As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, visits Anambra State tomorrow, his presence marks a milestone in federal-state cooperation and signals a significant boost to infrastructural and economic development in Nigeria’s Southeast. The visit, centered on commissioning key projects executed by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, underscores the spirit of collaboration between both tiers of government and reflects a shared commitment to the region’s progress.
Governor Soludo’s administration, in less than three years, has delivered remarkable projects. From road infrastructure and urban renewal to human capital development. President Tinubu’s commissioning of these projects not only affirms federal endorsement of Soludo’s vision but also sends a clear message to investors and development partners that Anambra is open for business.
The President’s physical presence on Anambra soil also provides Governor Soludo a rare opportunity to bring to his attention some of the state’s pressing needs. As an Anambra proverb wisely puts it: “He who gets the rare chance to climb the iroko tree must gather all the firewood he can, for such opportunities are not everyday affairs.”
While the state’s joint security task force and the newly constituted Agunechemba are confronting security challenges, federal support remains vital. Given Anambra’s strategic location as the gateway to Nigeria’s eastern heartland, increased federal investment in surveillance and intelligence gathering would greatly enhance precision in security operations.
There is need to bring the dangerous threat of Erosion to the attention of President Tinubu. Anambra State, despite being one of the smallest in land mass, bears the tragic burden of being the erosion capital of Nigeria, a crisis far beyond the financial capacity of the state government to manage alone.
President Tinubu’s visit is a timely opportunity to advocate the designation of Anambra as a Special Economic Zone. With projects like the pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in Ogboji and the ongoing development of industrial parks, which would provide critical tax incentives, stimulate manufacturing and attract foreign direct investment.
The Federal Government should also collaborate with the state to establish a tech-focused federal institution in Anambra to harness the potential of its vibrant youth population. Governor Soludo’s Solution Innovation District is already laying the groundwork for an “Anambra Silicon Valley,” having trained tens of thousands of youths in digital skills. The One Youth, Two Skills program has also empowered many with vocational and entrepreneurial skills. A federal institution would complement these efforts and further position the state as a hub for innovation and the digital economy.
Another crucial area deserving the President’s urgent attention is the full activation of the Onitsha River Port. Despite intermittent discussions and partial revitalization, the port remains grossly underutilized. With enhanced dredging of the River Niger, establishment of regular cargo barge operations, and a strengthened customs presence, Onitsha Port can evolve into a logistics powerhouse. This would ease the burden on land transport, reduce logistics costs, and improve business competitiveness in Onitsha, Nnewi, and beyond.
Similarly, the Federal Government should support the expansion of cargo handling and customs clearance facilities at the Chinua Achebe International Airport. To promote its role as an export hub for both agricultural produce and manufactured goods.
Governor Soludo’s energetic revival of palm cultivation, in the tradition of Dr. Michael Okpara, is already bearing fruit across Anambra communities. The creation of a Nigerian Palm Produce Board would incentivize farmers, structure the palm oil value chain, boost exports and generate employment.
President Tinubu’s visit to Anambra State is more than ceremonial. It is a powerful endorsement of good governance at the sub national level. It presents a timely opportunity to strengthen the bond between Abuja and Awka and to prioritize infrastructure, industry, and innovation as pillars for Southeast development.
SIR PAUL NWOSU
