Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has officially sworn in the 17 Local Government Council chairmen and their deputies, who were elected during the local council elections on September 21.
This ceremony marks a significant step in local governance, as these leaders are now tasked with addressing the immediate needs of their communities.
During the inauguration yesterday, Governor Mbah stressed the importance of the chairmen relocating to their local areas without delay.
He highlighted that the previous norm of council chairmen living in urban centers far removed from the communities they serve is no longer acceptable.
“You must be present among your people to understand their challenges and serve them effectively,” he declared.
Mbah urged the new chairmen to quickly implement projects that focus on the needs of the people. He emphasized the necessity for them to engage with his administration’s initiatives, such as the Smart Green School program and various rural infrastructure projects.
These initiatives aim to not only improve education and living conditions but also create opportunities for local youth. The governor pointed out that empowering the younger generation is crucial for building a safer and more prosperous future in Enugu.
“It’s time to act on the promises you made to the people. They want to know how and when you will address the issues that have hindered their progress,” Mbah stated.
He reminded the chairmen that their effectiveness would be measured by their ability to deliver tangible results that improve the lives of residents.
In addition to focusing on development projects, Mbah emphasized the importance of security in the state. He pointed out that no meaningful development can occur in an environment plagued by crime and insecurity.
“We will not tolerate crime and insecurity in Enugu State. If you want to attract businesses and investments to your areas, peace and security are essential,” he warned.
The governor called upon the chairmen to play an active role in complementing the state’s efforts to combat crime and maintain public safety.
The newly inaugurated officials have a crucial role to play in ensuring that their local governments can attract investments and foster economic growth.
Mbah’s administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for businesses, which will, in turn, generate employment opportunities for the youth.
The governor believes that with collective efforts, the state can overcome the challenges that have hindered its progress for years.
In response to the governor’s address, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, the Chairman of Nkanu East LGA, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
He assured his colleagues and the governor that they would work diligently to implement the development programs at the grassroots level.
“We are ready to take the governor’s vision and translate it into action that will benefit our communities,” Edeh said, reflecting the optimism shared among the newly elected officials.
