Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has announced that his government allocates more than N1 billion each month to support mission schools across the state.
Soludo revealed this during Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Faith in Awka, which saw a large turnout of celebrants.
“This funding enables the church to moderate fees in their schools. Additionally, we are working to provide 77 communities in Anambra, which currently lack public schools, with educational access. Our aim is to offer educational opportunities similar to those available in the 1970s,” Soludo said.
The governor also underscored the importance of the Independence Day Service, or Interdenominational Church Service, which serves as an annual gathering for Nigerians of different faiths to pray for the nation.
Joined by his deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Chief Judge Justice Onochie Anyachebelu, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Chief of Staff Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, and other members of the State Executive Council, Soludo thanked the organizers and highlighted the importance of continued prayers for Nigeria and its leaders. “Today’s service reminds us that we are Nigerians first, with a collective responsibility to build a strong and prosperous nation. We must continue to pray for our leaders and the country,” he noted.
He described the day as a moment of Thanksgiving, celebrating Nigeria’s sovereignty, and emphasized, “I appreciate your message; it was well received. We are reminded of a glorious past before crude oil came. The future of Nigeria is in our hands. I carry a message of collective responsibility, as we often see the past as more glorious than our present.” Quoting the late musician Sunny Okosun, he urged the congregation, “Let’s save Nigeria, so Nigeria won’t die.”
Soludo stressed the need for proactive action rather than complaints, stating, “Living in an underdeveloped country demands multitasking—whether through farming or other ventures.”
He also called on the clergy to use their influence to motivate collective action among the populace. “As we mark this 64th anniversary, we must remember that, as representatives of government on Earth, we all have a duty to serve,” he asserted.
The governor went on to highlight recent achievements by his administration, reaffirming his commitment to improving the lives of Anambra residents. He recently announced free education for senior secondary students in public schools and the commencement of minimum wage payments in October.
“Last Thursday, we confirmed at the Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Centre that minimum wage payments will begin in October. We have also extended free, quality education to senior secondary students in public schools,” Soludo said. “For too long, the poor have been neglected by the government. We are ensuring that no one is left behind, including continuing subsidies for mission schools.”
Earlier, Archbishop Alexander Ibezim of the Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Awka Diocese reflected on the significance of Nigeria’s Independence, urging Nigerians to reject hatred, nepotism, and tribalism, and emphasizing the need for unity and love.
