Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has urged the newly established South East Development Commission (SEDC) to prioritise the construction of a regional railway connecting the five south-eastern states, highlighting its pivotal economic and infrastructural significance for the region.
This directive was issued during the 4th meeting of the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) held in the Council Chamber, Awka. The gathering also marked the farewell to Mr. Mark Okoye II, the former Managing Director of the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), who has transitioned to become the pioneer MD/CEO of SEDC.
Governor Soludo reiterated his administration’s unwavering support for the Commission, calling for a focus on long-term socio-economic projects, particularly the railway initiative, which aims to bolster trade, mobility, and regional integration.
Soludo reassured Mr. Mark Okoye, the pioneer MD/CEO of SEDC, of government support, emphasizing the great economic benefits of a regional railway project.
In a post-exco press statement issued by Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, it was stated that this move is expected to boost economic growth and development in the region.
During his valedictory speech at the ANSEC, Mr. Okoye II reflected on his journey from the private sector to public service, starting 13 years ago as a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Investments. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities and lessons learned along the way.
He mentioned how honoured he was to deliver a valedictory speech at the Anambra State Executive Council, with the permission of Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR. Mr. Okoye II expressed readiness for his new role as MD/CEO of the South East Development Commission, recognizing the importance of hard work, disciplined execution, and commitment in achieving extraordinary results. He concluded by stating his gratitude for the past and readiness for the future.
Also Read: South-East Development Commission Projects $200bn regional economy by 2035
In a similar development, ANSEC reaffirmed its backing of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in its efforts to eliminate counterfeit and expired drugs from local markets.
The Council commended Governor Soludo for visiting the closed Drug Market in Onitsha and urged NAFDAC to expedite its inspection and verification processes, extending governmental support to facilitate these efforts.
To combat the growing menace of fake drugs, the Council approved the completion of the Anambra State Pharmaceutical Hub (Coordinated Wholesale Drug Centre) in Oba, a crucial facility designed to regulate drug distribution and ensure quality control.
Addressing security issues, ANSEC called on communities across the state to collaborate with the government to eradicate crime and insecurity.
The Council expressed gratitude to Ndi Anambra for their ongoing support of the new security measures, clarifying that the fight against harmful traditional practices is not an attack on traditional religion but a defence of cultural integrity.
Amidst these discussions, the government issued a strong warning against the promotion of deceptive native doctors who offer ‘wealth without work’ and products such as Oke-Ite and similar fetish items.
The Council also approved several strategic contracts aimed at enhancing key facilities across the state. According to a statement from State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, contracts awarded include;
- Reconstruction and fortification of the perimeter fence at the Commissioners’ Quarters in Awka, awarded to Aristan Developers Ltd for N57,500,000.00.
- Construction of two NR model gates at general hospitals, along with landscaping, interlocking, and fencing of the Enugwu-Otu Aguleri Hospital Compound, awarded to Daluchukwu & Bros Impex Ltd for N310,718,114.73.
- Repainting and renovation of the VIP stand, awarded to KUV Homes & Properties for N107,119,753.69.
- Reclamation and control of flood and gully erosion at the Cosmetics Market, awarded to Acode Energy Services Ltd for N188,174,822.19.
Comments are closed.