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Tag: Imo

  • Imo Govt bans graduation parties for school pupils

    Imo Govt bans graduation parties for school pupils

    The Imo State Government has banned elaborate graduation parties for pupils in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools, effective immediately.

    In a memo dated August 15, 2025, Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, directed that only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) students may hold graduation ceremonies, in line with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.

    Ikegwuoha explained that the move would reduce the financial strain on parents and ensure celebrations are reserved for key academic milestones.

    The directive also stops private and faith-based schools from changing textbooks yearly, mandating their use for at least four years to cut costs and enable siblings to share learning materials across sessions.

    “The Ministry is committed to providing quality and functional education. This policy promotes affordability, stability, and fairness in the education sector,” the Commissioner stated.

    “Proprietors must adhere to the approved textbook list to reduce costs and maintain consistency,” Ikegwuoha emphasised.

    Meanwhile, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in a statement commended the Imo State Government for its recent decision to ban lavish graduation parties for pupils in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools, describing it as a timely step toward curbing excesses and promoting responsible value reorientation among young learners.

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    According to the Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, the trend fosters unrealistic expectations of instant reward, encourages a culture of extravagance, and places undue financial pressure on parents, who are often compelled to fund what he described as a wasteful and socially unproductive practice.

    Issa-Onilu emphasised that early exposure to such lavish celebrations distorts the values of hard work, humility, and delayed gratification, which are essential for personal growth and national development.

    He added that the Agency is committed to working with state governments, schools, and parents to promote a culture prioritising discipline, modesty, and responsible upbringing among children. He added that the agency recently unveiled a campaign against extreme practices, and the ban by the state aligns with the general purpose of the campaign.

    Speaking on the State Government’s directive to stop school proprietors from changing textbooks annually, he noted that the move will significantly reduce the financial burden on families caused by frequent textbook replacements, making education more affordable and accessible for all students.

    Onilu stressed that Imo State’s policy allowing graduation ceremonies only for Primary 6 and Senior Secondary students aligns with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system, which ensures consistency with national education standards.

    The DG also encouraged other states to adopt similar policies, noting that such measures foster a more disciplined and value-driven education system, rooted in hard work, resilience, and perseverance.

    He explained that the policy contributes to a healthier educational environment by emphasising academic focus over extravagant celebrations during the early stages of schooling.

  • Why Imo community honoured son with title

    Why Imo community honoured son with title

    In a moment that blended tradition with gratitude, His Royal Highness Eze Jude Uwalaka, Ihi III of Umuihi and Chairman of the Imo Traditional Institution and Community Policing in Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area, led the conferment of High Chief title on one of Umuihi and Ihitte/Uboma illustrious sons, Chief Dr. Eze Onyegbule Okubuiro. Dr. Okubuiro’s selfless contributions to the welfare of his people—spanning educational sponsorships, community upliftment, and unwavering loyalty—reverberated strongly enough to earn him the rare honour even in absentia.

    What unfolded was not just a title bestowal, but a symbolic celebration of merit, unity, and the enduring values that define the ancient Umuihi Kingdom.

    Eze Jude Uwalaka, Ihi III of Umuihi, and Ambassador of Peace, explained the rationale behind the conferment of a High-Chief title on one of the community’s distinguished sons, Dr. Okubuiro, who resides overseas.

    Speaking on the honour, Eze Uwalaka said the title was bestowed in recognition of Dr. Okubuiro’s outstanding contributions to the community.

    “Eze has proven himself a true son of Umuihi and of Okubuiro descent” the royal father said. “Indeed the support from his Umuoshi kindred and endorsements from other prominent sons and daughters of Umuihi put me in no doubt to his merit of the title.” According to him, the event turned out to be a blessing to the entire community, as it attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria.

    On the criteria for selection, Eze Uwalaka noted that Dr. Okubuiro has been actively supporting his community by sponsoring educational pursuits from primary to university levels, offering financial assistance, and engaging in other philanthropic activities.

    “This title is not just any title—it is reserved for true sons of Umuihi. While others may receive a High-Chief title, anytime and anywhere, the particular one conferred on Dr. Okubuiro cannot be given to an outsider or anyone without Umuihi blood.

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    By virtue of this title, he is now one of the three High-Chiefs in our community, he represents the Umuoshi kindred.

    As long as he lives, no other Umuoshi man can receive that same title,” the monarch clarified.

    He further disclosed that Dr. Okubuiro had previously been honoured with a chieftaincy title in December 2024, adding that when the High-Chief position for Umuoshi became vacant, the community unanimously recommended him.

    “The difference between Chief and High-Chief is like the difference between His Royal Highness, His Royal Majesty, and Imperial Majesty—each denotes a level of honour and responsibility. High-Chief is superior to Chief,” Eze Uwalaka explained.

    Eze Uwalaka emphasised that character matters in such decisions. “No indigene of questionable character would be considered for such an honour. While someone may be given a chieftaincy title for one reason or the other, the High-Chief honour is reserved for individuals of proven integrity and distinguished service.”

    With the new status, Dr. Okubuiro now ranks alongside the Traditional Prime Minister in terms of honour and access to key community matters, he noted, adding that the Prime Minister remains the deputy to the Eze, while the High Chief holds a more senior position among other titled persons.

    Speaking on the honour, Chairman of Ndi Nze and Vice-Chairman of the Cabinet of the Umuihi Ancient Kingdom, Nze Anointing Ihediohanma, highlighted several of his philanthropic achievements, noting that the honouree had, even in absentia, awarded scholarships to students, funded medical treatments for indigent persons at the general hospital, irrespective of the nature of their ailments and supported solar streetlights installation.

    “In the area of security,” he continued, “Dr. Okubuiro has also been instrumental in supporting community efforts to ensure safety and peace. He has empowered small businesses and brought hope to many.”

    Nze Ihediohanma, who received the title on behalf of Dr. Okubuiro, explained that the conferment was not a unilateral decision by a single traditional ruler, but rather a collective endorsement by all the Ezes in Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area. “Even monarchs who couldn’t attend in person sent representatives,” he said.

    He further explained that Ihitte/Uboma consists of ten electoral wards. “By tradition, Umuihi leads the way in ‘Mbom Uzo’ (the ceremonial path-clearing) in Ihitte clan. This title wasn’t given by Umuihi alone. All the Ezes from both Ihitte and Uboma joined hands in honouring him as has been proven by their presence.”

    He clarified that Dr. Okubuiro neither lobbied for the title nor requested it. “High-Chief is not a title given carelessly. It is earned through visible, verifiable deeds. As the Bible says, ‘Let your good works shine before men so they may glorify your Father in heaven.’”

    He said the chieftaincy title ‘Osinanwata Buru Eze’ Dr. Okubuiro had earlier received and the quick progression to High Chief status was due to the overwhelming recognition of his continued service to the people. “When a community feels indebted to someone, this is how they express their appreciation,” he added.

    The title, he emphasized, is for life and cannot be duplicated within the same village. “Umuoshi being the largest of the three villages—Umuokoro, Umuelem, and Umuoshi—has now conferred this once-in-a-lifetime honour. No other individual from Umuoshi will hold this High-Chief title as long as Dr. Okubuiro lives. It is not hereditary, and only one person can bear it.”, he stated.

    A 17-year-old student and JAMB candidate awaiting admission, Onyemee Angel Chidera from Umuoshi, said she and her peers came to celebrate their guardian, Dr. Eze Okubuiro, who has taken it upon himself to support their education.

    “He has come to our rescue, meeting both our educational and personal needs. He paid for our examination fees and is committed to sponsoring our tertiary education,” she said.

    Chidera noted that she and 11 other beneficiaries—both boys and girls—along with other youths within and outside their community, believe Dr. Okubuiro deserves even more than the High-Chief title being conferred on him. “He is a man of his word. This honour will certainly encourage him to do even more,” Chidera added.

    “We, the younger generation, are deeply grateful for this recognition given to him by our community and the Ihitte/Uboma Council of Ndieze. It gives us hope and pride.”

    Describing him as a role model, Chidera said, “We want to be like him. We’re encouraging other young people to look up to individuals like Dr. Okubuiro and follow in their footsteps.”

    She also appealed to other well-placed sons and daughters of the community to join hands with Dr. Okubuiro in supporting the youth for a better future. “Our prayers are that God continues to bless him with wisdom, understanding, and fulfillment. May he enjoy a happy family life, and may celebration never cease in his home.”

  • Foundation clears N600,000 hospital bill for twins of blind father in Imo

    Foundation clears N600,000 hospital bill for twins of blind father in Imo

     …rescues family after two months

    In a touching act of compassion, the Stand For Humanity Foundation has come to the aid of a blind father, Ndubuisi Duruaku, and his wife, Chiamaka, by settling a N600,000 hospital bill for the birth of their twin daughters.

    The couple had been stranded at TotalCare Hospital in Akwakuma, Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, for two months after being unable to pay for the Caesarean section through which the babies were delivered on June 1.

    Despite being medically discharged, the family remained in the hospital until August 1, when the foundation, led by journalist and philanthropist Chidiebube Okeoma, stepped in and raised the funds within 48 hours with the help of well-meaning Nigerians.

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    Speaking to The Nation at the hospital, Okeoma described the family’s condition as heartbreaking but expressed gratitude that the situation ended in joy.

    “We are happy to announce that two-month-old twin girls, Akuyoma and Nwakaego Duruaku, held at TotalCare Hospital because of an outstanding delivery bill of N600,000, have been taken home by our organisation,” he said.

    In addition to settling the bill, the foundation provided the family with food supplies, baby formula, diapers, other provisions, and cash support. Okeoma also praised the hospital management for their patience and care, noting that the mother and babies had required eight units of blood following the surgery.

    The foundation further pledged to continue supporting the twins’ welfare, including their education. “When it is time for them to go to school, they will go to school,” Okeoma assured.

  • Tanzania backs Nigeria’s IMO Council bid

    Tanzania backs Nigeria’s IMO Council bid

    In a major diplomatic endorsement, the United Republic of Tanzania has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s bid for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, citing strong bilateral relations and Nigeria’s past support as key factors.

     This declaration was made during a courtesy visit by the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Selestine Gervas Kakele, to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola,  yesterday.

    Speaking during the visit, High Commissioner Kakele reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to fostering strategic maritime cooperation with Nigeria, describing both countries as natural partners with shared aspirations for maritime development.

    He noted that Tanzania’s support for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid stems not only from gratitude for Nigeria’s previous backing of Tanzania’s own IMO aspirations, but also from mutual respect and a shared vision for Africa’s voice on the global maritime stage.

    The High Commissioner further expressed Tanzania’s eagerness to tap into Nigeria’s experience in developing its marine and blue economy sector.

     He revealed plans to dispatch a team of Tanzanian maritime experts to Nigeria in the coming months to understudy key government agencies under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

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    In his response, the Minister welcomed the High Commissioner and his delegation, expressing deep appreciation for Tanzania’s backing of Nigeria’s bid to secure a seat on the IMO Council.

    Oyetola also emphasided that Nigeria’s election into Category C would not only serve national interests but would also bolster Africa’s collective influence in international maritime governance.

    “A seat for Nigeria at the IMO Council is, in essence, a voice for Africa. It means we can collectively advocate for safer shipping, sustainable marine resources, and fairer maritime trade practices across our continent. Nigeria’s vast coastline, dynamic port system, and active maritime policies make us a worthy representative of Africa on the global maritime stage,” Oyetola said.

    Oyetola also highlight the numerous initiatives being undertaken by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, including efforts to establish a national shipping carrier through a public-private partnership framework. He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing intra-African maritime trade, especially under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    “We believe the future of Africa’s economic resilience lies in maritime collaboration. As we unlock the full potential of our blue economy, there is enormous value in partnerships like the one we are building with Tanzania. Your proposed expert delegation is welcome, and my Ministry will provide all necessary support to ensure a productive engagement,” the minister said.

    The minister further pledged to encourage Nigerian investors to consider opportunities in Tanzania while also calling on Tanzanian investors to invest in Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector.

    The Tanzanian delegation included Minister Plenipotentiary Allen Kuzilwa and Minister Counsellor Philbert Peter. On the Nigerian side, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola; Director of Maritime Safety and Security, Mr. Babatunde Bombata; Director of Maritime Services, Dr. Mercy Ilori; and Senior Special Adviser to the President on Marine and Blue Economy, Professor Busayo Fakinlede, were present at the meeting.

    As both countries continue to deepen maritime collaboration, the visit marks a significant step towards shared progress in Africa’s evolving marine and blue economy landscape.

  • Fear of flood grips Oguta communities in Imo

    Fear of flood grips Oguta communities in Imo

    The 27 communities in Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State are filled with fear over the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) flood alert.

    The agency’s risk assessment report indicates a high risk of flooding due to rising water levels in the rivers and streams that traverse the area.

    The memories of past floods still linger in the minds of the residents.

    This already is sending panic, as the residents recall the devastating floods of 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022 that left many homes submerged, farmlands destroyed, and thousands displaced. The fear of another disaster is palpable, with many residents scrambling to evacuate their homes and salvage what they can.

     “We thought we had learned from the past, but it seems like history is repeating itself,” said a resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “We just hope that this time, the government will act swiftly to prevent a catastrophe.”

    As the situation worsens by the hour, residents are wading through chest-deep waters, carrying whatever belongings they can salvage. Panic fills the air as families express fear about leaving their homes, unsure of what the future holds.

    “We don’t know where to run for our lives,” said Mrs. Nneoma, a resident of one of the affected communities. “The water came so suddenly. We’re praying we make it to higher ground safely.”

    The government and humanitarian agencies are racing against time to respond to the crisis, but the situation remains dire. 

    “We’re doing everything we can to respond to the situation, but we need the public’s cooperation to mitigate the impact of this disaster,” said a government official.

    According to NEMA’s Principal Relief and Rehabilitation Officer, Ijegalu Nelicia Nonyelum, the situation is precarious and demands proactive measures to avert a full-scale disaster. “The warning signs are clear, and the window for preventive action is rapidly closing,” she warned.

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    The agency has identified high risks of flooding, potential displacement of residents, damage to farmlands and infrastructure, and health hazards due to stagnant floodwaters and contamination. With continuous rainfall compounding the situation, NEMA says, it requires immediate evacuation of residents in low-lying areas, public warning, and preparedness measures.

    As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is certain – the people of Oguta LGA need urgent help to prevent a humanitarian crisis. The clock is ticking, and every minute counts. 

    NEMA’s team visited the flood sites, had warning of an imminent disaster.

     “We urge everyone in the affected areas to seek higher ground immediately,” said Nonyelum. “We’re doing everything we can to respond to the situation, but we need the public’s cooperation to mitigate the impact of this disaster.”

    She disclosed that the assessment, conducted by NEMA from the Owerri Operations Office, Imo State, and River Marshals, revealed that all 27 communities in Oguta LGA are surrounded or intersected by rivers, which are currently filled beyond normal capacity and dangerously close to breaching their banks.

    The team identified serious risks, including high probability of flooding in low-lying areas, potential displacement of residents, damage to farmlands and infrastructure, health hazards, and limited preparedness at the community level for emergency evacuation or flood mitigation.

    Nonyelum emphasized that immediate action is required to prevent loss of lives and property, urging residents to relocate to higher grounds and designated safe zones.

    “Deployment of emergency response teams and logistics support from NEMA and relevant partners should be considered imminent. We recommend that the current situation in Oguta LGA. is precarious and demands proactive measures to avert a full-scale disaster. 

    “The warning signs are clear, and the window for preventive action is rapidly closing. Immediate relocation and intensified public awareness are critical at this stage,” she maintained.

  • Imo govt demolishes criminal hideout, arrests suspects in major security operation

    Imo govt demolishes criminal hideout, arrests suspects in major security operation

    The Imo State Government has uncovered and demolished a notorious criminal hideout allegedly linked to gun running, armed robbery, drug trafficking, and other violent crimes across the state.

    The operation, which lasted several hours, was carried out at Number One Nekede Old Road in Owerri West Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of several suspected criminals.

    A senior government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity on Thursday, said the exercise underscores the state government’s commitment to restoring law and order. 

    The official reaffirmed Governor Hope Uzodimma’s resolve to ensure lasting peace and security in Imo State.

    “This development underscores the state government’s commitment to restoring law and order and sending a clear message to criminals that there is no safe haven for crime in Imo State.”

    He disclosed items recovered were assorted firearms, cartridges, hard drugs, and other incriminating materials. 

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    “We also discovered vandalized public infrastructure, including government-installed solar-powered streetlights, believed to have been stolen and dismantled by the criminal syndicate.”

    He said “The recovery of these items is a testament to the government’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements.”.

    He advised residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, as more operations are expected in the days ahead to completely rid the state of criminal influence. 

    “We urge the public to cooperate with us in our efforts to make Imo State a safe and secure place for all,” the government official stated.

    The police spokesman in the state, Henry Okoye, has confirmed that security was provided for the operation, but deferred to the government to explain the rationale behind it, saying, “We provided the security, but the government can explain why the operation was conducted.”

  • Police dismantle kidnapping syndicates, neutralises IPOB/ESN terrorists in Imo

    Police dismantle kidnapping syndicates, neutralises IPOB/ESN terrorists in Imo

    …arrest 147 suspects, kill five 

    The Imo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its efforts to enhance peace and security in the state.

     In a series of well-coordinated operations in various locations across the state, the police arrested 147 suspects for various crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, and terrorism.

    Parading the suspects on Sunday, Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, said the command was committed to safeguarding lives and property in the state.

     “Security measures have been strengthened across the state to eliminate kidnapping and violent crimes,” he stated.

    According to him, the police operatives arrested one Ozioma Ihedoro, a 37-year-old native doctor and spiritual adviser to an IPOB/ESN commander, who provided intelligence to dismantle other syndicates.

    He disclosed that several arms and ammunition were recovered, including 7 AK-47 rifles, 3 AK-47 magazines, and 178 live cartridges.

    The police commissioner said 7 kidnapped victims were rescued while 5 of the armed suspects were neutralised during fierce gun battles.

    He said: “Recovered from these suspects were 7 AK-47 rifles, 3 AK-47 magazines, 7 pump action guns, 7 locally fabricated long guns, 178 live cartridges, 3 motorcycles, various denominations of Biafra currency, 4 Biafra flags, and several criminal charms.

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    “In the course of the operations, five armed suspects were neutralized during fierce gun battles with police operatives, and seven kidnapped victims were successfully rescued.”

    He disclosed further that a major breakthrough occurred on May 20, 2025 around 1600hrs in Umuaka, Njaba LGA, when Anti-Kidnapping operatives arrested Ozioma Ihedoro, a 37-year-old native doctor on the Command’s wanted list. He admitted to being the spiritual adviser to an IPOB/ESN commander known as “B44.” A search of his shrine, an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and seven live rounds were recovered.

    He said that the suspect was cooperating with investigators, providing intelligence to dismantle other syndicate at large.

    In a related development on 19th May 19, 2025, the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, in synergy with operatives of Njaba Division, arrested three armed robbery suspects—Chinonso Anayo (aka Pablo, 24), Emmanuel John (21), and Ifeanyi John (20), all from Isiagu, Ebonyi State.

  • Herdsmen abduct siblings in Imo community

    Herdsmen abduct siblings in Imo community

    • Demand N100m ransom

    Armed men suspected to be herdsmen have abducted two siblings, Master Prince Ugwuegbulem and Miss Chizitere Ugwuegbulem, in Umuoka, Amakaohia-Ubi Autonomous Community, Owerri West Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.

    The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, May 22, 2025, around 8:30 pm, just 200 meters from their residence.

    Confirming the incident, Mr. Marvelous Ngoha, a community indigene and CEO of Amakohia Ubi Vanguard, said: “The siblings—children of Emeka Ugwuegbulem, an engineer, were kidnapped on their way home.”

    The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦100 million, but later reduced it to ₦9 million, sources said.

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    It was learnt that the residents of the community who are now in a state of panic, have called for immediate government intervention.

    According to sources, the family has formally reported the case to the police, and residents are pleading for swift action to ensure the safe return of the children.

    As the community waits anxiously for the siblings’ release, there is growing concern about the rising wave of insecurity in the state.

    However, the residents are hopeful that the authorities will take swift action to rescue the abducted siblings.

  • Suspected herdsmen abduct two siblings in Imo community

    Suspected herdsmen abduct two siblings in Imo community

    Suspected herdsmen have abducted two siblings, Master Prince Ugwuegbulem and Miss Chizitere Ugwuegbulem, in Umuoka, Amakaohia-Ubi Autonomous Community, Owerri West Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State.

     The incident occurred on Thursday around 8:30 pm, just 200 meters from their residence.

    Confirming the incident, Mr. Marvelous Ngoha, a community indigene and CEO of Amakohia Ubi Vanguard, said: “The siblings—children of  Emeka Ugwuegbulem, an engineer, were kidnapped on their way home.”

    The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦100 million but later reduced it to ₦9 million, sources said.

    It was learnt that the residents of the community who are in a state of panic, have called for immediate government intervention. 

    According to sources, the family has formally reported the case to the police, and residents are pleading for swift action to ensure the safe return of the children.

  • Renowned professor congratulates Nwandu as he takes staff of office in Imo

    Renowned professor congratulates Nwandu as he takes staff of office in Imo

    Renowned scholar and visiting Professor at the Polish Centre for African Studies, Wroclaw, Dr. Uche Igwe, has congratulated His Royal Majesty Eze (Dr.) Okwudiri Divine Nwandu, the traditional ruler of Ihitteafoukwu Ancient Kingdom, on receiving his official staff of office.

    The presentation ceremony was conducted by the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma.

    In a statement to the media, Dr. Igwe expressed his joy over the official confirmation of the monarch, describing him as a visionary leader committed to progress and development. 

    He also commended Governor Uzodimma for respecting the collective will of the people in affirming Eze Nwandu’s position.

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    Dr. Igwe prayed for the King’s long life and successful reign, wishing him wisdom and strength to bring peace and prosperity to Ihitteafoukwu and Mbaise in general.

    Governor Uzodimma presented certificates and staff of office to 66 new traditional rulers on Saturday, March 22nd at Government House in Owerri.

    In his address, Governor Uzodimma urged the traditional rulers to serve their subjects with honesty, peace, and justice.

    Uzodimma called on them to see themselves as part of the government and community-level ambassadors, supporting local government chairmen and counsellors to maintain law and order.