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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

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COMMENTARY ON WORLD NATURE CONSERVATION DAY 2026

By Lilian Ezejiegu

Every year on July 28, the world observes World Nature Conservation Day, a reminder that protecting the environment is essential to human survival and sustainable development. The day calls for collective action to conserve forests, water resources, wildlife, biodiversity and other natural assets that sustain life.

In Anambra State, the Solution Administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, continues to promote development that balances economic growth with environmental sustainability. Through deliberate environmental policies and programmes, the administration is working to build a cleaner, greener and more resilient state.

The government has sustained initiatives such as environmental sanitation, erosion control, flood management, waste management and drainage desilting to protect communities and preserve the state’s natural resources. These efforts not only improve public health but also reduce the impact of environmental degradation and climate-related challenges.

Across the world, environmental experts continue to raise concerns over pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss and climate change. In response, Anambra State has continued to implement practical measures that encourage environmental stewardship and active community participation in conservation efforts.

The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has remained a strong advocate for environmental sustainability through her Healthy Living Initiative, which promotes tree planting, proper waste disposal, environmental cleanliness and healthy lifestyles. Her grassroots campaigns continue to inspire residents across the state’s 21 Local Government Areas to take responsibility for protecting their environment.

The Ministry of Information and Value Reformation complements these efforts by educating the public on the importance of environmental conservation, responsible waste management and sustainable practices that safeguard natural resources for future generations.

As the world commemorates World Nature Conservation Day 2026, the Anambra State Government calls on residents, communities, schools, civil society organizations and the private sector to play active roles in protecting the environment. Conserving nature is a shared responsibility that requires collective action and long term commitment.

The Solution Administration remains dedicated to building an environmentally sustainable Anambra where clean surroundings, protected ecosystems and responsible use of natural resources continue to support economic growth, public health and improved quality of life for all.

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

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COMMENTARY: ANAMBRA DO JOINS THE WORLD TO TURN THE TIDE AGAINST DROWNING

Theme: Unite to Turn the Tide

Lilian Ezejiegu

Every July 25, the world marks World Drowning Prevention Day, drawing attention to a silent but preventable tragedy that claims hundreds of thousands of lives annually. Anambra State is not exempt from this concern.

With the Niger River, lakes, streams, and other waterways across the state, many residents depend on water for transportation, fishing, farming, trade, and other daily activities, making water safety an important public concern.

Under Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s Solution Administration, the safety and wellbeing of citizens remain central to the vision of building a Smart, Green, and Prosperous Anambra.

Anambra State Government cannot pursue development while ignoring the safety of citizens who live, work, and trade along the state’s waterways.

The Solution Administration continues to support public enlightenment, community vigilance, and improved emergency preparedness, in line with the global call for coordinated action to prevent drowning.

The First Lady, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has also championed child-protection initiatives, especially as children remain among those most vulnerable to drowning, particularly in riverine communities.

Environmental sanitation and desilting efforts further contribute to water safety by clearing waterways of debris that may endanger swimmers, fishermen, commuters, and other residents.

Traditional rulers, community leaders, market associations, parents, and residents are encouraged to strengthen supervision around water bodies, especially during the rainy season when rising water levels increase risks.

As the world unites to turn the tide against preventable drowning, Anambra State reaffirms its commitment to protecting lives, promoting awareness, and building safer communities both on land and on water.

Lilian is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State.
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COMMENTARY ON INTERNATIONAL DAY OF WOMEN AND GIRLS OF AFRICAN DESCENT

Lilian Ezejiegu

Every July 25th marks the International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, a UN observance recognizing the resilience, contributions, and untapped potential of women and girls across the African diaspora and homeland.

In Anambra State, this global recognition resonates deeply with the Solution Administration’s commitment to gender-inclusive governance under Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, who continues prioritizing women’s empowerment across sectors.

First Lady Mrs. Nonye Soludo has been a consistent advocate for women and girls, championing education, healthcare access, and leadership opportunities that dismantle generational cycles of exclusion and poverty.

Anambra State Government affirms that Anambra women and girls are not merely beneficiaries of development, they are architects of our Smart, Green and Prosperous future.

This observance falls within the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, spanning 2025 to 2035, underscoring global commitment to recognition, justice, and sustainable development for African-descended communities.

The Solution Administration has invested in girl-child education initiatives, maternal healthcare programmes, and economic empowerment schemes designed to break barriers facing women across Anambra’s twenty-one local government areas.

From market women in Onitsha to schoolgirls in rural communities, Anambra women continue rising beyond discrimination to claim leadership roles in academics, business, governance, and community advocacy.

The Ministry of Information and Value Reformation joins this year’s global reflection, celebrating the strength of Anambra women while reaffirming government’s dedication to equitable opportunity for every girl-child.

As the world honours women and girls of African descent, Anambra State reaffirms that empowering its daughters remains central to building the prosperous future envisioned under Solution 2.0.

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

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‎INTERNATIONAL SELF-CARE DAY 2026: PRIORITISING DAILY WELLNESS FOR HEALTHIER LIVES

By Florence Okpeti
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‎Every year July 24, the global community marks International Self-Care Day, an annual observance dedicated to promoting the importance of taking responsibility for one’s health and well-being through consistent self-care practices. The date, symbolises the need for self-care every hour of every day, underscoring that maintaining good health is a continuous commitment rather than a one-time effort.

‎Established by the International Self-Care Foundation (ISF), the observance seeks to raise awareness of the critical role self-care plays in preventing illness, promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing the burden on healthcare systems across the world.
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‎The 2026 theme, “Empowering Health Choices,” encourages individuals to make informed decisions that support their physical, mental and emotional well-being through healthy lifestyle habits and preventive healthcare practices.
‎Health experts describe self-care as a vital pillar of public health, noting that adopting healthy behaviours such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate rest and effective stress management can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases while improving overall quality of life.
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‎This year’s observance also places renewed emphasis on mental health, with workshops, webinars and community-based activities aimed at helping individuals recognise signs of stress, build emotional resilience and seek appropriate support when necessary.
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‎Educational institutions are also participating in the campaign by promoting self-care awareness among students, with the goal of fostering lifelong habits that contribute to both academic achievement and personal well-being.
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‎Across the globe, countries are collaborating through the International Self-Care Foundation to exchange research findings, best practices and innovative strategies that make self-care more accessible, inclusive and culturally relevant.
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‎According to health professionals, investing in self-care not only lowers healthcare costs and boosts productivity but also strengthens communities by improving the overall well-being of individuals.
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‎As the world commemorates International Self-Care Day, individuals are encouraged to embrace healthy daily habits, recognising that caring for oneself is not an act of selfishness but a vital step towards building healthier families, more resilient communities and a sustainable future.
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‎Florence Okpeti is of the Ministry of Information and value Reformation, Anambra State
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NAFDAC BEGINS NATIONWIDE ENFORCEMENT AGAINST BANNED SACHET ALCOHOL, SUB-200ML PET BOTTLES

By MaryAnn Chukwuma

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commenced a nationwide enforcement operation to remove banned sachet alcohol and sub-200ml PET bottled alcoholic beverages from circulation.

In a statement published on its official Facebook page on July 22, NAFDAC said the exercise follows the Federal Government’s ban on producing, importing, distributing, selling, and using the affected alcoholic products.

The agency explained that the enforcement operation is being conducted simultaneously across the six geopolitical zones following the closure of manufacturing facilities that failed to comply with the directive.

NAFDAC said enforcement teams are conducting coordinated operations in markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars, and other distribution channels to identify, seize, and remove banned products from circulation.

The agency directed manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, transporters, and other stakeholders to immediately surrender remaining stocks of the prohibited alcoholic products.

According to NAFDAC, continued possession or sale of the banned products violates existing regulations and may attract product seizure, regulatory sanctions, and prosecution.

The agency noted that the exercise is aimed at reducing underage drinking, harmful alcohol consumption, and substance abuse, particularly among children and young people across the country.

NAFDAC urged members of the public to support the enforcement by avoiding banned products and reporting anyone producing, distributing, or selling them to the nearest NAFDAC office or through 0800-1-623322.