Other News

MONDAY SIT AT HOME: ASMATA ASSURES ANAMBRA PLAZA TRADERS OF SECURITY, COOPERATION

By Uzo Ugwunze :

The Anambra State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) has urged traders who transact business in various Shopping Plazas in the State to defy the purported fear of the unknown gunmen or hoodlums and resume their normal businesses on Mondays.

Speaking during a meeting with Shopping plaza Chairmen and Secretaries at Onitsha on February 19, the President General (PG), ASMATA, Chief Humphrey Anuna reminded the plaza executives on the huge losses being incurred by both individuals and government because of no full business activities every Monday in Anambra and entire South East.

He said that Gov. Chukwuma Soludo who has the interest of Ndi Anambra has been using the tax payers money judiciously having almost completed about 400km roads among other interventions and projects.

“Soludo is working. Last time when Soludo empowered youths, many traders in the market benefited but people from the plaza could not submit any names because you were secluding yourselves.

“Let us unite together, sit up and support Soludo’s government because he is a good and very intelligent man that has the interest of the masses.

“His Excellency hosted a meeting for market leaders and joint task force comprising the Military, Police and AVS and they promised to be patrolling every Monday near the markets and plazas in case of any eventuality.

“So, you leaders should organize yourselves under one umbrella and select a 7 -man committee that will be part of ASMATA leadership meetings so that traders doing business in plazas all over the state can enjoy other privileges which include defending yourselves against multiple taxation from illegal revenue contractors.

“Plazas are Incorporated in ASMATA constitution and nobody will take you serious if you put up any official document without ASMATA letter headed paper.

“Also, remember never to remit any revenue to even I or anyone in cash because all payments are done through the bank with the ANSSID number generated for your own plaza,” Anuna said.

Moreover, Chief Anuna with the support of plazas executives appointed the duo of Engr. Samuel Nwankwo, Manager of Emeka Offor plaza and Mr Chris Nwadilibe of the Young Shall Grow plaza to organize a meeting for all the plazas from major cities in Anambra as soon as possible for further information.

Earlier during the interactive session, Mr Chinedu Udemba of Atlantic plaza Nkpor, Simon Onwe of Ike Dunukofia plaza, Afam Nwagu of Collymart plaza after expressing the fear of endangering the lives of the traders said that plaza owners were also afraid of their plaza being burnt down by hoodlums.

They thanked the ASMATA PG for extending the opportunity for plaza traders to participate in ASMATA affairs and to defend the plazas from intimidation and exploitation, saying that this was the first of its kind.

According to Engr. Nwankwo of Emeka Offor plaza, 50 percent of plaza traders are ready to open for businesses on Mondays but they need to be convinced that government will provide adequate security both at the markets, plazas and roads leading from residential buildings to the plazas.

Nwankwo further requested for the ASMATA constitution and guidelines to enable the plaza traders to participate fully in the ASMATA affairs, urging the PG to ensure that plaza traders have enabling environment for business without interference from touts with many so called authorization form both LG Secretariat and State Government.

Moreso, Ochiagha Chukwunonso of Bethel plaza Niger Street, Onitsha eulogized Soludo for channeling the tax payers money into visible projects like the newly constructed road network within Fegge Onitsha.

He further suggested that South Eastern Governors should go to Aso Rock, Abuja and demand for the unconditional release of the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu instead of increasing the number of security agents in the state which may scare citizens from going about their normal businesses.

*Uzo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

SOLUDO BACKS SUPER EAGLES TO WIN AFCON SEMI-FINAL

By Christian ABURIME :

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed his full support for the Super Eagles of Nigeria as they face off today against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the highly anticipated semi-final match of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

With echoes of victory already building up in the air as millions of expectant Nigerians across the nation throw their renewed support behind our gallant Super Eagles, Governor Soludo declares that the journey of Nigeria’s team in this AFCON tournament has been nothing short of inspiring, showcasing resilience, tactical brilliance, and the unbeatable Nigerian spirit.

The governor and indeed entire Anambra State stand united behind our brave Super Eagles, confident in their abilities, dedication, and hunger for victory.

“Let the soaring Eagles go out there, unleash their dazzling skills, and beat Bafana Bafana to the finals!” Governor declares

Governor Soludo further emphasizes the unifying power of football and its ability to transcend differences, noting that this match presents a unique opportunity for Nigerians to come together, irrespective of current challenges, and celebrate our shared passion for the beautiful game with patriotic zeal.

“As the boys carry the hopes and dreams of millions on their shoulders, fighting for every tackle and winning every battle on the pitch, we will all celebrate another heroic triumph tonight on the road to the AFCON finals”.

It will be recalled that Governor Soludo has persistently supported the Super Eagles in all their matches leading up to today’s epic semi-final with South Africa with a great zeal of national patriotism!

Public Notice: Anambra State Government Grievance Redress Procedure

The Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Industry in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, has established a comprehensive Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) for addressing public concerns in an organized, timely, and transparent manner. This process is designed to resolve disputes efficiently and equitably to the satisfaction of all parties involved. Both concerned Ministries have designated staff members as administrators of this grievance redress process.

The Grievance Redress Mechanism ensures:

Complaints are submitted in writing to maintain official records.

All resolutions are documented and communicated to the complainants in writing.

All disputes are to be resolved within 21 working days.

Contact Details:

Hotlines: 08102693200; 09064395160

Email: grm@anambrastate.gov.ng; chuka.okeke@anambrastate.gov.ng

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Resolving Disputes:

Step 1: The complainant submits a grievance by voice call, SMS, or WhatsApp to any of the publicized GRM hotlines and sends a written complaint via email to grm@anambrastate.gov.ng

Step 2: The designated GRM desk officer receives and logs the grievance in the GRM portal https://grm.anambrastate.gov.ng and a tracking number is generated for the complainant.

Step 3: The desk officer acknowledges receipt of the grievance via the complainant’s email address (the email notifies the complainant of the case status, provides the grievance tracking number to the complainant, and, if necessary, requests additional details).

Step 4: The desk officer initiates the Grievance Investigation process to understand the nature and scope of the complaint.

Step 5: The desk officer communicates an estimated resolution timeframe to the complainant via a follow-up email.

Step 6: The desk officer ensures that the grievance is resolved and any necessary remedial actions are carried out within the established timeframe, aiming to resolve within 72 hours and not exceeding 21 days.

Step 7: The GRM desk monitors the implementation of the resolution to ensure compliance with the agreed terms.

Step 8: The complainant and the GRM desk officer engage to verify that the resolution meets the complainant’s satisfaction.

Step 9: The complaint is officially closed on the GRM portal once the resolution has been fully implemented to the complainant’s satisfaction.

Step 10: The GRM desk officer will compile and report all complaints received every quarter at a minimum.

The Anambra State Government encourages citizens to utilize the provided hotlines and GRM portal for grievance submissions, follow-ups, and resolutions. This mechanism demonstrates Anambra State’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective dispute resolution for the benefit of all citizens.

Signed: Ministry of Industry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice

FEDPOLY OKO RECTOR TO SPEAK AT AMTY AWARDS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Rector Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Engr.Dr Francisca Unoma Nwafulugo has been confirmed as Keynote Speaker for the 3rd edition of the AMTY Awards slated to hold on December 29, 2023.

Director of Media and Communications, AMTY Awards, Dr Odogwu Emeka, in a press statement on Monday in Awka, revealed the theme for the edition as “Gbakotanu Ka anyi Dozie Obodo Dike” (Come Together Let’s Build the land of the Great).

He said the event will be holding at the Stanel Dome, Awka and promises to honor Anambrarians that have continued to blaze the trail in various fields of human endeavor.

Speaking about the keynote speaker, Odogwu described Dr. Nwafulugo as a respected academician whose belief in the progress of our state is unwavering.

The statement reads in part, “Engr Dr Francisca Unoma Nwafulugo was until her appointment as rector, Federal Polytechnic Oko, a Chief lecturer at the Chemical Engineering Department of Kaduna Polytechnic.

“She attended the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) Enugu where she obtained Higher National Diploma (HND)

“She did PGD and later went ahead to obtain Masters degree and PhD all in Chemical Engineering.

“Engr Nwafulugo is a member of various professional bodies and associations including Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN), Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSCHE).

“She is a member of Association of Professional Women Engineers (APWEN), Waste Management Society of Nigeria (WAMSON) and Women in Technical Education and Employment (WITED).

“She is a fellow of eight professional bodies including Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSChE), Institute of Oil Gas Research and Hydrocarbon studies (FIOGR)A

“She was appointed Rector Federal Polytechnic oko in 2019 and was the first female rector of the institution in over 40 years of its existence.”

UNIVERSITY AUTONOMY: FG INTERFERENCE IMPEDING DEVT OF PUBLIC VARSITIES – UNIZIK DON

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

A university don, Prof Nkemdilim Nnoyelu has lamented overbearing interference of governments and its regulatory agencies or bodies on the autonomy of public Universities in the country.

He identified such interference as major factor hampering development of university education system in Nigeria.

Nnoyelu, a professor of Industrial Sociology and Industrial Relations stated this while delivering the 98 inaugural lecturer of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State titled: “From classroom teachers and researchers to union activists: The predicament of academics in Nigerian public Universities”.

He described the practice of Ministries of Education and the National Universities Commission (NUC) determining curriculum benchmark as strange to global standards.

He canvassed review of NUC mandate, including allowing Universities liberty to determine their content, syllabus and curriculum without being restrained by regulation and standardizations.

He said, “Autonomy of the university is sacrosanct. The university should be insulated from government interference to enjoy academic freedom in terms of content, curriculum and syllabus.

“The university should not be under the overbearing of the Ministry of Education or any other authority. They should be allowed to develop their own programmes.

“Professors should be allowed to teach what they want to teach and not to be given benchmark, all in the name of uniformity of standard.

“Intellectuals should be allowed to flourish and blossom. It’s a major struggle. That’s why university is called “mahadum” in Igbo language.

“NUC affects this autonomy to a very large extent. The whole system should be adjusted and reviewed especially in terms of the powers the Commission weilds.

“The accreditation system is a ruise. What’s it doing for us? Even though they point to global standard, but we know the reality on ground.”

While lamenting the over 7years closure of universities in the last 31 years occasioned by strike actions, the inuguaral lecturer called for institutionalisation of collective bargaining and implementation of agreements with unions as panecea for reoccurring industrial disputes in the education system.

Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Charles Esimone, while decorating Nnoyelu with the lecture medal, commended him for speaking truth to power at the same time proffering solutions to challenges facing the nation’s University system.

Esimone, represented by his deputy in-charge of academics, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu explained that the culture of inaugural lectures has been sustained to promote academic and research excellence in the University.

NOC SAYS 2023 IS A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR SPORTS IN NIGERIA

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has reflected on the outgoing year, 2023, describing it as a successful year for sports development in the country.

Addressing its Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, the President, Engr. Habu Gumel, OON, FNIM, FNSE, addressed the esteemed colleagues and members of the Olympic Family in his report for the year 2022, highlighting the Committee’s achievements and plans for the future.

Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his pleasure and privilege to address the Olympic Family, acknowledging the support of all members, including the Executive Committee, and Executive Board.

The NOC president particularly paid tribute to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The IOC member used the opportunity provided by the AGM to appeal to all stakeholders – the Federation presidents, and the Ministry of Sports to rally route ensure strong participation in three Major Games in 2024, Youth Winter Games, the African Games and the Olympics.

‘’We need a new result at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games; by improving on the 1996 Atlanta Games, where Nigeria won two Gold medals.

This was the Games the Chioma Ajunwa won gold through her 7.12-metre long jump and the gold by our soccer ‘Dream Team’ led by Nwankwo Kanu.

He also recognized the esteemed Patrons, Trustees, and members of various Commissions and Committees for their contributions in achieving the Committee’s goals.

He reflected on the activities of 2022, emphasizing the Committee’s commitment to uniting the Olympic Family and promoting the ideals of the Olympic Movement.

Gumel, who is an honorary life member of the International Olympic Committee highlighted the successful acquisition of five hectares of land for the building of the Committee’s Secretariat in Abuja, a long-awaited achievement.

He also mentioned the completion of the Olympafrica section of the Amuwo Odofin project in Lagos, a significant step towards the development of sports facilities.

To support the activation of Olympic Movement activities, the Committee reconstituted various Commissions, with a focus on involving members from the National Federations.

”Despite financial constraints, the President expressed satisfaction with the dedication and hard work of some Commissions in achieving their objectives, ” Gumel said

The President welcomed Senator John Enoh, the energetic Minister for Sports Development, and expressed his joy and honour in presenting the Report of Activities for the year 2022.

The report acknowledged the XXII Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

The President mentioned the successful visit of the Queen’s Baton Relay to Nigeria, marking the seventh consecutive visit since 2002.

The Baton’s journey included stops at various locations, including Abuja, Jabi Lake, and the British High Commission, before departing Nigeria. It was a moment of pride for the Olympic Family to witness the Baton’s presence in their country.

The report discussed the Gather Prepare & Sustain (GAPS) programme, a crucial initiative by the Commonwealth Games Federation for Para athletes.

Nigeria was among the 13 African Commonwealth countries benefiting from the programme. However, the report also mentioned the unfortunate passing of coach Patrick Anaeto during the programme, a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes and coaches.

The highlight of the report was the impressive performance of Team Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games, winning a total of 12 Gold, nine Silver, and 14 Bronze medals.

The President praised the athletes for their dedication and hard work, placing Nigeria in the seventh position in the overall medals table.

The report then shifted focus to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, where Nigeria participated in Ski Sports. The qualification pathway was discussed, with one athlete successfully qualifying through the continental representation quota.

It was also noted that Dr Marian Mkpo Odun received a scholarship to attend the IOC Diploma Course in Sports Medicine, contributing to the development of Nigerian sports medicine.

Other events, such as the celebration of Olympic Day, the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace, and various seminars and workshops, were also highlighted in the report, underscoring the Committee’s commitment to the growth and development of Nigerian sports.

The President Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his gratitude to the Olympic Family for their support and contributions.

He extended his appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Grand Patron of NOC, for their unwavering support.

He wished the General Assembly productive deliberations and extended warm wishes for the season.

This report signifies the remarkable achievements of Nigerian sports in 2022 and sets the foundation for future endeavours in Olympic sports in the country.

As part of the highlights of the event, the Account Audit firm of Yerima & Associates was re-appointed for another term. ##

Tony Nezianya (PRO NOC)

Anambra State Government Health Workers Recruitment Exam Time Table (Dec. 2023)

PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS:

Candidates are expected to strictly adhere to the guidelines outlined below:

Failure to be present on the exam date and time will lead to automatic disqualification.
No writing materials of any kind are permitted within the examination hall, as the exam is Computer-Based Testing (CBT).
Electronic devices, including mobile phones and calculators, are strictly prohibited in the exam hall.
Candidates must present a valid means of identification upon arrival.
Candidates must be present at the examination venue at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. The venue for the examination is Integral Development Consult (IDK) Learning Center Awka, located at 18/20 Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, White House, Awka, Anambra State.
Impersonation will result in immediate disqualification.

Kindly ensure compliance with these directives. Your understanding and adherence to these instructions are greatly appreciated.

Computer Users: Use the Ctrl + F keys to activate the find feature of your browser, type in your name, and press the “Enter” key on your keyboard to locate your name using the arrow keys provided.

Mobile Phone Users: Use the find feature of your phone app to locate your name in the list.

ANSG-Health-Workers-Recruitment-Exam-Time-Tale

ANAMBRA POLICE SMASH DEATH THREAT SYNDICATES, ARREST SUSPECTS

Police in Ozubulu and Umunze towns in Anambra State have smashed two deadly syndicates extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public via deadly threats.

At Umunze, Orumba South LGA Headquarters two suspects were nabbed after painstaking investigation.

The suspects had sent text messages to their victim identifying themselves as members of ESN and demanding that he paid them a huge sum or else he and his daughter would be kidnapped and killed.

Both suspects are now cooling their feet in detention and would be arraigned in court soon.

In a similar development the Police at Ozubulu, Headquarters of Ekwusigo LGA arrested one male suspect who used two different lines to issue deadly threats to a businessman. He claimed to be an ESN Commander and ordered his victim to pay up or be killed.

Meticulous investigation employing technology and human assets led detectives to his hideout where he was arrested and both sims recovered. He was taken into custody and is to be arraigned in court.

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Police Command, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has commended both DPOs for their diligence and painstaking effort which led to unravelling the identities of the crime suspects and apprehending them.

He assured that Command Headquarters will continue to motivate its personnel across the State for optimum performance.

*DSP Tochukwu Ikenga*

Police Public Relations Officer,

Anambra State Police Command,

Awka.

15th November, 2023.

Anambra Assembly Committee on Works Visit Amansea Road Project

By Chizoba Okeke :

The Anambra State House Committee on Works has commended the contractor in charge of Amensea-Ifite—Amaenyi road awarded by the State Government, some days ago.

The honourable member representing Orumba South, Mr. Emmanuel Nwafor who is the chairman of the committee expressed satisfaction with the level of progress already achieved by the construction limited.

‘I commend your dedication to work while urging you to continue in that light. Drainages are ongoing with the right specification and good equipments.

We have seen the reinforce concrete and is above normal.”

The project manager, Mr. M. Swali laid more emphasis on the progress of the work.

”We are at the drainage stage, also removing bad materials and putting stone base. The duration of the project is eighteen months’, He said.

The committee also paid a visit to the on-going project at Isiagu linking Ukwu Orji road with a bypass to Nibo.

The chairman of the committee, Mr Emmanuel Nwafor said, “though work is on going on the road but it is slow.

“We don’t want anything that will derail Mr. Governor’s intention to deliver the road at the appropriate time so I urge you to work faster to meet up with the agreed time”

“We have checked the size of the road, the width of the drainage though it is an existing drainage; we have marked some areas that needs to be removed to avoid structural collapse”.

The project manager, Mr. Olumide Temilaye explained that the weather condition has been a huge set back to the progress of the work.

“We don’t want a future collapse of the road so we waited for the rain to stop. We have five dry months and we promise the road will be ready within the period.”

Other members of the committee present are; Mr. Ejike Okechukwu (Anaocha 2), Mr. Patrick Uoba (Anambra West) and Mr. Golden Chukwuebuka Iloh (Ihiala 2).

*Chizoba writes for the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

Anambra Police Smashes Armed Robbery Gang, Recovers Two AK-47 Rifles

Men of Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu of Anambra State Police Command on Monday 16th October, 2023 foiled a planned robbery operation along Ebenebe-Achalla Road in Awka North LGA of the State.

The Operatives while on Anti Kidnapping Patrol were tipped off by a public spirited citizen who saw two gun men being conveyed on a motorcycle along the road.

The Operatives went in pursuit of the gang and encountered them where they had positioned to rob mororists. On sighting the approaching Operatives they tried to engage them in a shootout but the battle-ready Operatives quickly overwhelmed them forcing them to abandon their weapons and fled into the bushy environ.

Operatives combed the Bush and recovered two AK-47 Rifles loaded with several rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and shells of expended rounds.

The Commissioner of Police CP Aderemi Adeoye who commended the team for its gallantry has asked them to step up proactive operations in that part of the State until all criminal elements tormenting citizens in that part of the State are completely flushed out.

*DSP Tochukwu Ikenga*

Police Public Relations Officer,

Anambra State Police Command,

Awka.

17th October, 2023.