By Izuchukwu Adichie
Soludo’s reputation as a transformative leader committed to transformative projects is undeniable; even his harshest critics cannot deny this truth. However, while his achievements in three years may paint an impressive picture, it is important to look deeper into both his leadership style and the broader impact of his administration in Anambra. There exists a profound and often overlooked narrative about the more compassionate aspects of his governance.
Time and again, wise voices remind us that the kindness of a society is measured by how it cares for its most vulnerable members—those who are elderly, marginalized, and downtrodden. It is therefore heartening to note that upon taking office in 2022, Soludo initiated efforts to clear four years’ worth of pension backlogs and address the debts incurred by previous administrations. Soludo also resolved the 14-year lingering labor issues between the Anambra state government and the defunct; Anambra State Water Corporation, and Anambra State Environmental Protection Agency dated back to 2009 because of issues of the 2005 minimum wage increment.
To alleviate the financial challenges caused by subsidy removals, Soludo compassionately implemented a 10% salary increase for all pensioners in Anambra and announced a monthly, non-taxable cash award of N12,000 for each pensioner from September to December 2023. He extended his compassionate initiative into 2024, by approving a monthly cash award of N10,000, ensuring that our pensioners feel valued and supported.
His commitment to public health is equally impressive. Soludo announced free antenatal and delivery services, including Cesarean sections, and employed 1,000 health personnel. This initiative has already resulted in over 70,000 successful deliveries, reflecting his deep desire to enhance the quality of life for families in Anambra. He has also revitalized public schools to restore them to their former glory, implementing a completely free education policy and hiring 8,115 qualified teachers, leading to a significant increase in enrollment and academic performance.
Soludo exhibits a relentless passion for uplifting families’ welfare and living standards, as highlighted by innovative initiatives like the palm and coconut revolution, along with the “Farm-to-Feed” programs. He has already distributed about 2.1 million palm and coconut seedlings in the first and second phases, with aspirations to reach 10 million over the next six years. This initiative stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against poverty.
It has been said that even when he is on the move, Soludo shows genuine concern for those in distress. When encountering an accident scene, he doesn’t hesitate to break security protocol to assess the situation personally, ensuring that victims receive immediate medical attention. It is moments like these that reveal his deep empathy for those in need. He even made a point to visit the underserved area of Olumbanasa, where new facilities, including a solar-powered primary health center, pipe-borne water, and a public school, are now being built—areas that had long been neglected.
Soludo’s inclusive policies ensure that no marginalized community is left behind. His transformative efforts in Okpoko—historically known as a slum—along with transformations in Awka North and Onitsha, exemplify his commitment to creating a livable and prosperous homeland for all residents. He has brought quality roads and healthcare to communities that have awaited such progress for generations -such as five brand new general hospitals in Aguleri Otu, Oromaetiti, Anaku, Fegge, and Okpoko all in Anambra North.
As we observe Soludo’s approach, it becomes evident that other states in Nigeria can learn valuable lessons from Anambra State about inclusiveness. History has shown that a society where everyone is valued and cared for tends to thrive economically and socially. To disregard any segment of the state is not only detrimental but can lead to significant social unrest
We share a moral responsibility to foster a more equitable, compassionate, and humane society. Soludo’s vision for mainstreaming the elderly, marginalized, and underserved constitutes a bold, transformative challenge for all leaders across both the public and private sectors. Together, we can cultivate a society where everyone happily lives, work, learn, invest, enjoy and relax.
