The Ebonyi State Executive Council, at its 9th meeting presided over by Governor Francis Nwifuru yesterday, approved landmark decisions aimed at boosting the state’s economy, cultural heritage, food security, and infrastructure.
Briefing journalists on the outcome, Barr. Ikeuwa Omebeh, Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, said the decisions reflect the Nwifuru administration’s drive to reposition Ebonyi on the path of economic growth, cultural renaissance, and sustainable development.
According to him, at the top of the agenda was the review, reconciliation, and recovery of Ebonyi’s share of the Federation’s NLNG dividends and unremitted oil revenues dating back to 1999.
EXCO engaged TIARAS White Consult Limited as technical consultant to pursue the recovery, raising the consultancy fee from 10% to 15% to reflect industry complexities.
In a move expected to reposition Ebonyi as a key agricultural hub, EXCO also approved a request by Chinese firm Allallinfo Group AD to partner with the state in establishing cotton farms and agro-industries.
A section of the Ezzamgbo Veterinary School was allocated for the project, which aligns with federal recognition of Ebonyi as a cotton-producing state, opening doors to grants and interventions.
On the cultural front, government approved the employment of 35 young guest artistes to revitalise the State Cultural Troupe following mass retirements.
The new recruits including dancers, dramatists, singers, and instrumentalists will strengthen the state’s cultural export and tourism appeal.
Healthcare also received a major boost, with EXCO approving ₦3.51 billion for the construction of an ultra-modern clinic within the Government House and ₦250 million for the acquisition of Pentecost Foundation Hospital, Ezzamgbo, including its staff and equipment.
To reinforce food security and clean water supply, EXCO voted ₦432.8 million for water reticulation projects across Abakaliki metropolis, extending potable water to the Ochudo Centenary City, the House of Assembly complex, and new layouts.
In infrastructure development, the Council approved ₦1.38 billion for the reconstruction of internal and peripheral roads at Ebonyi State University, EBSU Presco Campus, alongside ₦600 million for the Hatchery Layout Road, Abakaliki.
The review of compensations for properties affected by the Vanco Flyover was also received with appreciation.
Sports and youth development featured prominently, with the Olympic Sports Centre swimming pool project receiving attention pending further review, while EXCO endorsed the engagement of a local consultant for the Abakaliki Capital City Master Plan.
On education, EXCO terminated contracts for poorly executed Model Secondary School projects after reviewing committee reports, signalling zero tolerance for substandard work.
Finally, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission commended the Ministries of Agriculture and Human Capital Development for transparency, with EXCO directing fresh training for stakeholders to deepen compliance with tax laws.
