By Victor Nwegede
Governor Francis Nwifuru on Wednesday rolled out sweeping gains in education, infrastructure, healthcare, and youth empowerment as Nigeria marked 65 years of independence and Ebonyi celebrated 29 years of creation.
Speaking in Abakaliki, Nwifuru reaffirmed his People’s Charter of Needs agenda, announcing the establishment of ICT and aviation universities, massive road works across the 13 LGAs, upgraded hospitals, and an improved ₦500,000 monthly package for doctors.
He highlighted scholarships for Ebonyi students abroad, support for more than 700 traders through the Hawkers’ Fund, a ₦2 billion youth grant scheme, and fresh agricultural projects.
The governor saluted President Bola Tinubu, the State Assembly, Judiciary, traditional rulers, and his wife, Chief Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, for her humanitarian efforts.
“Ebonyi at 29 is undergoing a rebirth in infrastructure and human capital,” Nwifuru declared, urging unity and patriotism as the state is about to enter its third decade.
Former governors Senator Sam Egwu and Chief Martin Elechi commended his leadership, with Egwu calling the scholarship programme “unbelievable,” and Elechi lauding its “human touch.”
A major highlight of the ceremony was the issuance of staff of office to newly selected traditional rulers, presented to the governor by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Uchenna Igwe.
