By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
RESOUNDING CONFIDENCE in democratic leadership echoed on Sunday as President Bola Tinubu congratulated Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on his re-election as Governor of Anambra State, describing the victory as an affirmation of the people’s faith in his administration and vision for progress.
The President, in a statement personally signed by him, said the overwhelming mandate recorded by Governor Soludo in Saturday’s governorship election made him the third leader in the state’s history to win a second term.
President Tinubu extended his felicitations to the people of Anambra State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the security agencies for ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.
He commended the maturity of Anambra voters and the professionalism of the electoral and security officials, noting that their conduct had further strengthened public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.
According to the President, Soludo’s re-election is a testament to visionary leadership and the remarkable progress achieved under his administration.
He said the governor’s application of academic discipline to governance had redefined accountability and transparency in public service.
“Professor Soludo, the Solution, has demonstrated that indeed knowledge is power and that academic principles can be applied in serving the people, undergirding accountability, transparency and prudent management of people and resources,” the President stated.
He recalled his visit to Anambra State in May, where he inaugurated several developmental projects executed by the Soludo administration.
President Tinubu said he was impressed by the quality of work, foresight, and innovation behind the initiatives, describing them as a reflection of thoughtful governance.
“I highlighted the good thinking behind the landmark projects being embarked upon by Mr Solution. That experience is indeed remarkable and will remain indelible in my mind,” he said.
The President commended the governor for bringing discipline, brilliance, and a fresh perspective to governance, adding that under Soludo, Anambra had continued to justify its motto as “The Light of the Nation.”
He urged Governor Soludo to be magnanimous in victory, extend a hand of fellowship to his political opponents, and unite all stakeholders towards consolidating the gains of his first term.
“I urge Governor Soludo to be magnanimous in victory and to seek the cooperation of his opponents in the just-concluded elections,” he said.
President Tinubu assured the Anambra governor of his administration’s continued support and partnership in delivering sustainable development to the state and the wider South-East region.
“I assure Governor Soludo of my unwavering support, and I look forward to continued collaboration between Anambra and the Federal Government,” the President affirmed.
He noted that the victory of the opposition All Grand Progressives Alliance (AGPA) in the election demonstrated the vitality and competitiveness of Nigeria’s democratic system, underscoring that electoral success remains open to all leaders who demonstrate commitment, competence, and hard work.
“The victory of the opposition All Grand Progressives Alliance in the election again demonstrates the vitality of our political system and the fact that victory for any progressive and hardworking leader can hardly be encumbered or denied,” he stated.
President Tinubu also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission under its new Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, for what he described as a credible and transparent exercise that reflected the will of the electorate.
He expressed satisfaction with reports received from observers and stakeholders regarding the smooth conduct of the polls and encouraged INEC to sustain the momentum of credible elections in Nigeria.
“I must also thank the new INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, and his team for conducting what observers have described as a credible election, based on the reports I have received thus far,” the President said.
He further charged the commission to consolidate on its recent performance, ensuring that future elections build on the same transparency and credibility.
“I charge the commission with maintaining the standards and further improving its performance, so we can continue to strengthen and deepen our electoral system,” President Tinubu concluded.
The re-election of Professor Soludo marks a new phase in Anambra’s political history, extending his mandate to continue the infrastructural, economic, and educational reforms initiated during his first term.
The President’s message of commendation and cooperation underscores the Federal Government’s readiness to work closely with state governments irrespective of party affiliations to deliver inclusive development nationwide.
