Theinvestigator news

Category: Government

Kogi Govt Announces Major Win Against Bandits As Joint Forces Strike

Emmanuel lkpeama

The Kogi State Government has announced a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry, with joint security forces launching successful precision strikes on bandits in the state.

In a statement released on Monday 12, January 2026,signed by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communications, noted that the strikes and ground battle led to the destruction of several bandits’ camps, the dismantling of their criminal networks, and the neutralising of many of the criminals.

“The Kogi State Government wishes to announce a major breakthrough in its sustained war against banditry and terrorism following a series of highly successful precision operations carried out by coordinated joint security forces including the Army, Navy, DSS, Airforce and the NSCDC with the support of the Nigeria Police Force through its Airwing Component.”

“The coordinated strikes and ground battle led to the destruction of several bandits’ camps, the dismantling of their criminal networks, and the neutralisation of many of the criminals, with several others sustaining varying degrees of injury.”

“The renewed onslaught, which was executed over the weekend, was strategically coordinated by the Kogi State Government with the support of the Office of the National Security Adviser and the heads of security agencies.”

“Initial feedback from affected communities has shown renewed confidence in the capacity and commitment of our security forces to decisively end banditry and kidnapping, not only in Kogi State but across the country.”he said.

Hon Fanwo went further to acknowledge his Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and commitment to the safety and security of Kogi state and Nigeria at large.

“The Kogi State Government expresses profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his uncompromising commitment to the safety and security of Kogi State and Nigeria at large.”

“We also appreciate the unbending commitment of the National Security Adviser, Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Air Staff, the Director General of the Department of State Services, the Inspector General of Police and the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps as well as the Director General of the Nigerian Intelligence Agency.”

“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has reaffirmed his resolve to sustain the momentum and continue to take the fight to the bandits until they are completely wiped off the face of Kogi State. He has assured that no resource will be spared in achieving this critical objective.”

“The Government urges residents to continue to volunteer timely and credible intelligence to support the ongoing security operations. Members of the public and all health institutions across the state are also advised to promptly report cases of gunshot wounds to security authorities, as this will help in tracking fleeing criminals who sustained bullet injuries during the decisive operation.”Fanwo submitted

Investigator news reports that with the recent development,the Government of Governor Ododo is fully committed to safeguarding lives, property, and restoring lasting peace to all parts of the state.

January 12, 2026
New Security Vehicles And Soludo’s Renewed Pledge To A Safer Anambra

By Christian ABURIME

It is often said that vigilance is the price of eternal liberty. This is a truism that remains ever more apt in today’s increasingly perilous world. As criminals never totally quit, governments as custodians of societal security can’t afford to let down guards.

This informs the renewed bold and strategic move to bolster security and public safety in Anambra State by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, as he has once again demonstrated his undaunted resolve to keep fighting crime and ensuring the well-being of Ndi Anambra.

This time, his efforts have manifested in the donation of 30 operational vehicles to the Nigeria Police Force, Anambra State Command. This magnanimous gesture is only a continuation of a series of initiatives aimed at creating a safer and more secure environment for the people of Anambra so that lives and livelihoods can be meaningful.

Last year, Governor Soludo’s administration made headlines with the donation of 170 operational vehicles to various security agencies in the state. This move was part of a broader strategy to enhance law enforcement capacity and deepen community safety.

However, the governor’s commitment did not stop there. Recognising that security is a continuous work in progress, he has now added 30 Hilux vehicles specifically for the Nigeria Police Force.

These vehicles are expected to enhance mobility and responsiveness, allowing officers to effectively combat crime and maintain order.

Yet, Governor Soludo’s efforts to combat crime and ensure public safety are not limited to the provision of vehicles. Just last year, his administration launched the Agunechemba offensive alongside Operation Udo Ga Achị under a new Homeland Security Law, a joint task force designed to tackle the wave of criminality that had once plagued many parts of Anambra.

The results of these initiatives have been remarkable. Just twelve months later, the difference is clear: Anambra has experienced a marked improvement in peace and order.

The governor’s relentless dedication to security has also been evident in his support for the security agencies. Speaking at the recent donation ceremony, Governor Soludo expressed his gratitude to the security agencies for their unceasing vigilance.

As he rightly noted, the security agencies must be commended for keeping awake to make sure Ndi Anambra can sleep.

This appreciation is well-deserved, as the efforts of these agencies considerably encouraged a mass return of Anambra indigenes to their communities during the Christmas season, confident in the safety of their homeland.

The donation of the 30 operational vehicles was received with gratitude by CP Ikioye Orutugu, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police. The commissioner acknowledged the critical role these vehicles would play in effective policing and rapid response to threats.

The vehicles are expected to improve patrolling, curb criminal activities, and reinforce the state’s positive security trajectory.

Governor Soludo’s strategic investments in law enforcement capacity are not just about providing resources; they are about sending a clear message to the people of Anambra that their safety is an overwhelming priority.

As Anambra continues to enjoy unprecedented peace, the governor’s loyalty to protecting lives, encouraging economic growth, and ensuring the overall well-being of the state’s residents is evident.

Indeed, this new year empowerment of the police force in the state equips not only our police officers with reliable equipment to serve, but will also boost the morale of Agunechemba operatives that they are not alone, while reassuring communities that their safety remains a top priority of the Anambra State government.

Looking ahead to this year and the coming years, there is no doubt that Ndi Anambra will keep working and relaxing without fear, thanks to the effective leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo and the eternal vigilance of our security agencies.

January 10, 2026
Governor Soludo Commissions 5KM Road, Lauds Public-Private Partnership.

Emmanuel lkpeama

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has commissioned a newly constructed 5-kilometer road in Ezinifite, Aguata Local Government Area, built by Chief Anthony Obele, a private individual and proud son of the community.

The project, executed through a pioneering public-private-community partnership (PPCP), represents a milestone in the state’s infrastructure advancement and a powerful example of collaborative progress.

Unlike the usual government-commissioned roads, this one carries special significance—it resides within the Governor’s area, making the occasion deeply personal.

The freshly tarred road, traversing key neighborhoods in Ezinifite, promises to ease transportation challenges, enhance local commerce, and boost the everyday lives of residents who rely on these vital connections.

At the commissioning event, Governor Soludo hailed Chief Obele’s commitment as exemplary, describing the project as a model for sustainable community development that transcends government capacity alone.

The Governor emphasized that partnerships like what happened here blending private initiative, public support, and community participation are essential to fast-tracking infrastructural growth across Anambra.

The Governor noted that the government alone cannot achieve development as people all over the world,develope and shine the light.

He acknowledged and celebrated illustrious sons and daughters of Anambra State who came back to answer the call.

His words underscored a call to action for all Anambra indigenes to invest in their roots, affirming that collective responsibility remains key to lasting progress.

“Once you do this kind of thing, call me I’ll be there to commission it,” he said, highlighting how personal investment in community infrastructure defines true leadership.

He stressed that even the smallest acts paving two meters of road can make a difference when done for the public good, not out of surplus or self-interest.

“This project also sends a clarion call to ndị Anambra everywhere those in the diaspora and at home to embrace opportunities to uplift their homeland.”

“The PPCP framework provides a blueprint for how private resourcefulness, government facilitation, and community cooperation can come together to shape Anambra’s future.”he noted

Chief Anthony Obele, the visionary behind the road, echoed this sentiment. He believes the time has come for leaders and citizens alike to measure their greatness not by titles alone, but by concrete contributions.

Chief Anthony praised the leadership and vision demonstrated for the state, describing it as commendable. He said the current direction offers a positive outlook for the sons and daughters of Anambra.

“We are proud of your leadership,” he affirmed, adding with confidence, “This is just the beginning of what we’ll do.”

Investigator news reports that for residents of Ezinifite, including the Traditional Ruler as well as President General of Ezinifite, the newly commissioned road is more than asphalt and gravel, but a symbol of hope and empowerment, marking a shift toward bottom-up development and signals that tangible progress is within reach when citizens take ownership of their communities.

January 10, 2026
Nigeria’s Governance Stagnates: Uninaugurated Federal Boards Spark Concerns.

Emmanuel lkpeama

The Forum of NGOs and CSOs for Sustainable Public Service has expressed deep concern over the continued non-inauguration of Federal Government Boards, Agencies, and Parastatals appointed over a year ago.

In a release signed by Comrade Abdullahi Shiro Convener Forum of NGOs and CSOs for Sustainable Public Service said that despite the appointments taking “immediate effect”, many institutions remain functionally handicapped,as this inaction has crippled institutions in critical sectors, including youth development, aviation, power, education, health, and science and technology.

He noted that the delay has created a gap between presidential intent and operational reality, undermining accountability, delaying reforms, and weakening service delivery.

“This situation has created a widening gap between presidential intent and operational reality. The appointments cut across over forty-six strategic institutions, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), NIMASA, ITF, river basin authorities, research councils, as well as numerous Federal Medical Centres and Teaching Hospitals nationwide.”

“Despite the official announcement that all appointments take immediate effect, the lack of formal inauguration ceremonies, instruments of office, and take-off briefings has stalled board-level governance. ”

“As a result, Chairmen and Members are unable to convene meetings, approve policies, exercise oversight, or provide strategic direction. This vacuum undermines accountability, delays reforms, and weakens service delivery to Nigerians.”

“For institutions already burdened by funding constraints, industrial disputes, decaying infrastructure, and declining public trust, the delay further compounds existing challenges. The contrast between this situation and the handling of ambassadorial appointments is striking.”the statement reads.

Comrade Shiro went further to note the contrast with ambassadorial appointments, which were swiftly processed, and demands equal urgency for domestic governance structures.

“Following sustained public criticism, diplomatic pressures, and concerns over Nigeria’s thinning representation abroad, the Presidency swiftly released a list of ambassadorial nominees who were promptly screened by the Senate of the National Assembly in Abuja.”

“This urgency reflected an acknowledgment that Nigeria’s diplomatic interests could not endure prolonged institutional silence.”

“Unfortunately, the same level of urgency has not been extended to domestic governance structures, even though their impact on the daily lives of Nigerians is more immediate and profound.”

“Board appointments are not ceremonial gestures or political rewards; they are essential constitutional and administrative mechanisms for policy direction, institutional checks, and strategic oversight.”

“Leaving boards uninaugurated effectively concentrates authority within management structures, weakens transparency, and defeats the purpose of board governance.”

“In sectors such as health and education, where many of the affected boards oversee Federal Medical Centres and Teaching Hospitals, the delays translate directly into stalled approvals, weakened supervision, and slower responses to urgent operational needs.”he stated

The Forum went further to call on the Federal Government to urgently inaugurate the appointed Chairmen, Board Members, and Chief Executives, and issue formal instruments of office to enable these institutions to resume full governance operations.

“Effective leadership does not end with appointments; it begins with empowering appointees to act,” says Comrade Abdullahi Shiro.

He emphasizes that Nigeria cannot afford to run vital public institutions on administrative autopilot.

January 8, 2026
Soludo Mourns Victims Of Lagos Island Fire Tragedy.

Emmanuel lkpeama

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed profound condolences and deep sorrow over the devastating fire incident that occurred and claimed lives at the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, on December 24, 2025.

In a release signed by his Chief Press Secretary,Mr Christian Aburime,Soludo commiserates with all families who lost loved ones in the unfortunate inferno, regretting that this catastrophic event, which transformed what should have been a joyous Christmas Eve into a night of unspeakable tragedy, has left numerous hearts heavy with grief.

Soludo who is particularly devastated by the loss of three sons of Anambra State, namely Mr. Steve Onyeka Omatu (40), Mr. Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Mr. Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37), brothers from the Omatu family of Uzoakwa Community in Ihiala Local Government Area,noted that these industrious young men,who were simply striving to earn an honest living for their families, have been taken from the society in the most tragic circumstances.

Their loss represents not just a family tragedy but a collective loss to Anambra State.

The Governor went further to commend the response of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire Service, and all other emergency responders who worked tirelessly to rescue victims and curtail the situation, while advising Anambra citizens residing in Lagos and other parts of the country to always prioritise human life and personal safety over recovering property and goods in the event of a fire outbreak.

Governor Soludo wishes all affected families the strength to bear and recover from their irreplaceable losses, while praying that the souls of all the departed rest in perfect peace.

He also called on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and ensure that appropriate measures are put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Investigator news reports that the three brothers Wake keep will be taking place on Wednesday 7, January 2026 at Jesus the Savior Catholic church in Buknor Ejigbo Lagos and the burial will take place on 17 January,2026 in their hometown in Ihiala Anambra State.

January 7, 2026
Kogi State Mourns Loss of Pioneer Environmentalist, Prof. Seth Ajayi

Emmanuel lkpeama

The Government and people of Kogi State have mourned the loss of Prof. Emeritus Seth Sunday Ajayi, the first African Professor of Wildlife and Fisheries Ecology, who died on January 5, 2026.

Ajayi, a renowned environmentalist and conservationist,born on 16th May 1943, brought honour to Kogi State, Nigeria, Africa, and the international community through his groundbreaking work in wildlife ecology,conservation, and sustainable development as he left an indelible mark on Nigeria and the world.

In a message signed by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications,Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo praised Ajayi’s contributions to wildlife ecology, conservation, and sustainable development including establishing the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Management at the University of Ibadan and shaping Nigeria’s environmental policies

He described the passing of Professor Ajayi as a monumental loss, not only to Kogi State but to the entire nation and the global scientific community.

The Governor notes that Professor Ajayi’s life was defined by knowledge, humility, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity.

“Professor Ajayi was a trailblazer. He made history as the first African Professor of Wildlife and Fisheries Ecology and as the Pioneer Head of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Management at the University of Ibadan, the first of its kind in Africa.”

“His academic leadership also extended to his service as Pioneer Dean of the College of Environmental Resources Management at the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, and Pioneer Director of the Centre for Environmental Protection and Natural Resources at the University of Ibadan.”

“His scientific contributions laid the foundation for the domestication and conservation of key African wildlife species, creating sustainable solutions for food security while preserving biodiversity.”

“These achievements earned him global recognition and lasting respect. In recognition of his exceptional service, Professor Ajayi was inducted into the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Global 500 Roll of Honour in 1994 and later conferred with the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) in 2013, Nigeria’s highest intellectual honour.”

“Beyond academia, Professor Ajayi played a critical role in shaping national policy. He was instrumental in the establishment of Nigeria’s National Parks Service, contributed to the development of the country’s environmental conservation framework, and served on several national and international advisory bodies, including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and the World Bank.”he said

Ododo went further to state that Professor Ajayi was not only a scholar of global standing but also a mentor, teacher, and nation builder who inspired generations of Nigerians.

“His legacy lives on through the countless students, researchers, and policymakers he nurtured.

“The Kogi State Government extends its heartfelt condolences to the Ajayi family, the academic community, and all those touched by the life and work of this great son of Kogi State.”

“We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”

“Kogi State will always remember Professor Emeritus Seth Sunday Ajayi for the pride he brought to our land and the lasting contributions he made to humanity.”he submitted

January 7, 2026
Governor Makinde Reshuffles Cabinet, Removes SSG.

Tunde Omoniyi

Oyo State Governor,Seyi Makinde on Monday 5, December 2026,announced a cabinet reshuffle that saw the removal of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and the appointment of new officials.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde has relieved the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Kudirat Adeyemo, of her appointment “with immediate effect.”

The governor has appointed Professor Musibau Adetunji Babatunde as the new Secretary to the State Government.

The statement went further to disclosed that Barrister Temilolu Seun Ashamu has been redeployed from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

Makinde also announced his Senior Special Assistant on Public Works, Ademola Aderinto, as a commissioner-designate.

Aderinto will be presented to the Oyo State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.

In addition, the governor approved the appointment of Honourable Abiodun Adedoja as Special Adviser on Energy Security, while Kolawole Elijah Akanmu was named Senior Special Assistant on Budget and Economic Planning.

Investigator news reports that the newly appointed SSG, Professor Babatunde, is a seasoned economist from the Department of Economics, University of Ibadan.

He previously served as Chief Economic Adviser to Governor Makinde during the governor’s first term and was later appointed Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning.

Babatunde is an alumnus of the University of Ibadan, where he obtained his B.Sc in Economics, as well as his Master’s and PhD degrees. He was awarded the Doctorate Degree in Economics on June 30, 2007, and joined the Department of Economics, University of Ibadan, as an Assistant Lecturer on November 1, 2006. He is currently a Professor in the department.

In September 2005, Babatunde was a recipient of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Doctoral Internship Visiting Scholar Support Award in Geneva, Switzerland.

He also emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student in the Master of Science degree in Economics at the University of Ibadan and won the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), Nairobi, Collaborative PhD Scholarship Award for African scholars.

His international experience includes serving as Director in the Industrial Policy Course in Africa and Domestic Resource Mobilisation for Investment for African Policy Makers at the United Nations African Institute for Economic Development and Planning (IDEP), Dakar, Senegal.

Babatunde has consulted on several national and state-level economic assignments, including the National Factsheet on the Impact of Economic Partnership Agreement on selected sectors of the Nigerian economy, export supply response capacity constraints in Nigeria, and output market initiatives.

His public sector assignments also include serving as Chief Consultant on the Niger State Economic Development Strategy in December 2008 and Coordinating Consultant on the Niger State Vision 3:2020 and Local Governments Vision 3:2020 documents in March 2010.

January 5, 2026
Transparency Triumph:House Releases Certified Tax Acts Amidst Controversy

Felicia Asuquo, Abuja

The House of Representatives, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has released the certified true copies of four tax reform Acts signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Acts, including the Nigeria Tax Act and Nigeria Tax Administration Act, were released amidst concerns over unauthorised versions in circulation.

From the initiation of the tax reform process through extensive stakeholder consultations, committee scrutiny, rigorous clause-by-clause consideration, robust plenary debates, and eventual passage, Speaker Abbas has provided firm and steady leadership to ensure that the reforms were evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with Nigeria’s fiscal realities and development priorities.

Speaker Abbas emphasised the National Assembly’s commitment to transparency and legislative integrity.

The four Acts released are: The Nigeria Tax Act, 2025,the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025,the National Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, 2025

The release follows a verification process, and certified copies are now available to the public.

These landmark legislations constitute the backbone of Nigeria’s contemporary tax reform architecture, designed to modernise revenue administration, improve compliance, reduce inefficiencies, eliminate duplications, and strengthen fiscal coordination across the federation.

In directing the release of the certified Acts, Speaker Abbas reassured Nigerians that the National Assembly remains an institution of records, guided by clearly defined rules, precedents, archival systems, and verification processes that safeguard the authenticity of every law enacted.

According to him: “The National Assembly is an institution built on records, procedure, and institutional memory. Every Bill, every amendment, and every Act follows a traceable constitutional and parliamentary pathway. Once a law is passed and assented to, its integrity is preserved through certification and custody by the legislature. There is no ambiguity about what constitutes the law.”

Speaker Abbas further emphasised that the House would remain vigilant and proactive in defending the integrity of its work, clarifying that the only authentic and authoritative versions of the four tax Acts are those certified and released by the National Assembly.

Members of the public, institutions, professionals, and stakeholders are therefore advised to disregard and discountenance any other documents or versions in circulation that are not certified by the National Assembly, as such materials do not form part of the official legislative record.

Consequently, the Clerk to the National Assembly has concluded the process of aligning the Acts – duly passed, assented to, and certified – with the Federal Government Printing Press to ensure accuracy, conformity, and uniformity.

Hard copies of the certified tax Acts have also been produced and are being circulated to all Honourable Members and Distinguished Senators, and made available to the public, to ensure institutional clarity, uniform reference, and legislative certainty.

Investigator news reports that the House affirms that the work of the Ad-Hoc Committee, chaired by Rt. Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, OON, continues, in line with its mandate, to determine the circumstances surrounding the circulation of unauthorised versions of the tax Acts and to recommend measures that will prevent a recurrence and preserve the authenticity and reliability of parliamentary records.

“The House of Representatives, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law, transparency, and accountable governance.”

“The House will continue to strengthen internal controls, uphold institutional discipline, and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative process in the collective interest of the Nigerian people.”the speaker reaffirmed.

January 4, 2026
Ododo Urges Kogites To Embrace Unity, Patriotism In New Year

Emmanuel lkpeama

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has called for unity and commitment to security, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to deliver more through prudent resource management and people-oriented governance.

In his New Year message, Ododo thanked God for protection and guidance, highlighting modest gains in security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and empowerment initiatives .

He said that despite challenges, the state recorded modest but significant gains across key sectors, including security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth and women empowerment, attributing the progress to discipline, unity of purpose, and the cooperation of citizens.

According to him, the New Year presents renewed hope and a stronger resolve by his administration to do more through prudent resource management, inclusive governance, and policies aimed at improving the quality of life of the people, expanding opportunities for youths, empowering women, and strengthening the state’s economy.

Ododo assured residents of deeper collaboration with security agencies to sustain peace, stressing that development thrives in a secure environment.

Ododo urged Kogites to reject division and leverage their diversity to build a prosperous state, pledging to serve with integrity and transparency.

He also expressed support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,noting that the President’s reforms have strengthened the economy and expanded resources available to sub-national governments for development.e

The governor went further to wish the people of Kogi State a peaceful, prosperous, and fulfilling New Year, while praying for continued progress for the state and the nation.

January 1, 2026
Soludo And A Year Anambra Shone In Brilliant Colours.

By Christian ABURIME

Just like that, a year of 365 days, 52 weeks has just completed its cycle. With its passage, many events, milestones and memories have been made. Indeed, the year 2025 will be etched in the history of Anambra State as a period of profound and intentional transformation, largely driven by the dynamic leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.

Far from being a regular administrator, Governor Soludo has proven to be a progressive, people-friendly, transformational governor whose policies have fundamentally reshaped the state and demonstrably improved the lives of Ndi Anambra across diverse sectors. His approach, well known as the Soludo Solution, is a masterclass in applying intellectual rigour and political will to the complex challenges of governance.

Governor Soludo’s leadership in 2025 was characterised by an uncompromising intentionality, moving beyond quick fixes to implement deep, structural reforms. This progressive mindset is best exemplified by his focus on human capital development, infrastructure, security, and economic transformation, among others.

Recognising that a state’s greatest asset is its people, the Soludo administration implemented free education from kindergarten to secondary public schools. In 2025, the free education policy was extended to cover all public primary and secondary schools (up to SS3), removing all previously hidden fees and levies. An additional 3,115 teachers were recruited between 2024 and 2025, adding to the initial 5,000, bringing the total number of newly recruited teachers to 8,115 to date in order to address staffing gaps in schools with competent and qualified teachers

The administration also initiated the transformation of 22 secondary schools into smart schools, with plans for more, to integrate technology and modernise learning environments. In addition, 60 secondary school laboratories were equipped with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) equipment. Laptop computers were distributed to principals and head-teachers.

The Solution Innovation District (SID) trained over 20,000 youths in digital skills through initiatives like the Code Anambra Programme. Entrepreneurship and Ethics were introduced into the primary and secondary school curriculum to foster innovative thinking and moral values.

The foregoing investments in education have resulted severally in Anambra State leading in national educational indices, even as Anambra students continue to win national competitions and awards for academic excellence.

It was the same positive story in the healthcare sector of the state in 2025. Anambra was recognised as the best-performing state in primary healthcare delivery in the Southeast and the overall best in Nigeria, receiving prize money of $1.2 million from partners including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and UNICEF.

The free antenatal care and delivery services (including caesarean sections) for all pregnant women in public health facilities continued, with over 161,000 women benefiting and a near-zero maternal mortality rate reported in these cases.

Four out of five new general hospitals in local government areas that previously had none were completed and some were commissioned. The construction and modernisation of 326 primary healthcare centres across the state reached advanced stages, with the facilities being equipped with solar power, boreholes, and essential equipment. The Trauma Centre at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital was also completed.

Over 1,000 health workers, including doctors, nurses, and consultants, were recruited. And the state migrated to a digitalised healthcare system with the introduction of telemedicine for remote consultations. What’s more, the state government activated specialised units such as a mammography unit at General Hospital, Onitsha, a refurbished dialysis centre, and construction of an eye care centre.

In the area of economic empowerment in 2025, the One-Youth-Two-Skills Plus programme stands out. By providing digital training and grants to over 8,300 beneficiaries, the programme has successfully created thousands of young millionaires, breeding a new generation of entrepreneurs and reducing the state’s reliance on traditional employment. This is a clear demonstration of a people-friendly policy that directly addresses youth unemployment and wealth creation.

The physical transformation of Anambra State under Governor Soludo’s watch has been nothing short of remarkable in 2025. The governor’s commitment to infrastructure is quantified by the over 1,000 kilometres of roads under construction, with a significant portion of 700kms already completed, including the dualisation of major highways and construction of flyovers. Furthermore, the Zero Pothole Programme has rehabilitated over 700 km of existing roads, drastically improving connectivity and commerce.

Perhaps, the most symbolic achievement of Governor Soludo’s urban renewal agenda is the transformation of the infamous Okpoko slum in Onitsha. What was once a symbol of urban decay has been converted into a modern haven, complete with asphalted roads, a general hospital, streetlights, and pipe-borne water. This project is a beautiful proof of the governor’s commitment to inclusive development, ensuring that the benefits of governance reach the most marginalised communities.

A stable and secure environment is the bedrock of economic progress, and Governor Soludo’s administration tackled the security challenges head-on. The deployment of the state security system, Agunechemba, and the success of Operation Udo Ga-Achi (Peace Shall Reign) have been instrumental in curtailing criminality. Through a combination of kinetic force and a non-kinetic amnesty programme, communities like Ihiala, which were previously under siege, have been liberated, allowing residents and churches to return. In fact, the year’s Christmas was celebrated without any incident of insecurity anywhere in the whole state.

Anambra is now widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s safest states, a crucial factor for attracting investment.The global community has also recognised Governor Soludo’s exceptional performance. In September 2025, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80), Governor Soludo clinched a ‘Triple Crown’ of international honours, including the African Governor of the Year Award and the African Public Service Excellence Award. This international endorsement validates his Solution Agenda and reinforces his reputation as a global voice on progressive governance.

Among several other milestones, it was in the same 2025 that the newly completed Government House complex, aptly named Light House, and the Solution Fun City were commissioned in grand style by no other personality than the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. Within the Solution Fun City facility, Governor Soludo also personally commissioned the exquisite Anambra Country Club. And to cap a spectacularly eventful year, the Anambra State Government powered ‘Onwa Dezemba’, an extravaganza of festive activities that have serenaded Ndi Anambra all through the Christmas/New Year season.

The ultimate validation of Governor Soludo’s people-friendly policies came in November 2025, when he secured a landslide re-election victory, winning all 21 local government areas. This unprecedented show of solidarity was an unprecedented, resounding vote of confidence from Ndi Anambra, who have directly experienced the positive transformation in their lives.

In all, although there were a few security challenges and controversies, Governor Soludo’s 2025 tenure was a resonant demonstration of what intentional, progressive, and people-friendly leadership can achieve. From revitalising education, healthcare and empowering youth, to building roads, administrative and tourism infrastructure, transforming slums and securing the state, his policies have reinforced a solid foundation for a prosperous future, truly transforming Anambra State and the lives of Ndi Anambra for the better. Definitely, a much happier New Year is what Governor Soludo is taking Anambra to in 2026!

January 1, 2026