State News

News from all over Anambra State

MBAUKWU: ANAMBRA DEPUTY GOVERNOR BURIES ELDER BROTHER

By Chisom Okpala :

The Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, the entire Ibezim family, friends and well wishers have paid their last respect to their late father, brother, uncle and friend, Sir Nnamdi Clifford Ibezim who died at the age of 65.

Sir Nnamdi Ibezim was a brother to the Anambra State Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim and the Archbishop Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim PhD.

In a sermon during the funeral service at St Lawrence Church Parish, Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area, the Bishop on the Lake, Rt. Rev. Chijioke Oti, reminded Christians that they are mortals and shall one day depart from the earth to a place of eternity.

He noted that there is time for everything on earth, a time to be born and a time to die, charging them to use their lives to make positive impact while on earth.

Rev. Oti, then, encouraged the family of the deceased to hold God firmly and to trust him at all times as he will not leave nor forsake them.

Speaking at the funeral service, the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, commiserated with the Ibezim family for their loss.

The governor commended the family for adhering to the state burial law, stressing that it is essential to give people a befitting living rather than celebrating and giving them a befitting burial.

On the recent development of Local Government autonomy, Gov. Soludo still maintained his stand in conducting a local government election in the state, as this was part of his inaugural speech and clearly captured in his campaign manifesto.

The Archbishop and Deputy Governor Ibezim thanked those that came to commiserate with them, saying that their consolation was that their late brother lived a good life and that his legacy would be uphold.

In attendance were members of the State Executive Council including the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Ugochukwu Obiefuna, Bishops from Anglican and Catholic churches, former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, and Traditional Rulers.

*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

DMGS BUILDING COLLAPSE: PANEL SWINGS INTO ACTION, CONSULTANTS TESTIFY

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Panel on the collapsed Centenary Building of the Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha has commenced hearing over the incident.

During the proceeding, four key persons involved in the construction of the building were called to testify before the Panel.

Consultant Structural Engineer, Engr Dr Chris Oyeka said that a detailed, difficult, technical assessment with a clear plan would be required to determine the cause of the collapse.

He described the incident as aberation, saying he was professionally inquisitive to know the actual cause of the collapse.

While testifying on the approval documents, Oyeka confirmed that he was a member of the DMGS Centenary team that submitted the approval application at the Anambra State Physical Planning Board (ANSPPB).

On the comment that the approval document was labelled “provisional approval”, the consultant stated, “that has been a longstanding and verifiable custom and practice of the planning approval bodies, and consequently invited the panel to contact the ANSPPB on the issue.

He explained issues raised by the panel on Expansion Joint and Base Size of the Columns.

Responding on questions regarding supervision of the construction, Onyeka confirmed that he usually visited the site twice a week and in the course, carried out regular inspections with Engr Nweke whose professional competence he said he respected.

The Contractor, Engr Chinedu Ibeabuchi, the Director of Optimum Works Ltd explained to the panel that he was both a registered engineer with COREN and a registered builder.

He also testified that he had worked professionally and effectively with the technical team and had always cross checked details with the supervising engineer, saying that he had always implemented with scrupulous diligence the engineering and architectural drawings.

Also speaking, former Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Onitsha Chapter, Engr Davidson Nweke provided detailed professional answers to all the technical questions put to him by the panel.

Nweke, a retired seasoned engineer who had worked for the State Government, however confirmed he had not yet renewed his COREN registration.

Project Architect, Arc Chidubem Olisa while explaining his drawings and on the issue of the placement of columns, said the architect positioned the columns and the structural engineer had the authority on the size of the columns.

Chairman of the panel, Engr Sir Victor Meju who is also Chairman, Anambra State Chapter of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), while adjourning the proceeding for the day, thanked all for coming and told the technical team that they would be re-invited if needed.

Ugokwe is of the State Ministry of Information

ANAMBRA PHILANTHROPIST PICKS AFRICA’S ILLUSTRIOUS AWARD —- SENEGAL’S PRESIDENT, GOV OTTI ALSO

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

A Philontropist, Dr Paul Chukwuma has picked the prestigious African Illustrious Award 2024, alongside the President of Senegal, Bassirou Doamaye Faye and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State

The honour was for their respective numerous community development efforts in their chosen areas.

This rare gesture was bestowed on only few very distinguished community development driven African leaders by the African Media Group.

It was particularly for Dr Chukwuma’s profound impact on citizens of his Umueri community in Anambra East Council of Anambra State, and environs

In his citation, Dr Chukwuma received a thunderous standing ovation for his transformative community development initiatives, especially the construction of access roads and support for the underprivileged.

It was disclosed that he had undertaken the cost of Senior

School Certificate Examination(SSCE) and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination(UTME) fees for One thousand(1,000) and Five hundred(500) students respectively, in Anambra State.

This gesture according to records from the state has been on for years through his Sir Paul Chukwuma Foundation. It was revealed also, has continued showcasing his steadfast commitment to education, youth and human resource development.

The African Illustrious Award aims to honor outstanding Africans who have made substantial contributions to the development of African societies.

Chukwuma who was represented at the award ceremony by Chief Hillary Udanoh dedicated the honour to citizens of Anambra State.

He admitted that Dr Chukwuma’s efforts to enhance lives and address economic disparities through impactful philanthropy, was already being recognized and appreciated by those that matters in the world.

That he has consistently reaffirmed his dedication to improving access to quality education and living standards of the people through strategic investments.

Udanoh who received the award on his behalf commended the African Media Group, other recipients, friends and well wishers who thronged the main hall of the Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island Lagos for the event for their love and support.

GOVERNOR SOLUDO INAUGURATES MEMBERS OF GOVERNING COUNCIL CHUKWUEMEKA ODUMEGWU OJUKWU UNIVERSITY

By Okoli Sunday :

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has inaugurated the governing council for Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, with the following members:

Prof. Chidi Odinkalu as Pro-Chancellor/Chairman, AIG Chris Ezike (rtd), Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu,

HRH Igwe Chris Chidume Oranu and Chief Christopher Ndubuisi

Also inaugurated were the members of the Senate Representative to the Council

Performing the ceremony at the Council Hall, Government House, Awka, Governor Chukwuma Soludo expressed his gratitude to the council members for accepting to serve the state, describing it as an honour. He charged them to make a meaningful impact by transforming the university into a world-class institution renowned for excellence in character and learning. The Governor also outlined the council’s terms of reference, emphasizing their critical role in shaping the university’s future.

In his acceptance speech on behalf of others, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu (Pro-Chancellor/Chairman) thanked Mr. Governor for the opportunity to serve Ndi Anambra, pledging to do their best to deliver on their new assignment.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Commissioners among others witnessed the ceremony.

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

ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY PASSES ENVIRONMENTAL BILL

By Chizoba Okeke, Anastasia Agunwa, Gloria Abugu :

The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed the Environmental Management, Protection, and Administration Bill, 2024.

This follows Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s assent to 11 bills passed by the Assembly earlier today.

The bill, passed during today’s plenary session, seeks to provide a legal framework for the management, protection, and sustainability of the environment in Anambra State.

The bill successfully passed its third reading after deliberations and consideration at the Committee of the Whole. The Majority Leader, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, moved a motion for the third reading and passage, which was seconded by the member representing Nnewi North Constituency, Honourable Augustine Ike.

The Speaker, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, read the bill for the third time and announced its passage after it garnered wide support from the lawmakers.

He appreciated the legislators for their efforts throughout the stages of the bill, stating that it truly reflects their commitment towards making Anambra a better place.

ANAMBRA STATE LAUNCHES AMBITIOUS TREE PLANTING AND URBAN FORESTATION INITIATIVE

By Lilian Akpunonu :

The Anambra State Ministry of Environment has launched a massive tree planting and urban forestation initiative on June 10 at the Orpet Filling Station (Ez Electronics and Furniture) Agu Awka, aimed at planting millions of trees across the state, revive eroded lands, and beautify the environment.

The wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has emphasized the importance of trees in the ecosystem, encouraging residents to support the state’s tree planting and urban forestation initiative.

She suggested a hotline for reporting tree cutting, highlighting the need for collective action in protecting the environment.

Speaking at the launch, the Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Felix Odimegwu, emphasized the importance of trees in maintaining ecological balance, producing oxygen, and supporting wildlife.

He noted that trees play a crucial role in climate regulation, soil erosion control, and noise pollution reduction.

According to him, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification reports that up to 40% of the planet’s land is degraded, affecting half of the world’s population.

He noted that since the inception of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo’s Administation, Anambra State has launched several green initiatives, including the “One House, Two Trees” campaign, 35% green spacing initiative, and cut-one-plant-three initiative.

The commissioner said that the state government distributed and planted over one million hybrid Malaysian coconut trees and oil palms seedlings annually.

He went further to highlight the Key reforestation projects which include the Unizik Forest Reserve, Enugwu Ukwu erosion site, Ekwueme Square, and the Anambra State House of Assembly.

The launch of greening projects at Amazon Estates and other sites aimed to enhance ecological and climate resilience.

The vision is to see Anambra’s streets, roads, and highways adorned with trees, creating a green canopy.

He stressed that 200 trees will be planted today, including Strep trees, Tujar, Queen Palms, and Asoka trees.

The planting will start from Revenue House to Book Foundation and extend to Onitsha and other towns over time.

The Commissioner urged citizens to join the greening journey, saying, “Trees are our lifelines, and without them, our world would become barren and lifeless. Let us act now for a greener tomorrow”.

He also said that the gift trees is also given as birthday souvenirs to important personalities to encourage personal involvement in nurturing the environment.

The initiative is part of the state’s efforts to enhance ecological and climate resilience, and create a green canopy across Anambra State.

Prof. Kate Omenugha, Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), expressed support for the initiative and pledged to ensure its success.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mr Obodogha Tochukwu, highlighted today’s planting as a step toward a Greener future, a continuous effort that shapes a better tomorrow. Let’s join forces to make a lasting impact for our Environment.

Dr. John obodo, The founding Director, Sahelian Institute for Bamboo Research and Entrepreneurship Development (SIBRED) was represented by Dr. Achugbu Adaeze who commended the commissioner’s effort and pledged to support the initiatives.

In their Goodwill message, Prof Ngozi Ezenwa-Ohaeto commended Gov. Soludo’s initiatives of planting trees in Anambra State.

Prof Philip Phil Eze, The Managing Director and chief Executive officer of Anambra State Erosion, Watershed and Climate Change Agency(ASEWCA) commended the Governor’s initiatives and pledged support for the initiative.

House of Assembly member, Mr Eze Golden Ilo, commended the Government Environmental initiatives.

Architect Mike Okonkwo, Chairman, Anambra Urban Regeneration Council (AURC), thanked the governor for his vision that was implemented today and emphasize the importance of securing a greener future for tomorrow.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment, Tourism and Culture, Bobmanuel Udokwu said, “by planting today, we are investing in a greener environment tomorrow no matter how we see it, it is a continuous process. Let’s sustain this vision of our Governor’s initiatives and create a sustainable Environment for generations to come.

*Lilian is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT SOLICITS DEEPER STRATEGIC INVESTMENT COOPERATION WITH CHINA

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government and a Delegation from the Peoples Republic of China have opened discussions that will coordinate cooperation in strategic developmental areas of interests to advance relationship between them.

An eight man delegation from China had visited the state to explore investment opportunities and collaboration in key sectors under “Anambra-China Shenzhen Great Bay Cooperation”

Setting the tune for commencement of meeting at Golden Tulip Hotel, Agulu,the State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, recalled that Gov had sought the possibility of China opening up production plants in the state.

While affirming the state government’s commitment to fostering lasting intercourse with China, he acknowledged that the footprint of the Chinese could be felt in almost everything.

He pointed out that China had contributed greatly to the successes recorded in the priority areas including agriculture, hence the need for an economic marriage for expansion and to add more value.

The Commissioner commended the relationship between China and Anambra State, expressing optimism that it would grow even better in the coming years.

Contributing,the State Commissioner For Industry, Mr Christian Udechukwu,highlighted abundant multi sectoral opportunities existing in the for partnership to include Power generation, Airport concessioning,Orient petroleum and petro chemical plant as well as Food Security, poultry and egg project.

He also identified development of industrial parks and Silicon Valley Solution Innovation District as one of the existing areas of support and collaboration.

A Member of the delegation,Wang Bo,said the meeting was vital to build a stronger relationship with the state for a shared future especially in areas of real estate, construction, design, industrial and solar plants.

He added that they would work out synergy to advance relationship in ensuring projects design and feasibility reports, resource integration capability as well as project financing.

Some of the facilitators of the visit including Destiny Osili and Jude Okwudiba of the Earth wheel Works, said the State and China had witnessed substantial progress in mutually beneficial cooperation as China had become one of the State’s top trading partners.

They said the decision by the Chinese delegation to visit the state was a reflection of the importance which China attached to her relationship with the state.

Some of the Commissioners and dignitaries on the state delegation included,Bar Tony Ifeanya, Commissioner For Petroleum, Dom Onyenji, Commissioner For Culture and Entertainment, Special Adviser on Security, Rtd Air Vice Marshall Ben Chiobi, Managing Director, Housing Corporation, Chike Anyaonu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka among Others

DR. NONYE SOLUDO FLAGGED OFF 2024 HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS VACCINE

Ifeanyi C. Nwegbo/Nnedimma Okeke/Chukwudi Nwauba :

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo has called on women and girls, aged 9-14 years to be allowed to embark on the important initiative of free human papilloma virus vaccine which promises to safeguard their health from cervical cancer for their well being.

Dr. Soludo made the called during flagging off ceremony of human papilloma virus vaccine at Micheal Tansi Memorial Secondary School, Aguleri.

She said that the vaccine will tackle a significant health challenge which might cause the death of our women in the country.

She also said that the vaccine is free as well as conducting free cervical screening in the health facilities in Anambra State to provide early detection to our women in the state at large.

Dr. Soludo commended the efforts of Anambra State Government through which the Ministry of Health and Anambra State Primary Health Centres and partnership with WHO, UNICEF, others as supporting the state government efforts by taken health campaign to the next level.

While speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike said that Gov. Chukwuma Soludo has done so well in the health sector of Ndi Anambra, mostly for picking interest in planning for children from the time they are conceived till they are grown.

Dr Obidike said, “In the first phase of papilloma virus vaccine, Anambra East Local Government Area participated very low and that is why they chose Anambra East.

He thanked Gov. Soludo for renovating Umueri General Hospital and the construction of Enugwu Otu General Hospital, Aguleri for the people living around that community.

The Executive Secretary Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Pharm. Chisom Uchem said that the essence of introducing this HPV vaccine is for a medical breakthrough that provides effective protection against the most harmful strains of virus.

She said that the decision to administer the HPV vaccine to girls 9 to14 years is guided by sound scientific evidence. At this age, the vaccine is most effective, providing a strong shield against the virus before any potential exposure.

According to her, this proactive approach will ensure that our girls have a better chance at a healthy future, free from the spectre of cervical cancer.

The Zonal Coordinator of South East World Health Organisation, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboeko thanked Gov. Soludo and his team for allowing the introduction of HPV vaccines in Anambra State in order to avoid cervical cancer.

He explained that the ravages of cervical cancer is real in our country at large, and urged parents to allow their children and women to take the vaccine.

Dr. Igboeko encouraged Anambra State Government to always support health because good health will yield a lot of potential dividend and political Capital for the government.

The Vice Chancellor of Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Prof. Kate Omenugha and Provost College of Education Nsugbe, Dr. Justina Anyadiegwu congratulated Gov. Soludo for strategic changes he brought to Anambra State at large.

She thanked Mrs Soludo for her care toward women and children in the state and promised that they will partner and mobilize people to make sure that this HPV Vaccine get to the target audience.

The Chairman House Committee on Health, Mr. Tony Muobuike thanked Gov. Soludo for keeping to his promise of offering free HPV Vaccine to the children and women of Anambra State.

He promised that House of Assembly will do all in their reach to make sure that Soludo’s mission and vision to this will come to manifestation.

The event attracted lots of dignitaries including Ndi Igwe, former TC Chairman Anambra East, Dr. Anselm Onuorah , Female professors of Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam and staff of Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe.

*The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

PROF. OFOEGBU CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING IN ANAMBRA

By Adaobi Nsofor :

Citizens of Anambra State have been urged to desist from illegal mining that would endanger their lives and slow down the economic activities of the state.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State Solid Mineral Development Company Limited, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu stated this during an interview in his office at the Government House, Awka.

Prof. Ofoegbu noted that mining which is one of the oldest economic activities in the state is being tampered with on a daily basis, which is a serious issue that shouldn’t be neglected.

He maintained that illegal mining can lead to environmental degradation including deforestation, soil erosion and water pollution which will in turn affect the eco system and increase poverty level especially among peasant farmers who depend solely on environmental resources for a living.

Prof Ofoegbu further emphasised that Anambra State is strongly positioned to build a thriving, socially responsible mineral industry that drives broad-based economic growth.

He believes that Anambra’s Mineral sector if fully optimised, can contribute massively to the state’s GDP, enable widespread industrialization and provide employment opportunities for the youths in the state.

According to him, the Soludo-led administration is determined to establish workable synergies between miners and the host communities in order to curtail the activities of the illegal miners in the state.

Prof. Ofoegbu who recalled that Governor Soludo had earlier in the year banned sand excavation in Anambra State following the discovery that it is fuelling the gully erosion menace in most communities in the state, called on Ndi Anambra to participate actively and benefit from the state’s mining sector by developing relevant skills that will enable socio economic upliftment.

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

AWEF HONOURS GOV. SOLUDO FOR PROMOTING AKWETE FABRICS

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

African Weaving Festival (AWeF), has conferred an award of the “Pillar of Cultural Excellence in Promoting Akwete Heritage” to Governor Charles Soludo for his unwavering dedication to promoting the Akwete indigenous fabrics. The event took place at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Exhibition Pavilion, Abuja.

Receiving the award on behalf of the Governor, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji expressed that Governor Soludo always demonstrates his avowed commitment to promoting the Nigerian economy through the patronage of made-in-Nigeria products and other local production which can ultimately salvage the economy and make Nigerians richer and happier.

He added that the Solution Governor approved the distribution of over N 2 billion to over five thousand youths across the state, who were trained under the “One-Youth-Two Skills” programme and another approval has been made to train and empower another batch of thousands of youths which will commence soon.

“Mr. Governor has always shown immense capacity for effective delivery in every office he handled both within and outside the country.”

The commissioner, who also wore his akwete outfits to the occasion, flipped online pictures of Mr. Governor’s various akwete outfits to the admiration of the excited audience.

The Coordinator of AWeF, Mrs. Lizi Ben-Iheanacho expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for his inspiring vision and leadership in reviving the akwete cultural treasure and also fostering the indigenous fashion values.

“Sir, your singular act of championing the akwete fabrics at every high-profile event has significantly elevated its contemporary value and as well instilled an immense pride in our indigenous akwete master-weavers, hence, leading to unprecedented prominence, patronage and a renewed sense of cultural patriotism.

“Also, your commitment to sustaining our African cultural identity while weaving a prosperous future for Anambra resonates deeply with our vision,” she said.

She further reiterated that Anambra is a truly shining beacon of hope in this cultural renaissance, earning its rightful place as the “Light of the Nation” in heritage revival.