A Visionary Step Towards Enugu’s Transformation: Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor Lauds Governor Peter Mbah for Signing Executive Order Designating Urban Areas

 

By Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor J.P., FCAI, Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Matters

In a remarkable demonstration of visionary leadership and strategic foresight, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State recently signed an Executive Order designating several parts of the state, including Nkanu East, as urban areas. This decision has drawn widespread commendation, with Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Matters, hailing it as a pivotal and developmental move aimed at expanding the horizons of Enugu State's economic and infrastructural growth.

Rt. Hon. Nnajiofor described the action as "positive, developmental, and crucial towards the expansion of Enugu's hinterlands," emphasizing its significance in positioning the state for sustainable economic growth and investment opportunities. According to him, the designation of new urban areas will not only elevate the status of previously underserved regions but also unlock their vast economic potential, fostering a wave of prosperity that will benefit residents and attract investors.

The newly designated urban areas include the entire Enugu East, Enugu North, Enugu South, Udi, Nkanu West, Nkanu East, and Nsukka LGAs. Additionally, specific parts of Aninri, Awgu, Ezeagu, Igbo-Etiti, Igbo Eze North, Igbo Eze South, Isi-Uzo, Oji-River, Udenu, and Uzo-Uwani LGAs have also been designated as urban areas.

This achievement is a testament to Governor Mbah's commitment to creating an environment that fosters ease of doing business and promotes economic development. The new regulation complements the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), which was recently launched to streamline applications for land titles and administrative processes.

Rt. Hon. Nnajiofor stated that Governor Mbah’s Executive Order aligns with his administration's broader agenda of transformative governance. By designating areas such as Nkanu East as urban, the Governor has laid a foundation for planned development, infrastructural upgrades, and enhanced service delivery. This move reflects a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the hinterlands and a commitment to bridging the developmental gap between urban centers and rural areas.

Rt. Hon. Nnajiofor commended the Governor’s bold approach, noting that the urban designation is a vital step toward achieving inclusive growth. "This decision demonstrates Governor Mbah's resolve to prioritize all regions of Enugu State, ensuring that no area is left behind in the journey toward economic transformation," he remarked.

One of the key outcomes of this strategic reclassification will be the attraction of investments to the newly designated urban areas. By positioning regions like Nkanu East as urban centers, the state government has created an environment conducive to business growth, industrialization, and infrastructure development. Rt. Hon. Nnajiofor highlighted that the urban status would attract both local and foreign investors, spurring economic activities, creating jobs, and enhancing the living standards of residents. "The transformation of Nkanu East and other designated areas into urban hubs will generate significant economic and social benefits. It is a catalyst for private-sector investment, improved infrastructure, and enhanced quality of life for the people," he stated.

The Executive Order is particularly significant for hinterland regions like Nkanu East, which have historically faced challenges in accessing the benefits of urbanization. The elevation of these areas to urban status is expected to reverse years of underdevelopment, unlocking their economic and social potential. "This move symbolizes hope and progress for the people of Nkanu East and other areas. It ensures they are integrated into the mainstream of Enugu’s development agenda and provided with the opportunities they deserve," said Rt. Hon. Nnajiofor.

Rt. Hon. Nnajiofor also called on stakeholders, including local leaders, investors, and the private sector, to support Governor Mbah’s vision by contributing to the development of these newly designated urban areas. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving the transformative goals set by the administration.

"Governor Mbah’s leadership has provided us with a roadmap for progress. It is now up to all of us to play our part in realizing the full potential of these urban centers. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Enugu State," he concluded.

Governor Peter Mbah’s decision to designate parts of Enugu State, including Nkanu East, as urban areas is a monumental step towards the state’s transformation. Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor's commendation of this move underscores its significance in fostering economic growth, attracting investments, and improving the lives of residents. As Enugu State embarks on this new chapter, the strategic vision and commitment of Governor Mbah serve as a beacon of hope and progress, demonstrating that with purposeful leadership, every region can achieve its full potential.