Dream On Wheels: Innovative Genius Shines At Enugu Bus Terminal Inauguration
…As Governor Mbah Rewards #1m To Spark Talent
Editor
In a remarkable display of innovation and community spirit, the recent inauguration of five bus terminals and the introduction of 100 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses by Governor Peter Mbah in Enugu State took an unexpected yet inspiring twist. The event, held on Thursday, (15/8/25) at the Enugu State Capital, not only signified a leap towards sustainable public transportation but also celebrated the brilliance of local talent with a generous reward from the State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah.
The event attracted hundreds of attendees, including government officials, stakeholders in the transportation industry, and enthusiastic citizens eager to witness the transformation of their local transport system. With CNG buses promising a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional fuels, the atmosphere was charged with optimism about the future of public transport in Enugu. However, it was the recognition of local innovator Emmanuel Obi that truly stole the spotlight.
Emmanuel, a 23-year-old engineering graduate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, captured the hearts of the audience when Governor Mbah presented him with a stunning award of one million naira. This recognition was not merely a monetary gift; it was an acknowledgment of Emmanuel’s exceptional ingenuity in building a working model of a standard moving vehicle. Governor Mbah hailed him as “a beacon of hope for young innovators in Nigeria” and urged others to follow in his footsteps.
The governor’s words reflected a growing recognition in Nigeria of the importance of homegrown solutions to transportation challenges. “We cannot solely rely on imported technology,” Dr Mbah emphasised during his speech. “We must invest in our local talents to drive innovation and stimulate our economy. Today, Emmanuel’s ingenuity is a prime example of what our youth can achieve when given the right support.”
Emmanuel’s journey began in his childhood garage, where he would often dismantle household appliances, fascinated by how things worked. His passion for engineering blossomed during his university days where he participated in numerous competitions, honing his skills and learning the intricacies of automotive design. The vehicle he presented was not only functional; it featured eco-friendly technology designed to minimise pollution—an embodiment of his commitment to sustainable engineering.
The audience erupted in applause as Emmanuel took to the stage, overwhelmed with emotion. “This award isn’t just for me; it’s for every young person in Enugu and Nigeria who has a dream,” he said in his acceptance speech. “I want to inspire others to believe that with hardwork and dedication, they can also create solutions to the problems we face.”
The dialogues initiated at the event did not merely revolve around public transportation improvements. They shifted the narrative towards fostering an environment where innovation could flourish. Local government officials and educators in attendance discussed potential collaborations with Emmanuel, focusing on workshops and mentorship programmes that could nurture young innovators and engineers throughout the state.
The mood was one of the contagious enthusiasms as inventive minds converged during and after the event. Young innovators approached Emmanuel, expressing their desire to learn from his experience. Everyone from students with sketches of cars in hand to mechanics seeking to enhance their skillset shared ideas and visions for the future of transportation, sparking discussions about creating a regional hub for technological development.
The new bus terminals stand as a transformative initiative, expected to significantly ease transportation difficulties in the region. But it is the stories of individuals like Emmanuel that add a personal touch to these developments, reminding citizens that innovation can emerge from the most humble beginnings.
As the day concluded, the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose was palpable in the air. With the introduction of the CNG buses and the recognition of local excellence, Enugu takes a promising step towards integrating sustainability with ingenuity. As Emmanuel looks ahead, he is not just a local hero; he is a symbol of a burgeoning movement towards self-reliance and innovation among Nigeria’s youths. The governor’s investment in his talent may very well be the spark that ignites a new era of creativity and vision within Enugu State and beyond.
EDITOR
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, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
