According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Chinua Achebe, a resident of Ogidi in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, passed away on March 21, 2013, at the age of 82, in Boston, Massachusetts.
During the Independence Day procession held in Awka on Sunday, Soludo expressed his views on Achebe, characterizing him as a prominent figure representing Africa's underappreciated heroes, on the occasion of Nigeria's 63rd anniversary.
Achebe, a prominent Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic, played a pivotal role in establishing a distinct identity and voice for African literature. Through his insightful contributions, he effectively reconstructed and enhanced the collective identity of the African people.
According to the governor, Achebe's recognition extends beyond being a hero in Anambra or Nigeria, since he is considered a hero on the African continent and beyond. However, the governor also noted that Achebe's acclaim is not widely acknowledged within his own country.
He stated that moving forward, the government will actively identify and honor its often overlooked heroes as a means of inspiring children and young individuals.
Regrettably, there exists a misconception among certain individuals who erroneously perceive legacies solely in the context of physical structures and materials. The concept of legacy pertains to the profound influence exerted on the existence of individuals and the development of human society.
Achebe did not hold the positions of president, governor, or military officer. He abstained from constructing bridges, roads, or airports; nonetheless, his enduring presence in our collective memory is expected to surpass that of the majority of presidents, governors, and ministers.
Achebe declined Nigeria's national honors on two occasions as a form of protest against what he considered as acts of injustice towards his own state, Anambra. Today, the state of Anambra will formally acknowledge and pay tribute to him.
Based on extensive talks, a prevailing agreement has been reached that the most fitting individual to be honored by having the first airport in Anambra named after them is none other than Chinua Achebe, widely regarded as Anambra's most significant literary figure of all time, whose contributions to the global literary landscape are unparalleled.
As a result, it has been decided to officially change the name of the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, located in Umueri, to the Chinua Achebe International Airport, also situated in Umueri.
The individual expressed the necessity for the airport to possess international capabilities and expressed the intention to collaborate with the Federal Government to ensure the airport's international status is fully realized.
Soludo emphasized the importance of Nigerians being purposeful in their efforts to ensure the success of the Nigerian project, as well as fostering a belief in the country's inherent capacity for greatness.
Over the course of the past 63 years, our collective progress has been characterized by missed chances, resulting in a state of ambiguity where the potential for achieving greatness remains.
No government or nation can be considered flawless. Each nation persists in its endeavor to achieve a more ideal state of unity. Achieving stability, growth, and sustainability poses significant challenges, as it necessitates a comprehensive and long-term approach rather than relying on immediate solutions.
However, it is imperative for all individuals to engage in collective contemplation and concerted efforts in order to extricate Nigeria from its present predicaments. The speaker emphasized that Nigeria is the sole country under consideration, and it is imperative to ensure its functionality for the entire population.
The governor asserted that his administration was established upon a genuine progressive agenda and will persist in fostering a conducive atmosphere for the prosperity and resilience of the inhabitants.
According to a report by NAN, the procession witnessed participation from law enforcement agencies, paramilitary groups, and students representing various educational institutions.
