Anambra Election: Why Soludo Is Coasting To Victory
CHIKE MABENE
There is no gainsaying that the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo is coasting to victory ahead of November 8, 2025 gubernatorial election. As the incumbent seeking re-election, Soludo knows that “victory belongs to the most persevering,” and has therefore left no room for disruption of his unasailable lead no thanks to lack of alternative narrative by the opposition.
Whereas mudslinging suffused the campaign trail in the last few two weeks and seemingly revived the hapless opposition, it is noteworthy that over the years, Anambra has built a strong third force culture with APGA consistently producing governors. Some have ascribed this dorminance to strong ideology and party loyalty but that’s hardly the whole story. The fact is that the state’s electorate value individual competence over and above party loyalty. The APGA apparachik understands this hence does not toy with competence and character when choosing her candidates who in the same token, must meet the unwritten zoning criteria in Anambra as well as the expectations of critical stakeholders. Apart from these considerations, delivering ‘democracy dividends’ to the delight of the people counts for performance in office, and thus far, Governor Soludo is adjudged to be meeting the expectations of Anambra electorate. Little wonder he neither feels nor acts worried while riding the wave of over-whelming endorsement by Ndi Anambra.
A cusory look at the Governor’s score-card reveals strong showing with strategic governance rooted in transformative leadership, which is reshaping Anambra’s infrastructural and political landscape. His perseverance, visionary approach, and ability to deliver tangible results gives him significant edge over his opponents.
Secondly, Soludo’s transformative vision and strategic planning has been guided by a long-term vision encapsulated in the “African Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley” project. This ambitious plan integrates infrastructure development, urban renewal, and economic transformation, ensuring that every project aligns with sustainable growth for the state. His strategic retreats, like the 2025 “Changing Gears” session, emphasized accountability, teamwork, and execution, solidifying his administration’s focus on delivering measurable results.
There is ample evidence that Soludo is demonstrating commendable fiscal discipline and resource management by avoiding unnecessary borrowing while delivering large-scale projects. Under his leadership, Anambra was ranked among the top five states in fiscal sustainability by BudgIT, a testament to his pragmatic financial management. His “Soludo Solution” approach emphasizes judicious deployment of state resources, transparency, and zero tolerance for corruption.
In infrastructure development, Anambra has become a massive construction site with over 754 kilometers awarded and 470 kilometers completed. People of Okpoko attest to new lease of life as a result of the Governor’s urban renewal projects, likewise Ekwulobia and axis, with cities like Onitsha gradually getting necessary attention. Additionally, the administration is tackling long-standing erosion issues and has implemented renewable energy initiatives such as converting over 26,000 diesel-powered streetlights to solar energy.
Human capital development features prominently in Soludo’s priorities with heavy investment in education and healthcare. From introducing free, qualitative education that increased school enrollment to recruiting thousands of teachers, his administration has prioritized human capital. In healthcare, he is building world-class general hospitals in each local government area, offering free antenatal and delivery services, and renovating primary healthcare centers.
Security of lives and property is a major concern for Ndi Anambra and Soludo’s innovative “Agunechemba” security architecture and the enactment of the “Homeland Security Law” have significantly improved safety across the state. His administration has dismantled criminal camps and restored peace, making Anambra safer for residents and investors. Additionally, his governance is anchored on unity and inclusiveness, under the mantra “One State, One People, One Agenda.”
Soludo’s achievements have earned him national accolades, including The Sun Newspaper’s “Governor of the Year 2024” award. These recognitions reflect his credibility and wide public acceptance, positioning him as a trusted leader with a proven track record.
It is heartening to note that Soludo’s perseverance in tackling challenges, coupled with his innovative governance style and tangible results, has endeared him to ndi Anambra. Yet, the discerning advise that he should avoid public spat with opponents who have offered nothing tangible as alternatives, that way, they insist he would have minimal exertion enroute victory in November. All told, as long as Soludo keeps his administration’s focus on equity, sustainability, and progress it places him far ahead of his opponents, making him a formidable candidate for re-election.
*Mabene, is a public Affairs Analyst.*
