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By Madu Obi The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike has said that the state governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo is more concerned about the welfare of the people, noting that even with the November 8 election only few days away, contractors are busy working on projects being executed by the governor. Obidike, who spoke while conducting select journalists round some of the health facilities built by the Soludo administration, stressed that while politicians think of the next election, statesmen like Professor Soludo, think of the welfare of the next generation. Among the health facilities visited by the Journalists include the newly commissioned Anaku General Hospital in Ayamelum local government area, the Specialist Hospital, Fegge in Onitsha South, the high profile Trauma Center located within the premises of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital,Amaku, Awka, the Rehabilitation Center at Nibo, Awka South local government area and the Oxygen Plant at the Enugwu Ukwu General Hospital in Njikoka local government area. He explained that Governor Soludo deliberately built five brand new general hospitals in Anambra North senatorial zone where none existed, adding that he capped it up with the introduction of free antenatal care and delivery in all government- owned hospitals in the state. Already, all the new hospitals have been fully equipped and hundreds of workers recruited to man the facilities. According to Obidike, no fewer than 175 women have benefitted from the free delivery service since its introduction, adding that even after birth, the government continues to cater for every child by providing free healthcare services and free education up to SS3 level. "The situation in Anambra is that once a baby is conceived, government starts taking responsibility until the child gets to SS3. This is a novel policy and I don't think anybody will do something better than this", he stated. Listing some of the state government's achievements in the health sector, the Commissioner said Governor Soludo has established the Anambra State Emergency Medical Service, which is serviced by full compliments of professional health workers. He said that more than 40 ambulances are attached to the health facilities to avoid a situation whereby patients would be made to suffer during emergencies. He stated that some private sector people are partnering with government on the emergency health project because "we don't want anyone to suffer due to neglect in health care delivery. He said that the new Specialist Hospital at Fegge has everything, while all categories of doctors have been recruited to work there. "All the necessary equipment have been procured and are being installed for official take off any time from now. It has trauma, neurology, gynaecology, dialysis centers, and the laboratory is comprehensive such that whatever test that is required is conducted in house. "Every room/ ward is piped with oxygen and there is an alarm when there is any need for emergency. The trauma center is built to provide comfort for patients and those who look after them. The trauma center located inside the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital was conceived to provide high quality service and it is a full hospital inside a hospital. "Oxygen plants were built at Enugwu Ukwu and at the Federal Medical Center Onitsha before before it was taken over by the federal government. The oxygen plants supply to all health facilities in the state at a very low cost as the idea is not to maximize profit. We are fighting the existence of illegal hospitals and we have had cause to close down two baby factories. In Enugwu Ukwu General Hospital, for instance, five of them from the baby factories were born and people had already paid for the babies. If it's a girl, they pay N1.8m and if it's a boy they pay over N2 million". "The oxygen plant at Enugwu Ukwu supplies oxygen to all the hospitals in the state and the hospital has been upgraded with specialists manning all areas The Rehabilitation Center at Nibo is one project that is very important to the people of the state. There are recreational facilities and the environment is suitable for medical treatment and mental recovery. There is skills acquisition center where the inmates could learn trades. There is also the Nise eye care center which the community built and abandoned and the state government rehabilitated and equipped it. "We have also rehabilitated the Umueri General Hospital, as well as those in Enugwu Ukwu and Ekwulobia.We also rehabilitated Nnobi General Hospital which was abandoned and the people are enjoying the facility. Same for General Hospital Awkuzu in Oyi local government area." He said that the Soludo administration has rehabilitated 130 Primary Healthcare Centers, noting that even ultimate goal is to have functional PHC in all the 326 political wards and one General Hospital in all the 21 LGAs. One significant feature of the Anambra State health facilities is that they are all provided with solar lights to ensure uninterrupted power supply. He added: "Our teaching hospital is now a truly tertiary health institution. Every drug to be used in our health facilities are tested in the state of the art laboratory, so that the era of people consuming low quality and adulterated drugs would be over. "We started telemedicine which has taken health care delivery in the state to the next level. We have intensified training in this area to ensure that health workers understand the operation properly." "We have recruited 1500 health workers and we have doubled salaries of our health workers. We are targeting to be the state with the highest number of healthcare workers with the possibility of even exporting them. This is why there is need for continuity to enable the people enjoy what this government has planned for the people".

By Madu Obi The people of Ayamelum local government area have poured encomium on Governor Chukwuma Soludo for giving them a fully equipped brand new General Hospital at Anaku, the local government headquarters. The hospital, which is already providing comprehensive health services to the people, was commissioned by Governor Soludo last week. Since then, there has been heavy patronage by patients, who before now, had to travel to Otuocha and other local government areas to have treatment. President General of Anaku, Paul Nwuba, said Governor Chukwuma Soludo has reduced their suffering while trying to access health care. "We want to appreciate Governor Soludo for building this General Hospital for us. We have been clamouring for a health facility for years and we are happy that at last we have it. We also commend the Commissioner for health for ensuring that the hospital is fully staffed and equipped. I'm here on behalf of Anaku Community and these people with me are members of the ruling age grade in the community and we want to say, thank you Mr. Governor. This General Hospital is our own and we promise to protect it because it is our people that are enjoying the facility. For remembering is in this way, we assure him that the people of Ayamelum will vote massively for him on November 8 so that his good work will continue. Nwuba also spoke on the recent incident in the hospital where some people believed to be from an opposition political party, invaded the hospital after it was commissioned by Soludo and alleged that nothing was happening there. Nwuba said: 'We learnt that some people went to the social media to claim that nothing is happening in the hospital when people were even on admission and receiving first class treatment. Anaku people are not part of that shameful behavior and we promise Governor Soludo that we will deal decisively with those who tried to tarnish the image of Anaku in our own way. We will look into the matter and report back to government. We apologize for whatever that happened as those behind the dastardly act were only interested in playing politics with the welfare of our people". Some patients who were admitted in the hospital said they were in the Ward when some people started knocking on the door. "They frightened us, but when security men rushed to the gate, those people ran away", Mr. Anthony Onochie, who had a surgery in the hospital said. He said that he had suffered for 17 years because he didn't have money to treat himself, adding, "now, Soludo has done it for me free of charge and I am eternally grateful to his administration." Okoye Uche, another person on admission said: "I was operated upon here before it was officially commissioned. I don't know why some people should be playing politics with something we are all seeing and enjoying."

By Madu Obi The Anglican Bishop of Amichi Diocese, Rt Revd Ephraim Ikeakor, has lauded the former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi for what he described as an uncommon commitment to public service and human development. The Bishop spoke during Obi’s visit to the College of Nursing Sciences at the Diocesan Hospital, Amichi, where the former governor donated ₦5 million to support ongoing infrastructural development. Bishop Ikeakor noted that he had yet to encounter a politician whose concern for the people is as genuine and consistent as Obi’s. He stressed that Obi’s philanthropic interventions are never tied to political ambition, saying, “Whether he is contesting election or not, he continues to support institutions that serve society. I have not seen a politician like him.” The cleric recalled that Obi’s visits to the hospital had become a yearly tradition, adding that he often reached out himself to confirm the visit. According to him, such consistency reflects Obi’s sincerity and passion for community upliftment. Speaking on behalf of the students, the Students’ Union Leader, Mr Onyedika Otubaluonye, described Obi as a blessing to the school and the wider community. He recalled the ambulance donated by Obi, noting that the institution has continued to benefit from his benevolence. Obi also visited Immaculata Girls’ Secondary School, Nnewi, where he received a warm welcome from the students. Miss Ilikandu Mmasichukwu, speaking on their behalf, said the school still enjoys the benefits of buses, computers, and generators donated during Obi’s tenure as governor. While appreciating past interventions, she appealed for additional support, including a Coaster bus, a Hilux vehicle, laptops for WAEC CBT examinations, and solar power. At St Felix Hospital, Nnewi, Obi again commended the commitment of the medical team and donated another ₦15 million to enhance healthcare services. The Manager of the hospital, Rev Fr Peter Ugochukwu, who recalled that Mr Peter Obi had visited them in 2023, said they were very proud to see him again and to be associated with him. He said plans were underway to acquire a permanent site, build a multi-specialty hospital, and establish a School of Nursing and Midwifery. Responding at the events, Obi reiterated his message on purposeful leadership, stating that society must celebrate leaders who serve humanity with sincerity. He praised Bishop Ikeakor for his dedication to the Church and the community, describing him as “a cleric whose integrity and service I deeply admire.” Addressing the students of Immaculata Girls’ Secondary School, Obi encouraged them to take their education seriously, assuring them that education remains the most powerful tool for global relevance. “With education,” he said, “you can become another Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Prof Chinyere Okunna, or Chimamanda Adichie.” He promised to support the school’s requests. At St Felix Hospital, Obi said he had come to contribute to efforts to strengthen the hospital so that it can continue serving God through serving humanity. He encouraged the healthcare workers and urged them not to relent in their efforts to deliver quality care.

Hon. Shedrack Azubuike By Madu Obi The Mayor of Orumba South local government area of Anambra State, Hon. Shedrack Azubuike, has banned political and social gatherings in schools during official hours in the area, reaffirming his administration’s zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized gatherings Azubuike recently halted an unapproved political campaign at St. Augustine Primary School, Umunze following reports that a political rally was taking place within the school premises during official hours without clearance from the local government authority. Hon. Azubuike, who arrived at the venue, ordered the immediate dismantling of the canopies and directed organizers to vacate the area, pending the presentation of an official clearance letter. Speaking at the scene, the Local Government chairman said the activity violated a directive issued on August 14, 2025, which prohibits political, religious or social events in public and private schools within the state during school hours. According to him, the noise and disruption from such gatherings interfere with teaching and learning, recalling that the Anambra State Ministry of Education had, in August, 2025, issued a circular banning the use of school premises for political, social and religious gatherings. “There is a circular titled 'Restriction on Political, Religious and Social Gatherings in Schools During School Hours'.This enforcement is not against any group; It is to maintain peace, order and public safety in line with our council’s regulations. So, any group or individual seeking to use a school facility must first obtain written clearance", he said. He warned that school heads and proprietors who fail to enforce the directive would face administrative or legal sanctions. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that all public gatherings in Orumba South comply with established administrative and safety standards.

By Madu Obi A cross section of Anambra residents has given reasons why they have decided to vote for the incumbent governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo during the November 8 gubernatorial election. Essentially, they are saying that should Soludo not win, all the ongoing road construction in many parts of the state and other development projects will become abandoned projects. Almost all communities in the three senatorial zones of the state have become construction sites and even as the election is about ten days away, work is still ongoing on most of the roads. For instance, construction work on the 1.6kilometer Adili-Park road expected to boost activities at the building materials market in Nnewi is seriously progressing. Governor Chukwuma Soludo flagged off the construction ceremony, with a promise that it would be completed within the agreed contract time. By the governor's calculation, the road construction would be completed in three-months time. Similarly, the Saint Stephen’s Road project in Inland Town, Onitsha, which the governor flagged off some months ago is also progressing. During the ceremony, the governor said his administration is also focusing on environmental cleanup, citing the desalting works, clearing of refuse dumps, and rehabilitation of slum areas as efforts to have a liveable Anambra State. “What I say I do; I am not a politician who speaks with four sides of the mouth; there is no room for abandoned projects. When I came, I met several roads that were flagged off all over the place and I went ahead to complete them", he said. Some people who spoke about the forthcoming election, said that the governor has done so well and therefore deserves to be reelected. Mr. Anselm Okemuo, who is from Umuhu village, Okija in Ihiala local government area, said that as far as the people of the area are concerned, Soludo is their choice. He said: "In the past, coming to our village was so difficult that everyone avoided coming home until the end of the rainy season because the road leading to Umuhu from Nkwo Okija was too bad. Commercial motorcycle operators who could risk it were charging us so much, such that people avoided coming home. People's homes were also flooded and life was hellish for everybody. Then came the administration of Governor Soludo who sent contractors that earlier abandoned the work, back to sight. Today, driving to Umuhu and Ubahuezike villages are delightful. Even with the heavy rains, residents are no longer afraid that flood might submerge their homes, as the drainage was excellently done. For rescuing us and solving that problem of bad road for us, we have decided to vote for Soludo on November 8 and we do not need any inducement to do that." Mr Okechukwu Nnaka from Ekwulobia said before now, he never believed that Ekwulobia town would be one of the best urban towns in Anambra State. The ultramodern market, the Ekwulobia flyover, the dual carriage way and erosion control have brought the area at par with other cities and, for that reason, the people have decided to vote for Soludo. Nnaka recalled the traffic gridlock that was usually experienced at Ekwulobia during festive periods, adding that Soludo had brought that hardship to an end with his urban renewal project. "We are happy with the APGA government and we want Soludo to continue. If the people expect the Amawbia- Agulu- Ekwulobia - Uga dual carriage way under construction to be completed in a record time, then Soludo has to remain the governor for the next four years", Nnaka said. An Awka indigene and lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Austin Nonyelu said there is no need to change a performing governor, adding that his people in Awka are united in the decision to return Soludo on November 8. He said: "We thank Governor Soludo for giving Awka South the post of deputy governor. Our people know where we're going to. Solution is here. What we're only talking about is the margin of our victory. In the past, voter aparthy was so much and our expectation is that the November 8 election will be different as we expect every voter to participate effectively. Soludo has transformed the once glorified capital to a real capital city, such that all parts of Awka have become a modern city, with good road network."

By Madu Obi The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been commended for the recent extension of the period for the collection of the Permanent Voters Cards (PVC) by citizens. The Commission had announced an extension of the ongoing distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Anambra State at the expiration of the initial approved period so as to enable more citizens more time and opportunity to pick their PVCs at all designated collection points. The Anambra State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu in a statement, commended INEC "for the thoughtful decision" On its own, the Commission noted that the move, according to a statement from its Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Mrs. Victoria Eta-Messi, was due to "numerous appeals from citizens and stakeholders who requested more time for eligible voters to collect their cards. "Originally scheduled to end on Sunday, October 26, the exercise will now continue from Wednesday, October 29, to Sunday, November 2, 2025. The extension specifically covers voters who registered during the recent Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in the state." INEC therefore encouraged all registered voters who have not picked up their PVCs to seize this period of extension opportunity to visit their designated collection centres across the 326 Registration Areas (Wards) in Anambra State. It reiterated that the collection of PVCs must be done in person, and that no proxy collection would be allowed. Consequently, Prince Ukachukwu urged all electorate, potential voters, especially his supporters across the state, to use the extension and visit the designated areas near them to pick their PVCs so as to vote for APC and himself on Now 8,2025. Also, the Deputy National chairman of the Accord Party, Hon Innocent Igboekwe has added his voice to the call for citizens to use the extension to make out time and go pick up their cards. He urged Accord Party members across Anambra State to support Ukachukwu and APC for a renewed hope and better life across Anambra State. Accord Party leaders from the 21 Councils of Anambra State had paid a solidarity visit to Ukachukwu, promising to back him up with their votes on Nov 8, 2025 election.

By Madu Obi Operatives attached to the Onitsha 3 3 Police Station, in collaboration with the Agunechemba Security, Nkwelle-Ezunaka Unit, have arrested a 23- year old Okonkwo Onyinye, believed to be an accomplice in a reported case of armed robbery and kidnap incident. The team also recovered a snatched Toyota Highlander SUV of the victim in Ogidi. According to the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, preliminary information revealed that the victim was double-crossed by five armed men operating in a Toyota Corolla car at Nkwelle GRA gate. Ikenga said the suspects forcefully placed the victim in the boot of his vehicle and drove off to a bush in Umuoji Town, Idemili North local government area, where they dispossessed him of his phone and transferred the sum of ₦24 million from his account before abandoning him and escaping with the vehicle. "Following the report, the Joint Security Team, acting on technologically driven intelligence, traced the movement of the suspects to Nawfia, Njikoka local government area and subsequently to Ogidi, Idemili North, where the armed hoodlums engaged the operatives in sporadic gunfire before fleeing the scene", the PPRO said. He said that the white coloured Toyota Highlander, with registration number, RBC 649 CN, was recovered and the female accomplice, Okonkwo Onyinye, was later arrested at the scene. "She is currently assisting Police detectives with credible information that will aid in the arrest of other fleeing gang members", Ikenga stated.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Police command has rescued a one-week old baby girl allegedly trafficked in Anambra State and arrested four female suspects in connection with the incident. The rescue operation was carried out by operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, in the early hours today 28th October, 2025, following a credible intelligence information. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operatives stormed a location identified as Mama Maternity situated at Ifite-Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area, adding that four people were arrested. The suspects include Elizabeth Okafor 62 years, Esther Nweke 48 years, Ngozi Maanfa 45 years and Peace Elijah Moses 25 years respectively. Ikenga said preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects conspired among themselves and allegedly purchased a newborn baby girl, barely a week old, for the sum of ₦1,700,000.00. "They had reportedly paid an advance sum of ₦350,000.00 (Three hundred and fifty thousand Naira) to the purported biological mother of the child, identified as Peace Elijah Moses, who is among the arrested persons. The baby girl has been safely rescued and is currently under protective care, while the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State command, CP Ikioye Orutugu has ordered the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) Gender Unit, Awka, for discreet investigation and necessary prosecution", the PPRO ññ

By Madu Obi Thousands of enthusiastic residents from the 15 political wards in Onitsha North local government area have expressed their unwavering support for the reelection of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. At a campaign ally in the commercial city, it was obvious that the grassroots backing for the governor as he campaigns for the second term of four years is growing by the day. Addressing the mammoth crowd, Governor Soludo acknowledged the significant turnout, saying, "Four years ago, having this large number of people was inconceivable in Onitsha North, but today, we are here in Onitsha. Our coming is in continuation of the state-wide campaign." He emphasized the importance of their support, expressing gratitude for their previous votes to him.“We will not take your vote for granted. Thanks for voting for us resoundingly four years ago. This mammoth crowd is a testimonial on itself.” The Governor used the occasion to highlight the achievements of his administration, noting, "As we drove from Awka to this place, Anambra is busy... Anambra is back and safe." He detailed key infrastructure projects, including major road developments such as the Trans Nkisi Road and Akpaka Road, among others, along with the revitalization of public water schemes. "We have done a lot in all sectors of the state economy... we are just getting started," he affirmed. Governor Soludo also reiterated his commitment to free and fair elections, declaring, "We in APGA stand for one man, one vote—credible, transparent, free, and fair elections. We are ready to collaborate with INEC to ensure this." During the event, several speakers expressed their appreciation for Governor Soludo's impactful initiatives in the state and region, including the free antenatal care and delivery services, one youth two skills programme, among others. The Mayor of Onitsha North, Tony Nworah, remarked, "Governor Soludo has been a beacon of hope for our community. His efforts in transforming our infrastructure and services have truly made a difference." Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, echoed these sentiments, stating, "Under Governor Soludo's leadership, we have seen unprecedented growth and opportunities for our youth. He is indeed the solution that works for Anambra!" Adding her voice, Barrister Mimi Azikiwe, the member representing Onitsha North Constituency 1 said, "The governor's vision for development is inspiring, and his commitment to our community is evident in every project undertaken. We are fortunate to have a leader who listens and acts on behalf of the people." Together, they united in gratitude for the strides made during Governor Soludo's regime, emphasizing the collective belief that his administration is fostering a brighter future for Onitsha North. The event took a dramatic turn when a 92-year old woman who insisted on attending the rally to see the Governor, reached out and rendered prayers of success for the Governor. Over N30 million was donated to the Governor by the people as campaign support.

By Madu Obi The chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has assured Nigerians that the Commission is fully prepared for the November 8, 2025, Anambra State governorship election. Speaking at the meeting of the inter-agency consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) held at INEC Headquarters, Abuja, Prof. Amupitan said the Commission had concluded a comprehensive readiness assessment across the state and was confident of a smooth conduct of the election. He said that 24,000 personnel would be deployed across 5,718 polling units, with results collated at 326 wards, 21 local government areas, and the State Collation Centre in Awka. He also noted that voting would not take place in two polling units due to the absence of registered voters. The INEC chairman alsoannounced the extension of the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection exercise in Anambra State from Wednesday, October 29 to Sunday, November 2, 2025, following reports that only 63.9% of registered voters had collected their PVCs. Prof. Amupitan reiterated INEC’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections, stressing that logistics and security arrangements were already in place. “We have hired 200 buses and 83 boats to ensure seamless transportation of election officials and materials,” he said. He also warned against vote buying, describing it as a menace that threatens the integrity of elections. “Security agents must not allow vote buyers to contaminate our electoral process,” he cautioned. The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by the Director of Internal Security, Mr. Hassan Y. Abdullahi reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for the November 8, 2025, Anambra State Governorship Election. Speaking at the ICCES meeting, which also took place in Abuja, Abdullahi said the Office of the NSA remains fully committed to implementing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive on the strategic mobilization of security forces during the electoral period. According to him, enhanced surveillance, deployment of adequate security personnel, and improved intelligence gathering have been put in place to prevent any attempt by “destructive elements or desperate politicians” to undermine the electoral process. He emphasized that political parties and candidates must promote peace and discourage violence. “We are engaging with political leaders and local stakeholders to send a clear message that violence will not be tolerated,” he said. He added that the Nigerian Police Force, as the lead agency for election security, alongside other security services, is prepared to maintain order before, during, and after the polls. Abdullahi called on citizens to support a peaceful process “that reflects our shared values and aspirations.” Similarly, the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, in his remark assured that corps members participating in the Anambra State Governorship Election will be fully protected. Speaking at the ICCES meeting, Brig. Gen. Nafiu said the NYSC was working closely with INEC and security agencies to guarantee the safety and welfare of corps members, who play a vital role in election administration. He described corps members as “vibrant, patriotic, and non-partisan Nigerians” whose participation enhances the credibility of the electoral process. He added that adequate arrangements had been made for their allowances, insurance, and security coverage. “I will personally be on the ground in Anambra before, during, and after the election to support our corps members,” Nafiu assured. He appealed to the government and people of Anambra State to regard corps members as their children and provide them with all necessary support. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the deployment of 45,000 police officers across Anambra State ahead of the November 8 governorship election. Represented by Commissioner of Police Abayomi Sogunle at the ICCES meeting in Abuja, the IGP said the deployment would ensure adequate security before, during, and after the polls. He announced that pre-election deployments would begin on November 1, with tactical units conducting clearance operations to neutralize threats and arrest potential troublemakers. Egbetokun also disclosed that only security agencies officially represented in the ICCES—such as the Police, DSS, NSCDC, and the military—would be involved in the election. “No vigilante group will be allowed to play any role in the electoral process,” he stressed. He further stated that the police would impose movement restrictions on Election Day and ensure all entry and exit points in Anambra are adequately manned. “We are determined to deliver a peaceful and credible election,” he said.

By Iheanyi Chukwudi COLI Academy, the academic arm of the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation (CALMHAF), has advocated for proper stress management for healthier life of Nigerians. The Executive Director of COLI Academy, Rev. Chukwudiebube Nwachukwu, made the advocacy on Tuesday, at the end of the COLI Academy Basic Stress Management Course in Enugu. Nwachukwu said the course, which is a turnout in mental health management among the attendees, underscored the urgent need for effective stress management in today’s fast-paced socioeconomic world. The course, had a full capacity attendance, including, a medical doctor, a detective, an entrepreneur, a banker, a broadcaster, young mental health advocates and volunteers from the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation (CALMHAF). Rev. Nwachukwu noted that the immediate benefits of the course is that attendees (participants) are leaving with a comprehensive toolkit, including the stress awareness wheel, tracking techniques, the Stress Bucket Technique, relaxation and cognitive restructuring methods. He said, “They also went through time management strategies, stress-busting techniques, and a self-care checklist. These tools empower individuals to identify triggers, manage stress in real-time, and build sustainable habits for daily life. There are also future benefits of the course, which included mastering these techniques taught; participants enhance their mental and physical health, improve relationships, and boost productivity. They are well trained to become advocates for mental health, fostering healthier families and communities within their reach and space.” He said that the course’s accredited certificate, issued by COLI Academy — an International Association of Therapists (IAOTH) UK accredited training provider — adds professional credibility, enhancing career prospects and personal growth. One of the attendees, Mr Okechukwu Etuka, a staff of Guaranty Trust Bank, lauded COLI Academy and CALMHAF for organising an impactful course, which lessons would continue to shape ones’ life. He said, “The learning and insight gained from the course will enable me manage the continuous and demanding interaction with customers; thereby, reducing both personal stress and that of my bank’s customers.” Also speaking, Ms Ophilia Alete, an On-Air Personality (OAP) at Correct FM Enugu, said that the course would help her manage her life-style and on-air programmes professionally while maintaining a balanced health. She said, “All I learnt have changed by perception and way I will relate with others and ensure that I reduce all triggers leading to stress and refrain from unnecessary disagreements while presenting my programmes.”

By Iheanyi Chukwudi Enugu State Government on Tuesday said it has prioritised the service delivery through optimisation of digitalisation and increased productivity of civil servants. It noted that its vision of moving the state from a $4.4 billion to $30 billion economy must be carried through the years and internalised by civil servants that had embraced digitalisation and ethical productivity. The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, made this known in an address at a 4-Day Training of Administrative Officers with the theme: “Optimising Service Delivery and Productivity's in the Digital Age,” organised in Enugu by the State Government through the Office of the Head of Service. Onyia, who charged the participants to take the training serious said, "You must work hard, move with the new digital transformation and technology-driven administration before you earn a promotion as the government will never encourage laziness and absenteeism. I must commend the Head of Service for this vital training, which would be in a 32-hour training module meant to boost the capacity, knowledge and practicability of being proficient in using digital tools in e-government. The training will be a co-creation of the resource persons and you the participants. It will be all interactive and we have an array of top niche resource persons for the training.” Speaking earlier, the Head of Service, Enugu State, Dr Godwin Anigbo, explained that the training would enhance the Administrative officers' skills, improve service delivery, and boost efficiency and professionalism. He added that it was designed to accelerate policy implementation and strengthen overall governance in the state, as the civil service remains central to government's critical systemic reforms. Anigbo said, “The vision of His Excellency, Gov. Peter Mbah, to build a smart, agile, resilient, and reform-driven public service for integrated and sustainable development is sincere and achievable. The projected exponential growth of our GDP from 4.4 billion USD to 30 billion USD largely depends on strengthening state institutions and enhancing the capacity of the very people who drive policy. Therefore, the groundbreaking achievements, milestones, and multi-sectoral legacies of this administration can only be sustained by strong institutions and effective policy implementation agencies.” He noted that the participants (civil servants) are critical agents of change, policy enablers, and key stakeholders in the developmental trajectory of the state. “As the engine room and architects of service delivery, it is imperative that you embrace the realities of digital transition, disruptive innovation, new thinking, and a new culture of work. This training is structured around three critical pillars: E-Governance and Technology Adoption; Enhancing Communication and Presentation Skills; and Legal and Ethical Frameworks.” The HOS also disclosed that the state government had made robust plan to provide civil servants with digital tools to work with as well as make the training a routine affair for every cadre of civil servants in 2026.