By Emeka Ilozor
The Member representing Njikoka Constituency 1 in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Chidi Ibemeka, FCAI, has congratulated the people of Anambra State on the 35th anniversary of the creation of the state, describing the milestone as a celebration of resilience, enterprise, cultural heritage and the indomitable spirit of Ndi Anambra.
Ibemeka, who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum and Mineral Resources, said the 35 years of Anambra’s existence had demonstrated what a determined and enterprising people could achieve through hard work, unity and visionary leadership.
In a goodwill message marking the anniversary, titled “Anambra @ 35: Rooted in Heritage, Rising in Enterprise,” the lawmaker said the state had continued to shine as the “Light of the Nation”, driven by the contributions of Anambra people at home and in the diaspora.
He noted that the state’s achievements could be seen across various sectors, from the commercial activities of Onitsha to Awka’s emerging innovation ecosystem, Nnewi’s industrial strength and the rich cultural traditions that have continued to distinguish Anambra nationally and internationally.
According to him, the journey of the past 35 years has been sustained by the contributions of successive leaders, founding fathers, entrepreneurs, professionals, workers, youths, women and other citizens who have invested their time, resources and talents in the development of the state.
«“Today, we celebrate 35 years of Anambra State — 35 years of resilience, enterprise, and the indomitable spirit of our people,” Ibemeka said.»
He paid tribute to the founding fathers and past leaders of the state, as well as every Anambra son and daughter whose contributions have helped shape the state’s development trajectory.
The lawmaker observed that Anambra had, over the years, built institutions and enterprises that have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development, while its people had distinguished themselves in education, business, industry, technology, culture and other fields of human endeavour.
Ibemeka, however, stressed that the anniversary should not only be a moment of celebration but also an opportunity for renewed commitment to the future.
He identified security, youth empowerment, infrastructure development and the creation of sustainable economic opportunities as critical areas that must remain priorities in the state’s continued development.
He said the collective aspiration should be to build an Anambra that remains a preferred destination to live, work and invest, while ensuring that the benefits of development reach communities and citizens across the state.
“To my people of Anambra, this anniversary is not just about remembering where we started. It is about recommitting to the Anambra of our dreams,” he said.
Ibemeka further called on Ndi Anambra to continue embracing the spirit of “akụ ruo ụlọ” — wealth that builds the home — stressing the importance of using individual and collective success to strengthen families, communities and the state.
He expressed optimism that with unity, vision, hard work and sustained commitment to good governance and development, the next 35 years of Anambra State would be even greater.
“Together, we will ensure the next 35 years are even greater. Congratulations to us all.
“Indeed, we are the Light of the Nation!” he declared.
