Soludo unveils Achebe statue in Ogidi as Anambra honours the literary icon and supports efforts to inspire future generations of writers
Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, unveiled a statue of renowned Nigerian author Chinua Achebe, pledging to preserve the writer’s legacy and encourage the emergence of future literary icons.
The monument, located at Ugwunwasike Roundabout, Ogidi, Achebe’s hometown, was unveiled 13 years after the passing of the celebrated novelist whose works shaped global understanding of African literature.
Soludo described Achebe as a symbol of excellence whose contributions to literature and culture earned him international recognition.
The governor said his administration would continue supporting initiatives aimed at preserving the author’s achievements while creating opportunities for young writers from Anambra and beyond.
“Achebe represents excellence and remains one of the world’s greatest literary figures. We will continue to support initiatives that inspire the emergence of more Achebes in Idemili North and Anambra State,” Soludo said.
The event brought together government officials, traditional leaders, community representatives and literary enthusiasts who gathered to celebrate the enduring influence of the literary icon.
Mayor of Idemili North Local Government Area, Stanley Nkwoka, praised Achebe’s contribution to global literature, describing the late author and Governor Soludo as personalities whose achievements have brought recognition to Anambra State.
The unveiling of the Achebe statue marks another significant effort to preserve the memory of one of Africa’s most influential writers while promoting cultural heritage and literary tourism in Ogidi.
Achebe, widely regarded as the father of modern African literature, gained worldwide acclaim through his 1958 novel Things Fall Apart, a landmark work that has been translated into several languages and remains a major text in schools and universities across the world.
The author’s influence extended beyond fiction, as he used literature to explore African identity, colonial experiences and social change, earning him global respect throughout his career.
Chinua Achebe died on March 21, 2013, at the age of 82, in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, following a brief illness. He was buried on May 23, 2013, in Ogidi, Anambra State.
The new monument is expected to serve as both a tribute to Achebe’s remarkable journey and a reminder of the role of literature in shaping cultural identity and inspiring future generations.
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