Tag: Mbah

 

 

By Sylvester Udemezue

I recently came across a news report titled *”‘Judicial Independence Must Be Effective, Not Just Formal’ — Gov. Mbah Commissions Enugu Digital Court Facility,”* in which it was reported that the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Peter Mbah, commissioned a newly built digital court facility.

The project was presented as a major step toward modernising the judiciary and enhancing speedy justice delivery. According to the report, the Governor emphasised that judicial independence must be substantive rather than merely formal, highlighting technological integration and financial autonomy as critical to achieving this goal.

The facility reportedly comprises several digitally equipped courtrooms intended to decongest courts and improve efficiency, while the Chief Judge of Enugu State expressed appreciation to the Governor for his support of judicial reforms.

While the initiative may appear commendable at first glance, the report raises fundamental and unsettling questions about the true meaning and practical reality of judicial independence in Nigeria.

1. First, why is the Enugu State Judiciary unable to build a digital court facility for itself? Why must such an essential judicial infrastructure project originate from, and be executed by, the Executive arm of government?

2. Second, why must the Governor personally “commission” a judicial facility? Why could the Chief Judge of Enugu State (who constitutionally heads the judiciary in the state) not be the one to initiate, complete, and, if necessary, commission such a project? Indeed, must a judicial facility await ceremonial commissioning by the Executive before it can be put to use, or would the heavens fall if the courts simply commenced operations once the facility was completed?

These questions go to the heart of the matter. Against this background, one must ask whether the Governor was truly serious when he declared that judicial independence and financial autonomy must be effective and not merely formal. With due respect, it is difficult to reconcile that statement with the reality it seeks to describe. A judiciary that depends on the Executive for court buildings, digital infrastructure, judges’ residences, official vehicles, and even basic operational facilities cannot, by any meaningful standard, be said to be independent. Financial dependence inevitably breeds institutional vulnerability. In this context, the age-old principle remains relevant: he who pays the piper dictates the tune. Judicial independence cannot thrive where the Executive plays the role of benefactor and provider for the judiciary. The contradiction is stark and unavoidable.

There is absolutely no reason why the judiciary should not have comprehensive annual budgetary provisions covering all its recurrent, operational and capital needs. Judicial leaders, like their counterparts in the Executive and the Legislature, should prepare and submit their budget proposals for inclusion in the annual appropriation process and thereafter appear before the appropriate legislative bodies to defend those budgets. Once duly passed and signed into law, funds should be released directly to the judiciary from the appropriate pool accounts (whether the Federation Account or the relevant state accounts) enabling the judiciary to independently procure what it needs, including court infrastructure, digital facilities, housing for judicial officers, vehicles, ICT systems, and other logistical and institutional upgrades. There is no justification for the Executive to continue procuring facilities and amenities for the judiciary as though the judiciary were a department or agency under executive control.

As a constitutionally recognised and co-equal arm of government, the judiciary ought to function independently, just as the Executive and the Legislature function independently of one another.

Notably, it is difficult to recall any instance where judges or legislators purchase or donate houses, vehicles, or facilities to the Executive arm of government. This is so only because the Executive is already self-sustaining, having made adequate budgetary provisions for itself in the annual budget. The judiciary must likewise be self-sustaining if it is to secure and safeguard its independence. If, across all levels and jurisdictions in Nigeria, the leadership of the judiciary cannot from its own budget procure vehicles for judges and magistrates, cannot provide critical facilities for itself, and cannot even construct official quarters for its own staff, then some troubling questions arise:

1. What has become of the judiciary’s official budget as an independent arm of government?

2. Are there no appropriations for capital projects such as residential housing for judges, development of digital court facilities, vehicles and other critical infrastructure?

3. Or has the Nigerian judiciary ceased to function as the third and independent arm of government and instead become an appendage of the Executive, so much so that the Executive now builds houses and is responsible for installing other facilities for judges or for the Judiciary?

4. Has the judiciary become so emasculated and constrained that its leaders are either unwilling or unable to demand, defend, and secure adequate financial provisions for essential capital projects through the judiciary’s own annual budgetary process?

Until these questions are honestly confronted and structurally resolved, declarations about “effective judicial independence” will remain aspirational rhetoric rather than lived institutional reality.

(Respectfullly,
Sylvester Udemezue (udems)
08109024556.
lawmentorng@gmail.com.)

By

Gov. Peter Mbah says that the New Enugu Transport Management System will create no fewer than 20,000 jobs and boost the economy of the state and country.

 

Mbah revealed this on Thursday in Enugu while inaugurating the New Enugu Transport Management System, five modern bus terminals at Holy Ghost, Gariki, Abakpa and Nsukka as well as roll out of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses.

 

He said that the projects inaugurated would spur the Gross Domestic Products (GDP) of Enugu State and the country to grow to $30 billion and $1 trillion respectively within the next six years.

According to him, the projects delivered are part of the promise we made to the people to ensure world class infrastructure, which will not only uplift the economy but dignify their living standard.

 

The governor said that the projects would provide the people with cheaper, accessible and seamless movement as other infrastructure meant to support the projects and new system are already in place.

 

“I must commend President Bola Tinubu, whose vision and wisdom to remove fuel subsidy, have led to all the projects and change to a new transport system that is based on 21st century infrastructure and service for our people.

 

“I will also appreciate the state’s commissioner for transport for all efforts to make these projects reality as well as the contractors and other people that ensure their timely delivery.

“It is a reality that transport remains the central pillar of modernisation and measure of the people’s progress; thus, touching every aspect of human life and the way the people think as well,” he said.

 

He noted that the state would roll out 2,000 hybrid vehicles to support the air conditioned and People with Disability friendly CNG buses, adding: “The CNG buses will shuttle routes leading to schools and higher institutions.”

 

“The CNG will ensure over 40 per cent reduction in household expenses on transport and will also convey residents along markets and major places along the schools/institutions routes.

 

“We are remodeling all bus stops within Enugu metropolis, built/rebuilt most roads within the metropolis and other major cities in the state and placed a modern transport e-ticketing process that checks leakages and manipulations.

 

“Few weeks ago, we launched Enugu Air, plans have reached an advanced stage on putting rail services and waterways transport; while all these projects have safety and dignity of our people as their priority,” he said.

 

Earlier, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr Obi Ozor, said that the terminals inaugurated would entertain over 10 million commuters each year; while providing a place of comfort after long journeys or interval break from long journeys.

 

Ozor explained that each of the terminals have a fully air conditioned hall and television screens, eateries, lodging accommodation, fuel station, sunscreen covered walkways, solar powered security lights/systems and surveillance cameras.

 

“These projects are a clear vision of His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah, to make Enugu State a model and point of reference in any modern infrastructure. We thank your excellency for insisting on quality and taste,” he said.

 

In a welcome address, the Chairman of Enugu North Council Area, Dr Ibekaku Onoh, thanked the governor for bringing order, aesthetic touch, employment and one-stop transport comfort with two terminals built in the Holy Ghost axis of Enugu.

 

“We quite appreciate all developmental efforts, which included: terminals, smart schools, smart type-2 primary healthcare centres, surveillance cameras and provision of security among others,” Onoh said.

 

 

 

By Nnamani Arinze Darlington

As Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah marks his second anniversary in office on May 29, 2025, Enugu State stands as a testament to visionary leadership and relentless progress. In just two years, Mbah, an accomplished entrepreneur, maritime lawyer, and financial expert, has redefined governance in the Coal City State, keeping faith in his ambitious promise to transform Enugu into a hub for investment, innovation, and quality living. With a bold target to grow the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion by 2031, Mbah’s administration has laid a solid foundation for sustainable development, earning him a place among Enugu’s most impactful governors.

*A Leader Formed for Impact*

Peter Mbah’s ascent to the governorship seat was not by accident. His illustrious career as the founder of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Ltd. demonstrated his ability to turn vision into reality, while his tenure as Chief of Staff and Commissioner for Finance under Governor Chimaroke Nnamani showcased his administrative prowess as a public servant. Armed with a law degree from the University of East London, a master’s in Maritime and Commercial Law, and an MBA from IESE Business School, Mbah brought a unique blend of intellect, experience, and pragmatism to Enugu’s leadership. His governance philosophy—centered on transparency, innovation, and inclusivity—has driven unprecedented progress in just two years.

*Mbah’s Monumental Achievements*

Governor Peter Mbah, the man behind the new enugu revolution, like Lee Kuan Yew, seems intent on reshaping Enugu State with similar foundational principles:

Since the assumption of office on May 29, 2023, Mbah had a new dawn of governance model. He is focused on health and education with its attendant projects that cut across 260 wards. Metaphorically, Mbah transcends the past, reinvents the present, and fast-forwards the future. His gubernatorial campaign tagline well articulated this: ‘Tomorrow is here’.

 

Many would recall that in his inaugural speech, Mbah reiterated his commitment to the people and his first assignment as governor was to sign an Executive Order, called the ‘Citizens’ Charter.’ it demands that he manages the people’s money, in the people’s interest. This Charter holds him and members of his team to account for the state’s funds and mandates him and his team to provide detailed information on public financial management.

 

It is on record that since his assumption of office, the governor has increased the state budget estimate from N166 billion inherited in 2023 to N521.5 billion in 2024. I’m that budget, N414.3 billion, representing 79 per cent of the entire budget, was earmarked for capital expenditure.

 

*Education as a Cornerstone*

Mbah is obsessed with revolutionizing education with the introduction of Smart Green Schools aiming to align with global standards and foster a knowledge-based economy, mirroring the educational reforms of Lee Kuan Yew.

Mbah is building a smart school across 260 wards, devoting 33 per cent of the Enugu budget to education. They are designed to build capacity, not just for the state, the country, and the African continent. Besides building the requisite human capital , which is the real wealth of a nation, this initiative prepares Enugu children to become global citizens. Mbah could not have a better vision for the future.

 

Thus, the Mbah Administration has, within 24 months, awarded the construction of 260 smart schools in the state’s 260 wards. This alone is an investment in education in each ward to the tune of about about N1.2 billion, meaning that a total sum of N312 billion has been awarded for the construction smart schools.

 

It is recalled that the state went further to allocate over 30 per cent of its N521.5bn 2024 budget and over 33 per cent of the N971bn 2025 budget to education. Enugu, under Mbah, has therefore consecutively made news as the highest in Nigeria in terms of education to budget ratio, beating the UNESCO recommendation of 15-20 percent of the public annual budget to fund education. This is rare in Africa, let alone Nigeria.

Each Smart Green School is a state-of-the-art structure, fully equipped with modern experiential tools with which the pupils from age 4 to JSS3, are taught robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, mechatronics, modern ICT and vocational skills, science and technology, mathematics, and other aspects of cognitive education. This will mould the Enugu child into a person of high modern and technological intellect to compete effectively in the global market. According to Mbah, the doors of the remaining 200 Smart Green Schools will be open to every child in Enugu free of charge by September 2025 as 60 has already been commissioned this year by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the 4th of January 2025.

*24 month as the executive governor of Enugu, Mbah stood his ground ruthlessly against criminals*

Insecurity in Enugu was at its peak when Mbah took over the reins of power. Kidnappers were on the rampage. Non-state actors imposed a compulsory Monday sit-at-home on the people, and it was usual for gunmen to drive through several local government areas to launch death crusades in the city centre and still return safely to their abodes, living bodies of gunned down security agents in their trail. To stop this, Mbah banned sit-at-home, effective June 5 2023. Instructively, despite threatening fire and brimstone, the non-state actors have been unable to launch any attack on the state since that day till date, as the Mbah administration took drastic steps to curtail their excesses, deploying technology to fight crime.

*Command and Control Centre:*

The Enugu State Command and Control Centre is a logistical novelty built via Avant-garde innovation comparable to what exists in more advanced countries.

 

The Centre, equipped with AI-driven surveillance systems, and the vehicles, embedded with advanced communication tools, are part of the Enugu Safe City Project. This isn’t just about crime-fighting; it’s about creating a sense of safety that underpins economic activity. Real-time monitoring through thousands of CCTV cameras and rapid-response capabilities address a core urban challenge: insecurity stifles growth. The Inspector-General of Police and President Tinubu have both praised these efforts, noting their role in reducing crime and enabling development. The National Security Adviser’s, Nuhu Ribadu acknowledgment of reduced crime also validates these efforts.

This is crucial to the attainment of the governor’s ambition to grow Enugu State to become a $30 billion economy in the next 4-8 Years. Relies on this foundation, as investors and residents alike need assurance of stability.

 

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has made notable strides in transforming Enugu State’s transportation sector, focusing on modern infrastructure, eco-friendly solutions, and enhanced connectivity. His administration has prioritized projects like bus terminals,CNG buses, and the ambitious Enugu Air initiative to improve mobility, affordability, and economic growth in the state.

*Bus Terminals*

Mbah’s government has advanced the development of modern transport infrastructure, with the Enugu Modern Transport Interchange known as the Enugu Central Station as a flagship project. We also have the Nsukka Bus Terminal, Garriki Bus Terminal and Abakpa Bus Terminal. These state-of-the-art transport hub, located at Holy Ghost, aims to streamline commuting, reduce congestion, and boost economic activity. The interchange is designed to integrate cutting-edge facilities, offering comfort and efficiency for travelers and businesses. Additional bus terminals are being developed to support a cohesive public transport network across the state.

*CNG Buses*

To make transportation more affordable and environmentally sustainable, Mbah’s administration has introduced CNG-powered buses. The first batch of 200 buses has been rolled out, with plans to expand the fleet. These buses aim to ease movement within Enugu, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and lower transport costs for residents. The initiative also lifted the 6 PM to 9 PM commercial bus restriction, enabling 24/7 operations, which has improved accessibility and created job opportunities for youths.

*Enugu Air*

The launch of Enugu Air is a bold move to enhance connectivity and position Enugu as a regional hub. Mbah’s government acquired aircraft, making Enugu one of only three Nigerian states with a state owned airline. The initiative aims to reduce airfares, deepen competition, and boost tourism and business travel. By operationalizing the international and cargo wings of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu Air supports Mbah’s vision of making the state an investor-friendly destination, complementing infrastructure like the revived International Conference Centre and Presidential Hotel that was moribund over the years until Mbah’s inception where he breathe life into those abandoned assets.

 

These transportation projects align with Mbah’s goal to grow Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in eight years. Improved transport infrastructure has attracted investors, created jobs, and enhanced security through better mobility for surveillance and patrols. The focus on sustainability, via CNG buses and modern terminals, also positions Enugu as a forward-thinking state. Mbah’s transportation reforms are reshaping Enugu’s landscape, making it more connected and economically vibrant for investors.

*Enugu, Now an Investment Hub:*

The administration has attracted and sealed one investment after the other, both local and foreign. It sealed a N40bn deal with Jelfah Group in 2024 towards the revitalisation of the moribund Sunrise Flour Mills, N100bn deal with Pragmatic Palms Limited (of the Diamond Stripes Group) for the ongoing revitalisation of the Enugu’s United Palm Products Ltd. Not leaving out the deal with a Danish company known as ODK tractors, which target to assemble 1,200tractors in Enugu before the end of 2025 which will compliment on the Governor’s ambition of building 260 Farm Estate to fight food insecurity and create job opportunities. Only a few weeks ago, the administration entered into a partnership with the Landmark Africa Group to revitalise and reposition the Nike Lake Resort. Among many others.

*260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres and 300 bed International Hospital:*

Mbah administration’s ongoing construction of the Primary Health Care facilities in the 260 electoral wards in the state, with 90 already completed and commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and also the ongoing construction of Enugu 300 bed International hospital is an investment that will ensure the most sustainable pathway towards achieving health security and universal health coverage for the people of Enugu State. The governor’s massive investment in the health sector of the state has distinguished him from others as a pro-health governor with a strong political commitment for health.

Like the foremost world leader, lee kuan yew, Mbah revolution is unfolding, and its disruptive innovation has already been unleashed on the landscape. Things are changing and changing fast. Mbah is a dreamer who seems to turn the words of Liberia’s ex-President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf upside down, that “if your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” The catch here is that Mbah’s dreams don’t scare him. They scare the Enugu people. He comes with a fierce sense of urgency to give meaning and energy to leadership and governance.

*The New Enugu Smart City:*

Mbah’s flagship project, the New Enugu City, exemplifies forward-thinking urban planning. Spanning 10,000 hectares, The New Enugu City project is an urban development initiative under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, aimed at transforming Enugu State into a hub for business, investment, tourism, and modern living. Covering 9,730.204 hectares across five local government areas—Enugu South, Enugu East, Enugu North, Nkanu East, and Nkanu West—the project addresses the limitations of the existing Enugu City, which has struggled with congestion, outdated infrastructure, and insufficient urban planning since its establishment as a township in 1917.

The first phase, spanning 26 square kilometers, began in October 2023. The city will feature three distinct zones; It is designed to include dedicated power systems, central sewage, high-speed internet, and zoned areas like Happy Island for residential and recreational use, Vitality Bay for corporate headquarters, and Innovation Park for industrial and tech-driven ventures. This isn’t just about roads—though the 17km dual carriageways and feeder roads are critical—but about creating a self-sustaining ecosystem. The project’s timeline, with critical stages from its 2023 start, shows a focus on measurable progress over political rhetoric.The involvement of China Communications Construction Company, a leader in smart city technologies, is handling the construction, underscores the role of private-sector partnerships in scaling public infrastructure.

*Infrastructure and Urban Renewal:*

Under Mbah’s leadership, Enugu has become a massive construction site, with dozens of urban and rural projects transforming the state. His administration has invested heavily in infrastructure, with a 2025 budget allocation of ₦213.12 billion for road construction and refurbishment. Key projects include the dualization of the Abakpa-Opi-Nsukka Road, the Enugu Airport to Ebonyi Border road, and the Owo-Amankanu-Ikem road, which opens up the state’s eastern flanks for economic development. The completion of the International Conference Centre (ICC) and a 5-star hotel are set to elevate Enugu’s status as a commercial and tourism hub.

Mbah’s fascinating and mesmerising performance has shown that Mbah does not just talk the talk; he walks the talk. Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu signifies resilience, courage, exceptionality and exudes phenomenal traits of an extraordinary disruptor.

Mbah’s personal story of resilience—from working as a shop attendant at Alaba Market to building a business empire—resonates with Enugu’s youth, inspiring hope and ambition. His commitment to inclusive governance, exemplified by partnerships with generational groups, development partners, and the private sector, ensures that every citizen has a stake in Enugu’s progress.

*Rating Mbah’s Leadership*

On a scale of excellence, Gov. Peter Mbah ranks among the finest governors in Enugu’s history. His administration’s achievements rival those of legendary leaders like Dr. Michael Okpara, whose legacy Mbah has consciously sought to emulate. Unlike incremental approaches, Mbah’s disruptive governance model has delivered rapid, impactful results, from Smart Schools to world-class healthcare and infrastructure. His ability to turn Enugu into a “massive construction site” while maintaining fiscal transparency and accountability sets him apart as a leader of unparalleled vision and competence.

 

As Mbah’s administration enters its third year, the governor remains unwavering in his commitment to making Enugu one of Nigeria’s top three states by GDP and achieving a zero percent poverty headcount index. With projects like the Enugu International Hospital, Smart Green Schools, and New Enugu City nearing completion, the state is poised for unprecedented growth. Mbah’s promise of “no slowing down” in 2025 reassures residents that the transformation witnessed so far is only the beginning.

 

His starling leadership performance in his previous public service had outstanding impact as Enugu’s commissioner for finance and economic development during Governor Chimaroke Nnamani’s tenure. As a testament to his contributions to Enugu’s fiscal operations through the strategy document he evolved, which became the operating template for the Enugu government’s development programmes, the NewsWatch magazine’s special publication of July 3, 2006, described Mbah as “a man ahead of his time.”

After that career in the public service, Mbah came back to Lagos and rented a one-room office on the mainland at Ahmed Onibudo Street, with himself, secretary and office assistant as staff. He built Pinnacle Oil and Gas Ltd from scratch. Here was a startup with a N1 million capital base that commenced active operations in 2008 from a one-room studio apartment in Lagos State, and within 14 years rose to the pole position as the market leader in the Nigerian downstream petroleum industry. That company not only controls 23% of the market today but is ahead of multinational conglomerate such as Texaco, Conoil, Mobil, and other majors. Pinnacle Oil and Gas Ltd’s net worth is now in excess of one billion US dollars.

Gov. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is an embodiment of competence, innovative and disruptive ideas made for critical times like this when the economy and security of the region and country is in need for critical thinkers. His disposition, character and values with his resilient and astounding dreams, goals and visions for Enugu State have continued to radiate beyond the state.

Mbah is a legendary achiever with a track record of goodwill, geniality and benevolence. This is why when Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah assured Ndị Enugu that he will grow the state’s economy exponentially from $4.4billion to $30 billion; when he says he will build over 10,000 km of roads; when he says he will make Enugu the most secure state in the country; when he says he will eradicate poverty and engender agric and agro-allied revolution, we were easily convinced because he is not only well prepared, but also comes with realistic and pragmatic antecedents of doing things radically differently with humongous results.

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s two years in office have transformed Enugu State into a model of progress and possibility. His achievements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, and economic growth reflect a rare blend of vision, competence, and empathy. As Enugu shines as a beacon of hope, Mbah’s legacy, as one of the state’s greatest governors, is firmly established. Ndi Enugu can look forward to a future where prosperity and opportunity define their homeland, thanks to a leader who delivers on his promises.

(Hon. Darlington Nnamani is the special assistant to the governor on Media.)

 

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The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) has hailed Gov. Peter Mbah developmental strides in Local Government Areas and grassroots as unprecedented in the history of the state.

The Chairman of ENSIEC, Prof. Christian Ngwu, gave the commendation in Enugu on Tuesday in a congratulatory message to Gov. Mbah as he marks his two years in office on May 29.

The congratulatory message is entitled: “Gov. Mbah’s Disruptive Transformation as Copied by LGA Leadership”.

Ngwu noted that since September, 2024 when Gov. Peter Mbah returned grassroots governance to the people through making ENSIEC independent, and not interfering in the council election processes, the council areas and rural people had experienced good governance.

According to him, the governor remains an objective and impactful administrator, who has provided patriotic and unrelenting service to the state, which the council areas and rural people had immensely experienced, benefitted from and enjoyed.

He said, “Gov. Mbah’s unique bottom-up approach to governance has brought the rural people to the front burner and lifted the fortunes of the state indigenes even for those living in rural council areas, where elected Chairmen and Councilors are superintendenting.

“The governor has invested heavily in security by procuring 150 vehicles fitted with 360 degree surveillance cameras, fully equipped with communication gadgets; placing survellince cameras and search lights in the whole Enugu, and building a security Command and Control Centre.

“Constructing and reconstruction of virtually all roads within Enugu metropolis and hundreds of new access roads outside the metropolis, thus making for ease of movement and opening up rural areas, local farming communities and local economic businesses.

“In education, healthcare and agriculture; everyone can spot the ongoing 260 Smart Schools; 260 Smart School Farms; 260 Smart Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres and 260 Smart Farm Estates springing up in the 260 political wards, which are in council areas.”
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Ngwu noted that the governor’s vision of acquiring 1,000 farm tractors; and distributing lots of farm inputs and seedlings was meant to turn agrarian communities into huge commercial agriculture and Agro-industrialisation centres with promises of hundreds of direct jobs.

“Today, all the 17 chairmen of the council areas in the state have copied the massive road construction trajectory of the state governor, constructing numerous asphalted roads and other earth roads to further open up rural areas.

“The chairmen are constructing roads to the ongoing smart schools, smart type-2 PHCs and smart farm estates; providing scholarships; empowerment; tech training, bore holes, electricity transformers and energizing neighbourhoods, villages and communities within council areas.

“These moves within a period of nine months of the chairmen’s assumption of office have brought employment, democratic dividends, relief, and renewed hope of better days ahead for our council areas and millions of our people residing in them,” he said.

The chairman said that on behalf of the commission, “we heartily rejoice with Your Excellency in your two years of impactful leadership, developmental vision and trajectory that have given the state a positive outlook.

“On this auspicious anniversary, we appreciate God for Your Excellency’s vision for the state especially for millions of residents and citizens of Enugu State, which is marked by amazing grace and remarkable accomplishments.

“Indeed, OUR TOMORROW IS HERE.”

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The Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, says that Gov. Peter Mbah has pushed digitalisation, innovation and tech-driven policies, programmes and projects to higher heights within two years.

Ezeh disclosed this to newsmen on Sunday in Enugu while reeling out what Gov.Mbah had achieved in the Innovation, Science and Technology
ecosystem within his two years impactful and disruptive innovation to governance.

The commissioner said that the governor, who is technology and innovation savvy, had not only believed in what Innovation, Science and Technology can do but had gone ahead to support it growth and deployment in critical aspects of the state’s socioeconomic sectors.

He noted that the governor through the ministry started by introducing robust digital infrastructure and e-governance by ensuring digital litrarcy, transparency, speed and seamlessness into government ministries, departments, commissions and all government functions.

He said, “Gov. Mbah ensured effective implementation of robust digital infrastructure, training and retraining of all government employees and functionaries, eliminating paper usage, enshrining proper information and data management, facilitating online transactions and effective citizens engagement.

“Through the Ministry, Gov. Mbah introduced Geographic Information System (GIS) to the Ministry of Lands; and the system capabilities can help the state optimise land administration processes, prevent encroachment and support sustainable development initiatives.

“The ministry partnered with Project Development Institute (PRODA) on the production of the multi-biomass briquette cooking stove, which is meant to provide solution to current energy requirements for cooking and provide solutions to current socioeconomic energy situation.

“In 2024, the state invested heavily in youth empowerment through skilling up and up-scaling in tech-innovation, through these youth empowerment programmes cultivated a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, enterprise, leadership and ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come.”

Ezeh noted that to further harness innovations from the grassroots healthwise, and encourage local research on roots and herbs, the ministry started the regulation of traditional medicine practitioners.

“This is to safeguard public health, uphold ethical standards and promote collaboration between traditional healers and modern healthcare professionals,” he said.

For the second year, Ezeh noted that the government foreseening a tech-innovation driven future set-up independent Enugu Smart Tech Ltd, which represents a groundbreaking collaboration between the e-School Africa and the Enugu State Government on the 260 Smart Schools.

He said, “This initiative effort between the state government and e-School Africa is set to revolutionise education through the provision of state-of-the-art tech devices to the 260 Smart schools currently under construction across the 260 wards in Enugu State.

“The smart schools are designed to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that students in both urban and rural areas have equal access to quality education powered by technology. The partnership with e-School Africa further strengthens this initiative by bringing in technical expertise and sustainable digital education solutions.”

The commissioner noted the ministry improved reseach, development and innovation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners through a trade fair and certification; thus, deepen and made bold move to formalise and validate traditional healing practices.

“The Traditional Medicine Practitioners’ Trade Fair was not just an exhibition—it was a reference point on how indigenous knowledge is treated in policy and practice. The fair, held in Enugu, gathered practitioners, researchers, policymakers and curious citizens.

“The key impacts included: creating credibility and trust; economic empowerment; and research catalysis; as this initiative underscores the ministry’s broader philosophy: innovation doesn’t have to mean abandoning the old — it can also mean elevating it,” he said.

Ezeh noted that the ministry completed the Coal Briquette Stove against the backdrop of Nigeria’s mounting energy crisis and environmental concerns, adding the result of the invention is a low-cost, high-efficiency stove, developed through local engineering expertise and built for mass adoption.

“The stove is a game-changer in more ways. Designed to use compressed coal dust—readily available in Enugu’s resource-rich terrain—it offers a cleaner, safer alternative to traditional firewood or inefficient stoves.

“Core benefits are environmental sustainability; affordability; and industrial application: while small-scale manufacturers and cottage industries have also begun adopting the stove, reducing their energy expenses and increasing productivity.

“More than a tool, the coal briquette stove is emblematic of Enugu’s shift towards local solutions to global challenges. It also positions the state as a potential leader in green technology across West Africa,” the commissioner said.

Ezeh said that the recent held Enugu Tech Festival captured the spirit of Mbah’s innovation agenda; even as the festival is evolving into a cornerstone of the state’s tech ecosystem—a platform for showcasing local talent, attracting investment and inspiring youths.

“The three-day unprecedented event
attended by over 15,000 participants nationwide included tech entrepreneurs, software developers, university researchers, and venture capitalists and it provided fertile ground for partnerships, networking and mentorships.

“Hackathons, pitch sessions, and innovation labs dominated the programme, producing not only buzz but tangible outputs, which included: Start-ups building momentum; educational uplift; and policy engagement.

“Even as the festival’s success signals more than public enthusiasm—it reflects the administration’s ability to convene stakeholders and accelerate grassroots innovation,” he said.

According to him, from the institutionalisation of traditional medicine to eco-friendly engineering and the cultivation of a dynamic startup ecosystem, Gov. Mbah’s vision through the ministry’s work represents a new model of national and regional development.

“Not simply reactive, but proactive. Not dependent on Federal allocations or donor aid but anchored in the power of ideas and local solutions. While challenges remain—scaling innovation, sustaining funding, and ensuring equitable digital access across rural zones—the trajectory is unmistakable.

“The foundational groundwork has been laid, and the future is being built with intentionality. The Future of tech-innovation is invented in Enugu State.

“Under the stewardship of Gov. Mbah and the ministry, Enugu State has emerged as a living laboratory for disruptive and transformative change—rooted in tradition, driven by technology, and propelled by public engagement,” he added.

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The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has hailed Gov. Peter Mbah for his innovative, transformative and impactful governance filled with infrastructural, human capital and economic development strides in Enugu State.

The Chairman of IPMAN Enugu Depot Unit, Mr Chinedu Anyaso, gave the commendation in a congratulatory message issued to newsmen in Enugu to mark Mbah’s two years in office.

Anyaso said that it was gratifying that Mbah had lived out the excellent service delivery acumen, which IPMAN members and those with IPMAN background have and he had effectively deployed this to a huge success records in just two years.

According to him, Gov. Mbah have achieved unprecedented development strides in two years and made us (every member of IPMAN) proud and be able to speak interestingly on achievements of our life patron.

“Today, filling stations and other petroleum marketing platforms sell virtually round the clock and this conducive and flourishing business environment will never be possible if not for the huge security investment and technological innovation he put in place.

“Gov. Mbah has invested heavily in security by procuring 150 vehicles fitted with 360 degree surveillance cameras, fully equipped with communication gadgets; as well as placed survellince cameras and search lights in the whole Enugu and building a security monitoring control centre.

“Constructing and reconstruction of virtually all roads within Enugu metropolis and hundreds of new access roads outside the metropolis to make for ease of movement and opening up rural areas, local farming communities and local economic businesses.

“Today, Enugu is secured, motorable and livable; making it the first choice destination for leisure and tourism as well as international conferences and engagements attracting hundred of high networth individuals,” he said.

 

In education and healthcare, the chairman said that everyone can spot the ongoing 260 Smart Schools; 260 Smart School Farms; 260 Smart Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres springing up in the 260 political wards in the state.

He said that in agriculture, we have the tractor assembly plant rolling out 1,000 farm tractors and will train youths on tractor’s repair and maintenance as well as establishment of 260 Smart Farm Estates and lots of farm inputs and improved seedlings distributed already to farmers.

“Thousands have enrolled and more thousands are waiting to be enrolled and join the ongoing technological soft skill and upscale skill training, which holds lots of promises of future engagements and livelihoods for the teeming youths.

“Gov. Mbah has virtually touched all sectors i.e.urban water supply and reticulation within Enugu; culture and tourism development; rural empowerment and welfare; and put in place digital-driven taxation system.

“Through people-oriented laws and Executive Orders opened up the state for electricity market, farm produce and aviation space among others,” he noted.

The chairman, however, called on Gov. Mbah to sustain the giant and enviable strides on development, which had scaled up the state’s ranking in the human and capital development indexes.

“On behalf of the entire members of the IPMAN Enugu Depot Unit, we wish you well. We will continue to pray for your sound health and wisdom as well as progress of Enugu State.

“May God’s Light always illuminate your path as you continue to move Enugu State in the path of fast progress,” he added.