News

2ND ANAMBRA INVESTMENT SUMMIT: ASSEMBLY SPEAKER, UDEZE LAUDS GOVERNOR SOLUDO’s DEVELOPMENTAL STRIDES

By Chizoba Okeke :

The Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Right.Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze has said that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s training as a renowned Economist has benefited Anambra State greatly especially his prudent utilization of the state’s limited resources to achieve maximum result, evident in the overall development of the state as well as well-being of the people.

The speaker said this during the 2nd edition of the Anambra Investment Summit held at the International Conference Centre, Awka, describing the summit as presentation of Governor Soludo’s score card in two and half years in office, which he said, showcased giant strides in all sectors of the state economy.

He recounted massive road construction, employment of teachers and medical personnel, construction of key projects like the Ekwulobia flyover, new government house and lodge.

He went further noting the transformation of Okpoko into a mega city with roads and hospitals, prompt payment of worker’s salary with payment of minimum wage to workers and pensioners, as well as empowerment of over 13,000 (thirteen thousand) youths among others.

The speaker called on well meaning citizens especially industrialists to reflect on the theme of the summit “Changing Gear: Accelerating Anambra’s Economic Transformation” by partnering the state government in different ways through home investment in order to boost the state’s economic potentials.

Udeze enjoined the citizenry mainly business executives, manufacturers as well as all taxable adults to ensure prompt and appropriate payment of taxes and rates to improve the revenue profile of the state government to match Governor Soludo’s investment, economic and development drive in the state.

Okeke is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA NUJ PRESS WEEK 2024/AWARDS DAY: HOS FELICITATES WITH NONYE SOLUDO AS SHE BAGS AWARD

By MaryAnn Chukwuma :

The Head of Service, Lady Okwy Igwegbe has felicitated with the wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo on the award she received as the ‘Most supportive governor’s wife and the voice of the voiceless’ during the 2024 Press Week and Man of the Year Awards of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council at Godwin Ezeemo International Press Center, Awka

This felicitation came shortly after receiving the award on behalf of the governor’s wife at the event themed ‘The Media, And Trajectories For Anambra State’s Future In A Dwindling Economy’.

She noted that the award was properly considered and a pointer to the fact that Anambra people appreciate the selfless services the wife of the governor renders to people in the state and beyond,
describing the awardee as a person with a large heart, humane, humble and someone you could rely on.

Lady Igwegbe highlighted programs of the wife of the governor such as Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo as one of the platforms through which she has touched the lives of many in the state while calling for all and sundry to subscribe and follow the Healthy Living program with Nonye Soludo.

She further said that Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo has touched the lives of many women and the vulnerable through her empowerment programmes and providing for the less privileged particularly those in the different homes for the less privileged in the state. She praised the organizers of the event for recognizing the efforts of Dr. Nonye Soludo in supporting the governor and for her role in caring for the down trodden in the society.

She also congratulated other award recipients and
encouraged well meaning ndi Anambra to emulate the humanitarian activities performed by these awardees as service to humanity remained one of the few keys to eternal gratification.

The HOS thanked the host, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu (PhD) and other members of the NUJ for organizing such an intriguing event with a theme in sync with the realities on ground while advising them as media experts to make demands on news censoring, insisting on factual reportage as the social media news proliferation is almost causing more harm than good to the image of the nation and it’s people.

Chukwuma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

12TH CISA CONFERENCE SET FOR GEORGIA USA IN Q2 2025

By Uche Kalu :

The 12th edition of the Council for Igbo States in the Americas (CISA) conference has been slated for the second quarter of 2025 in Georgia, USA. According to Chief Mathias Mgbeafulu, CISA’s Director of Publicity and Media, the event’s theme, “Reconnecting with our Ancestors at Igbo Landing,” was announced by Dr. Mrs. Uzoamaka Aguoji, CISA’s President, during a governing council meeting.

The statement read that CISA has officially unveiled the dates for its 2025 global cultural and arts festival. Slated for July 24-25, 2025, the highly anticipated event will unfold in Brunswick and St. Simons Island, Georgia, USA, showcasing the rich cultural heritage, unity, and development of Igbos living in the United States.

The Anambra born pioneering female President of CISA shed more light on the festival’s significance, saying ,”The CISA festival serves as a vibrant global platform showcasing the richness of Igbo cultural heritage through an array of captivating live entertainment, savory Igbo cuisine, stunning arts and craft exhibitions, and diverse cultural performances by youths, women, and men, we celebrate the beauty and essence of Igbo tradition,” she emphasised.

She highlighted the festival’s emotional centerpiece: the reconnection and naming ceremony rituals. These poignant experiences reunite African Americans of Igbo descent with their ancestral families, forging lasting bonds. This meaningful tradition remains the festival’s foundation.

Aguoji extended an invitation to culture enthusiasts worldwide to participate in the spectacular event, emphasizing that the 12th edition of the festival in 2025 would be “a groundbreaking cultural exposition of Ndigbo outside Nigeria,” promising a unique and unforgettable experience.

Kalu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA COMMISSIONER FOR HEALTH MAKES UNSCHEDULED VISITS TO AWKUZU, ENUGWU-UKWU GENERAL HOSPITALS

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, has carried out unscheduled visits to Awkuzu and Enugwu-Ukwu General Hospitals aimed at assessing the state of healthcare, service delivery and ensuring that hospitals in the state maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and patient care.

He toured various departments within both hospitals, including the outpatient and emergency units, as well as the wards.

During the visits, the Commissioner observed the condition of hospital facilities, the availability of medical supplies, and the overall welfare of patients and staff.

Dr. Obidike emphasized the importance of maintaining operational excellence in all public health facilities across the state.

“These unannounced visits are part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that healthcare facilities in the state are providing quality care to the people.

“It is essential that we maintain high standards in all our hospitals so as to foster public trust and improve health outcomes.

“I must commend the medical personnel at Awkuzu General Hospital for their commitment and professionalism in attending to their patients and I urged Enugwu-Ukwu medical personnel to learn from Awkuzu General Hospital workers.”

The Commissioner also took the opportunity to engage with hospital staff, offering support and encouragement, identifying areas that require improvement.

He acknowledged the hard work of the medical personnel and urged them to continue prioritizing patient care and professionalism at all times.

Dr. Obidike noted that the government of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo is committed to addressing any challenges identified at all times.

These unscheduled visits are part of the mandate given to us by the governor, broader strategy to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare services in the state, with a focus on accountability, transparency, and public health improvement.

The Commissioner while calling on residents to report any issues they experience at healthcare facilities, assured them that prompt action will be taken where necessary.

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

IDEMILI NORTH NYCN LAUNCHES ANTI-DRUG ABUSE CAMPAIGN

By Chiedu Uche Okoye and Amaka Iloanya ;

National Youth Council of Nigeria(NYCN), Idemili North Chapter, under the leadership of Comr. Nwobosi Gideon Chukwuebuka, has kicked off awareness campaign for its upcoming programme tagged “Idemili North Youth Redemption Crusade”.

The president of the youth organisation in Idemili North LGA, Comrade Chukwuebuka Nwobosi, made the disclosure in his office at Ogidi about the forthcoming week-long event scheduled to take place this month.

He said the programme is designed to educate impressionable school children in Idemili North LGA on the consequences of their involvement in such anti-social acts as drug abuse, teenage prostitution, truancy in school, cultism, stealing, abortion, early marriage, and other social vices.

According to Comrade Nwobosi, the organisation would visit two secondary schools in each town, which is in Idemili North LGA, for the reformative, educative, and counselling programme.

More so, Comr. Nwobosi expressed his readiness to partner with NDLEA, NPF, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Information, ASATU, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and other relevant agencies to ensure a smooth and successful program in Idemili North LGA .

He regretted that many young people, who failed to realise their potential owing to bad parenting, peer pressure/influence, and misguidance, are now lunatics, single mothers, drug addicts, criminals, and layabouts.

He, however, expressed optimism that the NYCN Idemili North Chapter would use the programme to re-mould the personalities of the young people and steer them to the right path of moral rectitude in order for them to become useful and responsible citizens of Nigeria.

Other members of the NYCN Idemili North Chapter, who accompanied Comrade Nwobosi on the awareness campaign for its programme were Comrades Chinedu Okenwa, Kelly; Emmanuel Muoghalu, Ajee; Adaora Obiesie, Adadioranma; Emeka Ezeanya; and others

Okoye and Iloanya are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NNEWI DUAL ROAD PROJECT TAKES OFF WITH DEMOLITION OF MARKED STRUCTURES

By Enoch Uzuegbunam/Anthony Okpanku/Chioma Akaogu :

In a significant step towards transforming Nnewi’s infrastructure, the demolition of marked structures commenced has commenced to pave way for the dual road reconstruction project. The project aimed at enhancing connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.

President Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, Dr. Maduka Atuenyi, expressed support for the project, praising Governor Soludo for initiating the work. He ensured a smooth demolition process with security personnel. The clearing of structures was initially scheduled to start early in the morning but was delayed to allow residents to remove their belongings.

The supervising councilor on works in Nnewi North LGA, Mr Amobi Adigwulu who represented the chairman, Mr Echezona Anazodo, confirmed the project’s 12-months timeline. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of the governor and chairman to make nnewi a wonderful city and urged residents to comply with the reconstruction process.

Nnewi Youth Forum President, Ejim Ucheagwu appealed to affected individuals to endure the temporary inconvenience, citing the success of Okpunoeze Road as an example of the project’s potential benefits.

Some residents expressed joy on the project. Chioma Okeke, Mr Ben, a commercial motorcyclist praised the governor, acknowledging the long-term economic benefits.

Also Mr. Mike, a Keke driver, praised the community’s cooperation, saying, “God bless Soludo for this; more is coming.”

The demolition began at Owerri road (roundabout junction area)proceeding down to Ozubulu -Okija Road axis.

Uzuegbunam, Okpanku and Akaogu are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NNEWI NORTH INFORMATION OFFICERS PAY COURTESY VISIT TO CHAIRMAN ANAZODO

By Chidubem Okoye, Enoch Uzuegbunam, Anthony Okpanku and Chioma Akaogu :

In a show of solidarity and cooperation, information officers from the Ministry of Information, Awka posted to Nnewi North LGA have paid a visit to the Chairman of the LGA, Mr Echezona Anazodo to familiarize themselves with him and also congratulate him on his emergence as the newly elected chairman.

Mr Anazodo who warmly welcomed the officers, promised to collaborate with them and expressed his joy at having them on board. He emphasized his commitment to working closely with Governor Charles Soludo to transform Nnewi into a great city.

As the newly elected chairman, Anazodo has already begun making strides in Nnewi North. He has inspected damaged roads, reaffirming his commitment to partnering with the community for development. With his focus on security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment, Anazodo aims to make Nnewi North a prosperous homeland for all.

Okoye, Uzuegbunam, Okpanku and Akaogu are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

NDI IGBO UNITE TO PRESERVE IGBO LANGUAGE, SAYS INFORMATION COMMISSIONER MEFOR

By Obianuju Umeh :

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor has called on ndi Igbo to promote and sustain Igbo language

Dr Mefor gave this charge at the 2024 celebration of Asusu Igbo ga- adigide organised by Anambra State Library board,

He revealed that Igbo language is amongst the listed world endangered languages.

The information boss frowned at parents who rebuke their children that speak Igbo , urging them to be at the forefront in making sure that their children speak their mother tongue.

He mentioned Igbo audio visual tapes as one of the gadgets to help children learn Igbo language.

Dr Mefor advised state government to be intentional about promoting Igbo Language by giving scholarship to Igbo language scholars

He pledged the support of Anambra State Government through the Ministry of Information to help promote and preach the importance of sustaining Igbo language to a wider audience.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Director, Anambra State Library, Mrs Obioma Obalum said that the annual programme was aimed at promoting Igbo language and culture , noting that language is one’s identity.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof L.O Ezenweke of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, commended the efforts of the library for hosting such programme and advised the students to know their native mother tongue as well as central Igbo.

Speaking on the theme , ‘Umu ntorobia Igbo: Agwa bụ nma’ , Prof Nkechinyere Nwokoye of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka urged the youths to imbibe good behavioural traits. She listed truthfulness, kind heartdness, forgiveness amongst others as traits of good behaviour.

Prof Nwokoye advised the youths to shun drug abuse and avoid any form of misbehaviour

In his remark, the traditional ruler of Umuawulu, Igwe Joel Egwuonwu, frowned at parents who do not speak Igbo language to their children, charging them to retrace their steps.

Competition on essay writing and spelling in Igbo language, cultural dances and presentation of gifts formed high point of the event.

Umeh is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA STUDENTS DECRY TEACHER APATHY, SEEK GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

By Chizoba Njaka :

Despite the Anambra State Government’s commitment to providing free and quality education from nursery to senior secondary school, some teachers’ lackluster attitude undermines this initiatives.

Investigations reveal widespread absenteeism among teachers who attend school solely to clock in, neglecting core subjects like Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics, leaving the students at the mercy of corps members who lack teaching expertise.

In an interview, students from various government schools expressed concern that most often the test given to them in class are not supervised and monitored thus giving room for malpractices and undermining academic integrity.

According to the students, teachers often administer tests, withdraw to the staff room without monitoring or supervision.

They decried the teachers’ abusive language, excessive punishment and overwhelming take home assignments without prior instruction.

The students noted that teachers justify their lax attitude, saying, ”teaching is conscience-driven,’ implying no obligation since students don’t pay fees and there is no more financial motivation.

They urged the state government to establish daily monitoring teams to oversee teacher performance as well as student-teacher relationships as it concerns the core subjects to enable them get the best of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s education policy.

The students expressed gratitude to the state government for promoting education, fostering global parity and prayed for continued wisdom and visionary leadership.

Njaka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA BOOSTS CONNECTIVITY WITH EXPANDED SOLUTION WIFI

By Nwanodu Angela.N :

In alignment with Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of “Everything Technology and Technology Everywhere,” the Anambra State Government has made significant progress in providing free, high-speed internet access across the state through the Solution Wi-Fi Initiative.

This project is part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model that the Soludo administration adopted to drive Anambra’s digital revolution, ensuring that technological advancement benefits every resident.

Launched as a pilot with three strategic locations—Aroma Junction, Book Foundation, and School Gate Ifite—the Solution Wi-Fi Initiative has rapidly expanded, now connecting 14 additional locations across Anambra.

This growth reflects the administration’s commitment to bridging the digital divide, giving students, businesses, and residents greater access to the online resources essential for learning, development, and economic empowerment.

The Solution Wi-Fi Initiative is driven by the Anambra State ICT Agency in collaboration with Pine Heights Systems Limited (PHSWEB).

Through this partnership, the PPP model accelerates digital infrastructure development, empowering Anambra to lead in technology inclusion while optimizing resources and expertise.

As Solution Wi-Fi reaches more locations, connectivity is now available to a broader population.

Governor Soludo’s administration envisions a state where internet access supports innovation, education, and economic growth, reinforcing the belief that digital inclusion is fundamental for social progress.

With each new location connected, the Solution Wi-Fi Initiative brings Anambra closer to a fully connected digital ecosystem. The state government remains committed to extending this network to even more areas, underscoring Governor Soludo’s vision for a tech-savvy state, that provides equitable access to technology and positions its citizens for success in the digital economy.

Together, the Anambra State Government and Pine Heights Systems Limited (PHSWEB) are setting the stage for a future where technology fosters growth, learning, and opportunity, making Anambra a beacon of digital transformation in Nigeria.