Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for his contributions to nation-building, describing him as a leader committed to unity, development, and institutional growth.
Shettima made the remarks while representing President Bola Tinubu at the inauguration and swearing-in of Soludo and his deputy, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, for a second term in Awka, the state capital.
He described Soludo as a man of ideas and integrity who has remained focused on national progress despite prevailing political challenges.
“The policies of President Bola Tinubu have benefited from the candour, insight, and patriotic counsel of this distinguished economist,” Shettima said.
He added that Soludo’s engagement with national issues—both publicly and privately—reflects a commitment to placing national interest above partisan politics.
According to the Vice President, Soludo’s leadership style demonstrates that governance can unify people without division and inspire progress without conflict.
“It is no surprise that his people have entrusted him with another term. They are renewing not just a mandate, but a covenant with competence,” he stated.
Shettima also highlighted the importance of teamwork in governance, noting that the role of the deputy governor is critical in translating vision into tangible progress.
He further observed that Soludo’s maturity and approach to governance have fostered a productive relationship between Anambra State and the federal government, enabling stability and development.
The Vice President pointed out that under Soludo’s leadership, deliberate efforts have been made to restore order, improve security, and tackle criminal activities in parts of the state.
He expressed confidence that the governor’s second term would focus on consolidating achievements and building on existing foundations.
In his inaugural address, Soludo reiterated his commitment to advancing development across key sectors, including health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
He thanked the people of Anambra for their overwhelming support in the last election, noting that the mandate was a strong endorsement of his administration.
“The unprecedented 73 percent of votes was an affirmation of partnership in rebuilding our homeland,” Soludo said.
The governor also pledged to work inclusively, promising to deliver on his vision of transforming Anambra into a major economic hub by 2030.
Dignitaries at the event included former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, former governor Chris Ngige, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, among others.
Deji Elumoye in Abuja