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- 10,000 Women to Benefit from Enugu First Lady's “One Woman, One Wrapper” Initiative
By Iheanyi Chukwudi No fewer than 10,000 women will benefit from the “One Woman, One Wrapper” initiative of the wife of Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah. At the flag-off of the Initiative on Tuesday, in Enugu East Local Government, the First Lady of the State, described it as a profound gesture of care, dignity, and inclusiveness for women across the state. Noting that 10,000 wrappers will be distributed to 10,000 women in the council area, she said it symbolizes solidarity, empowerment, and recognition of women’s pivotal role in family and community life. Mrs. Ḿbah who was represented at the event by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant, Special Duties, Barr. Chidimma Eguonu, commended the vision of the Executive Chairman of Enugu East Council, Engr. Pastor Beloved-Dan Anike, and his wife, Dr. Mrs. Happiness Anike, for championing the cause of women. She said, “This initiative is not just about gifting wrappers; it is a profound statement of care and respect for our women,” Mrs. Mbah said. “It aligns with the Social Inclusion and Protection pillar of my Five-Point Developmental Agenda, which seeks to ensure that women are not left behind in the drive for sustainable and inclusive development.” On his part, the Executive Chairman, Engr. Anike, described the initiative as a demonstration of compassion and unity, noting that the wrapper goes beyond fabric to represent dignity and togetherness. The women of the Council area who gathered at the ceremony were full of excitement and hailed the Governor's wife for her kind gesture. By Iheanyi Chukwudi No fewer than 10,000 women will benefit from the “One Woman, One Wrapper” initiative of the wife of Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah. At the flag-off of the Initiative on Tuesday, in Enugu East Local Government, the First Lady of the State, described it as a profound gesture of care, dignity, and inclusiveness for women across the state. Noting that 10,000 wrappers will be distributed to 10,000 women in the council area, she said it symbolizes solidarity, empowerment, and recognition of women’s pivotal role in family and community life. Mrs. Ḿbah who was represented at the event by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant, Special Duties, Barr. Chidimma Eguonu, commended the vision of the Executive Chairman of Enugu East Council, Engr. Pastor Beloved-Dan Anike, and his wife, Dr. Mrs. Happiness Anike, for championing the cause of women. She said, “This initiative is not just about gifting wrappers; it is a profound statement of care and respect for our women,” Mrs. Mbah said. “It aligns with the Social Inclusion and Protection pillar of my Five-Point Developmental Agenda, which seeks to ensure that women are not left behind in the drive for sustainable and inclusive development.” On his part, the Executive Chairman, Engr. Anike, described the initiative as a demonstration of compassion and unity, noting that the wrapper goes beyond fabric to represent dignity and togetherness. The women of the Council area who gathered at the ceremony were full of excitement and hailed the Governor's wife for her kind gesture.
- Anambra House of Assembly committee recommends 3 months suspension for PDP member
By Madu Obi The Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges has indicted the member representing Ayamelum State Constituency, Hon. Bernard Udemezue, for alleged unparliamentary conduct, inciting comments on social media, and gross abuse of legislative privileges, and recommended his suspension for three months without pay. The committee, headed by Hon Ikenga Ofodeme, also recommended that Udemezue, elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, should issue a public apology, and undergo compulsory training on parliamentary ethics and practices. The House had, in a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Tony Muobike and seconded by Hon. Jude Ngobili, accused Udemezue of using his social media platforms to make inciting comments capable of disturbing public peace and bringing disrespect to the state legislature. The Speaker, Hon Somtochukwu Udeze, subsequently referred the matter to the Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges for investigation. According to the committee, Hon. Udemezue was formally invited to appear before it to clarify the allegations, but he failed to honour the invitation. He was said to have instead, allegedly mocked the process of his invitation and went further to post the letter of invitation on his WhatsApp status. The committee also cited several petitions and reports against the lawmaker, ranging from allegations of intimidation and threats to colleagues on the Assembly’s WhatsApp group, to petitions by legal practitioners and private citizens accusing him of threats to life, unlawful interference and abuse of office. "The committee observed that during his tenure as Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland and Boundary Affairs, Udemezue was alleged to have used his position to secure the release of suspected cultists and assailants. Records also showed that between June 2024 and June 2025, he was absent for 43 out of 57 plenary sittings and was habitually late whenever he attended. Most strikingly, the lawmaker outrightly fingered the state government in the kidnap and murder of late Hon. Justice Azuka,” a former member representing Onitsha North I, linking the incident to an alleged impeachment plot against the governor", the report said. The committee also ordered Udemezue to tender a public apology to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, and to members of the Assembly, both in writing and across his social media platforms within five working days. In addition to suspending him from legislative duties for a period of three months without pay, he was also barred from entering the Assembly Complex throughout the suspension. The report also called on the Commissioner of Police and the Director of the Department of State Security, DSS, in Anambra State to investigate the lawmaker’s claims concerning the alleged plot and the murder of Hon. Azuka. It described Udemezue’s actions as a gross abuse of the oath of office and a ridicule of the institution of the House of Assembly, stressing that his actions have dented the image of the legislature. "This House cannot condone behaviors that undermine our collective integrity", it said. The recommendations, signed by Chairman Hon. Ofodeme Ikenna and ten other members, are to be considered by the full House for adoption.
- Strike looms as UNIZIK ASUU bemoans state of Nigerian universities
By Madu Obi Awka- HUNDREDS of members of Nnamdi Azikiwe University branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, hinted of an impending strike on Tuesday, as they expressed displeasure over the way both the federal and state governments are reneging on agreements concerning their welfare in government-owned universities. The ASUU members, who marched through the the Awka campus of the institution, later moved to the Enugu-Onitsha expressway where they caused traffic gridlock for about 30 minutes, to drive home their demand for immediate action by the government. Some of the placards displayed by the ASUU members read: "We teach, we care, we deserve better pay";, "We demand fair pay for fair work;" "Stop suffocating lecturers"; and "End poverty level salaries". Among their demands were conclusion of the re-negotiation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN agreement, immediate payment of three and half months withheld salaries, sustainable funding of universities, revitalization of public universities, end to the victimization of their colleges in Lagos State University, LASU, Kogi State University, KSU (now Prince AbubakarAudu University), Federal University of Technology,Owerri, FUTO, as well as payment of outstanding 25-35% salary arrears and promotion arrears for over four years. They also complained about what they called third party deductions, reminding government that the most powerful weapon against poverty, extremism and ignorance is not the bullet, but education. Chairperson of ASUU in the institution, Innocent. Nnubia, who later addressed a press conference, recalled that government made promises to address the lingering issues, regretting that all the issues were yet to be addressed. Nnubia said: "We in ASUU, Nnamdi Azikiwe University branch, want to inform the government and the general public that time is running out and we should not be held responsible if there is a breakdown of industrial harmony in our campuses. ASUU NAU calls for the immediate conclusion of the re-negotiation process of the 2009 ASUU -FGN by signing the draft agreement. The 2009 agreement was due for renew in 2012, but here we are still in the same salary after 16 years. Is this not a show of shame? As at 2009, a professor earned about $3000 in salary, but today the professor's salary is less than $400. This is pitiable and unacceptable. Government cannot continue with its delay tactics forever. The general public is invited to note that ASUU has shown great patience and has reached her limits The general public should also note that ASUU has written several letters to the FGN, drawing its attention to the need to resolve this crisis amicably. Lamentably, the FGN has always turned a deaf ear to all our pleas. We can no longer guarantee industrial harmony as our members are tired, hungry and weak. The time to act is now." On the withheld three and half months salaries by the federal government during the 2022 national strike, Nnubia said ASUU should not be blamed for strike. "Government cannot beat a child and urge him/her not to cry. The government instigated the strike by failing to honour agreements entered with the union in various memoranda of understanding and action. Moreover, our members have long completed all the outstanding academic works and therefore demand their payments", he argued. He said further: "It is really disturbing that despite the hardship being faced by members of ASUU, payment of outstanding 25-35% salary arrears is still outstanding. ASUU NAU demands the immediate payment of these arrears. As a survival strategy, some of our members embarked on thrift contribution of part of their salaries payable to some cooperative societies. These contributions were requested to be deducted from source, and remit same to the cooperative societies. It is disturbing that the federal government, after the deductions, failed to remit same to the cooperative societies. This, to us, is a deliberate act to strangulate/frustrate members of union, hence, ASUU NAU demands the immediate remittance of these monies to the respective cooperative societies as it is a criminal act to withhold third party deductions." He also lamented that several members of ASUU, who were promoted several years ago are yet to receive their promotion arrears, adding that this has drastically affected the productivity of many members. "How can one expend energy serving his or her nation in all honesty and still be denied of having access to part of his or her hard earnings? Members have really endured all sorts of manmade hardships in the hands of our so called leaders, and this has to be put to an end", Nnubia stated.
- Kidnapped Anambra politician freed after payment of ₦16m ransom, loses brother shortly after his release
By Madu Obi An Anambra politician, Hon. Ernest Okafor, who regained his freedom from kidnappers after payment of ₦16 million ransom by family, lost his brother shortly after his release. Okafor, from Awa in Orumba North local government area, who was a former aspirant for the House of Representatives, was abducted in front of his house on his return from a political event on August 16. But as the family was rejoicing over his release, his elder brother, Chief Okwuchukwu Okafor, who, until his death, was the chairman of Market 3, Eke Awka, and leader of the Eke Awka Task Force, could not survive the tension and trauma of the ordeal. “The kidnappers demanded millions, and the family had no choice but to pay. Sixteen million naira was eventually delivered before he was set free. But the celebration of his safe return was overshadowed by tragedy of his elder brother's sudden death. The passing of Okafor has plunged the Awka business community into mourning, with traders describing him as a fearless defender of the market and a man of the people," a family member said.
- To deny Mbah's transformative leadership will be sinful - Ozekhome *As Dino Melaye, other lawyers hail Mbah
Enugu State Gov. Peter Mbah exchanging pleasantries with Mike Ozekhome SAN By Iheanyi Chukwudi Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah has been commended by lawyers and participants at the ongoing Annual General Conference (AGC), of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), in Enugu, in the to for what they described as his transformative leadership in the past two years. Leading in the commendations on Tuesday shortly after the Governor’s presentation on “Leadership and Transformation,” where he showcased Enugu State, sharing practical strategies he was applying in overcoming barriers and unlocking Enugu’s opportunities, is legal luminary, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN). Ozekhome who said he was familiar with the state over the years stated that it would be evil for anyone to deny the obvious transformations under Governor Mbah. He said, “I come to Enugu every day. So, I am not a stranger at all to Enugu State. It will be difficult for me to deny that I have not seen some groundbreaking projects. To deny your transformative leadership will be sinful, and I do not want to be a sinner." He wondered how Mbah was able to “do these great things in a highly politicised environment infested by political buccaneers, and in an environment where there is more politicking than governance." For another lawyer, Senator Dino Melaye, Mbah has emerged as a pacesetter in good governance in two years. He said, “I am particularly and personally impressed with the Governor of Enugu State because all these things have been done in two years. I only can see that you think out of the box. Melaye praised the Governor for putting competence above political considerations in the recruitment of his team, saying, “Also, I am impressed with your expertise in the recruitment process, in appointing your political appointees. The intellectual sagacity displayed by them is too much. It gives hope that Nigeria can be fine again. It contributes a lot to the progress you are achieving and have achieved." Earlier in his presentation, Governor Mbah observed that transformational leadership demanded the audacity to envision something beyond low expectations, insisting that such leaders must ground their work in vision, values, and a disruptive strategy to achieve the desired results. “Our vision was to grow Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion, to reduce the poverty headcount to zero, and to make Enugu the preferred destination in Nigeria for business, for tourism, and for living. We imagined a state that, within eight years, would be completely unrecognisable from the one we inherited." Ḿbah explained that such humongous vision and targets could not be wished into existence, hence the state’s huge investments in drastic crime reduction and the building of infrastructure to power business, tourism, and investment. He said, “None of our visions and targets would have been possible without security. So, from the outset, we built a tech-driven, intelligence-led security architecture anchored in our Command and Control Centre. “With round-the-clock AI surveillance across our neighbourhoods, integrated response units (DRS), and community partnership, Enugu has recorded an over 80% reduction in violent crime. “This stability is the bedrock upon which investment, jobs, and society can grow.”
- NBA Conference: Lawyers Visit ‘Politically Imprisoned’ Lawyer, Ngene
By Iheanyi Chukwudi Fiery Warri-based legal practitioner, John Aikpokpo-Martins on Monday led a group of lawyers to visit their colleague and Labour Party Member-Elect, Hon. Barr. Bright Ngene, at the Enugu Correctional Centre. The visit is the aftermath of a peaceful protest by a cross section of Enugu residents who are unhappy with the continued incarceration of Ngene whom they voted to represent them in the Enugu State House of Assembly. Ngene was declared winner of the Enugu South Urban rerun election held recently, by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) but had been in detention. Aikpokpo-Martins who led volunteer lawyers to the Enugu Correctional Centre after the protesters stormed the International Conference Centre Enugu, venue of the NBA Annual General Conference had Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Kunle Edun, in his company. The protesters today described Ngene as a “politically imprisoned” candidate and called for his freedom. Meanwhile, Aikpokpo-Martins had at the visit expressed concern that Ngene is “being denied access to justice by the legal profession itself.” The visit of the lawyers has given the people joy and hope that it might make justice possible for the lawyer and lawmaker-elect.
- Protesters hit Enugu streets, as NBA AGC enters day *Demand Lawyer Bright Ngene's release from prison
By Iheanyi Chukwudi A cross section of Enugu residents on Monday stormed the streets of the Coal City in protest against the imprisonment of Mr Bright Ngene, a member of the Labour Party and member elect of the State House of Assembly. Ngene, a lawyer, was recently declared winner of alternation Enugu South Urban Constituency rerun election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He has been in prison for months after he was jailed by a Magistrate Court in the state, in a matter many believed was political. Apparently in need of justice for the lawyer, the residents used the opportunity of the Nigerian Bar Association Annual Conference holding in Enugu to embark on a peaceful protest to draw the attention of Nigerian lawyers to the continued incarceration of one of them in Enugu State. Prior to the rerun of the constituency election and Ngene's subsequent declaration as winner of the election, three previous attempts to hold it ended in fracas. The fourth attempt was almost marred by the altercations between the members of the People Democratic Party (PDP), and the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Hon. Uche Nnaji. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Ngene as the winner of the election days later. The protesters, who are seeking his release, described him as a prisoner of conscience, collaborating his wife's earlier statement to newsmen linking her husband's incarceration to political tussle.
- Mrs Soludo receives Nigeria's first lady of the year award
By Madu Obi Wife of the Anambra State governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has received the 2025 First Lady of the Year in Healthcare and Child Support award. Mrs Soludo was honoured at the Nigerian Humanitarian Awards & Magazine, following her impactful work through her flagship programme, 'Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo'. Her NGO, which champions community health awareness, maternal and child care and nutrition education, is targeted mainly to support underserved families in both rural and urban areas of the state. The excited Anambra first lady, in a statement said: "What began over 19 years ago as a simple passion has, now transformed into a massive crusade, and I couldn't be any less grateful for the grace of consistency and support. "Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo has come to stay. For each laurel and accolade that come our way, we take them in the manner of greater expectations. This one is special. To all my beloved Healthy Living family, all of you who come out each Saturday morning to workout with me, and to all the beautiful children in Anambra whose life and future have been reassured by what we do, this is for you. You're the pride of what we do."
- Soludo mourns the death of Chuma- Odili
Late Dr. Harris Chuma-Odili By Madu Obi Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has lamented the death of a media advocate, Dr Harris Chuma-Odiliwho on August, 23, 2025. Chuma-Odili, a native of Ogbunike , was said to have collapsed during a ceremony in the town. "In a statement by the Press Secretary to the governor, Christian Aburime, Soludo described him as a passionate advocate for responsible media practices in the South East region. Dr. Chuma-Odili’s contributions to the field of journalism and media advocacy have had a significant impact on our community, promoting ethics, accountability, and civic engagement. His dedicated efforts in fostering media literacy and empowering citizens through informed discourse have left a lasting legacy that will be cherished by many. The loss of Dr. Harris Chuma-Odili is a profound one for Anambra State. He was a visionary leader who tirelessly championed the cause of truth in journalism and worked diligently to create a more informed and engaged society. His passion for advocacy and commitment to elevating the voices of ordinary citizens serves as an inspiration to us all", the governor said. He extended heartfelt condolences to Chuma-Odili’s family, friends, and colleagues and encouraged citizens of the state to celebrate his life and contributions, reflecting on the impact he made on media and public advocacy during his lifetime.
- Anambra guber poll: National Peace Committee identifies expected flashpoints *As stakeholders proffer solution
By Madu Obi The National Peace Committee, NPC, chaired by the former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, through its secretariat ,The Kukah Centre, has identified expected flashpoints ahead of the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State. Of the 21 local government areas of the state, seven, namely, Awka South, Awka North, Ihiala, Nnewi South, Idemili North, Orumba South and Ayamelum, were said to be areas that need special attention. The listed local government areas are either prone to the activities of separatist movement and kidnappers, or associated with cultism and political thuggery. At the European Union-sponsored stakeholders validation forum organized separately for the three senatorial zones of the state as part of a broader initiative to support peaceful, inclusive, and credible gubernatorial election, the Kukah Center urged the stakeholders to be alive to their responsibilities to avoid election violence. The support came through the EU’s flagship democracy programme, European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN), which aims to support the government’s efforts in strengthening democracy in Nigeria. At the Awka meeting, the stakeholders also looked at the reasons for the low voter turnout during elections and suggested ways to improve voter participation. Diverse groups, including electoral bodies, security agencies, political parties, traditional and religious organizations, civil society groups, the media, as well as youth and women networks, aired their views and expressed commitment to ensure the success of the Anambra governorship election. Addressing the participants, Deborah Obafemi of the Kukah Center, reminded them that they could help shape a peaceful electoral process that restores public confidence, promotes participation, and strengthens democracy in Anambra State. "As we are all aware, Anambra is approaching a pivotal moment with the upcoming off-cycle election. The forum is not just a meeting; it is a call to collective responsibility. We are here to validate findings from a comprehensive context analysis, share insights, identify risks, and most importantly, co-create actionable solutions that reflect the realities and aspirations of Anambra people. We believe that peace building and electoral credibility must be built from the ground up, with your voices, your leadership, and your commitment" Obafemi said. The traditional ruler of Nawgu, Dunukofia local government area, Igwe George Okaa-Onwuogu, in his address, said since about 75% of the electorate reside in the rural areas, more attention should be placed there in terms of voter education. He said: "We the traditional rulers are at the grassroot and have been trying our best to educate our people on the need to play mature politics. For the forthcoming election, we will tell our people what to do, and how to behave during the election. Sometimes the politicians try to embarrass the traditional ruler of the community by virtually pressurizing him to force his subjects to vote for him and it also good that politicians who usually do all the things were part of this meeting and we hope they would change their behavior before, during and after the election. We must preach and ensure that peace reigns because election should not be a do or see afair. We're more prepared for a peaceful and credible election than the politicians." The Monarch commended the Kukah Center for the enlightenment programme, advising, however, that it should also monitor the election and make recommendations to ensure that the efforts were not in vain. Another traditional ruler, Igwe Emeka Ilouno of Ifitedunu observed that rules are not in short supply in the country, adding that the problem is implementation. "Voter education is necessary to help douse the current tension in the state ahead of the polls. We need to carry the voters along and using the traditional rulers, there will be more confidence in the system" he stated. Managing Director of Anambra State Civic and Social Reformation Office, Sir Chuka Nnabuife said there is so much expectation and anxiety concerning the election because many key actors are not performing their duties as they ought to. According to him, voter education should not be left only for the INEC and National Orientation Agency, NOA, adding that faith -based organizations and town union leaders should also enlighten the people. "This is August and women are holding their annual meetings and they are not talking about the election which is just few months away", he noted
- Archbishop Ibezim cleared of allegations in Awka Diocese
By Madu Obi The Archbishop on the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Revd Alexander Ibezim has been exonerated of the allegation of financial impropriety and irregularities in land transaction in Awka Diocese. Two members of the church, Bonti Onuigbo and a lawyer, had filed a petition questioning some actions taken on behalf of the Diocese by the Archbishop. However, at an emergency session convened by the diocesan board, the members unanimously cleared Archbishop Ibezim of any wrongdoing. In a resolution, the board dismissed the petition, describing it as “false, baseless, and politically motivated,” noting that all land sales in the diocese were transparently conducted and properly documented. The Archdeacon of St. Faith Cathedral, Awka, Venerable Samuel Okonkwo, said the petitioner lacked standing, adding that Onuigbo is neither a registered member of the Cathedral, nor a stakeholder in the Diocese. According to him, internal matters of the Church must be raised by those who are truly part of its life and witness. Financial officers of the Diocese, including the Treasurer, Prof. Clifford Nwanna and Financial Secretary, Mrs. Lovelyn Umeh, presented records indicating that proceeds from land sales were duly paid into the diocesan account. Also, the Secretary of the land committee, Ven. Jason Onyeakagbusi, confirmed that records of diocesan property dated back to the era of late Archbishop Maxwell Anikwenwa, describing the petition as “misleading.” On the allegation regarding staff retrenchment, Ven. B. K. Ofili said rather that the Diocese had, under Archbishop Ibezim, created new institutions that generated employment. He cited the establishment of Paul University, Awka; the Archbishop Alexander Ibezim College of Education, Nibo-Nise; Millennium College of Nursing Sciences, Awka; Renaissance Modern Polytechnic, Mbaukwu; and several schools across the Diocese. Other diocesan leaders, including Prof. Emma Ezenwaji, President of the Council of Knights, and Sir Okey Chukwuogor, affirmed that synod had long ago adopted the policy of treating some diocesan lands as “investment property,” well before Archbishop Ibezim assumed office. “The petition constitutes a false allegation aimed at tarnishing the good image of His Grace, The Most Revd Alexander Chibuzo Ibezim and ridiculing the reputation of the Diocese and the Church of God", the resolution read A senior cleric, Venerable Ifeanyi Umeh, who reacted on the issue, alleged that internal opposition was being fuelled by lingering disputes over land issues involving a certain prominent lawyer in the Diocese He said that Archbishop Ibezim’s efforts to safeguard diocesan property had unsettled some individuals, leading to attempts to discredit him. “Because our Archbishop insisted on transparency, some individuals are resorting to false accusations and blackmail,” Umeh said. “The integrity of the Church remains intact. We stand firmly behind our Archbishop,” a senior member of the church said.
- Enugu, home of hospitality, set for NBA Conference - Osigwe *As Obasanjo, Malema, over 20,000 Lawyers Converge on the Coal City
By Iheanyi Chukwudi Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, has expressed happiness over the preparedness of Enugu State to host about 20,000 lawyers for the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) of the association. Already, the Coal City capital of the old Eastern Region, is a beehive of activities as former President Olusegun Obasanjo, firebrand South African politician, Julius Malema, and others converge for the conference which formally opens tomorrow, Sunday. Osigwe, who relished the thrilling moments already being experienced in Enugu, told newsmen yhat the city was a befitting venue for the theme of the conference, “Stand Out, Stand Tall.” The NBA President, who on Saturday led thousands of lawyers in a health walk across major roads in the capital city, described the state as home of hospitality, beauty, and peace. He said, "Enugu is the capital of the South East region and also the home of hospitality, beauty, and peace. That was why we chose Enugu State to host our conference after moving from Port Harcourt. So, we are here in Enugu to enjoy the best that the people have to offer and also have a conversation about building Nigeria and making it an economic giant in Africa. Enugu is set, we are so excited. Our keynote speaker, Julius Malema, is on the ground in Lagos and will touch down here tomorrow (Sunday). Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, the former president who will chair the opening ceremony, will also be on the ground tomorrow. We are all set, we are so excited. We are going to make this a never-to-be-forgotten experience, the type that will make you want to come back every time for a conference in Enugu." Also speaking to newsmen, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, assured participants of a memorable experience, noting that Governor Peter Mbah had long prepared the state for large events like the NBA’s AGC. The state government he said had strategically prepared Enugu to host conferences like that of the NBA and many others. He said, "The Enugu State Government under Dr. Peter Mbah, in its design and thinking around tourism, hospitality, and economic growth, had already factored in most of what you are seeing in preparation right now. Even without the NBA’s plan to come, we had already started planning what would happen if the NBA came here, if the Nigerian Society of Engineers came here, or others. Not too long ago, Enugu Air was commissioned; not too long ago, our 100 CNG buses and five modern transport terminals were commissioned. The reconstructed and revamped Hotel Presidential was also unveiled, just to name a few. We want to ensure that when people come here, they move around easily, feel safe, and even love to live here. We are grateful to the NBA for choosing Enugu and believe that they will have a memorable experience during their stay.” One of the lawyers already in the state, Barr. Favour Abraham from Minna, Niger State, said she was looking forward with excitement to a memorable experience in Enugu. She said,, "This is my second time in Enugu. I came here for the NBA conference in 2003. So, it has been 20 years. Today, it is a beautiful city. At least from the airport, we had Enugu State CNG buses actually waiting for us. The people here are hospitable. I can say Igbo people are very warm and welcoming. Enugu has changed, and it is a beautiful city. So, we are here to explore, attend our conference, gain more skills and knowledge, and then enjoy Enugu to the fullest. We have beautiful things like okpa, isiewu, abacha and more. At least we are coming from the North, and we would love to explore the city."



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