IMO STATE GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA ADDRESSES CRITICS EXPLAINS FREQUENT ABUJA VISITS

IMO STATE GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA ADDRESSES CRITICS EXPLAINS FREQUENT ABUJA VISITS.

  By Michelle Jessie 

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has responded to critics who question his frequent visits to Abuja, stating that these trips are in the best interest of the state. Uzodimma's response came during the first anniversary thanksgiving service of his second term in office at Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri.

The Governor was reacting to remarks made by Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace Most Revd Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, who advised Uzodimma to spend more time in the state. However, Uzodinma explained that as the Chairman of the APC Governor's Forum and the South-East Governors forum, he must maintain a strong presence at the national level to ensure Imo State receives maximum benefits from the Federal Government.

Uzodimma's Abuja Visits Yield Results*

Uzodinma emphasized that his frequent trips to Abuja have not hindered his administration's achievements, citing the payment of workers' salaries, the ongoing war against insecurity, and numerous projects across the state as examples. His Senior Special Assistant on Electronic and Creative Media, Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, also defended the Governor's actions, stating that his presence in Abuja has attracted significant federal government interventions to the state.

Some of the notable projects mentioned include:

Conversion of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education to a Federal University of Education*

Elevation of the Federal Medical Centre to a Federal University Teaching Hospital*

Reconstruction of Owerri-Port Harcourt and Owerri-Aba Roads

The Governor's Senior Special Assistant on Electronic and Creative Media, Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, also defended Uzodimma's Abuja visits, stating that they have attracted significant federal government interventions to the state.      Nwaogwugwu argued that the results speak for themselves, as Imo State has witnessed unprecedented federal presence under Uzodimma's administration

OGANIHU OWERRI PROVINCIAL ASSOCIATION (OOPA) BOOSTS EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN OLD OWERRI PROVINCE

OGANIHU OWERRI PROVINCIAL ASSOCIATION (OOPA) BOOSTS EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN OLD OWERRI PROVINCE

   By Ella Michaels 

The Oganihu Owerri Provincial Association of Chicago and environs, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, USA, has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing educational development in Owerri Zone. Established in 1985, OOPA proudly stands as one of the oldest Nigerian Associations in the USA, demonstrating its enduring dedication to promoting Owerri culture, tradition, and language through various activities.

Under the outgoing President, Mr. Sylvester O. Mba, who has led the Association for ten years, the Association has spear-headed many educational programs. In 2023, the Association provided educational assistance to 168 students in the amount of ₦100,000 to each deserving student. Last year, the Association spent over ₦18.9 million Naira on palliatives for the less privileged indigenes. To ensure transparency and accountability, the beneficiaries were verified at the FCMB at Owerri where the funds were distributed.

As a staunch advocate for NdeIgbo causes, OOPA continues to promote the welfare and interests of Igbo people in the diaspora and Nigeria. The Association's commitment to educational development is a testament to its dedication to empowering the youths and fostering a brighter future for the Owerri Zone.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE: The Association continues to look for ways to empower the youths through educational innovations, with the hope of reducing social vices and crimes among the youths, said the outgoing President, Mr. Sylvester O. Mba. A new leadership team headed by Hon. George Echemuna as the President takes over the running of the Association in January 2025. Hon. George Echemuna and his team are looking forward to continuing the exemplary initiatives set by the outgoing administration.

Honouring Excellence: FUTO's Honorary Doctorate Degrees Confirm Oluremi Tinubu and Hope Uzodimma as Apostles of Good Governance*

*Honouring Excellence: FUTO's Honorary Doctorate Degrees Confirm Oluremi Tinubu and Hope Uzodimma as Apostles of Good Governance*

     By Melissa Jessie 

The Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), has conferred honorary doctorate degrees in management on two prominent Nigerian leaders: Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma. This prestigious honour is a testament to their unwavering commitment to good governance and human resources development.

Under the leadership of Prof Mrs Nnenna Otti, FUTO has established itself as a beacon of moral rectitude, public service, and defence of the state, nation, and society. The university's decision to confer these honorary degrees is a resounding endorsement of the duo's tireless efforts to promote excellence in governance and development.

Senator Tinubu's initiatives in education, healthcare, and women's empowerment have been particularly noteworthy. Similarly, Governor Uzodimma's efforts to promote good governance and development in Imo State have been commendable. The conferment of these honorary degrees is a clear indication that the duo were "divinely prepared, circumstantially chosen and duly propelled to render Special Service to Nigeria at this point in time."

*FUTO Convocation Ceremony*

The 36th convocation ceremony of FUTO was a grand affair, with the conferment of an honorary Doctorate Degree on Governor Hope Uzodimma being the highlight of the event. The occasion saw the active participation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by the Imo State Party Chairman, Hon. MacDonald Ebere, PhD.

In his address, Dr. Ebere expressed deep pride in the Governor's achievements and commended FUTO for recognizing Senator Uzodimma's impactful leadership. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and academia in fostering technological advancement and societal development.

*A Testament to Excellence and Integrity*

This recognition by FUTO is a testament to the power of excellence and integrity in leadership. As the university continues to uphold the highest standards of academic excellence, it is clear that Senators Oluremi Tinubu and Hope Uzodimma are true apostles of good governance, and their contributions to Nigeria's development will be remembered for generations to come.

CORRUPTION FOILED: Imo NUJ Press Centre Saved From Illegal Sale*

*CORRUPTION FOILED: Imo NUJ Press Centre Saved From Illegal Sale*

   By    Melissa Jessie 

In a groundbreaking ruling, Honourable Justice Ann Ononeze-Madu has nullified the purported sale of the Imo State Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, marking a significant victory for truth, fairness, and accountability. This landmark decision has been hailed as a triumph of honesty and justice, sending a strong message against criminality in public service.

Ben Osuagwu, a former Chairman of the Imo State NUJ, described the judgment as a monumental victory, condemning the actions of individuals who attempted to unlawfully sell the Union's property under the guise of authority. "This judgment is a condemnation of the highest order of criminality by some who, instead of serving, used their positions to deceive," Osuagwu said.

The Press Centre holds historical significance, thanks to the efforts of past leaders like Late Commodore Amadi Ikwechegh, former Deputy Governor Sir Frank Orji, and others who ensured the NUJ Secretariat stood as a symbol of pride for journalism in Imo State. Osuagwu expressed relief that the judgment preserved the legacy of these leaders, noting that individuals like Senator Chris Anyanwu would have been dismayed had the sale succeeded.

Osuagwu urged Governor Hope Uzodinma to respect the judgment and prevent unscrupulous individuals from tarnishing his administration. Drawing a comparison to Pontius Pilate, he appealed to the Governor to safeguard the NUJ's legacy and prevent further attempts to damage his reputation. "Generations born and yet unborn will remember this judgment. I appeal to Governor Uzodinma to stand firm and not allow hirelings to misuse his administration for their personal gain."

Commending Imo journalists for their resilience during the court proceedings, Osuagwu lauded their steadfastness in protecting the Union's property. He also thanked all Imo leaders who voiced their opposition to the sale. On a personal note, Osuagwu concluded, "The judgment is not just a victory for NUJ but also a personal gift to me as I mark my Wedding Anniversary."

This ruling is a significant victory for the journalists' union, ensuring that their property is protected and their rights are upheld. It serves as a reminder that no individual or group can act with impunity, and that the rights of others will be protected. As Osuagwu aptly put it, "This judgment will be remembered for generations to come."