••• Governor Mbah urges diaspora investors to tap into new opportunities as Enugu strengthens infrastructure, eases business entry.
● Roberts Ojie Correspondent-at-Large GMTNewsng
In a strategic move aimed at driving industrialisation and job creation, the Enugu State Government has signed a landmark Novation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Lion Business Park Limited. The agreement sets the stage for the development of a world-class industrial and commercial hub within the Enugu Industrial Park Free Trade Zone.
Governor Peter Mbah, who presided over the ceremony in Enugu, described the partnership as a critical step in realising his administration’s vision of transforming Enugu into Nigeria’s top investment destination. He reiterated his government’s readiness to provide critical infrastructure and a secure business environment to enable private sector growth.
“We guarantee your business,” Mbah assured. “This is a call to our brothers and sisters in the diaspora to take advantage of our stable policies, competitive returns on investment, and secure environment. There’s no better time to invest in Enugu than now.”
Governor, Enugu State (2nd right) in a handshake with Chairman, Lion Business Park Limited, Dr. Okechukwu Mbonu (2nd left), Commissioners for Lands (L); and Justice (R) look on excitedly. (Photo credit: Enugu Govt. House Press)
Governor Mbah stressed that the decision to strengthen state investment in the Lion Business Park project was deliberate and calculated. “We see this project as a finished product. From the dry port license to free trade zone approvals, the groundwork has been done. Our job is to ensure full functionality through infrastructure support,” he explained.
According to Mbah, the park’s location was a product of strategic planning. “It is less than 25 minutes from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, under two hours to Asaba, and three hours to the Onne Seaport. No other park has such connectivity,” he remarked.
The governor outlined his administration’s economic agenda of raising the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion, noting that partnerships like the one with Lion Business Park were essential to meeting that target.
He added that his government had already begun delivering on promises by investing in energy, roads, and industrial infrastructure, critical enablers of the economic ecosystem. “We are not waiting for tomorrow. Tomorrow is already here,” Mbah stated.
While commending local communities for their cooperation, Mbah urged continued support for investors. “Development thrives where communities welcome progress. I urge our people to remain partners in the journey toward shared prosperity,” he said.
Chairman of Lion Business Park Limited, Dr. Okechukwu Mbonu lauded the Mbah administration for its swift reforms and infrastructural commitments, saying the renewed partnership was a reflection of leadership that walks the talk. “This is indeed a case of a promise made and fulfilled,” he said.
Mbonu further explained that the project would catalyse trade, attract foreign direct investment, and stimulate industrial growth. “We are committed to building a hub that supports innovation, human capital development, and job creation for Enugu’s youth,” he stated.
He emphasised that the benefits of the park would stretch beyond Enugu State to the South East and the Nigerian economy at large. “The Free Trade Zone offers unique incentives, and this location presents immense logistics advantages for local and international investors alike,” Mbonu added.
With the signing of the MOU, both parties are expected to fast-track implementation, with construction set to begin in phases. As expectations soar, Enugu State appears poised for a new wave of industrial growth that could redefine its economic landscape. GMTNewsng
