…Anyaoku, Soludo, Southeast stakeholders hail President’s visit
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday paid a one-day working visit to Anambra State, where he commissioned legacy projects and reiterated his administration’s commitment to the infrastructural, economic, and human capital development of the Southeast region.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Solution Fun City and the Government House Mini-City in Awka—flagship projects of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration—President Tinubu described Anambra as a land of enterprise, intellect, and innovation, pledging continued federal collaboration to fast-track its transformation into a global investment destination.
“Anambra has long stood as a beacon of commerce, intellect, and cultural strength — a pride not only to the Southeast but to Nigeria as a whole,” Tinubu said.
Reflecting on his campaign visit to Anambra over two years ago, the President recounted his earlier promise to work with Governor Soludo, whom he described as a “brilliant man” and “a long-time friend since 2003.”
“From what I have seen and heard, a solid foundation is being laid, and Anambra is indeed on the rise,” Tinubu said. “We are working together for a better Anambra and a better Nigeria.”
Highlighting the transformative vision behind the state’s development agenda—tagged the African-Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley (ADTS) model—Tinubu likened Soludo’s ambition to the bold leadership that turned Dubai from a desert into a global hub. He assured the people of Anambra that the Federal Government would work closely with the state to confront its most pressing challenges.
The President acknowledged requests presented by the state government, including a state of emergency on erosion, integration into the national gas and rail masterplans, revival of the Onitsha River Port, and reimbursement for over N150 billion spent by the state on federal roads.
“Only a bold government can break the 43-year-old jinx of the dormant Onitsha River Port. I assure you: we are listening, and we will act,” Tinubu said.
He also lauded the state’s efforts in improving security, pledging continued federal support in securing the lives and properties of Ndi Anambra and all Nigerians.
In his broader national message, Tinubu emphasized the necessity of his administration’s tough economic reforms, citing the removal of fuel subsidies, forex stabilization, tax reforms, and the new national minimum wage. He praised the Anambra government for exceeding the new wage benchmark, calling it “a reflection of responsive governance.”
“We met a near-insolvent economy, but stability is returning. Investor confidence is on the rise. We are working to ensure no part of Nigeria is left behind in this renewed hope journey,” he added.
Earlier at a town hall meeting with critical stakeholders held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, welcomed the President, describing Nigeria as “a complex task to govern,” while calling for sustained prayers for Tinubu’s leadership.
“As every discerning observer knows, governing Nigeria is a very complex task,” Anyaoku said. “I am sure many others like me will continue to pray that God will give you the wisdom to steer the ship of this country in the right direction.”
He recalled Tinubu’s prior visit to Anambra during his 80th birthday and praised his track record as a NADECO leader committed to democratic values.
Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Southeast zone, Lady Adadiorama Dozie, commended the President for his leadership strides.
“We are seeing changes now, which means you are teaching us that good governance is key to development,” she noted.
President Tinubu concluded his visit on a personal note, expressing gratitude for the chieftaincy title conferred on him by the traditional rulers of Anambra State. Recalling his 2005 title of Omenife Awka, he said the latest recognition makes him “a bona fide son of the soil.”
“Maybe my friend and your governor, Charles Soludo, should find me a plot of land for my retirement home after service,” he joked, drawing applause.
“Anambra is rising. Nigeria is rising. And with your continued support, we will get there together,” Tinubu declared.
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