The Anambra International Airport, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, will soon adopt a new name as a mark of respect for the legendary literary figure, Prof. Chinua Achebe.
Soludo made this revelation on Sunday during the Independence Day festivities at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital, announcing that the airport’s new name would be “Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri.”
Furthermore, the governor affirmed that his government is fully committed to accelerating the state’s progress, and he expressed confidence in its ability to navigate through the difficulties it faces.
Soludo went on to express his satisfaction that a significant number of individuals who played pivotal roles in Nigeria’s independence in 1960 have been honoured with various projects bearing their names.
Read also: UNN Honours Achebe With Memorial Bust
However, he made a noteworthy observation that most of those recognised with project names were public servants. He stressed that his administration has broken with tradition by naming the Anambra airport in honour of Achebe.
He said, ‘We must say that you don’t have to hold a political position to contribute to the advancement of our civilisation.’
‘Henceforth, we shall be deliberate in fishing out and celebrating our largely unsung heroes, as a motivation to our children and youths in terms of what matters, including distinguished teachers, medical and other professionals, persons of honesty and integrity, philanthropists with known sources of wealth, entrepreneurs/job creators, community leaders/developers, clergy with great devotion, etc.’
‘An example of Africa’s unsung hero is the late Prof. Chinua Achebe. Achebe was not a president or a governor or minister. He did not build bridges or roads or airports. But he will outlive most presidents, governors or ministers.’
‘Achebe gave the African literature an identity and a voice. In a way, he rightly reconstructed and redefined who we are and we will never forget. Indeed, he was not an Anambra hero, nor a Nigerian hero. He was an African and global hero, and yet largely unsung at home.’
‘Consequently, we will rename the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri, to Chinua Achebe International Airport, Umueri. Yes, it has to be an international airport, and we hope to work with the Federal Government to give full effect to its international status.’