

Opinion
Re-awakening Africa in an Era of Resurgence of Coup d’etat: A Call for Leadership, Integrity, and Progress – Chijioke Ogbodo
Introduction:
In the heart of Africa lies a diverse continent abundant with resources, culture, and vibrant communities. However, hidden beneath its surface are deep-rooted challenges that continue to hinder its growth and progress. Today, we stand at a critical juncture, urging African countries and their leaders to wake up, shun corruption, and take back their countries. It is time for a self-awakening, a collective movement that fights despotism and confronts the numerous ills that bedevil Africa. This call for change aims to rally citizens, leaders, and communities, fostering a future of hope, integrity, and sustained progress.
The Re-awakening of Africa:
Africa’s history is rich with stories of resilience and triumphs in the face of adversity. However, standing on the present horizon is the continuous struggle against corruption, poor governance, and despotism. It is time for African countries and their leaders to awaken from the clutches of these destructive forces, as these acts only serve to undermine the progress that could be realized. By acknowledging the urgency of this call to wake up, we can pave the way for a brighter future that embraces integrity, transparency, and true leadership.
Shunning Corruption and Embracing Accountability:
Corruption, like a cancer, has spread throughout many African countries, stifling development, hindering investment, and eroding public trust. It is essential for African leaders to demonstrate a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, ensuring accountability and enforcing strict penalties for those who engage in such practices. By shunning corruption, African countries will create an environment conducive to economic growth, attracting local and foreign investors and enabling sustainable development for present and future generations.
Fighting Despotism and Upholding Democratic Values:
Despotism and autocratic rule pose immense threats to Africa’s progress. It is crucial for leaders to understand that true power lies in serving their citizens, respecting human rights, and upholding democratic principles. By fostering inclusive governance, enabling freedom of speech, and ensuring fair and transparent elections, African countries can stand strong against despotic tendencies, guaranteeing lasting peace and stability.
Confronting the Ills Bedevilling Africa:
To achieve real change, African countries must confront the ills that plague them. This calls for addressing issues such as poverty, lack of access to quality education and healthcare, gender inequality, and regional conflicts. By prioritizing these challenges, African leaders can develop comprehensive strategies that empower their citizens and create a platform for upward mobility. Collaboration within and between African countries, as well as partnerships with the international community, will be crucial in overcoming these ills and achieving sustainable development.
A Future of Hope, Integrity, and Progress:
Awakening Africa requires a collective effort; it demands the commitment of citizens, leaders, and communities to create lasting change. The potential of this diverse continent is immense, waiting to be fully harnessed for the benefit of all. By waking up, shunning corruption, and fighting despotism, African countries can embark on a journey towards a future defined by hope, integrity, and progress. Together, we can overcome the challenges that bedevil Africa, allowing its true potential to shine and uplifting the lives of its people.
Conclusion:
The call to awaken Africa is a call to action. It is time for African leaders to take ownership, reject corruption and despotic tendencies, and work towards the collective well-being of their nations. By confronting the challenges head-on, fostering transparency, and upholding democratic values, Africa can pave the path towards a future that is free from corruption, characterized by true leadership, and filled with boundless opportunities for growth and prosperity. GMTNews
Chijioke Ogbodo, former OAP and broadcast journalist, is the Managing Editor with GMTNewsng.
Opinion
Suppressing Free Expression in the Name of Discipline is a Threat to Democracy ~ Opinion

In democratic societies, the right to freedom of expression is sacrosanct, protected by law, and recognized as a fundamental human right. Yet, in Nigeria, cases of government agencies and institutions infringing upon this right continue to emerge with alarming frequency. The recent case of Nurse Osato Edobor, a student at the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, is yet another troubling example of this overreach.
The school’s query, issued on March 27, 2025, accuses Nurse Edobor of a “malicious act” simply for recording and sharing a video of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at a public event. The document claims that this act- singing along to a song and posting it on TikTok – violates disciplinary rules and could warrant punitive action. But how does recording and sharing a public event constitute a legal or ethical offence? The attempt to frame such an innocent act as misconduct is nothing but an overzealous attempt at censorship—one that threatens to set a dangerous precedent.
Freedom of Expression is a Global Standard
Internationally, freedom of expression is a protected right. Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) guarantees that “everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression,” including the right to “seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.” The European Court of Human Rights has repeatedly ruled against state-backed efforts to stifle public expression, emphasizing that freedom of speech extends to content that may be inconvenient or uncomfortable to those in power.
In the United States, the First Amendment protects individuals from government overreach in matters of speech and expression. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, courts have ruled that public institutions must act proportionally when enforcing rules that affect freedom of speech, ensuring that discipline does not infringe on fundamental rights. Even in African democracies like South Africa and Ghana, legal frameworks exist to protect citizens from arbitrary disciplinary measures for merely expressing themselves in public forums.
If these countries, with advanced legal systems, recognize that individual freedoms must not be sacrificed in the name of institutional discipline, why should Nigeria—a signatory to international human rights treaties—allow such an egregious attack on personal liberties?
The Dangerous Path of Institutional Overreach
The actions of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences are not just an isolated case of administrative excess; they represent a growing pattern of authoritarianism within Nigeria’s educational and governmental institutions. The reasoning behind this query suggests that public employees and students must adhere to an unspoken culture of silence and servitude—where even harmless actions can be interpreted as subversion.
This is sycophancy in overdrive. The query states that Nurse Edobor was “found to be engaged in a malicious act of recording/singing and posting unofficial response to a song.” Malicious act? How does recording a First Lady’s arrival—at a public event—amount to a punishable offense? The claim that this act violated the student handbook is a textbook example of vague, arbitrary rules being weaponized to stifle personal freedoms.
If this continues unchecked, the consequences could be dire. Public servants and students alike will become increasingly fearful of expressing themselves, even in harmless ways. This fosters an environment where only the most sycophantic voices thrive – stifling creativity, engagement, and even legitimate discourse on national issues.
The query from the school aauthority
National Consequences of Silence
Suppressing free expression in schools and public institutions does more than harm individuals; it erodes trust in governance. When people feel they cannot freely express themselves without facing punitive measures, they withdraw from public discourse. This leads to an environment where constructive criticism, necessary for democracy’s health, is drowned out by fear and compliance.
Moreover, such institutional overreach can foster resentment and disillusionment among the youth. At a time when Nigeria is grappling with brain drain and the mass exodus of skilled professionals, it is reckless to stifle young people’s voices instead of empowering them. Many students and professionals already feel suffocated by a system that values hierarchy over talent. This kind of suppression only accelerates their disconnection from national affairs, pushing them to seek better opportunities in countries that value their rights.
Calling for Sanity and Legal Prudence
The Provost of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, Mrs. Evbodaghe Rita Ogonne, must reconsider the institution’s approach to discipline. If the objective is to maintain decorum and professionalism, there are far more reasonable ways to engage students without trampling on their rights. The authorities must understand that public events, especially those involving political figures, are inherently of public interest. Recording and sharing such events should never be considered misconduct.
Moreover, this incident should serve as a wake-up call for Nigerian lawmakers and human rights advocates. There must be clear and enforceable legal protections against arbitrary disciplinary actions by government institutions. Institutions should not be allowed to cite vague rules as an excuse to suppress lawful expression.
The case of Nurse Osato Edobor is not just about one student facing an unfair query—it is about the broader struggle for free speech in Nigeria. If we fail to speak against this growing trend now, we risk normalizing a culture where silence is the only safe option. And in such a culture, democracy itself is at risk. GMTNewsng
Opinion
Mbah: Celebrating the Poster Boy of Good Governance in Nigeria at 53

● Samson Ezea
By this time last year, Enugu State Governor, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, marked his first birthday as Governor of Enugu State without fanfare. He was 52 then. Today, at 53, Governor Mbah exudes confidence, articulation, and a clear sense of purpose in his governance of Enugu State.
It is evident that the people of Enugu State and beyond are not merely celebrating the personality of Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah today. No, they have done so many times before. What they are truly celebrating are the unprecedented, transformative projects and policies he has implemented in less than two years, reshaping the state’s developmental landscape, restoring its lost glory, and making it an attractive destination for investors.
It is for these reasons and more that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, earlier this year, defied expectations and made his first official visit outside Abuja to Enugu State. The visit was to witness and commission the legacy, people-oriented projects of Governor Mbah’s administration- projects that have gained national and global attention.
President Tinubu did not only commend Governor Mbah but assured Ndi Enugu that in Mbah, they have a leader shaping their present and securing a better future for them and all Nigerians.
Across Enugu State, evidence abounds of how Governor Mbah has introduced innovative governance and delivered democracy dividends in ways that have surprised, inspired, and earned him widespread commendation.
Describing Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah – an accomplished maritime lawyer, financial analyst, public servant, oil magnate, and renowned entrepreneur – as a rare breed is not an overstatement. His journey, marked by hard work, focus, and divine grace, has positioned him as an exemplary leader at 53.
At a relatively young age, Mbah found himself in the corridors of power, serving as Chief of Staff to the Governor and later as Commissioner for Finance. He handled these roles with distinction, avoiding the allure of power that often consumes many in public office.
Unlike the typical Nigerian politician who clings to government circles, lobbying for positions, contracts, and patronage, Mbah quietly exited politics after his tenure in the Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani administration. He returned to Lagos, where he had previously been, in search of business opportunities.
Starting modestly in a small studio office in Victoria Island, he founded Pinnacle Oil and Gas Nigeria Limited. With determination and strategic foresight, Mbah transformed the company from a few retail filling stations to a global player in the competitive downstream oil sector. His vision materialized in the form of Africa’s largest tank farm at the Lekki Free Trade Zone, a milestone project commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022 to national and international acclaim.
Mbah’s success with Pinnacle Oil and Gas is a testament to his business acumen, and it would not be surprising if his strategies become a case study in the global oil industry and entrepreneurial circles in the coming years. His ability to achieve such remarkable feats, despite a brief stint in politics and no prior major stake in the oil industry, underscores his ingenuity.
Thus, when Mbah re-entered the political arena in 2022 to contest for the governorship of Enugu State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), his candidacy unsettled his opponents. His entry into the race changed the political equation, as he emerged as the most formidable candidate, towering above his peers before, during, and after the primaries and election.
Despite the intense political struggles, intrigues, and mudslinging on social media, Mbah remained undeterred, confident, and focused. He refused to be distracted by the smear campaigns orchestrated by opponents. Instead, he remained steadfast, keeping his eyes on the ultimate goal. His victory at the polls did not come easy, but by the grace of God, he now sits as the Governor of Enugu State.
At 53, and less than two years into his tenure, Mbah has introduced a governance model anchored on disruptive innovation, driven by a sense of urgency to achieve results. He has redefined Enugu’s governance, politics, and developmental structure, leveraging his experience from both the public and private sectors. Through his administration’s sweeping interventions in various sectors, he is methodically building the Enugu of the people’s dreams.
One of his early achievements was the swift termination of the IPOB-enforced Monday sit-at-home order, ensuring that businesses and economic activities could resume fully. He also repositioned the state’s security architecture to enhance peace and safety. Under his leadership, Enugu has become a massive construction site, with completed and ongoing projects in roads, healthcare, and smart school initiatives.
Some of the completed projects set to boost the state’s economy include the long-abandoned International Conference Centre and modern transport terminals at Holy Ghost, Nsukka, Abakpa, and Awkunanaw.
Beyond infrastructure, Mbah’s administration is driving transformative reforms across agriculture, housing, SMEs, tourism, health, water supply, ICT, civil service, environment, sports, and transportation. These initiatives are laying the foundation for Enugu’s economic elevation in both the immediate and long-term future.
Unlike previous administrations where politics overshadowed governance, Mbah has reversed the trend. Today, good governance, infrastructural development, and tangible democracy dividends take precedence. There is a paradigm shift in leadership recruitment and governance style, reshaping the political landscape of the state.
For Governor Mbah, good governance is the best form of politics. He has demonstrated this by prioritizing developmental projects, particularly road constructions in long-neglected suburbs such as Abakpa, Emene, Obiagu, Camp, Awkunanaw, Ugwuaji, and Agbani Road.
At 53, Governor Mbah has proven to Ndi Enugu that electing him was not a mistake. His actions and policies reassure the people that their trust in him was well placed. While the road ahead may not be easy, there is a clear light at the end of the tunnel, signaling that governance in Enugu will no longer be business as usual.
It is indeed worth celebrating that at 53, Governor Mbah has etched his name in gold, leaving indelible footprints in Enugu’s development trajectory. His relentless drive to create wealth and render selfless service to humanity continues to inspire.
A jinx breaker, an award-winning entrepreneur, and a transformational leader, Governor Mbah is on a mission to build a new Enugu that meets international standards and earns global economic recognition.
So, to the game-changer, the poster boy of good governance, the tech-savvy financial analyst, the digital governor, and a visionary leader of our time – we say: Ride on! Happy Birthday to the disruptive innovator, the outstanding personality, the goal-getter, the Anukaenyi of Owo, and The Sun Newspaper’s Governor of the Year 2023.
Ezea is former Special Adviser on Media to Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi former Enugu State Governor, he wrote in from Lagos
Opinion
Gov Mbah @53: A New Governance Model Propelling Enugu as One of Nigeria’s Fastest-Growing Economies

● Chijioke Ogbodo
In contemporary Nigerian politics, good governance is often promised but rarely delivered in tangible, measurable ways. However, in Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah who turns 53 today, March 17, has emerged as an outlier, redefining governance through decisive actions and ambitious reforms. Since assuming office, Mbah has pursued a vision of accelerated development, transforming key sectors such as infrastructure, education, industry, digital economy, and healthcare. His administration is not only addressing long-standing issues but also pioneering innovative projects that position Enugu as a model for economic growth and good governance.
From groundbreaking agricultural investments to a revitalized tax regime, massive job creation, and sector-specific reforms, Enugu is becoming a national reference point for sub-national economic transformation. Notable economists, educationists and public policy analysts have described Mbah’s leadership as the most pragmatic in contemporary Nigerian governance.
Prof. Chinedu Nebo, former Minister of Power and an academic of repute, believes that Governor Mbah’s administration “represents a paradigm shift in leadership.” According to him, “Mbah’s policies are not only ambitious but deeply strategic. He has moved beyond rhetoric to actual execution, and barely a year in office, Enugu is already being discussed as Nigeria’s next big economic hub.”
Strengthening Security: Enugu’s Path to Economic Confidence
Under Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership, Enugu State has strengthened security to create a safe environment for investment and economic growth. A key initiative is the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF), a public-private partnership that mobilizes resources to equip security agencies and train personnel. Governor Mbah underscored its importance, stating, “Without a secure environment, our drive to grow the economy of Enugu State from $4 billion to $30 billion annually will not be achievable.”
These security measures have significantly boosted investor confidence, positioning Enugu among the safest states for business. Governor Mbah reaffirmed this, noting, “By implementing significant measures to enhance safety and security across the state, Enugu has now emerged as one of the safest and most secure states for potential investments.”
With a stable environment, both local and international investors are showing increased interest. The state’s commitment to security ensures businesses can operate without undue risks, attracting new investments and supporting the growth of existing enterprises, ultimately driving Enugu’s economic prosperity.
Agriculture: Transforming Land into Wealth
Governor Mbah’s economic roadmap prioritizes agriculture as a major driver of economic growth and food security. This vision is being executed through large-scale agricultural investments and public-private partnerships that are unlocking the state’s vast arable land.
A major milestone in this sector is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fungtai Engineering Ltd. for the cultivation of cash crops on 7,221 hectares at Ugwujoro, Nimbo, in Uzo-Uwani LGA. This project is a dual-purpose strategy aimed at increasing agricultural output while also tackling security concerns in border communities.
Speaking on the significance of the deal, Governor Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, stated: “We are committed to utilizing every available land for productive economic activities. This project not only boosts our agricultural production but also secures our rural communities by turning them into economic hubs.”
In addition, the government has partnered the National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) to establish a pre-fabricated Domestic Export Warehouse at the Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo. This project will significantly enhance the state’s cashew export potential, providing farmers with direct access to international markets.
Dr. Ojo Joseph Ajanaku, President of NCAN, emphasized the national significance of this initiative. “Enugu is setting a national precedent for agricultural industrialization. This partnership will add value to cashew production, create jobs, and boost foreign exchange earnings,” he said.
To further scale up production, the government has introduced the farm estate model, which allocates 200 hectares per ward for structured farming activities. This approach guarantees farmers access to land, warehouses, tractors, and extension services while positioning Enugu as an agricultural powerhouse.
The state has revived the United Palm Products Limited (UPPL) and is restoring the moribund Sunrise Flour Mills, which will provide a steady market for local farmers. In line with modern agricultural practices, a tractor assembly plant has been commissioned in partnership with a Danish firm, with an initial rollout of 200 tractors.
Additionally, Governor Mbah, in collaboration with Enugu’s 17 Local Government Council Chairmen, is driving the establishment of 260 farm estates to enhance food security, create jobs, and modernize agriculture.
Infrastructure Development: Connecting Enugu to the Future
Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has embarked on an extensive infrastructure development agenda, recognizing it as the backbone of economic growth and societal advancement. The state’s commitment to infrastructure is evident in the over 1,000 landmark projects currently underway, encompassing road construction, educational facilities, and healthcare improvements.
A flagship project is the dualization of the Nowas-Nike Lake-Ugwogo-Opi Nsukka road, a strategic 44.8-kilometer artery connecting multiple local government areas. This project aims to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic activities across the state.
In addition to major highways, the administration is focusing on rural accessibility. The construction of the Amah-Eke–Oghe–Iwolo–Olo–Umulokpa, spanning Udi, Ezeagu, and Uzo-Uwani Local Government Areas; Amodu, Ogbozhinne, Ndiagu Akpugo-Ndiagu Obuno (Holy Angel)-Akpawfu-Amagunze Roads, traversing Nkanu West and Nkanu East LGAs, among others, are set to open up rural communities, facilitating trade and access to essential services.
The government’s infrastructure drive has garnered national attention. During a recent visit to commission multiple projects, President Bola Tinubu remarked, “Governor Mbah is doing a fantastic job. Enugu is witnessing unprecedented development under his leadership.”
Transportation Infrastructure: Boosting Mobility and Economic Growth
One of the defining projects of Governor Mbah’s administration is the development of modern transportation infrastructure to support economic expansion and ease mobility across the state. A major highlight is the construction of three new ultra-modern bus terminals in Gariki, Holy Ghost, and Nsukka, designed to enhance the efficiency of public transport. These terminals provide organized transport hubs, reduce congestion, and create a structured system for both commuters and transport operators.
The significance of these terminals extends beyond transportation; they serve as commercial hubs that will stimulate local businesses, create jobs, and improve urban planning. Governor Mbah emphasized their economic impact, stating, “A well-structured transport system is crucial for economic growth. These terminals will not only provide a seamless travel experience but also contribute to our broader vision of making Enugu a model city.”
Completion of Abandoned Projects
The Mbah administration has prioritized the completion of several long-abandoned projects to boost economic activities and create employment opportunities:
International Conference Centre (ICC): After nearly two decades of stagnation, the ICC was recently completed and among the projects inaugurated by President Tinubu. With a 3,000-seat main auditorium and additional facilities, the centre is poised to attract national and international events, thereby stimulating the local economy through increased tourism and related services.
Hotel Presidential: Once a landmark in Enugu, Hotel Presidential had fallen into disrepair. The current administration has begun its remodelling and completion. Upon completion, the hotel is expected to provide hospitality services, create numerous jobs, and serve as a hub for business and leisure activities.
300-Bed Specialist Hospital: The state government has announced plans to complete the long-abandoned international hospital, which has been pending for over 15 years. Once operational, this 300-bed specialist hospital will offer advanced medical services, reducing the need for residents to seek treatment elsewhere and creating employment opportunities for healthcare and ancillary professionals.
Enhancement of Primary Healthcare Infrastructure
Recognizing the critical role of primary healthcare in community well-being, the Mbah administration has embarked on an ambitious project to construct 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state’s 17 local government areas. These centres are designed to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including maternal and child health, immunizations, and treatment of common ailments. The initiative also includes the recruitment of 450 clinical and non-clinical personnel to ensure round-the-clock service delivery.
The World Health Organization has commended this effort, noting that such investments are pivotal for achieving health security and universal health coverage. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like Elephant Healthcare aim to equip these centres with digital tools, enhancing service delivery and data management.
Revitalization of Niger Gas Ltd
In a strategic move to boost industrialization, the Enugu State government has partnered with Ten Gas Development Company Limited to revive the moribund Niger Gas Ltd. This collaboration aims to restore gas production, which is essential for various industries. The revitalization is expected to attract manufacturing companies reliant on gas, thereby creating jobs and stimulating economic activities in the region.
Enugu State Government in January this year initiated a strategic partnership with Landmark Africa Group to revitalize the iconic Nike Lake Resort Hotel. This collaboration involves a joint venture where the state government contributes the resort as an asset, while Landmark Africa commits to injecting over ₦10 billion in the first phase to restore the facility to its former glory. Governor Mbah emphasized that this initiative aligns with his administration’s goal of expanding the state’s economy to $30 billion within the next six years. “The optimization of the activities of the Resort is quite consistent with what we call connecting the dots in line with ambition to grow our economy to $30bn in the next six years,” he stated.
The project aims to attract two million visitors annually, boosting tourism, job creation, and Internally Generated Revenue. Landmark CEO Paul Onwuanibe said, “We will make sure that this is going to be a very big win… We intend to invest over N10bn in the first phase.”
Redefining Internal Revenue Generation for Economic Expansion
A critical driver of the Mbah administration’s economic reforms is its revenue mobilization strategy. The Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS) has set a groundbreaking revenue projection of ₦509 billion, an unprecedented move for a state that previously relied on federal allocations. This transformation is anchored on tax reforms, the digitalization of revenue collection, and the formalization of revenue collection from the informal sector.
In a decisive step to strengthen fiscal independence, Governor Peter Mbah recently announced the granting of full autonomy to the state’s revenue body. This strategic move is expected to enhance efficiency, curb revenue leakages, and foster a transparent, accountable tax administration system. The benefits of this autonomy include improved revenue collection, increased investor confidence, and the capacity to finance critical infrastructure projects without over-reliance on federal allocations.
Public finance expert, Mrs. Otiji Ifeoma Catherine, former Chairman of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, Enugu District and Society, has described the revenue drive as “a model that other states should study.” Otiji who was Vice Chairman, ICAN Eastern Zonal Districts and Pioneer Chairperson, Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria SWAN, Enugu Chapter, asserts: “What Enugu is doing with revenue generation is revolutionary. The state is ensuring that every taxable activity is accounted for, while also closing leakages and automating the tax system. This is how economies grow.”
The implications of this move are evident: more funds for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and industrialization. Unlike many states that depend on oil revenue, Enugu is positioning itself as a self-sustaining economy capable of funding its own development agenda. No wonder, Governor Mbah is a member of the recently inaugurated Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion which reinforces president Tinubu’s poise to achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
Digital Economy and ICT: A Forward-Looking Vision
Governor Peter Mbah’s administration is laying the foundation for a thriving digital economy by integrating ICT across various sectors. The “Enugu Safe City” project, powered by digital surveillance and smart technology, is enhancing security, thereby creating a safer environment for businesses and residents. Additionally, the deployment of e-government platforms is streamlining bureaucratic processes, reducing inefficiencies, and fostering a transparent and accountable governance structure.
The Enugu Smart School Project, which aims to establish 260 technology-driven schools, is a game-changer in education. By equipping students with digital learning tools and integrating ICT into the curriculum, the state is preparing its youth for careers in technology, software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. This initiative ensures that graduates will not only be employable within Nigeria but also globally competitive in an increasingly digital world.
What this portends for the future is a digitally literate workforce capable of driving innovation, attracting tech investments, and positioning Enugu as a hub for ICT-driven economic growth. The ripple effects of this initiative will be felt in various industries, including fintech, digital marketing, and e-commerce, further expanding employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
Supporting SMEs: The Backbone of Economic Resilience
Recognizing that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are vital to economic sustainability, Governor Mbah’s administration has introduced policies and structures that foster entrepreneurship and business growth. The Enugu SME Agency has been instrumental in providing targeted training, mentorship, and funding opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. By improving access to credit and connecting small businesses with larger markets, the administration is creating a thriving business ecosystem.
The recently passed Enugu Startup Bill offers incentives such as tax breaks and funding access, making it easier for young entrepreneurs to scale their businesses. This will not only encourage innovation but also drive job creation, reducing youth unemployment significantly. According to Mr. Arinze Chilo-Offiah, Special Adviser to the Governor on SMEs and Digital Economy, “By creating a conducive environment for SMEs, we are building a resilient economy that will thrive in both local and international markets.”
Looking ahead, these initiatives will position Enugu as a leading business-friendly state, attracting investors and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. With SMEs contributing significantly to employment and GDP growth, the state is set to become a model for economic resilience and grassroots development.
Smart Green Schools: Building Sustainability into Education
While the Smart Green Schools initiative has been widely praised, some stakeholders remain skeptical about its long-term sustainability. Critics argue that maintaining solar-powered infrastructure and eco-friendly materials in a developing economy may pose challenges, especially in terms of cost, technical expertise, and policy continuity beyond the current administration. Others worry about whether sufficient investment has been made in teacher training to maximize the benefits of these advanced learning environments.
However, the Mbah administration has made it clear that this initiative is not just an experiment but a well-thought-out policy designed for long-term impact. By integrating sustainability into the state’s educational framework, Enugu is aligning itself with global best practices in climate-conscious development. These schools will not only reduce the state’s energy costs over time but also serve as models for future public infrastructure projects across Nigeria.
Beyond infrastructure, the curriculum will emphasize environmental consciousness, renewable energy, and sustainable practices. This approach prepares students for future careers in green technology, environmental management, and sustainable urban planning – industries that are expected to see exponential growth in the coming decades.
Governor Mbah’s commitment to climate action through education signals a progressive shift in governance. This initiative ensures that Enugu’s future workforce is not just educated but also equipped with the skills and mindset needed to tackle global sustainability challenges. The project will attract investors and organizations interested in green initiatives, further boosting job creation and economic diversification.
Setting a New Standard for Governance in Nigeria
Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership is reshaping the governance landscape in Nigeria. By prioritizing economic transformation, digitalization, and sustainable development, he is setting a precedent for how sub-national governments can drive real change.
The integration of technology, support for SMEs, and investment in green infrastructure are not just policies; they are strategic reforms designed to secure Enugu’s place in the global economy. As Dr. Chinedu Okeke, a development economist, aptly put it, “Governor Mbah’s leadership is not just about policies; it is about the execution of a vision that will make Enugu a model state in Nigeria.”
Unlike many states that depend on oil revenue, Enugu is positioning itself as a self-sustaining economy capable of funding its own development agenda. With a projected $30 billion economy in sight, Enugu is not only attracting investors but also creating a workforce that is future-ready. Governor Peter Mbah’s development drive is reshaping Enugu’s landscape, lending credence to the state’s ‘Tomorrow is Here’ mantra.
Celebrating a Visionary Leader – Happy Birthday, Dr. Peter Mbah!
Ogbodo, a veteran broadcaster with over two decades of experience and the Managing Partner at GMTNewsng.com, writes from Enugu and can be reached at [email protected].
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