News

FEDERAL LAWMAKER RECEIVES ACCOLADES FOR OUTSTANDING ONE-YEAR STEWARDSHIP

By Ukpa Ewa :

There was unmitigated flow of commendations Saturday, 26th of October 2024 at Emmaus House Awka, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State when the lawmaker representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency, Prof. Lilian Orogbu, presented her one-year stewardship to constituents

The presentation was made at the event organized by the United Nations Women/National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) step-down programme in Anambra State.

The event brought together representatives from various groups, including clergy, traditional rulers, youths and women organizations, and stakeholders from all 34 wards in Awka to bear witness of the track records of one of the best lawmakers the constituency has ever produced.

Articulating her achievements within one year in office, Prof. Lilian Orogbu disclosed that some of her achievements include reconstruction of classroom blocks at Ezioka Community Secondary School, Agulu Awka Primary School, and Community Primary School, Ikwodiaku.

She further dazzle the public by including the construction of a proposed mini stadium in Achalla, Awka North LGA, and provision of solar power at two health centers in Ezinato and Urum, provision of grants for small business owners, empowerment of 200 widows with grinding and sewing machines, and distribution of fertilizers as some of the few-mentioned projects in the constituency.

The lawmaker who said she secured employment for some constituents and sponsored legislative bill for the establishment of a college of entrepreneurship studies in Awka insisted that legislative work is beyond yes or nay chorus in the chamber.

The ebullient lawmaker and a professor of international repute, attributed her success to the support of her constituents, her late husband’s family, and her dedication to serving the people while describing the 10th National Assembly as “gender-friendly” and expressed her commitment to evolving policies and programs that would benefit her constituents.

In her assessment of the current state government under Prof. Charles Soludo, Orogbu expressed concerns about the insecurities in the state, calling for more focused efforts as he commend him for the road networks in the state.

In his goodwill message, the United Nations representative, Mr. Patrick Nnadozie Udefuna, emphasized the importance of enhancing women’s political representation in Nigeria, citing their proven abilities as leaders and agents of change.

In her remarks, Awka Development Union Women’s Wing, Oge Ekweozor ( Esq),commended the lawmaker, Prof Orogbu for bringing the conference to women in a time like this. She said women participation in politics can be increased via a viable committee and by voting them into elective office during election.

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Prof. Orogbu by the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) Youths, Awka.

Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

UKE COMMUNITY CALLS ON GOVERNMENT TO RESUSCITATE DILAPIDATED ROADS, EASE MOVEMENT OF AGRONOMIC PRODUCTS

By Chris Chikelue :

The President General (PG) of Uke, Idemili North Local Government Area (LGA), Chief Peter Onyejegbu has echoed the voice of his people in calling on the Federal and State Government to come to their aid and fix some major roads which are in bad condition.

He said that repairing the roads will boost the movement and transportation of agronomic products from the area tobotger parts of the state.

Chief Onyejegbu made this plea while discussing with newsmen on the development of the community and how best to deliver dividends of democracy to the grassroots vis-a-vis the Uke community and it’s environ.

He said, “Uke is in Anambra Central Senatorial Zone of the State. It has Ideani, Abatete, Ogidi, Umuoji, Ojoto and Nnobi as its neighbours and our traditional ruler is His Royal Highness, Igwe (Surv) Charles Agbala, the Oranyelu III of Uke”.

Chief Onyejegbu commended his people and said they are hard working, peace loving and predominantly traders, farmers and Captains of Industries.

Discussing the major public celebration of the community, Chief Onyejegbu said, “we celebrate Uzo Iyi Festival every Uka Afor in April and this help to bring the people together to discuss and seek ways of implementing dividends of development in the community”.

He, then, lamented the condition of major roads in the area urging, “both the State & Federal Government to come help us fix our roads especially the Mpia- Ugwuagbugbana -Eke Uke- Igwe Ileka Road.

“This will help to solve the problem of gridlocks our people are always experiencing at the Eke-Agu Abatete junction every festive period.

“Though we as a community through the help of good spirited individuals have always tried to maintain the roads to some extent, to make sure we are not cut-off entirely”.

The PG nevertheless pleaded with his kin men to also support every developmental projects that is being carried out by the town union executive and in extension the state government.

MEFOR URGES JOURNALISTS TO UPHOLD ETHICS, PROFESSIONALISM

By Obinwa Chikaodili / Henrietta Madichie :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has called on media practitioners to uphold the highest standard of ethics and professionalism, emphasizing the need for fair, accurate, and objective reporting to strengthen their credibility as society’s watchdogs.

Dr. Mefor made this appeal on October 25, during a courtesy visit by the state chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), led by its chairperson, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejirika in his office at the Jerome Udorji Secretariat, Awka.

While highlighting the press critical role in ensuring effective governance and promoting democratic dividends, the commissioner urged journalists to prioritize Anambra State in their reporting.

According to him, the achievements of this government are underreported, underscoring the media’s responsibility to shape public perception and spotlight the successes of the administration.

In her remarks, Comrade Ifejika expressed gratitude to the commissioner for the warm reception, reaffirming NAWOJ’s commitment to upholding ethical journalism and pledged the association’s cooperation with the state government to drive meaningful progress.

She was accompanied on the visit by some members of NAWOJ.

*Chikodili, Henrietta are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

DR. MEFOR COMMENDS TECH INITIATIVE IN ANAMBRA STATE

By Uche Igboeli/ Henrietta madichie/ Azuka Nnabufe :

Dr. Law Mefor, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, visited the Innovation Solution District, Government House in Awka to champion the upcoming Innovation Week.

In a discussion with Chinwe Okoli, Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Dr. Mefor praised the initiative to organize the upcoming Tech Project, emphasizing the significance of the Solution Innovation/Tech Week, which aims to leverage technology and innovation to train and empower the youth of Anambra, particularly in gaining vital digital skills for employment.

The commissioner assured that his Ministry is committed to partnering with the initiative through extensive mobilization and awareness efforts. This will involve engaging church leaders, chieftaincy councils, and community representatives to encourage youth participation in the event.

The Special Assistant elaborated on the goals of the Innovation/Tech Week, which is designed to bring together tech innovators and communities from around the world to Anambra State. The event will focus on discussions surrounding ICT and digitization.

Additionally, Okoli announced a competition as part of the week’s activities, where the winner will receive a prize of N1million. The event is set to commence on November 25 and will span an entire week.

Mr. Ikechukwu Anajemba, a tech expert, highlighted the various programs included in the district drive, which encompass digital learning, productivity tools, graphic design, website development, and coding. These learning tracks have previously demonstrated significant success in supporting entrepreneurs and startups in their business growth.

He urged the youth of Anambra to take advantage of this free initiative set forth by the governor, encouraging them to apply and participate actively.

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

ANAMBRA PRIORITIZES ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, SAYS EDUCATION COMMISSIONER

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma- Udeh has emphasised that the state government is working relentlessly to ensure the state’s academic excellence remains unrivaled.

Speaking at the 2024/2025 WAEC and Education Stakeholders Committee meeting held at the Ministry of Education’s Conference Hall in Awka, the commissioner highlighted the state’s continuous efforts to sustain and surpass its academic achievements.

Professor Chuma-Udeh assured the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) team, led by Branch Controller Mr. Uduak-Akpan, that the ministry remains committed to excellence, stating, “We are not resting on our oars.” She outlined strategic initiatives aimed at further enhancing Anambra’s academic reputation, demonstrating the ministry’s proactive approach to education.

According to her, “one of such initiatives involves the recruitment and deployment of qualified teachers, particularly from remote areas like Anambra East, to address the shortage of educators and ensure students in these regions have uninterrupted access to education throughout the academic year.

“With the recent addition of 8,115 teachers, the state has now exceeded both the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation( UNESCO) and national teacher-student ratio guidelines, a significant milestone,” she noted.

Professor Chuma-Udeh also pointed to several key programs, including the annual teacher’s boot camp, periodic teacher examinations, competency-based capacity development programs, and incentives such as the payment of three years’ counterpart funding for the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

These initiatives, she said, are part of the current administration’s commitment to maintaining top-tier performance in the education sector.

The commissioner underscored the importance of continuous professional development, stating that these programs are designed to equip teachers with the latest advancements in pedagogy and help them refine their skills.

Earlier, the WEAC facilitator, Mrs. Genevieve Chukwudi Nwoko, guided the committee through an in-depth analysis of the various factors contributing to declining student performance, while also offering recommendations to enhance student achievement

The meeting was attended by several education stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, and the Director of Schools, Mrs. Ifeoma Onyeneke, amongst others.

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

ACTDA DEMOLISHES SHANTIES, MAKESHIFT SHOPS TO CLEAR MAJOR ROADS IN AWKA

By Ukpa Ewa :

The Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) has conducted a significant demolition exercise targeting illegal structures and makeshift shops obstructing free flow of traffic in key areas of Awka, Anambra State. The move is part of the agency’s urban regeneration efforts to restore the city’s master plan and expand critical road networks.

Addressing Journalists at the demolition sites in Awka, ACTDA’s Deputy Commander of Enforcement, Mr. Ukachukwu Okonkwo who led the exercise said that the first phase of the demolition took place at Nnamdi Azikiwe Avenue by Igwebuike axis, near the old Nipost structure.

“This is a major tarred road, but part of it were illegally occupied by individuals who built shops and workshops, including a carpentry workshop producing upholstery. We deemed it necessary to open up the road,” Okonkwo explained. He added that once cleared, the full size of the road was revealed, allowing for easier movement of vehicles.

Mr. Okonkwo said that the second phase of the exercise was carried out along Abakaliki Street, Club Road, where illegal shops were constructed under high-tension power lines. “These land grabbers initially set up makeshift shops but later started building permanent structures under the power lines, which is not only illegal but also poses serious safety risks.” He noted that several structures were demolished, while others have been marked for further demolition.

Aso, the final area targeted by the operation was in Okpuno, where unauthorized buildings had significantly narrowed a road that should have been about 30 feet wide. “The road had been reduced to less than 10 feet, making it impossible for vehicles to pass through, causing immense hardship to residents,” he said. Residents had filed petitions and sought legal redress, prompting ACTDA to take action and remove the structures.

Mr. Okonkwo clarified that the demolition exercise was part of Awka’s urban regeneration program, aimed at transforming the city into a modern hub comparable to Dubai, in line with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s vision as the initiative was driven by ACTDA Managing Director Mr. Ossy Onuko’s commitment to giving Awka a befitting look and correcting irregularities.

ACTDA has reaffirmed its dedication to enforcing the city’s master plan and promoting sustainable urban development, with ongoing demolitions expected in other areas where illegal structures are obstructing roadways and public spaces.

*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA GOVT, OTHERS HOLD VALEDICTORY SESSION FOR LATE FORMER DEPUTY SPEAKER, HON. OSEKE

By Chisom Okpala :

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo has joined the Anambra State House of Assembly to bid farewell to Late Rt. Hon. Harford Oseke, member who represented Awka South II constituency, Majority Leader of the 5th Assembly and Deputy Speaker of the 6th Assembly.

A valedictory session was held in his honour at the Anambra State House of Assembly Complex Awka.

Commiserating with the Oseke family, Gov. Soludo represented by his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim eulogized the former Deputy Speaker as one whose service as a lawmaker was selfless, a great man who played his role diligently.

According to the governor, We are gathered today to celebrate the life and legacy of an exceptional individual who dedicated his life to the service of his constituency and our great state.

He prayed that his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Ndi Anambra will never be forgotten and his legacy sustained.

In a tribute, the Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somto Udeze described Hon. Oseke as a seasoned legislator who contributed his quota to the development and well-being of his constituents and the state.

Udeze noted that the late lawmaker passed and sponsored bills benefiting the people. Adding the Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye praised Oseke’s wisdom and humility.

A vote of thanks by the family member, hand over of the condolence register to his wife, file past the coffin and tributes from both present and past House of Assembly members formed the highlights of the session.

The deceased wife, his children, extended families, member representing Ihiala federal Constituency, Hon. Paschal Agbodike, Anambra State Head of service, Dr. Theodora Igwegbe, others were present to pay last respect to late Oseke.

*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

SOCIETY NOT KIND TO YOUTHS; YOU ARE ARCHITECT OF YOUR FUTURE, SAYS EDUCATION COMMISSIONER

By Obiageli Nwankwo :

The 2023/2024 Batch C1 and C2 corps members who served at the Ministry of Education paid a farewell visit to Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, the Commissioner for Education, at her office in the State Secretariat Complex, Awka.

During her address to the corps members, Prof. Chuma-Udeh emphasized that society is often harsh on youths, but reminded them that they are the architects of their future, urging them to let go of the expectation that a white-collar job awaits them, stressing the importance of acquiring skills while searching for formal employment.

“Now that you have completed your mandatory one-year service to the nation, don’t assume that the world is easy. You must strive to acquire skills while looking for corporate jobs. Be proactive and stay on the right path—it may be tough, but the benefits last longer,” she advised.

The commissioner also warned them against shortcuts in life, saying that every action has its consequences. “All that glitters is not gold,” she said, encouraging the youth to stay focused on long-term success.

She advised the female corps members to seek partners with potential and build stable families, while reminding the men of their future responsibilities as heads of families, urging them to take life’s challenges head-on.

One of the outgoing corps members, Miss Perpetua Jideuno, expressed gratitude, saying that serving in the ministry had been a valuable experience, particularly in data processing and analysis. She thanked Prof. Chuma-Udeh, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, and Mr. Bayo Omogunwa for their support and guidance during their service year.

*Obiageli is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

SOLUDO IDENTIFIES GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT TO EDUCATION AS ROAD TO PROMISED DUBAI TAIWAN

By David Okpala/Stella Okpala :

The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has identified quality education to children of all class as road to Dubai Taiwan development strategy he promised.

He said this while addressing Ndi Akpo, on a day visit to them, at Akpo Junction, Aguata LGA, on October 19.

Soludo said, “the idea of free education to all had been in me before I became governor.

“The public primary school in my community had 190 pupils 14 years ago when I took over school fees, uniform and other things needed to get educated as a pupil. Lately, I was told that we have over 800 pupils in the school.

“Investing on our children education is the only way we can guarantee sustainable growth and development of this part of the world.

“Some myopic critics thought that Dubai Taiwan we promised are mansions, skyscrapers springing up everywhere in less than 3 years in office or fixing all roads in Anambra State.

“These infrastructure development are good and we are doing all we can within the available resources to fixing them.

“Employment of 8150 teachers in less than 3 years in office is unprecedented. We have never seen it happen in any state of this country.

“The aim is to end the era of schools without teachers. Having employed quality teachers, we profound quality teach mechanism.

“We are building children that will take over from us and build formidable society, even without petroleum deposits.”

According to him, the Taiwan we are talking about today do not have mineral resources such as crude oil, but with education they developed their technology to the top where they are now.

He extolled Ndi Akpo who have been putting their personal resources into education, pleading with them to keep up the tempo.

“The free education from Nursery to Secondary School level, is to close the gap between children of the rich and those of the poor.”

He noted that access to quality education ought to be equal to all, if we must get it right.

The Governor told Ndi Akpo not to worry about Amesi- Akpo-Ogboji Road, that has been bone in their throats, as he is going to award it next month.

“It is a 7.1kilometre road. By this time next year, we will know how far we have gone fixing the road.”

This promise pushed Ndi Akpo to joy galore as everybody jumped up for joy.

The occasion featured commissioning of college road and Comprehensive Health Centre which were constructed by community efforts.

He extolled Ndi Akpo for thinking health, road infrastructure and education facilities.

The Governor promised going to come back to Akpo to commission community driven projects at Community Secondary School Akpo, as soon as they are ready.

He enjoined other communities in Anambra State to emulate Ndi Akpo as they embark on development projects.

Earlier, the President General, Akpo Development Association (ADA), Nze Henry C. Dim while delivering welcome address, enumerated governor’s strives in governance.

On behalf of Ndi Akpo, he pleaded with the governor to accept contesting Guber office come 2025, promising total support of Ndi Akpo.

He emphasized that one good turn, deserves another (Uzo di mma, aga ya ugboro abuo).

The occasion attracted men from all walks of life. Prominent among them include Federal Representative, Aguata Federal Constituency, Engr. Dominic Okafor, Secretary to Anambra State Government (SSG), Prof Solo Chukwulobelu.

Member State House of Assembly, Aguata 1, Mr Anayo Okpalaeke and his counterpart Aguata II, Muobuike Anthony, Commissioner for Works, Engr Ifeanyi Okoma, and Chairman, Aguata LGA, Dr Chibueze Ofobuike.

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

ANAMBRA GOVT ADOPTS SECTOR-WIDE APPROACH TO IMPROVE HEALTHCARE SERVICE

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

The Anambra State Government through the State Ministry of Health has adopted a Sector-Wide Approach to improve healthcare service delivery across the state.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike said,” Few months ago, the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), in collaboration with State Health Ministries and Partners launched the SWAP initiative.

“The aim of this initiative is to ensure that Nigeria’s healthcare system transformed through a comprehensive strategy that is designed to address chronic issues within the health sector”.

He said this at the just concluded AOP 2025 SWAP process meeting in Awka.

“This is the reason we conducted a 2 day Management Committee meeting with all the health implementing partners in the state.’’

Dr. Obidike emphasized the importance of a sector-wide approach to health systems strengthening, noting that the collaborative strategy aims to integrate efforts across various sectors—Government, Private, and Civil Society.

Participants discussed the need for cohesive policies that address health issues not in isolation but as interrelated factors.

“This includes collaboration with sectors like education, finance, and agriculture to tackle social determinants of health.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) announced a new initiative to pool resources, encouraging countries to invest jointly in health systems. This initiative aims to ensure equitable access to healthcare services, especially in underserved regions.”

Successful examples from countries such as Rwanda and Thailand were presented, showcasing how integrating health with other sectors has led to improved health metrics and community resilience.

The Leaders emphasized the role of local communities in shaping health strategies. Community-based approaches ensure that health interventions are culturally relevant and effective.

The summit also highlighted the role of technology in facilitating a sector-wide approach. Innovations in data sharing and telemedicine were cited as crucial tools for enhancing health service delivery.

“As countries grapple with ongoing health challenges, including pandemics and non-communicable diseases, the commitment to a sector-wide approach represents a significant step towards holistic health solutions.

The summit concluded with a call to action for governments, NGOs, and private sectors to prioritize collaboration. The potential benefits of this approach could reshape the landscape of global health, ensuring that no one is left behind.

According to Obidike, Anambra Health Sector under Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration has received massive supports and what his government has achieved within few years in office is incomparable since the creation of the state.

The Commissioner thanked UNAIDS, WHO, UNICEF and other partners for their contributions in healthcare sector of the state.

*Chukwudi is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State