Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has renamed the Anambra International Airport after late literary icon, Prof Chinua Achebe.

Soludo announced this during the Independence Day celebration at Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital.

Soludo stated that it was a good thing that many of those who contributed to the independence of Nigeria in 1960 have had one project or the other named after them.

He, however, lamented that all the projects were named after public office holders, saying his government would change the norm starting with recognizing Achebe by naming the Anambra Airport after him.

“We must signal that you don’t have to hold political positions to contribute to the advancement of our civilization.

“Henceforth, we shall be deliberate in fishing out and celebrating our largely unsung heroes, as motivation to our children and youths in terms of what matters, including distinguished teachers, medical and other professionals, persons of honesty and integrity, philanthropists with known sources of wealth, entrepreneurs/job creators, community leaders/developers, clergy with great devotion, etc.

“An example of Africa’s unsung hero is the late Professor Albert Chinualumogu Achebe.

“Achebe was not a President or Governor or Minister. He did not build bridges, roads or airports. But he will outlive most presidents, governors or ministers.

“Achebe gave African literature an identity and a voice. In a way, he rightly reconstructed and redefined who we are and we will never forget. Indeed, he was not an Anambra hero, nor a Nigerian hero. He was an African and global hero, and yet largely unsung at home.

“Consequently, we will rename the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, Umueri, to CHINUA ACHEBE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, UMUERI. Yes, it has to be an international airport, and we hope to work with the Federal Government to give full effect to its international status,” Soludo said.