₦airaland Forum

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has called on Muslims, and indeed all Nigerians, to continue to pray fervently to God for the peace, security, unity and progress of the country.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, who made the call in his Sallah Message, congratulated Muslims as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.

The governor wished the Muslim faithful the blessings and guidance of Allah, urging Nigerians to embrace peace, love, tolerance and sacrifice, which are the exemplary virtues of the Holy Prophet Mohammed.

He, therefore, prayed for a peaceful and pleasant celebration, stressing that the significance of the Islamic event towards the enhancement of peace, security, unity and progress of the nation is enduring.

#EnuguStateIsInTheHandsOfGod
#amokelouis

The Enugu State Electoral Committee from the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the conduct of the ward congresses of the party in the state has described the exercise, which was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) across the state, as peaceful, transparent and credible.

Speaking when members of the PDP electoral committee supervised the ward congresses held to elect three-man ad hoc delegates, the Chairman of the panel, Prince Vincent Yandev Amaabai, expressed delight at the peaceful atmosphere of the exercise across the 260 electoral wards in Enugu State.

The Chairman added that the electoral processes were well organized, commending Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi-led PDP leadership in Enugu State for the peaceful outcome of the ward congresses in the state.

He disclosed that they will submit the names of those who emerged winners from the ward congresses to the National Secretariat.

Led by the Chairman of the PDP in Enugu State, Hon. Augustine Nnamani, to supervise the congress in Umunevo, Ward 02, Ogui Nike, Enugu North Local Government Area, Prince Amaabai, accompanied by other committee members, Hon. Okey Ahiwe and Dr. Adetokumbo Pearse said: "We are members of the PDP state electoral committee who have come from the National Secretariat of our great Party in Abuja to conduct the ward congresses.

"We are going round to supervise and see what you people are doing. Coming here we can see that you people are well organized and peaceful.

"We want to inform you that delegates’ election is a proper election supervised by INEC. And we are happy that INEC representative is here monitoring this exercise.

"It is either done by consensus or by queuing behind candidates of your choice. The list of the three ad hoc delegates that emerge here is what we will send to our PDP National Secretariat in Abuja. Nobody can change anything. It is what you people do on the ground here that we will submit to Abuja.

"The person here is the representative of INEC, Anthony Obinna, who was sent to monitor this ward congress, you (Obinna) have seen everything yourself. That is how PDP does its thing. Everything is transparent and peaceful.

"I want to tell you people again that the National Secretariat of our party has so much respect for the PDP in Enugu State under the leadership of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

"This is because since their (PDP National Officers) assumption of office November last year, nobody has heard any complaint from Enugu State and we hope that this record will continue"

At Umuenwene Ward, Enugu East LGA, where members of the electoral committee were received by the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, the member representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, Prince Cornelius Nnaji, the Council Chairman, Nze Livinus Anike, among others, the Committee Chairman, equally expressed satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of the exercise which was also monitored by an INEC official, Mrs. Perpetual Onyia.

He told the jubilant and enthusiastic party faithful at the congress that "we are happy with the performance of the PDP in Enugu State", adding: “The National Secretariat is happy with you because since they (NWC members) took over the leadership of the party last year we have never heard of any issue in Enugu State. We pray God that it will continue to be like that".

On getting to Eda-Nta Ward in Ede-Oballa, Nsukka LGA, where members of the PDP, including the former State Chairman of the party, Engr. Vita Abba, were queuing behind candidates of their choice to elect the three-man delegates, members of the electoral panel applauded their orderliness and comportment, stressing that it was democracy in action.

"We are happy to see people already lining up behind candidates of their choice. Since we have been going round, we haven't had any crisis. Even here that you have decided to queue up behind your candidates, it is still very peaceful. This is commendable.

"I want to assure you that, whatever result you that emanates from the exercise and across the 260 wards, is certainly what we are taking to Abuja; nobody is going to change anybody's result".

The story was the same in Obollo-Eke, Udenu LGA and Ikem in Isi-Uzo LGA as the visibly joyful party faithful rolled out drums to receive the electoral committee members.

Commending the peaceful exercise, the Chairman said: "We want to thank you people so much for this peaceful atmosphere here. Since we came to Enugu State we have not recorded any incident anywhere. It has been very calm.

"We also bring you felicitations from the National Secretariat, Abuja. Since the new National Leadership came on board, we have been having complaints here and there but we have not heard of any complaint from Enugu State. So you people have set a record and we hope you will continue like that.

He went further to recognize the presence of the INEC officials at the two events and urged the participants to continue to support the party at all times.

Over 260 youths across the 17 Local Government Areas of Enugu State, who are into farming business, including Reverend Sisters, on Wednesday, left Enugu for Keffi, Nasarawa State, for a two-week training at CSS Global Farms, under the sponsorship of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration.

The beneficiaries have arrived safely at the agricultural training facility in Keffi.

Addressing the participants at Michael Okpara Square, Independence Layout, Enugu, before departure, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Engr. Michael Ogbuekwe, disclosed that the training was part of the concerted efforts of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration to encourage and empower the youth to gain agricultural experience in line with international best practices.

Engr. Ogbuekwe explained that Gov. Ugwuanyi is committed to agricultural development in Enugu State as well as efficient and effective involvement of the youth and other indigenes of the state in modern agriculture, saying: “We want our people to gather skills that they can give back to the ecosystem, the agricultural system”.

The Special Adviser added that the over 260 beneficiaries will learn modern techniques in agriculture that would be replicated back home in Enugu State, pointing out that agriculture contributes greatly to the GDP of national, state and local economies.

“What we want to achieve, according to the policies and programmes of our Governor, is that we want our rural communities to be the engine room of the economic development of our state.

“With the knowledge based experience to be acquired from the training, we can see our young ones becoming business entrepreneurs with high standard of operations in the agricultural value chain.

“So, at the end of the day, we should see the products of this gain. We should expect to see partnership among these youths. We expect to see our youths keying into the Central Bank of Nigeria programmes, state Grants, among others, to develop into successful agro business men and women”, he said.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Chidiebere Emehelu, who described himself as an entrepreneur in food processing, expressed profound gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi for giving them the rare opportunity to develop their agro skills.

Emehelu noted that agriculture is a big market with enormous opportunities especially for the youth, expressing delight that the training will offer them a veritable platform “to become more experienced to add Enugu State in the map of food production in Nigeria in particular and Africa in general”.

Also speaking, Lady Izuchukwu Kanu Obiekwe, another beneficiary, appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for the time-honoured initiative, saying: “This opportunity is giving us a lifetime goal. We are thanking our Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Gburugburu) for the great opportunity. We promise to do Enugu State proud over there and also when we return”.

There was jubilation in Enugu North Senatorial District of Enugu State, on Sunday, as the Senator representing the district in the National Assembly, Senator Chukwuka Utazi formally announced his decision not to contest the senatorial seat in the forthcoming Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primaries and the general elections, to pave way for the smooth and peaceful emergence of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State as the Senator of the Senatorial district in the 10th National Assembly.

Senator Utazi who made the announcement while addressing the delegates of the PDP from Enugu North Senatorial District and other stakeholders of the party said he did not purchase the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms of the party for the Senatorial seat to give Gov. Ugwuanyi, who he described as "our leader and brother", maximum support.

The federal lawmaker added amid jubilation that the decision was also to promote the existing peace in Enugu North Senatorial district in particular and Enugu State in general.

Senator Utazi reassured Gov. Ugwuanyi that the PDP family in Enugu North Senatorial District and the entire people of the district are solidly behind him and his political decisions in respect of choice of candidates during the forthcoming party primaries, saying: "We will follow our brother and leader; we are going to be behind you; and pray that God will guide to take these decisions".

"We are here to give you reassurance that it is ordained by God that you do the things you are supposed to do. We are here to also reassure that you have our backing. Our case is not just political. The followership and backing are also spiritual. And you have our spiritual backing too. We are going to continue this support at the voting level during the general elections", Senator Utazi said.

The pronouncement by Sen. Utazi not to contest the senatorial seat elicited jubilation among party faithful at the meeting, prompting the State Deputy Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Innocent Ezeoha to, on behalf of the people, thank Senator Utazi for his sportsmanship and sacrifice in declaring his support for the governor's senatorial bid.

"Senator Utazi it will be well with you for making this sacrifice", Hon. Ezeoha added.

Earlier, while addressing the PDP faithful comprising members of the National and State Assemblies from Enugu North Senatorial District, the six Council Chairmen, members of the State EXCO from the zone and all the principal officers of the PDP at the Local Government and ward levels, the Zonal Chairman (Enugu North Senatorial District), Rt. Hon. Nze Michael Onyeze, disclosed that the essence of the meeting, which was attended by Gov. Ugwuanyi, was to appreciate the governor for his remarkable achievements in Enugu North Senatorial District in particular and the state in general in spite of the nation’s economic challenges and the state's limited resources.

Hon. Onyeze noted that the appreciation was informed by the outcome of the assessment tour of infrastructural projects executed by the governor, including completed and ongoing landmark projects, stressing that "No government has done what your (Ugwuanyi's) government has done in the rural areas".

The PDP Zonal Chairman stated that the meeting was equally for the party delegates from Enugu North Senatorial District to renew their stance and reassure Gov. Ugwuanyi of their total support for his choice of party candidates for the State House of Assembly, National Assembly, governorship and presidential seats.

He maintained that they are in support of rotational zoning arrangement of the governorship position which favours Enugu East Senatorial District, stressing that the governor has done a lot to maintain peace in Enugu State and strict adherence to the zoning pattern would enhance peace and security in the state.

"Your Excellency, you have done so well and we are proud of you. Our votes will not miss, even one vote. We will give you 100 percent support in respect of your choice of successor and other elective positions".

Also speaking, the member representing Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Pat Asadu, the member representing Nsukka East Constituency, Rt. Hon. Chinedu Nwamba and the Chairman of Udenu LGA and State Chairman of Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Solomon Onah, on behalf of their colleagues from the zone, respectively, unanimously endorsed the stance of the party, reassuring the governor that they are resolute in their support and loyalty.

Corroborating, the PDP LG Chairmen in the six LGAs of Enugu North Senatorial District, the Party LG Vice Chairmen, the LG Secretaries, the LG Youth Leaders, the LG Woman Leader, the PDP Ward Chairmen from the zone, the Ward Vice Chairmen, Ward Secretaries, Ward Youth Leaders and Ward Women Leaders unanimously declared their maximum support and loyalty to Gov. Ugwuanyi, reassuring him that they will follow his directions as the only leader they know in Enugu State.

Rt. Hon. Martins Oke, representing Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani Federal Constituency and his Igbo-Eze North/ Udenu counterpart, Hon. Engr. Simon Atigwe were at the party meeting while the two former State Chairmen of the PDP from Enugu North Senatorial District, Engr. Vita Abba and Chief Ikeje Asogwa witnessed the event.

The Anglican Bishop Nike Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Christian Onyeka Onyia has described Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State as a prayerful man who devotes most of his time at night to pray for the progress of the state.

Bishop Onyia also described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a good man, stressing that the governor is equally a peaceful man.

The Cleric told the governor that it was “because you are a peaceful and prayerful man that this state (Enugu) has remained peaceful”.

Speaking during the inauguration of Nike Diocesan Hospital, located at New G.R.A, Enugu, Bishop Onyia who thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for honouring the invitation of the Diocese to inaugurate the hospital in spite of his tight schedule, pointed out that the gesture was an indication that the governor does not segregate between the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion.

“I know you have an activity somewhere now but you moved that one to be here. We sincerely appreciate you for that. We are not taking it for granted”, he said.

Describing Gov. Ugwuanyi as a prayerful man, Bishop Onyia said: “It is obvious this is part of the strong reasons why this state has been so peaceful. Prayer works; prayer has an answer to everything and because you have devoted your time to pray, God will never allow you to make mistake at any point particularly in this critical season of making a choice of who comes after you.

“We are also standing in the place of prayer for you and the whole state and we will continue to pray that God will lead you aright. You have supported us and we are grateful for what you have done”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi after inaugurating the hospital took a tour of the facility, in the company of Bishop Onyia, his wife, Nneka, the management team, the member representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, Hon. Prince Cornelius Nnaji, the member representing Enugu North Constituency, Hon. Ibenaku Onoh, the Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Nze Livinus Anike, among others.

The governor expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done at the facility.

Indigenes of Enugu State resident in the Diaspora, under the umbrella of Forum of Enugu State Indigenes in the Diaspora (FESID), have thrown their weight behind the established rotational zoning arrangement in the state, stressing that strict adherence to the zoning pattern which favours Enugu East Senatorial District to produce the next governor of the state in 2023 will promote peace, justice, equity and fairness.

The leaders of the Enugu State indigenes in the Diaspora Forum, who revealed that their members belong to different political parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Nigeria and the Diaspora while some are apolitical, made their position known in an open commendation letter to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

The letter was signed on behalf of other members of the forum by the Presidents of Enugu State Diaspora chapters in South Africa, United Arab Emirates (UEA) and the United Kingdom, Dr. Reverend Ugwu, Hon. Kingsley Chikaodili Eze and Sir Anterus Chikaobi Eze, respectively.

Others who signed the letter include the Austria Diaspora Representative, Mr. Donatus Okonkwo, Enugu Diaspora Representative, Swaziland, Mr. Marius Onyishi, Enugu Diaspora Representative, Western Cape, South Africa, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Eze, the President, Enugu Diaspora Organization (EDO), Enugu State Chapter, Mr. Kenneth Udichi, the Vice President of EDO, Alum Mbah, and the Secretary, Hon. O. J. Uche,

The Enugu Diasporans disclosed that they aligned themselves “to the directives of the PDP South East Zone that its state chapters in the zone should adhere strictly to the existing zoning patterns in each of the states”.

They stated that “We equally support the declaration of the APC that it has zoned its governorship ticket to Enugu East Senatorial District”, adding: “We are emboldened by the recent proclamation by our revered traditional rulers in Enugu State which reaffirmed the existing rotational zoning arrangement that favours Enugu East Senatorial District and their advice to all politicians in the state to respect and adhere to the established zoning arrangement”.

The Enugu State Indigenes in the Diaspora commended Gov. Ugwuanyi “for the enduring peace and good governance he has entrenched in the state, in spite of all the challenges in Nigeria bordering on economic, security and public health issues”.

The Enugu Diasporans maintained that the unprecedented peace and security in Enugu State entrenched by Gov. Ugwuanyi has brought rapid socio-economic development to the state including Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), stressing that “it has also engendered peaceful co-existence among Nigerians irrespective of religious or ethnic background which has led to proliferation of businesses, and rise in the population of the state”.

They also commended the governor for providing quality and inclusive leadership in Enugu State as well as his novel rural development policy, which they said has “opened up many rural communities in the state with numerous infrastructural developments and other basic amenities aimed at giving the rural dwellers and the long neglected a sense of belonging”.

Pointing out that they “are not unmindful of the fact that Ugwuanyi assumed office as Governor of Enugu State in 2015 when Nigeria was in recession and confronted with paucity of funds to attend to the basic needs of the people as well as embark on development projects” the Enugu indigenes in the Diaspora gave the governor “a pat on the back for his steadfastness, resilience, commitment, transparency, accountability and innovative and visionary approach in leading the state out of these challenges to remain one of the most peaceful and fastest developing states in Nigeria”.

They expressed gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi “for giving executive backing for the Enugu State in Diaspora Commission bill aimed at establishing the Enugu State Diaspora Commission (ESIDOM) in order to monitor the welfare of Enugu Citizens in their countries of domicile, and assist in investment and development opportunities in Enugu State”.

The forum applauded Gov. Ugwuanyi for his landmark projects and remarkable feats in other spheres of development such as welfare of state’s workers and retirees, education, health, investment promotion, housing, agriculture, judiciary, ICT innovation, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), youth and women empowerment, among others.

“Some of these projects include the state-of-the-art first flyover bridge to be constructed by Enugu State government since its creation, located at T-junction, Nike Lake Road, Enugu, the multi-billion naira ESUT Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine projects at the Igbo-Eno permanent site, the 5,000 seat capacity Township Stadium, Nsukka, the Enugu State Infectious Disease Hospital, Enugu, and the Unity Park at Independence Layout, Enugu, beautified with monument of a gigantic roaring lion and other picturesque and aesthetic edifices at the park which serve as a tourist attraction and a place for recreation and relaxation, in line with the state government’s urban renewal drive.

“Others include the rehabilitated and remodeled ancient, historic and undulating 11km Milliken Hill-Ngwo-9th Mile road, Enugu, the 12km Opi-Nsukka dual carriageway up to University of Nigeria (UNN) gate installed with street lights and traffic lights, the Ebonyi River Bridge, Ikem, the 31km Udenu Ring road with two high-tech bridges, the 8.8km Nkalagu-Eha Amufu road in Isi-Uzo LGA, neglected for over 35 years, and the 13km Nike Lake junction-Harmony Estate-Amorji Nike-Adoration Pilgrimage Centre-Orie Emene road linking the ever-busy Abakpa Nike with Emene satellite town in Enugu East LGA. These roads are included in the about 700km urban and rural roads so far covered by Governor Ugwuanyi’s administration.

“On a special note, we laud Governor Ugwuanyi for making our foremost citadel of learning, the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, which has witnessed massive infrastructural transformation under his administration, a degree-awarding Institute.

“We are delighted at Enugu’s outstanding ratings, under Governor Ugwuanyi’s watch, as the second most advanced state in Nigeria on the Ease of Doing Business and third on the Ease of Starting Business; among the six (6) economically viable states in Nigeria and among the only three states out of the 36 states of the federation that have fulfilled obligations to their workers; the fifth most competitive state in Nigeria; the third most debt sustainable state in Nigeria; the first state in Nigeria to publish its Audited State Final Account for three consecutive years; and first in the South East geo-political zone to do same, among others”, they said.

Throwing their weight behind zoning, the Enugu Diasporans, who equally identified themselves “a group of like minds from Enugu State resident in the Diaspora comprising educationists, entrepreneurs, businessmen, politicians, and renowned professionals in other fields of human endeavour”, further stated: “We wish to state categorically that we are in full support of the established rotational zoning arrangement in Enugu State which favours Enugu East Senatorial District to produce the next governor of the state in 2023.

“We are grateful to the founding fathers of Enugu State, leaders, party faithful and indigenes, who have altruistically and truthfully spoken out in favour of the retention of the rotation of governorship seat in the state in the spirit of peace, justice, equity and fairness.

“We are optimistic and confident that going by Governor Ugwuanyi's track record in public office and successive elections under his leadership, Enugu State will witness smooth succession and transition of power in the 2023 governorship election in total adherence to the conventional rotation of the governorship seat.

“We passionately and patriotically appeal to the good people of Enugu State who cherish the prevailing peace and good governance in the state to continue to pray and encourage our peace loving, visionary and God fearing governor to fully actualize his sound vision for the state, finish strong and bequeath more worthy legacies to his would-be successor”.

Full text of the letter reads:

OPEN COMMENDATION LETTER TO ENUGU STATE GOVERNOR, HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. IFEANYI LAWRENCE UGWUANYI

We are a group of like minds from Enugu State resident in the Diaspora comprising educationists, entrepreneurs, businessmen, politicians, and renowned professionals in other fields of human endeavour.

We are ardent followers of socio-economic and political developments in Enugu State. We are always at home and contribute our quota in different forms towards the progress of our communities in particular and our dear state in general.

Our members belong to different political parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Nigeria and Diaspora, while some of us are apolitical.

Having introduced ourselves, we wish to first of all commend our Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, for the enduring peace and good governance he has entrenched in the state, in spite of all the challenges in Nigeria bordering on economic, security and public health issues.

We are not unmindful of the fact that Ugwuanyi assumed office as Governor of Enugu State in 2015 when Nigeria was in recession and confronted with paucity of funds to attend to the basic needs of the people as well as embark on development projects.

We are aware that Nigeria had another recession within four years interval and has not come out of the adverse effects of the harsh economic realities since then, which are telling on the country, states and residents.

In view of the foregoing, we the Enugu State Indigenes in the Diaspora view it expedient to give Governor Ugwuanyi a pat on the back for his steadfastness, resilience, commitment, transparency, accountability, innovative and visionary approach in leading the state out of these challenges to remain one of the most peaceful and fastest developing states in Nigeria.

This unprecedented peace and security in Enugu State entrenched by Governor Ugwuanyi has brought rapid socio-economic development to the state including Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). It has also engendered peaceful co-existence among Nigerians irrespective of religious or ethnic background which has led to proliferation of businesses, and rise in the population of the state.

We also commend Governor Ugwuanyi for providing quality and inclusive leadership in Enugu State.

We applaud the governor for his commitment to the welfare of the state’s workers and retirees in spite of the nation’s harsh economic realities, which has engendered a cordial relationship between Enugu State government and the state workforce, today.

We are deeply impressed with the governor’s novel Rural Development Policy which has opened up many rural communities in the state with numerous infrastructural developments and other basic amenities aimed at giving the rural dwellers and the long neglected a sense of belonging.

We are exceedingly grateful to Governor Ugwuanyi for giving executive backing for the Enugu State in Diaspora Commission bill aimed at establishing the Enugu State Diaspora Commission (ESIDOM) in order to monitor the welfare of Enugu Citizens in their country of domicile, and assist in investment and development opportunities in Enugu State.

We equally thank the governor for the landmark projects of his administration in Enugu State in spite of the state’s lean resources as well as the remarkable feats it has recorded in other spheres of development such as education, health, investment promotion, housing, agriculture, judiciary, ICT innovation, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), youth and women empowerment, among others.

Some of these projects include the state-of-the-art first flyover bridge to be constructed by Enugu State government since its creation, located at T-junction, Nike Lake Road, Enugu, the multi-billion naira ESUT Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine projects at the Igbo-Eno permanent site, the 5,000 seat capacity Township Stadium, Nsukka, the Enugu State Infectious Disease Hospital, and the Unity Park at Independence Layout, Enugu, beautified with monument of a gigantic roaring lion and other picturesque and aesthetic edifices at the park which serves as a tourist attraction and a place for recreation and relaxation, in line with the state government’s urban renewal drive.

Others include the rehabilitated and remodeled ancient, historic and undulating 11km Milliken Hill-Ngwo-9th Mile road, Enugu, the 12km Opi-Nsukka dual carriageway up to University of Nigeria (UNN) gate installed with street lights and traffic lights, the Ebonyi River Bridge, Ikem, the 31km Udenu Ring road with two high-tech bridges; the 8.8km Nkalagu-Eha Amufu road in Isi-Uzo LGA, neglected for over 35 years, and the 13km Nike Lake junction-Harmony Estate-Amorji Nike-Adoration Pilgrimage Centre-Orie Emene road linking the ever-busy Abakpa Nike with Emene satellite town in Enugu East LGA. These roads are included in the about 700km urban and rural roads so far covered by Governor Ugwuanyi’s administration.

On a special note, we laud Governor Ugwuanyi for making our foremost citadel of learning, the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, which has witnessed massive infrastructural transformation under his administration, a degree-awarding Institute.

We are delighted at Enugu’s outstanding ratings, under Governor Ugwuanyi’s watch, as the second most advanced state in Nigeria on the Ease of Doing Business and third on the Ease of Starting Business; among the six (6) economically viable states in Nigeria and among the only three states out of the 36 states of the federation that have fulfilled obligations to their workers; the fifth most competitive state in Nigeria; the third most debt sustainable state in Nigeria; the first state in Nigeria to publish its Audited State Final Account for three consecutive years; and first in the South East geo-political zone to do same, among others.

2023 GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION AND ZONING ARRANGEMENT IN ENUGU STATE:

We have been following with keen interest the debate over zoning of Enugu State governorship position. We wish to state categorically that we are in full support of the established rotational zoning arrangement in Enugu State which favours Enugu East Senatorial District to produce the next governor of the state in 2023.

Consequently, Forum of Enugu State Indigenes in Diaspora aligns itself to the directives of the PDP South East Zone that its state chapters in the zone should adhere strictly to the existing zoning patterns in each of the states. We equally support the declaration of the APC that it has zoned its governorship ticket to Enugu East Senatorial District.

We are emboldened by the recent proclamation by our revered traditional rulers in Enugu State which reaffirmed the existing rotational zoning arrangement that favours Enugu East Senatorial District and their advice to all politicians in the state to respect and adhere to the established zoning arrangement.

We are grateful to the founding fathers of Enugu State, leaders, party faithful and indigenes, who have altruistically and truthfully spoken out in favour of the retention of the rotation of governorship seat in the state in the spirit of peace, justice, equity and fairness.

We are optimistic and confident that going by Governor Ugwuanyi's track record in public office and successive elections under his leadership, Enugu State will witness smooth succession and transition of power in the 2023 governorship election in total adherence to the conventional rotation of the governorship seat.

We passionately and patriotically appeal to the good people of Enugu State who cherish the prevailing peace and good governance in the state to continue to pray and encourage our peace loving, visionary and God fearing governor to fully actualize his sound vision for the state, finish strong and bequeath more worthy legacies to his would-be successor.

Signed on behalf of other members by:

1. Mr. Kenneth Udichi, President, Enugu Diaspora Organization, Enugu State Chapter.

2. Dr. Reverend Ugwu, Enugu Diaspora South African President.

3. Hon. Kingsley Chikaodili Eze , President Association of Enugu State Indigenes, UAE President and Vice President Nigeria Stake Holders UAE.

4. Sir Anterus Chikaobi Eze, President Diaspora Chapter, United kingdom (UK)

5. Mr. Donatus Okonkwo , Austria Diaspora Representative

6. Alum Mbah, Vice President, Enugu Diaspora Organization

7. Hon. O. J. Uche, Secretary Enugu Diaspora Organization

8. Mr. Marius Onyishi, Enugu Diaspora Representative, Swaziland

9. Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Eze, Enugu Diaspora Representative, Western Cape, South Africa

As Christians celebrate Easter, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has called on the people of the state and indeed all Nigerians to take advantage of the historic event to advance peace, intensify prayers and commit themselves to God.

In his Easter message, Gov. Ugwuanyi applauded Christians for the successful conclusion of the forty-day long Lenten season.

Gov. Ugwuanyi therefore enjoined Nigerians to deeply appreciate the great reason for the celebration, come closer to God, and dedicate themselves to virtues that would promote peace, love, unity and progress of the country.

While wishing all Nigerians a spiritually rewarding Easter celebration, Gov. Ugwuanyi urged them to remain prayerful and committed to God, reassuring the good people of Enugu State of his resolve to continue to serve them with the fear of God, and to work assiduously towards the advancement of peace and good governance in the state, for the wellbeing of the people.

The President Emeritus of Enugu-USA, Chief/Dr./ Mrs. Ife SinaChi Ugwuonye-Okechukwu, whose name was mischievously appended to an open letter to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State by Nigerian American Political Forum, has dissociated herself from the publication, saying she did not give her consent to it.

In a statement she issued and made available to the media, Mrs. Ugwuonye-Okechukwu, who regretted the ulterior motive of those behind the publication, disclosed that “I was very surprised, if not shocked at the content of the publication, and mostly about my name on it”.

She added that “The content of the message does not seem to be consistent with what the Nigerian American Political Forum stands for”.

Pointing out that the organization “is non-partisan”, the Enugu USA President Emeritus stated: “I want to believe that the writer(s) did not take this fact into consideration”.

Mrs. Ugwuonye-Okechukwu commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his magnanimity and leadership, and advised those behind the mischievous publication that “We should continue to encourage honesty of purpose in all of our endeavors, with dignity and respect for all humans, irrespective of social or political position”.

“I hope that nothing like this would repeat itself” she said while beseeching God to continue to bless Enugu State and its citizens.

Full text of the statement reads:

“To whom it may concern….

“I note with regrets, a publication in the Sun Newspaper, with my name, as a signatory.

“The content of the message does not seem to be consistent with what the Nigerian American Political Forum stands for.

“I note also that my name was appended in relation to my past position as “President of Enugu USA”.

“As we may know, Enugu USA, as an organization is non-partisan. But I want to believe that the writer(s) did not take this fact into consideration.

“I was very surprised, if not shocked at the content of the publication, and mostly about my name on it.

“We should continue to encourage honesty of purpose in all of our endeavors, with dignity and respect for all humans, irrespective of social or political position.

“I hope that nothing like this would repeat itself.

“Thanking all in anticipation of your cooperation.

“I send special greetings to the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Lawrence Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (HEILU), for his magnanimity and leadership.

“God bless Enugu State, and its citizens!

“Chief/Dr./ Mrs. Ife SinaChi Ugwuonye-Okechukwu."

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has called on Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto State, Bauchi State Governor Senator Bala Mohammed, and two other presidential aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Bukola Saraki (former Senate President) and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, to ensure justice, equity and fairness in the electoral processes leading to the emergence of the presidential candidate of the party for the 2023 polls.

Gov. Ugwuanyi made the call when the four PDP presidential aspirants visited him at the Enugu State Government Lodge, Abuja, on Tuesday, in continuation of their consultations towards the emergence of a consensus presidential candidate of the party.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, after a closed-door meeting with Gov. Ugwuanyi, President of the 8th Senate, Senator Saraki said they discussed how to strengthen the unity of Nigeria.

He added that they also deliberated on the future of the PDP and the possibility of a consensus presidential candidate of the party in the forthcoming National Convention.

Saraki disclosed that the push by some PDP presidential aspirants for a consensus candidate for the 2023 polls is not a northern agenda.

According to him, “When we started about three weeks ago, most of the aspirants we had then were mainly in the north. We were talking to the aspirants across the country. Now, because more people have come out in the South and we are all going to meet.

“All the aspirants are going to meet. We are talking about Nigeria. We are not talking about the northern aspirants or southern aspirants.

“I have good news that already, moves are being made by the aspirants in the South to meet and eventually we all meet and see one consensus, that consensus is a Nigerian that represent all the groups.

“So, I just want to be clear about that, and be reassured it is not about just issue of a northern consensus, not at all. It’s a consensus for the PDP and one Nigerian.”

Saraki added: "The most important ambition now is how to begin to fix Nigeria and put Nigeria on the right course.”

The four presidential aspirants have been consulting with PDP leaders across the country on the need for the party to present a consensus presidential candidate ahead of the 2023 polls.

At his 57th birthday thanksgiving in May 2019, which also marked his 16th year in the senate, a former Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, publicly announced his readiness to leave the senate in 2023, because by then, he would have spent 20 unbroken years in the upper chamber of the legislature.

Of course, he didn’t disclose his next move to the gathering, even though returning to the senate in 2019, was not a walkover either. But as the journey to 2023 inches closer, Ekweremadu, after 20 years in the upper legislative chamber, intends to retire with a governorship bid. He has always had the idea in his head but always failed as well.

Interestingly, Enugu has a peculiar politics as it is with many South-east states, where zoning or rotation for the governorship is taken seriously. Of the three senatorial districts, Enugu East had produced a governor in the person of Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, from 1999 to 2007. The West took its turn from 2007 to 2015, when Sullivan Chime served, and now, the Northern hemisphere, is in the saddle with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, effectively representing them.

Therefore, if this arrangement, which has never failed or been compromised is taken into account, the governorship automatically goes back to Enugu East next year, when another election is due. But Ekweremadu intends to upset the apple cart by insisting he would be on the ballot, when clearly it is not the turn of the West, where he hails from and would have represented for 20 years in the senate by 2023.

However, with failed attempts, both in 2007 and 2015, Ekweremadu should have known by now that the system is not only bigger than him, but also effective on the rotation politics, and would not bow to his governorship craving. As an establishment person, who has benefitted immensely for the better part of his adulthood from the system, he should not be found trying to rail against the system that produced him. It’s unfortunate to say the least.

Well, if he still desires to be governor in 2027 after the East must have served one term, and by which time he would be 65 years, all well and good. But his chances are brighter in 2031, when it would be clearly the turn of Enugu West and which time he would be 69. But to think the system would slouch to his poverty of ambition or consider a negotiation, which appears what his move is all about, then, he should wake up from his dream, because has just exposed himself as both greedy and egoistic.

The Enugu State Government has appointed Professor Aloysius-Michaels Nnabugwu Okolie as the new Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).

A statement signed by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, said the appointment is with effect from Monday, April 4, 2022.

The statement disclosed that Prof. Okolie, who hails from Awgu town in Agwu Local Government Area of Enugu State, is a Professor of Political Science and International Relations of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

It added that the new Vice-Chancellor of ESUT, Prof. Okolie, until his appointment was the Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and was also Chairman, University of Nigeria Nsukka Chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

According to the statement, “Professor Okolie holds a Bachelor of Science degree (B.Sc.) in Political Science/Administrative Studies, a Master of Science (M.Sc.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in International Relations.

“He was a Fulbright Scholar in 2004 at the prestigious American Studies Institute on United States Foreign Policy. He holds a postgraduate Diploma in Management of Higher Education from the Galilee International Management Institute, Israel.

“Professor Okolie was also a resource person to the National Defence College, Abuja, on Foreign Policy and National Security Roundtable on Nigeria and her Immediate Neighbours.

“Professor Aloysius-Michaels Nnabugwu Okolie has held many leadership positions including: Chairman, Governing Council, Enugu State College of Education, Technical, 2021-date. Vice President (2nd), Social Science Academy of Nigeria, 2021 – date. President, Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA), 2018 – 2021. Pioneer Director, Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUBEB), UNN, 2014 – 2019.

“He is a renowned international Scholar and Researcher with over one hundred and eight (108) publications to his credit.

“Professor Okolie belongs to several national and international scholarly and professional Associations and has served in several national and international Committees including: Member, Federal Government Committee on NEEDS Assessment of Nigerian Universities, member Committee on Bilateral Relationship between DAPAD Foundation of Japan and UNN, and member, Visitation Team to Public Universities.

“Professor Okolie is a Knight of the Order of St. Mulumba.

He is married with children.

Jubilating supporters of Denge Josef-Ken Onoh, on Thursday, thronged the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, where they welcomed him back after he purchased the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP governorship nomination form in Abuja.

Addressing the supporters, at the airport, Onoh told them, it was for the security, welfare and greater good of the people of Enugu state that makes him aspire to lead the state from 2023, stating that he has much at stake coming from a background that sacrificed for Enugu state, which he said was a covenant than selfish gains.

He said that he will continue from where Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi will stop on May 29, adding that his administration will be 24 hours action that will commence immediately he is sworn into office.

Onoh said that the Ugwuanyi-administration deserves a continuation of peace, social welfare and increased infrastructural development, adding that his administrative pedigree in positions he has held were testimonies of his capacity and sagacity to deal with the state’s plurality.

He assured that his administration will place Enugu as the most tourist friendly state in Nigeria with greater focus on children and family-friendly Environment, from best amusement parks, improved health care system, improved transportation system, skills and acquisition centres.

He also promised to develop additional two major cities to compliment the current Enugu capital territory, development of new major markets, reorganise city street trading to modern forms of trading in all areas of the city, as well as development of skills and acquisition institute.

He also said he would redevelop community primary and secondary schools, neighbourhood information centres in all layouts including fitness centres and libraries.

Phazed water supply to the old city and construction of more reservoirs to boost water supply, just to name but a few which projects he said his administration will complete within three years.

According to him: “Enugu state deserves a continuity of the Ugwuanyi inclusive administration. It’s not a do or die affair for me, but His Excellency, our boss, knows the capacity of each an every one of us and his judgement will enthrone the best for the state.”

He appreciated his supporters’ solidarity, assuring them that their aspirations, desires and expectations from the state government will form the cardinal policies of his administration if elected into office.

From the airport, Onoh’s train moved to see Governor Ugwuanyi at the state government house, after which they move to his country home, Enugu-Ngwo.

Some of his supporters told newsmen that Governor Ugwuanyi has made the most perfect choice of his successor in the person of Onoh, stating that Onoh’s jobs at the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, ECTDA, speaks volume of his capabilities and counted his achievements to include relocation of the Kenyatta street market to the Ugwuaji International Building Materials market, sanity in Enugu town planning regulation, control of overflowing street markets in the capital city, expansion of Trans Ekulu-Dhamija road with the organised street trading in the area, among many other feats.

The Enugu Council of Traditional Rulers says it is wielding the big stick against members of the Council who are delving into politics.

DAILY POST reports that this may not be unconnected with the recent endorsement of some political aspirants ahead of the 2023 election by certain traditional rulers.

In a statement signed by His Majesty, Igwe Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzu, the Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, he said monarchs meddling into politics would face disciplinary action.

Agubuzu, who said by law monarchs are to remain apolitical, disclosed that the Council would compile names of defaulting traditional rulers and forward same to the State Government for necessary action.

The statement obtained by DAILY POST, termed public announcement read, “One of the resolutions passed by the General Assembly of Enugu State Recognized Traditional Rulers, at our meeting on Tuesday, 29th March, 2022, was the re-affirmation of our time-honoured position as apolitical royal fathers who are not expected to involve ourselves in partisan politics or to take sides with individual or groups of our subjects in political contestations.

“It is against this backdrop that the State Council of Traditional Rulers views with very grave concern the conduct and activities of some royal fathers, who have failed to adhere to our primary role and responsibility for peace, order, security and welfare of our dear Enugu State.

“It has, therefore, become necessary for the Council to rise to the occasion and ensure that a few Traditional Rulers do not tarnish the image of the entire revered royal fathers of Enugu State.

“Accordingly, the State Council of Traditional Rulers will compile and forward to our State Government, for scrutiny and sanction where appropriate, the names of Traditional Rulers who chose to contravene Section 10 of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Law.”

The debate surrounding the zoning of governorship position and other elective offices in Enugu State as well as other South East states by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been laid to rest following the resolution of the PDP South East Zonal Executive Committee (SEC) in its meeting in Enugu, on Sunday, directing that the principles of zoning and rotation of power should be strictly adhered to, “upheld and respected at all levels of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South East”.

The PDP National Vice Chairman (South East), Chief Ali Odefa had while briefing journalists at the end of the closed-door meeting disclosed that the PDP South East directed that the existing zoning patterns in states and constituencies of the zone must be strictly observed and adhered to in every state and constituency.

Chief Odefa also disclosed that the PDP in the South East zone has aligned with the position of the Southern Governors’ Forum that the next president of Nigeria should come from the southern part of the country.

Addressing the issue of zoning in the South East decisively, the PDP in its resolution at end of the ZEC meeting in Enugu stressed the importance of zoning and rotation particularly “in all situations where, prior to now there had been entrenched the practice of zoning political elective offices”.

The PDP therefore asked the governors of states in the South East zone elected on the platform of the party to ensure strict compliance with the resolution while the party’s Zonal Working Committee (ZWC) in other states was equally asked to liaise with the leaders to ensure compliance.

According to the resolution, “It was resolved that in the election of candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party in the South East for the 2023 elections, the principles of zoning and rotation of power shall be adhered to, upheld and respected at all levels of the Peoples Democratic Party in the South East.

“This is particularly important in all situations where, prior to now there had been entrenched the practice of zoning political elective offices.

“For this purpose, where the governor is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, the governor shall ensure compliance with this resolution while the Zonal Working Committee shall in liaison with the leaders ensure compliance in other state”.

The PDP South East ZEC meeting which was presided over by the National Vice Chairman, Chief Odefa, was attended by the leader of the Party in the South East and Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu of Abia State, the National Secretary of the Party, Senator Sam Anyanwu, members of the State and National Assemblies from the zone, members of PDP National Executive Committee (NEC), Board of Trustees (BOT) members, among others.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South East geo-political zone has aligned with the position of the Southern Governors’ Forum that the next president of Nigeria should come from the southern part of the country.

The PDP South East also directed that the existing zoning patterns in states and constituencies of the zone must be strictly observed and adhered to in every state and constituency of the zone.

Briefing newsmen after the Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC) meeting of the PDP, held in Enugu, and attended by the leader of the Party in the South East and Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, his Abia State counterpart, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, the National Secretary of the Party, Senator Sam Anyanwu, members of the State and National Assemblies, members of PDP National Executive Committee (NEC), Board of Trustees (BOT) members, among others, the National Vice Chairman (South East), Chief Ali Odefa disclosed that it was unanimously agreed that the PDP should zone the presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Southern part of the country ahead of the party primaries.

Chief Odefa added that the PDP South East stands with the resolution of the Southern Governors’ Forum “that the Office of the Presidency should be zoned to the Southern part of Nigeria”.

On the issue of zoning at the state and constituency levels in the zone, the PDP National Vice Chairman stated: “We said where there are zoning patterns they must be strictly observed and adhered to in every state and constituency”.

Chief Odefa added: “We also went ahead to make interventions for our members who are holding political and elective positions in Anambra State who didn’t defect to other political parties in the time of the election but stood by the party (PDP) in times of bad weather, that they should be given support to return back to their various offices”.

He therefore revealed that the zonal leadership of the party will make a presentation to the National Working Committee for assistance in that regard.

The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in Enugu State commences construction of internal access roads and parking areas at the permanent site of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine, Igbo-Eno (ongoing), as the State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji, inspects ongoing massive works at the site. The road project is being handled by Ferotex Construction Company Limited.

#Governor Ifeanyi #Ugwuanyi of #Enugu State, in commemoration of his 58th #birthday, on Sunday, paid unscheduled visits to the Nigerian Red Cross, Enugu branch, the Mother of Christ Hospital, Enugu, Cheshire Home, Uwani, Enugu and the Home for the Elderly, Awkunanaw, Enugu, to identify with the residents.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, during the visits, which were in keeping with his age-long tradition of celebrating his birthday, gave gift items and supports for the up keep of the residents, in appreciation and thanksgiving for God's mercies and kindness.

At the Nigerian Red Cross, Enugu, Gov. Ugwuanyi was received by the Assistant Matron, Mrs. Rita Okonkwo, who took him round the facility to identify and celebrate his birthday with the orphans. The governor also inspected the facilities at the centre for necessary intervention.

At the Mother of Christ Hospital, Ogui, Enugu, the governor who was received by the Reverend Sisters and excited patients, equally identified with them, donated gift items and made funds available to the management of the hospital.

Gov. Ugwuanyi thereafter proceeded to the Cheshire Home, Uwani, Enugu, where he equally identified and celebrated his birthday with visibly joyful physically challenged persons, who sang birthday songs for him, wishing him long life, peace and prosperity.

From the Cheshire Home, Gov. Ugwuanyi concluded the visits at the Home for the Elderly managed by the Little Sisters of the Poor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, located at Ufuma Street, Awkunanaw, Enugu, where he received birthday presents form the elderly and joined them in the celebration of his birthday.

Addressing them, Gov. Ugwuanyi thanked God for attaining 58 years and urged the residents of the home to always remember him and his administration in prayers, assuring them of his commitment to the progress of Enugu State and wellbeing of the people of the state.

The consensus that he is a man of peace and a God fearing leader is growing beyond imagination. The verdict that he is humble, caring, kind-hearted and compassionate about the lowly, downtrodden and the less privileged in the society is indisputable.

The endorsement of his visionary approach to governance and remarkable achievements in office with limited resources at his disposal in the face of enormous challenges in the country remains overwhelming. His popularity across the board keeps swelling by the day. His political sagacity, acceptance and accommodating spirit are by all measures charming.

His sheer determination in striking a balance to close the wide gap existing between the urban and rural dwellers in terms of distribution of democratic dividends is unprecedented in the annals of Enugu State.

Attaining 58 years of age on Sunday (today), March 20, His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, fondly known as ‘Gburugburu’, has proved beyond reasonable doubt that these striking traits, widely acknowledged by his peers and beyond, are inbuilt and his unbeatable sterling attributes are not easily found among his contemporaries.

In one of his assertions, the Spiritual Director of Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka described Gov. Ugwuanyi as a rare, peaceful and God-fearing leader who has continued to lead the state with uncommon zeal, passion and humility even after his re-election in office, stressing that “Enugu has never had a kind-hearted leader like Ugwuanyi”.

Also in his recent verdict, Rev. Fr. Mbaka stated that Gov. Ugwuanyi remains the most peaceful governor in Nigeria, adding that the governor is a father to all and a very friendly governor who cannot do without making peace.

The Spiritual Director stressed that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s “name should be peace”, maintaining that peace is in the governor’s nature and “peace is in his integrity”.

Conferring the ‘Most Peaceful Governor in Nigeria’ award on Gov. Ugwuanyi recently, the National President of the Messengers of Peace Foundation, Dr. Sulaiman Adejoh, explained that the honour was in recognition of the governor’s zeal, steadfastness and untiring efforts at ensuring that “there is calmness in Enugu State and Nigeria by extension”.

According to Dr. Adejoh, “We have taken note of these efforts because it is not ordinary. It takes somebody that has something upstairs and a man of peace to be able to use all the connections including God to make sure there is peace in his state.

“And by the power given to you as the serving Governor of Enugu State, you have used your God-given ability to make sure that there is relative calmness”.

Peace no doubt is expensive to maintain in terms of finance, sacrifice and forbearance but guarantees security, rapid development and growth. Gov. Ugwuanyi’s simplicity, open-door policy, tolerance, penchant for peace and direct contact with everyone, irrespective of class or status, are eloquent testimonies to his sophisticated background and extreme commitment to the progress of Enugu State and wellbeing of the residents.

Serving as a governor when the economy of the country is facing severe challenges with lean resources to attend to the needs of the people, coupled with the issues of insecurity and public health (COVID-19), which occupied the major parts of 2020 and 2021, Gov. Ugwuanyi who entrusted Enugu State to the Hands of God, has ensured a peaceful, secure, inclusive and rapidly developing state.

This is despite the fact that Ugwuanyi is the first to govern Enugu State under such harsh economic, security and public health challenges in the country. Consequently, he is the only governor of Enugu State to witness two economic recessions in six years of his administration, the recent #EndSARS protests and a pandemic (COVID-19) that brought a major setback to the entire world in terms of growth and development.

Besides, Ugwuanyi is also the first governor of Enugu State whose political party (PDP) is not in control at the national level with all the associated disadvantages in terms of special privileges that assist states of the ruling party to achieve governance breakthrough when it matters most.

Keeping faith with his driving principles of entrenching peace and good governance and addressing the hydra-headed imbalance between the urban and rural populace, Gov. Ugwuanyi has provided quality leadership and opened up the rural areas with massive infrastructural development and other basic amenities in a manner that has endeared him to the dwellers.

The governor’s special interest in taking democracy dividends to the doorsteps of the rural dwellers of Enugu State, the long neglected, to give them a sense of belonging is novel in the state’s history and a mark of conscience.

This was obviously the major reason the people of Enugu State overwhelmingly reelected him in 2019 with unprecedented 95.54 percent of the votes cast. The landslide victory was actually the highest in the nation’s electoral history.

In spite of the nation’s unfriendly economic realities and other sundry challenges, Enugu under Ugwuanyi’s watch is in the list of few states that pay N30,000 new minimum wage to their workers with the consequential adjustment, without any form of rancour.

His administration has covered about 700km of urban and rural roads largely concentrated in the rural areas. The first flyover bridge to be constructed by Enugu State government is nearing completion at Nike Lake Road T-junction, Enugu, courtesy of Gov. Ugwuanyi.

The ultra modern 5,000-seat capacity Township Stadium, Nsukka, aimed at promoting and encouraging grassroots sports development and youth empowerment, is at the final stage of completion following the successful installation of AstroTurf, Tartan Tracks, Seats, and flood-light stands, as well as pavement works. It is gratifying to note that the construction of a similar befitting Township Stadium in Oji River Local Government Area was captured in the 2022 budget.

Deeply concerned about the wellbeing of the rural dwellers, Gov. Ugwuanyi has renovated District Hospitals and constructed healthcare facilities such as Type 3 Healthcare Centres, Cottage Hospitals with Isolation Wings and an Amenity Hospital (ongoing) in the rural areas to provide adequate and affordable healthcare services to the people.

Besides the ongoing massive construction works at the permanent site of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital and College of Medicine, Igbo-Eno, a multi-billion naira project, Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration rehabilitated the former Colliery Hospital Enugu, with the construction of new structures, and transformed it to Enugu State Infectious Disease Hospital, for isolation and treatment of patients with infectious diseases.

In Education, Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration has recruited 5,030 primary school teachers under the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB) and over 2,000 secondary school teachers under the Post Primary Schools Management Board (PPSMB). His administration has constructed, renovated and equipped 1,255 classroom blocks and other school projects under ENSUBEB, and procured and distributed over 50,000 classroom furniture and other learning tools for primary school children and their teachers.

Under the PPSMB, Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration has so far supplied and installed computers in 209 secondary schools and science equipment in 294 secondary schools; constructed and renovated classroom blocks, offices and hostels, among others.

The story is the same in the state owned tertiary institutions. For instance, the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) Enugu which is now a degree-awarding Institute courtesy of Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration has witnessed massive infrastructural transformation through construction of multiple landmark projects.

These projects include block of 15 ultra-modern classrooms on two suspended floors with seating capacity of 1,224 students; block of ultra-modern offices for Registry Division (Exams and Records) with accommodation for a minimum of 75 staff; block of fully furnished ultra-modern Academic Staff Office complex comprising 60 offices with intercom facility; and a world-class Medical Centre with all necessary appurtenances for provision of quality medical services to staff and students of IMT Enugu.

During their inauguration recently, Gov. Ugwuanyi disclosed that the intervention became imperative to provide the needed infrastructural transformation in IMT, Enugu, as well as save the Institute from total collapse and full withdrawal of its accreditation. It was only possible under Gov. Ugwuanyi’s watch for IMT, Enugu to hold its first convocation, after 11 years.

In security, Gov. Ugwuanyi as a security conscious and peace loving leader has made huge investments to keep Enugu State safe and secure as well as maintain its enviable status as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. All the security agencies have continued to appreciate the governor for his outstanding support and cooperation.

The Enugu State Judiciary has equally witnessed unprecedented infrastructural interventions in its history with numerous landmark projects such as the building and equipping of 24 Magistrate Courts (16 of which are brand new); massive renovation of the State Judiciary Headquarters complex, Enugu; construction of the first Enugu State Customary Court of Appeal Headquarter complex in Enugu; and the construction of 34 brand new model Customary Courts (two per local government) across the 17 local government areas of the state simultaneously, to give them a new lease of life and relevance in line with international best practices for efficient and effective dispensation of justice in the rural areas and beyond.

Huge investments have also been made in other sectors such as investment promotion, agriculture, workers’ welfare, ICT innovation, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), youth and women empowerment, housing development, among others.

It is interesting to note that Enugu, yet to be recognized as an oil producing state, under Gov. Ugwuanyi’s watch, was rated among the six economically most viable states in the country that can survive without federal allocations. It was also rated as the second most advanced state in Nigeria, on the Ease of Doing Business by the World Bank Group; one of only three states out of the 36 states of the federation that have fulfilled obligations to their workers (BudgIT); and among the seven states that are solvent with an impressive over 30 percent Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to fund additional economic activities (Economic Confidential magazine verdict), among others.

Politically, Gov. Ugwuanyi has exercised effective and inclusive leadership, galvanized the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to record landslide victories in all the elections contested under his watch, asserting that “in the fullness of time, dialogue, justice and equity shall take pre-eminence” in respect of 2023 general elections.

As family members, friends and well wishers of Gov. Ugwuanyi roll out the drums to celebrate a man of peace and great achiever of inestimable value today, the remarkable occasion connoting with the Lenten Season calls for prayers and reinvigorates the governor’s long-held belief in charity and alms giving, in appreciation to God for His mercies and kindness to him as “Nwaogbenye”.

Happy Birthday, Your Excellency!