Commendations have trailed Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s move in transforming the Awka metropolis to Dubai of our time, describing the activities as worth doing.
This was made known when Anambra Times reporter went round Awka metropolis to monitor some project sites particularly the road from Unizik to Okpuno axis and the road leading to Umukwa Awka where people confirmed that Awka is beginning to take a new look and shape.
Among the categories of persons that spoke were drivers, traders and some working class citizens in the state who noted, “the work has started giving the state capital a different look unlike past years when everywhere are congested with lots of unwarranted building blocking road and at the same time causing more harm than good”.
They explained that even though it is painful to know that some structures were heavily affected, “it is still the best option for a better future”.
According to them, it is a good strategy to put and make things right. It will bring orderliness in the state capital. There will be functional motor parks, reduction of crime rate and road side trading which most often risk the lives of some persons. The best belt is to allow our amiable governor to do that which he knows best to do for better.
*Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
It was jubilation galore at Port Harcourt road and Niger street, Fegge, Onitsha South Local Government Area, Anambra State, on February 16, as Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, while inspecting the completed Port Harcourt road, had a sort of town hall meeting with Fegge Landlords and residents.
Addressing the residents, the governor expressed dissatisfaction with inter-state buses blocking drainages and mandated a five-meter clearance from the drainages.
He vowed to make Fegge “the best neighborhood anyone can live in” and announced that a new General Hospital would be built and completed before the end of the year.
In his bid to encourage green, clean and sustainable environment, he also announced N18 million for three cleanest and greenest streets, adding that the best street will smile home with N10million, second best N5million while the third will get N3million.
A partnership with landlords for property beautification was proposed, offering subsidized paint through “Made-in-Anambra” manufacturers.
The governor promised to provide transformers to be installed next week to address power supply issues caused by overloading and introduction of prepaid meters alongside the transformers.
“Solar power solutions will be implemented in the Anambra Fruit and Vegetable Market, Ogbaru to address electricity shortages,” Soludo further said.
The governor pledged to upgrade the Anambra Fruit and Vegetable Market, Ogbaru to make it one of the biggest in the state.
Earlier, the Transition Committee Chairman, Onitsha South, Mr. Emeka Joseph Orji, expressed gratitude for Gov. Soludo’s commitment to development, citing the completed construction of Port-Harcourt road and Niger Street.
Contributing, the Onitsha South Co-ordinator, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Mr Onyeke Franklin, thanked the governor for his excellent work in the state that include, employment of youths through 1 youth 2 skills initiative, road rehabilitation, sack of touts and fight against crime and criminality.
Earlier, the Onitsha South Chairman, All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Uche C. Umennakaenyi, said that the governor has made them proud by constructing the Port Harcourt road and other roads in Fegge, urging him not to relent in making the state a better place to live in.
He vowed that those who dump refuse into the drainages and block the road would not go unpunished, adding that the governor’s achievements would speak for him come 2025 Gubernatorial election.
Contributing, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Bridge Head market, Mr. Chinedu Ezekwike Akweke, said that the market benefited from the construction of the two major roads, (Port Harcourt road and Niger street) that led to the market.
He commended the contractor that constructed the Port Harcourt road for extending it to the market through Oduwanu street even as he commended the governor for the rapid infrastructural development of the State.
According to him, APGA-led government has been up and doing in the infrastructural development of the state, especially in the areas of roads rehabilitation, employment through 1 youth 2 skills initiative.
The Onitsha South ASATU Youth Mayor, Mr Dunu Chiadikobi commended Gov. Soludo for his marvelous work in Onitsha South and expressed their readiness to re-elect him come 2025.
Speaking, Chief Ndubuisi Umezuruike, Deputy Chairman, Onitsha South Landlords Association, expressed satisfaction with the construction of Port Harcourt road and others in Fegge, stressing that since 1970 till date, it was Soludo that tackled roads in Fegge and urged residents to vote him for second tenure to enable him to complete his projects in the state.
“We have not had it like this before, this Port Harcourt road is one of the major roads in Fegge, the governor’s name has been written in the Guiness book of records. I was here by 5.30 in the morning and anybody who put refuse into the drainages or damage the roads will not go unpunished.
“Government cannot do all things for us, the governor has done his part, it is left for us to do ours. We urge the governor to also work on Uga street for us as it is also one of the major roads,” he pleaded.
In his contribution, a philantropist and oil magnet, Chief Pius Udokwu, said that the governor has been doing well to better the welfare of the people and urged all to support him in his efforts to move the state forward.
“Our governor is doing very well, he gave us time in this town hall meeting with him. This Port Harcourt road formerly was not motorable. We are happy with the governor and will continue to support him in his efforts to better the lives of the people in the state,” he said.
Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion included, the Speaker, Anambra House of Assembly, Mr Somtochukwu Udeze; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu; Chief of Staff, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi, and Chief of Protocol.
Others were Chinedu Nwoye Glamour; Commissioner for Environment, Mr Felix Odimegwu; MD ASWAMA, Mike Ozoemena; MD Anambra Urban Regeneration Council, Arc. Mike Okonkwo; and Chairman Onitsha North Local Government Area Caretaker Committee , Mr Charles Ozoma.
*Juliana, Patricia are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
*SPECIAL FOCUS ON SOLUDO’S REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURAL REVOLUTION IN ANAMBRA STATE*
By Christian ABURIME :
In the pursuit of a prosperous homeland, the tenure of Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuna Charles Soludo, CFR, stands as a demonstration of unparalleled achievements within 22 months.
In the intricate terrains of governance, Soludo has carved a niche of progress and prosperity that resonates across the expanse of Anambra State.
The cornerstone of this administration’s success lies in its untiring commitment to key pillars of development: security, law and order, infrastructure and economic transformation, human capital development, governance reforms, and a sustainable environment.
The manner of progress that has unfolded is a tangible manifestation of a leadership dedicated to propelling the state towards unparalleled heights.
A pivotal chapter in this saga of transformation unfolds in the area of agriculture, where the Soludo administration has embarked on a visionary initiative. A staggering 1,100,000 hybrid coconut and palm seedlings have been distributed to over 100,000 households, igniting a beacon of hope in the pursuit of eradicating poverty, fostering neo agro-industrialization, and nurturing a green and environmentally conscious state.
This groundbreaking project, meticulously crafted to uplift households in the State, has bestowed upon them the invaluable gift of high-yield coconut and palm oil seedlings.
Each household, numbering over 100,000, has received approximately 10 seedlings free of charge, an investment in their future prosperity that will generate an annual income of between N1million to N2 million after fruition. This is one of the ways Governor Soludo is deliberately and intentionally turning the lives of poor masses around in Anambra State. A model that has attracted other state governments in the federation who are desirous of replicating it in their various States
In the span of a mere 3-5 years, the once-humble seedlings will metamorphose into bountiful trees, yielding not only a harvest of coconut and palm oil but also emancipating families from the shackles of hunger and poverty.
As these trees flourish, a ripple effect ensues, transforming rural households into bastions of newfound wealth.
The seeds of today are sowing the fields of tomorrow, cultivating a landscape where countless families ascend to the ranks of millionaires.
No doubt, Governor Soludo’s visionary approach to agriculture is not merely a cultivation of crops; it is a cultivation of prosperity, a renaissance that transcends the agrarian landscape and1 permeates the very fabric1 of1 society.
In this symphony of development orchestrated by Soludo, the agricultural initiative emerges as a crescendo, an anthem of hope, resilience, and prosperity echoing through the verdant fields of Anambra State.
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has extended his warmest felicitations to the Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, the Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, on the occasion of his 22nd Episcopal Anniversary celebration.
Governor Soludo while congratulating ArchBishop Okeke on this momentous occasion also highligted the ArchBishop’s dedication to the service of humanity and God. The Governor further asserted that these selfless dispositions have earned the ArchBishop profound respect and admiration from the people of his community and the State
Governor Soludo also applauded ArchBishop Okeke’s efforts in his support for the poor and downtrodden in the society which have been commendable and worthy of emulation
On behalf of the government and good people of Anambra State, Governor Soludo sends his heartfelt congratulations to ArchBishop Okeke on this milestone anniversary as he also prayed for God’s continuous guidance and protection over his life!
*SPECIAL FOCUS ON THE TRANSFORMATIVE REVOLUTION IN EDUCATION*
By Christian ABURIME :
Anambra State, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, is charting a bold course towards a livable and prosperous future. With a focus on key areas like security, infrastructure, and human capital development, the administration’s efforts are already bearing fruit, especially in the transformative realm of education.
Governor Soludo’s commitment to quality education is firm. Within 22 months, he has declared education truly free, eliminating hidden fees and levies from early childhood care all the way to junior secondary school.
Secondary education has become more accessible than ever, with senior secondary fees slashed by 98% to a mere N5,000.
This move has opened doors for countless students, paving the way for a brighter future. But the journey doesn’t end there. The unfolding education agenda promises a complete overhaul. Technology will be seamlessly integrated into the learning experience, making classrooms more engaging and interactive.
Dilapidated schools will be transformed into modern learning spaces conducive to fostering knowledge and creativity.
A renewed focus on professional development of teachers will restore pride and excellence to the teaching profession.
Outdated content will be replaced with contemporary topics, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. The goal is to produce graduates who are not just problem solvers, but innovative thinkers and global citizens.
To ensure this vision becomes a reality, a robust monitoring and evaluation system will be implemented. Performance data will be readily available, fostering healthy competition and improvement.
Parents and students will have a voice through toll-free hotlines to report concerns and contribute to positive change.
Through Public-Community-Private Partnership (PCPP), communities will be empowered to actively participate in school management through “Clubs of Patrons”, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.
Finally, recognizing the crucial role teachers play, the administration plans to introduce a competitive remuneration structure, making teaching a truly attractive and rewarding career choice.
Professor Soludo’s education revolution is not just about numbers and policies; it is about unlocking the potential of every child in Anambra State.
By investing in quality education, the administration is building a brighter future for the state, one young mind at a time.
After a long legal battle, the Anambra State Government and Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), have reached an out-of-court settlement over the dissolution of the Anambra State Water Corporation.
The settlement agreement was signed at the Conference Hall of the Anambra State Head of Service (HOS), by both parties.
The HOS, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, expressed her gratitude to Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for resolving the matter amicably and praised the Out-of-Court Committee and the AUPCTRE leaders for their cooperation and understanding.
The Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka, reiterated Gov. Soludo’s commitment to restoring water supply in Anambra State, saying that the settlement was a necessary step to address the challenges in the water sector.
He also said that the settlement saved the state ₦1.3 billion and offered a chance for the former staff of the Water Corporation to be reemployed after a screening process.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State Urban Water Asset Holdings Corporation, Mr. Ejiofor Ikeobi, reiterated the State Government’s commitment to get portable and clean water running in the state again as this groundbreaking occasion of settlement has paved way for the good work plan of Gov. Soludo to deliver his Campaign promises as stated in his manifesto.
He assured that the agreement would be honoured in all honesty.
The National President of AUPCTRE, Mr. Benjamin Anthony, who led the Union delegation, thanked Gov. Soludo, the government team and the Out-of-Court Committee for their sincerity and efforts in settling the matter.
He appealed to the affected workers to be patient with the government to fulfill its part of the agreement and hoped that the government would pay the workers the agreed amount.
The event was also attended by the Attorney General of the State, Prof. Sylvia Ifemeje, State Accountant General, Dr. Chukwudi Okoli, Anambra State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Humphrey Nwafor, Permanent Secretaries, Ministry of Power and Water Resources and Office of the Head of Service.
*Obinna is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*
*HEALTHCARE: SOLUDO’S LEGACY OF UNPARALLELED ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN LESS THAN TWO YEARS!*
By Christian ABURIME :
Embarking on the transformative journey towards a thriving and livable homeland, Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, has not only exceeded expectations but has etched a legacy of unparalleled accomplishments within the past 22 months.
This visionary administration, rooted in a steadfast commitment to holistic development, has strategically focused on key pillars: security, law and order, infrastructure, economic transformation, human capital development, governance reforms, and a sustainable environment.
A pivotal facet of this remarkable journey lies in the sphere of healthcare, where the Soludo administration has orchestrated a symphony of positive change. A resolute end has been brought to the era of hospitals bereft of doctors and medical professionals, with an audacious recruitment drive that ushered in approximately 1000 skilled medical personnel.
This formidable cadre of healthcare experts now oversees the operation of government healthcare facilities, bringing a breath of fresh air to the healthcare landscape. A beacon of hope for expecting mothers, the Solution government has graciously extended the gift of life without the burden of cost.
Free antenatal care and delivery services are now available to pregnant women at government hospitals and health centres across the state, fostering a culture of accessible and compassionate maternal care.
This altruistic initiative not only exemplifies a commitment to the well-being of mothers but also propels Anambra State to the forefront, securing its position as the second state with the lowest infant mortality rate, trailing only behind Lagos.
The administration’s steadfast commitment to healthcare excellence also manifests in the ongoing renovation and modernization endeavors at three General Hospitals in Umueri, Ekwulobia, and Enugu-Ukwu. State-of-the-art dental units have also been introduced, elevating the standard of healthcare facilities to meet the evolving needs of the populace.
Prioritizing women’s health, the Soludo administration has established 30 cervical cancer screening centers, sowing seeds of hope and early detection throughout Anambra’s communities.
The State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Systems (SEMAS) now stand as sentinels, ensuring rapid responses in times of medical emergencies, further fortifying the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
A watershed moment in pharmaceutical oversight, the administration inaugurated a cutting-edge Drugs Quality Control Lab at COOUTH, Amaku, assuring citizens of the safety and efficacy of medications.
Pioneering self-sufficiency, the establishment of a Medical Oxygen Production Plant and an Endoscopy unit at General Hospital, Onitsha, signals a strategic move towards bolstering critical healthcare capabilities.
The deployment of Hematology Analyzers to the laboratory departments of General Hospitals in Agulu and Nnobi underscores the administration’s commitment to advanced and accurate medical diagnostics. This technological leap forward ensures that healthcare practitioners can provide precise and timely interventions, enhancing the overall efficacy of medical services.
In essence, Governor Soludo’s tenure has not only ushered in an era of unprecedented achievements but has laid the foundation for a healthcare landscape that is not just reactive but proactive, compassionate, and equipped to meet the evolving needs of the citizens of Anambra State.
The journey to a prosperous homeland under the visionary and revolutionary leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo continues, guided by a vision that places the well-being of its people at the forefront of development.
*Anambra’s Ascension: Soludo Building Roads to last and Sparking Power to illuminate Anambra!*
By Christian ABURIME :
In the relentless pursuit of a thriving and prosperous homeland, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has etched a commendable legacy in just 18 months, marking a significant chapter in the state’s development journey.
At the helm of the administration’s agenda are key pillars – security, law and order, infrastructure and economic transformation, human capital development, governance reforms, and the creation of a sustainable environment. The tangible outcomes of this strategic focus are becoming increasingly apparent, underscoring a resolute commitment to propel Anambra State towards unprecedented growth and prosperity.
One of the cornerstones of this transformative journey lies in the realm of infrastructure, where the administration has made remarkable strides in road construction and electricity supply for economic rejuvenation.
Over the span of 18 months, a staggering 344 kilometers of roads, coupled with the construction of 2 flyovers, have been awarded and officially initiated.
The ambitious target of delivering an additional 250 kilometers by March 2024 highlights the administration’s dedication to enhancing connectivity and accessibility for the citizens of Anambra.
Importantly, these figures do not merely encapsulate road construction but also encompass vital initiatives such as road rehabilitation, erosion control, and the essential task of desilting drainage systems to fortify the state against environmental challenges.
In the realm of electricity, the administration has inked a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). This strategic alliance sets in motion a transformative journey toward achieving 24/7 electricity in key urban centres within the next two years.
The electrifying commitment aims to power our cities incessantly, propelling them into a new era of limitless possibilities and economic vibrancy.
Beyond the streets, the transformation extends to the very fabric of our nights, with the conversion of 25,000 diesel-powered streetlights to solar technology. This environmentally conscious move not only ensures sustainable night time illumination but also does so at a minimal cost.
The ripple effect is felt in the revitalization of our night economy, paving the way for a more eco-friendly and economically sustainable future.
Indeed, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s administration stands as a tribute to visionary leadership, translating promises into tangible actions that redefine the trajectory of Anambra State.
As we navigate the path to a livable and prosperous homeland, these accomplishments underscore the administration’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of the state, setting the stage for a future characterized by progress, sustainability, and enduring prosperity.
On the bustling streets of Awka in Anambra State, a poignant image flickered to life lately. It was that of a forgotten tennis champion, Tanya Okpala, adrift in the throes of despair.
The viral video, capturing her struggles on the city’s margins, resonated deeply, etching a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can ambush even the most celebrated in society. Yet, from the obscurity of neglect, a beacon of hope has emerged – Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, a leader whose heart beats with the rhythm of compassion, extending a helping hand to lift the fallen champion.
Okpala’s story, once crafted with threads of sporting glory for Nigeria and the sting of societal neglect, resonated across the social media. A biracial athlete with a Belarusian mother and Anambra-native father, her triumphs on the tennis court had once emblazoned Nigeria’s name on the international stage in the 1990s.
Now, the cruel twist of fate saw her wandering the streets, her spirit shadowed by whispers of abandonment and the sting of prejudice. But Governor Soludo, once his attention was drawn to the trending video, refused to be a bystander to this unfolding tragedy. In a swift and decisive move, he took Okpala under the protective wing of the Anambra State government through the Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, pledging total support for her rehabilitation and reunion with her loved ones.
This was not merely a political gesture; it was the embodiment of genuine concern, a leader stepping up to his social responsibility. Equally commendable was the swift action of the First Lady Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the governor’s wife. Reaching out with the empathetic touch of a fellow woman, she assured Okpala of the government’s commitment to her recovery and reintegration. Her promise to extend support through her NGO, “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo,” underscored the holistic approach envisioned – addressing not just physical well-being but also the intangible wounds of mental health.
Governor Soludo’s responsive actions transcend the realm of mere governance. They illuminate the profound impact a leader’s empathy can have on the lives of the vulnerable. His story resonates with a universal truth – that compassion is not a political tool, but a human imperative. In reaching out to Okpala, he has not only offered solace to a fallen champion but also restored faith in the power of humanity to heal and uplift.
This act of compassion stands as a further demonstration of Governor Soludo’s leadership across board in Anambra. He is touching lives for good in every stratum of the state. It is a leadership that recognizes the fragility of human lives and the sacred duty to extend a helping hand to those who stumble.
It is a leadership that inspires hope, reminding us that even in the darkest corners, the flicker of kindness can illuminate the path to a brighter tomorrow. As Okpala is being given quality medical and welfare attention by the Anambra State government, surely, her journey towards recovery has taken off. Yes, with the assured support of Governor Soludo and his wife, a new chapter beckons – one etched with the promise of healing, reconnection, and a second chance at a fulfilling life.
This story is not just about a fallen champion; it is a tribute to the transformative power of empathy in the hands of a compassionate leader. It is a story that deserves to be etched in our collective memory, a beacon of hope reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit, when nurtured with compassion, can soar once again!
Concluding, it’s imperative to commend the patriotic role played by Ambassador Mary Onyali, MFR, Nigerian famous sprinter and some of her equally patriotic friends and colleagues who brought Tanya’s issues to the public glare. It was an awesome art of selflessness and patriotism that paid off handsomely!
Anambra State has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, securing an incredible four prestigious awards during the ICT peer review session at the 11th National Council on Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) meeting held in Kano.
The meeting was chaired by the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani and hosted by the Kano State Governor, Engr Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The vision of the administration of Mr Governor, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, is to build a liveable and prosperous Smart Mega City and Mr. Governor is massively leveraging technology and digital innovation towards achieving this vision.
The awards, a testament to Anambra’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and progress in the digital realm, are as follows:
*The Overall Winner Best State in Digital Technology Development:* Here, Anambra State stood tall as the undisputed overall winner, scoring the highest number of points in all categories, showcasing its comprehensive dedication to advancing the state in the digital landscape. This award was presented to the MD/CEO, Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA) by the Kano State Governor, His Excellency, Engr Abba Kabir Yusuf.
*First Position Best State in Digital Infrastructure Technology Development:* Under this category, Anambra State was recognized as the leading state in ICT infrastructure development, following the full implementation of the Zero Right Of Way (RoW) policy, implementation of an Internet Exchange Point; all emphasizing the state’s commitment to building a robust foundation for the prosperity of its people, using Technology. This award was presented by the Minister of CIDE, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
*First Runner-up in e-Government Implementation:* Anambra’s innovative e-government initiatives earned it the second position, highlighting the state’s effective use of technology in governance. The award was presented by the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi.
*First Runner-up in Digital Technology Human Capital Development:* This award reinforces the state’s commitment to building a digitally-skilled and knowledgeable workforce and society in general. The final award was presented by the Kano State, Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Alhaji Mohammed Othman.
It is noteworthy that Anambra’s impressive outing at the annual event that brings together the federal government and state underscores its strategic vision and exemplary but detailed execution in the realms of infrastructure, e-government, and human capital development under the visionary leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.
The awards during the official opening ceremony, followed the earlier recognition received during the ICT Peer Review session, where Anambra’s presentation made by Dr. Florence Idigo, a Director in the State ICT Agency, garnered enthusiastic applause and commendation from industry experts.
Receiving the awards on behalf of Mr. Governor, the MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, expressed profound appreciation to Mr. Governor for creating the enabling environment and a vision which guides the Agency in line with the ‘Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere’ mantra.
CFA also dedicated the awards not only to the team at ICT Agency but to the co-operation and collaboration of the entire solution team for their hard work and dedication to Mr. Governor’s vision.
“This achievement no doubt reflects our unwavering commitment to technological advancement and the transformative journey we are championing in Anambra State,” he concluded.
