₦airaland Forum

OGBUEFI SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU HOSTS THE NNEWI NORTH LGA MEMBERS OF HIS VARIOUS FOUNDATIONS AND GROUPS.

...as he kick starts the tours of all his foundations and groups in all the 21 Local Government Areas in Anambra State.

By Bona Ogbonna

Ogbuefi Sir Melie Onyejepu, on Sunday, the 31st day of January, 2021, kick started the tours of all his foundations and groups in all the LGA in the State.
In his welcome address, Ogbuefi Melie thanked them for all the sacrifices and commitment they have made so far, and urged them not to relent because, according to him, they're going to take the journey to the next level this time around.
Sir Onyejepu enumerated some of the charity activities and humanitarian works the various groups have done, and are still doing.
Speaking further, he informed them that the reason why he invited only the LGA Exco members of each group, and five (5) each per group from the wards, was because of the rampaging Covid-19 pandemic as to ensure social distancing. He then assured them that the second level of the tour will be for those not present in this first one.
The highlight of the event was the distribution of various items and cash to the over 50 indigents people randomly selected from the various wards in Nnewi North LGA. According to Ogbuefi Melie, the gesture is aimed at supporting the various indigent families during this second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Every member of the various groups and foundations went home with a bag of Rice, courtsey of Ogbuefi Sir Melie Onyejepu.
Among those present at the event are,
Hon Chike Agwuncha, the Nnewi North LGA Apga Chairman.
Hon Prince Bobby Onwuosa, CEO B ROBINSON,
Chief Otitodilinna Azubike,
The PG Nnewichi Community, Comr. CY Okolo,
Chief Uchenna Umeaneto, CEO UCHESON MARY NIG LTD,
Hon Nchedo Oboh,
Chief Barr. Eloka Osigwe,
Hon Eloka Ubajekwe,
Chief Peter Ekechukwu
Hon. Dominic Enumah,
Hon. Okwy Onyeso, Apga Nnewichi Ward 2 Chairman,
Chief Ifeanyi Okeke, CEO CYBER WORLD,
Hon Arinze Nwosu
Hon. Andy Nnodu,
Hon. Francis Onebune, PG Abubor Nnewichi,
Hon Mrs Oge Dan,
Chief Okedo, former PG, Abubor Nnewichi,
Chief Hon Emma Nsoedo, former Commissioner for sports and youths development, Anambra State and host of others.

A Special Broadcast made by the Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Chief Willie Obiano on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 on the Second Wave of the Covid-19 Pandemic.

By Bona Ogbonna


Protocol

Ndi Anambra ekenem unu.
Once again, it has become necessary to address you on the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic that is currently sweeping across the world.

Ndi Anambra, this threat is not only real but even more deadly. It is more deadly because after struggling with the pandemic for nine months, we have dropped our level of vigilance and returned to our normal lives. But the virus has not gone away. On the contrary, it has come back with renewed viciousness. And it is claiming many lives because our people are not complying with the Covid-19 protocols.

Our Response to Phase 1 of Covid-19

Ndi Anambra, our index case of Covid-19 was reported on April 9, 2020. We were fully prepared to deal with that emergency. We had erected some of the best Protective Care Centers in Nigeria and our healthcare workers were sufficiently prepared to handle the challenge. We managed the pandemic so well that in November last year, Anambra was rated as one of the states with the lowest number of positive results in Nigeria. As at December 7, 2020, we had conducted 90,000 tests and only 287 were confirmed positive. As at that date too, Anambra had no new cases of Covid-19. We had no patients in our Protective Care Centers and none on home treatment. Anambra was beginning to breathe freely again. We were all enjoying the fruits of our collective efforts – the leaders of the church, traditional rulers, market leaders, school administrators and the general public had made great efforts to obey the standard Covid-19 protocols. We were doing just fine until the second wave of the pandemic crept in.

The Second Wave of Covid-19:

Ndi Anambra, this second wave of Covid-19 did not take us by surprise. We have been monitoring global trends on the pandemic and we saw it coming. We anticipated that the second wave would hit us hard because of our well-known culture of mass return during the Christmas and New Year season. So, we made efforts to prepare our people to mitigate the impending challenge. We held wide consultations and town-hall meetings with the Igwes, the religious leaders, civil society organizations, leaders of market task force, transport operators and leaders of various community groups and associations. During these meetings we emphasized the need to revive all the structures that helped us survive the first wave of the pandemic.

Sadly, it appears that our warnings fell on deaf ears. Our people allowed themselves to be carried away by the joys of the Yuletide Season and failed to maintain the Covid-19 protocols. Today, we are faced with a clear and present danger. Between December 7, 2020 and January 11, 2021, we have recorded 110 new cases of Covid-19 in Anambra State. This is not good at all. Ndi Anambra, we must do everything within our power to halt the spread. That is why we have revved up our testing capacity and brought the total number of tests done to 13, 412 tests so far.

Surviving the Resurgence:

Ndi Anambra, my administration has taken a string of hard decisions to stamp out the renewed spread of this pandemic before it gains a serious advantage over us.

1. All government offices must observe the standard Covid-19 protocols – washing of hands at the entrance, wearing of facemasks, regular use of hand sanitizers and strict observance of social distancing. Nobody will be allowed into any government premises without properly wearing a face mask.

2. No one should step outside their homes without wearing a facemask.

3. The ban on nightclubs is still firmly in place. Hotels are directed to ensure strict compliance to Covid-19 protocols.

4. There should not be more than 50 people in any public gathering.

5. The Covid-19 Action Teams in all our 61 markets must ensure full compliance to the standard Covid-19 protocols. They must set up a hand-washing point at the entrance to each market, take the temperature of visitors to the markets and ensure that both traders and their customers are wearing their facemasks properly. All markets in Anambra State are given one week to set-up the necessary safety standards and ensure proper compliance. Any market found violating the standards after one week shall be quickly shut down.

6. Transport operators are advised to revert to all the practices that helped us during the first wave of the pandemic. They must ensure social distancing inside the vehicles and maintain a passenger manifest.

7. Schools are advised to revive the Covid-19 structure and practices that helped protect our children during the first wave of the pandemic. Schools in Anambra shall not re-open on January 18, 2021 as earlier scheduled. Rather, schools will re-open after two weeks from today to enable the principals and teachers prepare for the return of our children We commend school proprietors and administrators in the state for their careful handling of the first wave of the pandemic. However, we expect even more from them this time.

8. Churches and other religious organizations are advised to set up Action Teams and go back to the practices that helped us in the first phase of the pandemic.

9. We shall align with any policy on a possible nationwide curfew by the Federal Government to ensure effective compliance.

10. Our test centers are active and ready to handle cases with impressive turnaround time. We hold the record of the shortest turnaround time in the country today. We have cascaded our sample collection to all the 21 local government areas in the state.

11. For the sake of emphasis, nobody should go to any market, public places, church, schools, enter any transport, attend functions as stated above without properly wearing of facemasks.

12. Finally, the investment we made in setting up an Oxygen Production plant at COOU Teaching Hospital, Amaku has started to pay off. When we made that investment, we had no idea that sooner than later, Oxygen would become such a priceless commodity. Today, I am delighted to announce a donation of 450 Cubic meters of oxygen to select hospitals in the state to help us in the fight against the pandemic. The modalities of distributing the commodities shall be worked out and announced by the Ministry of Health.

Our Assurance:

Ndi Anambra, we have been here before. We shall overcome it a second time. But we must work together this time. Everyone must play their own part well for us to survive. As a government, our key strategy is testing, treating and tracing Covid-19 cases in line with the guidelines given by the World Health Organization and the Nigerian Disease Control Center.

Ndi Anambra, we are firmly on top of this situation. Please don’t be afraid. We shall handle this resurgence the way we handled the first wave. We have managed so many cases successfully and we shall do much more. Our Protective Care Centers are ever ready to deliver great results. Our Covid-19 Home Management Task Force has managed more than 95% of cases successfully in their various homes. We shall continue to do our best to save lives and preserve our people until we take delivery of the Covid-19 Vaccine.

Ndi Anambra, I will not end this broadcast without some kind words for our healthcare workers who have continued to sacrifice their personal convenience for our collective safety. They deserve our prayers and commendation as they buckle up to stem the rise of the pandemic this second time around.

Umunnem, let’s increase our chances of surviving this scourge by obeying the safety standards of Covid-19.

God bless Anambra State

God bless Nigeria

Nwa Chinedu Eze Omeogo deje dalu o

Nwa Chinedu Eze Omeogo

Eze Omeogo

Nwa Chinedu

Eze omeogo

Nwa Chinedu Eze Omeogo

GOV. OBIANO'S AIDE, BARR. CHINEDU HANDS OVER A BUNGALOW HE BUILT FOR A WIDOW IN NNEWI.

By Bona Ogbonna

Barr. Chinedu Leonard Adili-Ubah (Tino), special assistant to Governor Obiano on legal matters yesterday, January 1, 2021 handed over a 3-bedroom bungalow he built and furnished to Anyamene family of Umudim village, Nnewi, Nnewi North Council Area.

According to Rev. Fr. Dominic Okezue of St Martin De Porres Catholic Church, Umudim Nnewi, Barr. Tino approached him and told him he wants to build a house for a widow and requested him to identify who the beneficiary will be.

Fr. Okezue informed that he discovered the Anyamene family on 24th of November, 2020 and called the attention of the benefactor to it and immediately work commenced at the site. He prayed God to continue blessing Hon. Chinedu with long life and prosperity.

Commissioning the building, the first female governor in Nigeria and former Governor of Anambra State, Her Excellency, Dame Virgy Etiaba commended Barr. Chinedu for bringing light into the Anyamene family.

" I am so happy that God raised a helper for this family. When you look at the old house, definitely you will shed tears but God has built a beautiful house here today through Barr. Chinedu", she said.

Explaining reasons behind the project, Barr. Adili-Ubah informed that it was in fulfiment of his covenant with God that he will give back to the society as long as God blesses the works of his hands.

" I made God a promise when I was building my factories, that if I succeed, that I will use a percentage of the proceeds to build a house for a widow. I succeeded and here is the house i built and furnished".

" I don't know the family. I have never met any of them before November last year. when I came with Fr. Dominic on that fateful day, I sheded tears after seeing their old building. When they gave consent that the bush beside the compound be cleared for the new structure, we swang into action the same day."

" I am happy that within three weeks, God used me to erect this building for the Anyamene family. Honestly, I'm delighted that everything went as planned and I will do more of this just like Osodieme the wife of our dear governor, Chief Willie Obiano " Barr. Chinedu assured.

In their separate remarks, Chief Sir Melie Onyejepu (Ogbuefi), General Manager, Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement, lauded Barr Chinedu for this wonderful show of love, describing the donation as one of the biggest service one can render to humanity.
Chief Ugochukwu Udemezue, President General, Nzukora Nnewi and Barr. Chinedu's elder brother, Chief Kenneth Adili-Ubah, CEO. Powell Group appreciated him for the gesture and prayed God to continue blessing him.

The beneficiary, Mrs. Virginia Anyamene while thanking the benefactor described the project as the greatest gift she has ever received from any human being.

Others present include: Chief Emma. Nsiedo, Fmr. Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Izuchukwu Adichie, S.A to the Governor Obiano on media among others.

Nwa Chinedu Eze Omeogo, deje dalu o!

Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu (Ogbuefi) puts smile on face of Apga wards Exco in Nnewi North LGA, as they gets a bag of Rice each.

Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu (Ogbuefi) puts smile on face of Apga wards Exco in Nnewi North LGA

Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu (Ogbuefi) puts smile on face of Apga wards Exco in Nnewi North LGA

IT WAS A CHRISTMAS EVE LIKE NO OTHER FOR THE APGA FAMILY IN NNEWI NORTH LGA.

IT WAS A CHRISTMAS EVE LIKE NO OTHER FOR THE APGA FAMILY IN NNEWI NORTH LGA.

...as Hon Melie Onyejepu (Ogbuefi), played host to the party's 21 Man Exco members each, from the 10 wards in Nnewi North LGA ( 210 in number).

By Bona Ogbonna.

A new pace was set in Nnewi North LGA Apga family by Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu (Ogbuefi), the General Manager Bureau of Procurement Anambra State/ the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Anambra State on Budget, when he played host to all the 210 Exco members from the 10 wards of Apga in Nnewi North LGA.

Addressing the highly elated Apga leaders from the 10 wards, he urged them to always remember that Apga is the ruling party in Anambra State, and that today's meeting should be a wake-up call to all the Apga wards Exco in Nnewi North LGA. He also informed the wards Exco that every political appointees, including himself are under the party Executives. Continuing, Chief Melie Onyejepu informed them that he decided to have a paradigm shift from the old ways of doing things. And that his assertion was informed by the believe that since everyone contributes to the party, it's important that everybody should be part of the system, and not only the four key office holders.
He also advised them to identify and establish a cordial relationships with all the stakeholders in their respective Wards.

The Nnewi North LGA Apga Chairman, Hon Chike Agwuncha, Wards Exco and all the stakeholders present, thanked Ogbuefi Melie Onyejepu immensely for initiating this laudable concept, and believes that it will bring a big turnaround to the party at every level. He equally lauded Chief Melie for truly showing that he is indeed a major stakeholder and a lover of the party.

In his closing remarks, Ogbuefi Melie thanked them for honoring his invitation, and charged them not to relent in their tireless efforts of making sure that Apga remains the ruling party in Anambra State come 2021. In the spirit of the yuletide, he made sure that every member of the Wards executive went home with a bag of Rice each.

The fruitful and well attended meeting had in attendance, Hon Nonso Smart Okafor, the member representing Nnewi North constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, his immediate predecessor, now a Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Anambra State on Legislative matters, Hon Amala Anazodo (The godfather)
Hon Ikenna Ubaezuonu
Prince Bobby Onwuosa
Chief Barr. Eloka Osuigwe
Chief Otitodilinna Azubike
Barr. Nnamdi Chima
Chief Ifeanyichukwu Nwodo (Ifeco)
Hon Nchedo Oboh
Hon Patterson Uzuegbunam
Hon Emma Nsoedo
Hon Okwuchukwu Ibekwe
Chief Emma Unigwe
and others.

Hon Melie Onyejepu honoured

Igbere TV Leadership Excellence awards ceremony

Still on Igbere TV Leadership Excellence awards

Hon Melie Onyejepu honoured

Igbere TV Leadership Excellence awards

HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU HONOURED WITH THE "STATE PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR 2020.

By Bona Ogbonna

The General Manager Bureau of Public Procurement Board of Anambra State, Hon Melie Onyejepu was among the recipients of this year's prestigious Igbere TV Leadership Excellence Awards.

The executive director of Igbere TV, the event organizers, Emeh James, in his welcome remarks, eulogised all the recipients for distinguishing themselves in various works of life.

Presenting the award to Sir Melie Onyejepu on behalf of the organizers, Hon Ifeanyi ibezi, a former member of the federal house of representatives, described Chief Melie as someone who truly merited more than this, and that the people of Anambra State are looking forward to more greater awards considering all he has done for humanity and the entire people of Anambra State.

Hon Melie Onyejepu in his acceptance speech, thanked the Almighty God for the honor given to him, he also thanked the management of Igbere TV, and prayed that God will continue to bless them and lead them from strength to strength. Continuing, he specifically dedicated the award to His Excellency, Chief Dr Sir Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano, the executive Governor of Anambra State, and the entire civil service of Anambra State. He equally thanked all his friends and his lovely wife for all the supports they have given to him over this period he has been in Government. He also dedicated the award to the Nigerian youths.

The event was held at Sheraton hotels & towers, Abuja, under the chairmanship of Prince Ned Nwoko, with Senator Dino Melaye as the keynote Speaker.

Some of the awardees who graced the oçcasion are DCP Abba Kyari, Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere of Omega Power Ministry, Prof Dr. Godwin Maduka, Senator Uba Sani, Hon Chief Chinedu Obidigwe, Prof Onwunari Abraham Georgewill, Senator Abiodun Olujimi, Princess Chinwe Nnabuife, Prof Babagana Umaru Zulum and host of others.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FprX24B3_gU

IGBERE TV LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE AWARDS, GROUP CONGRATULATES HON MELIE ONYEJEPU AS HE WINS THE PRESTIGIOUS "STATE PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR 2020".

By Bona Ogbonna

It is with great joy in our hearts that we, the entire members of a non Political, and non Governmental group, GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE GROUP, "grassrootsig", heartly rejoice with, and congratulates one of our indefatigable benefactor,
Chief Hon Sir Melie Ifeanyi Onyejepu (Ogbuefi), the General Manager Bureau of Public Procurement Board Anambra State, for emerging the overall winner of the open-online voting for preferred nominees in the 2020 Igbere TV leadership Excellence Awards for "STATE PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR".

For us at "grassrootsig", we are convinced that you merited and truly deserved this award, because your track records of achievement since you joined the administration of Governor Willie Obiano, speaks volume.

For the first time since its creation, Anambra State's Budget and its implementations became one of the best in the country since you came on board, first as a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) and later a Special Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State, both were on Budget related matters, and within the said period, Anambra State was declared one of the State with the best fiscal responsibility index in Nigeria.

Ogbuefi your present position as the General Manager Bureau of Public Procurement Board Anambra State and your emergence as the winner of the prestigious 2020 Igbere TV leadership Excellence award for the STATE PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR, did not come to us as a surprise, because you are one of the rare breeds that is always striving for excellence. We will continue to admire you for your courage and dedications, and for always standing up for whatever you believe in. This award from the prestigious Igbere TV has also proven that, "The farmer who has done the hard work should have the first share of the harvest".

While we hope that this award will spur you into doing more greater services to the State and humanity, that will lead you to a greater heights where you will be saddled with higher and bigger responsibilities, be also assured of our continuous support and prayers, now and always.

Ogbuefi, congratulations!

Sir Onyejepu, parabéns

Hon Melie, complimenti

Bona Ogbonna
Leader/Founder, GRASSROOTS INITIATIVE GROUP. "grassrootsig"

The Commissioning of the ultra modern primary health centre at Akaboezem

Still on Akaboezem

AKABOEZEM COMMUNITY LAUDS GOV WILLIE OBIANO AGAIN

Thanks to the #ObianoInUs

AKABOEZEM COMMUNITY LAUDS GOV WILLIE OBIANO OVER HIS ADMINISTRATION'S DEVELOPMENTAL WORKS IN NNEWI.

... Appreciates Hon Melie Onyejepu as they commissions their ultra modern Health Centre.

By Bona Ogbonna

The people of Akaboezem Community of Uruagu in Nnewi North LGA, rolled out their celebration drums to accord a befitting welcome to the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Dr Sir Willie Obiano, ably represented by Chief Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu, on the occasion of the Commissioning of their ultra modern State of the art health centre.
In their welcome address presented by the community's Vice Chairman Hon Eloka Clement Ikeh, they expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the self help project.
Continuing, he said that they are aware that the government can not provide all the needs of the whole state alone, hence their support in providing the ultra modern health center. However, he requested that government should assist them equip the centre.
He concluded by once again lauding the State Governor for all the developmental projects he has executed, which includes the 100ft road Erosion Control, that of Obiofia Nnewichi and Mbana-akwu Oduda Nnewichi Erosion Sites, the lighting up of all the major roads in Nnewi, the unequalled security network, the Amuko Urban Water scheme, to mention but a few.
He also commended him for his effort in ensuring the timely completion of the Nnewi Hotels-Ekeson road which has reached an advanced stage.

The pioneer Chairman of the community, Chief Dr B U C Aghazu (Kpakpando Nnewi), in his speech, thanked Gov Obiano for all the laudable projects he has executed in Nnewi, he also ceased the occasion to remind the gathering of all the good efforts being made by Hon Melie Onyejepu for the interest of Ndi Nnewi since the inception of the present regime in the State.

The executive secretary/CEO of Anambra State primary healthcare development agency, Dr Mrs Chioma Ezenyimulu, in her remarks thanked the community for their spirit of oneness, and assured them that the state government will ensure that the centre benefits from the basic health care provision fund, a support from the Federal Govt. According to Dr Ezenyimulu, Anambra State primary health sector is one of the sectors that have benefitted immensely from Chief Willie Obiano's quest to turn around the health sector.

Hon Melie Onyejepu, who represented the State Governor praised the successive leadership of the community for their unity of purpose. He advised them to key into all the health programs being put in place by the Gov Obiano's administration, more especially the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ANSHIS). He assured them that the Nnewi Hotels-Ekeson roads project will be completed and commissioned before the middle of next year.

He informed them that the ministry of utilities have concluded all the necessary arrangements of mounting of street lights on the roads immediately it is completed. He informed them that the State Government has approved the settling up of a general hospital in Nnewi to ensure that the town benefits from the services of the secondary tier health sector.
While announcing the Governor's support, which will enable the community procure the disposables for the health centre, he also assured them that the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency will liaise with the State Ministry of Health towards equipping the health centre.
He promised that Chief Melie Onyejepu Foundation will award the sum of twenty thousand naira only (#20, 000.00) each to the first three expectant mothers that will put to bed in that health centre.

The highlights of the occasion, was the cutting of tapes that signified the official Commissioning of the health centre, followed with the tour around the facility.

In his vote of thanks, Chief Barr Benjamin Chukwuka, the Obi of Akaboezem Community, poured encomiums on Gov Obiano for identifying with Nnewi in terms of execution of developmental projects, he also thanked Hon Melie for his unflinching support and love towards Nnewi affairs. He prayed that God will elevate him to a higher level of service with a higher responsibilities.

Why I Nominated An Akara Seller As Local Government Councilor

I have received an overwhelming number of phone calls and text messages in reaction to the recent BBC Igbo video documentary of Hon. Mrs Ugochinyere Ezeh, an Akara (Bean Cake) seller in Nnewi, I facilitated her appointment to serve in the Transition Committee of Nnewi North Local Government as one of the Councillors.

While many sent in their commendation, others inquired on the wisdom behind the appointment. I appreciate all for the encomiums and will also share my thoughts on the appointment.

Before I joined mainstream politics, I have always believed that the less-privileged should be an integral part of our society and the society should not turn a blind eye towards them. While we sleep in the comfort of our beds, many of them cry themselves to sleep.

Since I was elected into Anambra State House of Assembly, most of my projects and programs are focused on touching the lives of the poor, oppressed and deprived, all in an attempt to give them a sense belonging.

The nomination of Mrs Ugochinyere Ezeh is not an exception, she is one woman who has serious determination and commitment to her Akara (Bean Cake) business, she is always seen in her shop as early as 6am and even late in the night, although save for the few times I have patronised her, I have not really had any personal encounter with her.

When I had the opportunity to nominate someone to serve in the local government council as one of the councillors, I discovered that most of the nominees in the list were from privileged background, with no consideration for people in the class of Mrs Ugochinyere Ezeh, without any hesitation, I forwarded her name as my nominee to represent the less privilege and the downtrodden.

I believe that people don't need to be born with a silver spoon before considered to be elected or appointed in any vantage position. Obviously, if Mrs Ugochinyere Ezeh has shown serious commitment to her trade, she will also bring such vigour in any assignment given to her, especially when she also had the educational qualifications.

As one who comes from a humble background, I believe that the circumstances of birth of anyone should not be an impediment to his or her growth in life. Our people should also understand that no one is ever rewarded for what he/she has received, but what he/she has given.

It is my view that while we continue to push for good road networks, steady power supply, business-friendly policies, youth empowerment and development, improved quality of education and other necessary infrastructures, we should not lose sight of the poor, weak, and disadvantaged who go to bed hungry and even wonder if they will pull through the night, let alone surviving another day.

I remain yours sincerely,

Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor,
Member Representing,
Nnewi North Constituency,
Anambra State House of Assembly.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTfUyq8egQ4

ANAMBRA ECONOMY WILL
SURPASS LAGOS – MELIE ONYEJEPU

Sir Melie Onyejepu is a former Special Adviser to the Anambra State Governor on Budget, Monitoring and Implementation. He is also the General Manager, Bureau of
Public Procurement Board, Anambra State.

In this interview, he talks about the future of Anambra State,
what attracted him to banking and more.


You are Special Adviser to Anambra State governor on Budget, Monitoring and Implementation, and also the General Manager, Public Procurement; what exactly does
your job entail?


In the budget area, my job entails monitoring budget implementation. We also make sure that the state derives value for whatever expense and advice the governor,especially where we feel that the expenses do not match the budgetary provision. This is when it is at variance with
what it should be or where the project is not aligning with the provisions of the budget and the focus of the government.
On the procurement side, we ensure the pricing of projects are in line with acceptable norm, that they are not overpriced, and the state derives value from those
implemented.

There is controversy about so many states borrowing carelessly, how has your work impacted Anambra State?


In 2015, because of our activities in the area of budget, Anambra came first in the entire South East and second in the country on the implementation of International Public
Accounting System. What that means is that Anambra keyed into transparency initiative and that all our accounting and budgeting systems have been patterned to meet international standard. It also means we have adopted the
same standard used in the United States and UK.
Therefore, if we are using the system by countries that are standard yardsticks for measuring transparency and accountability,
that will tell you the type of system we have put in place.
Secondly, in the procurement circle, we are implementing the law guiding public procurement to the letter. It requires
the establishment of a bureau and we have done that and are also putting into place electronic means of procurement, which will help eliminate issues of corruption and fraud.
What that does is that, in the comfort of your room, you can access the contracts we have awarded, who we awarded them to, the scope and cost. With this e-procurement platform, you can, as a citizen, cross-check what we are doing.
I can hold my head high and say that I am working with this Government. One great thing about this administration is that this is the first time the governor of the state has a clear stated blueprint, mission and vision.


Is the blueprint part of Vision 2070?

The essence of Vision 2070 is to expand this blueprint, incorporate new things and adjust to the dictates of the dynamics of a global economy.


The younger generation is clamoring for an opportunity in the nation’s political leadership positions; as a relatively young person, what is your take?


I believe that the older generation have done their bit. They have ruled us from independence till this moment and, like I said earlier, the running of government is changing and the nature of economies are going to change too. Most developed countries are moving into things like e-governance and it is not for the old generation.


Where do you see Anambra State in the next 20 years?


I see the economy of Anambra growing bigger than that of lagos. This will be made possible by the coming of Onitsha River Port and the cargo airport. With these on ground, we expect massive economic activities. Another thing that will grow the economy is gas. There is a prediction that oil and gas will fizzle out soon. To me, it won’t be so in most of the third world countries. However, even if oil becomes less relevant, gas will still be a major resource in the economy Igbariam in Anambra State is sitting on trillions of metric
tons of gas reserve that can feed the whole of West Africa, and Ibeto petrochemical is already building a gas handling plant. We are also expanding agricultural activities. At the inception of Governor Willie Obiano’s administration, we met 80,000 metric tons of rice production in this state and in less than four years, we have been able to move it to 338,000 metric tons with a projection that, by the end of the
year, we will start getting about 480,000 to 500,000 metric tons. It shows you the speed at which we are moving. Still in agriculture, we have boosted cassava production and by the time we adopt full mechanization, we will be one of the biggest exporters of cassava and rice in this part of the world. Another area Anambra is endowed is in that of industries. Nnewi people have a knack for manufacturing products like
Taiwan. There was a time Nnewi was the Taiwan of Nigeria but due to power issues, some of those industries closed shop. But that does not mean we cannot repeat that process today. We can use gas to develop an independent power plant that can power factories in Nnewi and Onitsha, so our industrialists can go back to what they know best. The state is also endowed with the knowledge of trade and commerce and what we need to do is provide enabling environment for our businessmen and women, and you will see them excel. I see an Anambra State where the size of the economy will move from its current GDP of about N4.8
trillion to about N20 trillion.


As a financial expert, what necessary economic steps should Nigeria take to avoid a possible crash of the economy considering the level of inflationary trends and unemployment in the country?


Let me just mention one or two. Once you are able to fix power, every other thing falls in place. Secondly, is agriculture, which is the highest employer of labour. Fixing power, as long as I am concerned, is simple. We have gas deposits all over the place. Use that to generate power.
Once this is in place, every other thing falls into place. Nigerians are very hardworking people, so just lay the foundation for them and you will see them grow.


How prepared are you for higher leadership positions?


Leadership is nothing more than your ability to lead by example, and then being able to use others to achieve your goal by ensuring that you delegate assignments, monitor it and have people buy into whatever you want to achieve. My work in the bank positioned me for that. In the private sector, you are given a target and you can’t just achieve your target without the support of other people, and if you don’t treat those people well, you can never achieve your
target since you can’t be everywhere at the same time. For you to do this, you must treat the people working with you well, lead by example and understand their feelings at any given time. So for me, leadership is about leading by example.

Power rotation will be a major issue in the coming Anambra governorship election; what is your view especially with regards to the argument that it encourages mediocrity?

The good thing about zoning is that it gives everybody a sense of belonging and opportunity to contribute their best. However, that does not mean that anybody can be presented because of zoning. I am not in support of that.

HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU, (OGBUEFI) HOST APGA NNEWI NORTH LGA EXECOS.

HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU, (OGBUEFI) HOST APGA NNEWI NORTH EXCOS.

HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU, (OGBUEFI) HOST APGA NNEWI NORTH LGA EXECUTIVES.

HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU, (OGBUEFI) HOST APGA NNEWI NORTH LGA EXECUTIVES.

As part of the measures to ensure the continuous growth of APGA in Nnewi, Hon Melie played host to the 24 Man Local Government Executives of APGA last Sunday.
In his opening remarks, Hon Melie said that the purpose of the meeting, was to discuss ways of taking the party to greater heights. He reminded them that as members of the ruling party in the State, Apga faithfuls should always be in the forefront of Political activities in the State. He asked the Excos to point out the challenges facing the party and suggest solutions that will bring about the growth of the party before the next year's Election.

In his contribution, the APGA Chairman, Nnewi North LGA, Mr Chike Agwuncha appreciated the Governor for all his love towards the people of Nnewi. He stated that Nnewi have benefitted a lot from this present Apga led Government in terms of human and infrastructural developments. He thanked the convener/host of the meeting, Hon Melie Onyejepu in a special way, noting that the meeting came at the appropriate time.

Members of the Excos who took turns to speak one after another, made good suggestions on how to move the party forward.
In his response. Hon Melie reminded them of all the benefits they have as members of the ruling party in the State, He informed them about the State mini Agric loan schemes that will soon take off in the State, and charged them to take the advantage of the loans.
He listed some of the projects executed in Nnewi by the Governor, which includes the Mbana-akwu Oduda Nnewichi Erosion Control, the Obiofia Nnewichi Erosion Control, the 100ft road Uruagu Erosion Control. Amuko Urban Water Scheme and other laudable projects, security inclusive.
He reminded them that the funds spent on those Erosion Sites alone, would have been more than enough to do all the roads in the entire Anambra South Senatorial District.
The Nnewi North LGA Apga Chairman, affirmed the commitment of all his Exco members to the party and to the Government of Chief Dr Willie Obiano.
Many stakeholders from other Local Governments within the State also attended the focal meeting.