By Christian ABURIME
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has lauded the people of Nanka for their unwavering commitment to community development, describing the recent infrastructure strides in the town as a testament to “living for a higher purpose.”
Speaking at the official commissioning of a strategic 2.5 kilometer road project in Enugwu Nanka, the Governor used the platform to express deep gratitude to the community for their massive support during the last election, promising that his administration remains dedicated to reciprocating their trust with tangible development.
The highlight of the event was the Governor’s high praise for the private individual behind the project, Engr Geoffrey. Nwankwo.
Governor Soludo held up the philanthropist as a shining example of the “Think Home” philosophy that his administration has championed since inception.
“To the people of Nanka, let us celebrate Engr Nwankwo,” Governor Soludo declared. “Nobody has it all; it takes a special heart to take what you have and give it back to the public. He should be emulated by all Ndi Anambra. You will be remembered for these good works long after you are gone.”
The Governor noted that the construction of the road serves as a celebration of the “Anambra Spirit”—a unique blend of individual success and communal responsibility.
Beyond the road commissioning, Governor Soludo addressed immediate community needs, specifically focusing on the Afo Udo Market. To enhance security and organization within the trading hub, he announced that the state government would undertake the fencing of the market to prevent encroachment and unauthorized activities.
Governor Soludo expressed optimism that with the “renewed peace” returning to the community, the pace of development in Nanka and across Anambra would be significantly accelerated, acknowledging that Nanka has long been known for its history of self-help and community service, calling it a bedrock of their identity.
Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene who spoke on behalf of the community, reaffirmed the commitment of private citizens to the Governor’s vision.
He told the Governor that the community sees itself as active partners in his administration’s private-sector initiatives, noting that the influx of individual-led projects is a direct “appreciation of the good works” the Governor has been doing across the state.
Okeke-Ogene revealed that the project benefactor, Engr. Nwankwo, has a long-standing record of charity, having already built more than 15 houses for widows and indigent members of the community before taking on the 2.5km road project.
He boldly stated that from this point forward, the Governor would be kept busy commissioning many more roads built by individuals, as Nanka and other communities are now inspired to take charge of their local infrastructure.
In an emotional address, the benefactor of the road project, Engr. Geoffrey Nwankwo, expressed his gratitude and shared the personal motivation behind the massive undertaking.
Engr. Nwankwo stated that he was humbled by the Governor’s presence.
He revealed that the road is named after his late father—a man he described as “rich in values, though not wealthy”—whose principles guided his path to success.
Addressing his kinsmen, he emphasized that the project belongs to the people. “To ndị Enugwu Nanka, this road is about us,” he said.
Engr Nwankwo further urged a shift in focus from “individual success to collective success,” issuing a stern call for the community to take ownership of the infrastructure, insisting that “what we build together must not be allowed to deteriorate tomorrow.”
He concluded by noting that the road is already producing “meaningful impacts” for the future, praying that it would bring
safety, progress, and prosperity to all who use it.
The ceremony ended with a celebratory tour of the new road, as the Nanka community turned out in large numbers to cheer both the Governor and their illustrious son, Mr. Nwankwo, for their collaborative efforts in changing the face of the town.
