By Ayomide Otitoju
As the November 8 gubernatorial election in Anambra State approaches, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has outlined his administration’s achievements and expressed confidence in the people’s support for his re-election. Speaking during a Channels TV One-on-One interview on Sunday, Soludo highlighted strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic growth, agriculture, security, and youth empowerment.
The governor said his administration’s goal is to transform Anambra into a destination state rather than a “departure lounge.” He noted that several towns and cities have been revitalized, citing Okpoko in Onitsha — once a notorious slum — as a model of urban regeneration now featuring paved roads, a general hospital, streetlights, and pipe-borne water.
On security, Soludo credited the Homeland Security Law and the establishment of the state-backed Agunechemba network and Operation Udo Ga-Achi for restoring peace to communities once under siege. “Anambra is now adjudged one of the safest states in Nigeria,” he said, revealing that both kinetic and non-kinetic measures, including amnesty programs, have led thousands of criminals to surrender.
He added that previously troubled areas such as Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba, and Ogbaru have been liberated. “We cannot be transforming Anambra while harbouring criminals,” Soludo declared.
Highlighting youth empowerment, the governor said over 8,300 beneficiaries have received grants through the One Youth, Two Skills Plus program, with more than 30,000 trained in digital and vocational skills. “Over 5,000 of them now see themselves as young millionaires and are employing others,” he said, emphasizing the revival of Igbo apprenticeship culture.
On infrastructure, Soludo disclosed that nearly 1,000 kilometres of new roads are under construction, with about 700 already completed, alongside major highway dualization projects, flyovers, and bridges. Including rehabilitation works under the “zero pothole” initiative, he said almost 2,000 kilometres of roads have been made motorable.
The governor also announced plans for a new industrial city supported by a 30-kilometre powerline to boost job creation. In education, he highlighted the introduction of free schooling from kindergarten through secondary level and the recruitment of over 8,000 teachers to revamp public education. “Our schools are now smart schools, winning national awards. What is good for the Anambra child is to be taught by the best teachers,” he said.
On campaign funding, Soludo claimed that his re-election efforts are being supported directly by citizens. “People are funding and organizing rallies with their own money, donating millions in appreciation for the development projects in their areas,” he stated.
Governor Soludo reiterated his commitment to consolidating the progress recorded in his first term, pledging continued reforms to secure a prosperous and inclusive Anambra State.
