By Ifeyinwa Ogwo
The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has committed to driving significant transformation across all sectors in the next four years. His goal is to accelerate efforts to build sustainable foundations for prosperity for future generations and to institutionalise lasting changes within a “build to last” framework.
“Today marks a new chapter. The road ahead is still long, and much work remain. I am not focused on celebrating past steps but on the billions of steps still to come. Our focus is not on the next election but on the next generation,” he said during his swearing-in ceremony with Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim at the recently renovated Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka.
Governor Soludo revealed plans to launch four new cities and districts, including Niger City near Onitsha, Awka 2.0 City, the Anambra Mixed-use Industrial City (AMIC), and the Airotropolis and Innovation district—expected to become the state’s Silicon Valley. “The Mixed-use Industrial City, an Airotropolis, has been approved by the President as an Economic Free-trade Zone, with construction underway. The CPCS of Canada has completed the Anambra Railway masterplan, and our gas Masterplan is ready.
“Anambra’s land is developing chaotically, urgently requiring a physical masterplan. That’s why we are strategically securing land for future growth as a “Land Bank,” he explained.
The Governor added that a 5-star hotel is being built at the International Convention Centre (ICC), and the Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC)—West Africa’s largest drug market is expected to be commissioned in early 2027. “These projects are more than buildings; they are foundations for better living, creating thousands of jobs, enhancing electricity and transportation access, boosting business opportunities, expanding trades, and attracting private investment.
“In a few years, we will deliver the second airport and a developing city around it, with plans set for a third airport to ensure a lasting legacy for future generations,” he said.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, and former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. The oath of office was administered by Chief Judge Justice Onochie Anyachebelu, and the ceremony featured a Nigerian Police parade.
Ifeyinwa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
