July 16, 2025
His Excellency,
Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR
Governor, Anambra State
Government House
Awka, Anambra State
Your Excellency,
Subject: Appreciation for Ongoing Road Expansion and Suggestions for Sustainable Urban Development in Nnewi
We write on behalf of Oganihu Nnewi, a group of concerned professionals and stakeholders committed to the sustainable development and modernization of Nnewi town.
We wish to commend Your Excellency for the bold and visionary steps your administration has taken to expand and dualize major roads across Anambra State, particularly in Nnewi. This initiative is timely and transformational. By widening key roads and improving road infrastructure, your government is not only giving the state and Nnewi a more modern and organized appearance but also addressing long-standing concerns around road safety, congestion, and head-on collisions. We deeply appreciate your commitment to making Anambra a livable and competitive state.
In the spirit of partnership and civic responsibility, we would also like to humbly bring the following matters to your attention for consideration:
- Creation of Recreational Parks in Nnewi and Across the State
There is a growing need for well-designed public recreation parks in Nnewi where residents can relax, walk, exercise, or engage in social activities without encroaching on busy roads or causing obstructions. Parks contribute significantly to public health, social cohesion, and mental well-being, and we believe they should be part of the broader urban planning framework for our cities. - Improved Urban Planning and Building Control
As development accelerates in Nnewi, we respectfully suggest that the state government enforce stronger controls to prevent unplanned, haphazard construction. Building codes and zoning regulations should be strictly applied to avoid the chaotic, unregulated expansion that has marred the development of many Nigerian cities. - Tree Planting and Environmental Beautification
We also propose that a tree-planting initiative be incorporated into the road development projects to ensure that Nnewi and other parts of the state do not evolve into concrete jungles. Trees are essential for environmental balance, temperature control, and urban aesthetics. Greener cities are healthier, more beautiful, and more sustainable. - Provision of Designated Cemeteries in Nnewi and Other Towns
There is also a pressing need to establish well-planned and designated cemeteries within Nnewi and across other towns in Anambra State. The absence of clearly demarcated burial spaces has led to the growing trend of indiscriminate and unregulated burials in residential areas, which poses both environmental and public health risks. We understand that, due to the deep cultural attachment to burying loved ones within family compounds, the idea of public cemeteries may initially face resistance. However, with a robust enlightenment campaign that emphasizes health, safety, and dignity, this shift can be successfully embraced by the public. A structured approach to this important aspect of community planning will uphold dignity in death and enhance urban order.
We remain confident in Your Excellency’s dedication to the transformation of Anambra State and assure you of our support and willingness to contribute ideas, time, and resources toward initiatives that will uplift Nnewi and the entire state.
Thank you once again for your leadership, and please accept the assurances of our highest regard.
Yours faithfully,
Okechukwu Nwafor-Okonkwo, Esq.
Secretary, Oganihu Nnewi
Azuka Onwuka
Coordinator, Oganihu Nnewi
CC:
Hon. Echezona Anazodo
Chairman, Nnewi North Local Government Area Nnewi, Anambra State