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| A collage showcasing Enugu State's transformation: Ngwo Pine Forest, Awhum Waterfalls, the new Enugu Transport Terminal, and Enugu Air aircraft, as part of Governor Peter Mbah’s infrastructure agenda. |
From the introduction of the Enugu Air service and a fleet of compressed natural gas (CNG) mass transit buses to the total overhaul of key sports and tourism sites, Governor Mbah’s administration is taking bold steps to reposition Enugu as a hub of economic, cultural, and recreational activity in the Southeast and beyond.
Revolutionizing Transport: Enugu Air and CNG Mass Transit Programme Set for Launch
One of the flagship achievements
One of the Peter Mbah administration is the creation of Enugu Air, a state-owned airline that will kick off operations with three aircraft. According to the Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, two of the aircraft are already on the ground, while the third is expected by the end of May 2025. Commercial flights are set to begin before the administration marks its second year in office.
This aviation breakthrough will significantly ease air travel to and from Enugu, positioning the state as a new regional air transport hub in Nigeria.
In parallel, the government is rolling out a comprehensive CNG-powered mass transit program. Fifty modern buses are currently stationed at Okpara Square, and another 50 are expected to join them in the coming weeks. By the end of May 2025, all 100 buses will begin commercial operations, offering residents and visitors an eco-friendly and cost-effective means of commuting across the state.
Additionally, five state-of-the-art transport terminals—two at Holy Ghost and one each at Gariki, Abakpa, and Nsukka—have been constructed from scratch. These terminals will serve as central nodes for the transport network and will be commissioned for public use by the end of May 2025.
Enugu Smart Transport Programme and Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Plant
In line with global sustainability trends, the Enugu State Government is planning the rollout of a Smart Transport Programme within the next 150 days. This initiative includes the deployment of over 2,000 electric vehicles across the state, aimed at reducing carbon emissions, lowering transport costs, and improving mobility.
To support this transformation, the state also plans to attract an electric and CNG automotive manufacturing plant to Enugu. This move is expected to create thousands of jobs and establish Enugu as a leader in green transportation technology in Nigeria.
Tourism Transformation: Developing Enugu’s Natural and Cultural Assets
Another cornerstone of the Mbah administration's development strategy is the phased revitalization of Enugu State’s tourism sector. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, revealed that significant funds have been earmarked for developing several iconic tourist attractions, some of which will feature unique innovations seen for the first time in Nigeria.
Among the first-phase projects is the Awhum Waterfall, which will be enhanced with a canopy walkway and a boardwalk designed to preserve the surrounding ecosystem. Also in the pipeline is the development of the Nsude Pyramid, which will host the longest canopy walkway in Nigeria at approximately 600 meters, making it the first of its kind in the Southeast.
The Ngwo Pine Forest will feature Nigeria’s first zipline—measuring about 300 meters—alongside leisure facilities like a large rotunda and a viewing platform. The Cross of Hope at Okpatu is another ambitious project. It will be situated 580 meters above sea level, with a monumental cross structure standing 50 meters tall and equipped with 15 floors and an elevator.
Furthermore, the Akwuke/Atakkwu Waterpark and Ovu Lake Golf and Resort in Akpawfu are part of the tourism facelift. These recreational centers will be complemented with experience centers, food courts, and renewable energy infrastructure to enhance visitor experience and sustainability.
To ensure smooth access to these destinations, the state is set to roll out tour buses, further boosting the appeal of tourism in Enugu.
Sports Development: Preparing for the National Sports Festival Enugu 2026
As Enugu prepares to host the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival in 2026, preparations are in full swing to upgrade critical sports infrastructure. Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu confirmed that the state government has mandated the full renovation of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and the Awgu Games Village starting in June 2025.
These facilities will be transformed into world-class arenas capable of accommodating thousands of athletes and spectators while also serving as long-term assets for youth development and sports tourism in Enugu. Lagos Government Disburses N978.62 Million in Insurance Benefits to Families of 510 Deceased Public Servants
Empowering Youth Through Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Beyond physical infrastructure, the Mbah administration is also investing in youth empowerment. A state-of-the-art Animation Lab is ready for commissioning and will serve as a hub for young creatives interested in digital arts, animation, and media production.
Ekweremadu also disclosed that over 2,100 young people trained in December 2024 will receive startup support on International Youth Day, August 12, 2025. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to equipping Enugu’s youth with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
A Vision of a Transformed Enugu
The ongoing projects under Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership reflect a bold, comprehensive vision to modernize Enugu State across multiple sectors. From the skies to the streets and forests to stadiums, Enugu is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation that promises long-term benefits for residents, investors, and visitors alike.
By focusing on sustainable transportation, cultural tourism, youth innovation, and sports development, the state is not just building infrastructure—it is building a future.
As these transformative projects unfold, Enugu is poised to emerge as a shining example of what visionary governance can achieve in Nigeria.
By Primelineinfo
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