By Perpetua Egesimba
Anambra Governor, Willie Obiano, said the state was experiencing significant difficulties with finances, as revenue has dropped from 100 to 27 per cent.
The governor said the development has hampered the progress of projects being executed in the state.
Obiano made the disclosure through his Senior Special Adviser, Mrs. Uloma Wise, at a press conference and launch of Association of Nnokwa Professionals, in Lagos.
“We have officially been declared a nation in recession, Anambra State resources have dropped. But we will make sure the recession does not slow down the progress of the state as we believe that Anambra should be the next Dubai of Africa.
‘‘I am pleased that Anambra State indigenes here in Lagos are progressive in their thinking because such organisations where you have professionals that would bring their knowledge and experience to bear in supporting what the state is doing in the development of Anambra and Nnokwa in particular is welcomed. It shows unity, maturity and thinking in the same line with the governor because the strength of Anambra is significantly demonstrated through its people.”
Uloma said as their liaison officer in Lagos, the state government was happy and would partner with them as regards development.
“They have mentioned some problems they are facing in Nneokwa, the governor cannot be everywhere all the time, he depends on people to identify the problems.
“We take things seriously, no matter the quarter it is coming from, but with this professional group, we get constructive criticisms and advice. It’s a win-win situation when we know the areas that we need to focus on and their advice is welcomed.”
She said no community should be left behind in the development of Anambra.
Chairman of the association, Simon Akachukwu-Ukpaka said the association was launched as a result of the yearnings of professionals from Nnokwa in Nigeria and the Diaspora, who feel there was need to come together to harness the human resources available for the effective socio-political and economic development of the town.
“We want to create political awareness amongst Nnokwa citizens with a view to attracting government patronage in the community; encourage, support, advice and assist constituted authorities in the community for good governance and continued peace in the community.
The association, however, pledged to assist constituted authorities in Nnokwa, including Nnokwa Progressive Union (NPU), Igwe Oranyelu IV and his cabinet in reaching out to government and its agencies with a view to ensuring that Nnokwa is not left out among the communities that will benefit rom educational and other developmental strides of the state.
It said it was ready to support government that will add value to the community in providing infrastructure like roads, electricity, water, schools, markets, town halls, employment of the youths, appointment to political positions and welfare of the less privileged in the community.