Anambra Govt Moves to Address Societal Decline in Values, Civic Responsibilities with ANCISRO

By Ukpa Ewa

Anambra State Government has promised to address the decline of societal values and civic responsibilities with the launch of Anambra State Civic and Social Reformation Office (ANCISRO).

The pledge was made by ANCISRO Managing Director, Sir Chuka Nnabuife, during an outreach program in AWKA on Monday.

Nnabuife who lamented the decrease in communal values and warned of the societal consequences, stressed the importance of law, order and patriotism in achieving a livable and prosperous homeland.

“The way we are going, we cannot achieve a livable and prosperous homeland if we continue without law and order and keep ignoring our civic responsibilities. Anambra ultimate greatness depends on these,” Nnabuife stated.

He noted that societal neglect of laws and civic duties leads to disconnection, alienation and criminal activities. He highlighted Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s foresight in establishing ANCISRO on September 1, 2024, to inspire and instill enduring values among Ndi Anambra.

“ANCISRO seeks to inspire a socio-cultural renaissance that will make Anambra a land of great, happy people. Through education and mobilization, we aim to align citizens and the government for the good of the state,” Nnabuife said.

He described ANCISRO as a social orientation unit within the Governor Office, dedicated to promoting cultural values, indigenous language and civic engagement using communication channels accessible to all.

Speaking on restoring civic virtue Nnabuife decried the fast degeneration of societal values, citing greed, crime and disregard for civic responsibilities as pressing issues. He criticized escapism among the populace, where hunger was often used as an excuse for criminal behavior and called for a revival of communal values.

“Our society values may never have dropped as low as we are witnessing currently. The failure of citizens to perform basic civic duties such as keeping their homes and environments clean or paying taxes, is alarming,” he added.

He further warned that the absence of orderliness and neighborly concern leads to societal disasters, such as the recent stampedes recorded across the country during the Christmas build-up.

Delivering his keynote address, Barr. Akachukwu Mmaduakonam praised the state shared values of hard work, integrity and respect noting that they were critical for societal development.

He commended Governor Soludo free education policy, describing it as a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by the state strategic location as a crossroad for neighboring communities.

“Anambra is uniquely positioned, but this brings both opportunities and challenges. To achieve prosperity, we must harness our shared values and ensure they reflect in our daily lives,” he said. He linked these values to the Christmas season, describing it as a time for reconciliation, sharing, and goodwill.

On his part,a Veteran Journalist Sir Victor Agusiobo called for a collective reorientation effort, stressing the need to address both societal mindsets and physical challenges. He urged ANCISRO to lead by example, particularly within government institutions.

The Deputy Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Anambra State Directorate Mr. Chinedu Okwelogu, emphasized the importance of avoiding societal pitfalls through strategic planning, education and collaboration with the agency.

Similarly, the Managing Director of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), Mr. Mike Ozoemena, encouraged ANCISRO to remain steadfast, expressing optimism about the state future under Governor Soludo leadership.

The establishment of ANCISRO marks a significant step in Soludo administration’s efforts to restore societal values, foster civic responsibility, and create a prosperous and livable Anambra State.