New Year Address: Governor Peter Mbah Vows No Complacency, Outlines Major Development Push for Enugu in 2026
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has assured residents that his administration will not slow down in 2026, declaring that the new year would mark a decisive phase of accelerated consolidation rather than a period of comfort or celebration. Speaking in his New Year broadcast to the people of Enugu State, the governor stressed that the progress recorded since his inauguration would only serve as a foundation for deeper and more sustainable development.
Mbah described 2026 as a year of significant advancement for the state, insisting that his administration’s confidence is rooted in tangible achievements rather than rhetoric. He urged citizens to remain optimistic, united, and actively engaged in the governance process, noting that enduring development requires collective responsibility.
Reflecting on the past two and a half years, the governor highlighted achievements across critical sectors, including the revival of previously moribund public assets, reforms in the transport system, improvements in water supply, enhanced security architecture, road construction, tourism infrastructure, and expanded investments in education and agriculture. According to him, these gains have helped reposition Enugu as an emerging destination for investors and visitors.
However, Mbah warned that progress must be protected from complacency, describing it as one of the greatest threats to sustainable development. He noted that while achieving growth is difficult, maintaining and improving upon it is even more demanding.
“This year demands more of us than the years before. 2026 is not a victory lap. It is a continuation of a journey that is far from complete,” the governor said. He emphasised that the administration’s focus is on building durable systems that will stand the test of time rather than pursuing short-term achievements aimed at public applause.
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Outlining expectations for the new year, Mbah said residents would experience more visible and practical improvements in daily life. He announced that all urban roads across the state’s cities would be paved and upgraded, complete with proper drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, and enhanced street lighting to improve safety and mobility.
In the water sector, the governor stated that projects such as the 9th Mile 24/7 Water Scheme, the planned Ajali water scheme revamp, and improvements at Oji River would continue, with the aim of delivering clean and reliable water to more households across the state.
Education was also identified as a major priority in 2026. Mbah revealed that all 260 Smart Schools across Enugu State would become fully operational, offering digital learning platforms, modern science laboratories, renewable energy solutions, and free daily meals to more than 300,000 children. He described the initiative as a cornerstone of the administration’s human capital development strategy.
On healthcare, the governor announced that each of the state’s 260 wards would have a fully equipped Primary Healthcare Centre, staffed and powered to deliver essential medical services. He said the goal was to ensure that quality healthcare is accessible to residents regardless of location or income level.
Mbah further disclosed plans to expand operations at the Enugu airport, including growing the Enugu Air fleet to 20 aircraft within the year. According to him, the expansion would boost trade, tourism, and investment, strengthening the state’s economic connectivity.
Security remained a central theme of the address, with the governor issuing a stern warning to criminals. He vowed that no crime would go undetected or unresolved, assuring residents that the government would continue to invest in intelligence, surveillance, and law enforcement capabilities to keep the state safe.
“We will never drop our guard. We must protect what we have built and finish what we have started,” he said.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive development, stressing that public funds would continue to be channelled strictly into projects that improve the lives of citizens. He called on residents to stay engaged, informed, and willing to hold government institutions accountable.
Mbah concluded by wishing Ndi Enugu and Nigerians a happy New Year, urging unity and cooperation. He maintained that the strength of both the state and the nation lies in collective effort, shared responsibility, and a sustained commitment to progress.