News

UDHR : CLO CHARGES GOVERNMENT TO MONITOR ACTIVITIES OF MISSION, PRIVATE SCHOOLS, OTHERS

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The Anambra State Chapter of Civil Liberties Organization(CLO), on Dec. 10, lamented on the exploitative and outrageous fees charges by majority of mission and private schools in Nigeria, saying that education as a veritable and inevitable weapon to fight ignorance, poverty, etc must be given priority attentions.

Making the lamentation while marking the 76th anniversary of Universal Declaration of People’s and Human Rights, UDHR, that is celebrated globally, the state CLO Chairman, comrade Evangelist Vincent Ezekwueme lamented that most pathetic and despicable is that government uses public funds to pay salaries, allowances and gratuity of their staff.

“We reiterate our incessant appeal for establishing primary and secondary schools in Mba Farm, 3-3, Nsugbe, Oze, Nkwelle axis, the only government schools in these areas are Oyolu Primary and Nkwelle Community Secondary Schools.

“It is incredible but existential reality that one Mission School at Onitsha collects little above N500,000 for JSS 1 students, whereas students entering SSS1 in the same school pay above N400,000 yet government failed to play its regulatory roles.

“”We Commend Governor Soludo for his educational revolution in the state, extending free education to SSS 3 and demotion of six principals for exploitation and extortion, such watchdog and monitoring should be extended to mission and private schools.

“With a gun you can kill a terrorist but with education, employment and skill acquisition you can kill terrorism. Citizens must adhere strictly to God’s commandments, ‘thou shall not kill,” he stated.

According to the group, Governments at all levels should live up to their responsibility if we lost glory of the country would be restored and employment opportunities created for the youths to have something doing.

“There is no day without ugly report of criminal activities in the state especially incessant killings, kidnapping, cultism and cult related violence, armed robbery, youth restiveness and what have you.

“We appeal to perpetrators to give peace a chance and embrace dialogue. Government should provide empowerments, skills acquisitions, employment opportunities and constant town hall meetings.”

*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA LAWMAKER ILOH CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY WITH N10M EMPOWERMENT FOR 180 IHIALA WOMEN, ENROLLS 100 IN ASHIA

By Chizoba Okeke :

The atmosphere in Ihiala Constituency Two was filled with joy and excitement as the member representing the constituency at the Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr.Golden Iloh marked his birthday celebration by empowering 180 women involved in petty trading with a total sum of N10million.

The celebration, held at his country home in Okija, witnessed the presence of stakeholders of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and well wishers. According to the lawmaker, flanked by wife, Mrs Chioma, the initiative was aimed at improving the lives of women in his constituency and boosting their financial independence.

He said that he has begun enrollment processes for 100 women into Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIA), to ensure that they have access to affordable and quality healthcare services.

The lawmaker, explained that the gesture was inspired by a covenant he had made with his late mother to always uplift the lives of women and the underprivileged, which aligns with his campaign promises to bring meaningful development to his constituency.

Speaking, Ihiala Local Government Chairman, Mr. Anayo Orjiakor, and APGA Chairman of the Council Area, Architect Chijioke Okoye, appreciated the benefactor for his kind gesture, saying that more of such initiative are expected from well to do individuals in the local government area.

Also Pastor Tony-Daniels Arinzechukwu of Shekina Love Assembly, commended the lawmaker for his kindness and commitment to well-being of his people, while the beneficiaries including, Mrs Cecelia Onyedike, and Mrs Josephine Okeke described him as a leader who truly understands the needs of his people.

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

ANAMBRA’S SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS SHINE IN GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S YOUTH EMPOWERMENT DRIVE

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

Students with special needs in Anambra State are actively participating in Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s initiatives to equip the next generation with practical skills and opportunities for self-reliance.

During a recent visit to the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, the management of God’s Care Special Children’s School, Awka, showcased products crafted by their students. Among the items presented were various types of footwear and a handmade box, reflecting the students’ creativity and skill.

Commending their efforts, Commissioner Chuma-Udeh expressed delight at the students’ achievements, affirming the adage,”There is ability in disability”.

She encouraged other special needs students across the state to emulate the entrepreneurial spirit displayed by those at God’s Care Special Children’s School.

*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

WORKS COMMENCES ON UMUONA-AGULUZOIGBO -NANKA ROAD

By Sunday Okoli :

Construction work has commenced on Umuona-Aguluzoigbo -Nanka Road project recently awarded by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo in the last two EXCO meeting.

The handover ceremony of the road was performed by the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Ifeanyi Okoma. He charged the contractor to expedite action on the road and complete within schedule.

The Commissioner who was represented by the Director of Planning, Design and Structural Department in the Ministry, Engr. Obi Okafor said that the road will connect Umuona, Aguluzoigbo and Nnaka communities. He said that the contract was in continuation of Mr. Governor’s promise to give Ndi Anambra dividend of democracy. According to the Commissioner, the completion period of the contract is 12 months.

On his part, the Area Manager of IDC Construction Ltd, Engr. Youssef Zghib promised to deliver the works on schedule and according to specifications as contained in the BEME.

*Sunday is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA HEALTH COMMISSIONER URGES STAKEHOLDERS ON IMMUNIZATIONS ROLES

By Nnedinma Okeke :

As part of Pre implementation activities to ensure success in the Big Catch Up (BCU) campaign to be held in nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) with zero dose/unimmunized children, Stakeholders in a meeting has been urged to play their roles by ensuring immunization message gets to grassroots.

The nine LGAs includes: Aguata, Ayamelum, Anaocha, Idemili North, Idemili South, Ihiala, Orumba North, Orumba South, and Nnewi South LGAs respectively.

The Stakeholders Engagement/Town hall meeting for the BCU exercise was organised by the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners.

Commissioner, SMOH, Dr Afam Obidike represented by the Permanent Secretary, SMOH, Pharm Obiageli Uchebo noted that immunization campaigns were opportunities for Stakeholders to play their roles in their respective communities.

“This is the time for us to inform, sensitize, and educate our people on vaccinations which is important, and key in eliminating vaccine preventable diseases.”

He explained that the catch-up exercise was an opportunity for missed children of zero to 59 months of age to be reached and immunised as vaccinations has drastically reduced deaths and abnormalities caused by vaccine preventable diseases.

The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem emphasized that immunization messages were life saving messages toward good health and well-being for all.

The ES represented by the Director Disease Control and Immunization, ASPHCDA, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi pleaded the Stakeholders to ensure that the immunization messages get to every part of their communities to ensure that no missed child was left unimmunized.

The Anambra State Chapter, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Venerable Joseph Nweke, thanked the State Government and Partners supporting the programme for all their efforts in ensuring that children were protected from vaccine preventable diseases.

He assured that Religious leaders would play their roles in ensuring that the BCU campaign was successful in the implementing LGAs of the State.

Prince Chris Azor, Chairman Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Anambra, noting that idea behind the BCU campaign was not to leave any child unimmunized, assured of CSOs support in informing and sensitising people on the exercise for it to achieve its desired results.

The meeting had in attendance: Traditional Rulers, Religious leaders, Presidents General, Women Leaders, Youths, CSOs, Education Stakeholders, the Media, State Team, and Partners.

*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

TREFOIL GUILD APPLAUDS GOVERNOR SOLUDO’S GENDER-INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP, INDUCTS PROF. NGOZI CHUMA-UDEH

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

The Trefoil Guild, a branch of the Girls’ Guild Association, has praised Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for achieving the association’s 30% female inclusion benchmark in his administration.

During an advocacy visit to the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, at the Ministry of Education in Awka, the guild expressed its support for the governor’s commitment to gender equality.

In her remarks, Prof. Chuma-Udeh appreciated the association for recognizing Gov. Soludo’s gender-friendly policies and for inducting her as a member of the Trefoil Guild. She lauded the Girls’ Guild for its dedication to empowering young girls and preparing them to face life’s challenges.

Dr. Ngozi Amalu-Okpala, the team leader, highlighted that the visit was part of the annual United Nations 16 day activism against domestic violence and abuse of women and girls. She commended Gov. Soludo’s inclusion of women in leadership, emphasizing its alignment with the guild’s mission of advocacy and empowerment.

Former Commissioner for Women Affairs and guild member TG Bridget Obi further stressed the importance of women’s inclusion in decision-making processes, noting that their participation ensures balance and societal growth. She called for an end to all forms of domestic violence, including physical, mental, and financial abuse, and advocated for increased education for boys as a way to foster equality and reduce gender-based conflicts.

The visit culminated in the induction of Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh as a member of the Trefoil Guild, with the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, and the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nnaemeka Egwuonwu, in attendance.

*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

CHRISTMAS: ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY SPEAKER URGES PARLIAMENTARY STAFF TO EMBRACE SPIRIT OF SERVICE, UNITY

By Chizoba Okeke :

The Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Somtochukwu Udeze, has urged the state parliamentary staff to imbibe the spirit of service, unity, and hope as they reflect on the lessons of Christmas.

Speaking during the 2024 Carol and Nine Lessons organized by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria, Anambra State Chapter, held at state legislative complex, the Speaker emphasized the significance of the occasion in strengthening bonds and renewing commitment to service.

Udeze expressed gratitude to the parliamentary staff for their unwavering dedication and sacrifices throughout the year. “Your commitment and sacrifices have been nothing short of exemplary. You embody the lesson of service, echoing the angels’ proclamation: Thank you for being the unseen hands and hearts behind our collective successes,” he said.

He also commended the lawmakers in the Assembly for their steadfastness in fulfilling their legislative responsibilities, likening them to the shepherds who kept watch by night, ready to respond when called.

In his remarks, the Clerk of the Assembly, Mr. Anthony Ughenu, described the event as a time for reflection and renewal, noting that such gatherings offer an opportunity for the parliamentary staff to rekindle their dedication to duty and strengthen their bonds as a team working toward the progress of the state.

Earlier in his address, the PASAN Chairman, Mr. Abraham Okoye highlighted the importance of the Carol and Nine Lessons event as an opportunity to foster unity and shared purpose among the parliamentary staff and expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Assembly for their continued support, encouraging his colleagues to remain steadfast in their duties.

*Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

GOV. SOLUDO REVOLUTIONIZING ROAD CONSTRUCTION ACROSS THE STATE

By Sunday Okoli :

Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration has made significant strides in developing Anambra State’s infrastructure. Within 32 months in office, the administration has awarded 641.121 kilometers of roads, with 316km already asphalted

According to the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Ifeanyi Okoma who revealed this in a press briefing in his office, this feat was achieved without borrowing or owing contractors.

The commissioner noted that Soludo administration has made substantial progress in fulfilling its social contract with the people of Anambra State. The administration’s road construction projects are designed to last at least 20 years, utilizing the latest technology.

“These projects, spread across the state’s three senatorial zones, aimed to connect lives, foster unity, and stimulate economic growth. With improved roads, residents and businesses will enjoy safer, faster, and more efficient travel, unlocking new opportunities for trade, commerce, and investment,” he maintained.

He urged residents to take ownership of the infrastructure built by the government.

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

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON UMUONA-AGULUZOIGBO -NANKA ROAD

By Sunday Okoli :

Construction works has commenced on Umuona-Aguluzoigbo -Nanka Road project.

Speaking during the hand over ceremony, the Commissioner for Works, Mr. Ifeanyi Okoma noted that the road was awarded by Governor Chukwuma Soludo in the last two Executive Council meetings.

Represented by the Director of Planning, Design and Structural Department in the Ministry, Mr. Obi Okafor

the commissioner maintained that “the road will connect Umuona, Aguluzoigbo, and Nnaka communities, fulfilling Governor Soludo’s promise to deliver the dividend of democracy to Ndi Anambra. The project is expected to be completed within 12 months.” He urged the contractor to expedite the project and complete it within the scheduled timeframe.

The Area Manager of IDC Construction Ltd, Mr. Youssef Zghib, assured that the work will be delivered on schedule and according to specifications.

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

ANAMBRA GOVT MEETS MEMBERS OF SCRAP DEALERS AND SCAVENGERS; PLANS TO HALT CRIMINALITY, ILLEGALITY

By Lilian Ezejiegu :

The Anambra State Government through the Ministry of Environment has expressed Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s commitment toward ensuring sanity and legality of scrap dealers and their members in the State.

The Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Felix Odimegwu, represented by the Permanent Secretary of Environment, Mr Tochukwu Obodogha while addressing a group of Anambra Scrap Dealers and Scavengers Association said that the Essence of the meeting is to plan on how to make Anambra great and stop all sorts of criminality and illegality in the state.

During the meeting yesterday, Mr Tochukwu stressed that the stealing and vandalisation of Private and Public goods, properties and infrastructure shall be put to a stop in the state.

“We want to prevent trading of stolen or vandalized goods, properties and infrastructure in the state.

“No more loitering around of scavengers at odd hours especially when people have left their houses or when students have gone to school.”

He also highlighted that the pit shall have specialized visits to the location where the scrap dealers have trading pits in the state from time to time by the Ministry of Environment which comprises the officers of Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (Ocha Brigade) and the Special Anti-Touting Squad in Anambra (SASA). “If they examine these pits to contain any stolen or vandalized properties, it shall result in the arrest and prosecution of the owners and possible sealing of that pit.

“We have restricted all scavengers movement in the streets and refuse bins. All scavenging activities shall be done at the dump sites for now until we have a proper regulations of who will be going around to scavenge.

“Scavengers will be identified with Identification Cards. Any Scavengers who want to engage in scavenging work and does not have identification card will be arrested and prosecuted especially any movement at odd hours.

Obodogha opined that all dealers will be identified with their Certificate at their pit so as to get rid of bad element among them.

To this effect, Anambra State Government did not ban Metal Scrap Waste Management but restricted the illegality activities that constitute criminality in the state. It is part of circular economy, he said.

“We want you to work hand in hand with the state government to ensure all sorts of criminalities are stopped immediately.

The Chairman of the Anambra Scrap Dealers and Scavengers Association, Mr. Stephen Azubuike Igboke, has praised the state government’s efforts to address the challenges facing the industry. However, he also appealed to the government to take action against impostors who are masquerading as legitimate scrap dealers and scavengers, thereby disrupting their business operations.

A Scrap Dealer, Mr. Dominic Ndubuisi Nkwuda’s statement highlights the importance of regulating the scrap metal industry in Anambra State. By stabilizing the industry, the government can help reduce criminal activities, such as theft and vandalism, which are often associated with scrap metal dealings.

As a scrap dealer with years of experience, He acknowledged that there are “bad eggs” in the industry, but believed that the government can work with legitimate scrap dealers to identify and eliminate fake or illegal operators.

Also Present in the meeting include Director of Environmental Health and Pollution Control(EHPC) Rev. Sr. Dr Monique Okeke, HOD Accounts Mrs Nkemakonam Imoka.

*Lilian is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State