Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, recently inaugurated the road leading to the Chinua Achebe International Airport in Umueri, naming it “Willie Obiano Boulevard” to honor his predecessor, Chief Willie Obiano.
Governor Soludo described the occasion as symbolic, stressing that it sends a powerful message of unity, continuity, and respect for individuals who contributed to the development of Anambra. He stated, “Today, we celebrate one of our own—Chief Willie Obiano. He did his best. The airport, the ICC, and many other legacies. We must appreciate him and send a message, not only to him but to all past governors of Anambra State. They must be appreciated and immortalized.”
Soludo emphasized that he does not seek personal praise and clarified that his goal is to fulfill the mandate he sought—building on existing achievements and creating new milestones under a unified agenda. “To me, the state is one constituency. Therefore, everyone and every area must be carried along. We are building Anambra and its children for the future. Let history remember that we honoured our heroes, united our people, and laid a foundation that could not be shaken.”
The governor highlighted his administration’s inclusive development strategy, recalling efforts to reach underserved areas, especially in the North Senatorial Zone. He mentioned his visits to Okpoko, where he launched various beneficial projects, and Olumbanasa, which had never before received a governor’s visit. He also discussed ongoing road projects aimed at connecting remote regions like Eziagulu-Otu, Mkpumnando, and Enugu-Otu.
“I cried publicly when I went to Enugu-Otu for the first time. Past governments may have ignored it due to the difficult terrain, but that must change. We are working to ensure that no part of Anambra is left behind,” Soludo remarked.
The governor praised Obiano’s contributions, particularly his role in initiating the airport project and constructing the International Convention Center (ICC) in Awka. Soludo compared the road naming to “Bill Clinton Drive,” which leads to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, calling it an appropriate tribute to “a man who dared to dream and deliver.”
Traditional rulers, lawmakers, and community leaders from Oyi and Anambra East praised Soludo for his inclusive leadership and for honoring Obiano. Igwe Ben Emeka, the traditional ruler of Umueri, expressed gratitude to the governor for completing the airport road and other significant projects. He also requested further road expansions to connect Anambra East, Ayamelum, and Anambra West to the airport.
Igwe P.N. Anugwu, Chairman of the Anambra North Traditional Rulers’ Council, echoed these sentiments and called for the extension of the Anambra West road beyond Nzam to reach the remote Olumbanasa communities.
Similarly, Hon. Obiora Nweke (Anambra East) and Hon. Innocent Ojike (Oyi Constituency) commended Soludo for directing key developmental initiatives to Anambra North. They noted that his administration exemplifies balanced and inclusive governance, benefiting all parts of the state.
