The Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr Somtochukwu Udeze said Anambra State has produced a renowned priest in Africa in the person of Francis Cardinal Arinze.
Felicitating Cardinal Arinze, the Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments on his 92nd birthday, Udeze described him as an outstanding religious leader.
The Speaker who called on other religious leaders to emulate Francis Cardinal Arinze’s humility, uprightness, good nature and devotion, noted that he has done the state, Ndi Igbo, Nigeria and Africa proud in his religious career.
He revealed that Francis Cardinal Arinze has in the course of his priestly mandate and duties, received an unprecedented Gold Medallion from the International Council of Christians and Jews for his outstanding achievements in inter-faith relations.
The speaker while praying God to continue to strengthen Francis Cardinal Arinze in all goodness, wished him more eventful years ahead as he continues his service to God and humanity.
Okeke is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has launched two innovative initiatives under her “Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo” project. The Weekly Exercise Regime and Gardening programs kicked off at the Idemili North LGA Headquarters in Ogidi and are set to expand to other local government areas across the state.
Mrs Soludo advised the people of Idemili North LGA to start weekly physical exercise regime as their participation in physical exercises would bring countless and immense health benefits to them.
” Doing physical exercise improves our hearts’ condition; and it helps us to check and maintain our body weight, Not only does our participation in physical exercises improve our moods, but also it offers us the opportunity to congregate and socialize with one another, ” Mrs Soludo said.
She noted that volunteers, who are physical fitness experts, are needed to train those who would participate in the newly introduced weekly physical exercises.
More so, she introduced gardening to the Idemili North people, the aim of which is to cultivate vegetables like water leaves, water melon, okro, hot pepper, fluted pumpkin, garden egg, lettuce, green pepper, carrot, cabbage, and maize.
She promised to give the farmers organic seeds which would mature for harvest within three months of planting them.
While saying that the garden produce would be sold in the farmers’ market, she stated that soil fertility would be maintained over the years, by using organic fertilizers.
The Chairman of Idemili North LGA, Mr. Stanley Nkwoka, thanked Mrs. Soludo for starting the physical exercise and gardening initiatives at Idemili North LGA, and promised to support them, wholeheartedly.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, highlighted Gov. Soludo’s lofty achievements in health care which included; provision of free antenatal care services for pregnant women in the state.
Dr. Obidike emphasized that pregnant women who deliver their babies through either normal and safe delivery or cesarean section won’t pay any money, provided they’ve registered with the designated hospitals.
He assured the people that Gov. Soludo would not discontinue the implementation of his people-oriented policies, especially the Anambra free education policy and the construction of roads.
The Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, pledged his unalloyed support for the things, which Mrs. Soludo are doing in the state.
Hundreds of people, including APGA faithful, attended the event and cheered Mrs. Soludo as she unveiled the weekly exercise regime and gardening initiative.
Among those who attended the event were the Chairman of APGA in Anambra State, Ifeatu Obi-Okoye; Mrs Amaka Obi, Chairperson of Idemili South LGA; the Commissioner for Special Duties, Beverly Nkemdichie; Deputy Chairman of Idemili North LGA, Lady Phina Onwuachu; among others.
Okoye is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Commissioner for Information, Anambra State, Dr. Law Mefor, on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman/Executive Officer, Anambra State Internal Revenue Service (AIRS), Dr. Greg Ezeilo, at his office in Awka.
While addressing the AIRS Chairman, Mefor said he was there to familiarise himself with the institution and its management and see what could be done to sensitise Ndị Anambra on tax payment, which is necessary for the quick realisation of Soludo’s ambitious plan for Anambra and the state’s development.
According to him, Governor Soludo has a lot of mega projects ongoing in various parts of the state, which will be realised fully and in good time if the internally generated revenue is improved.
“When the Governor is crying about revenue, we can understand because he has a lot of mega multi-billion naira projects across the state, which is a testimony that he is putting the taxpayers’ money to good use.
“It’s a lot of pressure on you, and we are there in the Ministry of Information to help. We want to work with you, and we are ready to do whatever can be done to sensitise our people to understand that payment of tax is necessary, especially as the state does not get much from the centre, so we have to survive from inside.
Dr. Mefor commended Ndị Anambra for their support so far to the Soludo-led administration through the payment of taxes and urged them to do more.
“I’m sure that if Ndị Anambra are well mobilised and sensitised that their money is being put to use, they will be happy to pay their tax regularly. That’s why I keep saying that Governor Soludo’s achievements are underreported. Our people need to know about the achievements of the Soludo government and the projects and programmes in the works. Information ministry will therefore join hands with AIRS for a massive public enlightenment on tax compliance by our people,” he said.
In his remarks, the AIRS Chairman, Dr. Ezeilo, stated that Anambra is making much progress under Governor Soludo through internally generated revenue from his office. He added that he is convinced that other states will soon come to study Anambra’s revenue generation management.
Ezeilo, who used the opportunity to conduct the commissioner round the office, presented various awards won by AIRS as the best-performing government institution in the South-East, among others.
* Oranye is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo has cleared a significant backlog of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) grant for the years 2019, 2020, and 2022, a financial obligation he inherited upon taking office.
Chairman of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr Vera Nwadibobi made the announcement during the 2024 Under-12 sports competition held at Fun City Stadium in Awka.
Dr. Nwadinobi highlighted that this long-awaited payment enabled Anambra’s participation in the annual sports event organized in collaboration with UBEC, Abuja, underscoring the essential role of funding in fostering educational and extracurricular opportunities.
Representing the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, commended the initiative, stressing that sports is a vital part of education and promotes students’ holistic development. She encouraged students to embrace the spirit of competition, noting that success lies in participation.
The event showcased talent from primary schools across Anambra’s 21 local government areas, featuring track events and other sports activities aiming to identify and nurture young talent as they advance toward the national stage.
In a decisive move to address the growing security concerns in the state, the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) held its 33rd meeting on October 29, 2024, and resolved to confront the issues head-on ¹. The council identified kidnapping, cult killing, armed robbery, and other crimes as priority areas to be rooted out in the coming weeks.
*New Special Adviser on Community Security Sworn In*
As part of the reorganization in the security sector, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo swore in Kenneth Okwuchukwu Emeakayi as the new Special Adviser on Community Security.
*Major Infrastructure Projects Approved*
The council also approved several key infrastructure projects, including:
– *Dualization and Construction of Nwagu Agulu to Nnobi to Nnewi Road*: 18.6 km, awarded to Lebtech Constructions Ltd at ₦33.557 billion, with a 12-month project timeline.
– *Dualization and Construction of Nnewi-Ozubulu-Okija Road*: 16.51 km, awarded to Ferotex Construction Company at ₦30.918 billion, with an 18-month project timeline.
– *Light of the Nation Tower and Fountain*: Construction of the iconic tower at Ekwulobia, Aguata LGA, awarded to IDC Construction Ltd at ₦980 million, with a 4-month project timeline.
– *Supply and Installation of Medical Equipment*: For the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, awarded to De Jotlims Medical Ltd at ₦236.371 million, with a 2-month project timeline.
These projects are expected to significantly boost infrastructure development and improve the quality of life for residents in Anambra State.
On Sunday, October 13th, 2024, Anambra State was abuzz with excitement as the Anambra Picnic and Funfair took over the state-of-the-art Film Village in Awka. This highly anticipated event united families, friends, and thrill-seekers of all ages, transforming the venue into a dynamic hotspot of entertainment, laughter and joy.
The picnic and funfair offered an unforgettable experience, featuring:
Thrilling games and activities, scintillating music and dance performances, delicious local cuisine and refreshing treats.
Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, partnered with the Anambra State Tourism Volunteers Network (TV) to host the prestigious event. The TV Network, comprising passionate tourism enthusiasts, focuses on promoting tourism’s vast benefits and fostering its growth in the state.
The event’s success underscores Anambra’s commitment to promoting tourism, cultural heritage, and community bonding. As the state continues to invest in initiatives like the Film Village, Anambra solidifies its position as a premier destination for leisure, entertainment and cultural exploration in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Culture and Entertainment, Mr Don Onyenji emphasised the importance of cultural events in promoting unity and social cohesion.
According to him, “this picnic and funfair is more than just entertainment; it’s about celebrating our rich cultural heritage and fostering community bonding. Anambra State is committed to supporting initiatives that showcase our unique identity and promote tourism development.”
He maintained that globally, tourism has emerged as the new oil and gas, driving economic growth and development. According to him, if Anambra State fully develops its tourism sector, it could become the next richest state in Nigeria in a remarkably short time.
Onyenji further noted that the present administration has intentionally embraced tourism project and also committed billions of naira in tourism development in the state, both through its policies, programmes, and physical projects.
Anambra State is already recognized for its vibrant commercial activities and entrepreneurship. By harnessing its tourism potential, the state can further diversify its economy, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, agricultural strengths and strategic location. With continued investment and support, Anambra is poised to climb the economic ladder, potentially surpassing other states in the near future.
The commissioner elaborated on the governor’s vision for Anambra, aiming to transform it into a thriving homeland where residents can live, work, unwind, and enjoy themselves. Key projects underway to achieve this vision include the groundbreaking Solution Fun City Awka (SFCA), Sub-Saharan Africa’s first-of-its-kind entertainment hub, boasting a country club, amusement park, and sports facilities. Other notable initiatives include the Neighbourhood Leisure Park in Awka and the construction of a massive ten-storey hotel also in Awka.
These developments underscore the governor’s commitment to making Anambra an attractive destination for residents and tourists alike, ultimately boosting the state’s economy and prosperity. By investing in infrastructure and entertainment, Anambra is poised to become a model for liveability and economic growth in Nigeria.
“The development of the Solution Fun City alone will create numerous job opportunities and serve as a central hub for leisure and tourism in the state,” Onyenji stated.
He further explained that Governor Soludo is transforming Anambra into a tourist haven, beyond the impressive Solution Fun City. Significant projects underway include the retrofitting and expansion of the Igboukwu Museum, home to a rich collection of Igbo cultural artifacts.
The Agulu Lake Leisure Park is also being developed, with plans for an artificial beach, offering exciting recreational opportunities. These initiatives will cement Anambra’s status as a premier tourist destination in Nigeria, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
He also explained that the state government is making significant strides in promoting rural tourism by developing and showcasing heritage sites across various communities. Key sites include: Ogbunike Cave, Owerre-Ezukala Waterfalls, Anam Sand Beach and the historic Ojukwu Bunker in Amorka, which played a pivotal role during the Nigerian Civil War among others.
Unveiling the Anambra State Chapter of the Tourism Volunteers Network, he emphasized the importance of collaboration to boost the sector. To ensure tourism development reaches beyond urban areas, the state government is actively engaging with local communities to establish leisure parks, promoting grassroots growth and community involvement.
“Anambra State is home to numerous natural and historical treasures that are yet to be fully explored. Our goal is to bring these attractions to the forefront, not just for entertainment or for tourism development, but also to preserve our rich cultural heritage,” he said.
The commissioner extended an invitation to investors to consider Anambra State, highlighting its vast tourism potential, numerous investment opportunities, and status as the safest and most conducive state for investments in the country.
Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, represented by the Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, Ambassador Phil Robert praised Anambra’s tourism potentials and commended the state government’s innovative approach and commitment to boosting tourism.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including Prince Chinedu Okafor, Chairman of Awka South Local Government, and Mr. Chinedu Obidigwe, former National Assembly member representing Anambra East/West Federal Constituency. Also in attendance was Chidi Uzowulu, State Coordinator of Anambra Tourism Volunteers Network, along with numerous other dignitaries. They collectively acknowledged Anambra’s vast natural resources and tourism potential, praising the current administration’s efforts to develop and harness these assets.
Kalu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
There was unmitigated flow of commendations Saturday, 26th of October 2024 at Emmaus House Awka, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State when the lawmaker representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency, Prof. Lilian Orogbu, presented her one-year stewardship to constituents
The presentation was made at the event organized by the United Nations Women/National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) step-down programme in Anambra State.
The event brought together representatives from various groups, including clergy, traditional rulers, youths and women organizations, and stakeholders from all 34 wards in Awka to bear witness of the track records of one of the best lawmakers the constituency has ever produced.
Articulating her achievements within one year in office, Prof. Lilian Orogbu disclosed that some of her achievements include reconstruction of classroom blocks at Ezioka Community Secondary School, Agulu Awka Primary School, and Community Primary School, Ikwodiaku.
She further dazzle the public by including the construction of a proposed mini stadium in Achalla, Awka North LGA, and provision of solar power at two health centers in Ezinato and Urum, provision of grants for small business owners, empowerment of 200 widows with grinding and sewing machines, and distribution of fertilizers as some of the few-mentioned projects in the constituency.
The lawmaker who said she secured employment for some constituents and sponsored legislative bill for the establishment of a college of entrepreneurship studies in Awka insisted that legislative work is beyond yes or nay chorus in the chamber.
The ebullient lawmaker and a professor of international repute, attributed her success to the support of her constituents, her late husband’s family, and her dedication to serving the people while describing the 10th National Assembly as “gender-friendly” and expressed her commitment to evolving policies and programs that would benefit her constituents.
In her assessment of the current state government under Prof. Charles Soludo, Orogbu expressed concerns about the insecurities in the state, calling for more focused efforts as he commend him for the road networks in the state.
In his goodwill message, the United Nations representative, Mr. Patrick Nnadozie Udefuna, emphasized the importance of enhancing women’s political representation in Nigeria, citing their proven abilities as leaders and agents of change.
In her remarks, Awka Development Union Women’s Wing, Oge Ekweozor ( Esq),commended the lawmaker, Prof Orogbu for bringing the conference to women in a time like this. She said women participation in politics can be increased via a viable committee and by voting them into elective office during election.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Prof. Orogbu by the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) Youths, Awka.
Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Gov. Chukwuma Soludo has joined the Anambra State House of Assembly to bid farewell to Late Rt. Hon. Harford Oseke, member who represented Awka South II constituency, Majority Leader of the 5th Assembly and Deputy Speaker of the 6th Assembly.
A valedictory session was held in his honour at the Anambra State House of Assembly Complex Awka.
Commiserating with the Oseke family, Gov. Soludo represented by his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim eulogized the former Deputy Speaker as one whose service as a lawmaker was selfless, a great man who played his role diligently.
According to the governor, We are gathered today to celebrate the life and legacy of an exceptional individual who dedicated his life to the service of his constituency and our great state.
He prayed that his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Ndi Anambra will never be forgotten and his legacy sustained.
In a tribute, the Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somto Udeze described Hon. Oseke as a seasoned legislator who contributed his quota to the development and well-being of his constituents and the state.
Udeze noted that the late lawmaker passed and sponsored bills benefiting the people. Adding the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye praised Oseke’s wisdom and humility.
A vote of thanks by the family member, hand over of the condolence register to his wife, file past the coffin and tributes from both present and past House of Assembly members formed the highlights of the session.
The deceased wife, his children, extended families, member representing Ihiala federal Constituency, Hon. Paschal Agbodike, Anambra State Head of service, Dr. Theodora Igwegbe, others were present to pay last respect to late Oseke.
*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has identified quality education to children of all class as road to Dubai Taiwan development strategy he promised.
He said this while addressing Ndi Akpo, on a day visit to them, at Akpo Junction, Aguata LGA, on October 19.
Soludo said, “the idea of free education to all had been in me before I became governor.
“The public primary school in my community had 190 pupils 14 years ago when I took over school fees, uniform and other things needed to get educated as a pupil. Lately, I was told that we have over 800 pupils in the school.
“Investing on our children education is the only way we can guarantee sustainable growth and development of this part of the world.
“Some myopic critics thought that Dubai Taiwan we promised are mansions, skyscrapers springing up everywhere in less than 3 years in office or fixing all roads in Anambra State.
“These infrastructure development are good and we are doing all we can within the available resources to fixing them.
“Employment of 8150 teachers in less than 3 years in office is unprecedented. We have never seen it happen in any state of this country.
“The aim is to end the era of schools without teachers. Having employed quality teachers, we profound quality teach mechanism.
“We are building children that will take over from us and build formidable society, even without petroleum deposits.”
According to him, the Taiwan we are talking about today do not have mineral resources such as crude oil, but with education they developed their technology to the top where they are now.
He extolled Ndi Akpo who have been putting their personal resources into education, pleading with them to keep up the tempo.
“The free education from Nursery to Secondary School level, is to close the gap between children of the rich and those of the poor.”
He noted that access to quality education ought to be equal to all, if we must get it right.
The Governor told Ndi Akpo not to worry about Amesi- Akpo-Ogboji Road, that has been bone in their throats, as he is going to award it next month.
“It is a 7.1kilometre road. By this time next year, we will know how far we have gone fixing the road.”
This promise pushed Ndi Akpo to joy galore as everybody jumped up for joy.
The occasion featured commissioning of college road and Comprehensive Health Centre which were constructed by community efforts.
He extolled Ndi Akpo for thinking health, road infrastructure and education facilities.
The Governor promised going to come back to Akpo to commission community driven projects at Community Secondary School Akpo, as soon as they are ready.
He enjoined other communities in Anambra State to emulate Ndi Akpo as they embark on development projects.
Earlier, the President General, Akpo Development Association (ADA), Nze Henry C. Dim while delivering welcome address, enumerated governor’s strives in governance.
On behalf of Ndi Akpo, he pleaded with the governor to accept contesting Guber office come 2025, promising total support of Ndi Akpo.
He emphasized that one good turn, deserves another (Uzo di mma, aga ya ugboro abuo).
The occasion attracted men from all walks of life. Prominent among them include Federal Representative, Aguata Federal Constituency, Engr. Dominic Okafor, Secretary to Anambra State Government (SSG), Prof Solo Chukwulobelu.
Member State House of Assembly, Aguata 1, Mr Anayo Okpalaeke and his counterpart Aguata II, Muobuike Anthony, Commissioner for Works, Engr Ifeanyi Okoma, and Chairman, Aguata LGA, Dr Chibueze Ofobuike.
*David and Stella are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
