By Dr. Clem Aguiyi Esq
In a momentous occasion that signifies a new chapter in federal-state cooperation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, unlike his predecessor, is set to visit Anambra State on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
Anambra represents a lot to the South Easterners. Hence, this visit is unlike any other. I am elated to join Mr. Governor and the good people of Anambra State in welcoming the President to the State. Mr. President, you and your powerful entourage are most welcome to Anambra.
This landmark event not only underscores the your commitment to the Southeast region’s progress but also highlights the spirit of collaboration between the federal government and Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s administration
President Tinubu’s leadership style is a beacon of hope for a brighter future. His willingness to transcend partisan lines and build an inclusive government is a testament to his dedication to national unity. The appointments of Lady Bianca Ojukwu as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Mark Okoye as Managing Director of the South East Development Commission are shining examples of his commitment to meritocracy and inclusiveness. These appointments demonstrate that the President values competence and expertise over partisan party affiliation, a quality that is essential for Nigeria’s growth and development. I commend the president for supporting the prosperity and progress of Anambra despite receiving 0.83% of the total votes in Anambra State during the 2023 presidential election, which translates to 5,101 votes. The majority of votes in Anambra State went to Peter Obi of the Labour Party, who secured 95.30% of the total votes with 584,372 votes. By this visit , the president will certainly have more friends and supporters in the state . “One good turn,” they say, “deserves another.”
The President’s visit to Anambra State is a significant boost to the region’s infrastructural and economic development.
The commissioning of key projects executed by Governor Soludo’s administration will not only enhance the state’s infrastructure but also send a strong message to investors and development partners that Anambra is open for business. This is a crucial step towards stimulating economic growth and creating opportunities for the people of Anambra.
The president’s visit provides a rare opportunity for Governor Soludo to bring to his attention some of the state’s pressing needs. Security challenges, erosion, and economic development are some of the critical issues that require federal support. The state government has made significant strides in addressing these challenges, but more needs to be done. The president’s support will be instrumental in tackling these issues and unlocking the state’s potential. Already , the president, while visiting Katsina, expressed the need to activate a multi layer approach to the nations security challenges. It is envisaged that these multi-level approaches will drive security down to community level. On this score, there may be a template to be borrowed from the new Anambra Security Law.
As President Tinubu visits Anambra State, we urge him to consider the following critical areas that require federal support:
Security: Increased federal investment in surveillance and intelligence gathering will enhance precision in security operations.
Erosion: Anambra is the most impacted state by gully erosion. The federal government should provide urgent support and resources to tackle the escalating menace of gully erosion, which threatens lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
Economic Development: The designation of Anambra as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will provide critical tax incentives, stimulate manufacturing, and attract foreign direct investment.
Infrastructure: Anambra still needs a lot of federal presence to boast. The low hanging fruits will be the full activation of the Onitsha River Port and the enhancement of cargo handling and customs clearance facilities at the Chinua Achebe International Airport. These will promote trade and commerce, which Anambara is A’ classed.
President Tinubu’s visit to Anambra State without doubt marks the beginning of a new chapter in federal-state cooperation. With bold leadership from both ends, the aspirations of the Anambra people for progress, prosperity, and partnership can be fully realized.
I commend the President’s visionary leadership and commitment to building a brighter future for all Nigerians.
