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ANAMBRA FLAGS-OFF SECOND ROUND 2024 oMNCHW 

By Nnedinma Okeke : 

The Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners, with support from Hon. Pascal Agbodike Foundation, has flagged-off optimized Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week (oMNCHW) in the state. 

The oMNCHW: a week long activity with life saving interventions was flagged-off at Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State. 

The Commissioner, SMOH, Dr Afam Obidike represented by Director Disease Control and Immunization, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi noted that the oMNCHW initiative is a cornerstone of the State’s commitment to improving health and well-being of mothers, newborns, and children across the State. 

“Maternal and child health is a key priority for the Government of Anambra State as we recognise that the health of mothers and children form the backbone of a thriving society,” he said.

He explained that the week-long event underscores the State resolve to reduce maternal and child morbidity and mortality by delivering high impact, evidence-based interventions to our communities. 

The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem said that the oMNCHW objectives were designed to provide free and equitable access to essential healthcare services for pregnant women, newborns, and children under five years of age.

Also, to administer life-saving interventions such as: Vitamin A supplementation, Deworming, Immunization, and Malnutrition screening, to educate mothers/caregivers on appropriate infant and young child feeding practices, family planning and hygiene. 

Furthermore, to strengthen primary healthcare systems by promoting community participation and engagement. 

The ES, represented by Dr Uliagbafusi, urged that all must work together as Government officials, Healthcare providers, Development partners and Community leaders to ensure that the oMNCHW services reach every ward, village, and household in Anambra State. 

The UNICEF Team Lead, Mr Gift Oguzor expressed gratitude to the State Government, State health team, and the programme Sponsor for organising the flag-off ceremony which was geared toward creating awareness and sensitising people on the oMNCHW. 

While urging all who attended the event to aid spread the news for everyone to be informed, the UNICEF team lead urged pregnant women and parents/caregivers with children under five years of age to visit the health facility nearest to them in order to access the interventions. 

The Member representing Ihiala Federal Constituency, Hon. Pascal Agbodike who sponsored the program, represented by Mr Azuka Okoli urged mothers/caregivers in Ihiala LGA, Anambra South Senatorial Zone, and Ndi Anambra at large to ensure they utilise opportunities of the life saving interventions which the oMNCHW gives. 

The State Nutrition Officer (SNO), ASPHCDA, Mrs Chikanso Obiechefu and immediate past SNO, Mrs Eriken Uzoamaka gave health talks at the event while educating and sensitising mothers on exclusive breastfeeding and complementary feeding. 

The oMNCHW commenced in State from December 11 to 15, 2024. 

*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX, ANAMBRA INFORMATION COMMISSIONER TO INFORMATION OFFICERS

By Chinemelu Okafor :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has urged the information officers to think outside the box, advising the officers to make their reports community based, especially those in various local government areas, where government activities happen on daily basis.

The Commissioner gave the urge during an interactive session in his office at Jerome Udoji Secretariat with the Acting Director of the Ministry, Mr. Emma Ikegwuani.

Speaking, he said that Gov. Soludo is very serious and more concerned about Information Ministry and their News reportage in the State.

According to him, the Governor has not seen much commitment from the information officers and their reportage on government’s activities in the State.

This he said citing information officers posted to various local government areas, that were not up and doing in discharging their duties, emphasizing that information department is the base and heart of any Government, from Federal level down to the grassroots.

“You need to think outside the box, thereby designing nice programmes, that will have wide coverage, as well as attracting sponsorship. Try to incorporate the town criers, ward Chairmen, PGs, traditional rulers, among others.

“These are the people that have information at their beck and call, that can easily reach the people at the grassroots and the public.”

He also urged them to be very active in online reporting and spreading of government activities to the public, because the governor focuses more on online News, which is the trending thing.

Dr. Mefor, did not hesitate to remind them that they can achieve this, through Governor’s official handles, many platforms, government sites, Facebook feeds, organizations sites, among others.

“With this, the Governor can go any length in spending heavily on Information Ministry, because he sees the magnitude of their works.”

He promised to work tirelessly, to making sure that the Information Ministry and officers are well equipped for effective gathering and dissemination of information.

*Chinemelu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT 

The Nigeria Army hereby inform the general public, particularly Ndi Anambra only who applied for the 88 Regular Recruitment Intake exercise  into the Nigeria Army to report at 302 Artellery Regiment Onitsha before 19th of December, 2024. Both those shortlisted and not shortlisted are to report immediately as the recruitment is still on-going. 

For further information please call ‪ 0803 452 2655 . 

Dr Law Mefor 

Commissioner for Information 

Announcer

ESCHEW PRODIGALITY TO RUN AWAY FROM HAVING PRODIGAL CHILDREN, SAYS CLERIC

By David Okpala/Stella Okpala :

The Bishop, Diocese of Aguata, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Rt Revd Samuel Ezeofor has enjoined fathers to work with wives to bringing up children they can proudly call their own.

He said this while admonishing men who stood behind their wives to be ushered into Women Guild of the Church, at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Akpo, on December 9.

The cleric said, “By sacrament of baptism, man is admitted into the household of God and saddled with responsibility of preaching and living life of love to humanity and God.

“Against this backdrop, it is agreeable  that you as men are immediate pastors of your families. Therefore, if prodigal children are produced, the implication is that you did not pastor well.”

He cited example of Eli in the Bible, who was lenient from stopping the children from toeing the Lord path, but paid dearly for it.

“The story of prodigal son in the Bible did not record where his father resisted sharing what he has to giving him his own share.

“There were no questions about where he was going and what he was going to do with these resources there. Good a thing, he came back but paid dearly for his action. It is common knowledge that once there is a prodigal son, there must have been a prodigal father.

Bishop Ezeofor added that families are small units of the Church cum society.

“If we do not get it right in our families, we have ourselves to blame. Those of us deriving joy from wealth of our children at tender age without proper known source of income are not helping matters.”

He pleaded with fathers to spend time with children at home, to understanding their behaviours as to know when there are changes, to making amends on time.

The Church Service was to induce young Christians with the power of the Holy Spirit to become true ambassadors of Jesus Christ. It featured administering sacrament of confirmation to over 50 young Christians from Amaiyi Archdeaconry.

17 Girls were admitted into Girls Guild while 10 women were admitted into women folk of the Church.

The service had pastors and wives, of all the Churches in Amaiyi Archdeaconry in attendance.

The young confirmed Christians interviewed include Lydia Chukwu, Adaeze Okolie and Wisdom Ezeonyeji.

Those admitted into Girls Guild and women folk include Ijeoma Okpalaunegbu, Chikodili Ogbuaja, Chioma Ifedigbo, Mrs Helen Eze and Mrs Ozioma Onyebueke.

These persons spoke separately, yet agreed in expressing joy attaining new status in the Church. They promised going to serve humanity and God to achieving better society.

*David and Stella are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.

COMMISSIONER URGES UNITY AMONG WOMEN TO END GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN ANAMBRA

By Ukpa Ewa :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, has called for unity among women in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in the state. 

Speaking during a press briefing organized by the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) at her office in Awka as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, she outlined the ministry’s ongoing efforts to combat the scourge.

Mrs. Obinabo emphasized that her ministry has initiated numerous programs, including conferences, press briefings, market sensitization campaigns and stakeholder engagements in communities to raise awareness about GBV and its devastating effects.

“This year, the women of Anambra State have taken a bold step to create awareness about gender-based violence. Women must stand united, support one another, and refuse to be used as tools to humiliate or intimidate their fellow women,” she emphasized.

Speaking on the theme “Unite to End Gender-Based Violence,” the commissioner highlighted the power of collective action in addressing the issue. She urged mutual respect between mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law, stressing the importance of tolerance and understanding.

“Age affects reasoning; mothers-in-law should be loved and understood. Similarly, daughters-in-law must avoid viewing their mothers-in-law as competitors,” she advised, adding that fostering harmony in families is essential to building a violence-free society.

She further warned perpetrators of violence, explaining that ignorance of the law would not be an excuse. “The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law (VAP) is in full force, and designated courts are ready to handle cases. We will not tolerate the humiliation of widows or the seizure of their property. Offenders will face justice,” she warned.

On his part, the Managing Director, Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) also addressed the gathering, acknowledging that men also suffer from domestic violence but stressed the critical role of women in shaping homes and society. “Women deserve respect and appreciation for their contributions, especially in journalism, women uncover stories men cannot, and they deserve recognition,” he said.

NAWOJ Anambra Chairperson, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejirika, who led a delegation to the State Police Command as part of the activism campaign, emphasized the need for women to recognize early signs of abuse, whether verbal or non-verbal, and to speak out against violence. “Silence has caused too many lives to be lost. Women must seek help and support instead of enduring violence in silence,” she urged.

Similarly, a Senior Lecturer Faculty of Law at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Barr. Helen Obi while addressing female Journalists highlighted the global origin of the 16 Days of Activism, which began in 1991 and stressed the importance of prevention programs, education, and advocacy to combat GBV. “This year’s theme underscores the need for collective action to eliminate gender-based violence,” she noted.

The campaign activities included a road walk through key locations in Awka, such as the Police Command, Ministry of Women Affairs, Aroma Junction, and NUJ Secretariat to raise awareness about GBV. Stakeholders including a gender rights activist, Comrade Ify Unachukwu also called for the establishment of  Violence Against Persons Commission, enhanced media coverage of real life stories and more resources for Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARC).

The call to action from the event was clear: unity, awareness, and decisive action were vital to ending gender-based violence in Anambra State and beyond.

*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

MAYOR SOLICITS PRAYERS TO SUSTAINING SOLUTION THAT HAS COME

By David Okpala/Stella Okpala :

The Chairman, Aguata Local Government Area, Dr Chibueze Ofobuike has called on Ndi Anambra to pray without season for Anambra State Government, to sustaining solution to problems already available.

He said this in a thank you gathering of All Progressive Grand Alliance(APGA) faithful at Aguata Council Field on December 8.

The Chairman said, “Solution has come indeed, all we needed to do is to give support to sustaining it.

“Ekwulobia Roundabout Flyover is at finishing touches. It will not be long driving from Ekwulobia to Awka will be achieved in 15 minutes.

“The problems of Ekwulobia Roundabout traffic congestion has been solved. Road dualization, construction and other infrastructure deficits are being fixed across Anambra State.

“Health system, education system, agriculture, economic system are all smiling, little wonder APGA is swallowing other parties in the state, of course opposition parties have nothing  to campaign with.

“Pregnant woman that went to hospital to deliver, even with cesarean surgery without cost will not vote for other person but the person and party that made it possible. Same applicable to an indigent widow who is no longer bothering about school fees of her children.

According to him, Soludo is indeed solution. Let us work toward supporting his programmes and policies through prayers, obedience and other logistics for better and greater Anambra State.

“We have gathered here to thank ourselves for working together faithfully, which led to our victory at the poles on September 28, 2024.

“It could not have been possible if efforts were not collective. So, thank you as you keep on being faithful to our great party.

“The joy of being a political party member is in winning elections and not betrayal for personal pockets.”

The Special Adviser to Governor on Parks and Markets, Mr Everestus  Ubah said, “APGA is stronger than ever now, which is connected to National Leader, Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s superlative performance in governance.

He applauded recent Supreme Court judgment that affirmed Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, National Chairman APGA.

He described the judgment as victory to democracy, strength to APGA and road to cruise into victory come 2025 Guber Election in Anambra State.

However, he identified the fight as an inn house fight that does not take away anybody’s identity from him or her.

“APGA is a political organization far beyond ordinary political party. It is a movement of brotherhood. We are together (Iwe nwanne adighi eru n’okpukpu).”

The occasion featured turn out of APGA faithful from nooks and crannies of Aguata Local Government Area and Anambra State at large.

*David and Stella are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.

ONITSHA NORTH MAYOR APPLAUDS GOVERNOR SOLUDO FOR STRATEGIC ROAD PROJECTS 

By Chioma Nwankwo/Claribel Udah/Chika Obi  :

The Mayor of Onitsha North LGA, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, has commended Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for awarding key road construction projects in Onitsha North. 

Among the notable projects are the Trans-Nkisi Boulevard 1 road in GRA, seven major roads in the Omagba Community, and the reconstruction of the New Market Road, all with specific timelines for completion.  

Speaking on the development, Mayor Nwora described Gov. Soludo’s administration as a transformative force for Anambra State, praising its commitment to infrastructure development and improved living conditions for residents.  

“The ongoing road projects are critical for the residents of Onitsha North and will significantly contribute to the economic growth of the state upon completion,” Nwora noted.  

The mayor reaffirmed his support for the governor’s vision of creating a livable, clean, and prosperous Anambra. 

He also pledged the unwavering backing of Onitsha North’s electorate for Gov. Soludo’s administration ahead of the 2025 elections.  

Mayor Nwora urged residents to cooperate with contractors to ensure the successful and timely delivery of the projects, which he believed will enhance connectivity and boost local development. 

*The officers of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

STATE GOVERNMENT COMMENDS TRADERS AS 2024 ANAMBRA TRADERS SPORTS COMPETITION ENDS  

By Juliana Nwachukwu  :

 Anambra State Government has expressed satisfaction with the successful conclusion of the 2024 Traders Sports Competition, applauding its organization and goal of uniting traders. 

Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, commended the competition’s progression from preliminary to final stages, culminating in the final soccer tournament between Bridgehead market and Oraeri FC at the City Sports Stadium, Awka.

Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi extolled the competitive final match between Bridgehead and Oraeri FC, emphasizing that unity is key. He highlighted Governor Soludo’s achievements in security, road networks, human capital development, and governance. Ezeajughi also commended the state’s recreational facilities, urging Ndi Anambra to support the governor’s agenda of unity and progress.

The ASMATA PG, Chief Humphrey Anuna, while expressing satisfaction with the successful end of the tournament, urged the traders to continue to support the governor for his infrastructural development of the state.

The Chairman of Iron Rod Dealers Atani, Ogbaru Local Government, Mr Evaristus Ejezie, commended Governor Soludo for bringing the traders together through the sports competition and commended the Special Adviser on Trade and Market, Chief Evaristus Uba and ASMATA PG, Chief Humphrey Anuna for their efforts towards the good of the traders in the State.

The Chairman of New Auto Spare Parts market, Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area, Chief Obiora Stephen Oforle appreciated the governor for being the best so far, stating that there is a lot of improvement on the side of the Sports commission based on the  arrangements, prices which were doubled.

Mr Onyedika Chjioke , Staff of Anambra State Sports Development Commission, who is also the Chairman of the Security, Venue, Facility Sub Committee thanked the governor for bringing out this wonderful initiative, integrating traders and telling them that it is not only “Izu Ahia, that all work and no play make Jack a dull boy”

Highlight of the occasion was presentation of prizes to winners of both the indoor and outdoor games and Bridge head market lifted the soccer trophy having defeated Oraeri Football club 4-0,  Oraeri took 2nd position while Ogbunike Building Materials market won 3rd position.

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

COMMISSIONER FOR INFORMATION VISITS 1YOUTH 2 SKILLS TV STUDIO

By Ifeoma Aniagbado :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has visited 1 Youth 2 Skills TV media facility established for dissemination of information about Mr. Governor’s youth program in the state.

Dr. Mefor on arrival at the Ministry of Youth Development Complex, said that he was appointed the commissioner for Information, three months ago, adding that the first thing he did was to visit the media establishment in the state.

He emphasized the need to change the narrative of reportage in the state, saying that it is easy to market a good product as Mr. Governor has done so well without borrowing money in the last 32 months.

He further said that since his appointment in his office, he has introduced a number of programs targeting effective external and internal communication, adding that he introduced a program ‘Ask the commissioner on Thursdays every week as well as Take the Heads of the Department’ to radio station to discuss the essence and achievements of the state government in the state.

He pointed out that the solution weekly bulletin which is between 12 to 15 pages that comes out every Fridays was also introduced and sent out through Twitter, WhatsApp, Facebook and other social media handles.

The Information commissioner explained that it is necessary to get feedback from the audience to know what they want, expressing the need to modernize town caries which he called Community based communication.

Dr. Mefor said that he promotes 1 Youth 2 Skills program to the public in over 100 interviews he granted, that he always put it as one of the top six achievements of Mr. Governor’ administration, adding that 50 percent of Ndi Anambra are not tv cultured but radio listeners which will go a long way, reaching the people in the rural areas instead of newspapers, social media and tv.

He advised the youth of the state to participate in the ongoing 1 Youth 2 Skills Solution program to help in reducing crime and youth restiveness in the state, calling them to take ownership of their state in order to have good security services to avoid killing and kidnapping in the state.

*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

YULETIDE: IDEMILI NORTH CHAIRMAN BEAUTIFIES NKPOR ROUNDABOUT, EXPRESS FLYOVER

By Uzo Ugwunze :

The Executive Chairman, Idemili North Local Government Area (INLGA), Chief Stanley Nkwoka has embarked on beautification projects at the Enugu/Onitsha Expressway- Flyover Nkpor and Nkpor Junction roundabout in preparation of the yuletide season.

 The project began with environmental sanitation, excavation of loose sands, and will be followed by painting the flyover’s brick railings. During his inspection, Nkwoka urged the environment committee to engage more labourers and a tipper driver to speed up the process.

He also addressed market leaders at the Oduigbo section of Nkpor Main Market, warning against indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drainages. To tackle this issue, he set up a taskforce team to monitor and arrest offenders, ensuring the market area remains clean and free of traffic congestion.

Nkwoka urged shopping plaza leaders around the flyover to clear drainages by Thursday to avoid penalties. He also directed the INLGA Supervisory Councillor Works to rehabilitate the Nkpor Junction roundabout’s dilapidated concrete pavements. 

He expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, stating that the project’s progress demonstrates the governor’s commitment to grassroots governance.

To ease traffic congestion, Nkwoka instructed food traders near the Nkpor Main Market to relocate to the Oduigbo section, stressing that night traders at Nkpor Junction will also be relocated to a prepared section of the Nkpor Main park, equipped with search lights for security and night market activities.

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

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