The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southeast report

  • Polio: Enugu flags off immunisation in 17 LGAs

    The Enugu State government has flagged its 1st Round of the 2019 National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDS) programme in all the 17 Local Government Areas of the state to tackle polio and other preventable childhood diseases among children.

    The Executive Secretary, Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. George Ugwu, disclosed  during the flagging off ceremony  that the immunization exercise, organized by the state in collaboration with other partners, was part of ongoing measures to rejig primary health care delivery and stamp out polio at the grassroots in the state.

    He further revealed that already, the State’s Primary Health Care Development Agency has employed thousands of doctors and other health workers; and has deployed them to various primary health care centres to ensure the success of the programme.

    “Our state was rated the best in immunisation services some time ago. It is in our bid to retain that position that we are gathered here today to flag off another round of immunisation for our children,” he said.

    He maintained that the fact that the governor took part in the exercise himself gave it the legitimacy it deserved.

    ”We are out to ensure, together with our partners that there is no single case of polio in Enugu State and the entire Nigeria.”

    He requested: “We want parents and caregivers to make available children within the age of 0-5 because the vaccines we shall be giving them are safe and effective.”

    He thanked the governor for his efforts to improve the health care delivery in the state, especially, the primary health care, noting that primary health care is everything.

    “If we do not get our primary health care sector right, we cannot get the other sectors right. Many of our people are living in villages and they depend completely on these primary health care for survival.”

    He further noted that it is good that the Federal and state governments as well as other concerned agencies were working to improve the state of the primary health care sector.

    Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi stated that the NIPDS is a bi annual polio immunisation exercise designed to hold in the entire states of the federation and the FCT with a view to ensuring that children from 0-5 years are protected from Polio infection.

    Read Also: Lagos seeks support for polio immunisation

    He commended the Federal government, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency led by the executive secretary, Dr. George Ugwu for their efforts in ensuring the eradication of polio in the country.

    According to him, his administration was not only determined to ensure the complete eradication of polio in Enugu state but was already taking pro-active measures to ensure that the menace does not recur in the state.

    While calling on all mothers and child care givers in the state to take full advantage of this opportunity and other immunisation initiatives, he assured all concerned bodies of his continued support and corporation towards the full realization of this all important objective.

    The Permanent Secretary, Enugu State Ministry of Health; Dr. Ifeanyi Agugiobi recalled that it has been eleven years ago since Enugu State recorded its last case of polio and expressed  joy “that the Great Health Reformist in the person of Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Enugu State Governor has maintained the status quo of “Free-Polio-Enugu State.”

    He further acknowledged the efforts and zeal of the “Brand New Executive Secretary” of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency; Dr. George Ugwu for providing an enabling environment for the Ministry and all its partners to deliver these services to the public.

    The Chief of Field office for UNICEF in Enugu, Dr. Ibrahim Kalim Kante, while congratulating Ugwuanyi on his re-emergence for a second term said the governor has made adequate health care delivery a top priority of his administration.

    Noting that polio has remained a global issue, he said Nigeria in general has done well in eradicating it and this is because of the extent of efforts state governors have put into tackling the menace and protecting the lives of children.

    “The fact that the governor is here himself is a show of his level of commitment to delivering quality healthcare and we  want to assure him of our continued support to ensure that the health of women and children of the state are properly taken care of,” he said.

    He added: “Ugwuanyi has been making efforts to ensure that the improved health indices of the state are very good.

    Dedicating his deputy governor to be in charge of primary health care delivery in the state has yielded good results.”

    The Enugu State Coordinator, World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Ada Enyinna, said that despite being a polio free state, some children have not been reached and as such remain unimmunised.

    She encouraged the state to continue to strengthen all activities that will help her maintain a routine immunization status of 85% of all antigens from outreaches in communities and ensuring regular and adequate supply of vaccines.

  • Two die, four injured on Onitsha bad road

    Tragedy struck in Onitsha, Anambra State when two persons lost their lives while four others sustained injuries after an articulated vehicle fell on a tricycle in the commercial city of the state.

    The ugly incident which occurred around 10 am along Obodoukwu Junction by Onitsha-Owerri road, involved three tricycles and a shuttle bus said to be loading passengers along the road.

    The incident which was blamed on the deplorable condition of the section of the road, left the victims trapped till about 1pm before they were later confirmed dead.

    The deceased, middle-aged man and woman apparently left home that morning in search for daily bread without knowing they would never return to their loved ones.

    For the three hours the victims were under the debris, efforts were being made to offload the content of the heavy container.

    The Nation gathered that the firm handling the construction of second Niger bridge later arrived the scene after several calls with a heavy duty crane that lifted the container.

    Those who witnessed the accident attributed it to the poor condition of the road.

    They called on both the federal and state governments to urgently repair the failed portions of the road to save lives of innocent citizens.

    One of them, Nkemjika Asumugha, said three tricycles and one shuttle bus were loading along the ever busy road when the trailer carrying a container fell on them.

    Another respondent, Emmanuel Izunwanne who described the incident as unfortunate, blamed it on poor condition of the road.

    “After the incident occurred, sympathisers who rushed to the scene, managed to rescue some of the lucky ones who were seriously injured but not dead.

    “The injured persons in critical conditions were rushed to various hospitals for medical attention,” he added.

    Combined team of the Red Cross Society, Security agents including the police, Federal Road Safety Corps, Anambra State Traffic Management Agency offered assistance and cordoned off the entire area from onlookers and sympathizers.

    The state sector commander, FRSC, Mr Andrew Kumapayi said the trailer driver lost control of his vehicle following the deplorable condition of the road.

    He said, “The poor condition of the road caused the trailer driver to lose control of his vehicle which caused the container to fall on the three tricycles.”

    He warned tricycle operators to always ensure they parked properly and stay away from loading along the expressway to avoid such disasters.

    Also reacting, leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Uchenna Madu attributed the cause of the accident to bad road.

    He said, “The Onitsha Owerri road and other portions of road in South East are begging for attention because of long neglect.

    “We are advising Igbo governors to emulate former governor of Anambra state, Mr Peter Obi in rehabilitation of federal roads.

    “The current Igbo governors must start rehabilitating the federal roads in their respective states.

    “It is the Ndigbo that are suffering and dying on those federal death trap roads.”

     

  • Flood ravages Imo communities

    No fewer than 15 communities are flooded in Imo State, leaving residents in agony as Governor Emeka Ihedioha calls for lasting solution. OKODILI NDIDI reports

    Wading through the flood that has already risen to waist level was a forlorn-looking old man likely in his mid-80s. Slightly bent and shaking from the cold occasioned by long exposure to rain and floodwater that has taken over what used to be his home, he tried to put on a smile before a delegation of interventionist agencies including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Imo State Emergency Management Agency led by the member representing Ohaji-Egbema-Oguta-Oru West Federal Constituency, Hon. Kingsley Uju.

    The feigned smile, however, could not conceal the agony of losing his home and his crops to the ravaging flood that has completely submerged his community, Orsu Obodo in Oguta Council Area of Imo State. The look on his face told the whole story. At last, barely above whispers, he said, “Help me, I have lost everything and I don’t know where to go from here. The flood this year is massive, I was not prepared; I lost my crops and fish farm.”

    The above picture captures the plight of residents of the 15 flooded communities in Imo State. The flood has ravaged Ohaji-Egbema and Oguta Council Areas of the state, submerging two hundred homes and displacing six thousand people, among them, women and children. Scores of farmers in the various farm settlements were also trapped.

    According to some of the victims, the flooding of the communities along the coastline has become almost an annual occurrence but was more devastating this year.

    When The Nation visited some of the affected communities, where used to be homes and roads have been completely submerged in the flood.

    At Nmahu community, dejected fish farmers pointed at the ruins of their once flourishing farms. Tearfully, they gave graphic accounts of how a pre-dawn rain wreaked havoc in the community, “the rain started at about 3am that fateful Sunday like every other day but after a couple of hours, we were driven out of our homes by the rushing flood.”

    One of the residents, Princewill Ogor, said, “We are totally devastated and we have nowhere to go, our farms have been washed away and we lost our fish ponds. The children are all sick and the only health centre we have is now submerged, we don’t know what to do, we are waiting for the government to intervene otherwise we are finished.”

    Reacting to the plight of the flood victims, member representing Ohaji-Egbema/Oguta/Oru West Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Kingsley Uju, has appealed to the Federal and Imo State Governments, as well as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other interventionist agencies to rescue and resettle trapped farmers in the 15 flooded communities in State.

    According to him, women and children are also in dire need of urgent attention as health challenges have scaled up in the area following the flood.

    He raised the alarm that if urgent measures were not taken, there could be humanitarian crisis and epidemic in the area.

    The lawmaker, who was on assessment tour of the affected communities in Ohaji-Egbema and Oguta council areas, said 15 communities have been submerged so far, with over 6000 people displaced.

    Uju, accompanied on the tour by officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), also disclosed that various farm settlements have been swept away by the flood, adding that some of the farmers were still trapped in the flood.

    According to him, the few health centres in the affected communities are currently overwhelmed.

    “What you are seeing is a major disaster,” he said. “The health centres cannot manage the crisis. From the assessment so far, 15 communities have been submerged and over 6000 persons displaced from their homes. The farmers are forced to harvest their premature crops, we need urgent attention to forestall humanitarian crisis.

    “I am calling on the FG and NEMA to come to the aid of my people, as you can see they have lost their homes, businesses, farms and other forms of livelihood to the flood. Some of the farmers are still trapped in the flood.

    “The flood is caused each time the River Niger and the Orashi River surge as a result of the rains and then that happens, all the communities along the coastline will be flooded. This issue of flooding has become an annual occurrence but it seems to be worse this year. Something need to be done to find a permanent solution to the problem like the construction of shore embankment to save the communities along the shoreline.”

    He enjoined the people to remain calm, assuring that their plight will be brought before the relevant authority for prompt intervention.

    Meanwhile, the flood victims who recounted their losses, appealed to the lawmaker to bring their plight before the requisite authorities, lamenting that they have been abandoned to their fate.

    A fish farmer whose farm was washed away by the flood, Mr. Bonadventure Nzoma, said that he lost over N11million to the flood.

    He disclosed that he lost over 3,000 fishes including fingerlings and crocodiles when his farm was submerged.

    The Head, Imo/AbiaAbia Operations Office  of NEMA, Evans Ugoh, attributed the the flood to the topographic nature of the communities surrounded by the Orashi river and Oguta lake.

    He said, “We have been on assessment of the flood in the last two weeks that it started, from the reports, 15 communities have been completely submerged along the coastline, it happens every other year but it is massive this year. We are advising those in affected communities to evacuate to forestall possible casualties.

    “After the assessment, we will do our report and relief materials and other forms of assistance will be sent to the victims.”

    Meanwhile, worried by the level of devastation caused by the flood in the state, Governor Emeka Ihedioha has rallied professionals and experts in the state to brainstorm how to tackle the menace.

    The governor, who presided over a meeting between the government and the leadership of various professional bodies in the state, constituted a task team headed by Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie with a charge to articulate implementable plans to address the menace of flooding and erosion.

    Addressing members of the bodies which include; Nigeria Society of Engineers, Institute of Architects, landscape architects, surveyors, town planners, quantity surveyors, environmentalists, the governor said, “This meeting is imperative as it will enable us to review where we are, the status of flooding in Owerri and other parts of the state and planned solution, which require holistic discussion with stakeholders. We consider it important to carry everybody along so that people will understand what we are doing and where we are going.”

  • Ban on prayers in Anambra markets sparks controversy

    Reactions have continued to trail the recent ban on prayers in all markets across Anambra State by the Anambra State Amalgamated traders Association (ASMATA).

    The announcement by the new chairman of the body, Chief Ikechukwu Ekwegbalu had triggered wide spread criticisms particularly among Christian denominations across the state.

    Those who spoke to The Nation on the development expressed divergent views over the order.

    While some described it as a step in the right direction, others said it was a handiwork of some occultic groups to unleash terror and mayhem on the traders, claiming the prayers were adversely affecting their businesses.

    Read Also: Anambra traders threaten legal action over ejection

    A cleric, Pastor Raymond Momah of the All Believers Assembly, Okpoko, however described the ban as a war between the children of God and the devil.

    “The battle is on and we will know who among us is serving the living God,” he asserted.

    An authordox clergymen who spoke on the condition of anonymity, was of the view that the measure was in the interest of everybody as the privilege was being grossly abused.

    “The intention is no longer to win souls for christ but for stomach infrastructure. I commend the government for that noble action,” he added.

    An industrialist, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka described the ban as a welcome development, stressing that the prayers were detrimental to the state economy as it scared visiting traders from the markets.

    Ezeonwuka, who is one of the patrons of ASMATA, maintained that the prayers not only constituted noise pollution, but a nuisance in the system.

    He said, “Market prayers are not only time consuming which irritate and frustrate visiting traders but also constitute noise pollution and other elements of nuisance in the system.

    “It also scares visiting traders from the neighbourhood and across the country from coming to the commercial city of Onitsha in particular to buy or sell goods to the detriment of the economy of Anambra State.

    “Market daily prayer is a fallacy. The best form of prayer is to work hard and to be honest. To work is to pray. You are as good as praying when you are working tirelessly.”

    According to the businessman, the time the traders devoted to prayers were better channeled to clearing and cleaning the market environment.

    “Cleanliness is next to godliness. These traders don’t know this, that is why they spend much time on prayers and end up scaring away those willing to patronise their businesses.

    “Market prayers on daily or weekly basis are harming the economy of the state because a lot of people who normally come to Onitsha to do businesses have diverted to other places.

    “If you budget two hours for a trip and end up spending five hours won’t you be irritated and frustrated? Won’t you find alternative?”

    On its part, the State government however said it did not instruct anybody or group of persons in whatever capacity to ban prayers in the markets as speculated in some quarters and published in some media.

    Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Wealth Creation, Dr. Christian Madubuko, said the state government did not ban prayers in the markets but directed that the prayers be regulated and organised with decorum.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Anambra shops for partners on healthcare delivery

    The Anambra State government has expressed its readiness to partner with the private sector towards revamping its health care system.

    Commissioner for Health, Dr. Vincent Okpala dropped the hint when members of Akpo Development Association (ADA) in Aguata Local Government Area of the state paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Awka.

    He said efficient service delivery and governance were among the six major building blocks a functional health care system was predicted on.

    He said the goal of government was to create diverse medical tourisms in view of the funds released by the Federal Government in the tune of over $2billion annually.

    “Health care system based on the World Health Organisation (WHO) definition has six building blocks which include service delivery and governance and leadership.

    “In Anambra State for example, we have 34 general hospitals and we want people to assist the government to optimise care in these hospitals,” he said.

    According to Okpala, there were lots of diaspora physicians from the state willing to come home, but were looking forward to a government not just ready to show leadership, but create enabling environment for them to invest.

    Read Also: ‘Clinical governance will boost healthcare outcomes’

    He said, “We’re trying to sponsor a policy on Private Public Partnership. We’re already negotiating with consultants who had worked with the World Bank and WHO with a legislative backing that will outlive this government.

    “Once these investors know you have a political backing, they don’t have any other option but to come in.

    “I’m happy that our state is the safest state in the federation, and I’m also excited to be working with a principal who doesn’t take the issue of security lightly.”

    The commissioner further revealed that his first few weeks of assumption was visits to health facilities across the state with a view to accessing their states for immediate interventions.

    His words, “My background is emergency medicine. The first thing you do at accident scene is “scene size up” which means to understand what you’ll dealing with.

    “My visit to the health institutions in the state is to get firsthand information on the real situation of the facilities.

    “The goal is to access their true situations, evaluate, strategise and find ways of deploying interventions.”

    Earlier, the leader of the delegation and President General of the Association, Nze Henry Caius Dim, said they were at the commissioner’s office to congratulate him on his new appointment which he described as not only timely, but well deserved.

    He urged him to take advantage of his tenure to better the lots of the health sector in their community and the state in general, including upgrading of the existing health facilities.

  • Fed Govt solar-powers Ekwueme varsity

    An expansive 2.6MW solar power plant initiated by the Federal Government has been inaugurated by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, underlining the vigour with which the government is implementing its renewable off-grid energy plan. OGOCHUKWU ANIOKE writes

    When Vice President Yemi Osinbajo arrived in Ebonyi State on Friday, August 2, it was a jubilant crowd that received him. He was coming to launch an ambitious renewable, off-grid solar power plant that would change the ambience of Alex Ekwueme Federal University located in Ndufu-Alike Ikwo in the state.

    Power shortfall has plagued the country for decades. Every administration talks about solutions but most pay lip-service to it.

    The determination of the Muhammadu Buhari administration to make a difference and provide uninterrupted electricity for Nigerian students through off-grid power is yielding fruit. That was why Ebonyi stood still for the Vice-President who led other dignitaries to the inauguration of the 2.8MW solar hybrid power plant at the institution.

    The multi-beneficial project is the first to be inaugurated in the 37 universities and seven affiliated teaching hospitals under its Energising Education Programme (EEP), which was implemented by Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

    Energising Education Programme is a Federal Government intervention which focuses on developing off-grid, dedicated and independent power plants, as well as rehabilitating existing distribution infrastructure to supply clean, reliable power and renewable energy.

    With this laudable achievement, over 7,700 students and 1,819 members of faculty staff at FUNAI will have access to clean reliable energy. The programme will improve the quality of education, research and health care services at the federal universities and teaching hospitals across the country.

    The inauguration culminated in the graduation  of 20 all-female Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) participants who received  certificates of completion for renewable energy training, launch of 7.5 KM of solar-powered street lights for illumination and safety as well as a world-class training centre for renewable energy.

    FUNAI is one of the Energising Education Programme Phase 1 university projects that will deliver clean and sustainable energy to nine federal universities and one university teaching hospital, using solar hybrid and/or gas-fired captive power plants.

    Among the dignitaries present at the unveiling ceremony were representatives of Chancellor of the institution and Alake of Egba land, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo , former governor of Ebonyi State, Chief Martins Elechi, politicians, law enforcement agencies and traditional rulers among others.

    The multi-million naira solar  power plant under EPP boasts state-of-the-art facilities such as  2.8MW  first solar hybrid power plant, 8 MWH  capacity battery bank, inverters and power panel, world-class training centre and transformers is the outcome of collaboration between the Rural Electrification Agency, Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, the Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Universities Commission, and executed by Sterling and Wilson, a solutions and services provider noted for provision of quality business solutions for solar, wind energy, transmission and distribution, hybrid energy storage and turnkey data centres to organisations across the world.

    Reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment towards bringing positive change to the education system through its Next Level agenda, guest of honour and Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) said  the project would  provide sustainable decentralised energy to the entire campus, improve education and create a better university experience for both students and staff.

    He said: “Gone are the days when students read at night with candles, lanterns and torches. Our young people are willing to learn and they have great aspirations. It is our duty to aid them to accomplish their goals by providing an environment conducive to teaching and learning for them.

    “I am glad to be a part of this great feat. As additional components of this remarkable project, we are also inaugurating a renewables workshop/training centre to promote renewable energy training and installed over 7.5KM of street lighting to enhance security and safety within FUNAI campus.

    “Our students will not only reap the benefits of clean, reliable and affordable electricity, they will also receive hands-on training on renewable energy which can be applied beyond the walls of this university.”

    Commending the Federal Government’s efforts in promoting and encouraging women, Osinbajo praised Damilola Ogunbiyi-led administration at Rural Electrification Agency for initiating female STEM internship under energising education programme.

    “We hope that this experience will inspire them to undertake STEM-related careers, including careers as engineers and project managers. I congratulate all of them on this great achievement.”

    Emphasising the government’s assurance not to rest on its oars until electricity becomes accessible to every Nigerian student, Osinbajo stressed that the multi-beneficial project would last for the next four years as the train of progress moves to Bayero University Kano (BUK), Kano State and Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State where it would inaugurate another projects over the next couple of months.”

    He commended Damilola Ogunbiyi, who heads the Rural Electrification Agency for her commitment and dynamism.

    In her remarks, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rural Electrification Agency, Damilola Ogunbiyi said it was a great pleasure to inaugurate the pioneer project under the Energising Education Programme.

    Stating the importance of the project under EEP, Ogunbiyi noted that everyone recognises that the youth are the most important resource for future socio-economic development.  With this in mind and fully aligned with this administration’s Next Level roadmap, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the Energising Education Programme (EEP) which was conceptualised by the immediate past Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) in 2016.

    Ogunbiyi said the agency was meant to provide  reliable, affordable and sustainable power to 37 federal universities and seven teaching hospitals through solar hybrid and gas-fired power plant solutions, rehabilitation of existing distribution infrastructure, installation of street lights for illumination and improved security on the campuses of the benefiting universities and construction of training centres to train students on renewable energy technology.

    “The first phase comprises nine federal universities and one teaching hospital, which cut across six geo-political zones of Nigeria. It is fully funded by the Federal Government. This project in FUNAI is the first to be inaugurated.

    “EEP projects in Bayero University, Kano State and Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, in Delta State, will follow with their inaugurations scheduled for the next couple of months.

    “The project is a testament to this administration’s commitment to increase energy access, promote use of renewable energy solutions, improve the quality of education within secure and safe learning environments, empower female students and create jobs. The solar hybrid power plant being inaugurated has a total installed capacity of 2.8MW, which will result in 8,139,208Ibs of annual carbon dioxide savings.”

    Ogunbiyi thanked the United Kingdom (UK) Department for International Development through its Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility and Policy Development Facility programmes for providing technical assistance in the development and implementation of the EEP,  Sterling and Wilson, and sub-contractors for their dedication and commitment towards the successful implementation of the project, the Vice-Chancellor and his management team for providing support throughout the course of this project,  Board, Management and Zonal Coordinators of the Rural Electrification Agency, for their strategic roles and contributions in making the project a success, National Universities Commission and the President Buhari-led administration for the opportunity to be part of such an impactful and transformational endeavour.”

    Appreciating the Federal Government for locating the project in his state, Ebonyi State Governor Dave Umahi said he was elated and thrilled that this achievement is happening in Ebonyi State.

    “Ebonyi State is committed to ensuring that high quality education is accessible to all – an education that produces driven, skilled and talented professionals that will be the engine for our growth and development. There is no better way to do this than having access to educational facilities powered by reliable clean energy.

    “I assure you that the people of Ebonyi State will do our best to support this project to ensure greater success and sustainability. Its impact goes beyond improving quality of education as it has also provided a total of 108 jobs for those who are indigenous to Ebonyi State and will create more during the operation and maintenance of this project. We look forward to witnessing the Federal Government replicate the project that will improve the quality of education, the economy and lives of Nigerians in other areas,” he said.

    Expressing his institution’s gratitude to the Federal Government for the gesture, FUNAI Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chinedum  Nwajiuba said it was a privilege that FUNAI is one of the flagship learning institutions paving the way.

    “You may be unaware, but Ebonyi State used to be among one of the educationally disadvantaged states.  But over the past eight years since the establishment of this university, we have grown by leaps and bounds. We have developed a learning and research centre that offers students the latest in computer technology, new library facilities and a sports village.

    “We are also the first to have solar hybrid power plant to be inaugurated at a Federal University in Nigeria in addition to a renewable energy workshop/training centre and streetlights across the entire university,” he stated.

    Corroborating the views of others, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education Sonny Echono said, ”Good education has the power to change life. Education empowers minds to be able to conceive good thoughts and ideas. Combined with technologies that continue to develop at breakneck speed, the result is a world that has the want and the means to learn at scale.

    “The challenge, therefore, is not just about providing access to education, but also ensuring progress in improving the quality thereof. This is why the Ministry of Education is so enthused by the success of this project. Not only does the project mean that students can now enjoy reliable and clean power, they are also afforded the opportunity to further their professional development by participating in real-life type work activities in the workshop/training centre.

    The Head, Special Project, Rural Electrification Project, Anita Otubu thanked  President Buhari  and his Vice, Prof. Osinbajo for their zeal and commitment to increase electricity access and improve the quality of university education in the country.”

    For Kalu Oluchi, a 200 level Agriculture undergraduate and Ogah Affiong, a 300 level Mechatronics undergraduate who were among the 20 all-female STEM participants who received certificates of completion for renewable energy training, it was a wonderful experience. Kalu said: “As an agriculturist, my participation in the programme was an eye opener as it has broadened my horizon. I think I have ventured into another area. I see my future in the energy sector.”

    Ogah said, “This programme is first of its kind in any university in Nigeria. It has been a wonderful experience. I got some knowledge about how solar energy operates. I see myself tilting my career towards the energy sector.”

  • Alor community in Anamabra elects new leaders

    The Alor Community Development Union (ADU) in Idemili  South Local Government of Anambra State has elected new executives to run the affairs of the community for a three-year tenure.

    The election held on Sunday was conducted by Chief John Obiekwe and Ichie Sunday Omakagu witness by Chief Uzoma Igbonwa President of Alor People’s Assembly, Ichie Godwin Nwaoye and Ichie Samuel Udoh among others.

    The newly elected officers include: Chief Anene Ngige – Chairman, Chief Obum Obiudoh- Vice-Chairman, Mr Chimezie Ukatu-Secretary, Mr Obiora Udoh-Assistant Secretary, Chief Abuchi Igweama- Social/Publicty secrtary, Mr Emmanuel Udodinma Asst.Social/Publicity Secrtary, Mr Chibuike Nwaoye- Financial Secretary, Bro.Tochukwu Uzochukwu -Asst.Secretary Financial, Mr Ikechukwu Anichebe-Treasurer, Mr Chijoke Akubue- Provost 1,Mr Norbert Ngige and Mr Azubugo Igwe-were provosts respectively.

    Speaking at the election venue at Alor Christian Community center Alafia Lagos, Chief Anene Ngige tasked the elected officials to adhere strictly to the rules and regulations guiding the Union

    Read Also: Court okays conduct of Alor community election

    He warned the officials to avoid unconstitutional activities as such may not be to their interest or that of the community they were elected to serve. He stressed that anybody found wanting will be prosecuted accordingly.

    Chief Ngige emphasised the need for peace and harmour with our fellow brothers.

    Speaking after the peaceful election, the Vice-Chairman, Chief Obum Obiudoh on behalf of other newly elected officers assured that the team will contribute meaningfully to the growth of the community. He sought for cooperation of the members, pointing out that the task ahead should be seen and regarded as everybody’s affairs, just as he requested for adequate and regular support from the immediate past chairman

    “On behalf of all newly elected executive, I want to assure the community of our commitment and dedication towards the progress of all. We are not going to disappoint you, because for electing us, you must have seen some qualities in us,” he stated.

    “We are equally using this opportunity to call on the immediate past executive and other stakeholders in the community that we shall need your support, we can’t do it alone, but with you all, we shall have breakthrough,” the Vice- chairman added.

  • Flood: Imo rejigs monthly clean-up plan

    The last time Imo State was flooded, residents suffered multiple losses. This time, under the Emeka Ihedioha administration, proactive measures are taken to minimise damages. OKODILI NDIDI reports

    Imo, one of the flood-prone states, as indicated by statistics released by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), is already contending with the fury of nature. The rains, true to forecast, have been breaking every human barrier and submerging homes, farmlands and roads.

    But the state has risen to the occasion. Many measures have been taken to curtail the rampaging flood and clear the state of filth and waste that had literally taken over the state with its attendant environmental and health hazards.

    Most significant among the steps taken so far to tackle the menace and clean up the state, is the monthly environmental sanitation exercise which has been reinvigorated.

    Granted, across the country, every last Saturday of the month between the hours of 8am to 10am is set aside for sanitation but the exercise in Imo State is no longer business as usual. The state government is now fully committed to ensuring that the monthly sanitation exercise is not just a mere ritual.

    A review of the July edition of the exercise showed the seriousness attached to cleaning up the state by the government. The Committee for July sanitation exercise was headed by a former governor of the state, Ikedi Ohakim, while the state Commissioner of Police, Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze and other heads of security agencies were members.

    The governor of the state, Emeka Ihedioha, on the day, defied the early morning rain to flag off the exercise. To demonstrate that the exercise was not a mere publicity stunt, the governor participated fully by helping to scoop dirt and waste from drainages into wheelbarrows to the admiration of his aides, who had no option but to join in the exercise.

    Similarly, across the 27 Local Government Areas of the state, Council Chairmen and other top government officials mobilised for the exercise and the result was not below expectation.

    It turnout was unprecedented as various volunteer groups came out to participate in the cleanup exercise without any form of coercion.

    The governor said that his participation as a demonstration of his commitment towards making the state the cleanest and healthiest in the country.

    Speaking during the exercise, Ihedioha, who distributed refuse bins to residents in Owerri, disclosed that his administration is poised to reclaim its position as the cleanest state in the country.

    He commended residents for coming out in their numbers to participate in the exercise and urged them to sustain the renewed spirit of keeping their environment clean, while stressing the inherent benefits of a healthy environment.

    The governor commended the Chief Ikedi Ohakim led Sanitation Committee for a job well done and assured that the exercise will continue to receive the necessary support from his administration, “until the lost glory of the state is restored”.

    According to him, “I am happy that this exercise from the reports we are getting across the state, is a huge success and we urge everyone to continue in this renewed spirit. We understand the importance of a clean environment. Aside the health benefits, it encourages commercial activities. This exercise is deliberately designed, such that the Brigade Commander is leading the team in Okigwe zone, while the Commissioner of Police is leading the team in the entire Orlu zone, with the stakeholders in these areas actively involved.

    “The commitment that has been demonstrated by our people gladdens my heart. Interestingly legislature, judiciary, civil servants, security agencies, students, market women and traders, the youths, religious leaders and the traditional rulers are all involved in today’s exercise. We are also working towards tackling the flooding in the Owerri and other parts of the state”.

    Chairman of the Imo State Planning, Sensitisation and Implementation Committee on the Cleanup and Sanitation and former governor, Ikedi Ohakim, disclosed that the government engaged over 470 trucks and 120 pail-loaders as well as over 5000 volunteers for the exercise across the state.

    He expressed satisfaction with the level of compliance, adding that the present government has shown capacity to rebuild the state and promised that more work will be done to recover the environment once the rain stops.

    According to him, “the Governor Ihedioha is poised to rewarding hardwork and commitment to the exercise through the Governor’s Prize.

    On his part, Hon. Alex Emeziem, Secretary of the Committee and Special Adviser Environment and Sanitation and General Manager, Imo ENTRACO, expressed great delight at the level of success the exercise recorded across the state.

    He disclosed that the Governor Ihedioha led administration is committed to ensuring that the exercise is sustained for the overall good of the people and urged the continued cooperation of the entire citizens.

    Similarly, the governor in furtherance of efforts to cushion the environmental challenges has set up a committee to tackle the flooding of the Imo State University.

    The governor during a tour of the University to ascertain the extent of the flood, urged  the institution to ensure a clean environment at all time.

    He lamented the menace flooding in the campus and the Owerri capital city, assuring that steps are being taken to mitigate the menace.

    “I have come for an assessment of the university, to see state of infrastructure and facillites. My attention has been drawn to the manace of flood within the campus which I consider a huge threat. I have gone round and seen some buildings submerged by flood.

    “We will arrest the problem of flooding here and in Owerri in general. To this effect, I have directed the Vice Chancellor, to set up a team of engineers in the university to identify the root cause so as to tackle the issue”.

     

  • Foundation donates bus shelter, motorbikes to Anambra community

    A non-governmental organisation, Ishimiri Ogbunka Global Foundation has donated an ultramodern bus stand to the people of Agbala village, Ogbunka in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

    The foundation also handed over two new motorbikes to the community’s town crier and youth leader, while a public address system was given to a repentant youth for evangelism.

    Another individual also received N45, 000; five got N29,000 each, while five others got N5000 each.

    Speaking during the official presentation of the structure and other items to the community, the Director of the foundation, Engr. Richard Okonkwo said the gesture was in fulfilment of his promise to God.

    Okonkwo, represented by his elder brother, Mr. Ugonna Francis Okonkwo, said the foundation was also a pledge he made before his sojourn abroad.

    He said, “I promised God when I was about to travel out of the country that if he blessed the work of my hands, I will set up a foundation in my hometown through which I would be adding value to lives.

    “I’m only fulfilling the pact I made with God early in life, to use whatever God gives him for the betterment of my community.”

    Receiving the items on behalf of the community, Chairman, Orumba South Local Government Area, Mr. Raymond Onyeagu, a lawyer, commended the benefactor for the gesture.

    He said, “The state government holds to very high esteem persons like Engr. Okonkwo  who assist the government in her bid to provide basic amenities to people at the grassroots.”

    He noted that the bus stand was the first of its kind in the community.

    On his part, President General of the community, Hon. Emmanuel Okoro described Okonkwo as one of the Ogbunka sons of the community, who had continued to touch lives of the people.

    “Before now, it used to be difficult to wait for bus, keke Napep or okada along this road because of rainfall or sun. We had no single shelter on the road of Ogbunka,” he said.

    The youth leader of Agbala village, Clement Nnebe, and the village town crier, Chukwuemelie Okoli, recounted the hardship they were subjected to while carrying out their duties.

    “I’ve been finding it difficult serving the village on foot. But with this new bike, my work is made easier,” Okoli said.

  • NEMA inspires hope in Abia war-torn community

    A team of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) visited the people of Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State to access the damage caused by the perennial communal crisis with their Cross River State counterparts. The visit could bring an end to the hostilities, reports SUNNY NWANKWO

    Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia shares a boundary with Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    Over the years, the two communities which were supposed to be living in peace have rather been at daggers drawn. Many died in the war.

    While successive administrations in the states made frantic efforts to end the hostilities, they have largely failed to restore lasting peace.

    Information has it that before security agencies could mobilise to the warning communities, more damages would have been done with houses, farm crops, and other things burnt.

    In February, an indigene of Isu identified as Okoro Ukwaa, was reportedly murdered in a fresh communal clash between the community and Utuma in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    It was learnt that the crisis between the two communities started on April 18, 2018, over a disputed portion of land with large deposits of limestone.

    It was gathered that Ukwaa was murdered on his farm on February 16, 2019, during the clash.

    A group from the Isu community led by a former Secretary to the Abia State Government, Donatus Okorie, condemned the attack, describing it as most callous.

    Okorie regretted that since the crisis started, the Abia State Government had not done anything concrete to broker peace between the two communities, the Information Commissioner; John Okiyi-Kalu had debunked the report.

    He pointed out that attacks on the Isu community since last year were better imagined than experienced; adding that over 30 lives had been lost, while property worth millions of naira had been destroyed.

    He noted that over 15,000 people from Isu, including those from Iheosu, Abaisu Amach, and Alaoso, who fled their homes, were still refugees in many communities in Arochukwu Local Government Area of the state since April last year.

    Okorie said, “The situation, as it is, calls for urgent intervention by the Governor Okezie Ikpeazu administration.

    “The crisis dates back to April 18, 2018, when suddenly and without provocation, our Cross River State neighbours, Utuma, and their cronies launched an attack of monumental proportion on the defenseless people of Isu clan with its concomitant effects of losses in terms of lives and property.

    “But it is saddening to note that since this crisis started, the Abia State Government has not taken any concrete steps to stop further loss of lives and property and broker peace between the warring communities.

    “We have written series of petitions and made available documented reports to the state government and the police on the crisis. When our governor visited the Arochukwu Local Government Area for a grand civil reception, his attention was drawn to this crisis.

    “When he visited the traditional rulers from the local government, they still reinforced our earlier petition on the need for a lasting solution to the crisis. But it is regrettable to observe that nothing has been done.”

    The continued crisis in the Abia agrarian community has crippled farming and social activities in the community as the people now live in fear as they have become refugees in their own land.

    Many of them who lost their houses and other household properties are now seeking shelter in an unfit environment which exposes them to several dangers.

    Their children no longer go to school as teachers posted to their area have fled for their safety and property belonging to the school being carted away by yet-to-be-identified persons.

    Though sources in the area said that the presence of personnel of some security agencies in the area have helped to restore peace, they disclosed that farmers no longer go to farm for fear of being killed in their farms like their kinsman; Ukwaa, as such, leaving their crops to decay in the soil because the number of security personnel posted in their area isn’t enough to guarantee their safety.

    They state that there is looming hunger and starvation in the land as their living conditions can best be described as people living in a place worse than Internally Displaced Camp.

    However, the hope of shaking off the devastating effects of the communal crisis is not all lost as a team of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) personnel visited the Isu community on July 22 to assess the living conditions of the people of the community.

    The people of Isu Community were assured that the Federal Government will do everything within its powers to ensure that relief materials would be provided for them in order to ameliorate their plight as a result of the lingering crises between the Community and Utuma Clan in Cross River State.

    NEMA Coordinator in charge of Abia/Imo Operations Owerri Zonal Office Mr. Evans Ugoh Ignatius, who gave the assurance, said that he was in the community with his team on a fact-finding assessment; to ascertain the situation of things in the community, stating that henceforth, the Federal Government will never leave the people of Isu Community to suffer again.

    Ignatius used the opportunity of the visit to call on the National Boundary Commission to as a matter of urgency, live up to its expectation by delineating the boundary between the community and its   Cross River State neighbour.

    According to him, the call was to avoid further bloodletting in the area and thanked Abia State Government and the security personnel in the area for their efforts so far made to bring peace to the people.

    Speaking earlier, the Minority Whip/Member Representing Arochukwu State Constituency in the Abia House of Assembly Hon. Dr. Mike Ukoha thanked the Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) whom he said were very much aware and concern of the people’s plight and commended their effort to seek for ways to broker peace between the warring communities.

    Ukoha stressed that the quick response by the State Commissioner of Police, CP Eneh Okon to deploy his men in the affected community has helped to ensure peace in the community.

    Also speaking, the Executive Secretary SEMA Abia State, Mr. Sunday Jackson disclosed SEMA and NEMA have been working assiduously and expressed confidence that things will be well again in Isu Community.

    He described the Isu situation as a Complex Humanitarian Emergency due to the number of lives that have been lost as well as those Internally Displaced Persons and call on the FG to as a matter of urgency come to the aid of Isu people to enable them to have a sense of belonging.

    On his part, the Traditional Ruler of Obieze Isu Autonomous Community in Isu Ancient Kingdom Eze Mortimor Ogbonnaya who spoke on behalf of other Traditional Rulers in the area thanked NEMA for their finding time to visit the Internally Displaced Persons of the Community.

    According to Eze Ogbonnaya, at the beginning of the crisis between Isu and their neighboring Utuma and Ukwa, he had visited NEMA’s office at Abuja as well as the Inspector General of Police (Mohammed Adamu) Office, urging them to provide security for the community.

    The Isu monarch who stated that the people have been living in fears, however, expressed delight with the visit of NEMA’s officials in the area which he said is a boost to the confidence of the people that they haven’t been abandoned to their fate.

    Earlier in his remark, the President General of Isu Progressive Union Elder Felix Okoro recalled how the people of Utuma in Cross River State allegedly attacked the people of Iheosu in Isu clan on 18th of April 2018, burning down their houses and rendering them homeless due to a limestone that was discovered in the area which Utuma Clan have been claiming ownership.

    He further said that as a result of the unprovoked attack have claimed the lives of over 40 persons that they were able to recover their bodies, regretting that the Internally Displaced Persons in the area have been squatting at a Primary School in the area and Utughuiyi area of Isu as others have been forced to scatter around Arochukwu and Ututu.

    Elder Okoro while calling on the government to come to their aid, expressed optimism that the crisis would be curbed if both states and the federal government come together to fashion out the best way to approach it in order to find a longlasting solution.

    In their separate speeches in an interview, some of the Internally Displaced Persons in the area such as Mrs. Rose Uzoh, Ozoemelam Kalu, Eze Sunday and Madam Felicia K. Nwankwo called on the government to intervene in their plight.

    They explained that ever since 2018, they have been suffering due to their inability to visit their farmlands for fear of not being attacked.

    The people said they want both NEMA and SEMA to provide food and shelter, as well as adequate security for them to enable them to heave a sigh of relieve.

    The officials were taken around the places where the displaced persons are camped as they also had an interactive session with some members of the Isu community.