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150 TRAINEES FROM ITF AWKA RECEIVE START UP PACKS…URGED TO UTILIZE OPPORTUNITY

By Uche Kalu :

Any society that neglects the development of its human capital is bound to retrogress in terms of growth and development. It is especially worrisome in Nigeria that even in the face of existing vacancies in several sectors of the economy, youths roam the streets without any form of gainful employment, giving rise to crimes and other social vices that bedevil the nation.

The Director General and Chief Executive of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Ariz Oluwatoyin Ogun said this during the graduation ceremony organized for 2023 batch of the National Industrial Skills Development Programmes (NISDP).

The event, being one of the first official functions of the DG since assumption of office was held in the Awka Area office of ITF. It featured the graduation of 150 students trained in various skills and presentation of start up packs to them.

Represented by the Deputy Director in charge of Finance, Mrs Felicita Ofodile while commending the graduands, urged them to utilize the opportunity provided by the training to make a decent living for themselves as well as their families, warning them of the consequences of selling the start up packs given to them.

The DG who thanked the Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo for providing an enabling environment for ITF to thrive in the state, noted that NISDP aimed at provision of skills that will create jobs to curb the rampant unemployment situation in the country and breed a new generation of entrepreneurs.

He also said that in few weeks, the Fund will unveil comprehensive policy thrust of its future.

In an interview, Mrs Ofodile noted that acquisition of skills builds the nation’s economy.

Responding on why some youths hate learning skills and other trades, she emphasised that every training starts from home, blaming some parents who are too busy to look after their children, noting that skill acquisition helps to reduce the rate of crime among youths.

In her address of welcome, the Awka Area Manager, ITF, Nancy Ekong, described the NISDP as an integral part of ITF expanded mandate and a policy directive from the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMIT), designed to respond to skills shortages identified through an intensive research conducted by (ITF-UNIDO, 2012).

According to her, the thrust of the programme is to shore up the skills shortages by building capacity of the youths and ensure that they are employable by others or self-employed.

“Since inception of NISDP in 2012, 3,700 youths of the state have been trained in the following trade areas: In 2012-2013 – Welding, Fabrication and Tiling. In 2014-2015 – Computer Hardware, Cosmetology, Pastry, and Phone repairs. In 2016, Cosmetology, Pastry, Yam/Cassava Processing and Fishery.

“Also in 2017 — Tiling, POP, Carpentry, Domestic Electrical Installation and Block/Bricks making. In 2017 (WOSEP) –Poultry, Food Processing and Pastry. In 2018 – Catering and Event Management, Aluminum Fabrication and Installation and other trades.

“Today, we are witnessing the closing ceremony of yet another 150 trainees in Anambra State. Three trade areas were identified in collaboration with the state government and other stakeholders. The Trade Areas were: Hairdressing/Beauty Care, Tailoring, Solar Panel Installation. We had four competent trainers, who were stationed in the various centres for a period of the three months who were frequently monitored by both officers from the Area Office and the headquarters to ensure compliance to standard.

“Expectedly majority of the graduands of this programme will start-up their own businesses while others will be employed in various sectors of the economy, thus readily becoming potential members of various Business Member Organizations (BMOs).”

According to her, as partners in the implementation of the NISDP, the Bank of Industry (BOI) is to help provide the NISDP graduands access to “Start-Up” loans.

“Worthy of note is the huge support and collaboration given us by the state government for the actualization of this programme.”

While commending the graduands, Mrs Ekong explained that the prospect of NISDP is to provide opportunities for members of the Organized Private Sector (OPS) who complain of lack of skilled workforce, to draw from the pool of skilled technical middle level manpower that will be generated.

Some of the graduands, Chiamaka Ndubuisi trained on wig making, Chukwuemeka Ndigwe, Solar Installation and Stella — tailoring expressed gratitude to ITF for the opportunity to be trained in their various skills and promised to make proper use of the knowledge they got as well as contribute to the growth and development of the nation.

*Uche is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ENUGU STATE UNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE AGENCY TEAM UNDERSTUDIES ANAMBRA STATE HEALTH INSURANCE AGENCY (ASHIA)

By Chisom Okafor :

The Enugu State Agency for Universal Health Coverage team, understudies the State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) in a bid to improve the operations of their Health Insurance Scheme.

The Delegates from Enugu State Agency for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) paid a visit to ASHIA office in Awka to understudy the operations of the Scheme with a specific focus on the Claims management system for the Basic Healthcare provision fund (BHCPF) program and other programmes of ASHIA.

The Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi while receiving the two-man delegation assured that they will be adequately equipped with knowledge of Health Insurance practice, Claims management as well as the background of Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).

He gave them the general overview of Health insurance as it is practiced globally, then narrowed it down to the national and state health insurance schemes operations in Nigeria.

The MD, who spoke on the background of the BHCPF said that National Health Act 2014 in section 11 provides for a minimum of 1% of consolidated revenue of the Federal Government to be set aside to provide basic minimum package of health services to all Nigerians.

He further explained that the bodies charged with the mandate to implement this federal government policy include the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) through their subnational equivalence.

Dr. Onyemaechi noted that Claims Management begins from when the enrollee is still at the hospital, adding that every Claim starts with pre authorization code request that is sent when the request is approved and service rendered then Claims for payment are sent to the Agency at the end of every month.

He assured the visitors that the ASHIA team would provide them with all the knowledge they require.

“We just don’t teach theory , my team will show you the practical aspects, you will also visit some of our healthcare providers to get on-site hands-on experience.

He encouraged them to have an open mind and feel free to ask all the questions they had regarding Health Insurance and BHCPF programmes.

The Leader of the team, Dr. Marcus Agu, on behalf of the Enugu State Commissioner for Health, extended his appreciation to the MD for the opportunity to meet with him personally, and assured him of their willingness to learn from him.

Present at the meeting includes Dr. Mary Chukwuma, a member of the Enugu State delegates and ASHIA Heads of Departments.

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

FGN/IFAD-VCDP DISTRIBUTES POS MACHINES TO PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PERSONS IN OGBARU LGA

By Henry Anagboso :

The Chairman Ogbaru Local Government Area, Mr. Pascal Aniegbuna has called on the people of Ogbaru to make judicious use of government intervention and supports through Agricultural Programmes like the Value Chain Development Programme, VCDP, to better their lives.

The Chairman made this call during the handing over of Point of Sale, POS, machines to the physically challenged persons today at the Local Government Secretary’s office, Atani.

The chairman in his speech enjoined them to accept the support with warm embrace as it is geared to make them become financially independent, he added that such gesture scarcely come and when it does, it is advised that one makes judicious use of such opportunity.

Mr. Aniegbuna commended the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, Programme, VCDP for their support while urging the beneficiaries to utilize the opportunity to encourage the donor to reach out to more vulnerable people in their community.

Earlier, the VCDP Rural Finance officer, Mr. Chukwujekwu Obianefo explained that the POS terminal was considered a vital tool for empowerment to support the vulnerable across the participating LGAs of the Programme, using the new LGAs of Ogbaru, Ihiala and Orumba South as pilot area which would be extended to other LGAs in due time.

Mr. Obianefo said the support was part of the VCDP mainstreaming initiative of financial inclusion and considering the Programme’s concern for the vulnerable and people living with disabilities, to help them come out of poverty.

In a vote of thanks, Mrs. Amaka Onyema, a primary healthcare worker and one of the physically challenged persons from Amaiyi community, applauded the IFAD-VCDP for the kind gesture and promised they would put it to use and achieve the objective of the support.

Mrs. Nkiru Okonkwo, a widow from great Umunankwo Cooperative Society and Mr. Ozoemena Okori from Destiny farmers, Umuezehobi expressed their gratitude over the support and pledged to make good use of the device, adding that the support would really impact their lives.

“I want to thank the VCDP for this support of POS machine given to me, I am grateful. I want to also thank the state government, as well as the Federal Government and I pray that God will bless them all.”

*Anagboso writes for the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*

DIGITAL LANDSCAPE HARMONIZATION: ANAMBRA’S ISPs, HEIS INVITED TO AFRINIC ONE-DAY TRAINING

By Angela Nwanodu :

Recently, the Anambra State ICT Agency, in a strategic collaboration with the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), successfully organized a one-day interactive session that brought together Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), to discuss the imperativeness for interconnectivity and to lay the foundation for establishing an Internet Exchange Point in the State.

The collaborative session saw vibrant discussions and resolutions aimed at creating a more livable state and a robust economy through increased internet access and connectivity.

In furtherance of the milestone recorded with the interactive session, and in recognition of the pivotal role of ISPs and HEIs in expediting actions toward this interconnectivity, a one-day AFRINIC virtual training program has been scheduled to take place on December 5 by 12.00pm.

The follow-up virtual training will not only provide participants with invaluable insights, technical expertise, and practical knowledge to optimize their network infrastructures but will further yield answers to key questions posed by ISPs and HEIs.

AFRINIC, the Regional Internet Registry for Africa, is renowned for its commitment to advancing internet development across the continent. The AFRINIC virtual training therefore, represents a significant stride toward realizing the goals outlined during the interactive session.

This initiative aligns perfectly with the vision of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, of building a technologically advanced state, while the collaborative efforts of the Anambra State ICT Agency and the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) underscores practical commitment to positioning Anambra as a digital hub, driving innovation, economic growth, and improved quality of life for its residents.

Participants can expect an interactive and immersive learning experience, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate the dynamic landscape of internet services in the State.

For all participation and registration inquiries, please contact:

Tochukwu: 07065453352

Harrison: 08142814404

#Solutionishere.

Angela N.Nwanodu

PRO, Anambra State ICT Agency

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mobilePhone

+234 803 719 5787

emailAddress

angela.nwanodu@demo.anambrastate.gov.ng

website

ict.anambrastate.gov.ng

address

Anambra State ICT Agency Building.

Government House, Agu-Awka

Awka South LGA

Anambra State, Nigeria

*Angela is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ATTENTION ANAMBRA STATE CIVIL SERVANTS!

Are you currently using the approved official email address, such as ada.obi@demo.anambrastate.gov.ng?

If not, don’t miss out on the benefits!

But, why switch to the official email when you already have a generic one like Yahoo or Gmail?

Here are some compelling reasons:

In February 2022, the Federal Government approved the use of a National Policy on Nigerian Government 2nd Level Domains, to replace generic email addresses with the .ng domain, to enhance efficiency in public administration, civil service responsiveness and transparency in governance, as well as reduce dependence on foreign domain platforms, ensuring data protection, and safeguarding critical infrastructure.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the entire State Executive Council have already adopted this transition, and the Anambra State ICT Agency, led by Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, is actively collaborating with state MDAs to ensure full compliance and the discontinuation of generic emails for official correspondences.

Obtain your official email today by visiting the Anambra State ICT Agency at the Government House, Awka, or send an email to ict@demo.anambrastate.gov.ng.

ANAMBRA BUDGET DEFENCE: ANAMBRA COMMISSIONER FOR WORKS OUTLINES PLANS FOR 2024

By Chizoba Okeke :

The Anambra Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ifeanyi Okoma says next year (2024) will be full time uninterrupted, speedy construction.

Engr. Okoma while speaking during the 2024 budget draft estimate defense, bilateral discussion said that the present administration led by Gov. Chukwuma Soludo had awarded close to 400km of road and have paid about 34 billion (42 percent).

The commissioner spoke on road interventions currently on-going, saying that Onitsha will be revived, maintaining that payments depends on progress of work and that next year, urban regeneration will be focused more.

“Our vision is focused on the mantra, which is building a liveable and prosperous homeland. So far, it’s a work in progress and we are prioritising because of funding.

On the Chinue Achebe Airport, the commissioner said works such as the lights are being fixed and plans are being made to add more air condition as well as fire fighting equipment.

“We are in talks with the aviation authorities because we have the catalog of the things we want to achieve.

“Were Anambra is going, the vision is so clear and we need to start laying the foundation,” Okoma said.

Speaking in an interview with state house officer after the defense, Engr. Okoma maintained that next year will be very active and that there will be a lot of road infrastructure, including a five star hotel in Awka.

“We have itimized and prioritized the works on the Anambra Airport. We are going to perfect the drainages and channelization.”

Office of the secretary to the Anambra State Government, headed by Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Anambra State Auditor General and Local Government Auditor General also appeared before the committees.

The Chairman House Committee on Finance and Appropration, Mr. Ejike Okechukwu and Mr. Emma Nwafor, House Committee Chairman on Works, urged the ministries who appeared before them to do their best in making sure that Gov. Soludo achieved his ambition in Anambra.

*Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY PARTNERS YOUTHS IN AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

By Ifeoma Aniagbado :

The Anambra State Ministry of Youth Development would partner with the Ministry of Agriculture in the second phase of the 1 Youth 2 Skills Program.

The commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba, visited the Ministry of Agriculture to discuss the modalities for incorporating Agricultural training into the 1Youth 2 Skills Program.

The Commissioner who was accompanied by some of his team said that the statistics of youth in the state is 65 percent, pointing out the need to involve them in agricultural development.

He emphasized the importance of involving the youths who are residing in rural areas in the state youth empowerment program, especially in agricultural fields.

The Commissioner further explained that partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture would boost Agricultural development and close the existing gaps in the youth empowerment program.

Responding, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Forster Ihejiofor welcomed the team and promised to partner with the Ministry of Youth Development in order to achieve state government agenda of food security for Ndi Anambra.

He pointed out that the ministry has several areas that will benefit the Youths who reside both in rural and urban areas, adding that his ministry would provide agricultural programs that are sustainable and profitable.

The commissioner who noted that agriculture is the bedrock of livelihood said that one can engage in amplified production within a small space as well as vertical production to produce large quantities of agricultural products.

*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

IT IS WELL WITH ‘ODERA’: A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE DR. CHINWOKE MBADINUJU

*NEWS COMMENTARY:*

By Christian ABURIME :

Today, the Government and people of Anambra State begin the process of bidding a final farewell to a great son of Anambra State.

This is also a tribute to celebrate his life and achievements as a former Governor who left an indelible mark on the history of our beloved state.

This is in memory of no other than the Late Dr. Chinwoke Clement Mbadinuju, fondly known as Odera.

Dr. Mbadinuju was a man of many facets – an academic, a journalist, a politician, and above all, a compassionate leader.

Born in the serene town of Uli, Ihiala Local Government area of Anambra State in 1945, Odera’s life was one of profound destiny, marked by his uncommon belief in education and service to humanity.

He embarked on his educational journey at Mgbidi Primary School, where his brilliance and academic prowess shone through. His parents, recognizing his potential, encouraged him to pursue a career in teaching, sending him to Bishop Lasbrey College in Irete, Owerri.

Upon completing his studies, he returned to his alma mater as a teacher, inspiring countless young minds.

Odera’s thirst for knowledge led him to the United States, where he initially pursued a degree in Music at the State University of New York. However, his true calling lay in the realm of government and politics, and he subsequently switched his studies to Ohio University, where he earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Government and International Law.

His academic achievements opened doors to various teaching positions at esteemed institutions like State University of New York, Ohio State University, and Cornell University. But it was his love for his homeland that drew him back to Nigeria, where he embarked on a distinguished career in journalism.

Odera’s journalistic journey began as a correspondent for Times International, where his sharp intellect and incisive writing earned him recognition. He rose through the ranks, becoming the Editor of Times International and later the General Manager and Chief Executive of Daily Star, the then Enugu State government’s daily publication.

His foray into politics began with an appointment as Special Assistant (Political) to the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under President Shehu Shagari. After the 1983 coup, Odera returned to his legal practice in Onitsha, all the while dedicating himself to his Christian faith and community service.

In 1998, Odera’s political aspirations led him to join the Peoples Democratic Party, where he emerged as the party’s governorship candidate in Anambra State.

His campaign focused on restoring stability and prosperity to Anambra State, a state grappling with numerous challenges at the time.

In 1999, Odera assumed office as the Governor of Anambra State, marking a pivotal moment in his life and the history of the state. Despite the daunting challenges he faced, Odera remained steadfast in his commitment to serving his people.

With his characteristic intelligence, equanimity in the face of extreme provocations, and Christian faith in God, Odera embarked on a mission to transform Anambra State.

Among his several achievements, he established the Anambra Vigilante Services, Dora Akunyili Centre, the Alex Ekwueme Square, the New House of Assembly, and the Odumegwu Ojukwu University.

He also implemented a scholarship scheme for secondary schools, constructed over 140 kilometers of roads, provided boreholes in secondary schools, and established the Orient Oil Ltd.

Odera’s legacy extends beyond his tangible achievements. He was a man of integrity, humility, and compassion, always putting the needs of his people first. He instilled hope and a sense of unity in a state yearning for stability.

Although Odera’s tenure as Governor came to an end without a secure term, his contributions to Anambra State remained profound. He continued to serve his country, joining the All Progressives Congress and serving on its Board of Trustees until his passing away in April 2023 at the National Hospital, Abuja.

A devoted family man, Odera was survived by his wife, Mrs. Nnene Mbadinuju, and five children. Today, as we bid farewell to Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, we remember not just a politician, but a leader who embodied the true spirit of service. He was a beacon of hope, a man of unwavering principles, and a true patriot.

No doubt, Odera’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of the good people of Anambra State. His steadfast commitment to our people, his intelligence, and his unwavering faith will continue to inspire generations to come.

As he would usually say, it shall be well with Anambra State.

May his soul find eternal rest in the bosom of the Lord.

S.E. ANCOPSS EULOGIZES GOV. SOLUDO’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUATION

The South East Zone of the All Nigerian Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools ANCOPSS, has praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the giant strides recorded by his administration in the education sector.

Speaking at the 2023 South East Mandatory Professional Training program holding at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Center Awka, the South East President of ANCOPSS, Sir Mathew Ikechukwu Uzuegbu stated that Anambra State has always played a leading role in Education. He implored other Governors of the South East zone to prioritize infrastructure and human development in public schools.

Declaring open the 2023 South East ANCOPSS mandatory professional training, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh stated that Governor Soludo’s passion for education has remained unparalleled. This was demonstrated immediately on his assumption of office by the employment of five thousand teachers, while activities have commenced for employment of additional three thousand teachers.

Commissioner Chuma-Udeh who was represented by the Director of Schools, Mrs Ifeoma Agbaizu, further stated that Principals occupy highly placed position in Governor Soludo’s education agenda, as their roles in actualizing the education agenda of the State cannot be underestimated.

While assuring the South East Principals of enjoyable stay in Anambra State, the Education Commissioner charged them to maximize the benefits of the program for the progress of education.

Earlier, the Anambra State President of ANCOPSS, Mr Jovita Arazu had listed the achievements of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in his drive to make education an equalizer.

Nnaemeka Egwuonwu Public Relations Officer Anambra State Ministry of Education

ANAMBRA POLICE SMASH DEATH THREAT SYNDICATES, ARREST SUSPECTS

Police in Ozubulu and Umunze towns in Anambra State have smashed two deadly syndicates extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public via deadly threats.

At Umunze, Orumba South LGA Headquarters two suspects were nabbed after painstaking investigation.

The suspects had sent text messages to their victim identifying themselves as members of ESN and demanding that he paid them a huge sum or else he and his daughter would be kidnapped and killed.

Both suspects are now cooling their feet in detention and would be arraigned in court soon.

In a similar development the Police at Ozubulu, Headquarters of Ekwusigo LGA arrested one male suspect who used two different lines to issue deadly threats to a businessman. He claimed to be an ESN Commander and ordered his victim to pay up or be killed.

Meticulous investigation employing technology and human assets led detectives to his hideout where he was arrested and both sims recovered. He was taken into custody and is to be arraigned in court.

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Police Command, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has commended both DPOs for their diligence and painstaking effort which led to unravelling the identities of the crime suspects and apprehending them.

He assured that Command Headquarters will continue to motivate its personnel across the State for optimum performance.

*DSP Tochukwu Ikenga*

Police Public Relations Officer,

Anambra State Police Command,

Awka.

15th November, 2023.