Every Monday that our markets remain closed, economic activity migrates beyond our borders. Businesses that once thrived in Anambra are relocating to neighbouring states- Rt. Hon. Sir Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze, PhD(Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly)
Ndi Anambra, it is time to reclaim our Mondays and, with them, our shared economic destiny.
Yesterday at the Anambra State House of Assembly, we undertook a sober and fact-driven assessment of the impact of the recurring Monday sit-at-home across our state. What emerged from that deliberation was deeply troubling and impossible to ignore. The present situation is inflicting severe and avoidable damage on our economy, our livelihoods, and the future of our children.
Every Monday that our markets remain closed and our streets fall silent, economic activity migrates beyond our borders. Businesses that once thrived in Anambra are relocating to neighbouring states, while our traders, artisans, transporters, and daily wage earners bear the cost. In effect, we are exporting our prosperity elsewhere while weakening our own economic foundation.
The figures before us are stark. Anambra State alone forfeits an estimated ₦19.6 billion every single Monday. Across the South-East, the loss stands at approximately ₦88 billion. On an annual scale, petty traders and daily income earners across the region suffer losses estimated at ₦4.6 trillion. These are not abstract statistics; they represent closed shops, unpaid school fees, unmet medical needs, and shrinking household incomes.
Beyond the economic toll lies an even more painful consequence. In communities such as Ihiala and Onitsha, children recently missed their WAEC examinations due to enforced shutdowns. When education is disrupted, the future is endangered. No society can knowingly sacrifice its next generation and still claim to be acting in its own interest.
Umunnem Ndi Anambra, this is a moment for collective reflection and courage. Government continues to play its part by strengthening security and safeguarding lives and property.
However, sustainable progress also requires the resolve of the people. We are a state renowned for enterprise, resilience, and industry. Our identity has never been rooted in fear or self-inflicted decline, but in hard work, ingenuity, and forward movement.
I therefore appeal to every well-meaning Anambra citizen to stand with reason, with hope, and with our shared future. Let us reclaim our Mondays, restore normal economic life, and protect the opportunities our children deserve.
May Anambra continue to rise.
©Rt. Hon. Sir Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze, PhD
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