FG Refuses to Refund Anambra for Federal Road Project – Soludo

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has disclosed that the Federal Government will not refund funds spent by Anambra State on the reconstruction of the Amawbia–Nise–Agulu–Ekwulobia–Uga federal road.

The governor made this known on Wednesday during a statewide broadcast to mark the 34th anniversary of Anambra State’s creation, held at the Light House, Awka.

Soludo, however, said he is not discouraged by the development, stressing that what matters most is that Ndi Anambra now enjoy improved road infrastructure.

“That road should have been done 60 years ago, but it wasn’t. This is the best time to do it. Whether the Federal Government refunds us or not, the important thing is that it is our people who will use the road,” he stated.

The governor explained that his administration is planning with long-term population growth in mind. By 2070, he projected, Anambra could be home to about 35 million people. To prepare for this, his government is prioritizing the dualization of major roads and other infrastructure, with a vision spanning 100 to 200 years.

Soludo also highlighted the steady progress of Anambra across successive administrations, noting that the state has consistently moved forward since its creation. He listed past leaders, from Chukwuemeka Ezeife to his immediate predecessor Willie Obiano, as contributors to this trajectory.

On his government’s development philosophy, the governor emphasized investment over short-term handouts. He described his “stomach infrastructure” model as one focused on creating opportunities and putting money back into people’s pockets through policies like free education and free antenatal care.

“We are not running a government that doles out money to a few people. Our model is broader, sustainable, and centered on value creation,” Soludo said.

According to him, this approach ensures limited resources are invested in long-term development that benefits millions, rather than being shared as cash handouts to a few.