As part of efforts to transform Anambra State into a regional economic hub, the Anambra State Governor, Prof Charles Soludo, has officially unveiled the completed Anambra Railway Master Plan—a bold infrastructural blueprint designed to revolutionise transportation and fast-track industrialisation across the Southeast.
Governor Soludo announced this at a high-level business roundtable convened at the International Convention Centre in Awka, the state capital, to discuss ongoing business-enabling reforms under his administration.
Organized by the Anambra Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) Council, the event brought together key stakeholders, including industrialists, investors, government officials, traditional rulers, and private sector leaders to engage in the state’s economic vision.
The railway master plan, developed in collaboration with Canadian consultancy firm CPCS, is part of a broader effort by the Soludo administration to reposition Anambra as Nigeria’s new industrial frontier.
The Governor emphasised that the railway initiative, alongside other reforms, will reduce logistics costs, unlock new economic corridors, and significantly enhance investor confidence.
“We are working out the financing modalities now. This railway will be a game changer for Anambra.
The best time to have done it was years ago. The second-best time is now, and we are seizing that opportunity,” Soludo declared.
Strategic Land Development and Business Reforms
Governor Soludo also disclosed that over 5,000 hectares of land have been acquired across Ogborji, Aguluezechukwu, and nearby communities for industrial expansion. He noted that the process has been streamlined, digitized, and will soon be open to investors under transparent terms.
The roundtable served as a key touchpoint for reviewing the state’s business climate.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Industry, Mr Christian Udechukwu, hailed Soludo’s reforms in infrastructure, digital governance, and investor engagement, which have collectively improved Anambra’s competitiveness.
“This is a strategic convergence to foster public-private synergy. Governor Soludo’s drive is not only changing the landscape but making Anambra a destination rather than a departure point,” Udechukwu said.
Supporting these remarks, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, stated that Anambra now ranks number one in the southern region for ease of doing business—a testament to the Governor’s proactive reforms.
She listed the EoDB Council’s ten reform priorities, including land registration, tax simplification, infrastructure investment, and commercial dispute resolution.
“We’re creating a more transparent, efficient environment for business,” Nnake said, adding that the roundtable aimed to gather direct feedback from the business community to fine-tune existing policies.
Stakeholders Applaud Progress, Raise Concerns
A cross-section of stakeholders expressed both praise and constructive concerns during the interactive session.
Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, a prominent businessman, lauded the Governor for prudent use of public funds and infrastructure development.
Similarly, Mr Chizoo Nwanu of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) commended the administration but called for urgent action against unauthorised revenue collectors hindering business growth.
For his part, the President of the Association of Anambra Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ACCIMA), Pharm. Uchenna Uzoma Apakama, recommended the establishment of a dedicated trade fair ground and support for international trade missions.
The traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty (HRM) Igwe Chidubem Oranu, called for a strategic road project to boost access and financial inclusion in Ayamelum Local Government Area. He also cautioned against excessive security checkpoints around the Onitsha Bridge, describing them as deterrents to business traffic from neighbouring Asaba in Delta State and beyond.
In response, Governor Soludo announced plans for a new legal framework to prohibit illegal financial demands on land buyers and to curb extortion by youths and community leaders. He stressed that such practices must be eradicated to protect investor confidence.
Power Sector Overhaul Underway
Addressing electricity challenges, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to eliminating estimated billing in the state.
He cited the enactment of the Anambra State Electricity Law and the establishment of a State Electricity Regulatory Commission as major milestones that will allow the state to independently generate and distribute power.
“We’re laying the foundation for a reliable, affordable, and accountable electricity market tailored to our state’s needs,” he said.
A Call to Collective Action
Governor Soludo concluded with a rallying call to the business community, urging them to champion the cause of development and partner with the government in building a prosperous Anambra.
“Anambra is an A-state. We can achieve anything if we bring our energy, integrity, and resources to the table. This journey belongs to all of us,” he said.
Key government officials in attendance included the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof Sylvia Ifejeme; Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr Julius Chukwuemeka; Acting MD of Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), Dr Ejike Osisioma; and the MD of Anambra ICT Agency, Mr Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, among others.