PARENTING THE RIGHT WAY - Nelda Chioma Okafor

 Parenting is one herculean but rewarding jobs in the history of mankind. For good and effective parenting to be recorded, both parents MUST be intentional and commit to raising their God given children the right way. 

Many are oblivious of the fact that parenting starts the moment a child is conceived. it's at this stage or even before that parental goals are set. Couples get to decide the type of family they wish to raise. Responsible parents understand that they are a key instrument to how the society turns out as the society is populated by themselves and their children who later grow into adults that form part of the leadership of the larger society. Parenting is the holistic approach of nurturing and caring for a newborn to adulthood. This entails committing one's mental, physical, spiritual resources towards providing the basic needs of the childlike shelter, clothing, food to guiding them through the early stage of baby steps, word/sound formation ,learning to eat, praying, greeting etc. Children are great observers and learn faster this way. 

There is no truer saying that parents are their children's first teachers. The first things learned and exhibited by children are what they saw and learnt from their parents. Parents MUST therefore be wary of conducting themselves badly before their children. Good parents intending to raise good children must start early to inculcate great values in their children even before they start talking. Take for instance, parents of strong Christian background must ensure their children are taught to pray immediately they wake in the morning from night sleep then proceed to greet their parents and anyone else living in the house. Teach them simple courtesy of saying 'thank you' each time a favor is done to them. Most importantly, ensure they not only say "sorry", but express it each time they did wrong to anyone. These form part of their lives, shapes them to be grateful and humble while the absence of these in children only see them turn out as ungrateful and arrogant. Most importantly, parents must do all within their powers to be truthful to their children and teach never to tell lies no matter the circumstance. This builds trust and confidence and strengthens the bond that exists between children and their parents

. Parenting never stops, rather, strategies change as the children grow older. In my next article on parenting, I will dwell much on age appropriate strategies to good parenting.

INVEST AT HOME - Governor Okezie Tells Ndi Igbo

It is time for Ndigbo to invest at home-Governor Okezie Ikpeazu

Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, has called on Ndigbo to invest their resources and entrepreneurial skills in Igboland to ensure accelerated development of the South East and South South of Nigeria.

The Governor made the call today at the auditorium of the University of Lagos while delivering his remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at this year's Eni Njoku lecture organized by Igbo Students Union of the University in conjunction with Ndigbo in Lagos. Governor Okezie urged Ndigbo to apply their globally acknowledged spirit of entrepreneurship at home. According to him, rather than the Igbos waiting for some external investors, Igbo Investors can change the picture of Igboland just as they have change the faces of other World cities.

In a brief chat with newsmen after the event, the Governor who is also the Chairman of South East Governors forum committee on economic development highlighted the relationship between unemployment and crimes like kidnapping, baby factory as well as social vices like teenage pregnancy. According to him, some unemployed youths resort to crimes mostly because of absence of jobs to match their skills and that in turn scare Igbo investors from looking towards home. He assured Ndigbo living in Lagos and the Diaspora that the current Governors of the South East are working round the clock to provide adequate security and called on Igbo business men and women to support the efforts of the Governors at job creation through investing at home. "When you invest at home, you help us to take more people off the streets and prisons thereby further guaranteeing security of lives and property".

However, The President General of Ndigbo Lagos, Prof Anya O. Anya, in his address as the lead lecturer for this year's Eni Njoku lecture series called on President Muhammadu Buhari to use his enormous goodwill in the north and across the country to ensure that the report of the last National Conference is implemented. He stated that if implemented, the report of the last National Conference will smoothen the rough edges of our federation as well as accelerate national development.

Speaking on "the challenge of national development and national integration in the age of change and transformation" Prof Anya stated that the twin challenges of national integration and economic development can be surmounted if the current leadership in Nigeria summon the courage to implement the report of the last national conference as submitted to the Government of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

This year's Eni Njoku lecture attracted dignitaries from all walks of life including Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Prof Anya O. Anya, Prof Ibidapo Obe, Prof Mojekwu Nnamdi, Chief Nkechi Obi of Technoil, HRM Eze Kalu Kalu Ogbu (IV), Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, Dr Onyia, Chief Jackson Agbai, Dr O. J. Mbonu and many others.

Prof Eni Njoku, a renowned biological scientist, was the first Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos. He also served as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka. He was born at Ebem (1917) in Ohafia LGA of Abia State. His son, Dr Eni Njoku jnr as well as daughter Mrs O. Mbonu were also present at the event.

Eni Njoku studied botany at the University of Manchester in England. He graduated with a first class honours degree in 1947 and obtained his M.A. degree the following year. In 1954, he obtained his doctorate from the University of London.

PRESS RELEASE - IGBO GA ADI FOUNDATION BOOSTS IGBO LANGUAGE IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS - Nelda Chioma Okafor Nelda Chioma

For the first time in recorded history, Igbo language received a boost in Anambra state. Many things have been said about the language and few years ago, UNESCO and the Oxford University gave a resounding prophecy that if extra effort is not made, the Igbo language will go into extinction in less than two decades.

Many individuals and groups have shown remarkable interest and have gone on a showdown to revive and turn this prophecy down. Igbo Ga Adi, an offshoot of IFMA INITIATIVE, a nongovernmental organization (NGO) poised to preserve the Igbo language and identity, founded by Mr. Ikechukwu Okafor, the NGO took the giant step especially in the last three years using our children as the tool for reviving and recovery of the Igbo language and identity.

It should be noted that Okafor hosted Igbo Children in October 31st 2013 in Abuja and also hosted the International Day of the African Child in June 2013. In all these, he brought new concepts to make his efforts work. He introduced essay writing competition in indigenous language for students in secondary schools in Anambra state. The number of entries received ran in thousands as various schools from all zones, nooks and crannies of the state encouraged their students to be part of it. It also carried a surprising and mouthwatering package for Igbo teachers and their respective schools which baffled many. The essence was to help reward indigenous language teachers on earth and no longer in heaven. The first topic of the essay was on the importance of language to children and importance of language and culture to the development of Igbo land. Shortlists of 20 best written works were selected out of the thousand entries. Exactly on April 5 2014, which was not only the award ceremony day, but also a day for a sit-in-writing, where all the shortlisted students put up a fight for the mouthwatering prizes on the topics: Effect of road accident to children and reducing the menace of motor accident, the duty that calls, for junior and senior categories respectively. The sponsor of the program, Chief Osita Chidoka OFR (Ike Obosi), Corps Marshal and Chief Executive of Federal Road Safety Commission who doubled as the founder of Nkemefuna foundation was represented by Mr. Kenneth Nwaegbe, HPIO of the FRSC.
The sit-in-writing narrowed down the names of the best 20 students to 10, 5 from each category. These students mounted the podium one after another to read their written essay in the presence of dignitaries among whom were Professor Pita Ejiofor, former vice chancellor Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Hon. Commissioner for Local government and chieftaincy matters, Hon. Commissioner for education represented, Hon. Commissioner for Women Affairs & Social development represented, HRH Igwe Emmanuel Nnabuife of Isseke Kingdom, Dr. Chief Mike Ejiofor, Federal Permanent Secretary (rtd), Chairman Post Primary Schools Service Commission among others. They were all thrilled to see these students read in Igbo language and were made to agree that Igbo language would never die. It was time for the judges made up of Professors and experienced lecturers in Igbo language drawn from the University.

The 1st prize winner for the senior category, a student of St Charles College, Onitsha, Master Odiakosa Alfred won a cash prize of N100.000, Hundred thousand Naira, a laptop computer. A big deep freezer for the Igbo teacher. A brand new set of computer with Igbo key board for the school, Igbo books and notebooks for the library.
The 2nd prize winner, Master Okonkwo Benjamin also from St Charles College, Onitsha, won a cash prize of N65.000 Sixty five thousand Naira, a mini laptop computer. A medium size deep freezer for the Igbo teacher. A brand new set of computer with Igbo key board for the school, Igbo books and notebooks for the library.

The 3rd Prize winner Master Tojah Chidinka of Dennis Memorial Grammar School Onitsha carted away with cash prize of N50.000 fifty thousand Naira, set of books for the school a printer and cash of ten thousand Naira to the teacher.
In the junior category Miss Onyejesi Favor , of Anglican Girls Grammar School, Onitsha took home a prize of N60.000 sixty thousand Naira, a mini laptop. A deep freezer for the Igbo teacher. A brand new set of computer with Igbo key board for the school, Igbo books and notebooks for the library.
While Ikeh Calista , of Queen of Rosary College, Onitsha emerged the second position and took home N50.000 Fifty thousand Naira. A medium size deep freezer for the Igbo teacher. A brand new set of computer with Igbo key board for the school, Igbo books and notebooks for the library.
Miss Uzochukwu Adaeze of Bishop Okoye Memeorial Grammar School, Nnewi clinched the 3rd prize carting away N30.000 Thirty thousand Naira, Ten thousand Naira to the Igbo teacher, set Igbo books and notebooks for the library. The 4th and 5th winners in each category received eight and ten thousand Naira each while the other finalists of 10 received a cash prize of Five thousand Naira each. Schools present were satisfied with the development and expressed interest in the promotion of Igbo language to their individual students. The commissioner for education represented by Mrs Ewuzie in her remark praised the commitment of well-meaning efforts of many Igbo’s in reviving Igbo language and culture and submitted a promise of partnership which she believed the present government will be pleased to be part of, she applauded the initiative and commended the initiator of the annual competition Mr. Ikechukwu Okafor and the sponsor of the program Mr. Osita Chidoka saying that such noble initiative should be encouraged and sustained. A day like 5th of April 2014 will remain alive in the mind of many Igbo children in Anambra states for being rewarded for their efforts and interests in Igbo language and for the teachers, a new door of opportunity is opened for them to instill hard work on their students and to receive their reward while alive on earth. Mrs Azuka Enemo, Hon. Comm. For local government and Chieftaincy matters who spoke directly to Mr. Ikechukwu Okafor the host of the program applauded the concept of the program, the Honourable Commissioner said that rewarding the students and their teachers and schools will motivate and encourage teachers to put in more efforts in teaching of ingenious language. The Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Chief Mike Ejiofor in his speech commended the initiator of the program while stressing on the need for the program to be sustained to help improve the academic performance of Igbo children in indigenous language, Ejiofor also said that the program is one that the state government should encourage and support, he went on to commend the sponsor of the program 'such selfless and noble gesture is one to be emulated' he said.

Mr. Ikechukwu Okafor the initiator and host of the program who doubles as the Founder of the IFMA INITIATIVE (Igbo ga-adi) in his speech charged parents and teachers to wake up to the challenge facing ndigbo, he urged them to consider issues relating to the sustainability of the Igbo language and identity as a major priority, Okafor expressed sadness that over 65 percent of Igbos cannot read or write Igbo language, while over 90 percent cannot hold a 5 minutes conversation in Igbo language without adding English language, he said this is because the learning of indigenous language was never encouraged in schools in the past, he said that for the Igbo language and identity to be revived and sustained, ndigbo must be proud of being Igbo, proud of the Igbo language and culture. Okafor said he designed the annual competition in a way that it would make a huge and positive impact in the lives of the people of the state. It is sad and discouraging that most stakeholders in Igbo land hardly come forward to support, sponsor or encourage programs geared towards the good and future of Igbo race he said, while appreciating in a special way Chief Osita Chidoka OFR (Ike Obosi) for coming forward to express his love for the good and future of Igbo race by proudly sponsoring the program.

IGBOVILLE/OGANIRU NDIGBO OFFERS FREE MEDICAL SERVICE TO ABA RESIDENTS

By Emma Maduabuchi

The month of December is special for many people all over the world, because of the Christmas celebrations it brings. However in Nigeria, the month is unique for the Igbos of the Southeast geopolitical zone. It is usually a season that brings a lot of journeying and holidaying experience for the people.

It is a time when huge festivals, dancing and carnivals take centre stage in towns and villages; and eating, drinking, and all other manners of thrills; exchange of gifts and visits amongst individuals and groups are highly recorded.

As preparations build up, Daily Independent investigation showed that more vehicles and more goods are already heading towards the South East from other parts of the country. Many houses are wearing new looks, the markets are recording huge crowds, and expectations are high amongst the people.

In Aba, the commercial city of Abia State, expectations are also high as the people eagerly await the visit of some Igbo groups to the town. Among the groups being expected is Oganiru Ndigbo, with its Internet, Facebook arm – Igboville, which would be holding its retreat “Enyimba 2013 Retreat” in the Enyimba city.

A recent visit to the town revealed that the people are already in high spirit as they await the arrival of the collection of Nigerian professionals of Igbo extraction that constitute group for the meeting which promises to be grand. News making the rounds is that the group, whose membership includes experts in the medical profession, would be putting offering free medical services for the people of the town. It is a move most appreciated by a lot of people who have got wind of it.

Speaking to Daily Independent, some of the respondents were appreciative believing that it would help in a great way to cushion the effect of the current nationwide strike embarked by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA). An Aba resident, Chukwuma Uka, who is a shoemaker by trade, while confirming that members of the group visited his shop at Ariara Market, to sensitise them on what to expect, disclosed that they were bringing medical festival to the city.

Some members of the Retreat Committee revealed that Oganiru Ndigbo, were on a mission of organising 15 medical services personnel, who are specialists in different fields of medicine for the event.

Chin Akano
Chin Akano
Led by United Kingdom based medical doctor, Chin Akano, the medical personnel from Nigeria and the Diaspora (all of Igbo origin) will participate in the fiesta during which they will offer free medical consultancy as well as prescribe and issue free drugs, optical frames, dental health support services, free diagnosis, blood pressure checks, and several other medical services to the people.

Chairman of the group’s Planning Committee, John Okiyi Kalu, said the intention was to hugely give back to the community that will host them during their December retreat in the town, especially those of them, who have been at the receiving end both social and economic engagements of the well-to-do, and could not afford such medical attention and facilities as would be provided.

He however said the medical team would refer patients with surgical cases or requiring long term care to the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) at Aba, with generous support from the medical mission team. Members of the medical team further told Daily Independent that they would donate materials to ABSUTH at the end of the mission scheduled to hold on December 28, 2013 at Luxury City Hotel Aba. He used the opportunity to invite all residents of Aba to come out and take advantage of the program.

Okoyi said the medical mission “is part of activities lined up by the number one online Igbo group made up of thousands of Igbo professionals from across the globe for their annual retreat tagged Enyimba 2013”.

In an interview with Daily Independent, Akano, the head of the medical team, said that everyone in the locality was invited, adding that his team had the capacity to handle every medical challenge the people would bring.

His words: “Any patient in the locality is free to come. We are not going to drive anyone away. We have nurses who will speak with them first to find out what problems they have. If the problem is within the scope of the mission we deal with it. But then if it is not, we are going to give them advice and refer them where to go”.

The theme of this year’s Retreat is “The Igbo Family” and will feature presentations by selected Igbo sons and daughters including a special “Ime Obi” presentation by Colonel Ben Gbulie. On the other hand, the key note address entitled “Family Business in Igbo Land: A Case for Modernisation” would be presented by renowned banker, strategist and multiple award winner, Prof Herbert Orji. Other speakers include eminent Igbo historian, Prof Catherine Acholonu, Chief (Barr) Maxi Okwu of APGA, International Media Consultant Mazi Kelechi Deca, Emma Maduabuchi of Daily Independent Newspapers, Prof Mkpa Agu Mkpa, Secretary to Abia State Government, Mrs. Mary Ikokwu of “Working Mum” fame as well as Prof Kalu Uche.

This year’s Retreat, the Enyimba Retreat, is expected to culminate in a courtesy visit to His Excellency, Executive Governor of Abia State, Ochendo TA Orji, where members will formally present the retreat communiqué to him as well as interact with him and key members of his government.

According to Okiyi, Oganiru Ndigbo/Igboville were established to strategise and work for ways of improving Ndigbo and there way of life. Igboville, a major online Igbo group is a non governmental organisation (NGO) and not for profit organisation (NFPO) made up of thousands of Igbo professionals whose interest is to make Igbo progress socially, technology, financially and otherwise.

Oganiru Ndigbo on the other hand is the physical aspect of Igboville through which members of the group impact physically on the needs of the people, and it has been doing just that.

It is to be recalled that Igboville members had during the early days of Boko Haram terrorist activities, offered free buses to evacuate Igbos resident in the North. At that time also, members of the group in the United Kingdom organised a protest march to the British Parliament and 10 Downing Street, demanding an end to the genocide against their Ndigbo people. Added to that, they also demanded an immediate end to all forms of bloodletting in the country, in which any specific ethnic or religious group in the country is the target.

The group was also involved in the sending of relief materials to Anambra flood victims and have always intervened in helping Igbos in distress at various times and in various places. It is currently planning international scholarship for the two Imo whiz kids who made and successfully launched a rocket in Imo State recently.

The group is self-funded and has no political affiliation. It seeks to protect Igbo interests and support the leaders of Igbo land to deliver best value to Ndigbo to enable them compete well in Nigeria, and in the Global environment. Its members also actively review national and international events and offer suggestions and policy alternatives to Igbo leaders at all levels. It is affiliated to Ohaneze Ndigbo and also gives support to other Igbo groups and organisations.

Responding to questions on the formation of the group, the founder, Emeka Maduewesi said what they had in mind was to replicate the wonderful works Igbo Union did for Ndigbo before and after the country’s independence. He gave an example with the building of Igbo Union Schools in Northern when it became difficult for children of Ndigbo to enter secondary schools in the Northern parts of the country. “What we tried to do is to replicate what the Igbo State Union did for Ndigbo in the 1950s and 1960s and even during the war” he said.

Maduewesi said the two previous retreats held at Afikpo and Nnewi respectively provided a unique opportunity for Igbos of different age strata to come together under one umbrella and talk on issues concerning and affecting them. “Its unlike what we use to see with Ohaneze meetings where you have elderly people, it is not like youth club. But a meeting of every professional; every strata of age grade in Igbo land was represented. It has never happened before for young people and old people to have the mindset of uniting Ndigbo,” he noted.

Maduewesi further expressed strong believe that the group was in the right track as it was trying to bring Ndigbo together, make them study their history, and to fashion out their future. “You must take your future in your hand and conquer it. If you don’t conquer your future, you continue to live in fear” he concluded.

H.E'S OFFICIAL ADDRESS TO ABIANS ON NIGERIA'S 53RD ANNIVERSARY.

AS NIGERIA MARKS ITS 53RD INDEPENDENCE TODAY, THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF ABIA STATE, IN THE PERSON OF HIS EXCELLENCY, CHIEF DR THEODORE ORJI, NOT ONLY ADDRESSES ABIANS, BUT FULLY PARTICIPATED IN THE PARADE AS SEEN IN THE PICTURE BELOW.

HERE IS HIS OFFICIAL ADDRESS ON THIS OCCASSION:

AN ADDRESS PRESENTED BY HIS EXCELLENCY CHIEF T. A. ORJI (OCHENDO), GOVERNOR ABIA STATE, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 53RD ANNIVERSARY CLEBRATION OF NIGERIA’S INDEPENDENCE, HOLDING AT THE UMUAHIA TOWNSHIP STADIUM, ON THE 1ST DAY OF OCTOBER, 2013

PROTOCOLS DISTINGUISHED LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!

It is my pleasure to address you today as we celebrate the 53rd anniversary of our Nation’s Independence. This is yet another annual opportunity to remember, renew of our faith in our Nation, and appraise our nationhood.

This year’s celebration offers a unique opportunity to share and appraise our collective journey towards improving the lives of our citizens, as our Nation pursues a more robust democracy capable of providing sustainable security and progress towards a more inclusive development of our people.

Our journey towards a viable nationhood in the past 53 years of Nigeria Independence remains a story of courage, tenacity, and commitment as our leaders search appropriate ways of advancing the interests of our diverse people within a united Nation. Thank God that we have endured despite our often conflicting individual and collective aspirations, and we will continue to endure!

Over the years, it has become more evident that ‘you’ – the entire people of Nigeria and our State, have been the only sure preservation for our unity, our democracy, our liberty, our security and our development as a State and as a Nation. I commend all our citizens for keeping faith with Nigeria and for remaining tenacious with our leaders, despite all odds.

There is no way our State and this Nation can continue to go forward expect we are united as a people; and there is no way any State and our Nation can develop except by serving the urgent needs of our citizens. This is the promise the Federal Government has made to the Nation, and the commitment our Government has made to the Good people of Abia State. We will surely keep these promises and excel!

Today’s celebration of our independence anniversary reminds us and all Nigerians that we cannot stand still or slip further backwards in developing our people and our economies. We cannot stand still in preserving the peaceful environment of our State, and we cannot stand still in deepening our democracy to serve the interests of our citizens at all levels. But we can do all these and yet go forward standing as a united people under one Nation and one Federation of shared values.

As we all celebrate today let us keep faith with Nigeria and rejoice that this Nation and this State have been growing, even as the challenges of resources still fail to meet all expectations. Yet our achievements can also be measured in the sincerity, devotion, accountability and the selfless leadership we continue to bring to our democratic process.

Our leaders at all levels, especially in Abia State, are assuming greater responsibility as change agents and laying the foundation for the sustainable development of our people. We will continue to pursue this route.

We are through our legacy projects in the State, seeking to build a sustainable economic foundation for our people, especially in providing for the best affordable health care in all areas and with a world class health institutions and diagnostic centers in Umuahia and Aba that can sustain the test of time and demands.

We are upgrading our judicial infrastructures and institutions in all areas to improve the delivery equitable justice. We have created access to new employments by building new markets to serve the commercial interests and needs of our people, especially in Aba, Umuahia. We are refurbishing our Educational Institutions, improving teaching and excellence and building a knowledge-based industry and tourism in our State.
We are creating self employment for our citizens, especially the youths – through empowerment with working tools, equipments and vehicles to ply new trades, and creation of massive employments in our privatized Palm and Rubber plantations at Abam and Ukwa-East.

We are creating young entrepreneur farmers in all LGAs of our State through our Liberation Farms, and new rural wealth through our refocus on agriculture as the mainstay of our State economy; and we will continue to pursue the expansion and servicing of our urban and rural roads and other infrastructures.

To consolidate these efforts, I call on all Abians to come on board and support our Government, so that our legacy foundations in Abia State will be made stronger, faster and intensive for the realization of our collective dreams of a better Abia State.

Also, as we celebrate this year’s independence anniversary, I call on our citizens to begin to re-evaluate your potentials and re-engage in our State and Nation building. We must move away from the anachronistic belief that Governments alone can do everything to develop the people, the State and the Nation. Our Government remains ready to partner with individuals and groups willing to devote their knowledge, resources and expertise to develop our State.

That is why we are now partnering with some reputable organized private concerns to build a new Aba International Industrial City (ABIIC) at Osisioma near Aba. When completed within 2014-15, this Mega City will relieve other Aba markets, and will be the host of cluster industries with modern equipments and machineries located within a conducive and business friendly environment that support healthy living and industrial activities.

It is our hope that through this new project, we will be able to recapture the fame of ‘Aba made goods’ and the ingenuity of the Aba entrepreneurs. Our goal is to re-make Aba as the true ‘Japan of Africa’ and the commercial hob of the South Eastern region and the entire Nation.

We are also giving support to Geometric Power Plant through assistance in road infrastructure; and to the other NIPP projects in Alaoji, so that their pursuits of a constant and reliable 24 hours supply of electricity will become a reality in Abia State, and especially in Aba, before Nigeria celebrates her next independence anniversary. This will accelerate the pace of commerce and development in Aba and entire Abia State.

I continue to see huge potentials and capacities in our people in direct engagement in the building of a growing, enduring, and a stable economy for the benefit of our citizens. Our Government will continue to support and partner with all those who dare to rise to be counted as champions of our State development.

For them and for every citizen, we will continue to invest heavily in the sustenance of our security and the protection of lives and property of citizens, so that all forms of criminal violence, especially kidnapping will be completely eliminated in Abia State, and our environment made more conducive for local and external investments.

Our Government will continue to build and maintain the cleanliness of our cities, especially Aba. We will address more consistently, our lingering infrastructural deficits, especially in Urban and rural roads; and we will work towards completing our legacy projects in the pipelines. However, I need to remind our citizens of the need to pay your taxes to enable Governments finance our many projects to serve you better.

I am ever confident that Abians will uphold their inviolable contract of fiscal commitment which binds Governments and citizens, especially in a democratic setting, and live up to their tax paying responsibilities. On our Government’s part, we pledge to remain prudent, responsible and accountable in the management of our collective resources.

Fellow citizens of Abia State, even as we celebrate our independence anniversary today, I need to re-assure you that our democracy, our State and our Nation will continue to endure in-spite of our growing teething problems, our inevitable internal conflicts and the many disagreements we sometimes face in our Party politics.

As we continue to endure and move towards the centennial anniversary of our Nation, we need to accept the fact that democracy itself – by giving voices to the voiceless, tend to create its own conflicts. But these conflicts must be addressed in the spirits and values of democracy. We must accept the caution that there is no alternative to the collective unity of our people under one Nation, just as we all continue to seek genuine resolves to addressing existing areas of imperfections in our political system, and do so with justice and fairness.

I therefore call on all Abians to continue to support our Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria under our able President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR for all the efforts everyone is making to preserve the unity of Nigeria in a prosperous environment, devoid of rancor and violence. Together, I am sure that we will reap the fruits of Mr President’s committed transformation agenda for Nigeria, even in the not too distant coming years and anniversaries.

Our Government of Abia State will remain an active player in the search for solutions to the many challenges that today face our State and the Nation, especially in the areas of deepening our democracy, advancing the development of our economies and people in all vital areas, and providing for a sustainable ‘human security’ of our citizens.

I therefore, advise our politicians and citizens to endeavor to promote peaceful conducts at all times, as we all seek to pursue our democratic rights and aspirations even under different banners.

But more especially, as we celebrate this year’s independence anniversary, I call on all Abians to continue to uphold and promote the ideals of distinction and uniqueness which formed the bedrock on which the State of Abia was founded by our fathers, and which is now very essential for a new Nigeria to emerge.

Let us all join hands with our Government and the Federal Government to transform this State and our Nation to match those dreams. We must do so by supporting hard work, honesty, ingenuity, fairness, justice, the promotion of excellence and rule of law under democratic values.

Let us approach the next independence anniversary with hope, harmony, mutual respect to each other and commitments to peaceful existence with other citizens – which are all imperative to sustainable development of our resources and our Nation.

Let us also renew our resolve to making the required sacrifices, bearing the necessary pains if need be, and making our individual contributions in the laying of the foundation for a greater Abia State. Let us support and sustain for the future, the Legacy projects of the Government and its commitments to the new Abia State and for the future of our new generations. Let us support the peaceful transformation of Nigeria under equal and shared coexistence of our diverse people, while we continue to pray that justice reigns through-out our land.

These ways alone, we can enrich and give better meaning to future celebration of the independence anniversaries of our Nation according to our dreams and our hopes.

Thank you and God bless the Good People of Abia State!
God bless the Federal the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Happy Independence Nigeria

T.A.O

WORKING MOMS PRESS RELEASE - Nelda Chioma Okafor

Working Moms Magazine – an intellectual work piece and companion of today’s woman is out on the news stand, this time with added features you dare not miss.
This edition features exclusive interview on challenges and benefits of cross-cultural marriages as x-rayed by our cover page celebrity, Tanzanian ex-Big Brother Housemate, Elizabeth Gupta Chuwang Pam now Nigerian by marriage. Find the insightful, entertaining and educating interview on page 34.
Those still skeptical of motherhood should read our international model, Oluchi Onwuagba Orlandi’s take and experience on motherhood. As you flip through page 14, I bet you, your mindset MUST change towards motherhood.
Do you agree that time is money? Let’s see how well you’ve managed and made your money on page 18.
Do you know that truly, some men feel threatened by their wives’ success? Learn how to successfully handle and cope with this on page 28.
Join our in-house doctors on page 53 for your health needs even as Dr. Chin Akano lets us in on dangers of alcohol consumption in pregnancy.
What attitude do you tackle life’s challenges with? Hmmm……. Speechless is the word on Nelda’s page 44 true life inspirational story.
BB addiction is indeed everywhere. Page 49 features confessions of working moms members’ bb addiction experiences.
What have I just done? No way! You can’t have it all here, rush for your copy to read the amazing Relationship Corner, Fashion tips, Mom Fiction etc.
Welcome on board!

IGBO BLOOD AGAIN???..................

Press Release!!!
Oganiru Ndigbo Foundation (ONF)

THE LUST FOR MORE IGBO BLOOD; SAME OLD SONG

The Oganiru Ndigbo Foundation (ONF) an umbrella organization of progressive Igbo men and women from all walks of life both at home and in the Diaspora notes with dismay the wanton lust for Igbo blood which has become the signature of the Nigerian State in the last four decades. Most especially we have noted the frantic efforts by the Boko Haram insurgents and other organization hiding under similar claims to unleash terror on mostly innocent Igbos at every little opportunity.

We state that what took place at the New Road, Sabon Gari, Kano, the Kano State capital on Monday is to say the least unwarranted, quite disgusting, but nonetheless not surprising to us as it is in line with similar patterns in the recent past to attack Igbo interests in different parts of the federation under the guise of fighting a phony religious war.

While the Oganiru Ndigbo Foundation takes exception to this development and calls on the Federal Government to be alert to its duty of protecting the lives and property of every citizen of this country, we warn that failure to stop this orchestrated attacks on Ndigbo will most likely lead this country to a land of no return.



We also express our disappointment at the lame response from the Office of the President that ‘’the Federal Government will not be stampeded, for any reason whatsoever, into abandoning its unrelenting war against terrorists in the country’’. We want to see visible evidence of that unrelenting war. More so, we want the government to move beyond mere rhetoric in its unusual assurance that the ‘Nigerian Government will continue to do all that is required to ensure the safety of lives and property, including continued collaboration with local and international partners and stakeholders to check the menace of terrorism’’.

But most shocking is the muteness of Igbo leaders from those at the National Assembly to the State Governors who waited until others have condemned the act before making comments. This level of political correctness which has been the lot of Igbo leaders is quite condemnable in the face of this recurrent desire by elements of Islamic fundamentalism to continue maiming and wasting Igbo lives. So shocking is the fact that members of the South East Caucus of the House of Representatives were quiet while Hon. Ibrahim Olaifa (Accord Party/Oyo) was the one who sponsored a motion on the need to end the activities of terrorist groups in Nigeria was adopted for a resolution.

Senator Ike Ekweremadu’s belated call on security agencies to fish out culprits of the crime and that those behind these wicked acts should come to repentance, embrace dialogue, patriotism and respect for human life as prescribed by our laws, cultures and religious faith is to say the least a repetition we are tired of hearing.

We warn that this disregard for lives and most especially the attacks on Igbos across the northern part of this country should be stopped henceforth. We are making every effort to restrain our youths from retaliatory acts as we know such will have a negative impact on an already bad situation. However, our restraining powers will not be there forever, as we too are human. Government should act, and act decisively by employing whatever means necessary to bring these criminals to book and take steps to make this country safe again.

LONG LIVE NDIGBO!!!
FOR AND ON BEHALF OF OGANIRU NDIGBO FOUNDATION

Architect LUCAS UCHE ONUH
President General

Dr.GAIUS ONUH NDUKWE
Secretary General

Barrister EMEKA MADUEWESI
Leader

TOUCH NOT IHEJIRIKA - IGBOS WARN GEJ, OTHERS

It has come to our notice that there is a campaign by some unscrupulous and unpatriotic elements whose intentions appear to be bent on destabilizing the Nigerian military and nation at large. This campaign is being propagated in the form of a spurious article being circulated that alleges that the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Onyeabor Azubuike Ihejirika is on some sort of sinister and clandestine operation to “Igbonise” the Nigerian Army. The COAS has been accused of selectively promoting only Igbos at the expense of others. Well, nothing can be further from the truth, and this will be demonstrated in a very clear and dispassionate analysis in rebuttal to the openly biased and ethnically tinged attempt by some disgruntled elements.
What this hatchet job of an article has done is to selectively focus on the promotion of four officers, and then proceed to make bold claims that these promotions were ethnically motivated because the said officers were of Igbo origin, and then conjure up a justification of why their promotions were ethnically motivated by employing a lot of hyperbole and incredulous reach in drawing conclusions from far-fetched inferences. The elements behind this very dishonest article have done this while ignoring the holistic picture of all promotions within the different cadres of the army. They focused on the promotions of Brigadiers Ugwu of the Ordinance Corps, Nwaogbo of the armored corps, Agha Okoro of the Supply and Transport Corps, and Chioba of the Corp of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers only. How can this be a complete picture when 43 Brigadiers where promoted Major Generals in 2011 and 22 promoted in 2012?
Now let’s examine the promotion exercise of 2011 based on available information:
On November 10 2011 the Vanguard published the following story on Army promotions:

The Nigerian Army Council has approved the promotion of 25 major- generals and 43 brigadier-generals, the largest number ever promoted at a go.
Following the recommendation of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Azubuike Ihejirika, those elevated from Brigadier Generals (one star) to Major-Generals (two stars) are Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General R.I.D Isa; Director of Military Intelligence, Brigadier-General A.T. Jibrin; Director of Operations at Army HQ, Brigadier General G.A. Wahab and Defence Adviser, New York, Brigadier General G. Audu.
Others promoted Major Generals are Brig-Gen. K.C. Osuji, Brig-Gen. F.S. Owonibi, Brig-Gen. Agha-Okoro, Brig-Gen. D.D. Kitchner, Brig-Gen. B.T. Oginni, Brig-Gen. E.R. Chioba, Brig-Gen. J.M. Ogidi, Brig-Gen. S.U. Labaran, Brig-Gen. A.A. Martins, Brig-Gen. A. Chukwu, Brig-Gen. M. Idris, Brig-Gen. L.N.K. Banjiran, Brig-Gen. S.U. Audu and Brig-Gen. E.F. Abejirin.
Also promoted two star-generals are Brig-Gen. T.O. Umar, Brig-Gen. H.G. Aminu, Brig-Gen. I. Sani, Brig-Gen. A.G. Ewanshia-Oloni and Brig-Gen. P.K. Ikumonein.
A statement confirming the promotions was signed by the Chief of Staff, Army Public Relations Department, Col. Usman Abdul.
Among the Colonels promoted to the rank of Brigadier-Generals are Colonel Leo Erabor, PSO to the Chief of Army Staff, Col. O.O. Adeleke, Col. J. Alexander, Col. T.K. Golau, Col. M.M. Dan-Ali, Col. L.O. Adeosun, Col. E.A. Ransome-Kuti, Col. J.T. Abubakar and Col. S.E.U. Ekanem.

WIDOWS PARTY

It was all tears of joy as widows from all Local Governments in Abia State gathered in Chief Dr. Cosmos Ndukwe's Amokwe Item native home to celebrate what has become an annual ritual termed "THE WIDOWS PARTY".

Abia Post in its facebook page published the advert requesting anyone with access to any widow in any part of Abia State to bring forth such a person to participate in the fun-filled affair. Surprisingly to Abia Post, this happened to be the 11th year of the "widows party.

It was an emotion filled event as widows numbering five hundred plus (500+) within the age bracket of 65-80+ prayed fervently for the goodwill of Chief Dr. Cosmos Ndukwe whose humility and large heart turned their lives around for the better. The event started at exactly 7:00am, December 30, 2012. The widows left happily after receiving their token which included but not limited to bags of rice, tin tomatoes, wrappa, Indomie, Cabin biscuits, upkeep money etc.

Some of the widows interviewed said Dr. Cosmos Ndukwe and his amiable and kind hearted wife, Mrs. Ndidi Cosmos Ndukwe assisted not only them, but equally empowered some of the youths in Abia while those excelling academically are under one form of scholarship or another.

A particular widow amidst tears narrated how Dr. Cosmos has impacted in the life of her family positively. She recalled how her physically challenged son was equipped with wheel chair to ease his mobility challenges. She prayed God to keep him and provide him with every resources he will ever need in life.

Abia Post couldn't help but share this good news with the public and call on all well meaning Abia and Nigerians at large to imbibe this selfless and humane act to improving humanity in general.

Just like the widows instructed us, "CHIEF DR. & MRS COSMOS NDUKWE, MAY YOUR GOODWILL & HUMILITY OPEN DOORS OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOU AND MAY YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY AND GENERATION BE REMEMBERED FOR GOOD, AMEN"