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ASPECTS OF THE NEW SECURITY INTERVENTION – OPERATION UDO GA-ACHI – TAKE OFF AS ANSEC AWARDS MORE STRATEGIC ROADS AND OTHER PROJECTS 

PRESS RELEASE

The 38th Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) Meeting, held at the Council chambers in Awka, celebrated and savoured the two key awards won by Anambra State in the National Primary Health Challenge. The state emerged as the winner in the South East and the best national champion in Nigeria, winning a combined sum of $1.2 million in the two categories.

Some aspects of the new security intervention—Operation Udo Ga-Achi—designed to root out insecurity in Anambra were favourably considered and approved to ensure a peaceful and joyous Christmas celebration.

The report of the consultative meetings between relevant ministries, departments and agencies, and the private sector on the Anambra State Action on Business Enabling Reform (SABER) programme was considered and approved. The consultative meetings aim to tease out ways and means of improving the ease of doing business in Anambra State. The report showed that Anambra state  in the last annual peer review placed no. 1 in South Nigeria and 7th in Nigeria. The report also showed the pathway to Anambra State retaining its first position in southern Nigeria and possibly emerging first in Nigeria in the next review. 

Projects and Contracts Awarded

The Council considered and approved contracts for key projects that will expand and deepen the Solution Government’s infrastructure revolution. Some of the road contracts are for the rehabilitation of federal roads in deplorable condition. Many of these federal roads have already been rehabilitated and beautified as part of the grand preparations for a memorable Christmas celebration.

The Council considered and approved the award of the contract in the sum of ₦214,006,328.51 (two hundred and fourteen million, six thousand, three hundred and twenty-eight naira, fifty-one kobo) in favour of Muterbonch & Co Nig Ltd for the rehabilitation of Eze Uzu Junction Agu-Awka and the front of the ANSIEC Office to Arroma Junction along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Awka, Awka South LGA.  

Others are the award of contract in the sum of ₦1,650,000,000.00 (One Billion, Six Hundred and Fifty Million Naira) Only, in favour of IDC Construction Limited, for the Proposed Completion of the Asphalt Wearing Course of the access road of the Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri, Anambra East LGA;  

The award of contract in the sum of ₦577,000,000.00 (Five Hundred and Seventy-Seven Million Naira) only, in favour of Crystal Dove Construction, for the Development of 624 Open Stalls within the Modern Bus Terminal in Ekwulobia. 

The award of the contract for the construction of the Ekwulobia flood control project phase II, including the maintenance of bio-remediation for the next year within the project track, in the sum of n4,450,000,000.00 (four billion, four hundred and fifty-four million naira only) to AG Vision Construction Nig Ltd. 

The award of the contract for the rehabilitation of the Amawbia Flyover to Arroma Junction along the Enugu Onitsha Expressway in the sum of N327,829,570.72 (three hundred and twenty-seven million, eight hundred and twenty-nine thousand, five hundred and seventy naira, seventy-two kobo only) to New Idea Construction Company Ltd. 

The award of the contract for the provision of free internet access to Nwafor Orizu College of Education in the sum of N93,107,362.50 (ninety-three million, one hundred and seven thousand, three hundred and sixty-two naira, fifty kobo) (in the first year) to Swifttalk Ltd. 

The award of the contract for the provision of free internet access to the College of Health Technology Obosi in the sum of N85,517,325.00 (eighty-five million, five hundred and seventeen thousand, three hundred and twenty-five naira only) (in the first year) to Croz Enterprises. 

The award of contract in the sum of ₦467,269,015.00 (Four Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million, Two Hundred and Sixty-Nine Thousand, Fifteen Naira) only, in favour of Pudsey Limited, for the Supply and Installation of Outdoor Furniture at the Solution Fun City, Awka. 

The award of contract in the sum of ₦128,000,000.00 (One Hundred and Twenty-Eight Million Naira) only, in favour of Crystal Dove Construction Company Ltd, for the construction of the Gatehouse, Perimeter Fence, and Earthworks (Clearing) at Ekwulobia Modern Bus Terminal. 

The award of contract in the sum of ₦234,811,927.50 (Two Hundred and Thirty-Four Million, Eight Hundred and Eleven Thousand, Nine Hundred And Twenty-Seven Naira and Fifty Kobo) in favour of Newsbreak International Communication Ltd for the Installation of Security Equipment and Features in Newly Acquired Security Vehicles (Lot 1 – Hardware Security Gadgets).

Finally,  the Council also approved additional sum of ₦52,983,847 (fifty-two million, nine hundred and eighty-three thousand, eight hundred and forty-seven naira) only, bringing the Revised Estimated Total Cost (RETC) to ₦146,000,000.00 (one hundred and forty-six million naira) only, for the completion of Judges Quarters for the Anambra State Judiciary at Judges Quarters, Onitsha, Anambra State, in favour of Tivoge Properties Ltd. 

Law Mefor, PhD

Commissioner for Information

Anambra State.

TRADERS LAUD SOLUDO FOR PRUDENT USE OF TAX PAYERS MONEY..AS BAKERY MARKET HOLDS END OF YEAR PRAYERS 

By Uzo Ugwunze :

The Caretaker Chairman, Bakery International Market Ogidi, Chief Chukwudi Ezeife has commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his prudent management, distribution and utilization of tax payers money in Anambra State, saying that was the reason traders in the market do comply in payment of tax without coercion.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after the 2024 End of Year Prayers at Bakery Market Ogidi, Idemili North LGA Anambra State, Chief Ezeife said that  traders in his market seldom complain against payment of tax because they knew that tax payment was their civic responsibility, adding that they see the effect of their tax money.

“Even people living outside Anambra State when they come into the state, they see the newly constructed roads, rehabilitated roads, new bridges, flyover and other ongoing projects. Soludo’s regime is the first time traders are willing to pay 100 percent tax”.

 The former PG Bakery Market, Chief Chudi Nwokediuko who led the traders to the new site appreciated God that over 85 percent of his dream for motivating the traders to the permanent site has been accomplished.

“Reasons why I insisted that we leave Onitsha to this place include inadequate space, multiple taxation, suppression from indigenes, uncontrollable revenue drive from every source. Today, those inconveniences are things of the past. Many of our apprentices now have space for their own business activities and many of them have become landlords,” Nwokediuko said.

Earlier in his homily, the Guest Minister, Rev Chinedu Agbakoba who spoke on the topic “Jesus in the boat of your life” admonished the traders that true success and riches comes from God through Jesus Christ. He urged them to accept Jesus as their savior and master for guaranteed peace and prosperity despite the storms of life.

 Market Evangelism Team/prayers Coordinator, Bro Cletus Anaebo thanked God for another successful year of ministry. He urged the traders to pray without season during the Christmas and New year periods for God’s guidance, provision, protection and mercy as they hope to continue their general prayers next year, 2025.

* Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ONITSHA NORTH MAYOR JOINS APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN IN THANKSGIVING FOR SUPREME COURT VICTORY

By Chika Obi, Chioma Nwankwo and Claribel Udah  :

The Mayor of Onitsha North LGA, Mr. Nweze Tony Nwora has attended a thanksgiving Mass at Immaculate Heart Catholic Church in Fegge, Onitsha South LGA, to celebrate the Supreme Court victory of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) National Chairman, Chief Sly Ezeokenwa (Esq), who was affirmed as the authentic National Chairman of APGA by the Apex court.

The event, which was an expression of gratitude to God, drew the presence of several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Anambra State,  Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim; the Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly, Hon. Chukwuma Okoye; APGA State Chairman, Chief Ifeatu Obiokoye (Esq), representative of the National Deputy Legal Adviser of APGA, Mr. Harold Chiedu Ekwerekwu (Esq); Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security, Mr. Chiejina Obieze; and former APGA State Assembly aspirant, Mr. Shedrack Okafor among others.

Mayor Nwora, speaking at the occasion, congratulated Chief Ezeokenwa on the landmark victory and prayed for divine guidance and protection as he leads the party to further success.  

The thanksgiving celebration also highlighted APGA’s commitment to unity and progress as members rallied in support of the party’s vision for Anambra State and Nigeria.  

The event was not just a celebration of legal victory but a reaffirmation of APGA’s mission to drive positive change in governance, underscoring its readiness to deliver on its transformative agenda.

* Obi, Nwankwo and Udah are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

UNIVERSITY ON THE NIGER SET TO COMMENCE ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES JANUARY 7, 2025, ORDAINS 4 DEACONS

By Mokwugwo Ogochukwu/Achukwu-Jide Kelechi/Nwegbo Ifeanyi :

The University on the Niger (UNINIGER), Umunya, Anambra State, is set to commence academic activities on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. This milestone follows the institution’s receipt of a take-off license from the Federal Government in 2023.

Chancellor of the university and Bishop of the Diocese on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo,  announced the official opening date during the diaconate ordination of four ministers at All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha. The four ordained deacons were: 

Rev Nonso Stanley Anene, Rev Amos Onwe Nkwoeze, Rev Chinedu Samuel Obi and Rev Lotanna Uchechukwu Unegbu.

“The university is one on a fast lane, the institution had since operated in Onitsha at Iyi-Enu Teaching Hospital but from January 7 2025, some of the faculties and departments of the university would move to its Umunya permanent and administrative headquarters.

“The Iyi-Enu Teaching Hospital is a permanent campus of the university, not all departments or faculties will move to Umunya because there are faculties that will remain at Iyi-Enu,” he emphasised.

According to bishop, the official opening of the permanent site of the university at Umunya will be presided by the Primate, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Most Rev Henry Ndukuba, in the company of some federal and state government functionaries. He added that the event would coincide with the coming of all bishops to the diocese for their annual retreat which he said would hold between January 7, through 11, 2025.

Bishop Nwokolo, while ordaining new deacons, reminded them of their responsibilities and privileges. He emphasized their role in serving the Church, ministering to the needy, and preaching the word.

Ven. Angus Umeh, in his sermon, urged the newly ordained deacons to be faithful servants of God. He stressed the importance of selfless management of resources, transparency, and accountability. Umeh also appealed to the deacons to respect God and humanity, and to prioritize prayer for their flock.

* Mokwugwo, Achukwu-Jide and Nwegbo are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

UNIZIK FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE HOSTS BOOTCAMP ON ACADEMIC WRITING AND PRESENTATION 

By Nwanodu Angela  :

The One-Day Staff Training Bootcamp on Academic Writing and Presentation, with the theme, “Publish with Confidence, Promote with Ease” organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), brought together academics, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss how to elevate the visibility of research works through effective publishing strategies. 

Held at the UNIZIK Business School Hall, the event highlighted practical training for publishing in prestigious journals like Scopus and Clarivate and culminated in the presentation of partnership awards to organizations, including the Anambra State ICT Agency for their unwavering support.

Prof. Fredrick Odibo, representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, emphasized the importance of confidence in academic writing, urging participants to focus on producing works that solve real-world problems and evoke lasting impressions. 

The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika representing the NUJ Anambra State Council Chairman, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu encouraged academics to collaborate more with the media. She underscored the need for their works to reach a wider audience through strategic communication and media engagement.

Dr. Ngozi Osuchukwu, representing Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, National Librarian and CEO of the National Library of Nigeria, highlighted the need for accessibility in academic works. She introduced participants to open access platforms, such as international repositories, Google Scholar, and even Wikipedia, as avenues to make research widely available without financial strain. 

She advocated for ethical use of AI in academic writing and stressed the value of producing research that addresses societal challenges, earns citations, and stands the test of time.

The MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the agency’s role in advancing digital libraries and academic repositories. He highlighted the critical role technology plays in modernizing academia and commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for prioritizing technology under the Solution Agenda.

He emphasized the agency’s efforts to bridge the gap between research and digital infrastructure, empowering academics to publish and promote their works globally. Key initiatives include high-speed broadband, cloud-based digital libraries, and capacity-building programs. The agency’s investment in public WiFi and strategic partnerships is also creating equitable access to digital tools for researchers.

The training concluded with renewed commitments from stakeholders to collaborate in creating a robust academic environment where research is not just produced but amplified globally.

 Participants left inspired and better equipped to navigate the publishing landscape, assured of the infrastructural and institutional support provided by the Solution Administration.

* Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

RE: OPEN LETTER TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL/COMMISSIONER FOR JUSTICE ANAMBRA STATE: A REPLY TO CHIEF NICHOLAS ORJIAKOR

Please permit me to adopt the medium that was used to reach the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Anambra state – an open letter. 

My attention has been drawn to the publication by Chief Nicholas Orjiakor, Chairman of the Anambra Indigenous Assembly (A.I.A.), New Jersey Chapter, U.S.A. The open letter was published on social media, wherein he alleged unprofessional misconduct of Justice Okaa of the Anambra State Judiciary. All the alleged complaints contained therein have been well noted; however, I regret to inform you that while I concede that Prof. Sylvia Chika Ifemeje is the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Anambra State, she is, however, not the head of the judicial arm of the government. It is therefore outside the scope of her power to initiate the investigation of the alleged acts leveled against the judicial officer in question.

Your open letter, therefore, needs to be properly routed. It ought to have been routed via the National Judicial Council (NJC), the statutory body vested with the power to investigate such allegations by the constitution.

I, however, assure you of Prof.  Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s (CFR) administration’s total commitment to justice for all, irrespective of one’s social status. Be further assured of the current administration’s zero tolerance for injustice. You are therefore advised that if your complaints are properly channelled through the National Judicial Council (NJC), they will be given the appropriate attention they deserve.

Law Mefor, PhD

Commissioner for Information

Anambra State.

OIL PALM ECONOMY: ANAMBRA OUTLINES BENEFITS, SEEKS VALUE CHAIN COLLABORATIONS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government has reiterated its commitment to developing oil palm production as a veritable tool for improved livelihood and economic transformation of the state.

The State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, made this known while receiving a delegation from Federal Ministry of Industry,Trade and Investment, Ministry of Finance and National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPAN) in his office.

He highlighted the need for collaborations to utilize derivable benefits from the value chain to create job opportunities and for economic development.

“Our Governor understands the importance of the palm, he understands the importance of it economically and as food security item and poverty eradication. He understands how the value chain translates to stable jobs.

“He decided what to do is to support small holder farmers to strengthen their businesses and  create as it were raw material base for value chain activities.

“We have done that now for the past three years, next year will be the fourth year and we are looking forward to beginning to see the fruits of these interventions.

“We expect aggregators and primary processors to begin to emerge. We, then, need to collaborate with NPAN to organise their activities along oil palm into sustainable businesses.”

The Commissioner expressed optimism that collaborations would create more opportunities especially in the oil palm development value chain.

He reasoned that if Nigerians embraced oil palm economy, it would not only improve on their lives but become the nation’s major source of income to boost economic development.

In a remark, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka, urged the federal government delegation to always consider it proper to publicize incentives and other support services to enable stakeholders to key into them.

She called for strengthening of the Bank of Industry (BOI) to make it more responsive to its mandate, pointing out that Anambra State Small Business Agency(ASBA) had demonstrated more commitment to providing credit facilities for agriculture.

Earlier, Mr Akeju Olutayo Kehinde, Industrial Development Department, Federal Ministry of Industry,Trade and Investment, had told the Commissioner that they visited to gather information, data that could enable government to assist oil palm producers.

He added that federal government would want to know their challenges, know the aggregate demand and supply of oil palm as well as number of processing firms in the state.

Akeju, enumerated existing incentives provided by the federal government for NPAN to include, Backward Integration Program Certificate, Import Duty Exemption Certificate, Industrial Cluster Construction Support, Pioneer Status and Capital Allowance.

He stated the resolve of federal government to reposition the oil palm sector for optimal production and to help NPAN to expand their businesses.

The representative of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Silas Haruna Versila, Technical Services Dept, said that government provided lots of non interest loan through the Bank of Industry and zero duty oil palm machinery importation as well as implementation of financial policies that would assist producers.

Spokesman of Nigeria Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPAN), Anambra State Chapter, Mr Arthur Onweluzo, appreciated the delegation and assured of their readiness to synergise with government to promote oil palm production in the country.

*Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

RATTAWU MCET CHAPTER CELEBRATES END-OF-YEAR PARTY CUM SEND-OFF FOR RETIRED MEMBERS

By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :

The Radio, Television, Theatre, and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism (MCET) Chapter, held a grand End-of-Year Party during which three retired members; Mr Emma Umeokana, Mr Paulo Onyejefu, and Mrs Ebere Oboshi, were sent off and appreciated for their outstanding contributions to the union throughout their career.

At the occasion, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr Don Onyenji praised the organizing committee for the program and expressed his appreciation to the retirees for their dedication to the union during their years of service. He said, “Being part of a trade union means you are committed to addressing issues that affect workers and society.

“A union is not just about festivities; it’s a system where knowledge and technical skills are utilized to achieve desired goals. To succeed in this mission, you must be scientific in your approach, serious in your endeavours, and informed about your surroundings.

“You should also familiarize yourself with the civil service system, understand how it operates, read the public service rules and regulations, and engage with the mandate of the Governor to stay well-informed,” he emphasized.

In his remarks, the RATTAWU National Vice President for the South East, Prince Emeka Kalu, expressed gratitude to the commissioner for elevating the union during his tenure. He noted that the MCET RATTAWU Chapter is exceptional and has strong leaders who demonstrate outstanding performance.

“This chapter is doing well, and I commend your hard work. I also thank Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for his significant efforts in improving road infrastructure, hospitals, schools, and other notable projects. I urge the state Governor to consider constructing an Arts Council in Anambra State,” he appealed.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Chairman of RATTAWU MCET Chapter, Nneka Nwaechia, thanked the Commissioner, South East RATTAWU National Vice President, and attendees for honouring the invitation. She encouraged everyone to take their jobs seriously and work hard.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of gifts to the retirees.

*Ifeyinwa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ASHIA LAUNCHES 2025–2029 STRATEGIC HEALTH DEVELOPMENT PLAN TO STRENGTHEN HEALTH COVERAGE IN ANAMBRA STATE

By Chisom Okafor :

The Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) has taken a significant step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by launching its 2025–2029 Strategic Health Development Plan (SHDP) during the commemoration of Universal Health Coverage Day 2024. The initiative reflects ASHIA’s dedication to ensuring access to quality and affordable healthcare for all residents of the state.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, Managing Director of ASHIA, highlighted the importance of UHC, describing it as the ability of all individuals to access essential healthcare services without financial hardship. He commended Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for his unwavering support, which has enabled the agency to achieve milestones since its establishment. 

Dr. Onyemaechi said that ASHIA has already enrolled over 230,000 active beneficiaries in its health insurance scheme and aimed to cover 90% of Anambra’s population by 2030 through the newly launched SHDP.

The 2025–2029 SHDP provides a roadmap for expanding health insurance coverage, improving service quality, and ensuring the sustainability of healthcare financing in the state. It aligns with Nigeria’s national goal of achieving UHC by 2030 and sets a precedence for other subnational efforts in healthcare reform.

Representing the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, praised ASHIA’s efforts in enhancing healthcare delivery and urged Ndi Anambra to embrace the insurance scheme for better health outcomes.

Hon. Tony Muobike, Chairman of the Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Health, described the SHDP as a transformational initiative and assured legislative support to facilitate its successful implementation.

The event also featured goodwill messages from key stakeholders, including representatives from Civil Society Organizations, National Health Insurance Authority, World Health Organization (WHO), and State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. Each commended ASHIA for its forward-thinking approach to healthcare.

The launch of the Strategic Health Development Plan marked the climax of the ceremony, reinforcing Anambra State’s commitment to building a robust and inclusive healthcare system. With this plan, ASHIA aims to improve health outcomes, enhance equity, and provide financial protection for residents as the state advances toward achieving UHC by 2030.

*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

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