News

FEDPOLY OKO RECTOR TO SPEAK AT AMTY AWARDS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

Rector Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Engr.Dr Francisca Unoma Nwafulugo has been confirmed as Keynote Speaker for the 3rd edition of the AMTY Awards slated to hold on December 29, 2023.

Director of Media and Communications, AMTY Awards, Dr Odogwu Emeka, in a press statement on Monday in Awka, revealed the theme for the edition as “Gbakotanu Ka anyi Dozie Obodo Dike” (Come Together Let’s Build the land of the Great).

He said the event will be holding at the Stanel Dome, Awka and promises to honor Anambrarians that have continued to blaze the trail in various fields of human endeavor.

Speaking about the keynote speaker, Odogwu described Dr. Nwafulugo as a respected academician whose belief in the progress of our state is unwavering.

The statement reads in part, “Engr Dr Francisca Unoma Nwafulugo was until her appointment as rector, Federal Polytechnic Oko, a Chief lecturer at the Chemical Engineering Department of Kaduna Polytechnic.

“She attended the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) Enugu where she obtained Higher National Diploma (HND)

“She did PGD and later went ahead to obtain Masters degree and PhD all in Chemical Engineering.

“Engr Nwafulugo is a member of various professional bodies and associations including Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN), Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSCHE).

“She is a member of Association of Professional Women Engineers (APWEN), Waste Management Society of Nigeria (WAMSON) and Women in Technical Education and Employment (WITED).

“She is a fellow of eight professional bodies including Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSChE), Institute of Oil Gas Research and Hydrocarbon studies (FIOGR)A

“She was appointed Rector Federal Polytechnic oko in 2019 and was the first female rector of the institution in over 40 years of its existence.”

FUEL SUBSIDY-INDUCED PALLIATIVES WILL END THIS YEAR (2023) IN ANAMBRA STATE

Anambra State Government wishes to remind our people that the payment of the non-taxable N12,000 Cash Awards, subsequently increased this December to N20,000, and distribution of Rice Palliatives were majorly aimed at cushioning the immediate economic hardship occasioned by the removal of the fuel subsidy.

The payment of the Cash Awards to government workers and pensioners will last for four (4) months only – September to December 2023 – as earlier announced by the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo CFR.

The Rice Palliative, procured with the N2 billion loan from the Federal Government has been shared across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State, all the communities and down to “umunna” or kindreds.

These processes have been clinically executed, the objectives met and Ndi Anambra are happy.

In the light of the above, it’s important to emphasize that the payment of Cash Awards and distribution of Rice Palliatives will end by December 31, 2023.

This does not negate other more impactful and sustainable welfare policies which Governor Soludo has thoughtfully and preemptively emplaced to leverage the quality of living. They include free education, free antenatal and delivery services, tax holiday for petty traders and artisans worth below N100,000, youth empowerment with N2b and another one to commence soon, employment of additional teachers and medical personnel, etc.

We will continue to show the way as the Light of the Nation.

Wishing you all Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year.

Signed

*SIR PAUL NWOSU*

Commissioner for Information

December 20, 2023

ORUMBA NORTH TC CHAIRMAN LAUDS GOV. SOLUDO ON RICE DISTRIBUTION

By Chioma Ezeiru / Charity Okechukwu :

Orumba North Transition Committee Chairman, Sir Ogochukwu Ekwueme has lauded Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his impactful palliative measures to the people of Anambra State especially the vulnerable and less privileged.

Sir Ekwueme, who made the commendation in an interview with information officers at the local government secretariat, Ajalli, said that Gov. Charles Soludo is God sent to the people of Anambra State especially at this critical time.

The Orumba North TC Chairman noted that “It is worthy of emulation that at this difficult time across the country, the Anambra State governor, Professor Charles Soludo, in his kind and humane nature, has approved the distribution of about 200,000 bags of 10kg rice to the poorest of the poor across the length and breadth of the state to help cushion the effects of subsidy removal.

“We give kudos to the governor. In Orumba North, we have received about 7,500 bags of rice already and still expecting the remaining 2000 bags before we begin distribution to various wards and communities. And we will not distribute them until we have the list of recipients from the various wards, which we will vet and ensure that the rice gets to only those it is actually meant for,” he added.

Sir Ekwueme also stated that measures have been put in place by his leadership to avoid irregularities and ensure transparent and appropriate disbursement of the palliative.

“Due to our experience in the coconut and palm tree seedlings disbursement, we have sat and put together measures that will ensure fair selection of beneficiaries and equitable distribution of the palliative. We have formed supervisory committee at the local government level which I am a member and also supervisory committee at the ward levels which constitutes the councillors, presidents-general, clergy men, civil society organisations, etc for proper monitoring, supervision and distribution.

“Also in the beneficiary selection process, we are working through the umunnas. Each village already have their umunna in place. The umunnas know their people and know those members who are actually deserving of the palliative.

“This is how the list is generated. Every local government has its peculiarities but our job is to key into the solution mantra, ensure that it gets to the right beneficiaries and the local government is doing a good job. Each ward is expected to receive no fewer than 400-650 bags of rice and we have about 19 wards in Orumba North Local Government Area alone.

“This is massive and first of its kind. It is a good and welcome development. We are really grateful to Gov. Soludo for putting smiles on the faces of our people in this festive season. At least, our people are assured of rice for this yuletide celebration. Ndi Anambra should give him their full support as he takes the state to enviable heights.”

Speaking further, Sir Ekwueme described the state government palliative measures as all encompassing and transformational.

According to him, the Soludo administration is determined to bring dividends of democracy to Ndi Anambra especially the grassroots through provision of free education from nursery to junior secondary school(J.S.S 3), permitting only N5000 school fees for Senior Secondary Schools; free ante natal care and delivery services for expectant mothers in the state, youth empowerment, massive road construction, employment of teachers and health workers.

The Orumba-North TC boss expressed gratitude to God Almighty and Gov. Soludo for the privilege to serve the people of Orumba North.

“I thank God and Gov. Soludo for this opportunity to serve my people. I am a man of service. I like to help and assist people, it is in my nature and background.

“We have been here for about 15 months. It has been a challenging and tough one because governance is not easy especially in Nigeria. But I believe that we have been able to make some positive impact in the lives of our people. They should keep on supporting us by paying their taxes and levies as at when due to enable us generate funds and carry out some necessary projects in the local government area,” he said.

_Chioma and Charity are of the Ministry of Information_

GOV. SOLUDO DOLE OUT CHRISTMAS PACKAGE TO SOLUTION FC PLAYERS AND OFFICIALS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo has doled out Christmas package to players and officials of Anambra State club, Solution FC.

The Christmas package is in the form of 50kg bags of Rice each to officials and players of the Nigeria National League (NNL) side.

The package was handed out to the players and officials at the Conference Room of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission (ASSDC) under the supervision of the ASSDC Chairman, Patrick Estate Onyedum.

Addressing the players on behalf of the Governor, Mr. Onyedum stated that the package to the players and officials of the club is part of the welfare by the state government under Gov. Soludo to motivate them in their NNL adventure towards finishing on a high note and possibly earning promotion to the top tier, Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) next season.

Onyedum called on players and officials to work on crucial areas in the team such as the striking department and ensure that they score more goals and win matches both home and away in subsequent league matches which is pivotal to the success of the team. The Sports Administrator re-emphasized the support of the present administration towards the success of the Solution FC project.

Also speaking, the member representing Nnewi North Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Sports, Anambra State House of Assembly (ANSHA), Hon. Augustine Ike commended the players and officials for their effort and results recorded thus far in the NNL. The lawmaker affirmed that as part of his oversight function, he can make a case to put Solution FC in social status in law with specific law addressing Solution FC matters as well as increasing the budgetary allocation of the team but all that could be achieved with good results by the team.

Hon. Ike informed that he will from now follow both training sessions and match proceedings of the club in the NNL while urging the players and officials to enhance the team’s outlook performance wise starting with the game against Crown FC of Ogbomosho in Match Day 6 this weekend.

In a vote of thanks, the Team Manager, Augustine Okoye thanked Governor Soludo for his support and motivation for the club. He also thanked Hon. Onyedum for ensuring a smooth and seamless operation administration wise in various aspects of club management while also thanking the Chairman House Committee on Sports for his interest in the affairs of the club. He stated that the technical crew led by Coach Uche Okagbue will work assiduously in enhancing the performance and outlook of the team.

Solution FC which came into existence in the third quarter of the 2023 year is currently playing in Conference B of the ongoing 2023/2024 Nigeria National League (NNL).

UNIVERSITY AUTONOMY: FG INTERFERENCE IMPEDING DEVT OF PUBLIC VARSITIES – UNIZIK DON

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

A university don, Prof Nkemdilim Nnoyelu has lamented overbearing interference of governments and its regulatory agencies or bodies on the autonomy of public Universities in the country.

He identified such interference as major factor hampering development of university education system in Nigeria.

Nnoyelu, a professor of Industrial Sociology and Industrial Relations stated this while delivering the 98 inaugural lecturer of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State titled: “From classroom teachers and researchers to union activists: The predicament of academics in Nigerian public Universities”.

He described the practice of Ministries of Education and the National Universities Commission (NUC) determining curriculum benchmark as strange to global standards.

He canvassed review of NUC mandate, including allowing Universities liberty to determine their content, syllabus and curriculum without being restrained by regulation and standardizations.

He said, “Autonomy of the university is sacrosanct. The university should be insulated from government interference to enjoy academic freedom in terms of content, curriculum and syllabus.

“The university should not be under the overbearing of the Ministry of Education or any other authority. They should be allowed to develop their own programmes.

“Professors should be allowed to teach what they want to teach and not to be given benchmark, all in the name of uniformity of standard.

“Intellectuals should be allowed to flourish and blossom. It’s a major struggle. That’s why university is called “mahadum” in Igbo language.

“NUC affects this autonomy to a very large extent. The whole system should be adjusted and reviewed especially in terms of the powers the Commission weilds.

“The accreditation system is a ruise. What’s it doing for us? Even though they point to global standard, but we know the reality on ground.”

While lamenting the over 7years closure of universities in the last 31 years occasioned by strike actions, the inuguaral lecturer called for institutionalisation of collective bargaining and implementation of agreements with unions as panecea for reoccurring industrial disputes in the education system.

Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Charles Esimone, while decorating Nnoyelu with the lecture medal, commended him for speaking truth to power at the same time proffering solutions to challenges facing the nation’s University system.

Esimone, represented by his deputy in-charge of academics, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu explained that the culture of inaugural lectures has been sustained to promote academic and research excellence in the University.

CHRISTMAS: ANAMBRA IS SAFE, WELCOME HOME, NDI ANAMBRA!

By Christian ABURIME :

It is that time of the year again when the world is caught up in frenzied activities of holidays and celebration.

Naturally, there are sober reflections as well as great expectations at this time, as one year draws to a close and another beckons.

Everyone is preoccupied with diverse passions, emotions, thoughts and feelings.

What’s yours? Fears of insecurity? Leave them behind, Ndi Anambra! This Christmas, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, welcomes you home with open arms of assurances and unyielding commitment to security of lives and property

Anambra is no longer a dread zone, but a joyous haven embraced by peace, joy and goodwill this season and beyond

As you are making preparations for travels and celebrations, it is possible that you remember those dark days in Anambra State when kidnappers ruled and fear of unknown gunmen shadowed every step, and you panicked. Calm down, because those dark days are gone for good in our state.

Governor Soludo has drastically reversed the security situation in Anambra State. He raised a shield, establishing the Ministry of Homeland Affairs dedicated to security, re-strategizing with all organs of state security agencies, and empowering vigilant warriors – your own neighbours, trained and ready as Anambra Vigilantes.

Now, surveillance eyes are everywhere watching, joint security squads are patrolling the streets, and criminal shadows are fading.

But security remains a collective responsibility. Communities, not just constables, must stand guard. Traditional rulers, Presidents General, and you, Ndi Anambra, must join hands with the government and security agencies. When this is done, information flows, intelligence is gathered, crimes wither, and trust blossoms. “When you see something, you say something”

Thanks to the proactive leadership actions by Governor Soludo, streets once choked by touts can breathe freely again. Upper Iweka, Onitsha’s heart, now beats with newfound rhythm, free from the grip of fear. Christmas beckons and joy fills the air. Amidst the festive euphoria, Governor Soludo’s promise echoes: “A peaceful, crime-free celebration for all!” As security forces are standing ever vigilant and our roads are gleaming free of potholes, festive cheer will flow unfettered.

Even the traffic will be dancing to a safer, smoother rhythm. The watchful eyes of Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency, ARTMA, will be guiding the traffic flow, while law enforcers will be standing guard against festive frenzy. Pedestrians can stroll freely, merrymakers can relish carefree celebrations, and Christmas markets can shimmer with delight day and night, untouched by shadows of fear.

But, should misfortune strike, fear not. Ambulances will be humming reassuringly close by, ready to respond, care and comfort. Our medical heroes will be standing on call, ensuring every heart beats with joy. So come, Ndi Anambra, come home without a doubt. Bring your laughter without a fear. Governor Soludo has put all necessary, detailed measures of security of lives and property in place, hand in hand with our security agencies and our local communities.

Together, we will celebrate a merry Christmas and a happy New Year bathed in peace, suffused in joy, and glowing in the warmth of homecoming.

Season’s Greetings, Ndi Anambra!

Welcome home!!

ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT URGES CITIZENS TO DISREGARD THE PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY ASWAMA, RESTRICTING VEHICULAR AND HUMAN MOVEMENTS ON DECEMBER 16TH, FOR MONTHLY SANITATION EXERCISE

The Government of Anambra State wishes to bring to the notice of the general public that the Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise earlier announced to hold on December 16, 2023, restricting Vehicular and human movements by the Anambra State Waste Management Authority, ASWAMA, was not authorized by the State Government.

Consequently, the state government is urging the citizens to disregard the announcement, and should please go about their normal daily businesses.

The government, however, apologizes for any inconvenience the misleading announcement may have caused the general public.

*Christian Aburime*

Press Secretary To The Governor

December 14, 2023.

NOC SAYS 2023 IS A SUCCESSFUL YEAR FOR SPORTS IN NIGERIA

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has reflected on the outgoing year, 2023, describing it as a successful year for sports development in the country.

Addressing its Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, the President, Engr. Habu Gumel, OON, FNIM, FNSE, addressed the esteemed colleagues and members of the Olympic Family in his report for the year 2022, highlighting the Committee’s achievements and plans for the future.

Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his pleasure and privilege to address the Olympic Family, acknowledging the support of all members, including the Executive Committee, and Executive Board.

The NOC president particularly paid tribute to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The IOC member used the opportunity provided by the AGM to appeal to all stakeholders – the Federation presidents, and the Ministry of Sports to rally route ensure strong participation in three Major Games in 2024, Youth Winter Games, the African Games and the Olympics.

‘’We need a new result at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games; by improving on the 1996 Atlanta Games, where Nigeria won two Gold medals.

This was the Games the Chioma Ajunwa won gold through her 7.12-metre long jump and the gold by our soccer ‘Dream Team’ led by Nwankwo Kanu.

He also recognized the esteemed Patrons, Trustees, and members of various Commissions and Committees for their contributions in achieving the Committee’s goals.

He reflected on the activities of 2022, emphasizing the Committee’s commitment to uniting the Olympic Family and promoting the ideals of the Olympic Movement.

Gumel, who is an honorary life member of the International Olympic Committee highlighted the successful acquisition of five hectares of land for the building of the Committee’s Secretariat in Abuja, a long-awaited achievement.

He also mentioned the completion of the Olympafrica section of the Amuwo Odofin project in Lagos, a significant step towards the development of sports facilities.

To support the activation of Olympic Movement activities, the Committee reconstituted various Commissions, with a focus on involving members from the National Federations.

”Despite financial constraints, the President expressed satisfaction with the dedication and hard work of some Commissions in achieving their objectives, ” Gumel said

The President welcomed Senator John Enoh, the energetic Minister for Sports Development, and expressed his joy and honour in presenting the Report of Activities for the year 2022.

The report acknowledged the XXII Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

The President mentioned the successful visit of the Queen’s Baton Relay to Nigeria, marking the seventh consecutive visit since 2002.

The Baton’s journey included stops at various locations, including Abuja, Jabi Lake, and the British High Commission, before departing Nigeria. It was a moment of pride for the Olympic Family to witness the Baton’s presence in their country.

The report discussed the Gather Prepare & Sustain (GAPS) programme, a crucial initiative by the Commonwealth Games Federation for Para athletes.

Nigeria was among the 13 African Commonwealth countries benefiting from the programme. However, the report also mentioned the unfortunate passing of coach Patrick Anaeto during the programme, a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes and coaches.

The highlight of the report was the impressive performance of Team Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games, winning a total of 12 Gold, nine Silver, and 14 Bronze medals.

The President praised the athletes for their dedication and hard work, placing Nigeria in the seventh position in the overall medals table.

The report then shifted focus to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games, where Nigeria participated in Ski Sports. The qualification pathway was discussed, with one athlete successfully qualifying through the continental representation quota.

It was also noted that Dr Marian Mkpo Odun received a scholarship to attend the IOC Diploma Course in Sports Medicine, contributing to the development of Nigerian sports medicine.

Other events, such as the celebration of Olympic Day, the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace, and various seminars and workshops, were also highlighted in the report, underscoring the Committee’s commitment to the growth and development of Nigerian sports.

The President Engr. Habu Gumel expressed his gratitude to the Olympic Family for their support and contributions.

He extended his appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Grand Patron of NOC, for their unwavering support.

He wished the General Assembly productive deliberations and extended warm wishes for the season.

This report signifies the remarkable achievements of Nigerian sports in 2022 and sets the foundation for future endeavours in Olympic sports in the country.

As part of the highlights of the event, the Account Audit firm of Yerima & Associates was re-appointed for another term. ##

Tony Nezianya (PRO NOC)

MINISTRY OF YOUTH PROPOSES PARTNERSHIP WITH MEDIA HOUSES

By Ifeoma Aniagbado :

The Anambra Ministry of Youth Development has proposed partnering with media houses to promote the 1YOUTH 2SKILLS program.

In a meeting held with all the radio stations in the State, the ministry discussed collaboration modalities for publicizing this youth empowerment initiative.

Addressing the media representatives at his office in Government House Awka, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba, emphasized the ministry’s goal of establishing an active information system to raise awareness about the program among indigenous and non-indigenous youths in the state.

This awareness campaign aimed at mitigating insecurity, curb involvement in street activities, cultism, and robbery.

Mr. Agha Mba underscored Gov. Soludo’s manifesto, highlighting the significance of security as a top priority.

He stressed the need for youths to possess multiple skills in response to the country’s current situation, affirming that the state government’s commitment to ensuring that every Anambra youth acquired at least two skills, thereby, fostering self-employment opportunities.

The Commissioner mentioned the ministry’s intention to collaborate with various elements essential for propelling the state toward a more livable and prosperous environment, Heemphasizing that partnering with the media would significantly increase youth participation and publicize the program among citizens.

He also said that 5,000 youths benefited from the pilot phase, with an expectation of 10,000 youths to benefit in two batches. Stressing the importance of collaboration, urging media representatives to outline their capacity to train youths in specific skill areas, facilitating a targeted approach.

Commending the media representatives for their attendance, Mr. Agha Mba highlighted their pivotal role as agents in propagating the 1YOUTH 2SKILLS program across the State.

Responding, the media representatives expressed their willingness to collaborate with the ministry in publicizing the state government program, pledging to discuss this partnership with their respective managements, devising modalities for effective collaboration.

Among those in attendance were Christopher Molokwu, Wazobia FM; Franklin Ebuka, Ogene FM; Amarachi Ekwueme, Blaze FM; Judy Nwabueze, ABS; Nelson Nwaenyi, Ebe Onadi FM; Monalisa Uzowulu, City Radio, and Chioma Chukwuemeka from Radio Sapientsa.

*Ifeoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

WOMEN AFFAIRS COMMISSIONER SEEKS MORE SENSITISATION ON GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

By Ukpa Ewa :

The Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo has called for a broader sensitisation of women on gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria as women and girls are mostly victims.

The commissioner, who received members of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Women Committee, Anambra State Chapter in her office in Awka said there was need to sensitize people on gender based violence.

Mrs. Obinabo who spoke extensively on the ill treatment meted on women, advised parents to make out adequate time for their children while urging them to go back to the good old days of making inquiries before giving out their daughters in marriage.

Speaking during the courtesy call, the NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs. Franklyn Onyekachi commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs for being in the fore front of the fight against gender based violence.

She further called for strict implementation and enforcement of Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.

The women who were marking the 16 days of activism on GBV which has as its theme “Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls” also paid a courtesy visit to the Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Sir Chido Obidiegwu.

*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State