₦airaland Forum

…To purchase five rapid intervention vehicles, fence forest reserve centre at Okpara Square

…As Gov. Ugwuanyi hands over five modern fire fighting trucks to state fire service

In continuation with its renewed efforts to provide more critical infrastructure in the state, the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, has approved the execution of development projects worth over N2.5 billion.

Briefing newsmen after the meeting of the State Executive Council (EXCO), the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, disclosed that the Council approved the construction of access and internal road networks at Golf Estate Annex, at Ngwuagu Amaezike, Abor, in Udi Local Government Area of the state, at the cost of N2,082,131,025.35.

Aroh who briefed the journalists, alongside the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji and their Finance and Economic Development counterpart, Mrs. Adaonah kene-Uyanwune, added that the council also approved the construction/rehabilitation of Manuwa Street, GRA, Enugu and Agbalaenyi junction-Enugu-Onitsha Expressway link road at Oji River LGA, at the cost of N200,414,307.00.

The information commissioner stated that the council approved the construction of 24-unit of one-bedroom flats at old Government Lodge, Enugu, at the cost of N137,500,915.00, to serve as a support facility for the ongoing 10-unit guest houses, nearing completion.

Equally approved by the council were the construction of high double cell box culvert and drainage work at Umuchigbo Nike, Enugu East LGA and fencing of the forest reserve, adjacent to Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, now known as Unity Park.

The park, which will serve as a tourist attraction as well as a place for relaxation and recreation, is currently witnessing massive beautification with works of art, construction of artificial water pond and a monumental roaring lion of about 30ft high and 60ft length, among others.

Aroh stated that the council also approved the construction of a Chapel of Worship at the Government House, Enugu and the immediate purchase of five (5) rapid intervention vehicles in keeping with the state government’s commitment to protect lives and property of people of the state.

He explained that the customized intervention vehicles with emergency rescue facilities will be purchased directly from John Holt Nig. Plc, to tackle fire, health and accident emergency challenges in the state “in line with the state government’s sustained commitment to provide for the safety of Enugu people.

“These come in small trucks and are very important because they make shorter runs, get quicker to emergency scenes and more difficult places”, Aroh said.

The commissioner further disclosed that the intervention vehicles will complement the five fire fighting trucks procured earlier by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration for the five newly constructed fire service stations across the state, which were formally handed over to the state fire service by the governor, on Thursday.

Other Council approvals, were the purchase of 1000KVA generator for ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, and the approval of the report of the joint committee for the negotiation of consequential adjustment for payment of N30,000 Minimum Wage for state civil servants, which the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mrs. Uyanwune and the state leadership of Organized Labour, said was a product of collective bargaining, based on the economic indices of the state.

In his submission, the works and infrastructure commissioner, Engr. Nnaji, assured that his ministry will utilize the construction weather window available to actualize the approved project in record time.

Enugu State is in the hands of God! # #

Following the submission of the report of the joint committee of labour and the state government set up by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, for the negotiation of the consequential adjustment of the N30,000 Minimum Wage, the Enugu State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved the payment of the new wage for the state workers with effect from February 2020.

Briefing newsmen at the Government House, Enugu, after a meeting with the Council, the leadership of the Organized Labour led by the Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, Comrade Igbokwe Chukwuma Igbokwe, said that the EXCO’s approval was a product of collective bargaining between the labour and the state government.

Comrade Igbokwe, who noted that this is the first time the labour was involved in the issue of Minimum Wage negotiation, disclosed that they are comfortable with the decision reached.

Details later…

For so many people, 2023 is a whole lot of months away, but for politicians, it’s just a matter of days to come. And that can be seen from the subtle but strategic moves of those eyeing the presidential seat. Though not audible, the race for who gets the key to Aso Villa after Buhari has begun in earnest.

President Muhammadu Buhari would use up his constitutionally allowed two-term in May 2023 and give way for a new helmsman to preside over Africa’s most populous nation. So, that has spurred questions on where exactly should Buhari’s successor comes from– South or North.

That question is not something new and has featured consistently in the country’s every election circle since the return of democracy in 1999. This is so given to a widely conceived notion that power rotates between the North and South. Though it was an unwritten concept, it has turned to be a critical factor that played a role in who gets the presidency.

That is the basis of expectations that Buhari’s successor is likely to come from Southern Nigeria. If eventually the North concede to that notion and accept that South should produce the president after Buhari, there is the raging question on which part of South should have it– Southwest or Southeast or Southsouth? However, lately, the clamour for an Igbo presidency is evoking debate

For proponents, their arguments are very simple; Igbos have been ignored for too long in the scheme of things in the country and allowing them to produce Buhari’s successor would go a long way in showing that they matter. But those arguments have failed to persuade those eyeing the highest office in the country from the Southwest, who contends that power is usually earned and not given, hence, seriously pushing for the presidency in 2023.

Not long ago, I had separate chats with two different campaigners who offered to fill me in why it should be Southwest or Southeast that should get a shot at the presidency in 2023– and how one makes political sense to the other and presents more advantage at delivering victory at the general poll. From both interactions, it was obvious from submissions that one is based on political entitlement and the other appeals to fairness and justice.

Let’s be frank with ourselves, 2023 is more than just having a new president but an excellent chance for us to remove long-term suspicions and strengthen our bond as a nation. And no other way to ensure that but to give serious considerations to fairness and justice in determining who gets the presidency in 2023, which should go to the Southeast.

That would be similar to what played out in 1999, at the return of democracy in the country. If you recall quite well, the Yorubas (Southwest) were left unchallenged for the country’s highest office, which eventually saw to the emergence of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, in what was seen as a move to placate the region for the perceived injustice that came with the annulment of June 12, 1993 election, generally believed to have been won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

And the clamour for an Igbo presidency at a time that hues of marginalisation have reached a crescendo, is something that warrants a similar approach. Why did I say so? This is because, in simple terms, that would put an end to unnecessary suspicions that have persisted for too long and decisively confront the division rhetorics that consistently count on the emotion of marginalisation against the Igbos, hence, help on the cohesiveness of our national unity.

Though we’re one nation, bound by a Constitution, but we must conform ourselves to the reality that we speak different languages and pray in different ways, and as such, every effort should be spared to ensure equality. Unlike the North and Southwest who have had fair shares at presiding over the country, the Southeast has been left in the cold when it comes to power, which has essentially given rise to disenchantments.

Too often, some people try to play down genuine clamours for equity by throwing up ‘competency’ as a particular set of criteria for leadership. But that insistence, over time, has shown to be a cunny distraction, because no part of Nigeria is ever in want of competent head to push for leadership. So, that kind of argument cannot be allowed to derail us from the path of fairness and justice, which the 2023 presidency would serve the Igbos if conceded to them.

When our founding fathers gathered in Lagos in 1960 to sign the Declaration of Independence, they have the sole intention of having a country that is fair and treats everyone equally. We should not let the values of that admirable sentiment to be lost on us, and at this point, commit ourselves to their ideas of freedom and equality that propelled their fights for independence. No other option better serves that but for us to replicate the brilliant arrangement of 1999 in 2023– this time, to favour the Igbo.

In my opinion, queuing behind Igbo for the presidency in 2023 would be the smartest political decision and its bearing, which I’ve no doubt will be good for the country, is something that would be cherished for a long time. To hold on to the past, will no doubt, be a major undoing that will ultimately rob us of the enormous potentials that the future hold.

Nevertheless, the Igbo should not stay idle but come up with a strong message to persuade other parts of the country on why it deserves the presidency. While the quest for fairness is something good, it, however, cannot be achieved when those who believed they have not been treated well failed to properly table the wrongs against them. Instead of banking on pity, Igbo should push forward their best heads, who will share ideas that would produce better results for Nigerians, and more importantly, assurance that Nigeria unity is secure with them.

Oke Umurhohwo is a Political Analyst and Strategist. He tweets via @OkeStalyf and can be reached via oke.umu@gmail.com

Safety: Enugu govt demolishes structures encroaching on Akanu Ibiam Int’l Airport

…Reiterates commitment to timely reopening of the airport

The Enugu State Government in furtherance of its commitment to the timely and successful completion of the rehabilitation of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, carried out demolition exercise of buildings and structures that encroached on the airport land, for safety and security of lives and property.

Addressing newsmen during the demolition, which was carried out by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), led by its Executive Chairman, Dr. Josef Umunnakwe Onoh, in company of officials of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, stated that the exercise was in response to the safety concerns raised by the federal government about the airport.

It would be recalled that the federal government had raised concerns over illegal structures encroaching on the land of the airport, radio mast of the state broadcasting service, and Free Trade Zone, requesting the state government to address the challenges for safety and security of the people and the airport.

Following the swift interventions of the state government, the federal government through the Ministry of Aviation and FAAN had expressed satisfaction at the compliance with the above directives, which paved way for the ongoing rehabilitation of the airport.

Speaking, the information commissioner added that the demolition exercise was in continuation of the state government’s efforts to ensure that the airport reopens as scheduled by the federal government for effective operations.

Aroh pointed out that the State Executive Council (EXCO) in its first meeting in 2020, approved the request made by FAAN for the issuance of a composite Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) and full acquisition of the airport land, disclosing that the demolition exercise was part of the processes being carried out in the overriding public interest.

“Enugu State Government is committed to the safety of our people. We are committed to the welfare of our people and one of the most fundamental processes we need to undergo, to continue to grow the economy of Enugu State and the entire South East geo-political zone and beyond, is to ensure that this international airport, which is the only international airport South East of the Niger is fully functional”, he said.

The commissioner disclosed that the demolition of the encroached structures will allow the installation of night landing lights at the airport, stressing that the state government is determined to ensure that any obstacle that hinders the full realization of the airport project will be duly addressed.

According to him, “We have received assurances from the contractors, from FAAN, that this airport will be re-opened for operations in April. Every land that is acquired by FAAN is acquired by the state in line with extant laws and we are providing all the necessary support for this airport to be operational. We are going to continue to put in the best of our efforts to ensure that the directives of the State Executive Council are carried out”.

Nigerians, just like people from other countries, were preoccupied with the brewing tension that the assassination of an Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRG) Commander, Qassim Soleimani, by the United States of America airstrike had ignited when their attention was drawn to something interesting back home. It was no other but President Muhammadu Buhari surprisingly complain at the rate which Nigerians patronise foreign hospitals for their health needs.

Buhari, who apparently, was troubled at how much Nigerians have suffered by going abroad for medical treatment, said the practice has become unbearable for the country and must stop now. Represented by the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, during the inauguration and handing over of completed projects to the management of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, the president said “Nigerians have suffered so much going abroad for medical treatment. This is not good for us and it must stop because we can’t afford it again.”

Definitely, no president or leader of any country would feel unmoved at the enormous of money lost to medical tourism on a yearly basis and its huge toll on the country’s health sector. What, however, sound confounding and has agitated the minds of Nigerians was, who is the president talking to?

That question was not unexpected when you consider that the president would definitely rank top on the list of those who patronise foreign hospitals for treatment. It would, expectedly, ignite confusion and leaves many Nigerians wondering what Buhari is trying to get at.

So often, the penchant of a few privileged Nigerians to rush overseas for medical treatment dominates public discussions. This is so knowing well the economic implications and how much damage it has caused to the country’s health sector.

Nevertheless, nothing really has changed. Rather, what we’ve seen is a sustained culture of medical tourism and even the president casting serious doubt in the quality and effectiveness of the country’s health system with his frequent medical treatments abroad. That, put to doubt, his promises to fix the country’s health sector.

A few years back, many Nigerians had counted on Buhari’s famed frugal style to limit or outrightly, bring to an end to the recurring practice where privileged Nigerians patronise foreign hospitals. They were so convinced that a president in Buhari mould would not allow what many considered to be one of the ‘wasteful’ habits of the ruling class and a strong impediment to the country’s health sector, to continue, but fix the country’s hospitals for the use of everyone.

But those expectations have not only been shattered, but Nigerians are also left to bear the anguish of a failed health infrastructure. Anytime Buhari or any of the ruling class has health issues, they easily fly abroad and leave millions of Nigerians without resources with the poor and degrading hospitals to handle their health conditions.

And, to say those who frequent hospitals abroad for their health needs have suffered so much, is the height of insensitivity to what many Nigerians are facing with the poor situation of medicare in the country. Except Buhari wants to be economical with the truth or keeping up with politician traits, those who are actually suffering from the preference of few to patronise foreign hospitals, are the weak and deprived Nigerians.

When you visit public hospitals in Nigeria, you’ll get a clearer picture of what people go through every day in their quest for the restoration of their health, and how they are most times, left to their faith, owing to poor infrastructures or lack of personnel. That is the case because those who should ensure public health are good enough to serve the people, abandoned it to patronise foreign hospitals.

Disturbing, however, is that Aso Villa clinic, which is purposely set up to take care of the President, Vice President and their families, as well as members of Staff of the Presidential Villa, have joined the appalling state of healthcare in the country. Despite billions voted to the clinic in the last five years, those who should use the facility ignores it for medicals abroad and cost Nigeria more resources.

Quite obvious that more than anyone, the president shares blame for the increasing preference of some privileged Nigerians to go abroad for their health needs. The truth is Buhari’s assessment on how the practice is not good for the country and should stop, however, he was wrong to assume that people who choose foreign hospitals, rather than those left with no choice but accept the deplorable state of hospitals at home, bear so much pain.

For so long, Nigeria’s health sector has suffered negligence and that has put the health need of million of deprived citizens in jeopardy. And, if Buhari thinks seeking foreign medicare is badly hurting Nigeria and needs to stop, he should lead by example. As the leader of the country, he should start showing trust in Nigerian hospitals by patronising them.

That should also extend to his family and top government functionaries so as to demonstrate to Nigerians that, indeed, his government is sincere on the need to end medical tourism. The time for lamentations or warnings is far over, but rather, what Nigerians want are actions that match pronouncements by the government. Otherwise, Nigerians would have nothing but a question; who is Buhari talking to?

Oke Umurhohwo is a Political Analyst and Strategist. He tweets via@OkeStalyf and can be reached via oke.umu@gmail.com

The Enugu State chapter of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has flayed insinuations that some disgruntled people carried mock coffin of former Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, Mr. Patrick Omeje, to the country home of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

State Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Henry Atigwe who dispelled the rumour in Enugu, described it as the handiwork of failed politicians that were not bold enough to participate in the amicable and rancour-free process adopted by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state in producing candidates for the party.

“I don’t know where that one is coming from; although we heard that some people staged a protest majorly on the social media. For us the youths of Enugu state, we are totally behind the governor and we thank him for seeing that over 95 per cent of the chairmanship candidates of PDP are youths.

We’re, therefore, calling on other political parties to also give their tickets to the youths. In fact, we applaud Governor Ugwuanyi for really involving youths in governance in Enugu State,” Atigwe stated.

Meanwhile, a deluge of reactions have continued to trail the purported protest against Omeje’s candidature.

An intimidating crowd of his supporters, yesterday, practically grounded activities in the University town.

They sang praises of the governor, and insisted that Omeje was the people’s choice and no amount of blackmail from any quarters would change their support for him.

Recall that a magistrate’s court sitting in Enugu North Local Government Area had on Monday, remanded eight persons in prison custody for allegedly carrying a mock coffin of Omeje round parts of Nsukka over alleged imposition of a chairmanship candidate in the forthcoming local government election.

The protesters were alleged to have attempted heading towards Udenu, the local government council.

They were arraigned on a two count charge bordering on felony, an act the prosecutor said was capable of causing and promoting native war and “thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 86 of the criminal code, cap 30 volume 11 of revised laws of Enugu State of Nigeria 2004.”

If there is anything that Nigeria politicians are consistently good at, it is taking credits. Whenever things go right, they are quick to flaunt how their policies and interventions are doing wonders and delivering necessary gains.

Let any of their policies flop and bring discomfort, loss, embarrassment or shame to the people or country, they have excuses and find who to shift the blame on. With little or no concern for what people feel, they play up theories on how their predecessors prepared the ground for whatever goes wrong.

Soon, it becomes a habit and created an impression, whether in the mind of politicians and observers, that the business of politicians is solely power. Every day, we are treated to scenarios of people who are occupying leadership positions show poor attitudes to responsibility.

That was why it took many Nigerians by surprise when the Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, took responsibility for a recent inferno that gutted a popular market in the state. So unusual and that got people talking on what should be a normal practice. But considering the posture of people in leadership to responsibility, I think what Makinde did with the inferno disaster, would definitely, be seen as extraordinary.

Shortly after visiting the scene of the inferno, Makinde took to his Facebook page to explain what his government has done to identify with traders who suffered loss from the fire outbreak and importantly, take responsibility for the failure of the fire service, whose capacity was not enough to quench the fire. In the post, he said “We visited Oja Akesan, Oyo Town to assess the damage caused by the fire outbreak last Sunday, this afternoon (Wednesday).

The governor who embarked on the visit with members of his cabinet added that “I commiserated with traders who lost goods in the fire and told them that I am taking full responsibility for the failure of the fire service to contain the fire and that our administration will make things right. He went on to assure “them (traders) that our administration will rebuild a new modern market as soon as possible, and that the Caretaker Chairman of Oyo East LGA has a list of all traders in the market. He will give it to us to enable us to support the traders, who lost goods in the fire.”

To start with, what happened at the Akesan market was unfortunate and should not have happened if the fire service was efficient and equipped with the needed facility to do their job. But to see that Makinde come out open to take responsibility and promise to make things right is a commendable shift from the old habit of nothing is ever wrong.

For so long, Nigerian leaders maintained a posture that absolved them from anything that goes wrong. Anytime things go wrong, you hardly find anyone who takes responsibility, and most time, this has a serious impact on those who suffered from the failure of leadership getting any hope of remedy. That’s something that has hurt Nigeria and Nigerians for so long.

Unfortunately, some politicians still embrace this wrong attitude and believe that they have a duty to themselves and few elites alone, with little or no responsibility to citizens who entrusted them with power. Probably, that was the simple answer for the sluggish pace of development and sheer indiscipline that is constantly making a serious mess of governance in the country. Because the strength of leadership is taking responsibility for outcomes under you.

There can be no question, ever, that those who have the mandate of people and take decisions on their behalf have a responsibility, and they should at all times keep up to it, most especially when things go awry. That must be what a celebrated American author, Napoleon Hill, had in mind when he said: “The successful leader must be willing to assume the responsibility for the mistakes and the shortcomings of his followers.”

To put what Makinde did with the fire outbreak at the Akesan market in the right perspective, he simply showed that leadership is a responsibility, and as a leader in the state, failure of the fire service to contain the inferno was also his failure. That’s superb and clearly projected a leader who is really concerned about the people and prepared to offer a solution, and not blame.

If you go through his post on his Facebook page with an objective mind, you’ll realize that he understood well enough that the fire service was incapacitated, not because they choose to but going by the limited equipment at their disposal. And, promising that “our administration will make things right”, go along way to assure the traders who have suffered a loss that the government would not abandon them. What a brilliant approach!

The tragedy, like the Akesan market, is not unique to Oyo state. But what seemed different is that Makinde is not blaming anyone, rather, concentrated more on the remedy. That’s the ideal thing because if we are to make any significant progress on the monumental societal problems, those who lead must learn to be sincere with themselves and the people.

Finally, think about the time your governor or any political office holder accepted they did wrong and make a pledge to make things right. You, probably, would realize how many times they’ve offered excuses and show no remorse for the pains they have caused you with their actions or inactions. So, leadership is about taking responsibility and it’s good that Makinde is showing us that.

Oke Umurhohwo is a Political Analyst and Strategist. He tweets via @OkeStalyf and can be reached via oke.umu@gmail.com

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has charged the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) to conduct credible, free and fair Chairmanship and Councillorship elections across the seventeen (17) local government councils and 260 electoral wards in the state.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, who spoke when he swore in four new ENSIEC Electoral Commissioners in the state, following their nomination and subsequent confirmation by the State House of Assembly, stated that the call for credible elections was consistent with his administration’s tradition of transparency, equity and fairness.

The four newly sworn in Electoral Commissioners, who now fill the vacuum hitherto created in the Commission, are Mr. Solomon Ifechukwu Ude, Mrs. Anthonia Chinenyenwa Ogbu, Hon. Mrs. Theresa Egbo and Dr. Mrs. Bernadine Ezugwu.

Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that pursuant to section 3, subsection 2, of the ENSIEC Law 2000, “the Commission shall consist of a Chief Electoral Commissioner, who shall be the Chairman and seven (7) other members to be known as Electoral Commissioners whereas section 11, subsection 4, provides that the quorum for meetings of the Commission shall be five (5)”.

The governor further disclosed that the vacuum in the membership of the state electoral body was created following the death of Chief David O. Ngene, resignations of Hon. Samuel Okechukwu Ngene and Hon. Mrs. Jane Chinwendu Eneh who got elected to the State Assembly and Engr. Dr. MaryRose Obiageli Abba, who got appointed as his Special Adviser, respectively.

He added that the depletion in the ENSIEC membership made it impossible for the electoral body to form the needed quorum for a properly constituted meeting, disclosing that with the new members who were sworn in, “as we just witnessed, the Commission is now properly constituted and ready for the forthcoming Local Government elections, amongst its other related functions”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, who also swore in Barr. Chris Onyema Ezugwu as his Special Adviser, congratulated them for their new appointments wishing them God’s guidance in the discharge of their duties.

Responding on behalf of others, Dr. Mrs. Ezugwu, thanked God and expressed gratitude to the governor for finding them worthy to serve the state.

Noting that their responsibilities are “very challenging”, require firm character, dedication and commitment, the new Electoral Commissioner assured the governor that they will put in their best to ensure credible electoral process in the state.

…Says it has not received any complaint from FAAN, contractors

The Enugu State Government has denied the news making the rounds that the host community of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, which is undergoing major upgrade, demanded the sum of five hundred million naira (N500,000.00) from the contractors handling the project.

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, the state government described the news as “false, malicious and baseless”.

Aroh who stressed the commitment of the Enugu State Government to the timely and successful completion of the upgrade of the airport, stated “categorically that no such situation or incident ever occurred”.

He added that “the state government has not received any complaint from the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) or the contractors handling the all-important project”.

The information commissioner stated that “it is a well-known fact, which indeed has been publicly acknowledged severally by both the Hon. Minister of Aviation and the Management of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) that the Enugu State Government has provided all the required support in respect of the upgrading of the Akunu Ibiam International Aiport, Enugu”.

Aroh disclosed that the state government in furtherance of its commitment to the upgrading and timely re-opening of the Enugu airport, during the first meeting of the State Executive Council (EXCO) in 2020, held on January 8, “approved the request of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) made on its behalf by the Managing Director, Captain Rabiu Yadudu, for the issuance of a composite Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) for the entire land area of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu”.

He, therefore, maintained that “the Enugu State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi will continue to provide every support needed to ensure the quick completion of the upgrade of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu”

Enugu State is in the hands of God! ##

The President has sent the name of a young and consummate Nigerian, Dr Kingsley I Obiora to the Nigerian Senate for approval to replace Dr Nnana as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria

Here is a Brief Biography of the New CBN Deputy Governor

OVERVIEW

Dr. Kingsley Obiora is an Alternate Executive Director in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington DC, USA. In this capacity, he is a member of the 24-Seat Executive Board, collectively responsible for conducting the daily operations of the IMF. He also assists to represent the interests of 23 African Countries, including Nigeria, at the Board. He joined the IMF through the globally-competitive “Economist Program” in 2007 and has worked on various countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia. He has done extensive work on exchange rate assessment, debt sustainability analysis, decoupling and spillovers, real sector analysis, as well as several reviews of financial sector assessments. Prior to joining the IMF, he worked at the West African Monetary Institute in Accra, Ghana and the Centre for Econometric and Allied Research, University of Ibadan.

Between October 2011 and May 2014, Dr. Obiorah simultaneously served as Technical Adviser to the Nigeria’s National Economic Management Team as well as Special Assistant to the President Jonathan’s Chief Economic Adviser. During this time, he played key roles in helping shape the country’s economic policies on several fronts, including on energy subsidies, power sector reform, measurement of job creation, architecture of development financing, diversification of the economy, oil price benchmarking in the budgetary process, regulatory framework for doing business, Port reform, and asset-based economic mapping and modeling.

Dr. Obiora contributed to the preparation of several Presidential Speeches, economic updates, reviews, talking points, and analytical notes for Presidential Retreats. He also led different teams to author several books, chronicling numerous reforms in the Nigerian Economy. In view of these accomplishments, he received a personal Letter of Commendation from President Jonathan in May 2014.

From June 2014 until July 2018, Dr. Obiorah served as Special Adviser on Economic Matters to the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). In this capacity, he contributed significantly to the overall analytical and policy work of the CBN and led the team of several Technical Aides attached to the Governors Office. His extensive international and domestic economic experiences were critical in helping the Bank understand the ramifications of, and deal with spillovers from, the external shocks emanating from the significant drop in global oil prices. He led the team that built the macroeconomic model underlying President Buhari’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP). Dr. Obiora has a first degree from the University of Benin and post-graduate degrees in Economics from the University of Ibadan.

Qualifications

• B.Sc (Ed) Economics and Statistics Benin 1999.
• M.Sc Economics (Distinction) Ibadan 2002.
• PhD Economics Ibadan 2007. Certifications
• Management of Central Banks—Federal Reserve Bank of New York 2016
• Financial Development, Regulation, and Growt —IMF Institute, Washington DC 2007
• Financial Programming and Policies—IMF Institute, Washington DC 2007
• Econometric Modeling and Forecasting—IMF Institute, Washington DC 2008
• Ph.D Course in Econometrics (Full Semester)—George Washington University, Washington DC, 2009
• Foundations of Macro-Financial Surveillance—IMF Institute, Washington DC 2009
• Empirical Modeling of Macroeconomic Time Series—IMF Institute, Washington DC 2009
• The Design of Growth Policy—IMF Institute, Washington DC 2010
• Panel Data Analysis—IMF Institute, Washington DC 2011
• Fiscal Policy and Macroeconomics—IMF Institute, Washington DC 2011

Experience

• Junior Research Fellow—Centre for Econometric and Allied Research (CEAR), University of Ibadan (2003-2006).
• Economist— West African Monetary Institute, Accra GHANA (2006– 2007)
• Economist—International Monetary Fund (IMF), Washington DC, USA. (2007–2016)
• Technical Adviser, National Economic Management Team, Abuja, Nigeria (2011-2014)
• Special Assistant, Chief Economic Adviser’s Office, Abuja, Nigeria (2011-2014)
• Special Adviser on Economic Matters to the CBN Governor, Abuja, Nigeria. (2014-2018)
• Alternate Executive Director, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Washington DC, USA (2018-2020).

Ugwuanyi lauds Aisha Buhari’s leadership qualities

…As Sen. Melaye hails gov’s initiatives

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has applauded the leadership qualities of the First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, in promoting and identifying with persons with disability, through sports.

Gov. Ugwuanyi who spoke during the dinner organized by the Para Powerlifting Federation, under the Patronship of Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari, to raise funds for the "Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup", coming up in February, in Abuja, described the President’s wife as “a pacesetter”.

The governor expressed gratitude to Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari, who is the Grand Patron of the “Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup”, for nominating Enugu State to participate in the fund raising dinner as the host.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to the wellbeing of the people including the physically challenged, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that the state government has been in the vanguard of protecting the rights of people with special needs, optimizing opportunities for them to be productively engaged and live a fulfilling life.

He added that the state government is proud and has continued to encourage her daughter, the Nigeria Powerlifting legend, Lucy Ogechukwu Ejike, as a worthy Ambassador and great inspiration to persons with physical impairments.

According to him, “Enugu State government granted automatic employment to fifty (50) graduates with special needs in the year 2017 amongst other deliberate measures that ensure adequate integration of persons with special needs in our state”.

Declaring his administration’s support for the upcoming sporting event in Abuja, Gov. Ugwuanyi urged the people to donate generously towards “this laudable project to support the Chief Host and Grand Patron of “Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup”, Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and ensure victory for Team Nigeria in this competition”.

In her speech, Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari, represented by the wife of former Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Mrs. Mairo Al Makura, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for "hosting this event today towards a successful Abuja 2020 Para Powerlifting World Cup".

Dr. Mrs. Al Makura stressed the First Lady's passion for the wellbeing of the less privileged in the society as well as her commitment to the successful hosting of the event in Abuja.

She, therefore, noted that the donations will go a long way to ensure the successful hosting of the international sporting event in the country, which the First Lady holds in high esteem.

Her words: “As we are all aware, Her Excellency, the First Lady is the Grand Patron and she is so passionate about the less privileged in the society. Her total commitment to this course was shown when she hosted the team at the Presidential Villa.

“She will continue to solicit support from both public and private donors as Nigeria has been given the hosting right for the World Cup. It is going to be an achievement for all and we should therefore, do everything possible to make our country and Africa proud.”

Earlier in his goodwill message, popular Nigerian politician and former Senator who represented Kogi West Senatorial District, Senator Dino Melaye, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his good governance initiatives and commitment to the wellbeing of the people of the state.

Senator Melaye, who specially thanked Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari for "identifying with persons with disability and the vulnerable in our society", also applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for hosting the dinner and identifying with the physically challenged, "particularly those who have brought glory and honour to the Federal Republic of Nigeria".

Describing Ugwuanyi as "the performing Governor of Enugu State", Senator Melaye told the governor that "I am particularly impressed with your good works in Enugu State, more particularly, the stability and low crime rate in the state".

Expressing his delight at participating in the fund raising dinner, Senator Melaye pointed out that the event was able to hold in Enugu, out of the 36 states of the federation, because of Gov. Ugwuanyi's heart of gold in identifying with persons with disability.

Also present at the event were the State Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, who is the Grand Matron of Para Powerlifting Federation, the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, the Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu and other royal fathers, the Chairman of the Occasion, Chief Tony Eze, Chief Anayo Onwuegbu (Omeiheukwu), among others.

Enugu State is in the hands of God!##

Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Enugu State Governor, has appointed Nollywood actress Reaheal Okonkwo, as Enugu State Ambassador on Youth Development.

The beautiful famous actress announced the good news via her Instagram page, where she shared a photo of herself and the governor holding what appeared to be her appointment letter.

” I am overwhelmed and glad to inform you that I have been appointed the Enugu State Ambassador on Youth Development by the state governor, His Excellency IFEANYI LAWRENCE UGWUANYI (GBURUS).

“I am humbled that my state found me worthy to represent them and I promise to do my utmost best towards creating positive impact in the lives of Youths and the people of Enugu State at large.

#Enugu State is in hand of God
#Nkolinwansukka
#Ugommandigbo, she captioned the photo.

Okonkwo, who is popularly known as Nkoli Nwa Nsukka is a fast rising Nollywood actress, model, singer, dancer and a philanthropist.

In 2007, Rachael Okonkwo joined the Nigerian movie industry (Nollywood) professionally, after registering with the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) Enugu Chapter, and started attending movie auditions and featuring as minor character in movies.

In 2008, she played a supporting role in the movie “Royal War” alongside Ini Edo and Van Vickers.

Also in 2010, she played a supporting role in the movie “Open and Close”, alongside Nuela Njibuigbo, Patience Ozokwor, John Okafor and Charles Inojie.

In 2014, the renowned dancer rose to fame after playing the lead role in the Nollywood blockbuster movie “Nkoli Nwa Nsukka”, an Igbo indigenous movie produced and directed by Mac Collins Chidebe.

Rachael Okonkwo has acted in more than 100 Nollywood movies which include Royal War, Ekaette Goes to School, White Ladies, Sister Esther, Paw Paw the Guitar Boy, Bloody War, Ogidi, Teri Teri, Arthur One Eye, Onwa Na South.

Others are Left Over, Zee World Madness, University Girls, Vale of Tears, Ojawa-Nwa, Justify My Love, Eno My Calabar Love, Ijele the Princess of Fire, Local Prostitute, Please Leave My Husband, Tears of Betrayal, The Gods Anger, among others

In 2014, the model and songwriter won the Best Indigenous Comedy Actress at the City People Entertainment Awards.

In 2016, she was nominated for Best Comedy Actress of the Year at the African Magic Viewers Choice Awards for her role as Nkoli in the movie “Nkoli Nwa Nsukka”.

The beautiful and talented actress, recently debunked rumours that she was dating Nollywood movie producer and director, Mac Collins Chidebe, and Nollywood famous actor Ken Erics during an interview.

Okonkwo, who is also a philanthropist, has a special way of giving back to the society.

According to her, she hosts an annual carnival, which aims at providing free gifts for kids and entertainment to the people.

She said the project enables her to interact with her fans.

In 2015, she hosted the first edition of the children’s Easter Carnival, which aimed at giving free gifts to kids during the Easter celebration and was held in Enugu coal city of Enugu State.

In 2015, Rachael Okonkwo was nominated for Best Supporting Actress of the Year (English) at the City People Entertainment Awards and Best Comic Actress of the Year at the Karis Media Awards.

In 2016, Rachael Okonkwo was nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the City People Entertainment Awards.

In 2016, she hosted the second edition of the children’s Easter Carnival, which was held in Onitsha, Anambra State.

The second edition recorded more turnout as she was accompanied by fellow Nollywood actors like Ken Erics among others to the event.

In 2017, she hosted the third edition of the children’s Easter Carnival, which was held in her city of birth Nsukka, Enugu State.

The event recorded not less than 5,000 people in attendance including Nollywood celebrities like Angela Okorie, Nonso Diobi, Ken Erics, Eve Esin and Nigerian Hip hop rapper Slowdog

Rachael Okonkwo is currently one of the richest and most influential actresses in Nigeria.(NAN)

…To recruit middle, senior level staff for efficient service delivery

…Rehabilitates, constructs more boreholes to enhance water supply

The Enugu State Executive Council (EXCO) yesterday awarded contracts for more infrastructural developments in the urban and rural areas, worth over N1.1 billion. This is in furtherance of the state government’s renewed vigour in providing democracy dividends to the people of the state.

It would be recalled that the state government in the last two months had awarded contracts for multiple development projects worth over N6.3 billion, which are ongoing.

Addressing newsmen after the meeting of the State Executive Council, yesterday, the Commissioner for Information, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, disclosed that the Council directed the Head of Service and the State Civil Service Commission to immediately commence the processes for the recruitment of middle level and senior level cadre staff “to bring in sharp and fresh hands to strengthen the state’s public service, which is the driving force for the implementation of government policies”.

On the road projects awarded for construction and rehabilitation, Aroh further disclosed that the council granted approval for the construction of Phase III of Amokwe road in Udi Local Government Area starting from Udi Station through Ibuzo Amokwe to Amokwe Station road at the cost of N383,020,112.90.

The Commissioner added that the Council awarded contract for the extension of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ezi Ukehe-Afia Four-Umurusi-Major General Ezugwu House-Umuoka Junction road in Igbo Etiti LGA at the cost of N153,208,045.16.

He stated that approval was also granted for the construction/rehabilitation of Ojoto Crescent, Trans Ekulu, Enugu at the cost of N153,208,045.16.

Other road projects that were approved for construction and reconstruction by the Council include Brown and Brown Crescent, Independence Layout, Enugu, completion of internal roads at Diamond City Estate, GRA, Enugu, Ozidem-Nrobo-Abbi-Nimbo road (Earth Road) in Uzo Uwani LGA, totaling N312,469,396.75.

On public buildings, Aroh stated that the Council approved the requests from the state Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for the construction of perimeter fence for the five fire service stations in the state that were newly constructed by Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration as well as the perimeter fence, retaining walls and gate houses at Diamond City Estate, GRA, Enugu, at the sum cost of N69,208,006.34.

He further stated that the requests for supply and installation of single-arm smart integrated solar powered street lights (80 watts) and solar powered borehole for the five (5) new fire service stations were equally approved.

In line with the state government’s commitment to improve water supply in the state, Aroh revealed that the EXCO approved the advertisement for immediate rehabilitation of the 9th mile borehole project and construction of fresh boreholes in Nsukka and Obollo-Afor to enhance the supply of water to people of the state.

On healthy living, the Commissioner said that EXCO directed the Ministry of Agriculture to immediately advertise for a Consultant to handle the technical processes for the construction of abattoirs in the state to ensure safety of meat consumption.

He added that the Council called for “total reorganization of the Ministry of Health” which will include recruitment of new staff, consultants, nurses and other critical health personnel to enhance effective delivery of services in the health sector in the state.

Aroh maintained that the EXCO also approved the setting up of monitoring and evaluation team to evaluate and monitor the implementation of the 2020 budget in keeping with the state government’s commitment to accountability, transparency and fiscal responsibility.

There were strong indications on Wednesday that intrigues among South-West governors and interference by the Federal Government were threatening the Western Nigeria Security Outfit codenamed Operation Amotekun (leopard).

The PUNCH gathered that although all the South-West governors agreed to set up the security outfit at a summit organised by the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria in June last year, some of them had started developing cold feet.

The summit, which was attended by the governors, traditional rulers and other stakeholders in the South-West, was convened following serial killings and kidnapping in the zone by Fulani herdsmen.

Gunmen, suspected to be herdsmen, had in June killed Funke Olakunri, a daughter of the Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti, on the Ondo-Ore road.

In May, a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Prof Olayinka Adegbehingbe, was abducted at the Ikoyi/Apomu junction of the Ibadan-Ife Expressway in Ikire, a border town between Osun and Oyo states.

There were also many cases of kidnapping and killings on other major roads in the zone.

But one of our correspondents gathered on Wednesday that some elements within the Presidency as well as the police high command, were not favourably disposed to the regional outfit because they considered it as part of restructuring agenda, the South-West had been pushing for.

It was learnt that after understanding the body language of the Federal Government, some governors’ interest in the security outfit began to wane.

A top Federal Government official, who confided in The PUNCH, said, “Having studied the ‘body language’ of the executive at the federal level, some of these governors who do not want to be in the bad books of ‘Abuja’ are secretly going behind to give the impression that a particular governor among them was the one pushing for the regional outfit.

“Some of these governors have ambitions for positions at the centre, do not want to give an impression that they are confronting the centre through the setting up of the regional security outfit.

“We understand that a section of the Presidency and the police high command are uncomfortable with the idea of a regional security outfit which they do not have direct control over.

“The same governors are in quandary because they equally don’t want to give their people the impression that they are not interested in promoting a regional response to a real and present threat of an invasion of their ancestral lands.”

But at least, three of the South-West states on Wednesday said they would attend the launch of the security outfit which would take place in Ibadan on Thursday.

When one of our correspondents enquired about the event, the Chief Press Secretary to the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, Kunle Somorin, earlier on Wednesday said, “I have my reservation about that because he (governor ) has not mobilised us. He has not asked us to get set for Ibadan.”

But later on Wednesday, the CPS said his boss had given the signal of his readiness to participate in the proposed launch.

He said “the Chief of Staff (Shuaib Salis) has called me that we should prepare to go to Ibadan tomorrow (Thursday) for the launch of Amotekun.”

It’s early to say whether Sanwo-Olu will attend or not – Aide

The Chief Press Secretary to the Lagos State Governor, Mr Gboyega Akosile, said the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was in support of the Operation Amotekun.

Akosile, in an interview with one of our correspondents, said, “It is part of his itinerary to attend the launch of the scheme on Thursday but it is too early to know if he will attend in person or not. He is cooperating with other South-West governors to safeguard lives and property in the region.”

The Chief Press Secretary to Osun State Governor, Ismail Omipidan, said the state would participate in the launch.

He said the state had received an invitation to the launch of Operation Amotekun and would be at the venue in Ibadan.

120 Amotekun vehicles head towards Ibadan

The Special Adviser to Ekiti State Governor on security, Brigadier General Ebenezar Ogundana (retd.) also confirmed that the launch would take place in Ibadan as scheduled.

He said, “The launch is taking place in Ibadan on Thursday (today). The headquarters will be at Ibadan. All the states in the South-West are already gathering in Ibadan in readiness for the launch.

The security adviser said all the 120 branded Operation Amotekun vehicles – 20 vans from each of the six southwest states – would be there in Ibadan for the launch. He added that after the launch, the vehicles would be dispatched to the respective states.

Ogundana said that the size of the troops would be determined by what each of the six states had capacity for and based on the level of security threat.

He stated, “Every state government will fund the troops in its state. It is the capacity of a state that will determine the size of troops it needs.

“Each state will determine what it needs and what it can afford. You know the states are not the same; the threats are not the same and the strengths are not the same. It is when we come back from the launch now that we will determine our actual needs.”

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Muyiwa Olumilua, dismissed a rumour that South-West governors had been invited to Abuja on Wednesday for a meeting over Amotekun, fuelling fears the launch might be halted.

Fayemi went to Abuja on Wednesday – Commissioner

He said, “The inauguration still holds tomorrow (Thursday). As I speak, all other South-West governors are in their states preparatory to the launch. The launch is going on tomorrow (Thursday) as scheduled. Governor Kayode Fayemi left for Abuja after the state Executive Council meeting in Ado Ekiti today (Wednesday).

“All the issues concerning Amotekun have been resolved and the launch will go on tomorrow (Thursday) as scheduled.”

Nothing is stopping Operation Amotekun – Ondo govt

On his part, the Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Security Matters, Alhaji Jimoh Dojumo, said officers of the state were already in Ibadan for the launch.

He said, “I don’t think anything is stopping the launch of Operation Amotekun tomorrow (Thursday). We are already in Ibadan for the launch, on the instructions of Mr Governor. All the teams from other states are here too for the programme. So the operation would be launched as scheduled.”

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It’s not an alternative Army – DAWN

But the Director-General, Development Agenda for Western Nigeria, Seye Oyeleye, said Operation Amotekun was not an alternative Army.

Oyeleye, who spoke in an interview with one of our correspondents, said the outfit’s headquarters would be in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

He stated,”I want to disabuse the thinking that we want to set up an alternative army. This is community policing and in 2020, policing has to be local. That is the idea behind Operation Amotekun.

“I have heard people say the police will not allow it to work. But I say Operation Amotekun will, in fact, help the police because they are the local people that know everywhere and understand the terrain very well. The police cannot say they know all the forests and bushes in the South-West.”

Oyeleye described as untrue a report that the personnel of Operation Amotekun would be paid N13,500 monthly.

He stated, “Someone said on Tuesday that they would be giving the personnel of the security N13,500 as monthly salary. This is not true. I can’t give you the figure they will be paid but no state will pay below the minimum wage. The payment would be done by the individual state. You see, Amotekun is a regional thing but it will be run under regional collaboration. It still has the state elements there.

“Their operation will be seamless. If something is happening near the Oyo border, the Ogun Amotekun can cross into Oyo and vice versa. They will be working and communicating together but the states are, at the moment, solely responsible for the payment of salaries.”

Oyeleye recalled what brought about Operation Amotekun was the increase in banditry and kidnapping in the South-West.

“ The states said we are contiguous in that we share common boundaries and we speak same language, let’s do something jointly among the states so that someone driving from Lagos to Ogun would have rest of mind. Even if something is happening you can approach them and the men of the Operation Amotekun will also call the police for backup.”

Fayemi, IGP meet

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has endorsed the Operation Amotekun.

This followed the visit by Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State to the IG at the force headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

Fayemi, who is also the Chairman of the Nigeria Governor’s Forum reportedly met with Adamu where they discussed the operational modalities for the regional security outfit which would be inaugurated in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Thursday (today).

A source said, “Governor Fayemi has met with the IG and both men agreed on the need for the security outfit to take off as soon as possible to address the security challenges in the South-West. They also discussed the technical details and the IG fully endorsed the initiative.”

The police spokesman, DCP Frank Mba, failed to respond to inquiries on the regional security outfit as calls to his phone rang out. He had yet to respond to a text message as of the time of filing this report.

- Residents of Jos and Kano have been forced to stay indoors for long hours due to a very chilly weather

- Many of the residents said they have resorted to using charcoal fire to stay warm indoors

- The development also has an economic side effect as the prices of second-hand sweaters and jackets rose up to N2000 and N2500 from N500 and N600

As harmattan breeze permeates through Nigeria's weather, residents of Jos and Kano have been forced to remain indoors, with their normal daily routine activities disrupted.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the residents of the two cities lamented the intensity of the cold weather which reportedly started on Wednesday night, January 1.

Legit.ng gathered that Jos' temperature dropped to an average of 11 degrees Celsius on Wednesday evening, but rises to about 19 degrees in the afternoon.

The cold weather has also caused an increase in the prices of second-hand sweaters and jackets with the materials selling for between N2000 and N2500, as against the former N500 and N600, respectively.

The chilly weather had also forced many families to resort to using charcoal and firewood to warm their bodies as the weather became colder.

Also, in the northern city of Kano, residents woke up to a very chilly temperature which forced commercial tricycle operators to suspend operation as most of the streets in the ancient city had been deserted.

Malam Bello Sani, who is a resident of the city, said he had not been able to come out in the morning as he used to due to the sudden cold weather in the city.

According to him, Kano metropolis recorded a low temperature of 7°C on Wednesday night, which is colder than London at 9°C on the same night.

Many residents of the city said they resorted to using charcoal fire to warm their bodies. The chilly weather has also reportedly improved the tea selling business in the ancient city.

...Says education remains one of the cardinal policies of his administration

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, on Saturday, performed the foundation laying ceremony of Samuel Maduka University, Agu-Ekwegbe in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of the State founded by the proprietor of Peace Mass Transit company, Dr. Samuel Maduka Onyishi.

Performing the event amid jubilation, Gov. Ugwuanyi expressed delight at the driving spirit of Dr. Onyishi in envisioning a University that is entrepreneurial in content, describing it as another milestone achievement.

The governor, who congratulated the founder of the University for his courage and vision in establishing the institution, reiterated the premium his administration places on education as one of its cardinal policies.

He stressed that this "is why in almost five years, education has taken the second position, only after Works and Infrastructure, in the state capital budget portfolio".

Gov. Ugwuanyi added that his administration has provided a conducive environment for teaching and learning in both primary and secondary schools across the state and also "ensured that our tertiary institutions are functional and stable".

The governor therefore expressed optimism that the University when completed, will create employment, especially for the youth as well as provide the much-needed manpower for the industrial and technological growth of the country.

"As we are aware, one of the greatest challenges of this country is youth unemployment. An entrepreneurial University will address the issue of youth unemployment by making graduates not only to be self employed, but also employers of labour themselves.

"I, therefore, salute the courage and vision of this consummate entrepreneur, Dr. Samuel Maduka Onyishi in proposing this entrepreneurial University. This is where Nigeria should be in a technology-driven 21st Century", he said.

Earlier in his address, Dr. Onyishi who thanked God for his goodness and appreciated the entire members of his family for their support, prayers and motivation, also applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his "presence, unconditional support, encouragement and solidarity".

Dr. Onyishi revealed that he did not conceive the University as another business, but "as a social service which should improve the lives of people of all races, mould for limitless attainments, children of all people of the world, irrespective of creed or class".

He pointed out that "the vision is to have a citadel of learning in all ramifications, founded on the best principles and run on the best ethical practices", maintaining that the institution is determined to build structures that would stand the test of time.

He equally appreciated the host community for providing the enabling environment for the project, reiterating his commitment to the take off of the University.

In their goodwill messages, the Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Senator Chukwuka Utazi and the Transition Committee Chairman of Igbo-Etiti LGA, Hon. Ikenna Nwodo, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi and the proprietor of the University for their foresight and commitment to education and pledged their support towards the success of the project for the wellbeing of the people.

Dignitaries at the event include the former state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Engr. Vita Abba, Leader of House, Rt. Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu, member representing Igbo-Etiti East Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ezenta Ezeani, State Commissioner for Transport, Rt. Hon. Mathias Ekweremadu, Chief Ikeje Asogwa, Hon. Cornel Onwubuya, traditional rulers, among others.

Enugu State is truly in the hands of God!##