By 
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has named the road leading to the Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri, after his predecessor, Willie Obiano.
Soludo, who announced this during the commissioning of the road on Monday, said the road named “Willie Obiano Boulevard” was in honour of the former governor and recognition of legacy.
While addressing the gathering, the governor described the event as a “unique commissioning”, considering the calibre of people present.
Soludo lauded the former governor’s efforts during his tenure, particularly in initiating the airport project and constructing the International Convention Centre in Awka.
He compared the naming of the road to that of the “Bill Clinton Drive” leading to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, describing it as a fitting tribute to a man who dared to dream and deliver.
He said, “Today, we celebrate one of our own—Chief Willie Obiano. He did his best. The airport, the ICC, and many other legacies. We must appreciate him and send a message—not only to him, but to all past governors of Anambra State. They must be appreciated and immortalised.
“This gesture is more than symbolic, and it is a message of unity, continuity and respect for those who contributed to Anambra’s development.
“I don’t really need to be thanked because I am doing what I applied to do. Doing what has not been done and improving what has already been done.
“The philosophy remains—one state, one people, one agenda. No one should be left behind. To me, the state is one constituency. Therefore, everyone and every area must be carried along.”
The governor further pointed out the inclusive developmental model of his administration, recalling his visits and interventions in neglected regions of the state, particularly the northern axis.
“We must recognise that the North has the largest land mass but lacks heavily in infrastructure; that is the reason I started work there, especially in Okpoko.”
The commissioning, held at the gateway to the Chinua Achebe International Airport, attracted a large gathering of dignitaries, including members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, House of Assembly members, community leaders, and political stakeholders from across Anambra State.
Stakeholders from Oyi and Anambra East—including traditional rulers, legislators, and the local government chairman—showered praises on Soludo for his inclusive governance style and for recognising the contributions of his predecessor.
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