₦airaland Forum

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Tuesday, swore in Hon. Justice Afojulu Raymond Ozoemena as the substantive Chief Judge of the State after he served as Acting Chief Judge for three months on two consecutive occasions.

Hon. Justice Ozoemena’s appointments on acting capacity by Gov. Ugwuanyi was sequel to the retirement of the former Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Priscilla Ngozi Emehelu, who attained the constitutionally prescribed retirement age of 65 years on September 7, 2021.

The governor explained that the decision to swear in Hon. Justice Ozoemena as Acting Chief Judge of Enugu State on September 7, 2021 and the renewal of the appointment on December 8, 2021 upon the expiration of the first three months, was based on the order of seniority of the Judges of Enugu High Court as confirmed by the National Judicial Council (NJC).

Swearing in Hon. Justice Ozoemena as the Chief Judge of Enugu State, at the EXCO Chamber of the Government House, Enugu, on Tuesday, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that the function was sequel to the recommendation by the National Judicial Council (NJC) and subsequent confirmation of his appointment by the Enugu State House of Assembly, in fulfillment of the provisions of Section 271 Sub-section 1 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Stating that he swore in Hon. Justice Ozoemena as the Chief Judge of Enugu State after all the conditions precedent for the appointment was dutifully fulfilled, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who described the exercise as “God’s will, made manifest at God’s own time”, congratulated the newly sworn in Chief Judge.

The governor pointed out the Hon. Justice Ozoemena is eminently qualified for the job, expressing confidence that “you will bring your juristic erudition, diverse experience and integrity to bear on the administration of the Enugu State Judiciary”.

“I wish you well and pray God to grant you stellar career as the Chief Judge of Enugu State”, Gov. Ugwuanyi added.

Responding, the new Chief Judge of Enugu State, Hon. Justice Ozoemena, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his endurance and consistency in ensuring that he was sworn in as Acting Chief Judge for two consecutive times and thereafter as the substantive Chief Judge of the State.

He therefore promised the governor of the cooperation and support of the State Judiciary under his watch, stressing that they will maintain the tempo of peace and harmonious relationship that exist between the Executive and the Judiciary in the state.

The event was witnessed by the President, Enugu State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice George Nnamani; former Minister of Information and immediate past President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr. Festus Uzor; the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prof. Malachy Okwueze; the State Attorney-General, Chief Miletus Eze; other members of the State Executive Council (EXCO); Special Advisers to the Governor; Judges of the State Judiciary and members of the State Judicial Service Commission, among others.

Update on the ongoing massive projects at the permanent site of ESUT Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine, Igbo Eno, Enugu State, initiated and being executed by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration.

This is to provide quality and affordable healthcare services to all residents of Enugu State, as well as make the state a choice destination for healthcare tourism, despite the nation’s economic challenges as well as the state’s lean resources.

The health facilities made up of two sections of a Teaching Hospital, seating on two floors (the outpatient department of seven sections and in-patient department with 200-bed wards); a College of Medicine comprising 2 units of 12 classroom blocks, 2 units of 10 classroom blocks, 2 units of 8 classroom blocks and 2 units of 208 student-capacity hostel; and provision for the construction of a helicopter landing pad (helipad) reserved for hospital emergency operations, were adjudged as “simply unbelievable” and in line with World Health Organization (WHO) standard, by the Management of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, during their recent validation visit to the site.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Friday, received a Haitian delegation at the Government House, Enugu, amid excitement and fulfillment.

The 10-man Haitian delegation, led by Senator Moise Jean-Charles, were on a home-coming mission to Enugu, the historic capital of Igboland, to perform conventional Igbo rituals such as traditional naming and name adoption, after they traced their roots to Igboland.

Addressing the delegation, Gov. Ugwuanyi represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, delightfully welcomed them to Enugu State in particular and the entire Igboland in general, and commended them for the bold step.

Gov. Ugwuanyi also appreciated them for “keeping a date with history, for following your heart, and for following your roots and getting back to your roots”.

The governor, who stressed the significance of the visit, stated that “today is a new beginning for all of us”.

He added: “We open our doors to you and we are ready as we have demonstrated. We also want you to know that changing your names is in agreement with the Igbo tradition that you have a new name for a new born.

“Today, you are born new in Enugu State and in the land of your fathers. Congratulations!”

In his address, the leader of the delegation, Sen. Jean-Charles, who described the visit to Enugu State as home-coming, rooting back to their origin in Igboland, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for the hospitality accorded to them in the state.

He recounted the affinity of the people and culture of Enugu State and Haiti, revealing that Enugu has five letters as Haiti and that Enugu and Haiti mean cities on top of a hill.

According to the leader of the Haitian delegation, “I have visited many countries, many places around the world but this is the first time I have visited a country that everybody looks like me”.

Sen. Jean-Charles went further to say: “I have not come here as a foreign person. I have come back home. Before I keep on talking, I want to on behalf of all Haitians, all the blocks in Haiti, to thank you (Ugwuanyi) for receiving us after 218 years.

“We have decided that people in the whole continent of Africa and all of us who are there in Haiti is a wind following the bird from the African continent and it has brought bear in America which means all of us are one”.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Ugonna Ibe, the Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu, the immediate past President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo and Ozo (Dr.) Ferdinand Anikwe, gave a historic background of the Haitians and their link with Igbos, applauding the visitors for taking such a bold step in identifying with the people of their origin.

The climaxes of the event were the traditional naming and name adoption by the Haitian delegation, which were performed by Igwe Agubuzu in company of other traditional rulers present, dancing of Igede cultural dance by the visitors, and presentation of souvenirs to them by Enugu State government.

Members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, State Executive Council (EXCO), Special Advisers to the Governor, other top government functionaries and the President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Enugu State Chapter, Prof. Fred Eze witnessed the historic event.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State was at the Michael Okpara Square, Independence Layout, Enugu, on Saturday, to pray and honour the fallen heroes in commemoration of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD).

Gov. Ugwuanyi who on arrival at the venue of the annual event, observed and inspected the Parade mounted by the Military, laid the Remembrance Wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and released the pigeons symbolizing peace, after Christian and Islamic prayers were offered for the repose of the fallen heroes’ souls and the wellbeing of their families.

The governor thereafter identified with wives of the fallen heroes present at the event and announced donation of gift items to them in commemoration of the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

The Wreaths were also laid by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division of the Nigeria Army, Major General T. A. Lagbaja, represented by the Garrison Commander, Brig. Gen. C.A. Ataki; the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Ground Training Command, Nigerian Air Force, Enugu, AVM Ibikunle Daramola; the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; the Acting Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Raymond Ozoemena; the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Abukakar Lawal; the Chairman of Nigerian Legion, Enugu State Council, Asst. Cmdt. General Emeka Norman Igwesi; the Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu, and representative of wives of fallen heroes.

The Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; members of the state parliament; members of the State Executive Council and other top government functionaries; Judges of the State Judiciary; other Heads of Security Agencies in the state; Senior Military Officers; and members of the Nigerian Legion, Enugu State Council, attended the colourful event.

Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike of Rivers State has described Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State as a good man and one of the shinning lights of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria.

Gov. Wike also described Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a humble, gentle and God fearing leader” as well as “a very reliable brother and friend”.

The governor made the commendations when he led members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Council Chairmen and elders of the state including a former governor of Rivers State, Sir Celestine Omehia to pay a fraternal visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi at his country home in Ohom Orba, Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, in the spirit of the New Year festivities.

According to Gov. Wike, “This man (Ugwuanyi) you are seeing here, he is very quiet, very humble but he knows what to do at any point in time.

“Gov. Ugwuanyi is not a noise maker, he does not shout like me; he is very humble, he takes everything gently. He is a God fearing man”.

Conveying the fraternal greetings of the Government and people of Rivers State to the people of Enugu State, Gov. Wike, who disclosed that he was amazed by the array of leaders of Enugu State that came to receive him, stressed that Gov. Ugwuanyi deserves his commendations.

His words: “I am not a sycophant and I will not be a sycophant. I am not here to eulogize anybody who is not supposed to be eulogized.

“But when you see good thing you say this is good thing. When you see bad thing you say this is bad thing. I don't identify with those who do not mean well for their people.

“This man (Ugwuanyi) you are seeing here, he is very quiet, very humble but he knows what to do at any point in time. Gov. Ugwuanyi is not a noise maker, he does not shout like me, he is very humble, he takes everything gently. He is a God fearing man.

“I called my brother (Ugwuanyi) and I told him that I am coming to see him. That one of the governors I must see before we start work for the New Year, starting from tomorrow (Tuesday) must be Governor of Enugu State.

“I have not danced in any of the states I have gone to but I have to dance here. This man is a good man; a good man in all ramifications”.

Describing Gov. Ugwuanyi as one of the shinning lights of the PDP, Gov. Wike thanked him for his support and the brotherhood both of them share together, and urged him to remain focused, courageous and strong in supporting the Party.

Gov. Wike, who was conferred with the Chieftaincy title of “Agu n’ eche ibe of Enugu State” by the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council in recognition of his sterling leadership qualities, enjoined the people and leaders of Enugu State to continue to rally round Gov. Ugwuanyi in his pursuit of peace and good governance.

Welcoming Gov. Wike to his country home, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who described him as “the Seven Star Governor of Rivers State”, said that the Rivers State Governor has distinguished himself as a visionary, bold and audacious leader, adding: “You have inspired trust and confidence in our democracy; you have been a defender of the defenseless; and you have continued to glorify God with the instrumentality of your office”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi told Gov. Wike that “we are proud of your accomplishments as Governor of Rivers State, elected on the platform of our great Party”.

According to Gov. Ugwuanyi, “This fraternal visit signposts the deepening of the fellowship between the Government and good people of the Treasure Base of the Nation and the Coal City states.

“I am glad that Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council under the leadership of her Chairman, His Royal Majesty, Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzu deemed it fit to confer on you the revered title of ‘Agu n’ eche ibe of Enugu State’ as a testament to this camaraderie and your sterling leadership qualities as well as a memento of this auspicious visit”.

Dignitaries at the event include the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; former Governor of old Enugu State, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo; the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; Members of the National and State Assemblies; Enugu State Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani; his Rivers State’s counterpart, Amb. Desmond Akawor; former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara and other former Members of the National Assembly; PDP Board of Trustees Member, Amb. Mrs. Justina Eze; former President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo; Members of the Enugu State Executive Council; Council Chairmen; former Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Timi Alaibe; Traditional Rulers, among others.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has hosted the immediate-past Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development in the state, Dr. Victor Chukwuemeka Nnam at rhe Government House.

Ugwuanyi, during the visit, felicitated with the people of the state in particular and Nigerians in general. He urged them to renew their faith in God and be committed to things that would promote peace, unity and progress.

Ugwuanyi while receiving Nnam who came in company of his friends, family members and well wishers, promised to sustain the tempo of peace and good governance in the state to improve the living standard of the people as the true heroes of democracy.

The Governor said the State “is in the hands of God”, maintaining that true forgiveness should be the message of the season.

“The challenges of the economic realities would demand that Nigerians rededicate themselves and their energies to the task of nation building. Nigerians need a deep sober reflection, as they embrace 2022 in order to tackle the myriads of socio-economic problems that confronted the people in 2021,” Ugwuanyi said

Dr. Nnam said the purpose of the visit was to give honour to whom is due, despite the controversy that followed his resignation.

He said: “In the spirit of Christmas and New year celebrations, we should give praise to the almighty God whose grace sustained us throughout 2021 despite all the challenges of life.

“Being alive is a privilege, let’s embrace one another and work together for the betterment of the state.”

Nnam alongside his wife, Mrs. Divine Nnam, his brothers, Uchechukwu Nnam, Mr. Michael Nnam, Chief Freedom Nnam, Chief Innocent Nnaji, his friends to include; Chukwuka Ugwu, Mezie Ashuke, Fabian Nyia amongst others, wished the Governor and the government of the state a prosperous and productive years ahead.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Thursday, assented to the 2022 appropriation bill of N186,635,135,582.00 (One Hundred and Eighty Six Billion, Six Hundred and Thirty Five Million, One Hundred and Thirty Five Thousand, Five Hundred and Eighty Two Naira) passed by the State House of Assembly on Wednesday, December 29, 2021.

Presenting the appropriation bill to Gov. Ugwuanyi for assent, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi disclosed that the budget proposal was not contentious, stressing that “it was a very wonderful budget of international standard”.

He pointed out that 38 percent Recurrent Expenditure and 62 percent Capital Expenditure contained in the budget met international standard.

Hon. Ubosi explained that all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) were invited to appear before the various committees to defend their budget estimates, adding that they all complied accordingly.

The Speaker said that critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, works and infrastructure and water resources got robust allocations to ensure that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration continue to improve the living standard of the people of the state.

“Looking at the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure which is about N36 billion, it shows that you (Ugwuanyi) are prepared to fulfill the campaign promises you made to the people of Enugu State.

“Your Excellency, the budget was well packaged and we must commend you and members of your executive for that wonderful budget”, he said.

Assenting to the budget bill, Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed gratitude to the members of the State House of Assembly for their commitment and dedication to legislative duties as well as the development of Enugu State.

Appreciating the synergy and harmonious relationship between his administration and state legislature, Gov. Ugwuanyi beseeched God and expressed confidence that the budget would be implemented faithfully for the people of the state to enjoy more dividends of democracy.

Also present at the event were the Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu and other members of the State House of Assembly, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr. Festus Uzor, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Prof. Malachy Okwueze, and the Clerk of the House, Barr. Dr. Emmanuel Udaya.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Members of a socio-cultural organization in the Enugu North Senatorial zone of Enugu State, known as Odinma Nsukka, have unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for entrenching enduring peace and stability in the state and for his unprecedented infrastructural development especially in the rural areas.

Rising from their well attended Annual General meeting held at Odinma Nsukka Secretariat at Ede-Oballa, Nsukka Local Government Area, yesterday, members of the association led by their Chairman, Engr. Vita Abba, expressed profound gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for enthroning an enduring atmosphere of peace in the state, adding that his administration's infrastructural strides particularly in the rural areas in spite of the lean resources at its disposal were impressive and commendable.

The meeting, which was essentially a gathering of leaders and stakeholders in the Enugu North Senatorial zone, reaffirmed the commitment as well as the solidarity and unflinching support of the people of Nsukka for the governor and his people-oriented programmes and policies.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of Odinma Nsukka, Engr. Abba thanked the members for their individual and collective contributions to the noble course of the group aimed at promoting the good works of the governor as well as peace, unity and progress among people of the zone in particular and the state in general.

“I want to thank all of you who are here and the entire Nsukka people for all their unalloyed support for our illustrious son, the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Your support is not taken for granted”, Engr. Abba stated.

The Chairman disclosed that the resolution of the entire Nsukka people on November, 2020 at Nsukka High School field, that they are solidly behind Gov. Ugwuanyi and his decisions in the 2023 general elections, remains sacrosanct.

Among those who spoke in a similar vein were the coordinator, Barr Ifeanyi Ossai; the chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Enugu State chapter (ALGON), Hon Solomon Onah; the members of National Assembly represented by the duo of Rt. Hon. Pat Asadu and Hon. Simon Atigwe, alongside members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, represented by Rt. Hon. Chinedu Nwamba.

They deplored subterranean attempts by persons outside the zone to frustrate Nsukka people's common resolve to offer their express loyalty to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. "We urge the people from the zone to be patient and united behind their son who is the governor," they said.

Hon. Asadu specifically reminded the mammoth gathering that historically, the Nsukka people had often, in concert with other zones, sought political guidance from an incumbent governor with regard to the direction of succession, in collaboration with stakeholders. "The case of Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi should not be different," he noted.

Many speakers who spoke at the gathering praised the impressive turnout, urging the people to be steadfast and confident in the state governor's ability to steer Nsukka people, and Enugu State generally, on the right path.

On the occasion of this year’s Yuletide, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has congratulated Christians, the good people of Enugu State and indeed, all Nigerians on yet another opportunity to celebrate God’s abiding grace and salvation for mankind through the birth of Jesus Christ.

Gov. Ugwuanyi noted that the commemoration of Christ's birth symbolizes God's love for humanity and His faithfulness in sending a Saviour to redeem the world.

The governor, who appreciated God for His goodness and mercies, urged Nigerians to remain steadfast and committed to prayers and other engagements that promote peace, love, unity, security and progress of the country.

While thanking ‘Ndi Enugu’ for their unceasing love, prayers, solidarity, support and goodwill, Gov. Ugwuanyi wished all Nigerians Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

He reassured the people of Enugu State of his firm resolve to continue to serve them with the fear of God, and to sustain the tempo of peace and good governance in the state in spite of all the challenges in the country.

The ongoing construction of the first Enugu State Government’s Flyover at T-junction, Nike Lake Road, Enugu, one of the top-flight projects of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration comprising 105 meters bridge section, 590m ramps in cumulative length and four Service lanes, reaches advanced stage of completion, to ease traffic jam around the Abakpa-Nike and Nike Lake Resort axis of Enugu metropolis.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

…As Commission’s National President lauds governor’s exemplary leadership role

*Honour, a very humbling experience for me - Gov

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State was, on Tuesday, conferred with the ‘Best Pilgrimage Governor in the South East Nigeria’ award by the National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) “for committing resources towards the growth and sustenance of Christian Pilgrimage in Nigeria”.

Presenting the award to Gov. Ugwuanyi, the Executive Secretary, National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam said the Commission was impressed with the governor’s commitment to God and the spiritual objectives of the religious exercise, stressing that his administration’s contributions to the noble course in spite of the nation’s challenges are exemplary.

Dr. Pam also expressed delight that Gov. Ugwuanyi has kept the spirit of Enugu alive as “the political, economic and religious headquarters of the South East as designed by the founding fathers”.

The NCPC Executive Secretary disclosed that Enugu came first among the five states of the South East that sponsored pilgrims during the last exercise, saying: “The number of pilgrims that came from Enugu overwhelmed all the other states and that shows that not only politically you (Ugwuanyi) are coordinating, but spiritually you are leading and the best way to encourage you is to come here physically with an award for the best governor in the South East”.

Dr. Pam added that Enugu came third nationally in terms of states that sponsored highest number of pilgrims in the last exercise.

He, therefore, acknowledged Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a friend and an ambassador of NCPC, stating: “You remain our number one ambassador in the South East”.

According to him, “This is one of the reasons that has led us to come here to encourage you that you remain the father to the South East not only in the aspect of pilgrimage but other works we have seen that you have done in terms of infrastructure in the rural areas, in terms of street lights, in terms of intervention on federal roads, among others we have seen with our physical eyes.

“We have also seen your interventions in other areas, and the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board and the Board Chairman have equally briefed me on all you have been doing in terms of giving full support, office and mobilization to them.

“Permit to say that even the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) which I am also part of has told me of your efforts in supporting the Church leaders in Enugu and even outside Enugu. At the same time, you are a friendly governor; time without number I have seen top religious leaders not only Christians but also those from different faith; I have seen top political leaders coming to Enugu and you have always given them a handshake. No wonder you were able to overcome the crisis of insecurity and all other crises that are disturbing different states; you have gone above them by the grace of God.

“On behalf of the NCPC, I confer on you the 2020 Award of Excellence as the highest sponsor of Christian Pilgrimage in South Eastern Nigeria. Congratulations!”.

Receiving the award, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who went prophetic, described the event as a very humbling experience for him, saying: “All my life, predating my political odyssey, I have always pursued a life of service to others, believing that the goodness of man to man is the God we see”.

According to the governor, “When the Grace of God came calling and it pleased the most High that I become the Chief Servant of this great state, it came as a tonic and opportunity for greater service to greater number of people.

“At inception, our administration put Enugu State in the Hands of God and His Hands have been manifest in all we do. He has delivered us through the most turbulent times and His blessings are still counting.

“The Government and good people of Enugu State are firmly in the Hands of the awe-inspiring God, the El Shaddai, the Adonai, the Yahweh, the Jehovah Nissi, the Elohim, from whom our help comes”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi thanked the leadership of NCPC for the great honour and delightfully dedicated it to the members of the Body of Christ in Enugu State, “the Clergy and other Christian faithful whose prayers, counsel and support afford us the Grace of God for navigating the challenges as they come”.

The governor while also thanking members of the Commission for appreciating the modest efforts of his administration, added: “But indeed all thanksgiving belong to God and the Awardees are the practitioners of Christian Faith in Enugu State”.

Announcing that the State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved the state’s sponsorship of Christian faithful for the February 2022 pilgrimage, to seek God’s face in the New Year, Gov. Ugwuanyi reiterated that his administration shall continue to encourage the people of the state to deepen the practice of Christian faith.

“In the thick of the storms of 2020, encouraging our people to pray and seek divine intervention was indeed our most potent therapy. We prayed, fasted, sponsored our people to embark on pilgrimage.

“To us, 2020 pilgrimage was not just a cost centre but was also the most needful. I dare say, that it worked like magic; it will always work, for the promise of God never fails. We have peace, security and an economically thriving state, to the Glory of God”, the governor said.

The event was witnessed by the State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Mrs. Mabel Agbo; the Executive Secretary of the Board, Barr. Nestor Ezeme; the Chairman, Enugu State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Rev. Emmanuel Edeh; the Chaplain, Government House, Enugu, Rev. Fr. Chinedu Ozoude (Board Member); the Chairman, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Enugu State, Bishop Dr. Godwin Madu (Board Member); the wife of Archbishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Enugu State, Ezinne Nkechi Ede (Board Member ; the South Zonal Coordinator, NCPC, Sunday Udeh, among others.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has raised the alarm over attempts by some unpatriotic and callous individuals to vandalise and steal the facilities put in place by the state government in academic institutions at the basic, secondary and tertiary levels for the advancement of education in the state.

The state government raised the alarm in a statement by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Uche Eze.

Prof. Eze noted that the unpatriotic and callous acts were inimical to the untiring efforts of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in vigorously pursuing quality education for the children of the state, stressing that the state government has invested heavily in the construction, renovation and equipping of educational institutions at the basic, secondary and tertiary levels.

The Commissioner therefore announced that "the state government has directed that no social or sporting activities organised by any person or group shall take place henceforth in any of the state public educational institutions without the written approval of the Hon. Commissioner for Education upon a request through the appropriate Board or Parastatals".

The state government further directed heads of primary, secondary and tertiary institutions to henceforth ensure the proper clearing of the school environment and restriction of unauthorised entrance into the school premises to avoid any fire outbreak this Harmattan season.

"All heads of primary, secondary and tertiary institutions are, therefore, directed to ensure strict compliance", Prof. Eze said.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, yesterday, joined members of the Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN) in their last Crusade for 2021, to the admiration of the Eucharist Adorers who cheered the governor for his humility, commitment to God as well as uncommon disposition to peace and good governance in the state.

Welcoming Gov. Ugwuanyi on arrival amid loud ovation and cheers from the large crowd, the Spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministry, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka applauded the governor for his commitment to peace and good governance as well as his solidarity, brotherly love, friendship and paternal support to the Ministry.

Fr. Mbaka who described Gov. Ugwuanyi as "a good man, a member of the Adoration Ministry, a father and friend to this Ministry" disclosed that under Ugwuanyi's leadership, the Ministry has enjoyed peace, love and quality access road, stressing: "Otherwise we would have been in a forest that will be difficult to locate, just to mention a few among other great things His Excellency has been doing for this Ministry".

The Spiritual Director said the Adorers are happy with the governor, adding: "We are happy you are here to witness the end of the Crusade; our prayers will continue to go for you".

Fr. Mbaka prayed for Gov. Ugwuanyi and beseeched that "the hand of God would never depart from you in Jesus Name".

Gov. Ugwuanyi, who praised and worshipped God with the Adorers, wished them a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Ukpo community, Anambra State, on Saturday, conferred on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, the Chieftaincy title of "Ifezulumba", in recognition of his "contributions towards the development of Ukpo and mankind," by His Majesty Igwe Dr. Robert C. Eze (Okofia VI) the Igwe Ukpo and Clan Head of Dunukofia Ancient Kingdom, Anambra State, during the 30th Ukpo Ofala Celebration.

The event was witnessed by the illustrious son of Ukpo community, an international business mogul and a renowned philanthropist, Prince Engr. Arthur Eze (Ebube Ukpo, Ozoigbondu); the Senator Representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Iyom Senator Uche Ekwunife (who was also conferred with the Chieftaincy title of “Ifekaolaedo”); the National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South East Zone, Chief Ali Odefa, among others.

…As REC hails governor’s swift intervention

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Friday, inaugurated and handed over the newly renovated Enugu State Office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), burnt by unknown gunmen some months ago.

Recall that trailing the unfortunate attack on INEC's office in Enugu, Gov. Ugwuanyi inspected the facility and promised that his administration will rebuild the burnt structure to enable the electoral body continue to discharge its constitutional duties efficiently and effectively in the state.

Handing over the structure to the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Enugu State, Dr. Emeka Joseph Ononamadu, Gov. Ugwuanyi, represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Mrs. Mabel Agbo, disclosed that the state government in spite of its dwindling resources went ahead to fulfill the promise to contribute to the strengthening of the electoral process as well as encourage continuous improvement of the conduct of elections in the country.

The governor stated that a critical review of the general performance of INEC in Enugu State in particular and Nigeria in general shows that the electoral body has succeeded in introducing processes that have helped in entrenching and deepening the nation’s democratic experience.

Gov. Ugwuanyi reiterated his administration’s commitment and interest in ensuring that there is no hindrance towards continuous improvement in the electoral process, stressing that it was in keeping with this commitment that the state government went out of its way to renovate the INEC office within the short period it was burnt.

Appreciating the good work the INEC REC is doing in the state, Gov. Ugwuanyi pledged his administration’s continuous support to the Commission in all areas, within the limited resources available to the state.

Responding, INEC REC in Enugu State, Dr. Ononamadu, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for coming to their rescue by renovating their burnt office.

Dr. Ononamadu expressed delight that the structure has been renovated to standard courtesy of the Enugu State government, saying: “We sincerely appreciate this noble gesture by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration”.