By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo/Ifeanyi Nwegbo :
Senior citizens have been advised to make food their medicine, as the old adage goes.
Ogugua Onyeachonam, a preventive health specialist, gave this advice during the National Union of Pensioners, Onitsha Chapter’s end-of-year meeting at the Onitsha North Local Government Secretariat.
According to Onyeachonam, the food you eat will either keep you or harm you. She emphasised the importance of older people eating more natural foods, citing local rice as a better option than polished rice. “Avoid the intake of processed food,” she warned.
Onyeachonam also reminded the men in attendance that prostate issues are a common experience for many men.
Drawing from her personal experience as a health practitioner who neglected her own health while caring for others, resulting in her having a stroke, Onyeachanam urged everyone to prioritise self-care. “You are your own best doctor,” she said.
In line with this advice, research has equally shown that a balanced diet rich in natural foods can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, while whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provide essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being.
Therefore, by making informed food choices and adopting healthy eating habits, retirees can reduce their risk of chronic diseases and maintain their physical and mental health as they age.
Meanwhile, the Vice Chairman, NUP, Onitsha chapter, Dr Amaka Osemenam confirmed that she has received her retirement benefits from the state government and encouraged other retirees to take control of their finances by investing in treasury bills.
Dr Osemenam explained that investing in treasury bills is a low-risk option that can provide a steady stream of income, pointing out that the interest rate and duration may vary per time.
*Kelechi, Ogochukwu and Ifeanyi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Mayor of Onitsha North LGA, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, has congratulated Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa on his Supreme Court victory, which affirmed his position as the duly elected National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) party.
In his congratulatory message, Mayor Nwora described Ezeokenwa as a visionary leader whose stewardship will strengthen the party and propel it toward greater success.
He commended Ezeokenwa’s dedication and resilience in leading APGA through challenging times, noting that the Supreme Court’s verdict is a testament to justice and fairness.
“This is a victory for democracy, justice, and our great party, APGA,” Mayor Nwora noted.
“Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa’s leadership has already begun to inspire unity and progress within the party, and I am confident he will lead APGA to even greater heights.”
The Mayor further extended his congratulations to all National Working Committee (NWC) members, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in building a stronger APGA.
He expressed optimism that the party’s renewed focus under Ezeokenwa’s leadership would position it as a formidable force in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Mayor Nwora ended his message by saying, “Ifesimba! Congratulations once again to you and all the NWC members of our great party on this meritorious victory.
This milestone reaffirms our faith in the judiciary and our collective resolve to build a better future for APGA and Nigeria.”
The Supreme Court’s decision has been widely celebrated by APGA stakeholders and supporters, who see it as a significant step toward unity and stability within the party.
According to him, with Ezeokenwa at the helm, party members are optimistic about a brighter and more prosperous future.
*Chioma, Claribel and Chika are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
Winners of the quiz competition based on Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Idemili North LGA had emerged during the marking of the Anambra Innovation Week (AIW) in the council area by secondary school students.
The Anambra Innovation Week (AIW) is designed to encourage and foster technological innovation among secondary school students in the state given the centrality of ICT in the development of a country.
During the two-day event, which took place at Idemili North LGA headquarters, innumerable students from over 30 schools participated in the presentation of technological innovations and ICT quiz competition.
At the end of the keenly contested quiz competition, Nwosu Kenneth Anthony from Divine Rays Demonstration School, Obosi came first; while Akuora Michael Onu and Frederick Nwachukwu, both from Dominican Sisters’ College, Abatete, took second and third position, respectively.
The winner of the ICT quiz competition in Idemili North LGA designed to mark Anambra Innovation Week(AIW) will receive a cash prize of N200,000 while the first runner-up and second runner-up will receive 150,000 and 100,000 naira, respectively.
Other schools in Idemili North LGA, which participated in the AIW quiz and presentation of technological innovation included Choice De Immaculate Demonstration School, Obosi; Arch Bishop Heerey Technical College, Ogidi; Mater Amabilis, Umuoji ; St. Anthony of Padua, Nkpor; and Ebelechukwu International School, Nkpor.
In his speech during the event, the chief moderator, Mr. Uchenna Franklin, advised the students, who participated in the quiz to perceive themselves as geniuses, their positions in the quiz notwithstanding.
“You are geniuses as long as you can read and write; and the positions you took in the contest are immaterial,
“And there is hope for Anambra State considering the level of competitiveness and knowledge displayed by the participating students, ” Uchenna said.
Nwosu, who won the contest attributed his success to the quality and wide range of ICT knowledge he received from his teachers and the computer programming course he studied.
*Chiedu and Bridget are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe (NOCEN) Alumni Association has urged the Anambra State Government to elevate the Institution to a degree awarding status or university of education considering that the college has consistently produced graduates who excel in their fields with the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.
The request was made during the Alumni Association Maiden Homecoming which held from Friday November 22nd to Sunday November 24th, 2024 at the Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe Anambra East LGA, Anambra State.
Speaking during the event, the NOCEN Alumni Association National President Prince Emeka Oramadike stated: “the time has come for the government to recognize the indispensable role NOCEN plays in our society and provide the intervention necessary to ensure that our college remains a beacon of educational excellence for years to come.
The Legal adviser to the Alumni Association, Nnadiume Awforkansi appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to put up an executive bill to elevate the Institution to the House of Assembly, saying that majority of the lecturers in the college are also lecturing degree students. “We want the governor not just to elevate the Institution to a degree awarding status but to make it a pioneer University of Education in the entire South Eastern Nigeria.
Earlier in her welcome address, the NOCEN Provost, Dr Mrs. Justina Anyadiegwu who was represented by the Dean of Students Affairs, Dr Michael Ejike Meze said that the pressing needs facing the college include sourcing for revenue and upgrading the college to a university of education.
The keynote Speaker, Head of Department of Mathematics, NOCEN, Ven Dr. Charles Chukwurah who spoke on the ‘Role of College of Education in Emerging Digital Education of our Changing World’ urged both the federal and state government to fund digital education thereby providing an enabling environment for both educators and learners.
The Chairman Maiden Homecoming Planning Committee, UBAKA Onwuanuibe who graduated from the College in 1987 said that the 3-day event featured fraternizing with the college environment, parleying with the students, gala night, lectures, keynote addresses by resource persons, launching of Alumni projects especially the Re-activation, Rehabilitation and reticulation of college water boreholes, Merit Awards/ Special Recognitions and Admission into NOCEN Alumni Hall of Fame, Cultural dances, Church Service among others.
Those admitted into the Alumni Hall of Fame include Vice Chancellor Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Prof Mrs Kate Azuka Omenugha, Life Patron, NOCEN Alumni Association, a pioneer student of the college. Receiving the award on her behalf was her classmate, Mr Chidi Tagbo, a retired Principal and others.
A University Don at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Dr Mrs. Chioma Alice Onwuasoigwe of Class of 87′ who was so excited about the newly established NOCEN Alumni Association called on every Alumnus of the College to think home, join hands together with the leadership of the Alumni to move the Association forward while giving back to their alma mater.
Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Anambra State Government is set to establish a Bentonite Processing Factory, leveraging the area’s vast Bentonite deposits to empower citizens through industrialization and wealth creation.
Prof. Charles O. Ofoegbu, Managing Director/CEO of Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited (ANSSMDCL), led an inspection visit to the donated land for the factory in Achalla-agu, Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area, accompanied by agency officials and community representatives.
The ASSMDCL boss, after the inspection and handover of about 7 hectares of land in Nteje noted that the state government aims to formalise the partnership with the Nteje community to harness the area’s vast Bentonite deposits for the production of oil and water based Bentonite needed in Petroleum and water drilling.
Prof. Ofoegbu stated that the project will lead to industrialization and overall development of the Community which has already received the approval of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, and work on the project is expected to take off in January, 2025.
The President General of the Community, Dr Nnamdi Iloduba thanked the delegations and expressed the readiness of the town to play host to the government when the work kicks off.
Chairman, Achalla-agu Nteje, Mr Igwebuike Nwoye and Chairman, Oji Ani Nteje, Chief Francis Uchendu in their separate interviews, expressed their excitement and commended the state governor for bringing such a huge project to their community.
They were hopeful that the project would bring about massive development and industrialization to their community, while reducing unemployment and criminalities among the youths. They further assured the workers that would be working at the factory and officials of the government of their safety.
Nsofor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Director, Anambra State Fire Service Mr Chiketa Chukwudi Emmanuel has sensitized the traders of Old Motor Car Parts Dealers Association, Mgbuka Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State on the tips to control and prevent fire outbreak in homes and shops.
He emphasized the importance of fire safety, noting that while fire is essential for cooking and other vital purposes, it can be devastating if not controlled. He explained that the fire service regularly visits markets, banks, schools, and companies to educate the public on fire safety and prevention.
Speaking shortly after the market weekly prayer at the market, Chiketa cautioned traders to exercise extra caution during the upcoming festive season to prevent fire outbreaks. He shared valuable tips, emphasizing the importance of switching off electrical appliances such as fans and air conditioners in homes and shops before leaving. He stressed that prevention is better than cure, particularly during the harmattan and Christmas seasons.
Chiketa also disclosed that the state House of Assembly has recently mandated every building to have overhead tank and fire extinguisher to avoid fire outbreak.
The Chairman of the market, Chief Samuel Ifurunwa appreciated Governor Charles Soludo for his tremendous efforts and developmental strides in the state, advising the traders to adhere to all the teachings and instructions learnt.
Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
In a significant development, the Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Mr. Tony Nworah, has successfully restored electricity to the council’s secretariat after over 15 years of darkness. The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) reconnected power to the premises, marking a major milestone for the local government.
According to the Mayor, the move is expected to greatly improve working conditions for staff housed by the council, including local, state, and federal government employees.
He noted that he is committed to provide a conducive environment for public servants.
Azuka and Amaechina are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Anambra State Commissioner for Child and Women Affairs, Mrs. Ify Obinabor, has praised Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for his remarkable achievements in just two years and eight months. She highlighted his development strides, impactful initiatives, and commitment to children, women, and the oppressed.
Commissioner Obinabor emphasized the importance of wise voting during elections and encouraged women to prioritize training their children. She also advised against pressuring husbands and children, promoting farming with organic fertilizers, and listening to the Governor’s wife, Nonye Soludo, on healthy living.
She said this at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Amawbia during the Catholic Women Organization (CWO), Amawbia Deanery 2024 Triennial Convention and Fund Raising for the completion of her Stella Maris Skill Acquisition Centre on Nov. 23.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, praised women’s vital roles in the family, church, and society. He expressed his commitment to supporting women, driven by his affection for mothers. Through his representative, Lady Oge Okoye, Sen. Umeh shared his efforts to provide scholarships to deserving individuals, aiming to bring joy to their lives, urging them to live out their apostolate.
The Director, CWO Awka Diocese, Lady Sabina Ndigwe, expressed her amazement at the impressive turnout of members. She highlighted two key aspects of the event: embracing motherhood as a sacred vocation and fundraising.
Lady Ndigwe praised the exceptional teaching and personal examples exhibited during the event, which she described as unparalleled in her time with CWO. She commended a woman who demonstrated remarkable virtues, encouraging all members to emulate her example.
The Director also thanked the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Pius Okoye, for recognizing and rewarding the woman’s virtues. Additionally, Lady Ndigwe promised to present the woman with a CWO uniform, aiming to inspire others to demonstrate kindness and generosity.
Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Nwankiti, Chaplain of CWO Amawbia Deanery, warmly welcomed all attendees, particularly the invited guests. He acknowledged the disproportionate impact of the economic challenges on women, offering prayers for peace, progress, and unity as they fulfill their roles as mothers.
Mazi Peter Chukwuemeka Nwafor, the Chairman of the occasion, emphasized the vital role women play in society, stating that without them, there would be no family, church, or community. He appealed to the clergy and others to support women, recognizing their invaluable contributions.
Nwafor also acknowledged Nigeria’s paradoxical situation, where the country suffers despite its abundant resources. He attributed this to poor leadership, which has led to youth restiveness. To address this, he advocated for the implementation of skill acquisition programs, which would engage youths meaningfully, urging the executive to invest the realized funds into this project, promoting a more prosperous future for Nigeria.
Earlier in his homily, Rev. Fr. Daniel Eduzor, Rector St. John Bosco Seminary, Isuaniocha, acknowledged the challenges of motherhood, encouraging mothers to cultivate a consistent and persistent relationship with God. He urged them to diligently fulfill their duties as true Christian mothers, relying on their faith to guide them.
In her welcome address, Lady Rose Nwokolo, Organizer of CWO Amawbia Deanery, expressed gratitude to God for His love and mercy, which enabled them to participate in the triennial event. She reminded mothers of their vital roles as home builders and the foundation of a strong family.
Lady Nwokolo appealed to attendees to donate generously, either in cash or kind, to support the completion of the Stella Maris Skill Acquisition Centre. This initiative aims to provide employment and training opportunities for the deanery’s youths, empowering them to achieve self-actualization and dignity.
She extended her appreciation to those who had already donated and commended the Deanery Chaplain, Emerita Organizers, and her executive for their unwavering support and guidance.
Mrs. Chinyere Obunabo, Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to God and Mother Mary for the event’s success. She thanked all attendees, especially the Deputy Speaker, Commissioner for Child and Women Affairs as well as the Awardees for gracing the occasion, wishing all journey mercies back to their destinations.
The event featured installation of Awardees, march pass, unveiling of Our Lady Statue and Convention Cake, lightening of candles, Deanery Royal family and Queen Competitions.
*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Principal, Comprehensive Science and Technical College, Nawfia Venerable Dr. Nnamdi Emendu has commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for augumenting the salaries of civil servants in the state to cushion the effects of the harsh economic realities in Nigeria.
Venerable Emendu in a press statement in Nawfia, acknowledged the gesture as a relative relief strategy that needs to be reviewed upwards to properly take home civil servants who have multifarious challenges facing them in the challenging nation’s economy.
Expressing delight that the Soludo administration appreciates the contributions of the state work force in the administration of the state, he urged that such efforts be motivated by a further push in their take home pay.
Venerable Emendu further spoke of the College’s zero tolerance to examination malpractices and cultism, and its compliance with the state government’s approved use of Igbo language for communications and the wearing of Igbo cultural attire during school hours on Wednesdays in all approved government schools in the state.
He confirmed that Comprehensive Science Students do come to school on Wednesdays in their traditional Igbo attire except for some new intakes in the school who have taken delivery of their traditional attire waiting for it to be sewed after which they will join their colleagues in wearing it to school on the approved days.
Venerable Emendu used the forum to appreciate the Proprietor of the College and the Archbishop of the Niger Province and the Anglican bishop of Awka diocese Most Reverend Dr. Alexander Ibezim for his zero tolerance to cultism, examination malpractices, gay practices and other vices in the college and in all the Anglican mission schools in the Province.
He lauded his Grace’s fatherly overseeing of the activities of the college and wished him well in his endeavors.
Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that the shooting incident which happened at Izuchukwu junction, Nnobi/Nnewi Road by 7 pm on Wednesday November 20 was not carried out by non-state actors and also not about Senator Ifeanyi Uba’s burial.
A statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga explained that security operatives mistook police personnel for unfriendly forces, leading to the exchange of gunfire.
According to him, “preliminary investigations reveal that the security operatives were trailing a suspect when the gun duel ensued at a security checkpoint.
“Unfortunately, bullets hit the fuel tank of the Toyota Venza Sedan carrying the men, and it was razed down. Two innocent passers-by were injured and taken to hospital.”
Ikenga further emphasized that the incident was not carried out by non-state actors, assuring the public that the situation is under control and that the attack was not an attempt to disrupt the burial ceremonies of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
To ensure peace and security during the burial ceremonies, joint security forces have been deployed to Nnewi and the public is urged to remain calm and allow investigations into the incident to proceed.
Kalu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
