Ebonyi Government Moves to Complete Abandoned Projects, Push Economic Expansion

The Ebonyi State Government has restated its determination to complete abandoned public projects and accelerate socio-economic development across the state, describing the effort as central to its governance agenda.

Speaking with journalists in Abakaliki, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Ikeuwa Omebeh, said Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration is deliberately focusing on reviving long-neglected projects while introducing reforms to ensure durability and value for money.

Omebeh explained that projects inherited from past administrations, dating back to the era of former Governor Sam Egwu, are being reviewed and upgraded rather than merely reopened. According to him, the government considers the completion of legacy projects both a moral obligation and a strategic decision aimed at preventing waste of public resources.

He cited key initiatives currently receiving renewed attention, including the Oferekpe Water Scheme, the Ebonyi International Trade Centre, and various scholarship programmes. The commissioner said these projects are being redesigned with strict quality control and clear performance benchmarks to ensure they deliver tangible benefits to residents.

Beyond infrastructure renewal, Omebeh outlined the administration’s broader economic plans, revealing that the state is moving to strengthen aviation activities at the Ebonyi International Airport through the acquisition of three aircraft. He also disclosed plans to establish a state-owned cement factory, leveraging local mineral deposits to drive industrial growth and job creation.

According to him, these investments are intended to position Ebonyi as a competitive destination for business, trade, and private capital within the South-East and beyond.

The commissioner further noted that peace and stability remain a major pillar of the government’s development strategy. He said recent interventions to resolve communal conflicts in previously volatile areas, alongside the creation of new autonomous communities and the restoration of traditional institutions, have helped restore trust and social cohesion.

Omebeh emphasized that a stable environment is essential for sustainable development, adding that security and reconciliation efforts are already encouraging renewed economic activity in affected communities.

He also acknowledged the role of the media in promoting transparency and democratic accountability, assuring journalists of the government’s readiness to maintain open engagement and professional collaboration. He urged media practitioners to uphold ethical standards, especially amid the rise of digital and unregulated platforms.

Looking ahead, Omebeh expressed confidence that 2026 would mark a period of significant progress for the state. He said the Nwifuru administration remains committed to aligning policies with citizens’ needs while prioritizing equity, transparency, and accountability.

He concluded that through a combination of peacebuilding, infrastructure renewal, investment promotion, and constructive media relations, Ebonyi State is laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.