The Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) South-East Geographical Zone has called for enhanced collaboration between the public and private sectors in Enugu State. This appeal was made during a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, led by NECA President Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye.
Commendation for Economic Reforms
Dr. Okoye expressed gratitude to the governor for hosting the delegation and praised his transformative infrastructure projects and far-reaching economic reforms. Dr. Ugochukwu Chime, Chairman of NECA South-East Zone, lauded Governor Mbah's visionary leadership, describing his administration as a model of purposeful governance. He specifically highlighted investments in road infrastructure, urban renewal, security upgrades, and the revitalization of key public assets such as the International Conference Centre, Presidential Hotel, and the launch of Enugu Air.
Support for Security and Business Climate
Chime commended the governor's strategic interventions to restore economic activity, including measures to address the disruptive Monday sit-at-home order. He also praised the establishment of a Distress Response Team and deployment of modern surveillance infrastructure, which have strengthened security and boosted investor confidence across the state.
Appeals from Organized Businesses
While reaffirming support for the administration's enterprise-driven policies, the delegation appealed for consistent implementation of harmonized taxes and levies, improved access to land and Certificates of Occupancy, enhanced participation in the power sector, and stronger support for SMEs through affordable financing and technical assistance. They also proposed the creation of a quarterly public-private sector engagement platform to address emerging business challenges and deepen economic collaboration.
Governor's Response and Announcements
Governor Mbah emphasized the critical importance of public-private sector engagement for sustainable growth. He noted that the organized private sector is central to achieving the administration's growth projections, which are anchored on broad economic reforms. He highlighted ongoing projects, including the Enugu Smart City, tourism initiatives (Awhum Waterfall, Ngwo Pine Forest, Nsude Pyramid), and the state water project.
Significantly, the governor announced a planned 660MW coal-fired power plant, with installation expected to begin in July 2026 and completion within 18 months. This project aims to address electricity supply challenges facing businesses. He reiterated the "Enugu First" procurement policy and urged businesses to engage with relevant agencies to benefit from state projects.
Support for MSMEs and Quarterly Business Forum
Governor Mbah disclosed that the state has secured funding for small businesses at single-digit interest rates, administered through the Enugu SME Centre. He encouraged entrepreneurs to take advantage of this initiative. He also approved the establishment of a Quarterly Business Forum for organized private-sector stakeholders to jointly identify and address emerging challenges.
Demonstrating commitment to local enterprise, the governor directed that HAMPOC-YTL Limited, a company producing prepaid electricity and water meters in the state, be considered for an immediate contract award during the meeting.
