The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Governor Mbah transforming Enugu, says Nwafor

    Governor Mbah transforming Enugu, says Nwafor

    Okechukwu Nwafor, convener of Concerned Professionals for Good Governance, a leadership advocacy group, has commended Governor Peter Mbah for his developmental efforts in Enugu State.

    In a press statement, Nwafor noted that in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, Enugu State has emerged as a prime example of how support for good governance and visionary leadership can transcend party lines.

    He emphasised that despite being under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) since 1999, the state—now led by Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah—continues to earn bipartisan recognition for its remarkable leadership and governance.

    He said: “The young man who maintains that his calling in leadership is to make a difference in Enugu state is remarkably MAD (Making A Difference) in just about everything that defines good governance. He is MAD about infrastructural development with the spread of good roads, ultra-modern infrastructure and pipe-borne water across the state. He is MAD about Healthcare with modern medical facilities springing up in the wards and local government areas of the state”.

    “He is MAD about Education with Smart Schools and Improved learning infrastructure becoming the new norm in Enugu State. He is MAD about Urban and Rural Development. He is MAD about wealth creation, skill development, agriculture, and foreign direct investment for which an international conference centre, a complimenting five star hotel, the cargo section of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, the repositioning of the Nike Lake Resort and many other world-class touristic and business enabling facilities occupy the trust of the Peter Mbah led government. And he is MAD about Security of Lives and Property ditto the Enugu State Crime Control Centre from which premium time intervention in Crime Control is prime.”

    “Same thought and profound logic demands that those nursing political ambition for the sake of making Enugu great should sacrifice individualism at the altar of the collective good, and acknowledge the profound strides of the one presently making a difference in Enugu state. Enugu  State is scoring remarkable firsts in several aspects of leadership in the Country, even the President of the Country who is of the All Progressive Congress (APC) confirmed this Truism when he Commissioned some mind-blowing and eye popping infrastructure in Enugu State recently. 

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    “The media is awash with the verifiable feats of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. And partisans and non-partisans alike are awe-struck by the awe-inspiring strides of Enugu State under the watch of Governor Peter Mbah, therefore attempting to spread mud, to throw darts, and or inspire content creators, skit makers and Skew-Breeding-Acts to dent or rubbish the profound feats of the Peter Mbah led government in Enugu won’t stick, and it won’t cut an ice.”

    “Assuming but not conceding to the authenticity of a certain video that went viral a few days ago with the caption ‘The Enugu state government demolishing a building with people inside’, with the odious motive of presenting the government in bad light, the question we must ask the naysayers is must government wait ad infinitum ad nauseam after serving several notices at environmental and planning regulation defaulters? Where in Nigeria do people remain in Buildings undergoing demolition? Why, if not for mischief purposes would people remain in a building undergoing demolition only to start jumping out like movie actors? Why are people so desperate for power and ambition that they script sickening bits to cast dart at a performing government? 

    “To what end was the childishly scripted brief? Has the naysayers forgotten that light will forever overcome and overwhelm darkness? Truly folks, the darts won’t stick and the lies won’t grow. Like the Star-headed projectile Enugu State shall soar from great heights to greater heights under the watch of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and naysayers cannot dim the glow.”

    “Ndi’Enugu, Ndi’Igbo, country men and women, there behooves on all men and women of goodwill a duty to support beyond partisanship those who emblematise and define good leadership, that way we can etch new and laudable paradigms on our socio-political kaleidoscope… Peter Mbah does, and the government of Enugu State is unarguably one of the best in today’s Nigeria, if not the very best”, he said.

  • Ebonyi First Lady urges parents to embrace measles, Rubella vaccination

    Ebonyi First Lady urges parents to embrace measles, Rubella vaccination

    The Wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs. Maudline Nwifuru, has called on parents to ensure their children receive measles and rubella vaccinations, assuring them of the vaccines’ safety.

    She made this appeal during the flag-off of a sensitization and awareness campaign on measles and rubella vaccination in the state.

    Speaking at the event held at the Women Development Center, Abakaliki, Mrs. Nwifuru emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Initiative of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

    She highlighted that measles and rubella are preventable diseases and stressed the importance of routine vaccination to safeguard children’s health.

    “Today marks a significant step in our efforts to create awareness and sensitization of vaccine ahead of the October 25th massive vaccination against measles and rubella” 

    “Government would continue to invest in immunization, all government appointees have a role to play in ensuring the success of the campaign”

    Mrs Nwifuru said that the advocacy/sensitization campaign would focus on use of radio/television outlets, community engagement, outreach by health workers to reach out to the grassroot.

    “As an advocate of maternal and child health, the campaign align with the vision of Renewed Hope Initiative and BERWO Foundation”

    “Vaccine is a life saver, it is not meant to kill anybody, I urge all parents, caretakers to bring their children to the nearest vaccination center”

    The State Commissioner for Health, Moses Ekuma, stated that the essence of the gathering was for awareness and sensitization creation on measles and rubella vaccine.

    The commissioner emphasized that the awareness campaign commenced early enough in order to take the message to the villages.

    “We discovered that why some people do not accept vaccination for their children was because they were not informed before the health workers visit them for vaccination”

    “We do not want any single case of measles in Ebonyi State, because measles is a killer of children, it is preventable”

    “We are talking about this ailment because it is a killer of our children, by October 2925 there will be mass vaccination of children “, he said.

    The World Health Organization, Surveillance Officer, Dr Elandi Dadi, noted that the endemic rate of measles has reduced drastically due to intensive campaign.

    “For Ebonyi State in 2022, the State recorded 322 suspected cases of measles with 49 confirmed cases, 

    “In 2023, it came down to 118 suspected cases with 19 confirmed,.WHO embarked on this  campaigns because of its outbreak”

    “In 2024, we had about 86 suspected cases with only one confirmed, you can see that there is downward reduction”

    He said that WHO strategic programme 2023- 2030 was geared towards eradicating measles.

     President of Medical Women Association of Nigeria, Dr Ndidiamaka Lilian Nwaobashi in a lecture titled, “Benefits of Vaccines Measles and Rubella”, harped on the need for mothers and caregivers to report early detection to the hospital.

    Mrs Nwaobashi identified high fever, rashes, cough, catarrh and reddish of the eyes as major symptoms of measles.

    “The difference between measles and rubella is traceable in the way they present to their victims, vaccination is the cure for both” 

    Contributing, the Ebonyi State Immunization Officer, Mr Nwodom Christopher, said that the target for Ebonyi State is children between 9-15 months.

    “Ebonyi State has 352,000 children to be vaccinated, our target is to ensure that those children are being reached”

    “We are starting the sensitization activity now at the state, wards and the grassroots, by October 2025, the implementation proper would come up”

    It would be noted that the Federal Government has slated October 2025, as the date for the take off of massive vaccination of children between 5-15 months against measles and rubella.

    The event had in attendance members of the State Executive Council, Development Partners,  traditional rulers, council chairmen, health workers, market women and officials of World Health Organization (WHO).

  • Onoh hails El-Rufai at 65

    Onoh hails El-Rufai at 65

    President Bola Tinubu’s former campaign spokesman in the South East, Dr. Josef Onoh, has described the immediate past Kaduna Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, as a resilient misunderstood statesman who has no political and social boundaries.

    Onoh said that the former Governor has shown his ability to make friendship across boards, absorb shocks and quickly overcome political differences.

    He congratulated El-Rufai in his attainment of 65 years, noting that longevity is blessing from God which men have no control over the gift.

    Onoh urged the former Governor to remain steadfast in his passion for a united country and advancement of the development and well-being of the people of Nigeria.

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    He stated that El-Rufai as a statesman has by no means pursued the political stabilisation of the country, citing his efforts at the formations of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All progressives Congress (APC) and dedicated years to public service. 

    “Something is only truly ‘free’ when its existence and actions are solely determined by its own inherent nature, without any external influence or compulsion hence I wish you a happy birthday from the bottom of my heart in all sincerity, devoid of politics but immense respect you deserve. You remain the great genie in the lamp of our collective success,” Onoh extolled.

  • Former DG Governors’ Forum Onaiwu hails Tinubu on creation of SEDC

    Former DG Governors’ Forum Onaiwu hails Tinubu on creation of SEDC

    A former Director-General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, has congratulated President Ahmed Tinubu on the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), describing it as a bold step towards addressing the long-standing developmental challenges in the region.

    The SEDC, a newly established initiative, aims to tackle critical issues such as erosion, insecurity, and the decline in education that have persisted in the South East since the end of the Nigerian Civil War.

    The commission will be responsible for coordinating development projects, attracting investments, and spearheading key infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and water resources.

    In a statement, Onaiwu praised President Tinubu’s vision and commitment to ensuring the progress of the South East, emphasizing that the SEDC would play a crucial role in boosting economic growth, improving living conditions, and enhancing the overall well-being of the people.

    “I commend President Tinubu for his vision and commitment to addressing the development needs of the Southeast region,” Onaiwu said. “The establishment of the SEDC is a significant step towards promoting economic growth, improving living standards, and enhancing the overall well-being of the people in the region.”

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    He also called on South East Governors to fully align with the President’s agenda for the SEDC, urging them to collaborate with local communities and other stakeholders in identifying the region’s most pressing needs and implementing strategic solutions.

    According to him, such a partnership would ensure that development efforts are tailored to the specific requirements of the South East, leading to maximum impact.

    Onaiwu reaffirmed his support for the initiative, pledging to contribute towards the successful implementation of the SEDC’s mandate.

    The establishment of the SEDC marks a significant milestone in the federal government’s efforts to address the unique challenges facing the South East, paving the way for sustainable growth and development in the region.

  • Klinsmann canvasses diaspora support for SEDC’s $200bn economic vision

    Klinsmann canvasses diaspora support for SEDC’s $200bn economic vision

    Stockholm-based development advocate and public affairs analyst, Pharmacist Chinedu Ikeagwuonwu Klinsmann, has called on Igbos in the diaspora to rally behind the ambitious $200 billion development target set by the South-East Development Commission (SEDC).

    In a statement on Friday, Klinsmann commended Hon. Mark Okoye, Managing Director/CEO of the SEDC, for unveiling a bold and strategic roadmap to transform the economic landscape of the South-East region by 2035. 

    He described the plan as a game-changer that, if fully implemented, will address longstanding infrastructural deficits, industrial stagnation, and human capital underdevelopment across the five states of the South-East.

    Klinsmann noted Okoye, in his inaugural address, outlined the SEDC’s commitment to tackling critical challenges such as poor road networks, insecurity, environmental degradation, and high unemployment rates. 

    According to the SEDC boss, the $200 billion target will be achieved through strategic partnerships with local and international stakeholders, attracting foreign investments, and fostering innovation across key sectors.

    “The SEDC’s vision is clear and transformative. This is not just about financial figures – it is about the future of the South-East. We are talking about the development of world-class infrastructure, industrialization, agricultural expansion, and the creation of millions of jobs for our people,” Klinsmann stated.

    The SEDC’s comprehensive economic growth strategy,  Klinsmann noted, includes investment in road networks, rail transport, energy supply, and smart city projects. He further listed establishing innovation hubs, fintech centers, and manufacturing clusters; expanding commercial farming and building food processing industries; and developing state-of-the-art hospitals, medical research centers, and world-class educational institutions. 

    In terms of security and stability, Klinsmann said the SEDC plans to strengthen security frameworks to create a safe and conducive investment environment.

    He also emphasised the crucial role of Igbos in the diaspora in making this vision a reality. He highlighted the Igbo population abroad is one of the most enterprising with professionals excelling in various fields such as business, medicine, technology, and finance.

     He urged them to leverage their expertise, financial strength, and global networks to support SEDC’s agenda.

    “Igbos in the diaspora have the power to reshape the economic future of the South-East. Their investments, knowledge, and international exposure can help bridge the development gap in the region. This is the time for collective action. Igbos in the diaspora must take ownership of this economic renaissance,” Klinsmann asserted.

    Klinsmann, who hails from Anambra State, praised Okoye’s leadership, describing him as a visionary with a track record of success in economic planning, policy formulation, and investment promotion. 

    He recalled Okoye’s impactful tenure as Anambra Commissioner for Economic Planning, Budget, and Development Partners, during which he played a pivotal role in attracting major investments to the state.

    “Hon. Mark Okoye is one of the most capable young leaders of our time. His leadership at the SEDC is a masterstroke, and with the right support, he will drive the South-East towards an era of economic excellence,” Klinsmann remarked.

    Expatiating on how the Igbo diaspora can actively support the SEDC’s development target, Pharm. Klinsmann outlined amongst others, Investment in Infrastructure – by way of funding highways, bridges, power plants, and industrial zones; Diaspora Development Bonds, which entails participating in structured investment opportunities that offer returns while supporting regional development; and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), in other words,  collaborating with the SEDC to complete large-scale projects.

     He further listed technology transfer & business expansion, vis-a-vis establishing businesses, innovation hubs, and mentoring young entrepreneurs; as well as supporting community-based security strategies to enhance stability and attract investments.

    The social commentator welcomed Okoye’s commitment to transparency, particularly the launch of an interactive SEDC website for real-time project monitoring and stakeholder engagement. He stressed that a structured accountability framework is key to ensuring that all investments and initiatives yield tangible results.

    “With clear monitoring mechanisms in place, stakeholders – including diaspora investors – can track project progress in real-time, ensuring accountability and fostering trust in SEDC’s vision. This is a major step towards encouraging more participation,” Klinsmann said.

    Klinsmann urged all Igbo professionals, business leaders, and investors abroad to rally behind the SEDC’s $200 billion vision, emphasizing that the transformation of the South-East requires a collective effort.

    “The SEDC’s development target is a beam of hope for the South East. It’s about a brighter future for our children, and ensuring that the South-East stands as a beacon of economic prosperity. This is a defining moment for Ndigbo. Let us seize this opportunity to reshape our economic future together,” Klinsmann declared.

  • SEDC’s Okoye commits to innovation, development in South east

    SEDC’s Okoye commits to innovation, development in South east

    The Managing Director/CEO of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mr. Mark C. Okoye II, has pledged to lead the Commission with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and accountability.

     Speaking at the official inauguration of the SEDC Board at Abuja, Okoye emphasised the Commission’s role in transforming the South East region into a hub of socio-economic growth and inclusive development.

    Okoye, in a statement by the Department of Corporate Services SEDC lauded the Federal Government’s commitment to regional development, crediting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the SEDC—a milestone achievement that previous administrations were unable to accomplish. “Together, we will support the Governors in realizing a South East that thrives on opportunity, equity, and progress,” he affirmed.

    Highlighting the Commission’s mission, Mr. Okoye stressed the importance of leveraging the region’s unique strengths while addressing critical development challenges. He called on stakeholders across the public and private sectors, as well as the South East diaspora, to collaborate in advancing the region’s growth.

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    The SEDC Board, chaired by Dr. Emeka Wogu, is composed of seasoned professionals whose diverse expertise will guide the Commission’s strategic initiatives. In his remarks, Dr. Wogu underscored the need for unity and strategic planning, urging stakeholders to work collectively in transforming the South East into a beacon of hope and progress.

    The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to the principles outlined in its founding Act, promising transparency and innovative approaches to expedite the realization of its developmental mandate. It also called on youth, women, Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), religious leaders, private sector actors, and the broader community to unite in building a prosperous and cohesive region.

    With the inauguration of the SEDC Board and a clear vision under the Chairmanship of Dr. Emeka Wogu, a new era of sustainable regional development has begun for the South East and Nigeria.

  • Cross River seeks Russian partnership for mineral devt, professional training

    Cross River seeks Russian partnership for mineral devt, professional training

    The Cross River State Government is exploring a partnership with Russia to boost its solid mineral industry and enhance professional training in fields like mineral exploration and healthcare.

    This initiative aligns with the state’s “People’s First” agenda, aimed at fostering economic growth and human capital development.

    Speaking, Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu expressed this interest during a diplomatic and business meeting yesterday, with Russia’s Trade Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Maxim Petrov, and Senior Counselor at the Russian Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Sergei Pliushchov.

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    Otu, who was accompanied by his Special Adviser on Intervention and Grants, as well as the Cross River State Coordinator for AUDA/NEPAD, Dr. Prince Michael Nku Abuo, emphasised Cross River’s vast mineral wealth and skilled workforce, positioning the state as a prime destination for investment and tourism.

    He called on Russia to collaborate in unlocking these potentials.

    In response, Mr. Petrov assured the governor of Russia’s readiness to partner in solid mineral mapping, exploration, and analysis. He also highlighted opportunities for scholarships and accommodation for Cross River students studying scientific fields in Russia, healthcare training programs, and investment support for processing and refining plants in the state.

  • NSCDC arrests three suspected crude oil thieves in Abia

    NSCDC arrests three suspected crude oil thieves in Abia

    The Abia State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested three suspects for vandalisation of oil pipeline, oil theft and illegal dealings in petroleum products.

    The suspects were arrested by the NSCDC personnel at Umuowaga Umuelechi Obuzo Asa in Ukwa West local government area of Abia State.

    The arrest of the suspects came on the heels of credible intelligence, which prompted the Anti-Vandal Patrol team of the command to swiftly respond and discovered substantial quantities of petroleum products that they have illegally siphoned.

    The suspects were identified as: Oscar Eteobong (M) Aged 37 from Abak LGA, Issac Aniete Edemba Udoh (M) Aged 40 from Obot Akara LGA both in Akwa Ibom State and Emmanuel Uzoma Sunday (M) Aged20 from Isiala-Ngwa North LGA in Abia State were arrested by the NSCDC team.

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    Reacting to the arrest of the suspects, the Abia State Commandant of NSCDC, Akinsola Aderemi hinted that investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in this criminal enterprise channeled towards sabotaging the nation’s economy. 

    Commandant Akinsola further reaffirmed the commitment of the Corps to rooting out criminal elements from Abia State and beyond.

    He warned all criminal elements operating within the state to desist from illegal activities or face the full wrath of the law. 

    The NSCDC State chief also called upon the public to collaborate with NSCDC by providing credible intelligence that will help in apprehending criminals.

  • Okpebholo, Oshiomhole, Onyema to receive awards at 2025 Etsako Club 81 cultural celebration

    Okpebholo, Oshiomhole, Onyema to receive awards at 2025 Etsako Club 81 cultural celebration

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, alongside former Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, and Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema, are set to be honored at the 2025 Etsako Club 81 Afenmai Cultural Day Celebration in Lagos.

    According to the event’s organizers, the celebration aims to revive the cultural heritage of the Etsako people in Edo North, highlighting their economic potential and attracting global tourism.

    Governor Okpebholo will serve as the Special Guest of Honour, while renowned constitutional lawyer, Professor Mike Ozekhome, will chair the event. Oshiomhole and Onyema will be recognized as Distinguished Guests of Honour, with traditional rulers from Afenmai land presiding as Royal Fathers of the day.

    President of Etsako Club 81 Worldwide, Sir Greg Otsu, told journalists in Lagos that the event, scheduled for Sunday, February 16, at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, will celebrate outstanding Afenmai sons and daughters as well as friends of the community who have excelled in their respective fields.

    Otsu said the theme ‘Reviving Our Afenmai Culture: A Call to Action’ reflects the needs not only for the Etsako people of Nigeria to look inward on how to turn their cultural heritage into money spinning ventures but also a message to other tribes in Nigeria.

    He said: “Our cultures are unique to us as different people from various backgrounds and history. We have for long either neglected these cultural values and potentials or allowed others from outside to negatively influence ours. We have seen how people of other tribes are turning their cultural heritage around and attracting tourists from across the globe, the Afenmai people have a lot of those to offer as well hence the need for this renaissance we are embarking upon.”

    He urged the people of the senatorial region to inculcate the values and culture of the afenmai land in their children wherever they find themselves around the world.

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    Otsu called on his kith and kin to rally around Etsako club 81 in its efforts to turn around the economic fortune of their fatherland adding that the prestigious club as over the 40 years of its existence carried our developmental project cutting across education, healthcare, empowerment and ICT in the different local government areas and communities in the region.

    “There is no better way to give back to your community and fatherland than to support the various ongoing initiatives and development activities being carried out across the senatorial district by Etsako Club 81. 

    “Our people deserve our support at this critical time in the history of our country and for us whom God has blessed, we cannot afford to miss this clarion call. I urge my people wherever they are across the world to remember their roots and support its development”, he told journalists.

  • 1,000 PDP groups back Anyanwu as National Secretary

    1,000 PDP groups back Anyanwu as National Secretary

    Over 1,000 groups within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have rallied behind Senator Samuel Anyanwu, reaffirming their support for him as the National Secretary of the party. This move comes amidst the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP.

    The PDP Youth Frontiers Network, representing progressive-minded youth groups within the party, made this known at a briefing in Abuja to address the crisis.

    They emphasised Anyanwu remains the legitimate National Secretary and any attempt to remove him and replace him with Sunday Udeh-Okoye, Deputy National Secretary, is unacceptable.

    In his address, national coordinator Hon. Henry Owolabi said PDP Governors’ Forum and the Board of Trustees (BoT) have overstepped their bounds by advising the National Working Committee (NWC) to swear in Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary.

    This decision, Owolabi argued, is at variance with the party’s constitution and ignores the fact that Senator Anyanwu was elected at a convention.

    The group also pointed out that Anyanwu has appealed the judgment at the Supreme Court and the status quo should be maintained pending the determination of the substantive application.

    They warned the actions of the Governors’ Forum and the BoT are “illegal, deliberately mischievous and uncomplimentary” to the party.

    The group also threatened to mobilise members and supporters to block judicial premises and take civil actions if the warning is ignored.

    Owolabi added: “We consider it an imperative and dire need of the hour that, as a party we must begin by building consensus and form once more a united, formidable and strong party, striving to preserve the PDP as a veritable platform for good governance in Nigeria and not continue in the path of self-interest, self-distraught, myopic divisiveness and pristine bickering which has not helped us but has become viable and fertile ground for the opposition to hatch inroads and poach into us destroying our very fabrics.

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    “We, therefore, join our voices and affirm unequivocal, unflinching and unwavering support and loyalty of our organization and that of all party supporters to the ideals of the party and by extension to the office of the National Secretary.

    “That Senator Anyanwu remains the National Secretary and the attempt to remove him and replace him with a judiciary-imposed secretary, without any Congress or legitimate procedural ratification of any organ of the party is hereby totally rejected.

    “We warn all detractors and perpetrators and indeed the Judiciary to steer clear of the internal workings of our great party and henceforth refrain from issuing illegal, baseless, porous, judgments that lack legal foundation and are immoral.

    “We are poised to mobilise all our members and teeming supporters to block all judicial premises and ensure civil actions that will lead to compliance with this warning if it is flaunted.”