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DEMOCRACY DAY BECKONS AS SOLUDO SPEAKS AT THE PLATFORM

By Christian ABURIME

Every year since June 12 was adopted as Nigeria’s national Democracy Day in commemoration of June 12, 1993 elections hailed as the freest and fairest in our history, leaders, patriots and statesmen have never ceased interrogating the democratic experience.

How have we fared as a nation? What challenges still confront us? How can we move forward? These are among critical questions that shape national conversations at The Platform, an annual policy forum dedicated to Democracy Day where thought leaders gather to dissect, diagnose and offer solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.

This year again, as it has been in past Democracy Day events at The Platform in Lagos, all ears will be tuned in to Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, the erudite Governor of Anambra State, whose technocratic prowess and deep commitment to national development have made him a leading voice in contemporary discourse on governance.

The globally acclaimed and respected professor of Economics and transformational leader is set to address the pivotal topic of “Rebuilding Our Nation.”

Governor Soludo is well known as a proven development economist whose career has been defined by a focus on systemic reform and economic revitalisation. His background as an intellectual and technocrat equips him with a unique perspective, one that combines academic rigour with pragmatic governance.

Through initiatives and projects aimed at transforming Anambra State into a model of progress, Governor Soludo has demonstrated time and again that he possesses both the vision and the technical acumen necessary for significant change. And he epitomises the qualities of a leader worth listening to as Nigeria navigates its current challenges.

The theme “Rebuilding Our Nation” has never been more relevant for Nigerians on this year’s Democracy Day. As the nation reflects on its democratic journey, it also contends with the myriad challenges that threaten its stability, unity, and prosperity.

From economic straits to issues of security, and social inequities, Nigerians nurse hopes for better days.

Governor Soludo’s intervention at The Platform promises to explore these pressing issues, emphasizing the need to transcend divisive politics and work collectively toward a resilient future.

The key to rebuilding the nation lies in policy reforms as well as in fostering a renewed sense of national identity, one that prioritises equity, inclusivity, and collective aspiration. This, Governor Soludo believes, can illuminate the path to national progress.

Indeed, his insights will remind Nigerians that rebuilding is a shared responsibility. It requires active participation from all sectors: government, civil society, and individuals alike. In the spirit of democracy, Governor Soludo will be encouraging citizens to embrace their roles as stakeholders in national development, while also making it clear that rebuilding Nigeria is an achievable goal that demands concerted effort and strategic planning.

As Democracy Day unfolds, let us remember the sacrifices made for Nigeria’s democratic ideals and embrace the vision of a united and prosperous nation.

In essence, “Rebuilding Our Nation” is not just a topic for Governor Soludo alone; it is a dialogue for all. The future of our nation rests on the willingness to listen, learn, and act.

Happy Democracy Day.

DEMOCRACY DAY AT THE PLATFORM: NIGERIA ON SOLUDO’S MIND

By Christian ABURIME

As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day amidst the familiar chorus of challenges, Nigerians crave more than just platitudes. They yearn for credible voices offering not only diagnosis, but a tangible, inspiring blueprint for renewal.

One voice consistently rising above the din, attracting attention across geopolitical divides, is that of Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.

Beyond the purview of his state, Governor Soludo has always been a compelling national voice: a revered visionary, a profound thought leader, a genuine patriot, and an unrelenting optimist who believes Nigeria can be greater.

It is a fact that Governor Soludo’s reputation is not built on hollow rhetoric, but on a foundation of intellectual rigour and demonstrable action. Being a world-renowned economist and former Central Bank Governor, he possesses a deep understanding of the complex machinery of national and global economies. His foray into the gritty arena of state governance in Anambra affirms a leader unafraid to tackle difficult, long-term challenges with a clarity of purpose.

Look at Anambra State today. Governor Soludo is executing a meticulously crafted vision to transform the state into a livable, prosperous, smart megacity.

His leadership philosophy reflects the ethos of progressivism, much like development-focused ideals championed by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Like Awo, Governor Soludo places education, infrastructure, and economic sustainability at the core of his governance. Like the Great Zik of Africa, Soludo’s pan -Nigeria federalist ethos is a force that travels beyond the borders of Anambra to reach hearts across the nation.

Most crucially, he stakes an uncompromising belief in strategic planning, being a thought leader who roots his profound ideas in actionable plans, refusing the short-termism in favour of the sustainable.

In a society where cynicism about Nigeria’s viability is pervasive, Governor Soludo remains a genuine, unapologetic patriot. He doesn’t shy away from discussing federal policies, but is always proffering solutions and demonstrating courageous honesty.

What’s more, he actively champions national unity, consistently rejecting divisive rhetorics while demanding fairness and equity for the South-East within the Nigerian project. This blend of frankness and undaunted faith makes his patriotism compelling and credible.

It is not a suprise that Governor Soludo’s potent combination of intellectual depth, practical governance success rooted in progressive ideals, and authentic patriotism explains why he has become a much-sought-after speaker on critical national issues.

His interventions, whether on monetary policy, economic reforms, security, or national cohesion, are dissected nationwide because they carry weight. They are informed by experience, backed by data, and delivered with a palpable passion for the nation.

This is why Nigerians from all walks of life should keenly anticipate Governor Soludo’s Democracy Day presentation this Thursday, June 12th at The Platform in Lagos as he speaks on “Rebuilding The Nation.”

To be sure, we are not expecting just another political speech. We are anticipating a critical contribution from a dynamic thought leader who has a grasp of ideas Nigeria needs to navigate its complex challenges.

As we reflect on our democratic journey this June 12th, let us listen intently to leaders like Professor Soludo who cannot only diagnose our challenges, but also possesses the intellectual acuity to offer pragmatic solutions. His “Rebuilding the Nation” speech at The Platform promises to be a thought-provoking moment where credible hope will be articulated. Nigeria would do well to pay attention.

KEKE NAPEP RIDERS ELECT NEW EXCO, ENDORSE SOLUDO FOR SECOND TERM…INSTALL IDEMILI NORTH MAYOR AS PATRON

By Uzo Ugwunze

Tricycle operators in Anambra State, under the aegis of Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN), disclosed weekend that all is set to endorse Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s second tenure come 8 November, 2025 following his immense achievements in the state within three years in office.

Making the disclosure during the election of all branch executives of TOAN in the state, held at Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Secretariat hall, the TOAN State Chairman, Comrade Onyekwena Michael, said that the endorsement became necessary in view of the governor’s resolve to rehabilitate all roads in the state, adding that their tricycles no longer get damaged as the governor has rehabilitated the roads they ply on.

According to Michael the date of the endorsement will be made public in no distant time and urged the governor to lift the suspension placed on them, stating that the association has assisted in no small measure towards the increase of the state Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

“As a trade union we are non violent and law abiding. The governor has achieved a lot, worked on the roads we ply on and restored decorum in the transport sector and that is why we will endorse him for second tenure,” he stated.

Recall that all the new branch executives were formerly elected to pilot the affairs of the branches for four years but were however dissolved following alleged flawed election and now re elected unopposed by their members.

Reacting to the election, the state secretary, Linus Ufor, described the election as free, fair and credible and urged the elected branch executives to abide by their oath of office.

In their various remarks, the Abatete Chairman, Ezenwamadu Innocent, Owerri Road branch Chairman, Nnamdi Obumse, Idemili North Chairman, Arinze Idemili and Idemili South Chairman, Ikenna Okeke, expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the election and commended the state executive for her efforts in ensuring the peaceful conduct.

Earlier in his speech, the TOAN Legal Adviser, Sylvester Obiorah, who was the former state chairman before he was called to bar, urged the members to be of good behaviour and avoid acts capable of dragging the image of the association to ridicule even as he called for endorsement of Soludo by TOAN following the governor’s numerous achievements in the state especially on roads that the tricycle operators now ply

Highlights of the occasion were the presentation of certificates to the elected chairmen and installation of the mayor of the council area, Chief Sylvester Nkwoka, as the patron of the state TOAN following his focus to better the welfare of the people in the area and tricycle operators in the state.

In his response the mayor told them that the people in the state were lucky to have Soludo as governor, adding that what successive administrations were not able to achieve in eight years have been achieved by Soludo in three years.

“Soludo doesn’t need to worry because Anambra people will vote for him, this election is for APGA, Anambra is APGA and APGA is Anambra. Articulate what you want me to do for you. We want to win every ward and polling unit. When the suspension order placed on you is lifted maybe in six months’ time I hope you will be peaceful,” he queried.

The duo of chairman and secretary, Comrades Onyekwena Michael and Linus Ufor respectively, admitted that Soludo suspended some trade unions to improve on the state IGR, adding that TOAN is the only union that works with the three tiers of government.

  • Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NEMA STEPS UP FLOOD AWARENESS IN HIGH-RISK AREAS

By Chinyere Nwoye

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is intensifying an early efforts aimed at enlightening people and communities in flood prone areas of the country on this year’s flooding and how to prevent loss of lives and property.

The NEMA Director General, Mrs . Zubaida Umar gave this assurance during a courtesy call on the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo at the new Government House, Awka.

While buttressing her points on the reasons for the visit, the DG said that the entourage comprised of NEMA and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

“We have come to brief the governor on the stakeholders engagement exercise on the 2025 National Preparedness and Response Campaign on flood disaster and its related hazards.”

Represented by the Deputy Director Special Duties, Dr. Thickman Tanimu, the NEMA boss noted that the aim of the exercise would be successful with the support of SEMAs, LEMCs and community volunteers across the country.

“The NEMA Zonal Directorates and Operations Offices spread across the nation would simultaneously drive the engagement process at the state and community levels.

“We are calling on all stakeholders to support NEMA in the initiative of taking the early warning messages to the people to safeguard against past experiences.

“The role of traditional institutions, religious organizations, women and youth groups and the media has become paramount in this effort.

“I find it necessary, our esteemed partners, distinguished ladies and gentlemen to stress that disaster management across the world is predicated on community participation and due consideration to diversity of persons; leaving no one behind.

As we always emphasize at NEMA, ‘‘disaster management is everyone’s business, we must work together to take the right and early warning to specific groups to safeguard communities at risk.”

She called for the protection of critical infrastructure and the support of uninterrupted socio-economic activities in the various communities across the nation saying it will go a long way in reducing the impacts of the annually recurring floods and safeguard the livelihoods of the people.

She added that this could be the guaranteed path of driving socio-economic growth and development in line with the renewed hope agenda of the federal government.

“The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo said the state having some of the flood prone local government areas, is always on top of the situation in terms of preparedness and proactive measures against the natural occurrence,” she said.

Anambra State Governor represented by his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, said that his administration is very deliberate about the termination of all water channels in the various roads being constructed in the state as the contractors are mandated to channel drainage ways down to nearby rivers to avoid flash flooding.

“While flood disaster is a natural disaster, the state is taking deliberate actions to discourage people from building on waterways and blocking drainage channels.

“In readiness for any flood menace, plans are on to have game facilities and other basic amenities in all the holding camps and centres in the state to make it more habitable within the period.”

In attendance at the meeting were, the Commissioners for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, his counterpart in the Ministry of Information, Dr. Law Mefor, the Executive Secretary, SEMA, Chief Paul Odenigbo and others.

  • Nwoye is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ERUDITE ENTREPRENEURIAL PROFESSOR, ALEXANDER IKEME GOES HOME AMID EULOGIES

By Osegbue Patricia

It was a solemn moment as eminent personalities eulogised the Entrepreneurial Professor Alexander Ikeme, aged 72 as his remains were interred at his home town Onitsha Ado on June 6.

Late Prof. Ikeme, an illustrious son of Onitsha Ado, was the founding father and Director of Centre for Entrepreneurship and Development Research ( CEDR), University of Nigeria Nsukka. He was also the Director Entrepreneurship Development Centre ( EDC), Southeast.

The burial Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Inland Town, Onitsha recorded dozens of Catholic Priests, including the Onitsha Archdiocesan Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Johnbosco Okafor representing His Lordship, Archbishop Valerian Maduka Okeke; religious men and women as well as Anglican Communion priests.

University of Nigeria Staff turned out en masse both from Nsukka and Enugu Campus to witness the burial of their own and to bid him farewell.

Government officials and many personalities were also present among whom are Anambra State Commissioner for Youths and Development, Mr Patrick Agha Mba and former Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr C Onukwuba.

Delivering the homily, the Parish Priest of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Rev. Fr. Samuel Uzondu described late Prof. Ikeme as a man who did not live his life alone but lived his life for others, “He enjoyed giving other people opportunities, very humourous and kind hearted,” he said.

Fr. Uzondu admonished the children of the deceased to live on with the legacy their father has left behind.

In an interview with the Commissioner for Youths , Agha Mba, he described late Ikeme as a featuristic fellow who believed in human development through entrepreneuralship.

Commissioner Agha Mba said, “There is no way you will talk about entrepreneurship in Africa and world around without mentioning Prof. Ikeme.

“Prof. Ikeme was a great mentor and a father to Onitsha youths which necessitated his taking the leadership of Onitsha Advanced Foundation (ONAF) established by His Royal Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe.

ONAF which focused on skill acquisition, entrepreneurship and small scale business (SMES) was a tool of transformation by late Prof Ikeme to many Onitsha youths, thereby removing their mindsets from consumption and entertainment to productive entrepreneurs and employers of labour.

“His demise is a great loss to the whole world not just Onitsha, but also to academic community,” he said.

While giving God glory for everything, the commissioner prayed for the deceased soul to rest in peace.

In a statement by Mr. Reuben Amaechi Agu, a lecturer at UNN, he said that late Prof. believed strongly in teaching people how to fish rather than giving them fish. His passion for empowering others with sustainable skills and knowledge birthed many businesses and transformed countless lives.

I saw in him a man of deep intelligence, of remarkable humility, and of fierce devotion to his family.

In a statement by Mr Raul Achukwu, late Ikeme was an erudite professor and humanitarian champion who was passionate and focused on humanitarian development.

“Prof Alex Ikeme did not just lead, he inspired, nurtured and uplifted everyone privileged to cross his path”

Prof. Ikeme according to family who died on March 4, was born on April 23, 1953 to the family of late Barr. Alexander Muofunanya of Ogboza village in Onitsha Anambra State

He attended Dennis Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha (DMGS) then, he proceeded to UNN where he obtained his first degree certificate in Animal Science in the year 1976. After this he travelled to America for his postgraduate studies. He later came back to Nigeria and worked as a lecturer in the Department of Food Science and Technology at UNN where he obtained professorship in 1996.

The deceased worked in different capacities, his passion was to bridge learning and earning through entrepreneuralship training and education with a view to contributing to economic and social stability, industrialization and development of emerging economy.

The man who made the world better than he met it will be fondly remembered by his lovely wife, six children, grandchildren and many other relatives.

Patricia is of the Ministry of information, Anambra State

APAKAMA APPRECIATES SOLUDO’S DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

By Michael Ezenwata

The President, Association of Anambra Chambers of Commerce Industies, Mines and Agriculture (AACCIMA) Pharmacist Uche Apakama has expressed satisfaction that Governor Chukwuma Soludo has created an enabling environment for Anambra State to move to enviable heights.

Apakama gave the indication in Awka at the private sector stakeholders and round table meeting with Governor Chukwuma Soludo on the Anambra Business enabling reforms.

According to the Chief Executive Officer, PAXS Pharmaceutical Limited, the meeting is apt for the cross fertilization of ideas by stakeholders on creating a brighter future for Anambra’s investment potentials.

He believes that Anambra has vast potentials for industrial growth which all relevant stakeholders should key into to make Anambra a liveable and prosperous homeland.

Pharmacist Apakama further expects that under the progressive administration of Governor Soludo,all hands should be on deck to promote trade and commerce under the convivial enabling environment the governor has created.

  • Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: KEY STAKEHOLDERS SUGGEST METHODS TO CURB PLASTIC POLLUTION

By Michael Ezenwata

Every 5th of June, environmental experts converge at various locations to brainstorm on how to improve the world’s ecosystem.

For this year,emphasis has shifted to plastic pollution which has negative consequences globally.

This year’s theme,”Together we can beat plastic pollution, let’s tackle it’,has raised lots of mind bogging negative consequences of the accumulation of the non degradable materials polluting nature’s ecosystem.

The Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka campus celebrated the event drawing key stakeholders to brainstorm on the way forward.

In a message to this year’s occasion,a retired Director in the National Population Commission situated in Awka, Anambra State and former State Chairman, Town planners Association of Nigeria, Joachim Ulasi recommended waste to wealth strategy as a means to reduce plastic pollution and to leverage on its economic benefits.

The town planning expert further appealed to the consciences of the general public to do the right thing which is the proper disposal of plastic materials at appropriate places.

Stakeholders at the forum such as the state Commissioner for Environment, Dr.Felix Odimegwu spoke of the imperatives of proper plastic disposal to reduce pollution in the environment.

  • Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

PLANS UNDERWAY TO GIVE NWAFOR ORIZU COLLEGE OF EDUCATION A FACE-LIFT, AS GOVERNMENT SETS UP COMMITTEE

By Adaobi Nsofor

A- 7- man Committee has been set up by the Anambra State Government, to look into dilapidating state of the Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, and come up with master plans for complete overhaul of the College.

During a tour of the Institution, the Committee noted that some of the infrastructures are old fashioned and dilapidated, which calls for immediate renovation.

The chairman of the committee, Prof Charles O.Ofoegbu stated that the committee came to get a first hand information of the state of the college, find out to what extent the master plans conforms to what is required of the college, before Mr Governor’s approval for renovations.

“We toured the school library, the school laboratory, the market, and we concluded that the buildings need to be demolished and rebuild to become a modern structure”

“There’s also a call for the reconstruction of the college roads which is totally bad, there are some shanty places that calls for change, so we’ll look at them and then advise the government on what to do”, Prof.Ofoegbu added.

Prof.Ofoegbu noted that the committee will, at the end of the visit write a report and submit to Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC), in which they will consider and approve some contracts to transform the school to modern day institution of higher learning.

The Provost of the College of Education, Dr. Justina Anyadiegwu, emphasised that although there’s an ongoing work already, the school needs the intervention of the state government for renovation of most infrastructures.

The 7-man committee includes; the MD, Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company, Prof.Charles O.Ofoegbu as the Chairman, Commissioner for Education, Commissioner for Housing, Commissioner for Lands, SSA to the Governor on Special Projects, MD, Urban and Regional Planning, and MD, Town Planning Authority.

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

ANAMBRA GOVT PROHIBITS MEDICAL MISSIONS, OUTREACHES WITHOUT MINISTRY APPROVAL

By Chris Chikelue

Anambra State Government has reminded Individuals and Corporate bodies in the state that conducting medical missions or outreaches without prior Ministry of Health approval is prohibited.

This was contained in a circular from the State Ministry of Health made public on Thursday, June 5 and signed by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike.

The circular titled, ‘Attention: General Public, Communities, NGOs Faith-Based Organizations, Public and Private Health Facility Owners among other stipulations stated:

“The Ministry of Health under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, and the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Obidike Afam Ben reminds all stakeholders that conducting medical missions or outreaches without prior Ministry approval is prohibited.

“This measure ensures patient safety, aligns with best practices, and upholds public health standards in Anambra State.”

While analysing why approval from the Ministry of Health before every medical outreach should be conducted the circular outlined that it is for protecting public health which in turn would prevent harm from unsafe procedures, counterfeit medications, or poor infection control.

“Ensuring high standards of care: Guarantees outreach meets global healthcare standard.

“Preventing public health risks: Avoids disease outbreaks and integrates efforts into state health strategies.

“Strengthening collaboration: Promotes synergy between stakeholders and the Ministry for impactful healthcare delivery.”

While showing steps to follow to obtain this approval, the government circular pointed that an application addressed to the Honourable Commissioner for Health must be submitted to the ministry.

The application must provide outreach details, including dates, locations, services, qualifications of health professionals and a list of medical supplies to be made.

There must also be an engagement with local communities vis-a-vis consulting with community leaders for smooth cooperation.

Other requirements for the submission of the application is to ensure safety compliance where adherence will be made to infection prevention, waste disposal and emergency protocols.

The application is expected to be submitted on time, at least 30 days before the proposed outreach date.

Consequences of non-compliance to the directive is the stoppage of such exercise and violators would be liable to pay penalties, which would include payment of fines, license revocation, or legal action.

According to the circular, the Ministry of Health is in support of all efforts and provides guidance to ensure successful, safe and impactful medical missions.

The contact information according to the circular is the Headquarters of the Health Ministry at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka.

Lines to call are- for emergency: 08057655442; for general complaints: 09135169905; and for anonymous reports 07013197263.

  • Chikelue is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

GOVERNOR SOLUDO MOURNS PASSAGE OF HIGHLIFE ICON MIKE EJEAGHA AT 95

Press Release

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has conveyed his deep grief over the demise of renowned Nigerian highlife icon, Chief Mike Ejeagha, who passed on peacefully on Saturday at the venerable age of 95.

In his condolence message, Governor Soludo eulogised Chief Ejeagha as a deeply philosophical musician, an iconic cultural ambassador and an exemplary custodian of Igbo oral traditions. His music, characterised by a unique blend of highlife rhythms and captivating storytelling, resonated profoundly throughout Nigeria despite his Igbo linguistic expression.

The Governor recalled that with timeless compositions like the unforgettable “Gwo Gwo Gwo Ngwo,” the late musical legend not only entertained but also educated Nigerians, preserving our rich cultural heritage and promoting the vibrancy of Igbo folklore through his lyrics.

As a prolific exponent of highlife music, Chief Ejeagha also pioneered a sound that encapsulated the essence of the Nigerian experience, effectively bridging generational identities in a career spanning several decades and earning himself a distinguished place as a national icon.

Thus, Governor Soludo mourns this tremendous loss of Chief Mike Ejeagha, a maestro whose melodies brought joy, hope, and unity to Nigerians.

May his soul rest in peace as his family also finds solace during this difficult time.

Signed,

Christian Aburime
Press Secretary to the Governor

June 7, 2025

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