By Romanus Okoye
Residents of Anambra West Local Government Area on Wednesday, September 17, expressed immense gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for addressing decades of marginalisation and infrastructural neglect, whilst declaring their unwavering support for his administration and demanding additional development projects.
The demonstration of appreciation came during the governor’s visit to the area for the commissioning of the newly completed Mmiata Anam–Nzam; Nzam- Secretariat Roads, administrative block for Nzam Secretariat and inspection of other ongoing construction projects in the area.
Speaking collectively on behalf of residents, stakeholders, youths, and elders, the Mayor of Anambra West, Hon. Fidelis Nnazor; Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Chief Tony Collins Nwabunwanne; Surveyor Alex Okeke; and Chief Dan Nnakwuzie recounted how the LGA’s headquarters, Nzam, had remained inaccessible by road since its creation, particularly during rainy seasons.
The speakers enumerated several achievements of the Soludo administration in Anambra West, including the construction of the Mmiata Anam–Nzam Secretariat Road, the ongoing Nzam Bridge project, infrastructural improvements in various communities, and enhanced connectivity that has begun transforming the economic landscape of the riverine area.
“Governor Soludo has broken the jinx that successive governments could not break,” Chief Nwabunwanne declared, emphasising that the governor had accomplished what past administrations had failed to deliver for Anambra West.
The community leaders pledged to deliver “10/10 returns” for the governor in the forthcoming gubernatorial election, describing the infrastructure projects as tangible evidence of his commitment to inclusive development.
However, the residents presented additional demands to the governor, specifically requesting a motorable road connecting Mmiata, Umuenwelum, Oroma-Etiti, Umudora, Umuikwu, and Onono; electricity supply to remaining parts of the LGA; establishment of a special Smart School; and installation of solar lights along the Nneyi Umueri/INEC route connecting to Omambala Bridge.
Commissioner Nwabunwanne informed the governor that miscreants exploit the poor lighting around the Nneyi road to rob motorists, particularly during festive seasons such as Christmas.
Responding to the community’s expressions of gratitude and additional requests, Governor Soludo reflected on his initial campaign visit to the area and his subsequent trip to Olumbanasa after assuming office. He described the completion of the motorable road to Nzam as “a promise kept,” noting it was the only electoral pledge he had made with consequences, having told residents they could stone him if he failed to deliver.
Addressing the additional demands, the governor assured residents that he would examine their requests by first evaluating the costs and availability of funds. He emphasised that unlike regular politicians, he does not make promises without conducting proper due diligence, stating that “his words are his bond.” However, he assured the community that he would “surely do something more” for the area.
The governor’s administration has consistently prioritised rural infrastructure development in hard-to-reach areas such as Anambra West, which are frequently cut off during rainy seasons due to flooding and inadequate road networks.
The completed Mmiata Anam–Nzam; Nzam Secretariat Roads; are expected to facilitate transportation for civil servants, traders, and farmers, whilst the Nzam Bridge, upon completion, is anticipated to transform economic and social connectivity in the riverine council area.
Hon. Nnazor described yesterday’s event as “a landmark occasion in the history of Anambra West,” given the transformative impact of these projects on residents’ lives. He noted that the people turned out in large numbers to welcome the governor, demonstrating their appreciation for his administration’s focus on previously neglected riverine communities.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the Anambra West Local Government Secretariat, attracted party stakeholders, government appointees, and representatives from across the LGA, underscoring its significance as a unifying moment for the area’s residents.
Several government functionaries were present at the event, including the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu; APGA state chairma, Chief (Barr.) Ifeatu Obi-Okoye; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi; Chief of Protocol and Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief Chinedu Nwoye; Commissioner for Electricity and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka; Chief Chinedu Obidigwe, former House of Representatives member for Anambra East/West Federal Constituency, amongst others.
Interestingly, several dignatories decamped from their parties to join APGA. Some of them are former, majority leader, Anambra State House of Assembly, Dr. Victor Okoye; Engr. Emma Akpeh and Chief John Ozoemena, a PDP stalwart. Chief Ozoemena, who spoke on behalf of the new members, said Governor Soludo’s performance is the sole reason for their decision. They declared to deliver all wards using their political might in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.
The governor’s visit formed part of his broader programme of commissioning completed projects across Anambra State whilst inspecting ongoing developments to ensure timely completion and adherence to quality standards.
The Nzam Bridge project is expected to serve as a game-changer that will enhance commerce, trade, and provide faster access to neighbouring areas for the riverine communities that have historically faced significant transportation challenges.
