Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

IGR: ANAMBRA INDUSTRIALISTS URGED TO BRING HEAD OFFICE HOME

By Daniel Obagha :

Anambra industrialists resident outside Anambra State have been urged to bring back the headquarters of their companies and businesses to the state to assist in the development of the state.

The Acting Director and Head of Department of High Networth Individuals (HNI) at the Anambra Internal Revenue Service (AIRS), Mrs Juliet Nwakpudolu made this appeal at her office while speaking with newsmen.

Mrs Nwakpudolu said that many industrialists and high networth business men from Anambra were not resident in the state.

“Some of them are outside Nigeria, some are in Abuja, Lagos, Enugu and they are paying their taxes there .

“So in line with the think home policy of our Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, we appeal to them to if possible change their address on their shares so that whatever they realise from them will be paid to Anambra State Government.

“We also appeal to them to bring back home the headquarters of their companies and businesses so that all their PAYE and withholding taxes will all be paid in Anambra in order to assist the state,” she said.

The acting director explained that many owners of companies and businesses do not keep proper records of their books to tell what they realised in a year and that they always complain of double taxation because they pay income taxes where they reside.

“Since many of them don’t reside in Anambra, each time we send them letter of invitation and/or assessment letter they complain that they pay taxes at where they reside and that paying in Anambra will amount to double taxation.

“So we also send those that pay letters of appreciation while appealing to those that don’t pay to pay so that they will assist in the development of the state,” she explained.

The head of the HNI said that her office was a special tax assessment unit at AIRS that targets big businessmen in Anambra State.

“Our office is not for ordinary people. Our targets are contractors, owners of industries, expatriates, people that use money to pursue money and even our governor and his deputy. Those are the kind of people we meet.”

Mrs Nwakpudolu said that through the help of Anambra State Identification Number (ASIN), her office has brought in many HNIs into the tax net.

*Daniel is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA HOUSING COMMISSIONER RECEIVES HONOR, CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIASSC MEMBERS

By Uzoma Ekweaga :

Anambra State Housing Commissioner, Mr Pauly Onyeka has urged members of the Anambra State Chapter of Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIASSC) to prioritize unity and environmental transformation for better development of the state.

The commissioner who stated this while receiving an honor at the Nigeria Institute of Architects’ annual conference held at Oba Daniel Nwandu Architectural Research Center, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, emphasized the importance of professionalism and good conduct, particularly when interacting with others in the building profession, to prevent industry problems.

He advised architects to carefully get their work done. ”From the outset, ensure your designs are thoroughly refined and well-packaged before implementation. This means carefully considering every aspect of the project, getting everything just right, before taking it to the site for construction.”

While urging them to prioritize environmental architecture, alongside building design, he emphasized the importance of supporting Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s transformation agenda, focusing on urban regeneration for a livable and prosperous smart mega city.

Mr Onyeka noted that architects often overlook environmental architecture, focusing primarily on building infrastructure. He encouraged them to create designs that enhance the state’s aesthetic value and present these ideas to the government for adoption. “By doing so, architects can contribute significantly to the state’s development,” he stressed.

He emphasized the importance of discipline within the institution, urging leaders to promote unity and prevent disunity among members. He warned that arrogance can hinder progress, making it difficult to receive advice, which is crucial for growth.

Onyeka expressed gratitude to the institution for honoring him, citing it as evidence of the ministry’s positive impact on the state and a testament to Professor Chukwuma Soludo’s outstanding achievements.

He however declared his love for the architectural profession and pledged to always support the association’s activities whenever the need arises .

Earlier in his welcome address, the State Chairman of NIASSC , Arc. Ikenna Onuorah welcomed all the people to the event , saying that this year’s theme : Towards A Livable and Sustainable Urban City : Role of Professionalism in Planning and Construction ” was in line with Professor Chukwuma Soludo’s desire to address environmental problems facing the cities with more emphasis on challenges of professionalism.

He said that according to the United Nations Environmental Program, (UNEP) reports, a city must provide high quality of life for its residents and such cities should possess effective transportation system, green space and urban parks, sustainable housing and infrastructure, access to essential services like hospitals,among others.

Other dignitaries that graced the event included the Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University ,Prof Carol Umobi, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof Agbonome P, State Chairman, Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineering, Prof Akolisa Ezeagu, Chairman, Institute of Surveyors, Anambra Chapter, Surv. Gabriel Okeke among others.

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

GOVERNMENT TO BEGIN DESTRUCTION OF SHANTIES, SHOPS ALONG ENUGU-ONITSHA EXPRESSWAY

By Chris Chikelue :

Anambra State Government has announced that it will no longer condone erection of shanties and dingy shops along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.

This was contained in a release made by its environment monitoring taskforce, The Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra State which was signed by its Managing Director and Chief Superintendent General, Comrade Celestine Anere, made public on October 18.

According to the release, it is the intention of the State Government to bring to public its decision to expunge and rid the entire stretch of road from Amansea axis of the Federal highway all through down to Bridgehead, Onitsha Metropolis of shanties and attachments on either sides of the Enugu-Onitsha road.

“Traders on the either sides of the long stretch are advised to start dismantling and evacuation of all shanties and strictures. The State Government will frown and subsequently wield the big stick against any defaulter of this directive.

“Enforcement to clear up the highway will resume two (2) weeks from the first announcement (i.e) 18 October 2024.

“All the motor parks cited on either sides of the Federal highway must be well gated to make way for a peaceful and a lot safer environment.

FG, IFAD-VCDP DIALOGUES ON LG TAKE OVER FOR SUSTAINABILITY

By Henry C. Anagboso :

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the International Fund for Agricultural Development through its Programme, Value Chain Developments Programme (VCDP), Anambra office on Tuesday held a policy dialogue with stakeholders in Awka, the state capital.

Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Forster Ihejiofor in a remark said the Value Chain Programme is one that farmers in the participating LGAs and beyond have continued to testify of the impact of their various interventions.

Dr Forster said, the policy dialogue was

centered on “Integration of the Operation and Maintenance of the Rural Road Infrastructure in the Local Government AWPB for Sustainability” of the VCDP interventions in the LGAs.

The commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry,

Mrs. Uzoka explained that the policy dialogue would be further followed up to ensure acceptability and adoption to enable the sustenance of the feeder roads when the programme finally fades away.

“And on this day, we are gather to deliberate on a policy which centers on Integration of the Operation and Maintenance of the Rural Road Infrastructure in the Local Government AWPB for Sustainability. This will be further followed up to ensure acceptability and adoption to enable the sustenance of these feeder roads when the programme finally feeds away”

The Acting State Programme Coordinator, Dr. Deborah Onyefulu in her speech said the policy dialogue is coming at this time in the life of the programme to give it a soft landing as the programme is gradually winding up.

The Ag. SPC highlighted that VCDP has tried in its effort in making available the infrastructure across the participating local government areas, and has set up Operation Maintenance committee to maintain the road infrastructure, but as a means of strengthening the ownership of these infrastructure, it is therefore of most important to advocate the takeover of the operation and maintenance by the local government.

Dr. Onyefulu further explained that the policy dialogue is to brainstorm and adopt this policy and then follow up with more advocacy for implementation.

The chairman Civil Society Organization (CSO), Dr. Chris Azor while applauding the VCDP for coming up with such exit strategy said it’s quite a good step that the programme is engaging stakeholders for sustainability of programme interventions and called for grassroots engagements

Awka North Local Government Head of Department on Agric, Mrs. Gloria Ekebosi said it would be strategic that the Extension Agents, the Liaison officers must work hand in hand with the various local government executive chairmen even counselors to ensure there is regular oversight function to aid the adoption of the policy issue for sustainability.

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

WORLD FOOD DAY: AGRIC COMMISSIONER ADVOCATES SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, has called on stakeholders to collaborate with the state government in its transformative journey in the agricultural sector.

The commissioner made this known during a press briefing to mark this year’s World Food Day celebrated annually on October 16.

Dr Ihejiofor emphasized that collaboration among stakeholders is essential to delivering economic growth and improving the wellbeing of the state’s population.

He urged communities, stakeholders, and individuals to join global efforts aimed at achieving food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

“The theme for this year’s celebration, “Food for Better Life and Better Future,” reflects the pressing need to establish sustainable food systems and address the global hunger crisis, currently affecting over 733 million people worldwide.

“In Anambra, we understand that food security goes beyond mere availability. It encompasses nutrition, safety, access, utilization, and stability.

“This is a critical issue that influences our social and economic landscape, and it underscores our commitment to building sustainable agricultural systems,” Ihejiofor noted.

He outlined several projects spearheaded by the state government, including the free distribution of 2.2 million combined oil palm and staple crop seedlings to over 250,000 residents.

“These efforts are aimed at improving food security, building livelihood resilience, and fostering sustainable economic growth along the agricultural value chain.”

Other key initiatives include the “Farm to Feed” campaign, various completed and ongoing statewide infrastructural projects, as well as workshops and training programs.

Upcoming events, such as farmers’ markets, a food security symposium, and community outreach programs, are also part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to support the agricultural sector.

“As we celebrate World Food Day, we must recommit to our regenerative agricultural policies, which protect the environment, enhance productivity, and ensure that every citizen has access to healthy, nutritious food,” Ihejiofor added.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka, emphasized the importance of maximizing the limited agricultural land available by making efficient use of resources to improve food security.

She also highlighted various activities undertaken by the ministry to commemorate this year’s World Food Day.

These include a road walk to raise awareness and a tour of backyard demonstration farms as part of the “Farm to Feed” program, and the “Healthy Living Initiative” introduced by the State Governor’s wife, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo.

*Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

BOUNDARY MATTERS: ANAMBRA DEPUTY GOVERNOR STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF PEACEFUL RESOLUTION

By Chisom Okpala :

The Anambra State Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim has maintained that peaceful settlement should be adopted by communities in land dispute.

Ibezim who is the Chairman, Anambra State Boundary Committee gave the charge while addressing the leaders of Awa and Ufuma communities both in Orumba North Local Government Area on a lingering boundary dispute.

He admonished them to avoid taking laws into their hands, explaining that no life is worth losing over land, rather, “let us always pursue peace as a means to achieving peaceful resolution”, he advised.

Speaking, the Traditional Rulers of both communities, HRH Igwe I.O Ezue of Awa community and HRH Igwe S.C Uchime of Ufuma community called on the state boundary committee to establish a clear boundary demarcation, noting that there are still lingering unresolved issues despite court judgements.

Also, one of the community representatives, Chief Ernest Okafor in a vote of thanks appealed on government intervention toward achieving lasting peace among the two communities.

The meeting had the presence of the Permanent Secretary of the Office of the Deputy Governor, Dr Florence Idigo-Ibenta, the Executive Secretary State Boundary Committee, Dr. Oliseloka Mba, SSA to Governor on Boundary (Office of the Deputy Governor), Hon. Ekenechukwu Okoye, others.

*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY SPEAKER COMMENDS SOLUDO’S BROADCAST ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTONOMY

By Chizoba Okeke :

The Anambra State House of Assembly speaker, Mr Somotochukwu Udeze has commended Governor Soludo’s broadcast on local government autonomy and related matters, saying it’s agreeable with the constitutional provisions and legislative procedures.

Udeze also commended the governor for signing into law Economic Planning/Development, Local Government Administration Laws

The Speaker said that the explanations provided by Governor Chukwuma Soludo during his broadcast are quite explicit and in line with the mandate of the judiciary and legislature as well as the state and local government joint responsibilities.

Udeze revealed that Governor Soludo’s administration is mindful of constitutional provisions in all ramifications, adding that the signing of the Anambra State Economic Planning And Development Bill, 2024 and Anambra State Local Government Administration Bill, 2024 into law by the governor is in the best interest of the citizenry.

The speaker further commended the state lawmakers for being thorough and precise in the discharge of their legislative duties especially the recent enactment of the Local Government Administration Law and State Economic Planning And Development Law.

He explained that the law will enhance development at the council areas and also improve the living standard of the rural dwellers.

He assured Ndi Anambra that the state legislature will ensure that the people of Anambra reaps the benefits of the law.

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

GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S FREE MATERNAL HEALTHCARE, DELIVERY: KEY TO REDUCE MATERNAL MORTALITY

By Ginika Oguji :

The Comprehensive Medical Center (CMC) Akwuzu has recorded a zero maternal mortality since the introduction of the Anambra free antenatal care and delivery for expectant mothers in the hospital.

Speaking during the weekly antenatal work out and care at the hospital, Mrs Josephine Ajaegbo, Matron of CMC Akwuzu, said that the hospital for the past one year has recorded a significant increase in antenatal cases, with over 30 new cases being treated monthly and a zero maternal mortality.

She noted that the free antenatal care is a pointer to the decline in maternal mortality as expectant mothers not just register for antenatal care but register on time now, so care and monitoring starts at the early stage of pregnancy.

Speaking , Mrs Ajaegbo also highlighted that the free maternal healthcare initiative, launched by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, which included free registration, antenatal care, laboratory examinations, drugs and delivery in all government hospitals have encouraged most expectant mothers to register for antenatal care on time since it is free care for all pregnant mothers residing in Anambra, irrespective of the state of origin.

The significant effect of this timely registration according to her is a decline in maternal and infant mortality rates in the hospital and state.

“Before now, we have been experiencing cases of pregnant women visiting us almost at the point of delivery or a month to delivery in most cases having developed complications from a quake or traditional health attendant,” she noted.

Expressing their joy and chanting praises to Gov. Soludo, the mothers prayed God to bless and uphold the governor, recounting the benefits they are enjoying from the free antenatal care.

One of the expectant mothers, Mrs. Goodness Asazu from Edo State, residing in Akwuzu said that she has been receiving care and drugs for four months now and no bill has been given to her.

Mrs. Asazu thanking Gov. Soludo for the free antenatal care for pregnant mothers, said that ordinarily, she would not have been able to register in a hospital for care or delivery because of the economic condition of her family.

*Ginika is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

SOLUDO’S AGENDA ON SOCIAL REFORMATION: COMMISSIONER MEFOR SEEKS ASUBEB’S COLLABORATION

By Rose Oranye :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has called on the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) to collaborate on the campaign on social reformation to catch Anambra children young and stem the tide of moral degeneration, drug abuse, and get-rich syndrome now ravaging the youth population.

Speaking during his visit to the ASUBEB Chairman, Dr Vera Nkiru Nwadinobi, at her office in Awka, Mefor said he was seeking collaboration to help the newly created Anambra Civic and Social Reformation Office (ANCISRO) to take off and reorient the youths who have gone astray in terms of morals.

“We want your collaboration. We need to do something. Governor Chukwuma Soludo created the agency weeks before I came, which shows he is interested in getting Ndị Anambra, particularly the youths, to imbibe the core values for which Anambra and Ndi Igbo are known. Values like hard work, honesty, resilience, patience, integrity, and so on are vanishing. Strange things have taken over. We now hear things like Ibute ike, Oke ite, which is about ritual murders, or Yahoo Plus. Cultism has reached primary schools and is making its way into the general society.

“The Ministry of Information is keen on taking up the social reform agenda of Governor Soludo and committed to activating the Civic and Social Reformation Agency – ANCISRO. We need to get people who are concerned to join the mentoring team. We need to develop messages and form Anti Drug and Anti Cultism Clubs in orimary and secondary schools. We want to focus on schools, particularly primary and secondary schools so that we can catch them young deploying very vigorous enlightenment campaigns ,” he said.

In her remarks, Dr. Nwadinobi assured the commissioner of ASUBEB’s support and decried the level of moral decadence in the society, blaming parents, churches, and others for not living up to expectations.

Dr Vera Nwadinobi made a presentation of a handbook on counselling against the burden of drug abuse and other social vices, which she co-authored with the first lady, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, and Commissioner of Women Affairs, Hon. Ify Obinabo.

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

GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S STANCE ON ANAMBRA NEW LOCAL GOVERNMENT LAWS

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

Anambra State Government has enacted two new laws aimed at reforming local governance: the Anambra State Economic Planning and Development Law, 2024, and the Anambra State Local Government Administration Law, 2024.

These laws, signed by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, are intended to increase transparency, enhance collaboration between state and local governments, and ensure the efficient management of local government resources.

The new legislation has stirred debate, particularly regarding their alignment with a recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy.

However, Gov. Soludo clarified that these laws are consistent with the Nigerian Constitution and that they seek to improve governance at the local level, stressing that the reforms are not about undermining local government autonomy but about ensuring proper management of public funds and services.

He pointed out that Nigeria’s Constitution do not treat local governments as completely autonomous units. He explained that, under Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution, state governments have the power to establish and structure local governments. Therefore, Anambra’s new laws aimed to provide a structured approach to managing local government funds and services, ensuring they align with both the Constitution and the Supreme Court ruling.

Soludo emphasized that the debate over local government autonomy is still unsettled in Nigeria’s federal system, noting that the APC’s 2018 restructuring committee had proposed removing local governments from the Constitution, allowing states to decide how to manage them.

The recent Supreme Court ruling, which mandated the direct transfer of funds to local governments, has been viewed as a step toward more financial independence for local councils.

However, Gov. Soludo sees the recent ruling by the Supreme Court as an opportunity to introduce greater transparency in how these funds are managed. He argued that while local governments should have control over their finances, there must be oversight and collaboration with the state to ensure effective service delivery.

Soludo pointed out that the ruling provides a chance to restructure the Joint State-Local Government Accounts system to ensure better coordination. He emphasized that if local governments were left to manage their finances independently without proper oversight, it could lead to financial mismanagement and failure to provide critical services like primary education and healthcare.

According to him, One of the central elements of the new laws is the creation of the Anambra State Economic Planning Board, which will include all local government chairpersons. This board will be responsible for deciding how local government revenues are allocated for essential services such as salaries, education, healthcare, and pensions.

Gov. Soludo explained that this collaborative approach ensures consistency across local governments. Without it, some local governments might struggle to meet basic obligations like paying teachers or providing healthcare. By pooling resources, the state can ensure that all local governments have the necessary funds to fulfill their responsibilities.

Mr Governor also addressed concerns raised by local government workers and unions about potential issues with local government autonomy. The new laws aim to protect workers, including teachers and healthcare workers, by ensuring their salaries and pensions are consistently paid.

He highlighted that when he took office, he inherited four years of unpaid gratuities to local government workers.

His administration has since restructured the system and brought it back to financial stability. Anambra is now ranked first among Nigerian states for fiscal transparency, a testament to the government’s focus on accountability.

Gov. Soludo emphasized that these reforms are designed to build lasting institutions that will continue to function effectively after his administration. The laws are intended to safeguard the improvements made in education, healthcare, and local government workers welfare.

With these reforms, Anambra is leading the way in finding practical solutions to the challenges of local governance in Nigeria. Soludo called for similar reforms across other states, stressing that no tier of government can function effectively in isolation. Collaboration between state and local governments is essential for achieving sustainable development and improving the lives of citizens.

He posited that the new laws represent a progressive step in Nigeria’s evolving federalism, balancing local government autonomy with the need for collaboration and accountability, while stating that his administration aimed to ensure that local governments in Anambra are well-managed, transparent, and able to meet their obligations to the people.

*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State