State News

News from all over Anambra State

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT TAKES OVER CENTRAL PRIMARY SCHOOL AWA, ADVANCING FREE EDUCATION POLICY

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

Anambra State Government has officially taken over Central Primary School, Awa, marking another milestone in the Public Private Community Partnership (PPCP) Initiative. The move reinforces Governor Charles Soludo’s commitment to providing free and accessible education for every child in the state.

Built in 2024 and commissioned in January 2025 by the Awa community, the school was established to fill the gap left when the previous administration returned two primary schools in the area to mission authorities.

The government’s takeover now ensures the integration of the school into the state’s education system, allowing local children to benefit from the free education policy.

Speaking at the handover ceremony held at the school premises in Awa, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, who represented Governor Soludo, commended the Awa community for its foresight in establishing the school. She emphasized that the initiative aligns with the governor’s vision to provide quality education and development across the state, citing infrastructure projects such as the Amansea-Orumba road network as further evidence of this commitment to developing the state.

“The establishment of this school is in line with Mr. Governor’s resolve to place education at the doorstep of every child in Anambra. His midas touch is visible in every sector, and this school is yet another testament to his passion for development,” Prof.Chuma-Udeh stated.

She urged the community to take advantage of the government’s initiative to support communities without public schools by constructing at least a two coach perimeter fence which the state would then complete under the PPCP initiative.

In her remarks, the Chairman of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Dr. Vera Nwadinobi, reaffirmed Governor Soludo’s commitment to improving education in the state. She acknowledged that the return of some schools to mission authorities had reduced the number of public primary schools, leaving some communities without access to government-funded education. However, she assured that the administration is working to bridge this gap by ensuring every community has at least one public primary school.

The President-General of the Awa Development Union, Chief Raymond Ofor PhD., described the government’s takeover as a new beginning for the children of Awa. He noted that the move would provide a solid foundation for young learners and enable them to fully benefit from the free education policy.

The highlight of the event was the official handover of school ownership documents from the Awa Development Union to the Commissioner for Education, sealing the integration of Central Primary School, Awa, into the state’s public education system.

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

I LOVE GIVING OUT TO THE NEEDY– DEPUTY SPEAKER ASHA

By Grace Onwukwe :

The Deputy Speaker, Anambra House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Pius Chukwuma Okoye, has described charity as a noble act to serve God and humanity, adding that joining politics has offered him a broader platform to support and uplift not only his constituents but also the less privileged in the society.

“I give not because I am the richest but because I love giving. I joined politics not to enrich myself but to put smiles on the faces of people especially the under privileged,” he said.

Rt Hon. Okoye made this known recently while receiving a delegation from the Anambra State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists(NUJ), led by Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD, at his residence at Amawbia, Awka South LGA.

He noted that he established his charity foundation in 2014 as a businessman, driven by his vision to help the less privileged. He emphasized that, regardless of his earnings as a politician, he has consistently paid school fees for a large number of students, provided salaries to many individuals, secured schools, offered housing to numerous families, donated free vehicles, and provided financial support to help individuals achieve their aspirations.

According to him, the charitable work is a means of serving both God and humanity.

Earlier in his speech, Odogwu Emeka Odogwu PhD, Chairman NUJ, Anambra State Council, expressed gratitude to the Deputy Speaker for his contributions to the State House of Assembly and the welfare of the masses, assuring him of the union’s support in promoting his charitable activities so that others will emulate him and join in the efforts to help the needy.

In a vote of thanks, Comrade Nene Iloanya thanked the lawmaker for his warm reception of the Union and prayed for God’s blessings upon him, asking that his heart desires be fulfilled.

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

SWEET HOME AFRICA HUMANITARIAN FOUNDATION INVESTS LAW MEFOR AS SWEET HOME AMBASSADOR

The Sweet Home Africa Humanitarian Foundation, a body of social workers and publishers of Abuja Sweet Home Africa Investigative Magazine, has honored Chief Law Mefor, PhD, (Ichie Okaka Anueyiagu Abatete) the Anambra State Information Commissioner, as a Sweet Home Ambassador. He was decorated with the foundation’s official muffler in recognition of his contributions to the media and governance.

Present at the event were Prof. Edwin Chukwuma (Oyinatumba), PG Candidate for Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, and Caleb Festus Okeke-Enyobi (Nkan’uzu Anaedo), Director of Friend of Friends Schools and Nnewi Museum, who assisted Rev. Dr. Austin Ifeanyi Epunam (JP), President of Sweet Home Africa Foundation, in the decoration.

During the visit, Rev. Dr. Austin Ifeanyi Epunam also submitted a letter to the Anambra State Government regarding developments in Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, advocating for fair and transparent elections scheduled for 6th April 2025. He emphasized the people’s demand for good governance in Nnewi’s apex socio-cultural organization. His letter was well received and applauded by the government.

Additionally, the foundation recalled a past initiative where ₦2,000,000 was refunded out of the ₦10,000,000 allocated by former Governor Willie Obiano for the Emzor Malaria Project through the Ministry of Health, led by Prof. Joseph Akabuike.

GOVERNOR SOLUDO BAGS ANOTHER AWARD FOR EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE

By Christian ABURIME :

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has continued to shine on the national stage as he receives another prestigious award for his exceptional leadership and performance in governance.

This time, Daily Independent Newspaper has honoured him as the “Governor of the Year on Urban Renewal” in recognition of his remarkable efforts in transforming the infrastructure and aesthetics of Anambra State.

This latest recognition adds to the growing list of awards that Governor Soludo and Anambra State have been winning in various sectors. Recently, he was honoured by The Sun Newspapers as “Governor of the Year in Good Governance” and by Vanguard Newspaper as “Governor of the Year in Economic Transformation.”” He was also recognized by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) as the “Icon of Societal Transformation” for his visionary leadership and people-centered policies.

Governor Soludo’s leadership has brought about a massive transformation in Anambra State, especially in the areas of infrastructure, economic development, and human capital advancement. Under his administration, the state has witnessed unprecedented road construction and urban renewal projects, including the dualization of major roads in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, and other key cities. His government is also championing the modernization of markets and the upgrade of public facilities to attract investors and boost economic activities.

In the area of security, Soludo has strengthened local vigilante groups and collaborated with security agencies to tackle criminal activities, thereby restoring peace and safety in the state. His administration’s heavy investment in technology-driven security systems has also made Anambra one of the safest states in the South-East region.

On the economic front, Soludo has created an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Through his “Anambra Business City” initiative, he is attracting local and foreign investors while empowering small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs). The governor’s support for local industries, especially in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors, has led to job creation and increased revenue generation for the state.

In the education sector, Soludo has recruited 8,115 teachers and the rehabilitation of public schools to enhance learning standards. His administration’s focus on youth empowerment through vocational training and digital skills acquisition programmes has positioned Anambra as a hub for innovation and creativity.

On the awards, Soludo expressed gratitude to Ndi Anambra for their support and pledged to do even more to uplift the state. He reaffirmed his commitment to building a “liveable and prosperous homeland” where every citizen can thrive.

With these numerous recognitions, Soludo has firmly established himself as one of Nigeria’s most visionary and result-driven leaders, while Anambra State continues to gain national recognition for progress and development.

Independent Awards 2024 hold today, March 15, 2025, at Expo Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The red carpet is by 5pm prompt.

ASUBEB, PPSSC ORGANIZE 2024/2025 CAREER DAY PROGRAMME TO GUIDE ANAMBRA STUDENTS ON MAKING INFORMED CAREER CHOICES

By Rita Okonkwo :

The Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) in collaboration with Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSSC) has organised 2024/2025 Joint Career Flag-off for secondary schools in the State aimed to guide students in making informed career decisions to avoid future frustrations.

The event, held at Capital City Secondary School Awka, with the theme “Education: The Bedrock for Promoting Positive Values for Better Society”, emphasizes the connection between education, career paths and positive societal values.

Declaring the event open, the Chairman of PPSSC, Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu, said the Career Day programme is a platform for reinforcing the vital role of education in shaping future leaders, calling on educators to create an enabling environment that allows students to reach their full potentials and contribute to the nation’s development.

In her lecture, the Chairman of ASUBEB, Dr. Vera Nwadinobi said that the theme of the programme is in alignment with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of reviving Anambra core values.

She commended the Governor’s initiatives: “1 Youth, 2 Skills” programme; the employment of 8,115 teachers; the introduction of free education; and the Solution Innovation District; all geared toward human capital development.

Nwadinobi enjoined students to pursue careers driven by passion and innate potentials rather than peer influence; to uphold high moral standards, and to embrace vocational skills which are essential for building a productive society.

Addressing the students, the Principal of Capital City Secondary School, Awka Mrs. Amaka Anaekwe, explained that the Career Day is an opportunity for them to understand that no profession is superior to another; encouraging the students to follow their natural inclinations.

In appreciation on behalf of other students, Miss Olivia Ezeowulu, a student from Loretto Special Science School Adazi-Nnukwu, who aspires to study Medicine and Surgery, expressed gratitude to the career day organizers, acknowledging that the programme had given students a clearer understanding on how to choose careers aligned with their passions.

In attendance were secondary school students, teachers, principals, guidance counsellors and other education stakeholders across the state.

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

ANAMBRA 2025 : EX-OHANAEZE PRESIDENT SCORES SOLUDO 80%, ENDORSES HIS 2ND TENURE

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The immediate past President of the Igbo apex ruling body, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Anambra State, Chief Obi Chukwuemekalum Udodeme, Monday scored Governor Chukwuma Soludo 80 per cent performance and endorsed his second tenure bid.

He stressed the need for the electorate to vote for the rightful candidate come November 8 Gubernatorial Election in the state to avoid past mistakes where they sold their conscience just for money that worth nothing.

He reiterated, “You cannot change a winning team, the present governor is not doing bad at all, he is performing. If I am asked to score him, I would score him 80 per cent or above because no man is perfect. He has done so well on roads, though if I want to be sincere to myself I would tell you he has developed all sectors of the economy simultaneously”.

Chief Udodeme made the remark during the meeting of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) executive and stakeholders of Fegge Ward 1 at Agulu town hall, Fegge Onitsha, while the registration of new APGA members were also going on.

He further stressed that the governor has done well in all the ministries, and sectors, saying, “You don’t change such a man”, rather what we would do is to encourage him to do more and I sincerely believe if he comes back, he is going to do more, I’m sure of that”, he posited.

Chief Udodeme who is an APGA member from Fegge 1 told all aspirants, “Ambition is not a crime, you have the right to contest, you have right to your ambition, and as the former president of Ohaneze, I advise let them to play according to the rules, no thuggery, no rigging.

“You don’t have the right to stop others from contesting, all I know is that this government has done excellently well, I would vote him again and again and again,” he vowed.

While applauding his ward executive and the local government political appointees in their ward, Udodeme declared that in all the 17 wards of Onitsha South Local Government,”This is the very first time political appointees came together, mobilized funds and made announcement in the whole of the wards, calling people to come and register for APGA and a lot of people came out.

“I thank the Special Adviser to the council Mayor, Comrade Dunu Chiadikobi, they are working tirelessly to make sure APGA has a great registered number of members in Fegge ward 1. He provided something for people to eat and drink, that is politics for you, a game of number,” he further said.

He admonished that there should be sincerity of purpose especially from the leaders, saying that they should be honest, humble and ready to tell people the truth at all times and charged the leaders to leave the wards executives to take certain decisions, maintain those decisions.

In his words, the Mayor, Anambra State Association of Town Union (ASATU), Youth Wing, Onitsha South Council, comrade Dunu Chiadikobi said, “We mobilized the three council appointees in our ward, including our ward Councillor and we realized #200,000 to encourage and mobilize people to come out en masse and register for APGA.”

Dunu who was the host at the meeting said that the expectations of these meeting and the fund raised by them, the political appointees is for the new registered members’ passport capturing and the likes, and for them also to come out en- masse on the election day and cast their votes”.

He thanked Governor Soludo for all the developmental strides in the area, especially the general hospital, roads, pipe borne water and others. He applauded the Mayor of the area, Hon.Chief Emeka Orji (Dikediebube) for his tireless effort in restoring the lost glory of Onitsha South, saying that as the area has benefitted from the governor, so as Fegge Ward I has benefitted from the government of Dikediebube.

He emphasized that Onitsha South Local Government area has benefitted a lot from this government and noting that Fegge Ward 1 has two supervisors, former chairman of Onitsha South, former president Ohaneze Ndigbo and others.

The Ward Chairman, Hon Chibueze Obinwune tasked to ensure that the ward has the highest number of registered voters, saying that his 23 executives have charged themselves to provide 20 persons each, adding that if they could mobilize 20 persons each, they would be 400 plus.

According to him, Our challenges were passport but our ward political appointees have helped us, they paid for the passport capturing of these new registering members and I believe with this, we would achieve our aims.

The Ward Woman Leader, Mrs Amaka Duru Anyaoha sai that she is mobilizing women through door to door campaign, in churches, markets and even advised them to come with their grown up children to register for APGA.

The ward Youth Leader, Mr Ifeanyichukwu Okeke said that he works round the clock to ensure that youths are not left out in this APGA ongoing registration because as youth, “We have to elect our leader if not, others would do”.

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

ANAMBRA POLICE COMMISSIONER BOOSTS SCHOOL SECURITY WITH SAFE SCHOOL INITIATIVE

By Uche Kalu and Chizoba Njaka :

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu has ramped up efforts to ensure the safety and security of schools across the state. Through the Police Safe School Initiative, Orutugu aims to proactively safeguard schools, students, teachers, and staff.

According to a press statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga in Awka, the CP as part of this initiative has stepped up advocacy on security measures, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and educational institutions. He commended Anambra citizens and residents on the improvement of social and economic activities on Mondays, noting the positive impact on community safety.

He explained that the initiative focuses on preventing crimes, building partnerships, and providing support to schools to enhance their security measures, adding that its benefits will improve safety, reduce crime, increased confidence, and better learning environment.

The CP assured residents of the state’s safety, particularly on Mondays, when the illegal Sit-At-Home order has disrupted academic activities. To maintain law and order, the police and other security agencies have taken control of the streets to sustain safety in the state.

Accompanied by the Commissioner of Women Affairs, Hon. Ify Obinabo, Orutugu urged Ndi Anambra to go about their daily activities without fear of harassment or intimidation.

* Kalu and Njaka are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT CLARIFIES STANCE ON PUBLIC PREACHING

By Chizoba Njaka :

Governor Soludo’s administration has clarified that there is no restriction on evangelism or public preaching in Anambra State.

According to a press statement by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, Governor Soludo has never prohibited public preaching in Anambra State. Instead, had advised against noise pollution, which is prohibited under the extant Public Health Law, urging citizens to disregard such false claims.

Dr Mefor referenced the Public Health Law of 2006, which explicitly prohibits noise pollution and indiscriminate preaching in public spaces, such as markets, using loudspeakers. He advised that religious activities should be conducted in designated areas, such as churches or approved gathering spaces, where individuals can congregate and receive spiritual guidance without causing undue disturbance to others or disrupting their activities.

He stated that the current manner of public preaching is resulting in excessive noise levels, thereby constituting a form of noise pollution rather than evangelism emphasizing that noise pollution is a punishable offense under Sections 8(1, 4b) and 9(1, 2) of the Public Health Laws of Anambra State, 2006.

He noted that the law has been previously enforced, as evidenced by a 2019 ruling by a magistrate court in Nnewi, which held a church accountable for violating this regulation.

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

STRATEGIC FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP: PROTECTING ANAMBRA’S FUTURE FROM UNWISE FOREIGN BORROWING

As an experienced banker and one who is eminently equipped to understand very properly the intricacies of foreign denominated loans in highly volatile economies like Nigeria, that decision was the best for our State.

This facility has to do with the ‘NG-CARES’ PROGRAM. At the point of its implementation, for which Anambra State participated roughly a year, it was supposed to be a grant program. However, on assumption of office by the Solution Governor, he investigated and discovered that it’s actually a long term loan that must be repaid in the same foreign currency, irrespective of the rullng exchange rate at that particular time of it’s crystallisation!

No wonder as a very responsive cum financially sound Governor he has no choice that to save his State from the impending financial earthquake.

It’s important to note that loan facility is only good if it’s repayment structure cum other terms and conditions are properly evaluated and seen to be financially cum economically viable to the borrowers!

It’s important to note that most third world countries as well as most States in the country today are into financial quagmire because of such frivolous foreign burrowing.

It will be interesting to note that there is no free launch in such borrowing, even in our west African Freetown! Every borrowing has a cost, but unplanned foreign debt is an economic mortgage of the State future !

Anambra people should appreciate Mr. GOVERNOR for taking proactive steps to save our future generations from negatively mortgaging their future !

High Chief (Sir)Clem Chukwuka

Omenife Imeobi Ogidi

SOLUDO SAID LAW BANNED NOISE POLLUTION, NOT EVANGELISM

Press Release

The Anambra State Government wishes to address the misconstrued reports surrounding Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s recent encounter with an itinerant preacher at Onitsha Market. The Governor’s remarks were misinterpreted as a ban on evangelism, whereas his focus was on noise pollution, which has been banned by an extant law on public health.

To clarify, Governor Soludo drew attention to the Public Health Law 2006, which prohibits noise pollution and preaching in inappropriate places like markets using loudspeakers. The governor advised preachers to conduct their activities in churches or designated areas where people can gather and listen to the word without disrupting others’ activities.

The issue at hand is noise pollution, not evangelism. “Noise pollution” is punishable under *Sections 8(1,4b) and 9(1,2) of the Public Health Laws of Anambra State, 2006. As a matter of precedence, a magistrate court in Nnewi made this law actionable against a church in 2019 (link is attached herewith: https://search.app/xBiq2v7wDBUwvTmE8).

The public is therefore advised to disregard any claims suggesting Governor Soludo has banned evangelism or public preaching in Anambra State. Instead, we urge citizens to adhere to the Public Health Law and respect the rights of others.

Law Mefor, PhD

Commissioner for Information

Anambra State.