As a testament to collective efforts and commitment to improving healthcare in its community and Anambra State at large, the Anaku Working Council in Ayamelum Local Government Area has handed over its community built healthcare centre to the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA).
The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem during the handover ceremony, thanked the Anaku Community for their “Aku-Luo Uno” project and community participation in ensuring the good health and well-being of its people.
The President General, Anaku Community, Mr Friday Paul Nwuba in his remarks thanked the State Government for providing the community a Doctor and Midwife to serve their health centre and ensure health condition of its citizens were optimized.
He noted that the state government’s support has been invaluable and reaffirmed the Anaku Community’s commitment to supporting vital projects that benefits its community.
The event had in attendance: the PHC Director, Ayamelum LGHA Mrs Adaeze Alokwu, Doctors, Nurses, Midwives and other staff of the Ayamelum Local Government Health Authority as well as members of the Anaku Community.
Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has launched the second batch of the “One Youth, Two Skills” Solution. Governor Soludo launched the initiative at the International Convention Centre, Awka. Speaking at the event which witnessed about 8,620 participants that qualified for the second batch of the programme, Governor Soludo described the children and the youth as the bridge to the future saying that is why his administration prioritizes human capital development. “Today, we are beginning the phase two of that big journey to ensure that our youths are empowered on a sustainable basis, to teach them how to fish and eliminate hunger. “Phase one of the programme had 5000 youths, trained on a peculiar way of igba boi, mentorship, etc. “Most of them have been empowered, and several of them now employers of labour. “In this second batch, 183,000 applications were received, and over 8000 people were selected because of available limited spaces. “As we launch this particular phase, ndị Anambra youths, I thank you for being responsible citizens. Thank you for deciding not to protest, not because you don’t feel the pain of the moment but because of our age long value system. “Ndị Anambra celebrate nothing but hard work. I thank our youths for deciding to take their destinies in their hands. “It is good to protest, but even better to do something. For decades, we’ve been singing songs of lamentations, but now, we are doing something to ensure that our youths are useful to the society, “he stated. The governor stressed that the goal of his government is to transform Anambra to become the largest skill hub to give the youths employable and exportable skills. “This is a unique training programme. Many of the artisans’ works and skills are now in short supply. “As I look in your faces today, I can see the future millionaires and the youths that can take Anambra and Nigeria to the world,” the governor stressed. He pointed out that there are five systematic pillars for the programme such as Apprenticeship scheme, Entrepreneurial skills training, Formation of cooperatives, Business financing scheme and Mentorship scheme, noting that two billion naira grant was disbursed to those who qualified in the last batch, adding that another 2.5 billion naira start-up capital was also set aside for beneficiaries that are willing to access it through the Anambra Small Business Agency. “This is becoming an organic movement. We are expecting that in every kindred, there should be one person benefitting from the scheme, so that it permeates the whole Anambra. “We are recommending this Anambra model to the world. We are upgrading digitizing the system to ensure that former applicants do not apply and participate. “The number that applied shows that Anambra youths are hungry to take their destinies in their hands. We will continue to provide the enabling environment. I implore you to take it very seriously. “This is not a programme for government to dish out free money, but for those who are ready to make decent living. It will benefit only qualified trainees. Make the most of it. “
The governor continued that Community Development has helped Anambra to scale up very quickly, saying that ndị Anambra believes in collaborative development as well as “leave no one behind” mantra. Said the Governor, “I encourage friends of Anambra to join us. Public-Private-Community-Partnership, PPCP is the fastest way to scale up the development of Anambra. “We are determined to give good value, but we need partners. To developmental partners who have funds, this is an opportunity. “ The Governor also called on the youths to take advantage of the initiative so that they could become a solution to themselves and the society. The Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba eulogized Governor Soludo for being supportive of the initiative, which is a model worthy of emulation. “This is a historic event. 8620 youths qualified in various skills cut across the local government areas of the state. Mr. Governor, you have developed a model worthy of emulation that will live beyond you- emphasis on “quality.” “You are determined to give the youths the best and nothing but the best. You believe in the youths, and you are changing the narrative, with a target of raising 1000 youth millionaires annually. “We appreciate your interest in quality assurance. The ministry is determined to ensure that your model becomes the benchmark. “ The Commissioner assured that the learning curves encountered during the first phase will be further utilized to improve and modify the second phase, expressing optimism that it will be upscaled to 95 per cent in terms of achievement He commended the beneficiaries for going through the rigorous processes. The wife of the Governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo, and the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim accompanied the governor to the event, which was also attended by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Barr. Joachin Anaeto, State Chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obiokoye, Traditional Rulers, Transition Committee Chairmen, and members of Anambra State Excutive Council, among others.
The Chairman of Anaocha LGA, Comr. Rome Ibekwe, has taken a significant step towards maintaining a clean and healthy environment in Anaocha LGA. Recently, he led a team of Waste Management to clear a massive refuse dump at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, Adazi-nnukwu, a move that has been widely commended by the community.
This effort demonstrates the Chairman’s commitment to ensuring that Anaocha LGA is free from arbitrary and hazardous waste littered anywhere in the Council Area. This is geared at promoting a clean and safe environment for residents.
During the clearing exercise, Comr. Ibekwe seized the opportunity to appeal to the people of Anaocha (Ndi Anaocha) to join hands with the government in maintaining a clean environment in Anaocha LGA. He emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring that Anaocha surroundings remain tidy and free from refuse.
This call to action underscores the Chairman’s belief in community-driven initiatives and the need for everyone to contribute to the development of Anaocha LGA.
Comr. Ibekwe also took the opportunity to commend the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo CFR for his remarkable efforts in cleaning up the surroundings of Anambra State. The Governor’s initiatives have had a significant impact on the State’s environment, and the Chairman’s acknowledgement of these efforts highlights the importance of collaboration between different levels of government in achieving a common goal.
The clearing of the refuse dump at St. Andrew’s Catholic Adazi-nnukwu is a sign of Comr. Ibekwe’s dedication to improving the lives of the people of Anaocha LGA.
His appeal for community involvement and recognition of Governor Soludo’s efforts demonstrate a comprehensive approach to addressing environmental challenges. As Anaocha LGA continues to strive for a cleaner and healthier environment, the Chairman’s leadership and commitment to public-private partnerships will be crucial in achieving this vision, for a greater Anaocha.
The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has commenced thorough road maintenance on Esther Obiakor Avenue, Awka.
The Governor, through the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) has taken a proactive measure in ensuring that the much dilapidated Esther Obiakor Avenue in Awka wears a new look, befitting road network found within the state capital.
The move was motivated by the governor’s choice in making Awka one of the best state capitals within the country.
While overseeing the level of work ongoing, the Managing Director of ACTDA, Mr. Ossy Onuko, said that his presence was to ensure that the work met the required standards prescribed by Gov. Soludo.
Mr Onuko reiterated the efforts of Gov. Soludo in giving Anambra State the best quality of leadership it deserved in all facets of development across all sectors in the state.
Mr Onuko, however, warned that the state government through his agency will not tolerate any activities targeted at destroying the quality road maintenance in place.
Also speaking to newsmen during the exercise, the Transition Committee Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area, Prince Chinedu Okafor, explained that the ongoing road maintenance was part of Gov. Soludo’s proactive efforts in preventing further dilapidation.
Prince Okafor who praised the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Soludo for his higher quality of infrastructural development across the state, thanked the Managing Director of ACTDA, Mr. Onuko, for his proactive approach, which has significantly contributed to the successes recorded in the state capital.
Okafor while commending ACTDA for its efforts to address the portholes and upgrade the road to ensuring a smoother drive for the road users within Awka metropolis, called on Ndí Anambra to support Gov. Soludo’s administration beyond 2025.
Also speaking, the Deputy Commander of ACTDA Rapid Response, Mr. Henry Uchechukwu Nebolisa, emphasized the need of making the road motorable for the surrounding community.
He noted that good roads network among other infrastructural development gives facelift to state capital, acknowledging the residents’ pleas for road repairs and emphasized government’s intervention through ACTDA.
Mr Nebolisa urged residents to avoid activities that could damage the road, such as spilling engine oil, insists that government property is everybody’s business and should be taken as such.
*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has commissioned several projects built by a United States based Anambra Philanthropist, High Chief Hamilton Ezeonu who came back to invest on infrastructural and human capital development in his community, Nnobi, Idemili South LGA.
Commissioning the projects, Governor Soludo after thanking High Chief Hamilton Ezeonu, called on other illustrious sons and daughters of Anambra to embrace the Public Private Community Partnership (PPCP) to support what government is doing to make the state a healthy, liveable and prosperous place.
“I have come to Nnobi and I feel like lying down here. This is the kind of event I love attending daily. Nnobi is a great community with great people. I usually tell people if you claim you are a big man, I will ask the person how many kilometers of road have you completely constructed.
” Government IGR cannot do much that is why we decided on PPCP to support government. 12 years ago I adopted a public primary school. I did the perimeter fence, provided 40 computer sets for the computer lab, provided school uniforms, bags, books and pencils, augmented the incentives for teachers as my contribution to what the previous administration in government was doing in Anambra.
” Maya Angelou told Oprah Winfrey that her legacy was not the record of being the richest black woman but the school she built in South Africa which will eventually produce the future leaders in their community.
” People like late Tonimas who did 18 km roads at Neni will always be remembered, Chinechendo of Adazi have done 14km and targets 30km to break Tonimas record,Ndi Anambra should emulate them and partner with government in developing their communities.
“I remember that it was during the commissioning of the renovated Nnobi General Hospital by the same Ikemba that I declared free antenatal and delivery including those who delivered through CS and we have almost zero mortality for Ndi Anambra.
“So, I thank Ikemba and his wife the Rock and next year June I will be here to help him convince people like SEAMAN and others to take up projects in this great Nnobi community,”said Soludo.
The ISLGA Chairman, Mrs Amaka Obi in her address said that as an ardent believer in the Solution Governor’s think home philosophy, she has been persuading many illustrious sons and daughters of Idemili South to partner with government in developing their immediate community and the LGA.
“When I came into office, I declared that anybody who builds and tars any road or street, that street or road shall be named after the person irrespective of the name it was bearing previously.
“Ikemba Nnobi is not the richest but I pleaded with him and his wife to come home and help me bring development closer to the people.
“He has done a lot in Nnobi community. Projects Ikemba sponsored include, Renovation of General Hospital Nnobi, Renovation of Doctors Quarter at General Hospital Nnobi, Building of modern Security Office at General Hospital Nnobi. Ikemba Nnobi built a Security Tower at Nnobi Police Station. Ikemba Nnobi has contributed so much in the security of lives and properties of his people the Ifite Ogbeadiji community Nnobi. He also provided over 500 Motorcycle Riders with safety helmet and Reflective jackets.
“The wife has empowered so many women, empowerment of widows and women with Fufu Processing Machine. Commercial Grinding Machine. Medical outreach, infact they have done me proud and are willing to do more,” said Mrs Obi.
Earlier in his speech, the benefactor, High Chief Ezeonu said that when Soludo was campaigning to become the Governor of Anambra State he said that he would turn the state into Dubai of Africa, saying that it was one of the things that motivated him to support the government by doing the little he can to make Ifite Ogbeagidi, Nnobi have a taste of what one can see in Dubai.
He explained that the last time he met the governor was during the burial of the late wife of Igwe Nick Obi of Nnobi and told him that he is going to come and commission three projects in Nnobi. “He said: make it happen I am always available.I thank you for what you are doing in Anambra and for Nnobi people and community.”
He thanked four key individuals who made the occasion possible: God, Governor Soludo, his wife, and the Transition Chairman of ISLGA, Mrs. Amaka Obi who constantly encouraged him to focus on projects.
“My wife, Thelma Ezeonu, has been the rock behind me, Ikemba Nnobi. Although we are not politicians, we will continue to support the government.
“Iyom Ife-Abata kept telling me ‘ Ikemba you can do it. I believe in you. So in 15 days this road was done with intensive construction work going on morning and night.
“I remember Governor Soludo said Dubai and I have been to Dubai and their roads have Street lights and flowers, so I put Street lights and flowers along the road.
“I also learnt that Governor Soludo likes water, I built water projects here too, so I have given the governor what what he wants.
“I learnt at US to follow government policies and to give your own support. Governor is not God, the little you can do please do it to support the government.
“I also observed that ‘Okada riders’ commercial cyclists were speeding on this road day and night, so I provided close to 500 motorcycle riders with safety helmets and reflective jackets.
“If my government is succeeding, I am also succeeding. This is just 5 percent of projects the Governor will commission here in Nnobi. By June next year I will ensure that all illustrious sons of Nnobi who seldom come home will be here to take up several projects”, said Ezeonu.
* Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
In a significant development under the Public Private Community Partnership (PPCP) Scheme, the IG Aguowu Health and Academic Foundation has handed over a fully renovated Principal House and Corpers’ Lodge valued at N12 million to Anambra State Government.
The once dilapidated structures at Ezike High School, Nibo, have been refurbished with new roofing, tiles, toilet facilities, doors and windows to accommodate the Principal, Vice Principal, and Corps members.
At the commissioning ceremony, the Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, praised the PPCP model for its role in transforming educational facilities and commended High Chief Ignatius Onyeka Aguowu for his philanthropic efforts.
She highlighted the collaborative approach as a key element in the state’s development strategy.
Prof. Nkechi Ikedingwu, Chairman, Post Primary School Commission, assured that the Commission will deliver laboratory equipment to the school by state criteria.
High Chief Aguowu, the benefactor of the renovated building and Founder of IG Aguowu Health and Academic Foundation, emphasized his commitment to education and healthcare, noting that his foundation annually allocates N50 million for medical care and support for nearly 500 students through scholarships.
The President General, Nibo Town Union, Prof. Tony Nwokoye also acknowledged Mr Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s dedication to education and the ongoing efforts of the Union to enhance the school’s infrastructure.
The IG Aguowu Health and Academic Foundation would further its commitment with a scholarship award ceremony scheduled for August 30 at the International Conference Centre, Awka.
Present at the occasion include the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr Ifeoma Agbaizu.
*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed profound sorrow over the painful passing of Ms. Onyeka Onwenu, MFR, a beloved Nigerian music icon and distinguished daughter of Ndigbo, as she died on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the age of 72.
In his condolence message, Governor Soludo commiserated with her family and the Nigerian music industry as he described Ms. Onwenu as an unforgettable, beautiful beacon of joy and inspiration, widely recognised for her remarkable contributions to music and film.
The Governor recalled that the deceased, who was affectionately known as the “Elegant Stallion,” began her illustrious music career in the 1980s. Her debut album, “For the Love of You,” released in 1981, marked the beginning of a career that would see her produce numerous albums and timeless hits, including the iconic “One Love.”
Beyond her musical achievements, she also made significant strides in Nollywood, earning accolades for her performances and her commitment to the arts.
In addition to her entertainment career, Ms. Onwenu was a dedicated social activist and politician, using her platform to advocate for positive change and uplift her community.
Her legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and steadfast commitment to the betterment of society, making her an irreplaceable figure in the hearts of many.
Governor Soludo, therefore, extends his most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Onyeka Onwenu and all those who were touched by her artistry and spirit. He prays that her soul rests in peace and that her contributions to music and society continue to inspire future generations.
Anambra State Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji has urged the Anambra State Fire Service to be prepared and ready to take action when alerted by the public to combat a fire outbreak.
The commissioner said this when he received the Fire Service team, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office at Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka.
While commending their efforts in the state so far, he also encouraged them to continue sensitizing the people about the prevention of fire outbreaks.
“Your job is very essential and critical because without your office, when fire breaks out, it will be very destructive. I want to believe that you are relating with the markets and other public and private sectors on the prevention of fire outbreak, because fire outbreaks in the market can be very destructive too, Prevention is better than cure.
“Also, ensure you make your inputs on all the state government housing projects especially at the beginning of the projects. Right now, the state government is constructing a Solution Fun City which will be the biggest tourism hub in the sub Sahara Africa,” he added.
He congratulated the fire chief and his team on their appointment, noting, “We can be partners, as we are all working together to make Anambra State a smart, mega, and prosperous city where people can come to relax, work, invest, and enjoy.”
Earlier, the Chief of the Anambra State Fire Service, Mr Chiketa Chukwudi, expressed gratitude to the commissioner for the warm reception they received, saying that their visit was to seek collaboration with the ministry to carry out their goals of raising awareness about fire prevention, providing services, and conducting rescue operations to hospitality establishments and others.
” When we visited some hotels in the state, we discovered that some of them do not have fire extinguishers and this is very risky, that’s why we came to seek for the opportunity to move in and inform them of the importance of safety measures.
“A structure without fire safety measures is very perilous. If fire erupts, it can destroy everything. Therefore, I urge everyone constructing a structure to always implement safety measures,” he said.
* Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
