News
Empowerment: Enugu Commissioner doles out ₦50m to 105 youths
In a rare show of magnanimity and grassroots empowerment, Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Prince Lawrence Ezeh (Prince of Mburubu) has disbursed non-refundable grants totalling N50 million to the people of his hometown, Mburubu, in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Commissioner Ezeh
The wide-reaching intervention aims to boost farming activities, uplift local businesses, and complement Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s mission to eradicate poverty from every home in the state.
The funds, drawn from Dr. Ezeh’s personal resources, were distributed directly to hundreds of beneficiaries, with individuals receiving between N200,000 and N500,000, while each of the community’s villages received N1 million. The youth of Mburubu were collectively given a special grant of N3 million to encourage enterprise and innovation.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony, Dr. Ezeh said his initiative was not a political gesture but a deliberate contribution to support Governor Mbah’s economic vision.
“This is personal money, but I am driven by a shared mission with His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, to ensure that poverty is eradicated from every household in our dear state,” Dr. Ezeh stated.
“We must ask ourselves every day: how are we supporting the government to bring prosperity to our people?”
He appealed to the beneficiaries to use the resources judiciously so that “more people can benefit in the next round.”
He also called on affluent sons and daughters of Enugu State to emulate the gesture, urging them to give back to their roots.
To ensure equitable distribution, the funds were handed out via direct cheques during a well-attended community ceremony.
Among the notable individual beneficiaries were artisans, small-scale farmers, traders, and traditional community leaders.
A long list of recipients received N200,000 each, including Mrs. Blessing Aniobi, Peter Chukwu, Cletus Egbo, Mercy Edeh, Chief Denis Aniobi, and Ogbonna Chukwu, among others. Over 50 names appeared in this category.
Recipients of N300,000 included High Chief Cornelius Aniobi, Helen Onyeabor, Emmanuel Abraham Aniobi, and Ozo John Nwosu, alongside several women and youth. More than 40 people received this mid-tier funding.
At the highest level, individuals like Jeff Okuta, Joseph Onu, and Chief Geodge Enyim were each granted N500,000 to support larger-scale business or farming projects.
In a significant push to empower communal structures, each of the following villages received N1 million: Umudara, Uhuegbe, Uhuagu, Obinagu, Umunafor, Amanator, Amachi, and both the men and women of the Umuogbuewu family. The Mburubu youth, a vital demographic for sustainable development, were awarded N3 million to implement group-led economic initiatives.
“This money is not for lavish spending. It is for farming, for trade, for enterprise. Let it be seed capital that yields harvests of prosperity,” Dr. Ezeh advised.
Community members welcomed the support with visible gratitude, describing the grants as “timely and transformative.” Chief Emmanuel Edeh, a recipient, praised Dr. Ezeh’s commitment to grassroots development: “He is not just talking about change—he is making it happen.”
Another beneficiary, Cecilia Aniobi, who received N300,000, said, “This is the first time many of
us are getting direct support without political strings. It will help me expand my cassava farm.”
Dr. Ezeh’s gesture comes at a time when food security and small business growth are central to Governor Mbah’s strategic development plan for Enugu State. By aligning his personal philanthropy with public policy, Dr. Ezeh has positioned himself as a leading example of public-private synergy in community development.
He urged Mburubu residents to continue supporting the Governor’s programmes: “The transformation of Enugu State requires unity of purpose. Let us walk hand in hand with the government.”
Dr. Ezeh concluded by assuring the community that more interventions will come if the funds are used wisely: “This is only the beginning. Let this yield harvests of success that will multiply opportunities for all.”
List of beneficiaries
Ogbonna Chukwu – 200,000
Chief Ralph Imeka – 200,000
Chief Denis Aniobi – 200,000
Okonkwo Ogbonna – 200,000
Blessing Aniobi – 200,000
Fredrick Aniobi – 200,000
Victoria Chukwu – 200,000
Chimezie Nwogho – 200,000
Blessing Okafor – 200,000
Maria Chidebe – 200,000
Cletus Egbo – 200,000
Florence Chukwu – 200,000
Nwachukwu Dorathy – 200,000
Mercy Edeh – 200,000
Augustine Edeh – 200,000
Ekene Chukwu – 200,000
Elias Okeke – 200,000
Augustine Nwachukwu – 200,000
Amaechi Romanus – 200,000
Nwanzi Joseph – 200,000
Roseline Chukwu – 200,000
Baby Paul – 200,000
Nneka Nwokike – 200,000
Linus Nwankwo – 200,000
Alfred Nwigwe – 200,000
Charles Aniobi – 200,000
Onovo Jonas – 200,000
Chukwu Ambrose – 200,000
Peter Chukwu (sir pee) – 200,000
Anthony Chibuikem Mbah – 200,000
Joy Oluchi Nwankwo – 200,000
Chukwu Ndubuisi – 200,000
Chima Omah – 200,000
Peter Okeke – 200,000
Gabriel Onovo – 200,000
Esther Enyim – 200,000
Emmanuel Njoku – 200,000
Florence Nwaju – 200,000
Onyema Eze – 200,000
Edwin Udeh – 200,000
Lawrence Edeh Aniobi – 200,000
Josephine Nwafor – 200,000
Aniebo Chukwu – 200,000
Benedict Onu – 200,000
Ogbonna Aniobi – 200,000
Susanna Aniobi – 200,000
Edwin Aniobi – 200,000
Felicia Chukwu – 200,000
John Egbo – 200,000
Elizabeth Nwogbo – 200,000
Onu Elizabeth – 200,000
Helen Aniobi 2- 00,000
Paul Njoku – 200,000
Cecilia Aniobi U – 200,000
Mary Nwafor – 200,000
Onyemaechi John – 300,000
Helen Onyeabor – 300,000
Christopher Edeonu D.P.G 300,000
Chief Everist Edeani 300,000
High Chief Cornelius Aniobi – 300,000
Patrick Chukwuorji – 300,000
Cecilia Edu Amobi – 300,000
Emmanuel Abraham Aniobi – 300,000
Eze Cecilia – 300,000
Chukwu Helen Eze – 300,000
Onyeabor Ekwueme – 300,000
Okoro Ogonna – 300,000
Nwigwe Tochukwu – 300,000
Chukwu Mercy – 300,000
Onyeabor Kelvin – 300,000
Okorie Stephen – 300,000
Onyeabor Sunday – 300,000
Owe Ikechukwu – 300,000
Godwin Nworie – 300,000
Onuvo Nwadibie – 300,000
Peter Onu – 300,000
Chief Okonkwo Agwu – 300,000
Virgina Okorie Eze – 300,000
Lolo Ogechukwu Ede – 300,000
Lady B – 300,000
Ozo John Nwosu – 300,000
Cecilia Okafor – 300,000
Ezinne Precious Nwodo – 300,000
Uche Chukwu – 300,000
Ikechukwu Indubisi -n300,000
Ikechukwu Anyim – 300,000
Edwin Uden – 300,000
Roselin Okeke – 300,000
Ambros Amiobi – 300,000
Okudiri Dominic Ogbu – 300,000
Chief Kingsley Eze – 300,000
Alhaji Raymond Nwachukwu – 300,000
Jeff Okuta – 500,000
Linus Igbuolu – 500,000
Simon Aniobi – 500,000
Joseph Onu – 500,000
Emma Ede – 500,000
Joseph Nwonkwo – 500,000
Okechukwu Chukwudike – 500,000
King David – 500,000
Okeke Michael – 500,000
Chief Geodge Enyim – 500,000
High Chief Sunday Chinwuba – 500,000
Emmanuel Ezeh – 500,000
Abata Anari – 500,000
Umudara Village 1,000,000
Uhuegbe Village –1,000,000
Uhuagu Village – 1,000,000
Obinagu Village 1,000,000
Umunafor Village – 1,000,000
Amanator Village – 1,000,000
Amachi Village – 1,000,000
Umuogbuewu Family Men – 1,000,000
Umuogbuewu Family Women – 1,000,000
Mburubu Youths – 3,000,000.
By Our Correspondent
As Nigeria celebrates its 66th Independence Anniversary, the candidate for the House of Representatives seat representing the Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency, Hon. Chief Kevin Tobias Chukwu, has called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to building a better country.
Chukwu, also known as Ochiri Ozua 1 of Amagu Ikwo, made the call in an Independence Day message to Nigerians, particularly the people of Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency and Ebonyi State.
He described the anniversary as not only a moment for celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the state of the nation and the responsibilities of leaders in building a Nigeria that meets the aspirations of its citizens.
According to him, Nigeria’s journey since independence has been marked by significant challenges, with millions of citizens currently facing economic hardship, while young people continue to search for opportunities and many communities contend with insecurity and uncertainty.
Despite these challenges, the Ebonyi politician said the resilience of Nigerians remained a source of hope for the country’s future.
“I believe in the resilience of our people. I believe in the ingenuity of our youths, the strength of our women, the wisdom of our elders and the determination of ordinary Nigerians who wake up every morning and refuse to give up on this country,” he said.
Chukwu, however, stressed that hope must be matched by responsible leadership, arguing that public office should be viewed as a responsibility rather than a privilege.
He called for leadership that prioritises the protection of lives, creation of economic opportunities, provision of infrastructure, strengthening of institutions and responsible management of national resources.
The candidate also emphasised the need to create an environment where young Nigerians can pursue successful lives within the country and where hard work, merit and enterprise are rewarded.
He said Nigeria had “come too far to surrender to hopelessness,” urging citizens and leaders alike to remain committed to the country’s progress.
“A better Nigeria is still possible, but it will require responsible leadership, accountable institutions and citizens who refuse to give up on their country,” he said.
Chukwu concluded by expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future, declaring: “Nigeria will rise. Nigeria must rise. And together, we must build the Nigeria we deserve.”
He also paid tribute to the nation’s past heroes, praying that their sacrifices would continue to inspire the country.
“May the labour of our heroes past never be in vain,” he said, as he wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary.
By Okey Maduforo, Awka
As Nigeria celebrates its 66th anniversary of independence from colonial rule, democracy in the country has continued to evolve and deepen, the Anambra State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Emma Anosike, has said.
Anosike made the observation in a message to mark Nigeria’s Independence anniversary, noting that despite the challenges the country had encountered since 1960, its democratic system had continued to improve under successive administrations.
According to him, since the return to democratic rule in 1999, Nigeria has witnessed relatively smooth transitions from one administration to another, while citizens have continued to exercise their fundamental rights to hold governments accountable for their performance.
“Before the return of the democratic process, it was indeed difficult and near taboo to challenge the leadership of the country, and those who may have attempted it in the past faced grave consequences.
“Similarly, we have had smooth transitions from one dispensation to another, producing five presidents through the ballot and not through the barrel of the gun. These elected presidents were produced by different political parties.”
Anosike said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had sustained the country’s democratic principles and created an avenue for Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, race or religion, to express their views on government policies and programmes.
“Under the stewardship of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigerians have been enjoying the freedom to express themselves over issues, policies and programmes of government, and those expressions have been shaping and guiding the administration of Mr President,” he said.
The APC chairman said Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary provided an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s journey as a nation and the progress made since independence.
He said President Tinubu’s Independence Day broadcast had offered another opportunity for Nigerians to renew their hope for a greater and more prosperous country.
Anosike also commended what he described as the “enormous infrastructural development” taking place across the country under the Tinubu administration.
He urged Nigerians to continue to support and have faith in the administration as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
An Elder Statesman, Chief Hycienth Ngwu, has called on political leaders and policies formulators to ensure governmental policies and programmes directly touch lives of the people and reduce hardship in the country.
Ngwu, who is a prominent community leader in Enugu, urged Nigerians to maintain peace within neighbourhoods and communities, as no meaningful development can take place without peace.
The statesman made the call on Thursday in Enugu while reacting to the developmental efforts of Nigeria at its 66th Independence.
He said that previous and present administrations had put in place policies and programmes to reset the socioeconomic fabric of the nation.
Ngwu said that while the removal of fuel subsidy, and unification of the foreign exchange had good intentions, their impact is yet to reflect on the lives and livelihoods of vast majority of Nigerians.
He urged leaders to ensure that public resources were properly managed while citizens remained patient with reforms aimed at improving the socioeconomic status of the country.
The elder statesman noted that at 66th independence, the country was still struggling on keeping its peace and co-existence as a country; adding that the founding leaders of Nigeria envisaged a closely united, bonded and peaceful country.
He called for return to policies that promote local production, indigenous industries and entrepreneurship, arguing that excessive dependence on imports had continued to weaken the country’s productive capacity.
According to him, we are yet to achieve economic independence even as we needed to do more on non oil revenue earns as the greater part of the world is moving towards greener and clean energy.
“Greater emphasis should be on skills acquisition, creativity and entrepreneurship education system, as academic qualifications without practical skills could leave graduates dependent on scarce white collar jobs.
“We ought to be economically productive nation capable of producing and exporting goods while developing its human capital,” he said.
Ngwu noted that current insecurity and social instability could be partly attributed to poverty and ignorance, while calling for greater honesty and trust between leaders and citizens.
“Corruption, tribalism and selfishness must be addressed if Nigeria is to achieve peace and lasting progress,” he added.
He also called for the scrapping of state electoral commissions as they have not helped in deepening democracy at that level. The National Election body should take over that responsibility.
As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Day, Macmaduson Concepts Limited, a leading provider of HVACR,industrial parts, sensors, electrical and plumbing materials, has extended warm Independence Day greetings to its customers, clients and business partners across the country.
In a goodwill message to mark the occasion, the company expressed appreciation to its valued customers for their continuous support, trust and partnership over the years.
Macmaduson Concepts Limited, which specialises in HVACR,Industrial Materials, sensors, air-conditioners, refrigerators, cold rooms, chillers, refrigerants, electrical materials and plumbing materials, said the occasion provides an opportunity to celebrate Nigeria and reflect on the nation’s journey.
The company wished Nigeria continued growth, unity, peace and prosperity, while expressing hope for a brighter future for all Nigerians.
The message from the company reads in part:
At Macmaduson Concepts Limited, we celebrate our great nation, Nigeria, and appreciate our valued clients for their continuous support, trust and partnership. May Nigeria continue to grow in unity, peace and prosperity.”
The company concluded its Independence Day message with the theme: “One Nation, One People, A Brighter Tomorrow.”
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!
Happy 66th Independence Anniversary from Macmaduson Concepts Limited.
By Okey Maduforo, Awka
The perennial flooding in Awka, the Anambra State capital, may soon be brought under control following the commencement of flood control measures by the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA).
The Authority has commenced the dredging of the Obibia Stream as part of efforts to improve the flow of floodwater and reduce flooding on major roads and streets within the capital territory.
During the rainy season, Zik’s Avenue, one of the major roads in Awka, is frequently affected by flooding, with water reportedly submerging buildings and disrupting commercial activities and vehicular movement, particularly around Eke Awka Main Market.
The ACTDA management has also commenced the desilting of drains and flood channels across the capital territory to ensure the free flow of water during heavy rainfall.
Speaking on the development, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ACTDA, Ozo Ossy Onuko, attributed the recurring flooding to the blockage of drainage systems, largely caused by human activities.
Onuko said the desilting of drains would remain a continuous exercise, adding that the Authority would periodically clear the drainage channels to improve water flow.
“What we must understand is that the flood is as a result of the drainage that has been blocked, and this is due to human activities. When you go to Eke Awka Market, most of the water channels are affected, but we shall continue to carry out the desilting of those drainages for water to flow easily,” he said.
He further disclosed that the Obibia Stream was being dredged to facilitate the easy flow of floodwater.
“As you also know, we have commenced the dredging of the Obibia Stream, which is part of efforts by government towards putting an end to the perennial flooding in the Capital City,” Onuko stated.
The ACTDA boss also observed that some of the drainage channels constructed in Awka in the past were not deep or wide enough to accommodate the volume of water generated during heavy rainfall.
According to him, the situation is further worsened when residents block the drainage channels with refuse and other materials.
He said the Authority was mobilising and sensitising market organisations and village associations to support government efforts in tackling flooding within the capital territory.
“Government is surely playing its role in that regard, but it is also the duty of residents of the Capital City to clear their gutters and ensure that garbage is not dumped inside the drainages,” he said.
Onuko expressed optimism that the measures being implemented would significantly reduce the flooding problem in Awka, while urging residents to support the government’s efforts.
“With what we are doing so far, the challenges of flooding would soon be a thing of the past, and we urge all and sundry to be part of this move because natural disasters know no bounds,” he stated.
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