Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has officially renamed the Anambra International Airport in honor of the late literary legend, Prof. Chinua Achebe.
Governor Soludo made this announcement during the Independence Day celebration held at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital. He revealed that the airport would now bear the name “Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri.”
Additionally, the governor emphasized that his administration was making significant efforts to expedite the state’s development and navigate its challenges successfully. He expressed confidence that Anambra would overcome the difficulties it currently faces.
Governor Soludo also observed that it was heartening to see that many of those who contributed to Nigeria’s independence in 1960 had various projects named after them. However, he highlighted that most of these projects were dedicated to public officeholders. In a departure from this tradition, his government chose to honor Achebe by renaming the Anambra airport after the renowned literary figure.
He said, “We must say that you don’t have to hold a political position to contribute to the advancement of our civilisation.
“Henceforth, we shall be deliberate in fishing out and celebrating our largely unsung heroes, as a motivation to our children and youths in terms of what matters, including distinguished teachers, medical and other professionals, persons of honesty and integrity, philanthropists with known sources of wealth, entrepreneurs/job creators, community leaders/developers, clergy with great devotion, etc.
“An example of Africa’s unsung hero is the late Prof. Chinua Achebe. Achebe was not a president or a governor or minister. He did not build bridges or roads or airports. But he will outlive most presidents, governors or ministers.
“Achebe gave the African literature an identity and a voice. In a way, he rightly reconstructed and redefined who we are and we will never forget. Indeed, he was not an Anambra hero, nor a Nigerian hero. He was an African and global hero, and yet largely unsung at home.
“Consequently, we will rename the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri, to Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri. Yes, it has to be an international airport, and we hope to work with the Federal Government to give full effect to its international status.”
