New Year: Sen. Kalu Preaches Patriotism, Warns Political Class Against Hate Utterances

December 31, 2021

As the world ushers in the New Year, former Governor of Abia State and Chief Whip of the Senate, Dr. Orji Kalu has urged Nigerians to be steadfast, patriotic and optimistic.

Kalu while applauding the citizenry for their continued support for President Muhammadu Buhari, cautioned the political class against inflammatory utterances capable of polarising the country.

The former Governor stressed that leaders at all levels of government must ensure the welfare of the people is a top priority in their agenda, adding that the government and the governed must play complementing roles in building a prosperous, united and indivisible Nigeria.

Kalu, who made these remarks in his Igbere country home, during the distribution of end of year gifts to his constituents as part of his annual end of year activities, called on well meaning Nigerians to embrace philanthropy.

He said, ” as we approach the new year, it is imperative to reflect on our achievements and challenges as individuals and as a nation.

“No doubt, 2021 was a year of sober reflection and celebrations.

“For the country to attain enviable heights, we must shun acts that will set the country divide the country.

” The time is now for Nigerians regardless of political, ethnic and religious differences to sustain peace and harmony in a bid to build a just society.

“No country can thrive in an atmosphere of disharmony.

” Nigeria’s cultural, ethnic and religious diversity must be harnessed for growth and progress of the country.

“We must not allow political or religious sentiments to take Nigeria backward.

” Let us engage people in government in constructive criticisms as against hate speech and campaign of calumny.

“In the new year, we must imbibe good moral conduct in our daily pursuits for the sake of peace and unity” .

The former Governor wished Nigerians a prosperous new year.

“You Are A Pacesetter, Jinx Breaker” — CMD FMC Umuahia, Prof. Onyebuchi Lauds Rep. Onuigbo

ABN TV EDITOR

December 31, 2021

The Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Professor Azubuike Onyebuchi has described the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, Rep. Sam Onuigbo as a jinx breaker and a pacesetter in representation.

Professor Onyebuchi was speaking on December 28, 2021, at his country home, when Rep. Onuigbo visited to celebrate and congratulate him and his family on his milestone life and career achievements.

Professor Onyebuchi who stated that his celebration would not have been complete without the visit of the federal lawmaker, thanked Onuigbo for coming, and encouraged him to continue with his unique and people-impacting style of representation.

Responding, Rep. Onuigbo expressed his joy and happiness in being part of Prof. Onyebuchi’s celebrations and stated that those achievements were earned and not bought. The lawmaker affirmed his commitment to always support Professor Onyebuchi and the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, however, he can.

Constituency Empowerment: Sen. Kalu Distributes 800 Motorcycles, 500 Sewing Machines, Others In Bende (Photos)

ABN TV EDITOR

December 31, 2021

Kenneth Udeh, Abia

Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu on Friday distributed no fewer than 800 motorcycles, 500 sewing machines, and other empowerment items to the people of Bende local government area in Abia North constituency.

This is in continuation of his efforts to empower the people of the constituency for self-reliance and enhanced economic opportunities.

Among the beneficiaries of the items include leaders of the All Progressive’s Congress and leaders of the OUK movement group.

The 13 wards in Bende local government area benefitted from the items distributed which seeks to support the various vacations of the people.

The benefiting wards include; Igbere A, Igbere B, Alayi, Item A, Item B, Item C, Ugwueke/Ezeukwu, Umuhu, Ozuitem, Bende, Nkpaumuimenyi, Uzuakoli and Itumbuzo.

Recall, that few months ago Orji Kalu commenced the distribution of empowerment materials to his constituents in addition to other numerous infrastructure which he facilitated as part of the fulfillment of his campaign promises.

During the previous exercise, Kalu had distributed a set of 350 motorcycles, 200 sewing machines, and other empowerment kits to Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia North senatorial district. That was followed by distribution of another set of 400 motorcycles and 150 generators to his constituents in Umunneochi Local Government Area.

Addressing the joyful beneficiaries who converged at his camp Neya Igbere country home, Kalu stated that the empowerment programme was in line with, and in continuation of his gesture in Umunneochi and Isuikwuto local councils.

He maintained that the exercise formed part of his agenda to uplift the living conditions of the people through the provision of items that will enhance the various vocations in which the people are engaged in.

He pointed out that the two remaining local governments in Abia North (Ohafia and Arochukwu) will adequately receive their own materials in due time.

The senator noted that such motivations would increase employment, improve productivity and reduce crime rate in the communities.

Expressing her Joy, one of the beneficiaries Mrs.Ifekwe Chike Ogwumba the woman leader Igbere ward B commended Kalu for the gesture, describing him as God’s sent. While commending him for his quality representation, Ifekwe said Kalu has fulfilled his electoral promises, she assured that the people promised will always support him in his political endeavour.

Her words; “my heart is overwhelmed by what Orji Uzor Kalu has been doing for me and the entire community. He is a good leader who does not disappoint because he has fulfilled more than what he promised us during the campaign.

“He is God’s sent and God-fearing since he became our Senator he has taken our welfare very seriously and we are very grateful to him for the roads, schools, and infrastructure which he has provided for us.

Nigerian Nurse Bags Three Years Imprisonment In Us For Sexually Abusing Patients

Alex Enemanna

December 31, 2021

A Nigerian health worker, Godbless Uwadiegwu, who pleaded guilty to sex crimes involving memory care patients in the United States has been sentenced to three years in prison.

Uwadiegwu, 59, of Middletown, pleaded guilty to two counts of gross sexual imposition last month. He sexually assaulted two women at two different facilities in Warren County.

On Tuesday, Judge Don Oda sentenced Uwadiegwu to the maximum prison sentence, 18 months on each conviction for a total of three years, wlwt reports.

Victims and their families didn’t attend the sentencing hearing due to airline and COVID-19 issues, but a livestream was available for them to watch it remotely.

In addition, victim advocate, Erika Bourelle, read letters on behalf of the victims and their families.

One letter was written by one of the victims herself.

“Some people may not remember, but I do. This happened on his first day in my building. I needed assistance after using the restroom and he came in to help me wipe,” she wrote.

The victim described how Uwadiegwu sexually assaulted her.

“I said, ‘Hey, what are you doing?’ And he was very shocked and said, ‘Oh, I’m sorry. That was an accident,’” the victim wrote. “He takes advantage of people who can’t defend themselves, and I think he needs to go to prison for as long as possible.”

Bourelle read another letter written by the second victim’s son. His mother suffers from Alzheimer’s and dementia

“It is obvious what a sad, pathetic person you are. What kind of monster preys on defenceless women?”, he wrote. “Thanks to this terrible disease, there is less and less of my mother, but she has moments of clarity, times when mom is back. Her eyes are clear and she is exactly how I remember her. We live for those moments. Unfortunately, when it comes to the sexual assault, my mother remembers.”

He said Uwadiegwu used to bring his mother gifts and candy to gain her trust. Instead, he betrayed it.

“My mother doesn’t remember much these days, but she remembers you and what you did. So, she is left with shame and fear. That is the impact on my mother,” he wrote.

On Tuesday, Uwadiegwu spoke for the first time publicly. He didn’t admit to any wrongdoing. He said he was just doing his job.

“I have been a missionary. I lived in a church, and I have been working to help people in this field,” Uwadiegwu said. “As a caregiver, I put empathy in my work in helping people.”

Uwadiegwu said the job of a caregiver is a very serious job and sometimes he had to clean patients.

“I really apologise if there was any way to think I had done anything I shouldn’t do,” Uwadiegwu said. “It never came across my mind at any time. Please believe me.”

Uwadiegwu faces similar charges in Butler County. He’s scheduled to appear in court there next week.

FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello Tests Positive To COVID-19

Alex Enemanna

December 31, 2021

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.

The minister disclosed this on his official facebook page on Friday. He said; “I have tested positive for COVID-19.

“After a hide and seek period spanning 21 months (1yr 9 months) between COVID-19 and my humble self, the virus finally caught up with me during the dying days of 2021. After feeling unwell from 28th December, I decided to do a COVID-19 test yesterday morning.

The result came out positive this morning. Currently doing fine, with some sore throat, feverish feeling and mild running nose. Undertaking treatment and isolation at home.

“I salute and wish all the medical personnel in the FCT and beyond who have been in the front line fighting this pandemic a happy and prosperous new year 2022. I pray for the quick recovery of all of us currently afflicted with COVID-19.

“I have been informed by the experts that my case is mild because I took two shots of the COVID-19 vaccine. I appeal to all those who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 to do so.

Thanks and Happy New year to all”.

Ogah Leads PAGMI Steering Committee To Buhari, Presents Gold Mining Framework To President (Photos)

ABN TV EDITOR

December 31, 2021

Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah on Wednesday led the Steering Committee of the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI) to President Muhammadu Buhari to brief him on the activities of the Initiative.

The Committee which had in attendance the Executive Secretary/CEO of PAGMI, Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) also presented the ‘Responsible Gold Mining Framework and Guidance Document’ to the President.

The policy document details the action plan of the Initiative.

PAGMI Steering Committee also presented documents on Responsible Sourcing Guidelines for Gold Buying Centres and Cooperatives, as well as Responsible Sourcing Toolkit for PAGMI Suppliers.

It could be recalled that in mid June 2021, PAGMI boosted Nigeria’s foreign reserve as it presented the first artisanally mined gold bar valued at 268 million Naira, to President Muhammadu Buhari.

At the ceremony in June, the Chairman of PAGMI and Chief of Staff to the President, Prof Ibrahim Gambari received a dummy cheque of N268.6m from the Central Bank Governor for PAGMI’s maiden gold bar of 12.5kg.

The President disclosed that efforts are being made to support artisanal miners in improving the standard of the gold that would be sold to the Central Bank, in order to ensure that they meet international benchmarks.

He said the gold-buying program of the Central Bank will ensure that artisanal miners are no longer subjected to the volatility in gold prices that occur in the absence of credible off-takers, which often results to significant losses in the value of gold sold by miners.

Further discussing the advantages of PAGMI, the president said: ‘It will also improve economic activities in our rural communities,’ adding that about 250,000 jobs would be created from improved gold mining operations.

He assured Nigerians that government would continue to do its best to promote policies and programs that engender economic growth and jobs creation.

Ikpeazu Signs 2022 Appropriations Bill Of N147bn Into Law

ABN TV EDITOR

December 31, 2021

Ikpeazu Signs 2022 Appropriations Bill Of N147bn Into Law — Okezie Ikpeazu

Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu has signed into Law, the 2022 Appropriation Bill of =N= 147, 282, 196, 200 (One Hundred and Forty Seven Billion, Two Hundred and Eighty Two Million, One Hundred and Ninety Six Thousand, Two Hundred Naira Only.

The Budget has a Capital Expenditure Profile of =N= 79, 779, 887, 500 (Seventy Nine Billion, Seven Hundred and Seventy Nine Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty Seven Thousand, Five Hundred Naira Only while Recurrent Expenditure has an outlay of =N= 67, 502, 318, 700 (Sixty Seven Billion, Five Hundred and Two Million, Three Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, Seven Hundred Naira Only, Onyebuchi Ememanka, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said in a statement.

Governor Ikpeazu had on 14th December 2021 presented to the State Assembly, an Appropriation Bill in the sum of =N= 147, 787, 781, 300 (One Hundred and Forty Seven Billion, Seven Hundred and Eighty Seven Million, Seven hundred and Eighty One Thousand, Three Hundred Naira Only.

The release added, “The Governor expressed his gratitude to the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly for their display of patriotism in the expeditious review and passage of the Appropriation Bill.

“Governor Ikpeazu assures the Assembly and indeed the people of Abia State that he will be relentless in the implementation of this budget for the peace, order and welfare of the people of Abia State.

“The Governor tasked agencies of the State Government with specific obligations in this budget to take their assignments very seriously. In particular, he challenged revenue earning agencies in the State to redouble their efforts and carry out their jobs with greater transparency and a deeper sense of patriotism.

“With this, Abia State has sustained the January to December Budget cycle and this Budget becomes effective, tomorrow, January 1st, 2022.”

Insecurity: Group Knocks Masari, Says He Lacks Capacity To Govern

Alex Enemanna

December 31, 2021

AS insecurity continues to grow worse across the country, a Civil Society Organisation, Adopt A Goal for Development Initiative, Thursday, accused the Governor of Katsina State, Aminu Masari of losing capacity to govern the State following call on citizens to bear arms for self defence against bandits’ attacks.

This was stated by the Executive Director, Adopt A Goal for Development Initiative, Ariyo-Dare Atoye, while speaking with newsmen in reaction to statement of the Governor.

According to Atoye, the Governor is afraid to openly speak the truth that President Muhammadu Buhari has allegedly failed to provide Nigerians security.

He said: “But it must be said that Gov Masari has either lost the capacity to govern Katsina in line with Section 14 (2b) of the 1999 Constitution, or he is afraid of speaking the truth to President Buhari and calling for a national emergency in setting up state police.

“The need for people to bear arms comes in the last stages of multi-level security solutions to crimes, but the other steps, including State Police and Sheriffs at the local community level, have not been fully exhausted.

“It is important to tell Gov Masari that without exhausting the available opportunities to address the insecurity gaps in Katsina and other states, the call for the people to bear arms will amount to beckoning human volcanic eruptions.

“A country or state with no data of its citizens and any technological monitoring system or security surveillance system cannot start the call for everyone to be armed because even the governor will not come out of his house or office in a free-for-use gun society without the institutional capacity to monitor and prosecute violations.”

However, he (Atoye) tackled the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to respond to Governor Masari for calling on the people in his state to bear arms for self defence.

“The people will like to hear the response of Nigeria’s sectional Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, to Gov Masari’s call to the people of Katsina to bear arms and protect themselves from bandits and terrorists.

“We expect AGF Malami to also make his opinion known on the subject matter as he did when the Southwest initiated Amotekun as a stop-gap response to the rising insecurity in the region”, he said.

He further stated that, “The opinions of Lai Mohammed, Minister of information, Garba Shehu and Femi Adesina, Presidential spokespersons who had something to say about Amotekun are expected as a reaction to the pain of the people of Katsina and the helplessness of Gov Masari.”

It will be recalled that the governor backed up his call by saying that, “It’s Islamically allowed for one to defend himself against attack. One must rise to defend himself, his family and assets. If you die while trying to defend yourself, you’ll be considered a martyr. It’s surprising how a bandit would own a gun while a good man trying to defend himself and his family doesn’t have one.”

“We’ll support those who come with the initiative to procure arms because residents need to also complement the efforts of security agencies. These people (security agents) don’t have the number to protect the people. When President Buhari came, he even tried by increasing the number of our security agents but it’s inadequate. Count it yourself, how many policemen do we have in this country? How many soldiers do we have?”

President Buhari Signs 2022 Appropriations Bill Of N17.127trn Into Law

Alex Enemanna

December 31, 2021

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently signing the 2023 Appropriations Bill of N17.126 trillion into law.

The signing ceremony is taking place at the Council Chambers, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Present at Council Chamber to witness the ceremony are the President of Senate, Dr Ahmad Lawan, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed.

Others are the Secretary to the government of the Federation, SGF, Boss Mustapha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate) Senator Babajide Omoworari and some staff of the President.

Details Shortly..

Rep. Ben Kalu Holds Townhall Meeting With Constituents In Bende, Presents His Achievements (Photos, Video)

ABN TV EDITOR

December 31, 2021

Member representing Bende Federal Constituency, Hon. Benjamin Kalu has held another edition of his annual townhall meeting and empowerment programme with his constituents where he also presented the scorecard of his representation in the past two years to the people of the constituency.

Our correspondent gathered that the lawmaker had in the past 19 years held the empowerment programme on the 29th of every December.

The 2021 edition of the ceremony took place at the Agbamuzu Hall, Bende in Bende LGA, Abia State.

https://youtu.be/5QyzYIjkArM

The Wednesday empowerment programme which coincided with the third edition of his townhall meeting and report presentation since he was elected into the House of Representatives is the 19th in the series.

The event kicked off with a tour by the traditional rulers, stakeholders, all constituents present and the member representing Bende Federal Constituency who led them round the Projects displayed in the gallery, explaining the current stage of each project.

Rep. Benjamin Kalu in his speech at the event, acknowledged the presence of the traditional rulers present at the event, also specially recognizing the Senate President, Distinguished Sen. Ahmed Lawan, the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and the Senate Chief Whip, the Senator representing Abia North Senatorial Zone, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu appreciating them for their leadership and support through these years.

He expressed his gratitude to the constituents who had made it to the 19th edition of the Annual townhall, stating that this is a fulfillment of his promise to Bende people, to stay accountable. In his words;

‘It is with a sense of gratitude that I thank you all for honouring yet another invitation to this annual town hall meeting. This is one of the promises I made to Bende, to constantly be accountable, available, and maintain close communication with my constituents regarding my activities at the House of Representatives.

‘It has been an arduous but fulfilling journey representing you, the good people of Bende Federal Constituency, in the last two years. Regardless of the many challenges that has come with it, we have strived to rewrite the history of Bende while delivering the dividends of democracy and good governance. We have raised the bar for quality representation and have put Bende on the national map.’

He stated that the day is a remarkable day as it represents very special events in his life, most especially, his wedding anniversary and the remembrance of his late mother who was a great humanitarian and philanthropist, adding that this is the reason he maintained this day as the day to celebrate with Bende constituents as well as present his scorecard of representation since emergence as the member representing the constituency at the National Assembly.

Major highlights of the event include the presentation of the report for his achievements and legislative activities within the last two years since his resumption into office with over 22 motions, 51 bills sponsored, various oversight activities as well as federal government Interventions championed by the law maker for the good of Bende and Nigeria at large.

Rep. Kalu further listed in detail the projects he has attracted to the constituency, some of which have been completed while the rest are still ongoing which include;

1. Roads and Infrastructure:
a. Umuimenyi Nkpa Ecological Fund Project (on-going): Attracted an 11km Ecological Intervention Project in Umuimenyi Nkpa which includes construction of roads and the Nkpa bridge to curb the erosion menace in the communities.

b. Umuahia-Bende-Ohafia Road (on-going): Commenced the rehabilitation and construction of the Umuahia-Bende-Ohafia Road (LOT2) in Abia State to the tune of ₦12bn.

c. Etitiulo-Itumbauzo Road (on-going): Secured the rehabilitation of the Etitiulo-Itumbauzo road which has now been asphalted.

d. Construction of 1km Road in Etitiulo Bende in Bende LGA (ongoing).

e. Construction of 1km Amaogwu Ndiokorieukwu road (ongoing).
f. Construction of 600-metre Amaogwu Agbomiri road (ongoing).
g. Construction of 400-metre Agbomiri Umorie road (ongoing).

2. Health:
a. Completion of Health and Maternity Centre for Amaogwu, Bende, Bende Federal Constituency. (Completed)
b. Health Insurance Scheme for Bende providing 90% subsidized healthcare for over 500 Bende indigenes. (Completed)
c. Ntalakwu Health Centre. (90% completed).
d. Construction of Maternity Health care in Okputong, Bende town in Bende L.G.A. (ongoing)
e. Renovation of Umunnato Item Health Centre (Ongoing).

3. Employment: Several Bende graduates have benefited from federal employment.

4. Education:
a. Construction and Furnishing of 3-classroom block in Nkporo central school, Ubibia in Itumbauzo Bende LGA.
b. Construction of 3-classroom block at Ndiwo Town School in itumbauzo Bende LGA.
c. Completed renovation of Uzuakoli Practicing School.
d. Completed renovation of Amazu Central School, Umuhu Ezechi.
e. Distribution of learning and educational materials to community schools in 13 wards of Bende Federal Constituency.
f. Renovation of a block of 6 classrooms in Girls secondary school Uzuakoli.
g. Renovation of 3 classrooms in Uzuakoli township school, currently ongoing.
h. Renovation of Nkpa technical school Nkpa in Bende L.G.A, (Completed).
i. Construction and furnishing of 3 class rooms in Onuibina primary school Igbere in Bende L.G.A completed.
j. Renovation of a block of 3 classrooms in Community primary school Okai item completed.
k. Construction of a block of 3 classrooms in Amaokai primary school Ugwueke, ongoing.
l. Construction and renovation of of six classroom blocks in community primary school, Apanu Item.
m. Construction of Block of 3 Classrooms in Okporoenyi, Bende.
n. Construction/renovation and furnishing of a block of 3 classrooms at Item Community High School.

5. Completed the Divisional Immigration Office in Bende.

6. Construction of ICT Centre.

7. Agriculture:
a. Skills Acquisition/Training of 200 Bende Constituents on Aquaponics development in Bende Federal Constituency.
b. Training and empowerment of Youth and Women on Agribusiness management in Bende Federal Constituency.
c. Training and empowerment of over 1000 Bende indigenes on rice farming and production
d. Supply of Agricultural Seeds to Farmers in Bende.

8. Water:
i. Solar powered borehole drilling at Ovum Ugwu, Nkpa (Completed).
ii. Construction of solar powered borehole in Mba Autonomous community Ozuitem, (Completed).
iii. Construction of solar powered borehole in Okpufu Amankalu Alayi in Bende L.G.A, (Ongoing).
iv. Construction of solar powered borehole in Okoko Item (Ongoing).

9. Security and Transport Support Programmes: Donation of 27 motorbikes and 13 tricycles (keke napep) to various wards in Bende to curb insecurity and improve transportation in Bende.
10. Power Infrastructure:
i. Construction of a solar farm to house a mini grid for energy supply in Bende which will provide light for 25 years non-stop and away from the national grid (Ongoing).
ii. Installation of 2.5 kva transformer in Amaokwe Item, (Completed).
iii. Provision of Solar Street lights across various communities in Bende.
iv. Construction of 2×7.5 MVA 33/11KV injection Substation in Bende Town with one feeder extension at Ozuitem.

11. Hall Rehabilitations:
a. Rehabilitation of Uche-Ebiri hall in Igbere (Ongoing)
b. Agbamuzu town hall, Bende completed.
12. Bende Widows Support Programme (19th Edition)
13. Bende Food Support Programme (19th Edition)

Also speaking at the event, The Chairman of Traditional Rulers in Bende, Eze Uwakwe Ukaegbu expressed his joy in all that he sees happening in Bende Federal Constituency, He emphasized that they have never seen it happen like this before since the inception of democracy, he emphasized that people who have gone to the house and received these funds for these items but they pocketed it instead of distributing it to the people. He prayed that God will continue to guide and strengthen the member as he continues to go higher in his journey.

The constituents were also given time to make remarks, ask questions and also gain clarity on certain issues concerning projects and his representation at the National Assembly. This was duly answered by the representative. While expressing their surprise in the number of achievements by the member in just 24 months, the visibly pleased attendees expressed their joy as they interacted with their representative.

The event featured distribution of various empowerment items to Bende constituents ranging from motorcycles, sewing machines, washing machines, grinding machines. He also shared wrappers to all the women who were present at the event while ensuring that everyone who attended the event left with something.

A constituent, Mrs. Ngozi Ezeogo who could not hold his joy said,

‘What is happening today in Bende is to show that Bende people got it right this time, this is because we have never experience such a time in this constituency, we have had representatives but none have been as productive as Rep. Benjamin Kalu. Bende is grateful to him, May God continue to bless him more’

The constituents were filled with gratitude as they continued their songs of praise to God for the blessing of Rep. Benjamin Kalu who assured them to do more.

The event was attended by Eze. Jerry Akpala, Eze. Uwakwe Ukaegbu, Eze Innocent Mba, Eze. Sunday Ogbonna, Eze. Sunday Chile Ogoh, Hon. Amobi Ogah, Elder. Chief Ogba Nwokoro President General Item Development Association, Dr. Emeka Nwachukwu, Prof. Victor Ukaogo, Chief Daniel Akwari and other dignitaries.