Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has stated that Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful development through ethnic or religious divisions, but rather through the values, competence, and capacities citizens bring to governance and nation-building.
Soludo made the remark on Sunday, during an interdenominational thanksgiving service marking the completion of his first term in office.
The event was held at the International Conference Centre, Awka, Anambra State.
According to the governor, sustainable national and state development requires that citizens be evaluated on merit rather than on religion, ethnicity, or geographical origin.
“We cannot develop this nation or Anambra State by seeing one another through the lens of how we worship, but by the values we bring to the state and the country,” he said.
The governor emphasized that merit, competence, and capacity to deliver have been the guiding principles of his administration’s appointments and recruitment policies.
“In my administration, what matters is the capacity to deliver and the willingness to work, irrespective of your denomination, state of origin, or tribe. You can see that we have an Accountant General from Abia State and countless appointees who are not from Anambra State,” he stated.
Soludo further explained that the recent recruitment of over 1,800 teachers and medical personnel across the state was conducted strictly on merit.
“The employment of more than 1,800 teachers and medical personnel was done based on the value each individual can bring to governance and public service in Anambra State, not where they come from or their religious affiliation,” he added.
Highlighting his administration’s commitment to religious harmony, the governor noted that he has also engaged with various faith communities across the state.
Soludo stated that his government strongly believes in the spirit of ecumenism, the unity and cooperation among Christian denominations, adding that he has consistently promoted religious inclusivity.
“Today’s interdenominational service brings together the Catholic, Anglican, and Pentecostal communities. I had earlier hosted the Pentecostal community at the Government House.” Soludo said.
The governor noted that the gathering symbolized unity and shared purpose among the various Christian denominations in the state.
“This forms a focal point of my administration. As the interdenominational service was going on, I was deeply moved by the assemblage and the interdenominational choir before us,” the governor said.
Soludo also reflected on the spiritual motivation behind his entry into politics. According to him, before seeking the support of the people of Anambra State, he prayed to God for wisdom to do what is right regardless of how his decisions might be perceived.
He expressed gratitude to God for divine mercy and grace over the past four years and prayed for greater guidance as he begins his second term in office.
In his sermon, Archbishop Alex Ibezim of the Awka Diocese of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) said Soludo’s prayer for wisdom reflects the biblical example of King Solomon, who asked God for wisdom and understanding to govern the people of Israel.
“What King Solomon asked God for was wisdom and understanding to serve the people of God. The theme of this service is ‘Living with Wisdom and Integrity,’” he stated.
He added that the governor’s prayer mirrors that same biblical request for divine guidance.
“What the governor is essentially saying is: ‘God, give me wisdom and knowledge to serve your people.’ That is why we are all gathered here today,” he said.
The archbishop further noted that wisdom in leadership naturally produces integrity and responsible governance.
“We give thanks to God who rules the affairs of men and leaders. With wisdom as a leader, integrity follows. These have been guiding principles of Governor Charles Soludo’s administration over the last four years,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Archbishop David Onuorah, who represented the Primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, Henry Ndukuba, congratulated Soludo and his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, as they commenced their second term in office.
He commended the achievements of the administration over the past four years, describing them as evidence of divine grace and providence.
“The Anglican Communion rejoices with Governor Charles Soludo and his deputy as they begin their second term. The past four years of this administration reflect not only commitment but also the grace of God upon their leadership.”
Similarly, the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, described Anambra State as one of Nigeria’s most remarkable states, known for producing individuals of integrity and outstanding achievers.
He said the Thanksgiving service symbolizes the beginning of greater progress for the state.
“This Thanksgiving service marks the foundation for greater things to come in Anambra State.”
He urged the governor to remain steadfast in faith and continue to rely on God in the governance of the state.
