Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

CHRISTMAS: ANAMBRA IS SAFE, WELCOME HOME, NDI ANAMBRA!

By Christian ABURIME :

It is that time of the year again when the world is caught up in frenzied activities of holidays and celebration.

Naturally, there are sober reflections as well as great expectations at this time, as one year draws to a close and another beckons.

Everyone is preoccupied with diverse passions, emotions, thoughts and feelings.

What’s yours? Fears of insecurity? Leave them behind, Ndi Anambra! This Christmas, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, welcomes you home with open arms of assurances and unyielding commitment to security of lives and property

Anambra is no longer a dread zone, but a joyous haven embraced by peace, joy and goodwill this season and beyond

As you are making preparations for travels and celebrations, it is possible that you remember those dark days in Anambra State when kidnappers ruled and fear of unknown gunmen shadowed every step, and you panicked. Calm down, because those dark days are gone for good in our state.

Governor Soludo has drastically reversed the security situation in Anambra State. He raised a shield, establishing the Ministry of Homeland Affairs dedicated to security, re-strategizing with all organs of state security agencies, and empowering vigilant warriors – your own neighbours, trained and ready as Anambra Vigilantes.

Now, surveillance eyes are everywhere watching, joint security squads are patrolling the streets, and criminal shadows are fading.

But security remains a collective responsibility. Communities, not just constables, must stand guard. Traditional rulers, Presidents General, and you, Ndi Anambra, must join hands with the government and security agencies. When this is done, information flows, intelligence is gathered, crimes wither, and trust blossoms. “When you see something, you say something”

Thanks to the proactive leadership actions by Governor Soludo, streets once choked by touts can breathe freely again. Upper Iweka, Onitsha’s heart, now beats with newfound rhythm, free from the grip of fear. Christmas beckons and joy fills the air. Amidst the festive euphoria, Governor Soludo’s promise echoes: “A peaceful, crime-free celebration for all!” As security forces are standing ever vigilant and our roads are gleaming free of potholes, festive cheer will flow unfettered.

Even the traffic will be dancing to a safer, smoother rhythm. The watchful eyes of Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency, ARTMA, will be guiding the traffic flow, while law enforcers will be standing guard against festive frenzy. Pedestrians can stroll freely, merrymakers can relish carefree celebrations, and Christmas markets can shimmer with delight day and night, untouched by shadows of fear.

But, should misfortune strike, fear not. Ambulances will be humming reassuringly close by, ready to respond, care and comfort. Our medical heroes will be standing on call, ensuring every heart beats with joy. So come, Ndi Anambra, come home without a doubt. Bring your laughter without a fear. Governor Soludo has put all necessary, detailed measures of security of lives and property in place, hand in hand with our security agencies and our local communities.

Together, we will celebrate a merry Christmas and a happy New Year bathed in peace, suffused in joy, and glowing in the warmth of homecoming.

Season’s Greetings, Ndi Anambra!

Welcome home!!

ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT URGES CITIZENS TO DISREGARD THE PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY ASWAMA, RESTRICTING VEHICULAR AND HUMAN MOVEMENTS ON DECEMBER 16TH, FOR MONTHLY SANITATION EXERCISE

The Government of Anambra State wishes to bring to the notice of the general public that the Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise earlier announced to hold on December 16, 2023, restricting Vehicular and human movements by the Anambra State Waste Management Authority, ASWAMA, was not authorized by the State Government.

Consequently, the state government is urging the citizens to disregard the announcement, and should please go about their normal daily businesses.

The government, however, apologizes for any inconvenience the misleading announcement may have caused the general public.

*Christian Aburime*

Press Secretary To The Governor

December 14, 2023.

NOC SAYS 2023 IS A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR SPORTS IN NIGERIA

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has reflected on the outgoing year, 2023, describing it as a successful year for sports development in the country.

Addressing its Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, the President, Engr. Habu Gumel, OON, FNIM, FNSE, addressed the esteemed colleagues and members of the Olympic Family in his report for the year 2022, highlighting the Committee’s achievements and plans for the future.

Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his pleasure and privilege to address the Olympic Family, acknowledging the support of all members, including the Executive Committee, and Executive Board.

The NOC president particularly paid tribute to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The IOC member used the opportunity provided by the AGM to appeal to all stakeholders – the Federation presidents, and the Ministry of Sports to rally route ensure strong participation in three Major Games in 2024, Youth Winter Games, the African Games and the Olympics.

‘’We need a new result at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games; by improving on the 1996 Atlanta Games, where Nigeria won two Gold medals.

This was the Games the Chioma Ajunwa won gold through her 7.12-metre long jump and the gold by our soccer ‘Dream Team’ led by Nwankwo Kanu.

He also recognized the esteemed Patrons, Trustees, and members of various Commissions and Committees for their contributions in achieving the Committee’s goals.

He reflected on the activities of 2022, emphasizing the Committee’s commitment to uniting the Olympic Family and promoting the ideals of the Olympic Movement.

Gumel, who is an honorary life member of the International Olympic Committee highlighted the successful acquisition of five hectares of land for the building of the Committee’s Secretariat in Abuja, a long-awaited achievement.

He also mentioned the completion of the Olympafrica section of the Amuwo Odofin project in Lagos, a significant step towards the development of sports facilities.

To support the activation of Olympic Movement activities, the Committee reconstituted various Commissions, with a focus on involving members from the National Federations.

”Despite financial constraints, the President expressed satisfaction with the dedication and hard work of some Commissions in achieving their objectives, ” Gumel said

The President welcomed Senator John Enoh, the energetic Minister for Sports Development, and expressed his joy and honour in presenting the Report of Activities for the year 2022.

The report acknowledged the XXII Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

The President mentioned the successful visit of the Queen’s Baton Relay to Nigeria, marking the seventh consecutive visit since 2002.

The Baton’s journey included stops at various locations, including Abuja, Jabi Lake, and the British High Commission, before departing Nigeria. It was a moment of pride for the Olympic Family to witness the Baton’s presence in their country.

The report discussed the Gather Prepare & Sustain (GAPS) programme, a crucial initiative by the Commonwealth Games Federation for Para athletes.

Nigeria was among the 13 African Commonwealth countries benefiting from the programme. However, the report also mentioned the unfortunate passing of coach Patrick Anaeto during the programme, a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes and coaches.

The highlight of the report was the impressive performance of Team Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games, winning a total of 12 Gold, nine Silver, and 14 Bronze medals.

The President praised the athletes for their dedication and hard work, placing Nigeria in the seventh position in the overall medals table.

The report then shifted focus to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, where Nigeria participated in Ski Sports. The qualification pathway was discussed, with one athlete successfully qualifying through the continental representation quota.

It was also noted that Dr Marian Mkpo Odun received a scholarship to attend the IOC Diploma Course in Sports Medicine, contributing to the development of Nigerian sports medicine.

Other events, such as the celebration of Olympic Day, the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace, and various seminars and workshops, were also highlighted in the report, underscoring the Committee’s commitment to the growth and development of Nigerian sports.

The President Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his gratitude to the Olympic Family for their support and contributions.

He extended his appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Grand Patron of NOC, for their unwavering support.

He wished the General Assembly productive deliberations and extended warm wishes for the season.

This report signifies the remarkable achievements of Nigerian sports in 2022 and sets the foundation for future endeavours in Olympic sports in the country.

As part of the highlights of the event, the Account Audit firm of Yerima & Associates was re-appointed for another term. ##

Tony Nezianya (PRO NOC)

MINISTRY OF YOUTH PROPOSES PARTNERSHIP WITH MEDIA HOUSES

By Ifeoma Aniagbado :

The Anambra Ministry of Youth Development has proposed partnering with media houses to promote the 1YOUTH 2SKILLS program.

In a meeting held with all the radio stations in the State, the ministry discussed collaboration modalities for publicizing this youth empowerment initiative.

Addressing the media representatives at his office in Government House Awka, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba, emphasized the ministry’s goal of establishing an active information system to raise awareness about the program among indigenous and non-indigenous youths in the state.

This awareness campaign aimed at mitigating insecurity, curb involvement in street activities, cultism, and robbery.

Mr. Agha Mba underscored Gov. Soludo’s manifesto, highlighting the significance of security as a top priority.

He stressed the need for youths to possess multiple skills in response to the country’s current situation, affirming that the state government’s commitment to ensuring that every Anambra youth acquired at least two skills, thereby, fostering self-employment opportunities.

The Commissioner mentioned the ministry’s intention to collaborate with various elements essential for propelling the state toward a more livable and prosperous environment, Heemphasizing that partnering with the media would significantly increase youth participation and publicize the program among citizens.

He also said that 5,000 youths benefited from the pilot phase, with an expectation of 10,000 youths to benefit in two batches. Stressing the importance of collaboration, urging media representatives to outline their capacity to train youths in specific skill areas, facilitating a targeted approach.

Commending the media representatives for their attendance, Mr. Agha Mba highlighted their pivotal role as agents in propagating the 1YOUTH 2SKILLS program across the State.

Responding, the media representatives expressed their willingness to collaborate with the ministry in publicizing the state government program, pledging to discuss this partnership with their respective managements, devising modalities for effective collaboration.

Among those in attendance were Christopher Molokwu, Wazobia FM; Franklin Ebuka, Ogene FM; Amarachi Ekwueme, Blaze FM; Judy Nwabueze, ABS; Nelson Nwaenyi, Ebe Onadi FM; Monalisa Uzowulu, City Radio, and Chioma Chukwuemeka from Radio Sapientsa.

*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

WOMEN AFFAIRS COMMISSIONER SEEKS MORE SENSITISATION ON GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

By Ukpa Ewa :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo has called for a broader sensitisation of women on gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria as women and girls are mostly victims.

The commissioner, who received members of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Women Committee, Anambra State Chapter in her office in Awka said there was need to sensitize people on gender based violence.

Mrs. Obinabo who spoke extensively on the ill treatment meted on women, advised parents to make out adequate time for their children while urging them to go back to the good old days of making inquiries before giving out their daughters in marriage.

Speaking during the courtesy call, the NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs. Franklyn Onyekachi commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs for being in the fore front of the fight against gender based violence.

She further called for strict implementation and enforcement of Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.

The women who were marking the 16 days of activism on GBV which has as its theme “Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls” also paid a courtesy visit to the Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Sir Chido Obidiegwu.

*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT HANDS OVER SITE FOR CONSTRUCTION OF INTERNAL ROADS AT SOLUTION FUN CITY, AWKA

By Okoli Sunday :

The Anambra State Government has handed over site for the construction of Internal Roads within the Solution Fun City, Awka.

Performing the handover ceremony, the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Ifeanyi Okoma said that the event signified the commencement of construction works, charging the Contractor to take full ownership of the project by ensuring that the work is done within the timeframe and according to specifications.

The Commissioner who was represented by the Director of Maintenance Department in the Ministry, Engr. Noel Okoye said that Gov. Chukuwma Soludo’s administration is poised to make Anambra State an arrival lounge instead of a departure lounge by creating a livable and prosperous homeland for everybody where people can live, invest, and enjoy returns on investment.

On his part, the Project Engineer of Ferotex Construction Ltd, Engr. Ola King, thanked the State Government for entrusting them with such huge responsibility, saying that the company would live up to expectations.

*Sunday is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

SOLUDO AMBASSADORS HOLDS MEGA RALLY IN NNEWI

By: Ukpa Ewa :

Good governance, development and cohesion between the government and Ndi Anambra, have been described as one of the hallmarks of the Soludo Administration.

Addressing Ndi Anambra at a one day rally organized by a group under the auspices of Soludo Ambassadors at Nkwo Triangle, Nnewi North, the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo said that the event was about making statement on his transformation Agenda.

The Governor who was represented by his Chief of Staff Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, noted that soludo has done remarkably well in areas of security, economic transformation, law and order.

Ezeajughi praised the Governor for making Anambra a liveable and prosperous homeland, maintaining that infrastructural and economic development was ongoing in all the 21 local government areas (LGAs) in the state.

” All the 21 LGAs can boast of road, street light installation. Communities neglected on assumption of Soludo in office within a period of one year and nine months have been given a touch. Soludo will change the history of Okpoko from being a slum to a regenerative city.”

In his remarks, the National Leader of Soludo Ambassadors and Managing Director, Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) Mr. Ossy Onuko who underscored the importance of Soludo Ambassadors Support Group, said the event was held to propagate the dynamics of Gov. Soludo’s good work to his citizens.

Describing Nnewi as All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) land, he further enumerated numerous projects done by Soludo to include youth empowerment, awarding of over 200 kilometers of road and mobilization paid, reviving urban water scheme and producing three new cities in Anambra known as Awka 2.0.

The National Coordinator of Soludo Ambassadors, High Chief Kenneth Nwachukwu, in his remark affirmed the staunch support of the Ambassadors in projecting, promoting and protecting the good works of Prof. Soludo, reassuring of the group’s support at all times.

Earlier in his welcome address, the coordinator of Soludo Ambassadors, Anambra South Zone, Prince Namsom Nwafor – Orizu, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication of Soludo in fighting insecurity which was a major threat.

The large turnout of Ndi Anambra as witnessed at the rally had top government functionaries in attendance with installation of Patrons and Patroness, courtesy visit to HRM Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III of Nnewi kingdom by the group and cultural display by each local government council areas of the zone.

*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

150 TRAINEES FROM ITF AWKA RECEIVE START UP PACKS…URGED TO UTILIZE OPPORTUNITY

By Uche Kalu :

Any society that neglects the development of its human capital is bound to retrogress in terms of growth and development. It is especially worrisome in Nigeria that even in the face of existing vacancies in several sectors of the economy, youths roam the streets without any form of gainful employment, giving rise to crimes and other social vices that bedevil the nation.

The Director General and Chief Executive of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Ariz Oluwatoyin Ogun said this during the graduation ceremony organized for 2023 batch of the National Industrial Skills Development Programmes (NISDP).

The event, being one of the first official functions of the DG since assumption of office was held in the Awka Area office of ITF. It featured the graduation of 150 students trained in various skills and presentation of start up packs to them.

Represented by the Deputy Director in charge of Finance, Mrs Felicita Ofodile while commending the graduands, urged them to utilize the opportunity provided by the training to make a decent living for themselves as well as their families, warning them of the consequences of selling the start up packs given to them.

The DG who thanked the Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo for providing an enabling environment for ITF to thrive in the state, noted that NISDP aimed at provision of skills that will create jobs to curb the rampant unemployment situation in the country and breed a new generation of entrepreneurs.

He also said that in few weeks, the Fund will unveil comprehensive policy thrust of its future.

In an interview, Mrs Ofodile noted that acquisition of skills builds the nation’s economy.

Responding on why some youths hate learning skills and other trades, she emphasised that every training starts from home, blaming some parents who are too busy to look after their children, noting that skill acquisition helps to reduce the rate of crime among youths.

In her address of welcome, the Awka Area Manager, ITF, Nancy Ekong, described the NISDP as an integral part of ITF expanded mandate and a policy directive from the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMIT), designed to respond to skills shortages identified through an intensive research conducted by (ITF-UNIDO, 2012).

According to her, the thrust of the programme is to shore up the skills shortages by building capacity of the youths and ensure that they are employable by others or self-employed.

“Since inception of NISDP in 2012, 3,700 youths of the state have been trained in the following trade areas: In 2012-2013 – Welding, Fabrication and Tiling. In 2014-2015 – Computer Hardware, Cosmetology, Pastry, and Phone repairs. In 2016, Cosmetology, Pastry, Yam/Cassava Processing and Fishery.

“Also in 2017 — Tiling, POP, Carpentry, Domestic Electrical Installation and Block/Bricks making. In 2017 (WOSEP) –Poultry, Food Processing and Pastry. In 2018 – Catering and Event Management, Aluminum Fabrication and Installation and other trades.

“Today, we are witnessing the closing ceremony of yet another 150 trainees in Anambra State. Three trade areas were identified in collaboration with the state government and other stakeholders. The Trade Areas were: Hairdressing/Beauty Care, Tailoring, Solar Panel Installation. We had four competent trainers, who were stationed in the various centres for a period of the three months who were frequently monitored by both officers from the Area Office and the headquarters to ensure compliance to standard.

“Expectedly majority of the graduands of this programme will start-up their own businesses while others will be employed in various sectors of the economy, thus readily becoming potential members of various Business Member Organizations (BMOs).”

According to her, as partners in the implementation of the NISDP, the Bank of Industry (BOI) is to help provide the NISDP graduands access to “Start-Up” loans.

“Worthy of note is the huge support and collaboration given us by the state government for the actualization of this programme.”

While commending the graduands, Mrs Ekong explained that the prospect of NISDP is to provide opportunities for members of the Organized Private Sector (OPS) who complain of lack of skilled workforce, to draw from the pool of skilled technical middle level manpower that will be generated.

Some of the graduands, Chiamaka Ndubuisi trained on wig making, Chukwuemeka Ndigwe, Solar Installation and Stella — tailoring expressed gratitude to ITF for the opportunity to be trained in their various skills and promised to make proper use of the knowledge they got as well as contribute to the growth and development of the nation.

*Uche is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ENUGU STATE UNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE AGENCY TEAM UNDERSTUDIES ANAMBRA STATE HEALTH INSURANCE AGENCY (ASHIA)

By Chisom Okafor :

The Enugu State Agency for Universal Health Coverage team, understudies the State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) in a bid to improve the operations of their Health Insurance Scheme.

The Delegates from Enugu State Agency for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) paid a visit to ASHIA office in Awka to understudy the operations of the Scheme with a specific focus on the Claims management system for the Basic Healthcare provision fund (BHCPF) program and other programmes of ASHIA.

The Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi while receiving the two-man delegation assured that they will be adequately equipped with knowledge of Health Insurance practice, Claims management as well as the background of Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).

He gave them the general overview of Health insurance as it is practiced globally, then narrowed it down to the national and state health insurance schemes operations in Nigeria.

The MD, who spoke on the background of the BHCPF said that National Health Act 2014 in section 11 provides for a minimum of 1% of consolidated revenue of the Federal Government to be set aside to provide basic minimum package of health services to all Nigerians.

He further explained that the bodies charged with the mandate to implement this federal government policy include the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) through their subnational equivalence.

Dr. Onyemaechi noted that Claims Management begins from when the enrollee is still at the hospital, adding that every Claim starts with pre authorization code request that is sent when the request is approved and service rendered then Claims for payment are sent to the Agency at the end of every month.

He assured the visitors that the ASHIA team would provide them with all the knowledge they require.

“We just don’t teach theory , my team will show you the practical aspects, you will also visit some of our healthcare providers to get on-site hands-on experience.

He encouraged them to have an open mind and feel free to ask all the questions they had regarding Health Insurance and BHCPF programmes.

The Leader of the team, Dr. Marcus Agu, on behalf of the Enugu State Commissioner for Health, extended his appreciation to the MD for the opportunity to meet with him personally, and assured him of their willingness to learn from him.

Present at the meeting includes Dr. Mary Chukwuma, a member of the Enugu State delegates and ASHIA Heads of Departments.

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

FGN/IFAD-VCDP DISTRIBUTES POS MACHINES TO PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PERSONS IN OGBARU LGA

By Henry Anagboso :

The Chairman Ogbaru Local Government Area, Mr. Pascal Aniegbuna has called on the people of Ogbaru to make judicious use of government intervention and supports through Agricultural Programmes like the Value Chain Development Programme, VCDP, to better their lives.

The Chairman made this call during the handing over of Point of Sale, POS, machines to the physically challenged persons today at the Local Government Secretary’s office, Atani.

The chairman in his speech enjoined them to accept the support with warm embrace as it is geared to make them become financially independent, he added that such gesture scarcely come and when it does, it is advised that one makes judicious use of such opportunity.

Mr. Aniegbuna commended the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, Programme, VCDP for their support while urging the beneficiaries to utilize the opportunity to encourage the donor to reach out to more vulnerable people in their community.

Earlier, the VCDP Rural Finance officer, Mr. Chukwujekwu Obianefo explained that the POS terminal was considered a vital tool for empowerment to support the vulnerable across the participating LGAs of the Programme, using the new LGAs of Ogbaru, Ihiala and Orumba South as pilot area which would be extended to other LGAs in due time.

Mr. Obianefo said the support was part of the VCDP mainstreaming initiative of financial inclusion and considering the Programme’s concern for the vulnerable and people living with disabilities, to help them come out of poverty.

In a vote of thanks, Mrs. Amaka Onyema, a primary healthcare worker and one of the physically challenged persons from Amaiyi community, applauded the IFAD-VCDP for the kind gesture and promised they would put it to use and achieve the objective of the support.

Mrs. Nkiru Okonkwo, a widow from great Umunankwo Cooperative Society and Mr. Ozoemena Okori from Destiny farmers, Umuezehobi expressed their gratitude over the support and pledged to make good use of the device, adding that the support would really impact their lives.

“I want to thank the VCDP for this support of POS machine given to me, I am grateful. I want to also thank the state government, as well as the Federal Government and I pray that God will bless them all.”

*Anagboso writes for the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*