Anambra Stands Still as Governor Soludo Marks Three Years in Office with Grand Thanksgiving

 

Anambra State came to a standstill as Governor Chukwuma Soludo marked his third anniversary in office with a grand Pontifical Thanksgiving Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Parish, Awka. The event, attended by esteemed clergy, top government officials, and distinguished personalities, underscored the governor’s accomplishments and his vision for the future.

The high-profile mass was presided over by His Eminence, Peter Cardinal Okpalaeke, alongside co-officiating prelates Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor of the Awka Catholic Diocese, Bishop Jonas Benson of the Nnewi Catholic Diocese, and Bishop Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese. More than a hundred priests also participated in the solemn occasion.

Bishop Kukah Applauds Soludo’s Leadership

Delivering a thought-provoking homily, Bishop Kukah commended Governor Soludo for addressing critical needs in education, healthcare, and industrialization. He noted that these advancements have positioned Anambra as a model for other Nigerian states and an attractive hub for investors. The revered cleric encouraged Soludo to remain focused on his mission, emphasizing the importance of staying true to those who contributed to his journey.

In a broader national context, Bishop Kukah criticized the continued activities of Boko Haram, which he described as a threat to Western education and national progress. He urged the federal government to learn from Anambra’s developmental strides and implement similar initiatives to restore Nigeria’s global standing.

Soludo’s Vision: Anambra as Africa’s Dubai, Taiwan, and Silicon Valley

Addressing the congregation, Governor Soludo reflected on his administration’s achievements over the past three years. Declaring that the journey had been "so far, so good," he reassured citizens of his unwavering commitment to transforming Anambra into the Dubai, Taiwan, and Silicon Valley of Africa.

His administration, he said, is built on human and material capital development, emphasizing unity under a common vision. Soludo called on residents to align with his developmental blueprint to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for the state.

Widespread Support for Soludo’s Leadership

Dignitaries at the event took turns affirming their confidence in Soludo’s leadership. Dr. Paschal Agbodike, a federal lawmaker representing Ihiala Federal Constituency, praised the governor’s developmental agenda and urged the people of Anambra to support his re-election for a second term.

Dr. Agbodike, an aspirant for the Anambra South Senatorial by-election, described the governor’s administration as one that is steering the state toward the "Promised Land."

Similarly, Chief Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, Chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo in Anambra, lauded the governor for driving development across all sectors and encouraged citizens to sustain the momentum by backing him for a second term.

More Voices of Endorsement

The state’s Civil Service Commission Chairman, Mr. Anthony Ezenwaka, acknowledged the governor’s efforts in simultaneous sectoral development and urged residents to offer their unwavering support.

In another show of solidarity, Sir Cyril Anetoh, a COREN Inspector and President-General of the Adazi Nnukwu community, highlighted the administration’s inclusive governance. He praised Soludo for ensuring that all 21 local government areas (LGAs) felt the impact of his leadership.

Adding to the chorus of commendations, Chief Sylva Ezeabasilim, a two-time former Chairman of Idemili South LGA, described Soludo’s achievements in three years as remarkable.

Distinguished Guests Honor the Occasion

The grand event witnessed the presence of notable personalities, including the governor’s wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, and Secretary to the State Government, Professor Solomon Chukwulobelu.

Others in attendance included the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu, prominent industrialist Chief Emeka Offor, and traditional rulers such as Igwe Chidubem Iweka, Igwe Benjamin Okeji, and Igwe Frederick Okoli.

Conclusion

Governor Soludo’s third anniversary celebration was not just a thanksgiving event but a resounding endorsement of his administration’s impact. With widespread support from political leaders, religious figures, and community stakeholders, the momentum for his vision of a transformed Anambra continues to grow. As he looks ahead, Soludo remains steadfast in his resolve to make Anambra a beacon of progress in Nigeria and beyond.