The Anambra State Government has launched its homeland consciousness initiative to encourage indigenes of the state in the Diaspora, especially in Lagos State, to start thinking of their homeland.

Speaking at a press briefing yesterday, the Liaison Officer of the state in Lagos, Leo Chiegboka, said the initiative, championed by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, would be launched on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

Chiegboka said the initiative is not calling for the relocation of the people’s investments but to motivate them to consider their home state as an investment destination.

According to him, it is a time for insightful conversations that will shape the future of the homeland and reinforce shared identity, commitment and responsibility as Ndi Anambra at home and in the Diaspora. He noted that Anambra’s homeland is not just a place, it is the indigene’s heritage, pride and the foundation upon which a prosperous future must be built.

He said: “There seems to be a notable anomaly in our nature and business operations, which we need to examine for reorientation, enhanced image, and greater benefits. Ndigbo have been stereotyped as a people who develop other people’s homelands at the expense of their own.

“Charity, as they say, begins at home. Therefore, it has become imperative for us to introspect and reevaluate that tendency given the current political reality, and for our greater good. We need to exercise caution and be proactive to safeguard our business interests.”

Chiegboka noted that it has become imperative that they begin the balancing act by redirecting some investments to their homeland to engender further developments, poverty reduction and greater prosperity in various localities.

He stressed that the Anambra Homeland Consciousness initiative seeks to strengthen the bond between the people, harness their collective resources and create pathways for sustainable development in Anambra.

He added: “During this event, we will engage in discussions that will address critical aspects of our progress – economic, empowerment, investment opportunities, infrastructural development and our role as stakeholders in the Anambra project.

“We believe that through meaningful dialogue, collaboration and strategic planning, we can unlock new possibilities that will drive our state forward.”