₦airaland Forum

Digitalization of Towing Services: iRescue Emergency Solutions Birthed In Anambra, Partners Ministry of Transport, Others

...Receives Authority Letter

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

In his bid to put in place an organized and efficient towing services across the state, the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo through the Ministry of Transport, has entered into partnership with iRescue Emergency Solutions.

Issuing the operational license to iRescue Emergency Solutions Company in the presence all the major stakeholders in the road and transport business, including the Police, FRSC, VIO, ARTM, OCHA Brigade, Fire Service and operators of towing trucks in the, the Commissioner for Transport, Barr. (Mrs) Patricia Igwebuike stated that Governor Soludo is not relenting in his onerous task of making the state livable, smart and prosperous, adding that the idea of partnering the iRescue Emergency Solutions Company was borne out of his administration's genuine efforts towards making life easier and smooth for Ndi Anambra and as well save them from unnecessary stress and risks.

Commissioner Igwebuike who was represented at the occasion by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Transport, Engr. Michael Obiekwe noted that those who were in the towing business would now be officially recognised and known by the government.

'Your business is now official. Your safety is guaranteed. No one will harrass or stop you from carrying out your legitimate duties. Once you register with the company you are good to go. They'll be contacting you from time to time. We are grateful to our Governor for graciously granting access to iRescue Emergency Solutions Company to come and do business in Anambra State,' he concluded

Speaking the Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O) of iRescue, Mr. Nsikak Joseph Nelson stated that the Commissioner was open to ideas, and while they could have worked with any other state, the Commissioner's commitment to the Governor’s mandate on the digitalization of the state stood out.

'She recognized the value of this technology in benefiting the state and prioritized its adoption. By directing the Ministry of Transport to collaborate with us, she demonstrated a commitment to putting the state’s interests first.

'iRescue Emergency Solutions is a specialised company addressing critical emergency needs through its diverse range of services. It operates with a mission to provide timely, efficient, and reliable solutions in moments of urgency. We have our core aspects

'Core Services: Towing Services: Assisting individuals facing vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or other roadside emergencies by deploying towing trucks equipped to handle a variety of vehicle types.

'Our mission and vision, to be the go-to platform for emergency response in Anambra State, delivering seamless connectivity between citizens and emergency responders. To save lives , enhance safety, and create jobs while leveraging technology to ensure prompt responses to emergencies.

'iRescue employs technology to streamline its operations, such as mobile apps and a centralised dispatch system to improve response times. Services are available around the clock to cater to emergencies at any time.

'The company is committed to creating jobs by employing drivers , paramedics, and support staff locally, fostering economic growth. Works closely with local law enforcement, hospital and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive service delivery,' he concluded.

In an interview, MD/CEO of ARTMA, Engr. Emeka Okonkwo Konti applauded the initiative and assured adequate collaboration, saying that ARTMA had a define core mandate which will not in any way interfere with the operations of iRescue Emergency Solutions Company in the state.

Speaking on ARTMA's readiness for the festivities, Engr. Okonkwo who was accompanied by the General Manager of ARTMA, Mr. Chidi Umezinwa empatically stated that the officers and men of the Agency are more than ready to combat gridlock before during and after the yuletide, even as he assured all those coming back for the Christmas and New Year Celebrations of free flow of traffic across the state.

The event was anchored by the Head, Transport Operations, Mr. Christopher Okeke.

Healthy Living: Nkpor Community Fixes 24th December for Walk 4 Life Exercise, Rallies Sports Enthusiasts, Appeals for Financial, Material Support

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

The entire residents (indigenes and non indigenes) of Nkpor Obododike in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State will on the 24th of December 2024 embarked on Walk4Life Exercise as a way of promoting healthy living, peaceful co-existence and oneness.

Speaking on the significance of the event, the Chairman of Nkpor Committee on Entertainment, Sir Adigwe Samson Zeb, KSJI, noted that it was in line with the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo and as a way of driving President General's agenda of ensuring the wellness of all and sundry.

According to the former Scribe of Nkpor Development Union (NDU), he stated that the Walk would cut across the length and breadth of Nkpor Community and beyond.

'This is the 5th edition.The Walk started in administration of
Chief Sir Innocent Mbagha, KSM, former President General. I served him as the Secretary General of the Union. We are in partnership with Nkpor Health Committee. We are grateful to the incumbent President General, Chief Amadike Godwin Nnamdi for the opportunity given to us to serve again.

Sir Adigwe while speaking on the importance of exercise appealed to public spirited individuals to invest in the exercise by supporting them materially and financially.

'Kindly reach us on these contacts: 08088884653/ 08033906023 for clarification, and for the confirmation of your support. Thank you immensely as you support this noble initiative.

'Assist us with packs of bottled water. Fully equipped first aid box for medical emergencies. Ambulance services for safety and rapid response. Glucose and sweets to provide energy for the participants.

'We equally need your support on the area security. We want to ensure that everyone who will participate in the exercise will not in any way be disturbed. We want to guarantee the safety of all the participants.

UNIZIK Hosts Academic Writing Bootcamp: "Publish with Confidence, Promote with Ease"

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

The One-Day Staff Training Bootcamp on Academic Writing and Presentation, themed “Publish with Confidence, Promote with Ease,” organized by the Faculty of Agriculture at UNIZIK, brought together academics, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for elevating research visibility through effective publishing.

The event, held on December 17, 2024, at the UNIZIK Business School Hall, included practical training for publishing in renowned journals like Scopus and Clarivate and the presentation of partnership awards to organizations such as the Anambra State ICT Agency for their support.

The highlight of the event was a presentation by Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, on “The Role of the Anambra State ICT Agency in Advancing Digital Libraries and Academic Repositories under Soludo’s Solution Administration.”

Agbata shared how the ICT Agency bridges the gap between research and digital infrastructure, supporting academics in publishing and promoting their works globally.

He highlighted key initiatives, including high-speed broadband, cloud-based digital libraries, and partnerships that ensure equitable access to digital tools for researchers.

In his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, represented by Prof. Fredrick Odibo, stressed the importance of confidence in academic writing, encouraging participants to focus on producing impactful, problem-solving work.

Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalist Anambra State Council, Dr. Emeka Odogwu represented by Tochukwu Ifejika, Chairperson of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), urged academics to collaborate with the media for wider dissemination of their work.

In her remarks, Chairperson of the occasion and National Librarian and CEO of the National Library of Nig Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, represented by Dr. Ngozi Osuchukwu, representing spoke on the need for accessible research, promoting open access platforms like Google Scholar and Wikipedia, and advocating for ethical AI use in academic writing.

The event concluded with renewed commitments from stakeholders to work together in creating a thriving academic environment where research is amplified globally.

2024 Week: SWAN Anambra Raises Concern Over Lack of Access to Adequate Sporting Facilities

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Anambra Chapter, has raised serious concern over what the body described as lack of access to adequate and quality sporting facilities in the state.

This was contained in a communique signed by the Chairman, Chimezie Anaso and the Secretary, Uche Ndeke and issued at the end of the 2024 End of Year and Recognition Ceremony of the association in Awka.

The event held on Friday, 13th Dec. 2024, had “Sports Development in Anambra State: The Infrastructure Question” as its theme.

The statement read in part, 'Participants at the events were major stakeholders in the sports sector including representatives of Sports Clubs, Football Academy administrators, Coaches. Nigeria Olympics Committee, represented and the Honourable Commissioner for Information who doubled as Guest of Honour and Chairman of the event.

'The event took an intensive and extensive look at the current of State of sports infrastructure in Anambra and resolved as follows:

'That Anambra State has a very large, energetic, talented and enthusiastic sporting population.

'Participants agreed that this teeming sporting population suffers lack of access to adequate and quality sporting facilities.

'Participants noted with delight the massive reconstruction work going on at the Ekwulobia Township which will no doubt increase the participation rate of youths in the area in sports.

'Participants considered State of affairs at the the Godwin Achebe Stadium Fegge, Chuba Ikpeazu Mini Stadium Onitsha, Otuocha Stadium, Aguleri and what is left in the Awka Township Stadium and concluded that Anambra cannot successfully host a State Sports Festival talkless of national games

'Participants including the Commissioner for Information agreed that Anambra deserves an Olympic stadium which can host not less than 20 sporting events.

'SWAN calls on the Anambra State government to partner the management of various private stadiums in the states including Rojenny Stadium, Oba, NEROS Stadium, Nanka and the Ifeanyi Ubah Stadium, Nnewi as a step towards addressing the problem in the short and medium term.

'SWAN urges the Prof. Soludo government to bequeath the good people of Anambra State, an Olympic Stadium that can host as much as 20 association sports.

'This entails looking for a land big enough to accommodate such a project within the Awka Capital Territory and building it from start to finish.

'This will not only be a legacy project of your administration but a boost to tourism destination drive and economy of Anambra State more so, when there is an airport that can bring in sports administrators, players and athletes from any part of Nigeria into Anambra in less than one hour.

'It will also make Anambra a beautiful bride once again in the commity of Nigerian sports and open up the doors of prosperity to many households,' the statement read.

Insecurity: Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide Anambra Chapter Holds Townhall Meeting, Brainstorms

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

Following the worrisome situation of insecurity in the state the Apex Igbo Socio-Cultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Anambra State Chapter, on Saturday, 14th December 2024 held a townhall meeting cum end of the year get-together in Awka, Anambra State Capital.

Speaking during the event the outgoing Chairman of the Anambra State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Prince Chukwuemeka Udodeme, decried the situation where wealthy southeasterners are afraid to return home during the festive period for fear of being kidnapped.

Udodeme, said that things previously unknown in Igbo land are now happening among the Igbos.

'People are kidnapping their brothers and sisters, keeping them in the bush and demanding ransom. Before now, rich men would return home during Christmas and other occasions, spend their money in the communities, and even pick some youths to train in their businesses. But today, the case is different. Today, we marry off our daughters in cities like Abuja and Lagos without the presence of umuada. Today, we conduct burial ceremonies for our loved ones outside our homes. Ndi Igbo, what is happening in our land? We must come together and battle this monster called kidnapping,'he said.

According to him, all the criminal elements in our communities are known to us, and we should stop protecting and hiding them.

He called on traditional rulers and clergies to take action and stop this ugly development that is consuming everyone in the Southeast.

Also, Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, a House member representing Anaocha Constituency at the Anambra State House of Assembly, blamed the kidnapping in the Southeast on everyone.

According to him, the Ndi Igbo are responsible for the problem in the zone, noting that we now celebrate wealth without a clear source.

'Igbo people make money and do not park money as is being done today. Before now, if you were a rich man, the first question would be, ‘What is he doing? Where did he make his money from?’ But today, a child without a source of income will come home with a big car, and the parents and society will not ask questions. Instead, they will praise him. Nothing falls from heaven, and money does not fall from the sky; you work hard to make money. We know the bad people among us in our various communities. We know the kidnappers. We know those who enjoy illegal money, but instead of condemning them, we hail them as models,'he said.

He stated that everyone must come together to fight kidnapping activities, as Governor Soludo cannot stop it alone.

Presentation of awards to deserving individuals group photographs formed the highpoints of the Occa­sion.

INTERVIEW

One Year In Office: Progress We’ve Made So Far At COOU Exemplifies Adage Which Says That Success Comes When Opportunity Meets Preparedness - Omenugha, Ag. Vice Chancellor


By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, fnipr, is the acting vice chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State. She was appointed into office by Governor Chukwuma Soludo on November 28, 2023, and assumed office on December 5, 2023.

She was on the 5th December 2024 marked her one year in office. Prof. Omenugha who is the second female professor of Mass Communication, formerly commissioner for education in the state, speaks on the journey, in her quest to take the university to greater heights with the invaluable support of the state governor.

Where we started

When I was announced as the acting vice chancellor of this great university by this time last year, we had a clear vision of what to do in order to reposition the university to be in tune with global standards in terms of learning, research and development. I’m also aware of the fact that Mr. Governor reposed a lot of confidence in me and he is waiting to see me deliver; so we hit the ground running immediately as the mandate given by Mr. Governor is an agenda with a deadline. I, therefore, work hard to make the governor proud of his choice.

We began with extensive consultations with the relevant critical internal and external stakeholders, with a view to understanding the intervening issues and challenges and proffer policy options for the continued growth and development of the university. Committed to elevating the standards of university governance, the administration introduced a 2V, Viability and Visibility, policy framework and after consultative meeting with the university community of professors, students, academic and non-teaching staff, a third ‘V,’ Values, was birthed and now the university runs on a 3Vs (Values, Viability and Visibility) agenda.

Can you outline the journey towards achieving the values, viability and visibility agenda so far?

What we hope to achieve here is building more community for our university, being very student-centred and making sure that everyone participates in the things we do. Values are key to the administration and the emphasis has been on zero-tolerance for any academic fraud. My mantra in this direction as the vice chancellor has always been: “Do not exploit my students because, if you do, I will rise and defend them.” We encourage excellence and celebrate products of the university who are making us proud. Like recently, Dr. Johnbosco Egbueri, a lecturer in the Department of Geology and an associate director of our Research Management Office, was celebrated for his exceptional achievement as one of the 2024 World’s Top 2% Scientists, as recognized by Standford University, USA. This prestigious ranking, based on Scopus Data (Elsevier) evaluates scientists’ research impact, citations and productivity. Dr. Egbueri’s consistent excellence has earned him this recognition for the fourth consecutive year (2021 to 2024), placing our university on the global map.

A product of this university who graduated from the Department of Anatomy, Mr. Ifeanyi Raphael Ifedi, recently graduated with first class honours from the prestigious University of West Indies. We just unveiled the broadcast of the television programme titled “ Beyond the Books: The Journey of Excellence,” where we showcase the best minds of COOU. This is a captivating interview series where we uncover the inspiring stories behind the brightest minds of every faculty for the 2023/2024 academic year. From their challenges to their victories, these best graduating students share their secrets to success, their vision for the future and the journey that took them beyond academics. I tell them here that every staff of this university is a chief marketer of the university and we must do so with truth, passion and love.

On Viability, through an intentional approach, our university has become a beehive of activities with faculties and departments struggling to be a better version of themselves. Workshops, seminars, conferences, etc, are driven within the university, the creative spirit in the academic community is unleashed. This has attracted numerous figures to the university, including the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the International Interdisciplinary Consortium Africa Conference (IICA), which we successfully hosted here, and I was also elected the president. It would be recalled too that the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations specifically honoured Chukwumeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University with an “Excellence in Professional Compliance” award during the 60th anniversary of the institute in Abuja in June this year. We are happy that our modest efforts are yielding positive results so far.

We are producing the first master plan and strategic plan since the inception of the university. There was no master Plan as well as a strategic plan, which will soon be a prerequisite for accessing TETFund grants across Nigerian universities. Before TETFund wrote us, we had already created committees to commence these activities and it became like a “Man-who-saw-tomorrow” thing. What it showed was our readiness to identify the key exigencies of the 21st century. Thus, both the university’s master plan and strategic plan will soon be ready because they have been presented to the council and, very soon, they would be unveiled.

How far have you gone in addressing infrastructural deficit, which is a glaring problem in public universities?

The first thing that struck me when I assumed office here as the acting vice chancellor was the infrastructure deficit of the university. There was a serious gap in the state of the infrastructure here, but I said we don’t have to keep lamenting but rather get set to work and brace up for the task ahead to bridge the gap. First was the main entrance gate, which was very much a drawback, as far as our image and brand was concerned. We got down to work and in some months we got a befitting entrance gate as a university remodeled with such great aesthetic pleasure that it now bears the name “Golden Gate.”

Second task was the walkway. This was also designed to make students have real experience of a thriving university and experience maximum comfort. I also said that our university auditorium must change since the place hosts various dignitaries that visit the university and it is where we host almost all the workshops and conferences, among others. With wooden benches tied to the ground and no modern ventilation or communication gadgets, the place needed retouching. Today, by the grace of God, we have a completely furnished up-to-date university auditorium where people converge in a relaxed atmosphere and in comfort to hold their conferences, among others. Also, we’ve been having serious climate change issues whose effect has led to the continuous blowing off of various roofs on the campus here. The administration, therefore, introduced the use of strong corrugated 5.5 gauge roofs to be more resilient to weather conditions and also the introduction of the red roof revolution. We had to insist on that, knowing that good roofing sheets would make the buildings more rugged to resist the harsh weather conditions.

Our administration has attracted TETFund Projects and at the moment, some have described our university today as a massive construction site. Our goodwill has moved good-spirited individuals to donate generously to the University. Worthy of mention is Chief Christopher Ndubisi (Ikenga Umuawulu) who has brought to the university 150 street lights, in addition to completing the ICT Centre building he started, has also commenced a banquet hall to support our nascent administration. Chief Benson Madubuko and a good number of other people have supported the university in their various ways. We are raising the consciousness of our people in embracing COOU as their own.

The alumni community is a critical stakeholder to the growth of any institution. What has been the nature of your relationship with them since assumption of office?

We started with the engagement of critical stakeholders and the alumni of the university had written to say that this is the first time the university administration expressed the willingness to integrate them into the activities of the university. We came in shortly after an election for the national executives and we welcomed them. In fact, the national body assisted us in the beautification of the reception area of the administrative block. We have continued to covert mutual relationships with all the chapters within and in diaspora. When I travelled to University of Lincoln early this year, I met with them in the UK and we had a conversation and I can tell you that they are happy and ready to come home and invest in their university. The national executives are planning a homecoming programme where they intend to lay the foundation for an alumni secretariat in the university and we will give them every support.

We have also approved that the current amount being paid for the alumni clearance be increased to enable them meet with their set goals. We are proud of them because we understand that a good number of them are doing exceedingly well in their chosen careers. For instance, we have the likes of Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka, who is currently the Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Anambra State; immediate past Federal House Member Representing Oyi/Ayamelum Constituency, Barr. Vincent Ofumelu; our alumni president, Dr. Dubem Oguegbu, MD, Gustavo Lounge, Enugu, and a member of the Cubana Group; the popular crypto guru, Mr. Williams Linus (B-Lord), Dr. Chike Mgbeadichie, a Senior Lecturer, Head of Department, Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos; Captain J. A. Inyamgum, who is in the Nigerian Army; Mr. Ifeanyi Matthew, Managing Director, E&M Construction Company, Abuja; Mr. Israel Ezeadiruo, benefactor of Ezeadiruo Foundation; Mr. Abuchi Unachukwu, assistant manager with First Bank Plc, and many more others.

What are the interventions in the area of the environment?

I draw inspiration from what the Governor is doing in the area of environment. Creating a conducive environment for learning and research is key to our administration. That is why, within this one year in office, the environment here has changed to that of tranquility and serenity. We have a solution government in Anambra and we must have a solution university here too. People say that I possess the Midas touch, well, I don’t know about that, but what I know is that I have the fire to perform in my belly.

The horticulture in the university has been developed. Climate action initiatives have taken place in collaboration with many institutions such as NCF, NIMET, First Bank, Heritage Bank, etc. We held the first Climate Action Summit, which attracted many people and organizations. We commenced the Tree Planting Campaign in the university, too. Many dignitaries, such as Francis Cardinal Arinze, former Prefect, Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments, Vatican City, Rome, the wife of the Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, immediate past chairman of International Interdisciplinary Consortium Africa, Prof. Deogracias Jiganyi, and Prof. I.C. Okoye participated. We also have Institutions such as Nigeria Conservative Foundation, whom we signed an MoU with, as well as the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, they promised to build a weather station in the university. There are also First Bank of Nigeria Plc and Heritage Bank Plc. We have established a five-year climate action plan to help us achieve the one million trees target. Already, promising economic trees that could stand the test of time have been planted all over the university, particularly the Vice Chancellor’s Orchard of Unity.

The establishment of the COOU Students Environment Police (COOU-SEP) was to help drive and protect the environment from exploitation and make it the best eco-friendly university in southeastern Nigeria.

What have you been doing in the area of agriculture?

We are determined to sustain the push for a self-sustainable university. That is why this administration revitalized the University Fish Farm by providing stable power and water supply, leading to record-breaking fish sales in recent months. Similarly, Dr. Nonye Soludo’s Healthy Living Garden has generated over N2.5 million in its first year by producing vegetables for the university community. Efforts to foster a sustainable campus economy include introducing order in campus trade and residency. A comprehensive census of petty traders and campus dwellers is underway to establish a more organized framework for living and commerce within the university, ensuring the protection and appropriate use of university property.

This multi-faceted approach reflects the administration’s dedication to building a vibrant, self-reliant, and globally competitive university community. Two staff members of this university, Dr. Uju Muogbo of the Department of Entrepreneurship and Dr. Comfort Nwagbo of the Department of Food Science and Technology, were among the four beneficiaries of Anambra State Government facilitated three-week Agro Taining in China, fully funded. They were in China for a training seminar on cultivation techniques of Edible Fungi for Women in Belt and Road Countries in Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Funzhou City, Fujian Province China. We are currently planning with the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences to set up a mushroom factory. Mushroom is very medicinal and the university has a Centre for Herbal and Traditional Medicine recently established.

What’s going on in the areas of research, linkages and collaborations?

The university under my watch is poised to take research to the highest level with the establishment of Research Management Office (RMO) with scholars drawn from various faculties to lead research. The RMO was inaugurated to oversee, monitor and enhance the university’s research output. Its initiatives include workshops, fostering international collaborations, and advancing the university’s internationalization agenda. Partnerships have already been forged with institutions such as the University of Economics and Innovation in Dublin; Lincoln University in the UK; the University of Kentucky in the USA; and the International Interdisciplinary Consortium, Africa, which held its conference at COOU in November 2024. These collaborations aim to elevate the university’s research profile and global standing.

Recently, the university signed a MoU with the Kentucky State University, USA with far-reaching objectives to strengthen linkages and collaborations. At least a staff and two students of the Faculty of Agriculture will have the opportunity of embarking on a postgraduate programme in Soil Science and in other programmes in the United States of America, fully funded. Our partnership with Kentucky State University goes beyond symbolic gestures because it promises real opportunities for growth through student-staff exchanges and academic collaboration. Additionally, several MoUs have been signed, facilitating linkages and exchange programs.

In the area of visibility, the administration’s remarkable strides over the past 12 months have significantly enhanced COOU’s visibility – setting a new benchmark for a holistic rebranding process. Starting with a comprehensive revamping of the university’s website and portal, we have always emphasized that improving the wniversity’s web-metric ranking is unattainable without robust visibility. This vision materializesed through conscious and intentional internationalization efforts which have seen the university become a member of the European Commission Funding and Tenders Portal (ECFTP) that qualifies it to enter into partnership with programme countries for an EU-funded grants and projects. The rebranding is also manifesting with the increase in the number of inaugural lectures rising from eight, where we met it in December 2023, to number 19 as at this December 2024 and now, our professors, with fired and inspired zeal, have taken up all spaces in 2025 for their inaugural lectures and many others lined up till 2026.

The Public Relations Unit has undergone a revolutionary upgrade, including the establishment of a podcast studio – arguably among the first of its kind in any public institution in Nigeria. This studio is poised to serve as a platform for online classes, addressing the logistical challenges faced by students and lecturers across campuses. Procurement of high-tech Cameras, Studio lights, digital LED and digital TV screens installed at the Administrative Building and the ETF auditorium has improved the capacity of the Unit. All programmes being held in the University are on live transmissions via the University’s social media platforms, which have seen phenomenal growth—from fewer than 10,000 followers in December 2023 to over 31,000 by November 2024, with a projected audience of over 100,000 by next year.

What is your message to the university community ?

The progress we’ve made so far under this administration exemplifies the adage which says that success comes when opportunity meets preparedness. COOU has entered a transformative era and we are indeed optimistic that the legacy of the administration will redefine and re-engineer the University’s narrative in near future. I therefore appeal to the university community to unite to build a greater COOU worthy of the iconic figure it is named after! Together, we can make history as COOU is the now university and of the future. There is no place in the world that education is left for the government alone; we therefore call on every stakeholder-alumni, students, faculty and well-meaning individuals to contribute to the growth of this university. We are laying the groundwork for a new chapter at COOU, one where our students and alumni are central to the story we tell.

Central to our administration is a commitment to student-centricity. COOU will be an institution where students are more than participants, but they are co-creators in the university’s progress and in building our community. Every student will have a rightful place in the university’s life, whether it’s through academic excellence, cultural displays or leadership roles. This is not a future we hope for, it is rather the future we are actively claiming. With students and alumni from various states and countries, we will celebrate this diversity as part of our growing global footprint.

During our major events, the flags of those countries and states will fly proudly, a testament to our reach and our vision for the future. Our story is one of Pride and Dignity. A story we are writing together-of our heritage, of our legacies, and of who we are. It is more than individual accolades-it is about the collective achievements of our university community. We shall consolidate those legacies together.

UNIZIK Lecturer Reportedly Shot Dead In Awka By Car Snatching Syndicate

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

A man identified as Dr Osita Chinedu and a lecturer in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka was reportedly shot dead yesterday's night in Awka, Anambra State Capital by yet-to-be identified car snatching syndicate.

According to report, 'Yes someone was shot dead along that high tension this evening. They are saying that he was a lecturer from unizik, from Nteje. Speculations. Please, Comrades, let's be safe during this Yuletide. If they come for your car, surrender the car, our lives are important.

'Any Comrade close to high tension axis should confirm the news that a Unizik lecturer was shot dead this night.

Reacting on the condition of anonymity, a Staff of UNIZIK said, 'A colleague and fellow sports enthusiast shot dead yesterday's night. This is no longer funny.

,'We and our children are no longer safe in this State. A whole Capital City! the visibly furious lecturer said.

Efforts made to contact the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Anambra State Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga as at the time of filling this report proved abortive.

https://dailypost.ng/2024/12/17/unizik-lecturer-shot-dead-in-awka-by-suspected-car-snatchers/

Idemili North Mayor Extols Chief of Staff To The Governor Of Anambra State On His Birthday Anniversary Celebration


.....Describes Him As A Thoroughbred, Refined Politician, Says He Oozes Out Excellence, Professionalism


By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu


The Solution Chairman of Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Hon. Stanley Nkwoka (Ochendo), has joined all well-meaning Ndi to congratulate the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Ernest Ezeajughi on his birthday anniversary celebration.

In his congratulatory message contained in a statement signed by the chief servant of the most populous and densely populated Council Area in Anambra State, Hon Nkwoka described the celebrant as a thoroughbred and refined politician who has successfully plied his trade Locally and internationally.

'Happy birthday to the Chief of Staff to the Governor! Your exceptional leadership and dedication to public service are truly valued. Wishing you a wonderful day and a year filled with success.

'On your special day, we recognize your tireless efforts in supporting the Governor's office. Your expertise and guidance are invaluable to our state's leadership. Here's to another year of excellence.

'To an outstanding public servant and an incredible leader, happy birthday! May your day be filled with joy, and your year ahead be marked with continued success.

'As Chief of Staff to the Governor, you've made a significant impact on our state. Today, we celebrate you and your remarkable contributions. Happy birthday!.

'On behalf of the good people of Idemili North, I congratulate the British Nigerian politician. Who is the first black Mayor of London Borough of Brent and the current Chief of Staff to the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo.

'As Mayor of Brent, you were involved in various initiatives and projects aimed at improving the lives of Brent residents, including community development, education, and environmental sustainability.


Signed


Hon. Chief Stanley Nkwoka, KSJI (Ochendo Idemili)

Mayor, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State

QRC Awka Chapter Honours Dr Lady Justina Ifeorah With Humanitarian Service Award

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

The Old Girls of Queen Rosary College (QRC), Onitsha, Awka Chapter and the Old Olds of the Christ The King College (CKC), Onitsha, Awka Chapter recently during their End-Of-The-Year Get-together honoured Dr Lady Justina Ifeorah with Humanitarian Service Award in recognition of her exemplary leadership and service to humanity.

Presenting the award to the recipient, the President of CKC Old Boys, Dr Mbachi and QRC Old Girls President Lady Chika Vin-Nwankwo described Dr Ifeorah as a genuine philanthropist and a selfless individual.

Delivering a paper on the Theme & Sub -Theme:
EMPOWERING THE UNSTOPPABLE GIRL,
Dr Chinelo Okeke enjoined all to work towards protecting the girl-child as well as creating a level playing ground for all.

Dr Ifeorah was nicknamed Obata Obie and Obata Ifeadi for numerous contributions towards the development of humanity.

Rendering of the School Anthem and the hilarious Chorus: We stand for QRC..We stand for CKC...We stand for CIC by the QRC Old Girls formed the highpoints of the Occa­sion.

Festivities: Idemili North Council Area Launches Special Health Emergency Response Team

...Priorities Well-Being of Residents


By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu


In a bid to ensure that all residents of Idemili North celebrate the yuletide with a clean bill of health without reservations or regret, the Council on Tuesday, 10th December 2024 launched Special Health Emergency Response Team.

Inaugurating the Special team at the Council's Headquarters, Ogidi, the Mayor of Idemili North, Hon. Stanley Nkwoka (Ochendo Idemili), charged the team led by the Supervisor for Health INLGA, Hon. Dr. Nkem Okeke to go all out and make the Christmas and New Year Celebrations enjoyable and memorable for the residents of the most populous and densely populated Council Area of Anambra State.

The People's Mayor applauded the Supervisor and his team for initiating the process and for their readiness to render humanitarian services to Ndi Idemili North, assuring them that the Council would make available all necessary logistics to ensure that they carry out their duties effectively and efficiently.

'I am very much conversant with healthcare delivery. I am a Microbiologist by training.The importance of administration of first aid to accident victims cannot be overstated. How a victim is managed and carried from the scene of the accident goes a long to determine the person's survival. I have heard your requests, we'll look into all of them. I can assure you all that it will be granted,' he concluded.

Appreciating the Mayor and the deputy Mayor, Hon. Lady Phina Onwuachu (Nmaluluno) who was physically present at the inauguration, the Supervisor for Health INLGA, Hon. (Dr.) Nkem Okeke said they would be everywhere at every point in time to administer first aid and ensure that casualties are reduced to the barest minimum, even as he announced a toll-free numbers would be made available to all residents of Idemili North.

'We want to thank specifically the Chairman and the Deputy Mayor for their thoughtfulness and guidance. We will ensure that we carry out this assignment to the best of our abilities. We will not disappoint Ndi Idemili North. I think, this is first time this type of Special Emergency Health Response Team is being launched at the Local Government level. We are glad that Idemili North under Hon. Stanley Nkwoka's watch is always leading in everything good and noble. We will continue to complement the Chairman's efforts towards making the Council the best among equals,' he said.

Corroborating the Supervisor's stance, the Health Committee Chairman ,Nze Azubuike Anowi (Enyikwonwa Obosi) said they would work assiduously towards achieving the set objectives.

Anambra Police Command Arrests Suspected Gun Dealer

By Mmaduabuchi Onwumelu

Police Operatives from the Anambra State Police Command have arrested one Friday Emenike Alias Ekpo 'M' 42 years from Izzi Local Government Area (LGA) of Ebonyi State, who allegedly lends guns/weapons to criminals for their illegal operations, especially within Awka and its environs.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, Awka,
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, it would be recalled that on 7th December 2024, Police Operatives attached to the Anti-Cultism Squad Enugu Ukwu acting on credible information raided an identified black spot in Umunaga Village, Awka South LGA, arrested one Okechukwu Chinwuko ‘M’ 27 years from Umunaga Village and Ezenwa Chinedu ‘M’ 22 years from Umuneri Village and recovered one Pump action gun, three live cartridges, Cutlass, Criminal Charms, and substances suspected to be hard drugs.

'The Operatives also rescued two female victims who the suspects have allegedly forcibly abused sexually.

'During further interrogations, the suspects confessed that they rent Guns/weapons from one Ekpo. This prompted the Police Operatives to act swiftly and arrested Ekpo.

'The Case will be charged to Court on the conclusion of the investigations, please,' he stated .