Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

ANAMBRA COMMISSIONER FOR HEALTH MAKES UNSCHEDULED VISITS TO AWKUZU, ENUGWU-UKWU GENERAL HOSPITALS

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, has carried out unscheduled visits to Awkuzu and Enugwu-Ukwu General Hospitals aimed at assessing the state of healthcare, service delivery and ensuring that hospitals in the state maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and patient care.

He toured various departments within both hospitals, including the outpatient and emergency units, as well as the wards.

During the visits, the Commissioner observed the condition of hospital facilities, the availability of medical supplies, and the overall welfare of patients and staff.

Dr. Obidike emphasized the importance of maintaining operational excellence in all public health facilities across the state.

“These unannounced visits are part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that healthcare facilities in the state are providing quality care to the people.

“It is essential that we maintain high standards in all our hospitals so as to foster public trust and improve health outcomes.

“I must commend the medical personnel at Awkuzu General Hospital for their commitment and professionalism in attending to their patients and I urged Enugwu-Ukwu medical personnel to learn from Awkuzu General Hospital workers.”

The Commissioner also took the opportunity to engage with hospital staff, offering support and encouragement, identifying areas that require improvement.

He acknowledged the hard work of the medical personnel and urged them to continue prioritizing patient care and professionalism at all times.

Dr. Obidike noted that the government of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo is committed to addressing any challenges identified at all times.

These unscheduled visits are part of the mandate given to us by the governor, broader strategy to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare services in the state, with a focus on accountability, transparency, and public health improvement.

The Commissioner while calling on residents to report any issues they experience at healthcare facilities, assured them that prompt action will be taken where necessary.

*Nwauba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.

IDEMILI NORTH NYCN LAUNCHES ANTI-DRUG ABUSE CAMPAIGN

By Chiedu Uche Okoye and Amaka Iloanya ;

National Youth Council of Nigeria(NYCN), Idemili North Chapter, under the leadership of Comr. Nwobosi Gideon Chukwuebuka, has kicked off awareness campaign for its upcoming programme tagged “Idemili North Youth Redemption Crusade”.

The president of the youth organisation in Idemili North LGA, Comrade Chukwuebuka Nwobosi, made the disclosure in his office at Ogidi about the forthcoming week-long event scheduled to take place this month.

He said the programme is designed to educate impressionable school children in Idemili North LGA on the consequences of their involvement in such anti-social acts as drug abuse, teenage prostitution, truancy in school, cultism, stealing, abortion, early marriage, and other social vices.

According to Comrade Nwobosi, the organisation would visit two secondary schools in each town, which is in Idemili North LGA, for the reformative, educative, and counselling programme.

More so, Comr. Nwobosi expressed his readiness to partner with NDLEA, NPF, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Information, ASATU, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and other relevant agencies to ensure a smooth and successful program in Idemili North LGA .

He regretted that many young people, who failed to realise their potential owing to bad parenting, peer pressure/influence, and misguidance, are now lunatics, single mothers, drug addicts, criminals, and layabouts.

He, however, expressed optimism that the NYCN Idemili North Chapter would use the programme to re-mould the personalities of the young people and steer them to the right path of moral rectitude in order for them to become useful and responsible citizens of Nigeria.

Other members of the NYCN Idemili North Chapter, who accompanied Comrade Nwobosi on the awareness campaign for its programme were Comrades Chinedu Okenwa, Kelly; Emmanuel Muoghalu, Ajee; Adaora Obiesie, Adadioranma; Emeka Ezeanya; and others

Okoye and Iloanya are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NNEWI DUAL ROAD PROJECT TAKES OFF WITH DEMOLITION OF MARKED STRUCTURES

By Enoch Uzuegbunam/Anthony Okpanku/Chioma Akaogu :

In a significant step towards transforming Nnewi’s infrastructure, the demolition of marked structures commenced has commenced to pave way for the dual road reconstruction project. The project aimed at enhancing connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.

President Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, Dr. Maduka Atuenyi, expressed support for the project, praising Governor Soludo for initiating the work. He ensured a smooth demolition process with security personnel. The clearing of structures was initially scheduled to start early in the morning but was delayed to allow residents to remove their belongings.

The supervising councilor on works in Nnewi North LGA, Mr Amobi Adigwulu who represented the chairman, Mr Echezona Anazodo, confirmed the project’s 12-months timeline. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of the governor and chairman to make nnewi a wonderful city and urged residents to comply with the reconstruction process.

Nnewi Youth Forum President, Ejim Ucheagwu appealed to affected individuals to endure the temporary inconvenience, citing the success of Okpunoeze Road as an example of the project’s potential benefits.

Some residents expressed joy on the project. Chioma Okeke, Mr Ben, a commercial motorcyclist praised the governor, acknowledging the long-term economic benefits.

Also Mr. Mike, a Keke driver, praised the community’s cooperation, saying, “God bless Soludo for this; more is coming.”

The demolition began at Owerri road (roundabout junction area)proceeding down to Ozubulu -Okija Road axis.

Uzuegbunam, Okpanku and Akaogu are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NNEWI NORTH INFORMATION OFFICERS PAY COURTESY VISIT TO CHAIRMAN ANAZODO

By Chidubem Okoye, Enoch Uzuegbunam, Anthony Okpanku and Chioma Akaogu :

In a show of solidarity and cooperation, information officers from the Ministry of Information, Awka posted to Nnewi North LGA have paid a visit to the Chairman of the LGA, Mr Echezona Anazodo to familiarize themselves with him and also congratulate him on his emergence as the newly elected chairman.

Mr Anazodo who warmly welcomed the officers, promised to collaborate with them and expressed his joy at having them on board. He emphasized his commitment to working closely with Governor Charles Soludo to transform Nnewi into a great city.

As the newly elected chairman, Anazodo has already begun making strides in Nnewi North. He has inspected damaged roads, reaffirming his commitment to partnering with the community for development. With his focus on security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment, Anazodo aims to make Nnewi North a prosperous homeland for all.

Okoye, Uzuegbunam, Okpanku and Akaogu are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NDI IGBO UNITE TO PRESERVE IGBO LANGUAGE, SAYS INFORMATION COMMISSIONER MEFOR

By Obianuju Umeh :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor has called on ndi Igbo to promote and sustain Igbo language

Dr Mefor gave this charge at the 2024 celebration of Asusu Igbo ga- adigide organised by Anambra State Library board,

He revealed that Igbo language is amongst the listed world endangered languages.

The information boss frowned at parents who rebuke their children that speak Igbo , urging them to be at the forefront in making sure that their children speak their mother tongue.

He mentioned Igbo audio visual tapes as one of the gadgets to help children learn Igbo language.

Dr Mefor advised state government to be intentional about promoting Igbo Language by giving scholarship to Igbo language scholars

He pledged the support of Anambra State Government through the Ministry of Information to help promote and preach the importance of sustaining Igbo language to a wider audience.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Director, Anambra State Library, Mrs Obioma Obalum said that the annual programme was aimed at promoting Igbo language and culture , noting that language is one’s identity.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof L.O Ezenweke of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, commended the efforts of the library for hosting such programme and advised the students to know their native mother tongue as well as central Igbo.

Speaking on the theme , ‘Umu ntorobia Igbo: Agwa bụ nma’ , Prof Nkechinyere Nwokoye of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka urged the youths to imbibe good behavioural traits. She listed truthfulness, kind heartdness, forgiveness amongst others as traits of good behaviour.

Prof Nwokoye advised the youths to shun drug abuse and avoid any form of misbehaviour

In his remark, the traditional ruler of Umuawulu, Igwe Joel Egwuonwu, frowned at parents who do not speak Igbo language to their children, charging them to retrace their steps.

Competition on essay writing and spelling in Igbo language, cultural dances and presentation of gifts formed high point of the event.

Umeh is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA STUDENTS DECRY TEACHER APATHY, SEEK GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

By Chizoba Njaka :

Despite the Anambra State Government’s commitment to providing free and quality education from nursery to senior secondary school, some teachers’ lackluster attitude undermines this initiatives.

Investigations reveal widespread absenteeism among teachers who attend school solely to clock in, neglecting core subjects like Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics, leaving the students at the mercy of corps members who lack teaching expertise.

In an interview, students from various government schools expressed concern that most often the test given to them in class are not supervised and monitored thus giving room for malpractices and undermining academic integrity.

According to the students, teachers often administer tests, withdraw to the staff room without monitoring or supervision.

They decried the teachers’ abusive language, excessive punishment and overwhelming take home assignments without prior instruction.

The students noted that teachers justify their lax attitude, saying, ”teaching is conscience-driven,’ implying no obligation since students don’t pay fees and there is no more financial motivation.

They urged the state government to establish daily monitoring teams to oversee teacher performance as well as student-teacher relationships as it concerns the core subjects to enable them get the best of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s education policy.

The students expressed gratitude to the state government for promoting education, fostering global parity and prayed for continued wisdom and visionary leadership.

Njaka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA BOOSTS CONNECTIVITY WITH EXPANDED SOLUTION WIFI

By Nwanodu Angela.N :

In alignment with Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of “Everything Technology and Technology Everywhere,” the Anambra State Government has made significant progress in providing free, high-speed internet access across the state through the Solution Wi-Fi Initiative.

This project is part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model that the Soludo administration adopted to drive Anambra’s digital revolution, ensuring that technological advancement benefits every resident.

Launched as a pilot with three strategic locations—Aroma Junction, Book Foundation, and School Gate Ifite—the Solution Wi-Fi Initiative has rapidly expanded, now connecting 14 additional locations across Anambra.

This growth reflects the administration’s commitment to bridging the digital divide, giving students, businesses, and residents greater access to the online resources essential for learning, development, and economic empowerment.

The Solution Wi-Fi Initiative is driven by the Anambra State ICT Agency in collaboration with Pine Heights Systems Limited (PHSWEB).

Through this partnership, the PPP model accelerates digital infrastructure development, empowering Anambra to lead in technology inclusion while optimizing resources and expertise.

As Solution Wi-Fi reaches more locations, connectivity is now available to a broader population.

Governor Soludo’s administration envisions a state where internet access supports innovation, education, and economic growth, reinforcing the belief that digital inclusion is fundamental for social progress.

With each new location connected, the Solution Wi-Fi Initiative brings Anambra closer to a fully connected digital ecosystem. The state government remains committed to extending this network to even more areas, underscoring Governor Soludo’s vision for a tech-savvy state, that provides equitable access to technology and positions its citizens for success in the digital economy.

Together, the Anambra State Government and Pine Heights Systems Limited (PHSWEB) are setting the stage for a future where technology fosters growth, learning, and opportunity, making Anambra a beacon of digital transformation in Nigeria.

Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA GOVT TO COMMISSION KAOLIN PLANT BY JANUARY 2025, SAYS PROF OFOEGBU

By Adaobi Nsofor ;

Umunuko, Ukpor Community in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State is about to get a face-lift following the discovery of Kaolin deposits and installation of Kaolin Processing Plant in their community.

The Managing Director/CEO of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company, Prof.Charles Ofoegbu during his tour to the site to ascertain the progress of the work assured that the project would be delivered and commissioned by Governor Chukwuma Soludo by end of January, 2025.

He noted that the old mill has been fully refurbished, assembled and put in place while they await the arrival of the R3 which has been ordered and will occupy the fourth end of the factory house.

Prof Ofoegbu enumerated that part of the project in course is the installation of the kiln plant also known as kaolin calciner which is now refurbished and reassembled.

“We have mapped out the foundation for the warehouse that will host the kiln and that will commence on Tuesday, and hopefully by weekend, the foundation must have been strong enough to carry the weight and once it is completed, we will start installing the kiln, which would be partly vertical and partly horizontal followed by roofing to have effective cooling”

Prof Ofoegbu added that the next major assignment is to bring in a high tension 300kva transformer and a big generator that can power the equipments in the absence of electricity, saying that environmental issues and health of the workers should be considered while installing the kiln dryer.

He noted that the existing offices would be furnished to house the administrative and engineering staff and the facility is equipped with digital weighing balances for precise measurements and machines for industrial bag zipping.

According to him, 3,000 bags have been produced for kaolin storage. The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) will verify the weight and standards to ensure compliance with international requirements, paving the way for exportation.

On Community Social Responsibility, Prof Ofoegbu promised that they will streetlight and grade the road that leads to the factory, while the health center in the community would be refurbished, which by extension, can serve as referral point for the factory workers in case of emergencies. He also said that some basic drugs would be supplied to the health center and all these is to ensure that the Community benefitted from the project.

While stating that Environmental Impact Assessment is ongoing following best practices, Prof Ofoegbu
emphasised that the huge project would bring about industrialization, development and employment opportunities for the community and neighbouring communities.

Nsofor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAOCHA LGA CHAIRMAN IBEKWE URGES COLLABORATION TO COMBAT INSECURITY

By Chidimma Okoye :

The Chairman of Anaocha Local Government Area, Mr. Rome Ibekwe has urged stakeholders and the public to join forces to combat crime and insecurity.

Speaking at a security summit held at the Neni council secretariat, Ibekwe emphasized the need for collective action against negative narratives that could jeopardize security during the upcoming yuletide season in Anaocha and its surrounding areas.

He praised the Nigerian Police and Anaocha Vigilant for their dedication to security. He also thanked Governor Soludo for construction of Ekwulobia-Nanka-Agulu-Amawbia Road and the dualization of Agulu-Nnobi-Nnewi Road with streetlights.

Ibekwe highlighted other ongoing projects, such as the Agulu Lake tourism initiative, poised to transform Anaocha and Anambra into a premier tourist destination, driving growth and development.

He discussed Anaocha’s key projects: the Mass Transit system and an ultra-modern international market. He emphasized the “Aku-luo-uno” philosophy, fostering public-private partnerships for infrastructure growth and thanked Chief Benson Chinedu Madubuko for empowering over 50 individuals, reducing crime and unemployment.

ACP Albert Dike of the Aguata Area Command
assured the public of their maximum effort with necessary collaborations on ground to bring crime and insecurity to the nearest minimum.

In attendance were members of the Vigilante group of Anaocha, The Nigerian Police, ACP Albert Dike among others.

Okoye is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

AIRCRAFT TO LAND AT NIGHT AT CHINUA ACHEBE AIRPORT AS ANSEC AWARDS KEY CONTRACTS FOR DEVELOPMENT AND SECURITY

In a significant move, the 34th Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) has adopted a series of measures to enhance security and development across the state.

Key Highlights:

1. Enhanced Security Measures: ANSEC has approved both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to tackle insecurity, ensuring a safer environment for all residents.

2. Master Plan for Heritage Sites: A contract worth ₦125,807,290.63 has been awarded to Red Clay Consulting to develop a responsive and commercially viable master plan for Anambra’s heritage sites and tourist attractions.

3. Infrastructure Upgrades:

Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital: The entrance gate will be reconstructed by Triseconds Resources Ltd. for ₦112,700,000:00 with completion expected in two months.

4. College of Nursing Sciences, Isuofia: Additional property clearing and fencing extension will be carried out at a cost of ₦150,692,345.91.

5. Airfield Lighting at Chinua Achebe International Airport: To facilitate night landings, a contract for the airfield lighting project has been awarded to Mercy Aviation Communication Electronics and Industries Nig Ltd. for ₦489,716,250, with a completion timeline of two weeks.

7. Power Supply Enhancements:

– Anambra Mix-Use Industrial City (AMIC), Ogboji: FrankTorch Nig Ltd. will extend the 33 KV line from the Oji-River sub-station for ₦1,742,706,051.91. Zamic Ventures Ltd. will install a dedicated injection sub-station for ₦1,240,500,000.

8. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University College of Medicine: El Bukelz Nig Ltd. will supply and install a 200 KVA/11KV transformer for ₦42,759,372.

9. Naval Base Renovation The Naval Base Complex at Iyiowa Odekpe, Ogbaru, will be renovated by El Bukelz Nig Ltd. for ₦76,244,438.35, with a two-month completion period.

10. Alex Ekwueme Square: Pazim Engineering Ltd will supply and install UV-resistant chairs at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, for ₦715,119,562.50, to be delivered in six weeks.

11. Anambra State Solution Data Platform: Octave Analytics and Insights Ltd will develop this platform for ₦97,087,625.

Signed,

Law Mefor, PhD

Commissioner for Information

November 12, 2024.