₦airaland Forum

The 2024 Teqball World Championship Qualifiers has ended in Aba with Reshedat Salihu and Sampson Funsho of Team Abia emerging victorious in the women doubles of the game.

Reshedat Salihu, who is former African Champion and Victor Oyabede, the Nigeria's current number one Teqball player also emerged victorious and got gold medals in Women Singles and Men Singles respectively.

Speaking at the Aba Sports Club venue of the event, the Abia state governor, Dr. Alex Otti urged all to show interest in Teqball sports as it is one of the ways to keep one's body very fit. He said that though the game is relatively new and a creation of Hungary, it worths playing.

Governor Otti said that Abia state is proud to have been given the hosting right and expressed the interest of the state in hosting the next tournament if given another opportunity.

While congratulating the players from all participating states and officials of the game on their successes, governor Alex Otti appreciated the Hungarian Ambassador to Nigeria for coming to witness the game and appreciated the Teqball Federation of Nigeria for granting Abia the hosting right.

"All are winners, the important thing in a sports like this is to participate. This is a game that is less than 8 years and it is a creation of Hungary."

Also speaking, the Hungarian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Lorand Enderffy commended Governor Alex Otti for promoting sports in Abia saying that such events help in youth development.

He said he is pleased to note that Teqball enjoys popularity among the youths of Nigeria and disclosed that the game was developed in Hungary in 2017. He said that his country has selected 6 Nigerian players who would be traveling to Hungary for training.

In his speech , the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr Nwaobilor Ananaba expressed joy that Abia has qualified to participate in the World Teqball competition and maintained that the successes recorded in the competition amplifies the passion of Abia state in the game.

Mr. Ananaba, who said that the results so far gotten in sports development in the state shows the commitment of governor Alex Otti to develop the state and thanked the President of the Teqball Federation of Nigeria for the hosting right granted Abia.

Contributing, the Vice President, Teqball Federation of Nigeria and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Mr. Ndudi Edede said that they would introduce Teqball in schools as a way of developing the sports.

He thanked governor Otti for his disposition which made the Teqball Federation of Nigeria to find the state worthy of hosting the game.

Other teams and individuals that emerged victorious with gold medals in other categories of the qualifiers game include; the Nigeria number one Teqball player, Victor Oyabede of Team Delta - Male Single , Victor Oyabede and Andrew Ikoko - Male Doubles (Team Delta), Reshedat Salihu - Women Singles (Team Abia) among others.

The event which attracted Commissioners, Mayors of LGAs, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Sports and Youths Development, State Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, sports officials among others featured presentation of awards and trophies to the winners of the various categories of the competition.

Government House Press.
13/07/2024

In a bid to enhance infrastructural development in Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has announced a partnership with the Federal government to reconstruct the Ariam/Usaka Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Road. The Governor made this disclosure during a surprise visit to Christ Embassy in Umuahia on Sunday, July 14th.

Governor Otti addressed the congregation, expressing his commitment to improving the state's infrastructure. He assured the church members and the public that work on the Ikot Ekpene-Ariam/Usaka road Section, extending into Akwa-Ibom State, will commence soon under the collaborative effort with the Federal Government.

"We are partnering with the Federal Government on the Airport project and now on the Ikwuano Road to Akwaibom state," Governor Otti stated, emphasizing hIs administration's dedication to fulfilling his promises to the people of Abia.

The Executive Governor Of Abia State Dr Alex Otti has formally received two Lawmakers who were elected on the platform of the Young Progressive Party(YPP) in 2023 into the Labour Party (LP) during a defection rally organized to receive the two Abia State House of Assembly Lawmakers to the LP in Osisioma Local Government Area.

The lawmakers, Hon Fyne Ahuama Representing Osisioma South and Hon Iheanacho Nwogu representing Osisioma North State Constituency said the they were joining the Labour Party due to the Developmental strides recorded in Abia by Governor Alex Otti in the last one year.

While welcoming them into the Labour Party, Governor assured them of his administration commitment to better the welfare of Abians.

The Executive Governor of Abia state, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti meets with the leadership of organised Labour in Abia State; Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), reassures of his commitment to the welfare of workers.

Against the backdrop of misleading information, Governor Otti says his government has not received any dime from the Federal Government to implement 35,000 Naira wage award for workers in the State but promised to look into the wage award demand of Abia Workers.

Governor Otti stated this during a meeting he held with the leadership of the organized labour in the State. He disclosed that his government will create the Ministry of Labour and Productivity as his government is poised to make minimum changes to the structure of government.

According to him, the new Ministry will have its Commissioner from the Labour fold.

The Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti will on Thursday 11th July 2024 commence the disbursement of Revolving Interest Free Loan to Nine Thousand Two Hundred (9,200) beneficiaries from across the 184 Wards of the State under the umbrella of the Abia State Cooperatives Support Scheme initiated by the Alex Otti led-government.

This first phase will see Fifty (50) beneficiaries each who have been selected from the 184 Wards of the state receive the Revolving Interest Free Loan to assist them in their different businesses.

As part of the ceremony to commence the disbursement billed to take place at the International Conference Centre, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, on Thursday 11th July, 2024, only 5 beneficiaries per ward will be present to avoid a stampede, given the large number of beneficiaries. All the beneficiaries across the 184 Wards will subsequently receive transfer alerts afterwards.

The Launch of the Cooperatives Support Scheme followed a promise made by Governor Alex Otti during his campaign as the Governorship Candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 Governorship election to ensure that Abians, especially rural traders and farmers would be given the necessary finacial Support to boost their business activities as a way of fighting poverty, insecurity and rural-urban migration.

To ensure that the beneficiaries of the Interest Free Loans shall be those who genuinely need them, the state Chief Executive directed that fair and uncompromised selection proceas be done at the ward levels, a directive that was adhered to the fullest.

Ferdinand Ekeoma
Special Adviser to the Governor
Media and Publicity
July 10, 2024.

The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has appointed the following persons into the underlisted positions with effect from the date of this publication.

1. Mr. Gerald Ilukwe, Chief Information Officer

2. Chief Greene Amankwe, Special Adviser, Investment Promotion

3. Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa, SSA, Public Affairs

4. Comrade Onyebuchi Chukwu, Special Assistant, Youth Development

5. Mr. Peter Ekekwe, DGM, ASEPA, Ohafia Zone

6. Dr. (Mrs) Betty Emeka-Obasi, Administrator, Eye Health Mgt Bureau

7. Mr. Chinedu Micheal Nwosu, Special Assistant, Students’ Affairs

SIGNED:
Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.

Abia state government determined to enforce the Treasury Single Account policy put in place by Governor Alex Otti in 2023, has directed all Ministries, Department, and Agencies (MDAs) and Institutions in the state to present their Treasury Single Account clearance papers to qualify for payment of any type of Voucher.

This was made known by the state Accountant General, Dr.Njum Onyemenam, during a workshop her office organized in collaboration with the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue held at Michael Okpara Auditorium Umuahia over the weekend.

She advised Heads of Accounts of the MDAs and government Institutions to key into the TSA and the consolidated Revenue collection system for their interest, adding that henceforth non-compliance will attract withholding of payment of their vouchers by the state government.

The Accountant General said that the TSA was designed to bring all government revenues into one account for transparency, adding that by keying into the system the MDAs and Institutions will have access to the central system for the funding of their expenditures.

In his remarks during the workshop, the Chairman of the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue, professor Udochukwu Ogbonna, said that every payment into the Abia state account must be made through TSA using a bank card, POS, Tellers, and Mobile App.

In his contribution, one of the resource persons during the workshop, Emma Alozie, advised all government employees and other individuals to obtain the Abia state Social Identity Number (ABSSIN) for their transactions and security reasons.

Governor Alex Chioma Otti of Abia state is set to inaugurate the Abia state cooperatives support scheme on Thursday, July 11, 2024. This initiative aims to bolster local micro and small-scale businesses by providing interest -free revolving loans to an estimated 10,000 beneficiaries across various communities. These beneficiaries are members of registered community cooperative groups, focusing primarily on women and young entrepreneurs engaged in sectors such as agriculture, food, petty trading, and local crafts.

Managed by Hon. Ishmael Onuoha, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on cooperatives, the selection process prioritizes those with established businesses that are integral to community development. The program emphasizes economic revilalization at the grassroot level aiming to reignite dormant businesses affected by economic challenges

In a notable recognition of leadership and achievement, His Eminence, the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu,(Eleko of Eko), has voice his admiration for Governor Alex Otti's tenure in Abia state. The Oba a long time friend and associate of Governor Otti warmly welcomed him at his private residence in Lagos, where he expressed profound satisfaction with the Governor's stewardship over the past year.

Governor Alex Otti who recently marked his first year in office, has ganered widespread praise for his transformative initiatives across various sectors of the Abia Economy. The Oba of Lagos clearly impressed by the strides made under Otti's leadership, described his performance as both heartwarming and impressive.

During the meeting, Oba Akiolu conveyed his delight and excitement, commending Governor Otti for his commitment to excellence and urging him to sustain his efforts in delivering quality services to the people of Abia State. He further expressed his intention of visiting Abia State soon to witness firsthand development projects and initiative spearheaded by the Otti's Administration.

Governor Alex Otti Commissions Federal Government Multipurpose Hospital in Abia, Sets Up Facility Management Team to Ensure Sustainability

The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr Alex Otti on Wednesday 3rd July, commissioned a Federal Government built and equipped multipurpose hospital in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of Abia State. The hospital with State of the art equipment was built by the Federal Government in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-3)

Speaking during the commissioning, the Governor maintained that quality, accessible and efficient health sector eco-system is a priority in his administration’s strategy to transform Abia State into a choice destination for Health tourism in Nigeria. He thanked the President, His Excellency, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his commitment to complete and deliver the hospital project in Abia. Dr. Otti reminded the gathering that his administration has demonstrated seriousness and commitment to quality healthcare delivery by allocating 15% of her 2024 budget to healthcare in line with the highly ambitious undertaking in 2001 by African Heads of States and Governments codenamed 'The Abuja Declaration' to encourage and challenge African leaders to allocate at least 15% of their annual budget to healthcare delivery.

Governor Otti reiterated that the Federal Government's SDG multipurpose hospital is in sync with the cardinal objectives of his Government to guarantee access to quality healthcare delivery.

In his remarks, “So what the Federal Government has done here is consistent with the objectives of my Government and I want to thank you for also drawing our attention to some of the sustainable development goals particularly the SDG-3 which targets to reduce maternal and infant mortality rate to 70 per 100,000 by the year 2030.

Dr. Otti further stated, thus, “Our Government is deliberate, intentional and focused on healthcare delivery. It is also our intention that by the time this Government would be winding down, we would be handing over to posterity a medical village where everything needed to handle all medical cases is available".

“Your Excellency, let me thank you for delivering this project and assure you that the State Government will take over the management like you have graciously offered us. We will provide additional land for you to build the doctors’ quarters like you have graciously requested. In the next 24 Hours, the Mayor of Ugwunagbo LGA will set-up a Facility Management Team to ensure that everything will remain standard and up and running in the facility. The facility management team will be liaising with him directly for their needs. I have already given approval, even if there are things that have not been done, we will complete them and ensure that this hospital is put to use immediately”, Governor Otti declared.

Governor Otti also ordered his Chief Security Officers to provide 24/7 security for the Hospital. He thanked the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals and Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Her Excellency, Princess (Dr.) Adegoke Orelope-Adefulire, OFR, for renaming the hospital from Mother and Child Hospital to Multipurpose Hospital to accommodate the provision of care to men. He also commended her commitment in ensuring that the project was completed as some projects were started but never completed.

Earlier in her Speech, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goal, Her Excellency, Princess (Dr.) Adegoke Orelope-Adefulire, OFR, said that the Hospital was initially designed as Mother and Child Hospital but that she had to change it to Multipurpose Hospital to accommodate the men who also deserve quality and affordable healthcare.

“I just whispered to the Governor this Morning that I decided to change it to Multipurpose Hospital when I got to Abia State yesterday just because if it is limited to mother and child, then it means that our fathers; the men, will not have business coming to this hospital. So, the only man or men that you would see here will be doctors. Looking at this gathering, I can see many men, our fathers, that would require treatment and support which further inspired us to change the name to accommodate the men and I am sure that I have the Governor's approval". Dr. Orelope-Adefulire said.

Dr. Orelope-Adefulire disclosed that the cause of the delay in handing over the project to the State was due to the transition between the present administration and the last administration.

She commended Governor Otti for the great job he is doing in Abia State and urged the people to continue to support their Governor so that he will continue to do more. The Occasion was graced by the First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilia Chidinma Otti ably represented by the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency, Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba PhD, the Mayors of Ugwunagbo LGA, Chief Nnosike Ihesiaba, Dr. Elelenta Nwabuisi Elelenta (Isialangwa South), Engr. Israel C. Nweke (Osisioma), Uchechukwu Nwogu (Aba South), and Chief Eric Egwuibe (Obingwa). Traditional Rulers, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Chief Executive Officer, Hospital Management Board and a host of other dignitaries came to witness the commissioning.

Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.
03-07-2024

Dani Joy International Schools, Umuahia.

Address: Onyerubi Close, off House of Assembly Road, Umuahia, Abia State. For more enquiries 0708 998 0871 or 0703 805 4488.

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We are committed to Academic Excellence

Hon Ezenwa Igwe, Founder of Ezenwa Igwe (Triple C) Foundation Worldwide Takes Free Medical Outreach to Agoi Ekpo and Nko Communities in Cross River State

...Donates Gift Items to Women and School Children

The founder of Ezenwa Igwe (Triple C) foundation worldwide, Hon Ezenwa Igwe through his noble foundation has continued to show genuine and massive love for the people by embarking on a free medical outreach/empowerment program to the people of Agoi Ekpo and Nko Communities in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Rendering his speeches at the events held at Agoi Ekpo Chieftaincy Roundabout and Nko Village Square respectively, Hon Ezenwa Igwe said he is particularly delighted seeing the people troop out en masse to the venues of the free medical outreach/empowerment program.

Hon Igwe reiterated that his sole motive and objective is to lift lives and change the old narrative of unreliable politicians using such free medical outreach and empowerment program as a leverage to deceive the unsuspecting public.

He further enumerated that he will bring massive development to the people especially the youths and women through his foundation which have been recognized globally.

Finally he made a firm promise that many lives in the communities will be positively impacted reassuring the people of his commitment to make life easier for them going forward.

Ezenwa Igwe Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organization with a mission to enhance dignity of human life by promoting good health and building economic capacities especially for the youths and women in the rural communities of South-East and South-South Nigeria.

The team of Doctors, Nurses and Health workers were stationed at the venues of the free medical outreach/empowerment program as they offered medical consultation and treatment to the people of the communities.

The elderly men and women, as well as children were given free medical tests and treatment, medical consultations and health talks, educational materials and other gift items were distributed to students and women of the community.

Speaking at his palace, the Traditional Ruler of the Agoi Ekpo Community, Atta Mike Oyira commended Hon Ezenwa Igwe for the philanthropic interventions to his people describing him as rare gift to this generation, the reverend traditional ruler reiterated that the Free Medical Outreach/Empowerment Programme brought to them by the Ezenwa Igwe foundation worldwide is the first of its kind in the community.

Finally he prayed that God continue to lift and bless him in all his endeavours.

At Nko community, Chief Okili Manbo, Ntong of Nko, conferred a chieftaincy title on Hon Ezenwa Igwe as a worthy son and brother of the community, special prayers was offered for him by the caucus of the traditional institution in the area.

Recall that the foundation, few weeks ago replicated same gesture to the people of Ariam Usaka in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.

Courtsey: Media Unit, Ezenwa Igwe (Triple C) Foundation Worldwide.

At Commissioning of Plater Grillz Lounge, Restaurant, Cinema and Kids Arena, Abia Speaker Calls on Investors to Take Advance of Abia's Friendly Business Environment

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, and the Peoples Democratic Party flagbearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the forthcoming 2023 general elections, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji MNSE has called on Abians both home and abroad in particular and Nigerians in general to take advantage of the business friendly environment of the state to invest in her.

The Speaker made the call on Friday, 2nd December, 2022, during the commissioning of Plater Grillz lounge, restaurant, cinema and kids arena located at No 92 Azikiwe road, Umuahia North LGA of Abia State.

The Speaker who was welcomed to Plater Grillz arena by the Chief Executive Officer of the facility, Chief Ernest Ugochukwu Edozie, extolled him for thinking it wise to invest in the State thereby creating employees for youths of the locality, he said the exquisite nature of the facility and the international standard of the interiors made it stand out as one of the best in the state.

He urged Abians to emulate the step taken by Chief Ernest Ugochukwu Edozie by taking advantage of the favourable business climate in the state to invest at home. While also imploring the youths to pursue self-reliance driven by the desire to start up small enterprises, saying this would also help to enhance productivity in the state, the Speaker described the performance of MSMEs in the state as evidently impactful. He assured that the Abia State House of Assembly under his leadership is committed to keep making laws that will continue to improve business operations and keep attracting investments into the state.

Responding, the Chief Executive Officer of Plater Grillz lounge, restaurant and cinema thanked the Speaker for his presence at the event, saying his decision to site the facility at home was borne out of the desire to invest in the state, create employment opportunities for the youths and serve as an inspiration to them.

The Chief Executive Officer of Plater Grillz Arena, Chief Ernest Ugochukwu Edozie, conducted the Speaker round the facility.

✍: Ikechukwu Kelvin Okorie

Founder of Ezenwa Igwe foundation worldwide (Triple C), Hon Ezenwa Igwe Clears Outstanding Hospital Bill of Mrs Chidinma Christopher.

...The new face of Abia Youths at it again!

The founder of Ezenwa Igwe foundation worldwide, Hon Ezenwa Igwe yesterday cleared the outstanding hospital bills of Mrs Chidinma Christopher, an indigene of Avonkwu Ibeku in Umuahia North LGA, who was diagnosed of inguinal hernia, she had a surgery at Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy Specialist Hospital, Ahiaeke but couldn't be discharged because of financial constraints.

Hon Ezenwa Igwe got to know about the case of Mrs Chidinma Christopher when the patient's mother, Mrs Elizabeth approached and intimated him at Obogwu community hall, venue of the Ezenwa Igwe foundation free medical outreach/empowerment program held in Ariam Usaka few weeks ago.

Hon Ezenwa Igwe promised Mrs Elizabeth that when necessary details about the patient is gathered that he will do the needful.

So, yesterday, on the directives of our President, Hon Ezenwa Igwe, i visited Mrs Chidinma Christopher at the hospital, cleared all the accumulated and outstanding hospital bills which necessitated her discharge from the hospital, the foundation also donated some money to Mrs Christopher to enable her take care of her personal needs.

One of our medics at Ezenwa Igwe foundation worldwide, Nurse Opuruiche accompanied me to the hospital.

EZENWA IGWE FOUNDATION WORLDWIDE; WE ARE RESHAPING AND LIFTING LIVES!

#LikeIkukuLikeEzenwa
#TwoLikeMinds

Hon Ezenwa Igwe, Founder of Triple C Foundation Worldwide Takes Free Medical Outreach to his Immediate Community

...Donates Gift Items to Women and School Children

The founder of Triple C foundation worldwide, Hon Ezenwa Igwe through his noble foundation has shown genuine love for his people by embarking on a free medical outreach/empowerment program to them.

Rendering his speech at the event held at Obogwu community hall, Ariam Usaka in Ikwuano Local Government Area, Hon Ezenwa Igwe said he is particularly delighted seeing his people troop out en masse to the venue of the free medical outreach.

Hon Igwe reiterated that his sole motive and objective is to lift lives and change the old narrative of unreliable politicians using such free medical outreach and empowerment program as a leverage to deceive the unsuspecting public.

He further enumerated that he will bring massive development to his people especially the youths and women through his foundation which have been recognized globally.

Finally he made a firm promise that many lives in the community will be positively impacted reassuring his people of his commitment to make life easier for them.

Ezenwa Igwe Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organization with a mission to enhance dignity of human life by promoting good health and building economic capacities for youths and women in the rural communities of South-East Nigeria.

The team of Doctors, nurses and health workers were stationed at Obogwu community hall as they offered medical consultation and treatment to the people of the community.

The elderly men and women, as well as children were given free medical tests and treatment, medical consultations and health talks, educational materials and other gift items were distributed to students and women of the community.

Speaking at his palace, HRH Eze Ambrose Nwagu, Nwachimere 1 of Ugwuegbu Autonomous Community, commended Hon Ezenwa Igwe for his numerous philanthropic interventions to his people describing him as rare gift to this generation.

The reverend traditional ruler further thanked Hon Igwe for the palliative works he carried out on Ariam Usaka ring road which has been in a very bad shape before his intervention.

Finally he prayed that God continue to lift and bless him in all his endeavours.

Hon Ezenwa Igwe was accompanied to the medical outreach/empowerment program by his foreign partners.

Hon Ezenwa Igwe is the coordinator of the Speaker's youth campaign council in Ikwuano Local Government Area.

Courtsey: Media Unit, Triple C Foundation Worldwide.

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji earlier today attended the funeral service of Late Sir Micah E. Onyebuchi KJW which held at Amuzukwu Girls Secondary School Field, Amuzukwu Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.

The Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr Samuel Uche JP, PMCN delivered the sermon.

Dignitaries that graced the funeral service include, the Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Ude Oko Chukwu, the immediate past Governor of the State and Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Chief Theodore Ahamefule Orji CON and his wife and a host of others.

The deceased, Late Sir Micah Ezejinkeya Onyebuchi who died at the age of 90 years is survived by his wife, Lady Felicia Ihekerenma Onyebuchi, five children including the Chief Medical Director of Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Sir Professor Azubuike Kanario Onyebuchi, and other relations.

Recall that the Speaker had on the 12th of July, 2022, paid a condolence visit to the bereaved family.

✍: Ikechukwu Kelvin Okorie

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly and the Peoples Democratic Party flagbearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the forthcoming 2023 general elections, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji on Monday, 17th October, 2022, paid a courtesy visit on Mr Frank Sopuruchi Okpokiri at his country home in Emede Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.

Speaking during the visit, the Speaker said he appreciates the sincere love and unflinching support from Mr Frank Sopuruchi Okpokiri.

The Speaker said he will continue to sustain the legacies of progress and promised to do more for the people.

He urged the people of Emede Ibeku to be firm believers and followers of Mr Frank Sopuruchi Okpokiri, describing him as a golden gift to them.

Earlier in his speech, Mr Frank Sopuruchi Okpokiri said he was particularly delighted to host one of the finest politician in the country, and that it has been his earnest desire to work assiduously with the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji because of his indelible contributions to the growth and development of the people especially the youths.

Mr Frank Sopuruchi Okpokiri further extolled the Speaker for his tremendous positive impact on the people especially with his Direct Touch Initiative. He thanked the Speaker for his numerous projects scattered around his immediate constituency and beyond.

While promising to keep supporting the Speaker in all his political aspirations, Mr Sopuruchi prayed God to continue to sustain him.

Recall that on Tuesday, 6th October 2022, Mr Frank Sopuruchi Okpokiri donated Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla cars to the Speaker in company of some of his friends and associates, in his speech, Mr Okpokiri said he was inspired to donate the cars to Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji because of his exemplary generousity to the people, a virtue he said he has copied from the Speaker and decided to do to him what he has been doing for others because 'he who waters deserves to be watered'.

He thanked the Speaker for being a light to the people and for his public-spirited leadership qualities which he said has elevated governance in the State.

In his vote of thanks, a former deputy transition chairman of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Hon Ugochukwu Ibe, thanked Mr Sopuruchi for being an ardent believer in the Speaker and commended him for his zeal and enthusiasm in things that concern him. He urged him to continue giving his unalloyed support to the Speaker who he described as a gift to this generation.

The Peoples Democratic Party flag bearers for Umuahia Central and Umuahia East State Constituencies respectively, Pastor Ugochukwu Uchegbu and Hon Kelechi Nwakodo, the Speaker's coordinator, youths Campaign Council for Ikwuano LGA and the founder of Triple C foundation worldwide, Hon Ezenwa Igwe, the youths representative in the Speaker's Campaign Council, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo, the Director of Door to Door Sensitization Campaign Team for Ikukuoma, Hon Uzodinma Derek Ugele and others dignitaries accompanied the Speaker on the visit.

✍: Ikechukwu kelvin Okorie

In other to alleviate the suffering of the Ariam Usaka indigenes orchestrated by bad state of Araim Usaka ring road, the Speaker's coordinator youths campaign council for Ikwuano Local Government Area and the founder of Triple C foundation worldwide, Hon Ezenwa Igwe has embarked on palliative works on the road.

Hon Ezenwa Igwe attended the formal inauguration ceremony of Ariam Ward campaign council for the Speaker on Sunday, 16th, October, 2022, felt really uneasy due to the bad state of the Ariam Usaka ring road which has hindered the indigenes of the area from bringing out their farm produce for sale.

This is indeed wonderful and worth commending.

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly and the Peoples Democratic Party flagbearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the forthcoming 2023 general elections, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji yesterday paid a courtesy visit on Mr Francis Chibuike Chilaka at his residence in Asaba Street, Umuahia North LGA.

Speaking during the visit, the Speaker said he appreciates the sincere love and support from Mr Francis Chibuike Chilaka.

The Speaker said he will continue to sustain the legacies of progress and promised to do more for the people.

Earlier in his speech, Mr Francis Chibuike Chilaka said he was particularly delighted to host one of the finest politician in the country, and that it has been his earnest desire to meet with the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji.

Mr Francis Chibuike Chilaka extolled the Speaker for his tremendous positive impact on the people especially with his Direct Touch Initiative. He thanked the Speaker for his numerous projects scattered around Urban Ward Three, he said there is no area in the Urban area that haven't felt positive impact of the Speaker.

While promising to keep supporting the Speaker in all his political aspirations, Mr Chilaka prayed God to continue to sustain him.

In his vote of thanks, Chief Obewe thanked Mr Chilaka for being an ardent believer in the Speaker and commended him for his zeal and enthusiasm in things that concern him. He urged him to continue giving his unalloyed support to the Speaker who he described as a gift to this generation.

The Speaker's coordinator of Ikukuoma's youths campaign council for Ikwuano Local Government Area and the founder of Triple C foundation worldwide, Hon Ezenwa Igwe had an interactive session with leaders and members of Amazon Ladies of Ikwuano LGA.

In his speech, Hon Ezenwa Igwe thanked the ladies for coming to identify with him, saying he was particularly delighted to be with them because women are the foundation of every political and home setting.

Hon Igwe reiterated that his sole motive why he ventured into politics is to seek for good governance for the people and not for any monetary reward from the government hence the reason he has been reaching out to relevant stakeholders to make sure the people are positively impacted.

He harped on the need for the ladies to support credible and reliable in the forthcoming elections, he asked the women to come up with creative ideas and innovations so he can know the best areas to empower them through his foundation.

Finally he urged them to be ambassadors and messengers of the Ikukuoma's project because the Speaker has done excellently well both in legislation and in delivering quality dividends of democracy to the people.

Responding, the leader of the forum Comrade Nwokedi Adaugo Elizabeth thanked Hon Ezenwa Igwe for his steering qualities, resilience and support to the women of Ikwuano LGA especially on the area of empowering and encouraging them in their various fields.

She said the Amazon Ladies of Ikwuano have resolved to work assiduously for the Speaker so he will emerge victorious at the forthcoming polls because he has shown love and unflinching support to the women.

The Speaker's campaign council in Ariam Usaka, Ikwuano LGA have been inaugurated, speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Coordinator of Ikukuoma's Youths Campaign Council in Ikwuano Local Government Area and the founder of Triple C foundation worldwide, Hon Ezenwa Igwe congratulated the newly inaugurated members and charged them to be decorous in the discharge of the task assigned to them.

Hon Igwe said the electioneering period is here again and the people Ariam Usaka should be forerunners in the political alignment and realignment in Ikwuano and in the state.

He advised the people to shun petty politics where insincere politicians will come to shortchange them by exchanging their legitimate rights for paltry sum of money.

The founder of Triple C foundation worldwide further urged his people to support only credible candidates, people that will bring massive development to them when elected intoo office.

Hon Ezenwa Igwe described the Speaker as a man with impeccable track records whose effective representation and leadership over the years have yielded positive results to the people especially the youths.

"The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji who we all know is the Peoples Democratic Party flag bearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency election is a man we should entrust our collective support because he has been reaching out and supporting the people over the years, he is also a vibrant and upright politicain who have the interest of the people at heart, so it is morally right that we work for him so his ambition to represent us at the Green Chambers will come to fulfilment" Hon Igwe enumerated.

Finally he said all hands must be on deck so the Speaker will be delivered in all polling units in Ariam Usaka, promising that everyone will be duly recognised and rewarded.

A former Chairman of Ikwuano Local Government Area, Hon Dom Onwuzuruigbo and other Peoples Democratic Party chieftains in Ariam Usaka attended the inauguration event.

2023: Youths Director General of Ikukuoma's Campaign Council Inaugurates Umuahia North Youths Campaign Council

It was a electrifying atmosphere yesterday as the Youths Director in the Speaker's campaign council, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo led other members of the noble group to inaugurate the Youths Campaign Council in Umuahia North Local Government Area.

Welcoming the members of the Umuahia North Youths Campaign Council at the event held at Umuawa Alaocha Civic Hall, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo said he was particularly delighted with the large turnout of the youths in the area which simply depicts the acceptability of Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji by the people of Umuahia North Local Government Area.

He urged them to be decorous in the discharge of their task to ensure the aim of the inaugurated campaign council was fully realized, he admonished them to be sincere ambassadors and messengers of the Ikukuoma's project because the Speaker has done excellently well both in legislation and in delivering dividends of democracy to the people through his DIRECT TOUCH INITIATIVE PROGRAM.

He urged them to focus on the core motives which they were inaugurated and shun politics of clannishness because the approach to politics today is purely based on capacity and what an aspirant vying for a political office have to offer which the Speaker is a primary example.

Addressing the mammoth crowd that thronged the venue, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo thanked them immensely for coming to show solidarity for the Speaker, he said the Speaker has shown genuine love to the people of Umuahia North Local Government Area by siting gigantic projects in the area hence the reason they should all support him in his noble ambition to represent the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia at the Green Chambers.

Hon Apugo promised that the mini stadium at Williams Memorial Secondary School, Afugiri, attracted by the Speaker will be commissioned by December and a football competition fully sponsored by the Speaker will be kicked off soon.

On his part, the Coordinator of Ikukuoma's Youths Campaign Council in Umuahia North Local Government Area, Hon Emeka Elias Ihedioha expressed gratitude to the Speaker for giving him the opportunity to serve. He said the excellent reputation of the Speaker makes campaigning for him very easy and pleasant knowing that the people already love him as a leader.

Hon Elias Emy who was unavoidably absent but was ably represented by Mr Okechukwu Innocent Oguagbalam enumerated the numerous works and achievements of the Speaker especially in the area of lifting the youths to positions of respect and relevance.

He charged the newly inaugurated members that the sole objective in their ranks is to work assiduously and ensure that the Speaker emerges victorious at the forthcoming polls.

Finally, he promised that he will bring his wealth of experience in making sure that the Speaker is elected as the next member to represent the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia at the Federal House of Representatives.

In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Chairman of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Hon Bob Agbugba (Abomark) congratulated the newly inaugurated members and charged them to be active participants in the Ikukuoma project because the Speaker has done so much especially for the people of Ohuhu, he also counselled them on the need to shun politics of clannishness.

Afterwards, the Youths Director of Ikukuoma's Campaign Council and the Coordinator of Ikukuoma's Youths Campaign Council in Ikwuano Local Government respectively, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo and Hon Ezenwa Igwe led other members of the youths campaign council to Nkwoegwu market where the people were sensitized on why the Speaker is the most qualified candidate to represent the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives.

The Youths Campaign Council were specially welcomed to the market by Ndi Ome Udo (Isi - Ahia) of Okaiuga Nkwoegwu.

The Labour Party candidate for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the forthcoming 2023 general elections, Obi Aguocha has berated the Abia State Government, tagging it a total failure.

Obi Aguocha made the statement earlier today at Eziokwu Bu Ndu New Yam Festival cum community development event held at Chief Dr Smart O. Nwokorie's compound, Dim na Opara Ogbodi-Ukwu, Umuopara, Umuahia South LGA of Abia State.

Chief Aguocha lambasted the Abia State government for what he described as gross maladministration, emphasising that the state has witnessed total decay in infrastructure since their reign.

He urged the people to support the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party, Dr Alex Otti as he is the better candidate to liberate the state from the shackles of bad governance orchestrated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the State.

Those at the event include aspirants vying for different political positions in the state including the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) gubernatorial candidate, Bishop Ndukwe Onuoha, the Representative of the Labour Party gubernatorial candidate, Dr Alex Otti, Chief Enyinnaya Onyekwere, Chief Emeka Inyamah, Hon Max Adindu and a host of other dignitaries.

As the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji was able to achieve this, the right thing to do is just to give him our unflinching support so he can go to Abuja and bring more development to the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia.

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly and the Peoples Democratic Party flag bearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the forthcoming 2023 general elections, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji is UNARGUABLY the BEST HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY MEMBER in the Federation.

We ride through some of his achievements over the years, the astute Lawmaker has done excellently well in the areas of Legislative and Oversight Functions, Providing basic social amenities to the people through his Direct Touch Initiative Program and Empowerment Programmes (targeted towards lifting the youths) and many more.

PROJECTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE SPEAKER OF ABIA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, RT HON ENGR CHINEDUM ENYINNAYA ORJI (1)

***LEGISLATIVE STRIDES***

Bills which the 7th Abia State House of Assembly under the leadership of Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji has passed include but not limited to the following:

1. H.A. B 1: The Abia State House of Assembly Service Commission, 16th July 2019✅️
This is to promote the true Independence of the Legislature as practised in advanced democracy

2. H.A.B. 3: The Abia State Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law 2019, 3rd December, 2019✅️

3. H.A.B. 4: The Abia State University Teaching Hospital Management Board Bill 2019, 17th November, 2020✅️

4. H.A.B. 5: The Abia State Donor Agency Trust Fund, 10th February, 2020✅️

5. H.A.B. 6: The Abia State Consumer Protection Agency Law 2019, 17th November, 2020✅️

6. H.A.B. 8: The Abia State of Nigeria 2019 Supplementary Appropriation Law, 10th December, 2019✅️

7. H.A.B 9: Local Government Councils of Abia State Appropriation Law 2019, 10th December, 2019✅️

8. H.A.B. 10: The Local Government Health Authorities of Abia State Appropriation Law 2019, 24th December, 2019✅️

9. H.A.B. 11: The Abia State of Nigeria 2020 Appropriation Law, 24th December, 2019✅️

10. H.A.B. 13: The Abia State Orientation Agency Law, 4th January, 2020✅️

11. H.A.B. 16: The Abia State Agency for Free Home Healthcare Services for the Elderly, 17th November, 2020✅️

12. H.A.B. 17: The Abia State Security Fund, 23rd March, 2020✅️

13. H.A.B. 18: The Abia State of Nigeria 2020 Local Government Councils Approriation Bill for a By-Law, 17th November, 2020✅️

14. H.A.B 21: The Abia State Diaspora Commission Law, 22nd March, 2021✅️

15. H.A.B. 30: The Abia State Water and Sewage Development Law, 16th March, 2021✅️

16. H.A.B. 34: The Abia State of Nigeria Supplementary Apprpropriation Law 2020, 7th December, 2020✅️

17. H.A.B. 37: The Abia State of Nigeria 2021 Appropriation Law, 29th December, 2020✅️

18. H.A.B. 41: The Abia State Audit Law 2021 (A Law to Provide for the Appointment of a State Auditor General and an Auditor General for Local Governments in Abia State), 28th June, 2021✅️

19. H.A.B. 42: Abia State Judiciary Fund Management Law, 2021, 5th July, 2021✅️

20. H.A.B. 49: Abia State Government of Nigeria Supplementary Law 2021, 22nd March, 2021✅️

21. H.A.B. 57: A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Fifth Alteration of the 1999 Constitution, 8th June, 2022✅️

22. H.A.B. 14: The Abia State Marketing and Quality Management Agency Law 2019✅️

23. The Abia State Homeland Security Watch Law 2020✅️

24. H.A.B 23: The Bill for a Law to Establish the Abia State Commission for Disabled Persons Law, 31st August, 2022✅️

Other Bills being considered by the Assembly and which are at various points of completion are:

24. H.A.B. 12: The Abia State Electricity Power Authority (ABSEPA) and Power Stations Bill, 2019

25. H.A.B. 15: The Abia State Number Plate Production Authority Bill 2019

26. H.A.B 24: The Abia State Industrial Cluster Establishment Bill 2020 (A Bill to Establish Industrial Clusters in the three Senatorial Districts of Abia State)

27. H.A.B. 28: The Abia State Public Procurement (Amendment No 1) Bill 2020 (A Bill for a Law to Amend the Abia State Public Procurement Law No 5 of 2012)

28. H.A.B. 29: The Abia State Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Abolition and Prohibition) Bill 2020

29. H.A.B. 36: The Abia State Watershed Management Bill 2021

30. H.A.B. 38: The Abia State Safety Management and Building Control Agency Bill 2021

31. H.A.B. 43: The Abia State Registration of Industries Operational Permit Bill

32. H.A.B. 45: The Abia State Debt Management Office Bill 2021

33. H.A.B. 46: A Bill for a Law to Establish the Abia State Education for Employment Agency

34. H.A.B. 51: A Bill for a Law to Provide for the Establishment of Abia State Economic Planning Board

35. H.A.B. 53: A Bill for the Establishment of the Abia State University of Medical and Health Management Technology.

36. H.A.B. 55: The Abia State Tele-Health Care Agency Bill 2022

37. H.A.B. 56: The Abia State Food Banks Bill 2022

There are several other Bills and Motions of great impact on the people by the 7th Abia State House of Assembly that we will publish in the next part of this publication.

For example, in the heat of the then seemingly intractable border crisis between the people of Arochukwu LGA and their neighbours from Biase and Odukpani LGAs in Cross River State which always left several dead, the Abia State House of Assembly on the 16th of March, 2020, dispatched a high powered delegation led by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Ifeanyi Uchendu to meet with relevant government functionaries including members of the Cross River State House of Assembly with a view to finding a lasting solution to the crisis.

The journey saw the delegation also meeting with the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Prof Ijemot Evara Esu who also doubled as the chairman of the State's Peace and Conflict Resolution body.

A strongly worded communique appealing to the warring communities was issued at the end of the meeting with other practical steps taken to ensure the restoration of peace to the areas, and it has remained so till date, thereby saving lives that would have ordinarily been lost if the Assembly had not intervened.

One doesn't need to look too hard to see the importance of these Laws passed by the Abia State House of Assembly under the leadership of Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji as they concern security, job creation, promotion of democratic principles and ideals, protection of the fundamental human rights of citizens, youth empowerment among other dividends of democracy to the people.

There are also several Motions and oversight functions of the Assembly on the Executive that have also yielded positive results for the people.

We shall be looking at these and more in our subsequent writings.

***LIST OF DRILLED AND RETICULATED WATER BOREHOLES***

1. World Bank Estate, Health Centre Road, water project

2. Finbarrs Road water project

3. Umuagom water project

4. Amaokwe Ugba water project

5. School road primary school water project

6. Amuzukwu Mbaraukwu water project

7. Orie Ogwu Okwulaga Afaraukwu water project

8. Amuzukwu Girl's Secondary School water project

9. Ohobo Afaraukwu water project

10. World Bank primary school water project

11. Methodist primary school, Umuwaya road water project

12. Umuobasi Ugba water project

13. Union primary school, Afaraukwu water project

14. Awolowo Street by Okigwe road, Urban Ward 3 water project

15. Ugwunchara primary school, Urban Ward 3 water project

16. Saint Stephen's, Urban Ward 2 water project

17. Ohokobe Enyiukwu water project

18. Umuohu Ndume water project

19. Mission Hill water project

20. War Museum junction water project

21. Afara correctional Centre water project

22. Holy Rosary Girl's Secondary School water project

23. Agbama Housing Estate water project

***MINI STADIUMS*** ( Note that all the mini stadiums are 98% completed )

1. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity @ St Stephen's Urban School II

2. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity at St William's Memorial Secondary School, Afugiri

3. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity @ Umuabali Primary School, Umuopara

4. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity @ Ubakala Primary School, Old Umuahia

5. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity opposite Santa Crux Secondary School, Olokoro, Umuahia

6. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity at Ikwuano Local Government Headquarters

7. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity at Ariam Usaka, Ikwuano LGA

8. A mini stadium of 1,000 capacity @ Isieke Community Model High school, Isieke Ibeku

***ROAD PROJECTS ***

1. Afaraukwu Road

2. Amuzukwu Internal roads

3. Amuzukwu Umuokoo Road

4. Umueze Road

5. Ugba Road

6. Amuzukwu to Umuezeagwu Road

7. Umuezearota Road

8. Umuwaya Mbaraukwu Link Road

Note: All road projects are fully completed

***RENOVATION AND RECONSTRUCTION OF SCHOOLS***

1. Ugba Primary School

2. Urban Mission Hill Nursery/Primary School.

3. Union Primary School, Afara

4. School Road Primary School

5. Saint Stephen's Primary School (Perimeter fencing and classroom blocks)

6. World Bank Primary School

7. Amuzukwu Girls' Secondary School

8. School of the Blind, Afara

9. Urban Primary School 2

10. Ugwunchara Primary School

11. Umuwaya Primary School

12. City Nursery/Primary School

13. Saint Michael's Primary School

14. Methodist Girls' High School

15. Afara Techincal School

16. Amuzukwu primary school

***ELECTRIC TRANSFORMERS INSTALLED FOR VARIOUS COMMUNITIES***

1. Isieke Ibeku

2. MbaraUkwu Amuzukwu

3. Saint Stephen's Cathedral

4. Umuobasi Ugba

5. Nkata Ibeku

6. Ubakala Street

7. Uwalaka Street by Enugu Road

8. Igbo Street by Uzuakoli Road

9. UmuUkwu

***MEDICAL***

1. Free Eye/Medical Outreach

2. World Bank Health Centre

***ABIA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY***

1. Renovation of House of Assembly Complex

EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMMES

***FREE ICT TRAINING OF ABIA YOUTHS***

1. Over 500 youths trained and 1500 youths undergoing training in the following ICT departments :

✅Website Development

✅Graphics Design

✅Digital Marketing

✅Computer Appreciation

✅Mobile Application Development

2.Scholarships were awarded to indigent students

3. Start-up capital were given to young entrepreneurs

4. MSME operators were empowered with needed work tools like Power Generating Sets, Barbing Kits, Grinding Machines, Hairdressing equipment etc

5. Vehicles and Tricycles were also gifted to youths as Empowerment items

6. Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji has given out several Toyota Sienna minivans to various youths and leaders of Umuahia Central State Constituency and beyond.

PROJECTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE SPEAKER OF ABIA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, RT HON ENGR CHINEDUM ENYINNAYA ORJI (2)

1. Six-room convenience facility, and water borehole drilled and reticulated at Obioma Quarters, Umuagu

2. Electrification Project at Palm Lane Extension, Urban Ward 3

3. Over 100 indigent students of Umuahia Central State Constituency awarded scholarship to University level

4. Over 400 youths on the payroll of the Speaker

5. Methodist Church Primary School water project

6. Electric Transformer installed at
a. Umuezearota Amuzukwu
b. Electric Transformer installed at Ahiaeke Ibeku

7. Refurbishment of Dysfunctional Electric Transformers at
a. Awolowo Street by Owerri Road
b. Kaduna Street by Umuwaya Road
c. Item street by Niger Road
d. Isieke
e. Ugba na Nkata

8. School block and water project at School of the Blind, AfaraUkwu

Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly and the PDP flagbearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the 2023 general elections, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji, has received car donations from another concerned Abian, Mr Frank Sopuruchi Okpokiri who is based in Turkey.

Presenting the Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla cars to the Speaker in company of some of his friends and associates, the Ibeku-born Mr Okpokiri said he was inspired to donate the cars to Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji because of his exemplary generousity to the people, a virtue he said he has copied from the Speaker and decided to do to him what he has been doing for others because 'he who waters deserves to be watered'.

He thanked the Speaker for being a light to the people and for his public-spirited leadership qualities which he said has elevated governance in the State.

Reacting, an obviously elated Speaker said he was pleasantly surprised by the donations from Mr Okpokiri and for the kind words he volunteered towards him as he is used mostly only to giving. While thanking the donor for the gesture, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji urged him to take his generousity a notch further by being generous to the poor, the needy and the vulnerable in the society without forgetting his family and friends. That way, the Speaker continued, life becomes more pleasant for all and sundry while he receives the rewards of a generous man.

While praying for him and wishing him well in his endeavours, the Speaker admonished Mr Okpokiri to remain focused and not allow himself to be distracted by things of no value.

The Direcctor of Youth Mobilisation on the Speaker's Campaign Council, Mr Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo, the Director, Ikuku Oma Door-To-Door Movement, Hon Uzodinma Derek Ugele were among others present at the short ceremony.

It was a charged atmosphere today as the Youths Director in the Speaker's campaign council, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo led other members of the noble group to inaugurate the Youths Campaign Council in Ikwuano Local Government Area.

Welcoming the members of the Ikwuano Youths Campaign Council, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo said he was overwhelmed with the large turnout of the youths in the area which simply depicts the acceptability of Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji by the people of Ikwuano Local Government Area.

He urged them to be decorous in the discharge of their task to ensure the aim of the inaugurated campaign council was fully realized, he admonished them to be ambassadors and messengers of the Ikukuoma's project because the Speaker has done excellently well both in legislation and in delivering dividends of democracy to the people through his DIRECT TOUCH INITIATIVE PROGRAM.

Hon Apugo congratulated the newly inaugurated members and wished them well.

Addressing the mammoth crowd that thronged the venue, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo thanked them immensely for coming to show solidarity for the Speaker, he said the Speaker has shown genuine love to the people of Ikwuano by citing two gigantic projects in the area hence the reason they should all support him in his noble ambition to represent the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia at the Green Chambers.

He promised that the two mini stadiums at Ikwuano Local Government Area headquarters and at Araim Usaka Community School attracted by the Speaker will be commissioned by December this year.

On his part, the Coordinator of Ikukuoma's Youths Campaign Council in Ikwuano Local Government Area and the founder of Triple C Foundation, Hon Ezenwa Igwe expressed gratitude to the Speaker for giving him the opportunity to serve. He said the excellent reputation of the Speaker makes campaigning for him very easy and pleasant knowing that the people already love him as a leader.

Hon Ezenwa Igwe enumerated the numerous works and achievements of the Speaker especially in the area of lifting the youths to positions of respect and relevance.

He charged the newly inaugurated members that the sole objective in their ranks is to work assiduously and ensure that the Speaker emerges victorious at the forthcoming polls.

Finally, he promised that he will bring his weight of experience in making sure that the Speaker is elected as the next member to represent the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia at the Federal House of Representatives.

Afterwards, the Youths Director of Ikukuoma's Campaign Council and the Coordinator of Ikukuoma's Youths Campaign Council in Ikwuano LGA respectively, Hon Benjamin Ifeanyi Apugo and Hon Ezenwa Igwe led other members of the youths campaign council to a robust sensitization of the Ariam Usaka indigenes.

A former Chairman of Ikwuano Local Government Area, Hon Dom, had earlier welcomed the youths campaign council to Ikwuano Local Government Area.

Hon Samuel Nwachukwu is a consummate businessman, entrepreneur, technocrat, and philanthropist.

He was born in Aba, Abia State into the  royal family of Chief Chukwunyere Nwachukwu of Ogbodiukwu Umuopara, Umuahia South Local Government Area.

He had his early education at Entermaria primary school in Aba and Federal Government College in Kogi state before traveling to the United States.

He obtained his First degree in Business Administration at Essex Community College Rosedale Maryland and Second degree in Healthcare Management at Towson University in Maryland.

After his formal education, he advanced his working career into Real Estate, Construction, Health Care and Auto dealership. Sam Nwachukwu's tenacity, dexterity and determination has increased the competition of his company, Oxford Construction Company to be reckoned as one of the  best in West Africa.

Hon Samuel Nwachukwu has over the years through his Foundation, Sam Nwachukwu Foundation empowered youths and women in Abia state especially Umuahia through charitable donations. His vision is to effectively serve the people and consequently provide them a better quality of life. A comprehensive delineation of how he intends to foster the policies that will truly precipitate positive change for his people locally, and those of the federation of Nigeria at large are outlined in his daily activities such as; support scheme for the widow and aged, Employment opportunities and empowerment for the youth, infrastructural facilities development for public schools & hospitals, interest free-loan for traders, sports development, regular consultation cum interaction with the masses.

He is a very passionate Nigerian advocate who believes in the empowerment of the vibrant youth. Samuel Nwachukwu is happily married and blessed with four children.

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji earlier today paid a condolence visit to the family of Late Prof Ibe Samuel Onwuchekwa at Amuzukwu Ibeku, Umuahia North LGA.

Consoling the bereaved family, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji described Late Prof Ibe Samuel Onwuchekwa as an elder statesman who lived an exemplary life in service to God and humanity as well as committed to the progress of the state and encouraged them not to dwell on their grief but that they should be consoled by the fact that theirr father lived a fulfilled life that impacted many.

He prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and give the family the fortitude to bear the huge loss.

On his part, the Traditional Prime Minister of Ibeku Ancient Kingdom, High Chief Uche Akwukwuegbu (Bawas) consoled the family over the painful loss of their father. He urged the children of the Late erudite Professor to live in peace, love and harmony.

In his vote of thanks, the first son of the deceased, Mr Chiagoziem Samuel Onwuchekwa thanked the Speaker for coming to commiserate with them, and especially for his support to the family. He prayed God to continue to guide and lift him.

✍: Ikechukwu Kelvin Okorie

Football from time immemorial has been one great unifying factor, source of joy and happiness to Nigerians.

Apart from providing a positive engagement opportunity, community football is also linked to many social and health benefits. For starters, the communities can look forward to social returns such as increase connectedness, mental wellbeing, personal development and even employment opportunities.

The Ochendo Ohuhu League is an annual event sponsored by Prince Emeka Ihedioha Elias an illustrious son of Ohuhu, a philanthropist and a successful businessman who has made great positive strides in Ohuhu land.

The sponsor of the Ochendo Ohuhu League, Prince Elias Emy due to his love and unwavering support to the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly has re-tagged this year's league as "OCHENDO RELOADED FOR IKUKU OHUHU LEAGUE 2022 EDITION".

The football matches will be played in the modern One Thousand (1000 ) capacity mini stadium at Williams Memorial Secondary School, Afugiri, built by the Speaking Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly and the Peoples Democratic Party flag bearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the forthcoming 2023 general elections, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji.

As indicated on the template attached to this post, the Ochendo Reloaded For Ikuku League will kick off on Saturday, 12th November, 2022 by 4pm at the specified venue.

It will be Intriguing and Captivating.

When in January 2021, the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji commenced the construction of a series of mini-stadiums with the first ground breaking ceremony held at the Isieke Community Stadium, Isieke Ibeku, Umuahia North LGA, many could have doubted the determination of the Speaker to not only spread the project across different towns I the State but also to see to the maintenance of standards, infusion of jaw-dropping aesthetics and completion of the projects.

As a leader who believes strongly in the welfare of youths and the well being of the general populace, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji who himself is a certified engineer and the PDP flagbearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the 2023 general elections, has shown uncommon grit and commitment to the projects most of which are either already completed and awaiting finishing touches before commissioning, or, are at different advanced stages of completion.

Like he has reiterated during some of his outings, Mr Speaker embarked on the mini-stadium projects as his own contribution towards the desire of the Abia populace to embark on physical exercises for their wellbeing and that of the youths which, beyond keeping fit, will also serve as an avenue for them to ply their sporting trade, exhibit their scintillating football skills with the possibility of being discovered by both local and international football agents, academies and clubs for the purposes of going professional. This will surely launch the youths to stardom in addition to the socioeconomic benefits that will accrue to the host communities.

In doing this therefore, Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji is leaving a lasting legacy whose positive outcomes will outlive him, outlast generations after him and remain a reference point for what quality leadership should be about: vision, tenacity and posterity!

From Isieke to St Stephen's Umuahia, from Oboro to Olokoro, from Umuopara to Ubakala, from Ariam Usaka to Afugiri, and more, Mr Speaker's legacy mini-stadium projects will surely give room to our innumerable pool of Abia youths who wish to shine like a million stars in the sky of sporting engagements!

With Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji, the limits are beyond the sky!

Courtesy: Media Unit of the Speaker, Abia State House of Assembly

RT Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji's signature and community-oriented projects keep exciting the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency who have also vowed to positively repay the Speaker with their votes in the forthcoming general elections as he seeks to represent them in the Federal House of Representatives, Abuja.

It is an incontrovertible fact that Rt Hon Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji will do more from Abuja

The Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly and the Peoples Democratic Party flagbearer for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency at the forthcoming 2023 general elections, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji has presented official campaign vehicles to his local government campaign coordinators.

Speaking during the event, the Director-General of the Speaker's campaign council, Pastor Emeka Inyama who performed the presentation congratulated the Coordinators.

"We have only one objective, and that is to work hard and ensure that the Speaker emerges victorious at the forthcoming polls" Pastor Emeka Inyama said.

The local government coordinators of the Speaker's campaign council include:

1. Sir Tony Ezebuiro (Sir T) - Umuahia South LGA

2. Barr Alhaji Suleiman Ukandu - Umuahia North LGA

3. Hon Williams Ukatu - Ikwuano LGA

Other leaders and members of the Speaker's campaign council joined the Director-General in performing the presentation ceremony.

✍: Ikechukwu kelvin Okorie