MDA News

Anambra State Government news from Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

ANAMBRA NUJ HOLDS PRESS WEEK, MAN OF YEAR 2024 AWARDS

By Bernadette Nwakile :

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council holds Press Week and Man of the Year 2024 Awards at Godwin Ezeemo International Press Center, on November 7.

In his speech, the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, expressed his profound gratitude to Anambra NUJ, noting that the activities of the Government are now being reported unlike before, pleading for continued support to the present administration.

Gov Soludo was represented at the event by Dr. Law Mefor, Anambra Commissioner for Information.

The Key Note Speaker, Dr. Monday Ashibogwu spoke extensively on the Theme: “The Media, And Trajectories for Anambra State’s Future In a Dwindling Economy”.

In her Speech, the Chairman of the Occasion, Prof. Chinyere Okunna said, “the Roles of the Mass Media are Surveillance and Agenda Setting which we are doing today, to tell the public and masses what watchdogs is all about”.

She praised the State NUJ Chairman, Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD, for his doggedness and diligence in moving the Council forward as expected of him by members.

Contributing, the Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe who represented the Wife of the Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, expressed her sincere gratitude to the Chairman of the NUJ for the wonderful cooperation between members and the government, pleading to sustain that fellowship.

Earlier in an address of welcome, the Chairman of Nigerian Labour Congress(NLC) Anambra State, Comrade Humphrey Emeka Nwafor welcomed the Distinguished Guests and thanked the Governor of Anambra, Prof. Soludo for his support, urging him to carry Journalists along as the Watchdogs of the Society.

Highlights of the events were the presentation of Awards to Dr. Nonye Soludo, Anambra State Governor’s Wife/Founder, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, as the Most Supportive Governor’s wife in Southeast and Voice of the Voiceless in Southeast, 2024.

The Traditional Ruler of Alor, HRM, Igwe MacAnthony Chinedu Elibe Okonkwo, bagged the NUJ Anambra 2024 Philanthropist of the Year for his proven track record of leadership, philanthropy and Community development.

Dr. Chinedu Anthony Umeadi, who was conferred 2024 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year was as a result of his support for education, improving the health of the people, youth empowerment and poverty alleviation through his Foundation.

Hon. Oliver N Okennah (Dikemba Ebenebe), bagged the 2024 NUJ Anambra Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year for using his innovative approaches to improving families in need, students for better tomorrow and agricultural productivity in rural areas.

The event was well attended by dignitaries including the 2023 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year, HRH, Igwe Pharm Alex Uzo Onyido(Ezechuamagha of Ogidi Kingdom).

In a vote of thanks, the Chairman, NUJ Anambra State, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD thanked all that graced the occasion, soliciting for financial support to enable the Council to complete the projects at hand even as he wished them journey mercies back to their different destinations.

*Bernadette is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

COMMISSIONER CHUKWUEMEKA, OTHERS BAG AWARDS ON GREEN ENERGY

By Azuka Offor :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr Julius Chukwuemeka, Prof Barth Nnaji and Mr Valentine Ozigbo were among those honoured by the Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka for contributions on Green Energy during the faculty’s 2024 International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Smart Agriculture for national development.

Speaking at the conference, Engr. Chukwuemeka noted that Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s love in creating green energy solution in the state which is eco friendly and cost effective, has been seen in the conversion of former diesel powered streetlights to solar system, installation of solar system at the state secretariat, state high courts, all the correctional centers in the state, 21 local government secretariat among others which now serve as alternative source of power supply, ensuring 24/7 power supply in the areas.

He said that all the water schemes (facilities) being built by the state government, have solar system as their primary source of power which enabled constant water supply to residents of the state.

Aside the partnership via MoU between the state government and Enugwu Electricity Distribution Company(EEDC) aimed at manufacturing of prepaid metres in the state, Mr commissioner noted that the state government is ever ready to partner with the Engineering faculty to enhance power generation and distribution to Ndi Anambra.

*Azuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

VISIONARY MILESTONE: ANAMBRA EYE CARE CENTER MARKS 18 MONTHS OF SUCCESS

By Ebele Egoh :

The Anambra State Eye Care Center, a pioneering initiative of the state government in partnership with the Nise community has recorded remarkable success in its 18-month existence.

As the first specialist eye care and referral center in the state, it has provided critical eye care services to over 2,500 patients and performed 30 life-changing surgeries.

According to Dr Ikenna Mbakigwe, Chief Opthamologist, “Our center offers comprehensive eye care services, diagnosing and treating various eye disorders, including allergic eye disorders, dry eye disease, refractive errors, hypertensive and diabetic eye disorders, glaucoma care, cataract eye surgeries, and ocular surface surgeries.

“The center boasts a team of two ophthalmologists, one chief optometrist, optometrist interns, nurses, and support staff. However, despite its achievements, the center faces significant challenges including; lack of solar energy for constant power supply and water supply hinders our operations, he noted.

He emphasised the importance of staff training particularly ophthalmic nurses for quality eye care services

‘ ‘We also require training for our ophthalmologists and optometrists in the latest eye care practices.

The center requires high-tech equipment to provide optimal specialist eye care.

He commended the state government’s initiative to reduce blindness and visual impairment in the state, appealing for support to equip the center with high-tech equipment and training for optimal care.

Dr Mbakigwe pledged the commitment of staff to providing top-notch eye care services, bridging the gap in eye health care in the state.

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

ASPE HONOURS ANAMBRA JOURNALIST, OTHERS AS FOUNDER QUEEN-TOVAH CARES FOUNDATION INT’L SPONSORED THE AWARDS

By Regina Igwebuike :

Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, Enugu State was on November 2, thrown agog as Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l, special invitees, friends and well-wishers stormed the arena to support three of their own who received meritorious awards from the Anambra State People in Enugu (ASPE).

The event, which took place during the ASPE 2024 Anambra Day cum Iwa Ji festival, was well attended by dignitaries including Ndi Igwe, HRM Iyom Theodora Oliobi, Nze na Ozo, Celebrities and Royal Golden Boys.

Princess Dr Jessie Ifeoma Udoka-Menuba, Founder/CEO Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l and Patroness of Anambra State People in Enugu, said that she sponsored the Awards in recognition of the trios doggedness, diligence, consistency, honesty and integrity in lifting the Foundation higher.

She said,”Virtues are positively rewarded and vices negatively rewarded. I urge all to good at all times because it is good to be good”.

According to her, I’m delighted seeing people happy and through giving, we build lives and legacies that endure.

Princess Udoka-Menuba, wife of Air Commodore Ify Udoka-Menuba (rtd) from Oguluwa family, Amawbia, Awka South LGA, is the only sister of Igwe Maximus Oliobi, Owelle Nimo Kingdom, Njikoka LGA, Anambra State.

Mrs Regina Igwebuike was given Journalism Personality Award of the Year for objective reportage, using her journalism profession to bring succour to the needy in the society.

Barr. Michael Ugochukwu Okoye, Coordinator of Queen-Tovah Cares Foundation Int’l in Nigeria was conferred with Great Humanity Award in recognition of his love and service to humanity.

Another Awardee, Mrs Bridget Chinwe Okonkwo received Community Development Award in recognition of her selfless sacrifices for the good and welfare of the society.

The award recipients in their respective speeches, thanked the Princess for finding them worthy of the awards, praying God to continue to bless, keep, protect her and family even as they prayed for more resources to enable her to continue the good work, touching lives in ways that matters.

In an interview, Nze Emma Nwokoye (Ezeudo), said, “The idea of organizing such event is very good and I can see that the Princess is part and parcel of the event. She sponsored the whole thing, showcasing Anambra people in another State. Anambra is number one by the Princess.

“I’m highly impressed personally in the sense that somebody is bringing out her resources to sponsor this kind of event. This event is going to be very big in future because I think it’s the first of its kind in Enugu now. As times go on, Princess will be known as one of the greatest philanthropist in Igbo land and Eastern Region. There are some Igwes that came through her, infact, Princess Udoka-Menuba is doing great, projecting Amawbia everywhere, very interesting.

“I’m wishing her strong, energetic long life and prosperity. I’m looking to seeing her physically one day to celebrate her, giving her back what she has been doing for us, like honoring her during Eziokpaligwe festival because she has done great, helping a lot of widows and indigents. It was when I started attending her event that I knew that something like that is happening in Amawbia.

Engr. Damian Igwebuike said that he was live at Michael Okpara Square and witnessed the wonderful occasion of Anambra Day/Iwa Ji 2024 celebrated by the Anambra people, commending them for organizing such occasion.

He extolled Princess Udoka-Menuba for sponsoring the Award conferred on his sister-in-law, Mrs Regina Igwebuike and other Awardees. “I praise the Princess for her philanthropy, especially in the areas of sponsoring scholarship awards to indigent people and her kind gestures in human capital development, and I pray God to continue blessing her and those that graced the event.

*Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

RIDERS’ SAFETY AWARENESS PROG: INFORMATION COMMISSIONER MEFOR STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF CAUTION

By Uche Kalu :

Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor has praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s outstanding achievements across all sectors in Anambra State, acknowledging his exceptional performance and urging Ndi Anambra to recognize his efforts. Dr. Mefor highlighted the governor’s commitment to security, particularly during the Yuletide season, ensuring the safety of lives and properties.

Dr. Mefor emphasized the importance of safety during a stakeholders meeting on Rider’s Safety, organized by the Ministry of Transport in Awka. He commended the Transport Commissioner for setting a positive example in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for a solution-driven government.

He stressed that safety should be the top priority, urging tricycle (Keke) and Okada riders to adopt defensive driving practices, exercise patience with other road users, and properly maintain their vehicles to avoid accidents.

Commissioner for Transport, Mrs. Patricia Igwebuike while welcoming stakeholders to the meeting, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to leverage technology in overcoming challenges faced by drivers, particularly tricycle and Okada riders, who play a vital role in reaching remote areas. Emphasizing safety, Mrs. Igwebuike urged these riders to prioritize their well-being and that of their passengers.

Mrs. Igwebuike shared insights from her visit to Orumbanasa in Anambra West LGA, where Keke and Okada are the primary modes of transportation, underscoring the significance of these riders in the transportation ecosystem. “By supporting their development and providing resources, the ministry aims to enhance the overall transportation experience,”she noted

Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Security, Mr. JohnChris Chigbo who announced that the state government has initiated measures to bolster security in the transport sector, stressed the crucial role of Rider’s Permits, encouraging all riders to obtain one as a vital security safeguard. “Possessing this permit, riders not only ensure their own safety but also contribute to the overall security of the transportation system,” Chigbo stated.

The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Anambra State Command, Joyce Alexander represented by Mr. Mogbo Oderah, emphasized the importance of utilizing side view mirrors to prevent avoidable road crashes. He attributed the causes of accidents to environmental and human. However, he stressed that human factors are the most prevalent causes of road accidents.

Ambassador Fidelis Nnadi, a renowned consultant on motor-related trade and services, expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of accidents involving keke and okada. He reiterated the crucial importance of safety and security, urging drivers to utilize their side mirrors effectively to prevent accidents and ensure their well-being.

Mr. Chris Okeke, Head of Operations Department, underlined the importance of the Rider’s Permit, a security document issued by the Ministry of Transport through the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) or Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO). This permit contains vital information about the owner, protecting them from security harassment.

To ensure safety, Okeke outlined key regulations for tricycle operations which included; two side view mirrors, front and rear headlamps, trafficators and brakelights, warning that no tricycle should install and use roof racks, extra lights, inappropriate horn, cross bars or any other artificial constructions and installations while in operation.

“Every driver must attain 18 years of age to be issued Rider’s Permit and the permit will no longer be issued to individuals beyond 70 years of age. Delivery riders are not meant to carry passengers except their box and must wear crash helmet, dress properly with their reflective jacket, company insignia as well as code.”

One of the participants, Mr. Emmanuel John Miracle expressed gratitude to the organizers and suggested that future gatherings include other security agencies to educate them on effective interactions with riders.

The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the banking sector, ARS, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), insurance companies, and other relevant organizations.

COMMUNICATION KEY TO SUCCESSFUL PROJECT EXECUTION, SAYS POWER COMMISSIONER

By Azuka Offor :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Mr Julius Chukwuemeka has emphasised the importance of communication in executing any governmental projects. Mr Chukwuemeka made this known when the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Crew paid him a courtesy visit in his office at Awka .

He expressed the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with ABS station, as part of Governor Soludo’s team, to keep Anambra residents informed about the governor’s accomplishments and future plans for their well-being.

The commissioner emphasized that Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) needs to enhance its outreach efforts to inform the public about Governor Soludo’s accomplishments. “Without effective communication, even the most impactful projects can be claimed by others as their own.”

Highlighting the governor’s achievements, Mr Chukwuemeka noted that the Ministry of Power and Water Resources has initiated the installation of solar-powered streetlights across the state, stressing
that the cost of operating the street lights using diesel, is much more than enough to construct few kilometers of roads. This helps in cutting cost of governance.

The commissioner emphasized that to achieve Governor Soludo’s vision of transforming Anambra into a livable and prosperous megacity, the ministry is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating global warming’s effects through the installation of solar power systems in all water projects across the state, making renewable energy the primary power source.

According to him, the ministry follows the ISE principle for executing government developmental projects. ISE stands for Impact, Sustainability, and Eco-friendliness, ensuring that projects benefit the people, promote sustainability, and minimize environmental harm.

He expressed his satisfaction that Anambra State is now leading in solar street lights as individuals, markets and other states are emulating the state.

On his part, the Managing Director of A.B.S, Mr Chris Molokwu thanked the Solution Governor for his numerous achievements in ABS especially the water supply project through the ministry. He commended the commissioner and permanent secretary for their efforts in transforming the ministry through solar energy.

He expressed the station’s readiness to partner with the ministry to keep residents informed about the state government’s accomplishments through their platforms.

Mr. Molokwu seized the opportunity to outline the organization’s needs, which include installing solar systems at the MD’s office and other ABS offices as well as upgrading and rehabilitating the power system at their Enugwu Ukwu transmission station and a generator set for backup power supply.

Those present at the visit included the Permanent Secretary, Sir Victor Ezekwo, the Director of News, Mrs Judy Jeff Nwabueze, Director of Commercial Services, Mrs Uju Ifediba, the News Editors, Mr Abuchi Nwozo and Mrs Ngozi Obileri.

Offor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

DR. MEFOR DECRIES JOURNALISTS’ WELFARE, PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR 2025 ANAMBRA NUJ ELECTION

By Rose Oranye :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has advised the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to work towards prioritising the welfare of members.

Addressing members of the NUJ, Anambra State Credentials Committee, who visited him at his office in Awka, Mefor decried the plight of journalists in Nigeria, pointing out that they are not only underappreciated but are sometimes maligned by those in other professions, particularly politicians who obstruct their jobs and put them in harm’s way.

“Every news media platform should work out some life assurance for journalists. I would want the NUJ to think in terms of basic welfare packages for members, particularly their family members when they go prematurely in the line of duty.

“As for your program, you need to seek more support outside because you have been working for society. The job is a thankless job. Journalists are underappreciated and maligned by others who obstruct their jobs and put them in harm’s way. The job is very risky. Society should appreciate your work by supporting your programs. I noticed it’s only the press that is called out and given the responsibility to hold the government accountable in the Nigerian Constitution. This is a tool media practitioners have to leverage to make the profession much more potent and relevant,” he said.

The commissioner further assured that he will study their requests regarding the forthcoming NUJ Anambra Election and make a case to the appropriate quarters as the ministry can’t do much.

Earlier, the chairman of the Credentials Committee, Dr. Stanley Ikem Onunkwo, informed the Commissioner of the NUJ Anambra Election coming up in January 2025 and asked for the government’s assistance to ensure a successful election.

In a vote of thanks, a member of the group, Comrade Ebele Ézè, lauded Dr. Mefor’s numerous contributions in the field of journalism and urged him to assist them in reaching out to people.

Other members of the committee present during the visit were Mr. Chris Obileri of Radio Nigeria Purity FM and the Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Anambra State Chapter, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika.

ANAMBRA GOVT RECOGNIZES CREATIVE INDUSTRY’S POTENTIALS, SAYS CULTURE COMMISSIONER

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

The Anambra Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, says the Solution government acknowledges the potential of the creative industry, which encompasses arts, tourism, entertainment, and culture, by repositioning, developing and transforming the state into a tourism destination hub through the ongoing construction of projects such as the Solution Fun City, Agulu Lake Resorts, others.

The Commissioner made these remarks during a courtesy visit from the executive of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Anambra State Chapter, in his office at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat in Awka.

He emphasized that the creative industry is a leading source of global employment, highlighting that the filmmakers have a significant role to play in promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people and nation’s growth.

“The message we pass through films is very critical. We must always use film to market our state, promote our core values and cultures to the world. Again, this government recognizes your guild by appointing a known face to be part of the government,” he added.

He congratulated the new executive, encouraging them to use their films to highlight the developmental progress occurring in various sectors of the state.

The State Chairman of AGN, Anambra Chapter, Mrs. Anyaegbunam Chinyelu expressed gratitude to the Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo for the massive development going on in the state and to the Commissioner for the warm reception accorded to them.

She expressed that their visit was to felicitate and present the new executive of the AGN to him as well as declare their interest in promoting the Ministry’s projects when beckoned.

She said, “We need government recognition and support in accommodation and logistics just like our counterparts in other states enjoy from their government, to enable us to function effectively and have a strong filmmaking hub”.

*Ifeyinwa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

DR. MEFOR VISITS ANAMBRA POLICE COMMISSIONER —CALLS FOR ADEQUATE TRAINING AND PROFILING OF VIGILANTE OPERATIVES

By Rose Oranye :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, on Monday, October 28, 2024, paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, to familiarise and share ideas on better ways to improve on the current security situation in the state.

Addressing the Police Commissioner at his office in Amawbia, Mefor opined that profiling and adequate training of vigilante operatives by the police will not only enable prompt and proper flow of information but will help build their general orientation to effectively discharge their duties.

“I felt the need to see you. I speak for the government, and that means I have to comment on security issues whenever the need arises. We really need to be in touch so that we will be on the same page in matters of security.

“I want to commend the police for their efforts in combating crime. I am also worried about the issue of profiling of vigilante operatives in the state. Security challenges in Anambra State are becoming more and more asymmetric, meaning that a lot of the enemies are embedded. We need to know who the vigilante security operatives are. They need to be trained psychologically apart from weapon handling and otherwise.

“Undergoing training by the police will help build their capacity for the job. Most of them are barely trained in gun handling. If the vigilante security operatives are properly constituted, they will be an extension of the police and supply basic information that will help your work as expected in community policing. There’s a need to fully recover the state from criminals,” Mefor said.

Responding, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam expressed happiness over the Commissioner’s visit and expressed commitment to improving the security situation of the state and urged Ndị Anambra to always cooperate with the police to enable the Force to serve them better.

While appreciating the Information Commissioner’s suggestion about vigilante security operatives’ profiling, CP Itam assured that the police have plans to restructure operations regarding the vigilante operations and other levels of security operations in the state.

The Police Commissioner further disclosed his plans to commence a radio program ‘Ask the Police,” with Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), where DPOs and other senior police officers will interact with the people in the weekly radio programme.

* Oranye is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.

UNLOCKING IDEAS: SID KICKS OFF ANAMBRA MAIDEN INNOVATION WEEK

By Henrietta Madichie/Uche Igboeli/ Azuka Nnabuife :

In alignment with Governor Charles Soludo’s vision to transform Anambra State into a digital and creative capital, the Solution Innovation District (SID) has officially announced the inaugural Anambra Innovation Week 2024 (AIW2024).

This initiative is dedicated to fostering a robust ecosystem for digital talent, startups, and innovative businesses across the state.

Chinwe Okoli, the Special Adviser to the governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, shared details about the event during a press briefing in her Awka office.

She emphasized that the primary goal of AIW2024 is to nurture and support the startup ecosystem by incubating promising ventures, promoting research and commercialization and enabling businesses to leverage technology for scalable growth.

Okoli highlighted that Anambra Innovation Week is poised to become an annual flagship event, showcasing Nigeria and Africa’s rapidly growing and vibrant technology and innovation landscape.

“The event will convene innovators, policymakers, top technology CEOs, industry entrepreneurs, investors, digital experts, and academics from Africa and beyond.

“AIW2024 will feature a variety of activities, including exhibitions, showcases, and competitions, notably the “Battle 4 Solution.”

“This competition will reward the brightest startups in Nigeria with a total cash prize pool of 100 million naira for solutions addressing critical societal challenges across various sectors.

“Innovators from Anambra and across Nigeria are encouraged to apply and participate in the Battle 4 Solution, with applications now open at [www.innovationweek.anambrastate.gov.ng]

“This year’s theme is ‘Creating the Future of Africa Now”.”

The Anambra Innovation Week is scheduled to take place from November 25 to 29, 2024, at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Agu Awka, Anambra State.