Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State is charting an ambitious course to revolutionize the state’s economy and infrastructure. Central to his vision is the exponential growth of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), aiming to surpass the ₦600 billion target for 2025. This substantial increase is intended to fund transformative development projects across various sectors.
Truth Live News can confirm that upon assuming office, Governor Mbah set a bold objective to elevate Enugu’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. This target necessitates a 27% compounded annual growth rate, a goal met with skepticism by some. However, the administration’s focus on reducing dependency on federal allocations and enhancing domestic revenue mobilization has been pivotal. Recent reports indicate that strategic economic and financial inclusion policies have propelled the state’s IGR from ₦30 billion annually to approximately ₦500 billion, marking a remarkable 1,000% increase.
At the time, the trending analysis did not support such a growth level.
“Achieving this target requires a 27 per cent compounded annual growth rate, and some questioned how it could be realised,” he said.
He emphasised that in spite of the skepticism, his government recognised the need to shift focus away from federal allocations and instead mobilise domestic revenue.
“When we took over, the state’s IGR was about ₦25 billion. This year, our projected IGR is ₦600 billion, and based on the numbers we are seeing, we are not only going to meet this target but surpass it.
“This revenue growth is what enables us to make significant interventions across all sectors, from education to healthcare and beyond,” he stated.
In alignment with his economic aspirations, Governor Mbah presented a historic ₦971 billion budget for the 2025 fiscal year, aptly titled the “Budget of Exponential Growth and Inclusive Prosperity.” This budget allocates ₦837.9 billion (86%) to capital expenditure, revealing a commitment to long-term developmental projects, while ₦133.1 billion (14%) is designated for recurrent expenditure.
Education: The administration is investing in Centers of Experiential Learning to train educators in modern teaching methodologies. Additionally, model secondary schools are being developed across all 17 local government areas, and technical schools are undergoing reconstruction to build a competent technical workforce.
Healthcare: Construction of 260 Type II primary health centers is underway, alongside the completion of the Enugu International Hospital. These facilities aim to provide comprehensive medical services, including surgical, kidney, cardiac, gynecological, and obstetric care.
Infrastructure: The state has embarked on building an independent power grid, with regulatory powers transferred to the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission. Collaborations with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company are in place to develop a power sector that could serve as a national model.
Security: Recognizing the importance of safety for economic growth, the administration established the Distress Response Squad (DRS). Investments include an extensive CCTV network with AI-enabled cameras, a state-of-the-art command and control center, over 100 patrol vehicles equipped with advanced surveillance technology, and comprehensive equipment for personnel. These measures have significantly enhanced security across the state.
Governor Mbah has pledged diligent implementation of the 2025 budget to achieve the envisioned exponential economic growth and inclusive prosperity. This commitment reflects a strategic and holistic approach to governance, aiming to position Enugu State as a leading economic powerhouse in Nigeria.
Through these comprehensive initiatives, Governor Peter Mbah is steadfast in his mission to transform Enugu State, fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for its residents.