Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State was at the Michael Okpara Square, Independence Layout, Enugu, on Saturday, to pray and honour the fallen heroes in commemoration of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD).

Gov. Ugwuanyi who on arrival at the venue of the annual event, observed and inspected the Parade mounted by the Military, laid the Remembrance Wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and released the pigeons symbolizing peace, after Christian and Islamic prayers were offered for the repose of the fallen heroes’ souls and the wellbeing of their families.

The governor thereafter identified with wives of the fallen heroes present at the event and announced donation of gift items to them in commemoration of the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

The Wreaths were also laid by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division of the Nigeria Army, Major General T. A. Lagbaja, represented by the Garrison Commander, Brig. Gen. C.A. Ataki; the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Ground Training Command, Nigerian Air Force, Enugu, AVM Ibikunle Daramola; the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; the Acting Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Raymond Ozoemena; the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Abukakar Lawal; the Chairman of Nigerian Legion, Enugu State Council, Asst. Cmdt. General Emeka Norman Igwesi; the Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu, and representative of wives of fallen heroes.

The Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; members of the state parliament; members of the State Executive Council and other top government functionaries; Judges of the State Judiciary; other Heads of Security Agencies in the state; Senior Military Officers; and members of the Nigerian Legion, Enugu State Council, attended the colourful event.

Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike of Rivers State has described Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State as a good man and one of the shinning lights of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria.

Gov. Wike also described Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a humble, gentle and God fearing leader” as well as “a very reliable brother and friend”.

The governor made the commendations when he led members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Council Chairmen and elders of the state including a former governor of Rivers State, Sir Celestine Omehia to pay a fraternal visit to Gov. Ugwuanyi at his country home in Ohom Orba, Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, in the spirit of the New Year festivities.

According to Gov. Wike, “This man (Ugwuanyi) you are seeing here, he is very quiet, very humble but he knows what to do at any point in time.

“Gov. Ugwuanyi is not a noise maker, he does not shout like me; he is very humble, he takes everything gently. He is a God fearing man”.

Conveying the fraternal greetings of the Government and people of Rivers State to the people of Enugu State, Gov. Wike, who disclosed that he was amazed by the array of leaders of Enugu State that came to receive him, stressed that Gov. Ugwuanyi deserves his commendations.

His words: “I am not a sycophant and I will not be a sycophant. I am not here to eulogize anybody who is not supposed to be eulogized.

“But when you see good thing you say this is good thing. When you see bad thing you say this is bad thing. I don't identify with those who do not mean well for their people.

“This man (Ugwuanyi) you are seeing here, he is very quiet, very humble but he knows what to do at any point in time. Gov. Ugwuanyi is not a noise maker, he does not shout like me, he is very humble, he takes everything gently. He is a God fearing man.

“I called my brother (Ugwuanyi) and I told him that I am coming to see him. That one of the governors I must see before we start work for the New Year, starting from tomorrow (Tuesday) must be Governor of Enugu State.

“I have not danced in any of the states I have gone to but I have to dance here. This man is a good man; a good man in all ramifications”.

Describing Gov. Ugwuanyi as one of the shinning lights of the PDP, Gov. Wike thanked him for his support and the brotherhood both of them share together, and urged him to remain focused, courageous and strong in supporting the Party.

Gov. Wike, who was conferred with the Chieftaincy title of “Agu n’ eche ibe of Enugu State” by the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council in recognition of his sterling leadership qualities, enjoined the people and leaders of Enugu State to continue to rally round Gov. Ugwuanyi in his pursuit of peace and good governance.

Welcoming Gov. Wike to his country home, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who described him as “the Seven Star Governor of Rivers State”, said that the Rivers State Governor has distinguished himself as a visionary, bold and audacious leader, adding: “You have inspired trust and confidence in our democracy; you have been a defender of the defenseless; and you have continued to glorify God with the instrumentality of your office”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi told Gov. Wike that “we are proud of your accomplishments as Governor of Rivers State, elected on the platform of our great Party”.

According to Gov. Ugwuanyi, “This fraternal visit signposts the deepening of the fellowship between the Government and good people of the Treasure Base of the Nation and the Coal City states.

“I am glad that Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council under the leadership of her Chairman, His Royal Majesty, Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzu deemed it fit to confer on you the revered title of ‘Agu n’ eche ibe of Enugu State’ as a testament to this camaraderie and your sterling leadership qualities as well as a memento of this auspicious visit”.

Dignitaries at the event include the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; former Governor of old Enugu State, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo; the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; Members of the National and State Assemblies; Enugu State Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Augustine Nnamani; his Rivers State’s counterpart, Amb. Desmond Akawor; former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara and other former Members of the National Assembly; PDP Board of Trustees Member, Amb. Mrs. Justina Eze; former President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo; Members of the Enugu State Executive Council; Council Chairmen; former Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Timi Alaibe; Traditional Rulers, among others.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has hosted the immediate-past Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development in the state, Dr. Victor Chukwuemeka Nnam at rhe Government House.

Ugwuanyi, during the visit, felicitated with the people of the state in particular and Nigerians in general. He urged them to renew their faith in God and be committed to things that would promote peace, unity and progress.

Ugwuanyi while receiving Nnam who came in company of his friends, family members and well wishers, promised to sustain the tempo of peace and good governance in the state to improve the living standard of the people as the true heroes of democracy.

The Governor said the State “is in the hands of God”, maintaining that true forgiveness should be the message of the season.

“The challenges of the economic realities would demand that Nigerians rededicate themselves and their energies to the task of nation building. Nigerians need a deep sober reflection, as they embrace 2022 in order to tackle the myriads of socio-economic problems that confronted the people in 2021,” Ugwuanyi said

Dr. Nnam said the purpose of the visit was to give honour to whom is due, despite the controversy that followed his resignation.

He said: “In the spirit of Christmas and New year celebrations, we should give praise to the almighty God whose grace sustained us throughout 2021 despite all the challenges of life.

“Being alive is a privilege, let’s embrace one another and work together for the betterment of the state.”

Nnam alongside his wife, Mrs. Divine Nnam, his brothers, Uchechukwu Nnam, Mr. Michael Nnam, Chief Freedom Nnam, Chief Innocent Nnaji, his friends to include; Chukwuka Ugwu, Mezie Ashuke, Fabian Nyia amongst others, wished the Governor and the government of the state a prosperous and productive years ahead.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Thursday, assented to the 2022 appropriation bill of N186,635,135,582.00 (One Hundred and Eighty Six Billion, Six Hundred and Thirty Five Million, One Hundred and Thirty Five Thousand, Five Hundred and Eighty Two Naira) passed by the State House of Assembly on Wednesday, December 29, 2021.

Presenting the appropriation bill to Gov. Ugwuanyi for assent, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi disclosed that the budget proposal was not contentious, stressing that “it was a very wonderful budget of international standard”.

He pointed out that 38 percent Recurrent Expenditure and 62 percent Capital Expenditure contained in the budget met international standard.

Hon. Ubosi explained that all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) were invited to appear before the various committees to defend their budget estimates, adding that they all complied accordingly.

The Speaker said that critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, works and infrastructure and water resources got robust allocations to ensure that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration continue to improve the living standard of the people of the state.

“Looking at the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure which is about N36 billion, it shows that you (Ugwuanyi) are prepared to fulfill the campaign promises you made to the people of Enugu State.

“Your Excellency, the budget was well packaged and we must commend you and members of your executive for that wonderful budget”, he said.

Assenting to the budget bill, Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed gratitude to the members of the State House of Assembly for their commitment and dedication to legislative duties as well as the development of Enugu State.

Appreciating the synergy and harmonious relationship between his administration and state legislature, Gov. Ugwuanyi beseeched God and expressed confidence that the budget would be implemented faithfully for the people of the state to enjoy more dividends of democracy.

Also present at the event were the Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu and other members of the State House of Assembly, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr. Festus Uzor, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Prof. Malachy Okwueze, and the Clerk of the House, Barr. Dr. Emmanuel Udaya.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Members of a socio-cultural organization in the Enugu North Senatorial zone of Enugu State, known as Odinma Nsukka, have unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for entrenching enduring peace and stability in the state and for his unprecedented infrastructural development especially in the rural areas.

Rising from their well attended Annual General meeting held at Odinma Nsukka Secretariat at Ede-Oballa, Nsukka Local Government Area, yesterday, members of the association led by their Chairman, Engr. Vita Abba, expressed profound gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for enthroning an enduring atmosphere of peace in the state, adding that his administration's infrastructural strides particularly in the rural areas in spite of the lean resources at its disposal were impressive and commendable.

The meeting, which was essentially a gathering of leaders and stakeholders in the Enugu North Senatorial zone, reaffirmed the commitment as well as the solidarity and unflinching support of the people of Nsukka for the governor and his people-oriented programmes and policies.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of Odinma Nsukka, Engr. Abba thanked the members for their individual and collective contributions to the noble course of the group aimed at promoting the good works of the governor as well as peace, unity and progress among people of the zone in particular and the state in general.

“I want to thank all of you who are here and the entire Nsukka people for all their unalloyed support for our illustrious son, the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Your support is not taken for granted”, Engr. Abba stated.

The Chairman disclosed that the resolution of the entire Nsukka people on November, 2020 at Nsukka High School field, that they are solidly behind Gov. Ugwuanyi and his decisions in the 2023 general elections, remains sacrosanct.

Among those who spoke in a similar vein were the coordinator, Barr Ifeanyi Ossai; the chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Enugu State chapter (ALGON), Hon Solomon Onah; the members of National Assembly represented by the duo of Rt. Hon. Pat Asadu and Hon. Simon Atigwe, alongside members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, represented by Rt. Hon. Chinedu Nwamba.

They deplored subterranean attempts by persons outside the zone to frustrate Nsukka people's common resolve to offer their express loyalty to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. "We urge the people from the zone to be patient and united behind their son who is the governor," they said.

Hon. Asadu specifically reminded the mammoth gathering that historically, the Nsukka people had often, in concert with other zones, sought political guidance from an incumbent governor with regard to the direction of succession, in collaboration with stakeholders. "The case of Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi should not be different," he noted.

Many speakers who spoke at the gathering praised the impressive turnout, urging the people to be steadfast and confident in the state governor's ability to steer Nsukka people, and Enugu State generally, on the right path.

On the occasion of this year’s Yuletide, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has congratulated Christians, the good people of Enugu State and indeed, all Nigerians on yet another opportunity to celebrate God’s abiding grace and salvation for mankind through the birth of Jesus Christ.

Gov. Ugwuanyi noted that the commemoration of Christ's birth symbolizes God's love for humanity and His faithfulness in sending a Saviour to redeem the world.

The governor, who appreciated God for His goodness and mercies, urged Nigerians to remain steadfast and committed to prayers and other engagements that promote peace, love, unity, security and progress of the country.

While thanking ‘Ndi Enugu’ for their unceasing love, prayers, solidarity, support and goodwill, Gov. Ugwuanyi wished all Nigerians Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

He reassured the people of Enugu State of his firm resolve to continue to serve them with the fear of God, and to sustain the tempo of peace and good governance in the state in spite of all the challenges in the country.

The ongoing construction of the first Enugu State Government’s Flyover at T-junction, Nike Lake Road, Enugu, one of the top-flight projects of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration comprising 105 meters bridge section, 590m ramps in cumulative length and four Service lanes, reaches advanced stage of completion, to ease traffic jam around the Abakpa-Nike and Nike Lake Resort axis of Enugu metropolis.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

…As Commission’s National President lauds governor’s exemplary leadership role

*Honour, a very humbling experience for me - Gov

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State was, on Tuesday, conferred with the ‘Best Pilgrimage Governor in the South East Nigeria’ award by the National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) “for committing resources towards the growth and sustenance of Christian Pilgrimage in Nigeria”.

Presenting the award to Gov. Ugwuanyi, the Executive Secretary, National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam said the Commission was impressed with the governor’s commitment to God and the spiritual objectives of the religious exercise, stressing that his administration’s contributions to the noble course in spite of the nation’s challenges are exemplary.

Dr. Pam also expressed delight that Gov. Ugwuanyi has kept the spirit of Enugu alive as “the political, economic and religious headquarters of the South East as designed by the founding fathers”.

The NCPC Executive Secretary disclosed that Enugu came first among the five states of the South East that sponsored pilgrims during the last exercise, saying: “The number of pilgrims that came from Enugu overwhelmed all the other states and that shows that not only politically you (Ugwuanyi) are coordinating, but spiritually you are leading and the best way to encourage you is to come here physically with an award for the best governor in the South East”.

Dr. Pam added that Enugu came third nationally in terms of states that sponsored highest number of pilgrims in the last exercise.

He, therefore, acknowledged Gov. Ugwuanyi as “a friend and an ambassador of NCPC, stating: “You remain our number one ambassador in the South East”.

According to him, “This is one of the reasons that has led us to come here to encourage you that you remain the father to the South East not only in the aspect of pilgrimage but other works we have seen that you have done in terms of infrastructure in the rural areas, in terms of street lights, in terms of intervention on federal roads, among others we have seen with our physical eyes.

“We have also seen your interventions in other areas, and the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board and the Board Chairman have equally briefed me on all you have been doing in terms of giving full support, office and mobilization to them.

“Permit to say that even the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) which I am also part of has told me of your efforts in supporting the Church leaders in Enugu and even outside Enugu. At the same time, you are a friendly governor; time without number I have seen top religious leaders not only Christians but also those from different faith; I have seen top political leaders coming to Enugu and you have always given them a handshake. No wonder you were able to overcome the crisis of insecurity and all other crises that are disturbing different states; you have gone above them by the grace of God.

“On behalf of the NCPC, I confer on you the 2020 Award of Excellence as the highest sponsor of Christian Pilgrimage in South Eastern Nigeria. Congratulations!”.

Receiving the award, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who went prophetic, described the event as a very humbling experience for him, saying: “All my life, predating my political odyssey, I have always pursued a life of service to others, believing that the goodness of man to man is the God we see”.

According to the governor, “When the Grace of God came calling and it pleased the most High that I become the Chief Servant of this great state, it came as a tonic and opportunity for greater service to greater number of people.

“At inception, our administration put Enugu State in the Hands of God and His Hands have been manifest in all we do. He has delivered us through the most turbulent times and His blessings are still counting.

“The Government and good people of Enugu State are firmly in the Hands of the awe-inspiring God, the El Shaddai, the Adonai, the Yahweh, the Jehovah Nissi, the Elohim, from whom our help comes”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi thanked the leadership of NCPC for the great honour and delightfully dedicated it to the members of the Body of Christ in Enugu State, “the Clergy and other Christian faithful whose prayers, counsel and support afford us the Grace of God for navigating the challenges as they come”.

The governor while also thanking members of the Commission for appreciating the modest efforts of his administration, added: “But indeed all thanksgiving belong to God and the Awardees are the practitioners of Christian Faith in Enugu State”.

Announcing that the State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved the state’s sponsorship of Christian faithful for the February 2022 pilgrimage, to seek God’s face in the New Year, Gov. Ugwuanyi reiterated that his administration shall continue to encourage the people of the state to deepen the practice of Christian faith.

“In the thick of the storms of 2020, encouraging our people to pray and seek divine intervention was indeed our most potent therapy. We prayed, fasted, sponsored our people to embark on pilgrimage.

“To us, 2020 pilgrimage was not just a cost centre but was also the most needful. I dare say, that it worked like magic; it will always work, for the promise of God never fails. We have peace, security and an economically thriving state, to the Glory of God”, the governor said.

The event was witnessed by the State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Mrs. Mabel Agbo; the Executive Secretary of the Board, Barr. Nestor Ezeme; the Chairman, Enugu State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Rev. Emmanuel Edeh; the Chaplain, Government House, Enugu, Rev. Fr. Chinedu Ozoude (Board Member); the Chairman, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Enugu State, Bishop Dr. Godwin Madu (Board Member); the wife of Archbishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Enugu State, Ezinne Nkechi Ede (Board Member ; the South Zonal Coordinator, NCPC, Sunday Udeh, among others.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has raised the alarm over attempts by some unpatriotic and callous individuals to vandalise and steal the facilities put in place by the state government in academic institutions at the basic, secondary and tertiary levels for the advancement of education in the state.

The state government raised the alarm in a statement by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Uche Eze.

Prof. Eze noted that the unpatriotic and callous acts were inimical to the untiring efforts of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration in vigorously pursuing quality education for the children of the state, stressing that the state government has invested heavily in the construction, renovation and equipping of educational institutions at the basic, secondary and tertiary levels.

The Commissioner therefore announced that "the state government has directed that no social or sporting activities organised by any person or group shall take place henceforth in any of the state public educational institutions without the written approval of the Hon. Commissioner for Education upon a request through the appropriate Board or Parastatals".

The state government further directed heads of primary, secondary and tertiary institutions to henceforth ensure the proper clearing of the school environment and restriction of unauthorised entrance into the school premises to avoid any fire outbreak this Harmattan season.

"All heads of primary, secondary and tertiary institutions are, therefore, directed to ensure strict compliance", Prof. Eze said.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, yesterday, joined members of the Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN) in their last Crusade for 2021, to the admiration of the Eucharist Adorers who cheered the governor for his humility, commitment to God as well as uncommon disposition to peace and good governance in the state.

Welcoming Gov. Ugwuanyi on arrival amid loud ovation and cheers from the large crowd, the Spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministry, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka applauded the governor for his commitment to peace and good governance as well as his solidarity, brotherly love, friendship and paternal support to the Ministry.

Fr. Mbaka who described Gov. Ugwuanyi as "a good man, a member of the Adoration Ministry, a father and friend to this Ministry" disclosed that under Ugwuanyi's leadership, the Ministry has enjoyed peace, love and quality access road, stressing: "Otherwise we would have been in a forest that will be difficult to locate, just to mention a few among other great things His Excellency has been doing for this Ministry".

The Spiritual Director said the Adorers are happy with the governor, adding: "We are happy you are here to witness the end of the Crusade; our prayers will continue to go for you".

Fr. Mbaka prayed for Gov. Ugwuanyi and beseeched that "the hand of God would never depart from you in Jesus Name".

Gov. Ugwuanyi, who praised and worshipped God with the Adorers, wished them a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Ukpo community, Anambra State, on Saturday, conferred on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, the Chieftaincy title of "Ifezulumba", in recognition of his "contributions towards the development of Ukpo and mankind," by His Majesty Igwe Dr. Robert C. Eze (Okofia VI) the Igwe Ukpo and Clan Head of Dunukofia Ancient Kingdom, Anambra State, during the 30th Ukpo Ofala Celebration.

The event was witnessed by the illustrious son of Ukpo community, an international business mogul and a renowned philanthropist, Prince Engr. Arthur Eze (Ebube Ukpo, Ozoigbondu); the Senator Representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Iyom Senator Uche Ekwunife (who was also conferred with the Chieftaincy title of “Ifekaolaedo”); the National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South East Zone, Chief Ali Odefa, among others.

…As REC hails governor’s swift intervention

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Friday, inaugurated and handed over the newly renovated Enugu State Office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), burnt by unknown gunmen some months ago.

Recall that trailing the unfortunate attack on INEC's office in Enugu, Gov. Ugwuanyi inspected the facility and promised that his administration will rebuild the burnt structure to enable the electoral body continue to discharge its constitutional duties efficiently and effectively in the state.

Handing over the structure to the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Enugu State, Dr. Emeka Joseph Ononamadu, Gov. Ugwuanyi, represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Mrs. Mabel Agbo, disclosed that the state government in spite of its dwindling resources went ahead to fulfill the promise to contribute to the strengthening of the electoral process as well as encourage continuous improvement of the conduct of elections in the country.

The governor stated that a critical review of the general performance of INEC in Enugu State in particular and Nigeria in general shows that the electoral body has succeeded in introducing processes that have helped in entrenching and deepening the nation’s democratic experience.

Gov. Ugwuanyi reiterated his administration’s commitment and interest in ensuring that there is no hindrance towards continuous improvement in the electoral process, stressing that it was in keeping with this commitment that the state government went out of its way to renovate the INEC office within the short period it was burnt.

Appreciating the good work the INEC REC is doing in the state, Gov. Ugwuanyi pledged his administration’s continuous support to the Commission in all areas, within the limited resources available to the state.

Responding, INEC REC in Enugu State, Dr. Ononamadu, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for coming to their rescue by renovating their burnt office.

Dr. Ononamadu expressed delight that the structure has been renovated to standard courtesy of the Enugu State government, saying: “We sincerely appreciate this noble gesture by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration”.

…As governor unveils company in Enugu

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Audi Company Limited, Mr. Clem Ifezue has commended Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for his commitment and contributions in ensuring that businesses flourish in the state.

Mr. Ifezue who made the commendation when Gov. Ugwuanyi unveiled the Audi Company Limited and Partners South-Eastern Business Hub in Enugu, on Thursday, disclosed that the business outfit, which offers services in power solution, automobile and engineering works, was established in the state following the outcome of the objective survey carried out by the company across the five states of the South East geo-political zone.

The Audi boss stated that all the indices towards the choice of state for the establishment of the company in the South East, in terms of security, peaceful atmosphere, human resources, historical background and centrality, favoured Enugu State.

He noted that the Enugu office was established to bring the company’s products closer to the final consumers who are dominant in the South East.

According to him, “Siting where the company will be in the South East became a challenge. We looked at security of the states; the state with the best security. We went further to look at the reports from the Nigeria Police. We looked again at the historical background of all the South East states. We also looked at the state that has created the best environment for businesses to thrive. We once again looked at the human resources, where we can have people that will be able to deliver our goals.

“In all the indices Enugu State came first. His Excellency (Ugwuanyi) we thank you for your commitment and all you have done to make business prosper in Enugu State”.

Also in his opening prayer, the Chaplain, Government House, Awka, Anambra State, Rev. Fr. Patrick Okafor stressed that “Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration has been able to provide the enabling environment for this industry to thrive”, and thanked the governor for his dedication to peace, development and business growth in Enugu State.

Unveiling the company, Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed delight that the company has joined the growing number of businesses and investments that have birthed in Enugu State under his administration.

The governor stated that his administration has continued to serve as a business and investment enabler through the sustained provision of a friendly business and investment climate underpinned by robust infrastructure, peace, security, consistent and favourable policies, friendly tax regime and professional regulatory oversight.

According to him, “We go a step further by facilitating all bureaucratic processes required for starting and doing business through our One-Stop-Investment-Centre (OSIC) under the Enugu State Investment Development Authority (ESIDA).

Pointing out that many business and investment promoters have taken advantage of the opportunity provided by his administration by deciding on Enugu as a preferred destination in their location consideration, Gov. Ugwuanyi applauded the management of Audi Company Limited for the decision to locate their South- Eastern Business Hub in Enugu.

The governor therefore welcomed the company to Enugu and conveyed “the felicitations of the government and good people of Enugu State, as well as their expectation of your impactful presence in job creation, wealth creation and the state’s internal revenue”.

The Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi and other top government functionaries witnessed the event.

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State through the State Fire Service has frowned at the spate of unauthorized and indiscriminate location of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)/Cooking Gas plants in the state, stressing that the associated risks are grievous because of the high inflammability of the substance.

Speaking during the ongoing state-wide fire safety training workshop held separately at Nsukka and Igbo-Etiti local government areas, the State Chief Fire Officer, Engr. Okwudiri Ohaa, disclosed that “these small LPG refill outlets have geometrically increased the Fire Risk situation in our society today”.

Engr. Ohaa who pointed that “it is the mandate of the fire service to fight fire, prevent fire and perform rescue functions during emergencies”, adding that part of the agency’s regulatory function is to “inspect, recommend appropriate fire safety measures and issue fire permit/fire safety reports where these LPG (Cooking Gas) outlets and plants should be located”.

The Enugu State Fire Chief revealed that the State Fire Service has in its usual proactive nature embarked on enforcement to close and prosecute those behind all illegal LPG retail outlets and plants across the state.

According to him, “As the Chief Fire Officer of Enugu State, I have constituted and empowered an enforcement team to ensure that the exercise is professionally done. The enforcement team is working with relevant stakeholders including the LPG Retail Association and the Nigeria Police to ensure that Enugu State continues to be safe.

“A total compliance with fire safety is therefore demanded from all LPG (Cooking Gas) operators, domestic users and users of other flammable and non-flammable materials to avoid fire outbreak in Enugu State”.

Engr. Ohaa who sought the cooperation and engagement of individuals and corporate bodies for “an air tight fire safety environment in Enugu State”, hinted that the workshops in Nsukka and Igbo-Etiti LGAs were in continuation of the fire safety awareness campaign across the 17 LGAs of the state aimed at safeguarding lives and property.

“We adopted this approach of engagement with the traditional institutions, the Presidents General, Market Leaders, Neighborhood Watch groups, religious and youth groups because we want this fire safety workshop to be wholesome to create a safer and more secured living environment for us, our friends and family.

“For this reason, we stand with His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the Executive Chairman of Nsukka LGAs, Hon. Barr. Cosmas Ugwueze, the Executive Chairman of Igbo-Etiti LGA, Hon. Mrs. Nkechi Ugwu-Oju, and other 15 Council Chairmen, together with the good people of Enugu State to say No to fire outbreak in Enugu State”.

In her speech, the Chairman of Igbo-Etiti LGA, Hon. Mrs. Ugwu-Oju applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his exceptional leadership, and for providing the enabling environment for the council chairmen to work to complement the efforts of his administration in addressing the plight of the people in the rural areas.

Mrs. Ugwu-Oju described the fire safety outreach as awesome and educating, saying that “we have learnt a lot”.

Also in his speech, the Chairman of Nsukka LGA, Hon. Ugwueze thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for availing the people at the grassroots the unique opportunity to be educated and sensitized on fire.

Represented by the Secretary of the Council, Hon. Charles Nnamdi Onyeke, Hon. Ugwueze equally commended the State Chief Fire Officer, Engr. Ohaa for his vast knowledge in the fire sector, urging the participants to utilize what they learnt from the training to enhance the safety of their environment.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman, Council of Traditional Rulers, Enugu North Senatorial District, Igwe Barr. R.S.N. Eze lauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for the proactive measures as well as the positive transformation being witnessed in the State Fire Service.

Igwe Eze stated that the upgrade of the fire service stations and construction of new ones have enabled the people of the state to benefit maximally from the services of the agency, stressing that the fire safety workshop was unprecedented in the history of the state.

His words: “This enlightenment has made us to know certain things. Formerly, I didn’t know that one has to crawl in the event of fire outbreak; I thought that one must run.

“We sincerely thank and highly commend our governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for the numerous innovations his administration has brought to bear in the transformation of the fire sector for the safety of lives and property in Enugu State”.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State yesterday flagged off Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) mass vaccination campaign in the state.

Gov. Ugwuanyi also used the occasion to launch the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund Programme Implementation in Enugu State explaining that the two important and closely related programmes in the health sector were commenced together “in our frontal attack on the Coronavirus pandemic”.

Represented by his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that his administration, since the outbreak of COVID-19, has been proactively taking all the necessary measures for prompt containment of the virus including the implementation of sundry programmes designed to mitigate the negative impacts of the pandemic on the people of the state.

The governor added that the state government also carried out comprehensive upgrade and conception of the health systems “and wide deployment of social safety nets and other measures designed to reduce resulting fragilities and sustain our livelihoods”.

Stressing that mass vaccination is a global and nationwide measure adjudged by both World Health Organization (WHO) and National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to effectively combat the obviously rampaging pandemic, Gov. Ugwuanyi stated that the state government through the flagship of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ENS-PHCDA) and Ministry of Health has commenced the mass vaccination campaign for the administration of COVID-19 vaccines for those who have not been vaccinated before.

The governor pointed out that the mass vaccination campaign targets at least 50 percent of the eligible population of Enugu State, expressing delight that ENS-PHCDA is leaving no stone unturned to achieve this target.

“Accordingly, it (ENS-PHCDA) has taken concrete steps to expand vaccination sites to at least one primary healthcare centre in every ward. It has also created vaccination sites in all our secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities in addition to 24 new mass vaccination centres, 36 mobile vaccination vans and some selected private healthcare facilities designated as vaccination sites”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi who noted that ENS-PHCDA has received deserved commendations from both the NPHCDA and Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for its sheer determination in maintaining its pace since the commencement of the exercise in Nigeria, appealed to residents of Enugu State who has not been vaccinated to get immunized against the rampaging pandemic.

Launching the implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) programme, the governor hinted that the action was sequel to the approval by the NPHCDA to implement the programme in all the 291 healthcare facilities in the state, which translates to at least one per ward.

The fund will enable government to provide the additional and improved infrastructure, personnel and materials that can enhance the services provided in the healthcare facilities.

The governor further stated that Enugu was one of the few states that got all its recommended primary healthcare facilities approved for the implementation of the BHCPF programme after series of capacity assessments and verifications conducted by NPHCDA and its partners.

He therefore commended the board, management and staff of the ENS-PHCDA for their sacrifices and contributions towards the success of the verification and assessment exercises that led to the approvals received from NPHCDA, expressing optimism they would deploy the same level of dedication and hard work in the implementation of the programmes of the Fund.

In his address, the Executive Secretary of ENS-PHCDA, Dr. George Ugwu applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his unprecedented support to the agency, stating that “the target for this vaccination phase (mass vaccination campaign) is to get at least, 1,265,013 persons in Enugu State vaccinated by January 5th, 2022”.

Dr. Ugwu disclosed that the agency has already trained 1,942 vaccination personnel including vaccinators, e-recorders and validators, adding that “we have also inaugurated special teams of DSS and ICPC to ensure a vaccination card racketeering-free campaign”.

According to him, “We wish to leverage our good performance in the first and second phases of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout to deliver the vaccines to our eligible population. Enugu State currently leads in the Southeast and joins other few states that met all their set targets in COVID-19 vaccination rollout in the country.

“In phase 1, we vaccinated 65,703 persons with the Oxford Astrazeneca vaccine. In phase 2, we vaccinated 28,325 and 45,085 persons with Oxford astrazeneca and Moderna vaccines, respectively. In total, we have so far, vaccinated 139,113 persons out of which 50,161 are fully vaccinated with both Oxford Astrazeneca and Moderna vaccines.

“Riding on this track record, I implore the citizens and inhabitants of Enugu State to come out en masse to receive the COVID-19 vaccines which are free, safe and effective. We currently have the Oxford AstraZeneca, Moderna, and Pfizer Bionthech”.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Development Partners, WHO, UNICEF, NPHCDA, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for showing exemplary leadership and immense support which they said have manifested in the successful rollout and coverage of COVID-19 vaccination in Enugu State.

They stressed that the Enugu State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ENS-PHCDA) is so far leading in the entire South East in meeting the set targets in COVID-19 vaccination and expressed hope that the flagged off mass vaccination campaign will see Enugu State covering the expected target.

According to the UNICEF representative, Mrs. Maureen Okolo, “Enugu State has not allowed any of the vaccines to expire in her hands and has always consumed her assigned doses and even more. Kudos to the Executive Secretary and his team”

Other Participants at the event include Hon. Sam Ngene (House Committee Chairman on Health); State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Emmanuel Obi represented by the Director of Public Health, SMOH, Dr. Boniface Okolo; Hon. Alex Ugwu (Chairman of Enugu East LGA); Dr. T.C. Asogwa (ENS-PHCDA Board Chairman); Dr. Edith Okolo (Executive Secretary, ENS-AUHC); Sir Philip Ugwueze (NPHCDA State Coordinator); UNICEF Chief Field Officer, Ibrahim Conteh represented by UNICEF Nutrition Specialist Maureen Zubie Okolo; Dr. Ada Erinne (WHO State Coordinator), among others.

The Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority has indicated readiness to barricade the Government Reserved Area, GRA, starting from Park Avenue by Abakaliki road, within the state capital, from uses by heavy-duty vehicles.The development followed the frequent breakdown of trucks in the area and several petitions by residents of the area over the damage being caused by such heavy-duty vehicles.

An incident occurred recently when residents were alerted to vacate their homes following the fall of a fuel tanker, which attracted the mobilization to the incident arena of both the state Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the State Fire Service and other rapid response agencies.

Our reporter learnt that the incident made the Governor immediately approve the installation of the barrier with immediate effect. Residents of other parts of the state have in the same manner urged the ECTDA to save them from the menace of such heavy-duty vehicles.

The residents also complain of abuse of the city master plan which made the ECTDA demolish an ongoing property development along Nnaji street by Uduma at New Haven, where to the shock and dismay of everybody, natives sold a portion of the road to an unsuspecting property developer, claiming to have carried out a variation in the state ministry of Lands, thereby abusing the 1975 New East and west layout master plan.

Speaking on the development, Chairman of ECTDA, Denge. Josef Onoh said that “from January, we shall start intensive enforcement to sanitize Enugu once more.”

…Directs police, DPR, others to apprehend perpetrators

The Enugu State government has raised the alarm over the illegal circulation, distribution and sale of compromised Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) and other related products to unsuspecting residents of the state.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Steve Oruruo, the state government expressed dismay that “this dangerous substance surreptitiously marketed as genuine product to innocent residents has already inflicted devastating fatalities and produced gory sights of bodily injuries and horrific destruction of properties in Enugu State”.

Oruruo added that “the state government is concerned about this unfolding situation and to that effect has directed the Enugu State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and other related Government Agencies to swing into immediate action, investigate and arrest all the persons involved either directly or remotely in the illicit distribution or sale of this highly perilous product”.

The Special Adviser disclosed that the state government extended its unalloyed commiserations to the victims of the dastardly act and their loved ones and advised the general public to be profoundly wary of where they purchase Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) and other related products.

The government therefore enjoined residents of the state to “report any suspected peddlers of this illegal product to the security agencies” for immediate action.