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By Madu Obi The wife of the Anambra State governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo, has described the recent victory of the state branch of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria, STAN, at a competition in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as the result of the intentional huge investment in education by the state government. The STAN event involved a series of academic competitions, including quiz and project contests for students at various levels aimed at promoting and fostering students interest in Science, Technology, and Mathematics. The 36 state branches of STAN organized their competitions and the winners took part in the national competition in Abeokuta. Reacting on the emergence of Anambra as the best state branch, Mrs Soludo said: "I am super pleased to learn that Anambra won a big one at the 65th Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) Annual Conference, which just took place in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Winning the best branch of the year 2024 means that we're still walking on the right path. "I've often maintained that this administration is deeply intentional about visions, targets, and goals. We're not just investing massively in quality and all-time inclusive education; we're also attending to the most crucial needs of this important sector. The vision is simple: no Anambra child whose dream is to excel through the classroom should ever be deprived of a chance to have that lifetime opportunity. Anambra is still winning. The Solution is here."

By Madu Obi The Labour Party, LP, 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian youths to take responsibility for building a better nation by electing leaders with competence, capacity, compassion, and character. He made the call at the national youth rally marking the 40th anniversary of the Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON), hosted by the Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka. Obi decried what he called "Nigeria’s squandered opportunities", stressing that a nation so abundantly blessed with human and natural resources should not be trapped in hunger, insecurity, and bad governance. “Becoming President of Nigeria is not a disaster; the real disaster is when leaders lack the courage and the will to make the country work. We cannot remain on a path where leaders trade in lies while the people starve", Obi said. He urged the youths to register to vote, especially those who had just turned 18 years and had not registered before, reminding them that their voter’s card is their greatest weapon against bad leadership. Warning against vote-selling, Obi added: “Once you sell your vote, you have also sold your healthcare, your education, and your future. God has blessed Nigeria, but He will not come down to elect leaders for us. It is our responsibility to choose leaders who genuinely care for the people, especially the youths.” In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Paschal Udo, who is the Principal Chaplain of CYON, Awka Diocese, expressed gratitude to Obi for always making out time to be with the youths. “You may not fully realize the inspiration the young people draw simply by seeing and listening to you,” he said. Fr. Udo noted that Nigerian youths were weary of endless complaints and were now ready for decisive action. “What happened in 2023 will not repeat itself. We are determined to take our future in our own hands. In you, we see the values of honesty, integrity, and truth, and we will continue to stand with leaders like you to change Nigeria,” he said at the rally. The rally brought together thousands of Catholic youths from across Nigeria, who converged in Awka to celebrate CYON’s 40 years of existence and to reaffirm their commitment to playing a leading role in the renewal of the nation.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi In a bid to strengthening community partnership in forest protection, the Enugu State Forest Guard (ESFG) will embark on a three-day statewide stakeholder town halls from Tuesday, September 2 to Thursday, September 4, 2025. The programme will also witness the unveiling of a new transparent recruitment framework under the E3 initiative (Eligibility, Evidence, and Ethics). Making this known on Sunday, the Commander of Enugu State Forest Guard, Dr. Akinbayo Olasoji (DCP Rtd), said the town halls will hold at the headquarters of each senatorial district, namely Nsukka (for Enugu North), Agbani (for Enugu East), and Awgu (for Enugu West). He said the town hall sessions will deepen trust between the Forest Guard and local communities, ensure fair recruitment, and provide a platform to coordinate support from local governments, traditional rulers, and security agencies. According to him, “Our goal is simple: build trust, align with our communities, and deliver disciplined, lawful operations. We will listen first, agree on practical support with each LGA, and ensure recruitment is fair, community-validated, and non-politicised." The initiative is part of Governor Peter Mbah’s broader effort to secure Enugu communities, protect farmers, and eliminate criminal activities along forest corridors. Since assuming office, Governor Mbah has prioritized security and public safety as a foundation for economic growth, community development, and agricultural productivity. The stakeholder engagements will bring together traditional rulers, town unions, hunters, farmers, vigilante formations, market leaders, community-based organizations, youth and women groups, and security agencies (Police, DSS, NSCDC) to map out practical strategies for securing forests and farmlands. Olasoji further disclosed that each town hall session will focus on: Clarifying the Forest Guard's lawful role and complaint channels, strengthening community intelligence to prevent illegal logging, kidnapping, and wildlife crimes, coordinating LGA support, including office space, radios, and logistics for patrols and deconfliction with sister agencies to avoid operational clashes. The E3 Recruitment Briefings is to ensure fairness, gender inclusion, and transparency. The Commander explained that recruitment will be "open to Enugu residents aged 20–45, with a minimum of First School Leaving Certificate, proof of residency in their LGA/ward, good physical fitness, clean record, and endorsements from community leaders." He therefore, urged Ndi Enugu, particularly farmers, hunters, youths, women, town unions, market and community leaders, to turn out in large numbers and actively participate in the sessions. He said, “This is your chance to help shape how our forests and farmlands are secured. The Forest Guard belongs to the people, and it will succeed only with your involvement." The town halls will hold daily from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, followed by a closed-door security coordination meeting with agency heads and a media briefing from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah at the weekend announced the upgrading of Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo, to a University of Agriculture with another Campus at Uzo-Uwani Local Government of the state, by his administration. The university he said, would be able to produce the next generation of agricultural scientists, entrepreneurs and Innovators. Disclosing this at the Michael Okpara Square when he flagged off the free distribution of 40,000 fertilizers and other farm inputs to over 60,000 registered farmers in the state, Mbah expressed his administration's commitment to establishing a special Agro Processing Zone in order to have the capability to process, package and export value-added agricultural products and produce. The Governor said, "The aim is to make Enugu a major exporter of Agro products; while the state is about to commence the initiative with a pilot agriculture industrial hub and three agricultural transformation centres which will serve as catalyst for agro processing, job creation and rural development." The State he disclosed had already taken delivery of 102 tractors while another batch of 98 would be delivered soon, just as 800 would be assembled locally at the Nortra Assembling Plant in Enugu to enable registered farmers to have access to a mechanised farming system. Acknowledging that agriculture was the backbone of the old Eastern Region's economy, Mbah noted that his administration's investment in agriculture is central to growing the state's economy to 30 billion dollars and reducing the poverty headcount rate to zero, adding that "farming is a vocation that requires professional insights and contributions." The Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro Industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru, earlier in his address said the event signifies an affirmation that Governor Mbah is fully committed to transforming the rural communities into vibrant centres of economic growth, prosperity and a symbol of hope and resilience, adding that "agricultural sector in Enugu State has never had it so good before now." In their remarks, the Enugu Farm Estate Consultant, Alhaji Friday Sani-Nnaji, and the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Hon. Ejike Eze, commended the governor for the lofty achievements in the agric sector, agreeing that food security is sacrosanct in the state by next year, 2026. Over 100 tractors, 40,000 bags of fertiliser, and several other farm inputs were distributed to registered farmers in the state at the event.

Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries plc, Sarah Agha ( 2nd left) with other invitees at the Afiaolu Nnewi festival By Madu Obi The Life Continental Lager Beer, has elevated the annual Afiaolu Nnewi cultural festival to higher level with the introduction of new innovation in this year's ceremony. Celebrating the resilience and drive of Nnewi people, Life Beer demonstrated its love for the people's culture by sponsoring the 2025 Afiaolu festival. Among the highlights in this year's festival were the wrestling, cooking and female football competitions in which the four communities of Uruagu, Nnewichi, Otolo and Umudim vied for honours. Governor Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, who was represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Don Onyenji was pleasantly surprised at the Innovation introduced in this year's festival. While commending Life Beer for the spectacle sponsorship, he observed that the bold participation of the brand has elevated the cultural festival to an enviable status of a tourist attraction. According to him, the massive attendance of people from several parts of the world attested to the importance Afiaolu is assuming. He commended the people of Nnewi for taking their culture to a higher level as this year's Afiaolu brought in many innovations, especially with the celebration of the event at the famous Nkwo Nnewi Triangle. The governor said: "Nnewi is important to Anambra State because of its economic viability, which is why the administration is upgrading infrastructure through massive road construction. Nnewi is the Japan of this state and beyond. What Nnewi is bringing to the table is not surprising because this is the town that produced the first Nigerian millionaire and it was he that provided the limousine that drove Queen Elizabeth around when she visited the country. One of the most famous transporters in Nigeria also came from Nnewi and the late Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu is from Nnewi. There are also new generation of Nnewi millionaires who are contributing their quota to transform the community". Addressing the mammoth crowd of the attendees, the Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, brewers of Life Beer, Sarah Agha, expressed joy that the people of Nnewi and their traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III welcomed Life Continental Lager Beer warmly, making it possible for the brand to boldly immerse itself in the people’s culture. She said: “We thank everybody who graced the 2025 Afiaolu. Our special thanks go to the royal fathers, ably represented by HRH Igwe Kenneth Orizu who offered us the opportunity to participate in this festival.” She added that the similarities in the brand proposition of Life Continental Lager Beer and the Nnewi people would always be a source of encouragement for the brand to continually identify with the people. She expressed confidence that the mutually rewarding relationship between Life Continental Lager and Nnewi people will continue and even be bigger next year.

By Madu Obi Former governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has donated ₦10 million to Archbishop Charles Heerey College of Health Sciences and Technology, Nkpor (ACHCOHSTEN), to support continued infrastructural development in the institution. Obi made the donation during the college’s 20th anniversary celebration, which also featured matriculation and convocation ceremonies. In his address, Obi identified the shortage of health professionals as a critical global challenge, stressing that Nigeria must train more competent hands to meet the rising demand. He urged the graduating and matriculating students to take their studies seriously and see themselves as “potential global citizens” who can contribute not only to Nigeria’s healthcare system but to the world at large. “I believe in education; I believe in building people and institutions,” Obi said, reminding them that the country is passing through difficult times and urged Nigerians to always elect leaders with competence and integrity. He commended the management of ACHCOHSTEN for the quality of training being offered, recalling how he had met graduates of the college in the United States and Britain who proudly introduced themselves as his former students during his tenure as governor. “On several occasions, I have met your graduates abroad - in America, Britain, London, and other countries - and they introduced themselves as products of this institution during my time as governor. That makes me proud,” he added. The Provost of the College, Rev. Sr. Dr. Maria Uzochukwu Ozor, traced the institution’s humble beginnings in 2005 as the School of Medical Laboratory Technicians (SOMLAN), before its transformation into a full-fledged multi-departmental college. She praised Obi’s consistent support over the years, recalling that apart from donating two coaster buses and building a female hostel, he had remained a steadfast benefactor. She highlighted the school’s achievements, including multiple accreditations, expansion into Pharmacy Technician, Community Health, Environmental Health, and Medical Imaging/X-Ray departments, and outstanding national examination results. . She further revealed that in the past 20 years, the college had graduated over 700 health workers now practicing across the globe in countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The Superior General of the IHM Sisters, Rev. Mother Maureen Akabogu, also thanked all benefactors and prayed for God’s blessings upon them. As part of the anniversary celebrations, the college presented Obi with an “Award of Excellence” in recognition of his contributions. The highlight of the event was the launch of a commemorative book titled Growth and Wonder, authored by the Provost. In its 20 years of existence, ACHCOHSTEN has grown into a hub of health sciences education, producing distinguished graduates who are excelling globally as medical laboratory scientists, nurses, public health officers, psychologists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and religious ministers. The celebration began with a Holy Mass and featured an academic procession, book launch, awards, matriculation, and convocation ceremonies.

By Madu Obi The All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate for the November 8 Anambra election, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu has appointed the former Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service, Chief Chido Obidiegwu as the Director of Media and Communication of his campaign organisation. Obidiegwu's mandate is to design and drive a formidable communication strategy that will resonate deeply with Ndi Anambra and mobilize massive support for the Ukachukwu–Ekwunife governorship ticket ahead of the November election. Chief Obidiegwu brings to the role over three decades of robust experience spanning print, broadcast, and integrated marketing communications. A graduate of History from the University of Benin and holder of a Master’s degree in Mass Communication from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Obidiegwu is widely respected for his ability to build brands, shape narratives, and execute high-impact media campaigns. At the Anambra Broadcasting Service where he was the immediate past MD, he spearheaded the recalibration and rejuvenation of the state-owned radio and television outfit. Earlier, he served as the pioneer MD/CEO of the Anambra State Clear Drainage and Forest Preservation Agency, where he combined governance and media by creating " _You and the Environment_ ", a popular TV programme that deepened public discourse on environmental issues. Obidiegwu also served as Senior Special Assistant on Events to former Governor Willie Obiano, where he passionately promoted _Brand Obiano_ and projected the policies and achievements of the administration and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). His private sector record is equally outstanding, having led Integrated Marketing Support Services Limited, an integrated marketing communications consultancy with top-tier clientele across telecoms, oil and gas, banking, FMCG, and government sectors. At Minaj Media Group, he managed content development and airtime marketing across its broadcast platforms, facilitated exchange programmes with international networks, and marketed captivating TV contents across West Africa. Widely known for his strengths in event conceptualization, brand building, sustainability strategies, and professional public speaking, Chief Obidiegwu has modelled for both local and international brands, anchored numerous high-profile national events, and is a certified CSR Masterclass alumnus of the Lagos Business School. He is also an associate member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and a registered advertising practitioner. Speaking on his appointment, the campaign organisation expressed confidence that Chief Obidiegwu will “build a media powerhouse capable of energizing the grassroots, dominating the airwaves, shaping digital conversations, and ultimately securing the mandate of Ndi Anambra in November.” With Chief Chido Obidiegwu now confirmed as Director of media and Communications, the Ikukuoma–Iyom Campaign is set to unleash a dynamic, people-centered communication strategy that will keep Ndi Anambra at the heart of its message and momentum.

By Madu Obi The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in partnership with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has called for urgent reforms to safeguard the rights of children within Nigeria’s legal and justice systems. The call was made during the 2025 NBA Annual General Conference in Enugu, which brought together over 20,000 participants, including legal professionals, policymakers, development partners, academics, civil society, and media under the theme “Stand Out and Stand Tall.” UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Waafa Saeed said the world body and NBA reaffirmed their joint commitment to ensuring that every child, especially the most vulnerable, has access to fair, timely, and child-sensitive justice. UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed said: “Children should never be behind bars simply because of who they are or the circumstances they are born into. “Every child deserves protection, dignity, and a chance to rebuild their future. Our partnership with the NBA is about transforming the justice system into one that protects rather than punishes, empowers rather than excludes, and restores rather than breaks lives." According to her, the partnership between UNICEF and the NBA focuses on advancing reforms in four key areas namely: Promoting alternatives to detention and reducing overcrowding in juvenile facilities; Strengthening child protection systems at state and community levels; Expanding access to legal aid for children in conflict with the law; and Advocating for the full implementation of the Child Rights Act across all 36 states. UNICEF emphasized that justice for children must go beyond legal protection, ensuring empowerment, reintegration, and lasting opportunities for every child. In his remarks, the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, reaffirmed the association’s commitment towards the partnership. He stated that Nigeria has made progress in enacting child protection laws, adding, however, that enforcement remains a major challenge. "Together with UNICEF, the NBA will continue to champion reforms that align with both national and international standards for child rights. This year’s conference provides the platform to mobilize the legal community toward action. The collaboration between UNICEF and the NBA signals a growing movement within Nigeria’s legal sector to put children’s rights at the center of justice reform."

By Madu Obi The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), has commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for creating an enabling environment that has made businesses of its members to thrive in the state. National President of NACCIMA, Dr. Jani Ibrahim, who expressed appreciation to the state government for hosting them, said the third quarterly council meeting was a 'historic milestone'. He recalled that the last time NACCIMA held its meeting in the state was 16 years ago. Chairman of the Anambra Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Chidi Egemba, while showering praises on the governor said the enabling environment created by the present administration has continued to attract investors and boosting confidence in the state’s economy. According to him, it was Governor Soludo’s visionary leadership that has made Anambra a livable and prosperous for the return of the chamber’s national meeting to the state. Egemba highlighted the governor’s commitment to economic transformation, youth empowerment, digital innovation, and industrial growth, and stressed that the reforms have continued to build investor's confidence and inspiring the private sector to partner with his administration. He urged other states to borrow a leaf from Anambra’s model of inclusive governance and economic reforms. Declaring the meeting open, Governor Soludo, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Onyeka Ibezim expressed the readiness of the state to partner with the Chamber in advancing trade, commerce and industrial development. He described the hosting of the Council meeting as a sign of renewed collaboration between government and the private sector, noting that the state remains open to business with 'a heart of partnership.' The meeting deliberated on trade, industry, and investment opportunities with resolutions that would strengthen collaboration between government and the private sector, improve ease of doing business across Nigeria and expand opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi The Emeritus Bishop of Nsukka Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Francis Emmanuel Ogbonnia Okobo is dead. Aged 89, Okobo who was the pioneer Bishop of the Diocese created in 1991, died today, August 29, 2025. Confirming the demise of the late servant of God, in a message to the Priests of the diocese, Rev. Fr. Amuluche Greg Nnamani, disclosed that he died at the Niger Foundation Hospital, Enugu. His message reads, "Msgr/Frs., It is with deep pain and sorrow, yet with a total submission to the will of the Almighty God and a firm hope in the resurrection of the dead, that I announce the sad news of the passing onto glory of our Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Francis Emmanuel Ogbonnia Okobo. He died this morning, 29th August 2025 at the Niger Foundation Hospital, Enugu. Further information over this sad event will be communicated to you later. May his soul rest in peace. Amen."

By Madu Obi Police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, Awkuzu, have killed four suspected member of separatist agitators in Anambra State. The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Anambra State Vigilante Group (AVG) Agunechemba. The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga said the operatives stormed the camp at Awa, Orumba North local government area and engaged them in a battle. He said that during the well-coordinated operation that lasted for more than 15 hours, the operatives successfully dislodged the insurgents and rescued a victim who had earlier been kidnapped and held hostage in the camp. According to him, despite the payment of a ransom of ₦20 million by the victim’s family, the hoodlums refused to release him until he was eventually freed by the Joint Security Team. Ikenga stated that during the fierce gun battle that ensued, four members of the group were neutralized. He added: "Exhibits recovered at the camp include: two pump action guns, one fabricated AK-47 rifle, one K2 assault rifle, one locally made hunter gun, one radio transmission box, three locally made Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and two empty gas cylinders. Other exhibits recovered were two wraps of cable wires, three bags of 50 kg rice, one driver’s license, one National Identity Card, one black Lexus RX 350 Jeep with Reg. No. ACA 340 MA, three Toyota Camry cars with Reg. Nos: ABC 268 FQ, EKY 151 CD and FGG 706 ME. Also recovered are one black Toyota Camry car, five mobile phones (Infinix X6716B, Tecno Spark KL4 and three analogue phones, sleeping materials, one desert boot, one big cooler, and a roll of tarpaulin." Reacting on the operation, the state Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, assured that the command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring safety and security of the people. He explained that extensive operations are ongoing in the area to track down and arrest other fleeing suspects and destroy other criminal camps in the state.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Government has banned the practice of writing assignments inside textbooks, describing it as wasteful and unsustainable. The state Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, announced the directive while addressing participants at the capacity building workshop organized by the Ministry of Education for private school proprietors and teachers in Awka. According to the Commissioner, the initiative is part of the state government’s strategy to ease financial pressure on families while promoting quality and sustainable education. She explained that the decision was aimed at making textbooks reusable, especially for younger siblings of pupils who would need them when they advance to the next class. She also stressed the need for textbooks recommended in the state to be inclusive, reflecting diversity, equality, and the needs of all learners. The Commissioner warned that the state government would not tolerate non-compliance with the directive and urged parents, teachers, and school administrators to ensure strict adherence. She also encouraged stakeholders to report cases of defaulters to the Ministry of Education.