₦airaland Forum

The Enugu State Government has called on eligible youths across the state to take advantage of the ongoing recruitment exercise into the Nigerian Army, announcing that applications for the 91 Regular Recruits Intake are currently open.

In a public service announcement issued on Thursday, the government said the application process, which is free of charge, commenced on March 30 and will run until May 17, 2026.

According to the statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Agbo, interested applicants are required to submit their applications online via the official recruitment portal of the Nigerian Army, recruitment.army.mil.ng⁠


The statement explained that all applications would undergo an online screening process, after which successful candidates would be shortlisted for a physical screening exercise scheduled to hold at the Headquarters of the 82 Division, Abakpa Barracks, Enugu.

While encouraging qualified youths in the state to participate, the government stressed the importance of meeting the application deadline and ensuring that all submissions are completed through the designated portal.

It added that the recruitment exercise presents a valuable opportunity for young people to serve the nation while building a career in the Armed Forces.

Governor Mbah is the first Nigerian governor to embark on the construction of brand new Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres in every political ward across the state. All the 260 PHCs are currently at various stages of completion, equipping, furnishing, and staffing.
Mbah inherited… pic.twitter.com/qE6ThogVRN

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) April 9, 2026

Jim Ovia, Chairman of Zenith Bank, is set to receive approximately N50.7 billion from the bank’s final dividend for the 2025 financial year.

The lender declared a final dividend of N8.75 per share, and with Ovia’s total holdings of 5.8 billion shares including 4.15 billion directly and 1.66 billion indirectly he emerges as the largest beneficiary.

While his total number of shares increased from 5.08 billion in 2024, his percentage stake in the bank fell from 16.19% to 14.13%. Combined with a previously declared N1.25 interim dividend, Ovia’s total earnings from Zenith Bank dividends are even higher.

Other top executives also saw their shareholdings and dividend earnings rise. Group Managing Director Adaora Umeoji increased her stake to 287 million shares, earning an estimated N2.5 billion in final dividends.

Several directors will receive payouts proportional to their shareholdings:

Henry Oroh – N275 million (31.43 million shares)
Adobi Nwapa – N263.8 million (30.16 million shares)
Akindele Ogunranti – N245.9 million (28.1 million shares)
Lawani Adamu – N116.4 million (13.3 million shares)
Louis Odom – N113.6 million (12.98 million shares)

Among non-executive directors, payouts are smaller:

Chuks Emma Okoh – N5.4 million (619,776 shares)
Juliet Ehimuan – N1.1 million (128,906 shares)
Pamela Mimi Yough – N1.4 million (159,941 shares)
Independent non-executive directors without shareholdings, including Mustafa Bello, Al-Mujtaba Abubakar, Omobola Ogunfowora, Peter Bamkole, and Rislana Abdulazeez, are not eligible for dividends.

Zenith Bank intends to distribute a total of N359 billion as a final dividend, bringing total dividends for 2025 to approximately N410.7 billion, pending approval at the upcoming annual general meeting.

The bank posted a net profit of N1.04 trillion, up slightly from N1.03 trillion in 2024, with gross earnings rising to N4.19 trillion. Total assets grew to N29.96 trillion, customer deposits reached N22.68 trillion, and total equity increased to N3.67 trillion.

Shareholders will approve the final dividend at the annual general meeting before payments are made.

Governor Peter Mbah has made good his threat to wield the big stick on illegal revenue collectors and extortionists making life difficult for Enugu residents.

While Mbah, today, announced an immediate and indefinite suspension of daily toll collection from who have no lockup shops, declaring it as illegal, the Enugu State Police Command on the same day arraigned two before an Enugu Magistrate Court for stealing and forgery of receipts and illegal revenue collection for the registration of native doctors in the state.

Governor Mbah gave the order on the suspension of daily revenue collection from petty traders at a stakeholders' meeting on the clarification and harmonisation of revenue collection in markets across the state organised by the organised by the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service at the Old Government Lodge, Enugu.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Prof Chidiebere Onyia, the governor said the action was in line with the new tax laws meant to support the poor, adding that a taskforce chaired by the SSG had been put in place to ensure maximum compliance, vowing that anyone caught collecting the 100 or 200 Naira daily toll revenue, either for the government or an individual, would face the full weight of the law.

Mbah further charged the local government chairmen, traditional rulers, market leaders, the Presidents-General, and civil society organisations, and the public to report to the taskforce team any violation of the directive.

While stating that the order did not affect traders in the lockup shops, who pay 30,000 or 36,000 Naira annually, he emphasised that the administration’s aversion to any actions that escalates the people's sufferings.

Meanwhile, the police has arraigned Mr. Christopher Ifeanyi, aged 65, and Chinenye Ugwu, a female, before an Enugu North Magistrate Court over the registration of native doctors with forged receipts of Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State, presenting the same as genuine in order to defraud inspecting members of the public.

The three-count charge sheet marked MEN/153C/2026, read, “That you Christopher İfeanyi 'm', Ugwu Chinenye 'f’ and others now at large on the 31st day of March, 2026 at Enugu North Local Government Secretariat, Enugu, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did conspire among yourselves to commit felony to wit: Stealing, Forgery and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 495(a) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria 2004.

“That you and others now at large on the same date, time and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District did steal the total sum of Seven Hundred Thousand Naira (N700,000.00), property of Enugu State Government.

“That you did forge Enugu North Local Government Receipts for registration of native doctors with intent that it may be used or acted upon as genuine, knowing same to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 436 and punishable under Section 443(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria 2004.”

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges after which His Worship, O.S Chukwuani, adjourned the matter to May 8.

The Police Prosecutor was Rosemary Ojobo, while State Counsel, Onyinye Ugwu, held a watching brief for the Department of Public Prosecution, DPP.

The Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, has hailed Governor Peter Mbah's security strategy, including huge investment in technology, urging other Nigerian governors to understudy him.

Aba described Mbah's approach as a model for combating insecurity and safeguarding lives and property.

He made the call on Easter Monday during a birthday Eucharistic service held at Wesley Cathedral to mark the 60th anniversary of the Archbishop of the Methodist Archdiocese of Enugu, Most Rev. Christopher Ede, and his twin brother, Hon. Peter Edeh.

Speaking at the service the Prelate recounted his visit to the state’s Command and Control Centre, where he observed what he described as advanced, technology-driven security infrastructure put in place by Governor Mbah.

According to him, the facilities have the capacity to monitor activities across the state in real time and aid swift response to security threats.

“The other day, I was with Governor Peter Mbah. He took me to the Command and Control Centre and I saw the whole Enugu State. And because I wanted to test him, I said, ‘Can you show me where my Archbishop lives?’ and before I knew it, he zoomed the cameras wider and I saw workers walking around… and I said, ‘Oh my God.’”

The Prelate commended the governor for prioritising the safety of residents, noting that his administration had demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting lives and property.

“You're a man of the people, and when it comes to security you don’t joke with it. Whoever cares for others, I will like to queue with the person,” he added.

In his remarks, Archbishop Ede expressed gratitude to the governor for honouring the occasion, describing his presence as a demonstration of genuine support and appreciation.

“This is a great honour, Your Excellency, that you’ve come here to celebrate us. That tells me it’s not all about our work, but also about appreciating my person and what God is doing through me.

“This church loves you. We stood with you and we’re standing with you. Thank you so much for coming, and we will continue to pray for you,” he said.

Speaking at the event, Governor Mbah, who launched a book authored by the Archbishop, entitled "Start Well, Finish Strong: Leadership Principles for Ministers and Organisational Decision-Makers," lauded the book as inspirational.

He described the it as both enlightening and impactful, while extolling the virtues of the celebrant as a man of humility, service, and excellence.

“We are here for three reasons: to celebrate the birthday, to celebrate the Archbishop and his twin, and to celebrate what the Archbishop has done,” Mbah said.

“It’s truly a milestone, marking a diamond jubilee. Your life is an epitome of the raw materials of greatness—humility and service,” he added.

The governor noted his personal connection with the Archbishop, recalling their interactions during his campaign period, particularly discussions centred on social services, education, and healthcare.

“You have indeed become a light to many. You’ve shown that we are not restricted by the circumstances of our birth. From humble beginnings, you have risen to inspire countless people,” he said.

Mbah further commended the cleric’s passion for community development, charity, and poverty reduction, describing him as a worthy son of Enugu State whose impact transcends geographical boundaries.

“You’ve taught us that greatness is not about social status, but about service. On a day like this, we can only thank God for your life of inspiration,” the governor concluded.

When Governor Mbah ordered the outright demolition of the long-decayed structures at the expansive premises of GTC in the premium, high-value GRA in Enugu, directly opposite the Shoprite Mall, habitual naysayers and purveyors of fake news said it was a land-grabbing scheme.… pic.twitter.com/QH161a85c0

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) April 6, 2026

The newly completed Accident and Emergency Unit at ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane, is ready for commissioning.
Governor Mbah remains committed to delivering an efficient, accessible, and affordable healthcare system for Ndi Enugu, from primary to secondary and tertiary levels… pic.twitter.com/MU2Xcy8us3

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) April 5, 2026

The Enugu State Government, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, has procured and distributed rain capes and boots to all personnel of the State Forest Guard to sustain year-round security operations.

The equipment, deployed through the Office of the Commander, Forest Guard, is to ensure uninterrupted operations across forest and rural terrains as the state enters the peak rainy season.

Security experts note that criminal elements often exploit adverse weather to evade detection and carry out attacks, but with this intervention, the state has effectively denied them that advantage.

The Forest Guard will now sustain bush-combing operations, deep forest patrols, and night surveillance without limitation.

The move reinforces Governor Mbah’s proactive security strategy, which prioritises operational readiness, personnel welfare, and total terrain dominance.

At last, a brand new 40 KM dual carriageway linking Nkanu East and Isi-Uzo LGAs, creating a vital traffic corridor from the Enugu–Abakaliki Expressway (off Owo Junction) through Obahu, Ama Nkanu, Umualor, and Ikem. pic.twitter.com/wiPfp7k2vA

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) March 30, 2026

Traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and women groups in Awgu Local Government Area have described the newly constructed Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centre in Ogbaku as a “lifeline” for the people, as they overwhelmingly endorsed Governor Peter Mbah for a second term in office.

The commendation came during the governor’s quarterly supervisory visit to the facility, where he held an interactive session with traditional rulers, presidents-general, youth groups, farmers, Ward Development Committees, women groups, and patients.

The stakeholders also applauded the administration for ongoing road projects spanning over 55 kilometres across the council area, noting that the interventions had significantly improved connectivity and eased long-standing challenges.

Speaking on behalf of the Ogbaku community, a traditional ruler, Igwe M.O. Egbo, expressed gratitude for the siting of the hospital, describing it as a critical intervention for both the young and the elderly.

“On behalf of the entire people of Ogbaku, I appreciate you for this laudable project. This hospital is a lifeline for our people. We urge the deployment of more health workers to ensure 24-hour services,” he said, assuring the governor of the community’s unwavering support.

Corroborating the monarch, the Coordinating President-General of Awgu LGA, Chief Collins Okere, said the facility represented the fulfilment of a long-held dream.

“I inspected the hospital before your arrival, and I must say it is wonderful and well equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. We will guard this project jealously and ensure it serves its purpose. We are also assuring you of our support for your second tenure,” he stated.

Religious leaders were not left out in their commendations. Rev. Fr. Valentine Azubuike lauded the project and called for adequate staffing, while Rev. Fr. Donald Okechukwu described the facility as a divine intervention, though he appealed for similar projects in neighbouring communities.

Women groups in the area were particularly emphatic in their endorsement of the governor. The Awgu Women Leader, Mrs. Franscia Uzo, described the hospital as “life support” for the people, stressing its accessibility and impact.

“We cannot thank you enough for restoring sanity in Enugu State. This well-equipped hospital is a lifeline for us, especially women and children. On our part, we are solidly behind your re-election in 2027,” she declared.

Community stakeholders also commended the administration’s broader development strides. Chairman of the PDC, Sanitarian Chidiebere Okechukwu, praised the inclusion of gratuity payments in the state budget and highlighted projects such as smart schools as enduring legacies that would ensure a better future for children in the state.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Awgu LGA, Hon. Uchenna Okolo, said the council area had become a major beneficiary of the administration’s “audacious development agenda.”

He listed key interventions to include the revamp of the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, rehabilitation of the Awgu Games Village, ongoing road construction across Ituku and other communities, and the proposed bus terminal, noting that the people had resolved to support the governor.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, underscored the administration’s commitment to healthcare, describing it as central to economic development.

She highlighted the approval for mass recruitment of health workers, improved maternal and child health outcomes, and sustained support for essential medicines and nutrition programmes.

Adding his voice, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, commended Governor Mbah for what he described as unprecedented investment in the health sector, noting that the administration’s policies had repositioned primary healthcare as the foundation of the state’s health system and significantly improved service delivery across communities.

Also speaking, the World Health Organization (WHO) South East Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Igboekwu Chukwumuanya, urged other states to emulate Enugu’s healthcare model.

“This is my second visit to this facility. What we are seeing here is highly commendable. The Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres in Enugu have become a gold standard in Nigeria. Other states must emulate this level of commitment to healthcare delivery,” he said, reaffirming WHO’s continued partnership with the state.

Responding, Governor Mbah said the interactive session was designed to obtain firsthand feedback from the people and ensure that government projects were meeting their needs.

He disclosed that his administration had approved the recruitment of 2,250 health workers to bridge existing gaps and ensure 24-hour operations across facilities.

“We conducted a gap analysis and discovered a shortfall of about 2,000 health personnel. That informed our decision to recruit. The process is ongoing, and we encourage communities to nominate qualified professionals,” he said.

The governor added that the facilities were equipped with solar power, running water, and staff quarters to guarantee uninterrupted services, while also integrating an Electronic Medical Records system to enhance efficiency.

He further noted that the state was expanding access to potable water across 127 communities and strengthening emergency response systems through ambulance aggregation centres.

“Our goal is to ensure that no woman dies during childbirth. We have reduced maternal and infant mortality rates by over 80 per cent, but we will not relent until we achieve zero preventable deaths,” he stated.

On infrastructure, Mbah reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive development, noting that similar healthcare facilities were being replicated across all 260 electoral wards in the state.

He urged the people to take ownership of the projects and protect them from vandalism, assuring that government would continue to provide the necessary resources for optimal performance.

The 300 bed international hospital in ENUGU Nigeria will be a game changer, when it's fully equipped.
Peter Mbah has done a great job here. pic.twitter.com/TXOWf3Byhl

— $amak🎲🌐 (@samak1233) March 28, 2026

NEW: Free school uniforms promised by Governor Mbah are now fully ready for delivery to all 267 Smart Green Schools across Enugu State, marking yet another bold step in translating vision into reality.

The uniforms are produced at Enugu Garment Factory in Emene, a fast-rising hub for large-scale garment production, skills development, and job creation, powering local industry while supporting Enugu’s education revolution.

Today, the Chairman of Awgu LGA, Hon. Uchenna Okolo, took delivery of uniforms for all Smart Green Schools in the council from the Special Adviser to the Governor on SMEs/DG of Enugu SME Centre, Hon. Arinze Chilo-Offiah.
Tomorrow is here!

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has approved billions of naira for the renovation and upgrade of nine General Hospitals and 14 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state. The initiative aims to revamp the health sector in all 14 local government areas.

The 2026 state budget allocates N87 billion to health, prioritizing renovation, expansion, and equipment procurement for key hospitals and PHCs. Nine general hospitals—including Talata Mafara, Gummi, Dansadau, Gusau, and Bungudu—are set for major upgrades, with a total of N1.8 billion earmarked for new medical equipment.


Meanwhile, 14 PHCs across Tsafe, Gusau, Kaura Namoda, Talata Mafara, Gummi, Maru, Bungudu, Shinkafi, Zurmi, Birnin Magaji, Bukkuyum, Anka, Bakura, and Maradun LGAs will undergo renovation and expansion, with allocations ranging from N1 billion to N1.5 billion per facility.

Governor Lawal presented an N861.3 billion budget for 2026, which was later signed into law as N871.337 billion. With 83% dedicated to capital expenditure, the budget emphasizes health, infrastructure, security, education, and agriculture.

New Enugu Smart City, Governor Peter Mbah’s flagship urban development, is a purpose-built, technology-enabled city-within-a-city, with infrastructure delivered to global standards.#kepukepuTv #smartcity pic.twitter.com/RJ2wQ1LKTj

— KEPUKEPU TV 📺 (@kepukepunews) March 27, 2026

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has approved an increase in the admission quota for medicine and dentistry at the College of Medicine, Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) to 350, the highest allocation granted to any medical school in the country.

The approval followed a rigorous accreditation exercise conducted by a high-powered MDCN team, which assessed facilities, manpower, and training standards at the ESUT College of Medicine and its affiliated teaching hospitals.

Announcing the development in Enugu on Wednesday, the Deputy Registrar of the Council, Dr. Nnaemeka Nwakanma, said the decision was based strictly on verifiable improvements in infrastructure, personnel, and clinical training capacity, stressing that the Council does not accredit projections but tangible performance.

“We do not accredit intentions or dreams. We accredit what we see on ground as at the time of assessment,” he said, underscoring the Council’s zero tolerance for breaches of approved quotas.

Dr. Nwakanma, who led the inspection team, expressed satisfaction with the scale of ongoing transformation at the university’s teaching hospital, describing it as a massive construction hub driven by purposeful leadership.

“What may appear chaotic to the uninitiated is in fact a coordinated project site, with multiple developments progressing simultaneously across different sections of the hospital. It speaks volumes about leadership that prioritises results over rhetoric,” he said.

He particularly commended the construction of a new Accident and Emergency Unit, noting that the Council had only recommended an expansion during its previous visit.

“The last time we came here, we complained about the Accident and Emergency Unit. All we said was for you to expand. We didn’t know that you were going to build a brand new Accident and Emergency Unit,” he added.

The MDCN team also inspected the upgraded Colliery Hospital and the 300-bed International Hospital, a major new medical facility in Enugu, which Nwakanma said could significantly contribute to reversing outbound medical tourism.

“We were not only stunned but we were in awe of the magnificence of the structure you are putting up here in the city of Enugu. Nigeria needs to know. Apart from the African Centre of Medical Excellence in Abuja, this hospital gives us hope for the possibility of actually reversing medical tourism in Nigeria,” he stated.

Dr Nwakanma reiterated that the quota system reflects the capacity of each institution’s facilities and teaching staff, warning that any attempt to exceed approved limits would attract sanctions.

“The number we approve is what your facilities and manpower can sustain. You can admit fewer, but never exceed it. The integrity of Nigeria’s medical training depends on strict adherence to these standards,” he stressed.

Reacting, the Vice Chancellor of ESUT, Prof Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, welcomed the approval and assured the Council that the university would address identified gaps without delay.

“We will not produce half-baked medical personnel. The issues you raised will be addressed urgently. These are things that can be fixed within months,” he said, adding that the institution remained committed to upholding global best practices in medical education.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Yomi Jaye, reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to sustain investments in the sector.

“Point out any deficiencies, and we will fix them in no distant time. The commitment of Governor Peter Mbah is total, and the team on ground is equally determined to deliver,” he said.

Dr Jaye also acknowledged the collaboration between the College leadership, including the Provost, Prof. Uchenna Ekwochi, the Chief Medical Director of the ESUT Teaching Hospital, Prof. Bethrand Ugwu, and other key officials, noting that the conducive working environment contributed significantly to the successful outcome.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), South East Zone, has successfully concluded the zonal congress of the party, with an eight-member zonal executive emerging by consensus.

The zonal congress, which held on Wednesday at the newly revamped Hotel Presidential, Enugu, witnessed a mammoth turnout of party leaders, delegates, and party faithful from the fybe states of the South East.

Governor of Ebonyi State, Hon. Francis Nwifuru's motion for the dissolution of the old zonal executive was seconded by the Senator representing Imo North Senatorial District, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, and unanimously adopted, thus paving the way for the election of a new zonal executive.

However, before the continuation of proceedings, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State announced that the leaders of the party in the zone had fruitful and extensive discussions at the Government House, Enugu, where they decided to adopt the consensus mode of election, one of the two options spelt out in the party’s constitution.

“Today, in line with Article 20.1 of the Constitution of the APC, both the leadership and stakeholders of our party have agreed that our zonal congress shall be by consensus mode,” he stated.

Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, moved a three-in-one motion, namely: a motion for the ratification of the outcomes of the ward, local government, and state congresses earlier concluded by the party; a motion for the adoption of the consensus mode of the zonal congress; and a motion naming the proposed officers for adoption by delegates.

The motion was seconded by the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, and was unanimously adopted.

Consequently, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu was reelected as the Vice Chairman (South East) of the APC, while Chief Innocent Azuoba emerged as the Zonal Secretary.

Others who emerged are: Zonal Legal Secretary, Barr. Ernest Mayor Ogbonna; Zonal Publicity Secretary, Hon. Henry Onwuahaluonye; Zonal Youth Leader, Barr. Chima Kenneth Ogbonna; Zonal Leader of Persons with Disabilities, Dr. Nwachukwu Stanley Chinedu; Zonal Woman Leader, Dr. Oby Ajih; and Zonal Organising Secretary, Chief Arinze Ikedife.

Meanwhile, addressing the congress, the host governor and leader of the party in Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, said the successful ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses reinforced the strength and unity of the party in the South East, as well as the determination of the South East APC to return President Bola Tinubu to office in 2027.

“Ndi Igbo, our presence here, and the number of people that I have seen here today, is a testament to the fact that the South East is APC and APC is South East.

“There is no gainsaying the fact that APC in the South East is solid. I know that we have some naysayers who believed that our congresses would lead to an implosion. But we have disappointed those naysayers and critics because we have come out of these congresses stronger as a party.

“Importantly also, our peaceful and successful congresses in the South East region underscore our determination to reelect the President come 2027. So, I want to also commend the President for his audacious and expedient reforms. He has launched our country, Nigeria, on the path of major economic growth,” he stated.

While commending the ex-zonal executives and members of the National Working Committee in the region for their tireless efforts in making the APC solid in the region, Mbah congratulated the newly elected zonal executives, charging them to shoulder the responsibility of leading and consolidating the gains of the party in the region creditably.

The governor equally urged continued unity in the South East APC going into the National Convention in Abuja.

“As we go ahead to the National Convention, let us sustain this sense of brotherhood in our party, in our zone. Beyond the congresses, let us also continue to demonstrate that the South East APC is not only growing, but equally a model of internal cohesion and progressive politics,” he stated.

The congress was attended by former President of the Senate, Senator Ken Nnamani; National Deputy Chairman (South), Chief Emma Eneukwu as well as serving and former governors, ministers, federal and state lawmakers, among a host of others.

An Indian billionaire has lost the long-running legal battle over the ownership of the five-star Lagos Continental Hotel after the Supreme Court of Nigeria upheld the sale of the luxury property by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

The apex court affirmed AMCON’s authority to dispose of the high-profile hotel for about ₦22 billion as part of efforts to recover outstanding debts tied to the property. The ruling effectively ends years of legal disputes surrounding the ownership and control of the landmark hotel located in Lagos.

AMCON had taken over the asset after financial obligations linked to the hotel reportedly remained unpaid. The agency subsequently arranged the sale of the property to recover the debt, a move that was challenged in court by the former owner.

However, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of AMCON, confirming that the corporation acted within its legal mandate in selling the hotel. The judgment clears the final legal hurdle and secures the transaction carried out by the debt recovery agency.

The decision marks a significant victory for AMCON in its ongoing campaign to recover non-performing loans and enforce financial accountability within Nigeria’s banking and corporate sectors.

Dr Peter Mbah described as the first governor to truly govern Enugu State

As road construction accelerates across the state

By Ede Cornelius N. (De Young)

As the Owo – Ubahu – Amankanu – UmuAlor – Ihenyi – Ikem dual carriageway nears completion, the China Communications… pic.twitter.com/t68QhRrSwi

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) March 15, 2026

Governor Peter Mbah speaks on security and how it fits into Enugu’s transformation agenda.

Do you agree with his approach?

Drop your thoughts in the comments. 👇#EnuguKwenu #AfiaTV #EnuguState pic.twitter.com/b23nsGZ0cE

— AfiaTvOfficial (@AfiaTvOfficial) March 11, 2026

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says the South East must play strategic politics to be at the centre of decision-making going forward, lamenting that the zone had never been as politically fragmented and disconnected from the centre as experienced in recent years.

Mbah spoke when he received the leadership and members of the City Boy Movement, a movement dedicated to President Bola Tinubu’s reelection, at Government House, Enugu, on Tuesday.

Mbah recalled that the political forebears of Ndigbo had always been strategic and were not known for sentimental and isolationist politics, saying that Ndigbo could not afford to play on the margins of Nigerian politics and decision-making tables going forward.

“If you go back in history and talk about our forebears, they were always willing to have a handshake across the Niger whenever it became necessary. For us as Ndi Igbo, we have never played politics that is driven by sentiment. We have always been very strategic and that is what has been bequeathed to us by our forebears. We cannot allow that to be eroded before our very eyes.

“We are not even at a table where critical national issues are discussed. If you look at the order of protocol in this country today, the order of succession, we are nowhere. I think we should be at number six, which is the Deputy Speaker.

“As I said, our forebears had never played a politics where they are on the sidelines, where the Igbo man was not at the table where decisions about this country are made. But I am glad that we are trying to retrace our footsteps.

“We have never, as a zone, until recently, been so fragmented. But I want to believe that such fragmentation has somehow ended. We are all speaking from one page now in terms of leadership in the South East,” Mbah said.

He commended President Tinubu’s economic policies, saying that although they came with initial economic challenges, they had helped to ease macroeconomic pressures, while addressing uncertainties, such as in foreign exchange that scared foreign investors.

While commending Igbo young businessmen and professionals for embracing the Tinubu Administration, the governor expressed strong belief that Nigerians would reelect Tinubu, especially as the dividends of the Renewed Hope Agenda increasingly trickled down to the masses.

“We must not allow ourselves to be deceived again. We have to align ourselves to be strategic; and the way to be strategic is to be analytical, be very objective, and deal with reality rather than be delusional. We know what the political reality today is. It is up to us to embrace the winning and leading team.

“Given the policies and programmes of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the president will easily win his reelection. We need to be extremely smart to get ourselves in the centre of the game so that we are not on the margins again,” he concluded.

Earlier in his address, the South East Coordinator, City Boy Movement, Obinna Iyiegbu, also known as Obi Cubana, lamented that the South East had lost a lot of ground through isolationist politics, but was quick to add that the region had equally learnt its lesson on the need to build strategic alliances to serve its immediate and future needs and aspirations.

He regretted that whereas Ndigbo were one of the tripods upon which the nation had always rested in every respect, other regions now win presidential elections without the votes of Ndigbo due to the type of politics played by the region.

“So, as young professionals and businessmen and women, we have come out to tell our people that we are solidly behind Mr. President. We are solidly behind his reelection bid. Ala Igbo has to be taken to the centre.

“We have to be connected to the gas, we have to be connected to the rail, a lot of things we expect from the centre.

“Again, we cannot be fighting everybody or whoever is at the centre of power today because when it gets to our turn, we need support from every zone for us to be able to produce a president of Igbo extraction,” he concluded.

Also speaking, the State Director of the Movement, Prince Emeka Mammah, and its State Patron, Chief Charles Mbah, commended Governor Peter Mbah for making the Movement’s work easy in the state through the enormity of transformations going on in the state under his leadership.

They promised to work to ensure landslide victories for Tinubu and Mbah.

Enugu Air, on Tuesday, received the Air Operator Certificate, AOC, from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), a development it described as a significant step in the realisation of Governor Peter Mbah’s vision to position Enugu as a regional hub for commerce, logistics, and aviation in West and Central Africa.

Presenting the AOC to Enugu Air’s Accountable Manager/ CEO, Captain Tolu Ita, at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, headquarters in Abuja, the agency's Director General, Captain Chris Najomo, described the development as historic in the Nigerian aviation industry, noting that Enugu Air successfully completed the rigorous certification process in just five months and three weeks, significantly faster than the typical industry timeline of 15 to 24 months.

According to the Captain Njomo, the fully state-owned airline also distinguished itself by commencing operations with a complete fleet of six aircraft, which he said was a rare feat for a newly certified airline in the country.

The DG emphasised that the certification process involved extensive evaluation across multiple NCAA departments and confirmed that Enugu Air had met all regulatory requirements, demonstrating full compliance with Nigeria’s aviation safety and operational standards.

He commended the vision and leadership of Governor Mbah, describing the speed and discipline with which the airline project was executed as evidence of purposeful governance.

The DG also acknowledged the dedication of the Enugu State team and urged the airline’s management to continue maintaining the highest standards of safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

In her remarks, the Accountable Manager/CEO of Enugu Air, Captain Tolu, expressed appreciation to Governor Mbah for the vision of Enugu Air and also commended him for creating the enabling environment and providing the leadership support that made the record-breaking certification possible.

While thanking NCAA for the professionalism and support shown throughout the certification process, she reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to building a reliable, efficient, and globally competitive carrier that would serve passengers with the highest standards of safety and service.

Speaking, the Commissioner for Transportation, Enugu State, Dr. Obi Ozor, stressed that Enugu Air remained a strategic component of Governor Mbah’s broader transport and logistics transformation agenda aimed at unlocking economic opportunities across Enugu State, the wider South-East region, and Africa.

He noted that the airline would grow its fleet to 20 aircraft and also commence regional operations before the end of 2026, playing a critical role in connecting Enugu to key domestic and international markets and facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and mobility.

He commended Enugu Air’s operating partner, XEJet Limited, for its role in guiding the airline through the rigorous regulatory certification process required for the issuance of the Air Operator Certificate.

Speaking, the Group Chief Executive Officer of XEJet Limited, Emmanuel Iza, who congratulated the airline for the feat, expressed pride in the Enugu Air/XEJET Limited partnership that produced the result.

“This milestone demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships between government and the commercial aviation sector in advancing air transport development,” Iza stated.

On his part, the Board Chairman of Enugu Air, Barrister Ricky Agu, assured the NCAA that the state government would continue to provide the support required to ensure that Enugu Air operates at world-class standards.

The AOC presentation was witnessed by senior aviation regulators and other members of the Enugu State delegation, including the Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport, Iphie Ugonabo, and members of the airline’s management team.

But also, Ndi Enugu are more and more seeing the clear benefits of connecting to the centre of national politics and power:

• Under President Tinubu's administration, the South East Development Commission was established, with headquarters in Enugu.

• President approved the concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, including the completion of the abandoned international terminal and the construction of a new cargo terminal, finally making the airport truly international and not merely in name. The first Nigerian airport to be successfully concessioned.

• President Tinubu, chairing the Federal Executive Council, approved ₦24 billion for the construction of the 82 Division/Abakpa Junction Flyover in Enugu.

• The President also approved the immediate and expedited reconstruction of the collapsed twin New Artisan Bridge.

• President Tinubu gave approval for the speedy construction of Eke Obinagu Flyover, Emene, in support of the dualisation of the 21.7km Abakaliki Road from the Airport Flyover to the Ebonyi State border by the Peter Mbah administration.

• The President approved the continued funding of the reconstruction of Enugu - Onitsha Expressway. See the transformation of the stretch from Abakpa Junction to Trans Ekulu flyover towards 9th Mile

• President Tinubu approved the ongling dualization of the 9th Mile – Obollo Afor – Oturkpo highway after decades of neglect and abandonment.

• The President approved the release of funds for the continuation of the reconstruction of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway.

• Let me stop for now. Doubters should please fact-check me.

The Enugu State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has elected Dr. Martin Chukwunweike as Chairman and Hon. Chukwudi Nnadozie as Secretary of a 37-man new executive of the party in the state.

Chukwunweike, Nnadozie and 35 others emerged unanimously on Tuesday at a well-attended state congress of the party held at Okpara Square, Enugu, described by the APC national panel for the Enugu State Congress as free, fair, and credible.

In the same vein, 15 zonal executives, five for each of the three senatorial zones of the state, have equally merged.

This was even as Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, who commended party leaders and faithful for their peaceful and transparent exercise, lauded President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, which he said had allowed more revenue inflows to states, also listing the many benefits accruing to Enugu State since joining the ruling party.

“What we have done here together shows that we are all members of a big family. Enugu State is not just a model of governance. Enugu State is also a model for politics. We have shown that the marriage of parties we had was not a marriage of convenience. It is a real marriage,” he said.

He congratulated the new leadership in the state, enjoining them to uphold the great work done by the Dr. Ben Nwoye-led Caretaker Committee.

Mbah also tasked the new executive on effective communication of his administration’s many reforms and development projects to the grassroots, stressing that nothing should be taken for granted in the coming elections.

Commending President Tinubu’s policies, the governor said, “The bold and courageous policies that Mr. President initiated at the centre have allowed more funds to flow to the subnationals. This is part of the reason why the transformations and projects you are seeing across Enugu today are a reality.

“They are a reality because the President has, through his bold initiatives, been able to ease the macroeconomic pressure. We can see the exchange rate stabilising. We can also see the naira being strengthened. We can see our foreign reserves, for the first time in 13 years, hitting the 50 billion dollar mark. It did not happen by accident, but by courageous policies and initiatives,” he said.

On gains of joining the APC, Mbah said, “Bringing that back home, we can also see how connecting to the centre has benefited us all in Enugu. The international airport and the cargo terminal in Enugu have been concessioned to a private investor. It means that Enugu State will soon become a major aviation hub. Our sons and daughters can now fly from Enugu to anywhere in the world. Thanks to Mr. President.

“Through connecting to the centre, we have gotten approval from Mr. President for the construction and completion of the railway that stopped in Aba. Very soon, we will commute not only by road, but also by rail. So, our dream of a multimodal transport system has just become a reality.

“The President also gave approval for the South East Development Commission. There are also plans for the high-pressure gas pipeline that is here in Enugu. Within the next 18 months, we are to get it down to Enugu, which will unlock the energy potential in Enugu.”

Meanwhile, in his acceptance speech, Chukwunweike pledged to work hard with his team to ensure the re-election of Mbah and the President.

“We assure you that we will deliver everything. No governor has done one tenure in Enugu State since 1999. Governor Mbah’s case will not be different, more so when convention and brilliant performance favour him,” he stated.

Earlier in his valedictory speech, Chairman of the defunct Enugu State APC Caretaker Committee, Dr. Ben Nwoye, commended Mbah for helping to unite the old members and former members of the Peoples Democratic Party into one big family.

“We have been united into one big, indivisible broom. We chose inclusion over exclusion, dialogue over division, and unity over personal ambition. Thanks to our hardworking, pragmatic, peace-loving, and purpose-driven governor, Dr. Peter,” he stressed.

The National Deputy Chairman (South), Chief Emma Enukwu, urged the new leadership of Enugu APC to brace up to prove themselves in the coming elections.

“After all is said and done, political party leadership, unlike other leaderships, lies in your ability to command votes and deliver your party’s candidates at the polls,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, the APC five-man panel led by Hon. Loveth Idisi as Chairman and Hon. Tobechukwu Okonkwo as secretary, commended the exercise as very transparent, successful and credible, hailing Mbah for the outstanding transformations and cleanliness of Enugu State.

"Enugu remains the cleanest state so far. The transformation is amazing," Okonkwo said.

Others who addressed the mammoth crowd include the Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; Senator Osita Ngwu, Hon. Martins Oke, while the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; Secretary to Enugu State Government, Prof Chidiebere Onyia; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Victor Udeh; among a host of other serving and former political office holders were equally in attendance.