Anambra Governor Soludo Sworn in for Second Term Amid National Dignitaries
Awka—Prof. Chukwuma Soludo was formally inaugurated as the Governor of Anambra State for a second term on Tuesday, marking the commencement of his final four-year tenure in office. The swearing-in ceremony, held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, was attended by a significant assembly of national political figures and traditional leaders.
The event began with Governor Soludo’s arrival at 11:18 a.m., accompanied by his wife, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo. His entrance was preceded by a delegation of top dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. The gathering also featured elder statesmen such as former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
At precisely 11:50 a.m., Chief Judge of Anambra State administered the oath of allegiance, followed by the oath of office, which Governor Soludo completed in approximately five minutes. Dr. Soludo stood beside her husband throughout both oaths. Following the oaths, the governor signed the instruments of office at 11:55 a.m. amidst applause from the attendees, officially confirming his return to the governorship.
The inauguration concludes the electoral process that saw Soludo, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), re-elected in the 2021 governorship election. His first term, which began in March 2022 after a Supreme Court ruling, was characterized by initiatives in infrastructure, education, and economic policy. This second term, which will run until 2030, provides a full four-year mandate to continue and expand his administration’s programmes.
The presence of the Vice President and two former presidents underscored the national significance of Anambra State, a key economic and political hub in southeastern Nigeria. The broad coalition of political and traditional figures at the ceremony highlighted efforts toward fostering regional and national unity.
With the oaths administered, Governor Soludo’s focus now shifts to governing for the remainder of his term. His administration is expected to prioritize the implementation of its ongoing development agenda, while navigating the economic and security challenges prevalent in the region. The peaceful transfer of power, despite the state’s complex political history, signals a consolidation of democratic processes in Anambra. The governor’s renewed mandate allows him to pursue long-term projects without the constraints of an initial term, aiming to leave a lasting legacy upon the conclusion of his tenure in 2030.
