By ConfirmNews | May 8, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Anambra State on Thursday to a grand reception at the Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri, as he commenced an official working visit to the South-East region.
The Nigerian leader touched down at exactly 12:17 p.m. aboard a Nigerian Air Force Airbus and was warmly welcomed by Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, alongside his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, members of the State House of Assembly, and several high-profile dignitaries from the state.
Dressed in the iconic Akwete Igbo fabric with a red cap to reflect the cultural heritage of the region, President Tinubu stepped onto the ceremonial podium where the national anthem was performed in his honour.
He then received gun salutes from personnel of the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force before entering an official vehicle accompanied by Governor Soludo to proceed with the day’s engagements.
The highlight of the president’s visit is the commissioning of a series of major infrastructural projects completed by the Soludo-led administration.
These include the newly constructed Anambra State Government House, the new Governor’s Lodge—which marks the first of its kind in 34 years—Solution Fun City, and the remodeled Anambra State House of Assembly complex.
These projects have been described by state officials as transformative milestones aimed at redefining governance and urban renewal in Anambra.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, the President’s visit is non-partisan and focused on strengthening federal-state collaboration for development.
He cautioned political party members not to wear party-branded uniforms at the venues of the events, emphasizing the inclusive and official nature of the visit.
In continuation of the day’s itinerary, President Tinubu is also expected to engage with key stakeholders across the state in a high-level town hall meeting at the newly refurbished Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka. The meeting is expected to foster dialogue on federal-state cooperation, youth empowerment, and economic revitalization in the South-East region.
Ahead of the President’s arrival, Awka, the state capital, wore a refreshed look with roads beautified, streets cleared, and public institutions adorned in national colours. Security was visibly intensified across key areas of the state to ensure the safety of the dignitaries and citizens participating in the events.
Tinubu’s visit to Anambra has been hailed by many as a significant political and symbolic moment, given the region’s historical stance in national politics. Observers believe the president’s decision to wear traditional Igbo attire and immerse himself in the culture of the people could be seen as an effort to bridge divides and promote national unity.
More updates on the president’s visit and key outcomes from the engagements are expected in the coming hours.