On May 29, 2023, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah was sworn in as the Governor of Enugu State during his first inaugural address at the Michael Okpara Square. The ceremony took place at approximately 11:50 am, with Chief Judge Justice A. Ozoemena administering the oath of office. Prior to his inauguration, his Deputy, Barr Ifeanyi Ossai, also took the oath.
The event was graced by prominent personalities, including former Governor Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and his Deputy, Barr Cecelia Ezeilo, as well as former Governor Barr Sullivan Chime, former Governor of old Anambra State Senator Jim Nwobodo, Senator Chukwuka Utazi, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi (Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly), Roman Catholic Bishop Callistus Valentine Onaga, members of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, members of Ndi Nze N’ Ozo, and various other dignitaries. The gathering occurred under tight security measures.
In his speech, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah expressed his gratitude to the people of Enugu State for entrusting him with the position of governor. He acknowledged the contributions of those who supported his campaign and highlighted the significant role played by the immediate past governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyichukwu Ugwuanyi, in paving the way for their success.
Governor Mbah emphasized the rich historical heritage of Enugu State and its notable leaders, such as Dr. Michael Okpara, Nnamdi Azikiwe, and Akanu Ibiam, who demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities. He stressed the importance of leveraging this historical legacy to drive the state’s development and ensure that Enugu’s resources are utilized for the betterment of its people.
The governor shared his personal journey, recounting his struggles and determination to overcome adversities. Drawing inspiration from his own experiences, he pledged to empower the youth of Enugu State, equipping them with the necessary skills in e-commerce, fintech, and cyber-security to thrive in the emerging global landscape. Governor Mbah envisioned Enugu State as a hub of technological innovation, where young entrepreneurs could excel without having to leave the state.
Governor Mbah outlined his administration’s key priorities, focusing on economic growth, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, sanitation, and security. He pledged to revitalize the agriculture and agro-allied sectors, support small and medium-sized enterprises, attract foreign investments, and promote Enugu as a medical tourism destination. The governor also emphasized the importance of good governance, transparency, accountability, and collaboration with civil society organizations and the private sector.
To finance the ambitious plans, Governor Mbah outlined various strategies, including attracting investments, expanding the tax base, curbing financial leakages, and exploring diaspora bonds to secure remittances for productive purposes. He underscored his commitment to responsible financial management and announced the signing of the Citizens’ Charter, an executive order aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in public funds.
Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah concluded his address by expressing his determination to lead Enugu State into a future of prosperity and growth, harnessing the state’s potential and building on the spirit of its resilient people.