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Tag: Anambra State

  • Odoh seeks promotion of peace at UNIZIK

    Odoh seeks promotion of peace at UNIZIK

    By Ovat Abeng

    The newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State, Prof.Benard Ifeanyi Odoh, has urged the University community to prioritize the promotion of  peace and development in the Institution.

    Odoh, who’s appeal was contained in a press release signed and made available to Journalists shortly after a World press conference, held in Awka on Friday, by his Personal Assistant, Media and Publicity, Mr Charles Otu, also urged the media practitioners in the state to join sue to ensure that the University attained it International best practices.

    The VC noted that the sensitive nature of journalism requires being circumspect and discreet in certain issues.

    He said recognising the limits and ethics that govern the profession is critical to ensuring that journalists’ report is accurate, unbiased, and responsible, specially, issues concerning academic leadership.

    Read Also: C’River: PDP Chapter Chairmen Forum reaffirms suspension of Venatius Ikem as State Chairman

    He urged Journalists to be cautious not to fuel hate or incite violence, adding that it is their responsibility to promote understanding, bring about constructive dialogue, and ensure that the public has access to accurate and unbiased information about Nnamdi Azikiwe University.

    According to Otu, who read the release before the press, said the peace called was as a result of the ongoing VC’ship crisis currently rocking the University at the moment.

    Otu, emphasized that those sponsoring negative media publicity against Prof. Odoh should work with him to move the university forward, prioritizing the university’s interests over personal gains.

    H highlighted that the Press Conference aimed to set the record straight regarding Prof. Odoh’s personality, academic credentials, and remarkable achievements.

    He noted that some allegations of irregularities in the selection process were unfounded and lack concrete evidence.

    “The race for the seventh substantive Vice Chancellor was concluded on October 29, 2024, with Prof. Odoh emerging on top with 90 points.

    ”A National Industrial Court in Awka validated the Governing Council’s scoring templates, and the Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe-led Governing Council ensured fair hearing, responding to the Medical and Dental Council Association of Nigeria’s concerns.

    “Prof. Odoh boasts an impressive academic background, having obtained his Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences in 1999, Master of Science in Applied Geophysics, and Doctorate in Applied Geophysics from NAU in 2008.

    ”He also served as a visiting Professor of Geophysics at Federal University Gusau in 2014 and became a full Professor of Applied Geophysics in 2015,” Otu said.

    Otu used the media parley to described Prof. Odoh as a pragmatically ambitious individual who prioritizes the public’s best interest.

  • Anambra community parades woman for allegedly killing 15 year-old boy

    Anambra community parades woman for allegedly killing 15 year-old boy

    By Ovat Abeng

    An old woman has been paraded half naked in Igboukwu community in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State on the allegation that she killed a 15 year old boy.

    Video of the parade has gone viral on social media, showing indigenes leading her around the community and raining curses on her.

    In the video, the woman was seen with fresh palm front weaved round her neck, a sign in Igboland that depicts someone has committed sacrilege.

    A young man in the video narrated that the woman tied up the boy with rope, leading to his death.

    Read Also: Focus more on skills acquisition for future development – Peter Obi admonishes Anambra students

    The narrator said: “She committed sacrilege. She tied up a small boy and caused her death. She was caught when she went to the boy’s grave to take sand (possibly to perform rituals that will exonerate her) when she was caught.”

    It was however not certain what the community later did with her after being paraded.

    When contacted the state police command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, he said no such report was brought to the knowledge of the police.

    He promised to make extensive enquiry to ensure that the video is not an old footage being circulated by detractors.

    Some indigenes of Igboukwu who were reached however said they are not aware of the incident.

  • Focus more on skills acquisition for future development – Peter Obi admonishes Anambra students

    Focus more on skills acquisition for future development – Peter Obi admonishes Anambra students

    By Ovat Abeng

    Former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, has encouraged students of St. John of God Secondary School Awka, Anambra State, to prioritize their education, particularly skills acquisition, as a pathway to future success.

    Obi stated this on Tuesday, during his visit to the school where he presented a cheque of 15 million Naira on behalf of Mrs. Bridget Egodi Egbujiobi (formerly Bridget Egodi Akaigwe, Class of 1979), who generously made this donation to support her alma mater.

    “Reflecting on the inspiration behind this gesture, Obi shared how, during a recent trip to the United States, he was warmly hosted by Dr. Leo and Mrs. Bridget Egbujiobi. During their discussions, Obi raised the importance of giving back to society, particularly through supporting one’s alma mater. He congratulated the school on her 60th anniversary.

    Read Also: 40 percent of 2024 NECO candidates may not access tertiary institutions – NSSEC

    During the visit, the Manager of St. John of God Secondary School Awka, Rev. Fr. Malachy Maduewesi thanked Obi, attributing the remarkable advancement of the institution, in both infrastructure and learning, to his ongoing support.

    The Senior Prefect of the school, Miss Chioma Rita Ezechi presented a pair of sandals to Obi on behalf of the school for his wife, noting that Obi’s own pair would be ready during his next visit. She expressed the gratitude of the entire school for Obi’s previous contributions, which include buses, computers, internet connectivity, generators, a library, and funding for the construction and renovation of school buildings. She prayed for continued blessings on Obi as he supports their institution.

    Following his visit to the school, Obi also made a stop at Regina Caeli School of Nursing Awka, where he contributed 10 million Naira to support its mission of advancing healthcare education.

    The Manager of Regina Caeli Hospital thanked Obi for his sustained support and praised his generosity, noting that Obi’s inclusive giving, without regard to tribe or religion, is a lesson in our common humanity – a valuable principle for all Nigerians to learn.

    The Bishop of Awka, Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor, received the donations on behalf of both institutions. He highlighted the significance of these contributions in supporting facility improvements, enhancing student resources, and maintaining high standards in education and healthcare services. He remarked on Obi’s tireless generosity, observing that if Obi could share his private resources so abundantly, he would undoubtedly extend even greater benefits to the nation if given the opportunity to lead.

  • Soludo Assures Anambra Farmers Of More Support As Govt Celebrates 2024 New Yam Festival

    Soludo Assures Anambra Farmers Of More Support As Govt Celebrates 2024 New Yam Festival

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo has said his administration will intensify its support to farmers to boost yam production in the state in the coming years.

    Soludo disclosed this during the 2024 iri ji Ndi Anambra (new yam festival), held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, on Saturday.

    The governor said  that through its strategic partnership with relevant stakeholders including his wife farming initiative and support to local farmers, his administration will achieved food sufficiency for the state.

    He noted that in the coming year, his Government will focus more on Agriculture to curb the trending hunger in the state and the country at large.

    He described the New Yam Festival as an ancient Igbo cultural heritage through which unity is promoted among the people and said his administration will continue to support positive aspects of the Igbo culture.

    Read Also: 2027: Remain firm with Peter Obi – Tanko tells Nigerians 

    The Governor stressed the importance of agriculture in the state’s economy, especially the age-long Igbo value of “hard work pays”.

    The Governor said that the government was committed to encouraging people to farm to feed, which has the potential to create jobs, increase revenue and crash the food prices in the market.

    “This is the pre-eminent cultural day we have in Igbo land. We have a special celebration for new yams.

    “Today, Anambra as a state, officially unveiled the new yam festival. Several communities had done so before now.

    “The symbolism of it, is that we are celebrating it as a state.

    “Here, we have the traditional rulers representing the three senatorial zones. We use this to signify yam as the king of crops.

    “Some time ago, we launched the farm to feed initiative in the midst of the hunger protest. Complaining about hunger is not the Igbo tradition.

    “I encourage you to look for a space around where you live and cultivate what to eat. This will reduce the prices of goods in the market, the governor stated.

    Performing the yam cutting ritual, the traditional ruler of Okpuno in Awka South Council Area, Igwe Sunday Okafor said although the various communities of the state have done their Iwaji, the event is unique as it has prospects for the sustenance of the peace, unity and stability in the state.

    Earlier, the Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Entertainment, Comrade Don Onyenji described the event as significant.

    “During the event last year, Mr Governor took and expressed interest in the festival and decided to approve for this year’s edition.

    “This event is important because some of our children don’t know some of these traditions, which informed the event”; said the Commissioner.

    The New Yam Festival is a cultural event that has been celebrated in the state for generations but not as a state function before Governor Soludo came onboard. It is steeped in tradition and folklore, with colourful displays of music, dance, and costumes.

    The Commissioner thanked the governor for ensuring a huge success of the celebration.

    In their seperate remarks, the Managing Director of Anambra State Waste Management Agency (ASWAMA), Chief Mike Uzemena, Chief Cosmos Oguguagulu, the Lawmaker representing Njikoka one State Constituency, Dr Jude Akpua and the Anoacha Council Chairman, Comrade Romanus Ibekwe, appealed to the people to continue to support the governor’s transformation policy to enable him fulfilled his vision of making Anambra a peaceful, livable and prosperous state in Nigeria.

    It was gathered the iri ji festival which was jointly organized by the State Ministry of Culture/Tourism/Entertainment and her Local Government/Chieftaincy/Community Matters also featured yam competition as well as performances by various music and masquerade troupes.

  • 2027: Remain firm with Peter Obi – Tanko tells Nigerians 

    2027: Remain firm with Peter Obi – Tanko tells Nigerians 

    By Ovat Abeng

    Ahead of 2027 general elections, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr Yunusa Tanko, has urged lovers of good governance in Nigeria, particularly the Igbos to remained firmed in their course to ensure Mr Peter Obi actualized his Presidential ambition for a better Nigeria.

    He said with Obi, a new Nigeria is possible.

    Tanko made the called while speaking at a one-day symposium organised by the Obidient Movement, in partnership with Anambra State Support Groups, held at the All Saints Cathedral Auditorium in Onitsha, on Saturday.

    It was gathered that the event, titled, ‘Repositioning the Obidient Movement for greater impact’ focused on strengthening and repositioning the movement for greater impact and strategic development.

    Tanko said founding fathers such as Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, and Tafawa Balewa, among others, laid a positive foundation for the country, but the country has been undergoing series of challenges due to poor leadership.

    Read Also: Chidoka to deliver 3rd Ojukwu memorial lecture at Ojukwu Varsity

    He said, “Following the formalisation and restructuring of the ‘Obidient Movement’, this symposium aims to harmonise efforts, reinforce the Movement’s organisational structure and unify its mission to uphold social and political cohesion, ethical leadership, and purpose-driven advocacy.

    “This symposium focuses on six core objectives such as harmonisation, restructuring, unification of purpose, social & political cohesion, ethical leadership and the role of the diaspora in reshaping the homeland.

    “We are dedicated to promoting good governance and accountability by bringing together key stakeholders to discuss Nigeria’s future. This event underscores the movement’s commitment to unity, justice and equity.

    “A new Nigeria is possible if we start doing the right things in the area of electing those who lead us.  We are determined to bid farewell to bad governance in Nigeria by ensuring the right people are elected.

    “The Obidient Movement seeks to empower Nigerian youth, advocating for meaningful change and accountability. Its mission aligns with the quest for good governance, justice, and equity.”

    Tanko also urged the South East to continue to support the movement, stressing that “charity begins at home”.

    He also hailed Peter Obi for his commitment to ensuring the country’s well-being, adding that come 2027, the people should ensure the right leaders with capacity to advance Nigeria’s interest are elected.

    The chairman of the occasion, Prof. Stella Okunna, in her remarks, stressed the importance of good governance, thanking the organisers for re-energising the movement.

    Okunna tasked the team to increase visibility beyond party affiliation.

    Also addressing the stakeholders, the Labour Party governorship aspirant for Anambra’s 2025 election, Valentine Ozigbo, emphasised the Obidient Movement’s goal of advancing Nigerian interests.

    Ozigbo urged members to remain united, working toward a better Nigeria. He said that what the Labour Party did in 2023 was to show Nigerians that it’s possible. He appreciated those who helped the movement to gain greater heights, especially folks like Obasanjo, and others.

    Ozigbo noted that a few things that were left undone in the past should be corrected this time around

    He said that 2025 is very important for the ‘Obident Movement, because of the Anambra Election which he is contesting for.

    He said, “I have distributed a document titled, ‘Ka Anambra Chawapu’. The document contains policies for a better, brighter and a more prosperous Anambra, which when implemented will ensure that Anambra is better off than what the state currently is.

    “The people must come together to ensure that they wrestle power from the incumbent APGA government led by governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.

    Another governorship aspirant in Anambra, John Nwosu, outlined his vision for Anambra, focusing on security, health, economy, education, environment, social welfare, and technological advancement.

    Nwosu prioritised technology, production, and agriculture as core development areas, calling on the Obident Movement to stay together for the work ahead.

    Also speaking virtually, Prof. Pat Utomi, called for synergy and pro-activeness among members, emphasising collective action toward a brighter future.

    Utomi called on the people of the south-east to remain together and focused on the task ahead.

  • Chidoka to deliver 3rd Ojukwu memorial lecture at Ojukwu Varsity

    Chidoka to deliver 3rd Ojukwu memorial lecture at Ojukwu Varsity

    By Ovat Abeng

    All is now set for the 3rd edition of the Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Annual Memorial Lecture series to be delivered by the former Aviation Minister, Chief Osita Chidoka, on Friday 15th November, 2024.

    It was gathered that the Lecture series is instituted by the management of the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Igbariam , Anambra State in commemoration of the birthday of the late Biafra warlord, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, whom the University is named after.

    The information was contained in a statement signed and made available to Journalists in Awka, on Sunday by Chidoka’s media aide, Ikechukwu Okafor.

    Read Also: Anambra govt initiates low interest loan to support MSMEs

    According to Okafor, “The Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership is pleased to announce that its Chancellor, Chief Osita Chidoka, OFR, NPOM, will be delivering this year’s Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Annual Memorial Lecture on the topic “Harnessing the Power of Education for National Transformation: Lessons from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s Vision.”

    The lecture is scheduled to take place on Friday 15 November 2024, at 11:00 am in the newly renovated ETF Auditorium, Igbariam Campus, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.

    “This year’s lecture will bring together distinguished guests, including the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo; Chief Ojukwu’s widow, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu; the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; special guest of honour, former Minister Labaran Maku; and the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, who will serve as the Chief Host.

    The Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Memorial Lecture, inaugurated in 2018, is an academic platform dedicated to preserving Ojukwu’s legacy of patriotism, courage, and visionary leadership. Previous lectures have featured esteemed speakers such as Prof. Anselm Odinkalu and Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, who have engaged in important public discourse on critical national issues. This third edition promises to be especially significant, as it comes at a time of great national anxiety, economic challenges, and increasing insecurity,” the statement end.

  • Anambra govt initiates low interest loan to support MSMEs

    Anambra govt initiates low interest loan to support MSMEs

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Anambra Government says it has initiated low interest loans to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the state.

    The State Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr Christian Udechukwu, disclosed this while declaring open, a one-day Anambra Small Business Summit with the theme: “Enhancing the Growth of Small Business for Job and Wealth Creation, held at King David Hotel Awka over the weekend.

    He said the initiative was in line with present administration of governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s vision of making Anambra prosperous homeland in Nigeria.

    Udechukwu, who did not disclosed the interest rates, however, said the mandate of the ministry was to enhance businesses for jobs and wealth creation.

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    According to him, in the ministry under my watch, we have funds that we have made available to micro, small, medium and large enterprises.

    “For micro businesses, you can apply from zero to NN10 million. It is funded by the Anambra State government and the Bank of Industry,” he said.

    He explained that to access more than N10 million loan the business owner had to register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and also own assets.

    The commissioner emphasized the need for small business owners in the state to register with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN) and Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME).

    He said the measure would enable them access the various low interest loans available in the state.

    He noted that the government of governor Soludo was building structures that would promote the non-oil sector through small scale businesses and agriculture.

    In her address, the State SMEDAN Coordinator, Mrs Chito Onuzuluike, said it was unfortunate that small business owners in the state do not take advantage of the opportunities abound in the agency to boost their operations.

    Onuzuluike quarrel that the plan of SMEDAN to help small scale businesses in the state to develop  was being hindered by lackadaisical attitude of business owners.

    Also speaking, Mr Kingsley Ahamefula,  the head of Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), in the state said business registration was important in order to be recognised locally and internationally.

    Earlier, the State Chairman of the National Association of Small Medium Enterprise (NASME), said the summit was first of its kind organised by the private sector to provide solutions to the challenges of doing business in Anambra State.

  • Anambra: Soludo commends ACTDA boss on quality service delivery

    Anambra: Soludo commends ACTDA boss on quality service delivery

    By Ovat Abeng

    Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo has commended the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of Awka CapitalTerritory Development Authority (ACTDA), Hon Ossy Onuko, for providing a quality service delivery in Awka and it environ.

    The Governor gave the commendation when he official unveiled 60 shops called Solution Arena fruits and vegetables and solution grills and sundries initiative by ACTDA for fruits and vegetables traders at Agulu Community in Anoacha local government area of the State on Friday.

    He said his administration will continue to support the Authority until his vision of making Anambra a smart, green, livable and prosperous state in Nigeria is fully achieved.

    According to the governor, the state master plan is huge and accommodates the next generation of ndị Anambra, pointing out that as a result, all Trunk-A Roads have been mapped for dualization.

    Read Also: NAFDAC Confiscates Fake Agrochemicals Worth N5m In Bauchi

    “We have a huge agenda in Agulu and Anaocha. We are just two years and a few months in office. You have benefitted a lot within these years.

    “The Solution Arena which is not ordinarily meant to be a state government project is just supposed to serve as a model to communities, as part of our urban regeneration agenda.

    “This is meant to take development nearer to the people, especially the poor and forgotten, in line with the “leave no one behind” mantra of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA.

    “Everybody that will do business here, will get a shop free of charge. There are communities in the state who hadn’t seen coal tar, but with the massive road construction of over 500 kilometres, they can now heave a sigh of relief”, the Governor stated.

    The Governor noted that in keeping with his urban regeneration initiative, Odu Igbo, Onitsha is currently being constructed, while a Solution Arena structure is already up and running in Awka, thereby reducing street trading.

    “Agulu is a big town. God created and beautified the town with a lake. We will turn Agulu into a tourist destination,” the Governor stressed.

    The governor informed the people of the area that the shops are giving to the beneficiaries free of charge.

    He urged the beneficiaries to protect and make good used of the edifice for the betterment of their families, the community and the state at large. Soludo used the unveiling to seek for more partnership from relevant stakeholders for rural development.

    In his appreciation remark, MD/CEO of ACTDA, Hon Ọnuko, said the project was a clear testament of APGA philosophy of onyeaghana nwanne ya “leave no one behind,” adding that Soludo’s administration was determined to turn Awka into a befitting State capital.

    According to Onuko, our able governor have provided a platform for everyone of us he has given the opportunity to serve Ndi-Anambra to thrive and prosper. We are only following the forestep of the governor. We are learning from the man who knows the way,  got the way and show us the way. And we all this giant transformation policy he has showcase to the people within a space of two and half years in office, his reelection victory come 2025 governorship election will be announced 21/21.

    The ACTDA boss also used the event to charged the management committee setup to manage the facility to be committed, shun corruptions and thinker solutions for it effective management.

    In his contribution, a human rights activist, Comrade Osita Obi, also commended the ACTA boss, for his ideas that have transformed the capital territory.

    Obi again hailed the Anambra State governor for showing compassion to the displaced fruit and vegetable traders by providing them with an even better place after their dislocation.

    Obi said, “I’m now seeing a different side of Soludo. Before, I thought he was a rigid person, but with this development, I have seen the human face and compassion in him and his government.

    It was gathered that the new market named (Oye Toro) located on the Agulu Lakeside road in Umuowelle, Agulu in the Council  Area, will serve as a permanent site for the relocated Nwagu Agulu fruit market, which was displaced due to ongoing road construction projects in the area.

    Also the market relocation is expected to enhance economic activities in the area, providing opportunities for traders and farmers to showcase their produce.

    In attendence during the unveiling were the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Barr. Joachin Anaeto, State Chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obiokoye, the  Anoacha Council boss, Hon Romanus Ibekwe, the Lawmaker representing Anoacha One Constituency Hon Nkechi Ogbuefi and representatives of Solution Ambassadors.

  • Red Cross Trains Anambra Journalists On Accurate Reportage

    Red Cross Trains Anambra Journalists On Accurate Reportage

    By Ovat Abeng

    Anambra State branch of the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), has organised a one-day accurate reportage training programme for journalists in the state.

    The training took place at the Society’s State Headquarters Amawbia-Awka, on Thursday.

    Speaking during the training, the Communication Officer of the Society in the state, Mr. Joseph Obidigwe said the training programme was aimed at equipping journalists with the fundamental principles of the humanitarian organisation in addition to the professional primary responsibility as the watchdog of the society.

    According to Obidigwe, the training was to educate Anambra practicing Journalists on how to accurately project the activities of the Red Cross both in words and photographic in the state and beyond.

    Read Also: Red Cross trains journalists in Cross River on First Aid

    “We want Journalists to understand what we are doing which center primarily on Humanity, Impartiality, Independence, Neutrality, Voluntary Services, Unity and Universality.

    “The fundamental principles sum up the Movement”s ethics and are at the core of its approach to helping people in need during armed conflict, natural disasters and other emergencies. These principles unite the components of the Movement, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the National Societies and the International Federation and enable them to provide effective, unbiased assistance to people in need.

    He said the Red Cross Society specially recognised journalists’ frontline role in conflict and other disasters reportage. Journalists are among the major key partners to the Society. We want a stronger synergy to enable us the public better.

    The Communicator also acknowledged the crucial role journalists play in raising awareness about the humanitarian services provided by the Red Cross Society in Anambra, Nigeria and the World at large.

    In his brief remark, the state secretary of the society, Engr Kingsley Okoye, urged Anambra journalists to always fact-check information before publishing, saying that would contribute to reducing the spread of false information about the Organisation.

    He emphasized the need for journalists to project the commendable work of the Red Cross Society in the state and Nigeria as a whole.

    Okoye, who also seek for more collaboration with the media, used the programme to announced that a total of 1,000 household in three local government areas of the State; Ogbaru, Ayamelum and Anambra West will soon received N90,000 each from a renowned International Organisation.

  • Peter Obi donates N60million to University on the Niger, Teaching Hospital in Anambra

    Peter Obi donates N60million to University on the Niger, Teaching Hospital in Anambra

    By Ovat Abeng

    In his ongoing commitment to investing in critical areas that drive development, health education, and poverty reduction, Mr. Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has donated 50 million naira to the University on the Niger (UNINIGER), Umunya, at their take-off campus in Iyi-Enu, in Idemili North Local Government Area of the State, to support infrastructure development.

    He also provided an additional 10 million Naira to the School of Nursing at Iyienu Mission Hospital, Ogidi.

    During his visit to the Institution, on Thursday, Mr. Obi shared his view that financial support for health, education, and poverty reduction efforts is not merely expenditure, but rather an investment in crucial areas that drive sustainable development. “Our health and education sectors have continued to suffer from severe neglect and lack of government attention, leading to many dire consequences,” he explained.

    Highlighting the specific challenges facing the health sector, Mr. Obi noted that it is burdened not only by funding gaps and infrastructure deficits but also by a significant shortage of healthcare professionals across the country. “We are currently facing a shortage of doctors and nurses, far below WHO’s recommendations,” he said. “The solution to this critical shortage lies in investing more aggressively in the training of healthcare professionals nationwide.”

    Read Also: Appoints Substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko On Merit, NANS Tells Tinubu 

    He expressed his belief that investments like these form the foundation of future developmental strides. Addressing the students, he encouraged them to remain committed to their studies and moral development, reminding them that the value of their qualifications lies in both academic and character excellence.

    In his remarks, the Anglican Bishop on the Niger, Bishop Owen Nwokolo, who oversees the schools, recalled how Obi revitalised education in the state by returning schools to the Church and supporting them thereafter. He expressed deep gratitude to Mr. Obi and commended his dedication to uplifting crucial areas such as education, healthcare, and empowerment. Bishop Nwokolo noted that Iyienu School of Nursing was one of the first institutions to benefit from Obi’s interventions when he was Governor, which enabled them to gain accreditation, and it has continued to receive his support long after his tenure.

    In his own remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Chinedu Osita Nebo, said that Obi is one man who understands the importance of education and has continued to apply himself commendably to that cause. He remarked that Obi’s devotion to education during his tenure as governor awakened the entire South East to pay attention to education, which has led the Eastern states to rank among the best in the nation.

    Speaking at the event, a medical student of the institution, Mr. Ikenna Offor, shared his joy at being part of it, saying, “I’ve heard so much about Mr. Obi, but this was my first time seeing him. It’s amazing to witness the generosity of this great man. Since joining this school, I’ve learned that it was his intervention that made possible two student hostels, House Officers’ quarters, the theatre complex, offices, classrooms, the accident and emergency building, the amenity ward, staff quarters, and the live ambulances. We thank him deeply for his support and hope he continues visiting us.”

    It was gathered that Mr. Obi was accompanied by his fans including Professor Stella Okunna, among other personalities.