Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, has launched a major urban renewal drive in Nnewi, revamping neglected public assets and critical infrastructure to reinforce the city’s position as a leading industrial and commercial hub.
During an inspection tour of key locations across the city, the governor assessed neglected public facilities and strategic development sites earmarked for redevelopment under the state government’s urban modernization programme.
A major focus of the visit was the abandoned shopping complex at Nkwo Nnewi Triangle, one of the city’s busiest commercial districts. The facility, which has remained unused for about 17 years, was identified as a priority project for rehabilitation and economic revitalization.
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Addressing stakeholders during the tour, Soludo expressed concern over the prolonged neglect of public infrastructure and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring dormant assets to productive use.
“It is unacceptable that public assets intended to drive commerce have been left to deteriorate for nearly two decades,” the governor said. “This facility will no longer remain a symbol of neglect. We are taking steps to ensure it serves the economic interests of the people once again.”
The governor also inspected the Post Office precinct and the High Court area, directing relevant agencies to develop plans for their integration into a broader urban renewal framework aimed at improving accessibility, public service delivery and overall city infrastructure.
As part of the initiative, Soludo visited proposed housing development sites, stressing the need to expand residential infrastructure to meet the demands of Nnewi’s growing population and workforce.
Government officials said the administration is identifying underutilized public land across the city for possible conversion into parks, recreational facilities and commercial developments intended to improve urban livability and stimulate economic activity.
“Our strategy is to unlock the hidden value of Nnewi by transforming abandoned and underutilized spaces into productive assets. We are creating opportunities for business growth, improving the urban environment and reinforcing Nnewi’s position as a major industrial and commercial centre.” Soludo said.
The inspection tour ended with assurances from the government that redevelopment and construction activities would commence in the coming weeks.
The governor was accompanied by the Commissioner for Works, Okey Ezeobi; Commissioner for Housing, Henry Arinze; Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odimegwu; and the mayors of Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo local government areas, among other senior government officials.
