The Anambra State government in Southeast Nigeria has marked its 34th anniversary, with Governor Charles Soludo reaffirming his administration’s commitment to long-term structural development.
The Governor highlighted priorities including agriculture, infrastructure, security, education, and healthcare, stressing that his government aims to focus on sustainable progress rather than short-term populism.
Speaking to the press in Awka during the commemorative events, Governor Soludo said Anambra is on the path to becoming “a livable and prosperous smart megacity.”
He described the concept of “genuine stomach infrastructure,” which prioritises equitable access to essential services over cash handouts or political appointments, aiming to genuinely improve living standards across the state.
He said; “Stomach infrastructure is not about giving handouts or distributing money. It is about fulfilling the government’s obligation to provide essential services that improve citizens’ livelihoods, education, healthcare, jobs, roads, and security.”
Highlighting his administration’s achievements, Governor Soludo noted that over 2.6 million palm and coconut seedlings have been distributed to 180,000 households under an agricultural revitalisation programme. Additionally, the state has recruited over 1,000 health workers and 8,115 teachers, while public school education and maternal care services remain free.
Infrastructure milestones include; the commissioning of over 600 kilometres of roads out of a targeted 800 kilometres, alongside youth empowerment programmes that have benefited more than 5,000 participants, with another 8,000 set to graduate.
“Deploying public resources to create societal value is far more impactful than simply dashing money
“This is the foundation on which we’re building the Anambra of our dreams, one of hard work, dignity, and integrity,” the Governor said.
In a significant security development, he announced that more than 60 criminal camps across 10 troubled local government areas had been dismantled, thanks to coordinated efforts with local security units, the police, army, and federal agencies. Affected regions include Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba North and South, Ayamelum, Ogbaru, Awka North, and Aguata.
Governor Soludo said; “Before now, criminals held entire local governments hostage. But today, they cannot operate freely in Anambra. Security is foundational to every other development goal, and we are taking it seriously.”
He cautioned political opponents against politicising security challenges, particularly ahead of the November 2025 gubernatorial elections, warning that such actions could endanger public safety.
Reflecting on the state’s history since its creation in 1991 by former military president General Ibrahim Babangida, Governor Soludo praised Anambra’s founding fathers and past leaders for laying the groundwork for progress.
He said; “From Navy Capt. Joseph Abulu, our first military administrator, to Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, our first civilian governor, and my immediate predecessor, Chief Willie Obiano, Anambra has steadily moved forward.”
The state leader reiterated the administration’s commitment to the long-term Anambra Vision 2070 Plan, a 50-year blueprint positioning the state as a hub for economic growth, innovation, and talent development within Nigeria and beyond.
“This is not just a celebration. It’s a rededication to a journey that continues. What we’ve built in three years is a solid foundation for the future
“Let us build this homeland together, not just as a place we come from, but as a destination for opportunity and growth.” Governor Soludo declared.
He also highlighted Anambra’s contribution to Nigeria’s human capital: “Despite being one of Nigeria’s smallest states by landmass, Anambra continues to punch above its weight, producing some of the country’s most prominent entrepreneurs, academics, and political figures.”
Call for unity
Governor Soludo called on citizens and stakeholders to remain united in pursuit of progress, pledging to continue serving as a “humble servant” of the people.
“Happy 34th anniversary to our beloved Anambra State. May the Light of the Nation continue to shine ever brighter,” Governor Charles Soludo added.
PIAK