The Traditional Ruler of Amansea, His Royal Highness, Igwe Chukwuma Anigbogu has commended Governor Soludo for the completion of road construction within and around Amansea Community.
The roads included : 26km Amansea-Ebenebe-Ugbenu-Awba Ofemili-Umuerum-Omor Road, the 26.6km Amansea-Ufuma Junction Road and the 26.4km Amansea-Ntokor-Ndiukwuenu-Awa-Ufuma Road among others.
Igwe Anigbogu also thanked the governor particularly for the ongoing work on the Amansea Enugu-Onitsha Express Road, believing it will improve the economy of the state.
He stressed the importance of having good roads before the rainy season returns, as this would facilitate smooth business operations. According to him, “Anambra State renowned for its farming and fishing industries, aims to attract investors and industrialists to partner with the state. Well-maintained roads would not only boost economic activities but also enhance the state’s appeal to potential business partners.”
The traditional ruler seized the opportunity to appeal to Governor Soludo to expedite the completion of the Amansea Enugu-Onitsha Express Road before the rainy season sets in. He emphasized that delaying the project would worsen the challenges faced by the community, particularly given the area’s economic significance.
President-General of Amansea Community Improvement Union, Chief Christian Ughanze, stressed the importance of completing the road before the rainy season. He noted that failure to do so would make life difficult for road users and negatively impact local businesses.
Chief Ughanze highlighted Amansea’s thriving agricultural sector such as cattle sales, trading, and other business ventures that attract visitors to the area. He urged the government to prioritize the road’s completion, acknowledging its significance to the community’s economic well-being.
* Njaka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*
In a landmark achievement to mark his first 100 days in office, the Chairman of Njikoka Local Government Area, Barr. Chinedu Ononiba, has enrolled 1,000 indigenes of the local government into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIA).
The initiative was carried out using the adoption model, which allows individuals or groups to pay the annual health insurance premiums on behalf of others, granting them access to affordable and quality healthcare services. This model aligns with the vision of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to improve health insurance coverage across Anambra State.
During the enrollment ceremony, Barr. Ononiba emphasized the importance of affordable healthcare for the people of Njikoka, noting that regular health checkups and timely medical intervention can prevent or detect illnesses before they become severe.
“Now, our people have no excuse not to access quality healthcare at hospitals. I want to eradicate the culture of self-medication. If you are unwell, visit the hospital for professional treatment. This is why we are taking proactive steps to ensure our people get the care they deserve,” chairman said.
Hon. Aroma Okpala, the Supervisor for Health in Njikoka LGA, commended Barr. Ononiba for his dedication to improving the lives of his people, describing the initiative as part of his dream to ensure that even the less privileged in the community can access quality healthcare without financial strain.
“This initiative is a reflection of the chairman’s commitment to his people. He wants the indigent and vulnerable to enjoy access to good healthcare at little or no cost. I urge all beneficiaries to safeguard their ID cards and use them appropriately to access the healthcare services provided,” Okpala said.
The Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, sensitized the beneficiaries on the benefits of the health insurance scheme, explaining that the scheme is designed to significantly reduce the burden of hospital bills while ensuring access to high-quality treatment.
The ASHIA MD, represented by Miss Onyinye Egwuatu urged beneficiaries to make good use of their chosen healthcare facilities, adding, “Health insurance is a cost-effective way to access professional healthcare. I encourage all enrollees to visit their selected hospitals for treatment and avoid delays in seeking medical attention.”
Many of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the initiative, which they described as life-changing. Mrs. Nwokolo Chika, one of the newly enrolled members, thanked the chairman for his generosity and foresight in prioritizing healthcare.
“This initiative is a blessing to many families, including mine. The high cost of hospital bills has been a major challenge, but with this enrollment, we can now access quality care without worrying about finances,” she said.
*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
By Chioma Nwankwo/Claribel Udah/Chika Obi/Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ifeanyi Nwegbo/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo
The Mayor of Onitsha North LGA, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, hosted SP Joy Elemoko, the newly posted Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Inland Town Police Station, Onitsha.
The visit, which served as a familiarization meeting, provided an opportunity for both leaders to discuss pressing security challenges and strategies to ensure the safety of residents in the area.
During the meeting held at the Mayor’s office, Hon. Nwora emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that Onitsha North remains a safe and peaceful community.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration between the local government, the police, and other security agencies in tackling issues such as petty crimes, traffic management, and community disputes.
“Security is our top priority in Onitsha North because it is the foundation for development. We will continue to support the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to ensure that our residents can live and do business in peace,” Mayor said.
Hon. Nwora pledged to provide logistical support and facilitate regular engagements between the local government and security agencies.
SP Joy Elemoko, who recently assumed her position as the DPO, expressed her gratitude to Hon. Nwora for the warm reception and his proactive approach to security.
She commended the Mayor for his consistent support of the police force and emphasized the need for mutual cooperation to address the unique challenges of policing in a densely populated and commercially vibrant area like Onitsha.
“I am committed to working with you and other stakeholders to improve the security framework in this community. Together, we can ensure that Onitsha North remains a safe haven for its residents and businesses,” SP Elemoko assured.
The meeting also touched on specific areas of collaboration, including community policing initiatives, enhanced patrols in crime-prone areas, and public awareness campaigns to encourage residents to report suspicious activities.
The new DPO’s visit underscores the importance of leadership synergy in addressing the complex security needs of Onitsha North, a hub for commerce and trade in Anambra State.
Residents are hopeful that the renewed partnership between the local government and the police will lead to a noticeable improvement in security and overall quality of life in the area.
*The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
Princess Dr. Jessie Ifeoma Udoka-Menuba’s illustrious career has been further distinguished with two prestigious honors from Umuigbo United Assembly Worldwide. She has been conferred with the esteemed titles of “Ahaejiejemba1” and “Woman of the Decade,” solidifying her position as a leading figure in her community.
The prestigious “Ahaejiejemba1” and “Woman of the Decade” awards conferred on Princess Dr. Jessie Udoka-Menuba are a testament to her exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment, and selfless service to the most vulnerable and underprivileged members of society.
Princess Udoka-Menuba (nee Oliobi), is the Founder and CEO Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation International and a multimillion award winner.
The event took place at Sunshine Hotels Plot C5 Presidential Road Independence Layout Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria on January 11 during the UUA National Security Peace/Unity Enugu 2025 Summit.
Evang Dr. Ralph C D Ezeondugo, Founder/President General of UmuIgbo United Assembly (UUA) Worldwide, described the organization as a socio-cultural, and non-profit entity. Its primary objective is to promote and defend Igbo interests, ensuring that Igbo people everywhere receive support and protection.
Evang Ezeonodugo assured that the organization will provide assistance to any genuine Igbo man or woman facing problems or injustice, and work toward their rescue.
Regarding Princess Udoka-Menuba’s recognition as “Woman of the Decade,” the president general expressed his wish for her to continue her good work, using this award as encouragement to further support widows and orphans.
Mr Michael Okoye, a legal practitioner and coordinator of the Queen-Tovah Care Foundation said, “Tonight, we witnessed a remarkable event as UmuIgbo Worldwide, a prestigious PAN Igbo Association, honored Queen Dr. Jessie Udoka-Menuba as the “Woman of the Decade” and crowned her”.
According to him, this recognition is a testament to Queen Udoka-Menuba’s selfless dedication to serving the needy and downtrodden. Her tireless efforts have made a significant impact, and we’re grateful for her contributions.
“This occasion highlights the importance of unity and support among the Igbo people worldwide. UmuIgbo Worldwide has provided a vital umbrella, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community.
“We commend them for their vision and recognition of Princy Udoka-Menuba’s exceptional work. May this honor inspire her to continue making a positive difference, and may it serve as a catalyst for further good works.”
Dr Mrs Ijeoma Perpetual Onuoha, Woman Leader UUA Ebonyi State Chapter explained that the prestigious “Ahaejiejemba1” and “Woman of the Decade” awards conferred on Princess Dr. Udoka-Menuba are a testament to her exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment, and selfless service to the most vulnerable and underprivileged members of society.
Mrs. Bridget Okonkwo was overjoyed by Princess Dr. Jessie Udoka-Menuba’s achievements, praising her as an unparalleled philanthropist. She highlighted the Princess’s remarkable contributions, including providing scholarships to those in need.
Mrs. Okonkwo offered heartfelt prayers, asking God to continue blessing the Princess and ensuring that her selfless deeds are richly rewarded.
Mrs. Esther Oti expressed her delight in attending the event, saying, “I’m thrilled to be here today. As friends, we always support her functions, having attended previous events in Enugu and Awka. I’ve been following her activities since last year, and I must say, she’s an exceptional lady.”
She shared her personal experiences, highlighting the Princess’s kindness and generosity. “She gave us Christmas gifts last year and always takes care of us when we attend her events. I’ll continue to support her until her programs are completed. I admire her philanthropic work.”
Mrs. Oti offered a heartfelt blessing: “May God bless her and her endeavors. May these awards bring more blessings upon her. May she live a long, fulfilling life, never lacking in blessings, and may goodness follow her always.”
Rev. Augustine Ihemere, Coordinator Abia State Chapter; Barr. Livinus Obasi Onu, National Youth Leader UUA Worldwide and Prince M A Ogbumba in their respective speeches commended the Princess giant strides in the areas of philanthropy and human capital development, praying that she keep on doing good.
*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
By Chidubem Okoye/Enoch Uzuegbunam/Anthony Okpanku :
On Tuesday, 14th January 2025, the Executive Chairman of Nnewi North, Mr. Echezona Anazodo, led a delegation of top government officials to the scene of a devastating fire that ravaged parts of the popular Afia Abani market in Nkwo Nnewi.
The fire, which broke out around 2 a.m., prompted an immediate response from the Anambra State Fire Service. The firefighters quickly mobilized to contain the blaze, though substantial damage had already occurred. Upon arrival, Mr. Anazodo, accompanied by the market’s vice chairman, toured the affected areas to assess the extent of the destruction.
During his visit, the Mayor expressed his heartfelt condolences to the shop owners who suffered significant losses and assured them that the government would take all necessary steps to support their recovery. He emphasized that efforts are underway to provide swift relief and ensure businesses are restored to normalcy as soon as possible.
Mr. Anazodo also promised that measures would be implemented to prevent future occurrences of such disasters.
Among the key government officials present at the scene were Rt. Hon. Chijioke NwIzugbe, Leader of the Congress, Prince Jude Osumuo, Mr. Austin Emmanuel, and several others.
* Okoye, Uzuegbunam and Okpanku are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
A Patron, Nigeria Union of Journalist, NUJ, Anambra State Chapter, who is an indigene of Neni, Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State, Chief Chidi Nwokediuko(Esq), has been conferred with the highest prestigious chieftaincy title of Ozo Ezeana by Ndi Nze na Ozo Society of Neni Community.
Nwokediuko, who was the former President General, (PG), Odume Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State was said to have made his mark in various fields of human endeavours which earned him the prestigious Ozo Ezeana title.
A philanthropist to the core, according to a veteran legal practitioner, Morris Efobi, Nwokediuko has headed so many organizations prior to furthering his educational pursuit and graduated as a legal practitioner.
“He is a lawyer in my office and we are here to encourage him, he has been a man of leadership. He has headed so many organizations and has been President General of Odume Central Landlords Association, Obosi and former Chairman of Ezineni village, Neni community.”
Expressing satisfaction while fielding questions from newsmen, Nwokediuko stated that he was initiated into the Ozo society by Ndi Nze Na Ozo society of Neni community as ‘Ozo Ezeana,” in recognition of his numerous achievements in the community.
“It is the highest title in Neni, so I am an Ichie now capped by the head of Ndi Nze Na Ozo Neni, Ichie Ezeana Ebekuedike and with this honour given to me, I am barred from doing certain things like buying things in the market, keeping late hours, among others and must stand by the truth always.
“Apart from the chieftaincy title of Ozo Ezeana given to me by Ndi Nzena Ozo, I have three traditional names to myself and they are, Ezeana Akurienne, Ezeana Chinagbalu ogu and Ezeana Muo na akpalu ego. I also have the Ezeana Ogene Neni, given to me by the community.
“This title of Ozo Ezeana is inherited in our family in those days and that is why I resolved to take it because it is not a child’s play. For three days people have been eaten and drinking. Very few people were able to take the title because of financial involvement in the entire Neni community.
“On his educational pursuit he said, “I want to be prominent that is why I furthered my education and read law. I am into charity and have assisted scores both in my community and outside. I commend my three Neni inlaws for their roles towards this my installation and others too numerous to mention,” he stated.
Thanking God for the hitch free installation of her husband as Ozo Ezeana, wife to Nwokediuko, lolo Nwokediuko said it was one of her happiest days.
“I am highly elevated by this honour and I thank God for everything. I commend those who either in cash or kind expressed their satisfaction for the honour done to us and I pray that good things will come their way,” she prayed.
* Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Ogidi Unit Manager of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), Mr. Samuel Orjiako, Oyi Local Government Area Mayor, Mr. Emmanuel Nweke, President General, Nteje community, Dr. Nnamdi Ilodiuba and an electricity contractor, Mr. Anthony Akwue have urged the people of Umuokwuanya community, Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State, to curtail cost of power supply by switching off unnecessary electrical appliances.
Making the urge during the celebration of the installation of a transformer worth about N30 million to their area, the Ogidi Unit Manager of EEDC, Mr. Orjiakor told them that it is necessary to switch of appliances not in use to reduce cost of power supply.
The unit manager who was conferred with a chieftaincy title of ‘Onwa Na Umuobeke,’ for his humanitarian role towards the installation of the transformer, reminded the people that when the unnecessary appliances are not switched off, the power supply cost will increase.
He commended them for founding him worthy to be conferred with the honour and urged them to always protect EEDC properties in their domain to avoid blaming EEDC over power outage.
In his address, the Chairman of Umuokwuanya community, Comrade Jude Achebe, who is the National President of Human Dignity Restoration Association (HDRA), a human right organization, disclosed that the installation of the transformer gulped a whopping sum of about N30 million.
He commended the people for their unity which made the realization of the project easy, adding that divided they fall and united they stand even as he paid glowing tribute to Mr. Akwue Michael Okonkwo who is the chairman of the village, Celestine Nwata who he said introduced the project to him, and others so numerous to mention.
He suggested that defaulters who fail to switch off unnecessary electrical appliances should face fines, as proposed by some individuals, in order to serve as a deterrent to offenders.
Contributing, the Oyi Council Major, Mr. Emmanuel Nweke, expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the people to install the transformer for steady power supply and advised them to keep to the rules of EEDC now that they have power supply.
Mr. Nweke who was represented by Mr. Ikechukwu Udogu, commended the Chairman of Umuokwuanya community, Comrade Jude Achebe and his executives for the installation of the transformer.
In his remarks, Mr. Anthony Akwue, a veteran electricity contractor, expressed satisfaction with the installation of the transformer, adding that it is part of community development.
He commended Mr. Jude Achebe and his executives for their efforts, recalling how he was approached for assistance as a relation which he succumbed for the rapid infrastructural development of the area.
Mr. Akwue who was honoured by the community for his assistance as “Ekwueme 1 of Umuobeke,” commended them for the honour and urged them not to relent in their efforts especially on the renovation of the community hall they said they will work on.
The chairman of the occasion, Chief Vin. Nwankwo Ikelie, lauded Mr. Akwue for his assistance to the people which according to him facilitated the rapid installation of the transformer even as he extolled Jude Achebe, adding that without him mobilizing the people the dream of the project would not have been realized.
“We thank God for the installation of the transformer. We urge EEDC to provide us with metres and not to charge us by estimated Billings,” he pleaded.
Chief Uchenna Chidebelu, a member of the indigenes in Diaspora, disclosed that light is a necessity, adding that it is unfortunate for those that work without light.
“I commend my big brother, Jude, who is the Gburugburu of this community because without him we will not have achieved this. I also commend those in Diaspora for moving the community foward.”
* Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ifeanyi Nwegbo/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo :
In an effort to enhance the aesthetic appeal and infrastructure of the Onitsha North Local Government Area, Mayor Nweze Tony Nwora has initiated a comprehensive facelift project at the Onitsha North Secretariat.
The ongoing renovation work is aimed at transforming the entire landscape of the secretariat, making it a more beautiful, secure, and functional environment.
As part of the project, the administrative buildings and offices within the secretariat are being renovated.The surroundings are also being improved, with a focus on creating a clean and serene environment.
In addition to the renovation work, Mayor Nwora plans to introduce new amenities to the secretariat, including a fish farm and a bush bar to further enhance the quality of life for workers and visitors coming to the Secretariat.He has also promised to roll out additional social amenities that will encourage community spirit and development.
Mayor Nwora stated that the facelift project is a top priority and he is committed to ensuring that Onitsha North becomes a better place for all under his administration.
* Achukwu-jide, Nwegbo and Mokwugwo are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
By Chukwudi Nwauba/Nnedinma Okeke/Azuka Nnabuife :
The Anambra State Government has collaborated with the World Health Organization(WHO) to organize one day retreat for 21 Local Government Chairmen, LG Directors of Health, Supervisors and partners on Integrated Primary HealthCare (PHC) Service Delivery across the state.
The retreat is aimed at ensuring uptake in routine immunization, vaccine acceptance and optimal healthcare service delivery across the state and for the 21 LG Chairmen to fully take ownership of health in their various local government areas.
“We must improve on the low level of immunization vaccine acceptance in the state, its proven benefits are certified by the World Health Organization.’’
The Anambra Health Commissioner, Dr Afam Obidike, said this in his address during engagement meeting with ALGON and LGA Council Members on Integrated Primary Healthcare Service Delivery.
The meeting organised by the State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), was held in Awka, on Thursday.
According to him, despite the proven benefits of immunization, vaccine acceptance remains a critical challenge, particularly in regions like some local government areas of the state.
“Refusal of vaccines despite the availability of vaccination services is a complex issue influenced by multiple factors, including misinformation, cultural beliefs, lack of trust in healthcare systems, poor awareness campaign and fear of side effects.
“In some cases, religious doctrines and traditional practices further contribute to poor acceptance rates, leaving many communities vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases.
“Addressing this issue requires coordinated strategies to educate communities, build trust, and strengthen the delivery of immunization services across the state.’’
The Commissioner noted that the engagement meeting is to develop institutional capacity and responsiveness required to ensure and enhance primary healthcare service delivery across the 179 communities in the state.
He urged the participants to intensify awareness campaigns on the benefits of immunization in their various council areas.
The Executive Secretary, State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Pharm. Chisom Uchem thanked the participants for their support in healthcare of the state.
Aguata LG Chairman, Dr. Chibueze Offorbuike who is also the ALGON Chairman in the state assured the commitment of all the 21 LG Chairmen in addressing all the issues raised.
The event also witnessed the presence of all the 21 local government chairmen in the state, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, Traditional rulers, representative of World Health Organization WHO, and other relevant stakeholders in the health sector.
*The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The National President, Heavy Duty Truck Drivers’ Association, comrade Uche Rogers Nebuwa, has warned that the association will not tolerate imposition of multiple levies by illegal revenue collectors on the highways nationwide this year.
Sounding the note of warning shortly after his appointment as Mobile Volunteered Membership Emblems co-ordinator and taskforce member of Policing Nigeria Awareness Initiative, (PNAI), he reiterated the resolve of the drivers and PNAI to work in partnership to sack all illegal revenue collectors on the highways.
Commending PNAI Executive Chairman, Chief Egbe Akparakwu, who doubles as the President, Governing Council, for finding him worthy to be so honoured, Nebuwa attributed it to his relentless efforts in sanitizing the highways nationwide, saying that the honour will spur him to do more.
“This effort now to fight the illegal revenue collectors on the highways that include, emblems, ticket/stickers, among others who claim to be agents of the three tiers of governments should vacate the highways in their own interest and drivers who want to procure emblems/stickers should go to the designated agents and should not patronize the road touts,” he warned.
The letter of his appointment read in part thus: “Following the insecurity situation and continued road criminal activities across the country and the importance of this PNAI National Anti Corruption against illegal activities and multiple taxations to the general public and its value to government Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), nationwide, you have been nominated to be of the PNAI Volunteered Coordinator for the campaign against corruption and illegal activities projects.
“PNAI policing marshals are calling on all national, state and local governments’ security stakeholders to collectively come together for PPP. Partnership relationship with special focus to policing Nigeria illegal activities across boarders, as designed in line with Federal laws and policies to partner government bodies, corporate organizations, private establishments, civil investigators, country groups, NGOs, among others “.
To buttress his claim of having documented evidence of government support and approval that these illegal revenue agents should steer clear of the highways, Nebuwa referred to the letter signed by Mr. M.L. Abubakar, for Joint Tax Board, (JTB), banning sale of emblems/stickers to motorists nationwide.
“As part of continuous efforts to curb the illegal imposition of levies and fees by unauthorized persons and sanitize the Nigeria tax system, the Joint Tax Board hereby notifies the general public of the ban on the sale of emblems/stickers to motorists across the nation,” the letter read in part.”
Nebuwa also referred to the resolution of the 4th meeting of National Economic Council, held on Thursday 22nd April 2004, which banned anybody from mounting road block on the highways for purposes of revenue collection.
The resolution of the 4th NEC meeting read in part thus : “No person, including a tax authority, shall mount a road block in any part of the Federation for the purpose of collecting any tax or levy.
“In consideration of Section 2 of this degree, if guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a fine of #50,000 or imprisonment for 3 years or to both such fine and imprisonment.”
*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
