Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT SOLICITS DEEPER STRATEGIC INVESTMENT COOPERATION WITH CHINA

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government and a Delegation from the Peoples Republic of China have opened discussions that will coordinate cooperation in strategic developmental areas of interests to advance relationship between them.

An eight man delegation from China had visited the state to explore investment opportunities and collaboration in key sectors under “Anambra-China Shenzhen Great Bay Cooperation”

Setting the tune for commencement of meeting at Golden Tulip Hotel, Agulu,the State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, recalled that Gov had sought the possibility of China opening up production plants in the state.

While affirming the state government’s commitment to fostering lasting intercourse with China, he acknowledged that the footprint of the Chinese could be felt in almost everything.

He pointed out that China had contributed greatly to the successes recorded in the priority areas including agriculture, hence the need for an economic marriage for expansion and to add more value.

The Commissioner commended the relationship between China and Anambra State, expressing optimism that it would grow even better in the coming years.

Contributing,the State Commissioner For Industry, Mr Christian Udechukwu,highlighted abundant multi sectoral opportunities existing in the for partnership to include Power generation, Airport concessioning,Orient petroleum and petro chemical plant as well as Food Security, poultry and egg project.

He also identified development of industrial parks and Silicon Valley Solution Innovation District as one of the existing areas of support and collaboration.

A Member of the delegation,Wang Bo,said the meeting was vital to build a stronger relationship with the state for a shared future especially in areas of real estate, construction, design, industrial and solar plants.

He added that they would work out synergy to advance relationship in ensuring projects design and feasibility reports, resource integration capability as well as project financing.

Some of the facilitators of the visit including Destiny Osili and Jude Okwudiba of the Earth wheel Works, said the State and China had witnessed substantial progress in mutually beneficial cooperation as China had become one of the State’s top trading partners.

They said the decision by the Chinese delegation to visit the state was a reflection of the importance which China attached to her relationship with the state.

Some of the Commissioners and dignitaries on the state delegation included,Bar Tony Ifeanya, Commissioner For Petroleum, Dom Onyenji, Commissioner For Culture and Entertainment, Special Adviser on Security, Rtd Air Vice Marshall Ben Chiobi, Managing Director, Housing Corporation, Chike Anyaonu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka among Others

DR. NONYE SOLUDO FLAGGED OFF 2024 HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS VACCINE

Ifeanyi C. Nwegbo/Nnedimma Okeke/Chukwudi Nwauba :

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo has called on women and girls, aged 9-14 years to be allowed to embark on the important initiative of free human papilloma virus vaccine which promises to safeguard their health from cervical cancer for their well being.

Dr. Soludo made the called during flagging off ceremony of human papilloma virus vaccine at Micheal Tansi Memorial Secondary School, Aguleri.

She said that the vaccine will tackle a significant health challenge which might cause the death of our women in the country.

She also said that the vaccine is free as well as conducting free cervical screening in the health facilities in Anambra State to provide early detection to our women in the state at large.

Dr. Soludo commended the efforts of Anambra State Government through which the Ministry of Health and Anambra State Primary Health Centres and partnership with WHO, UNICEF, others as supporting the state government efforts by taken health campaign to the next level.

While speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike said that Gov. Chukwuma Soludo has done so well in the health sector of Ndi Anambra, mostly for picking interest in planning for children from the time they are conceived till they are grown.

Dr Obidike said, “In the first phase of papilloma virus vaccine, Anambra East Local Government Area participated very low and that is why they chose Anambra East.

He thanked Gov. Soludo for renovating Umueri General Hospital and the construction of Enugwu Otu General Hospital, Aguleri for the people living around that community.

The Executive Secretary Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Pharm. Chisom Uchem said that the essence of introducing this HPV vaccine is for a medical breakthrough that provides effective protection against the most harmful strains of virus.

She said that the decision to administer the HPV vaccine to girls 9 to14 years is guided by sound scientific evidence. At this age, the vaccine is most effective, providing a strong shield against the virus before any potential exposure.

According to her, this proactive approach will ensure that our girls have a better chance at a healthy future, free from the spectre of cervical cancer.

The Zonal Coordinator of South East World Health Organisation, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboeko thanked Gov. Soludo and his team for allowing the introduction of HPV vaccines in Anambra State in order to avoid cervical cancer.

He explained that the ravages of cervical cancer is real in our country at large, and urged parents to allow their children and women to take the vaccine.

Dr. Igboeko encouraged Anambra State Government to always support health because good health will yield a lot of potential dividend and political Capital for the government.

The Vice Chancellor of Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Prof. Kate Omenugha and Provost College of Education Nsugbe, Dr. Justina Anyadiegwu congratulated Gov. Soludo for strategic changes he brought to Anambra State at large.

She thanked Mrs Soludo for her care toward women and children in the state and promised that they will partner and mobilize people to make sure that this HPV Vaccine get to the target audience.

The Chairman House Committee on Health, Mr. Tony Muobuike thanked Gov. Soludo for keeping to his promise of offering free HPV Vaccine to the children and women of Anambra State.

He promised that House of Assembly will do all in their reach to make sure that Soludo’s mission and vision to this will come to manifestation.

The event attracted lots of dignitaries including Ndi Igwe, former TC Chairman Anambra East, Dr. Anselm Onuorah , Female professors of Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam and staff of Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe.

*The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

PROF. OFOEGBU CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING IN ANAMBRA

By Adaobi Nsofor :

Citizens of Anambra State have been urged to desist from illegal mining that would endanger their lives and slow down the economic activities of the state.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State Solid Mineral Development Company Limited, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu stated this during an interview in his office at the Government House, Awka.

Prof. Ofoegbu noted that mining which is one of the oldest economic activities in the state is being tampered with on a daily basis, which is a serious issue that shouldn’t be neglected.

He maintained that illegal mining can lead to environmental degradation including deforestation, soil erosion and water pollution which will in turn affect the eco system and increase poverty level especially among peasant farmers who depend solely on environmental resources for a living.

Prof Ofoegbu further emphasised that Anambra State is strongly positioned to build a thriving, socially responsible mineral industry that drives broad-based economic growth.

He believes that Anambra’s Mineral sector if fully optimised, can contribute massively to the state’s GDP, enable widespread industrialization and provide employment opportunities for the youths in the state.

According to him, the Soludo-led administration is determined to establish workable synergies between miners and the host communities in order to curtail the activities of the illegal miners in the state.

Prof. Ofoegbu who recalled that Governor Soludo had earlier in the year banned sand excavation in Anambra State following the discovery that it is fuelling the gully erosion menace in most communities in the state, called on Ndi Anambra to participate actively and benefit from the state’s mining sector by developing relevant skills that will enable socio economic upliftment.

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

PROF OMENUGHA HARPS ON IMPORTANCE OF PEACE TO HUMANITY, DESCRIBES IT AS ACT OF EVANGELISM

By Chizoba Njaka :

The Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Professor Kate Omenugha

has said that promoting peace and harmony is a form of evangelism, spreading love, kindness, and compassion.

Professor Omenugha stated this while delivering her paper, ‘Culture of Peace’, during the Annual Peace Advocate and Convention and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Peace and Leadership Centre’s multi-purpose building project, held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Awka.

According to Prof Omenugha, a culture of peace can only be achieved through the dedicated efforts of individuals. She emphasized that it requires a collective commitment, starting with one person and spreading to the entire society.

The former Commissioner for Basic Education stressed that conflict and lack of understanding would not bring peace but would only result to disorderliness in both families, society and the nation, adding that peace is paramount in everyone’s life.

She further noted that the absence of a culture of peace is a root cause of global crises. She emphasized that failing to cultivate peace has far-reaching consequences, particularly in Nigeria, where neglecting the law has led to more harm than good. This neglect, she stressed, has a profound impact on youth development, infrastructure, health, and the overall social wellbeing of young people, perpetuating cycles of suffering and hindering progress.

Professor Omenugha emphasized that children, the future leaders of tomorrow, deserve attention and investment for positive change. However, parents often prioritize exam success over genuine education, promoting malpractice and special centers.

She however, warned that a good citizen of the nation must endeavour to take part and be law abiding to make things work perfectly for the government and avoid any form of social vices.

She urged citizens to take responsibility, be law-abiding, and shun social vices to support the government. To embrace peace, she advocated for creating a society with justice and equity, where inter-ethnic dialogue, education, and responsible media promotion of peace are prioritized.

“For peace to exist we need to create a society where there is justice and equity.”

She stressed the importance of proactive justice, conscious language usage, and avoiding inflammatory words that can spark violence or problems. By working together, we can establish peace and foster a better future.

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

ASHIA MD PRESENTS ID CARDS TO 21 APGA EXCO MEMBERS FROM NNOBI WARD ONE ENROLLED BY OMENUGHA

By Chisom Okafor :

The Managing Director of Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA), Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, has presented beneficiary identity cards to the Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Youth Empowerment Programme, Dr. Nelson Omenugha, for the 21 executive members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) from Nnobi Ward One.

Additionally, Dr. Onyemaechi provided 21 pamphlets outlining the benefit package to ensure that the beneficiaries are fully informed and receive their entitled benefits.

During the card presentation at the ASHIA complex, Awka, Dr Onyemaechi, noted that the scheme has remained instrumental to quality and affordable healthcare services in Anambra.

He appreciated Dr Omenugha for the gesture and encouraged the beneficiaries to access the services and give feedback to the agency to enable them serve Ndi Anambra better.

Receiving the cards, Dr Omenugha, emphasized his interest in ensuring productivity through properly taking care of the people doing the work and his deepest concern on healthy living of his people.

He noted that getting his ward executive members enrolled into ASHIA is part of his contributions to the growth of APGA, good governance and Anambra State in general.

The Chairman of APGA, Nnobi ward one, Chief Frank-Iyke Ezeanya, in a vote of thanks appreciated Dr Omenugha for his support and Dr Onyemaechi for the good job he is doing in ASHIA.

He promised greater commitment to mobilizing support for Governor Soludo, growth of APGA and the state at large.

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

ASHIA INAUGURATES TWG FOR STRATEGIC HEALTH DEVELOPMENT PLAN

By Chisom Okafor :

The Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA), has inaugurated a Technical Working Group (TWG) comprising of key stakeholders on health to plan and develop a Strategic Health Development Plan that will last from 2024 to 2029.

The two day workshop took place at IDK learning Centre in Awka.

Declaring the event open, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike explained the importance of the TWG to think through on how to expand the health insurance coverage of the state particularly the informal sector and how to implement the mandatoriness of the scheme through innovative strategies of businesses providing evidence of health insurance certification before they can operate.

Dr. Obidike applauded the MD/CEO of ASHIA for representing the health insurance agency in Anambra and nationwide.

On his part, the Chairman, Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Mr Tony Muobike, spoke on success achieved with a predetermined plan (SHDP) and a strong legislative framework as the bedrock of every project.

He gave his support by promising necessary legislation with the House of Assembly or draft new legislations that will be passed in the House of assembly.

Giving an overview of the workshop, the Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi said that the plan will look carefully at how the agency will strategically increase their coverage to enroll more into the scheme, the practical steps they need to take to achieve their objectives.

Dr. Onyemaechi noted that because the staff of the agency are integral part of the stakeholders developing the plan, they will have an institutionalize memory of the document even when he must have exited the position in the future, expressing optimism that his would be successor will continue with the plan.

According to the ASHIA MD, the plan will equally bring out the practical steps they need to take on month-to-month and year -to-year bases, how to source the resources they will leverage on among others, describing the document as timely.

The event attracted relevant stakeholders, representatives of the National Health Insurance Agency, WHO, Anambra State Ministry of Agriculture, State Bureau of Statistics, Research Consultants, Ward Chairmen, Civil Society Organizations, others.

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

AWEF HONOURS GOV. SOLUDO FOR PROMOTING AKWETE FABRICS

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

African Weaving Festival (AWeF), has conferred an award of the “Pillar of Cultural Excellence in Promoting Akwete Heritage” to Governor Charles Soludo for his unwavering dedication to promoting the Akwete indigenous fabrics. The event took place at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Exhibition Pavilion, Abuja.

Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji expressed that Governor Soludo always demonstrates his avowed commitment to promoting the Nigerian economy through the patronage of made-in-Nigeria products and other local production which can ultimately salvage the economy and make Nigerians richer and happier.

He added that the Solution Governor approved the distribution of over N 2 billion to over five thousand youths across the state, who were trained under the “One-Youth-Two Skills” programme and another approval has been made to train and empower another batch of thousands of youths which will commence soon.

“Mr. Governor has always shown immense capacity for effective delivery in every office he handled both within and outside the country.”

The commissioner, who also wore his akwete outfits to the occasion, flipped online pictures of Mr. Governor’s various akwete outfits to the admiration of the excited audience.

The Coordinator of AWeF, Mrs. Lizi Ben-Iheanacho expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for his inspiring vision and leadership in reviving the akwete cultural treasure and also fostering the indigenous fashion values.

“Sir, your singular act of championing the akwete fabrics at every high-profile event has significantly elevated its contemporary value and as well instilled an immense pride in our indigenous akwete master-weavers, hence, leading to unprecedented prominence, patronage and a renewed sense of cultural patriotism.

“Also, your commitment to sustaining our African cultural identity while weaving a prosperous future for Anambra resonates deeply with our vision,” she said.

She further reiterated that Anambra is a truly shining beacon of hope in this cultural renaissance, earning its rightful place as the “Light of the Nation” in heritage revival.

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

ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY HOLDS VALEDICTORY SESSION FOR LATE EX-LAWMAKER ‘EZECHINWOYE

By Chizoba Okeke Anastasia Agunwa Gloria Abugu :

The Anambra State House of Assembly has on Thursday held a valedictory session at the legislative complex in Awka to honor the late Anthony Chukwuemeka Ezechinwoye, who passed away at the age of 64.

Late Ezechinwoye who was a former President-General of Oraukwu community, represented Idemili North Constituency at the 4th Assembly between 2007-2011 and was the House Committee Chairman on Health.

Anambra Assembly Speaker Mr Somtochukwu Udeze in his tribute on behalf of the 8th Assembly, commiserated with the Ezechinwoye family, stating that the late former lawmaker was an accomplished parliamentarian who made significant impact in the lives of his constituents both within and outside the chambers.

Mr Udeze maintained that the late Ezechinwoye during his time as a lawmaker attracted dividends of democracy to ndi Idemili North constituency with massive empowerment programs.

“He was among the few members of the 4th assembly I have always look-out for because of his quiet disposition to life.

” He was a good family man, a philanthropist, community leader, a devoted Christian whose life and times were impressive.

“I urge the family members especially the wife and children to uphold the legacies of late Ezechinwoye.

The Speaker prayed God to give the immediate family the fortitude to bear the greatest lost.

The member representing Idemili North Mr Kingsley Udemezue, Mr Chukwuebuka Igwe (Idemili South), Mr Ejike Okechukwu (Anaocha two) and the Majority Leader, Mr Ikenna Ofodeme (Ekwusigo) in their separate tributes hailed the impact of the late former lawmaker in his constituency.

” Today calls for sober reflection because we all will pass through this journey and we will be remembered by our deeds while on earth.

“His representation cannot be forgotten. While living, lets make good impact. We encourage the family to be hopeful and courageous’. The lawmakers submitted.

Also the Deputy Speaker of the 4th Assembly, Mr Afam Obi, Mr Joseph Dimobi (Anaocha two 2003-2011), Mr Uche Ogbonna and Mr Emma Udegbunam who represented Njikoka one constituency, described the late former lawmaker as a good man, peace maker, an epitome of humility and tolerance who was cheerful, contented, passionate about his constituency, committed in serving humanity and bared their burden.

” His death is a big loss to humanity. He believed in team work and played his part as a legislature. We pray that the angels welcome him in paradise.”

The house adjourned to reconvene on Tuesday 28 May 2024.

* Okeke, Agunwa and Abugu are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

ANAMBRA GOVT LEVERAGES TECHNOLOGY TO END QUACKERY IN HEALTH SYSTEM

By Nwanodu Angela :

To improve the health care delivery system in Anambra State, the state government in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), on Tuesday, launched the State Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Unit and its accompanying e-platform.

The platform is targeted to enable real-time registration, renewal and regulation of health facilities and licenses, data collection, analysis, and reporting, facilitating informed decision-making and prompt intervention where necessary to ensure better performance from healthcare providers.

Inaugurating the initiative in Awka, Anambra State Capital, the Chairman, Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Mr Tony Muobike described it as a tool to actualize the dream of Governor Chukwuma Soludo to provide quality healthcare to Anambra people, noting that due to its importance, the state legislature did not waste time in passing the bill legitimizing the initiative within a month of its arrival to the assembly.

Muobike, while commending the state ICT Agency for its contribution towards the development of the initiative’s e-platform, called on health professionals to familiarize themselves with the law and fully integrate it into their operations so that they do not run foul of it.

“Quackery is in many forms. Aside from those who are operating illegally, we also have registered institutions run by doctors where quackery is being practiced.

“The law supporting this initiative affects all professionals in the health practice and the idea is that each professional will concentrate on their specific areas of certified and proven expertise.

“Though there will be inspectors who will ensure compliance with the law, the public also has a duty to ensure that the law is well implemented,” he said.

Earlier in his remarks, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike described the initiative as a regulatory system to enhance management of health facilities and practitioners in the state.

“Prior to this administration, almost 80 percent of healthcare services were been driven by the private sector with little or nothing to regulate them but with the advent of the Governor Soludo administration, investment in the healthcare sector have constantly been on the rise ensuring better days ahead”

Obidike further explained that the initiative and the accompanying e-platform are all aimed to systematically eliminate quackery in all its forms in the state health system and increase accessibility especially for those in rural areas.

“Under this initiative, we already have 326 health informants across the state who provide us information on health facilities across the state.

“It is unfortunate that their findings show that 45 percent of the health facilities operating in the state are not registered.

“This platform will enable residents identify health facilities that provide services in specific areas, as well as help in reporting issues.

“By adopting advanced monitoring and accreditation processes, we are setting a benchmark for other states in the federation. It is a testament to our commitment to harnessing technology for the advancement of public health.

“At the national level, the Anambra State Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Unit and E-Platform is a crucial step towards achieving the objectives of the National Health Policy. It supports the federal government’s efforts to strengthen health systems, improve service delivery, and ensure accountability in the health sector.

“We are proud to contribute to the realization of these national goals, which are vital for the socio-economic development of our country,” Obidike concluded.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of the state ICT Agency, Mr Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, expressed appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to demonstrate what technology can do in the health sector.

He noted that technology cannot solve all your problems but can solve so many problems. It is only dependent on what you want to achieve with it.

Mr Agbata further explained that what the ICT agency has done is to replicate the vision of the ministry in setting up the e-platform and bringing on board, all the state assets. The idea is to ensure authenticity and eradicate quackery as much as possible.

He explained that the reason for the URL, ashefamu.anambrastate.gov.ng; is to solidify authenticity. The State Executive Council have approved the .anambrastate.gov.ng as a stamp to authenticity of all government information and processes.

The ICT boss appealed to practitioners in the industry and people of the state to flog the system and ensure that it accomplishes the intent for which it was established.

In a goodwill message, the representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Mohammed Bonnos congratulated Anambra State for the milestone, saying the initiative will protect Anambra citizens.

A practical demonstration of how the system works and discussions on the scalability formed the high points of the event.

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

STATE GOVERNMENT INSPECTS ONGOING WORK ON THE RECOVERED RIVERBANK, COMMENDS COUNCIL BOSS

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has inspected the ongoing work at Niger Street, Fegge, Onitsha, a proposed site for an entertainment, leisure and fun center.

The governor who was ably represented by the Chief of Staff, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi commended the Local Government Boss, Mr Emeka Orji for the recovery of the land, saying that it would be put to good use for the people of Onitsha and Anambra State in general.

“I will tell the governor the extent of work done already and the regeneration to do because we must put it for the good use of the community, Onitsha community and anambra in general.

”We look at environmental impact, what it was before and what it is today, I remember about 2 months ago, Mr Governor came here, the number of batcher and makeshifts here was disturbing.

“We’re working to revitalize Onitsha, and one of Governor Soludo’s top priorities is to breathe new life into the city. Instead of our brothers and sisters living on the other side of the bridge and commuting to Onitsha for work, we want to create a thriving hub where people can live, work, and play. Our goal is to reclaim and transform the area into a vibrant and attractive space, making Onitsha a desirable destination once again.

He emphasized that a major milestone for business owners and travelers crossing the Niger River would be the creation of leisure and entertainment opportunities. This will be achieved through the reclamation of a significant amount of land (though the exact number of plots or acres is unknown). The goal is to drive meaningful urban regeneration and local government development, ultimately making Onitsha a thriving, livable, and prosperous homeland for all.”

Regarding the recent viral video negatively portraying the Ochanja water fountain, Ezeajughi clarified that it is misleading the public. He recalled accompanying the Governor to the site in May 2022, when it was a massive dumpsite with refuse piled high enough for the governor to stand on and change a traffic light bulb. Moreover, there were even dead bodies buried amidst the trash.

“But today we have achieved water fountain, quality roads, instead of people commending the governor for the great job, for reviving Ochanja, the water fountain is still under construction and not yet commissioned .

The Council boss Mr Emeka Orji in his response commended Mr Governor, assuring him of always queuing into his policy in bringing back the lost glories of Onitsha and making the state a liveable and prosperous place.

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