The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has praised the state’s founding fathers and past leaders for their vision and sacrifices, which laid the foundation for the state’s growth over the past 34 years.
Soludo also affirmed that criminals can no longer operate freely under his administration, noting that over 60 criminal camps across 10 local government areas have been dismantled through the efforts of the state security outfits – Agunechemba and Udo-ga-chi.
He urged politicians calling for the scrapping of these security outfits to avoid politicising their activities, stressing that doing so would jeopardise public safety.
Soludo made the remarks during a press briefing at the Light House in Awka on Wednesday, marking the 34th anniversary of Anambra State’s creation.
He emphasised that sustainable development should focus on agriculture, healthcare, quality education, and reliable infrastructure rather than short-term handouts.
According to the governor, his administration’s mission aligns with Anambra’s “Vision 2070 plan,” aimed at improving infrastructure, boosting the local economy, and making the state a national destination hub.
“Stomach infrastructure does not mean giving handouts or distributing cash. It is about fulfilling the government’s duty to provide essential services that improve citizens’ livelihoods,” Soludo said.
He highlighted the administration’s achievements, including distributing over 2.6 million palm and coconut seedlings to 180,000 households, offering free education in public schools, and providing free antenatal and delivery services in state-owned hospitals.
“We are paying a minimum wage of N82,000, and we have cleared the backlog of pension arrears and gratuities for state and local government workers.
“We have empowered over 5,000 youths, with over 8,000 more soon to benefit. Additionally, over 600 kilometres out of 800 kilometres of roads have been commissioned. Deploying public resources to create societal value is far more impactful than just dashing money,” he added.
The governor called on people of the state to join his administration in building a prosperous state, stressing that with faith in God and confidence in governance, a homeland of their dreams can be realised.
Despite being one of Nigeria’s smallest states by landmass, Soludo noted that Anambra has produced some of the nation’s brightest minds, successful entrepreneurs, and visionary leaders.
“Today, we celebrate not only in commemoration but in reflective rededication. We mark the 34th anniversary of our beloved Anambra State, a divine project, Light of the Nation, a bright promise etched into the map of Nigeria in 1991,” he said.
He added, “From our commercial hubs to academic institutions, from innovative industries to our rich cultural heritage, Anambra continues to rise.
“The journey is far from over. What we have achieved in the past three years is a solid foundation, a commitment to building a liveable and prosperous smart-megacity.”
The governor reiterated the impact of the security operations, saying, “Before now, over 60 criminal camps were holding 10 local government areas hostage, but today, these have been dislodged through Agunechemba and Udo-ga-chi in collaboration with the police and other security agencies. I appeal to opposition figures to stop politicising security, as peace has now returned to the state.”
He commended law-abiding residents for their support and urged continued cooperation with state policies.
“Let’s collectively build the Anambra of our dreams. As your humble servant, I will continue working around the clock to deliver dividends of democracy. From the first Military Administrator, Navy Capt Joseph Abulu, to Wing Cmdr Emmanuel Ukaegbu; from the first civilian governor, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, to my immediate predecessor, Chief Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano, Anambra has continued on a remarkable growth trajectory.
“Happy 34th Anniversary, Anambra State! God bless Anambra State! God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May Anambra continue to win!”
