LGA News

News from Anambra State Local Government Areas

OCTOGENARIANS’ INITIATION: SOLUDO COMMENDS OBOSI PEOPLE, SAYS OBOSI IS CITADEL OF LONGEVITY

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, on March 2, at the initiation of 200 octogenarians into Ogbueshi society of Obosi community, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State, described the community as citadel of longevity.

Explaining further, he said, “this is my first time of coming to Ito ogbo ceremony of Obosi, we want to celebrate, thank Obosi people for giving Anambra, Nigeria and the world a celebration of longevity.

“Let the world learn how to celebrate with the living and not the dead, Obosi is one ward that is more than a local government. It deserves to be a local government. The celebration is part of the burial law in Anambra State. It is better to slaughter a cow for the living than dead.

“I urge the youths to decide to be 80 years and above, but killers, touts, among others will not live up to 80 years. Live a decent, responsible life style to be able to live up to 80 years,” he charged the youths.

Earlier, the Traditional Ruler of Obosi, HRM, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, while commending the governor for being physically present at the function, described it as an age long cultural heritage of the people, adding that about 200 octogenarians were initiated into the Ogbueshi society.

“Those initiated have been exempted from all manners of taxations/levies, and my prayer is that all who attended this ceremony will attain 80 years and above.

In his contribution, the Prime Minister of the community, Chief Austin-Anibogwu, said that the aim of the occasion was to promote longevity.

One of the inductees, Ogbueshi Paul Ebugobe Uwakwe, aged 80, thanked God to have attained 80 years and prayed for more years.

Another beneficiary, former Minister of State for Defence, Chief Dan Chuke, expressed satisfaction to have attained 80 years, adding that extra years from God means the person is lucky.

Highlight of the occasion was honouring of some people who have distinguished themselves in serious fields of human endeavor that included, Commander, Special Anti Cultism Squad, SPACS, Obosi, Mr. Isaac Nuhu, who dedicated the award to the IGP, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, and Anambra CP, Mr Ederemi Adeoye, for posting him to Obosi where the community found him worthy to be accorded the honor.

“The honour will spur me to perform more than I have been doing for the interest of God and humanity. The award is a call to duty,” he said.

*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ASMATA PG INAUGURATES UNITED PETROCHEMICAL ASSOCIATION IN ONITSHA

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The President General (PG), Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association ( ASMATA), Chief Humphrey Anuna, has inaugurated the new executive of United Petrochemical Dealers and Crushers Association of Nigeria, headed by Mr Onyekachi Nwafor as Chairman.

Inaugurating them at the ASMATA Secretariat on February 22, the ASMATA PG charged them to live by their oath of office and avoid acts capable of dragging them to ridicule, adding that they should key into Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s move to restore the lost glory of the markets.

“You should be your brother’s keeper by telling your fellow traders the truth and see yourselves as partners in progress which is the APGA slogan of ‘Onyeaghana Nwanne ya”, he pleaded.

In his post inaugural speech, the new Chairman of the Association, Chief Nwafor, said, “What is expected from us now is that we will unite all the members of the market and make sure we follow government directive.

“We need mobile fire service which we were promised to get. We need permanent site that will accommodate the whole traders,” he noted.

On the allegation that the association deals on fake products, he denied the allegation saying, “We don’t produce or sell fake products, we sell processed products, that is already processed petrochemicals,” he affirmed.

“I will handle our opposition as ourselves and if any case that requires the attention of ASMATA leadership, I will kindly surrender to ASMATA to keep a clean hand.

“Once such case is beyond my settlement, I will involve central body of ASMATA to handle it for us. We come to support government,” he assured.

He, however, admitted that touts exist in the market, saying that they normally dealt with them when they misbehaved, warning, that now they are officially elected and inaugurated, they now have full power to tackle them appropriately.

“There is anti tout squad set up by state government, we will get their phone numbers to work with them toward fighting the touts,” he further added.

On the performance of the ASMATA PG since he assumed office, the new chairman said, “God is using him on the traders. He doesn’t discriminate whether you are rich or poor. Any problem you have, he will listen to you and solve it for peace to reign . There is peace in the market since he assumed office. We are happy that God gave him to us”.

Speaking, Mr Steven Uka, the Secretary of the market, added, “I promise that I will fully support the chairman, we are one body and will be working together to be in unity in order to get what we are fighting for.

“Before I was made the secretary, all of them knew me as a peace maker and trust worthy fellow, so if there is any opposition, we will join hands together to tackle them and we will take them as one of us, with time they will change from their bad ways, that’s our belief.

“Soludo is a solution to Anambra State problem, he is doing very well to Ndi Anambra. We are in full support of his work,” he said.

Also, the Assistant secretary, Mr Adolphus Udeh, added, “I am the assistant secretary of the market. We are solidly behind our chairman, if you know the nature of business we are doing, you know that whoever that abandons his machine and goes out, will lose a lot of things, but we wouldn’t mind, we will support him to be here,” he pledged.

*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ONITSHA MAIN MARKET CLINIC ORGANIZES FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH, SENSITIZES TRADERS

By Ebele Egoh :

The Medical Doctor in charge of Onitsha Main Market clinic, Olisaemeka Anierobi with his management team has organized a one-day free medical services for traders at the clinic as their corporate responsibility.

Dr Anierobi said that it was necessary to use the free medical outreach to create awareness that such a facility is in existence and functional with experienced and qualified doctors, including other health workers.

“When we were sent here, we realized that almost all the people in the market did not know that there is already a functional clinic here so we decided to offer this free medical outreach as a way to sensitize them.

‘’You can see the crowd that is here for medical check-ups, laboratory examinations, others, and every service we render is free, but subsequent services would be paid for,” he said.

According to Dr Anierobi, the clinic will solve many health issues of traders, particularly those who might suddenly fall sick or develop illness while in their shops. No transport fare is required to access care in the clinic because of its location.

Declaring the event open, the Hospital Administrator, Dr Frank Ifeanaeme said that the state government wants to bring healthcare to the doorsteps of people.

He said, “considering the role the market plays in the country and beyond, it became necessary that the government brings healthcare delivery to their doorsteps so that they can easily have access to the facility at no extra stress while doing their business.

‘”The free medical outreach is a step in the right direction; it will help to promote the facility and positively enhance the perception of traders toward the facility.

Dr Ifeanaeme praised the doctor in charge of the clinic, Dr Anierobi for working tirelessly to ensure that traders have access to quality healthcare services.

The chairman of the market, Chief Innocent Ezeoha, expressed joy to have witnessed the event, thanking the Health Commissioner, Dr Afam Obidike, and his team for this laudable initiative even as he used the opportunity to sensitize traders about the need to visit the clinic for routine medical checkups.

Chief Ezeoha applauded the state government for their quick response to making the clinic functional, adding that he would make sure that the environment is conducive for health workers to effectively work.

“We thank Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for opening this clinic, equipping it, and making it functional.

“When we assumed office, I found out that there is a structure that has been there for a health centre and people wanted to convert it into shops but having known the importance of health to our people I resisted.

“I told the Health Commissioner, Dr Obidike about it who then discussed with the governor; he came to our rescue, today this clinic is functional with qualified healthcare workers”, he narrated.

The Chairman, Niger line Onitsha Main market, Chukwudi Ezenwuba extolled the government for deeming it necessary to have this clinic inside the market for easy access to healthcare.

He explained that prior to putting the clinic in order, traders used to find it very difficult to access healthcare outside the market, adding that with the clinic now functional, the problem is solved.

*Ebele is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

APGA ORGANISES GRASSROOTS MOBILIZATION IN OGBARU

By Gloria Ikwuanusi/Anthonia Okeke :

The Commissioner for Information in Anambra State, Sir Paul Nwosu in a significant gathering marking the commencement of the year 2024, hosted the 24 Ward executives in Atani, Ogbaru Local Government Headquarter.

The event witnessed the esteemed presence of the Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr. Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze.

During his speech, Udeze emphasized the organic growth of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), saying, “APGA is growing, and the growth is organic”.

He expressed his belief in communal spirit, asserting, “I do not believe in personal development, I believe in the spirit of ‘onye aghana nwanne ya”.

The Speaker also announced that he would unveil his plans for APGA and Ogbaru on February 17, urging stakeholders to prioritize staking over taking, emphasizing the importance of collective participation.

Earlier in an address, the Commissioner for Information, Sir Nwosu, reminded Ogbaru people of the special love His Excellency, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has for Ogbaru people.

Sir Nwosu also highlighted some of the projects embarked on by the Prof. Soludo led administration in Ogbaru which includes; the reconstruction of Umunankwo/ Ossomalla bridge, Construction of Ekwusigo/Atani road, Employment/ Empowerment of Ogbaru Indigenes and construction of many roads in Okpoko.

He advised Ogbaru people to reciprocate the love by standing firm in supporting APGA without having double mind.

Further more, the State Chairman of APGA, High Chief Ifeatu Obiokoye expressed joy that APGA is coming up with a new party structure which entailed the Kindred Structure which must grow from the grassroots where you have the Kindred Co- ordinator, Woman Leader and Youth Leader.

Obiokoye explained that with the Kindred Structure of APGA, there will be proper representation, effective delivery of democracy dividend and election victory is assured.

The event witnessed the presence of key personalities, including the Local Government Chairman, Mr. Paschal Aniegbuna, APGA Local Government Chairman, Pastor Onochie Obiorah Anibueze, Mr. Linus Ezenwamma, Mr. Franklin Nwadialor, Mr Ndubuisi Ochiogu (Chairman, Ogbaru Main Market).

The event showcased a United front of APGA Leaders and stakeholders, promising a dynamic year ahead for the party and the Ogbaru communities.

*Gloria, Anthonia are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

COMMISSIONER FOR YOUTH COMMENDS GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES IN ANAMBRA STATE

By Ifeoma Aniagbado :

The Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha-Mba has visited ICT centre in Ajani village, Ichida to underscore the significance of accessible primary education championed by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo.

The ICT centre, a memorial of Late Mrs. Ezinne Theresa Chiekezie by High Chief Innocent Chiekezie, served as a testament to the commitment to education for all in Anambra.

Addressing the students, Mr. Agha Mba specifically highlighted Gov. Soludo’s innovative Public Private Community Partnership (PPCP) program, emphasizing its role in providing essential ICT training for Anambra’s young pupils.

Expressing gratitude, he acknowledged Mr. Osita Ozalagba, Chairman of Ajani village, for actively facilitating the community’s utilization of the ICT centre.

Responding, Mr. Ozalagba expressed appreciation for Gov. Soludo’s administration and acknowledged Commissioner Agha-Mba’s dedication in inspecting and promoting ICT education within the community.

According to him, this educational initiative aligns seamlessly with the vision of the donor, High Chief Innocent Chiekezie, focusing on nurturing a generation of global citizens capable of excelling at the highest levels of education.

*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

GOVERNOR SOLUDO NOT AGAINST TRADITIONAL INSTITUTION

By Uche Kalu :

Few days now, the social media have been awash by the news of some traditional rulers from Anambra State being suspended for ignoring due process in the conferment of chieftaincy titles on individuals without getting clearance from the State’s Ministry of Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs.

The two Monarchs cut in the web of abeyance were HRH Igwe Onwuamaeze Ezeani (Igwe Ugonabo, Neni) Neni in Anaocha Local Government Area of the state who conferred a chieftaincy title on the senator representing Anambra South, Chief Ifeanyi Ubah on December 29th, 2023 as part of his 20th Ofala Festival and Chief Daniel Obelle of Nawfia in Njikoka Local Government Area who On January 4th, 2024, conferred Chieftaincy titles on no fewer than 40 persons in Nawfia during the Igu Aro festival of Nawfia Community.

The traditional institution is sacred and ordained by God ( Chi na emeze) as the custodians of culture and traditions of the land and needs to be carried out with utmost sense of wisdom and carefulness. In addition Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration respects and hold traditional rulers in esteem and acknowledges their good works and efforts in facilitating achievement of his vision for the state, especially at the grassroots. The monarchs play pivotal roles in Anambra State in facilitating community development.

However, there is a Code of Conduct for Anambra State Traditional Rulers which states that any monarch who wants to confer chieftaincy title on any individual must first notify and get approval from the state government through the Ministry of Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, explaining what the person has done for the community to deserve such honour and chieftaincy title. This law is not hidden to any of the traditional rulers.

The essence of getting the clearance wasn’t meant to witch-hunt anyone rather the process will help to ensure that chieftaincy titles are conferred on deserving individuals and also motivate others to do good works. It will equally help to prevent duplication of chieftaincy titles (giving the same chieftaincy titles to two or more different people), as well as guard against potential abuse of the traditional stool.

Further more, the traditional ruler of the hometown of the person to be conferred with the chieftaincy title (if he is from another town other than that of the monarch giving him the chieftaincy title) must also be contacted to attest for the character and integrity of the person before he would be conferred with the chieftaincy title, to ensure chieftaincy titles are not given to people who have questionable characters and integrity problem.

The question is, was this law made today? Does Governor Chukwuma Soludo initiate this law? Is he witch-hunting the traditional rulers? Is he against conferment of chieftaincy titles on deserving individuals?

The monarchs were not suspended because they confer chieftaincy titles rather It was a clear case of violation of laws. There are other traditional rulers who gave chieftaincy titles to individuals in the state and were not suspended.

The truth remains that laws are meant to be obeyed and not to be violated. Traditional rulers being the custodians of culture and traditions are expected to lead by example in their various communities by working in harmonious relationship with the state government which would in turn be reciprocated by their subjects.

ANAMBRA COMMUNITY VOWS TO REJIG SECURITY ARCHITECTURE, ESTABLISH FIRE BRIGADE

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Oba community in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State has disclosed its plans to review its security strategies and strengthen security architecture to address security challenges in the area.

The newly elected President General of the community. Engr. Uzochukwu Ejiofor who dropped the hint shortly after his victory following election of the Oba Patroitic Union (OPU) said restoration of peace and unity among members of the community would be top priority in his administration.

He also disclosed plans to set up a standard fire brigade centre to curb incessant challenges of fire outbreak in the community.

He said, “The expectations of the great people of Oba will be met because our tenure will be as transparent and focused as possible and focused.

“In the past, we have had serious security challenges but we are going to review our security strategies and strengthen the security architecture to ensure such challenges do not repeat again, even beyond our regime.

“We look forward to restore the peace, unity and dignity of our people, as a key agenda of our administration.

“We also plan to set up a standard fire brigade centre here because we have a lot of businesses, industries, and residential buildings due to the cosmopolitan nature of the town.

“This will help us curb the incessant challenges of fire outbreak we experience every now and then.

“I will, in my address to Ndi Oba soon, present a detailed development agenda for the community.”

Describing his victory as divine, Ejiofor commended the Interim Town Union Government (ITUG) and the electoral committee for delivering transparent and credible election to Oba people.

He pledged to work with his co-contestants and critical stakeholders in the community to bring about the long expected peace, unity and development in the town.

“Once again I thank God Almighty and congratulate Ndi Oba whom this victory primarily belongs to and I extend my hand of fellowship to my colleagues in the executive to join me in this onerous task of uniting and rebuilding our dear town Oba ebo iteghete.”

Declaring Ejiofor winner in a keenly contested election, Electoral Committee Chairman, Mr Liberty Maduekwe said Ejiofor polled 370 votes to defeat his only opponent, Ogechukwu Obasoanya, who secured 179 votes.

Other positions, aside those of Secretary General and Chief Provost, were unopposed at the election duly supervised by Transition Committee Chairman of Idemili South LGA, Hon Amaka Obi and officials of Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Town Union Affairs, Awka.

Earlier, Idemili South TC Chairman, Obi described the election as critical in view of the community’s strategic position to the Council area and the state, stressing that government presence was to ensure peace and orderliness of the exercise.

“The state government is interested in promoting peace across all communities of the state, through the entrenchment of democratically-elected town union executives,” she said.

Obi charged the newly-elected town union executives to work in accordance with the community’s constitution as they carry everybody along in their developmental efforts.

Congratulating the new executives, Regent of the town, Prince Noel Ezenwa urged them to ensure Oba remained united while bond of brotherliness among them be nurtured at all times.

He said the community has through the election, demonstrated their preparadness to commence journey of rebuilding their homeland.

Chairman of the outgone Interim Government of the Community, Sir Osita Ubadi described the election as one of the most transparent conducted in the history of the community, urging the new leadership to work towards giving the community a befitting traditional ruler in the nearest future.

“I’m happy my leadership was able to accomplish the tasks assigned them by government, as well as other achievements for the community,” he said.

A stakeholder in the community, Prof Austen Azubogu commended the advisory role of the Idemili South Transition Committee Chairman, Hon Obi, in ensuring that the elections were successful and concluded in transparent manner.

It was gathered that absence of executives had contributed to delay in electing a new traditional ruler, as all forms of crimes, including youth restiveness, sales and encroachment of communally-owned lands, held sway in the community occasioned by lack of leadership.

State Government had through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Town Union Affairs, created the Interim Town Union Government, ITUG to ensure conduct of election of new executives of the OPU before end of 2023.

ORUMBA NORTH TC CHAIRMAN LAUDS GOV. SOLUDO ON RICE DISTRIBUTION

By Chioma Ezeiru / Charity Okechukwu :

Orumba North Transition Committee Chairman, Sir Ogochukwu Ekwueme has lauded Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his impactful palliative measures to the people of Anambra State especially the vulnerable and less privileged.

Sir Ekwueme, who made the commendation in an interview with information officers at the local government secretariat, Ajalli, said that Gov. Charles Soludo is God sent to the people of Anambra State especially at this critical time.

The Orumba North TC Chairman noted that “It is worthy of emulation that at this difficult time across the country, the Anambra State governor, Professor Charles Soludo, in his kind and humane nature, has approved the distribution of about 200,000 bags of 10kg rice to the poorest of the poor across the length and breadth of the state to help cushion the effects of subsidy removal.

“We give kudos to the governor. In Orumba North, we have received about 7,500 bags of rice already and still expecting the remaining 2000 bags before we begin distribution to various wards and communities. And we will not distribute them until we have the list of recipients from the various wards, which we will vet and ensure that the rice gets to only those it is actually meant for,” he added.

Sir Ekwueme also stated that measures have been put in place by his leadership to avoid irregularities and ensure transparent and appropriate disbursement of the palliative.

“Due to our experience in the coconut and palm tree seedlings disbursement, we have sat and put together measures that will ensure fair selection of beneficiaries and equitable distribution of the palliative. We have formed supervisory committee at the local government level which I am a member and also supervisory committee at the ward levels which constitutes the councillors, presidents-general, clergy men, civil society organisations, etc for proper monitoring, supervision and distribution.

“Also in the beneficiary selection process, we are working through the umunnas. Each village already have their umunna in place. The umunnas know their people and know those members who are actually deserving of the palliative.

“This is how the list is generated. Every local government has its peculiarities but our job is to key into the solution mantra, ensure that it gets to the right beneficiaries and the local government is doing a good job. Each ward is expected to receive no fewer than 400-650 bags of rice and we have about 19 wards in Orumba North Local Government Area alone.

“This is massive and first of its kind. It is a good and welcome development. We are really grateful to Gov. Soludo for putting smiles on the faces of our people in this festive season. At least, our people are assured of rice for this yuletide celebration. Ndi Anambra should give him their full support as he takes the state to enviable heights.”

Speaking further, Sir Ekwueme described the state government palliative measures as all encompassing and transformational.

According to him, the Soludo administration is determined to bring dividends of democracy to Ndi Anambra especially the grassroots through provision of free education from nursery to junior secondary school(J.S.S 3), permitting only N5000 school fees for Senior Secondary Schools; free ante natal care and delivery services for expectant mothers in the state, youth empowerment, massive road construction, employment of teachers and health workers.

The Orumba-North TC boss expressed gratitude to God Almighty and Gov. Soludo for the privilege to serve the people of Orumba North.

“I thank God and Gov. Soludo for this opportunity to serve my people. I am a man of service. I like to help and assist people, it is in my nature and background.

“We have been here for about 15 months. It has been a challenging and tough one because governance is not easy especially in Nigeria. But I believe that we have been able to make some positive impact in the lives of our people. They should keep on supporting us by paying their taxes and levies as at when due to enable us generate funds and carry out some necessary projects in the local government area,” he said.

_Chioma and Charity are of the Ministry of Information_

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

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*