Why we honoured Mbah, by Igbo Books of Records

The Executive Officer and Editor-in-Chief of the Igbo Books of Records, Nze Sam Nwanze, has explained that the decision to honour Peter Mbah with the 2025 Best Southeast Governor Award was based on verifiable achievements in governance, economic growth, and infrastructure transformation.

Speaking at the award presentation ceremony organised by the Hall of Igbo Achievers Foundation in Enugu, Nwanze said the recognition aligns with the mandate of the Igbo Books of Records to identify and document excellence across Igboland.

According to him, the Mbah administration’s over 450 per cent growth in internally generated revenue within two years stands out as a major milestone, particularly as it was achieved without imposing excessive tax burdens on citizens.

“This reflects innovation, transparency, and a deliberate effort to block leakages while embracing technology in governance,” Nwanze said.

He noted that the government’s allocation of over 80 per cent of its budget to capital expenditure has turned Enugu into one of the largest construction sites in Nigeria, with massive investments in road infrastructure spanning urban, rural, and intercity areas.

Nwanze also highlighted the construction of modern transport terminals at Holy Ghost, Abakpa, and Garriki, as well as the introduction of CNG-powered mass transit and expansion of Enugu Air, describing them as strategic moves to boost connectivity and economic activity.

He commended the administration’s education reforms, particularly the establishment of Smart Green Schools in all 260 electoral wards, aimed at equipping children with digital and global competencies.

In healthcare, he cited the rollout of primary health centres across wards and the ongoing construction of a 300-bed specialist hospital as bold steps toward improving access to quality medical care.

On security, Nwanze pointed to a significant decline in violent crime, attributing it to the government’s technology-driven approach and firm stance against criminal activities, which he said has restored investor confidence in the state.

“Security is fundamental to development, and Enugu today stands out as one of the safest states in Nigeria,” he added.

He further noted that ongoing efforts in water supply, agriculture, and the development of the New Enugu Smart City reinforce the administration’s commitment to sustainable growth.

Explaining the origin of the award, Nwanze said the Hall of Igbo Achievers Foundation was conceived by accomplished journalists of Igbo extraction who have reached the peak of their careers, while the Igbo Books of Records serves as a compendium of Igbo heritage, culture, and outstanding achievements.

“The honour is a reflection of our resolve to celebrate impactful leadership and inspire a new generation of achievers,” he said.

Meanwhile, Governor Mbah, represented at the event by the state commissioner for human development and poverty eradication, Prof. Benedette Okolie, said the achievements recorded by his administration were the result of deliberate reforms focused on efficiency, innovation, and service delivery.

He reiterated that the surge in internally generated revenue was driven by plugging leakages and deploying digital systems, rather than introducing new taxes.

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Mbah noted that the improved revenue profile has enabled the state to channel the bulk of its resources into capital projects, transforming infrastructure and stimulating economic growth.

He added that the extensive road network development has opened up communities, enhanced commerce, and improved the quality of life for residents.

The governor further stated that the establishment of modern transport terminals, the CNG mass transit programme, and the expansion of Enugu Air are redefining mobility within and beyond the South-East.

In education, he emphasised that the Smart Green Schools initiative would prepare children with 21st-century skills to compete globally, while in healthcare, the administration is building a system that guarantees accessible and quality services for all.

Mbah also stressed that security has received priority attention, noting that violent crime has reduced drastically, with Mondays restored as productive days and investors returning to the state.

He added that the revival of water infrastructure, expansion of agriculture and agro-allied industries, as well as the development of the New Enugu Smart City, are part of a broader vision to position Enugu as a hub for investment, tourism, and sustainable development.

The governor appreciated the organisers for the recognition, stating that the award would serve as both motivation and a challenge to sustain reforms and deliver more dividends of democracy.

He also called on leaders in the South-East to embrace healthy competition, stressing that collective efforts would unlock the region’s full economic potential and strengthen its position in Nigeria and beyond.