Gladness Gideon
Awka, the Anambra State capital, witnessed heightened security on Thursday as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived to commission several major infrastructural projects in the state.
Security was visibly reinforced across strategic locations in the city, with roads partially closed and personnel deployed from multiple agencies. Officers of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and local vigilante operatives collaborated to ensure a smooth and secure visit.
Anambra State Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that security operatives were on high alert, noting that adequate measures had been put in place to maintain order throughout the president’s stay.
President Tinubu’s itinerary included the inauguration of several high-profile projects executed under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. Among the completed projects are the Solution FunCity, the Anambra Country Club, the newly constructed Government House, Government Lodge, and Presidential Lodge.
He also unveiled the Emeka Anyaoku Centre for Leadership, Diplomacy and Development at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and the towering ‘Iconic Light of the Nation Tower’—a signature monument designed and built by Dutum Construction Ltd to represent Anambra’s identity and aspirations.
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Vehicular movement in parts of Awka was redirected as traffic authorities implemented alternative routes to manage congestion around project sites and key entry points.
Reactions from residents were largely positive, with many describing the visit as a milestone for the state’s visibility and growth.
“It’s commendable that the president is finally recognising developments in the South-East,” said Kennedy Ikenna, a local entrepreneur. “It gives us hope that more federal attention is coming our way.”
Kate Esione, a civil servant, expressed cautious optimism: “We are glad to see these projects being unveiled, but we also expect the president to address the broader concerns affecting people in the South-East.”
President Tinubu’s trip to Anambra is part of a regional tour aimed at boosting socio-economic development and showcasing investments in infrastructure across the South-East.