Introduction
Since assuming office on March 17, 2022, Professor Chukwuma
Soludo has embarked on a mission to redefine governance in Anambra State. His
administration has focused on infrastructural development, education,
healthcare, poverty alleviation, human dignity, equality, and inclusion. While
his tenure has been marked by significant progress, some challenges remain.
This article provides a brief review of his achievements, areas
requiring improvement, and his vision for the future.
Infrastructural Development
Governor Soludo has prioritized road construction and urban
renewal, awarding over 739.6 kilometres of roads across the state, with 420 kilometres
already completed. His administration has also undertaken the dualization of
major highways, including the Ekwulobia Road and its massive flyovers, the
Nnobi-Nnewi Road, as well as the Amansea-Ufuma Road. Additionally, the largest
urban slum, Okpoko, has been transformed into a modern environment with functional
electricity, water supply, drainage systems, and solar-powered streetlights.
Education
Recognizing the importance of education, Soludo’s government
has recruited over 8,000 teachers to improve the quality of instruction in
public schools. His administration has also provided ₦1.42 billion in grants to
returned mission schools and ₦700 million to mission tertiary institutions. For
the first time, Pentecostal-owned schools received government funding, ensuring
inclusivity in education.
Healthcare
The healthcare sector has seen notable improvements,
including the employment of medical professionals across general hospitals,
primary healthcare centres, and regional health facilities. His administration
has also restored clean and regular water supply to urban and rural areas after
decades of non-functional projects. Plans are underway to establish a Comprehensive
Oncology Centre to address the rising cancer burden in Nigeria.
Poverty Alleviation and Economic Growth
Through the One Youth, Two Skills Initiative, thousands of
young people have received vocational training and financial support. The Anambra
State Small Business Agency has provided over ₦1 billion in funding to
entrepreneurs, including the establishment of a digital shoe production factory
in Ogbunike. Additionally, 2.6 million improved seedlings have been distributed
to 142,000 households to boost agricultural productivity.
Human Dignity, Equality, and Inclusion
Governor Soludo has championed inclusive governance, ensuring
digital transformation in the judiciary with solar-powered courtrooms, small
claims courts, and Nigeria’s first Bureau of Missing Persons. His
administration has also launched Operation Udo Ga Achi and Agunechemba security
networks, significantly improving security across the state.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
Despite these achievements, some areas require further
attention:
- Security Concerns: While progress has been made, criminal activities persist in Ihiala, Orumba South and Ogbaru LGAs, requiring sustained intervention.
- Infrastructure Delays: Some road projects remain incomplete, affecting connectivity in certain regions.
- Healthcare Accessibility: While improvements have been made, rural healthcare facilities still require enhanced resources and personnel.
Plans for the Next Five Years
Looking ahead, Governor Soludo has outlined an ambitious
vision for his second term:
- Smart Cities Development: Plans to establish Awka 2.0, Next Onitsha, and the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City to boost economic activity and sustainability.
- State-Wide Rail Network: Implementation of the Anambra Transport Masterplan, featuring rail connectivity, Bus Rapid Transit systems, and digital ticketing.
- Healthcare Expansion: Establishment of a Comprehensive Oncology Centre and expansion of telemedicine infrastructure to improve healthcare access.
- Tourism Development: Transformation of Ogbunike Caves, Owerre-Ezukala Waterfalls, and Agulu Lake into eco-tourism hubs.
- Education and Youth Empowerment: Launch of a comprehensive bursary scheme to ensure no student is left behind.
Conclusion
Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s tenure has been marked by bold
reforms and transformative projects, positioning Anambra State as a model for
sustainable development. While challenges remain, his vision for the future
promises continued progress in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and
economic empowerment. If successfully implemented, his second term could
solidify Anambra’s status as a green, livable, and prosperous homeland.
Sources
"Soludo’s
3 Years in Office, A Sterling Model of Disruptive Solution, in Anambra Times", March
18, 2025, https://anambratimes.ng/soludos-3-years-in-office-a-sterling-model-of-disruptive-solution/
"Commentary:
Three Years of Soludo’s Transformational Administration", Ejike Abana, March 17,
2025. https://www.absradiotv.com/2025/03/17/commentary-three-years-of-soludos-transformational-administration/
"Soludo
outlines second term vision, promises smart cities, rail, others" in Punch
Newspaper, Ikenna Obianaeri, April 30, 2025. https://punchng.com/soludo-outlines-second-term-vision-promises-smart-cities-rail-others/
"Soludo’s
track record of performance, character and probity" in Vanguard, Emma Ibeleme,
April 24, 2025. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/04/soludos-track-record-of-performance-character-and-probity/
"Anambra State Governor Unveils Second Term Vision" in Voice of Nigeria, Chinwe Onuigbo, May 1, 2025. https://von.gov.ng/anambra-state-governor-unveils-second-term-vision/
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