By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ifeanyi Nwegbu/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo :
The National Population Commission (NPC) has launched the 2024 Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) study in Anambra State, aimed at investigating the causes of maternal and child mortality. Interestingly, four local government areas, including Onitsha North, Ayamelum, Nnewi South, and Orumba South, were excluded from the study due to their impressive records of low child and maternal deaths in previous surveys.
The Federal Commissioner representing Anambra State, Chidi Ezeoke, noted that the exclusion of these LGAs highlighted the progress made in reducing maternal and child mortality in these areas.
Ezeoke, who was represented by the State Director of NPC, Dr. Kingsley Okereke, made this known during the launch of the 2024 VASA study in Awka. He explained that the VASA study was designed to investigate the causes of maternal and child mortality, focusing on social and health-related factors.
“The VASA study is a critical tool in our efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality in Nigeria. By understanding the causes of these deaths, we can develop targeted interventions to prevent them and improve health outcomes for women and children.”
The study, which commenced on November 4, will run until December 15, 2024, in 17 selected local government areas of the state. The NPC is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health to implement the study nationwide.
Achukwu-jide, Nwegbu and Mokwugwo are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
Anambra youths have been advised to explore the benefits of traditional wrestling and other traditional sports as another source of income, fame and fulfillment.
The call was made at Isu Ebii village Oba, Idemili South LGA by the High Priest of Holy Sabbath of Christ the Lord Yahweh Synagogue/ HLCM Yahweh Synagogue, Priest Noble Chibueze Mmuonapuapu during the burial ceremony of his mother, Late Ezinne/Shepherd-Mother Anthonia Ogonna Onwusika who passed on earlier this year at age 64.
“We are going back to nature, our traditional and cultural sporting events which we Igbos were known for in the olden days. What people watch on TV as Pro Wrestling are mostly Film techniques and acted but Igbo wrestling is pure exhibition of skills, physical strength and dexterity.
“We use every opportunity to promote our culture like TWC ‘Mgba Azueluani’, gymnastics ‘Ikwu ugba, etc. These local sports can attract tourism , and generate revenue for the state as well as be an alternative source of income to our unemployed youths. One can become a celebrity through local sports if developed and promoted by both private individuals and government,” he said.
Many dignitaries were present to commiserate with Priest Chibueze of HLCM Yahweh Synagogue popularly called ‘Mmuonapuapu one of the Prelates in the Sabbath Group of Churches and a member of PMAN, the National Secretary SVF Comrade Solomon Onwusika and thier siblings who lost their mother praying that God would give the bereaved the fortitude to bear the loss of their Late Mum.
According to Priest Chibueze, I and my six siblings will miss my Late Mum Ezinne Anthosco de Capable. She was so caring, She pampers me a lot, and most of all was her hospitality. You can never come around her without eating her food. We have taken after her legacies.
“So, We decided to give her a befitting burial that is why my friends, musicians from different places are here today. Moreover, as a lover of culture and traditional wrestling and sports, the TWC wrestlers and entertainment are here to entertain my people and showcase strength. If you say you are strong you can come forth and contend with the champion and go home with a prize,” Priest Chimezie said.
The TWC Champion, Okwuchukwu Okeke Okamgba Ijele who also commiserated with the mourners advised youths to exploit the benefits of traditional wrestling and sports which if well packaged can be a source of tourism, personal income and even a source of revenue generation for the state government. “In the olden days ladies fall in love with traditional wrestlers because they believe their husband will be strong enough to protect them. Wrestling also keeps you physically and mentally fit.
Moreover, Chairman Sunny Star Hotel, Nze Sunday Agina, a relative to the deceased family said in his condolence message that the reason why people have children is for the offspring to take care of them later in life and bury them not the other way round, praying God to replenish the burial expenses. “I saw the performance of the traditional wrestlers and I hope that we Igbos will embrace, invest and promote our culture including traditional wrestling instead of only watching American WrestleMania.
Also, Mrs Ebelechukwu Chibueze, daughter in law described mama as her confidant, counselor and guide who loved and treated her as one of her biological daughters when she married into the family.”Shepherd-Mother was my sister from Nnewi too my hometown. Her caring in church gave me the courage to accept to get married to someone from Oba community”.
The first daughter, Adachukwu Sandra said: “Mama was a virtuous woman, God fearing, peaceful, never interested in quarrelling or dragging anything with anyone. She wished that we her children knew God more than she does and that we are willing to do”.
Moreover, the Head Teacher of Community Model Primary School Akabo Ojoto, Mrs Precious Edoziobi described the late Matriarch as an industrious, efficient and effective administrator when she was the Pioneer Head Teacher of their school, saying that was why the Parents Teachers Association of the school decided to come for condolence despite the fact that the deceased retired over four years ago.
The trio of DG/CEO ASWAMA and National Convener Soludo Volunteer Force SVF, Hon Mike Ozoemena, Founder SVF, Nze Yahweh Onyebuchi Okoye, Woman Leader SVF, Mrs Bekee Udeoogalanya in their seperate speeches empathized with the second son of the deceased and SVF National Secretary, Comrade Solomon Onwusika for his loss, urging him to take heart.
“We the members of SVF a strong support group that is creating awareness on Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s Achievements and mobilizing voters to ensure that he returns for a second term as Governor are here to encourage our Secretary, praying God to fill the vacuum created by their mother’s death,” they said.
Other dignitaries who commiserated with the Onwusika family include Prof. Arthur Anyabolu of Chidozie Memorial hospital, Senior All Stars club, Mrs Chibugwu Ofor of Sharon Kitchen Asaba.
The deceased family prayed God to bless all the friends, relatives and well wishers who came from far and near to commiserate with them in their period of mourning and grant them safe journey back to their various destinations.
Highlights of the occasion was when the famous Gospel Artist, Gozie Okeke took over the stage to charge the occasion with his sonorous voice to the fascination of the audience and the traditional wrestling bouts slated for a day before the burial.
*Uzochukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
In a bid to intensifying the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination exercise in the State, the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH), and Partners has held a one day Stakeholders Engagement meeting.
The meeting held in Awka had in attendance; PHC Directors, Social Mobilization Officers (SMOs), Traditional Rulers, Religious leaders, President General’s, Youths, and Women Group Leaders, Representatives of Education Ministry and ASUBEB, Representatives of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and the Media, among other key stakeholders.
The overall aim of the meeting was review of implementation of the HPV vaccine across the state and planning for the upcoming HPV vaccine intensification.
Its specific objectives includes; sharing lessons learned from the HPV vaccine introduction, review progress/challenges and best practices for HPV vaccination in Anambra State, and engage expanded partners to garner insights and recommendations on improving HPV vaccine coverage as well as share update on the proposed targeted intensification exercise.
The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem represented by the Director Disease Control and Immunization Department, ASPHCDA, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi noted that the intensification exercise was being sponsored by the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI).
She explained that the HPV vaccination was to aid curb the menace of cancer which comes with a lot of financial obligations, stress and pain to both the patients and their families.
“The Human Papilloma Virus has taken lives of many people in the country including prominent people, and this is the reason why the vaccination is important as it will aid prevent the virus from causing harm to an infected person.”
According to the ES, diseases prevention save lives, among a host of other things which includes saving from economic loss which the illness may cause.
She urged the Stakeholders to be Ambassadors and help spread the message at the grassroots as Government and Partners aim was to save lives and for the people to enjoy benefits of vaccination.
CHAI Technical Assistant, Mr Patrick Akpan explained that globally, vaccination against HPV has been proven to be a highly effective method of preventing HPV infections and subsequent cervical cancer.
“The introduction of the HPV vaccine can significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases,” he said.
He noted that in Nigeria, the Routinization of the HPV vaccine is particularly crucial due to the high burden of cervical cancer and the limitations of secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities to manage and treat advanced cancer cases effectively.
Mr Obinna Ezem, CHAI Technical Assistant, noted the Anambra HPV vaccine intensification which would commence from 3rd to 7th December 2024 was targeted at three Local Government Areas (LGAs) namely; Aguata, Idemili North and Orumba North LGAs respectively.
He noted that the essence was to improve HPV vaccination uptake in a 5-day intensification exercise, to strengthen Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilization (ACSM) activities in the identified LGAs toward improving HPV vaccine uptake, and to vaccinate eligible girls yet to be vaccinated.
“Strategy to be used includes: leveraging fixed post and outreach programs to intensify HPV vaccine efforts, target LGAs with the highest unvaccinated adolescent girls, and engaging existing state structures for targeted mobilization,” Mr Ezem explained.
He noted the project scope to include; Anambra, Borno, Gombe, Kaduna, Niger, Ondo, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Yobe, Kano, Nasarawa, Bauchi and Lagos States respectively.
Traditional Rulers present at the meeting were: Traditional Ruler of Uke and Paramount Traditional Ruler of Idemili North, His Royal Highness – Igwe Charles Agbala, Traditional Ruler of Ndiokpalaeze in Orumba North LGA His Royal Highness of – Eze F C Okoli, and Traditional Ruler of Uga Aguata LGA, His Royal Highness, Igwe C S Ezenwugo.
*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
By Enoch Uzuegbunam/Chioma Akaogu/Jacinta Muodebelu :
Hon. Echezona Anazodo, the Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, has demonstrated his commitment to infrastructural development in Nnewi by supervising the ongoing road project at the popular Nnewi Bank Road.
As a dedicated public servant, Anazodo has been making waves in Nnewi since his ascension as the elected Chairman. His hands-on approach to governance ensures that the roads meet the standard and are delivered within the slated time.
On Nov. 27, Anazodo inspected the ongoing road project, showcasing his focus on improving the lives of citizens through strategic infrastructure monitoring. By overseeing the project’s progress, Anazodo ensures that the road meets the required standards, benefiting the community and enhancing economic growth.
This move by the Anazodo Administration is a testament to his dedication to the people of Nnewi North.
Enoch/Chioma/Jacinta are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
After his payment of the accumulated electricity bills of over 18 years ago by Anaocha Local Government, the Mayor of the LGA, Hon. Rome Ibekwe has installed EEDC prepaid meter in the various departments of the Secretariat to ensure timely payment of utility as it is pay before service.
Speaking, Hon. Ibekwe said that on his assumption of office, he discovered and payed all the debts owed by the local government before his regime to ensure optimum power supply that will augment the insufficient and weakling solar supply.
He said that steady power supply in the Secretariat will enhance workers productivity and service delivery.
“I am committed to fulfilling my campaign promises to ensure the reality of greater Anaocha,” Hon. Ibekwe said.
Barr. Peter Emeneh, Deputy Mayor of Anaocha lgat, said that the Ibekwe led administration of the council area came in prepared to work for the people.
He said that the installation and reconnection of electricity supply is like a miracle that is going round all the departments in the Secretariat and is felt by all to ensure comfort and smooth running of the day to day activities of the LG council.
Barr. Emeneh said that their administration will bring lasting solution to all existing problems so that Anaocha will soar.
Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Asonibe, Councillor representing Aguluzigbo said that the inverter on ground has been developing series of fault since their assumption of office and serves only few offices as such, the chairman took the bull by the horn through paying the accumulated bill and installation of the new prepared meter so that every area of the Secretariat feels and embraces the light of change.
“Electricity will help even the health department in preservation of vaccines and medications. It will help maximize output by the work force to better Anaocha and Anambra State at large,” She said.
The Adazi-Enu Councillor, Hon. Nnabuike Ezenwugo, described Hon. Ibekwe as a result oriented chairman, commending him for his step in the right direction of fulfilling his campaign promises.
*Chidimma and Ngozi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo/Ifeanyi Nwegbo :
The Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, has officially assigned portfolios to the seven newly appointed supervisory councillors confirmed by the Onitsha legislative arm last week.
The supervisors and their respective portfolios include; Hon. Chinedu Romanus Eze, Education; Hon. Ngozi Ezediniru, Environment; Hon. Nancy Nkiruka Abadom, Finance; Hon. Ikechukwu Oguiyi, Security & Peace Committee; and Hon. Mrs Justina Nkiruka Omaliko, Agriculture.
While Hon. Andrew Chike Nwanosike and Hon. Nnamdi Michael Melifonwu are for Health and Works respectively.
During the portfolio assignment ceremony, Mayor Nwora congratulated the supervisors, urging them to serve with integrity, transparency and passion.
He expressed confidence in their abilities to contribute positively to the development of Onitsha North LGA.
“The role of supervisory councillors is crucial in achieving our vision of transforming Onitsha North into a livable, clean, and prosperous smart city. I charge you all to work tirelessly, bringing innovative ideas and dedicated service to your respective departments,” he emphasized.
The assignment of portfolios marks a significant milestone in the administration’s efforts to deliver effective governance and development to the people of Onitsha North LGA.
*Kelechi, Ogochukwu and Ifeanyi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Chief Emeka Orji, has commended the National Chairman of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) party, Chief Sly Ezeokenwa, over his victory against a self acclaimed factional leader of APGA, Chief Edozie Njoku, at Supreme Court Wednesday.
Making the commendation, Orji expressed satisfaction with the judgement, adding that it has laid to rest all issues over who is the national chairman of the party and advised Njoku that the will of the majority of the people will always prevail.
Orji described APGA as a mass Movement party that serves as vehicle that will lead the people to the promise land even as he described the victory as that of APGA and good people who believe in democracy.
According to him Gov. Chukwuma Soludo is not surprise with the victory because Gov. Soludo is so occupied with planning on how to move the state forward and can not condescend so low to look at a case that distract him from moving the state forward.
He, however, admitted that Gov. Soludo has been informed of the victory which according to him did not come as surprise as Njoku would not have won.
He commended the judges, APGA faithful and Stakeholders for their prayers for the victory and prayed that the party will continue to move forward.
Note that the Supreme Court has upheld an appeal by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), recognising Sly Ezeokenwa as its National Chairman.
In a judgement on Wednesday, the court also awarded N20 million fine against Edozie Njoku for filing a frivolous suit at FCT High Court, Bwari.
A few days ago, the Federal High Court in Abuja restrained Njoku from parading himself as the national chairman of the party.
Justice James Omotosho, in a judgement, held that there was no valid court judgement or order, including a judgement from the Supreme Court, that recognised Mr Njoku as APGA National Chairman.
In the originating summons filed on 12 July, the plaintiffs sued the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Mr Njoku as 1st and 2nd defendants.
They filed the suit following the removal of the names of Mr Ezeokenwa, a legal practitioner, and his executive officers from the INEC website, and the replacement of same by the names of the Njoku-led leadership of APGA by the electoral umpire on 9 July.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Omotosho held that INEC was wrong to have recognised the Njoku-led leadership of the party.
*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo/Ifeanyi Nwegbo :
Senior citizens have been advised to make food their medicine, as the old adage goes.
Ogugua Onyeachonam, a preventive health specialist, gave this advice during the National Union of Pensioners, Onitsha Chapter’s end-of-year meeting at the Onitsha North Local Government Secretariat.
According to Onyeachonam, the food you eat will either keep you or harm you. She emphasised the importance of older people eating more natural foods, citing local rice as a better option than polished rice. “Avoid the intake of processed food,” she warned.
Onyeachonam also reminded the men in attendance that prostate issues are a common experience for many men.
Drawing from her personal experience as a health practitioner who neglected her own health while caring for others, resulting in her having a stroke, Onyeachanam urged everyone to prioritise self-care. “You are your own best doctor,” she said.
In line with this advice, research has equally shown that a balanced diet rich in natural foods can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, while whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provide essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being.
Therefore, by making informed food choices and adopting healthy eating habits, retirees can reduce their risk of chronic diseases and maintain their physical and mental health as they age.
Meanwhile, the Vice Chairman, NUP, Onitsha chapter, Dr Amaka Osemenam confirmed that she has received her retirement benefits from the state government and encouraged other retirees to take control of their finances by investing in treasury bills.
Dr Osemenam explained that investing in treasury bills is a low-risk option that can provide a steady stream of income, pointing out that the interest rate and duration may vary per time.
*Kelechi, Ogochukwu and Ifeanyi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
Governor Chukwuma Soludo has announced a five-year sponsorship of BECE and WAEC examination fees for all JSS3 and SS3 students of Uga Boys Secondary School, Uga, his alma mater.
During his visit to the school, Gov. Soludo rolled out plans to transform the institution into a modern smart school. The upgrades will include restoring boarding facilities, constructing modern teachers’ quarters, principal’s lodge, and improving the school’s road networks, water supply, and power infrastructure.
Describing the visit as an emotional “homecoming,” Soludo, a pioneer student and the first Senior Prefect of the school, emphasized his commitment to restoring the school to its former glory. He praised its history of producing outstanding individuals who have excelled in various fields.
“The quality of teachers determines the quality of learning, which directly impacts the progress of society,” Soludo remarked. He commended the school’s dedication to shaping future leaders and reiterated the government’s ongoing investments to turn selected schools in Anambra State into model smart schools. These institutions will serve as benchmarks for statewide modernization.
The Governor also urged the Uga community to take collective responsibility for safeguarding government assets under the Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) initiative, cautioning against theft and vandalisation.
During the event, the school’s Principal, Mr. Igwedinma Benjamin, and Senior Prefect, Master Chinago Chidumebi, expressed gratitude for the governor’s transformative efforts in the education sector. They also appealed for further support to enhance the school and address vandalism by miscreants.
Highlights of the visit included a cash award of ₦100,000 to Senior Prefect Chinago Chidumebi for his eloquent welcome address delivered in Igbo. The school also presented Gov. Soludo with a portrait honoring his role as the institution’s first Senior Prefect.
The event was attended by key figures such as the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma Udeh, the Chairman of the Post Primary School Service Commission,(PPSSC) Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu, and representatives from neighboring schools, including Girls Secondary School Uga and Community Secondary School, Uga.
*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
