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DR. OBIGWE CELEBRATES SOLUDO’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN 3 YEARS.. INVITES THE GOVERNOR TO KENNETH DIKE’S MILLENNIUM DANCE COMPETITION

By Michael Ezenwata :

As the light of the nation, Anambra State has continued to enjoy eulogies from well meaning Nigerians on the socio-economic status of the state under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

Teachers in the state have never had it so good as the governor’s education friendliness is visible in his free education policy, recruitment of teachers in both the primary and post primary schools, designation of 21 schools in the state as smart schools among others.

In Culture and Entertainment, Governor Soludo has scored a first   as the upcoming Funcity  project,among others will provide leisure and entertainment for the state residents.

In a press statement in Awka on the governor’s 3 years in office,the Principal, Kenneth Dike Memorial Secondary School Awka,Dr.Uju Obigwe  passed a vote of confidence on the governor for his breath taking advances in all sectors of the state economy particularly in the education sector.

Dr.Obigwe used the forum to speak on the imperatives of culture in promoting the cultural heritage of a people. According to the academic, Kenneth Dike Secondary School Awka wants to show case the Igbo culture through the dancing  competition.

To this end, the college has invited  Governor Soludo as a special guest  of honour to grace the occasion being organized by it and scheduled to hold this week Friday the 21st day of March, 2025

Other well meaning citizens of the state such as the state Commissioner for Education Prof.Ngozi Chuma- Udeh , the state Chairman of PPSSC, Prof  Nkechi Ikediugwu,among other stakeholders in the education industry are also expected to grace the event.

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

DR. UZOEZIE URGES WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS 

By Michael Ezenwata :

The State Chairman, League of Women Voters of Nigeria and former Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr.Ego Uzoezie has challenged women in Nigeria to rise to the challenge of marginalization to impact on the society.

Dr.Uzoezie in a press statement in Awka on this year’s International Women’s Day celebration, reiterated that the shortest cut to assert their influence is through their effective participation In politics.

According to the one time Provost, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe and Papal Medallist of the Catholic order ,women as special beings, should not abandon their roles as mothers but must not allow themselves to be intimidated out of relevance.

She disclosed that the League of Women Voters of Nigeria is working in partnership with the NAWOJ in Anambra State to champion the rights of women and particularly to urge the National Assembly to revisit and pass into law the bill to secure 74 special seats for women in the Senate and Federal House of Representatives.

As christians await the celebration of this year’s Mothering Sunday, the women activist expects mothers to be alive to their domestic roles in their families and in the larger society.

Dr.Uzoezie is the Chairman- elect International Inner Wheel Club District 914 covering 6 states namely Anambra, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi and Cross River.

Her installation will be in July, 2025

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

Three Years of Transformational Leadership – Governor Soludo’s Tech-Driven Impact on Anambra

As Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, marks three years in office, Anambra State has emerged as a beacon of technological transformation and digital progress.

His administration’s strategic investments in ICT have redefined governance, boosted economic growth, and positioned the state as a digital hub in Nigeria.

Driving Digital Infrastructure for a Connected Anambra

From facilitating the laying of fiber optic cables across the state to deploying free public Wi-Fi hotspots, Governor Soludo has prioritized digital connectivity.

Notably, Anambra became the first southeastern state to implement zero Right-of-Way (RoW) charges, ensuring faster broadband expansion and improved access to high-speed internet. Many other States have followed suit.

To bridge the digital divide, the administration has provided free public Wi-Fi hotspots in key institutions and strategic locations across the state capital, enhancing business and educational activities while boosting the economy. Locations include:

📡 Jerome Udorji Secretariat Complex, Awka
📡 Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam Campus
📡 Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka
📡 Federal Polytechnic, Oko
📡 Peter University, Achina/Onneh
📡 Strategic business and public hotspots within Awka and other urban centers

This initiative is enhancing digital accessibility, empowering students, entrepreneurs, and civil servants with seamless internet access for learning, innovation, and productivity.

E-Governance and Digitization of State Processes

Under Governor Soludo’s leadership, Anambra has fully embraced e-governance, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and professionalism in government operations.

Key achievements include:

✅ Digitization of ANSEC Meetings – Eliminating costly paperwork, improving efficiency, confidentiality, and enhancing security.

✅ Standardized State Domain (anambrastate.gov.ng) – Ensuring the use of 2nd level government domain name to promote professionalism, curb fraud, and uphold a unified digital identity for state MDAs and digital assets.

✅ SolutionLens Platform – (Accessible at lens.anambrastate.gov.ng) A citizen-to-government digital engagement tool, bridging communication gaps between citizens and government, and enhancing service delivery.

Empowering Civil Servants and Citizens with Digital Skills

Recognizing the importance of digital literacy, Governor Soludo’s administration has:

📌 Trained civil servants on the use of ICT tools for improved service delivery.
📌 Trained civil society organizations on cybersecurity awareness and access to digital tools.
📌 Distributed over 2,500 laptops to civil servants, political appointees, local government Heads of Budget and Planning, headteachers, and principals—enhancing digital governance, federal alignment, and smart education initiatives.

National Recognition for Anambra’s Digital Transformation

Anambra State’s commitment to technological excellence earned national recognition, securing four prestigious awards at the 11th National Council on Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) meeting held in Kano, namely:

🏆 Overall Winner – Best State in Digital Technology Development
🏆 1st Position – Best State in Digital Infrastructure Technology Development
🏆 1st Runner-up – e-Government Implementation
🏆 1st Runner-up – Digital Technology Human Capital Development

Strategic Partnerships for a Digital Future

Anambra’s tech-driven journey has been bolstered by key partnerships, including:

🤝 NITDA Digital Center in Isuofia – Laying the foundation for Smart Schools across the state.
🤝 Collaboration with the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) – to improve connectivity and reduce internet costs.

Strengthening Cybersecurity and Digital Identity

To enhance data security and digital inclusion, the administration has introduced:

🔹 Anambra Cloud – A secure, centralized digital storage for state digital assets. Anambra data remains in Anambra.
🔹 E-ID Card Platform – Integrating digital identity with state services for enhanced authentication.
🔹 Advanced cybersecurity measures – Including security tools, incident response plans, and automated disaster recovery systems to safeguard Anambra’s digital infrastructure.

What’s Next?

Governor Soludo’s bold ICT agenda has positioned Anambra for sustainable development. With ongoing initiatives such as:

✔ Smart School programs
✔ Land digitization through ANAMGIS
✔ Expanded digital services across multiple sectors

Anambra is on course to becoming Nigeria’s leading digital economy.

As the administration moves forward, the commitment remains steadfast—leveraging technology for sustainable growth, improved governance, and a smarter Anambra.

The Anambra State ICT Agency remains committed to driving this vision forward while staying true to the Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere agenda.

We celebrate this milestone, we look forward to even greater strides in the years ahead.

Congratulations, Mr. Governor!

Signed

Angela Nwanodu
PRO
Anambra State ICT Agency.

MEFOR DECRIES SECURITY CHALLENGES IN JEROME UDOJI SECRETARIAT …TASKS CIVIL DEFENCE OFFICERS TO SIT UP 

By Rose Oranye   :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, on Thursday, February 20, 2025, received the new Civil Defence Officer in charge of the Jerome Udoji Secretariat Complex, Awka, DSC Chioma Nnaewuru, who paid him a courtesy visit at his office. 

Addressing the new officer, Mefor, who decried the security challenges in the secretariat, charged her to be ambitious, analytical, and clear about what is needed to ensure full security in the state secretariat to be sent to the governor. 

He said the security situation in the secretariat is seriously affecting productivity, and the governor is not happy about it, even as he expressed hope that things will improve with the change in guards.

“We welcome the change in guards. It means that with your coming, we expect that the security of the secretariat will be better.

“Since my arrival almost six months ago, this place, particularly the Ministry of Information building, has experienced very serious security challenges. That explains why we power our offices with generators because of insecurity. The armoured cables supplying light to this wing were vandalised two times. The governor is saying it can’t be replaced unless he is assured it won’t be stolen the third time. My ministry’s solar panels and batteries were also vandalised, among others. And the Civil Defence is the main security agency here.

“The question is, if Civil Defence is here and these things are happening, do we now say we have Civil Defence here? Is it a case of nonchalance, complacency, or incompetence? The Civil Defence I know is one of the leading security agencies. When Governor Soludo set up Operation Udo Ga-Achị, Civil Defence was one of the six leading security agencies brought into that new security architecture. If your competence has been in doubt, you won’t be part of Operation Udo Ga-Achị, which is Governor Soludo’s latest security initiative in the state. So what is happening in the secretariat? It’s important you tell us how security can work here as a professional. You are the expert here. I don’t think it’s out of place or too much to ask that you be on top of security in this place. Let’s secure here,” Mefor said.

Earlier, the new Civil Defence Officer in charge of the secretariat, DSC Nnaewuru, said the purpose of the visit was to familiarise with the commissioner and discuss how to synergise for the effective discharge of their duties.

ARCHBISHOP IBEZIM LAUDS SOLUDO’S AGUNECHEMBA, URGES SUPPORT NOT CRITICISM 

By Uzo Ugwunze  :

Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Anglican Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim has commended the Anambra State Government for the launch of the Operation Udogachi security initiative.

Ibezim who decried the high rate of domestic violence and insecurity in Nigeria, gave the commendation while addressing the provincial council, made up of all Anglican Bishops in Anambra State, their wives, and other delegates at the Cathedral Church of Saint John Ekwulobia, Aguata Diocese.

He commended the Anambra State Government for the launch of the Operation Udogachi security initiative. He noted that the initiative is yielding positive results and called on Ndi Anambra to unite and desist from unnecessary opposition.

Speaking on the theme “Walking in Unity,” Ibezim, who doubles as Chairman of the council called on ministers of God to unite through prayers to save many souls who have continued to be led astray.

He noted that series of successes and progress would be recorded with unity of purpose among the people.

Describing education as the only currency for the future, the Archbishop assured that the province would continue to create enabling environment for quality teaching and learning among schools and colleges.

Anglican Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Right Rev Samuel Ezeofor, who spoke on the significance of the provincial council, regretted the return to idolatry by youths and called for all hands to be on deck to check this ugly trend. 

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary, Anambra State Ministry of Trade and Commerce, Sir Chinedu Ikeh, who represented the Knights in the council, called for synergy between the church and government in the ongoing efforts to improve the moral tone of society.

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

ÇIVIL WAR VETERAN ORANYE CANVASSES FULL COMPENSATION OF THE IGBOS

By Michael Ezenwata :

A Nigerian civil war veteran, Chike Oranye  (Esq),  has called on President Ahmed Bola Tinubu  led Federal Government of Nigeria to give free hand to the South East Development Commission to unleash sustainable and suitable development plans for the marginalized geo- political zone.

Oranye made the call in a press statement in Awka while reacting to the revelations made by Nigeria’s former Head of State, President Ibrahim Babangida in a public presentation of his book, “A Journey In Service’ 

According to the war veteran a native of Umuawulu,the former head of state’s confession that the 1966 nation’s coup d’ tat was not an Igbo coup is enough justification to right the wrongs meted out against the Igbos before,during and after the nation’s civil war.

The commission in his expectation should be used as a platform to deliberately formulate policies to fully integrate the Igbos in the mainstream of Nigerian politics and infrastructural development.

He urged the president to see to it that Igbos are no longer treated as second hand class citizens in their fatherland.

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

PTD BRANCH OF NUPENG BLAMES INCESSANT FALLING, EXPLOSION OF PETROLEUM TANKER VEHICLES ON HUMAN NATURE, POOR MAINTENANCE OF TRUCKS.

By Constance Nonye Muo/ Nwanneka Okechukwu :

Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTDs), branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), has blamed the incessant falling and explosion of Petroleum Tanker Vehicles across the country on human nature and poor maintenance of trucks by employers.

This came to the fore, when Anambra State Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Barr. Anthony Ifeanya, convened a meeting with PTDs of NUPENG in his office at the Jerome Udoji state secretariat, Awka to brainstorm on ways to prevent future occurances.

Committed to the safety of lives and property of Ndi Anambra, Barr. Ifeanya, requested for the data of Tanker drivers in the state, those crossing the state and their respective major distributor companies.

Commissioner Ifeanya, who stressed need for the establishment of Tanker Vehicle Parks on Public Private Partnership (PPP), to meet safety, regulatory standards and reduce heavy vehicle congestion on roads, adviced tanker drivers to be careful on wheels and desist from taking hard drugs to surpress fatigue.

In his submission, the state Chairman, PTD branch of NUPENG, Comrade Izuchukwu Onwuka, while unveiling an existing law from their national secretariat that every tanker driver should park for the day once it is six o’clock in the evening, passionately appealed for urgent establishment of Tanker Vehicle Parks, where their members can park, refresh and continue their journey on day brake, hence yielding revenue for the state. 

Comrade Onwuka, who is also the state chairman, NUPENG Coordinating Council, councelled their members to desist from managing any poorly maintained vehicle to be alive to drive for tomorrow.

Present during the assembly include the Special Assistant to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Engr Ikechukwu Okafor and the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Nkiru Nwankwor.

*Constance and Nwanneka are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

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INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY: ANAMBRA GOVT URGES TEACHERS, PARENTS, AND STAKEHOLDERS TO PROMOTE IGBO LANGUAGE FOR SUSTAINABILITY

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

The Anambra Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, has called on teachers, parents, Ohaneze Ndigbo, and the Diaspora to promote the Igbo language in schools, homes, and social gatherings for its sustainability.

The Commissioner made this statement during an interview in his office at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat in Awka, in honor of International Mother Language Day, which celebrates its “Silver Jubilee” this year, as initiated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This important day is commemorated every year on February 21.

Mr. Onyenji emphasized the necessity of sustaining the Igbo language, noting that some individuals have neglected their traditional language in favor of the ‘colonial language.’ He referenced reports from UNESCO and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) that warned of the possible extinction of the Igbo language.

He also expressed concern about the failure of some members of the diaspora and certain regions in Nigeria to teach their children the Igbo language, noting that this neglect will make it challenging for the children to connect with their traditional environment, family, and community. “As they grow into adulthood, they will find it increasingly difficult to interact with and comprehend what is happening in their traditional village setting.

“We are actively promoting the Igbo language by encouraging its use in all our interactions and discouraging the use of ‘Ngiligbo’, especially during our private meetings. Mixing Igbo with English when other tribes are present is common, but it’s essential that we prioritize speaking pure Igbo,” he said.

He added that both the current generation and future ones need to learn the Igbo language, as being bilingual is beneficial. “Knowing your language enriches your identity, and it can help you in foreign lands when you need support,” he explained.

Commissioner Onyenji expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his dedicated efforts to promote not only the Igbo language but also the core values of Ndi Igbo, which include language.

“What we are currently developing is the revival of the core values of Igbo culture which includes the promotion of our language. Once we finalize our efforts, it will significantly contribute to the promotion and sustainability of our language,” he said.

International Mother Language Day was established by UNESCO in November 1999 to raise awareness of the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity and promote multilingualism for future generations.

Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT, RED CLAY CONSULTANT FIRM VISIT AWKA CITY PARK, OWERRE-EZUKALA, AND OGBUNIKE HERITAGE SITES

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

Following the approval from Governor Chukwuma Soludo for a tourism master plan that includes five heritage sites among other attractions in the state, the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, led by the Commissioner, Mr. Don Onyenji, recently visited notable locations including Ogba Cave and Waterfall in Owerre-Ezukala, Ogbunike Cave, and Awka City Park.

Ogba Cave and Waterfall is located in the Orumba South Local Government Area, Ogbunike Cave is situated in the Oyi Local Government Area, and Awka City Park is found in Amansea within the Awka Capital Territory.

During the visit, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of the Red Clay Consultant Firm conducting research at these sites. The aim is to create a robust business case for the government on how to develop these locations into an international tourism destination.

He said, “Both Ogba Cave and Waterfall, and Ogbunike Cave, are incredible, unique, and marvellous sights to behold. Ogba Cave and Waterfall features a lake, a massive cave, and a very high waterfall, which will influence the design of any future developments. Meanwhile, Ogbunike Cave is blessed with spectacular features that have temporarily placed it on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) list, and with our efforts, we hope to secure a permanent placement on this prestigious list”.

Mr Onyenji also mentioned that Awka City Park spans 20 hectares and is planned to be developed into a city park that will encompass numerous attractions, green spaces, and facilities for relaxation and recreation. More details about these facilities will be shared in due time, and within the next five years, Anambra aims to become a prime tourism destination for both local and international visitors.

The commissioner noted that before visiting these heritage sites, the team had also explored Anam Beach in Anambra West Local Government Area and Agulu Lake in Anaocha Local Government Area. He expressed gratitude to the Chairmen and Mayors of the Orumba South and Oyi Local Government Areas for their warm hospitality.

In welcoming the Commissioner and his team, Hon. Shedrack Azubuike, Chairman/Mayor of Orumba South LGA, and Dr. Emmanuel Nweke, Chairman/Mayor of Oyi LGA, praised Governor Soludo for his commendable work throughout the state. They acknowledged that the development of these heritage sites will not only attract an influx of tourists but will also promote businesses in the area, create job opportunities for local communities, and foster overall development.

The five sites under consideration are Agulu Lake, Awka City Park, Anam Beach, Ogba Cave and Waterfall, and Ogbunike Cave.

Ogwo is the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

WOMEN ARISE FOR CHANGE INITIATIVE CALLS FOR REOPENING OF DRUGS MARKET, ADJOINING MARKETS BY NAFDAC

By Juliana Nwachukwu/Nkiru Anakor/Ngozi Okoli :

Women Arise For Change Initiative has appealed to National Agency For Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to out of patriotism, socioeconomic, justice and love for humanity reopen the shutdown Onitsha Drugs Market and other affected markets over allegedly discovery of fake, unwholesome, substandard ,adulterated and expired drugs.

This was contained in a press statement issued to newsmen and endorsed by Evangelist Vincent Ezekwueme and Pastor Chinyere Amah, Chairman and Secretary respectfully tagged “Whatever that affects one directly affects all indirectly” condemns with great disdain unconscionable, despicable and inhuman buying and selling of fake and adulterated drugs and support efforts towards it’s eradication in accordance with the law.

“We commend relentless efforts of NAFDAC in ridding the country of fake, substandard and adulterated drugs that have precipitated a lot of untimely death and health hazards to citizens.

“The worst injustice is for the just to suffer for the crimes and impunity of the unjust.

“We advice those dealing with such illicit drugs to repent and voluntarily surrender the drugs to NAFDAC for destructions. NAFDAC should also ensure that only shops or business premises of those selling substandard drugs are searched and punished.

“It is pertinent to note that outright closure of the markets affects adversely those doing legitimate businesses, their customers, families and dependents. It will be a step in the right direction for NAFDAC to do the needful and reopen the markets and commence discreet and indepth investigation of those selling substandard drugs in the markets and that only those found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of law.

“We equally appeal to NAFDAC to think about plights, predicaments and sufferings of affected traders and their dependents as most of them are breadwinners and their children are now out of school due to inability of their parents to pay school fees as a result of closure of the markets.

“It is correct to state that feeding becomes difficult task for most of the affected families as a result of paucity of funds following closure of their only source of livelihood. We passionately appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as father of the nation and democrat to show empathy for plights, predicaments and sufferings of affected traders by ordering for immediate reopening of closed markets and adequate compensation to innocent traders affected by the closure as well drugs approved by NAFDAC that were confiscated.

“It is of prime importance to note that reopening of the markets will save many lives as prizes of drugs has skyrocketed and many drugs are now very scarce due to drugs market closure. It is very unfortunate that the closure was extended to other Markets unconnected with selling of drugs,like Plumbing Material Market, Provision Market Front Line,Tools and Allied Market,Dolmer Market,Part of Timber Market etc.

“Their reopening will certainly bring succour and relief to the affected traders and their families because justice could only be served when only the culprits suffer and innocent ones goes scout free,” the group said.

* Nwachukwu,  Anakor and Okoli are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

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