Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, on Sunday presided over a solemn interdenominational thanksgiving service to commemorate the completion of his first term in office, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transforming the state into a thriving destination for investment, tourism and peaceful living in the years ahead.
The service, themed “Leading with Wisdom and Integrity,” brought together clerics from various Christian denominations, political leaders, traditional rulers and citizens who gathered at the International Convention Centre, Awka to offer prayers and reflect on the journey of the state under Soludo’s leadership.
The gathering served as a spiritual prelude to the governor’s second-term inauguration, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Addressing the congregation, Soludo, accompanied by his wife, Nonye Soludo, expressed profound gratitude to the people of Anambra for their continued support and resilience throughout the challenges of the past four years. He acknowledged that the progress recorded during his first term was made possible through divine guidance and the cooperation of citizens.
According to the governor, the administration faced numerous economic and security challenges during its early years, but remained steadfast in its determination to reposition Anambra as one of Nigeria’s most stable and economically vibrant states.
He said the interdenominational gathering symbolised unity and collective responsibility, emphasising that sustainable development can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and shared values.
Speaking on the central message of the event titled “Ecumenism,” Soludo stressed that his government would continue to build a society where opportunities are determined by merit, innovation and service rather than religious affiliation or ethnic background.
The governor noted that Anambra’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths and urged residents to continue embracing unity as the state pursues greater economic and social development.
“Our administration will continue to focus on the values that unite us as a people,” Soludo said. “Anambra belongs to everyone who is committed to contributing positively to its growth. Religion, ethnicity or background will never determine access to opportunities under this government.”
Soludo also used the occasion to highlight some of the major strides recorded during his first term, particularly in infrastructure development, urban renewal, education reforms and efforts aimed at improving security across communities.
He reiterated that tackling lawlessness and restoring public confidence in security institutions would remain a key priority as his administration begins a second term.
According to him, Anambra cannot fully realise its economic potential unless peace and order are firmly established in every part of the state.
“We are determined to make Anambra a destination hub for investors, entrepreneurs and visitors,” he said. “But that vision requires a secure and disciplined society where lawlessness has no place.”
The governor further assured residents that ongoing reforms in governance, infrastructure and economic policy would be deepened in the coming years to accelerate the state’s transformation.
Clerics who attended the service offered prayers for wisdom, humility and integrity for the governor and other leaders of the state as they continue to guide Anambra through the next phase of development.
They also urged political leaders to remain accountable to the people and to govern with a strong sense of justice, compassion and fairness.
The religious leaders described the theme of the service as timely, noting that leadership rooted in wisdom and integrity remains essential for addressing the social and economic challenges confronting many communities.
Political observers say the interdenominational gathering reflects Soludo’s attempt to begin his second term on a note of unity and reflection, while also reinforcing his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance.
As Anambra prepares for the inauguration ceremony later this week, expectations are high among residents that the next four years will bring further progress in security, economic growth and infrastructure development across the state.
For many who attended the service in Awka, the event was not only a moment of thanksgiving but also a renewed call for collective effort in building a peaceful, prosperous and forward-looking Anambra.
