In a decisive move to address the growing security concerns in the state, the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) held its 33rd meeting on October 29, 2024, and resolved to confront the issues head-on ¹. The council identified kidnapping, cult killing, armed robbery, and other crimes as priority areas to be rooted out in the coming weeks.
*New Special Adviser on Community Security Sworn In*
As part of the reorganization in the security sector, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo swore in Kenneth Okwuchukwu Emeakayi as the new Special Adviser on Community Security.
*Major Infrastructure Projects Approved*
The council also approved several key infrastructure projects, including:
– *Dualization and Construction of Nwagu Agulu to Nnobi to Nnewi Road*: 18.6 km, awarded to Lebtech Constructions Ltd at ₦33.557 billion, with a 12-month project timeline.
– *Dualization and Construction of Nnewi-Ozubulu-Okija Road*: 16.51 km, awarded to Ferotex Construction Company at ₦30.918 billion, with an 18-month project timeline.
– *Light of the Nation Tower and Fountain*: Construction of the iconic tower at Ekwulobia, Aguata LGA, awarded to IDC Construction Ltd at ₦980 million, with a 4-month project timeline.
– *Supply and Installation of Medical Equipment*: For the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, awarded to De Jotlims Medical Ltd at ₦236.371 million, with a 2-month project timeline.
These projects are expected to significantly boost infrastructure development and improve the quality of life for residents in Anambra State.
By Henrietta Madichie/Uche Igboeli/ Azuka Nnabuife :
In alignment with Governor Charles Soludo’s vision to transform Anambra State into a digital and creative capital, the Solution Innovation District (SID) has officially announced the inaugural Anambra Innovation Week 2024 (AIW2024).
This initiative is dedicated to fostering a robust ecosystem for digital talent, startups, and innovative businesses across the state.
Chinwe Okoli, the Special Adviser to the governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, shared details about the event during a press briefing in her Awka office.
She emphasized that the primary goal of AIW2024 is to nurture and support the startup ecosystem by incubating promising ventures, promoting research and commercialization and enabling businesses to leverage technology for scalable growth.
Okoli highlighted that Anambra Innovation Week is poised to become an annual flagship event, showcasing Nigeria and Africa’s rapidly growing and vibrant technology and innovation landscape.
“The event will convene innovators, policymakers, top technology CEOs, industry entrepreneurs, investors, digital experts, and academics from Africa and beyond.
“AIW2024 will feature a variety of activities, including exhibitions, showcases, and competitions, notably the “Battle 4 Solution.”
“This competition will reward the brightest startups in Nigeria with a total cash prize pool of 100 million naira for solutions addressing critical societal challenges across various sectors.
“Innovators from Anambra and across Nigeria are encouraged to apply and participate in the Battle 4 Solution, with applications now open at [www.innovationweek.anambrastate.gov.ng]
“This year’s theme is ‘Creating the Future of Africa Now”.”
The Anambra Innovation Week is scheduled to take place from November 25 to 29, 2024, at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Agu Awka, Anambra State.
A joint delegation from Ogwuikpele and Ogwuaniocha communities in Ogbaru Local Government Area recently paid a courtesy visit to Prof. Charles Ofoegbu, Chairman/CEO of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company and Anambra Petroleum and Energy Resources. The delegation sought to find lasting solutions to the persistent crisis and hardships plaguing their communities.
One of the delegates, Mr Olisa Onwuma stated that they work for SEEPCO, the Company that produces oil in Ogbaru but promises made to them in the past have not been fulfilled, as they are not being paid as and when due by SEEPCO and have not been benefiting from the oil wells since time immemorial.
He regretted that there’s no good and functional schools and hospitals in their communities as their children usually get drowned in the river while going to school on boats.
Mr Onwuma maintained that not a single indigenous resident is employed in the service of the Company as a full time staff and most of the Government’s intervention palliatives meted out to communities affected by flood has not gotten to them for the past two years. He urged the state governor to look into their plight as they are suffering in their various communities and in the discharge of their duties as CLOs.
Responding, the Chairman, Prof.Ofoegbu lamented that despite his interventions, the two communties are still faced with various crisis ranging from bunkering and badging of crude oils, poor infrastructures and lack of social amenities.
“Ogbaru is now in the map of the world, following the oil wells in these two communties, and through my intervention, Anambra State was made an oil producing state. My concern now is, how to rescue the people because they’re suffering, we agreed to set up a committee to monitor badging and the number of times the badges crosses the river,the size of the badge and the timing.
“Some people are tampering with the proceeds of our oil and you must not keep quiet, you people are working for the good of the community and you must earn your salaries to survive
“We also agreed that there should be a Fish Processing Plant in Ogbaru, one in Ogwuikpele and one in Ogwuaniocha, in the form of a Fish farming Coperative where they will harvest, process, package and export fishes”, Prof.Ofoegbu added.
He further advised them to put all their needs in writing so he can relay them to the state government.
Nsofor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Idemili North LGA Chairman, Mr. Stanley Nkwoka, inaugurated newly elected councillors representing the towns in Idemili North LGA into office.
The swearing-in ceremony for the councillors took place at the Idemili North LGA Headquarters, Ogidi.
Mr. Nkwoka charged the councillors to work as a team and abide by the local government bye-laws and rules so as to achieve the lofty goals of the Gov. Soludo led government.
He further advised them to carry out the functions of their offices in line with Gov. Soludo’s policies in order to deliver the dividends of democracy to the Anambra people.
The councillors, who were sworn into office, were Mr Samuel Anikpe, who represents Nkpor 1; Mr Mathew Obi, who represents Abacha ward 1; Mr Obidike Nwabunwanne, who represents Ogidi ward 1; Mr Shedrach Emelumgini, who represents Eziowelle ward; and Mr Obiora Chukwunulum, represents Ogidi ward 2.
Other councillors, who took the oath of office were Mr Obichukwu Anyafulu from Obosi; Mr Okonkwo Nelis Ebuka from Ideani ward; Mr Nnaegbo Innocent from Umuoji ward; Mr Christian Okechukwu, who represents Oraukwu ward; Mr Anthony Chukwuemeka, who represents Abatete ward; and Mr Enendu Felix Ikenna, who represents Uke ward.
The climax of the event was the election of Mr Samuel Anikpe from Nkpor ward 1 as the leader of Idemili North; and Mr Mathew Obi, councillor representing Abacha, as the deputy leader of Idemili North.
The leader of Idemili North LGA, Mr Anikpe, thanked the people, who made the inauguration ceremony a success, and promised to offer qualitative leadership to the people.
Okoye is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
By Mbuna I Nkiru, Amaechina Anthonia, Uche Azuka Claribel Udah, Chioma Nwankwo and Chika Obi :
A significant event was witnessed in Onitsha North Local Government Area as 15 councillors, all elected on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), were officially inaugurated by the Clerk of the House.
During the ceremony, the newly inaugurated councillors also nominated principal officers to lead the house,and Mr Nnamdi Okwuayanga was nominated as the leader, with Obiora Obi as Deputy Leader, Chijoke Okpalaugo- Majority Leader.
Others were; Mrs. Nkiru Vivian Okagbue –Deputy Majority Leader, Anthony Oseloka Asolo- Chief Whip and Mr. Samuel Noyelu as Deputy Chief Whip.
The Mayor of the LGA, Mr Nweze Tony Nwora while congratulating the councilors urged them to approach their responsibilities with integrity and a commitment to the development and welfare of Onitsha North residents.
He emphasized the importance of aligning their efforts with the “Solution is Here Agenda” for Ndi Anambra spearheaded by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
The event, which took place at the Onitsha North LGA Secretariat Hall, was attended by APGA chieftains and friends of the councillors, including notable dignitaries such as Mayor Nwora; Mr Patrick Agha Mba, Commissioner for Youth Development; Deputy Mayor, Mrs. Ijeoma Ejiagwa; Special Advisor on Political Matters to Governor Soludo, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu; among others
The nominated leader, Mr Nnamdi Okwuayanga thanked the populace for the support during the election, pledging their readiness to work as a team to achieve the goal of the Agenda of the Governor .
Mbuna, Amaechina, Azuka, Udah, Nwankwo and Obi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
On Sunday, October 13th, 2024, Anambra State was abuzz with excitement as the Anambra Picnic and Funfair took over the state-of-the-art Film Village in Awka. This highly anticipated event united families, friends, and thrill-seekers of all ages, transforming the venue into a dynamic hotspot of entertainment, laughter and joy.
The picnic and funfair offered an unforgettable experience, featuring:
Thrilling games and activities, scintillating music and dance performances, delicious local cuisine and refreshing treats.
Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, partnered with the Anambra State Tourism Volunteers Network (TV) to host the prestigious event. The TV Network, comprising passionate tourism enthusiasts, focuses on promoting tourism’s vast benefits and fostering its growth in the state.
The event’s success underscores Anambra’s commitment to promoting tourism, cultural heritage, and community bonding. As the state continues to invest in initiatives like the Film Village, Anambra solidifies its position as a premier destination for leisure, entertainment and cultural exploration in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Culture and Entertainment, Mr Don Onyenji emphasised the importance of cultural events in promoting unity and social cohesion.
According to him, “this picnic and funfair is more than just entertainment; it’s about celebrating our rich cultural heritage and fostering community bonding. Anambra State is committed to supporting initiatives that showcase our unique identity and promote tourism development.”
He maintained that globally, tourism has emerged as the new oil and gas, driving economic growth and development. According to him, if Anambra State fully develops its tourism sector, it could become the next richest state in Nigeria in a remarkably short time.
Onyenji further noted that the present administration has intentionally embraced tourism project and also committed billions of naira in tourism development in the state, both through its policies, programmes, and physical projects.
Anambra State is already recognized for its vibrant commercial activities and entrepreneurship. By harnessing its tourism potential, the state can further diversify its economy, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, agricultural strengths and strategic location. With continued investment and support, Anambra is poised to climb the economic ladder, potentially surpassing other states in the near future.
The commissioner elaborated on the governor’s vision for Anambra, aiming to transform it into a thriving homeland where residents can live, work, unwind, and enjoy themselves. Key projects underway to achieve this vision include the groundbreaking Solution Fun City Awka (SFCA), Sub-Saharan Africa’s first-of-its-kind entertainment hub, boasting a country club, amusement park, and sports facilities. Other notable initiatives include the Neighbourhood Leisure Park in Awka and the construction of a massive ten-storey hotel also in Awka.
These developments underscore the governor’s commitment to making Anambra an attractive destination for residents and tourists alike, ultimately boosting the state’s economy and prosperity. By investing in infrastructure and entertainment, Anambra is poised to become a model for liveability and economic growth in Nigeria.
“The development of the Solution Fun City alone will create numerous job opportunities and serve as a central hub for leisure and tourism in the state,” Onyenji stated.
He further explained that Governor Soludo is transforming Anambra into a tourist haven, beyond the impressive Solution Fun City. Significant projects underway include the retrofitting and expansion of the Igboukwu Museum, home to a rich collection of Igbo cultural artifacts.
The Agulu Lake Leisure Park is also being developed, with plans for an artificial beach, offering exciting recreational opportunities. These initiatives will cement Anambra’s status as a premier tourist destination in Nigeria, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
He also explained that the state government is making significant strides in promoting rural tourism by developing and showcasing heritage sites across various communities. Key sites include: Ogbunike Cave, Owerre-Ezukala Waterfalls, Anam Sand Beach and the historic Ojukwu Bunker in Amorka, which played a pivotal role during the Nigerian Civil War among others.
Unveiling the Anambra State Chapter of the Tourism Volunteers Network, he emphasized the importance of collaboration to boost the sector. To ensure tourism development reaches beyond urban areas, the state government is actively engaging with local communities to establish leisure parks, promoting grassroots growth and community involvement.
“Anambra State is home to numerous natural and historical treasures that are yet to be fully explored. Our goal is to bring these attractions to the forefront, not just for entertainment or for tourism development, but also to preserve our rich cultural heritage,” he said.
The commissioner extended an invitation to investors to consider Anambra State, highlighting its vast tourism potential, numerous investment opportunities, and status as the safest and most conducive state for investments in the country.
Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, represented by the Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, Ambassador Phil Robert praised Anambra’s tourism potentials and commended the state government’s innovative approach and commitment to boosting tourism.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including Prince Chinedu Okafor, Chairman of Awka South Local Government, and Mr. Chinedu Obidigwe, former National Assembly member representing Anambra East/West Federal Constituency. Also in attendance was Chidi Uzowulu, State Coordinator of Anambra Tourism Volunteers Network, along with numerous other dignitaries. They collectively acknowledged Anambra’s vast natural resources and tourism potential, praising the current administration’s efforts to develop and harness these assets.
Kalu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State Chapter, has congratulated the newly elected local government area chairmen and councillors on their successful elections. The association, which advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities, called on the newly appointed leaders to prioritize inclusivity in their governance approach.
In a press release signed by the JONAPWD State Chairman, Comr. Ugochukwu Ernest C. Okeke, the association acknowledged the hard-earned trust the citizens of Anambra placed in the newly elected officials, urging them to use their new positions to foster equitable representation for all members of society.
A key request made by JONAPWD Anambra is for the appointment of persons with disabilities as Special Assistants on disability matters at the local government level.
According to the organization, including disabled persons in governance will enhance the policymaking process by ensuring that their specific needs are addressed and considered.
They emphasized that such appointments would not only support equity and justice but also empower the disabled community by giving them a platform to contribute to local governance.
The association referenced the Anambra State Disability Rights Law of 2018, Section 52, Subsection 1, which calls for the full participation of persons with disabilities in politics and public life without discrimination.
“This is an important step in creating inclusive communities, and we believe that by leveraging the leadership of the newly elected chairmen and councillors, positive changes will be made towards building accessible local governments across Anambra State,” said Comr. Okeke.
They further expressed optimism about the future and pledged their full support to the new local government leaders, stating their readiness to collaborate on initiatives that promote inclusivity and equal representation in governance.
The association’s call is a crucial move to ensure the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are given due attention in the new administration in the 21 local government areas of the state.
Ajemba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Member representing Anambra East and West at the green chamber, Mr. Peter Aniekwe has urged Anambra East Local Government Chairman, Sir Ifeanyi Chinweze to prioritize collaboration and communication between local and national leaders, saying that the partnership would foster strong relationships and facilitate discussions on legislative updates, address constituents’ concerns, and promote community development project.
Mr Aniekwe made the call during a courtesy to Anambra East Chairman, Sir Ifeanyi Chinweze in his office at the Council headquarters .
He briefed the Chairman on federal initiatives and legislation that will benefit local communities. These initiatives included; funding and support for road construction, public transportation, and community facilities.
Other initiatives were; economic empowerment programs that will foster small business growth, job creation, and workforce development as well as public health and education initiatives, aimed at addressing healthcare disparities, improving access to quality education, and promoting overall community well-being.
The chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, Sir Ifeanyi Chinweze briefed the lawmaker on local issues such as security, infrastructural development, public health, education and economic growth.
He thanked Mr Peter Aniekwe for his great support to Anambra East and Anambra state at large.
Nwegbo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
Anambra Commissioner For Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma-Udeh has lauded the Agulu Peoples Union(APU) for their foresight in establishing the APU Vocation Academy, Agulu.
Prof Chuma-Udeh gave the commendation at the official opening and first matriculation ceremony of the academy held at the school premises in Agulu.
She said that investing in the future of society is always laudable and showcases a society that is interested in the progress of the community.
“Your projection and interest in the future of the youth are manifest with this school. Youths are in dilemma, they do not know their right from their left, with this Academy, the community is saying that self-sustenance is the best gift one can give to another.
“The acquisition of skill is important in human life; once acquired, it stays with one throughout life unlike a corporate job that one retires from at a certain age,” she posited.
Prof Chuma Udeh asserted that Agulu people have always been known as hardworking people and their proficiency in skill acquisition is also well-known, adding that she is not surprised that they embarked on such a venture.
She assured the community that the present administration will give the academy every support needed to make it an enabling institute for the students while promising to solicit future collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Development as it aligns with Governor Soludo’s 1-Youth, 2-Skills initiative.
In his remarks, the President General of Agulu Peoples Union, Chief Oliver Afamefuna recounted the event that led to the establishment of the Academy, stating that it was borne out of passion to take the youths off the street and social vices such as drug abuse, thuggery and actively engage them in profitable venture via the acquisition of skills in diverse trades.
The Director of APU Vocation Academy, Dr, Emmanuel Duezeh in his address stated that the Academy is not limited to Agulu Indigenes alone but is open to all who are interested in acquiring a skill or two while adding that currently, the Academy is offering 11 courses which cut across bag making, footwear, nylon making electrical works amongst others.
The highlight of the event was a tour of the facility and inspection of some of the products by the Academy by Commissioner Chuma-Udeh and her entourage which included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, and Director of the Technical and Vocational Education, Lady Ngozi Enemuo
Nwankwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
There was unmitigated flow of commendations Saturday, 26th of October 2024 at Emmaus House Awka, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State when the lawmaker representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency, Prof. Lilian Orogbu, presented her one-year stewardship to constituents
The presentation was made at the event organized by the United Nations Women/National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) step-down programme in Anambra State.
The event brought together representatives from various groups, including clergy, traditional rulers, youths and women organizations, and stakeholders from all 34 wards in Awka to bear witness of the track records of one of the best lawmakers the constituency has ever produced.
Articulating her achievements within one year in office, Prof. Lilian Orogbu disclosed that some of her achievements include reconstruction of classroom blocks at Ezioka Community Secondary School, Agulu Awka Primary School, and Community Primary School, Ikwodiaku.
She further dazzle the public by including the construction of a proposed mini stadium in Achalla, Awka North LGA, and provision of solar power at two health centers in Ezinato and Urum, provision of grants for small business owners, empowerment of 200 widows with grinding and sewing machines, and distribution of fertilizers as some of the few-mentioned projects in the constituency.
The lawmaker who said she secured employment for some constituents and sponsored legislative bill for the establishment of a college of entrepreneurship studies in Awka insisted that legislative work is beyond yes or nay chorus in the chamber.
The ebullient lawmaker and a professor of international repute, attributed her success to the support of her constituents, her late husband’s family, and her dedication to serving the people while describing the 10th National Assembly as “gender-friendly” and expressed her commitment to evolving policies and programs that would benefit her constituents.
In her assessment of the current state government under Prof. Charles Soludo, Orogbu expressed concerns about the insecurities in the state, calling for more focused efforts as he commend him for the road networks in the state.
In his goodwill message, the United Nations representative, Mr. Patrick Nnadozie Udefuna, emphasized the importance of enhancing women’s political representation in Nigeria, citing their proven abilities as leaders and agents of change.
In her remarks, Awka Development Union Women’s Wing, Oge Ekweozor ( Esq),commended the lawmaker, Prof Orogbu for bringing the conference to women in a time like this. She said women participation in politics can be increased via a viable committee and by voting them into elective office during election.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Prof. Orogbu by the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) Youths, Awka.
Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
