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By Madu Obi No fewer than 150 people from Awka North local government area of Anambra State have received items worth over N150 million from their lawmaker in the state House of Assembly, Hon. Chimezie Ikwunne. Items distributed to the beneficiaries include 15 shuttle buses, 35 motorcycles, 30 grinding machines, 31 hair dryers and 35 sewing machines, in addition to cash support for their businesses. The lawmaker, who is the chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, said the initiative was designed to provide relief and enable his constituents improve their living standards and promote development in the area. According to Ikwunne, the beneficiaries were selected from the various communities in the constituency, comprising youths, women, men, community leaders, artisans and traders. “This empowerment is about restoring dignity to rural life, engaging the youths, easing the burden on women and creating a foundation for inclusive development,” he said. He commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for responding to the needs of Awka North residents through the construction of the Amansea-Awba Ofemili road that links five communities in the area, noting that the road project has improved agricultural production and eased transportation of persons and farm produce to markets. “Before now, the road was in a very bad condition and even motorcycles found it difficult to ply it. As an agrarian community, Gov. Soludo has changed the narrative and brought development to our area,” he said. He assured the people of his constituency that he would continue to address their needs and aspirations in line with his campaign promises. “I applied for this job and I rededicate myself to listen more, serve better and work harder,” he said. In his remarks, the state chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Ifeatu Obi-Okoye commended the lawmaker for what he described as quality representation. “With this level of empowerment, APGA members are proud of you because this is a true representation and it aligns with the Solution government,” he said. Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Chukwuma Okoye, praised Ikwunne for initiating programmes that directly impact the lives of his people. A community leader, Chief Lawrence Onwuzuka thanked the lawmaker for prioritizing the welfare of the people and pledged the constituents’ continued support to him. He urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the items to improve their livelihoods. Some of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for the gesture and pledged to use the support to boost their businesses and improve their living conditions. Mr Ifesinachi Onwunili from Achalla community, who received a shuttle bus, said he would use it to generate income with the aim of purchasing another bus within the next one year. Another beneficiary, Mrs Theresa Okonkwo, a trader from Ebenebe Community, who received a grinding machine, said the equipment would boost her business and enable her to support her family.

By Ifeanyi Chukwudi Ahead of the 2027 general election, the Igbo Agenda Dialogue (IAD), has urged President Bola Tinubu, to quickly halt what it called the brewing anarchy in Nigeria. Convener/National Chairman of the pan Igbo, non-partisan socio-political and pro-democracy organization, Chief Chekwas Okorie, in an open letter to the Nigerian President, Tinubu, on behalf of IAD, drew his attention to the brewing anarchy in Nigeria, which according to him, needs the President's urgent intervention as the Chief Security Officer of the country. This is as the IAD again, urged President of dent Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and his fellow prisoners of conscience without further delay, assuring it would calm frayed nerves and reduce tension not only in the South East geopolitical zone but among Igbo people who are widely spread in Nigeria and abroad. Noting that Nigeria is in an election year leading to the presidential election of January 2027 and other elections thereafter, the IAD leader expressed worry that, "The desperate actions and inflammatory rhetoric of political actors in the build-up to the forthcoming general elections have the dangerous tendency to trigger widespread anarchy that may overwhelm the fragile capacity of Nigeria's security agencies that have been stretched to its limits already." He stressed that "The recent attack on Mr. Peter Obi and his associates in Edo State and the subsequent attack on Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi in Rivers State are a few of the provocative and unprovoked attacks that could snowball to spiral reprisal actions. "Discerning Nigerians are waiting to hear quality proposals by politicians and their political parties especially the ruling party about what they intend to do differently to alleviate the plight of the citizens if given the opportunity to serve in the offices of their aspiration after 2027 elections. Unfortunately what we hear are threats, acerbic tantrum and arrogant claims about how the forthcoming elections have been won and lost. Your Excellency, you have a responsibility to assure Nigerians that the 2027 elections will be fair, credible and transparent. You have a responsibility to rein in some of your overzealous aides and appointees to moderate their rhetoric and provocations. The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, enjoys obvious incumbency advantages from the Party's control of the National Assembly to the overwhelming majority of the State and local government structures in the country. The ruling party ought to concentrate its efforts on the strategy and issue based campaigns to translate the advantages it currently enjoys into electoral victory in a free and fair election. The antics of some prominent leaders of the ruling party smacks of panic and lack of confidence." Okorie however, made some recommendations for President Tinubu to consider to ensure that Nigeria go through the processes of the 2027 general election and come out of it in one piece. He said, "You have the power under the Nigerian Constitution to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and his fellow prisoners of conscience without further delay. This will calm frayed nerves and reduce tension not only in the South East geopolitical zone but among Igbo people who are widely spread in Nigeria and abroad. Exercise this special presidential prerogative. It is auspicious and expedient at this time. Direct the APC, the Presidency and its numerous state and local governments to set the tone for issue based campaigns. Incessant arrest and detention of high profile political leaders especially leaders of the opposition political parties which may suggest deliberate clampdown to put them out of circulation at this time should be avoided. The federal government and the relevant agencies in collaboration with civil society and pro-democracy organizations must make deliberate efforts to ensure large citizen participation in the 2027 elections. The appalling twenty percent turn out in our general elections speaks to the illegitimacy of the outcomes. Nobody who is a product of such outcome should beat his chest and say that the people have spoken through the ballot box. I urge you to be mindful of the verdict of history."

By Madu Obi Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has said that his administration is built on the principles of inclusivity and collective progress, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences. Soludo made the remark at the Government House, Awka when he joined members of the Muslim community in the state to break their Ramadan fast. The event brought together Muslim leaders and faithful, as well as top government officials who converged in a warm atmosphere of fellowship. Addressing the gathering, the governor described Anambra as one family, emphasizing on his administration’s commitment to building a livable and prosperous homeland for all. According to him, the values of Ramadan, including compassion, charity, and self-discipline, are universal values that should guide everyone in governance and in their daily lives. He commended the Muslim community in the state for their peaceful coexistence and significant contributions to the state’s social and economic fabric, reiterating his government’s dedication to ensuring the security and well-being of every resident. In his remarks, the Secretary-General of the Anambra State Muslim Council, Alhaji Danni Onyeabo Ejoh, congratulated the governor on his recent electoral victory, describing Soludo's administration as eventful, memorable, challenging, and result-laden. He also stressed that the get together has deepened the cordial relationship between the state and the Muslim community. The Chairman of the Fulani Community in the state, Alhaji Gidado Saddiki, who also spoke, expressed profound appreciation for the governor’s gesture, describing it as historic and heartwarming. He noted that the act of fellowship by the governor is a clear demonstration of true leadership and fatherhood to all, noting that it has strengthened their bond and reassured them of their place and dignity in the Anambra project. The event featured prayers for the peace and development of Anambra State and Nigeria, after which the governor shared the Iftar meal, broke the day’s fast with water, followed by dinner.

By Madu Obi Awka- The wife of the Anambra State governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo has felicitated with mothers on the occasion of mother's Sunday, reminding them that motherhood is a divine responsibility. In a statement to mark the occasion, Mrs Soludo urged women to continue to give their best for the good of the society. "Motherhood is one divine responsibility that has no material quantification. Being a mother is a rare blessing; a gift that should never ever be taken for granted. Motherhood is God's call to serve a scared purpose. It's an assignment beyond the home. It's a duty of passion and grace. For your sacrifices, extraordinary courage, resilience, and eternal closure, the world celebrates you today and beyond. No gift, treasure, and love should ever be enough for the price of motherhood. Celebrate that mother in your life today and every other day", she said. Reminding men that the best gift they can give to their wives on such an occasion is love, presence and prayers, she wished Anambra women a memorable Mothers' Sunday celebration. "To every hard-working and compassionate mother in Anambra State and elsewhere, take your flowers. You're the saints we see", Mrs Soludo added.

By Madu Obi As the political tempo continues to rise ahead of the 2027 general elections, the member representing Idemili North and South in the House of Representatives, Hon Harris Okonkwo, is optimistic that the former governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, would secure the ticket of African Democratic Congress, ADC, for the election. Addressing reporters at Ojoto, Idemili South local government area, during a medical outreach organized by Annie Okonkwo Foundation for the people of his constituency, Okonkwo assured that they will work hard to ensure that Peter Obi is selected as the presidential candidate of ADC. Speaking on Obi's chances, the federal lawmaker, who recently defected to ADC from the Labour Party said: "I believe that Nigerians know what is good for them. The good thing is that there will be no more delegates for the primaries as it is going to be either by consensus or direct primaries. "So the people are the ones that will decide when it comes to selecting the presidential candidate.". He, however, faulted the recently passed Electoral Act which, according to him, undermines people's freedom of association. "Truth be told, the freedom of association and freedom of political parties should not be tampered with. It's like saying that one should not associate with his friends. I argued against it, but unfortunately we're in the minority and my voice could only echo as loud as it could, but the majority had it's way. I really don't support it because there shouldn't be a limit to associate with those you want to at any point in time", he added.. Okonkwo said although it could stop people from belonging to multiple parties, there should be no limit to freedom of association. "One could be in one party, but may decide to work for a candidate in another party. So it doesn't make any sense. "Our concern should be the way the Nigerian government has been managing our resources and the extravagance this government is exhibiting at the detriment of the people. I believe that in the long run, truth will prevail," he said.

By Madu Obi The Solution Innovation District (SID), run by the Government of Anambra State, and Dhahran Techno Valley Holding Company (DTVC), a leading science and technology hub based in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialisation. The agreement, signed during a high-level innovation engagement in Beijing, China, marks the beginning of a strategic partnership designed to accelerate innovation-driven economic growth across Africa and the Middle East. Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate in key areas of startup & venture acceleration – joint accelerator programmes and venture-building initiatives in sectors such as energy, sustainability, and emerging technologies. Other areas to be covered include investment & business development, knowledge sharing & industry engagement, networking & collaboration platforms, as well as events & knowledge exchange, such as co-hosting international summits, workshops, and meetings to foster global innovation linkages. Speaking during the ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of SID and Special Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State on Innovation and Business Incubation, Chinwe Okoli emphasized the significance of the partnership. “This collaboration represents a major milestone for Anambra State and Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. Our partnership with DTVC reflects SID’s commitment to building strong international linkages that accelerate technology development, commercialisation, and sustainable growth. By collaborating with DTVC, we are creating opportunities for startups, researchers, and industry players to collaboratively develop solutions that tackle global issues and promote inclusive economic growth. Together, we will empower innovators and entrepreneurs to scale solutions with global impact", Okoli said. On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of DTVC, Mohammed Abusharifah noted the alignment with DTVC’s mission to advance global technology partnerships: “DTVC reaffirms its commitment to accelerate the journey of ideas from lab to market by bridging world-class research with entrepreneurial spirit. "Our partnership with SID will create a bridge for an increase in the flow of talent, expertise, and investments between our two innovation hubs", he said.

By Madu Obi The students and pupils of Western Academy, Umueze Anam, in Anambra West local government area, have expressed deep appreciation to the former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, for donating N10 million to improve facilities in their school. Addressing the students, Obi urged them to take their studies seriously, reminding them that education remains the most reliable path to personal and societal advancement. He told them that the mere fact that they are in school places them in a privileged position and that with dedication and hard work they would be able to compete favourably with students from any part of the world. He encouraged them to believe in their potential, noting that among them could emerge future presidents, governors, professors, entrepreneurs and leaders of major institutions, including banks and international organisations. Obi also shared a personal reflection with the students, recalling that part of his own primary education was undertaken at St. Augustine Primary School, Umuoba Anam, in present-day Anambra West Local Government Area, where he began the academic journey that eventually shaped his life. He further recalled visiting the Anam area while campaigning to become governor and having to access the community by boat, a situation that underscored the isolation of the riverine communities at the time. According to him, the experience strengthened his resolve to improve access to the area, which later led him to partner with the Federal Government to construct a bridge linking the riverine communities to other parts of the state. Obi also remembered initiating and constructing one of the first major road projects in the area, linking Umueze Anam to neighbouring communities, as part of efforts to open up the region and improve transportation and economic activities. The proprietor of the school and the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Niger East, Most Rev’d Dr. Obiora Uzochukwu, thanked Obi for his visit and generous donation, describing it as a huge encouragement to both the students and the school administration. He urged the students not to be discouraged by their rural environment but to remain focused on learning, discipline and hard work, assuring them that greatness can emerge from any place where determination and opportunity meet. Speaking on behalf of the students, the Senior Prefect, Miss Udenze Ifeyinwa, said the visit was both surprising and inspiring to the entire school community. She noted that it was difficult for many of them to believe that someone as highly placed and widely respected as Obi would take time to visit their school, located in one of the most rural parts of Anambra State. She said the visit had given the students renewed confidence and a sense of belonging, adding that it showed that people in leadership still care about children in remote communities. According to her, the students were particularly grateful for Obi’s encouragement and the support he extended to the school.

By Madu Obi Saturday's planned protest organized by the Electricity Consumers Rights Network against epileptic power supply in Anambra State has been called off due to suspected security challenges. The protest was meant to highlight growing frustration among residents over erratic electricity supply despite the introduction of Band A tariffs. Addressing reporters in Awka on Friday, the convener of the group, Comrade Osita Obi, however, said that the protest had only been suspended and not cancelled. According to Obi, the decision to suspend the protest followed concerns raised by security agencies, including the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Anambra State government ahead of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's second term inauguration on March 17. The agencies, he added, also expressed fears that the protest could be hijacked by hoodlums, disclosing that he had received more than 157 threatening calls urging him to call off the protest. Denying the allegation that he had been compromised, Obi said: “Having listened to these people, we decided to suspend the protest, but not cancel it." He said that he would not want to take any action that might not augur well for the state and urged electricity consumers in the state to rather attend a town hall meeting scheduled by the state government- sponsored FirstPower for March 18, where they would have the opportunity to ask questions about the power situation in the state. He, however, decried the quality of power supply in the state, noting that electricity supply has become inconsistent and unreliable.

By Madu Obi One hundred women selected from the 21 local government areas of Anambra State have begun a training programme on skills acquisition sponsored by the wife of the governor of Anambra State, Mrs Nonye Soludo. At an elaborate programme at the Government House, Awka, Mrs Soludo said the Anambra Skilled Ladies Programme is a well-designed entrepreneurial package that offers young women the opportunity to learn and prosper through high-demand lucrative skills. The training was designated across four areas of solar and CCTV Installation and repairs, Air Condition repair and maintenance, tricycle (Keke) repair, and painting. According to the governor's wife, the total course duration is two months, adding that one month is for practical classes, while the other month is for internship. She reminded the beneficiaries that classes are strictly in-person, stating that they are required to achieve at least 98% of class attendance to be certified. She said: "This event holds a distinct position in the heart of our history as a non-governmental crusade. This one celebrates women in the most practical way. Remarkably, we are in a month that has been globally dedicated to appreciating the uniqueness, beauty, and resilience of womanhood. So, consider this my own gift of love and support to all of you for being purposeful women. The idea of Anambra Skilled Ladies Programme struct like a divine providence, and I'm super grateful that we're finally here to kick off this amazing journey. Depending on your department, you will be directly monitored and supervised by your trainers, while an independent team will be set up to follow up on your day-to-day development." You are just a few steps away from a perfect milestone and I'm sincerely counting on you. Go out there and flourish". It would interest you to note that a few months ago, when the application portal for this programmme was opened, we received over ten thousand submissions in just one week. Our earlier plan was to start off with fifty trainees, but moved by your passion and keen interest, we had no choice but to double the figure. Note that any trainee who flouts the rules of the program will be automatically disqualified and replaced. What we are giving you is a platform to succeed. In these skills environment, evidently dominated by men, we want you to bring uniqueness and excellence to the field. We want you to become a beacon of hope and faith for your families, communities, and our dear state and beyond. We want you to be the best and nothing short of it. Whatever challenge you meet in the course of this program, don't lose the motivation. Let resilience drive your everyday tasks. "Show seriousness and dedication to your projects, and respect your trainers and fellow trainees. Most importantly, work like a family and avoid division and unhealthy competition. I have 100% trust and faith in all of you, and I want you to make me proud". Mrs Soludo noted that the screening process was strict and rigorous, noting that they were selected because they showed considerable passion and the right willingness to make a change. She commended the trainers for extending a hand of true partnership to her NGO in the life-changing quest, adding, "We are handing these ladies into your care, mentorship, and tutelage. Please, take good care of them."

By Madu Obi Presidential hopeful of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Peter Obi, has blamed Nigeria’s vulnerability to global economic shocks on the country’s failure to maintain strategic petroleum reserves. In a statement shared on his social media platform, Obi said recent tensions arising from the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, have pushed up global oil prices, which quickly translated into higher fuel prices in Nigeria. He noted that petrol, which sold for less than ₦1,000 per litre a few weeks ago, now costs over ₦1,200 per litre, while diesel has risen from below ₦1,000 per litre to more than ₦1,500 per litre. According to Obi, the rapid increase demonstrates how quickly external shocks affect Nigeria because the country lacks economic buffers. He explained that many countries—whether oil-producing or not—maintain strategic petroleum reserves that can be released during disruptions in the global oil market to stabilize supply and prices. Nigeria, he added, however, does not have such reserves, meaning the impact of global market changes is felt almost immediately. Obi argued that the situation reflects a broader problem of inadequate national planning, stressing that countries that plan ahead create safeguards against economic shocks, while those that fail to plan remain vulnerable. He noted that the lesson remains clear, which is that when a country fails to plan, it has effectively planned to fail.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State House of Assembly is to review some state laws described as obsolete, especially those inherited from the military. The Speaker of the House, Hon Somtochukwu Udeze said the affected laws have never been properly domesticated into democratic statute, while some are incompatible with obligations under international treaties which Nigeria had ratified. According to him, some of the laws include those on data protection, community development, environmental regulation, rights of persons with disabilities, among many others, adding that a committee will be set up to look into them.. The Speaker, who was addressing his colleagues during a retreat, said the essence of bringing them together was to produce specific legislative targets and empower the lawmakers with a roadmap on which laws they intend to review before the end of the legislative year. It was also aimed at discussing new bills they intend to originate from within the House, and the capacity support needed to accomplish things at the highest standard. During the retreat, a former Clark of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr Pius Udo spoke on Budget Driven Oversight , Executive Perspective. Professor M. Umenweke presented a paper on Deepening Democratic Governance and Constitutional Reform, while the Deputy Clark of the Delta State House of Assembly presented a paper on "Budget Driven Oversight: a Legislative Perspective." The theme of the retreat is "Strengthening Democratic Governance through constitutional reviews and budgetary oversight: the role of state legislatures"

By Madu Obi The house to house inspection by Environmental Health Officers has been reintroduced in Anambra State as part of measures to improve sanitary situation across the state. The state branch of Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria has also set up a seven - member Ethics and Disciplinary Committee to monitor and regulate activities of its members and evolve way of generating revenue for the state. President of the Association in Anambra State, Iyk Obasanya, who announced the initiatives during a meeting in Awka, expressed worry about the declining sanitary situation in parts of Anambra State, particularly Onitsha, and directed all Environmental Health Officers in all the local government areas of the state to be up and doing. Obasanya said: "The house to house inspection by Environmental Health Officers will commence soon for residential houses, business houses and offices to ensure that cleanliness is strictly maintained. During the inspection, we will be impounding expired products being sold brazenly across the state as people's lives are jeopardized by the consumption of such expired products. We also intend to set up sanitation mobile courts to make the public to be alive to their responsibilities. Our work is preventive and that is why we must sit up to support Governor Chukwuma Soludo's campaign for a liveable and healthy Anambra State We must change the narrative and this time around and it won't be business as usual". He urged all the directors in the 21 local government areas to be sending reports to the newly inaugurated ethics and disciplinary committee on the misbehavior of members across the state, adding that all environmental health practitioners are free to send reports as whistle blowers. "We have ethics of our profession and we must protect those ethics. If our members derail from the ethics, they should face the disciplinary action", he added. Speaking after their inauguration, the chairman of the Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, Dr. Emma Obiano, explained that in addition to protecting Environmental Health profession, the committee will be handling grievances of members. He said: "We have 23 - point code of conduct and any breach of the ethics is to be handled by the committee. In the course of our training, we were thought the rules we must observe and we have to observe these rules. The disciplinary committee will also handle grievances members have against each other. The idea is to protect our profession and make it grow. Other people can also alert the committee of any misdemeanor by members of our profession and such reports will be looked into. Activities of private practitioners will also be ex- rayed. Government activities as they concern the practice of Environmental Health profession will form the duty of the committee. The committee will meet all the directors and stakeholders in government, including Commissioners, to work out areas of cooperation and assistance, to ensure the smooth operation of the disciplinary committee. One major takeaway is that we have closed the old chapter of indiscipline in our profession and have begun a new phase". He said that the committee will also handle the issue of revenue as the profession is expected to be generating revenue for government.