De Parrot Media: Tinubu Pledges Eastern Rail Completion, Anambra Basin Development
Enugu, Enugu State – President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to completing the Eastern Rail line, stretching from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, during a high-profile visit to Enugu State on Saturday. The announcement, made during an interactive session with South East leaders, follows the recent completion of the Port Harcourt to Aba section.
President Tinubu's visit included the inauguration of several development projects in Enugu State, showcasing Governor Peter Mbah's ambitious development plans. These projects, highlighted by the President, included the GTC Smart Green School, New Haven/Bisalla Road, the International Conference Center, and a state-of-the-art Command-and-Control Center equipped with 150 surveillance-equipped patrol vehicles. The President also virtually commissioned additional projects from the Enugu State Government House.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Command-and-Control Center, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of security investment for rapid development, commending Governor Mbah's efforts. He lauded the Governor's commitment to a 21st-century development model, particularly impressed by the Smart Green School's technological advancements. The President praised Governor Mbah, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for his accomplishments, highlighting that party affiliation is secondary to national development. He reiterated a similar sentiment regarding Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
The interactive session saw several prominent figures from the South East express their concerns and requests to the President. Former Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo, stressed the importance of completing the Eastern Rail line to boost non-oil exports and economic growth. Chris Ugoh, an Enugu State indigene, highlighted the potential of the Anambra Basin, estimated to hold up to 1 billion barrels of oil and 30 billion cubic feet of gas, for power generation and industrial feedstocks. Onyemauche Nnamani, National Commissioner representing the South East in the Police Service Commission, advocated for modern security strategies, including a reduction in inefficient checkpoints.
Responding to these concerns, President Tinubu pledged support for the Anambra Basin's development, emphasizing the importance of gas as an alternative energy source. He reassured the audience that the Eastern Rail line's completion remains a priority for his administration. He also praised former Senate President Ken Nnamani for his role in safeguarding Nigeria's democracy.
Governor Mbah, in his address, described President Tinubu as a "true federalist," commending the establishment of the South East Development Commission and the liberalization of the electricity sector. He outlined his ambitious vision to boost Enugu State's GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion within four years, highlighting achievements in enhancing public safety, including the eradication of the region's debilitating sit-at-home orders imposed by criminal elements.
The President’s visit underscored the federal government’s commitment to the development of the South East region, promising continued support for Enugu State and other states in their development endeavours. The event concluded with a renewed sense of optimism for the region’s future, fueled by collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments.