Mbah Backs Tinubu, Rules Out Return to Fuel Subsidy, Says Nigeria Has Moved On ... Outlines Future Development Plans for Enugu

Our Reporter 

Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, has ruled out the possibility of returning to fuel subsidy, describing any debate over its reintroduction as unnecessary and potentially harmful to investor confidence.

Mbah spoke on Wednesday at the Meet the Candidates town hall meeting organised by Afia TV in Enugu, where he defended President Bola Tinubu’s subsidy removal policy and highlighted his administration’s achievements and development plans for Enugu State.

The governor argued that restoring the subsidy would worsen economic challenges, weaken the naira and discourage investors.

“We cannot go back to subsidy. And I do not think it is in the interest of the country for us to even debate that,” he said, adding that the focus should be on ensuring that the benefits of subsidy removal translated into jobs, wealth creation and improved household welfare.

He noted that uncertainty over the policy could trigger panic and discourage investors already considering opportunities in the country.

Mbah also said the Federal Government should continue to encourage private capital, citing developments in the stock market and increased foreign direct investment as indications of improving investor confidence.

He attributed the trend partly to the stabilisation of key macroeconomic indicators under Tinubu’s administration.

The governor further maintained that the former subsidy regime disproportionately benefited wealthy Nigerians, arguing that the proceeds from its removal could be deployed more effectively to support vulnerable citizens.

He cited the Federal Government’s cash transfer initiatives and a programme targeting 1,000 beneficiaries per ward nationwide with seed capital to support productive activities.

On his administration’s performance, Mbah said his government had delivered on its campaign commitments across critical sectors, urging residents to assess the state’s transformation since he assumed office.

He listed the revitalisation of Hotel Presidential, the International Conference Centre, Enugu Air, transport terminals, 268 Smart Green Schools, 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres, CNG buses and the ongoing Enugu International Hospital project among the administration’s achievements.

Looking ahead, the governor outlined plans to expand infrastructure and improve access to electricity, transportation and education.

He envisioned an Enugu State generating 660 megawatts of electricity, providing 24-hour power supply at a projected tariff of ₦120 per kilowatt-hour, and operating a monorail system alongside its existing transport services.

Mbah also expressed the ambition of establishing direct international air connections from Enugu to the United Kingdom, the United States and other destinations.

He urged residents to support the continuation of his administration’s development agenda, saying sustained progress would require maintaining the standards established during his first term.

The governor said the state must build on its existing gains while pursuing further growth, investment and improved public services.