Anambra, Poland to strengthen bilateral ties

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By Madu Obi

Anambra and Poland are to strengthen bilateral ties between them, especially in the areas of economic and cultural partnerships.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Nigeria, Mr Michael Cygan, who paid a courtesy visit to Governor Chukwuma Soludo at the Government House, Awka, expressed optimism that ties between his country and Anambra State would be pursued.

Cygan, who earlier delivered a lecture at Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, however, observed that Poland’s academic engagement with Nigeria, is yet to meet its institutional expectations, as previous exchanges lacked the desired impact.

The envoy commended Anambra’s rich cultural heritage and said he was committed to making the state a major pillar in Poland’s partnership with Nigeria.

The state governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, speaking during the visit, called for a sustainable partnership between the state and Poland in critical sectors that can drive development.

According to the governor, lessons from Poland’s history should inspire Nigeria to harness its potential for rapid development, adding that Anambra remained a strategic destination for international partnerships outside Lagos and Abuja.

He expressed delight at the Ambassador’s role as guest speaker at the 16th convocation ceremony at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, noting that it aligned with the state’s vision for intellectual and economic growth.

Soludo described Anambra as a hub of enterprise with strong global economic players, stressing the need to deepen private sector collaboration to ensure long-term sustainability.

He stated that fostering business-to-business relationships with the enterprising people of the state remained key to building enduring partnerships.

The Vice-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Kate Omenugha, who accompanied the Polish Ambassador during the visit, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to global relevance through international collaborations.

She said that the Ambassador’s participation in the convocation ceremony marked a significant milestone in advancing academic linkages under the Soludo administration.