{BY PETER NWASIIKE, Onitsah}
The Anglican Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Alexander Ibezim, praised Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his commitment to God’s presence during his second term, highlighted by an Inter-Denominational Church Service at the International Conference Center (ICC) in Awka on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
While delivering the sermon for the event, Archbishop Ibezim lauded Governor Soludo for his devotion, likening him to the biblical King Solomon, who gathered the Israelites at Gibeon to connect with God through offerings. In a dream that night, God offered Solomon a request, to which he asked for “WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE” to lead God’s people. God granted Solomon’s request because he sought wisdom over personal gain, promising him unparalleled greatness (2 Chronicles 1:7-12).
The Archbishop emphasized that great leaders exemplify Wisdom and Integrity, using wisdom to prioritize the welfare of their people rather than their own interests, and demonstrating integrity through honesty, accountability, and transparency. He noted that during Soludo’s first term (2022-2026), these qualities were evident in many successful projects that helped maintain Anambra’s economic strength.
The Prelate assured the Governor that his exemplary governance had earned him a second term (2026-2030) through a fair election, affirming that he possesses the qualities of a good servant, and he would continue to serve his people exceptionally. He prophesied that, just as God was with Solomon, God would also elevate Soludo (2 Chronicles 1:1).
Bishop Wale Oke, the National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), shared his own experiences with Governor Soludo from his time as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria under President Obasanjo (2003-2007). He commended Soludo for his dedicated service, which helped stabilize the banking sector and restore public confidence in financial institutions. He noted that Soludo and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala worked together to resolve Nigeria’s foreign debt issues, showcasing their patriotism and expertise.
Bishop Oke expressed his pleasure at how Soludo has brought this level of service to his role as Governor, resulting in Anambra becoming the fastest-growing economy in Nigeria. He also praised Soludo for fostering unity among different Christian denominations by organizing the church service to seek blessings for himself, his family, and the citizens of Anambra.
In his address, Governor Soludo thanked God for guiding him in his educational and leadership endeavors. He mentioned a holy Convenant he made with God to govern with honesty and ensure progress in Anambra. He highlighted his accomplishments in office without incurring debt and expressed gratitude for his re-election to complete the constitutionally mandated two terms from 2022 to 2030. He promised even greater achievements in his second term and reiterated his vision of transforming Anambra into a livable, prosperous smart megacity, ensuring that opportunities abound for its citizens.
Hon. Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, the Governor’s Personal Adviser on Political Matters, remained optimistic that Soludo’s second term would elevate Anambra to rival the world’s most successful regions, comparable to Israel’s journey towards political and economic independence through nurturing human capital and fostering innovation.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council of Anambra State, Igwe Chidubem Iweka of Obosi, among others.
