11/05/2025
What Anambra Truly Needs: A Thought on Soludo’s Comment About Peter Obi
A few days ago, I watched a video of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo making a statement that left me a bit unsettled. He mentioned that the last time a president visited Anambra was in 2012, during Mr. Peter Obi 's tenure, to commission a beer factory—International Breweries Limited, formerly SABMiller. He then suggested that the visit didn’t mean much to the state because it was just about a privately-owned brewery. According to him, what’s worth celebrating is President Tinubu’s visit to commission the newly completed Government House—something he believes truly matters.
Normally, I wouldn’t have said anything. But seeing how many people are buying into that narrative, I felt the need to speak up—not to attack, but to reflect.
Yes, the new Government House is beautiful. It’s modern, clean, and possibly one of the best in Nigeria. But let’s be honest with ourselves—is that what Anambra needs the most right now?
Let’s go back to 2012. That brewery Peter Obi brought into the state isn’t just a beer company. Today, it’s the biggest revenue generators for Anambra State. It’s the highest taxpayer. It’s one of the largest employers of labour in the state. That single investment has put food on countless tables and given dignity to many families. Yet, we are being told it wasn’t significant?
Some will argue that a new Government House gives the state pride, something we can take pictures of and show off. And yes, there’s a place for beauty and legacy. But there’s also something deeply concerning about building monuments while the people still struggle with basic needs.
Let me be clear: this isn’t about comparing Soludo and Peter Obi. But if we must reflect on leadership, then we should also look at the priorities. Peter Obi didn’t build to be remembered—he focused on what his people needed in the moment. He didn’t chase “signature projects.” He quietly fixed roads, remodeled schools and hospitals, equipped them properly, and paid attention to what actually made life better for people.
Sometimes we shout “we need jobs!” but then fail to appreciate the leaders who create environments that bring investments like International Breweries. That’s how governments really create jobs—not by giving out handouts or bloated political appointments, but by opening doors for businesses that will outlast their administrations.
So no, I’m not here to condemn the new Government House. But I believe it’s time we, the people, ask ourselves: Do we want flashy buildings or real opportunities? Do we want to impress visitors or empower citizens?
At the end of the day, a father feeding his children because he works at a factory built under Peter Obi’s government will not care what the Government House looks like. But he’ll always remember the opportunity that put food on his table.
Let’s never forget what truly matters.
