Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has declared a state of emergency on the environment, citing the growing threat of erosion, flooding and land degradation across the state.
Soludo made the declaration during a statewide broadcast in Awka on Wednesday as Anambra marked its 35th anniversary.
The governor also announced a renewed “Clean and Green Initiative” aimed at encouraging residents to take greater responsibility for protecting the environment.
Soludo congratulated the people of Anambra on the anniversary but said the occasion was also an opportunity to consider the kind of state they wanted to leave for future generations.
According to him, although his administration has made progress in tackling insecurity, environmental degradation remains “Anambra’s number one existential threat.”
He said the increasing cases of gully erosion, flooding and the destruction of farmlands and homes could no longer be treated as separate environmental problems.
The governor called for more trees to be planted, waterways to be protected and drainage channels to be kept free of refuse.
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.”
Soludo added, “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.”
He stressed that the government alone could not address the environmental challenges facing the state.
The governor therefore urged residents to plant trees, stop indiscriminate dumping of refuse, protect drainage channels and keep their surroundings clean.
“Let us choose green. Let us choose the future,” Soludo said.
The governor also reflected on Anambra’s development since its creation 35 years ago, saying the state had made progress but still required the collective efforts of the government and residents to achieve more.
He said his administration’s goal was to build an Anambra where people could live safely, businesses could thrive and future generations could enjoy a healthier environment.
Soludo’s wife, Nonye Soludo, also congratulated residents on the anniversary, describing the state’s 35-year journey as one marked by resilience, enterprise and courage.
She praised Anambra residents at home and abroad for their contributions to the development and reputation of the state.
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.”
Nonye Soludo said the strength of Anambra had always been reflected in its communities and the determination of its people to succeed despite challenges.
She added that the state must continue working towards a future where children could pursue their dreams, families could prosper and communities could look forward to better days.
“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!” she added.
