Anambra News

 Nothing beats the spirit of ndi Anambra. I remember during Governor Soludo's campaign days, he would always say, "ndi Anambra may be difficult to govern, but they are very easy to mobilize". It was this very thought that gave birth to the winning model of mass mobilization for development captured under that Public-Community-Private-Partnership (PCPP).  In strict adherence to this model, the current administration has, for the first time in recent history in a 'none election season' engaged ndi Anambra in diaspora at various levels of town hall engagement. Governor Soludo himself held two of such meetings physically in Lagos and Abuja, and virtually with other diasporians. The message has remained simple and paunchy, "come Let's build our homeland".  Few months after this concerted effort, ndi Anambra are already taking up the mandate of partnering with government in critical sectors of development. In this yuletide season alone, Governor Soludo has

 DECENCY AND SIMPLICITY IN BURIAL: THE SOLUDO REVOLUTION By Christian ABURIME  Life is a cyclical phenomenon, and death is part of its revolving reality.  The recent burial of Pa Simeon Nwankwo Soludo, (Akukananwa I), father of Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, marked a revolution and a pivotal change in burial ceremonies! Aside insisting on a simple, dignified ceremony in accordance with Anambra State’s burial law, Governor Soludo challenged societal norms that pressure bereaved families into lavish and wasteful displays of wealth in the name of ‘befitting burials’. In doing so, the governor set an example for leaders and citizens alike to reconsider what truly honours the dead and supports the living.   On that peaceful Saturday 23, December 2023, just before Christmas, a gathering of distinguished guests from across Nigeria came not for a spectacle, but to witness a humble departure. They had joined the Soludo family and the people of Isuofia to bid farewell

 GEAR CHANGED By Izuchukwu Adichie When one hears the phrase "Changing Gears," what immediately comes to mind? During my driving lessons, I was instructed on the fundamental principle of gear shifting. As the vehicle accelerates, there comes a juncture when the first gear can no longer keep up; this is usually indicated by flooring the gas pedal and increased engine noise. Once it reaches an audible crescendo, it is typically advisable to shift up to the next gear. Over the last 20 months, Soludo has consistently and intentionally worked towards establishing a strong foundation for his ambitious and audacious vision for ndi Anambra. However, he now finds himself compelled to change gears to move forward with building upon this foundation. This administration has set a truly remarkable period of 20 months, distinguished by historic milestones, unparalleled achievements, and an unwavering commitment to pioneering endeavors. The signing into law of the Anambra state's 2024 A

 "APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN ADVOCATES FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE, SAYS "ONLY A LIFE LIVED FOR OTHERS IS A LIFE WORTHWHILE." Akwaeze, Anambra -The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has affirmed that only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile and that service to others is the rent one pays for his room here on Earth. The APGA National Chairman, joined by his amiable wife Mrs. Amara Ezeokenwa, spoke at the commissioning of the donated male dormitory at Community High School, Akwaeze, Anocha LGA, by Chief Sir Ikenna K. Okafor, KSS (Ide Akwaeze), in commemoration of the 10th year memorial of late Chief Paulinus Okafor and the 10th Anniversary of the Idi Ezeani Nzekwuabuo Foundation. Ezeokenwa commended Chief Sir Ikenna K. Okafor, KSS, for his generous contributions to the community, which include members' outreach schemes. The event showcased the power of giving back to the community. The executive governor of Anambra Sta

REDEFINING BURIAL CEREMONY IN IGBOLAND By Izuchukwu Adichie The recent burial ceremony of the late Pa Simeon Nwankwo Soludo (Ichie Akukananwa 1) has continue to garner widespread praise and admiration for its exemplary conduct and decency. The event, which took place on December 23, 2023, has been hailed as a revolution in the Igbo culture of burial ceremonies. While it is true that the celebration of a life well-lived aligns closely with Anambra State's Burial Law of 2019, which aims to provide more affordable burial options while maintaining dignity. However, Soludo took things a step further by returning the funeral ceremony to its original form. In the past, Igboland was known for decent funerals that were free of obscenity and pressure on family members and friends. Unfortunately, this has changed over time, with many people now feeling compelled to sell their land and properties or even borrow money to give their loved ones a "befitting" burial. The recent event was

GOVERNOR AKEREDOLU'S PASSING A DEVASTATING LOSS: APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN. The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has expressed deep sadness at the tragic demise of Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu of Ondo State, stating, "This catastrophic event marks a sorrowful period not only for the government and people of Ondo State, and the All Progressives Congress (APC), but for the nation that he faithfully served." Governor Akeredolu was a son of Owo, Ondo State, born on the 21st of July, 1956, a distinguished alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, and an esteemed member of the Bar since 1978. His death on Wednesday, at the age of 67, constitutes a significant loss, dimming the light of one of the most prominent legal minds in Nigeria. The APGA National Chairman acknowledged the remarkable legacy of Governor Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and an exemplary former President of the Nigerian Bar Association. &qu

 SOLUDO MOURNS DEATH  OF AKEREDOLU It is with deep sadness and a sore heart that Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, on behalf of the Government and people of Anambra State, grieves the untimely passing away of His Excellency, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, of Ondo State, in the early hours of Wednesday, December 27, 2023. The news of Governor Akeredolu's death at the age of 67 is a personal and collective loss, not just to the people of Ondo State, but to Nigeria as a whole.  As a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), he was a distinguished legal luminary, a fearless advocate, a passionate patriot, and a dedicated public servant who made a positive impact on the polity. As a governor, he left behind a legacy of remarkable achievements in Ondo State, demonstrably improving security, infrastructural development, and economic growth.  His commitment to good governance and his dogged fight for the rights of his people earned him immense respect and admiration acr

 Governor Soludo Signs The Anambra 2024 Budget. ... and other Laws. Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has signed the 2024 Appropriation Bill into Law. By this, the state government is now empowered to the implement its provisions in the 2024 fiscal year.  Recall that Governor Soludo had on November 21, 2023, presented a budget proposal of N410, 132, 225, 272 for the 2024 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly. The budget titled "Changing Gears", is 57.8% higher than that of the 2023 budget. It is focused on expiditing efforts across the five (5) pillars of the Soludo Administration; which includes; infrastructure and Economic transformation; Security, law and order; governance and value system; the environment; Social Agenda and human capital development. Performing the function, Governor Soludo thanked all stakeholders who have been involved in the entire process, pointing out that the Anambra State House of Assembly worked very hard to see that the La

 MARRIAGE: A JOURNEY OF LOVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND MUTUAL RESPECT, SAYS EZEOKENWA AS SOLUDO MARKS 31ST ANNIVERSARY. By Dr. Tony Olisa Mbeki  The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has described marriage as a journey of love, perseverance, and mutual respect. Ezeokenwa made the remarks in Isuofia at the 31st wedding anniversary of Professor Charles Soludo and his wife, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, which he noted is a testament to their enduring commitment and love for each other. The APGA National Chairman congratulated the couple on this remarkable milestone, highlighting the importance of their union as a source of inspiration for many. He observed that their strong bond and unwavering support for each other have set a positive example for others to emulate. Ezeokenwa extended his warm wishes to the Soludos, wishing them continued joy, love, and happiness in the years ahead. Earlier, the celebration of this remarkable milestone commenced with a ho

 SOLUDO AND WIFE MARK 31ST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY, HAIL THE MARRIAGE INSTITUTION By Christian ABURIME. Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, and his wife, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, marked their 31st wedding anniversary with a thanksgiving mass at their residence in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area The event which doubled as a celebration of institution of marriage also saw the Governor expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all who joined them for the occasion. The Governor acknowledged the high rate of failed marriages but was quick to attribute the longevity of his union to God's abundant blessings and grace. Governor Soludo fondly recalled their commitment to celebrating each year of their marriage journey, from the very beginning to this significant 31st milestone. "This celebration is not just about our own union. "It's also a celebration of the importance of marriage itself. Every man should profess love to his wife every day"; the Governor noted. The Governor pr

 REJOICE, KEEP HOPE ALIVE: GOVERNOR SOLUDO GREETS NDI-ANAMBRA AT CHRISTMAS As the joyous bells of Christmas chime and the star of Bethlehem shines once again, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, felicitates Ndi Anambra with a heart overflowing with gratitude, festive cheer and immense hope for the future of our great state.  Christmas, a season of love, light, and goodwill, finds us at a pivotal moment in the journey of our dear State. We stand on the threshold of a brighter tomorrow, having weathered storms and challenges together, emerging stronger and more united in our resolve to build a better, safer, prosperous, homeland.  This year as we gather in churches, families and communities, let us celebrate the birth of Christ with grateful hearts. Let us count our blessings and remember the resolute faith that carried us through the year, as the abiding love for our homeland continues to be our guiding compass.  Let the warmth of this season reignite the spark o

 NIGERIANS LAUD SOLUDO'S EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP By Izuchukwu Adichie In a society where families and vulnerable individuals often resort to borrowing or selling off properties in order to give their deceased loved ones extravagant funerals, while wealthy families, governors and public officials spend exorbitantly on lavish burial ceremonies for their own family members, Nigerians are praising Governor Soludo for setting a commendable example. The governor recently ensured that his beloved father, Pa Simeon Nwankwo Soludo (Akukanawa 1), who passed away at the age of 92, received a decent funeral ceremony in accordance with Anambra state law as enacted in 2019. Soludo has now become the first Nigerian governor or public official in history to successfully bury his father decently and without any unnecessary fanfare such as funeral bulletins, brochures, gifts, ashebi uniforms, champagne drinks, posters or billboards. Prominent personalities were present at the event which was conducted

 EZEOKENWA URGES CHRISTIANS TO LIVE FOR CHRIST IN ALL SITUATIONS. [Onitsha] - The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has urged Christians to live a Christlike life in all situations, regardless of the vicissitudes and uncertainties of life. Ezeokenwa made the call today at the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Living Christ Mission INC in Onitsha, Anambra State. The APGA National Chairman emphasized the importance of embodying the teachings and principles of Christ in everyday life and highlighted the need for Christians to remain steadfast and faithful, even in the face of adversity. The APGA National Chairman commended the Founder, Leader, and Archbishop of the Living Christ Mission, His Grace, The Most Rev. Professor Daddy Hezekiah OON, Chancellor, Hezekiah University, Umudi, Imo State, Nigeria, for his remarkable contributions to the growth and development of the mission. Ezeokenwa praised the visionary leadership of Professor Da

 BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE: NZE SIMEON SOLUDO’S LIFE AND TIMES,  RAISING AN ENVIABLE FAMILY! (PART 6) By Christian ABURIME  In the rich cultivation of Nze Simeon Nwankwo Soludo’s family life, each thread wove a story of love, destiny, resilience and achievement.  Marriage, a cornerstone in his life, began at a tender age of 15 in 1946. Mgbafor, also known as Mgbafor-Iticho due to her petite stature, became his first wife.  Hailing from Ezehanu Kindred in Umueze Village, she was an orphan, brought into the Soludo household by Obele, Simeon’s step-mother.  Known for her industry, resourcefulness, and sagacity, she was deemed a fitting partner for young Simeon. This union bore six children, but the family was touched by tragedy as three - Paulina, Silas, and Emeka - succumbed to the cruel hand of fate, leaving behind Emmanuel, Chukwuma, and Ogochukwu.  During the turmoil of the Civil War in 1968, Mgbafor passed away. However, before her passing, Simeon entered into a second marriage with Ver

 “Be of good cheer” By Izuchukwu Adichie It is another Christmas season and Soludo’s selfless leadership has rekindled the fascinating story of celebrating Christmas in Anambra, ensuring that our people including our visitors will have the safest, pleasurable, and memorable holiday season in the state. Every family in Anambra including the most weakly communities are singing Soludo’s praises. It has been two decades since our people and our visitors last enjoyed pleasurable vehicular movement, on Christmas and other days beyond, but the “Solution in Anambra” has not just constructed quality roads, he has gone ahead to beautify the roads, maintaining existing roads, mount solar-powered Street lights, revived traffic management and adequate security patrols. This Christmas is different because, for the first time, thousands of Anambra households, nursing, and motherless homes received rice palliative, civil servants and pensioners were not left out of their non-taxable cash awards. The p

 “Why Guinness World Record should recognize Soludo” By Izuchukwu Adichie Who knows if the organizers of the Guinness World Record are tracking the many unprecedented firsts of Soludo in his 20 months in office? For the first time since the creation of Nigeria, government palliatives are directly being distributed to the common man, disabled, and elderly on their doorstep. It wasn't shared through a political party or government agents but rather, through “Umunna” or kindred under the watchful eyes of the community and church leadership. Before now, government social welfare palliatives in Anambra were only distributed to those in Awka or those who could travel to AwKa without making the poor and vulnerable a priority, Now, things are being done differently, Soludo has insisted that social palliatives must reach the most vulnerable in our state. The over 300,000 bags of rice were distributed to the 326 wards through which it further went to “Umunna” or kindred for onward distributi

 APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN AFFIRMS FOOTBALL AS KEY DRIVER FOR ADVANCING A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR NIGERIAN YOUTHS. [Otuocha] - The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, has reiterated the crucial role of football in creating a brighter future for Nigerian youth. His remarks were made during the ANAMBRA East Football Tournament finale match between Nando and Nsugbe at Otuocha Stadium, hosted by the Anambra State Commissioner for Power, Engr. Julius Nnaemeka. Highlighting the tremendous impact of football on the lives of young Nigerians, Barr. Ezeokenwa emphasized its significance in fostering personal development, promoting teamwork, instilling discipline, and nurturing ambitions. He acknowledged that the sport of football has long been an influential force in shaping the lives of Nigerian youths, providing immense opportunities for growth and advancement. As part of APGA's commitment to the development and empowerment of Nigerian youths, Barr.

Idemili South Council Chair, Amaka Obi lauds Mrs Soludo on Nanka Teens Summit 2023. .....Commends her generosity for giving succour to Welfare Homes In Anambra By Emmy Young  The Transition Committee Chairman of Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Hon Obi Amaka Iyom has commended Anambra Governor's wife, Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo for educating and enlightening the teenagers on the adverse effects of drug abuse and the need for Healthy living.  Hon Amaka made the commendation on Tuesday, during the 2023 Nanka Teens Summit in Orumba South Council Area.  Hon Amaka thanked the governor's wife, for adding her voice on the campaign against drug abuse and for educating the teens on the importance of healthy living.  She noted that the governor's wife is living by her words that a healthy nation is a wealthy nation and people should shine the light of love this Christmas.  She further commended Dr Mrs Soludo for her show of love and passion towards widows, orphans and

 TONY NWOYE: ONE OF THE MISTAKES OF THE OBIDIENT WIND THAT NDI ANAMBRA NORTH MUST CORRECT -- Mazi Ejimofor Opara There are people to be taken seriously within Anambra political circle, and there are others whom history has consigned to a place of perpetual dishonor. Tony Nwoye is one of such political debris the 2023 wind blew back to assumed relevance. A better advise would be that he should not test the memory of ndi Anambra nor take their good will for granted.  In the last 7months of the 10th Senate, the garrulous Tony has had nothing but excuses and complaints, fighting lost battles and denying the people of Anambra North their right to sound and qualitative representation at the Senate. This is why political decisions must be made from the head, not the heart. The reason we must begin to hold these crop of legislators accountable for what they promised to do for the people is the glaring fact that all of them are "Old wines in New wine skins". Soludo-bashing" is no

 “Event MC Tony Nwoye will work and vote for Soludo’s re-election” By Izuchukwu Adichie We know that Tony Nwoye from Anambra North desperately wants to become a governor, well, he should note that Anambra state cannot be ruled by people with questionable character, people without known academic history, and people who will take the glory, peace, and progress of the state back to the stone age of toutism. Tony Nwoye -the “Eze amaghi na o ga echi” should be advised to find another vocation and note that the year 2025 is not a year of destiny for him and the Labour Party in Anambra state, because both do not exist, can never exist, and can't contest successfully against APGA, the Anambra political party. He is only a loquacious Senator who should have spent time learning his new roles as a legislator and not upgrading himself as an event MC. Although Soludo is busy delivering good governance across Anambra including in Tony’s ward and community, and not thinking about 2025, if he even

Hope rises as Soludo meets with co-former political appointees By Izuchukwu Adichie The chants, rousing of “Solution Is Here” rented the all-hallowed hall of Dora Akunyili Women Development Center, Awka, as Soludo made entrance to a special meeting with his old colleagues under the umbrella body of “former Obiano political appointees” and the rendition of the APGA Anthem evoked eulogies that Anambra is APGA land. An eventful and emotional moment for the compassionate Soludo whose administration has continued to be humane by putting smiles on the faces of the people, a great display of his open-door policy and principles of leaving no one behind has seen for the extension of distribution of Christmas rice palliative and other bonuses to his old colleagues who they all served together. Anywhere around the world, every reunion is a meeting of old colleagues, and associates to reflect on remarkable moments, indeed, 2023 has been an extraordinary year marked by historic moments, unprecedent

 "I Served Pro Bono" -- Gov Soludo To His Former Colleagues.  By Mazi Ejimofor Opara  The Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka was electrified yesterday as former Appointees of the State government who served between 2014-2022 converged at the behest of Gov. Soludo.  Speaking to the group, Mr Governor reminded them that it is first a privilege to have served Anambra and all they owe God and the people is gratitude for standing out amongst millions of other equally qualified people who couldn't be appointed to serve. He reminded them that as a former Appointee who served as the Chairman, Board of the Golden Tulip Hotels, Agulu, and the Chairman of the Anambra Vision 2070 committee, he provided his service "Free of Charge", not a penny was charged by him for the tasks he executed. For him, he continues to pray for the platform to touch the lives of the people as that is one of the greatest privilege any individual can enjoy in their life time. Gov. Soludo

 GOVERNOR SOLUDO RE-ECHOES HIS "LEAVE NOBODY BEHIND" STANCE TO FORMER POLITICAL APPOINTEES UNDER THE IMMEDIATE PAST REGIME By Christian ABURIME Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has re-echoed the core value behind the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA. The Governor's act of embracing everyone took center stage when he convoked a meeting of the former appointees who served in the immediate past regime. It was held at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women's Development Centre, Awka. The meeting was aimed at amicably resolving the issues concerning the political appointees who felt neglected and abandoned. The Governor who reminded them that he also served as an appointed under the former regime, said his decision to convene the meeting was due to his empathetic disposition towards everyone, including the poor, down-trodden and the forgotten. The Governor explained that his government, especially APGA administration have continued to demonstrate and churn out policies that wi