By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Students of Anambra State on Saturday trooped out to Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital, to support the re-election of the State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, with their widow?s sum of N2 million.

The endorsement was organised by students, under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Anambra State Chapter.

They were said to have donated between N200 to N500 each to raise the total amount of N2 million.

Speaking at the event, Governor Soludo who was visibly overwhelmed by the students? gesture, expressed deep gratitude for their sacrifice, likening it to the widow?s mite.

He noted that their financial contribution from their limited pocket money mirrored similar acts of goodwill from artisans and transporters who have voluntarily supported him in appreciation of his administration?s impact.

Recalling a recent experience in Onitsha, Soludo shared how a bus driver handed over his entire day?s earnings as a show of gratitude for the governor?s road rehabilitation projects, which have reduced the need for frequent vehicle repairs.

He also recounted how, during the last Christmas season, two women, one of them an elderly widow, gifted him baskets of fruits and chicken, expressing joy over improved road infrastructure that now allows them to travel with ease.

Soludo said: ?I previously believed modern-day students were largely uninterested in governance. Your endorsement and financial contribution demonstrated that you recognize and appreciate good governance and wish to see its continuity.?

The governor reaffirmed his vision of making Anambra State a preferred destination rather than a departure lounge, ensuring that no resident would feel compelled to leave due to insecurity or lack of opportunities.

He promised to heed the students? call for him to seek re-election, urging them to actively participate in the campaign despite the apparent absence of strong opposition.

On education, Soludo revealed that the Southeast has the lowest number of applicants for the federal government?s student loan scheme, saying that upon learning that many students were unaware of the initiative, he pledged to work with student leaders to disseminate the necessary information so they could benefit from the scheme.

While assuring the students that his administration?s journey toward transformation had just begun, the governor pledged to grant them a subsidized rate at the upcoming Fun City once it becomes operational, noting that ongoing developmental projects are attracting investors, which will, in turn, create more job opportunities for graduates.

Soludo also reiterated his commitment to its advancement, even as he emphasised the refurbishment of school facilities and the provision of free education.

He further acknowledged the financial struggles of students in higher institutions and vowed to engage landlords to reduce accommodation costs, as he continues to plan to create an environment conducive for investors to build hostels, allowing them to recoup their investments over time.

Soludo added: ?Once resources permit, free education would be extended to all students in the state.?

Meanwhile, Governor Soludo?s administration is making plans to commence documentation of Anambra State indigenous students this year to facilitate the provision of bursary awards.

The governor further reassured students that his government remains committed to easing their financial burdens and ensuring they have the necessary support to complete their education.

He also reassured the students that his leadership remains focused on sustaining progress and securing a brighter future for all residents of Anambra State.

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