Valentine Ozigbo asks Ndi Anambra the big question: “What did Gov Soludo do with 487 Billion Naira?”

Valentine Ozigbo asks Ndi Anambra the big question: “What did Gov Soludo do with 487 Billion Naira?” As he analyzes the current state of the economy in Anambra State

Awka, Anambra State – In a thought-provoking edition of his #WakeUpSeries, prominent Anambra citizen Valentine Ozigbo has cast a critical spotlight on the economic landscape of Anambra State, raising pertinent questions about the utilization of state funds and the current administration’s economic policies.

Ozigbo, known for his incisive analysis of socio-economic issues, expressed deep concern over the widening gap between expectations and reality in Anambra’s economic sphere, particularly given the state’s rich history as a thriving hub of commerce and industry. Despite being led by Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, a world-renowned economist, Ozigbo notes that 30 months into the current administration, Anambra’s economic potential remains largely untapped.

The crux of Ozigbo’s analysis revolves around a staggering figure: 487 Billion Naira. This sum, representing the state’s financial resources over the past two and a half years, forms the basis of his pointed inquiry to Ndi Anambra about the tangible impacts of such significant funding.

Ozigbo paints a vivid picture of Anambra’s economic assets, from the sprawling markets of Onitsha to the bustling auto parts industry in Nnewi and the emerging tech scene in Awka. However, he laments that these potential economic powerhouses are struggling under the weight of inadequate infrastructure and what he terms “unfavorable stifling policies.”

Of particular concern to Ozigbo is the plight of small businesses, which he describes as the “lifeblood of Anambra’s economy.” These enterprises, along with larger corporations, are grappling with challenges that have led to reduced productivity and, in some cases, outright closures. This situation, Ozigbo argues, is exacerbating unemployment and increasing hardship for the average Anambra citizen.

The #WakeUpSeries also sheds light on the administration’s approach to tax collection and fund utilization. While increased internally generated revenue (IGR) was promised to fuel development projects, Ozigbo questions the visible impact of these funds, noting slow progress in critical infrastructure projects necessary for economic growth.

Perhaps most alarmingly, Ozigbo identifies insecurity as the “most cancerous challenge” to Anambra’s economic growth. This pervasive issue, he argues, has become a leading cause of capital flight, deterring investments and hampering the natural “Think Home” philosophy of Ndi Anambra.

In light of these challenges, Ozigbo calls for urgent and decisive action. He emphasizes the need for Governor Soludo to work closely with the federal government and stakeholders to create the peace and security necessary for economic prosperity. Additionally, he advocates for a reevaluation of economic strategies, prioritizing infrastructure development and fostering a more business-friendly environment.

Transparency in the use of state funds and closer collaboration with the private sector are other key recommendations put forward by Ozigbo. He maintains that Anambra’s potential for economic greatness remains vast, but realizing it requires a return to the innovative spirit that has long defined Ndi Anambra and a departure from what he describes as the prevailing “toxic business environment.”

As the #WakeUpSeries continues to spark crucial conversations about Anambra’s future, Ozigbo’s analysis serves as both a call to action and a reminder of the state’s untapped potential. The question now remains: How will Ndi Anambra and their leaders respond to this clarion call for economic revitalization?

For the full video and more information, check Valentine Ozigbo’s social media accounts

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAje6DGIzG2/?igsh=djJyZ29sZ2pwbmJo

X(Twitter)
https://x.com/valentineozigbo/status/1840841340479029445?s=46

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https://fb.watch/uWNkH7rnNc/?

Tiktok
https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMhrSgnnR/
[01:21, 10/2/2024] Dr. MoneyDibiaego: Please blog this at vcozigbo.org