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Abia Commissioner Urges Youths to Embrace Farming as State Expands Free Agricultural Support Programme

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The Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, FCIB, has called on young people across the state to take advantage of the government’s ongoing agricultural empowerment programme by embracing farming as a sustainable means of livelihood rather than engaging in criminal activities.

 

 

Speaking during the distribution of farm inputs to beneficiaries, Dr. Agbaeze said the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti is committed to transforming agriculture into a major driver of economic growth, food security, and youth employment in Abia State.

He noted that the increasing involvement of some youths in internet fraud and other criminal activities could be significantly reduced if more young people channel their energy into productive ventures such as agriculture.

According to the Commissioner, the state’s farmers empowerment programme has already captured more than 17,000 genuine farmers across the 17 Local Government Areas of Abia State, with plans to reach many more beneficiaries in the coming months.

“We have approximately five more tranches of agricultural inputs that will be distributed after this phase. Therefore, those who do not receive inputs today should remain hopeful, as they stand a greater chance of benefiting in subsequent batches. There is no need for panic or stampede,” he said.

Dr. Agbaeze explained that only properly verified and authenticated farmers captured in the state’s agricultural database would benefit from the programme. He stressed that the measure was introduced to eliminate the activities of ghost or portfolio farmers and ensure that government resources reach genuine farmers.

He disclosed that all farm inputs, including over 100 tonnes of fertilizer, have been fully paid for by the Abia State Government and are being distributed free of charge to beneficiaries. He further revealed that the government also provided free transportation for farmers to and from the distribution centres.

The Commissioner stated that beneficiaries would receive continuous support through training programmes and agricultural extension services provided by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with experts from the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) and the Abia State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP).

He explained that the initiative is designed to promote modern farming techniques, increase agricultural productivity, improve environmental sustainability, and enhance the living standards of farmers across the state.

“Our goal is to help our farmers move beyond subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. We want them to expand their production, increase their income, and become major contributors to the state’s economy and Nigeria’s food security,” he said.

Dr. Agbaeze added that increased agricultural production would not only create employment opportunities for thousands of youths but would also reduce crime, improve food availability, stabilize food prices, and strengthen the state’s economy.

He expressed confidence that with sustained government support, Abia farmers would soon produce enough food not only for the state but also for other parts of Nigeria and eventually for export.

The Commissioner commended Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti for his unwavering commitment to the agricultural sector, describing the farmers empowerment programme as a clear demonstration of the administration’s determination to improve food production, create jobs, and enhance the welfare of the people of Abia State.

 

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Henry Onyema Madubuike Unveils “Osiri,” a Novel Exploring Ancestral Heritage, Reincarnation and Cultural Identity

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Renowned author Henry Onyema Madubuike has released Osiri, a novel that explores the profound relationship between a people’s origins, their ancestral covenant with the supernatural, and the enduring mysteries of incarnation and reincarnation.

The novel presents a compelling narrative that examines how the choices and agreements made by ancestors continue to shape the identity, destiny and collective consciousness of future generations. Through rich storytelling, Osiri invites readers to reflect on the enduring influence of ancestral heritage and the spiritual foundations upon which societies are built.

Beyond its exploration of spirituality and cultural traditions, Osiri delves into universal themes of love, life, death and rebirth. The novel portrays these experiences as interconnected aspects of human existence, illustrating how relationships, sacrifices and enduring bonds transcend generations.

A central theme of the book is the significance of intimacy and human connection, emphasizing the role of love and relationships in sustaining families, communities and cultural continuity. It also highlights how ancestral values and traditions continue to shape social structures, preserve historical narratives and define the identity of a people.

According to the author, Osiri seeks to inspire readers to appreciate the importance of cultural heritage while provoking deeper reflection on the spiritual dimensions of existence and humanity’s connection to its past.

Through its blend of history, culture, spirituality and compelling storytelling, Osiri offers readers an engaging literary experience that celebrates African traditions while raising timeless questions about destiny, identity and the enduring influence of ancestral covenants.

“Osiri is a novel that delves into the intricate connections between a people’s foundation, their ancestors’ covenant with the supernatural and the realms of incarnation and reincarnation.

Exploring themes of love, life death and rebirth, it reflects also the deep-rooted importance of the bond of intimacy.

It also explores the idea that a people’s identity and destiny are tied to their ancestors’ agreement with supernatural forces, preserving historical narratives, cultural practices and social structure and the importance of ancestral heritage.” — Henry Onyema Madubuike

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Akobundu Hails Monday Ubani, SAN, as Legal Icon, Congratulates Him on PhD in Law Conferment

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The Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Senator Austin Akobundu, has described renowned legal luminary, Barr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, SAN, as an icon of justice, a shining light in the legal profession, and a worthy example to generations to come.

Senator Akobundu stated this in his congratulatory message to Dr. Ubani on his conferment of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law by Babcock University at an official ceremony holding today, Tuesday, 22nd July, 2026, at the University’s campus in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State.

He extolled the virtues of perseverance, determination, resilience, and excellence demonstrated by Dr. Ubani, SAN, in the pursuit of this academic height, noting that it sets him apart as an exemplary academic and brilliant lawyer whose advocacy for human rights and a better society has distinguished him in the legal profession.

While praying for God’s continued blessings upon him, Senator Akobundu wished him a successful award ceremony and greater heights in life.

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Abia Governor Alex Otti Pledges Full Support for UTME Star Michael Offorkaile, Who Scored 367

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Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced that the state government will provide support for the further education of Master Michael Offorkaile, the Abia-born student who scored 367 in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), ranking fifth highest nationally.

Governor Otti made the pledge on Monday when he received the high-performing student, his parents, and management of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Oba, Anambra State, at the Government House in Umuahia.

Congratulating the teenager on his exceptional performance, Otti said the state does not take academic excellence for granted and will celebrate its high achievers.

“We don’t take this for granted. The whole idea is to celebrate our own when they do well,” the governor stated. “As a government founded on meritocracy, we will not stop celebrating people who do well.”

Otti directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Emeh Uche, to work out the details of the support package for Offorkaile. He also asked his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr. Dodoh Okafor, to liaise with the student’s parents for necessary follow-up.

The governor encouraged the young scholar to aim even higher in his university education. “JAMB is the little roadblock you have to go through to now start a degree programme of four years. So, having been celebrated because you came first, we expect that you even do better as you go to the university,” he said.

He added: “As a state, we will support you. I believe that the details of the support will be worked out with the Commissioner for Tertiary Education. But I think what is most important is for you to know that your state is behind you.”

Prof. Uche Emeh Uche, who introduced the student, revealed that the governor personally directed her to locate Offorkaile and bring him to the state for proper recognition.

The Principal of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Mr. Ige Bello, and Offorkaile’s father, Mr. Odinaka Offorkaile, from Umunneochi Local Government Area, expressed that they were not surprised by the outstanding result, citing the student’s consistent academic brilliance.

They thanked Governor Otti for the honour and commended his commitment to education and good governance in Abia State.

In his response, Michael Offorkaile thanked the governor for the recognition and described him as a role model.

“I want to thank you for what you have done for me and my family, and also my school today. I will also try my best to keep performing, keep inspiring, and keep encouraging students from Abia and Nigeria,” the top scorer said.

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