By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Out-going Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has announced plans to use the new International Conference Center, Awka, as the venue for the swearing-in of the Governor-elect, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, come March 17, 2022.

Obiano made the announcement on Monday during an inspection tour of the 10,000 sitting capacity Conference Center in company of some cabinet members of the traditional ruler of Aguleri.

Speaking at the project site, the Governor said that with the airport up and running, the Center will be viable and put to use all-year-round.

He said that his motivation for the architectural design of the project is the popular ‘American Still Jet’ which he described as one of the best in the American military arsenal.

While saying that the architectural design is a replica of an average Anambra person, he expressed hope that the contractor is competent enough to deliver on the project.

On his maintenance and sustainability plans for the project, Obiano said: “The contractor will be as facility managers to be maintaining the place. It is the only way it will last, just like the airport and stadium.

“With the airport in place, the Center will be viable and put to use all-year-round.”

In his speech, the contractor of the project, Mr. Mark Tu, explained that the Center has a sitting capacity of between 10,000 and 12,000 persons at once.

He explained that they are rounding off the ceiling and lighting work and about to commence the final painting for the building.

If all goes as planned, March 17 will mark the first time a swearing-in event will hold outside Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, which has over the years served as the major event centre in the state.