Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming Nnewi into a modern economic powerhouse, unveiling plans to unlock the city’s vast but under-utilized assets through strategic urban renewal and infrastructure development.
The governor made this known on Wednesday, during an inspection tour of key locations across Nnewi, aimed at identifying critical infrastructure gaps, reviving dormant public assets, and accelerating the city’s economic growth.
The tour took Soludo to several strategic sites, including the Nkwo Nnewi Triangle, where he inspected a shopping complex that has remained abandoned and uncompleted for nearly 17 years.
Expressing concern over the prolonged neglect of the facility, the governor described the situation as unacceptable, stressing that public infrastructure meant to stimulate commerce and economic activities must be put to productive use.
“It is unacceptable that public assets intended to drive commerce have been left to rot for nearly two decades,” Soludo said.
“We are here to draw a line in the sand. This facility will no longer be a monument to neglect. We are moving swiftly to restore it to productive use for the benefit of the people of Nnewi.”
The governor also inspected the Post Office area and the High Court premises, where he outlined plans to integrate the sites into a comprehensive urban development framework designed to improve accessibility, enhance public service delivery and strengthen the city’s commercial appeal.
As part of the broader development agenda, Soludo assessed potential locations for new housing projects, noting that quality residential infrastructure is vital to supporting Nnewi’s growing workforce and sustaining its position as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial and commercial centers.
He further disclosed that the state government is identifying and mapping underutilized public spaces across the city for redevelopment into parks, recreational facilities, and commercial ventures capable of stimulating economic activities and improving the quality of life for residents.
“Our strategy is simple: we are unlocking the hidden value of Nnewi,” the governor stated.
“By converting dormant open spaces into vibrant public parks and productive facilities, we are not just fixing buildings; we are stimulating local commerce and reclaiming Nnewi’s rightful place as the premier industrial nerve center of the region.”
Soludo assured residents that redevelopment works and other transformative projects arising from the inspection exercise would commence in the coming weeks.
