2nd Term Inauguration: Soludo Rallies Ndigbo for Unity, Political Relevance

By Praise Chinecherem

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state has called on Ndigbo to unite, rebuild their homeland and strategically reposition themselves for greater relevance in Nigeria’s political and economic space.

Soludo made the assertion after he was sworn in as the Governor of Anambra State for second term

Soludo was sworn in at 11.55a.m., after his deputy, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim was sworn in earlier by the Chief Judge of Anambra, Justice Onochie Anyachebelu.

In his inaugural address on Tuesday, Soludo emphasised that the future of the South-East depended largely on collective action, unity of purpose and a shift from mere agitation to practical development-oriented strategies.

The governor said the pursuit of political offices without deliberate frameworks for sustainable prosperity would not necessarily translate into improved welfare for the ordinary Igbo person.

“It would be nice emotionally to see an Igbo man in top national positions, but whether it would fundamentally impact the average Igbo man is debatable,” he said.

Soludo stressed the urgent need for healing across Igboland, urging Ndigbo to embrace a new narrative anchored on peace, justice and inclusiveness.

He warned against violent agitation, describing it as self-destructive, and called for democratic engagement in the quest for equity and fairness.

“Never again will we turn the gun on ourselves in the name of agitation,” he said, while advocating justice for victims of past conflicts and a collective healing process.

The governor further urged Ndigbo to play active roles in national politics through strategic alliances and effective mobilisation of their voting strength.

“In a democracy, you get what you bargain for with your votes. Ndigbo must never waste their votes again,” he said.

Soludo called for a coordinated movement to rebuild the South-East into a hub of opportunity and prosperity, stressing the need for deliberate policies to address infrastructure gaps and economic challenges.

He urged the people to draw inspiration from past regional leaders such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Michael Okpara and Akanu Ibiam, whose leadership laid the foundation for regional development.

The governor advocated a comprehensive reconstruction agenda for the South-East, comparable to the Marshall Plan, to fast-track infrastructure development and economic growth.

He also called on Ndigbo in the diaspora to actively contribute to the development of their homeland, noting that collective effort was key to achieving lasting transformation.

“This is your state. Each of us has something to contribute, however little, to make Anambra and the South-East great,” he said.

Soludo reiterated that government alone could not drive the desired transformation, urging citizens to pay taxes, obey laws and support community-driven development initiatives.

He assured that his administration would remain committed to building a livable and prosperous state, anchored on unity, resilience and shared responsibility among Ndigbo.

The governor expressed optimism that with renewed unity and strategic engagement, the South-East would regain its position as a leading axis of economic growth and innovation in Nigeria.

Also speaking, Vice-President Kashim Shettima said Gov. Soludo had demonstrated with elegance and courage what it means for a democrat to lead.

He said there was no doubt that the people of Anambra had now witnessed what many had long heard about, the ‘Soludo Solution’.

According to him, Soludo assumed office at a critical period in Nigeria’s history when many traded integrity for relevance.

“Yet, he has remained honourable and a man of ideas, whose convictions are rooted in the public good.

“His overwhelming victory in the Nov.8, 2025 election is a reflection of the people’s trust and confidence in his leadership.

“In the business of serving the people, there is no need for opposition; we must place the welfare of the people above partisan politics. Soludo’s second term is about consolidation.

“The Federal Government remains committed to partnering with Anambra to move the country forward. It is not just about continuity, but responsibility,” Shettima said.

He urged the people of the state to support the governor in realising his vision of making the state a major destination hub in Nigeria.