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Tag: Peter Mbah

Onochie Igwesi Makes Enugu APC Campaign Council List

The Secretary to Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, Barr. Onochie Jon-Igwesi, has been appointed a member of the Enugu State All Progressives Congress Campaign Council.

Jon-Igwesi who was also sworn in for a second term as Secretary to Nkanu West on October 21, 2026, was appointed the state Deputy Director of the Mainstream Media (Print) in the campaign council.

The 51-Directorate campaign council which is chaired by the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, and was inaugurated by him on October 27, 2026, was charged to pursue a resounding victory for the party in all the 2027 elections.

Mbah urged party faithful to campaign hard on the administration’s achievements and be unapologetically APC in doing so, saying the opposition had nothing but propaganda to offer.

Accepting his appointment, Jon-Igwesi expressed gratitude to Mbah for the opportunity to serve the party and the state. He noted that the confidence reposed in him ought to be justified and he expressed readiness to campaign vigorously for the APC, remarking “Mbah’s administrative acumen and governance scorecard makes the job less difficult”.

Onochie Jon-Igwesi is a dedicated professional with a diverse portfolio spanning public service, entrepreneurship, media proprietorship, community engagement, education administration, and the legal profession. In 2020, he embarked on media entrepreneurship founding Pacesetter Frontier Magazine.

He holds degrees in Microbiology and Law; certificates in Public Leadership and Policy; International Criminal Law, Journalism, Business Consultancy and Mediation. He is a school administrator, Rotary International member, and Paul Harris Fellow, driving discussions on peace, governance, and development through the Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards, an initiative of his Magazine.

Jon-Igwesi is expected to bring his expertise in the print media industry to bear to drive the re-election of all candidates of the All Progressives Congress in the state.

October 28, 2026
[BREAKING] 2027: Mbah Leads the Charge as Enugu APC Unveils 51-Directorate Campaign Council (See Full List)

…Sen. Nnamani, Nwobodo, Dr. Nnamani, Chime, Ugwuanyi, Prof. Nnaji, Arthur Eze, Frank Nweke, Madueke, others get advisory roles

…Udeh, Nwoye, Igwesi, Utazi, Egumgbe, Ben Collins Ndu, Onyia, others head 51 Directorates

…Council to be inaugurated on Tuesday

The Enugu State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Monday, unveiled the party’s Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Campaign Council, comprising 51 Directorates, is chaired by the Governor of the state, Dr. Peter Mbah, while the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; Deputy National Chairman, APC (South); Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; and the Chairman of the party in the state, Dr. Martin Chukwunweike, are Vice Chairmen.

The list signed by Chukwunweike and the Secretary of Enugu APC, Hon. Chukwudi Nnadozie, also has Chief Charlie Mbah as the Director-General of the Campaign Organisation and Dr. Eric Oluedo as the Secretary-General.

Deacon Okey Ogbodo, Dr. Dan Shere, and Hon. S.K.E. Udeh-Okoye are Deputy Campaign DGs for Enugu East Senatorial District, Enugu North Senatorial District, and Enugu West Senatorial District, respectively.

Barr. Steve Oruruo is the Campaign Spokesperson and Director of the Public Communication Committee, with Dr. Austin Okolie as co-spokesperson and Dr. Malachy Agbo as Secretary.

Mazi Uche Anichukwu and Dan Nwomeh, both drawn from the Governor’s media team, head the Directorate of New Media and Strategic Communication and the Directorate of Mainstream Media, respectively. Dr. Collins Ogbu is the Secretary of the former, while Dr. Reuben Onyishi is the Secretary of the latter.

Barr. Victor Udeh leads the Administration Directorate, while Dr. Ben Nwoye and Arc. Uche Nwatu are the Director and Co-Director of the Fundraising Committee, respectively.

Former Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla (Rtd.), chairs the Security Directorate, while former Inspector General of Police, Ogbono Onovo (Rtd.), is the Secretary.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology is in charge of the Directorate of Government Appointees Coordination (Federal and State), with Prof. Chidiebere Onyia as Secretary, while former Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Eugene Odoh, heads Inter-Party Affairs.

Senator Osita Ngwu, Senator Ikeje Asogwa, and Senator Kelvin Chukwu are Coordinators of the Campaign Council in Enugu West, Enugu North, and Enugu East, respectively.

Former National Assembly member and Coordinator of the State Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Rt. Hon. USA Igwesi directs the Support Groups Directorate while Hon. Frank Anioma serves as co-director.

Meanwhile, in their co-signed statement, Chukwunweike and Nnadozie said the size of the Campaign Council was a reflection of “the conviction that every community, ward, local government area, professional group, support organisation, youth body, women’s group, elder, party faithful and person of goodwill must be seen, heard and meaningfully engaged.”

“Appointment into the campaign structure is therefore not merely an honour; it is a call to duty, accountability and measurable contribution,” they stated.

The Council will be inaugurated at the International Conference Centre, Enugu on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

All members of the Campaign Council are to be seated before 3pm.

Click to download the full list.

October 27, 2026
2027: Minister Udeh to Unveil ‘ATM’ Political Group for Tinubu, Mbah’s Re-election

…Presents 17 Buses For ‘ATM’ Political Group

…Says “I’m confident of President Tinubu and Governor Mbah’s Victory”

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, is set to unveil his grassroots mobilisation and political support group, “As Tinubu and Mbah Move (ATM)”.

This is also as the Minister has expressed confidence in the victory of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah in 2027.

Udeh, who convened a strategy meeting on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at the group’s secretariat, ahead of the planned unveiling of ‘ATM’, also presented 17 branded buses to support grassroots mobilisation by the movement in preparedness for the forthcoming elections.

Announcing the initiative, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria urged members to work towards securing victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly in the presidential and governorship elections.

He said the buses were provided to ease the mobilisation process and strengthen the movement’s presence across communities, wards and polling units.

Expressing confidence in the victory of Tinubu and Mbah, he stressed that the movement must go beyond the usual boisterousness of political groups and focus on practical activities that would translate into electoral success.

“I want this group to be different so that it will not end in noise-making. The aim is to make APC win from top to bottom, especially the President and the Governor,” he said.

Udeh urged members to take responsibility for delivering their respective polling units and wards, noting that grassroots engagement remained central to political success.

“Politics is local. Everybody should work to ensure that APC wins in their respective wards and polling units,” he said.

He explained that ATM was established to provide a platform through which members could connect with political leaders and contribute to the party’s activities.

According to him, active participation in grassroots mobilisation could also create opportunities for members to engage with government officials and seek assistance on issues affecting their communities.

Udeh, who described himself as not being a career politician, said he valued integrity and fulfilling commitments in his dealings with people.

He also pledged to spend more time in the South-East during the campaign period to coordinate the movement’s activities.

Earlier, the ATM Coordinator, Igboke Onyebuchi, said the meeting was organised to establish and ratify the movement’s structures ahead of the planned commencement of local government mobilisation in November.

He described ATM as a political movement rather than an ordinary group, explaining that some of its membership was by people who wanted to support Governor Peter Mbah and acknowledge his role in Udeh’s ministerial appointment.

“We are doing this to support the governor for giving such a smart young person the opportunity to be a minister. This has not happened in recent times,” Onyebuchi said.

He said the movement comprised community mobilisers, union leaders and people from the civic space, many of whom were not career politicians but were willing to contribute to the political process.

The coordinator said ATM planned to adopt an innovative, community-based approach to mobilisation, with a focus on reaching rural residents and strengthening the APC’s existing grassroots structures, adding that a community map to guide its engagement with residents had been developed.

Onyebuchi expressed appreciation to Udeh for providing the platform for members to participate in the political process, saying the movement hoped to encourage greater opportunities for young people with strong professional and intellectual backgrounds.

October 23, 2026
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.

October 12, 2026
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.

October 5, 2026
In Major Milestone, Mbah Flags Off Enugu Air Maiden Int’l Flight to Douala, Cameroon

… Enugu Air CEO: Enugu becoming a gateway

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has flagged off the first-ever international service by Enugu Air, describing it as a major milestone in his administration’s vision to grow Enugu State into a major aviation hub and make it the preferred destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.

Speaking at a brief ceremony at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, on Wednesday, Mbah, who heaped commendations on the leadership of the state-owned airline for the fast growth of Enugu Air, said it was not an isolated story, but a part of connecting the dots as his administration strives to grow Enugu State into a $30 billion economy.

“Months ago, right here, we watched Enugu take to the skies. In just barely six months after a rigorous regulatory process, Enugu Air obtained her Air Operator’s License. This is not a mean feat.

“Today, 14 months after, we can see that dream flying beyond our expectations, as Enugu Air is one of the fastest-growing airlines in Nigeria, without a doubt.

“But we did not conceive of Enugu Air as a bragging right or because of the clamour, or to gain some political acclaim. Enugu Air is part of the masterplan to make Enugu State the premier destination for investment, living, business and tourism. For us, Enugu Air is part of connecting the dots,” he stated.

Mbah described Enugu Air as a campaign promise kept, saying the Enugu–Douala service was the beginning of many more international flight operations to many parts of the world.

“What you are seeing here today is performance above promises. So, we ask you to judge us by the things we have promised and have delivered to you.

“Besides, today is Douala, but I am hoping tomorrow, we are not only going to be talking about the continent of Africa, we will be talking about Enugu to the world,” he added.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu “for consistently demonstrating his commitment to aviation infrastructure and for the support he is also giving to the states to enable us to create businesses like Enugu Air,” commending also the Minister of Aviation and Aerodrome Development, Festus Keyama, SAN; and the agencies under him such as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) supporting Enugu Air’s growth and making Nigeria a standard bearer in the African aviation industry.

Speaking, Enugu Air CEO, Capt. Tolu Ita, said Enugu Air was not merely launching a flight, stressing, “we are launching a new chapter.”

“This is a chapter in which Enugu is no longer simply where a journey begins or ends. Enugu is becoming a gateway.

“Today, much bigger than an aircraft will be moving across our skies. Opportunity will be moving. Business will be moving. People will be moving. Ideas will be moving. And Enugu will be moving with them. This is what makes today so significant.

“Enugu Air was never built with the vision to simply put aircraft in the sky. The vision was to build an airline that connects people, connects markets and connects possibilities.

“We began by strengthening our domestic network — connecting Enugu with Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Owerri, Asaba, Benin City and Warri.

“Today, we take our first major step beyond Nigeria. Enugu to Douala. Nigeria to Cameroon. The Southeast to Central Africa. And this is only the beginning.

“Our ambition is to continue building a stronger regional network across Africa, while progressively opening the door to wider international markets,” she said.

In growing Enugu Air, Ita reaffirmed the airline’s responsibility and commitment to authorities, passengers, and all stakeholders, upholding the highest operational and ethical standards.

In her goodwill message, the Managing Director/CEO of the FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Onabanjo-Kuku, said Enugu Air’s inaugural international flight was “a strong statement of Nigeria’s growing capacity to connect7 people and businesses across West and Central Africa.”

Represented by Mrs. Onyeka Udenze, the7 FAAN DG said, “Akanu Ibiam International Airport now takes a firm step as a regional hub.”

While congratulating Enugu Air for the fast growth in 14 months, she assured that FAAN remained committed to providing the infrastructure, safety standards and support that make such services possible.

The DG of NCAA, represented by the Director of Air Transport Regulations, FAAN, Mrs. Olayinka Babaoye-Iruobe, said connecting Enugu to Douala directly represented would create opportunities for increased trade, investment, tourism, and movement of people, while strengthening social and economic ties between Nigeria and Cameroon.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, said the new service to Douala marked a monumental leap forward in the state’s trade, investment, and economic integration strategy.

“For decades, the vibrant traders, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs of Enugu and the broader region have navigated complex transit routes to access Central African markets.

“Today, that barrier is dismantled. This direct link directly advances our goal of transforming Enugu State into a premier regional hub for commerce and industrial development. We are now effectively bridging markets, shortening supply chains, and unlocking unprecedented opportunities for cross-border commerce across Central and West Africa,” he said.

The Maiden flight, which departed Akanu Ibiam International Airport in the early hours of the afternoon, touched down safely at the Douala International Airport where it was well received by the Cameroonian authorities in a brief ceremony before it returned to Enugu on the history trip.

September 23, 2026
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.

September 23, 2026
Enugu LG Polls: Obuoffia, Akpugo 2 Endorse Ogbodo, APC Candidates

…John Ogbodo is one of the best performing Chairmen – Gov. Mbah

Chetanne Chinelo, Enugu

The All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the September 26 Enugu State local government elections received further endorsements in Nkanu West Local Government Area as stakeholders in Obuoffia and Akpugo Ward 2 declared support for Executive Chairman and chairmanship candidate, Hon. John Chukwuma Ogbodo, and other party candidates.

The endorsements were made during the “Beyond Expectations” campaign train’s engagements in the communities, culminating in a grand finale at Akpugo Ward 2.

Obuoffia

In Obuoffia, stakeholders pledged the ward’s support for all APC candidates, with the Chairman of the Nkanu West Traditional Rulers Council and Obuoffia Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Eze Barr. Igwesi Obi Igwesi, describing the choice of Governor Peter Mbah as one without a credible alternative.

Igwesi said Obuoffia remained willing to demonstrate its solidarity with the governor, while also urging residents to support the APC candidates in the local government election.

A former member of the House of Representatives and Enugu State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu, Rt. Hon. USA Igwesi, also expressed support for the APC candidates.

He said Mbah would be re-elected in 2027 and urged the people to vote for President Tinubu as well.

Another stakeholder, Owelle Steve Avah, called on Ogbodo to convey the gratitude of Obuoffia residents to Governor Mbah over what he described as the governor’s numerous infrastructural interventions in the ward.

Avah said the September 26 election would provide an opportunity for the people to reciprocate the support, saying:

“Chairman, the coming election for Local Government is our own way to pay you back.

“We have nothing much to say other than to ask God to help you, Obuoffia will help you, Nkanu will help you, Nigeria will help you”.

The State Deputy Youth Leader of the APC, Ogonna Aneke, also declared support for Mbah and the party’s candidates, citing what he described as extensive development across Enugu State.

Similarly, the Secretary of Nkanu West LGA, Onochie Jon-Igwesi, said past political developments had shown that Mbah had prevailed in situations where he was underestimated.

Tracing the governor’s political journey from his former party, Jon-Igwesi expressed confidence that Mbah would again overcome his critics and secure a second term in 2027.

Akpugo Ward 2 rally

At the grand finale of the campaign in Akpugo Ward 2, Ogbodo, who is the incumbent Executive Chairman of Nkanu West LGA and APC chairmanship candidate, appealed to the people to support the governor and the party’s candidates in the election.

Ogbodo said Akpugo Ward 2 comprises Ndiagu Obuno and Obununo communities and noted that no previous chairman of Nkanu West had come from the area before Mbah supported his emergence.

“Since the start of politics, no Chairman of Nkanu West LGA has ever come from here until His Excellency graciously found me worthy, and with the support of the people, I became council chairman,” he said.

He thanked the people for what he described as their recognition of his administration’s work across Nkanu West and appealed to them to extend their gratitude to Mbah.

Ogbodo also highlighted infrastructure and education projects in the area, including the road linking Amodu, Akpugo, Akpawfu and Amagunze.

According to him, the road had previously posed difficulties for residents, particularly during burial ceremonies, when ambulances reportedly stopped at a bridge and corpses were carried by hand to burial venues because of the condition of the road.

He said the situation had changed following the ongoing road construction.

Ogbodo further said all the Smart Schools in Nkanu West had been onboarded and equipped with modern facilities, including computers, interactive boards, boreholes and lighting.

“So, we are eagerly waiting for January and February to reciprocate the hard work of His Excellency and all the APC candidates,” he said.

Representing Governor Mbah at the rally, the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, urged residents to vote for Ogbodo and his running mate on September 26.

“We have only one person to vote for on September 26, John Ogbodo and his deputy,” Onyia said.

He said he was at the rally to represent the governor and demonstrate the state government’s support for Ogbodo, whom he described as “one of the most performing mayor in Enugu State today.”

“We fully endorse Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for 2027 because he has done a lot of work and we’re sure that he will do more. Anyone that wants to be Governor of Enugu State will have to wait after his tenure,” he said.

The SSG further told the gathering that aspirants interested in the governorship from Nkanu West would have to wait, saying, “I know that there are people vying for Governorship in Nkanu West but there is no vacancy there.”

Several speakers in Obuoffia and Akpugo highlighted infrastructure and education projects in the area as the reasons for their support.

The campaign ended with APC stakeholders and supporters reaffirming their support for Ogbodo and other party candidates ahead of the September 26 local government election.

September 20, 2026
2027: Awkunanaw Traditional Rulers Endorse Mbah for Second Term

…declare him sole candidate of choice for Enugu governorship election

Traditional rulers from Awkunanaw cultural zone in Enugu State, under the aegis, “Council/Forum of Ndi Igwe from the Awkunanaw Extraction of Nkanu”, have declared their collective support for the re-election of Governor Peter Mbah in the 2027 Enugu State governorship election.

The traditional rulers, drawn from communities in Nkanu West and Enugu South Local Government Areas, stated their position in a communiqué issued on Monday, following deliberations and reflections on the affairs and development of Enugu State.

The Council said it acknowledged the leadership and development initiatives of the Mbah administration, particularly in infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, economic development, revenue generation and transportation.

It also recognised what it described as the direction of the present administration and efforts to reposition the State for sustainable growth and development.

The traditional rulers said this informed their recognition of the need for continuity in governance, particularly where ongoing programmes, reforms and development initiatives should be allowed to mature and deliver their full benefits.

“Following extensive deliberation and consultation among the Royal Fathers, we hereby state, in unison and without equivocation, our collective support for the re-election bid of His Excellency, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, as Governor of Enugu State,” they stated.

According to the communiqué, the position reflected the “collective will and resolution” of the Council/Forum of Ndi Igwe from the Awkunanaw Extraction of Nkanu.

The Council subsequently endorsed Mbah for re-election in 2027, stating: “We stand together in support of His Excellency, Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as our sole candidate of choice for the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Enugu State.”

It further stated: “Our endorsement is based on our assessment of the direction of governance, the development witnessed across the State, and our conviction that continuity will allow the administration to consolidate its programmes and further advance the State.”

The traditional rulers also reaffirmed their responsibility as custodians of their respective communities to listen to their people, articulate their concerns and support initiatives that promote peace, development, prosperity and the wellbeing of Ndi Enugu.

They pledged to continue engaging constructively with the Enugu State Government and communicating the concerns and aspirations of their communities through appropriate channels.

The communiqué was signed on behalf of the Council/Forum by 17 traditional rulers from the zone, namely HRH Igwe Daniel Nnamani of Amechi Uno Awkunanaw; Igwe Linus Okafor of Obeagu Uno; Igwe Greg Ugwu of Attakwu Akegbe Awkunanaw; Igwe Obiora Igweshi of Omuohа Obuofia Awkunanaw; Igwe Raymond Agwa of Akegbe Ugwu Awkunanaw; Igwe Mike Nnukwu of Obeagu Awkunanaw; Igwe Okechukwu Nwobodo of Umuatugbuoma Akegbe Awkunanaw; and Igwe Ignatius Ugwu of Amagu Akegbe Awkunanaw.

Others are Igwe Felix Nwobodo Ani of Ndiagu Obuofia Awkunanaw; Igwe Bernerd Nwoye of Akwuke Awkunanaw; Igwe Cyprian Ekwomchi of Akwukwu Uwani Awkunanaw; Igwe John Ngene Omedoaku of Amechi Awkunanaw; Igwe Chinedu Nwobodonyia of Ugwuaji Awkunanaw; Igwe J.A. Ogbodo of Amechi Uwani Awkunanaw; Igwe Emeka Ani of Umueze Awkunanaw; Igwe Maduabuchi Ugwu of Okpebe Amodu Awkunanaw; and Igwe Ferdinand Ukwu of Amechi Obuofia Awkunanaw.

September 17, 2026
Mbah Unveils Over 10,000 Milestone Achievements, Says Enugu on Course to Greatness

…Records 1,521km of roads, 7,000 classrooms, 260 Type-2 PHCs, sweeping reforms

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has unveiled a compendium of more than 10,000 milestones recorded in the first term of his administration across critical sectors of the Enugu State economy.

The compendium, entitled “A Thousand and One Reasons Why Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah Should be Re-elected as Governor of Enugu State,” was presented to the public at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, on Wednesday.

The compendium of milestones records, among others, over 1,521 kilometres of constructed and reconstructed roads, over 7,000 classrooms, 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres, Enugu Air, the New Enugu Smart City, and the revamp of moribund assets.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, Mbah said the compendium aligns with the Citizens Charter, also known as Executive Order 001, which he executed immediately he was sworn into office on 29th May 2023 to emphasise his administration’s commitment to accountability, traceability and transparency.

He, however, said the compendium highlighted the administration’s philosophy of disruptive innovation and its focus on large-scale infrastructure, noting that it did not contain all that had been done up to the day of unveiling.

“Our assignment today is not just to unveil the Citizens Charter via the compendium. It is a lot more than that. It is a conversation on the sacrosanct duty and responsibility you gave to us to midwife and preside over your resources.

“But above all, it is important to note that the document we are about to unveil does not entirely capture everything this government has done because, given the time it took to prepare this document, there was a cut-off point running months behind.

“So, this document that we shall unveil shortly does not in any particular material represent the actual successful modest achievements of this government as at 9th of September 2026.”

He thanked those who believed in his vision and worked for his election in 2023 and urged those affected in any way by the tough decisions the administration had to make, assuring them that Enugu was on its way to greatness as a $30bn economy and the preferred destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.

“I also want to thank all those who made sacrifices, who lost their friends because they felt supporting us was the right thing to do. I want to thank all those who invested their resources. I want to thank all those who took pains in very unimaginable circumstances to ensure that Enugu moves to the next level.

“But what you must take home with you is that our intentions are noble. What we try to do is to put Enugu on an irreversible path of greatness. What we try to do is to ensure that Enugu will not compete with Nigeria or within Nigeria, but globally” he added.

In his welcome address, the Secretary to Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the state had pursued an extensive urban development agenda, including the New Enugu Smart City, environmental sustainability and urban renewal.

He added that the State’s fiscal architecture had undergone significant reform through revenue automation, reforms at the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service, improved financial management, the Treasury Single Account, enterprise resource planning and broader institutional restructuring.

According to him, the administration had also sustained investments in youth empowerment, women development, technology, skills acquisition, social protection, tourism, environmental sustainability and community development.

He said the ultimate goal is to improve the lives of the people.

“Behind every project is a community; behind every policy is a citizen; and behind every statistic is a human being whose life government seeks to improve,” he concluded.

He also stressed the importance of institutional reforms in sustaining government programmes, stating: “Sustainable development requires not only projects that citizens can see, but institutions and systems that can sustain those projects.”

The Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Ben Nwoye, commended the administration for its development record and the scale of projects executed across the State.

The Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, commended the Governor for his developmental strides, pledging the continued support of the legislative arm of the state government.

The Chairman of the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, Igwe Samuel Asadu, equally spoke glowingly about the administration’s performance, saying a performing government should be supported to continue till 2031.

“We have never had it so good. It is not about party. But let us give the job to those who understand the job. The governor wants to move the Enugu State economy to a $30bn economy and that is exactly what he is doing,” he stated.

Chief of Staff to the Governor, Victor Udeh, described the compendium as an evidence-based publication and a commitment to accountability.

The event brought together political leaders, traditional and religious leaders, captains of industry, professionals, public servants and other stakeholders, who commended the administration for the scale and spread of its interventions across the State.

September 10, 2026
Peter Mbah: The Governor Redefining Enugu’s Story — Let the People Decide

By Emmanuel Uchenna Chukwu

Leadership is ultimately judged by impact.

Not by the number of promises made during campaigns. Not by the volume of political speeches. And certainly not by how loudly supporters or opponents speak on social media.

Leadership is judged by what changes.

It is judged by what the people can see, what they can feel and what they can point to.

This is why the leadership of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah deserves a careful and objective assessment.

Who is Peter Mbah?

He is not simply the man occupying the Lion Building. He is a governor who came into office with an ambitious vision of transforming Enugu State from a predominantly civil-service economy into a more productive, investment-driven and economically competitive state.

And that vision is increasingly becoming the central conversation about his administration.

From infrastructure and road construction to education, healthcare, urban renewal, economic development and efforts to attract investment, the administration has placed development at the centre of its agenda.

But beyond government statements and political arguments, the most important question remains:

What can the people see?

THE ROADS ARE SPEAKING

Across Enugu State, infrastructure remains one of the most visible areas through which citizens assess government performance.

Roads connect communities.

Roads open up businesses.

Roads reduce travel difficulties.

Roads create opportunities.

That is why investments in road infrastructure are not merely about constructing roads; they are about creating the physical foundation for economic growth and improving everyday life.

For many residents, the most meaningful measure of government is not a speech delivered in a conference hall but the road leading to their community.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

Another important part of the Mbah administration’s agenda is education.

A state cannot build a strong future without building strong minds.

Investment in schools, learning environments and human capital is therefore not simply another government project. It is an investment in the next generation of Enugu.

The same principle applies to healthcare.

A government that wants to build a prosperous society must ensure that its people have access to quality healthcare and the basic conditions necessary to live productive lives.

BEYOND TODAY: THE VISION FOR ENUGU

Perhaps the most important aspect of the Mbah administration is that its conversation is not limited to what is happening today.

It is also about what Enugu can become tomorrow.

The administration’s economic vision is centred on building a state that can attract investment, expand opportunities, create employment and develop an economy capable of generating sustainable prosperity.

That is a bigger conversation than politics.

It is a conversation about the future of our children.

It is a conversation about whether young people will have to leave Enugu to find opportunities elsewhere.

It is a conversation about whether businesses will see Enugu as a place where they can confidently invest and grow.

It is a conversation about whether Enugu can become one of Nigeria’s most competitive subnational economies.

These are the questions that should dominate our public discourse.

LET THE PEOPLE JUDGE

Nobody should be asked to support a government simply because somebody praises it.

Neither should anybody be asked to reject a government simply because somebody criticises it.

The people deserve better than that.

Let them look.

Let them ask questions.

Let them compare.

Let them examine the projects.

Let them listen to the communities.

Let them assess the direction of the state.

Let everybody bring their scorecard.

Governor Peter Mbah is bringing his.

2027 should therefore not be reduced to political noise, social-media battles or empty promises.

It should be about performance.

It should be about vision.

It should be about capacity.

It should be about continuity.

And above all, it should be about the future of Enugu State.

The conversation is no longer simply about what has been promised.

The evidence is everywhere.

The roads are speaking.

The schools are speaking.

The healthcare system is speaking.

The communities are speaking.

The business environment is speaking.

And ultimately, the people are speaking.

This is not the time to be distracted by political noise.

This is the time to look around and ask one simple question:

WHO IS MOVING ENUGU FORWARD?

The answer is in the work.

The answer is in the vision.

The answer is in the results.

ENUGU IS MOVING FORWARD.

THE VISION IS CLEAR.

THE WORK CONTINUES.

THE PEOPLE CAN SEE IT. ENUGU CAN FEEL IT. OUR TOMORROW IS HERE.

And when the time comes for the people to decide, let them decide not from rumours, not from propaganda and not from political emotions, but from the evidence before them.

Let the people decide.

August 20, 2026
2027: Nkanu West Pledges Block Votes for APC as Presidents General Endorse Nnolim Nnaji

The Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Hon. John Chukwuma Ogbodo, says the people of the council will deliver block votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election, as Presidents General from communities across Nkanu East and Nkanu West Federal Constituency endorsed the member representing the constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, for a third term.

The endorsement was announced on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Nkanu West council headquarters by the Presidents General from communities in the federal constituency, led by the Enugu State Coordinating President General, Hon. Chief Arinze Ogbodo, alongside the Coordinating Presidents General of Nkanu East and Nkanu West, Hon. Okey JS Nwatu and Hon. Jonathan Onyema Ugwu, respectively.

Presenting a letter of endorsement, vote of confidence and appreciation, Chief Arinze Ogbodo said the community leaders were impressed by what he described as Nnaji’s “uncountable projects” and developmental interventions across Nkanu East and Nkanu West.

He assured the federal lawmaker of the continued support of the Presidents General, saying they would mobilise grassroots support for his re-election.

Receiving the delegation, the council chairman, John Ogbodo described the endorsement as well deserved, saying Nnaji had demonstrated effective representation since assuming office.

He also commended Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for improving security and accelerating infrastructure development across Enugu State, particularly in Nkanu East and Nkanu West.

According to him, improved security under the Mbah administration has made it possible for residents to hold large public gatherings in areas that were previously affected by insecurity.

Urging the Presidents General to mobilise their communities ahead of the 2027 elections, Ogbodo expressed confidence that Nkanu West would deliver overwhelming support for the APC.

“We cannot stop eulogising the transcendental projects of our governor. Governor Mbah is so strategic and deliberate in fulfilling his campaign promises that he has sited in each political ward in Enugu State projects worth at least 1.1 billion naira. So, why won’t the people return him in 2027,” Ogbodo queried.

“For us in Nkanu West, our stakeholders, leaders of thought and the good people of our local government will deliver block votes to the APC,” he added.

He also urged the Presidents General to remain steadfast in supporting the administration, avoid political betrayal, and take ownership of state and local government projects in their respective communities.

In separate remarks, members representing Nkanu West and Nkanu East in the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Iloabuchi Aniagu and Rt. Hon. Okey Mbah, the APC candidate for Nkanu West State Constituency, Ifeanyi Nnamani, and Hon. Afam Nnaji, Member I of the Governing Board of the Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB), commended Governor Mbah for ongoing development projects across the state and praised Nnaji’s grassroots style of representation.

Responding to the endorsement, Nnolim Nnaji thanked the Presidents General and the people of the constituency for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to sustain his development efforts.

The lawmaker urged community leaders to adopt a village-based mobilisation strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Each ward has communities and these communities have villages, that in turn have village heads. This is the model we should explore in driving our campaign message ahead of the 2027 general elections,” he said.

Nnaji also called on the people of Nkanu East and Nkanu West to vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and all APC candidates in the 2027 elections, saying strong electoral support would strengthen the constituency’s voice at the national level.

The Secretary of Nkanu West LGA, Prince Barr. Onochie Igwesi, was among the dignitaries present.

August 1, 2026