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Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

CLERIC TASKS ANAMBRA STATE NUJ ON LOVE, UNITY AFTER ELECTION FRICTIONS. AS ODOGWU APPOINTS SEVERAL COMMITTEES FOR EFFICIENT ADMINISTRATION

By Uzo Ugwunze  :

The Senior Pastor Deeper Love Assembly International NUJ Complex Awka, Pastor Joseph Nwabueze has charged the Nigerian Union of Journalist (NUJ) Anambra State Council to embrace love and unity as a principle for progress.

He gave the charge while conducting dedication prayers for the newly inaugurated Exco during the post election February NUJ Congress at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre, Awka as the body welcomed a new administration after a period of electioneering campaigns that witnessed bickering , bitterness, campaign of calumny, peddling of half-truths or falsehood, exergerated misrepresentation of facts as opponents slugged it out during the electioneering campaigns before the journalists made their choice to return Dr. Emeka Odogwu for a second term in office as the chairman.

In his sermon titled ‘Put Love above all things’ ( Col 3:13,14), the prelate said that love should be placed above all other values in life, saying that if love leads other desires and aspiration of life would later fall in place or be achieved in the long run. ” Where there is love, forgiveness, there will be progress, harmony, cooperation and there is nothing the group wants to achieve which cannot be achieved.”

Moreover, the state chairman, Odogwu who professed that he has forgiven all wrongs against his person, urged others to equally do same. He  insisted that neither him nor any NUJ member was above the NUJ body, extending a hand of fellowship to those who lost in the election as he resolved to break his own records and attract more values , human capital and infrastructural development to the union. “I thank everyone, we are one big family”.

Odogwu urged every chapel that were still owing check off dues to pay up, adding that those NUJ chapels due for election should put their house in order and elect their officers before the next month’s congress.

The Special Adviser to Gov Soludo on Youth Empowerment Programme, Dr Nelson Omenugha who came to pledge solidarity with the union after a successful NUJ election, urged the journalists to uphold professionalism, objectivity and balance reporting when writing their news reports.

Omenugha further enumerated the various achievements of the Soludo led administration ranging from free education, free antenatal and delivery, 1 Youth 2 Skills program, free distribution and planting of improved seedlings, employment of teachers and health workers, massive infrastructural development and road networks, describing him as a youth friendly governor who deserves a second term.

Also, the NUJ Matriarch, Prof. Stella Okunna who delivered a financial good will message from Valentine Ozigbo to celebrate with the union on the successful NUJ election, further advised journalists to be thorough whenever they were writing any  report for publication to avoid grammatical errors. 

Highlights of the congress included appointment of Joseph Egbeocha as Caretaker Chairman, ABS chapel, Dr Stanley Onunkwo as Political Affairs committee Chairman among several other committees Chairmen, Secretaries and members for a prospective robust administrative era, distribution of bags of Rice donated by the House of Representatives Member, Awka North and South, Hon Lilian Orogbu.

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

ONITSHA NORTH MAYOR MOURNS LATE LAWMAKER, DEMANDS JUSTICE

By Chika Obi, Chioma Nwankwo and Claribel Udah  :

The Mayor of Onitsha North LGA, Mr. Nweze Tony Nwora has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Hon. Justice Azuka. 

The lawmaker, who represented Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly was kidnapped on December 24, 2024, and his decomposing body was discovered two days later along the Second Niger Bridge axis.

During the visit, the Mayor consoled the grieving family, particularly the mother and wife of the late lawmaker, expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss. 

He offered words of comfort and urged the family to seek solace in God, praying that the soul of Hon. Justice Azuka may rest in eternal peace while asking for divine strength for the bereaved.

Mayor Nwora assured the family that justice will be served and that all those responsible for the heinous act would face the full weight of the law. 

He later  signed the condolence register, symbolizing his commitment to supporting the family during this difficult time.

Accompanied by his cabinet members and councilors, led by Hon. Nnamdi Benjamin Okwuayanga, the Mayor’s visit highlighted not only his empathy but also his resolve to uphold law and order in Onitsha North LGA. 

The administration remains determined to ensure that such acts of violence are met with decisive legal action, reaffirming its commitment to the safety and well-being of the community.

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

SOLUDO’S GOVERNMENT, COMMITTED TO DEMOCRACY—MEFOR  

By Rose Oranye   :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, on Friday, February 7, 2025, received the new executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by the re-elected chairman, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, who paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Awka. 

Addressing the union leaders, Dr Mefor congratulated them for being the true choice of the people in their respective positions, adding that the Soludo government is committed to democracy, while the media is the bastion of democracy. 

According to him, “The Soludo government is committed to democracy. We were under pressure to try to interfere in the election, but we said people should be allowed to make their choices because this is democracy. The media is the bastion of democracy because, as the only agency that has the constitutional responsibility of holding government accountable to the people, its job is to defend democracy by holding government and governance accountable. You have been doing that job fairly well despite the challenges you face in the field.” 

He commended Anambra journalists for the fair and improved reportage of the Soludo government’s achievements and urged them not to relent. 

“We are not asking you to support Soludo’s government by way of confusing or lying to the people. Fair reportage here means saying it as it is and letting the people and posterity be the judge. I don’t expect anything less or different with the reconstituted team. If anything, we will be expecting more. This is an election year; it calls for fairness, even fairer reporting for people to get to know what Soludo has done with the mandate they freely gave him as their governor 34 months ago,” Mefor said. 

The commissioner further explained that the new security initiative, Operation Udo Ga-Achị, was set up to rid the state of criminals and that Agunechemba is the new name for the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG), adding that the group has recorded a lot of successes within this first month of operation. 

He urged the media and all Ndị Anambra to cooperate with the government to reclaim the state from criminals by providing necessary information. Whenever they see something, they should say something by calling 5111. 

Earlier in his remarks, the NUJ Chairman, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, assured that the union would continue to support the commissioner and the ministry in realising his dreams and those of the Soludo administration.

PUNCTUALITY PAYS: EDUCATION OFFICIAL REWARDS EARLY BIRDS AT WASHINGTON MEMORIAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL

By Claribel Udah/Chioma Nwankwo/Chika Obi  :

The Supervisory Councillor for Education and Social Development, Rt Hon Romanus Chinedu Eze, also known as YaGazie, visited Washington Memorial Grammar School Onitsha. 

The visit, which commenced at 7am, was part of the administration of Mayor Tony Nwora’s initiative to promote excellence and discipline among students and teachers.

During his address at the school, Eze shared his message of “Rewarding Excellence,” encouraging all to understand that hard work yields rewards. 

He emphasized that the well-known adage “the reward of teachers is in heaven” begins with tangible recognition here on earth. The official commended those who arrived early, highlighting the importance of punctuality as a cornerstone of academic success and personal development.

While urging the school community to maintain discipline, he also warned against the dangers of illicit drugs, smoking, and involvement in cultism, pointing out that smoking poses severe health risks and that any engagement in cult activities is not only frowned upon by the state government but is also against the law in Anambra State. His remarks served as a stern reminder of the personal and societal consequences of such actions.

Reflecting on his own journey, Eze stressed the transformative power of education, noting that his achievements in government and his previous roles, including as an elected Councillor and Speaker of the Onitsha North Legislative Assembly, were made possible through a solid educational foundation.

His personal story underscored the potential for every student to excel and reach positions of influence if they take their studies seriously.

The Supervisory Councillor also took the opportunity to praise Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his progressive policies, particularly the free education initiative that benefits all government-run primary and secondary schools across the state. The policy, which has seen the employment of over 8,000 teachers, is part of a broader effort to boost the quality of education in the region.

In recognition of their commitment, several teachers and students were presented with awards. Among the honored teachers were Nwebube Chinwe, Ifenu Maureen, and Ogbalu Uju, while students are Ali Samuel, Chukwuemelie Okwuonu, and Irene Eze also received tokens of appreciation for their punctuality and dedication. 

Eze assured the school community that he would continue his visits to motivate and encourage them toward achieving greater heights.

He acknowledged the significant efforts of the school principal, expressing his hope for her continued success and advancement. This event not only celebrates the achievements of early arrival but also reinforces the administration’s commitment to building a disciplined, thriving educational environment in Onitsha North under Mayor Nwora’s leadership.

*The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA GOVT INAUGURATES CARETAKER COMMITTEE FOR FRUITS, VEGETABLES DEALERS MARKET ONITSHA

By Ebele Iyke Odili/Amaka Isikala  :

The Anambra State Government, through the Office of the Special Adviser on Trade and Markets, has inaugurated a caretaker committee for the Fruits and Vegetables Dealers Market, Onitsha, located behind Power Mike, Ogbaru Local Government Area.

Speaking during the event at his office in Awka, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Markets,  (SPAD),Chief Evarist Uba, charged the newly appointed committee members to focus on maintaining order, fostering a business-friendly atmosphere, and implementing government policies for economic growth. 

He emphasized that leadership positions in the market should be held only by those actively engaged in business there to prevent conflicts and ensure fair representation.

“You have been appointed to manage the affairs of traders, not to play politics with your position,” Uba said. Your duty is to maintain order, promote a business-friendly environment, and uphold government policies to foster economic growth.”

He further noted that the government reserves the right to dissolve or replace any committee member if necessary, urging the appointees to justify the confidence placed in them through transparency and dedication.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Barr. Samuel Ike, advised the committee members to carry out their responsibilities with fairness, integrity, and commitment to improving market operations.

The Chairman of the committee, Paul Okafor, expressed gratitude to the state government for the opportunity and assured traders of an inclusive administration that would address their concerns while aligning with the government’s vision for market development.

The newly constituted caretaker committee are: Paul Okafor-Chairman, Alhaji Zuberu-Vice Chairman, Ogochukwu Okafor-Secretary, Isaac Nchezo-Assistant Secretary, Nkechi Nweke-Treasurer, Ifeyinwa Ukpai-Financial Secretary, Uchenna Ikemefuna-Provost, Alhaji Audu Yaro-Assistant Provost, Justina IkpeawucheWelfare Officer and Chinyere Anagbo-Assistant Welfare Officer.

Additional members include Sunday Onyeagbaru, Edward Inyang, Ngozi Arima, Sule Magaji, Uche Nwadike, Charles Egonu, Ikechukwu Nwabuisi, Celestina Osondu Ekeh, and Chioma Atu.

The inauguration of the committee is part of the state government’s broader effort to enhance market management and promote economic growth.

*Ebele and Amaka are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA JOINT TASK FORCE DEMOLISHES ILLEGAL SHANTIES IN TRANS NKISI, OTHER AREAS

By.Okechukwu Okolonji/Alufo Bonaventure :

The Anambra State Joint Task Force Team led by the  Anambra State Physical Planning Board  has demolished shanties at Transi Nkisi phase 1 area of Onitsha. 

Speaking during the exercise, the Executive Secretary, Anambra State Physical Planning Board in charge of Onitsha North Local Planning Authority,  Mr. Egbe Emmanuel, stated that the office had visited the area  severally and issued removal notice on the shanties scattered within the  axis of the NTA,Onitsha office which the developers  outrightly ignored, hence the exercise. 

In another operation, the team moved to  Enekwasumpu in Obosi, Idemili North LGA of the state and pulled down a building. According to Mr Stephen Ezenwa,the Executive Secretary in charge of Anambra State  Physical Planning Board,  Idemili North Local Planning Authority, the developer who is currently building on a waterways,  blocked  access road in the area, and as well building without govt approval.  

Mr Ezenwa further stated that despite several notices of stop work order issued to him, he kept adamant.  He noted that the building  has cracks all over,  and is likely to collapsed any moment.  He also revealed that the underground part of the building is being used for criminal activities.

One of the  residents of the area who wants to remain anonymous expressed his happiness  on the opening of the access road and lauded the government for their responsiveness.

* Okolonji and Alufo are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

SOLUDO’S PAN-NIGERIAN DISPOSITION AS AN ACCLAIMED LEADERSHIP MODEL

By Christian ABURIME :

National unity is a constant refrain in Nigeria, where ethnic divisions and sectional interests often dominate common political discourse. Yet, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, of Anambra State continues to garner accolades as an exemplar for true national integration. His actions since becoming Governor of Anambra State, particularly in political and civil service appointments, demonstrate a refreshing departure from the parochial politics that has plagued our nation for far too long.

As highlighted by veteran journalist and university don, Tunde Olusunle, in his insightful analysis, revisited Governor Soludo’s appointment of Joachim Achor from Abia State and Adebayo Ojeyinka from Osun State as Permanent Secretaries in Anambra’s Civil Service speaks volumes about his commitment to merit-based leadership. These appointments were not mere tokenism; they emerged from a rigorous selection process that included computer-based examinations, thorough security verification, and personal interviews with the governor himself.

Governor Soludo’s merit-based approach represents more than just administrative decisions; it embodies a philosophical shift in governance. 

Just recently, too, the governor appointed Mr Chris Molokwu, who hails from Delta State as MD of the State-owned Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS). This is aside several other appointments of individuals who are actually not from Anambra State, this writer inclusive. 

By looking beyond state boundaries and ethnic considerations, he demonstrates that competence and merit should be the primary criteria for public service. This approach aligns perfectly with global best practices, where talent and capability trump geographical origins.

The governor’s actions remind us of an essential truth: Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. When we tap into our vast pool of human resources without prejudice to ethnic or religious backgrounds, we position ourselves for exponential growth and development. This is particularly relevant in today’s global context, where Nigerian talents are making remarkable strides internationally, as evidenced by the recent recognition of six Nigerian professionals by the U.S. President for their exceptional contributions to science and engineering.

What makes Governor Soludo’s leadership style particularly noteworthy is its timing. In a period when some political leaders still cling to divisive rhetoric and ethnic considerations, his inclusive governance model offers a practical template for national integration. His administration proves that state boundaries need not be barriers to talent acquisition and deployment in public service.

The ripple effects of such leadership extend far beyond Anambra State. By creating an environment where competence is valued over connections, where merit trumps mediocrity, Governor Soludo is setting a precedent that is worthy of emulation. His actions demonstrate that true federalism is not just about resource control or political autonomy; it is about creating systems that allow the best talents to serve wherever their skills are needed most.

While Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of unity and national integration, leaders like Governor Soludo have continued to show us that these challenges are not insurmountable. Through deliberate policies and actions that promote inclusion and merit, we can build a nation where every qualified citizen has an opportunity to serve and contribute to national development, regardless of their state of origin.

Let the message continue to resonate in our ears: Nigeria’s path to greatness lies not in ethnic considerations or geographical divisions but in our ability to harness the diverse talents and capabilities of all our citizens Governor Soludo’s exemplary leadership in Anambra State serves as a practical demonstration of how this can be achieved. It is a model that deserves not just recognition but replication across the nation. Looking ahead, one can only hope that more Nigerian leaders will embrace this progressive approach to governance. For in doing so, we move closer to realizing the dream of a truly united and prosperous Nigeria, where merit and competence are the primary currencies of public service.

PASTOR NWABUEZE CHARGES JOURNALISTS TO PRIORITIZE LOVE FOR SUCCESS AND UNITY… AS ANAMBRA NUJ HOLDS FEBRUARY CONGRESS

By Chizoba Njaka  :

The Senior Pastor of Deeper Love Assembly, Pastor Joseph Nwabueze has urged journalists in Anambra State to prioritize love in their endeavors, emphasizing its crucial role in achieving success and unity. 

Speaking at the NUJ, Anambra State Council Secretariat during a prayer session marking the first congress of 2025 on the topic, Put Love Above All Things,” Pastor Nwabueze stressed that love surpasses material possessions, authority, and power in importance.

He noted that tradition and belief significantly impact one’s life, advising journalists to incorporate love into their work to earn respect. Pastor Nwabueze emphasized that love fosters unity in families, unions, and the state, warning that its absence can lead to hate and violence.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Youth Empowerment and special guest of the congress,  Dr. Nelson Omenugha congratulated the new executive of the Council, led by Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD, on their victory. He expressed his well-wishes for the union’s future success and appealed to journalists to continue supporting the Soludo administration through their reporting and active participation in government activities.

The state Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD, emphasized the importance of self-promotion among journalists, stressing that many struggle to effectively market themselves to the public. He urged journalists to present themselves professionally and identify with the union to enhance their credibility and reputation.

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

EEDC INTRODUCES “EEDC BOT” SELF-SERVICE APPLICATION

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

In consistent with its quest in leveraging technology to enhance its operations and improve customer experience, the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has introduced a self-service application known as “EEDC BOT”

The application, which is currently targeted at prepaid customers streamlines access to essential functions while providing instant support through the social media platforms, such as Facebook and WhatsApp, thereby revolutionising the way customers interact with the company.

This was made known in a release by the Head, Corporate Communication, EEDC, Mr Emeka Eze

According to him, “EEDC BOT” will significantly speed up responses to common requests and queries by customers through two primary channels (Facebook and WhatsApp).

“To further ensure a good customer experience, a dedicated Facebook page has been created for this purpose and customers can now interact with EEDC through this platform.

“In addition, a dedicated phone number has been provided for WhatsApp, enabling customers to access EEDC via this messaging platform.

“Prepaid customers are encouraged to take advantage of the self-service to resolve issues relating to their prepaid accounts by saving the WhatsApp number (08150826233) as “EEDC BOT” on their phone and send “Hi” or “100” to activate the menu and select a request as applicable. They can equally visit EEDC official Facebook page to access this Application. Login access is not required for this purpose.”

He further said, “Upon initiating a chat, customers will receive interactive codes, and they can select as it applies to their specific needs. Some of the available services offered by “EEDC BOT” include: Chat with a Customer Service Agent, Request for Token, Meter Application Request, KCT Generation, Last Token Retrieval, Arrears Balance Inquiry, New Service Request, Transaction History, and many more.

“By utilizing this Self-Service, EEDC aims at offering a more efficient and user-friendly approach to customer service by efficiently managing its customers, reducing waiting time, and promptly resolving issues.

“EEDC is excited to include “EEDC BOT” to some of the innovative solutions it has introduced in its operations to enhance service to its esteemed customers.

*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ROUND TWO BIG CATCH-UP: ASPHCDA, SMOH AND PARTNERS SENSITIZE STAKEHOLDERS 

By Nnedinma Okeke/Azuka Nnabuife/Chukwudi Nwauba  :

The Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners has held a one-day Stakeholders Engagement meeting on the second round Big Catch-Up campaign to be held in nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State. 

The nine LGAs includes: Aguata, Ayamelum, Anaocha, Idemili North, Idemili South, Ihiala, Orumba North, Orumba South, and Nnewi South LGAs respectively. 

The engagement meeting, which was held in Awka was used to sensitize Stakeholders to include; Representatives from the Ministry of Information, NOA, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, ASUBEB, Religious leaders, Traditional Rulers, Presidents General, the Media, ASATU Men and Women on the campaign. 

The Executive Secretary ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem, urged the stakeholders to use their various medium and platforms in ensuring that immunization messages with special reference to the BCU campaign gets to the grassroots. 

“The BCU campaign is of high importance because it is an opportunity for us to reach zero dose/unimmunized children, inorder to ensure that they are fully immunized and protected from vaccine preventable diseases,” she emphasized. 

The Permanent Secretary, SMOH, Pharm Obiageli Uchebo noted that the state government was committed to ensuring children in Anambra live healthy lives. 

She urged stakeholders to ensure that they play their roles to ensure that eligible children in the state aged zero to 59 months were fully immunized and protected from deadly diseases as the vaccines were free, safe and effective. 

The Director Disease Control and Immunization, ASPHCDA, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi, noted that the essence of the BCU campaign was to ensure that children with special reference to those aged 12 to 59 months who missed their vaccinations during the COVID-19 era were reached and immunised.

Dr Uju Eze, UNICEF Strategic Behavioral Change (SBC) Consultant, explained that the BCU campaign were for zero dose/unimmunized children who had uncompleted immunization status.

She, further, explained that the nine LGAs where the BCU campaign was ongoing were underperforming in Routine Immunization (RI), urging the stakeholders to use their network in their respective LGAs to help sensitize and create awareness on the importance of RI.

Also present at the meeting were State team and Partners. 

*The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra state

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