National News

The Many Firsts of Governor Peter Mbah That Have Kept the Opposition at Bay

Published

4 months ago

July 1, 2026

Austine

‘When A Man’s Way Pleases The Lord, He Makes Even His Enemies At Peace With Him.’ – The Bible.

In politics, opposition parties are very visible and effective where and when governments fail. They gain momentum when promises remain unfulfilled, when projects are abandoned, and when citizens lose faith in those entrusted with power. Conversely, when governance is visible, measurable and impactful, the opposition often finds itself with little more than rhetoric. This is the political reality in Enugu State under Governor Peter Mbah.

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Mbah has pursued governance with an intensity that has surprised even his fiercest critics. Rather than settling into the familiar rhythm of political grandstanding, he chose the more difficult path of performance. In doing so, he has rewritten the script of governance in Enugu State and, perhaps inadvertently, deprived the opposition of the oxygen it needs to flourish.

What distinguishes the Mbah administration is not merely the number of projects executed but the unprecedented nature of many of them. Across virtually every sector, the administration has recorded “firsts” that have changed public expectations of government. These achievements have shifted political discourse from campaign slogans to measurable results.

The hallmark of Governor Mbah’s leadership is his refusal to think small. While many leaders are content to manage existing realities, he has consistently sought to redefine them. His declaration that Enugu’s economy should grow into a multi-billion-dollar economic powerhouse was initially greeted with skepticism. Yet, rather than retreat in the face of criticism, he began laying the foundations through deliberate investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, agriculture and enterprise.

One of the very innovative and outstanding firsts of the Peter Mbah Administration is the Inauguration of a State-of-the-art Centre For DNA Forensics and Criminal Investigation designed to strengthen crime detection and prosecution. This is in furtherance of the commitment of his watch to the protection of lives and property, which as it were is the primary responsibility of government.

Among the very revolutionary initiatives of his administration is the construction of Smart Green Schools in the 260 Political Wards in the State (That for emphasis means 260 Brand New Smart Green Schools). Never before has Enugu State embarked on such an ambitious educational transformation. These are not conventional schools; they are technology-driven learning centres designed to equip children with the digital skills required for the twenty-first century. They integrate classrooms, innovation laboratories, healthcare facilities, renewable energy and sporting infrastructure into a single ecosystem of learning.

This bold intervention sends a clear message: the future of Enugu will be built not on political patronage but on human capital.

Healthcare has witnessed an equally remarkable revolution. The administration’s decision to establish modern Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres in the 260 Wards reflects an understanding that quality healthcare should not be a privilege reserved for urban residents. Rural communities that have historically suffered neglect are now witnessing investments capable of bringing quality medical services closer to the people. It is a policy driven by equity, compassion and long-term planning.

Infrastructure remains another defining feature of the Mbah administration. Across the state, roads that had become symbols of neglect are being reconstructed, while entirely new road networks are opening communities to economic opportunities. Urban renewal projects are transforming the physical outlook of Enugu, while rural access roads are connecting farmers to markets and businesses to consumers.

What has particularly impressed many observers is not only the scale of these projects but the speed with which they are executed. Governor Mbah has introduced a governance culture where timelines matter and delivery is treated as a sacred obligation rather than a political convenience. In an environment where endless project commissioning ceremonies often replace actual completion, his emphasis on execution has become one of his greatest strengths.

Security has equally benefited from a bold departure from tradition. Rather than relying solely on conventional approaches, the administration has embraced technology as a central pillar of public safety. Modern surveillance systems, intelligent monitoring platforms, integrated command centres and rapid-response mechanisms have strengthened security coordination across the state. This proactive strategy has enhanced investor confidence and reinforced Enugu’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s safest destinations for business and leisure.

Economic development under Governor Mbah has also taken a different trajectory. Instead of depending almost exclusively on federal allocations, his administration has aggressively pursued investment, enterprise and wealth creation. Enugu has increasingly become the destination for commerce, innovation and industry. This shift from consumption to production reflects a deeper understanding of sustainable economic development.

Agriculture has similarly been repositioned. The administration is promoting commercial farming, mechanisation, agro-processing and value-chain development with the objective of making agriculture a profitable enterprise rather than merely a subsistence activity. Such policies are designed not only to improve food security but also to create jobs, stimulate exports and increase internally generated revenue.

What perhaps deserves even greater recognition is the administration’s culture of accountability. Governor Mbah has repeatedly insisted that government must be judged by outcomes rather than intentions. Projects are accompanied by implementation schedules, progress is monitored, and performance has become the defining currency of governance. This disciplined approach has restored confidence in public institutions and inspired optimism among many residents.

Naturally, no administration is beyond criticism. Democracy demands scrutiny, constructive engagement and accountability. Opposition parties therefore have an indispensable role to play in ensuring that governments remain responsive to the people. However, opposition politics is at its most effective when it is anchored on facts rather than speculation.

In Enugu today, visible development has significantly narrowed the space for purely political criticism. The presence of new schools, healthcare centres, roads, security infrastructure and investment initiatives has shifted public attention to tangible evidence. Citizens increasingly ask not who is speaking the loudest, but who is delivering the most.

This explains how political conversations in the State have evolved. Increasingly, debates revolve around completed projects, economic reforms and measurable achievements rather than personality clashes. That shift alone represents one of Governor Mbah’s greatest political accomplishments.

Perhaps his most enduring legacy will be the raising of public expectations. Enugu people have begun to demand speed, efficiency and excellence from government because they have witnessed what focused leadership can accomplish within a relatively short period. Future administrations, regardless of political affiliation, will inevitably be measured against these higher standards.

The significance of this cannot be overstated. Good governance has a multiplier effect. It not only delivers infrastructure; it reshapes political culture. It teaches citizens to evaluate leaders based on competence rather than sentiment, performance rather than promises, and vision rather than propaganda.

Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has demonstrated that leadership is ultimately judged by results. His many firsts, in education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, investment promotion, agriculture and institutional reform have combined to redefine governance in Enugu State.

It is these accomplishments that have largely kept the opposition on the defensive. When roads are being built, schools are rising across communities, healthcare facilities are expanding, investments are flowing in, and governance is visibly at work, political attacks lose much of their potency.

History often reserves its highest praise for leaders who change the trajectory of their societies. Governor Peter Mbah walks that path, and one conclusion appears increasingly difficult to dispute: by making performance the centrepiece of governance and recording a succession of unprecedented achievements, he has fundamentally altered both the developmental and political landscape of Enugu State.

In the end, the most formidable response to opposition is neither propaganda nor political confrontation. It is performance. And in Enugu today, Governor Peter Mbah’s many firsts continue to speak louder than words.

Indeed according to the Holy Book, The Bible, ‘When a Man’s Way Pleases The Lord, He Makes Even His Enemies At Peace With Him’, that is precisely why his fiercest political opponents have joined forces with him as he continues to MAKE A DIFFERENCE (MAD) in the tapestry of Enugu State, and need I say that through laudable and outstanding performance rather than propaganda Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has most emphatically declared that there is NO VACANCY in the Lion Building in Enugu State until 2031.

Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr.
A Good Governance Advocate. Leadership Trainer. And Publicist.

National News

NAOWA RAISES AWARENESS ON GIRL CHILD RIGHTS, MENTAL HEALTH, AND BREAST CANCER AT COMMAND SECONDARY SCHOOL OHAFIA

Published

3 days ago

November 2, 2026

Austine

The Nigeria Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) Ohafia chapter on Friday, 30 October 2026 through an awareness programme intensified efforts at promoting the rights, health and well-being of the girl child at Command Secondary School, Ohafia. The programme brought together officers, soldiers students, mothers, members of the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) and other participants to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child, World Mental Health Day and Breast Cancer Awareness Day.

In her opening remarks, The NAOWA Coordinator Ohafia chapter, Dr Shafa’atu Dikko who was represented by
Mrs Ruth Zubairu, commended the initiative aimed at improving the welfare and development of the girl child. She restated the importance of collective efforts in creating a society where girls are protected, educated and empowered to realise their full potential.

The theme of the programme *”End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,”* provided an important platform for learning, interaction and awareness, equipping participants with relevant knowledge on the protection of girls’ rights, the dangers of child marriage, breast cancer prevention and mental health management.

The initiative further reinforced NAOWA’s commitment to promoting the welfare of women and children through advocacy, education and community engagement, while encouraging students to make informed decisions about their health, rights and future.

Highlights of the event included an awareness walk, lectures, interactive sessions, and group photographs.

*MAZINHO ATTAH*
Captain
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
14 Brigade Nigerian Army
Ohafia, Abia State
02 November 2026

National News

ALM Leadership Crisis: Emeka Adiele Breaks Silence, Recounts Financial Dealings With Sam Nwogu, Rejects Inducement Allegations

Published

6 days ago

October 30, 2026

Austine

The President of the Asa Liberation Movement (ALM), Hon. Emeka Adiele, has dismissed allegations of demanding financial inducement from Chief Sam Nwogu’s Campaign Organisation, describing the claims as false, misleading and an attempt to discredit his person and undermine the integrity of the movement.

Adiele, in a detailed statement titled “My Response to Chief Sam Nwogu’s Campaign Media Team and Setting the Record Straight for Future Purposes,” maintained that he never demanded money from the campaign organisation, insisting that the financial dealings between both parties were initiated by Chief Nwogu.

The ALM president explained that Chief Nwogu voluntarily offered to support the movement’s meetings beginning in September 2026, adding that the politician provided financial assistance on three occasions: twice in September and once in October.

He further alleged that during one of Nwogu’s meetings with the ALM leadership, the politician offered ₦5 million and a Sienna bus in what he described as an attempt to influence the movement’s leadership. According to him, the offer was rejected by him and other stakeholders to protect the independence of the organisation.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the movement’s mock election, Adiele claimed that Nwogu personally contacted him on the eve of the exercise and offered ₦500,000 to influence its outcome.

He said he rejected the offer and advised Nwogu to seek support through the recognised process of canvassing votes among stakeholders.

Adiele further alleged that in the early hours of Saturday, October 24, 2026, a stakeholder, Charles Samankwe, informed him that Nwogu had sent ₦1 million to secure victory in the exercise.

He maintained that he did not interfere with the process, stressing that every stakeholder was free to support their preferred candidate.

The ALM president disclosed that Nwogu eventually lost the mock election to Engr. Adinigwe Ugochukwu Nwoke, suggesting that the outcome may have contributed to the subsequent disagreement between the politician and the movement’s leadership.

On another financial transaction, Adiele explained that during a consultation visit by Nwogu and Prince Ikonne, the former allegedly sent ₦1.7 million, comprising ₦700,000 for preparations and ₦1 million for members’ transportation.

He added that Prince Ikonne subsequently contributed another ₦1 million for transportation, bringing the total transportation support to ₦2 million, which he said was distributed among members who attended the meeting.

Adiele also recounted an earlier meeting with Nwogu in Port Harcourt, alleging that Charles Samankwe had requested consultation fees before political discussions could commence. He said money was subsequently handed to him by Samankwe, who identified it as the consultation fee requested from Nwogu.

Tracing the history of his relationship with the politician, Adiele disclosed that he first encountered Nwogu in March 2022 through Hon. Kingsley Enyite, who, according to him, requested that ALM’s platform be made available to help improve Nwogu’s political image.

He consequently rejected suggestions that Nwogu single-handedly established or sustained the Asa Liberation Movement, describing such claims as a distortion of the organisation’s history.

The ALM president also dismissed reports that Nwogu was appointed Life Patron of the movement, challenging those making the claim to produce an official appointment letter, resolution or any document issued by the recognised leadership of the organisation.

According to him, ALM operates as an organised political pressure group with established structures and leadership, rather than an individual’s personal organisation.

Adiele maintained that his account represented his personal experience and dealings with Nwogu, insisting that he had no reason to misrepresent the circumstances surrounding their relationship.

He challenged Nwogu and his campaign media team to publicly present any evidence capable of contradicting his account.

The ALM president further warned that he would consider legal action against individuals responsible for publishing allegations he considers damaging to his reputation. He also indicated his willingness to make further disclosures about the political history of Ukwa land from 2007 to date if the controversy persists.

He concluded by reaffirming his position as the President of the Asa Liberation Movement, insisting that the organisation’s independence and institutional integrity must be protected.

National News

CREDICORP Unveils SPARK Credit Scheme in Abia, Targets Over 1,000 Beneficiaries

Published

1 week ago

October 28, 2026

Austine

The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), a Federal Government-backed development finance institution, has showcased consumer credit opportunities for more than 1,000 Abians, while piloting its USSD-based SPARK credit product to help Nigerians access credit and establish formal credit histories.

The event, held at the Prime Time Event Centre in Aba, brought together representatives of the Abia State Government, CREDICORP, the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), prospective beneficiaries, financial institutions and local entrepreneurs

The showcase featured credit opportunities for market women, traders, young Nigerians and transport operators, including access to tricycles, vehicles and other productive assets through flexible credit arrangements.

A major highlight was the pilot of SPARK, an entry-level credit product designed to make credit more accessible, particularly to first-time borrowers, through basic mobile phones without requiring smartphones or internet connectivity.

The product is expected to help beneficiaries build formal credit histories through responsible borrowing and timely repayment, potentially opening doors to wider financial opportunities.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CREDICORP, Engr. Uzoma Nwagba, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and expressed appreciation to the Corporation’s executive directors for their support in advancing its mandate.

Nwagba, who highlighted the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Aba residents, said his upbringing in the commercial city had strengthened his appreciation of the ingenuity of its people.

He explained that many entrepreneurs, including shoemakers, traders and other small-business owners, had struggled to expand their businesses because of inadequate access to funding.

According to him, the initiative was designed to bridge that gap by bringing affordable consumer credit closer to the people and helping them acquire the resources needed to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

He urged prospective beneficiaries to take advantage of the available credit facilities, stressing that access to finance could help them expand their businesses, acquire productive assets and increase their earning capacity.

Nwagba also reiterated that consumer credit should not be reserved for a privileged few but should be accessible to working Nigerians seeking opportunities to improve their economic circumstances.

The CREDICORP chief executive said the initiative reflected the Corporation’s commitment to translating the Federal Government’s consumer credit policy into practical benefits for ordinary Nigerians.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and a member of the CREDICORP Board, Dr. Armstrong Ume Takang, commended President Tinubu for supporting the expansion of consumer credit access in Nigeria.

Takang said the initiative would create opportunities for beneficiaries to strengthen their businesses, acquire essential assets and improve their financial circumstances.

He encouraged prospective beneficiaries to take advantage of the programme responsibly, noting that access to credit could help entrepreneurs scale their businesses, increase productivity and contribute to economic growth.

The initiative also aligns with efforts to support local manufacturers by connecting consumers with locally produced goods through affordable financing arrangements.

Under CREDICORP’s S.C.A.L.E. initiative, which stands for Securing Consumer Access for Local Enterprises, eligible consumers can access locally assembled tricycles and other products through credit arrangements.

The programme is designed to stimulate demand for Nigerian-made products, support domestic enterprises and encourage job creation.

Prospective beneficiaries were also informed about opportunities to acquire vehicles and repay the cost gradually under applicable financing arrangements.

Representing Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, at the event, the Governor’s Principal Secretary and Chief Strategic Officer, Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, commended CREDICORP for bringing the initiative to Aba.

Mba-Uzoukwu described Aba as a major economic centre whose residents are known for their resilience, creativity and entrepreneurial drive.

He said the state government was working to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, adding that improved infrastructure and reliable electricity supply were essential to increasing productivity and expanding economic opportunities.

According to him, the activation of Geometric Power under the Otti administration was part of efforts to address electricity challenges affecting Aba and its surrounding communities.

He further disclosed that the state government’s plan was to increase Geometric Power’s capacity from its current 141 megawatts to 500 megawatts to meet rising electricity demand in Abia and neighbouring areas.

Mba-Uzoukwu said the proposed expansion would support businesses, improve productivity and contribute to economic growth.

He added that Governor Otti remained committed to addressing infrastructure gaps and improving the business environment, particularly in Aba, which serves as the commercial hub of the state.

The governor’s representative expressed optimism that initiatives such as CREDICORP would complement the state’s efforts by providing entrepreneurs with access to financing needed to expand their operations.

Earlier in her opening remarks, CREDICORP Executive Director Aisha Abdullahi said Aba was widely associated with resilience, creativity, enterprise and hard work, but noted that financial constraints had prevented many entrepreneurs from fully realising their potential.

She explained that CREDICORP was working to bridge the financing gap by providing access to affordable credit that could help individuals and businesses expand their activities.

Abdullahi encouraged prospective beneficiaries to pay attention to the available financing options and carefully select the products best suited to their needs and repayment capacity.

She emphasised the importance of responsible borrowing, noting that credit should be used to support productive activities and improve livelihoods.

Also speaking, CREDICORP’s Executive Director, Olanike Kolawole, highlighted the Corporation’s commitment to supporting local manufacturers and expanding access to credit across the country.

Kolawole said the initiative was intended to make life easier for Nigerians by providing financing opportunities not only in the South-East but across the federation.

She explained that connecting consumers to locally manufactured goods through credit would help support domestic production while giving individuals access to products they might otherwise find difficult to purchase outright.

A representative of CREDICORP’s Legal Department, Viola Lekwauwa, educated participants on the legal implications of consumer credit and the rights of individuals accessing credit facilities.

Lekwauwa explained that lenders were expected to provide borrowers with clear information about the terms of their credit agreements, including the amount being borrowed, applicable interest rates, repayment schedules and other relevant conditions.

She stressed that prospective borrowers should understand the terms of an agreement before accepting a credit facility and should not be coerced into taking credit they did not want.

She also highlighted the importance of protecting borrowers’ personal information, explaining that data collected during the credit application process should be handled appropriately and used for the purposes for which it was obtained.

Lekwauwa urged applicants to provide accurate information when seeking credit and to develop clear repayment plans before committing themselves to any financial obligation.

Using the example of a transport operator acquiring a tricycle to generate income, she explained that borrowers should ensure that the assets or activities financed by credit could support their repayment plans.

She reminded participants that consumer credit was not free money and that borrowers had an obligation to repay their loans within the agreed period.

According to her, responsible borrowing and a clear understanding of credit terms were essential to ensuring that consumer credit improved people’s lives rather than creating additional financial difficulties.

The showcase also featured YouthCred, a CREDICORP initiative designed to connect eligible young Nigerians, including serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, with affordable credit opportunities.

The programme seeks to support young people’s financial journeys while encouraging responsible borrowing and the development of sound credit histories.

Through its various initiatives, CREDICORP aims to make consumer credit more accessible to Nigerians who need financing for essential purchases, productive assets and other eligible needs.

The event forms part of the Corporation’s wider engagements across the country, following similar activities in Lagos, Abuja, Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Rivers and Adamawa states.

CREDICORP has reported that it has enabled more than ₦53.5 billion in consumer credit for over 351,000 Nigerians since commencing operations, with women accounting for approximately 59 per cent of beneficiaries.

Established under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Corporation is working towards the Federal Government’s objective of expanding consumer credit access to at least 50 per cent of working Nigerians by 2030.

The Aba showcase highlighted the potential of consumer credit to support traders, young people and transport operators while strengthening local production and enterprise development.

By combining affordable financing, borrower education and support for Nigerian manufacturers, CREDICORP seeks to turn consumer credit into a practical tool for improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities.