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‎PUBLIC DRINKING AMONG WOMEN: BALANCING PERSONAL FREEDOM WITH FAMILY VALUES

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‎By Osegbue Patricia
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‎The decision to consume alcohol is a personal one and, when done responsibly, is entirely lawful. However, beyond the issue of legality lies the broader question of personal responsibility, moderation, and the values that help shape a healthy society.
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‎In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of women openly consuming alcohol at social events, entertainment venues, and other public gatherings. In many instances, these occasions are captured on cameras and shared widely through social media and live-streaming platforms.
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‎While there is nothing inherently wrong with responsible alcohol consumption, the growing culture of excessive public drinking has generated concern among parents, religious leaders, and other community stakeholders.
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‎One of the primary concerns is personal safety. Public environments where alcohol is consumed may expose intoxicated individuals to greater risks of harassment, exploitation, assault, or other situations that could have serious consequences. Excessive alcohol intake can impair judgment, making people more vulnerable to poor decisions and unsafe circumstances.
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‎Another issue relates to reputation in the digital age. Images and videos shared online can spread rapidly and remain accessible for years, potentially influencing personal relationships, career prospects, and public perception. Although individuals should not be unfairly judged based on isolated moments, public conduct often shapes how others perceive them.
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‎There are also concerns about the influence of adult behaviour on younger generations. Many believe that parents, guardians, and community leaders have a responsibility to model moderation, self-respect, and responsible conduct. Positive examples can reinforce healthy values, while negative ones may contribute to behaviours that weaken social and family standards.
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‎Some commentators have also linked changing social habits to broader concerns about family stability and the increasing number of single-parent households. While these challenges are driven by multiple factors including economic hardship, marital conflicts, incompatibility, and personal choices they highlight the importance of promoting responsible lifestyles and strengthening family values.
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‎The conversation is not about denying anyone the freedom to make lawful choices. Rather, it is a call for moderation, self-discipline, and a greater awareness of the potential consequences that personal decisions may have on individual well-being, family life, and society as a whole. As society continues to evolve, fostering responsible living, mutual respect, and values that strengthen families remains essential to building safer and more cohesive communities.
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‎Osegbue Patricia is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT THREATENS SANCTIONS AGAINST ARCHITECTS OVER BUILDING REGULATION VIOLATIONS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe

The Anambra State Government has warned that architects who persist in submitting building plans that violate the state’s physical planning regulations may face disciplinary action, including petitions to their professional regulatory body.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, issued the warning in a statement on Aug. 4, expressing concern over what he described as widespread non-compliance with the state’s physical planning laws.

According to the commissioner, a review of more than 200 building permit applications received since he assumed office revealed that many failed to meet the requirements of the Anambra State Physical Planning Law, particularly the provisions governing setbacks and permissible building coverage.

Barr. Ojukwu noted that the level of non-compliance was disturbing, considering that architects are professionally trained and licensed to design buildings in line with approved planning standards.

He observed that some of the building plans submitted proposed structures covering as much as 90 per cent of the available land space, leaving little or no provision for essential facilities such as parking spaces and adequate setbacks.

“The most common violations identified are the disregard for setback requirements and excessive building coverage. It is unacceptable for building designs to occupy almost the entire plot, leaving no room for parking or proper environmental planning,” he said.

The commissioner urged architects to uphold the ethics of their profession by ensuring that all building plans submitted for approval comply fully with the state’s physical planning regulations.

He warned that continued disregard for the law would compel the ministry to petition the Disciplinary Committee of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) to take appropriate action against offending professionals, including possible blacklisting.

Barr. Ojukwu reaffirmed the commitment of the Soludo administration to orderly urban development, stressing that strict compliance with physical planning regulations is essential to creating safe, functional and sustainable cities across Anambra State.

He called on all built environment professionals to support the government’s efforts by adhering to approved standards and promoting responsible urban development.

Chukwuka Ugokwe is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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‎WORLD LUNG CANCER DAY 2026: EXPERTS ADVOCATE EARLY DETECTION, STRONGER PATIENT SUPPORT

By Florence Okpeti
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‎The global community marked World Lung Cancer Day on August 1 with renewed calls for early detection, equitable access to screening, and stronger support systems for people living with lung cancer and their caregivers.
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‎The 2026 theme, “Together Through Lung Cancer,” highlights the importance of unity, hope, and resilience in the fight against the disease. It encourages patients, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare professionals to build supportive networks through community groups, WhatsApp platforms, and other online resources.
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‎Established in 2012, World Lung Cancer Day raises awareness about one of the world’s deadliest cancers. According to global estimates, lung cancer claimed about 1.8 million lives in 2022, while 2.5 million new cases were diagnosed during the same year.
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‎Health experts say many people remain unaware of the long-term physical, emotional, and psychological impact of the disease. As a result, this year’s campaign focuses on providing accessible, patient-centred information to bridge knowledge gaps and improve public understanding.
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‎The Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) called for wider access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, noting that the screening method can detect lung cancer at an earlier and more treatable stage. According to the organisation, early diagnosis can improve the five-year survival rate from 27 per cent to 64 per cent.
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‎Despite its proven effectiveness, access to lung cancer screening remains uneven due to high costs, limited healthcare facilities, geographical barriers, and low public awareness, leaving many high-risk individuals without timely diagnosis.
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‎The observance also highlights ongoing research efforts aimed at improving treatment options and survival outcomes. Health advocates say sustained investment in research is essential to advancing the fight against lung cancer.
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As part of the campaign, supporters around the world are encouraged to share posters and photographs on social media using the Know Lung Cancer initiative to promote awareness and demonstrate solidarity with patients and survivors.

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‎In Nigeria, where access to advanced screening services remains limited, health advocates continue to emphasise the importance of recognising early symptoms, avoiding tobacco use, and strengthening healthcare infrastructure to reduce the burden of the disease.
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‎This year’s celebration, serves as a reminder that greater awareness, expanded screening programmes, continued research, and stronger community support are key to improving outcomes and offering hope to millions affected by lung cancer worldwide.
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‎Florence Okpeti is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK 2026: PRIORITISING BREASTFEEDING THROUGH SUSTAINABLE SUPPORT SYSTEMS

By Lilian Ezejiegu

World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from Aug. 1 to Aug. 7, draws global attention to the importance of breastfeeding as the foundation of infant nutrition and highlights the need for sustainable support systems that enable mothers to breastfeed successfully.

The 2026 theme, “Prioritise Breastfeeding, Create Sustainable Support Systems,” reinforces the shared responsibility of governments, employers, healthcare providers, families and communities in creating environments that protect, promote and support breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding provides infants with the ideal balance of nutrients required for healthy growth and development. It strengthens immunity, promotes brain development, protects against infections and lays a solid foundation for lifelong health and wellbeing.

For mothers, breastfeeding offers significant health benefits. It aids recovery after childbirth, strengthens the mother child bond and lowers the risk of certain cancers and other health conditions.

Despite these proven benefits, many women continue to face barriers to exclusive breastfeeding. Short maternity leave, workplace demands, inadequate family and healthcare support, as well as persistent misconceptions, often make it difficult for mothers to breastfeed exclusively for the recommended period.

Health experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of safe and nutritious complementary foods while breastfeeding continues for up to two years or beyond.

Achieving this goal requires collective action. Governments must implement supportive policies, employers should provide breastfeeding friendly workplaces, healthcare professionals must offer accurate guidance, while families and communities should encourage and support nursing mothers without stigma or discrimination.

In Nigeria, strengthening breastfeeding practices remains essential to reducing infant malnutrition, preventable childhood illnesses and deaths. Sustained public awareness, improved maternal and child healthcare services, and family friendly policies will help build healthier families and more resilient communities.

As the world marks World Breastfeeding Week 2026, stakeholders must renew their commitment to prioritising breastfeeding by creating sustainable support systems that empower mothers and give every child the healthiest possible start in life.

Lilian Ezejiegu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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ANAMBRA POLICE, POCACOV RALLY STAKEHOLDERS AGAINST CULTISM, APPROVE SCHOOL CLUBS TO BOOST PREVENTIVE POLICING

By Chizoba Njaka
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‎The Anambra State Police Command, in collaboration with the Inspector-General of Police’s Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), has intensified efforts to combat cultism and other social vices through a stakeholders’ interactive session held on July 30, at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka.
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‎The engagement, led by the National Coordinator of POCACOV, SP Orvenonne Ikwen, formed part of ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening preventive policing through strategic partnerships, youth engagement, and active community participation.
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‎The event brought together government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, security agencies, educational institutions, civil society organisations, community leaders, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on sustainable strategies for tackling cultism, substance abuse, cybercrime, and other emerging social vices.
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‎Addressing participants, SP Ikwen reaffirmed the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to preventive policing as a proactive approach to crime reduction by addressing its root causes through advocacy, mentorship, value reorientation, and community collaboration. She also approved the establishment of POCACOV Clubs in schools across Anambra State to promote positive values and discourage youths from engaging in criminal activities.
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‎She urged stakeholders to take ownership of the campaign by mentoring young people, promoting responsible citizenship, and creating opportunities that would steer them toward productive and lawful pursuits.
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‎Speaking on behalf of the Anambra State Police Command, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, welcomed participants and stressed that effective security is a collective responsibility that requires the active involvement of every segment of society.
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‎He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with communities in promoting peace, safety, and sustainable development across the state.
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‎The interactive session featured goodwill messages from representatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, women leaders, and other stakeholders. Discussions focused on practical measures to prevent youth involvement in crime, build resilient communities, and deepen cooperation between the police and the public.
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‎A highlight of the event was the presentation of gifts to the Inspector-General of Police by the Anambra State Town Unions Council Youth Wing (ASTUC Youth), led by Comrade Ken Okoli, as a symbolic demonstration of support and acceptance of the POCACOV initiative in the state.
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‎The Anambra State Police Command expressed appreciation to all stakeholders who participated in the programme and reiterated its commitment to supporting the POCACOV initiative in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s vision of building a safer and more secure society through preventive policing.
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‎Chizoba Njaka is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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WOMEN GROUP ADVOCATES PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT AS POCACOV PLANS ANTI-CRIME APP

By Ruth Orji

The President of the Ultimate Business Women and Farmers Association of Nigeria (UBWFAN), Mrs. Nkiru Nwagbo, has urged parents to lead anti-cultism campaigns to curb crime among children and youths.

She made the call during the launch of the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) on July 30, at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka, describing parental guidance as essential to nation-building.

Mrs. Nwagbo observed that mothers often bear the consequences of juvenile delinquency, stressing that proper moral upbringing, discipline and Godly values remain the foundation for raising responsible and productive citizens.

She also encouraged fathers to exercise emotional intelligence and restraint during family conflicts, noting that domestic violence contributes to raising aggressive children and fuels anti-social behaviour within communities.
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, SP Orvenonne Ikwen reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to preventive policing, emphasizing early intervention, proper child upbringing and community participation in crime prevention.

She warned against ignoring minor offences at home, explaining that unchecked misconduct often develops into serious criminal activities, including cultism, fraud and other social vices affecting society.
SP Ikwen disclosed that POCACOV would soon launch a mobile application to enable citizens report criminal activities anonymously, while promoting the campaign slogan, “When you see something, say something.”

She explained that the initiative seeks to strengthen community policing, build trust between citizens and security agencies, while encouraging public ownership of security through active collaboration with law enforcement authorities.

Also speaking, President of the Anambra State Town Unions Council Youth Wing (ASTUC Youth), Mr. Ken Okoli, advocated POCACOV clubs in schools and stronger collaboration among families, schools and communities to promote shared values and responsible citizenship.

Ruth is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation.

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NEWS COMMENTARY ON WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

By Chizoba Anazonwu

Every year on July 30, the world observes the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, a United Nations-designated day aimed at raising awareness about human trafficking, protecting victims and strengthening global efforts to combat this grave violation of human rights.

The 2026 theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam,” draws attention to the growing threat of online scam operations, where unsuspecting people are deceived with fake job offers, fraudulent recruitment schemes and promises of better opportunities, only to be exploited and, in many cases, forced into cyber-enabled criminal activities.

In Nigeria, human trafficking remains a major concern, particularly among women, children and young people who are often lured by false promises of employment, education, or a better life abroad. Addressing this challenge requires effective law enforcement, sustained public awareness and the active collaboration of governments, communities, families, and relevant institutions.

In Anambra State, the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo continues to promote policies that empower young people through education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and improved economic opportunities. These investments, alongside the state’s commitment to security and good governance, help reduce the vulnerabilities that traffickers often exploit.

Nevertheless, the fight against human trafficking cannot be left to government alone. Parents and guardians must carefully verify employment and travel opportunities presented to their children. Community leaders should promptly report suspicious activities, while schools, religious institutions and the media must continue to educate young people on the dangers of human trafficking, unsafe migration, and online scams. Citizens also have a responsibility to support law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information.

As the world commemorates this year’s observance, the message is clear: every person deserves dignity, freedom, and protection from exploitation. By preventing trafficking, protecting victims, and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice, Nigeria can build safer communities where every individual has the opportunity to live, work, and thrive without fear.

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is a reminder that safeguarding human dignity is a shared responsibility. Together, through vigilance, awareness, and collective action, society can help end human trafficking and give hope to those most at risk.

Chizoba Anazonwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra Statr

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NEWS COMMENTARY ON WORLD HEAD AND NECK CANCER DAY

By Chizoba Anazonwu

World Head and Neck Cancer Day is observed annually to raise awareness about cancers affecting the mouth, throat, voice box, nose, sinuses and other parts of the head and neck. The observance highlights the importance of prevention, early detection and timely treatment, which remain the most effective ways to improve survival and reduce the burden of the disease.

Health experts advise that persistent mouth ulcers, unexplained swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, persistent hoarseness or unusual bleeding from the mouth or nose should never be ignored. Early medical evaluation can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.

Many cases of head and neck cancer are associated with tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and certain viral infections. Delayed diagnosis often reduces the chances of successful treatment, underscoring the need for regular health checks and increased public awareness.

In Anambra State, the observance aligns with the ongoing efforts of the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, to strengthen the healthcare system through investments in primary healthcare, improved access to health services, capacity building for healthcare workers and sustained public health awareness campaigns.

The state’s emphasis on preventive healthcare encourages residents to seek medical attention promptly whenever they notice unusual symptoms. Strengthening primary healthcare services and promoting health education at the community level can help facilitate earlier diagnosis and improve health outcomes.

World Head and Neck Cancer Day serves as a reminder that reducing the impact of cancer requires collective action. Governments, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, the media, communities and individuals all have important roles to play in promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting early detection and ensuring access to quality healthcare.

As the world marks this year’s observance, residents of Anambra State are encouraged to avoid tobacco products, limit alcohol consumption, maintain good oral hygiene and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms such as persistent mouth sores, neck lumps, difficulty swallowing or prolonged hoarseness develop.

Early diagnosis saves lives. By embracing healthy habits, seeking timely medical care, and supporting cancer awareness initiatives, individuals can contribute to reducing the burden of head and neck cancer and building a healthier society.

Chizoba Anazonwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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NEWS COMMENTARY ON WORLD ORS DAY

By Chizoba Anazonwu

Every year on July 29, the world observes World ORS Day to raise awareness about the life saving importance of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) in preventing and treating dehydration, particularly among children affected by diarrhoeal diseases. ORS remains one of the simplest, most affordable and most effective public health interventions ever developed, saving millions of lives worldwide.

This year’s observance serves as a reminder that preventing deaths from diarrhoea depends not only on the availability of ORS but also on timely health education, early intervention and access to quality healthcare. These priorities align with the healthcare vision of the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, which continues to strengthen the state’s primary healthcare system and improve access to essential health services across Anambra State.

Through the rehabilitation and equipping of primary healthcare centres, recruitment of healthcare workers, expansion of maternal and child health programmes and community based health campaigns, the Soludo administration is improving healthcare delivery and promoting preventive care. These interventions provide opportunities for parents and caregivers to learn how to prevent dehydration, recognize the warning signs of diarrhoea and use ORS correctly before complications develop.

World ORS Day underscores the importance of complementary preventive measures such as access to safe drinking water, improved sanitation, proper hand hygiene, exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life and prompt medical attention when diarrhoea persists. Combined with ORS and zinc supplementation, as recommended by healthcare professionals, these measures can significantly reduce childhood illness and mortality.

As Anambra joins the global community in commemorating World ORS Day, residents are encouraged to keep ORS readily available at home, seek medical attention promptly when symptoms worsen and support public health initiatives aimed at protecting children and other vulnerable members of society.

Promoting the correct use of ORS and strengthening preventive healthcare remain essential steps toward building a healthier Anambra and ensuring that no child dies from preventable dehydration.

Chizoba Anazonwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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COMMENTARY ON WORLD HEPATITIS DAY 2026

By Lilian Ezejiegu

Every year on July 28, the world observes World Hepatitis Day to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and encourage greater access to prevention, testing, treatment and care. The 2026 theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” is a call to remove the barriers that continue to hinder efforts to eliminate the disease and to tackle the stigma and misinformation surrounding it.

In Anambra State, the Solution Administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has continued to place healthcare at the heart of its development agenda. Through sustained investments in primary healthcare, disease prevention, health education and improved access to quality medical services, the administration is working to build a healthier and more resilient society.

Viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C, remains a major public health concern because it often develops silently, with many people unaware they are infected until serious complications such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer occur. This makes regular screening, early diagnosis, vaccination against hepatitis B and prompt treatment essential in reducing illness and saving lives.

The Anambra State Government continues to encourage residents to know their hepatitis status, embrace preventive measures and seek appropriate medical care without delay. Increasing public awareness and expanding access to healthcare services remain critical to achieving the global goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat.

The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has also sustained community based health initiatives that promote healthy living and preventive healthcare. Her advocacy has helped bring health education and awareness closer to families and communities across the state’s 21 Local Government Areas(LGA).

The Ministry of Information and Value Reformation continues to complement these efforts through public enlightenment campaigns that encourage residents to seek accurate health information, overcome stigma, and access available healthcare services with confidence.

As the global community marks World Hepatitis Day 2026, Anambra State reaffirms its commitment to strengthening healthcare systems, promoting disease prevention and ensuring that every resident has access to quality healthcare. Through collective action, increased awareness and sustained investment in the health sector, the state remains on course to build a healthier future for all.

Lilian Ezejiegu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State