Gov. Peter Obi of Anambra State has identified poor investment in human capital development as part of the challenges facing the country, which the present Federal Government under Dr. Goodluck Jonathan is trying so hard to remedy.

Obi was speaking while presenting cheques totaling N40 million to Archbishop Valerian Okeke for on-going rehabilitation and constructionwork in Queen of theRosary Secondary School, Onitsha (Refectory); Christ the King Secondary School, Onitsha (Hostel); St. Charles Secondary School, Onitsha (rebuilding of school structures); and Holy Rosary Hospital Onitsha (Pharmacy and Diagnostic Centre).

While presenting the cheques to the archbishop, the governor expressed happiness that the partnership with the church is yielding fruits beneficial to the people of the state. He noted that Asian countries are harvesting the fruits of similar investment they made over the years in building human infrastructure that is now driving the economy.

In all the institutions visited, the governor was impressed with the level transformation already recorded in the education and health sectors as a result of the collaboration with the church.

Responding, Valerian Okeke commended Gov. Obi for providing the students an opportunity to explore their potential and attain great height in life. He described the present efforts of the government under Obi to rebuild the human capital as unprecedented, saying that it will contribute towards restoring the glory of the state.

Speaking further, the cleric commended the governor for his foresight, solidarity and support to the church, private organisations and people of goodwill who are committed to moving the state forward by rendering valuable services.

In a different development, Governor Obi also inspected some roads his administration is constructing around Onitsha. At the Nkpor-Amawbia Road, he directed CCC, the contractors handling the job, to accelerate the pace of work so as to ensure early completion.

The governor explained that all necessary components, including culverts, have been put in place to ensure proper channeling of water to correct defects that have been resulting to persistent collapse of the area over the years.

Meanwhile, Obi has warned the residents of Onitsha, Nkpor and environs of the dangers of blocking water channels and drainage system. He issued the warning while inspecting Limca Road, as well as Nkpor and Joedone roads. The governor threatened to shut down businesses that allow culverts in their areas to be blocked.

•Photo: Gov. Obi speaking to the students of St Charles’ College, Onitsha, when he paid them a visit yesterday and gave them cheques for the continued rehabilitation of the school.

•Photo below: Gov. Obi (middle), flanked by Commissioner for Education, Uju Okeke (right), presenting cheques of N40m to Archbishop Valerian Okeke (left), for various projects the State Government is executing in the schools returned to the Missionary.