Awka, Anambra State – April 29, 2025 — Governor Chukwuma Soludo has called for deeper collaboration among traditional rulers across the South-East region as a cornerstone for regional transformation and cultural revival. The governor made this appeal during a meeting of the South-East Traditional Rulers’ Council held in Awka on Tuesday.

Describing traditional leaders as vital custodians of heritage and agents of development, Soludo emphasised that the unity of purpose among stakeholders is key to building “the South-East of our dreams.”

“We are as different as we are similar. It is important to recognise the diverse cultures within the region and the strength that can be found in unity,” Soludo said. “Keep up the spirit. We are stronger together, united in spite of our diversity.”

He highlighted the Igbo language as a unifying force across dialects and stressed its role in binding the people culturally. Expressing concern over the fading of traditional norms and the erosion of communal values, he noted, “The Igbo land I knew as a child is no longer the same. The fundamentals seem to be eluding us.”

The governor lamented a rising culture that glorifies ill-gotten wealth and called for a redirection toward celebrating values such as hard work, integrity, and enterprise — once hallmarks of Igbo society.

“A society becomes what it celebrates,” he stated. “We need to advocate for a return to celebrating the region’s rich heritage and industrious spirit.”

Soludo urged traditional rulers to take a leading role in shaping this moral and cultural renaissance, and to collaborate closely with governments and civil society groups to “reclaim their homeland.”

In his remarks, the Chairman of the South-East Traditional Rulers Council, Dr E.C. Okeke, praised Soludo’s leadership and developmental strides, stating, “You are a good governor, doing well in all ramifications. We commend your initiatives and commitment to improving the lives of the citizens in Anambra State and beyond.”

The meeting concluded with a call to action for traditional institutions, state governments, and community organisations to forge stronger partnerships to address the socio-cultural and economic challenges facing the South-East.