Titus Eleweke, South East Editor
AWKA, Anambra – The Anambra State Government has released the official programme of events for the swearing-in of Chukwuma Charles Soludo and his deputy, Onyekachukwu Ibezim, as they prepare to begin their second term in office.
According to an official statement issued by the state government, the main inauguration ceremony will take place on March 17 at 10:00 a.m. at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital.
The ceremony is expected to attract political leaders, traditional rulers, business stakeholders, and members of the diplomatic community.
The event is themed “Anambra on the Rise: The Foundation Towards the African Dubai–Taiwan,” a slogan that reflects the administration’s ambition to position the state as a competitive economic hub driven by industrialisation, technology, and infrastructural renewal. While the “Dubai–Taiwan” comparison signals a vision anchored on rapid urban development and export-led growth, analysts note that translating this aspiration into measurable socio-economic gains will depend on sustained reforms in security, regulatory efficiency, and human capital development.
As part of the inauguration activities, an interdenominational church service will be held on March 15 at 11:00 a.m. at the International Convention Centre.
A thanksgiving Mass is also scheduled for March 22 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, underscoring the administration’s continued engagement with faith-based institutions, which remain influential in the state’s civic life.
Governor Soludo, who recently secured re-election, is expected to take the oath of office for a second four-year term in accordance with constitutional provisions.
His renewed mandate suggests voter endorsement of his first-term agenda, which prioritised infrastructure expansion, fiscal reforms, digital governance, and security interventions.
However, his second term is likely to face heightened public expectations, particularly in the areas of job creation, youth empowerment, and improved ease of doing business.
The swearing-in ceremony marks a pivotal moment in Anambra State’s political calendar.
Beyond its ceremonial significance, it represents a continuity of leadership at a time when subnational governments are under increasing pressure to deliver tangible development outcomes.
The administration has reiterated its commitment to strengthening internal revenue generation, enhancing public safety, expanding road networks, and fostering an investor-friendly climate aimed at positioning Anambra as a leading model of sustainable growth in southeastern Nigeria and beyond.
