Lawrence Ndubeze, Awka
As the 2025 Anambra State governorship election approaches, the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State has declared overwhelming support for the re-election of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.
The group, comprising over 20,000 members from across Nigeria’s 35 states and beyond, made the declaration during an endorsement rally organised in collaboration with the Anambra Patriots for Soludo — one of the leading support groups for the governor’s re-election bid.
Leaders of the association praised Governor Soludo’s people-oriented policies, particularly in health, education, and infrastructure, which they said have benefited both indigenes and non-indigenes alike.
The Traditional Ruler of Non-Indigenes in Anambra, HRH Ambassador Dr. Amos Nkwuda (Igwe Ndi Obia), described Soludo as “a true patriot and Nigerian” who does not discriminate based on gender, tribe, or state of origin.
Nkwuda commended the governor for his free healthcare and education policies, saying they have “restored hope and laughter” to residents of the state.
“He has rebuilt many abandoned properties in Anambra and offered us quality healthcare and education through inclusive policies. His government reaches out to everyone, regardless of tribe or state of origin. We will mobilize our members and friends to vote massively for him,” he said.
Also speaking, a leader of the Ebonyi community in Anambra, Chief Moses Agbom, vowed that the group would ensure Soludo’s victory in all 326 electoral wards and 21 local government areas during the November 8 election.
Agbom said Ebonyi indigenes were particularly grateful to the governor for empowering their members through free shop allocations at the Solution Modern Market, Ekwulobia, and employment opportunities across the state.
“Solution’s government makes us proud. With Soludo, good governance is guaranteed. We feel at home in Anambra and will fully support him to continue his good works,” he affirmed.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of Anambra Patriots for Soludo, Chief Ejiamatu Enekwechi, said their group’s decision to support the governor was based on his “tireless efforts” in infrastructure development, especially the dualization of major roads.
He disclosed that the group had mobilized resources to support Soludo’s re-election campaign and would ensure massive voter turnout among its members and their relatives.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Soludo emphasized unity, inclusivity, and active citizenship as pillars of his administration.
He urged residents to embrace a collective sense of belonging, stating: “Once you live in Anambra, you are from Anambra and treated equally.”
The governor highlighted that his administration had recruited 8,115 teachers from 18 different states in its first nine months, describing it as proof of inclusivity in governance.
“The best driver I’ve ever had is not from Anambra. The finest minds I’ve worked with are from across the country. We are one people,” he said.
Soludo reiterated his government’s commitment to free education in all public primary and secondary schools, as well as free antenatal and delivery services for pregnant women — policies he noted are accessible to everyone, irrespective of origin.
He called on residents to participate actively in the upcoming election: “Wherever you live should be your home. It is the duty of every citizen to vote come November 8,” he urged.
Governor Soludo concluded by appreciating the growing grassroots ownership of his campaign.
“This is the first time in Anambra that the people themselves have taken ownership of a campaign — donating their resources to support it. We are still at the introductory stage of developing Anambra,” he stated.
