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Anambra State Government news from Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

UNLOCKING THE FUTURE OF JOURNALISM: ANAMBRA ICT AGENCY, ACTIV8 HUB EMPOWER MEDIA PROFESSIONALS ON AI

By Angela Nwanodu :

In line with its vision aimed at digitally revolutionizing the media landscape, the Anambra State ICT Agency, in collaboration with Activ8 Hub, on Thursday, hosted an enriching workshop on Artificial Intelligence in Journalism for media professionals. 

The workshop took the practitioners through emerging AI models, such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Bing AI, Microsoft Copilot, among others, with the aim of enhancing their journalistic practices, ensure more efficient, accurate and compelling reportage.

 The event featured experts such as;  Mr. Chukwuma Mezie-Okoye, co-founder of Activ8 Hub, and Nehemiah Onyekachukwu Emmanuel, an AI Engineer with Microsoft who offered deep insight into the transformative impact of AI in journalism. With a focus on leveraging AI to bolster productivity, fact-checking, and narrative crafting, the session illuminated the path for journalists to integrate these cutting-edge tools into their work responsibly.

It also marked a significant stride in Anambra’s technological advancement, as was highlighted by the MD/CEO of Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata who shared insights into the progress of work on the state’s ICT infrastructural development, which he noted has vastly improved internet connectivity, thus facilitating more innovative initiatives.

According to him, the digital revolution ongoing in the state is only possible because Mr Governor, Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo understands the 21st Century technology demands and is providing the support and political will required to guarantee such advancements. 

“This workshop not only signifies Anambra State’s commitment to empowering its journalists but also reflects the government’s dedication to leveraging technology for societal advancement. 

“As AI continues to evolve, Anambra’s media professionals need to be better equipped to navigate the digital age, ensuring the delivery of credible, insightful, and engaging content to their audience.

“This training further underscores the state government’s undertanding of the critical role of media practitioners in the digital revolution in the state and our commitment to “EverythingTechnology, Technology Everywhere” in the state

“AI is  getting more sophisticated by the day and journalists must make the most use of the tool because it has the capacity to make enhance productivity,” Agbata concluded.

In his words, Co-Founder, Activ8 Hub, Mr. Chukwuma Mezie-Okoye, expressed profound appreciation for the partnership and pledged continued support towards the advancement of digital revolution in the state.

“The message is clear: Embrace AI, not as a replacement, but as a complement to journalistic excellence, shaping a more informed, discerning, and connected world, welcome to the future”.

Mr. Ogemdi Ozoemenam expressed gratitude on behalf of all participants, thanking the Anambra State Government and Activ8 Hub for the crucial training on AI in Journalism. ” We are optimistic that it will enhance our professional endeavors” he concluded.

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

ENVIRONMENT COMMISSIONER CHARGES NDI ANAMBRA TO KEY IN TO  HEALTHY LIVING WITH NONYE SOLUDO 

By Kennedy Aniedozie :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Dr Felix Odimegwu has charged Ndi Anambra to key in to the Healthy living with Nonye Soludo.

Healthy living with Nonye Soludo is a social health crusade founded by Dr.Nonye Soludo, the wife of the Governor of Anambra State, aims at  re-establishing a health conscious mindset and promote the philosophy of right health in families, schools and communities in Anambra State and beyond.

The mission is to mobilise all critical segments of the society to make healthy living an important culture 

Speaking at the ASUBEB hall, during the distribution of 27,000 cartons of vitamins supplements to elderly people in the 336 wards of Anambra State by Healthy living with Nonye Soludo, the commissioner reiterates that good health and clean environment will bring out productivity in the lives of every onye Anambra for maximum output in rendering services.

He thanked Mr.Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo for creating enabling environment for greener, clean and livable Anambra,  assuring the wife of the governor that he will personally take the crusade of healthy living with Nonye Soludo down to all corners of the state.

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

2023 PROF. NGOZI CHUMA-UDEH SPELLING BEE CHAMPIONS REWARDED: COMMISSIONER HAILS PUPILS’ DEDICATION 

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

 In her resolve to upscale the literacy skills of Anambra Students, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Ude has rewarded the winners of the 2023 Spelling Bee competition.

The competition held last year at Best Western Meloch Hotel, Awka featured first and third positions  clinched by Master Delight Okeke and Miss Lois Igube from Holy Ghost International Primary School, Awka.

Presenting the gifts to the pupils at Holy Ghost International Primary School Awka, the commissioner praised the pupils for their dedication to education and encouraged them to appreciate their parents’ efforts. 

She also acknowledged the school and its teachers for their role in shaping their futures. 

The school’s proprietor, Mrs Ubosi-Okeke Kenechukwu expressed gratitude to the commissioner and Governor Chukwuma Soludo for their contributions to the education sector. 

The highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes to the winning pupils by the commissioner.

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

ANAMBRA ICT AGENCY APPLAUDS GOV. SOLUDO’S TRANSPARENT APPOINTMENT PROCESS,  CONGRATULATES DR. FLORENCE IDIGO-IBENTA’S SUCCESS

By Angela Nwanodu  :

The Anambra State Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Agency has extended its sincere appreciation to  Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo for the transparent and merit-based appointment of new permanent secretaries in the state’s civil service.

According to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, the agency 

attest to Mr Governor’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance and his prioritization of meritocracy, which ensured that the appointments are based on the candidates’ qualifications and commitment to service.

“It is also not lost on us, the meticulous consideration of criteria such as professional spread, which helped identify high-performing individuals from different professions and climes, who have shown great commitment to serving Anambra State.

“Among the distinguished appointees is Dr. Florence Idigo-Ibenta, a Director in the state Civil service, serving with the Anambra State ICT Agency. 

“Dr. Florence’s contribution towards the state’s recognition at the 11th National Council on Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) meeting in Kano, signposts her dedication and leadership. 

While appreciating Governor Soludo’s visionary leadership and expresses profound gratitude for the appointment process that upholds the principles of fairness and equal opportunity, the agency  congratulates one of her own, Dr. Florence Idigo-Ibenta for this great accomplishment and wishes her greater breakthroughs and success in her new role.

_Angela is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State _

INVESTMENT: ANAMBRA GOVT INITIATES PLAN TO ESTABLISH ECONOMIC TIES WITH INDONESIA 

By Amaka Isikala :

The Industry Commissioner, Anambra State, Mr. Christian Udechukwu has said that the state government have initiated plans to establish economic ties and investment relationship with Indonesia as well as open the doors to bilateral travels.

Mr. Udechukwu said, “such is a unique opportunity for Nigeria, especially Anambra to build a stronger relationship in respect to industrial development.

The Commissioner made this known during a live conference call of the “2nd International Forum of Higher Education,Industry, Government Partnership Meeting and Education Expo” hosted by Anambra-Indonesia Industrial Partnership Development.

“Our interest in participating in this program is primarily to update ourselves on the opportunity that exist on both sides.”

According to the commissioner, Indonesia and Nigeria have a lot of things in common, saying that in terms of population, Indonesia is estimated to be about 275 billion while Nigeria is about 260 million.

“There is opportunities for companies in Indonesia to participate in infrastructure development for Nigeria particularly Anambra.

“I speak particularly in respect of oil and gas, food crops development such as palm oil, coconut, rice soy beans, sugar, corn and more.

“I am aware that between the periods of 1978 to 1988, Indonesia facing some good challenges made significant investments in food development with the result that there is a higher degree of food sufficiency in food production for Indonesia.

“Today, your research development and investment policies will be very useful to Nigeria at this moment. The global cost of living crises that started in Europe, UK and America last year has come to Nigeria and  so we are facing food security challenges.We can benefit from Indonesia experience to repeat what they did in 1978 to1988.

The Commissioner expressed that the state is building industries for the purposes of participation in agro food processing, automotive development, economic free zones where companies from Indonesia can benefit from making pioneer incentives in terms of taxing the availability of lands, approvals for establishment of industries which some may be solely owned by Indonesians or joint venture with local partners.”

According to him, the participation of Indonesia in our industrial development would  be a significant development as we are very viable in ICT development. We have a Centre called the Solution Innovation District which is entirely dedicated to ICT development and in the next few weeks, we will be launching a program designed to train 1 million digital citizens of the state.

Mr. Udechukwu noted that Anambra has a population of about 8.5 million people and will like to train a million to be literate in ICT and industrial processing so that they will be able to work remotely to serve Indonesian companies as well as come over to Indonesia with their ICT skills  if the need arises.

“Nigeria is also African’s fastest ICT economy but the size of the market and the volume of trade in servicing is not as high as that of Indonesians, we are just about to take off because the size of the market in Nigeria is just under five billion.

The Commissioner highlighted that Indonesia is a market leader in tourism, hospitality, hotel development and in the service sector and for us in Nigeria and Anambra in particular it is a very high growth sector.

“We have the population of 8.5 million and we have a national population of over 260 million and with the Africa free trade areas, we have a population of 1.2 billion as well as a market size of over 7 trillion dollars.

“I know that this is a market that Indonesia will be happy to be in. With the Africa free trade growing, companies from Indonesia that are investing in Anambra can serve the entire 1.2 billion people in Africa and get the share of 7 trillion dollar economy.The is the new future that we are opening up to our partners who chose to do business with us.

“We have just concluded a master plan for an industrial city on a 4000 hectare plots of land and in that portion, we are dedicating about 400 hectares to automotive and pharmaceutical product development. We know that Indonesia is also very viable in pharmaceutical production so we welcome your company into the state to participate in the development of Africa’s new 65 nation market located in the state.

The Commissioner emphasized that the state have a population that is highly literate at about 97 percent, adding that the state recently launched a free education program which implied that literacy rate will be approaching 100 percent in the next five years.

According to him, the state is also interested to see that there is a deepening of bilateral relationship in aviation thus having Indonesian airlines flying into Nigeria on a direct flight basis where possible or one stop over in whatever location they prefer.

Mr. Udechukwu added that the state also wants to grow significantly in area of aqua culture, saying that between 2018, Indonesia had an outstanding breakthrough in sea food production to about using 99,000Km of coastline and they were able to excel in sector alone to about 9.3 million tones of production.

Nevertheless, Nigeria does not have the same length of coastline but we have about 400km of miles for fish and aqua culture development as well as about 450km of coastline.

“In this specific areas, we will like to see a growing partnership, a partnership that works and I consider that the opportunity to speak through this forum is a first significant step in deepening and establishing business relationship.”

Present during the live conference meeting is the SSA on Industry, Mr Eloka Mmaduekwe.

*Amaka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA STATE ADVOCATES GLOBAL COLLABORATION AGAINST CYBER THREATS

By Angela Nwanodu :

In the aftermath of the USTDA Reverse Trade Mission on Cybersecurity, the imperative for international collaboration to combat the escalating menace of cyber threats has become ever more apparent. 

Among the Nigerian Delegation to the mission held from February 4 to 15, 2024, Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, MD/CEO, Anambra State ICT Agency, played a pivotal role alongside counterparts from Ghana and industry leaders in the United States. Together, they shared insights, shedding light on the global implications of cyber threats and the necessity for collaborative efforts.

Highlighting the interconnected nature of cyber threats transcending geographical boundaries, Mr. Agbata underscored the significance of local cyber resilience. “Cybersecurity is an escalating issue that demands proactive measures through robust policies and infrastructure,” he emphasized.

In a groundbreaking move to secure its digital landscape, the Anambra State Government, led by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, has taken substantial steps in advancing cybersecurity within the state, which underscored the administration’s deep understanding of cybersecurity’s pivotal role in modern governance.

Gov. Soludo’s administration stood out as the first in the state’s history to prioritize cybersecurity to this extent. This marked a critical shift toward safeguarding the state’s digital infrastructure and assets, demonstrating a commitment to security and sustainability.

The administration’s dedication is evidenced by the developing of a comprehensive Cybersecurity Strategy, Information security strategies, and frameworks. These initiatives aimed not only to protect the state’s digital environment but also to create a resilient framework against evolving cyber threats. This holistic approach ensured that Anambra’s digital transformation journey remained secure and sustainable.

In an interview, Mr. Nonso Okoye, Senior Special Assistant to Mr. Governor on Cybersecurity, emphasized that cybersecurity is everyone’s business. Recognizing the borderless nature of cyber threats, he stressed the need for a unified global effort to safeguard digital infrastructures.

A notable aspect of Anambra State’s cybersecurity strategy is its emphasis on developing indigenous technological solutions. This focus enhanced security and fostered innovation, economic development, and local expertise. Plans for establishing an incident reporting portal and drafting business and government continuity plans, further underline the administration’s commitment to a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

Mr. Okoye also stressed the importance of community-level cyber resilience, recognizing the localized impact of cybersecurity challenges. “The agency remained committed to staying at the forefront of cybersecurity developments, implementing proactive measures, and advocating for a collaborative approach to mitigate cyber risks”, he concluded.

Gov. Soludo’s administration’s efforts in fortifying the state’s cybersecurity showcased a commendable blend of vision, innovation, and strategic planning. As Anambra advances toward a fully digitized governance model, these cybersecurity measures ensured that the state is not only prepared to defend against digital threats but also positioned as a leader in digital security and governance.

The Anambra State ICT Agency invites stakeholders, industry partners, and the community to join hands in building a resilient digital future. By sharing experiences, and best practices, and fostering collaboration, we can collectively enhance our cyber defenses.

*Angela is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

MINISTRY OF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT COLLABORATES ANSIPPA  TO OPEN MASSIVE JOB SPACES FOR ANAMBRA YOUTHS

By Ifeoma Aniagbado  :

The Anambra State Ministry of Youth Development and the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), have agreed to collaborate in exploring the advantage of the recent inflow of investments into the state to open up massive job spaces for the youths of Anambra State.

This agreement, which was in line with the “One Government – One Agenda” philosophy of the present administration of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, was reached during the visit of the Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Agha Mba, to the Managing Director ANSIPPA, Mark Okoye.

The Commissioner for Youth Development, who was accompanied by some members of the management team and technical committee of the ministry, said that the key objective of the visit was to present the programmes of the Ministry for possible areas of partnership with the private sector, which ANSIPPA could assist in facilitating.

While commending ANSIPPA for huge successes already recorded in attracting notable investors to Anambra State in line with the vision of Mr. Governor, the commissioner called for synergy between the ministry and the Agency as the ministry has a database of over 200,000 Anambra youths seeking for job opportunities. 

He said that the quickest way to achieve Mr. Governor’s goal of “Jobs, Jobs and Quality Jobs” is through the establishment of linkages between the young job seekers in the state and companies, especially the ones that are investing newly in the state.

Among the programmes of the ministry presented to ANSIPPA were the 1 Youth 2 Skills Solution, which is targeted at raising smart entrepreneurs as well as the Job-kikstart Solution Initiative, which the commissioner described as a means of bridging the gap between job seekers and employers of labour, in addition to making our graduates employable through necessary orientation and internship.

He commended the level of competence and commitment of the Managing Director of ANSIPPA,  thanking him for his support to the programmes of Youths.

Responding, the Managing Director ANSIPPA, Dr. Okoye, commended the governor and commissioner for the new youth development system, which is a complete deviation from normal government empowerment programmes. 

He described 1 Youth 2 Skills programme and the empowerment of 5000 youths to the tune of N2b as unprecedented in the history of the state, saying that the agency is highly aware of the local content policy of the present administration, hence will work with the Ministry of Youth Development to ensure that the youths of Anambra State were provided with adequate and timely information as well as support during recruitments by companies that are being attracted to the state. 

Okoye called on the need for skill acquisition in the tourism sector, especially now that the government is investing a lot in the Leisure Park and Five Star Hotel as well as other areas of tourism and hospitality.

The Meeting was attended by the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Mrs. Chito Osili; Special Assistant to Governor on Youth Development, Engr. Emeka Tony Omatah; ED – ANSIPPA Ejike Osisioma; Chief of Staff to MD ANSIPPA Chinedu Onyike; Congo Ajekwu, HOD Public Private Partnership (PPP) ANSIPPA; Executive Assistant to Governor on Youth Development, Mr. Chibuzor Udeh, and the Media Team of the Ministry of Youth Development.

*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA’S DIGITAL TRIUMPH: A GLIMPSE INTO EXCELLENCE IN DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

By Angela Nwanodu  :

It is now widely known that Anambra State has set an impressive precedence, securing four prestigious awards at the 11th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) meeting held in Kano State, Nigeria. While the awards ceremony may be in the past, their significance endures.

What may elude many is that these accolades were the outcome of a substantial presentation by the Anambra State ICT Agency team, illuminating the technological advancements and initiatives under the visionary leadership of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo.

These awards not only shine a spotlight on Anambra’s unwavering commitment to tech-driven governance but also accentuate a series of groundbreaking accomplishments in the realm of Digital Infrastructure Development. Here are the key achievements that paved way for the Digital Infrastructure award:

Enhanced Deployment of Fiber Ducts Across the State: In collaboration with private entities, the ICT Agency has significantly improved the deployment of over 2, 000 kilometers of fiber ducts across the State. This infrastructure development project stands as a testament to the State’s dedication to robust connectivity. 

The ongoing efforts focused on expanding this network to fortify digital communication, support economic growth, and bridge technological gaps within Anambra State.

Provision of a Data Centre: The ICT Agency is currently in the process of establishing a state-of-the-art Data Centre, reinforcing the State’s commitment to technological infrastructure development. Ongoing efforts involve strategic planning to ensure the seamless design, development, completion, and deployment of this essential project. The Data Centre will serve as a cornerstone for secure data storage, processing, and management, significantly contributing to the state’s digital resilience and efficiency.

Public Wi-Fi Initiative: The state government has initiated the Pilot Phase of the Free Public Wi-Fi (Solution Wi-Fi) at 3 locations in the state namely: Aroma Junction, Book foundation and Unizik back gate. This marks a considerable stride, and efforts are underway to extend this Public Wi-Fi, also known as Solution Wi-Fi, to various public spaces across the State in line with the People’s Manifesto.

Full Implementation of Zero Right of Way (RoW) policy to attract tech investors for infrastructure development: Gov. Soludo’s audacious move to fortify infrastructure has led to the full implementation of the Zero Right of Way (RoW) policy in Anambra State. This initiative has motivated InfraCos to enhance tech infrastructure in the state, resulting in an improved quality of service, including the phased introduction of 5G services by Telcos. Anambra proudly stands as the first State in the Southeastern region of Nigeria to implement this policy.

As the state continues its journey toward digital resilience and efficiency, these achievements stand as a beacon, inspiring other regions and reinforcing Anambra’s status as a leader in the digital landscape.

*Angela is 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

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT GAINS NATIONWIDE APPLAUSE AT THE NCCIDE 11TH GENERAL MEETING  

By Angela Nwanodu  :

The Anambra State Government represented by a resourceful delegation from the State ICT Agency, led by the MD/CEO Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, is actively participating in the 11th General Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE).

The week-long event, which commenced on Jan. 22 to end on Jan. 26,, is being held at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano State, with the theme “Leveraging on Digital Technology and Innovation to Drive Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Development”.

The NCCIDE serves as the highest advisory body to the government on policies, programs, and strategies for national development in the realm of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the digital economy. 

The primary objective of the meeting is to review actions taken by council members during the 10th council meeting and strategize toward achieving the Federal Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy’s strategic agenda for 2023-2027.

An outstanding highlight of the meeting so far is the Peer Review session, whose objective is to foster healthy competition, showcase state activities, facilitate mutual learning, and enhance collaboration among states in the advancement of digital innovations, skills, and digital economy policies.

Anambra State actively engaged in the ICT Peer Review session on Jan. 24, during which the state’s presentation garnered enthusiastic applause. The panel of judges, comprising industry experts, commended Anambra State for its outstanding presentation and highlighted the commendable decision to waive Right of Way charges. 

This progressive move was acknowledged for its significant contribution to fostering the growth of digital infrastructure, drawing attention and applause from the panel.

Mr Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, was recognized for his forward-thinking approach in supporting initiatives that propelled the state’s advancement in Information and Communication Technology. 

This derives from the continuous efforts and achievements of the Anambra State ICT Agency, further emphasizing the transformative journey championed by Gov. Soludo.

The Anambra State delegation emphasized that the agency looks forward to more opportunities to contribute to the growth and development of Anambra State and the nation.

The official announcement of the ICT Peer Review session results is scheduled for today after a meeting between the Minister of Communications and council members, which Anambra State ICT Agency is optimistic that the outcome will reflect the state’s dedication and hard work in advancing ICT initiatives.

*Angela is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

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