Governor Ugwuanyi and Jubilant Enugu Traders!

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, accompanied by his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani, and others, acknowledging cheers from jubilant traders and teeming supporters during the 6th monthly raffle draw of the second phase of the state's Traders Empowerment Scheme, held at Aria Market Enugu, on Tuesday.

During the empowerment programme which took place simultaneously across the 54 designated markets in the state, 200 traders emerged winners, bringing up the total number of all the beneficiaries to 2400 since its inception in 2017.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, while congratulating all the winners, reiterated his administration's "unwavering commitment to improving the standard of living of the people and ensuring that opportunities for growth and rapid development are extended to every corner and to every class of people in Enugu State".

 

Keke, Taxi Operators hail Ugwuanyi’s friendly policies, drum support for his re-election

Operators of tricycles (Keke) and taxis in Enugu State have hailed Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for his administration’s people-oriented programmes and friendly policies that have made it possible for them to operate favourably in the state.

The transport operators said that the governor has through his magnanimity and commitment to the wellbeing of the masses, taken measures that have ameliorated the sufferings they encounter in the running of their businesses in the state.

In a separate reaction, the state Chairman of the Association of Tricycle (KEKE) Riders Transport Union, Comrade Benjamin Ikah thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for heeding their request for the introduction of Rider’s Permit.

Comrade Ikah said that the governor came to their rescue when it mattered most, stressing that the Rider’s Permit, which they unanimously requested for, was “far much cheaper and favorable to us and has ameliorated our sufferings”.

He explained that prior to the introduction of the permit, which is at the cost of N6,000 for a three-year duration, the Keke and Okada operators in the state spent “N18,000 and N22,000 to obtain Driver’s License”, expressing delight that the governor in his magnanimity and kind-heartedness acceded to their appeal timely.

“After an extensive deliberation and negotiation with the state government, we the Keke and Okada riders unanimously agreed to be paying N6,000 for Rider's Permit, which is renewable after three years, courtesy of the magnanimity of our kind-hearted Governor”, he stated.

Similarly, members of the Coal City Cab/Taxi Operators Union, during their solidarity visit to the Government House, Enugu, unanimously endorsed Gov. Ugwuanyi for a second term in office and praised his “fatherly counsel” and administration’s giant development strides in the state.

Presenting their address, the Chairman of the Union, Comrade Ajogwu Samuel Chinedu, who described the governor as “a man of integrity, high profile discipline and a God-fearing leader” with a large heart and accommodating spirit, equally commended his administration’s friendly policies and efforts in uniting the body.

He added that the governor has performed creditably in the area of infrastructural development, education, health, security, and prompt payment of workers’ salaries including the 13th month salary “which has never happened in the history of Enugu State”.

The union also applauded the governor for the N10 million grant to over 450 autonomous communities in the state to execute pressing projects of their choice, stressing that it is the first of its kind in the history of the state.

The union also applauded the governor for the N10 million grant to over 450 autonomous communities in the state to execute pressing projects of their choice, stressing that it is the first of its kind in the history of the state.

“Your Excellency, what you have done within three years of your governance is innumerable and based on that, we the Coal City Cab/Taxi Operators Union unanimously decided to celebrate your life touching governance and to endorse you for a second term in office.

“We are very grateful to the Almighty God for the privilege to be with our own dear Governor who has been going about doing good to all manner of individuals and groups in Enugu State”, they said.

Louis Amoke
Writes from Enugu State

Police laud Ugwuanyi on crime drop in Enugu

...Appreciate his support, assistance

The Chairman of the newly inaugurated Police Service Commission (PSC), Mr. Musiliu Smith has applauded Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for the support and assistance his administration has been giving the Nigerian Police Force in the state to effectively discharge its duties.

Mr. Smith stated that the governor’s supportive role to the police has resulted to “a considerable drop in crime rate in this state”, adding that it has also gone a long way in lifting the moral of the officers and men of the force, ensuring positive results.

The former Inspector General of Police, who spoke through the Commissioner representing the South-South geopolitical zone in the Commission, Hon. Austin Braimoh, during a courtesy visit to the Government House, Enugu, told Gov. Ugwuanyi that “the Police Service Commission has been informed of your generous efforts and assistance”.

The Chairman applauded the governor “for accepting to set up operational offices for our zonal operations”, disclosing that it would ensure effective control of the community policing in the state.

He maintained that it was because of the governor’s huge investment in security that Enugu has become one of the most secure and peaceful states in the country.

His words: “We came today as the first state to receive this body in this country because we have been told all that you (Ugwuanyi) have been doing to support the Nigerian Police Force. This has gone a long way in uplifting the moral and ensuring that the police force is properly managed. We appreciate you for this”.

Responding, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for finding the members worthy of appointment into the important office, also congratulated them “on their well-deserved appointments”.

The governor pledged his administration’s cooperation and support to the commission towards the effective discharge of its responsibilities “as they relate to Enugu State”.

He expressed hope that the body would among other positive efforts, ensure the recruitment of sufficient number of police officers that will help to combat the security challenges currently confronting the nation.

“We thank you for deeming it fit to visit us today, affording us the opportunity to interact with you and also share thoughts on areas of mutual interest and cooperation”, the governor added.

Louis Amoke
Writes from Enugu State.

Enugu State @ 27, we will continue to serve you with the fear of God, Gov. Ugwuanyi assures Ndi Enugu

On the historic occasion of the 27th Anniversary of the creation of Enugu State today, we wish to sincerely express our profound joy and gratitude to the God of Abraham, God of Isaac, God of Jacob and the awesome God of David for the journey so far.

We thank Ndi Enugu, the true heroes of democracy for the mandate they graciously gave to us to pilot the affairs of the state, and for their continued support, solidarity and unceasing prayers, which have brought peace and good governance to the state.

We also appreciate the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, the Vice President, His Excellency, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, GCON, and other leaders in the country for their commitment towards the development of Enugu State.

We acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of the past leaders and founding fathers of Enugu State, including those of blessed memory, who through their vision, industry and tenacity saw to the creation and growth of the state.

Our gratitude equally goes to all stakeholders of Enugu State.

We acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of the past leaders and founding fathers of Enugu State, including those of blessed memory, who through their vision, industry and tenacity saw to the creation and growth of the state.

Our gratitude equally goes to all stakeholders of Enugu State - past and serving members of the National and State Assemblies, National and State Executive Council members, the Judiciary, Local Government Chairmen, the Clergy, our revered Royal Fathers, elders of Enugu State, and others - who have been collectively working for the peace and progress of the state.

We reassure Ndi Enugu of our firm resolve to continue to serve them with the fear of God and to deliver on our campaign promises as well as ensure peace, prosperity and security of the state.

Enugu State is in the hands of God.


Dr. G.O.C Ajah, mni
Secretary to the Enugu State Government
27/08/2018

TO OUR POLITICIANS WITH 3RD AND 4TH TERM AGENDA by Paschal N Ugwu

When a businessman refuses to bring his children close to his business, that business collapses immediately he is visited with a serious health challenge or dies.
Some even end up labelling young persons all sorts of names.

Rt. Comr. Paschal N Ugwu

Chairman NYCN, Enugu State Chapter

We have waited for job opportunities,no way.
Waited for economic empowerment, no way.
Waited for political inclusion, no way

With due respect to some that are doing well, we have resolved as young persons to create safe spaces for ourselves.

1)politically by supporting few young persons who have distinguished themselves in different areas into few political positions
2)economically by starting small businesses and acquire skills

In view of this, there shall be a Conference of Young Political Aspirants in Enugu State that would among other things help to equip us with requisite knowledge expected of an aspirant.

You don't just contest, you must have the capacity to bring something to the table.

We salute leaders who have shown interest in youth inclusion
We shall support your aspirations

God bless Enugu State Government
God bless NYCN Enugu State

Together we can!!!

Paschal Nnaemka Ugwu

Writes from Enugu State.

Of UDENU/IGBO EZE NORTH CONSTITUENCY: LAIRS ON THE PROWL

They claim I talk as if I know anything...but i maintain that whenever i talk, it is from the depth of what i know to be true (not even in relative sense). Whenever they come smoking and exhaling these lines of frustration, i smile, knowing that the truth is sinking and dawning on them by the day.

However, i can only understand that such terse conclusion is their own style of blackmail designed to cajole me and inject doubt in the minds of my political audience.

However, i can only understand that such terse conclusion is their own style of blackmail designed to cajole me and inject doubt in the minds of my political audience.
One thing they failed to even appreciate is that while I was with them, they held me as a cult figure and swallowed my words with the voraciousness of an over famished lioness. They hailed each input by intoning Kpokponge Kpokponge with ceaseless relish in adulation.
At such times they consulted me morning and night and even relied on me to know a thing or two. Back then, they did not remember that I was a POLITICAL NOBODY, a flank and side politician whose voice is heard only by himself.

After some few moments of deeper reflections I can only but conclude that their actions today, signal the truth about their frustration and obvious confusion of mind. At such times, lying becomes the privilege of men who have lost bearing in the enterprise of politics.

How do I then summarise them?

I can conveniently say that they lie as if they don't know a thing. But they know. They only choose to ignore the truth I speak to them in a desperate bid to postpone the dooms day. But do lies postpone a doomsday? Evidently No. It can only buy one a measure of time.

Now they are at their lies again. Lies designed to hide the truth. Lies designed to maintain stranglehold on their few remaining supporters. While supporters of other aspirants are increasing by the day, theirs keep depleting. Its then only commonsensical that they generate all manner of lies to keep the remnants under lock and key.

Only last week, they raised the bar of lying which have become their privileges and which they cuddle like they have reached cloud 7 to a ridiculous height.

Constituents of Udenu/ Igbo Eze North Federal Constituency are being inundated with the lies that National Working Committee of PDP has given automatic ticket to all PDP members of the National Assembly.
The lie was so intense that a supporter of one of the aspirants to the House of Representatives told me that he was already concluding arrangements to leave the constituency and never step home till after 4 years.

A sudden paroxysm of laughter gripped my mouth. Tried as I may to calm his fears, he was insistent that I may not have got it right this time around. I let him be.

This morning a close confidant in the camp of our House of Reps member called me with a certain urgency in his voice. He told me plainly that the deed had been done and that their camp will coast home to victory as only one form will be sent down to Enugu for each constituency.

He even told me that their principal is not consulting anybody anymore. I didn't want to puncture his joy bag. I only wished him good luck.

Lies create illusion in the hearts of artful dodgers. It warps their thinking and propels them into delusion. My confident is certainly drinking from the pool of illusion. I can only pity him.

Now this:
They will come here to claim that I speak audaciously as if if I know anything. But I don't bother knowing a thing. But let them spare me this even if for a second.

DNA has no automatic ticket.
PDP is not giving him one.
Peoples power to reject a leadership that aren't working has triumphed and no quantum of lies can change the will of the people to have someone who will represent them as representation demands.

Do I know a thing? No! But this one I know aligns with those other ones I knew for which they hailed KPOKPONGE KPOKPONGE as if reciting their catechism.

Dateline: SEPTEMBER

Onyekachi C Ugwu
Writes from Enugu State.

Father Mbaka praises Enugu governor’s performance, supports his second term

No Vacancy in Enugu Government House, Fr. Mbaka declares

... Reiterates support for Ugwuanyi's re-election

... Extols gov's leadership virtues

The Spiritual Director of Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka on Sunday declared that there is no vacancy in the Enugu State Government House in 2019, stressing that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has done excellently well in office and deserves a second term.

Fr. Mbaka poured encomiums on Gov. Ugwuanyi, describing him as "a good, kindhearted, humble, peace-loving and God-fearing leader", who has judiciously managed the lean resources of the state for the benefit of the people.

The Catholic priest also described Ugwuanyi as "the best Governor so far in Enugu State", adding that he is "an epitome of peace; a sanctuary of conflict resolution and model for rural and urban development".

The cleric, who spoke at the Adoration Arena in Enugu during the Thanksgiving Mass for the governor’s recent victory at the Supreme Court, thanked God for giving the people of the state such an outstanding leader, saying this is the first time since he became a priest, that the state is experiencing peace.

He maintained that Gov. Ugwuanyi is prayer answered, appreciating the people of the state for their unflinching support and prayers for the governor, especially while the protracted legal battle lasted, emphasizing that "it is a Mass of Thanksgiving to God".

Mbaka further stated that Ugwuanyi was "the only governor that pays workers' salaries before the 25th of every month", disclosing that when most states could not pay salaries as a result of the recent federal allocation sharing deadlock, the governor paid, accordingly.

Commending Gov. Ugwuanyi for the security in Enugu State, Fr. Mbaka stated the feat was achieved because of "the reign of peace" in the state and the governor's faithful role as "a good shepherd".

While applauding the governor "for managing the public wealth judiciously and Godly" for the equitable development of the entire state, the outspoken priest prayed against any plot over the governor's re-election in 2019, saying: "I pray to God that this good man with intimidating humility will continue to govern Enugu State till 2023.

"Our governor, God has opened doors for you, no man can close it. Those who are following him should continue to follow him, he is a good man. We have one candidate for the governorship seat in 2019 in Enugu State in the name of Gburugburu (Ugwuanyi). We are begging him to come and complete the good works he has started in Enugu State. Enugu State is behind him. The church, students, teachers, traditional rulers, Adoration Ministry, many others are also behind him.

 hind him.

"I therefore, advise those who want to contest against him to please consider other elective positions", he said, while commending the governor for constructing "for the first time" the road that leads to the Church in Emene, Enugu.

Responding, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its support and unceasing prayers for the success of his administration, noted that it was as a result of God's mercies and special grace that the victory at the Supreme Court was achieved.

Gov. Ugwuanyi recalled that the Adoration Ministry was his first port of call in search of God's grace "when this journey to usher in people-oriented governance in our dear state" began.

an.

According to him, "today, I return to this place, once again to thank our dear able God, who in his Mercies has given us victory at the Supreme Court".

While committing the forthcoming elections of 2019 into God's hands, trusting that the good Lord will surely grant him victory again, as "He did for us in 2015", Gov. Ugwuanyi reassured the people of Enugu State that he will continue to walk in His Light and manage the affairs of the state with the fear of God.

He therefore, called on those who contested the election with him to join hands in moving the state forward.

Louis Amoke writes from Enugu State.

Enugu commences repairs of potholes on urban roads

The Enugu State Government has announced its plan to commence the immediate and comprehensive repairs of emerging potholes on urban carriageways in Enugu and Nsukka, including the intercity roads “to ensure adequate maintenance and sustainability of our roads for safe passage at all times”.

A statement by the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. (Sir) Greg Nnaji, stated that “the State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure Operations Team has taken inventory of potholes at the various locations and made adequate provisions for on-the-spot remediation works”.

The Commissioner added that the repairs will be carried out simultaneously at the different clusters/zones for effective impact and an aggressive maintenance campaign, in keeping with the state government’s urban renewal agenda.

He therefore, appealed to “the general public, the good people of Enugu State, road users including those passing through the state”, to exercise caution during the maintenance exercise.

Louis Amoke writes from Enugu State.

Buratai lauds Ugwuanyi’s support for Military

…As new GOC hails Governor for peace, security in Enugu

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has expressed his immense appreciation to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, for the support his administration has been giving to the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, in securing both the state and its neighbors.

The Army Chief’s message of appreciation was conveyed to Gov. Ugwuanyi by the new General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Boman Kabuk, when he paid a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, to formally introduce himself.

“Your Excellency, I must quickly add that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai is highly appreciative of the support that you have been giving 82 Division. Some of the supports that you have given 82 Division had spilled over in ensuring security in neigbgouring states”, the new GOC said.

Maj. Gen. Kabuk appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for entrusting Enugu State to the hands of God, which he said, was responsible for the existing peace and security in the state, stressing that “there is peace in Enugu State because whatever a man places in the hands of God, no man can tamper with it”.

He stated that Enugu will continue to enjoy peace “because you (Ugwuanyi) have handed over Enugu State into the hands of God”, adding that the existing peace in the state has added value to the Division’s security operations in all the states within its command.

The new GOC, who further appreciated Gov. Ugwuanyi for his contributions towards the successes recorded by the Division during the leadership of the immediate past GOC, Maj. Gen. Adamu Abubakar, also expressed confidence that the governor will continue to give him the support “even more than my predecessor had enjoyed from you”.

He maintained that the military will forever remain grateful and remember Gov. Ugwuanyi for the water project recently built in the barrack that now supplies water to the area and its neighbouring communities; the roads his administration constructed for the military in the 103 Battalion “and the one leading to the water project” and the NOAWA pet project for the wives of fallen heroes, among others.

Maj. Gen. Kabuk equally expressed delight at the governor’s popularity and closeness to the people of the state as well as the overwhelming support and solidarity he enjoys from them, disclosing: “I have also heard Enugu people saying that their governor is the best governor in Africa”.

“I saw it Your Excellency, when the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo visited. I saw the enthusiasm with which your people were rallying around you and, your security could not stop anybody from getting very close to you, which means that your people is your own security.

“That is what it should be in every level of leadership. The people are the security of the leaders. I want to encourage Your Excellency to maintain this level of cordiality with your people”, he added.

The GOC therefore, assured the governor of his commitment to discharge his responsibilities professionally, promising to be responsive and act within the ambit of law.

In his address, Gov. Ugwuanyi, who delightfully welcomed the new GOC to Enugu, also congratulated him for his “posting to this very strategic office”. The governor stated that the Maj. Gen. Kabuk’s new assignment was an eloquent attestation of the trust and confidence the Nigerian Army’s hierarchy reposed in him.

The governor assured the new GOC of his administration’s highest regards, goodwill and friendship.

In his words: “I wish to assure you of our commitment to strengthening this relationship and to continue providing necessary assistance and support to the Division towards the successful discharge of its duties.

“I use this forum also to restate our unrelenting prayers, support and solidarity with the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of this country as a whole, in their current efforts to make the country a safer and more peaceful place for all.

“As a government, we have always maintained and enjoyed a cordial working relationship with your Division and indeed the Nigerian Army as an establishment.

“Along with other security agencies in the state, the Army, through your Division, shares in the credit for helping the state attain and sustain her current status as one of the safest, most secure and most peaceful states in the country.”

Louis Amoke writes from Enugu State.

Enugu State Governor at Work!

Enugu Governor at Work!

Construction of Ebeano Estate internal roads completed to serve as bypass for motorists driving from Ogui road through UBA to Bissalla road, Independence Layout, Enugu, thereby decongesting traffic at the popular "Otigba Junction" and "New Haven Junction" for ease of transportation in those areas.

Enugu State is truly in the hands of God!

By Louis Amoke.

No Vacancy in Enugu, Bishop Chukwuma tells Acting President Osibanjo

The Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province (Anglican Communion), Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuma on Saturday told the Acting President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo that there is no vacancy in Enugu State Government House.

The outspoken Archbishop said the people of Enugu State are at home and happy with the good works and uncommon leadership style of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who he described as “a non-discriminating" politician.

Speaking during the 30th National Biennial Conference of the Student Christian Movement (SCM) of Nigeria held in Enugu, which had in attendance the Acting President and Gov. Ugwuanyi, among other dignitaries, Archbishop Chukwuma appreciated the governor "for his support and concern for the people of Enugu State, especially these children".

He said: "Mr. Acting President, Enugu State is in the hands of God. Ugwuanyi is not a governor that discriminates against anybody and so no vacancy in Enugu Government House, because Enugu State is in the hands of God".

The Archbishop disclosed that Gov. Ugwuanyi's cordial relationship with leaders of other political parties was because he always "gives respect to whom respect is due", stressing that "Enugu Governor respects elders".

Dr. Chukwuma, who expressed gratitude to God for the successful hosting of the conference in Enugu, with the theme: "A Highway of Holiness", equally applauded Prof. Osinbajo for his presence to address the youths on morality and values despite his tight schedule.

He stated that the Acting President's presence at the event was because of his passion and love for the Student Christian Movement (SCM), an organization, which he said was established for the spiritual development of the youth aimed at securing their future as better citizens.

The Acting President in his speech enjoined Nigerian youths to rise up to the challenges of leadership, describing them as “the most vibrant" segment of the population.

He declared that the youth should consider themselves as the leaders of today, not of the future as generally assumed, pointing out that "60 percent of our population is made up of young people"

Earlier in his address, the National President of the Association, Rev. Eric Ighalo, who thanked Acting President Osinbajo, Gov. Ugwuanyi and Archbishop Chukwuma, for their support and active participation in the event, noted that it was a historic outing "for the Nigerian Youth and for Nigerian Christian students in particular".

Highlighting the achievements and contributions of the association to national development and attitudinal change among students, the National President, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for "his transformation of Enugu State", describing him as "the most humane" governor.

"He (Ugwuanyi) has continued to match words with action - even within the very tight funding of the state", Rev. Ighalo stated.

Gov. Ugwuanyi, while welcoming the Acting President and other dignitaries to the state, thanked the National Executive of the SCMN for the honour in holding "this historic conference in Enugu".

The governor added that "it goes to underscore the fact that Enugu State is indeed in the hands of God"

He lauded the association "for the remarkable progress it has continued to make in the prosecution of its mission of working for the acceptance of the Lordship of Jesus Christ by youths especially those in our educational institutions”

The governor further commended the body for its role in “seeking to enthrone righteous leadership both in the Church and in the society by exposing the youth to the influence of the power of God through purposeful leadership training and discipleship".
Louis Amoke writes from Enugu State.

Ugwuanyi moves to complete Enugu Int’l Conference Centre

As government takes possession of Hotel Presidential

…Approves immediate renovation of Hotel’s recreation section

The administration of Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, in keeping with its vision to protect legacy projects of past administrations, has directed the state’s Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to “immediately” initiate and commence the evaluation of outstanding builder's works and other contractual requirements for the completion of the Enugu International Conference Centre.

Briefing newsmen after the meeting of the State Executive Council, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Greg Nnaji, who described the centre as “a legacy project”, disclosed that Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration is desirous to put in place mechanism to complete the edifice in view of its inherent socio-economic benefits to the people of the state.

Also at the briefing, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Rita Mbah, informed newsmen that the state government has taken full possession of the Hotel Presidential, Enugu, and consequently “approved the immediate renovation of the recreation section” of the hotel, following the recent striking out of the court case against the government by an interested party.

Hon. Mbah explained that the renovation exercise will be carried out “in the premier garden, the swimming pool arena, wedding arena and the four tennis courts, among others, stressing that the present administration “is really poised to make sure that the hotel is brought back to a functional state”.

The Culture and Tourism Commissioner also disclosed that the council approved the sum of N77 million for the upgrade and rehabilitation of water supply in Nike Lake Resort Hotel, Enugu, pointing out that the decision was in addition to other interventions earlier made by the government to improve the standard of the three star hotel, such as “the procurement and installation of 500KVA and 650KVA generators”.

On road infrastructure, the Works Commissioner stated that the council awarded contract for the construction of Enugu Eke-Ogui-Oma Eke road near Amah Brewery in Udi Local Government Area to Willangy Nig. Ltd at the cost of N202 million.

 He added that the council approved the designing and scoping of selected rural roads and 25 river crossings (bridges and culverts) across the state under the phase two of Rural Access Mobility Project (RAMP II).

Equally approved, according to Engr. Nnaji, was the sum of N250 million for the immediate repairs of identified emerging potholes on urban and intercity roads in the state, such as the Ugwuogo-Opi-Nsukka road and Ugwuogo-Ikem road, covering close to 40,000 square meters, which translates to 4.5 kilometers.

He further explained that “what we have done is to commence the first phase to ensure that these projects are rehabilitated simultaneously now the rains are reducing”, revealing that the state government agency in charge of road maintenance, NCFC, will work with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to deliver on the project.

The Works Commissioner also stated that the council after the evaluation of the status report on the ongoing rehabilitation works at the Governor’s Lodge in Nsukka, approved a variation cost of N45 million for enhancement of works, and the sum of N62.2 million for further upgrade of the facilities to include external works and beautification, such as landscaping, multi-culture, procurement of generator, water boreholes, among others.

The Commissioner for Information, Hon. Ogbuagu Anikwe, who was also at the briefing, further revealed that the state government through the observation of due process, in line with its commitment to fiscal discipline, accountability and transparency, has saved the sum of N1.82 billion from expenditures, which he said were now being used for the provision of other development needs of the people of the state.

 Hon. Anikwe said that the council approved in principle to establish three model driving schools in the three senatorial zones of the state for proper training of vehicle drivers. He added that the EXCO’s decision was sequel to a memo to the governor by the state Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), which revealed that the majority of crashes in the state were traceable to poor driving habits.
Louis Amoke writes from Enugu State.