By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Barr. Pauly Onyeka, has rated high the transformative efforts of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in facilitating multi-sectoral development across the state.
Interacting with journalists in Awka on Thursday, the commissioner detailed various impactful initiatives, stressing that the government’s approach is rooted in strategic, inclusive, and sustainable development aimed at uplifting the entire state. He pointed out the significance of foundational documents guiding the administration’s policies, such as the ‘People’s Manifesto’ of the Governor, the 2017 Transition Committee Report, and the Anambra Vision 2070 document, which, he explained, are vital in providing the framework for the critical developments aimed at transforming Anambra into a highly developed state; further reiterating that every area of governance receives attention and resources.
Hon. Onyeka began by emphasizing that Governor Soludo’s administration has not only prioritized infrastructural development but has also tackled broader social and economic challenges.
The Commissioner noted that Governor Soludo is dedicated to a comprehensive development strategy, understanding that Anambra’s progress requires simultaneous investments in infrastructure, housing, and social amenities. He highlighted that the administration’s vision seeks to meet the diverse needs of various sectors cohesively, rather than prioritizing one area over others.
Highlighting the achievements in road infrastructure, Hon. Onyeka pointed out that several major road projects are currently being executed, connecting previously inaccessible areas. He cited the Amansea to Ebenebe road project as a prime example, explaining how land values in the area have soared from around N500,000 per plot to between N3 million and N4 million due to improved accessibility. This improved access, he said, has sparked a rise in real estate investments, enabling private developers to construct housing estates, thereby also helping to address the housing deficit and lower rental cost.
While expressing pride in the ongoing construction of over 480 kilometers of roads in different parts of the State, with approximately 300 kilometers already completed, the Commissioner emphasized that these roads are built to last for no less than 20 years before maintenance is required.
He also clarified that, while the government is actively investing in these infrastructure, it does not intend to replace real estate developers, but aims to create an enabling environment conducive to private sector investments, re-emphasizing that the government’s role is to provide the infrastructure necessary to stimulate development and economic activities.
Despite this strategy and effort, Commissioner Onyeka, however, reassured the public that plans are underway for low-cost housing through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), citing an upcoming housing project at Isiagu, which aims to create thousands of residential units for civil servants and other residents; as well as efforts to remodel existing government estates for improved accommodation.
Addressing concerns about recurring building collapses in the state, the Commissioner attributed the issue to non-compliance with building regulations. He lamented the negligence of individuals who overlook proper procedures, leading to unsafe structures. He insisted that compliance with building codes is crucial and urged developers to consult relevant government agencies to ensure all construction projects adhere to regulatory standards.
He also revealed plans for establishing a Building Control Agency, which will oversee the certification of building projects at every stage to ensure safety and compliance. He explained that this agency will inspect and certify constructions from foundation to roofing, which he believes will significantly reduce the risk of building collapses and ensure the erection of safe structures throughout Anambra.
Hon. Onyeka praised Governor Soludo’s commitment to security and social welfare, noting the administration’s investments in surveillance and technology to combat crime. He emphasized that a safe environment is essential for economic growth, real estate development, and attracting investors, adding that discussions about housing or infrastructure must also prioritize security. He also noted the establishment of a security base camp at various senatorial zones and strategic places to enhance safety in the state, while reassuring the administration’s commitment to restoring peace in vulnerable areas.
While noting that his Ministry is more like a service ministry — building for other MDAs — the Housing Commissioner provided further highlights of the Governor’s achievements in other sectors, emphasizing that the Soludo Administration is distinct from previous governments, as at shows a genuine commitment to transformative projects that genuinely benefit the populace.
Discussing the ongoing construction of a new Government House, a project that has been neglected for over three decades, he lamented that for over 33 years, previous governors operated from makeshift facilities, until the Solution Government arrived and took the bold decision to construct a new Government House, which he confidently asserts will be the finest in all of Africa.
According to him, the new Government House, spanning 22.8 hectares, will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including security posts, clinics, and accommodations for essential personnel, as well as Nigeria’s first-ever amphitheater and a spacious banquet hall.
Commissioner Onyeka also mentioned the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability through policies that maintain green spaces and prevent water runoff from households. He emphasized the need for the government to lead by example, as typified in the environmental sustainability measures put in place in the ongoing new Government House.
In the health sector, the Commissioner elaborated on broader healthcare initiatives of the Solution Government, particularly the construction, the renovation, and the upgrading of major hospitals across the state into referral centers equipped to handle complex medical cases, while primary health centers are also being renovated to enhance health services.
“Mr. Governor started with the three general hospitals — the one at Enugwu-Ukwu that will serve the Anambra Central Senatorial zone, the one at Ekwulobia that will serve the Anambra South Senatorial zone, and then the one at Umueri that will serve the Anambra North sanitary Zone.
“Also, we now have Okpoko General Hospital, for the first time. Today, that place that used to be neglected is now called a new heaven. And there are also many other health facilities the government is executing in many other parts of the State today, with many completed already,” he said, adding that the administration is also constructing a Trauma Center at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku, as part of its efforts to establish Anambra as a hub for medical tourism.
“This facility will be the best in the country and of the highest standard in Africa,” he Commissioner remarked, reiterating the government’s dedication to improving healthcare standards.
In education, Hon. Onyeka stated that his ministry is working to improve school facilities, ensuring they meet world-class standards. He mentioned some ongoing projects at several secondary schools across the state, including Ugbo Orimimil, Urban Boys, Ado Girls, Urban Secondary School, Nkpor, among other schools, where he said the government is refacing the facilities to be of world standard.
The Commissioner drew attention to the administration’s plans to boost tourism and recreation in the state, as is evidenced in the ongoing construction of the Solution Fun City, a massive entertainment and recreation center springing up in Awka, designed to attract tourists and provide leisure facilities for residents. Additionally, he highlighted ongoing development at Agulu Lake and other tourist centers in the state, which will transform them into top-tier tourism destinations with modern amenities, thereby contributing to the state’s economic growth.
The Commissioner also noted that the transformative works of the Soludo Administration also extends to the other arms of government. In the judiciary, he recalled that previously dilapidated High Courts and Magistrate Courts buildings in the state have been extensively renovated and equipped with solar power to ensure continuous operations. He also revealed that five new Judges’ Quarters are currently under construction, while a cutting-edge court complex is being developed at the State Court Headquarters to provide modern facilities for the judiciary.
For the legislative arm, the Commissioner mentioned that the Anambra State House of Assembly complex has received a major infrastructural facelift, with the renovation comprising landscaping, road markings, and state-of-the-art security installations.
Concluding, Hon. Onyeka reiterated the Soludo Administration’s intentional and strategic approach to development across all sectors, stating that they are committed to creating a strong foundation for future generations and ensuring that no sector or community is left behind.
“We don’t just talk; we deliver results. Our actions speak for themselves, and we remain committed to the development of Anambra State in every possible way,” he said.
