The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • NiMet Act amendment, Anosike’s quest for best quality service delivery 

    NiMet Act amendment, Anosike’s quest for best quality service delivery 

    By Bonaventure Phillips Melah

    Although Professor Charles Anosike has continued to receive commendations from workers, labour unions, journalists and others stakeholders for his exemplary leadership and huge achievements recorded within just one year and some months in office as the Director General/CEO, of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), his unquenchable appetite for excellence and to provide best quality service wherever he finds himself, are some of the factors behind NiMet management’s current efforts to amend the Agency’s establishment Act.

    Consequently, the House of Representatives on Monday, July 21, 2025, organized a Public Hearing on a bill initiated by its Committee on Aviation Technology which was sponsored by the former Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Isiaq Abiodun Akinlade, seeking to provide clear and detailed framework for the Agency’s cost recovery across various sectors, especially for non-aviation bodies as well as strengthen NiMet’s capacities to fulfill its mandate, promote efficiency, improve infrastructure, ensure safety and enhance staff welfare.

    At the event, Anosike succinctly summed up the reason for seeking the amendment, saying the practice of cost recovery was an acceptable norm; and in line with global best practices. He stressed that it was a critical requirement for the sustainability of the Agency.

    He said- “The NiMet Bill, 2025 is principally about fulfilling the statutory responsibilities of the Agency and ensuring attendant costs for services rendered are duly recovered as envisaged by the Principal Act. This is crucial in order to ensure the Agency is self-sustaining, efficient, and responsive to national development needs, in line with its Mandate. We therefore respectfully request that the amendments proposed in the NiMet Bill be approved.”

    He said that although the NiMet Act was amended as recently as 2022 to strengthen the Agency’s legal and operational framework, the realities of implementation have revealed some gaps that hinder its full effectiveness and mentioned in particular, challenges in the areas of cost recovery, rulemaking, and compliance/enforcement.

    “We must acknowledge that no law, however well-conceived, can anticipate every future challenge at the time of enactment. Legal frameworks must therefore remain flexible and responsive to evolving needs, especially in rapidly changing, data-driven sectors such as meteorology. Against this backdrop, it is pertinent to note that NiMet has made significant progress over the years in enhancing the quality, accuracy, and reach of its services. Nevertheless, to keep pace with the growing demands of Nigeria’s dynamic economy and to ensure the long-term sustainability of its operations, it is imperative that the Agency be equipped with a strengthened legal framework that addresses existing gaps and aligns with both national development priorities and international best practices.

    “The Purpose of this presentation is simply to justify the amendments proposed in the NiMet Bill, 2025. Particularly, those geared towards the establishment of a cost recovery framework that ensures the sustainable delivery of critical meteorological services to sectors such as marine, construction and telecommunications. These amendments are intended to: Strengthen national meteorological infrastructure and resilience; Enhance safety, efficiency, and planning across sectors; Ensure that users of specialized meteorological services in the stated sectors pay costs associated with the provision of such services.”

    Anosike noted that while the current Act (Sections 7(1)(l) and 7(2)) empowers NiMet to issue meteorological information and to impose cost and sustainability recovery charges, it only provides a detailed framework for cost recovery within the aviation sector, adding that there is currently no equivalent mechanism for non-aeronautical sectors, resulting in unrecovered operational costs, increased pressure on government funding, poor infrastructural development and limited-service coverage.

    “It is also important to clarify that International best practices support cost recovery from specialized services. Both WMO Resolution 40 and Resolution 25 endorse cost recovery from commercial and non-core public good services.”

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudden Abbas, represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Adewumi Onanuga (Ogun, APC), while declaring the public hearing open, reiterated the commitment of the National Assembly to people-oriented legislature. He said critical and strategic MDAs such as NiMet, would be strengthened to ensure they have capacities for public growth, transparency and responsive to national needs, including climate changes and hazardous weather mitigation for safety of lives, especially vulnerable communities, among others.

    Others who attended the public hearing and gave overwhelming support for amendment of NiMet Act include representatives of World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), NIMASA, FAAN, NCC, Trade Unions and three past Directors-General of NiMet, namely, Engr. Dr. Jide Adeniji, Dr. Anthony Anuforom and Professor Mansur Matazu as well as many former Directors of the Agency who made written and oral presentations. They all commended Prof. Anosike for the ongoing transformation in NiMet.

    Many of those who have worked with or currently working with Prof. Charles Anosike have described him as a workaholic and perfectionist. They also attribute the milestones recorded by NiMet management under Anosike’s leadership to his goal-achieving approach to work, making reference to his past successful career and achievements in both the public and private sectors and therefore his insatiable thirst for A-Grade results.

    Towards achieving its statutory mandate and self-set goals as well as surpass expectations of its various publics, including the federal government, the Anosike-led NiMet management has, in the last few months, initiated and implemented series of policies and programmes that are both innovative and forward-moving, in pursuit of excellence.

    The above include continuous training and retraining of workers so they can acquire additional skills and knowledge as well as signing of agreements and MoUs with local, regional and international organisations and bodies, among others.

    Within the period, the agency partnered with Korean Meteorological Administration, aimed at boosting Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based weather forecasting capacity; hosted the 14th meeting of ECOWAS Directors of Meteorological and Hydrological Services where agreement was reached to collaborate for enhancement of disaster preparedness among member countries. At the meeting, Prof. Anosike was elected President of the regional body.

    NiMet also received Automatic Weather stations from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); joined other stakeholders at the launch of the National Agribusiness Policy Mechanism (NAPM) which is an initiative of the Presidential Food Security Coordinating Unit (PFSCU NG) aimed to enhance agricultural productivity, stabilize food prices, and stimulate economic growth; and entered a partnership with IPE Global Limited, India, to explore avenues for collaboration in the dissemination of agro-meteorological information to stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.

    The agency has also assured Nigerians that it currently has world class forecast infrastructure following the unveiling of MeteoSat 3rd Generation Satellite system with advanced capabilities to provide quality data and higher resolution to improve weather forecasting.

    Professor Anosike gave the assurance while speaking at a meeting convened by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, which had as its theme ‘Prevention and management of the devastating effect of flooding in Nigeria.’

    He said- “Our forecasts range from daily, weekly, and seasonal outlooks. Some of our products in support of flood risk management includes, daily weather outlooks, three days Impact-based forecasts, weekly heavy rainfall forecasts, rainfall intensity frequency duration curve, flash flood risk mapping, quarterly drought and flood monitoring bulletin and our flagship product- the seasonal climate prediction.”

    On Tuesday, June 3, 2025, NiMet hosted a delegation from the World Bank at its headquarters in Abuja. The meeting focused on Disaster Risk Management (DRM) in Nigeria.

    Read Also: NiMet predicts two-day heavy downpour in Niger, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Kebbi

    On July 2nd 2025, NiMet hosted a dialogue where Prof. Anosike reiterated the agency’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the media and civil society in order to enhance public awareness, preparedness, and resilience in the face of climate-related risks and extreme weather events.

    Anosike and some NiMet Directors, also inspected the on-going Safe Tower Upgrade at Abuja Airport with the installation of the ceilometers, transmissiometers lightning and thunderstorm detection systems, automatic weather stations and the complete solarisation of the systems for uninterrupted power supply.

    NiMet management also officially unveiled Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) technology developed by the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT). The system, donated to Nigeria and deployed by the African Union Commission (AUC) funding support from the European Union (EU), was formally presented at NiMet’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday, May 5, 2025.

    The successful installation of the topnotch facility, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s weather monitoring and early warning infrastructure.

    At the occasion, Prof. Anosike described the MTG system as a transformative advancement in meteorological technology. He emphasized that its enhanced capabilities will greatly improve the resolution, frequency, and accuracy of weather data collection and forecasts, thereby strengthening early warning systems and national preparedness for extreme weather events.

    “The installation of the PUMA 2025 system is timely and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed commitment to modernizing weather services for the protection of lives and property. This is a critical step forward in our journey to ensure climate resilience in Nigeria,” the NiMet boss said.

    Melah is an Abuja based Journalist, Publisher and author.

  • How Gov Mbah, Ugwuanyi, Onoh can deliver Enugu for Tinubu in 2027

    How Gov Mbah, Ugwuanyi, Onoh can deliver Enugu for Tinubu in 2027

    By Adolphus Udeh

    In the bustling political landscape of Enugu State, a new chapter is unfolding as the 2027 general elections loom on the horizon. At the heart of this narrative is Denge Dr. Josef Onoh, a political heavyweight and former campaign spokesman for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the South East, who has issued a clarion call to Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, to align with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure a victory for Tinubu in the state. 

    Onoh’s statement, delivered with characteristic candor, underscores the necessity of a strategic alliance between the two leaders and most especially former Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, a member of the G5 to deliver Enugu for the president, while also highlighting the formidable influence Onoh wields—a force that could significantly impact Mbah’s political fortunes if they fail to unite. 

    Onoh is the only candidate that could run against Gov. Mba either from Enugu East senatorial zone or Enugu west senatorial zone as he hails from both zones in what can best be described as a political trinity. 

    Dr. Josef Onoh is no stranger to Enugu’s political arena. A former member of the Enugu State House of Assembly (2003–2007), a Senior special adviser to the former Governor Ugwuanyi on Domestic Matters, a Senior Special Adviser on security matters, a Senior Special Adviser on Special Projects, a commissioner, office of the Governor and the Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), a former 2023 PDP gubernatorial aspirant, the Founder of the Asiwaju Renewed Mandate South East (ARMSE), and Chairman of Forum of former members of Enugu House of Assembly. 

    Onoh has built a reputation as a principled and influential figure. His tenure as ECTDA Chairman saw transformative projects, such as the relocation of the Enugu Building Materials Market and contributions to the development of Akanu Ibiam International Airport. His political journey, from the days of the Grassroot democracy movement (GDM), marked by a bold defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to champion Tinubu’s 2023 presidential campaign, cemented his status as a loyalist of the APC and a voice for Southern Nigeria’s interests.

    Onoh’s influence extends beyond Enugu. As Tinubu’s South East campaign spokesman, he navigated a region where the APC struggled to gain traction, particularly in Enugu, Anambra, and Abia, where Tinubu garnered only 1.1% of the vote in 2023. Despite this, Onoh’s relentless advocacy for Tinubu, rooted in his belief in a Southern presidency, earned him respect and a direct line to the presidency. His ability to mobilize support, as seen in his efforts to rally Igbo traders in Lagos for Governor Sanwo-Olu, demonstrates his grassroots reach and strategic acumen.

    Onoh’s clout is further amplified by his familial legacy. As the son of former Anambra State Governor Christian Onoh, he carries a dynastic weight that resonates in Igbo politics. His outspoken critiques, such as his defense of Tinubu against Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s attacks and his condemnation of Peter Obi’s political oscillations, showcase his fearless approach to shaping public discourse. This influence makes Onoh a pivotal player in Enugu, capable of swaying voters and political stakeholders—a reality Governor Mbah cannot ignore.

    Governor Peter Mbah’s Political Crossroads as a PDP stalwart, has been a transformative figure in Enugu since his narrow victory in the 2023 gubernatorial election, where he polled 160,895 votes to defeat Labour Party’s Chijioke Edeoga by a mere 3,343 votes. His administration has been lauded for its comprehensive approach to governance, revitalizing sectors like infrastructure, education, health, and security. 

    The PDP’s resurgence in Enugu, reclaiming 20 of 24 State Assembly seats and five of eight House of Representatives seats, is a testament to Mbah’s political dexterity and appeal. However, Mbah faces a complex political landscape. The 2023 elections revealed Enugu’s volatility, with the Labour Party initially dominating before defections bolstered the PDP. 

    Moreover, Mbah’s governance style, while effective, has drawn criticism for actions like market demolitions, which the APC has capitalized on to rally defectors. Reports suggest Mbah is weighing options to either defect to the APC or remain in the PDP while supporting Tinubu’s re-election, a move driven by his close ties to the presidency and a desire to secure his own re-election in 2027.

    Onoh’s statement to President Tinubu—“I cannot deliver Enugu State for the president in 2027 without the cooperation of Governor Peter Mbah” is a strategic plea for unity. Onoh recognizes that Enugu’s political dynamics require a combined effort to overcome the region’s historical resistance to the APC. 

    In 2023, Enugu overwhelmingly supported Peter Obi, with Tinubu securing only 1.1% of the vote. Onoh’s experience as a campaigner in this challenging terrain underscores his understanding that delivering Enugu demands Mbah’s administrative machinery and grassroots support.

    Onoh’s urging Mbah to join the APC is not merely a call for party loyalty but a pragmatic strategy for political realignment. If Mbah defects, he would likely become the APC’s leader in Enugu, consolidating power and sidelining local APC factions led by figures like Uche Nnaji, who have vowed to unseat Mbah. Such a move would align Enugu with the national ruling party, ensuring federal support and enhancing Mbah’s re-election prospects. For Onoh, this alliance would leverage his influence to mobilize APC loyalists while tapping into Mbah’s governance achievements to sway undecided voters.

     *The Stakes of Discord* 

    Should Mbah and Onoh fail to align, the consequences could be dire for both Enugu’s political stability and Tinubu’s re-election bid. Onoh’s influence, rooted in his ability to galvanize communities and his direct access to Tinubu, could be wielded to rally opposition against Mbah. His past interventions, such as advocating for Ogui-Nike’s turn in local government leadership, demonstrate his capacity to shape local politics and challenge established powers. If Onoh mobilizes against Mbah, he could erode the governor’s support base, particularly in areas like Enugu North LGA, where Onoh hails from.

    For Mbah, resisting cooperation risks alienating the APC’s growing presence in Enugu, fueled by defections from the PDP, LP, and APGA. The APC, under leaders like Uche Nnaji, is aggressively positioning itself to capture Enugu in 2027, capitalizing on public discontent with policies like market demolitions. Without Onoh’s support, Mbah could face a fragmented PDP and a resurgent APC, jeoparding his re-election chances.

    For Tinubu, a divided Enugu could jeopardize his South East strategy. The region’s governors, including Mbah, are reportedly leaning toward supporting Tinubu, as noted by Minister of Works Dave Umahi. However, without a unified front, the APC’s chances of breaking the South East’s opposition stronghold diminish, especially given the coalition of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    A Path Forward

    The synergy between Onoh and Mbah could be a game-changer. Onoh’s grassroots influence and loyalty to Tinubu, combined with Mbah’s administrative prowess and PDP machinery, could deliver a significant portion of Enugu’s votes to the APC. Mbah’s defection to the APC, as Onoh suggests, would streamline this effort, positioning Enugu as a key battleground for Tinubu’s re-election. It would also neutralize internal APC opposition, ensuring a cohesive campaign strategy.

    As Enugu navigates this critical juncture, the stakes are high. Onoh’s call for cooperation is a reminder that in Nigeria’s fluid political landscape, alliances are forged not just on ideology but on mutual benefit. For Mbah, aligning with Onoh and the APC could secure his political future and elevate Enugu’s role in national politics. For Onoh, it’s an opportunity to cement his legacy as a kingmaker who delivered Enugu for Tinubu. Together, they could reshape Enugu’s political destiny, but failure to unite risks a fragmented effort that could cost them both—and Tinubu—in 2027.

    Comrade Udeh is the Former Chairman of APC in Enugu State

  • Anambra shuts ‘baby factory,’ rescues teenagers

    Anambra shuts ‘baby factory,’ rescues teenagers

    Anambra State Government has shut down a notorious baby factory, masquerading as a hospital in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.

     The illegal facility, operating under the name Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity, is located at No. 1 School Road, near Tansian University.

     Acting on months of surveillance and intelligence gathering, the government, working in close collaboration with security agencies, stormed the premises with officials of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade), arresting key members of the suspected criminal network.

     The so-called hospital was found to be operating with a falsified license and was owned by a self-proclaimed medical doctor, Odili Ossai, a native of Delta State.

     Authorities have confirmed that the syndicate was involved in the trafficking and exploitation of young girls, aged 15, 19, and 21.

     “Many of the victims were reportedly held against their will and forced into pregnancies, with newborns sold into illegal adoption rings.

     “Several teenage girls and infants were rescued during the raid and are now receiving comprehensive medical care and psychological support,” the report revealed.

     Addressing newsmen, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, described the crackdown as “a significant victory in the ongoing battle against child trafficking, human rights violations, and gender-based abuse.”

    Read Also: Woman arrested, 11 kids rescued as Anambra, Adamawa police burst child trafficking syndicate

     He emphasised the government’s unwavering commitment to shutting down all illegal medical establishments and safeguarding public health.

     “This operation underscores the importance of collaboration between security agencies and health regulators.

     “We are determined to rid Anambra of fake medical practitioners and criminal networks that exploit the vulnerable,” he added.

     Obidike also highlighted the role of the State Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit (SHFAMU) and the State Illegal and Anti-Quackery Taskforce Team, established to identify and eliminate unauthorised health facilities across Anambra.

     He urged the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting suspicious activities related to healthcare practices.

  • Police commence investigation into death of former ONICCIMA President Akaneme

    Police commence investigation into death of former ONICCIMA President Akaneme

    THE Anambra Police Command said it has commenced full investigations on the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr  Okechukwu Akaneme, former President of Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA).

    The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Awka.

    Ikenga stated that the command was aware of a disturbing narrative currently circulating across public social media platforms concerning the death of Akaneme.

    He said that Akaneme was a respected figure in the Onitsha business community and former president of the Onitsha chamber of commerce.

    According to him, Akaneme allegedly sustained life-threatening injuries following an enforcement operation purportedly carried out by personnel of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA) and allegedly accompanied by armed police officers, on Oct. 11, 2024.

    “It was further alleged that this operation, in the course of enforcing waste management compliance, resulted in Akaneme suffering spinal injuries from which he never fully recovered, ultimately leading to his reported demise on July 10.

    “The command expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Mr Akaneme and recognises his significant contributions to the state’s socio-economic development”, Ikenga stated.

    He explained that, in response to the allegations, the command acknowledged that an internal inquiry was previously initiated surrounding the circumstances of the injury sustained by Akaneme in October 2024.

    Read Also: Police smash another kidnap gang in Kaduna, arrest six, recover AK-47 rifles

    Ikenga further revealed that, preliminary findings at the time, suggested that the actions of some individuals involved in the said enforcement operation fell outside the standard operating procedures of law enforcement personnel.

    He, however, disclosed that, with the unfortunate passing of Akaneme, the command had considered the matter reopened.

    He hinted that the Commissioner of Police had directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, to immediately review the case file and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the events of Oct. 11, 2024.

    The PPRO said that the ongoing investigation would help reveal any subsequent actions or inactions by individuals or agencies allegedly involved.

    “The command wishes to reaffirm that no officer of the Nigeria Police Force is above the law and any personnel found to have acted unprofessionally or unlawfully in the discharge of their duties will face appropriate disciplinary and legal measures”, he added.

    He disclosed that the command was in touch with relevant state agencies to ensure full cooperation in unraveling the truth behind this matter.

    The PRO noted that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Ikioye Orutugu, assured members of the public that the command remains committed to upholding justice, accountability and the protection of human rights.

    He said that the command would leave no stone unturned in this renewed investigation.

  • Ebonyi seals two hostels, launches investigation into collapsed building

    Ebonyi seals two hostels, launches investigation into collapsed building

    Following the collapse of a building, Pentagon Lodge, located directly in front of the main gate of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State government on Saturday, visited the scene of the incident.

     Although the incident occurred outside the university’s premises, the lodge is fully occupied by students of AE-FUNAI, though no lives were lost, the state government is treating the incident with utmost seriousness.

     The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Capital City Development, Sunday Inyima, who led an on-the-spot assessment of the scene, directed that all students residing in Pentagon Lodge be immediately evacuated to safer accommodation.

     The Commissioner also sealed off Kalas Lodge, another nearby hostel, to allow for a thorough integrity test and investigation into the structural safety of the building.

    Inyima was accompanied by officials of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Council, Sunday Nwankwo, and members of the AE-FUNAI management team.

    Read Also: Three rescued from Abuja collapsed building

     He appealed to the university authorities to provide temporary accommodation to the displaced students pending the outcome of the structural assessment.

     He said: “We received information early this morning about the collapse of a private hostel near the university. Though it is not located within the school compound, it is fully occupied by AE-FUNAI students. .

     We first paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), before proceeding to the site.

     “To our greatest shock, we saw a massive structural collapse. It was by divine intervention that no lives were lost. However, government will not take this lightly. For a long time, we have warned developers to follow due process and ensure adherence to building codes.

     “Our preliminary assessment suggests that substandard materials and lack of professional supervision contributed to the collapse.

     “We are setting up an inter-ministerial committee to ensure all student hostels around the university are safe. The safety of our sons and daughters is our top priority.”

     Inima stressed that although the investigation was ongoing, early signs point to gross violations of building standards, and those responsible would be held accountable once findings are made public.

     Meanwhile, the state governor, Francis Nwifuru, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse of the hostel building.

    Nwifuru expressed deep concern over the incident, stressing that most cases of building collapse in Nigeria are the result of human error and the failure to comply with established building codes.

     He noted that such negligence poses a serious threat to human life.

  • Five killed as truck rams into Anambra park

    Five killed as truck rams into Anambra park

    No fewer than five persons, including children lost their lives Friday night in a fatal crash in Amichi in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

    A speeding tipper loaded with sand was said to have crashed into a crowd along the busy Nnewi-Ideato Express road by Chisco Park Junction following loss of control.

    The accident which occurred around 7:30 pm was said to have claimed the life of a middle-aged man who just buried his late father and was preparing for thanksgiving service on Sunday.

     Trending videos from the scene and CCTV footage of the crash showed people in their usual night time activities when the tipper rammed into them.

    Read Also: Woman arrested, 11 kids rescued as Anambra, Adamawa Police burst child trafficking syndicate

     The footage showed several of the victims lying on the floor, including motorcyclists, bystanders and petty traders.

     President General of Obiagu Amichi, Chief Chinedu Nzekwe who confirmed the incident said the community was yet to ascertain the exact number of casualties.

    “The scene of the accident is the center of three kindreds that are part of Obiagu village, namely Ebenato, Okpara and Uhuachi.

     “The other victims were rushed to the nearby hospitals, and information reaching me revealed they are responding to treatment,” he said.

     Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in the State, Joyce Alexander also confirmed the crash, putting the casualty figure at five.

  • Soludo tasks corps employers on bridging communication gaps with NYSC

    Soludo tasks corps employers on bridging communication gaps with NYSC

    Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has urged employers of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to bridge existing communication gaps with the scheme.

    The governor gave the advice at the 2025 NYSC/Corps Employers’ Workshop themed, ‘Strengthening NYSC/Corps Employers Partnership for Improved Mutual Benefits.’ 

    Soludo, represented by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Engr. Dr. Martin Agbili applauded NYSC for organizing what he called “a timely and transformative event.”

    Read Also: Yakubu commends Soludo for boosting security in Anambra

     “It is an opportunity to reflect on our roles in mentoring corps members, to share experiences, address challenges, and explore ways to fully harness their potential for greater national impact.

     “I commend the NYSC for this laudable initiative and appreciate the effort put into convening stakeholders toward a common national goal,” he said.

     Director General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier-General Olakunle Nafiu, expressed worry over what he termed lack of commitment of corps’ employers to their avowed responsibilities.  

  • Anambra gov to stakeholders: Rotation of governorship real

    Anambra gov to stakeholders: Rotation of governorship real

    Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, says, the rotation of governorship positions in Anambra State is real.

     He said this Saturday at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka that after his second term in office, it would be the turn of Anambra Central Senatorial Zone.

    Addressing a mammoth crowd of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), from the Central Senatorial Zone, who staged a rally to endorse his reelection, said those trying to unseat him are people looking to raise funds not to challenge him

    Read Also: Court fixes Nov. 25 for ex-Anambra Governor Obiano’s trial

     “What I’ve already done within three years of my administration speaks for me and my reelection is sacrosanct because I’ve not seen anybody contesting against me.

    “The rotation of governorship started after former Governor, Mr Peter Obi, when someone from the North zone took over before me from the South Senatorial Zone and it will go round.

  • Cross River launches grant for retirees

    Cross River launches grant for retirees

    The Cross River State Government, under Governor Senator Bassey Otu, has launched a significant initiative to empower its senior citizens. 

    Through the Retiree Entrepreneurship Development Initiative (REDI), a substantial ₦250 million in grants has been disbursed to 500 retirees, marking a new chapter of economic inclusion. 

    Each beneficiary received ₦500,000 to establish small and micro-scale businesses, a strategic move aimed at re-engaging retirees as active contributors to the state’s economy. 

    The official launch, held in Calabar, underscores the administration’s “People First” agenda, prioritizing human capital development and sustainable livelihoods.

    Governor Otu described REDI as an “expanded reciprocity,” acknowledging the invaluable service of retirees. 

    He emphasized that the initiative not only provides financial support but also crucial entrepreneurial training, aligning with his administration’s commitment to ensuring retirees remain economically relevant. 

    This initial disbursement is just the first phase, with subsequent phases planned for the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts. 

    READ ALSO; Massive turnout, unity mark successful NUJ FCT 2025 press week

    Retirees will also have access to soft loans facilitated by the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (CRSMEDA), further solidifying the government’s long-term support.

    The Otu administration has made retiree welfare a top priority since taking office. 

    This commitment is evident in the prompt payment of monthly pensions and the significant reduction of a 14-year backlog of unpaid gratuities to just four years.

    Furthermore, the enactment of the Cross River State Senior Citizens Centre Law will lead to the establishment of specialized wellness and support centers, demonstrating a holistic approach to caring for senior citizens. 

    These actions collectively highlight the administration’s dedication to building a prosperous and resilient state for all.

    the Director General of CRSMEDA, Mr. Great Ogban, who played a pivotal role in the success of REDI, described it as a transformative pillar of Governor Otu’s “People First” vision. 

    He highlighted the successful graduation of 500 retirees from an intensive entrepreneurship training program that preceded the grant disbursement. 

    Ogban emphasized that this initiative goes beyond financial empowerment, serving as a catalyst for economic regeneration, with each new business expected to create jobs and stimulate local economies. 

    Looking ahead, CRSMEDA plans to train and empower an additional 1,000 retirees in the next phase, amplifying the program’s economic impact across the state.

    The positive reception from beneficiaries, such as Mrs. Florence Oluohu who expressed profound gratitude for a “new lease of life,” underscores the program’s immediate impact. 

    The event garnered widespread commendation from various stakeholders, recognizing REDI as a remarkable demonstration of strategic compassion and sustainable governance. 

    This landmark initiative by the Otu-led administration firmly establishes its commitment to rebuilding Cross River State by upholding the dignity and recognizing the enduring contributions of all its citizens, past and present.

  • 2027: South-east group donates N200m for Tinubu’s presidential form, campaign activities

    2027: South-east group donates N200m for Tinubu’s presidential form, campaign activities

    A political support group, South East Renewed Hope Agenda (SERHA), has presented a N200 million cheque to support the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. The fund is earmarked for the purchase of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential nomination form and other campaign logistics.

    The announcement was made in Owerri, Imo State, on Saturday during the inauguration and empowerment programme of the state chapter of SERHA. 

    National Coordinator of the group, Hon. Amb. Belusochukwu M. Enwere, said the move affirms the group’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and grassroots mobilization across the South-East.

    “As ambassadors of Renewed Hope, we are committed to working towards the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027,” Enwere declared. 

    “Today, we demonstrate this commitment by presenting a cheque of N200 million for the nomination form and campaign logistics.”

    Enwere described President Tinubu as a “performing leader” who has focused on infrastructure, education, and inclusive governance. 

    He highlighted the $3 billion Eastern Rail Line project as a landmark federal investment aimed at boosting regional connectivity, reducing transport costs, and addressing long-standing infrastructural neglect in the South-East.

    The group also praised the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), which is expected to drive regional development through erosion control, road construction, and other economic projects.

    Enwere commended notable figures from Imo State, including the late Chief Sam Mbakwe and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, and lauded Governor Hope Uzodinma for implementing developmental initiatives under his 3R Agenda.

    As part of its empowerment drive, SERHA distributed items such as motorcycles, mini buses, sewing machines, hairdressing kits, and cash to local residents to encourage self-reliance.

    The Owerri event concluded SERHA’s South-East tour, with the group set to begin visits to all 95 local government areas and 2,344 wards across the region in August to mobilize support for President Tinubu.

    “This is Southern Nigeria’s turn to complete our eight years. The South-East will not relent in ensuring Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” Enwere stated.

    The event drew political stakeholders, community leaders, and supporters from across the region, underscoring the growing momentum behind Tinubu’s 2027 campaign in the South-East.