Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to surpassing the projected Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target of ₦600 billion for 2025. This move aims to fund extensive development projects across various sectors.
Mbah made this announcement on Saturday night in Enugu during his investiture as President of the Enugu Sports Club. The event also marked the inauguration of the newly remodeled clubhouse and the installation of new club patrons by the Chairman of Enugu Sports Club, Chief Nnanna Atuonwu.
Enugu’s Economic Growth Vision
Reflecting on the state’s ambitious economic goals, Mbah noted that many initially doubted the feasibility of expanding Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion.
“At the time, the trending analysis did not support such a growth level. Achieving this target requires a 27% compounded annual growth rate, and some questioned how it could be realised,” Mbah stated.
Despite skepticism, he emphasized that his government had prioritized reducing dependency on federal allocations by mobilizing domestic revenue sources.
“When we took over, the state’s IGR was about ₦25 billion. This year, our projected IGR is ₦600 billion, and based on the numbers we are seeing, we are not only going to meet this target but surpass it.
“This revenue growth is what enables us to make significant interventions across all sectors, from education to healthcare and beyond,” Mbah explained.
Inclusive Development and Sports Infrastructure Revamp
Mbah reiterated that his administration’s development strategy ensures inclusive growth, integrating all parts of the state into a unified economic plan.
As part of Enugu State’s preparations to host the 2026 National Sports Festival, he pledged to renovate the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Sports Village.
“We are going to build a brand-new stadium, which will include facilities for aquatic sports. In addition, Awgu Sports Village will be revamped to ensure it is ready for the festival,” he added.
Commendation for Enugu Sports Club
Mbah commended Chief Nnanna Atuonwu and his executive team for remodeling the clubhouse, emphasizing the crucial role of sports clubs in fostering recreation, social cohesion, and community well-being.
“The true value of a great sports club lies in its ability to reinvent itself across generations and remain relevant in contemporary times. Enugu Sports Club has done exceedingly well in this regard,” he remarked.
He also pledged to asphalt the club’s entrance road and address other pressing needs.
A Call for Sustainability and Infrastructure Development
Earlier, Atuonwu highlighted the challenges Enugu Sports Club had faced in infrastructure and environmental vibrancy compared to its peers nationwide. He praised Governor Mbah for his unwavering support in remodeling the main clubhouse.
“Before the renovation, the main hall was in a state of disrepair, with a leaking roof, rotten wood, and corroded iron structures. When we turned to the governor for assistance, he did not hesitate.
“Beyond financial and logistical support, he laid a solid foundation for the club’s long-term financial independence and sustainability.
“This is why I am advocating for the establishment of a Trust Fund to ensure the club’s continued growth,” Atuonwu stated.
New Club Patrons Installed
During the event, several new patrons were installed, including Ms. Edna Erinne, Chief Kingsley Eze, Dr. David Ogbodo, and Chief Festus Onu.
Atuonwu, whose tenure as chairman had ended, announced that Mr. Ifeanyi Nweke would soon take over as the new chairman.
The chairman of the occasion, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, praised Atuonwu for transforming the clubhouse since its establishment in 1929. Nnamani, who also serves as Secretary of the Police Service Commission, expressed gratitude to Governor Mbah for his significant contributions to the club’s development.
Meanwhile, club trustee Chief Nnia Nwobodo suggested creating a cinema or film hall within the club to promote education, particularly for children and families of members.
Conclusion
Governor Mbah’s bold economic vision for Enugu State is centered on sustainable revenue generation, infrastructural development, and strategic investments in sports and social welfare. As Enugu prepares for the 2026 National Sports Festival, the administration’s commitment to growth and modernization remains unwavering.
