The Enugu State Government has allocated land in the state capital for the establishment of a Digital Fabrication Centre by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) as part of efforts to strengthen technical skills, innovation and local manufacturing.

Governor Peter Mbah approved the allocation following a visit by a delegation from the ITF to the Enugu Government House. He described the proposed centre as part of his administration’s strategy to position the state as a destination for investment, technology and industrial development.

Mbah said the growing influence of digital technologies on traditional industries makes it necessary to equip young people with technical skills that can prepare them for the future of work.

He noted that Enugu has already incorporated technical education into its basic education system, with areas such as digital literacy, robotics and mechatronics receiving greater attention.

The governor also said the state has established smart schools equipped with robotics centres, mechatronics laboratories and other modern learning facilities.

According to him, the proposed ITF centre will complement these efforts by strengthening technical training, encouraging innovation, supporting local manufacturing and creating employment opportunities for young people.

ITF Targets Internationally Competitive Artisans

The Director-General of the ITF, Dr Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, said the organisation is working to improve the skills of Nigerian artisans and bring them closer to international standards.

He pointed to the Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) Programme, which is designed to train, certify and licence artisans while improving the quality of technical services available in the country.

Ogun said the ITF had already established a Digital Fabrication Centre in Ikeja, Lagos, with the capacity to produce more than 400 different products.

The Fund is seeking to establish a similar facility in Enugu, with comparable production capacity.

Centre to Support Local Manufacturing

The proposed facility is expected to combine digital technologies with manufacturing and technical training.

The ITF said the initiative is intended to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported products while preparing workers for opportunities created by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics and computer-aided manufacturing are increasingly changing how products are designed, developed and manufactured.

The ITF believes that developing these capabilities locally could help Nigerian artisans and young people compete in a more technology-driven economy.

Ogun also expressed the Fund’s willingness to work with private-sector organisations through public-private partnerships (PPPs) to expand opportunities within Nigeria’s artisanal and technical workforce.

The ITF delegation subsequently visited one of Enugu State’s smart schools to assess some of the facilities already being developed by the state.

The planned Digital Fabrication Centre therefore represents more than another skills-training facility. If properly implemented, it could strengthen the connection between technical education, digital manufacturing, entrepreneurship and employment in Enugu.

For Nigeria, the bigger challenge will be ensuring that investments in technical infrastructure translate into practical skills, locally produced goods and sustainable employment rather than remaining isolated projects.

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For more than three decades, residents of Mgbidi community in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State have struggled to complete a bridge project initiated and funded through communal efforts, but the structure remains unfinished.

With the project estimated at about 55 per cent completion, the community is now appealing to Governor Peter Mbah and elected representatives from the area to intervene and rescue it from decades of infrastructural neglect.

Speaking on the abandoned project, President-General of Mgbidi Central Union (MCU), Barrister Tochukwu Nzeh, said the community had exhausted its resources and could no longer sustain the project due to the rising cost of construction materials.

“We have done our best as a community, but we can no longer continue. We are appealing to Governor Peter Mbah to come to our aid and help us complete this bridge,” Nzeh said.

He lamented that despite its population, economic contributions and historical significance, Mgbidi has continued to suffer neglect from successive administrations.

According to him, there is little or no government presence in the two autonomous communities that make up Mgbidi, while basic infrastructure such as healthcare facilities remains in poor condition.

Beyond the bridge project, Nzeh highlighted the deplorable state of the community’s only access road — a seven-kilometre stretch linking Mgbidi to neighbouring Mmaku on the Awgu-Oji River Federal Road.

He explained that the road, originally constructed through communal efforts more than a century ago, has deteriorated significantly and remains a major challenge for residents.

The road traverses the entire community and extends to Adani Ezioha village, which hosts the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp.

Nzeh noted that completing the bridge and rehabilitating the road would not only benefit Mgbidi but also neighbouring communities including Nenwenta, Nkwe and Ezere, whose residents depend on the route for transportation and economic activities.

“Besides connecting the two autonomous communities in Mgbidi, this road and bridge, when completed, will bring immense relief to neighbouring communities and boost economic activities in the area,” he stated.

As a predominantly agrarian community, Mgbidi is known for producing vegetables, cassava, pineapples and other farm produce supplied to major markets in Enugu, Awka, Onitsha, Aba and Port Harcourt.

However, residents say poor road infrastructure has continued to hinder economic activities, making it difficult for farmers to transport goods to markets and discouraging buyers from visiting the area.

Community leaders also noted that the poor road network has created hardships for traders, students, pregnant women and elderly residents, particularly during the rainy season when sections of the road become nearly impassable.

Nzeh said Mgbidi, with a population of more than 52,000 people, remains one of the largest farming communities in Awgu Local Government Area and possesses significant tourism potential.

He identified natural attractions such as caves, waterfalls and other scenic sites that could attract tourists and investors if supported with adequate infrastructure.

Community leaders argue that Mgbidi’s strategic importance and contributions to the development of the area make its prolonged neglect difficult to justify.

The community is widely recognised as the ancestral home of the late Chief G.I. Oko, a prominent leader whose contributions were instrumental to the creation of the old Awgu Division during the colonial era.

A community leader, Ichie Matthew Okpara, and a retired civil servant, Chief Festus Ifeji, expressed concern over the continued neglect of the area despite its historical significance.

“For years, the people have watched neighbouring communities benefit from government projects while Mgbidi remained on the margins,” Ifeji said.

He added that the poor condition of roads, healthcare facilities and other critical infrastructure has continued to limit economic opportunities and force many young people to migrate in search of better prospects.

Speaking emotionally, 98-year-old Ichie Okpara appealed to Governor Mbah to intervene and ensure the completion of the bridge project during his lifetime.

Earlier this year, an indigene of the community drew public attention to the plight of Mgbidi through a viral video highlighting the deplorable state of the road and the abandoned bridge project.

The resident recalled that construction of the bridge had already commenced while he was still in primary school but lamented that decades later, the project remains unfinished due to lack of funding.

While commending Governor Mbah for ongoing developmental projects across Enugu State, including the Smart School project under construction in Mgbidi, he appealed for similar intervention in road and bridge infrastructure.

“I have seen the transformation taking place across Enugu State under Governor Peter Mbah. I believe he will extend the same intervention to Mgbidi and bring an end to decades of hardship suffered by our people,” he said.

Also speaking, an Enugu-based cleric from the community, Pastor Edwin Ogbonna, called for urgent government intervention, noting that residents had continued to pray for a breakthrough on the project.

For many residents, the appeal goes beyond completing a bridge or rehabilitating a road. It represents a call for inclusion, development and recognition after more than 30 years of waiting.

Having sustained the project through communal efforts for decades, the people of Mgbidi say their hope now rests on government intervention to finally turn their long-awaited dream into reality.

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Enugu State has recorded a strong fiscal performance in the first quarter of 2026, generating a total revenue of N101.8 billion.

According to a First Quarter Budget Performance Report, the state also posted N43.9 billion in internally generated revenue (IGR), reflecting improved revenue mobilisation and growing fiscal independence.

The revenue growth was driven by a mix of IGR expansion and allocations from the Federation Account, which contributed N57.86 billion during the period.

Revenue Structure Signals Fiscal Stability

The data shows that IGR accounted for about 43 percent of total inflows, a sign that the state is gradually reducing reliance on federal allocations.

This shift is critical for long-term economic resilience, especially as subnational governments face increasing fiscal pressures.

Capital Spending Drives Development Push

The report highlights a strong emphasis on capital expenditure, with N31.37 billion committed to infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

This indicates a deliberate strategy to convert rising revenues into tangible development outcomes.

Breakdown of key expenditures includes:

• Ministry of Works and Infrastructure – N23.93 billion
• Office of the Accountant General – N5.33 billion
• State Universal Basic Education Board – N4.55 billion
• Office of the Head of Service – N3.34 billion
• Primary Healthcare Development Agency – N1.79 billion

Meanwhile, personnel costs stood at N12.69 billion, while overhead and other recurrent expenses remained relatively controlled at N1.52 billion and N3.32 billion respectively.

Balanced Spending Profile Emerges

The figures suggest that Enugu is maintaining a moderate recurrent expenditure structure while prioritising investment in productive sectors.

This balance is often seen as a key indicator of prudent fiscal management at the state level.

Ambitious Revenue Targets Underway

Governor Peter Mbah has previously set an ambitious IGR target of N870 billion for 2026.

The administration projects rapid growth, citing an increase from under N30 billion in 2023 to over N180 billion in 2024, with expectations of hitting N400 billion by the end of 2025.

The 2026 budget reflects a 66.5 percent increase compared to the previous fiscal year, underscoring the government’s aggressive economic expansion strategy.

Debt and Growth Context

Despite strong revenue performance, the state’s rising debt profile remains part of the broader fiscal picture.

In 2025, Enugu’s debt rose to N157.60 billion, indicating increased borrowing to fund infrastructure and social investments.

While this aligns with the state’s development agenda, it also highlights the need for sustained revenue growth to maintain fiscal sustainability.

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Tension is rising in Enugu State as host communities protest an alleged plan by the state government to convert part of a school land into a commercial housing estate.

Residents of Amauzam-Ugbawka and Agbani communities in Nkanu East Local Government Area staged a protest over reports that undeveloped portions of the Girls Special Science School, Agbani, have been earmarked for a housing project.

The protesters described the move as “land grabbing,” insisting that the land was originally acquired for educational purposes and should not be repurposed without due consultation.

Carrying placards, the demonstrators said the development would further dispossess them of ancestral land, more than two decades after the school was established without clearly defined boundaries.

They called on Governor Peter Mbah to intervene by halting the proposed housing project and ensuring proper demarcation of the school’s land.

According to the communities, the disputed land spans Ugbawka Amauzam and Agbani and was acquired during the administration of former governor Chimaroke Nnamani without adequate consultation or clear boundary definition.

The protesters said repeated efforts to resolve the issue had yielded no results. They recalled writing to the administration of former governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi in 2016, requesting a formal survey and clarification of the school’s boundaries.

They also noted that a similar appeal was made to the current administration in 2024, seeking either the return of unused land or compensation for affected families.

Although security personnel prevented the protesters from gaining access to the Government House, a petition outlining their grievances was submitted.

In the petition, community leaders expressed frustration over what they described as a breach of trust, alleging that earlier discussions around resizing the school land had now been replaced with plans for commercial development.

They urged the government to respect the provisions of the Land Use Act by engaging host communities, returning unutilised land, and compensating those whose lands had already been taken.

The controversy highlights growing concerns over land administration and urban development in Enugu, particularly as housing expansion increasingly intersects with community land rights.

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Governor of has dismissed claims that residents are facing excessive taxation, describing the allegations as misleading narratives pushed by opposition figures and individuals who previously benefited from irregular revenue collection practices.

The governor said his administration has not increased taxes but has instead focused on expanding the tax base, blocking revenue leakages, and improving transparency in revenue generation.

IGR Growth Driven by Reforms

Speaking during an interview on , Mbah explained that the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) growth resulted from reforms aimed at improving efficiency rather than increasing tax rates.

He noted that Enugu’s IGR rose from ₦26.8 billion in 2022 to ₦37.4 billion in 2023, before increasing significantly to ₦180.5 billion in 2024 and ₦406.7 billion in 2025.

According to the governor, tax revenue accounted for only ₦51.5 billion, representing 12.6 percent of the total IGR in 2025, while non-tax revenue contributed ₦355.2 billion, or 87.4 percent.

Tax Laws Determined by Federal Government

Mbah clarified that state governments do not have the constitutional authority to impose new taxes.

He said the places taxation matters such as personal income tax, company income tax, value-added tax, and withholding tax under the legislative powers of the .

Reduction in Some State Charges

The governor added that his administration has even reduced certain state charges, particularly those related to land services.

He explained that a committee made up of market leaders, labour representatives, and the reviewed charges across South-East states and found that Enugu already had the lowest rates.

Despite this, the government further reduced some charges by up to 70 percent, especially in the land sector.

Crackdown on Illegal Revenue Collectors

While dismissing claims of high taxation, Mbah acknowledged the activities of illegal revenue collectors operating in the state.

He said the recently enacted was designed to eliminate illegal roadblocks and unauthorised collections.

The governor warned that individuals involved in extortion would be arrested and prosecuted, adding that the state has set up a task force and toll-free lines to enable residents report such activities.

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The N1.62 trillion 2026 budget presented by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to the state House of Assembly signals a major push for infrastructure and economic development across the state.

Of the total budget, a significant N1.3 trillion (approximately 80 percent) is earmarked for capital expenditure, with only 20 percent allocated to recurrent spending. The emphasis on capital projects reflects the governor’s strategic focus on wealth creation, real estate growth, and improving the state’s economy.

The budget highlights roads and infrastructure as key drivers of real estate development, linking communities, reducing transportation costs, and encouraging investment outside urban centres. Key projects include:

• Construction of 1,200 urban roads and numerous rural roads

• Completion of the 40-kilometre Owo-Ubahu-Amankanu-Neke-Ikem dual carriageway

• Dualisation of the Abakpa Nike – Ugwogo Nike – Ekwegbe – Opi-Nsukka Road

• 21.65-kilometre Enugu–Abakaliki Expressway

Governor Mbah’s infrastructure agenda aims to boost internally generated revenue (IGR) and expand the state’s GDP by driving investment and enhancing connectivity. The state has already initiated rehabilitation of 141 urban roads across 13 zones, with an allocation of N183 billion, contributing to urban renewal and modernisation of ancient markets and motor parks.

According to local land agents, land prices across Enugu have surged in response to infrastructure development. For instance, plots in the Nike Lake Resort area, which sold for N8–11 million in 2023/2024, now fetch between N20–25 million. Demand is particularly strong from diaspora buyers and Enugu indigenes living in cities such as Lagos and Abuja.

The budget also focuses on transportation improvements, including the construction of five new transport terminals in Emene, Udi, Awgu, Four-Corners (Ozalla), and Obollo-Afor. In addition, 15,000 mass housing units are planned, and further infrastructure development is projected for the New Enugu City.

With the state’s IGR expected to exceed ₦400 billion by year-end, these initiatives are anticipated to generate significant economic activity, create jobs, increase purchasing power, and support sustainable growth in the real estate sector.

Governor Mbah’s strategic capital allocation underscores his commitment to building a modern, economically vibrant, and real estate-friendly Enugu State, benefiting residents, investors, and the wider economy.

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Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has unveiled a new batch of hi-tech security equipment and patrol vehicles procured by the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF) to further strengthen safety and protect lives and property.

The newly commissioned equipment includes two state-of-the-art VTOL drones, 10 Hilux 4×4 patrol vehicles, 40 motorcycles, 400 bulletproof vests, and 400 bulletproof helmets.

Mbah Commends ESSTF, Highlights Ongoing Investments in Safety

Speaking at the Government House, Enugu, Governor Mbah praised the ESSTF Trustees for their commitment to enhancing the state’s security architecture. He emphasized that these assets complement the administration’s significant investments—such as the state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, AI-enabled surveillance cameras, and over 150 Distress Response Squad vehicles fitted with AI cameras.

Mbah noted that Enugu’s transformational achievements would mean little without the safety of lives and property, vowing continued partnership with the Federal Government to keep the state secure.

Violent Crimes Reduced by Over 80% — Mbah

The governor announced that Enugu State has recorded a more than 80% reduction in violent crimes, but insisted that the government will not relax efforts.

“Security is one sector where even a 90% score can be undone by one breach. This is why we must continue investing in equipment and infrastructure,” Mbah said.

ESSTF: ‘No Hiding Place for Criminals in Enugu’

Representing the ESSTF Chairman, Nath Udeh stated that the new equipment strengthens the state’s ability to track and apprehend criminals. He added that improved security is already attracting business activities, increased flights, and corporate retreats to Enugu.

VTOL Drones Offer 100km Range, AI-Enhanced Capabilities

ESSTF Executive Secretary, Engr. Chinedu Ani, explained that the Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drones can operate in any terrain and do not require a runway. With a 100km range, 120km/h cruising speed, and multiple cameras—thermal, night vision, and AI-powered imaging—the drones significantly boost surveillance capacity.

 Enugu’s Strategic Importance to South East Security

Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Onyia, Trustee of ESSTF and Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, emphasized Enugu’s critical role in maintaining stability across the South East.

“If terrorists get through Enugu, the entire South East is at risk. Leaving the state porous is not an option,” he stated.

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The Enugu State Government has demolished a bungalow in Umueze Awkunanaw, Nkanu West Local Government Area, allegedly used by kidnappers to detain victims.

The demolition followed the rescue of a kidnap victim by security operatives at the site. The prime suspect, identified as Igwenagu Ogbodo, and his gang reportedly fled with gunshot wounds during the operation.

Speaking at the scene, Nkanu West Council Chairman, John Ogbodo, praised Governor Peter Mbah for his strong stance on insecurity. He said the action aligned with the governor’s warning that any property used for criminal activities would be demolished.

“This is not the first demolition linked to kidnapping in the state,” he noted, “but the first in Nkanu West. It will serve as a clear warning to others.”

He urged community leaders and landlords to monitor residents and report suspicious individuals to security agencies, stressing that properties harbouring criminals would face the same fate.

The council boss added that the demolition reflects the government’s resolve to eliminate crime, supported by advanced technology and manpower deployed across the state.

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Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has approved a 50 per cent reduction in fees for processing Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) and other land documents.

Chiwetalu Nwatu, Managing Director of the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), said on Saturday that the move aims to empower landowners, attract investment, and ensure all properties in the state are properly documented.

The discount, effective from October 15 for 45 days, allows landowners to process titles at half the usual cost. Nwatu added that the initiative targets low-income earners and unregistered landowners who previously could not afford documentation.

He noted that C of Os are now processed within 48 to 72 hours, thanks to full digitisation of land services, which has improved transparency and eliminated delays.

“This 50 per cent cut reflects Governor Mbah’s commitment to inclusivity, investment confidence, and economic growth,” Nwatu said.

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Broom traders in Enugu are recording booming sales as demand soars ahead of Governor Peter Mbah’s official defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mbah’s formal announcement, set for Tuesday, follows a cabinet meeting where he and his aides resolved to join the APC. In a video shared by his media aide, Dan Nwomeh, officials were seen waving APC flags and chanting praises for President Bola Tinubu.

The political switch has sparked a rush for brooms  the APC’s symbol  across major markets. Sellers say stocks have sold out as supporters prepare for Tuesday’s rally.

At Kenyatta Market, Mrs. Ifeoma Obigeri said, “My new and old stock finished this morning after people came to clear everything.” Another trader, Obinna Maduagwu, added, “Business has been great since the rumours started. Everyone is buying brooms.”

With the defection rally expected to draw large crowds, broom sellers across Enugu are racing to restock, hoping to profit from the city’s latest political wave.

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