₦airaland Forum

NYCN sets to empower Anambra Youth on ICT, as Chairman donates computer sets

By Okechukwu Osieme

All is now set for more youth in Anambra State to acquire training, skills and empowerment in different fields of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

The State Chairman of NYCN, Surveyor Emeka Obi, who disclosed this in a press conference on Wednesday, explained that he has donated a total of twenty desktop computer sets for the programme to commence earnestly.

According to him, the computer sets would be unveiled by NYCN on Friday, the 19th of August, 2022, and the major target for the initiative would be Anambra youths especially those at the communities who wish to acquire ICT knowledge but for one reason or the other were unable to.

“It is my delight to inform you that we are ready to commence our ICT drive with the unveiling of the 20 sets of desktop computers which I donated to the Council. The computers and their components have been procured and we have also inaugurated the Directorate of ICT to champion this cause," he noted.


He, however, noted that the Council was facing a logistics challenge and appealed to spirited individuals, groups, corporate agencies, philanthropists and politicians to assist them in procure an official bus.

" This will go a long way in assisting us move the ICT equipment and personnel to the training centres across the state. We also have our vehicle that needs serious maintenance and the Council will also appreciate any assistance that will enable us repair it for smooth operation,” Obi added.

By Okechukwu Okoye

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Saturday, said it would not extend the ongoing nationwide continuous voter's registration (CVR) exercise which has been billed to end on July 31st.

The INEC National Commissioner in charge of Voter Education and Publicity, Barr. Festus Okoye, who disclosed this while interacting with journalists in Awka, the Anambra State, recalled that the exercise was previously scheduled to end on June 30 but was later extended to give rooms for more eligible voters to enroll.

Okoye, while pointing out that the CVR would be brought to an end as scheduled, explained that termination of the exercise would also enable them execute other constitutional responsibilities such as display of voters registers across polling units, deleting of multiple registrations, conduct of any outstanding election, among others.

He assured those who had applied for fresh, transfer, review and replacements that their Permanent Voter's Cards (PVC) would be for collection across LG Areas in the month of October for those who enrolled on or at the end of June 2022, while their counterparts who applied within July 2022 would get theirs by November this year.

Okoye further warned that PVC were not meant for banking transactions or purposes other than elections, and implored holders to kindly secure them and ensure they come out and use them to vote the candidates of their choice during elections.


He commended security men, Journalists, community leaders and other stakeholders in Anambra State for supporting the commission throughout the period of the exercise, because according to him, their efforts helped the INEC staff to device and execute the projects successfully across 82 locations including markets, churches, events and communities with larger populations.

"We deployed a total of 110 INEC development devices to Anambra. 10 malfunctioned. 6 were repaired by our in house engineers and redeployed back to fields. In Anambra State, we trained some of our staff to assist in carrying out the exercise. We isolated those for transfer, replacement, and others. We trained our staff to assist in rendering the various services.

" We extracted clear protocol on how to carry out voters transfer, voters review and replacements to mitigate the surging crowd. We isolated places to carry out intervention; and we took machines to markets, churches, NUJ, NYSC orientation camp and other places where they are large concentration. For complaints, we developed a compliant desk for people to voice out their complaints. Over 50 complaints were received and treated. We carried intervention at 82 locations," he stated.

Okoye, while responding to questions regarding their level of preparations for the 2023 general elections, said they were determined to conduct free, fair and credible polls, adding that the commission would train presiding officers and security officers on how to curbing electoral malfeasance such as impersonation, vote trading and buying.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu.

The Vice Chancellor, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Professor Greg Nwakoby has said his citadel of learning remains number one among all the State owned universities in Nigeria.

According to Nwakoby, this was due to the university's giant strides in infrastructure, conducive, quality teaching and learning and others made possible by the Anambra State government.

Nwakoby, who stated this through a representative and Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Professor Osita Chiaghanam, while addressing journalists at Godwin Ezemo International press center Awka, thanked the State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo for not relenting in supporting the school.

He commended the NUJ executives for changing the narratives in the union said that it is of utmost importance to prioritize the welfare of the members just as the management of the institution holds welfare of its workers in high esteem.

Speaking earlier, the chairman , Nigeria Union of Journalists , Anambra state council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Ph.D, outlined various activities of his executive in ensuring that Anambra NUJ wax stronger especially in terms of welfare of the members .

Comrade Odogwu urged members of the union to always apply work ethics and to be professional in their reportage, commending the leadership qualities of the Vice Chancellor's of COOU and the success recorded so far.

By Okechukwu Okey

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Thursday, extended the service year of 42 corps members who defaulted in at least one out of the four cardinal programs of the scheme during the 2021 Batch B Stream 1 service year.

The NYSC coordinator in Anambra State, Mrs Blessing Ekene Iruma, who disclosed this at the NYSC passing out parade ceremony held at Awka, the State capital, noted that the 42 have been recommended for correctional measures ranging from 2 weeks extension to outright repeat of service.

Iruma further pointed out that 2 distinguished themselves to receive State awards while 13 others bagged State Coordinator's letter of commendation.

"Your Excellency Sir, I present to you these Patriotic youth that have completed their services in all the nooks and crannies of the state and have partnered with this administration in many ways including the educational, health, skills acquisitions and construction works. And we have been receiving glowing commendations from their host communities.

"May I use this opportunity to inform you that 2022 Batch B (stream II) orientation course programme holds from 20 July 2022 to August 5 2022 to fill up the gap created by these outgoing ones. While we appreciate His Excellency's numerous assistance to the scheme in the state, we are still appealing for speedy intervention on the menace done by erosion at the Nnamdi Azikiwe NYSC Unity permanent orientation camp Umuawulu/Mbaukwu through proper landscaping," she noted.

She noted that they were ready to partner with the state towards grassroots development, because according to her, it was the scheme desire to be part of the state success story in the capital development.

The Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, while bestowing the honours to the deserving corp members, also mourned one unnamed female corp member, who according to him, died at the course of the service year.

The governor, represented by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Patrick Agha-Mba, acknowledged the challenges facing the scheme and promised to tackle them headlong.

"You have in no small way partnered with the state in the developmental programs of the state essentially in government and private schools, including provision of educational materials. In rural schools, Health Initiative for Rural Dwellers, (HIRD), skills acquisitions, provisions of solar lights in some communities, environmental sanitation, construction works, charity visitations and many other ways.

"We cannot take your selfless services for granted. However, we are aware of the challenges facing the scheme at the Orientation Camp especially the ravaging influence of erosion and I am in contact with professionals that will handle the landscaping. We cannot in any way watch our highly admired structures at the camp be washed away by erosion. Regrettably, we lost one of you, in the course of the service year; on this note let's pause for a minute silence in honour of our fallen hero. May her soul rest in peace."

Okeke Odogwu
The Staff and management of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Anambra State, have celebrated and urged elevation of their outgoing State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Nkwachukwu Orji.

Speaking at the farewell event held at the Commission's headquarters in Awka, the Administrative Secretary of INEC in Anambra, Mr Chima Duruaku, described Orji as an encyclopedia of knowledge and discplinarian whose impact on them within his five years stay would never be forgotten.

Duruaku, who recalled times when the REC played the roles of driver in order to ensure speedy and timely movement of materials and logistics in Anambra, prayed God to reposition him to higher positions so as to impact more lives positively.

"We are wishing you to be appointed into a higher position like INEC National Commissioner after today. You have worked meritoriously in Anambra. You placed a lot of value in us. The lessons we learnt are many. We are not going to forget them," he maintained.

Contributing, the representative of INEC Management Staff, Mr Ibe U. Ibe, who is Head of Department, Elections & Political Party Monitoring, hinted that Dr Orji's arrival to the State retooled and reshaped their work ethics and conditions, as he supervised their works personally, encouraging and providing thier welfare individually and collectively.

Others including the Electoral Officer for Anambra East LGA, Mrs Dorathy Nwobu, Mr Ifeanyi Ogbonna, and Mrs Amara Okpala, praised Dr Orji's creative ingenuity, conviviality, gender equity, care and tolerance, and prayed the federal government to appoint him as INEC National Commissioner as according to them, he was hardworking, pays attention to details and never compromise for whatever reason.


In his farewell speech, the REC, Dr Nkwachukwu Orji, praised the management and staff of the commission for their comportment and cooperation to him throughout his stay in Anambra, and urged them to sustain the tempo with a view to change the narrative in Nigeria.

" I have also learnt a lot from you. My five years experience in this state as REC was impactful. With your cooperation, we were able to overcome all the challenges we met throughout my stay here. We worked as one family. One thing we learnt clearly during my time here is essence of setting a goal. For each activities and exercise we embarked on, we try to set a goal. Another thing is a theory of change.

"You must know why you are, your problem and how to change it. Then, the value of team work and relationship. We value them a lot in election. Because election is a multi stakeholders exercise. In everything you do, don't forget to get plan B and even plan C incase plan B fails. I want to urge you to sustain the tempo," he maintained.

The African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA) has named Peter Ejiofor, one of the nation’s leading cybersecurity entrepreneurs, and the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ethnos IT Solutions, in its 2022 list of awardees. Mr. Ejiofor, who is one of only six Nigerians, on the list of 12 awardees, is recognized with the African Leadership Excellence Award for his track record of business leadership and value creation in the information security space in Nigeria and beyond.

The other Nigerians are Dr. Ifie Sekibo, Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank who is a joint winner of African Business Integrity Leader Award alongside Mastercard Africa; Peter Ashade, Group Chief Executive Officer of United Capital Plc, Nigeria, for African CEO of the Year Award; Akindele Akintoye, Chairman, Platform Capital, Nigeria for African Business Leader of the Year Award; Emmanuel Nwogbo, Group Managing Director, Alfa Centauri, Nigeria for African Inspiration Leadership Impact Award; as well as Kashifu Abdullahi, Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) for Special African Leadership Commendation Award. The ABLA 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award went to Sam Matekane, Group Chairman, Matekane Group of Companies, Lesotho for his significant contributions in shaping, growing and developing the economic landscape on the African continent.

The African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA), a flagship programme of the African Leadership Magazine London, recognizes exceptional corporate practices and outstanding achievements in the African business landscape, as well as contributions to the continent’s inclusive socio-economic growth and development. The 12th edition of the Awards presentation ceremony held on July 4, 2022 at the House of Lords, London on the sidelines of the Africa Summit London with the theme, ’’Rethinking African Trade & Partnership Possibilities’’

By Iwu Jesus
Open letter to Ndi Anambra State

It is crystal clear that the coming election is a fight to finish in Nigeria and I want to use this medium to talk to ndi Anambra State.

The call for the Permanent Voters Card (PVC) is the most trending call online now. But my worry is that our people are not taking it as serious as it should be.

The Igbo traders in Lagos recently, closed down their markets because of PVCs. Clubs, joints and many other groups have taken up this campaign of operation show your PVC.

By now, the Anambra State Government supposed to have mapped out some days as work-free days for the workers to make use of the ample opportunity to either obtain, transfer or attend to their PVC related issues.

Also market unions in the state should have followed the footstep of those markets in Lagos by closing the big markets in Anambra State for traders to get their PVCs too.

Igbos are the most diversified tribe in Nigeria and that's why our population seems to be stagnant but with our massive registration and collection of PVCs, Nigerians will know that Igbos are more populated than any other indigenous tribe in Nigeria.

Anambra State is the light of the nation and we are supposed to be examplary to other Igbo states in this direction of Operation-Show-Your-PVC.

This good step in the right direction will not stop at mere getting of the PVC But even voter should equally make good use of his/her Permanent Voter Card during elections.


PVC is not only used for votings, but it is also the only national identification card that is acquired free of charge in Nigeria. It does not have an expiry date.

All Students Unions of tertiary institutions in Anambra State must encourage their members to go for their PVCs so that their votes will be able to make positive difference, and bring end to the long existing strike action.

Workers in the state should call on the government to give them a day or two from work to enable them get their PVCs.

Ndi Anambra State, our son and former governor of our state, Mr Peter Obi is contesting for presidency and he needs our votes more than any other state in the country. No state in Nigeria supposed to give Peter Obi more votes than Anambra State.
This is why I am making this clarion call for we Ndi Anambra State to sit up and face our responsibility.

Let us remember that Anambra State remains the Light of the Nation and we owe Nigeria that duty to produce the best choice of candidate for the coming election and also vote him into power. We can end all agitations, insurgency, banditry and killings with our PVCs by 2023.

I am calling on our amiable governor, Prof Charles Chukwuma SOLUDO to give the workers and market union leaders a free day to get their PVCs ready for the 2023 General Election.

A word is enough for the wise....


From
M.C iwujesu Justin
(OKWULORA OKWU NA-AFIA ARU)

Pyrates sensitise Anambra youth on ways of eliminating drug addiction

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The National Association of Seadogs Pyrates confraternity (Honduras Deck), Anambra State Chapter, Friday, sensitised residents of the state on impact of illicit drugs and substance abuse.

The event held at Awka, the Anambra State capital, had in attendance members of the association and invited guest including the Public Relations Officer (PRO), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Anambra State command.

Delivering a lecture, the PRO NDLEA, Mr Chris Adabo, appealed to residents to stop flogging or punishing drug addicts as it was not a solution to eliminating substance abuse.

Adabo also explained that punishing drug addicts expose them to more harms, injuries and other psychological effects.

Adabo, while delivering a lecture entitled youth and menace of substance abuse at an annual feast of Barracuda organised by the National Association of Seadogs Pyrates confraternity (Honduras Deck), Anambra State Chapter.

He noted that the agency was ready to partner groups, individuals or communities to increase sensitisations on impact of drug peddling and consumptions.

According to him, sensitisations, enactment of laws by communities and their full enforcements, parental care and guidance, non-patronage to sellers were among the key factors for reducing supplies, marketing and consumptions of drugs, substance abuse and other illicit drug addiction.

The PRO further reiterated that the NDLEA rehabilitation centres were still open to admit drug inmates with a view to properly rehabilitating them including counseling, detoxification and empowerment before reintegration back to the society.

Also speaking, the Capon Honduras Deck, Mr Nonso Oguajiofor, urged the populace to avoid illicit drugs and substance abuse as according to him, it affects both the old and the young, as well as impedes the societal growth and development.

Earlier, the Chairman, Local Organising Committee of the event, Mr Tochukwu Okeke, thanked participants at the programme, noting that the choice of lecture theme for the event was due to the prevalence of substance and illicit drugs abuse in the society.

*YOUTH COALITION CONGRATULATES PRINCE EZE, PDP CANDIDATE FOR DUNUKOFIA, NJIKOKA AND ANAOCHA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY*


DNA Youth Vanguard, a coalition of youth groups in Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha (DNA) Federal Constituency, has felicitated with Prince Dr Emeka Eze on his emergence as the candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha Federal Constituency.

The coalition in a statement signed by his Chairman, Comrade Okechukwu Christopher, and the Secretary, Comrade Ify Okoye, described Eze's victory as divine and a true reflection of people choice.

The coalition said the victory portends good future, forthrightness, quality representation and foundation for good things to come to the three great council areas from 2023.

According to DNA Youth Vanguard, Prince Eze is the most qualified man for the legislative assignment due to his academic qualifications, professional acumen, posture, outspokenness, contacts, character and networks every sensible legislator must possess.

"Eze was and is still consistently running an issue based campaign with his crops of professional media handlers. He is not into campaign of calumny because of his good family background, exposure and qualifications. We can say that he knows what he wants and is seeking it diligently and professionally too. DNA is happy to have great people like him. We are happy to identify with him..

"We know his worth. Men, women, children and students of Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha will never deny knowing him too. We have seen, witnessed and participated in his philanthropic and humanitarian activities. We are aware of his capacity and capability. DNA will surely enjoy his contributions on the floor of the green chamber at the end of the poll.

"There is no way a medical expert of international repute like himself would have lost the PDP primaries because the party delegates know for sure that he is the right man. Therefore, we are saying thank you to the PDP for making it happen. With Prince Eze on the ballot, we are sure of victory. DNA Youth Vanguard has gone back to grassroots to mobilise support for the PDP ahead of the February 2023 general elections," the statement added.

Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Nkpor-Agu, Anambra State, Rev. Dr. Jerry Nwachukwu, has said that religious intolerance, and killings in different parts of Nigeria are currently threatening the unity of the country.

Speaking during a midweek service last Wednesday in his church located at number 19 Ezendu Street, off Mercedes Avenue, Nkpor, the cleric suggested that for the country to come out of its problems, its citizens must engage God in fasting, and in prayers.

"In a time like this, when Nigeria, and Nigerians are faced with unbearable problems, the country needs God's intervention. It is only God that can save the country from problems facing it," he advised.

He continued, "In 2021, God revealed to me that there will be lots of Killings in Nigeria between 2022 and 2024. This revelation is already manifesting.

"Nobody knows what will happen in the country before, during and after the 2023 general election.

"For the country to come out of its present problems, citizens must engage God. Nigerians must be on their knees; because, without God, Nigeria can do nothing."

He also advised the Igbo ethnic nationality in Nigeria to come together as a people; according to God's words in Psalm 133:1-3. This, he said, will bring solution to the problem facing the people.

Rev. Nwachukwu also advised people fighting and killing in the name of religion to allow God to fight for Himself; not them fighting for God.

He said, "We do not create life; we must not end people's lives. If you're a Christian, allow the Lord Jesus Christ to fight for Himself. If you're a Muslim, allow Prophet Mohammad to fight for Himself.

"If you're a pagan, allow the God that you serve to fight for Himself. It is not your duty to fight for God or any religious founder. God is a Supreme Being. He knows how to fight for Himself."

Palpable tension has gripped markets in Anambra State following the imposition of Caretaker Committees  on the 32 markets whose leaderships were sacked some weeks ago.

The imposition of Caretaker leadership came inspite of Court injunction from some markets  directing  that the Ministry  of Commerce and Trade to  maintain status quo ante bellum.

The Ogbaru  Main Market known as Relief Market had gone to Court to obtain injunction against  the sacking of its elected executive even when there was no justifiable reason for that.

But shortly after the order of Anambra State High Court sitting at Atani, Ogbaru Judicial division was served on the Ministry, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Chinedu Ike, in a correspondence dated May 19, 2022 insisted that the Caretaker Committee must be constituted to oversee the affairs of the Market, pending  when issues raised in the petition against the election of the executive was thrashed out.

Similar letters were  also sent to other markets involved in the gale of  sacking market  executives.

Ogbaru  and Ose Okwuodu wich have elected executives  have described the sacking of their leadership  and planning to replace them with Caretaker Committee as "illegal, high handed and act of witch-hunt".

In a letter to the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Dr. Obinna Ngonadi, the counsel to the Ogbaru Main Market, Chief Ben Uzuegbu, said they cannot sack his client's executive  based on phantom petition which they have not been given opportunity to defend.

He said : The writers of the phantom petitions will be constituted as Caretaker Committee. Whilst they take  the offices of our clients, the Government with its bureaucratic bottlenecks will then decide how and when to investigate the allegations . This procedure is bizare! It is the practice during the time of the cave man".

Uzuegbu also expressedi shock that immediately the Commissioner received the order that status quo ante bellum be maintained in respect of the matter from a competent High Court, impudently and without regard to due process and rule of law he  caused a letter under reference to be authored.

He reminded the Commissioner that the law does not respect institutions , authorities and  powers if they are in disobedience to the orders made by them.

However, a competent source close to the market said the traders have insisted that the leadership they voted for will not vacate for Caretaker Committee imposed by some vested interest in government after allegedly collecting huge sums of money running into tens of millions from the so called petitioners and caretaker members.

The traders were said to have said that since government has failed to obey Court of competent jurisdiction, they were not also  ready to surrender their  rights.

Our sources said that other markets like Ose Okwuodu, Ogboefere Market have  also vowed to resist the caretaker Committee, vowing to shut down the markets if they want use force to enter the market.

In the case of Ogboefere, their leadership was quoted as saying that they are Cooperative Society and therefore Government has no right to interfere in the running of the market.

Rev Fr. Obimma Emmanuel (Ebube Muonso) is the Spiritual Director of the Holy Ghost Adoration Ministry, Uke, and the Rector, Blessed Iwene Tansi Pilgrimage Center, Umudioika, both in Anambra State. In this interview, he speaks about the 2023 presidential election, and the need to pacify the Southeast region. Excerpts


What is your view about the agitation for Nigeria president of Southeast extraction come 2023?

Equity and justice demand that this time around, the presidency should be zoned to the Southeast. This is one major step that I believe will put an end to the series of agitations. It is worrisome that a Southeasterner has not been elected into power as president of this country.



There is this perception that other tribes still look at the Igbo man with suspicion because of agitations?

The Igbo man wants the unity and peaceful co-existence of this country more than other Nigerians. This is because; the Igbo have a very big stake in the country, since they have investments in every nook and cranny of this country. Again, the Igbo man is a peace loving person. If given the presidency, the Igbo will promote a unified and indivisible Nigerian nation. What worries an average southeasterner is the marginalization and alienation from the scheme of things. An Igbo man has the mindset for unity. An average Igbo man can easily communicate with languages of other ethnic groups. This is the unity mentality. An Igbo man does not want war or division in Nigeria, because he wants to preserve the lives and property of his people. It is, therefore, disturbing that the country they love so much; the country they work so hard to rebuild and preserve, is marginalizing them.



If the need for consensus Igbo presidential candidate arises, and you are asked to suggest an aspirant, who would you suggest?

I’ve looked at all the aspirants across major political parties, and observe that they are all eminently qualified to take Nigeria to the next level. However, to me, the former governor of Anambra State, and the former vice presidential candidate of the PDP, Mr. Peter Obi, stands out.



Why Peter Obi?

Peter Obi is an instrument that Nigeria needs at this period of its history to move forward. He has a vision that can change Nigeria’s destiny and future. I do not think that Nigeria can tolerate another 8 years of wastefulness. I urge all Nigerians to shun the issue of political affiliation, creed, sex or tribe, and go for excellence. We need to move our country forward, and we can only move forward with a progressive mind. Nigeria is already battered, and needs a man of excellence to move it forward.



Under Peter Obi as Anambra governor, the state was the first to commence Sub-Sovereign Wealth savings, the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa. Again, at a time many governors were leaving huge debts for their successors, Obi left the equivalent of $500 million Dollars in investment; as well as local and foreign currencies, including $156 million in Dollar- denominated bonds, while leaving office. Under him as governor, development partners such as UNDP, UNICEF, the World Bank, DFID, the European Union etc., which hitherto were not in Anambra started working with the state. At that time, Anambra was consistently adjudged one of the best states in development partnership and commitment to reforms for good governance.



Obi was recognized as best governor by the Millennium Development Goals Office (OSSAP-MDGs) and the UNDP in the implementation of their programmes in Nigeria. Under Obi, the Nigerian Debt Management Office (DMO) rated Anambra as the least indebted state in Nigeria. In spite of visible and measurable achievements recorded in various sectors, the state under him did not borrow or raise bonds for her various projects. Under him, the senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria rated Anambra as the most financially stable state in the country.



The state's ground-breaking return of schools to their church owners, and subsequent partnership with the agencies in education, saw the state move from 24th position out of 36 states to number one position in National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) examinations for three consecutive years. Through partnership with the church in the health sector, his government funded the transformation of many health institutions in the state.



As part of the efforts to turn around the economy of the state, a number of companies were attracted to build their facilities in Anambra. A case in point is SABMiller, the 2nd largest brewery in the world, which built their first Green Field facility in the state, which is today one of the most successful facilities they operate globally. A number of other companies followed the SABMiller initiative and were all supported and encouraged under his government; a good example is INNOSON Motor Manufacturing Company.



Obi’s government was the first to do Poverty Mapping in Nigeria, as a guide for the effective implementation of poverty alleviation strategies. During his tenure and with his government's support, Anambra became an oil producing state.



By the end of Obi’s tenure in 2014, more than twelve health institutions, including two hospitals, had secured accreditation. When he took over in 2006, no health institution in Anambra was duly accredited.





But the PDP which Peter Obi belongs to does not seem to support the idea of zoning presidential slots to the Southeast.

The rotation and zoning principle was written into the PDP’s Constitution in 2009. Article 7(2c) of the PDP Constitution states that: “In pursuance of the principle of equity, justice and fairness, the party shall adhere to the policy of rotation and zoning of party and public elective offices, and it shall be enforced by the appropriate executive committee at all levels.”



In its wisdom and patriotic zeal, the PDP allowed power to rotate between geopolitical zones in the north and south, and made it both a manifesto and a constitutional matter. What this means is that going by the party constitution, the subsisting principle of rotation leaves PDP with no choice than to zone the presidency in 2023 to the appropriate geopolitical zone, unless it amends its constitution. Owing to the indivisibility of the office of the president of Nigeria, the only way the federal character principle will apply to the office of the president as a political office referred to in the constitution is by rotating it. And this has been the practice since 1999; but now that it is the turn of the southeast to benefit from it, some PDP leaders want to change it. That is tantamount to changing the goalpost in the middle of the game. If this country must move forward, these major political parties and, of course, all Nigerians, should eschew tribalism and selfishness at this point in the nation’s history.



What do you think will be the general feeling, if the Southeast is denied the presidency in 2023?

Having a Nigerian president of Southeast extraction is long overdue, and denying the Southeast this opportunity for whatever reason, will create a crack on the purposeful co-existence of the country. It will likely heighten agitations, restiveness and bad blood. Denial of the Southeast the opportunity to produce a president in 2023 will likely aggravate the ongoing agitation for secession. Igbo will feel not wanted in Nigeria, if denied the 2023 presidential slot. But from the scheming and permutations currently going on in the two major political parties ahead of the 2023 elections, there seems to be a calculated and deliberate conspiracy, particularly from some powerful politicians from the North, to deny the Southeast the parties’ presidential tickets. If the party tickets elude the Southeast zone, what are the options for the people of the zone to convince themselves that they are truly part and parcel of the Nigeria project? In the event when this happens, Ndigbo should unite and pursue Biafra! Igbo unity is of essence now.



It is necessary to remind fellow Nigerians that Igbo are equal stakeholders and shareholders of Nigeria, and should not be relegated to the background. The Igbo have played supportive roles in the PDP and APC to other candidates from some other regions, and those parties feel that the Igbo are not worth producing the flag bearer! Nigeria must understand that the reason why its economy has been on a continuous decline is simply because an Igbo man has not been given a chance to do real business. Denial of the party tickets to the Southeast ahead of 2023 is a clear cut message that they do not belong to Nigeria.



I will, therefore, urge other geopolitical zones in this country to sacrifice the presidential seat to the Igbo, so that the country will remain intact after 2023. The coexistence of Southeast zone with other geopolitical zones in the country will be shaken, if Southeast fails to get the presidential slot in 2023 general elections. Nigeria has a golden opportunity to extend the right hand of fellowship to a major part of this nation that has been visibly marginalized since after the civil war, up until now.



I believe there is a sentiment that the presidency may not come to the Southeast across major political parties in Nigeria. When APC came up with the policy of zoning the position to the south, politicians from the South-West, who are presently occupying the position of vice-president, and whose son, Olusegun Obasanjo, was president for eight years, started their campaign, just to ensure that Igbo man does not get it.

In the PDP, politicians from the North, whose brother, President Muhammadu Buhari, will complete eight years next year, are, by recent declarations, insisting on succeeding him. What this shows is that Igbo are not important in the country’s political equation.

Even, the idea to leave the slot open for the entire southern Nigeria is not an acceptable idea. South east politicians should reject it. Under this democratic dispensation, the South-West has produced a president and vice president for 16 years in the last two decades; and the South-South has equally produced the president for six years and a vice president for two years, within the same period. The Southeast is the only zone in the south yet to produce the president for the country. The Southeast is the only geopolitical zone in southern Nigeria that has not produced a president for the country in the present democratic dispensation, albeit, since the end of the civil war in 1970.



Southeast will continue to preach unity, equity, and fairness in the relationships among ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, including the fundamental need for rotation of presidential power in Nigeria’s polity. Structural imbalances in Nigeria have made federal character and rotation of presidential power inevitable. Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) states: “The composition of the government of the federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the federal character of Nigeria and the need to promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty, thereby, ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few states or from a few ethnic or other sectional groups in that government or in any of its agencies.”



Zoning power to the southeast is a matter of justice and equity, and not a matter of mere political gamesmanship. There will be consequences if efforts at promoting peace and unity in Nigeria through dialogue are sabotaged. This is not a threat but a natural response from an injured zone that has shown the greatest commitment and fidelity to the Nigerian nation.



What are the specific needs of the Nigerian nation that you would advise President Buhari’s successor to focus on?

The most important need of the Nigerian nation that Buhari’s successor must focus on includes security. There will be no meaningful life and business without security. There will be no prosperous country without security. Another is human capital development and job creation. One major problem of the Nigerian nation is the fact that the majority of the people are not gainfully employed. Another is wealth creation. Buhari’s successor must be a wealth creator. The success of any country is dependent on the size of its economy. Another one is good and quality education. Buhari’s successor must pursue quality and universal education that will bring out good potentials hidden in the Nigerian citizens.

Okeke Agu

Thirty seven year old Fredrick Emeka Anagwu graduate of Webster University in the United Kingdom (UK) has expressed his intention to represent Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Local Goverment Areas of Anambra State in the green chamber of the National Assembly.

The Utuh born business Mogul who is pursuing his aspiration on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said that he was drawn into politics because of his concerns for the youths especially in the area of skills, education and employments.

Mr. Anagwu who bagged Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in International Business with emphasis on computer application stated that he has the working tools that will give the youths employments and empowerments.

The House of Representatives aspirant in a chat with journalists said that his return to the country was hinged on the believe that the Nigeria will be better if the youths can be galvanized for productive purposes and as well make them believe that the betterment of the society is a collective interest.

He said "Over the years, I have been involved in community development and youth empowerment which include giving zero interest loans to market women and youths to enable them start up various businesses.

"I have renovated dilapidated structures of schools in my community, built complex edifice and hospital for the good people of Utuh, scholarships were also provided for the indigent students through Chief Fredrick and Mrs Martha Anagwu Foundation."

The youngest of all the aspirants in Nnewi federal constituency identified youthful energy, intelligence, accessibility, bravery and smartness as his major selling points, Mr Anagwu stressed.

The House of Reps hopeful said further that zero interest loans would be made available to his constituents for educational and medical services noting that skill acquisition would occupy a front burner in the responsible and responsive representation which he intends to give to his constituency in the National Assembly.

Anambra based pastor, Rev (Dr) Jerry Nwachukwu, has slammed the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) for allegedly putting Nigerians into sufferings for the past 8 years.

Speaking yesterday at the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, located at No. 19 Ezendu Street, off Mercedes Avenue, Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Rev. Nwachukwu, who is the senior pastor and founder of the church, also described the N100m tagged on the APC’s presidential form as a corrupt tendency capable of worsening the country’s democratic woes.

“The ruling APC is deceiving Nigerians. Those paying N100m in the name of expression of interest form are, to me, corrupt Nigerians. It is the money that they looted from the Nigerian economy that they’re returning, and reinvesting in their parent party.

“Anybody giving out such amount, believing that he will emerge president of Nigeria, God will never allow him. God will never allow such buccaneers to continue to loot the country’s economy.

“More than 24 aspirants paid N100m each for the said form; including a notable pastor; yet, leaders of the party told Nigerians that the reason they tagged it at N100m is to scare aspirants. Who have they scared away? By selling expression of interest form at N100m, APC has proven to the world and Nigerians in particular that it does not have the interest of the country at heart,” he said.

"It seems APC has no answers to questions facing Nigerians. The party promised a lot in 2015. After 8 years, it has nothing to show. The critical sectors of the economy are not touched. The performance of the party in critical sectors, such as power and economy, are abysmally low. Insecurity in the 36 states and the federal capital are worsening by the day. Nigerians are no longer sleeping with their two eyes closed. People are being slaughtered like cows; yet, there are no arrests, no prosecutions! The country is already on a red alert.


“Regrettably, PDP is neither here nor there. Even as the major opposition party, PDP is loosing focus. If PDP could put its acts together, and speak with one voice, it can win the 2023 presidential election with ease. This is because, Nigerians would not want what has been happening in the past eight years to continue.

“For Pastor Bakere, who also paid N100m for APC's expression of interest form, he is only making investments in the ruling party; believing that the incoming government will favour him in one way or the other.

"The senior pastor and founder of Latter Rain Assembly, aka Citadel Church, resigned recently from his pastoral duties, and joined full time politics. To me, what he is doing is to prepare himself for appointments.

“Which political party does Bakere belong to? How many political meetings has he called? Have Nigerians seen his presence as someone coming to contest presidential election? There is no such sign, unless APC will decide to give him ticket unconditionally. Some of the aspirants are actually paying for appointments, such as ministers, ambassadors etc in the incoming government."

A Presidential Aspirant of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Prof. Peter Umeadi, on Tuesday solicited the support of the apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohaneze Ndigbo to actualise Igbo Presidency project.


Umeadi, also a former Chief Judge of Anambra, made the call while addressing the Executive Committee of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Anambra Chapter and Chairmen of APGA in the 21 Local Government Areas, in Awka.

He said that he is the best candidate to win the 2023 presidential election for the party, saying that he has the initiative and capacity to reposition Nigeria in four years if elected.

According to him, he is qualified to participate at the APGA Presidential Primaries slated for June 1. as he has been screened and cleared to run for the office of the President.

"I'm here to inform you as critical stakeholders and solicit your support as I aspire to become the next president of Nigeria.

"It is not possible for us to achieve, economic, educational, scientific, sporting or sufficiency breakthrough when we are hungry, insecure, and unstable.

"Nigerians are traumatised on daily basis from wanton killings. We know that insecurity among other fall out have driven our people away from the farms creating artificial scarcity of food and earning power.

"Therefore, Nigeria require change which only good leadership could provide. We need to change the way we think so we could change the way we do things. If I get the ticket of APGA, then we stand a good chance to win the presidential election in 2023.

"If I win the presidential election, I pledge to administer Nigeria with firmness and fairness, and reposition our country to the path of progress, harmony and prosperity all," he said.

Umeadi urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo to
engage in vigorous voter education to ensure that all eligible voters who were18 years and above register to vote and obtain their permanent voters cards (PVCs).

"We should canvas and sustain free and fair elections. Let only valid votes count.Validity of votes permeate capacity to vote down to announcement of correct results.

"I hope Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide will remember that it has a duty to engage in vigorous voter education to encourage citizens to get their PVCs and actually vote on election days," he said


Also speaking, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, Vice President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, urged every Nigerian to key into the Igbo Presidency project, saying time has come for the country to produce its next president from the Southeast.

"Let us mobilise ourselves as Igbos across the country, ensure we get our PVCs and vote on election day. We are popular by our votes," he said.

In his remarks, Obi Chukwuemekalum Udodeme,
President Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Anambra, said it was the turn of the Southeast to produce the next president of Nigeria.

"We are happy that you recognised our role in this Igbo Presidency project. You are very qualified to contest and become the next president and we pray that God grants you victory.

"On May 5, we will converge at Enugu for a meeting where we will tell the world how prepared we are to produce the next president in 2023, " he said.

By Ngozi Asonibe

Community Empowerment Network (COMEN) and her Civil Society Partners coordinated by the Justice Development and Peace Caritas(JDPC) Nnewi of the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi have engaged the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike for effective partnership with the new administration which is essential in promoting quality healthcare delivery in various communities on Friday, April 29, 2022 at Awka.

The group noted that Anambra State Government have shown commendable interest on improving healthcare system.
Citing that the essence of the visit was to build mutual understanding and trust with the Ministry of Health for improvement of the service delivery at the PHC Centers in Anambra.

The group further highlighted that the commendable improvements across PHCCs in the state would be reversed if the Basic Health Care Provision Fund(BHCPF) is not sustained and identified some of the challenges to include the need for the payment of counterpart Fund for Basic Health Care Provision Fund(BHCPF), which according to them is one of the essential requirements for states to access the BHCPF.
It was established that the budget for payment of the counterpart fund that enabled the disbursement of the 1st tranche of the BHCPF to the state could not be traced to any account of the Health Agencies of the State Government and could thus be a one-off arrangement to reduce the pressure to kick start the programmes.

On Prioritization and Execution of PHC programme budgets, the group suggested that the new Administration should demonstrate a higher priority for improving the Primary Healthcare Programme by ensuring that LGs make budgets and the needed funds are released to LGs to support the primary healthcare programmes in their jurisdiction, which entail improving LG’s access and control of funds through the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) account; improving the cash backing/management practices of LG staff; and strengthening oversight and accountability for the use of LG funds.

On addressing the underlying drivers of the poor performance of health sector budget, the group noted that the new administration should organize an inclusive and participatory stakeholders dialogue to identify the drivers of the credibility issues and develop proposals to address them, while calling on the state government to access block grants of the BHCPF implemented by the National Health Care Development Agency as provided in the National Health Act section 11(5) (a-c) for improving the overall financial investment for the PHC subsector.

Responding to the submission of the Advocacy group, the Anambra-state Commissioner for Health, Dr Obidike acknowledged them for working closely with the State Government over the years to bring improved healthcare delivery to Ndi Anambra and promised to sustain the partnership.

The Commissioner said the Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo is so passionate about the health of Ndi Anambra which is one of the five pillars in his manifesto.

He noted that during his tour, he instructed some of the PHCCs visited to fix their tricycle ambulances, which would help improve primary healthcare services, especially during emergencies in the hard-to-reach areas of the state.

He assured that government of Prof Soludo will partner with Health Network of Partners and communities to ensure functionable health centers to enable people at the grassroots to have quality and accessible health care.

He assured them that the new administration is determined in ensuring that the health sector of Anambra State becomes the best in Nigeria and there are plans to reduce quakery in the health sector by establishing an Agency known as ' Health Facility, Monitoring and Accreditation Agency'.

He concluded by commending the efforts of the Group and welcomed any robust engagement with the Ministry of Health, the State Primary HealthCare Development Agency and the CSO Groups.

Leave us out of APGA affairs, we don't choose candidates for parties- IPAC

By Okechukwu Okechukwu

Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, Monday, said it has neither power nor interest to choose candidates for any political party among its 18 members.

IPAC, which disclosed this in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary in Anambra State, Mr Mathias Ameke, also distanced itself from allegations that it endorsed the former National Chairman of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Senator Victor Umeh for Senate, Anambra Central.


The statement read, "IPAC is disturbed by the distortion of the intent, tune and content of her courtesy call on High Chief Senator Victor Umeh, few days ago. To set the records straight, IPAC made up of 18 political Parties presently are on throes of aggregating/clearing aspirants for the coming general elections.

"IPAC does not choose any party's candidate as it is in their remit because party are independent of each other. To choose any party's Candidate is not in the remit of IPAC, as parties are independent of each other. All political parties are going through the process of selecting their CANDIDATES right now and IPAC has nothing to do with that."

Continuing, the IPAC scribe maintained that "asking APGA To FIELD UMEH AS YOUR CANDIDATE AND LEAVE THE REST TO US" amounts to a perfidy and abdication of our statuary role as registered Political Parties in IPAC. Thus IPAC COULD NOT HAVE ENDORSED OR ADOPTED THE DISTINGUISHED SENATOR VICTOR UMEH,during the said visit; as the publication we hereby refute, intended input.

"As a group after good governance in the interest of all, IPAC ADVISE GOVERNMENT,felicitate,call on players in the polity as well as interface with them particularly on the throes of elections, to ensure fairness, credibility and inform choices for the people."

"It's in the cause of this project; and to register our displeasure with the Senator's earlier interaction with a group that called themselves IPAC; that we courteously called on the Senator. Indeed he (the Senator) appreciated our concern and the error it was. The general public is therefore hereby informed that IPAC has not endorsed or adopted anyone for the coming general elections."

By Okechukwu Okechukwu

Ten luck winners have emerged from the Bayern Youth Cup held at Awka, Anambra State to form part of team Nigeria that would participate at Germany trials in October this year.

The U-16 players came from 10 clubs that participated at the Bayern Youth Cup which included FC Hearts- Kano; Kidsport Academy- Lagos; IB Sporting Dreams-Abuja; Ablaze Academy- Lagos;
Jay 1 Academy- Abuja; Emmy Dinho Fc- Lagos; Anambra All Stars- Anambra; Aspire Academy- Anambra; Green Foot Academy- Enugu; Jazzy Stars- Plateau.

The successful players were Sadik Mailafia, Adeoye Tunmise, Mohammed Abubarka, Abdulata Omale, Nzube Mbaezue, Onoja Uchenna, Ayinde Ibrahim, Aladinla Oladayo Franklin Ogbozor and Lateef Alabi.

It was learnt that a total of 100 players between the ages of 15 and 16 took part in the 2-day invitational tournament sponsored by Aspire Foundation, VOE Foundation, Bayern Munich FC and Anambra Sports Development Commission.

The Chief Executive Officer, Voe foundation and representative partner of Bayern Munich in Nigeria, Mr Obinna Edeh, described the tournament as superb, noting that the young selected players would be nurtured at the Bayern Munich Academy with a view break records in their career.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of Aspire Foundation, Dr. Emeka Okeke, praised performance of the youth in the tournament, assuring that his organisation would continue to provide the platform for youths emancipation through sports and other meaningful ventures.


The Bayern Youth Cup won by FC Hearts of Kano, who were the defending champions, was supervised by coach Hans Pflugler, a retired German player and member of the 1990 world cup winning team with support from Christopher Loch, coach of Bayern Academy.

By Okechukwu Okechukwu

The Anambra State Sports Development Commission (ANSDC), weekend, urged the German professional sports club, Bayern Munich, to consider establishing an academy in the state to service the whole African continent.

The Chairman of the commission, Mr Tony Oli, who made the call at a press conference heralding the 2022 Bayern Munich Youth Soccer Championship holding at Awka City Stadium, assured that the State would provide the land and other facilities to the specifications of Bayern, including the enabling environment for the academy to progress.

Oli, who argued that sports academy would help to groom and showcase talented Nigerians and other African nationals to the world of soccer, explained that the call was in line with the vision of Governor Charles Soludo's administration to revolutionalise sports, and was also necessary because there was no existing Bayern Munich sports academy in Africa despite the contributions of Africans especially the indigenes of Anambra in sports development worldwide.

Responding, Mr Victor Obinna Edeh, the FC Bayern Youth Cup Nigeria Tournament Director, said the German Bundesliga side had Africa in mind in all its activities, hence introdcution of Youth Soccer Championship since 2018, and would at an appropriate time, consider bringing an academy to Africa as it did to other continents.

On the ongoing two day youth Soccer Championship holding at Awka, Mr Edeh said the programme which had brought FC Bayern legend, Coach Hans Pflugler and Christopher Loch was organised by Aspire Foundation, Voe Foundation and Anambra State Sports Development Commission, adding that at the end of the tournament, about 10 players would be selected to form part of 100 players that will represent Africa at the 2022 Bayern Munich Youth Cup Tournament in Berlin, Germany by October this year.

Edeh, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Voe Foundation, further explained that two of the teams participating on the tournament were from Anambra, the host state, while 8 others were from Lagos, Jos, Kano, Abuja and Enugu States in order to ensure that best brains were selected from across Nigerians irrespective of ethnic or religious inclinations.

Earlier, the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Aspire Foundation, Dr Emeka Okeke, represented by the foundation's Director of Programme Design and Implementation, Mr Tobechi Onwubuche, disclosed that the sporting event was among the many projects including "My Anambra Football", he embarked upon with a view to produce more football champions from among talented Anambrarians.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

http://www.factcheckng.com/2022/04/75-year-old-anambra-woman-celebrates.html?m=1

75-year-old Anambra woman celebrates daughter's 50 year anniversary by clearing 6 women birth hospital bills

Think of her status, consider hee fame, you may not know she had a humble beginning with so many excruciating pains in her heart. Her smiles and modest lifestyle also make way for her although she had overcame many challenges in life.

Hence, she goes about, preaching love, care, peace and mostly importantly, how to resolve the frictions between the man and the nature using African herbs. Chief Dr Mrs Flora Nkemakonam Ilonzo is a woman many pray to see yet she is not God, and never behaved like God.

This 75-year-old woman is gifted by God with many virtues; healings, security, crimes detention and prevention, prophesy and solutions, among others, and crowned with successes.

Flora is the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Centre for Psychic and Healing Administration (CPHA), Awka, a household name in Phytomedicine, tourism and conservation of African plants and herbs of all kinds.

The author of many books on health is currently on the news. What's the news for? Flora, on April 24th, freed about six mothers who were delivered of babies at different hospitals in Anambra State but were held for inability to clear their debts.

What were her reasons for doing this? It was in celebration of her daughter's 50-year anniversary! Her birth, according to Flora, also brought a bigger issue to the family because she was as tiny as foetus, thereby making family and friends to reject the mother (Flora). The media described the baby as a monster!

Flora was ill-advised to throw the baby away but she refused. What happened next? Flora was detained in the hospital for four months because of hospital bill. She resorted to begging for alms, and selling of empty bottles. That was how she generated some money to clear the debt.

That baby is now 50-year-old and 33 days; an international award-winning celebrity. Watch this video for the details of her testimony!!!

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

RISE Global Health Initiative, a Non-governmental Organisation, Tuesday, said it has improved training for their staff with a commitment to providing free medical services to over 2000 Nigerians.

The Medical Director, RISE Clinic Adazi-Ani, Anambra State, Dr Onyejiaka Dubem, who disclosed this on Tuesday, explained that the NGO exists to filling the gap in the Nigerian community health care with a view to fill it with love, hope and life.

According to him, the organisation founded by Dr Emeka Okeke, the former Chairman of Anambra State Football Association (ANSFA), has impacted positively to over 5000 community members in the past and would continue to do more by equipping their staff through local and international health and academic institutions.

"RISE Clinic Nigeria being an arm of RISE global health initiative was founded in 2012 in Adazi-Ani Anambra state. Its mission to enhance and sustain health and overall human development potential through excellence in interdisciplinary care and patient education has not fallen short.

"In the past 10years RISE clinic Nigeria has engaged in outreaches that brought smiles to the faces of local community members in Nigeria. In 2012 RISE Clinic Nigeria launched its pioneer program ‘Health Fair’ where a 1000 Nigerians received free screening and patient education.

"To commemorate Nigeria’s independence at 60, RISE clinic in partnership with Anambra business coalition organized a medical outreach for the people at the newly refurbished Orumba general hospital in October 2020. Today RCN operates with a growing team of health professionals, has impacted over 5000 community members, and continues to work with," he added.

By Okeke Nwaanyi

The Coalition of Southern and Middle Belt Youth Leaders Assembly, COSMBYLA, the umbrella body of all the youth groups in the South South, South East, South West and Middle Belt regions is alarmed over the outrageous cost of All Progressive Congress, APC, nomination and Expression of interest forms of N100 million for Presidential forms, N50 million for governorship forms, N20 million for Senatorial forms and N10 million for federal house of representative forms.

The approval of these outrageous fees for mere nomination and Expression of interest forms of a party in power confirms the party as a cesspool of corruption.

President Muhammadu Buhari, who was a Presidential aspirant in 2014 had criticised the party for fixing an “exorbitant” fee of N27.5 million for the presidential forms ahead of the 2015 general elections, was at the event where the party’s leaders fixed the exorbitant fees that is choking Nigerians.

The annual salary of the president of Nigeria is N14,058,820.00k. In 4 years it would be N56,235,280.00k. How will someone apply for a job with N100 million, other campaign expenses exclusive just to earn N56,235,280.00k.

President Buhari is an employee of Nigerians and he is answerable to Nigerians who elected him into power in 2015 and 2019 . As youth leaders of this country who have the interest of our nation Nigeria at heart, We demand to know how someone whose salary will amount to N56,235,280 in 4 years will be applying for the same job with a whopping sum of N100 million.

If an APC presidential aspirant brings out N100 million to purchase his party's Presidential forms, spend all the monies needed to campaign round the country and settle political party heavy weight, if the person eventually wins and is sworn-in as President. Our country's treasury will be emptied, more money will borrowed by the to be President to settle himself, those he borrowed from to bankroll his campaign, his party men will be serviced and the will be no country called Nigeria again because a party wants to remain in power at all cost.

The high cost of the APC forms will send more Nigerians to bed on empty stomach because of the inflation it will bring to the door steps of Nigerians. Already we are having a serious inflation crisis confronting the nation, the outrageous fees of the APC forms will escalate the cost of goods and services which will make things more difficult for Nigerians who are already finding it very difficult to feed once a day.

President Buhari has confirmed to Nigerians that all this time he contested for the office of the President, he was not contesting to be President so that he can build Nigeria, but rather he was contesting so that he can destroy was is left of the country.

How can one explain that when President Buhari came into office, one dollar was exchanged for N160 and now under his watch the same one dollar is N580. Foreign investors were coming in to invest into our economy but today all of the investors have left because of insecurity.

No food for Nigerians to eat because the President's kinsmen, the Murderous Fulani terrorists parading as herdsmen have been contracted to kill all Benue farmers and indigenes so that the can take over their ancestral lands. A state like Benue that is the "food basket of the nation" can not feed herself now let alone feed the nation because of the nefarious activities of one tribe .

President Buhari has failed Nigerians and we cannot pretend about it. The first day the outrageous fees of his party's nomination/Expression of interest forms was announced, so many Nigerians went to bed and did not wake up because of heart attacks caused by his party decision to loot Nigerians dry via their nomination and Expression of interest forms.

Nigerians are tired of these administration, we are waiting for the President's resignation. Enough said!.

Signed:

Hon. Goodluck Ibem
President General,
Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL).
Leader of COSMBYLA

Terrence Kuanum
Coordinator,
Forum of Middle Belt Youth Presidents

Shittu Waheed
Coordinator,
South West Youth Leaders Forum (SWYLF)

Tito Zokumor
President
South South Youth Forum (SSYF)

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Monday, embarked on environmental sanitation across Anambra State, appealing to host communities to support the exercise.

The new State Coordinator, NYSC, Mrs. Blessing Iruma, who led the exercise with other key staff and corps members at Awka, the state capital, described clean environment as a sureway to living a healthy and longer life.

According to Iruma, the exercise was part of the NYSC National Environmental Sanitation flag off, a mandate from the Director General of the scheme for all to make sacrifices in their respective host communities nationwide.

She further maintained that the exercise went on across other parts of the state and encouraged the host communities to support the scheme to enable the activities to be carried out effectively.

"We are also using the sanitation exercise to encourage our host communities to embrace good hygienic conditions at home. It is not just about what they eat but majorly on their immediate environments and communities. Cleanliness also helps to prevent mosquitoes, flies, rodents and other pests that spread deadly viruses in the environment," she added.

A sixty years old Deeperlife Bible Church pastor Mr Boniface Onyekwere is to face trial before the high court for allegedly raping a twelve years old girl in Awka the capital city of Anambra State.

It was learnt that the suspect has been remanded at Correction center in Awka pending his appearance before the court .

This is coming as the Anambra State Commissioner for women and children affairs in the state Mrs Ify Obinabo yeasterday called for the full prosecution of alleged suspect.

Recall that two weeks ago, Pastor Onyekwere who is also a Lecturer at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka was alleged to have defiled a minor who had been living him three days before the incident.

The minor (namewitheld), from Ufuma in Orumba North Local government area of Anambra state, said that when she could not bear the pains of rape at about 9:30pm on that fateful day she jumped down from two storey building and broke her leg in the process.

Speaking during a protest carried out by ultimate Business women and farmers Association of Nigeria, the police Public Relations Officer in Anambra State DSP Tochukwu Ikenga said the command is carrying out more investigation on the matter .

The police spokes person advised parents and guardians to be mindful of the people they handover their children to as house maids.


Also speaking the Women Commissioner, Mrs Obinabo expressed joy over the protest carried out by the women organization adding that one of the key agenda of the Governor Charlse Soludo's administration is to ensure the protection of women children.

"We have commenced sensitization programs for women, girl child and young boys to avert abuse of the younger generation.

"We also call on groups and faith based organizations as well as chuches to teach morals and embrace the culture and traditions of the society for posterity"

Speaking earlier the leader of the women organization Hon. Nkiru Nwagbo contended that the body will leave no stone unturned until the victim gets justice.

"We do not know what our society is turning into and that is why we are doing all that we can to get justice and this would serve as a lesson for those who may want to continue in this inhumane activities" she added.

The placard carried by the women group read, Soludo protect our girls, Pastor Boniface Onyekwere must face the wrath of law, say no to rape, we want justice, Soludo on justice we stand, among other things.

The town of Amuwo, Amesi in Aguata LGA of Anambra State came alive on Friday, April 22, 2022, as the late Chief Andrew Ozigbo (Omenyiri Amesi) is given a befitting farewell.

The late Chief Ozigbo is survived by his wife, Mrs Ezinne Christiana Ozigbo, three sons, three daughters, twenty-eight 28 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and numerous relatives.

Among his children are Mr Valentine Ozigbo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2021 Anambra governorship election; Mr Gerry Ozigbo, a Port Harcourt-based businessman; Mr Okechukwu Ozigbo, an Australia-based businessman and professional; Mrs Emilia Onwuka, a retired teacher; Mrs Fidelia Anyadufu; and Mrs Chinyere Ezeobiora, the wife of Ichie Sunday Ezeobiora, one of West Africa's biggest agribusiness men.

Chief Andrew Ozigbo was an educationist who was a popular teacher and headmaster in the Old Aguata region (now Aguata, Orumba North and Orumba South LGAs). He was also a staunch Catholic who spent several decades serving as a catechist.

The funeral activities began with a holy mass held at St Vincent's Catholic Church, Amesi, officiated by the Most Rev Peter Okpalaeke, the Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese. He represented His Holiness, the Most Rev Dr Valerian Okeke, the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese.

In his homily, Bishop Okpalaeke eulogised the late Pa Ozigbo, describing him as "a selfless father to many".

Bishop Okpalaeke, who also hails from Amesi, fondly recalled how the deceased was one of the first people to get a formal education in the community and was one of the pioneers who brought education to Old Aguata.

The Bishop expressed gratitude to God for granting Pa Ozigbo a long, fruitful, and fulfilling life, urging his bereaved family to be consoled by Chief Ozigbo's lasting legacy of love, kindness and impact.

Other distinguished clergy members present at the mass include Most Rev Dr Uzoukwu, the Catholic Bishop of Minna; Most Rev Dr Anelm Umorem, the Auxiliary Bishop of Abuja Archdiocese, and many others.

The society event continued with an elaborate reception held at the Christ the Redeemer College, Amesi school field, where a host of dignitaries sympathised with the Ozigbo family.

While speaking to journalists at the event, Mr Valentine Ozigbo spoke fondly of his father, describing him as a "mentor, leader, and hero."

"If I am to summarise, I'll describe my father as a man of peace and a disciplinarian who taught many over several decades. He was a dear father, a loving husband to our mother, and someone who has inspired us to greatness. He taught us humility, selflessness and how to live in peace and unity with one another," Ozigbo, the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, said.

"Our father lived a good life. He was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand. He was dedicated to the Lord's work and demonstrated his love for God by serving as a catechist for several decades.

"Truly, we have lost a hero, but we are consoled by the longevity of his life and the assurance that he is resting in the bosom of the Lord Almighty," the respected business leader added.

The ceremony attracted a host of political leaders, captains of industries and business executives, including, His Excellency Peter Obi, a former Anambra State Governor and the Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP in the 2019 general election, who was accompanied by his wife, Margaret Obi; Chief Okey Ezeibe, a business tycoon and the leader of the PDP in Orumba; Hon Chukwuka Onyema, the lawmaker representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives; Hon Obinna Chidoka, the legislator representing Idemili North/Idemili South at the Federal House of Representatives; Dame Azuka Enemo, the PDP deputy governorship candidate in the 2021 Anambra guber election; Hon Gabriel Onyenweife, a former federal lawmaker; His Royal Majesty Igwe Peter Anugwu of Mbaukwu; Senator Victor Umeh, a former federal lawmaker; Chief Austine Oguejiofor (Onwa Enugwu-ukwu n' Umunri), the CEO of Rotech Energies.

Others are Chief Ndubuisi Nwobu, the outgoing PDP Chairman in Anambra State; Mr Obinna Ufudo, a former President/Group CEO of Transcorp; Mr Nonso Okpala, the GMD/CEO of VFD Group; Mr Robert Umeozulu, an international food industry magnate; Mr Jude Ochili (Ikemba Ojoto), a Fidelity Bank topshot; Barr Emeka Okafor; Tobe Okigbo, a top executive at MTN; Rt Hon Eucharia Azodo, a former Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly and former member of the Federal House of Representatives; Hon Tim Egboka, a former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly; Hon Barr Val Ayika, a former member of both the Anambra State House of Assembly and the Federal House of Representatives; Chief Tony Offiah, a top PDP leader; Fidelis Anosike, the Founder of Folio Groups; Chief Andy Azike, an insurance industry tycoon; Dr Ifedi Okwenna, a former Anambra State Commissioner; leaders and members of the 2021 Anambra Governorship Campaign Organisation and PDP members from within and outside Anambra State.

​

Rev Dr. Jeremiah Nwachukwu-Ugochukwu is the Senior Pastor, Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Nkpor, Anambra State.​ ​ In this interview, he speaks about the 2023 presidential election, his relationship with Uma Ukpai, his advice to Charles Soludo, among other issues.

​

What’s your view about ongoing agitation for a Nigerian President of Igbo extraction in 2023?

I am not among those talking about Igbo presidency in 2023, because, I believe the region is not ready politically to produce president. One, Igbo political elite is concentrated in the PDP.​ ​ They make little percentage in the ruling All Progressive Congress. With a scenario like this, it would be hard for APC to give its presidential ticket to the southeast, except the party is planning to fail, and has decided to gift the presidency to the PDP.

The Southeast are more inclined towards PDP, but even if the PDP gives its presidency to the southeast, it will be difficult to win the APC, which is more dominant in the southwest, and APC is likely to move in that direction.

The southeast believes it is their turn to produce president. They believe that they have sacrificed so much to the unity and continued coexistence of Nigeria. They are insisting that the presidency should rotate, not just between the north and the south; but also between the south west and the south east. They’re correct!

But, it is clear that votes of Igbo people alone cannot give them presidency. In 2015, the entire south-east gave Jonathan two million, five hundred thousand votes. How could the Igbo decide their fate in 2023 with that number?

Again, how could people who are undecided on whether they want presidency, Biafra or referendum achieve presidency? Most political leaders in the south-east are driven by selfish tendencies, and this has affected the people over the years. Will a president of Igbo extraction be realized when the people are not united, and cannot speak with one voice?

​

Would you comment on ex-Governor Obiano’s face-off with EFCC?

I don’t have much to comment because the main case of the former governor of Anambra State with EFCC is not yet open to the world. The only reservation or suspicion about the whole issue was the haste with which he wanted to travel out of the country, just few hours after handing over to his successor. It was suspicious that he handed over in the afternoon, and went to the airport in the evening hours to travel to Texas, USA.​ ​ It sounds suspicious. Notwithstanding, he has the right to decide what to do, when to do it, and how to do it. He has the freedom of movement. But one would have expected him to take a little rest before traveling out. But he said he was traveling on health grounds. So, he should be assumed innocent until he is proved to have committed any crime. If he has case with EFCC, he should face the case squally; but if it were stage-managed to embarrass him, EFCC should tender unreserved apology for the breach in his fundamental rights.

​

What is your advice to Governor Charles Soludo?

I will advice Governor Charles Soludo not to allow issues unrelated to business of his office to distract him from realizing the expectations of his people. Issues such as sit-at-home initiated by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have been there before he came to office. It did not stop his predecessor and other governors of the south-east from actualizing the businesses of governing their states. So, he should not allow it to sway his attention. That should not be his focus for now.

Soludo should not allow trifling issues to sway his attention from the business of governance. There are many issues yearning for attention. Much is expected of him from the people that elected him into office. He cannot afford to disappoint their expectations.

Also, the governor should shun sycophants. He should learn from the mistakes of those that allowed false people to lock around them. The governor should listen to constructive advises. He should listen to those that have good intentions. That is how he will succeed.

I will also commend him for his vision to keep Onitsha and its environs clean, especially the markets. I will also advise citizens of the state not to sabotage the exercise and the governor’s efforts; since they are good steps towards healthier Anambra State.​ ​ Soludo should also avoid wasteful spending, but should channel the state resources to areas they are most needed.

Again, since he is the only governor of APGA extraction, he should strive to make it a regional party; not state party. I will advise him to move towards propagating the party in other S’east states. 2023 general election is a good opportunity for him to start this bold step.

​

Recently, you bagged honorary doctorate degree in Theology. What would this say about your ministry?

I was surprised to get a letter from the office of my father in the Lord, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, the president and founder of Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association that I would be conferred the Honorary Doctor of Theology from Uma Ukpai Theological School, an affiliate of the University of Uyo.

I am very excited that such honour was bestowed on me by a renowned father. I know he has many sons; but we were only six that bagged the doctorate award; including the present governor of Akwa Ibom State. I felt very excited. I also understand that it is a call to greater duty. I promise that by the grace of God, I will do the much that I can to continue to serve God and humanity.

​

What is your personal relationship with Uma Ukpai?

It was in 2007 that he adopted me officially as his spiritual son. In 2009, he honoured our invitation to be with us in the Bible Base Miracle Assembly during our City Wide Crusade. Since then, he had continued to minister in our church for uninterrupted 13 years. The honour was because of our little contributions to the kingdom in evangelizing the world, and winning more souls to Christ.

The world is a scene with different characters and characterizations. Some are born great. Some became great through dints of hardwork and exposure. Few fits in both categories or more. Her Excellency, Princess Mrs Nwanneka (renowned as Nwanne) Campo (nee Eze) is one of such great people.
Born in a Royal home at Ukehe, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State and married to a Spainard Engineer, the showbiz guru and multi-talented award winning ambassador of peace is one woman you would love to meet. She recently marked a golden jubilee anniversary of her sojourn on earth. OKECHUKWU ONUEGBU stumble on the lady with Midas touch and entered a discourse with her. Read on!

Who is Princess Campo?

Her Excellency Chief Princess Mrs Nwanne Campo was born 50 years ago to a Royal couple from Ukehe in Enugu State and Onitsha in Anambra State respectively. I was a miracle child, the 1st surviving child after my mum lost the previous 6 pregnancies. I was given so many names but till my secondary school days I was officially known as Peace Nwanneka Eze but I changed the order of my names before I went into the University. I prefer to have my Igbo name as my first name instead of the English name because I love it and all it stands for.. (NWANNEKAEGO which means having loved ones is supreme to money). I also changed my name because I wished with all my heart to marry an European and wanted my Igbo name to tell the world where I came from, Peace Campo wouldn't have been easily traced to Africa or Nigeria. I was very young but knew exactly what I wanted for myself. I am grateful to God that he granted me my husband (a Spanish Civil Engineer) who is the biggest and best gift from God, through him came my most precious treasures, our daughters.
Though I work as an English auxiliary teacher in Santander Spain, I am a showbiz guru, fashion designer, awardwinning event planner, MC, Modelcoach, motivational speaker, actress, event Hall designer but above all my strongest vocation is being a humanitarian so in whatever of my careers, I always care about the wellbeing and happiness of others. While the Actors guild of Nigeria existed in Spain, I was it's Director of welfare. I think that is my major calling, caring for others and bringing happiness and hope to everyone.
I am very passionate about sharing love, peace and happiness to all. I respect everyone irrespective of their age, sex, race or status but I have zero tolerance for rude/mannerless people.


May we know how you celebrated the 50 years anniversary?

Though I always dreamt of throwing a big party to celebrate my 50th birthday but due to the corona virus pandemic, I spent the day just with my husband and our 2 daughters. I decorated the sitting room with balloons, cooked and had a great time with my family. I had calls all day from family, friends and fans from all over the world. I received gifts sent to me from India, Nigeria, Netherlands, Germany, Australia and Spain. I am very grateful to everyone that showed me love throughS birthday wishes, prayers, calls or sent gifts to me. May God bless, reward and honour each of them abundantly.

How was growing up like to you?

I have been extremely lucky to have been born in a very wealthy and popular family, I had a very comfortable life, never did house chores till I got married and relocated to Spain. As a child, I learnt to be a humanitarian thanks to my parents that taught my sibbings and I to help the less privileged and never look down on them. It was normal to have the needy seek for our assistance and we were taught to respect everyone irrespective of their financial or social status. We had a large number of workers from different tribes of Nigeria. My family is not tribalistic. I am grateful to my mum for teaching us that. I discovered my passion for organising and anchoring events at a tender age. I would efficiently plan every detail of my sibbings birthday parties, train my dance group made up of my friends and neighbours. Many of those children parties I organised as from when I was 12/13 years old were televised. My friends still talk about them whenever we go down the memory lane together. I got the gift of being a good orator from my mum who was and is still a popular TV personality, being MC of those events and being congratulated for the successful events gave me much joy and made me desire to organise bigger events. Truly it wasn't common for a teenager to do the things I was doing then. I flew around the country with my mum attending the Better life for women events, I assisted my mum at their stands in various trade fairs across the Country where she displayed and sold her art works. We lived in the Exclusive Government Reserved Area in Enugu (G. R. A), I had opportunities to meet very important people including my Japanese "parents" and later my husband who was our neighbour.
I was privileged to have attended Queen's school in Enugu which was the best school that existed, I later gained admission to Nnamdi Azikiwe University where I studied Sociology.


Princess Campo is a Nigerian and Spaniard. Can you let us into your marital journey to Europe?

I met a Spanish Civil Engineer who was our neighbour at Savage Crescent Street in G. R. A, Enugu. We clashed at first sight because I was told he was a racist, that he fired all the workers in the house where he moved in. That house was my second home as my Japanese parents lived there close to my biological parents. The mansion had a permanent domestic staff while the "Masters" usually Asians/Europeans rented the premises on short-term. So I grew up seeing same workers in that premises. The activist in the naive me sprung into action on sighting him cutting the grass in his compound, I got down from the taxi I took on my way home from Campus and told him what I thought of his actions, he attacked me back calling me a small girl and asked me to run off to my parents which got me very angry. Well, he made up his mind on that spot to marry me but I never knew that and wouldn't have believed that would happen as I thought I hated him. On getting home from that incident, my mum excitedly asked me to organise a welcome party for the new neighbour, you can't imagine how bad I felt but I had to obey my Mum. At the party, he came to where I was dancing and put his arms around my waist to take me to sit down as he said I was dancing too much, there was a huge silence as such body contacts/displays were not encouraged except for married couples. I tried to get his hands off my waist but he held me tight and I ended up sitting down to avoid more unnecessary attention. I thought he didn't know our culture but to my dismay he whispered that he knows exactly what he did which got me furious. Well, my mum invited him over days after and found out why he fired the previous domestic staff. All the big bags of food that he stacked in the house including a full goat, fishes and beverages disappeared from his house within a very short time and he only came home for dinner, it was incredible as the staff all denied seeing anyone remove those stuff from the main house so he fired all of them. My mum felt bad about what the workers did and invited him to have dinner with my family every night. He accepted and I was uncomfortable with seeing him around but I really can't tell the exact moment I fell in love with him. I was never allowed to go out without permission or past 6pm, I guess that made him to visit us every evening after work, he brought pastries daily. Being with my family varios hours daily made him study me, notice certain things. He would always comfort me when I was too harshly and wrongly scolded. Gradually I relaxed and started seeing him as an extremely kind and loving person but wondered why he was not married, I kind of became his adviser. I encouraged him to stop smoking and drinking heavily. I fell in love and knew he was the soul mate that I have prayed for since my parents' traumatic divorce when I was 13.
He was highly welcomed to my family home till he solicited for my hand in marriage. Hell broke loose and I was forced to take the drastic and one of the most difficult decisions of my life. After he brought to our home at Enugu the first palm wine e.t.c to seek for my hand in marriage, he was misled in the next step and he carried the things in the list given to him by my family to Onitsha.. My late grand Uncle Chief Barrister Ogudebe told him that such wasn't valid as my paternal family should be the receptors of those stuff and the rightful ones to give their consent.. That was an impossible mission as thunders struck at the mere mention of my father's name. Meanwhile so many preferred suitors then started visiting my home, I didn't know that they were initially waiting for me to finish my studies but as they saw that the foreigner was about to cart away with their desired treasure, they was pressure. My heartthrob and I went to seek to get married in the church but Rev Nwizu of All Saints Church in G. R. A, Enugu who was a close family friend told us that our parents were the ones to present and solicit for the holy matrimony for us. I must mention that my husband's family were also against our marriage. Seeing that we both had unmovable obstacles to go about it the normal way, we decided to get married secretly. We applied for the special licence which was needed for international marriage, when we got it, we chose a date and got married at Enugu Local government townhall on the 15th of September 1992. I was 20 years old. It was tough as I always dreamt of my wedding to be fabulous as befitting the Princess that I am. Well, I don't even have a picture of that ceremony as we didn't invite people not even a photographer so that they will not disclose our secret plan. I leave it to your imagination to guess what happened when my family found out, I was already pregnant by the time they got to know of my marriage. My husband was often set up, accused of being a spy or whatever which got him arrested almost every Friday and released afterwards . We had to leave Nigeria with our little baby due to the various attempts of some important people to frustrate my husband and also because of the political crisis and unrest of 1993. It took 3 years plus before we returned to Nigeria again on the request of my family, I was pregnant with our second daughter. Misfortune struck again as we lost the container with all the goods and properties will sent down to Nigeria to try once again to have the life we dreamt of. Unfortunately, it was same old story, my husband and I decided to pack up relocate with our 2 daughters (Princesses Julia and Consuelo) in 1999 as things were getting worse in Nigeria. I actually live a life of no regrets but surely would have loved it if my family and my husband's family accepted our decision to get married.


How were you able to cope marrying to a Spaniard?

Meeting his family and learning to survive without the luxury I was used to were the toughest part of my early days in Europe. Like many Europeans, they had little or no idea what life is like in Africa, they thought everyone in that continent lacked food, shelter, education and in other words they considered us inferior beings. My late Father - in- law loved me and protected me from other members of the family that disliked my husband and I to the core. A cruel cold welcomed me to Europe. I will never forget that winter day. It was my first trip to Europe. Not knowing Spanish language made matters worse as it makes one seem to be an illiterate. I was blessed to have had my father in law's compassion, Late Don Ignacio Campo Snr became my protector and teacher/mentor to the discomfort of some of the Campo family members that loved mocking me. I was determined to adapt to my new environment so I learnt the language with the help of a dictionary while my father- in - law taught me how to cook, clean up with the gadgets I never saw in Nigeria then. I was never allowed to cook, clean dishes or do house chores before I got married, we had lots of people that handled all those tasks while my siblings and I were expected to study and have good results. Being without my husband in a not friendly family house almost choked me up not to mention that living in a small room in their family house made me fill like caged as I was used to very spacious rooms in our mansions in Nigeria. I felt caged because his late stepmother would nag all day, mocking me and insulting her husband for protecting me. I had no where to go for me not to hear her so I spent most time inside my room with my few months old daughter . I had to learn fast and in 6 months I could speak, read and write Spanish on a basic level.
As soon as I felt I can do the shopping, house chores and cooking by myself, my husband rented a flat and we moved in though he was working temporary in other States, he came home every weekend. For me, making our marriage work against all odds is the first biggest achievement for both of us. Secondly haven encouraged and seen our daughters study and graduate against all odds is another huge achievement for me. Why you would ask? Hmmm I fought hard for that as I had to be a stay home mum to give my children all the love, encouragement and assistance that they needed. It hurt me when my elder daughter who did brilliantly in primary 1 in the Italian international school in Lagos, Nigeria was forced to repeat Primary 1 in Spain as the system is not same, kids start Primary School from 6 years. Besides that, non of the certificates from Nigeria was valid here, I was even advised to go back to school to sit for their Primary, Secondary school exams and then get admission into their university. That felt like an insult to me. So I told my husband that I wouldn't want our daughters to have difficulties in working in their country after studying in Africa so I told him that I wish to bring them up in Spain but we agreed that he could travel and work wherever possible. He came visiting once in a year though we later reached to a point where I would visit him in whatever Country he was working as a year was too long to be without him. Well, back to why seeing my daughters through the University was another of my biggest achievements, my husband got struck by cancer and our lives turned upside down in 2013. I had to give up my showbiz career and nurse him, it took like 2 years before he could eat again through the mouth. As he wasn't working, there was no income, I had to source for the money to pay for my children's school fees, accommodation and feeding. My Priest and Caritas ( the Catholic NGO) helped me with some food and cash for 3 years. I sold most of my gold jewelleries and put in my whole salaries in paying for their school fees and other expenses. Today, 9 years after my husband's tough battle with cancer, my elder daughter is a nurse while my younger daughter, who is a Criminologist is currently doing her Masters . Though I am grateful to God for a whole lot of things that I have achieved, our almost 30 years old happy marriage and our daughters success top the list of our achievements.


Considering this, if you're to come to life again, would you still love to be a Nigerian and Spaniard?

Absolutely Yes, but I don't want to marry just any Spanish but Chief Engineer Ignacio Campo. I would blindly marry him in the next life irrespective of his nationality, have our 2 daughters and maybe more children but I would wish for both of us to be born into happy, united families where love and peace reigns so that we can enjoy life with our extended families.


At 50 years, what can you say is your greatest achievements, why and how were you able to attain it?

Though I have achieved a lot of my goals during my 50 years of journey on earth, having a solid 30 years of very happy marriage against all odds and haven done my best to see my daughters through the University even when life was putting a lot of obstacles for us, are surely the greatest achievements for me.
Well, all Glory goes to God first and foremost. My husband and I desired the marital bliss we have and both of us put in a lot of effort from the beginning to make it work by the special grace of God. As for being able to pay for my daughters University fees when we could barely feed due to my husband's tough battle with cancer, I sold my jewelleries to foot most bills till God sent help through some angels we never imagined. As many family and some friends abandoned us to our fate, our Parish Priest and the Catholic NGO helped us with some food and cash for good 3 years till my husband's health got stable enough for me to leave him at home and go to work. Today our first daughter, Princess Julia is a nurse and Princess Chelo is a Criminologist.


Are there what Mrs Campo considered as turn on and turn off?

I would say I love humble, polite, empathetic, kindhearted, candid, cheerful, optimistic, jovial, down to earth, hardworking and generous people. Fashion wise, flashy/outstanding gorgeous people turn me on. For Turn off: I can't stand liars, narcissists, manipulators, oppressors and arrogant, cruel, greedy, selfish, vengeful, aggressive, lazy and pessimistic people .


You might have won some awards. Kindly let us into some of them!

I have won awards from some Nigerian /african organisations in Spain, Holland and Nigeria such as Naija EU Best Nigerian event planner...Madrid, Spain 2012.
Medal of honour, best Nigerian MC from Anambra State Association, Malaga,Spain.
Woman of Dignity Award from Hephzibah Christian Association in Valencia, Spain .. 21/11/2015.
I was coronated as Chief Osodieme of Awka Kingdom by His Royal Majesty Obi Dr Gibson Nwosu, Ezeuzu of Awka Kingdom in Anambra State (30 Dec 2017). I received eminent Peace Ambassador award by International association of World Peace Advocates / United Nations Peace Volunteers on 14/06/2018.


What message do you have for young Nigerians and Spaniards (especially on marriages and traveling overseas)?

Love is a beautiful thing, relationships are sweet when both parties are in love. Everyone is unique, those that want to be in relationship with people from other cultures will have to work harder than other couples to understand their partners, their way of reasoning, beliefs, traditions, fears, dreams e.t.c. It is absolutely important to be open minded and have no prejudices. They need to be extra generous in their communications. I would advise Nigerians and Africans in general that wish to relocate to first of all investigate and know the countries that encourage the academical and financial growth of Africans. There are some countries where it is very difficult to work with Nigerian or African diplomas/certificates. Those that wish to travel should also learn some crafts and improve on their skills because a times, one has to survive on that while studying or trying to get a desired job.
Thirdly, not all countries speak English so if one wishes to relocate to any of such countries, it is very important for them to learn the language even if it is on basic level.
Fourthly, life in most developed countries are expensive, those intending to travel to study or work in those countries should make sure they have enough cash to sustain them before they can start earning some cash there.
Fifthly, I think that it is absolutely crucial for travellers to know the culture and norms/laws of their host countries to avoid getting into trouble.
Sixthly, when they luckily move to their desired countries, they should do their best to socialize with the natives of the host Countries thereby integrating into society.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

A retired Director in Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mr Emeka Ejide has expressed optimism that the State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo would outperform his predecessor if he invest more on Child development.

Ejide, who is currently a Child rights protection expert, said that investing on children amounts to investing on future and making ways for greater development.

The Director, My Child, My Care, a Non-governmental Organisations (NGO) that promotes child development, stated this when the Executives of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Anambra State Council paid a courtesy call to his office on Friday.

He called for a support of the new Government, describing Soludo as a Divinely ordained project that needs collaborations of all to succeed.

According to him, expectations were high for the new government due to his charisma, previous achievements, campaign promises and current socioeconomic development of the state.

"I am so glad that Soludo has shown passion to development of children even before he officially took over as governor. He sponsored school children in Aguata. We also saw what he did at Okpoko when he visited the place and interacted with school children. He discovered during the visit that the children will not likely become great in a slum; where there is no conducive environment.

"He has promised to develop the area, to give them potable water, power supply and others so they can easily realise their potentials in life. This shows that he understands that when you train a child you secured the future generations. I want you the executive of NUJ to help this government and society at large to succeed.

"You are all experts in your chosen career in print and broadcast media. Your emergence is also devinely ordained. Do not relent in exposing evils and promoting good governance. I will support your administration too. I am a Child development expert. Everything about child's right and emancipation is my concern. I have consulted with the UNICEF, European Union, RoLAC and others for child development," he added.

Earlier, the State Chairman, NUJ, Anambra State Council, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, sought partnership with the Director of My Child, My Care in promoting the course of children in the State, as according to him, his various achievements in that direction was commendable.

Taxpayers in Anambra rose from 11,000 to 506,000 in my tenure, former AiRS boss

Okey Uzoma

The Chairman, Anambra Internal Revenue Service (AIRS), Dr. David Nzekwu, has bowed out after four years of meritorious service as chief executive of the agency, following the appointment of Mr. Richard Nwora Madiebo by the newly minted administration of Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo as governor of the south-eastern state. 

Speaking to newspersons on Friday, March 25, the ex-AIRS boss graciously thanked the outgone governor, Chief Willie Obiano, for the opportunity to have served the state, restating the role of technology in resolving the challenges of informal and indiscriminate revenue collection in the State.

Earlier reports in the media had erroneously quoted him as saying that he left N30.9billion in Anambra government coffers which he declined, clarifying that the state Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) outlay has since risen from N17 billion when he assumed office in March 2018 to N30.9 billion as at the close of fiscal year 2021. 

Findings show that yearly IGR in the State grew from N17billion in 2018, N26billion in 2019, N28billion in 2020, to N30.9billion in 2021 on the back of the agency’s continuous enumeration and automation, strengthening enforcement initiatives and sustaining the growth of tax database.

Internally Generated Revenue is projected at N3.35billion monthly and N40.29bn annually for the current fiscal year 2022, compared to N3.04billion monthly and N36.6billion annually for year ended 2021, the State Annual Budget 2022 presentation reads.

He stated that the number of taxpayers in the state rose from 11,000 to 506,000 being individuals and organizations during the same period due to structural reforms and processes, which his office effected, affirming that N513.9billion total bills are pending for collection across 2.1 million bills that has been electronically generated and uploaded on the state’s digital database.

He alluded that his term as chairman, amongst other things, saw the deployment of technology architecture that was robust for revenue administration, building on a central and vertical systems, with Anambra State Social Identity Number (ANSSID) as a core. Recall that in April 2019, the ex-AIRS boss made ANSSID compulsory for all transactions conducted by taxpayers in the state. This prompted more taxpayers to register and obtain the unique ANSSID number before any payment for government service in the State.

According to him, ‘‘The need to harmonise revenue in the State cannot be overemphasized, and particular attention has to be paid to harmonizing on the account of the taxpayers, as opposed to harmonizing on Revenue Heads. This necessitated our effort to implement electronic billing for Ministries, Departments & Agencies (MDAs) in and electronic receipting system with the introduction of automated Central Billing System and automated Central Receipting System in the state.’’ By harmonizing revenue on the account of the taxpayer, it is easier to know what each taxpayer has been billed, what they have paid and what they owe which improves administration and accountability, making it more difficult for taxpayers to evade payment.

He said that the agency under his watch introduced Community Revenue Officers (CROs) who serve as contacts between the tax authority and the taxpayers in different communities in the state. By dividing the state into compartments of communities and assigning the compartments to CROs, the service is able to cover the entire state and reach all taxpayers in a more efficient manner using the CROs who serve as Account Officers to the taxpayers and manage collections from each Revenue Head within their assigned community.

The ex-AIRS boss further emphasized the importance of enrolment in solving the challenges of informal sector collections. He believes that informal exist only in the absence of formalization. He recommended enrolment of all players in the so called informal sector and the adoption of electronic ticketing for revenue from parks and suchlike locations to minimize leakages arising from manual and indiscriminate revenue collection by non-state actors.

On further increasing the IGR of the State, he noted that value and numbers were two important variables. Hence, the need for a review of the rates while efforts are continued at increasing the number of taxpayers by enroll more taxpayer into the system. He also noted the need to explore other latent areas that will improve the state IGR such as property tax which has not been explored in the state since 2011, stating that property tax alone can remit to the state as much as N15 billion in 2022.

Somtochukwu Ezeaniomenyi is the Chief Executive officer, CEO, Som-Tee Group, a multilateral cleaning company in Anambra state. He is a young and dynamic Nigerian entrepreneur currently making waves in industrial cleaning business. Born to Igbo parents of Neni extraction in Anambra state,  Somto, in this interview with Okechukwu Okechukwu x-rayed his experiences in the female dominated cleaning business and what triggered his passion to be an entrepreneur. He also spoke on the draw-backs hindering business and what government must do to help young entrepreneurs in the state and country. Excerpts:

 

Can we meet you?

My name is Somtochukwu Ezeaniomenyi. I'm a native of Umuabani Village, Neni in Anaocha Local Government Area Anambra State I am the Managing Director of Som-Tee Cleaning Services Ltd.
 

How was your Childhood days and family experience?


My growing up was fun. Though I was not born with a silver spoon, it was not too tough because I am the sixth child out of seven and the second boy out of three so I had siblings that are older, though there were ups and down, you know. I didn't grow up in a first class family and because that, it was a tough fight, trying to make it through the primary, secondary and then tertiary institutions.

What was your childhood dream?

My childhood dream was to become an engineer but later switched my desire to becoming a lawyer.

Now, you are neither an engineer nor a lawyer, what happened to the both?

Well. Like I said, when I was growing up, actually, my first dream was to become an engineer because I loved constructing and repairing things. But that dream was shattered in my secondary school because I was bad in physics - so, I switched from Science to an Art class and my interest shifted from being and engineer to a lawyer because I felt I was very good in arguments. I never saw me becoming a professional cleaner or establishing a company for business, laughs.


What drove you into Professional Cleaning?

I started cleaning job immediately after my secondary education. Within the one year I stayed at home waiting for admission; I had a friend of my sister that was into industrial cleaning then. My sister linked me up to him and I was working for him as a laborer; that was in 2014 and I was being paid one thousand naira (N1,000) per day because I did more of the menial jobs. The nature of the job was tough for me at that time. Again, it needed strong hands but I devoted my time with him to learning the craft. I worked for him for ten days before he suddenly stopped calling me for works after he noticed that I was gradually learning the craft indirectly. As a result, each time I called my colleagues to know how far, they would say they went for work. Then when I ask my Oga, he would say ‘work no dey.’

What happened later?

On December 2014, A friend of mine whose uncle just finished building a house, convinced me to go and meet his uncle for the job. I had wanted to link the man to my boss because I was scared to take up the job myself. After much Persuasion, I later took up the courage to do the job myself with the little Knowledge I gathered while working with my former boss and the rest was history. That was the first contract I got in the cleaning industry and it happened to be the turning point of my life because from that day onwards, God made a way for me. As a matter of fact we have done over 600 cleaning Jobs and have worked for varieties of companies and individuals over the years.

Have you encountered any challenge along the line?

There were many challenges. One of our major challenges was Finance. There was no machine which made the work so hard for me and my Team. We were doing most of the jobs manually. it was so hard purchasing working equipments because I always rely on a job to purchase the materials needed. However, I don’t have a vehicle so I made use of the commercials; it was so hard to transport our working equipments to some locations. Due to some bad road networks in the state, some of our client’s locations are difficult to access. Again, most people in Anambra especially Onitsha where I started perceived cleaning as an ordinary work that can be done by anybody, this has resulted to many rejections from contractors and house owners, but so far we are trying to change the narrative. Also, after I gained admission to study at Federal College Of Education (Technical), Umunze in 2015, I was in constant battle, trying to combine work with Education. You know, my Education usually take all of January to September so, I usually face the heat period of ember months as cover-up for lost times.

Did you envisage continuing the work after school?

No. I wasn't serious with the job in any way because I didn’t see myself continuing with it after school. It was more of part time or casual work.

Were there other things you did to survive in school within the January to September months?

Yes. I could remember I sold face caps and shirts around 2016/17. That aside, I was into interior decorations. I decorate people's house; paintings and the rest. I was also doing some menial labours like job man, site work and even served masons. In 2018, I learnt how to do Sharwama and also ventured into doing that too. I did Hypeman job in clubs too. I was doing anything legal called work and I did all these to survive.

Why did you decide to go into cleaning having been exposed to these numerous jobs?

Well, when I finished my NCE program in 2018, I asked myself: what next? Because I realized I needed something to sustain myself. The works I do then had all been part time and among them all, it was cleaning that gives me the profit to believe in. I found out it is something I do with passion. Cleaning work doesn't come always but when it comes, I take it with love. So, after graduation, I continued with it and was only keen to develop it. At a point, I started surfing the web on industrial cleaning and noticed that it is one of the biggest industries in the world. I noticed it was not too conversant in Anambra state then, I decided to carve a niche for myself in the area.

At what point did you decide to have a Som-Tee as a brand?

In 2020 during the lockdown season, the vision was to build a standard company and not just a one man company in cleaning industry. That’s why I’m building it as a company; a brand in the industry that would be running even in my absence. I did not want the legacies I had set over the years to just die off. So, I had to set it up to a standard with vision of where we are going to.
 

Cleaning is a female dominated field. How does it feel competing with women?

It has not been an easy task. In fact, you can count the number of men in this industry. Sometimes, you find out that site owners have sisters and female friends that do the cleanings for them. However, what has kept me going is excellence. Because it is usually my clients that recommend me to other clients and it is due to our job quality. Over the years, I have found refuge in recommendations. Most of the big jobs we have done so far were gotten from recommendations and referrals and it is due to the excellence in my work.
 

Are there times you felt like leaving the industry considering its competitiveness?

Of course! There were times I wanted to give up on the industry. It is very competitive and demanding. People outside might not really know these but it is we that are into it that know the level of competition here. You can see people that just started cleaning business yesterday and today, they have all the machines available and you’re still struggling. So sometimes, especially at the initial stage, when the needed finance was not there to acquire certain machines, I felt like dropping back.

Why do you refer your company as a conglomerate?

Som-Tee Group is a conglomerate because we are designed to deal in Everything Cleaning. Som-Tee specializes in all kinds of cleaning Ranging From

1. Domestic/Residential Cleaning which includes Regular Cleaning, Deep Cleaning, Janitorial Cleaning, Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning, Polishing of Tiles and Bricks.

2. Industrial/Commercial Cleaning which includes Post-Construction/Renovation Cleaning, Facility Management/Maintenance, Retainership Services, Training/Mentorship and General Consulting/Contracting.

3. Environmental Cleaning which includes Waste Management and Disposal, Estate/Street Cleaning,

Drainage and Sewage cleaning, etc

4. We also have plans of Venturing into Production of Cleaning Substance and also Sales of Cleaning Equipments and Materials. Laundry Hubs, Car Wash are also in the pipeline.

So Som-Tee Group is a Specialized Conglomerate of Everything Cleaning, We are building a company that would be a sort out company when it comes to Cleaning.

What stands your brand out from others?

We offer credibility and excellence. Like I told you before, what has kept us so far over the years is excellence. Our staff works with passion because they see the passion in me. I didn't start cleaning because of the money I was making but the passion I have for it. So, excellence is the watchword and any house we are called to clean, we clean it like our life depends on it.

You established the company even before you graduated from the university, what was the secret behind the feat?

It was Grace from God. I wouldn't have been here as a fresh graduate and an owner of such a brand without His Grace. It was not an easy journey physically but it was His Grace that kept me going. I finished my NCE in 2018, and by 2019, God made this company even grew bigger. In the process of my Degree Education, being able to combine it was a very rough and risky journey but His Grace was there to see me through.

Would you consider going into other sectors if given the opportunity?

Well. Like I said earlier, Som-Tee Group is a conglomerate. We are working towards branching into so many things. We are working towards production of different cleaning materials, sales of cleaning equipments; importation of different kinds of machines for cleaning, procurement services and lots more. Our vision is to build a standout company that can handle anything cleaningIf any opportunity comes aside these; I can grab it as well.

So far, could you name your biggest achievement(s)?

My biggest achievement, so far, is being able to run this company for the past seven years.Som- Tee at seven, many things happened. Building this business up to this level and handling over five hundred jobs alongside going through school and acquiring Two Certificates in Education. That has been the biggest achievement of my life so far.

How many jobs have you been able to create through your conglomerate?

My company has been able to create no fewer than 50 jobs for youths in Anambra state. Both Fulltime and part time.

Where do you see your brand in the next five years?

We should be among the top class cleaning conglomerates in Nigeria because we would be all round in the cleaning industry including environmental, commercial, residential and domestic cleaning. We would also be all round in supplies of cleaning machines and products. So, in the next five years, expect Som-Tee Group to operate beyond the shores of Nigeria by the grace of God.

How well do you think Anambra government has done in creating business opportunities and what is interesting about Anambra man?

Anambra state has done well in all ramifications, such as natural resources, oil and gas, urbanization and structural planning, culture and tourism, religion, education, entertainment, business and politics. Anambra state has improved drastically in all of these sectors over the years. Anambra State has list of notable men and women both old and young in all sectors both in within and outside Nigeria. The people of Anambra are known for being Industrious, hard working and Smart. Despite some challenges they face when it comes to governmental structures and policies, People of Anambra are known for their resilience. They have shown great courage in striving to survive no matter the Economic Situation in the Country. Being Onye Anambra is something one should be very proud of. The people of Anambra are known for their resourcefulness and they are associated with Success and progress Regardless of the conditions surrounding their environment. I am proud of being Onye Anambra.

What triggered your passion to be an entrepreneur and how viable is doing business in Anambra?

To many youths in Nigeria, becoming an entrepreneur might seem like a scary and high risk taking journey, but to me, this unpredictable adventure seems like the perfect path that my life should take. There are many reasons that triggered my passion to be an entrepreneur. I have always admired great and Successful entrepreneurs. Seeing successful people inspire me a lot to become successful. This gives me the hope and makes me believe that becoming an entrepreneur will allow me to network with people who have already built great businesses. I believe that I have enough potential to find the next profitable idea and change the lives of millions of people.

Being an entrepreneur gives me the freedom to explore my creativity. There is a saying that goes thus “Different Strokes for Different Folks”. People have different callings in Life. Being a 9-5er doesn't feed my burning passion for creativity and innovation. I feel like I am simply doing what the society expects of me instead of making a difference in the world. It is through starting my own business that I get to freely express my creative ideas and fulfill my dreams. I became an entrepreneur because I see it as a mandatory journey to take. A strong fire in my heart makes me believe that I have a strong purpose in the world that surpasses the reality of being an employee. As an entrepreneur, I am driven with the need to succeed and control my own destiny. Owning a business gives me no limitations on the profit and opportunities that I can gain.

I look out to manage projects with high stakes because I have enough confidence to execute them. I love the act of betting on an idea and watching it develops, it makes me smile. I have always wanted to use my company to impact people’s lives and also improve the economy with new job opportunities. I am passionate about helping people more than the pursuit of material things, I derive priceless joy when I offer my service to people and see the happiness and joy it creates in them. That is even more than any reward I can get from a Job.

How viable is doing business in Anambra?

Anambra State is one of the fastest growing states in the country. Like many other states in the country, Anambra state is faced with its own unique challenges. However, due to its fast growing economy, doing business in Anambra is rewarding and Profitable. Doing business in Anambra is very promising and I believe that with persistence, perseverance and Consistency which entrepreneurship requires, I will definitely succeed in an economic driven state like Anambra.

Being someone that started from the scratch, would you say government is fair to the youths?

Well. I would say government has been fair to some extent but there are still rooms for improvement. Government still needs to empower the youths because if they are empowered, they would do more. We have lots of youths doing many things. We have youths with visions. If they are empowered with loans and grants, in the next few years, there would be powerful indigenous companies in Anambra state. Again, when youths are empowered, it would reduce the burden of employment on the government.

Aside loans and grants, do you think there are other things youths need to be successful entrepreneurs?

Yes. Youths need to plan. A youth will succeed when he plans himself very well. You must have a mapped out business plan consisting target audience and areas. When you plan yourself very well, work towards it. Have team members on the edge working and doing their specific duties from their own angles. Though there might be setbacks along the way but if you do your risk management very well, you would be able to cope. But you must plan first.


You are a man of diverse skills, you hold TRCN, NCE and B.Ed certificates, and do you see yourself becoming a teacher someday?

Well. I don't know what God has in stock for me but I always hope for the best. I wouldn't say I will not accept it if the opportunity to lecture or teach comes but it would all depends on the condition attached to it. I acquired the certificate quite alright and so if I am meant to practice it, it’s on God.


Would you consider using the skills you acquired as a teacher in training youths on industrial cleaning?

Sorry I didn't mention it earlier. Part of the conglomerate is Som-Tee Training Academy, where all our newly recruited staff is given sound training. Soon we would be organizing seminars to teach people who are ready to learn the craft so as to establish their own company in the future.


Are you single?

Yea! I'm still single.


How do you cope with female admirers?

It is a big challenge anyway but God remains God. I have been in series of relationship in the past but now I'm working on myself and my future. I want to develop myself before thinking anything about relationship again.

Do you have role model(s)?

Yea! My number one role model is Dr. Stanley Uzochukwu, the CEO of Stanel Group. He is my Boss, Father, Mentor and my overall Chairman. Ever since I met him, my vision has widened. I also have the likes of Arc. Chukky Ezenwa, CEO GSS Group, Tony Elumelu,CEO Heir Holdings, Dr Cosmas Maduka, CEO Coscharis Group, and lots more. They are the people I look up to and wish to become like someday.


What is your advice to the youths who may want to toe your path?

In as much as they go to formal schools, every youth should learn a skill no matter how small it is. Having a skill is more or less a second plan. There are skills in writing, producing and even in the tech world. There are many skills that can be acquired in the tech world. It is good to learn and practice a skill. We should also have a vision of growing the skill to make something out of it and above all, always pray to God.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Wednesday, deployed a total of 2,195 corps members for the 2022 batch A stream II exercise in Anambra State.

The Anambra State Coordinator, NYSC, Mrs Yetunde Baderinwa, who disclosed this at swearing in ceremony of the potential corps members held at Nnamdi Azikiwe permanent Orientation camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area, revealed that out of the 2,195 corps members, 1100 are males, while the females are 1095.

Yetunde further assured that their security network was intact as the scheme have good working relationship with the local vigilante, police, military, paramilitary and other security outfits, and enjoined corps members to maximally utilised the opportunity to gain more knowledge and skills for future.

"As a prerequisite before gaining entrance into orientation camp, they were screened for COVID-19 and confirmed fit for the exercise. They have been grouped into platoons to enhance effective participation and am glad to state they are adjusting. Life in camp is regimented and can never be compared to what is obtainable at their homes," she maintained.

She also thanked the Anambra State government for its numerous supports to the scheme and their host communities, and urged employers who applied through local government inspectors to be at the camp to convey corps members needed for their institutions on April 7th.

Earlier, in a message, the Director General, NYSC, Major General Shuaibu Ibrahim implored corps members to be discipline, obey the rules and regulations guiding the camp and abstain from cultism, drug abuse and other social vices.

"I implore you to sustain the high level of discipline and enthusiasm you have demonstrated so far, especially by remaining compliant with the camp rules and regulations. You must continue to distance yourself from cultism, drug abuse and other social vices.

"The orientation course is the first cardinal programme of NYSC, and is aimed at introducing you to the objectives and programmes of the scheme. It is a platform for kick-starting various activities that will enable you realise your potentials, and attain individuals feats both within and beyond the period of service," he maintained.