The renowned Anambra State International Passenger and Cargo Airport will now bear the name of the acclaimed Nigerian novelist, Professor Chinua Achebe. This decision was announced by the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, during his 2023 Independence Day speech.
Governor Soludo highlighted the importance of recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to society beyond the realm of public service. While acknowledging the deserving nature of previous honorees from Anambra State, the governor emphasized the need to celebrate icons who embody the values and ideals that the state wishes to uphold.
In his address, Governor Soludo stated, “Today, we reflect on our journey so far and look towards the future. However, in shaping our future, we must draw inspiration from our heroes of the past – their patriotism, selflessness, vision, and actions in building this nation. Today, I pay tribute to all our heroes, whose labor should never be in vain. We must continue to remember and honor them.”
The governor expressed his satisfaction with the efforts made by the Federal Government and various state governments in immortalizing national figures through the naming of streets, roads, stadia, airports, buildings, universities, libraries, and institutions. Notable figures that have been honored in this way include Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tafawa Balewa, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, and many more.
Governor Soludo highlighted examples from Anambra State, where former governors had renamed institutions in honor of distinguished individuals. These instances include the renaming of Anambra State University by former Gov. Peter Obi after Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu and the renaming of the Women Development Centre by former Gov. Willie Obiano after Dora Akunyili. Furthermore, the Federal University in Ebonyi State was renamed Alex Ekwueme Federal University, and the newly constructed airport by former Gov. Dave Umahi was named Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo Airport, Ebonyi.
The governor emphasized that not only political figures but also unsung heroes from various fields should be celebrated and given recognition. He emphasized the importance of human capital as Anambra State’s greatest resource and noted the state’s abundance of academicians, entrepreneurs, professionals, and members of the clergy.
One such unsung hero recognized by Governor Soludo is the renowned Professor Chinua Achebe. Describing him as a central figure of modern African literature, the governor praised Achebe’s influential works. He highlighted Achebe’s magnum opus, “Things Fall Apart,” as one of the most widely studied, translated, and read African novels. Governor Soludo further asserted that Achebe’s impact on African literature provided a voice and identity to African culture and heritage.
Governor Soludo acknowledged that Achebe had previously rejected Nigeria’s National Honours in protest against perceived injustices to his home state of Anambra. However, he affirmed that it was time for Anambra State to honor Achebe appropriately. After consultations, it was unanimously agreed that Anambra’s first airport should bear the name of the literary legend. As a result, the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport in Umueri will be renamed the Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri. Governor Soludo expressed his intentions to work with the Federal Government to uphold the airport’s international status.
This decision represents a significant step in recognizing the enduring legacy of Chinua Achebe, not only as an Anambra hero but also as a Nigerian, African, and global icon. By renaming the airport, Anambra State aims to honor Achebe’s invaluable contributions to literature, his role in shaping African identity and consciousness, and his lasting impact on the world stage.
