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GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S STANCE ON ANAMBRA NEW LOCAL GOVERNMENT LAWS

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

Anambra State Government has enacted two new laws aimed at reforming local governance: the Anambra State Economic Planning and Development Law, 2024, and the Anambra State Local Government Administration Law, 2024.

These laws, signed by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, are intended to increase transparency, enhance collaboration between state and local governments, and ensure the efficient management of local government resources.

The new legislation has stirred debate, particularly regarding their alignment with a recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy.

However, Gov. Soludo clarified that these laws are consistent with the Nigerian Constitution and that they seek to improve governance at the local level, stressing that the reforms are not about undermining local government autonomy but about ensuring proper management of public funds and services.

He pointed out that Nigeria’s Constitution do not treat local governments as completely autonomous units. He explained that, under Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution, state governments have the power to establish and structure local governments. Therefore, Anambra’s new laws aimed to provide a structured approach to managing local government funds and services, ensuring they align with both the Constitution and the Supreme Court ruling.

Soludo emphasized that the debate over local government autonomy is still unsettled in Nigeria’s federal system, noting that the APC’s 2018 restructuring committee had proposed removing local governments from the Constitution, allowing states to decide how to manage them.

The recent Supreme Court ruling, which mandated the direct transfer of funds to local governments, has been viewed as a step toward more financial independence for local councils.

However, Gov. Soludo sees the recent ruling by the Supreme Court as an opportunity to introduce greater transparency in how these funds are managed. He argued that while local governments should have control over their finances, there must be oversight and collaboration with the state to ensure effective service delivery.

Soludo pointed out that the ruling provides a chance to restructure the Joint State-Local Government Accounts system to ensure better coordination. He emphasized that if local governments were left to manage their finances independently without proper oversight, it could lead to financial mismanagement and failure to provide critical services like primary education and healthcare.

According to him, One of the central elements of the new laws is the creation of the Anambra State Economic Planning Board, which will include all local government chairpersons. This board will be responsible for deciding how local government revenues are allocated for essential services such as salaries, education, healthcare, and pensions.

Gov. Soludo explained that this collaborative approach ensures consistency across local governments. Without it, some local governments might struggle to meet basic obligations like paying teachers or providing healthcare. By pooling resources, the state can ensure that all local governments have the necessary funds to fulfill their responsibilities.

Mr Governor also addressed concerns raised by local government workers and unions about potential issues with local government autonomy. The new laws aim to protect workers, including teachers and healthcare workers, by ensuring their salaries and pensions are consistently paid.

He highlighted that when he took office, he inherited four years of unpaid gratuities to local government workers.

His administration has since restructured the system and brought it back to financial stability. Anambra is now ranked first among Nigerian states for fiscal transparency, a testament to the government’s focus on accountability.

Gov. Soludo emphasized that these reforms are designed to build lasting institutions that will continue to function effectively after his administration. The laws are intended to safeguard the improvements made in education, healthcare, and local government workers welfare.

With these reforms, Anambra is leading the way in finding practical solutions to the challenges of local governance in Nigeria. Soludo called for similar reforms across other states, stressing that no tier of government can function effectively in isolation. Collaboration between state and local governments is essential for achieving sustainable development and improving the lives of citizens.

He posited that the new laws represent a progressive step in Nigeria’s evolving federalism, balancing local government autonomy with the need for collaboration and accountability, while stating that his administration aimed to ensure that local governments in Anambra are well-managed, transparent, and able to meet their obligations to the people.

*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

EMPOWERING ANAMBRA: UNLOCKING CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMEs

By Chiamaka Edokwe :

The Anambra State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Committee, in collaboration with the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA) and the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA), recently hosted a significant event aimed at enhancing credit opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Anambra State. Held on October 15, 2024, at the International Conference Centre, the event drew over 150 SME representatives, underscoring the state’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo, represented by Hon. Udechukwu Christian, the Commissioner for Industry, announced that Anambra has been nationally recognized as the best SME-friendly state in the Southeast and ranks first for Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in southern Nigeria.

Christian emphasized the government’s financial commitment, noting that funds have already been disbursed to over 4,500 entrepreneurs through ASBA and the Ministry of Industry. “This event aims to raise public awareness about available funding and inform the business community about our infrastructural initiatives to support SME growth,” he stated.

He elaborated on plans for an industrial city that will serve as a hub for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as well as larger industries, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence. “Our goal is to maintain Anambra’s legacy as a leading trade and industrial center in Africa and beyond.”

Mark Okoye, Managing Director of ANSIPPA and Chairman of the SABER Committee, discussed the collaborative efforts among various government bodies to improve the ease of doing business in the state. He noted the establishment of the State Action Plan on Enabling Business Environment Committee, which brings together diverse agencies to enhance information flow between the public and private sectors. This session aimed to equip SMEs with a deeper understanding of available opportunities and the mindset shifts needed to access funding.

Clement Chukwuka, MD/CEO of ASBA, recalled that in 2019, Anambra was recognized as the best MSME state in Nigeria, underscoring the agency’s commitment to supporting small businesses and showcasing Anambra’s proactive approach to fostering a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The panel discussion included representatives from SMEDAN, the Bank of Industry, Africa’s Global Bank (UBA), and the Nigeria Stock Exchange Group (NGX), who explored strategies to increase access to finance, enhance financial literacy, foster public-private partnerships, improve the regulatory framework, create risk mitigation strategies, and promote inclusive financing. Okoye reiterated that while the government serves as an enabler, it cannot finance every enterprise but rather facilitates connections and raises awareness to help businesses thrive.

Additionally, a virtual session was conducted on October 17, 2024, to further engage SMEs that were unable to attend the in-person event, ensuring broader access to information and resources. This event not only showcased the state’s achievements but also set the stage for continued growth and support for SMEs in the region by addressing challenges and expanding credit opportunities.

IWUANYANWU: WHEN A GREAT LEADER DEPARTS IN A BLAZE OF GLORY

By Law Mefor :

A great leader always leaves a big hole in the lives of those around them when they pass away. Considering the roles they played while still on the scene, this is obvious. Because they look up to the leader for crucial decisions affecting their collective, and because they fill in for them or hoist the flag of defence when the need arises, their lives and the lives of their people are intertwined.

Just like when Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was around as a model and premier Igbo-Nigerian leader, patriot, and Igboist, Ndi Igbo relied on him as their leader, spokesman, and defender. Being an Igboist and a Nigerian defender at the same time is a tough combination to maintain. He had affection for both of them, but Ndigbo was his priority for obvious reasons.

Given his role as an exemplary Igbo leader and nationalist par excellence, Chief Iwuanyanwu’s departure has undoubtedly left a void that will take time to fill. The celebration of life and times as Ndigbo, Nigerians, and beyond bid the great man goodbye has begun with the service of songs already held. As he journeys home to his maker, we can only bid him a heartfelt farewell.

I cannot forget in a hurry my encounters with Chief Iwuanyanwu. One stands out for me. The Igbo Leadership Development Foundation (ILDF), an organisation I served as spokesperson, started the campaign for the election of an Igbo (South East) as president for Nigeria.

Chief Iwuanyanwu gave his significant support and blessing to the campaign of the ILDF for the Igbo Nigerian president project. The group paid him visits to convey the guiding ideas and philosophy behind the main program we had in the works as well as the self-imposed effort to rescue Ndigbo from Nigeria’s political obscurity.

Under this, the Igbo Leadership Development Foundation (ILDF) organised a national dialogue in Abuja with Gregory University Uturu in 2021. Chief Iwuanyanwu gave us his whole support and participated in the event proper. Leaders from all over Nigeria as well as representatives of the country’s major cultural blocks attended the national discourse, which took place at the Sheraton Hotel Abuja. Chief Nnia Nwodo, the then president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, was present, as was Iwuanyanwu.

I provided this history to demonstrate that I had a close acquaintance with the great leader and therefore had the chance to form an opinion about his life and times. The fact that Chief Iwuanyanwu was an activist is one of his qualities that is most frequently downplayed. It matters so much to me, probably for the reason that I belong to the human rights community. It’s not easy being an activist in a ruthless country like Nigeria. Furthermore, Chief Iwuanyanwu—a University of Nigeria-trained civil engineer and a private practitioner—would have undoubtedly had his business ventures, some of which depended on government patronage, suffer as a result of his firm stance against the marginalisation of his Igbo people in Nigeria.

He was a true and unique leader, as they rarely come! He put the needs of his people before his own, even if doing so meant sacrificing his happiness, safety, and growth of his wide business concerns. Even as an activist myself, I was afraid for his life every time he fiercely talked about the condition of the Ndigbo in Nigeria. He took no prisoners.

Iwuanyanwu, like his compatriots and great Igbo leaders, Comrade Uche Chukwumerije and Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, did not give much thought to his safety or business when he championed the rights of Ndigbo, a practice that began with his participation in the Biafra war as an army captain.

The life of the Ikeduru Imo State-born Iwuanyanwu resembled an octopus. It spread and had an impact on nearly everything important, including politics, sociocultural issues, business, construction, sports, the media, and even banking. You dare call him a jack of all trades and master of all! For the younger ones’ sake, it is important to emphasise a few of his impacts. The areas where Iwuanyanwu made profound contributions include the following: sports (Iwuanyanwu Nationale), aviation (Oriental Airlines), media (Champion Newspapers), road construction (Hardel & Enic), health (Iwuanyanwu Ambulance), banking (ABC Merchant Bank), education (Iwuanyanwu Foundation), philanthropy, food security (Magil Bread, etc.). Housing (owned several estates across the country).

In politics and the nation’s quest for democracy, democratic rule, and purposeful national leadership, Iwuanyanwu was a leading member of the NNC, NRC, UNCP, APP, ANPP, PDP, etc. He was a statesman par excellence. He left his footprints on every one of these great endeavours. His legacy will live on for future generations, providing a clear pathway for those who genuinely want to succeed and make their life meaningful through perseverance, hard work, and self-belief, so they too can leave their mark on the sands of time.

Serving as the 11th president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, preceded by George Obiozor, was Chief Iwuanyanwu’s final act of service to the Ndigbo people, Nigeria, and mankind, where he inspired and repositioned the Igbo people in Nigeria and global context.

By the grace of God, he crossed both biblical rubicon for humans—three scores and ten and eighty for those who are still strong. He passed away a happy man at 82.

At eighty-two, Iwuanyanwu walked off this route to meet his maker—the final destination for all mortals. As renowned poet John Donne once said…

“Each man’s death diminishes me,

For I am involved in mankind.

Therefore, send not to know.

For whom the bell tolls,

It tolls for thee.”

Chief Dr. Eng. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu has finished his earthly race and left his mark on history. How about you? The bell tolls for you too!

Good night, great Igboist, nationalist, and leader. In both the Igbo nation and Nigeria, you were undoubtedly the zenith and emblem of Igbo possibilities and Nigerian nationalism. You have left a void that will be difficult to fill, but there’s God, and in Him we trust.

Law Mefor is Information Commissioner, Anambra State; drlawmefor@gmail.com; Twitter: @Drlawsonmefor.

SOLUDO’S STERLING ACHIEVEMENTS: MEFOR, NWABUNWANNE COLLABORATE ON 21 LG TOWN HALL TOURS TO DRIVE MESSAGE

By Rose Oranye :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, on Monday, October 14, visited the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Tony Collins Nwabunwanne, in his office at Government House, Awka, to firm up the two ministries plan to embark on town hall tours of 21 LGs in the state to drive the message of Governor Soludo’s sterling achievements.

Speaking during the visit, Mefor recalled that he had earlier hinted to Nwabunwanne about the Information Ministry’s proposed Local Government Town Hall Tours to strategically communicate Governor Soludo’s several sterling achievements and was visiting with his team to work out modalities with the Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs counterpart.

According to him, he decided to visit the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs because of the urgency of the town hall tour and the need for the two ministries to collaborate to achieve the desired purpose.

“The town hall is intended to bring together traditional rulers, presidents-general, women and youth leaders, and other critical stakeholders in each local government in one hall and reiterate what the governor has done specifically in their areas and equally get feedback and appreciation of what has been done well and what more should be done to better their lives.

“The Ministry of Information has set up a committee for the town hall. We expect you to do the same so we can have a joint committee to think out where and how we would start,” he said.

Responding, Hon. Nwabunwanne commended the commissioner for doing so much within a short time, even as he reiterated his commitment to the idea and assured of his ministry’s interest.

“It’s a welcome idea. I’m ready anytime. Mine is how to deliver the Soludo solution to the people. What we need is to put things together. I’ll get a team to join yours as a joint committee. Let them draw up a programme and a timetable on possible dates and we take it from there,” he said.

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

DR. LAW MEFOR: A NEW ERA FOR INFORMATION IN ANAMBRA STATE

By Sylvia Tochukwu-Ngige :

Dr. Law Mefor, recently appointed as the Commissioner for Information in Anambra State, brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to public service. A seasoned academic, technocrat, and media expert, Dr. Mefor steps into this critical role with a mission to reshape the State’s communication landscape. His appointment marks a new chapter for Anambra, one where transparency, modernity, and effective public engagement are at the forefront.

Dr. Mefor’s journey is defined by his impressive academic background. He holds a PhD in Social Psychology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, as well as degrees in General and Applied Psychology from the University of Jos and Forensic Psychology from Nassarawa State University. In addition, he earned a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Calabar and a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja, where he also taught for over a decade.

His diverse expertise spans media consultancy, publishing, and thought leadership as a syndicated columnist. As a media consultant, Dr. Mefor has helped shape narratives and guide public opinion on a range of issues. Now, as Commissioner for Information, he is expected to leverage this experience to enhance communication between the Anambra State government and its citizens, making information more accessible, timely, and accurate.

*PRIORITIES FOR A MODERNIZED COMMUNICATION SYSTEM*

Dr. Mefor’s vision is one that centers on several key priorities:

*-Strengthening Government Communication:*

One of Dr. Mefor’s primary goals is to foster transparency and build trust between the government and the public. He is committed to ensuring that information about policies, programs, and achievements is communicated clearly and effectively.

*-Bridging the Information Gap:*

In a State where rural and underserved communities often struggle to access important information, Dr. Mefor aims to close this gap. His experience as a media professional equips him to develop strategies that will ensure every citizen, regardless of location, receives timely and accurate updates from the government.

*-Promoting Digital Transformation:* Understanding the growing importance of digital platforms, Dr. Mefor plans to modernize the State’s communication channels. Through the use of social media, websites, and mobile apps, he hopes to make government information more accessible to the public while fostering real-time engagement.

*-Public Education and Advocacy:*

With his academic background in psychology, Dr. Mefor is passionate about using communication as a tool for public education. He intends to launch campaigns on critical issues like health, security, and civic responsibility, empowering citizens with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.

*-Combating Misinformation:*

In today’s fast-paced media environment, misinformation is a significant challenge. Dr. Mefor’s forensic psychology background makes him particularly sensitive to this issue. He will implement proactive measures to combat fake news and disinformation, ensuring that the truth is always accessible to the public.

Dr. Mefor’s appointment no doubt is a turning point for Anambra State. As he settles into his role, the State looks forward to a more open, informed, and engaged community, where government actions are transparent, and every citizen feels connected to the State’s development.

GOVERNMENT CRACKS DOWN ON DRAINAGE BLOCKING STRUCTURES IN NKPOR

By Okechukwu Okolonji :

Anambra State Government has rolled out its environment monitoring taskforce against structures blocking drainages in Akuzo, Nkpor, Idemili Local Government Area.

The monitoring was conducted by the Anambra State Physical Planning Board (ANSPPB).

Speaking during the exercise, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Mr. Stephen Ezenwa said that the structures were built on an existing drainage channel thereby blocking free flow of flood.

Ezenwa pointed out that the blockage caused flood to prevent the occupants of the area from accessing their buildings also it destroyed property worth millions of naira.

He added that ANSPPB Idemili North LGA has visited the area severally, warned and served the developer removal notices but all led to no avail hence the demolition.

He warned that Anambra State Government would arrest and punish any defaulter who built on drainages and without a building approval.

“Developers should always visit the Board and get approvals before erecting any structure.”

He stressed that it is unlawful to build without an approval in the state.

MEASLES CAMPAIGN: ANAMBRA HOLDS TWG MEETING

By Nnedinma Okeke :

The Executive Secretary, Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), Pharm Chisom Uchem has chaired the weekly Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting for the 2024 Measles vaccination campaign in the State.

The meeting was aimed at accessing Anambra State’s preparedness for the integrated Measles vaccination campaign.

It had in attendance ASPHCDA team and Partners to include: Director Disease Control and Immunization, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi and WHO Anambra State Coordinator, Dr Bonos Mohammed.

The activities discussed at the meeting include: update on action points from last meeting, report on pending pre implementation activities, plan for lower level training, Anambra State implementation date, and review of action points.

*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

MARKET SENSITIZATION: BUSINESSES OPEN ON MONDAYS

By Chika Igweagbaka :

Mr. ThankGod Anagor, Mayor, Awka North LGA with the sensitisation team led a peaceful march to Oye market, Achalla to sensitize them on the need to go about their businesses every Monday, reassuring them of their safety.

Speaking at Oye Achalla, Anagor assured the people of their safety on Mondays as it is in line with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to return normalcy in the markets for economic growth and development.

He further enlightened them on the loses they incur every Monday when businesses are shut down which invariably affect the economic growth of the state.

Ndi Awka North expressed their gratitude to the ever working Governor, affirming that Solution is indeed here.

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

INDUSTRIALIZATION; ACHALLA, NTEJE TO RECEIVE SOLID MINERALS AND OIL BOOSTS

By Adaobi Nsofor :

Achalla, in Awka North Local Government and Nteje in Oyi Local Government Areas of Anambra State are set to witness the presence of the state government industries in their various communities, following the discovery of capt Oil wells and Solid Mineral deposits in the communities.

Speaking during the sensitization visit to these communities as part of the enumeration exercise for oil wells and solid minerals deposits in the state, the MD, Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company and Anambra State Petroleum and Energy Resources Limited, Prof.Charles O.Ofoegbu hinted that the state has embarked on an inventory of all the solid minerals and oil wells in the state for the purpose of industrialization, growth and development of the state.

In Achalla, Prof.Ofoegbu noted that Anambra State has a lot of capt oil wells yet untapped and the government is now ready to secure and acquire them, and to be fully part of the oil producing states in the federation.

He noted that his team has already discovered some abandoned oil wells located at Igbariam, Aguleri among other locations and the essence of developing these oil wells is to generate energy for electricity, and have industrial clusters within the state which will in turn, bring huge development and employment opportunities.

While listing the hazardous effects of unregulated mining activities in the community as well as tampering of oil wells, Prof. Ofoegbu urged the community members to keep off from the areas being mapped out.

He further warned that any attempt to uncapt these wells could be disastrous as there may be blow out. He also requested for adequate security for the team at the start of work in their various units.

Responding, the Traditional Ruler of Achalla community, Igwe Ositadinma Nwokedi said that in as much as it is a welcome development in the sense that it will give the community a face-lift, the team should exercise patience to enable them put in place all the necessary security needed following the recent kidnappings and insecurities that erupted in the community.

Igwe Nwokedi also promised he will put in place a community vigilante team that will work with panel of experts to ensure adequate security and smooth operation of the projects.

He mentioned that erosion is seriously ravaging the community roads, and believed that if the roads are fixed, it will facilitate the security of the whole community.

At Nteje, Prof. Ofoegbu announced the need for a processing plant following the discovery of a huge deposits of Bentonite that is currently being illegally mined in their community.

“What the government wants to do is to partner with the communities that have these solid mineral deposits so it can be used for industrialization. The governor wants to build an industry where these minerals will be processed and mined scientifically and technically so it will benefit the state

“We have the raw materials at Nteje for both oil and water based Bentonite, the water based is for drilling water while the oil based is for drilling oils by the oil companies and that is why we want to set up a Processing Plant here so it will be properly utilized,” Prof Ofoegbu added.

He further reminded them that mining was suspended in the state and now undergoing total reformation. He therefore called on the miners to form a Mining Coperatives that will comprise of ten persons each, whereby they will be issued mining certificate under one cadastral unit which must be signed and approved by the governor.

The President General of Nteje community, Dr Nnamdi Iloduba, who stood in for the Traditional ruler while expressing happiness over the recent development, stated that the community is ever ready to partner and cooperate with the state government. He also assured the team of optimum security at the kick off of the field project.

Meanwhile, the two communities promised to make available the 20 plots of land or more needed for the building of the various projects as Igwe Nwokedi on his part, is ready to provide additional seven hectares of land if so demanded.

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

ANAMBRA SPEAKER VISITS FLOOD AFFECTED COMMUNITIES IN OGBARU

By Chizoba Okeke :

The Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze, has paid a visit to flood-affected areas in Ogbaru to assess the situation and connect with displaced residents.

Udeze, who is the member representing Ogbaru II constituency assured the residents of government support and commitment. He was accompanied by Hon. Esmai Nnamdi, Chairman of LEMCE Ogbaru, and other officials.

During his visit to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, the speaker encouraged those affected to remain in the camps for their safety and promised that essential items like food, medical supplies, and mattresses would be provided to ease their burden while the flood persists.

He also visited some key infrastructural projects in the area, including the Atani-Ossomala Road and the Onuko Bridge to ascertain the level of work.

Addressing the suffering faced by residents along the Idemmili and Iyiowa roads, he appealed for patience, explaining that the government is closely monitoring contractors to ensure steady progress on the Atani-Uga road.

Udeze emphasized that the State government remains committed to addressing their challenges and that everything possible will be done to restore normalcy soon.

The speaker took time to meet with security personnel in Ogbaru to boost their morale, recognizing the crucial role they have played so far in maintaining peace and stability in Ogbaru.