State News

News from all over Anambra State

GOV SOLUDO COMMENDS ASMATA PG FOR PEACE, INCREASED IGR IN MARKETS

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, has commended the President General (PG), of Anambra State Amalgamated Traders’ Association (ASMATA), Chief Humphrey Anuna, for restoration of relative peace and increase in the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) base of the markets in the State.

He said this as the PG celebrated his one year in office at his Oraeri community, Aguata Local Government Area, adding that it was since the appointment of the PG by the governor that the traders’ IGR, was increased from #400million annually to #4.5billion.

His words, “The PG has even pledged to generate #5billion instead of #4.5billion saying that 70 per cent of business activities in the state are trading. There is massive improvement in IGR”.

The Governor, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Trade and Commerce, Mr. Everest Ubah, said that apart from enabling environment put in place for traders in the state, he has also touched on so many lives through human capital development, employment of teachers, medical personnel, introduction of 1 youth 2 skills acquisition initiative, sack of touts, among others.

“On infrastructure, he has done over 400 kilometers of road within a short period and has improved on the transport system by working on scores of roads,” he said.

Contributing, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Jude Nwankwo, expressed satisfaction that the PG’s appointment by Gov. Soludo assisted immensely to the increase in IGR of traders in the market.

“80 per cent of residents of Anambra State are traders. The PG has served in various capacities as market leader which helped him to know sources of market revenue generation for the state government and that contributed to the increased revenue base of the traders.

“The PG has pledged to generate #5billion on the latest IGR payment to the state government and his administration restored peace which for years eluded the traders,” he further added.

On the Special Adviser to Gov. Soludo on Parks and Markets, Mr. Ubah, the chairman who is ASMATA patron and also PG of Ogidi Building Materials International market, said that Ubah was instrumental to the improvement in IGR and restoration of peace in all markets in the State.

“Without the Special Adviser, Mr. Ubah, these achievements by the ASMATA PG would not have been possible. Uba’s appointment by Gov. Soludo is a welcome development as it has sanitized the markets,” he added.

Contributing, the Idemili Zonal Chairman of ASMATA, Chief Emmanuel Obiagwu, commended the ASMATA PG for celebration of one year in office, adding that the present ASMATA executive has been able to surpass previous regimes in terms of achievements.

“We increased the revenue base, that is IGR of traders from #4million that was the highest IGR before we came in to #4.5billion and hope to increase it to#5billion according to the PG. So we are doing well and government is happy about it,” he said.

In their own contributions, the ASMATA Resolution Committee Chairman and Secretary, Mr. Eric Uwaoma and Mr Peter Okala, expressed satisfaction with the attainment of one year in office of ASMATA PG, adding that the achievements of the present ASMATA executive led by Chief Humphrey Anuna, have surpassed the previous regimes, especially in areas of IGR and peace restoration.

Also the Chairman of Haruna and Sokoto markets, Mr. Emmanuel Idoko and Mr. Emeka Mbachu, commended the ASMATA PG as he marked one year in office, pointing out that he changed the face of the markets from ugly to beauty via restoration of peace and improvement on IGR.

According to the duo, the markets have been sanitized and everybody is happy with the PG for restoring peace that eluded the traders for years. The appointment of PG changed the narrative.

The PG of Oraeri community, Evangelist Alex Agudosi, while commending Gov. Soludo for appointing their son as the ASMATA PG, said that it was an appointment well deserved.

Also the chairman of Nkpor New Auto Spare Parts Market, Chief Elysius Ozorkwere, paid glowing tribute to the ASMATA PG to have achieved this feat of one year in office, noting that he was able to increase the IGR base and restored peace in the markets.

According to him this feat would not have been possible without the contribution of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Commerce, Mr Ubah, notng that the duo work in synergy for the betterment of traders in the State and commended Gov. Soludo for their appointment.

Responding, the ASMATA PG commended all and sundry for felicitating with him as he marked one year in office, adding that without their contributions the celebration would not have been a success.

“If not for you traders, your contributions and hard work, we would not have gone this far in restoring peace and increment on revenue base from #400 million before we came in, to #4.5billion and even hope to get to #5billion in the next payment”, he hinted.

*Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA WAKES TO NEW DAWN OF ACCELERATED PROGRESS UNDER SOLUDO’S CHARGE IN 2024

By Christian ABURIME :

Dawn breaks on a New Year, and with it, hope unfurls over Anambra like a vibrant banner.

As the sun ascends upon the horizon, casting its golden glow over a world awash with newfound happiness and great expectations, the heartbeat of Anambra also resonates with optimism and possibilities.

Yes, 2024 beckons us not merely as a chronological shift but as an anthem to renewed dedication and an authentication of the resolve that has shaped our narrative so far.

Reflecting on the trajectory of achievements embodied in the experiences of 2023, one cannot help but marvel at the transformation that vision, perseverance, innovation, and unity have carved into the very essence of Anambra State.

Each milestone stands as a tribute to a collective odyssey, a journey fueled by resilience and a shared vision. The narrative of Anambra’s resurgence is no longer tethered to the shackles of the past; it is a glowing testimony to the soaring strides of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo in the present and a reflection of a brighter future to come.

Since coming to office, the present government under the leadership of Governor Charles Soludo has dismantled barriers, built roads and erected bridges of progress, reclaiming our streets from fear’s grip, restoring human flourishing, nurturing the seeds of brilliance within our educational landscape, and doing much more with less.

Anambra stands today not just as a regional powerhouse but a beacon beckoning entrepreneurs and investors, echoing a resounding invitation to engage with a state that champions ease of doing business and fiscal sustainability.

The echoes of progress reverberate far and wide, signaling to the nation and the world that Anambra is open for prosperity-driven investment partnerships.

Yet, the Soludo government’s commitment extends beyond physical infrastructure; it is a commitment etched in the sanctity of health and well-being. Our hospitals, once silent witnesses to neglect, now pulsate with vitality, mirroring the vigour injected by dedicated old and newly recruited healthcare professionals.

Pregnant mothers now cradle hope instead of financial anxieties, embraced by a state that cherishes their journey into motherhood.

In our youth, we see the architects of our destiny, and the government has empowered them with tools and opportunities through programmes like One Youth, Two Skills, and the Solution Innovation District.

We are nurturing a legacy where innovation and knowledge foster a future that transcends boundaries, empowering thousands to carve their paths.

Our strides toward inclusivity extend to the most vulnerable among us, ensuring no one falls through the cracks of economic hardship. This caring, pro-poor government disposition of Governor Soludo has become their bastion of support, easing burdens, and rekindling hope, exemplifying our commitment to a society that cares.

As we stand on the virgin territory of 2024, the blueprint for our collective journey is not just a budget the governor signed into law last year, but a roadmap to a future steeped in prosperity and progress.

We are accelerating towards a vision of Anambra, a smart megacity where innovation meets livability, where every corner exudes promise and opportunity.

This year heralds the rise of new cities, each a demonstration of our entrepreneurial vehemence and industrious spirit. Awka 2.0, Onitsha 2.0, and the new Industrial City symbolise our commitment to transforming dreams into tangible realities, powered by technological innovation.

Governor Soludo is not only going to construct more kilometres of roads across the state; his government will be laying the arteries of a robust economy, revitalising transportation, revamping power supply, ensuring water supply, fortifying security with technological prowess, protecting the environment, renewing our urban spaces, boosting agricultural productivity and nurturing the vital essentials that sustain life and dreams across our state; that will turn Anambra into an irresistible destination for all.

Challenges may emerge, but in the face of adversity, we will summon the indomitable spirit of the Onye Anambra. With resounding unity, we will declare our defiance against poverty, mediocrity, and any obstacle obstructing our path towards progress and greatness.

Anambra will be changing gear and accelerating, propelled by our collective spirit and resolute determination. As the New Year unfolds its chaste promise, may its radiance illuminate our land with the glow of progress.

Let every child find solace in the embrace of opportunity, and every hand find purpose in building, creating, and contributing.

Together, as one resilient force, let us build a New Year where Anambra thrives, unstoppable and triumphant in all ramifications of development.

Happy New Year, Ndi Anambra!

ANAMBRA IN 2024: SOLUDO UNFOLDING NEW HEIGHTS OF ACCELERATED DEVELOPMENT

By Christian ABURIME :

As the world awakes to this happy dawn of a New Year, one is filled with an overwhelming sense of hope and excitement for the future of Anambra State.

Despite challenges that might have been and may yet come, there are robust reasons to hope for the best in 2024.

This is not as a routine New Year resolution but an affirmation of intent and purpose by the vision-driven administration of Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR

Twenty months ago, Governor Soludo embarked on a transformative journey, a collective odyssey to reclaim the promise of our great state.

It inherited a landscape pockmarked by challenges, where insecurity lurked in the shadows and opportunity seemed a distant mirage. Yet, with a clear vision, steadfast commitment and a steely resolve, Governor Soludo began to rebuild. Brick by brick, he laid the foundation for a brighter future.

Today, Anambra is on the rise, a tribute to an audacious vision and the tireless spirit of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. We are no longer defined by the stumbles of the past, but by the soaring strides of the present.

From reclaiming our streets from the grip of fear to nurturing the minds of our future generation, this government has touched every facet of our existence with the transformative brush of progress.

For aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned investors alike, Anambra has rolled out the welcome mat. This State is now the number 1 when it comes to Ease of Doing Business among the 17 southern states in Nigeria, just as we are among top 5 states nationwide rated on fiscal sustainability.

All this is a clarion call that echoes across the nation that Anambra is open for business!

Our classrooms, once echoing with the hollow whispers of neglect, now resound with the joyous symphony of learning. Thousands of quality teachers have been hired and are still being recruited. Education is no longer a privilege, but a free birthright, and the shackles of fees and levies have been cast aside Governor Soludo.

Our students, like radiant stars, are lighting up the national stage, consistently outshining their peers in JAMB and NECO. Under the leadership of Governor Soludo, Anambra is fast becoming a breeding ground for brilliance, and the world is taking notice.

The shadows that once shrouded our streets have receded, replaced by the golden rays of safety and security. The local government areas that were once cowering under the grip of the so-called unknown criminals are now basking in the warm embrace of peace.

Despite some challenges, Anambra remains one of the safest states in Nigeria today, a witness to the courage of Governor Chukwuma Soludo

Aside isolated one or two incidents of criminals wanting to test the security strength of the State and met their waterloo, it is heartening to state that Ndi Anambra and visitors spent their last Christmas holidays in peace and joy.

Beyond security, this administration remains a government of concrete action. Over 400 kilometers of roads are under construction, with some completed and to be commissioned, all becoming arteries pulsating with the lifeblood of socio-economic progress for our people.

Two flyovers stand sentinel, tributes to Governor Soludo’s commitment to infrastructure development. The Soludo government is strategically connecting the hitherto neglected parts of our state, weaving a network of inclusive roads that ensures no community is left behind across all 21 Local Government Areas.

Also, just as power supply is steadily improving in our state, our government is making progress on waste management/de-silting of drainages, traffic management, anti-touting, law and order.

What’s more, the 32-year-old jinx of being a state without a befitting Government House is being broken as Governor Soludo is building a dignified government house and governor’s lodge at Awka.

This government is also investing in the health and well-being of our people. Our hospitals, once echoing with the groans of the neglected, are now abuzz with the hum of new life and renewed hope.

The Governor has recruited nearly 1,000 doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers, injecting expertise and compassion into the veins of our medical system.

Pregnant women, no longer burdened by financial anxieties, now receive free antenatal and delivery services.

To support our healthcare, the Oba Open Drug Market (Africa’s biggest open drug market) is under construction, and the Pharmaceutical Industrial Park, Ogboji is under development.

The future of Anambra, like a budding flower, rests in the hands of our youth. The government is nurturing their potential, cultivating their skills, and igniting their entrepreneurial spirit. The One Youth, Two Skills programme, like a magic trick, is transforming 5,000 young people from job seekers to job creators, equipping them with the tools and the seed capital to blossom.

The Solution Innovation District, our digital dreamhouse, is buzzing with creativity, a haven for tech wizards and aspiring innovators. Over 20,000 young minds have been illuminated by the light of digital skills, and thousands more are eager to follow.

This is not just a programme; it is a revolution, a transfer of power from the present to the future, from experience to ingenuity.

As a government that genuinely cares for the poor and the commoners, Governor Soludo has continued to extend a compassionate hand to the vulnerable and the marginalised. The poor and the elderly now find solace in the outstretched arms of this government, receiving assistance that eases their burdens and rekindles hope.

Even our civil servants and pensioners can heave a sigh of relief and smile to the bank. As we step on this virgin territory of 2024, the scent of a new era hangs heavy in the air.

The 2024 budget of N410 Billion that was signed into law last year by Governor Soludo is not just a collection of numbers; it is a declaration of intent, a roadmap to a future that shimmers with the promise of prosperity and progress.

We are changing gear, accelerating our journey towards the Anambra of our dreams: a livable and prosperous smart megacity.

Yes, this government will be investing heavily in infrastructure, including transportation, water, and energy. Governor Soludo will continue to support education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. And the government will keep protecting the environment and building a sustainable future.

Governor Soludo has promised that three new cities will be rising on the horizon – Awka 2.0, a gleaming demonstration of our entrepreneurial spirit; Onitsha 2.0, a thriving hub of commerce reborn, and a new Industrial City, a beacon of industry and innovation.

In this New Year, the Soludo government is building new arteries of a thriving economy – modern highways that weave through our landscape, and a revitalized mass transit system that pulsates with the rhythm of everyday life.

A new electricity market will illuminate our homes and businesses. Our security operations will be fortified with the armour of high technology, a shield against threats both seen and unseen.

And in every home and office, taps will run once more, quenching the thirst of our people. Our students, the architects of our future, will find their classrooms transformed into better sanctuaries of learning.

Their teachers, empowered and supported, will guide them on a journey of knowledge and self-discovery.

In healthcare, the government is building a future where wellness is woven into the fabric of our daily lives.

Governor Soludo has also assured that Sports, the great equaliser, will find its rightful place in Anambra, with our state football team taking the field in 2024.

In agriculture and food security, our regenerative agricultural transformation is thriving. In the past year, the Soludo government distributed 1,100,000 hybrid coconut and palm seedlings to over 100,000 households in our drive towards zero poverty, neo agro-industrialisation, and a green and environmentally sustainable state.

From this year 2024 forward, the government will be distributing at least one million seedlings per annum as we target 500,000 households. Specifically in this year alone, another 100,000 households or more will receive 10 or more seedlings of coconut, palm, ukwa, pawpaw, soursop, etc per household.

Now, all this anticipated transformation, this symphony of progress, is not going to be the handiwork of one man or only government. It will be the collective melody of a people united.

We, the people of Anambra, are the builders, the dreamers, the architects of our shared destiny. That is why our Internally Generated Revenue is not merely a statistic; it is the lifeblood of our aspirations.

When each of us contributes, when we pay our taxes not as a burden, but as an investment in our collective future, the Anambra of our dreams becomes a reality within reach.

Of course, there will be challenges. But let us embrace this New Year with the indomitable spirit of the onye Anambra.

Let us roar our defiance against poverty, against mediocrity, against any obstacle that dares to stand in our path.

Under the dynamic leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Anambra is rising and changing gear, we will be together unstoppable.

Happy New Year, Ndi Anambra!

FUEL SUBSIDY-INDUCED PALLIATIVES WILL END THIS YEAR (2023) IN ANAMBRA STATE

Anambra State Government wishes to remind our people that the payment of the non-taxable N12,000 Cash Awards, subsequently increased this December to N20,000, and distribution of Rice Palliatives were majorly aimed at cushioning the immediate economic hardship occasioned by the removal of the fuel subsidy.

The payment of the Cash Awards to government workers and pensioners will last for four (4) months only – September to December 2023 – as earlier announced by the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo CFR.

The Rice Palliative, procured with the N2 billion loan from the Federal Government has been shared across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State, all the communities and down to “umunna” or kindreds.

These processes have been clinically executed, the objectives met and Ndi Anambra are happy.

In the light of the above, it’s important to emphasize that the payment of Cash Awards and distribution of Rice Palliatives will end by December 31, 2023.

This does not negate other more impactful and sustainable welfare policies which Governor Soludo has thoughtfully and preemptively emplaced to leverage the quality of living. They include free education, free antenatal and delivery services, tax holiday for petty traders and artisans worth below N100,000, youth empowerment with N2b and another one to commence soon, employment of additional teachers and medical personnel, etc.

We will continue to show the way as the Light of the Nation.

Wishing you all Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year.

Signed

*SIR PAUL NWOSU*

Commissioner for Information

December 20, 2023

GOV. SOLUDO DOLE OUT CHRISTMAS PACKAGE TO SOLUTION FC PLAYERS AND OFFICIALS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe :

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo has doled out Christmas package to players and officials of Anambra State club, Solution FC.

The Christmas package is in the form of 50kg bags of Rice each to officials and players of the Nigeria National League (NNL) side.

The package was handed out to the players and officials at the Conference Room of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission (ASSDC) under the supervision of the ASSDC Chairman, Patrick Estate Onyedum.

Addressing the players on behalf of the Governor, Mr. Onyedum stated that the package to the players and officials of the club is part of the welfare by the state government under Gov. Soludo to motivate them in their NNL adventure towards finishing on a high note and possibly earning promotion to the top tier, Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) next season.

Onyedum called on players and officials to work on crucial areas in the team such as the striking department and ensure that they score more goals and win matches both home and away in subsequent league matches which is pivotal to the success of the team. The Sports Administrator re-emphasized the support of the present administration towards the success of the Solution FC project.

Also speaking, the member representing Nnewi North Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Sports, Anambra State House of Assembly (ANSHA), Hon. Augustine Ike commended the players and officials for their effort and results recorded thus far in the NNL. The lawmaker affirmed that as part of his oversight function, he can make a case to put Solution FC in social status in law with specific law addressing Solution FC matters as well as increasing the budgetary allocation of the team but all that could be achieved with good results by the team.

Hon. Ike informed that he will from now follow both training sessions and match proceedings of the club in the NNL while urging the players and officials to enhance the team’s outlook performance wise starting with the game against Crown FC of Ogbomosho in Match Day 6 this weekend.

In a vote of thanks, the Team Manager, Augustine Okoye thanked Governor Soludo for his support and motivation for the club. He also thanked Hon. Onyedum for ensuring a smooth and seamless operation administration wise in various aspects of club management while also thanking the Chairman House Committee on Sports for his interest in the affairs of the club. He stated that the technical crew led by Coach Uche Okagbue will work assiduously in enhancing the performance and outlook of the team.

Solution FC which came into existence in the third quarter of the 2023 year is currently playing in Conference B of the ongoing 2023/2024 Nigeria National League (NNL).

CHRISTMAS: ANAMBRA IS SAFE, WELCOME HOME, NDI ANAMBRA!

By Christian ABURIME :

It is that time of the year again when the world is caught up in frenzied activities of holidays and celebration.

Naturally, there are sober reflections as well as great expectations at this time, as one year draws to a close and another beckons.

Everyone is preoccupied with diverse passions, emotions, thoughts and feelings.

What’s yours? Fears of insecurity? Leave them behind, Ndi Anambra! This Christmas, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, welcomes you home with open arms of assurances and unyielding commitment to security of lives and property

Anambra is no longer a dread zone, but a joyous haven embraced by peace, joy and goodwill this season and beyond

As you are making preparations for travels and celebrations, it is possible that you remember those dark days in Anambra State when kidnappers ruled and fear of unknown gunmen shadowed every step, and you panicked. Calm down, because those dark days are gone for good in our state.

Governor Soludo has drastically reversed the security situation in Anambra State. He raised a shield, establishing the Ministry of Homeland Affairs dedicated to security, re-strategizing with all organs of state security agencies, and empowering vigilant warriors – your own neighbours, trained and ready as Anambra Vigilantes.

Now, surveillance eyes are everywhere watching, joint security squads are patrolling the streets, and criminal shadows are fading.

But security remains a collective responsibility. Communities, not just constables, must stand guard. Traditional rulers, Presidents General, and you, Ndi Anambra, must join hands with the government and security agencies. When this is done, information flows, intelligence is gathered, crimes wither, and trust blossoms. “When you see something, you say something”

Thanks to the proactive leadership actions by Governor Soludo, streets once choked by touts can breathe freely again. Upper Iweka, Onitsha’s heart, now beats with newfound rhythm, free from the grip of fear. Christmas beckons and joy fills the air. Amidst the festive euphoria, Governor Soludo’s promise echoes: “A peaceful, crime-free celebration for all!” As security forces are standing ever vigilant and our roads are gleaming free of potholes, festive cheer will flow unfettered.

Even the traffic will be dancing to a safer, smoother rhythm. The watchful eyes of Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency, ARTMA, will be guiding the traffic flow, while law enforcers will be standing guard against festive frenzy. Pedestrians can stroll freely, merrymakers can relish carefree celebrations, and Christmas markets can shimmer with delight day and night, untouched by shadows of fear.

But, should misfortune strike, fear not. Ambulances will be humming reassuringly close by, ready to respond, care and comfort. Our medical heroes will be standing on call, ensuring every heart beats with joy. So come, Ndi Anambra, come home without a doubt. Bring your laughter without a fear. Governor Soludo has put all necessary, detailed measures of security of lives and property in place, hand in hand with our security agencies and our local communities.

Together, we will celebrate a merry Christmas and a happy New Year bathed in peace, suffused in joy, and glowing in the warmth of homecoming.

Season’s Greetings, Ndi Anambra!

Welcome home!!

ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT URGES CITIZENS TO DISREGARD THE PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY ASWAMA, RESTRICTING VEHICULAR AND HUMAN MOVEMENTS ON DECEMBER 16TH, FOR MONTHLY SANITATION EXERCISE

The Government of Anambra State wishes to bring to the notice of the general public that the Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise earlier announced to hold on December 16, 2023, restricting Vehicular and human movements by the Anambra State Waste Management Authority, ASWAMA, was not authorized by the State Government.

Consequently, the state government is urging the citizens to disregard the announcement, and should please go about their normal daily businesses.

The government, however, apologizes for any inconvenience the misleading announcement may have caused the general public.

*Christian Aburime*

Press Secretary To The Governor

December 14, 2023.

Anambra State Government Health Workers Recruitment Exam Time Table (Dec. 2023)

PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS:

Candidates are expected to strictly adhere to the guidelines outlined below:

Failure to be present on the exam date and time will lead to automatic disqualification.
No writing materials of any kind are permitted within the examination hall, as the exam is Computer-Based Testing (CBT).
Electronic devices, including mobile phones and calculators, are strictly prohibited in the exam hall.
Candidates must present a valid means of identification upon arrival.
Candidates must be present at the examination venue at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. The venue for the examination is Integral Development Consult (IDK) Learning Center Awka, located at 18/20 Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, White House, Awka, Anambra State.
Impersonation will result in immediate disqualification.

Kindly ensure compliance with these directives. Your understanding and adherence to these instructions are greatly appreciated.

Computer Users: Use the Ctrl + F keys to activate the find feature of your browser, type in your name, and press the “Enter” key on your keyboard to locate your name using the arrow keys provided.

Mobile Phone Users: Use the find feature of your phone app to locate your name in the list.

ANSG-Health-Workers-Recruitment-Exam-Time-Tale

IT IS WELL WITH ‘ODERA’: A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE DR. CHINWOKE MBADINUJU

*NEWS COMMENTARY:*

By Christian ABURIME :

Today, the Government and people of Anambra State begin the process of bidding a final farewell to a great son of Anambra State.

This is also a tribute to celebrate his life and achievements as a former Governor who left an indelible mark on the history of our beloved state.

This is in memory of no other than the Late Dr. Chinwoke Clement Mbadinuju, fondly known as Odera.

Dr. Mbadinuju was a man of many facets – an academic, a journalist, a politician, and above all, a compassionate leader.

Born in the serene town of Uli, Ihiala Local Government area of Anambra State in 1945, Odera’s life was one of profound destiny, marked by his uncommon belief in education and service to humanity.

He embarked on his educational journey at Mgbidi Primary School, where his brilliance and academic prowess shone through. His parents, recognizing his potential, encouraged him to pursue a career in teaching, sending him to Bishop Lasbrey College in Irete, Owerri.

Upon completing his studies, he returned to his alma mater as a teacher, inspiring countless young minds.

Odera’s thirst for knowledge led him to the United States, where he initially pursued a degree in Music at the State University of New York. However, his true calling lay in the realm of government and politics, and he subsequently switched his studies to Ohio University, where he earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Government and International Law.

His academic achievements opened doors to various teaching positions at esteemed institutions like State University of New York, Ohio State University, and Cornell University. But it was his love for his homeland that drew him back to Nigeria, where he embarked on a distinguished career in journalism.

Odera’s journalistic journey began as a correspondent for Times International, where his sharp intellect and incisive writing earned him recognition. He rose through the ranks, becoming the Editor of Times International and later the General Manager and Chief Executive of Daily Star, the then Enugu State government’s daily publication.

His foray into politics began with an appointment as Special Assistant (Political) to the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under President Shehu Shagari. After the 1983 coup, Odera returned to his legal practice in Onitsha, all the while dedicating himself to his Christian faith and community service.

In 1998, Odera’s political aspirations led him to join the Peoples Democratic Party, where he emerged as the party’s governorship candidate in Anambra State.

His campaign focused on restoring stability and prosperity to Anambra State, a state grappling with numerous challenges at the time.

In 1999, Odera assumed office as the Governor of Anambra State, marking a pivotal moment in his life and the history of the state. Despite the daunting challenges he faced, Odera remained steadfast in his commitment to serving his people.

With his characteristic intelligence, equanimity in the face of extreme provocations, and Christian faith in God, Odera embarked on a mission to transform Anambra State.

Among his several achievements, he established the Anambra Vigilante Services, Dora Akunyili Centre, the Alex Ekwueme Square, the New House of Assembly, and the Odumegwu Ojukwu University.

He also implemented a scholarship scheme for secondary schools, constructed over 140 kilometers of roads, provided boreholes in secondary schools, and established the Orient Oil Ltd.

Odera’s legacy extends beyond his tangible achievements. He was a man of integrity, humility, and compassion, always putting the needs of his people first. He instilled hope and a sense of unity in a state yearning for stability.

Although Odera’s tenure as Governor came to an end without a secure term, his contributions to Anambra State remained profound. He continued to serve his country, joining the All Progressives Congress and serving on its Board of Trustees until his passing away in April 2023 at the National Hospital, Abuja.

A devoted family man, Odera was survived by his wife, Mrs. Nnene Mbadinuju, and five children. Today, as we bid farewell to Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, we remember not just a politician, but a leader who embodied the true spirit of service. He was a beacon of hope, a man of unwavering principles, and a true patriot.

No doubt, Odera’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of the good people of Anambra State. His steadfast commitment to our people, his intelligence, and his unwavering faith will continue to inspire generations to come.

As he would usually say, it shall be well with Anambra State.

May his soul find eternal rest in the bosom of the Lord.

S.E. ANCOPSS EULOGIZES GOV. SOLUDO’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUATION

The South East Zone of the All Nigerian Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools ANCOPSS, has praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the giant strides recorded by his administration in the education sector.

Speaking at the 2023 South East Mandatory Professional Training program holding at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Center Awka, the South East President of ANCOPSS, Sir Mathew Ikechukwu Uzuegbu stated that Anambra State has always played a leading role in Education. He implored other Governors of the South East zone to prioritize infrastructure and human development in public schools.

Declaring open the 2023 South East ANCOPSS mandatory professional training, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh stated that Governor Soludo’s passion for education has remained unparalleled. This was demonstrated immediately on his assumption of office by the employment of five thousand teachers, while activities have commenced for employment of additional three thousand teachers.

Commissioner Chuma-Udeh who was represented by the Director of Schools, Mrs Ifeoma Agbaizu, further stated that Principals occupy highly placed position in Governor Soludo’s education agenda, as their roles in actualizing the education agenda of the State cannot be underestimated.

While assuring the South East Principals of enjoyable stay in Anambra State, the Education Commissioner charged them to maximize the benefits of the program for the progress of education.

Earlier, the Anambra State President of ANCOPSS, Mr Jovita Arazu had listed the achievements of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in his drive to make education an equalizer.

Nnaemeka Egwuonwu Public Relations Officer Anambra State Ministry of Education