Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

RIDERS’ SAFETY AWARENESS PROG: INFORMATION COMMISSIONER MEFOR STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF CAUTION

By Uche Kalu :

Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor has praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s outstanding achievements across all sectors in Anambra State, acknowledging his exceptional performance and urging Ndi Anambra to recognize his efforts. Dr. Mefor highlighted the governor’s commitment to security, particularly during the Yuletide season, ensuring the safety of lives and properties.

Dr. Mefor emphasized the importance of safety during a stakeholders meeting on Rider’s Safety, organized by the Ministry of Transport in Awka. He commended the Transport Commissioner for setting a positive example in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for a solution-driven government.

He stressed that safety should be the top priority, urging tricycle (Keke) and Okada riders to adopt defensive driving practices, exercise patience with other road users, and properly maintain their vehicles to avoid accidents.

Commissioner for Transport, Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike while welcoming stakeholders to the meeting, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to leverage technology in overcoming challenges faced by drivers, particularly tricycle and Okada riders, who play a vital role in reaching remote areas. Emphasizing safety, Mrs. Igwebuike urged these riders to prioritize their well-being and that of their passengers.

Mrs. Igwebuike shared insights from her visit to Orumbanasa in Anambra West LGA, where Keke and Okada are the primary modes of transportation, underscoring the significance of these riders in the transportation ecosystem. “By supporting their development and providing resources, the ministry aims to enhance the overall transportation experience,”she noted

Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Security, Mr. JohnChris Chigbo who announced that the state government has initiated measures to bolster security in the transport sector, stressed the crucial role of Rider’s Permits, encouraging all riders to obtain one as a vital security safeguard. “Possessing this permit, riders not only ensure their own safety but also contribute to the overall security of the transportation system,” Chigbo stated.

The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Anambra State Command, Joyce Alexander represented by Mr. Mogbo Oderah, emphasized the importance of utilizing side view mirrors to prevent avoidable road crashes. He attributed the causes of accidents to environmental and human. However, he stressed that human factors are the most prevalent causes of road accidents.

Ambassador Fidelis Nnadi, a renowned consultant on motor-related trade and services, expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of accidents involving keke and okada. He reiterated the crucial importance of safety and security, urging drivers to utilize their side mirrors effectively to prevent accidents and ensure their well-being.

Mr. Chris Okeke, Head of Operations Department, underlined the importance of the Rider’s Permit, a security document issued by the Ministry of Transport through the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) or Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO). This permit contains vital information about the owner, protecting them from security harassment.

To ensure safety, Okeke outlined key regulations for tricycle operations which included; two side view mirrors, front and rear headlamps, trafficators and brakelights, warning that no tricycle should install and use roof racks, extra lights, inappropriate horn, cross bars or any other artificial constructions and installations while in operation.

“Every driver must attain 18 years of age to be issued Rider’s Permit and the permit will no longer be issued to individuals beyond 70 years of age. Delivery riders are not meant to carry passengers except their box and must wear crash helmet, dress properly with their reflective jacket, company insignia as well as code.”

One of the participants, Mr. Emmanuel John Miracle expressed gratitude to the organizers and suggested that future gatherings include other security agencies to educate them on effective interactions with riders.

The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the banking sector, ARS, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), insurance companies, and other relevant organizations.

NEW YAM FESTIVAL 2024: ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT SET TO SHOWCASE IGBO UNIQUE CULTURAL HERITAGE

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

Anambra State Government under the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism and the Ministry of Local Government, Communities and Chieftaincy Affairs are set to host the 2024 New Yam Festival on the 9th of November at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka beginning by 11:00 am. The event aims to showcase the unique and prestigious cultural heritage of the Igbo people to the world.

The Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji said this in an interview session in his office at Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka.

He stated that the festival is the second edition of the present administration, aiming to bring Ndi Anambra as people and family to get together and celebrate the significance of yam which is a traditional cultural event the Igbos are known for.

“As at this time, families, villages, communities and even some Anambra indigenes in the diaspora have celebrated their new yam festival and now, it is time for the state to celebrate with the Governor, Prof Charles Soludo, alongside Traditional Rulers, President Generals, Members of the State Executive Council, Legislatures, Judiciary, the Local Government and the people.”

Mr. Onyenji stated that the festival will enhance socio-economic activities, promote tourism, provide opportunities for relaxation and fun, and foster peace and unity through the numerous side attractions that will be featured.

“There will be a competition to ascertain the biggest yam cultivated in 2024 and the winner of the competition will go home with a cash reward of one million naira courtesy of Mr. Governor,” he said.

The 2024 New Yam Festival will feature the traditional cutting and eating of the roasted yam, masquerade display, local government parades, various cultural dancers and others.

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

ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY COMMENDS SOLUDO FOR EXTENDING FREE EDUCATION POLICY TO SENIOR STUDENTS, PASSES MTEF REPORT

By Chizoba Okeke :

Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a resolution commending Governor Chukwuma Soludo for extending free educational policy to Senior Secondary School students in the state public schools.

The resolution was passed following a motion moved by the member representing Aguata Constituency One, Mr Anayo Okpaleke and Chairman House committee on Education.

The Speaker, Mr Somtoo Udeze who presided over plenary read out the resolution and the lawmakers unanimously adopted it through voice vote.

In his submissions, Okpaleke noted that Governor Soludo had earlier granted free education from Nursery, Primary and Junior Secondary Schools (JSS 3) to pupils and students of all State Public Schools and also extended the same to Senior Secondary School Students in Public Schools.

He reiterated that access to quality education equips beneficiaries with the necessary tools to excel and take their destinies into their hand, thereby ensuring effective use of their talents for all round development and progress.

He further explained the governor’s free education policy has now opened windows of opportunities as evidenced by the upsurge in school enrolment of pupils and students in the state public schools, breaking the cycle of social and economic barriers as well as poverty.

In support of the motion, the member representing Aguata Constituency Two, Chief Tony Muobike, his Ogbaru Constituency One counterpart, Noble Igwe and the Deputy Majority Leader, Dr. Jude Akpua, expressed their approval of the governor’s initiative, saying it has brought positive revolution to the state

Similarly, the House passed the report of the House Committee On Finance and Appropriation on the 2025-2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), Economic and Fiscal Update (EFU), Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) and Budget Policy Statement (BPS) document.

The documents outline the state’s fiscal plans, economic outlook, and budgetary goals for the next three years and sets a strategic foundation for sustainable growth and responsible budgeting.

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

GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S WIFE NONYE VISITS FLOOD-DISPLACED PERSONS IN OGBARU

By Ikwuanusi Azuka/ Okeke Anthonia Chioma :

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo has visited the flood displaced persons’ camp at Odekpe Central School in Ogbaru LGA.

Addressing the flood victims which included; men, women and children, the governor’s wife sympathized with them on the extent of damage caused by the flood disaster, assured them of positive response from the state government.

She emphasized on the importance of maintaining good cleanliness and healthy living in the camp.

While donating some food items, disinfectants, toiletries and cash to the flood victims, Mrs Soludo pleaded with the good spirited individuals and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to come to the aid of those affected by flood in the state.

The Regional Representative, World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Chukwumuanya Igbokwe promised to set up mobile clinic in the camp, in order to give the victims proper medical care/ attention. He thanked the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his fatherly love to Ndi Anambra.

The Deputy Mayor of Ogbaru Local Government Area, Mr Kenneth Akuegbe expressed his heart felt gratitude to the governor. He also commended the effort of the wife of the state government in supporting the helpless individuals.

He further pleaded for the provision of mattresses and blankets to keep the victims safe from sicknesses.

* kwuanusi and Okeke are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

ONITSHA SOUTH LG CHAIRMAN CONGRATULATES SOLUDO AS HE EMERGES FISCAL PRUDENCE GOVERNOR

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government Area and Soludo National Convener for 2025, Sir Emeka Orji, Oba Armani, has congratulated the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, as he emerged the most fiscal Governor in Nigeria.

The Onitsha Mayor said that it was not a surprise to him because the governor has maintained trajectory and pedigree in utilizing public funds even when he was the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

In 2005 and the subsequent years (2006 and 2007) Soludo was recognized as the global winner and the best African Governor of Central Bank.

In less than three years of Soludo’s administration, he has shown a commitment to prudent fiscal management, resulting in the state’s inclusion in the fiscal performance for the first time, and applauded the Governor for utilizing Ndi Anambra money in the right direction.

In a related development, Anambra State ranked among the top five best fiscal performers in the country in the Budget 2023 Fiscal Transparency Index publication and rose to third position in the same ranking in 2024.

“Prof. Soludo is the only Governor that equates input of public office holders with their output; thereby reducing the wastage in governance”, Orji posited.

*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

FACEBOOK LIVE: DEPUTY GOVERNOR IBEZIM ASSURES REDUCED INSECURITY

By Chisom Okpala :

Anambra State Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim has stated that the state security network is a work in progress, that insecurity in Anambra has been reduced to its barest minimum.

He made this known during an online discussion tagged ‘Youth Speak’, where some where pressing state issues like security, kidnapping, flooding, inadequate electricity, and vandalism of government properties were tackled. He emphasized the urgent need for collective action against insecurity.

Dr Ibezim urged individuals, community leaders, and security agencies to join forces with the state government to combat insecurity and ensure public safety.

He urged Ndi Anambra to always take ownership of whatever development that the state government has put in their domain.

On the issue of kidnapping, Dr Ibezim advised that the slogan, ‘If you see something, say something’ should be widely practiced in the state, that people should make it a habit to know their neighbours and what they do for a living.

He warned those vandalizing government properties to desist from doing so, as it was reported that pipe-borne water equipments in some areas are been vandalized, stressing that those into such practices are enemies of progress and when caught would be severely punished.

“The administration has consistently made its accomplishments transparent and listened to the people to incorporate their needs into its plans.

“We’re committed to empowering individuals, particularly youths, to grow their businesses, acquire new skills, and thrive. Our government prioritizes youth development, ensuring opportunities for all, he stated.

Dr Ibezim further stated that the Facebook live is a medium for him to engage and educate the people on government activities as part of his statutory obligations, promised that the live session comes up every Friday by 8pm – 10pm.

Okpala is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA GOVERNOR’S WIFE SUPPORTS FLOOD DISPLACED PERSONS IN UMUOBA-ANAM

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has shown her support for flood-displaced individuals in Umuoba-Anam by providing foodstuffs and cash donations.

During her visit to Unity Primary School, which currently shelters about 1,000 displaced individuals, primarily women and children, Mrs. Soludo emphasized the need for stakeholders and community involvement in aiding those affected by the disaster.

She highlighted the government’s concern for the displaced persons’ wellbeing, particularly regarding health and hygiene standards in the camp, urging camp managers to ensure proper dietary practices and maintain safety protocols.

During the visit, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, WHO’s South East Zonal Coordinator, pledged collaboration with the state government to establish a mobile clinic in the camp to address medical needs.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, confirmed ongoing medical support for those in the camp and praised the governor’s wife’s timely visit.

The Anambra East Local Government Chairman, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Chinweze acknowledged the government’s efforts in supporting the camp’s daily needs and commended Mrs. Soludo for her commitment.

Accompanied in the visit were Engr Julius Chukwuemeka, Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, alongside WHO team.

*Chukwudi is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA LAWMAKER COMMISSIONS HEALTHCARE CENTRES IN ONITSHA NORTH 1 CONSTITUENCY

By Chizoba Okeke :

The member representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency , Hon. Justice Azuka has commissioned two functional healthcare centres in Onitsha North 1, saying that it is his way of showing commitment to the well-being of his constituents.

He explained that the first healthcare centre is located at immanuel Anglican Church, Onitsha and the second at Osuma all in Onitsha North1, fully equipped with modern facilities to provide quality healthcare services to the people of Onitsha North 1 Constituency.

Azuka, while commissioning the centers, emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare in improving the lives of citizens. He reiterated his dedication to improving the welfare of his constituents and ensuring they receive quality services.

Furthermore, the commissioning ceremony was attended by community leaders, healthcare professionals, and constituents who commended his efforts in addressing the healthcare needs of the community.

The lawmaker also Shared Tubers of Yam to his Constituents at his constituency office at Savoy road Onitsha, Anambra State, reaffirming his dedication to the welfare of his constituents, emphasizing that their well-being remains his top priority.

He said,”It’s a gesture of kindness and appreciation to his constituents at the eight wards that make up Onitsha North 1 using his six month’s salary as he promised earlier.

The Constituents thanked the lawmaker for his kindness, noting that the gesture would go a long way in alleviating the financial burden on many families.

Mr Eugene Emembo, one of his constituents commended the lawmaker. “This shows his commitment to the development of Onitsha North 1 Constituency and his resolve to ensure that his constituents have access to basic amenities”.

Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

INSECURITY: ANAMBRA MARKET CHAIRMAN URGES SOLUDO TO BEEF UP SECURITY

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The President General of Building Materials International Market Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State, Chief Jude Nwankwo, weekend urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to beef up security aimed at curtailing the incessant crimes in the state.

Chief Nwankwo who made the urge stressed the need for equipping traditional rulers, Presidents General and others who know their terrains with a view to make the state livable.

“It is of prime importance to equip the Igwes, PGs, market leaders to fight crime in their respective communities as all communities know the bad eggs among them.

“Security is too costly to be maintained but our government needs to sit up, add more money to security. Soludo is an economist and he manages the state’s resources judiciously which resulted in all the infrastructural development in the state.

“Let him equip the Communities, Igwes, PGs, so that they would be held responsible if anything happens in their respective communities, this cult issues must be eliminated, they must be exposed.

“What is happening now requires non kinetic approach, it is unacceptable, the security agents need to fight crime, solar CCTVs are supposed to be installed in all the markets in the state. These are ways to follow to curtail all these crimes in the state,” he stated.

Speaking further, Nwankwo who is the ASMATA Patron, commended the governor for his efforts in making sure that businesses, markets open on Mondays, noting that he has the interest of the masses at heart saying, ” You can’t fend for yourself while staying at home”.

He said traders fear unknown gunmen who claim to be protesting against the detention of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kalu, saying that they cannot be attributed to Nnamdi Kalu as their actions and inactions portray them as criminals who kill and maim people.

“Traders are ready to go back to businesses on mondays but whenever it seems the business is gradually reopening, they come with threats, doing one thing or the other to show their presence.

“Gov. Charles Soludo in his protest for the release of the IPOB leader had visited President Buhari but at the end of the day, he wasn’t released.

“The lasting solution for this release of the IPOB leader is for all the Eastern Governors, House of Representatives in Igbo land to come together with sincerity, go to Aso Rock and protest for the release of Mazi Kalu, I think there is no other way.”

According to him, As soon as he is released, people would come out for their businesses, the truth is that even if we open now, you know most markets in Onitsha and environs mostly deal in wholesales and are being patronized by people from outside the state: Abuja, Kaduna, Cameruon, Togo, among others.

“With these threats and all that, the outsiders would not come on Mondays to patronize us, and when you open without anyone patronizing you, you would be discouraged to come out again unlike Awka, Enugu who deal in retails, they have their customers around them,” Nwankwo further explained.

*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ELIGIBLE CHILDREN TO RECEIVE MEASLES VACCINATION AS ANAMBRA FLAGS-OFF CAMPAIGN

By Nnedinma Okeke :

The Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners has flagged-off the Intergrated Measles vaccination campaign in the State.

The flag-off ceremony held at Okpuno Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Awka South Local Government Area (LGA) marked the commencement of Measles vaccination in the State which would kick start from November 6 to 12, 2024.

The Commissioner, SMOH, Dr Afam Obidike during his remarks at the flag-off ceremony urged Ndi Anambra and people living in the state to ensure that their eligible children of nine to 59 months were vaccinated, thus, protected from the Measles disease.

He noted that aside the opportunity which the campaign gives, immunization services were always available at health facilities across the State and were given free of charge.

Dr. Obidike urged people not to be scared of any Adverse Effects Following Immunization (AEFI) as WHO and other partners had aided in developing adverse effects management with healthcare workers trained for the purpose.

The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem emphasized that immunization services, ante-natal care and delivery services were free in government health facilities. She urged people to always make a report whenever they were charged for any of the aforementioned services.

She noted that vaccines were key in the fight against preventable diseases and urged mothers/caregivers to utilise the campaign opportunity and ensure that their children aged nine to 59 months were vaccinated with the Measles vaccine.

The WHO South East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, congratulated the government and people of the state for their commitment toward the flag-off ceremony and commencement of the vaccination exercise in the state.

“The flag-off exercise is the beginning of a week long activity in searching for eligible children to vaccinate them with not just Measles vaccine, but also other Routine Immunization (RI) vaccines.

He, on behalf of WHO and other supporting Partners, expressed gratitude to the Anambra Health Commissioner, Executive Secretary and ASPHCDA team for the extra ordinary efforts in enabling the flag-off to hold which made way for the commencement of vaccination exercise in the State.

“The Measles campaign is the promotion of primary healthcare which is the foundation of a strong health system and the most viable partway for health security and Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It is a pathway to achieve the sustainable development goals.

“Our witness here today, is a tripartite partnership between the community, the Government, and the development Partners.

“We commit that WHO and her sister Partners: UNICEF, NPHCDA, AFENET, and CHAI would continue to support the Government of Anambra State in immunization, primary healthcare, and other health systems strengthening to attain the highest level of health in the State,” Dr Igboekwu said.

The NPHCDA Anambra State Coordinator, Mr Obioha Agbakwuru represented by NPHCDA ZTO, Mr Mcdonald Ugwu noted that the event which marks a significant milestone in collective efforts toward protection of children/communities, is commitment toward improving health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations.

He commended the ASPHCDA, SMOH and supporting partners for their tireless efforts in making the campaign a reality whilst urging parents/caregivers to ensure their children/wards were vaccinated as together Anambra State and Nigeria at large can be made measles-free.

The event featured health talks and sensitization from the State Health Educator (SHE)- Mrs Uju Onwuegbuzina, State Immunization Officer (SIO)- Mrs Edith Onwuka and the Breastfeeding Coordinator- Mrs Ngozi Onoh.

In attendance at the event includes: the Director, Disease Control and Immunization, ASPHCDA, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi, WHO Anambra State Coordinator, Dr Bonos Mohammed, ASPHCDA team, Representatives of NPHCDA, WHO, UNICEF, CHAI, and AFENET.

Also, the Traditional Ruler of Okpuno Community, Igwe Engr Sunday I Okafor, and Mayor Awka South LGA, Prince Chinedu Okafor represented by Supervisory Councillor for Health, Awka South LGA, Mr Frank Ajezu.

*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State