Anambra Govt. Seeks Non-Indigenes’ Support in Tackling Security Challenges

 

The Anambra State Government has called on non-indigenous residents to become active partners in the ongoing efforts to address security challenges across the state. This appeal was made by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, during a courtesy visit by members of the Association of Non-Indigenes Welfare in Anambra State (ANISA-ANIAS) to his office in Awka.

Dr. Mefor, while receiving the delegation, emphasized the importance of collaboration and community involvement in the state’s fight against criminal activities. He acknowledged the positive role many non-indigenes have played in the development of Anambra, while also urging them to take a more proactive role in identifying and eliminating criminal elements among them.

“Security is everybody’s business. We cannot afford to overlook the facts—we have data indicating that a significant number of criminals arrested in the state are non-indigenes,” Mefor stated candidly. “This is not to generalize or to stigmatize, but to call for action. The good people among you must help us identify the bad eggs who are tarnishing your image and putting communities at risk.”

The Commissioner praised the non-indigene community for its contributions to the economic and social growth of Anambra. He highlighted several areas where Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration has extended inclusive development, including employment, education, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and health services—benefits that have not excluded residents from other parts of the country.

Dr. Mefor also pointed to initiatives such as the 1Youth 2Skills programme and the Solution Innovation District (SID) as examples of the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic inclusion. Over 30,000 individuals, according to him, have already been trained and empowered through these platforms.

“The governor’s programmes are open to all law-abiding residents. Anyone genuinely interested in turning a new leaf and earning a decent living has an open door,” he said. “We will do everything within our power, even through my office, to place such individuals within SID to enable them live responsibly and productively.”

He stressed that the Ministry of Information is open to working hand-in-hand with groups such as ANISA-ANIAS to promote peace, share accurate information, and amplify the good works of Governor Soludo's administration.

In response, Chief Ikechukwu Ugwuoke, President General of ANISA-ANIAS, expressed the group’s appreciation for the Commissioner’s openness and reiterated their commitment to supporting the state government’s developmental and security agenda. He was joined by Igwe Amos Nkwuda, the traditional leader of non-indigenes in Anambra, who also pledged full support to Governor Soludo’s leadership and his re-election bid.

The delegation commended the governor’s inclusive governance style and applauded the Commissioner on the occasion of his 60th birthday. They described him as a man of vision and dedication whose role in government continues to bridge gaps between the administration and various stakeholder communities in the state.

As insecurity remains a top concern across many parts of the country, Anambra's government is now looking beyond conventional methods and calling on residents—indigenous or otherwise—to become watchdogs and contributors to peace in the communities they live and work in.

The message from the state is clear: security is not just a government responsibility—it is a collective effort, and everyone must play their part.