Mbah flags off construction of 141 roads, pledges unwavering commitment to Enugu’s growth
Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, has reaffirmed that residents of the state deserve top-tier infrastructure to drive its development. The governor made this declaration while commencing the construction of 141 urban roads across 13 zones within the state capital.
Speaking at the official launch held at Ologo in the Coal Camp Zone (Enugu North LGA) and Monaque Avenue in the Awkunanaw Zone (Enugu South LGA), Mbah stressed that these projects align with his administration’s vision to eradicate poverty, expand Enugu State’s economy to $30 billion, and position the state as a premier hub for investment, commerce, tourism, and quality living.
“This initiative goes beyond merely laying tarmac on our roads. It is about empowering women and establishing a framework for wealth creation. Our commitment to eliminating poverty cannot be achieved through wishful thinking alone; it requires strategic action by the government to ensure that hunger becomes a thing of the past in our communities. Infrastructure, such as roads, plays a pivotal role in our economic progress,” Mbah asserted.
He further explained that improved roads would lead to increased business activity and reduced transport costs, ultimately enhancing the financial well-being of residents.
“When a commercial tricycle (Keke) operator knows he will be travelling on well-paved roads, he will charge passengers less. This results in greater disposable income for individuals, helping to reduce poverty within our communities,” he added.
Mbah revealed that the 141 road projects have been categorised into 17 lots to ensure their completion within three months. He assured residents that funds have been secured, and thorough vetting of contractors has been conducted to guarantee that only competent firms execute the projects.
Residents of the beneficiary areas expressed gratitude for the long-overdue intervention. A resident of Ologo, Chief Chris Okaka, and the President-General of Amechi-Uwani, Chief Ifeanyi Nnaji, commended the governor for prioritising their communities after over four decades of neglect by past administrations.
“For the past 40 years, no government has repaired this road. We even had to collect money from households to fix one side of the drainage. However, we couldn’t complete the project due to financial struggles,” Okaka shared.
“But I told everyone that Governor Peter Mbah would intervene, and today, you are here to fulfil that promise. By 2027, if we see any other campaign poster here, we will remove it. You are going for your second term,” he declared.
The Council Chairmen of Enugu North and Enugu South, Hon Ibenaku Onoh and Hon Caleb Ani, commended the ward-based development approach of Mbah’s administration, stating that it has made governance more effective at the grassroots level.
“We will continue to support grassroots development, following your example in prioritising projects that directly benefit the people. When the time comes, the people of Enugu State will show their appreciation through unwavering support,” Onoh assured.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr Gerald Otiji, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Project Development and Implementation, pledged rigorous oversight and strict quality control throughout the construction process.
The contractors, having met the state’s stringent procurement standards, reassured the governor of timely and high-quality project execution.
The road construction project spans several areas, including Abakpa, Achara Layout, Asata, Awkunanaw, Coal Camp, Independence Layout, New Haven, Old GRA, Thinkers Corner, Trans-Ekulu, and Uwani.
