The Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has advised indigenes based in Lagos to redirect investments towards the state to foster sustainable development and prosperity.
The governor made the appeal yesterday at the launch of the Homeland Consciousness Initiative in Lagos, which brought together Anambra indigenes resident in Lagos.
While enumerating the progress made so far by his administration in the area of security; infrastructure and economic transformation; human capital and Social agenda; governance and value system and sustainable environment among others, the governor enjoined the gathering to reflect deeply on the state’s achievements so far and do everything possible to contribute their quota in form of investments and taxes to the growth of the state.
Soludo said his administration is deliberate about development and wished to change Anambra from a departure land to a destination point, noting that the state has prepared enough ground for anyone to invest.
“Anambra is a preferred place to learn, work, relax and enjoy, which has led to developments in various sectors of the state to boost infrastructure and the economy.
We must not continue to invest only in other people’s homelands at the expense of ours.
“We need to channel our resources and investments to our homeland to replicate some of our business ideas in other places.”
He pointed out that they could invest in electricity, industrial parks, real estate, logistics,health, education, agric, among others.
“Anambra is on the rise and the world is noticing, therefore I implore you to come home and invest. Homeland consciousness is tied to us to develop our own land.
You are a refugee in another man’s land. Invest in your homeland.
Anambra is getting stronger as days go by.”
The governor urged the business owners to pay their taxes at home so the administration can fix security and others.
“How much have you contributed by way of taxes to the state.
“You can contribute to the success of the state through your town unions.
“Let’s do it together , let’s rise up. Give what you can.”
On his part, Leo Chiegboka, Senior Special Assistant/ Liaison Officer, Anambra State Liaison Office, emphasized the need to exercise caution and be proactive to safeguarding their business interests.
“It has become imperative that we begin the balancing act by redirecting some of our investments to our homeland to engender further developments, poverty reduction, and greater prosperity in our various localities.
We need to build business hubs and create boom towns in our homeland and stimulate the influx of foreign capitals.”
Chiegboka called for unity as a united people are powerful people who can achieve whatsoever they set out to achieve and reach for the sky even in the face of daunting challenges..
He pleaded with Anambra indigenes to contribute to the growth of the state and eschew unnecessary, malicious criticisms.
He pleaded for collaboration to build a greater and distinguished Anambra State that will be a reference point.
On the area of boosting the revenue of the state, he appealed to them to determine to give monthly financial support to a dedicated account to boost the revenue of the state, engage in philanthropy, undertake community projects and support local initiatives.
The SSA noted that under the leadership of Soludo, “our solution government perseveres in addressing the challenges we face daily. However, the government finite resources cannot singularly resolve all current issues.”
He therefore appealed that each individuals wields the authority to shape Anambra destiny through painless personal contributions and fulfilling civil duties, ‘Aku Luo Uno’ must guide our actions , spotlighting the prioritisation of states advancement.”