Anambra Weekly

NNEWI WILL RECLAIM ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE AS PREMIER INDUSTRIAL NERVE CENTER', SAYS SOLUDO

By Christian ABURIME

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has signaled a strategic shift in his administration’s urban renewal agenda, launching an aggressive inspection tour of Nnewi aimed at reclaiming dormant public assets and injecting new life into the state’s industrial heartbeat.

The tour, which spanned several critical sectors of the city, served as a diagnostic mission to identify infrastructure bottlenecks that have long stifled Nnewi’s commercial potential. By targeting neglected sites and underutilized land, the Governor intends to transform the city into a modern, high-functioning urban center.

The most prominent stop on the Governor's itinerary was the Nkwo Nnewi Triangle, home to a shopping complex that has remained a shell of unfulfilled promise for 17 years. Standing before the structure, Governor Soludo expressed frustration at the protracted stagnation.

"It is unacceptable that public assets intended to drive commerce have been left to rot for nearly two decades," Governor Soludo remarked. "We are here to draw a line in the sand. This facility will no longer be a monument to neglect; we are moving swiftly to restore it to productive use to serve the people of Nnewi."

Beyond the shopping mall, the Governor inspected the Post Office vicinity and high court premises. His vision involves integrating these legacy sites into a cohesive, contemporary urban plan that enhances accessibility and elevates the standards of public service.

Furthermore, the Governor scouted locations for strategic housing developments. Officials noted that providing high-quality residential infrastructure is essential to sustaining Nnewi’s expanding workforce and maintaining its competitive edge as a commercial hub.

Governor Soludo articulated a broader vision for the city, emphasizing that his administration is aggressively mapping out underutilized open spaces. The goal is to repurpose it for public parks, recreational areas, and new commercial ventures.

"Our strategy is simple: we are unlocking the hidden value of Nnewi," the Governor explained during a brief interaction with local stakeholders. "By converting dormant open spaces into vibrant public parks and productive facilities, we are not just fixing buildings—we are stimulating local commerce and reclaiming Nnewi’s rightful place as the premier industrial nerve center of the region."

The inspection concluded with the Governor signaling that tangible construction and redevelopment efforts are slated to begin in the coming weeks.

The Commissioner for Works, Arch. Okey Ezeobi, Commissioner for Housing, Architect Henry Arinze, Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Clem Aguiyi, Mayors of Nnewi South, Nnewi North and Ekwusigo, among others, accompanied the Governor to the visit.

SOLUDO ASSERTS INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE AT ANGLICAN DIOCESAN SYNOD

By Christian ABURIME

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to inclusive governance, declaring that he serves as a governor for all residents of the state, regardless of their religious or traditional affiliations.

Governor Soludo made this declaration while addressing the Anglican Diocesan Synod held in Ezira, Orumba South Local Government Area.

Expressing gratitude to the citizenry for their support during the last gubernatorial election, the Governor emphasized that his mandate transcends sectarian boundaries.

"I am the Governor of all denominations, Christians, Moslems, and traditionalists," Soludo stated. "Everyone has the freedom of worship in Anambra. We are all one, and we must celebrate our common humanity."

Reflecting on the current state of the world, the Governor warned against divisions, noting that humanity is currently under significant threat. He urged citizens to prioritize their shared human identity, expressing concern over the growing fragmentation he observed even within Christendom.

Governor Soludo articulated a clear vision for his administration’s recruitment policy, asserting that competence is the sole criterion for public service appointments.

"For me, it is about the value proposition you bring to the table," he explained. "Most of the people I have appointed are chosen because they can get the job done.

The Governor further called for patience from the people of Anambra as his administration continues to work toward delivering its developmental agenda, reiterating, "Whoever can get the job done is the person I will hire."

The Governor also commended the church for a new nursing school in Isulo. He framed such efforts as vital contributions to the state’s progress.

"We are building our own institutions, but I encourage you to invest more in education and health. It can never be enough," Governor Soludo remarked. He advised religious leaders to be mindful of the economic realities of their parishioners, urging them to align development projects with the "paying capacity" of the people.

Earlier, the Anglican Bishop of Aguata, Right Reverend Samuel Ezeofor commended the Governor’s development efforts, while seeking for support, with assurance of continuous prayers by the church.

The event served as a platform for the Governor to solidify his message of unity, merit-based governance, and a collaborative approach to the socio-economic development of Anambra State.

SOLUDO CALLS FOR INTELLECTUAL DEBATE ON THE "IGBO QUESTION," ADVOCATES FOR STRUCTURED NATIONAL DIALOGUE

By Christian ABURIME

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State has issued a passionate call for a structured, intellectual interrogation of the "Igbo question" in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to move away from agitation and toward robust, empirical debate.

The Governor made these remarks at the Light House in Awka following a compelling stage performance titled "The Tale of Two Nnamdis", written by Tobe Osigwe and directed by Prof. Uche Nwaozuzu. The play was presented by students of the Theatre Arts and Film Department, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

Reflecting on the performance, Governor Soludo praised the students for spearheading a conversation that he believes has been largely absent from the academic and political discourse for too long.

Governor Soludo expressed concern over the lack of structured intellectual engagement regarding the challenges facing the Igbo people and their position within the Nigerian state. He commended the students for spearheading the debate

"I was at UNN last month—I recalled that Biafran war was literally declared there. "I am glad that you people are now leading the way. That conversation must begin in a very structured manner."

The Governor cautioned against the methods of past agitations, particularly the "sit-at-home" syndrome that persisted for five years. He noted that such tactics often inflict harm upon the very people the agitators claim to support.

Drawing from his personal history, the Governor shared the trauma of the Civil War, recalling that his mother died during the conflict and his father carried a bullet for 11 years following the war.

"I saw the war very clearly," Soludo said. "I am a Pan-Africanist and a proud Nigerian. Ndị Igbo need Nigerians, Nigerians need ndị Igbo, same for the world. Our prosperity will accelerate if we take advantage of a wider space."

He emphasized that while he respects diverse convictions, he remains a strong advocate for bargaining and civil discourse, citing the political legacy of Nnamdi Azikiwe. "Zik helped us; he bargained in the First and Second Republics. He taught us the politics of bargaining."

Governor Soludo challenged the Igbo populace to address what he termed a "dual personality" paradox regarding their participation in national politics. He questioned the viability of seeking the presidency while simultaneously expressing deep reservations about the Nigerian project.

"It is true that Ndi Igbo want the presidency, but the paradox has to be addressed," he noted. "As a people, where do we stand? How can you govern a people who don't know your stand?"

The Governor reiterated his readiness to participate in a structured, civil dialogue, expressing a desire to engage directly with diverse groups, including the faction led by Nnamdi Kanu.

He concluded by stressing the importance of tolerance for counter-narratives and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting any group that advances the discussion in a civil, intellectual manner.

"Any group that advances the conversation of the Igbo question in Nigeria will have our support. The beauty of our republican nature is that you cannot muscle your way through it—you must engage."

Governor Soludo and his wife, Nonye Soludo, graced the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration held at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka.

27 May 2026

GOVERNOR SOLUDO MARKS 2026 NATIONAL CHILDREN'S DAY WITH ANAMBRA CHILDREN

By Christian ABURIME

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, today joined thousands of children, parents, and stakeholders at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka to commemorate the 2026 National Children’s Day Celebration.

The event, themed "Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child," served as a powerful call to action for the protection, education, and holistic development of the younger generation.

Representing His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Soludo delivered the presidential address to the nation's children. Standing before the assembly on behalf of the President, Governor Soludo emphasized that the strength of Nigeria’s future relies entirely on the deliberate choices made for its children today.

"Inclusion must be the moral foundation of national development," Governor Soludo stated while channeling the President's national vision. "Every single Nigerian child deserves the dignity of belonging, regardless of their background, gender, or physical ability."

Speaking on the federal framework, the Governor conveyed President Tinubu’s assurance that the current administration is actively listening more attentively to the voices, opinions, and aspirations of children. He re-emphasized a national commitment to building an inclusive governance structure that accounts for the inputs of children, ultimately shaping their lives and steering the destiny of the country toward sustainable growth.

Governor Soludo further noted from the presidential speech that social development must remain at the very center of national advancement. However, he maintained that government action alone is insufficient, reminding the public that a child's development cannot be separated from the stability, morals, and safety of the home.

Governor Soludo enthusiastically celebrated Anambra's children, declaring that the narrative of tomorrow must be rewritten because "the future is now."

He reiterated his administration's "Solution" mandate, which ensures that no child in Anambra State is marginalized or left behind. The Governor highlighted the state’s massive strides in providing quality, accessible education and structured social safety nets designed to give vulnerable children and children living with disabilities an equal playing field.

Earlier in the ceremony, the Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Esther Chinyere Onyekesi, delivered a comprehensive welcome address.

Mrs Onyekesi extended a warm welcome to the global and local community on behalf of the visionary leadership of Governor Soludo. She took the opportunity to highly commend Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the Wife of the Governor, for her relentless contributions through the Ministry and the Nonye Soludo Healthy Living Initiative, which has drastically improved the welfare, nutrition, and well-being of children across the state.

Reaffirming the timely nature of the 2026 theme, the Commissioner outlined the ministry's strict stance against societal ills, stamping out child abuse, child trafficking, child labor, and street hawking by minors, inter-Agency Collaboration, among others.

Turning her attention to the parade ground, Mrs. Onyekesi addressed the children directly:

"Today is your day. You are intelligent, creative, resilient, and full of promise. Do not allow negative influences to distract you from your dreams. Anambra State is counting on you to become our future leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens."

The historic celebration at the Alex Ekwueme Square featured a colorful march-past by various schools across the state, and specialized presentations by children’s groups.

The event was attended by Wife of the Governor, Dr.(Mrs) Nonye Soludo, Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim and wife, State Executive Council members, among others.

PRESS STATEMENT

GOVERNOR SOLUDO CONGRATULATES MUSLIM UMMAH ON EID EL KABIR, CALLS FOR PRAYERS FOR PEACE AND PROGRESS

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has conveyed his earnest felicitations to the entire Muslim Ummah in Anambra State and all over Nigeria on the festive occasion of Eid el Kabir.

In his goodwill message, Governor Soludo reflected that Sallah festival universally holds profound significance, reminding us of the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, and untiring commitment to divine will and the common good of humanity.

Governor Soludo urged all Muslim faithful to leverage the spiritual essence of this period to offer prayers for enduring peace, unity, and accelerated progress in our nation. He emphasized the importance of sharing feasts, extending acts of charity, and fostering mutual tolerance and peaceful coexistence among all citizens, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.

The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Anambra State, and to creating an environment where every citizen can celebrate in peace in this season and beyond.

Thus, Governor Soludo warmly wishes all Muslims happy Barka da Sallah celebrations, praying that the blessings of this season fill everyone’s homes with bliss, peace, and prosperity.

Signed:

Christian Aburime
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

May 27, 2026