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ISI AGU: MORE THAN FASHION, A LASTING SYMBOL OF IGBO IDENTITY AND HERITAGE

By Rita Okonkwo
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‎Across Igbo traditional marriages, title ceremonies, New Yam Festivals and other cultural gatherings in Nigeria and the diaspora, Isi Agu remains one of the most recognisable symbols of Igbo identity and heritage.
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‎Traditionally made from velvet fabric and distinguished by embroidered tiger-head designs, Isi Agu is often worn with a wrapper, the traditional red cap known as okpu ozo, and beads. Although it was once largely associated with titled men, contemporary fashion designers have adapted the attire for men, women and young people, making it a popular choice at cultural events.
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‎Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Isi Agu carries a deeper cultural significance. It serves as a visible expression of Igbo identity, reflecting the history, values and traditions of a people whose culture is also preserved through language, food, festivals, beliefs and other forms of communal life.
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‎Cultural leaders have, however, expressed concern over the growing influence of Western lifestyles and dressing, particularly among younger generations, stressing the need for deliberate efforts to preserve Igbo heritage.
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‎Speaking during the 2026 Igbo Efula Mother Tongue Day in Enugu, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief John Azuta-Mbata, described the Igbo language and culture as fundamental to the identity and pride of Ndigbo. He warned that the Igbo language was at risk of extinction and called on cultural custodians to take active steps to preserve it and transmit it to younger generations.
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‎Similarly, the Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Diaspora, Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze, urged Ndigbo to resist cultural erosion caused by excessive foreign influence. He noted that Igbo communities in the United States had established institutes to promote the teaching of Igbo language and culture through online platforms.
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‎While contemporary fashion has seen many young people combine western outfits such as suits and jeans with traditional events, the popularity of Isi Agu remains strong, particularly during major cultural celebrations. For many Igbo elders and cultural enthusiasts, wearing Isi Agu goes beyond making a fashion statement. It is a declaration of identity, a connection to ancestral roots and an expression of pride in Igbo heritage.
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‎The challenge, therefore, is not only to preserve traditional attire but to ensure that younger generations understand the cultural values and history behind what they wear. As cultural leaders continue to advocate for the preservation of Igbo language and traditions, Isi Agu remains a powerful reminder that culture can evolve with time without losing its identity.
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‎Rita Okonkwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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MEFOR REAFFIRMS ANAMBRA FREE EDUCATION, REUSABLE TEXTBOOK POLICY, WARNS ERRING SCHOOLS

‎By MaryAnn Chukwuma
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‎The Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, has reaffirmed the State Government’s free education and reusable textbook initiatives, warning erring school administrators.
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‎Dr. Mefor stated this on August 13, during a live phone-in programme, “Ask the Commissioner,” on the Anambra Broadcasting Service, ABS, Awka. He emphasised that schooling in Anambra State is free, stressing that no school should collect tuition from parents because the Governor is already funding the programme.
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‎The commissioner said Governor Chukwuma Soludo introduced free education to ease financial burdens on parents and ensure children have access to education. Dr. Mefor further explained that textbooks in Anambra State are reusable, allowing younger siblings to use textbooks previously used by their older brothers or sisters.
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‎According to him, the policy restores the practice of passing textbooks from older children to younger ones, thereby reducing unnecessary financial pressure on parents. He warned that any school insisting that students must provide brand-new textbooks despite having usable ones from older siblings would be considered to be violating government policy.
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‎The commissioner said such schools and administrators would attract appropriate sanctions, urging school authorities to comply strictly with the government’s directives on textbook reuse.
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‎He clarified that textbooks are different from workbooks, noting that while parents may purchase workbooks for their children, textbooks should be reused repeatedly under the State’s policy.
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‎Dr. Mefor urged parents to be vigilant and report schools violating the directives, stressing that the policies are designed to make education more affordable and accessible across Anambra State.
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‎MaryAnn Chukwuma is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, and Anambra State
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INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY: CELEBRATING YOUNG PEOPLE, THEIR VOICES AND INNOVATION

By Florence Okpeti

International Youth Day is observed annually on Aug. 12 to recognise the contributions of young people to society and highlight their role in addressing global challenges.

The observance provides an opportunity for young people, governments, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to reflect on issues affecting the youth and promote their meaningful participation in development.

The 2026 observance highlights the role of young people in climate action and innovation, recognising their growing contributions to environmental advocacy and the development of sustainable solutions to climate-related challenges.

Across the world, young people are increasingly involved in grassroots environmental campaigns, technology-driven initiatives and advocacy promoting renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and other environmentally sustainable practices.

Educational institutions have also continued to provide platforms for young people to acquire skills in entrepreneurship, digital literacy and civic engagement, helping to prepare them for an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.

Technology has further expanded opportunities for youth collaboration, with virtual conferences and digital platforms enabling young leaders from different parts of the world to exchange ideas and develop solutions to common challenges.

Cultural activities, including music, art exhibitions and poetry performances, have also featured in youth focused celebrations, providing opportunities for young people to express themselves and use creative arts to promote social awareness and positive change.

Despite the celebrations, International Youth Day also draws attention to persistent challenges confronting young people, including unemployment, inequality and limited access to quality education and economic opportunities, particularly in developing countries.

Governments, development partners and other stakeholders are therefore expected to strengthen investment in education, healthcare, skills development and job creation, while creating more opportunities for young people to participate in decision making.

The observance serves as a reminder that young people are not merely beneficiaries of development but important partners in building more sustainable, inclusive and prosperous societies.

Florence Okpeti is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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COMMENTARY ON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY: CELEBRATING THE POWER OF YOUNG PEOPLE

By Lilian Ezejiegu

Every year on August 12, the world celebrates International Youth Day, a special occasion that recognizes the important contributions young people make to society.

Young people are not merely leaders of tomorrow; they are also active contributors to the world today. Through education, creativity, technology, entrepreneurship, sports, community service and innovation, they continue to make meaningful differences.

International Youth Day provides an opportunity to draw attention to the challenges facing young people, including limited access to quality education, employment opportunities, skills development and meaningful participation in decision-making.

It is also a reminder that young people need support, encouragement and opportunities to discover and develop their talents. When given the right environment, they can turn their ideas into solutions that benefit families, communities and nations.

In Nigeria, the potential of young people is particularly significant. From technology and agriculture to entertainment, education and entrepreneurship, Nigerian youths continue to demonstrate resilience, creativity and determination.

However, celebrating young people should go beyond words.
Governments, institutions, communities and families must create opportunities that allow them to learn, participate, innovate and contribute positively.

Young people, on their part, should embrace education, acquire useful skills, respect others and use their talents and digital platforms responsibly.

International Youth Day therefore calls on everyone to listen to young voices and include them in conversations and decisions that affect their future.

As we mark the day, let us celebrate every young person striving to make a difference, while building a society where their dreams, talents and ideas can flourish.

Happy International Youth Day! Let us empower young people today and give them the opportunity to shape a brighter tomorrow.

Lilian is of the ministry of Information and Value Reformation

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INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE WORLD’S INDIGENOUS PEOPLES: PRIORITISING RIGHTS, CULTURAL PRESERVATION

By Florence Okpeti

The world marks the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples on Aug. 9 each year, drawing attention to the resilience, struggles and contributions of indigenous peoples and communities across the globe.

The observance, established by the United Nations in 1994, seeks to promote awareness of indigenous peoples’ rights and highlight the importance of preserving their cultures, traditions, identities and ways of life.

Beyond celebration, the day provides an opportunity to examine challenges confronting indigenous communities, including the loss of indigenous languages, climate change, economic marginalisation, inadequate access to basic services and limited participation in decision-making.

Language preservation remains a major concern. UNESCO estimates that nearly half of the world’s approximately 7,000 languages could disappear by the end of the century, with indigenous languages among those most at risk.

The loss of a language represents more than the disappearance of words; it can also mean the erosion of generations of knowledge, oral histories, cultural practices, traditional wisdom and spiritual traditions.

The observance further underscores the need for effective legal and institutional frameworks to protect indigenous rights. While the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, adopted in 2007, established international standards, challenges remain in translating those principles into meaningful action.

Economic exclusion is another concern. Many indigenous communities, particularly those in rural and remote areas, continue to experience limited access to healthcare, education, infrastructure and other essential services.

Ironically, some indigenous territories are rich in natural resources, including timber, minerals and oil, which contribute to national economies. This has continued to raise questions about land rights, environmental protection, resource ownership and equitable development.

The increasing participation of indigenous youth offers a measure of hope. Young people are combining traditional knowledge with modern advocacy and digital platforms to promote their rights, preserve their cultures and draw greater attention to issues affecting their communities.

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, therefore, goes beyond recognition. It is a reminder of the shared responsibility to promote inclusion, protect cultural diversity and ensure that development does not come at the expense of indigenous rights and heritage.

Governments, civil society organisations and other stakeholders must continue to support policies and programmes that protect indigenous peoples while preserving the cultural traditions and knowledge systems that enrich humanity’s collective heritage.

Florence Okpeti is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State

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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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