Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has officially named the road leading to the Chinua Achebe International Airport in Umueri as the “Willie Obiano Boulevard,” honoring his predecessor, Chief Willie Obiano. The event was described by Governor Soludo as highly significant, symbolizing more than just recognition. He emphasized that the naming of the road conveys a strong message of unity, continuity, and respect for those who have contributed to Anambra’s progress. “Today, we celebrate one of our own—Chief Willie Obiano. He did his best with the airport, the ICC, and many other legacies. We must appreciate him and send a message—not only to him but to all past governors of Anambra State. They must be appreciated and immortalized,” Soludo remarked.
The Governor stressed that his actions were not about seeking personal praise. Instead, he views his leadership as an opportunity to build upon existing structures while introducing new developments in line with a unified agenda. “To me, the state is one constituency. Everyone and every area must be carried along. We are building Anambra and its children for the future. Let history remember that we honored our heroes, united our people, and laid a foundation that could not be shaken.”
Governor Soludo also highlighted his administration’s inclusive approach to development, particularly focusing on areas that had been previously neglected. He mentioned his visits to Okpoko, where he commissioned various life-enhancing projects, and to Olumbanasa, a community that had never received a visit from a governor. Furthermore, Soludo outlined ongoing road projects aimed at connecting remote areas such as Eziagulu-Otu, Mkpumnando, and Enugu-Otu. Reflecting on his visit to Enugu-Otu, he said, “I cried publicly when I went there for the first time. Past governments may have ignored it due to the difficult terrain, but that must change. We are working to ensure that no part of Anambra is left behind.”
Soludo praised Obiano’s legacy, particularly his contributions to the airport project and the construction of the International Convention Center (ICC) in Awka. He compared the naming of the road to the “Bill Clinton Drive” leading to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, describing it as a fitting tribute to “a man who dared to dream and deliver.”
Traditional rulers, lawmakers, and community stakeholders from Oyi and Anambra East all expressed their appreciation for Governor Soludo’s leadership, especially for his inclusive approach and for honoring Obiano’s legacy. Igwe Ben Emeka, the traditional ruler of Umueri, thanked the governor for completing the airport road and other impactful projects. He further appealed for the expansion of roads linking Anambra East, Ayamelum, and Anambra West to the airport.
Similarly, Igwe P.N. Anugwu, Chairman of the Anambra North Traditional Rulers’ Council, called for the extension of the Anambra West road beyond Nzam to connect the remote Olumbanasa communities.
Hon. Obiora Nweke (Anambra East) and Hon. Innocent Ojike (Oyi Constituency) also commended Soludo for his focus on critical developmental projects in Anambra North, highlighting that his administration embodies balanced and inclusive governance.