Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has issued a clarion call for collective action from residents to combat the escalating challenges of flooding and gully erosion that have been affecting the state. His remarks came during a solemn interdenominational thanksgiving service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Faith in Awka, marking Nigeria's 66th independence anniversary.

During his address, Soludo expressed deep sorrow over the recent tragic death of six-year-old Success Ezenwafor, who lost her life in a flooding incident. He used this unfortunate event to underscore the urgent need for personal responsibility among citizens in addressing environmental issues. "The state government has expended tens of billions of naira without significantly scratching the surface of the problem," he lamented, stressing that the fight against flooding and erosion requires individual commitment and community effort.

Soludo urged residents to take proactive measures, such as managing water runoff from their properties, avoiding blockage of drainage systems, planting trees, and regularly cleaning drainage channels. He emphasized that the responsibility to improve the environment lies with everyone, stating, "This country is our own and we have no other."

Reflecting on Nigeria's journey since independence, Soludo acknowledged the progress made, including the growth of educational institutions in Anambra from just two universities at independence to ten today. However, he also recognized the challenges that persist, urging citizens to move beyond complaints and embrace a mindset of accountability and action.

The Archbishop of the Niger and Bishop of Awka, Most Revd. Alexander Ibezim, who delivered the sermon during the service, echoed Soludo's sentiments, asserting that true independence is about self-determination and accountability in governance. He lamented the decline of the agricultural sector since independence but remained optimistic about Nigeria's potential, encouraging citizens to speak positively about their nation.

The service saw the attendance of prominent figures, including the First Lady, Dr. Nonye Soludo, Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Somtochukwu Udeze, among others. The event served not only as a commemoration of Nigeria's independence but also as a rallying point for collective action towards a sustainable and responsible environmental future in Anambra State.