Anambra to launch homeland consciousness initiative

By Merit Ibe

All is set for the activation of Anambra State Homeland Consciousness programme on March 2, to sensitise indigenes and investors on the need to invest at home.

The event, billed to take place at the Villa Park Hotels & Suites, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, is championed by the Government of Anambra State.

Throwing more light on the program  in a press briefing, Senior Special Adviser  to Governor of Anambra State  and Liaison Officer, Anambra State Liaison Office, Lagos, Leo Chiegboka, said the event will be a time  for insightful conversations that will shape the future of “our homeland and reinforce our shared identity, commitment and responsibility as Ndi Anambra, both at home and in the diaspora.”

Chiegboka noted that the Anambra Homeland Consciousness initiative seeks to strengthen the bond between Anambra people, harness their  collective resources and create pathways for sustainable development in the state.

He disclosed that  the event, will feature  discussions that will address critical aspects of the state’s progress, economic empowerment, investment opportunities, infrastructural development and our role as stakeholders in the Anambra project, adding that through meaningful dialogue, collaboration and strategic planning,  new possibilities can be unlocked that will drive the state forward especially in this tech driven era of AI.

He urged every son and daughter of Anambra, particularly those in Lagos and beyond to be in  attendance as everyone’s  voice, ideas and contributions matter.

“Together, we can create lasting impact and ensure that Arambra  remains a beacon of excellence in Nigeria and beyond.”

The SSA further said on the love of Anambra people, homeland is not just a place- “it is our heritage, our pride and the foundation upon which we must build a prosperous future.”

He pointed out that Ndigbo is a blessed and distinguished people with wisdom, uncommon dynamism and ingenuity.

“ We have the capacity and tenacity to withstand and overcome daunting challenges.

We are also like the Cedar tree, the king of trees that blossoms. We are notably enterprising and prosperous.

Ndigbo are noted to be catalytic, with an uncommon capacity to generate wealth and we give all the glory to God.”

However, he said   there seems to be a notable anomaly in “our nature and business operations which we need to examine for reorientation, enhanced image and greater benefits.”

Pointing out that the Igbo have been stereotyped as a people who develop other people’s homelands at the expense of their own, he advised that as charity, they say, begins at home, therefore, it has become imperative for Anambra people to introspect and reevaluate that tendency in view of present political reality, for greater good.

“We need to exercise caution and be proactive to safeguard our 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.

He therefore emphasized the need to think home, be homeland conscious and invest at home “Aku Luo Uno.”

“We must not continue to invest only in other people’s homelands at the expense of ours.”