News

ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY PASSES ENVIRONMENTAL BILL

By Chizoba Okeke, Anastasia Agunwa, Gloria Abugu :

The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed the Environmental Management, Protection, and Administration Bill, 2024.

This follows Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s assent to 11 bills passed by the Assembly earlier today.

The bill, passed during today’s plenary session, seeks to provide a legal framework for the management, protection, and sustainability of the environment in Anambra State.

The bill successfully passed its third reading after deliberations and consideration at the Committee of the Whole. The Majority Leader, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, moved a motion for the third reading and passage, which was seconded by the member representing Nnewi North Constituency, Honourable Augustine Ike.

The Speaker, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, read the bill for the third time and announced its passage after it garnered wide support from the lawmakers.

He appreciated the legislators for their efforts throughout the stages of the bill, stating that it truly reflects their commitment towards making Anambra a better place.

MD ASBA SAYS SOLUDO PROVIDES SUCCOUR TO CIVIL SERVANTS AFTER RETIREMENT

By Chiamaka Edokwe :

Amidst economic uncertainties where budgets tighten and expenses scrutinized, the Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s Administration through Anambra State Small business Agency(ASBA),has provided succor for civil servants after retirement through the ASBA Civil Servant Solution Retirement Entrepreneurship Loan Scheme.

According to the MD/CEO ASBA, Mr Clement Chukwuka during a media chat in his office complex, the scheme aimed at supporting civil servants to have a thriving business to fall back on after service.

“Gov. Soludo’s Administration is very passionate about the workers’ welfare even after retirement hence his willingness to supporting and funding their means of livehood after retirement.”

Mr Chukwuka reiterated that the Agency’s mandate remained to ensure that poverty is reduced to its bearest minimum through funding and capacity building.

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

GOVERNMENT FLAGS OFF OKO POLYTECHNIC’S TREE PLANTING EXERCISE

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government has flagged off tree planting campaign initiated by the Federal Polytechnic Oko for the protection and conservation of environmental ecosystem.

Performing the symbolic tree planting exercise under its”Operation Go Green” at the institution’s premises,the State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor noted that the gesture would help regulate the climate and ensure ecosystem stability.

The Commissioner who was ably represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka, said protecting the environment is among the government’s vision to transform the state into a liveable, prosperous mega city.

He posited that the state has been bedevilled by deforestation, hence the need to engage in mass tree planting, adding that the idea is to mobilize every student to plant at least one tree.

“Every student of the school should have one tree planted.This campaign should also be taken to homes and other institutions.Ndi Anambra should plant trees, if you fell one tree, you plant at least five trees”

While urging Ndi Anambra to not only plant trees to ensure healthy living, check erosion and guard against global warming, he underscored the need to nurture them until they grow up.

The Acting Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr Uche Onyegbu, described the event as a noble exercise and in fulfillment of already mapped out policy of the institution on environmental protection, conservation and aesthetics.

He explains that the institution understands the importance of protecting the environment, hence considered it worthy to embark on the exercise to also prevent gully erosion already threatening structures in the institution.

Dr Uchegbu, then, appealed to the state government to partner the school in its effort to control identified gully erosion sites, calling for more collaboration in the area of establishment of School of Agriculture at its Ufuma campus.

Contributing, a Former Board Member, National Board For Technology Incubation and member of Academic Staff Union of the Research Institute, Hon Cletus Amaraegbu, urged the institution’s management to take full ownership of the Tenera Specie high yielding oil palm and coconut seedlings.

A Nollywood Actor recognised as the face of the “Operation Go Green”initiative, Mr Stephen Eboh, outlined other benefits of the exercise to include revenue generation, erosion control and other economic derivables.

He pointed out that with the commencement of the exercise, the institution has set the pace in the comity of higher institutions of higher learning in promoting environmental friendly ecosystem.

In a Vote of Thanks, the Acting Registrar of the institution Mr Obini Onuchukwu, called on those who still engage in deforestation to desist, noting that it is the major cause of the present global warming the whole world is experiencing.

He commended the State Governor, Prof Charles Soludo, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, Hon Amaraegbu and other Principal Officers of the institution for their contributions and support services towards the realisation of the project.

Mr Onuchukwu, added that the institution will partner the State Ministry of Agriculture to develop Aqua-culture and related activities at its Atani campus.

In attendance at the ceremony were, Deputy Rector, Dr Ken Ezekwe, Bursar, Mr Stephen Udu amongst others.

Ugokwe is of the State Ministry of Information

ANAMBRA STATE LAUNCHES AMBITIOUS TREE PLANTING AND URBAN FORESTATION INITIATIVE

By Lilian Akpunonu :

The Anambra State Ministry of Environment has launched a massive tree planting and urban forestation initiative on June 10 at the Orpet Filling Station (Ez Electronics and Furniture) Agu Awka, aimed at planting millions of trees across the state, revive eroded lands, and beautify the environment.

The wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has emphasized the importance of trees in the ecosystem, encouraging residents to support the state’s tree planting and urban forestation initiative.

She suggested a hotline for reporting tree cutting, highlighting the need for collective action in protecting the environment.

Speaking at the launch, the Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Felix Odimegwu, emphasized the importance of trees in maintaining ecological balance, producing oxygen, and supporting wildlife.

He noted that trees play a crucial role in climate regulation, soil erosion control, and noise pollution reduction.

According to him, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification reports that up to 40% of the planet’s land is degraded, affecting half of the world’s population.

He noted that since the inception of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo’s Administation, Anambra State has launched several green initiatives, including the “One House, Two Trees” campaign, 35% green spacing initiative, and cut-one-plant-three initiative.

The commissioner said that the state government distributed and planted over one million hybrid Malaysian coconut trees and oil palms seedlings annually.

He went further to highlight the Key reforestation projects which include the Unizik Forest Reserve, Enugwu Ukwu erosion site, Ekwueme Square, and the Anambra State House of Assembly.

The launch of greening projects at Amazon Estates and other sites aimed to enhance ecological and climate resilience.

The vision is to see Anambra’s streets, roads, and highways adorned with trees, creating a green canopy.

He stressed that 200 trees will be planted today, including Strep trees, Tujar, Queen Palms, and Asoka trees.

The planting will start from Revenue House to Book Foundation and extend to Onitsha and other towns over time.

The Commissioner urged citizens to join the greening journey, saying, “Trees are our lifelines, and without them, our world would become barren and lifeless. Let us act now for a greener tomorrow”.

He also said that the gift trees is also given as birthday souvenirs to important personalities to encourage personal involvement in nurturing the environment.

The initiative is part of the state’s efforts to enhance ecological and climate resilience, and create a green canopy across Anambra State.

Prof. Kate Omenugha, Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), expressed support for the initiative and pledged to ensure its success.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mr Obodogha Tochukwu, highlighted today’s planting as a step toward a Greener future, a continuous effort that shapes a better tomorrow. Let’s join forces to make a lasting impact for our Environment.

Dr. John obodo, The founding Director, Sahelian Institute for Bamboo Research and Entrepreneurship Development (SIBRED) was represented by Dr. Achugbu Adaeze who commended the commissioner’s effort and pledged to support the initiatives.

In their Goodwill message, Prof Ngozi Ezenwa-Ohaeto commended Gov. Soludo’s initiatives of planting trees in Anambra State.

Prof Philip Phil Eze, The Managing Director and chief Executive officer of Anambra State Erosion, Watershed and Climate Change Agency(ASEWCA) commended the Governor’s initiatives and pledged support for the initiative.

House of Assembly member, Mr Eze Golden Ilo, commended the Government Environmental initiatives.

Architect Mike Okonkwo, Chairman, Anambra Urban Regeneration Council (AURC), thanked the governor for his vision that was implemented today and emphasize the importance of securing a greener future for tomorrow.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment, Tourism and Culture, Bobmanuel Udokwu said, “by planting today, we are investing in a greener environment tomorrow no matter how we see it, it is a continuous process. Let’s sustain this vision of our Governor’s initiatives and create a sustainable Environment for generations to come.

*Lilian is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: ANAMBRA MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT JOINS GLOBAL CELEBRATION

By Lilian Akpunonu :

The Anambra State Ministry of Environment joined the international community in commemorating World Environment Day (WED), 2024, a United Nations initiative celebrated annually on June 5th. This year’s theme, “Our Land, Our Future: Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought,” highlights the urgent need to address land degradation, which affects over 40% of global land and half of the world’s population.

According to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, land degradation costs the global economy up to 12% of its GDP, equivalent to $4.7 trillion annually. In Anambra State, land degradation has led to soil erosion, flooding, and loss of biodiversity, affecting the livelihoods of millions of people.

The Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, emphasized the importance of restoring land values through sustainable environmental practices. He stressed that land degradation is a significant contributor to erosion in the state and urged citizens to take proactive steps towards environmental conservation.

He explained that the ministry has set achievable goals and planned activities, events, and policy amendments to combat land degradation and promote a cleaner, greener, and sustainable Anambra State. Part of the initiatives is to Plant more trees across the state.

The celebration is part of the global “Generation Restoration” movement, which aims to unite people worldwide in restoring the environment for future generations.

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

EEDC TO COMMENCE MOBILE MAP METERING OF “BAND A” CUSTOMERS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has concluded plans to commence the metering of customers served by “Band A” feeders across its network through its mobile MAP metering initiative.

The exercise which is expected to kick off in Enugu on Tuesday, June 11th, 2024, will focus on EEDC customers served by “Band A” feeders under its Ogui, Awkunanaw, and Abakpa districts.

The Head, Corporate Communications, EEDC. Mr. Emeka Ezeh, who made this known through a press statement, said the Mobile MAP metering approach is part of efforts by EEDC to ensure that customers under service “Band A” across its network are metered within 48 hours.

According to him, the company adopted this approach to ensure that the affected customers who enjoy minimum daily availability of 20 hours can begin to manage their energy consumption and pay for what they consume.

EEDC customers under Awkunanaw district, served by Topland 11KV, Gariki 11KV, Amaechi 33KV, and UNEC 11KV feeders are to visit the EEDC Service Center at Mayor Bus Stop, Agbani Road.

In the same vein, customers under Ogui District, served by New Haven 11KV, Abakaliki Road, 11KV, Power House 11KV, Chime Avenue 11KV, Onitsha Road 11KV, and Golf 11KV feeders, are to visit EEDC Ogui District office at Station Road, Enugu; while customers under Abakpa District served by Abakpa 3 11KV, Dhamija 11KV, Nowas 11KV, and Ugwuogo 33KV feeders are to visit Trans Ekulu Service Center.

Customers are expected to visit the mentioned locations with a valid form of identification (either Drivers License, Voters Card, NIN or International Passport) and a copy of their bills. Officials of EEDC will assist them with the MAP application process and installation of the meter will be made once payment is confirmed.

The MAP metering program allows customers to pay and get metered and reimbursed with the value of the cost of meter through energy over a period.

Ezeh affirmed that gradually, the exercise will be extended to other Band A feeders across EEDC franchise area.

Unmetered customers, especially those under service “Band A” are urged to take advantage of this program and get metered, bearing in mind that they will be reimbursed with the value of the cost of the meter through energy over a period.

This exercise is carried out by EEDC in conjunction with its MAPs (Meter Asset Providers) – MOJEC International Limited and Advanced Energy Management Services (AEMS).

MAP is a metering intervention designed and approved by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to close the existing metering gap in the power sector.

ANAMBRA GOVERNMENT SOLICITS DEEPER STRATEGIC INVESTMENT COOPERATION WITH CHINA

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Anambra State Government and a Delegation from the Peoples Republic of China have opened discussions that will coordinate cooperation in strategic developmental areas of interests to advance relationship between them.

An eight man delegation from China had visited the state to explore investment opportunities and collaboration in key sectors under “Anambra-China Shenzhen Great Bay Cooperation”

Setting the tune for commencement of meeting at Golden Tulip Hotel, Agulu,the State Commissioner For Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, recalled that Gov had sought the possibility of China opening up production plants in the state.

While affirming the state government’s commitment to fostering lasting intercourse with China, he acknowledged that the footprint of the Chinese could be felt in almost everything.

He pointed out that China had contributed greatly to the successes recorded in the priority areas including agriculture, hence the need for an economic marriage for expansion and to add more value.

The Commissioner commended the relationship between China and Anambra State, expressing optimism that it would grow even better in the coming years.

Contributing,the State Commissioner For Industry, Mr Christian Udechukwu,highlighted abundant multi sectoral opportunities existing in the for partnership to include Power generation, Airport concessioning,Orient petroleum and petro chemical plant as well as Food Security, poultry and egg project.

He also identified development of industrial parks and Silicon Valley Solution Innovation District as one of the existing areas of support and collaboration.

A Member of the delegation,Wang Bo,said the meeting was vital to build a stronger relationship with the state for a shared future especially in areas of real estate, construction, design, industrial and solar plants.

He added that they would work out synergy to advance relationship in ensuring projects design and feasibility reports, resource integration capability as well as project financing.

Some of the facilitators of the visit including Destiny Osili and Jude Okwudiba of the Earth wheel Works, said the State and China had witnessed substantial progress in mutually beneficial cooperation as China had become one of the State’s top trading partners.

They said the decision by the Chinese delegation to visit the state was a reflection of the importance which China attached to her relationship with the state.

Some of the Commissioners and dignitaries on the state delegation included,Bar Tony Ifeanya, Commissioner For Petroleum, Dom Onyenji, Commissioner For Culture and Entertainment, Special Adviser on Security, Rtd Air Vice Marshall Ben Chiobi, Managing Director, Housing Corporation, Chike Anyaonu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka among Others

DR. NONYE SOLUDO FLAGGED OFF 2024 HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS VACCINE

Ifeanyi C. Nwegbo/Nnedimma Okeke/Chukwudi Nwauba :

The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo has called on women and girls, aged 9-14 years to be allowed to embark on the important initiative of free human papilloma virus vaccine which promises to safeguard their health from cervical cancer for their well being.

Dr. Soludo made the called during flagging off ceremony of human papilloma virus vaccine at Micheal Tansi Memorial Secondary School, Aguleri.

She said that the vaccine will tackle a significant health challenge which might cause the death of our women in the country.

She also said that the vaccine is free as well as conducting free cervical screening in the health facilities in Anambra State to provide early detection to our women in the state at large.

Dr. Soludo commended the efforts of Anambra State Government through which the Ministry of Health and Anambra State Primary Health Centres and partnership with WHO, UNICEF, others as supporting the state government efforts by taken health campaign to the next level.

While speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike said that Gov. Chukwuma Soludo has done so well in the health sector of Ndi Anambra, mostly for picking interest in planning for children from the time they are conceived till they are grown.

Dr Obidike said, “In the first phase of papilloma virus vaccine, Anambra East Local Government Area participated very low and that is why they chose Anambra East.

He thanked Gov. Soludo for renovating Umueri General Hospital and the construction of Enugwu Otu General Hospital, Aguleri for the people living around that community.

The Executive Secretary Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Pharm. Chisom Uchem said that the essence of introducing this HPV vaccine is for a medical breakthrough that provides effective protection against the most harmful strains of virus.

She said that the decision to administer the HPV vaccine to girls 9 to14 years is guided by sound scientific evidence. At this age, the vaccine is most effective, providing a strong shield against the virus before any potential exposure.

According to her, this proactive approach will ensure that our girls have a better chance at a healthy future, free from the spectre of cervical cancer.

The Zonal Coordinator of South East World Health Organisation, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboeko thanked Gov. Soludo and his team for allowing the introduction of HPV vaccines in Anambra State in order to avoid cervical cancer.

He explained that the ravages of cervical cancer is real in our country at large, and urged parents to allow their children and women to take the vaccine.

Dr. Igboeko encouraged Anambra State Government to always support health because good health will yield a lot of potential dividend and political Capital for the government.

The Vice Chancellor of Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Prof. Kate Omenugha and Provost College of Education Nsugbe, Dr. Justina Anyadiegwu congratulated Gov. Soludo for strategic changes he brought to Anambra State at large.

She thanked Mrs Soludo for her care toward women and children in the state and promised that they will partner and mobilize people to make sure that this HPV Vaccine get to the target audience.

The Chairman House Committee on Health, Mr. Tony Muobuike thanked Gov. Soludo for keeping to his promise of offering free HPV Vaccine to the children and women of Anambra State.

He promised that House of Assembly will do all in their reach to make sure that Soludo’s mission and vision to this will come to manifestation.

The event attracted lots of dignitaries including Ndi Igwe, former TC Chairman Anambra East, Dr. Anselm Onuorah , Female professors of Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam and staff of Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe.

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

PROF. OFOEGBU CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING IN ANAMBRA

By Adaobi Nsofor :

Citizens of Anambra State have been urged to desist from illegal mining that would endanger their lives and slow down the economic activities of the state.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State Solid Mineral Development Company Limited, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu stated this during an interview in his office at the Government House, Awka.

Prof. Ofoegbu noted that mining which is one of the oldest economic activities in the state is being tampered with on a daily basis, which is a serious issue that shouldn’t be neglected.

He maintained that illegal mining can lead to environmental degradation including deforestation, soil erosion and water pollution which will in turn affect the eco system and increase poverty level especially among peasant farmers who depend solely on environmental resources for a living.

Prof Ofoegbu further emphasised that Anambra State is strongly positioned to build a thriving, socially responsible mineral industry that drives broad-based economic growth.

He believes that Anambra’s Mineral sector if fully optimised, can contribute massively to the state’s GDP, enable widespread industrialization and provide employment opportunities for the youths in the state.

According to him, the Soludo-led administration is determined to establish workable synergies between miners and the host communities in order to curtail the activities of the illegal miners in the state.

Prof. Ofoegbu who recalled that Governor Soludo had earlier in the year banned sand excavation in Anambra State following the discovery that it is fuelling the gully erosion menace in most communities in the state, called on Ndi Anambra to participate actively and benefit from the state’s mining sector by developing relevant skills that will enable socio economic upliftment.

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

PROF OMENUGHA HARPS ON IMPORTANCE OF PEACE TO HUMANITY, DESCRIBES IT AS ACT OF EVANGELISM

By Chizoba Njaka :

The Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Professor Kate Omenugha

has said that promoting peace and harmony is a form of evangelism, spreading love, kindness, and compassion.

Professor Omenugha stated this while delivering her paper, ‘Culture of Peace’, during the Annual Peace Advocate and Convention and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Peace and Leadership Centre’s multi-purpose building project, held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Awka.

According to Prof Omenugha, a culture of peace can only be achieved through the dedicated efforts of individuals. She emphasized that it requires a collective commitment, starting with one person and spreading to the entire society.

The former Commissioner for Basic Education stressed that conflict and lack of understanding would not bring peace but would only result to disorderliness in both families, society and the nation, adding that peace is paramount in everyone’s life.

She further noted that the absence of a culture of peace is a root cause of global crises. She emphasized that failing to cultivate peace has far-reaching consequences, particularly in Nigeria, where neglecting the law has led to more harm than good. This neglect, she stressed, has a profound impact on youth development, infrastructure, health, and the overall social wellbeing of young people, perpetuating cycles of suffering and hindering progress.

Professor Omenugha emphasized that children, the future leaders of tomorrow, deserve attention and investment for positive change. However, parents often prioritize exam success over genuine education, promoting malpractice and special centers.

She however, warned that a good citizen of the nation must endeavour to take part and be law abiding to make things work perfectly for the government and avoid any form of social vices.

She urged citizens to take responsibility, be law-abiding, and shun social vices to support the government. To embrace peace, she advocated for creating a society with justice and equity, where inter-ethnic dialogue, education, and responsible media promotion of peace are prioritized.

“For peace to exist we need to create a society where there is justice and equity.”

She stressed the importance of proactive justice, conscious language usage, and avoiding inflammatory words that can spark violence or problems. By working together, we can establish peace and foster a better future.

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