The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Tag: enugu state

  • Reps Threaten Demolition Of Illegal Buildings Along Power Transmission Routes

    Reps Threaten Demolition Of Illegal Buildings Along Power Transmission Routes

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The House of Representatives has warned that churches, hotels, residential buildings and other structures erected illegally along government-designated power transmission corridors will be demolished to protect critical electricity projects.

    The Chairman of the House Committee on Public Assets, Kuye Ademorin, gave the warning during an inspection of the 132kV New Haven-Ninth Mile-Nsukka Double Circuit Transmission Line in Enugu State and the Egbu 330/132/33kV substation in Owerri, Imo State.

    According to a statement issued by the General Manager of Corporate Communication and External Relations at the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Nazo Agim, the lawmakers discovered several buildings constructed on land reserved for the transmission projects.

    Ademorin said the encroachment and vandalism of public infrastructure were threatening billions of naira invested by the Federal Government in expanding electricity supply.

    He expressed concern that individuals and institutions continued to build on designated government rights of way despite the importance of the projects to the country’s power sector.

    The lawmaker also questioned how buildings could receive approval from state authorities when they were located along corridors reserved for national infrastructure.

    He said the committee would work with relevant agencies to address the situation and ensure that public assets were protected.

    “It is not going to be business as usual. We are going to take drastic, appropriate steps to ensure that those structures are removed,” Ademorin warned.

    Other lawmakers who participated in the inspection included Mark Obetta, Lanre Okunlola, Sani Rigo and Canice Moore Nwachukwu.

    The committee chairman called for stronger collaboration between federal and state governments to resolve issues delaying the projects.

    He also urged the government to ensure that contractors received timely payments and that property owners whose land had been acquired for public infrastructure were adequately compensated.

    According to him, prompt compensation would reduce disputes and court cases capable of delaying project delivery.

    Ademorin commended the progress recorded at the Egbu substation, which the NDPHC said was approximately 85 per cent complete, with delivery expected around March 2027.

    The facility is expected to contribute about 250 megawatts to electricity supply in Imo State and improve power distribution to communities in the Orlu area.

    The substation project was initially awarded in 2006 but has received renewed attention under the leadership of NDPHC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jennifer Adighije.

    Ademorin said completing the facility would support industrial development, create employment opportunities and improve electricity supply across the South-East.

    He appealed to the governors of Enugu and Imo states to work with the NDPHC to remove obstacles affecting the projects, particularly illegal developments along transmission corridors.

    The lawmaker also advised members of the public to verify land ownership and government acquisition records before purchasing property, warning that investments in plots located within approved rights of way could be lost if the structures were removed.

    He maintained that protecting the transmission routes and completing the projects would contribute to industrialisation, job creation, improved security and development in the region.

  • Enugu Governor’s Aide, Lucky Chukwu, Dies

    Enugu Governor’s Aide, Lucky Chukwu, Dies

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    Hon. Chief Barrister Lucky Chukwu, Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, has died.

    His death was announced in October 2026 by the office of his younger brother, Senator Kelvin Chukwu, who represents Enugu East Senatorial District.

    Lucky Chukwu was an elder brother of the late Labour Party senatorial candidate, Oyibo Chukwu, and Senator Kelvin Chukwu, a former member of the Enugu State House of Assembly.

    He was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Governor Mbah in August 2026, having previously been involved in political activities in the state.

    Following his elder brother’s death, Senator Kelvin Chukwu suspended his political activities and engagements for one week to mourn the loss.

    The senator’s office announced the temporary suspension in a statement issued on October 11, 2026.

    The death is another loss for the Chukwu family, which had earlier lost Oyibo Chukwu, who was the Labour Party’s candidate for the Enugu East Senatorial District in the 2023 general election before he was assassinated during the campaign.

    Following Oyibo Chukwu’s death, Kelvin Chukwu emerged as the Labour Party’s replacement candidate and went on to win the senatorial election.

  • National Sports Festival: Mbah Inspects Facilities, Reassures of World-class, Memorable Games

    National Sports Festival: Mbah Inspects Facilities, Reassures of World-class, Memorable Games

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says his administration is committed to delivering a world-class and memorable 23rd National Sports Festival (NSF), tagged “Coal City Games.”

    Mbah also assured of the readiness of all the facilities ahead of the Games slated for 27th November to 11th December 2026.

    The Governor spoke at the weekend during a tour of Awgu Games Village, one of the venues slated for the NSF, for a firsthand assessment of the quality and speed of work at the site, stressing that the Awgu Games Village, which had long been abandoned, would emerge as a world-standard sports facility in less than two months.

    “Recall the commitment we made as a government that we are going to make the 23rd National Sports Festival one of the most memorable festivals in the history of the event.

    “So, the construction of a one-thousand-capacity-bed hostel is ongoing. We also have the construction of outdoor and indoor courts ongoing.

    “A standard FIFA pitch is also under construction. We equally have an eight-lane track, and these are all world-class.

    “I have to come because we have a very tight timeline and this project must be ready. It means that in less than two months, this place will no longer be a construction site. It will become a world-class Games Village. In less than two months, what you will have here is a proper venue that will be hosting contingents from across the country,” he said.

    Mbah, however, added that his administration was not just building for the NSF, noting that the massive development of sports facilities was in line with his campaign promise to make Enugu State the preferred destination for investment, business, tourism, and for living.

    He said the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium was already being upgraded into a FIFA-standard stadium, describing sports as not just recreation and a veritable tool for social cohesion, but also big business if well harnessed.

    “As you also know, the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium is receiving serious attention. We are upgrading it to a world-class standard.

    “These facilities will be ready. I have personally committed to the team from the National Sports Commission, who came on a monitoring visit, that we are not interested in shifting the date. The dates are already fixed for the 23rd National Sports Festival.

    “We are carrying out a comprehensive reconstruction and transformation of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. We are installing a new FIFA-standard football pitch and a new athletics track. We are rehabilitating and reinstalling the spectator seats, replacing damaged ones, and constructing a new roofing and canopy system to cover the entire spectator stands.

    “We are upgrading the VIP and VVIP stands, the players’ changing rooms and other associated facilities. We are upgrading the stadium gates and access-control system to an electronic system, installing two new LCD scoreboards, perimeter LED display boards and protective perimeter mesh fencing around the main bowl. The floodlighting system and other electrical and mechanical services are also being upgraded.

    “We are also cladding the external areas of the stadium to give the entire complex a new, modern architectural appearance and aesthetic ambience. There are extensive finishing works, external works, landscaping and improvements to the access and general environment of the stadium.

    “Beyond the main stadium bowl, we are building a new Olympic-size swimming pool with its associated facilities. We are transforming the Indoor Sports Hall and constructing and upgrading indoor and outdoor sporting facilities, including volleyball, basketball, squash and other sports, together with their pavilions and supporting facilities.

    “So, what we are doing is not simply renovating a football stadium. We are transforming the entire Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium complex into a modern, world-class multi-sport facility.

    “Therefore, for us, it is not just about the efficiency of organising the festival. We are equally interested in the Enugu experience of the athletes. We are interested in their accommodation, their logistics and their overall experience, and we are putting everything in place to make this festival a truly memorable event for the contingents, officials and everyone involved in the management of the Games.”

    In Mbah’s company during the tour were the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu; Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Osita Okoh; Commissioner for Human Development and Poverty Eradication, Prof. Benedett Okoli; Special Adviser to the Governor on Project Development and Implementation, Arch. Uche Nwatu; and Chairman of Awgu Local Government Council, Hon. Uchenna Okolo.

    The host Council Chairman, Okolo, commended Mbah for bringing life back to Awgu Games Village, noting that the transformation of the Games Village would speed up the
    development of the local government and the state in general.

  • Enugu LG Polls: Police, Govt Announce Movement Restrictions, Massive Security Deployment

    Enugu LG Polls: Police, Govt Announce Movement Restrictions, Massive Security Deployment

    The Enugu State Government and the Enugu State Police Command have announced movement restrictions and heightened security measures ahead of Saturday’s local government elections across the state.

    The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) is scheduled to conduct chairmanship and councillorship elections in the state’s 17 local government areas and 260 wards on September 26, 2026.

    In a statement on Thursday, September 24, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, ordered the massive deployment of police personnel, operational and intelligence assets across the 17 LGAs and 260 wards ahead of the elections.

    The Police Command said CP Giwa also ordered the restriction of human and vehicular movements across the state from 8am to 4pm on election day, except for persons on essential duties and duly accredited election officials.

    He further barred quasi-security outfits from participating in election security and directed all armed security personnel on VIP escort duties not to escort VIPs to polling units.

    The Commissioner assured voters and the public of adequate security before, during and after the elections, in collaboration with other security agencies.

    He urged eligible voters to turn out and exercise their franchise peacefully, while warning political parties, candidates and their supporters against electoral malpractices and acts capable of disrupting the conduct of the elections.

    According to him, violators would face the full weight of the law.

    The Police Command also urged residents to report suspicious persons and activities capable of undermining the peaceful conduct of the elections to the nearest police station or through 08032003702, 08086671202 or 08021709005.

    The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, on behalf of the Enugu State Command.

    State government announces 6am restriction

    In a separate Public Service Announcement signed by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, on Thursday, the state government announced a restriction of vehicular movement and other forms of transportation from 6am to 4pm on Saturday.

    The government said the restriction was intended to ensure the peaceful, orderly, secure and hitch-free conduct of the local government elections.

    It said there would be no vehicular movement on roads or other forms of transportation within the state during the period, except persons and vehicles performing essential election-related and emergency services.

    Those exempted include ENSIEC officials and accredited election personnel, security personnel deployed for election duties, accredited election observers, authorised media practitioners, health workers, ambulances, firefighters and other persons expressly authorised to perform essential election or emergency duties.

    The government urged residents, political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to comply with the directive and conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly before, during and after the elections.

    It also encouraged residents to exercise their civic responsibilities in accordance with guidelines issued by ENSIEC and other relevant authorities.

    “Security agencies have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of this directive and to maintain law and order throughout the elections,” the statement said.

    The state government acknowledged that the restriction could cause temporary inconvenience but appealed for the cooperation and understanding of residents as it works with ENSIEC and other relevant authorities to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.

    The government statement was signed by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, and dated September 24, 2026.

  • South East Commission Begins 200-Hectare Integrated Farm Project In Enugu

    South East Commission Begins 200-Hectare Integrated Farm Project In Enugu

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The South East Development Commission has commenced the development of a 200-hectare integrated agricultural project in Nomeh Unataeze, Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State.

    The project, being implemented under the Commission’s South East Agro-Development Programme, is expected to create more than 1,000 direct jobs when fully operational.

    The initiative is being developed in partnership with the Enugu State Government and is designed to combine agricultural production with mechanisation, processing, skills development and access to markets.

    The project will feature dairy farming, poultry, fisheries, greenhouse cultivation, fodder production, agro-processing, renewable energy and practical agricultural training.

    At the flag-off ceremony on Wednesday, the Enugu State Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai, who represented Governor Peter Mbah, said the project demonstrated the potential of collaboration between government institutions to address food security, employment and economic diversification.

    Ossai said the state government was committed to creating an enabling environment for productive investments and would support the initiative to ensure that it benefits farmers, young people and the wider economy.

    The project differs from conventional farms focused on a single agricultural commodity, as its various components are designed to operate as an interconnected production system.

    Plans for the facility include a 200-head dairy herd, poultry production capacity of up to 20,000 birds per cycle, fisheries infrastructure, fodder cultivation, silage production, processing facilities and agricultural demonstration centres.

    The integrated model is expected to enable the different sections of the farm to share infrastructure and reduce waste.

    Fodder cultivated on the farm will be used to support livestock, while animal manure and poultry waste could be utilised for soil improvement and energy production.

    Surplus fodder will also be processed into silage for use within the facility and supply to participating farmers.

    The project will provide shared facilities for feed production, water supply, farm machinery and processing, with the aim of connecting agricultural production to value addition and markets.

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SEDC, Mark Okoye, said the project was conceived to demonstrate how technology, mechanisation, skills and market access could transform agricultural production in the region.

    He said the success of the project would not be measured solely by activities within the 200-hectare facility but by its impact on surrounding communities and farmers.

    Okoye said the project would provide opportunities for young people to acquire practical agricultural skills, while farmers would benefit from access to inputs, technical assistance, mechanisation and markets.

    A training and out-grower scheme is also planned as part of the initiative.

    The training centre is expected to accommodate between 100 and 120 trainees at a time, with courses covering dairy production, fodder and silage production, poultry, fisheries and agricultural mechanisation.

    Under the initial out-grower programme, about 300 households located within a 10-kilometre radius of the facility are expected to participate.

    The number of participating households is expected to increase as production capacity expands.

    Farmers involved in the programme will have access to agricultural inputs, technical support and mechanisation services, while the project will provide opportunities for aggregation and market access.

    SEDC said fodder growers would receive planting materials, agronomic assistance, mechanisation and harvesting support, while dairy farmers would benefit from technical assistance, improved breeding services, feed and silage.

    Similar support arrangements are expected to be extended to poultry and fish farmers in surrounding communities.

    The Commission estimates that the project will support more than 1,000 direct jobs when it reaches full maturity, with additional employment expected through seasonal farming, processing and the wider network of participating farmers.

    Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, described the project as an example of the type of productive and regionally balanced development the government seeks to promote.

    Momoh said increasing food production required more than expanding cultivated land, stressing the importance of processing, market access, improved productivity and reducing post-harvest losses.

    He said the government’s objective was to develop an agricultural system capable of creating value and employment throughout the production chain.

    The Chairman of SEDC, Emeka Wogu, said partnerships with state governments, host communities, private investors and development organisations would remain central to the Commission’s regional development strategy.

    He said the Commission’s role was to create platforms that bring stakeholders together around projects capable of generating sustainable economic opportunities in the South East.

    The Nomeh project is expected to serve as a pilot for similar agricultural and agro-mechanisation projects across the five South East states.

    Okoye said the Commission would assess the lessons from the project before adapting and replicating the model in other locations.

    The five states covered by the SEDC are Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo.

    The President-General of Nomeh Unataeze, Chukwudi Anyianuka, welcomed the project, saying the community was ready to cooperate with the Commission, the Enugu State Government and other stakeholders.

    He said the initiative could create new economic opportunities for young people and farmers in the community.

    SEDC said the host community would remain an important stakeholder throughout the implementation and long-term operation of the project.

    The Commission added that beyond agricultural production, the facility would provide opportunities for skills acquisition, employment, farmer integration and the development of stronger agricultural value chains across the region.

  • Peter Eze Youth Connect 2026 Sets Enugu Abuzz

    Peter Eze Youth Connect 2026 Sets Enugu Abuzz

    …Promises Direct Access to Opportunities

    Enugu State is witnessing growing anticipation ahead of the maiden edition of Peter Eze Youth Connect 2026, with the much anticipated youth engagement programme now just one week away.

    Scheduled for Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu, the programme is being convened by the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission, Hon. Peter Ogbonna Eze, under the theme: “Beyond Quotas: Unlocking Opportunities for Enugu Youths Through the Federal Character Commission.”

    The event has emerged as one of the most quietly talked-about youth initiatives in Enugu and beyond, with considerable interest building among young people who see it as an opportunity to gain direct access to information capable of changing the trajectory of their careers and livelihoods.

    Peter Eze, one of the most prominent, respected and influential young men Enugu State has produced, has positioned the initiative as a practical response to a longstanding challenge confronting young people; not necessarily the absence of opportunities, but the difficulty of finding, understanding and accessing them.

    For years, many Enugu youths have yearned for a platform of this nature: one that brings credible information about jobs, scholarships, grants, fellowships, internships, government programmes, private-sector opportunities, digital opportunities, entrepreneurship, career development and leadership directly to them.

    According to observers, the significance of Peter Eze Youth Connect lies in its departure from the conventional youth empowerment model, where young people are often gathered primarily to listen to speeches. Instead, the programme is designed around information, access, practical guidance and connection to opportunities.

    Speaking about the initiative, Eze said the programme was conceived to help young people move from simply hearing that opportunities exist to understanding exactly how to pursue them.

    “Our objective is to help young people understand where legitimate opportunities exist, how to identify them, how to apply, what is required, and how to position themselves for success,” Eze said.

    He explained that thousands of young Nigerians possess the qualifications, talent and determination to succeed but are often disadvantaged by the absence of timely and accurate information.

    He said Peter Eze Youth Connect was therefore created to bridge that information gap and provide a platform where young people can learn, connect and position themselves for opportunities at both national and international levels.

    The initiative is expected to attract young people from across the 17 Local Government Areas of Enugu State, including graduates, entrepreneurs, students, job seekers, professionals and young people seeking opportunities for career and personal development.

    Eze urged Enugu youths to make the most of the programme, stressing that access to the right information, combined with preparation and determination, can significantly improve their chances of success.

    He further challenged young people to stop waiting passively for opportunities and instead develop the capacity to identify, pursue and position themselves for available opportunities.

    With just seven days to go, the growing excitement surrounding the event suggests that Peter Eze Youth Connect 2026 could mark the beginning of a new conversation around youth development in Enugu State, one that shifts the focus from promises to access, from information to action, and from waiting for opportunities to actively pursuing them.

  • Nkanu West Council Chairman Receives NDE Officials, Leads Enrollment Drive For Vocational, Entrepreneurial Skills Acquisition

    Nkanu West Council Chairman Receives NDE Officials, Leads Enrollment Drive For Vocational, Entrepreneurial Skills Acquisition

    The Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Hon. John Ogbodo, has called on the people of Nkanu West to enroll as beneficiaries in the vocational and entrepreneurial skills program of the National Directorate of Employment.

    Ogbodo made the call when he received the officials of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), an agency of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, led by the Enugu State Coordinator, Mr. Oluka Godwin, during a courtesy visit to him at the council headquarters.

    Speaking during the courtesy visit, the State Coordinator, Oluka Godwin, stated that the purpose of the visit was to formally inform the Executive Chairman of the ongoing registration exercise for individuals interested in acquiring vocational and entrepreneurial skills under the agency’s training programmes.

    Oluka explained that the registration was targeted at locals within the Nkanu East and Nkanu West Federal Constituency who were willing to be trained in various skill areas as part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce unemployment and promote self-reliance among citizens.

    He stated that in the past, similar interventions had been carried out and the participants resettled after the training.

    Noting that the challenge of unemployment could only be solved through a partnership among the Federal, State and Local governments, Oluka sought the support and participation of the local government to ensure its success.

    Responding, the Council Chairman welcomed the NDE team and assured them of the council’s support in ensuring a smooth and successful registration and training process.

    He also commended the initiative as a step in the right direction toward youth empowerment and economic development in the local government, noting that it was in line with the target of the Dr. Peter Mbah led administration of Enugu State, to achieve a zero poverty headcount, a target he stressed that his local government administration had already keyed into.

    Ogbodo also recalled other human capacity interventions which had been undertaken by his administration since he assumed office, reminding that the latest was a capacity hands-on training involving a collaboration with Potters Wheel and the Enugu State Ministry of Youths and Sports Development.

    Those present during the visit were the Local Government Secretary, Prince Barr. Onochie Igwesi and an Aide to Rt. Hon. Nnolim Nnaji (Member Representing Nkanu East and West Federal Constituency), Mike Udo.

    The registration exercise is scheduled as follows:

    DAY 1:Thursday, August 7, 2025

    Wards: Akegbe Ugwu 1, Akegbe Ugwu 2, Agbani, Akpugo 2, Amurri, Umueze and Ozalla.

    DAY 2: Friday, August 8, 2025

    Wards: Obuoffia, Akpugo 1, Akpugo 3, Akpugo 4, Akpugo 5, Amodu and Obe.

    Venue: Nkanu West Local Government Headquarters

    Time: 9:00 AM Daily

     

  • JUST-IN: Gov. Mbah Grants Clemency to 11 Prisons Inmates

    JUST-IN: Gov. Mbah Grants Clemency to 11 Prisons Inmates

    …Inaugurates Social Homes Board 

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has inaugurated the Management Board for the Protection of State-owned Social Homes, reaffirming his government’s commitment to caring for the vulnerable in the state.

    The Board, which has the First Lady of the state, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, as the Chairman, and Prof. Christian Anieke, a Reverend Father, as the co-Chairman, equally has Rev. Canon Chibuike Okolo as the Vice Chairman, while the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih represents the Ministry.

    Other members of the Board are Rev. Sr. Mary Gloria Iloka, Rev. Sr. Veritas Onyemelukwe, Pastor Elias Anyigbo, Mrs. Anna Igbokwe, and Barr. Chidinma Egeonu, while Barr. Uzoama Okeji is the Executive Secretary of the Board.

    Inaugurating the Board at the Government House, Enugu, Governor Mbah said, “Recall that even when we expressed a huge growth projection, we immediately added that we were going to also eradicate poverty, which means that we are always interested in our common humanity. We know that as a people, we are only as good as our weakest link.

    “So, we cannot leave the vulnerable in our society out or behind. What we have pledged is an inclusive prosperity, inclusive economic growth and that growth and prosperity should be measured on how we treat those very vulnerable ones in our society. That is why I am so excited that we have the sort of resources, a pool of people with great reputation, experience, and work ethics to serve on this Board.”

    The governor assured that the government would make available to them all that is needed to turn the state’s social protection homes around.

    “We are committed to making sure that we provide you with all the tools and funds you require to ensure that our people in these social homes live in comfort and dignity,” emphasised.

    Also speaking, the wife of the governor, enjoined members of the new Board to hit the ground running, ensuring transparency in the discharge of the Board’s responsibilities.

    “I urge you all to be diligent, fair and transparent in discharging your duties. Discharge those duties in compliance with the law and take good care of our children,” she stated.

    Meanwhile, Governor Mbah has also granted clemency to eleven inmates of Correctional Centres in Enugu State, a step towards decongesting the correctional facilities and giving the beneficiaries another opportunity to live a better life as members of the society.

    The beneficiaries of the clemency as conveyed to the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Victor Udeh, are Ugochukwu Oma, Onah Nnamdi, Chiadikobi Onu, Emmanuel Sambo, Emeka Nyia, and Ngene Oluebube.

    Others are Francis Chinecherem, Eze Chigozie, Anthony Tombari, Francis Chibuzor, and Uzoma Nnaoche.

    The Governor’s decision was in exercise of his Prerogative of Mercy powers under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and in consultation with the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

    The decision was also in concordance with reports of proven reform in character, ability to reintegrate with the society having possessed or learnt some productive skills, and following recommendations by the Correctional Services and the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

    The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy also draws membership from the Nigerian Correctional Service, Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation (CAPIO), and the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), among other reputable justice sector institutions.

  • Mbah Appoints New Leadership for Enugu Forest Guard

    Mbah Appoints New Leadership for Enugu Forest Guard

    The Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has approved the appointment of Colonel Dan Didiugwu (rtd) as the Chairman of the Enugu State Forest Guard, and DCP Olamitisoji Akinbamilayo, PhD (rtd) as the Commander of the Enugu State Forest Guard.

    According to a government issued statement signed by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, the appointment of the Chairman of the Forest Guard Board, which is subject to confirmation by the Enugu State House of Assembly, and that of the Commander of the Forest Guard, which takes effect immediately, are part of the State Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and professionalize forest and environmental security operations across Enugu State, in alignment with its commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and natural resources.

    The statement revealed that the office of Commander of the Forest Guard supersedes the previously existing position of State Coordinator, which is now abolished.

    The statement noted that the Smstate government expressed confidence in the capacity and experience of both Colonel Didiugwu and DCP Akinbamilayo to reposition the Forest Guard into a highly responsive and efficient outfit.

  • Gov Ugwuanyi restates his support for security agencies in the State.

    Gov Ugwuanyi restates his support for security agencies in the State.

     

    Enugu State Government yesterday, reiterated that the administration will continue to support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the state to ensure that they effectively discharge their duties.

    Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi gave the assurance during the 82 Division Nigerian Army West African Social Activities, WASA 2021, held yesterday at the 82 Division Garrison Parade Ground, Abakpa Cantonment, Enugu.

    The governor expressed delight at noting that the annual event was a platform for officers, soldiers, their families, friends, and the host community to gather in a joyous and relaxed mood to appreciate God for the successful completion of training activities and operations for the past year while heralding the beginning of the New Year.

    Ugwuanyi said the occasion offered him the opportunity to celebrate the Nigerian soldiers for their gallantry in battling insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the past year.

    “The events of the past year put your courage and patriotism to test but your successes were cheering and reassuring to Nigerians that we have a dependable, disciplined, and committed Army,” the governor said.

    Acknowledging with a deep sense of patriotism, the anxiety and emotional challenges the soldiers’ families and friends have to contend with as the officers and soldiers strive for the peace and unity of Nigeria, Governor Ugwuanyi thanked them for “all your unsung sacrifices for our great nation, Nigeria.”

    The governor, who pointed out that the state government has a long tradition of mutual understanding and cooperation with the 82 Division Nigerian Army, paid respect to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General F. Yahaya, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army, Major General T.A. Lagbaja and all the officers and men of the Division for their continued support to his administration especially in the areas of security, civil-military cooperation, and peace advocacy.

     

    (Vanguard)

  • Enugu State Government Intensify Efforts to Curb Malnutrition 

    Enugu State Government Intensify Efforts to Curb Malnutrition

    ...State ranks amongst the 15 states in Nigeria that recorded improvements in more than one commitment area on nutrition

    In a State Policy Dialogue and Engagement of State Executives and Legislative Councils on Investment in Nutrition meeting held at BON Sunshine Hotel, Enugu, which was hosted by the Enugu State Ministry of Budget and Planning, in collaboration with United Nations Children’s Fund, the Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Dr. Ugwunta, David Okelue disclosed that the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has done so much and is committed to doing many more to promote nutrition in the state.

    He noted that the State government has seen to the setting up and inauguration of the Enugu State Committee on Food and Nutrition made up of MDAs involved in Nutrition and Food Systems which is under the State Ministry of Budget and Planning; adopted the National Food and Nutrition Policy as well as the domestication of the Multi-Sectoral Strategic Plan of Action for Food and Nutrition.

    Dr. Ugwunta added that the State government still in the bid to curb all forms of issues related to malnutrition in the state, hosted the South-East regional dialogue of the United Nations Food Systems Summit in April 2021; sees to the participation of Enugu State in the ongoing UNICEF Progressive Action on Resilient Systems for Nutrition through Innovation and Partnership (PARSNIP); as well as funded the sensitization of the public on the health benefits of exclusive breast feeding through the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency in the commemoration of the World Breastfeeding Week.

     

    Further in his address, Dr. Ugwunta noted the doggedness and commitment in prioritizing nutrition in the State by Enugu State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is already been noticed as Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) Nutrition Scorecard ranked Enugu State amongst the 15 states that recorded improvements in more than one commitment areas on Nutrition in the 2nd quarter (April-June) 2021. In the latest NGF Nutrition Scorcard, Dr Chinekwu Oreh, Health Specialist, NGF Secretariat noted “A total of 15 states (Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Kano, Kwara, Niger, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, and Rivers) recorded improvements in at least one indicator, with four states (Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Kano, and Niger) recording improvements in more than one commitment area”.

    Also speaking at the event themed, “Prioritizing Investment in Maternal, Child and Adolescent Nutrition”, the UNICEF Planning and Monitoring Specialist, Enugu, Mrs Zubbie-Okolo noted that the essence of the meeting was to have the Executive and Legislative arms of the State government come together to ensure that nutrition is placed on the agenda.

    She also stated that the meeting was in tandem with the Sustainable Development Goals agenda to end all forms of malnutrition by 2030 as Nigeria is one of the nations in the world with a high record of ravaging malnutrition.

    Mrs Okolo noted that UNICEF in a bid to boost nutrition in the state recently rolled out Micro Nutrients powder to three Senatorial Zones (Udenu, Nkanu West and Udi) in Enugu state.

    In her keynote speech, UNICEF Nutrition Specialist, Lady Chizoba Steve-Edemba disclosed that nutrition investment increases early school completion by one year; raise adult wages by 5-50%; brings about 33% escape from poverty in children who escaped stunting; improve maternal and child health of the country thus a significant boost in the annual GDP by 11%.

    During a panel discussion at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Gender Affairs and Social Development in Enugu State, Princess Peace Nnaji reiterated that the wife of the Executive Governor, Her Excellency, Mrs. Monica Ugwuanyi has intensified the fight against malnutrition through her support to Maternal, Newborn And Child Health Week (MNCHW) with nutrition commodities as well as the sensitization/promotion of exclusive breastfeeding as she consistently holds awareness programme for women in the State regarding this issue on a monthly basis at Okpara Square, Enugu.

    Speaking on the State Legislative strategic plan to implement investment in nutrition in the state, Hon. Sam Ngene, the House Committee Chairman on Health noted that the House will make a collaborative effort to provide not just an enabling environment for nutrition investment to thrive but will make sure that adequate fund is appropriated to bring about desired result.

    In a wrap up, the Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Dr. Ugwunta disclosed that the State Government plans to sustain all the commendable efforts being made to improve nutrition in the State; especially by development of proper costed work plan and release of fund for the delivery of food and Nutrition Programmes in the year 2022 through participating MDAs, adding that the State Government also commits to providing for the PARSNIP Match-funding in the 2022 Budget and facilitate the approval and release of fund to match fund the UNICEF-PARSNIP for the procurement of RUTF for continuous treatment of SAM across the State.

    Other dignitaries present at the engagement were Honourable Commissioners for Health, Dr. Obi Ikechukwu Emmanuel, and Education, Prof. Uche Eze, Permanent Secretaries: Finance; Dr. Ben Ezenwa, Information; Chris Mba, Health; Dr. Ifeanyi Agujiobi, SSG’s Office; Barr. May Anayo Enechukwu, Executive Secretary, Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. George Ugwu and a host of others.

    BY:
    CHUKWUKA, IFUNANYA JUDITH
    PRO/ INFORMATION OFFICER
    MINISTRY OF BUDGET AND PLANNING

  • INTERNATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS’ DAY (IFFD)

    INTERNATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS’ DAY (IFFD)

     

    Enugu State Fire fighters need your support to succeed. 

     

    By: Okwudiri Daniel Ohaa

    The Chief Fire Officer Enugu State Fire Service

     

     

    This years Theme: “Developing Safer and Secure Working Conditions for Firefighters”

     

    The history of organized firefighting began in ancient Rome while under the rule of Augustus. Prior to that, Ctesibius, a Greek citizen of Alexandria, developed the first fire pump in the third century BC, which was later improved upon in a design by Hero of Alexandria in the first century BC.

     

    While Nigerian Fire Service began in 1901, it was created by the British Government. During those years it wasn’t the Nigerian Fire service as we know it today. It was just a unit that was a part of the police department in Lagos. It offered help solving fire-related problems that happened across nearby-Lagos territories.

     

    Because of this, the police office was often called Lagos Police Fire Brigade. It was a 2-in-1 department that had to fight both crime and fire until 1963 when they were separated.

     

    Enugu State Fire Service was created in 1991 after the creation of Enugu State. Firefighters dedicate their lives to the protection of life and property.

    Sometimes that dedication is in the form of countless hours volunteered over many years, in others, it is many selfless years working in the industry. In all cases, it risks the ultimate sacrifice of a firefighter’s life.

     

    On December 2, 1998, a tragic event shook the Linton Community, Australia and the world. Firefighters in Linton, Australia, a populated region in Victoria, were fighting a large bush fire and called for mutual aid. This urgent mutual aid call brought the Geelong West Fire Brigade to the scene, not knowing the despair and tragedy that was in store. Garry Vredeveldt, Chris Evans, Stuart Davidson, Jason Thomas, and Matthew Armstrong all loaded into company’s truck. They were part of a strike team and were being sent to help extinguish the flames. As the five headed into the hot zone, the wind suddenly switched direction, engulfing the truck in flames and killing all five members. This unfortunate incident is what inspired JJ Edmondson to bring about an international holiday, called International Firefighters’ Day, to support the lives lost and dedicated fire fighters who risk their lives every day to save life and property

     

    Although International Firefighters’ Day originated from the deaths of five wild land fire fighters, they are not the only aspect of the service recognized. On IFFD, every person in the emergency service career gets recognized; Hazardous Materials Specialists, Fire Prevention Specialists, paid firefighters, volunteer fire fighters, wild land fire fighters, heavy equipment operators/mechanics, Emergency Medical Technicians, and many more. Some of these jobs may seem insignificant; however, without all sectors of the emergency department services working together one would not hold up without the other; therefore, resulting in International Firefighters’ Day to be a time to celebrate everyone who serves in the emergency services.

     

    International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD) is a time where the world’s community can recognise and honour the sacrifices that firefighters make to ensure that their communities and environment are as safe as possible. It is also a day in which current and past firefighters can be thanked for their contributions.

     

    International Firefighters’ Day is an annual event observed every 4th of May. On this date, people are invited to remember the past firefighters who have died while serving their community or dedicated their lives to protecting the safety of us all. At the same time, people can show support and appreciation to the firefighters world wide for their efforts towards saving lives and property.

    By proudly wearing and displaying blue and red ribbons pinned together or by participating in a memorial or recognition event, people can show their gratitude to firefighters everywhere.

     

    The IFFD ribbons are linked to colours symbolic of the main elements firefighters work with – red for fire and blue for water. These colours also are internationally recognised as representing emergency service.

     

    A special time to stop and reflect on the sacrifices made by firefighters is held on the first Sunday in May at noon local time each year when fire sirens sound for 30 seconds followed by a minute’s silence in memory of, and respect for, all firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty or passed on before us. This is known as the “Sound Off.“

     

    Enugu State Firefighters need your support to succeed, we need your accurate and timely information to trace and respond to Rescue operations or fire outbreaks promptly. Always give right of way to all firefighting trucks and vehicles attending to rescue or fire related emergencies. Install suitable and functional fire extinguishers in your homes and offices. You can encourage firefighters by calling to thank them for a job well done or by writing appreciation letter.

     

    Help firefighters to make our environment safe and God bless you as you celebrate firefighters all over the world.