Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, on Sunday participated in an interdenominational thanksgiving service to commemorate the conclusion of his first term in office. The Governor is scheduled to be sworn in for a second term on Tuesday following his victory in the state’s November 8, 2023, governorship election.
The service, attended by clergy from various Christian denominations across Nigeria, also included Soludo’s predecessor, Dr. Chris Ngige. During his address, Governor Soludo attributed his tenure to divine purpose, stating his lifelong prayer was to use the life and health granted by God to serve his state.
He thanked religious and community leaders for their support over the past four years and pledged continued developmental efforts across all regions of Anambra. “In terms of development, you ain’t seen nothing yet,” Soludo remarked, urging citizens to collaborate in building a new Anambra defined by “hard work and enterprise,” rather than criminal elements.
The officiating sermon was delivered by the Anglican Archbishop of the Awka Diocese, Rt. Rev. Alexander Ibezim, who outlined the qualities of effective leadership. He emphasized that leaders must possess listening skills and compassion, while acknowledging the inherent difficulties of governance, particularly in a complex state like Anambra.
The interdenominational gathering served as both a ceremonial closure of Soludo’s initial term and a spiritual prelude to his inauguration. The event underscored the role of faith leaders in the state’s political landscape and highlighted the administration’s intent to frame its next phase around themes of renewal and inclusive growth. The swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday will formally commence Governor Soludo’s second four-year term.
