By Izunna Okafor, Awka
Anambra-born philanthropist and MD/CEO of the Walata Consults and Services Ltd., Hon. Stanley Nwabueze Okafor, has distributed over two thousand exercise books to various primary schools in parts of Nnewi South Local Government Area of the state.
Also distributed by the philanthropist were over two hundred school bags, for the benefit of needy school children in the area.
The handover of the donated items, which held on Thursday at the Eziojukwu Primary School, Utuh, attracted the Headteachers of all the 31 government primary schools in the six communities that make up the Nnewi South I Constituency, whose schools are the beneficiaries of the gesture.
Speaking on the essence of the gesture, the benefactor, Hon. Okafor, explained that his objectives were primarily to promote education, support underprivileged children, and provide them with basic learning materials that would ease their academic pursuits.
He advocated the need for well-meaning individuals to focus on supporting and uplifting education, especially in rural communities, while also noting that such interventions are pivotal in bridging the gap between urban and rural educational standards.
According to him, education remains the foundation of societal growth, and investing in children’s education today guarantees a brighter future for the community and the nation at large.
Hon. Okafor recalled how, during the just-past rainy season, he saw some school children going home under the rain, with some folding or hiding their books inside their school uniforms, while others tied their books with nylons, and some carried their drenched books in torn or worn-out school bags.
This, he said, worried him deeply, and he felt touched by the plight of these school children, which spurred him to make the donation as his contribution to alleviating their struggles.
According to him, this donation is part of his ongoing efforts to support education, adding that earlier this year, through his Foundation, he paid the First School Leaving Certificate Examination (FSLCE) registration fees for 62 children from 31 government primary schools in the Nnewi South Constituency I.
When asked if his actions had any political undertones, Hon. Okafor clarified that all his humanitarian services are divine directives and assignments from God, whom, he said, is the inspiration behind every philanthropic gesture he embarks on.
He further urged every privileged or well-to-do individual to always assist the needy around them in any way they can, emphasizing that such acts attract divine blessings.
“I am a living testimony of how giving to others opens unimaginable doors,” he remarked.
The humanitarian, who confessed his love for education and his advocacy for “catching them young” and starting early to prepare children for the future, urged parents not to sacrifice the education of their children on the altar of money. He emphasized that the importance of education for every child can never be overemphasized, calling it the most valuable investment for any family or society.
Concluding, Hon. Okafor emphasized that his Walata Humanitarian Foundation remains committed to impacting lives, promoting welfare, and facilitating lasting solutions to some pressing issues, particularly in education, healthcare, and community development. He also commended his family, friends, and supporters for their encouragement, which, he said, has been crucial in enabling him to pursue and sustain his vision.
He assured the public of his steadfast commitment to upholding the selfless gesture of serving God and humanity with his God-given wealth.
This reporter, Izunna Okafor, gathered that the Walata Humanitarian Foundation has implemented numerous projects addressing the welfare of vulnerable populations. Through its scholarship programs, the Foundation has enabled hundreds of children to pursue education. Its healthcare initiatives have also provided essential services to underserved areas, including medical screenings, treatment, and support for chronic illnesses.
Moreover, the Foundation has supported skill acquisition programs, empowering young people and women with entrepreneurial skills to improve their livelihoods. These sustained efforts captions Hon. Okafor’s vision of a society where every individual has equal opportunities to thrive, irrespective of their background or socio-economic statuses.
The detained President-General of Okuama Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Pa James Achovwuko Oghoroko is dead.
Oghoroko, one of the community leaders arrested by the Nigerian military since August 2024, reportedly died in the military detention on Wednesday.
According to top sources, he died following excessive torture and alleged inhumane treatment.
News of Pa Oghoroko’s death was broken on Thursday by leaders of Okuama at an emergency meeting of the Community.
The community leaders also decried that another detained leader, “Pa Dennis Okugbaye, is presently battling with a life-threatening ailment in the undisclosed military facility”.
Newsmen learnt that the news of Pa Oghoroko’s death has thrown the entire Okuama community into mourning.
The Okuama community, had in August this year, through their lawyers filed suit No: FHC/WR/CS/84/2024 between James Oghorokor and other versus the Nigerian Army and two others “demanding N100million for their illegal detention”.
The community had earlier, on the heels of the demolition and destruction of Okuama community after the killing of 17 soldiers, approached the Federal High Court, Warri, through their lawyers led by Chief Albert Akpomudje SAN and others, to seek redress.
The community through their learned Counsel filed Suit No. FHC/WR/CS/41/2024, FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, and FHC/WR/CS/42/2024, the suits are now being consolidated.
At its last sitting on 20th November, 2024, the Federal High Court had adjourned the bail application of the arrested leaders to the 9th December, 2024 to hear the motion.
However, before the return date, one of the Claimants, Pa Oghoroko, was said to have given up the ghost on Wednesday, 4th December, 2024 in the military detention without being charged to court since their arrest in August.
Meanwhile, Chief Albert Akpomudje SAN, who is leading the community’s legal team has described the news of the PG’s death as “disturbing”, adding that he “will meet with the family members and his team to know what steps to take next”.
There was a fire outbreak in Aba the commercial nerve centre of Abia State.
The incident happened at Umuocham Road by Sweet Eatery, World Bank Housing Estate.
Property and goods worth millions of naira were on Thursday destroyed as fire engulfed the eatery.
The inferno has left residents and business owners in distress.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that one of the victims, whose property was affected, had suffered a similar fire incident in her residential home just last month.
Abia State Fire Service officials swiftly responded to the scene, which caused significant property damage.
An eyewitness at the scene, Tochukwu Ogbuagu urged the public to prioritize safety measures, particularly turning off electrical appliances and sockets before leaving their shops or homes, to prevent such tragic occurrences in the future.
Attempts to speak with officials of the fire service failed as they said only “our boss can speak at the office” as of the time of filing this report.
By Okey Maduforo Awka.
Anambra state government is to spend the sum of N 13 Billion on the establishment of twenty two Smart Schools aimed at making the youths in the area professionals for export.
This is coming as the Anambra Patriots For Soludo APS has commenced sensitization programs for the 179 Communities through their President Generals in the area.
Also the APS is also carrying out sensitization programs for the leadership of the 340 market leaders in the three Senatorial Districts of the state.
Disclosing this during a visit by the Anambra Patriots For Soludo the Special Adviser to Soludo on political matters Dr Alex Obiogbolu noted that the aim for the establishment of twenty two Smart Schools is to empower the youths of the state to be self employed and br able to export their businesses outside the state globally.
“Yesterday the Anambra State Executive Council approved the establishment of twenty two Smart Schools on ICT innovations*
“It is not just having internet but also having a complete ICT system in terms of electronic boards of infrastructure the lab tops and innovative labs ”
“The cost of the program is not just appropriating N13 Billion for the project but to put in place what could be described as Model Schools ”
“This is part of the move to drive a digital tribe through a new generation of youths and this is a deliberate policy of of making Anambra state the Silicon valley of Nigeria and that means that the youths can be at the productive labs of their homes in Anambra and be exporting his or her talents abroad and be earning dollars ” he said.
Speaking earlier the Chairman of Anambra Patriots For Soludo Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi noted that the support group for Soludo’s second term in office is a departure from the usual groups as the body is self funding and do not need financial assistance from the state government.
“We have commenced sensitization of the 170 Communities and over 340 major markets in the state through their President Generals on the achievements of Gov Charles Soludo and we are not demanding any kind of financial assistance from him or the state government ” he said.
The Special Adviser to the governor on Markets Chief Evarist Uba who also received the body at his office described the move by the body as one that would have multiplayer effects on the electorates in the state adding that the body has his full support and that of the markets the state towards evangelization of the achievements of the governor.
By Izunna Okafor, Awka
A 47-year-old Chinese National, simply identified as Babajeje, has been arrested alongside five other persons over suspected illegal mining in Anambra State.
The Spokesperson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, SC Okadigbo Edwin disclosed this in a statement to newsmen on Thursday in Awka, in which he also revealed that the suspects were arrested by the NSCDC operatives, in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer, Anambra State, Henry Bolarinwa.
SC Edwin gave the names of the other five suspects as Udoka Nwankwo (male, aged 25), Amaka Samuel (female, aged 18), Onyi Ijeoma (female, aged 45), Chimezie Aniefuna (male, aged 25), and Chinaza Omrba (female, aged 18).
He noted that the suspect who were arrested following a tip-off on their operations at an illegal mining site at Odele Aguleri, in Anambra East Local Government Area, were paraded on Thursday at the State’s NSCDC Command Headquarters in Awka by the State’s Commandant of the NSCDC, Commandant Maku Olatunde.
SC Edwin, in the statement, further quoted the State Commandant as saying: “In our resolute and determination to discharge our statutory mandate in sanitizing the mining sector in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, we cracked down on these illegal miners siphoning the nation’s resources, causing revenue losses to the Federal Government.
“These suspected illegal miners were apprehended on Thursday 5th of December, 2024 at about 11:40 hours for not obtaining licence that permits them to operate, mining without paying surface rents and haulage fees to the State Government, and royalties to the coffers of the Federal Government, contrary to section 33 of Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2027.”
Continuing, the NSCDC Spokesman quoted Commandant Maku as saying that the suspects are presently undergoing investigation, and upon its conclusion, will be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction to face possible prosecution.
SC Edwin also noted that, while speaking during the parading of the suspects, the Federal Mines Officer of the State, Bolarinwa highlighted the importance of synergy between the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, and emphasized that obtaining a valid license from the Ministry and seeking proper guidance are crucial for anyone interested in mining.
According to SC Edwin, “Bolarinwa warned the public to request evidence of licenses from mining site owners and proof of royalty payments to the government. He stressed that this warning is necessary to prevent revenue losses and environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.”
By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Igbo indigenes residing in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, under the aegis of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), have reiterated the need for unity and improved security in the South-East region.
This was the central message at the association’s 2024 end-of-year celebration, which held recently at Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.
The fun-filled event, marked with cultural displays, camaraderie, and a renewed call for purposeful leadership, provided an opportunity for the newly elected President-General of ICA, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, to outline his vision for the Igbo community in Abuja and beyond.
Engr. Ellis-Ezenekwe, who made history as the first democratically elected President-General of the association since 1998, emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in advancing the collective interests of Ndị Igbo.
In his address, the ICA President-General urged Igbo indigenes in Abuja to rally around his administration, assuring them of an inclusive leadership that would not only prioritize their welfare but also uphold their values and promote their cultural heritage as a people. He also pledged to foster a harmonious relationship with government authorities and the indigenous communities of the FCT while ensuring that the Igbo agenda remained at the forefront of his leadership.
“Over the last 26years, ICA had set 75 ICA Units across the FCT, with active membership of over 3,000 for each unit. The units stretch from Abaji, to Kwali, to GWARINPA to Lokogoma to Orozo, to Asokoro, Maitama and other communities. We are in a position to help the current administration and in return, be helped by this administration,” Engr. Ezenekwe said.
Continuing, he said, “We are not here to fight with anybody. We will work with the Nyesom Wike Administration as the FCT Minister; we will work with the natives of the FCT. What we want is not conflict, but development and progress for all —progress for my people and for all.”
The President-General also used the occasion to address the pressing issue of insecurity in the South-East, a concern that has plagued the region for some period of time now. He described the situation as dire and called on federal security agencies to reassess their strategies, emphasizing the need for a more effective, empathetic, and proactive approach to resolving the challenges.
“Too many lives and dreams have been cut short in the southeast due to the ongoing unrest. This is unacceptable. There must be a better way to achieve lasting peace and sustainable security in the South-East,” he said, noting that a peaceful South-East is critical for the prosperity of the entire nation.
Ahead of the 2024 Christmas and new year celebrations, the ICA PG also appealed for heightened security measures during the yuletide season, a period, he noted, many southeasterners would be returning home to celebrate with their families.
“Our prayer is for this period of homecoming to be peaceful. Let it be a season of joy, not one overshadowed by fear or sorrow,” he added.
The event, which attracted dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the Igbo community in their numbers, featured spectacular displays, and culinary delights that showcased the rich Igbo heritage. It also served as a platform to reflect on the progress of the Association over the years and to unveil plans for future community development initiatives.
By Izunna Okafor, Awka
Information reaching the 247UREPORTS has it that airlines will accept expired UK residency permits as valid travel documents until “at least March 31, 2025.”
This decision, which was announced in a statement by the Home Office, follows the outcry on the timing and challenges with the rollout of the UK Government’s eVisa system, which was initially set for completion by December 31.
The transition involves replacing physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), which confirm a person’s right to live, work, and claim benefits in Britain, with digital eVisas. However, campaigners have raised alarms that the system’s shortcomings and timeframe could risk a repeat of the “Windrush” scandal.
The Home Office reported that over six million individuals are already using eVisas, with an additional 3.1 million applications submitted since the change was announced. Despite this progress, the Government has not disclosed how many people are yet to transition to the new system.
Howbeit, the Migration Minister, Seema Malhotra acknowledged the difficulties faced by some individuals in creating an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, particularly those who have lost their BRPs and lack alternative identification.
In a written statement to the Commons, the Minister explained: “We have already made changes to improve the process for these customers, including creating UKVI accounts automatically for newly recognised refugees since November 1.
“But we remain concerned that some of the risks of the rollout, particularly to those making the transition from BRPs and legacy documents, were not clearly identified and managed under the previous administration. We have been consulting stakeholders on other issues raised by them, along with the wider concern that this change could lead to another Windrush.”
Continuing, Malhotra said “To ease the transition, we have decided to allow carriers to accept a BRP or EUSS BRC [EU Settlement Scheme Biometric Residence Card] expiring on or after December 31, 2024, as valid evidence of permission to travel until at least March 31, with this date kept under review.
“Customers travelling in the early part of the year are therefore advised to continue carrying their expired BRP, as this will add to the range of checking options already available to carriers.”
The Home Office clarified that passengers would still undergo standard immigration checks, and individuals with expired immigration status could face entry refusal. It urged those yet to access their eVisa to apply before the end of December.
247UREPORTS gathered that the eVisa proposal, introduced in April under the previous Conservative Administration, was intended to enhance border security and prevent abuse of the immigration system. Despite its aims, the rollout has encountered criticism due to IT glitches that left some individuals unable to access the system, raising fears of people being stranded abroad.
To address these concerns, £4 million has been allocated to assist vulnerable individuals who may struggle to obtain an eVisa without support.
Additionally, critics have highlighted the timing of the rollout on New Year’s Day —a public holiday — as potentially complicating the resolution of immediate issues.
It was also gathered that foreign nationals on “3C leave,” whose rights to work, study, or claim benefits in the UK are protected during ongoing assessments, have also reported error messages when attempting to generate their eVisas; even as employers and landlords often require physical documentation, adding further challenges to these individuals.
The Anambra State Police Command has doled out some safety tips and security advisories to the people of the State ahead of the forthcoming harmattan and festive seasons.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu gave these in a statement issued to newsmen on Thursday, which, he said, are aimed at consolidating on the gains in crime prevention, restoration of law and order and improving the safety and security of lives and property in the State.
The Police Spokesman, who began by urging Ndi Anambra to remain vigilant and committed to supporting security and safety measures, further called on them to report any suspicious activities or information to the nearest police station or via our emergency hotlines on 07039194332 or the PRO 08039334002.
According to him, “The Command frowns at the discreditable conducts of some individuals using tinted vehicles and discourages the use, except if necessary, because of how criminal elements use it to beat security points and attack security operatives in the State.”
“Given the climate change (harmattan Period), you are advised against negligent acts such as uncontrolled bush burning, immoderate dropping of cigarette butts, use of firecrackers and other explosives, careless handling of receptacles for trash, poor handling of electrical appliances and other human actions or inactions capable of causing fire outbreaks or a raging inferno should be avoided,” he also cautioned.
SP Ikenga further warned urged members of the public to desist from engaging in any form of jungle justice and to exercise restraint always. He advised that people should endeavour to take any suspect apprehended to the nearest police station, as this would afford the Police the opportunity to conduct appropriate investigation and bring the suspects to justice.
He also advised motorists to always obey traffic rules, while also reiterating that the ban on the use of fireworks, knockouts, and other explosives during festivities is still in force.
According to him, “The use of knockouts and fireworks, aside from constituting nuisance and disturbance to public peace and safety, is also capable of causing unnecessary fear and apprehension and other dangers associated with its usage, especially during this harmattan period.”
Concluding the Police Spokesman reiterated the Command’s commitment to consolidating on the gains in crime prevention, restoration of law and order and improving the safety and security of lives property in the State, both throughout the festive seasons and beyond.
By Izunna Okafor, Awka
Board of Trustees member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and member of the Alumni Association, Faculty of Business Administration, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Chief Ugochukwu Okeke, has donated great number of quality books to the Faculty Library, as part of his efforts to promote learning.
The donation, which was done in the spirit of giving back to the society, was presented by Chief Okeke, as the Faculty’s alumni association, class of 1994, returned to celebrate their 30th anniversary with impactful gestures of support and generosity to the school.
Held recently at the Faculty of Business Administration, University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC), the event attracted the 1994 graduands from the various departments that make up the faculty, which include Marketing, Accounting, Management, and Banking & Finance Departments.
Speaking during the presentation, Chief Okeke (popularly known as Enyioha) emphasized the importance of alumni giving back to the institution that shaped their lives.
According to him, the alumni of every institution must understand that their contributions and giving back to the school, no matter how small or large, can make a significant difference in the lives of students and the development of the university, while also creating a legacy of excellence and inspiration for generations to come.
“We are proud to be part of this association,” he said, adding that “this gesture is our way of ensuring that future generations benefit as much as we did, and we encourage our fellow graduates to support the university in any possible way they can.”
The anniversary celebration also featured the commissioning of a 20KVA/15KW solar power system to improve lighting in the Faculty by the alumni association, as well as awarding of scholarships to several students, in line with their commitment to supporting education and alleviating some challenges within the Faculty.
Earlier speaking at the event, the President of the Alumni Association, Mr. Ben Ewah, reaffirmed their dedication to giving back.
“We owe so much to this faculty,” he said.
“I strongly encourage every graduate of this great institution to reflect on the opportunities it has afforded us and to find ways to give back, whether through financial support, mentorship, or advocacy for the university’s progress,” he added.
Also speaking, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of UNEC, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, who led a delegation of the University officials and students to receive the alumni and their donations, expressed profound gratitude to the alumni. He described the solar power installation and other contributions as transformative, noting that they would generally improve and greatly enhance the academic environment for students and staff alike.
The event also witnessed an award presentation to distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to the university and the nation, including Chief Emeka Mamah, CEO of Ifesinachi Motors, who joined other alumni in supporting the faculty through financial and material donations, among other humanitarian gestures.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, says his Administration is installing streetlights in all ongoing roads construction in rural areas to improve security.
Wike stated this in Abuja on Wednesday, while inaugurating the construction of a 10.5 kilometre access road, to connect several communities on the Kabusa to Ketti road corridor.
He explained that all the ongoing road construction in satellite towns and rural communities in the FCT were being fitted with streetlights.
The move, according to him, is part of measures to improve security in the nation’s capital city.
“For the first time you can see we are providing roads, and at the same time, providing streetlights.
“We have dualised Kuje township road. Go there in the night and see the streetlights.
“This, in a way, will improve security in the affected communities,” he said.
He reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to reduce the pains of the people, provide a secure environment for farmers to go to their farms and reduce insecurity in the territory.
The minister also announced his approval for the construction of a senior secondary school in Ketti community.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister’s approval was in response to the community’s request, written in a banner during the event.
In the banner, the community thanked the minister for awarding the contract for construction of the Kabusa to Ketti road, and also appealed for the school in the community.
The community had explained that only Kabusa has a senior secondary school in the entire area made up of five communities.
“I have seen what you have written there in the banner. Let me assure you without you even saying it, that Ketti will get a senior secondary school,” the minister said.
Wike explained that the provision of access roads and construction of the senior secondary schools for the community was in fulfillment of President Bola Tinubu’s promise to the people.
Earlier, Mr Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), said that the Kabusa to Ketti access road was a 10.5-kilometre project connecting several communities.
Dauda said that the project, awarded to Tech Oil Global Concept, was expected to be completed in six months.
On his part, Mr Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) said that the construction of the Kabusa to Ketti road would significantly reduce the pains of the residents.
Maikalangu explained that the residents have suffered so much as a result of the poor state of the road, which made it a soft target for kidnappers, armed robbers and bandits.
“The development has caused most of the residents to run away from their homes.
“Sir, it is sad to note that this is where our royal father was kidnapped and killed by kidnappers because the road was very difficult for the security operatives to access.
“Therefore, the construction of the road will be a game changer for the huge population of Nigerians living in the area, thus enhancing socio-economic activities and development in the area,” he said.
He commended the minister for the construction of Saburi, Karimo to Dei-Dei and Life Camp roads all in Zone C of AMAC as well as inaugurating the construction of Kabusa to Takushara and Kabusa to Ketti road in Zone B.
The chairman appealed to the minister to extend the gesture to Nyanya, Karu, Orozo and Karshi communities all in Zone A.
Speaking on the essence of the gesture, the benefactor, Hon. Okafor, explained that his objectives were primarily to promote education, support underprivileged children, and provide them with basic learning materials that would ease their academic pursuits.
He advocated the need for well-meaning individuals to focus on supporting and uplifting education, especially in rural communities, while also noting that such interventions are pivotal in bridging the gap between urban and rural educational standards.
According to him, education remains the foundation of societal growth, and investing in children’s education today guarantees a brighter future for the community and the nation at large.
Hon. Okafor recalled how, during the just-past rainy season, he saw some school children going home under the rain, with some folding or hiding their books inside their school uniforms, while others tied their books with nylons, and some carried their drenched books in torn or worn-out school bags.
This, he said, worried him deeply, and he felt touched by the plight of these school children, which spurred him to make the donation as his contribution to alleviating their struggles.
According to him, this donation is part of his ongoing efforts to support education, adding that earlier this year, through his Foundation, he paid the First School Leaving Certificate Examination (FSLCE) registration fees for 62 children from 31 government primary schools in the Nnewi South Constituency I.
When asked if his actions had any political undertones, Hon. Okafor clarified that all his humanitarian services are divine directives and assignments from God, whom, he said, is the inspiration behind every philanthropic gesture he embarks on.
He further urged every privileged or well-to-do individual to always assist the needy around them in any way they can, emphasizing that such acts attract divine blessings.
“I am a living testimony of how giving to others opens unimaginable doors,” he remarked.
The humanitarian, who confessed his love for education and his advocacy for “catching them young” and starting early to prepare children for the future, urged parents not to sacrifice the education of their children on the altar of money. He emphasized that the importance of education for every child can never be overemphasized, calling it the most valuable investment for any family or society.
Concluding, Hon. Okafor emphasized that his Walata Humanitarian Foundation remains committed to impacting lives, promoting welfare, and facilitating lasting solutions to some pressing issues, particularly in education, healthcare, and community development. He also commended his family, friends, and supporters for their encouragement, which, he said, has been crucial in enabling him to pursue and sustain his vision.
He assured the public of his steadfast commitment to upholding the selfless gesture of serving God and humanity with his God-given wealth.
This reporter, Izunna Okafor, gathered that the Walata Humanitarian Foundation has implemented numerous projects addressing the welfare of vulnerable populations. Through its scholarship programs, the Foundation has enabled hundreds of children to pursue education. Its healthcare initiatives have also provided essential services to underserved areas, including medical screenings, treatment, and support for chronic illnesses.
Moreover, the Foundation has supported skill acquisition programs, empowering young people and women with entrepreneurial skills to improve their livelihoods. These sustained efforts captions Hon. Okafor’s vision of a society where every individual has equal opportunities to thrive, irrespective of their background or socio-economic statuses.
The incident happened at Umuocham Road by Sweet Eatery, World Bank Housing Estate.
Property and goods worth millions of naira were on Thursday destroyed as fire engulfed the eatery.
The inferno has left residents and business owners in distress.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that one of the victims, whose property was affected, had suffered a similar fire incident in her residential home just last month.
Abia State Fire Service officials swiftly responded to the scene, which caused significant property damage.
An eyewitness at the scene, Tochukwu Ogbuagu urged the public to prioritize safety measures, particularly turning off electrical appliances and sockets before leaving their shops or homes, to prevent such tragic occurrences in the future.
Attempts to speak with officials of the fire service failed as they said only “our boss can speak at the office” as of the time of filing this report. 
Also the APS is also carrying out sensitization programs for the leadership of the 340 market leaders in the three Senatorial Districts of the state.
Disclosing this during a visit by the Anambra Patriots For Soludo the Special Adviser to Soludo on political matters Dr Alex Obiogbolu noted that the aim for the establishment of twenty two Smart Schools is to empower the youths of the state to be self employed and br able to export their businesses outside the state globally.
“Yesterday the Anambra State Executive Council approved the establishment of twenty two Smart Schools on ICT innovations*
“It is not just having internet but also having a complete ICT system in terms of electronic boards of infrastructure the lab tops and innovative labs ”
“The cost of the program is not just appropriating N13 Billion for the project but to put in place what could be described as Model Schools ”
“This is part of the move to drive a digital tribe through a new generation of youths and this is a deliberate policy of of making Anambra state the Silicon valley of Nigeria and that means that the youths can be at the productive labs of their homes in Anambra and be exporting his or her talents abroad and be earning dollars ” he said.
Speaking earlier the Chairman of Anambra Patriots For Soludo Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi noted that the support group for Soludo’s second term in office is a departure from the usual groups as the body is self funding and do not need financial assistance from the state government.
“We have commenced sensitization of the 170 Communities and over 340 major markets in the state through their President Generals on the achievements of Gov Charles Soludo and we are not demanding any kind of financial assistance from him or the state government ” he said.
The Special Adviser to the governor on Markets Chief Evarist Uba who also received the body at his office described the move by the body as one that would have multiplayer effects on the electorates in the state adding that the body has his full support and that of the markets the state towards evangelization of the achievements of the governor. 
The Spokesperson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, SC Okadigbo Edwin disclosed this in a statement to newsmen on Thursday in Awka, in which he also revealed that the suspects were arrested by the NSCDC operatives, in collaboration with the Federal Mines Officer, Anambra State, Henry Bolarinwa.
SC Edwin gave the names of the other five suspects as Udoka Nwankwo (male, aged 25), Amaka Samuel (female, aged 18), Onyi Ijeoma (female, aged 45), Chimezie Aniefuna (male, aged 25), and Chinaza Omrba (female, aged 18).
He noted that the suspect who were arrested following a tip-off on their operations at an illegal mining site at Odele Aguleri, in Anambra East Local Government Area, were paraded on Thursday at the State’s NSCDC Command Headquarters in Awka by the State’s Commandant of the NSCDC, Commandant Maku Olatunde.
SC Edwin, in the statement, further quoted the State Commandant as saying: “In our resolute and determination to discharge our statutory mandate in sanitizing the mining sector in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, we cracked down on these illegal miners siphoning the nation’s resources, causing revenue losses to the Federal Government.
“These suspected illegal miners were apprehended on Thursday 5th of December, 2024 at about 11:40 hours for not obtaining licence that permits them to operate, mining without paying surface rents and haulage fees to the State Government, and royalties to the coffers of the Federal Government, contrary to section 33 of Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act 2027.”
Continuing, the NSCDC Spokesman quoted Commandant Maku as saying that the suspects are presently undergoing investigation, and upon its conclusion, will be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction to face possible prosecution.
SC Edwin also noted that, while speaking during the parading of the suspects, the Federal Mines Officer of the State, Bolarinwa highlighted the importance of synergy between the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, and emphasized that obtaining a valid license from the Ministry and seeking proper guidance are crucial for anyone interested in mining.
According to SC Edwin, “Bolarinwa warned the public to request evidence of licenses from mining site owners and proof of royalty payments to the government. He stressed that this warning is necessary to prevent revenue losses and environmental hazards associated with illegal mining activities.”
