● Ferdy Agu
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has officially launched the dualization of the Penoks-Abakpa Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road, a transformative 43.7-kilometer project that promises to reshape connectivity, economic vitality, and public safety across the region. With a bold 18-month completion timeline and street lighting along its entire length, the road project reflects Mbah’s mission to position Enugu as a premier destination for investment, business, and tourism. GMTNewsng had initially broken the news of the flag-off, which drew in leaders, community figures, and stakeholders from across the state.
The launch ceremony held in Opi was marked by widespread support, including a significant endorsement from Dennis Agbo, a Labour Party member and the representative for Igboeze North/Udenu in the House of Representatives. Agbo praised Mbah’s vision and underscored the bipartisan momentum behind the governor’s initiatives. “This road is a transformational project that will facilitate commerce, ease mass transit, support farmers, and strengthen security in Enugu North. Our governor has clearly demonstrated his ability to see and unlock the state’s enormous potential. Enugu has suddenly become a reference point for transformational projects,” Agbo stated. His support, as a Labour Party leader, highlights the cross-party confidence in Mbah’s development agenda and amplifies the project’s impact.
Governor Mbah addressed the crowd, emphasizing that the new road would reduce travel time from Enugu to Nsukka by half, enhancing daily convenience for residents. “A trip from Enugu to Nsukka now takes over an hour, but with this road, we will bring that down to about 30 minutes. This will allow people to live and work comfortably in either area and improve accessibility overall,” Mbah said. He added that straightening several of the road’s dangerous bends would increase safety and reduce accidents—a priority he reiterated throughout the event.
HRH Igwe Samuel Asadu speaking at the event, Monday
Traditional leaders in attendance voiced enthusiastic support. Igwe Samuel Asadu, the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani and Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, expressed profound gratitude, calling Mbah “godsent.” “The people of Nsukka cultural zone never imagined a project of this magnitude would happen in their lifetimes. Governor Mbah, you do not need to campaign for a second term because we will campaign for you ourselves,” Igwe Asadu said, underscoring the governor’s growing popularity.
Deputy Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Ezeani Ezenta, also expressed his admiration, pointing out that the governor’s actions had silenced critics. “A lot was said during the election, but today, you have proven yourself more Nsukka than any Nsukka man,” Ezenta remarked, emphasizing the positive emotional response from the community and the confidence in Mbah’s leadership.
The importance of the project was further echoed by former Deputy Governor Chief Okechukwu Itanyi, who described the road as “gigantic and unbelievable.” He noted that the infrastructure would open up Nsukka to the world, creating new economic and social opportunities. “This is a legacy project that will etch your name in Enugu’s history, Governor Mbah,” Itanyi added, a sentiment shared by many present.
Other prominent leaders, including the Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Hon. Jude Asogwa, and former Secretaries to the State Government Dr. Dan Shere and Prof. Simon Ortuanya, praised Mbah’s development strategy, particularly its focus on grassroots impact. They highlighted how Mbah’s model would benefit Enugu North by delivering critical infrastructure to its 102 electoral wards, including roads, schools, and healthcare centers.
Agbo’s endorsement of the project holds particular weight in light of his Labour Party affiliation, as it underscores Mbah’s bipartisan appeal and solidifies his reputation as a unifying leader. “For Enugu North, this project is not just about road infrastructure; it’s a step that will empower local businesses, reduce transportation costs, and create a more secure environment,” Agbo explained. His support highlights how the road will help unlock economic potential, benefiting businesses and farmers while providing improved access to markets.
Gov Mbah (middle) flanked on his left by the Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Uche Anya; Prof Chidiebere Onyia, SSG on his far right and member representing Nkanu East and West Fed. Constituency, Nnolim Nnaji on the bear right at Opi Nsukka on Monday
Member representing Nkanu East/Nkanu West, Hon. Nnoli Nnaji, further endorsed Mbah’s agenda, expressing satisfaction with the state’s direction. “Governor Mbah has our full support. His projects are creating a prosperous future for Enugu, and we are committed to seeing these plans to completion,” he pledged on behalf of the Enugu State Caucus in the National Assembly.
Cosmas Agu, CEO of COMAG Construction Company, which is overseeing the project, assured the crowd that the work would be done on schedule and to high standards. “We are committed to delivering this project on time and with the quality Governor Mbah has envisioned,” Agu promised, setting expectations for smooth, professional execution.
As the road’s construction gets underway, Enugu stands poised for a major transformation. The Penoks-Abakpa Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road, under Governor Mbah’s guidance and backed by supporters like Dennis Agbo, will serve as a catalyst for economic growth and unity across Enugu, further cementing Mbah’s reputation as a leader focused on progress and inclusivity for all regions of the state. GMTNewsng
