LGA News

News from Anambra State Local Government Areas

IGWE EMELOBE LEADS OBA IN 2026 USHIOJIOKU FESTIVAL, URGES YOUTHS TO EMBRACE EMPOWERMENT

By Uzo Ugwunze

The traditional ruler of Oba Ebo-Itenani Ancient Kingdom in Idemili South Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State, Igwe Engr. Augustine Emelobe (EzeOkpoko II), has led his people in celebrating the 2026 Ushiojioku Festival, marking his second New Yam Festival since ascending the throne.

The colourful ceremony, held on Aug. 26, at the monarch’s palace in Okuzu-Mbana, Oba, brought together indigenes, residents and traditional stakeholders to give thanks to God for a bountiful harvest, seeking continued peace, prosperity and progress for the community.

Speaking during the celebration, Igwe Emelobe described the festival as an important expression of Oba’s cultural heritage and a moment of thanksgiving for the abundance of food crops produced in the land.

“Today is a great day in Oba Ebo-Itenani because the whole community is celebrating the New Yam Festival. We are thanking God for making it possible for us to harvest new yam,” the monarch said.

He explained that the celebration, traditionally known as “Mmekolita Ushiojioku,” formally ushers in the season when Oba indigenes can begin eating the new yam, while encouraging families, kindreds, villages and quarters to observe the festival in their own homes.

Beyond the cultural significance of the occasion, EzeOkpoko II used the gathering to encourage Oba youths to take advantage of available empowerment and skills acquisition programmes as part of efforts to reduce unemployment and build self reliance.

The monarch prayed for the success of businessmen and women, civil servants, artisans, apprentices and other workers, while seeking divine blessings for families, young people and Oba indigenes at home and in the diaspora.

He prayed for peace, progress and prosperity for residents and visitors to the community.

The President General of Oba Patriotic Union (OPU), Engr. Anthony Uzo Ejiofor, commended the monarch for sustaining the community’s cultural heritage, describing the festival as an opportunity to thank God for the productivity of Oba land.

According to him, the community has witnessed renewed peace and unity, urging indigenes to sustain the spirit of brotherhood and collective development.

Ejiofor called on youths to embrace skills acquisition and empowerment opportunities provided through initiatives supported by the traditional institution and OPU.

He noted that a committee on empowerment and skills acquisition had been established, with youths and women already undergoing various training programmes aimed at equipping them with practical skills and improving their economic prospects.

He appreciated the outgoing Mayor, Hon. Mrs. Amaka Obi (Iyom Ifeabata), for her support for skills acquisition initiatives in the community.

The OPU Women Wing President-General, Adaife Ngozi Onwuka, described the 2026 celebration as a significant improvement from the previous year, noting the large turnout and the prayers offered for the people and the land.

Onwuka urged young people to acquire skills and establish themselves in legitimate trades, saying the employment opportunities being promoted by the traditional institution should be embraced for their personal development.

Also speaking, Igwe Sir Charles Agbala of Uke prayed for God’s continued protection, wisdom, good health and long life for EzeOkpoko II.

He expressed confidence that the monarch’s efforts in advancing the interests of Oba would continue to yield positive results, praying that God would equally strengthen and prosper him.

The festival ended with renewed calls for unity, cultural preservation, youth empowerment and collective efforts towards the continued development of Oba Ebo-Itenani Ancient Kingdom.

Uzo Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

#anambraministryofinformationandvaluereformation
#anambraisrising
#ushiojioku2026
#obaeboItenani
#obacommunity
#youthempowerment
#culturalheritage
#communitydevelopment
#solutionishere
#solutioncontinues

NKPOLOGWU MARKS IGU ARO, NEW YAM FESTIVAL WITH CULTURAL DISPLAY, THANKSGIVING

By Chisom Okpala
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‎Nkpologwu Community in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State was agog with excitement on Aug. 27 as indigenes and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the annual New Yam Festival, while also marking Igu Aro, the traditional beginning of a new year in the community.
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‎The celebration brought together elders, youths, women and guests, who participated in various activities showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Nkpologwu people.
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‎In his remarks, Igwe Okpalanwaka thanked God for the gift of life and a successful farming season. He also prayed for continued peace, progress and prosperity in Nkpologwu Community.
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‎The monarch used the occasion to encourage the youths to take greater interest in politics and governance, urging them to prepare themselves for leadership and meaningful participation in public service.
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‎He further advised the young people to remain responsible, uphold the cultural values of the community and channel their energy towards initiatives capable of promoting peace, unity and sustainable development.
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‎One of the highlights of the celebration was the monarch’s graceful dance steps, which drew cheers and applause from the gathering. Various cultural dance groups and masquerade troupes also entertained the audience with colourful performances, music and traditional displays that reflected the history, identity and cultural richness of Nkpologwu.
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‎The vibrant cultural presentations added colour and excitement to the celebration, creating a memorable occasion for indigenes, residents and visitors who gathered to celebrate the community’s heritage and give thanks for the new agricultural season.
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‎Chisom Okpala is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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‎#Anambraisrising
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‎#Solutionishere
‎#Solutioncontinues
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BISHOP NWOKOLO CHARGES CONFIRMANDS, CHURCH MEMBERS TO LIVE IN HOLINESS

By Chioma Nwankwo

The Bishop on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Chiedozie Nwokolo, has charged Christians to reject their former way of life and remain committed to the new life found in Christ.

The Bishop gave the charge during a pastoral visit to the Church of Transfiguration of Our Lord, Akpaka GRA II, Divine Grace Archdeaconry, where he officiated the Confirmation and Admission Service.

Addressing the candidates, Bishop Nwokolo urged them to remain steadfast in their Christian faith and avoid sin and practices that could lead them away from righteous living.

Drawing his sermon from Colossians 3:3-5, he reminded the congregation that Christians were on 6called out of darkness into the light of Christ and must therefore abandon the works associated with their former life.

He further cited Romans 6:1-2, urging the candidates and other members of the congregation not to use God’s grace as an excuse to continue in sin.

According to him, “We are called to reject every form of the old life, for Christ Jesus has called us out of darkness into His marvellous light to live victoriously for Him.”

The Diocesan also charged the congregation to pursue holiness and righteousness, stressing that sin must not be allowed to control their lives or undermine their witness as Christians.

He prayed for the candidates and members of the church, asking God to grant them grace to remain faithful to Christ, do His will and receive His blessings in their lives and endeavours.

Chioma Nwankwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

#Anambraisrising
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinues

ACSPN ANAMBRA CHAPTER EMINENT PERSONS SERIES

By Doris Onyekachi

The Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), Anambra State Chapter, held its Eminent Persons Series at the Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna Legacy Building, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, with the theme: Communication for Inclusive Development: Connecting Communities and Policy for Sustainable Change.

The event, chaired by Dr. Amaechi Nwachukwu, Head of Consultants, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, brought together communication scholars, professionals, policymakers, and other dignitaries to discuss the role of communication in driving sustainable development.
The Lead Speaker and Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Christian Aburime, delivered a presentation titled: “Behind the Headline: The Realities of Managing Government Communications in the Digital Age.”

Also speaking at the event was the Special Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State on Youth Reformation, Dr. Nelson Omenugha, who shared insights on “Youth Advocacy to Public Policy: Experiences and Lessons in Building a Productive Generation.”

Prof Chinyere Stella Okunna, the first female Professor of Mass Communication in Nigeria and Sub-saharan Africa, and a member of Board of Trustees (BoT) of ACSPN, graced the occasion and added to the significance of the gathering.

The Chairman of ACSPN Anambra State Chapter, Dr. Gideon Nwafor, alongside members of the association and other distinguished guests, were present at the impactful event focused on strengthening communication for inclusive growth and societal transformation.

Doris Onyekachi is of the Ministry of Information and value Reformation, Anambra State

#Anambraisrising
#Silutionishere
#Solutionisthekey

PCN COMMENDS NAU FOR SUPPORT TO FOREIGN TRAINED PHARMACISTS

By Obianuju Azukaego

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has commended Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, for its continued support for the training and professional integration of foreign trained pharmacists into Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The PCN Registrar, Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, gave the commendation on Aug. 25 when he led members of the Council, the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, NAU, and other deans of pharmacy schools on a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Anyaehie.

The visit followed the delegation’s arrival at the university for the second cycle of the 2026 Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Orientation Programme (FPGOP).

Ahmed congratulated NAU on its selection as one of the two designated centres for the programme. The university’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Agulu Campus, is hosting participants from the Southern region, while Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, serves the Northern region.

He said the Council had repeatedly selected NAU because of its quality facilities and suitability for exposing foreign trained pharmacists to the realities of pharmacy practice and jurisprudence in Nigeria. He added that the 16 week programme would begin with eligibility interviews and examinations, after which successful candidates would proceed to the orientation programme.

The registrar said unsuccessful candidates would be required to prepare for another cycle, while those who failed repeatedly might be required to undertake a remedial programme. He also commended NAU’s participation in TETFund supported initiatives aimed at increasing admission quotas in Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry and Nursing.

Responding, Anyaehie thanked the PCN for finding the university worthy of hosting the programme and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences into one of the best in Nigeria. He said Pharmacy had been integrated into the newly created College of Health Sciences as part of the university’s restructuring and expansion plans.

The vice-chancellor said the university remained open to establishing a standalone College of Pharmacy when necessary and assured the delegation that facilities would continue to be improved. He listed plans to expand Computer Based Test capacity, improve student accommodation and provide reliable power supply, including solar powered facilities and dedicated reading spaces.

Anyaehie stressed that adequate facilities would be provided before increasing admission quotas, noting that the university’s priority was to ensure a conducive environment for learning and professional training. He assured the PCN of NAU’s readiness to support the FPGOP and contribute to the advancement of pharmacy education and professional training in Nigeria.

The Dean of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Hosting Dean for the programme, Prof. Sunday O. Nduka, commended the vice-chancellor for his commitment to developmental projects at the Agulu Campus.

He described the PCN’s decision to grant NAU hosting rights for the programme in Southern Nigeria as a significant opportunity for the faculty and the university.

Obianuju Azukaego is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

#Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation
#Anambraisrising
#PCN #foreignTrainedPharmacists
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinues

ANAMBRA @35: ISIAGU PG EMERITUS HAILS SOLUDO, SEEKS GOVERNMENT’S ATTENTION TO COMMUNITY

By Gloria Onyeanusi

The President-General Emeritus of Isiagu Ancient Kingdom in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra, Chief Sunday Ozumba, has congratulated the government and people of the state on the 35th anniversary of its creation.

Ozumba, in a goodwill message to mark the anniversary, described Anambra as a “light of the nation” and commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his efforts toward the development of the state.

He extended his felicitations to Ndi Anambra at home and in the diaspora, saying the achievements recorded by the state over the years had reinforced its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading states.

The community leader, however, appealed to Soludo to urgently address the challenges confronting Isiagu Ancient Kingdom.

He urged the state government to pay greater attention to the community and take decisive steps to address what he described as the “multifarious problems” facing its people.

Ozumba expressed confidence that increased government intervention would help alleviate the challenges and accelerate development in the community.

He prayed for continued progress and prosperity for Isiagu, Anambra and Nigeria.

“God bless Isiagu. God bless Anambra State. God bless Nigeria,” he said.

Gloria Onyeanusi is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

#Ministryofinformationandvaluereformation
#Anambraisrising
#Isiagu #CelebratingAnambraAt35
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinues

ANAMBRA @ 35: AMAKA OBI CELEBRATES NDI ANAMBRA, CALLS FOR UNITY AND GREATER PROGRESS

By Judith Oraeki-Anigbogu

The Mayor of Idemili South Local Government Area, Hon. Mrs. Amaka Obi has congratulated Ndi Anambra, particularly residents of Idemili South, as the state marks its 35th anniversary.

In a goodwill message posted on his social media handles on August 27, Mayor Obi described Anambra’s 35-year journey as a remarkable story of resilience, enterprise, innovation and collective determination, saying the state has continued to make significant strides despite its challenges.

She praised Ndi Anambra for their ingenuity, industrious spirit and contributions to the development of the state, noting that the achievements recorded over the years were largely driven by the people’s commitment to excellence and progress.

The Idemili South Mayor particularly commended the people of her council area for their contributions to the growth of Anambra, describing them as hardworking and enterprising citizens whose efforts continue to strengthen the state’s economic and social development.

Mrs Obi also acknowledged the administration of the Anambra State Governor Prof Chukwuma Soludo, for its efforts to transform the state through investments in infrastructure, education, security, human capital development and economic growth.

She said the anniversary should go beyond celebration, urging Ndi Anambra to reflect on the state’s journey, appreciate its achievements and renew their commitment to building a more peaceful, prosperous and inclusive society.

The Mayor called on residents to support initiatives that promote unity, peace, development and good governance, stressing that the future of Anambra depends on the collective responsibility and active participation of its people.

“As we celebrate Anambra @ 35, let us honour our past, appreciate the present and embrace the future with renewed hope and determination. Together, we can build the Anambra we desire and make generations yet unborn proud,” she said.

“Judith Oraeki-Anigbogu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State*

SENIOR CITIZEN HAILS SOLUDO’S PERFORMANCE IN GOVERNANCE, CALLS HIM AGED FRIENDLY

By David Okpala/Stella Okpala

A Retired Director in Education, Mrs Bibian Nweze has extolled Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Performance in governance, calls him friend of the aged.

She made her position public in an interaction with information officers, at St Raphael’s Hospital/Maternity, Akpo, in Aguata LGA, on August 22.

The educationist said, “Soludo’s Performance in governance is unprecedented. We have never had it as good as this since creation of Anambra State, 35 years ago.

“All what were owed retiree during the time of past governors have been paid. No retiree in Anambra State could tell you that he or she is owed anything.

“Our pension gets to us when it ought to every month. We are happy about it. Soludo is indeed an epitome of governors. His performance in road infrastructure is 2nd to none in the committee of States in Nigeria”

He has proved even before critics that he is an economist of international repute. Our roads are good now, as such reduce time wastages, a journey of 30 minutes in Anambra State before emergence of of Soludo achieved now in 10 minutes, thereby saving cost.

“Vehicles do not visit mechanics as often as they used to. All these make economy viable.

“In education, parents worry less about education expenses hence Soludo has taken care of them.

“Employment of over 8000 teachers in his first tenure is a fit only a giant could achieve. Surely, he deserves support of all asundry to do more.”

Mrs Nweze congratulated Ndi Anambra on 35th Anniversary Celebration, describing the celebration as appropriate, hence Soludo’s performance has placed the State on accelerated growth and development.

David Okpala and Stella Okpala are of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

#Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation
#Anambraisrising
#Informationiskey
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinues

HEALTHCARE BROUGHT CLOSER AS HON. CHIDI IBEMEKA SUPPORTS WOMEN WITH FREE MEDICAL CARE IN NJIKOKA CONSTITUENCY 1

By Mokwugwo Ogochukwu

The Enugwu-Ukwu Anglican Women Association has expressed appreciation to Hon. Chidi Ibemeka for organising a free medical outreach that provided healthcare services to women in the community during the 2026 August Convention.

The outreach, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Enugwu-Ukwu, offered beneficiaries free medical consultations, health screenings, treatment, medications and health education.

Several women who had been managing minor health challenges were attended to by medical personnel, receiving immediate care and necessary drugs at no cost.

The initiative brought relief to beneficiaries and their families while promoting greater awareness of the importance of regular health checks.

Speaking on the gesture, members of the Enugwu-Ukwu Anglican Women Association described the outreach as timely, compassionate and people-oriented, saying it reflected Hon. Ibemeka’s concern for the wellbeing of women and residents of Njikoka Constituency 1.

The women noted that bringing medical services closer to the people would help vulnerable members of the community access basic healthcare without the financial burden often associated with medical treatment.

They commended Hon. Ibemeka for prioritising healthcare and community welfare, describing the initiative as a practical demonstration of service to the people.

The association also prayed for God’s continued blessings, protection, good health and wisdom for Hon. Ibemeka, urging him to sustain initiatives that positively impact the lives of residents.

The outreach further underscored the importance of community-based healthcare initiatives in strengthening preventive healthcare and improving the wellbeing of families across Njikoka Constituency 1.

A healthy Njikoka Constituency 1, they stressed, was a stronger Njikoka.

Ogochukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value and Reformation, Anambra State

#Anambraisrising
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinues

‎IBEMEKA LAUNCHES WELDING, FABRICATION TRAINING FOR NJIKOKA 1 YOUTHS

By Emeka Ilozor
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‎Youths in Njikoka Constituency 1 have received a boost in their quest for sustainable livelihoods as the member representing the constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Chidi Ibemeka, commenced a practical skills acquisition programme in welding and fabrication on Aug. 25.
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The empowerment programme, sponsored by Hon. Ibemeka, officially began at Evans Welding Workshop, Enugwu-Ukwu, with beneficiaries drawn from various communities across the constituency participating in the opening session. The initiative is aimed at equipping the participants with practical knowledge and hands-on experience in welding and metal fabrication, thereby enhancing their employability, self-reliance and capacity to create jobs for themselves and others.

‎Speaking at the opening ceremony, Comr. Icheku Anthony Cardinal urged the trainees to take the opportunity seriously and remain committed throughout the duration of the programme. He described skills acquisition as a vital pathway to financial independence, particularly in an era where young people need practical and marketable skills to build sustainable livelihoods.
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‎Comr. Icheku commended Hon. Ibemeka for investing in youth development through empowerment initiatives that focus on practical skills and address unemployment and other economic challenges confronting young people.
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‎In his remarks, Hon. Deacon Henry Okafor, who formally declared the training open, charged the participants to demonstrate discipline, diligence and commitment throughout the programme.
‎He encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity by paying attention to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the training, noting that the skills acquired could serve as valuable tools for building their future.
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‎According to him, well-trained and empowered youths have the capacity to contribute significantly to the economic growth and development of Enugwu-Ukwu, Njikoka Constituency 1 and Anambra State as a whole.
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‎The beneficiaries expressed enthusiasm over the commencement of the programme, describing it as a valuable opportunity to learn a trade, become self-reliant and improve their economic prospects. The training is expected to run for several months and will combine theoretical instruction with intensive hands-on practical sessions at Evans Welding Workshop, Enugwu-Ukwu.
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‎The initiative further highlights Hon. Ibemeka’s commitment to youth empowerment, skills development and the creation of economic opportunities for his constituents by equipping them with practical skills needed to become productive and financially independent.
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‎Emeka Ilozor is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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