Tag: Anambra State

By Ovat Abeng

Anambra State Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Anambra State Waste Recyclers Association (ASWRA), has targeted to recover one hundred thousand tonnes of plastic waste for recycling in the state.

The State Commissioner for Environment, Engr Felix Odimegwu, disclosed this in his address during the official flagged off of All Anambra Communities Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge 2.0. held at the State Secretariat Awka, on Thursday.

He said the initiative will create five thousand indirect job for the three months period.

According to him, the flag off ceremony of the “All Anambra Communities Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge 2.0 is once united by a shared commitment to the preservation and protection of our environment.

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“Last year, in 2023, we embarked on an ambitious journey with the first edition of the Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge. It was a groundbreaking initiative that mobilized communities, fostered environmental awareness, and achieved remarkable success in tackling plastic pollution across.

“Our target was to recover 10,000 tonnes of plastic waste, but thanks to the overwhelming participation and dedication of our communities, we exceeded that goal, recovering over 10,000 tonnes.

“This significant impact filled us with hope and determination.

“Today, as we launch the second edition of this challenge, we do so with renewed energy and an even greater resolve to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Anambra for ourselves and future generations.

“This year’s challenge, Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge 2.0,” builds on the
solid foundation we laid last year. It is a testament to our collective will to make a lasting difference.

Plastic pollution remains one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. It threatens our ecosystems, wildlife, and even our health. However, we have seen firsthand the power of community action. We have seen that when individuals, families, schools, businesses, and organizations unite, we can effectively combat plastic waste.

The “Plastic Waste Recovery Challenge 2.0” is more than just a campaign; it is a movement. It is a call to action for every Anambra citizen to take responsibility for our environment. It is a challenge to each of us to reduce, reuse, and recycle. It is an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the importance of sustainable practices and the impact of plastic pollution.

This year, we have set an ambitious target to recover 100,000 tonnes of plastic waste. We believe that with your continued support and dedication, we can achieve and even surpass this goal. The challenge will once again engage our communities in a spirited competition to see the communities that can collect the most plastic waste. It will involve awareness programs, cleanup drives, and innovative solutions to plastic waste management.

Engr Odimegwu charged all the 179 Communities that constitute the state to key into the programme, noting that the Ministry in collaboration with other partners will recognize and reward the efforts of those Communities who go above and beyond in their commitment to a cleaner Anambra.

He listed the prizes to include one million naira for the first runner, five hundred thousand naira for the second runner and two hundred and fifty thousand naira for the third prize respectively.

The recovery exercise was kicked off by the Deputy Governor of the State, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim.

Others present at the event include representatives of Plastic Waste Associations, Traditional Rulers, the Transition Committee Chairmen of Idemili North Local Government Area, Hon. Standley Nkwoka, ASWAMA boss, Mike Ozemena, students, among others.

By Ovat Abeng

As the world celebrates this year’s International Widow’s Day the Ultimate Business Women And Farmers Association of Nigeria UBWFAN has insisted on stiff laws against the unwholesome practices against widows in Nigeria.

The group further lamented that these unwholesome practices had lots of mental and psychological effects on the widow which often lead to ultimate death.

According to the National President of the Association Hon Mrs Nkiru Nwagbo,who stated this in a statement in Awka on Wednesday, described the fight against unwholesome practices against widows as a collective responsibility, urging federal and state governments as well as members of the state and National Assemblies to partner with faith based organizations to fight against the menace.

“There is no gain saying the fact that widows in the African society have passed through a lot of stigmatization occasioned by the false impression that they were instrumental to the death of their husbands.”

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“Widows in Africa are deprived of their late husband’s property and belongings by relations and are also forced into marriage by relatives of their late husbands with the tag name “Nku Chi’”

“Research has revealed that at least 30 percent of widows in Africa suffer  psychologically rated cases of stress , depression and outright madness due the inhumane treatment against them by relatives of late husbands.”

“It is against this backdrop that the Ultimate Business Women And Farmers Association of Nigeria wishes to extend it’s love and recognition to all widows both in the Association and the society in general.”

“To this end the Association is using this opportunity to urge President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, the respective state governments across the country, faith based organizations as well as the traditional institutions to intensify the campaign against those unwholesome practices against widows in our society.”

“This Association also wishes to urged the respective States and National Assemblies to put measures in form of laws to fight those unwholesome practices against the widows.”

“The Association however commend Her Excellency the wife of Anambra state governor Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo for her sustained efforts in keeping the hope of Anambra women alive including the widows.”

By Ovat Abeng

Governor of Anambra state, Charles Soludo has been asked to withdraw two members of the Panel of Enquiry into the collapse of the CENTENARY BUILDING at Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) Onitsha.

The two members, Prof. Akaolisa Ezeagu who chairs the Panel and Engr. Sir Victor Meju, a key panel member were reported to have made prejudiced comments and publications following the collapse of the building.

In a letter sent to the Governor on behalf of the DMGS Old Boys and Diocese on the Niger,, which was also made available to journalists in Awka on Tuesday, a team of legal Practitioners led by Barrister Nnamdi Ibegbu, Senior Advocate of Nigeria SAN, expressed worry that the public and the Diocese may not get a fair hearing with these persons who have demonstrated manifest bias and unprofessionalism on the matter being members of the Panel.

The Legal Team cited the Sun Newspaper of 16th June 2024, under the column, Voice of the Nation- with heading “No Approval Given For The Collapsed Onitsha School Building-NBRRI” where Prof Akaolisa Ezeagu made comments and came to the conclusion publicly that there was no authorization from any quarters before the gigantic structure was erected.

The Prof. had also in the same news publication even before the commencement of investigations attributed the collapse to the foundation, which he claimed was as a result of disconnect between the building team and the Technical Engineer. Prof. Ezeagu also in the same publication erroneously stated that preliminary investigation points to foundation problem.

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The Legal Team for the DMGS and Niger Diocese further cited the Punch Newspaper of 14th June 2024 with headline “Three More Victims Rescued from Anambra Collapsed Building As Probe Begins” Engr. Sir Victor Meju, a Mechanical Engineer, and Chairman COREN, Anambra State Chapter, in the Newspaper stated that the collapse could be traced to a faulty Foundation and substandard materials used for construction.

He went further to state that the approval was given for a two- storey building, but that our clients decided to add more floors to it.

The Legal Team told the Governor that the two persons, Prof Akaolisa Ezeagu and Engr. Sir Victor Meju have acted unprofessionally and that it is doubtful that they will give unbiased decision in the panel.

The Legal Team pleaded with the Governor most respectfully to withdraw the two persons from the panel or in the alternative the two persons be allowed to honorable recuse themselves from the panel, so that Natural Justice, Equity, Good Conscience and Fairness  shall prevail in the deliberation and report of the panel.

They however commended the Governor for setting up the Panel of Enquiry to investigate the immediate and remote causes of building collapses in parts of the state.

The Legal Team believes  that this laudable initiative by the Governor Wil help to ensure utmost professionalism in the construction sector in the state.

In his reaction, the Chairman of the Panel, Engr Victor Meju, described the allegation as a distraction, appeal to the public to disregard the information, noting that the responsibility repose on them will be carry out in a transparent manner.

Meju denied speaking to any print media during COREN visit to the collapse building site.

He also clarify that he is not a Mechanical Engineer as been quoted by the petitioners.

According to him, I was Inaugurated by the governor to investigate and unravel the real cause of the collapse that claims two lives and not to bind words with people plotting to distract Soludo’s effort in trying to curb the menace of building collapse in the state.

Recall that the governor set up and inaugurates the panel to investigate the true cause of the incident in the commercial city of the State.

By Ovat Abeng

The Anambra State Ministry of Health has taken swift action by activating the state’s Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers across the 21 Local Government Areas in response to a cholera outbreak in Nigeria.

This proactive measure comes as neighboring states like Imo, Abia, and Delta have reported confirmed cases of cholera, prompting heightened vigilance in the state.

State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention in managing outbreaks.

He said this while addressing the media in his office at the Jerome Udoji State Secretariat in Awka.

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“Although Anambra has not yet reported any cases of cholera, but the emergency response teams are actively conducting surveillance in all 21 LGAs to promptly identify and contain any potential cases.”

According to him, Public education campaigns are also underway to raise awareness about cholera and emphasize preventive measures within communities.

Dr. Obidike said he has taken personal initiative to engage with radio stations to disseminate crucial information and educate the public about the signs, symptoms, and preventive strategies for cholera.

He described Cholera to be an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae which poses significant health risks due to its potential to cause severe dehydration, vomiting, and, in severe cases, death if left untreated.

The Commissioner said that the  transmission of cholera is primarily through the consumption of contaminated food or water, highlighting the critical importance of maintaining proper sanitation practices and access to clean water sources.

“Areas with inadequate sanitation facilities and limited access to clean water are at higher risk of cholera outbreaks while underscoring the need for improved public health infrastructure and hygiene practices.

“As of January 2024, Nigeria has been grappling with a significant cholera burden, with 1528 suspected cases and 53 reported deaths across 31 states and 107 local governments.

“So, the collaborative efforts of health authorities, emergency response teams, and community members are crucial in containing the spread of cholera and mitigating its impact on public health.

“The situation calls for continued vigilance, proactive measures, and community engagement to effectively combat the cholera outbreak and safeguard the well-being of the population.

“By prioritizing public health interventions, promoting hygiene awareness, and ensuring access to clean water sources, Anambra State is taking decisive steps to protect its residents and prevent the further spread of cholera.”

He thanked Gov. Charles Soludo’s administration for providing Ndi Anambra with good pipe borne water supply.

By Ovat Abeng

In a heartwarming display of community support, the Ruth Sisters’ Fellowship International Nigeria, a non-denominational organization, celebrated International Widows Day by empowering widows in Umuoji Community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Led by Rector, Prof. Ada Menakaya, the fellowship’s mission of love and care for widows took center stage as they provided each beneficiary with bags of rice, clothing and cash gift of N20,000.

The gesture extended to widowers as well, ensuring an inclusive celebration.

The event also paid tribute to the legacy of Queen Theresa Ofojie, affectionately known as “Egwu Obi Umuoji,” for her remarkable contributions and mentorship to women in the community and beyond.

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Ofojie, a 62-year-old widow, was honored for her melodious songs and her vibrant dancing group, which entertained the audience with a captivating live performance.

Chineze Egbuchiem, a widow from Onitsha and a previous recipient of the fellowship’s cash assistance in March 2024, shared her experience.

According to her, “The money I received has enabled me to start a viable business, which has been a lifeline for me,” she said, expressing gratitude for the fellowship’s empowerment initiative.

Queen Theresa Ofojie, the honored guest, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the recognition.

“I am deeply touched by this celebration. My family and I will cherish this day for the rest of our lives.

“May God continue to bless and empower the Ruth Sisters’ Fellowship to carry on this noble work,” she said.

Mary Chude of the Irene Menakaya School Chapter in Onitsha played a vital role in spearheading the recognition of Queen Ofojie.

“It was not an easy task, but with God’s guidance, we were able to identify and celebrate the remarkable life and contributions of this local legend,” she shared.

Abire Caroline Enarere, the National Coordinator of the Nigeria chapter, on her speech, emphasized the organization’s goal of equipping widows to become self-sufficient and contribute positively to society.

“Our widows entrepreneur startup initiative aims to empower widows to be independent and make a difference in their communities,”

The event stood as a testament to the Ruth Sisters’ Fellowship’s unwavering commitment to empowering widows and honoring the unsung heroes within Anambra’s communities, Enarere stated.

By Ovat Abeng

A Corps member serving in the Community Secondary School, Igbaku, Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State, Mr Charles Akhabua  has reconstructed a five–room water closet toilet as his personal  community development project.

The Delta State born Corps member said he was motivated to embark on the project because the existing one in the school was dilapidated and abandoned resulting in students using the open space as an alternative for easing themselves.

He thanked the Principal of the school, community leaders and other philanthropists for funding the project.

Commissioning the project, the NYSC State Coordinator, Mrs Blessing Ekene Iruma, described the structure as a star project and enjoined the students to make proper use of the facility.

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Mrs Iruma who was represented by the Awka  Zonal Inspector, Mr. Ferdinan Anya, called on other Corps members to strive to leave legacies behind in their Places of Primary Assignments by executing similar projects.

On his part, the President General, Igbaku Town Union, Chief Gilbert Dieli prayed for the Corps member and wished him well in his future endeavours.

By Ovat Abeng

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has said that changing the negative report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), few years ago that Onitsha is the most polluted in the world, is the major reason why he is developing the commercial city of the State.

Soludo disclosed this while speaking to journalists shortly after flagging off Tree Planting Campaign at Port Heart Court road Fegge Onitsha, on Saturday.

The governor, who spoke through the State Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Felix Odimegwu, said keeping Onitsha and Anambra at large clean, green and beautiful top his vision of making the state livable and prosperous in Nigeria.

The Commissioner assure that the ugly impression will be a reverse case before the end of the eight years Soludo led-APGA Government in the state.

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“We have to embrace the earth, not minding that we sometimes have natural disasters but with proper planning and programmes like the Anambra Tree Planting Day, slated for every June 10th, we can always be ready for any form of disaster, be it natural or man-made.”

He added that tree planting is essential as a means of combating climate change challenges such as desertification, drought, and erosion amongst others.

According to him, Ndi-Anambra must commend the achievement of the State Government in the Greening and Restoration of Indigenous Trees project towards curbing climate change challenges.

“As a result of the WHO report, the governor shortly after he was sworn-in in March 17th, 2022, he swiftly moved down to Okpoko slum, where he commenced the beautification exercise by evacuating the long awaiting refused heaps to correct the WHO’s impression about the city.

Engr Odimegwu urged the Onitsha traders and residents to protect the newly planted trees, noting that if mature, it will not only beautify the city, but it will also protect the land for nature and restoration of the planet.

In their separate remarks, the Transition Committee Chairman of Onitsha North Council Area, Hon. Tony Nworah and his Onitsha South counterpart, Hon Emeka Joseph Orji, commended the governor for the initiative and other achievements recorded so far in terms of road construction, youth empowerment programmes and other sectors of the economy within the space of two years in office.

The due promised to secure and sensitized the people the more on the need to key into the tree planting programme for the good of all.

It was gathered that a total of 200 trees where planted during the flagged off ceremony that also has in attendence the State Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu, the governor’s press secretary, Christian Aburime, members of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Anambra State Chapter, Onitsha community/market leaders, among others.