News

AWKA REGION HOLDS CATHEDRATICUM IN JOYFUL EXPECTATION OF EASTER CELEBRATION

By Michael Ezenwata

Over 20,000 Catholic faithful in the Awka Region, Awka Catholic Diocese participated in this year’s Cathedraticum/Chrism Mass presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor at the St.Patrick’s Cathedral Awka.

In a homily at the occasion, Bishop Ezeokafor leveraged on the theme of the Lenten Pastoral message for the year “Never Lose Hope” akin to Pope Francis theme, “Jubilee Year Of Hope” to urge christians to face the challenges of life with hope in God.

The prelate raised alarm on the rot in the families occasioned by the negligence of some parents on parental upbringing, urging parents to start early enough to bring up their children in the fear of God and a sense of commitment to imbibe proper societal values to equip them with the necessary exposure and empathy to look after their parents at old age.

He decried the upsurge in neo- paganism and patronage of fake pastors and native doctors among youths as failure of parents to impact positively on their children.

Bishop Ezeokafor thanked Governor Chukwuma Soludo for fighting the vices through his security strategy and urged him to extend the crusade to expose some fake pastors and priests deceiving the masses.

He described the governor’s security measures as some of the best things that have happened to the state.

Bishop Ezeokafor passed a vote of confidence on the governor for addressing all sectors of the economy and urged the electorate to secure their voters cards and use it wisely during the forthcoming November 8 governorship election in the state.

The Bishop further announced the process of beatification and canonization of the late Rev. Fr. Aaron Ekwu who was trained in Austria and urged the Catholic faithful to report miracles performed in memory of Fr. Ekwu at institutions such as St. Matthew’s Catholic Church Amawbia, St. Andrew’s Catholic church Adazi Nnukwu, and St. Mary’s Catholic Church Orsumoghu.

He also announced plans to establish an old People’s and Orphanage home in Awka Diocese to help the people concerned.

On the existence of the Catholic Knighthood of St. Michael the Archangel in Awka Diocese, Bishop Ezeokafor announced that the Catholic Order has come to stay and has received the imprimatur of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria.

The prelate maintained that all the Catholic Order of Knights in Awka Diocese are his children and can never be denied of their rights.

On the moves by some Umuzocha people in Awka to forcefully claim ownership of a portion of the Cathedral Parish, Bishop Ezeokafor confirmed that the Umuzocha community donated the parish land to the Catholic Church so many years back and was handed over to him from his predecessors in office; late Archbishop Albert Obiefuna and late Bishop Simon Okafor.

According to him, the Church which fenced the area of land donated to her has not added an inch to what was given to her, and will not therefore concede any of her territory to any intruder.

He made the public pronouncement, expecting the Catholic faithful to pray for the Church and for the state government to intervene in the matter.

Governor Soludo who was represented at the occasion by his Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike promised that government will look into the land matter and other matters raised by the Bishop and called for the support of the Church for the performing governor of the state who has improved the healthcare delivery system in the state, security situation, others.

A former Chairman of Njikoka LGA, High Chief George Ozor also commended Governor Soludo for his good governance and urged him not to rest on his oars.

High Chief Ozor used the period of the Holy week to urge leaders in Nigeria to emulate Jesus Christ in their style of leadership.

He further commiserated with the Igbo race on the demise of Prof. Humphery Nwosu and the legendary footballer Christian Chukwu who exhibited professionalism in their service to the nation.

The President Life member of Awka Deanery 1, Dr.Tochi Onalike, expects Christians to utilize the period of Holy week to imbibe the virtues of Jesus Christ, describing this year’s Cathedraticum as eventful.

On his part, the Chairman, Catholic Men Organization, St. Paul’s Parish, Awba Ofemili, Brother George Agunwa felicitated with Bishop Ezeokafor on this year’s Cathedraticum.

He commended Governor Soludo for the rehabilitation of the Amansea – Awba Ofemili road which remains a pride to benefitting communities.

In their separate remarks, a member of the Catholic Knight of St. Michael the Archangel in Awka Diocese, Sir Victor Okoli called on leaders in Nigeria to be exemplary in the discharge of their duties while the President Laity Council Of Nigeria Awka Catholic Diocese Sir Joseph Igwebuike showered his good wishes to the Laity throughout the Holy week and beyond.

Highpoints on the occasion were the Cathedraticum and the blessing of the oils of the Sick, Catechumen, and Chrism by the Bishop.

FARMING SEASON: AGRIC COMMISSIONER PLEDGES MORE SUPPORT FOR FARMERS

By Chukwuka Ugokwe

The Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, has pledged to provide support to farmers with soyabean seeds and organic fertilizers that will help boost the food supply in Anambra East Local Government Area

The Commissioner made the pledge during the flag off of farming season in Anambra East Local Government Area by the Mayor, Hon Ifeanyi Chinweze.

According to him, the gesture is part of immediate intervention to assist farmers in the area since food security remains the priority of the solution government.

He used the occasion to underscore the need to embrace the regenerative agriculture policy of the state government to not just produce enough food but also healthy food.

Flagging Off the farming season, the Mayor distributed 10,000 seed Yams and oil palm to farmers, and assured of his commitment to make the area the yam hub of Anambra State.

He noted that the local government being an agririan area known for yam cultivation informed his decision of distributing the seed yams to beneficiaries to support their farming.

According to him, the beneficiaries will have to return the number given to them next year to recycle the process to a larger number of people.

The Mayor also added that the distribution forms the first phase of his intervention, as the second phase would be expanded to include distribution of cassava stems to majorly women.

Chukwuka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

NIPDs: ASPHCDA, PARTNERS TRAINS TRAINERS AHEAD OF CAMPAIGN

By Nnedinma Okeke

The Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with Partners has conducted a one-day State level Training of Trainers (STOT) ahead of the upcoming National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) in the State.

The training aims to strengthen trainers’ capacity on the new polio campaign strategies for better planning, implementation, and monitoring of campaigns.

Its objectives includes; to equip trainers with skills in innovative strategies for microplanning, team performance, campaign monitoring, and to promote data-driven decision-making as well as community engagement for better campaign outcomes.

The training was held at King David Hotel, Awka. It had in attendance Primary Healthcare (PHC) Directors from the 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State, together with the LGA health team.

The Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Pharm Chisom Uchem noted that the training was important as it would aid build capacity of the healthcare workers ahead of the NIPDs, and enable them to look into challenges that may be faced during the campaign.

She urged the health workers to pay rapt attention in order for them to be able to cascade the knowledge effectively at the LGA and Ward levels training.

The Executive Secretary cautioned healthcare workers against insubordination, commended their effectiveness in service delivery, urging them to continuously do their best to ensure high level of performance.

She, then, expressed gratitude to the Partners; UNICEF, WHO and NPHCDA for their continuous support and contributions to the State healthcare sector.

The State Immunization Officer (SIO), Mrs Edith Onwuka emphasized that the training aims to build capacity of the trainers to aid cascade the training without hitches or hurdles for the 2025 NIPDs implementation which was scheduled to commence on May 3.

“Expected outcomes of the training includes; enhanced trainer competency, standardized implementation, improved supervision and monitoring,” she said.

The training also had in attendance; WHO South East Zonal Coordinator- Dr Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, and Director Disease Control and Immunization, ASPHCDA- Dr Nnamdi Placid Uliagbafusi.

Also, WHO Anambra State Coordinator- Dr Bonos Mohammed, UNICEF Vaccine Security and Logistics (VSL)- Mr Stanley Osum, UNICEF Strategic Behavioral Change (SBC) Consultant- Dr Uju Eze, others.

Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

ANAMBRA’S 3-YEAR RENAISSANCE: HOW GOVERNOR SOLUDO IS TRANSFORMING A STATE

By Christian ABURIME

Anambra State, once a region plagued by dire insecurity and underdevelopment, is now on the marble of a remarkable transformation. Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, with his innovative leadership, has laid the foundation for what could be the next African Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley.

In just three years, Governor Soludo’s administration has not only addressed long-standing issues but has also set the stage for a prosperous future.

This summative exposition is just a glimpse of the multifaceted achievements of Governor Soludo, exploring how his administration has redefined governance, infrastructure, security, and economic development in Anambra State.

As many already know, Governor Soludo’s vision for Anambra is encapsulated in the ambitious African Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley (ADTS) project. This vision is supported by a youthful and dynamic ‘Solution Team’ that has been instrumental in redefining governance. The administration’s focus on integrity, equity, and inclusiveness has led to significant strides in infrastructure, security, and economic development.

Governor Soludo’s mantra, “One State, One People, One Agenda,” underpins his commitment to unity and collective progress.

In terms of infrastructure, Anambra has seen a massive road and transportation revolution. Over 754 kilometres of new roads have been contracted, with 462 kilometres asphalted and completed. The state government has also rehabilitated five major water schemes, ensuring access to piped water for its residents. Additionally, the administration has embarked on a renewable energy initiative, converting over 26,000 diesel-powered streetlights to solar power. The construction of the state-of-the-art Government House complex and the remodeling and expansion of the Three Arms Zone are further strong pointers to the administration’s commitment to modernisation.

Economically, Anambra is positioning itself as a commercial and logistics hub. The establishment of the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City (AMIC) and the Pharmaceutical Distribution and Manufacturing Hub are proofs of the state’s commitment to industrialisation. These projects are expected to attract significant investment and create numerous job opportunities. The administration’s focus on digitalisation, including the establishment of the Solution Innovation District (SID), is driving the growth of the tech and digital economy. The SID has trained over 30,000 people in digital skills and supported over 100 new business ideas.

Governor Soludo’s administration has prioritised security, establishing new ‘Agunechemba’ security architecture anchored in technology and the “Homeland Security Law.” This has led to a significant reduction in criminal activities, with the dismantling of over 60 criminal camps and the arrest of numerous suspects. The administration has also made significant impact in justice delivery, including the full automation of the Anambra State Judiciary System and the establishment of virtual hearing facilities in 30 High Courts and four Correctional Centres.

The Soludo administration has made significant investments in human capital, focusing on education and healthcare. The introduction of free and qualitative education has led to a remarkable increase in school enrollment. The administration has also prioritised healthcare, building new general hospitals, introducing initiatives such as free antenatal and delivery services, and the renovation and equipping of primary healthcare centres.

Environmental sustainability is a key pillar of Soludo’s administration. The state government has implemented a vigorous tree planting policy, committing to planting over 1,000,000 trees annually. The administration has also embarked on a solar revolution in the power sector, installing solar streetlights and powering government offices through solar energy sources. Efforts to control erosion and improve waste management have resulted in significant environmental improvements.

Thus far, Governor Soludo’s progressive leadership has set Anambra State on a path of sustainable growth and development. The state’s progress in just three years is a tribute to the power of dynamic leadership and strategic planning. As Anambra continues to rise, the foundations laid by Governor Soludo’s administration will undoubtedly lead to a prosperous and sustainable future for its citizens. The journey towards a livable and prosperous homeland, anchored on the mantra of “One State, One People, One Agenda” envisioned to become the African Dubai-Taiwan Silicon valley of Nigeria is fully on course!

ONITSHA SOUTH MAYOR FELICITATES WITH GOVERNOR SOLUDO ON THE VANGUARD NEWSPAPER AWARD ON GOOD GOVERNANCE

By Juliana Nwachukwu

The Mayor, Onitsha South Local Government Area, Chief Emeka Orji has felicitated with Governor Charles Soludo for the Vanguard Newspaper Award on Good Governance.

According to the Mayor, “I know you too well, you planned Anambra State since 2006 and kept, waiting for the opportunity to put them in practice, today, you are carrying them out one after the other as you planned, talk and do Governor.

“Ndi Anambra are so happy for you, we are not surprise that Vanguard gave you this award of the 2024 best governor of the year for the good governance, you have turned Anambra State to one big construction site with over 700 km of roads under construction, dualization of 68km Amawbia to Ekwulobia to Akokwa boundary, Imo State.

“In three years, you transformed the face of Anambra State with your numerous projects across the 21 LGAs leaving no community behind, those unreachable communities like Olumbanasaa, Ezi Agulu Otu among others can now be reached within minutes.

“120,000 women have benefitted from the free ante natal, free delivery both caesarean operation, for the first time, you promised our students in higher institutions bursary allowances which we know you will do, in short counting your achievements would take much space on phone and you are still doing more.

“Odenjiji Aguata, we are short of words, but all these awards have said it all because action speaks louder than voice, you are an achiever, and you will continue to make our state proud, we are proud of you.

“Charlie Nwamgbafor, Ndi Anambra are solidly behind you and owe you our unalloyed support, we will re-elect you come Nov.8 gubernatorial election for the completion of your good works in the state.

“Remain Blessed Our Able Governor

More Awards Loading,” he posited

* Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

CP LAUDS SOLUDO, OTHERS FOR MOTIVATION, FIXING ARMOURED AND OPERATIONAL VEHICLES..AS ANAMBRA SECURITY JTF LAUNCHES OPERATION UDO GA CHI ZERO KIDNAPPING AND OTHER VIOLENT CRIMES

By Uzo Ugwunze

The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu has expressed gratitude to the state government and some philanthropists for assisting the police command to fix some Operational and Armored Vehicles that would be used by the Security Joint Task Force in combating Kidnapping, Robbery and other violent crimes and criminality during and beyond the Easter period, saying that the police and other security agencies have been highly motivated and ready for action.

The CP made the remark during the launch of ‘Operation Udo Ga chi Zero Kidnapping and Other Violent Crimes ‘ in the state by the Police and Other Security Agencies which took place at Amawbia flyover, Awka on April 14, 2025.

According to CP Ikioye Orutugu, we want to thank the state government and good-spirited Ndi Anambra for their goodwill in fixing some of our operational vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers.

“Let Ndi Anambra and residents know after a review and evaluation of policing capabilities to nip in the bud serious crimes like armed robbery, kidnapping, and other related situations, especially within this Easter period and beyond, the Police as the lead agency in internal security have emplaced an Operation code-named ‘Operation Udo Ga chi Zero Kidnapping and Other Violent Crimes in the state’, a proactive template to assuage the fear of the unknown to effectively police the state by encouraging the great people of Anambra State to come home en-masse for this festive period.

“The security forces are now more motivated, as the operation will give them a more coordinated approach to reclaiming the public space. It will also serve as a daily brief to always restrategize as the operation unfolds.

“Let us reiterate that no one can take the glory alone in the efforts of sustaining safety and security in the state, as the Operation comprises the Police, the Army from 302 Artillery Regiment (GS), the Navy from the Naval Outpost, Department of State Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Vigilante and most importantly Ndi Anambra and its teeming populace who have resolved to work with the security agencies in sharing information that may lead to the arrest and prosecution of kidnappers and other criminals.

“Furthermore, various Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) as well as other Security Formations/Security agencies have been directed to conduct massive raids on identified criminal flashpoints and hot spots within their Areas of Responsibility (AOR). This strategic move is aimed at dislodging criminal elements. It will also assist the security agencies to stay ahead of criminal threats and reinforce public confidence as well as ensuring the continued safety and security of all residents.

“Operation Udo Ga chi Zero Kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state is intelligence-driven with Stop-and-Search operations, Joint Security targeted patrols and the Operatives posted to identify locations with Amorured Personnel Carriers on alert to respond to any untoward situations.

“To this end, we have a Joint Security Information Room for Ndi Anambra to report any suspicious activity. The numbers are:

Police – 07039194332

NDLEA – 09136832679

NSDC – 08066769442

FRSC – 122

Anambra State Vigilantes – 511 and 122.

and others we shall provide as the Operations commence.

“We seek the cooperation of Ndi Anambra and its residents, we also wish to state that the Operatives have been fully briefed to be civil to members of the public,” he stated.

* Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

APGA RE NOMINATES SOLUDO, IBEZIM AS PARTY’S FLAG BEARERS FOR THE NOVEMBER 8TH ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION…AS AGBODIKE, MEFOR, ORJIAKOR, EWUZIE, EJIOFOR, OTHERS EXPRESS JOY

By Michael Ezenwata

Another landmark decision was made by the All Progressives Grand Alliance Party at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka as APGA delegates re affirmed their trust in Governor Chukwuma Soludo by unanimously giving him their undiluted votes at the party’s Governorship primaries.

The Chief Returning Officer of the primaries, Chief Uche Nwaegbo announced that out of the 3,172 votes cast by the delegates from the 21 local government areas of the state, Governor Soludo was returned unopposed by 3,168 votes, four votes were recorded as invalid votes, while there was no votes recorded against the governor.

In his acceptance speech, Governor Soludo thanked the delegates for reposing their confidence in him and pledged to redouble his efforts to move the state to the next level.

The governor took the delegates down the memory lane of his campaign promises which manifested in the various landmark achievements his administration has recorded within three years in office.

He urged the Anambra electorate to do the needful by complementing his genuine efforts to reposition the state to higher levels.

Governor Soludo further used the occasion to announce his choice to re nominate his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim as his running mate for the November 8th Governorship election in the state.

The member representing Ihiala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Right Honourable Dr Paschal Agbodike in response to the governor’s victory at the polls, asked the Anambra electorate to remain focused by voting for the governor at the November 8th Governorship election in the state. Dr. Agbodike used the forum to eulogize the governor for bringing unprecedented development in the state.

On his part, the Mayor of Ihiala Local Area, Chief Anayochukwu Orjiakor extolled the governor for bringing development down to the grassroot.

An APGA chieftain and the APGA State Vice Chairman for the Anambra South Senatorial zone, Chief Surplus Ewuzie commended Governor Soludo for simultaneously developing the 21 LGAs in the state.

According to Chief Ewuzie ,Governor Soludo deserves a second term in office, and used the forum to thank the delegates from Ihiala LGA who turned out en masse to support the governor.

A former Mayor, Ihiala LGA, Chief Bartholomew Awugosi also commended Governor Soludo for his unprecedented development thrust in the state.

In their separate remarks, a former Mayor of Anaocha LGA, Chief Ikem Ejiofor,an APGA chieftain, Chief Jude Emecheta ,and the former Attorney -General for the state and state Commissioner for Justice, Dr Uju Nwogu showered encomiums on the governor for his positive achievements in the state.

The trio further commended the governor for re nominating his deputy Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim as running mate for the November 8th Governorship election in the state.

Others who acknowledged Governor Soludo’s giant strides at three years in office and endorsed his renomination as the party’s flagbearer for the November 8th Governorship election in the state included the state Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Mr. Julius Chukwuemeka an Engineer and the President General of Mbosi Town Union, Pastor Azuka Okolie.

The state Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor who was one of the delegates and dignitaries that graced the occasion ,expressed joy that APGA as a political party has re affirmed the commitment of its members to the party and their support for the governor.

* Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION DEDICATES NEW BUILDING COMPLEX AMID PREPARATIONS FOR EASTER

By Michael Ezenwata

The Chairman, Anambra State Civil Service Commission, Mr. Anthony Ezenwaka has announced the dedication of the Civil Service Commission Complex in Awka to God to commence full operations.

In a post dedication public statement on the epoch making event, Mr.Ezenwaka noted that the event was marked by a mass celebration to give honour to God for actualizing the dream of the entire commission staff.

According to the Commission boss,Governor Chukwuma Soludo will take the credit for breaking the 33 – year- old jinx of renovating the complex ,akin to a journey to Golgotha,and for his admirable development strategy which has touched all sectors of the economy.

In appreciation,he pledged on behalf of the commission to further promote professionalism, diligence and hardwork in its work output to enhance a more robust civil service.

Mr.Ezenwaka who doubles as the President General of Achina Town Union felicitated with Christians as they prepare for their Easter celebration, urging them to be guided by the demands of the season such as Prayer, Almsgiving and Penance.

On his part,the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr.Tochukwu Obodogha leveraged on the demands of the season to wish the staff of the ministry a fruitful Holy week and a happy Easter celebration.

Mr.Obodogha further commended Governor Soludo’s giant strides in all sectors of the economy, including the Environment Ministry where his environmental protection policies are working.

Contributing,a former Chancellor of the Awka Catholic Diocese, Very Reverend Monsignor Prof John Paul Nzomiwu urged leaders to utilize the period of Easter to impact on giving the masses hope and easing their sufferings just like Jesus Christ did in dying for the sins of Mankind.

* Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

GOVERNOR SOLUDO MOURNS THE DEATH OF FORMER SUPER EAGLES CAPTAIN, CHRISTIAN CHUKWU

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has mourned the passing of Mr. Christian Chukwu, a distinguished football icon and a true patriot, who died on Saturday 12, April 2025.

In his condolence message, Governor Soludo stated that Mr. Christian Chukwu’s name is etched in the annals of Nigerian football history and his contributions to the development of the sport in our nation are immeasurable, leading the national team in winning the Nations Cup (AFCON) in 1980

The Governor noted that as a player, he was a colossus, a formidable defender and a leader of men, captaining the legendary Enugu Rangers International Football Club and the national team, the Green Eagles now Super Eagles, with unrelenting dedication and exemplary skill.

His leadership on the field earned him the nickname “Chairman,” inspiring generations of footballers and igniting a passion for the beautiful game across the country.

The Governor also recalled that Mr. Chukwu’s tenure as coach of the Super Eagles further solidified his legacy, as he guided the team with his characteristic wisdom and tactical acumen. His commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a spirit of unity within the team left an indelible mark on the Nigerian football landscape

Therefore, Governor Soludo consoles the family of Mr. Christian Chukwu, the Nigerian football fraternity, and all who mourn his passing, praying that his soul rest in perfect peace.

Signed,

*Christian Aburime*

Press Secretary to the Governor

April 12, 2025

ANAMBRA KEEPS RISING AS GOVERNOR SOLUDO WINS VANGUARD NEWSPAPERS 2024 ‘GOOD GOVERNANCE AWARD’

By Christian ABURIME

In a resplendent, glitzy and well-attended ceremony at the Convention Centre of the upscale Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday April 11, 2025, the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, added another merited accolade to his growing list of honours, clinching the ‘Vanguard Good Governance Award 2024’, presented by Vanguard Newspapers.

The event, which celebrated Nigeria’s most impactful leaders, served not only as a recognition of excellence but also as a reaffirmation of Governor Soludo’s transformational three-year tenure in Anambra, a tenure that has redefined governance as a vehicle for pragmatic solutions and inclusive growth.

Indeed, it was a night of shine and substance. Celebrating outstanding achievements, as affirmed in the brief welcome remarks by Editor Eze Anaba, the Vanguard Awards brought together Nigeria’s political, business, royal and cultural elite.

Mr. Atedo Peterside, Chairman of the occasion, captured the mood succinctly: “The gathering is awesome, a convergence of those rewriting Nigeria’s story.” Truly, the evening was as much about legacy as it was about laurels.

While successful businessmen, education investors, and billionaires, Dr. Adedeji Adeleke took home the Personality of the Year award, the spotlight equally beamed on exceptional governors like Soludo, whose policies have turned subnational governance into a laboratory of innovation in their respective states.

For Governor Soludo, the Vanguard honour arrives just months after being named SUN Newspaper’s Governor of the Year 2024, and this dual media recognition now underscores his unique blend of technocratic rigour and pragmatic leadership.

In Soludo’s Anambra, it has been a story of from Promise to Progress. Since assuming office in March 2022, Governor Soludo, a former Central Bank Governor and economist, has pursued what he terms a “people’s agenda” with relentless focus.

His administration’s pillars, anchored on security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, urban renewal, economic diversification and more, have become more than slogans. The multidimensional impact, often achieved amidst fiscal constraints, reflect Governor Soludo’s philosophy that development is not about grand announcements; it is about granular execution. It is also about doing more with less and without borrowing!

In his remarks, Vanguard Editor Eze Anaba emphasized that the awards were not merely for popularity but for verifiable impact. For Governor Soludo, this rings true and through. Yet, three years on, his results speak louder than rhetoric. The impact is verifiable.

No wonder, the SUN and Vanguard awards, both decided by rigorous verifications of development projects prioritising data over dazzle, validate the Soludo approach. One can say that Governor Soludo treats governance like a serious business: iterative, agile, and user-centric. Anambra is his MVP, and it is scaling fast.

Yet, while the awards celebrate past and ongoing achievements, Governor Soludo’s eyes remain fixed on the future. Challenges will always exist, but his administration’s methodical pace suggests confidence rather than complacency.

As the governor would have remarked after receiving the award, every honour is a debt owed to the people and the good work in Anambra has just begun. Now with his recent ratification as APGA candidate for a second term and overwhelming nonpartisan endorsements for Anambra’s November 2025 election, Governor Soludo is poised to turn Anambra into a blueprint for Nigeria’s subnational revival.

While Nigeria keeps contending with its own national questions, Governor Soludo’s story, of a professor-turned-politician delivering functional solutions and measurable progress, may well become a case study in award-winning leadership. For now, Anambra’s renaissance continues, one solution at a time.