Kashim Shettima, Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and several other dignitaries gather in Anambra as Charles Soludo is sworn in for a second term in office

Nigeria's Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, was among the dignitaries who attended the swearing-in ceremony of Governor Chukwuma Soludo as he commenced his second term in office, alongside two former Presidents, Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, and former Governor Chris Ngige.

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Deputy Governors from five states and other notable figures, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Igunwusi, and Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, also graced the well-attended event at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka.

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During his speech, Soludo reflected on his first four years in office, highlighting his administration's focus on restoring security, law and order, addressing waste management and urban regeneration, and rebuilding public schools and hospitals.

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He also underscored his government's achievements, including breaking a 34-year-old jinx by building a befitting government house and lodge, digitizing government processes, and mainstreaming transparency and value-for-money governance.

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Soludo announced that his administration would consolidate ongoing transformations across all sectors over the next four years, while accelerating actions to secure the state's future and institutionalize change within the "built to last" framework.

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He identified security and electricity as priority areas, emphasizing the need for a physical master plan due to the state's rapid development, and revealed plans to secure strategic land spaces as a land bank for future developments.

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With Anambra's estimated population projected to reach 40 million by 2070 and 50 million by 2100, Soludo noted that the state would require at least three airports, prompting his administration to act swiftly to secure space for future developments.

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He disclosed that his government had planned and invested in four new cities and a district, including New Niger City near Onitsha, Awka 2.0, the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City, an Aerotropolis, and the Innovation District.

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The CPCS of Canada has completed Anambra's rail and gas master plan, according to Soludo, who added that work on the project would commence soon.

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Soludo expressed confidence that by the end of his second term, the foundations for a Livable and Prosperous Smart Mega City would be solid, and reiterated his commitment to delivering on his promises, stating "Solution is Here" is not just a slogan, but a covenant.

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Vice President Kashim Shettima praised Soludo as a courageous leader who has demonstrated his capabilities through his developmental strides, giving the people of Anambra a glimpse of his leadership qualities.

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Shettima noted that Soludo's re-election was a testament to his leadership, and expressed optimism about Anambra's future, stating that the state has every reason to look ahead with hope and happiness.