He said participants would observe the fast daily from 6:00a.m. to 3.00p.m., adding that the programme would climax with a solemn assembly and covenant renewal service scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 2026.
Prince Kanu further announced that Abia State would host the 2026 edition of World Igbo Day on September 28 and 29, 2026. He said the event would provide a platform for Ndigbo to come together and reflect on their unity of purpose, shared identity and contributions to the development of Alaigbo.
According to him, the event which has its theme as “Njikọ Aka” has activities lined up that includes; a keynote lecture titled “Igbo Charter and the Development of Alaigbo,” the laying of wreaths in honour of fallen Igbo heroes and heroines, an interdenominational church service, a march-past by participating state delegations, traditional dances, as well as speeches by South-East Governors and notable Igbo leaders expected at the event.
On diphtheria prevention and control, Prince Kanu said the focus of the advisory of the State Ministry of Health for this week is to strengthen preparedness and preventive measures against the disease, following reports of outbreaks in some parts of the country.
He disclosed that Abia State has recorded no case of diphtheria, and no case of any public health concern, adding that the State Public Health Department had instituted an outbreak prevention and preparedness plan.
The Commissioner for Health Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma were present at the press briefing.
