Our governor knows what to do,he is the man with wit

80% of Abia IGR unaccounted for by agents -Gov. Orji

Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State has lamented that over 80 per cent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue is unaccounted for by dubious revenue collection agents who sometimes connive with corrupt government officials to fleece public funds.

Orji who made the revaluation in Umuahia at the maiden Abia State Revenue Summit however, noted that the new tax regime introduced by his government would plug all “drainage pipes” by fraudulent agents to siphon public funds.

The visibly angry Governor explained that what the dubious revenue agents did was to simply secure government approval “to collect levies, taxes and revenues and then adopt all kinds of draconian method to collect them.”

Orji expressed dissatisfaction with the mode of operations of the revenue agents saying they lacked human face and civility.

He warned that government would no longer condone their excesses following the public outcry their exploitative actions had generated.

The Governor argued that even though government needed money for developmental projects, the citizenry should not be subjected to slavery and other colonial servitudes to achieve that.

He, therefore enjoined participants at the summit to evolve “a tax blue print that would be acceptable and workable.”

His words: “We want the taxes paid without grudging; it is not the intention of government to impose levies, but having given me your mandate I have to ameliorate your suffering.

“When I heard the cry of Abia people especially from Aba and Umuahia I responded immediately by stopping all forms of taxes and levies.”

Orji held that the people were right to protest the outrageous levies, fees and revenues charged by the fraudulent agents, vowing to prosecute all perpetrators henceforth.

He also appealed to the people to refrain from the unpatriotic habit of tax evasion common during colonial era, assuring that his government will continue to justify every public fund through identifiable projects.

Speaking earlier, Finance Commissioner, Dr. Philips Nto, said government was investigating some sub-treasuries in connection with revenue fraud, adding that with dwindling oil prices government could no longer depend on only allocations from Abuja.

He said the ongoing reform in the sector would help secure pension funds through e-payment, saying the policy has come to stay.

ABIA STATE: THE OCHENDO LEGACY


“Call a rose by any other name and it will still smell the same”. This Shakespearean axiom still re-echoes through the millennia to our present generation.
One name that readily calls to mind and is plausibly on the lips of every son and daughter of Abia State both at home and in the Diaspora is the unmistakable name of the incumbent State Governor.
Governor Theodore Orji must have fought mentally, psychologically and verbally to prove to the good people of Abia State and to the world at large that there is a world of difference between Orji the immediate past governor of God’s Own State and T.A. Orji the “OCHENDO”.
Fondly known as Ochendo, and unmistakably so in every ramification of that well-earned title, Governor T.A. Orji has proved to the people of Abia State and to the world at large that the people who were once abandoned and forgotten could still find solace in a God-sent and God-fearing son of their own. Through his laudable initiatives, he had proved that there is not much in a name. Days are gone when a monk could be identified only by his hood.
Little wonder the Igbos have a common saying that the soiled garbage of mechanics has made it impossible to distinguish between them and lunatics.
The situation in Abia State before the emergence of Dr T.A. Orji was one of dejection, despair and disillusionment. Business activities had grounded to a halt because most entrepreneurs had literally abandoned the urban cities to look for greener pasture elsewhere. Unemployed youth had either taken to the streets to try to burn off excess cholesterol by serving as motor-park touts, street hawkers of non-essential commodities such as packaged water, pop-corn pea-nuts, bread, et cetera.
During the period under review, pick-pocketing, house-breaking, armed robbery, prostitution and other forms of crime had reached nerve-breaking heights. People had completely lost confidence in the government of the day and by extension the government at the center.
Today, the story has drastically changed through the pragmatic initiative of Ochendo. He has proved to be a dependable pillar of support to the people of Abia State – both old and young.
All those youth who hitherto littered the streets and had menaced the inhabitants for so long have been rehabilitated overnight. Security presence in all parts of the State is heart-warming.
The Governor’s Youth Empowerment Project is one visible presence that would greet the casual observer from every corner of the State. These are translated into commuter vehicles which have made transportation within and out of the State less burdensome and readily available as well as affordable.
To crown it all, the Governor has in one package, OCHENDO LEGACY PROJECT which truly is a legacy he hopes to bequeath to the good people of Abia State, for which posterity should remember him. The Legacy Project which covers all areas of need of the common man, ranges from affordable housing scheme, medical-care and facilities, a befitting Secretariat complex, Civic Centres, one-stop shopping complex, standard motor parks, educational institutions including skills acquisition centres, et cetera.
All these projects have already translated into better employment opportunities, improved health-care delivery, civilized existence, environmentally-friendly atmosphere among others.
In fact, the people of Abia State have experienced unprecedented development during the remarkably short tenure of Ochendo that cannot compare to all the people that had governed the State since its creation.
This, indeed, is what legacy is all about. We cannot thank Ochendo enough than to pray that God Almighty in His infinite mercy should grant him the courage to contend with the ingratitude of most of his detractors. May Ochendo be endowed with unsurpassed grace and wisdom to continue to do God’s will, for posterity, in Jesus’ name.
Vincent Nnanna is a BBC Correspondent based in Cotonou

Home » SouthEast » Orji’s wife empowers 3,000 less-privileged

Posted by: Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke in SouthEast 9 hours ago

The wife of Abia State governor, Lady Mercy Orji, has empowered about 3000 indigent people through her pet project, HannahMay Foundation.

The effort received commendations from the state government, saying that the collaborative initiative of the foundation has created wealth, employment and has sustained security in the state. The indigent people are, therefore, in a better position to contribute to the economic well-being of the state.

Speaking at the foundation’s recent distribution of empowerment items, the state governor, Chief Theodore Orji, praised the foundation for its partnering with his administration to help the needy, thereby helping the reduce the work load on him.

Orji, who was represented by the secretary to the state government, Mkpa Agu Mkpa, noted that the empowerment programme will be handing out various items to over 3000 Abia men, women, youths and the physically challenged selected from the 17 local government councils of the state is one of the legacy projects of his government.

The governor said that the foundation has through its activities brought succour to families and reduced crime in the state.

He, therefore, called on public spirited individuals and organisations as well as non-governmental organisations (NGO) to use their wealth to positively touch the lives of the downtrodden t as the HannahMay Foundation was doing.

In her address of welcome, Mrs. Orji said that through the humanitarian strides of the foundation, HannahMay has been able to save lives, rescued women who would have been involved in human trafficking.

Mrs Orji also said that her foundation has served mankind in epidemic and other humanitarian endeavours,stating that the its vision and mission was to show love by making life meaningful.

She said that her aim is to reduce the burden of indigent persons, widows, widowers, motherless babies, Network of People living with HIV/AIDS [NEPHWAN] and prison inmates in the state as part of her good governance complementing role.

The wife of the governor, however, appealed to the beneficiaries to make effective use of the items to assist government tackle crime and unemployment, create wealth through stimulating economic activities in the state.

She praised the governor for creating a favourable environment for the foundation to carry out its humanitarian programmes.

Mrs Orji used the opportunity to appeal to well-to-do individuals to assist and support the humanitarian efforts of the foundation in touching the lives of the downtrodden in the society.

One of the beneficiaries who gave her name simply as Ijeoma, was full of gratitude to Mrs Orji for her care and love forthe less privileged in the state and pray that God would continue to bless and protect her.

Some of the items distributed include 1000 sewing machines, grinding machines, hair dressing equipments, barbing kits, vulcanizing machines, computer and its accessories among others.

http://thenationonlineng.net/new/orjis-wife-empowers-3000-less-privileged/

Pension scam: Abia suspends treasury officers’ salaries


Irked by the reluctance of the staff of sub- treasuries to implement government new policy on electronic payment of pensioners, the Abia State Govenment has directed the immediate stoppage of the salaries of the staff of the sub- treasury .

Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Philip Nto, in a release said that the disciplinary measure would not be vacated until the erring officers comply with the new policy, which he explained was aimed at eradicating corruption in the system.

Nto who lamented that his late father’s name was still in pensioners’ payroll years after his demise said government would not hesitate to expose and prosecute any official found defrauding the state.

The Commissioner vowed that government would not rescind its decision to commence the implementation of electronic payment of pensioners by the end of July 2014, warning that any one who constitutes a clog to the proposal will be severely dealt with.

He, therefore, directed the Heads of Sub-Treasuries to ensure strict compliance with all government directives regarding the welfare of pensioners.

The Heads of Sub-treasuries were also directed to submit without delay the necessary documents and data needed for the verification and commencement of e-payment of pensioners in the state.

When implemented, the new policy is expected to end the woes of pensioners in the state who have complained bitterly of pension arrears even when the fund has been provided by government .

The PUNCH recalls that government’s directive on biometric audit of council staff two years ago met stiff opposition by some fraudulent officials and cabal who had corruptly enriched themselves through public funds.

The sharp practice has gone unchallenged for years, hence the reluctance of the Heads of Sub-Treasuries to facilitate the commencement of the electronic payment.

Gov. Theodore Orji had early last year declared total war on corruption , misappropriation and outright embezzlement of public funds,warning that any government official (s) found culpable will be fired and prosecuted.

http://www.punchng.com/news/pension-scam-abia-suspends-treasury-officers-salaries/

He is a criminal ,he lootd all the money in Abia state

I support T.A on this,we need to have Oga Jona on this seat come 2015

2015: Declare now, Orji urges Jonathan

Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, has called on President Goodluck Jonathan to declare his intention to seek re- election.

Orji, who made the appeal in Umuahia when he received in audience South-East delegation of “Goodluck Support Groups,” said Jonathan had so far demonstrated that he could lead Nigeria out of the woods.

While calling on his fellow governors to close ranks with the President instead of overheating the polity through sensational comments, Orji said his support for the President “is not cosmetic.”

His words, “My support for Jonathan is total and not cosmetic and we want him to make known his intension to run in 2015 because we will replicate the total support we gave him in 2011.

“Even though he has not declared I will not stop supporting him because I know that he has all it takes to fix Nigeria despite the daunting challenges,” Orji said.

I think these guys are blind....if you are here and casting aspersions on a governor T.A then you are no better than a nincompoop ...for all we care,T.A Orji is the best governor Abia has had so far...and am given him my vote come 2015 for senatorial seat

Abia State Government introduces Health insurance scheme Following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Ogun state government and the National Health Insurance Scheme, the Governor of Abia State, Theodore Orji has signed into law the National Health Insurance Scheme as an executive bill after signing an MoU with the National Health Insurance Scheme in the State. The governor also directed that the State's workforce be integrated into the health scheme as other workers. Governor Orji stated this at the Government House in Umuahia when he received the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Health Insurance
Scheme, Femi Thomas during his advocacy visit to the State. The Governor maintained that his administration has a two-point agenda in the State, comprising
security and health. In addition, he said that the State Government has invested a lot of resources in the two sectors which has earned the State lots of awards
as a result of successes recorded. He also promised the provide the agency with a landed property to develop and build their office in the state. In his statement, the Executive Secretary of the Health Insurance Scheme, Femi Thomas disclosed that 98% of the federal workforce have been covered in the National Health Insurance Scheme, maintaining that the scheme will in 2014 roll out a programme for pupils in public primary schools in the country, estimated to cost N48 billion per year. He commended the Governor for the giant strides he has made in the State, especially in the health sector, pointing out that Universal Health

Abia State Government introduces Health insurance scheme Following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Ogun state government and the National Health Insurance Scheme, the Governor of Abia State, Theodore Orji has signed into law the National Health Insurance Scheme as an executive bill after signing an MoU with the National Health Insurance Scheme in the State. The governor also directed that the State's workforce be integrated into the health scheme as other workers. Governor Orji stated this at the Government House in Umuahia when he received the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Health Insurance
Scheme, Femi Thomas during his advocacy visit to the State. The Governor maintained that his administration has a two-point agenda in the State, comprising security and health. In addition, he said that the State Government has invested a lot of resources in the two sectors which has earned the State lots of awards as a result of successes recorded. He also promised the provide the agency with a landed property to develop and build their office in the state. In his statement, the Executive Secretary of the Health Insurance Scheme, Femi Thomas disclosed that 98% of the federal workforce have been covered in the National Health Insurance Scheme, maintaining that the scheme will in 2014 roll out a programme for pupils in public primary schools in the country, estimated to cost N48 billion per year. He commended the Governor for the giant strides he has made in the State, especially in the health sector, pointing out that Universal Health Coverage must be covered in 2025. He further appealed to the Governor to avail the State the opportunity offered by the National Health Insurance scheme.

We will jointly build a strong base for IMO State inclusive of all as a Community of people. I want to introduce a progressive reform in IMO State to move us to next level when I become the Senator to represent Owerri Zone in 2015. We can do better and yes we will. Please join the ICON JUDE IHEAKANWA FOR SENATE OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA FOR OWERRI ZONE, 2015. We have a choice to make. And the time is here for that choice. I have a good track record and will do it for Owerri much better than I did in Australia. Please work with me and let's get to work for the masses. Sell this message to your family, friends and well wishers. Thank you and May God bless you.

GOV T.A. ORJI BUILDING A SOLID FOUNDATION UPON WHICH ABIA WILL STAND
But it appears that even before the creation of Abia State in the year 1991, precisely on the 27th of August, God has Chief Theodore Ahamefule Orji in mind to reposition the state and create a solid foundation upon which Abia will be built .Many Abians will ask why do I say so, does it mean that a state that is almost 23 years old never had a foundation? And my ready answer
is, in the case of Abia NO.
The uncommon transformation going on in Abia today tagged "LEGACY PROJECTS" are supposed to have been embarked upon 23 years
ago by the former Governors of the state which include military administrators and civilian rulers but for reasons best known to them they all chose to over look those projects that are supposed to be the foundational projects of any young state and that's why you can't stand
anywhere in Abia to point at one project embarked upon by any of its former leaders both the military and the civilian governors not even
the ones abandoned midway in form of abandoned projects, but rather what we have is a long list of dying or already dead industries and
institutions which Abia inherited from the then eastern regional government under chief M.I. Okpara namely the Golden Guinea Breweries,
the Modern Ceramics industry, the Aba Textile Mill, the farm settlements eg.Ulonna North and South etc. Abia also inherited from the then
Imo State under the leadership of Chief Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe, industries like the Ogwe Golden Chicken, the International Glass Industry and the Imo Hotel Ogborhill Aba, also the the World Bank and low cost housing estates were part of what Abia inherited from the
Mbakwe administration.
The Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State and the Ambassador newspapers were built by the then military administrator Frank Ajobena,
while Chief Ogbonnaya Onu left us with only the Abia tower in 1992.
It’s quite unfortunate that while other states created the same date with Abia State are busy expanding the frontiers of what they inherited
from their parent states, in the case of Abia the former rulers left them to rot. That's why I have always described Governor T.A. Orji as a governor laying a fresh foundation for the state after 23 years, in natural law its
always easy to dig up the ground while it’s still very soft and wet but when the land has gone through years of dryness without being wetted
you and I can understand the difficulty in digging up such a ground and the very first process of laying a foundation is to dig up the ground
at such it takes courage, determination and extra strength to lay a foundation on a ground that has been dry for two decades plus. I make
bold to say that Governor is God’s sent to Abia.
Ochendo has gone the extra length by building the structures necessary for the take off of a state like Abia, while I don't totally blame those who criticize the efforts of the present administration in repositioning the state and placing it on the right foundation it’s because we
have had governors who did nothing to better the lot of the state and its citizens but rather concentrated on enriching themselves, their
cronies and establishing personal businesses in other states and countries with the money meant for the development of Abia State and its
citizenry.
In as much as criticism is a part of governance, every rational mind would appreciate the efforts of Chief T.A.Orji and the challenges in
building pilot institutions for the state at the age of 22 plus, the projects he is undertaking now are projects he should have inherited being 8th person to man the affairs of the state. Abia before Ochendo should be described as an institution without an administrative base and I
wonder how such an organisation will succeed.
Some people who do not see the efforts of the present administration are those who either do not know the history and background of the
state or intentionally do not want to appreciate the developmental strides of the present administration under Chief T.A. Orji. Honestly, a lot
has been done and many more are still being done to make Abia regain its glory as Gods own state.
Security is the foremost contract the people have with their leaders and its evident that Abia is a secured and safe state unlike what is obtainable in Abia State between 1999/2008 where by the state was held hostage at different times by the Aba Mafia, armed robbers or
kidnappers which forced the people of Abia to form their own security outfit known as Bakassi Boys since the government as at that time
has failed them, the lives and property of Abians were no longer guaranteed. The underworld gangs were in charge of the state while the
government which has the sole responsibility of securing the people no longer care about the people they are supposed to protect until
Ochendo came with the present security arrangement in Abia which saw all the criminals leaving the state or pay the supreme price for
criminality. Today, Abia has been described as the safest state in the federation. In the area of health, Governor T.A. Orji "Ochendo" has built and equipped over 710 Primary healthcare centres, two Diagnostic centres in
Umuahia & Aba, nine 100-bed General Hospitals across the three Senatorial Districts, a new Dialysis Centre and Eye Centre. He is also
expanding and re-equipping the Abia State Teaching Hospital Aba, Chest Clinic at Amachara, Pediatric Clinic & Emergency Centre at
Amachara etc.
As you can see, Ochendo is not only securing the lives and property of Abians, he is also safeguarding the health and lives of Abians. He
has also paid off the debt the state inherited from the OUK administration and has been able to lift the state from its pariah status which the state was plunged into by the immediate past governor of Abia State Chief Orji Uzor Kalu when he entered into an ineffectual war of words
with the federal government under Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and today Abia is not only seen as a friend of the government at the centre it
also maintains a healthy relationship with other sister states and regarded as one of the most economically healthy state going by CBN
index.
The state government under Ochendo went into aggressive agricultural revolution so as to make sure that Abians are not only healthy and
safe but to ensure that they are well fed, that informed his decision to establish liberation farms across different LGA’s in Abia State which is intended to bring our youths back to agriculture and make the state self-sufficient in food production.
Before the Ochendo administration Abia youths were usually empowered with guns and machetes and the only employment known to them
was thuggery but today the youths are now trained in different skills and trades and upon completion are given grants to enable them get
established. Instead of giving the youths guns and machetes they are now being given vehicles without asking for pay backs just to get
them gainfully employed and out of the street. Over 3,000 cars have been distributed to the youths of the state.
Aba that used to be very dirty which was formerly known as the dirtiest town in Africa is today described as one of the cleanest towns in Nigeria and Umuahia the state capital is now described as the cleanest capital in Nigeria courtesy of Ochendo,s ingenuity and leadership
craftiness.
Because of his love for education he is building and renovating schools across the 17 LGAs in Abia State and has given school children
free school buses that take them to school in the morning and bring them back after school hours. Ochendo’s hardwork in education is
evident with the last WAEC result where our children performed creditably well.
Its on record that Abia civil servants have not gone on strike for once since the inception of the Ochendo administration because of the understanding and care the governor has shown them. Today Abia State government pays higher than the federal government stipulated
minimum wage for civil servants across the federation. The governor also built a state of the art Secretariat for Abia civil servants so as to
enable them work in a serene and cosy environment.
The relocation of the Umuahia Main Market is a feat that seemed impossible in the eye of many, other governors toyed with the idea but do
not have the will power to carry it out until Ochendo came and today Ubani Ultra Modern Market is a sight to behold, while the new Timber
Market and Ohiya Mechanic Village has taken off full blast. The removal of these markets from the centre of the state capital is meant to decongest the state capital and give room for meaningful development.
The beautification of the state capital is going on from one corner of Umuahia to another, traffic lights are being mounted at major traffic
spots and flowers are being planted along the major roads of Umuahia with monuments being erected at every round about to add beauty to
the town.
Governor T.A. Orji also established Abia Roads Maintenance Agency (ABROMA) to take care of road maintenance in the state and the
Abia State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ASOPADEC) whose aim is to ensure that development gets to every nook and cranny of Abia State more especially the oil producing communities in Abia State whose youths became very restive due to long years of
neglect by previous administrations but today calm has returned to such communities as they are seeing the gains coming from such
communities.
In the area of housing, the Governor T.A. Orji administration has built quite a number of housing estates to ease the housing problem which
is always one of the major challenges of a growing town like Umuahia. Some of the housing estates include: Amaokwe Housing Estate,
Ochendo Liberation Housing estate, Isieke Housing estate, New Ohobo Housing Estate, Traders Estate Ubani,Ochendo Liberation Estate at Amauba etc. The building of a new High Court building, ASUBEB building, the E-Library, ASEPA building and most importantly the new
government house. It should be noted that some of these projects and many others which space cannot allow me to enumerate are
foundational projects which a state needs to function but in Abia it has been lacking until Ochendo came. Some of our former governors
rather than building the state chose to build their personal businesses outside Abia State leading to capital flight whereby Abia gets
underdeveloped but their personal businesses are growing in other states and countries where they pay huge taxes to their host states and
countries. Even as his tenure is rounding up Governor Orji has promised to make sure that projects he initiated are completed before he leaves office.
He may not have solved the entire problem facing the state but the truth is that he has built a solid foundation upon which Abia will stand.
.Aguoru writes from Umuahia

A great day indeed as I witnessed the official unveiling of the newly rebuilt Michael Okpara Square by H.E T A Orji (Ochendo), graced by Her Excellency, Lady Adanma MI Okpara the wife of our late Premier, Michael Okpara.

It is really an era of legacy in Abia State!

H.E T.A Orji congratulates Ayo Fayose

The Abia State Governor, Chief Theodore Orji, has congratulated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Mr. Ayo Fayose, for his hard earned victory at the just concluded governorship election in Ekiti State where he defeated the incumbent Governor Kayode Fayemi of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

Fayose polled 203, 090 votes; Fayemi came second with 120, 433 votes while Labour Party’s Opeyemi Bamidele was in distance third.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Ajunwa, Governor Orji who expressed happiness over Fayose’s landmark victory, thanked the people of Ekiti State for remaining peaceful during and after the governorship election.

Governor Orji who also thanked officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Police and other security agencies for the professional manner they discharged their duties, said the people of Ekiti State made the right choice by voting massively for the PDP candidate, Fayose.

The governor charged the people of Ekiti State to give Mr. Fayose all the needed cooperation and support to enable him realize his dream of taking the state to greater heights.

“Mr. Ayo Fayose’s victory is a divine mandate. I know that the newly elected governor of Ekiti State has all it takes to bring the dividends of democracy to the people of the state. He has done it before and he will do it again.

Visiting to what used to be general hospital Amachara and u will discover great transformation which T.A Orji has carried out. That hospital brings s me feeling of good memory, because my mom always told me I was born there. I am glad that the glory of the hospital and on the other hand saves us the agony of losing our loves ones to curable ailment. I would urge us to take a walk to the hospital; there are essential facilities at the specialist Hospital which are world class. You would be astonished as to the money invested in securing duality facilities like the dialysis machines, the MRI machines and more. Those who think these facilities do not mean anything should wait until they are struck by ailments.

I saw how T.A ORJI started building a workers secretariat which seven executives (including two civilians) could not do. Visiting to what used to be general hospital Amachara and u will discover great transformation which T.A Orji has carried out. That hospital brings s me feeling of good memory, because my mom always told me I was born there. I am glad that the glory of the hospital and on the other hand saves us the agony of losing our loves ones to curable ailment. I would urge us to take a walk to the hospital; there are essential facilities at the specialist Hospital which are world class. You would be astonished as to the money invested in securing duality facilities like the dialysis machines, the MRI machines and more. Those who think these facilities do not mean anything should wait until they are struck by ailments.
I did not forget the tranquillity that has been the order of the day over the former Timber Market around World Bank Housing estate. Visiting the Industrial Market further confirmed that a huge difference has taken place in the Abia state.

Abia state government since the inception of the 2nd tenure of Chief T. A. Orji has made tremendous achievements in the area of water and electricity through the ministry of public utilities.
In the area of water,” a comprehensive consultancy services has been carried out on how to rehabilitate the old Umuahia Urban water scheme and other water schemes in the state through the ministry of public utilities and water Resources. The ministry is also liaising with the federal ministry of Niger Delta for the Regional water schemes in the state to be captured in the federal government’s subsidy Removal Reinvestment programme (SUREP).
This will involve the reconstruction, rehabilitation and expansion of the water schemes. Also, the rehabilitation of Umuokpara water scheme has been executed. In the area of electricity the timely intervention by the state government facilitated the inspection and pre -commissioning tests of the Completed 132kv network from Alaoji- Umuahia and the 132/33 KV injection substation equally energized. Consequently, the state government in 2011 awarded contract for the construction of 5no 33kv High Tension feeder lines from the Ohiya 2×30 MVA, 132/33kv injection substation.
The 5 No 33KV feeder lines radiates from Ohiya injection sub-station to the following locations – Afara, Ubakala, Nkwoegwu, Ntigha Umungwa. Construction work along Afara, Ubakala, Nkwoegwu and Umungwa has been completed while work on the Ntigha axis is in progress. This has greatly increased the electricity supply situationin Umuahia metropolis and its environs.
In addition, government initiated and completed the installation of solar energy streetlights in the following areas of Umuahia metropolis-house of Assembly junction to Bende Road, Ndume Otuka Road, Road 3 Low Cost Housing Estate, Health centre Road, World Bank, Adelabu street and Bende road which has reached about 80% completion.
Tuesday at 5:38pm · Like
Eze Obioma One of the greatest legacies of the Chief T. A. Orji’s administration in the state is the sustenance of peace in the communities. This has impacted positively on development. Through its relevant agencies like the ministry, of local government and chieftaincy Affairs, it has resolved Ezeship and , inter- community disputes in rural, grassroots communities through prompt, settlement of 76 ezeship and inter-community disputes.
The government has provided conducive environment for local government administration by taking proactive decisions ‘fed actions on security reports received from the local governments. The Abia state government has continued to pay allowances of Ndieze regularly in addition to facilitating payment of over NI00m old debts as well as arrears of salaries owed by the 17 LGAs and ensured regular prompt payment of salaries owed by local governments in the state. The state government during the period under review completed the construction of the JAAC / Ndieze secretariat crescent with asphalt by direct labour; procured and distributed 3711 300KVA transformers to the 17 local governments and institutions in the state. Government also procured and distributed 72 vehicles to the 17 transition committee chairmen and all Revenue units of the 17 LGAs as well as the principal officers of Abia state traditional Rulers council. Government has also made funds available for the renovation of the local government headquarters and also produced uniform sign posts for them. The ministry in keeping with the governor’s directive empowered 6000 Abia youths across the local government areas.
Tuesday at 5:40pm · Like
Safiya S Musa Soniiiii...how many times I don tell you say make you stop to try help those who have vehemently refused to help themselves biko? It's time wasting and energy sapping abeg..dem say the man has done wonderfully well (even though it can't be seen, nor did he say so), so wetin be your own for the matter na? All Abians are comfortable, they all have jobs, there's none hungry amongst them, poverty has be wiped clean from the land, kidnapping and Armed Robbery is a thing of the past, all roads are motorable, everyone feeds well, all the streets and homes have lights (guess there's an awesome gas turbine providing that), free education for all (did ABSU student protest recently), no hassle, no stress; all thanks to TA Orji, the most performing Governor in Nigeria

T.A orji has reconstructed the seemingly intractable Osisioma Deport Road. In his wisdom, he encouraged Prof.Barth Nnaji to keep alive his geometric power station dream by providing access roads and other infrastructure. T.A also summoned courage to open up the famous school road drainage. I did not forget how overzealous trader that filled the Aba environ occupied the drainage systems and built shops on them. That was the constitutor of the failure of most roads I have heard people cry of few road in Aba that are not good but if we can give heed to the government calls for a proper utility of facilities as they will help us to maintain a healthy environment.
T.A has made concerted effort to rescue Aba . Taken a smooth ride to Water side University of Nigeria Institute of Languages .That long stretch of road ,reconstructed by T.A shows how much of a leader he is .At Milverton .i saw how he offered Luxurious bus owners and transporters long lease of life. The Milverton Road is an achievement .I could remember some time ago that the bad condition of that road made most transporters to withdraw their services from Aba.The consequences was most commuters; especially the predominant Aba business class had only limited choices. Take a long stretch to Azikiwe Road you will discover there is no port holes where Azikiwe to Asa road used to be traffic den owning to the gullies that dotted the entire road .Speaking about Ukwu Mango road, it’s been reconstructed yet I hear a few say it’s been neglected, but this to me is a blind argument about that road. We know what people suffered within the area of Aba for well over thirty years, but the rescue operation he carried out face-lifted the entire Aba area to a greater good for the people.
Over 220 Primary Health Centres and the on-going youth empowerment which T.A initiated and is still in progress may be for another, and above all I feel I owe a lot to you by your rare exhibition of love for your people. You have voted to reduce poverty among the citizens of Abia State ,i can only ask for a more fruitful years ahead of you, and long life.

Orji not tampering with LG funds – Nwabuko

Emma Nwabuko was the immediate-past Abia State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. In this interview with SNR CORRESPONDENT Ben Duru in Umuahia, he speaks on the forthcoming council polls and enumerates the achievements of the current administration. Excerpts:

The holding of election into the 17 local government areas in the state has become a major discussion. When will it hold?

I don’t see why the issue should bother people much. The election will hold when all the necessary things are in place. The governor has given his word that election will hold and he has said it time and again that he is accountable to his words. The governor has never gone back on his promises and the local government election is one of them. A lot is happening within the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission and also the Abia State House of Assembly. Once the lawmakers conclude on the law that will guide the election, and the electoral umpire concludes with its own programmes, the date will be fixed and election held. As you can see, there is peace in Abia State because the governor has worked very hard to put the perpetrators out of the area. So people should relax and those who are interested in contesting the election should be doing their homework. It is just like the general election coming in 2015, people all over the country have started making their consultations and discussing with the electorate. That is what is important because as soon as the date is announced, the issue will be rested.

Before the dissolution of the last State Executive Council, the local government areas had embarked on several projects which you mentioned as very important to the development of the rural areas. How far have these projects gone?

I want to tell you authoritatively that most of them have been completed. This is why I have insisted that the governor has not been touching funds meant for the council areas. You can imagine that skill acquisition centres is being constructed in all the council areas and majority of them have been completed and some of them have even been commissioned by the governor. The Liberation Farms in all the council areas are ongoing following the prototype which the governor commissioned. You discover that it is only in Abia State that you find activities going on. So the projects are in top gear and the councils have been denied nothing. The salaries of the council areas have remained top on the agenda, and same also goes for the payment of gratuities to those that retired from service. This is a government that has a human face and that is why the payment of salaries and gratuities are not toyed with.http://www.dailyindependentnig.com/2013/09/orji-not-tampering-with-lg-funds-nwabuko/

Orji’s health programme gets boost

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria has approved Abia State Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre for medical internship training, a development, which Governor Theodore Orji has applauded.

The governor stated that the development is a big boost to his administration’s quest to bring health to the door steps of every Abian.

Orji explained that the internship accreditation team from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria that visited Abia Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre in February 2013 were impressed with what they saw, hence the council’s approval for the hospital to be accredited for medical internship training of sixteen house officers.

The state government recently took delivery of a state-of-the-art machine for the newly completed dialysis centre in Umuahia, buttressing Governor Theodore Orji’s commitment to take the health sector to an enviable height.

Consequently, the establishment of world-class diagnostic centres in Umuahia and Aba, and the completion of the dialysis centre, is the manifestation of the desire of Governor Orji’s administration to ensure a healthy state with healthy citizens.

Health, they say, is wealth. That is why Governor Orji has made it a priority for his administration, believing that one has to be alive to enjoy the benefits of democracy. The administration is, therefore, committing huge resources in the sector to ensure that the health of its citizens is adequately taken care of.

To ensure that it realises its plans in this sector, the state government, through the Abia State Planning Commission, is working with the office of the presidency to set up health centres in all the electoral wards in the state. This is to bring medical services closer to the people. The administration has so far built 250 health centres across the state. Many others are at various stages of completion.

It is the wish of the government to increase the number of health centres that are on ground by partnering with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and other foreign donor agencies.

According to his Excellency, “We want every ward to have a health centre to make health care available to all. The government is putting up a new structure at the diagnostic centre, Umuahia, to house the dialysis centre. When that building is completed, we are going to install a dialysis machine to help our people with renal problems. They would no longer have to go to the teaching hospitals in Enugu, Lagos or Zaria for dialysis. We are also putting up a new structure at Amachara General Hospital to take care of children. It is going to be a specialist children’s centre”.

The governor went on: “We are also erecting a massive hall at the Abia State Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), Aba, to provide accommodation that would train more medical personnel. So, our programme is in progress because we have always taken health as very important. This is because you have to be healthy to know what dividend of democracy is and we want to preside over healthy people”.

Meanwhile, the state government and four United Nations Health agencies (UNH4) have pledged to deepen their areas of partnership in their commitment to further reduce maternal and infant mortality rate, promote exclusive breastfeeding, safe pregnancy delivery and optimal care for the new born baby in the state. The recent commitment would further reduce maternal and infant mortality rate, promote maternal healthcare, exclusive breastfeeding, safe pregnancy delivery and optimal care for new born babies in Abia State.

UNH4 team, comprising UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO and World Bank, at a recent visit to the state, pledged to sustain its relationship with the Abia State government to facilitate optimal healthcare delivery for women and children. It is a well-known fact that Governor Orji accords healthcare delivery a top priority.

The construction of 250 new primary healthcare centres across the 17 local government areas of Abia State and the establishment of the state primary healthcare development agency are in line with the National Healthcare Policy, geared towards making healthcare available to people, especially those at the hinterlands.

The executive support and personal involvement in all rounds of immunisation and de-worming of school children, war against measles, sensitisation on cancer, hypertension and diabetes, exclusive breastfeeding and attracting medical teams for free medicare services to the people, are all geared towards ensuring not only a sound health system for women and children, but for the entire populace.

Apart from the state government’s programme against maternal and infant mortality, the administration seeks out well-meaning non-governmental bodies to take healthcare delivery to the people. The office of the governor’s wife is equally supporting people living with HIV/AIDS as well as empowering the less-privileged and indigent women in line with the UNH4 objective of ensuring optimal health for women and children.

Meanwhile, about 12,603 HIV/AIDS patients in the state are to receive government minimal support services as part of commitment towards reducing the rate of infection and eradication of the virus in the state. Also pregnant women in Abia State are to access the services of prevention of mother-to-child transmission by going to the nearest centres for counseling, testing and treatment in order to deliver HIV-negative babies, and free the next generation from the virus.

Governor Orji has shown appreciation to the result achieved between the administration and UNICEF, and had noted that the joint intervention helped to check the imminent outbreak of cholera in Bende Local Government Area. According to him, the joint intervention yielded positive result and there has been no known repeat of such disease in that area or in any other location.

•Emezue is the chief press secretary to Abia State governor.

NSC reiterates commitment to realize Aba Inland Container Depot

The Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) a Federal Government agency vested with the responsibility of protecting the interest of Nigerian shippers- importers and exporters, has reiterated its commitment to ensure that the Aba Inland Container Depot at Avor Ntigha, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of the State is realised.

Emenike Ndukwe, area officer, Enugu office of the NSC, made the pledge in response to the demand of shippers in the Southeast zone of the country, at an enlightenment programme organised by the council, in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia State.

Aba Inland Container Depot, one of the six dry ports approved by the Federal Government in the six geo-political zones of the country, is one project that is believed to boost the economy of Abia State and the entire Southeast when realised.

Consequently, Abia State Government and Eastgate-the concessionaire have some responsibilities to ensure the realisation of the project, which is vital to the State as it is expected to generate revenue, create employment and boost the economy of the State.

Although the project has suffered some set backs, it has been reinvigorated and now being supervised by the Deputy Governor, Emeka Ananaba, who would ensure that the aim of the project is achieved.

To show commitment, the State Government has acquired 20 percent equity in the project, to enable the people of the State to reap the full benefits of the project, touted to be the most viable among the five other ICD projects in the country.

Governor Theodore Orji, explained that his administration’s decision to acquire 20 percent stake in the project was to give additional confidence to the Federal Government, the concessionaires and the people of the State.

According to him, we know that when this project is completed, that our youths would have something to do.

The governor observed that the project when completed, would attract so many companies to the area and state at large and on behalf of the people of the state assured the concessionaire of the peoples support to ensure that the project was realized.

However, one issue that needs to be addressed, which is important to the viability of the project is the provision of rail transportation from the ports in Port Harcourt and Onne to the depot. The rehabilitation of the route, would ensure the realisation of the full economic potentials of the ICD, which is situated along the route at Avor Ntigha, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State.

The Federal Ministry of Transport should also use the opportunity offered by the new rail contract to consider creating a new rail route to link up Calabar, Cross River State and the rest of the Southeast.

The observation of Adamu Biu, the immediate past chief executive officer, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) at the inauguration of the site buttresses the viability of the project when he said, “This land is the place, this is the home for the most viable dry port in the country according to the report of the survey carried out on the viability of the six ICDs in the country.

According to Biu, “It is not going to be easy, but we are confident that Eastgate is equal to the task, we are confident that Eastgate has the required commitment, we are confident that the state government will continue to support this project, we are confident that the host community will also continue to give us the necessary support and by so doing, the container depot in Ntigha, Isiala Ngwa North Local Council, will be the best in the South of Sahara,” he said.

The ICD project was initiated to ease off congestion at the country’s ports as well as provide fast track clearing services to importers in the country.---BUSINESSDAY

ABIA @ 22 AND THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF T.A ORJI SO FAR

By Patrickobi Obinalihe

T.A Orji would remained honoured with sufficient grace to carry on the affairs of this great state of what many have described as one of the poorest states in the South East .His labour shall not be in vain, he has been steadfast, and has not be deterred by criticisms of those who knows nothing about democracy, about moral burden he inherited .But despite the challenges, he has made quite a huge effort which has resulted to a speedy development of our twenty two year old state. It’s obvious that the impact and contribution may have not been felt so swiftly, but am sure that in no less a time to come; Abians will find T.A Orji for more honours.

Ochendo is working, at least he has recorded many achievement in health sector ,provided a lot to the youth to which many of them has relied on to lead a good life

I saw how he started building a workers secretariat which seven executives (including two civilians) could not do. Visiting to what used to be general hospital Amachara and u will discover great transformation which T.A Orji has carried out. That hospital brings s me feeling of good memory, because my mom always told me I was born there. I am glad that the glory of the hospital and on the other hand saves us the agony of losing our loves ones to curable ailment. I would urge us to take a walk to the hospital; there are essential facilities at the specialist Hospital which are world class. You would be astonished as to the money invested in securing duality facilities like the dialysis machines, the MRI machines and more. Those who think these facilities do not mean anything should wait until they are struck by ailments.

I did not forget the tranquillity that has been the order of the day over the former Timber Market around World Bank Housing estate. Visiting the Industrial Market further confirmed that a huge difference has taken place in the Abia state.
T.A orji has reconstructed the seemingly intractable Osisioma Deport Road. In his wisdom, he encouraged Prof.Barth Nnaji to keep alive his geometric power station dream by providing access roads and other infrastructure. T.A also summoned courage to open up the famous school road drainage. I did not forget how overzealous trader that filled the Aba environ occupied the drainage systems and built shops on them. That was the constitutor of the failure of most roads I have heard people cry of few road in Aba that are not good but if we can give heed to the government calls for a proper utility of facilities as they will help us to maintain a healthy environment.

T.A has made concerted effort to rescue Aba . Taken a smooth ride to Water side University of Nigeria Institute of Languages .That long stretch of road ,reconstructed by T.A shows how much of a leader he is .At Milverton .i saw how he offered Luxurious bus owners and transporters long lease of life. The Milverton Road is an achievement .I could remember some time ago that the bad condition of that road made most transporters to withdraw their services from Aba.The consequences was most commuters; especially the predominant Aba business class had only limited choices. Take a long stretch to Azikiwe Road you will discover there is no port holes where Azikiwe to Asa road used to be traffic den owning to the gullies that dotted the entire road .Speaking about Ukwu Mango road, it’s been reconstructed yet I hear a few say it’s been neglected, but this to me is a blind argument about that road. We know what people suffered within the area of Aba for well over thirty years, but the rescue operation he carried out face-lifted the entire Aba area to a greater good for the people.

Over 220 Primary Health Centres and the on-going youth empowerment which T.A initiated and is still in progress may be for another, and above all I feel I owe a lot to you by your rare exhibition of love for your people. You have voted to reduce poverty among the citizens of Abia State , i can only ask for a more fruitful years ahead of you, and long life. good health is tantamount to wealth and for that reason the preservation of the security and property of Abians as well as the provision of adequate health care have come to take the centre stage in Abia development agenda though the legacy projects agenda.”

infrastructural development projects would be meaningless if the health of the people was not factored into the programme,building health institutions that people can access and get answers to their health problems is a huge initiative and a first class achievement

It is true that governance in Abia state has procreated a lot of challenges, consequentially, greatest if the greatest. A few like T.A has comprehended what democratic leadership is and how democracy can be ran to improve development in the wider sense.Leadership starts with nerve-racking passion that seizes you, and will commove the gradation mentality, and this phenomenal apathy varies with leader to leader.
Governor T.A has the mental resources and intellectual gradients which determines how he responds to the challenges and this has yielded much advantages and brought lot of change, either to sustain, transformation, retain growth and uphold the validity of progress Abia state over a period of time.

T.A Orji has examined the backwardness and build up rot which ensues from improper handling of issues that could obviously be traced from the inventive period when Abia state was created . He is a leader that does strive for a balance on its success and continuity,attract development in its justifiable act of genuinely democratic-polity and systematic approach forming basis of a democratic reality.it is true that is widely believed that Abia state can be said to have had a dysfunctional domain of history of downsize performance coming way back as from the time of creation of Abia state. people cast aspersion ,its is an every day norm, and it is always said that Abia leaders, governors, present and past lack transparently most reliable structures, certain operative context and diplomats hinging on knowledge in all their varieties as their ultimate resources and have fallen below the immediate goal of democratization of the electoral process which contradicts what is been expected of them by their followers.

Unlike T.A Orji, some if not all those who were before him were focused on personal interest by employing constricted and artful leadership styles and made no difference. T.A has demonstrated his administration without cynicism, and such an operative system is a necessity to achieving a critical project. He has manifested a firm reliance and his relationship-oriented manner has create the affinity amongst the people of Abia state.

T.A is a leader who is not arrogance, he is neither hostile nor dominance. he is possesses the character of a leader that does not create deep-seated antagonism between his aides and his underlings . T.A ORJI is a leader who is ever ready to endure the trashed heaped on his head, and he must not revile.

The past leaders in Abia had assumed that we do not have any dreams to be fulfilled, they lost track of the rudimentary process which was important to embark on and lead us to our destiny. Propaganda ate deep into their system,selfish interest brought down their values , and the significant of democratic leadership was not met and which made them to fail in their very tenures.

Not too long again before the fruitless tenure of Orji Uzor Kalu collapsed under the weight of repression , dictatorship and autocratic.-he turned the Abia state to a political laboratory and came up with a grandiose political transition that was described as the most non-democratically and non-profitable in of its era which produced no democracy. An administration which created the dullardity of no transformation. OUK's dual tenures were an industry whose business experience held no water in democratic terrain. Obviously he was unable to diffuse the polity in good manner.

But after his eviction from office by constitutional duration, came a man we should support his efforts ,that are spontaneously bringing the desired socio- economic development. T.A Orji made the different and with total consummation we will encourage him to observe continuity and be more clinical in avoidance of uneven disposition of democratic and political influence in order to balance energetic sense of purpose with a concern for the service of others

Ochendo is working,atleast he has recorded many achievement in health sector ,provided a lot to the youth to which many of them has relied on to lead a good life
T.A would remained honoured with sufficient grace to carry on the affairs of this great state of what many have described as one of the poorest states in the South East .His labour shall not be in vain, he has been steadfast, and has not be deterred by criticisms of those who knows nothing about democracy, about moral burden he inherited .But despite the challenges, he has made quite a huge effort which has resulted to a speedy development of our twenty two year old state. It’s obvious that the impact and contribution may have not been felt so swiftly, but am sure that in no less a time to come; Abians will find T.A Orji for more honours.
I saw how he started building a workers secretariat which seven executives (including two civilians) could not do. Visiting to what used to be general hospital Amachara and u will discover great transformation which T.A Orji has carried out. That hospital brings s me feeling of good memory, because my mom always told me I was born there. I am glad that the glory of the hospital and on the other hand saves us the agony of losing our loves ones to curable ailment. I would urge us to take a walk to the hospital; there are essential facilities at the specialist Hospital which are world class. You would be astonished as to the money invested in securing duality facilities like the dialysis machines, the MRI machines and more. Those who think these facilities do not mean anything should wait until they are struck by ailments.
I did not forget the tranquillity that has been the order of the day over the former Timber Market around World Bank Housing estate. Visiting the Industrial Market further confirmed that a huge difference has taken place in the Abia state.

I want to let you know that T.A has made his mark and has written his name in the good book,so if you must know T.A put in place many legacy projects, and one of his greatest legacies in this present administration is the sustenance of peace in the communities. This has impacted positively on development. Through its relevant agencies like the ministry, of local government and chieftaincy Affairs, it has resolved Ezeship and , inter- community disputes in rural, grassroots communities through prompt, settlement of 76 ezeship and inter-community disputes.
The government has provided conducive environment for local government administration by taking proactive decisions ‘fed actions on security reports received from the local governments. The Abia state government has continued to pay allowances of Ndieze regularly in addition to facilitating payment of over NI00m old debts as well as arrears of salaries owed by the 17 LGAs and ensured regular prompt payment of salaries owed by local governments in the state. The state government during the period under review completed the construction of the JAAC / Ndieze secretariat crescent with asphalt by direct labour; procured and distributed 3711 300KVA transformers to the 17 local governments and institutions in the state. Government also procured and distributed 72 vehicles to the 17 transition committee chairmen and all Revenue units of the 17 LGAs as well as the principal officers of Abia state traditional Rulers council. Government has also made funds available for the renovation of the local government headquarters and also produced uniform sign posts for them. The ministry in keeping with the governor’s directive empowered 6000 Abia youths across the local government areas.

I want to let you know that T.A has made his mark and has written his name in the good book,so if you must know T.A put in place many legacy projects, and one of his greatest legacies in this present administration is the sustenance of peace in the communities. This has impacted positively on development. Through its relevant agencies like the ministry, of local government and chieftaincy Affairs, it has resolved Ezeship and , inter- community disputes in rural, grassroots communities through prompt, settlement of 76 ezeship and inter-community disputes.
The government has provided conducive environment for local government administration by taking proactive decisions ‘fed actions on security reports received from the local governments. The Abia state government has continued to pay allowances of Ndieze regularly in addition to facilitating payment of over NI00m old debts as well as arrears of salaries owed by the 17 LGAs and ensured regular prompt payment of salaries owed by local governments in the state. The state government during the period under review completed the construction of the JAAC / Ndieze secretariat crescent with asphalt by direct labour; procured and distributed 3711 300KVA transformers to the 17 local governments and institutions in the state. Government also procured and distributed 72 vehicles to the 17 transition committee chairmen and all Revenue units of the 17 LGAs as well as the principal officers of Abia state traditional Rulers council. Government has also made funds available for the renovation of the local government headquarters and also produced uniform sign posts for them. The ministry in keeping with the governor’s directive empowered 6000 Abia youths across the local government areas.

who is that fool saying that salaries of teachers are not paid.This is a total blackmail,everything about this thread is a total derogation .I want to let you know that T.A has made his mark and has written his name in the good book,so if you must know T.A put in place many legacy projects, and one of his greatest legacies in this present administration is the sustenance of peace in the communities. This has impacted positively on development. Through its relevant agencies like the ministry, of local government and chieftaincy Affairs, it has resolved Ezeship and , inter- community disputes in rural, grassroots communities through prompt, settlement of 76 ezeship and inter-community disputes.
The government has provided conducive environment for local government administration by taking proactive decisions ‘fed actions on security reports received from the local governments. The Abia state government has continued to pay allowances of Ndieze regularly in addition to facilitating payment of over NI00m old debts as well as arrears of salaries owed by the 17 LGAs and ensured regular prompt payment of salaries owed by local governments in the state. The state government during the period under review completed the construction of the JAAC / Ndieze secretariat crescent with asphalt by direct labour; procured and distributed 3711 300KVA transformers to the 17 local governments and institutions in the state. Government also procured and distributed 72 vehicles to the 17 transition committee chairmen and all Revenue units of the 17 LGAs as well as the principal officers of Abia state traditional Rulers council. Government has also made funds available for the renovation of the local government headquarters and also produced uniform sign posts for them. The ministry in keeping with the governor’s directive empowered 6000 Abia youths across the local government areas.

Abia Signs PPP Framework for $1bn Osisioma Industrial Park


Based on its decision to relocate industrial workshops and warehouses within the state to a befitting site, the Abia State Government has entered into a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework with a firm, Acroideation International Limited, to commence the development of a $1 billion 300-hectare industrial park to be located at Osisioma.

The project, which first phase was expected to be inaugurated in December 2014 with the construction of about 34,346 units of workshops is however projected to consist of a totalled number of 68,692 units of industrial workshops and warehouses sited on 200 hectares, while 1,000 units of residential estate would occupy the remaining 100 hectares when completed.


Tagged the “Abia International Industrial City” (ABIIC), Head, Project Management Team of Acroideation, Seyi Olufade, told journalists yesterday in Abuja, that ABIIC, which was borne out of the need to establish key sectors of the economy of the state, would establish the foundation for the development of competitive domestic products for export, thus, launching the state into the rich field of global economy within time.


Olufade explained that with all its offerings such as expansive shopping malls, warehouses and over 10,000 capacity commercial car park amongst others, ABIIC which he said, was just about a kilometre from the state’s commercial town of Aba will be operated on a Build Operate and Manage (BOM) basis for 35 years from the date of inauguration by Acroideation.


He also said the firm had secured technical partnerships from European and Chinese firms, adding that the United Nations Industrial Organisation (UNIDO), Nigeria’s Bank of Industry (BoI) and Nigerian Investment Promotions Commission (NIPC) amongst others have shown keen interests in the industrial park.


Olufade said: “With the visit of the then Work Bank President, Paul Wolfowitz, in 2005 to view the popular Ariaria market Aba in company of the now Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, it was clear that all the affluence and influence are tucked in Ariaria market and the sway it portends to the Nigerian economy.


Critical elements affecting the growth of the industrial market include lack of product branding, design, packaging, marketing and funding, the ABIIC project is the response to these problems; it is a landmass of 300 hectares in Osisioma, about 1km from Aba town.”


He disclosed further that the industrial complex would rely on the 24 hours electric power supply pledge of the Geometric Aba Independent Power Plant to power its activities with further alternative arrangements, adding that the PPP had been crafted to insulate it from political interference in the case of changes in government.


“We have the strong partnership of the state government, the needed funding and technical expertise have been secured and we are ready to push forward the project with a groundbreaking event slated for September 2013 to herald the commencement of construction,” he stated.

Abia, making Aba a commercial hub. Good initiative

ABA MEGA MALL Abia State Government and Green-Field Company sign MOU The Aba Mega Mall is conceptualized as a fully sustainable ultra-modern trade and distribution centre. The Mall will consist of 5,830 ultra modern shops and they will come in four sizes of 12sq meters, 16sq meters, 24sq meters and 48sq meters as seen in the brochure. The facility will also have provisions for Banks, Security post, Petrol station, 25,000 sq meters of climate-controlled warehouse space, restaurants and a massive parking space for over 5,000 cars. In executing this project we are introducing cutting edge concrete building technology pioneered by our foreign partners JK Structures UK Ltd. This system entails the use of three dimensional galvanised steel mesh reinforced with galvanised wire beam and alleviated concrete. The JK structures system can deliver top quality mass housing and other civil works in a fraction of the time it takes using conventional building methods. This technology have been tried and tested in various parts of the world. For example, Euro Disney, Paris, the largest Amusement Park in Europe was constructed entirely on this technology. Aba has been a centre of commerce and trade for over 100 years. Today history has placed in the capable hands of Ochendo's administration the challenge of changing the nature and structure of Aba's legacy to a modern commercial city. As your administration embarks on this revolutionary transformation of Aba, history will record that your government was a catalyst to the rapid development of that great city. On our part, we wish to assure you that Greenfield Assets Ltd and her development partners will deliver a world-class facility that will stand the test of time and become a testimonial and an inspiration to present and future citizens of God's Own State. We are indeed highly honoured to be a part of this great venture.
ABA MEGA MALL
Abia State Government and Green-Field Company sign MOU

The Aba Mega Mall is conceptualized as a fully sustainable ultra-modern trade and distribution centre. The Mall will consist of 5,830 ultra modern shops and they will come in four sizes of 12sq meters, 16sq meters, 24sq meters and 48sq meters as seen in the brochure. The facility will also have provisions for Banks, Security post, Petrol station, 25,000 sq meters of climate-controlled warehouse space, restaurants and a massive parking space for over 5,000 cars.
In executing this project we are introducing cutting edge concrete building technology pioneered by our foreign partners JK Structures UK Ltd. This system entails the use of three dimensional galvanised steel mesh reinforced with galvanised wire beam and alleviated concrete.
The JK structures system can deliver top quality mass housing and other civil works in a fraction of the time it takes using conventional building methods. This technology have been tried and tested in various parts of the world. For example, Euro Disney, Paris, the largest Amusement Park in Europe was constructed entirely on this technology.
Aba has been a centre of commerce and trade for over 100 years. Today history has placed in the capable hands of Ochendo's administration the challenge of changing the nature and structure of Aba's legacy to a modern commercial city.
As your administration embarks on this revolutionary transformation of Aba, history will record that your government was a catalyst to the rapid development of that great city. On our part, we wish to assure you that Greenfield Assets Ltd and her development partners will deliver a world-class facility that will stand the test of time and become a testimonial and an inspiration to present and future citizens of God's Own State. We are indeed highly honoured to be a part of this great venture.

Governor Orji’s legacy projects


Abia State was carved out 22 years ago from former Imo State. The state inherited immovable infrastructures within her territory on creation, majority of which were legacies of late icons such as Michael Okpara, Sam Mbakwe, among other resourceful political forebears.

Before the emergence of Gov. T. A. Orji in 2007, five military administrators and two democratically elected governors had ruled Abia. The longest to have served was the immediate past governor who ruled for eight uninterrupted years. Brief insight into the state of things as they were will expose the terrible backwardness of Abia in almost all facets of development. However, for want of space, Umuahia will be the focal point here.

Umuahia, the state capital, the image and identity of Abia, passed off badly as a glorified council headquarters. There were no meaningful modern infrastructures befitting a city of such importance. Most of the buildings housing government ministries, departments and agencies, including some sections of the present Government House, were remnants of colonial heritage. The ugly sight of the present main market greeted visitors on entering Umuahia and government offices scattered throughout various unplanned distant locations in town. There were no identifiable functional government-owned health centres anywhere in the state.

The description of Umuahia capital was limited from Uwalaka Street to World Bank Housing Estate, which took less than 10 minutes to circumnavigate. Umuahia was so compressed that the popular Isigate was the only epicentre of all commercial activities, inclusive of motorists and tricycle operators. Development of the city taxis until recently was an illusion. Administration of justice was done in anachronistic office complexes. There was no standard conference centre. In this modern age of ICT, the state library remained the one used by Cyprian Ekwensi, Chinua Achebe and their contemporaries. Education infrastructures were anything but good. Of course, it takes an educated leader to know the importance of educational facilities.

Until recently, and except for a few wealthy, majority of Abians did not know how to access a comprehensive diagnostic service. The above state of affairs in Abia before 2007 generated a compulsive need for a multi-dimensional development approach in the state.

What is legacy? It simply means heritage, gift, inheritance, bequest or heirloom. By this description and the obvious lack of the facilities enumerated above, it is therefore instructive to note that Abia State, as it were, was short of requisite foundation that would have guaranteed necessary growth. For instance, there wouldn’t be need for a new Government House, High Court complexes, diagnostic centres, state-of-the-art conference centres, e-library, 260 new health centres in all the nook and cranny of Abia, new main market, new legislative office complex, new industrial and motor spare parts market, new workers’ secretariat, new residences for deputy governor and speaker, etc if Abia had them in the past. The funds spent on these would have been channelled to other areas. Can any of the jaded critics of this administration deflect any of these claims as non-existent? Or can any of these projects be related to any one of the past administrations?

One therefore wonders why the unreasonableness of choosing lies as a commanding strategy in a bid to discredit the iconic Ochendo, albeit unsuccessfully, just to incite public opprobrium against his mandate and re-establish contact to power to further the course of rapacious personalisation of Abia’s commonwealth.

The fact is that Abia lacked these projects in the past and Governor Orji, since assumption of office, conceptualised and embarked on aggressive, verifiable, tangible and cogent landmark infrastructural development of the state in line with the path expected of a frontline city in Aba and Umuahia. The undeniable fact about these projects is that not only will they outlive generations, they are also very pivotal to the sustainable development of the state.

As is the case in other major cities where location of major projects, such as universities and markets, attracts rapid urbanisation, the relocation of Umuahia main market, industrial market and spare parts market will be accompanied by speedy development of these areas. The new main market is a world class. The areas of land traversing parts of Ohuhu, Ubani Ibeku to Uzuakoli, which hitherto were not collaterable, have geometrically risen in value. The on-going housing estate situated beside the market adds a masterful glamour. The same is the case with other areas and that’s how it should be as expansion of the capital city follows the legacy projects.

Governor Orji has architecturally created a section in Umuahia city that is suitable to be called the NEW UMUAHIA. That is the cutting-edge of his development efforts as the new Government House, workers’ secretariat, conference centres, commissioners’ quarters, ASEPA building, BCA complex, JAAC office, House of Assembly, the e-library, the ultra-modern skill acquisition centre and other monumental institutions of government are all situated in this area.

It is expedient to note that the development efforts of Governor T. A. Orji cannot be exhaustively enumerated here. However, from every conceivable perspective, Ochendo is an honest leader who runs a transparent stewardship. He takes issues in a forthright manner and radiates confidence and objectivity. There is absolutely no justifiable basis for a comparative survey between Ochendo’s administration and the past, especially the immediate past. Here is a man who has not borrowed a dime and yet Abia is witnessing remarkable improvement in all sectors of the state economy.

I dare say that T. A. Orji is indeed operating on the same wavelength operated by Sam Mbakwe and M. I. Okpara. He has set a comfortable foundation for whoever is going to succeed him. His successor only needs to step up efforts on the prosperous pedestals put in place by Ochendo Global. The person needs to subscribe to the culture of tolerance, accommodation and populist ideological disposition to excel. The person should imbibe a mindset devoid of over-preponderance of personal interest. These are the qualities that mark Ochendo out.

Governor Orji’s humility, competence and forcefulness are not in doubt as he has shown uncommon dexterity in the management of human and material resources. He has the breadth of character, requisite finesse, wit and sharpness of mind, high moral integrity and sense of judgment characteristic of a true transformer. He has given Abians reasons to approach the future with great optimism. The legacies have just begun.

Ugochukwu Emezue: Governor Orji’s Legacy Projects are a Monument to His Vision, Determination.


Mr. Ugochukwu Emezue is Chief Press Secretary to Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State. In this interview with journalists in Lagos, Emezue applauds Orji’s leadership style and development effort. Charles Ajunwa, who was at the session, brings the excerpts:

What is your take on the continued attacks on Governor Theodore Orji by his opponents, despite the governor’s development strides?
In life, when people see your good works, it is not every person that will appreciate what you are doing and that is exactly what is happening today in Abia State. There are people who have seen that Governor T.A.Orji has done so well and rather than support and acclaim what he is doing, they resort to promoting falsehood and bare-faced lies in order to deceive the general public. For me, the main goal of those who engage in these mischievous acts is just to seek attention and relevance. Unfortunately, these are people who never achieved anything while they were in the leadership of the state. Now that Governor T.A. Orji has surpassed what they did, they are threatened by Ochendo’s outstanding achievements, which have dwarfed whatever be their so-called leadership for years that were not useful to the people of the state. So these criticisms are mere distractions and the whole world has come to see that Governor T.A. Orji is outstanding in all facets. Such criticisms, we know those behind them and, of course, these are people we consider as failed politicians.

Can you name some of the major achievements of the governor?
Let us start to look at His Excellency’s achievements, first, from the area of security. You and I know that time was in Abia when Abians were unsafe, courtesy of the issue of kidnapping and other negative vices like armed robbery. But today the governor of Abia State has risen above these challenges; he not only wiped out kidnapping he also sustained security in God’s Own State and that has won him enormous goodwill and accolades anywhere he goes. Governor T.A. Orji has been honoured within and outside the country as the best governor in terms of security in Nigeria. So this simply tells you that security is one thing that is germane and dear to the governor towards developing the state.

In the area of health, this is one sector that the governor has scored 100 per cent in terms of making health care accessible to all Abians. Indeed, Abians have never had it so good before now. We have the Dialysis Centre, which was inaugurated recently by the Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu. We have the Diagnostic Centres in both Aba and Umuahia, we have 250 health centres scattered across the state, in addition to a 100-bed hospital being built by the governor in nine local government areas of the state. We also have free medical services for all Abians, which is being administered through the office of Her Excellency, Chief (Mrs.) Mercy Odochi Orji. The governor is also erecting a new hall at the Abia State Teaching Hospital. The Nigerian Dental and Medical Association has approved Abia State Specialist Hospital for the training of our interns and very soon the homology centre will be ready for the general public to seek medical treatment. These are some of the things the governor has done in the area of health.

What has been the response of the federal government to the appeal by Orji during the inauguration of the Dialysis Centre in Umuahia that the central government should take over the Abia State Teaching Hospital?
It is an appeal that the governor of the state made, and we believe that President Goodluck Jonathan would accept our appeal because this is one hospital that Governor T.A. Orji has been able to put in place. And bearing in mind the resources we have to maintain most of these hospitals, it will be welcomed if the federal government can help us in this aspect.

What is happening in the area of agriculture?
The state government has done very well in the area of agriculture. You will discover that what we have today in the area of agriculture could best be described as a revolution. The governor has initiated what we call Ochendo Liberation Farms, which are scattered in the 17 local government areas of Abia State. The idea behind the establishment of the Ochendo Liberation Farms is primarily to train our youth and empower them so that at the end of the day they would become self-employed. The governor, because his love for agriculture, took N1 billion loan which was given to farmers in the state. In fact, the N1 billion loan secured by Governor T.A. Orji has in no small way helped the farmers in terms of increasing productivity. Today, Abia State has been adjudged as having the highest number of farmers in the whole of the South-east, which is a plus for us. Also, in the area of cocoa production Abia State is ranked first in the whole of the country and Chief David Onyenweaku, who is from Abia, is the best cocoa producer in country today.

In Ohambele, the rubber plantation there has been privatised by the state government. We also have the Songhai Farm, which is functional, and even recently the governor distributed cocoa seedlings to our farmers. The governor has remained supportive to the farmers since the inception of his administration in 2007. Like he said, he wants to achieve what late Dr. M.I. Okpara did and if possible surpass what the former premier of the defunct Eastern Region did in the area of agriculture.

What would you say about Orji in the area of youth empowerment?
Without sounding immodest, our youth empowerment programme has become a model for other states in the country. This is an empowerment scheme that has effected positively our youths and the governor has used this initiative to empower thousands of our youths. Apart from giving financial support to the youths, we are giving out laptops, tricycles, buses, hair barbing kits and many others to youths of the state. The idea is to empower the youths and make them self-sustaining and through the youth empowerment scheme we are also sustaining security. This is one area that the governor has recorded a great feat. The governor has continued to provide various items to the youths periodically and just a few days ago buses were given out to some youths to help them make ends meet.

What is your reaction to the recent allegation by one Norman Obinna, who described himself as an Abuja-based journalist, that most of the projects claimed by Orji never existed?
I am a journalist of many years experience and I personally know most of our colleagues. Of course, somebody called me and said he is a journalist based in Abuja. When I asked him where he worked, he said he worked with Compass newspapers and when I made my checks, I discovered that he was not a staff of Compass newspaper. When I approached him with this fact, he quickly retorted that he was an internet blogger. I asked him what actually he wanted from us, he said he had things written against Abia State government and he wanted us to react. I said, can you tell me some of these things, and the communication between us was done on the phone. He said most of them and I quickly reacted to his claims. At this point, he said no, that what he wanted was for me to settle him so that he could drop the story. He demanded for N5 million and I told him I could not give him such money. I told him if he could be bold enough that he should publish my own reaction in his story. When he finally published his story, he never included my own reaction. I am not moved by that kind of thing because he is a blackmailer. He is not a journalist that he claimed to be, any person can go to the internet and write all sorts of things and take it to any level. But for us, it is obvious that the so-called Obinna is being sponsored by those who don’t see anything good in Abia State. Obinna is a mischievous and misguided fellow. He is saying that the Dialysis Centre that we built is not functioning, which, of course, is not true. You people have visited this Dialysis Centre and other projects we have completed, including the ongoing ones. These projects are not fake, as claimed by Obinna. They are verifiable projects that people can see.

The Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, was here and he saw all these things. So is Obinna more exposed than Maku? The Senate President, David Mark, came here to inaugurate our housing estate, is Obinna higher than the Senate President? The Speaker of House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, came here to inaugurate ASEPA (Abia State Environmental Protection Agency) building and the Industrial Market, is Obinna higher than Tambuwal? You can easily decipher where people like Obinna and his cohorts are coming from, people who are seeking relevance and attention. I even told the Obinna to come to Abia that we will be celebrating our 22nd anniversary of the creation of Abia so that he can confirm all the things I told him on the phone but he went ahead and published his story. For us, those things published by Obinna are tissues of lies because credible journalists have come here and they have seen these projects and reported them in their various medium. So we are not moved by such lies being propagated by Obinna and his co-travellers because we believe that the governor of Abia State has done very well. Obinna talked about Aba, there is no way the governor can turn Aba around in a day.

But what has changed in Aba?
A lot has changed in Aba in terms of the environment. If you go there you will see that the governor has done so much work. Look at all those big gutters blocked by refuse for many years, they have been scooped and water is now finding its level down to the stream. The government of Governor T.A. Orji is beautifying Aba; if you go to the Osisioma Junction you could see the great work carried out there. The governor has even created ASEPA for Aba and they are doing their work very well. The governor promised to do about 16 roads in Aba, and he was able to achieve 12 before the raining season set in. The remaining roads will be completed when we enter the dry season. After all, those who were there before him if they were able to do these things, all the governor would have needed to do was to add his own strength, but nothing was done. The Aba we are talking about today was in a big problem before the governor took over and he is cleaning up Aba and this is there for every journalist to see.

Is the Peoples Democratic Party government in Abia State not worried by the recent remarks by the state’s chapter of All Progressives Grand Alliance that the party would win the state in 2015?
With what Chief T.A. Orji has done in Abia, I’m yet to see anybody that can penetrate the state. That is a fact, we are not boasting but it remains a strong fact. And this is one PDP state where you see all the gladiators working together and there is no crisis in Abia State. The leader, who is the governor of the state, is in tandem with all the stakeholders in the party and whenever something happens you see them coming around to brain storm on the way forward. PDP is the biggest party in Abia State and there is no fear at all. T.A. Orji and Abia PDP are on the ground. In 2015, when they will be telling people, “This is what we will do,” the governor will be telling them, “This is what I have done.” That will separate the boys from men. So they have to talk anyway, but what is on ground will speak for us.

What should Abians expect during the 22nd anniversary of the state, which comes up later this month?
A lot of activities have been lined up to celebrate the day because when you look at Abia, what it was before and what it is today, you know that there is a huge departure, as a lot of things have been put in place. The legacy projects are there for everyone to see and I’m sure most of our colleagues who will also come around will see some of these projects themselves because everyday new things are happening. That is a fact. So I believe that 27th of this month will be a day to thank God for giving Governor T.A, Orji the strength, wisdom and knowledge to take Abia this far.------Thisday