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  • Mbah Has Done More Than Enough in Two Years To Deserve 2nd Tenure – Group

    Mbah Has Done More Than Enough in Two Years To Deserve 2nd Tenure – Group

    …as Tomorrow Is Here Movement inaugurates Enugu East Zone Coordinators

    A popular socio-political group in Enugu State, Tomorrow Is Here Movement, has declared that Governor Peter Mbah has done more than enough in his two years in office to deserve a second term in 2027, describing his performance as “unprecedented in the history of the state.”

    The group made this assertion at the weekend during the inauguration of the Enugu East Senatorial District coordinators held at the prestigious Nike Lake Landmark Resort, Enugu. The event attracted political leaders, private sector representatives, women groups, professional bodies and stakeholders from the six local government areas that make up the senatorial zone.

    Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Patron of the Enugu East Zone, Alhaji Friday Sani, commended the governor for transforming Enugu into a model state through his visionary and people-centered projects. According to him, the Tomorrow Is Here Movement is resolute in its mission to ensure Mbah’s re-election to the Lion Building to consolidate the ongoing transformation.

    “Governor Mbah has shown that nothing is impossible for leaders who are truly committed to service. The level of development witnessed in just two years—especially in the agriculture and industrial sectors—has made him the best performing governor in the country,” Sani said.

    He highlighted the governor’s strides in transforming agriculture from subsistence to industrial scale, citing the establishment of 260 farm estates, the procurement of hundreds of tractors, and wide-ranging support for farmers as tangible evidence of Mbah’s commitment to economic diversification and food security.

    In his remarks, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Movement, Chief Tony Okonkwo, said the group was taking deep roots across the 260 electoral wards of the state, spreading the message of good governance and performance-driven leadership of the governor.

    He charged the newly inaugurated coordinators to mobilize across political parties and communities to sustain the momentum for Mbah’s return in 2027 to enable him continue the good work of the administration.

    The Deputy Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Engr. Ezenta Ezeani, lauded the governor for setting a new benchmark for leadership in Nigeria, noting that Enugu has become a reference point for good governance.

    “Within two years in office, Governor Mbah’s achievements are being compared with those who spent eight years in power. People are amazed at his speed and quality of delivery. Yet, the governor insists that the best is yet to come,” Ezeani enthused. He urged members of the movement to see themselves as “missionaries of continuity,” emphasizing that Mbah’s performance has already simplified their mobilization task.

    On his part, the Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Engr. Beloved-Dan Anike, said local government chairmen in the state had aligned with the governor’s disruptive and visionary leadership model. He praised the movement for its foresight and reiterated his council’s readiness to complement the governor’s agenda.

    “Governor Mbah has changed the narrative in Enugu East by constructing 27 roads simultaneously — something unheard of in the history of the state,” Anike stated, adding “We’re training 100 youths in the aviation sector, the first batch had been issued with certificates, covering 5,000 residents under the Universal Health Coverage, and provided free WAEC registration for over 1,700 families. The governor’s example inspires us to deliver more.”

    Also speaking, Hon. Nnamdi Nwafor, PDP Chairman of Enugu East Zone; Hon. Ejike Jude, member representing Igboeze North Constituency; and Hon. Nkiru Ugwuagu, Deputy Chairman of Ezeagu LGA, described the Tomorrow Is Here Movement as a grassroots platform designed to sensitize and mobilize citizens on the transformative achievements of the Mbah administration.

    They cited the governor’s investments in smart schools, healthcare facilities, water reticulation, road networks, and youth empowerment as clear indicators of a government focused on sustainable development.

    The highlight of the event was the formal inauguration of the zonal coordinators, who pledged to immediately commence grassroots mobilization and ensure overwhelming support for Governor Mbah’s re-election come 2027.

  • Anambra Guber: At campaign tour, Moghalu promises ‘robust social welfare plan’ 

    The Labour Party Governorship Candidate for the November 8 Anambra election, Dr. George Moghalu, has continued his statewide grassroots campaign, receiving an outpouring of support across Onitsha South, Odume, Enekwasipu, Awada, Igbariam, Nando, Ikem Ivite, and Anambra West.

    From Enekwasipu to Odume Obosi and Awada, Moghalu was welcomed with songs, cheers, and prayers as he condemned the burden of over-taxation, infrastructural collapse, and insecurity that have plagued the state.

    He vowed to end the humiliating aka-odo tax collection method, dismantle intimidation by agents of the state, and instead institutionalize modern agriculture, empower youths through skills acquisition, and reposition education to drive sustainable development.

    At Odoakpu in Onitsha South, the campaign train was received by members from all the 17 wards of the local government in a carnival-like atmosphere.

    The House of Assembly members representing Onitsha South 1 and 2 state constituencies, Hon. Fred Ezenwa and Hon. Jude Umennajiego openly declared their full support, describing Moghalu and Okaro as the candidate best prepared to rescue Anambra, stressing that his leadership would restore Anambra’s lost glory and enthrone good governance anchored on transparency, fairness, and accountability.

    The campaign later touched down in Igbariam, Nando, and Ikem Ivite in Anambra East, before moving to Anambra West where Moghalu was received with warmth and excitement.

    He assured farmers and rural dwellers of massive investments in agriculture, rural roads, irrigation, functional schools, and healthcare facilities, pledging that no community will be abandoned. He unveiled a robust social welfare plan that includes monthly allowances for citizens above 70 years, free healthcare for those above 65, and scholarships for outstanding students through a State Scholarship Board. Moghalu emphasized that Onitsha, the commercial heartbeat of Anambra, will reclaim its pride of place as a clean, organized, and economically vibrant city.

    Addressing the essence of his town-to-town campaign, Moghalu explained that it was designed for direct interaction with Ndi Anambra, to better understand their aspirations and challenges. He urged the people to vote Labour Party not only to transform Anambra but also to strengthen the national movement led by H.E. Mr. Peter Obi ahead of 2027. Drawing inspiration from Governor Alex Otti’s transformation of Abia State, Moghalu promised to deliver similar people-centered reforms that would restore hope, dignity, and prosperity to Anambra.

    In response, the people across Onitsha South, Enekwasipu, Awada, Igbariam, Nando, Ikem Ivite, and Anambra West pledged their total loyalty and unwavering support for his candidacy and the Labour Party.

  • Vice President Shettima returns to Abuja after UNGA80 

    Vice President Shettima returns to Abuja after UNGA80 

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Abuja after a highly successful diplomatic mission representing President Bola Tinubu at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York and concluding strategic engagements in Germany.

    During the week-long international engagement, the vice president delivered President Tinubu’s national statement calling for comprehensive UN reforms, championed Africa’s sovereignty over its $700 billion mineral resources, and strengthened strategic partnerships with the United Kingdom, Gates Foundation, and other international stakeholders.

    Later, VP Shettima met with the UN Secretary-General António Guterres and secured his commendation for Nigeria’s bid for a permanent Security Council seat and in another engagement, he showcased the country’s $200 billion energy transition opportunity to global investors.

    The vice president also assured the Nigerian diaspora community of robust engagement in the President Tinubu administration’s policies and programmes before his engagements in Germany. Premium Times

  • Moghalu Celebrates Innoson Boss at 65

    Moghalu Celebrates Innoson Boss at 65

    Labour Party Governorship Candidate in the forthcoming Anambra election, Dr. George Moghalu, has felicitated the Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma, on the occasion of his birthday.

    In a goodwill message made available by his Special Assistant on Media, Johnson Okoye, Dr. Moghalu joined family, friends, and associates in celebrating what he described as “a distinguished son of Nnewi, a national asset, and one of the most innovative entrepreneurs Nigeria has produced.”

    He commended Chief Chukwuma for his entrepreneurial spirit and pioneering strides in establishing Innoson Motors, noting that through the company, he has placed Nnewi and Anambra on the global industrial map while advancing Nigeria’s quest for technological growth and economic independence.

    “As he marks this new chapter, I celebrate not only his personal achievements but also his outstanding contributions to community development and national progress.

    “It is my earnest prayer that the Almighty God will continue to grant him sound health, divine wisdom, and many more fruitful years of service to humanity,” Moghalu stated.

  • “Nigeria at 65: Powell Homes and Shelters MD Praises Governor Mbah, Calls for Safe Housing”

    “Nigeria at 65: Powell Homes and Shelters MD Praises Governor Mbah, Calls for Safe Housing”

    Leaders all over the nation have been urged to use the opportunity presented by this year’s Independence Day celebration to unite and build a stronger nation that reflects the vision of her founding fathers.

    The Managing Director of Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd, Architect Chibuikem Onyekachi Emmanuel, made this call on Wednesday through his Independence Day message.

    He stated that Nigeria has made significant progress in building a stronger nation, particularly in the real estate and housing sector, even though the rising cost of building materials continues to challenge developers and homeowners.

    He also emphasized the need for innovation and dedication from all the stakeholders in the real estate sector, to create homes that meet the needs of Nigerians .

    Architect Emmanuel also praised Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his leadership and the positive impact his administration has made in the construction and housing industry.

    He highlighted how the governor’s policies have provided real estate professionals across Enugu and beyond with the platform to grow their businesses and serve their clients better.

    He also stated that the governor’s focus on infrastructure and improving the ease of doing business has encouraged investors and developers to provide homes that are affordable, durable, and suited to modern living.

    According to him, Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd has played a key role in delivering homes that offer comfort, security, and pride for residents.

    Architect Emmanuel warned that as the real estate industry grows, Nigerians must be careful of quacks and unqualified individuals who continue to exploit the housing sector, putting lives and investments at risk.

    He advised citizens to verify credentials, demand proper documentation, and work only with licensed professionals when investing in property.

    He however, assured the public that Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd will continue to deliver high quality housing solutions.

    “The company designs projects with care, uses quality materials, and follows professional standards in every stage. Transparency and customer satisfaction remain top priorities.*

    ” With branches in Enugu, Abuja, Awka, Asaba, Owerri, Aba, and other cities, Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd continues to expand its reach, providing reliable housing solutions to more Nigerians. Architect Emmanuel encouraged citizens to support good leadership and work together to ensure that every Nigerian can access safe and beautiful homes.”

    The message reads,
    Independence Day Message from Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd

    As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Day, we at Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd celebrate the progress made in building a stronger nation, especially in the real estate and housing sector. Over the years, access to quality housing has been a major concern, and the rising cost of building materials continues to challenge developers and homeowners alike. Yet, with dedication and innovation, we continue to create homes that meet the needs of Nigerians.

    We want to take this moment to praise Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his outstanding leadership and the positive impact his administration has made in the construction and housing sector. Through his policies, real estate professionals in Enugu and across the state have received the platform and support to grow their businesses and serve their communities better.

    Governor Mbah’s focus on infrastructure and ease of doing business has encouraged investors and developers to deliver homes that are affordable, durable, and suited to modern living. We are proud to be part of this journey, building homes that provide comfort, security, and pride for our clients.

    However, as the real estate industry grows, it is important for Nigerians to be cautious. Quacks and unqualified individuals continue to exploit the housing sector, putting lives and investments at risk. We urge citizens to verify credentials, ask for proper documentation, and only work with licensed professionals when investing in property.

    At Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd, we remain committed to delivering the best housing solutions to our customers. Our projects are designed with care, built with quality materials, and developed with professionalism in every stage. We ensure transparency and customer satisfaction, because your trust is our priority.

    With branches in Enugu, Abuja, Awka, Asaba, Owerri, Aba, and other cities, we continue to expand our reach to serve more Nigerians with reliable housing solutions. We pledge to maintain high standards in all our developments and to contribute positively to the growth of Nigeria’s real estate sector.

    On this Independence Day, let us celebrate our nation’s progress, support good leadership, and continue to work together for a future where every Nigerian can have a safe and beautiful home.

    Signed,
    Architect Chibuikem Onyekachi Emmanuel
    Chief Executive Officer, Powell Homes and Shelters Ltd.

  • 65th Independence: Anambra at Crossroads, Time To Reclaim Her Greatness – Moghalu

    My beloved Ndi Anambra, my fellow Nigerians, today we join our compatriots across the nation and beyond to celebrate 65 years of Nigeria’s independence. October 1st is not just a date in history; it is a reminder of the sacrifices of our founding fathers and mothers who secured for us the dignity of self-rule, the pride of nationhood, and the hope of a prosperous future.

    Independence Day is a time for celebration, but it is also a moment for sober reflection. We must ask: have we, as a state and as a people, lived up to the promise of independence? In Anambra, the truth is sobering. Our state, known for excellence, resilience, and industry, has sadly been reduced to a shadow of its great potential.

    According to the Phillips Consulting Limited (PCL) States Performance Index 2025, Anambra is ranked 36th overall, placing us in the red zone of livability in Nigeria. This should deeply trouble us all. In road quality, our state is ranked 31st, exposing the poor standard of roads being constructed. In capital expenditure per capita, we are ranked 33rd, showing limited reinvestment into the very infrastructure that drives development. In public healthcare quality, Anambra is ranked 30th, highlighting the collapse of our hospitals and the struggles of our people to access decent healthcare. In education, we are ranked 34th, a painful reminder of how far our schools have declined and how little attention is given to the future of our children.

    Insecurity has worsened. Anambra State have recorded over 300 deaths since inception of this current administration. Revenue collection has been handed over to Aka-odo touts who exploit our traders and entrepreneurs. To make matters worse, our local governments, which should be the engine of grassroots development, have been crippled. Between January and June this year, Anambra’s local governments received over ₦60.2 billion from Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). Yet, the state government hijacks these funds, leaving LGAs with barely 10 percent, only enough to pay salaries, with no meaningful impact in our communities.

    My dear people, this is not governance. This is not service. And this is not the Anambra that our heroes, past and present, fought to build. But I come before you today, not only to lament, but to offer hope. For every challenge we face, there is a solution. For every setback, there is a chance to rebuild. For every pain, there is a promise of healing.

    That is why I, Dr. George Moghalu, have offered myself to serve you as Governor under the Labour Party, a party of the people and for the people. Together, we can build durable roads and infrastructure that stand the test of time; revive and modernize our education system to prepare our children for the future; restore dignity to healthcare so that no Anambra son or daughter is left behind in sickness; secure our communities, ensuring that traders, farmers, and businesses thrive without fear; and empower local governments to work for the people, ensuring that allocations are used for real development and not political patronage.

    My vision is simple but profound: to return government to the people, to serve with integrity, to govern with accountability, and to build an Anambra that truly reflects the greatness of her people. Fellow Ndi Anambra, independence reminds us that freedom is never given, it is won. Progress is never wished for, it is worked for. Together, we can reclaim our state from the grip of underperformance and usher in a new dawn of prosperity, dignity, and hope.

    As we raise our green white green flag today, let it remind us that the promise of Nigeria and the dream of Anambra are still alive. With faith, unity, and courage, we shall build the Anambra of our dreams.

    Happy Independence Day!
    God bless Anambra State!!
    God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!

    Dr. George Moghalu                                       Labour Party Governorship Candidate Anambra State

  • PENGASSAN to Call Off Strike, Dangote Group to Reabsorb Sacked Staff, as FG Brokers Peace

    PENGASSAN to Call Off Strike, Dangote Group to Reabsorb Sacked Staff, as FG Brokers Peace

    The Federal Government has brokered peace between Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), ending a labour dispute that had threatened fuel supply stability.

    After two days of talks on Monday and Tuesday, the parties reached an agreement that disengaged workers will be reabsorbed into other Dangote Group companies, with no loss of pay.

    The conciliation meeting was convened by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, following a directive by PENGASSAN to cut off gas supply and withdraw services from the refinery after more than 800 staff were terminated.

    The high-level session was attended by the National Security Adviser, the Ministers of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Labour and Employment, and State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), as well as the Directors-General of the DSS and the NIA.

    In his remarks, Dr. Dingyadi reminded both parties that “the right of workers to unionise in accordance with Nigerian law must be respected.”

    The signed communique outlined three key decisions:

    Reabsorption of Workers: “The Dangote Group management will immediately start the process of taking the disengaged staff to other companies within the Dangote Group, with no loss of pay,” the statement read.

    No Victimisation: Both sides agreed that “no worker will be victimised arising from their role in the impasse.”

    Strike Suspension: PENGASSAN also confirmed that it would “start the process of calling off the strike.”

    The communique concluded that all parties entered the agreement “in good faith.”

    The dispute had raised concerns about potential disruptions in fuel supply and power generation. Earlier, ARISE News reported that the Federal Government reassured Nigerians of “stable and uninterrupted fuel supply” despite the standoff, underscoring the national stakes in the conflict.

    With this resolution, industrial peace has been temporarily restored, although analysts note that structural issues in the oil and gas sector’s labour relations remain unresolved. Arise News

  • Nigeria @ 65: Mbah Urges Optimism, Unity

    Nigeria @ 65: Mbah Urges Optimism, Unity

    …Says the end will vindicate Tinubu’s economic policies

    …Enugu on the pathway of turnaround, economic growth

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has urged Nigerians to hold fast to optimism and unity in the face of present challenges, assuring that the economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu Administration and citizens’ huge sacrifices would ultimately pay off if the nation stayed the course.

    Mbah said that while the anniversary may understandably be low-key, it did not obviate Nigeria’s giant strides as an independent nation.

    These were contained in his message to Nigerians in the early hours of Wednesday to mark the nation’s 65th independence anniversary. In the message, which he personally signed, the governor congratulated the citizens for “the proud milestone.”

    “At 65, our independence is a reminder of what we can achieve as a people when we are united. It is also a reminder that progress demands sacrifice, and that tomorrow is shaped by the choices we make today.

    “The commemoration of our 65th independence anniversary may understandably be low-key, but the significance of the strides we have made as a nation is by no means underwhelming.

    “Those strides are manifest in the remarkable achievements we have recorded across key sectors. They reflect as well in the bold reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that have brought stability to the Nigerian economy. The sacrifices may be huge today, but there is no doubt that the end will vindicate the decisions if we stay the course.

    “As we raise our flags today, let us renew our covenant to Nigeria; let us embrace the spirit of unity, and let us uphold the optimism that has carried us this far,” he stated.

    Mbah, while also recommitting to his administration’s inclusive development model that leaves no one behind, maintained that Enugu State, under his watch, was on the path of turnaround and exponential economic growth.

    “In Enugu State, this Independence Day is a fitting occasion to recommit to our pledge to make inclusion the cornerstone of government policy; to create wealth and deploy it for the benefit of everyone in Enugu State. We are staying the course. And no one will be left behind.

    “From moribund assets roaring back to life, to Ndi Enugu enjoying a resounding sense of security of lives and property, our children transitioning to 260 Smart Green Schools, our rural communities accessing modern healthcare courtesy of our completed or ongoing 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, Ndi Enugu commuting conveniently and affordably via our modern transport system and infrastructure, Enugu State is no doubt on the pathway to assured turnaround and exponential economic growth,” he added.

  • Somto Maduagwu Was Brought In Dead After Abuja Robbery Attack – FCTA

    Somto Maduagwu Was Brought In Dead After Abuja Robbery Attack – FCTA

    The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Mandate Secretary on Health, Dr Dolapo Fasawe, has said that ARISE News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, was brought in dead to the Maitama General Hospital at about 4:30am on Monday.

    Dr Dolapo Fasawe offered the explanation in a statement by the FCTA to clarify an earlier report claiming that negligence by medical authorities contributed to the death of Somtochukwu Maduagwu after a robbery incident at her home in Abuja.

    Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, was a 29-year-old journalist who was killed in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, during an armed robbery at her Katampe residence in Abuja.

    According to residents of the apartment complex, the attack occurred around 3 a.m. when more than 15 armed robbers stormed the 16-apartment compound.

    Witnesses say security personnel raised an alarm and attempted to contact the police but received no immediate response. Sommie and a security guard, who was also injured in the assault, were rushed to Maitama District Hospital. However, relatives alleged they were denied urgent treatment because they could not immediately produce identification documents. Both later succumbed to their injuries.

    Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has commiserated with the management and staff of the ARISE News Channel over the death of Somtochukwu Maduagwu.

    Wike, in the statement by the FCTA, described her death as tragic and painful. The minister prayed for the continued support of the Almighty God for the staff and management of ARISE News, especially the Chairman, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, and the family and friends left behind by the deceased. The FCT Minister, in a statement, said a preliminary medical report would be made available to the police to aid their investigation while all efforts will be made to unravel the circumstances surrounding her death.

    He assured the family, friends and associates of the deceased that the Police will unravel the circumstances surrounding Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s death and bring those responsible to justice. Arise News

  • 63 year-old Pastor allegedly defile 2 sisters

    63 year-old Pastor allegedly defile 2 sisters

    The Enugu State Police Command has arraigned and secured the court-ordered remand of a 63-year-old pastor, Luke Eze, for the alleged rape of two sisters (names withheld), aged 16 and 19. The suspect was arrested on September 11, 2025, by operatives of the Iwollo Police Division of the Command, following a report by the victims’ parent.

    Investigations revealed that the pastor lured the 16-year-old victim to his church, City of Hope Ministry, a.k.a. “Ọkụ Night,” at Okunito-Amansiodo in the Oghe community of Ezeagu LGA, for a “deliverance session” on September 7, 2025. After having her engage in an empty-mortar-pounding ritual, he administered a stupefying liquid substance that rendered her unconscious, enabling him to rape her.

    When the younger sister did not return, her 19-year-old sibling (the second victim) went to the church, where she was subjected to the same deceptive ritual. The suspect administered the substance to her as well, and after she lost consciousness, he similarly violated her. Both victims regained consciousness the following afternoon, September 8, to find themselves naked, with bloodstains on their private parts and other physical evidence of the assault.

    The police recovered two plastic bottles containing the unidentified substance the suspect administered to the victims for forensic analysis. Luke Eze confessed to the crimes, blaming it on “the devil.” He has been arraigned in court, after conclusion of investigations by the Gender and Anti-Human Trafficking Section of the Command’s State CID, and remanded in correctional custody.

    The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, has condemned the act as abominable and senseless, cautioning parents and the public against falling prey to criminal elements masquerading as spiritual leaders. He assures the public of the Command’s commitment to ensuring justice is served in the case.

    SP DANIEL NDUKWE, anipr, mnisma
    Police Public Relations Officer
    Enugu State Command
    State Headquarters
    GRA, Enugu.
    September 30, 2025

  • Edo approves N799bn for revised 2025 supplementary budget

    Edo approves N799bn for revised 2025 supplementary budget

    The Edo State Executive Council has approved a revised supplementary budget of N799.820 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, up from the initial N675.220 billion, representing an increase of approximately N125 billion, representing 18 per cent.

    According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Fred Itua, the spokesperson for Governor Monday Okpebholo, the approval followed an emergency executive meeting presided over by the Chairman-in-Council and Governor Okpebholo on Monday.

    Briefing reporters after the meeting, the Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Okoebor, explained the rationale behind the adjustment and emphasised the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.

    Okoebor said, “Previously, we had a budget of N675 billion with recurrent expenditure having about 33 per cent and capital 67 per cent. The new revised budget now has about 70 per cent for capital expenditure as against 30 per cent for recurrent expenditure. It shows the commitment of Governor Monday Okpebholo to infrastructural development in Edo State.”

    Okoebor further explained the size and nature of the increment.

    He added, “The increment in the budget is about N125 billion, which signifies about 18 per cent of the previous budget. Recurrent increased by about N12 billion, while capital is about N113 billion from the previous one. Given about a 25 per cent increment in Capital expenditure and just five per cent increment in recurrent expenditure.

    “It clearly shows that the government is concerned about infrastructural development, making Edo people happy. We have done about 254km of roads across the state, and many more construction works are ongoing.

    “Recurrent expenditure has about a five per cent increment as the increase in minimum wage necessitated that increment, including a lot of employment that the present administration did in the hospital management board for over 100,0, and it needs to be captured.”

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohombamu, said the revised budget is expected to be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and passage.

    Recall that Edo House of Assembly, on December 23 2024, passed the state 2025 budget of N675 billion, increasing it from the N605 billion estimate submitted by Okpehbolo.

    The passage followed the adoption of the report of the House Committee on Budget and Project Monitoring at plenary.

    Presenting the report, the chairman of the committee, Sunday Fada (PDP Esan Central), said the budget was made up of N225 billion recurrent expenditure and N451 billion capital expenditure.

    Fada noted that the committee came up with the increase in the budgetary allocation to enable the governor to carry out his five-point agenda in the state.

    The House at the Committee of Supply considered the budget clause by clause and subsequently approved the increase from N605.7 billion to N675 billion.

    The Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, thereafter directed the clerk of the Assembly, Yahaya Omogbai, to forward clean copies of the budget to the governor for his assent. Punch

  • Soludo Mourns Tragic Loss of Arise TV Anchor 

    Soludo Mourns Tragic Loss of Arise TV Anchor 

    The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed profound sadness and a deep sense of loss over the heartbreaking news of the tragic death of Miss Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a distinguished daughter of Anambra State, who was brutally killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025.

    In his condolence message, Governor Soludo eulogised Miss Maduagwu, fondly called Sommie, as a shining star whose light has been prematurely extinguished. At just 29 years old, she had already distinguished herself as a lawyer-turned News Anchor, Reporter, and Producer with ARISE News Channel, where her vibrant voice and professional excellence connected with audiences across Nigeria and beyond. A lawyer by training and a journalist by passion, Sommie exemplified the industrious and excellence-driven spirit for which Anambra indigenes are renowned.

    The Governor also lamented that the circumstances of her death, cut down in the prime of her youth and career by criminal elements, is not only a personal tragedy to her family but a loss to Anambra State, the journalism profession, and indeed our entire nation. That such a promising young woman, who worked diligently to inform and educate the public, should meet such a violent and senseless end is deeply disturbing and unacceptable.

    Therefore, Governor Soludo, on behalf of the Government, and the entire people of Anambra State, extends his most sincere condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family members, friends, colleagues at ARISE News Channel, and all who knew and loved her. He also called on the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough, swift, and transparent investigation into this heinous crime and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice expeditiously.

    May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant her family and loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

    Signed:

    Christian Aburime
    Press Secretary to the Governor
    September 30, 2025.