Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has disclosed that the federal government might not compensate the state for the funds used in building a section of federal road within the state.
The governor made this announcement on Wednesday during a statewide address to mark the 34th anniversary of the state’s establishment.
While speaking at the Light House in Awka, Soludo mentioned that he is not worried about the federal government’s stance, emphasizing that the key focus is the infrastructure that benefits the residents of the state.
He further stated that his administration is working towards the future of Anambra, envisioning what the state will look like in the next 100 to 200 years, when it is projected to accommodate around 35 million people.
He remarked: “Regarding the reimbursement for the construction of the Amawbia-Nise-Agulu-Ekwulobia-Uga federal road, which was inquired about, the federal government has indicated they will not refund for this road.
“This road should have been completed 60 years ago, but it wasn’t, and now is the ideal time to undertake this project. Our forecast is that by 2070, we will have approximately 35 million people in this small area known as Anambra, leading to significant development and potential congestion.
“Our strategy is to dualize most of the roads in Anambra, as we are deliberate about our goals. If we wait until then, the area will be fully developed, making movement difficult. Therefore, whether or not we receive reimbursement, the crucial aspect is that it is the people of Anambra who will use the road.
“Our planning horizon extends 100 to 200 years into the future. We are purposeful in our planning because we recognize that we have the smallest land area in the country, second only to Lagos State.”
Soludo expressed his satisfaction with the continuous progress of Anambra State through various administrations, noting that the state has consistently advanced over the years. In these 34 years of our existence, Anambra has been on a path of development. From