By Christian ABURIME
In an extempore but lucid speech that echoed the aspirations of Ndi Anambra, the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, on Tuesday marked the 33rd anniversary of the State with a powerful message of progress, unity, appreciation, and unalloyed rededication to a greater future.
His words were beyond just a celebration of the state’s journey since its creation on August 27, 1991; they were also a passionate call to action, a reminder of the shared vision that binds the people of Anambra together.
Governor Soludo eloquently painted a picture of a state that has risen from the aspirations of its founders to become a bastion of economic vitality and social progress in Nigeria.
Today, Anambra is not just another state; it is a thriving entity ranking among the top six largest economies in the country. Despite some challenges, both national and sub-national, the state boasts some of the lowest poverty indicators in Nigeria, a proof of its robust economy and industrious people.
One of the most remarkable highlights of Governor Soludo’s speech was his emphasis on Anambra’s urban transformation. With about 65-70 percent of the state now urbanised, and one of its cities, Onitsha, recognised as the largest industrial and commercial hub in West Africa, Anambra continues to reflect the power of visionary leadership and collective effort.
Under successive leadership, right up to the incumbent, the state has consistently demonstrated its shining light as a “livable and prosperous homeland,” a phrase that has now become synonymous with Soludo’s impactful administration.
Quite admirably, Governor Soludo celebrated the outstanding achievements of Anambra in education, where the state’s students have consistently excelled on national and international stages. His Awoist commitment to free education in public schools has not only reduced the number of out-of-school children to the lowest in the country, but has also fostered a culture of excellence that keeps the state in the forefront of development.
Yet, the governor’s vision extends beyond education. He has also recorded remarkable feats in technology, innovation, infrastructure, and rural transformation, proudly asserting that Anambra is a leader in these fields.
In health, the state ranks second only to Lagos in having the lowest infant mortality rate, a feat achieved through deliberate policies and strategic investments in healthcare.
Throughout his speech, Governor Soludo paid homage to the heroes past whose vision and sacrifices laid the foundation for Anambra’s sustained progress.
He honoured the memories of iconic luminaries like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Chinua Achebe, and many others who have left indelible marks on the state, Igboland, and Nigeria at large. Their legacies are still inspiring, reminding all Ndị Anambra of the rich heritage they are called to uphold and advance.
What progress could any society make without the invaluable contributions of women and youth? Virtually not much. It is the reason Governor Soludo also noted the significant roles Anambra women play, not just in the domestic sphere, but also in education, where they dominate the teaching profession, and in civil service, where they are a formidable force, due to the governor’s liberal recruitment drive.
The governor praised the resilience and enterprise of Anambra’s youth, who, in the face of national challenges and recent hunger protests, chose to engage in constructive endeavours rather than erupt in violence, embodying the spirit of innovation and hard work that Anambra is known for.
Of course, Anambra’s journey has not been without challenges. For instance, the governor acknowledged the looming threat of massive flooding, a natural disaster that has previously caused widespread destruction in the state. Despite these challenges, the state government, under Governor Soludo’s leadership, remains proactive, preparing to mitigate the impact of such disasters and ensuring the safety and well-being of its people at any time.
In rallying the spirit of collective responsibility, Governor Soludo’s speech was a resonant call to every Anambra indigene, at home and in the Diaspora, to harness their talents, resources, and entrepreneurial spirit towards building a state that is not only economically vibrant but also socially cohesive and environmentally sustainable.
Indeed, one man with a vivid vision like Governor Soludo can provide inspiring leadership, but it takes everyone’s coalesced efforts to transform Anambra into a smart megacity, a livable and prosperous homeland where dreams are realised, and potential are fully harnessed.
In this moment of Anambra’s 33rd anniversary, as the state is on the rise, the Soludo government is not indulging in any vain celebration but rolling up its sleeves to work harder than ever.
Happy 33rd anniversary to Anambra State!!