The Anglican Communion, Diocese of Awka, on July 12, held its Trinity Diaconate Ordination Service at St. Lawrence Anglican Church, Mbaukwu, with a charge to newly ordained deacons to remain faithful and committed to fruitful ministry.
The service was presided over by the Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, the Most Rev. Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim.
Delivering the ordination charge, the retreatant, Ven. Onyinye Okpala, urged the deacons and the congregation to embrace “fruitfulness in the ministry,” drawing his message from John 15:1-5 and John 15:16.
Okpala described Jesus Christ as the true vine, stressing that enduring success in ministry could only be achieved through a steadfast relationship with Him.
“Fruitfulness is not by noise or title, but by abiding in Christ. 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 cautioned against what he termed “expired oil ministry” and encouraged the newly ordained deacons to remain devoted to prayer, the study of God’s Word and selfless service.
The candidates were presented by the Archdeacon, examined and admitted into the Holy Order of Deacons through the laying on of hands by the bishop, assisted by other priests.
As deacons, they are expected to assist in the ministries of the Word, the Sacraments and Christian charity as they begin their ordained service in the Church.
The ordination attracted clergy, church leaders, family members and other well-wishers from within and outside Anambra State. It concluded with a thanksgiving service, goodwill messages and a reception in honour of the newly ordained deacons.
Obianuju Enujioke is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
Students of Gonzaga Jesuit College, Okija, in Ihiala Local Government Area(LGA)of Anambra State, have earned international recognition after winning 24 awards at the International Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Olympiad Grand Finale held in Rome, Italy.
The achievement was announced in a post published on the official Facebook page of the Solution Innovation District (SID) on July 13, highlighting another milestone for Anambra’s education sector.
According to the announcement, the students secured 10 gold medals, three silver medals, eight bronze medals and three honourable mentions, demonstrating outstanding academic excellence in the international STEM competition.
A major highlight of the event was the performance of Okeke Somtochukwu and Nwafor Emmanuel Chinedu, who emerged as the Overall Second Best in the World in Science.
The two students achieved the feat in the Grades 9 to 11 Science category, placing Anambra State and Nigeria prominently on the global STEM map.
The Solution Innovation District described the accomplishment as a reflection of the brilliance, resilience and innovative spirit of Anambra’s young talents.
SID noted that the success reinforces confidence in the ability of Anambra students to compete and excel globally when provided with quality educational opportunities and a supportive learning environment.
The agency congratulated the award-winning students, their teachers, Gonzaga Jesuit College and all individuals whose dedication contributed to the historic international achievement.
The victory strengthens Anambra State’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation, STEM education and academic excellence under the Soludo administration’s Solution Agenda.
MaryAnn Chukwuma is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
By Judith Oraeki-Anigbogu The Ifediche Foundation for Women and Youth Empowerment (IFF-WYE), in collaboration with the Eziowelle Improvement Union (EIU), has on July 12 graduated 83 women and youths under its maiden Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Programme aimed at promoting self-reliance and reducing unemployment. The beneficiaries, sponsored by the Foundation’s founder, Mrs. Ify Omeludike, completed intensive training in various vocational skills and received starter packs to enable them establish sustainable businesses. The empowerment items included solar panels for renewable energy installation, industrial sewing machines, beauty kits, professional toolboxes, woodworking equipment and aluminium fabrication machines.
Representing the Commissioner for Youth Development, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Development and Sports, Mr. Emeka Omatah, described the initiative as a strategic intervention that complements the Anambra State Government’s drive to equip youths with productive skills and create employment opportunities. Speaking through her mother, Lady Grace Amobi, Mrs. Omeludike said the programme was designed to reduce poverty, promote entrepreneurship and improve the economic well-being of women and youths in Eziowelle. The President-General of the Eziowelle Improvement Union, Dr. Julian Obiora, commended the benefactress for her commitment to community development, while the chairman of the occasion, Chief Ugochukwu Ezeude, appreciated her generosity and prayed for greater accomplishments.
The Foundation’s Secretary, Mrs. Esther Ifeorah, said the empowerment programme reflects the organisation’s vision of building a self-reliant society through vocational training. Chief Laz Okafor and Chief Emeka Okoyeozor also described the initiative as a catalyst for youth empowerment and community development. The event featured the presentation of certificates and empowerment tools to beneficiaries and attracted government officials, community leaders, traditional rulers, stakeholders and residents, who applauded the Foundation for investing in the future of Eziowelle youths and women.MOI ”Judith is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State* #Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation #Anambraisrising #PowerInfrastructure #Solutionishere #Solutioncontinues
By Ngozi Omenakiti The Otu Odu Nri Cultural Association has extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Coordinator of the Ada Nri Global Initiative (ANGI) North America, Iyom Njideka Nri Ezukanma on July 11, following the successful inauguration of ANGI North America. In a congratulatory message, the association described the inauguration as a significant milestone in the collective efforts to preserve, promote and strengthen the rich cultural heritage and values of the ancient Nri Kingdom among Nri sons and daughters living in North America. It welcomed the new initiative as a platform to deepen cultural engagement, foster unity and support the wider community of Nri people abroad. The association commended Iyom Ezukanma for her exemplary leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to the promotion of Nri culture and identity. It noted that her selfless service continues to inspire members of the Nri community across the globe and expressed confidence that ANGI North America will play a vital role in sustaining and advancing Nri traditions in the diaspora. According to the association, the inauguration reflects the growing strength of Nri communal organisations overseas and the enduring bond between Nri people in the homeland and those living abroad. It pledged continued support for ANGI North America and its programmes, urging all Nri sons and daughters in North America to actively participate in the initiative. Ngozi Omenakiti is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State #Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation #Anambraisrising #PowerInfrastructure #Solutionishere #Solutioncontinues
The Anambra State Government, under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, is intensifying efforts to improve access to clean water and sanitation through the revival of regional water schemes and the construction of public toilet facilities across the state.
As part of the initiative, the government is reviving long-abandoned regional water schemes in Onitsha, Awka, and Otuocha. The objective is to restore pipe-borne water supply to homes, schools and public institutions while drilling solar-powered boreholes in rural communities with limited access to potable water.
The government has also extended clean water interventions to primary healthcare centres and public schools through the installation of boreholes and overhead water tanks. These measures are aimed at reducing the incidence of water-borne diseases and ensuring that pupils, patients, and healthcare workers have access to safe drinking water.
In addition, major gully erosion sites in communities such as Agulu and Nanka are being addressed, while drainage channels are being desilted ahead of the rainy season. These interventions are expected to help control flooding and protect groundwater sources and streams relied upon by many communities.
To strengthen waste management and environmental sanitation, the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA) has been re-equipped with additional trucks and personnel to improve waste evacuation in urban centres including Onitsha, Awka, and Nnewi. The initiative is intended to prevent refuse from blocking drainage systems and contributing to flooding.
As part of broader sanitation measures, new public toilet facilities have been constructed in markets and motor parks to discourage open defecation and improve hygiene standards in public spaces.
The Office of the First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has continued to promote hygiene awareness through community advocacy programmes focused on handwashing, proper waste disposal, and healthy sanitation practices.
To ensure sustainability, the state government is establishing community water committees to oversee the management of local boreholes and collect modest maintenance fees for the upkeep of the facilities.
These combined interventions reflect the administration’s commitment to improving public health, enhancing environmental sanitation, and expanding access to safe water for residents across Anambra State.
Nonyelum Ezumezu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
The Anambra State Government has intensified its campaign against quackery in the health sector with the arrest of a 47-year-old woman, Mrs. Onyinyechi Esther Charles, who is to be arraigned over allegations of carrying out surgical procedures without the required medical and surgical qualifications.
Mrs. Charles, an indigene of Abia State who is married to a man from Nteje, allegedly operated a traditional birth attendant (TBA) facility in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, where she is accused of performing caesarean sections, conducting normal vaginal deliveries and carrying out other surgical procedures. The facility has also been linked to reported cases of medical complications and fatalities.
According to the Anambra State Ministry of Health, the arrest followed investigations initiated by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal medical practice and protect the lives of residents.
The ministry stated that during interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted to performing caesarean sections, normal deliveries and other surgical procedures without the required qualifications or authorisation. It further revealed that she was previously known as Eze Nwanyi before later becoming a church minister and presenting herself as a surgeon.
During an inspection of the facility on Sunday, July 12, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, accompanied by the Mayor of Anambra East Local Government Area, Hon. Ifeanyi Chinweze, and security personnel, reportedly recovered surgical instruments and other medical equipment believed to have been used in the alleged unauthorised procedures.
Hospital beds where patients were reportedly treated were also found within the premises, while officials further discovered what appeared to be a shrine and an altar inside the facility.
The state government said the premises have been confiscated pending the outcome of legal proceedings, while the suspect will be arraigned before a competent court.
Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Obidike described the discovery as disturbing and a serious threat to public health. He said the Soludo administration would not allow unqualified individuals to endanger the lives of residents under the guise of providing healthcare.
Dr. Obidike warned members of the public against seeking medical care from unlicensed facilities or unqualified persons, urging expectant mothers and other patients to patronise only government-approved hospitals and duly registered healthcare providers. He reiterated that the Ministry of Health would sustain its surveillance and enforcement operations across the state to identify and prosecute illegal medical practitioners.
He stressed that the government remains committed to sanitising the health sector and ensuring that only licensed and qualified healthcare professionals provide medical and surgical services in Anambra State, adding that anyone found violating the law would face the full weight of legal sanctions.
Also speaking, the Mayor of Anambra East Local Government Area, Hon. Ifeanyi Chinweze, commended the Ministry of Health and security agencies for exposing the alleged illegal medical operation.
He assured residents that the local government would continue to support efforts aimed at eliminating quackery and other unlawful practices that endanger lives. He urged members of the public to promptly report suspected illegal health facilities and patronise only accredited hospitals and qualified healthcare professionals.
The case is expected to proceed before the court, where the allegations against the suspect will be determined in accordance with the law.
Stanley Nwako is of the Ministry of Health, Anambra State
The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has encouraged Nigerians to embrace natural foods, saying returning to nature is one of the greatest gifts people can give their bodies for healthier and longer lives.
Mrs. Soludo said this today, July 13 in her official handle that locally grown fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, roots, and tubers contain essential nutrients that help the body remain healthy, strong, and better equipped to fight diseases naturally every day.
According to her, consuming natural foods instead of highly processed meals significantly reduces the risk of developing lifestyle-related diseases while strengthening the body’s immune system and promoting overall well-being for everyone.
She explained that healthy eating also improves digestion, helps individuals maintain a healthy body weight, and provides the energy needed to perform daily activities effectively without depending on unhealthy processed food choices.
Mrs. Soludo stressed that healthy eating should not be viewed as an expensive lifestyle or a strict dieting routine but as a simple commitment to making wise and nutritious food choices consistently.
She urged families to take advantage of locally available food items, noting that nature has provided affordable and nutritious options capable of supporting healthy living while reducing dependence on processed and artificial foods.
The first lady further encouraged residents to fill their plates with wholesome foods, emphasizing that every healthy meal contributes to building stronger bodies, preventing illnesses, and improving the quality of life over time.
She maintained that adopting healthy eating habits is an investment in a longer, healthier, and happier future, adding that small daily nutritional decisions can produce significant health benefits for individuals and families alike.
Mrs. Soludo wished everyone a productive and healthy week while reaffirming her commitment to promoting healthy living across Anambra State through continuous public awareness on nutrition and healthy lifestyle practices.
Chinyere Nwoye is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Regina Caeli College of Nursing Sciences Awka held its maiden matriculation ceremony and the official opening of the college amid high expectations from the Matriculating students to excel both in character and in learning.
The events kicked off with a Holy Mass celebration presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev.Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Parish, Awka on July 11.
The Bishop in his homily, expressed delight in the successful take off of academic activities in the college and charged the matriculating students to strive to be of good character and to excel in their academics.
The prelate spoke of the determination of the college to provide quality teaching and expects that as a young college, public spirited individuals should donate generously to assist it in discharging its obligations.
During the reception after the Mass, the Chairman of the occasion, Barr. Sir Tony Agbasiere expressed confidence that the church being what it is, will provide the necessary spiritual back up and discipline to ensure the proper formation of the matriculating students.
Sir Agbasiere urged the students to be resolute in pursuing moral and academic excellence in the college.
He urged them to be patriotic in serving their father land after graduation if the condition is favourable, but to look for greener pastures outside the shores of Nigeria if the guy conditions in the country is not favourable for their stay
He noted that Nigeria has all it takes to make life meaningful for its citizens and urged the nation’s leaders to make the country work by providing the enabling environment especially in the area of security.
Speaking to journalists after the occasion, one of the guests and the Vice Chairman Anambra State Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, Comrade Ebere Nwaemesi charged the matriculating students to focus on their studies and not lose sight of why they are in school.
Nwaemesi urged them to be always mindful of their background in whatever they do.
In a remark, one of the matriculating nursing students Mr. Odinaka Isaiah promised to abide by all the ethics, rules and regulations of the college.
Michael Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) initiative has emerged as a transformative governance model, accelerating sustainable development through collaboration among government, private investors and local communities across Anambra State.
The initiative was introduced to promote inclusive development by encouraging communities and private individuals to partner with government in delivering critical infrastructure and social amenities for the benefit of residents across the state.
Under the PPCP framework, several communities have collaborated with the government to construct roads, rehabilitate schools, upgrade healthcare facilities and execute projects tailored to their most pressing developmental needs.
The model has strengthened community ownership by encouraging residents, town unions, philanthropists and business leaders to contribute resources toward projects that will benefit both present and future generations.
Through shared funding and collaboration, government resources have been stretched further, enabling more communities to benefit from quality infrastructure while maintaining standards and meeting project delivery timelines.
Projects delivered through the initiative include the City Square Mall in Awka, community road projects, school rehabilitation, upgrades of primary healthcare centres, water schemes, street lighting, erosion control measures and the UNICEF-funded Medical Store Centre at Amaku, which supports the Ministry of Health.
The initiative has strengthened trust between government and citizens by ensuring that communities actively participate in identifying priorities, monitoring projects and safeguarding completed infrastructure against vandalism and neglect.
By embracing the Public-Private-Community Partnership initiative, Governor Soludo has demonstrated that collective responsibility can serve as a powerful tool for building resilient communities and advancing his vision of a livable and prosperous Anambra State.
MaryAnn Chukwuma is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
Anambra Patriots on July 12, has honoured three distinguished members in recognition of their outstanding contributions to public service and the development of Anambra State.
The recipients are the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency (ICTA), Mr Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA); the Commissioner for Works, Arc. Okey Ezeobi; and the Chairman of Anambra Patriots, Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi.
Speaking during the ceremony at the organisation’s secretariat in Awka, the Patron of Anambra Patriots, Igwe Ben Izuchukwu Emeka (Oke Ebo II), said the awardees had distinguished themselves through competence, integrity and unwavering commitment to service.
He said the recognition was instituted to promote merit, excellence and selfless leadership, noting that the honourees had made remarkable contributions to governance, infrastructure development, digital transformation and community service in the state.
Emeka added that celebrating excellence would encourage responsible leadership, inspire greater commitment to public service and strengthen public confidence in merit based governance.
Responding on behalf of the recipients, the awardees thanked Anambra Patriots for the honour and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the state’s development through dedicated and impactful service.
They described the recognition as both an honour and a motivation to sustain efforts aimed at promoting good governance, infrastructure development, innovation and community advancement across Anambra.
The ceremony attracted government officials, members of Anambra Patriots and other stakeholders, underscoring the role of civic organisations in recognising excellence and encouraging impactful public service.
Angela Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
