₦airaland Forum

WE WILL PURSUE THE PROSECUTION OF THE MURDEROUS SOLDIER TO A LOGICAL CONCLUSION ---IKPEAZU VOWS!

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has vowed that no stone will be left unturned in the quest for justice for the slain motorcyclist, Late Chimaobi Nwaorgu, who was gunned down by a soldier yesterday.

Governor Ikpeazu stated this today when he visited the family of the deceased at Ezido Na Ife Village, Umuokereke Ngwa in Obingwa LGA.

Accompanied by the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ene Okon, Police Area Commander for Aba, ACP Opara and other senior Police Officers, Ikpeazu described the killing of the 30 year old young man as wicked, malicious, unprofessional and cowardly.
He expressed deep sadness that a security personnel who is paid and maintained by tax payers money will turn around to kill the very person he is paid to secure, stating that the circumstances surrounding the killing of the young man are unacceptable to the government and people of Abia State.

The Governor who was visibly emotionally shaken, wondered why a soldier will pursue an unarmed young man from Ohanze Village all the way to Umuokereke Ngwa, a distance of about 25 kilometers and shot him from behind, at point blank range.

According to the Governor, “This is one murder too many. We will do everything possible under the law to get this murderous soldier and bring him to justice. Whatever it takes, we will do. We will go to Abuja or any other place to ensure that this particular soldier doesn’t go scot free. The death of this young man is extremely painful and cannot go in vain. This is my position and this is the position of the Government and people of Abia State”.

The sight of the young wife, who has suddenly become a widow his two infant sons and his aged mother evokes a feeling of strong emotions and the atmosphere was very charged indeed.

The Governor assured the family that he will personally ensure that the young family is not allowed to suffer. He also announced that the soldier was arrested yesterday and is currently in detention and thanked the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ene Okon for the prompt response to the matter.

Governor Ikpeazu pleaded with the family and the entire community to take heart and accept the sad incident with philosophical calmness. While advising against violent demonstrations which could aggravate the already charged situation, the Governor told the people to trust his ability to pursue the deal with this matter decisively.

The Governor later moved to the Community Hall where addressed the people and youths of the Community and renewed his appeal for calm.

Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Barrister Solomon Akpulonu, Chairman of Obingwa LGA, Honorable Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Chairman of Obingwa LGA, Chief Chidiebere Ihenyirimadu and others were part of the Governor’s entourage.

GERMAN GOVERNMENT TO PARTNER WITH ABA ARTISANS

The efforts of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu at bringing national and global attention to the power of the Aba artisans has received another boost, as the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) headquartered in Bonn, Germany is set to launch its Nigerian Competitive Project in Aba, Abia State, with the garment and leather industries in Aba as its prime target.

The project, which will last for an initial four years, will be aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of selected value chains in Nigeria will be funded by the European Union and the German Government.

The Director, Access to Finance of GIZ in Nigeria, Yakubu Paiko explained that the project would support those in finished leather and garment sectors to improve their entrepreneurial capacity to produce quality products at the right quantity.

GIZ plans to expose the entrepreneurs to technology that would improve their productivity and quality. In addition, we are also going to link them to global names in the industry to help expand their markets.

In addition, Paiko stated that GIZ would explore various sources of finance that are available to enable the artisans to access loans to enhance their capacities.

In furtherance of this, GIZ would be hosting a roundtable stakeholders meeting where they will discuss regulatory framework that affects the leather and garment industries in Abia and Nigeria, at large.
The plan is for GIZ to reach about 25,000 businesses in Nigeria as a whole with Abia accounting for 5,000 out of that number.

The GIZ roundtable will hold in the month of August and Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and other relevant stakeholders are expected to be in attendance.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
8th August, 2019.

WE ARE PARTNERS IN PROGRESS - IKPEAZU TELLS ABIANS IN THE DIASPORA ON THEIR EDUCATIONAL ADVANCEMENT INITIATIVES.

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has commended Abia indigenes in diaspora for thinking home and deciding to support his education development through their planned provision of scholarship for Abia children.

The Governor was speaking yesterday at his Country Home,Umuobiakwa when he received a delegation of Abia State Indigenes in Disapora, United Kingdom, led by its President, Mr. Uche Kay. He promised that his government would do everything necessary to encourage them, assuring that he would provide the necessary ambience that make them achieve the establishment of their proposed school in the State.

Governor Ikpeazu reiterated his commitment to giving opportunity to all Abia people both at home and in diaspora to invest in the State. He disclosed that his administration intends to replicate Diaspora Communities in various countries of the world and draw developments from there. The Governor appreciated the delegation, saying that their programme would reduce his burden on educational development of Abia children, especially, the less privileged ones.

Earlier in his speech, the leader of the delegation and President, Mr. Uche Kay said Abians living in the United Kingdom are motivated by the Governor's educational development policy and decided to come home to assist in the education of Abia children. He disclosed that they have concluded plans to provide scholarship to five children in each of the 17 LGAs totalling 85 persons. The plan according to him is to make the schorlarship an annual one, revealing
that the target is to give 500 Abia children scholarship between now and 2023.

He explained that the scholarship scheme which is for students from JSS 1 to SS3 would cater for their uniforms, books, school fees, Junior and Senior WAEC and every other fee they have to pay doing the period. He added that the team has equally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the European Union to have a placement programme, where final year students of universities in the State would be taken to UK for a two month work experience, informing that the Diaspora team would take care of Visa, accommodation and feeding of the students.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Diaspora Matters and Special Duties, Dr. (Mrs.) Ngozi Ogbonna-Erondu was present at the visit.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
3rd August, 2019

IKPEAZU CONGRATULATES UCHE OGAH

The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, PhD has sent a warm message of Congratulations to Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, OON, on his nomination as Minister by President Muhammadu Buhari and his subsequent successful screening by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Governor Ikpeazu described Dr. Ogah as “a worthy and successful son of Abia State with a deep passion for public service” and expressed his profound joy and that of the people of Abia State on his emergence as a Minister Designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to the Governor, “There comes a time when primordial political considerations must give way for deliberate and concerted efforts geared towards the collective good of our people. This is such a time. As the sole representative designate of the people of Abia State at the Federal Executive Council; statesmanship, good conscience and love for our people demand that we forge a strategic collaboration that will benefit the generality of the people of Abia State irrespective of political affiliations”.

Governor Ikpeazu stated that he followed the screening process with keen interest, also thanked the three Senators from Abia State for working harmoniously to ensure that the process of Dr. Ogah’s confirmation by the Senate was seamless and devoid of any rancor from home, describing it as a clear example of the Abia Spirit of Unity.

Ikpeazu recalled with deep pride, the sterling performances of the last two Federal Ministers from the State, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala and Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah who brought pride to our State by using their exalted positions at the Federal Cabinet to drive the cause of the development of Abia State in addition to their primary assignments, and expressed confidence that Dr. Ogah will follow that same path, for the overall benefit of our people.

In the words of Ikpeazu, “I am confident that whichever portfolio it pleases the President to assign to you, you will bring to bear on the assignment, your years of experience in the corporate and business sectors of our economy” and urged him to see this opportunity as a platform to serve our Country and help bring to the front burner at the Federal Cabinet, issues affecting Abia State, especially the state of federal infrastructure in the state.

Governor Ikpeazu assured the Honorable Minister designate of the cooperation and support of the entire paraphernalia of the Government of Abia State under his leadership and the prayers of our people in his new assignment.

“Let me therefore end by wishing you, my dear brother, my friend and Honorable Minister Designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on behalf of my family, Government and the entire people of Abia State, good health, sound mind and an excellent spirit as you prepare for this great national assignment, and I pray the good Lord to bless you and your family”. Ikpeazu concludes.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
2nd August, 2019.

2019/2020 RICE PLANTING SEASON KICKS OFF IN ABIA STATE.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has officially flagged-off the 2019/2020 Rice Farming season in the State with a charge for the farmers to make adequate use of the improved rice seedlings and rice implements Abia government has provided for them.

Speaking at the event held at Bende Agro Services Rice Field at Okpotom Bende, in Bende Local Government Area, the Governor represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Uzoamaka Ikonne, promised to sustain the Abia farmers to make them produce enough rice that would feed the State.

According to her, gone are the days when farmers engage in subsistence farming, as Abia state is investing more in commercial farming and also charged Abians not to depend on crude oil only as the major pillar of Nigeria's economy but should see Agriculture as a means of employment for the teeming Youths.

She noted that the administration started with palm oil revolution in the state through the Community based Oil Palm Development with Tenera palm seedlings.
She commended the Governor for his support for rice production saying that his support for agriculture is as a result of his love and passion for his people which birthed the desire to partner with Rice farmers in the state.

She also assured farmers in the state of the willingness of the Ikpeazu-led administration to take Agriculture in the state to the next level.

In his speech, the Co-ordinator of the Abia State Accelerated Rice Development Program, Pastor Okechukwu Dike assured the Government and People of Abia State that in the next two years, importation of rice would stop, as they would be producing enough rice that would be able to feed Abia people and even export.

He disclosed the existence of Osikapa Abia Center in the state, where rice is milled and sold and also noted that hundreds of thousands of bags of Osikapa Abia has been sold as they are poised to produce more.

Pastor Okechukwu Dike appreciated the Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu for providing Abia farmers with farm implements and improved rice seedlings to the farmers and also commended the Permanent Secretary for always being there for the farmers in the state and called on the state government to help revamp the dam which was constructed by World Bank but is currently going moribund.

In their separate speeches earlier at the event, the State Secretaries of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (ALFAN) and the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Hon. Ndudim Ikeluo and High Chief Okechukwu Christopher Akobundu respectively, thanked the Governor for his tireless efforts in Agriculture and particularly in Rice production and prayed that in no distant time, Abia state will be ranked number one in rice production in Nigeria and further called on their members never to grow weary but to join hands together to make Agriculture in Abia an envy for all states.

Chief Akobundu thanked the Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture and also the Co-ordinator for identifying rice farmers also stating the readiness of their members to do more.

Highlights of the event were the ceremonial planting of rice and the presentation of farming implements and rice improved seedlings to the farmers to support them.

The new improved high yield breed of rice seedlings were procured by the Governor from the Government of Cross River State.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
1st August, 2019.

NO RUGA ANYWHERE IN THE SOUTH EAST --- SOUTH EAST GOVERNORS

Governors of the South East region of the Country have restated their earlier stand that no part of the region is available for the RUGA Program.

The Governors stated this in a Communique read on their behalf by the Chairman of the Forum of South East Governors and Ebonyi State Governor, Engr Dave Umahi, on the sidelines of their meeting at the Enugu State Government House.

The Forum reaffirmed their belief that the South East has comparative advantages in agriculture and resolved to put funds together to fund our people who are interested in Rice, Cassava, Cow rearing, Piggery, Goat rearing, Poultry, Fishery and some other cash crops permitted by our soil and advised Igbos who are interested in these areas to contact their States for further engagement.

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu is part of the meeting.

The meeting is still on as I post this as the Forum is about meeting with various committees and interest groups.

Full details of the Communique will be made available on this page shortly.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
28th July, 2019.
6.17pm.

DIASPORA REMITTANCES, A KEY COMPONENT TO OUR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT----- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has made it clear that the remittances and returns from Nigerians who live in the diaspora are key elements in our national development.

Ikpeazu made this known this night when he received a delegation of diaspora Nigerians who paid him a courtesy visit at the Governor’s Lodge, Abuja as part of the National Diaspora Day organized by the NIGERIANS IN THE DIASPORA COMMISSION ( NIDCOM) held in Abuja.

Governor Ikpeazu thanked Nigerians in the diaspora for their relentless contributions to national development through their various activities in their countries of residence and hailed their commitment to critical issues at home.

He particularly hailed Abia indigenes in the Diaspora for keeping faith with his administration through the creation of critical linkages through which different kinds of assistance come home. He recounted with delight, the various donations of medical equipment from Abians in the diaspora which have helped to boost health care delivery in the state, and called on them to move a step further and invest in human development through scholarships and grants to bright and indigent students at home.

He said that his administration will continue to create strong partnerships with Abians in the diaspora with a view to providing additional channels for meaningful cooperation.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation and Special Adviser to the Governor on Diaspora Matters, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Ogbonna-Erondu told the Governor that they were in Nigeria for their Diaspora Summit which provides a platform for Nigerians living in different parts of the world to come home and rub minds on issues of development with a view to expanding their capacity to get more involved in development activities back home.

She informed the Governor that Abians in the diaspora will, later this year launch the ABIA DIASPORA EDUCATIONAL ENDOWMENT FUND which will provide annual scholarships for 60 students drawn from across the state. The scholarship will cover every single fee from JS1 to SS3 and thereafter to the tertiary institutions. The process for the selection will be competitive and worked out in conjunction with the State Ministry of Education.

Mr. Godson Azu, an Abian resident in the UK later presented the Governor with a copy of a book he wrote on Nigeria’s Political Development.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
25th July, 2019.

IKPEAZU’S INVESTMENT DRIVE...HOPE RISES FOR IMPORT/EXPORT BUSINESS IN ABIA STATE AS THE NTIGHA DRY PORT PROJECT GAINS TRACTION

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has restated the total commitment of his administration to the provision of enabling economic environment that will turn Abia State into a choice investment destination in Nigeria.

Ikpeazu made this remark this night at the Governor’s Lodge Abuja while receiving in audience the Federal Government Concessionaire for the Dry Port Project at Ntigha, Isiala Ngwa North LGA of Abia State, EASTGATE DRY PORT PROJECTS LIMITED.

The CEO of EASTGATE, Bill Nkemdirim came to the Governor to formally introduce to him the company that will handle the actual construction of the project, Messers China Tianchen Engineering Corporation and to further inform him that every arrangement for the construction works have been concluded and that they are ready to start work at the site.

Governor Ikpeazu expressed deep delight at this development and assured them that his government will provide every necessary support to ensure that their work is seamless. He stated that the Dry Port Project will be a powerful catalyst to the economic development of the state and indeed, the entire South East region. He noted that upon completion, businessmen who engage in Import and Export will not have to go beyond the state to enjoy port services as containers to and from the region will now be discharged at the port, for onward movement to their final destinations.

Apart from the direct impact on businesses, Ikpeazu added that the location of the dry port will catalyze the growth and development of indirect businesses around the area in addition to the provision of jobs. He added that the coming of the Enyimba Economic City will combine with the Dry Port to positively turn around the economy of the State and the South East region permanently.

Stressing the importance of inter-modality in Ports operations, Ikpeazu challenged the operator to construct a 3km rail line from the project site at Ntigha to link Nbawsi which is a major railway stop, so as to link the Port to other parts of the country.

Earlier, the CEO of EASTGATE DRY PORT PROJECTS LTD, Bill Nkemdirim informed the Governor that they were fully prepared to commence construction and they are pleased to have engaged a world class organization, CHINA TIANCHEN ENGINEERING CORPORATION for the project.

Founded in 1953, China Tianchen is one of the leading international engineering corporations in the world providing engineering consulting, design, procurement, construction management and commission supervision. The company has successfully commissioned thousands of projects within China and in over thirty countries cutting across Asia, America, Africa, Europe, etc.

Mr. Nkemdirim told the Governor that the Dry Port Project is being undertaken under a BOOT- Build, Own, Operate and Transfer arrangement for a period of thirty years. He said that the Federal Government awarded the contract to his company on account of his established track record and experience in managing port operations. He added that the project will turn around the economic fortunes of the state and the entire South East region as it will be the first Dry Port in the region.
He said that the construction period is expected to be 24 months.

The delegation from China Tianchen was led by Mr. Liang Shen, Project Manager of the Energy Division of the organization as well as the Consultant to the Project, Jude Menes of Menes Konsult.

The delegation will depart for Abia State tomorrow to enable the Chinese Team visit the project site for pre construction preliminary evaluation.

The Leader of the Chinese Team later presented the Governor with a souvenir.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
24th July, 2019.

“PRIDE IS THE VIRUS THAT DESTROYS TALENT. REMAIN HUMBLE AND YOU CAN RULE THE WORLD OF FOOTBALL” ---- IKPEAZU COUNSELS SUPER EAGLES STAR, SAMUEL CHUKWUEZE

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has urged young people who are blessed with talents to remain humble and hardworking because “pride is the virus that destroys talent”.

The Governor stated this today at Government House Umuahia when he received Super Eagles star, Samuel Chukwueze who paid him a courtesy visit to mark his return from the Africa Nations Cup where he and other teammates in the Super Eagles won the bronze medal.

While congratulating the young Abian for making himself, his family and the people of Abia State proud, Ikpeazu warned him to avoid being misled by a momentary feeling of triumph but focus on building a career that will last long and become successful.

According to the Governor, “You are a young man with prodigious talent. But you must know that talent can showcase you but you need to work very hard to remain at the top. Talent is not enough to keep you at the very top of your game for too long. You must work extra hard. You must take your trainings seriously. You must be humble. You must respect your coaches and take their instructions seriously. If training is by 6pm, get there at 5. This is no longer your days at Umuahia. This is professional soccer, a career that has the potential of making you a multi millionaire. It also can destroy you, if you mismanage it”.

Continuing, Governor Ikpeazu said “The easiest way to destroy your career is to become proud of what you think you have achieved. Once pride sets in, you are finished. I have seen players...good players who had the world at their feet but pride didn’t allow them excel. Players like Tarila Okoronwanta and Etim Esin. Remain humble. Remember where you are coming from, your poor parents. Stay safe in Europe. Avoid drugs and drinking”.

The Governor was not done yet. He said “One more area you must take very seriously is the area of managing your resources. Soccer brings a lot of money. You will earn millions in hard currency. How you manage the money will determine a lot in your life. Football career is like a flower that blossoms in the morning and withers in the evening. You cannot play football beyond a certain age. As a University teacher, I can remain at work till almost 70 but a footballer cannot. You must invest wisely in ventures that can guarantee you good returns. Employ good investment advisors. I have seen ex footballers who were very good and made lots of money but are begging for food today. I saw a former prominent footballer in Aba two weeks ago and all he could boast of was a bicycle. I felt very sad indeed. Invest your money wisely my son and you will be happy for it. On behalf of the government and people of Abia State, we thank you for making us proud and welcome you back from Egypt and pray the good Lord to grant you a successful and injury free soccer career”.

Samuel Chukwueze then presented the Governor with his Super Eagles jersey, the bronze medal he won with the Super Eagles and the prize he won as the Man of the Match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
The Governor rewarded the young man with some handsome cash.

Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, Permanent Secretary , Ministry of Youth Development,Friday Ikpeoha and General Manager of ASPIMS, Dr-acb Agbazuere we’re part of the event.

Samuel Chukwueze was accompanied on the visit by the Member representing Umuahia East in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwudi Apugo, and ASEPA General Manager, Victor Apugo.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
22nd July, 2019.

ABIA IS FULLY READY TO HOST A MODULAR REFINERY ----- IKPEAZU TELLS ESKOM MANAGEMENT

The Governor of Abia state, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has declared his readiness and commitment to take necessary steps to actualize the dream of establishing a modular refinery in Abia state.

The Governor made the statement while receiving in audience a delegation of the management of ESKOM PLC at Government House Umuahia, where he stated that the only way forward is to create jobs for Abians and emphasized the importance of job creation as a direct link to security and sustainable economy for those in the South East and South South regions of the country.
He stated further that this is philosophy behind the flagship project of the Enyimba Economic City and the proposed Agro-Industrial City in Umuahia stressing that Agriculture and Industrialization are fundamental to the vision of his administration.

The Governor also pointed out that his administration will not spare any effort in providing all the necessary institutional support needed to get the projects working.

He expressed confidence that the project will bear fruits and promised to collaborate with the company to bring the project to limelight.

He also noted that Oil and Gas are amongst the five pillars of his administration, as well as laying emphasis on Trade and Commerce stressing that the Made in Aba paradigm was about the ingenuity of the Nigerian youth and particular, Ndigbo who have become known for the works of their enterprising spirit.

He also noted that the Federal Government has recognized Abia state as the SME capital of Nigeria, stating further that the State stood at The Number Three State in Foreign Direct Investment by the close of business in 2018, courtesy of the prospect of the Enyimba Economic City Project.

The Governor thanked them for coming, noting that their presence today underscored the fact that Abia can turn some of her natural resources into money for the benefit of Nigeria.

Speaking earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of David Twin Oil West Africa, Chief Emmanuel Obiora and his counterpart at the ESKOM PLC, Chief Orjiakor in their separate speeches said that the essence of their visit was to explore and cement the possibility of establishing a modular refinery in Abia state. According to them, the Governor has demonstrated huge passion for investments in the state, to the point that no serious business that seeks expansion and growth can afford to ignore Abia State.

The ESKOM PLC CEO, further noted that the company is active in the Oil and Gas sector, Energy, Real Estate and Construction, assuring that they possess capacity and financial muscle to deliver on the proposed project.

The delegation was led by front line business man, Chief Jerry Kalu.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
22nd July, 2019.

“PRIDE IS THE VIRUS THAT DESTROYS TALENT, REMAIN HUMBLE AND YOU CAN RULE THE WORLD OF FOOTBALL” ---- IKPEAZU COUNSELS SUPER EAGLES STAR, SAMUEL CHUKWUEZE

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has urged young people who are blessed with talents to remain humble and hardworking because “pride is the virus that destroys talent”.

The Governor stated this today at Government House Umuahia when he received Super Eagles star, Samuel Chukwueze who paid him a courtesy visit to mark his return from the Africa Nations Cup where he and other teammates in the Super Eagles won the bronze medal.

While congratulating the young Abian for making himself, his family and the people of Abia State proud, Ikpeazu warned him to avoid being misled by a momentary feeling of triumph but focus on building a career that will last long and become successful.

According to the Governor, “You are a young man with prodigious talent. But you must know that talent can showcase you but you need to work very hard to remain at the top. Talent is not enough to keep you at the very top of your game for too long. You must work extra hard. You must take your trainings seriously. You must be humble. You must respect your coaches and take their instructions seriously. If training is by 6pm, get there at 5. This is no longer your days at Umuahia. This is professional soccer, a career that has the potential of making you a multi millionaire. It also can destroy you, if you mismanage it”.

Continuing, Governor Ikpeazu said “The easiest way to destroy your career is to become proud of what you think you have achieved. Once pride sets in, you are finished. I have seen players...good players who had the world at their feet but pride didn’t allow them excel. Players like Tarila Okoronwanta and Etim Esin. Remain humble. Remember where you are coming from, your poor parents. Stay safe in Europe. Avoid drugs and drinking”.

The Governor was not done yet. He said “One more area you must take very seriously is the area of managing your resources. Soccer brings a lot of money. You will earn millions in hard currency. How you manage the money will determine a lot in your life. Football career is like a flower that blossoms in the morning and withers in the evening. You cannot play football beyond a certain age. As a University teacher, I can remain at work till almost 70 but a footballer cannot. You must invest wisely in ventures that can guarantee you good returns. Employ good investment advisors. I have seen ex footballers who were very good and made lots of money but are begging for food today. I saw a former prominent footballer in Aba two weeks ago and all he could boast of was a bicycle. I felt very sad indeed. Invest your money wisely my son and you will be happy for it. On behalf of the government and people of Abia State, we thank you for making us proud and welcome you back from Egypt and pray the good Lord to grant you a successful and injury free soccer career”.

Samuel Chukwueze then presented the Governor with his Super Eagles jersey, the bronze medal he won with the Super Eagles and the prize he won as the Man of the Match between the Super Eagles and the Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
The Governor rewarded the young man with some handsome cash.

Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, Permanent Secretary , Ministry of Youth Development,Friday Ikpeoha and General Manager of ASPIMS, Dr-acb Agbazuere we’re part of the event.

Samuel Chukwueze was accompanied on the visit by the Member representing Umuahia East in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwudi Apugo, and ASEPA General Manager, Victor Apugo.

[b]
Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq[/b]
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
22nd July, 2019.

WE TREASURE OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA --- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has stated that the government and people of Abia State deeply treasure the relationship we share with the United States of America.

The Governor made this known this afternoon while receiving in audience, a delegation from the United States Consulate General in Nigeria who came on a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House Umuahia.

Ikpeazu told the delegation that the American Embassy in Nigeria has always had a robust relationship with the state and this was further strengthened with the visit of the Ambassador, Mr. Symington to Umuahia some months back. The Governor thanked the American government particularly because of their support to medicare in Abia State through the donation of several kinds of medical equipment which are distributed to various hospitals in the State. He assured that the Mother and Child Care Hospital Project in the State will have huge American content when completed.

The Governor also noted that the diaspora inflow into the state from our citizens who live and work in the US is a major factor in our economy and thanked the US Government for supporting our people.

He also informed them about the Enyimba Economic City and looked forward to having American companies as key operators in the Project and assured them that his government is taking security matters very seriously and has continued to provide support to security agencies in the state.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation and Political Officer in the American Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Shashank Iyer told the Governor that they were in Umuahia as part of a wider tour of the South East states with Abia being the first in line.
He conveyed the formal congratulations from the Ambassador of the US to the Governor on his successful re-election into office and noted that the Abia State Governor is a leader who is committed to reforms which explains why the American Embassy takes Abia State very seriously in her programs.

“The tour of the South East by the Embassy is to expand and seek new partnerships with the people and government of the states of the South East with Abia being at the top of that list”.

The meeting later went into a closed door session.

Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, Honorable Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Permanent Secretaries and other aides to the Governor were at the event.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
22nd July, 2019.

WE TREASURE OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ---- IKPEAZU

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has stated that the government and people of Abia State deeply treasure the relationship we share with the United States of America.

The Governor made this known this afternoon while receiving in audience, a delegation from the United States Consulate General in Nigeria who came on a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House Umuahia.

Ikpeazu told the delegation that the American Embassy in Nigeria has always had a robust relationship with the state and this was further strengthened with the visit of the Ambassador, Mr. Symington to Umuahia some months back. The Governor thanked the American government particularly because of their support to medicare in Abia State through the donation of several kinds of medical equipment which are distributed to various hospitals in the State. He assured that the Mother and Child Care Hospital Project in the State will have huge American content when completed.

The Governor also noted that the diaspora inflow into the state from our citizens who live and work in the US is a major factor in our economy and thanked the US Government for supporting our people.

He also informed them about the Enyimba Economic City and looked forward to having American companies as key operators in the Project and assured them that his government is taking security matters very seriously and has continued to provide support to security agencies in the state.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation and Political Officer in the American Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Shashank Iyer told the Governor that they were in Umuahia as part of a wider tour of the South East states with Abia being the first in line.
He conveyed the formal congratulations from the Ambassador of the US to the Governor on his successful re-election into office and noted that the Abia State Governor is a leader who is committed to reforms which explains why the American Embassy takes Abia State very seriously in her programs.

“The tour of the South East by the Embassy is to expand and seek new partnerships with the people and government of the states of the South East with Abia being at the top on that list”.

The meeting later went into a closed door session.

Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, Honorable Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Permanent Secretaries and other aides to the Governor were at the event.

Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
22nd July, 2019.

GOOD GOVERNANCE AND THE ENDLESS ACCOLADES ON IKPEAZU

By Adimchinobi Onyenso, a public affairs analyst

In any political system world over, the citizens often remain the pupil of an administration's eye. This is not unconnected with the fact that it is constitutionally incumbent on leaders to utilize the people's commonwealth for the common good of all in an unapologetic utilitarian sense.

Indeed, cursory assessment of all forms of governance periscopes that Democratic system is most preferred by most nations. This is not surprising after all, considering that in an undiluted Democratic system of government, the people have their rights and privileges enshrined in the constitution as well as have the room to voice out against any misgivings, avoidable errors and incorrigibility from the government of the day in a constructive and properly marshalled fashion.

Be that as it may, procrastinating in providing the needed democratic ethos occasions ill feelings from the masses about the leadership, but when the leadership is visionary and masses oriented, it is thus, incontrovertible that the led, nay the electorates will throw their weight behind such a government. Moreover, it is not only the populace that accesses the successes and milestones of a government. There are other non governmental Organizations and pro-democracy groups that rate a government as well as investigates her programs and policies with a fine-tooth comb, to either adulate or award the leader for his giants strides. And these organizations with large follower-ship remain unbiased and uncompromising as their judgements are digested in the sociopolitical space without any iota of doubt nor encumbrances.

The above describes the recent happenings in the leadership theatre of God's Own State as the government of the day under the leadership of Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu demonstrated uncommon courage, vision and meticulousness in statecraft since he assumed the position of Governor of Abia state some three years ago which has earned him avalanche of awards, recognitions and commendations from far and near.

This does not happen in a serendipitous occurrence as good leadership is wont to be recognized world over. Yes, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu does things uniquely. He met Abia in tatters, both the infrastructure, economy and other indicators of a progressing State. Yet has done commendably to turn around the fortunes of the state.

With unparalleled commitment, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu folded his working sleeves, kick started and surpassed comparatively in infrastructural rejuvenation in Abia as well as turned our dear State into a huge construction site, even with a dwindled and meager federal allocations. Today, in the length and breadth of Abia there is serious road constructions with reputable construction firms. Therefore, there is no argument over the longevity of the projects embarked upon by this masses friendly Governor.

The evident revolution of Governor Ikpeazu's administration is not only limited to infrastructural upgrade as the educational sector has become revived with dilapidated primary and secondary schools in the State renovated, and not forgetting the ongoing construction of many new model schools that cuts across the three senatorial districts of the State. Unarguably, Democratic dispensation in Abia has taken education to utopian heights, with our tertiary institutions benefiting from government reforms. Abians can now boost of better and affordable healthcare occasioned by the newest facilities and techniques employed to make the State's health sector more efficient and accessible.

One area in which our ebullient Governor deserves special adulation is in engendering practical Democratic norm in Abia. Unlike in the dark days, the government is participatory, the era of draconian leadership has been erased in the political cum administrative lexicon of the State. This is in truism, a fresh breeze as proper feedback from the events in the corridors of power is given to the citizenry periodically.

Therefore, this award by the Authority Newspaper and pass mark on the Governor by many other social political groups is an added impetus and vigor for more dividends of democracy to be realized in Abia State.

Congratulations our ever working Governor. Abians are happy with your administration's Midas touch.

To every action, there is a commensurate felicitous reaction. Simply put, the endorsement cum solidarity support in favour of Governor Ikpeazu across all the divides and groups in God's own State, is not happening in a vacuum. It is an offshoot of the populist and development driven style of the present adminstration that ignited it.

For instance, the trader in Ariaria International Market who had not seen any good road network within the market and its environs for donkey years may have to fight with you if you dare cast aspersions on a Governor that has built access roads to the market.

Today its history that traders and customers grapple with flood and mud water in Ariaria international market, which has invariably, boosted their sells as all customers that left in droves are now back to do business without pains. Same goes to the trader in portharcourt road, Eziukwu market etc.

The businessman, keke drivers alike who used to close business by 7.pm because of insecurity today have thrown their weight behind a working Governor, that has strengthened the security machinery of Abia State, which is crucial in enhancing commerce and industry.

Some ailing elders in the society whose caretakers had almost given up on them who are under the care of Abia State Government may have no other words than heaps of blessing on the masses friendly Governor Ikpeazu.

Governor Ikpeazu is a man who has direct touch with the people. And so, the people have had no option than to back him. To me, the endorsements are also a show of love for our dear Governor.

The message remains that 2019 is a possibility.

These are union leaders of all markets in Abia State. Hold on. You go hear more torri.
So......... kota sign

GOVERNOR IKPEAZU: A BEACON OF HOPE IN SOCIAL INVESTMENT

By Chinenye Nwaogu

During the electioneering campaigns in 2015, one of the promises made by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu (PhD) was that as a Governor, he would hold the hand of the weakest in the society and give them hope for a better tomorrow. The life history of the Governor exemplifies hope, sustained through hard work, preparation and taking advantage of opportunities that abound. Through deliberate government actions and programmes Governor Ikpeazu has touched lives, impacted on communities and created a pathway for the most vulnerable in Abia to find succor.

As a Governor under the platform of the PDP coming from the South Eastern part of Nigeria, the Governor had set an example as a leader who understood the difference between the time for politics and the time for Governance. From the world go, the Governor knew that he had a mandate to serve the people of Abia State working with key development stakeholders to improve the life of the average Abia man/woman. He tried to set aside ego and pecuniary interest or playing to gallery to ensure that he worked closely with all agencies and interested parties to create a support ecosystem for the massive development of Abia State.

One area the Governor has so far distinguished himself is the domestication of federal introduced – Social Investment Programme. Leveraging the four-component part programme, Governor Ikpeazu has ran the most robust and effective Social Investment Programme in Eastern Nigeria if not beyond. Continuously, Abia Social Investment Office has remained the reference example to other Eastern States. Hear His Excellency the Vice President Prof Yemi Osinbajo SAN, GCON "On each of my visits to Abia State, I see something new, something different and something innovative. I am proud of Governor Ikpeazu and the passion he brings to governance. Perhaps, the greatest thing he has done, in my view, is the wonderful collaboration he engineers between the federal government and Abia State.
The telemedicine project is yet another of such innovations and it is worthy of note that Abia is the very first state in Nigeria to formally embrace this initiative.

From N-POWER to the School Feeding Program, from power generation and transmission to security and infrastructure, Governor Ikpeazu adopts a bipartisan approach in his engagements with the federal government. He brings an added exciting personal touch to the relationship, which translates, into a stronger relationship between Abia State and the Federal Government for the overall interest of the people of Abia State. I am indeed proud of my friend and brother, His Excellency, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu".

Under the N-Power Programme, the Abia State Social Investment Office has successfully placed about 12,000 hitherto, young, unemployed graduates in the N-Power graduate volunteer programme where they earn a monthly stipend of N30,000 naira. While some of the employed youths are posted to public primary schools to support the education sector, others are posted to health centres for the health sector and others services the agriculture sector.

This programme injects the sum of 360 million naira monthly into the state’s economy. Another 1,670 candidates are being trained at different centres in the State under the N-Build Scheme to equip them with different building services skills. This programme runs on the foundation of the state-initiated E4E programme, which emphasizes retooling Abia youths to become, not just self reliant but competitive at a time of high technological advancement. These programmes in addition to others alike have continued to impact positively on the lives of the young people in the state. Even though the federal government pays them, the state played pivotal role by mobilizing the youths during registration and screening processes. The state social investment office continues to play support services to the beneficiaries.

While campaigning to become the Governor of Abia, Okezie Ikpeazu PhD assured Abians that he will return the state as the MSME capital of Nigeria. Aba is one of the cities in Abia that serves as its commercial capital. Aba is a city with largest concentration of SMEs in Nigeria. Through GEEP, a platform that delivers small loans to small businesses, the State Social Investment Office has funded about 17,865 small businesses with loan amounts ranging from 50,000 to 100,000. As further show of commitment to ensure that the issue of access to capital is no longer a major challenge to small businesses in the State, the SIP Office entered into partnership with BoI to provide a loan basket of N3billion naira, targeting about 30,000 individual businesses. The requirement for accessing the fund was also simplified to make it very easy for rural women with no collateral to access the funds. This programme has impacted very positively on rural women who run petty businesses and trade. This is not all the Governor has done to improve the lot of businesses in the state at that level. In partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency, the traders at Ariaria International Market will soon enjoy uninterrupted power supply on a regular basis. The pilot scheme has delivered uninterrupted power supply to about 1,000 shops for the past 10 months.

Governor Ikpeazu like the Vice President mentioned, seeks for partnership that will touch the lives of the most vulnerable in the society. Upon assumption of office, the State Government in partnership with the Vicar Hope Foundation, the pet project of the Wife of the Governor launched a free school meal programme targeting pupils in public primary schools. The pilot scheme proved very successful and the programme was immediately expanded. Incidentally the Federal Government launched the Home Grown School Feeding Programme and requested interested states to partner to deliver the foods to primaries 1-3 pupils public primary schools. Abia having set the template and structures for the success of the programme adopted the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme and expanded the programme to primary 6. Consequently, today Abia is the only state in the country feeding from primary 1 to 6.

The impact of this programme has immediately pushed school enrolment from about 150,000 to a little over 300,000 within such a short period of implementation. The programme engages over 3000 rural women as cooks and injects about 345 million naira monthly into the state’s economy affecting the agriculture and several other sectors. The programme has also enhanced school performance of these pupils supporting the continuous performance of Abia in national and international public examinations.

Governor Ikpeazu has continued to offer hope to the most vulnerable members of the society, pushing people up the social ladder. The next set of people being targeted now is the most poor in our communities who through conditional cash transfer about 17,000 of them will receive monthly inflow of 5,000.

These social inclusion and intervention programmes continues to provide succor to the citizens of the state especially the most vulnerable.

GOVERNOR IKPEAZU SHORING ABIA INDEPENDENT REVENUE THROUGH AGRICULTURE; THE OKPARA EXAMPLE


By Adimchinobi Onyenso, a public affairs analyst

It is not an overstatement to say that Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu has practically revived the comatose socio-economic activities in God's own State such that today, there are smiles of renewed hope on the faces of Abians. His multifold achievement is hinged on the 5 pillars of the administration viz; Agriculture, commerce and industry, SME development, education and Oil and Gas with other enablers like Health, Infrastructure etc.

Agriculture as a critical sector in the Socio-economic life of the nation is highly indispensable, considering the fact that up to 70% of the nation's population is actively engaged in and ekes out their livelihood through it. It also provides a veritable source of raw materials for our industries, hence, it is often rightly said that "no farmer no nation".

It is rather disheartening that the discovery of crude oil in large quantity in the early 1970s led to the utter neglect of this very important sector which invariably fueled systemic corruption as though the discovery of oil is a cursed blessing. The fluctuating of the oil prices in the international market and the slide in the year 2015 to the ebb of $28 per barrel made it imperative for us as a nation to speedily resort to agriculture as a reliable avenue to stabilize our foreign exchange earnings.

Thus, the Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu's administration in Abia has deemed Agriculture as a workable means of hastily diversifying from over-dependence on crude oil revenue (FAAC) in order to pull the State's economy from the woods. Therefore, the oil palm revolution of the present administration is on track and only comparable to that of the premier of the eastern region, late Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okwaras era, when the Malaysians came to the eastern region to outsource palm seedlings that is today the bedrock of their metaphoric palm oil industry.

The emphasis on oil palm stems from the fact that as at the year 2015, palm oil was better priced in the global market than crude oil. This justifies why the State, having looked at its comparative advantage through the Agric ministry embarked on a massive palm plantation with over 4,000,000 Tenera species seedling grown, planted and sold across the state to help replace the old less productive species. The ministry targets to hit 7.5 million seedlings before the end of 2022 to boast the State independent revenue.

The government of the day has also made very significant effort in increasing the rice production capacity, targeted at meeting local consumption demands and for exports, hence the popularized "Abia Rice" brand. In addition, the abandoned Igu Dam is being rebuilt to make it possible for all year rice production in the State.

The good news did not end there as the ministry of Agriculture for the first time, embarked on a large scale mushroom production. What seemed as an experiment initially is now a success story as Abians and Nigerians alike are now patronizing it. Moreover, it is in tune with Governor Ikpeazu's self sustenance mantra for each of the ministries.

The Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's result-driven administration has also made extensive investment in poultry and fish production. The Nsulu poultry cluster is a laudable brainchild of this administration. Admirably, the phase 1 of 100 poultry pens of 2000 birds is now on stream, with arrangements on top gear to replicate similar farms across the two other senatorial zones of Abia North and South of the State. The State Government is also partnering with the Bank Of Industry and the Federal Government on increasing egg production.

The State government also has comparative advantages in cashew and cocoa production and has made tremendous effort in funding commercial Agriculture through grants and loans made accessible to farmers in order to create wealth for the State as there are also plans in the pipeline to establish processing plants for both in the State.

The Governor Okezie Ikpeazu led Government through the Agric ministry has also procured mechanized farming equipment, being leased to Abia farmers for seamless all year round farmland cultivation at affordable rates.

Fertilizers are critical in ensuring bumper harvests, as such, he subsidize fertilizers to the State farmers every farming season, coupled with extension services to enlighten farmers on the best and newest ways to boost crop yields.

In addition, following the payment of FADAMA 3 counterpart funds, no less than 300 young Abia farmers benefitted from N2.5 Billion Naira individual grant been part of the "Farmpreneur", a project of the World Bank.

With these result yielding efforts and reforms targeted at improving Agriculture in the State, increasing wealth, thus bettering the lives of Abians, our people should hinge their hopes of a better tomorrow on Dr. Ikpeazu in all spheres of governance.

GOVERNOR IKPEAZU SYNONYMOUS WITH THE BIBLICAL NEHEMIAH

By Adimchi Onyenso, a public affairs analyst

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu PhD, was on the media glare once again as the Christian Youth Leadership Assembly, last week honoured him as the Nehemiah of our time.

Such description by the group on our "silent achiever", if I am to employ the words of Prince Uche Secondus, PDP's national chairman on his recent visit to the State, remains not just so fitting but also apposite to a Governor of many firsts, especially when one considers other enormous accolades he has recently received. Such encomiums were only telling about the Governor's enormous feats and accomplishments. Results they say, don't lie!

To put into perspective, biblical inferences would be drawn with a clear juxtaposition of the life and the leadership situations of the biblical Nehemiah and the Abia's Nehemiah to see where they intertwine as well as the derivable lessons.

Jerusalem, as we all know is the city of God; while Abia unquestioningly remains God's own State.

Chronicling the book of Nehemiah, is was evident that the city had become a ruinous heap as Nehemiah inquires about it and he was not happy about the condition of the city, hence his intent of rebuilding the collapsed city. In the same way, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu PhD was not equally happy about the level Abia had regressed over the years and sought out means to resuscitate the State.

So, as Nehemiah served king Artaxerxes wine, there was much worry on his face which the king inquired about and Nehemiah opened up by pleading to the king to allow him go and rebuild Jerusalem; a request the king strangely granted including unbelievable logistics and Nehemiah was set out to rebuild the city. Similarly, Governor Okezie ikpeazu PhD, equally inquired by contesting for the gubernatorial elections in Abia which shall become a legitimate platform upon which the level of decadence hitherto in the State is currently being combated. And true to type, he won.

When irredentist and Naysayers like Sanballat, Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard it, they were so much disturbed that someone had come to promote the welfare of the Israelites; a similar situation which also played out in Abia as some opposition politicians were disturbed about the victory and the administration's plan to revamp the State. These opposition politicians even got to gutter levels when they declared that the impending projects from the new administration will be straw projects which, when ridden by a fox, would collapse. The same way Sanballat and Tobiah attempted to rubbish the efforts of Nehemiah through misinformation and propaganda.

As if their propaganda was not enough the trio plotted to fight Jerusalem and stirred trouble against it just as was the case in Abia where troubles were stirred by some meddlesome interlopers and fueled by even outsiders without a stake in the Abia project so that Governor Ikpeazu's effort will become frustrated. Yes, then contractual agreement with the State Government were almost crippled.

Yet again, they ambushed Jerusalem to take over the city just like the surreptitious securing of certificate of return in Abia by some passerby. God foiled the attempt and from thence, the Israelites were on guard while building the city.

Above all, when the wall was completed and all the enemies and all the surrounding nations heard it, they became afraid and lost their self confidence because they realized that the marvelous work had been done by the help of God. So shall through God's marvelous works and the relentless efforts of Governor Ikpeazu shall the works be completed even beyond 2019.

..........................................................................
Inspired by the book of Nehemiah chapters 1,2,4 and 6

INFRASTRUCTURAL REVOLUTION IN ABIA; A PATHWAY TO ECONOMIC RENAISSANCE

By Adimchinobi Onyenso, a public affairs analyst.

Availability of enough infrastructural facilities is indeed one of the indices for rating the socioeconomic advancement of any society. Little wonder much emphasis is usually placed on it by serious administrations. Be that as it may, there is the need for the different tiers of government to invest heavily on infrastructure as it is sure bait to attracting investors and tourists alike.
Good road network, for instance enhances commerce, industry and Agriculture. So the agricultural produce from the far flung rural areas can be taken to the urban areas where it is better priced.
Under this Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's administration, social infrastructure is receiving the required boost. It is of note that this administration met a huge infrastructural decay; as such Governor Ikpeazu folded his working sleeves to reverse the downward trend.
Aba, the economic melting point of the East had hitherto suffered undue neglect. Today, the present administration has reversed that trend also. The Government projection on road construction kicked off with construction of adjoining roads such as Ukaegbu, Umuola and later others like MCC-SAMEK, Osusu roads among others, to ensure seamless vehicular movement to the markets and the bustling city centres, a development that has greatly alleviated the sufferings of motorists eve when there are traffic jams.
The second was the building of major roads to the markets such as Faulks and Eziukwu roads among others to enhance trade and commerce as Enyimba city is renowned for her large and busy markets. The third was the building of major entrances to the city centers such as Portharcourt and Aba-Owerri roads. The fourth was opening up the linking roads between Abia and other States such as Rivers, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, and Anambra States targeted at increasing the inter-state movement, trade, commerce and social relations. 

Also, the federal Government has continued in earnest to build the Enugu-Portharcourt Express road to Aba and from Aba to Portharcourt with quadruple carriage ways. That is not all. The Federal Government is building another federal road from Owerri to Aba which invariably will help people coming from the Lagos axis to have easy access to Aba city center to patronize made in Aba goods.
Even the abandoned Federal roads in the State, under the watch of Dr. Okezie ikpeazu are not being left out of this infrastructural revolution being witnessed today. With respect to that, while flagging off for construction, one of the federal roads in Abia State, the Governor stated that "it is not just the federal people in Abuja that use the road rather our people here in Abia", hence the attention being accorded to those roads by the State Government.
In addition, the present visionary administration introduced the rigid pavement technology into the construction of roads in Abia State. This is on realization of the importance of constructing very virile and durable road networks with grade ‘A’ construction companies such as Setraco, Heartland, Arab contractors etc on different sites. Thus, today in Abia, the emphasis is to construct roads that will outlast this administration.
The State Government is constructing an overhead bridge at Osisioma junction, Aba in God's Own State which is nearing completion which also is adding to the aesthetic values of that environment. It is strongly believed it will be the answer to the reoccurring traffic gridlock being experienced along that route. 
One distinctive feature of the roads constructed by this administration is that it comes with drainage and street lights. The essence of emphasizing on drainage is that flooding in Aba seemed to be intractable hence the need to channel the rainwater appropriately. The Ifeobara basin which also serves as a collation center for all rainwater within Ariaria Market is aimed at making the flooded areas free and dry even in the rainy season. With the 6 sub-pumps laid underground from the pond, the water in the pond is channeled directly to the waterside river banks. The Street lightening will engender night life and stem insecurity.

The economic implication is that such activity has, and is greatly boosting trade and commerce which the city is renowned for, with the attendant attraction of investors.
Abia is a commercial hotspot and there is the need for timely information to prospective investors so as to ease doing business in the state. This is one of the reasons the present administration established the Abia Investment House, to help facilitate business deals within a twinkle of an eye. Abia today is sure footed for investments. 
It is crucial to state that uninterrupted power supply and proper distribution, is indispensable in ensuring stability and friendly industrial cum commercial environment in pursuance of this laudable project. The State Government has entered into partnership with Geometrics and Chinese power firm to generate enough power to the State to advance the made in Aba initiative of the State Government. 
Infrastructure is very critical to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's led administration and much is been done across the three senatorial zones of the state to bring about infrastructural face-lift with its attendant economic benefits.
First, adequate infrastructural facilities in terms of roads and sophisticated edifices attract investors in the State for more cash inflow, all round growth and progress. Secondly, adequate infrastructure will help to create more job opportunities for the teeming Abia citizens since more business developments come alongside infrastructure. Added to the above is the fact that adequate infrastructure presents a leverage and a pedestal for other economic and non economic activities within the State to thrive.
Aptly put, the level of infrastructural development within a given locality determines the extent to which other State governments, non-governmental Organizations and International Organizations are willing to partner the State. This is especially so, because none of these institutions is ready to partner or deal with an entity which has no vision, progress or direction.

Above all, all hands must be on the deck to support the infrastructural revolution in Abia already championed by the current administration. That way, the dividends of democracy will never elude Ndi Abia again as was the case in the past.

Multi-Party Democracy: Osibanjo, Ikpeazu As Role Models

By Uzoukwa Ebere, public affairs analyst.

Through a critical appraisal of the conduct and character of the Vice-President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, and Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu of Abia State, starting from the moment they assumed leadership positions under the current administration, a discerning mind will objectively deduce a model stirringly redefining governance in the Nigerian multi-party democracy.

While Osinbajo had before his vice presidential elevation spent years under the services of Lagos State government, Ikpeazu, similarly parades an enviable profile suggestive of excellence and patriotism as he also served in different capacities under the Government of Abia State.

As university teachers, the duo had added to their towering profile, an excellent academic record in learning, teaching, mentorship, scholarly research and knowledge-transfer. They have also through academic engagements made valuable supplies of manpower to the Nigerian labour market.

While Osinbajo is a Professor of Law at the prestigious University of Lagos, Akoka, Ikpeazu on his side meritoriously disengaged from the academic radar of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) in 2002 as one of the youngest Heads of Department of Biochemistry. Ikpeazu studied and obtained his first and second degrees as well as PhD in Biochemistry, from the University of Maiduguri and University of Calabar respectively.

The inability of our leaders to detach politics from governance has, no doubt, affected democratic growth and retrogressively slowed down development. This was obviously inherited by the present All Progressives Congress (APC)-controlled Federal Government, witnessing a tension-soaked and contentious 2015 general elections that dislodged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the centre. President Muhammadu Buhari is not seen to have patriotically summoned the required courage that could change this nagging but ugly narrative in our fledgling democracy.

This, on the other hand, is absolutely not the story with his second in command in Aso Rock. Osinbajo has, overtime and through a palatable conduct and character, shown classical examples of how leaders with diverse political background could form a government and work towards delivering good governance to the citizenry, without being seduced or influenced by partisanship.

Recall when President Buhari was ferried outside of the country under a medical vacation that kept him away for several months, it took Osinbajo’s non-partisan dexterous exhibitions to douse the already beclouded tension and tribal agitations, heightened by the perceived jingoistic body language and divisive utterances of the president. The vice-president had strategically toured round some states to, among other things, appeal for peace and cohesion; deliver hope-inspiring promises as well as calmed frayed nerves with subtle and disarming messages.

He persuasively engaged virtually all stakeholders in the Niger Delta and oil-producing states to officially reassure them of their inalienable stake, derivations and rights under President Buhari's administration. These patriotic trips of Osinbajo successfully disarmed the militants who dangerously had resumed hostilities in the volatile oil-producing region, and further averted the looming disaster that could have grounded the nation’s oil-driven economy.

With the Social Investment Programme of the Federal Government domiciled in the Office of the Vice-President, Osinbajo officially undertakes the onerous responsibility of engaging the APC, PDP and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governors and their respective states, to ensure direct impact of these people-oriented programmes on the people. This, instinctively, draws the vice-president to a closer circuit wherein he statistically accesses, scales and monitors the preferences and commitment of these governors to their people.

While also periscoping Ikpeazu’s style and approach to governance, near similarities of Osinbajo is optimally established. Despite nagging challenges and systematic obstacles inherited from past administrations, the Obingwa-born university teacher has responsibly shown character, maturity and unbiased disposition in superintending the affairs of Abia since he assumed responsibility as the governor.

Though a PDP governor, Ikpeazu symbolically dismantled all partisan barriers as he carries all stakeholders and leaders along in the act and business of governance of Abia State. He mutually recognises, engages and equitably patronises all Abians, thus giving sense of belonging to all deserving citizens.

That Ikpeazu’s patriotism and non-partisan approach to governance is beginning to change the Abia narrative is just to say the least. The governor has righteously neutralised and subtly disarmed the key opposition parties in the state through a brotherly engagement of some useful actors in the revolutionary process he once initiated, to remodel Abia into an infrastructural hub and theatre of good governance. This approach largely perceived as one of the major reasons for the governor's rising support for 2019 re-election is cutting across party lines in Abia, and has roundly promoted peace, harmony and cohesion amid party politicking.

Besides this common democratic ethos of VP Osinbajo and Governor Ikpeazu, of what benefits are the relationship and partnership to Abia and her citizenry? Is the relationship sustainably offering dividends that may outlive the stay of the duo in office? Is the relationship democratically championed to respond to the yearnings and common aspirations of Abia people?

Answers to the above posers are indisputably in the affirmative. Just recently, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, who came to Abia for projects inspection, admirably eulogised Ikpeazu for comparatively identifying and using Abia's areas of advantage as veritable tools of attracting and wooing the Federal Government in partnership. The minister’s submission was obviously a direct reference to the first-ever campaign launched to promote Aba made goods, which foresightedly aligns with FG’s policy on local content and indigenous manufacturing. This unwavering commitment being shown by Ikpeazu in promoting entrepreneurship skills and general commerce in Aba advantageously became the magic wand that jolted Federal Government’s intervention and provision of basic amenities, including steady power supply to artisans and traders in Ariaria International Market.

Fashola was also categorical by explaining pointedly that it was as a result of Ikpeazu’s intense campaign for Made-in-Aba goods that ultimately necessitated the installation and distribution of electricity in Ariaria, with about 37,000 shops already benefiting from the steady power supply in the market; while the second phase is packaged to cover about 50,000 shops. This is an achievement one could attribute to the non-partisan relationship existing between Ikpeazu, Osinbajo and by extension the APC-led Federal Government, which is redefining governance in Abia.

It is equally gratifying to note that Abia has immensely benefitted from the federal school feeding programme, N-power stipend payable to unemployed graduates, and other direct social and skill acquisition programmes encapsulated under the Social Investment Programmes and coordinated by the Office of the Vice President. According statistics, Ikpeazu, without making noise, has reasonably driven the God’s Own State to adequately benefit, even more than some APC states, from the table of the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

While the FG’s social programmes are somehow politicised in non-APC controlled states, the case of Abia remains outstandingly different. Nothing could have happened if the vice-president had politically channelled the dividends of these programmes to Abia chapter of APC, as a form of patronage from the Federal Government. But, The Redeemed Church pastor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria would not resort to such method, for obvious reasons.

The vice-president, indeed, has a way of separating governance from partisan politics. He believes that the game of politics stops with the election of successful candidates into positions of authority. The next action is strategic collaborations and partnership expected to drive good governance at all levels. Osinbajo didn’t need further tutorials before he created a conveyor belt with the constitutionally established Abia State Government under the PDP and Dr Ikpeazu.

This is even as Ikpeazu was too early to declare, noticeably, a non-partisan approach to governance. He has operated above partisanship in the discharge of his official engagements and services to Abia people, as he continues to create unlimited opportunities for all, regardless of diverse party affiliations. This may have subjectively prompted the love of the vice-president for the governor and the consequential synergy that presently champions good governance in Abia. Indeed, Ikpeazu’s visionary declaration and non-partisan approach to governance was all he needed to attract extra dividend and complimentary support from the APC-controlled Federal Government of Nigeria.