The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has assured the people of the state that in the new year there will be no slowdown in the speed of transformation witnessed by the state in the year 2024.
This was even as he urged Nigerians to light the fire of love, empathy and charity to take the nation forward in the new year.
Mbah affirmed this in his New Year message on Tuesday, reiterating his commitment to inclusive development and comprehensive economic opportunities.
“The high expectations that have arisen following next year's successes are understandable. We cannot afford to temper your expectations with excuses or reducing our results.
“So, as we watch the dawn of a New Year, we can be sure that there will be no gradual reduction in the social and economic re-engineering we have initiated across Enugu State.
“We cross 2024 with the liveliness of a sprinter. 2025 will be no different. There would be no need to slow down to catch our breath, because our firm determination to transform Enugu State has imbued us with the stamina of a marathon runner.
“Within a few days, we will witness the formal commissioning of some major capital projects: from the completed Green Smart Schools to the impressive International Conference Centre; Primary Health Care Centers that extend quality medical care to the most remote places in our state, as well as several kilometers of urban and rural roads; and Bus Terminals designed to restore order and dignity to our public transportation.
“These are important projects. But they are only a minuscule representation of our broader vision for Enugu State.
“This year, the doors of our Smart Schools will open across the state, almost literally bringing a world of opportunity to our children's classrooms.
“Through our fully functional Smart Schools, we have glimpsed the healthy transformation that children will experience when exposed to a variety of practical and impactful learning.
“We can only marvel at the likely impact, as more students join the ranks that ensure a fit-for-purpose education and a skill set that sufficiently prepares them for the evolving global workplace.
“So, by September, all children between the ages of 3 and 15 in each of our Smart Schools will have access to a free, world-class education, complemented by a free nutritious meal every day,” he said.
The governor added that his vision of transforming Enugu State into a premier destination for business, investment, tourism and living and growing its economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion remained uncompromising.
“For a long time we seemed content with initiatives that delivered results that were marginal at best and barely generated the real growth that can launch Enugu into a modern economy.
“The year 2025 will see the frontiers of development expand, as we take it literally to the last mile, where everyone can take the provision of basic services for granted,” he said.
Mbah, however, urged the people of Enugu State and Nigerians to embrace love and empathy as key ingredients in nation building.
“Let us not allow ourselves to be consumed by personal activities to such an extent that we become insensitive to the needs of others.
“Let us resolve never to underestimate the power of a small kind action. Love and empathy are fundamental pillars of every society.
“It is why we have carefully structured our development model in a way that is inclusive and ensures that we are not growing our economy at the expense of our common humanity.
“I can confidently assure you that we are on the right track; We are carrying everyone forward and we will never deviate from this path in this New Year.
“May this New Year light the fire of love, empathy and charity in our hearts and banish the toxic air of hatred, distrust and cynicism,” he stated.
Mbah thanked the people for their support and wished them a happy and smooth New Year celebration.
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