Soludo begins second term with bold mega-city vision, vows faster transformation of Anambra

Cityscope, Politics

AWKA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 17, 2026 — Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, has been inaugurated for a second term, outlining plans to deepen development and accelerate the state’s transformation.

Speaking at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka on Tuesday, Soludo recalled that his first term began without fanfare, focusing immediately on security and urgent social needs, starting with interventions in Okpoko. He said his administration has delivered over 90% of its promises, earning widespread public support and a 73% electoral victory, which he described as a strong endorsement of his development agenda.

He cited major achievements, including dismantling criminal camps and restoring security, extensive road construction and dualization, and urban renewal projects across Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, and Ekwulobia. Other milestones include revived water schemes, environmental efforts, and digital skills training for more than 300,000 youths. Programs such as 1Youth 2Skills and agricultural initiatives, including the distribution of millions of seedlings, have supported job creation and household incomes.

In education and healthcare, the government recruited over 8,000 teachers, expanded free education, upgraded public schools, and recorded improved national performance. In healthcare, free antenatal and delivery services have benefited over 200,000 women, while new hospitals and primary care investments have strengthened access. The state has also received recognition for fiscal transparency and sustainable public finance management.

Soludo reiterated his long-term vision to transform Anambra into an “African Dubai–Taiwan–Silicon Valley,” driven by commerce, industrialisation, and technology, under the Anambra Vision 2070 framework.

Looking ahead, he pledged to prioritise security and electricity while advancing major infrastructure projects, including new cities, an industrial hub, an innovation district, and planned rail and gas systems. He said land banking and structured urban planning are critical to managing future population growth.

The governor also emphasised social reorientation, warning against criminality and promoting values of hard work and integrity among youths.

He called for unity among political actors, collaboration with the federal government, neighbouring states, and investors, and greater participation from citizens and the diaspora. Soludo reaffirmed his commitment to governance over politics, promising to dedicate the next four years to building a secure, livable, and prosperous Anambra.