Capt. Casmir Nwafor, the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) party candidate for Orumba North Local Government Chairmanship election, has outlined his top priorities if elected into office on Sept. 28. Alongside his deputy, Sir Ifesinachi Onwurah, Capt. Nwafor aims to focus on Security, Education and Agriculture.
Capt. Nwafor and his deputy said this at Alex Ekwueme Civic Center Oko, where APGA celebrated and marked the end of a successful ward tour and campaign period on Sept. 26.
He emphasized the importance of grassroots governance, urging the people of Orumba North to vote for him and promising that they will enjoy the dividends of democracy.
According to him, Education and Security will be our top priority in Orumba North. Security of lives and property has become a major challenge and concern in the area as well as the dilapidated primary school buildings.
“Primary school education is the responsibility of the local government council. Some primary schools we visited during my tenure as the transition committee chairman were in a very bad state and lack the necessary amenities for a conducive learning environment and proper training of the pupils.
“In Agriculture, we want to transform Orumba North into the state’s food basket by supporting and intervening in agricultural communities like Ndiokpaleke, Ndiukwuenu Ndiokolo, Ndiokpaleze, Okpeze, and Amaetiti.”
The Orumba North APGA Chairman, Mr. Cyril Nwobu, also expressed support for Capt. Nwafor, citing the party’s successful campaign and endorsement from the 16 communities in the local government area.
“Through the efforts of the councilors and ward chairmen, we have campaigned in the different communities of Orumba North and without doubt, the candidacy of Casmir Nwafor and his deputy is fully endorsed by the sixteen communities that make up Orumba North local government area.”
“Orumba North is part of the Soludo government and we have benefitted immensely from his administration. Capt. Nwafor is a party man and man of the people. We are giving him our support and vote because we that he will do well,” he said.
*Chioma and Charity are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
Following the resumption of Primary and Post Primary Schools in the state for the 2024/2025 academic session,the press visited some schools to monitor the resumption exercise.
A visit to St.Patrick’s College Awka a mission institution, speaks volumes of order,discipline and commitment to duty by the school management.
The Manager/Principal of the College, Reverend Father Paschal Udo announced that the institution met all requirements in terms of their pre resumption meeting for teachers, orientation exercises for the new intakes in the school, and their parents,and resumption tests for the students.
In terms of challenges facing the College,Father Udo listed the economic challenges facing the country and grappling with stabilizing the new intakes.
He announced that the College took the 1st position in the state this year in the German/Chinese languages competition organized by the Stelated-Bilateral Educational Consultancy, a foreign Firm based in Nigeria.
The Manager charged the teachers to aim at more academic excellence and moral probity to advance the academic and intellectual property of the students and the standard of the College.
At the Kenneth Dike Memorial Secondary School Awka, the Principal of the college Mrs. Catherine Onwurah reported an impressive turnout of teachers and students on the day of resumption and and the conduction of resumption tests for the students.
She mentioned some of the needs of the college to include provision of functional laboratories,security, dilapidated Sumo for water reticulation etc.
The principal commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for posting 15 teachers to the school.
A visit to the Hez- Dike Secondary School Awka was fruitful as the Principal Mr.Mishael Okoye told the press that all teachers and over 85% of the students were present during the resumption of the school.
Mr. Okoye described the school as an institution that produces quality education but needs adequate funds to run its affairs.
He described governor Soludo as an educational friendly governor.
The press also visited the National Secondary school Awka where students were seen in their traditional attire portraying the Igbo cultural heritage.
The Principal of the College Mr.Christian Ebe told the press that teachers and students resumption presence on the school’s resumption day was appreciable and resumption tests held.
Diocese on the Niger, Anglican Communion, Anambra State has again made a groundbreaking stride in the annals of higher education in Nigeria, floating another tertiary institution in less than one year she founded the University on the Niger, (UNINIGER), Umunya.
The latest institution, Gozie Anyachebelu Polytechnic (GOZPOLY), with its permanent site at Oraukwu in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state has its take-off campus in Onitsha.
The Diocesan Bishop, Rt Rev Dr Owen Nwokolo, broke the news of the new institution at the All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha, today, Sunday, September 15, 2024 during the collation and installation of archdeacons and canons of the diocese.
According to the bishop, the polytechnic has commenced offer of admission to legibly qualified candidates, adding that the school would start academic activities in a few weeks time.
He described the institution as a citadel of learning where innovation, excellence and character were guiding principle.
“We are committed to empowering you with the knowledge, skills and values necessary for you to succeed in your chosen career, and which will ultimately enable you to make a positive impact in society”, he assured
While encouraging parents and guardians to avail themselves the opportunity of enrolling their children and wards into the institution, Bishop Nwokolo quipped, “We sincerely urge you to encourage your children and wards to embrace the opportunities that now lie ahead.
Rector of the polytechnic, Mrs Hellen Abonye, while clarifying issues concerning the institution, appealled to parents and guardians to help their children and wards explore their passions, develop their skills, and become part of the vibrant polytechnic community.
She listed the following accredited Ordinary National Diploma (OND) as offered by the institution:
* Computer Engineering,
* Computer Science and
* Library and information Science, assuring that with time more courses would be added.
Earier in his sermon during the preceding church service, a guest preacher, the Rector, Anglican Church of the Holy Spirit, Bronx, New York, Ven Dave Nwanekpe advised the new archdeacons and canons to always show love and unity in their ministries.
He reminded them of what he called the enormity of their responsibility, encouraging them to continuously strive to live out their christian life and objectively express their ministerial callings.
“You must fear God not man. You are called for a higher responsibility for which you should not allow the challenges of the 21st century Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology detract you from your ministerial focus,” he stated.
Nwanekpe who was the retreatant to the collated admonished them that among other things they should love God and take love, unity and humility as their watchwords.
Bishop Nwokolo had while collating the ministers subjected them to various oaths of allegiance during which rites they pledged to be obedient to Christ and to the Church, confessing not being members of secret cults nor being of questionable moral character.
The twelve new Canons include: Rev Canon Emmanuel Eze, Rev Barr Oscar Akabuogu, Rev. Canon Chukwudi Okafor, Rev.Canon Onyeka Onuzulike, Rev Canon Onyebuchi Emefo, Rev Canon Chidi Okonkwu and Rev Canon Maxwell Njoku.
The Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, in partnership with NATESA Consulting Ltd, hosted a stunning maiden Photography exhibition with the theme “The Forgotten Country” at the International Convention Center (ICC) in Awka.
The groundbreaking event showcased various photographs captured by talented photographers from the Southeastern region and a short documentary about the economic impact of the Nigeria-Biafra civil war on the southeastern region before and after the conflict.
While declaring the event open, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji highlighted that photography serves as a creative economic platform that offers connectivity and revenue. He emphasized that a single photo can tell numerous stories about an event.
Mr. Onyenji stated that the state governor, Prof Charles Soludo, has created a supportive environment for people to showcase their talents, conduct business, and relax and the ministry is open to partnerships that will enhance the state’s reputation.
He said; “This government is youth-friendly and has initiated a program for the youth to learn skills under the ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ program. Additionally, He has approved free training for Anambra youths in film production under the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism which will offer a lot of opportunities for our youths in the film industry.
“The governor is constructing a state-of-the-art Solution Fun City, which will be a mega entertainment hub in the state and the Solution Neighbourhood Leisure Park is being built at the defunct National Light Complex for relaxation and recreational purposes.
“Furthermore, the Igboukwu Museum, currently undergoing refurbishment, is expected to be ready before Christmas. It will be available for historians and archaeologists to utilize for research purposes,” he stated.
The commissioner appealed to the state comedians and content creators to positively market the state to attract investors.
In his lecture on “Exploring Diverse Revenue Streams Beyond Print Sales: Licensing and Stock Photography,” the keynote speaker, Mr. Kelechi Amadi-Obi, emphasized the challenges of excelling as an artist, particularly in the field of photography. He highlighted the need for patience and hard work to succeed.
Mr. Amadi-Obi also emphasized the significant role of photographers in capturing and sharing events and places. He noted that photographers provide the first impression of a location which helps to influence its patronage.
“For instance, when I googled Lagos on the internet, I saw a picture of a man carrying a child on his neck in a flood. This kind of impression doesn’t give Lagos a good image out there. However, when I searched for Dubai, I saw beautiful pictures that would prompt you to visit the place.
“So, the images you create of your state matter a lot. Make sure to present your state in a positive light to attract attention and make progress for you,”
He advised the photographers to improve their work by studying other notable photographers’ works, staying focused, comparing their work with the best in the world, and believing in themselves.
In her welcoming address, Augusta Nnadi, the co-founder of NATESA Consulting Ltd, expressed gratitude to everyone for attending the event. She emphasized that their firm is a Public Relations and Strategic Communication firm aimed at rebranding the entire Southeast as the powerhouse of Nigeria in photography. She highlighted that the Southeast possesses all the potential it needs to succeed.
“We chose the theme “The Forgotten Country” not to depict the strife, pain, tears, and hunger that affected the southeastern region during the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War of 1967-1970, but to showcase a country that thrived and endured despite the painful war.
“This is our first open photography exhibition, featuring photographs by talented young individuals from the Southeast region. We encourage more people to get involved in this trade and showcase the beauty of the Southeast, which we believe can be the economic powerhouse of Nigeria,” she stated.
The Executive Director of the Center for Memories, Mazi Iheanyi Igboko, who was represented by the Program Officer, Nnamani Ifeoma, commended the organizers for initiating such valuable projects. He mentioned that their organization is located in Enugu State and focuses on recording, preserving, and presenting the significant memories, narratives, and history of the Igbo people.
“We are open to collaborating with individuals or organizations interested in portraying Igbo stories through photography. Photography is an art that holds the ability to capture moments and document the stories of each generation.”
* Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Traditional Prime Minister of Abagana Community, Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze,has described New Yam Festival as one of the cardinal means of safeguarding the rich cultural heritage of Ndigbo
Speaking with newsmen at his country home while celebrating the new yam festival, he described it as capable of uniting the Igbos.
While calling for its preservation, he urged Ndigbo to always engage in acts capable of projecting their rich cultural heritage before the international community.
He, then, reminded Ndigbo that culture as people’s way of life, should always be used in bringing peace and unity for enhanced development .
Dr Anakwenze, emphasized the need for Ndigbo to reinvent the true Igbo spirit by embracing agriculture to enable them survive the prevailing era of crisis food crisis and Food insecurity in the nation.
While affirming that yam is the king of all crops, he pointed out the importance of agriculture to the growth of the society and encouraged youths to take agriculture seriously.
The event attracted Community Leaders including the Traditional Ruler of the community,Igwe Mbamalu Okeke,friends and well wishers.
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed profound sorrow over the painful passing of Ms. Onyeka Onwenu, MFR, a beloved Nigerian music icon and distinguished daughter of Ndigbo, as she died on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the age of 72.
In his condolence message, Governor Soludo commiserated with her family and the Nigerian music industry as he described Ms. Onwenu as an unforgettable, beautiful beacon of joy and inspiration, widely recognised for her remarkable contributions to music and film.
The Governor recalled that the deceased, who was affectionately known as the “Elegant Stallion,” began her illustrious music career in the 1980s. Her debut album, “For the Love of You,” released in 1981, marked the beginning of a career that would see her produce numerous albums and timeless hits, including the iconic “One Love.”
Beyond her musical achievements, she also made significant strides in Nollywood, earning accolades for her performances and her commitment to the arts.
In addition to her entertainment career, Ms. Onwenu was a dedicated social activist and politician, using her platform to advocate for positive change and uplift her community.
Her legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and steadfast commitment to the betterment of society, making her an irreplaceable figure in the hearts of many.
Governor Soludo, therefore, extends his most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Onyeka Onwenu and all those who were touched by her artistry and spirit. He prays that her soul rests in peace and that her contributions to music and society continue to inspire future generations.
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) and BredHub UBTech have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics.
The signing ceremony, held on Tuesday, marked a significant step forward in fostering academic collaboration within the state.
The event which brought together key stakeholders from academia, the tech sector, and the government, highlighted commitment to advancing cutting-edge technology and research capabilities.
BredHub UBTech, a leading AI and robotics company, will work closely with COOU to establish state-of-the-art facilities and certificate programs aimed at enhancing research, development, and educational opportunities in AI and robotics in the state.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Kate Omenugha, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of COOU, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “This collaboration with BredHub UBTech is a major milestone for our university and our dear state. It aligns perfectly with our mission to provide world-class education and to be at the forefront of technological advancement,” she said.
BredHub UBTech’s CEO, Michael Ahamefula, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the mutual benefits of the partnership. “By joining forces with COOU, we aim to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and equips the next generation of tech leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed,” he remarked.
Izuchukwu Mojekwu, the Executive Director of Africa Operations at BredHub UBTech, emphasized their commitment to providing a comprehensive learning experience that will propel students forward. “In four years, this school will be producing global leaders in AI and Robotics,” he added.
The MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, while congratulating the university management and partners, stated, “It is no coincidence that we are here to launch something phenomenal and revolutionary, where students will have access to real-time live robots and AI, and understand this disruptive technology.
He explained that throughout the revolutions in Silicon Valley and other top tech capitals worldwide, the university system has played and continues to play a crucial role. We hope that with this MOU ceremony, COOU will fulfill its role in synergizing the Anambra tech tribe that the governor envisions. As a government, we will continue to support the excellent work you are doing,” he concluded.
Under the visionary leadership of Governor Soludo, who continues to prioritize innovation and technological development, the COOU-BredHub UBTech partnership stands as a beacon of progress and a model for future collaborations.
Highlights of the event included a visit to COOU’s AI/Robotics Laboratory, where students and management experienced the robots and related materials firsthand (MOI).
Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State “
The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has concluded plans to commence the metering of customers served by “Band A” feeders across its network through its mobile MAP metering initiative.
The exercise which is expected to kick off in Enugu on Tuesday, June 11th, 2024, will focus on EEDC customers served by “Band A” feeders under its Ogui, Awkunanaw, and Abakpa districts.
The Head, Corporate Communications, EEDC. Mr. Emeka Ezeh, who made this known through a press statement, said the Mobile MAP metering approach is part of efforts by EEDC to ensure that customers under service “Band A” across its network are metered within 48 hours.
According to him, the company adopted this approach to ensure that the affected customers who enjoy minimum daily availability of 20 hours can begin to manage their energy consumption and pay for what they consume.
EEDC customers under Awkunanaw district, served by Topland 11KV, Gariki 11KV, Amaechi 33KV, and UNEC 11KV feeders are to visit the EEDC Service Center at Mayor Bus Stop, Agbani Road.
In the same vein, customers under Ogui District, served by New Haven 11KV, Abakaliki Road, 11KV, Power House 11KV, Chime Avenue 11KV, Onitsha Road 11KV, and Golf 11KV feeders, are to visit EEDC Ogui District office at Station Road, Enugu; while customers under Abakpa District served by Abakpa 3 11KV, Dhamija 11KV, Nowas 11KV, and Ugwuogo 33KV feeders are to visit Trans Ekulu Service Center.
Customers are expected to visit the mentioned locations with a valid form of identification (either Drivers License, Voters Card, NIN or International Passport) and a copy of their bills. Officials of EEDC will assist them with the MAP application process and installation of the meter will be made once payment is confirmed.
The MAP metering program allows customers to pay and get metered and reimbursed with the value of the cost of meter through energy over a period.
Ezeh affirmed that gradually, the exercise will be extended to other Band A feeders across EEDC franchise area.
Unmetered customers, especially those under service “Band A” are urged to take advantage of this program and get metered, bearing in mind that they will be reimbursed with the value of the cost of the meter through energy over a period.
This exercise is carried out by EEDC in conjunction with its MAPs (Meter Asset Providers) – MOJEC International Limited and Advanced Energy Management Services (AEMS).
MAP is a metering intervention designed and approved by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to close the existing metering gap in the power sector.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Professor Kate Omenugha
has said that promoting peace and harmony is a form of evangelism, spreading love, kindness, and compassion.
Professor Omenugha stated this while delivering her paper, ‘Culture of Peace’, during the Annual Peace Advocate and Convention and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Peace and Leadership Centre’s multi-purpose building project, held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Awka.
According to Prof Omenugha, a culture of peace can only be achieved through the dedicated efforts of individuals. She emphasized that it requires a collective commitment, starting with one person and spreading to the entire society.
The former Commissioner for Basic Education stressed that conflict and lack of understanding would not bring peace but would only result to disorderliness in both families, society and the nation, adding that peace is paramount in everyone’s life.
She further noted that the absence of a culture of peace is a root cause of global crises. She emphasized that failing to cultivate peace has far-reaching consequences, particularly in Nigeria, where neglecting the law has led to more harm than good. This neglect, she stressed, has a profound impact on youth development, infrastructure, health, and the overall social wellbeing of young people, perpetuating cycles of suffering and hindering progress.
Professor Omenugha emphasized that children, the future leaders of tomorrow, deserve attention and investment for positive change. However, parents often prioritize exam success over genuine education, promoting malpractice and special centers.
She however, warned that a good citizen of the nation must endeavour to take part and be law abiding to make things work perfectly for the government and avoid any form of social vices.
She urged citizens to take responsibility, be law-abiding, and shun social vices to support the government. To embrace peace, she advocated for creating a society with justice and equity, where inter-ethnic dialogue, education, and responsible media promotion of peace are prioritized.
“For peace to exist we need to create a society where there is justice and equity.”
She stressed the importance of proactive justice, conscious language usage, and avoiding inflammatory words that can spark violence or problems. By working together, we can establish peace and foster a better future.
* Njaka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
The Anambra State Sports Development Commission in collaboration with Ministry of Education has flagged off 2024 Anambra School Sports Festival at the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) hall, Awka.
The Anambra Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo represented by the Anambra Chief of Staff, Chief Ernest Ezeajughi, enjoined students to participate actively in sports that will lead them to national and international sports competition.
“Anambra State Solution Initiative (ANSSI) is the vehicle with which Mr Governor is using to revolutionise sports in the State within two years of his administration, the glory of Anambra Sports is returning at an encouraging speed.”
In his speech, the Chairman, Anambra Sports Development Commission, Mr Patrick-Estate Onyedum stressed that in 2023, about 600 primary and secondary schools registered and participated in the sports festival which yielded fruitful results.
Mr Onyedum promised to support schools that performed excellently well with sports facilities, commending students on Karate, Taekwondo, beach volleyball champions.
Also, the Commissioner for Youth Empowerment and Development, Mr Patrick Agha Mba congratulated the Governor for his determination, and passion toward sports development in the State.
He noted that Sports is the third pillar of Gov. Soludo’s administration, which involved human capital development, health and sports.
Eight Schools across Anambra attended the event.
*Nonyelum is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
