Security has been significantly intensified across Awka, the capital of Anambra State, ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s scheduled visit on Thursday.
According to The News Agency of Nigeria, several roads in the city were cordoned off, with a visible and robust deployment of security personnel stationed at strategic locations.
Officers and operatives from various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, and local vigilante groups, have all been mobilised to ensure the safety and orderliness of the city during the visit.
Confirming the security arrangements, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that all security operatives were fully equipped and ready to maintain peace before, during, and after the President’s engagement.
President Tinubu is expected to inaugurate several landmark projects executed by the Anambra State Government. These include the Solution FunCity, Anambra Country Club, New Government House, New Government Lodge, and the New Presidential Lodge.
Also on the President’s itinerary is the unveiling of the Emeka Anyaoku Centre at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, named after the renowned diplomat and elder statesman. He will also commission the *Iconic Light of the Nation Tower* located at the New Government House—a symbolic architectural project that represents the identity of Anambra State, built by Dutum Construction Ltd.
To manage vehicular flow and minimise congestion during the visit, traffic was redirected in several areas, resulting in light traffic across major routes in the capital city.
Residents of Awka have expressed optimism and excitement about the President’s visit, with many viewing it as a moment of pride for the state.
Mr Kennedy Ikenna, a local businessman, said, “I am pleased that President Tinubu would be commissioning projects in Anambra for the first time.”
Sharing a similar sentiment, Mrs Kate Esione, a civil servant, welcomed the visit while calling on the President to prioritise development efforts in the South-East region.
She said, “I welcome the visit and urge the president to focus more on improving the welfare of people in the South-East region.”
President Tinubu’s visit marks a significant occasion as it is the first time he will be officially commissioning projects in Anambra State since assuming office.
