Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
Francis Nwifuru, the governor of Ebonyi State, celebrated two years in office yesterday, reaffirming his commitment to transformational leadership for the people of Ebonyi.
During the anniversary celebration held at Centenary City, Governor Nwifuru delivered a stirring address that highlighted his administration’s ambitious achievements while reiterating his dedication to visionary leadership and transformational governance in Ebonyi State.
The governor emphasized the progress made in critical sectors and expressed his administration’s determination to uplift the lives of Ebonyians, positioning the state as a model of sustainable development in Nigeria.
Nwifuru outlined several flagship projects that have redefined the urban and rural landscapes of the state. Notably, he discussed the groundbreaking construction of the VANCO Tunnel and Flyovers in Abakaliki—a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to ease traffic congestion, enhance safety, and transform the capital city into a hub for business and leisure.
“From the outset, I pledged to elevate the standard of living for all Ebonyians through infrastructure and human capital development. Today, these promises are not just plans; they are realities across works, health, education, transportation, security, and agriculture,” Nwifuru said.
He highlighted the rehabilitation of over 200 kilometres of urban roads and the construction of rural feeder roads and bridges, all aimed at unlocking economic potential and enhancing connectivity. In the health sector, the governor detailed initiatives such as the provision of free maternal care, the procurement of ambulances, and comprehensive upgrades to general hospitals statewide.
In education, Ebonyi has taken a pioneering stance by establishing the University of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Oferekpe Agbaja Izzi and the University of Aeronautics Engineering at Ezza. These institutions aim to produce globally competitive professionals and support the emerging digital and aviation economies.
Governor Nwifuru also announced the largest scholarship program in the state’s history, benefitting over 1,000 Ebonyians pursuing advanced studies globally. Additionally, a comprehensive empowerment program has supported more than 5,000 residents with capital injections ranging from N1 million to N100 million to help them grow their businesses and create jobs.
The governor’s security initiatives focus on equipping agencies with modern vehicles and tools to combat crime, while community engagement efforts have quelled violence in troubled areas such as Effium, Abaomege, and Ishinkwo.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the administration’s vision, with modern equipment provided to cooperatives, the establishment of the Ebonyi Feed Mill, and the revival of the Nkaliki Hatchery, which have created thousands of jobs and reinforced the state’s food security.
The state’s water and sanitation programs have seen the revival of four dormant water schemes, ensuring that households and communities have access to clean, safe water.
Governor Nwifuru also discussed the industrial and economic prospects being realized through the reactivation of the Waste-to-Wealth Plant and the commencement of the Ebonyi State Industrial City project, which is poised to attract investors and catalyze local manufacturing.
“Leadership is about listening, helping, and guiding—translating vision into tangible outcomes,” he stated, emphasizing a governance style rooted in humility and service to the people. In a moment of reflection, the governor also issued a heartfelt apology for any shortcomings in his leadership, seeking forgiveness and vowing to improve.
Concluding the address with a prayer and a call for unity, Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accelerating the pace of progress and ensuring that the coming years deliver even greater dividends of democracy to all Ebonyians.