Enugu State is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at repositioning it as a hub for industry, technology, commerce, and tourism.
This position was highlighted in a statement issued by Concerned Professionals for Good Governance, a leadership advocacy group, and signed by its representative, Okechukwu Nwafor.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has pursued policies and projects designed to shift the state from a civil service–dependent economy toward a diversified, investment-driven model.
For decades, Enugu was widely perceived as a public sector–oriented state with modest industrial activity. Recent reforms and infrastructure investments, however, are reshaping that narrative and strengthening the state’s appeal to investors and development partners.
Governance Reforms Improve Business Environment
One of the administration’s early initiatives was Executive Order 005, which mandates Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to publish service-level agreements outlining procedures, costs, and timelines. The policy is intended to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery.
The digitization of land administration through the Enugu Geographic Information Services (ENGIS) has streamlined land title processing, reduced delays, and improved access to land for commercial and industrial development.
Infrastructure Expansion Driving Growth
Infrastructure development remains central to the state’s economic agenda. Key interventions include:
-Construction and rehabilitation of road networks linking rural production centres to markets.
-Expansion of water supply capacity from approximately 2 million to 120 million litres per day.
-Passage of the Enugu State Electricity Law to enable private participation in power generation.
-Deployment of fibre-optic infrastructure and AI-enabled surveillance systems to enhance security and support digital commerce.
These efforts are aimed at strengthening connectivity, improving service delivery, and supporting industrial productivity.
Industrial Revival and Agricultural Modernisation
The government has revitalized dormant industries such as Sunrise Flour Mills, United Palm Produce Ltd., and Nigergas Ltd., restoring production capacity and employment opportunities.
The Lion Business Park and Free Trade and Industrial Zone are designed to attract global manufacturers and logistics companies, while large-scale agricultural estates and commercial farming initiatives are modernizing food production and strengthening export value chains.
Education and Technology Development
The Smart Green Schools initiative is deploying digitally enabled learning environments across wards in the state, equipping students with skills in coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies.
Investments in digital governance and civil service capacity building are also transforming public sector operations and improving service delivery.
Transport and Regional Connectivity Improvements
Efforts to modernize mobility include the launch of Enugu Air, development of five ultramodern transport terminals, and the introduction of a state-wide mass transit system powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) buses.
These initiatives are expected to enhance regional connectivity and position Enugu as a logistics and travel hub.
Hospitality, Tourism, and Conference Economy
The restoration of the historic Presidential Hotel and the construction of modern conference and accommodation facilities form part of the state’s tourism and hospitality strategy. Officials say these projects aim to attract business events, medical tourism, and international visitors.
Industry observers note that Enugu has increasingly hosted national conferences and corporate events, reflecting its growing reputation as a business destination.
Security Improvements Restore Commercial Activities
Authorities attribute improved commercial activity to enhanced security coordination and stakeholder engagement. Collaboration with security agencies, regional leaders, and community stakeholders has helped restore economic activity previously disrupted by sit-at-home protests in parts of the South East.
Technology Investment Signals Future Growth
The signing of a $20 million technology investment project is expected to strengthen Enugu’s emergence as a technology and manufacturing hub. The initiative aims to support local production of digital devices and create new industrial opportunities.
Toward a Diversified and Resilient Economy
According to the statement signed by Okechukwu Nwafor, the ongoing reforms reflect a broader vision of reducing reliance on federal allocations while building a resilient, diversified, and technology-driven economy.
As reforms and projects continue to unfold, stakeholders emphasize that sustained implementation and policy continuity will be crucial to maintaining momentum and ensuring inclusive growth across Enugu State.
