Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has hosted leaders of the Muslim community from the three senatorial zones of the state for an Iftar gathering at the Government House, Awka, known as the Light House.

The event, held in the spirit of Ramadan, brought together clerics, community leaders and representatives of various Muslim groups, underscoring what the governor described as “communal solidarity, inclusivity and long-lasting unity” in Anambra.

Sharing the evening meal with his guests, Soludo thanked the Muslim community for standing by him during the last governorship election, noting that their support contributed to his administration’s landslide victory, with about 73 per cent of the total votes cast.

He reiterated his campaign pledge of an inclusive government, stressing that his administration is committed to ensuring that every resident, regardless of faith or ethnic background, feels a sense of belonging in the state.

“We promised inclusivity, and we are delivering,” the governor said, adding that the contributions of Muslims to the social and economic life of Anambra are recognised and appreciated.

Soludo used the occasion to call for deeper national cohesion, referencing the reinstated national anthem as a reminder of Nigeria’s founding ideals of “One Nation, One Destiny.” He urged citizens to live out those words through mutual respect, tolerance and shared responsibility for peace.

Reaffirming his open-door policy, he declared that any Nigerian residing in Anambra should enjoy full and equal rights. “Once you are resident here, you have equal rights with everyone. All Nigerians should be able to choose where they want to live without fear of molestation or rejection,” he said.

The governor also pointed to what he described as a marked decline in insecurity across the state, particularly the once-frequent clashes between herders and farmers, which he said have now been reduced to a level of “non-significance.”

He highlighted the historic spirit of migration and integration associated with Anambra people, noting that “you find Anambra people literally in every village” across Nigeria. This, he said, is why his administration is determined to welcome and protect those who choose to make Anambra their home.

Responding on behalf of the Muslim community, the Secretary General of the Anambra State Muslim Council, Alhaji Sanni Ejoh, congratulated Soludo on his re-election and described his first term as “eventful, memorable, challenging, and result-laden.” He said such Iftar gatherings help to deepen trust and strengthen the cordial relationship between the government and Muslims in the state.

The Chairman of the Fulani community in Anambra, Alhaji Gidado Saddiki, also commended the prevailing atmosphere of peace and the sense of security enjoyed under the current administration, pledging continued cooperation with the government in sustaining harmony and development.