Anambra assembly has commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for naming the states international and cargo airport after late Prof. Chinua Achebe
ANN reports that Soludo announce the renaming of the Anambra State International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri after Achebe, during the independence day celebration on October 1st 2023 at the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka the state capital.
The chief sponsor of the motion Hon. Kingsley Udemezue in his submission said Achebe who is a true son of Ogidi in Idemili North local government is a known figure not only in Anambra but in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.
Hon. Udemezue who is the member representing Idemili North constituency maintained that many people where lobbing for the airport to be named after them but Soludo in his wisdom chose Achebe.
According to the legislator” With the Immortalizing of Achebe, his name will not be forgotten anytime soon”.
Supporting the motion, Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye, Hon. Jude Umennajiego, Chief Whip Hon. Jude Ngobili, Hon. Patrick Uduoba, Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, Hon. Henry Mbachu, Hon. Golden iloh, Majority Leader Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, Hon. Augustine Ike, Hon. Emma Nwafor, Hon. Chuks Azotani, Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke, Hon. Chidi Ibemeka, Hon. Obi Nweke and Hon. Anthony Muobike hailed Soludo for
immortalizing Achebe.
According to the lawmakers, what the governor did is clearly the recognition of exellence.
“Late Prof. Chinua Achebe is a giant and African’s Shakespeare. A man whose works where classical and was translated in more than sixty languages and is currently tranding in the world.
“Mr. governor has also demostrated that it is not all about money or lobbying but for people to aspire for greatness and exellence. Looking critically, you will notice that Chimamanda is following the footsteps of Prof. Chinua Achebe.
” This immobilization will raise more Chinua Achabe’s in igbo land.
” Chinua Achebe is a man of many parts. He was once the President General of Ogidi (his community). Which shows that he served his people.
” Most of the novels he wrote such as ‘Things Fall Apart”, Arrow of God, There Was A Country’ amongst others are world class. He is a giant in all respect.
“Achebe refused to accept awards from the Federal Government on the grands of principle and because he wants to defend his homeland.
” Chinua Achebe is a figure we all look up too and admire. He is one of those who did not held any government office but still made impact as a private individual.
“This immobilization is an encouragement to individuals to do good because we will be remembered by our works.
“The former governor of Anambra State Chief Willie Obiano also deserve commendation for building the airport.
” Academic excellence will be promoted and
this immobilization will portray Anambra as a state that values education and value people in their field.
“It is important to recognize those that have done well so that other people will be encouraged to work harder.
” Chinua Achebe is a prophet because in his novel, he saw today. It is good to give honor to whom it is duo”.
The Speaker Rt. Hon. Somto Udeze while commending the governor for Immortalizing Achebe said it is important to honor those that served this nation with their heart.
Udeze said Achebe laid the foundation and contributed his quota for a better Nigeria. He also commended Hon. Kingsley Udemezue for moving the motion.
The house adjurned to Thursday October 5th 2023.
