Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “cerebral, courageous and patriotic” efforts to rebuild Nigeria, urging greater regional cooperation with the federal government.
Soludo cited ongoing infrastructure projects such as the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway and the Second Niger Bridge corridor as evidence of progress, while calling for fuller inclusion of the South-East in national development plans, including gas, rail and port infrastructures.
The governor made these remarks during his second-term inauguration at Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital, framing engagement, not isolation as the pathway to relevance and development.
In a speech that blended reflection with forward-looking political messaging, Soludo, who was sworn in for a second term alongside his deputy, Onyekachukwu Ibezim, warned against what he termed the historic “waste” of electoral influence in the South-East, calling instead for strategic coalition-building across Nigeria.
He argued that in a democracy, political outcomes are shaped by organisation and bargaining power rather than sentiment, stressing the need for alliances that can advance equity, restructuring and inclusive growth.
According to him, the region must move beyond protest politics and reposition itself as an active participant in shaping national outcomes.
The governor painted a sobering picture of the South-East’s current trajectory, attributing its underperformance partly to internal divisions and prolonged instability.
He questioned the real impact of past political representation at the highest levels, arguing that elite access to power has not consistently translated into broad-based development.
While acknowledging the symbolic importance of national offices, he maintained that structural transformation, economic revitalisation and social stability are far more critical to improving everyday life.
He also rejected violent agitation as “self-annihilating,” calling instead for healing, unity and a new development-focused narrative for the region.
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Anambra’s Transformation
Soludo further outlined an ambitious vision for Anambra’s transformation into a globally competitive economic hub, driven by infrastructure renewal, human capital development and technology-led growth.
Reflecting on his first term, he noted that his administration prioritised urgent reforms from day one beginning with interventions in underserved communities and has since delivered the majority of its campaign promises.
He pledged to consolidate these gains in his second term, emphasising that governance must now take precedence over politics.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the president at the ceremony, praised Soludo’s leadership style and intellectual contributions to national discourse, describing him as a courageous democrat committed to public good.
He noted that the governor’s willingness to offer practical solutions and constructive criticism has helped strengthen Nigeria’s political, economic and social institutions.
Shettima added that Soludo’s re-election reflects the confidence and trust of the people, stressing that his second term presents an opportunity to consolidate reforms and deepen development outcomes.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s readiness to partner with Anambra State, emphasizing that effective governance must prioritise citizens’ welfare above partisan considerations while advancing national unity and growth.
Highlights of the ceremony included the administration of the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance on the governor and his deputy by the Chief Judge of Anambra State, Onochie Anyachebelu, formally cementing their tenure until 2030.
The event also featured a ceremonial parade and its inspection by Governor Soludo.