Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

ALL HALLOWS SEMINARY CELEBRATES 100 YEARS AMIDST CULTURAL DISPLAYS

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

All Hallows Seminary, Onitsha on November 1st, 2024 marked 100 years of existence with cultural displays.

The Rector, Rev. Fr. Paschal Onunkwo, emphasized the importance of cultural heritage during the centenary celebration. According to him, “Culture can never go into extinction. As an institution training future priests, we recognize that culture is an integral part of life.

“Effective evangelization requires speaking the language of the people. At All Hallows Seminary, we recognize the power of culture in shaping our message. By integrating cultural understanding into our formation, we ensure that the Gospel takes root. This approach enables our future priests to connect with their communities on a deeper level.”

The Rector who noted that he came to the institution in 2021, recounted his achievements which included; human formation, structural developments, renovations of buildings, reconstruction of dilapidated school road, which he said was done about 45 years ago.

“Mounting of new school gate to replace the old one which was 72 years old, renovation of father’s house by the old boys, excellent in academic pursuit, wonderful WAEC results, other external exams, music and other milestone achievements.

“Reaching 100 years of existence is a testament to God’s favor and grace. We are blessed to witness this milestone in our lifetime. As we celebrate this achievement, we honor our esteemed alumni – priests and laymen alike – whose remarkable contributions to society inspire us.

“Their accomplishments fill us with gratitude, motivating us to continue nurturing individuals of substance who will positively impact the world. This centenary marks two significant milestones: the school’s coming of age and a century of steadfast commitment.

“We acknowledge the tireless efforts of past and present individuals who have made All Hallows Seminary a beacon of excellence. May this celebration foster gratitude to God and appreciation for the dedicated community that has shaped our institution.

“During our centenary celebration, we honored individuals and groups whose tireless efforts have defined our institution’s 100-year journey.

“The Catholic Women Organization, CWO who contribute food to feed the seminarians and subsidized the school fees and make the seminary affordable for the rich and the poor,” he maintained.

The event featured the Labour Party Presidential candidate at the just concluded presidential election, Mr Peter Obi.

Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NNEWI NORTH INDIGENES ENROLLS INTO ASHIA THROUGH ITS ADOPTION MODEL

By Chisom Okafor :

No fewer than 200 indigenes from Nnewi North LGA, have been enrolled into the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) through its adoption model, funded by Mr. Oliver Okonkwo.

The enrollment event was held at Umuzu village hall in Nnewi, where ASHIA representatives organized a sensitization session to educate beneficiaries about the program’s benefits and processes. Mrs. Antonia Okoli, speaking on behalf of ASHIA, explained that the health insurance scheme would provide beneficiaries with access to healthcare services across multiple hospitals without financial strain.

She stressed that the agency’s network of accredited hospitals would allow enrollees to choose the medical facilities best suited to their needs, ensuring that quality healthcare is both accessible and affordable.

Mr. Okonkwo, in his address to the community, expressed gratitude to the ASHIA team for facilitating the enrollment process and educating the beneficiaries. He emphasized that health insurance is a critical need, especially given the high costs of healthcare that can be financially burdensome for individuals and families.

He urged the community members to prioritize their health by seeking professional medical attention instead of self-medication or consulting unqualified practitioners, practices that are often prevalent due to lack of access to proper healthcare.

The beneficiaries, including Mrs. Gloria Muojekwu and Mr. Okey Obeleagu, were visibly appreciative of the gesture, acknowledging that the health insurance would enable them to receive quality healthcare at minimal cost.

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

COMMUNICATION KEY TO SUCCESSFUL PROJECT EXECUTION, SAYS POWER COMMISSIONER

By Azuka Offor :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Mr Julius Chukwuemeka has emphasised the importance of communication in executing any governmental projects. Mr Chukwuemeka made this known when the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Crew paid him a courtesy visit in his office at Awka .

He expressed the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with ABS station, as part of Governor Soludo’s team, to keep Anambra residents informed about the governor’s accomplishments and future plans for their well-being.

The commissioner emphasized that Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) needs to enhance its outreach efforts to inform the public about Governor Soludo’s accomplishments. “Without effective communication, even the most impactful projects can be claimed by others as their own.”

Highlighting the governor’s achievements, Mr Chukwuemeka noted that the Ministry of Power and Water Resources has initiated the installation of solar-powered streetlights across the state, stressing
that the cost of operating the street lights using diesel, is much more than enough to construct few kilometers of roads. This helps in cutting cost of governance.

The commissioner emphasized that to achieve Governor Soludo’s vision of transforming Anambra into a livable and prosperous megacity, the ministry is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating global warming’s effects through the installation of solar power systems in all water projects across the state, making renewable energy the primary power source.

According to him, the ministry follows the ISE principle for executing government developmental projects. ISE stands for Impact, Sustainability, and Eco-friendliness, ensuring that projects benefit the people, promote sustainability, and minimize environmental harm.

He expressed his satisfaction that Anambra State is now leading in solar street lights as individuals, markets and other states are emulating the state.

On his part, the Managing Director of A.B.S, Mr Chris Molokwu thanked the Solution Governor for his numerous achievements in ABS especially the water supply project through the ministry. He commended the commissioner and permanent secretary for their efforts in transforming the ministry through solar energy.

He expressed the station’s readiness to partner with the ministry to keep residents informed about the state government’s accomplishments through their platforms.

Mr. Molokwu seized the opportunity to outline the organization’s needs, which include installing solar systems at the MD’s office and other ABS offices as well as upgrading and rehabilitating the power system at their Enugwu Ukwu transmission station and a generator set for backup power supply.

Those present at the visit included the Permanent Secretary, Sir Victor Ezekwo, the Director of News, Mrs Judy Jeff Nwabueze, Director of Commercial Services, Mrs Uju Ifediba, the News Editors, Mr Abuchi Nwozo and Mrs Ngozi Obileri.

Offor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

1YOUTH 2SKILLS INSPECTION TEAM VISITS NNEWI SOUTH

By Ifeoma Aniagbado :

The inspection team of Anambra State 1 Youth 2 Skills program has visited training centers in Nnewi South LGA for the routine inspection .

The team comprising of the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Patrick Agha Mba and other management staff visited various centers to assess the level of progress achieved in the ongoing state government youth program.

The team inspected training centers at Amaechi, Azigbo, Osumenyi, Utuh, Ukpor, Ekwulumiri as well as others.

Mr. Agha Mba addressed the trainees at various centers explaining that the monitoring exercise was to ensure that the centers are complying with the rules and regulations of the program, also to ascertain the level of progress.

He stated that 1 Youth 2 Skills is a developmental program that is community friendly which the state government wants to achieve through apprenticeship model.

The commissioner advised the Master Trainers and trainees to be committed at their different locations to guarantee the the success of the program.

He also stated that the state government is committed and passionate to achieve the youth empowerment program so as to enable the unemployed youths meaningfully.

He commended the trainers for being among the team that drives the program and charged the trainees to keep their interest afloat as they are trained.

One of the trainees, Uchenna Nduka thanked Mr. Governor for the opportunity given to him and promised to support him in his second tenure.

Some of the trainees who spoke during the inspection visit expressed hearth felt gratitude to the state government and commended the Ministry of Youth for the priviledge given to them to acquire skills through the” one Youth two skills program” also promised not to disappoint the Anambra State Government.

Aniagbado is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

DUALIZATION OF NWAGU AGULU-NNOBI-NNEWI -OZUBULU-OKIJA ROAD BEGINS

By Sunday Okoli :

Anambra State Government has commenced the dualization of Nwagu Agulu-Nnobi-Nnewi -Ozubulu-Okija Road with a 370-meter Spur, three (3) Span Bridge Across Ulasi River.

Performing the handing over ceremony at Nwagu Agulu, Commissioner for Works, Engr. Ifeanyi Okoma who was represented by the Director of Highways, Engr. Noel Okoye said that the Lot One of the project which is the 18.6km Nwagu Agulu-Nnobi-Nnewi Road is with a completion period of 12 months.

He charged the contractor Lebtech Construction Company to adhere strictly to the completion period and work according to specifications.

At Nkwo Triangle Nnewi, the commissioner said that the Lot 2, which is the 16.51km dualization of Nnewi-Ozubulu-Okija Road with a bridge across Ulasi River was awarded to Ferotex Const. Ltd at a completion period of 15-months.

He noted that Governor Soludo is a gift to Ndi Anambra by awarding legacy projects that would last beyond the current administration.

The commissioner reminded the contractor that the government has an agenda with a timeline and so, they must have utmost consciousness of time.

In their separate remarks, the Managing Director of Lebtech Construction Ltd, Engr. Rony Melec and the Project Engineer of Ferotex Construction, Engr. Segun Ola praised the governor for awarding the contract to their companies and promised to deliver on time.

Okoli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA GOVT KICKS OFF ICONIC LIGHT OF NATION TOWER AND WATER FOUNTAIN PROJECT

By Sunday Okoli :

In a bid to transform the environment to the admiration of all, the Anambra State Government has handed over site for the construction of Light of Nation Tower and Water Fountain at Ekwulobia, Aguata LGA.

Performing the handing over ceremony at Ekwulobia roundabout, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Ifeanyi Okoma said that Governor Chukwuma Soludo is creating a smart mega city to enhance the environment.

The commissioner who was represented by the Director of Maintenance Department in the Ministry, Mr Amobi Anthony, charged the contractor to adhere strictly to the four months completion period.

The Managing Director of the Constructing firm, IDC Construction Ltd, Mr Maher Dib, thanked the state government for awarding the contract to their company, promising to deliver on schedule and according to specifications.

Okoli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

WORKS ONGOING ON THE RECONSTRUCTION OF ATANI ROAD

By Okoli Sunday :

Rehabilitation works is ongoing on the project, the reconstruction of Atani Road in Ogbaru LGA, Anambra State.

The 10km road which was awarded in June this year has a 14-month completion timeframe which is in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision to make the state the premier destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.

The contract was awarded to a competent contractor Mideast Construction Company Ltd.

The road when completed, will not only ease traffic along the ever busy Enugu -Onitsha Expressway, it would drastically reduce accidents and criminality on the road and also help to evacuate farm produce as the people of Ogbaru are agrarian communities.

Okoli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NNEWI NORTH CHAIRMAN INSPECTS DAMAGED ROADS

By Enoch Uzuegbunam/Chidubem Okoye :

The Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, Mr Echezona Anazodo, took a significant step towards improving the region’s infrastructure by touring damaged roads in Nnewi with representatives from the Anambra State Ministry of Works on October 29, 2024. This move followed his recognition of the dire state of the road network in Nnewi North since assuming office.

The chairman’s efforts to revitalize Nnewi’s infrastructure paid off as Governor Charles Soludo swiftly responded to his call for action by sending his team to assess, cost, and prioritize the reconstruction of these roads. The roads included;
Owerri Road, Igwe Orizu Road as well as Nkwo to Nkwo Road.

He reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the overall well-being of Nnewi, demonstrating his dedication to the community’s growth and development.

“The collaborative effort between the local government and the state ministry of works marks a significant milestone in Nnewi North’s journey towards improved infrastructure and a better quality of life for its residents.This move aligns with Governor Soludo’s development agenda, which prioritize road infrastructure.”

The event had the Deputy Mayor Nnewi North, Mrs Ijeoma Okoli, Speaker of the council, Hon. Chijioke Nwizugbe and Ifebi Uloma, amongst others

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

ANAMBRA POLICE LAUNCH SCHOOLS PROTECTION SQUAD

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

Anambra State Government has praised the federal government for launching the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) to tackle school insecurity. This commendation came after the State Police Command inaugurated the squad, making Anambra the first state in the Southeast and fourth in Nigeria to implement this initiative ¹.

The inauguration event, held at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Center in Awka, brought together key stakeholders in education and security.

Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, representing Governor Chukwuma Soludo, expressed gratitude to the federal government for prioritizing school safety. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with Governor Soludo’s commitment to enhancing security in educational institutions.

According to Dr. Ibezim, Anambra State appreciates the federal government’s response to protect schools and students, particularly as the state undertakes large-scale educational infrastructure projects. He noted that Governor Soludo’s free education policy has increased public school enrollment, making school security even more crucial.

Commissioner for Education Prof. Ngozi Chuma Udeh commended Commissioner of Police CP Obono Nnaghe Itam for his dedication to bringing this initiative to Anambra, stressing the importance of community collaboration for school safety.

The Schools Protection Squad aims to ensure the safety of schools and surrounding communities, addressing rising attacks and kidnappings by bandits. This proactive measure protects young learners and strengthens educational sector security. With Anambra leading the way, this initiative may set a precedent for other states to follow suit.

Nwankwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA GOVT VOWS TO BOOST SECURITY MEASURES

By Chisom Okpala :

Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment towards ensuring security of lives and property in the state.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim made the pledge at Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Center Awka during the training of Schools Protection Squad, that will help strengthen security resilience and integration of host communities in the protection of education.

According to him, a lot has been done in the education sector of the state and we are glad that the federal government through the Nigerian Police has awaken to the clarion call for the protection of these efforts made so far in schools.

Explaining on the need to protect the future generation, the governor stated that the state is making efforts to promote a safe and conducive learning environment, stressing that with the provision of infrastructures and adequate manpower, there is a paradigm shift in education in the state and people are now moving from private and mission schools to public schools.

He disclosed that more public schools will be built in state, as every community must have a public school, and called for community partnership that involves Traditional Rulers, President Generals and other structured organizations in ensuring safety in schools.

Speaking on behalf of Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Godwin Aghaulor stated that the SPS programme offers promising steps and measures geared towards prioritizing and improving security in and around schools and learning institutions in Anambra State.

He commended Governor Soludo’s unwavering support and commitment to the course of school protection in the state, stating that the safety and security of the educational institutions are paramount and it is imperative that all work together to protect and safeguard the students and educators.

The IG called for collaboration and integration between host communities and security agencies, stressing that it plays a significant role in fostering a secure and harmonious co-existence.

Also, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Obono Nnaghe Itam noted that education holds the future for development and growth of Anambra State and the entire country.

He pointed the need to strengthen the security architecture of the state in order to provide safer communities and to ensure that schools, staff, students and pupils are protected, maintaining that the SPS programme will help to boost the confidence of the Nigerian Police, as well as foster the required partnership with other informal security agencies in the state.

The event was organized by the Nigerian Police Force Strategic Stakeholders Forum on the training of Schools Protection Squad (SPS)