OSUOFIA @ 70 This is a toast to one of Enugu’s precious gifts to the world, Nkem Owo, aka Osuofia. Nkem Owoh has no doubt distinguished himself as an icon of Nollywood, who has brought fun, laughter, and excitement to millions of homes across the world through his mastery of his art as a thespian and entertainer. Indeed, we owe the success that Nollywood has become to the sacrifice, resilience, commitment, and regenerative powers of Nkem and his like. Nkem, we celebrate you and thank you immensely for putting Enugu State and Nigeria on the global screens and pray God to keep you in good health for many more years. People, join me and Ndi Enugu in wishing inimitable Nkem Owo a happy 70th birthday.

Today, I signed into law the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (Establishment and Consolidation of Revenue Administration) Law, 2025, a legislation that creates a one-stop shop for taxation in Enugu State. This is a major milestone in our commitment to ending multiple taxation, improving the Ease of Doing Business, and making Enugu the preferred destination for investment. For a long time, business owners, traders, and the organised private sector have struggled with multiple tax collectors who issue different receipts and demand payments from various directions. That ends today. With this new law, we now have a one-stop shop for all tax payments in Enugu. There will be a single collection point, and taxpayers will receive the appropriate receipt of payment—no more harassment or uncertainty over who is authorised to collect revenue. This reform also ensures that state and local government revenues are properly consolidated. Just like with land charges and VAT, taxation will be collected centrally and split among the agencies and tiers of government. Furthermore, the Enugu State Inland Revenue Service is now autonomous. This means it can set revenue targets, operate professionally, and function efficiently without bureaucratic drawbacks. It also means better transparency, accountability, and service delivery. It is important to clarify that our success in increasing the state’s internally generated revenue has not come from raising taxes but from widening the tax net, plugging leakages, and leveraging technology. We have ensured that all payments are properly captured and remitted to government coffers, ending revenue losses to cash transactions. I appreciate the Enugu State House of Assembly for their collaboration and swift action in passing this bill. Their dedication to the progress of our state is commendable. Tomorrow is here!

It was my pleasure to host the Consul General of the Royal Danish Embassy in Nigeria, Jette Bjerrum, and a delegation of Danish government and business representatives today at Government House, Enugu. Denmark sees the potential in our Smart Schools, agricultural value chains, waste-to-energy initiatives, logistics, international airport expansion, and healthcare projects. Their enthusiasm for our vision aligns with our commitment to de-risking investments, creating a business-friendly environment, and growing our economy sevenfold to $30 billion in the next six years. We have already taken a bold step by partnering with the Danish company ODK Group to procure tractors, with plans for a local assembly plant here in Enugu. But this is just the beginning. With over 300,000 hectares secured in our landbank and the rollout of our Farm Estate initiative across all 260 electoral wards, agriculture remains the lifeblood of our economy, contributing 40% to our GDP. Beyond crop production, we have secured about $20 million for investment in livestock. We are also developing a modern ranch capable of housing over 20,000 cows. Our Special Agro-Processing Zones will further ensure that manufacturers can operate seamlessly with access to essential infrastructure. We take pride in Denmark’s recognition of Enugu as a rapidly developing land of opportunity. We welcome more investors who share our commitment to accountability, inclusivity, and innovation. Tomorrow is Here!

I had the privilege of engaging with over 90 multinational corporations at the Second Existing Foreign Direct Investors Roundtable at the Aso Presidential Villa, Abuja. It was an opportunity to showcase Enugu’s boundless investment opportunities and reinforce our commitment to de-risking investments and ensuring bountiful returns. For the first time, Enugu has been listed among the few states that multinationals are more likely to expand to, according to a survey presented by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Committee (PEBEC). This recognition underscores our deliberate efforts to transform Enugu into a premier destination for investment, business, tourism, and living. I assured our prospective investors that Enugu is not just open for business, but ready to work with them every step of the way. We have curated bankable projects across key sectors—agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, mineral resources, ICT, logistics, aviation, real estate, and more. Investors coming to Enugu will find fully developed feasibility studies that ease their decision-making and project execution. Ease of Doing Business remains central to our agenda. The Enugu State Investment Development Authority serves as a one-stop shop for regulatory approvals, and with our Enugu State Geographic Information System Services (ENGIS), title documents are processed within 72 hours. We have also invested massively in infrastructure and security to support business growth. Our ambition remains to grow Enugu’s economy sevenfold to $30 billion in the next six years. The growth Nigeria seeks will happen from the sub-nationals, and Enugu is leading the way. To our global partners, Enugu is the place to be. We are ready to work with you to create a structure that makes business sense. The time to invest is now. Tomorrow is here!

Pleased to receive the popular Kcee @iam_kcee, a talented artiste who has made remarkable impact, from promoting our rich culture to delivering premium entertainment that resonates far and wide. He informed me of his upcoming concert and charity programme, scheduled to hold on Easter Sunday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. Our administration remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting initiatives that nurture talent and uplift our communities. We are proud to support Kcee in ensuring the success of his event.

I had the pleasure of receiving our very own @phynofino, a renowned rapper, singer, and songwriter who was born and raised on the soil of Enugu. We had a fruitful discussion about his upcoming music concert, Phyno Fest, in Enugu later in November this year. As a government, we are dedicated to supporting and promoting talents that celebrate our culture and position Enugu State on the global stage. In line with this commitment, we will fully support Phyno to ensure the success of this much-anticipated event.

Delighted to receive the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, and her team as they flagged off the distribution of emergency intervention items to the victims of the devastating tanker fire incident that occurred on Saturday at Ugwu Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha expressway. While we continue to mourn the lives lost and support the survivors, it is important to address the root cause of such disasters. As I have reiterated, the enforcement of anti-spill locks on fuel tankers carrying inflammable products must be prioritised. This measure will significantly reduce the risk of spills that ignite and lead to avoidable tragedies. I once again call on law enforcement agencies, particularly the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), to ensure the strict enforcement of this safety requirement across the country. In the meantime, our administration is fully committed to providing the necessary care and support to those affected by the tragic incident. We are bearing the medical bills of all survivors currently receiving treatment at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu; the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla; and the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Hospital, Park Lane. I deeply appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and NEMA for their swift response, empathy, and partnership during this challenging time. The relief materials provided will go a long way in bringing succour to the affected families, and we remain grateful for this demonstration of federal and sub-national collaboration.

I received the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, and the Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Thomas Schlesinger, on a working visit to Enugu State, yesterday. Their visit underscores the remarkable progress we are making in creating a sustainable and business-friendly environment for investors. The minister commended our modest efforts in transforming Enugu into a hub of investment and development, affirming that our state is firmly on the right path. They inspected several impactful projects, including the European Business Park and the Austrian Eco-Social Market Economy Programme at Godfrey Okoye University, which equip young entrepreneurs with globally competitive skills. They also visited the NG-Cares Basic Services Projects at Enugu-Ngwo, Amagu Akaegbe Ugwu, and Obeagu-Uno water schemes, as well as the 9th Mile waterworks, which we delivered in just 180 days in office. The minister was particularly impressed by our prudent utilisation of NG-Cares funds, recognising Enugu as one of the top-performing states in the programme. The Austrian Ambassador noted our administration's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and described Enugu as an ideal destination for investment, innovation, and growth. His sentiments reaffirm our goal of positioning Enugu as a gateway to shared prosperity through impactful partnerships. Our development model is grassroots-based, focusing on inclusivity and sustainability. We are building 260 Smart Green Schools to equip our children with the skills needed for a rapidly changing world, constructing 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres to deliver 24/7 healthcare services, and establishing 260 farm estates to revolutionise agriculture and create wealth. Development waits for no one. Enugu is ready to absorb high-skill investments across various sectors with projects that promise significant returns. As a government, we remain committed to creating opportunities, eradicating poverty, and improving living standards for all. Tomorrow is Here!

Delighted to share that we have sealed a deal with the renowned Landmark Africa Group to revamp and reposition the iconic Nike Lake Resort. This Public-Private Partnership (PPP) marks a bold step towards achieving our vision of growing Enugu’s economy to $30 billion within the next six years. Under this agreement, the Enugu State Government has entrusted the Nike Lake Resort as an asset, while Landmark Africa Group will invest an impressive N10 billion in the first phase to restore its past glory. This investment will bring in up to two (2) million visitors annually, create countless jobs, and significantly boost our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Nike Lake Resort is a jewel of our state and a symbol of our rich history and potential. By partnering with Landmark, a leader in the hospitality industry, we are setting the stage for the Resort to become a premier global destination for tourism, business, and relaxation. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with our broader efforts to transform Enugu into a hub of opportunities. Our administration has committed N800 billion this year alone to infrastructure development, including the ongoing dualisation of the Enugu-Opi-Nsukka Road, which will enhance connectivity to the Resort and foster even more investments along the corridor. To our prospective investors, I extend an open invitation: Enugu is ready for business. We are creating an environment where businesses thrive, backed by improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and progressive governance. I applaud the Founder and CEO of Landmark Africa Group, Mr. Paul Onwuanibe, for believing in our vision and for joining us in this journey to restore Nike Lake Resort’s iconic status. Tomorrow is here!

2/ To our retired and active servicemen and women, you are the pride of our nation, the bastion of our unity, and a symbol of our sovereignty. On this day of remembrance, I reaffirm our administration’s commitment to your welfare. Our support will complement the Federal Government's efforts, ensuring no family of a fallen hero is left in want. The wreaths we laid today are more than ceremonial. They represent a pledge to provide a shoulder for grieving families and meet their material needs. This is how we, as a grateful people, honour your sacrifices. To our Armed Forces, we say thank you. Your bravery, dedication, and resilience will forever inspire us. Enugu stands united in celebrating your service and sacrifice.

I was pleased to receive Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the former governor of Abia State, senator representing Abia North Senatorial District and Chairman Senate Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation, yesterday in my office. Our discussion on key issues affecting the South East was both insightful and productive. Thanks for coming!

I had the honour of receiving the newly elected National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, led by our distinguished President-General, Senator John Azuta-Mbata. This is not merely a personal triumph for the new leadership; it is a collective victory for all Ndigbo. The peaceful conduct of the election demonstrates that Ohanaeze now has a solid succession pattern, and I commend my brother governors for their active participation in this vital process. Ndigbo stand at a critical juncture in our history. The challenges we face are significant, but I have no doubt that the new leadership possesses the wisdom, experience, and capacity to navigate these times. As I shared during our meeting, we must draw strength from unity. Like a quiver full of arrows or a tightly bound broom, we are far stronger together than we could ever be apart. Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains the soul of our people, and this new leadership gives us renewed hope. I urge you to forge a united front and work tirelessly to address the existential threats facing our people. We are watching and praying for your success. On behalf of the people and government of Enugu State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your emergence through a peaceful and exemplary election process. May God grant you the wisdom of Solomon and the strength to carry out this noble mission.

Today, we signed the Land Use Regulation 2025 and Executive Order No. 1, 2025, designating several locations in Enugu State as urban areas. Under this Executive Order, the entire Enugu East, Enugu North, Enugu South, Udi, Nkanu West, Nkanu East, and Nsukka LGAs are now classified as urban areas. 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 been designated as urban areas. This milestone aligns with our vision to make land transactions transparent, efficient, and corruption-free. It complements the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS), which we launched recently to streamline applications for land titles and administrative processes. With this regulation, there shall be no more hidden charges in land transactions. Also, double allocations and land grabbing are a thing of the past. And there will be clear timelines and fees for all land-related applications. Residents in newly designated urban areas can now apply for Certificates of Occupancy, enhancing their property rights. Our administration remains committed to creating an environment that fosters ease of doing business and promotes economic development. I thank my team for their outstanding work, and I assure Ndi Enugu of extensive public enlightenment to ensure everyone understands the new processes. Tomorrow is here!