₦airaland Forum

NNEWI NORTH IS "APGA"

NNEWI NORTH IS "APGA" AS OKE-MMANWU U-AYA STORMED NNEWI.

NNEWI NORTH IS "APGA"

NNEWI NORTH IS "APGA" AS OKE-MMANWU U-AYA STORMED NNEWI.

....It also turned out to be a day of commendation galores for Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu who hosted the Oke-Mmanwu visiting team.

....As Ndi Nnewi used the opportunity to shower praises on Gov Willie Obiano, "AKPOO AZA NNEWI" for showing them Love.

By Bona Ogbonna

The gathering of who is who in Nnewi on Sunday 26th, July 2020 at the residence of Hon. Sir Melie Onyejepu, when he hosted the U-UYA & U-UWA in their on going Oke-Mmanwu Local Govt tours, which arrived Nnewi North, has proved beyond all reasonable doubt that truly, "NNEWI NORTH LGA IS APGA."

The Founder/President of U-AYA & U-UWA Chief Hon Chinedu Benjamin Obidiegwu, a one time Special Adviser on political matters to the Governor of Anambra State, but currently a member representing Anambra East and West Federal constituency at the National Assembly who was unavoidable absent, but was represented by Hon Patrick Obalum Udoba ( Eze Ego Anam) member representing Anambra West Constituency in ASHA, gave an inspiring speach which greatly anchored on "power shift to Anambra South" and as a political group in APGA, they have resolved to go South because it is very clear that the good people of Anambra South Zone have supported there son from Anambra North whole heatedly, and for that reason. Power will definitely go to Anambra South come 2021 according to him.

The Host, Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu addressing his visitors, appreciated all those that made out time despite their respective tight schedules to come and indentify with him. He thanked the founder/president and all the members of the U-AYA & U-UWA for their total support to APGA since they were formed. He made it clear that it will be very good for APGA as a party to give its ticket to the people of Nnewi North come 2021, because the town has always been APGA'S strong base in terms of support both financially and what have you.
He acknowledged all the wonderful works already done and the on going ones by the State Governor, Chief Dr Sir Willie Obiano in Nnewi North both in appointment of political aides and physical structures, which includes the Control works at 100ft road, Obiofia Nnewichi and Mbana-akwu Oduda Erosion Sites respectively.
He equally thanked the ever supportive wife of the State Governor, Chief Dr Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano ( Osodieme) for her support for what she is doing with her NGO, "CAFE" to Ndi Anambra, more especially widows, the mentally, physically challenged and the youths.

The President General of Nnewi Town Union, Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, Sir Ugochukwu Udemezue, (Ifeneti), in his speech, thanked Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu for his efforts towards the successful controlling of the 100ft road Nnewi Erosion Menace. He used the opportunity to officially express gratitude to Gov Willie Obiano, on behalf of Ndi Nnewi for sending competent Companies to handle the Control works at all the Erosion Sites in Nnewi. He also informed the gathering of the on going works at Okpuneze-Nnewi hotels-Oraifite road. He prayed that God will continue to bless Gov Willie Obiano for the wonderful works his administration is doing in the State and Nnewi in particular.
Speaker after speaker lauded Sir Melie Onyejepu for using the cordial relationship existing between him the Governor, to attract many people oriented projects into Nnewi, they also extolled the APGA led Government under the quality leadership of Akpokuedike Global, for his love and care, more especially to Ndi Nnewi. They also poured encomium on Gov Willie Obiano for saving the town from the three major devastating Erosion Menace, by putting them under control. Every speaker undoubtedly believed and made it clear that the money spent on the three devastating Erosion Sites would have been more than enough to finance the construction of all the roads in Nnewi North and its environs.

The major highlights of the event was the entertainment of the gathering by the U-AYA Oke-Mmanwu and other masquerades.

Among the dignitaries whose presence added color to the event are:-
The founder/president of U-AYA & U-AWA, Chief Hon Chinedu Obidigwe (Aka Oma Jide Aku), the member representing the good people of Anambra East & West constituency in the HoR, ably reprensentated by Hon Patrick Obalum Udoba, ASHA member from Anambra West Constituency. Hon Nonso Smart Okafor, member representing Nnewi North constituency at Anambra State House of Assembly.
Members of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, led by its President General, Sir Ugochukwu Udemezue (Ifeneti). Nnewi North LGA APGA Excos led by its Chairman, Hon Chike Agwuncha. All the political appointees from Nnewi North LGA under Gov Willie Obiano, led by the Special Adviser on Legislative Matters to the Governor and the immediate past House of Assembly member, Hon Amala Kenneth Anazodo. Also in attendance were all the major political stakeholders and stalwarts in Nnewi North LGA. The present and immediate past TC members from Nnewi North LGA, led by the former Vice Chairman Hon Pius Onwuka, and the current Secretary, Hon Eche Anazodo, and Leaders. Leaders and major stakeholders of various Markets, and captains of industries in Nnewi North LGA.
Some State and all the Nnewi North LGA Excos of the newly formed, but the fastest growing non-political group in Anambra State, the AFA IGBO BU OFU MOVEMENT led by their National Legal adviser, Hon Sir Chinedu Adili Ubah (Tino) and Nnewi North LGA Coordinator Hon Tony Muodielo.
U-AYA & U-AWA, National planning and Strategy, Hon George Udedibia, and media team, led by Hon Dominic Okagbue and Machi Pius Igwe. Members of Association of APGA Aspirants ( AAA) led by Hon Nnanyelu Onyejepu.
Members of the Sir Melie Onyejepu and Sydney Foundations, and others.

HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU IS ONE OF GOD'S SPECIAL GIFT TO NDI NNEWI AND HUMANITY.

HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU IS ONE OF GOD'S SPECIAL GIFT TO NDI NNEWI AND HUMANITY.

.... He is one of the rare and special species.

By Bona Ogbonna

Once in a while, it pleases God to bless a town, by giving them a kind hearted person. And Nnewi is one of such lucky town, because they have one of God's best gift to humanity as their son, in person of Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu, the current Special Adviser on Budget and Efficiency/AIRS to Gov Willie Obiano, who was also recently appointed the General Manager of Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement Board by the Governor. He is the type of person that doesn't believe in publicizing his good plans and deeds for his people all over the media. Most of the empowerment programs and projects from the State Government the town is enjoying today was facilitated by him, and as a silent achiever which he has always been, you will hardly hear him making noise about it.

Hon Onyejepu, knowing full well that power outage is the major challenge to the lives, economy and general wellbeing of Ndi Nnewi, decided to do everything within his power to make sure that the problem of power is brought to the minimal level in Nnewi.
That was what lead to the distribution of various capacities of transformers to many communities in Nnewi through the support of the State Government under the active leadership of the State Governor, Chief Dr Willie Obiano, (Akpoo Aza na Nnewi).

Some of the communities that have so far benefited from this legacy, are St. Andrew's Anglican Church (DCC), Oduda and Okpuno in Nnewichi, Umuezeokalum and Umuezena in Umudim, Umungo village and Umudibia village Umumeagbu in Uruagu.

Many households and business owners in some of the benefiting communities, while expressing their joy and gratitude to Gov Obiano and Hon Onyejepu for this wonderful show of concern and kindheartedness, assured them that they will never forget. The PGs of all the communities that benefited from the show of love, unanimously lauded the State Governor and Ogbuefi Melie for making the work of their local vigilante groups easier, with the provision of these transformers. According to them, it has also helped to reduce the problem of overloadings off their old transformers.

Akpokuedike lulu olu oma gi gaba na iru, obu olu oma gi ka aga eji cheta gi ma emesia.

Ogbuefi Melie lulu olu oma gi gaba na iru, obu olu oma gi ka aga eji cheta gi ma emesia.


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

HOW THE ODUDA-NNEWICHI WAS SAVED FROM THE MENACE OF A DEVASTATING FLOOD AND EROSION.

.....THE COMMUNITY THANKS GOV WILLIE OBIANO FOR HIS QUICK RESPONSE.

..... AND EXTOLS HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU FOR FACILITATING IT.

By Bona Ogbonna

The Mbana-akwu Oduda Erosion which has been there for a long time, is an offshoot of the main flood that went right inside part of Oduda. It was as a tributary of the flood that came down from Awka-etiti, part of Oraukwu and Adazi through Nnobi. It passes through Oduda to Obiofia and Okpuno Nnewichi.

HOW THE STATE GOVT INTERVENED

Noticing the active nature of the Erosion Site, the community cried out for assistance from the State Government, and quickly approached Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu for his intervention. Hon Melie upon receiving a letter from the community, informed the hard working Governor of the State, Chief Willie Obiano for the State's intervention. The pictures of the Site was so disturbing to the Governor that that he promptly requested the Ministry of Environment to quickly interven and solve the problem. With the active support of the then Commissioner for Environment, Chief Michael Okonkwo who quickly appraised the situation and awarded a contract to an indigenous local contractor. This timely intervention, saved many properties which were already at verge of collapse.

CONTRACT AWARDED TO A LOCAL AND INDIGENOUS CONTACTOR

The contract was awarded to Godlina Engineering Services Ltd, a very competent and indigenous local company, and they have done 80% of the job by bringing the Erosion under control and hence stabilizing the area. One will be marvelled at the quality of the work being done by the contractor, because no one believed that a local and indigenous contactor has the capacity and competence to do such quality job.

The State Government in collaboration with the NEWMAP has been able to contain the Obiofia/Okpuno portions of the major Erosion menace. The project is costing the State Government and World Bank a woofing sum of#6.7b

The State Government is also working with NEWMAP to make sure that the Erosion is also controlled from the head of the slope, which is at Abubor down to Oduda so that it will connect with the one they are intervening in at Okpuno and Obiofia.

One of the saved property owners at the Mbana-akwu Oduda Erosion Site under construction through the Ministry of Environment, Chief Obiora Okeke JP, couldn't curtail the happiness and joy welling up in him because of this wonderful intervention by Gov Obiano. He thanked the State Government immensely for coming to their rescue. He equally appreciated Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu for facilitating the project.

Still on Dr Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano’s Philantropy

Appreciating Dr Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano’s Philantropy

Appreciating Dr Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano’s Philantropy

Written By: HON MELIE ONYEJEPU

Philanthropy involves charitable giving to worthy causes. It is beyond a gift of cash, goods or services made to help accomplish goals of individuals and organizations. Philanthropy is an effort an individual or organization undertakes based on an altruistic desire to improve human welfare.

Charitable acts or other good works that help others or society as a whole are acts of philanthropy. They include donating money to a worthy cause, or volunteering time, effort or other forms of altruism.

Philanthropy dates back to a Greek philosopher, Plato, in 347 BC. His Will instructed his nephew to use the proceeds of the family farm to fund the academy that Plato founded. The money helped students to keep the academy running. Thus, philanthropy is the desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.

Those who are well known in their communities or business to promote their reputation and assist the poor and the vulnerable in the society are philanthropists. However, anyone can be a philanthropist regardless of status or net worth. Any person who donates his time, money, experience, skills or talent to help create a better world, is already doing the work of charity.

One does not need to be rich to be a philanthropist. Philanthropy is all about thought, care, deliberation, going beyond the expected and becoming involved. One can equally become a philanthropist by performing random acts of kindness, giving away old belongings, donating blood, if he or she is healthy, and taking advantage of workplace benefits. Throw away items can sometimes help others. One could equally provide his or his expertise for charity.

People can sponsor indigent but brilliant chaps or fund sports and healthcare initiatives for the benefit of the down trodden – that is philanthropy.

Individuals with milk of human kindness flowing in their blood sometimes establish foundations to felicitate their philanthropic efforts. One of such is the Caring Family Enhancement (CAFÉ) initiative of the wife of the governor of Anambra state, Chief Dr. Ebelechukwu Obiano. Since Osodieme, in August 2014, set up the Caring Family Enhancement Initiative (CAFÉ), a non-governmental and nonpartisan organization as a beacon of hope and sustainable empowerment for women and the less privileged, she has kept her promise to be the voice of women beside her husband by providing succor to the needy, indigent widows and rural women across the communities in Anambra state.

So far, Dr Mrs. Obiano has set very high standards with CAFÉ projects in parts of Anambra State. These include building of CAFÉ market toilets, provision of skills acquisition, training and empowerment programmes for women and youths and donation of free prosthetic limbs to the vulnerable. Others are donation of wheel chairs to the physically challenged, maintaining home for the mentally challenged at Nteje and sponsoring of cleft lip and cleft palate surgery for kids.

Through CAFÉ, Dr. Mrs. Obiano has built many houses for poor widows across the three Senatorial zones of the State as well as provided healthcare needs of the vulnernable members of the society. Under the initiative, Osodieme has equally provided avenues for youths, women, children and mentally deranged members of the society, among many others.

Furthermore, many philanthropists have exhibited their humanitarian altruistic nature during this rampaging COVID-19 pandemic. They donated palliatives both to governments and individuals to ameliorate the effect of the virus on the society. This is not only commendable but exemplary. The reward for philanthropy is in heaven. Hence, philanthropists should continue to look out of the loop and under the radar. It makes more sense to help people who spread love wherever they go; those who cannot pay back. This is what Chief Dr Mrs. Ebelechukwu Obiano, Osodieme, stands for.

Umuezeagu of Uruagu in Nnewi North LGA is under serious threat.

By Bona Ogbonna

The people of Umuezeagu, Uruagu in Nnewi North LGA are under a heavy threat from a menacing flood. The traditional head of Umuezeagu, Chief Chinedu Obidozie (Obi Umuezeagu), in company of Mr Sunday Anosike (Community development chairman), Chief Godwin Agu-Okonkwo and Mr Paul Ejefo, while conducting news men round the village, narrated the havoc caused and is still being caused by the flooding to the entire village. According to them, each time it rains, the villagers don't feel comfortable due to the speed and volume of flood that flows into the village from the neighboring villages, more especially from Okpuneze.
According to the Community leaders, they have spent a lot of money through individuals and communial efforts, but it continues going from bad to worst.
They are therefore sending out SAVE OUR SOUL cry to the Anambra State Government, and all the elected Representatives of their Constituency both at National and State levels, to quickly come to their aid and help them prevent the looming disaster.
They however expressed their gratitude to God Almighty for His mercies and protection towards the community, more especially upon their little Children, because, according to them, they have not lost any life to the menace since it went from bad to worst.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BC_arCjjbM



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMykn4Biznc

Still on Anambra State, The Investment Hub Of Nigeria.

Anambra State, The Investment Hub Of Nigeria.

Anambra State leads, others follow

Anambra State, The Investment Hub Of Nigeria.


By Melie Onyejepu

Economic and Business Management experts recently indicated in their findings, after rigorous research, that Anambra is one of the states mostly prepared for both local and foreign investment. According to them, the state has put structures in place that would make the process of investing easy for prospective investors. They are of the view that Anambra is now in her finest moment in history and is building partnerships that would help it leapfrog to a more advanced society.

Apart from the fact that Anambra is the only state in the country that has a separate agency, the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency, to champion its cause, Anambra has one of the highest literacy rates in Nigeria. It offers access to the largest retail market in West Africa and has the largest crop of experienced middlemen and suppliers with enough expertise to move goods across Africa.

Anambra equally has easy access to industrial lands, which have been mapped out in the state’s Land-Bank as well as offers a speedy company registration and issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. Above all, Anambra has been ranked as the most transparent and accountable state in Nigeria for having complied with International Public Sector Accounting System and Accounting Standards.

More so, Anambra has abundant human and material resources. The state is blessed with crude oil, natural gas, bauxite, gypsum, lead, lignite, limestone, iron ore and salt among others. With an economy of three point eight trillion naira, Anambra has the lowest poverty rate in Nigeria with two point three dollars per capita. Thus, if Anambra were to be an independent country, its GDP per capita would have been seventeenth in Africa. Anambra would have been ahead of Ghana, Kenya, Cote de Voire, Senegal, Tanzania, Rwanda and many others.

Anambra has great tourism potentials with the Ogbaukwu Cave and Waterfalls at Owerre-Ezukala and Ogbunike Cave at Ogbunike. Anambra is the tenth most populous state in Nigeria with a population of about six point five million people and a population density of eight hundred and sixty per square kilometre. And in the past six years, Anambra has been Nigeria’s safest state with crime rate at its lowest ebb in living memory.

Governor Willie Obiano has made Anambra Nigeria’s most peaceful and business-friendly environment. The ease of doing business here is unprecedented. Akpokuedike also invested heavily in education and as a result, Anambra produces two best performed candidates in the 2020 JAMB exams.

Five school girls from Regina Pacis, Onitsha shocked the world when they defeated the United States, China, Spain, Turkey, Uzbekistan and others to win the Gold Medal at the World Technovation Challenge held at the Silicon Valley, in the USA. Following the footsteps of these Golden Girls, four boys from Saint John’s Science and Technical College School, Alor also won the Bronze Medal at the World Festival of Engineering, Science and Technology in Tunisia.

All these give hope that the future of the state will be brighter than its present. It is therefore no exaggeration that Anambra State is the best place to locate factories in Nigeria at the moment. The Obiano administration has attracted a considerable volume of investments over the past six years.

Ndigbo, especially Ndi Anambra in the Diaspora should help the state to convince the foreign investors to come and invest in the state. Anambra is looking for partners that will help exploit our natural resources. The state has over forty trillion standard cubic feet of gas that has not been touched yet.

Ndi Anambra want partners that will exploit these rich reserves of gas for our mutual benefits. We need partners for the establishment of modular refineries. We also need partners in the power generation, agriculture, agro-allied industries and in the establishment of Industrial Parks among many others. The state government is ready to give priority attention to all investors.

ANAMBRA STATE GOVT IN COLLABORATION WITH WORLD BANK, SECURES NNEWI AND ITS ENVIRONS FROM EROSION MENACE.


.... AS THE COMMUNITY EXTOLS GOV WILLIE OBIANO AND HON MELIE ONYEJEPU FOR SAVING THEIR LIVES AND PROPERTIES

By Bona Ogbonna.

Nnewichi is a Community in Nnewi North LGA of the present day Anambra State. The peace loving People of the community who are predominantly farmers, work up one morning in the mid Eighties to discover to their astonishment, that the water flow from their neighbors, mostly Nnobi, Ichida, Awka-etiti and Nnokwa, have dealt them a great blow as a result of concentrated runoff from steep ground flowing into cleared drainage depressions.

As at then, the Erosion was still in it's early stages but it escalated drastically as a result of a drainage system which the then Directorate of Food, Roads and Rural Infrastructures (DFRRI) constructed around the Erosion site and didn't channel the water ways to the end properly, but was stopped half way near the site, this made all the water coming from the drainage to move into the erosion site and surged the pace of the erosion.
It will be recalled that the then Federal Military Government established the Directorate of Food, Roads and Rural Infrastructures (DFRRI) with the aim of rehabilitating various categories of roads in the country, and especially for the development of rural feeder roads in order to strengthen the massive efforts of food and agricultural self-sufficiency in the shortest possible period.
The following year after DFRRI constructed the drainage system, the erosion site increased drastically and the site that was once in the outskirts of Nnewichi, was moving in a fast rate and was already threatening lands, lives and properties of Nnewichi community.
The gully which was 3ft deep and 4ft wide before DFRRI's intervention, became more than 10ft deep and 20ft wide after collapse of the palliative works done by them.
The culverts linking Umuogboo Ngo to Akwu Umuogboo, and the one that connected Umuogboo Mbana with Akwu Umuogboo were washed away by the intimidating flood, this lead to a communal efforts to try to control the erosion as kids, youths and elderly came out to address the issue, lots of bamboo trees were planted in the Erosion site, a lot of money running into millions of naira was spent to help control and minimize the pace of the erosion.

HOPE WAS RESTORED BY GOV WILLIE OBIANO ADMINISTRATION.

But as can be seen today, the Government of Anambra State under H E, Chief Dr Sir Willie Obiano, the ANS-NEWMAP and the relentless efforts of Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu, SA BUDGET, EFFICIENCY/AIRS to the State Governor, who was recently appointment the General Manager of Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement Board, have restored the hope of the community by bringing the menace under control.

The World Bank is funding the project because Anambra State Government agreed to pay its counterpart fund.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzsA-ws1qxk

How hope was revived by the Administration of Gov Willie Obiano.

THE STORY OF NNEWICHI COMMUNITY EROSION SITE, WORLD BANK AND ANAMBRA STATE-NEWMAP.

... HOW HOPE WAS REVIVED BY THE ADMINISTRATION OF GOV WILLIE OBIANO.

By Bona Ogbonna.

THE COMMUNITY'S SAVE OUR SOUL CRY TO HON SIR MELIE ONYEJEPU.

Different Administrations passed and the wait for a response was to no avail, but a bright light showed at the very end of tunnel for the troubled and fear gripped community when hope was revived during the administration of Dr Willie Obiano. The community took their complain and sad story to one of the God's best gift to Ndi Nnewi and Humanity in general, Hon. Sir Melie Onyejepu, who was the then Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on budget planning, and explained the situation to him.

HON MELIE ONYEJEPU INVITES STATE GOVT.

Hon. Melie Onyejepu visited the site and immediately invited the Anambra State-NEWMAP, the Commissioner for Environment and Commissioner for Works for proper inspection, documentations and evaluation of the Erosion site.
The community also wrote a letter to the State Government and the State Government acknowledged that they will help coordinate affairs of the Erosion through Anambra State-NEWMAP, and that Hon. Sir Melie Onyejepu on behalf of the State Government will also negotiate with World bank so they can help with construction of the erosion site. And based on the promise, Hon Melie Onyejepu used all the arsenals at his disposal, including his already established contacts as a successful and renowned banker, to bring the World Bank to negotiation table and hence placed the project as a major priority albiet all others in the queue.

HON MELIE ONYEJEPU INVITES WORLD BANK.

Succor came to the community, when Hon Melie Onyejepu's efforts paid off and the World Bank accepted to negotiate and got interested in the project, they asked the State Government to provide a counterpart funding (fund established as part of an arrangement for converting foreign aid) for the project, and it was also agreed that compensation will be paid to those directly affected by the Erosion. The community were astonished when Hon Melie Onyejepu announced to them that funds have been made available for the paying of the compensations and the State Government's counterpart funding.

TEN (10) MAN SUPERVISION/MONITORING COMMITTEE.

A ten man project monitoring and supervision committee, under the leadership of Hon Eloka Ubajekwe was set up to supervise the claims and counterclaims during the compensations, they were also saddled with the responsibility of being the link between the contracting company that is handling the control works, Anambra State-NEWMAP and the community.
The compensation which was paid to all affected families at Obi Nnewichi palace was estimated to be more than Two Hundred and Fifty Million Naira Only (#250,000,000:00), this funds was shared among them including those that had lands with economic trees that would be useful for the project and those that their land were washed away.
After the compensation, work immediately started on the Erosion site and the amount of work done so far is massive and highly commendable.
Nnewichi community lost over 20 lives and 30 houses to the erosion and it would have been worse, it was estimated that 60% of Nnewichi community would have been washed away by the Erosion if not for the intervention of Anambra State Governor, H E Chief Dr Sir Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano and Hon. Sir Melie Onyejepu.

CHAIRMAN MONITORING/SUPERVISION COMMITTEE, LAUDS GOV WILLIE OBIANO & HON MELIE ONYEJEPU.

Hon. Chukwueloka Ubajekwe the Nnewichi Erosion projects supervision and monitoring Committee Chairman, has this to say about the State Governor, Chief Dr Sir Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano and Hon. Sir Melie Onyejepu concerning the Erosion Site.:-

"We later heard that one of our son was in touch with the World Bank but we thought that like other promises, that it will still end up as fairy tales.
Until one Faithful day, Hon. Melie Onyejepu called the people of Nnewichi and said a lot of things that almost no one believed, some persons said it was one of their political propagandas because another election (Gov Obiano's re-election to be exact) was around the corner at the time this story came up, some people mocked him saying he was only trying to buy their votes for the Re-run.
Personally, though I'm a member of APGA, I was almost in doubt but I still had to play my role so there wouldn't be any loopholes on my side. Days continue to pass by until I was appointed the Chairman of the project monitoring and supervision Committee that was when we went to survey the Ravine. I still thought it was a joke until I decided to see Hon Melie Onyejepu, that was when he assured me of the level of seriousness this project was about to embark on, that we the Committee members should play our part in every best way we can considering how ready the Government was.
Grassroot progress started as each person was assigned a particular area round the ravine for clarification purpose.
Finally, we were told to compile names of affected person for compensation which was immediately paid. This was when everyone's spirit came alive.
Caterpillars and other heavy duties trucks were immediately moved to the site, and in less than 6 months some areas were already repaired, work has been going on with all form of speed and without any form of retardation.

On behalf of the committee members and the entire Nnewichi Community, I want to thank the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Dr Sir Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano, Akpokuedike Global, Odogwu Omambala, Akpoo Aza na Nnewi, for all his show of love and cares towards the community and Nnewi Town in general.
We are also extending our profound gratitude to one of the God's best gift to Ndi Nnewi and Anambra State, Hon Sir Melie Ifeanyichukwu Onyejepu (Ogbuefi) for hearkening to the "SAVE OUR SOUL" cry from the community. It's our collective wish that God and Ndi Anambra State will find him worthy to continue serving the State at a much higher level with bigger responsibilities."


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwBKRcCC5AM



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv8BivsZrfA

Anambra Residents to get portable water supply soon. Gov Willie Obiano and Hon Melie Onyejepu

Works advances at Nnewi water scheme

WORK ADVANCES AT THE NNEWI WATER SCHEME PROJECT.

..... As Hon Melie Onyejepu assures Anambra Residents of Portable Water Soon.

By Bona Ogbonna

A visit to the Anambra State water cooperation Nnewi unit, will convince even the doubting Thomases that the Gov Willie Obiano's led State Government is truly matching their words with visible actions with the construction of new model urban water project that is aimed at changing the believe that potable water supply is no longer possible.
The speed and quality of works at the water board Nnewi unit by the construction company handling the project, ATLANTIC DRILLING FLUIDS SERVICES LTD, is not only encouraging but it shows that the State Government really meant business.
Those that visited the site in April 2020, won't be able to believe their eyes with the rate of infrastructures that are in place now at the same Site. The site engineer of the construction firm wasn't even happy with their own pace of works, according to him, the constant rain have forced them to slow down their pace. He said, that since the State Government has fully mobilized them, that they have no reason whatsoever to delay the project, if not for the rain.

He added that they have refurbished the old overhead tank, and that it's ready for use now. He also said that they have put in place two surface tanks and are almost done with the drilling and fixing of the borehole.

Recall that the Anambra State Government commensed state-wide construction of new model urban water projects to phase out individual borehole system that littered all over the State.

The special Adviser to Gov Willie Obiano on Budget, Efficiency/AIRS, Hon Melie Onyejepu who was recently appointed the General Manager of Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement Board, had said during a visit to the Site in April,2020, that the project which was divided into two phases, had already started in Nnewi at its abandoned water project located at old Nnewi Onitsha road Amuko.

According to Onyejepu, the pilot scheme which was the first phase, would gulp $1million and would on completion distribute potable water within the area the project was sited and would later go round the whole Nnewi community when the second phase was completed.

He said that the project was divided into engineering, house enumeration, metering and billing and appealed to Nnewi residents to cooperate with the enumerators to make their job easy.

He noted that the Anambra State Government's collaboration with the foreign donors was designed that the State would pay a counterpart funding of between N50 million and N100 million. He noted that the project was being executed with quality assurance.

It's very important to note that all the Previous Governments in the State did not invest in water and people began to sink boreholes here and there, forgetting that the gains of public water supply far outweighed the individual borehole projects, because apart from the high cost in maintaining the private water boreholes, ecological problems it generated posed a threat to the residents.
Provision of water is a major democracy dividend and Anambra State Government under Gov Willie Obiano is working on various water projects to ensure provision of potable water.

His Excellence Governor Willie Obiano has been working with donor agencies like World Bank and ADB for new urban water model.

The construction firm lauded Hon Melie Onyejepu for making sure that the host Community is giving them all the necessary support, in terms of security and other logistics that has been serving as a motivating factor to their staffs, which in the other hand has also enabled them to put in their best.

Akpokuedike Global, OBRIGADO.

Akpoo Aza Nnewi, OBRIGADO.

Hon Melie Onyejepu, OBRIGADO.

Mrs. Obiano Decries Obnoxious Practices Against Widows.

By Bona Ogbonna

The Wife of Governor of Anambra State and founder of Caring Family Enhancement Initiative (CAFE) an NGO, Dr. (Mrs.) Ebelechukwu Obiano (Osodieme) has decried the sustenance of obnoxious practices which deny widows basic rights in some communities. She called on those who promote such discriminatory and degrading acts to discard them and accord widows their rights as full-fledged members of the community.

Mrs. Obiano made the plea in Awka on 23rd June 2020, in a special message signed by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Emeka Ozumba, to commemorate the International Widows Day 2020.

Mrs. Obiano stated that situations where the rights of women are tied solely to their husbands' is discriminatory, abhorrent and should be abolished.
In her words:

"In this twenty first century it is disheartening and unpardonable to hear that a woman stands accused of the death of her husband and is therefore subjected to life threatening and painful mourning practices and rites. Often, such widows are separated from their children, and the properties of the diseased husbands rudely appropriated by their accusers.Thankfully, our laws have recognized the rights of women to inheritance, but such laws must be enforced to preserve the dignity of widows and the family unit."

The wife of the Governor urged community leaders where such practices hinder widows to ensure the discard of such retrogressive practices which single out hapless widows at their most vulnerable moments for maltreatment in the name of tradition. "Every widow deserves the right to work, access to healthcare and inheritance. No person or group should deny a widow her rights under false pretenses," she emphasized.

Mrs. Obiano whose NGO, CAFE, is in the forefront of care and empowerment of indigent widows has built free houses for twenty-seven beneficiary widows so far. She has equally offered thousands of widows free training on various life sustaining skills.

Osodieme commended the United Nations for dedicating a day of observance for widows which enhances awareness of the challenges they faced in some parts of the world. She also thanked the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, for ensuring that issues concerning women, especially widows, are given priority attention to ensure their welfare.

The goal of the United Nations on the day is to develop resources and policy to empower widows, with all rights restored, and enable them to create a life for themselves and their children in order to end the cycle of poverty and abuse that confront them

Meatballs:
I really don't see any reason for this

Because you have allowed hatred to cloud your sense of reasoning and understanding.

Still on the Igbo Women Traders Association invitation to Chief Sir Melie Onyejepu to be their patron.

Igbo Women Traders Association invites Chief Sir Melie Onyejepu to be their patron.

By Bona Ogbonna

The Igbo Women Traders Association under the leadership of Mrs Promise Ezeigwe, who is also, the State Women Leader of ASMATA, led a huge delegation of the various leadership heads to pay a courtesy visit to Chief Sir Melie Ifeanyi Onyejepu at his country home in Odida Nnewichi Nnewi.
The market women who are very well accomplished both as business and community leaders had taken the decision to select not more than five men of substance to be their patrons.
The ambience for the occasion was very festive and welcoming Chief Sir Melie Onyejepu’s house. The women indeed felt at home from their demeanor.
It was under this atmosphere that Mrs Promise Ezeigwe rose to articulate the purpose of the visit to Ogbuefi Melie.
She said that when they undertook this present project that she kept hearing the name, ‘Melie’ from virtually all recommendations coming to her. She decided that rather than send the letter of appointment to Chief Sir Melie Onyejepu, that they should visit him to present the letter of appointment, and as well, use the opportunity to satisfy her curiosity of meeting the man whose name precedes him.
Mrs Ezeigwe continued by saying that Ogbuefi Melie’s reputation is very intact through the testimomials of every delegate from Nnewi market and other markets in Anambra state who know him.
“It was because of your impeccable reputation that the entire enlarged state EXCO uninamously voted to make you our patron”.
“Nothing gladdens the heart of women more than having an upright man for a brother, son, and or a husband”.
“In this case, we humbly invite you to please become our Patron”.
Mrs Ezeigwe spoke further on why they are very happy with the government of Chief Wilie Obiano and her Excellency, Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano(Osodieme). She said that it was Willie Obiano who paved the way for the women to have an independent organization to cater to their needs.
She informed Melie that they worked amicably with Peter Obi, however, the erstwhile governor could not grant their request to address the women issues separately.
“That non-action by Governor Obi meant that the women in the market could not have a voice in matters that concern them since the men usually control the market and the revenue”.
“It is important to note that despite everything, we continued to champion the elections each cycle “.

Chief Melie responded to the market women by thanking them. First, by giving consideration to his person, and secondly, having faith that he would diligently attend to their needs.
Chief Onyejepu gave them a brief bio of his career. He told them that he has been a banker with 24 years of experience.
In fact he was one of the pioneer staff of Diamond bank.
Chief Sir Melie extolled the virtues of women for their commitment in everything they do.
“No one can out-manoeuvre the women when they take a stand”.
“The women have a great deal of discipline which they apply liberally without any compromise when a member runs afoul of their4 regulations”.
He begged them to keep thanking and supporting Governor Obiano for the excellent work he has been doing for the good people of Anambra state.
He told the women group that even with the crisis in the oil market which affected Nigeria and all states’ revenue allocation, that the Anambra state government continues to pay salaries and pensions.
“In fact, while most states that got bailed out with funds to meet salary arrears, have gone in debt, deeper in salary arrears to workers, while, Governor Obiano has perfected plans to begin paying Anambra state workers the new minimum wage.
Chief Melie spoke on various projects the state is handling, particularly, those that are coming on stream.
The street lights phenomenon has greatly reduced crimes in the state. It has helped to increase the revenue base of our people, particularly, the women who could now utilize the street lights to trade safely.
He spoke glowingly of the special love the Governor has for Nnewi. That the Obiano’s government has spent over 11billion naira in visible projects in Nnewi.
He pointed to the land-mark erosion projects being done at Obiofia Okpuno Nnewichi and 100 foot road by very reputable companies.
Besides the government’s investment in projects in Nnewi, no other town after Aguleri has more political appointments than Nnewi.
He urged the market women leaders to always monitor the activities of the government, otherwise, they may fall prey to the antics of the opposition groups that only feed the people malicious negative propaganda against the working governor.
Chief Melie Onyejepu asked the women to keep supporting Her Excellency for her generosity and love towards the needy children.
He said that he has never seen any woman with such large heart, who is always eager to assist women and children in difficulties.
Finally, Chief Onyejepu asked the women to be consistent in their dealings at all times because he does not know how to promise and fail.
In responding to Melie’s acceptance of the patronship, the president, Mrs Ezeigwe praised Chief Melie Onyejepu for accepting to be their patron.
She reiterated that they are committed to what ever program their patron intends to promote at any time. That they would lead such with a lot of fanfare.

The market women later presented Chief Sir Melie Onyejepu with a giant silver-crafted clock.

Hon Nchedo Oboh who is a state officer of ASMATA gave a vote thanks before the ravish entertainment facilitated by Chief Sir Onyejepu began.

Members of A A A Anambra State Hosts Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu

Members Association of APGA Aspirants (AAA) Anambra State, hosts Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu.

...Congratulates him over his new appointment.

By Bona Ogbonna

The members of the Association of APGA Aspirants (AAA), today hosted Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu at Nnewi over his new appointment as the General Manager of the Bureau of Public Procurement by the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Dr Sir Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano (Akpokuedike Global).
In his opening speech, the leader of the Association, Hon Owelle Mbaso said that the group deemed it fit to host and congratulate him over the new appointment which according to them, was as a result of Hon Melie's hardwork, dedication and what have you.

Hon Mbaso on behalf of the Association made it clear that they are already looking forward to working with him at higher level with a higher responsibilites. And that they are still full part of the APGA family and are ready to work with and for him at any higher responsibilites given to him by the party.
They also stated that his appointment is one of the best things that have ever happened in this present administration, because they believe that he is the right person for the job.
They also used the opportunity to laud Gov Willie Obiano for putting the right peg perfectly into the right hole via this appointment.

Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu in response, thanked the association for hosting him. He aslo used the opportunity to thank them for their steadfastness and believe in APGA despite all that happened in the past.
He urged them to continue to support Gov Willie Obiano administration, because according to him, the Governor is a very nice person, and that he also believe that all their recent demands from the Governor has been met. He begged them to forgive peradventure any of those demands were not met, and continue working and supporting the party.

Recall that the Executive Governor of Anambra State, H E Chief Dr Sir Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano, Akpokuedike Global, on the 29th day of May, 2020 Inaugurated the fourteen Man (14) Bureau of Public Procurement Board with Hon Sir Melie Onyejepu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget/Efficiency Unit/AIRS, as its General Manager.

Other Members of the Association present at the gathering are:-
1. Hon. Ochotaraudo
2. Hon. High Chief Louis
3. Hon. Akunwata Charles O.
4. Hon. Engr. Williams Anyaorah
5. Hon. Akajiugo
6. Hon. Engr. Jagaban
7. Hon. Nwakpadolu Chidi
8. Hon. Chief Anselem Offor
9. Hon. Chimaobi Okeke
10. Hon. Barr. Ikenna Ubezuonu
11. Hon. Nnanyelu Onyejepu
12. Hon. Chukwudum Chioma
13. Hon. Barr. Chigozie Onuorah
14. Hon. Ibeakaeze Tochukwu
15. Hon. Harbert Oragui
16. Hon. Chuma Agwasinwa
17. Hon. Anayo Okpaleke
18. Hon. Barr. Chisom Chude
19. Hon. Igwulube.

Light refreshments and entertainment followed after.

Nnewichi Community recieves ANS-NEWMAP team

Still on ANS-NEWMAP visit

STILL ON THE ANS-NEWMAP'S VISIT TO NNEWICHI COMMUNITY IN NNEWI NORTH LGA

Anambra State-NEWMAP team visits Nnewichi Community in Nnewi North LGA.

.....as community lauds Chief Melie Onyejepu for his efforts.

By Bona Ogbonna

A team of NEWMAP officers from Anambra State visited Nnewichi Community today to sensitise them on the methods and ways of curtailing climate change.
In his opening speech, the Communication Officer of ANS-NEWMAP briefed the community members of the reasons of their visit. He advised on the use of the energy saving bulbs in our various homes, which according to him is one of the major ways of curtailing global warming and gas emission which causes Climate Change. He presented cartons of energy saving bulbs to be shared amongst the households in the community in line Gov Willie Obiano's efforts to give Anambra State a Climate free Environment tagged, "One Community at a time."
In his on remarks, the team's leader, Engr Ananaba Ephraim C. the
Monitoring & Evaluation, Anambra State focal Officer on NGO/NEWMAP, informed the community that they will soon deliver to them, One hundred and ten (110) species of assorted economic trees which according to him will go a long way in helping to checkmate the climate change and flood. He advised that that trees like Cashew should be planted at the Erosion Site because their roots being so strong will help in minimizing the flow of flood around the Erosion. He also educated the community on one of the best ways of curtailing climate change and massive flooding, which according to him, is tree planting, hence the reason they are making the trees available. He informed the community that Nnewichi is lucky to be among the communities listed as beneficiaries of the trees and the energy saving bulbs, because of the good and smooth relationship existing between ANS-NEWMAP and Hon Melie Onyejepu, who is from the community.
The Chairman of Nnewichi Community Erosion and other related matters committee, Hon Eloka Ubajekwe thanked the Anambra State Govt under the leadership of Akpokuedike Global, Gov Willie Obiano for his loving kindness and generosity towards Nnewichi Community. He also thanked Hon Melie Onyejepu who is one of their own for putting the interest of the community first in all his actions in this present day Anambra State, He recalled that it was the same Hon Melie Onyejepu that singles handedly brought the World Bank in conjunction with the NEWMAP and Anambra State Govt to the Nnewichi Erosion Site.
The energy saving bulbs were distributed to over One Hundred and Twenty (120) households across the whole villages in Nnewichi Community.
Questions and answers session were taken as the community in unionism agreed that the 80% of the economic trees should be planted at the Erosion Site.
The ANS-NEWMAP team are made up of the following Officers:
1. Engr. Ananaba Ephraim C.
( M&E - SFNGO/NEWMAP)
2. Ajulufo Emenike F.
( NATURAL RESOURCES MGT OFFICER)
3. Emeka Achebe
( COMMUNICATION OFFICER NEWMAP)
4. Julius Obidike
( PILOT)

COVID-19 Updates: Obiano Addresses Ndi Anambra for the 13th Time.

Read his speech.....

A Special Broadcast on Covid-19 by the Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Chief Willie Obiano on Wednesday June 10, 2020.

Ndi Anambra ekenem unu-o!

I am here to give you an update on the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic in our dear state. As we are all aware, there is a surge in the incidence of Covid-19 nationwide at the moment. Ndi Anambra, I have repeatedly warned that as we ramp up our testing campaign, the number of Covid-19 cases would go up. It should not surprise anyone therefore that the number of Covid-19 cases has gone up in our dear state with the increased number of testing. Interestingly, that is the pattern of the nationwide spread of the pandemic at this moment in time.

However, as I have assured you in my previous addresses, we have made adequate arrangements to contain the virus in Anambra State. So, I would advise everyone to remain calm. There is no need to panic. If we continue to carry out all the safety measures outlined in the Covid-19 protocol by both the World Health Organization and the Nigerian Center for Disease Control, we shall survive this pandemic.

Update on Cases:

Ndi Anambra, following our Active Search Campaign across the state, we have collected a total of 302 samples so far. Out of this figure, 230 results have been released to us while 72 results are still pending with the NCDC testing center. Out of the 230 results that have been released to us, 53 results returned positive, 13 patients have been discharged, 9 people have passed away while 31 cases are still active. In the meantime, 7 patients are in our Protective Care Center, receiving medical attention.

Ndi Anambra, it is important to note that the medical status of 7 of the 9 patients who died of Covid-19 in this state was confirmed after a postmortem test on them. In other words, they did not come to our Protective Care Center for professional management. This is why I must warn that delay is often dangerous in the management of Covid-19 cases. People who show symptoms of this deadly virus are advised to report their conditions early as it increases their chances of surviving this pandemic.

Umu nnem, I must also inform you that almost 90% of the people that have died from Covid-19 in our state were aged from 60 years and above. It is therefore important that people who fall into this age category who are said to have what the experts call co-mobility, should maintain a high level of vigilance to minimize chances of their exposure to the virus. Ndi Anambra, I must also emphasize that this pandemic does not select its victims based on age. In fact, one of the victims of the virus in this state was only 24 years old. And this is why we must all maintain a high level of vigilance to survive this scourge.

The Covid-19 Law:

Ndi Anambra, I cannot conclude this address without reminding you that the Anambra State Covid-19 and Other Dangerous Diseases Prevention and Eradication Law has come into effect. The Law makes it an offence for anyone to appear in public without wearing a face mask. It is important that we observe this law diligently because it will enhance our chances of surviving the onslaught of this pandemic. Again, we are determined to ensure that anyone who flouts this law will be brought to judgment. Umu nnem, I advise everyone to ensure the strictest compliance with this law.

Our Healthcare Workers:

As we intensify efforts in the on-going Active Case Search Campaign, the increase in positive cases will definitely test the resolve and capacity of our healthcare workers. These people are our first line of defence against this pandemic and we must always reserve a kind word for them. They are putting in a lot of work to ensure that this virus allows our people the chance to breathe. So far, our healthcare workers have justified our confidence in them with their impressive performance. Jisienu ike. Dalunu!

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Umu nnem, onye ndi ilo gbara gburugburu na eche ndu ya nche mgbe dum. The Covid-19 pandemic is an enemy that seeks to surround humanity with its virulent touch. Ndi Anambra only the grace of God and our own eternal vigilance will save us from the onslaught of this pandemic. I have no doubt that if we continue to maintain a high level of vigilance by complying with the standard Covid-19 protocol from the WHO and NCDC, we shall outlive this pandemic.

Jisienu ike!

Unu adakwana mba!
God bless Anambra State
God bless the federal republic of Nigeria.

*Chief Sir. Willie Obiano*
Governor.