By Moses Nwite, Abakaliki
The Governor of Ebonyi State in Southeast Nigeria, Francis Nwifuru, has initiated the distribution of palliatives to alleviate the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
This activity is part of the commemoration of the 63rd Nigeria Anniversary and the 27th Anniversary of the creation of Ebonyi State.
The distribution is taking place simultaneously across the 13 Local Government Areas of the State, with all the 13 Local Government Chairmen present at the various headquarters to distribute the palliatives to the rural communities as well.
In his address, the Governor stated, “I am deeply delighted and honored to address you today, my fellow citizens of Ebonyi State, on this momentous occasion of the celebration of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary and the 27th Anniversary of the creation of Ebonyi State.”
“This event is historic and symbolic as it marks the first Independence Day celebration since our administration took office, following your overwhelming support for our manifesto – The People’s Charter of Needs. It also provides us with the opportunity to assess our modest progress so far in meeting your needs, which were the basis for your choice during the elections.”
Governor Nwifuru stated, “Allow me to remind you of the immense sacrifices made by our nation’s foremost nationalists and founding fathers of Ebonyi State in their struggle for the creation of the State. We remember the likes of Late Ezeogo Dr. Akanu Ibiam, Chief Martin Nwanchor Elechi, Distinguished Senator Chris Chukwuma Nwankwo, Sen. Dr. Offia Nwali, Ezeogo Dr. Agom Eze, and others.”
He continued, “It has been 153 days since we assumed office. Within this period, we have assembled a team of bureaucrats and professionals from various fields to assist us in meeting your needs. Together, as a team, we have taken several practical steps to fulfill our promises to you, in line with our manifesto – The People’s Charter of Needs. We are striving to exceed expectations in serving you because we believe in the words of the great American author, O.G Mandino, to ‘always render more and better service than is expected of us, no matter what the task may be.’”
Education
The Governor reiterated, “We remain committed to revamping our education system to create a conducive environment for quality teaching and learning at all levels. Our aim is to achieve entrepreneurial and skill acquisition education for economic self-reliance. To accomplish this, we have increased the subvention to Ebonyi State University from 150 million to 200 million naira and cleared two months’ arrears. Additionally, we have released the outstanding 300 million Naira owed to Ebonyi State University by the previous administration. We have also studied the excellent education systems of the United Kingdom and the Federal Republic of Rwanda for replication in Ebonyi State. Furthermore, we have approved and released funds for the site clearing of the University of ICT, Oferekpe Agbaja, and the upgrading of the Ebonyi State College of Education Ikwo to the University of Education.”
Health
The Governor announced, “In line with our commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to our people, we have recruited 195 healthcare personnel to oversee the 13 General Hospitals in the State. We have also approved the establishment of a Mega Drug Production Centre and a Mega Drug Distribution Centre.”
The Governor highlighted his achievements in various sectors to improve the lives of the people.
During the event, former Governors Chief Martin Elechi and Dr. Samuel Egwu appealed for the Chigbo Okadigbo International Airport Onueke to be renamed after the Late Dr. Offia Nwali.
The Independence Celebration concluded with a Mass celebration led by Bishop Emeritus of Abakaliki Catholic Diocese, His Lordship Micheal Okoro.
