Emma Elekwa
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state has lauded the people of Nanka in Orumba North local government for their unwavering commitment to community development.
Soludo made the commendation at the official commissioning of a strategic 2.5 kilometer road project in Enugwu Nanka.
He described the recent infrastructure strides in the town as a testament to “living for a higher purpose.”
The Governor seized the platform to express gratitude to the community for their massive support during the last election.
He promised that his administration remains dedicated to reciprocating their trust with tangible development.
The highlight of the event was the Governor’s high praise for the private individual behind the project, Engr Geoffrey. Nwankwo.
He described him as a shining example of the “Think Home” philosophy that his administration has championed since inception.
“To the people of Nanka, let us celebrate Engr Nwankwo.
Nobody has it all; it takes a special heart to take what you have and give it back to the public.
“He should be emulated by all Ndi Anambra. You will be remembered for these good works long after you are gone,” he added.
Anambra spirit
The Governor noted that the road construction serves as a celebration of the “Anambra Spirit”—a unique blend of individual success and communal responsibility.
The Governor further addressed immediate community needs, specifically focusing on the Afo Udo Market.
He announced that government would undertake the fencing of the market to prevent encroachment and unauthorized activities.
The governor said with the “renewed peace” returning to the community, development would be significantly accelerated.
He noted that Nanka has a long history of self-help and community service, calling it a bedrock of their identity.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene reaffirmed the commitment of private citizens to the Governor’s vision.
He revealed that the project benefactor, Engr. Nwankwo, has a long-standing record of charity.
He has built more than 15 houses for widows and indigent members of Nanka before the 2.5km road project.
“The community sees itself as active partners in his administration’s private-sector initiatives.
“The influx of individual-led projects is a direct “appreciation of the good works” the Governor is doing across the state.
More roads in Nanka other places
He assured the governor that going forward, he would be kept busy commissioning many more roads built by individuals, as Nanka and other communities are now inspired to take charge of their local infrastructure.
In an emotional address, the benefactor of the road project, Engr. Geoffrey Nwankwo, expressed gratitude and shared the personal motivation behind the massive undertaking.
Nwankwo stated that he was humbled by the Governor’s presence.
He revealed that the road is named after his late father—a man he described as “rich in values, though not wealthy”—whose principles guided his path to success.
According to him, the project belongs to the people. “To ndị Enugwu Nanka, this road is about us,” he said, urging a shift in focus from “individual success to collective success.”
He called on the community to take ownership of the infrastructure, insisting that “what we build together must not be allowed to deteriorate tomorrow.”
While noting that the road was already producing “meaningful impacts” for the future, Nwankwo prayed the road would bring safety, progress and prosperity to the beneficiaries.
Highlight of the event was celebratory tour of the new road, as the Nanka community turned out in large numbers to cheer both the Governor and their illustrious son for their collaborative efforts in changing the face of the town.
