By Emma Elekwa
The Anambra State President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, has expressed optimism that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s second term will fast-track the realization of a liveable and prosperous Anambra State.
Speaking in Awka on the governor’s swearing-in, Okpalaezeukwu said the achievements recorded during Soludo’s first term have laid a solid foundation for the transformation of the state across key sectors.
He noted that developments in education, health, ICT, and infrastructure signal greater progress in the coming years, describing them as critical enablers of economic growth.
According to him, the introduction of free education in primary and secondary schools, as well as free antenatal care and delivery services in public health facilities, reflects the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of residents.
He added that ongoing rehabilitation of existing health centres and construction of new ones demonstrate a deliberate effort to strengthen the state’s healthcare system.
In the area of technology, Okpalaezeukwu commended the administration’s investment in youth development through initiatives driven by the Anambra State ICT Agency and the Solution Innovation District (SID).
He said these programmes are equipping young people with skills to thrive in a technology-driven economy.
Broadband expansion
He also highlighted the expansion of broadband access across the state, including the government’s decision to waive the cost of laying fibre optic cables and the provision of Wi-Fi in areas with high youth population.
“These are deliberate efforts aimed at positioning Anambra as a hub for innovation and digital advancement,” he said.
On infrastructure, the Ohanaeze leader pointed to extensive road construction and rehabilitation projects across the state, noting that improved connectivity is already opening up opportunities in commerce and industry.
“All these are indications of what is to come, and Anambra people are expectant,” he added.
Okpalaezeukwu attributed the administration’s achievements to Governor Soludo’s strong political will and commitment to accountability, which he said have helped address longstanding governance challenges.
He noted that the governor’s stance on prudent management of public resources has set a standard for appointees and strengthened public confidence in government.
According to him, increased transparency in budgeting and project execution has also encouraged greater trust among residents.
He cited improved compliance with tax payments, especially among commercial transport operators, as evidence of renewed public faith in governance.
“People are more willing to support the government because they can see the impact of its policies and programmes,” he said.
Looking ahead, Okpalaezeukwu expressed confidence that the governor’s second term will bring the much-talked-about “Anambra Dubai-Taiwan” vision closer to reality.
He said the governor’s re-election in the November 2025 governorship poll reflects the trust and confidence of the people in his leadership.
No disappointment
“Anambra people trusted Soludo in 2021, and he delivered. In 2025, they renewed that trust, and there is every reason to believe he will not disappoint,” he stated.
He added that if the governor’s vision is fully realised, Anambra has the potential to emerge as one of the most economically viable states in Nigeria.
Okpalaezeukwu, however, stressed the need for continued support from citizens, noting that government alone cannot drive development.
He urged residents to fulfil their civic responsibilities, including prompt payment of taxes, active participation in governance, and involvement in community development efforts.
He also called on affluent indigenes of the state to partner with the government in driving sustainable development.
The Ohanaeze leader assured that the organisation would continue to mobilise residents, particularly at the grassroots, to support the administration’s efforts toward building a prosperous and liveable Anambra State.
