In a stirring address marking the second anniversary of his administration, Governor Francis Nwifuru detailed an ambitious and impactful record of achievement while reaffirming his commitment to visionary leadership and transformational governance in Ebonyi State.
Speaking to an audience of stakeholders, dignitaries, and citizens of the state, Governor Nwifuru underscored the progress made across critical sectors, emphasizing the administration’s determination to uplift the lives of Ebonyians and position the state as a model of sustainable development in Nigeria.
The governor enumerated flagship projects that have redefined the state’s urban and rural landscapes, notably the groundbreaking construction of the VANCO Tunnel and Flyovers in Abakaliki — a first-of-its-kind initiative that promises to ease traffic congestion, enhance safety, and transform the capital city into a hub of 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 kilometers of urban roads and the construction of rural feeder roads and bridges, all aimed at unlocking economic potential and enhancing connectivity. The governor also outlined the administration’s interventions in health, including the provision of free maternal care, procurement of ambulances, and comprehensive upgrades to general hospitals statewide.
In the education sector, 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, both of which aim to produce globally competitive professionals and support the emerging digital and aviation economies.
Governor Nwifuru further revealed the administration’s aggressive drive to empower citizens, announcing the largest scholarship program in the state’s history, benefiting over 1,000 Ebonyians in advanced studies globally. Additionally, a comprehensive empowerment program has supported over 5,000 residents with capital injections ranging from N1 million to N100 million to grow businesses and create jobs.
The governor’s security initiatives have focused on equipping agencies with modern vehicles and tools to combat crime, while community engagement has quelled violence in troubled areas like Effium, Abaomege, and Ishinkwo.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the administration’s vision, with modern equipment distributed to cooperatives, establishment of the Ebonyi Feed Mill, and the revival of the Nkaliki Hatchery, creating thousands of jobs and reinforcing the state’s food security.
The state’s water and sanitation programs have seen the revival of four dormant water schemes, ensuring clean, safe water for households and communities.
Governor Nwifuru also spoke of 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 — poised to attract investors and catalyze local manufacturing.
“Leadership is about listening, helping, and guiding — translating vision into tangible outcomes,” he said, emphasizing a governance style rooted in humility and service to the people. In a moment of reflection, the governor also issued a heartfelt apology to the people for any shortcomings of his leadership, seeking forgiveness and vowing to do better.
Concluding with a prayer and call for unity, Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to accelerate the pace of progress and ensure that the coming years deliver even greater dividends of democracy to all Ebonyians.
