Renewing and Repositioning the Coal City: Governor Peter Mbah’s Transformational Odyssey
By Maxwell Menkiti Ngene
In the heart of Nigeria’s southeast geopolitical zone, Enugu State is undergoing a profound transformation. Under the visionary and committed leadership of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Enugu, the Coal City is being reborn, and its infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and economy are revitalized. As Mbah marks his second anniversary in office, the fruits of his labour are clearly evident for everyone to see.
Notably, Mbah’s administration has embarked on an ambitious infrastructure development programme designed to unlock Enugu’s latent vast economic potential. Over 800 kilometres of roads have been constructed, linking farms to marketplaces, industries to schools, and hospitals to homes. The state’s moribund transportation network has been strengthened with the completion of five ultra-modern terminals, a game-changer for commuters and traders alike.
Building on this momentum, education has become a cornerstone of Mbah’s disruptive innovation and transformation agenda. His government has invested heavily in creating a 21st-century learning environment, with the finished and ongoing construction of 260 Smart Green Schools. These information and technologically driven institutions are equipped with interactive digital whiteboards, science laboratories, and solar-powered experiential learning spaces, providing students with a world-class education.
Furthermore, the Mbah’s administration has prioritised healthcare, recognizing its critical role in ensuring the well-being of citizens. Consequently, the state has witnessed the construction of 260 fully equipped Primary Healthcare Centres, each designed with staff quarters, solar panels, and clean water. This bold initiative has significantly improved access to quality healthcare services, saving countless lives and reducing infant mortality and morbidity.
Meanwhile, in the area of state security, the governor’s security strategy has yielded impressive results, with the launch of a state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre built inside the Government House and the deployment of artificial intelligence-enabled security patrol vehicles. This proactive approach has enhanced safety and stability, creating a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
As a direct result of these efforts, Enugu’s economy has witnessed a significant boost, with internally generated revenue increasing by over 600% and investment drives yielding promising returns. Additionally, Mbah’s government has made significant strides in agriculture, acquiring vast tracts of farmland to boost food production and promote economic growth.
In a similar vein, the state’s tourism sector has been revitalized, with the completion of the International Conference Centre, Presidential Hotel, Tomorrow is Here shopping mall, and the mini dome conference hall. Work is ongoing at the newly conceived Enugu International Conference 5-star Hotel, proximate to the International Conference Centre. These iconic landmarks are poised to position Enugu as the preferred destination for business and leisure travelers.
Ultimately, as Governor Peter Mbah continues to steer Enugu State toward a brighter future, his transformational vision is inspiring hope and confidence among the people. With his unwavering commitment to good governance and his unshakeable faith in the potential of the Coal City, Mbah is rewriting the narrative of Enugu’s history as a civil service state, forging a new era of prosperity, growth, and development.