A town hall meeting to mark the 2024 Ember Months Campaign flag-off was organized by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Sector Command in Awka.
Gov. Chukwuma Soludo represented by the State Deputy Governor, Dr. OnyekaChukwu Ibezim noted that it is the duty of the government to protect lives and property in the state, which according to him aligns with the topic of discussion.
The governor encouraged passengers to always speak up against any dangerous driving and cautioned drivers on the implications of reckless driving.
“Over speeding can be fatal and always remember that speed limits are in place to protect everyone on the road especially this Christmas season.”
He commended FRSC Awka for the efforts toward reducing accidents and maintaining safety on the road, hinting that the massive road infrastructural development witnessed in the state would help ensure smooth ride round the state this ember months and beyond.
Speaking, the Anambra State FRSC Sector Commander, Mrs Joyce Alexander said that this year’s theme, “Speak up against dangerous driving: Crashes kill more passengers than drivers” is to encourage passengers to always call out drivers as well as report any reckless driving for their own safety.
She emphasized that the command is committed in ensuring safety on roads across the state, stressing that over 1 Million lives were lost annually to road accidents globally.
The Anambra Sector Commander, then, called on state government, stakeholders and other counterpart agencies for more support in safeguarding lives on the state roads.
*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
A Thirteen Man Committee has been set up by the Anambra State Government to look into the lingering crisis in Ogwuaniocha, a community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state, which led to loss of lives and destruction of properties.
The Chairman of the Committee, Justice C K Anigbogu(Rtd) said that the state government wants to find out exactly what caused the problem, the consequences and the implications on both the wider and smaller scale, profer remedies so that Ogwuaniocha would be peaceful once more, and the foundation for overall peace in Anambra State through that process can be achieved.
“We want to present the situation the way it is without any colouration, and we can say that so far, the members of the community have been very coperative as there’s no incidence of antagonism throughout the proceedings”
“They have submitted their memoranda and have asked themselves very critical and crucial questions and given honest answers and we commend them for that approach because that’s the only thing that would bring peace, and that is why we still asked them as a community to maintain peace and avoid any kind of provocative approach to issues that may inflame passions,” Justice Anigbogu added.
He mentioned that so far, the community have acquitted themselves creditably in their presentations, comported themselves and came out openly to say some few home truths, and urged them to continue in that spirit, even as they still expect some number of people who would appear before the panel of inquiry.
He encouraged them to come and bare their minds to enable the committee to access the situation, which at the end of the day, will collate all the information and make their suggestions known to the state government.
While appealing to them especially those who lost their persons or properties destroyed to exercise patience as the government wants to address the issue holistically, he admonished the community to avoid provocative language, utterances and things that might hurt.
He further enjoined the community, and the youths to sheath their sword and see themselves as brothers where everybody will have the collective responsibility of protecting the community and the rich natural resources so it will be of benefit to the community and the state at large.
Mosignor Theophilus Odukwe and the Traditional ruler of Osomala, Igwe Victor Awogu in their separate speeches, advised the Ogwuaniocha community to come together and embrace peace as that would bring about unity and development they desire.
Members of the Committee of Panel of Inquiry included; Hon Justice CK Anigbogu, Prof. Felicitate Anyogu, Patricia Igwebuike (Esq), Gen. Laz Iloh;
Mosignor Theophilus Odukwe, Ven Dr. Chinedu Nnatuanya, Prof. Charles O. Ofoegbu.
Others were; Prof. Ikenna Alumona, Mr Benjamin Uzoka, Chief Emma Obi, Prof. Charles Nwadigwe;
HRH Victor Awogu and Comrade Emeka Okoye-Ozo.
* Nsofor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr Julius Chukwuemeka, Prof Barth Nnaji and Mr Valentine Ozigbo were among those honoured by the Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka for contributions on Green Energy during the faculty’s 2024 International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Smart Agriculture for national development.
Speaking at the conference, Engr. Chukwuemeka noted that Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s love in creating green energy solution in the state which is eco friendly and cost effective, has been seen in the conversion of former diesel powered streetlights to solar system, installation of solar system at the state secretariat, state high courts, all the correctional centers in the state, 21 local government secretariat among others which now serve as alternative source of power supply, ensuring 24/7 power supply in the areas.
He said that all the water schemes (facilities) being built by the state government, have solar system as their primary source of power which enabled constant water supply to residents of the state.
Aside the partnership via MoU between the state government and Enugwu Electricity Distribution Company(EEDC) aimed at manufacturing of prepaid metres in the state, Mr commissioner noted that the state government is ever ready to partner with the Engineering faculty to enhance power generation and distribution to Ndi Anambra.
*Azuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Anambra State Eye Care Center, a pioneering initiative of the state government in partnership with the Nise community has recorded remarkable success in its 18-month existence.
As the first specialist eye care and referral center in the state, it has provided critical eye care services to over 2,500 patients and performed 30 life-changing surgeries.
According to Dr Ikenna Mbakigwe, Chief Opthamologist, “Our center offers comprehensive eye care services, diagnosing and treating various eye disorders, including allergic eye disorders, dry eye disease, refractive errors, hypertensive and diabetic eye disorders, glaucoma care, cataract eye surgeries, and ocular surface surgeries.
“The center boasts a team of two ophthalmologists, one chief optometrist, optometrist interns, nurses, and support staff. However, despite its achievements, the center faces significant challenges including; lack of solar energy for constant power supply and water supply hinders our operations, he noted.
He emphasised the importance of staff training particularly ophthalmic nurses for quality eye care services
‘ ‘We also require training for our ophthalmologists and optometrists in the latest eye care practices.
The center requires high-tech equipment to provide optimal specialist eye care.
He commended the state government’s initiative to reduce blindness and visual impairment in the state, appealing for support to equip the center with high-tech equipment and training for optimal care.
Dr Mbakigwe pledged the commitment of staff to providing top-notch eye care services, bridging the gap in eye health care in the state.
* Egoh is of the Ministry of Information ,Anambra State *
Anambra State Head of Service, Lady Theodora Okwy Igwegbe has called on workers to show more dedication in rendering service to the people of Anambra State.
This call came during an interactive session between the Head of Service, and the press in her office at the Jerome Udorji Secretariat Complex, Awka concerning the new minimum wage implementation.
While speaking, the Civil Service boss called on workers to realize that the implementation points to the fact that the Anambra State Governor has their welfare at heart and expects reciprocation from them through commitment to duty.
Igwegbe thanked the labour leaders for the maturity shown throughout the period of consultations and considerations prior to the payment of the new minimum wage.
Lady Igwegbe also thanked the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo for being quick in the implementation of the new Minimum Wage Act 2024.
The foremost Civil Servant while praising the governor, expressed utmost gratitude and assured him of the workers’ support and their resolve to put in their best at all times.
* Chukwuma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Anambra State Gaming Bill 2024, which seeks to regulate promotional lotteries, lotto, casinos, online sports betting, raffles and the likes operations in the state and connected purposes has passed second reading.
Sponsored by the Majority Leader and representative of Ekwusigo Constituency, Sir. Ikenna Ofodeme, the bill aimed to establish a structured and legal framework for gaming and betting operations across the state.
Leading the debate, Hon. Ofodeme emphasized that the bill is essential to boost the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state and address numerous social challenges linked to unregulated gaming.
He noted that many gaming activities in the state often lack oversight, leading to conflicts, and violent confrontations, between participants.
The Majority Leader said the bill will mandate that every gaming center operating within the state must register with the appropriate authorities and renew their licenses annually.
The bill was supported by the member, representing Aguata Constituency 1, Hon. Anayo Okpaleke, his Anambra East counterpart, Barr. Obi Nweke and the member representing Orumba South Constituency, Engr Emma Nwafor, others.
The Speaker, Rt Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, read the bill for the second time and was unamiously adopted through voice votes.
*Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
In fulfilment of the promise to Ndị Anambra by Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, to provide Commissioners and Heads of Government Agencies on the weekly program to expose the good works of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the Commissioner of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Comrade Don Onyenji, featured in this week’s edition of the radio program, ‘Ask the Commissioner,’ at Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Awka, along with the Commissioner for Information.
Comrade Onyenji, who used the opportunity to promote the 2024 Anambra New Yam Festival, which will be held on Saturday, described New Yam Festival as the number one festival in Igboland, traced to many centuries of history and meant to renew relationships between individuals and communities, among others, adding that it brings people back home, encourages unity and enhances the culture and tradition of communities and Igbo land.
According to him, this year’s ceremony will combine the New Yam and Mmanwu Festivals, and there will be ‘Di Ji’ prizes for the biggest yam tubers produced in Anambra.
He recalled that last year, the governor gave N1 million to the producer of the biggest yam, adding that all the LGAs in the state are expected to attend with at least one masquerade.
He disclosed that his ministry has the list of all the masquerades in Anambra State and is promoting the use of the Igbo language. He also commended Mr Governor for promoting culture through dressing in Akwaete and wearing made-in Anambra shoes.
The Culture Commissioner also commended the Information Commissioner, Dr Mefor, for promoting culture through the use of the Igbo red cap and commended the Governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo, for encouraging people to patronise homemade foods instead of synthetic foods.
Onyenji, who regretted the lavish style of burials in Igboland, equally frowned at the attitude of undertakers who abuse corpses, urging them to desist from it.
He called on mothers to teach their children how to cook Igbo foods and charged children to embrace the tradition of greeting elders each time they come across them.
In the area of tourism, he emphasised that tourism goes beyond the many newly constructed roads, schools, etc., pointing out that with the Solution Fun City, which is expected to be the biggest in this part of the country and beyond, Anambra will be the talk of the town.
He disclosed that Anambra leads in filmmaking in the country, adding that the state intends to return the prestigious ANAWOOD to enable Anambra to take its rightful place in the film industry.
The Commissioner commended Mr Governor for awarding the dual carriageway from Amawbia to Ekwulobia and Nwagu Agulu to Okija, which he said was part of tourism.
Dr. Mefor, in his contributions, urged Ndị Anambra to come out en masse for this year’s Anambra New Yam Festival.
Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, Enugu State was on November 2, thrown agog as Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l, special invitees, friends and well-wishers stormed the arena to support three of their own who received meritorious awards from the Anambra State People in Enugu (ASPE).
The event, which took place during the ASPE 2024 Anambra Day cum Iwa Ji festival, was well attended by dignitaries including Ndi Igwe, HRM Iyom Theodora Oliobi, Nze na Ozo, Celebrities and Royal Golden Boys.
Princess Dr Jessie Ifeoma Udoka-Menuba, Founder/CEO Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l and Patroness of Anambra State People in Enugu, said that she sponsored the Awards in recognition of the trios doggedness, diligence, consistency, honesty and integrity in lifting the Foundation higher.
She said,”Virtues are positively rewarded and vices negatively rewarded. I urge all to good at all times because it is good to be good”.
According to her, I’m delighted seeing people happy and through giving, we build lives and legacies that endure.
Princess Udoka-Menuba, wife of Air Commodore Ify Udoka-Menuba (rtd) from Oguluwa family, Amawbia, Awka South LGA, is the only sister of Igwe Maximus Oliobi, Owelle Nimo Kingdom, Njikoka LGA, Anambra State.
Mrs Regina Igwebuike was given Journalism Personality Award of the Year for objective reportage, using her journalism profession to bring succour to the needy in the society.
Barr. Michael Ugochukwu Okoye, Coordinator of Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l in Nigeria was conferred with Great Humanity Award in recognition of his love and service to humanity.
Another Awardee, Mrs Bridget Chinwe Okonkwo received Community Development Award in recognition of her selfless sacrifices for the good and welfare of the society.
The award recipients in their respective speeches, thanked the Princess for finding them worthy of the awards, praying God to continue to bless, keep, protect her and family even as they prayed for more resources to enable her to continue the good work, touching lives in ways that matters.
In an interview, Nze Emma Nwokoye (Ezeudo), said, “The idea of organizing such event is very good and I can see that the Princess is part and parcel of the event. She sponsored the whole thing, showcasing Anambra people in another State. Anambra is number one by the Princess.
“I’m highly impressed personally in the sense that somebody is bringing out her resources to sponsor this kind of event. This event is going to be very big in future because I think it’s the first of its kind in Enugu now. As times go on, Princess will be known as one of the greatest philanthropist in Igbo land and Eastern Region. There are some Igwes that came through her, infact, Princess Udoka-Menuba is doing great, projecting Amawbia everywhere, very interesting.
“I’m wishing her strong, energetic long life and prosperity. I’m looking to seeing her physically one day to celebrate her, giving her back what she has been doing for us, like honoring her during Eziokpaligwe festival because she has done great, helping a lot of widows and indigents. It was when I started attending her event that I knew that something like that is happening in Amawbia.
Engr. Damian Igwebuike said that he was live at Michael Okpara Square and witnessed the wonderful occasion of Anambra Day/Iwa Ji 2024 celebrated by the Anambra people, commending them for organizing such occasion.
He extolled Princess Udoka-Menuba for sponsoring the Award conferred on his sister-in-law, Mrs Regina Igwebuike and other Awardees. “I praise the Princess for her philanthropy, especially in the areas of sponsoring scholarship awards to indigent people and her kind gestures in human capital development, and I pray God to continue blessing her and those that graced the event.
*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Anambra State Governor’s Wife, Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo, has distributed starter packs to 12 youths who have completed training in equipment fabrication under the Value Chain Development Programme.
Additionally, she flagged off the distribution of agricultural processing equipment, machinery, and open-body tricycles aimed at supporting the productivity of rice and cassava farmers, especially women’s farming cooperatives.
The initiative is part of the State’s Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), a decade-old scheme focused on supporting rice and cassava farmers.
VCDP has been instrumental in enhancing food production, modernizing agricultural processes, and creating market opportunities.
Mrs. Soludo emphasized the program’s achievements in fostering improved processing facilities, noting that such investments benefit vulnerable groups and bolster Anambra’s agricultural landscape.
In line with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s “1 Youth, 2 Skills” agenda, this year’s cohort marks an ongoing effort to combat youth unemployment through skill development.
Mrs. Soludo announced plans to train 20 more youths in 2025, reinforcing the government’s commitment to job creation.
The newly distributed tricycles, she highlighted, will support farmers in transporting their goods to market efficiently, thereby reducing production costs and expanding market reach.
Mrs. Soludo urged recipients to utilize the resources responsibly to elevate their livelihoods, stressing that these tools are meant to benefit communities rather than being sold.
The distribution underscored the administration’s dedication to advancing Anambra’s agricultural sector and strengthening local economies through strategic empowerment initiatives.
She officially declared the distribution open, expressing optimism for the program’s continued success and impact on the lives of Anambra’s farmers and youth.
In an address, the State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor described the event as a manifestation of the shared mission to drive Mechanisation, enhance productivity and improve the livelihoods of small holder farmers.
While urging the beneficiaries to take pride in what they have achieved, he emphasized the need for even more accomplishments.
“Your role is pivotal in building an Anambra where agriculture is not only a means of livelihood but also a vehicle for economic transformation”
Earlier, the Acting State Programme Coordinator, Anambra State Value Chain Development Programme, Dr Mrs Debby Onyefulu, said the programme in collaboration with federal government and IFAD had been instrumental in transforming rice and cassava farming across the state.
“With this support,we are enhancing our farmers capacity for improved production and access to markets.
“The distribution of processing equipment to women’s groups, tricycles for the Commodity Agricultural Forum Members and training in nutrition sensitive agriculture,ball reflect our holistic approach to agricultural sector and economic development”
*Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Anambra State Government in collaboration with African Development Bank (AFDB) is set to deliver intervention projects worth $100Million in the agricultural /industrial sectors across the state.
The projects comprising of Agricultural Transformation Centres and Special Agro Processing Zone are aimed to unlock the huge agricultural potentials in production of rice, sorghum, maize, yam among others.
The Managing Director, Anambra State Investment Promotion And Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), Mr Mark Okoye, made the disclosure during an engagement meeting with a delegation from African Development Bank in his office.
According to him, the state government decided to adopt a coordinated approach to collaborating with the bank as well as private sector led by Arise and Coscharis Groups to implement the project.
While illustrating vital components of the Projects master plan including the Anambra Mixed Use Industrial City(AMIC),he expressed hope that the strategic partnership and commitment would solve problems, open up opportunities and boost the state’s economic growth.
He, then, used the occasion to invite the bank to the launch of 2nd Anambra Investment Summit slated to hold on Nov. 14, 2024 at the International Conference Centre, Awka.
The ANSIPPA Boss noted that the event would feature expression of interest on industrial infrastructure, pointing out that over 800 investors had registered online to participate.
Earlier, the Chief Agro-Industry Officer, African Development Bank, Mr Chukwuma Ezedinma, said that the state was selected for the project based on a very strong private sector interest and good feasibility study.
“Now, the Special Agro Processing Zone has the Agro Industrial Hub, Agricultural Transformation Centres and Aggregation Centres. We are more interested in Agro Industrial Hub and the Agricultural Transformation Centres.
He added that they were in the state to discuss in details what was presented in the feasibility study and to confirm details concerning the project implementing unit, steering committee and technical committee.
“We also want to know details about the Resettlement Action Plan, Stakeholders Engagement Plan and Livelihood Restoration Plan.
A Member of the team who doubles as the Senior Rural Infrastructural Engineer, AFDB, Mr Bashir Ibrahim Gaya, emphasized the pivotal role of the bank in fostering sustainable growth and affirmed its commitment to also offer technical assistance.
The state government was represented by the Commissioners for Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, Commissioner For Industry, Mr Christian Udechukwu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka, while Mr Chinedu Obieri represented Coscharis Group.
*Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
