GOV. OBI RECEIVES GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Monday, May 7, 2012
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Monday, May 7, 2012
Gov. Peter Obi has received the 2011 Governor of the Year Award of the Business Hallmark publications. The award was presented to the Governor at the People of the Year, 2011 awards ceremony of the media organization at the Golden Gate Restaurant, Kingsway Road, Ikoyi, Lagos on Saturday Night.
Speaking
at the event, the Publisher of the newspaper, Prince Emeka Obasi said
his choice was after painstaking debate and voting among the members of
the Paper’s Editorial Board. He said his choice was informed by Obi’s
transformational, visionary and people-oriented leadership, which it
noted had set a standard and benchmark to access governance in the
country.
Further,
it noted that Governor Obi administration had re-defined governance
through comprehensive, integrated and holistic approach that introduced
a new order hinged on promotion of fiscal discipline, transparency and
accountability. “With what he is doing in Anambra State, she is now
one of the most progressive and celebrated state in the country”, he
said.
The
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Abdulaziz Udeh said the award was in
recognition of Obi’s commendable difference in governance, adding that
performance such as his, had become a beacon of hope for the country.
The
Special Adviser to the President on Inter-Party Relations, Sen. Ben
Obi said that the award had shown that Gov. Obi’s solid achievements
and leadership qualities were speaking for themselves. He said the
Governor was destined to leave a solid legacy in Anambra State through
transparent, focused and committed leadership.
The
Anglican Bishop of Mbamili, Rt Rev. Henry Okeke said the award was in
recognition of the Governor’s giant strides that were being appreciated
beyond the bounds of the State and the Country.
In
his response, the Governor said he saw the award as a challenge and
motivation for him to do more for the uplift of the society.
ANAMBRA INTRODUCES FREE HEALTH CARE
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Friday, May 4, 2012
Anambra State is set to introduce free healthcare in hospitals across the State in the specific area of child delivery. This was revealed by Governor Peter Obi yesterday while handing over a brand new ambulance donated to the Aguata Anglican Diocesan hospital, Umunze to the Archbishop, His Grace Christian Efobi.
Making the presentation, the Governor reiterated the state government’s commitment to continue to assist the Church develop their own facilities, arguing that those facilities served the interest of the people of Anambra State .
In an address signed by Archbishop Christian Efobi, he said that since 1981 when the hospital was established, successive governments did not show interest in its progress until now. Commending the Governor for the gesture, he encouraged him to continue partnering with the Church for the good of society. The archbishop, who lamented that politics in Nigeria was devoid of civilized norms, thanked Governor Obi for championing a paradigm shift by encouraging service in governance.
Concluding, he also commended Obi for the befitting burial accorded Dim Emeka Ojukwu saying that by so doing, he brought honour to the Igbo race.
Earlier in his remarks, the State Commissioner for Health, Professor Amobi Ilika said the present government was committed to addressing inequality in the state which was the reason development was being taken to remote areas that never witnessed it before. He enjoined the hospital managers to deploy the ambulance for their outreach mission of saving lives. Explaining the rationale for assisting hospitals owned by voluntary agencies, the Commissioner said the present government saw them as collaborators rather than competitors.
In a related development, the Governor donated a brand new 18 sitter van and ten desktop computers to Austin Memorial Secondary School Nanka and Holy Family Collgege, Isuofia. He advised the students to be serious with their academics which according to him were the basic currency they need to conquer the future. He also tasked the students to be of strong moral character.
Responding, the Principal Rev Fr (Dr) Cosmas Ebebe thanked Obi for introducing civilized order into governance in Anambra State . He also commended the Governor for the support to missionary institutions, especially in the recent handover of schools to them and grant of six billion naira for rehabilitating the schools.
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Friday, May 4, 2012
Anambra State is set to introduce free healthcare in hospitals across the State in the specific area of child delivery. This was revealed by Governor Peter Obi yesterday while handing over a brand new ambulance donated to the Aguata Anglican Diocesan hospital, Umunze to the Archbishop, His Grace Christian Efobi.
Making the presentation, the Governor reiterated the state government’s commitment to continue to assist the Church develop their own facilities, arguing that those facilities served the interest of the people of Anambra State .
In an address signed by Archbishop Christian Efobi, he said that since 1981 when the hospital was established, successive governments did not show interest in its progress until now. Commending the Governor for the gesture, he encouraged him to continue partnering with the Church for the good of society. The archbishop, who lamented that politics in Nigeria was devoid of civilized norms, thanked Governor Obi for championing a paradigm shift by encouraging service in governance.
Concluding, he also commended Obi for the befitting burial accorded Dim Emeka Ojukwu saying that by so doing, he brought honour to the Igbo race.
Earlier in his remarks, the State Commissioner for Health, Professor Amobi Ilika said the present government was committed to addressing inequality in the state which was the reason development was being taken to remote areas that never witnessed it before. He enjoined the hospital managers to deploy the ambulance for their outreach mission of saving lives. Explaining the rationale for assisting hospitals owned by voluntary agencies, the Commissioner said the present government saw them as collaborators rather than competitors.
In a related development, the Governor donated a brand new 18 sitter van and ten desktop computers to Austin Memorial Secondary School Nanka and Holy Family Collgege, Isuofia. He advised the students to be serious with their academics which according to him were the basic currency they need to conquer the future. He also tasked the students to be of strong moral character.
Responding, the Principal Rev Fr (Dr) Cosmas Ebebe thanked Obi for introducing civilized order into governance in Anambra State . He also commended the Governor for the support to missionary institutions, especially in the recent handover of schools to them and grant of six billion naira for rehabilitating the schools.
WHY I VISITED ANAMBRA STATE – IG OF POLICE
Friday, May 4, 2012
Friday, May 4, 2012
The
Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Mohammed Dahiru Abubakar was in
Anambra State yesterday on official tour of the Anambra State Police
Command.
Speaking during a courtesy visit on the Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, he said he was in the State because all the times the Governor had called him on phone or visited him, that he was so passionate about security of lives and property in the State. “I am here to access the command, its operational readiness and needs”, he said. The IG said that Anambra was one of the foremost States in Nigeria in terms of economic achievement, which, according to him, flourished when there were peace and security.
Speaking about the police force, he admitted that he took over at a time the world all of over, including Nigeria, is facing security challenges. He assured Nigerians that the police would not relent. He promised to continue to work towards restoring professionalism in the police by emphasizing discipline, competence, training and motivation.
Responding, Governor Obi thanked him for the visit. He said that Anambra State Government was committed to working with legitimate security agencies in the State. He said that he had donated over 200 new patrol vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), communication equipment, among others to the police and that he would continue to support and work with them.
Obi appealed to the IG to consider Anambra security along the line of her huge population saying, “population wise, Okpoko alone should have its own command.” Describing Anambra as one of the safest States in the country, he linked the challenge os armed robbery to the volume of cash in the State, being predominantly a commercial city.
Later, at a well attended Town Hall meeting, The Inspector General of Police read a riot act, saying that road block is gone forever. According to him, Nigeria is the only country where police block roads and block easy passage by motorists. Through the ban of road blocks, Abubakar said, the police had curbed at least 70 per cent of corruption among its rank and file.
He said he would tackle the nasty issue of extorting money from detainees before bail, saying that there was nowhere in the constitution where money was prescribed for bail.
He also said that the police had drawn a code of conduct for police men and any one not toeing the line would be dismissed. But he asked the people to be courageous and resist tempting the police with bribes.
He also said that illegal use of siren must stop and that he had ordered the Anambra Commissioner of Police to enforce the law after his visit.
Speaking during a courtesy visit on the Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, he said he was in the State because all the times the Governor had called him on phone or visited him, that he was so passionate about security of lives and property in the State. “I am here to access the command, its operational readiness and needs”, he said. The IG said that Anambra was one of the foremost States in Nigeria in terms of economic achievement, which, according to him, flourished when there were peace and security.
Speaking about the police force, he admitted that he took over at a time the world all of over, including Nigeria, is facing security challenges. He assured Nigerians that the police would not relent. He promised to continue to work towards restoring professionalism in the police by emphasizing discipline, competence, training and motivation.
Responding, Governor Obi thanked him for the visit. He said that Anambra State Government was committed to working with legitimate security agencies in the State. He said that he had donated over 200 new patrol vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), communication equipment, among others to the police and that he would continue to support and work with them.
Obi appealed to the IG to consider Anambra security along the line of her huge population saying, “population wise, Okpoko alone should have its own command.” Describing Anambra as one of the safest States in the country, he linked the challenge os armed robbery to the volume of cash in the State, being predominantly a commercial city.
Later, at a well attended Town Hall meeting, The Inspector General of Police read a riot act, saying that road block is gone forever. According to him, Nigeria is the only country where police block roads and block easy passage by motorists. Through the ban of road blocks, Abubakar said, the police had curbed at least 70 per cent of corruption among its rank and file.
He said he would tackle the nasty issue of extorting money from detainees before bail, saying that there was nowhere in the constitution where money was prescribed for bail.
He also said that the police had drawn a code of conduct for police men and any one not toeing the line would be dismissed. But he asked the people to be courageous and resist tempting the police with bribes.
He also said that illegal use of siren must stop and that he had ordered the Anambra Commissioner of Police to enforce the law after his visit.
ANAMBRA WILL BE BEST STATE IN 20 YEARS, SAYS OBI
Friday, May 4, 2012
Friday, May 4, 2012
Based
on the solid foundation he has been laying for it, Anambra will be the
best state in Nigeria in 20 years time, Governor Peter Obi has said.
Anambra
State Government has initiated more measures to further strengthen the
policy of honouring retired civil servants. Governor Peter Obi dropped
the hint at a dinner organized in honour of committee of Directors of
the State Civil Service who toured some completed and on-going projects
of the present administration, two retired Heads of Service, fifteen
retired permanent Secretaries, two retired accountants General and one
retired Auditor-General at the Banquet Hall of the Governor’s Lodge
Amawbia.
According
to Obi, his efforts and good rapport with the presidency had attracted
foreign investors to the state resulting in the decision of the second
largest brewers in the world, SABmiller, to establish a factory in
Onitsha, Anambra State. The factory which is one of the three being put
up in Onitsha industrial area, the governor said, would employ an
initial 350 people, with 60 percent coming from Anambra State as
mutually agreed. The other two will also employ about the same number,
the governor stated.
He
noted that these and other foreign investments like the Protea group
which is building a five-star hotel in Onitsha were results of his
vision for the state and useful partnership with the federal government
to which he is adviser on finance. Obi stated that his several trips
abroad with the president had been yielding good dividends to the state
from the useful contacts he had been making.
The
governor said such investments were what the state needed to take care
of the large number of the unemployed and reckoned that if sustained,
the state would rank the best in the country in 20 years time.
He
used the opportunity to commend the retired top civil servants that
included Elsie Ikemefuna and Ngozi Melifonwu who were former heads of
service and said it was wrong not to show appreciation to those who had
served the state well. He also noted that his administration was the
first to honour such people and while regretting that it had not been
done in the past, promised to make it a regular event henceforth.
According
to him, the peak of civil service was not being permanent secretaries
because the position was by appointment. Rather, he noted, the peak was
directorship.
Obi
reiterated his resolve to build a better place for today’s children by
laying the proper foundation regardless of whether it was an unpopular
action. ‘I’m not doing what I’m doing today as a campaign because I
have said I will not aspire for anything again after eight years in
office as Anambra governor. I’m not doing it to seek glory because I
have got all I want from God. The history of Nigeria will not be
written without a page being devoted to my contributions to the growth
of Nigeria’s democracy,’ Obi stated.
The
event which was also attended by serving directors of the various
ministries who toured the governor’s projects, also saw them relieving
what they witnessed on the tour. Their spokesman, Pius Udo, who is the
clerk of the state legislature, said the tour afforded them the
opportunity to confirm what they had heard and read about the governor’s
achievements and stated, ‘we have come, we have seen and we are
convinced that the government is performing.’ He then jokingly moved a
motion that Obi be commended and appreciated by the audience for his
good works.
Highlight of the dinner was the presentation of gifts to the retirees.
ANAMBRA LABOUR UNION SING PRAISES OF OBI AT MAY DAY
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Yesterday’s May day celebration in Anambra was unlike many others in the past devoid of rancour and name-calling between labour union and Government as the Chairman of the state wing of the Nigeria Labour Congress, comrade Patrick Obianyo praised Governor Peter Obi for his enormous achievements in infrastructural development.
These facilities, Obianyo said, had given the people easy access to towns and villages in the state and opened up those communities that were hitherto difficult to reach.
Describing the relationship between the state and the labour union as “very cordial because it is obvious that the government has done so well and had increased workers’ salaries severally including the recent N10,000 increase”.
Obianyo, however, asked the Governor to look into some areas that are still disturbing to the workers. Although salaries has been increased several times, he said, the recent removal of fuel subsidy has greatly eroded the value of money and government needed to put more money on workers’ wages.
He also said that the union was worried about the plight of workers of Anambra state indigenes dismissed by Abia state government. Most worrisome, he said was the aspect of 53 pensioners among them who have spent their entire productive life in the service of Abia Government and had been receiving their pensions.
The workers also worried about the termination of appointment of workers of the defunct Anambra state environmental protection agency (ANSEPA), contract appointments and the likes. Obianyo also demanded that labour leaders be appointed into boards and parastatals and non ministerial departments.
Governor Obi in his speech thanked workers for their contributions to the growth of the state. He said that when all joined hands the state would attract outside support and that in itself will give the state more leverage.
Obi said that virtually everything Obianyo complained off were being handled at government level and that soon, the Secretary to the Government will invite labour leaders on a round table to discuss them.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Yesterday’s May day celebration in Anambra was unlike many others in the past devoid of rancour and name-calling between labour union and Government as the Chairman of the state wing of the Nigeria Labour Congress, comrade Patrick Obianyo praised Governor Peter Obi for his enormous achievements in infrastructural development.
These facilities, Obianyo said, had given the people easy access to towns and villages in the state and opened up those communities that were hitherto difficult to reach.
Describing the relationship between the state and the labour union as “very cordial because it is obvious that the government has done so well and had increased workers’ salaries severally including the recent N10,000 increase”.
Obianyo, however, asked the Governor to look into some areas that are still disturbing to the workers. Although salaries has been increased several times, he said, the recent removal of fuel subsidy has greatly eroded the value of money and government needed to put more money on workers’ wages.
He also said that the union was worried about the plight of workers of Anambra state indigenes dismissed by Abia state government. Most worrisome, he said was the aspect of 53 pensioners among them who have spent their entire productive life in the service of Abia Government and had been receiving their pensions.
The workers also worried about the termination of appointment of workers of the defunct Anambra state environmental protection agency (ANSEPA), contract appointments and the likes. Obianyo also demanded that labour leaders be appointed into boards and parastatals and non ministerial departments.
Governor Obi in his speech thanked workers for their contributions to the growth of the state. He said that when all joined hands the state would attract outside support and that in itself will give the state more leverage.
Obi said that virtually everything Obianyo complained off were being handled at government level and that soon, the Secretary to the Government will invite labour leaders on a round table to discuss them.
ANAMBRA SEEKS CLOSER COLLABORATION WITH UNICEF, OTHERS
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
The United Nation Children Funds (UNICEF) has commended Governor Peter Obi for his commitment in promoting the welfare of children and the vulnerable. The UNICEF country representative in Nigeria, Mrs Suomi Sakai gave the commendation when Governor Obi led some Government officials to her office in the UNICEF office at Abuja.
She said that the Governor had done well in the implementation of projects and programme that impact directly on the lives of children and women. She explained that children need special care, attention and proper training to equip them adequately for their future roles. She assured that the organization will continue to work with the Government that has the vision and strategy of delivering people- oriented programmes with basic objectives.
The Head, Social policy Section of UNICEF Mrs. Shalim Bahvgvna said that Anambra State had done exceptional in water and sanitation sector covering over 85% of said target.
Responding, Governor Obi said that his visit was to update the organization on the various activities of his programmes, exchange ideas and suggestion on possible areas of improvement. He expressed satisfaction on the level of success recorded so far. The Governor said that the State partnership with UNICEF and other Developmental partners helped to fill budgetary gaps in order to achieve Millennium Development Goals.
Governor Obi also held discussions with the DFID, UNDP, among other bodies.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
The United Nation Children Funds (UNICEF) has commended Governor Peter Obi for his commitment in promoting the welfare of children and the vulnerable. The UNICEF country representative in Nigeria, Mrs Suomi Sakai gave the commendation when Governor Obi led some Government officials to her office in the UNICEF office at Abuja.
She said that the Governor had done well in the implementation of projects and programme that impact directly on the lives of children and women. She explained that children need special care, attention and proper training to equip them adequately for their future roles. She assured that the organization will continue to work with the Government that has the vision and strategy of delivering people- oriented programmes with basic objectives.
The Head, Social policy Section of UNICEF Mrs. Shalim Bahvgvna said that Anambra State had done exceptional in water and sanitation sector covering over 85% of said target.
Responding, Governor Obi said that his visit was to update the organization on the various activities of his programmes, exchange ideas and suggestion on possible areas of improvement. He expressed satisfaction on the level of success recorded so far. The Governor said that the State partnership with UNICEF and other Developmental partners helped to fill budgetary gaps in order to achieve Millennium Development Goals.
Governor Obi also held discussions with the DFID, UNDP, among other bodies.
SECOND NIGER BRIDGE IMPORTANT TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT – MINISTER OF WORKS
Monday, April 30, 2012
The Minister of Works, Arch Mike Onolememen said Governor Peter Obi’s creative collaboration with the Federal Government has attracted its strong intervention on Anambra State and South East roads. He was speaking when Governor Obi paid him a courtesy call in Abuja. He also made it clear that the Federal Government is passionate about the completion of the Second Niger Bridge project before the end of the tenure of President Goodluck Jonathan.
The Minister noted that the Governor’s persistence and commitment to critical road infrastructure has uplifted quality road network in the area. He recalled that the Governor’s persistent appeals on the ravages of erosion between the Upper Iweka and Bridge Head end of Onitsha Express Way brought immediate Federal Government intervention that checked further devastation.
He said that President Goodluck Jonathan will soon give directive on the Governor’s request as it relates to Amansea end of Onitsha-Enugu Express Way, passing through the entire capital territory.
On the Second Niger Bridge, the Minister said that they had commenced procurement processes for the project since December last year, assuring that work on the project will commence within the last quarter of this year or first quarter of 2013.
Earlier Governor Peter Obi thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for the visible presence of the Federal Government now in Anambra. He said his visit was to draw their attention to the condition of the existing roads in the area that required urgent attention. The Governor explained that if nothing was done urgently on the roads, they will become impassable at the peak of rainy season. He equally repeated his call for work to commence on the Second Niger Bridge. Governor Obi said that while the State Government is waiting for the refund of money it spent on reconstructing federal roads in the State, he was equally seeking permission to embark on the reconstruction of more federal roads in the State.
The Governor was accompanied on the visit by the Commissioner for Works, Arch. Calistus Ilozumba, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Prof. Chinyere Okunna, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Mrs. Michel Onugbolu and Permanent Secretary in-charge of the State Liaison Office, Abuja, Dr. Beatrice Okonkwo.
Monday, April 30, 2012
The Minister of Works, Arch Mike Onolememen said Governor Peter Obi’s creative collaboration with the Federal Government has attracted its strong intervention on Anambra State and South East roads. He was speaking when Governor Obi paid him a courtesy call in Abuja. He also made it clear that the Federal Government is passionate about the completion of the Second Niger Bridge project before the end of the tenure of President Goodluck Jonathan.
The Minister noted that the Governor’s persistence and commitment to critical road infrastructure has uplifted quality road network in the area. He recalled that the Governor’s persistent appeals on the ravages of erosion between the Upper Iweka and Bridge Head end of Onitsha Express Way brought immediate Federal Government intervention that checked further devastation.
He said that President Goodluck Jonathan will soon give directive on the Governor’s request as it relates to Amansea end of Onitsha-Enugu Express Way, passing through the entire capital territory.
On the Second Niger Bridge, the Minister said that they had commenced procurement processes for the project since December last year, assuring that work on the project will commence within the last quarter of this year or first quarter of 2013.
Earlier Governor Peter Obi thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for the visible presence of the Federal Government now in Anambra. He said his visit was to draw their attention to the condition of the existing roads in the area that required urgent attention. The Governor explained that if nothing was done urgently on the roads, they will become impassable at the peak of rainy season. He equally repeated his call for work to commence on the Second Niger Bridge. Governor Obi said that while the State Government is waiting for the refund of money it spent on reconstructing federal roads in the State, he was equally seeking permission to embark on the reconstruction of more federal roads in the State.
The Governor was accompanied on the visit by the Commissioner for Works, Arch. Calistus Ilozumba, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Prof. Chinyere Okunna, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Mrs. Michel Onugbolu and Permanent Secretary in-charge of the State Liaison Office, Abuja, Dr. Beatrice Okonkwo.
ANAMBRA GETS A TEACHING HOSPITAL
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Monday, April 30, 2012
After
many years of labour of providing infrastructure, buildings and
equipment, at the Amaku General Hospital, the hospital was finally
approved and accredited by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria as
a teaching hospital, the first Anambra State is having since the
creation of the State.
The
Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Amobi Linus Ilika, who
disclosed this to news men yesterday at Awka, said that the people of
the State should be immensely grateful to the Governor, who worked day
and night to see that the teaching hospital was accredited.
Recalling
that no health institution was accredited in Anambra State before Obi
became the Governor, Ilika said: “on becoming the Governor, Obi
promised to get three hospitals and existing health institutions
accredited by relevant bodies. Today, many health institutions are now
accredited. Two hospitals, Onitsha General Hospital and Amaku Teaching
Hospital, Awka are accredited. The Governor is working relentlessly at
Ekwulobia General Hospital for it to gain its own accreditation.
Besides, through his support, some health institutions owned and
managed by voluntary agencies have regained accreditation.”
Reacting to the development, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, the former National Chairman of Ohaneze, the Chairman of Anambra State Elders’ Forum and the Chairman of the Board of the hospital, said he was pleased at the development. His words: “The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria has given us full accreditation to run a teaching hospital and a medical college. We are allowed to take 50 students and 24 residents. Though there are minor issues they pointed out that should be resolved as in most accreditation visit, we are already working at them. I am pleased over the development and I commend Gov. Obi for making it possible.”
Reacting to the development, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, the former National Chairman of Ohaneze, the Chairman of Anambra State Elders’ Forum and the Chairman of the Board of the hospital, said he was pleased at the development. His words: “The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria has given us full accreditation to run a teaching hospital and a medical college. We are allowed to take 50 students and 24 residents. Though there are minor issues they pointed out that should be resolved as in most accreditation visit, we are already working at them. I am pleased over the development and I commend Gov. Obi for making it possible.”
Ikedife
said that the three watchwords for the Hospital are: discipline,
discipline and discipline. “We are determined to run the hospital in
such a way that it becomes a reference point in the country. We shall
not tolerate laxity or indiscipline of any sort from anybody who has
one thing or the other to do with the University.”
On
his own part, Prof. Okey Mbonu, Chairman Board of University of
Nigeria Teaching Hospital and a former President, West African College
of Surgeons, said he was extremely happy over the development. He
commended governor Obi, the University and the hospital management and
staff for their roles towards the accreditation.”
In
his own reaction, the Vice Chancellor of the Anambra State University,
Prof. Okafor said that the accreditation of the hospital and the
College would remain one of the biggest achievements of Gov. Obi. He
said that the people of the State would forever remain thankful to him
for his rare commitment to the State. “On our own part, we shall strive
to sustain that achievement by putting in all efforts to make the
College of medicine one of the best in the country.”
Commenting
on the accreditation, the pioneer medical student of the University,
Mr. Maduabuchi Okafor who though would have graduated, but said he was
still in year three due to lack of accreditation said that the students
were overwhelmed with joy over the development. He thanked Governor
Obi for the massive development in the hospital that enabled it secure
accreditation within a record time. “Obi is in fact a loving and caring
father,” he concluded.
METHODIST PRELATE COMMENDS OBI FOR RETURN OF SCHOOLS TO THE CHURCHES
Monday, April 30, 2012
Monday, April 30, 2012
The
Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Sunday Ola Makinde has
extolled Governor Peter Obi for the political will and courage
demonstrated in returning schools to the original church owners. Dr.
Makinde. Dr. Makinde was speaking at the opening ceremony of the
Thirtieth Council of Bishops at the Saint Andrews Methodist
Cathedral, Awada.
The
Prelate said the return of the school to the Mission would help to
rebuild the collapsed and decaying social system, restore core values
and disciple in the society.
Dr.
Makinde who commended the Governor’s sustained efforts in crime
fighting and protecting life and property, noted that Governor Obi’s
unpararelled political tolerance was promoting political harmony and
urged others to emulate him to enhance unity and harmonious
co-existence by playing politics as patriots.
While
thanking the Governor for taking care of Ojukwu both in Nigeria and
in London hospital as well as giving him befitting and celebrated
burial, the Prelate urged Nigerians to keep the memory of Ojukwu who
fought relentlessly for justice, equity and fairness by upholding
his legacy and building a country that will be home for all Nigerians
without molestation or threat to life.
He
called on the Federal Government to commence work on the second
Nigeria Bridge without further delay, while condemning the activities
of the Boko Haram sect and abuse of pension funds by those entrusted
to manage them.
The
Methodist Archbishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Reverend Samuel Uche
said the Governor had distinguished himself in human and material
resources and had continued to play fundamental roles in reshaping
the country in spite of belonging to another political party from the
government at the centre.
In
his speech, Governor Obi said the rebuilding of Nigeria was a
collective responsibility of all and urged the church to remain vocal
on issues that affected the people and remain courageous in telling
those in position of authority to keep them responsive to the needs
of the people as well as use public resources for the collective
welfare of all.
The
Governor observed that the State is the least indebted in the
country as it has not borrowed any kobo and will continue to live
within available resources and still meet its obligations.
GOV. OBI CONDEMNS THE BOMBING OF THISDAY OFFICES
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Gov. Peter Obi has condemned the bombing of Thisday Abuja and Kaduna offices, describing the act as the worst form of man’s inhumanity to man and the society.
Obi,
who commended the laudable part the media is playing in the
deepening of democracy, growth and development of the country,
wondered why any person who loves peace and progress should resort to
attacking that vital sector or any sector for that matter.
Obi
said it was regrettable that while President Goodluck Jonathan is
striving hard to transform the country, some people are bent on
ruining it for no just reason. He reminded the perpetrators of the
dastardly act that they are hurting the society where their children
are living and called on them to have a re-think.
Condoling the Chairman of Thisday Chief Nduka Obaigbena and the entire Thisday
family, Obi urged them not to be dampened by this ugly incident,
advising them to continue with their tradition of robust journalism.
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GOVERNOR OBI HAS DONE WELL – LABOUR LEADERS
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Monday, April 16, 2012
Labour Leaders in the State have commended the high level of infrastructural development recorded by Governor Peter Obi administration across the State. The Unions Executives were speaking at a Dinner at the Governor’s Lodge Amawbia at the weekend, after a tour of some projects initiated and completed by the present administration.
The State Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Comrade Patrick Obianyo said he was particular impressed with the Governor’s commitment and huge success recorded in opening up rural and community roads which he noted will boost socio-economic activities at the grass root. He observed that the Governor fall into the category of leaders who are providing for the future and stated that posterity will continue to appreciate his laudable achievements noting that various honours, awards and appointments given to the Governor were in recognition and appreciation of these achievements . He also recalled that the Governor has increased workers salary several times however, appealed to him to consider the request presented by the workers to give them succor and leverage to confront the economic reality of the day.
A former State Chairman of the NLC, Comrade Anthony Ugozo said they visited many completed projects in various parts of the State and marveled at high number of projects executed in various sectors.
Also speaking, Comrade Peter Okafor of the Trade Union Congress said they were overwhelmed with the high standard and quality of bridges and roads constructed by the Governor. He recalled the commendable efforts of the Governor in giving the late Ikemba Nnewi a befitting and celebrated funeral rites never witnessed before in this part of the world.
Responding, Governor Obi assured that he will sustain discipline, transparent and prudent management of State resources and will continue to promote the welfare of workers within available resources and expressed satisfaction with the prevail industrial harmony in the State.
While thanking the workers for their immense contributions towards uplifting the State, he repeated the call for the collapse of the cost of governance and curtailing of act of borrowing to finance consumption to avert future financial crisis.
MONORAIL FOR ONITSHA
Monday, April 16, 2012
Monday, April 16, 2012
Anambra State Government has signed an agreement with the GLOBIM
Corporation for the construction of Onitsha Metropolitan Monorail. The
ceremony took place in the Governor’s conference room, Government House
Awka. The project which will be executed under Public, Private
Partnership arrangement will cover Onitsha and extend to Nkpor and
Obosi.
Governor Peter Obi signed for the State government while the Chairman of Globim, Dr. Jude Igwemezie signed for the cooperation.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Obi noted that high volume commercial and other socio-economic activities in Onitsha and environs required a structural transport system that would provide alternative and reduce the over dependence on road transportation. He said this would, among other things, solve the problem of traffic congestion and enhance movement of people in the area.
The Commissioner for Special duties and Transport, Mr. Robort okonkwo said the feasible study conducted confirmed that the project was feasible and viable.
The Chairman of the corporation, Dr. Igwemezie said they were encouraged to embark on the project because of the conducive business environment across the State, assuring that they would execute a model project that would remain a reference point in this part of the world and would cover all the specified areas.
It will be recalled that the State Government in November 2010 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the company to conduct a feasibility study on the project.
Governor Peter Obi signed for the State government while the Chairman of Globim, Dr. Jude Igwemezie signed for the cooperation.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Obi noted that high volume commercial and other socio-economic activities in Onitsha and environs required a structural transport system that would provide alternative and reduce the over dependence on road transportation. He said this would, among other things, solve the problem of traffic congestion and enhance movement of people in the area.
The Commissioner for Special duties and Transport, Mr. Robort okonkwo said the feasible study conducted confirmed that the project was feasible and viable.
The Chairman of the corporation, Dr. Igwemezie said they were encouraged to embark on the project because of the conducive business environment across the State, assuring that they would execute a model project that would remain a reference point in this part of the world and would cover all the specified areas.
It will be recalled that the State Government in November 2010 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the company to conduct a feasibility study on the project.
OBI ATTRACTED THE NEW FEDERAL SECRETARIAT TO ANAMBRA- JONATHAN.
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Friday, April 13, 2012
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Friday, April 13, 2012
The foundation stone of the First Federal Secretariat in the State has been laid by President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday. The site for the new Secretariat is opposite the phase 1 and phase 2 new gigantic Jerome Udorji State Secretariat, Awka, built by Governor peter Obi. It will be completed within twenty-four months.
The Secretariat is one of the six new Federal Secretariats approved by the Federal Government that when completed will bring the number of Federal Secretariats to twenty-nine.
Performing the ceremony, President Jonathan, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Pius Anyim Pius Anyim commended the ultra modern State Secretariat complex built by Governor Obi administration. He also congratulated the Governor on attracting the Federal Secretariat twenty-one years after the State was created by distinguishing himself in service and by being close in a responsible manner to the Federal Government.
The President noted that under the Governor’s Administration, the State has continued to harness Federal Government presence and extolled the Governors for his maturity and non-partisan disposition to issues national development.
He observed that the Governor has taken impressive and made clear difference in governance, urging other State Governors to emulate Governor Obi in cooperating with the Federal Government to promote collaboration among all tiers of government.
Governor Obi, while thanking the President for his commitment to the transformation Agenda, recalled that the State had no Secretariat on his assumption of office and his government was able to complete the two phases of the secretariat complex within three years.
He announced that the State government will dualize the access road to the secretariat, provide all other necessary support that will facilitate early completion of the project as well as start the government house , Court building and Chief Judge’s house in few months and to be completed by his Governemnt.
The Governor charged the contractor to live up to expectations as State government will maintain regular and strict supervision to ensure that it is completed on schedule and according to specifications.
The Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs Amal Pepple extolled the untiring efforts of Governor Obi to take the State to greater heights with multi-sectoral development projects doting all parts of the State.
Miss Pepple assured that the Ministry will work with other agencies to ensure early completion of the project while the necessary funding will be provided.
ANAMBRA HAS CHANGED A LOT – BISHOP
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The Methodist Bishop of Onitsha, Rt. Rev. Dr. Sunday Eze said that comparing Anambra of yesterday and that of today under Governor Peter Obi was like comparing light and darkness. He said this yesterday while commending Governor Obi for what he is doing in the State, when he led the Methodist Diocese to pay a courtesy visit to the Governor at Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia to brief him on the forth-coming conference of bishops(70) of Methodist Church in Nigeria , which will also commemorate 106 years of the Church in this part of the country.
In the words of Bishop Eze, “We thank God for the life of our Governor and what God is using him to do in the State. It is only a person that does not live under Anambra of old that will not appreciate the tremendous transformation that has taken place in the State. Because of the person that the Governor is – committed and God-fearing – the Federal Government had to honour him with a National honours, and he is eminently qualified for the honour.”
Speaking further, Bishop Eze who thanked the Governor for taken care of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in his last days and for according him a befitting funeral, lauded his Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS). He described it as a wonderful tool of developing all sectors and said it had made Anambra under Obi to be among the number one state in the Federation.
In another development, the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke has called on the youth to embrace positive values for the well-being of the society. He said this yesterday when he led group of youths from Holy family parish, Brooklyn, USA, who were on pilgrimage to the Archdiocese of Onitsha. He prayed to God to continue to guide and guard the governor in the wonderful work he is doing in the State.
Responding, Gov. Obi thanked the Church for their contributions to nation-building and character formation. He said his Government would continue to work with them for her progress, moral development and spiritual well-being.
GOV OBI MAKES CASE FOR EFFECTIVE WATER TRANSPORTATION IN NIGERIA
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Anambra governor Peter Obi has said that efficient inland water transportation is necessary in the transformation of the national economy to actualise Vision 20 20 20.
Obi
said this when the management team of the Federal Inland Waterways
Authority paid him a courtesy visit at government house Awka yesterday.
He said that the country needed effective water transportation at this
time as a critical component in strengthening the entire national
transport system and easy movement of goods and people from one part of
the country to another.
Obi
regretted that the absence of functional water transportation had
placed a heavy burden on road transportation, leading to early collapse
of many roads across the country.
The
governor said that Onitsha as the hub of commercial and economic
activity required direct transportation of goods from the various ports
across the country through transhipment. He called the attention of
the authorities to the indiscriminate allocation of water fronts in
Onitsha to traders to build shops and other structures that threaten
the environment and destroy the state government’s beautification
programme and urged them to recover the area.
The managing director of the authority, Mr. Ahmed Yar’adua, said the country was blessed with over 3, 000 klms of waterways covering over 28 states and said that if well harnessed would boost effective water transportation in the country.
Yar’adua explained that the lower Niger had been dredged and could now
take barges from Baro, Lokoja, Oguta and other ports, while the
Onitsha water port had been rehabilitated and awaiting commissioning by
the president.
JUDICIARY IS PART OF ANIDS – OBI
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Gov. Peter Obi has said that he would continue to pay attention to the growth and development of the Judiciary for it to serve the people of the State well as critical part of Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS) programme of the State. He said this yesterday while swearing-in the Acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Samuel Nwachukwu Okoye following the retirement of the President of that court, Justice Chinwe Amaechi
Gov. Obi commended the out-going President, Justice Chinwe Amaechi for serving the state creditably. He wished him well in his future endeavours and called on the Acting President to remain focused and committed to the growth of the judiciary in the State. He said that the judiciary was important and necessary to the growth and development of societies and called on them to be alive to their responsibilities.
Responding, the new Acting President, Justice Okoye, thanked the Governor for abiding by the constitution and finding him worthy to serve and contribute to the development of the state and dispensation of justice. He promised his loyalty and diligence both to the state and judicial system.
Later in as interview, the out-going President, Justice Amaechi, enjoined the new Acting President to stand on the already recorded achievements in the customary court of appeal by Governor Peter Obi and carry every body along in the discharge of his duties as a father.
On his part, the member representing Onitsha North I in the state Assembly and Chairman House Committee on judiciary, Mr. Chigbo Enwezor thanked Governor Obi for the wonderful work he is doing in the State. He thanked him for the provision of the new imposing Customary Court of Appeal building, his attracting the Federal Court of Appeal to the State and the efforts he is making to attract the Federal Court of Appeal.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Gov. Peter Obi has said that he would continue to pay attention to the growth and development of the Judiciary for it to serve the people of the State well as critical part of Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS) programme of the State. He said this yesterday while swearing-in the Acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Samuel Nwachukwu Okoye following the retirement of the President of that court, Justice Chinwe Amaechi
Gov. Obi commended the out-going President, Justice Chinwe Amaechi for serving the state creditably. He wished him well in his future endeavours and called on the Acting President to remain focused and committed to the growth of the judiciary in the State. He said that the judiciary was important and necessary to the growth and development of societies and called on them to be alive to their responsibilities.
Responding, the new Acting President, Justice Okoye, thanked the Governor for abiding by the constitution and finding him worthy to serve and contribute to the development of the state and dispensation of justice. He promised his loyalty and diligence both to the state and judicial system.
Later in as interview, the out-going President, Justice Amaechi, enjoined the new Acting President to stand on the already recorded achievements in the customary court of appeal by Governor Peter Obi and carry every body along in the discharge of his duties as a father.
On his part, the member representing Onitsha North I in the state Assembly and Chairman House Committee on judiciary, Mr. Chigbo Enwezor thanked Governor Obi for the wonderful work he is doing in the State. He thanked him for the provision of the new imposing Customary Court of Appeal building, his attracting the Federal Court of Appeal to the State and the efforts he is making to attract the Federal Court of Appeal.
OBI CONCLUDES LOCAL GOVERNMENT TOURS, CALLS FOR RENEWAL
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Governor Peter Obi has warned politicians against politics of self destruction. Governor Obi was speaking at Ekwulobia where he concluded the tours of all the Local Government Areas in the State. The Governor said that politics that negated due process and rule of law was a threat to the stability and safety of the society.
He said that what Anambra needed at this time is for the people of the State to re-order thier thinking to be in line with what will be of benefit to the State.
He regretted that after government has built and equip schools to bring qualitative education to the door steps of every child, some politicians instead of encouraging children and the youth to acquire education, chose to use them as thugs to achieve their political interest without considering the long term sad consequences.
Governor Obi said the tour of Local Government Areas had enabled him to listen to the people, identify their problems as well harness their input in government. He declared that he would embark on such tour every three months to meet the people one-on-one.
Gov. Obi took the opportunity of the tour to tell the people of what his Government was doing in various area and what the Government had concluded plans to do as part of the measures to change the State.
During the tour, new members that joined APGA were received in all the local Governemnts. At Onitsha South, the new members represented by Sir Ifeanyi Aziwe said they left their former parties to APGA because of the outstanding achievements of Governor Peter Obi and his sustained efforts to uplift the life of the people.
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Governor Peter Obi has warned politicians against politics of self destruction. Governor Obi was speaking at Ekwulobia where he concluded the tours of all the Local Government Areas in the State. The Governor said that politics that negated due process and rule of law was a threat to the stability and safety of the society.
He said that what Anambra needed at this time is for the people of the State to re-order thier thinking to be in line with what will be of benefit to the State.
He regretted that after government has built and equip schools to bring qualitative education to the door steps of every child, some politicians instead of encouraging children and the youth to acquire education, chose to use them as thugs to achieve their political interest without considering the long term sad consequences.
Governor Obi said the tour of Local Government Areas had enabled him to listen to the people, identify their problems as well harness their input in government. He declared that he would embark on such tour every three months to meet the people one-on-one.
Gov. Obi took the opportunity of the tour to tell the people of what his Government was doing in various area and what the Government had concluded plans to do as part of the measures to change the State.
During the tour, new members that joined APGA were received in all the local Governemnts. At Onitsha South, the new members represented by Sir Ifeanyi Aziwe said they left their former parties to APGA because of the outstanding achievements of Governor Peter Obi and his sustained efforts to uplift the life of the people.
OBI CONDEMNS KADUNA BOMBING
Monday, April 10, 2012
Gov. Peter Obi has condemned the Easter day bombing that took place at Kaduna saying that it negates the sprite of Easter, whereby humanity is called in a special way to emulate the virtues of Christ, who taught us the importance of the life of service and love of our neighbour.
He said that instead of harnessing the celebration to bring our people closer to one another in the spirit of love and understanding, some people chose, instead, to use it to promote the culture of hate.
Obi said that the consequences of promoting such a culture transcended religious affiliation, insisting that what it would lead to would affect all strata and people in the society irrespective of religion affiliations.
He called on those behind the series of violence in the country to have a rethink. He also prayed to God to for continued peace in the country and to continue to grant President Goodluck Jonathan the wisdom to steer to ship of the State to safe anchor.
Monday, April 10, 2012
Gov. Peter Obi has condemned the Easter day bombing that took place at Kaduna saying that it negates the sprite of Easter, whereby humanity is called in a special way to emulate the virtues of Christ, who taught us the importance of the life of service and love of our neighbour.
He said that instead of harnessing the celebration to bring our people closer to one another in the spirit of love and understanding, some people chose, instead, to use it to promote the culture of hate.
Obi said that the consequences of promoting such a culture transcended religious affiliation, insisting that what it would lead to would affect all strata and people in the society irrespective of religion affiliations.
He called on those behind the series of violence in the country to have a rethink. He also prayed to God to for continued peace in the country and to continue to grant President Goodluck Jonathan the wisdom to steer to ship of the State to safe anchor.
GOVERNOR PETER OBI’S 2012 EASTER MESSAGE
Saturday, April 7, 2012
The celebration of Easter reminds Christians of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which forms the basis of Christianity.
As we celebrate this year’s Easter, we are called in a special way to emulate the virtues of Christ, who taught us the importance of the life of service and love of our neighbour.
May this celebration bring our people closer in the spirit of love and understanding. May we also pray in a special way for continued peace in our State and the country at large as we give thanks to God for His many blessings.
On behalf of the people of Anambra, I send my best wishes to all Christians for a happy Easter.
Peter Obi
Governor, Anambra State
Saturday, April 7, 2012
The celebration of Easter reminds Christians of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which forms the basis of Christianity.
As we celebrate this year’s Easter, we are called in a special way to emulate the virtues of Christ, who taught us the importance of the life of service and love of our neighbour.
May this celebration bring our people closer in the spirit of love and understanding. May we also pray in a special way for continued peace in our State and the country at large as we give thanks to God for His many blessings.
On behalf of the people of Anambra, I send my best wishes to all Christians for a happy Easter.
Peter Obi
Governor, Anambra State
OBI DECLARES WAR AGAINST HOODLUMS
Friday, April 6, 2012
Gov. Obi has assured the people of Anambra State of his greater resolve to tackle the issue of planned resurgence of armed robbery in the State as evidenced by some attacks in recent times. He said that the hoodlums would never succeed in staging a come back to the State. He was speaking yesterday while inspecting the Divisional Police Headquarters at Ukpor, Nnewi South, which was attacked by armed robbers.
Governor Obi who was conducted round the ramshackled section by the Divisional Police Officer, CSP, Jacob Muri, said security remained a top priority of his administration and reinstated his resolve to continue to work closely with the Police and other security agencies to achieve the set goals.
He said he had taken other serious measures which due to security implications would not be divulged to the public
He announced that Government would rebuild the destroyed station, fence them for greater security as well as continue to encourage and support the Police with necessary logistics to facilitate their operation in the State.
The State Secretary of APGA, Barr. John Okoli Akirika thanked the Governor for remaining committed and responsive to the welfare of the people. He noted that the Governor’s prompt visit to the Police Station and promise to rebuild it in spite the fact that that Police Affairs were federal Government responsibility was a clear testimony of his determination to sustain effective security.
The APGA scribe enjoined politicians who use thugs during elections to be conscious of the implication of their actions.
5 PDP LAWMAKERS SWORN IN AS 2 DECAMP TO APGA
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Thursday, April 5, 2012
The
five members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) whose swearing in
in the state House of Assembly had been delayed as a result of a court
injunction were yesterday finally sworn in by the speaker of the House,
Hon. Chinwe Nwaebili. But it was however the immediate defection of
two of them to APGA immediately after being sworn in that made the news
of the day.
Paulinus
Onyeka from Ekwusigo constituency and John Olibie from Dunukofia state
constituency had moments after being formally admitted to the House,
declared their cross carpeting to the ruling APGA, citing the even
developmental strides of the state governor, Peter Obi, as reason for
their action. “Anambra has not witnessed the type of development it is
witnessing today under Obi. It is only a person that does not have the
interest of the State at heart that would not support and belong to a
performing team”, Olibie said.
The
three other members who were sworn in were Vivian Okadigbo (Oyi),
Obinna Emenaka (Anambra East) and Rebecca Udoji (Awka North). They
however said they were staying put in the PDP.
In
her speech, the speaker said the five members had received their
Certificates of Return from INEC and submitted them to the clerk of the
House together with their declaration of assets. She therefore
directed that they be ushered into the house after which they were
eventually administered oath of office and sworn in to bring the total
number of legislators in the house to 30 which is the maximum.
The
new members who pledged to defend the constitution of Nigeria and
adhere to the rules and regulations of the House were urged by the
speaker to integrate themselves into the system as members of one
family, noting that party affiliation was secondary. She equally urged
them to place emphasis on the interest and well being of the state.
One
of decampees, Barr Paulinus Onyeka from Oyi state Constituency,
expressed gratitude for being sworn in and recognised as a legislator
and said he had decided to join APGA because Gov Peter Obi had
enthroned good governance in the state with equity and justice, noting
that development projects were evenly spread across the state.
He
however drew government’s attention to some roads in his constituency
especially the Nkwo Orifite and Nkwo Nnewi roads which contracts were
awarded some years back but owing to the unseriousness of the
contractors the work had continued to drag.
Another
decampee to APGA, John Olibie from Dunukofia, testified to the good
works of the Obi government and urged the people of the state to rally
round the governor for the unity and progress of the state.
It
will be recalled that recently two members of the Action Congress of
Nigeria (ACN) had equally decamped to APGA for similar reasons.
With
the latest defections APGA now has 18 out of the 30 members in the
house, with more members said to be on the verge of joining the party.
ANAMBRA READS RIOT ACT TO STREET TRADERS
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Thursday, April 5, 2012
The
Anambra State Government has repeated its directives to traders on
both sides of the service lanes between Uga Junction and Bridge-Head
end of the Onitsha-Enugu Expressway to vacate without further delay.
Governor Obi who was speaking while inspecting the lanes said
government was giving them up till one week after Easter celebration
after which necessary measures would be taken to enforce the
directives.
Governor Obi recalled that State government has consistently appealed to the traders for the past three years to leave the area and has equally allocated an alternative site to them at Umunya.
He regretted their occupation has disrupted the on-going reconstruction of the service lanes on both sides of the road which have so far been recovered up to Uga junction and will be extended to Bridge-Head.
The Governor made it clear that government was leaving no stone unturned in beautifying the entire area and giving the entrance into the State a befitting outlook.
Governor Obi enjoined residents of Onitsha and environs to embrace a positive attitude towards environmental friendliness by supporting the state government’s effort to evolve a clean and healthy environment.
He urged them to ensure proper disposal of refuse and avoid dumping waste inside drains as the state government was taking critical measures to check further abuse of the environment.
Governor Obi recalled that State government has consistently appealed to the traders for the past three years to leave the area and has equally allocated an alternative site to them at Umunya.
He regretted their occupation has disrupted the on-going reconstruction of the service lanes on both sides of the road which have so far been recovered up to Uga junction and will be extended to Bridge-Head.
The Governor made it clear that government was leaving no stone unturned in beautifying the entire area and giving the entrance into the State a befitting outlook.
Governor Obi enjoined residents of Onitsha and environs to embrace a positive attitude towards environmental friendliness by supporting the state government’s effort to evolve a clean and healthy environment.
He urged them to ensure proper disposal of refuse and avoid dumping waste inside drains as the state government was taking critical measures to check further abuse of the environment.
LAWMAKERS COMMEND GOV. OBI
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
The member representing Ogbaru 1 constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Chief Benson Nwawulu has charged those aspiring for future leadership to key into Governor Peter Obi’s policies and programmes. Chief Nwawulu was speaking at Ogbaru during the tour of Local governments by Gov. Obi to meet the people of the State and hear their problems first hand. He said the Governor had repositioned the State very well for sustainable development through the multi-sectoral and comprehensive strategy that touched all facets of the State economy.
He noted the Zik’s prize for Good Governance awarded to the Governor recently was a clear testimony of his outstanding leadership qualities and commitment to entrenching good governance principles.
Chief Nwawulu noted that the Award will remain a source of pride and moral booster to the people of the State.
Speaking in a similar vein at Onitsha, the member representing Onitsha North 1 in the State Assembly, Mr. Chigbo Enweuzor observed that for the first time, the State was lucky to have an administration that has give governance a human face.
Mr Enweuzo explained that the Governor has continued to carry everybody along and has widened scope of opportunities for people to make input in governance.
The State Secretary of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr. John Okoli-Akirika said for the first time, the state had a Governor who was not facing future elections and has continued to diligently serve the people.
Mr. Okoli-Akirika said APGA was further consolidating its dominance in the State while urging the people to reciprocate the Governor’s dedicated service by giving him and APGA total support, discharging their civic responsibility promptly and protecting government facility in their areas
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
The member representing Ogbaru 1 constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Chief Benson Nwawulu has charged those aspiring for future leadership to key into Governor Peter Obi’s policies and programmes. Chief Nwawulu was speaking at Ogbaru during the tour of Local governments by Gov. Obi to meet the people of the State and hear their problems first hand. He said the Governor had repositioned the State very well for sustainable development through the multi-sectoral and comprehensive strategy that touched all facets of the State economy.
He noted the Zik’s prize for Good Governance awarded to the Governor recently was a clear testimony of his outstanding leadership qualities and commitment to entrenching good governance principles.
Chief Nwawulu noted that the Award will remain a source of pride and moral booster to the people of the State.
Speaking in a similar vein at Onitsha, the member representing Onitsha North 1 in the State Assembly, Mr. Chigbo Enweuzor observed that for the first time, the State was lucky to have an administration that has give governance a human face.
Mr Enweuzo explained that the Governor has continued to carry everybody along and has widened scope of opportunities for people to make input in governance.
The State Secretary of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr. John Okoli-Akirika said for the first time, the state had a Governor who was not facing future elections and has continued to diligently serve the people.
Mr. Okoli-Akirika said APGA was further consolidating its dominance in the State while urging the people to reciprocate the Governor’s dedicated service by giving him and APGA total support, discharging their civic responsibility promptly and protecting government facility in their areas
IT IS GOOD TO EXPERIENCE POWER FAILURE – OBI
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Gov.
Peter Obi of Anambra said that it was good to experience power failure
in Nigeria since such occurrences expose those in authority, like
himself, to experience what Nigerians were undergoing. He insisted that
such experiences encourage them to work harder towards solving the
problem. He appealed to Nigerians to be patience and assured that the
Government of President Goodluck Jonathan was working round the clock to
get the power sector right. He was speaking at the office of the
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Millennium Development
Goals, Dr. precious Gbene-ol at the federal Secretariat on Tuesday
morning, when they met half way in darkness and had to later relocate
to the meeting room of Protea Hotel, Asokoro to complete the meeting.
Speaking
during the meeting, the Governor said that Anambra State was set to
meet the Millennium Development Goals by the year 2015. Obi said that
his Government had always been interested in the Millennium Development
Goals that prompted Anambra State under him to adopt those goals as
the vision of the State.
Obi
explained the efforts his government is making towards achieving
various MDG goals. In the area of health, he said that 120 out of the
170 communities in Anambra State now had primary health care centres,
each Local Government Area a General Hospital for referral cases and
that the State had almost completed her Teaching hospital as well as got
some hospitals and health institutions in the State accredited by
relevant authorities now unlike what it used to be. He also said that
plans had been completed and that cheques would be given out on Friday
to some mission hospitals to build a total of 10 hostels in their
various health institutions to strengthen those areas to produce
quality personnel for the health institutions in the State.
In
the area of education, he said his Government had done a lot, starting
from rehabilitation of schools, provision of infrastructure such as
functional laboratories and the recent return of schools to their
missionary owners with the grant of 6 billion Naira to them to
rehabilitate those schools and return them to the centre of excellence
they used to be.
In
the area of poverty eradication, Obi said that the State had
successfully done poverty mapping to know the poorest parts of the
State and that his government was working hard to remedy their
situation. Given example with Anambra West Local Government, he said
his Government was the first to start construction of road in the area
to open it up to development.
Explaining
while he decided to visit the office of the Senior Special Assistant
to the President on the MDG goals, Obi aid it was informed by his
belief that the Government of Anambra State needed to work closely with
the office for the good of the people of the State. “I am ready to
visit any institution that has the capacity to assist us in what we are
doing in Anambra State,” he submitted.
In
his earlier remarks, Dr Gbene-ol thanked the Governor for visiting
them. She thanked the Governor for working closely with the MDG office
and for paying his counterpart funding. She said the office would
strive at all times to strengthen its relationship with the State.
ANAMBRA TO ACCELERATE WORK AT EBENEBE-UGBENE, UGBENU-OBA-OFEMILI ROAD
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Monday, April 2, 2012
Governor Peter Obi said that work on the Amansea-Ebenebe-Obaofemili road would be accelerated now the Ezu Bridge had been completed and opened for vehicular movement. Governor Obi was speaking while inspecting the completed bridge project, after ridding through the new bridge.
Governor Obi who expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done on the bridge said additional work were being done at the river bank to further protect the project.
He explained that tempo of earthwork, priming and asphalt will be increased until the project is completed at Obaofemili while the in-road to the bridge will not be asphalted yet until after six months or one year because of the heavy sand filling which will be allowed to set and cement to avoid cracks.
The Governor said the completion of the bridge had opened up easy access to communities in Awka North and will boost socio-economic activities in the area.
Governor Obi recalled that contrary to the belief in some quarters that the project would be impossible to execute, the State government had completed it with best quality standard that would stand the test of time.
A catholic clergy, Reverend Father Michael Nwoye expressed gratitude to the Governor for completing the project and saving the people of the area from years of suffering and hardship.
Reverend father Nwoye assured that the Church would continue to pray for the Governor to complete his vision for the State.
Ijeoma Nnodum, Awka
Monday, April 2, 2012
Governor Peter Obi said that work on the Amansea-Ebenebe-Obaofemili road would be accelerated now the Ezu Bridge had been completed and opened for vehicular movement. Governor Obi was speaking while inspecting the completed bridge project, after ridding through the new bridge.
Governor Obi who expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done on the bridge said additional work were being done at the river bank to further protect the project.
He explained that tempo of earthwork, priming and asphalt will be increased until the project is completed at Obaofemili while the in-road to the bridge will not be asphalted yet until after six months or one year because of the heavy sand filling which will be allowed to set and cement to avoid cracks.
The Governor said the completion of the bridge had opened up easy access to communities in Awka North and will boost socio-economic activities in the area.
Governor Obi recalled that contrary to the belief in some quarters that the project would be impossible to execute, the State government had completed it with best quality standard that would stand the test of time.
A catholic clergy, Reverend Father Michael Nwoye expressed gratitude to the Governor for completing the project and saving the people of the area from years of suffering and hardship.
Reverend father Nwoye assured that the Church would continue to pray for the Governor to complete his vision for the State.
GOVERNOR OBI THREATENS TO SACK NON-PERFORMING CONTRACTORS
Monday, April 2, 2012
Monday, April 2, 2012
Coming
on the wake of the revoking some of the road contracts in the state,
including Ajalli-Ogboji-Agulu-Ezechukwu, road revoked from Brecco and
re-awarded to Niger Cart. Governor Obi had threatened to revoke more
road contracts that are non-performing. Obi said this yesterday during
the road inspection of ongoing road contracts at Ihialla and Nnewi axis
of the state.
Obi
expressed satisfaction with the on-going work at the sites, including
Nnobi –Nnewi,Osungwo- Nkwo Okija, Adazi-Oraukwu and Ichi roads. He
expressed satisfaction at the pace and quality of work. He said that
though he was satisfied that the state had ordered Coring Machines with
which the State would measure to ensure conformation with contract
specifications.
Governor
Obi who said that government did not owe any contractor, called on all
communities where there projects are going on to take charge and
monitor their execution and report cases of failure on the part of the
contractors to government. He explained that there is dry season that
the contractors must all live up to expectations and make maximum use
of the period.
At
the inspection of the Osungwo-Nkwo Okija road with some bridges, Obi
expressed happiness that the road was 99% completed. He said that in
the second phase of the road, it would be connected to Ogbaru areas. He
explained that the decision to construct the road was to open up the
area that has vast Agricultural potentials.
At the Ichi road, the Governor charged the contractor, Hammakopp Construction, to hasten work on the road so that the rainy season would not catch up with it.
At the Nnobi – Nnewi road, Obi explained that the deep excavation and big culvert being constructed was to take care of the heavy flooding that has remained its bane.
Speaking, the representative of the contractor, IDRC Company, Mr. Chaid said they were challenged to quicken action on the road because of evident commitment of Governor Obi to projects going on in the State and because he also paid them promptly.
At the Ichi road, the Governor charged the contractor, Hammakopp Construction, to hasten work on the road so that the rainy season would not catch up with it.
At the Nnobi – Nnewi road, Obi explained that the deep excavation and big culvert being constructed was to take care of the heavy flooding that has remained its bane.
Speaking, the representative of the contractor, IDRC Company, Mr. Chaid said they were challenged to quicken action on the road because of evident commitment of Governor Obi to projects going on in the State and because he also paid them promptly.
ANAMBRA’S GIANT LEAP TOWARDS INDEPENDENT POWER PROJECT
Monday, April 2, 2012
Going
by the situation on ground, Anambra State would soon join the league
of States that have built an Independent power plant in the country.
Gov. Obi led a delegation from Anambra, including other parties in the power project (125MW) to Bahrain, to inspect the construction of the power badges and for further discussions with the parties, which includes the Senior Management of Arab Shipbuilding and Repairs Yard Company (ASRY); the delegation from Centrax ltd, UK, the oldest Gas turbines company in the world, formed 65 years ago; the delegation from Eaglefin Structures Finance Mauritius LTD.
While conducting the delegation around the facilities of the company, particularly to inspect two badges meant for Anambra that are under construction, the Chief Executive of Arab Shipbuilding and Repairs Yard Company (ASRY), Mr. Chris Potter said that the starting of work at the badges was to show their commitment , faith and confidence in the project. He said that the advantage of the badges was that the facility would be 100% percent manufactured, tested before shipping to Anambra. He said it could be re-possessed, towed or ship-lifted to any part of the world.
Explaining the geometry of its construction, Mr. Peter Thornton said it had dual fuel capability of Gas and Liquid with fuel badge option.
On his own part, the Director of Centrax Ltd, a privately owned oldest turbine Industry in the world, Mr. Guy West said that they would produce the best turbine for Anambra that would meet international standards in all its ramifications. He said they could not do otherwise going by their experience, having started production of industrial turbines since 1961. He said that the engine for the actual generation of power would be manufactured by Rolls Royce famed for quality and durability.
Responding, Gov. Obi said that he was impressed by what he saw but that there was need to define things properly as to know when each stage of the work would be completed and when the entire project would be finished. He said that going by the commitment of President Goodluck Jonathan to solving power problem in the country and the move towards deregulation of that sector, that he did not envisage any problems or delays on the part of Government.
On Gov. Obi’s delegation are the Hon. Commissioner for Utilities, Dr. Joseph Nwankwu, Mr. Alfred Nwosu, Don Dunu and Mr Dennis Okafor (DENCAN).
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