Paradise News

Tag: Anambra State

  • Anambra North Labour Party Stakeholders Meet, Lauds Peter Obi’s Vision

    Anambra North Labour Party Stakeholders Meet, Lauds Peter Obi’s Vision

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Labour Party in Anambra North respectively led by Senator Dr Tony Nwoye, Hon Afam Ogene, Hon Iduh Emeka, and Hon Macpee Anaekwe has held a series of interactive stakeholders’ meetings across the four federal constituencies in the senatorial zone.

    The meetings, attended by over 1500 party leaders and stakeholders, aimed to assess the state of the party, address challenges, and prepare for the upcoming party congress. Senator Nwoye emphasized the need for peace, unity, and grassroots participation in the party’s leadership selection process.

    He said, ”We want to build a stronger Labour Party in Anambra North and State, and we need your input and support.

    “We must work together to overcome our challenges and ensure victory in future elections.”

    The stakeholders expressed their gratitude to Mr Peter Obi for his vision and direction and pledged to work together to build a stronger Labour Party. They also commended the National Assembly members from Anambra North for their effective representation and commitment to the party’s growth.

    The meetings were held in four different locations across the senatorial zone, on Wednesday with each venue packed with enthusiastic party faithful.

    In Oyi Local Government Area, the meeting was held at the party office, while in Ogbaru Federal Constituency, it was held at Afan Hotel Okoti Odekpe.

    The meetings for Anambra East and West Federal Constituency and Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency were held at Angels Hotels and Suites Aguleri and 33 Federal Housing, Onitsha, respectively.

    The event also witnessed the official welcoming of Hon Uchenna Okafor (Wiper) into the Labour Party family in Oyi Local Government Area.

    Hon Okafor, a former candidate of the party, praised the party’s credibility and acceptance among the people, stating that he had joined the party to contribute to its growth and success.

    Other notable attendees included all Anambra State House of Assembly members from the zone, former candidates of the party from the zone in the last election, all Local Government Party Chairmen from the zone, community leaders, and many others.

    The meetings demonstrated the party’s commitment to unity, inclusivity, and grassroots participation, setting a positive tone for the upcoming congress and future elections. With this united front, the Labour Party in Anambra North is poised for greater heights.

  • Ojukwu Varsity unveils 5-year roadmap to combat challenges of Climate Change in Nigeria

    Ojukwu Varsity unveils 5-year roadmap to combat challenges of Climate Change in Nigeria

    …Begins 1 million tree planting

    By Ovat Abeng

    Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, Anambra State has unveiled a five-year Tree Planting/Climate Action Plan towards combating the challenges of climate change in Nigeria.

    The COOU Ag. Vice Chancellor, Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha told participants at a one-day 2024 Climate Action Summit, held at the University’,s ETF Auditorium on Wednesday, that the roadmap was geared toward achieving the ultimate goal of a zero-carbon Varsity in Nigeria.

    Omenugha said that the climate change policy and action plan encapsulated the state’s vision for combating the challenge of climate change and achieving the ultimate goal of a zero-carbon Anambra State.

    She also set up students environmental task force in the Institution as part of her action plan against the challenges.

    According to her, the Ojukwu University has successfully updated the action plan to reflect governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s vision of making Anambra a clean, green, livable and prosperous state in Nigeria.

    In her words, “I am delighted to let you know that Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (formerly Anambra State University), is the first University in Nigeria to have developed a Climate Action Plan to help achieve an emission-neutral institution by 2029.

    The emergence of this action plan establishes our University’ as the greener University in the country.

    “Our appreciation goes to the Anambra State Ministry of Envirmement, Nigeria Conservative Foundation (NCF), Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), National Council of Climate Change, AI/Climate Action Future, Green Envirmement/Climate Change Initiative and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations! (NIPR) which the University has reached an agreement, and which has also helped us update our Climate Action Plan in line with prevailing realities in the University.

    “This maiden edition gave us an opportunity to present the new University Climate Action Plan to the World.

    “Our objective now is to carry out this awareness to the entire University community to get the staff and students to imbibe the culture of climate awareness in their homes and lifestyles, the VC noted.

    The State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo in his brief speech while declaring the summit open, urged residents in the state to support every necessary action towards protecting the environment.

    Governor Soludo was represented at the summit by his Chief of Staff, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi.

    The keynote speaker of the Summit and the Director General of Nigeria Conservative Foundation (NCF), Dr. Joseph Onoja while delivering his speech, on the theme, “Tree-Mendous Strategy For A Sustainable Future”, congratulated the University management on the unveiling of the ,5-years Tree Planting/Climate Action Plan, noting that the effects of environmental problems knew no borders.

    The DG encouraged government, communities and individuals to actively participate in the tree planting project for forest reservation.

    He expressed the Foundation’s readiness to partner the University in combating the challenges.

    The event was also attended by the Nigerian Former Ambassador to Spain, Amb. Bianca Ojukwu, Chairman of the University Governing Council, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, Member of the University Governing Council,  His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. Oranu Chris Chidume, His Royal Highness, Igwe Alex Onyido, Chief Okeke Ogene (National Vice President, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide), Chairman of the occasion, Mr Peter Nwosu, Prof. Kingsley Nwozor, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State ICT Agency, Mr Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, the unveiler/Managing Director of Kacel Oil and gas, Izuchukwu Ifemelumma, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake (Commissioner for Economic Planning), Mr. Christian Udechukwu (Commissioner for Industry), Barr. Ifeanya Anthony ( Commissioner for Petroleum), Commissioner for Envirmement, Engr Felix Odimegwu, Commissioner for Culture and Entertainment, Comrade Don Onyeji, Prof. Phil Eze-Phil (ANSEWCCA), Former MD/CEO ABS Dr Uche Nworah and Ms. Chinwe Okoli (SPAD on Innovation and Business Incubation), amongst others.

    The Paradise News gathered that the summit also feature panel discussion, displace of traditional dance and the commencement of the 1 million tree planting project.

  • Anambra 2025: 500 APGA, PDP, LP members join APC

    Anambra 2025: 500 APGA, PDP, LP members join APC

    By Ovat Abeng

    No fewer than 500 members of the All Progressive Grand Alliance APGA, People Democratic party PDP and the Labour Party working under the umbrella of Ikemba Front, a political group, from Atani Ward 2 in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State have joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

    The group were received by Mr Odinaka Duru and Mr Arinzechukwu Achike, Chairman of APC in Atani Ward 1 and Atani Ward 2 respectively.

    Ikemba Front also bestowed honour to Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah, an APC governorship hopeful for Anambra 2025 governorship election for his contributions to the party and development of the state.

    Chukwebuka Obaelue, the Coordinator of  Ikemba Front Atani Ward 2 Coordinator,  said  they were pleased to have the privilege of hosting the Ubah and  the national leadership of political group.

    Obaelue said APC had become the only option for Anambra people and that they were embracing the party to align with its members whom he said had  contributed to the development of Ogbaru LGA.

    He said Chief Arinzechukwu Awogu, the National Coordinator of Ikemba Front who hailed from Ogbaru had by his activities compelled everyone to begin to adjust towards APC in Ogbaru.

    He pledged the group’s support for Ubah’s candidacy whom he said had contributed immensely to sociopolitical development of the people of Anambra.

    Awogu who received the award on behalf of Ubah described the reception accorded to Ubah by Ikemba Front, Atani Ward 2 as a mark of the people’s acceptance of APC and Ubah for 2025 Anambra governorship.

    He decried the condition of Ogbaru roads particularly, the Atani-Ossomala-Ogwuikpele road which had almost been cut off at Idemili and Deeper Life-Junction sections of the all important Ogbaru road.

    Sir Awogu, a former Ogbaru local government council chairman, queried why the people of Ogbaru should be made to pass through hell in accessing the only road that served as their link to the world.

    “It is inexcusable for that road to deteriorate to impassable condition while the state government watches standing akimbo, but rakes in hundreds of millions monthly from Ogbaru.

    “Will Isuofia road be that bad without the state government doing palliative work on the immediate to ease the daily anguish of motorists and other road users?

    “The abandonment of that road is akin to wickedness and an obvious sign of the placement of Ogbaru in the eyes of the Anambra State  government  of the  day,” he said.

    Awogu called on the people to remain resolute while assuring them that the government of APC under Sen Ubah would be a true government of the people.

    He welcomed the new 500 members into Ikemba Front saying their entry into the APC would better the electoral fortune of the party.

    “We have to stand firm and fights for the victory of the party in the coming Anambra State governorship election,” he said.

    Awogu, the National Coordinator of Ikemba Front was also bestowed with an honour by Atani Ward 2.

  • Health Minister inaugurates NAUTH permanent site in Anambra

    Health Minister inaugurates NAUTH permanent site in Anambra

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Honorable Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Mohammed Ali Pate on Wednesday disclosed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to the transformation of the nation’s health sector targeted at improving the health of Nigerians.

    Pate disclosed this during the official Inauguration of the permanent site and his maiden visit as well as commissioning of projects at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Anambra state.

    He said that what was going on in NAUTH represented part of government efforts to ensure that Tinubu’s administration delivered on its mandate.

    He lauded the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of NAUTH Prof. Joseph Ugboaja and his team for the feat and foundation leaders who were honored during the ceremony, just as he acknowledged efforts of the private sectors for investing in the health area.

    “The health sector is undergoing transformation under the able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration, which is focused to improving the health of every Nigerian.

    “Such transformation is evident in the area of infrastructure, state-of-the-art equipment and quality health services to save lives and prevent diseases.

    “This hospital represents part of government efforts to ensure we deliver on our mandate. We also recognize efforts of the private sector in investing in the health sector.

    “Health is wealth. Without health, you can’t work, go to school, market and so on. This is the reason Mr President is investing heavily in the health sector in collaboration with all segments of the society.

    “Amidst difficulties we are passing through as a nation, we are grateful to God who in his wisdom has placed on the saddle President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assist us navigate through.

    “We assure the hospital community and indeed the government and good people of Anambra state of continued support to improving health of the citizens, “he said

    The CMD, Prof Ugboaja, in his address called on the Federal Government to help realise their vision and 10-year strategic development plan designed to lifting the institution to compete globally with others.

    Prof. Ugboaja said the vision of the team he leads is to make the hospital rank among the top three health facilities in Nigeria by the year 2030.

    “The 10-year strategic plan anchored on nine pillars which include: a strong governance structure, aggressive infrastructure, acquisition of equipment, robust financial management etc, have greatly helped to transform the hospital, enhance healthcare value chain and ensuring health security.

    He, however, explained that while management has completed well over 4 km of roads, there is need for more internal roads, security cameras to cover the hospital environment, solar lights, just as he appealed to the Minister for Health to facilitate approval for the waiver to recruit staff.

    The CMD disclosed the challenges at NAUTH hospital which include, inadequate number of staff, our schools are still located at our old site, even as most of our clinical unites have been relocated.

    He also disclosed that there is need to construct more classrooms and hostels for the college of nursing and school of health information management.

    “We are calling for more of Federal Government’s intervention to construct staff quarters to provide accommodation to house those who live far away from our facilities to affect the patients positively, ”he added.

  • AI firm partners Ojukwu Varsity to train students on new technology

    AI firm partners Ojukwu Varsity to train students on new technology

    By Ovat Abeng

    Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University COOU, on Tuesday signed a Memoradum of Understand with Bliss Robot Education Hub (Bredhub -Ubtect), an Artificial intelligence (AI)/Robotics consulting firm to trained students on new technologies.

    In signing the MOU, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha while expressing delight over the partnership, said it is the kind of creative programme the University want for it staff and students to leverage on in preparation for their future endeavors.

    “We have to key into the initiative because, this is one of the things, I think Ojukwu Varsity can do to get back to Ndi-Anambra and the society at large.

    “I have also encouraged the University community as a whole to be part of the self-entrepreneurial project.

    Read Also: Iloenyosi kicks off Anambra 2024 All Stars Football Championship 

    The current University management under my watch, for the past 7-months has achieved a lot of development including the present AI/Robotics training in which we derived the inspiration from the state governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo who have promised to make Anambra a digitalize, clean, green livable and prosperous state in Nigeria.

    While welcoming the management team of Bredhub -Ubtect, during the signing ceremony that took place at the VC’s conference hall, Prof Omenugha, extolled the quality of work that the company is doing in partnership with other Universities across the country to trained students on the new technologies.

    On his part, the Managing Director of Bredhub -Ubtect, Mr. Ahamefuna Michael, enthused at the prospect and potential of the collaboration.

    Mr Michael noted that the benefits of the collaboration are already far-reaching and the company has donated some robotics kits to  the school ,provided training, and has already prepared young instructors for the programme.

    “This MoU will not only benefit the University, but it will also help create an outreach program for youth in the entire University community.

    He noted that Bredhub -Ubtect has also partnered with University of Lagos, Nassarawa State University and the University of Oyo and that Bredhub -Ubtect has been in existence in Nigeria for the past 9-years.

    Also speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State ICT Agency, Mr.Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, welcomed the University’s partnership with Bredhub -Ubtect through the AI-Robotic, as a development that will enable the students build rare and competitive skills of the future for decent jobs.

  • Monarch calls for quality access road to boost food supply in Nigeria

    Monarch calls for quality access road to boost food supply in Nigeria

    By Ovat Abeng

    The traditional ruler of Omor community in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State, His Royal Highness Igwe Oranu Chris Chidume, has called on government at all levels to provide quality access road to the people living in rural areas across the country.

    The monarch who made the call over the weekend in an interactive session with journalists in his palace, noted that in order to address food crisis faced by the residents of the country, there are need for both Federal and State Government to construct and maintain access road for easy distribution of farm products from hinterland to the urban areas across the nation.

    Ìgwè Oranu while reminding the Anambra State Government that Ayamelum was the food basket of the State and by extension, Nigeria, insisted that the state should not base their road maintenance on which one was a federal or state roads, adding that the target would have been to provide access road to the people living in the rural areas.

    Read Also: Iloenyosi kicks off Anambra 2024 All Stars Football Championship

    According to the monarch, “If we don’t have quality access road to bring out what we harvest from our farms there is no way the food crisis we are crying for will be eliminated and one of the easiest way to curb food crisis is to give access road to those people that produce food so that food can reach the needy”.

    He lamented on the dilapidated nature of roads leading to Ayamelum Local Government Area. He noted that the people of the area incur huge cost on transportation due to inaccessibility.

    “When you are coming to Ayamelum, you have to come through Igbariam en route Nando, whereas from 33, you can come straight to Ayamelum but you can not do that now because the road is cut off”, he said.

    Igwe Oranu while acknowledging that the government will not finish every work in  the state in a day, applauded Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his steadfastness in infrastructural development across the state,  appeals to the state government to remember Ayamelum Local Government in the area of access road construction and maintenance.

  • Iloenyosi kicks off Anambra 2024 All Stars Football Championship

    Iloenyosi kicks off Anambra 2024 All Stars Football Championship

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Chairman of Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA),  Mr. Chikelue Iloenyosi, has kicked off the Anambra 2024:All Stars Football Championship.

    Iloenyosi performed the opening ceremony at the Awka Township Stadium, on Sunday, accompanied by ANSFA management team and some members of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra State Council.

    The championship kick off ceremony, drew a large crowd of fans from the twenty-one local government areas of the state.

    The large crowd of spectators were entertained with music, dancing and displays with local artists showcasing their talents to the delight of the crowd.

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    21 teams will battle it out for the coveted title.

    Speaking to journalists shortly after the kick-off, the former Nigeria international expressed optimism that the healthy competition will get the youths busy and help to foster unity and progress in the state.

    He recalled that the current administration of governor Chukwukuma Soludo’ has already flagged-off the sports economy in the state, noting that football is part of efforts to guarantee a healthy society.

    He promised that the All Stars Game 2024 (BABATEM), will be an exciting tournament, assuring that fans and supporters can expect to witness some thrilling encounters that would showcase some talented young footballers in the state.

    He commended Obosi All Stars Obosi for winning their first match against Anambra State All Stars Sport Club Onitsha 2-1.

    In an interview after the game, Coach of Obosi All Stars Comrade Chukwunwendu Okoye said his team believed in themselves which was the reason they fought till the end.

    “Before the game, we were the under dogs because we played against the defending champions. Nobody gave us a chance but thank God we won the game. This victory means a lot to us because it has boost our confidence.

    “I commend Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Football Association Chairman of Anambra State General Chikelue Iloenyosi for organizing this competition. This administration has resurrect grassroots sports again and we hail Babatem for joining hands in making it a reality,” Okoye further stated.

    The event attended by representatives of Nigeria Football Federation and sport lovers across the 21 local government area of the State also featured the official kick-off by the ANSFA boss, march past by participating teams.

  • Anambra Govt Takes Stand Against Criminal Activities

    Anambra Govt Takes Stand Against Criminal Activities

    Ovat Abeng

    In a bold move to combat criminal activities in Anambra State, Governor Charles Soludo has established the Special Anambra Anti-Touting Squad (SASA).

    This newly formed unit aims to eliminate various forms of criminal activities such as one-chance robbery, drug abuse, handbag snatching, and illegal extortion of traders across markets in the state, particularly in Onitsha and its surrounding areas.

    The Director of SASA, Hon Solomon Chukwuebuka Onwuemene who recently addressed the media in Awka, where he highlighted the positive impact of the anti-touting squad since its inception, stated that reports of illegal extortion, one-chance robbery, handbag snatching, and other criminal incidents have decreased by fifteen percent in markets across the state.

    Governor Soludo’s administration is determined to restore law and order in Anambra, with a specific focus on Onitsha and its environs. The establishment of the anti-touting squad is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. The squad’s primary objective is to ensure zero tolerance for touting in the state and create a pleasurable experience for pedestrians and commercial activities on the streets, roads, and markets.

    Read Also: Anambra Lawmaker, Akpua Underscores Importance Of Constituency Briefing, Presents Score Card

    Touting has had a detrimental effect on the growth and development of Onitsha, hence the urgent need to eradicate this menace. Governor Soludo aims to revive the traditional values that Anambra was once known for and restore the state’s reputation as the Light of the Nation.

    The Soludo administration has also prioritized youth empowerment programs. The ongoing “One Youth, Two Skills Empowerment Programme” has already lifted over five thousand youths from the streets in just two years. This initiative will continue to provide great opportunities for the youth of Anambra.

    The SASA boss assured continuous collaboration with other security agencies to maintain a peaceful environment in the state. He urged individuals involved in touting and criminal activities to embrace the state government’s empowerment programs, enabling them to become productive members of society and contribute to their families and communities.

    Residents of Anambra State are encouraged to pray for Governor Soludo as he works towards his vision of creating a livable and prosperous state. With the establishment of the anti-touting squad, Anambra is taking a stand against criminal activities, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.

  • Anambra Lawmaker, Akpua Underscores Importance Of Constituency Briefing, Presents Score Card

    Anambra Lawmaker, Akpua Underscores Importance Of Constituency Briefing, Presents Score Card

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Member Representing Njikoka Two State Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Dr Jude Akpua, has described constituency briefing as one of the cardinal means of effective representation of the citizenry.

    Hon Akpua stated this during his constituency briefing for the people of Abagana, Nimo and Abba Communities, held at the Njikoka local government headquarters, Abagana, on Saturday.

    It was gathered that the event brought to the fore the need for accountability in governance as well as the need for constant interface between the people and their representatives.

    It was in the light of this that Hon Akpua, who doubles as the Deputy Majority Leader in State Assembly in conjunction with Justice, Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC), Awka, invited stakeholders at the Council Secretariat Hall to give account of stewardship and chart the way forward.

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    While affirming that the times are challenging due to the prevailing realities, he noted that it has not stopped him from performing his constitutional duties and service to humanity.

    He enumerated his achievements which includes constituency projects in the three communities, sponsorship of seven bills of which one had been passed into law amongst other support services to his constituents.

    Hon Akpua, who pledged to sponsor more projects in all the wards in the constituency, said he was on a mission to serve and contribute to grassroots development.

    In a Keynote address, Executive Director JDPC, Rev Fr Levi Ukor, described constituency briefing as an opportunity to discuss with constituents on some needs assessment and deliberate on strategic solutions on how to tackle identified bottlenecks.

    He, then, commended the legislator for his commitment and determination to serve, acknowledging that he picked up the courage to organise the event.

    “Waiting for the campaign period to organise such town hall meetings or constituency briefings is abnormal and should be discouraged.”

    Some stakeholders who also spoke including Igwe Leonard Nwankwo of Abba Community, Rtd AVM Ben Chiobi, Pharm Chinedu Anekwe and Bar Chinedu Ononiba commended the footsteps taken by the lawmaker which they said would help achieve maximal objectives.

    Other constituents extolled Hon. Akpua for his humble leadership, noting that such gathering should be a regular exercise.

  • Anambra 2025: APC chieftain, Nwokafor urges support for Ifeanyi Ubah aspiration

    Anambra 2025: APC chieftain, Nwokafor urges support for Ifeanyi Ubah aspiration

    By Ovat Abeng

    Ahead of the 2025 governorship election in Anambra, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the state, Ozo Amobi Nwokafor has called on the party leadership and stakeholders of Awka constituency A, to maximally support and throw their weight behind the aspiration of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

    Nwokafor, a former APC aspirant in the 2021 governorship election said Ubah should be given the maximum support to ensure victory for the party, noting that the Senator remains the best assets at a time like this.

    Speaking with Journalists shortly after meeting with Awka APC stakeholders at his Okpuno- Awka residence, on Thursday, the Chieftain described Senator Ifeanyi Ubah as a child of necessity and a unifier, who will carry all stakeholders along, assuring he will be the next Governor of Anambra State come 2025.

    According to him, “As one of the past front line aspirants from APC Anambra central, who was able to build a good manifesto turned ideology, a rooted politician with kind heart, a former president general in Awka and a certified Auditor with offices all over the country, I stand to say that Ifeanyi Ubah has what it takes to fly the party ticket.

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    “Using this great opportunity to welcome members of APC Awka stakeholders of thought for coming out to win back the state from APGA who have kept the state in a state of dilemma, I opined that after meeting Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah who is currently representing Anambra South Senatorial District at the National Assembly Abuja, I came at home with the believe that Anambra South still have another term before central.

    “Senator Ubah’s sojourn in politics has proven beyond compare that he is the game changer of Anambra South politics, winning with a party like YPP was the history of a modern political twist in the record of Anambra South politics, he added.

    Nwokafor while noting that Ubah’s victory is victory for all members of the party in the state, reassure that Awka North/South Federal Constituency will work together to achieve the goal for the benefit of Ndi-Anambra.