivitamins and other drugs aimed at promoting the health of pregnant women throughout pregnancy.

To strengthen diagnostic and infection prevention services, health facilities will equally receive laboratory test kits, detergents, methylated spirit, glucose preparations, partographs, spinal needles and other consumables that are critical to quality maternal healthcare.

The procurement is expected to enhance the capacity of government-owned hospitals to provide timely, safe and effective care for pregnant women and newborns while ensuring that healthcare workers have the necessary materials to deliver quality services.

The initiative is in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s commitment to ensuring that no woman dies while giving birth because of financial barriers. Since the introduction of the Free Antenatal Care and Delivery Programme, thousands of women have benefited from free maternal healthcare services across the state.

The latest supply of medicines and equipment further demonstrates the administration’s resolve to sustain quality healthcare delivery, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and strengthen the healthcare system in line with the state’s health sector transformation agenda.

The Anambra State Ministry of Health reaffirmed that all procured items will meet approved manufacturers’ specifications and quality standards before distribution to designated health facilities, ensuring that residents continue to receive safe, effective and affordable healthcare services.

Stanley Nwako is of the Ministry of Health, Anambra State

A DAY OF HARVEST IS COMING, SAYS BISHOP IKEAKOR

By Chinelo Okeke

The Anglican Bishop of Amichi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ephraim Ikeakor, has reminded Christians that a day of harvest and reckoning awaits everyone, urging believers to live righteous lives in preparation for eternity.

Bishop Ikeakor made the call on July 9 during the burial service of Late Barrister Mrs. Obianuju Ijeoma Umeh Ochiora (née Okeke) at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State.

Delivering his sermon, the Bishop quoted Hebrews 9:27, stressing that it is appointed unto man to die once and after that comes judgment, urging Christians to remain steadfast in faith.
He expressed concern over the declining commitment of many people toward God’s work and obedience to His commandments, emphasizing that genuine faith must be reflected through righteous living and total submission.

The cleric noted that no one knows when God, the owner of the harvest, will call anyone home, stressing that this reality demands daily preparedness, vigilance, and unwavering commitment to godly living.

Bishop Ikeakor explained that God alone determines the time of every person’s departure from the world, maintaining that no individual can question His authority or influence His divine decisions.

He warned the congregation against careless living, reminding them that life belongs entirely to God, who alone has the authority to give life and take it according to His will.

The Bishop described the late Barrister Mrs. Obianuju Ijeoma Umeh Ochiora as one who had completed her earthly journey, urging mourners to live worthy lives in anticipation of the final day of reckoning.

The burial service was attended by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, former Attorney General Professor Sylvia Ifemeje, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, members of the Nigerian Bar Association, Aguata Branch, and other dignitaries.

Chinelo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.

AnambraState #FaithAndHope #ChristianLiving #MinistryOfInformation

ANAMBRA’S IGBA BOI INITIATIVE GAINS NATIONAL RECOGNITION, DRAWS ACADEMIC INTEREST

By Ifeoma Aniagbado

The Anambra State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening and institutionalising the Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme, popularly known as Igba Boi, as a sustainable strategy for youth empowerment, entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth.

The reaffirmation was made on July 9 during the 127th Inaugural Lecture delivered by Prof. Chinedu Uzochukwu Onyeizugbe of the Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Management Sciences. The lecture focused on an improved model of the Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme and its role in driving small and medium-scale enterprise development in Nigeria.

Representing Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim noted that the administration’s efforts to formalise and strengthen the Igba Boi system were initially underestimated but have now earned national recognition.

He said several states are studying the Anambra model with the intention of adapting it to their local contexts, describing the development as evidence of Anambra’s leadership in youth development and enterprise promotion.

According to him, the Soludo administration is determined to continuously improve the scheme so that future generations inherit a more structured, impactful and sustainable system capable of creating wealth, expanding opportunities and empowering young people.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of Prof. Onyeizugbe’s book, Navigating the Labyrinth of SME Development in Nigeria: Unveiling an Improved Model of the Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme as a Mitigant. The publication was officially launched by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie.

Speaking in an interview, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Mr Patrick Agha-Mba, commended Prof. Onyeizugbe for his contribution to youth development through his extensive research on the Igbo apprenticeship scheme.

He described the publication as a significant intellectual contribution that complements Governor Soludo’s youth empowerment agenda and praised the professor’s leadership as Chairman of the One Youth, Two Skills (1Y2S) Programme.

In his lecture and publication, Prof. Onyeizugbe examined the development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, the role of financial institutions and the contributions of international development partners, including the World Bank and the United Nations.

He presented a comprehensive analysis of the Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme, exploring its evolution, defining characteristics, challenges and the significance of the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Law in institutionalising the age-long system.

It reinforced Anambra State’s position under Governor Soludo as a leading force in preserving, modernising and promoting the Igba Boi system as a catalyst for sustainable economic transformation.

The event attracted traditional rulers, senior government officials, academics, business leaders, students and members of the media, underscoring the growing national and international recognition of the Igbo Apprenticeship Scheme as an innovative model for enterprise development.

Ifeoma Aniagbado is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

anambraministryofinformationandvaluereformation

anambraisrising

igbaboi

gainsnationalrecognition

academicinterest

solutionishere

solution2.0

solutioncontinues

MAMA NIGER TASKS WOMEN ON GODLY LIVING, MENTORSHIP AT DIOCESE CONFERENCE

By Chika Obi

The President of the Diocese on the Niger Women’s Ministry, Dr. Elsie Nonyelum Nwokolo (FPSN), has urged women across the Diocese to embrace godly living, mentor the younger generation and remain steadfast in righteous conduct.

Nwokolo, popularly known as Mama Niger, made the call on July 11, while delivering her presidential address on the third day of the 2026 Diocese on the Niger Women’s Conference at Immanuel Anglican Church, Onitsha.

She said lasting wisdom, strong families and a morally sound society could only be built on the fear of God, citing Proverbs 9:10 as the foundation of Christian living.

The Women’s Ministry President also commended the Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev.Owen Chiedozie Nwokolo, for his leadership, describing the successful hosting of the recent Diocesan Synod by Nkpor New Covenant Archdeaconry as evidence of the Diocese’s continued spiritual growth.

She expressed appreciation to Inland Town Archdeaconry and its Archdeacon, Ven. Emmanuel Okechukwu Ukpeke, for hosting the conference and for their commitment and hospitality throughout the event.

Nwokolo urged women to intentionally mentor children and young people in Christian values, stressing that the future of the Church and society depends on raising a generation rooted in the fear of God.

She also cautioned women against immoral relationships and dishonest business practices, urging them to remain worthy ambassadors of Christ in their homes, workplaces and communities.

Highlights of the conference included goodwill donations from individuals, organisations and institutions in support of ongoing Women’s Ministry projects, underscoring members’ commitment to advancing the ministry’s programmes.

Chika Obi is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation

Anambraisrising

Women’sConference2026GodlyLiving

Solutionishere

Solutioncontinues

ARCHBISHOP IBEZIM ORDAINS NEW DEACONS, CHARGES THEM TO EMBRACE FRUITFUL MINISTRY

By Obianuju Enujioke
‎
‎St. Lawrence Anglican Church, Mbaukwu, was filled with worshippers and well-wishers on July 12 as the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Diocese of Niger, held its Trinity Diaconate Ordination Service, during which new Deacons were admitted into the Holy Order of Deacons.
‎
‎
‎The sacred service was presided over by the Most Rev. Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop of the Diocese of Awka.
‎
‎
‎A major highlight of the ordination was the charge delivered by the Retreatant, Ven. Prof. Onyinye Okpala, who admonished the newly ordained Deacons and the entire congregation to remain committed to “Fruitfulness in the Ministry,” emphasizing the need for steadfastness, spiritual growth, and faithful service in their Christian calling.
‎
‎
‎Addressing the congregation, Ven. Prof. Okpala reminded them that Jesus Christ is the true Vine and that lasting success in ministry can only be achieved by remaining in Him. “Fruitfulness is not by noise, not by title, but by abiding. The world is watching in this age of technology. God has called you to bear fruits in season and out of season,” he said.
‎
‎
‎He further cautioned against what he described as “expired oil ministry,” urging the newly ordained Deacons to remain steadfast in prayer, devoted to the Word of God, and committed to serving with sincerity and humility. The service attracted clergy, dignitaries, family members, and well-wishers from within and outside Anambra State.
‎
‎
‎Obianuju Enujioke is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
‎
‎
‎#Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation
‎#Anambraisrising
‎#PowerInfrastructure
‎#Solutionishere
‎#Solutioncontinues
‎

‎NOCEN PROVOST REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO QUALITY EDUCATION, STAFF WELFARE DURING DEMONSTRATION SCHOOLS VISIT

By Obianuju Azukaego
‎
‎
‎The Provost of Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe (NOCEN), Prof. Victor Ifeanyi Obiora Ndirika, on July 8, paid a working visit to the College Demonstration Schools in Awka, comprising the Demonstration Secondary School and the Demonstration Primary School.
‎
‎The visit formed part of the College Management’s ongoing efforts to assess the quality of teaching and learning, inspect available facilities, evaluate infrastructure, and engage staff on issues relating to their welfare and the overall development of the schools.
‎
‎Addressing members of staff during the visit, Prof. Ndirika reaffirmed the Management’s commitment to improving the physical infrastructure of the schools while giving priority to the welfare and professional development of staff.
‎
‎He said, “I am here to appreciate your commitment and invaluable contributions to the training of the next generation of leaders and scholars.
‎
‎I also want to understand your welfare needs and the challenges confronting you so that, together, we can build stronger and more effective demonstration schools.”
‎
‎The Provost further urged the staff to remain steadfast in the discharge of their duties by sustaining high academic standards, promoting discipline, and fostering excellence in teaching and learning.
‎
‎He emphasised that quality education remains the bedrock of human capital development and sustainable national progress.
‎
‎Responding on behalf of the staff of the Demonstration Secondary School, the Principal, Mr. Gabinus Ukah, expressed profound appreciation to the Provost for what he described as a historic visit.
‎
‎He noted that the visit had boosted staff morale and demonstrated the Management’s genuine concern for the growth and advancement of the demonstration schools.
‎
‎Similarly, the Headmistress of the aforementioned school, Mrs. Ijeoma Nnagbo, represented by Mrs. Obiageli Okwuanaso, thanked the Provost for identifying with the staff and pledged their continued commitment to delivering quality education and supporting the vision of the College Management.
‎
‎The working visit further underscores the unwavering commitment of the NOCEN Management, under the leadership of Prof. Victor Ifeanyi Obiora Ndirika, to repositioning the College Demonstration Schools as centres of excellence for quality basic education and practical teacher-training experience.
‎
‎Obianuju Azukaego is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
‎
‎
‎#Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation
‎#Anambraisrising
‎#PowerInfrastructure
‎#Solutionishere
‎#Solutioncontinues

ANAMBRA, UNIZIK STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP FOR EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

By Obiageli Nwankwo

Anambra State and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration aimed at advancing sustainable educational development and innovation across the state.

The renewed commitment was highlighted during a courtesy visit on July 10 by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ekene Longinus Ogugua, to the Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Bond Stanley Anyaehie, in Awka.

Welcoming the Commissioner, Prof. Anyaehie commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his administration’s investments in the education sector, advocating stronger collaboration with the university, particularly in supporting the institution’s Demonstration Primary and Secondary Schools.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that strategic partnerships between government and universities provide opportunities to enhance teaching quality, educational research, professional development, innovation and improved learning outcomes for students across the state.

In his response, Dr. Ogugua reaffirmed the Ministry of Education’s readiness to work closely with educational institutions, describing collaboration as essential to providing accessible, innovative, inclusive and globally competitive education for every Anambra child.

He said that sustained engagement with universities and other stakeholders would strengthen educational policies, build institutional capacity and promote human capital development, while ensuring that ongoing reforms remain responsive to evolving global educational trends.

Education analysts have observed that stronger collaboration between government and higher institutions can promote evidence-based policymaking, curriculum enhancement, teacher development and practical solutions capable of improving learning outcomes at all levels of education.

The meeting reflects the Soludo administration’s emphasis on partnerships as key drivers of educational transformation, complementing ongoing investments in infrastructure, digital learning, skills acquisition and quality assurance throughout Anambra State.

Present during the visit were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Alex Chinwuba Asigbo; Prof. Enemali Mike; Dr. Chukwuemeka Christian Eleojo; Mrs. Obiageli Chiegboka; and other university officials.

Obiageli Nwankwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

anambraministryofinformationandvaluereformation

anambraisrising#ministryofeducation

educationaldevelopment#informationiskey

solutionishere

solution2.0

solutioncontinues

‎SOLUDO INNOVATION DISTRICT OPEN NEW EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR ANAMBRA TALENTS

By MaryAnn Chukwuma
‎
‎
‎The Solution Innovation District (SID) has announced fresh employment opportunities for qualified professionals, inviting talented individuals to apply for available positions across different technical and customer-focused roles.
‎
‎The vacancies were announced in a recruitment notice published on the official Facebook page of the Solution Innovation District on July 11.
‎
‎According to the notice, the recruitment aims to connect skilled individuals with meaningful opportunities that promote innovation, professional growth, and impactful contributions to Anambra State’s digital economy.
‎
‎The initiative aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of positioning Anambra as Nigeria’s innovation hub by creating sustainable employment and expanding opportunities for technology-driven economic growth.
‎
‎The advertised positions include Mid Level Software Developer, Telesales Associate, and Technical Support Officer, each with clearly outlined responsibilities and qualification requirements.
‎
‎SID said the Mid-Level Software Developer will build secure software applications, collaborate with product teams, and maintain efficient digital platforms supporting innovative solutions.
‎
‎The Telesales Associate will drive revenue growth through customer engagement, manage client relationships, document interactions, and achieve established sales performance targets.
‎
‎For the Technical Support Officer role, applicants are expected to troubleshoot technical issues, resolve support tickets, install hardware and software, ensuring efficient service delivery and customer satisfaction.
‎
‎Interested applicants were encouraged to submit applications through the designated online portal or by scanning the QR code provided in the notice.
‎
‎SID reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation, nurturing local talent, creating employment opportunities, and accelerating Anambra State’s transformation into a leading technology and innovation ecosystem.
‎
‎MaryAnn Chukwuma is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
‎
‎
‎#Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation
‎#Anambraisrising
‎#PowerInfrastructure
‎#Solutionishere
‎#Solutioncontinues
‎