Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has defended his choice to wear a cap bearing President Bola Tinubu’s insignia during his visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday, describing it as a symbol of political unity and shared progressive ideals.

Speaking to State House correspondents after meeting with the President, Soludo said their engagement was “pleasant” and that Tinubu was “in high spirit, hale and hearty.” He declined to disclose details of their conversation but emphasised that the cap’s design predated Tinubu’s presidency.

“These caps were produced even from the time the President visited Anambra State, with billboards and messages proclaiming that progressives are working together,” Soludo explained. “It’s a fundamental idea I believe in  that all political parties which profess progressivism should unite in a massive coalition to deepen democracy, economic growth, and social development in our country.”

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governor brushed aside any controversy over the gesture. “I don’t have any apologies about it. President Tinubu is my friend  has been my friend for 22 years now and counting. You don’t deny your friend. I support him and I’m impressed by the bold steps he has taken, especially in the economy and structural reforms. We’re taking the right steps and need to stay the course,” he stated.

On security, Soludo said his administration is confronting the state’s challenges through a “holistic” strategy that blends kinetic and non-kinetic measures. He cited the passage of the Homeland Security Law in January as a key move to address insecurity at its roots.

“All the deadly native doctors are on the run from the state because they deceive our youths and lure them into criminality,” he said. “We are also focusing on youth empowerment and job creation. We have trained and empowered about 5,000 young people, and another 8,700 will receive billions in support this month or next.”