MDA News

Anambra State Government news from Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

DIGITAL LANDSCAPE HARMONIZATION: ANAMBRA’S ISPs, HEIS INVITED TO AFRINIC ONE-DAY TRAINING

By Angela Nwanodu :

Recently, the Anambra State ICT Agency, in a strategic collaboration with the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), successfully organized a one-day interactive session that brought together Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), to discuss the imperativeness for interconnectivity and to lay the foundation for establishing an Internet Exchange Point in the State.

The collaborative session saw vibrant discussions and resolutions aimed at creating a more livable state and a robust economy through increased internet access and connectivity.

In furtherance of the milestone recorded with the interactive session, and in recognition of the pivotal role of ISPs and HEIs in expediting actions toward this interconnectivity, a one-day AFRINIC virtual training program has been scheduled to take place on December 5 by 12.00pm.

The follow-up virtual training will not only provide participants with invaluable insights, technical expertise, and practical knowledge to optimize their network infrastructures but will further yield answers to key questions posed by ISPs and HEIs.

AFRINIC, the Regional Internet Registry for Africa, is renowned for its commitment to advancing internet development across the continent. The AFRINIC virtual training therefore, represents a significant stride toward realizing the goals outlined during the interactive session.

This initiative aligns perfectly with the vision of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, of building a technologically advanced state, while the collaborative efforts of the Anambra State ICT Agency and the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) underscores practical commitment to positioning Anambra as a digital hub, driving innovation, economic growth, and improved quality of life for its residents.

Participants can expect an interactive and immersive learning experience, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate the dynamic landscape of internet services in the State.

For all participation and registration inquiries, please contact:

Tochukwu: 07065453352

Harrison: 08142814404

#Solutionishere.

Angela N.Nwanodu

PRO, Anambra State ICT Agency

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mobilePhone

+234 803 719 5787

emailAddress

[email protected]

website

ict.anambrastate.gov.ng

address

Anambra State ICT Agency Building.

Government House, Agu-Awka

Awka South LGA

Anambra State, Nigeria

*Angela is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ATTENTION ANAMBRA STATE CIVIL SERVANTS!

Are you currently using the approved official email address, such as [email protected]?

If not, don’t miss out on the benefits!

But, why switch to the official email when you already have a generic one like Yahoo or Gmail?

Here are some compelling reasons:

In February 2022, the Federal Government approved the use of a National Policy on Nigerian Government 2nd Level Domains, to replace generic email addresses with the .ng domain, to enhance efficiency in public administration, civil service responsiveness and transparency in governance, as well as reduce dependence on foreign domain platforms, ensuring data protection, and safeguarding critical infrastructure.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the entire State Executive Council have already adopted this transition, and the Anambra State ICT Agency, led by Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, is actively collaborating with state MDAs to ensure full compliance and the discontinuation of generic emails for official correspondences.

Obtain your official email today by visiting the Anambra State ICT Agency at the Government House, Awka, or send an email to [email protected].

ANAMBRA BUDGET DEFENCE: ANAMBRA COMMISSIONER FOR WORKS OUTLINES PLANS FOR 2024

By Chizoba Okeke :

The Anambra Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ifeanyi Okoma says next year (2024) will be full time uninterrupted, speedy construction.

Engr. Okoma while speaking during the 2024 budget draft estimate defense, bilateral discussion said that the present administration led by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo had awarded close to 400km of road and have paid about 34 billion (42 percent).

The commissioner spoke on road interventions currently on-going, saying that Onitsha will be revived, maintaining that payments depends on progress of work and that next year, urban regeneration will be focused more.

“Our vision is focused on the mantra, which is building a liveable and prosperous homeland. So far, it’s a work in progress and we are prioritising because of funding.

On the Chinue Achebe Airport, the commissioner said works such as the lights are being fixed and plans are being made to add more air condition as well as fire fighting equipment.

“We are in talks with the aviation authorities because we have the catalog of the things we want to achieve.

“Were Anambra is going, the vision is so clear and we need to start laying the foundation,” Okoma said.

Speaking in an interview with state house officer after the defense, Engr. Okoma maintained that next year will be very active and that there will be a lot of road infrastructure, including a five star hotel in Awka.

“We have itimized and prioritized the works on the Anambra Airport. We are going to perfect the drainages and channelization.”

Office of the secretary to the Anambra State Government, headed by Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Anambra State Auditor General and Local Government Auditor General also appeared before the committees.

The Chairman House Committee on Finance and Appropration, Mr. Ejike Okechukwu and Mr. Emma Nwafor, House Committee Chairman on Works, urged the ministries who appeared before them to do their best in making sure that Gov. Soludo achieved his ambition in Anambra.

*Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY PARTNERS YOUTHS IN AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

By Ifeoma Aniagbado :

The Anambra State Ministry of Youth Development would partner with the Ministry of Agriculture in the second phase of the 1 Youth 2 Skills Program.

The commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba, visited the Ministry of Agriculture to discuss the modalities for incorporating Agricultural training into the 1Youth 2 Skills Program.

The Commissioner who was accompanied by some of his team said that the statistics of youth in the state is 65 percent, pointing out the need to involve them in agricultural development.

He emphasized the importance of involving the youths who are residing in rural areas in the state youth empowerment program, especially in agricultural fields.

The Commissioner further explained that partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture would boost Agricultural development and close the existing gaps in the youth empowerment program.

Responding, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Forster Ihejiofor welcomed the team and promised to partner with the Ministry of Youth Development in order to achieve state government agenda of food security for Ndi Anambra.

He pointed out that the ministry has several areas that will benefit the Youths who reside both in rural and urban areas, adding that his ministry would provide agricultural programs that are sustainable and profitable.

The commissioner who noted that agriculture is the bedrock of livelihood said that one can engage in amplified production within a small space as well as vertical production to produce large quantities of agricultural products.

*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

CLO Commiserates With Gov Soludo on His Father’s Demise

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The Civil Liberty Organization (CLO), Anambra State Branch has commiserated with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo over the death of his father, Pa Simeon Nwankwo Soludo on Nov. 6, 2023.

A condolence message issued to newsmen in Awka was endorsed by Mr. Vincent Ezekwueme, Chairman and Mr Chidi Mbah, Secretary respectively.

The organization conveyed their condolences and sympathized with the governor, the Soludo family, Isuofia Community and entire Aguata LG over the irreparable loss.

”We will continue to pray and be with the family at this painful and trying moment.The family and loved ones should take solace for the fact that he lived rewarding, remarkable and outstanding life worthy of commendation and emulation.

“He was a devoted, dedicated and God fearing Christian, caring father, astute patriotic community leader, peace maker and lover of peace.

“Pa Soludo was a strict disciplinarian, selfless, humanitarian and compassionate which he inculcated in his children which has manifested in the life of Gov.Soludo and his siblings.

“To the glory of God Pa Simeon Nwankwo Soludo came, saw and conquered as he lived fulfilled and worthwhile life.”

The Organization prayed for the eternal repose of his gentle and humble soul.

*Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

IXP in Anambra, Major Leap toward a More Connected, Digitized Society

By Angela Nwanodu :

A promising future lies ahead for the Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Anambra residents, and the broader Tech community in Anambra State.

Can you picture faster internet speeds and improved connectivity across Anambra? Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, a forward-thinking leader, is diligently working alongside a dedicated team to ensure that Technology is Everywhere, and Everything in Anambra bears the mark of technology.

All efforts is aimed at transforming Anambra into a smart, liveable, and prosperous homeland.

Recognizing the pivotal role of technology, particularly high-speed internet access and affordability, Gov. Soludo, took decisive actions early in his administration to accelerate the state’s digital evolution by expanding digital accessibility.

To underscore his unwavering commitment to this goal, he introduced innovative strategies to reverse the state’s tech infrastructure decline, with a central component being the elimination of charges for Right-of-Way (RoW) per linear meter.

The elimination of RoW charges is a significant milestone in Anambra’s journey toward digital inclusivity.

By removing this financial barrier, Gov. Soludo’s administration aimed to attract technology investments, foster innovation, and bridge the digital divide among the people of Anambra State.

However, to reinforce this vision, there’s the need to establish an Internet Exchange Point (IXP) in the state.

An IXP in a place like Anambra can have far-reaching implications for both the local digital ecosystem and the broader community.

These implications include faster internet speeds for end-users in the state, cost savings as ISPs can provide more affordable internet packages, opportunities for local businesses to expand their online presence, enhanced data security, and the development of innovative solutions, job prospects, and a thriving tech ecosystem, ultimately contributing to overall economic growth in the state.

As a result, the Anambra State ICT Agency is reaching out to all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operating in the state to unite and support the proposed Internet Exchange Point. This exchange point will act as a central hub, bringing together various network operators, higher educational institutions providing internet services, and ISPs.

The plan, according to MD/CEO of Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), Muhammed Rudman, is to explore the possibility of setting up an Internet Exchange Point in Anambra State.

He said; “We, at IXPN want to partner with the state government to see how we can bring about all the key networks operating within the state, the higher educational institutions, and the ISPs to engage with them toward inter-connectivity and promoting the ICT ecosystem within the state.

“Call it, a tripartite collaboration between IXPN, Anambra State Government, and the Service Providers toward establishing an internet exchange point that will provide interconnectivity and reduce the cost of internet access in Anambra State.”

This collaborative initiative is expected to create an environment conducive to cooperation, knowledge sharing, and efficient internet traffic exchange. The Anambra State ICT Agency is delighted to be driving this agenda on behalf of Mr Governor.

*Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

VIO Training Exercise in Anambra Focuses on Safety, Competence, Responsibility Too

By Chidinma Ajemba/Ngozika Omenankiti :

The Vehicle Inspection Service Department of the Ministry of Transport Anambra State has conducted a motor ordinance training exercise for the drivers of Transport Company Anambra State (TRACAS) at VIO Computerised Centre, Awka.

In his opening remarks, the Head of Accident Investigation Unit, Vehicle Inspection Service Department, Anambra State Ministry of Transport, Engr. Eze Daniel Onyeka explained that the essence of the exercise was to refresh and retrain drivers on the ethics of driving.

In his words, “Driving is serious business and not all drivers are competent. A competent driver is someone who possesses the knowledge, skills, and attitude to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly.

He noted that competent driving prioritizes safety and responsible behaviour on the road, saying that driving required patience, tolerance, concentration, a good attitude and cordial relationship traits.

He said that a significant cause of accidents on the road is caused by human factors, which includes speeding, distracted driving (such as texting or using a phone), impaired driving (due to alcohol or drugs), reckless behaviour, fatigue, and other forms of negligence.

“One mistake made by a driver can lead to irreversible consequences, drivers must understand the potential consequences of their actions on the road.” Eze concluded.

Reacting, the Head of Operations, Vehicle Inspection Service Department, Engr. Obidoa Chukwueloka urged drivers to change their perception that Vehicle Inspection Service Officers are only fault finders.

“If the police is your friend, then VIO is your brother and we genuinely have the interests of road users at heart.

He noted that VIO’s primary role is to help improve road safety by enforcing laws related to vehicle conditions, licensing, and other regulations.

He pointed out that most drivers do not have valid driving licenses and enjoined them to endeavour to go through the proper channels when obtaining a driver’s license.

Engr Obidoa said that every driver in Anambra is expected to have up-to-date driver’s licenses, insurance, vehicle licenses, and road-worthiness.

The TRACAS drivers were also taught about the Regulatory Trafic Signs which included; prohibitory signs, warning signs, mandatory signs and informative signs while their vehicles were subjected to Computerised Motor Check.

*Chidimma and Ngozika are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

18,000 Out of 25,000 Formerly Diesel Powered Street Lights Converted to Solar Lights–Commissioner

By Azuka Offor :

The Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Anambra State, Engr Julius Mmelikam Chukwuemeka has said that out of about 25,000 street lights being previously powered by diesel by the previous administration,18,000 have been converted to solar lights so far by the solution government.

Engr Chukwuemeka made this known while addressing the management of Chukwuemeka Odunmegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) during the inspection of installed solar street lights at the Igbariam Campus of the University.

Mr commissioner said that the conversion from diesel powered to solar powered was in line with Gov. Soludo’s campaign promise to achieve more with less.

He maintained that solar system is not only cost effective but also environment friendly to achieve the solution government’s vision of clean, green and sustainable Anambra State.

He added that aside converting to solar system, new ones are being installed across the state and tasked the university community to take ownership of the street lights as well as other government utilities to prevent vandalisation.

*Azuka Offor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

Anambra Education Ministry Unveils Groundbreaking ‘Solution Theatrical Course’ Initiative

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

The Anambra State Ministry of Education proudly inaugurated the Solution Theatrical Team, a pioneering effort aimed at fostering the artistic talents of Junior and Senior Secondary School students throughout the state.

During the inauguration ceremony held at the Ministry of Education Board Room, the Commissioner of Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, expressed appreciation for the approval of the Solution Theatrical course by Gov. Charles Soludo, emphasizing its potential to meaningfully engage Anambra youths and reduce restiveness.

She urged every child in Anambra to embrace this initiative, highlighting its role in reshaping consciousness and instilling positive social values, noting that every work of art carries a message and that theatre serves as a medium for learning from others experiences.

Mr. Leo Ewuziem, Chairman of the Nigerian Guild of Actors, Anambra State Chapter, hailed the Solution Theatrical Course as a first-of-its-kind in the nation and the Nollywood industry.

“By introducing it as an extracurricular activity in secondary schools, students will develop public speaking and interpersonal skills while nurturing their acting abilities.”

Nollywood actress and former Secretary, Nigeria Guild of Actors, Anambra State Chapter, Chinweoke Mbah, underlined the team’s commitment to educating students on societal issues, emphasizing discipline and security through the theatrical stage.

She also mentioned their efforts to train teachers in theatre arts, aligning with the vision of engaging and nurturing youth.

Mr. Jovita Arazu, Principal of Igwebuike Grammar School, Awka, and President of ANCOPPS, Anambra State, lauded Gov. Soludo’s approval of the theatrical course, foreseeing academic improvement and well-rounded development in students.

Master Prince Anagor, a student of Igwebuike Grammar School, Awka, expressed gratitude for the unprecedented opportunity, pledging to make the best of it by honing their acting skills and preparing for a brighter future in the industry.

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

UNIZIK Blockchain Lab, CBC Unveil Tech Conference to Empower Anambra Youth

By Angela Nwanodu :

As part of plans to get youths in Anambra State to fully explore the benefits that abound with the 21st Century’s emerging technologies, the UNIZIK Blockchain Lab and the Crypto Bootcamp Community (CBC), is organizing the UNIZIK Blockchain Conference.

The conference with the theme, “Opportunities in Blockchain and the Future of Web3”, is to be held on the 21st of October, 2023, at Chike Okoli Centre, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

The event, sponsored by Yellow Card and CBC, has Anambra State ICT Agency, SiBAN, and Digital Nigeria under the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy as its ecosystem partners

According to Obinna Iwuno, President, Stakeholders in Blockchain Association of Nigeria – SIBAN and Founder, Crypto Bootcamp Community, CBC, the event aimed at bringing emerging technologies to Anambra youths through Blockchain Technology and Web3.

These he noted, include a variety of technologies such as educational technology, information technology, nanotechnology, biotechnology, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

“We want to raise innovators and service providers in the tech sector through this event; people who will be self-employed, create jobs, and in turn, contribute to economic development.

“This is in line with the vision of the Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy to raise three Million Technical Talents.

“We are also delighted that this aligns with what the Governor of Anambra State is doing already through the Anambra State ICT Agency, to leverage aspects of technology to not just transform the state but also empower the youths.

“We are particular about the young people because of their imaginative and innovative capabilities and due to the fact that the future belongs to them. In a world where technology rules, our young people cannot afford to be left behind,” Iwuno posited.

Guest speakers at the conference comprise carefully selected industry professionals who have achieved remarkable successes in the blockchain industry, including Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata Jnr., CFA, the MD/CEO of the Anambra ICT Agency; Ugochukwu Aronu, First Principles Engineer and CEO Xend Finance & Wicrypt, Chris Ani, CEO Digital Abundance Ltd. Evans Okoli, Lead, Blockchain Sub-Community
Anambra Techies and Blockchain Dev. Core Contributor on Starknet Protocol; Talle Davidson, Founder, Cryptoelites and Co-Founder, Nurika and Charles Okafor-Mba, CTO at Convexity.

Others are Chike Okonkwo, Co-Founder and Business Development Director at GAMIC; Emeka Ezike, VP Media and Publicity, SIBAN and Community Manager, Emurgo Africa; Ifeanyichukwu John,
GDSC Lead, Nnamdi Azikiwe University; Ifeanyi Reuben, Founder GIBChain Academy; Olubunmi Fabanwo, Blockchain Evangelist; Ubah Nnamdi, CEO HouseAfrica; Prof Ngwuoke Kenneth, SA to NAU VC on ICT and Tracy Andrews, Promotions and Events Coordinator.

Other speakers are Christopher Eniaiyemo, Co-Founder Sahara ICP Hub; Osawaru David, Programs Lead at CBC; Umeh MaryJane Chinenye, Brand Strategist; Karla Obakpolor, Founder Crypto Smart; Sonia Christopher Blockchain and Crypto Tutor; Victor Dennis Idongesit, Community Manager; Kester Ejikeme Project Manager at CBC; Paolo Abamwa Marketing Manager, Nigeria at Yellow Card; Uzoma James regional Operations Manager West Africa, Yellow Card and Anthony Nduka, Lead, Blockchain UNN and Founder, Alphablocks Community.

The event was hosted by Queen Azubuike Helen, The Crypto Doyen, Founder, Doyen CV.

Among special offers during the event will be the N100,000 giveaway prize, Scholarships, Access to 10 high-demanding Web 3.0 Skills, Merches, and lots more.

To register for the event, please visit, https://bit.ly/UBLConference2023. (Ministry of Information)

The information officer reports from State ICT Agency, Awka