Tag: Mbah

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The Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru, says Gov. Peter Mbah has deepened the vision to make Enugu State export and commercial agriculture hub in Africa.

Ubru said this on Friday in Enugu while reeling out the achievements of the laid down template and vision of Gov. Mbah in agriculture and agro-industrialisation within his two years in office.

He said that the ministry had paintakenly followed the template of Gov. Mbah to use agriculture “as the basic driver in moving the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Enugu State from $4.4 billion to $30 billion by 2031”.

Ubru said that from the onset before he assumed office as a commissioner; the governor “totally and carefully reviewed policies and strategies” as well as put in place Executive Orders and laws to ensure crops, livestock, fishery production and agro-industrialisation.

According to him, ministry started wiith an ambitious target of acquiring 300,000 hectares of farmland for agricultural purposes especially for developing large scale commercial farming.

He said that so far, a total of 187,934 hectares across various locations in the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state had been acquired; and more land to be acquired from willing communities across the 17 LGAs.

“Continuous update and registration of farmers data on all agricultural value chains across the 17 LGAs in Enugu State. This is to ensure that Enugu State has a robust and verified data of all farmers within the state.

“Over 67,000 farmers’ data have been captured featuring the geo coordinates, farm sizes, specialisations, value-chain etc of these farmers and their farms. With over 80 farmer co-operatives registered so far,” he said.

Ubru said that within two years, Enugu State had become highest cassava producer in the country as the state had committed itself to it Cassava Ethanol Bio-Refining Project, which would be a bank able gain changer export-wise in the near future.

He said, “Besides other various programmes with development partners, we are excited about the private sector led, Federal, State and Local Government-enabled Private-Public-Partnership on Bio-economy focusing on Cassava-Bioethanol Value-Chain end-to-end development.

“This project starts from seed multiplication to “out-grower/in-grower” production with 100 per cent off-take; LGA processing clusters; Biotechnology Industrial Park; zero waste conversion of cassava peels to animal feed.

“It will also produce zero post-harvest losses through 100 per cent off-take and mobile cassava processing etc and all the way to Cassava Ethanol Bio-Refining.

“Currently, 460 hectares of land have been cultivated with cassava with the construction of the industrial park ongoing at Egede/Affa communities in Udi LGA; and construction and installation of processing equipment at the Bioethanol Industrial Park at Egede.”

The commissioner said that the Special Agro-Industrialisation Processing Zone (SAPZ) project would be established across the three senatorial districts of the State namely; Enugu North, Enugu East and Enugu West.

He said that the SAPZ project’s pilot phase is starting at Owo Community in Nkanu East LGA with 1,101 hectares of land.

“The Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Feasibility studies have been conducted to enable funding partners African Development Bank (AFDB) and others conclude arrangement to release of funds for the second phase of the programme.

“The report of the ESIA and Feasibility studies have been received and forwarded to AFDB.

“Given the information from the AfDB and SAPZ National Coordination Secretariat, Enugu State met the minimum requirement and is scheduled to receive funding for Phase II of the SAPZ programme after the AfDB Board haved approval in the middle of 2025.”

He said that state had envisioned
establishment of the 260 farm estates across 260 political wards in the state and increase in agriculture productivity by 2000 per cent, as it had planned creation of 52,000 direct jobs and excess of 100,000 indirect jobs.

“A pilot phase of this project has commenced at Akpofu community with clearing ongoing within communities in Udi, Enugu East and Igboeze North and Igbo-Etiti Local Government Areas among other council area,” he said.

Ubru noted that the government had pledged to support commercial agriculture by procurement of 1,000 tractors and implements for mechanisation, adding: “100 tractors have been received, another 100 on the way, while remaining 800 will be assembled in Enugu.”

On cash crop, he said that the state was investing heavily on cocoa farming, cashew farming and cotton production as well as vegetable and species production in commercial quantities for purpose of local consumption and export.

“We have established fish and vegetable farm clusters at Owo after site survey have been done. Architectural design-cum-bill of quantity in progress; and did success pilot of greenhouse technology farming and encouraged LGs, institutions and individuals to participate fully in greenhouse farming.

“On December 8, 2023, following His Excellency’s approval ‘‘Enugu Rice’’ Brand was launched with three LGAs supporting in off-taking paddy rice from farmers that resulted to 150 tons of milled rice supplied to the Ministry by local processors.

“These local processing infrastructure and equipment are product of interventions by the state and the donor agencies such as IFAD-VCDP, APPEALS, FADAMA-CARE and ATASP-1 among others.

“Through this donor agencies in collaboration with the state government, the state have also provided irrigation infrastructure and equipment; agro-inputs and improved seedlings as well as agronomy, climate smart farming and other agricultural training to farmers,” he said.

The commissioner said that the state had established seed gallery and bank; its produce cities are underway and recent partnered with the state’s Ministry of Education to add Smart School Farms to all new 260 Smart Schools in its catch-them-young programme.

“All these and more are meant to increase productivity, increase food availability, job creation, increase produce production as well as positioning the state as agriculture off-taking point, where there is value-addition, proper packaging and export hub,” he noted.

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The Enugu State Government says it will continue to strengthen “One Health Approach” to deal with existing and emerging animal health, human health and environmental health challenges confronting the state.

Gov Peter Mbah of Enugu State gave the assurance on Monday in Enugu at a two-day training on Disease Monitoring and Investigation Using the One Health Risk Communication Approach and the National Action Plan on Health Security (NAPHS) Implementation.

The training, which is being organised by the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) Coordination Center, Enugu State, was meant for One Health Officers in Enugu State.

 

Represented by the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru, the governor said that the training marked an important step in the ongoing efforts of the government to strengthen animal, human and environmental health services.

According to him, the training will also improve disease surveillance, and enhance multisectoral collaboration through the “One Health Approach”.

“The theme of this workshop: Disease Monitoring and Investigation using One Health Risk Communication and Implementation Approach and the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) is both timely and strategic.

“The global rise in zoonotic diseases and public health threats has shown us clearly that we must break down the barriers between humans, animals and environmental health systems.

“The One Health Approach framework offers a unified and collaborative solution to these complex challenges.

“Veterinary officers, para-veterinary professionals, and community animal health workers are vital frontline defenders in this system.

“Your ability to detect, report and respond to animal health threats not only protects livestock and rural livelihoods but also plays a critical role in preventing larger public health crises to both animals and humans,” he said.

Mbah also commend the Federal Government through L-PRES Coordination Center for its continued commitment to building capacity and strengthening the livestock sector.

“I thank the facilitators, technical partners and participants for your dedication to this cause. I urge participants to make the most of this training; share experiences, embrace the tools and strategies being offered, and take knowledge back to communities”.

Speaking, Dr Ifeyinwa Nnajieze, Enugu State Project Coordinator of L-PRES, said that the training would focus on the critical importance of collaboration and integration in addressing health challenges that transcend human, animal and environmental domains.

Nnajieze noted that the “One Health Approach” recognised that human health, animal health and environmental health are intricately linked, adding that by working together, “we can better understand and address complex health issues.”

“The training is to enhance the collaborative capacity of veterinary officers, para-veterinarians, community animal health and husbandry workers in identifying, monitoring and investigating potential disease outbreaks in animals, with a focus on interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.”

Nnajieze noted that the training would revive state level Occupational Health technical working groups that cut across the tripartite; and expose participants to their basic requirements and responsibilities as clearly contained in the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS 01).

“I appreciate Gov. Mbah for approving the training. I thank the participants for their contributions and state government dedication to the “One Health Approach” in shaping a healthier future for Enugu State Livestock sector,” she said.

Dr John Maiye, Team Lead of National Technical Working Group on L-PRES, noted that the “One Health Approach” had become necessay as “about 75 per cent of diseases that affects human health is from animal.”

Maiye said that the approach focuses on an holistic and coordinated treatment of health issues both in animal and human through human health, animal healt and environmental health sectors.

 

“The One Health Approach calls for interface between human health, animal health and environmental health officers to eradicate zoonotic diseases, which affects animal and human population; thus, promoting inclusive and general health,” he said.

 

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The Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has challenged youths in South-East on tech skills and innovation as future economy drivers and entrepreneurs.

Tijani said this on Wednesday while addressing mamoth crowd of youths that attended first Enugu Tech Festival 2025, which is a three-day event tagged: “Coal to Code” being organised by the Enugu State Government.

The minister, who described the festival as the biggest technology conference that had ever happened in Nigeria, noted that technology and innovation was already creating a major leap for Nigeria’s determination to build a robust digital economy.

The minister lauded Enugu State under Gov. Peter Mbah, for moving from policy to progress and concrete utilisation of technology in bringing solutions to various challenges as well as leading the tech revolution in Nigeria.

He said that the festival fitted into the agenda of the Federal Government, having recognised that the future of digital economy in Nigeria would not only be built in Abuja, but would instead be co-created across all states.

“Enugu is showing how this should and will be done. I have never, never been to a conference on technology in Nigeria that is this big. I founded the first technology hub in Nigeria, the very first in Nigeria.

“So, I know a thing or two when technology people gather. I can assure you that today, you are part of history because we have never seen anything this big in Nigeria before.

“There is something powerful about your state: the energy, the ambition, the possibilities. Just two years ago, only a few people could imagine this kind of tech momentum. But today, Enugu has not just imagined, Enugu is building it.

“Under two years, we have seen investment in digital infrastructure, and the innovation ecosystem of the state,” he said.

According to him, what is happening today in Enugu is part of something bigger.

“We are now witnessing a generational rise, not one where people complain and protest, but one where creativity is used to shape the future. Not just with passion, but with precision.

“Progress is not automatic, but needs all of us. It needs the government to continue to be brave. It needs the private sector to invest deeper. It needs mentors, builders, teachers, and it needs leaders,” he added.

Speaking, Gov. Mbah highlighted how his administration had invested in technology to revolutionise security, land administration and education among others.

The governor noted that the festival was part of his government’s wider efforts to build the youth of the state into wealth creators and highly sought-after workforce of tomorrow’s workplace.

“The power of technology and innovation and what we can accomplish is something that I want the youths to be mindful of.

“If you look at the way things are being done in the world today, we are now talking about an era where people just sit down with great ideas, create platforms where they begin to essentially benefit from that platform.

“An example is the Uber that came and disrupted the city taxi without owning a key. Today, they provide by far the largest traffic just by creating a platform.

“You can extend that to Airbnb. Without owning a key, these guys have disrupted the business of those who own several brick and mortar houses,” he said.

According to him, you can also extend that to Tesla. That is the power of technology. This shows essentially that technology is where the future is.

Corroborating, the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, said that the festival, which would become an annual event, underscored a paradigm shift from the old Enugu known for coal to one that has become a rising force in Nigeria’s tech-driven future.

 

“For decades, our identity was built on coal, a resource that powered Nigeria’s industrial rise. But today, we stand in a different kind of power—the power of knowledge, innovation, and technology,” he said.

 

Also at the event were the Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Chief Uchenna Ugwu; former Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Barth Nnaji; Chairman of Zinox Technical, Stan Ekeh; and the Group Managing Director, Afrinvest, Dr Ike Chioke, among others.

 

By Flowerbudnews
Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State says urgent need for the diversification of Nigeria’s economy from mono oil economy can be achieved through the emerging information technology.

Mbah said this Wednesday while inaugurating the South East Zonal Office of the National Information Technology Development Agency, (NITDA) in Enugu.

The governor said that there was compelling need to diversify the economy which he believed that “investment into the Information Technology space would do the magic.”

He also said that the gesture of opening NITDA office in Enugu would open more horizon for the teeming Nigerian youths and move the country closer to their dream of diversifying the economic stream.

“The need and urgency to diversify our economy, both at national and sub-national levels, has never been more compelling than now and there are few sectors that hold the opportunities for us to accomplish that like the Information Technology space,” he said.

He said that merely having the opportunities without bringing them to fruition would not bring about the desired need to diversify the economy and the new NITDA office was a move in the right direction to actualise the dream.

“It is an opportunity for our teeming youths to have a platform to improve themselves to a life long skills set that will prepare them for the dynamic global world space today and tomorrow,” he said.

Speaking, Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said that the Enugu Zonal Office would serve as
“a permanent bridge between national policy and local potential.”

Tijani said that inauguration of the NITDA Regional Office in Enugu was more than the opening of a building; adding: “It is the establishment of a permanent bridge between national policy and local potential.”

According to him, this in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President to reposition Nigeria for economic fortunes.

“It is a strategic move under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu – a commitment to decentralising opportunity, deepening inclusion, and unlocking the full power of Nigeria’s digital economy across every region.

“By placing NITDA closer to the people right here in the South-East, we are saying clearly: no region should have to wait for innovation to reach them. Innovation must grow with them,” he said.

The minister explained that the NITDA office would serve as an engine room for digital skills development, through programmes like the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative.

“There will be support for startups and indigenous tech solutions; regulatory advisory, to help businesses thrive within the frameworks that protect Nigerians, and closer partnerships with state governments, academia, and the private sector,” he added.

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The Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani and Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, have been penciled down to attend the first Enugu International Tech Festival.

The over 5,000 participants anticipated Enugu International Tech Festival 2025, which will hold from May 7 to May 9 at the prestigious International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu, is themed: “Coal to Code”.

The Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Lawrence Ezeh, in a pre-event press briefing on Monday in Enugu, said that both ministers would deliver keynote addresses on Federal Government policies fostering regional ecosystems.

Ezeh noted that apart from tech giants – Microsoft, Google and Amozans – great names in African tech ecosystems, which included Zinox Group Founder, Stan Ekeh; and eminent scientist and former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji, would attend the festival.

The commissioner noted that business mogul turned investor, Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, would be around to share his practical tech-business experience as well.

He added that the presence of these great tech-innovative personalities and companies show the event’s significance in positioning Enugu as a burgeoning tech hub in Africa.

According to him, the tech convergence is being hosted under the auspices of Gov. Peter Mbah, whose administration has placed digital transformation and youth empowerment at the heart of its development strategy.

He said, “Over three days, Enugu will be electrified by a dynamic blend of keynote speeches, panel sessions, technical workshops, investment matchmaking in the Deal Room, and cutting-edge exhibitions.

 

“The programme aims to connect start-ups, scale-ups and innovators with investors, while opening channels for corporate partnerships, venture financing and collaborative alliances in Research and Development (R&D).

 

“Tech evangelist Harry Tomi Davies, entrepreneur and tech Incubator Founder, Kingsley Eze; and blockchain Innovator, Ugochukwu Aronu, are among headline speakers. Others include Napa Onwusah and Patrick Asuama, each contributing unique insights into Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.”

The commissioner noted that the
“Coal to Code” theme of the festival draws a powerful metaphor for transformation; adding: “Once a hub for coal mining, Enugu is now positioning itself as the Africa’s digital engine room.”

 

“The narrative is being shaped not only through dialogue and vision casting, but through concrete initiatives to build infrastructure, digital skills and innovation-driven enterprises,” he said.

 

Ezeh said that participants to the festival would be coming from across Nigeria and the Diaspora; adding that the event would spotlight indigenous talent, tech-enabled Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and student innovators.

 

“Beyond networking, it offers a tangible springboard for building the next generation of digital companies and attracting venture capitals into the region.

 

“As Nigeria accelerates its digital economy drive, Enugu is staking its claim as a serious contender on the world tech map — not just as a host, but as a builder of the future.

 

“The Enugu International Tech Festival 2025 may well be the spark that transforms ambition into action in the Nigeria’s innovation journey.

 

“For more updates and registration details, visit www.enugutechfest.com,” he added.

 

 

By Darlington Nnamani

FLOWERBUDNEWS:    In a remarkable achievement that underscores the transformative power of purposeful governance, Enugu State has been ranked the third safest state in Nigeria, according to the latest report by SBM Intelligence, a leading Africa-focused market and security intelligence gathering firm.

This prestigious ranking is no mere coincidence; it is the fruit of deliberate, strategic, and unwavering investments in modern security infrastructure and human development by the administration of Gov. Peter Mbah.

Under his visionary leadership, Enugu State is not only emerging as a beacon of safety but also as a model of progressive governance in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

Gov. Mbah’s ascent to the helm of Enugu State in 2023 marked the beginning of a bold and ambitious agenda to reposition the state as a premier destination for investment, tourism, and quality living. Central to this vision has been his administration’s relentless focus on enhancing security—a critical pillar for sustainable development.

Within months of assuming office, Mbah took decisive steps to dismantle longstanding challenges, including ending the disruptive sit-at-home order that once stifled economic activity in the South-East. His administration’s innovative approach to security has since redefined the state’s safety profile.

The establishment of the Enugu State Command and Control Centre stands as a cornerstone of Mbah’s security revolution. Equipped with cutting-edge artificial intelligence and surveillance cameras strategically deployed across the state, this state-of-the-art facility has empowered security agencies to monitor, respond to, and prevent crimes with unprecedented efficiency.

Complementing this technological leap is the deployment of over 150 patrol vehicles fitted with advanced surveillance equipment, ensuring rapid response and comprehensive coverage of Enugu’s urban and rural areas. These interventions, described as “logistical novelties” comparable to systems in more advanced nations, have significantly bolstered public safety and investors’ confidence in Enugu State.

The SBM Intelligence report’s recognition of Enugu as the third safest state is a resounding endorsement of these efforts. It reflects the tangible outcomes of Mbah’s commitment to leveraging technology and collaboration to create a secure environment where citizens can thrive and businesses can flourish.

As Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, noted during the 14th Anyaoku Lecture Series hosted in Enugu, Mbah’s leadership style is a catalyst for rapid development, setting a standard that could transform Nigeria if replicated under a truly federal system.

While the safety ranking is a headline-grabbing achievement, it is only one facet of Gov. Mbah’s broader mission to uplift the people of Enugu State. His administration’s focus on human development is evident in its massive investments across education, infrastructure, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Sectors that are intricately linked to the state’s overall progress.

In education, Mbah has championed initiatives that prioritize access, innovation, and technological advancement. His administration’s emphasis on equipping youths with digital skills aligns with the demands of the 21st-century economy.

Infrastructure development has also been a hallmark of Mbah’s tenure. From the commissioning of mind-blowing projects by President Bola Tinubu in January 2025 to the ongoing expansion of pipe-borne water projects—unmatched by any other state in Nigeria—Enugu is witnessing an infrastructural renaissance.

These projects are not just about physical transformation; they are about creating an enabling environment for economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents.

Tinubu himself praised Mbah for taking Enugu on “the path of 21st-century development,” a sentiment echoed by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other national leaders.

Mbah’s economic foresight is further exemplified by his strategic positioning of Enugu as a conferencing and tourism hub. The newly constructed Enugu State International Conference Centre, which hosted the 14th Chief Emeka Anyaoku Lecture Series, and the upcoming National Convention o the Nigerian Bar Association are testaments to the state’s growing reputation as a safe and vibrant destination.

These events not only showcase Enugu’s beauty and hospitality but also drive economic activity, creating jobs and opportunities for local communities.

Gov. Mbah’s success is not a product of chance but of a distinguished career marked by excellence and strategic thinking.

A lawyer, financial analyst, and former CEO of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Limited, Mbah brought a wealth of private-sector experience to public office. His tenure as Chief of Staff and Commissioner for Finance under Governor Chimaroke Nnamani (1999–2007) equipped him with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of governance.

Inspired by a passion for societal development, Mbah transitioned from corporate success to political leadership, determined to make a lasting impact on Enugu State.

Despite being a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mbah has earned bipartisan praise, with President Tinubu (of the All Progressives Congress) lauding his commitment to development.

Enugu’s ranking as the third safest state is more than a statistic rating; it is a clarion call for other states to emulate Mbah’s model of governance.

His administration’s blend of technological innovation, strategic investment, and people-centered policies offers a blueprint for addressing Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges. As Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia, Jnr, aptly stated, Mbah’s leadership is “awe-inspiring,” challenging other governors to prioritize the welfare of their people.

As Enugu State basks in its well-deserved recognition, Governor Mbah remains focused and unfazed, committed to building a future where the state not only maintains its safety ranking but also becomes a global model for development. His administration’s plans to make Enugu the conferencing capital of Africa and attract three million annual tourists are ambitious yet achievable, given the foundation already laid by Gov. Mbah.

Ndi’Enugu are witnessing the dawn of a new era—one defined by security, progress, and unity. As the state soars “from great heights to greater heights,” in the words of Nwafor, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah stands tall as a servant-leader whose irrevocable commitment to human development is reshaping Enugu and inspiring a nation.

Enugu’s ranking as the third safest state is just one of many milestones under Mbah’s leadership. The state is achieving firsts in infrastructure, education, and economic development, earning accolades as a hub of progress.

From the Enugu Unity Christmas Park where the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, described Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State as a “rare gift to the nation” and stated that Enugu is “the luckiest state” to have him as governor.

During a visit to Enugu on December 8, 2024, where she launched the ‘25 Days of Christmas Festival’ by illuminating 500,000 lights at the Naira Triangle and Unity Park, Musawa praised Mbah’s innovative transformation of the state within his first 18 months in office.

She commended his rapid development strides, particularly in constructing Smart Green Schools and tourism, noting that his innovations would be remembered in Nigeria’s history and have set a path for other governors to follow and to hosting the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association’s National Convention, Enugu is showcasing its beauty, peace, and industry to the world.

Looking ahead, Mbah remains focused on his vision of making Enugu the conferencing capital of Africa and a top tourism destination. His administration’s strategic investments in security and infrastructure are laying the foundation for sustainable growth, ensuring that Enugu remains a beacon of opportunity for generations to come.

The SBM Intelligence report is a call to other states to emulate Enugu’s model of intentional and people-centered governance. Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership proves that with vision, action, and commitment, transformation is possible.

As Enugu continues to shine, Ndi’Enugu and Nigerians everywhere can take pride in a leader who is building a legacy of progress, safety, and prosperity. It is also a clarion call for Nigerians to come to Enugu State and invest for their return of investment is Irrevocably Guaranteed.

(Nnamani is the Special Assistant to Gov. Mbah on Media)

 

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No fewer than 96 para-veterinary graduates from the Enugu State Veterinary School and Investigation Centre, Achi, have been inducted and issued with certificates of operation.

 

The induction was done during the Enugu State 2025 World Veterinary Day Celebration with the theme: “Animal Health Takes A Team”.

Declaring the event open in Enugu on Monday, Gov. Peter Mbah acknowledged the relentless commitment and excellence of veterinary professionals across the globe.

 

Represented by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru, the governor said that the theme: “Animal Health Takes a Team” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of collaboration required to secure the health of animals, communities and the environment.

According to him, in Enugu State, we firmly believe that building robust animal health systems is a team effort; a synergy among veterinarians, para-veterinarians, policymakers, farmers, academics, and community stakeholders.

“In Enugu State; together, we are driving a transformative agenda that bolsters not only animal health but also our nation’s agriculture and food security,” he said.

 

The governor appreciated the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), its President and Council for hosting this year’s national celebration in Enugu, while congratulating the newly-inducted and certified para-veterinary professionals.

Mbah lauded the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) for inaugurating the Veterinary Practice and Premises Regulations Committee, adding that the committee would play a critical role in ensuring veterinary practices and facilities meet highest standards, quality and accountability in Enugu State.

The governor highlighted some of the numerous transformative projects initiated under his administration which had significantly revolutionised agricultural and veterinary systems in the state.

 

“The Enugu State Anti-Open Grazing and Ranching Control Acts which have been signed into law; thus, positioning the state at the forefront of organised and sustainable livestock farming so as to put a permanent end to the issues of farmers-herders crisis.

 

“Thus, de-risking the entire livestock value chain in the state for potential investors.

“Revamping of the School of Veterinary and Investigation Centre, Achi in Oji River LGA through which the state have elevated veterinary education and training to international standards.

 

“I am happy that today the Veterinary Council of Nigeria has recognised the State Government’s efforts in this direction by certifying our para-veterinary graduates.

 

“Upgrading and transforming of the State Veterinary Clinic facility into a state-of-the-art Artificial Insemination Centre and Diagnostic Centre, thereby enhancing our capabilities in livestock reproduction and disease management,” he said.

According to the governor, construction of the South-East Regional Veterinary Reference Hospital which is a world bank assisted initiative in partnership with the state government coordinated by the L-Press Team.

“This pioneering project is set to become a regional benchmark for excellence in veterinary care,” he said.

The governor said that his administration had deployed strategic initiatives to revamp the entire agricultural value chain in the state.

“These initiatives are not only modernising our systems but have also paved the way for sustainable development and improved livelihoods for our people,” he added.

Earlier, the President, Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Moses Arokoyo, appreciated the Enugu State Government for accepting to host the event and that the state was chosen based on its friendly and people-focused agricultural programmes and policies.

 

Arokoyo, represented by Dr Godwin Abonyi who also doubles as the Chairman of the event, said that the event is an annual one aimed at sensitising the society on the importance of veterinary medicine in national development.

 

He noted that the association had made remarkable strides in partnership with institutions like NAFDAC, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and key players in the livestock and pharmaceutical industries.

“We have strengthened our advocacy for better health policies, improved access to veterinary drugs and empowering the next generation of Veterinarians.

“However, the association decries a situation of poor unemployment opportunities for young veterinarians and appeal to both the Federal and State Governments to address this issue of unemployment.

 

“I will appeal to both our partners, government and stakeholders to continue investing in the veterinary sector as a healthy animal population means a healthy human population.

 

“We should break the isolation silos, share knowledge and build systems that reflect the reality that animal health is human health,” he said.

 

The President, Veterinary Council of Nigeria, Prof. Matthew Adamu, with the acting Registrar of the Council, Dr Fadipe Oladotun, inducted and certified the 96 new para-veterinary graduates.

They urged the graduates to abide by the oath they had taken and be positive example and good ambassador of the profession.

The event was organised by the Enugu State Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-industrialisation in collaboration with the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association.

 

By Flowerbudnews
The Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr Patrick Ubru, says the state seeks and value collaborative partnership meant to harness its vast agricultural potentials and value-chain.

 

Ubru said this on Wednesday in Enugu when the South Saharan Social Development Organization (SSDO), an NGO, led by its Executive Director, Dr Stanley Ilechukwu, paid him a courtesy call in his office.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the state’s Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation to working with agriculture-focussed NGOs and organisations to improve agriculture and encourage abundant food production for local consumption and export.

 

According to him, agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, and in Enugu State, we have many families both in urban and rural areas depend on one form of agricultural practice or the other for their daily livelihoods.

 

“Our agriculture-loving governor, His Excellency, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, is currently empowering real farmers, who are duly registered and verified by the ministry, with inputs, new knowledge and technique to enhance agricultural and make it a big business,” he said.

 

Earlier, Ilechukwu said that the organisation sought collaboration of the ministry in working together to bring sustainable agriculture solutions to farmers especially those in localities within the state.

He pledged his organisation contribution to the ongoing empowerment of farmers by the state government meant to enhance agricultural techniques, ensure bumper harvest and food security for residents of the state and entire country.

 

“As climate change continues to threaten food production, SSDO remains dedicated to driving impactful initiatives alongside the Enugu State Government. Together, we can secure a thriving future for agriculture in the region.

 

“The sustainable agriculture solution will focus on agroecology, climate resilience, and policy reforms, which are key strategies for improving food security,” the SSDO boss said.

 

He noted that the partnership between his organisation and the state government through the ministry would mark a major step in building a sustainable agricultural system that benefits both farmers, broader community and entire state.