₦airaland Forum

The Anambra State Government has congratulated the Obi of Onitsha His Royal Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe (Agbogidi) as he clocks 80.

Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe is the Chairman Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council.

Chairman South-East Traditional Rulers Council

Joint Chairman South-East/South-South Traditional Rulers Council.


Congratulations your Majesty

Chioke, Afrinvest Boss Lauds Obiano on Anambra Airport.

Frontline investment banker and Chief Executive Officer of Afrinvest West Africa Limited, Prince Ike Chioke has applauded the Governor of Anambra State on the successful completion and test-running of Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri, which took place on April 30 this year.

Chioke who wears several hats including that of the Chairman of the Governing Council of Anambra Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA) observed that with the successful test-running of the airport, Governor Obiano has opened a new corridor for investment and economic prosperity of the entire South East region of Nigeria.

Speaking shortly after he had successfully landed with the first Private Jet to land at the airport, Prince Chioke commended Obiano's foresight, astute management of men and resources and his resounding economic vision that has mapped a pathway of prosperity for Ndi Anambra.

According to him, with an International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Anambra has fully stepped into its role as the gateway to the Eastern economy.

"Every kind of investment will come in; hotels, aviation handling equipment and others. Chief Allen Onyema, the CEO of Air Peace is likely to build a hangar for his aircrafts here. There are many other investors that will now come to Anambra," Prince Chioke explained.

On the impact of the airport on domestic and international trade in the state, Chioke further observed that "Anambra State is known as the home of most of Nigeria's international business men and women. The airport will enhance trade with China and other economic powers. The runway is big enough to take cargo planes. There's a lot of catalyzing opportunities coming from this airport."

He also expressed hopes that the airport would open up spaces for other businesses to thrive. Said he! "Schools and universities will pop up here because more people will be moving to this area because of the investment opportunities. It will ripple across Anambra State and the entire region."

Over the years, Prince Chioke has built a reputation as an investment and financial wizard whose expertise has breathed life into most of Nigeria's financial institutions.

However, in recent times, he has shown a keen interest in nurturing the critical interface between the private and public sectors to catalyze growth in Nigeria's economic fundamentals.

Anambra International Cargo And Passenger Airport Is Coming, Anticipate!

By Dr. Uche Nworah

Very soon, just very soon, you will take off from Lagos, Abuja, P.H, Kano, Kaduna, London, New York, Beijing, Paris, Amsterdam etc and land in your fatherland, the land of the rising sun.

As you enjoy these amazing shots by James Eze of the control tower, terminal building, Governor Willie Obiano giving Captain Musa Nuhu, DG of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NACA) and his team a tour of the airport facilities during their inspection visit on Wednesday, 24th March, 2021, and runway of Anambra International Cargo and Passenger airport, as it blends into the Umueri skyline, imagine the economic possibilities.

Those naysayers who wonder whether this is real should believe. It’s as real as night and day.

Those who question the choice of an airport by Governor Willie Obiano over other things the government could have done with the resources should understand that government is a continuum. This government considers this airport project a priority likewise other infrastructural projects it has embarked on, because of the multiplier economic effect. The next government can focus on other areas and projects.

Those who question the idea behind the airport when there is Asaba, Enugu and Owerri airports should understand that there are lots of considerations in passengers and users choosing an airport to patronise such as (1) Proximity from home/office/departure point (2) State of origin effect/emotional and sentimental reasons/patronising your own to grow your state economy (3) Service availability e.g Cargo, hotels, shopping mall etc (4) Flight schedules and routes available etc. (5) Operating airlines (6) Ease of arriving at airport/ Note that traffic on Niger Bridge Onitsha sometimes lasts hours etc

Note also that:

(1) The Anambra airport is not targeting only passengers and cargo users from Onitsha. The catchment is the whole Anambra state and South East states. If the cargo airport takes off, you don’t need to go to NAHCO shed in Lagos and queue up to clear your goods if you are selling them in the South East. Anambra airport is nearer.

(2) Over time, Anambra entrepreneurs have demonstrated appreciable comparative advantage in airline management. Late Chief Ikwuemesi who owned Sosoliso airlines, Chief Allen Onyema, owner of Air Peace, and Dr. Obiora Okonkwo, owner of United Nigeria Airlines are all Ndi Anambra. Anambra -born Chief Chidi Anyaegbu, Owner of Chisco Transport has announced that the group’s Havila Airlines will take off shortly.

They have all indicated that they would make Anambra airport their hub.

If we should apply all these factors, then the Anambra airport beats Asaba and all the other south eastern airports in competitive terms.

Another critical point to note while assessing the viability of the Anambra airport is scalability. There is ample land in Umueri and the surrounding airport communities such as Nteje, Umunya, Aguleri etc for expansion. Remember the saying that ‘Rome was not built in a day’. Even Heathrow airport in London, United Kingdom started with just Terminal one. Over time, it has developed to Terminals 2,3,4 and 5.
Successive governments in Anambra state can expand the airport and add to the pioneering and visionary work started by Governor Willie Obiano, who conceived and built the airport in under 2 years, following the disappointment with the Chinese Investors snd Consortium that the airport was concessioned to originally in 2017 when the project was first flagged off under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

The non-performance of that memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the Chinese Consortium and Anambra state government made Governor Obiano to attack the airport project with renewed vigour and innovative funding model, with Anambra state government fully funding and owning the airport as it is at the moment without incurring any debts. According to the Governor, this was to fulfil the promise he made to Ndi Anambra that he would build them an airport.

Those who are smart are already moving in and thinking of compatible businesses they can set up. Lands around the airport area is selling fast. Trust our people who understand the law of first mover in business and it’s advantages, they are already primed for the eventual take-off of the airport.

What are you waiting for?

@uchenworah.

ADDRESS BY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF ANAMBRA STATE ON THE SECURITY SITUATION IN THE STATE.


I wish to use this moment to update all citizens and residents in Anambra State with the recent happenings in the State and ongoing efforts by Government and security agencies to handle the situation. 


Within the past week or so, we have witnessed what obviously is a planned and targeted attack on Security personnel and facilities in the State by armed hoodlums.


So far, Police Officers and Navy personnel on official duties at strategic checkpoints in various locations in the State were sporadically attacked, killed and their firearms taken away. Also, prison and police personnel conveying an inmate to court were equally attacked and killed.


This morning, a Police outpost was attacked unsuccessfully as joint Police,vigilante and Community efforts repelled the attackers.


Anambra State Government categorically condemns these attacks on our security personnel and is doing everything possible to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.


Since these attacks commenced, I have personally coordinated security Commanders in the State with a joint effort to halt this mayhem and by God's, we will surely succeed. The State security Council has met twice and I summoned another emergency meeting this afternoon hence my address.


Let me emphatically state that any attacks on security personnel in Anambra is a direct attack on the State itself and will be resisted with our greatest might. Those who attack us are obviiously intent on distorting the peace and security we have enjoyed in Anambra State in the past seven years and we will not allow that.

We have received massive Police, Army, Navy and DSS deployment since yesterday and they have joined their teams on ground to enforce security.

 I have therefore directed all security agencies in the State, the Vigilante Services, all task forces and every structure in the State security infrastructure to rise in defence of our dear state.


I call on all youths in Anambra State, all communities, all market task forces and indeed every outfit in this State to duty.


All traditional rulers, PGs, community leaders as well as every stakeholder in Anambra to rise to protect our State.


As your Governor, I hereby raise the security alert in the State and I commit to restoring order and security immediately.


I call on everybody irrespective of affiliations to come together and support Government and security agencies to fight our common enemy. Those who seek to destroy what we have laboured to build must not be tolerated in any manner. I ask the public to help with information and intelligence to the State to nip this situation in the bud.


Going forward, extensive security activities will be obvious and by God's grace we shall overcome. Fitted Tinted glasses on vehicles as well as covered plate numbers will no longer be allowed on all roads within the State. Security agencies will be conducting special and strategic operations aimed at neutralising the emerging threats to our collective safety. 


I therefore ask for the understanding of the public as this goes on and assure you that all law abiding citizens have nothing to worry about.


While I sympathise with the security agencies and families of those killed in these recent attacks, i urge all those involved in ongoing security efforts not to relent. The Police, military and all security agencies and outfits in the State are urged to step out in full boldness to reclaim the public space, dominate the streets, confront criminals when identified and urgently restore order and safety to Anambra State! 




CULTISM AND TOUTING.


Ndi Anambra, also saturating the media waves is a horryifying video of the killing and beheading of an alleged cultist by members of a viral cult group. This is most despicable and a terrible act. 

 I wish to inform Anambra citizens and residents in the State that the Police has arrested three principal suspects and on the heels of their accomplices. They shall all face the full wrath of the law. 

 I have ordered a clampdown on all cultists and their activities. This state shall no longer tolerate the violence that erupts now and then in the name of cultism. Those who try our will in this regard will have themselves to blame! I urge all youths in the State to shun cultism and embrace meaningful lifestyles. 


In the same vein, all kinds of touting in the State in whatever guise especially in Onitsha will no longer be tolerated. Security agencies are hereby directed to arrest anybody hanging on the road with sticks and molesting innocent citizens, drivers etc. The madness must stop. 


KIDNAP AND MURDER OF PG OMOR.


I must also inform the public of the recent kidnap of the President General of Omor Community in Ayamelum local govt area and his murder by the kidnappers.


My heart goes out to the family of the late PG and the Omor community in general.


When the incident occurred, Govt in collaboration with the Police and the community youths made sustained efforts to rescue him alive. Unfortunately, his abductors killed him in the forest and fled.


It took efforts by the Police to recover his body after an extensive search exercise.


Let me assure all Omor people that the Government and security agencies are doing everything to apprehend the kidnappers with a few arrests made already. Massive security deployment will also be strategically made along the Ayamelum axis to stop further incursions by criminals.


I therefore urge you to remain calm as we are handling the situation. 


Finally, let me restate the call for collective efforts by all Anambra people to defend our State against these recent attacks on security personnel and formations as this is the only solution to forestall criminality. 


We cannot allow our security achievements and status as the safest state in Nigeria to be compromised at all.


I urge all Anambra people and residents in the State to come together, support Government and security agencies so that we can fight and win the war.


I assure you all that I am on top of the situation and that we shall very soon surmount this challenge.


Thank you and God bless.

Long live Anambra State,
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

A WORKER - FRIENDLY GOVERNOR

IfeanyiChukwu Afuba

Seven years of the Willie Obiano administration has been defined by best government - labour relations, paving the way for industrial peace and development.

This stands out as an excellent record in government - labour industrial relations even beyond Nigeria. As the philosopher Paul Onyebuchi puts it, a man who wakes up successful had not been asleep. Governor Obiano's good standing with the State workforce did not just happen. It is the triumph of perceived fairness, good faith and mutual respect.

During the campaign for his re-election for a second term as Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Anambra State Chapter, in April 2019, Jerry Nnubia cited the "cordial relationship between the State Government and organised labour" as a principal achievement of his leadership in the past four years.

Nnubia and the delegates who returned him unopposed had good reasons to seek sustenance of the State's industrial peace. Their sense of history balked at a return to the turbulence of the recent past.

For nine months of 2001 to 2002, public service was grounded in the State as workers agitated for payment of arrears of salaries from the Chinwoke Mbadinuju administration. Ten years later, public medical services were shut down for thirteen months, from January 2011 to February 2012 with doctors' strike for implementation of medical services salary scale. The doctors' unrest during the Peter Obi administration ranks as the longest industrial action in the history of the State.

But while maturity and understanding by the workers' leadership has impacted government - labour relations in this era, the personal disposition of Governor Willie Obiano seems to weigh as the underlining factor.

With a reputation for charity preceding him, Obiano served notice of a new deal for the State workforce early in his governorship.

'Workers were the first organised group that the new Governor met with' recalls Harry Udu, Head of Anambra State Service.

'He came here at the Secretariat to meet with them. And without any prompting, without any pressure from anyone, he looked at the salaries of workers and said it shouldn't be this way. He approved and implemented fifteen percent increase in workers' salaries from January 2015.'

Those familiar with Obiano's generosity in private life now turned to their colleagues with vindication. "Didn't I tell you? That's why we counseled that workers give him their votes in the governorship election."

On at least two other occassions, the Governor displayed his sense of equity. It was a scandal for Obiano to learn that the Special Education Centre, Isulo, a school for the blind, was entitled to only fifty thousand naira monthly subvention while the State Fire Service operatives received twenty naira as monthly hazard allowance! What else could be injustice crying out to heaven for redress, he wondered? Ever since the discovery, the Special Education Centre now receives half a million naira monthly support and the fire fighters, twenty thousand naira monthly allowance.

Other packages, including but not limited to provision of buses for commuting of workers and annual Christmas gift had since followed.

But for the State Head of Service and indeed, for many public servants, the spirit of Willie Obiano's regards for the worker was best exemplified in the retention of those curiously recruited by his predecessor.

'I served the former government as Permanent Secretary. Almost 6000 people were recruited by the former Governor, Peter Obi in January 2014 but it was Obiano who paid the new intakes. Obiano could have decided to discard them but he took everyone in and paid.'

Barrister Harry Udu's emphasis on this point is in no way exaggerated. The unwritten code for transitions in Nigerian government and politics is that virtually all employment and contracts by an outgoing administration in its last six months are repudiated by the successor government. But here was Governor Willie Obiano bending backwards to accept not just the 5800 new employees but also the last minute contracts of N127b awarded by the last administration.

Notwithstanding the burden of liabilities inherited by his government, Obiano plodded on with increasing workers' fortunes.

"Dr Jide Onyekwelu, Chairman, Nigeria Medical Association, in Daily Independent of Monday, September 21, credits the Obiano - led Government for raising doctors' salaries to seventy percent from the forty percent paid by the last administration.

Ikenna Jibuike, Chairman, Joint Public Service Negotiating Council on the new national minimum wage, conceded that the "state government had always given attention to workers' welfare."

Head of Service, Harry Udu identifies the State Health Insurance Scheme as constituting another welfare package for workers.

'It has been more than a success story. Workers marvel at the little amount they are asked to pay after treatment as the bill would have been largely written off by the scheme. This has raised the standard of health for the workers. That is another serious welfare package.'

Demonstrations of the resolve to put the State and the people first must have struck the leadership of organised labour, leading to the present amicable relations. It is hoped that this mutual regard between Government and workers endures for the greater interest of Anambra society.

Countdown to Obiano’s 7th Anniversary

Focus on the Awka City Stadium

Day 13

By James Eze

It has always been something of an irony that for all her array of sporting talents, Anambra State does not have a standard sporting facility. From Emmanuel Ifeajuna, Nigeria’s first Commonwealth Gold Medalist to Innocent Egbunike the Olympic Bronze Medalist, Mary Onyali, two times Olympic Bronze Medalist, Francis Obikwelu, Olympic Silver Medalist and Uchenna Emedolu, Olympic Silver Medalist, Anambra has contributed quality athletes that brought honour to Nigeria.

And in football, Anambra’s Emmanuel Okala is Nigeria’s first winner of the African Footballer of the Year award. The state also parades legendary footballers like, Silvanus Okpala, Kenneth Boardman, Aloysius Atuegbu, Keneth Ilodigwe, Arthur Egbuna, Chimezie Nwanaga, Louis Igwillo, Ifeanyi Onyedika, Amaechi Otti, Okwuchukwu Obiora, Charles Okonkwo, Ikechukwu Ofoje, Obinna Nsofor, Mikel Obi, Victor Anichebe as well as the ace Commentator, Ernest Okonkwo.

It is therefore something of a surprise that the state has no stadium of its own. What Anambra has are two privately owned stadiums; Rojenny Sports Stadium and Gabros International Stadium now rechristened Ifeanyi Ubah Stadium. However the two facilities are not located in the state capital, Awka. They are located in Oba and Nnewi respectively. As a fast developing capital city, Awka needs modern facilities for leisure, sports, recreation, conferences, lifestyle and business. Well, Governor Obiano has now built a stadium in Awka.

Located in the heart of the city, a little over six months ago, this glittering stadium in the photographs below was a piece of abandoned land where daring Fulani herders grazed their cattle. But work has reached advanced stages on the stadium which was designed as a compact sporting facility with a covered stand, swanky dressing rooms, an electronic scoreboard, Fifa-standard pitch and Olympic-standard tartan tracks for sprinters. The facility was designed to accommodate future expansion possibilities and still retain a large parking space.

And so, finally, residents of Awka will have access to modern sporting and recreational facilities that will boost their hopes for an improved lifestyle and reduce the pressure on Alex Ekwueme Square which was not conceived as a facility for sports but has been converted to one by expediency.

Once again, Governor Willie Obiano has left an indelible footprint in an area where it matters a lot…Sports.

In the video clip below, Chief Tony Oli, the Chairman of Anambra State Sports Development Commission speaks about the Awka City Stadium.

Countdown to Obiano’s 7th Anniversary.

Focus on Industrialization:

Day 9.

In his inaugural address, Governor Willie Obiano had declared that the time had come to remind ourselves that “a people who astonished the world with their ingenuity and resourcefulness in wartime can lend a hand to remake our world in peace-time.” This statement has turned out to be the ultimate call to arms for many industrialists in Anambra State. It has woken up the entrepreneurial spirit of the people and today, Obiano’s vision has been validated by the number of new businesses springing up across the state.

Governments all over the world are not often rated by how many industries they establish but how well they have enabled the private sector to establish industries. Governor Obiano has done well in this regard by creating an enabling environment for industries to thrive in Anambra State. One of his earliest steps on assumption of office was to hold a ‘Business Roundtable’ with industrialists of Anambra extraction at the Executive Chambers of Anambra State. This gathering had manufacturers, investors, investment bankers, venture capitalists and other categories of entrepreneurs in attendance. It was at this gathering that the Aku luo uno philosophy which emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurs giving roots to their businesses by setting up a presence at home was birthed. Governor Obiano gave the industrialists at the meeting two assurances; that he would clean up Anambra and make it safe for investors and that he would work hard to improve electricity supply in the state. Seven years down the lane, Obiano has kept his promises. Anambra is Nigeria’s safest state. Power supply has improved significantly in the state.

Along this line too, efforts were made to restructure the industrial base of Anambra State. Governor Obiano was intentional when he declared that roads leading to industrial clusters and agricultural settlements would be given priority attention. The need to give a backbone to the industrial landscape eventually led to the establishment of ASBA (Anambra Small Business Agency). This agency has played a big midwifery role in the emergence of industrial clusters in Anambra State. The Shoe Making Cluster in Nkwelle Ezunaka which was funded by this Agency is the crown jewel of Obiano’s industrial drive. The cluster currently exports Made-in-Anambra shoes and other foot wears to several West African countries. The success of the Shoe Making Cluster has led to the setting up of a Clothing and Textile Cluster  in the same location, which the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo will be commissioning any moment soon. The Agency has also been responsible for the sprouting of many Small and Medium Scale industries in the state like Stine Industries who are the brand owners of Anambra Rice, Lifestyle Electronic Shops and several other small businesses.

Indeed, since the creation of Anambra State, no governor has investment so much in electricity supply as Governor Willie Obiano. This is because, Obiano believes that without electricity, his Industrialization policy would be dead on arrival. In this regard, from Oji River in Enugu State, the administration ensured the installation of a 33kv line to supply power to Orumba North and South. It benefitted 31 communities. This particular initiative was so transcendental that an unintended beneficiary, the Isuochi Community in Abia State had to send a delegation to specially thank the governor for giving it a rare access to electricity. In fact, it is on record that the Isuochi community had even made a subtle request to officially become a part of Anambra State.   Another  33kv line was extended to Anambra North Senatorial zone which benefitted many communities too.  And yet another 33kv line was extended from Otuocha to Nkpunando community. It brought electricity to so many communities that had no access to power supply in their entire existence.

The administration has also installed another 33kv line from Awada through Idemmili to Nnewi to improve power supply in 43 communities.  This is a priority line because of the heavy industrial activities in the area it covers.  Another 33kv line has also been installed from Ogborji in Orumba North to Peters University in Aguata. As a further reinforcement,  a total of 400 transformers have been distributed to several communities in Anambra State to strengthen electricity supply in rural and urban areas. Meanwhile the administration has also signed an MOU with the Transmission Company of Nigeria to build 6 Transmitters in Anambra State covering Nnewi, Onitsha, Aguleri, Umuchu and Ogidi/Ogbunike. When fully operational, these transmitters will change the electricity supply situation in Anambra State for good. These efforts are expected to give industrialists and would be manufacturers in Anambra State a big elbowroom to operate from.

It must be noted that manufacturers in Anambra State have also enjoyed a tremendous support from the Obiano administration. For instance, the governor rallied round manufacturers during the 2015 economic recession. He rolled out a comprehensive Economic Stimulus Package which offered a lot of waivers and incentives to manufacturers and SMEs in the state. He did not stop at that; Governor Obaino wrote a letter that ensured the visit of the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo to visit key manufacturers at the Onitsha Industrial Layout. He quickly organized a Townhall Meeting for the Vice President to address the leaders of Anambra Business Community where manufacturers were assured of reasonable palliatives that would save them from being wiped off by recession.

Indeed, governor Obiano has remained a champion of ‘made in Anambra’ goods and services. He ensured that the Government of Anambra State is one of the biggest patrons of  Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Limited, Stine Industries, JOSAN Agro Farms, Coscharis Farms and several other medium-sized players in the agro-industrial sector of the state. This has served as a tonic to many prospective investors and entrepreneurs who now throng Anambra to take advantage of the emerging investment safe haven.

Written By Daniel Scott Ofoneme, SSA to the Governor on Audio-visual and Online Media

Countdown to Obiano’s 7th Anniversary.

Focus on Industrialization:

Day 9.

In his inaugural address, Governor Willie Obiano had declared that the time had come to remind ourselves that “a people who astonished the world with their ingenuity and resourcefulness in wartime can lend a hand to remake our world in peace-time.” This statement has turned out to be the ultimate call to arms for many industrialists in Anambra State. It has woken up the entrepreneurial spirit of the people and today, Obiano’s vision has been validated by the number of new businesses springing up across the state.

Governments all over the world are not often rated by how many industries they establish but how well they have enabled the private sector to establish industries. Governor Obiano has done well in this regard by creating an enabling environment for industries to thrive in Anambra State. One of his earliest steps on assumption of office was to hold a ‘Business Roundtable’ with industrialists of Anambra extraction at the Executive Chambers of Anambra State. This gathering had manufacturers, investors, investment bankers, venture capitalists and other categories of entrepreneurs in attendance. It was at this gathering that the Aku luo uno philosophy which emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurs giving roots to their businesses by setting up a presence at home was birthed. Governor Obiano gave the industrialists at the meeting two assurances; that he would clean up Anambra and make it safe for investors and that he would work hard to improve electricity supply in the state. Seven years down the lane, Obiano has kept his promises. Anambra is Nigeria’s safest state. Power supply has improved significantly in the state.

Along this line too, efforts were made to restructure the industrial base of Anambra State. Governor Obiano was intentional when he declared that roads leading to industrial clusters and agricultural settlements would be given priority attention. The need to give a backbone to the industrial landscape eventually led to the establishment of ASBA (Anambra Small Business Agency). This agency has played a big midwifery role in the emergence of industrial clusters in Anambra State. The Shoe Making Cluster in Nkwelle Ezunaka which was funded by this Agency is the crown jewel of Obiano’s industrial drive. The cluster currently exports Made-in-Anambra shoes and other foot wears to several West African countries. The success of the Shoe Making Cluster has led to the setting up of a Clothing and Textile Cluster  in the same location, which the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo will be commissioning any moment soon. The Agency has also been responsible for the sprouting of many Small and Medium Scale industries in the state like Stine Industries who are the brand owners of Anambra Rice, Lifestyle Electronic Shops and several other small businesses.

Indeed, since the creation of Anambra State, no governor has investment so much in electricity supply as Governor Willie Obiano. This is because, Obiano believes that without electricity, his Industrialization policy would be dead on arrival. In this regard, from Oji River in Enugu State, the administration ensured the installation of a 33kv line to supply power to Orumba North and South. It benefitted 31 communities. This particular initiative was so transcendental that an unintended beneficiary, the Isuochi Community in Abia State had to send a delegation to specially thank the governor for giving it a rare access to electricity. In fact, it is on record that the Isuochi community had even made a subtle request to officially become a part of Anambra State.   Another  33kv line was extended to Anambra North Senatorial zone which benefitted many communities too.  And yet another 33kv line was extended from Otuocha to Nkpunando community. It brought electricity to so many communities that had no access to power supply in their entire existence.

The administration has also installed another 33kv line from Awada through Idemmili to Nnewi to improve power supply in 43 communities.  This is a priority line because of the heavy industrial activities in the area it covers.  Another 33kv line has also been installed from Ogborji in Orumba North to Peters University in Aguata. As a further reinforcement,  a total of 400 transformers have been distributed to several communities in Anambra State to strengthen electricity supply in rural and urban areas. Meanwhile the administration has also signed an MOU with the Transmission Company of Nigeria to build 6 Transmitters in Anambra State covering Nnewi, Onitsha, Aguleri, Umuchu and Ogidi/Ogbunike. When fully operational, these transmitters will change the electricity supply situation in Anambra State for good. These efforts are expected to give industrialists and would be manufacturers in Anambra State a big elbowroom to operate from.

It must be noted that manufacturers in Anambra State have also enjoyed a tremendous support from the Obiano administration. For instance, the governor rallied round manufacturers during the 2015 economic recession. He rolled out a comprehensive Economic Stimulus Package which offered a lot of waivers and incentives to manufacturers and SMEs in the state. He did not stop at that; Governor Obaino wrote a letter that ensured the visit of the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo to visit key manufacturers at the Onitsha Industrial Layout. He quickly organized a Townhall Meeting for the Vice President to address the leaders of Anambra Business Community where manufacturers were assured of reasonable palliatives that would save them from being wiped off by recession.

Indeed, governor Obiano has remained a champion of ‘made in Anambra’ goods and services. He ensured that the Government of Anambra State is one of the biggest patrons of  Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Limited, Stine Industries, JOSAN Agro Farms, Coscharis Farms and several other medium-sized players in the agro-industrial sector of the state. This has served as a tonic to many prospective investors and entrepreneurs who now throng Anambra to take advantage of the emerging investment safe haven.

Written By Daniel Scott Ofoneme, SSA to the Governor on Audio-visual and Online Media

More pictures

Countdown to Obiano’s 7th Anniversary

Focus on the Menace of Gully Erosion in Anambra State.

Day 6

By James Eze.

Terror comes in different shapes. Sometimes, it feels like a horror movie without the forewarning sound effects. Suddenly, the earth opens her huge jaws and swallows everything within her reach. Trees, houses, cars and a frightening chunk of red earth disappear into a yawning void never to be seen again.

That is the almost otherworldly story of the menace of Gully Erosion in Anambra State. Each rainfall strikes fear in the hearts of the affected areas as storm-water roars with watery teeth; biting through the soil and swallowing mouthfuls of earth in its trail. It is a different shape of terror. It is the ecological terror of gully erosion. And for more than half a century, it has been the living nightmare of most Anambra towns.

Today, the cries of affected communities rent the air. Old men and women; distraught by the growing realization that the terror they grew up with has been passed onto their children’s children in their lifetime…heartbroken that their ancestral land with all the memories and grandeur of history has been wrenched off their feeble grip by angry nature; and now, they have nothing to handover to the future. If there’s anything left, it is the tiny pieces of their broken dreams. And memories of farmlands and homesteads buried in an open grave.

The question often asked is, how did this nightmare begin? Researchers claim that the Nanka gully started in 1850. But today, it measures 66 meters deep, 2,900 meters long and 349 meters wide, according to a recent study in the American Journal of Geographic Information System. This is pretty much the story of many gully sites strewn across the state. They first appear as a tiny fissure on the soil; then grow rapidly into immense gorges that can swallow high-rise buildings.

With a landmass of 4,844 square kilometers, Anambra is Nigeria’s smallest state after Lagos. However, while Lagos is expanding into the ocean and claiming new territories with new real estate projects, Anambra is shrinking with over 1000 gully erosion sites scattered across the state. But since he assumed office on March 17, 2014, Governor Willie Obiano has grown grey hairs over what the state must do to arrest the onslaught of gully erosion on its territory. He began with a strident call for Anambra to be declared an “ecologically endangered state” by the Federal Government. It was a bold attempt to draw global attention to the colossal devastation of the Anambra landscape by gully erosion. But it was also a plaintive plea for help. Next, he inaugurated the state chapter of NEWMAP, three months after he assumed office. To further show that saving Anambra from gully erosion was his priority, Governor Obiano commissioned a spanking new Project Management Office for NEWMAP in Awka and promptly paid the counterpart funding for the smooth take off of NEWMAP activities in the state.

Through NEWMAP, Obiano has issued a red card to the menace. So far, NEWMAP has waged a painful war against this ecological terror and recorded impressive results. The once dangerous ravines like St Thomas Aquinas/Nero Plaza, Awka site, the Amachalla Awka site, the New Heritage/Omagba site in Onitsha, the Ekwueme Square/Federal secretariat Complex, Awka site, the Uga Amuma Obosi site, the Ire Obosi site, the Nnewichi site, the Ikenga Ogidi site, the Enugwu-Ukwu site and the Nkpor Flyover site, the Abidi Umoji site, the Ojoto site and the Abagana site have all been stitched back to healthy locations, flourishing with greenery. All these locations were once no go areas before Governor Obiano. NEWMAP is working on 14 more sites across the state.

One of the outstanding success stories of Obiano’s campaign against gully erosion is the 100 Foot Road erosion monster in Nnewi. For several decades, the stretch of land encircling the famous Nkwo Market was a metaphorical evil forest.

Over the years, the narrow gully on the edge of the market had expanded in length and width and started swallowing nearby buildings until it swallowed a whole neighbourhood. The spread of the site struck deep fear in Nnewi residents as people quickly fled from its destructive path. Slowly but steadily, 100Ft Road became a living toothache that sent painful ripples across Nnewi. But today, 100Ft Road has been restored to its old glory. It is the same story with the Ezinifite gully erosion site. It is also the same story with the Nkisi Aroli site in Onitsha where many residents had fled their homes following the onslaught of gully erosion. The pain and misery of losing homes that took years of hard work to build and becoming a tenant elsewhere is unspeakable. But happily, that story belongs to the past now to all the residents of the area.

Indeed, Obiano’s intervention in the relentless struggle of many Anambra communities with gully erosion is nothing short of revolutionary. This is because; in addition to fixing broken environments and shattered lives, there is an on-going campaign to checkmate the threat of gully erosion in the state. Having established that a majority of people across the communities still used firewood for cooking, 1,524 cooking stoves have been distributed to the residents of affected areas. Similarly, Hydro-met Equipment which issues early warning signals about an impending threat of erosion has been distributed to Omor community in Ayamelum Local Government Area of the state.

However, what future historians of Anambra State may never forget is that it was under Governor Willie Obiano that a Special Road Design Committee was established to ensure that every road built in Anambra State is appropriately planned with carefully terminated drainages. This is because, it has been confirmed that most of the gully erosion sites in the state were caused by poor road planning and poorly terminated drainages. With the Special Road Design Committee in place, Governor Obiano has blazed a trail in ensuring that the delicate ecological balance in Anambra State is carefully maintained. Again, to underscore the importance of a sustained campaign against gully erosion in the state, governor Obiano has established the Anambra State Erosion, Watershed and Climate Change Agency, backed by law to focus on the menace in the state. The agency became necessary because NEWMAP is not solely a state-owned outfit but a partnership between affected states, the federal government and the World Bank. In setting up the Anambra State Erosion, Watershed and Climate Change Agency, governor Obiano is emphasizing the imperative of keeping an eye on the environment.

He is also pointing the way for posterity and making a case for a friendlier interface between man and his environment as the society adjusts to accommodate the explosion of sudden urbanization.

Countdown to Obiano's 7th anniversary: Focus on Light Up Anambra Initiative

The importance of the Light- Up Anambra initiative of the Willie Obiano administration in Anambra State could be seen, not only in the beauty of the illuminated skylines of Anambra at dusk. It does not stop with the bright rays that have taken the place of moon-lit nights brightening rural and urban communities in Anambra state. Not in the LEDs that have helped creat a booming night time economy, extending social and business hours to almost a 24-hours economy. The impact of this great initiative lies more in the restoration of confidence in the security architecture of the state, and a reassuring sense of public safety in the hearts of ndi Anambra.

With no less than 1,800km stretch of Anambra roads covered under the Light-Up Anambra initiative, Governor Obiano has strategically supported his administration's campaign against crime with lit environment.

The dark spots on the roads of Anambra which hitherto criminals took advantage of, to rob and maim, have all been illuminated, leaving no hiding place for men of the underworld. This has helped the profile of Anambra state as not just the safest state in Nigeria, but also the most illuminated. The illumination cuts across all the three senatorial zones of the state, from Awka to Onitsha, Nnewi and majority of the 179 communities in the state.

Testimonies abound of the free and unrestricted movement of Ndi Anambra from one end of the state to another, even in the dead of the night, without fear or harassment from criminal elements. Indeed, it has become normal in Anambra state to travel by day or night. The consideration has long shifted from grave concerns of fear and dread to casual issues of convenience and choice.

The rising GDP of Anambra state under Governor Willie Obiano and its current status as published by the National Bureau of Statistics and Budgit as the state with the least unemployment rate and poverty index, can partly be attributed to the thriving night economy occassioned by the extended social and business hours. This is simply a result of brightly lit and secure night time in Anambra, among other development initiatives of the Obiano administration.

What is more, the peaceful ambience and social harmony prevalent in Anambra state, speaks volumes of the transition of the state in the seven years of Governor Obiano, from the dark days of fear and insecurity to a fresh dawn of peace and public safety. Truly, light and darkness have nothing in common.

Written by Ikenna Aniagbaoso

Countdown to Obiano's 7th Anniversary.

Day 1:

Security

Seventeen days to the 7th Anniversary of Governor Willie Obiano, we begin a countdown to the D-Day with a serialization of his achievements.

Considering that Security is at the HEART of Governor Obiano's Economic Blueprint, we begin this series with a look at what he has achieved in securing lives and properties in Anambra State in the past seven years.

It is not an exaggeration to say that no governor in Nigerian history has given as much priority to security as Governor Willie Obiano.

He made history when barely three weeks into his first term in office, he became the first governor to organize an international conference on security; flying in a top Israeli security expert, Moshe Kainen, to headline it. He followed it up with a regional security conference that featured all the five states of the South East including Delta State. He launched Operation Kpochapu 1 to cleanse the state and wash off all vestiges of crime. With Operation Kpochapu 2, he introduced regular aerial surveillance with helicopters and with hi-tech equipment that has a capacity to generate and process photo and video of a crime scene from a long distance and conduct data analytics from different locations onto a common control-room. Operation Kpochapu 2 marked the smooth migration of Anambra’s famous Security Architecture from the usual brick and mortar backbone to a much more sophisticated and digital security super-structure that runs on the latest information and communication technology.

As a result of all these, Anambra under Obiano is widely adjudged Nigeria's safest state. As a result of his security exploits too, the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics reported that for the first time in history, Anambra State attracted $10.2 million in foreign investments in 2020; a year knocked out flat by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Encomiums have trailed Obiano's dramatic re-engineering of the social and economic life of Anambra State from a comatose state to a point where foreign investment has started flowing in.

Following these sterling achievements, the Nigeria Police has honoured Obiano with the award of Nigeria’s Best Governor in Supporting Security Architecture. On the continental level, he was also honoured by Security Watch Africa as the Security Icon in Governance in West and Central Africa.

This is a story worth celebrating!

The Imo Debacle and Obiano’s Power of Turning the other Cheek.

By James Eze

Although we may never admit it but the recent naked dance of power in Imo State has amplified the power of silence of Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State. And when the history of modern Anambra State is finally written, Obiano will be remembered as a kind man…a leader who always turned the other cheek.

Indeed, the more we contemplate the somewhat embarrassing tragicomedy in Owerri, the more we appreciate Obiano’s quiet strength. As governor of one of Nigeria’s most top-heavy states, Obiano has carried the weight of his office with admirable dignity. And this is no exaggeration. There is no other governor in contemporary Nigeria who has shown so much humility and meekness as to tender a public apology to his predecessor for simply doing the job he was elected to do. Nigerian governors don’t say “I am sorry.” Throughout history, power is known as the most potent intoxicant. Rarely do people in power admit their errors; not even in private. But Obiano brushed aside his ego to tender a public apology in full glare of the world. He did that with full awareness of his power as governor and that the instruments of coercion are on his fingertips. And for his humility, he got cold shoulders in return. Did it worry him? No. Obiano is a master in turning the other cheek!

Of course, it is not an overkill to say that no governor since the creation of Anambra State has absorbed unearned insults and ridicule with as much dignity as Willie nwa Obiano. The very man to whom he had publicly apologized has retained a pack of hack writers who draw monthly allowances to run Obiano down on social media, deride his achievements, undermine his public image and cause him grave psychological discomfort. In furtherance of their mission, the unruly team has fabricated cruel death rumours against Obiano’s wife, hung the foul news of an undisclosed terminal illness around his neck, accused him of selling Anambra State without naming the buyer, planted stories with the intent of insinuating mistrust into his marriage, called him names and defamed his character. But not for once did Governor Obiano retaliate. Instead, he ordered his media team not to return fire; observing in a formal address to mark one of his anniversaries that social media criticisms had served as the sharp edges that had kept him firmly focused on achieving his vision of a better Anambra State.

On the other hand, his adversary has never missed an opportunity to take a dig at him. His public lectures, and they are many, are never quite complete without phlegms of sarcasm spat with virulence in Obiano’s direction. His media appearances are laced with snide remarks at him. And yet, not once has Obiano answered back. Nor has he expressed discontent at being constantly heckled. There is power in silence. A menacing kind of power. And Obiano has mastered it!

Meanwhile, across the Amansea River is the neighbouring Enugu where former governor Sullivan Chime had run the man who handed power over to him out of town. Further subterranean moves had crippled all his businesses and left the once bubbly Ebeano Estate a ghost town. And the sky did not fall. It wasn’t until Governor Ugwuanyi came to power that Nnamani was allowed to breathe again. Governors have enormous powers. Every governor chooses how to use his. Sullivan Chime and Hope Uzodinma have shown how to use theirs. They did not turn the other cheek!

Obiano's most recent act of grace happened a few days ago when his adversary once again circulated a false story that he was prevented from leaving the US for undisclosed reasons while the governor was already in Anambra State, holding crucial sessions with his commissioners. He remained unruffled by that childish mischief which was intended to create the false of impression that he had a run in with the law in the US. Again, the power of silence. He slays dragons with silence!

Just last year, a group of royal fathers broke protocol and went to Abuja on an ill-advised and ill-motivated mission to incite the presidency against Obiano. It was one incident which would have made some governors exert the full weight of their executive powers to make a point that nobody should trifle with them. The outcry against them was overwhelming. Ndigbo from every corner of the world condemned the treachery of the royal fathers. Writing with so much anger and disappointment, the feisty columnist, Comfort Obi described the affront as “disrespectful to the traditional institution of the state and Igbo land. Traditional rulers should carry themselves with more dignity than has been exhibited in the instant case. And what they did should be dismissed in one word: Disgraceful!” She further argued that no traditional ruler in the North would have dared what the errant royal fathers attempted in Anambra. “He would be deposed. Ask the former Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. He was deposed on a mere suspicion of dabbling into politics,” she thundered.

But even in the face of such extreme provocation, Obiano’s reaction was measured. Rather than outright dethronement of the royal fathers, he merely announced their suspension for only one year. And less than six months after that, the errant traditional rulers were forgiven and their full honours restored. These are people who had committed a sacrilege. But Obiano merely chided them in a manner that says “go and sin and no more.” Tell me about turning the other cheek one more time.

It needs also to be mentioned that it took the forgiving nature of Willie nwa Obiano to restore erstwhile governor, Chris Ngige to the official memory of Anambra State. Chief Ngige who had risen to power through the backdoor was flushed out through the court and stripped of the halo of all former governors. But Obiano has restored his pensions and his official portrait in the executive chambers of Anambra State. It does not matter that the same Ngige now wakes up every morning with a word of reproach for Obiano.

All things considered, Governor Willie Obiano has shown that leadership is about the people…that power is intoxicating but transient and that any leader who fails to keep an eye on tomorrow is doomed.

This is Obiano’s silent power that has sustained the social balance of Anambra State!

Anambra Guber: Umeh Dismisses Ngige, PDP.

By James Eze

The fireworks may have started early over the coming Anambra State gubernatorial election billed for November 6 this year with the chieftains of contending parties exchanging strong languages on the chances of their parties in the coming contest.

In a direct response to early threats by Senator Chris Ngige, Minister of Labour and leader of the APC in Anambra State that his party was prepared to win Anambra by fair or foul means, former National Chairman of APGA, Senator Chief Vitor Umeh described Ngige as a boastful politician who has never won an election freely in the state.

"What happened in 2017, is supposed to be fresh in the mind of the current Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige whom I read in various newspapers insulting APGA, insulting the government, and writing us off," Sentor Umeh thundered. 

Promising that Senator Ngige would lose his ward in the forthcoming Anambra gubernatorial election, Umeh said "He has boasted repeatedly and on each occasion, we defeated him to stupor. APGA as a party has a structure in every corner in Anambra State. He is boasting that he must take power from APGA and flush us out on November 6. After all his boasts in the previous elections, he has always lost his ward. And on November 6, 2021, he will lose his ward again. Because he has never won in his ward. When he says these things I don't know whether he thinks that we are no longer alive. He is a customer I have had since 2003. So, I don't know why he would know that people like us are still members of APGA and stakeholders of the party and he will call a press conference and speak like somebody who has lost his senses." 

Still wondering whether Minister Ngige had not lost his senses, Senator Umeh went down the memory lane. "In 2003, we defeated him in almost all the polling units in Anambra State and PDP rigged the election and put him in power. And we went to the court and got rid of him. In 2010, he tried it again and we bashed him very badly. So, he has always been losing election to APGA. In 2011, he lost senatorial election to Prof Dora Akunyili. He rigged the election, we went to the tribunal, and with his tricks he frustrated the petition from being heard because he had seen the results of the election and he knew he had lost. And after 180 days, the petition was struck out. There was no judgment delivered. So, he didn't win the election. There's no election in Anambra State that Ngige can say he has won."

Consequently, Senator Umeh advised the Labour Minister thusly, "whenever he wants to talk, he should know that those of us who have been in the trenches with him are still alive. And this year will not be different. His wild comment is enough to earn him a sack. There's nothing that will lend credence to his boast except that he is trying to overheat the polity and lay a foundation for rigging that he is known for. We will not allow that. We shall approach our dear Anambra people with our record of service and our achievements. God willing, he will attend the airport commissioning ceremony at Umueri. And if I see him there, I'll ask him, Hi Dr Ngige, how do you do? What have you to say about this? What are you going to tell Anambra people to follow you with your empty performance?"

The highly revered Sentor who is also a much feared political strategist also took a swipe at the visibly troubled PDP in the state. 

Constrasting the maturity of APGA with the destructive tendencies of the PDP in the state, Senator Umeh observed, "APGA has brought an atmosphere of peace in Anambra State. We may disagree; being human, but we don't disagree to the point of bringing the system down. But there are parties I know that if you allow them, they will burn down the state again. They have that culture of destruction and no matter how people may have meandered around into that platform, the culture of destruction is still there."

Speaking further Umeh said," In APGA, you may be denied something and you will be patient over it in the interest of common good. But in that platform, if you are denied anything, you pick up a gun. You must get it or you shoot down the person who is at the helm of affairs. We don't have that culture in APGA. Just the other day, I saw one PDP aspirant setting up canopy to do a 'walk for health' programme. They came out and asked him, where are you coming from? And they destroyed everything. I was reading the outcry from the aspirant. That's just a sign of what to expect from that party. They don't tolerate differences even among themselves."

Warning opposition parties in the state to watch their utterances and actions in order not to destroy the peaceful atmosphere APGA has entrenched in the state, Senator Umeh said "I have not seen any symptoms of failed government in the administration APGA has run in Anambra State. Everything has gone up. So, what will be the campaign point of somebody who wishes to defeat APGA in the forthcoming election?"

Recalling the party's historic victory in the last gubernatorial election in the state, Umeh observed, "In the second term election of Governor Obiano, they said APGA had died. And we came on board to tell our people what we had done and we gave them a beating in all the 21 local governments."

Speaking on the chances of the party in the coming election, he opined that "APGA has evolved a culture of service to Anambra State and that is what is important. We are going to ensure that APGA will come up with a candidate that will take the baton from governor obiano continue with the upward swing in the development of the state. By the time Obiano is leaving, he will add an international airport to his list of achievements. We will find somebody who may take us to the moon. Who knows?"

Anambra under Obiano: A Silhouette of Greatness.

By James Eze (eziokwubundu@gmail.com)

It is clear as daylight now, that Governor Willie Obiano has not forgotten Winston Churchill’s memorable quote which he deployed in his acceptance speech as the candidate of APGA in the November 2013 election that made him a governor. Inspired by the electrifying atmosphere of the day and egged on by the weight of the moment, Chief Obiano had declared to his fellow party faithful in Churchill’s own words “history will be kind to me for I intend to write it.”

Seven years down the line, Obiano has written a fascinating piece of history for himself and Ndi Anambra. He has changed both the landscape and the mindscape of the state with his compelling vision. He is opening the state up for future growth. He is furiously laying the foundation for Anambra’s imminent rise as a towering economic corridor in Nigeria. And now, in the closing year of his tenure, the outlines of Obiano’s renascent Anambra have emerged from the canvass. And sincerely, this what everyone has waited to see of Anambra State…a place where the true talent of the people is reflected in the civilization they have built.

Now, here are the building bricks of this coming greatness - Seven years of sustained investment in security has created a social capital which will take a while to expend. It took hard work to bring the state to a point where the country’s security establishment unanimously declared Anambra the safest state in Nigeria. Security is a consciousness experienced in two layers. One is physical and the other psychological. On the physical realm is the readiness of the state to bring the full weight of the law down on whoever may wish to take liberties with the law. On the psychological plain is the slow but crucial acceptance by residents and visitors that a particular location is safe enough to live and thrive in and that the law would spring to their protection in the event of a threat. A free society is a precursor for economic development. A society is as free as the degree of freedom it enjoys in public safety. No meaningful and sustainable economic progress can be recorded in a volatile atmosphere, plagued by fear and uncertainty.

Governor Obiano understood this and he made watertight security his foundation for the Anambra of his dream. The results have been impressive. In 2019, the World Bank rated Anambra among the Top-5 Most Improved States in ease of doing business in Nigeria. The state was given a presidential award for this achievement. It must be remembered that this was once a state where no serious entrepreneur would risk a visit only a few years earlier.

As a corollary to Anambra’s impressive showing on the ease of doing business index, foreign investments have been flowing into the state. Again, the National Bureau of Statistics reports that in 2020, Anambra attracted foreign investments worth $10.2 million. It is interesting that to note that not even the COVID-19 pandemic could get in the way of these investments. And of course, we are talking about a state which most people would rather stay away from just a few years ago.

The most distinctive of Obiano’s building bricks of greatnes so far is in the fight against poverty. The National Bureau of Statistics reports that in 2010, the level of poverty in Anambra State stood at 53% on the national average. Interestingly, ten years later, Anambra rates 14.8% on national average indicating a huge drop of 358%. Six out of these ten years were under Obiano’s watch. And we may wish to note that within those six years, Nigeria has experienced two recessions but Anambra was totally insulated from the shock of the first recession through Obiano’s competent handling of the local economy. This is a measure of what Ndi Anambra have done with the confidence inspired by their governor.

Meanwhile, the crowning glory of the Obiano years is the Anambra International Airport, Umueri and the International Conference Center in Awka. These are two audacious legacy projects that have given Anambra a sturdy foot into the future. But only those with a level of discernment can see the emerging outline. Only such people can see that if you are adjudged the safest state in Nigeria for many successive years, the world would want to do business with you. And for you to host the world, you need a world class facility; an International Conference Center. And if you build a 10,000-capacity Conference Center, how will the world access it if you don’t have an airport? How would some of the largest professional bodies like the Nigeria Bar Association, the Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Nigeria Society of Engineers, the Association of Nigerian Authors and many others access the facility if there is no airport? If you have the largest retail market in West Africa, wouldn’t building an airport enhance the potentials of that market by increasing the footfalls in and out of it? Can anyone doubt the economic import of hosting major conferences in Anambra State?

When you connect the items on this canvass with a clear line, what will emerge is a solid outline of a new Anambra State; a new economic hemisphere that will serve as a land of dreams for its dynamic people and other dreamers from across the world. What anyone with a gift of discernment will not miss in this outline is a visionary attempt to finally deploy the essential gravity that will bring Anambra’s famous universe of success back down to the earth of its own roots.

God bless Governor Willie Obiano for all these!

Heroes Golden Club International Celebrates One Year Anniversary


Eze Favour | I-Witness


Members of Heroes Golden Club International yesterday, 12th February, 2021 at Mr. Smith Lounge (okpuzu) Awka, celebrated her One Year Anniversary and Investiture of patrons and patronesses.

In an address by the Club Chairman, Chief Ibeneme Chika, the Club was founded to balance the gender-based and social orientation obtainable in the society. The Club’s aim is not just to promote love and peace amongst members but also to assist members in securing quality contacts, job employment, empowerment opportunities and fruitful friendships.

The Chairman of the event, Hon. Smart Nonso Okafor in his remark, commended the spirit of unity and understanding that existed within the club members. He assured them of his unalloyed support and contributions in the years ahead.

The Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Uche Victor Okafor, who was honoured as one of the patrons of the Club, appreciated the members on their accomplishments and achievements so far and urged them to always aspire for the best and to move the Club forward.

Other Patrons and Patronesses that were recognized and given awards include; Lady Ndidi Mezue (Adadiorama), Hon. Pharm. Nnamdi Okafor (Akajiugo Awka), Hon. Prince Ozo Boniface Okonkwo (Owelle Amansea), Hon. T. N. Akpudo (Ichaka Egbe eji egbu agu), Hon. Emeka Nwosu (Okpuzu Awka) and Chief Anyaso Chinedu.

The Club also used the opportunity to hold a warm reception in honour of one of her BOT Members, Prince Emeka Udodeme (Odegba), who was recently elected the Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Anambra State, as well as Hon. Titus Akpudo who recently elected the National President of ASATU.

The Club also recognized in a special way, the outstanding members, who had in one glorious way or another, contributed immensely to the growth and development of the club. They includ, Chief Nwabufo Nwankwo (Dikeora), Hon. Chief Felix Odimegwu (Anyaorah), Hon. Chief Ogochukwu Ekwueme (Ozo Nwoke na Asaa), Nchekwube Tony Dunga (Ezesinachi), Hon. Chief Bob-Manuel Udokwu (Nze Anagbankili), and a host of other members of the Club.

Highlights of the event were presentation of certificates of membership, music entertainments, and the cutting of anniversary cake of the club.

13.02.2021

Anambra Rolls-out COVID-19 Containment Strategy.

By James Eze

In a bold move to increase the survival chances of COVID-19 patients in the state, the government of Anambra State has rolled out a containment strategy for the pandemic called "Anambra State COVID-19 Chain of Survival (ASCOSS)."

The framework is a six-step management strategy that outlines what the citizens, patients and health workers must do at every stage in the management of the virus to ensure greater chances of survival for everyone.

Speaking on the "Anambra State COVID-19 Chain of Survival" the Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr Vicent Ogochukwu Okpala said, "the concept was developed by my ministry to give our people a fighting chance against the pandemic. We are concerned about increasing the survival chances of COVID-19 patients in Anambra State."

According to him, "We have realized that more and more people will survive the pandemic if there's a deliberate and strategic containment framework that places emphasis on what must be done at any point in time. Everyone has a role to play. For instance, leaders of places of worship, market associations and transport operators must play a significant role in strengthening the Stage-A of the ASCOSS. The goal is for everyone to find an aspect of the chain they can strengthen, since it is said that a chain is as strong as its weakest link. Our survival is  everyone's responsibility."

Throwing more light on how the strategy works, he said "Stage-A lays great emphasis on strict compliance to COVID-19 safety protocols. The protocols remain the most effective armour against the virus. Stage-B, emphasizes early recognition of the symptoms of the virus. It is important that everyone is able to recognize the symptoms of the virus as that is critical to the way they react to it."

Speaking further, Dr Okpala revealed that Stage-C of the framework insists on early identification with the public health system by anyone who detects the symptoms of the virus. According to him, the greatest risk faced by patients is the temptation by some people to treat the condition on their own without registering their complaints at the appropriate medical authorities. 

"Stage-D lays emphasis on early diagnosis and initiation of treatment by health care personnel. It is important that patients who detect symptoms of the virus submit themselves for immediate testing to confirm whether they have the virus or not. More often than not, early diagnosis and immediate commencement of treatment has made all the difference as it gives the patient a chance for survival," Dr Okpala explained.

Speaking further, the deep-thinking commissioner advised that healthcare providers are encouraged to maintain a high index of suspicion with respect to diagnosis of COVID-19 in their patients. 

Said he, "Since there are lots of similarities between the symptoms of COVID-19  and the symptoms of Malaria and Typhoid, the most common fatal error made by our healthcare providers is treating malaria and typhoid in patients without testing for COVID-19. The standard approach in our environment should be once you suspect malaria and typhoid; treat COVID19. We cannot overemphasize the need to initiate treatment based on suspicion before getting your COVID-19 test results. The virus does not wait for your test results."

He further pointed out that Stage-E emphasizes early initiation of contact tracing once a patient is confirmed to have the virus. This he said would narrow down the spread of the pandemic and limit the exposure of people within the circle of influence of the patient.

Stage-F is the final stage of the Survival Chain and it insists that patients who submit themselves for diagnosis should be notified early about the test results and treatment commenced with immediate effect. 

"We have consistently applied the Anambra State COVID-19 Chain of Survival and the results we have generated are very impressive. While we look forward to increasing our levels of efficiency in implementing this strategy, it is my candid belief that our people will have a better chance of surviving COVID-19 if we pay attention to Anambra State COVID-19 Chain of Survival," Dr Okpala further enthused.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Electricity has improved in Anambra state. Testimonies abound of more hours of electric power, resulting to comfortable living, more business hours and increased productivity.

Do you know why?

The Anambra state government under Chief Willie Obiano has revived Rural and Urban electrification so much that communities that never had electricity enjoy it now and even communities in neighbouring states benefit from the massive electrification projects in Anambra state.

Gov Willie Obiano has achieved this through the:

- Extension of 33KVA transmission lines from Oji Power station across 42 communities in Anambra State. Some Communities in Oji River in Enugu State and Umunneochi LGA of Abia state also benefited from this project.

- Building the Awada power station to supply 18 hours power to Ihiala, Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Idemili North, Idemili South and some parts of Aguata LGAs.

- Creation of Nnewi feeder 2 extending electricity to communities around Nnewi

- Installation of no less than 400 transformers in both rural and urban communities

- Partnering with TCN to build six transmission stations in Nnewi, AguIeri, Umuchu, Awka, Ogidi/Ogbunike and Onitsha.

- The stations will be linked by 132kv line to form a power-ring around the state to power industries and commercial hubs.

- This is clearly evidential of the #ObianoEffect on rural and urban electrification in Anambra State.

#lightofthenation

Akpokuedike Daalu.
APGA!

Anambra Guber Watch:

Chris Azubogu is not in the Race.


Fresh from Sabbatical, Obiora Aghadinuno takes a glancing look at Chris Azubogu...


I often laugh when I come across the online stories hawked by the media handlers of Chris Azubogu, one of the Anambra guber aspirants running for nomination in PDP. His handlers are straining under the burden of what is and what should be. The question that continues to nag them is 'can we sell this bad product in its natural appearance or do we dress him up in a borrowed garment even if it will be ill-fitting?' And this an unintended irony. 


For Azubogu is a tacky dresser who is often confused about what to wear. When he decides to wear a suit, he would appear wrapped up in oversize coats which sleeves stretch two meters beyond his fingers. It leaves you wondering whether he raids Oshodi Open Market to stock his wardrobe. And here is the intended irony; Azubogu chooses to wear ill-fitting coats when his fellow aspirants turn out in GQ-styled suits. Dude is timid, joor!


A man who cannot dress himself up cannot dress up Anambra State. And here; the point is both literal and metaphorical.


 Azubogu has to lift himself up from his personal depths first. Right now, he is unsure of himself. He is bashful and tentative. He cuts the image of a typical“nwa boyi,” subdued and whimpering in a corner, neither seen nor heard.


What comes to mind when you look at Azubogu is the character of Nwoye in Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart.’ In what could pass for one of Achebe’s greatest display of economy of words, he had captured the irony of Nwoye’s sonship of Okonkwo as the paradox of “Living fire begets cold, impotent ash.” Azubogu is from Nnewi. It is a bewildering irony how an Nnewi son could come in the mould of this colorless, dour and uninspiring character! 


But that’s not even a minor point when we realize that Azubogu has no gift of words. Always looking marooned, Azubogu lacks conviction even if the task is as simple as introducing himself. How can such a person rule a state like Anambra?


No wonder he is holding on strongly to the coattails of the master. But the master has had his own two terms in office. The master also knows how difficult it is to impose his will on Ndi Anambra. His last effort with OHO ended in shame!


Well...if there’s any truth in Anambra State today, it is that Chris Azubogu stands no chance of taking over from Governor Willie Obiano. You can take that to the bank.


I'll be back shortly. Stay tuned...



Anambra Guber Watch:

Chris Azubogu is not in the Race.


Fresh from Sabbatical, Obiora Aghadinuno takes a glancing look at Chris Azubogu...


I often laugh when I come across the online stories hawked by the media handlers of Chris Azubogu, one of the Anambra guber aspirants running for nomination in PDP. His handlers are straining under the burden of what is and what should be. The question that continues to nag them is 'can we sell this bad product in its natural appearance or do we dress him up in a borrowed garment even if it will be ill-fitting?' And this an unintended irony. 


For Azubogu is a tacky dresser who is often confused about what to wear. When he decides to wear a suit, he would appear wrapped up in oversize coats which sleeves stretch two meters beyond his fingers. It leaves you wondering whether he raids Oshodi Open Market to stock his wardrobe. And here is the intended irony; Azubogu chooses to wear ill-fitting coats when his fellow aspirants turn out in GQ-styled suits. Dude is timid, joor!


A man who cannot dress himself up cannot dress up Anambra State. And here; the point is both literal and metaphorical.


 Azubogu has to lift himself up from his personal depths first. Right now, he is unsure of himself. He is bashful and tentative. He cuts the image of a typical“nwa boyi,” subdued and whimpering in a corner, neither seen nor heard.


What comes to mind when you look at Azubogu is the character of Nwoye in Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart.’ In what could pass for one of Achebe’s greatest display of economy of words, he had captured the irony of Nwoye’s sonship of Okonkwo as the paradox of “Living fire begets cold, impotent ash.” Azubogu is from Nnewi. It is a bewildering irony how an Nnewi son could come in the mould of this colorless, dour and uninspiring character! 


But that’s not even a minor point when we realize that Azubogu has no gift of words. Always looking marooned, Azubogu lacks conviction even if the task is as simple as introducing himself. How can such a person rule a state like Anambra?


No wonder he is holding on strongly to the coattails of the master. But the master has had his own two terms in office. The master also knows how difficult it is to impose his will on Ndi Anambra. His last effort with OHO ended in shame!


Well...if there’s any truth in Anambra State today, it is that Chris Azubogu stands no chance of taking over from Governor Willie Obiano. You can take that to the bank.


I'll be back shortly. Stay tuned...

Mrs. Obiano Mourns Nollywood Actor, Ernest Asuzu

The wife of Governor of Anambra State and founder of Caring Family Enhancement Initiative (CAFE), a charity-based organization, Dr. (Mrs.) Ebelechukwu Obiano (Osodieme) has commiserated with Jennifer, the wife of Ernest Asuzu and entire Asuzu family, over the sudden demise of Nollywood actor and singer late yesterday.
 
Mrs. Obiano, who expressed the condolences on behalf of her family and her NGO, Caring Family Initiative, (CAFÉ), in a special release by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Emeka Ozumba, in Awka after confirming the incident by wife of the deceased, said that she is deeply grieved by the loss of Mr. Ernest Asuzu.
She described the late Nollywood actor and singer as a bubbly, hardworking young man whose progress was momentarily stalled by failing health.
 
In her words: “I am saddened by this news. Every death is a painful experience, but the death of someone dear to us like Ernest, leaves us devastated. I recall the last time I met him in February 2020 at Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka, where we evacuated him for treatment and how he recovered and was in good health after two weeks. 

I also followed up on his progress thereafter and was glad that our effort at rehabilitating him was yielding positive result. “
“There is no doubt that the death of Ernest has created a vacuum in the family and in the Nigerian entertainment sector and has also left an abiding sense of loss among his friends and compatriots. However, as Christians we are consoled that there is an eternity with the Father to which His mercy admits us. Therefore, as we mourn his exit, let us not forget the ideals for which he lived. May his soul rest in peace.” Mrs. Obiano surmised.
 
It would be recalled that in April 2020, Mrs. Obiano intervened through her NGO, CAFÉ at the peak of Asuzu’s health challenges in Lagos and evacuated him to be treated in Awka Anambra State and on recovery returned back to base with his wife. It is quite unfortunate he had to die this soon. May the good Lord accept his soul.

ANAMBRA STATE POLICE COMMAND DIARY:

*POLICE OPERATIVES NAB A MAN FOR ALLEGED MALICIOUS PUBLICATION TO INCITE BREACH OF PUBLIC PEACE IN ANAMBRA STATE*

The Anambra State Police Command wishes to confirm to the general public that, one Mr Philip Emeka Chinwuba 'm' aged 56years of Chinwuba Street,Aguleri in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State was arrested following an investigation the Command is undertaking that required his explanation on the role he allegedly played in the crime.

The suspect had on or about 15/1/2021 originate and
circulated on various social media platforms a false and malicious publication captioned"COVID-19 IN AWKA" and (reproduced hereunder)
in which the suspect claimed that
(i)."Corona virus has hit govt house Awka with more than 30 senior govt officials including Governor Obiano on isolation and that late Igwe Kelly of Igbariam contracted the virus after visiting the governor to thank him for lifting his suspension and died three days to the last ofala celebration"
(ii)."That the virus was brought into govt house by Mrs Maureen Odili from USA who is the wife of Chief of Staff to the governor"
(iii)."That Mr. Primus Odili was having sexual affairs with light skin woman and as such Maureen bleached herself and came to show off her new look...etc"

4. Also circulated on the same premise were series of falsehood and inciting messages which was made for the purpose of causing annoyance,criminal intimidation,enemity,hatred,ill will,or needless anxiety contrary to Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrime(Prohibition Prevention Etc)Act,2015.

The above background is necessary to underscore the resolve of the Police Command to unravel those behind the documents being circulated online as well as the malicious publications.
The allegations contained therein no doubt require proof and the Command intends to get to the root of the matter.

The involvement of the suspect so far is to the extent that circulation of both documents have been traced to him. He therefore has a duty to explain either his direct involvement in authoring both or otherwise.

The Public may kindly note that the laws are clear on the issues raised here and will therefore be applied accordingly.Suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded.

*CSP Haruna Mohammed PPRO* Anambra State Police Command,
For-Commissioner of Police Anambra State Command.

Why Hound Chief Primus Odili?

(Chukwuemeka Echezona)

‘Politics is dubious,’ I hear. The blanket conclusion, though beggaring veracity, tends to describe more the duplicitous schemes of wilful traducers of active political figures than it does the nobles who are wilfully made victims of vile political critiquing.

What offence could Chief Primus Odili have committed other than sticking to the demands of his designation as the Chief of Staff to Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State, Nigeria, who finds him worthy of chiefly driving the dictates of the State Government’s creed of expanding the frontiers of credible and developmental governance?

The rising reprehensible reactions upon the approach of Anambra 2021 gubernatorial election are targeted at persons perceived to have strong political influences capable of torpedoing the ambitions of the impertinent patrons of the unruly vendors. None who is of dubitable electoral value is worth the concerted malign of the undercover dirty jobbers. Little wonder why Chief Odili, who has discharged his duties most creditably as a prime performer in Governor Obiano’s brilliant achievements in Anambra, fits the bill for the brand of scathing comments recently circulated about him and his personal interests.

One does not expect the vituperative attacks to stop; it might just be beginning, given the fact that the political turf in Anambra gets more volatile and predatory as electioneering for gubernatorial poll hits up.

In the ageless wisdom of old, our elders instruct. ‘Onodu Ugo adiro Egbe mma,’ summarises the underlying envy and indignation that often inform a foul-spirited lesser fellow’s perception and evaluation of his progressive superior. Yes, the near impeccable flight of eagle the bird (in altitude and glamour) could be disconcerting to its less endowed cousin, the kite.

This tendency pervades the persistent toils of a faceless number to hang odium on Chief Odili’s resplendent stewardship as Chief of Staff in an administration that has unarguably offered priceless freedom and unprecedented vibrant economic activities to Ndi-Anambra even in the face of economic and political discomfiture in other geopolitical enclaves across the country.

It is most worrisome why few individuals who would rather (for some) Chief Odili panders to their wanton whims for mindless material advantages, or (for some others) he yields to their voracious greed for choice privileges in the political calculus of Governor Obiano’s succession, have blindly opted for malicious defamatory publications and other underhand conspiracies. These freely breed, regrettably, on the grossly permissive social media space.

It is given that every responsibility has a price and a prize too, ordinarily. In sane climes, public service majorly tasks the ingenuity of a diligent public servant in advancing good governance: better life for the greater number of the population in a given geopolitical enclave. Such service seldom fails to appeal to the populace who, irrespective of political affiliations, converge in thankful adoption of the common good consequent upon responsive governance. The price becomes the personal sacrifices the public servant makes in attending to the needs of their office - hardly any more.

In our political clime however, individual idiosyncratic indulgences often create disgruntled elements who deliberately conspire to constitute arrant nuisance in the clog of governance. They come with name-calling and other fringe distractions, sparing neither the government nor the governor and his prime aides. They are sworn to subverting the citizens’ acceptance of the government and its agents.

These fellows congregate across partisan divides, often in misty configurations, to hang odium on a functional system. Conscious of the inanity of their mission and the falsity of their professions, they often resort to opprobrious chants and poor storification of doom. They head to deprive their targets the prized gratification for dedicated service: commendations and encomia from the masses. They mind less the far-reaching sores their selfish acts inflict on society.

Just like their previous mendacious campaigns calumniating the person and personal interests of Chief Primus Odili, the office of the Chief of Staff he occupies, and the person and personal interests of Governor Willie Obiano, as well as the Government of Anambra State under his watch, the most recent Corona virus scare by a faceless ‘Citizens Watch’ imputing that the wife of the Chief of Staff, Mrs. Maureen Odili, infected Government House with Corona virus dropped dead on arrival. The blameless lady who visited home from the US to heartily felicitate with the family home has long gone back as healthy as she landed, and neither Primus, Akpokeudike, Osodieme nor any other in Government House said to be Corona infested is down in health.

The sooner the social malcontents vending these crass inanities realised the futility in malicious smears of perceived political foes the better their chances of reforming and fairly contributing to the growth of society.
Again an Ugo metaphor in ‘Mmili malu Ugo salu Ugo aru,’ as an explanatory seals to my rebuke and my counsel. The waters of the rain rather than unsettle the eagle, further animate its glamour.

Chief Odili remains unscathed in all of these, as he would not be distracted from his principal’s target of finishing well, come March 2022.

(Chukwuemeka Echezona: a public affairs analyst writes from Ajalli)

Why Primus Odili?

(Chima Igwe)

Primus Odili has been under attacks lately. No thanks to few people who have decided to have him on toast, maligning him unceasingly. What is not clear is what the young Chief of Staff to the Governor of Anambra State has done or intends to do to stave off the attack as it appears not to stop anytime soon. It can only be a surprise if it does and a shock if Odili sits on his hands and hopes it will. His detractors appear to be out of humour with him for no obvious reason.

Before we look at possible reasons why the attack on Odili is persistent, it will be important to understand who Primus Odili is. What he stands for and why he was appointed as the chief of staff to the governor ahead of older politicians? What magic he has been able to work since assuming the office.

Odili did not join the government of Chief Willie Obiano as COS. He did as SSA Special Duties where he did not only excel, but showed aptitude for higher responsibility. And if the reward for a job well done is more work, he got his due reward.
And how well has Odili fared as the COS? Without eulogizing him unduly he brought youthful dynamism and promptness to the office. This was not the case before now. He does not dawdle and has no time listening to idle talk. Ordinarily, his office should expose him to routine talks of the kind that make less motivated public officers lose focus. But Odili knows better and seeks out committed people who are willing to add value to the administration he serves.

Something really happened in the Obiano administration that many people were not aware of. There was once a rumble in the House of Assembly few years back. It took prompt intervention of the young COS to arrest the situation. Odili was almost on his way out of town when his attention was called to the unusual development. He rushed down immediately to the Assembly and arrested the situation. While this endeared him to his principal, it pushed him farther away from his detractors.

It does not take long for the petty jealousy to snowball into a monster of defamatory writings. The idea to pull Odili down became a project which must be achieved. Loss of favour by some has become quite obvious and has to be fought. And “nothing”, in the words of Cardinal de Retz, “is so annoying as being the minister of a prince of whom one is not the favourite”.

But the scope of attack became widened the more with the coming of the 2021 governorship election in the state. Odili rightly or wrongly is seen as standing in the way of those who are angling to be deputy governor. And for those involved in this project they are ready to do anything, including wishing Odili and his family dead through Covid-19 disease.
But it appears lost on these people that death wish hardly works and that the person so wished is often last served. The politics of 2021 does not need what is being thrown into the mix already. Anybody can be what they want to become without overly compromising the reputation of anybody or wishing the other person death.

Primus Odili may not have served the interest of every tom, dick and harry well, but he has also not gone out of his way to malign anybody. What those who defame him do not know is that he has acceptance among people, especially the youth. He relates well with the people and makes friends easily. His detractors have time to retrace their steps and engage the people more profitably.
The political turf of Anambra state is big enough to accommodate everybody with less of the shenanigans. There was feeble effort to defend the COS from an unusual quarter, all in attempt to mask the enemy. But nobody is deceived. The level of blackmail by politicians, using various social media handles to destroy others is not a good development.
Everybody should have a life after politics. Everybody should work hard to leave some good legacy in this life that is becoming increasingly short. Let us operate in the realm of politics and let the pandemic be. There should be limit to hate. Let Odili and his family be.

(Chima Igwe,
Awka)

DEVIOUS PLOT TO UNSEAT PRIMUS ODILI

(By Juventus Chukwunweike Okoli)

The Chief of Staff to His Excellency, Chief Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano, the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Primus Ugochukwu Odili, is a man I have known since the early 1990s.

I met Primus at All Hallows' Seminary Onitsha, the Home of the Humble.
I met him a young seminarian aspiring to answer God's call. At such a tender age, he was impeccable and highly promising; exhibiting the love and tenderness of a good, responsible, very sincere, honest, hardworking, dedicated, straightforward and result-oriented fellow.

Little wonder, he was accepted and loved by all who came across him - the rector, the priest formators, auxiliaries, teacher prefects, his classmates and his fellow seminarians.

This acceptance continued until that date in 1999/2000 academic year, about two months to his diaconate ordination and about six months to priesthood, when, purely out of his personal volition, he packed his belongings and left the seminary leaving no word with anyone. This unexpected act touched every member of St Joseph's Senior Seminary, Ikot-Ekpene, where he was undergoing his priestly formation and training as at that time. The Onitsha Archdiocese, his home diocese, was not spared the untold surprise.

From the foregoing narrative, it becomes clear that Primus was never expelled from the seminary as speculated in one of the sponsored viral articles on social media some months back. His classmates in the seminary with Very Rev Fr Barr (Prof) Kenneth Oraegbunam, lecturer of law at Unizik; Very Rev Fr Barr (Dr) Maurice Okey Izunwa, lecturer of same law faculty and University; Very Rev Fr Dr Felix Okey Akamonye, lecturer at SS John and Paul Major Seminary, Awka; Very Rev Fr (Pharm.) Justin Olisaemeka, US based; Very Rev Fr Dr Phillip Ibeneme, the Financial Administrator of Onitsha Archdiocese; Very Rev Fr Cosmas Nzeabalu, US Military; Very Rev Fr Edmund Ani, US Based; as representatives are there for inquiries by whosoever pleases.

The above said, let me quickly say that those who are plotting the downfall of the Chief of Staff are simply kicking their legs on an impregnable rock.

Primus is a pure child of destiny!

He is placed where he is by God alone. His track records and achievements in life have clearly marked him out as the favoured of God.

His assumption of the office of the Chief of Staff was purely Divine. He never struggled for it, he did not malign anybody to arrive there; rather, like the biblical Matthias, the lot fell on him.

Again, his coming to the Chief of Staff's office brought positive and result-oriented vision, yielding youthful encounters which have largely aided the governor to achieve the giant strides his administration has made in Anambra State.

Primus has greatly used his good offices to attract a great number of youths back to Anambra State, especially those in diaspora who have come to invest in the state. I know a good number of our people in Europe, America and Asia continents who are currently trying to erect some businesses in Anambra, while some of them are already done with theirs, due to the youthful prompting of the COS.

His leadership style is second to none, and this is richly seen in the manner he has successfully brought all the Commissioners, the MD/CEO of government agencies and all other political appointees under the Great Team WhasApp platform, and through this effort, made the Governor's administration become very highly informative, participatory and productive.

For sure, we cannot talk of Obiano's great achievements on security, education, agriculture, building of the Anambra International Airport, International Conference Center, road construction and maintenance to mention but a few without factoring in Primus Odili's input.

The COS has been able to show his political correctness and power or better, influence in all his duties. This political mettle has brought him face to face with known and unknown enemies, some of who even conspire to undermine him for their perceived advantage. They live in a fool's paradise forgetting the Igbo wise saying, "Chi onye adighi n'izu, onwu anaghi egbu ya".

The EFCC was once brought in to further the persons' devious machinations against the COS. In this too, God saved the innocent young man. In another development sometime ago, a conceived plot to lock the COS's office was discovered. That plot also failed, as the lock and key meant to be used in locking his office were soon dropped or broken in his favour.

Not resting, they sponsored the $1.8m American House purchase article, which also hit the rock. Today, they have sponsored another dastardly article accusing Maureen Odili, the good wife of Primus, of bringing in Corona virus to the Government House Awka in December, 2020, where they claimed that 30 senior government staff have been infected. Yet, no single name was mentioned from the said 30 senior staff. Simply giving a dog a bad name in order to kill it. What a dirty way of playing politics!

Politics must not be do or die. We must not endulge in character assassination of our own colleagues because we want to climb the political ladder. One's family must also not be slandered for our selfish political gains.

Those who aspire to political leadership should embrace honesty and sincerity in pursuit of their goals.They should not incriminate others and unnecessarily heat up the polity for whatever political gains they want.
Let those aspiring to leadership positions come up neat and clean to political offices.

No attempt to devalue Chief Primus Ugochukwu Odili and slyly succeed him today as the Chief of Staff, or even to push him away from future participation in politics and from the corridors of power will see the light of day.

Primus' Chi cuts his success ways and Chukwuokike endorses his increasing flight to greater heights. In truth Chi na-eme eze; so it is with Chief Primus Odili.

ANAMBRA STATE GUBERNATORIAL ELECTION: PRIMUS ODILI, A SACRIFICIAL LAMB

(By Juventus Chukwunweike Okoli)

It is now evidently clear that some people are consistently trying to malign the person of Hon (Chief) Primus Odili, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Anambra State and by extension his wife, Maureen. What really worries me is that the gentleman in question has not done any bad to any person or persons since his assumption of the exalted office of the Chief of Staff to the governor of Anambra state.
To the contrary, rather than sounding autocratic and lording it over anyone, he has been a jolly good fellow by being a great help and sound pillar to the government and people of Anambra. He has worked so hard to make Anambra work by standing behind our performing Gov Obiano.

Having laid the above foundation, I am pained to the marrow seeing a viral post going round the social media, accusing Maureen, the wife of the Chief of Staff as bringing Corona virus into Government House, Awka.

I wonder what the originator of the vicious rumour set out to achieve. Why the COS? And why his wife?

It is clear that whoever is sponsoring that cheap blackmail must be close to the Chief of Staff and a strong member of his political circle who has an eye for a particular office come November, 2021.

It is a fact that some very close people in government think that Chief Odili will likely vie for the office of the Deputy Governor come 2021 gubernatorial election in the state. Because of this, they contrive all sorts of lies against his person in order to discountenance the young man who has been placed wherever he is today by destiny.

It is a known fact that Corona 19 index case in Anambra was registered last year, 2020. It is also true that the State Government, in line with regulations guiding against the spread of Covid 19, locked down activities in the State for weeks just to contain its spread. Schools, markets, Churches and other public places were closed to public use in order to stem the spread of the virus.

I am also sure that ever before all these precautions were ordered, Maureen, the beautiful wife of Chief Primus Odili, was not in Anambra State.

His Excellency, Gov Obiano, repeatedly gave State wide broadcasts where he called on ndi Anambra to observe all Covid 19 protocols in their homes and environments. Even the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Hon Dr. Vincent Okpala, repeatedly followed the Governor's steps in this direction. It is also on record that Anambra closed all her boundaries in 2020.

I was privileged to be among the political aides of the Governor drafted to the borders to monitor activities.
As at that time, it was repeatedly said that Awka South LGA was adjudged the most Covid 19 infested council in the State.

Again, Anambra stopped burials, marriage rites, opening of new houses and all other social functions in the State due to Covid 19 last year.

Also, as at December last year, we started getting hint of another strain of the disease. In the early days of that festive month we had cases of people who died due to Covid 19 here in the state. Chief Odili's wife who flew into the country on the 30th of December, 2020, was not located in that mix. How then would Mrs. Odili who left Nigeria healthy on the 5th of January, 2021, be accused of infecting anybody with the disease.

Mrs Odili came home solely for the chieftaincy title-taking of her husband. She left Nigeria shortly after the ceremony. She came in good health and went back with no health issues whatsoever.

Now the foolery: Igwe Kelly of Igbariam who died of prostrate cancer complications was maliciously said to have contracted Covid 19 from Mrs. Odili who had no remotest encounter with the late Igwe.

Why is Primus who had close relationship with his wife not infected? Why are the Governor and his wife not down with the disease? And so for all the other relations and security personnel at home and at the Governor's lodge? Why are these ones healthy and about?

What has the complexion of the Chief of Staff's wife got to do with Anambra State and the people?

What a stupid article! See how feeble minded the writers of the article are.

There should be a limit to blackmail!

What sense would anyone make of a writeup which claims that over 30 senior members of Government are down with Covid 19 but falls shy of providing their identities. Balderdash!

Could the writers and the organizers cum sponsors of the write up tell ndi Anambra and the global world who the other 30 are and where they are currently?

Till this is done, the article will be treated as a targeted attack which must have risen from sheer jealousy and envy. It was evidently politically motivated and ill sponsored.

I am sure that Chief Primus Ugochukwu Odili, the Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Anambra State is not perturbed by attempts such as this to distract him from his focus in assisting Gov Obiano finish well.

Covid-19 Scare at the Government House, Detractors of Primus Odili on the prowl yet Again.



It is said that he who the gods want to kill, they first make mad. Madness,that's exactly the word I can conjure at the moment to describe the actions of the detractors of Chief Primus Odili ( Okosisi Aguleri) and his family. Otherwise how can a viral disease that paused the world, including Anambra State suddenly turn a breaking news.

Severally, opposition elements fuelled by interests in the 2021 Anambra Guber elections have sent their E-thugs on the prowl hunting and shooting anything about the Willie Obiano led administration. Like sinking men, they keep clutching at anything and on anyone. From the Governor to his wife, to the Deputy Governor, to the Chief of Staff and Commissioners. For them, nothing good can come out of the current administration because they have an eye on Agu-Awka.


It is riding on this same slippery pedestal that not long after the lies against Chief Primus Odili was punctured with truths, facts and figures that his detractors have ones again begun to tell infantile tales of Covid-19 Scare, trying in a poorly scripted article being circulated on the social media.

The infantile piece exposed the author's personal hatred for the Chief of Staff and his family and sold the author out as a bitter soul looking to bring down another man out of envy or outright wickedness. All attempts to smear Okosisi Aguleri have always failed and this piece already joined the queue of failed attempts to ridicule the office of the Chief of Staff to the Governor and his family.

Covid-19 is real and
the whole world is wary about it. The failed attempt in linking it to a particular person or family is baseless and bears just the imprint of bitterness from the author who must be reminded that cowards have no place in the gathering of men and like he who the gods want to kill,has gone mad.

Special Remarks by the Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Chief Willie Obiano at a Ceremony Marking the Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Awka on January 15, 2021.

Protocol

Fellow compatriots, on January 15 every year, we come together to commemorate the immense sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It is a very special day. It is day made special by its solemnity and the power of remembrance.

Fellow compatriots, life itself is an amazing flow of moods and moments stitched together in memory. Without memory, life becomes empty of meaning and substance.

From generation to generation, memory has served mankind so well. It has guided us through some of history’s brightest and darkest periods. It has led us safely away from avoidable errors. And it has helped us to take ownership of our tragedies and triumphs.

It is often said that a nation’s greatness is measured by the strength of its Armed Forces. Half of Nigeria’s national memory is embedded in the Nigerian Armed Forces. Our Armed Forces carry the weight of Nigeria’s struggle for greatness, our quest for unity, as well as our big brother role in African. No national institution has worked harder for Nigeria’s unity and stability than our Armed Forces.

Therefore, as we commemorate the great sacrifices of our Armed Forces today, we celebrate the power and glory of Nigeria. We celebrate the bravery of our officers and men who gave lives and limbs for the good of Nigeria. We pay homage to great men and women whose gallantry ensured that the numerous fires that we had willfully ignited with our own hands did not consume us.

It is on this note that I invite all the Service Commanders here present and my colleagues in the service of Anambra State, to join me in the laying of wreaths in honour of our fallen heroes.

Thank you.

God bless Anambra State
God bless Nigeria

Willie Obiano

Coronavirus scare in Govt House: who's envious and jealous of Primus and wife?

(By Juventus Chukwunweike Okoli)

This is certainly the season of trash and cheap blackmail against perceived opponents, with the majority of them not worthy of any response.

However, the recent viral post that there has been a coronavirus scare in government house is not only infantile but the height of mischief, obviously driven by envy and jealousy.

For the records, there's no such scare in government house; least of all, its being triggered by the wife of the COS. The Governor is 100% fine and going about his administrative duties deligently while observing the world recommended wearing of face mask, sanitizing and social distancing The post is therefore part of the evil machinations of those, who, for reasons best known to them, are envious and jealous of the young man, Primus, his track records and his wife, whose only offense is that she visits her husband from time to time from America.
Primus and wife are hale and hearty. The wife is safely back to the United States and doing her work, while our governor is safely doing his work here.

Primus is a self made man who had had a very successful stint abroad long before accepting to come and serve his people here.
He has been successfully and meritoriously doing his job to the satisfaction of his principal, the governor. It has always been the case and will remain the case.
Primus is a jolly good fellow who focuses on his job and doesn't look for anyone's trouble.
It is therefore strange that he's become the target of those looking for cheap publicity and who are envious of his achievements.
The field is open and wide enough for anyone to play his game without overlapping into another's part of the pitch.

The recent viral post, though infantile, is nevertheless in bad faith; thus this response.
The people are wiser and know when something is done to spite others. This latest kite, as others before it, will simply not fly.

Rather than spite those who worked hard and legitimately to attain their current positions, those behind such attacks should equally work hard to succeed in life. You don't grow by pulling others down.