Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

DMGS BUILDING COLLAPSE: PANEL SWINGS INTO ACTION, CONSULTANTS TESTIFY

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Panel on the collapsed Centenary Building of the Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha has commenced hearing over the incident.

During the proceeding, four key persons involved in the construction of the building were called to testify before the Panel.

Consultant Structural Engineer, Engr Dr Chris Oyeka said that a detailed, difficult, technical assessment with a clear plan would be required to determine the cause of the collapse.

He described the incident as aberation, saying he was professionally inquisitive to know the actual cause of the collapse.

While testifying on the approval documents, Oyeka confirmed that he was a member of the DMGS Centenary team that submitted the approval application at the Anambra State Physical Planning Board (ANSPPB).

On the comment that the approval document was labelled “provisional approval”, the consultant stated, “that has been a longstanding and verifiable custom and practice of the planning approval bodies, and consequently invited the panel to contact the ANSPPB on the issue.

He explained issues raised by the panel on Expansion Joint and Base Size of the Columns.

Responding on questions regarding supervision of the construction, Onyeka confirmed that he usually visited the site twice a week and in the course, carried out regular inspections with Engr Nweke whose professional competence he said he respected.

The Contractor, Engr Chinedu Ibeabuchi, the Director of Optimum Works Ltd explained to the panel that he was both a registered engineer with COREN and a registered builder.

He also testified that he had worked professionally and effectively with the technical team and had always cross checked details with the supervising engineer, saying that he had always implemented with scrupulous diligence the engineering and architectural drawings.

Also speaking, former Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Onitsha Chapter, Engr Davidson Nweke provided detailed professional answers to all the technical questions put to him by the panel.

Nweke, a retired seasoned engineer who had worked for the State Government, however confirmed he had not yet renewed his COREN registration.

Project Architect, Arc Chidubem Olisa while explaining his drawings and on the issue of the placement of columns, said the architect positioned the columns and the structural engineer had the authority on the size of the columns.

Chairman of the panel, Engr Sir Victor Meju who is also Chairman, Anambra State Chapter of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), while adjourning the proceeding for the day, thanked all for coming and told the technical team that they would be re-invited if needed.

Ugokwe is of the State Ministry of Information

ANAMBRA PHILANTHROPIST PICKS AFRICA’S ILLUSTRIOUS AWARD —- SENEGAL’S PRESIDENT, GOV OTTI ALSO

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

A Philontropist, Dr Paul Chukwuma has picked the prestigious African Illustrious Award 2024, alongside the President of Senegal, Bassirou Doamaye Faye and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State

The honour was for their respective numerous community development efforts in their chosen areas.

This rare gesture was bestowed on only few very distinguished community development driven African leaders by the African Media Group.

It was particularly for Dr Chukwuma’s profound impact on citizens of his Umueri community in Anambra East Council of Anambra State, and environs

In his citation, Dr Chukwuma received a thunderous standing ovation for his transformative community development initiatives, especially the construction of access roads and support for the underprivileged.

It was disclosed that he had undertaken the cost of Senior

School Certificate Examination(SSCE) and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination(UTME) fees for One thousand(1,000) and Five hundred(500) students respectively, in Anambra State.

This gesture according to records from the state has been on for years through his Sir Paul Chukwuma Foundation. It was revealed also, has continued showcasing his steadfast commitment to education, youth and human resource development.

The African Illustrious Award aims to honor outstanding Africans who have made substantial contributions to the development of African societies.

Chukwuma who was represented at the award ceremony by Chief Hillary Udanoh dedicated the honour to citizens of Anambra State.

He admitted that Dr Chukwuma’s efforts to enhance lives and address economic disparities through impactful philanthropy, was already being recognized and appreciated by those that matters in the world.

That he has consistently reaffirmed his dedication to improving access to quality education and living standards of the people through strategic investments.

Udanoh who received the award on his behalf commended the African Media Group, other recipients, friends and well wishers who thronged the main hall of the Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island Lagos for the event for their love and support.

GOVERNOR SOLUDO INAUGURATES MEMBERS OF GOVERNING COUNCIL CHUKWUEMEKA ODUMEGWU OJUKWU UNIVERSITY

By Okoli Sunday :

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has inaugurated the governing council for Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, with the following members:

Prof. Chidi Odinkalu as Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, AIG Chris Ezike (rtd), Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu,

HRH Igwe Chris Chidume Oranu and Chief Christopher Ndubuisi

Also inaugurated were the members of the Senate Representative to the Council

Performing the ceremony at the Council Hall, Government House, Awka, Governor Chukwuma Soludo expressed his gratitude to the council members for accepting to serve the state, describing it as an honour. He charged them to make a meaningful impact by transforming the university into a world-class institution renowned for excellence in character and learning. The Governor also outlined the council’s terms of reference, emphasizing their critical role in shaping the university’s future.

In his acceptance speech on behalf of others, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu (Pro-Chancellor/Chairman) thanked Mr. Governor for the opportunity to serve Ndi Anambra, pledging to do their best to deliver on their new assignment.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Commissioners among others witnessed the ceremony.

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

2025 ELECTION: APGA SOLIDARITY MOVEMENT ONITSHA SOUTH INAUGURATED, HONORS PARTY NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, OTHERS

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA) Solidarity Movement Onitsha South Local Government Area has inaugurated its LG working committees, Ward Executives, honoured the Party National Chairman, Mr Sly Ezeokenwa (Esq) and other party members who have helped in one way or the other in the development of the party

The National Convener of the group, Sir Ebere Okafor charged the newly inaugurated members to go to all nooks and crannies of the state to convert people by propagating the good works of Mr Governor to them.

According to him, “we inaugurate the 17 wards that make up Onitsha south LG today to propagate the good works of the governor, we have to support him because he is doing very well. Over 700 executives from ward levels to LG level converge here today and they have been successfully inaugurated.

“The expectation is that they should go to their various wards and begin to propagate the good works of the governor who has been doing too many things especially in Onitsha South, Okpoko now known as New Haven, every where in Onitsha is serene environment with good road network.

“That is why ASM has been on course to make it go viral that we are supporting the government that is doing the best”, he advised.

He lauded the people of the area, saying that it is their nurture to the national chairman who is from the area that made him(the national chairman) to be where he is today, thanked them for giving the party a reliable product as the national chairman.

The inauguration Chairman, Mr. Buchi Uzoechina, who is also the Onitsha South Protocol Officer earlier in his speech urged those that will be inaugurated to champion the governor wherever they found themselves and assured the national convener of the group that onitsha south ASM will not disappoint them.

The Onitsha South Local Government APGA Chairman, Mr Uchenna Nnabuenyi in his words extolled the group for their turnout, charged them to be up to their expectations and disclosed that many people are in more than two or three support groups, he warned them to leave the group for the new people because more and new people are needed in the party.

The Special Adviser to the governor on Special Duties, Mr Onyebuchi Obi, who is also among those to be nominated by the governor for Onitsha South LG Chairman said that he witnessed a huge turnout of people, stating that the solidarity In the name was experienced today.

”It is a sign of new face of APGA saddled by Mr Governor in the state with the evidence of his good governance in road infrastructure, free education, free antenatal, not leaving the environmental aspects of it.

“It is a call to duty and a call to reciprocate the works of our Governor in Onitsha South , for them to have present themselves to be inaugurated today shows their sincere solidarity”, he said.

The Onitsha South LG Coordinator, APGA Support Movement, Mr Chinedu Okoro in an interview with newsmen disclosed that after the inauguration, they will start ward tour which will be for the campaign for Governor Soludo’s re-election.

“ I promised Governor Soludo 21/21 because he has helped us now for his re- election, unlike the previous election which had some hitches because of situation of things, with these works on ground and other things he is doing now, his reelection is assured, undisputable”,he boasted.

”We will fish out those people that belongs to more than one, two support groups, we will not like the executives to belong to this new support groups, they are trooping into it because it was formed by Hon Sly Ezeokenwa with the Governor, forgetting that the purpose is the same.

“We are to convert other party members and fill them as the executives because we need more people in the party so that the party will be growing”.

He lauded the Chief Executive Officer, Admin Oil and Gas, Chief Promise Egbeji for his support towards the development of the party, noting that he was behind the financial contribution that made the inauguration a success.

The National Chairman, Mr Sly Ezeokenwa (Esq) was represented by the National Women Leader, Mrs Ngozi Obidike, Others honoured at the event were the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mrs Beverly Ikpeazu Nkemdiche represented by the Vice Chairman Odoakpu ward 1, Agozie Chiagozie Nzeakor, The CEO Admin Oil and Gas, Chief Promise Egbeji, APGA Chairman Onitsha South LG, Mr Uchenna Umennakenyi and other dignitaries that witnessed the event.

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

ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY PASSES ENVIRONMENTAL BILL

By Chizoba Okeke, Anastasia Agunwa, Gloria Abugu :

The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed the Environmental Management, Protection, and Administration Bill, 2024.

This follows Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s assent to 11 bills passed by the Assembly earlier today.

The bill, passed during today’s plenary session, seeks to provide a legal framework for the management, protection, and sustainability of the environment in Anambra State.

The bill successfully passed its third reading after deliberations and consideration at the Committee of the Whole. The Majority Leader, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, moved a motion for the third reading and passage, which was seconded by the member representing Nnewi North Constituency, Honourable Augustine Ike.

The Speaker, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, read the bill for the third time and announced its passage after it garnered wide support from the lawmakers.

He appreciated the legislators for their efforts throughout the stages of the bill, stating that it truly reflects their commitment towards making Anambra a better place.

MD ASBA SAYS SOLUDO PROVIDES SUCCOUR TO CIVIL SERVANTS AFTER RETIREMENT

By Chiamaka Edokwe :

Amidst economic uncertainties where budgets tighten and expenses scrutinized, the Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s Administration through Anambra State Small business Agency(ASBA),has provided succor for civil servants after retirement through the ASBA Civil Servant Solution Retirement Entrepreneurship Loan Scheme.

According to the MD/CEO ASBA, Mr Clement Chukwuka during a media chat in his office complex, the scheme aimed at supporting civil servants to have a thriving business to fall back on after service.

“Gov. Soludo’s Administration is very passionate about the workers’ welfare even after retirement hence his willingness to supporting and funding their means of livehood after retirement.”

Mr Chukwuka reiterated that the Agency’s mandate remained to ensure that poverty is reduced to its bearest minimum through funding and capacity building.

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

GOVERNMENT FLAGS OFF OKO POLYTECHNIC’S TREE PLANTING EXERCISE

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government has flagged off tree planting campaign initiated by the Federal Polytechnic Oko for the protection and conservation of environmental ecosystem.

Performing the symbolic tree planting exercise under its”Operation Go Green” at the institution’s premises,the State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor noted that the gesture would help regulate the climate and ensure ecosystem stability.

The Commissioner who was ably represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka, said protecting the environment is among the government’s vision to transform the state into a liveable, prosperous mega city.

He posited that the state has been bedevilled by deforestation, hence the need to engage in mass tree planting, adding that the idea is to mobilize every student to plant at least one tree.

“Every student of the school should have one tree planted.This campaign should also be taken to homes and other institutions.Ndi Anambra should plant trees, if you fell one tree, you plant at least five trees”

While urging Ndi Anambra to not only plant trees to ensure healthy living, check erosion and guard against global warming, he underscored the need to nurture them until they grow up.

The Acting Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr Uche Onyegbu, described the event as a noble exercise and in fulfillment of already mapped out policy of the institution on environmental protection, conservation and aesthetics.

He explains that the institution understands the importance of protecting the environment, hence considered it worthy to embark on the exercise to also prevent gully erosion already threatening structures in the institution.

Dr Uchegbu, then, appealed to the state government to partner the school in its effort to control identified gully erosion sites, calling for more collaboration in the area of establishment of School of Agriculture at its Ufuma campus.

Contributing, a Former Board Member, National Board For Technology Incubation and member of Academic Staff Union of the Research Institute, Hon Cletus Amaraegbu, urged the institution’s management to take full ownership of the Tenera Specie high yielding oil palm and coconut seedlings.

A Nollywood Actor recognised as the face of the “Operation Go Green”initiative, Mr Stephen Eboh, outlined other benefits of the exercise to include revenue generation, erosion control and other economic derivables.

He pointed out that with the commencement of the exercise, the institution has set the pace in the comity of higher institutions of higher learning in promoting environmental friendly ecosystem.

In a Vote of Thanks, the Acting Registrar of the institution Mr Obini Onuchukwu, called on those who still engage in deforestation to desist, noting that it is the major cause of the present global warming the whole world is experiencing.

He commended the State Governor, Prof Charles Soludo, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, Hon Amaraegbu and other Principal Officers of the institution for their contributions and support services towards the realisation of the project.

Mr Onuchukwu, added that the institution will partner the State Ministry of Agriculture to develop Aqua-culture and related activities at its Atani campus.

In attendance at the ceremony were, Deputy Rector, Dr Ken Ezekwe, Bursar, Mr Stephen Udu amongst others.

Ugokwe is of the State Ministry of Information

ANAMBRA STATE LAUNCHES AMBITIOUS TREE PLANTING AND URBAN FORESTATION INITIATIVE

By Lilian Akpunonu :

The Anambra State Ministry of Environment has launched a massive tree planting and urban forestation initiative on June 10 at the Orpet Filling Station (Ez Electronics and Furniture) Agu Awka, aimed at planting millions of trees across the state, revive eroded lands, and beautify the environment.

The wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has emphasized the importance of trees in the ecosystem, encouraging residents to support the state’s tree planting and urban forestation initiative.

She suggested a hotline for reporting tree cutting, highlighting the need for collective action in protecting the environment.

Speaking at the launch, the Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Felix Odimegwu, emphasized the importance of trees in maintaining ecological balance, producing oxygen, and supporting wildlife.

He noted that trees play a crucial role in climate regulation, soil erosion control, and noise pollution reduction.

According to him, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification reports that up to 40% of the planet’s land is degraded, affecting half of the world’s population.

He noted that since the inception of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo’s Administation, Anambra State has launched several green initiatives, including the “One House, Two Trees” campaign, 35% green spacing initiative, and cut-one-plant-three initiative.

The commissioner said that the state government distributed and planted over one million hybrid Malaysian coconut trees and oil palms seedlings annually.

He went further to highlight the Key reforestation projects which include the Unizik Forest Reserve, Enugwu Ukwu erosion site, Ekwueme Square, and the Anambra State House of Assembly.

The launch of greening projects at Amazon Estates and other sites aimed to enhance ecological and climate resilience.

The vision is to see Anambra’s streets, roads, and highways adorned with trees, creating a green canopy.

He stressed that 200 trees will be planted today, including Strep trees, Tujar, Queen Palms, and Asoka trees.

The planting will start from Revenue House to Book Foundation and extend to Onitsha and other towns over time.

The Commissioner urged citizens to join the greening journey, saying, “Trees are our lifelines, and without them, our world would become barren and lifeless. Let us act now for a greener tomorrow”.

He also said that the gift trees is also given as birthday souvenirs to important personalities to encourage personal involvement in nurturing the environment.

The initiative is part of the state’s efforts to enhance ecological and climate resilience, and create a green canopy across Anambra State.

Prof. Kate Omenugha, Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), expressed support for the initiative and pledged to ensure its success.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mr Obodogha Tochukwu, highlighted today’s planting as a step toward a Greener future, a continuous effort that shapes a better tomorrow. Let’s join forces to make a lasting impact for our Environment.

Dr. John obodo, The founding Director, Sahelian Institute for Bamboo Research and Entrepreneurship Development (SIBRED) was represented by Dr. Achugbu Adaeze who commended the commissioner’s effort and pledged to support the initiatives.

In their Goodwill message, Prof Ngozi Ezenwa-Ohaeto commended Gov. Soludo’s initiatives of planting trees in Anambra State.

Prof Philip Phil Eze, The Managing Director and chief Executive officer of Anambra State Erosion, Watershed and Climate Change Agency(ASEWCA) commended the Governor’s initiatives and pledged support for the initiative.

House of Assembly member, Mr Eze Golden Ilo, commended the Government Environmental initiatives.

Architect Mike Okonkwo, Chairman, Anambra Urban Regeneration Council (AURC), thanked the governor for his vision that was implemented today and emphasize the importance of securing a greener future for tomorrow.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment, Tourism and Culture, Bobmanuel Udokwu said, “by planting today, we are investing in a greener environment tomorrow no matter how we see it, it is a continuous process. Let’s sustain this vision of our Governor’s initiatives and create a sustainable Environment for generations to come.

*Lilian is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: ANAMBRA MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT JOINS GLOBAL CELEBRATION

By Lilian Akpunonu :

The Anambra State Ministry of Environment joined the international community in commemorating World Environment Day (WED), 2024, a United Nations initiative celebrated annually on June 5th. This year’s theme, “Our Land, Our Future: Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought,” highlights the urgent need to address land degradation, which affects over 40% of global land and half of the world’s population.

According to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, land degradation costs the global economy up to 12% of its GDP, equivalent to $4.7 trillion annually. In Anambra State, land degradation has led to soil erosion, flooding, and loss of biodiversity, affecting the livelihoods of millions of people.

The Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, emphasized the importance of restoring land values through sustainable environmental practices. He stressed that land degradation is a significant contributor to erosion in the state and urged citizens to take proactive steps towards environmental conservation.

He explained that the ministry has set achievable goals and planned activities, events, and policy amendments to combat land degradation and promote a cleaner, greener, and sustainable Anambra State. Part of the initiatives is to Plant more trees across the state.

The celebration is part of the global “Generation Restoration” movement, which aims to unite people worldwide in restoring the environment for future generations.

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

EEDC TO COMMENCE MOBILE MAP METERING OF “BAND A” CUSTOMERS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has concluded plans to commence the metering of customers served by “Band A” feeders across its network through its mobile MAP metering initiative.

The exercise which is expected to kick off in Enugu on Tuesday, June 11th, 2024, will focus on EEDC customers served by “Band A” feeders under its Ogui, Awkunanaw, and Abakpa districts.

The Head, Corporate Communications, EEDC. Mr. Emeka Ezeh, who made this known through a press statement, said the Mobile MAP metering approach is part of efforts by EEDC to ensure that customers under service “Band A” across its network are metered within 48 hours.

According to him, the company adopted this approach to ensure that the affected customers who enjoy minimum daily availability of 20 hours can begin to manage their energy consumption and pay for what they consume.

EEDC customers under Awkunanaw district, served by Topland 11KV, Gariki 11KV, Amaechi 33KV, and UNEC 11KV feeders are to visit the EEDC Service Center at Mayor Bus Stop, Agbani Road.

In the same vein, customers under Ogui District, served by New Haven 11KV, Abakaliki Road, 11KV, Power House 11KV, Chime Avenue 11KV, Onitsha Road 11KV, and Golf 11KV feeders, are to visit EEDC Ogui District office at Station Road, Enugu; while customers under Abakpa District served by Abakpa 3 11KV, Dhamija 11KV, Nowas 11KV, and Ugwuogo 33KV feeders are to visit Trans Ekulu Service Center.

Customers are expected to visit the mentioned locations with a valid form of identification (either Drivers License, Voters Card, NIN or International Passport) and a copy of their bills. Officials of EEDC will assist them with the MAP application process and installation of the meter will be made once payment is confirmed.

The MAP metering program allows customers to pay and get metered and reimbursed with the value of the cost of meter through energy over a period.

Ezeh affirmed that gradually, the exercise will be extended to other Band A feeders across EEDC franchise area.

Unmetered customers, especially those under service “Band A” are urged to take advantage of this program and get metered, bearing in mind that they will be reimbursed with the value of the cost of the meter through energy over a period.

This exercise is carried out by EEDC in conjunction with its MAPs (Meter Asset Providers) – MOJEC International Limited and Advanced Energy Management Services (AEMS).

MAP is a metering intervention designed and approved by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to close the existing metering gap in the power sector.