Anambra News

 Let's raise a toast to Mrs. Nonye Soludo on her 54th birthday! By IZUCHUKWU Adichie Today, Ndi Anambra is celebrating the birthday of Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the wife of the governor who has chosen not to be referred to as the Anambra First Lady. Unlike her predecessors and colleagues, she doesn't operate from the traditional First Lady's office. Additionally, she doesn't have a routine official convoy and appointees, as seen in the past, and currently, in other states —she drives her husband's personal car. She prefers to focus on making a difference in quieter, more meaningful ways. Cheers, dear mother, for your remarkable compassion and empathy have redefined the role of a governor's wife, demonstrating that it extends far beyond mere adornments and regal appearances. Your focus is on actively engaging in initiatives to enhance the well-being of our people. Your tireless efforts to build a brighter future for our children serve as a beacon of inspiration for us a

 Idemili South APGA Stakeholders Commiserate with Amaka Obi over the Death of his Cousin Senator Ifeanyi Ubah  By Emmy Young  The Transition committee chairman of Idemili South LGA has received more condolence messages from close allies in the council area over the sudden demise of her first cousin brother, Sen Dr Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah who represented Anambra South Senatorial Zone at the National Assembly, before his death on Saturday, 27th July 2024, at 52 years. Senator Ubah who slumped in London, was reportedly to have died of cardiac arrest. Reacting to shocking and very sorrowful news, the chairman of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), in Idemili South, Hon Kezito Anoliefo described Senator Ubah's death as a “great loss to Nigeria’s democracy and the Nnewi community.  Hon Kezito also sent condolences to the family members, the T.C Chairman, Hon Amaka Obi, friends and professional colleagues of the deceased, he noted that the late senator distinguished himself as a business

 THE OTHER SIDE OF GOVERNOR SOLUDO AT 64 By Christian ABURIME  Great leaders are often more than meets the eye. While the public spotlight illuminates their public persona, a wealth of admirable human and personal qualities often remains concealed. These hidden depths, such as extraordinary empathy, quiet humility, flexibility, or profound intellectual curiosity, fuel their leadership and contribute to their enduring impact. It is indeed a tribute to their character that they prioritise service over self, making their private virtues instrumental to their public success. As ndi Anambra celebrates the 64th birthday of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, today, it is an opportune moment to reflect on those sublime, less known qualities that set him apart as a leader. While his economic acumen and visionary governance have been widely recognised, there are deeper layers to his persona that often go unnoticed. Governor Soludo embodies an empathetic leadership style that genuinely cares

 Salute to Soludo at 64! BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie Let's celebrate and honour Soludo as he turns 64 years old. It is a moment to reflect on the milestones in his life. He has experienced both triumphs and challenges, but what truly stands out is his compassion, empathy, and selfless leadership. These qualities have not only shaped his character but have also been evident in his lifestyle, career, and political journey. Soludo's life is a shining example of integrity and dedication that we can all draw inspiration from. Apart from being a respected governor, he also serves as a father figure to many, including my immediate family. As a true Christian, he embodies the values of his faith and is known for his generosity and deep concern for the welfare of his people, employees, and the broader well-being of humanity. In the past 64 years, Soludo has demonstrated courage, optimism, deep faith, and forthright honesty. His impact has been far-reaching, offering hope to many with the firm

 Press Statement GOVERNOR SOLUDO GRIEVES OVER DEATH OF SENATOR IFEANYI UBAH The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed his profound shock and grief over the sudden demise of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, a vibrant businessman and politician, today in London at the age of 52 years. In his condolence remark, Governor Soludo lamented that the untimely death of Senator Ubah, Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial zone, came as a sorely regrettable loss to Anambra South and Anambra State as a whole, at this difficult time that Ndigbo and Nigeria just lost another patriot in Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.  The Governor described Senator Ifeanyi Ubah as a prominent son of Anambra State and an outstanding Nigerian whose impact on the polity and business sphere was quite significant. As the representative of Anambra South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, and the CEO of Capital Oil, his contributions to the development of Anambra State and Nigeri

 Soludo rescued Fegge after 56 years of infrastructure neglect  ~~Igwe Iweka III BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie It was a moving scene when Soludo and ndi Anambra gathered at Achebe Stadium in Fegge to witness Igwe Chidubem Iweka III, the traditional ruler of Obosi do the ceremonial blessing of the kolanut for the distribution of 1,040,000 economic tree seedlings. During the event, the Iweka III shared an emotional account of growing up in Fegge, Onitsha, and experiencing the city's severe dearth of infrastructure, including inadequate access roads, dearth of public facilities and lawlessness. It was a powerful reminder of the 56 years of neglect that the forgotten urban centre had endured until Soludo assumed office two years ago. Now, everything that was once wrong with Onitsha South has been transformed. From a once-ruined slum, the city has transformed into a thriving urban center. The former 18-year-old waste site is now a center for water fountain, and the road infrastructure has been g

 Soludo becomes the first Anambra governor to go green, plant 2.2 million economic tree seedlings, and target zero poverty rate BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie Soludo has made history by becoming the first Anambra State governor in history to prioritize environmental conservation. Under his initiative, 2.2 million economic tree seedlings have been planted to achieve zero poverty. Embracing a greener approach, the governor aims to plant at least one million economic trees and seedlings annually, with a target to distribute 10 million trees over the next six years. This initiative not only aims to build a healthier ecosystem but also to restore degraded land, ensuring a sustainable future for all. Soludo's regenerative agriculture revolution aims to reinvent the cultivation of extinct cash crops. In the past, self-sufficiency was common in households as they cultivated four or more cash crops in their farmland. These cash crops played a significant role in the economic restoration of Nigeria du

 SOLUDO SUSTAINS ECONOMIC/GREEN REVOLUTION, DISTRIBUTES OVER ONE MILLION SEEDLINGS IN ANAMBRA By Christian ABURIME In furtherance of his administration's  sustainable economic  initiative, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has inaugurated the distribution of one million and forty cash crops across the state. Among the cash crops currently being distributed through the 326 political wards through the Umunna system are seven hundred thousand palm seedlings, two hundred thousand ukwa seedlings, fifty thousand bitter kola and forty thousand paw-paw seedlings. "We are celebrating the revolution, and we are here to signpost again one of the silver bullets that we have crafted to be able to drive sustainable environment, wealth creation, leaving no one behind. "We are here to launch an ongoing programme designed to plant 10 million seedlings in Anambra over the next few years. "Palm, oil, coconut oil, and other economic trees will in the medium

 Soludo begins the distribution of the 1,040 000 economic trees' seedlings BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie To revitalize the agricultural sector, achieve a zero poverty rate, promote sustainable economic development and bring degraded land back to productivity, the Soludo administration on the assumption of office initiated a cash crop revolution in the state. As part of this initiative, 1,000,000 economic tree seedlings were distributed to 110,000 households in 2022 through the traditional Umunna system of distribution. Building on this success, an additional 1,040,000 seedlings are set to be launched on Saturday, July 20th, 2024, at Achebe Stadium, Fegge, Onitsha. The distribution aims to support and encourage the cultivation of economic trees such as 700,000 oil palm, 200,000 ukwa, 50,000 akilu, 50,000 oji Igbo and 40,000 paw-paw, which historically played a crucial role in the economic prosperity of Old Eastern region before the focus shifted to crude oil production in the mid-70s. This p

 Chekwas Okorie's phantasmagorias and blackmailing trademark BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie In Chief Chekwas Okorie's extensive failed political career, every Nigerian knew him for being libellous and employing unfounded accusations. He has a recurring pattern of shifting blame for his shortcomings onto others and resorting to blackmail. It begs the question: Is there anyone who hasn't been targeted by Chief Chekwas Okorie's relentless campaign of blackmail and defamation? His sins led to his suspension from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2004, which caused jubilation within the party and the country. His unrepentant guilt was characterized by gross misconduct, fund diversion, corruption, and blatant blackmail of the party. He has been described as the most despicable politician on the planet and a great extortionist. His recent activities have proven him to be the foulest man in the country's political arena and serve as a reminder of his blackmail of the Inde

 Soludo Thunders: "Sly Ezeokenwa remains the APGA national chairman." BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie On Saturday, July 13, at St. Lawrence Anglican Church, Mbaukwu, Awka South, the Governor of Anambra State and national leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Prof. Chukwuma Soludo made a resounding declaration. He firmly stated that Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa and his national officers, elected on May 31, 2023, during a well-publicized and INEC-monitored national convention, are the only recognized leaders of the progressive party. The above pronouncement by Soludo came in response to rumors that INEC had last week recognized a non-party member, one Mr Edozie Njoku, as the national chairman of APGA. Soludo's strong support for Ezeokenwa's chairmanship, expressed during the funeral service of the late Sir Nnamdi Ibezim, has served as an encouraging and uplifting message to the party's supporters across the country. This declaration has provided the party with reass

 LG Autonomy: Soludo is a true democrat. He has kept to his promise. BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie Whenever I receive calls and social media tags regarding the conduct of the local government elections, which my boss, Soludo, promised to Ndi Anambra, my response is simple: "No doubt, the uniform local government system as the third confederating unit has remained one of the contesting features of our federalism. However, in two years, Soludo has made the best of a bad system. He has kept his promise about conducting local government elections since the beginning of his term, unleashing the potential of governance at the local levels. He has promoted accountability and transparency in government and has strengthened the law to help the state organize the elections. For more than two decades before Soludo took office, Ndi Anambra had not experienced a proper local government election and an effective local government system. The local system was non-functional, abandoned, and in ruins with n

 COURT ORDER: Njoku is a meddlesome interloper, doesn't NOT exist, NOT APGA National Chairman BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie It had become a culture for unscrupulous politicians to attempt to cause distractions in Anambra state when elections were around the corner, especially in APGA, the party in power. They were fond of seeking backdoor recognition and settlement with their black market interpretations, but each time they attempted these tactics, they failed. Previously, Maxi Okwu and others, including the non-existent Jude Okeke and his Birnin-kudu, were sponsored and failed. INEC was under pressure to recognize Edozie Njoku due to the court's order. This is similar to Hon. Umeorji's recognition as APGA's gubernatorial candidate in the 2021 election, only to be removed days later. APGA is not just a political party. It is a sacred movement. So when interlopers like one Edozie Njoku attempt political schemes, we remain focused, knowing that it will only last a few days before

 PRESS RELEASE ANAMBRA STATE GOVERNMENT REFUTES CLAIMS OF STATE REVENUE AGENTS CAUSING EKE AWGBU ROAD ACCIDENT …CONDOLES WITH VICTIMS’ FAMILIES* The Government of Anambra State has denied allegations of activities of its revenue agents being responsible for the recent tragic road accident involving a trailer and other vehicles that sadly caused  loss of lives at the Eke Awgbu area of the state. While also expressing its sympathy and condolences to the victims and families affected by the unfortunate incident, the government categorically debunks the baseless and malicious claims being circulated by certain opposition elements suggesting that the accident was caused by revenue agents of the state, derogatorily referred to as “Soludo Boys.” These assertions are found to be false and unsubstantiated. A thorough investigation has been conducted by the Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue, and the findings are clear: the accident was caused by a trailer carrying cement that experienced b

 Ubah, Ozigbo; 2025 is done and dusted," Wait for another 20 years BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah and Valentine Ozigbo, who are seeking to contest against Soludo, should know that 2025 is done and dusted and should find another possible vocation, or they will be permanently retired by Hurricane Soludo, even though he is still busy delivering good governance and dividends of democracy to the people, and hasn't shown interest in seeking re-election. We are aware that Sen Ubah and Ozigbo had become serial, contenders, and losers of every gubernatorial election. They should wait for 2028 to contest and again lose. It is no longer far from now. Anyone who wants to contest against Soludo is planning to commit political suicide and is up against the collective interest of Ndi Anambra. Soludo's empathetic and compassionate leadership and stellar performance in just two years in office without even borrowing a kobo has connected him more to the hearts of the people and has

 HOW THE POWER OF ONE MAN TURNED A MILESTONE IN NIGERIAN BANKING HISTORY By Christian ABURIME On a historic Saturday at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the launch of “The Power of One Man: How Soludo-Engineered Consolidation Transformed Nigerian Banks into Global Players” commemorated the 20th anniversary of Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s groundbreaking reforms in Nigeria’s banking sector. The event, attended by distinguished guests including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and current Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, highlighted the profound impact of Soludo’s vision and leadership. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s remarks captured the essence of the evening, underscoring the urgency for current leaders to reflect on Soludo’s reforms. He called on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s leadership to “test the blood pressure and temperature” of the system, emphasizing the importance of making informed and bold decisions in turbulent times. Sanwo-Olu’s hope that future

 Thank you for banking consolidation: Nigerians pour in praises for Soludo's banking revolution BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie In a gathering filled with influential figures from Nigeria's banking sector and apex bank, Governors' Forum, private and public sectors, and entrepreneurs, among others, Soludo began his speech by rightly expressing his appreciation for Dr. Ray Echebiri, the author of the book "The Power of One Man," who deemed Soludo's legacies and achievements in the time of Central Bank of Nigeria worthy of celebration and took the time to document them. Soludo expressed his deepest appreciation for the history reviewers, his team at the CBN, and Nigerians who believed in making it possible. Yes, every July 6th is now a revolutionary day in the Nigerian banking sector as Soludo's engineering in the Central Bank remains a beacon of success, still lauded twenty years on. What makes this accomplishment truly remarkable is "Ike-otu-onye" -the Solud

 Nigerians, Remember, it is "Ike-otu-onye," a powerful phrase that means "the power of one man." BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie, As the prestigious Ijele makes its appearance in Lagos, it marks a profoundly significant moment for Nigerians and Ndi Anambra. As Soludo prepares to take the spotlight at the esteemed Eko Hotel and Suites, his presence exudes an undeniable aura, firmly positioning him at the center of attention. Today signifies yet another important milestone in his illustrious journey. As a distinguished three-time winner of the Global and African Best Central Bank Governor award, Soludo unquestionably commands the Right of Way. It is worth noting that he has been bestowed with commendation letters from two former presidents, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Alhaji Musa Yar'Ardua. This underscores his exemplary service and steerling legacies. Soludo's indelible mark on the banking world and his influential and commendable legacy at the Central Bank of Nigeria a

 THE POWER OF ONE MAN: TRIBUTE FOR SOLUDO'S VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION _By Christian ABURIME_ _Today, twenty years have passed since the seismic banking revolution that cannot be forgotten. While the reform catalyst, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, now serves as the Governor of Anambra State, the impact of his banking reforms continues to echo through Nigeria’s economy._  _The legacy of his tenure as CBN Governor endures as an evidence of the power of innovative leadership, the importance of bold reforms, and the long-term benefits of short-term disruption._  _The banking consolidation of 2004-2005 was more than just a policy change; it was a fundamental reimagining of Nigeria’s financial sector. It demonstrated that with the right vision, fervent commitment, and skilful execution, transformative change is possible even in the face of significant opposition_. _The foregoing informed the launch, today, Saturday 6th 2024, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victori

 SOLUDO: THE EXCELLENCE OF HIS EVOLUTION -- Mazi Ejimofor Opara  I am sure someone is already piecing together the "Life and Time of Charley Nwa Mgbafor: The Village Boy Who Became a Global Citizen". In that piece, you should see chapters that cover his early days and how his Mum raised a role model for him in Headmaster Ugoji. His days at Azuzuru Primary School, where he had his first major encounter with Nigerian class system where education equalized opportunities for the son of a truck driver who sat in the same classroom with kids of top level managers.  His journey to Uga Boys Secondary School where he became the first Senior Prefect of the school, holding same position for a record two sessions, after him no other person has repeated this feat in the history of the school. These early days were characterized by distinctive academic records, perfected further when he finished with First Class across all levels of his tertiary education at the University of Nigeria, Nsuk

 This "July" is for Soludo BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of closely working with Soludo. Two of those years were dedicated to engaging in political activities, while the remainder were focused on serving Ndi Anambra. Our bond continues to strengthen with each passing day. Soludo's life is filled with impactful moments, inspiring people to create meaningful experiences for others. However, the month of July holds a special place in his heart. July is not only his birth month but also the birth month of his beloved wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo. Additionally, Soludo will be in Lagos this weekend, where his second life in the world of banking is being revisited and reviewed, and his laudable achievements will be celebrated in a book, titled; "The Power of One Man" by Ray Echebiri, PhD. It has been twenty years since the groundbreaking banking consolidation, and the enduring legacy he established during that time continues to be re

Nnobi market inferno: Idemili South LG Boss visits scene, donates N300, 000 to victims By Emmy Young  Earlier, the Transition Committee Chairman of Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Hon Obi Amaka Wednesday commiserated with victims of the fire which gutted a section of shops in Nnobi market.  The early morning inferno which was caused by an electrical fault has affected a number of shops where goods worth millions of naira were reportedly lost due to the raging fire. The Council Boss, who visited the market to inspect the extent of damage by the inferno, said that she would assist the traders affected with her little widow's mite to get enable get back to their businesses. Hon Amaka appealed to the victims of the fire disaster not to despair bit to rather take the unfortunate accident as a misfortune that can befall anyone. She, thereafter, donated N300,00 three hundred thousand nairas to the victims to cushion their loses assuring that she will continue to acco

 On the recently enacted Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission Law and the newly inaugurated Transition Committee Chairmen BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie In Anambra state, the recently inaugurated Transition Committee Chairmen have been tasked with the responsibilities of upholding service delivery, maintaining financial discipline, and demonstrating commitment to their duties. There has been a significant amount of debate regarding why Soludo had not conducted local government elections, with varying opinions from both supporters and opponents of this decision. It is important to recognize that before this administration, the state had not held a proper local government election, and the local government administration was non-operational. Upon Soludo's assuming office, the administration was faced with a neglected local government system, characterized by abandoned headquarters, some overgrown with bushes, others burnt and vandalized, and a backlog of unpaid pensions for retirees.

 SOLUDO SWEARS-IN NEW TC CHAIRMEN, TASKS THEM ON DEEPENING GRASSROOT DEVELOPMENT By Christian ABURIME Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has sworn-in the newly appointed Transition Committee Chairmen in the twenty one local government areas of the state. Governor Soludo swore-in the Chairmen at the Government House, Awka. The Governor congratulated the newly sworn-in Chairmen and commiserated with them largely because of paucity of funds and the humongous responsibilities they are expected to shoulder. "You've now taken your oath of office and oath of allegiance, take the two oaths seriously. "This is a call to service, a call to do something beyond yourself. Know that you are now being called upon to serve public purpose"; the Governor stated. Governor Soludo wondered how people usually misinterpret what public office is all about, and expressed his administration's determination to ensure that every penny will be deployed to serve n