₦airaland Forum

...Reiterates committment to inclusive governance

*Inaugurates projects executed by Nkanu East Chairman

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has reassured the people of the state that his administration will soon reel out its grassroots-based programme that will be all-inclusive and ensure that everybody is carried along in terms of political appointments and participations.

Gov. Ugwuanyi spoke at Amagunze, the headquarters of Nkanu East Local Government Area, during the inauguration of some development projects executed by the Chairman of the council, Hon. Ikechukwu Ubagu and the formal reception of the Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu East Senatorial District, Prince Lawrence Eze, back to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He reiterated his administration's committment to inclusive governance in the state.

The governor commended Hon. Ubagu for the good works he has done in the council and welcomed Prince Eze and his teeming supporters back to the PDP family.

Eze decamped from PDP to the APC in the last election, where he contested the Enugu East Senatorial seat.

The projects inaugurated by Gov. Ugwuanyi include the state-of-the-art 1,500-seater pavillion and administrative block of the council executed by the Council Chairman and the Nkanu East PDP Local Government secretariat built by the party Chairman, Prince Emeka Nwatu with the support of the party stakeholders.

Gov. Ugwuanyi who stated that the era of politics is over, maintained that what is paramount at the moment is how to move the state forward and ensure the sustenance of the existing peace and good governance in the state.

Noting that the PDP is growing from strength to strength, the governor thanked all those who are working hard for the party and government, saying: "Very soon we will move to the electoral wards to recognize people to make sure that everybody is carried along".

He appreciated in a special way the stakeholders of Nkanu East LGA for their support and cooperation, assuring them that he has not taken such gesture for granted.

Earlier in his speech, Chairman of Nkanu East LGA, Hon. Ubagu while welcoming Gov. Ugwuanyi to the council applauded him for his support and encouragement, stressing that the feats his administration recorded was as a result of the governor's uncommon leadership qualities and his special love for their people.

The chairman who announced the council's decision to name the pavillion after the governor, as "His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi Pavillion", explained that it was in recognition of his support and contributions to the development of the area.

Prince Eze, who was handed over to the State Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani by the LG party Chairman, Prince Nwatu after the Chairman of PDP in Mburubu Ward, Obinna Egbo, introduced him and announced his return to the PDP, said that "PDP runs in me".

The returnee pointed out that he is "a worthy son" of Gov. Ugwuanyi and thanked God for using the governor as "an instrument to unite Enugu State".

Prince Eze who promised to bring back more of his supporters to the PDP family, reassured the governor and other party leaders of his loyalty and support.

Other dignitaries at the event include the Deputy Minority Leader of the Federal House of Representatives and member, representing Aninri/Awgu/Oji River Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu, member, representing Nkanu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, Hon. Prince Cornelius Nnaji, Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor, Rt. Hon. Princess Peace Nnaji, Chief Evaristus Nnaji (Odengene), etc.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

https://dailypost.ng/2019/12/01/gov-ugwuanyi-receives-apc-candidate-back-to-pdp/amp/

…As govt donates fund to fire victims

Traders at Tinker Motor Spare Parts Market, Coal Camp, Enugu, have applauded Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for the effectiveness, efficiency and professionalism of the state fire service in putting out the fire that burnt a section of the market in the early hours of Friday, without any loss of life.

Expressing their feelings when Gov. Ugwuanyi visited the scene shortly after the incident occurred and donated the sum of N5 million, the traders who spoke through the chairman of the market, Chief Crescent Ugwuoke, told the governor that “these men of the state fire service you have upgraded and prepared for emergency work saved us today”.

Chief Ugwuoke thanked God that no life was lost, stressing that the fire would have caused more damage if the state fire service did not respond swiftly.

“Your Excellency, because of the way you prepared the fire service officials, when they were called, they responded quickly and they are the people who made it possible for us to be here.

“So, we are sincerely grateful to you for your quick response to see things for yourself. We pray that God will continue to bless you in Jesus name. Amen”, the chairman said.

Speaking, the State Chief Fire Officer, Engr. Okwudiri Ohaa, who stated that the feat his agency recorded in putting out the fire was a confirmation that “Enugu State is in the hands of God”, equally attributed it to “the type of support the governor has been giving to us”.

Engr. Ohaa explained that despite accessibility issue encountered at the market, “we were able to maneuver and put out the fire”.

He advised the traders to stop dumping refuse in the area, which he said was the cause of the fire, reassuring them of the state government’s commitment to safety of lives and property.

In her remark, the Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mrs. Nkechi Eneh, who was represented by the Head of Department, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mrs. Chinasa Mbah, harped on the need for people to be cautious this dry season, urging the traders to avoid dumping of refuse in the area as well as ensure that their environment is cleaned up regularly.

The chairman of Enugu North LGA, Hon. Emma Onoh, who received the governor on arrival, thanked him for his prompt visit and deep concern for the wellbeing of the people.

Hon. Onoh pointed out that the governor had exhibited similar gesture when such incident occurred in other markets, thanking God for “all the good things he (governor) is doing in Enugu State”.

Empathizing with the traders, Gov. Ugwuanyi who first thanked God that the fire was put out without any loss of life or much damage to property, also appreciated those who assisted the fire service.

The governor announced the state government’s donation of the sum of five million naira (N5,000,000.00) to assist the affected traders, asking the chairman of the market to apply for the money and thereafter organize a meeting to deliberate on how to compensate the victims.

He, therefore, appealed to the traders to avoid actions that could lead to such occurrence.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

…As govt donates fund to fire victims

Traders at Tinker Motor Spare Parts Market, Coal Camp, Enugu, have applauded Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for the effectiveness, efficiency and professionalism of the state fire service in putting out the fire that burnt a section of the market in the early hours of Friday, without any loss of life.

Expressing their feelings when Gov. Ugwuanyi visited the scene shortly after the incident occurred and donated the sum of N5 million, the traders who spoke through the chairman of the market, Chief Crescent Ugwuoke, told the governor that “these men of the state fire service you have upgraded and prepared for emergency work saved us today”.

Chief Ugwuoke thanked God that no life was lost, stressing that the fire would have caused more damage if the state fire service did not respond swiftly.

“Your Excellency, because of the way you prepared the fire service officials, when they were called, they responded quickly and they are the people who made it possible for us to be here.

“So, we are sincerely grateful to you for your quick response to see things for yourself. We pray that God will continue to bless you in Jesus name. Amen”, the chairman said.

Speaking, the State Chief Fire Officer, Engr. Okwudiri Ohaa, who stated that the feat his agency recorded in putting out the fire was a confirmation that “Enugu State is in the hands of God”, equally attributed it to “the type of support the governor has been giving to us”.

Engr. Ohaa explained that despite accessibility issue encountered at the market, “we were able to maneuver and put out the fire”.

He advised the traders to stop dumping refuse in the area, which he said was the cause of the fire, reassuring them of the state government’s commitment to safety of lives and property.

In her remark, the Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mrs. Nkechi Eneh, who was represented by the Head of Department, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mrs. Chinasa Mbah, harped on the need for people to be cautious this dry season, urging the traders to avoid dumping of refuse in the area as well as ensure that their environment is cleaned up regularly.

The chairman of Enugu North LGA, Hon. Emma Onoh, who received the governor on arrival, thanked him for his prompt visit and deep concern for the wellbeing of the people.

Hon. Onoh pointed out that the governor had exhibited similar gesture when such incident occurred in other markets, thanking God for “all the good things he (governor) is doing in Enugu State”.

Empathizing with the traders, Gov. Ugwuanyi who first thanked God that the fire was put out without any loss of life or much damage to property, also appreciated those who assisted the fire service.

The governor announced the state government’s donation of the sum of five million naira (N5,000,000.00) to assist the affected traders, asking the chairman of the market to apply for the money and thereafter organize a meeting to deliberate on how to compensate the victims.

He, therefore, appealed to the traders to avoid actions that could lead to such occurrence.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

…To honour indigene who returned recovered money

The Enugu State Executive Council (EXCO) in continuation of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi administration’s urban and rural development drive and commitment to improved living standard of the people, yesterday, took far reaching decisions aimed at actualizing fully the state government’s agenda for the state.

Briefing newsmen after the EXCO meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, stated that the council awarded contract for the rehabilitation of Orie Market-Nkwo Ida-Afor Inyi road junction in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area at the cost of 295,377,187.88.

Aroh, who briefed newsmen alongside the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji and their Budget and Economic Planning counterpart, Dr. David Ngwunta, added that the council also approved the rehabilitation/construction of Ekulumili Street, New Haven, Enugu and access/internal roads at St. Theresa’s Cathedral, Nsukka, at the sum of N69,470,940.00 and N80,198,233.50, respectively.

Also awarded was the Onuiyi Beach-Umuano-Ibagwa Road, Nsukka, which the information commissioner noted had been awarded earlier, but was cancelled and rewarded by the council at the cost of N275,774,481.29.

Aroh, who disclosed that the council specifically deliberated extensively on the 2020 budget proposal which will be present to the State Assembly soon, added that it also approved the sum of N1,518,682,000.00 as the state government’s counterpart fund for the Universal Basic Education scheme to enable it access the federal government funds for the construction and renovation of more primary and junior secondary school buildings in the state.

Also approved according to the information commissioner was the sum of N100 million for the Ministry of Agriculture as logistics for the branding and marketing of Coal City Rice to be purchased from registered local farmers in the state at a standardized price, which will be sold to the public at a fair and affordable price “especially at this festive period”.

Aroh, who noted the state government has a long-term plan for massive rice milling and processing, explained that the council’s decision to act as “off-taker” for the rice produced by the farmers is to encourage and protect their businesses, stressing that “we have provided the enabling environment for the production of rice”.

He added that the council after discussion with the leadership of the Organized Labour in the state set up a joint committee to deal with the issues arising from the consequential adjustment of the new Minimum Wage, to be headed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya.

According to him, “we have five representatives of the state government and five representatives of the labour. The committee is charged to immediately consider all issues arising from the new Minimum Wage; agree on consequential adjustment to the salaries and wages of workers and also consider the realities of implementation of this consequential adjustment in line with our known practice of paying salaries regularly and also the 13th month salary”.

The council upon consideration of a memo from the Ministry of Education, equally approved the immediate upgrade of facilities at Boy’s High School Orba and Youth Centre Mpu, Aninri LGA for the full take off as Army Command Science School and Army Command Technical College, respectively.

Aroh further disclosed that the council awarded contract for perimeter fencing of all the Magistrate and High Courts in the state and approved a proposal for infrastructural development of 24 hectares of land acquired by the State Ministry of Housing for housing projects “to be described as Independence Layout phase two extension, Enugu”.

The housing proposal, which is in line with the state government’s drive to provide more affordable houses for the people of the state, according to Aroh, was presented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Ikenna Nwodo together with the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Obiora Onugwu.

The information commissioner revealed that the council “considered with great joy and approved a reception in honour of Mrs. Josephine Ugwu, an indigene of Enugu State, Obukpa in Nsukka LGA precisely, and a staff of Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) who recently received a presidential handshake and an integrity certificate award from the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) for her honesty and dedication to work, having returned various sums of money she recovered while on duty including the latest twelve thousand US dollars.

“In recognition of this good feat and in our commitment to continue to encourage people to live honest life, believing that honesty is rewarded in all things, the state government has approved the reception in her honour and to give her a certificate of honour and integrity to show its support and happiness with her display of honesty”, Aroh said.

On the budget, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Ngwunta, further explained that the EXCO will reconvene on Monday to tidy up the processes, pointing out that “we had a stakeholder forum, on Tuesday, where the stakeholders from the CSOs, the traditional rulers and presidents-general made inputs in the 2020 budget proposal”.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

https://dailypost.ng/2019/11/29/enugu-govt-approves-n2-4-billion-for-road-school-projects/

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Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Wednesday, embarked on inspection tour of the Enugu residence of the former Premier of the Eastern Region, Governor General and first President of Nigeria, the late Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, recently renovated by his administration and furnished/decorated with personal effects of the Nigerian statesman as a monument and rich heritage of the state.

It would be recalled that Gov. Ugwuanyi, in his first term in office, paid the first official visit by a sitting governor to the Onuiyi residence of the foremost nationalist and great son of Igboland, Dr. Azikiwe, in the University town of Nsukka, since after his death in 1996, where he promised renovation of Zik's Lodge at Enugu, to serve as a monument and tourist attraction.

Gov. Ugwuanyi was led round the renovated and well-equipped edifice by Zik's son, Mr. Uwakwe Azikiwe, who incidentally is the governor's Special Adviser on Special Duties - an encounter that reawakened memories of the sage’s political activities during the First Republic.

The governor was also accompanied by the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Hon. Augustine Nnamani, among others.

Enugu State is in the hands of God. ##

British Airways flight heading to Abuja from London on Tuesday returned to Heathrow Airport after the plane lost one of its engines mid-air.

The airline confirmed that BA 083 flight returned to Heathrow and was met by emergency services as a precaution measure after what it called “a minor technical issue.”

In a mail sent to THISDAY, the airline said, “For your information, the aircraft experienced a minor technical issue and our pilots elected to return to Heathrow.

“In terms of the emergency services meeting the aircraft, this is standard practice.

“Our teams looked after our customers last night, providing them with overnight accommodation. We’re sorry to our customers for the delay to their travel plans.”

http://saharareporters.com/2019/11/27/british-airways-flight-heading-abuja-loses-engine-mid-air

Lalsticlala

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Breaking!

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, this evening, inspected the ongoing rehabilitation of the runway of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to assess the level of work done so far by the construction company handling the project (PW), in keeping with his administration's commitment to the completion of the all-important project.

Picture One:

ENUGU AIRPORT INSPECTION: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State (3rd left) interacting with the Manager, Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, Mrs. Cecilia Oguama (middle), Project Manager, PW, Mr. Mahbub khan, (2nd left), State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani (left) and others, when the governor inspected the ongoing rehabilitation of the airport runway, on Wednesday.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

…Okays fire safety training for officials, traders



Determined to ensure safety of lives and property of residents of Enugu State this dry season, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has approved the immediate installation of one thousand two hundred and ninety (1,290) units of fire extinguishers in twenty three (23) major markets and other fire-prone locations in the state.


In a statement by the Chief Fire Officer, Enugu State Fire Service, Engr. Okwudiri Daniel Ohaa, the approval was part of the proactive measures adopted by the state government to checkmate any incidence of fire in the markets and other fire prone areas.


Engr. Ohaa added that the governor “in his magnanimity also approved fire safety training for officials and traders in these 23 major markets and some other fire-prone locations in the state”.

Confirming that the fire extinguishers have been procured for onward installation, the Chief Fire Officer stated that the benefiting markets include Ogbete Main Market Enugu, Ogige Market Nsukka, Orba Modern Market and Timber Shed Market Maryland Enugu.

Others are Ariaria New Market Enugu, Afor Awkunanaw Market Gariki, Obollo Afor Market, Afor Opi Market, Eke Agbani Market, Abakpa General Market, 9th Mile Market and Promised Land Tanker Park at Emene, etc.

The Chief Fire Officer further stated that “this approval is the outcome of the Fire Risk Assessment of Major Markets in Enugu embarked upon by the State Fire Service, in line with Gov. Ugwuanyi's directives”.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, today, kicked off the 2019 IBSA Blind Football African Championships, taking place at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

Nigeria, Egypt, Mali, Cote D'voire, Cameroun, Libya, Niger Republic and the defending Champions, Morocco, are participating in the football competition for the blind.

The sporting event is being powered by Bina Foundation, Enugu - a Non Governmental Organisation ( NGO) that cares for physically challenged people with special needs.

The first match between Star Eagles Blind Football of Nigeria and their Camerounian counterpart, which was kicked off by Gov. Ugwuanyi, ended 2-1 in favour of Nigeria.

President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province (Anglican Communion), Super Eagles Coach, Gernot Rohr, Chairman, World Blind Football Championships, Mr. Ulrich Pfixterer, Sir Chris Atuegwu of Bina Foundation and his wife, Ifeoma, who is the President/Founder of the organisation, were among the dignitaries at the event.

Enugu State is in the hands of God. ##

Former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has expressed delight at the uncommon leadership style of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, in fostering peace and unity among the political class in the state irrespective of party differences.

Ex-President Jonathan, who described Gov. Ugwunayi as a man of peace said the governor’s disposition in relating with members of the opposition political parties, after winning the election, was commendable and the best approach to governance.

Speaking when the governor treated him to a dinner at the Government House, Enugu, after delivering the Anniversary Lecture at the 10thanniversary celebration and sixth and seventh convocation ceremonies of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, yesterday, former President Jonathan stressed that Ugwuanyi’s inclusive governance style is a rare feat other leaders should emulate to move their constituencies forward.

“If you are the governor of a state, you must treat all the citizens equally, irrespective of their political persuasions, otherwise you are not a good governor”, Jonathan said.

While urging members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to continue to encourage the governor in his peace initiatives, the former President maintained that “we need peace and unity if we want rapid development”.

The ex-President, who expressed happiness over Ugwuanyi’s unprecedented performance during the last election, stated that the governor scored higher percentage of votes in his second term election than in the first term, thanking God that the PDP made the right choice in 2015.

His words: “In most cases as presidents and governors, their second term election is tougher because when you are coming for the first term, there is so much enthusiasm, so much hope by the people. But it is almost difficult to meet the needs of the people.

“So in your second term election, you may win but with less votes. But he (Ugwuanyi) even won with higher votes than in the first election. Today (yesterday) when we went to the university, the community leader spoke about him as a man of peace and from all the information I have gotten since I came, they are not flattering, they are making the correct statement.

“I am happy when I listened to the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo that in his administration (Ugwuanyi's) he has seen no difference between APC and PDP or any other party. That is commendable and I always tell people, when you become the President or the governor or the chairman, you are not a governor of your party, you are the governor of your state. So I looked back when we all wanted him and I thank God we made the right choice”.

In their separate remarks, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo and the Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu, welcomed the former president to the state and appreciated him for his contributions towards the development of the country as well as his kind disposition to the people of the South East geo political zone when he was in office.

Also present at the event were the Chairman, House Committee on Aviation, Hon. Nnoli Nnaji; State Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani; Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu; leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu; other members of the House; members of the State Executive Council (EXCO), Special Advisers and others.



https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/jonathan-lauds-enugu-governor-over-quality-leadership/&ved=2ahUKEwjqlP2n1IPmAhXTnFwKHbaZDxoQFjAAegQIBBAB&usg=AOvVaw0mAmGNsRIoR2B9wl7_Het7

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Enugu State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, this evening, treated former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and his entourage, to a memorable dinner at the Government House, Enugu.

Former President Jonathan is in Enugu for the 10th anniversary celebration and sixth and seventh convocation ceremonies of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, which held today at the university's permanent site, Ugwuomu Nike, where he delivered the Anniversary Lecture.

The dinner witnessed the display of the prestigious Igede dance by Enugu State cultural troupe, which spurred the former President, the governor and other dignitaries including the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH, Igwe Amb Lawrence Agubuzu, the Paramount Rulers of Okpume town and Emakalakala town in Bayelsa State, HRH King A. J Turner and HRH King Iboro Adaba respectively, to take to the dance floor.

Details of the event later....

Gov. Ugwuanyi Bags Honorary Degree Award

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, was at today's 10th anniversary celebration and sixth and seventh convocation ceremonies of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, conferred with the award of Doctor of Political Science (DPS), Honoris Causa in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the growth and development of one of the fastest growing private universities in Nigeria.

It would recalled that Gov. Ugwuanyi's administration recently approved and released the sum of N500 million to the university to assist it in the construction of the 12-kilometre road to its permanent site, at Ugwuomu Nike and went further to donate a 500-KVA transformer to the institution, among other remarkable interventions.

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, who was present at the epoch-making event, delivered the 10th Anniversary Lecture.

Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto State and the former Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Dr. Julius Okojie, were also recipients of Honorary Degrees, in appreciation of their support for the Catholic university.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

AirPeace CEO Allen Onyema, has denied all fraud allegations by the USAZ, stating that they are false and are in no way in line with his character as a person and as a business man whose only aim has been to build Nigeria and improve wellbeing.

“As the press statement clearly stated, these are indictment that only contains charges. I am innocent of all charges and the US government will find no dirt on me because I have never conducted business with any illegalities.


“Be rest assured that I also have my lawyers on this and these mere allegations will be refuted. I never laundered money in my life, neither have I committed bank fraud anywhere in the world. Every Kobo I transferred to the US for aircraft purchase went through the Central Bank of Nigeria LC regime and all were used for the same purpose.

“The American companies that received the funds are still in business. I never took a penny from any US bank or Nigerian bank. I am willing to defend my innocence in the US courts,” Onyema stated.

The US Attorneys office in Georgia had alleged that the Chairman, CEO, and founder of Air Peace, a Nigerian airline, has been involved with bank fraud and money laundering for moving more than $20 million from Nigeria through United States bank accounts in a scheme allegedly involving false documents based on the purchase of airplanes.

https://businessday.ng/news/article/onyema-denies-us-fraud-allegations-says-all-money-transferred-went-through-cbn/

· Urges support, prayers for gov's success

. Says his relationship with Ugwuanyi resumes

Senator Ayogu Eze of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the leadership qualities of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as exceptional.

Senator Eze, who contested the governorship election in the last poll, said that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s humility and ability to reach to the opposition to make peace at all cost has rekindled the long standing relationship between him and the governor.

Speaking at the funeral service for his father-in-law, late Pastor Cyril Odoh Ugwuoke, held at Ogrute, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, which was attended by Gov. Ugwuanyi and other dignitaries, Senator Eze pointed out that the governor's presence at the event and his continued show of solidarity and support were uncommon in the political annals of the country.

He disclosed that the governor has made efforts, since after the elections, to ensure that the prior relationship that had existed between both of them before the electoral contest was maintained and stressed that his presence at the event has proved that in so many ways.

Senator Eze therefore declared that the relationship between him and Gov. Ugwuanyi "has resumed".

Commending Gov. Ugwuanyi for his good works as well as the renewed vigour to deliver on his promises, he prayed that God gives him the wisdom to continue with the good works and reach higher levels.

His words: "The day Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi came to see me, tears came to my eyes. I told him there that his humility and ability to reach out to make peace at all cost is exceptional. I told him, you are much better in reaching out and building networks".

Senator Eze who asked those he offended in the course of the electoral exercise to forgive him, advised his supporters to close ranks and support Gov. Ugwuanyi and his administration, saying: "He (Ugwuanyi) has won the election; he is our governor; our friendship continues as family members despite fact that I belong to APC.”

Further according to him, "Let us forget about party politics for now. Let us remain brothers and relate together. God will give the governor the wisdom to continue the good work he is doing in Enugu State and take him to higher levels".

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

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…As minister embarks on fact-finding mission to sites

The Minister of State, Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, has disclosed the readiness of the federal government to revive the coal mines in Enugu State to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the country as well as the state.

Addressing newsmen after a meeting with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi at the Government House, Enugu, on Friday, Dr. Ogah, who came with a delegation from the ministry, stated that they are in Enugu on a fact-finding mission with regard to “what is already on ground, what the federal government has done and what we can do to revive the coal mines in Enugu State so that they can help grow the economy and generate jobs”.

The minister disclosed that the step was in line with the vision of the President Muhammadu Buhari to pull “over one million people out of poverty”, stressing that “we believe that mining sector is one of the key areas that can be used to do that”.

Commending Gov. Ugwuanyi for his administration steadfastness and collaboration with the federal government towards the resuscitation of coal mines in the state, Dr. Ogah pointed out that “Enugu State stands in a right pedestal to be one of the key states that will be used for this purpose”.

He added that the federal government is determined to address the challenges hindering the full operation of coal mining in Enugu State so that every royalty due to it and the state is realized.

“We thank God for the partnership we are having today with the state government to curb illegal mining and other factors hindering progress. The governor has promised there will be stronger collaboration between the state and the federal government to see how illegal mining will be curbed in the state”, the minister said.

https://dailypost.ng/2019/11/22/fg-moves-to-revive-enugu-coal-mines-as-minister-embarks-on-fact-finding-mission-to-sites/amp/

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, this evening, honoured Senator Ayogu Eze with his presence at the Virgil Service for Senator Eze's late father-in-law, Pastor Cyril Okechukwu Ugwuoke, who died at the age of 81.

Late Ugwuoke's funeral service will take place tomorrow, Friday, November 22, at Township School 1, Ogrute, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area. Time: 12noon.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! # #

Two Years Anniversary: Enugu govt immortalizes late Ekwueme

…Renames street after former VP

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, yesterday, immortalized the late former Vice President of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme, by renaming the popular Ezikwo Street in Independence Layout, Enugu, to “Dr. Alex Ekwueme Street”.

In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, the decision was in commemoration of the second anniversary of the death of Dr. Ekwueme - the Ide of Oko Kingdom in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State - who passed on November 19, 2017.

The statement described late former Vice President as a “passionate patriot, foremost statesman, committed nationalist, uncommon leader, distinguished scholar, political bridge-builder, outstanding manager of men and materials and a quintessential gentleman”.

It added that the Enugu State Government will continue to celebrate the life and times of the icon of peace and national unity “who bestrode our political, intellectual and social spaces like a colossus in many ways”.

The statement by the SSG disclosed that the state government has directed the Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area to “immediately rename Ezikwo Street, Independence Layout, Enugu, to Dr. Alex Ekwueme Street, Independence Layout, Enugu” and ensure the implementation.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! # #

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-east/364309-enugu-govt-immortalizes-late-ekwueme.html

To save cost of governance and ensure that guests of the state government are suitably accommodated in a secure and conducive environment, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi's administration in Enugu State, late last year, awarded contract for the construction of ten (10) units of Executive Guest House at the old Governor's Lodge, GRA, Enugu.

Approval for the project was given adequate attention by the State Executive Council (EXCO) considering that Enugu, as the historic capital of Eastern Region, old Anambra State, old Enugu State and the capital of the present Enugu State, with influx of dignitaries on varied official engagements, has never had a guest house for its visitors being lodged in hotels at government's expense.

The state-of-the-art ten-unit guest house which stands out as a legacy project is nearing completion, to be deployed for its purpose in line with the state government's commitment to prudent management of resources and hospitality.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

Bayelsa Election: David Lyon Leads Duoye Diri 590,937 To 156,464 Votes

As seen on TvC news as at 9pm November 17

BAYELSA

Governorship election result

Southern Ijaw LGA

APC - 124, 803

PDP - 4, 898

https://twitter.com/NTANewsNow/status/1196150270553706498?s=19

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Monday lashed out at the association of newspaper owners in the country, reprimanding them for allegedly deploying their “platform to pursue personal interests.”


In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, the anti-graft agency said the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, NPAN, wrongly accused it of attempting to stifle free press in raiding the head office of The Sun Newspapers last week.


The anti-graft agency was responding to an advert which NPAN placed in THISDAY and Leadership Newspapers Monday, condemning the June 12 presence of anti-graft operatives at The Sun office, which is located in Apapa, Lagos.


“The manner of the invasion tends to suggest that the EFCC was out on a self-help mission, a voyage to intimidate journalists, criminalise journalism and cower free speech,” Mr. Uwujaren quoted the advertorial as stating.


The ‘invasion’ was also condemned by the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors who asked the anti-graft agency to apologise for its action.


The EFCC, however, denied the charge of media clampdown, saying NPAN was out to whip up undue sentiments for its own aggrandisement.



Mr. Uwujaren took specific aim at the NPAN boss, Nduka Obaigbena, stating that the newspaper proprietor was trying to seize the situation as a way of getting back at the agency’s acting chairman, Ibrahim Magu.


The EFCC briefly detained Mr. Obaigbena in 2016 over allegations that the journalist benefited from the $2.1 billion arms purchase scandal that rocked the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.


Mr. Obaigbena admitted he received up to N670 million from Sambo Dasuki, the former National Security Adviser at the heart of the alleged arms procurement fraud, but said a large chunk of it was meant as compensation for the 2012 Boko Haram attack at THISDAY bureau in Abuja.


Mr. Uwujaren, in his latest statement, said Mr. Obaigbena was still reeling from the action the anti-graft agency took against him last year, but said Mr. Magu will not be deterred in his quest to contain sharp practices across all sectors.


“If the EFCC has committed any sin against Obaigbena and some members of NPAN, it was in carrying out its statutory mandate of fighting corruption and ensuring that impunity was checked,” Mr. Uwujaren said. “It is no secret that some NPAN members are yet to forgive the Commission for the money recovered from them in the course of the ONSA investigation.”


“Nigeria is bigger than any individual and NPAN must be mindful not to allow members to hijack its platform to pursue personal interests,” he added.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/234554-efcc-tackles-nigerian-newspaper-owners-attacks-thisdays-obaigbena.html

Election results announced so far by the Independent National Electoral Commission in the Kogi West senatorial rerun election show that PDP’s Dino Melaye is poised to lose his seat in the Senate to his closest rival, Smart Adeyemi of the APC.

Of the seven local government areas in the senatorial district, five have been announced.

Of the five local government results announced, Mr Adeyemi has polled a total of 52,389 while Mr Melaye trails with 37,856.

The former won in all of Kaba Bunnu, Kogi Koton Karfe, Mopa Muro and Ijumu. Mr Melaye, however, scooped the highest votes in one LGA, Yagba East LGA.

Messrs Adeyemo and Delays are both from Ijumu

With the sail in Mr Adeyemi’s favour, Mr Melaye needs to cover up for the deficit of 14,533 votes in the two remaining local government areas that are yet to be announced by INEC.

These local government areas are Yabgba West and Lokoja LGAs.

The elections in Kogi West, like in a large part of the state, was characterized by violence.

Below is the breakdown of how both candidates fared in the five local governments announced so far.

Kaba Bunnu

APC — 15,037

PDP — 8,974

Kogi Koton Karfe

APC — 14,168

PDP — 9,786

Mopa Muro

APC — 4,874

PDP — 3,704

Ijumu

APC — 11,627

PDP — 7,647

Yagba East

APC — 6,683

PDP — 7,745

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/north-central/363718-kogidecides-with-two-lgs-remaining-dino-melaye-trails-smart-adeyemi.html

A collation officer of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kogi state on Sunday presented a N50,000 bribe politicians offered to a presiding officer in Igalamela-Odolu local government area of the state during Saturday’s election.

There was widespread financial inducement by politicians during the election.

The collation officer presented the money at the INEC headquarters in the state while submitting the result of the local government he coordinated.

https://www.thecable.ng/just-in-collation-officer-in-kogi-presents-n50k-bribe-offered-by-politicians/amp

Gov. Ugwuanyi inspects ongoing construction of Enugu State Secretariat annex (Block A) at Nsukka...

Picture One:

Enugu State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (in white) climbing a makeshift staircase, popularly known as "Man-Wakka" to inspect the ongoing construction of the State Secretariat annex at Ede-Oballa, Nsukka Local Government Area, on Wednesday.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

The new Commissioner for Local Government Affairs in Enugu State, Barr. Peter Okonkwo, said his ministry, under the watch of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, is poised to re-focus the primary assignment of the Local Government administration in the state in order to make it more formidable and impactful on the lives of the rural dwellers.

Barr. Okonkwo added that his ministry, which is saddled with the responsibility of supervising the activities of the local government councils, is focused on ensuring that every council in the state actualizes tangible development projects that would stand the test of time.

The commissioner stated that the issue of the council chairmen executing capital projects on ground that will be enduring and outlive them is sacrosanct in this second term of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in line with its rural development agenda.

He disclosed that the local government system will pay more attention to primary healthcare delivery, as the custodian of the people in the rural areas, to ensure that the lofty visions of the state government in the health sector, such as the Universal Health Coverage, are fully actualized for the benefit of the masses.

“Our principal agenda is to create a stronger synergy so that there will be a more effective relationship between the state and the local governments. We will engage them in partnership arrangement. The focal point of this administration is grassroots-based.

“The state government will leverage on its firm commitment to the provision of infrastructure in the rural communities as well as general wellbeing of the dwellers, to create synergy and ensure that the activities of the local governments are repositioned for utmost positive impact on the people”, Barr. Okonkwo said.

...Felicitates with Buhari, other Muslim faithful

As Muslim faithful commemorate this year's Eid-el-Maulud, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, has called on all Nigerians to remain prayerful for the sustenance of peace, unity and progress of the country.

In a goodwill message, Gov. Ugwuanyi felicitated with President Muhammadu Buhari and other Muslim faithful, noting that the Islamic event was remarkable and reinvigorates the virtues of faith, sacrifice, obedience, love, tolerance, charity and peaceful co-existence, which are the deeds and teachings of Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The governor, therefore, stressed that Nigerians' collective faith in God and sustained prayers for peace, unity and progress of the country, remain the ultimate goal for the full realization of the nation's founding fathers' dreams and aspirations.

He wished all Nigerians a peaceful and pleasant celebration.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! # #

Commends Ugwuanyi’s support

*Says airport will be best in the country

The Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, Thursday said that the Federal Government has mobilized the contractor (PW) handling the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the runway and other facilities in the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to site, preparatory to commencement of work.

It will be recalled that the Enugu airport was closed barely three months ago for the repairs of the runway and other renovations, following concerns raised about the safety of lives and property.

Addressing newsmen after a meeting with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State at the Government House, Enugu, the Minister of Aviation, stated that he was in the state alongside the Managing Director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Capt. Hamisu Rabiu Yadudu, the Chairman, House Committee on Aviation, Hon. Nnoli Nnaji and others, to interact with the contractor “to see the level of preparation for the work and review the programme to ensure that he delivers the runway within the time we agreed”.

Reconfirming that the airport will be reopened before Easter, Senator Sirika commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for “the tremendous support, show of concern and participation in what we are doing to deliver this airport”.

According to him, “he (Ugwuanyi) has done everything we have asked the state government to do. We commend him also for those tough decisions that he took in overriding public interest. I think he is bold enough, courageous enough and his show of support and love for his people cannot be quantified”.

Senator Sirika, who disclosed that the Federal Government is committed to ensure that the Enugu Airport “will be the best airport in the country” after the rehabilitation, added that “it will be the most efficient and most modernized airport”.

The minister said that President Muhammadu Buhari has promised to continue to fund the new Enugu International Terminal which is being handled by CCECC, a Chinese company, reiterating his promise to be visiting Enugu regularly to supervise and ensure that the Federal Government delivers on the airport.

Senator Sirika equally appreciated the House Committee chairman on Aviation, Hon. Nnaji, for his diligence, persistence and immense contributions to the project, especially the budgetary allocation.

The minister, who pointed out that the economy of Enugu as well as the state was “very central and pivotal to this part of the country”, maintained that “we take it seriously and we must ensure that it (Enugu) continues to play that central role it is playing”.

His words: “I want to assure Nigerians that this procurement, the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Enugu airport runway and the existing buildings and other associated works will be delivered efficiently in good time, transparently and prudently”.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State this evening received in audience the new British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing and her entourage at the Government House, Enugu.

The High Commissioner, who described Enugu as "a very lovely state", had fruitful interactions with Gov. Ugwuanyi on how to further the existing socio-economic relationship between the state and the United kingdom.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

As the Christmas season approaches, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has called on the chairmen of the seventeen (17) local government areas, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in the state to be on the alert and intensify efforts to ensure security of lives and property of the people during the festivity.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Chuks Ugwoke, Gov. Ugwuanyi further enjoined the Neighbourhood Watch groups and Forest Guards to complement the efforts of the security agencies in ensuring the safety of the people and protection of their property.

The governor further called on the residents of the state to “remain peaceful and law-abiding in their activities during the Christmas season and at all times”.

He, therefore, reassured the people of the state of his administration’s commitment towards ensuring a crime-free Yuletide celebration in the state in line with her enviable status as one of the safest and most peaceful states in the country.

https://dailypost.ng/2019/11/06/yuletide-ugwuanyi-tasks-council-chairmen-security-agencies-on-alertness/amp/