MDA News

Anambra State Government news from Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

UNIZIK FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE HOSTS BOOTCAMP ON ACADEMIC WRITING AND PRESENTATION

By Nwanodu Angela :

The One-Day Staff Training Bootcamp on Academic Writing and Presentation, with the theme, “Publish with Confidence, Promote with Ease” organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), brought together academics, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss how to elevate the visibility of research works through effective publishing strategies.

Held at the UNIZIK Business School Hall, the event highlighted practical training for publishing in prestigious journals like Scopus and Clarivate and culminated in the presentation of partnership awards to organizations, including the Anambra State ICT Agency for their unwavering support.

Prof. Fredrick Odibo, representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, emphasized the importance of confidence in academic writing, urging participants to focus on producing works that solve real-world problems and evoke lasting impressions.

The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika representing the NUJ Anambra State Council Chairman, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu encouraged academics to collaborate more with the media. She underscored the need for their works to reach a wider audience through strategic communication and media engagement.

Dr. Ngozi Osuchukwu, representing Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, National Librarian and CEO of the National Library of Nigeria, highlighted the need for accessibility in academic works. She introduced participants to open access platforms, such as international repositories, Google Scholar, and even Wikipedia, as avenues to make research widely available without financial strain.

She advocated for ethical use of AI in academic writing and stressed the value of producing research that addresses societal challenges, earns citations, and stands the test of time.

The MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the agency’s role in advancing digital libraries and academic repositories. He highlighted the critical role technology plays in modernizing academia and commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for prioritizing technology under the Solution Agenda.

He emphasized the agency’s efforts to bridge the gap between research and digital infrastructure, empowering academics to publish and promote their works globally. Key initiatives include high-speed broadband, cloud-based digital libraries, and capacity-building programs. The agency’s investment in public WiFi and strategic partnerships is also creating equitable access to digital tools for researchers.

The training concluded with renewed commitments from stakeholders to collaborate in creating a robust academic environment where research is not just produced but amplified globally.

Participants left inspired and better equipped to navigate the publishing landscape, assured of the infrastructural and institutional support provided by the Solution Administration.

* Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

RE: OPEN LETTER TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL/COMMISSIONER FOR JUSTICE ANAMBRA STATE: A REPLY TO CHIEF NICHOLAS ORJIAKOR

Please permit me to adopt the medium that was used to reach the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Anambra state – an open letter.

My attention has been drawn to the publication by Chief Nicholas Orjiakor, Chairman of the Anambra Indigenous Assembly (A.I.A.), New Jersey Chapter, U.S.A. The open letter was published on social media, wherein he alleged unprofessional misconduct of Justice Okaa of the Anambra State Judiciary. All the alleged complaints contained therein have been well noted; however, I regret to inform you that while I concede that Prof. Sylvia Chika Ifemeje is the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Anambra State, she is, however, not the head of the judicial arm of the government. It is therefore outside the scope of her power to initiate the investigation of the alleged acts leveled against the judicial officer in question.

Your open letter, therefore, needs to be properly routed. It ought to have been routed via the National Judicial Council (NJC), the statutory body vested with the power to investigate such allegations by the constitution.

I, however, assure you of Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s (CFR) administration’s total commitment to justice for all, irrespective of one’s social status. Be further assured of the current administration’s zero tolerance for injustice. You are therefore advised that if your complaints are properly channelled through the National Judicial Council (NJC), they will be given the appropriate attention they deserve.

Law Mefor, PhD

Commissioner for Information

Anambra State.

THE SOLUTION WEEKLY BULLETIN….. VOL.1 NO. 9

OIL PALM ECONOMY: ANAMBRA OUTLINES BENEFITS, SEEKS VALUE CHAIN COLLABORATIONS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government has reiterated its commitment to developing oil palm production as a veritable tool for improved livelihood and economic transformation of the state.

The State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, made this known while receiving a delegation from Federal Ministry of Industry,Trade and Investment, Ministry of Finance and National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPAN) in his office.

He highlighted the need for collaborations to utilize derivable benefits from the value chain to create job opportunities and for economic development.

“Our Governor understands the importance of the palm, he understands the importance of it economically and as food security item and poverty eradication. He understands how the value chain translates to stable jobs.

“He decided what to do is to support small holder farmers to strengthen their businesses and create as it were raw material base for value chain activities.

“We have done that now for the past three years, next year will be the fourth year and we are looking forward to beginning to see the fruits of these interventions.

“We expect aggregators and primary processors to begin to emerge. We, then, need to collaborate with NPAN to organise their activities along oil palm into sustainable businesses.”

The Commissioner expressed optimism that collaborations would create more opportunities especially in the oil palm development value chain.

He reasoned that if Nigerians embraced oil palm economy, it would not only improve on their lives but become the nation’s major source of income to boost economic development.

In a remark, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka, urged the federal government delegation to always consider it proper to publicize incentives and other support services to enable stakeholders to key into them.

She called for strengthening of the Bank of Industry (BOI) to make it more responsive to its mandate, pointing out that Anambra State Small Business Agency(ASBA) had demonstrated more commitment to providing credit facilities for agriculture.

Earlier, Mr Akeju Olutayo Kehinde, Industrial Development Department, Federal Ministry of Industry,Trade and Investment, had told the Commissioner that they visited to gather information, data that could enable government to assist oil palm producers.

He added that federal government would want to know their challenges, know the aggregate demand and supply of oil palm as well as number of processing firms in the state.

Akeju, enumerated existing incentives provided by the federal government for NPAN to include, Backward Integration Program Certificate, Import Duty Exemption Certificate, Industrial Cluster Construction Support, Pioneer Status and Capital Allowance.

He stated the resolve of federal government to reposition the oil palm sector for optimal production and to help NPAN to expand their businesses.

The representative of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Silas Haruna Versila, Technical Services Dept, said that government provided lots of non interest loan through the Bank of Industry and zero duty oil palm machinery importation as well as implementation of financial policies that would assist producers.

Spokesman of Nigeria Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Anambra State Chapter, Mr Arthur Onweluzo, appreciated the delegation and assured of their readiness to synergise with government to promote oil palm production in the country.

*Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

RATTAWU MCET CHAPTER CELEBRATES END-OF-YEAR PARTY CUM SEND-OFF FOR RETIRED MEMBERS

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

The Radio, Television, Theatre, and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism (MCET) Chapter, held a grand End-of-Year Party during which three retired members; Mr Emma Umeokana, Mr Paulo Onyejefu, and Mrs Ebere Oboshi, were sent off and appreciated for their outstanding contributions to the union throughout their career.

At the occasion, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr Don Onyenji praised the organizing committee for the program and expressed his appreciation to the retirees for their dedication to the union during their years of service. He said, “Being part of a trade union means you are committed to addressing issues that affect workers and society.

“A union is not just about festivities; it’s a system where knowledge and technical skills are utilized to achieve desired goals. To succeed in this mission, you must be scientific in your approach, serious in your endeavours, and informed about your surroundings.

“You should also familiarize yourself with the civil service system, understand how it operates, read the public service rules and regulations, and engage with the mandate of the Governor to stay well-informed,” he emphasized.

In his remarks, the RATTAWU National Vice President for the South East, Prince Emeka Kalu, expressed gratitude to the commissioner for elevating the union during his tenure. He noted that the MCET RATTAWU Chapter is exceptional and has strong leaders who demonstrate outstanding performance.

“This chapter is doing well, and I commend your hard work. I also thank Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for his significant efforts in improving road infrastructure, hospitals, schools, and other notable projects. I urge the state Governor to consider constructing an Arts Council in Anambra State,” he appealed.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Chairman of RATTAWU MCET Chapter, Nneka Nwaechia, thanked the Commissioner, South East RATTAWU National Vice President, and attendees for honouring the invitation. She encouraged everyone to take their jobs seriously and work hard.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of gifts to the retirees.

*Ifeyinwa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ASHIA LAUNCHES 2025–2029 STRATEGIC HEALTH DEVELOPMENT PLAN TO STRENGTHEN HEALTH COVERAGE IN ANAMBRA STATE

By Chisom Okafor :

The Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) has taken a significant step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by launching its 2025–2029 Strategic Health Development Plan (SHDP) during the commemoration of Universal Health Coverage Day 2024. The initiative reflects ASHIA’s dedication to ensuring access to quality and affordable healthcare for all residents of the state.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, Managing Director of ASHIA, highlighted the importance of UHC, describing it as the ability of all individuals to access essential healthcare services without financial hardship. He commended Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for his unwavering support, which has enabled the agency to achieve milestones since its establishment.

Dr. Onyemaechi said that ASHIA has already enrolled over 230,000 active beneficiaries in its health insurance scheme and aimed to cover 90% of Anambra’s population by 2030 through the newly launched SHDP.

The 2025–2029 SHDP provides a roadmap for expanding health insurance coverage, improving service quality, and ensuring the sustainability of healthcare financing in the state. It aligns with Nigeria’s national goal of achieving UHC by 2030 and sets a precedence for other subnational efforts in healthcare reform.

Representing the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, praised ASHIA’s efforts in enhancing healthcare delivery and urged Ndi Anambra to embrace the insurance scheme for better health outcomes.

Hon. Tony Muobike, Chairman of the Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Health, described the SHDP as a transformational initiative and assured legislative support to facilitate its successful implementation.

The event also featured goodwill messages from key stakeholders, including representatives from Civil Society Organizations, National Health Insurance Authority, World Health Organization (WHO), and State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. Each commended ASHIA for its forward-thinking approach to healthcare.

The launch of the Strategic Health Development Plan marked the climax of the ceremony, reinforcing Anambra State’s commitment to building a robust and inclusive healthcare system. With this plan, ASHIA aims to improve health outcomes, enhance equity, and provide financial protection for residents as the state advances toward achieving UHC by 2030.

*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA’S SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS SHINE IN GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S YOUTH EMPOWERMENT DRIVE

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

Students with special needs in Anambra State are actively participating in Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s initiatives to equip the next generation with practical skills and opportunities for self-reliance.

During a recent visit to the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, the management of God’s Care Special Children’s School, Awka, showcased products crafted by their students. Among the items presented were various types of footwear and a handmade box, reflecting the students’ creativity and skill.

Commending their efforts, Commissioner Chuma-Udeh expressed delight at the students’ achievements, affirming the adage,”There is ability in disability”.

She encouraged other special needs students across the state to emulate the entrepreneurial spirit displayed by those at God’s Care Special Children’s School.

*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

WORKS COMMENCES ON UMUONA-AGULUZOIGBO -NANKA ROAD

By Sunday Okoli :

Construction work has commenced on Umuona-Aguluzoigbo -Nanka Road project recently awarded by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo in the last two EXCO meeting.

The handover ceremony of the road was performed by the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Ifeanyi Okoma. He charged the contractor to expedite action on the road and complete within schedule.

The Commissioner who was represented by the Director of Planning, Design and Structural Department in the Ministry, Engr. Obi Okafor said that the road will connect Umuona, Aguluzoigbo and Nnaka communities. He said that the contract was in continuation of Mr. Governor’s promise to give Ndi Anambra dividend of democracy. According to the Commissioner, the completion period of the contract is 12 months.

On his part, the Area Manager of IDC Construction Ltd, Engr. Youssef Zghib promised to deliver the works on schedule and according to specifications as contained in the BEME.

*Sunday is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA HEALTH COMMISSIONER URGES STAKEHOLDERS ON IMMUNIZATIONS ROLES

By Nnedinma Okeke :

As part of Pre implementation activities to ensure success in the Big Catch Up (BCU) campaign to be held in nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) with zero dose/unimmunized children, Stakeholders in a meeting has been urged to play their roles by ensuring immunization message gets to grassroots.

The nine LGAs includes: Aguata, Ayamelum, Anaocha, Idemili North, Idemili South, Ihiala, Orumba North, Orumba South, and Nnewi South LGAs respectively.

The Stakeholders Engagement/Town hall meeting for the BCU exercise was organised by the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners.

Commissioner, SMOH, Dr Afam Obidike represented by the Permanent Secretary, SMOH, Pharm Obiageli Uchebo noted that immunization campaigns were opportunities for Stakeholders to play their roles in their respective communities.

“This is the time for us to inform, sensitize, and educate our people on vaccinations which is important, and key in eliminating vaccine preventable diseases.”

He explained that the catch-up exercise was an opportunity for missed children of zero to 59 months of age to be reached and immunised as vaccinations has drastically reduced deaths and abnormalities caused by vaccine preventable diseases.

The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem emphasized that immunization messages were life saving messages toward good health and well-being for all.

The ES represented by the Director Disease Control and Immunization, ASPHCDA, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi pleaded the Stakeholders to ensure that the immunization messages get to every part of their communities to ensure that no missed child was left unimmunized.

The Anambra State Chapter, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Venerable Joseph Nweke, thanked the State Government and Partners supporting the programme for all their efforts in ensuring that children were protected from vaccine preventable diseases.

He assured that Religious leaders would play their roles in ensuring that the BCU campaign was successful in the implementing LGAs of the State.

Prince Chris Azor, Chairman Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Anambra, noting that idea behind the BCU campaign was not to leave any child unimmunized, assured of CSOs support in informing and sensitising people on the exercise for it to achieve its desired results.

The meeting had in attendance: Traditional Rulers, Religious leaders, Presidents General, Women Leaders, Youths, CSOs, Education Stakeholders, the Media, State Team, and Partners.

*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

TREFOIL GUILD APPLAUDS GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S GENDER-INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP, INDUCTS PROF. NGOZI CHUMA-UDEH

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

The Trefoil Guild, a branch of the Girls’ Guild Association, has praised Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for achieving the association’s 30% female inclusion benchmark in his administration.

During an advocacy visit to the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, at the Ministry of Education in Awka, the guild expressed its support for the governor’s commitment to gender equality.

In her remarks, Prof. Chuma-Udeh appreciated the association for recognizing Gov. Soludo’s gender-friendly policies and for inducting her as a member of the Trefoil Guild. She lauded the Girls’ Guild for its dedication to empowering young girls and preparing them to face life’s challenges.

Dr. Ngozi Amalu-Okpala, the team leader, highlighted that the visit was part of the annual United Nations 16 day activism against domestic violence and abuse of women and girls. She commended Gov. Soludo’s inclusion of women in leadership, emphasizing its alignment with the guild’s mission of advocacy and empowerment.

Former Commissioner for Women Affairs and guild member TG Bridget Obi further stressed the importance of women’s inclusion in decision-making processes, noting that their participation ensures balance and societal growth. She called for an end to all forms of domestic violence, including physical, mental, and financial abuse, and advocated for increased education for boys as a way to foster equality and reduce gender-based conflicts.

The visit culminated in the induction of Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh as a member of the Trefoil Guild, with the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, and the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nnaemeka Egwuonwu, in attendance.

*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State