Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has rewarded Nse Empeyoong, a commercial bus driver in Okobo LGA, with a fully furnished three-bedroom bungalow after he kept nearly ₦400,000 found in his bus for 11 months without spending it, despite struggling to support his family.

Empeyoong, a father of four who lives with his family in a leaking thatched house in Okopedi, found the money on December 17, 2025, after conveying passengers from Okobo to Uyo and making trips to Itam Market; he announced the discovery on a radio station, but nobody came forward to claim it.

According to Emmanuel Nicholas, the Governor’s Special Assistant on Media, the driver refused to use the money to repair his faulty bus, which had kept him off the road for about three weeks, and said he had previously returned lost phones and handbags to their owners when he worked as a tricycle operator.

His honesty came to the government’s attention through Nsikan Umoekpo, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Humanitarian Affairs, who confirmed the money remained intact; Nicholas later announced that Eno had approved a bungalow equipped with solar power and portable water, prompting tears of joy from Empeyoong and prayers from his aged father, Emmanuel Ekoeyong Ekong, who also recalled returning excess payments to buyers during his years as a fisherman.

Forget Akwa ibom men are the most nice people we don’t take where we no sow.

UTURU, Abia State — The Management of Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), has suspended Professor Nnamdi Nwaeze of the Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, over concerns surrounding social media posts attributed to him.

According to a press release signed by the university’s Deputy Registrar and Public Relations Officer, Chijioke Nwogu, the posts were considered “inimical to the interests of the University and uncomplimentary to the Visitor of the University.”

The university management has subsequently constituted an Investigative Panel to examine the matter and make appropriate recommendations.

The statement said the suspension takes immediate effect and will remain in place pending the outcome of the panel’s investigation.

The university authorities did not disclose further details about the specific social media posts in the statement.

In commemoration of the 2026 National Police Week, the Imo State Police Command, on Day Three of the celebration, organized a combined sensitization programme on electoral violence and road safety, alongside a medical outreach, in collaboration with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) at Arugo Motor Park, Owerri. The initiative was designed to promote peaceful electoral participation, enhance road safety awareness, and encourage healthy living among motorists and members of the public.

During the sensitization, participants were educated on the dangers of electoral violence, thuggery, and other unlawful acts, and were urged to remain law-abiding. The Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, PSC(+), mnips, encouraged NURTW members to support the Police with timely and actionable intelligence to aid ongoing efforts in combating crime and criminality. He also warned against reckless driving and urged all motorists to strictly obey traffic rules and regulations to safeguard lives and property.

The medical outreach was carried out by the Police Clinic in partnership with Mark of Glory Specialist Hospital and the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Department of the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, led by Consultant Neurosurgeon, Dr. Mark Okhulegbe, and Consultant ENT Surgeon, Dr. Opara Daniel. The team provided health talks and conducted free medical checks, including blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, cholesterol, and eye, ear, and oxygen saturation tests, with referrals made where necessary.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the NURTW, represented by the Secretary, Comrade Charles Oduagu, commended the Command for the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. Also present was the Chairperson of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Imo State Chapter, Hajiya Maryam Bosso, alongside members of the association, who participated in the exercise in solidarity with their husbands and in support of community service initiatives.

The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, PSC(+), mnips, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to the safety, health, and well-being of Ndi Imo, emphasizing that effective policing extends beyond crime prevention to include community engagement and public enlightenment. The Command appreciates all partners and assures Ndi Imo of its continued dedication to people-oriented policing.

DSP Okoye Henry, ANIPR
Police Public Relations Officer
Imo State Command

1st April, 2026

Operatives of the Imo State Police Command have recorded a significant operational success in Orji, with the arrest of a suspected cultist and the recovery of a locally made firearm and other dangerous weapons.The arrest followed a distress call and report lodged by the suspect’s girlfriend, who alleged that her life was under threat.Acting swiftly on the information, operatives attached to the Shell Camp Divisional Headquarters mobilized to the scene, leading to the arrest of one Uzochukwu Wisdom Ikenna, aged 28, from Eziama-Nembe in Oru West Local Government Area.

During the operation, a locally made pistol, one live cartridge, and a battle axe were recovered from the suspect.The suspect has been transferred to Anti-Kidnapping Unit for detailed investigation and will be arraigned in court at the earliest possible time.To this end, the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, PSC(+), mnips, reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents and encourages members of the public to promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

DSP OKOYE HENRY, Anipr
Police Public Relations Officer
Imo State Police Command25th March 2026

‎
‎‎Operatives of the Imo State Police Command, in synergy with the Imo State Security Organization, have recorded another operational success with the arrest of a suspected cultist and recovery of a firearm in Nekede, Owerri West LGA. The arrest followed credible intelligence on suspicious movements along Old Nekede Road in the early hours of March 21, 2026.
‎
‎Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the operatives mobilized to the scene and apprehended one Bright Chidi, a 26-year-old male. Upon search, one locally made single-barrel pistol and one live cartridge were recovered from him.

‎
PPRO Imo State Command, DSP Henry Okoye, Anipr said that ‎during preliminary interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Vikings Confraternity, a cult group linked to violent criminal activities. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for consolidation of investigation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
‎
‎To this end, the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, psc(+), mnips, has ordered a sustained intelligence-led crackdown on criminal elements across the state and urges residents to support the police and other security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance public safety.
‎

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR has approved the appointment of Mrs Chiamaka Nnake as the new Secretary to the State Government of Anambra State

Chiamaka Nnake, MBA, FCCA, is from Nawfia in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State and is a seasoned finance and public sector professional with over 13 years of experience spanning finance, strategy development, and economic planning.

She most recently served as the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning in Anambra State and as Chairman of Solution Fun City Limited.

As Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, she led the effective mobilization, planning, and allocation of state resources to drive socio-economic development. She also held key leadership roles across several state boards and initiatives, including the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency, the Internal Revenue Service Board, and the Small Business Agency.

As the state’s Reform Champion for Ease of Doing Business and focal point for Social Investment Programmes, she continues to champion reforms and inclusive growth. She also serves as Nigeria Chairperson for the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Programme.

Prior to her public service role, Chiamaka was a Senior Strategy Consultant at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Nigeria, where she led over 30 client engagements across local and international markets and sectors including financial services, government and public sector agriculture etc. In recognition of her outstanding performance, she received the CEO Award in 2021.

During her time at PwC, she played a pivotal role in the development of Anambra Vision 2070, a comprehensive 50-year development blueprint for sustainable transformation. She also provided technical support for the Combined Transition Plan, which remains a cornerstone of the current administration’s strategy.

Earlier in her career, she worked as a Business Analyst at IHS Towers, a leading telecommunications infrastructure company across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. She also served as an Equity Research Analyst at Meristem Securities Limited, covering publicly listed pharmaceutical and consumer goods companies on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Chiamaka holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Lagos Business School, where she earned the prestigious Beta Gamma Sigma lifetime recognition for academic excellence. She graduated with First-Class Honours in Accounting from Benson Idahosa University. She is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), a member of the ACCA National Advisory Committee, and has passed Level I of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) programme. She has also completed executive programmes, including the Implementing Public Policy programme at Harvard Kennedy School, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Public Policy.

Chiamaka is 39 years old. She is married and blessed with three children.

Signed:

Christian Aburime
Press Secretary to the Governor

March 23, 2026

Operatives of the Imo State Police Command have today, 11th of March 2026, arrested two suspected armed robbers and recovered a pistol and 7 rounds of live ammunition following a swift response to a distress call in Owerri.

The suspects, Solomon Ejekwe (M), 29, of Ubaha Orodo in Mbaitoli LGA, and Emeka Charles (M), 35, of Umuopara Ngugo in Ikeduru LGA, were apprehended by operatives of the Orji Divisional Headquarters in collaboration with the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

The arrest followed a distress call from members of the public reporting an armed robbery incident at Aladinma, Owerri. Acting promptly on the information, police operatives mobilised to the scene and successfully apprehended the suspects.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim was washing his car at a car wash located at Mangrove, Aladinma, when the suspects approached him, robbed him of his gold chain at gunpoint, and fled the scene on a motorcycle. The victim, however, pursued the suspects in his vehicle and succeeded in knocking them down. They were subsequently overpowered and beaten by an angry mob before police operatives arrived at the scene and took them into custody.

The suspects have been rushed to police medical centre for medical attention and will be arraigned in court with the appropriate criminal charges at the earliest possible time.

The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso psc(+), mnips, commended the prompt response of operatives and cooperation of members of the public, while warning residents against mob action and jungle justice. He urged the public to always allow the law to take its course.

©DSP OKOYE HENRY, Anipr
Police Public Relations Officer
Imo State Police Command

11th March 2026

ANAMBRA NSCDC CONDEMNS STATE APPARATUS’ ENCROACHMENT ON ITS CORE MANDATE….Warns Road Contractors against destruction of fibre optic cables and other critical national assets

The NIgeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Anambra State Command has vowed to step up its regulatory supervision and enforcement as the only Federal Government approved regulatory body on the activities of private guard companies and mining sites.

Commandant Maku Olatunde, the state Commandant of NSCDC stated this on Monday February 16, 2026 at the State Command Headquarters Awka while playing host to Mr. Ofen- Imu Atiba Sunday, the pioneer Zonal Director, of Awka Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC).

According to him, the command is aware of a recent publication circulating on social media and news channels on recent directives by the Special Adviser to the Governor of Community Security mandating Private Guards Companies( PGC) to register with Agunechemba in Anambra State.

The Command therefore urge the populace to disregard such misleading and mischievous information which is an abrogation of the act establishing Private Guards Companies, potentially undermining the legal framework for PGC operations.

The NSCDC restates that the registration and licensing, training, monitoring and regulation of Private Guards Companies (PGCs) fall exclusively under the purview of NSCDC, as mandated by the NSCDC Act 2003 (as amended). Also, it is due to the afore mentioned roles that NSCDC is saddled with the onerous responsibility of generating revenue to Federal Government. No agency, including Agunechemba State Security Squad, can regulate or force PGCs to re-register with them.

Regarding operational modalities, we emphasize that PGCs are not authorized to operate contrary to the enabling laws. Any group luring PGCs to register, document, and be regulated by any security agency other than Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps does so in contrast with the law. NSCDC will not be party to any arrangement that compromises national security or contravene existing laws, and would not permit such.

The Command also condemn the attitude of some agencies shutting down mining sites in Anambra State in the form of enforcement. NSCDC reiterates that, in line with the Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, it was saddled with the responsibility of conducting Operational Surveillance routine, and enforcement on mining sites, an essential role in safeguarding the integrity of the nation’s mining sector.

The primary objective according to the NSCDC State boss is to ensure mining activities are conducted legally and ethically, protecting the is sector from economic sabotage, illegal mining, and other activities that could harm the national, state and local economy.

The Command cautions intending miners who are in the process of registering to cease operating, as that has not given them the right to start operating.

The Command warns road construction companies and contractors against the destruction of fibre-optic cables and other critical national assets during excavation and construction activities. This is in strict compliance with the directive of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) on the protection of telecommunication facilities nationwide.

The Command warns that destruction of these assets poses threats to public safety, economic stability, and national security, and offenders would be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted under extant laws.

The Command assures Anambra residents it will continue to support State Government’s desire to proceed with the rejig and revamped Anti-sit-at-home order and confidence-building operations on Mondays, initially reawaken by the command two years ago. This aims to protect all banking facilities, parks, markets, and critical national assets and infrastructure across the state.

The Command assures the state government, Ndi Anambra, and the general populace that it shall not disappoint in promoting the standards of living of the citizens through a more secured Anambra State, in line with the Renewed Hope Mandate of Mr. President.

Members of the public are enjoined to report suspicious excavation activities or vandalism of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure to the nearest NSCDC formations.

SC OKADIGBO EDWIN
Head Media and Tactical Ops NSCDC Anambra State Command
For: State Commandant

According to an Anadolu English report of Saturday 14 of February 2026, long‑range United States (U.S.) military aircraft, including B‑2 stealth bombers, have been placed on a heightened alert status as the Pentagon continues to deploy forces across the Middle East.

A senior U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity alleged that the increased readiness of the bombers was ordered nearly a month ago.

The B‑2s, which are based in the US, remain capable of conducting strikes on Iranian nuclear or ballistic missile targets if President Donald Trump decides that diplomatic efforts have failed and military action is necessary.

Mr. Trump warned last month that Washington could carry out military strikes “if it refused to agree to curb its nuclear programme.” Senior national security officials urged the president to wait until U.S. forces in the region were better postured both offensively and defensively.

U.S. commanders say that the roughly 30,000 to 40,000 American troops stationed at multiple bases in the Middle East required more air defences to protect against possible retaliation.

At sea, the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group leads naval forces deployed in the Arabian Sea, the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea and the eastern Mediterranean. The carrier’s F‑35 fighters and F/A‑18 attack jets are within range of Iranian targets, and Washington has also sent additional F‑15E aircraft to the area.

Military analysts note that increases in aerial refueling tankers and the deployment of EA‑18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft often accompany preparations for large operations. These Growlers are aboard the Lincoln, and U.S. Central Command has recently flown some to a base in Jordan. Trackers also indicate that refueling and reconnaissance planes are moving closer to the theatre.

Another sign of potential offensive planning would be repositioning a ballistic missile submarine so it could launch Tomahawk cruise missiles at targets inside Iran. Such a move would require the vessel to surface through the Suez Canal, making it visible to observers — but this has not yet occurred, according to the report

White House spokesperson, Anna Kelly, said that President Trump “has all options on the table with regard to Iran,” and that the president would make decisions based on U.S. national security interests.

Iran maintains its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes, and U.S. officials described the military buildup as a measure to ensure readiness and deter reprisal if negotiations collapse.

©Newscrower

Tears as 15 Traders from Umuahia Die in Auto Crash Returning from Traditional Marriage in Enugu

There is wailing and deep sorrow in Umuahia today Sunday 15th February 2026 following the tragic death of 15 traders who reportedly lost their lives in a fatal road accident while returning from a traditional marriage ceremony in Enugu State.

According to available information, the victims, some of whom are said to be traders operating along Bonny Street in Umuahia, had travelled to Enugu to honour the marriage rites of a colleague. Sadly, their journey back home turned disastrous when their vehicle was involved in a ghastly accident.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the crash occurred while the group was en route to Umuahia, leaving several passengers dead on the spot. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be officially confirmed as at the time of filing this report.

A few survivors who sustained varying degrees of injuries were immediately rescued and rushed to the Federal Medical Centre Umuahia for urgent medical attention. Hospital sources confirm that the injured victims are currently receiving treatment.

The incident has thrown Bonny Street and the wider Umuahia business community into mourning, as colleagues and family members struggle to come to terms with the sudden and devastating loss.

© Promise Uzoma Okoro

Nigerian army has discovered and destroyed an IEDs in a forest in Abia State and consequently destroyed it.

According to Promise Uzoma Okoro, this was contained in a release by Acting Assistant director army public relations.

As part of intensified efforts to curb the criminal activities of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), troops of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, have recorded a significant operational success under ongoing shaping operations ahead of Operation EASTERN SANITY.

On 8 February 2026, at about 9:00 a.m., troops of the Brigade, while conducting clearance operations along the Umuchinma pipeline route leading into the forest, discovered two Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) strategically planted by suspected IPOB/ESN elements.

The IEDs were locally fabricated using 5kg gas cylinders, nails, water-gel explosives, two detonators, and electrical cables, indicating deliberate intent to inflict casualties on security personnel and civilians.

Further exploitation of the area led to the recovery of four empty cartridge cases and two bags containing nails, suspected to be materials for further IED construction. Troops also successfully cleared a camp belonging to the criminal elements operating within the forest enclave.

The operational success followed credible intelligence provided by a suspect currently under investigation, who had earlier confessed to being a subject-matter expert in the criminal network.

Reacting to the development, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General A. M. Dikko, expressed satisfaction with the professionalism, resilience, and doggedness displayed by the troops, assuring that further exploitation of the Umuchinma Forest is ongoing to flush out remaining criminal elements.

The general security situation within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility remains calm but unpredictable, as troops continue to maintain maximum vigilance. Troop morale and fighting efficiency, the Brigade noted, remain high and satisfactory.

⸻

Signed:
MAZINHO ATTAH
Captain
Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations
14 Brigade, Nigerian Army
Ohafia, Abia State

Imo Governorship hopeful in the next gubernatorial election in the state, Mazi Chima Amadi popularly known as Mazi Gburugburu worshipped with the Assemblies of God Church, Owerri East District, during their 2026 Mega Fellowship, themed “Living in Dominion.”

The fellowship, which marks the church’s annual beginning-of-the-year prayer programme, was the 16th edition of the event as it recorded an attendance of over 2,000 faithfuls and visitors who gathered to seek God’s presence and direction for the year.

The service featured a powerful time of worship led by Bro. Cornelius Benjamin, alongside other guest ministers, ushering the congregation into an atmosphere of God’s glory.

The District Superintendent, Rev. Dr. Okechukwu Esom, together with his team of presbyters, warmly welcomed the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Nigeria, Rev. A. I. Amadi, who ministered under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit on the theme “Living in Dominion.”

He emphasized that God’s original will from creation is for humanity to dominate and rule over all creatures. He also offered prophetic prayers, declaring that participants would walk in total dominion throughout the year.

Dr. Chima Amadi represented by his Director General, Hon. Henry Onwukwe. who attended the fellowship to worship and seek prayers concerning his aspiration to become the next Governor of Imo State in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state.

Special prayers were offered for him by the District Superintendent.[gallery columns.

The Director-General of the Imo State governorship aspirant, Chima Amadi, Hon. Henry Onwukwe, on Sunday, January 11, 2026 joined worshippers at the Assemblies of God Church, Owerri East District, during the district’s Mega Worship Programme themed “Living in Dominion,” where he represented his principal and sought the prayers of the congregation.

Hon. Onwukwe, who addressed the church on behalf of Amadi, conveyed the goodwill of the governorship hopeful to members of the church and thanked the leadership of the district for the opportunity to fellowship with them.

Speaking during the service, the Director-General described the governorship ambition of Chima Amadi as a mission driven by service to God and humanity, adding that the campaign would be anchored on integrity, humility and commitment to the development of Imo State.

He however promised to always identify with the district in person going forward, noting that Chima Amadi loves the gathering and the things of God, hence his resolve to continually commit to the work of God.

Hon. Onwukwe further appealed to the congregation to continually remember the aspiration in their prayers, noting that leadership is a call to service that requires divine guidance.

The clergy and members of the church later prayed for Chima Amadi and his team, asking God to grant them wisdom, direction and favour as the political process unfolds in the state.

All is set for the funeral of late Mrs Justina Adaezi Akaraonye Diamond mother (Nee Nkah) on Saturday December 27, 2025 at her husband’s compound Umuezealambra Obodo Amaimo after a funeral church service at St Columba’s Catholic Church Amaimo at 10am.

Late Mama Justina Akaraonye; aged 93, according to testimonies from family and friends lived a hardworking, truthful and exemplary life.

Until her demise, late Mama Justina Adaeze Akaraonye was a woman leader of repute both in the community and church where she mentored generations on the way to go hence the recognition as a “Golden Mother”

According to the family, there will be Night of Tributes on 26th December from 6pm till dawn.

She is survived by Nine (9) children including Chief Chris Akaraonye; the immediate past Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Imo State Council and Dr James Akaraonye, Secretary Academic Staff Union of Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Five (5) Daughter -inlaws and Three (3) Son -inlaws, Twenty-nine (29) Grand Children, Two (2) Great Grand Children and a host of other relations.

The family request friends of the family to join them as the bid their mother farewell.

[Abuja, Nigeria, December 16, 2025]
FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has been notified of an accident involving a Cessna 172 aircraft, with nationality and registration marks 5N-ASR, operated by Skypower Express. The occurrence took place today, around 20:00 hours local time at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State

The aircraft was originally en route from Kaduna International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew declared an emergency, necessitating a diversion to Owerri. The aircraft subsequently crashed in the approach area of Runway 17. There were four people on board at the time of the accident, with no fatalities reported so far.

Following the occurrence, airport emergency services were successfully activated and arrived on site promptly. Reports indicate that there was no post-crash fire, and the runway remains active for flight operations, with other aircraft taking off safely after the incident.

Efforts are currently underway to coordinate the recovery and evacuation of the distressed aircraft from the crash site to allow for a detailed wreckage examination.
The NSIB has officially activated its protocols in accordance with its mandate.

Speaking on the accident, the Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., stated, “We express our deepest sympathies to the management of Skypower Express and are glad that no fatalities have been reported so far. The NSIB has activated its protocols, and our team is already coordinating with authorities to secure the site.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji
Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance,
Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau

.

D-Net News | December 3, 2025

Chief Success Akagburuonye, Imo State governorship hopeful and National President of Hoperising for Imolites, has inaugurated a planning committee ahead of his 60th birthday and book launch celebration. The inauguration ceremony took place at Ogbor Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.

Speaking during the event, Chief Akagburuonye urged the committee members to work collaboratively to ensure a hitch-free and memorable celebration. He emphasized the significance of the upcoming occasion, noting that it is primarily aimed at expressing gratitude to God for His abundant mercies upon him and his family.

He tasked the committee to maintain effective communication within the group and with external stakeholders who may wish to participate in the event.

In addition to the committee inauguration, Chief Akagburuonye commissioned the Lion of Judah Security Outfit, made up of 60 personnel, charging them to carry out their duties with diligence and integrity.

Chairman of the Birthday and Book Launch Committee, Chief Eddy Obinna—former member representing Aboh Mbaise in the Imo State House of Assembly—encouraged members to give their best to ensure a successful celebration.

The ceremony ended with prayers for God’s protection upon Chief Akagburuonye and all participants.

As the world commemorates World AIDS Day 2025, the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Imo State Branch, has renewed its call for stronger HIV testing services, improved community engagement, and sustained investment in quality laboratory systems. This year’s theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” highlights the need to rebuild HIV services affected by social and economic challenges.

Speaking in Owerri, the AMLSN Imo Branch Chairman and Quality Management System Expert, Chijioke Obinna, noted that disruptions in healthcare delivery have slowed progress in HIV prevention and treatment. He stressed that early diagnosis, reliable laboratory services, and continuous viral load monitoring remain critical to revitalizing the HIV response.

Obinna reaffirmed the central role of Medical Laboratory Scientists in combating HIV/AIDS, emphasizing their contributions in diagnosis, treatment monitoring, drug-resistance detection, and public health surveillance. He identified priority areas for Imo State, including expanding access to quality-assured HIV testing across all LGAs and improving viral load testing and early diagnosis.

He also underscored the importance of promoting ISO 15189–aligned laboratory quality systems, stating that accurate results rely on strong infrastructure, well-trained personnel, and continuous quality improvement. Obinna further called for intensified efforts to eliminate stigma, describing it as a major barrier preventing individuals from seeking care.

The AMLSN Chairman encouraged stronger collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, donors, and international partners to enhance HIV services in the state. He commended Medical Laboratory Scientists for their steadfast dedication to providing essential HIV diagnostic services despite systemic disruptions.

As Nigeria pushes toward eliminating AIDS as a public health threat, AMLSN Imo State urges residents to get tested, know their HIV status, support persons living with HIV, advocate for quality laboratory services, and stand firmly against stigma.

By Nelson Uloma Egondu

Preface

In 2021, I embarked on a journey that would reshape not only my academic path but also my vision of education, equity, and technology. This book shares my life experiences as a researcher, educator, and leader, with a focus on inclusive education and AI-driven solutions. It is written for both disabled and non-disabled students—because none of us is better than all of us.

Chapter 1: The Power of Collective Strength

Meaning of the phrase “None of us is better than all of us”.

My background: experiences as a woman in education and computer science.

Early challenges faced by students with disabilities in classrooms.

How my life experiences shaped a belief that inclusive progress is shared progress.

Chapter 2: 2021—The Turning Point

My academic and professional experiences at NMHU in 2021.

The challenges faced by struggling learners I supported.

Discovering the limitations of traditional teaching models.

Spark of research interest: how could AI provide new opportunities?

Chapter 3: Research Endeavors in Inclusive Education

Exploration of machine learning and reinforcement learning.

Designing research for students with disabilities.

Goals: building models that personalize learning paths.

How my research addresses equity gaps highlighted in New Mexico schools.

Integration of multicultural and legal perspectives (Martinez/Yazzie lawsuit, NM School Finance Act).

Chapter 4: Bridging Disabled and Non-Disabled Learners

Case studies: classrooms with mixed learning abilities.

Creating adaptive content delivery (e.g., text-to-speech, visual aids, AI tutors).

Research on peer mentoring and collaborative learning.

Principles: empathy, accessibility, and equity.

Chapter 5: The Goal I Want to Solve

The problem statement:

Struggling learners (disabled or otherwise) are left behind due to rigid systems.

Limited technology integration in underserved schools.

The goal:

Build AI-driven, culturally responsive solutions that adapt to individual learners.

Empower educators with tools, not replacements.

Reduce dropouts and increase confidence among marginalized students.

Chapter 6: The Research Mode and Model

Methodology of my work:

Literature review in inclusive education and AI.

Experimental frameworks using Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch.

Collaboration with teachers, administrators, and communities.

Proposed model:

AI-driven Reinforcement Learning Classroom Support System (RL-CSS).

Personalized feedback loops.

Integration with existing curricula.

Chapter 7: Stories of Resilience

Narratives of students with disabilities I worked with.

Examples where adaptive tools made a difference.

How non-disabled peers benefited equally from inclusivity.

Lessons learned: humility, patience, and teamwork.

Chapter 8: Leadership, Equity, and Democracy in Education

My philosophy of leadership: “True leadership uplifts—it never intimidates.”

Role of equity in education: access for all learners.

Democracy in classrooms: giving every voice value.

How inclusive education models prepare students for civic and professional life.

Chapter 9: Future Directions

The global implications of inclusive AI research.

Policy recommendations for universities and K–12 schools.

Building cross-cultural, international collaborations.

How my future research will continue this journey.

Chapter 10: Call to Action

To disabled students: Your abilities are not defined by your limitations.

To non-disabled students: Your strength grows when you lift others up.

To educators: Technology is a bridge, not a barrier.

To policymakers: Invest in inclusive technology to build equity for generations.

Conclusion

The journey of my life and research since 2021 proves that no individual achievement compares to collective success. We thrive not in isolation but together. None of us is better than all of us.

References

(Academic references to AI in education, inclusive pedagogy, NMHU research, Martinez/Yazzie case, AI ethics, etc.)