As Governor Mbah Marks Two Years Of Vision And Action
_By Hyginus Odo_
As Governor Peter Mbah marks two years in office, Enugu State stands as a testament to bold vision and decisive action. From road construction to healthcare, education, and economic reforms, his administration is redefining governance and laying the foundation for a more prosperous, modern, and inclusive Enugu.
Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has, in just two years, redefined leadership in Enugu State through ambitious reforms, bold infrastructural renewal, and an unflinching focus on human capital development tagged Disruptive Innovation. From education and health to roads, housing, and security, the governor’s policies have sparked a silent revolution that is steadily transforming the fortunes of the state and its people.
One of the boldest steps taken by the Mbah administration is the free and compulsory education policy from primary to junior secondary school, which has brought about 300,000 out-of-school children back to the classroom. This game-changing initiative is supported by the ongoing construction of 260 smart schools across the state, equipped with digital learning tools, teachers’ quarters, and tech-based classrooms, aligning with the administration’s vision to build a skilled, future-ready workforce.
In the area of infrastructure and road development since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has embarked on an ambitious infrastructure agenda, initiating the construction and rehabilitation of roads across Enugu State to boost connectivity, commerce, and urban renewal. In his first year, he flagged off the construction of 71 urban roads, notably the dualization of the 40km Owo-Ubahu-Amankanu-Neke-Ikem Road and the development of New Enugu City roads, including a 17km dual carriageway and feeder roads. In August 2024, he approved for the construction of 141 urban roads and 20 rural roads, with major projects such as the 41.3km Abakpa Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road, the Penocks Junction–Nike Lake–T-Junction Flyover, and the Nomeh-Mburubu-Nara Road, which features two bridges.
Governor Mbah’s Road projects also emphasize rural development, with strategic routes like the Amagunze-Ihuokpara-Ugbawka Road (with a bridge), Obinagu Udi-Isu Awa Road, and the Nsukka-Ibagwa-Ogurute-Ette Road aimed at enhancing market access, improving mobility, and stimulating agricultural growth in local communities.
These developments reflect a broader commitment to equitable infrastructure spread and sustainable development throughout Enugu State, positioning it as a model for regional growth and modernization.
Healthcare delivery has seen unprecedented reform with the construction of 300 bed capacity international hospital at Independent Layout and the groundbreaking Enugu State Medical and Hospital Infrastructure Renewal Programme (ESMHIRP). This initiative aims to construct 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres—one in each ward—with solar-powered facilities, medical staff quarters, and telemedicine capabilities.
Additionally, the complete reconstruction and re-equipping of general hospitals such as those in Awgu, Udi, and Enugu-Ezike are advancing toward a healthier, more resilient population.
In the water sector, the administration achieved a long-awaited milestone by restoring daily water supply to Enugu metropolis—over 120 million litres per day—after two decades of dry taps. The rehabilitation of the Ninth Mile Crash Programme and the installation of 12 solar-powered boreholes and booster stations have made this possible, fulfilling a major campaign promise and restoring confidence in public utilities.
Governor Mbah’s focus on security and digital governance has resulted in the launch of a smart city command and control centre, complete with CCTV surveillance and emergency response systems, creating safer urban and rural environments. This aligns with broader efforts to digitize government operations and increase transparency, efficiency, and accessibility of public services.
In the agriculture and rural development sectors, the state has initiated the construction of 100 rural roads totaling 81 kilometers, facilitating easier access to markets and urban centres. The revamping of agriculture through Public-Private-Partnerships (PPPs) and the land preparation programmes are positioning Enugu as a hub for agribusiness investment and food security.
The transportation and urban renewal efforts are evident in the rebranding of public transit with the launch of Compressed Natural Gass (CNG) – powered buses and smart bus terminals – Holy Ghost, Gariki, Abakpa and Nsukka terminals. The remodeling of major parks and markets, as well as the expansion of digital infrastructure in Enugu city, reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban planning and environmental sustainability.
Enugu Air, the state-owned airline initiative launched by Governor Peter Mbah, marks a significant stride in enhancing regional connectivity and economic development. In partnership with Xejet, Enugu Air will commence operations from now with two Embraer E170 jets, aiming to serve key Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano. The airline plans to expand its fleet to over six aircraft by the end of 2025, potentially extending routes to West and Central Africa. This venture not only improves air travel accessibility for Enugu residents but also positions the state as a burgeoning aviation hub, fostering tourism, trade, and job creation in the region.
The Enugu Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Centre has empowered thousands of entrepreneurs through training, funding, and digital literacy programmes, especially targeting women and youth. These initiatives are contributing to job creation, financial inclusion, and long-term economic growth.
Other sectors such as housing, culture and tourism reflecting on the International Conference Center, Hotel Presidential, among others, and sports development including the International Enugu City Marathon involving African Athletes, have also received attention. The resettlement of residents from flood-prone areas, the revival of sports facilities across local government areas showcases a holistic development strategy.
As Governor Peter Mbah marks his second year in office, the scorecard is unmistakable: a visionary leader delivering on promises with speed, integrity, and purpose. Enugu is on a new trajectory—one defined by bold ideas, practical action, and a people-first approach to governance.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, while he is presently on his M.Sc programme also in Mass Communication, at National Open University of Nigeria.
He was the NUJ Chairman, Enugu state who handed over to the Caretaker Committee currently in the Council.
samowailo@gmail.com
