Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has promised to resolve the 21-year power outage at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus, in Ihiala Local Government Area.
Soludo made the commitment during a one-day working visit to the university, according to a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, on Wednesday.
The Governor emphasized that the resolution of the power issue would not only benefit the university but also the surrounding Uli community.
He acknowledged the well-maintained environment of the campus but pointed out that it requires substantial infrastructure development.
The statement read in part: “After 21 years without electricity, the students of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus, will soon enjoy a steady power supply. Uli as a community will also benefit from this intervention. We are working on a plan to restore power to both the campus and the community.”
Soludo reinforced his administration’s focus on education as a key driver for Anambra’s future.
“Education is the foundation of Anambra, and we are committed to investing in human capital that is not only productive at home but also internationally competitive. We are investing in quality education, which is why we are following the PPCP framework,” he stated.
The Governor also promised to improve internet access on the campus by providing Wi-Fi in public spaces, enhancing students’ digital engagement.
“In today’s world, it’s not just about the certificate you hold but what you can do. Digitalisation will provide this campus with a competitive edge,” he assured.
Soludo further announced plans to begin the gradual construction of internal roads within the campus and encouraged the local community to take steps to protect the institution.
Prof. Ngozi Chuma-deh, the Commissioner for Education, expressed her strong support for the Governor, describing him as education-friendly.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Kate Omenugha, thanked Soludo for his visit and support, particularly in securing the institution’s accreditation.
“We are developing our strategic vision, and with the Governor’s support, we aim to transform this campus into a center of excellence. If we drive Uli campus forward, it could become the ‘Japan of Africa.’” Prof. Omenugha added.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ernest Ezeajughi; Chief Protocol Officer, Chinedu Nwoye; Anambra State House of Assembly members from Ihiala, Jude Ngobili and Chukwuebuka Iloh; and the Mayor of Ihiala Local Government Area, Anayo Orjiakor.
