The Enugu State government has announced a 25-year development plan aimed at shifting the state's focus from project-based development to a more institutionalized and policy-driven approach. Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, made this announcement during the 2026 Global Goals Week Symposium in Enugu. The symposium, organized by the State Office of Sustainable Development Goals, focused on the theme "From Projects to Lasting Impacts."
The 25-year plan is designed to create a structure for future administrations to maintain and enhance development in key areas such as the economy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, environment, technology, and human capital development. According to Governor Mbah, the plan aims to ensure that development is not restarted with each change in government, but rather built upon through strengthened policies, institutions, and systems.
A key aspect of the plan is its reliance on reliable data, measurable indicators, and effective monitoring tools to assess the performance of government investments. Governor Mbah emphasized that the plan will provide a clear direction for successive administrations to work within a broader vision for the state, promoting continuity and sustainability. He also highlighted the importance of proper staffing, upkeep, funding, technology, and management systems for infrastructure projects.
The governor pointed out that infrastructure such as roads, smart schools, and healthcare centers should be viewed as economic pathways and essential services that require more than just construction. He noted that roads, for instance, should be seen as linking communities, increasing access to markets, and creating opportunities for local residents. The state is also working to enhance digital governance to boost transparency, traceability, and accountability.
Governor Mbah stressed the importance of reliable data in tracking progress in the 25-year plan. He encouraged citizens to take ownership of public infrastructure and urged them to safeguard government projects, emphasizing that they belong to the community. The governor's representative also highlighted the need for a long-term approach to development, one that prioritizes institutionalized growth over project-based initiatives.
The 2026 Global Goals Week Symposium provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the state's development goals and strategies for achieving them. The event was organized by the State Office of Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on promoting sustainable development and tracking progress. Governor Mbah's representative emphasized the state's commitment to achieving its development goals and ensuring a sustainable future for its citizens.
The Enugu State government's 25-year development plan is a significant step towards ensuring sustainable growth and development in the state. With a focus on institutionalized growth, policy-driven approaches, and reliable data, the plan aims to promote continuity and sustainability in key areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The state's commitment to digital governance and citizen engagement also underscores its dedication to transparency and accountability.
Key points
- Enugu State government unveils a 25-year development plan to ensure continuity and sustainability in growth, infrastructure, and human capital development.
- The plan aims to shift the state's focus from project-based development to a more institutionalized and policy-driven approach.
- The plan relies on reliable data, measurable indicators, and effective monitoring tools to assess government investments.