By Lady TC
One of the strongest contenders of Anambra state Government seat Valentine Ozigbo, has asked Ndi Anambra the very thought provoking question of “What did Gov Soludo do with 487 Billion Naira in his analysis of the current state of the economy in Anambra State.
In a recent edition of his #WakeUpSeries, Valentine Ozigbo had cast a critical spotlight on the economic landscape of Anambra State, raising pertinent questions about the utilization of the state’s funds and the current administration’s economic policies.
Ozigbo, in an incisive analysis of socio-economic issues, expressed deep concern over the widening gap between expectations and reality in Anambra’s economic sphere, particularly given the state’s rich history as a thriving hub of commerce and industry.
“Despite being led by Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, a world renowned economist, in 30 months of his administration, Anambra’s economic potential remains largely untapped.
“The crux of my analysis revolves around a staggering figure of 487 Billion Naira. This sum, representing the state’s financial resources over the past two and a half years, forms the basis of my pointed inquiry to Ndi Anambra about the tangible impacts of such significant funding,” he noted.
Ozigbo painted a vivid picture of Anambra’s economic assets, from the sprawling markets of Onitsha to the bustling auto parts industry in Nnewi and the emerging tech scene in Awka.
However, he lamented that these potential economic powerhouses are struggling under the weight of inadequate infrastructure and what he termed “unfavorable stifling policies.”
Of particular concern to Ozigbo is the plight of small businesses, which he described as the “lifeblood of Anambra’s economy.” These enterprises, along with larger corporations, are grappling with challenges that have led to reduced productivity and, in some cases, outright closures. This situation, Ozigbo argued, was exacerbating unemployment and increasing hardship for the average Ndi Anambra.
The #WakeUpSeries also shed light on the administration’s approach to tax collection and fund utilization. While increased internally generated revenue (IGR) was promised to fuel development projects.
Ozigbo questioned the visible impact of these funds, noting slow progress in critical infrastructure projects necessary for economic growth.
“Perhaps most alarmingly, is insecurity which has become the “most cancerous challenge” to Anambra’s economic growth. This pervasive issue, has become a leading cause of capital flight, deterring investments and hampering the natural “Think Home” philosophy of Ndi Anambra,” he argued.
Ozigbo called for urgent and decisive action in the sight of these challenges, he emphasized the need for Governor Soludo to work closely with the Federal Government and stakeholders to create the peace and security necessary for economic prosperity.
Additionally, he advocated for: a re-evaluation of economic strategies, prioritizing infrastructure development and fostering a more business-friendly environment, transparency in the use of state funds and closer collaboration with the private sector.
He maintained that Anambra’s potential for economic greatness remains vast, but noted it requires a return to the innovative spirit that has long defined Ndi Anambra and a departure from what he described as the prevailing “toxic business environment.”
“As the #WakeUpSeries continues to spark crucial conversations about Anambra’s future, my analysis serves as both a call to action and a reminder of the state’s untapped potentials.
The question now remains: How will Ndi Anambra and their leaders respond to this clarion call for economic revitalization?” he reiterated.
