Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has assured that his administration will exceed the projected Internally Generated Revenue target of ₦600 billion for 2025, enabling more development projects across the state.
Mbah made this commitment on Saturday night in Enugu during his investiture as President of the Enugu Sports Club. The event also featured the inauguration of the newly remodeled clubhouse and the installation of new club patrons by the club’s Chairman, Chief Nnanna Atuonwu.
Reflecting on his administration’s ambitious economic goals, Mbah recalled initial skepticism when he announced plans to grow Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion.
“At the time, the trending analysis did not support such a growth level. Achieving this target requires a 27 per cent compounded annual growth rate, and some questioned how it could be realised,” he said.
He stressed that despite doubts, his government recognised the need to shift focus away from federal allocations and mobilise domestic revenue instead.
“When we took over, the state’s IGR was about ₦25 billion. This year, our projected IGR is ₦600 billion, and based on the numbers we are seeing, we are not only going to meet this target but surpass it.
“This revenue growth is what enables us to make significant interventions across all sectors, from education to healthcare and beyond,” Mbah stated.
The governor reaffirmed that his administration’s development strategy ensures inclusive growth by integrating all parts of the state into a unified economic plan.
As part of Enugu State’s preparations to host the 2026 National Sports Festival, Mbah announced plans to renovate the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Sports Village.
“We are going to build a brand-new stadium, which will include facilities for aquatic sports. In addition, Awgu Sports Village will be revamped to ensure it is ready for the festival,” he said.
He also commended Chief Nnanna Atuonwu and his executive team for remodeling the clubhouse, highlighting the importance of sports clubs in fostering recreation, social cohesion, and community well-being.
“The true value of a great sports club lies in its ability to reinvent itself across generations and remain relevant in contemporary times. Enugu Sports Club has done exceedingly well in this regard,” he remarked.
Mbah further pledged to asphalt the club’s entrance road and address other pressing infrastructure needs.
Earlier, Chief Nnanna Atuonwu noted that Enugu Sports Club had previously faced challenges related to infrastructure and environmental vibrancy compared to its peers nationwide.
He commended Governor Mbah for his unwavering support, which led to the successful remodeling of the main clubhouse.
“Before the renovation, the main hall was in a state of disrepair, with a leaking roof, rotten wood, and corroded iron structures.
“When we turned to the governor for assistance, he did not hesitate.
“Beyond financial and logistical support, he laid a solid foundation for the club’s long-term financial independence and sustainability.
“This is why I am advocating for the establishment of a Trust Fund to ensure the club’s continued growth,” Atuonwu said.
During the ceremony, new patrons of the club were installed, including Ms. Edna Erinne, Chief Kingsley Eze, Dr. David Ogbodo, and Chief Festus Onu.
Atuonwu, whose tenure as chairman had ended, announced that Mr. Ifeanyi Nweke would soon assume the role of chairman.
The chairman of the occasion, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, praised Atuonwu for the remarkable transformation of the clubhouse since its establishment in 1929.
Nnamani, who also serves as Secretary of the Police Service Commission, expressed gratitude to Governor Mbah for his contributions to the club’s development.
Additionally, club trustee Chief Nnia Nwobodo proposed the creation of a cinema or film hall within the club to promote education, particularly for the children and families of members.
