Nine Lessons/Carol: Anambra Speaker Expresses Appreciation To Soludo, Staff, Retirees For Dedication, Contribution
By Gloria Abugu
The Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze has expressed appreciation to staff of the House of Assembly and retirees who exited service in 2025, commending their dedication and contributions to the Assembly.
Rt. Hon. Udeze stated this on Thursday during the 2nd Edition of Festival of Nine Lessons and Carol organised by the State Legislature brought together by the Speaker, lawmakers, management and the staff in a solemn celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Udeze paid tribute to departed staff and former members of the House, praying for the repose of their souls, just as he described the retired staff as hardworking and exemplary.
The Speaker made special mention of a retiring staff member, Mr. Joachim Ewuzie, whom he described as exceptionally dedicated, noting that his absence would be deeply felt across the Assembly.
He announced his decision to recall him after retirement to enable him to sustain his livelihood.
Other retirees he appreciated include Mr. Chinedu Okpunaonu and Mr. Andrew Amaechi.
Awards were presented to them as regards their assessment by the Speaker, Clerk and the Deputy clerk of the House of Assembly. Mr. Chinedu Okpunaonu, Best Staff of the year; Mr Joachim Ewuzie, Best Elder Staff of the year; and Mr. Andrew Amaechi; Best Disabled Staff of the year.
The Speaker called for unity and togetherness among staff and members, praying for God’s blessings upon the Anambra State House of Assembly, Ndi Anambra, the Governor, and the legislature.
Rt. Hon. Udeze said that the Assembly had passed over 39 bills into law in 2025, noting that the laws were enacted for the benefit of Ndi Anambra and other proceedings included
He also highlighted ongoing improvements in the Assembly, including the installation of air conditioners in the chambers and enhanced security for members and staff by providing solar light, WiFi in the House for effective work and turning the House of Assembly complex into a standard complex.
According to him, capacity building and staff training would be a top priority in 2026 to further equip workers for effective service.
The Speaker further announced gifting the Tuesday prayers which he introduced a new keyboard for their prayers ,saying that the House would distribute bags of rice and cash tokens to staff, describing the cash token as a first-time initiative under his leadership in order to support their Christmas.
He thanked Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his continuous support to the House, and also appreciated the media for their partnership, describing the media as critical stakeholders in the success of the Assembly.
Earlier, the second Edition of the Nine Lessons and Carol was held at the Assembly premises which featured nine biblical lessons, each followed by Christmas hymns rendered by the carol choir.
Carol of Nine Lessons is a traditional Christian Christmas service that combined nine selected Bible readings (lessons) with Christmas carols and hymns.
The first lesson, which recounts God’s promise in the Garden of Eden that the seed of the woman would bruise the serpent’s head, was read by Hon. Augustine Ike representing Nnewi North constituency.
The second lesson, the prophecy of the birth of Emmanuel, was read by Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, member representing Ekwusigo constituency.
The third lesson, which speaks of the Prince of Peace as foretold by the prophets, was read by Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke representing Aguata 1 constituency
The fourth lesson, from the prophecy of Micah foreseeing the glory of Bethlehem, was read by Barr. Cynthia Idemobi, Deputy Clerk of the Anambra State House of Assembly.
The fifth lesson, the Annunciation, was read by the Clerk of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr. Anthony Emeka Ughenu.
The sixth lesson, which narrates the birth of Jesus Christ, was read by Hon. Noble Igwe representing Ogbaru 1 constituency.
The seventh lesson, describing the angels and heavenly host praising God at the birth of Jesus, was read by Hon. Golden lloh representing lhiala 1 constituency.
The eighth lesson, which recounts the visit of the Magi, was read by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye. representing Awka South II constituency.
The final lesson, taken from the Gospel of St. John on the mystery of the Incarnation, was read by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze representing Ogbaru II constituency.
In their vote of thanks, the Clerk and Deputy Clerk of the House expressed appreciation to members, staff, and the carol choir for the wonderful performances.
The Clerk presented cash token of N50,000 to the Choir as appreciation of their performance and assured of continued invitation to future Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons.
More photos below.
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