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By Madu Obi The federal government has described Anambra State as a leader in environmental initiatives, commending the state's efforts in combating erosion, waste management, and other forms of environmental degradation. At the launch of the €175 million Nigeria Climate Adaptation , Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) in Abuja, the Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balaraba Abbas Lawal, observed that Anambra is the most proactive and effective state in advancing environmental sustainability across Nigeria. Speaking during an interactive session with the Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, the Minister said that NEWMAP, which is a collaborative initiative between the European Investment Bank and the Nigerian government, targets the critical challenges of flooding, gully erosion, and land degradation that affect vulnerable communities nationwide. According to him, with a total funding of €175 million, the project aims to scale up climate adaptation strategies across the country, with Anambra poised to receive substantial support under the programme.. Highlighting the state’s achievements, Minister Lawal praised Anambra for its “unprecedented community-driven initiatives, rapid and effective response to erosion threats, and exemplary waste management systems.” These efforts, he stated, serve as a model blueprint for environmental governance throughout Nigeria. “Dr. Odimegwu stands out as one of the most dedicated and results-oriented Commissioners for Environment in the country. Under his leadership, Anambra has reversed years of ecological damage, setting a new benchmark for sustainable environmental management," Lawal said. Responding, Dr. Odimegwu attributed the state’s progress to the collaborative efforts of the citizens of Anambra, government agencies, and development partners. “This recognition belongs to every community that chose action over apathy. We remain steadfast in our commitment to urgency, innovation, and sustainable environmental protection.” he stated. Anambra, which has the highest number of erosion sites in the country, has made significant strides through climate-smart urban planning, decentralized waste recycling programmes, and grassroots sustainability projects that have transformed its environmental landscape. The Commissioner reassured both the Federal Government and the European Union delegation of Anambra’s unwavering commitment to advancing progressive environmental reforms and building climate resilience.

By Obi Madu The wife of the Anambra State governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo, has congratulated Anambra State for the state's performance at the 2025 President and Schools competition in Abuja, where the state won nine awards. The awards include the overall best school in Nigeria won by Woliwo Primary School II, Onitsha, first runner-up for best approved private School in Nigeria won by Pinkberry International School, Odume, Obosi. Others are first runner-up, for approved private Senior Secondary School in Nigeria won by Emmanuel Ndibe of St Theresas Secondary School, Enugwu Ukwu, and first-runner up for best approved private Primary School Teacher in Nigeria won by Nkechi Ikedi of Pinkbery International Primary School Odume, Obosi. The awards for the first runner-up for best public Junior Secondary School in Nigeria was won by Girls’ Secondary School, Ojoto, first runner-up for the best Public Primary School Teacher in Nigeria was won by Cosmas Nwata of Igbariam Farm Settlement Primary School, while the first runner-up for best public Senior Secondary School Administrator in Nigeria won by Amaka Ubaka of Prince Memorial Secondary School, Onitsha. Equally the award for the first runner-up for best public Junior Secondary School Administrator in Nigeria won by Ngozi Okafor of Community High School, Nkwelle Ezunaka, and first runner-up for best public Primary School Administrator in Nigeria was won by Nnenna Edozieobi of Model Primary School, Akabor, Ojoto. Describing the awards as another phenomenal feat, Mrs Soludo said: "I’m super excited to learn that Anambra State won historic 9 awards at the 2025 President and Schools Excellence Award held in Abuja. All of these great awards represent the fruits of our investments in Anambra’s education sector. Our 2025 budget dedicated 101% of the spending to the sector alone, representing the largest budgetary allocation in terms of sectorial breakdown. The rewards are paying off, and it’s all credit to the right vision and deliberate target." According to her, education is the backbone of the state's human capital master plan, noting that Governor Chukwuma Soludo's Dubai-Taiwan journey begins from the classroom. She congratulated all the schools and teachers who made the state proud again, saying, "May your flame of glory take you farther than it already has."

By Madu Obi The gubernatorial candidate of the African Development Congress (ADC) for the November 8 election, Mr John Nwosu, has vowed to dismantle the current revenue collection system in Anambra State, as well as end multiple taxation. Describing some of the revenue collectors as "street terrorists", Nwosu said he would do away with them from his first day in office. The ADC candidate, who made the promise during an online interactive session with Anambra indigenes residing abroad under the umbrella of ASA USA, expressed deep concern over the alleged overreach of the tax collectors. He described the activities of the revenue agents as a "sad commentary" on the current administration, arguing that it has brought a lot of tears to the people. He said: "Multiple taxation is a problem that is common, especially in Anambra State and I will end it. I will operate 100 per cent full E-government system to streamline revenue collection and eliminate the need for physical enforcers on the streets. Under our E-transport system, whoever registers will be free of any sort of harassment. You’re not supposed to be seen on the road harassing anybody as you like. We’ll remove them 100 per cent from the streets. Technology-driven approach would not only end the harassment, but also tackle corruption and improve government transparency". For interstate taxation, particularly those affecting commercial transporters, Nwosu proposed a collaborative approach through the South East Governors Forum, noting that a computerized sticker system, modeled after one used in the South West, would be used to prevent multiple levies across the region. "It will be done in such a way that if you register in Anambra State, 50 per cent of the tariff will be remitted to the state, while 50 per cent will be shared among the other states. The sticker will have features that would enable a smart phone to authenticate its genuineness", he explained. Nwosu, who is an ICT expert, also spoke on his commitment to a modern governance model, indicating a willingness to engage consultants and professionals from the diaspora to implement sweeping reforms.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 46-year-old man, Obadigbo Emmanuel Anumudu, said to be the prime suspect in the gruesome murder and beheading of Mrs. Obianuju Akubi, a 69-year-old woman at Umueri, Anambra East local government area, in July 2024. The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said in a statement that operatives of the command attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, acting on credible intelligence, stormed Aguleri, Anambra East local government area, and apprehended the suspect, who had been on the run for over a year. According to the PPRO, upon interrogation, Anumudu confessed to the crime and provided information leading to the identification of other members of the gang who participated in the murder and beheading of the elderly woman. "The suspect had been on the run since 22nd July 2024 after he gruesomely murdered and beheaded late Mrs. Obianuju Akubi, a 69 year old woman in Umuleri. During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime and further mentioned members of his gang who participated in the murder and beheading. He also disclosed the whereabouts of the victim’s head, which was taken away after the heinous act", the PPRO said. Ikenga added that intensive efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the remaining gang members to ensure that justice is served, assuring that further developments on the matter would be communicated to the public in due course.

By Madu Obi Following a statement by the Anambra State Police command that enforcement of the tinted glass permit has begun across the state, many motorists have parked such cars and are apparently waiting for further development. It was discovered weekend that traffic was light on most roads in the state, although no enforcement team was seen in any part of the state. Some people who spoke on the matter said they had thought that the enforcement was suspended following alleged court intervention, adding however that they had to park their cars until the picture becomes clear. However, the state Police command has urged motorists to cooperate with its officers in the enforcement of the tinted glass permit regulation, insisting that the exercise is for public safety. In a statement in Awka, the state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the enforcement followed credible intelligence indicating that some criminal elements have been using vehicles with unauthorized tinted glasses to evade security checks and commit crimes, such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and attacks on innocent citizens. The statement read: "Anambra State Police command wishes to inform the general public, that the ongoing enforcement of tinted glass permit is not intended to punish road users, but to ensure that the right thing is done in the overall interest of public safety. Security intelligence has revealed that some criminal elements exploit vehicles with unauthorized tinted glasses to beat security checkpoints, conceal their identity, and carry out crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and attacks on innocent residents in the state. In view of this, the command emphasizes that the enforcement exercise is aimed at curbing criminal activities, enhancing visibility for security checks, and safeguarding law-abiding citizens. The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, therefore appeals to motorists and the general public to cooperate with Police officers in this regard, as the measure is purely a security strategy designed to make Anambra State safer for all." The command also published a link that would enable people to obtain the permit online, assuring that the portal is safe, easy to use and is self-guided. The command reaffirmed its commitment to maintain law and order, while ensuring that the rights of citizens were respected during the enforcement exercise across the state.

By Madu Obi Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has warned government officials against collecting levy from petty traders. The governor gave the warning while addressing a political rally at Ekwulọbịa, Aguata local government area, during which he emphasized the importance of the community’s involvement in local governance. It was gathered that his call stemmed from an earlier visit to Eke market in Awgbu, Orumba North local government area, where it was observed that levies were still being collected from petty traders with less than one hundred thousand naira capital, against government directive. “Don’t collect from them anymore. We will arrest anybody that goes ahead to disregard this,” he warned, reaffirming his commitment to protecting the livelihoods of petty traders. Soludo expressed gratitude for the community's support for his administration and highlighted the significance of Ekwulọbịa in Anambra State. He recalled that while former Governor Jim Nwobodo had designated Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, and Ekwulọbịa as cities, the latter was apparently overlooked in the development plans. “To become a real city, Ekwulọbịa requires serious planning,” he stated, proposing the establishment of a dedicated committee on town planning to facilitate its growth. He said that in addition to municipal reforms, his administration is committed to social welfare, including free education, free antenatal care, and delivery services for the underprivileged. The Mayor of Aguata local government area, Dr. Chibueze Offforbike commended the governor for transforming Ekwulobia within a short time. "We have transformed from a rural to a semi-urban and now an urban local government area, courtesy of Governor Soludo. Thank you for making us proud. We assure you of our commitment from the wards to the polling units," he assured. The people of the local government later presented s cheque of eighty million naira to the Governor and his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, in support of their governorship campaign.

By Madu Obi The death has occurred of the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in charge of Operations in the Anambra State Police command, James Omanulun Ihiabe. ACP Ihiabe died on 1st October, 2025 after a brief illness. The command described his demise as a great loss, adding that he has left a void in the fight against crime and the maintenance of law and order in the state. The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement, said the late senior Police officer distinguished himself through years of dedicated service to the Nigeria Police Force and to Anambra State. The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State command, Ikioye Orutugu, has also expressed his condolences to the bereaved family, the Inspector-General of Police, and the entire Nigeria Police Force. He described Ihiabe’s death as “an irreparable loss” to the command and the nation’s security system. According to the Police command, Ihiabe's funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

By Madu Obi The League of Anambra Professionals (LAP) has announced the launch of its Future Forward Scholarship Programme aimed at assisting brilliant but financially disadvantaged students of Anambra origin to pursue higher education. The educational support initiative, according to LAP, is designed for candidates who have passed their Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, examinations, but were unable to proceed to the university due to lack of funds. Described as one of the organization’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects, the programme seeks to give hope to young Anambra people and strengthen the state’s human capital through education. LAP President, Nnamdi Obi said eligibility requirements include proof of indigent status, strong WASC/JAMB results, testimonial of good behavior from school or evidence of extra-curricular engagement, confirmation of indigene status from the applicant’s Traditional Ruler or Town Union President General, a one-page personal statement by the candidate, and a supporting letter from a parent or guardian. According to him, interested applicants are required to complete the online application form via www.leagueofanambraprofessionals.org, while inquiries may be directed to leagueofanambraprofessionals@gmail.com. The deadline for submission is October 15, 2025. Obi said: "This Future Forward Scholarship Scheme is part of our efforts to empower promising youths who would otherwise be denied the opportunity of higher education. By investing in these young people, we are investing in the future of Anambra State. We are shaping a generation of leaders, innovators, and change makers. This scholarship is more than financial aid; it is hope for brilliant youths who might otherwise be denied education. It is our modest way of securing the future of Ndi Anambra through education.” The group urged churches, schools, traditional rulers, and community leaders to help spread the information to ensure that the scholarship reaches the most deserving students across the state.

By Madu Obi The governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) for the November 8 election, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has received a major boost, as the Obi Nnewichi, Nnewi, His Highness, Obi George Onyekaba, openly declared his full support for him The declaration was made during the YPP campaign tour of Nnewi, which attracted a massive turnout of supporters and community stakeholders. Addressing the crowd, Chukwuma expressed gratitude to the people of Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo local government areas, for their support, which he described as “infectious warmth”. He assured the people that his administration would place top priority on security, promising to restore peace and order in all parts of the state within three months of assuming office. “Nnewi is the hub of commercial activities in Anambra, and without security, business cannot thrive. We will make sure that safety returns quickly so that commerce can flourish again,” he said. Chukwuma also lamented the deplorable condition of roads in Nnewi and pledged that road rehabilitation would be treated with urgency and elevated to a core priority of his government. The YPP candidate also unveiled plans for a robust policy framework to sustain and modernize the traditional apprenticeship system in the state, adding that the initiative would extend opportunities to youths without higher education, backed by a proposed ₦200 billion venture capital fund targeted at the business community. This, he said, will help the state to reclaim its dwindling advantage in commerce, industry, and innovation.

By Madu Obi Physiologists in Nigeria have designed specialist courses for its members to train in Clinical Physiology that would help to broaden the scope of the profession. At the maiden meeting of the West African College of Clinical Physiology Sciences, WACCPS, in Awka, the Provost of the College, Professor Aloamaka Peter, said the objective is to advance the field of Clinical Physiology in West Africa by providing quality training that would help to bridge the gap in the healthcare delivery system. According to him, the WACCPS is intended to advance the knowledge of Clinical Physiology Sciences and elevate the profession to a level where graduates become job creators, rather than job seekers. Among areas of specialization are renal, neuro, and cardiovascular physiology. He said: "WACCPS, as a specialized professional training institution, is dedicated to promote excellence in clinical physiology practice, education, and research across West Africa. The College strives to uphold the highest standards of clinical physiology, foster collaboration and innovation, and improve healthcare outcomes for the people of the sub region. The primary aim of WACCPS includes developing and delivering bespoke educational programms and creating comprehensive, evidence-based professional training initiatives tailored to the nuanced needs of clinical physiologists. The programms will prioritize clinical proficiency, adherence to high standards, and patient-centered care. Additionally, the College will offer specialized guidance and support to healthcare institutions, academic bodies, and professional organizations, focusing on optimizing clinical physiology practice and enhancing patient outcomes. Our goal is to achieve excellence and ensure that the quality of training enhances both medical education and healthcare delivery." National President of the Professional Association of Practicing Clinical Physiologists in Nigeria and Professional Programme Development Advisor, Ugochukwu Okeke highlighted efforts to achieve the set goals through partnerships with medical centers equipped with advanced facilities and technology. According to him, the College will also collaborate with universities that have strong Clinical Physiology Sciences departments. "We are working to meet international standards for training. Prospective trainees must first graduate in Clinical Physiology Sciences before proceeding to primary training. Afterwards, they advance to the membership cadre, where specialization occurs. Our training is predominantly practical, complemented by academic instruction," he stated. He urged universities offering Clinical Physiology Sciences programms to intensify clinical postings to health institutions to enhance students' practical skills. The Director of Research and Innovation at WACCPS and Deputy Provost of Medical Sciences at Abia State University, Professor Nwankwo Amakwe underscored the focus on practical training. "The best gift we can give to younger professionals is practical, professional training that empowers them to create jobs rather than merely seek employment", Amakwe said, and called on government agencies to partner with the institute to realize this vision. Professor Vincent Ugochukwu Igbokwe, Chair of Research Ethics and Compliance at WACCPS, described the College as a well-conceived entity designed to advance Clinical Physiology Sciences significantly. "Universities have long complained about inadequate equipment, and the institute will address this gap by partnering with standard hospitals and institutions. What we receive from universities is often limited knowledge and that is why we are focusing on true professionalization. We are also committed to providing the best possible service to society." The Liaison Officer of the College for Edo State, Dr Nwoke Ernest Onyebuchi , described Clinical Physiology Sciences as critical to the health sector, assuring that medical doctors would partner with it. "Medical doctors need Clinical Physiology Sciences expertise to function effectively in the country. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, doctors often perform multiple roles that could be better managed by specialist physiologists. It will be heartwarming to see students graduate in Clinical Physiology Sciences and become full professionals. This is a positive development that deserves adequate attention and support," he added.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State ICT Agency has set up 25 live WiFi sites across the state, as part of the implementation of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's digitization programme Managing Director of the Agency, Fred Agbata, while addressing members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, in Awka, that the sites are located in schools, lodges, public spaces, and government institutions. The hotspots, he explained, are not just infrastructure, adding that they are lifelines which democratize internet access for students, traders, civil servants, and everyday Anambra people, thereby bridging information divides and fostering inclusion. Going down memory lane, he recalled that the success of the programme began in 2022 when Governor Soludo took the bold decision to waive the Right of Way (RoW) charges for broadband infrastructure. "The Agency was established with a clear and compelling mandate to drive digital transformation in Anambra State and with the support of the governor, the operations have been running smoothly. Our role is to design, coordinate, and implement technology initiatives that make governance more efficient, inclusive, transparent, and people-centred. We exist to ensure that 'Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere” is not just a slogan, but a lived reality where government processes are digitized, citizens can access services seamlessly, and technology becomes the true backbone of governance. In fact, our mission is to build a digitally transformed Anambra to support the delivery of everything technology and technology everywhere in the state", he added. Agbata said further: "At first, it seemed like a mere policy decision, but in reality, it was the bedrock of Anambra’s digital revolution. By removing the barriers that had long stifled broadband expansion, Governor Soludo sent a powerful message, which is that Anambra is open for digital business. The governor's decision unlocked opportunities for fibre-to-home deployment, infrastructure expansion, as well as faster and more reliable internet across communities. It also created an enabling environment where innovators, telecom operators, and entrepreneurs can thrive. Simply put, it unlocked what had been locked and today, the results are visible." He said that beyond connectivity, the ICT Agency is reshaping governance itself, adding that the state Executive Council proceedings, which used to be paper-based, has now been digitized. This, he stated, has also cascaded into MDAs, thereby making civil service operations faster and smarter. He said: "From less than 300 functional computers in 2022, the state has grown to over 5,000 devices distributed across MDAs, LG Heads of Departments, including Ministries of Justice, Special Duties, the Civil Service Commission, and the Disability Rights Commission. Teachers and principals also received 2,000 laptops in 2024, with more to come under the Smart School Project." While urging the media to partner with the Agency, Agbata said the story of Anambra’s digital transformation is still unfolding, even as he noted that proper foundation has been laid. "From the quiet, yet bold RoW waiver, to the visible footprint of Solution WiFi, to the digitization of governance, what we are building under Governor Soludo is a future where technology works for the people. It is about creating a smart, liveable, and prosperous megacity, one that equips its youth, empowers its workers, strengthens its institutions, and ensures that no one is left behind", he concluded.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Police command has arrested a man who allegedly levies traders and communities in Anambra State N100,000 before they can carry out burial ceremony. The suspect, identified as Bernard Odinchefu, was alleged to be a member of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, was arrested for alleged extortion and terrorism in Ihiala Local Government Area of the State. The 62-year old suspect was also alleged to be an informant of the group and was in charge of an extortion network and anchoring a major extortion network operating in parts of Ihiala Local Government Area of the state. The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO,, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement said operatives of the command attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, arrested the suspect and alleged informant of a secessionist group. According to Ikenga, “Preliminary information reveals that the suspect is in charge of illegal levies on traders in Isseke and Orsumoghu communities, collecting N10,000 and above monthly from each trader. He is also extorting N100,000 and above from families conducting burial ceremonies before the occasion or any such related event in the area." He said that the illicit proceeds were allegedly remitted to his commander in a terrorist camp. Ikenga said that the suspect is in custody, while further investigation is ongoing. The police spokesman quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ikioye Orutugu, as assuring residents of the command’s continued commitment to dismantle criminal structures linked to insurgent groups. Orutugu said that the arrest was part of the ongoing efforts to rid the state of elements exploiting innocent citizens under the guise of agitation. Meanwhile, the IPOB has distanced itself from the act, insisting that those engaging in criminal activities in the South-East region are not its members.