Stakeholders seek collaborations to develop Anambra State

Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka

Last updated Jan 14, 2024

Stakeholders in Anambra state have called for collective efforts to enhance developments across all sectors in the state.

They made the call during the 3rd edition of the Anambra Man of the Year (AMTY) awards, an annual event that celebrates excellence, achievements and impacts of Anambra people in the state and Nigeria.

The Rector of the Federal polytechnic Oko in Anambra State, Francisca Nwafulugo said that collaboration is the catalyst for transformative change

“By harnessing the collective strength of our diverse talents and resources, we can overcome challenges that may seem insurmountable when faced alone.

Delivering a keynote address at the event, Nwafulugo implored people of the state to take part in the development of their state by investing in the critical sectors of its economy.

“The growth and development of the state is the project for all and not restricted to government alone, hence the need for eminent sons and daughters to contribute their quota towards making the state the industrial hub of the country. “

According to Nwafulugo, “We have the human capital and capacity that is needed to turn Anambra into one big industrial and economically viable zone that could be likened to Dubai.

“Attaining this is not only the responsibility of the government as the government does not have the magic wand capable of achieving eldorado. It is necessary to remind us that the growth and development of a state is a collective effort of both the government and the citizens.

“We must therefore forge partnerships — government, private sector, and civil society working hand-in-hand.

“Our people need to start thinking home.It is an irony for our people to invest in and develop other places leaving out their home and then complain that home is not developed like other places. Charity begins at home. Political affiliations shouldn’t be a barrier. We must lay aside political differences and join hands together to lift our state.

“Anambra has what it takes to be a leading economy in Nigeria. We need to synergize and galvanize manpower and resources to achieve this. A boisterous economy is key to growth and development. So we need to strengthen the economy of the state.”

The rector who spoke extensively on the importance of developing the home economy said special emphasis should be placed on the development of youth, economic empowerment, and ease of doing business within the state.

She emphasized the need for government to harmonize taxes paid by business operators and the relevance of providing tax holidays for emerging businesses, noting that such moves will not only save businesses from being stifled but serves as an incentive for gain and stability.

The rector maintained that nurturing a tech-savvy environment will position the state as a hub of innovation and attract investments and talents that will propel it into a prosperous future.

According to Professor Emeka Ezeonu, a Harvard-trained Professor of Biochemistry and former Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner who Chaired the event, it is imperative to join hands to keep moving the state forward.

He also said the event was not just the celebration of great achievers in the state but a rallying cry for collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence for the state.

During the event, no fewer than forty-two (42) personalities, brands, institutions were conferred with awards for their innovation and impacts in diverse areas as well as contributions to the betterment of the society.