By Christian ABURIME
In the art of modern governance, a well-articulated vision serves as the compass guiding a society toward progress.
Like a beacon in the political landscape, a clear vision fosters unity, aligning diverse perspectives under a common purpose. It transcends the mundane and charts a course towards meaningful development, acting as the catalyst for innovation and collective growth.
A robust vision not only defines goals but also inspires citizenry, cultivating a sense of purpose and participation. It is the blueprint for good governance, grounding decisions in a shared narrative and ensuring that the path to progress is both inclusive and sustainable.
In the evolving landscape of Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s visionary pursuit has consistently aimed at constructing a haven of prosperity and transformation – a smart megacity that beckons as an ideal dwelling, a centre of learning, a hub for investments, a realm of labour, a sanctuary of leisure, and a space to relish life’s offerings.
Two years into his term, the resolute commitment to this vision has not wavered; it has, in fact, strengthened. At the heart of Governor Soludo’s governance lies a mission to position Anambra State as Africa’s newfound nucleus of sustainable prosperity.
This lofty objective rests on five formidable Solution Policy Pillars: Security, Law and Order; Infrastructure and Economic Transformation; Human Capital and Social Agenda; Governance and Value System; and the Environment. These pillars serve as the bedrock upon which the future of Anambra is to be sculpted.
Recently, at a mid-term executive retreat titled “Changing Gears: 2024 Priorities and Beyond,” Governor Soludo conducted a comprehensive evaluation of his administration’s performance vis-à-vis the envisioned smart megacity and the Solution Policy Pillars. The assessment painted a commendable picture, adorned with numerous milestones and accomplishments.
Looking forward, the Soludo administration unveils a strategic roadmap for the upcoming year. Among the prominent priorities is the development of three novel cities: Awka 2.0, Onitsha 2.0, and a groundbreaking Industrial City complete with an Export Emporium. The emphasis extends to completing and implementing the railway master plan, enhancing the Ease of Doing Business, finalizing the Awka Fun City, erecting a branded international hotel in Awka, and breathing new life into major cities through urban regeneration and modernization initiatives.
The agenda extends ambitiously to encompass the completion of ongoing and new road projects, the modernization of mass transport systems, the creation of new electricity markets, and a meticulous focus on enhancing security with cutting-edge technology applications.
In agriculture, a transformative initiative aims to provide 100,000 households or more with 10 or more seedlings of coconut, palm, ukwa, pawpaw, soursop, among others.
The sports economy is set to be mainstreamed, culminating in the debut of the State football team in 2024. Structural reforms will deepen in the realm of public-private-community partnerships, and the implementation of the Micro-Enterprise Support Scheme (MESS) is on the horizon.
Digital skills and innovation programs are slated for democratization, and the One Youth Two Skills 2.0 initiative will come to fruition. Specialized teachers and additional health workers are on the recruitment radar, emphasizing the commitment to holistic development.
Critical to the government’s agenda is the upgrading of infrastructure in schools and hospitals, spanning both primary and secondary levels. The Solution Innovation District Permanent Site will commence and conclude, while the introduction of Smart schools initiatives in primary and secondary schools will underscore the commitment to technological advancement in education.
In order to finance and achieve these ambitious goals, the state government has laid out a strategic financial plan, targeting over N4 billion in monthly IGR in 2024. This involves prudent and transparent fiscal management, private capital mobilization, and external financing.
Furthermore, community ownership is emphasized, with citizens, foundations, individuals, and the Diaspora playing pivotal roles. Strategic partnerships with International Development Partners and the Federal Government are also integral to this comprehensive approach.
Governor Soludo encapsulates this transformative vision with a sense of urgency, recognizing the ticking clock with 26 months remaining in the first term.
The development focus is encapsulated by the mantra, “One State, One People, One Agenda.” As the gears shift in 2024, the promised Transformation Agenda takes center stage.
Anambra State, under Soludo’s leadership, is poised not just for progress but for a transcendence that will leave an indelible mark on its landscape.
The call echoes loud and clear – it is time to unite as One Solution Team and sculpt a future where Anambra stands far better than it was met