Joeyzinho:
"..Raphael Obasi aged 40years, 'M' of Arodizuogu in Imo State.."

When governor soludo said some of these criminal elements wrecking havoc in anambra are indigenes of neighboring south eastern states, a lot of Igbos came for his head...

Wike has pursued and silenced them. Now they are now in anambra unleashing mayhem.

Once they enter the police cell, I trust the police to deal ruthlessly with these criminals in the language they understand.. Give to them the treatment they have been dishing out to your colleagues.

…one Chukwudere Eze, aged 30years, 'M' of Ogbunka in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra

Akwamkpuruamu:
One of the easiest way to suicide is joining the Nigerian military

Very true!!

Madibah:
Tacha
Cee c
Erica
All in the association of uncultured girls
AUG..

You forgot their Queen, T-boss!

sarrki:
It seems sanwo Olu of Lagos

Zulum of maiduguri

Wike of rivers

Obiano of Anambra

David umahi of ebonyi

Mattawalle of zamfara are the only working governors

You forgot Ihedioha of Owerri

flexyebe:


https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/10-former-govs-who-may-suffer-kalus-fate/amp/

Rochas Okorocha nko

As he interacts with the Media, Highlights challenges and progress made so far.

The Imo State Commissioner of finance Prof. Uche Joseph Uwaleke yesterday 5th November 2019 had an interactive session with the media, the interactive session which took place at the Ministry of finance Imo State secretariat Owerri gave the Hon. Commissioner the opportunity to highlight his journey so far as the ministry's boss, the challenges faced and the progress made so far. Also in attendance were the ministry of finance's Permanent Secretary Mr. Moses Chikezie, The SSA to the governor on Revenue Mr. Kelechi Omeni Nzewuihe and the ministry's DAF, Mrs. Morah Chux Okoro.

Speaking, the commissioner took his time to reel out some of the challenges he faced in the ministry when he assumed office, the commissioner said he had a meeting with staff of the ministry the very first week he came in, and inquired some of the challenges they have been facing so far, from the first person to the last, they all attested that the ministry of finance was stripped off of its functions, the procurement man complained, procurement was not done properly, the government borrow and the debts department of the ministry of finance will not know about it. There was no Records.

The Hon. Commissioner Further stated that,so far so good, the ministry is doing it's best to ensure that they right the wrongs of the past administration, the ministry of finance under his watch now have records that is used to produce the state's financial reports. The commissioner stated, "for the first time in many years, we were able to publish the financial report of the state for the last 3years. We've published them and put them in the ministry's websites, we published a financial report that is in line with the INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC SECTOR ACCOUNTING STANDARD".

Prof. Joe Uwaleke also made it very open that as of May 2019, the government of His Excellency Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha met a paltry 250million naira as Internally Generated Revenue, but due to efforts put in place, Imo State as of October can now boast of 877 million naira IGR and that tte target is to hit 1billion naira before December. Another plus recorded so far.

With the introduction of Treasury Single Account (TSA) which promotes transparency, one can tell how much has come in into the State's account, that wasn't possible before because they operated multiple Accounts. The commissioner said so far, they have really done well to lift Imo State out from where she was before.. They have strengthened the same debt management and department.

Speaking further, the commissioer said the ministry has approved an Efficiency Unit in the state. According to the finance Boss, Efficiency Unit is a unit that is responsible for reducing the cost of governance, many states have it but IMO state dont have until now; with this unit, the ministry will put in place strategies to reduce cost. Because he discovered that ministries spend a lot of money on stationaries, Fuel and overheads.

When asked about the 45billion naira Former Governor Okorocha claimed he left, Prof. Uwaleke clarified that. According to him, Every month Imo State Monthly Allocation is 5.5 billion naira and 1 billion will be deducted by the federal government leaving Imo State with 4.5 billion. How can one claim he left such amount when he couldn't even handover properly, IMO is indebted and we are struggling to catch up. Every Month the state government spends 2.5 billion naira on wages and salaries, 800 million naira on pensions. That's a total 3.3 billion naira from the 4.5 billion naira.

As of 2015 a particular loan was taken from Zenith bank 37 billion naira, federal government took over those debt and every month this state suffers 489 million naira as interest payment.
How then can one who indebted us this much leave such amount of money ,the commissioner concluded..

Conclusively, The Hon. Commissioner thanked the Press men and women for honouring his invitation despite the short notice and urged them to continue reporting facts and truths about the government and never give listening ears to mischief makers who's only agenda is to destroy what is Left of the state, making it clear that rebuild Imo Government of Emeka Ihedioha is on course to delivering dividends of democracy to Imo people.

Vitus Nduji
For the honorable commissioner

Nature8:



The league is between Peter Obi, Sullivan Chime, Willie Obiano and Chimaroke Nnamani......

1. Peter Obi
2. Sullivan Chime
3. Etc

globemoney:

You forgot obiano or what? Best SE Governors since 1999! Authoritative!!

1. Sullivan Chime
2. Willie Obiano
3. Umahi
4. Chimaroke Nnamani
5. Peter Obi
6. Rochas

Honorable mention
Chris Ngige

Anything other than this ranking is false! If Obiano could complete Anambra airport before his tenure elapses, he would be the undiputed best in SE since 1999

God forbid

Governor Ihedioha Takes Bold Step In Repositioning Imo; Flags Off Massive Road Construction, Reconstruction Of Dan Anyiam Staduim, Performs Ground breaking ceremony  Of Four Technical Collages

As part of activities marking the 100 days in office of Gov. Emeka Ihedioha as the Executive Governor of Imo State, the governor has done the flagging-off and ground breaking ceremony of a lot of developmental projects in the state.

ROADS

In keeping with his campaign promises to deliver quality road network across the state, the governor has flagged off massive road construction project in Imo State measuring 81km and valued at N23.4bn.

The roads involved which cut across the three zones of Orlu, Owerri and Okigwe, include:

●Ahiara-Okpala junction
●Nkume-Umuowa-Orlu
●Mgbidi–Oguta
●Naze-Nekede-Ihiagwa-Obinze
●Concord-Hotel –Jacob Zuma
●Imo State University Teaching Hospital-Orlu
●Imo State University –Bishop Court
●Aba Branch-Ahiara Junction
●Okigwe Roundabout–St. Mary Okigwe ●Asumpta–Umuguma Junction

●Douglas–Naze Junction
●Control – Umuguma roundabout
●Assumpta – PH road among others.

At the commencement of the flag off event, the governor said, “We are commencing the urban road rahibilatation across the state today. Few days ago I flagged off the RAMP Projects.  We have delibaretely choosen state roads while we have started discussion with the federal government on how we can rehabilitate the many bad federal roads in the state”.

At the Nkume-Umuowa-Orlu road, the Governor revealed that the 7km Road is being handled by an indegenous company, Solberg and the road is expected to be completed in 12 months. It will be recalled that this road was one of the reasons why Doctors at the teaching hospital were on strike prior to the take-off of the rebuild Imo government of Gov. Ihedioha.

The Control – Worldbank roundabout road project, a 7.2km dual carriage road will be handled by Zeerock Construction company and expected to be completed in 18 months, while the Assumpta – Ph road, a 10.7km also to be handled by Zerock has a completion time of 24 months. While speaking at the site of flag-off, the state Commissioner of Works, Engr. Benjamin Ekwueme noted that two substandard tunnels along the road built by the last administration will be demolished according to the recomendation of Nigeria Society of Engineers and a flyover will be constructed in its stead at the House of Assembly junction. The commissioner also revealed that the road will be ashphalted twice because of the heavy traffic expected on the road, and also assured that each of the roads have a lifespan of 15 – 20 years.


Also flagged off was the concord boulevard -PH road which is being handled by Coduc construction company, while the Naze-Nekede-Ihiagwa-Obinze road being handled by CHEC construction company is a 17.1km dual carriage road.

STADIUM

In line with the rebuild mantra of Gov. Ihedioha, the Dan Anyiam Stadiumand Grasshoper International handball stadium have been flagged off for rehabilitation and reconstruction.

The work which is expected to be completed in 90 days will see the complete replacement of the tartan tracks, the scoreboard, the flood lights, the football playing pitch, the 13,000 stadium sits among others with current world best facilities.

It will be recalled that the stadium has been completely dilapited for years now leading to the state football team, Heartland FC to be banished from playing in the stadium to the Okigwe stadium  by NPFL because of the very sorry state of the  sports facility.

With the rehabilition of these sports facilities, it is hoped that Imo State will return to its place of pride in the sports standing in the continent.

TECHNICAL SCHOOLS

The resuscitation of Technican and Vocational Education Training (TVET) is a prority of the Rebuild Imo Project of Gov. Emeka Ihedioha, with the strong belief  that the acquisition of critical technical and vocational skills by majority of the youths has the capacity to stimulate sustainable industrial development, job and wealth creation.

The governor has started the massive reconstruction and rehabilatation of the four technical schools in the state.

At the ground breaking ceremony for the reconstruction of Government Technical College, Okpro in Orlu, the governor reiterated his firm belief in the technical and vocational empowerment of the youths. The goverrnor who revealed that the contractor handling the project is  an indegene of the area and will make use of local manpower where needed during the work. To ensure quality delivery of the project, Gov. Ihedioha also announced that the services of a renowed consulant has also been engaged to ensure the roads are built to specifications. The governor also maintained that all the schools will be equipped according to international and world best standards.

The reconstruction work at Government Technical  School is being financed 100% by Zenith Bank plc as part of their corporate social responsibility.

Other technical schools in the state which has been flagged off for reconstruction are Government Technical College, Mbaise; Government Technical College, Mbano.

Source: http://screengist.com/2019/09/05/ihedioha100days-gov-ihedioha-takes-bold-step-in-repositioning-imo-flags-off-massive-road-construction-reconstruction-of-dan-anyiam-staduim-performs-ground-breaking-ceremony-of-four-technica/

World Breastfeeding Week: Hon. Vin Udokwu lauds efforts, successes at improving infant, child nutrition

The honorable commissioner for health in Imo state, Hon. Vin Udokwu has commended the level of successes achieved toward promoting breastfeeding and improving child survival and maternal indices in Imo state. He gave his commendation in his address at the GRAND FINALE OF 2019 WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK CELEBRATION, which held at the headquarters of Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo state.

The World Breastfeeding Week is marked annually from Aug. 1 to Aug. 7, and the theme for 2019 is: “Empower Parents; Enable Breastfeeding now and for the future”.

“The Programme has effectively delivered in its mandate to promote maternal and child health in Imo state, particularly the strengthening of breastfeeding practices for improved health of newborns. It is very important, in ensuring the healthy growth and development of infants and young children through improved breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices”, the commissioner stated.

“I am delighted with the level of success achieved by the programme particularly in improving infant and child nutrition. I am encouraged by the progress achieved and determined to use this World Breastfeeding Week as a milestone to re-commit to the objectives of preventing illness, stunting and malnutrition, which is inline with the wishes of the rebuild Imo Agenda.

Dr. Udokwu noted that the event was aimed at empowering mothers to breastfeed properly, thereby helping their babies to start strong for a better future. Quoting the 2016 multiple indicator cluster survey, the commissioner noted that Imo state has infant and under-five mortality rates of 66/1,000 live births and 96/1,000 live births respectively and over 50% of the mortality are associated with malnutrition. He stressed that the nutritional status presently stands at 17.2% stunting, 8.1% wasting and 14.3% underweight.

Also in attendance of the epoch making event was the wife of the Governor Of Imo state, H/E, Lady Mrs. Ebere Ihedioha, who was represented by the commissioner for Gender and Vulnerable Groups Affairs, Hon. Mrs. Nkeiru Ibekwe.

The wife of the Governor expressed her sadness towards the negligence breastfeeding received from nursing mothers, “As a mother of all in the state, I feel sad about the situation of our children and therefore we must hit the ground running in order to reduce the high infant and under-five mortality rates. It will gladden my heart if the stunting, wasting and underweight rates among the under five children are reduced to the barest minimum”, she noted.

To mark the day’s event, award prizes were given to mothers who nursed their babies to WHO standards, while also maintaining the compulsory ante-natal and post natal programmes enshrined into it. The candidates for the award were drawn across the 27 LGA’s in the state, with Ihitte Uboma getting the first prize (John and Janice Issac ; Twins), Ezinihitte Mbaise came second (Chinyere Ukanwoke) while Owerri Municipal came third (Chikanma Inmocent).

Concluding, Dr. Udokwu appealed to all citizens of Imo state to support mothers to adhere strictly to the recommendations and plead especially with the husbands of breastfeeding mothers and mothers in-law, other family members and indeed the community to provide the family support to encourage the mothers to excel in the two care practices; this he said will help to reduce malnutrition and mortality among children to support development and leave a legacy for posterity.

http://screengist.com/2019/09/03/world-breastfeeding-week-hon-vin-udokwu-lauds-efforts-successes-at-improving-infant-child-nutrition/

As Lawmaker lauds governor’s response to abandoned projects, commends Imo Govt.

A member of the Federal House Of Representatives, representing Okigwe North Federal Constituency, Honourable Obinna Onwubuariri has said that the People’s Democratic Party-led government at the state was responsive given the demonstration of commitment to the people’s oriented projects in the state.

In a press statement in Abuja, capital of Nigeria, Hon. Onwubuariri, also the Deputy Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs lauded Governor Emeka Ihedioha’s administration for the eagerness to give Imolites access roads by flagging off the Rural Access And Mobility project (RAMP II) in Imo state.

The lawmaker stated that the objectives of the Rural Access and Mobility Project in Imo are to improve road access for rural communities in Imo state and improve management of the state road network in a sustainable manner. He further stated that there are two components to the project; the first component is the upgrading, rehabilitation and maintenance of transport infrastructure component.

The second component is the institutional strengthening, reforms and capacity building component. This component will focus on supporting project implementation by providing the necessary goods, materials and equipment and by ensuring the existence of the appropriate project management capacity and skills at both the state and local government levels.

The rural transport infrastructure component of the project will support the upgrading, rehabilitation and maintenance of about 380.1km of rural roads selected from the top prioritized intervention areas across the state. The project is estimated to cost about N13.5 Billion and the new roads will spread across the local government areas of the state.

Today, the official flag off Ceremony for the roads in Okigwe zone will take place in Onuimo LGA and will be performed by His Excellency, Governor Emeka Ihedioha.

Indeed, Imo is working again!

http://obinna.org/lawmaker-lauds-governors-response-to-abandoned-projects-commends-imo-govt/

Chimookigwe:
Check well, Biafrans are involved.

get lost

Igboblog:
JUST IN!!! Presidency Reacts As IPOB Declares Buhari Missing In Japan

The Presidency has debunked the alleged report by the Indigenous People Of Biafra, IPOB, that President Muhammadu Buhari is missing in Japan, Igbere TV reports.


Igbere TV reports that the Presidency said the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has “nothing to do with President Muhammadu Buhari since he arrived Yokohama, Japan, on Monday.”

Igbere TV reported that Buhari departed Nigeria yesterday for Japan to participate in the Seventh Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD7) holding in the City of Yokohama, August 28-30, 2019.

However, IPOB alleged that the President was not in Japan, stressing that photographs of Buhari were photoshopped.

Responding to the allegation, Buhari’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, urged Nigerians to disregard the claims by IPOB.

In a statement made available to Igbere TV, Adesina said: “Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora are urged to disregard concocted stories, backed with spurious visuals, of any protest or harassment of the President and his team. It is the stock-in-trade of hate mongers, who do not realize that the rest of Nigerians have left them far behind.

“President Buhari will make his presence at the Seventh Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD7) count for Nigeria, and no scare-mongering or sabre-rattling will detract from the outing."

Source : http://igberetvnews.com/936574/just-in-presidency-reacts-as-ipob-declares-buhari-missing-in-japan/

photoshopped image

PDP Candidate for Njaba State Constituency in the 2019 elections, Hon. Charles Abia, has called for the inclusion of Hon Uju Onwudiwe in the planned probe of the past administration of Rochas Okorocha by Gov. Ihedioha, following her comments that probing the past administration will amount to a witch hunt. He made this call during an interview session with journalists in Owerri. Here are the excerpts of the interview:


Question: May we meet you Sir for the purpose of this interview?

Answer: My name is Charles Abia, I was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Njaba State Constituency for the 2019 elections. As you are aware, the issue regarding the election of March 9th for the State House of Assembly and the Governorship is still in court. I am challenging the declaration made by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which we think was made in error. Of course, its being challenged at the Elections Petitions Tribunal and I think that very soon the court will be ruling on that matter.


Question: What is your take on the member representing Njaba State Constituency in the 9th Assembly Honorable Uju Onwudiwe urging Governor Emeka Ihedioha not to probe the immediate past administration of Rochas Okorocha

Answer: A lot of people from Njaba will not agree with you that she is representing them. If you have observed, you will see that she has been sponsoring that interview, trying to push it to various media houses and local tabloids. Shes been trying and the aim for her is very clear that she doesnt want a probe at all. She has been crying more than the bereaved. You should even be worried why she is the one sponsoring publications everywhere telling Governor Emeka Ihedioha not to probe the Rochas Okorocha administration. I mean why is she doing that?

Is it not possible she maybe part of those that participated in the looting of the treasury we had in the past 8 years? Thats why she has been the one shouting and talking about it everywhere. Its beginning to get sickening. Thats why I will tell you that a lot of people in Njaba will not agree with you that she is representing them.

There are issues with erosion, there are issues with flooding and there are issues with health institutions that have actually been run down in Njaba State Constituency; erosion issues and so many issues. Do you hear or see her pushing issues like that in media houses or local tabloids?

She has been all about everywhere in the past two weeks talking about Governor Emeka Ihedioha and how he should not dare probe her paymasters in the persons of Rochas Okorocha and Uche Nwosu. It shows you that there is something she is afraid of and she probably has soiled her hands. She is afraid of her shadows.


Question: Are You Accusing Her Of Not Paying Attention To The Flood Menace In Njaba?

Answer: I have not accused her. The thing is, if you represent a people, every once in a while you should go to the people for a review. The people of Njaba are supposed to do her appraisal. She represents her pay masters who are currently fighting a battle against Imolites.


Question: May I remind you that she is the first lawmaker of the Imo State 9th Assembly to a raise a motion on the floor of the house, calling on the State Government to urgently looking into the case of the erosion menace?

Answer: Well, that is the funny thing. First of all, the truth is that the erosion issues in Njaba did not start today. It has been there these past four years. She was there in the past four years. What did she do about it?
She heard that there was something going on with erosion control in Ideato and she started her lackluster window dressing. Listen, Njaba people cried out because the people saw her moving around with the defeated Governorship Candidate of the Action Alliance, Uche Nwosu. They have told her the things Njaba people are passing through and she was not doing anything, claiming to be representing them; She came up to do what I will best describe as an unfortunate dance, since then what has happened?

You have seen the action that is taking place in now Ideato with erosion control. The House member there pushed for it. You can see also there are some actions now in Oguta.

Uju Onwudiwe has not been able to get the governor to come to Njaba and see the erosion site. She is more preoccupied with representing the failed interests of her paymasters.

As far as we are concerned in Njaba, she does not represent us. I am from Njaba. If you wish, you can actually go and interview the ordinary man and woman on the streets in njaba, and they will tell you that Uju Onwudiwe does not represent Njaba. She represents the interest of her paymasters in the persons of Uche Nwosu, and Rochas Okorocha, who are actually fighting with the people.

You saw what happened few days ago, with the recovery made by Jasper Ndubuaku, Chairman of Imo State Task Force on the Recovery of Movable Government properties. You could see what was loaded in those containers; government properties they had looted, and people almost mobbed the daughter of Rochas Okorocha who is incidentally the wife of Uche Nwosu.

Imo people have pitched themselves against them. Those are Uju Onwudiwes pay masters and those are the people she represents. She does not represent the people of Njaba. The people will tell you the same thing.


Question: Sir with your statement, are you trying tell the Governor to go ahead with the probing of the immediate past administration?

Answer: Is it me that will tell the governor, the people of Imo State are crying for it actually. They want Okorocha and his cronies probed. Look at the recoveries. Our resources were plundered.

Rochas Okorocha in eight years raped Imo State. There was a complete destruction of our common heritage. He and his cronies converted lots of properties belonging to the government to their personal use: Lands, buildings, Cars etc.

They even went as far as taking rods, seats belonging to the government, acquired with government funds, building porsche hotels and estates everywhere, and someone, who claims to be in her right senses thinks there shouldnt be a probe? God forbid! There must be a detailed probe.

The meaning of probe is to ask questions. Theres nothing like witch hunting about probe. Imolites want questions to be asked. In any case, if you are not guilty why should you be afraid of probe? I think in the probe there is also need to check Uju Onwudiwes bank account, to check her properly because an Igbo proverb says where a child is crying and pointing hand, if the father is not there then the mother may be there. Incidentally Uche Nwosu has not been the one calling against the probe; it has been Uju Onwudiwe doing so. It is possible she is one of those hiding the money for them. So I think there should be a probe. It is an enquiry.

One of the many reasons Imolites voted for Gov. Emeka Ihedioha is because they wanted a Governor that will actually come in and probe the Okorocha administration. They felt that this man destroyed our common heritage. Imo had been a place of pride, but this man caused a lot of destruction, a lot of disaster. So people voted massively against his third term agenda, which was to install his son in-law Uche Nwosu. People voted against that and the reason they did that was to recover things this man had stolen within the 8 years he held sway as Imo governor. It is not me calling for the probe as it were, except that I am joining myriads of well-meaning Imolites asking for a detailed unraveling of what happened to our common wealth under Okorochas watch. I am therefore worried that the outgoing member of the House is now the person calling against the probe, sponsoring loads of publications.

The question is: what is so wonderful about not probing Okorocha, that is concerning a house of assembly member or someone who claims to be a House of Assembly member? Why is she so concerned about the probe of the immediate past administration? Why is it sending shivers down her spine? Unfortunately for her, she cannot succeed because she is one person against the rest of Imo people who think that there should be a probe. She should be probed for saying there should not be a probe because it suggests she may not be entirely clean. She is obviously trying to cover up something but I know the man, Ihedioha, will certainly launch a detailed probe.

If Rochas Okorocha and his co-travelers, which also includes Uju Onwudiwe are free of any guilt then so be it, we will congratulate them. In fact, we will apologize to them.

Question: What Is Your Take On The State Governor Signing Executive Order on The Treasury Single Account?

Answer: It is indeed a welcome development. The Treasury Single Account signing is a wonderful thing and has been well received by the generality of our people.
One of the things it does is to plug leakages in government revenue. There are lots of leakages in internal revenue collection. You see that before now, there were about 250 accounts belonging to the State. People collect revenue here and there and then the monies are not properly accounted for.

But with the TSA, it means revenue of Imo state will be consolidated in one account and its a wonderful idea. In fact it shows character on the part of this administration. A criminally minded administration will be thinking of how to pick money here and there but this man says lets get our revenue consolidated. I mean, is it not worrisome that Imo state is about the least in terms of revenue generation in the entire south east? Last month (June), what we got was about 300 million naira. That was the total internally generated revenue of Imo State. We have salaries to pay, pensions to pay. We have infrastructure to do. So this is a wonderful thing.

I commend Governor Ihedioha. It is indeed a step in the right direction and will help this administration a lot in terms of having funds for projects.

For now we are beginning to see a government that is responsive. You will know how wonderful a day will be from the morning usually. If you want to build a sky-scrapper, you will pay very close attention to the foundation but if you want to build a bungalow, you wont do so much on the foundation so Ihedioha is setting a wonderful foundation because he is building a sky scrapper. He has a very wonderful vision. A governor that wants to pander to media sentiments will rush to do projects even if they are poorly done, so that people can clap for him but he is not given to frivolities. He is taking his time to set a solid foundation so that he will now be able to put up a proper structure that Imolites will be proud of.

Committee on Foreign Affairs and Relations: Insights and Expectations.

The two major committees within the National Assembly that focus on contributing to global peace and Nigeria’s international participation are the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Of representatives Foreign Affairs Committee. Due to the fact that these committees come from different chambers of the National Assembly, they are headed by different appointed lawmaker(s) but their practices, goals and methods of passing bills are similar. Each committee also has different roles in the fight against global poverty, terrorism and insecurity; National Assembly committees on foreign affairs divide up the organizations and duties that each must create legislation for, and together, form the foreign relations system of the Nigeria.

The Committees on Foreign Affairs in the House: The House Foreign Affairs Committee debates and evaluates bills that impact the bilateral agreement we have with sister and other countries, it’s bills also impact the country’s collaboration(s) with United Nations, African Union, Economic Community Of West African States, the Peace Corps, the enforcement of the Arms Import Control Act and the Foreign Assistance Act. It also focuses on the promotion of democracy, peacekeeping and international development.

A few of the National Assembly Foreign Relations Committee’s major areas of jurisdiction that aid in the fight against poverty include economic, military, technical and humanitarian assistance to sister foreign countries, foreign loans, international activities of the Nigerian Red Cross, international law as it relates to foreign policy and the International Monetary Fund.

Recently, the United States president, President Donald Trump in his last ‘state of the union’ address, reeled out new international policies, which expunged some African countries from the tripod assist they provide to third world countries. Unfortunately, Nigeria is one amongst these countries that will painstakingly go through hurdles to benefit from direct AID, War Against Counter-Terrorism and Trade And Investment in Africa. However, the announcement of new committee leadership by the Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila led 9th assembly springs hope to our bilateral relations with countries like USA ��, UK ��, France �� etc.

With the non-visa-Free entry of Nigerians to some sister African countries, lots are expected of the new house leadership on foreign affairs committee. A plate full of priorities awaits them, as they must juggle through bilateral storms to rebuild the already battered image of Nigeria Internationally. This was made known by the deputy Chairman of the house committee on Foreign Affairs, Hon. Obinna Kingsley Onwubuariri MHR (Okigwe North).

#LetsMakeNigeriaGreatAgain
#ProudlyNigerian

By: Obi Bright Chinweuba

Culled: http://obinna.org/committees-on-foreign-affairs-and-relations-insights-and-expectations/

Today’s PDP political rally in Okigwe L.G.A was epoch making, as men of goodwill from across the LGA came to support the PDP. During the rally, the Isiala-Mbano/Onuimo/Okigwe Federal constituency’s Lawmaker, Hon. Engr. Obinna Kingsley Onwubuariri, celebrated the strength and gains of the political party in the LGA, his celebration raised the tempo of politics in the Local Government area as the new heaven of PDP in Imo state. While celebrating the great feat his party holds in Okigwe LGA, and his resounding victory at the pools in 2015 which he termed “historic and unprecedented,” Hon. Obinna represented by his campaign team ably led by Chief Eddy Nwosu; led thousands of his followers and party faithful’s in the rally to commemorate on PDP’s gains.

Supporters from Okigwe LGA, who sang songs praising Hon. Onwuuariri for his human faced politics, also urged the lawmaker to go ahead with his plan to run for a second tenure. They, according to their spokesperson said that Hon. Onwubuariri is the Amen to their prayers. He further said that his team’s interest in the rally became necessary to celebrate Hon. Onwubuariri and his legislative inputs in view of the giant strides he has taken in moving the country forward through his bills and motions.

According to him, under Hon. Onwubuariri’s representation, Ndi Okigwe North have seen the proliferation of numerous dividends of democracy ranging from trainings, retraining’s, seminars, sinking of pipe borne waters, empowerment, healthcare revitalization, road reconstruction, etc. He said, “This is opposed to the past, where our past legislators are only after their private purses, those who had represented us in the time past didn’t do up to 15% of what this ebullient young parliamentarian has done in 3years”, he added.

The Special Assistant to the Honorable on Media and Publicity, Diag. Dr. Obi Bright Chinweuba, thanked the army of youths who trooped out en-mass to cheer the astute lawmaker. He reassured them of the lawmaker’s deep necked resilience to deliver the best to ndi Okigwe North.

http://obinna.org/okigwe-youths-opinion-moulders-cheer-as-hon-onwubuaruri-receives-encomiums/

kenonze:
God bless PMB

Your PMB didn't do shit,
GEJ started all these!

Cool

When the Okigwe North’s representative at Nigeria’s lower legislative chamber, Hon (Engr) Obinna Onwubuariri, briefed youths, men, women, leaders and elders in the three local governments of the federal constituency recently and reeled out his legislative activities and achievements after three years; there were many people who had their doubts as to whether the young parliamentarian has contributed his quota to the development of Okigwe North, cleared. Essentially, it was arguably the first thorough and all inclusive briefing done by any rep member in the constituency since the return of steady democracy.

He was able to open many eyes and establish that after all, he means well for his people as against the opinion of vociferous nay sayers and detractors. While he admitted obvious shortcomings and challenges, being a first timer in the opposition party, he humbly acknowledged that he has to improve and expectedly deliver better representation to his constituents. He should be commended for that at least.

Unlike some other politicians, Obinna Onwubuariri is not obsessed with the spotlight. He prefers to keep most of his goodwill to people between him and God. He remains a politician who believes in his own methods, ideologies and principles about politics and life in general, even though they might differ from that of many other people. The Amaraku born Engineer cannot be equated with some of his predecessors whose only achievement in office is the errection of street lights at few locations across the constituency. What matters most to Obinna is achieving positive results, and for Okigwe North, the youthful legislator is leaving no stone unturned in perpetuating the dividends of democracy to his constituency through legislation, to the best of his ability.

Today, the good people of Okigwe North Federal Constituency of Imo State which is made up of Onuimo, Isiala Mbano and Okigwe local governments are receiving these dividends of democracy. Youths are assisted to get federal jobs, and through his massive rural electrification project that covers the construction of power sub-stations, many communities in the federal constituency who are not experiencing electricity are beginning to sing a new song. Again, with over 40 borehole water projects taking off across the federal constituency, plus other programmes in the area of health, education and road construction, Hon. Obinna Onwubuariri, one man who does not give excuses for failure, has made a strong statement to show that providing some of the basic needs of his beloved constituents is top of his priority.

Even with the federal government’s terribly poor budget funding, the real estate mogul has continued to prove that Okigwe North can be proud of him. One good TERM therefore, deserves another.

http://obinna.org/hon-onwubuariri-continues-to-work-hard-for-a-better-okigwe-north/

HON. OBINNA KINGSLEY ONWUBUARIRI: A CASE STUDY

The House of Representatives member representing Isiala Mbano/Okigwe/Onuimo federal constituency at the national assembly, Hon. Obinna Kingsley Onwubuariri, who doubles as the youngest Federal legislator from the south east, is a one term member of the lower chamber and also member of the in-house committees on Defense, Power, FCT, Urban and regional planning, Health Care Services and Electoral Matters.

In this present democratic dispensation, managing a diverse, multi-talented, over-populated and one of the largest constituencies in Nigeria like Isiala Mbano/Okigwe/Onuimo is not an easy task as such, it requires a great deal of patience, commitment, justice, fairness, dedication, and above all, humility.

Consequently, the constituency was also among the constituencies that was lacking in so many areas, ranging from inadequate portable water, inadequate health and medical facilities, inadequate learning environment/learning materials, lack of human capital development, political divides and conflicts, in addition to deep seated mistrust within past political leaders.

By the time, Hon. Obinna came to power, after reclaiming his mandate which he spent months and money fighting in the court, after been dragged to court by his predecessor, Hon. Matthew Omegara over electioneering matters, which he believed that with prayers, determination and support, the problem was solved and he went ahead to be inaugurated as the substantial Federal legislator.

Hon. Obinna Kingsley Onwubuariri, has in several occasions blazed the trail for youthful inclusions into leadership hierarchy, thus he achieved this through his dogged but humble entrance into mainstream politics and thus winning the race, and by that opening a window of follow ups and creating an enabling environment where youths can audaciously rise and become great leaders of now.

Symbolic to his great leadership and ‘remote’ humanitarian inputs, he has been conferred with numerous leadership awards. He strongly believes that tributes and awards are not intended to praise-sing but to highlight some emulative sterling qualities and selfless sacrifices made by individual and organizations toward a better and prosperous society. Having been close to Hon. Obinna at official and personal levels, I must say that we are blessed with a man of high integrity, honesty, piety, not just an administrator but an initiator.

It may surprise many to note that, on assumption of duty, Hon. Obinna hit the ground running by introducing a bridge empowerment scheme which has helped over 2000 constituents to be engaged in public and private sectors of the economy. 750 among whom were trained on various skills acquisition which include; tailoring, beads making, tiles installation, soap and pomade making, powder, poultry, catering, among others.

Another 150 people also benefited from his ITF training projects, about 100 were given sewing machines, while another 250 received motorcycles to aid their businesses in rural areas. Many have been gainfully employed in different ministries through his intervention, as well as those who were recruited into the Army, Police, Navy and Civil Defense.

One hundred women received financial grants to kick-start and boost their businesses in addition to working tools ranging from grinding machines, hair treating and saloon equipment to grating material among others. JAMB and WAEC forms have been procured for those who couldnt afford it, as well as those who seek to travel abroad to further their education or for greener pastures.

In his effort to enhance commercial agriculture, he is set to sponsor, train as well as provide fertilizer and water pumping machines to over 100 farmers at different communities. It came out that he has assisted many physically challenged people with wheel chairs.

Hon. Obinna did not stop there; he reached out to so many market women across his constituency where he assisted them with thousands of Naira to boost their markets, after they were ousted from Eke Onuwa, Orie Amaraku, New Market etc. He has equally assisted different markets in his constituency by building toilets for them. An example is the market located close to Okigwe park.

In the area of healthcare, Hon. Obinna has attracted the revitalization and facelift of 20 Primary Health Centres in his constituency. He has attracted two cottage hospitals also that will be built in Umulolo, Okigwe and Isiala mbano. Among the 20 primary health centres, Isiala mbano received Eight (, while Okigwe and Onuimo received seven (7) and five (5) respectively.

Rather than accusing successive past representatives, Hon. Obinna has been so passionate about education project in his constituency. He has facilitated securing admission to so many students in so many universities across Nigeria, more especially in Imo state University Owerri, Federal Polytechnic Nekede etc. He has gone as far as buying JAMB and WAEC forms for those who cant afford them.

By and large, Hon. Obinna is constructing 40 boreholes that will successfully curb the water scarcity across his constituency. The borehole is to go around every INEC pooling ward in Isiala Mbano/Okigwe/Onuimo federal constituency. He also facilitated the provision and installation of 7 power substations and 21 transformers across the constituency.

In the area of sports, He, Hon. Obinna Kingsley Onwubuariri has sponsored one of the most scintillating football competitions in Imo state for a period of 10 years. The competition has yielded many gains, as many talents have been successfully scouted and sent to ply their trade in higher leagues and foreign countries. He is one lawmaker who believes in the great spirit of sportsmanship and its binding powers to unison.

How come he was able to carry out his roles so meticulously and succeeded? The answer is not far-fetched. He had garnered a lot of experience from bureaucratic circle environment and structural consulting at different stages of his life. For many years he was a refined business mogul, a real estate magnet and 4-star hotelier before he later joined politics.

Constituents however wondered why Hon. Obinna in spite of all these achievements has hardly resorted to media propaganda but then again good works speak for itself as a gold fish they say has no hiding place. He has in several times cautioned us in his media team not to tell people what he has not done. "Dont lie for me, dont tell people what we have not done" he often roars.
Indeed, a Caleb has come to serve the good people of Okigwe North, and it will be rightly right to enable him serve us more.

© Obi Bright Chinweuba
Email: obibright13@yahoo.com
Tel: 07038241355

http://obinna.org/the-8th-national-assembly-grading-the-performance-of-a-federal-legislator/

By: Obi Bright Chinweuba

The Wealthy Brethren Association Of Nigeria has awarded the Honorable member and youthful leader representing Isiala-Mbano/Okigwe/Onuimo at the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Obinna Kingsley Onwubuariri with the Wealthy Brethren Humanitarian and Leadership Merit award.

At a colouful and well-attended event held at the victory kingdom in Amaraku, Isiala Mbano, the President of the Wealthy Brethren association of Nigeria, Comrade Uzoma Sydney Okoro Ihediohanma said Hon. Obinna Onwubuariri; a youthful leader and exemplary good influencer of the youths was honored with the award because of his sterling and exemplary contributions to the society, through his numerous pet projects and charity oriented lifestyle.

Speaking during the awarding ceremony, Ihediohnma said at a time when well-placed individual in the society were shying away from helping the less privileged ones that it was comforting to find someone like Hon. Obinna Onwubuariri championing the move to bridge the gap between the privileged and the less privileged, through his human faced empowerment programs in his federal constituency and beyond, and donation of gift items as well as intervention programs aimed at eliminating hunger and poverty.

“There is no doubt that Hon. Onwubuariri merits the Wealthy Brethren Humanitarian and Leadership Merit award because of his service to Okigwe North and the Nigerian community. We are proud to have someone like him in our society and we will always be ready to identify with any of his projects in the future”, said Ihediohanma.

Responding after collecting the award, Hon. Onwubuariri said that he was humbled with the gesture and promised to remain of serve to the country.

“I am deeply humbled with this award. I was not expecting it. All I am concerned about is to ensure that the needs of the less privileged in our society are met and that is what my leadership and political structure sets out to do and will continue to do as we seek to cut the big divide that exists between the rich and the poor in our constituency and nation at large”, said Onwubuariri.

He added that “I wish to express my deep appreciation to all the members, volunteers and youth ambassadors who are working tirelessly behind and on he scene to ensure the success of our leadership and humanitarian efforts. And of course, I would like to thank the kind-hearted constituents of Okigwe North for their faith in my representation.

http://obinna.org/onwubuariri-gets-wealthy-brethren-merit-award/

By: Obi Bright Chinweuba

The Budgetary process has remained one of the major challenges of Nigeria’s democracy since 1999. It was for the first time ever, in the 2017 Budget that a web-based application was used, which provided for Ministries, Departments and Agencies to upload their budget proposals to the new budget preparation portal, making the preparation process more efficient and transparent process.

Another smart move in redefining how we prepare our appropriation bills is the introduction of Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The MTEF outlines Federal Government’s fiscal policies and macroeconomic projections for years to come. It also provides broad framework for annual budget and fiscal management in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, FRA, 2007.

The MTEF which takes bragging right as a good financial and appropriation platform can be said to be a good player in projecting the appropriation bill having in mind, the oil production levels, oil price benchmark, exchange rate, inflation rate, gross domestic product, GDP, growth rate, nominal GDP and nominal consumption rate, among others, were explained.

Over the years, Legislative measures have been introduced to support and implement a proper budgetary process that supports a strong and robust National Economy. Such among them is the Fiscal Responsibility Act, FRA, 2007.

The Fiscal Responsibility Act is an Act to provide for prudent management of the Nation’s Resources, ensure Long Term Macro-Economic stability of the National Economy, secure greater accountability and transparency in Fiscal operations within the Medium Term Fiscal Policy Framework, and the establishment if the Fiscal Responsibility Commission to ensure the promotion and enforcement of the Nation’s Economic objectives; and for related matters.

The review of the budgetary process will emphasize the following:

~ Promotion of an inclusive budgetary process that seeks the cooperation of the Executive in institutionalizing pre-budget interface and consultations.
~ Full Adoption and implementation of an effective Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).
~Strict compliance with the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.
~ Insistence on prioritization of budget expenditure that reflects approved budget lines
~ Zero tolerance for non-implementation of capital projects as approved in annual Budgets
~ Effective monitoring and evaluation of expenditure and of outcomes achieved-value for money.

The Appropriation Bill is often submitted very late in the fiscal year, thereby leaving very little time for the National Assembly to do thorough work. Honorable Obinna Kingsley Onwubuariri hinted that the House would revisit the Constitution Amendment passed by the 7th House mandating the President to submit his Budget proposals at least 3 months before the end of a fiscal year, instead of “at any time” before the end of a fiscal year currently in the Constitution. This is critical in passing annual appropriation bill on time.

In addition, he also said that “the House shall examine the efficacy of conducting public hearings on the Budget before legislative approval as this exposes the National Budget to increased citizen and stake holder participation”.

According to the young parliamentarian, the House of Representatives will ensure proper functioning and operation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, including a possible review of the Act, to streamline budgetary processes and achieve strict adherence to timelines for budget presentation and passage. “The Finance (Control and Management) Act would be further examined to expunge all provisions that are in-consistence with the Constitution and Presidential system of government” he said.

The 8th House of Representatives will take legislative measures to ensure that the Executive does not choose which aspects of the Appropriation Act it implements. Indeed the House shall seek the cooperation of the Executive to develop and enforce a Needs Based Budgeting System rather than an ‘envelop’ Based Budgeting System.

He also noted that the release of appropriated funds and general implementation of the Budget shall henceforth define the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature in the 8th Assembly as the Nigerian people are entitled to feel the impact of governance through the appropriation mechanism and process.

source: http://obinna.org/hon-onwubuariri-harps-on-the-review-of-the-national-budgetary-process/

Rochas Okorocha as of today, is the greatest thief to have graced the office of Imo government house....

Ihedioha is a noble man!
He's Imo's next Governor!!!

~Obi Bright Chinweuba

Children are innocent, children are mischief, but children bring a smile to one’s face. One of the most treasured possessions on earth; children are loved by one and all. Thus, Children’s Day is celebrated to commemorate the healthy growth and happiness of children.

"Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded." Jess Lair.

While every nation has its own day dedicated to children, International Children’s Day is observed on June 1 and Universal Children’s Day on November 20 across the world. In Nigeria, Children’s Day is celebrated on the 27th of May.

Nigerian kids are very special people because they are the ones that will live after us, so in order to celebrate them, the IMPACT Team, Imo state university chapter, dolled out goodies to motherless babies home(s), as the founder of IMPACT Movement, Mr. Ebuka Impact Eluchie cued into the believe of Charles Dickens that “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another".

The young student leader, who through numerous times provided succour to the less privileged, also draws blood from the teaching that goes thus "Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance". Roy T. Bennett.

It was a great wrap yesterday, as we toured several less privileged homes. Impact, who was in company of his bosom friends, Onyanta Collins, Patrick Placini Olundu, StanLey Nzeako and my humble self. In the words of Ben Carson, “Happiness doesn't result from what we get, but from what we give.

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*SOS TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: NEED TO ACTIVATE NDDC IMSU STUDENTS HOSTEL TO ENABLE US TACKLE SUBSEQUENT ACCOMMODATION CHALLENGES AND REDUCE THE UNBEARABLE RENT IN PRIVATE HOSTELS

According to Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Absolute silence leads to sadness and it is the image of death. Ella Wheeler Wilcox also confirmed the above with her popular saying that “To sin by silence when we should speak, Makes cowards out of men.” My concern and that of my fellow Students of Imo State University bothers on the high rate of hostel rents and it's incessant increment, intimidation from various managers of these private hostels which most at times results to bullying and harassment, use of illegal and unlawful means to extort from our dear vulnerable students and lots more.

Lest I forget, I wish to appreciate the efforts of Tertiary Education Trust Fund - TETFUND, a body which has greatly helped to alleviate the sufferings of Nigerian institutions especially Imo State University in terms of infrastructural development, academic upgrade and other issues. Our Loving and workaholic Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mrs V. A. Obasi and her management team and the Rescue Mission Administration led by His Excellency, Owelle Dr Rochas Okorocha for their various inputs to ensure that our institution gets a facelift.

But it is quite unfortunate, disheartening and shameful that a building which has been under construction since 2006 is yet to serve its purpose. Just imagine the NDDC students hostel sited at Lake Nwaebere built since 2013 has turned to a hideout for hoodlums instead of serving its purpose for Imo stars. Our visit to the complex made us shed uncontrollable tears as the building which is suffering reckless abandonment after its alleged commissioning in 2013 has no access road connecting it to the campus roads and no provision for Electricity. According to our findings, there are strong indications that the building is leaking due to faulty roofing, needs rehabilitation as the entire plumbing work has become a mess, no furnishing done yet as the entire environment is fast growing into a forest and my question is; who commissioned this half baked project and why the silence over this issue?

While private owned hostels place their rent charges for a room between the rate of N120,000 and N200,000 per annum even with their poor facilities, I believe the provision of affordable hostels like that of the NDDC in the University when made to function will be a great succor and also drastically curtail the excesses, greed, extortion and madness from these private hostel owners. Recently, our visit to the students hostel under construction by TETFUND inside the campus has shown that efforts are being made by TEtfund and the management of our dear institution to set good track records in tackling the accommodation menace but that is not enough. We need the NDDC hostel to function and serve its purpose!

We are not unaware of the promise by the State Government to assist us in constructing an access road for the NDDC hostel which has suffered alot of setback or possibly has been forgotten but we believe the Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha led administration has great love for education and students. We appeal to all and sundry, people of good mind and the Students' Union Leaders to join us in reaching the authorities in charge while We call on the rescue mission Government and the management of NDDC to look into this matter for a stitch in time they say, saves nine. We are really suffering!

Imo Must be better!
IMSU must be great!

© Please Share widely until it gets to the authorities in charge!

Members of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (NAPED), Isiala Mbano chapter, were on the receiving end of magnanimity exhibited by one Micheal Chukwu, a young businessman, last Friday.

The physically challenged persons were presented with a cash gift of One Hundred Thousand Naira (100,000) by the good spirited Nigerian who promised to continuously support the down trodden in the society.

Mr Chukwu, who bears the nickname, INFINITY, made the donation in support of the physically challenged persons at the official handover of a brand new Mitsubishi Bus donated to the association by Mr Ogemdi Ibeawuchi, at Eziama, in Isiala Mbano Local Government of Imo State.

Similarly, the Lagos based business tycoon, had two weeks ago, showered magnanimity on windows numbering over 50 from his community by giving them bags of rice and other food items, much to the delight of the women.

Speaking at the event, the soft spoken gentleman revealed that his mother is a widow.
Sighting his mother's agony and experiences after the untimely loss of her husband, the philanthropist noted that the challenges which his mother faced made him grow compassion for the widows and other less privileged people.

Mr Chukwu, who wished to make the empowerment an annual event, prayed for God's grace to enable him provide succour to the needy, always.

He quickly dismissed any political undertone in his humanitarian deeds, while urging other financially stable youths to see reasons to support the down trodden in the society.

In appreciation, one of the widows, who wants to maintain anonymous, rained blessing on Mr Chukwu for his show of love to them.
She hailed him as 'Hope of the Hopeless', saying that his gesture has raised their spirits.

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