Governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, has called for a targeted federal reconstruction programme for the South-East, likening it to the Marshall Plan, alongside equitable distribution of national infrastructure, including highways, gas pipelines, rail lines and seaports.
Soludo, while acknowledging ongoing federal projects under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, described the president as “cerebral, courageous, and patriotic,” and urged the South-East to maintain constructive engagement with the current administration.
He commended projects such as the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway and the Second Niger Bridge corridor, while expressing expectations for the timely execution of approved requests.
These, he noted, include the region’s inclusion in national gas and rail masterplans, as well as the dredging of the River Niger to enable operations at the Onitsha River Port.
Addressing residents, the governor stressed the need for collective responsibility in driving development, noting that government alone cannot achieve the desired progress. He urged citizens to fulfil civic duties such as tax payment, law compliance, and active participation in governance.
Soludo also appealed to members of the diaspora to invest in the state, emphasising shared responsibility in advancing development.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the governor said he, alongside his deputy and cabinet, would dedicate the next four years to transforming Anambra into a livable and prosperous smart mega city. He described the mission as personal, expressing a desire to build a state where future generations can thrive.
In his remarks, Vice President Kashim Shettima lauded Soludo’s leadership, describing him as a courageous democrat devoted to public service. He said the governor’s re-election reflects the confidence and trust of the people, adding that governance should prioritise citizens’ welfare over partisan interests.
Shettima also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s readiness to partner with Anambra State in advancing national development.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, the Ooni of Ife Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Obi of Onitsha Alfred Achebe, businessman Emeka Offor, and former minister Chris Ngige, among others.