By Uzo Ugwunze
The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko, Engr. Dr. Francisca Nwafulugo, has called on sons and daughters of Anambra State, both at home and in the diaspora, as well as other stakeholders, to invest their wealth and resources in line with the think-home philosophy for the building and development of their state.
Nwafulugo, popularly called
'Nne Obioma' by her people and recognized for winning numerous awards for
infrastructural and human capital development, made the call during the 3rd
edition of the Anambra Man Of The Year (AMTY) awards. This annual event
celebrates excellence, industry, courage, achievements, and impacts of Anambra
people in the state and the country at large.
The event, themed
"Gbakotanu Ka Anyi Dozie Obodo Dike (Come Together Let Us Develop The Land
of the Great)," took place in Awka, the state capital, on Friday.
In her keynote address at the
event, Nwafulugo implored the people of the state to actively participate in
its development by investing in critical sectors of the economy. She emphasized
that the growth and development of the state are collective responsibilities,
not limited to the government alone. Therefore, eminent sons and daughters
should contribute to making the state the industrial hub of the country.
According to her, "We have
the human capital and capacity needed to turn Anambra into one big industrial
and economically viable zone comparable to Dubai. Achieving this is not solely
the responsibility of the government, as it lacks the magic wand capable of
achieving an Eldorado. It is necessary to remind ourselves that the growth and
development of a state require a collective effort from both the government and
the citizens."
"We must forge
partnerships—government, private sector, and civil society working hand in
hand. Collaboration is the catalyst for transformative change. By harnessing
the collective strength of our diverse talents and resources, we can overcome
challenges that may seem insurmountable when faced alone."
Nwafulugo stressed the
importance of measures to contribute and make oneself relevant to the
development of Anambra state. One such measure is for Anambra people in
diaspora and those in other parts of the country to repatriate their
investments and wealth intentionally to Anambra. This collective responsibility
is crucial for the growth and development of the state.
"Our people need to start
thinking about home. We can’t afford to develop other places to the detriment
of our home. It is ironic for our people to invest in and develop other places,
leaving out their home, and then complain that home is not developed like other
places. Charity begins at home. Home is home, and no matter where one travels, one
will still come back home."
"Anambra is our collective
patrimony and can only be developed by us, Anambrarians. Political affiliations
shouldn’t be a barrier. We must set aside political differences and join hands
together to lift our state."
"Anambra has what it takes
to be a leading economy in Nigeria. We need to synergize and galvanize manpower
and resources to achieve this. A boisterous economy is key to growth and
development. So we need to strengthen the state's economy."
The Rector, who spoke
extensively on the importance of developing the home economy, emphasized the
need to focus on the development of youth, economic empowerment, and ease of
doing business within the state.
She highlighted the need for
the government to harmonize taxes paid by business operators and provide tax
holidays for emerging businesses. Such moves will not only save businesses from
being stifled but also serve as an incentive for gain and stability.
While commending the state
government on the free education policy, she insisted on embracing the digital
age and leveraging technology to address societal challenges, improve
efficiency, and open new avenues for growth.
She maintained that nurturing a
tech-savvy environment will position the state as a hub of innovation and
attract investments and talents that will propel it into a prosperous future.
She also mentioned the
provision of infrastructural facilities at rural levels, investing in
education, improving security, and building accessible healthcare as key
elements in securing a bright and prosperous future for the state.
Prof. Emeka Ezeonu, a
Harvard-trained Professor of Biochemistry and former Imo State Resident
Electoral Commissioner, who chaired the event, stated that Anambra is known for
setting the pace in Igboland and Nigeria at large. He emphasized the imperative
to join hands to keep moving the state forward.
He also stated that the event
is not just a celebration of great achievers in the state but a rallying cry
for collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence for the state.
Ikengaonline reports that no
fewer than forty-two (42) personalities, brands, and institutions were
conferred with awards for their innovation and impacts in diverse areas, as
well as their contributions to the betterment of society.
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