News

ANAMBRA STATE REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO NET ZERO EMISSIONS

By Lilian Ezejiegu and Onyebuchi Aniedozie :

Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing a green and just transition to net zero emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. This was reiterated during a 2-day event held in Awka, supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

The Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu emphasized the state’s resolve to create a sustainable future.

He highlighted the existing initiatives, including the Anambra State Environmental Protection and Administrative Law 2024, which establishes a robust framework for climate adaptation, pollution control, and waste management.

According to him, Anambra State in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the European Union aims to strengthen its legal and regulatory frameworks, promote renewable energy and resource efficiency, and build resilient partnerships to drive sustainable development.

Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs Chinyere Nwabachili expressed gratitude to the UNIDO team for initiating the circular economy concept.

According to her, the concept of a circular economy where resources are continually reused, recycled and regenerated is one that holds immerse potential for creating a more sustainable and reputable future. It aligns with the global drive to mitigate climate change while fostering economic development.

Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Mr. Julius Chukwuemeka,

stated that the ministry is promoting the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power to light up streets across Anambra State. He noted that streetlights initiative is expected to improve safety and security in the state, particularly at night.

The MD/CEO, Anambra State Erosion, Watershed and Climate Change Agency, Prof.Philip phil-Eze, noted that by adopting circular economy principles, Anambra State can reduce green house gas emissions, promote sustainable land use, and mitigate soil erosion, while protecting watersheds and reducing the risk of flooding, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable, climate resilient and environmentally conscious future.

UNIDO delegation lead, Mr Oluyomi Banjo said that the organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) that promotes industrial development and sustainable development globally. He explained that Anambra State is one of the selected core beneficiaries under component 2 of the project. The aim is to work with state government institutions to strengthen their capacity to develop legal and regulatory framework.

The meeting was attended by stakeholders from the state Ministry of Environment ,private institutions, private sectors, NGOs, PRO, Association, Educational institutions among others.

* Ezejiegu and Aniedozie are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ASHIA WINS MOST INNOVATIVE MDA AWARDS

By Chisom Okafor :

The Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) has been celebrated as the Most Innovative Ministry, Department, and Agency (MDA) in Anambra State during the recently concluded Anambra Innovation Week (AIW) program. This distinguished recognition highlights ASHIA’s outstanding use of digital technology to enhance its operations and improve healthcare service delivery across the state.

In addition to the prestigious award, ASHIA received a cash prize of N2million as part of the honor.

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, who was present at the award ceremony, lauded ASHIA for setting a high standard in service delivery and contributing significantly to his administration’s vision of making Anambra a model state for quality and affordable healthcare.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, expressed profound gratitude to the dedicated ASHIA team for their relentless efforts in driving innovation within the agency. He emphasized that the adoption of cutting-edge technology has not only transformed the internal processes of ASHIA but has also played a critical role in expanding access to quality healthcare services for the residents of Anambra State.

Dr. Onyemaechi attributed the success of the agency to the commitment of the Anambra State Government under the leadership of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo. He commended the governor’s support and investment in innovative solutions that strengthens the healthcare system.

The AIW program, which celebrates creativity and innovation in solving societal challenges, provided a platform to showcase ASHIA’s efforts in leveraging technology for health insurance coverage. The agency’s initiatives, including the seamless enrollment process, efficient claim management, and transparency in service delivery, were noted as benchmarks of excellence.

This recognition further solidifies ASHIA’s position as a trailblazer in healthcare innovation. The agency’s commitment to utilizing modern tools and techniques to meet the health insurance needs of the people of Anambra State demonstrates its dedication to excellence. By prioritizing accessibility and quality, ASHIA continues to enhance the health and well-being of its beneficiaries, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic growth of the state.

*Okafor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT TRAINS HEALTH WORKERS ON TELEMEDICINE FOR ENHANCE HEALTHCARE DELIVERY

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

Anambra State Government has launched a comprehensive training program aimed at equipping health workers across the state with essential skills in telemedicine. This was disclosed at a 2 day training held in Awka for medical personnel aimed at enhancing their ability to offer remote healthcare services.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike said the initiative designed to bridge the gap in healthcare access is part of government’s broader efforts to integrate technology into the healthcare sector. According to him, Anambra is the first state in Nigeria that introduced telemedicine in healthcare system.

He further said, “telemedicine is a game-changer. It enables healthcare professionals to reach patients who otherwise would have to travel long distances to see a doctor. This will improve patient outcomes and make healthcare more affordable.The program included hands-on sessions and real-life case studies, ensuring that participants are not only familiar with the technology but also with its practical application in patient care.

Dr. Obidike noted that all the necessary gadgets have been deployed to 326 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state with 47 Medical Doctors dedicated to the Telemedicine Centres in the 21 LGAs of the state.

He emphasised that Governor Soludo on assumption of office commissioned Telemedicine Hub in Awkuzu and promised to extend it across the state.

“As the program continues to roll out, Anambra State aims to lead in healthcare innovation in Nigeria, with telemedicine being an essential tool in addressing the growing demand for medical services amidst a shortage of healthcare infrastructure in some areas,” he maintained.

INSTALLATION OF SOLAR STREET LIGHTS ACROSS AWKA METROPOLIS, NOT AMONG MEMOS APPROVED AT THE LAST ANAMBRA STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

PRESS STATEMENT

INSTALLATION OF SOLAR STREET LIGHTS ACROSS AWKA METROPOLIS, NOT AMONG MEMOS APPROVED AT THE LAST ANAMBRA STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING

At the 35th Anambra State Executive Council Meeting, held at the Council chambers in Awka, the council debated extensively the memo on the installation of solar-powered street lights in Awka metropolis and resolved as follows:

— That the unit cost was on the high side and should be reviewed downward.

The memo was thus stepped down and was rescheduled for re-presentation at the next ANSEC meeting where all specifications would be available.

The slip in the last release, which reported the street light project as having been awarded is therefore regretted and should be treated as such. The public will be updated when a decision is eventually taken on the matter.

Law Mefor, PhD

Commissioner for Information

Anambra State

DR MEFOR VISITS ANAMBRA AIRPORT, SAYS SOLUDO’S UPLIFTING AIRPORT FOR ECONOMIC UNRAVELLING OF ANAMBRA

By Rose Oranye :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, paid a working visit to the Chinụa Achebe International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri.

The Commissioner, who was received and conducted around the airport by the Managing Director of the airport, Martins Nwafor, lauded the efforts of the MD in the operations of the facility, adding that Ndị Anambra are lucky to have a diplomat and international aviator of repute to be in charge of the airport.

Mefor noted that 400,000 passengers in 7000 flights in 2-3 years without night flights is quite impressive and assured of the Soludo Government’s continued support of the facility, even as he announced Mr Governor’s plan to construct a VIP Lounge in the airport in a matter of weeks.

According to Mefor: “You are doing quite well. Of course, the support of the Soludo government is obvious. Naturally, you would expect more. I’m aware that more is coming. For example, the governor wants to construct a VIP lounge in a matter of weeks from now. Mr. Governor wants it so the VIPs using the Anambra Airport can have that VIP treatment in the real sense. And of course, you also mentioned the night landing facility. I know a contract has been awarded so that the flights can land at night here. Once that is done, it becomes possible for you to expand the volume of your operations. What you have done so far—400,000 passengers in 2-3 years without night flights—is quite impressive. By the time you can land flights at night, you could double your passengers.

“You hit the bull’s eye when you talked about an airport being an enabler in economic development. The Soludo administration recognises that fact. That is why the governor is giving this level of attention to the airport. I believe that between now and next year, so much will be done beyond the things I have said. It’s because he recognises that the airport is pivotal to his plan for major economic unravelling and transformation of Anambra State. Soludo wants to reverse the trend—Anambra as a departure point to Anambra as a destination for investors and tourists.”

Mefor maintained that the Anambra Mixed Use Industrial City, or simply Anambra Industrial Park, was all about economic and industrial unravelling and transformation of the state, and the airport was crucial to the actualisation of the industrial, rebranding, and tourism objectives of the government.

Earlier, the Managing Director of the airport, Martins Nwafor, said that only two commercial airlines were currently using the airport and that plans are underway to bring in more airlines.

He said the airport has the best runway in Nigeria with a total distance of 3.7 kilometres, the second longest in Nigeria with 45 meters of width, which is the capacity for Boeing 748-800 series aircraft.

“And we have a well-calibrated instrument landing system, including a localiser and glide slope, and a very high-frequency omnidirectional radio range. These give the direction and bearing to flights.

“Our departure hall can take about 400 passengers, our arrival hall can take about 600 passengers at a time with ICAO facilitation standard, while our car park can take about 750 cars even though we don’t see the cars,” he said.

He disclosed that the Chinua Achebe Airport was planning an airport trade fair between Dec. 1st and 7th, which would be the third anniversary of commercial operations at the airport.

According to him, the fair would be an opportunity for flight operators, passengers, and the general public to showcase their products and interact for economic and social benefits, even as the anniversary would mark the unveiling of the airport name and also the unveiling of the statue of Chinua Achebe.

NDI ANAMBRA M JI EME ONU, WELCOME TO THE MONTH OF DECEMBER

ANAMBRA GOVT IN COLLABORATION WITH EUROLAC REVIEWS ANTI- CORRUPTION PRACTICES IN THE STATE

By MaryAnn Chukwuma :

The Anambra State Government in collaboration with the European Union Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme has organised meetings to review the operation and achievements of the Anti-Corruption Committee in the first phase.

The Anti-Corruption one week long meeting held at Finotel hotel, Awka is geared toward appraising the functionality and modalities with which the Anti-Corruption Committee members performed, their achievements and ways to better serve so as to have a more transparent and government devoid of corrupt practices.

In her opening remark, the Anambra State Head of Service (HOS), Barr. Okwy Igwegbe, called on the participants and members of the anti-corruption committee in the various MDAs to take note of the gaps in the first phase which spanned for four years.

The HOS, who was ably represented by the Administrator-General/Public Prosecutor Anambra State, Thessy Obuekwe, advised the ACC to ensure that the aim for the collaboration is not defeated bearing in mind that they were the hub of this synergy against corruption, highlighting the need for proactiveness in identifying loopholes and impending misnomer which appears as a misconduct or corrupt practice.

The Civil Service boss, however, urged that they ensure to work with the Anti-Corruption Secretariat which is the provided way to call erring parties to order and sanction if need be. She further told the Anti-Corruption Committee whom she described as the foot soldiers to ensure that they are not seen witch hunting and confrontational but to always maintain due process and the rule of law.

The State Project Coordinator, Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption programme, Mrs. Josephine Onah in her welcome address thanked the members of the government, the Anti-Corruption Committee and other members of RoLAC for participating in the second phase of the Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC 2).

She noted that this second phase is captured by a document, the Anambra State Anti-Corruption Strategy, which was designed to better implement the activities and functions of Anti-Corruption Committee in the state.

Onah noted that the document gives live to strategies designed to better bridge the gaps experienced in the first phase while ensuring that better results are achieved in this second phase.

The State Coordinator highlighted that the RoLAC is operational in 36 countries with the aim of helping governments achieve good governance which will benefit the masses.

On her part, the Lead Consultant for RoLAC and Anti Corruption Strategy, Dr. Ada Igboekwe called on participants to put in their best so as to achieve the aim of the course which will translate into accountability, transparency and equity in government for better governance.

Igboekwe, then, commended the government for showing sufficient will power and openness in curbing corrupt practices among its workers for better governance.

*Mary Ann is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA STATE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION BUILDING GETS FACELIFT

By Ernestina Udeh :

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has embarked on total renovation of Anambra State Civil Service Commission building.
This effort aims to strengthen the structure and provide a conducive working environment that fosters efficiency and effectiveness among commission members and civil servants.

The Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Tony Ezenwaka, commended the governor for renovating the Commission’s building, making it a conducive workspace. Despite the temporary inconveniences caused by the ongoing renovation, Ezenwaka expressed joy at witnessing this significant transformation during his tenure .

Speaking on behalf of the Commission’s staff, the officer in charge of management Mr Obalimu Madubueze described the renovation as “a dream come true.”

Udeh is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA CIVIL SERVANTS REJOICE AS COMMISSION RELEASES BACKLOGGED PROMOTIONS

By Ernestina Udeh :

Anambra State Civil Service Commission has started releasing the 2021/2022 civil servants promotions. The delay in the release of the promotion was due to the absence of Commission Members.

The Chairman of Civil Service Commission, Mr. Tony Ezenwaka and his Commission Members worked tirelessly to see the release of the promotions within one month of their assumption of duty.

The release of the backlogged promotions was met with jubilation from civil servants across all ministries. They expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Commission Members. The civil servants are also optimistic that the governor will soon approve the 2023/2024 promotions.

Udeh is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ONITSHA NORTH MAYOR NWORAH RECEIVES AWARD OF EXECLLENCE

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

Charismatic Bishop’s Conference of Nigeria, Anambra State chapter.has presented an Award of Excellence to the Mayor of Onitsha North, Mr. Tony Nworah for his examplary leadership and dedication to effective grassroot governance.

Presenting the award, the duo of Arch Bishop Dr. Mike Chukwudum and Bishop Dr D.C Okeleke highlighted the unwavering commitment of the Mayor to the progress and development of Onitsha North.

The Chairman of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Mr .Tony Nwora expressed gratitude for the honour bestowed upon him. He vowed to continue working tirelessly for the people of Onitsha and its environs, noting that the award was a testament to the positive change under his administration and promised never to let the people of Onitsha North down.