News
THE BIG CATCH UP: ASPHCDA TO VACCINATE MISSED CHILDREN FROM COVID-19 ERA
By Nnedinma Okeke :
The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 and 2021 significantly impacted global immunization coverage, resulting in setback with decline in coverage leading to an almost 40 percent rise in the number of zero-dose/unvaccinated children globally.
This signifies a significant setback for immunization efforts and poses a global emergency for child survival.
In view of this, the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and Partners are set to commence the Big Catch Up (BCU) campaign in Anambra State.
The Big Catch Up campaign, a global initiative launched by Immunization Agenda 2030 partners in April 2023 was to close immunity gaps caused by backsliding of immunization coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic, while supporting recovery and acceleration of progress.
It is needed to protect children from morbidity, disability and mortality caused by Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPDs), to interrupt ongoing protracted VPD outbreaks, and to build population immunity.
Also, to realize goal/vision for Vaccine preventable disease control, elimination/eradication, to ensure the right of the child to get vaccine, and to save costs of household from medical treatment.
The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem in the BCU planning meeting held at ASPHCDA office complex noted that the campaign aligns with the global mandate of leaving no child behind from accessing life-saving interventions including immunization and other PHC services.
Pharm Uchem represented by the Director Disease Control and Immunization, ASPHCDA, Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi, explained that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted immunization program, resulting in multiple outbreaks of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs) thereby exacerbating the prevalence of Zero Dose children.
“It is therefore essential for the State and Nigeria at large to take proactive measures to reach zero dose and underimmunized children by intensifying current strategies and implementing catch-up initiatives.
“The Big Catch Up utilizes scientifically validated, programmatically suitable and globally recognized methods to prioritize zero dose and under-immunized children in nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State.
“These LGAs are: Aguata, Ihiala, Orumba south, Orumba North, Idemili North, Idemili south, Anaocha, Ayamelum, and Nnewi south LGAs respectively,” She said.
The State Immunization Officer, ASPHCDA, Mrs Edith Onwuka coordinating the meeting noted objectives of the BCU to include: catching up with at least 65% of children missed during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2019 to 2022 through dedicated outreach, mobile services, and other interventions.
Also, to restore full range of immunization services whilst developing and implementing immunization programmes that prioritizes coverage and equity by addressing identified gender barriers and social determinants.
Mrs Onwuka retirates that with the Big Catch Up campaign, Anambra aims to reduce the zero dose tendency in the nine LGAs according to the national mandate.
She noted that parents/caregivers of children aged one to five years who missed out on vaccination during or after the COVID-19 pandemic has the opportunity to vaccinate their children which is free of charge.
“For this exercise which will last for six days, teams would be visiting houses, schools, churches, health facilities and everywhere children are found to vaccinate with Penta, PCV, and Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV),” the Immunization Officer explained.
The meeting had in attendance State Team, State Technical Facilitators and Partners to include: NPHCDA, UNICEF and WHO.
*Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
ANAMBRA STATE JOINS GLOBAL CAMPAIGN AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
By Chizoba Njaka :
The Anambra State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) recently joined the global campaign against gender-based violence, particularly violence against women and girls. The campaign, which ran from November 25 to December 10, aimed to raise awareness and promote action against this pervasive issue.
The campaign was launched by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Anambra State Police Command and other stakeholders. NAWOJ also participated in the campaign, emphasizing the need to address gender-based violence in the state.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, led the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence exercise in Awka. As part of the campaign, the ministry organized various programs, including conferences, press briefings, and sensitization visits to markets across the state. These efforts aimed to educate women about gender-based violence, which disproportionately affects them.
Mrs. Obinabo noted that many women in Anambra State have joined the campaign, believing it will restore hope and reduce abuse against women. Emphasizing the importance of unity, she encouraged women to come together, echoing this year’s theme, “Coming Together.”
In his contribution, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam noted that the command has a longstanding commitment to combating Gender-Based Violence, sexual violence, harassment, and other associated crimes.
A statement issued to journalists by the Police Public Relation Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga highlighted that the commitment is reflected in the formation of specialized units within the Force, including the Juvenile, Women and Child (JWC) unit, the Anti-Human Trafficking unit, and the Anti-Child Labour unit, among others, which are dedicated to addressing these sensitive issues.
Addressing women, the Managing Director, Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Mr. Christopher Muorokwu emphasized the importance of treating women with respect, care, and love. He noted that despite being created to complement men, women are often subjected to abuse and neglect.
Mr. Muorokwu described women as nation-builders, stressing that their roles in society are invaluable and should never be underestimated. He commended the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) for their collective efforts in combating gender-based violence and promoting women’s rights.
A Senior Lecturer at the Faulty of Law, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka,
Dr. Helen Obiageli Obi defined violence against women as the intentional use of physical force to harm them. According to her, “this violence can take various forms, including physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. Examples include intimate partner violence, sexual violence and harassment, human trafficking, female genital mutilation, and child marriage. These acts of violence can affect women at all stages of their lives, both within their homes and in society at large.”
Dr. Obi noted that gender-based violence can happen to anyone, anywhere, and serves as a significant obstacle to achieving equality, development, peace, and human rights for women and girls. However, she acknowledged that Nigeria has made significant strides in addressing domestic violence through legislative measures and legal remedies, such as the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act. These laws provide a framework for prosecuting perpetrators of violence against women.
A broadcast journalist and gender rights activist, Comrade Ify Unachukwu in her lecture titled “The Role of the Media in Combating Gender-Based Violence”, noted that cultural norms often perpetuate gender-based violence, and that journalists sometimes struggle to report on these issues due to harsh economic conditions.
Comrade Unachukwu also highlighted the challenges facing journalists in Nigeria, particularly the influence of corruption. She urged journalists to maintain ethical standards, emphasizing the importance of intentional and empathetic reporting, objectivity, confidentiality, and refusing bribes from victims.
Chairperson of the Anambra State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika urged women to speak out against any form of violence they may face. She encouraged women to break their silence and seek justice whether at home, work, in their marriages, or on the streets, assuring them that NAWOJ would do everything in its power to support them in their quest for justice.
A Media Consultant, Comrade Kasie Abone emphasized the importance of self-esteem and active listening for women journalists to excel in their reportage.
The event featured a road walk from the police command to ABS, Prof Dora Akunyili Women Development Center Awka, Aroma, and NUJ Secretariat. The walk aimed to raise awareness about the need to eradicate gender-based violence against women and girls.
ANSEC PICKS OKECHUKWU AKANEME’S MEDICAL EXPENSES, AWARDS MORE CRITICAL ROAD PROJECTS
The 37th Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) Meeting received the report of the fact-finding team sent by the Soludo government to the victim of brutality by some contractors of ASWAMA, Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, who is hospitalised in Enugu. In response to the report, the Council resolved to pick up the medical expenses of Mr Okechukwu Akaneme while sympathising with his family and praying for his quick recovery.
The Council applauded the addition of yet another accolade to the expanding list of honours previously obtained during the 32 months of the Governor Soludo administration during the 37th Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) Meeting. The National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), which took place in Abuja from November 22 to 30, 2024, recognised Anambra State as the most creative cultural troupe. The Abuja-based National Council for Arts and Culture organised the event.
The council thanked His Excellency President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR for appointing Mr. Mark Okoye, as the Managing Director/CEO of the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC), and commended Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR for facilitating the appointment. Until his appointment, Mr Okoye was the Managing Director of the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA).
In preparation for Yuletide, the Council instructed the relevant MDAs to make sure that all roads are not only passable by cars but also decked out in hospitable decorations.
As the dry season (harmattan) exacerbates the rise in airborne illnesses, the Council also urged its members and the people of the state to be more health-conscious.
Award of Road Contracts
The 37th Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) also considered and awarded the following Road contracts aimed at ensuring a memorable Christmas for Ndi Anambra:
1. The Council noted that many roads awarded at the last EXCO meeting, such as New Tarzan Road and the three roads whose contracts were revoked and re-awarded, have not been reported.
2. The 3.75 km Igwe Orizu Road Nnewi construction was awarded at the sum of N2.86 billion to New Idea Construction Company Ltd, and 30% mobilisation is to be paid immediately with the completion timeline of six months.
3. The 10.8 km Nkwor Nnewi to Nkwor Oraifite was awarded to Infratech Construction Ltd at the sum of N7.2 billion, with a 12 months completion timeline.
5. The Oraukwu-Abatete-Nimo bypass in Idemili North measuring 4.922km was awarded to GMG Global Construction and Development Company Ltd. At the sum of N4.7 billion, the delivery date is six months from the date of mobilization.
Law Mefor, PhD
Commissioner for Information
INFORMATION COMMISSIONER LAUDS SOLUDO’S 1YOUTH 2SKILLS TV INITIATIVE
By Steve Onyebuchi :
Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has lauded Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s initiative in setting up the 1Youth 2Skills TV and the Youth TV Studio for the Ministry of Youth Development.
The 1Youth 2Skills TV, which was approved as part of the 2024 Action Plan, was designed as a platform for information dissemination, youth engagement, and skills training.
Dr Mefor, who was visiting the TV Studio located at the Ministry of Youth Development Complex behind Government House, Awka, also commended the Ministry, led by Mr Patrick Agha Mba, for ensuring the effective implementation of Mr Governor’s initiative to enhance the youth development agenda of the Solution Administration.
According to the commissioner, the initiative aligns with Governor Soludo’s vision of jobs, jobs and quality jobs.
He maintained that Mr Governor does not believe in the government of palliatives that gives citizens rice or fish, but believes in the government that will teach you how to catch fish, train you on skills and give you necessary funds for a smooth take off, which is reflected in the 1Youth 2Skills Solution of Prof Soludo’s Administration, noting that the Federal Government has also adopted the initiative. Dr Mefor commended the Commissioner for Youth Development for his plans to go beyond 1Youth 2Skills to 1 Youth Multiple Skills.
While praising the 1Youth 2Skills TV Production Crew for quality and professional service delivery, the Commissioner assured that the Ministry of Information will support and promote the initiative, especially to the grassroots, urging town unions to emulate the Obosi community that has started 1Family, 2Skills in furtherance of the Governor Soludo’s 1Youth, 2Skills programme.
NKPOR MAIN MARKET INSTALLS 22 SOLAR STREET LIGHTS, TAKE SECURITY MEASURES AGAINST HOODLUMS, FIRE OUTBREAK
By Uzo Ugwunze :
The Caretaker Committee, Nkpor Main Market led by Chief Paul Okafor has installed 22 Solar powered street lights around the market and also embarked on serious security measures to secure the market from hoodlums and any form of fire outbreak as they brace up for Christmas seasonal rush.
Addressing newsmen in his office shortly after the last general open market prayers for the year, Chief Paul Okafor recounted the various projects and programmes his administration was able to achieve within the 2024 fiscal year beating his chest as the first market to pay in 100 percent of the traders stallage or IGR into the state government coffers.
According to him, we traders of Nkpor Main Market are very cooperative with the authorities. We comply with every directive given from both the state government and Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) especially when we see the tax payers money at work considering the numerous projects carried out by Governor Chukwuma Soludo in different sectors of the State.
Narrating an ugly incident of fraud in the market by a fraudulent P.O.S. operator, Okafor said that the market leadership has decided that commercial POS operators must be registered with the authorities and each operator stationed in a particular place so that fraudulent transactions can be checkmated or traced.
He further advised traders to be watchful and vigilant as the rush for Christmas yuletide sales and buying intensifies because many shop lifters and thieves will flood the market disguised as buyers whereas they came to the market with ulterior motives.
* Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
HON. MARK OKOYE’S WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE IN ECONOMIC GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT EARNED HIM RECENT APPOINTMENT….. ANAOCHA MAYOR
By Chidimma Okoye :
The Mayor of Anaocha LGA Hon. Rome Ibekwe has eulogised the wealth of experience gathered by Hon. Mark Okoye during his days as the Anambra State Commissioner of Economic Planning and Budget, his position as the DG and CEO of Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA) as part of the feathers on his cap that has earned him the recent appointment as DG/CEO of South East Development Commission.
In his congratulatory message, Hon. Ibekwe said that it is a well deserved appointment saying that he is optimistic that his professionalism and leadership skills will make a great impact in the development of the South East region of Nigeria.
He said that Hon. Mark Okoye has the skill and track record of proven results which will fuel his desire in promoting infrastructural development and sustainable economic growth in the South East.
According to him, the administration of Hon. Okoye will address the pressing challenges of the region for a more secure and prosperous future.
“Congratulations Hon. Mark Okoye, keep up your high standard,” he said.
*Chidimma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
LAW WEEK: LEGAL PRACTITIONERS TASKED TO EXPLORE AI TOOLS FOR SPEEDY JUSTICE DELIVERY
By Uzo Ugwunze/Gloria Anaeze :
The Chairman, Idemili North Local Government Area, Chief Stanley Nkwoka has advised legal practitioners to embrace and adapt to the opportunities provided by the advent of Artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance justice delivery if they want to be relevant in the modern world where science, ICT, AI and Robotics have come to stay.
Nkwoka stated this during the Nigerian Bar Association Law Week held in Ogidi. He encouraged legal practitioners to keep updating their knowledge in all spheres to enable them dispense and deliver justice efficiently and effectively
NBA Idemili Branch Chairman, Mrs Chidi B. Nnaji (Esq) in her welcome address said that the theme “TechLaw: Navigating AI’s Impact on the Legal Profession” was necessary because AI technologies in the future will either empower a legal practitioner or replaces him or her.
Dr. Rapuluchukwu E. Nduka, former NBA National Publicity Secretary, delivered a keynote lecture highlighting the positive impact of AI on legal practice. He cited benefits such as enhanced legal research, cost savings, increased efficiency, and improved decision-making. AI tools also provide predictive analytics, automate repetitive tasks, and offer 24/7 client support through chatbots and virtual assistants.said Dr. Nduka.
Sylvester Eze, former NBA Chairman Idemili Branch, emphasized the importance of embracing AI in the legal profession. Citing the International Bar Association’s 2023 report, he warned that lawyers who fail to adapt to AI will become obsolete. Eze also stressed the need for lawyers to ensure transparency in AI-generated documents and to continuously update their knowledge of AI.
Highlight of the Law Week included the presentation of a laptop and a National NBA Prize to Barr Emilia Mbakwe. Awards were also given to notable individuals, including Justice Alexus O. Okuma and Dr. Rapuluchukwu E. Nduka.
* Ugwunze and Anaeze are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *
PRESIDENT GENERALS OF COMMUNITIES, TRADITIONAL RULERS, OTHER MULTI-SECTORAL STAKEHOLDERS UNITE IN ANAMBRA TO ADDRESS GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
By Chidimma Okoye :
In commemoration of the 2024 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) held in Awka, the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme and International IDEA, organized a conference in Awka with the theme,“Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls”.
The event brought together stakeholders from across the state to deliberate on strategies to curb GBV.
Speaking at the conference, the Anambra State Project Coordinator for RoLAC, Josephine Onah, identified poverty, gender inequality, early and forced marriages, and harmful cultural practices such as widowhood rites and girl-child disinheritance as key drivers of violence against women and girls. She lamented that the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, passed in 2018, has not significantly reduced the prevalence of GBV in the state.
“Despite legislative efforts, violence against women and girls persists due to entrenched cultural norms, stereotypes, and systemic inequality. We must go beyond laws to address these deep-seated issues,” she said.
The Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, described the conference as a statewide initiative to position Anambra State as a leader in addressing gender-based violence and advancing gender equity.
Traditional rulers, represented by the Traditional Ruler of Ifitedunu, Dr. Emeka Ilouno, emphasized the importance of granting women their rightful place in society. “The era of relegating women to the background is over. Men must respect women’s rights and exercise self-control, especially during conflicts”.
The State Commander, National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Mrs. Ibadin Judith Chukwu, called on survivors of violence to speak out, assuring them of the agency’s support, noting that silence perpetuates the cycle of abuse and urged communities to work collectively to combat the issue.
The conference was described as a significant step toward achieving the goals of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action as the world approaches Beijing +30.
It produced a 14-point communique with key resolutions aimed at addressing GBV in Anambra State. These include the dissemination of simplified versions of the VAPP Law and Child Rights Act, increase support for sensitization campaigns, establishment of more Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARCs), and the discouragement of out-of-court settlements in GBV cases.
Other recommendations include the creation of shelters for survivors, the establishment of juvenile correction centers, and enhanced multi-sectoral collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations, and traditional institutions.
The event concluded with a collective commitment by all participants to implement the communique and work toward eliminating GBV in Anambra State, fostering a safer and more inclusive society for women and girls.
Participants included 16 traditional rulers, commissioners, representatives of government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, town union leaders, women leaders, youth leaders, civil society organizations, persons with disabilities, and the media.
*ChidimmaChidimmais of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
OBOSI TOWN SET TO WITNESS FIRST TRADE FAIR AND YOUTH CONFERENCE
By Chiedu Uche Okoye :
The First Trade Fair and Youth Conference in the ancient Obosi kingdom, organized by Obiamaka Ajegbo, a lawyer and Amb. Iyke Okoma Foundation, will take place on December 22 and 23, 2024 inside the cavernous Obosi town hall and on its premises.
The maiden Obosi Trade Fair is designed to expose the youths to innovations in diverse areas(business and technology) and equip them with entrepreneurial skills and knowledge, which they can leverage to realize their potentials and make headways in their endeavours.
More so, it is expected that the youths’ participation in the trade fair would bestir them from their lethargic and complacent state and compel them to seek new ways of earning their livelihoods.
Regarding the youth conference, which would take place simultaneously with the trade fair at Obosi town hall, it is aimed at re-moulding the character of the youths, who would become leaders in the future.
And they would be taught to imbibe such virtues as perseverance, honesty, truthfulness, charity, and holiness.
Infusing hope in the youths, telling them not to abandon their dreams, and advising them to shun anti-social acts formed the basis for organizing the youth conference, too.
During the two-day event, which would feature two events, there would be talent show performance, skill and trade display, technology innovation teaching, and networking.
*Chiedu is of the Ministry Of Information, Anambra State