News

ANAMBRA COMMISSIONERS, OTHERS EMBARK ON INSPECTION OF THE ON-GOING REHABILITATION OF GREATER AWKA WATER SCHEME

By Azuka Offor

In line with the Anambra State Governor’s vision of embracing green energy as a primary source of power for our water schemes, and to ascertain how far the water resuscitation has gone, the Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka and his information counterpart, Dr. Law Mefor, the managing Director of Anambra State Urban Water Assets Holding Cooperation, Engr. Ikeobi Ejiofor, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Power and Water Resources Sir. Victor Ezekwo, the Director for Water of the ministry, Mr Nwosu Tochukwu and others has embarked on the inspection of the on-going rehabilitation of the greater Awka water scheme in the state capital.

Speaking shortly after the inspection, the Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka praised the Soludo’s Administration for its efforts in revitalizing water schemes across Anambra State which will in turn lead to environmental sustainability.

He maintained that Gov. Soludo’s Administration has the downtrodden at heart that is why he brought free education, free antinental, free toilet facilities, free solar driven water supply to Ndi Anambra.

He, then, promised that the project when completed, will help to ease the tension of lack of water supply to the entire Awka, the state capital.

On his part, the Commissioner for Information Anambra State, Dr. Law Mefor while addressing newsmen shortly after the inspection maintained that Gov. Soludo’s Administration is keen in fulfilling his manifesto promises to Ndi Anambra.

According to him, I have been hearing the numerous achievements from Soludo’s Administration but today, I am glad to be physically present to see for myself.

He, then, assured his readiness to work with all the ministries in the state to make sure that all the achievements of the Soludo’s Administration will be well reported through strategic communications.

Also speaking, the Managing Director, Anambra State Urban Water Assets Holding Cooperation, Engr. Ikeobi Ejiofor, discribed Gov. Soludo as the “gear changer” by advancing the water sector in Anambra State.

Engr. Ikeobi, maintained that for over 20 years, Anambra State has no public water supply system, but as Soludo’s Administration came in, gave a promise on water supply in the state, and now the promise has come to reality as we have the greater Awka Urban Water Scheme, the Water Board is now back, rebranded as the Anambra State Urban Assets Holding Cooperation, having its headquarter under renovation.

He applauded the state government for the Public, Private Community Partnership (PPCP) model where the state government engages stakeholders, the investors and Ndi Anambra to be part of the dream to drive the sector forward and to be part of the work design, execution and management of the water project.

He thanked the state government for the collaboration between the Ministry of Power and Water Resources and the Anambra State Urban Water Assets Holding Cooperation for provision of clean and potable water supply to the state at large, promising that soonest, Anambra will be a hub for the proper management of water schemes.

Other officials who joined the inspection team includes the General Manager Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP) Dr. Okechukwu Ikeze Obi, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on projects Engr Ebuka Nwankwo.

*Azuka is of the Ministry of Information Anambra State.

SOLUDO’S WORRY FOR SOCIAL REFORMATION: COMMISSIONER MEFOR MOVES TO ENSURE IMMEDIATE TAKEOFF OF ANCISRO

By Rose Oranye :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, on Friday, October 11, 2024, visited the newly created Anambra Civic and Social Reformation Office (ANCISRO).

Addressing the ANCISRO MD, Sir Chuka Nnabuife, Mefor said he was there to further familiarise himself and look at the office’s core mandate and challenges to see where the ministry can assist in its take off.

He urged the MD to work hard despite initial challenges to re-orientate the youths so that they can see life from a positive perspective. “Governor Soludo wants to see Anambra youths regain perspective and need to imbibe the core values for which Ndigbo are reputed – hard work, resilience, honesty, integrity, enterprise and so on

“The truth is many of our youths don’t believe in hard work anymore. Your agency has to work hard on the issue of drug abuse which to me is escapist in nature. The youths like to hide behind drugs and most of the drugs they take are hard. Hard drugs work on the mind and psyche of the individuals that take them,” he said.

Mefor talked about what he called Opponent Process in drug abuse – the biological changes that make the abuser to require higher dosage as he or she progresses, ultimately leading up to drug dependence and addiction. “Many of the psychedelic and psychotropic substances being abused by youths can irreversibly damage the nervous system, and can result in schizophrenia ie madness, and even death. We have to save our youths,” he said.

Welcoming the commissioner, Sir Nnabuife appreciated the visit, saying he came at a time when the collaboration is well needed, adding that the agency is working to reform the youths against the vices of get-rich-quick syndrome, drug abuse, human rights and environmental abuse, among others and instil in them the core values of Anambra, which is hard work, enterprise, apprenticeship, academic excellence and strong religious faith, among others.

ONE BLIND ONE CANE CAMPAIGN OF THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED IN ONITSHA NORTH

By Nkiru Mbunabo /Antonia Amaechina/Uche Azuka/Claribel Udah/Chioma Nwankwo/Chika Obi :

The Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Nweze Tony Nwora, at All Saints Cathedral Church Onitsha, delivered an inspiring message to the visually impaired during the “One Blind One Cane” campaign organized by the National Association of the Blind, Anambra State Chapter, in collaboration with the Anambra State Signage and Advertising Agency (ANSAA).

Mayor Nwora urged members of the visually impaired community to “never look down on themselves”, emphasizing the importance of resilience even as he encouraged them to envisage a future where they can achieve their goal, saying that God has given them a talent to help them live a productive life.

Looking at the eagerness on their faces, he recognized their determination to thrive despite their challenges, saying he always put God first and advised them to do likewise.

Mr Tony Odili Ujubuonu MD/CEO of ANSAA who was represented by the General Manager, Mr Chijioke Agbayim, noted the significance of the event and thanked all partners for their contribution to the campaign’s success.

Mr Chizoba Orji, Chairman of the White Cane campaign praised the partnership with ANSAA and acknowledged the effort of the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for employing 20 members of the visually impaired community in a recent recruitment drive for teachers.

Mr Ernest Okanmelu, Chairman of the Association of the Blind, Anambra State expressed gratitude to Mayor Nwora for his support and commitment in partnering with the association.

He also commended ANSAA for their efforts with the campaign, highlighting also the initiative by Gov. Soludo’s administration to empower individuals with disabilities, including efforts championed by Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo through her pet project.

Students from different schools of the visually impaired graced the occasion and it is also a big reminder and a collective responsibility to uplift and empower the visually impaired in our community.

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

ANAMBRA UNVEILS SME SUPPORT PLANS

By Chizoba Njaka :

The Anambra State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) Committee, in partnership with the Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA) and ANSIPPA, invites the public to an informative session titled “Financing the Future: Expanding Credit Opportunities for SMEs in Anambra State.” This event aims to promote Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the state by exploring innovative financing solutions and sharing valuable insights.

This was made known in an official documents released by ANSIPPA, at Awka, stating that the action is part of their commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.

It noted also that the session would provide valuable insights into expanding credit opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Anambra State.

ANSIPPA further stated that the move is to ensure proper dissemination of information, as the session would be conducted in two formats: a physical event which will take effect on October 15th, 2024 at International Convention Center, Awka while the virtual session will be on October 17th, 2024.

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

THE RED CAP OF SOLUTION ON DR LAW MEFOR’S HEAD

Maxim Uzoatu :

When the red cap of a titled man bears the legend “Solution is Here”, one must indeed take notice and pay attention.

People are used to seeing “Solution is Here” written on workaday face caps, but this is the first time one is seeing the progressive sign emblazoned on a red cap.

According to tradition, the red-capped Nze does not tell lies, and this happens to be the testament of Dr. Law Mefor ever since he was appointed the Commissioner for Information of Anambra State by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.

The cap fits in shining redness on the head of the information guru who is determined to bring to fruition Governor Soludo’s promise of turning Anambra State into a peaceful and prosperous homeland.

Dr. Mefor states upfront that Governor Soludo’s legacies are enduring, stressing that Mr. Governor’s Anambra 2070 vision and his gubernatorial manifesto provide blueprints for the much needed transformation presently happening in the state.

According to the personable Dr Mefor, “Soludo’s vision is to make Anambra a model for other states in Nigeria. He aims to achieve this through infrastructural development, education and economic growth. With his experience and expertise as a former Governor of CBN and his elaborate exposure, Soludo is well-equipped to drive this transformation.”

Mefor informs all that Soludo is building roads with a 20-50-year lifespan, and connecting every local government in Anambra. He reveals that the Governor is setting up internet hubs and laying broadband infrastructure for seamless connectivity.

In the commissioner’s words, “This means that governments after him will not have to worry about infrastructure decay but would rather concentrate on other sectors of the Anambra economy.”

“Soludo’s free education policy will liberate Ndi-Anambra,” he asserts, adding, “His administration promotes cash crops, providing improved seedlings, coconut, and palm oil seeds for a multiplier effect in the next decade. Just like what happened in Ghana, everywhere in Anambra in the coming years will boast of an economic tree that can provide ambiance to the environment and also make money for families in the state, no matter how small.”

Commissioner Mefor assures that Soludo’s government in Anambra will maintain fiscal sustainability, arguing that Anambra now ranks among the top states in terms of fiscal sustainability and viability.

“We now truly have free education in Anambra,” Mefor said. “In all public schools, we should be able to guarantee that every child has access to free and qualitative education, especially to the poorest of the poor. We have posted over 2000 teachers to mission schools as a way of subsidising education. There are no smart teachers without smart schools. We are gradually upscaling technology in our schools, with the current laying of over 2000 fibre optic cables.

Because we declared truly free education, enrolment in public schools increased by 18 percent and out-of-school children dropped by 2 percent, making Anambra the number one state with the lowest percentage of out-of-school children.”

For him, human capital is the greatest asset of Anambra State, and the government is working to create human capital that is productive at home and exportable abroad, leaving no one behind as true progressives.

Dr Mefor makes further revelations thusly: “Soludo has made strides in all sectors of the state economy, including recruitment of 8115 teachers, updating of the STEM education, payment for funding of UBEC, among others. With the mission schools, we still have thousands of teachers in them, and we will continue to pay the billions to cover their salaries. That’s the way we help to subsidise.”

He cites the fact that Anambra has been recognised as the third most viable state to do business in Nigeria, after Lagos and Rivers.

Mefor does not mince words in stating: “Soludo’s initiatives will make Anambra a model for states across Nigeria. Soludo envisions Anambra as a natural one-city state, connecting Ndi-Anambra through road infrastructure and technology. He is working towards 100 percent export from Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri, thus connecting Anambra to the world.”

The red cap-wearing commissioner iterates that Governor Soludo uses Anambra’s resources without borrowing, despite the State House of Assembly’s approval for a 100billion Naira loan facility.

Dr Mefor maintains that it is incumbent on Ndi-Anambra to support Soludo’s vision by embracing his policies and participating in the development process, and holding him accountable to his promises.

“By working together, Anambra can achieve its full potential and become a model for other states in Nigeria at large,” Dr Mefor reiterated.

The commissioner leads by personal example through holding meetings with stakeholders such as the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and granting interviews to the radio and TV stations as well as the print and online media.

He has constituted a Solution Weekly Editorial Board Team to publish and disseminate salient Anambra news. He has also initiated the broadcast programme called “Ask the Commissioner” through which each commissioner in the state can engage with the people directly.

Dr Mefor has visited and pledged support for the Anambra Civic and Social Reformation Office (ANCISRO) newly created by Governor Soludo and headed by Sir Chuka Nnabuife as the MD.

In all, Commissioner Mefor puts in all the rigour and effort everyday toward putting Anambra up top with a red thinking cap of truth on his head that spells – Solution is Here!

HEALTH COMMISSIONER ASSURES VACCINES SAFETY AS ANAMBRA SETS FOR MEASLES VACCINATION CAMPAIGN

By Nnedinma Okeke/Chukwudi Nwauba :

In preparation for the Integrated Measles Vaccination Campaign in the State, the Commissioner, State Ministry of Health (SMOH), Dr Afam Obidike has assured of the safety of vaccines as they go through a detailed process before use in the State and Country at large.

The Commissioner gave the assurance during a one-day Town Hall engagement meeting with Stakeholders organised by the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH), and Partners.

The meeting had in attendance, Traditional Rulers, Religious leaders, Presidents General (PGs) of Town Unions, Representatives of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Women Leaders, Youths, Media, ASPHCDA team, and Partners: NPHCDA, UNICEF, WHO, CHAI, and AFENET.

Dr Obidike noted that healthcare workers have been trained on proper management of any adverse effects that may arise following immunization.

“Measles disease is deadly, and to protect our children, we have the duty as Stakeholders in our various communities to ensure that our people are well informed and that they do not miss the opportunity to vaccinate their children against the disease,” he said.

The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem, in her remark noted that as the State sets to commence the Measles vaccination campaign, the town hall meeting would aid enlighten the participants on the need and importance of the vaccination exercise in the state.

“As immunization Ambassadors, we have the capacity to talk to our various communities and the essence of this town hall meeting is to enable us to talk about issues regarding immunization, including those that have transpired in the past, to ensure we do not have a reoccurrence in this campaign.

“We want this campaign to be a success in Anambra State and we do not want hesitancy in any form, as this is for the good of our children and knowledge gained today would enable us give accurate and correct information to our communities on the campaign,” Pharm Uchem said.

The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Representative, Mrs Josephine Erugo in her remarks, commended the works of the Stakeholders in ensuring success of immunization campaigns in Anambra.

She urged for their full support in the forthcoming Intergrated Measles vaccination campaign in the State so that together the State would achieve its desired result of 95 percent coverage with no eligible child left unimmunized.

The UNICEF Vaccine Security and Logistics (VSL) Consultant, Mr Stanley Osum explained that all vaccines procured with the aid of UNICEF for Nigeria were approved by WHO, NAFADAC and all relevant bodies and are safe, potent, and effective.

Representative of UNICEF Abuja Office, Mr Ephraim Ezekiel urged that Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) should always be reported to healthcare workers who then reports it to the Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) for proper investigation and follow-up.

He emphasized that all vaccines for use in the State and Country at large has been tested and certified 100 percent safe and effective for use.

The Traditional Ruler of Uke, Idemili North LGA, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Charles C. Agbala thanked the State Government who through the SMOH and ASPHCDA together with its Partners has organised the Stakeholders meeting to enlighten them on importance of the Measles vaccination campaign.

He assured that Ndi Igwe who were at the grassroots would do their best to support and ensure that the Measles campaign exercise would be fully implemented in their communities despite the infiltration of false information on vaccines.

The Anambra Chapter, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Ven. Joseph Nweke thanked the program organisers for the interventions to save children from deadly diseases.

He assured of the churches support in ensuring that the Integrated Measles vaccination campaign is successful in the State and children protected against the disease.

*Nnedinma, Chukwudi are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

HEALTH TEACHERS URGED TO LEVERAGE ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR HEALTH EDUCATION/SENSITIZATION

By Nnedinma Okeke :

Teachers of Health Education in various schools across the 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State, have been urged to leverage on available platforms and opportunities to educate people about their health and well-being.

The Anambra State Health Educator, Mrs Uju Onwuegbuzina made the call during the Health Education Teachers engagement meeting on the forthcoming Intergrated Measles Campaign in the State.

She urged Health Education Teachers to utilise opportunities available to them such as the Parents, Teachers Association (PTA) meeting to educate/sensitize parents on the advantages of accessing antenatal care and family planning services in health facilities.

This she said would help women live more organised and healthy lives.

The Assistant Family Planning Focal Person in the State Ministry of Health (SMOH), Mrs Stella Opia enumerated to the Teachers some advantages of accessing family planning services which helps in child spacing as pregnancy should be by choice not by chance.

According to her, family planning helps to improve the physical and mental health of a woman and man as it would help them be better prepared and plan before welcoming another child.

“This will help the woman rest physically from the nine months journey of carrying a baby before another pregnancy journey and it could also help in the career and productiveness of a woman both in her home and work front.

“Importance of family planning in families and the society at large are numerous,” Mrs Opia reiterated.

She, then, urged the Health Education Teachers to also leverage on the forthcoming Intergrated Measles vaccination campaign to sensitize mothers on the importance of accessing family planning services as it does not prevent one from having more children.

*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

COMMISSIONER FOR HEALTH HOLDS DATA REVIEW MEETING

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

In a significant move to enhance public health initiatives, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike has convened a data review meeting with key stakeholders from various health sectors.

The gathering aimed to analyze recent health data trends, identify areas needing urgent attention, and strategize for improved healthcare delivery.

Dr. Obidike during the data review meeting held at the Data Operation Centre in the State Ministry of Health, Awka reiterated the commitment of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration in the healthcare sector of the State.

He emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making in addressing public health challenges.

“Accurate data is crucial for developing effective policies and interventions.”

The review included statistics on disease prevalence, vaccination rates, and healthcare access across different demographics.

Health officials presented findings that highlighted both progress and ongoing issues. While vaccination rates have improved in several regions, the meeting underscored disparities in access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas.

Participants discussed actionable strategies to bridge these gaps, including increased funding for community outreach programs.

The Commissioner also announced plans for regular data updates and a new public health dashboard that will be accessible to citizens, promoting transparency and community engagement.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to collaborate with local health departments, partners, and community leaders to implement the proposed strategies effectively.

In attendance during the meeting were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Mrs. Obiageli Uchebo, Acting Director Public Health, Dr. Afam Anaeme, Programme Coordinators and Partners.

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

FLOOD ALERT: AYAMELUM RESIDENTS WARNED OF IMPENDING DISASTER

By Kelechi Achukwu-jide :

As the Cameroonian authorities release water from the Lagdo Dam, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has sounded the alarm, warning residents of Ayamelum Local Government Area, Anambra State to take immediate action to protect lives and property from impending floods.

The State Director, NOA, Mr Edozie Ajaegbu, gave the warning during a flood sensitisation campaign in Anaku community, Ayamelum LGA, one of the flood-prone areas in Anambra State, urging residents to desilt drainages around buildings and avoid constructing houses near water channels.

Mr Ajaegbu also advised residents to be proactive by knowing flood periods and necessary measures to take to avoid being victims.

The Deputy Director Programmes, NOA Awka, Remigus Obi, informed the people of Ayamleum that 11 states, including Anambra, will be affected by the flooding. “Ayamelum will be severely hit.

“We urge you to assist NOA in telling your people to move away from flooding areas for safety.”

Other officials, including Deputy Director Administration, NOA Awka, Barr. Ifeoma Chijioke and Assistant Director Programmes, Mr. Obiorah Ignatius, emphasised the importance of early crop cultivation to avoid devastation.

The President-General of Anaku Community, Mr Paul Nwauba, praised the timely intervention, promising his community’s support and adherence.

The event concluded with the distribution of sensitisation materials.

*Kelechi is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ODERA MARKET GETS FACE-LIFT AS NEW CHAIRMAN UNVEILS WATER PROJECT

By Ukpa Ewa :

Leaders and traders at Odera Market in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State are singing the praises of their new chairman, Mr Nnaemeka Nworah, after he successfully implemented a key water project, bringing an end to 16 years of neglect. The market now boasts a fully functional water system in all streets, providing clean water for all traders.

During an inspection of the project in Awka, Chief Tochukwu Nwokoye, Chairman of Ezinanor community and leader of Ezi Awka, expressed satisfaction with the rapid progress.

“For many years, nothing was done to improve this market, but under two months of the new chairman’s leadership, water is now available everywhere,” Nwokoye said.

Addressing Journalists, the Chairman of Odera Market Mr Nworah, who has been in office for barely two months, shared his vision for the market’s continued development.

“Before I assumed office, I noticed that the market lacked basic facilities like water and toilets. I plan to transform this market in the next two years,” he said, emphasizing his support for Gov. Chukwuma Soludo and his 2025 re-election bid.

Speaking also, the Market Woman Leader, Mrs. Nkiruka Edemobi applauded the swift action taken by the chairman.

“I have been in this market for over 10 years, and this is the first time we are seeing real changes. Water is easily accessible now, and we are happy with the progress,” she said.

Also, the Vice Chairman of Odera Market Mr. Great Ikechukwu, stressed the importance of transforming the market into a modern facility, calling on Gov. Soludo to assist with ongoing erosion issues affecting traders.

“We are working hard to bring Odera Market to limelight, but we need the government’s help to overcome these challenges,” he added.

Mr. Obichukwu Ukora, a chemical and paint trader, also commended the improvements, noting that the chairman had fulfilled his promise to provide water throughout the market, noting that the transformation is evident, praying for his continued success.

The recent upgrades signal a brighter future for Odera Market, with traders and community leaders looking forward to further developments under the current leadership.

Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.