Tel: 08034747898
Email: Totalpolitics@ymail.com.
Only a sure-footed leader will want to engage citizens from all walks of life in public debate on policy issues. Otherwise, many leaders would prefer a well-scripted and choreographed public show drowned in noise and fanfare. It is in this context that one can only but applaud Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who is definitely bringing the heat to Anambra State by taking citizen engagement to a whole new level, connecting with Anambra residents globally, and empowering them to contribute to the state’s growth. This is with the full realization that when citizens are involved in the planning, they become willing partners in progress and execution.
At a recent town hall meeting held in the United Kingdom, Governor Soludo demonstrated exceptional leadership, showcasing his administration’s commitment to citizen engagement and inclusive governance. The event, which brought together Anambra residents globally was a testament to Soludo’s innovative approach to governance – mobile governance.
This strategic approach is particularly significant given Anambra’s unique demographic, with a substantial portion of its population residing abroad. The State has a significant diaspora population in the UK and EU, with many residents originally from the state living and working in that hemisphere. They’re a crucial part of Anambra’s demographic, and their influence is felt in local politics and development.
These diaspora communities often maintain strong ties to their homeland, contributing financially, culturally, and politically. They can influence local politics through remittances, investments, and advocacy, shaping development initiatives back in Anambra. Soludo’s engagement with them is likely aimed at tapping into these resources and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for Anambra’s progress.
By leveraging technology and proactive outreach, Soludo has bridged geographical gaps, empowering citizens to participate in the state’s growth and development. This town hall meeting was just one in a series of diaspora engagements that have defined Soludo’s leadership, underscoring his dedication to keeping the global Anambra community connected and invested in their homeland’s progress. Soludo himself is self-aware that enormous resources are required to build the Anambra of his dream- the African Dubail- Taiwan. While these resources may not easily be locally available, they can nevertheless be harnessed from abroad and be invested locally. The full potential of these resources remains on the surface and majorly unscratched. The heavy lifting will be how to unlock these potentials.
The recent UK meeting itself was a masterclass in effective communication blended with skilful leadership. Soludo adeptly navigated a range of questions, providing enriching and clear insights into his achievements and outlining a compelling vision for the next 46 months – his “Next Big Steps” agenda. These ambitious ‘Next Big Steps’ include transforming Anambra into a green, liveable, and prosperous homeland. He plans to achieve this through several initiatives, including the development of three smart cities: Akwa 2.0, Next Onitsha 2.0, and the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City (AMIC). These cities and the aerotropolis are designed to boost economic activity, enhance sustainability, and redefine urban living.
He also aims to overhaul transportation infrastructure with the Anambra Transport Masterplan, featuring a state-wide rail network, upgraded highways, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, and digital ticketing. This is expected to increase productivity, reduce environmental impact, and ease movement.
Additionally, Soludo plans to improve healthcare with a comprehensive oncology centre to combat cancer and expand telemedicine services for wider digital healthcare access. Education will also receive a boost with a comprehensive bursary scheme for Anambra students, ensuring accessibility for all.
His vision also includes developing tourism hubs like Ogbunike Caves, Owerre-Ezukala Waterfalls, and Agulu Lake, alongside the upcoming Marriott Hotel in Awka, to boost hospitality and business tourism
However, one notable exchange stood out: an overzealous IPOB member posed a question that seemed somewhat disconnected from the meeting’s purpose, echoing divisive rhetoric. Soludo handled the situation with tact, gently pointing out the misstep and refocusing the discussion on collective progress and homeland prosperity. In a calm voice he reminded all that the gathering was about ‘Anambra – what we are doing and what we can do better’.
This incident highlighted Soludo’s leadership style: clarity of purpose, inclusivity, and a forward-looking approach. According to Mazi Ejimofor Opara, ‘his emphasis on moving beyond lamentation to constructive engagement resonated with participants, who left the meeting with renewed hope and a sense of purpose’, knowing that in the practical sense, ‘life is a bargain’. Most often, you do not get what you deserve but what you bargained for. Many attendees felt more enriched and better enlightened on such issues as security. Power, mining, investors pathway, taxation etc. They expressed their intent to contribute positively to Anambra’s advancement, a testament to Soludo’s ability to inspire and mobilize.
The significance of Soludo’s engagement with the diaspora community cannot be overstated. As an Igbo leader, recognizing the value of this global network is crucial. Neglecting this resource could have far-reaching consequences, from stunted economic growth to diminished cultural ties. Soludo’s proactive approach, however, is cultivating a sense of belonging and shared responsibility among Anambra’s global citizens.
In crafting a liveable and prosperous homeland, Soludo’s administration is leaving no one behind. His mobile governance model offers a blueprint for inclusive development, where every citizen, regardless of location, has a stake in their state’s future. As Anambra moves forward, the focus on citizen engagement, accountability, and collective progress will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of Soludo’s agenda, driving growth and shaping a brighter future for all.
I want to say kudos to the organizers of the event for a job well done. I wish to see more of these sorts of engagement at both local, regional and subregional level. Anambra is on the rise. God bless Anambra and all her beautiful and enterprising people. May we embrace law and order, peace in our time and know happiness.
Soludo’s EU/UK Diaspora Engagement: A Showcase of Effective Governance Model. By Clem Aguiyi
Leave a Reply