Anambra State Commissioner for Housing Hon. Pauly Onyeka, has charged contractors engaged for the upgrading of Dr Alex Ekwueme Event Centre to turn the place into a centre of attraction comparable to any other one around the world.
The Commissioner, who gave the charge during the official handover of the project site to the contractors, explained that the goal of the government is to transform the old event centre into a decent, world-class facility, in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s desire to make Anambra a livable and progressive state.
The outdoor event centre, named after a one-time Nigeria Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme, has become a shame of the state, especially with the level of abandonment of projects commenced by the former state administration.
One of such projects abandoned was the swimming pool hurriedly built by the administration of former governor, Chief Willie Obiano, for the 2020 Police Games, held in the state.
Workers at the nearby State Judiciary headquarters, the Federal High Court and the State House of Assembly had complained of the increased ravage of mosquitoes, allegedly breeding at the abandoned swimming pool, which had stagnant water.
Hon. Onyeka, who led other senior staff of the ministry during the handover ceremony, charged the contractors not to undermine the good intentions of the government on the project.
Onyeka said, “We will not accept excuses. What we need here is an event centre of global standards.
“Mr Governor is poised to ensure that our people get value for every kobo being spent by the government.
“I want you to work with this in mind. Give us the best that can be showcased anywhere around the world”.
The Commissioner directed other contractors to promptly execute the job in accordance with specifications to be able to meet the deadline set by the government.
The Managing Director of the Lead Company, Pizim Engineering Limited, Engr Ugochukwu Nnigbo, who spoke on behalf of other contractors, assured the state government of quality work and timely delivery.
“We are aware that the Soludo-led government does not compromise standards and we promise to do our best to deliver a quality work the government will be proud of,” he pledged.
The occasion afforded the government team, led by the Commissioner for Housing, the opportunity to brainstorm with the contractors on the technical and architectural designs for the project.
The edifice, when completed, will have an executive pavilion, VIP lounge, recreational and relaxation facilities as well as parking space among other facilities.
