The Abia, Anambra, Imo, Delta, and Ebonyi (AAIDE) state indigenes residing in Enugu have praised Governor Peter Mbah for presenting a N971 billion budget for 2025, describing it as transformative and inclusive.
The group, led by Chief Igwe Udensi Eke, made this known on Thursday in Enugu , through a statement signed by Hon. Ernest Onuoha, a member and also the PDP Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area.
He stated that, the budget aligns with the governor’s vision of making Enugu one of Nigeria’s top three states by GDP.
They commended the N320.6 billion allocated to education, which they said would promote a knowledge-driven economy and empower the youth to overcome poverty.
AAIDE also lauded the N45.8 billion set aside for healthcare ;saying that, it would improve medical services and infrastructure, ensuring better access to quality care for residents.
AAIDE Enugu North, also described the N213.1 billion allocated for infrastructure as critical for economic growth. They noted that improved roads and public works would enhance trade and connectivity across communities.
On the N41.1 billion earmarked for transportation, including four new aircraft for Enugu Air, drew high praise, the group said the initiative would establish Enugu as an aviation hub, boost commerce, and attract international investments.
They also commended the governor for increasing Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N37.4 billion in 2023 to a projected N144.7 billion by September 2024: asserting that, the leap shows his commitment to reducing reliance on federal allocations.
Highlighting the N82.3 billion allocated to agriculture, they said the sector’s boost would enhance food security, create jobs, and diversify the state’s economy.
The group acknowledged the support of the State House of Assembly in ensuring a seamless budget presentation. They urged lawmakers to expedite its passage for effective implementation.
Hon. Onuoha reaffirmed the group’s support for the governor, describing the budget as a roadmap to progress that will uplift residents and attract development to the region while also praising the group’s leader, Chief Igwe Udensi Eke for his role in nurturing the group to greater heights.
The statement reads “
PRESS STATEMENT
AAIDE State Indigenes in Enugu Applaud Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for Transformative 2025 Budget
I Hon Ernest Onuoha,the PDP Chairman, Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State, on behalf of The Abia, Anambra, Imo, Delta, and Ebonyi (AAIDE) state indigenes residing in Enugu State, under the leadership of Chief Igwe Udensi Eke, proudly commend Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for the presentation of the 2025 Budget of Exponential Growth and Inclusive Prosperity. This bold financial plan reaffirms his administration’s commitment to reshaping Enugu into an economic powerhouse and fostering development across all sectors.
The allocation of N320.6 billion to education highlights the administration’s focus on fostering a knowledge-based economy. This investment promises to empower the youth with the skills and resources needed to rise above poverty while positioning Enugu as a hub for intellectual and professional growth. It also assures neighboring states of a brighter future for their children schooling within Enugu.
The N45.8 billion directed towards healthcare reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for citizens. By focusing on better service delivery and medical infrastructure, the state is ensuring that families have access to the care they need, enhancing productivity and promoting well-being. This is a critical step in building a society where everyone has a fair chance to thrive.
The budget’s attention to infrastructure, with N213.1 billion earmarked for roads and public works, is another commendable aspect. Improved road networks and urban projects will enhance connectivity, encourage commerce, and ease the movement of goods and services. These developments will not only benefit the residents of Enugu but also strengthen ties with neighboring states.
The N41.1 billion set aside for transportation, including the procurement of four aircraft for Enugu Air, is a groundbreaking initiative. By launching a state-owned airline, Governor Mbah is redefining regional and international travel. This project will attract investors, boost tourism, and create job opportunities, while also cementing Enugu’s status as an aviation hub for the South East. The concessioning of Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the establishment of a cargo terminal will further stimulate economic activities in and around the state.
Governor Mbah’s strides in revenue generation are also worthy of praise. The remarkable rise in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N37.4 billion in 2023 to an anticipated N144.7 billion by September 2024 highlights his administration’s innovative approach to governance. This progress reduces dependence on federal allocations and ensures that the state has the resources to fund its ambitious projects.
The allocation of N82.3 billion to agriculture is another standout feature of the budget. This will not only enhance food security but also boost agro-industrialization, creating wealth for farmers and expanding opportunities for agro-businesses. Enugu’s focus on this sector is a pathway to economic diversification and sustainability.
Education, healthcare, infrastructure, transportation, and agriculture are all pillars of development, and this budget addresses them in ways that promise a brighter future for the people. It is evident that Governor Mbah is creating an environment where all residents, regardless of their backgrounds, can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the state’s growth.
We also appreciate the Enugu State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Engr. Uchenna Ugwu, for their partnership in ensuring this transformative budget is passed without delay. Their cooperation underscores their commitment to the collective good of the state.
The AAIDE indigenes in Enugu State reaffirm their support for Governor Peter Mbah’s administration and its drive for progress. We are optimistic that this financial plan will pave the way for economic prosperity and inclusive development that will resonate across Enugu State and the South East as a whole. We are also praising our leader, chief Igwe Udensi Eke for his outstanding achievements towards promotion of peace, unity and progress in the AAIDE.
Signed,
Hon. Ernest Onuoha
Chairman PDP Enugu North Local Government Area, for AAIDE State Indigenes in Enugu
