President Bola Tinubu, during his state visit to Anambra, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing critical developmental challenges facing both the state and the broader South-East region. Speaking at a civic reception held at Alex Ekwueme Square, he assured residents of the Federal Government’s dedication to upgrading infrastructure and fostering national unity through inclusive development.
During his engagement, Tinubu acknowledged the underutilization of gas reserves in Anambra, vowing to revive the South-East Gas Plant as part of efforts to boost industrial growth and economic prosperity. He also pledged federal intervention in erosion control, recognizing the urgent need to tackle the ecological disaster threatening communities across the state.
Responding to concerns raised by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Tinubu addressed the long-standing exclusion of Anambra from the National Rail Master Plan, assuring residents that his administration would rectify the oversight and ensure the state’s integration into the country’s railway network. He also recognized the abandoned federal road projects linking Anambra to Kogi State, describing them as essential for improved accessibility between Abuja, the South-East, and the South-South regions.
Highlighting his commitment to Nigeria’s unity, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of embracing diversity to achieve prosperity, stating that regardless of differences in language and heritage, Nigerians must see themselves as part of a single family living in the same house called Nigeria.
As a mark of honor, Tinubu was conferred with the prestigious chieftaincy title “Dikesimba of Anambra State” by the traditional rulers, recognizing his contributions to national development and unity. He also recalled a previous title bestowed upon him in 2005, “Omenife of Awka,” reinforcing his historical ties with the region.
During his visit, President Tinubu commissioned key projects, including the Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. He also toured and inaugurated various components of Solution Fun City, such as the Anambra Country Club, Family Fun House, Water Park, and Amusement Park, which were built under the leadership of Governor Soludo.
Other notable activities included the launch of Government House Mini City, the unveiling of the Anambra Tour of Light, and the dedication of statues honoring historical icons like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Prof. Chinua Achebe, Prof. Kenneth Dike, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Mrs. Margaret Ekpo. In addition, President Tinubu officially commissioned the newly completed Emeka Anyaoku Boulevard, further emphasizing the state’s commitment to development and modernization.
Welcoming the President, Governor Soludo described the visit as historic and consequential, stating that it symbolized a new era of collaboration between the Federal Government and Anambra State. He praised Tinubu’s economic reforms and federal infrastructure projects, particularly the rehabilitation of the Enugu-Onitsha Road, Second Niger Bridge access roads, and ongoing erosion control measures, describing them as transformative for the South-East.
Governor Soludo also highlighted Anambra’s progressive ideological alignment, emphasizing the state’s commitment to federalism, inclusion, and people-centered development. He reiterated that Anambra stands firmly behind President Tinubu’s administration, pledging unwavering support to ensure the success of his leadership.
Prominent figures from across the state, including Emeka Anyaoku, Ada Chukwudozie, Sir Emeka Offor, Rapulu Nwaezekwe, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo Secretary-General Emeka Sibeudu, delivered goodwill messages, affirming their support for the President’s leadership and his vision for a united, prosperous Nigeria.
President Tinubu’s visit to Anambra underscores a renewed commitment to regional integration, infrastructure development, and economic advancement, signaling a promising new chapter for the South-East.
AT Reporter
