Anambra at 35: Soludo declares state of emergency on environment

The Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has congratulated the people of the state on its 35th anniversary, reminding the people that the occasion is a call to action for the future the state is building to ensure a healthier, more livable, and more prosperous Anambra.

Soludo used the occasion to declare a state of emergency on the environment, warning that worsening gully erosion, flooding and land degradation pose an existential threat to the state.

He made the declaration in a statewide broadcast in Awka as Anambra marked 35 years of statehood, while unveiling a renewed “Clean and Green Initiative”, aimed at strengthening environmental protection through community participation and individual responsibility.

The governor said his administration had made notable progress in addressing insecurity since assuming office, but described environmental degradation as Anambra’s “number one existential threat.”

He said, “Today, we mark 35 years of Anambra State. This anniversary is not just about remembering the past. It is a call to action for the future we are building together — a healthier, more livable, and more prosperous Anambra for our children.

“As we celebrate how far we have come, we must also look ahead. And the future we want demands that we pay urgent attention to our environment.

“Across the world, nations are choosing green over grey. For us in Anambra, it is time to be intentional. We must move from concrete jungles to a green Anambra — with trees, clean waterways, and communities protected from erosion and flooding.

“Government cannot do this alone. The erosion and flooding that have claimed homes and farmlands will only be curbed when every citizen plays their part — plant a tree, stop indiscriminate dumping, protect our drains, and keep our surroundings clean.

“Let us choose green. Let us choose the future.”

Similarly, the wife of the governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, used the occasion to hail Anambra residents for their resilient journey in the last 35 years, thanking the people for their continuous effort in making the state a land of promise and great possibilities.

She said, “35 years of Anambra is a celebration of our resilient journey, our greatness, and the remarkable people who have continued to make our dear state a land of promise and great possibilities.

“From the strength of our communities to the unmatched brilliance of our people, Anambra has always been defined by enterprise, resilience, courage, culture, and an unwavering belief in what is possible.

“As we mark 35 years of statehood, may we continue to build an Anambra where every child can dream, every family can thrive, and every community can look to the future with confidence.

“To our great people at home and elsewhere, Happy 35th Anniversary of the creation of our dear state, the Light of the Nation!

“May Anambra continue to rise, prosper, glow and win. Happy Anniversary, Anambra!”