Anambra State Government under the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism and the Ministry of Local Government, Communities and Chieftaincy Affairs are set to host the 2024 New Yam Festival on the 9th of November at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka beginning by 11:00 am. The event aims to showcase the unique and prestigious cultural heritage of the Igbo people to the world.
The Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji said this in an interview session in his office at Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka.
He stated that the festival is the second edition of the present administration, aiming to bring Ndi Anambra as people and family to get together and celebrate the significance of yam which is a traditional cultural event the Igbos are known for.
“As at this time, families, villages, communities and even some Anambra indigenes in the diaspora have celebrated their new yam festival and now, it is time for the state to celebrate with the Governor, Prof Charles Soludo, alongside Traditional Rulers, President Generals, Members of the State Executive Council, Legislatures, Judiciary, the Local Government and the people.”
Mr. Onyenji stated that the festival will enhance socio-economic activities, promote tourism, provide opportunities for relaxation and fun, and foster peace and unity through the numerous side attractions that will be featured.
“There will be a competition to ascertain the biggest yam cultivated in 2024 and the winner of the competition will go home with a cash reward of one million naira courtesy of Mr. Governor,” he said.
The 2024 New Yam Festival will feature the traditional cutting and eating of the roasted yam, masquerade display, local government parades, various cultural dancers and others.
* Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a resolution commending Governor Chukwuma Soludo for extending free educational policy to Senior Secondary School students in the state public schools.
The resolution was passed following a motion moved by the member representing Aguata Constituency One, Mr Anayo Okpaleke and Chairman House committee on Education.
The Speaker, Mr Somtoo Udeze who presided over plenary read out the resolution and the lawmakers unanimously adopted it through voice vote.
In his submissions, Okpaleke noted that Governor Soludo had earlier granted free education from Nursery, Primary and Junior Secondary Schools (JSS 3) to pupils and students of all State Public Schools and also extended the same to Senior Secondary School Students in Public Schools.
He reiterated that access to quality education equips beneficiaries with the necessary tools to excel and take their destinies into their hand, thereby ensuring effective use of their talents for all round development and progress.
He further explained the governor’s free education policy has now opened windows of opportunities as evidenced by the upsurge in school enrolment of pupils and students in the state public schools, breaking the cycle of social and economic barriers as well as poverty.
In support of the motion, the member representing Aguata Constituency Two, Chief Tony Muobike, his Ogbaru Constituency One counterpart, Noble Igwe and the Deputy Majority Leader, Dr. Jude Akpua, expressed their approval of the governor’s initiative, saying it has brought positive revolution to the state
Similarly, the House passed the report of the House Committee On Finance and Appropriation on the 2025-2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), Economic and Fiscal Update (EFU), Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) and Budget Policy Statement (BPS) document.
The documents outline the state’s fiscal plans, economic outlook, and budgetary goals for the next three years and sets a strategic foundation for sustainable growth and responsible budgeting.
* Okeke is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo has visited the flood displaced persons’ camp at Odekpe Central School in Ogbaru LGA.
Addressing the flood victims which included; men, women and children, the governor’s wife sympathized with them on the extent of damage caused by the flood disaster, assured them of positive response from the state government.
She emphasized on the importance of maintaining good cleanliness and healthy living in the camp.
While donating some food items, disinfectants, toiletries and cash to the flood victims, Mrs Soludo pleaded with the good spirited individuals and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to come to the aid of those affected by flood in the state.
The Regional Representative, World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Chukwumuanya Igbokwe promised to set up mobile clinic in the camp, in order to give the victims proper medical care/ attention. He thanked the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his fatherly love to Ndi Anambra.
The Deputy Mayor of Ogbaru Local Government Area, Mr Kenneth Akuegbe expressed his heart felt gratitude to the governor. He also commended the effort of the wife of the state government in supporting the helpless individuals.
He further pleaded for the provision of mattresses and blankets to keep the victims safe from sicknesses.
* kwuanusi and Okeke are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*
Anambra State Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim has stated that the state security network is a work in progress, that insecurity in Anambra has been reduced to its barest minimum.
He made this known during an online discussion tagged ‘Youth Speak’, where some where pressing state issues like security, kidnapping, flooding, inadequate electricity, and vandalism of government properties were tackled. He emphasized the urgent need for collective action against insecurity.
Dr Ibezim urged individuals, community leaders, and security agencies to join forces with the state government to combat insecurity and ensure public safety.
He urged Ndi Anambra to always take ownership of whatever development that the state government has put in their domain.
On the issue of kidnapping, Dr Ibezim advised that the slogan, ‘If you see something, say something’ should be widely practiced in the state, that people should make it a habit to know their neighbours and what they do for a living.
He warned those vandalizing government properties to desist from doing so, as it was reported that pipe-borne water equipments in some areas are been vandalized, stressing that those into such practices are enemies of progress and when caught would be severely punished.
“The administration has consistently made its accomplishments transparent and listened to the people to incorporate their needs into its plans.
“We’re committed to empowering individuals, particularly youths, to grow their businesses, acquire new skills, and thrive. Our government prioritizes youth development, ensuring opportunities for all, he stated.
Dr Ibezim further stated that the Facebook live is a medium for him to engage and educate the people on government activities as part of his statutory obligations, promised that the live session comes up every Friday by 8pm – 10pm.
Okpala is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has shown her support for flood-displaced individuals in Umuoba-Anam by providing foodstuffs and cash donations.
During her visit to Unity Primary School, which currently shelters about 1,000 displaced individuals, primarily women and children, Mrs. Soludo emphasized the need for stakeholders and community involvement in aiding those affected by the disaster.
She highlighted the government’s concern for the displaced persons’ wellbeing, particularly regarding health and hygiene standards in the camp, urging camp managers to ensure proper dietary practices and maintain safety protocols.
During the visit, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, WHO’s South East Zonal Coordinator, pledged collaboration with the state government to establish a mobile clinic in the camp to address medical needs.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, confirmed ongoing medical support for those in the camp and praised the governor’s wife’s timely visit.
The Anambra East Local Government Chairman, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Chinweze acknowledged the government’s efforts in supporting the camp’s daily needs and commended Mrs. Soludo for her commitment.
Accompanied in the visit were Engr Julius Chukwuemeka, Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, alongside WHO team.
*Chukwudi is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The member representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency , Hon. Justice Azuka has commissioned two functional healthcare centres in Onitsha North 1, saying that it is his way of showing commitment to the well-being of his constituents.
He explained that the first healthcare centre is located at immanuel Anglican Church, Onitsha and the second at Osuma all in Onitsha North1, fully equipped with modern facilities to provide quality healthcare services to the people of Onitsha North 1 Constituency.
Azuka, while commissioning the centers, emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare in improving the lives of citizens. He reiterated his dedication to improving the welfare of his constituents and ensuring they receive quality services.
Furthermore, the commissioning ceremony was attended by community leaders, healthcare professionals, and constituents who commended his efforts in addressing the healthcare needs of the community.
The lawmaker also Shared Tubers of Yam to his Constituents at his constituency office at Savoy road Onitsha, Anambra State, reaffirming his dedication to the welfare of his constituents, emphasizing that their well-being remains his top priority.
He said,”It’s a gesture of kindness and appreciation to his constituents at the eight wards that make up Onitsha North 1 using his six month’s salary as he promised earlier.
The Constituents thanked the lawmaker for his kindness, noting that the gesture would go a long way in alleviating the financial burden on many families.
Mr Eugene Emembo, one of his constituents commended the lawmaker. “This shows his commitment to the development of Onitsha North 1 Constituency and his resolve to ensure that his constituents have access to basic amenities”.
Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners has flagged-off the Intergrated Measles vaccination campaign in the State.
The flag-off ceremony held at Okpuno Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Awka South Local Government Area (LGA) marked the commencement of Measles vaccination in the State which would kick start from November 6 to 12, 2024.
The Commissioner, SMOH, Dr Afam Obidike during his remarks at the flag-off ceremony urged Ndi Anambra and people living in the state to ensure that their eligible children of nine to 59 months were vaccinated, thus, protected from the Measles disease.
He noted that aside the opportunity which the campaign gives, immunization services were always available at health facilities across the State and were given free of charge.
Dr. Obidike urged people not to be scared of any Adverse Effects Following Immunization (AEFI) as WHO and other partners had aided in developing adverse effects management with healthcare workers trained for the purpose.
The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem emphasized that immunization services, ante-natal care and delivery services were free in government health facilities. She urged people to always make a report whenever they were charged for any of the aforementioned services.
She noted that vaccines were key in the fight against preventable diseases and urged mothers/caregivers to utilise the campaign opportunity and ensure that their children aged nine to 59 months were vaccinated with the Measles vaccine.
The WHO South East Zonal Coordinator, Dr Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, congratulated the government and people of the state for their commitment toward the flag-off ceremony and commencement of the vaccination exercise in the state.
“The flag-off exercise is the beginning of a week long activity in searching for eligible children to vaccinate them with not just Measles vaccine, but also other Routine Immunization (RI) vaccines.
He, on behalf of WHO and other supporting Partners, expressed gratitude to the Anambra Health Commissioner, Executive Secretary and ASPHCDA team for the extra ordinary efforts in enabling the flag-off to hold which made way for the commencement of vaccination exercise in the State.
“The Measles campaign is the promotion of primary healthcare which is the foundation of a strong health system and the most viable partway for health security and Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It is a pathway to achieve the sustainable development goals.
“Our witness here today, is a tripartite partnership between the community, the Government, and the development Partners.
“We commit that WHO and her sister Partners: UNICEF, NPHCDA, AFENET, and CHAI would continue to support the Government of Anambra State in immunization, primary healthcare, and other health systems strengthening to attain the highest level of health in the State,” Dr Igboekwu said.
The NPHCDA Anambra State Coordinator, Mr Obioha Agbakwuru represented by NPHCDA ZTO, Mr Mcdonald Ugwu noted that the event which marks a significant milestone in collective efforts toward protection of children/communities, is commitment toward improving health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations.
He commended the ASPHCDA, SMOH and supporting partners for their tireless efforts in making the campaign a reality whilst urging parents/caregivers to ensure their children/wards were vaccinated as together Anambra State and Nigeria at large can be made measles-free.
The event featured health talks and sensitization from the State Health Educator (SHE)- Mrs Uju Onwuegbuzina, State Immunization Officer (SIO)- Mrs Edith Onwuka and the Breastfeeding Coordinator- Mrs Ngozi Onoh.
In attendance at the event includes: the Director, Disease Control and Immunization, ASPHCDA, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi, WHO Anambra State Coordinator, Dr Bonos Mohammed, ASPHCDA team, Representatives of NPHCDA, WHO, UNICEF, CHAI, and AFENET.
Also, the Traditional Ruler of Okpuno Community, Igwe Engr Sunday I Okafor, and Mayor Awka South LGA, Prince Chinedu Okafor represented by Supervisory Councillor for Health, Awka South LGA, Mr Frank Ajezu.
*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, Mr Echezona Anazodo, took a significant step towards improving the region’s infrastructure by touring damaged roads in Nnewi with representatives from the Anambra State Ministry of Works on October 29, 2024. This move followed his recognition of the dire state of the road network in Nnewi North since assuming office.
The chairman’s efforts to revitalize Nnewi’s infrastructure paid off as Governor Charles Soludo swiftly responded to his call for action by sending his team to assess, cost, and prioritize the reconstruction of these roads. The roads included; Owerri Road, Igwe Orizu Road as well as Nkwo to Nkwo Road.
He reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the overall well-being of Nnewi, demonstrating his dedication to the community’s growth and development.
“The collaborative effort between the local government and the state ministry of works marks a significant milestone in Nnewi North’s journey towards improved infrastructure and a better quality of life for its residents.This move aligns with Governor Soludo’s development agenda, which prioritize road infrastructure.”
The event had the Deputy Mayor Nnewi North, Mrs Ijeoma Okoli, Speaker of the council, Hon. Chijioke Nwizugbe and Ifebi Uloma, amongst others
Uzuegbunam and Okoye are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Anambra State Government has praised the federal government for launching the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) to tackle school insecurity. This commendation came after the State Police Command inaugurated the squad, making Anambra the first state in the Southeast and fourth in Nigeria to implement this initiative ¹.
The inauguration event, held at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Center in Awka, brought together key stakeholders in education and security.
Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, representing Governor Chukwuma Soludo, expressed gratitude to the federal government for prioritizing school safety. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with Governor Soludo’s commitment to enhancing security in educational institutions.
According to Dr. Ibezim, Anambra State appreciates the federal government’s response to protect schools and students, particularly as the state undertakes large-scale educational infrastructure projects. He noted that Governor Soludo’s free education policy has increased public school enrollment, making school security even more crucial.
Commissioner for Education Prof. Ngozi Chuma Udeh commended Commissioner of Police CP Obono Nnaghe Itam for his dedication to bringing this initiative to Anambra, stressing the importance of community collaboration for school safety.
The Schools Protection Squad aims to ensure the safety of schools and surrounding communities, addressing rising attacks and kidnappings by bandits. This proactive measure protects young learners and strengthens educational sector security. With Anambra leading the way, this initiative may set a precedent for other states to follow suit.
Nwankwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment towards ensuring security of lives and property in the state.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim made the pledge at Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Center Awka during the training of Schools Protection Squad, that will help strengthen security resilience and integration of host communities in the protection of education.
According to him, a lot has been done in the education sector of the state and we are glad that the federal government through the Nigerian Police has awaken to the clarion call for the protection of these efforts made so far in schools.
Explaining on the need to protect the future generation, the governor stated that the state is making efforts to promote a safe and conducive learning environment, stressing that with the provision of infrastructures and adequate manpower, there is a paradigm shift in education in the state and people are now moving from private and mission schools to public schools.
He disclosed that more public schools will be built in state, as every community must have a public school, and called for community partnership that involves Traditional Rulers, President Generals and other structured organizations in ensuring safety in schools.
Speaking on behalf of Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Godwin Aghaulor stated that the SPS programme offers promising steps and measures geared towards prioritizing and improving security in and around schools and learning institutions in Anambra State.
He commended Governor Soludo’s unwavering support and commitment to the course of school protection in the state, stating that the safety and security of the educational institutions are paramount and it is imperative that all work together to protect and safeguard the students and educators.
The IG called for collaboration and integration between host communities and security agencies, stressing that it plays a significant role in fostering a secure and harmonious co-existence.
Also, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Obono Nnaghe Itam noted that education holds the future for development and growth of Anambra State and the entire country.
He pointed the need to strengthen the security architecture of the state in order to provide safer communities and to ensure that schools, staff, students and pupils are protected, maintaining that the SPS programme will help to boost the confidence of the Nigerian Police, as well as foster the required partnership with other informal security agencies in the state.
The event was organized by the Nigerian Police Force Strategic Stakeholders Forum on the training of Schools Protection Squad (SPS)
Okpala is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
