₦airaland Forum

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued an Aerodrome Certification for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

The certificate was presented on Monday at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja following the airport's full compliance with both national and international aviation safety and operational standards.

The Director-General of NCAA, Chris Najomo, described the development as a major achievement, noting that it aligned with the stringent requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Najomo, who was represented by the agency's Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Ahmad Abba, explained that the certification was sequel to a rigorous five-phase evaluation process encompassing detailed inspections of airport infrastructure, airside and landside operations, safety management systems, emergency preparedness, and personnel training.

"The certification of Akanu Ibiam International Airport is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the regulator and the operator. It demonstrates that Nigeria is on track in meeting international aviation safety benchmarks," he said.

He also commended FAAN for its professionalism and sustained cooperation throughout the certification process, describing such collaboration as essential to maintaining consistent safety standards across Nigeria's airports.

Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Adebola Agunbiade, said the certification is a win for the country's aviation sector and acknowledged the contributions of NCAA officials, FAAN technical teams, and other industry stakeholders whose expertise helped deliver a successful outcome.

"This certification is not an end, but a new phase of continuous improvement. We are committed to sustaining global standards and enhancing passenger experience across all our airports," she stated.

Reacting, the Commissioner for Transport, Enugu State, Obi Ozor, described the certification as a boost for the Dr. Peter Mbah administration's vision to grow the state from a $4.4 billion to a $30 billion economy and the target to make Enugu a major aviation hub.

Ozor commended NCAA for its professionalism and stringent certification, saying the development would boost the credibility of the airport in the eyes of international airlines and aviation bodies while also positioning it to attract new international routes.

Meanwhile, an Aerodrome Certificate is an official licence issued by the NCAA that confirms an airport meets all the required safety, operational, and infrastructure standards to legally receive aircraft and passengers.

It is required under ICAO Annex 14, which sets the global standards for aerodrome design, operations, and safety management. Without it, an airport cannot be recognised as being compliant with international aviation law.

The certification is viewed as a new dawn for AIIA, Enugu as it gets its first-ever international certification from NCAA and ICAO.

Founded fifty years ago, this airport has seen continued improvement. The recent concession arrangement of the airport has already begun to bear fruit.

The airport has, over the past few weeks, seen major uplift in its infrastructure, including new CCTV installations, complete security perimeter fencing, signs and signages, firefighting vehicles, among others, leading to this new certification.

This new dawn prepares the airport for extensive commercial expansion by the concessionaire, who envisions handling close to 10 international flights in the near future, as wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747 can now land at the airport.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has commended the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, for what it described as a transformative and forward-looking Smart Schools initiative, pledging strategic partnership with the state in teacher training, digital education development and cultural renaissance of the Igbo heritage.

The commendation was delivered by the Head of the UNESCO Office and Representative in Nigeria, Jean‑Paul Ngome Abiaga, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Enugu on Monday.

Abiaga, who led a high-level delegation, said the global body was impressed by the scale, speed, and vision underpinning the state’s education reforms.

He noted that UNESCO, which places education at the core of its mandate, found strong alignment between its global objectives and the Enugu State government’s aggressive investment in human capital development, particularly the establishment of over 260 Smart Green Schools across the state.

“We came first to appreciate the good work you and your team are doing here in Enugu. Your focus on human capital development is extremely important, and the development of the Smart Schools is remarkable.

"We see strong complementarity between what you are implementing here and UNESCO’s programmes in Nigeria,” he said.

Abiaga disclosed that the visit was part of ongoing engagements aimed at deepening collaboration between UNESCO and Enugu State in critical sectors including education, teacher empowerment, culture, and youth engagement.

He revealed that UNESCO, in partnership with the European Union, was already implementing a $5 million education support programme in six Nigerian states, including Enugu.

He further disclosed that, as part of the plan, UNESCO planned to train no fewer than 2,183 teachers in ICT and digital pedagogy to strengthen capacity and align with the Smart Schools framework.

He emphasised that while infrastructure development was commendable, the real impact would be driven by empowering teachers with the skills required for modern, technology-driven classrooms.

“We believe it will be beneficial to join forces with the state to further develop smart teaching systems, especially focusing on teachers. Equipment and infrastructure must go hand-in-hand with human capital development,” he added.

Beyond education, Abiaga highlighted UNESCO’s interest in promoting and preserving Igbo cultural heritage, noting that the organisation had already supported the National Museum in Enugu with security infrastructure, including surveillance systems, and expressed readiness to expand efforts in documenting and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region for global recognition.

Responding, Governor Mbah welcomed the UNESCO delegation, describing Enugu as the historic and cultural hub of the Igbo people.

He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to education, noting that over 30 per cent of the state’s budget had consistently been allocated to the sector—far exceeding UNESCO’s recommended benchmark.

“We are unapologetically obsessed with education because we know that our future depends on it,” Mbah stated.

“What we have done is not just about buildings; it is about changing the narrative and equipping our children with the skills needed for the future,” he added.

The governor disclosed that the state had constructed over 7,000 classrooms and established 267 Smart Green Schools strategically located across all political wards to ensure equitable access to quality education, stressing that the initiative goes beyond infrastructure to include curriculum reform, experiential learning, and the integration of cutting-edge technology such as robotics, mechatronics, and 3D printing.

Mbah further explained that the state had shifted from rote learning to experiential education, where students are trained to think critically, solve real-world problems, and innovate from an early age.

He explained that to support this, the government established a Centre for Experiential Learning and Innovation to equip teachers with digital teaching competencies.

He expressed enthusiasm over UNESCO’s proposed teacher training programme, describing it as timely and aligned with the state’s ongoing efforts to build a digitally competent teaching workforce.

On cultural development, the governor highlighted Enugu’s rich historical assets, including heritage sites, caves, waterfalls, and ancient landmarks, calling for UNESCO’s support in designating some of them as World Heritage Sites. He specifically pointed to sites such as the Nsude pyramids and ancient iron-smelting locations as deserving of global recognition.

“We are proud of our heritage and ready to partner with UNESCO to preserve and showcase it to the world,” Mbah concluded

The Enugu State Government has rolled out a new phase of its social intervention programme under the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES), targeting no fewer than 3,000 beneficiaries across rural communities in the state.

The initiative, driven by the State Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), is designed to improve living conditions at the grassroots through targeted interventions in water supply, sanitation, and small-scale enterprise support, in line with Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to inclusive development.

Speaking at the launch on behalf of the governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the programme was a direct response to prevailing economic realities impacting rural households, stressing that the administration remained deliberate about cushioning hardship and expanding opportunities at the community level.

He explained that the intervention would provide solar-powered water facilities to boost access to clean water, construct hygienic sanitation systems, and deliver financial and material support to enhance livelihoods, adding that community participation would be central to identifying needs and ensuring effective project execution.

Also speaking, the General Manager of CSDA, Mr. Monday Diamond Ani, disclosed that thousands of beneficiaries would receive tools to strengthen their income-generating activities, including Point of Sale (POS) machines and vocational equipment for trades such as tailoring, grinding, and hairdressing.

Ani emphasised that beneficiary selection would follow a transparent, data-driven process involving community inputs and the state’s social register, assuring that the programme would remain free from political interference, while robust monitoring mechanisms would be deployed to track utilisation and impact.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Barr. Obiora Obeagu, expressed optimism that the initiative would deliver tangible improvements in rural livelihoods, pledging the full support of local authorities to ensure smooth implementation.

The programme will be implemented in phases, beginning with sensitisation and beneficiary selection, followed by distribution of support items and continuous monitoring to sustain impact.

The people of Awkunanaw clan, cutting across several communities in Enugu South and Nkanu West Local Government Areas of Enugu State, have endorsed the governor of the state, Dr. Peter Mbah, for a second term in office come 2027.

The people, who trooped out en masse at the Civic Centre, Akpasha, for a mega rally in support of Mbah on Saturday, also presented him with an Ofo (symbol of authority and justice) saying he had set a record in less than three years that would be difficult for anyone to break in eight years.

They advised any son or daughter of the Awkunanaw clan - Akegbe Ugwu, Obuofia, Amechi, Amodu, Obeagu, Umueze, Akwuke, and Ugwuaji -
interested in the state’s governorship seat to perish the thought until the office rotates to Enugu East Senatorial Zone again.

Akegbe Ugwu, Obuofia, Amechi, Amodu, Obeagu, Umueze, Akwuke, and Ugwu
Articulating the stand of the mammoth crowd, elder statesman and former President of the Senate, Senator Ken Nnamani, noted that Mbah had become a poster boy for subnational governance in Nigeria.

“We want to make it clear that the people of Awkunanaw are solidly behind Peter Mbah to complete his second term. His good works in Enugu are earning him public acclaim throughout the country.

“The high point of our coming here today is that we want to bequeath him with an Ofo, and it is rarely given. So, nobody in Nkanu land should use Governor Mbah’s remaining four years to play with us.

“Again, if anyone feels he has an issue with him, we are going to settle it indoors as brothers. But the truth remains that we are not going to joke with his second term.

“Besides, Awkunanaw does not go to fight and come back defeated. No! We go into a just fight we will win and be proud that we fought. He has, in barely three years, done what other governors could not do in eight years. That is why we trooped out here en masse to show him explicit support. We are standing tall with him without hiding, and we are ready to defend him everywhere,” Nnamani declared.

Reinforcing Nnamani’s remarks, former governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, said, as a forthright people, Awkunanaw clan, having presented the Ofo staff to Governor Mbah, could not renege on their support for him.

Nwobodo, who was represented by the Enugu State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, declared that Mbah remained the best hands for the state come 2027.

“The point is that we have given the Ofo to him, and it is not something you give to two individuals at the same time because our ancestors are also involved, and it is tantamount to endorsing two persons for the same office. So, Mbah is our governorship candidate come 2027,” he declared.

Secretary to Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, reiterated that Mbah had set Enugu as a benchmark for good governance, commending his revolutionary strides across all sectors.

Invoking their ancestors, the traditional rulers of the entire Awkunanaw clan in a process led by HRH Igwe Obi Igwesi, jointly presented an ofo to Mbah, declaring that any Awkunanaw son or daughter, who goes against Mbah’s reelection would be inviting the wrath of their forefathers.

Speaking, Governor Mbah fired back at the opposition, saying no one could diminish or distort the achievements recorded by his administration in less than three years.

“Three years ago, there were no Smart Schools and Type-2 Hospitals in all our political wards; the International Conference Centre, Hotel Presidential, Nigergas, the Enugu United Palm Products Limited, and several other prized assets were still skeletal shells and moribund.

“Three years ago, there was no Enugu Air; no state-of-the-art transport terminals; no CNG buses; and our dear capital city was not the conferencing hub that it has become today,” he stated.

He warned the people of Awkunanaw and Nkanuland against selfish politicians sowing seeds of discord in desperate bids for power to feather their nests.

“We must come together to resist forces of falsehood and division.

“How can you claim to love Nkanu people and yet act in ways that hurt their interests? That tells you one thing: they are driven by selfish interests.

“Besides, could they have recorded even a tiny fraction of what we have achieved so far?” he queried.

Meanwhile, other Awkunanaw leaders at the event include Hon. U.S.A Igwesi, Amb. Gordi Agbo. Hon. Offor Chukwuegbo, Hon. Chimaobi Atu, Hon. Iloabuchi Aniagu, Hon. Obiajulu Princess Ugwu, Chief Nwabueze Nnamani, Hon. John Egbo, Dr. Amaka Ngene, Hon. Nwabueze Ugwu, Igwe Dr. Greg Ugwu and other traditional rulers from within and outside the Awkunanaw clan.

Also present were Prof. Oguejiofo Ujam, Hon. Ken Nyamah, Hon. Sam Ngene, Hon. Caleb Ani, among a host of those who spoke to endorse the governor.

Other dignitaries present include Dr. Ben Nwoye, Dr. Martin Chukwunweike,
Senator Kelvin Chukwu, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, Hon. Hon. Chijioke Edeoga, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, Barr. Victor Udeh, Hon. Eugene Odoh, Prince Lawrence Ezeh, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, host Council Chairman - Hon. John Ogbodo - and many other Council Chairmen, among a host of others.

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