Anambra Government Orders Building Repainting in Major Anambra Cities to Enhance Urban Aesthetics

 

The Anambra State Government has launched a city-wide directive targeting urban beautification, requiring property owners and occupants to repaint unpainted buildings within key urban areas. This initiative, officially communicated through the Ministry of Environment, affects structures located in prominent public view across Onitsha, Awka, Nkpor, Nnewi and Ekwulobia. The move signals a deliberate step by the state to elevate its environmental and aesthetic standards, as part of broader efforts to improve the appearance and impression of its urban centers.

Across several parts of these cities, faded, dusty or completely unpainted structures have long stood as an eyesore, undermining the evolving vision of a modern Anambra. The government’s directive is positioned as not just a cosmetic campaign but a strategic push toward cleanliness, orderliness and pride of place. According to the circular released by the ministry, compliance with the repainting order is expected to commence immediately, with an emphasis on buildings easily visible from major roads and public spaces.

Government officials emphasize that this initiative is not punitive but rather corrective and restorative. The Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Felix Odimegwu, explained that the policy will contribute to reducing the visual clutter often associated with decaying urban infrastructure. Speaking to reporters at the Ministry’s headquarters in Awka, he stated, “We are trying to reimagine our urban identity. Our cities must not only function efficiently, they must also look the part. The physical environment influences how people feel and interact with their surroundings. A cleaner and well-maintained city uplifts everyone.”

Though the directive appears straightforward, some residents have voiced mixed feelings about the government’s timing and approach. For landlords already grappling with economic challenges, the cost of repainting may not be trivial. Mrs. Chinwe Okafor, a property owner in Nkpor, acknowledged the long-term benefit of the policy but questioned whether the government might offer any form of subsidy or phased compliance. “We understand the idea and appreciate the effort to beautify our town. But some of us need a little time or assistance to meet these expectations,” she said.

Despite concerns from some quarters, the general reception to the plan has been largely positive, especially among younger residents and urban planners. They view the directive as part of a welcome shift in city management, one that mirrors successful models in other Nigerian states and international cities. Urban designer and architect Uche Nwosu described the repainting policy as a small but meaningful step in the long process of creating walkable, visually pleasant cities. “It is more than just color on walls. It is about creating identity, civic pride and setting the tone for further infrastructural improvements,” he noted.

To support compliance, the Ministry of Environment has signaled that a monitoring and evaluation task force will soon begin assessments in affected areas. Property owners found to be in violation may receive reminders and, if necessary, face environmental citations. However, the ministry assures the public that its focus remains on awareness, education and collaboration. The commissioner noted that community-based organizations and town unions would also be enlisted to spread the message and facilitate execution.

Aside from the visual benefits, there are practical implications for the policy as well. A freshly painted building resists weathering better, boosts property value and often serves as a deterrent to vandalism or unauthorized posters and graffiti. In areas like Onitsha and Nnewi where commercial buildings dominate the skyline, clean and colorful facades may enhance customer appeal and foot traffic.

Religious institutions, educational establishments and market associations have also been encouraged to take the lead in implementing the directive. Some churches and schools in Awka and Ekwulobia have already commenced repainting projects, hoping to set a precedent for others. The Ministry is also considering incentives for early compliance, such as public recognition or award certificates for the cleanest and most visually appealing buildings in each locality.

Ultimately, this campaign to repaint buildings is part of a larger vision to redefine the narrative of Anambra’s cities. The government sees it as one foundational layer in an evolving picture that includes improved road networks, green spaces, proper waste management and citizen-led urban renewal. As residents begin to roll out ladders, paint buckets and brushes, they are not merely following an order but participating in a collective effort to transform the look and feel of their urban environment.

With vibrant facades slowly emerging across streets once draped in peeling paint and dull concrete, a new chapter of urban identity is being written across Anambra State, one brushstroke at a time.