₦airaland Forum

The Enugu State Government has announced a 90-day amnesty window for property owners without approved building plans to regularise their properties, as part of ongoing efforts to enforce structured urban development and strengthen regulatory compliance across the state.

The government, in a statement issued by the Managing Director of the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), Chiwetalu Nwatu, in Enugu on Friday, said the initiative, which will be implemented in collaboration with relevant planning authorities, offers owners of existing buildings an opportunity to obtain proper approvals and avoid future sanctions.

Under the amnesty, property owners without approved plans are required to submit as-built drawings for approval through ENGIS. Those without existing drawings have been advised to engage certified architects to prepare as-built plans reflecting the current state of their structures and submit within the amnesty period.

ENGIS said the measure is designed to improve compliance, sanitise the built environment, and reinforce orderly physical development in line with the administration’s urban planning agenda.

The agency also issued a strong advisory on mandatory compliance going forward. It stressed that no building plan approval will henceforth be granted without a registered land title, noting that acceptable documents include a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or a registered Deed of Assignment.

It further warned that no construction should commence without both a valid land title and an approved building plan issued by the appropriate authority, including ENGIS, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), or designated town planning offices.

ENGIS also called on individuals and corporate bodies holding land under Power of Attorney arrangements to regularise their documentation by registering proper title instruments, to ensure eligibility for approvals and full legal protection.

Speaking on the policy, Nwatu described the amnesty as a corrective and forward-looking intervention. “This window is not punitive; it is an opportunity for property owners to come into compliance without penalties while helping the state build a more organised and secure urban environment,” he said.

He added that the move aligns with the state’s broader land administration reforms. “Going forward, we are institutionalising a culture where land title and building approval go hand in hand. This is critical for protecting genuine property owners and ensuring Enugu grows in a planned and sustainable manner,” Nwatu stated.

The amnesty took effect on Friday, February 27, 2026.

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says technology and innovation remain at the heart of Enugu’s transformation under his administration, urging youths to explore the abundant opportunities in both.

Happening Now: Enugu Tech Fest 2026 opens today at the International Conference Centre pic.twitter.com/t93iqFUN1C

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) February 24, 2026

Mbah, who spoke at the opening of the second edition of Enugu Tech Festival at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, on Tuesday, said that technology had since transcended a supportive role to become the operating system of how lives function.

“The world has crossed a line. What we are witnessing in our lifetime is nothing short of an economic renaissance powered by technology.

“In just three decades, companies that began in garages and dorm rooms have grown into some of the most valuable institutions in human history.

“Enterprises like Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta Platforms have reshaped commerce, communication, entertainment, finance, governance, and even human relationships.

“The rise of these companies tells us something profound: the world economy is no longer driven primarily by physical assets, but by ideas, code, data, and innovation. We are witnessing the acceleration of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

"Here in Enugu, we have made a deliberate decision: we will not be spectators in this revolution. We will be participants. We will be producers,” he stated.

Mbah expressed happiness that with requisite imagination and courage, his administration was building a resilient Enugu State where infrastructure works, institutions digitised, and where schools produce problem-solvers and technology runs quietly through everything.

“In three years, we moved from concept to execution. We strengthened security, not only through manpower, but through AI-embedded systems that allow faster response and better oversight.

“We invested in roads, transport and essential services. We expanded the state’s digital backbone and are building the foundation for reliable electricity.

“We moved core government functions onto digital platforms. Processes became traceable. Delays reduced. Decision-making improved. Governance began to operate with greater clarity and efficiency.

“We introduced Geographic Information Systems into land administration. This has reduced processing time, safeguarded land rights, and brought credibility to our real estate market, earning national recognition for excellence in geographic information services,” he said.

Beyond transforming the formal education system to one that now enables students across all strata to research, design and test using digital tools as part of everyday learning, getting exposed to robotics, mechatronics, artificial intelligence and applied engineering, he said his administration built innovation hubs to ensure that talents were also honed outside the formal education system. He charged youths to optimise the opportunities.

“Our statewide learning system encourages collaboration across fields rather than isolation, with technological systems embedded throughout. So, there is no reason the next breakthrough in edtech, fintech, agritech, or healthtech cannot emerge from Enugu State.

“Therefore, I say this to our youth: Master artificial intelligence; study robotics; learn cybersecurity; explore semiconductor design; build products that solve real problems.

“A hundred years ago, Enugu was known for what it extracted - coal. Let this generation be known for what it designs,” Mbah concluded.

Meanwhile, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has urged Enugu youths to patiently take advantage of the opportunities Mbah was creating for their great future.

“This is not a governor that will just be giving you something

that is going to make you happy today and tomorrow, then after you are wondering what you are going to do with your life.

“This is a man of vision, a man who is thinking about sustainability. He is giving you a foundation that is going to outlive his tenure as a governor.

“The work he is doing - the Smart Schools, the value chain and the ecosystem he is building around them - is what will make the real difference in your lives. Grab the opportunities with both hands,” he stated.

In the same vein, Founder and Chairman of Zinox Group, Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, advised youths to believe in themselves and said that with the foundation being laid by Governor Mbah, no Enugu person would wallow in poverty going forward.

“The Governor has given you Smart Schools and made education compulsory. I do not know why any person in Enugu should be poor. Today's world is open, and you have access to knowledge,” the business mogul stated.

In his welcome address, Enugu State’s Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Lawrence Ezeh, described the festival as a defining moment in Enugu’s digital journey, saying the state had emerged as one of Nigeria’s leading tech ecosystems, with thousands of youths trained courtesy of the various initiatives and innovation hubs set up since the inaugural tech festival in 2025.

Ezeh outlined key objectives of the festival to include strengthening partnerships, launching pilot projects in agriculture, healthcare and green energy, promoting sustainable business practices, and expanding digital infrastructure.

Citing personal experience, the Managing Director of Tenece Group, Kingsley Eze, urged Enugu youths to look inwards, saying unlike when they started and also succeeded, Mbah had created the environment for tech and innovation to thrive in the state.

“The Enugu of 2008 we started in is completely different from the Enugu of today. There is a Governor today who understands the place of tech and he is working seriously, building the very rudiments and some of the capabilities that are required to build a tech favourable environment,” he said.

The event attracted several tech giants, government functionaries, and members of the diplomatic corps, including the Ambassador of Sweden to Nigeria, Anna Westteholm, and the Consul General of Denmark in Lagos, Mrs. Jette Bjerrum.

The Enugu State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency (ENSSAA) has announced a mandatory ₦150 million advertising permit for political parties and candidates participating in the 2026 and 2027 local, state, and federal elections.

The General Manager of the agency, Mr. Francis Aninwike, disclosed this during a management meeting held on Monday, at the agency’s headquarters in the New State Secretariat Complex, GRA, Enugu.

Speaking on the theme, “Outdoor Promotion and Visual Campaign Guidelines for 2026 and 2027 General Elections,” Aninwike said the directive was in line with ENSSAA’s statutory mandate to regulate outdoor advertising and ensure orderliness, environmental aesthetics, and lawful conduct of campaign activities across the state’s 17 local government areas.

He explained that the ₦150 million permit grants political parties and candidates the right to deploy campaign materials and engage in visual promotions, including rallies, banners, branded vehicles, T-shirts, caps, handbills, buntings, and street campaigns across both urban and rural areas.

“Every political party and candidate must obtain a campaign permit from ENSSAA before deploying any form of visual campaign or outdoor promotional materials. The statutory fee for the permit is ₦150 million, payable to the Enugu State Government account,” he said.

According to him, the permit is designed to prevent visual pollution, ensure a level playing field, maintain professional standards in outdoor advertising, and protect public infrastructure.

Aninwike warned that parties or candidates who fail to comply would have their campaign materials removed and could face legal sanctions.

He further clarified that only practitioners registered and licensed by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) are authorized to erect and manage billboards or campaign structures within the state.

“No individual, political party, or support group is permitted to erect billboards or advertisement structures in any part of Enugu State without going through licensed ARCON practitioners as permitted by ENSSAA,” he stated.

The agency also cautioned against defacing opponents’ campaign materials, describing such actions as undemocratic and punishable under the law.

He urged political parties and supporters to conduct campaigns responsibly, noting that elections should not be treated as a “do-or-die affair,” but as a democratic process that allows citizens to fulfill their civic obligations.

Aninwike dismissed allegations of possible selective enforcement, insisting that the guidelines would apply uniformly to all candidates and parties, including incumbents, adding that Governor Peter Mbah has consistently complied with advertising regulations in all his campaign and official promotional activities.

The ENSSAA boss wished political parties well as they prepare for the upcoming elections and reiterated the agency’s commitment to maintaining order and professionalism in outdoor advertising across Enugu State.

The All Progressives Congress, APC, national panel and Governor Peter Mbah have commended the Enugu State chapter of the party for a peaceful and democratic local government congress.

Speaking after monitoring the election of a new local government party executive and three-man national delegates at Amagunze, Nkanu East LGA, on Saturday, Chairman of the national panel for APC Ward and Local Government Congresses in Enugu State, Hon. Solomon Funkekeme, extolled the unity, conviviality, and transparency that prevailed, describing the state’s chapter of the APC as a model worthy of emulation by other states.

“First, I will commend the governor, who has shown leadership in the party. The first attempt to go forward is to unite, and that is what we have seen here today. This panel has observed that efforts have been made to ensure that people go together.

“Again, the conduct of the congress here is marvellous. The environment is electric. Everybody is happy and our job was made easier because we did not see anybody dissenting. No dissenting voice here, and I commend the people of this local government.

“I want to appeal that every other local government should take a cue from Nkanu East Local Government for peaceful congresses that will lead to the continued delivery of the dividends of democracy by the governor himself. Nobody can develop a state without peace and harmony,” he stated.

Also speaking at the congress where Hon. Abel Nwigwe emerged as the new Chairman of the party in Nkanu East, Governor Mbah thanked party leaders and faithful for demonstrating that Enugu APC had grown into one big family.

“What we have just witnessed here is a model that I believe should be emulated by all. We have demonstrated a deep sense of unity, and that this congress is a brotherly affair.

“This is also a model which is not just peculiar to Nkanu East, as the reports I have received so far show that what we have witnessed here today is exactly what is going on across the other 16 LGAs of Enugu State.

“We have not come to struggle for power. We have identified those we want to go and represent us as party executives in our local government. We have also elected those we want to represent us as national delegates. And you all stood up and affirmed it.

“So, this is what we mean when we talk about consensus in action. I want to commend you all highly. I also want to congratulate all the executives that have been elected as our party executives from the chairman to all the other members. I also congratulate my fellow national delegates,” he stated.

Mbah, who was received by Nkanu East Council Chairman, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh; Member representing Nkanu East State Constituency, Hon. Okey Mbah, among other political heavyweights and office holders from the local government, also reassured the people of the state of the continued delivery of democracy dividends to all sectors of the state.

Meanwhile, Governor Mbah had also earlier stopped over at Agbani, venue of the Nkanu West LGA APC congress, where he equally commended the party leaders and delegates for putting the party first.

Mbah, who was received by the Council Chairman, Hon. John Ogbodo, among other party chieftains such as Member representing Nkanu East/Nkanu West Federal Constituency, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, and the Secretary, Police Service Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, among a host of others, described the peace and cordiality witnessed in Nkanu West APC as a great asset.

Governor Peter Mbah, today undertook an unannounced on-the-spot inspection tour of the ongoing 44.1km Enugu-Ugwogo Nike-Opi-Nsukka road construction by his administration, describing it as a critical socioeconomic infrastructure for the people of the state.

Mbah also visited identified security flashpoints on the road, which he said would be immediately fixed through infrastructural interventions and the setting up of a forward base.

This was even as the CEO of the construction firm, COMAG Construction Company Limited, Cosmas Agu, commended the government for the proper financing of the project, saying the company had no reason not to complete the project by October, the reviewed deadline.

Speaking to newsmen after the tour, Mbah expressed satisfaction with the work, vowing that the administration would not rest on its oars until the project was completed.

"We are very happy with the pace of work here. We have also paid attention to the quality because this is going to be a major highway for us by the time we are done. We are also interested in the timeline because we have given the contractor a strict timeline.

“We have reviewed the work programme, and the agreement is that this project will be delivered in October 2026. We don't want to sit back in our office and at the end of the day be disappointed. What the team is doing is to be sure the project is being executed in accordance with the timeline and quality. We are satisfied with the speed and I am confident that the contractor will deliver,” he stated.

On the security flashpoints on the road, Mbah said: “Again, this road has also been one of the flashpoints of security challenges in our state. So, what we have also done here today is to go to the exact locations where we have security breaches on this road every now and again, and we have basically found a solution that will ensure those breaches do not continue on this road.

“We have also identified what to do, and we have agreed with the contractor on some quick fixes to do there. Most importantly, we are also going to have our forward operating base there to deal with that.

“The primary responsibility of every government is to ensure the security and safety of citizens. That is why I thought it wise to get to those flashpoints and ensure we put in place measures that will eliminate any such threats,” he concluded.

Also speaking to reporters, the CEO of COMAG Construction, Cosmas Agu, while expressing satisfaction with the funding of the project, said the firm had divided the project into several segments where work was going on simultaneously, assuring that the road would be ready by October.

“As you could see, we have gone through the road with the Governor today. I do not think there is a need for concern. We are going to meet the timeline. The funding is there. We have no problem with funding. We have the equipment here. We have experienced engineers.

“Again, we divided this construction into segments. NOWAS to T-Junction is one segment. Zero kilometre to T-Junction is one segment. T-Junction to Elim Estate is one segment. Elim to Ugwogo is one segment.

“Within these segments that I just mentioned, we have three bridges and work is going on simultaneously at the three sites.

“Another segment is coming from Opi. We are advancing seriously.

“October is our deadline and we are fighting strongly to deliver,” he asserted.

Labour leaders in Enugu State have applauded Governor Peter Mbah following what they described as a productive and solution-driven consultative meeting, expressing excitement over a new welfare interventions for workers and retirees.

The commendation came after a strategic engagement between the governor and the leadership of organised labour at the Government House, Enugu, which ended on an emotional note as union leaders spontaneously broke into songs in praise of the administration.

Addressing Government House correspondents, the Head of Service, Dr. Godwin Anigbo, described the meeting as a major step in consolidating the mutually beneficial relationship between the government and the workforce.

“We just came out from a strategic engagement between the government of Enugu State and the leadership of organised labour. His Excellency, in a very pragmatic manner, approved all their requests, which bordered on workers’ welfare and creating an enabling environment for productivity,” he said.

Anigbo disclosed that the governor directed an immediate review of consequential adjustments arising from the new minimum wage and reaffirmed sustained investments in manpower development.

He further revealed that the administration is upgrading the Staff Development Centre into a full-fledged Public Service Training Institute, the first of its kind in Nigeria, as part of efforts to strengthen the capacity of the state workforce.

On infrastructure and workplace environment, the Head of Service confirmed that the governor approved the completion of Wing C of the New State Secretariat and the renovation of Blocks A and B.

He added that the 2026 fiscal framework reflects the administration’s strong pro-worker posture, with N32 billion specifically earmarked for the payment of pensions and gratuities, including inherited liabilities.

“These are some of the things that informed the excitement expressed by organised labour. In Enugu, we enjoy industrial harmony because of the mutually beneficial relationship between government and workers,” he stated.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Enugu State Chapter, Comrade Fabian Nwigbo, described the meeting as unprecedented in both tone and outcome, noting that labour leaders left with concrete commitments and timelines.

“All the requests we placed before him, he agreed to address them and gave timelines. We have never had it this rosy, not just coming to talk to the governor, but going home with solutions,” he said.

Nwigbo singled out the approval of a N32,000 minimum pension as a landmark decision that would immediately improve the lives of retirees.

“Someone who has been receiving less than a thousand naira will immediately begin to receive N32,000 as minimum pension. His Excellency’s words are his bond,” he added.

He also recalled that pension arrears were cleared within two months of the governor’s assumption of office, while gratuities have now been institutionalised within the state’s annual budget.

The labour leader further linked improved worker morale to concrete governance outcomes, including the end of the Monday sit-at-home and improved workplace productivity.

“We are already reciprocating his efforts. Workers came out when he directed that work should resume on Mondays, and we will continue to support him,” he said, hinting at plans by workers to formally express appreciation to the governor.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Enugu State, Comrade Ejikeme Akaeme, said the spontaneous songs rendered after the meeting reflected genuine satisfaction among labour leaders.

“The song you heard was spontaneous. It radiated the joy and satisfaction we got. We thought it would be a brief meeting, but the governor took his time and rekindled our faith and hope,” he said.

Akaeme noted that while labour’s demands were extensive, the governor addressed key issues affecting both active workers and pensioners, including consequential adjustments and retirement benefits.

“One thing I know about our governor is that he says little, but whenever he says it, he does it. He gave approvals immediately, especially on issues affecting pensioners and gratuities,” he added.

He also observed that visible development across sectors had boosted workers’ confidence and productivity, noting that improved welfare and prompt salary payments have restored pride in public service.

“Workers are no longer coerced to go to work. They are motivated because they see the impact of governance. To whom much is given, much is expected, and the workers will do more,” he said.

VIDEO: Governor Mbah commissions the Enugu Haier Factory, a game-changing $20 million investment ushering in a new era of Made-in-Enugu tech products. #TomorrowIsHere. pic.twitter.com/USTnlCVJLl

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) February 14, 2026

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State today inaugurated the Enugu Haier Factory, a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by the Chinese Haier Global Business in partnership with the state government.

This was even as the Vice President of Haier Group, Sun Yongle, said the FDI worth $20 million would produce smart phones, tablets, computers, smart boards, Android televisions, education and health technologies, and renewable energy solutions for electricity, agriculture, and transportation.

The factory, which saw the Mbah Administration provide the land and build the massive structures, among others, while also placing offtake orders of over 25,000 all-in-one desktops and 300,000 tablets to power its 260 Smart Green Schools and encourage the investment, follows the state’s other FDI patterns such as the ongoing electric car assembly plant construction at Owo by the Stallion Group and the Nortra Tractor Assembly Plant and Service Centre, Enugu, an investment by ODK Group of Denmark set for commissioning.h
Inaugurating the factory in the heart of Enugu’s capital city, Governor Mbah said the investment aligned perfectly with the administration’s commitment to repositioning the state as a premier destination for investment, industry, and knowledge-driven growth and its push for a $30 billion economy from $4.4h billion.

“This partnership represents the convergence of vision, innovation, and opportunity – to generate Made in Enugu technologies that compete globally, while enabling us to support key local sector developments.

“It means that the devices empowering our students and that support critical industries will no longer be imported. That is strategic. It reduces costs. It ensures sustainability. And most importantly, it builds local capacity,” he explained.

The governor added that the factory would also serve as a practical training platform for the state’s vocational and technical institutions; generate employment; facilitate technology transfer; stimulate complementary small and medium-scale enterprises and also foster a technology ecosystem in the state.

He hailed President Bola Tinubu’s macro policies, which he said had helped to a great degree in attracting a steady inflow of FDIs.

“This steady inflow of FDIs is an indication that the macro pressures that had hitherto prevailed have eased. We have seen the naira strengthen, our foreign reserves grow exceedingly, and a downward trajectory in inflationary trends,” he emphasised.

Mbah called on investors from across Nigeria and beyond to follow the Haier example, stressing that Enugu was ready and open for business.

Speaking, the Vice President of Haier Group, Sun Yongle, said the factory would produce 200,000 units of various product lines annually, while also employing about 100 people for a start.

He added that Haier Group was working on a $30 million investment in the state, expanding to mining, agriculture, among others.

“Haier Group is the world’s largest manufacturer of appliances, with global revenue exceeding $60 billion in 2025. We own a portfolio of international brands including GE Appliances, Mabe, Candy, Sanyo Aqua, Hoover, and Fisher & Paykel.

“The Enugu Haier Factory has a designed production capacity of 200,000 units per year, focusing on ICT products, medical equipment, and new energy products. When fully completed, the factory will employ more than 100 local workers, including our sales and service teams, and we will have over 200 employees in total.

“But this factory marks only the first stage of our investment in Enugu State. We are also discussing cooperation in agriculture, mining, and transportation, including sesame, coal, and tricycles. We expect our total investment in Enugu State to exceed $30 million.

“Our goal is for our products to be not only Made in Enugu, but also Designed in Enugu, with management and technical teams mainly composed of local professionals,” Yongle stated.

He said Haier would establish a local Research and Development Centre and a training centre to provide free training and internship opportunities for students in Enugu State, commending Mbah for his support and leadership.

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, commended Governor Peter Mbah for making the “Made in Enugu” dream a reality, citing the speedy completion of the factory in 18 months to back his drive for skills-based education in Enugu State.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, restated the Federal Government’s support for innovation, industrialisation, and technical education as represented by the Enugu State Government and Haier through partnership.

“The President fully supports this initiative because it aligns with our Renewed Hope Agenda. This is adding to the President’s vision of taking Nigeria from where it is currently to a $1 trillion economy,” he stated.

Miss Precious Anih, a student of TVET College, GTC, Enugu, thanked Mbah for giving meaning to the dreams and future of Enugu children and youths.

“You have made us look into the future and have hope,” she stated.

Enugu State stood still today as family, political leaders, associates and well-wishers gathered in Itchi, Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area, to bid farewell to the late Senator Okey Ezea.

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, who attended the burial alongside the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, and the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, described the late lawmaker as a principled and impactful leader whose passing represents a major loss to the state.

“Senator Ezea’s death is a huge loss to Enugu State. He was forthright, unpretentious and uncompromising in his quest to improve the welfare of the people,” the governor said, noting that the late senator earned admiration across the state for his courage and convictions.

Reflecting on the legacy of the former senator, Mbah emphasised that impact, not longevity, defines a meaningful life. “Life is not only about the length of life lived; it reflects in impact. Senator Ezea’s life was clearly impactful,” he stated.

The governor noted that Ezea’s principles consistently shaped his public life. “His values aligned with his actions, and his words aligned with his choices. There was never any doubt where he stood,” he added.

Tracing his career from the Nigerian Customs Service through private enterprise and politics, Mbah said the late senator remained deeply rooted in service and community.

According to him, “Success never isolated him from his community; it anchored him even more closely to it.”

He extended condolences on behalf of the state government, assuring the bereaved family of solidarity. “To the family, you are not alone. On behalf of the Government and people of Enugu State, I offer our heartfelt condolences. May the Lord comfort you all and grant eternal rest to our dear brother,” Mbah said.

The burial drew dignitaries from across the country. The Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Prof. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, presided over the burial Mass

Enugu State Forest Guards undergoing continuous professional training. The rising morale, commitment and discipline are palpable.
Through sustained investment in security, Governor Mbah has restored calm and stability to forests and rural communities that were once fragile.… pic.twitter.com/SmBm9iGMsS

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) February 9, 2026

NEW: Enugu Air set to strengthen its operations with the delivery of 3 additional Embraer aircraft, further expanding its fleet and operational capacity. pic.twitter.com/w8W0HXgxcq

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) February 8, 2026

Embraer is globally respected for producing modern, fuel-efficient regional jets widely used by leading airlines across Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Embraer aircraft are known for their reliability, lower operating costs, passenger comfort, and suitability for short- to… pic.twitter.com/guFVm34WYp

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) February 8, 2026

The addition of 3 Embraer airplanes positions Enugu Air to improve route frequency, enhance service reliability, and support its ambition to connect Enugu and the South-East more efficiently to key domestic and regional destinations.
Tomorrow is here pic.twitter.com/Pz83NYcyt1

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) February 8, 2026

Enugu State Government recorded N406.77bn in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) IN 2025, the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS) has announced.

Of the total amount, tax revenue accounted for N51.5bn, representing 12.6 per cent, while non-tax revenue stood at N355.2bn, representing 87.4 per cent of the total IGR.

The government recalled that although the state’s IGR stood at N26.8bn in 2022, it was able to scale it up to N37.4bn in 2023 following Governor Peter Mbah’s ascension to office and ramped it up further to N180.5bn in 2024 before hitting N406.7bn in 2025.

These were made known by the Chairman of ESIRS, Mr. Emmanuel Nnamani during a press briefing in Enugu on Sunday, attributing the steady astronomic growth in the state’s IGR to deployment of technology, e-payment, widening of the tax net without increasing the rate, as well as other extensive reforms by the Mbah Administration to block revenue leakages.

“The state’s total IGR of Enugu State in 2022 was N26.8bn made up of N16.2bn tax revenue and N10.6bn non-tax revenue.

“In 2023, we pushed the IGR to N37.4bn, made up of N22.9bn tax revenue and N14.5bn non-tax revenue.

“In 2024, we moved the IGR to N180.5b made up of N30bn tax revenue and N150bn non-tax revenue. At that point, Enugu State had started thinking differently and dependence on FAAC for every government activity had drastically reduced.

“The shift from tax revenue-driven funding had happened as at 2024, as Enugu State focused on natural resources, recovery, and revival of moribund assets to move our revenue into stability.

“Enugu State collected a total IGR of N406,774,321,758.87 out of the N509,947,000,000 projected in the 2025 Appropriation Law. This represents a performance of 80 per cent from budget perspective as well as a 125 per cent IGR growth from 2024 figure of N180.5b. It is also a revenue performance that has shown that Enugu State has developed fiscal resilience and sustainability,” Mr. Nnamani stated.

Giving further details, he said, “It is important to state clearly that out of this N406.7bn IGR, tax revenue is just N51.5bn representing 12.6 per cent of the total IGR in 2025, while non-tax revenue is N355.2bn, representing 87.4 per cent of the total IGR.

“As I stated earlier, most of our non-tax revenue is driven by recovery, revitalisation, and optimisation of state assets, many of which were hitherto moribund and fallow assets.”

He expressed optimism over tax revenue growth explaining that the state’s huge investments in infrastructure would attract more residents and businesses, which would not only pay taxes, but create taxable employments.

“If you look at the trend, you would see a conscious effort to grow the tax revenue of Enugu State. Just in 2025, the tax revenue grew from N30bn in 2024 to N51.5bn in 2025, this represents 72 per cent growth year-on-year. It also shows resilience in growth, outperforming tax revenue growth of 31 per cent in 2024.

“This is imperative because tax revenue is most sustaining for any national and subnational government. This is the reason we have intensified efforts to grow it in line with the provisions of tax laws.

“What we have done with tax revenue and by extension the non-tax revenue is like fees, levies, and assets is to plug the leakages in revenues, introducing technology to ensure traceability, accountability and transparency.

“So, 2026 is another year to watch out for Enugu State. Projected IGR is N870bn and tax revenue is expected to dwindle as we implement a pro-citizen tax reform. However, we are very optimistic that we will beat economic expectations in tax revenue as compliance with tax laws has gone up in Enugu State.

“The feedback we get from our people and businesses on a daily basis is that they are now encouraged to pay their tax and fulfill their other financial obligations to government by the fact that they see the transformations going on in every sector of the state under the present administration – the infrastructure, the 260 Smart Green Schools and the 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centre spread across the 260 electoral wards, the Enugu International Conference Centre (ICC), the ICC 5-Star Hotel, the Enugu International Hospital, the Enugu Air, the five modern bus terminals, the 100 CNG buses, and indeed the over 2,000 completed and ongoing projects across the state, just to name a few,” he concluded.

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says the South East must be reimagined and built into a common market and economic block in order to realise its potential as an economic power house.

Mbah emphasised that the South East could no longer afford to operate as five parallel states, commending President Bola Tinubu for the establishment of the South East Development Commission, SEDC, a clear demonstration of an understanding that regional development does not occur in isolation.

Mbah made the case on Wednesday as the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, officially declared open the South East Vision 2025 (SEV2025) Regional Stakeholder Forum organised by the SEDCat the International Conference Centre, ICC, Enugu.

“I am here to invite you to a bold re-imagining of the South East as a single economic bloc. For too long, we have looked at our five states as individual islands, but the era of the solitary path is over.

“Today, I propose the birth of the South East Common Market – a bold, borderless unification of our commerce, our talent, and our industrial grit.

“By fusing our five distinct economies into one powerhouse, we are no longer just negotiating for a seat at the table; we are building the table ourselves.

“This is more than a policy shift; it is the awakening of an economic giant, transforming the South East into a single, seamless theatre of enterprise where our shared heritage fuels our collective prosperity,” he stated.

Mbah reminded the audience that the rules of prosperity were changing globally into a new era where those who could organise themselves, integrate their markets, and build systems at scale would rise, while those who cannot, would remain consumers of other people’s added value.

He, therefore, described the South East Vision 2050 as an instrument to help the South East to solve problems that no single state can solve alone.

He, however, said the development plan must be matched by immediate action, starting with a region-wide feasibility and project preparation phase to be jointly funded and governed.

“Second, we must begin with logistics and connectivity, because economies do not integrate on paper, they integrate through movement.

“The South East needs its first deliberately designed interstate logistics corridors, road, rail, inland hubs, and multi-modal systems that allow goods, people, and services to move seamlessly across state lines.

“These are not prestige projects. They are productivity infrastructure, and they must be planned and contracted as regional assets, not state trophies.

“Third, security must be treated as regional infrastructure. Criminal networks do not respect state boundaries, and neither should our response.

“We must commit to enhanced cross regional security coordination, shared intelligence, interoperable communication, and a centralised information and response hub that allows state security architectures and federal agencies to act as one system.

“Fourth, we must align the rules of engagement, investment processes, regulatory expectations, and dispute resolution, so that the South East presents a coherent face to capital, enterprise, and its own citizens.

He noted that it was regrettable that a region where identity was common, and where markets connected producers and buyers across distances, and where cooperation was understood as logic, and life worked by collaboration still suffers fragmentation.

“That fragmentation is no longer a historical footnote. It has become a present-day constraint. The world we are operating in now is unforgiving of disconnection and lack of unity. The global economy does not reward isolated effort.

“It rewards regions that can act as systems, regions that can coordinate infrastructure, align skills with industry, move goods efficiently, mobilise capital at scale, and present a clear, credible proposition to investors and their own people,” he explained.

What it has lacked, until now, is a shared system strong enough to hold those strengths together.

Vision 2050 is our chance to build that system as a framework for action, not for someday, but starting now.

“In this regard, I must recognise the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under whose watch Nigeria is witnessing a renewed emphasis on structural reform and regional balance.

“The President’s approach provides the policy space and institutional backing for the South East to plan long-term, invest smartly, and integrate effectively into national growth priorities,” Mbah concluded.

Meanwhile, VP Shettima, while declaring open the forum, said the South East Vision 2050 was a major break from previous short-term approaches, that had not delivered the required results.

He reaffirmed that the SEDC was conceived to focus on structural transformation rather than routine administrative activity, insisting that Nigeria is strongest when its regions thrive.

“Let me be clear. This is not another layer of bureaucracy. It is a delivery institution, focused on tangible outcomes that translate into jobs, productivity, and growth,” he stated, noting that the South-East carries a unique historical burden, which makes deliberate regional planning both urgent and necessary.

The Vice President further announced that President Tinubu had also approved the establishment of the South East Investment Company Limited, designed to mobilise resources from the diaspora, capital markets, and development finance institutions for the region’s development.

Shettima said the company would work in synergy with the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) to address postwar infrastructure gaps and drive long-term regional competitiveness.

The event equally attended by Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State and Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, while Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State was represented.

Equally in attendance were ministers, members of the international development agencies, captains of industry, and heads federal and state agencies, among a host of others.

The Peter Mbah Foundation, in partnership with LinkPro Consult Integrated Limited, has formally sent off the first cohort of beneficiaries of its overseas scholarship programme to pursue studies in top-ranking universities in the Republic of Ireland.

The scholars were awarded full scholarships, covering tuition, stipends, and flight tickets. The initiative forms part of a broader human-capital development strategy aimed at expanding access to quality education and global opportunities for indigenes and residents of Enugu State.

Speaking while hosting the students and their parents during the weekend, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, described the scholarship as an opportunity anchored on responsibility. He urged the beneficiaries to distinguish themselves through discipline, academic excellence, and good conduct, noting that they would serve as ambassadors of Enugu State in their host country. The governor also advised the students to remain focused, humble, and law-abiding, and to allow their academic results and character to speak for them and their families.

The Peter Mbah Foundation stated that the overseas scholarship programme is designed to create practical pathways through education and skills acquisition, while opening global doors for young people from Enugu State. According to the Foundation, the initiative reflects a long-term commitment to investing in people as the most critical driver of sustainable development.

The departure of the first cohort marks a significant milestone in the Foundation’s education interventions and underscores the state government’s emphasis on human capital as a cornerstone of Enugu’s development agenda.

Enugu has just taken delivery of double-deck tourist buses ordered by Governor Mbah.

But this is much more than a bus, and Governor Mbah is not thinking transportation.

He is deliberately creating opportunities for new businesses to sprout and blossom across the travel and… pic.twitter.com/Upl7FJiTKx

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) February 4, 2026

The Enugu State Government and the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, Nigeria, on Tuesday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, to anchor the state into the UNDP Nigeria's Integrated Smart States Programme, ISSP.

This was even as the UNDP commended Mbah’s “leadership, reform drive, and vision clarity,” describing the MoU as “partnership that speaks to Enugu State's ambition, and to Nigeria's evolving development story.”

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony at Government House, Enugu, the Resident Representatives, UNP Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, said ISSP would enable the state to translate political priorities into investment-ready portfolios, use state resources as anchor capital, crowd-in Development Finance Institutions and private investors, and strengthen delivery systems for results.

“Your Excellency, what we are doing today is not ceremonial. It is strategic. And it reflects a deliberate choice by Enugu State to lead development differently, through integrated planning, co-investment, and disciplined delivery.

“What also makes today exceptional is that we are signing three instruments: the Memorandum of Understanding, which sets the strategic framework; the Programme Description of Action, which translates that framework into a clear, integrated delivery pathway; and the Financing Agreement, which moves us from intent to execution, with a significant initial cost-sharing commitment by the Enugu State Government. This is exactly the kind of leadership signal that turns partnerships into results," she stated.

According to Ms. Attafuah, although Nigeria was at a turning point where bold reforms were shaping the macroeconomic landscape on energy, fiscal policy, revenue mobilisation, and governance, they would not make any meaning unless they trickle down to the people.

“We all now see one fundamental truth: reforms only matter when they translate into livelihoods, jobs, services, and opportunity for people. And in a federal system like Nigeria's, states are where reform dividends must be delivered.

“That is why UNDP Nigeria has repositioned how we work with subnational governments, moving from projects to portfolios, from aid to co-investment, and from delivery alone to systems transformation,” she said.

Throwing more light on the MoU entitled ‘UNDP-Enugu Integrated Smart State Programme for Accelerated Development (2025-2027),” Attafuah said the agreement was structured around five mutually reinforcing pillars: health systems strengthening; Smart Green Schools; energy for development; innovation and digital economy; and trade, tourism and investment promotion.

She promised immediate action, saying the Financing Agreement provided a clear runway for activation, with the first tranche due on March 1, 2026, and a second tranche on July 1, 2026, saying the UNDP would ensure the availability of resources ahead of planned activities, and enabling disciplined implementation in line with UNDP's accountability standards.

“Signing an MoU is not the destination. Activation is. Delivery is. Immediately after today, our joint priority is to finalise the Joint Action Plan with clear sequencing, responsibilities, and costing, because costing is the bridge between commitments and implementation.

“And to ensure speed and seriousness, UNDP will work with the state to operationalise a dedicated programme team and field coordination mechanism, aligned with the Enugu delivery architecture, to: trigger early implementation priorities, strengthen real-time tracking through dashboards and delivery labs, and support investment packaging to mobilize additional concessional and private finance.

“Enugu now joins that group of reform-forward states, positioning itself not only as a South-East leader, but as a subnational model for human capital transformation

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has been bestowed with The Sun Newspapers Man of the Year Award 2025, promising to do more to raise the bar of governance in the country.

Governor Mbah received the honour at the 2025 edition of the Sun Awards, which took place in Lagos at the weekend.

Rendering Mbah’s citation, The Sun said he stood out, breaking barriers and effecting unimaginable transformation in virtually every sector through disruptive innovation and inclusive governance.

According to the Chairman/Publisher of Sun Publishing Limited, Barr. Neya Kalu, while Nigeria was "navigating a demanding era, we must not lose sight of the progress woven into our journey."

Congratulating Mbah and other awardees for daring to stand out, she averred that the Sun Awards 2025 was special, not just because it was a celebration of excellence, “but because moments like this remind us that even in complex seasons, greatness still rises.”

Presenting the award, Founder and former Chairman/Publisher of Sun Publishing Limited, Senator Orji Uzo Kalu, described Governor Mbah as a man building a new Enugu State and delivering results across all sectors.

“He is a governor who is tilling the ground. I think that is a better way of describing this governor,” he said.

He added that The Sun was conceived as a public trust, hence its apolitical stance in both editorial and awards matters.

“It is owned by the Nigerian people. And that is why The Sun is apolitical,” he stated.
In his acceptance speech, Mbah, who dedicated the award to his team members, however, said he was far from done with building the future the people of Enugu State deserve.

“You know that one is nothing without a team. Therefore, I receive this award on behalf of my team, whose commitment, selfless work ethic, and dedication have continued to translate our bold ideas into visible progress.

“The Sun Awards is proof that leadership is still measured, not merely applauded. So, I want to thank The Sun for upholding the values of credible journalism.

“But our work is not done. So, we are not going to slow down. This award will rather challenge us to continue to do more. We will remain committed to raising the bar of governance, deepening reforms, and delivering the future that Ndi Enugu truly deserve,” he vowed.

Speaking, Chairman of the event, Dr. Allen Onyema, who is also the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, said Mbah’s emergence as Man of the Year 2025 further underscored the credibility of The Sun Awards, as no Nigerian would dispute that he had taken governance to great heights within a very short time.

“The Sun Awards is one of the most credible awards. And when you look at the array of people nominated for the awards, you would agree with me that they merit it.

“You look at my brother, the governor of Enugu State. Who will fault him as Man of the Year? Nobody. He merits what he is getting,” Onyema stated.

Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the Managing Director of Sun Publishing Limited, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, said the awardees were described as uncommon achievers because “in a world where conformity often seems like the easiest option, these individuals have chosen to stand out.

“They have taken risks, confronted challenges head-on, and emerged victorious. Their stories are a testament to the power of human potential, determination, and resilience.

“We proudly call them the ‘Uncommon Achievers’ because they have refused to be defined by the limitations inherent in a developing country like ours, but instead chose to create their own paths to success,” he concluded.

NEW: Governor Peter Mbah has slashed all land related fees by 60 to 70%, Managing Director of Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), Mr. Chiwetalu Nwatu says. Details soon. pic.twitter.com/RSQgKBWcaM

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) January 29, 2026

The Enugu State Government has announced sweeping reforms in the land sector, including the immediate abolition of illegal levies and the streamlining of land-related charges, as part of Governor Peter Mbah’s broader economic transformation agenda.

The government disclosed that ground rent, land use charge, and all property-related charges have now been unified and reduced by over 60 per cent, with property owners required to pay only a single Unified Land Use Charge annually through the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), whether their properties are located within estates or outside them.

Governor Peter Mbah made the announcement at a stakeholders’ townhall meeting on land sector development, which held at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, on Thursday.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Governor said his administration remained committed to building a transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly land administration system anchored on legality, digitisation, and accountability.

He described land as the legal foundation for housing, infrastructure, agriculture, commerce, and investment, stressing that since inception, the administration has pursued deliberate reforms to modernise land governance, reduce uncertainty, curb abuse, and restore public confidence in the land tenure system.

“These reforms are anchored on transparency, predictability, digitisation of records, and strict adherence to statutory processes for land allocation, registration, and development control,” he said, adding that effective land governance must be driven by continuous engagement with communities, professionals, investors, traditional institutions, and citizens.

A major highlight of the reforms is the immediate ban on the controversial Ogbonecheagu fees collected by some communities and local governments. Prof. Onyia said Governor Mbah has declared all such fees illegal and directed their outright abolition following widespread complaints by residents.

A task force has been constituted to enforce compliance, while members of the public who are compelled to pay such illegal charges have been urged to submit evidence to Whistleblowing@enugustate.gov.ng for prompt intervention.

The SSG further revealed that the reforms were informed by the recommendations of a multi-stakeholder Committee on Land-Related Revenue and Administration constituted by the Governor to address complaints of multiple taxation and revenue abuse in the state.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Barr. Chimaobi Okorie, said Governor Mbah has introduced critical policy directions and legal instruments, including an executive order declaring nine of the state’s seventeen local government areas as urban areas to enable planning and structured infrastructural development.

He also said that the Mbah Administration enacted the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS) law to serve as a one-stop platform for land transactions and to drive the full digitisation and digitalization of land processes and systems. According to him, land records are now fully harmonised, eliminating cases of missing files, while every plot of land in the state can be digitally tracked.

The Commissioner added that applicants seeking Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) can now apply online or walk into designated government offices for seamless processing. He further noted that the Property Protection Law signed by Governor Mbah guarantees the security of legitimate property ownership and protects investors’ assets.

In his presentation, the Managing Director of ENGIS, Mr. Chiwetalu Nwatu, announced that all buildings located in housing estates owned by the Ministry of Housing and the Housing Development Corporation must henceforth obtain building approval directly from the Ministry and the Corporation, irrespective of their locations.

He added that building approval for houses in non-government estates within the Enugu municipal area will now be processed exclusively by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) to eliminate jurisdictional overlaps and administrative delays.

Mr. Nwatu further announced that Certificates of Occupancy for all buildings in both private and government estates will now be processed directly for individual property owners, thereby strengthening security of titles and improving assets bankability.

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ES-IRS), Mr. Emmanuel Ekene Nnamani, said the newly signed Tax Law was designed to place a greater tax burden on the wealthy while protecting low-income earners.

He urged residents to obtain their Tax Identification Numbers free of charge and comply with tax filing requirements to enable the government to generate accurate data for development planning.

Responding to questions from stakeholders, Prof. Onyia announced the constitution of a committee chaired by the Managing Director of ENGIS, Mr. Chiwetalu Nwatu, to address complaints related to layouts and recommend practical solutions within one week for government consideration.

The townhall meeting attracted a broad section of stakeholders, including heads of government agencies, community landholders, estate developers, surveyors, town planners, property agents and lawyers, traditional rulers, town unions, business operators, religious organisations, financial institutions, civil society groups, development partners, and members of the public.

NEW: Second Abakpa Bridge is now under construction. Governor Mbah remains unrelenting in his determination to expand and dualize the strategic corridor running through the heart of Abakpa, stretching through Ugwugo Nike and onward to Opi Nsukka, transforming it into a modern… pic.twitter.com/BwDPyuxGGb

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) January 28, 2026

The Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has commissioned a new digital court building constructed by his administration, describing it as a giant step in his administration’s prioritisation of speedy justice delivery in the state.

Mbah said, technological integration, when combined with judicial financial autonomy, which was already in effect in the state, would ensure that the judiciary is not only independent in form, but effective in function.

He maintained that the Enugu State Judiciary envisioned by his administration was one that must be independent, efficient, technology-driven, and people-centred.

The governor spoke and also inaugurated the Digital Court Building during the ceremonies and special court session to mark the commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Enugu State Judiciary, which took place at the Enugu State judicial complex in the state capital on Monday.

The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the theme of the event, "Enugu State Judiciary: Ushering in a New Era of efficient Justice Delivery through Technological Integration and Financial Autonomy", spoke directly to the drive of his administration from the outset to strengthen and modernise governance in the state.

He said the four ultra-modern court halls were designed to decongest existing facilities, improve working conditions, and enhance the dignity and efficiency of judicial proceedings.

“These court halls are not merely physical structures; they are purpose-built facilities equipped with digital recording systems, smart displays, secure data connectivity, and ergonomic designs that meet contemporary standards for modern courts.

“They represent our commitment to creating an enabling environment for justice delivery," Mbah stated.

In his remark, the Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Raymond Ozoemena, reminded judiciary officers that the judiciary's role as the last hope of the common man, placed upon it the obligation to serve with renewed commitment to the sanctity of the rule of law, absolute integrity and zero tolerance of corruption.

He said the Enugu State judiciary embarked on a comprehensive reform in the interest of the people and commended Governor Mbah for according the third arm of government the needed support.

"It became clear to us that meaningful reform would require more than incremental adjustments. What was needed was a comprehensive rethinking of how cases move through the justice system.

“Our need was met by the vision of His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, who at the inception of his administration clearly identified the judiciary as an area of focus and promised transformative and innovative projects for the Judiciary.

"Today, we formally launch a digital justice platform that redefines how cases are filled, processed, heard, recorded and concluded in the Judiciary of Enugu State and across the justice sector institutions.

“This transformation covers the High Court of Justice, the Customary Court of Appeal, Chief Magistrates' Court, Customary Courts, the Multi-Door Courthouse, the Ministry of Justice, and key public-facing court services including the Probate Division and Affidavit Sections," the Chief Judge said.

On his part, the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Osinachi Nnajieze, lauded governor Mbah's giant strides and transformative support to the state's justice sector, which he said had enabled the sector to evolve as a critical pillar of good governance, economic growth and social order.

"In pursuit of the Governor’s vision for a tech-enabled Justice sector, the Ministry of Justice spearheaded a groundbreaking digitalisation drive in collaboration with the Enugu State Judiciary. Some notable achievements include innovative digital court solutions like e-Litigation

System, e-Affidavit System, Virtual Court Hearing System, e-Probate and e-Lis Pendens (all currently in advanced testing), Enablement of full e-filing, e-assessment, e-payment, and e-assignment of cases.

“In addition, we conducted the recruitment and training of 39 Verbatim Court Reporters to enhance courtroom transcription accuracy," he stated.

Unbelievable! Governor Peter Mbah has reconstructed all the roads in Thinkers Corner within just a few months.
Quietly but steadily, the Mbah administration is transforming the entire Enugu metropolis with high-quality infrastructure. All streets in the capital city will be paved before the next election. After years of neglect, residents can once again take pride in living in a truly modern, forward-looking city.
After Enugu is done, we replicate same in Nsukka, Awgu, 9th Mile, Oji, Agbani and of course Ozalla Four Corners.
Tomorrow is here!
@prinnccejosh

Wide, expansive boulevard into the New Enugu Smart City, a fully integrated smart corridor, engineered with underground drainage systems, embedded fibre-optic lines for high-speed connectivity, gas pipelines, central sewage, water distribution networks, pedestrian walkways, solar-powered street lighting, comprehensive CCTV surveillance, and thoughtfully designed green areas, landscaping, and beautification features.

Every detail reflects deliberate planning, global standards, enhanced safety, sustainability, and truly smart urban living.

Tomorrow is here!

The Enugu State Government has announced plans to convene a broad-based stakeholders’ engagement meeting as part of its ongoing reforms and development initiatives in the state’s land sector.

The townhall meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, 2026, will take place at The Dome Hall, Enugu International Conference Centre, at 10:00 a.m. prompt.

The government, in a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Agbo, said the engagement is aimed at providing stakeholders with clear, accessible, and up-to-date information on land sector development in Enugu State.

According to the statement, the initiative aligns with the administration of Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to transparency, public participation, and the establishment of a modernised land management framework capable of safeguarding the rights and investments of landowners, developers, and investors.

Dr. Agbo explained that the engagement will also serve as a platform for participants to receive firsthand directives from the Governor on land sector reforms, understand their roles and responsibilities in land administration, and identify proactive measures for protecting communities and investments.

“The meeting is designed to deepen stakeholder understanding of government policies, promote orderly land administration, and strengthen confidence in Enugu State as a preferred investment destination,” the statement said.

The townhall is open to a wide range of stakeholders, including individual landowners, families and community landholders, estate developers, residents, community layout coordinators, surveyors, land buyers and agents, property lawyers, professional bodies, traditional rulers and town unions, business operators, religious organisations, financial institutions, academic and research institutions, media organisations, civil society groups, development partners, and other concerned citizens.

The government urged all relevant stakeholders to attend and actively participate in the engagement, describing it as a critical step toward building a transparent, investor-friendly, and sustainable land management system in the state.

The Secretary to the Enugu State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, has said that the decision of the State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) was driven by the need to create more economic and developmental opportunities for the people of Enugu State through strategic alignment with the Federal Government.

Prof. Onyia also declared that Governor Mbah’s second term in office is non-negotiable, stressing that there is no vacancy in the Lion Building, the seat of government in Enugu State, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

The SSG made the remarks while registering as a member of the APC at Orie-Ani Amechi Ward One in Enugu South Local Government Area during the ongoing statewide electronic membership registration exercise of the party.

According to him, Governor Mbah’s alignment with the ruling party at the centre under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu positions Enugu State to access greater opportunities, partnerships, and development windows for accelerated growth.

“We thank God that our governor led us to the APC because he understands the importance of alignment with the centre, where more opportunities will come to the people of Enugu,” Onyia said.

“Since Enugu is now fully APC, we will continue to support the vision and actions of President Bola Tinubu.”

Reaffirming support for Governor Mbah’s re-election in 2027, Onyia declared that continuity was inevitable given the governor’s performance.

“We don’t have any vacancy in the Lion Building. The culture is that anyone who goes for a first term goes for a second term, talk more of a governor who is delivering outstanding results. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is working. His second term is non-negotiable,” he added.

The SSG credited the governor with repositioning Enugu State across critical sectors, including security, road infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic management, despite limited financial resources.

“Governor Mbah has delivered remarkably with minimal resources and has grown the state’s economy astronomically. This is the kind of leadership that inspires confidence. I thank him especially for what he has done for the people of Enugu and Enugu South Local Government,” Onyia stated.

He further expressed confidence that Enugu State would soon emerge as one of the leading states in APC membership nationwide, urging residents to mobilise their families and communities to participate actively in the party’s e-registration exercise.

“Reach out to your family members and explain why this alignment with the centre is necessary. If Governor Mbah has driven us this far without any accident, he will not drive us into any accident in the APC. Everyone, from top to bottom, is in support of the governor. APC is the direction Enugu must go,” he said.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Caleb Onyema Ani, also endorsed the governor, describing him as a hardworking and visionary leader whose achievements have transformed the state within a short period.

“Enugu State has not witnessed such a quintessential and workaholic governor in recent times. The people of Enugu South are happy with his performance, from the construction of Smart Green Schools and Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres to road infrastructure and human capital development. This is why our people must come out en masse to register in the APC,” Ani stated.

Other speakers at the event included the Commissioner for Local Government, Deacon Okey Ogbodo; former chairmen of Enugu South Local Government Area, Hon. Monday Eneh and Hon. Sam Onyia; and former Chief Whip of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Theresa Egbo.

They commended Governor Mbah’s transformational leadership and developmental strides within two years in office, assuring continued support from the people of/2

Enugu South and calling on residents to actively participate in the ongoing APC e-registration exercise.

Dignitaries present included the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Osinachi Nnajieze; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Barr. Ugochi Madueke; her Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development counterpart, Mrs. Ngozi Enih;

Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Chief John Ogbodo; Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants to the Governor, party leaders, traditional rulers, among several others.

Stakeholders of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area have unanimously endorsed the re-election bid of the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for a second term in 2027, citing his visionary leadership and remarkable developmental strides across the state.

The endorsement followed a stakeholders’ meeting where a motion supporting the Governor’s second-term ambition was moved by the former Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Nnanyelugo Chidi Aroh, and seconded by a former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chris Nnadi. The motion was unanimously adopted.

While expressing their appreciation, the stakeholders highlighted the successful emergence of Professor Simon Ortuanya as the 16th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, as well as the appointment of several distinguished sons of Igbo-Etiti into strategic positions within the Mbah administration. They also commended the numerous life-changing development projects being executed by the administration within a remarkably short period.

The meeting which held in Enugu, was well attended by serving and former government appointees, including the member representing Igbo-Etiti West State Constituency, Hon. Engr. William Amuka; the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Agbo; the Chairman of APC in Igbo-Etiti LGA, Hon. Okoro Paul; the Vice Chairman of Igbo-Etiti LGA, Barr. Chinasa Okeagu; former Council Chairmen, Hon. Chief Ignatius Ishienyi; Hon. Nnabuike Nwodo; and Engr. Festus Ozoemena; the Chairman of Enugu State Forest Guard, Col. Monday Didigwu (rtd); former Commissioner for Local Government, Barr. Okey Ani; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Chieftaincy Matters, Dr. Methodius Agujiobi; former Council Chairman and serving Permanent Secretary, Hon. Ogbonna Idike; Dr. Marcy Okwor; Barr. Johnson Okegbe; Chairman, Enugu State Road Fund, Hon Chidera Odo; and many others.

A solemn moment of reflection as Governor Peter Mbah honours our fallen heroes and recommits to peace, unity, and shared responsibility. pic.twitter.com/y8aNcSInTS

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) January 15, 2026

Governor Peter Mbah has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continue to partner with the Federal Government to support the Nigerian Armed Forces, fallen heroes, and their families.

Mbah also stressed the need to learn from the scars of division and internal conflicts inherent in the nation’s history in order to build a more united and secure society, saying that “peace and safety must be protected by restraint, dialogue, and shared responsibility.”

Mbah gave the commitment on Thursday during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Okpara Square, Enugu, describing January 15 of every year as a solemn day when Nigerians must pause, reflect deeply, and acknowledge the price paid by the nation’s heroes so that other citizens may live in safety.

“As a state government, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and their families. This support goes beyond ceremony. It is reflected in practical care, in advocacy, and in partnership with the Federal Government to ensure that those who serve, and those who have served, are treated with respect and care.

“On this day of remembrance, we honour those families who continue to carry their memory. And we recommit ourselves to the values for which they served: unity, discipline, service, and respect for human life.

“The wreaths we lay today remind us of the responsibility to live as citizens worthy of the sacrifices our heroes made for us,” he said.

He, however, emphasised that the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces transcended an annual ceremony and should always be borne in the hearts of all Nigerians.

“When a soldier falls, the loss does not end at the battlefield. It enters homes. It settles into families. It is borne in the human heart and becomes part of daily life for those left behind.

“Grief does not announce itself outwardly; it is carried for a lifetime by spouses, parents, brothers, sisters, and by children who grow up holding memories instead of hands.

“We recognise the weight you carry. We recognise the lives that were disrupted, the futures altered, the memories that require loving guardianship. Your loss is now ours to help you carry.

“As a society, we must not look away from that responsibility. To remember the fallen is also to care for the living. To honour the cost of human life is to ensure that families are supported with consistency and compassion,” Mbah stated.

Mbah stressed that “above all, peace and security are sustained by a mindset that understands the value of prevention.”

“Our history carries the scars of division. From the Civil War of the late 1960s to later internal conflicts, we have learned, at great human cost, what happens when unity fractures and lives become casualties of discord.

“That history reminds us that progress is never guaranteed, and that peace and safety must be protected by restraint, dialogue, and shared responsibility,” he concluded.

Speaking with reporters, President, Military Widows Association of Nigeria, Enugu State chapter, Mrs Sarah Charles Ugwuabonyi, while commending Governor Mbah for caring for welfare of military widows and their families in the state, called for jobs and skills to further relieve them.

Highpoints of the event were the inspection of a guard of honour by Governor Mbah, as well as the laying of wreaths on the cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier and the release of pigeons by the governor and other dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, as a mark of peace.

Others who laid wreaths were a representative of military widows, Mrs Fatima Umar; General Officer Commanding, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General O. A. Fadairo; Commander, Nigerian Navy ship, Madueke, Rear Admiral N. Friday;

Air Officer Commanding, Ground Training Command, Nigerian Air Force Enugu, Air Vice Marshal A. G. Kehinde; Commissioner of Police, Enugu State, CP Bitrus Giwa; Director of the State Security Service, Enugu State Command, Mr. Humphrey Ohikhuare; Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Enugu State Chapter, Dr. Emeka Igweshi and Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Igwe Samuel Asadu.

The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Victor Udeh; and the Chairman of the Enugu State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, among other dignitaries.

Earlier today, I visited the Enugu Smart Green School, GTC Enugu Campus, where the distribution of free school uniforms was underway.

The joy and excitement in the air were palpable. You could see it on the faces of the children and their parents, a sense of relief and renewed hope.

For the pupils and many families, this is more than just a uniform; it is a powerful signal that government is present, that education is truly being prioritised, and that every Enugu child matters.

Kudos to Governor Mbah for turning policy into real, felt impact in the lives of our children.

This is how you build confidence in public education and invest in the future of the state.
Tomorrow is here!

Earlier today, I visited the Enugu Smart Green School, GTC Enugu Campus, where the distribution of free school uniforms was underway.
The joy and excitement in the air were palpable. You could see it on the faces of the children and their parents, a sense of relief and renewed… pic.twitter.com/jF224RoSQD

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) January 13, 2026

The Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has unveiled a new fleet of modern waste management equipment comprising 10 state-of-the-art refuse compactors, seven automated road sweepers, and 200 large-capacity dumpsters, saying it marked another major step in his administration’s drive to build a clean, climate-investment-friendly, and competitive state.

Conducting the unveiling on Tuesday at the Old Government Lodge, Enugu, the governor said the step further underscored the administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability as a cornerstone of economic growth, public health, and urban development.

Speaking through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Mbah described the acquisition as more than the procurement of equipment, but a clear statement of intent to strengthen the backbone of Enugu State’s environmental infrastructure.

“Today’s event is a demonstration of our administration’s commitment to building the Enugu State of the future. With the introduction of these compactors, automated sweepers, and modern dumpsters, we are advancing a vision that places cleanliness, order, and sustainability at the heart of our development agenda,” the governor said.

He explained that the additional compactors, complementing existing ones, would guarantee faster and more efficient evacuation of waste across the state, while the automated street sweepers would transform Enugu closer to the standards of modern, well-planned cities around the world. The newly deployed dumpsters, he added, would eliminate indiscriminate waste disposal by bringing proper waste collection points closer to residents.

Governor Mbah stressed that environmental reform remained a central pillar of his administration, noting that no city could attract investors, grow tourism, or guarantee public health if it was overwhelmed by waste.

“A clean city is a competitive city. A clean city is a healthy city. A clean city is a city ready for growth,” he declared, adding that the reforms being implemented at the Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA) were designed to support the state’s broader ambitions in infrastructure expansion, industrialisation, and investment attraction.

While unveiling the equipment, the governor also called on residents to play their part by embracing responsible waste disposal and environmental discipline, stressing that government efforts could only be sustained with active public cooperation.

He urged citizens to stop littering streets, drains, and open spaces indiscriminately and to make proper use of the dumpsters provided by the administration.

Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu, described the unveiling as an epoch-making event and a significant milestone in the state’s waste management journey.

He recalled that Enugu State won a national award last year as the cleanest state capital in Nigeria, attributing the achievement to the governor’s deep interest in environmental cleanliness and sustainability.

Prof. Ugwu also highlighted key policy interventions under the Mbah administration, including the signing into law of the Enugu State Environmental Protection Law in 2024 and the approval of the Climate Change Policy and Action Plan.

“These vehicles will enhance our operational capacity to keep our streets clean and provide a healthier environment for all residents,” the commissioner said, assuring that trained operators were already on the ground and that the equipment would be deployed immediately.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of ESWAMA, Mr. Richard Onaga, thanked the governor for what he described as a bold and visionary investment in modern waste management.

From manual sweeping to smart machines. Enugu unveils automated street sweepers as Mbah upgrades city services to global standards.
Tomorrow is here!

From manual sweeping to smart machines. Enugu unveils automated street sweepers as Mbah upgrades city services to global standards.
Tomorrow is here! pic.twitter.com/jkrvE9upZ6

— Dan Nwomeh (@DanNwomeh) January 13, 2026

Governor Peter Mbah has justified the political movement to the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the South East as well as the decision of the South East to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue in office till 2031.

Mbah said that Tinubu’s endorsement and the massive movement to the APC, which now controlled three out of the five South East states were a paradigm shift grounded in pragmatism, noting that the region was already reaping the benefits of aligning with the centre.

The governor spoke at the South East APC Stakeholders meeting, which held at the Presidential Hotel, Enugu, on Saturday, saying, “it means that we are not standing at the crossroads of history; we are shaping history itself.”

On Tinubu’s endorsement, Mbah said, “I am thrilled even more so by the major goal of this meeting, which is to stamp a seal of endorsement on the President’s bold reforms and his candidacy in the 2027 election.

“This is no whimsical decision; it is rooted in facts – and the understanding that success as a region comes from vision that is clear enough to guide action, discipline strong enough to withstand pressure, strategy grounded in reality, and delivery that is relentless.

“Politics is nurtured by partnership; the willingness to trust each other, to align, and to work together even when the path is challenging.

“Enugu State has become a bastion of the APC. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria has begun the difficult work of repositioning itself for long-term strength. Hard choices have been made for sustainability.”

Continuing, he stressed, “The Renewed Hope Agenda is beyond political slogan. This endorsement is a clear decision to stand together and push this momentum further.

“It is about understanding that the ambitions we hold for our people, for our economy, for our future, are best served when vision at the centre aligns with delivery at the states and vice versa.”

Mbah emphasised that for the South East, “there has been a clear recognition from the federal government that national progress cannot be achieved with any region standing at the margins.”

“We are seeing that recognition translate into action as our common aspirations are connected to national opportunities.

“For a region teeming with entrepreneurial zest, it is ironic that energy development and gas prospecting across the South East have long seemed a distant prospect. But this is becoming an active priority, laying the groundwork for industrial growth and jobs.

“The Eastern Rail Line, connecting Port Harcourt through Aba, Umuahia, Enugu and beyond, is back on the national map, restoring the arteries of trade and mobility that once defined this region.

“Equally heartwarming is the approval of the Enugu airport concession. This is a turning point that has positioned Enugu as an international gateway for the South East, given how it opens direct access to Africa and the wider world.

“These are not symbolic gestures. They are strategic decisions in support of our region. And they reflect something deeper: a federal leadership that understands the value of decentralised execution, of strong states delivering strong outcomes, and of partnership as a tool for national renewal,” he stated.

He emphasised that going forward, the South East would pursue unity of purpose, rather than fragmented politics, which he said had undermined progress.

“Our region’s chequered history reminds us how easily progress can be undone when unity gives way to fragmentation. But it also reminds us of what is possible when purpose is shared and direction is clear. What is emerging now is the influence of sustained coordination.

“In collectively affirming an end to decades of fragmented politics in the South East, we’re saying that the South East will no longer stand as a divided political unit.

“This is a moment to think clearly and act strategically, and to remain focused on outcomes. Let us lean into partnership, not retreat into suspicion.

“Let us build, rather than fracture. And let us protect and extend the progress already in motion. That is the work before us. And that is why this endorsement matters,” he concluded.

Governor Peter Mbah has assured the people of Nkanu land and Enugu State in general that he would continue to make them proud, serving with integrity and the full measure of his capacity.

Mbah gave the assurances on Friday at the 50th coronation anniversary celebration of the traditional rule of Ihuokpara in Nkanu East Local Government Area (LGA) HRM Igwe Fidelis Ogbu Nwatu, who is also the Grand Patron of Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council.

The governor was reacting to his endorsement through the presentation of an ofo staff, the Igbo symbol of authority, truth and justice, by Igwe Nwatu and traditional rulers of Nkanu land, assisted by the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Ruler Council, HRM Igwe Samuel Asadu.

“I would like to begin by thanking our elders and our revered royal fathers for the event of today and what has just happened. The weight, import and significance of the ofo I have just received cannot be lost on me as an Nkanu man.

“In our culture, what you see me holding in my left hand is beyond symbols because our traditional rulers are the representatives of our ancestors. I am sure they must have communed with our ancestors for today's event to take place. We have our ancestors speaking through them.

“So, this is not an ordinary honour. This is trust, authority and it has been conferred on me by no other but by my people. It is an honour bestowed on me by my kinsmen that can never be compared to any other honour under the sun.

“I know that this endorsement is for us to continue to serve Ndi Enugu and it comes with responsibility. I understand that clearly. And I want to reassure our elders and traditional rulers that I will continue to serve Ndi Enugu with humility and with all the energy that I have and every fiber of my being, making you proud. You will never regret your action” Mbah stated.

He felicitated the celebrant for his meritorious service to his people and the Igbo land in the past 50 years, saying his longevity on the throne showed that the people, the ancestors and God were pleased with him.

“50 Years of service on the throne cannot be achieved by force. If a man has served his people for 50 years and they gathered so massively as we are seeing here today to celebrate him, then it is a reflection of honour to a man, who has dedicated his time in service to his community. So, we join rejoicing and congratulating him.

“So, on behalf of the Government and good people of Enugu State, I convey our hearty felicitations. May God grant you many more years so that we can continue to benefit from your wealth of experience, wisdom, and knowledge,” he added.

Governor Mbah equally reassured the traditional rulers of a major improvement in their welfare starting from this month.

“We know that the traditional rulers are the custodians of our values, memory, and culture. As a government, we will provide the structure and the system that work with the soul of this traditional institution, which is why in our budget this year, we placed their welfare as top priority to the government.

“So, when you receive your alerts starting for the month of January this 2026 and going forward, you are going to feel something that is humongous that you will not be able to contain your excitement. We are also going to provide vehicles to all our principal officers of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council,” he added.

Meanwhile, presenting the Ofo staff, the celebrant, who spoke on behalf of other royal fathers cited what he described as Mbah's exceptional governance and landmark projects, noting that Enugu State never had it so good.

He said the Ofo staff was an endorsement to continue his good work.

Other highpoints of the celebration was the unveiling of the book "Leadership as Service:
A Portrait of Stewardship, Justice and Peace" authored by Igwe Nwatu and cutting of golden jubilee cake by the celebrant flanked by Mbah and other signatories.

The event was attended by former President of the Senate, Senator Ken Nnamani; wife of former governor of old Anambra State, Chief Patricia Nwobodo, and many political leaders, captains of industry, and lovers of the traditional ruler and Ihuokpara from across Nigeria and beyond.