By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :
In line with Governor Prof. Charles Soludo CFR’s vision to transform Anambra State into a prosperous mega smart city, the SoulCity project in Obosi—located along the Second Niger Bridge road—has been unveiled. This ambitious initiative is expected to offer significant tourism potential, featuring a zoo, mini stadium, museum, supermarket, water resort, amusement park, central sewage system, and 24-hour power supply.
The unveiling event took place at the Emeka and Bunmi Foundation Center in Obosi, attended by government officials from the Ministry of Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, representatives from the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and various families who own the land.
In his address, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, represented by Permanent Secretary Mr. Jerome Ilokwu, emphasized that the project is a remarkable initiative that will enhance tourism and development, making the environment livable, sustainable, and friendly for everyone.
“I thank the SoulCity team and the people of Obosi for making this initiative a reality today. We now invite our people in the state and diaspora to come and invest in the SoulCity project,” he stated.
Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director/Chief Executive of NIWA, represented by Onitsha Area Manager Mr. Suleiman Nicholas, explained that NIWA’s mandate is to develop, maintain, and regulate activities within inland waters, including the river in Obosi, a tributary of the River Niger in Anambra State. He clarified that while NIWA regulates the waterways, the land through which these waterways pass belongs to the community or individuals. “Before issuing permits, NIWA ensures that all required documents are complete,” he added.
Subsequently, NIWA granted SoulCity Integrated Resources Ltd the mandate and permit to carry out activities in the area, highlighting the project’s potential to bring significant development to the community and the state.
Mr. Nnamdi Nwokoye, Executive Director of SoulCity Integrated Resources Ltd, expressed gratitude to Governor Prof. Charles Soludo for approving the project, as well as to NIWA and the landowning families for their generous support and understanding. He explained that the project aims to create a one-stop tourism center, featuring a mini stadium, museum, zoo, water resort, reliable electricity supply, shopping mall, supermarkets, and other exciting attractions.
Mr. Nwokoye also mentioned that the streets within the project will be named after notable celebrities and legends, with their status serving as a monument to beautify the area and create photography opportunities.
He noted that the SoulCity project began nine years ago after obtaining consent for the swampy land from the landowning families. The completion of the Second Niger Bridge has further enhanced accessibility to the area.
Upon completion, the project is expected to generate employment opportunities for youth and contribute to the community’s development. Mr. Nwokoye urged successful individuals from Anambra living abroad to consider investing in the development of a new Anambra.
Ogwo is of the Ministry of Information.
