Category: News

The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced “a work-free day on Friday,” and imposed a restriction of movement from 8 pm on Friday until 6 pm on Saturday ahead of the Area Council elections.

Wike made the announcement in a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Thursday, urging residents to participate actively in the polls.

His broadcast was contained in a press statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.

He said, “On Saturday, February 21, we will all have a crucial opportunity to shape the future of our great Federal Capital Territory. The election of either new or returning Chairmen and Councillors for the six area councils is a momentous occasion, and I urge you to come out in your numbers to exercise your right to vote.

“I urge you to go to the polls with a sense of purpose and responsibility.

“As we exercise our democratic right, let us do so in an orderly and lawful manner. Let us respect the rules, respect each other, and respect the outcome of the election. We must show the world that we are a mature and responsible electorate, capable of conducting ourselves with dignity and decorum.”

Wike noted that the work-free day and movement restriction were approved by President Bola Tinubu to allow residents to travel to their communities and ensure smooth voting.

“With the approval of President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, I hereby declare Friday, February 20, 2026, as a Work Free Day to enable movement of residents to their various communities to participate in the elections.

“Similarly, the President has approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8 pm on Friday, February 20 to 6pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.

“Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive,” he said.

The minister also commended President Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, saying it reflects a commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.

He added, “To all FCT residents, I urge you to make your voice heard. Come out on Saturday, February 21, 2026 and vote for the candidates of your choice.

“Our prayer, as an administration, is that the elections will facilitate the emergence of such quality leaders that will contribute meaningfully to development, peace and prosperity in the FCT.

“Together, let us build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our territory.”

Voters in Abuja Municipal Area Council, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali will head to the polls to elect chairmen and councillors.

The campaign period, which began in September 2025, is set to conclude today. A total of 68 positions are being contested, including six chairmanship seats and 62 councillorship roles.

Rivers State House of Assembly has suspended impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Ordu.

This followed the recent intervention of President Bola Tinubu in the lingering crisis between the governor and the 27 lawmakers of the Assembly loyal to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The lawmakers had perfected plans to impeach and remove from office the governor and his deputy over alleged misappropriation.

The impeachment move had caused tension in the state, underscoring the deepening battle between the executive and legislative arms.

However, the latest development signals a possible turning point in the crisis, with stakeholders expressing cautious optimism that the presidential intervention will foster renewed cooperation.

The resolution to withdraw further proceedings on the impeachment was announced during Thursday’s plenary shortly after the House concluded deliberations in a Committee of the Whole convened to address the political crisis in the state.

Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, told lawmakers that the decision to withdraw the impeachment notice was reached in deference to the president’s intervention aimed at restoring stability and constitutional order.

Amaewhule also informed the House that all pending court cases filed by the governor, his deputy and the Assembly in relation to the dispute had been withdrawn as part of the peace efforts.

According to him, the move reflects a collective commitment by both arms of government to de-escalate tensions and prioritise governance.

While suspending the impeachment process, lawmakers emphasised that the executive arm must operate strictly within constitutional boundaries.

They expressed hope that Governor Fubara and his deputy would henceforth align their actions with the provisions of the constitution.

Members maintained that the Assembly remains committed to its constitutional mandate of oversight and lawmaking, stressing that the suspension of impeachment should not be misconstrued as a waiver of legislative authority.

As Christians and Muslims in Nigeria and across the world mark the beginning of Lent and Ramadan, Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Governor Peter Mbah, has enjoined Nigerians of both faiths to see the unique convergence as a divine call to embrace values that promote unity, love, service and peaceful co-existence.

Governor Mbah noted that such remarkable coincidence was a reminder that while paths of worship may differ, Nigerians remain united in values of faith, sacrifice, compassion, and devotion to God espoused by the two religions.

This was contained in his message to the people of the state and Nigerians earlier on Ash Wednesday and while also fielding questions from newsmen after a Holy Mass to usher in the Lenten season at the Government House Chapel, Enugu.

“Lent calls Christians to prayer, fasting, penitence, almsgiving, and renewed commitment to love and service. Ramadan invites Muslims into a month of fasting, reflection, charity, and spiritual discipline.

“Both seasons teach restraint, deepen empathy for the less privileged, and strengthen our resolve to live in righteousness and peace” Mbah stated.

He also described Ash Wednesday and Lent as a season of sober reflections and cutting down on excesses, as man must ultimately return to dust.

“Ash Wednesday is also a reminder that we are from dust, and to dust we must return. So, for me, I think it is also a time for us to reflect on our actions and be a better version of who we are as leaders, as workers, as team players.

In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Reverend Calistus Onaga, called on Christians to uphold prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, which he described as the three cardinal principles of Lenten season.

The Anambra State Police Command has urged families, employers, and communities to adopt proactive conflict management strategies following the killing of a trader by his 21-year-old apprentice during a domestic dispute in Onitsha.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the incident which occurred on Sunday at the Fegge area of Onitsha has raised serious concerns about the need for stronger social support systems and early intervention in cases of behavioural misconduct.

The suspect, Chiemerie Anieke, allegedly struck his master, Ikechukwu Nwite, with a pestle during a misunderstanding at their residence. The victim, a trader at the popular Ogbo-Ogwu Bridgehead Medicine Market, died from the blow. The suspect also attacked the victim’s wife, Mrs Ogechukwu Nwite, during the incident.

Preliminary investigations by the police indicate that the altercation followed the deceased’s decision to reprimand the apprentice over alleged misconduct, including pilfering money from the shop, drug use, and keeping late nights.

SP Ikenga, while confirming that the suspect is in custody and the pestle recovered, used the opportunity to outline critical lessons from the tragic event.

‘Warning Signs Should Never Be Ignored’

“The regrettable incident involving a 21-year-old apprentice who allegedly used a pestle to strike his master, resulting in his death, brought a lot of issues to the fore,” Ikenga stated.

He identified early intervention as a key factor in preventing such tragedies, noting that warning signs such as drug abuse, theft, and repeated misconduct should never be overlooked.

“Seeking timely intervention through counselling, rehabilitation, or community mediation can prevent situations from escalating into violence,” he said.

The police spokesperson also addressed the need for employers to balance discipline with structured support. “While correction is necessary, structured approaches, such as involving guardians, community leaders, or appropriate authorities when issues persist, may help reduce tensions and risks,” Ikenga added.

Substance Abuse, Security Measures Cited

The command highlighted substance abuse as a serious risk factor, warning that drug use can impair judgment, increase aggression, and fuel criminal behaviour. It called for professional help to address the problem early.

On security in domestic settings, the police advised that homes which double as workplaces should implement clear boundaries and safety measures, particularly where domestic staff or apprentices reside on the premises.

“The male suspect, Chiemerie Anieke, aged 21, allegedly used a pestle to hit his master, Ikechukwu Nwite, on the head, which led to his death. He also attacked the victim’s wife, Mrs Ogechukwu Nwite, during the incident. The suspect is currently in custody, and the pestle has been recovered,” Ikenga stated.

The command further encouraged parents and guardians to work with law enforcement when addressing serious behavioural issues involving their wards or children.

“This unfortunate event underscores the need for vigilance, proactive conflict management, and stronger social support systems within families, workplaces, and communities,” Ikenga said.

The Anambra State Police Command assured that investigations into the matter are ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court upon completion.

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to translating innovation-driven policies into measurable national outcomes.

Speaking at the 2-Day Strategic Workshop on the Implementation of Presidential Priorities and Ministerial Deliverables held at Lake Greenfield Hotel, Abuja, the Minister emphasized that Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) must serve as practical tools for green growth, economic transformation and effective service delivery under the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Dr. Udeh described the workshop as a defining moment for the Ministry to deliberately align its mandate with the Eight Presidential Priorities, ensuring that all agencies and parastatals operate with clear, measurable, and outcome-driven targets.

He stressed that performance would no longer be assessed by the volume of activities or committees formed, but by tangible impact — including the commercialization of new technologies, the growth of innovation-driven enterprises, workforce development, and practical solutions addressing national challenges across agriculture, health, energy, manufacturing, and the digital economy.

Highlighting the importance of disciplined execution and accountability, the Minister called for strengthened institutional coordination and a renewed focus on implementation. He underscored the Ministry’s commitment to operationalizing the National Research and Innovation Fund (NRIF) as a strategic financing instrument to support milestone-driven research and development projects capable of transforming Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and accelerating green economic transition.

Dr. Kingsley further emphasized the need to build a future-ready workforce through targeted skills development, reskilling, and upskilling initiatives to prepare Nigerians for emerging technologies and green jobs.

He expressed appreciation to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office through its Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (FCDO-PACE) for technical support, urging participants to adopt a solutions-oriented approach that will translate workshop deliberations into concrete, actionable results for national development.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Philip Ndiomu Ebiogeh, stated that the Ministry occupies a central position in Nigeria’s development architecture because the future of industrial competitiveness, climate resilience, green growth, and innovation-led economic diversification depends significantly on how effectively Science, Technology and Innovation are deployed.

He acknowledged the Honourable Minister’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to repositioning the country’s innovation, science, and technology sector to deliver sustainable and inclusive growth.

In his goodwill message, the National Team Lead of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office through the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (FCDO-PACE), Ifeanyi Peters Ugwuoke, who was represented by the Deputy Team Lead, Titilope Fakoya, said the retreat would foster strong collaboration, leadership alignment, and data-driven execution across the Ministry and its agencies.

He added that as partners, they remain fully committed to supporting the Ministry and relevant stakeholders in advancing innovative, inclusive, and green development outcomes in line with national priorities.

The two-day strategic workshop brought together key stakeholders across the Ministry and its agencies to strengthen coordination, enhance performance management frameworks, and ensure effective delivery of Presidential and Ministerial mandates.

Doris Ewoh, Enugu

The Rector of the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Professor Gozie S. Ogbodo, has outlined key achievements of his administration and unveiled a reform agenda aimed at repositioning the institution for greater impact ahead of the institution’s 43rd–50th Convocation Ceremony.

He made this known during a press conference held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the institution’s Council Chamber, outlining his leadership focus on institutional stability, transparency, and inclusive governance since assuming office.

Speaking at the briefing, Prof. Ogbodo noted that internal administrative processes have been strengthened, accountability mechanisms enhanced, and teamwork fostered among staff and management.

As part of efforts to modernize academic delivery, the rector disclosed that the institution has reviewed its curriculum, strengthened entrepreneurship education, and advanced digital learning systems with increased ICT integration in teaching and administration.

Ogbodo also announced a partnership with Cross River State University for a one-year Top-Up Degree Programme that will enable Higher National Diploma (HND) holders to obtain a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree.

“We have concluded arrangements to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Cross River State University to commence a Top-Up Degree Programme for HND holders. This will bridge the long-standing gap between HND and B.Sc. qualifications and open up broader academic and professional opportunities for our graduates,” he said.

He further revealed that IMT has attracted significant local and international investment, including a ₦12.95 billion strategic partnership with Arone Technology to establish what he described as Nigeria’s first world-class tech manufacturing plant.

He also introduced the One Diploma, One Skill initiative, designed to ensure that graduates are industry-ready and globally competitive.

Speaking on the Art, Science, and Technology Exhibition held shortly after the briefing, Ogbodo said the displays reflected the institution’s multidisciplinary strength and practical orientation.

“Today’s exhibition showcases practical solutions, research outputs, technological prototypes, and artistic expressions that demonstrate the creative ingenuity and technical competence of our students and staff,” he said, adding that the exhibition underscored IMT’s mandate as a leading technological institution.

The rector disclosed that new academic units, including a Diploma in Law, the Department of Cybersecurity, and the Department of Taxation, have been established to expand the institution’s academic offerings. He expressed optimism that these additions, alongside ongoing infrastructural development, would boost student enrolment.

On the forthcoming combined 43rd–50th Convocation Ceremony, last held eight years ago, Ogbodo said the event will cover graduates from 2018 to 2025, with a total of 27,848 graduands expected to be awarded diplomas. He added that distinguished Nigerians who have contributed to national development will also be honoured.

According to him, the combined ceremony is intended to clear the backlog of convocations before the institution resumes its annual convocation schedule.

The week-long activities will culminate in the convocation ceremony on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, IMT, Enugu.

Breakdown of Activities for the 43rd–50th Convocation Ceremony Week

Monday – 16/2/2026
Activity: International Press Conference (Management and Ceremonial Committee Members); Convocation Exhibition
Venue: Council Chamber/International Conference Centre
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday – 17/2/2026
Activity: Sports – Jogging, Football, Volleyball, Sack/Spoon Race, etc. (All staff and students are to appear in sportswear.)
Venue: IMT Football Pitch
Time: 8:00 a.m.

Wednesday – 18/2/2026
Activity: NYSC Pre-Mobilization Workshop/IT (for ND II & HND II students) and Movie by ENIF
Venue: International Conference Centre, IMT Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.

Thursday – 19/2/2026
Activity: Convocation Awareness and Culture Day (Staff and Students)
Venue: International Conference Centre, IMT Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.

Friday – 20/2/2026
Activity: Convocation Lecture/New IMT Initiative (All staff and students)
Venue: International Conference Centre, Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.

Saturday – 21/2/2026
Activity: Convocation Day
Venue: International Conference Centre, Enugu
Time: 9:00 a.m.

Sunday – 22/2/2026
Activity: Thanksgiving Service
Venue: Wesley Methodist Church Cathedral, Uwani
Time: 9:00 a.m.

Exclusive Political Feature

With political realignments gradually unfolding ahead of the 2027 general elections, Comrade Chidiebere Aniagu, South East Chairman of the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), has formally declared his intention to contest for the Enugu North and South Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.

His entry introduces an organized labour leader into what is expected to be a competitive contest in one of Enugu State’s most commercially active and demographically diverse constituencies. While party primaries remain ahead, early declarations are already shaping the tone of debate, and Aniagu is positioning his candidacy around measurable policy benchmarks and structured accountability.

Aniagu’s political argument rests heavily on his years within organized transport leadership. As South East Chairman of RTEAN, he has overseen coordination across multiple states, mediated union disputes, and interfaced with regulatory and security institutions. Supporters describe his leadership style as consultative and systems-driven, arguing that managing a large, multi-state association offers practical experience in negotiation, stakeholder engagement, and administrative discipline.

Analysts, however, caution that the transition from union management to federal lawmaking requires technical legislative skill, budget analysis competence, and committee influence – areas where many first-time lawmakers face steep learning curves. Aniagu acknowledges the distinction.

“Legislation is about negotiation, coalition-building, and policy depth,” he said during a recent consultation in Enugu. “I am prepared to work across party lines, invest in legislative research support, and ensure that representation is backed by substance.”

Unlike aspirants who rely solely on broad rhetoric, Aniagu has outlined proposals tied to measurable outcomes. He plans to sponsor a Constituency Skills Development Support Bill aimed at facilitating federally backed vocational and digital training hubs within Enugu North and South. His stated benchmark is that at least 1,000 youths annually should benefit from digital, technical, and vocational skills programmes through partnerships with federal agencies and private-sector collaborators.

Policy observers note that such constituency-based initiatives are viable when supported by effective committee placement and executive cooperation, but they also warn that sustainability and transparent beneficiary selection often determine credibility. Aniagu says his framework would include public documentation of beneficiaries and periodic reporting to constituents.

“Empowerment must move beyond symbolic gestures,” he said. “It must be trackable, measurable, and accessible.”

On infrastructure, Aniagu intends to advocate for increased federal road rehabilitation allocations affecting key corridors within the constituency while strengthening legislative oversight to ensure projects are executed according to specification. Analysts observe that federal road funding depends largely on budget negotiations and strategic alliances within the National Assembly, underscoring the importance of political capital and institutional positioning.

For small-scale traders and transport operators, he proposes structured microcredit pathways aligned with existing federal intervention schemes but redesigned to simplify access processes. “Entrepreneurs struggle more with access than with ideas,” he noted. “Our responsibility is to bridge policy design with practical accessibility.” Economic stakeholders suggest that meaningful reform in this area would require close coordination with federal financial institutions and relevant ministries, again emphasizing the necessity of legislative-executive synergy.

Perhaps the most distinctive element of Aniagu’s platform is his formalized accountability pledge. He has committed to quarterly town hall meetings across the constituency, annual public legislative performance reports, and the publication of documentation detailing bills sponsored, motions moved, and oversight activities undertaken. While such commitments are not unprecedented, they are rarely institutionalized beyond campaign cycles, and whether sustained implementation follows electoral victory often becomes a defining measure of credibility.

“If entrusted with this mandate, I will not disappear after elections,” Aniagu stated. “Representation must be continuous, visible, and evaluable.”

He also pledges to lobby for expanded federal scholarship allocations and intervention projects targeting public schools within the constituency, arguing that sustainable economic growth depends more on human capital development than short-term patronage initiatives. Education advocates note that success in this area typically hinges on strategic participation in budget defense sessions and active engagement within relevant House committees.

The Enugu North and South Federal Constituency seat is widely expected to attract multiple aspirants as party alignments solidify. Incumbency considerations, internal party dynamics, voter mobilization networks, and coalition-building will likely define the eventual outcome. Political analysts suggest Aniagu’s advantage may lie in organized labour networks and grassroots transport structures, but translating sectoral influence into broad-based electoral support will require cross-demographic outreach and disciplined campaign messaging.

Early consultations indicate growing interest among youth clusters and small-business operators, though formal endorsements remain fluid as 2027 approaches. At the core of Aniagu’s campaign narrative is the argument that representation must be both proximate and performance-driven.

“The mandate belongs to the people,” he said. “My responsibility, if elected, will be to ensure that every legislative action reflects their priorities and produces measurable outcomes.”

With about one year before ballots are cast, the race remains open. Yet in a political climate often dominated by slogans, Aniagu’s emphasis on structured reform, numerical benchmarks, and institutional accountability signals an attempt to shift the conversation toward performance metrics rather than personality politics alone. Whether his organized labour experience ultimately translates into electoral success will be determined by voters in 2027, but his early declaration adds policy clarity to an emerging contest and sets a standard against which other aspirants may increasingly be assessed.

President Bola Tinubu will on Monday pay an official visit to Adamawa State, less than 48 hours after he made a similar visit to Kebbi, a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, has disclosed.

During the one-day visit, President Tinubu will inaugurate completed projects, meet with top government officials, and traditional rulers.

Billed for inauguration in the capital, Yola, and Jimeta, is the eight-lane Galadima Aminu Road linking Gimba and the capital. The model school, comprising pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary classes, will also be inaugurated by the President.

Others include the new multipurpose hall, the remodelled High Court, the newly built officers’ complex, and the renovated Government House.

The President will return to Abuja after the inauguration and the interaction with the state’s indigenes.

The Honorable Minister, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST), Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN has congratulated the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and the people of Enugu State on the successful commissioning of the Haier Technology Factory, describing the landmark achievement as a strategic leap forward in Nigeria’s innovation-led industrial transformation.

The Minister stated that the commissioning of the facility represents a concrete demonstration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in action — translating policy vision into tangible industrial capacity, job creation and economic expansion.

The factory, delivered through a strategic partnership between the Enugu State Government and Haier Group, emerged from a forward-looking Memorandum of Understanding facilitated during Dr. Udeh’s tenure as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Enugu State. Its completion marks the realisation of a carefully structured policy framework built on administrative foresight, investor confidence and alignment with the Federal Government’s Science, Technology and Innovation(STI) priorities.

Dr. Udeh commended Governor Mbah’s disciplined leadership and execution capacity, noting that the project reflects governance anchored on strategic planning, accountability and long-term economic vision.

He emphasised that the establishment of the factory advances key pillars of the Renewed Hope Agenda — economic diversification, local manufacturing, value addition, youth empowerment and the strengthening of Nigeria’s science and technology ecosystem.

According to the Minister, the Federal Government remains committed to supporting sub-national initiatives that accelerate industrialisation and deepen innovation capacity across the federation.

He stressed that the synergy between federal policy direction and state-level implementation is essential to building a resilient and competitive national economy.

Designed as a full-scale technology manufacturing and assembly hub, the facility will produce computers, laptops, mobile phones, tricycles, security cameras, smart boards and other digital solutions. Beyond enhancing local content development, the factory is expected to catalyse ancillary industries, promote skills transfer, strengthen technical education and create sustainable employment opportunities for Nigeria’s growing youth population.

Dr. Udeh reaffirmed that FMIST will continue to champion policies and partnerships that attract global technology leaders, drive research and development, and position Nigeria as a premier innovation hub in Africa.

With the commissioning of the Haier Technology Factory, Enugu State reinforces its emergence as a rising technology and manufacturing centre, underscoring how visionary leadership, strategic partnerships and alignment with national policy can transform ambition into inclusive economic growth.

…Restates commitment to national cohesion, Southeast inclusiveness

The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has joined eminent Nigerians in celebrating the 70th birthday of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Onyeabo Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd).

The birthday celebration was marked by a public lecture themed “Leading Nigeria Forward: Strategies for Security and National Cohesion,” held at the International Conference Center in Umuahia, Abia State.

In his address, the President, represented by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, lauded Ihejirika as “a patriot, pan Nigerian, fine gentleman, and a courageous general who served Nigeria as Chief of Army Staff at a very turbulent period in the war against insurgency, and acquitted himself very creditably”.

President Tinubu wished General Ihejirika “a very happy birthday on behalf of the Government and good people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

“Dear General, may God continue to keep and grant you good health so that our nation will continue to draw from your fountain of experience and knowledge, especially in our determined fight against insecurity”, Tinubu said.

The President, through the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, also reiterated his stance that the South East remains critical to his administration’s vision of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030. He noted that this commitment is evident in the approval of $3 billion for the completion of the 2,044 km Eastern Rail Line and $508 million for the upgrade and modernization of infrastructure in Nigeria’s Eastern ports.

“Your sense of industry, your presence, and your prosperity in every part of Nigeria bear testimony to your commitment to nationhood. We will continue to provide a level playing field for all Nigerians to actualize their potential and, by so doing, grow our economy.

“Our administration will continue to build the necessary infrastructure and partner with South East governments to realize the strategic interests of the region. We see this in the recent concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, the airport project at Usulu in Isiala Ngwa Local Government Area, and the establishment of the South East Development Commission,” he explained.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the decentralization of the nation’s policing system by reintroducing subnational policing, as existed in the First Republic.

He also assured the people that his government will continue to give every part of the country a sense of belonging in shaping the nation’s security architecture, which can bolster national cohesion.

He concluded by calling for national unity: “Let us not be divided by something God has designed to enrich our heritage as a people. Only by uniting can we strengthen cohesion, defeat insecurity, and build the Nigeria of our dreams.”

his speech, Governor Alex Otti said that the former Chief of Army Staff is a symbol of courage, sacrifice and bravery in his services to Abia and Nigeria at large, pointing out that his administration appointed Ihejirika as the Chairman, Abia State security council.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Waidi Shaibu who was represented by the Chief of Standard and Evaluation, Nigerian Army, Maj.Gen. Thompson Ugiagbe, said Ihejirika’s services contributed to the national security, and urged the residents of the South-East to support the Army in securing the land.

Also speaking, Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa said he gained a lot of experience from Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika.

PACESETTER reports that Gov. Alex Otti of Abia State; the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), and his Works counterpart, Engr. Dave Umahi, were among dignitaries present at the event.

…We’ll produce 200,000 units of ICT annually, create 100 jobs – Haier VP

…It’s a boost to FG’s quest for a $1 trillion economy – Minister

…Mbah lauds Tinubu’s economic policies

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, on Saturday, inaugurated the Enugu Haier Factory, a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by the Chinese Haier Global Business in partnership with the state government.

This was even as the Vice President of Haier Group, Sun Yongle, said the FDI worth $20 million would produce smart phones, tablets, computers, smart boards, Android televisions, education and health technologies, and renewable energy solutions for electricity, agriculture, and transportation.

The factory, which saw the Mbah Administration provide the land and build the massive structures, among others, while also placing offtake orders of over 25,000 all-in-one desktops and 300,000 tablets to power its 260 Smart Green Schools and encourage the investment, follows the state’s other FDI patterns such as the ongoing electric car assembly plant construction at Owo by the Stallion Group and the Nortra Tractor Assembly Plant and Service Centre, Enugu, an investment by ODK Group of Denmark set for commissioning.h
Inaugurating the factory in the heart of Enugu’s capital city, Governor Mbah said the investment aligned perfectly with the administration’s commitment to repositioning the state as a premier destination for investment, industry, and knowledge-driven growth and its push for a $30 billion economy from $4.4h billion.

“This partnership represents the convergence of vision, innovation, and opportunity – to generate Made in Enugu technologies that compete globally, while enabling us to support key local sector developments.

“It means that the devices empowering our students and that support critical industries will no longer be imported. That is strategic. It reduces costs. It ensures sustainability. And most importantly, it builds local capacity,” he explained.

The governor added that the factory would also serve as a practical training platform for the state’s vocational and technical institutions; generate employment; facilitate technology transfer; stimulate complementary small and medium-scale enterprises and also foster a technology ecosystem in the state.

He hailed President Bola Tinubu’s macro policies, which he said had helped to a great degree in attracting a steady inflow of FDIs.

“This steady inflow of FDIs is an indication that the macro pressures that had hitherto prevailed have eased. We have seen the naira strengthen, our foreign reserves grow exceedingly, and a downward trajectory in inflationary trends,” he emphasised.

Mbah called on investors from across Nigeria and beyond to follow the Haier example, stressing that Enugu was ready and open for business.
Speaking, the Vice President of Haier Group, Sun Yongle, said the factory would produce 200,000 units of various product lines annually, while also employing about 100 people for a start.
He added that Haier Group was working on a $30 million investment in the state, expanding to mining, agriculture, among others.

“Haier Group is the world’s largest manufacturer of appliances, with global revenue exceeding $60 billion in 2025. We own a portfolio of international brands including GE Appliances, Mabe, Candy, Sanyo Aqua, Hoover, and Fisher & Paykel.

“The Enugu Haier Factory has a designed production capacity of 200,000 units per year, focusing on ICT products, medical equipment, and new energy products. When fully completed, the factory will employ more than 100 local workers, including our sales and service teams, and we will have over 200 employees in total.

“But this factory marks only the first stage of our investment in Enugu State. We are also discussing cooperation in agriculture, mining, and transportation, including sesame, coal, and tricycles. We expect our total investment in Enugu State to exceed $30 million.

“Our goal is for our products to be not only Made in Enugu, but also Designed in Enugu, with management and technical teams mainly composed of local professionals,” Yongle stated.

He said Haier would establish a local Research and Development Centre and a training centre to provide free training and internship opportunities for students in Enugu State, commending Mbah for his support and leadership.

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, commended Governor Peter Mbah for making the “Made in Enugu” dream a reality, citing the speedy completion of the factory in 18 months to back his drive for skills-based education in Enugu State.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, restated the Federal Government’s support for innovation, industrialisation, and technical education as represented by the Enugu State Government and Haier through partnership.

“The President fully supports this initiative because it aligns with our Renewed Hope Agenda. This is adding to the President’s vision of taking Nigeria from where it is currently to a $1 trillion economy,” he stated.

Miss Precious Anih, a student of TVET College, GTC, Enugu, thanked Mbah for giving meaning to the dreams and future of Enugu children and youths.

“You have made us look into the future and have hope,” she stated.