By Ifeanyi Ndukwe
In a dazzling gathering of Nigeria’s elite, the International Conference Centre in Awka buzzed with energy as Dr. Anselm Onuorah unveiled his latest work, ”The Audacity to Transform”. The book is a compelling tribute to the first term of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, capturing his bold reforms and service-driven leadership in Anambra State.
The event opened with a drumroll of anticipation as dignitaries, professionals, traditional rulers, bankers and stakeholders filled the hall. The air was charged with respect. The moment the book cover was revealed, applause erupted.
Dr. Onuorah’s work is not just a mere biography. It is a strategic narrative; a front-row testimony on governance in motion. The 283-page work is split into 10 chapters and merges context-building with hard analysis, detailing Soludo’s journey from scholar to statesman.
Prof. Osita Ogbu (OON), representing former President Olusegun Obasanjo, described the book as “timely and transformational.” He praised Soludo’s interventions in education, health, and security, saying they reflected a Governor who honoured his mandate.
Chief Sir Osita Chidoka, the book’s reviewer, broke down its architecture:
Chapters 1–3 set the historical and ideological foundation;
Chapters 4–6 showcase the administration’s transformational thrust;
Chapters 7–8 explore governance and security strategies;
Chapters 9–10 look ahead, dissecting political vision.
He called the work, “no campaign souvenir”, but “an intellectual application of practical governance,” and argued that Soludo’s ideas should be benchmarked not just in Nigeria, but globally.
Former Governor, Ahmed Adamu Muazu, spoke as both friend and admirer, declaring that Anambra was witnessing positive transformation under Soludo’s leadership.
Finally, Governor Chukwuma Soludo rose to express genuine surprise and gratitude at being portrayed in book form. He urged unity and cooperation, affirming that the documented successes were only the beginning.
While the book contextualizes the Governor’s journey, the real-world impact is visible across Anambra today:
Over 8,100 teachers have been recruited, public schools made free, enrollment jumped by 18.7%, and out-of-school children dropped to a national low of 2.9%.
Under healthcare; five new hospitals, 326 upgraded health centres (many solar-powered), deployment of 1,000 medical personnel, free ante-natal and delivery services, and zero maternal deaths.
In infrastructure, a total of over 700 km of roads under construction (with 420 km completed), flyovers, Zero-Pothole initiatives, a permanent Government House after 34 years, and city-scale regeneration in Awka, Onitsha, and new industrial zones.
Also, the “Agunechemba” security offensive has driven out kidnappers, cultists, and ritualists. Touting in Onitsha has become rare; neighborhoods previously under gunmen now breathe freer air.
His ”One Youth, Two Skills” programme has empowered 5,000 youths; the Solution Innovation District is grooming about 20,000 tech experts.
Interestingly, all these strides have been made without borrowing a kobo. Prof. Soludo has steered Anambra to top ranks in fiscal sustainability via prudent budgeting and financial accountability.
The ”Audacity to Transform” offers more than praise. It captures the vision-driven governance that anchors Soludo’s every move, x-raying the tension between ideal and reality taking cognizance of the challenges, trade-offs, and bold steps.
It is a compelling argument that public service can be audacious, bold, and faithful. It is not mere tribute; it is witnessing governance in the crucible of change.
In a political age of rhetoric, ‘The ”Audacity to Transform” reframes leadership as a lived enterprise. Governor Soludo’s tenure is not about flashiness. It is about quiet infrastructure, bold vision, and uncompromising execution.
This book lets us peer behind the curtain into a Governor’s mind and method, and imagine what could come next.
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