News

ANAMBRA: THE EMERGING TOURISM HAVEN

By Uche Kalu :

On Sunday, October 13th, 2024, Anambra State was abuzz with excitement as the Anambra Picnic and Funfair took over the state-of-the-art Film Village in Awka. This highly anticipated event united families, friends, and thrill-seekers of all ages, transforming the venue into a dynamic hotspot of entertainment, laughter and joy.

The picnic and funfair offered an unforgettable experience, featuring:

Thrilling games and activities, scintillating music and dance performances, delicious local cuisine and refreshing treats.

Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, partnered with the Anambra State Tourism Volunteers Network (TV) to host the prestigious event. The TV Network, comprising passionate tourism enthusiasts, focuses on promoting tourism’s vast benefits and fostering its growth in the state.

The event’s success underscores Anambra’s commitment to promoting tourism, cultural heritage, and community bonding. As the state continues to invest in initiatives like the Film Village, Anambra solidifies its position as a premier destination for leisure, entertainment and cultural exploration in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Culture and Entertainment, Mr Don Onyenji emphasised the importance of cultural events in promoting unity and social cohesion.

According to him, “this picnic and funfair is more than just entertainment; it’s about celebrating our rich cultural heritage and fostering community bonding. Anambra State is committed to supporting initiatives that showcase our unique identity and promote tourism development.”

He maintained that globally, tourism has emerged as the new oil and gas, driving economic growth and development. According to him, if Anambra State fully develops its tourism sector, it could become the next richest state in Nigeria in a remarkably short time.

Onyenji further noted that the present administration has intentionally embraced tourism project and also committed billions of naira in tourism development in the state, both through its policies, programmes, and physical projects.

Anambra State is already recognized for its vibrant commercial activities and entrepreneurship. By harnessing its tourism potential, the state can further diversify its economy, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, agricultural strengths and strategic location. With continued investment and support, Anambra is poised to climb the economic ladder, potentially surpassing other states in the near future.

The commissioner elaborated on the governor’s vision for Anambra, aiming to transform it into a thriving homeland where residents can live, work, unwind, and enjoy themselves. Key projects underway to achieve this vision include the groundbreaking Solution Fun City Awka (SFCA), Sub-Saharan Africa’s first-of-its-kind entertainment hub, boasting a country club, amusement park, and sports facilities. Other notable initiatives include the Neighbourhood Leisure Park in Awka and the construction of a massive ten-storey hotel also in Awka.

These developments underscore the governor’s commitment to making Anambra an attractive destination for residents and tourists alike, ultimately boosting the state’s economy and prosperity. By investing in infrastructure and entertainment, Anambra is poised to become a model for liveability and economic growth in Nigeria.

“The development of the Solution Fun City alone will create numerous job opportunities and serve as a central hub for leisure and tourism in the state,” Onyenji stated.

He further explained that Governor Soludo is transforming Anambra into a tourist haven, beyond the impressive Solution Fun City. Significant projects underway include the retrofitting and expansion of the Igboukwu Museum, home to a rich collection of Igbo cultural artifacts.

The Agulu Lake Leisure Park is also being developed, with plans for an artificial beach, offering exciting recreational opportunities. These initiatives will cement Anambra’s status as a premier tourist destination in Nigeria, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

He also explained that the state government is making significant strides in promoting rural tourism by developing and showcasing heritage sites across various communities. Key sites include: Ogbunike Cave, Owerre-Ezukala Waterfalls, Anam Sand Beach and the historic Ojukwu Bunker in Amorka, which played a pivotal role during the Nigerian Civil War among others.

Unveiling the Anambra State Chapter of the Tourism Volunteers Network, he emphasized the importance of collaboration to boost the sector. To ensure tourism development reaches beyond urban areas, the state government is actively engaging with local communities to establish leisure parks, promoting grassroots growth and community involvement.

“Anambra State is home to numerous natural and historical treasures that are yet to be fully explored. Our goal is to bring these attractions to the forefront, not just for entertainment or for tourism development, but also to preserve our rich cultural heritage,” he said.

The commissioner extended an invitation to investors to consider Anambra State, highlighting its vast tourism potential, numerous investment opportunities, and status as the safest and most conducive state for investments in the country.

Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, represented by the Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, Ambassador Phil Robert praised Anambra’s tourism potentials and commended the state government’s innovative approach and commitment to boosting tourism.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including Prince Chinedu Okafor, Chairman of Awka South Local Government, and Mr. Chinedu Obidigwe, former National Assembly member representing Anambra East/West Federal Constituency. Also in attendance was Chidi Uzowulu, State Coordinator of Anambra Tourism Volunteers Network, along with numerous other dignitaries. They collectively acknowledged Anambra’s vast natural resources and tourism potential, praising the current administration’s efforts to develop and harness these assets.

Kalu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

JONAPWD URGES NEWLY ELECTED LGA LEADERS TO CHAMPION DISABILITY INCLUSION IN GOVERNANCE

By Chidimma Ajemba :

The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State Chapter, has congratulated the newly elected local government area chairmen and councillors on their successful elections. The association, which advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities, called on the newly appointed leaders to prioritize inclusivity in their governance approach.

In a press release signed by the JONAPWD State Chairman, Comr. Ugochukwu Ernest C. Okeke, the association acknowledged the hard-earned trust the citizens of Anambra placed in the newly elected officials, urging them to use their new positions to foster equitable representation for all members of society.

A key request made by JONAPWD Anambra is for the appointment of persons with disabilities as Special Assistants on disability matters at the local government level.

According to the organization, including disabled persons in governance will enhance the policymaking process by ensuring that their specific needs are addressed and considered.

They emphasized that such appointments would not only support equity and justice but also empower the disabled community by giving them a platform to contribute to local governance.

The association referenced the Anambra State Disability Rights Law of 2018, Section 52, Subsection 1, which calls for the full participation of persons with disabilities in politics and public life without discrimination.

“This is an important step in creating inclusive communities, and we believe that by leveraging the leadership of the newly elected chairmen and councillors, positive changes will be made towards building accessible local governments across Anambra State,” said Comr. Okeke.

They further expressed optimism about the future and pledged their full support to the new local government leaders, stating their readiness to collaborate on initiatives that promote inclusivity and equal representation in governance.

The association’s call is a crucial move to ensure the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are given due attention in the new administration in the 21 local government areas of the state.

Ajemba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

FEDERAL LAWMAKER ADVOCATES FOR UNITY BETWEEN LOCAL AND NATIONAL LEADERS

By Ifeanyi Nwegbo :

Member representing Anambra East and West at the green chamber, Mr. Peter Aniekwe has urged Anambra East Local Government Chairman, Sir Ifeanyi Chinweze to prioritize collaboration and communication between local and national leaders, saying that the partnership would foster strong relationships and facilitate discussions on legislative updates, address constituents’ concerns, and promote community development project.

Mr Aniekwe made the call during a courtesy to Anambra East Chairman, Sir Ifeanyi Chinweze in his office at the Council headquarters .

He briefed the Chairman on federal initiatives and legislation that will benefit local communities. These initiatives included; funding and support for road construction, public transportation, and community facilities.

Other initiatives were; economic empowerment programs that will foster small business growth, job creation, and workforce development as well as public health and education initiatives, aimed at addressing healthcare disparities, improving access to quality education, and promoting overall community well-being.

The chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, Sir Ifeanyi Chinweze briefed the lawmaker on local issues such as security, infrastructural development, public health, education and economic growth.

He thanked Mr Peter Aniekwe for his great support to Anambra East and Anambra state at large.

Nwegbo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA EDUCATION COMMISSIONER LAUDS AGULU PEOPLES UNION, PLEDGES SUPPORT, PARTNERSHIP

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

Anambra Commissioner For Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma-Udeh has lauded the Agulu Peoples Union(APU) for their foresight in establishing the APU Vocation Academy, Agulu.

Prof Chuma-Udeh gave the commendation at the official opening and first matriculation ceremony of the academy held at the school premises in Agulu.

She said that investing in the future of society is always laudable and showcases a society that is interested in the progress of the community.

“Your projection and interest in the future of the youth are manifest with this school. Youths are in dilemma, they do not know their right from their left, with this Academy, the community is saying that self-sustenance is the best gift one can give to another.

“The acquisition of skill is important in human life; once acquired, it stays with one throughout life unlike a corporate job that one retires from at a certain age,” she posited.

Prof Chuma Udeh asserted that Agulu people have always been known as hardworking people and their proficiency in skill acquisition is also well-known, adding that she is not surprised that they embarked on such a venture.

She assured the community that the present administration will give the academy every support needed to make it an enabling institute for the students while promising to solicit future collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Development as it aligns with Governor Soludo’s 1-Youth, 2-Skills initiative.

In his remarks, the President General of Agulu Peoples Union, Chief Oliver Afamefuna recounted the event that led to the establishment of the Academy, stating that it was borne out of passion to take the youths off the street and social vices such as drug abuse, thuggery and actively engage them in profitable venture via the acquisition of skills in diverse trades.

The Director of APU Vocation Academy, Dr, Emmanuel Duezeh in his address stated that the Academy is not limited to Agulu Indigenes alone but is open to all who are interested in acquiring a skill or two while adding that currently, the Academy is offering 11 courses which cut across bag making, footwear, nylon making electrical works amongst others.

The highlight of the event was a tour of the facility and inspection of some of the products by the Academy by Commissioner Chuma-Udeh and her entourage which included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, and Director of the Technical and Vocational Education, Lady Ngozi Enemuo

Nwankwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

FEDERAL LAWMAKER RECEIVES ACCOLADES FOR OUTSTANDING ONE-YEAR STEWARDSHIP

By Ukpa Ewa :

There was unmitigated flow of commendations Saturday, 26th of October 2024 at Emmaus House Awka, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State when the lawmaker representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency, Prof. Lilian Orogbu, presented her one-year stewardship to constituents

The presentation was made at the event organized by the United Nations Women/National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) step-down programme in Anambra State.

The event brought together representatives from various groups, including clergy, traditional rulers, youths and women organizations, and stakeholders from all 34 wards in Awka to bear witness of the track records of one of the best lawmakers the constituency has ever produced.

Articulating her achievements within one year in office, Prof. Lilian Orogbu disclosed that some of her achievements include reconstruction of classroom blocks at Ezioka Community Secondary School, Agulu Awka Primary School, and Community Primary School, Ikwodiaku.

She further dazzle the public by including the construction of a proposed mini stadium in Achalla, Awka North LGA, and provision of solar power at two health centers in Ezinato and Urum, provision of grants for small business owners, empowerment of 200 widows with grinding and sewing machines, and distribution of fertilizers as some of the few-mentioned projects in the constituency.

The lawmaker who said she secured employment for some constituents and sponsored legislative bill for the establishment of a college of entrepreneurship studies in Awka insisted that legislative work is beyond yes or nay chorus in the chamber.

The ebullient lawmaker and a professor of international repute, attributed her success to the support of her constituents, her late husband’s family, and her dedication to serving the people while describing the 10th National Assembly as “gender-friendly” and expressed her commitment to evolving policies and programs that would benefit her constituents.

In her assessment of the current state government under Prof. Charles Soludo, Orogbu expressed concerns about the insecurities in the state, calling for more focused efforts as he commend him for the road networks in the state.

In his goodwill message, the United Nations representative, Mr. Patrick Nnadozie Udefuna, emphasized the importance of enhancing women’s political representation in Nigeria, citing their proven abilities as leaders and agents of change.

In her remarks, Awka Development Union Women’s Wing, Oge Ekweozor ( Esq),commended the lawmaker, Prof Orogbu for bringing the conference to women in a time like this. She said women participation in politics can be increased via a viable committee and by voting them into elective office during election.

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Prof. Orogbu by the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) Youths, Awka.

Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

UKE COMMUNITY CALLS ON GOVERNMENT TO RESUSCITATE DILAPIDATED ROADS, EASE MOVEMENT OF AGRONOMIC PRODUCTS

By Chris Chikelue :

The President General (PG) of Uke, Idemili North Local Government Area (LGA), Chief Peter Onyejegbu has echoed the voice of his people in calling on the Federal and State Government to come to their aid and fix some major roads which are in bad condition.

He said that repairing the roads will boost the movement and transportation of agronomic products from the area tobotger parts of the state.

Chief Onyejegbu made this plea while discussing with newsmen on the development of the community and how best to deliver dividends of democracy to the grassroots vis-a-vis the Uke community and it’s environ.

He said, “Uke is in Anambra Central Senatorial Zone of the State. It has Ideani, Abatete, Ogidi, Umuoji, Ojoto and Nnobi as its neighbours and our traditional ruler is His Royal Highness, Igwe (Surv) Charles Agbala, the Oranyelu III of Uke”.

Chief Onyejegbu commended his people and said they are hard working, peace loving and predominantly traders, farmers and Captains of Industries.

Discussing the major public celebration of the community, Chief Onyejegbu said, “we celebrate Uzo Iyi Festival every Uka Afor in April and this help to bring the people together to discuss and seek ways of implementing dividends of development in the community”.

He, then, lamented the condition of major roads in the area urging, “both the State & Federal Government to come help us fix our roads especially the Mpia- Ugwuagbugbana -Eke Uke- Igwe Ileka Road.

“This will help to solve the problem of gridlocks our people are always experiencing at the Eke-Agu Abatete junction every festive period.

“Though we as a community through the help of good spirited individuals have always tried to maintain the roads to some extent, to make sure we are not cut-off entirely”.

The PG nevertheless pleaded with his kin men to also support every developmental projects that is being carried out by the town union executive and in extension the state government.

MEFOR URGES JOURNALISTS TO UPHOLD ETHICS, PROFESSIONALISM

By Obinwa Chikaodili / Henrietta Madichie :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has called on media practitioners to uphold the highest standard of ethics and professionalism, emphasizing the need for fair, accurate, and objective reporting to strengthen their credibility as society’s watchdogs.

Dr. Mefor made this appeal on October 25, during a courtesy visit by the state chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), led by its chairperson, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejirika in his office at the Jerome Udorji Secretariat, Awka.

While highlighting the press critical role in ensuring effective governance and promoting democratic dividends, the commissioner urged journalists to prioritize Anambra State in their reporting.

According to him, the achievements of this government are underreported, underscoring the media’s responsibility to shape public perception and spotlight the successes of the administration.

In her remarks, Comrade Ifejika expressed gratitude to the commissioner for the warm reception, reaffirming NAWOJ’s commitment to upholding ethical journalism and pledged the association’s cooperation with the state government to drive meaningful progress.

She was accompanied on the visit by some members of NAWOJ.

*Chikodili, Henrietta are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

DR. MEFOR COMMENDS TECH INITIATIVE IN ANAMBRA STATE

By Uche Igboeli/ Henrietta madichie/ Azuka Nnabufe :

Dr. Law Mefor, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, visited the Innovation Solution District, Government House in Awka to champion the upcoming Innovation Week.

In a discussion with Chinwe Okoli, Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Dr. Mefor praised the initiative to organize the upcoming Tech Project, emphasizing the significance of the Solution Innovation/Tech Week, which aims to leverage technology and innovation to train and empower the youth of Anambra, particularly in gaining vital digital skills for employment.

The commissioner assured that his Ministry is committed to partnering with the initiative through extensive mobilization and awareness efforts. This will involve engaging church leaders, chieftaincy councils, and community representatives to encourage youth participation in the event.

The Special Assistant elaborated on the goals of the Innovation/Tech Week, which is designed to bring together tech innovators and communities from around the world to Anambra State. The event will focus on discussions surrounding ICT and digitization.

Additionally, Okoli announced a competition as part of the week’s activities, where the winner will receive a prize of N1million. The event is set to commence on November 25 and will span an entire week.

Mr. Ikechukwu Anajemba, a tech expert, highlighted the various programs included in the district drive, which encompass digital learning, productivity tools, graphic design, website development, and coding. These learning tracks have previously demonstrated significant success in supporting entrepreneurs and startups in their business growth.

He urged the youth of Anambra to take advantage of this free initiative set forth by the governor, encouraging them to apply and participate actively.

*The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA PRIORITIZES ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, SAYS EDUCATION COMMISSIONER

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma- Udeh has emphasised that the state government is working relentlessly to ensure the state’s academic excellence remains unrivaled.

Speaking at the 2024/2025 WAEC and Education Stakeholders Committee meeting held at the Ministry of Education’s Conference Hall in Awka, the commissioner highlighted the state’s continuous efforts to sustain and surpass its academic achievements.

Professor Chuma-Udeh assured the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) team, led by Branch Controller Mr. Uduak-Akpan, that the ministry remains committed to excellence, stating, “We are not resting on our oars.” She outlined strategic initiatives aimed at further enhancing Anambra’s academic reputation, demonstrating the ministry’s proactive approach to education.

According to her, “one of such initiatives involves the recruitment and deployment of qualified teachers, particularly from remote areas like Anambra East, to address the shortage of educators and ensure students in these regions have uninterrupted access to education throughout the academic year.

“With the recent addition of 8,115 teachers, the state has now exceeded both the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation( UNESCO) and national teacher-student ratio guidelines, a significant milestone,” she noted.

Professor Chuma-Udeh also pointed to several key programs, including the annual teacher’s boot camp, periodic teacher examinations, competency-based capacity development programs, and incentives such as the payment of three years’ counterpart funding for the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

These initiatives, she said, are part of the current administration’s commitment to maintaining top-tier performance in the education sector.

The commissioner underscored the importance of continuous professional development, stating that these programs are designed to equip teachers with the latest advancements in pedagogy and help them refine their skills.

Earlier, the WEAC facilitator, Mrs. Genevieve Chukwudi Nwoko, guided the committee through an in-depth analysis of the various factors contributing to declining student performance, while also offering recommendations to enhance student achievement

The meeting was attended by several education stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, and the Director of Schools, Mrs. Ifeoma Onyeneke, amongst others.

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

ACTDA DEMOLISHES SHANTIES, MAKESHIFT SHOPS TO CLEAR MAJOR ROADS IN AWKA

By Ukpa Ewa :

The Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) has conducted a significant demolition exercise targeting illegal structures and makeshift shops obstructing free flow of traffic in key areas of Awka, Anambra State. The move is part of the agency’s urban regeneration efforts to restore the city’s master plan and expand critical road networks.

Addressing Journalists at the demolition sites in Awka, ACTDA’s Deputy Commander of Enforcement, Mr. Ukachukwu Okonkwo who led the exercise said that the first phase of the demolition took place at Nnamdi Azikiwe Avenue by Igwebuike axis, near the old Nipost structure.

“This is a major tarred road, but part of it were illegally occupied by individuals who built shops and workshops, including a carpentry workshop producing upholstery. We deemed it necessary to open up the road,” Okonkwo explained. He added that once cleared, the full size of the road was revealed, allowing for easier movement of vehicles.

Mr. Okonkwo said that the second phase of the exercise was carried out along Abakaliki Street, Club Road, where illegal shops were constructed under high-tension power lines. “These land grabbers initially set up makeshift shops but later started building permanent structures under the power lines, which is not only illegal but also poses serious safety risks.” He noted that several structures were demolished, while others have been marked for further demolition.

Aso, the final area targeted by the operation was in Okpuno, where unauthorized buildings had significantly narrowed a road that should have been about 30 feet wide. “The road had been reduced to less than 10 feet, making it impossible for vehicles to pass through, causing immense hardship to residents,” he said. Residents had filed petitions and sought legal redress, prompting ACTDA to take action and remove the structures.

Mr. Okonkwo clarified that the demolition exercise was part of Awka’s urban regeneration program, aimed at transforming the city into a modern hub comparable to Dubai, in line with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s vision as the initiative was driven by ACTDA Managing Director Mr. Ossy Onuko’s commitment to giving Awka a befitting look and correcting irregularities.

ACTDA has reaffirmed its dedication to enforcing the city’s master plan and promoting sustainable urban development, with ongoing demolitions expected in other areas where illegal structures are obstructing roadways and public spaces.

*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State