The Managing Director of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), Mr. Ossy Onuko, has pledged his full support for the upcoming Onye-Eze Football Tournament as part of his commitment to promote youth development through sports in Awka.
Mr. Onuko made this known during a courtesy visit by the organizers of the tournament at his office in Awka.
In his remarks, the Managing Director, ACTDA, Mr. Onuko emphasized the unifying power of sports, noting that sports is one of the social activities capable of uniting enemies to become friends.
The ACTDA Boss while lauding the efforts of Gov. Soludo in advancing the state’s development across all sectors, stressed that despite limited infrastructure such as stadium, sporting activities are key to bringing people together, foster unity and peaceful coexistence.
He further assured the organizers of his assistance in making the tournament a success, noting that Gov. Soludo’s administration loves youths and their development, hence his support.
“It’s not easy to come by money these days, but I am committed to supporting this initiative to unite our youth and encourage their positive development. I commend your efforts and urge you to continue the good work,” Onuko said.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman, Organizing Committee of Onye-Eze Football Competition, Mr. Christopher Uzoh, expressed gratitude to Mr. Onuko for his support.
Mr. Uzoh explained that the tournament now in its second edition, is being sponsored by Chief Samuel Ekwunife, aimed at engaging youths from the 33 villages in Awka to help address youth restiveness and promote community unity.
The chairman who urged all the youths in Awka to cue and participate actively in the tournament, insisted that the initiative would steer youths away from negative influences such as drug abuse and violence, by engaging them in meaningful and positive activities.
The Onye-Eze Football Championship will kick off on Oct. 12, with the final match scheduled for Dec. 29, 2024, at the Awka City Stadium.
*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Amawbia Community in Awka South LGA, Anambra State, has celebrated 2024 New Yam Festival, popularly known as Iwa Ji among the people of Igbo extraction, gave Community Service Award to outstanding members for their contributions to the development of Amawbia and humanity.
The event, which took place on Sept. 21, started with paying homage to Osojeze Amawbia, Arc. Emeka Maduka in his palace before going to the Event Centre at the New Era, Amawbia.
Cutting the yam in his palace, Osojeze said that Iwa Ji festival is to thank God for bountiful harvest, praising God for growth and human flourishing, an event that promotes values like hard work, explaining that soiled hands brings oily mouth.
He noted that the ceremony was called ‘Iru otite’ in Amawbia before it was modernized to Iwa Ji, thanking God for giving the community another opportunity to celebrate with family, friends and well-wishers the gift of life and new yam.
The traditional prime minister extolled Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s giant strides in all sectors, especially in Agriculture, pleading with him to look into annual crops like improved tomato, cucumber and pumpkin seeds for family sustenance this critical period, encouraging all to embrace farming even if it is backyard farming.
He also advised parents to ensure that their children behave according to the norms and values of the society and eschew restiveness.
At the Amawbia Event Centre, Prof. Lilian Oby Orogbu, member representing Awka North and South Federal Constituency, said that she has the interest of Amawbia town at heart, noting that Amawbia’s name is embedded in African Union, emphasizing that credible, transparent, quality education and wisdom from God are what we want in governance.
While thanking Ndi Amawbia for their unwavering support, Prof. Orogbu promised to leave her signature projects in the community.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Tony Collins Nwabunwanne, represented by the Administrative Secretary Traditional Rulers Council, Government House Awka, Prince Donatus Orjika, noted that the ceremony is a special one for Ndi Amawbia.
According to him, Iwa Ji festival helps to unite the community, celebrate their uniqueness; a time to make merry and pray for the progress of the community.
He wished Ndi Amawbia peace, unity and prosperity, praying that anyone who would emerge as the next Okpaligwe should be a man of peace.
While noting the economic crisis in Nigeria, the commissioner advised the Igbos, especially the youths to take life easy, engage themselves meaningfully and avoid acts capable of bringing curses on them.
The President General (PG), Amawbia Town, Engr. Goddy Aronu welcomed all, saying that some community members will be honored with recognition awards for their outstanding contributions and achievements toward human and community development to inspire others to strive for excellence, emphasizing that dedication and hard work are rewarded.
The Awardees are Dr Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, DG Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Pharm Emeka Okafor Nwachukwu, Iyom Josephine Anenih, Esq,mni,FNIM, Engr. Arize Obi, Chief Mrs Oge-Chukwudi Okonkwo and Engr. Arize Anyadiegwu.
Engr. Aronu thanked the people for their unflinching support, wishing those that graced the occasion journey mercies back to their destinations.
The Awardees in their separate speeches thanked the community for finding them worthy of the recognition even as they promised to do more.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Pharm. Emeka Nwachukwu, represented by Nze Amobi Nwoye, noted that Iwa Ji festival is not alien to the community.
He praised the leadership of Amawbia and prayed for more successful celebrations going forward.
In an interview, the image maker of Amawbia community, Engr. Nzubechukwu Menuba said that Iwa Ji festival is significant in Igbo land, noting that yam is the mother of all crops, urging all to embrace farming.
He thanked President Tinubu’s administration for local government elections for grassroots development even as he commended Gov. Soludo for giving a fair playground for all political parties to contest.
Engr. Menuba, who is contesting for Councilorship position for Amawbia Ward II, under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noted that he is the best and if given the opportunity to serve will perform creditably.
Also in an interview, the Chairman, Amawbia Youth Vanguard, Mr. Chukwunenye Nwalusi, prayed for progress, long life and peace in the community, asking God to bless the leaders of the community with more wisdom to uprightly serve well.
He thanked Gov. Soludo for empowering the youths through 1Youth 2Skills Solution program to enable them to be independent and self reliant, urging the youths to utilize the opportunity, engage themselves meaningfully.
Alhaji Mamood Sani, Sarki Hausa Community commended Ndi Amawbia for being their host, and the unity that exists between them, praying for peace and progress in the community.
Nze Chukwukadibia Odumodu, Chairman Enuoji Village during interview, said that the ceremony is symbolic; a time to thank God for a bountiful harvest, explaining that in March, seedlings were blessed during Eziokpaligwe, planted and harvested, followed by Iwa Ji festival in September to thank God for bumper harvest.
He prayed God to remember Amawbia and for individuals to embrace farming, explaining that he has joined the train.
Engr. Arinze Obi in an interview said that he has received many community development awards to the glory of God for impacting positively on the community, which he said would spur him to do more, praying God to give him the resources and enablement even as he thanked the community for the recognition.
Earlier, the Chairman of Eke Oyibo Market, Amawbia, Mr. Ifesinachi Daniel Nwokoye fielding questions from the press after paying homage to Osojeze with his group at the palace said, “We are here to the glory of God for the New yam festival, to appreciate Osojeze for all his support, especially during the building collapse at the market.
He noted that a town without a market is not a community but a mere play ground.
According to him, we have prayed for the family of those who lost their lives during the incident. This Iwa Ji festival will serve as a heart cooling to the family. We have seen them one on one, touched them with what we have in the spirit of the ceremony.
The market chairman prayed that they shall live more years in good health to celebrate the festival harmoniously to the glory of God.
Also at the palace, one of the Okpaligwe aspirant, Dr. Emeka Obi in an interview, thanked God for the successful ceremony, praying God to give the community a good traditional ruler come next Okpaligwe selection.
He promised to foster unity, empower the youths and secure Amawbia land if selected the next Okpaligwe.
In a vote of thanks, the Cultural Committee Chairman, Mr. Chijioke Nwolisa thanked all who made out time to come and celebrate the Iwa Ji with Amawbia people, wishing them journey mercies back to their destinations.
Mr. Nwolisa also thanked the ATU leadership led by Engr. Aronu for their support even as he commended the cultural committee for working round the clock for the success of the event.
Enemma masquerade and women cultural dance added glamour to the occasion.
*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has flagged off the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) campaign for Local Government Elections holding on Sept. 28 across the 21 LGAs.
Flagging off the campaign at Dr Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, Gov. Soludo said that the opposition parties were afraid of APGA defeat and could not field candidates in many LGAs as a sign of already conceding defeat.
The governor charged the candidates to campaign harder in order to win the election with wide margin.
Dignitaries in attendance are the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Iyom Bianca Ojukwu, wife of the Late Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, members of the state executive council including the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Patrick Agha Mba .
Other groups include master trainers of the 1 youth 2 skills program numbering over 3000, party stakeholders and supporters from the 21 LGAs.
During the flag off, the APGA candidates were presented with party flags as flag bearers in their various LGAs.
*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
By Chizoba Okeke, Anastasia Agunwa and Gloria Abugu :
Anambra State House of Assembly has expressed dissatisfaction with Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company (SEEPCO) for its failure to employ even a single indigene of Anambra State in its multi-million-dollar oil exploration activities running in the state.
The concern was raised during an interrogation by the House Committee on Petroleum and Mineral Resources, led by the Chairman, Mr Chidiebele Ibemeka, who criticized the company’s disregard for local workforce.
Ibemeka emphasized that despite SEEPCO’s operations in Anambra since 2006, and active exploration in the Ogwuaniocha and Ogwuikpele communities in Ogbaru Council Area beginning in 2018, the company has not provided any meaningful employment opportunities to Anambra indigenes.
According to the lawmaker, when asked to present documentation detailing the local hiring efforts, SEEPCO failed to include any names from the state.
Apart from the employment issue, Ibemeka highlighted environmental concerns, including frequent oil spills and gas flaring caused by the company’s operations, stating that their operations have had detrimental effects on the livelihood and health of the communities.
The lawmaker lamented the company’s disregard for the people, stating that it is unacceptable for a business operating within the state’s borders to neglect the welfare and employment needs of Anambra’s citizens.
He noted that as representatives of the people, it is the duty of the lawmakers to safeguard the interests of Ndi Anambra and will not rest until all entitlements due to ndi Anambra are properly allocated and delivered.
Mr Ibemeka pledged that the house will continue to intensify efforts to hold SEEPCO accountable and to ensure that the company fulfills its corporate social responsibility with regards to Petroleum Industry Act, to the host communities, particularly in employment and environmental protections.
Recall that the Assembly directed SEEPCO to provide evidence that they have established a Host Communities’ Development Trust in compliance with Section 235(3) of the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA (2021); show proof that three percent of their annual budget has been paid for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024 and also submit documents detailing the projects executed as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility.
Further documentations requested included a NEEDs assessment of the host communities in line with Section 251 of the PIA, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment, and a plan for natural gas flare elimination and monetization, in accordance with Section 108 of the PIA.
The Assembly also demanded that the company present its decommissioning and abandonment plans, evidence of output metering for daily oil and gas production, a list of Ndi Anambra employed by the company, and proof of tax payments to the state since the company’s inception.
However, the company represented by General Manager of Community Relations and Security at SEEPCO, Mr. Austin Atuonah, presented other documents, excluding a list of Ndi Anambra employed by the company, partial proof of tax payments to the state and a plan for natural gas flare elimination and monetization.
* Okeke, Agunwa and Abugu are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) has enjoined Market Leaders, Traders and Importers under the auspices of Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) to collaborate with SON in combating the proliferation of substandard products saying that together they could build a healthier, more prosperous, and successful nation.
Speaking during the Public/Stakeholders sensitization in Onitsha, Anambra State, the Director General/Chief Executive of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke explained that the objective of the ongoing nationwide stakeholder sensitization programmes was not only to educate operators on the provisions of the SON Act No. 14 of 2015 but also to enhance stakeholder engagement and foster stronger collaborations.
The DG, represented by the Director, Public Relations Department of the SON, Mrs Folusho Bolaji noted that the theme of the sensitization is “SON requirements and Compliance Monitoring Activities to Curb Influx and Sale of Substandard Products in Nigeria’’, and the primary objective is not only to raise awareness on all SON activities and related issues but also to enhance collaboration among stakeholders as well as foster productive partnerships, particularly in alignment with the ongoing initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to revamp the nation’s economy.
“SON is mandated to eliminate substandard products from Nigerian markets while improving the quality of life through standardization and quality assurance,which is why we urge everyone to join in upholding the highest standards and ensuring strict compliance with quality assurance protocols essential for sustainable business growth.
“Standardization plays an important role in supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), considering the fact that MSMEs are key to advancing the nation’s industrial and economic growth, which is one of the key reasons we have assembled today to encourage all stakeholders in Onitsha to adhere to laid down procedures for the benefit of both parties and consumer safety.
“SON is committed to ensuring the quality and safety of both locally produced and imported goods for consumption, while also protecting manufacturers and importers through strategic investments in quality infrastructure aimed at supporting businesses and promoting trade. We rigorously monitor all regulated products to ensure they undergo our certification process and adhere to both national and international standards”.
“We require that all products manufactured in Nigeria be certified under the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) through SON’s Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) for locally produced goods, the SON Offshore Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) for imported products and the most recently introduced ProductAuthentication Mark (PAM), a sticker that offers an additional layer of assurance for consumers on product quality. The certification is vital for product competitiveness and end-user safety”.
“As a leading provider of ISO Management Systems training, SON continuously updates its programs to reflect international best practices and standards. We encourage operators to certify their products through SON to boost the global competitiveness of Nigerian-made goods and services. By adhering to these standards, we can promote local brands, attract investments, and replicate the success seen in other global economies”, he said.
The DG/CE further revealed that the recent surge in seizures of counterfeit products in the country was alarming, saying that the confiscation of these substandard goods, valued at billions of naira, represents a significant loss not only to the perpetrators but to the entire Nigerian economy.
The SON Director Inspectorate and Compliance, Manji Pious Lawan assured participants that SON, as the federal body responsible for developing product and service standards and ensuring compliance through conformity assessments, provides a level playing field for manufacturers, importers, exporters, and consumers. It is our expectation that operators will meet and exceed consumer expectations.
“SON is empowered by the SON Act to prosecute those involved in the distribution of counterfeit and substandard goods through the federal courts. While these challenges persist, we remain steadfast in our mission to combat counterfeiters and protect the economy, no matter the individuals, sectors, or regions involved. With enhanced monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, we are better equipped to track down and prosecute these economic saboteurs”.
Manji Lawan further advised both manufacturers, traders and consumers to feel free to access SON offices for guidance, assistance or complaints saying that activities of some middlemen/agents sometimes misrepresent the real facts about registration fees and processes which are not in any way meant to witch-hunt any person, group or product.
Earlier in his response, ASMATA PG, Chief Humphrey Anuna thanked SON for the sensitization and awareness program, assuring that he will ensure that Anambra traders, Importers and manufacturers within the markets who were yet to comply with SON registration and standardization will do so, adding that Governor Chukwuma Soludo was someone who upholds due process and desires a healthy, liveable and prosperous Anambra State and Nigeria in extension.
“Henceforth, there is zero tolerance for any fake or substandard product in Anambra markets. ASMATA will assist SON in every way possible to make sure they carry out their duties for the health, safety of citizens and for the growth of both individuals’ businesses and Nigerian economy,” said Anuna.
Highlight of the event was presentation of a copy of the SON Constructional Act booklet to the ASMATA PG for proximity and accessibility of Anambra traders.
* Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
In line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision to equip every youth in the state with skills through the “One-Youth-Two Skill Programme,” the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism is preparing to train approximately 100 young individuals in film production and the creative industry. This initiative aims to create “Anawood,” which will be an umbrella and identity for those producing films in Anambra State, as well as enhance the socio-economic well-being of the state and tell the true story of the Igbo people.
The training will take place at the Anambra Film Village, located within the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) premises. It will cover approximately 24-25 courses, including cinematography, props and set management, script writing, entrepreneurship, acting, make-up, directing, sound management, online content creation, costume and fashion designing, among others.
The Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, emphasized that the training aimed at providing youth with the opportunity to join the global movement by equipping themselves with skills in content creation, film production, cinematography, editing, post-production, marketing, among others, that will help to promote and market the true culture and core values of the Igbo people.
He noted that besides agriculture, the creative industry is a major source of employment and with the rise of social media, many individuals are earning money from various sectors through content creation.
“In Nigeria, our people were instrumental in the formation of Nollywood through its first film, “Living in Bondage,” which broke new ground and propelled Nigerians into film production. Today, Nollywood has earned billions of naira, and Nigerian films are making waves throughout Africa.
“As part of the One-Youth-Two Skills initiative, this program offers multiple skills, and I thank the governor, Prof Charles Soludo, for providing the opportunity for you to gain functional and productive training in film production,” he said.
He then called on the students to be disciplined, obedient, serious, and creative, noting that the training would officially start on Monday.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Anambra Film Village, Mrs. Chinyere Ozoh-Okoma, stated that the training will run for four months, focusing more on practical skills. “What we are doing here is One-Youth-Two Skills in filmmaking, and we will train them in all aspects of film production so that they will understand the entrepreneurial part of filmmaking. We will also create a platform for them to upload their works and collaborate on content creation.
“We want to ensure that filmmaking in Nigeria, especially those that concern Ndi Igbo, reflects our culture of hard work, honesty, and brotherhood. We aim to teach them to tell our stories in a way that promotes our rich cultures and core values, steering away from the portrayal of rituals and the quick-money syndrome, which is not representative of our culture.”
One of the students, Menje Innocencia Chukwuamaka, a graduate of Adult Education from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, expressed gratitude to Governor Charles Soludo for allowing them to be trained in film production. She stated that she opted for costume, make-up, and entrepreneurship.
She then called on every youth in the state to seize every opportunity to learn new skills and develop themselves instead of being idle.
* Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has visited Borno State to sympathize with the government and people of the State over the rampaging flood that devastated the State.
Gov. Soludo, in his address, expressed deep sympathy for the people of Borno State.
He said, “In times of adversity, we must stand united as one Nigeria. The resilience of the Borno people in the face of numerous challenges is truly inspiring. This natural disaster tests our collective strength, but I am confident that with support from all quarters, Borno will not only recover but emerge stronger.
“Our hearts go out to every family affected by this calamity, and we pledge our continued support in whatever capacity we can offer”.
The visit coincided with the visit by the delegation of Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF) led by AIG. Chris Ezike (rtd).
The Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF), in a powerful demonstration of solidarity and humanitarian support, made a significant contribution to alleviate the suffering of flood victims in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Following the devastating collapse of the Alau Dam along the Ngadda River, SEOF has stepped forward with a generous donation of N200 Million, 2000 units of Mama Kits, and 20 units of Midwifery kits valued at N38million.
In his remark, the delegation from SEOF led by AIG Ezike said that the Foundation is known for its dedication to empowering the vulnerable and less privileged in the society.
He reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment saying;
“The Sir Emeka Offor Foundation stands firmly with the people of Borno State during this challenging period. Our donation is more than just material support; it is a message of hope and solidarity. We are committed to working closely with the Borno State Government to ensure that these resources reach those who need them most.
“Our Foundation believes in the resilience of the human spirit, and we are confident that together, we can overcome this adversity and build a stronger, more resilient community”.
On the sympathy visit also was the SEOF Partners, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare led by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. K. S. Daju and her team which included the Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, the Chief of Health at UNICEF, Mr. Eduardo Celades and the Emergency Preparedness and Response Cluster Lead of the World Health Organization, Dr. Ann Fortin.
The delegation’s visit extended beyond official meetings, encompassing visits to key locations including the Palace of the Shehu of Borno and the Bakasi camp; one of the largest IDP camps in the state. These visits provided firsthand insights into the scale of the disaster and the immediate needs of the affected population.
The Sir Emeka Offor Foundation’s swift and substantial response to this crisis set a commendable example of corporate social responsibility and humanitarian aid. As Maiduguri begins its journey toward recovery, the support from SEOF and other organizations will play a crucial role in rebuilding lives and restoring hope to the affected communities.
*Sunday is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The newly appointed Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has described the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo as a Statesman who craves for development and legacies, not a politician.
Commissioner Mefor said this today Sept. 20, during a courtesy visit by the Odenigbo FM media team in his office at the Jerome Udorji Secretariat complex, Awka.
Addressing the group, Dr. Mefor expressed his gratitude, saying that Gov. Soludo’s achievements have been under reported which gave rise to skepticism but with the help of journalists, the government achievements will be given a wide coverage.
He promised to take the journalists on a project tour for fact findings and a balanced reportage while stating that Gov. Soludo remains the only governor with a rage blueprint to transform Anambra State with the hallmark of intervention in terms of fiscal infrastructure which is doable and requires time.
He also promised to get the governor on their side and carry the journalists along to make sure that Gov.Soludo achievements comes to light so that Ndi-Anambra can queue in this romantic journey.
The leader of Odenigbo media team, Mr. Ogemdi Ozoemenam said that their visit was to familiarise with the new commissioner and as well, pledge their support to make his work easy.
Mr. Ozoemena commended the commissioner for his passion and support in making sure that Gov. Soludo’s vision comes to reality, noting that the media is ready to give a factual and a balanced reportage to bring Ndi-Anambra into government.
*Henrietta is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
No fewer than 700 Nnobi indigenes have been enrolled into the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA).
The sponsors of this enrollment includes; Sir Pius Ufudo Foundation, Nnobi US Diaspora Health Group, and Okigbo family.
The event, held at Sir Pius Ufudo Complex in St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Nnobi featured a sensitization session by ASHIA representative, Dr Ngozi Ifediora.
Dr. Ifediora assured that ASHIA facilities in the community can handle the enrollees health issues, and will make referrals when need arises.
She noted that there will be a monitoring team to ensure that the enrollees make good use of the opportunity, especially for medical checkups, adding that those found wanting shall be replaced, saying that there is a plan to ensure that ASHIA beneficiaries access healthcare services in any part of the country.
On his part, an indigenous private medical practitioner with facility in the community, Dr Mike Omenugha, who gave testimonies of benefits of the scheme to ASHIA beneficiaries, thanked the sponsors for their humanitarian gesture, calling for people to regularly do medical checkups, avoid self-medication and patronizing quacks.
Some beneficiaries, including Mr Gilbert Oguegbulu and Mrs Lucy Obeleagu commended their benefactors for the opportunity to access quality healthcare at little or no cost. Some of the 464 ASHIA beneficiaries of the previous year, attended the event.
*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
