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By Okechukwu Onuegbu

In the spirit of World Press Freedom Day, the Anambra State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and a philanthropist, Valentine Ozigbo have sued for improved welfare packages and working conditions for journalists.

NUJ in a statement issued by her Anambra state Council Chairman and the Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Ifesinachi and Emma Udeagha, enjoined the three arms of government to take urgent measures to strengthen the safety of journalists and improve their working conditions.

According to the Council, this was a precondition for attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), while addressing the threat of extinction faced by state owned media organs and local news stations across the nation due to a huge drop in revenues following the COVID-19 pandemic.

On his part, Ozigbo, a business mogul and aspirant for 2021 Anambra State gubernatorial poll under PDP, called for a total press freedom in the country because the media was "the defenders of our democracy".

"Today, I celebrate the Nigerian press for their resilience and commitment to the professional and the development of Nigeria. Our journalists operate under some of the harshest work conditions in the world, yet they continue to play their role in building Nigeria and growing our democracy.

"Any nation that wishes to progress must guarantee the free flow of information. It is essential that the threats and clampdown on journalists should immediately be stopped. Rather than censorship, governments should enter into partnerships with the media by investing in strengthening and equipping the press to carry out its responsibilities," he added.

He further urged the federal government to respect the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, stressing that if he wins the 2021 poll he would domesticate the FOIA by sponsoring a Freedom of Information bill at the State House of Assembly.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Charles Esimone, has appealed to staff of the institution to refrain from examination malpractice, employment or admission racketeering as they were unethical practices.

Esimone, who stated this while receiving award from the Association of Yoruba Staff of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, stated that staff engaging on unethical practices tarnish their images and those of the university.

The event organised to honour some eminent Nigerians from different ethnic nationalities for their meritorious services to father land and the University Community at the instance of one of them and member Governing Council of NAU, Surveyor Jacob Abiodun Aluko, who has served out his tenure as member of the Governing Council.

Among the award recipients are the Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Charles Esimone, the Chairman, Governing Council of the University, Alhaji Bello Isa Modibo, and member of the Council, Dr Aminu Dukku.

“Surveyor Aluko is a great son of Yoruba land, a great son of Nigeria and a great son of Africa. He has made his marks in the university here as a dependable ally. We will definitely miss his service. But, he must move on.

The Vice Chancellor appreciated the initiative of the Yoruba staff to form a formidable union and charged them to closely monitor the activities of members to ensure that they are not involved in unethical activities that can tarnish the image of the association.

“Don’t allow any of your members who may not align with the general ideal of the association to give you a bad name. Noone should be involved in exam malpractice, admission or employment racketeering. But, think of one thing you want to do for the university that will be named after your association. We can source for fund. I will give approval for such move. With such project, your association will be remembered forever. I promise to support you in any way I can”. Esimone assured.

Responding on behalf of the Chairman, Governing Council, Dr Dukku appreciated the Association of Yoruba staff for keeping alive the spirit of oneness and unity, at a time national unity is under threat.

In a remark, the man of the moment, Surveyor Aluko, expressed profound gratitude to the Association of Yoruba Staff of UNZIK for honouring him in such an unusual manner, even as he noted with joy that the number of Yoruba staff has increased within the four years of his tenure.

Surveyor Aluko encouraged them to be of good behavior, even as he pledged to always assist them anytime he is called upon.

Earlier in an address of welcome, a member of the association, Professor Helen Adebola, noted that the resolution to honour Surveyor Aluko with a send-forth programme, was in appreciation of his undying support and encouragement to the association, during his tenure as board member between 2017 and 2021.

By Ebubechukwuzuloke Brown

All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) 2021 Gubernatorial Aspirant, Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor has hosted the Chairmen and Secretaries of APGA of the 21 Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor who hosted the Chairmen and Secretaries today, Sunday 2nd May, 2021, to intimate them of his Governorship ambition, said that the executives of the party at all levels remain the conscience of the party.

According to him, their efforts and commitment to the party is what has continued to position APGA for electoral victory, noting that every effort should be made to ensure a free and fair primary on June 23rd, as that will ensure the smooth victory for APGA in the 2021 Guber.

Speaking further, Hon. Nonso Okafor who is also the Lawmaker representing Nnewi North in Anambra State House of Assembly, said that his ambition is not only predicted in his desire to consolidate on Governor Obiano's achievements but also to build a viable, independent, secured, and advanced economy for Anambra State through his plan called VISA ECONOMY.

The humble but courageous lawmaker said that he has all the experience and capacity needed of one desirous of emerging the Executive Governor of Anambra State, revealing that as a state lawmaker with membership of eleven sensitive committees, he understands the potentials, problems, and challenges of the state, better than most aspirants in the party.

He said that if elected by APGA delegates to fly the party's flag in the November 6th election, the victory of the party is assured, noting that it will be a renaissance across the nation.

In addition, he announced that he will begin a tour of all the local governments in the state to meet APGA members in different wards in the state.

On their part, some of the party local government chairmen and secretaries who took turns to speak, praised Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor for his boldness and courage in deciding to contest the election, agreeing that to ensure APGA's victory, the outstanding lawmaker should be considered for the ticket of the party.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The member representing Nnewi North constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor, has said his ambition to govern the state was divine and not threatened by presence of other aspirants.

Okafor is vying for governorship tickets of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), with the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Charles Soludo, Nze Akachukwu Nwankpo of Sure-P, and four other persons.

The lawmaker, who added that he was not contesting to displace anyone chance, maintained that his aspiration was backed by youth, 18 out of 24 currently serving state legislators of APGA extractions and others .


Okafor, who has held different leadership position including the office of President, Student Union Government (SUG) of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, assured that he has all it takes to win the 2021 gubernatorial poll if presented with the APGA ticket at their forthcoming primary.


“I don’t understand what people mean by body language. People should stop dropping the name of the governor just to sway people into favouring their aspiration. Anambra is for all of us, and the governor is our governor. Some people say I’m challenging Soludo, but I say no. I’m not challenging Soludo. I’m running for the governorship position, just as Soludo is running. This is an era where people are yearning for young people like me as leaders," he added.


He said his administration woud create enabling environment for conducive teaching and learning and character formation, revolutionise Agriculture, give room for businesses and industries to thrive, and others, while consolidating on governor Willie Obiano's achievement in office.

Hausa community in Anambra South district, Anambra State, has reiterated their resolve to support Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Secretary General of Hausa community in Anambra South Senatorial District, Sali Suleiman, gave the assurance during a rally yesterday in Nnewi, organized by the senator to thank his senatorial district for their support towards achieving his senatorial bid, and to inform them of his intention to join the November 6 governorship election in the state.

Suleiman described Senator Ubah as “a detribalized Nigerian, who does not see the difference among Hausa, Igbo Yoruba and other tribes in Nigeria,” adding that “Ubah sees all Nigerians as a people, who must co-exist in peace and unity.”

“Even before his election into the senate, he had been doing a lot of things that benefited Hausa people and other Nigerians resident in Anambra South. He dug boreholes and provided transformers at different Hausa quarters, and other residential areas in Anambra South with the intention of ensuring regular power and water supplies. While at the senate, he had been extending employment and empowerment opportunities to our people in this senatorial zone.

“As governor of Anambra State, it is our belief that he would come up with programmes that would benefit all Nigerians resident in Anambra. We are sure that 25,000 population of Hausa people in this senatorial district will be a great boost to his governorship bid,” concluded Sali Suleiman.

Speaking, Senator Ubah informed the gathering that he had joined the governorship race under the platform of the Young Progressive Party, YPP.

“My decision to contest under the aegis of the YPP is that the party has Igbo agenda and interest. Everything about the YPP is Igbo. This is a continuation of my aspiration that started in 2014, when I contested under the platform of the Labour Party, LP, but lost to the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA. If we succeeded under this platform, we shall have achieved a milestone towards enthroning Igbo interest in our dear state; and I will continue on my stride to provide better life for Anambra people,” he said.

Earlier, chairman of YPP in Anambra State, Prince Moses Obi, assured the people that YPP would provide good governance in the state if voted into power.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The NYSC, Anambra State, Thursday, held interactive session with some zonal and local government inspectors of the scheme in the state.


The meeting which was also attended by Heads of Branches, was aimed at improving the operations of NYSC Anambra State with regards to the administration of corps members, their wellbeing and safety.

It also sought to review the strategies used in the discharge of duties by field officers, do a critique of the process and adapt appropriately especially in the light of recent security challenges in recent times.

Speaking at the event, the State Coordinator, NYSC, Mr Kehinde Aremu admonished them to be more diligent in carrying out their assignments.

Aremu also enjoined the staff to take special interest in corps members security matters.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

A gubernatorial aspirant of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), in Anambra State 2021 poll, Chief Akachukwu Nwankpo, has vowed to feed pregnant women and school children throughout his tenure.

Nwankpo, who stated this in media chat with the executive members of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State council, also promised to provide smartphones to all families in the state if elected a governor.

According to him, the programmes would help to build, enhance and reposition all families to contribute their qouta in uplifting the state.

“Everyone knows that every pregnant mother must go for antenantal care as required for primary healthcare. So, the structure is already in existence. I promoted healthcare during my time in Sure-P. If elected as governor, the way I will manage the primary healthcare, will make it possible that not only the baby would be taken care of during the antenantal care.

"The mother will also be taken good care of. I will increase the attention mothers gain during the antenantal care. I will provide them with specific nutritional items they need. The feeding will help to enhance their nutritional needs, increase their vitamins intake and other balanced diets. I will also provide counselling to the husband too.

“I will also provide school feeding to school children. I will bring back numerical education, improve teachers quality to improve the education system. I will ensure that every family has smartphones. When they have access to the schools and teachers where their children are enrolled, they can easily monitor activities of their children. It will also help them to maintain good relationship with the teachers, improve their studies and expose them to more opportunities in the world," he added.

Nwankpo also promised to equip schools with modern facilities, train teachers, create jobs, tackle insecurity and power challenges, among others.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka


Nawfia community in Njikoka Local Local Government Area, Anambra State has coroneted a new Traditional Ruler, Dr Shadrach Moguluwa.

Moguluwa was coroneted after his election reportedly held on March 26, 2021, following suspension and subsequent withdrawal of Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo certificate of recognition by Anambra state government.

However, Nwankwo who was among the eleven monarchs that travelled to Abuja in August 2020 alongside 11 others, is still in court challenging the state government, and some members of his community over withdrawal of his certificate and other issues.


Mr Nathan Enemuo, the President General of the town crowned Igwe Moguluwa saying it was in accordance to the provisions of Nawfia Town Union constitution and with the approval of ‘Nze na Oxo’ traditional title holders.


Also speaking, the traditional ruler of the neighbouring Enugwu-Ukwu, Igwe Ralp Ekpeh, expressed gratitude to God, and enjoined the new monarch to stand for justice and equity while acting the role of father to every son and daughter of Nawfia.


On his part, Chief Beluolisa, Chairman Board of Trustee of Nawfia Town Union, described the new traditional ruler as an educated, humble and godly ruler who needed the support of all to succeed.


In a remark, Moguluwa thanked the people of Nawfia for finding him worthy of the calling and promised to work with the people and government to ensure the community progressed.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Paulinus Ezeokafor, Saturday, feted over three hundred less privileged members of the society with some food items.

The beneficiries who came from across religious and ethnic drives, received bags of rice, tubers of yam, some onions, monetary cash, among other food items.

Distributing the items at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Awka, Bishop Ezeokafor, explained that the Easter package were to enable the downtrodden enjoy the celebration as well.

According to him, Easter is the greatest celebration in the Christendom, because it was a season to reflect over the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“We are giving back to the society out of what we received from the spirited individuals. We want the less privileged to feel impulse of the season. We want them to enjoy the Easter celebration like others.

"This is our annual ritual and we shall continue as long as we keep receiving from others. We do it every first Thursday of the month. But this one is specially organised every Easter season. Last year, we did same at the Christmas due to the impact of Coronavirus.

" Easter is season of love. It is when we remember how our Lord Jesus Christ came to the world, suffered, died for our sake and resurrected. We should reflect over our own live and ensure that after our suffering on earth, we shall enjoy the eternity. So, I charge all to work for our salvation," he added.

In an interview, one of the beneficiaries, Mrs Bridget Nwachukwu, who hails from Abia State, thanked the prelate for the gifts assuring that would live their lives for Christ.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

As Christians all over the world celebrate Easter, the Catholic bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has admonished Nigerians to love one another, stressing that it was what God demonstrated to mankind by offering his son Jesus to be born and crucified for our salvation.

Ezeokafor, in an Easter message he delivered at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka, said that Easter is the greatest Christian celebration, as it called for sober reflection and preparation for life after death.

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to deemphasize the quest for materialism and inordinate ambition to make it by all means, which according to him often time, expose people to evil and fake prophets.

“Esther is the greatest celebration to Christians. It is when we should reflect on how God gifted His son to mankind; to come and die for our redemption. It is greatest time to show love. He came, suffered and died for our salvation. Christ foresaw what he was to pass through yet he persevered.

“ But today, some don’t want to suffer. They are being brainwashed not to believe that they should suffer once they are Christians. It is not true. We must suffer if we must achieve or gain something good in life. Christ carried the cross for us and allowed Himself to be killed beside robbers. We should rather be praying for God not to give us the cross we cannot carry. We should forgo material gains to those things that can make us see heaven,” Ezeokafor stated.

On COVID-19, the Bishop praised God for sparing Africans from it devastating impacts as earlier expected , even as he enjoined Nigerians to embrace COVID-19 vaccination.

‘'Humans, as images of god have dual personality, the physical which is temporary and spiritual which is eternal and there is need for us take more care of ourselves. As we celebrate, let us call to mind the situation in our country and make conscious effort to make it better.

“It is for the grace of God that we were not wiped out by COVID-19 because considering the death toll in Europe and America, it was expected that when it comes here, we will all be dead. Thank God for sparing us, now they are talking about vaccine, I encourage everyone to take the vaccine because they are good antidotes to health issues. Government can help address vaccine hesitancy by being more sincere with the people so that can be trusted the more,” he added.

On the security challenges and deaths in Nigeria, the prelate called for decentralisation of the police to enable states and regions have greater influence on the protection of life and property of the people, arguing that the current structure had failed.

He further condemned attacks on communities and security agencies across the country by unknown gunmen, urging the government intervention.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Anambra State chapter, has appealed to governor Willie Obiano to pay up the eleven months arrears of pension owed the state retired primary school teachers for 2002 and 2003.

The State Chairman of NUP, Dr Anthony Ugozor, made the appeal in an interview after the union’s monthly meeting in Awka, lamenting that some of the beneficial pensioners have died without receiving the arrears, even as those alive need it for various reasons.

“It was over 20 months arrears. Former governor Peter Obi paid 16 months remaining 11 months. He gave approval for them to be paid. But it was not done before end of his tenure. We have been appealing for Governor Obiano to pay them off. This is for 2002 and 2003 set of primary school pensioners. Unfortunately, some of them have died waiting for the arrears. Those alive are still begging for it,” he maintained.

He also implored the governor to find ways of extending the pensioners revalidation exercise, which he said the state government would kick off online (Internet) from March 29 to April 12 2021 with a view to authenticating the actual pensioners for easy payment of pensions.

“There is need for extension. We have actually distributed the link to our members through branches so that our members can do the revalidation themselves at their convenience. But you know there are some of us living abroad and some incapacitated. So, they need more time. They have to extend the exercise for some weeks to carry all around,” he noted.

On capacity building, Ugozor explained that the union had articulated a one day seminar where members would be trained on rules and etiquette of modern unionism including constitutionality, contestation, consultation, obedient to union rule and dialogue for better engagement with the government and others.

Removed

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The Coordinator, NYSC Anambra State, Mr Kehinde Aremu has charged corps members of the 2021 Batch 'A'( Stream 1) in the State to put to practice what they have been taught in the course of the orientation course as they move to the next phase of their service year.

The charge was given during the debriefing of corps members, ahead of the closing of the orientation course which began about three weeks ago.

He said that the foundation of success has already been laid at the camp and it is left for the corps members to build on it so as to succeed in the other cardinal programmes of the Scheme


Aremu further spoke on posting saying it was done in collaboration with Corps Employers in terms of areas of need and that it would be impossible for them not to be accepted. He warned them against inducing rejection.

He charged them to be humble, respectful and diligent in carrying out their primary assignments, and other programmes of the scheme.

He then introduced to the corps members officers, especially those they would be working with daily during their service year.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The Catholic bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor, has urged Anambra residents to get vaccinated in ongoing coronavirus vaccination.


Ezeokafor, who stated this at St. Andrew's Parish, Adazi Nnukwu, in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State while delivering a homily to mark this year's Chrism Mass/Cathedraticum Celebration, stated that the COVID-19 vaccines has no side effect.


According to him, although there were elements of insincerity on the side of the government, people should ignore the aspect and focus on that which, he said, would better their living and save them from contracting the disease.

Bishop Ezeokafor who said that COVID-19 was still very much around and deadly, admonished Ndi Anambra to keep to COVID-19 protocols by maintaining social distancing, washing their hands regularly and also wearing of Facemasks at all times.

Ezeokafor, while speaking on the essence of the Chrism Mass cum Cathedraticum Celebration, charged Christians to always support their priests spiritually, physically and materially, because followers of Christ, should understand that priests were Christ's representatives on earth and deserved to be encouraged and protected.

He admonished priests to endeavour to practice what they preached, noting that their primary assignment was to propagate the Gospel of Jesus Christ as they are Christ's representatives on earth.

Ezeokafor also urged the Catholic faithful to be more intimate with the things of God and as well pay less attention to worldly things.

Highlights was the Bishop supervision of the renewal of ordination vow by priests in the Diocese..

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

The Anambra State Coordinator, National Youth Social Corps (NYSC), Mr Kehinde Aremu has expressed confidence on abilities of the 2021 Batch 'A' Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development Corps Trainees to excel in their chosen vocations.

Aremu, who made the declaration at the Exhibition/Closing ceremony of SAED in-camp training held at the Multi-purpose Hall of the Anambra Permanent Orientation Camp Umuawulu/Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area, hinted that the programme had empowered them to be job creators.

According to him, the performance of the corps members at the Exhibition of the skills learnt in less than a week was commendable because "despite the perceived lowness of Nigeria economy, as an entrepreneur you can make it and you will make it, only if you build on the foundation NYSC has laid for you".

“ They will leave the service as entrepreneurs and job creators not job seekers. I am happy about that. And I wish you all well in all earndavours” he added.

Earlier some of the trainees commended the NYSC for the training bevause according to him, they acquired several skills they could not let go.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

Awka



Nigerians from across religious drives have been urged to explore the medicinal values of plants and other herbal drugs to see ways of applying them for healing purposes.



A lecturer from the Trinity Theological College, Umuahia, Abia State, Rev. Dr. Barnabas Obiorah Idoko gave the advice when he led over a hundred students of the institution on a field trip to the Centre for Psychic and Healing Administration (CPHA), Awka, Anambra state.



Idoko, who said he had identified CPHA during his visit to Awka last year, stressed that there were nothing evil in being herbalist or using herbs for treatments due to medicinal values of African plants, and urged Christians gifted in the field to utilise their expertise to the Glory of God.



“We are on field trip to CPHA. The field trip is one of the ways we are exposing those to be ordained in the church ministry to some of those things we do in Africa. Ilonzo is a renowned figure who has demonstrated an expertise in herbal medicine. And given to her wealth of experience, I thought it wise to bring my students here to explore the positive things in African culture and use of herbal medicine.



“Some Christians misconstrue the effects of using the herbal medicine; thinking it is fetish. But we have come and we have seen that there is nothing fetish in it. As a matter of fact, Christian gifted in herbal medicine can explore it in curing self and others. We have been going on field trips at various institutions at Abia state. It was during my trip to Awka last year I discovered here and decided tp explore it”, he added.



He vowed to make CPHA a permanent institution for their field trips because “We have learnt the health benefits of most African plants. We also learnt from her experiences and expertise. We enjoyed the hospitality. Therefore, I will make here a permanent place of our field trip. In as much I am the one taking the course, I have found more reasons to bring our students here learn and help in spreading the good news when ordained. I enjoin other denominations and religious bodies to adopt this kind of field trip to expose them to reality of things in Africa. It is not all African culture and tradition is evil.”

The theological institution owned by the Anglican Diocese of Umuahia runs Degree programmes in affiliation with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka



Also speaking, the Chief Whip of the institution, Mr Chibueze Kingsley Ikechukwu, who said he is from Enugu State but currently carrying out his religious service at Nnewi, said he was previously made to understand that CPHA is operating under some spiritual or evil powers but the visits has changed all that.



“She took us on three and half hours lecture standing. We have learnt from all she passed through at the course of her spiritual journey. In all these she kept giving glory to God, Almighty. We have learnt from it to be strong in our calling. We have learnt to guide ourselves. We have learnt to communicate or pass on every good knowledge and our experience to others. We are going to teach them to others. This journey has dispelled all the lies people are peddling against her. We have discovered that all the artifacts in her centre were constructed and kept because she is an artist. We have learnt some medicinal values of plants. I can tell you that we are going to repeat this journey individually with our church members, families and friends,” he added.



Earlier the founder, Centre for Psychic and Healing Administration (CPHA), Chief Dr Mrs Flora Nkemakonam Ilonzo, lectured the students on why to make African fruits and vegetables their favourite, even as she provided procedures through which they could be utilised in preventing or healing all kinds of diseases and ailments including cancer, coronavirus, pile, psychiatric issues and others.



Ilonzo, who led the seminarians into her family life, persecutions and benefits of her journey to actualise her callings to help humanity with herbal, including how her grandparents gifted the Anglicans and the Catholic where they sited their first Churches and homes at Onistha , said that she inherited the gift from her parents and grandparents that according to her, applied herbal in solving in all humans problems.



She also recalled how God used her liberate women from the deadly Odo deities at Nsukka, brought the Catholic Pontiff (the Pope) and the Archbishop of Canterbury to Nigeria, saved old Anambra state and others, reiterating that CPHA's moto is resolving the frictions between man and nature, and charged the students to endeavour to communicate to others what they have learnt from her centre for emancipation of Africans.

Mr Chinedu Thorpe (formerly known as Chinedu Okwelogu) is a household name in the scrabble world. Sidespin, as he’s fondly called in the world of Table Tennis and Scrabble, has been a scrabble player, trainer, coach and promoter. In this interview with OKECHUKWU ONUEGBU, he reels out his plans to uplift scrabble from family to state, national and international levels.

Who is Thorpe

My name is Chinedu Thorpe. My surname was formerly Okwelogu, while my nickname is Sidespin. I am from Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state. Currently, I am an Assistant Director at the National Orientation Agency (NOA). I read English and Literary Studies at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

I became a Table Tennis player in 1974. Ten years later (in 1983), I decided to focus on Scrabble as a Player. But table tennis remains my number one love sports to date. If I have the money, I will sponsor table tennis to any level.

I joined the national scrabble body by virtue of playing with nationally rated players in 1987 at Enugu. I played at the national tournament first in 1991, and became the national champion in 1994 when I won the national open for Kano in October. In 2001 and 2002, I became Nigeria number one and Nigerian highest ranked scrabble player in the world. I was the world number 8 in 2001 and number 10 in 2002.

I have won a range of tournaments. I am a multiple champion by any definition of the terms, Nationally or Internationally. I won my first world international event in 2012. I became Kano state coach in 2003. My concern now is training of players, organising competitions, playing, etc.

How is scrabble fairing in Nigeria?

Scrabble is the number one sports that has given Nigeria number one ranking in the world. Unfortunately, many are not aware of that. The ranking is based on cumulative of all performances. Ironically, it is very neglected in the country.

What is the place of scrabble in the South East geopolitical one and Anambra state, specifically?

To start with, the problem we have in the south east is non-availability of high level players. We have them but they based outside the south east. The first Igbo man to win scrabble national champion was Chijioke Uzoh from Imo state in 1987. After that, he moved to US and remains there. The second was Azubuike Ogbogu in 1989. He is from Asaba Delta state (Technically not in South east). He was based in Benin, playing for Edo and Delta states.
The third Igbo man was Ifeanyi Onyeonwu, from Ogbunike, Anambra state. He won in 1990. And was the first scrabble player to win the African championship in 1994. He was also Nigerian number one for a long time. He based in Benin and plays with Auzbuike. They were called the Benin Maffians.
I was the fourth National Champions (and second from Anambra state). I won in 1994 while playing for Kano state.
So, there were no national champion based in South East to ginger people. But people were playing all over the country. There are scrabble clubs all over the country attached to the national team. Those existing in the South East were at Aba (Abia state), Enugu (Enugu state) and Alvan Ikoku (Owerri State). It was when I came down from north to Anambra state (on transfer) in 2012, I started a fresh move to reposition scrabble in the state.
But before then in 2009, the then Secretary of Scrabble in Anambra state, Nestor Ikwueze contacted me to train the state players for 2009 National Sports festival in Kaduna. It was about two weeks to the national sports festival at Kaduna. And I was training the Kano players too. I couldn’t go because I was also expecting arrival of scrabble equipment which I was to receive personally at Aminu Kano international Airport. I recommended two of my friends and experts from Delta State to the state. Delta is the number one scrabble playing state in Nigeria. They trained the Anambra players and they joined us at the event.
Anambra state did not win medal. But one of the players, Master Chuka Amafor was adjudged the best or most promising scrabble player of the year. The national body mandated me to train him so that he would play at the world Scrabble champions at Australia.
I wrote to the Anambra state government, requesting sponsorship of Amafor because his trip was meant to be sponsored by the state. However, that letter was not replied to date. It was one Yoruba speaking state that later sent in someone, Seun Oyeleke for Amafor’s replacement. Seun trained with us at the camp, and at the world scrabble competition, he came sixth in the whole world. That was how Anambra missed that opportunity. Amafor lost interest on scrabble since then…
I am back to reposition scrabble in the state. I am ever ready and most positioned especially now the national had lifted my suspension. The suspension began on 2011 over disagreement I had with some of their officers. It was lifted in 2019. So, I and my teams are going to Edo 2020 (2021) National Sports Festival to make Anambra state and Nigeria proud.

Have you made any attempt to get the incumbent administration in Anambra state to sponsor any scrabble activity?

Yes! I must apologise to governor Willie Obiano, his wife—Ebelechukwu Obiano, and the Commissioner for Basic Education (formerly Commissioner for Education), Prof. Azuka Omenugha. I must appologise to the entire Anambra. In 2015, I approached the state government for sponsorship of secondary school scrabble tournament. This is a project of about six million naira. The project was approved even when the governor did not know me. However, a former commissioner for youth and sports and few others insisted that I should not be allowed to handle the project. They said they have other capable hands in the ministry to handle it. I was called unprintable names… So, I left them and the project. It was not executed. I don't know what happened to the fund to date because I was not interested on the money. When I realised my mistakes, I quickly appologised to the governor, his wife and the commissioner. I have written another proposal to them. I have also introduced Mr Chuks Ndigwe and Mr Odionye to them who I am sure can handle the project perfectly even I am not involved. But nothing will make me to abandon the project.

Why is scrabble seemed neglected in Nigeria?
People have not seen the connecting point. For any activity to be valuable in the present world, it has to be motivating. It must have relevant in putting food on the table of whoever is involve in it. The project needs money to be executed perfectly.
There is something I called ‘the tournament scrabble industry.’ It is a sequence of activities in which people who are involved in the scrabble would be adequately rewarded. In this industry, I would highlight five different individuals or key players. They are the Scrabble player, scrabble coach or teacher, scrabble organiser, middleman and sponsor.

Under this your plan, how could scrabble address crimes and other societal challenges?

I have device several types of scrabble tournament from family level to house to house (neighbour), schools, town, LGA, state and national levels. All that is required is sponsorship through a middle man. Middle man is expected to bring sponsors and collect commission. He did not need to know what scrabble is all about. The sponsor is not obliged to dish out all the money requested. He is fee to provide what he can afford. The most important thing is to put down something people can fight (play) for. If for example, a sponsor provides for a year scrabble event in Awka metropolis. We can decide to make it a monthly event. If for instance N10million is required and the sponsor brings out N2million, we can still use it to achieve maximum result. Once the tournament is announced, people would begin to study harder to win the prize. This will create employments at all levels. For the one I designed for schools, everyone must win prizes. The school has prize, so also are the teachers, players and so on.
When you look at the crimes been committed in the society, you will find out that it is because most of those involved are out of job, unsatisfactory employed, under the influence of drugs or association with wrong kinds of persons. Fighting it should not be reacting to crime when it happens. Scrabble should be used to engage the minds of people.

Meaning scrabble can equally be used in addressing poor reading cultures?
Scrabble is the number sports that can significantly address the poor reading culture and other academics challenges in Nigeria. It compels practitioners to go back to schools. It motivates and inspires players to revisit their books, to cultivate a studying habit. If you want to do good in scrabble, you must study hard to increase vocabulary. It is 70% mathematics and 30% linguistics. Let us assume money is at stake, you must study hard to win the prize. There are specified books and dictionaries you are to study. The vehicle is wording, while the underlined point is mathematical. That is why it is said to be more mathematics than English. If you’re sharp, you will become sharper. If you’re dullard, you will become sharp.

Are there countries that have used scrabble to address societal challenges like crimes you know?
Pakistan used it to fight terrorism by occupying the minds of children, thereby preventing them from being recruited for crimes. Malaysia used it to produce intellectual wizards and so on. There are other people and countries using it to address one issue or another.

Is there particular age bracket meant to play scrabble?
The scrabble is for people of all ages. But the ideal age for one to begin playing scrabble is 8 years old because that is when one is assumed to have developed their cognitive reasoning. Scrabble enhances mental development, prevents development of dementia, a disease of old age. And you can play it up to 80-year-old or more.

Don’t you think that high cost of scrabble equipment is why it receives poor attention?

The equipment elements used to be a challenge. But it is no longer a challenge. All the materials are now available on Google App and others. All you need is an Android phone. You can download the dictionary, clock, and others. There is also an online board. It is during the tournament you will be required to purchase a board. The standard practise is for one to use own equipment during tournament. The prices for standard board may range from N50,000 to N200,000. But anybody that is serious can buy that of paper board. There are others within N15,000 or N18,000. The equipment is very affordable.

Do you subscribe to the notion that scrabble should be made a curricular subject?
Yes. It could be made a curricular subject. It is workable. But I would advice that students should not be compelled to study or play it. Schools should not also be compelled to register it. It should be optional. What should be done is that schools and students that engage on it should be adequately rewarded.

By Okey C

Valentine Ozigbo, a leading aspirant in the 2021 Anambra governorship election, has taken a notable step towards Agu Awka after purchasing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expression and nomination of interest forms.

Ozigbo, in the company of several members of his campaign team and numerous supporters stormed the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5 Abuja on Monday, March 22, 2021 to pick the forms to contest for the party’s primaries.

In his remarks, the respected business leader expressed his commitment to the pursuit of excellence in all his endeavours.

“I feel like the election is already here. Looking at the people here with me today and the support they have shown since I expressed interest to join this race, I am confident that we are on the right path,” an enthusiastic Ozigbo remarked.

“I am grateful to God for keeping us alive to see this remarkable day.

"I want to express my gratitude to my fellow party members, my ever hardworking team members, and most especially, Ndi Anambra for standing by me from the very beginning.

"Picking the form is one of the steps in our pursuit of excellence, the biggest is still ahead and for that, I will continue to solicit for your support and prayers," Ozigbo declared.

The respected business leader, while speaking to journalists after picking his forms assured that he would run a government wholly committed to delivering excellent governance to the people of Anambra.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead. It’s a new dawn for Anambra State. I’m filled with a renewed hope and excitement," Ozigbo told members of the PDP press corp.

“We are bringing fresh ideas that put the core needs of the people on the front burner while creating policies the will benefit generations to come.

"It is time we stop playing small by talking about good governance, I am in this race to provide excellence in governance to my people," he declared.

Ozigbo was accompanied to the occasion by his wife, Mrs Ojiugo Ozigbo and several directors of his campaign team, including Honourable Tim Egboka, a former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly; Hon. Barr. Valentine Ayika, a former member of both the Anambra State House of Assembly and the Federal House of Representatives; Rt. Hon. Eucharia Azodo, a former Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly; and a two-time member of the Federal House of Representatives.

Others are Chief Tony Offiah, a prominent stakeholder in Anambra PDP; Chief Ejike Oguebego, a former Chairman of the PDP in Anambra State; Honourable Ejike Nwene; Lady Juliet Anaeme; Dr. Chudi Akude.

Members of the civil society community represented by Comrade Kennedy Iyare. Nigerians in the Diaspora were represented by Mazi Godson Azu.

A number of House of Assembly Candidates that represented PDP in the last elections accompanied Valentine, including Hon Emeka Nwokedi, Hon Charles Okoye, Hon Divine Onyekachi, Hon Prestige Okafor, Hon Barr Fred Nzeako and Hon Moses Anene.

Valentine Ozigbo is the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, a diversified conglomerate with interests in hospitality, power, oil and gas, and agribusiness.

He is the Chairman of Feet ‘N’ Tricks International, the largest promoters of freestyle football in Africa, and organizers of the Nigerian Freestyle Football Championship and the African Freestyle Football Championship.

One of a few global kaizen champions, he is the founder of the Valentine Chineto Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation, one of Nigeria’s leading charity organizations, focusing on youth, women empowerment, business and leadership mentoring, and talent development.

By Okey Chris

A renowned Nigerian industrialist, Chief Alex Chika Okafor has bemoaned the security situation in Anambra State.

Chief Okafor, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Chikason Group of Companies, stated this when the organizing Committee for the Anambra Achievers Legacy Award, ANALEG, called on him, Saturday March 20, 2021.

The Committee which was led by Rev. Dr. John Ndubuisi, Chairman All Christians Businessmen’s Fellowship and immediate past Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Anambra State, was in his office at Nnewi, to convey his nomination as patron of ANALEG, and one of the recipients of this year’s Akululu Uno Amaka Award by the organization.

The industrialist, who said he welcomed the nomination, provided the intentions behind the exercise was genuine, regretted the worrisome state of insecurity and targeted attacks on security personnel and their formations in the state in recent times.

He said the development posed a serious threat to economic development and sustenance of achievements of the Obiano administration in the security sector.

The foremost industrialist argued that Anambra State was the heartland of the South East hence any threat to its economy was a threat to the economic development of the South East Zone.

Chief Okafor said that insecurity in the state ‘may exacerbate youth unemployment and undermine the drive for investment and urged security agencies to increase their intelligence in order to arrest the apparent resurgence of criminal activities in the state.

On the forthcoming Anambra governorship election, Chief Okafor warned against thuggery and religious politics which he said will not help the emergence of the best person for the position and advised the state electorate to “assess the candidates by their individual capabilities and take away religious politics for the state”.

He noted that the “best candidates had not always won elections” and called for prayers urging all hands to be on deck to enthrone a credible person as the next governor of the State.

The business mogul urged the state elders not to be partisan and advised the youth to resist being used to perpetrate electoral fraud during the forthcoming election.

Earlier, Alpha Justice, spokesman of Anambra Achievers Legacy Award Committee said that ANALEG was an offshoot of the Igbo leaders of thought General Assembly, and was registered for recognition of excellence in public life, with Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, former Governor of Anambra State as National leader and Justice Anthony Igu, former Justice of the Supreme Court as National patron.

He disclosed that Chief Okafor’s nomination was in “recognition of his pedigree as an eminent individual of noble cause, who is exceptionally reliable and dependable, a great philanthropist and employer of labour”.

“You have distinguished yourself in your field and discipline as a critical thinker on nation building. We applaud your ingenuity, good sense of patriotism and benevolence which have greatly endeared you to many, and as an opinion leader, a think home philosopher, who has demonstrated the Akululu Uno Amaka matra in practical terms” Alpha said.

The body opined that as their patron and Awardee, Chief Okafor was expected to positively impact on the lives of the people and sacrifice time, talent and resources for the general development of Anambra state in particular and humanity in general.

Alpha Justice also disclosed that the Anambra Achievers Legacy Award was being organized as part of activities by the ANALEG to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the creation of Anambra State adding that 30 exceptional indigenous achievers will be honoured at the event.

Also speaking, Sir Emmanuel Ifesinachi, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State, thanked Chief Okafor for his industry and resourcefulness and solicited his support towards the realization of the objectives of ANALEG.

The ANALEG delegation included Bishop Dr. Michael Chukwudum, Chairman, indigenous Pentecostal Members Association, Rev. Dr. John Ndubuisi, immediate past Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria and Emma Udeagha, Secretary NUJ among others.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said he would flag off the Second edition of Onitsha City Marathon, (OCM), competition, holding on September 25, 2021.

According to a statement signed by Mr Philip Barepo, spokesman of the local organising committee (LOC), Onitsha City Marathon, Professor Obasanjo disclosed this when the committee led by Professor Olusegun Sogbesun of Onitsha Business School, paid a visit to his residence at Abeokuta, Ogun state.

“Obasanjo who promised to flag off the event in Onitsha, Anambra State, later in the year, noted that the act of exercise is good for the body and soul, which has been part of his own daily routine. The amiable Elder Statesman, who accepted to be the Grand Patron of Onitsha City Marathon, cited his concern and support for group and citizens who take special interest in the physical fitness of the citizenry, particularly the youths.

“The Onitsha City Marathon, OCM, remains an initiative of the Onitsha Business School, developed to discover and harness the abundant sporting talents of the teeming youths of Onitsha metropolis and environs. It is also aimed at revolutionizing sports as a Socio-Economic Development tool. The Onitsha City Marathon, debuted on October 5th, 2019, as the first international marathon, East of the Niger, which attracted over 25 international marathon runners and around 700 Nigerians. It could not hold in 2020, due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

“ Professor Olusegun Sogbesun hinted that the 2021 edition will come with a lot of goodies, making it far better than the initial edition, with some board games like Scrabble, Chess, Ayo and Checkers for schools, as well as a Criterium (Bicycle Race). We are also likely to have a 10-kilometre race and the VIP race to spice up the week", he maintained.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said he would flag off the Second edition of Onitsha City Marathon, (OCM), competition, holding on September 25, 2021.

According to a statement signed by Mr Philip Barepo, spokesman of the local organising committee (LOC), Onitsha City Marathon, Professor Obasanjo disclosed this when the committee led by Professor Olusegun Sogbesun of Onitsha Business School, paid a visit to his residence at Abeokuta, Ogun state.

“Obasanjo who promised to flag off the event in Onitsha, Anambra State, later in the year, noted that the act of exercise is good for the body and soul, which has been part of his own daily routine. The amiable Elder Statesman, who accepted to be the Grand Patron of Onitsha City Marathon, cited his concern and support for group and citizens who take special interest in the physical fitness of the citizenry, particularly the youths.

“The Onitsha City Marathon, OCM, remains an initiative of the Onitsha Business School, developed to discover and harness the abundant sporting talents of the teeming youths of Onitsha metropolis and environs. It is also aimed at revolutionizing sports as a Socio-Economic Development tool. The Onitsha City Marathon, debuted on October 5th, 2019, as the first international marathon, East of the Niger, which attracted over 25 international marathon runners and around 700 Nigerians. It could not hold in 2020, due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

“ Professor Olusegun Sogbesun hinted that the 2021 edition will come with a lot of goodies, making it far better than the initial edition, with some board games like Scrabble, Chess, Ayo and Checkers for schools, as well as a Criterium (Bicycle Race). We are also likely to have a 10-kilometre race and the VIP race to spice up the week", he maintained.

I will turn Anambra State into a Paradise, Ozigbo assures Lagos residents

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

A People’s Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant, Mr Ventine Ozigbo, has assured the people of Anambra State residing at Lagos state that his administration would the state into a ‘paradise’ if triumph at the November 6 poll.

Ozigbo, who stated this on Saturday during an interactive session with prominent Anambra indigenes, explained that the state “can be a paradise if we have the right people leading our state. We have compressed my Ka Anambra Chawapu agenda into this comprehensive document.”

The immediate Past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, presented a-36 pages campaign manifesto which according to him, "covers our plan for youth and women. It covers our plan to fix our healthcare system, our schools, revive our economy, and make Anambra the continent's pride.

“It covers our strategy to provide security to our people, to create an enabling environment for our businesses to thrive. It covers our agenda to revolutionise statecraft in our state. We have put together an ambitious plan, and we called it Project Chawapu. It covers every aspect of governance, and if given a chance, we will surpass our promises to Ndi Anambra.”

He said he decided to run for governor because he was uncomfortable with the status quo given the abundance of human capital, talent, and resources that Anambra has “we are still talking about providing basic infrastructure and social services for our people. These should have been forgotten problems by now. We are supposed to be an exemplary state in terms of good governance and leadership. I am in the race for governorship to change the story of Anambra for good.”

“When I decided to go on this quest to serve, I made a promise to the Almighty God that if he favoured me with victory, I would run an all-inclusive government which thinks of the people all the time, listened to the people all the time, and serves the people all the time. This is just another step in the journey of engaging the people to make sure that the issues that matter to Ndi Anambra are the front-burner issues for my administration," he said.

According to him, the decision to host the town hall events across the country was to deliberately widen the scope of his consultations and carry along all Ndi Anambra, irrespective of state or city of residence, in his quest to govern.

The 2nd leg of the Lagos event holds at Amuwo-Odofin in Lagos on Sunday March 21, 2021. Similar town hall meetings have been slated for Monday and Wednesday in Abuja on March 22 and in Enugu on March 24, respectively.


Some of the dignitaries in attendance including Mr Tobe Okigbo, Chief Chike Chikelu and Chief Tony Iju reposed confidence on Ozigbo, who according to them have the capacity and good manifesto to deliver Anambra state.

Other notable sons and daughters of Anambra in attendance were Chief Okey Ezeibe (Omelora), Anselm Orazulike, who was a top shot at FSB International Plc (now Fidelity Bank Plc); Ikem Ume-Ezeoke, the chair of the event's planning committee; Chief Jerry Nwanoneze (Onowu Lilu); Chief Benji Uba (Ozonma); Chief Mike Umeh (Udemba Amichi); Chief Ven Onwughalu; Chief Charles Onyido; Chief Ethel Uzoeto (Ohamadike Azia); and many others.

Directors of his campaign organisation who accompanied Ozigbo included Rt Hon Eucharia Azodo (first woman Speaker in Nigeria), Chief Tony Offiah (Akajiugo Uga), Ejike Oguebego (former State Chairman) and Dr Ejike Nwene.

Other members of the planning committee include Chief Jude Ochili (Ikemba Ojoto), Mrs Ogechi Okafor, Mrs Beatrice Eneh, Mrs Lois Nwana, Adaobi Nwakuche, Elonna Aguh, Commanda Chukwuneke, Dr Ifeoma Atoh, Chuks Ozigbo, Mr Clem Nwana, and Aziza Uko, who is Director of Media and Communications of the VCO Organisation.

Th Director, NYSC South East Area Office, Alhaji Ahmed Wada Ikaka MNIM has advised corps members to eschew ethnic and geographic sentiments but rather adopt Nationalistic attitude.

The advise came during his visit to Anambra Orientation Camp, Umuawulu/Mbaukwu as part of his tour of NYSC camps under his jurisdiction today.

Ikaka said that the service year is meant to enable them relate well with people outside their ethnic and geographic zones which would give them the necessary exposure that would make them great leaders and as such, they should not seek relocation unnecessarily

He further admonished them to give theSAED training priority it deserves as it will help them become self employed.He also told them to take their personal security seriously.

He appreciated the corps members and camp officials for the warm welcome and for the uniqueness of the camp.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

A research report has uncovered that women in Anambra state are prohibited from eating gizzards including cooking or serving food to their male counterparts while menstruating.

The study, entitled Assessing the Rights of Women and Girls in Anambra State, also disclosed that most communities in the state forbade married women from practicing any religion or reporting family issues to the police station without the consent of their husbands or the husbands' family (if demised).

This was presented by Barr Uju Okeke
at “a-one day consultative meeting with traditional gate keepers and duty bearers in Anambra state on ‘ensuring the elimination of Violence Against Women (VAWG) and the Operationalization of the State of Emergency on SGBV declared by the Nigerian Governors Forum” organised in Awka by the Women Aid Council (WACOL) with sponsorship from Ford Foundation.

Okeke, who said the research was conducted across nine communities in nine Local Government Areas within the three senatorial zones of the state between December 1 to 20, 2020, explained that the research participants administered with questionnaires (interviewed) were people who had experienced or were part of the norms and practices.

She added that the research also uncovered other norms and practices perpetuating sex stereotypes and gender inequalities in Anambra state, while the communities visited were Ukpo in Dunukofia LGA, Nawfia (Njikoka LGA), Nnobi (Idemili South, Nise (Awka South LGA) and Onitsha in Onitsha North. Others were Nteje in Oyi LGA, Umumbo (Ayamelum), Nnewi in Nnewi North and Owerre-Ezukala in Orumba South LGA.

In another presentation, How VAWG results to underdevelopment in our local communities, Prof. Ogugua Ikpeze of the Faculty of Law, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, implored the Igbo nation to shun all cultural practices undermining the rights of women in the society, due to their overall negative impact.

Ikpeze, while listing some causes of violence against women to include poverty, ignorance, illiteracy, get Rich Syndrome, patriarchy, greedy, environment and customary Practices, charged men to have a rethink or face prosecution in line with the extant laws of the state like Widowhood and Widowerhood Prohibition Law (2005), Child Rights Law (2004), Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law (2017), and Administration of Criminal Justice (ACJ) law (2010).

One of the participants and Traditional Ruler of Akwaeze, Anaocha LGA, HRH Igwe Christopher Okpala, commended WACOL for the programme, assuring that the traditional institutions would never relent in promoting women participation and advancement.

Earlier, the founder of WACOL, Prof. Joy Ezeilo, represented by Ms Ijoma Uzoeshi, programme Manager, WACOL, hinted that the project was aimed at transforming traditional institutions, advance women’s rights campaign to eliminate discrimination and violence against women and girls, and improve access to justice by enhancing women’s capacity to engage traditional and cultural leaders.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka

As the Anambra State November 6 governorship poll draws closer, some stakeholders have urged the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) delegates to ensure emergence of Mr Godwin Ezeemo as the gubernatorial candidate of the party.

According to them, Ezeemo, having invested into all sectors in the state, including agriculture and publishing, was the only candidate with a capacity to dislodge the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) from the state government house.

Speaking at a reception party organised to welcome Ezeemo at Awka, Chief Christopher Udoye, the party chieftain, adviced the delegates not to allow moneybags to hijack their governorship primary so that the will of the people would prevail.

Contributing, Hon. Ibuchim Ezekwelu and Chief Dan Igbokwubili, said the aspirant apart from playing the politics according to the rule, has over a thousand staff in all his industries in the state alone, aside relating well with all.

In address, the celebrant, Mr Godwin Ezeemo said his priority was to make Anambra the number one state in all ramifications of development.

"I have experienced every sector of life and living and I am more than certain that I am at that level when I must bring home the sort of development Anambra deserve. I am particularly concerned with what I can do in Anambra not on the basics of zoning or any other factors.

" My experience over the years in contesting for this same position serves as a high cultivation of understanding on what Anambrarians actually want from the state governor. The number of persons coming out for Governorship does not imply on any negative tone other than a prove of the caliber of high profile personalities the state pride on," he added.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The Anambra State command’s Department State Security(DSS) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Thursday, renewed partnership for optimal services in the state.

The Director of DSS, Mr Michael Obaje, who disclosed this while welcoming the NYSC state Coordinator in his office, described it as strategic partnership targeted at national building.

He also pledged to fortify security around NYSC Corps locations across the state as well as maintaining the existing cordial relations between the two agencies.

" NYSC is one of our strategic partners, we have a very close relationship with NYSC. There is no time we don't need NYSC, and there is no time they don't need us. We will continue to be of assistance to you. and we thank you also for responding to our request timely,” he noted.

Earlier, the State NYSC Coordinator, Mr Kehinde Aremu told the Director that he and his team were in his office to welcome him to the state and familiarize with him.

Kehinde, who further maintained that he also appreciated the good work the Agency has been doing, as well as the enormous security support the scheme has been receiving from the DSS.

According to Aremu, the Security awareness lecture which the DSS offer to Corps members during the orientation camp often go a long way in inculcating in them adequate security consciousness that extends beyond their service year.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), comprising different clusters of PWDs, Wednesday, extolled the Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano over his various achievements in the past seven years

Obiano, who on March 17, 2014 succeeded Mr Peter Obi of the then All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), had in the past seven of shepherding the state impacted the lives of PWDs with legislation, empowerment, training, employment into the state civil service and others.

Celebrating the governor in a press statement signed by the state Chairman, Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, also appealed to Obiano, to establish Disabling Rights Commission which is engine room for full implementation of Anambra Disability Law (2018).

The message read in full thus; “We, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State chapter, heartily celebrate our amiable governor, His Excellency, Chief Dr. Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano (Oguguo Ndi Olusi) as he marks his seventh year in office as the governor of Anambra State. It has been seven good years of selfless service and utmost dedication to the welfare of Ndi Anambra, especially persons with disabilities.

Your Excellency, your love for persons with disabilities in Anambra state is unparalleled. Thus, on 18th December, 2018, you gave a life-time Christmas gift to PWDs in the state with the signing of the Disability Rights Bill into law, thereby changing the issue of disability rights from a subject of charity to an object of right. This has ensured the safety of PWDs against all forms of discrimination, intimidation and marginalization. It has also ensured the socio-political inclusion of PWDs in the state

Also, you have not only given persons with disabilities in the state a voice in your Cabinet but a vote with the appointment of a special adviser on disability matters. Thus, you have ensured that issues concerning PWDs receives prompt Executive attention thereby fulfilling the provisions in Article 29 of CRPD , SDGs Goal 10 (indicator 10.2) and Section 52 of Anambra Disabilities Rights law 2018.

Similarly, you have demonstrated your concern for the economic welfare of PWDs with the appointment of over 200 qualified PWDs into the state civil service in 2017 and 2020 respectively as provided for in section 41(1) ASDRL 2018, Article 27 of CRPD and SDGs goal 8 (indicator 8.3). This has put smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries as they are now able to take care of their needs and those of their families.

Frankly speaking, Your Excellency, you have demonstrated in no small measures your belief that a society is known by the way it treats its weak ones. You have demonstrated your belief that, indeed, there is ability in every disability. The inclusion of persons with disabilities issues in your 2021 budget speech and increasing budget provision to take care of the needs of persons with disabilities was deliberate not for any political reason.Your recent approval for the set up of the Anambra state Disabilities Rights Law implementation Committee which will at interim before the establishment of the Disability Rights Commission as provided for in section 3 of the ASDRL 2018 will forever remain evergreen in our heart.

The office of the Governor on Disability on Matters you established in 2016 and political appointments given to persons with Disabilities has made Anambra state to be in the lead of other states of the federation in providing the best services to persons with Disabilities.What a caring Governor!.

We, therefore, seize this opportunity to extol your unalloyed support and magnanimity to persons with disabilities together with your wife- Chief Dr Ebelechukwu Obiano(Osodieme). Kudos for selecting Disability friendly individuals to work with you. Jide ka i ji, Oguguo Ndi Olusi! Your gigantic developmental strides are evident to all who have eyes to see, ears to hear and mouth to talk about. Ndi Anambra, persons with Disabilities in particular could not have prayed for a better governor.
Our major demand on this special day of the present adminstration is the establishment of Anambra Disabilities Rights Commission.This is to guarantee full implementation of the Anambra Disabilities rights Law 2018.


Long live, Oguguo Ndi Olusi!
Long live JONAPWD Anambra State Chapter!
Long live Anambra State!

Comr. Ugochukwu Okeke E. C
State Chairman

By Okechkwu Onuegbu

Eight football clubs would participate on the Anambra state maiden Super 8 football finals scheduled to kick off on March 29, 2021.

The clubs, Smith City FC, Awka; Pope John Paul FC, Okpuno; Rangels FC, Achina; GP World FC Nnewi; IFechikwuku FC, Omor; Mecon FC, Umunze; Konti FC Umunnachi and Golden Boys FC Onitsha, participated in the final draws of ‘My Anambra Football’ Super 8 tournament which was rounded off on Wednesday in Awka, the State capital.

Prince Oliver Ndigwe, a member of Anambra Football State Football Association (AnSFA) and chairman of the Super 8 Organising Committee told the Factcheckng that the draws graced by most stakeholders were successful.

According to Ndigwe, out of the eight teams, four teams would qualify for the semifinals and finals of the tournament, even as a seminar had been organised for the eight clubs that would participate in the final phase of the competition in order to adequately equip them for future challenges.

Ndigwe, who commended the sole Sponsor of the match, Aspire FC Adazi-Ani, noted that eight players were also unveiled after the draws, as part of the measures put in place to help strengthen the teams through transfers those who did well during the play-offs, of which 27 grassroots football clubs were drawn from the three senatorial zones in the state.

He added that “We gave opportunities to teams by going on transfers in order for them to be well fortified. Normally, the clubs were supposed to have 23 players but we gave them chance to have additional 3 to their sides.”

Earlier, Aspire FC through its brand manager, Madonna Chidimma Ezeasor maintaned that the tournament was a well-articulated measure to drive football, develop talents, build confidence in our youths.

Ezeasor added that the competition would be more advantagious to players aspiring to be professional as it would equip them for task ahead, even as cash prizes await teams including a Nationwide Division Two slot for the first-place winner.

By Okechukwu Onuegbu

The Traditional Prime Minister (Onowu) of Umuawulu, Awka South LGA, Dr Emmanuel Ezenwaji has assured the 2021 Batch 'A' Stream1 corps members in the state of the rich hospitality for which Anambra is known.


Ezenwaji, who gave the assurance during the lecture on Igbo culture and tradition at the camp multipurpose hall, hinted that the corps members would be treated same way as indigenes.


According to him, Anambra is blessed by God and is filled with milk and honey, even as their way of life, including their local cuisines, marriage, festivals and others were superbep.


He further advised them to learn the culture of Anambra and integrate into the their host communities if they are to experience a fruitful stay in the land.


Earlier, the traditional Prime Minister had performed the breaking of the kolanut, while explaining its significance to the excitement and enlightenment of corps members.