Society’s enduring virtues of love, unity and brotherhood are some of the central themes that dominated the Inaugural Address of the new Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano after taking the oath of office, today, in an elaborate ceremony in Awka, the Anambra State capital in Nigeria’s South-East.

Chief Obiano, ex-banker and technocrat who won the November 16 and 30, 2013 gubernatorial elections on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), took over from the immediate past governor, Mr. Peter Obi, whose eight-year reign has been largely described as successful

In a highly inspiring address titled ‘Expanding the Frontiers of Excellence’; Obiano sought to rouse the consciousness of Ndi Anambra by reminding them of the Igbo industry and ingenuity when he said “a people who astonished the world with their ingenuity and resourcefulness during wartime can lend a weighty hand to efforts to re-make our world in peace-time. The time has come to prove to ourselves that the entrepreneurial spirit for which we are known all over the world can take firm roots at home; that together as one we can be masters.”

Obiano’s call for love was further affirmed by President Jonathan through his representative, Senator Ben Ndi Obi, Presidential Adviser on Inter-party Affairs, who said that the present peaceful dispensation which the state enjoys evidently displayed at the celebrations should be sustained.

The celebration marked a united front by politicians in the state with all local governments and their officials present despite their political inclinations. It is the first time in the history of Anambra State of a successful transition of power between two governors in a civil and democratic atmosphere.

In an emotion-laden speech outgoing Governor Obi in clear terms advised Governor Obiano: “Your agreement is with the children of Anambra State. Give them a better future, give them a better Anambra and it will be well with you. You are not indebted to anybody. I am not indebted to anybody. I came with my car; I leave with my car back to my home.”

Celebrations were held in all local governments presided over by council chairmen aside the state capital, Awka, where the inauguration took place to usher in the new government. It was a colourful display of dancers, masquerades and female groups who took to the streets to celebrate the transition.

Governor Obiano took his at exactly 2:10pm, promising that he will continue the good work of his predecessor.

In his inaugural speech, Governor Obiano appreciated the effort of ex-Governor Obi for his great contributions to the state in various areas of livelihood.

The newly sworn-in Governor said he accept the position with high sense of humility and great responsibility to serve the people of the state.

He said: “Under my leadership, we will have no choice but to consolidate on the great foundational structures put in place by my predecessor, Governor Peter Obi.”

He expressed gratitude to all and sundry who in one way or the other, contributed to the success of the election and subsequent assumption of office. He acknowledged the contributions of his party national chairman, Chief Victor Umeh, and the Anambra electorate which voted for him.

•Photo shows Anambra State Governor, Chief Wille Obiano, his wife by his side, reading his Inaugural Address . . . today in Awka.

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