Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, said his administration chose not to take a World Bank loan to avoid a “debt overhang.” Speaking on Sunday during an inspection tour of the ongoing Government House and Governor’s Lodge project in Awka, he explained that the loan agreement, signed before he took office, had unsustainable terms that would burden future generations.
Governor Soludo also mentioned that his state did not borrow from any financial institution and even declined a N438bn loan offer from the Federal Government in 2024, which was distributed among 35 states. “I need money, but I cannot borrow my state into slavery,” he added.
He highlighted his administration’s focus on people-oriented projects, including the construction of a permanent Government House and Governor’s Lodge—34 years after Anambra State was created. He expressed regret that previous administrations operated from temporary offices while the Governor’s Lodge was located outside Awka. “The new facility is a magnificent project comprising about 34 buildings, designed to last for the next 200 years—just like the White House in America,” he said.
Governor Soludo also pointed to other achievements in infrastructure, such as constructing over 750 kilometers of roads, with 410 kilometers already completed. He noted significant progress in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and social reorientation. His goal is to restore dignity in labor and fight the growing “get-rich-quick” mentality among the youth.
He reassured Anambra residents that his administration remains committed to financial transparency, promising that every kobo spent will be accounted for. Members of the media team, including Mr. Kamen Ogbonna, and Nollywood actors, such as Steve Alajemba and Collins Monago, praised Soludo’s work. They urged residents to support his administration as the state prepares for the November 8 governorship election.
