The apex body saddled with the administration of Nnewi, Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, has banned all activities likely to disrupt the revered Afiaolu Nnewi Festival 2026.
In a statement signed by the President General, Hon. Prince Jude Osumuo, the General House of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi said the decision was reached at its previous meeting by resolution.
The 2026 Afiaolu Nnewi Festival is scheduled to hold from Tuesday, 25th August 2026 to Friday, 28th August 2026.
According to the directive, all forms of religious gatherings, social events, and masquerade activities are strictly prohibited on the first and last day of the festival.
To ensure compliance, Nzuko-Ora Nnewi said a Task Force Committee has been duly constituted and empowered to enforce the directive. The body warned that defaulters will be dealt with in accordance with Nnewi customs and laws.
“We remain committed to preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage,” the statement added.
The President General urged Ndi Nnewi to cooperate with the Task Force for a peaceful and successful celebration.
Enoch Uzuegbunam is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State.
Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr Law Mefor, says Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s recent engagements in Canada and the United States are strategic moves to attract global investments, expertise and partnerships in technology and innovation.
Dr Mefor stated this on August 17, during an interview with journalists at his office in the Jerome Udorji Secretariat Complex, Awka, while explaining the purpose and expected benefits of the Governor’s trip.
He explained that Governor Soludo’s participation in the Economic and Development Summit in Canada was part of a Federal Government-sponsored engagement, which also created an opportunity to promote Anambra’s interests before investors and technology-driven organisations.
According to him, the Governor’s focus was to build strategic partnerships that would support his administration’s vision of positioning Anambra State as a major technology and innovation hub.
Dr Mefor noted that Governor Soludo proceeded from Canada to Silicon Valley in the United States, where he sought first-hand exposure to leading technology companies and explored opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
He said the Governor was accompanied by the Managing Director of the Solution Innovation District, SID, Ms Chinwe Okoli, whose participation would help sustain the engagements and strengthen connections between Anambra’s emerging innovation ecosystem and global technology players.
The Commissioner stressed that the engagements complement the infrastructure and institutional framework already being developed in Anambra, including the transformation of the old Government House into a technology and innovation hub, now housing the Solution Innovation District.
He observed that Anambra’s traditional strength in trade and commerce must increasingly be driven by technology and innovation to remain competitive in the modern economy, stressing that global partnerships would help accelerate the state’s digital transformation.
Dr Mefor maintained that the Governor’s Canada and United States engagements were not tourism but a deliberate investment and development drive aimed at securing expertise, partnerships and resources for Anambra’s technology agenda.
He expressed optimism that the relationships initiated during the trip would create further opportunities and strengthen Governor Soludo’s vision of building a globally competitive, innovation-driven economy in Anambra State.
Chiamaka is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State.
On Monday, August 17, 2026, the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) held its 9th meeting in Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s second term. Council reviewed key developments and took far-reaching decisions to accelerate the state’s transformation agenda.
Appraisal of Governor Soludo’s Trip to Canada and Silicon Valley, USA Council received and appraised the report of Governor Soludo’s working visit to Canada and Silicon Valley, USA. The visit was deemed strategic to positioning Anambra State as a leading innovation and technology hub in Nigeria and Africa.
In line with this, Council approved the commissioning of the Solution Innovation District (SID) Permanent Site in March, 2027, to mark the first anniversary of Mr. Governor’s second term. SID is designed to drive tech talent development, startups, and digital enterprise in the state.
Citizen Code of Conduct on the Environment Council reviewed the devastating impact of erosion across the state and resolved to strengthen immediate remedial actions. Accordingly, Council resolved as follows:
a. Environmental Law Enforcement All individual actions contributing to erosion and environmental degradation are to be stopped forthwith through strict enforcement of environmental laws.
b. Mandatory Catchment Pits The construction of catchment pits in all buildings – residential, commercial and religious – across the state is now mandatory as expressly provided for in the environmental law. Appropriate sanctions will apply for non-compliance.
With immediate effect, all houses channeling runoff water onto roads shall be sealed until catchment pits are constructed within their premises to ensure that storm and runoff water no longer enter public roads and drainages.
c. Community Action as Prerequisite for Government Intervention Each community is directed to constitute Environmental Teams to identify and report erosion sites to government and coordinate community remedial action.
Henceforth, government intervention will be contingent on full compliance with environmental health standards. Communities that neglect environmental restoration will not receive priority intervention. Communities that demonstrate commitment to environmental health will be prioritised by government.
The Soludo administration remains committed to Solution 2.0 agenda: building a smart megacity that is livable, prosperous, and sustainable.
Law Mefor, PhD, Commissioner for Information & Value Reformation, Anambra State
The District Governor, Rotary International District 9142, Rtn. Chibuzor Asogwa, has congratulated the Secretary to the Anambra State Government (SSG), Hon. Chiamaka Nnake, on her appointment as the first female SSG in the state.
Asogwa gave the commendation on Aug. 17 when he led a delegation of Rotary District 9142 on a courtesy visit to Nnake at the Light House, Awka.
He described the appointment as a significant milestone for women and an indication of the confidence reposed in Nnake’s capacity, experience and track record of service.
According to him, the state government would benefit from her dedication, commitment, organisational skills and experience in the strategic position.
The district governor also commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for recognising Nnake’s contributions as the former Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning and entrusting her with greater responsibility as SSG.
Asogwa expressed confidence in Nnake’s ability to succeed in her new assignment, noting that her experience and capacity would enable her to make significant contributions to the administration.
He assured her of Rotary International’s goodwill and support, stressing the organisation’s commitment to service to humanity and community development.
Responding, Nnake thanked the district governor and members of the delegation for the visit and congratulatory message.
She said she had several friends within the Rotary family and had attended numerous Rotary functions over the years at the invitation of members, describing herself as an associate of the Rotary Club.
The SSG acknowledged Rotary’s presence and contributions to Anambra, saying the state government appreciated the organisation’s humanitarian and community development interventions.
Nnake expressed optimism that the cordial relationship between the state government and Rotary International would continue, noting that partnerships with organisations committed to improving the lives of the people were essential to sustainable development.
Among members of the delegation was the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the SSG, Dr. Nwabufor Nwankwo, a former Rotary District Governor in Awka.
The visit provided an opportunity for both parties to reaffirm their commitment to service, community development and the wellbeing of Ndi Anambra.
Onyinyechi Edokwe is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
By Nkiru Anakor Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) will continue to strengthen its commitment to enviromental sustainability, and strategic partnerships. The Director of the COOU Centre for Climate Change, Environmental Impact Analysis and Labour Services, Prof. Luke Chika Eme said this when he led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the University Management on August 17. According to him, the visit was aimed at deepening institutional collaboration and brought together representatives of organisations with shared interests in climate action, healthcare, environmental sustainability, research, professional training, entrepreneurship and community development. Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Environmental Sustainability), Prof. Anselem Nweke. Prof. Eme thanked the University Management for receiving the delegation and introduced the participating organisations.
They included Health Code Product Co. Limited/Aim and Glow International Limited, led by its Country Manager, Alwin Chen; the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, led by Rev. Fr. Dr. Udoye; University on the Niger Teaching Hospital, Iyi-Enu, Ogidi, led by its Chief Medical Director, Dr. Henry Obidimma; and OMAA Industries Limited, Nnewi, led by its Executive Director, Dr. Paschal Mbah. Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Prof. Eme stressed the importance of universities building productive partnerships that extend academic knowledge and research beyond the classroom and laboratory into practical solutions to societal challenges. He noted that the collaboration would provide an opportunity to harness expertise and resources across sectors to address critical issues ranging from climate change and environmental impact to healthcare innovation, entrepreneurship and community development. Responding on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nweke welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the University’s openness to innovations and meaningful partnerships. He emphasized that sustainable institutional development could not be achieved in isolation, noting that collaboration remains essential to advancing the university’s vision and translating research and innovation into tangible societal impact.
Prof. Nweke further highlighted the vice-chancellor’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability, describing it as one of the key reasons she remains receptive to partnerships that promote a healthier and more sustainable environment. The engagement also witnessed a goodwill gesture from Health Code Product Co. Limited/Aim and Glow International Limited, which presented a gift to the University Vice-Chancellor.
Also present were the Special Adviser to the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Ikechukwu Nwanoro; Associate Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Ngozi Mmadubogwu; Director, COOU Centre for Development, Management and Support, Ven. Prof. J. K. J. Onuorah; and the University Public Relations Officer, Dr. Harrison Mmadubueze Nkiru Anakor is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State #Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation #Anambraisrising #Informationiskey #Solutionishere #Solutioncontinues
The Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Clem Aguiyi, has directed all abattoirs operating across the state to strictly comply with the environmental laws and regulations guiding their operations.
Dr. Aguiyi gave the directive while speaking with journalists in his office in Awka, stressing that the move is part of the Solution Government’s commitment to building a livable, healthy and environmentally sustainable Anambra State.
According to the Commissioner, Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s declaration of a state of emergency on the environment calls for proactive measures, continuous sensitisation and effective enforcement to ensure that residents take responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean and healthy.
Dr. Aguiyi expressed concern over some environmental nuisances observed in certain abattoirs across the state, warning operators to ensure that their facilities meet the required hygiene and environmental standards.
He listed some of the requirements to include the provision of adequate pipe-borne water, designated and hygienic areas for slaughtering animals, functional drainage systems, proper disposal of animal carcasses and other waste, as well as clean toilet facilities for workers and customers.
The Commissioner also directed abattoir operators to carry out regular fumigation and maintain proper sanitation within their facilities. He stressed that animal carcasses and other forms of waste must not be left to litter the environment.
Dr. Aguiyi maintained that the government would combine sensitisation with enforcement to achieve full compliance, noting that the approach is part of the ongoing efforts to eliminate environmental nuisances and protect public health across the state.
He therefore called on all abattoir operators to cooperate with the Ministry of Environment and ensure full compliance with the environmental standards and regulations of Anambra State.
The Commissioner emphasised that maintaining clean and hygienic abattoirs is not only a government responsibility but a collective duty that requires the cooperation of operators and residents alike.
Igwe Nwofia performs new yam festival, sues for peace, unity & development
Culture came alive at Ama Okpata Square as the people of Eziagulu-Otu Aguleri in Anambra East LGA gathered for the 2026 Alo Mmuo, the new yam festival.
Leading the celebration was their traditional ruler, Igwe Lawrence Nwofia Igwe Ochiagha joined by other royal fathers, Ndi Ichie, Oji Ana, Ruling Council, Ndi Ogo Nwanyi, Ikiti, Town Union leaders, and sons and daughters at home and abroad.
Igwe Nwofia said the festival was to “thank God for a bountiful harvest. Despite annual flooding, their farms yielded more yam, cassava, okro and other crops this year than before”.
Performing the kolanut rituals, the Igwe prayed for peace and unity in Eziagulu-Otu and with neighboring communities. He also prayed for light, glory, greatness and increased income for his subjects, and for progress and development in the community.
“Our reign is for peace and cordial relationships. That is what brings development,” Igwe Nwofia declared.
It was a day of honour and encouragement. Deserving sons of the community received chieftaincy titles to spur them to contribute more to development. Students were also presented with textbooks to motivate them to embrace reading culture and education.
Leaders used the occasion to call on youths to embrace farming. Cultivate what you eat was the message, as they stressed that agriculture was the key to wiping out hunger and poverty.
A daughter of the land, Mrs. Ify-Fyn Onwudiwe, noted that forgotten aspects of their culture were being reformed so the younger generation could know their roots and be proud of them.
Speaking on behalf of visiting traditional rulers, Igwe Ben Emeka of Umueri commended Igwe Nwofia for ushering in peace, unity and progress. He however appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to complete the remaining stretch of road into Eziagulu-Otu so that residents can have “free passage while coming home.”
The community also threw their weight behind the Soludo administration and commended him for his “giant strides” across Anambra.
“What we celebrated today is farming. Include agriculture in whatever business you are doing,” the President General, Engr. Dom Afiaocha, and former ASATU President, Chief Alex Onukwue said
One of the newly conferred chiefs, Obinna Okechi, promised to uphold integrity, truth and honesty as he works for community growth.
Doris Onyekachi is of Anambra State Ministry of Information and value Reformation, Anambra State
By Henry Anagboso The Federal Government and International Fund for Agricultural Development (FGN/IFAD) Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) has called for stronger support from the Anambra State Government and local government authorities to ensure the long-term sustainability of market infrastructure, feeder roads and other facilities provided under the programme. The call was made during a one-day Policy Dialogue on Institutionalising Operations and Maintenance (O/M) Frameworks for VCDP Infrastructure, held on August 15 at the ADP Complex, Awka. The programme stressed the need for formal adoption of the recommended O/M frameworks to protect infrastructure from damage, encroachment and neglect while ensuring continued benefits to farming communities.
Representing the National Programme Coordinator of FGN/IFAD-VCDP, Dr. Fatima Aliyu, the Knowledge Management and Communications Adviser, Mrs. Vera Onyeaka-Onyilo, urged the state government to translate the recommendations of the dialogue into enforceable regulatory guidelines. She also called on local government Mayors to support the enactment of bylaws that would provide legal backing for Facility Management Committees and strengthen infrastructure protection at the grassroots. According to the programme, the proposed O/M framework focuses on key areas including dedicated budgeting, preventive maintenance schedules, restructuring and training of management teams, public-private co-funding mechanisms and community-based early-warning systems. It emphasised that effective maintenance is as important as the initial construction of the infrastructure.
The Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Ben Chuks Odoemena, described VCDP as an important platform for promoting agribusiness in the state, recalling his involvement in the programme’s design during his tenure as IFAD Country Director in Nigeria. He disclosed that the Anambra State Agricultural Strategy Plan would be released in the coming weeks following consultations with relevant stakeholders. Dr. Odoemena said the state was pursuing an agro-industrialisation strategy aimed at strengthening food security by ensuring that food is available, affordable and accessible, while promoting production systems that contribute to improved nutrition. The State Programme Coordinator for FGN/IFAD-VCDP, Dr. Deborah Onyefulu, said the policy dialogue was designed to strengthen ownership, accountability and commitment to sustaining VCDP-supported investments and interventions across local governments and communities. She urged stakeholders to move from discussions to implementation, stressing the need for collective responsibility in protecting the programme’s investments. Participants commended VCDP for its interventions and emphasis on transparency, accountability, inclusion and human-capacity development. The dialogue concluded with technical presentations on VCDP interventions, including Gender Action Learning System (GALS) and O/M, followed by interactive sessions where participants exchanged ideas and made recommendations on strengthening the sustainability of infrastructure investments. Henry Anagboso is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State #Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation #Anambraisrising #Informationiskey #Solutionishere #Solutioncontinues
By Ngozi Okoli The people of Ohita in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State are set to celebrate their New Yam Festival on August 22, in a colourful display of culture, tradition and community unity. The announcement was made on August 16 by Chinelo Nwaisagba of Ogbahu TV, who invited sons and daughters of Ohita, traditional rulers, community leaders, friends and well-wishers to the celebration. The event, scheduled to commence in the afternoon will be held at the palace of HRH Igwe Dr. Nelson Ifeanyichukwu Esimai. A major highlight of the celebration will be the conferment of High Chieftaincy Titles on two distinguished sons of the community, Chief and Lolo Obi Chukwuemeka Benson (JP), Thunder of Israel, and Chief and Lolo Obi Anene Victor, Ikwukwu Ama Na Onya of Malaysia. The honourees are being recognised for their exemplary leadership, commitment to community development and contributions to the welfare of their people and humanity. The festival will also feature the Iwa Ji ceremony of HRH Igwe Dr. Nelson Ifeanyichukwu Esimai, adding further cultural and traditional significance to the occasion. Beyond celebrating the harvest season, the event is expected to provide an opportunity for the people of Ohita to express gratitude, preserve their cultural heritage and strengthen unity and communal bonds. The organisers therefore called on families, community stakeholders, friends, well-wishers and all sons and daughters of Ohita to participate in the celebration and witness the conferment of the chieftaincy titles as the community honours its distinguished sons.
Ngozi Okoli is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State #Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation #Anambraisrising #Informationiskey #Solutionishere #Solutioncontinues
Residents of Okpoko Community in Ogbaru 1 Constituency, Anambra State, have applauded Comrade Chukwuebuka Igwebuike, for receiving a Peace and Security Promoter Award.
Comrade Igwebuike received the award from Grace and Mercy Church International, Okpoko, on August 16, in recognition of his dedication, commitment, sincerity and transparent leadership among community youths.
The honour, according to the church management, was presented to recognise his contributions toward promoting peace, security, unity and responsible leadership, while encouraging him to sustain his positive impact within Okpoko community.
The church further stated that the recognition was aimed at strengthening and encouraging his leadership capacity, inspiring greater commitment toward building a prosperous, progressive and peaceful community for residents and youths.
The residents described the award as a well-deserved recognition of Comrade Igwebuike’s leadership efforts, noting that his commitment to youth development and community security continues to attract commendation and appreciation.
They further expressed confidence that the recognition would encourage him to remain dedicated to promoting peace, unity and meaningful development, while serving as an inspiration to other young leaders within Okpoko.
Residents on the other hand, congratulated and prayed for his continued success and greater accomplishments, while affirming that when righteous leaders emerge, communities rejoice.
Ngozi Okoli is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
