By Christian ABURIME
Anambra state witnessed a significant development today, December 31, 2023 , as Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, commissioned the Okpuno Uruagu Primary Health Centre Nnewi and the Ultra modern Ancient Obi Okpuno Uruagu Palace Nnewi.
The projects, completed through private-public community partnership, showcases the growing collaboration between the state government and its citizens.
The Okpuno Uruagwu Primary Health Centre, renovated by Chief Oliver Nwagbala and donated to Anambra State Government, will enhance access to quality healthcare for the community.
Governor Soludo commended Chief Nwagbala and other contributors, highlighting the importance of Public Private Community Partnership (PPCP) in achieving development goals in the state.
“Without the active collaboration of communities and individuals, the task of putting Anambra on the global map will be much difficult,” he stated.
“I celebrate this Partnership and commend Chief Oliver Nwagbala including all those who have contributed towards the building of this hospital.”
The ceremony also saw the commissioning of the Ultra modern Ancient Obi Okpuno Uruagu Palace, built by Chief Cletus Ibeto.
Governor Soludo praised the cultural significance of the palace and its role in preserving the heritage of the Okpuno Uruagu community.
Beyond these individual projects, Governor Soludo outlined his ambitious vision for Anambra’s future, reiterating his commitment to delivering transformative infrastructure projects, including three new cities: Awka 2.0, Onitsha 2.0, and an Industrial City.
The Governor also announced a $200 million deal with AFREXIM Bank to build an Export Emporium in the state.
“We are not just talking, we are building,” Governor Soludo declared.
“I am a statesman and my mission is to rebuild Anambra. Everyday of my life is devoted to this cause.”
To further improve healthcare access, the Governor revealed plans to build ten Primary Health Centres in Nnewi, each equipped with solar power, advanced facilities, and telemedicine capabilities.
He also acknowledged the community’s requests for road construction projects, stating that work is already underway on Okpuno Eze-Nnewi Hotel Road and Isaho-Teaching Hospital Road.
Governor Soludo’s passion for Nnewi, the largest city in Anambra South Senatorial Zone, was evident in his call for a collaborative master plan.
He urged a group of 20-25 Nnewi stakeholders, led by Chief Cletus Ibeto, to join forces with the government in transforming the city into the “Japan of Africa.”
“My purpose is not to do politics the way other governors do,” he emphasized.
“I came with a disruptive change that shall be permanent.”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike revealed that over 1,400 women have benefitted from Governor Soludo’s free antenatal and delivery services across all government hospitals and primary health centers in the state, with no recorded deaths.
Commissioner for Industry Christian Udechukwu, Chief of Protocol Chinedu Nwoye, Member Representing Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency Hon. Uchenna Eleodimmuo, Transition Committee Chairman for Nnewi North, Engr. Chris Obiorah, Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, the Obi of Okpuno Uruagu, Obi Afam Iloka among others attended the event.
