During his 2023 presidential campaign, President Bola Tinubu made a promise to work closely with Anambra’s Governor, Chukwuma Soludo. He praised Soludo as an intelligent leader who “knows the way” to success. Now, as Nigeria’s president, Tinubu is keeping that promise by showing real support for Anambra and the South-East.
A significant development is the Anambra Mixed Use Industrial City (AMIC), which recently completed its application to become a free trade zone. Tinubu had promised to support this process, and with this new designation, AMIC is set to become a manufacturing hub for Nigeria and Africa. As a free trade zone, AMIC will benefit from tax exemptions, reduced red tape, and simplified customs, which will attract more businesses and investment to the region.
Currently, the South-East only has one free trade zone, located in Enugu, but with Governor Soludo’s plans and President Tinubu’s backing, we can expect more zones to be established in the future.
In addition to industrial growth, President Tinubu is also focused on improving infrastructure in the South-East. A major project is the Eastern Rail line, which will connect Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, passing through the South-East. The $3.2 billion project has faced funding delays, but President Tinubu’s experience and leadership are expected to help resolve these issues and ensure the rail line is completed.
Moreover, the President is committed to expanding Nigeria’s gas infrastructure, with plans to extend pipelines to the South-East. This will provide better access to gas, supporting the region’s energy needs and fueling economic growth.
On the national level, President Tinubu’s efforts have helped stabilize Nigeria’s economy. The naira has become more stable against the dollar, and non-oil exports have increased by over 20%. These economic improvements are creating a foundation for future growth, and foreign investors are starting to return to Nigeria.
Despite challenges, President Tinubu’s leadership is making a difference. With ongoing projects in Anambra and the South-East, the region is poised for a bright future filled with opportunity and growth.
