Author: Okechukwu Onwuka

Soludo Gives Lifeline to Onitsha Correctional Centre Inmates

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State Friday at Onitsha Correctional Center, gave #5,000 each to 1100 inmates as Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev Dr. Valeria Okeke, celebrated his 70th birthday with the inmates

Soludo advised the inmates to be of good behaviour and repent of their sins to be able to mix up with the outside world when they complete their tenure adding that the State Government will take financial care of those of them who will sit for external examinations.

The governor also presented indomies, biscuits, toiletaries even as his wife, Nonye, presented cake to the inmates.

Earlier, the Archbishop thanked God for attaining 70 years stating that he always celebrated with the inmates for them to feel the fatherly love pointing out that the skill acquisition centre he built for the inmates which was commissioned during the occasion, was for them to be professionals on completion of their tenure.

He presented a life cow, killed one cow that was cooked with 10 bags of rice, biscuits, toiletaries, 100 mattresses, 50 bunk beds, cake, among others to the inmates.

In a remark, the Comptroller General, Mr. Haliru Nababa, on behalf of the Nigeria Correctional Centre, honoured the celebrant with the Grand Patron award in appreciation for what he has done at the Onitsha centre.

The Comptroller General who was ably represented by his Deputy, Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, also commended the Archbishop for the building of the skill acquisition centre for the inmates.

He also commended Governor Soludo for his payment of external examination fees for inmates taking the examination and pleaded with other governors and good spirited individuals to emulate Soludo.

Former Governor Chris Nwabueze Ngige, while speaking said he built one cell and renovated a portion of the perimeter fence even as he commended the Archbishop for marking 70 years .

Earlier, the papal Nuncio of Czech, Amb. Archbishop Jude Okolo, recalled that the celebrant was his contemporary in the seminary school, disclosing that he was brilliant which earned him his present position.

Among those who graced the occasion included, Senators Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial zone, and all House of Assembly members in Onitsha constituency under the Labour Party, LP.

Highlight on the occasion was the celebrant with guests cutting the cake inside Onitsha Correctional center.

UNIZIK Blockchain Lab, CBC Unveil Tech Conference to Empower Anambra Youth

By Angela Nwanodu :

As part of plans to get youths in Anambra State to fully explore the benefits that abound with the 21st Century’s emerging technologies, the UNIZIK Blockchain Lab and the Crypto Bootcamp Community (CBC), is organizing the UNIZIK Blockchain Conference.

The conference with the theme, “Opportunities in Blockchain and the Future of Web3”, is to be held on the 21st of October, 2023, at Chike Okoli Centre, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

The event, sponsored by Yellow Card and CBC, has Anambra State ICT Agency, SiBAN, and Digital Nigeria under the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy as its ecosystem partners

According to Obinna Iwuno, President, Stakeholders in Blockchain Association of Nigeria – SIBAN and Founder, Crypto Bootcamp Community, CBC, the event aimed at bringing emerging technologies to Anambra youths through Blockchain Technology and Web3.

These he noted, include a variety of technologies such as educational technology, information technology, nanotechnology, biotechnology, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

“We want to raise innovators and service providers in the tech sector through this event; people who will be self-employed, create jobs, and in turn, contribute to economic development.

“This is in line with the vision of the Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy to raise three Million Technical Talents.

“We are also delighted that this aligns with what the Governor of Anambra State is doing already through the Anambra State ICT Agency, to leverage aspects of technology to not just transform the state but also empower the youths.

“We are particular about the young people because of their imaginative and innovative capabilities and due to the fact that the future belongs to them. In a world where technology rules, our young people cannot afford to be left behind,” Iwuno posited.

Guest speakers at the conference comprise carefully selected industry professionals who have achieved remarkable successes in the blockchain industry, including Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata Jnr., CFA, the MD/CEO of the Anambra ICT Agency; Ugochukwu Aronu, First Principles Engineer and CEO Xend Finance & Wicrypt, Chris Ani, CEO Digital Abundance Ltd. Evans Okoli, Lead, Blockchain Sub-Community
Anambra Techies and Blockchain Dev. Core Contributor on Starknet Protocol; Talle Davidson, Founder, Cryptoelites and Co-Founder, Nurika and Charles Okafor-Mba, CTO at Convexity.

Others are Chike Okonkwo, Co-Founder and Business Development Director at GAMIC; Emeka Ezike, VP Media and Publicity, SIBAN and Community Manager, Emurgo Africa; Ifeanyichukwu John,
GDSC Lead, Nnamdi Azikiwe University; Ifeanyi Reuben, Founder GIBChain Academy; Olubunmi Fabanwo, Blockchain Evangelist; Ubah Nnamdi, CEO HouseAfrica; Prof Ngwuoke Kenneth, SA to NAU VC on ICT and Tracy Andrews, Promotions and Events Coordinator.

Other speakers are Christopher Eniaiyemo, Co-Founder Sahara ICP Hub; Osawaru David, Programs Lead at CBC; Umeh MaryJane Chinenye, Brand Strategist; Karla Obakpolor, Founder Crypto Smart; Sonia Christopher Blockchain and Crypto Tutor; Victor Dennis Idongesit, Community Manager; Kester Ejikeme Project Manager at CBC; Paolo Abamwa Marketing Manager, Nigeria at Yellow Card; Uzoma James regional Operations Manager West Africa, Yellow Card and Anthony Nduka, Lead, Blockchain UNN and Founder, Alphablocks Community.

The event was hosted by Queen Azubuike Helen, The Crypto Doyen, Founder, Doyen CV.

Among special offers during the event will be the N100,000 giveaway prize, Scholarships, Access to 10 high-demanding Web 3.0 Skills, Merches, and lots more.

To register for the event, please visit, https://bit.ly/UBLConference2023. (Ministry of Information)

The information officer reports from State ICT Agency, Awka

Health Ministry Will Continue to Map Out Good Health Policy for Public to Benefit — Commissioner

By Chukwudi Nwauba/Nnedinma Okeke :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike says his ministry will continue to map out good health policy for the public to benefit from across the state.

Dr. Obidike said that Gov. Charles Soludo’s mandate in the healthcare sector of the state is such that every health policy must be designed for the benefits of the people.

“Our governor is so much interested in the health policy that is impactful to Ndi Anambra both in urban and rural areas, especially hard to reach communities in the state.’’

The Commissioner said this while addressing Programme Coordinators and Programme Managers at the conclusion of a 2 day Annual Operational Plan (AOP), in Awka.

The donor Resilience and Sustainable System for Health (RSSH), through the National Agency for the Control of AIDS supported the state to organize the 2 day partner’s forum meeting.

He urged participants to ensure that they always come up with benefiting health programmes.

“One good reason for this type of meeting is that it will help us to work in one direction, our health partners will as well know the critical area they will support us.

The State Ministry of Health, Head Planning, Research and Statistics, Mrs. Edith Nwachukwu said that the state has done her own AOP few months ago, that the essence is for them to look at the 2024 work plan.

“Our partners have been presenting to us the activities for those that have their work plan available and what they intend to achieve in 2024.

“So, with this, what the partners have for the state will be harmonized in 2024 budget.’’ (Ministry of Information)

The information officers report from, Awka.

Anambra Airport Poised to Become the Hub of Cargo Exports

By Florence Okpeti :

The Anambra State Government has expressed readiness to position the Anambra Airport as the hub of Cargo exports.

The Governor of the State, Prof Charles Soludo said this during a courtesy visit by the AviaCargo RoadMap Committee at the Chinụa Achebe International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri.

The Governor who was represented by the State Commissioner for Transport, Mrs Patricia Igwebuike said that the government has embarked on distribution of oil palm seedlings and high breed coconut seedlings annually to households across the state.

He further explained that the cash crops would be processed for export, adding that it would boost the State’s revenue and create more jobs in the state.

The Governor commended the efforts of the Committee toward transforming the general export cargo business in Nigeria, noting that export is in line with the vision of his administration.

The committee, made up of aviation cargo professionals from various government and private agencies was constituted by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to improve Avio-Cargo Export from Nigeria.

The coordinator of the committee, Mr. Ikechi Uko said that the purpose of the visit was to encourage Nigerians to export their products.

Mr. Uko explained that Nigeria’s exports did not match its capacity as the most populous country and largest economy in Africa.

“Part of what we are trying to solve is to get Nigerians to begin to export what we produce because there are a lot of things we produce that people need.”

The Managing Director of the Anambra Airport, Mr. Martins Nwafor said that agro-allied products that could be exported from Anambra to other international and domestic markets were taken into consideration during the development of the Airport’s master plan.

Mr. Nwafor said that airports served a key role in the transportation of people and goods in the national, regional and international commerce, adding that a business plan was developed for the Anambra Airport.

In their separate remarks, the President General, Anambra State Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Mr. Humphrey Anuna, Chairman Ochanja Central Market, Mr. Bonaventure Muo and the President, Building Int. Market Ogidi, Mr.Jude Nwankwo expressed their gratitude, even as they pledged their support for the government’s agenda.

The President, Anambra State Shippers Association, Mr. Emma Akpaka and representatives of Zenith Shipping Council, Mr Elochukwu Ebubechukwu, Mr. Muoghalu Christian and Mr. Alocha Jerry expressed their willingness to key into the State Government’s programme. (Ministry of Information)

The information officer reports from Umueri

Government Completes Rehabilitation of 33 KV Rural Electrification Project in Anambra West, Energized Ezi-Anam Axis amid Commendation

By Felix Igboanugo :

The completion of the long-awaited Anambra West rural electrification project has garnered immense commendation from the community, as residents lauds the government for its efforts in bringing electricity to their previously underserved rural area.

This significant accomplishment has brought about a wave of joy and optimism as the residents can now enjoy the benefits of reliable and sustainable electricity.

For decades, Anam and most communities in Anambra West had been one of the many rural areas in Nigeria grappling with the darkness and its associated challenges. Residents relied on expensive and unreliable generators, which not only strained their finances but also limited their access to vital services and opportunities for economic advancement.

Speaking to the press, the President General, Ezi- Anam community, Mr. Charles Igboanugo said that the project which was abandoned for over 10 years until Gov. Charles Soludo took over, was completed and energized on 25th September 2023 to the glory of God.

“This Project was abandoned by successive Government not until Gov. Soludo’s administration came to our rescue, as am speaking with you now, the project has been completed and energized.

“Our people are so happy to witness what was seen as mirage before now, our talk and do Governor has come to our rescue and may Almighty God continue to protect and give him more wisdom to pilot the affairs of our dear state,” he added.

He thanked Gov. Soludo for fulfilling his campaign promises, noting that the successful implementation of the project marked a turning point in the lives of Ndi Anambra West, as it opened up a multitude of opportunities and improvements across various sectors.

“The gains of this laudable project to my community is numerous to mention. it’s like given a life to someone who was sick. For example, Small scale businesses that needs light to survive will now thrive with maximum profits as the losses incurred by burning of fuel on generators would be drastically reduced.”

Mr. Igboanugo described Gov. Soludo as a silent archiver, who was bend on developing all sectors of the state simultaneously, noting that his administration have awarded over 300 km of roads and mobilized contractors to site in different towns and villages in the 21 local council of the state under 18 months.

On his part, Mr. Joseph Okechukwu who was overwhelmed with joy expressed gratitude to Gov. Soludo’s administration for bringing light into their lives.

He said that the project has not only illuminated their homes but also their hopes and aspirations, showing that the government cares about the well-being of rural communities like ours.

Mr. Nnaemeka Onyekwe described the project as a testament to what can be achieved when the government listens to the needs of its people, applauding Government dedication toward improving their lives.

Mr. Albert Okeke from Oroma Etiti Anam said that the project was a good omen and sign that Prof. Soludo led administration meant business of developing Anambra West as was promised during the electioneering campaign.

He enjoyed Ndi Anambra West to keep supporting Gov. Soludo in his quest toward making Anambra a prosperous and liveable homeland.(Ministry of Information)

The information officer reports from Anambra West LGA

Anambra Assembly Calls for Construction of Pedestrian Bridge at Total Filing Station Junction Ihiala

By Anastasia Agunwa/Chizoba Okeke/Gloria Abugu :

Anambra State House of Assembly has called on Governor Charles Soludo to direct the Commissioner for Works to facilitate the construction of pedestrian bridge at Total Filing station junction, Ihiala town.

The resolution was sequel to a motion sponsored by the member representing Ihiala 1 constiuency, Mr. Jude Ngobili and seconded by Mr. Golden Iloh representing Ihiala 11 constituency during plenary on October 17.

The Speaker of the House, Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze who presided over the plenary had moved for the resolution of the House while the lawmakers unanimously adopted it through voice votes.

Dwelling on the motion, Mr. Jude Ngobili expressed worry about the alarming rate at which accident occur at the junction, which frequently results in fatalities and various degrees of accident casualties.

He was optimistic that a pedestrian bridge across the area would significantly lower the number of accident.

“Further convinced that if constructed, the pedestrian bridge will increase accessibility for everyone, including the disabled and provide safer crossing.

“Whereas the junction, one of the busiest bus stops on the Onitsha-Owerri road is located at the Total filing station junction, Ihiala town.

“Concerned that a large number of pedestrians, including children and the elderly, cross the road everyday.

“Cognizant that the rate of vehicle acceleration at the spot is quite high”, Ngobili stressed.

Speaking in favour of the motion, Mr. Noble Igwe representing Ogbaru 1 constiuency, Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme representing Ekwusigo constituency, Mr. Jude Umennajiego representing Onitsha South 11 constituency, Mr. John-Mark Ikwunne representing Awka North and Mr. Tony Muobike representing Aguata 11 constituency described the motion as apt.

The lawmakers added that the construction of the pedestrian bridge at the junction would save the lives of Ndi Anambra, explaining that the junction leads to different communities and states in the South East and some South South states. (MOI)

The Officers report from the State House of Assembly, Awka.

Anambra State Ranks among Top 5 Fiscal Performers in Nigeria

By Christian ABURIME :

In an impressive achievement reflecting astute management of resources and financial responsibility, Anambra State has clinched a coveted position among the top five states in Nigeria for its exceptional fiscal performance.

The latest BudgIT report on the overall evaluation of states’ fiscal policies places Anambra at an impressive 5th position, an affirmation of the remarkable strides made under the visionary leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.

Generally, states ascending the ranks on Index A exhibit a commendable level of self-reliance, displaying limited reliance on federally disbursed revenue for their day-to-day operations.

This enviable position signifies that these states possess greater financial viability, even in the hypothetical scenario of an independent existence.

Governor Soludo’s indomitable commitment to transforming the economic landscape of Anambra has ushered in an era of unprecedented growth and stability.

His dynamic approach to financial management has been instrumental in propelling the state to this remarkable achievement.

This milestone stands as a resounding endorsement of the Soludo-nomics model, a blueprint that has successfully steered Anambra State towards a trajectory of sustained progress so far.

It serves as an affirmation that under Governor Soludo’s stewardship, Anambra continues to flourish, creating a legacy of prosperity for generations to come.

The government of Anambra State, under Governor Soludo is resolute in its commitment to build on this accomplishment, ushering in an era of even greater economic prosperity, improved public services, and enhanced quality of life for every Ndi Anambra.

Indeed, Solution is here! And Anambra will continue to win!

Anambra among 5 Best Fiscal Performers – BudgIT

By Paul Nwosu :

Anambra State has just been ranked among the five best performing states in the country by BudgIT.

In the latest State of the States Report released by BudgIT, Anambra State was ranked among the five best performing states in the country in terms of fiscal performance.

The other top ranking states are Lagos, Rivers, Kaduna and Ogun.

The sterling performance is undoubtedly a reflection of the prudent financial management of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo (CFR) who from the onset of his administration has continued to harp on fiscal resourcefulness because the tap of federal allocation from Abuja is gradually becoming dry.

According to the 2023 BudgIT report, the five states in the A category where Anambra belongs have been able to significantly grow their internally generated revenue year-on-year and are progressively reducing their over-reliance on federal transfers.

The high-ranking states like Anambra have comparatively limited dependence on federally distributed revenue for their operations and thus have greater viability if they were to theoretically exist as an independent entity.

Director of BudgIT, Seun Onigbinde, while appearing on television, expressly stated that it takes strong leadership to drive the fiscal performance of the states in line with BudgIT appraisal.

Solution is here.

*Sir Paul Nwosu*

Commissioner for Information

Anambra State

Anambra Govt Distributes 120 Anti-shock Garments to Mission, General Hospitals

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo has distributed 120 Anti-shock garments to Mission and General hospitals across the state to prevent maternal mortality.

Distributing the Anti-shock garments at the governor’s lodge, Amawbia, Dr. (Mrs.) Soludo said, “These garments will help to stop bleeding and ensure safe delivery in the state”.

She explained that the garment could keep a bleeding woman alive for 48 hours, and appealed to healthcare professionals to ensure that they use it judiciously so as to save lives.

“Records from the maternal mortality review meeting held in the state showed that 80 per cent of maternal deaths were as a result of bleeding also known as Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH).

“PPH is heavy bleeding of a woman during or shortly after delivery and it is causing death among women. This is why we are distributing the anti-shock garments which is a low technology first aid device.

“Once bleeding has been identified, many women die before receiving adequate treatment. Therefore, the garment can be used to keep such women alive for 48 hours, if not she can bleed to death within 30 minutes.

“These are preventable deaths and again I urge our health personnel to put the anti-shock garments to use in order to reduce maternal mortality and as well ensure safe delivery in Anambra,’’ she said.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, said that the state government was sustaining efforts to ensure that Anambra remained the lowest in terms of maternal mortality in the country.

Dr. Obidike said that the next phase of the anti-shock garments distribution would be to all the Primary Healthcare Centres in the state.

According to him, the garment is used to stabilize women who are suffering from obstetric bleeding and shock. It helps such women survive delays in getting to a hospital and getting the treatment that they need.

“This brand of garments can be reused for at least 144 times. Our goal is that no woman in Anambra should die as a result of preventable causes,’’ he said.

The State Reproductive Health Coordinator, Dr. Obianuju Okoye said that there would be training to upgrade the clinical capacities of health workers on the use of the anti-shock garments.

“State Government has provided to us everything needed for the training, we are waiting for all the hospitals that received the anti-shock garments to send details of the healthcare personnel to be trained.

Commending the government and the wife of the Governor on behalf of the benefiting hospitals, Dr. Francis Ifeaneme, Secretary, Nigerian Medical Association, Anambra chapter, assured that the garments would be used to save lives. (Ministry of Information)

The information officer reports from the State Ministry of Health, Awka.

Anambra Police Smashes Armed Robbery Gang, Recovers Two AK-47 Rifles

Men of Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu of Anambra State Police Command on Monday 16th October, 2023 foiled a planned robbery operation along Ebenebe-Achalla Road in Awka North LGA of the State.

The Operatives while on Anti Kidnapping Patrol were tipped off by a public spirited citizen who saw two gun men being conveyed on a motorcycle along the road.

The Operatives went in pursuit of the gang and encountered them where they had positioned to rob mororists. On sighting the approaching Operatives they tried to engage them in a shootout but the battle-ready Operatives quickly overwhelmed them forcing them to abandon their weapons and fled into the bushy environ.

Operatives combed the Bush and recovered two AK-47 Rifles loaded with several rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and shells of expended rounds.

The Commissioner of Police CP Aderemi Adeoye who commended the team for its gallantry has asked them to step up proactive operations in that part of the State until all criminal elements tormenting citizens in that part of the State are completely flushed out.

*DSP Tochukwu Ikenga*

Police Public Relations Officer,

Anambra State Police Command,

Awka.

17th October, 2023.