Governor Chukwuma Soludo has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to reposition Nnewi as one of Nigeria’s leading economic and industrial centres, unveiling plans to revitalise abandoned infrastructure and unlock the city’s untapped commercial potential.
The governor made the commitment during an extensive inspection tour of strategic locations across Nnewi, where he assessed key infrastructure projects, abandoned public assets and potential development sites earmarked for future investment.
The tour forms part of the Anambra State Government’s broader urban renewal and economic transformation agenda aimed at accelerating growth and improving the quality of life for residents.
Soludo Targets Long-Abandoned Projects
One of the major stops during the inspection was the Nkwo Nnewi Triangle, where the governor visited a shopping complex that has remained abandoned and unfinished for nearly 17 years.
Expressing concern over the prolonged neglect of the facility, Soludo described the situation as unacceptable, insisting that public assets designed to stimulate economic activities should never be allowed to waste away.
“It is unacceptable that public assets intended to drive commerce have been left to rot for nearly two decades,” the governor said.
“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.”
New Urban Development Vision
The governor also inspected the Post Office area and the High Court premises, where he outlined plans to integrate both locations into a comprehensive urban development framework.
According to Soludo, the initiative is designed to improve accessibility, strengthen public service delivery and make Nnewi more attractive to investors and businesses.
The administration believes modern infrastructure and efficient urban planning are critical to sustaining the city’s position as a major commercial hub.
Housing and Infrastructure Expansion
As part of the wider transformation agenda, Soludo assessed potential sites for new housing developments aimed at supporting Nnewi’s growing population and workforce.
He noted that quality housing remains essential for attracting investment, supporting businesses and improving living standards.
The governor said the state government is committed to developing residential infrastructure capable of matching the city’s economic ambitions.
Soludo revealed that the government is currently identifying and mapping underutilised public spaces across Nnewi for redevelopment.
The plan includes transforming dormant lands into parks, recreational centres, commercial facilities and other projects capable of stimulating economic activities while improving the city’s appearance.
“Our strategy is simple: we are unlocking the hidden value of Nnewi,” Soludo 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 centre of the region.”
Projects to Begin Soon
The governor assured residents that several redevelopment projects resulting from the inspection exercise would commence in the coming weeks.
He stressed that the administration remains focused on delivering infrastructure that drives economic growth, creates jobs and improves public services across Anambra State.
The inspection team included Commissioner for Works, Arch. Okey Ezeobi; Commissioner for Housing, Architect Henry Arinze; Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Clem Aguiyi; and the mayors of Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Local Government Areas.
