By Anazonwu Chizoba Vivian
As Anambra State marks 35 years of its creation, the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the journey of a state whose story has been shaped by enterprise, resilience, innovation and the determination of its people.
Created on Aug. 27, 1991, Anambra has, over the years, carved a distinctive place for itself in Nigeria’s development story.
From business and education to politics, science, religion and the creative sector, the state has produced personalities whose contributions have extended far beyond its borders.
Yet, at 35, the celebration should go beyond recounting past achievements. It is also a moment to take stock, confront the challenges that persist and ask a fundamental question: what kind of Anambra do its people want to leave for the next generation?
Under Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the state government has made infrastructure, human capital development, security, economic transformation and environmental sustainability key areas of its development agenda.
The administration says more than 900 kilometres of roads are under construction across the state, with about 600 kilometres already asphalted, alongside major bridge and road dualisation projects.
In education and healthcare, the government has also highlighted investments in smart schools, primary healthcare centres, hospitals and other human capital development programmes.
Beyond the figures and projects, however, the real measure of development remains its impact on the everyday lives of the people. Roads must improve connectivity and commerce; schools must produce better learning outcomes; healthcare facilities must be accessible; and economic policies must create opportunities for citizens to thrive.
Security is equally central to the state’s development aspirations. At his second term inauguration in March 2026, Soludo declared that the Monday sit at home order had ended in Anambra, saying schools, markets, businesses and public services had returned to normal operations.
For a state whose economy depends heavily on commerce and human interaction, sustained peace and security remain essential to unlocking its full economic potential.
Anambra’s 35th anniversary, therefore, should not be viewed merely as a celebration of age. It should be a moment to honour the sacrifices of past leaders and citizens, acknowledge the progress made, confront areas where more work is required and renew the collective commitment to building a better state.
As Anambra begins its 35th year, its journey remains a work in progress. The next chapter will depend not only on government policies and investments but also on the commitment of businesses, traditional institutions, religious organisations, young people and citizens across the state.
The task is collective: to preserve what works, correct what does not and build an Anambra that is more prosperous, peaceful, inclusive and liveable for generations to come.
Anazonwu Chizoba Vivian is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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