Governor Soludo Vows To End 21-Year Power Outage at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has pledged to restore electricity to the Uli campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), ending a 21-year power outage that has plagued the institution. This commitment was made during a one-day working visit to the campus in Ihiala Local Government Area, according to a statement by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime.

The governor assured that both the campus and the surrounding Uli community would benefit from the intervention. While acknowledging the orderly nature of the campus environment, he emphasized the urgent need for significant infrastructure upgrades.

“After 21 years of being without electricity, students of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus, are set to start enjoying power supply,” Soludo said. “Even Uli as a community will equally benefit from the intervention when completed. We have to work out a plan to connect power back to Uli and the campus.”

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to education, describing it as the foundation of Anambra’s future. He emphasized the state’s governing ideology of inclusiveness, saying, “Our party’s mantra and governing ideology is to leave no one behind. Education is the future and the foundation of Anambra. That is why we are investing in human capital that is productive at home and exportable abroad.”

Infrastructure and Digitalization Plans

Governor Soludo highlighted plans to provide internet and WiFi access on campus, which he believes will enhance students’ access to the digital world. He expressed optimism that this move would empower students, stressing that “today’s world is about what you can do, not just the certificate you possess.”

In addition to power restoration, the governor announced plans to commence the gradual construction of internal roads within the campus, signaling a holistic approach to infrastructural development.

Community Involvement and Strategic Vision

Calling on the Uli community to protect the institution, Soludo assured that his administration is committed to revamping the campus. Prof. Kate Omenugha, Acting Vice Chancellor of COOU, lauded the governor for his support and visionary leadership. She highlighted the strategic importance of the campus, stating, “If we propel this Uli campus, it’ll translate to the Japan of Africa.”

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-deh, and other key government officials also reaffirmed their support for the governor’s initiatives, describing him as an education-friendly leader.

The visit further underscored Soludo’s dedication to revitalizing education and infrastructure across Anambra State, ensuring that institutions like COOU are well-equipped to drive progress and innovation.