Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has emphasized the importance of providing quality education to children across all socio-economic backgrounds as the foundation of his “Dubai-Taiwan” development strategy for the state.
Speaking during a visit to Ndi Akpo at Akpo Junction, Aguata LGA, on October 19, Soludo highlighted his long-standing commitment to education, stating, “The idea of free education for all has been with me long before I became governor.”
He recounted how 14 years ago, he personally took on the responsibility of paying school fees and providing uniforms for students in his community’s public primary school. “Back then, we had 190 pupils; today, the school has over 800 students. Investing in the education of our children is the only way to guarantee sustainable growth and development for our state,” he said.
Governor Soludo addressed misconceptions about his administration’s vision, noting that the Dubai-Taiwan strategy isn’t just about rapid infrastructure development. “Some critics expected skyscrapers and mansions to spring up within three years. While infrastructure is important, we are focusing on building the human capital that will sustain future growth,” he remarked.
The governor proudly pointed to his administration’s employment of 8,150 teachers, calling it an unprecedented achievement in Nigeria. “Our goal is to end the era of schools without teachers. We are employing quality educators and introducing advanced teaching methods to shape the leaders of tomorrow,” Soludo added.
Citing Taiwan as an example, the governor noted that despite lacking natural resources, Taiwan achieved technological advancement through education. He urged the people of Akpo to continue investing in education and praised their efforts to enhance local infrastructure, health, and education services.
During the event, Soludo assured residents that the long-awaited Amesi-Akpo-Ogboji Road, a 7.1-kilometre stretch, would be awarded for construction next month. “By this time next year, we will see significant progress on the road,” he promised, prompting jubilation from the crowd.
The governor also commissioned several community-driven projects, including a new college road and a comprehensive health centre, both of which were built through local efforts. He commended Ndi Akpo for their commitment to development and promised to return to commission additional projects at the Community Secondary School Akpo once they are completed.
Earlier, Nze Henry C. Dim, President General of the Akpo Development Association (ADA), praised the governor’s leadership and urged him to run for re-election in 2025, promising the full support of Ndi Akpo.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Aguata Federal Constituency Representative Engr. Dominic Okafor, Anambra State Secretary Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, and several members of the state legislature.
