● Ferdy Agu
In alignment with Governor Peter Mbah’s ambitious 10km-per-ward roads initiative, the Enugu East Local Government Council has launched a comprehensive needs assessment of road infrastructure across its 12 electoral wards. This initiative began on Monday at the council headquarters, Nkwo Nike, marking a proactive step toward achieving the governor’s vision of state-wide infrastructural transformation.
At the kick-off exercise, the Deputy Chairman of the council, Engr. Kingsley Anike, representing the Executive Chairman, Hon. Beloved Dan Anike, emphasized the significance of the exercise. He urged the committee to prioritize roads that address the immediate short and long-term development needs of the communities. “This initiative is central to unlocking the socio-economic potential of our LGA. I encourage you to deliver a thorough and impactful report,” he said.
The committee, chaired by Engr. Greg Nnaji, the immediate past Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Enugu State, praised Governor Mbah for his inclusive and forward-thinking governance. “This initiative underscores the governor’s dedication to equitable development across all wards. We are committed to delivering actionable recommendations that will support the council’s efforts in driving progress,” Nnaji assured.
Deputy Chairman, Enugu East LG council Engr. Kingsley Anike (3rd from right) in a handshake with committee chairman Engr Greg Nnaji while others look on at Nkwo Nike on Monday
Hon. Beloved Dan Anike, through his deputy, commended the committee’s composition and leadership. He described Engr. Nnaji as a seasoned professional with unparalleled expertise in infrastructure development. “His experience makes him the ideal leader for this pivotal assignment,” he added.
The committee’s Secretary, Mr. Celestine Akwuwa, outlined the scope of the assessment, which includes documenting, evaluating, and prioritizing roads based on their conditions, economic significance, and community impact. “Our aim is to ensure the selected roads yield maximum benefits for the entire LGA,” he noted.
Engr. Nnaji further explained that the committee’s findings would guide strategic road projects, focusing on enhancing connectivity, market access, and economic activities. “Our work will lay a foundation for sustainable development in our communities,” he remarked.
The exercise is supported by Allot Nigeria Ltd., a consulting firm specializing in GPS mapping and geo-tagged imagery. Using tools like Mapillary, the team will create an accurate and detailed inventory of the roads to be developed or rehabilitated.
Field activities commenced with visits to key routes in two wards – Ugwogo and Mbuluiyiukwu, led by committee members, Hon. Chris Ugwu from Ugwogo, Honourable Emma Ede and Raymond Ejike Anike councillors of Ugwogo and Iyiukwu wards respectively, including Chief Ikechukwu Ogbu, guided the team through locations for assessment and engagement with community members in the wards to pinpoint priority areas for road development.
The team at Agbogazi-Isiuzo road junction, Monday
Prominent committee members, such as Rt. Hon. Dennis Agbo & Hon. Barr. Umeadi Nkwonta, Chief Nnamdi Mbah, Barr Ogbonna Anike and other members, played active roles in the exercise. “This project is a commitment to ensuring no ward is left behind in Enugu East’s development journey,” said Rt. Hon Agbo.
Residents expressed optimism about the project, with community leaders applauding the council’s initiative. “This assessment gives us hope for improved accessibility and better road infrastructure in our daily lives,” Joseph Ugwu remarked at Agbogazi during a team visit.
Engr. Anike commended the committee’s professionalism and dedication, noting that their work reflects the council’s commitment to Governor Mbah’s vision. “Their efforts set the pace for infrastructural transformation across the state,” he stated.
As the assessment continues until next week, Enugu East LGA stands out as the first council to align actively with the governor Mbah’s 10km-per-ward roads initiative. Stakeholders are confident the results will establish a solid framework for developing a robust and sustainable road network to drive economic and community growth in the LGA. GMTNewsng
