Soludo unveils Anambra’s transformation: ethical leadership, security, and a new vision
By Sunny A. David/ Awka
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, has highlighted his administration’s commitment to ethical leadership and fiscal responsibility during a keynote address at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Governor Soludo revealed a shocking monthly cleaning expense of ₦137 million under the previous administration, which his team streamlined to just ₦11 million.
This dramatic reduction, he emphasized, exemplifies his commitment to prudent financial management, freeing up ₦126 million monthly and over ₦1.5 billion annually for other crucial projects.
Beyond cost-cutting, Soludo detailed significant strides in various sectors. He highlighted the state’s free maternal healthcare initiative, benefiting over 107,000 women and performing over 400 caesarean sections, with zero mortality.
He stressed the importance of merit-based recruitment, critiquing patronage systems and emphasizing the detrimental effects of unqualified staff, particularly in education and healthcare. He cited his administration’s zero-tolerance for favoritism in all appointments.
Prof. Soludo outlined a five-pillar development plan focusing on security, economic transformation, human capital, governance, and the environment.
A key initiative is the transformation of the former Government House into a “Silicon Valley” hub for innovation, spanning over 30 hectares.
He also highlighted the completion of a new, state-of-the-art Government House complex, a move he argues remedies decades of inadequate facilities.
Further, Governor Soludo announced the opening of Solution Fun City, a leisure park, showcasing his vision for Anambra as a destination point.
Addressing security concerns, Prof. Soludo attributed the improvement to a multi-pronged strategy tackling criminal elements at their source, including combating religious and traditional practices that encourage crime and urged all stakeholders to reorient society.
Soludo’s address, concluding with the presentation of an award for ethical leadership, underscored his commitment to building a secure, prosperous, and transparent Anambra State. He urged all sectors to embrace ethical leadership, not just as a concept, but as a way of life.
