Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo has called on residents of Awka to fully embrace the city’s growing identity as a modern cosmopolitan capital, stressing that his administration is committed to transforming the state capital into a major destination in Nigeria.
The governor made the remarks during a meeting with members of the Ozo Awka Society led by Ozo Sir Chukwujekwu Eze, where discussions focused on the future development of Awka, community unity and traditional leadership issues.
Soludo stated that Awka occupies a strategic place in his administration’s development agenda, adding that the government is investing heavily in infrastructure and urban renewal projects aimed at repositioning the city.
Soludo Highlights Development Projects in Awka
The governor noted that his administration had ended decades of delay by constructing a modern Government House and Lodge in Awka.
According to him, the project reflects his commitment to making the city function as a true state capital.
He also referenced ongoing investments such as the Solution Fun City project, explaining that the goal is to make Awka more attractive for tourism, business and recreation.
Soludo said he had fulfilled his campaign promise of residing in Awka and ensuring visible development within the capital city.
Governor Speaks on Traditional Leadership Crisis
The governor also addressed the lingering traditional leadership dispute in Awka, describing the situation as one that required urgent intervention.
Speaking on the controversy surrounding Chief Austine Ndigwe and Obi Gibson Nwosu, Soludo said findings from a state Commission of Enquiry indicated that Nwosu was never officially dethroned and that Ndigwe was not lawfully installed as monarch.
He warned that the state’s traditional rulers law does not recognise multiple traditional rulers within the same community.
Soludo further explained that the disagreement was linked to burial rites and zoning arrangements over who should produce the next traditional ruler.
According to him, Awka’s zoning structure clearly indicates that Nkwelle village is next in line to produce the monarch.
Call for Unity Ahead of Cultural Festival
With preparations ongoing for the Traditional Imo Awka Festival, the governor urged stakeholders to work together in maintaining peace and unity within the community.
He disclosed that the proposed festival date of May 23, 2026, clashes with another major state event that would require security deployment, making rescheduling necessary.
Soludo appealed to community leaders, professionals and traditional titleholders to help restore Awka’s reputation and strengthen unity among residents.
Push for a Grand Traditional Palace
The governor also encouraged Awka indigenes to build a befitting central palace for the Eze Uzu Awka, similar to traditional palaces found in historic cities like Onitsha and Ile-Ife.
He pledged government support for the project and expressed optimism that it could be completed within one year if properly coordinated.
Soludo Calls for Peace and Progress
The governor stressed that his administration’s main objective is to promote peace, order and sustainable development in Anambra State.
He added that Awka possesses enormous potential but has not fully lived up to its status as a state capital.
According to him, effective leadership sometimes requires making difficult decisions in the interest of long-term progress.