Thirteen years after his passing, the legacy of Nigeria’s foremost literary icon, Chinua Achebe, continues to inspire generations. In a renewed tribute to the celebrated author, Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, on Saturday unveiled a statue of Achebe at Ugwunwasike Roundabout in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, Governor Soludo described the late novelist as a global symbol of excellence whose contributions to African literature and culture have earned him enduring international recognition.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving Achebe’s legacy while creating an enabling environment that will nurture more literary talents from Anambra State 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 ceremony attracted government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and literary enthusiasts. Among those in attendance was the Mayor of Idemili North Local Government Area, Stanley Nkwoka, who described both Achebe and Governor Soludo as world-class figures whose achievements have brought honour and global recognition to Anambra State.
Widely regarded as the father of modern African literature, Achebe gained international acclaim with his landmark 1958 novel, *Things Fall Apart*, which has been translated into dozens of languages and remains one of the most widely studied works of African literature worldwide.
The unveiling of the monument is expected to further preserve Achebe’s legacy while promoting cultural heritage and literary tourism in Ogidi, his hometown.
Chinua Achebe died on March 21, 2013, at the age of 82 in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, after a brief illness. He was laid to rest on May 23, 2013, in his hometown of Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.