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WHY UGWUANYI IS THE MOST BENEVOLENT LEADER IN THE HISTORY OF MODERN ENUGU STATE.
By Jeff Ejiofor
In ascribing BENEVOLENCE to the Governor, it’s important I define it to avoid any form of misconception by the reading audience, and put them in proper perspective to understand the essence of its usage here. Benevolence according to Cambridge Dictionary is the quality of being kind and helpful. It is charitable kindness, the ability to do good to others, especially those in need. Coming to modern Enugu State, it simply means Enugu from the date of its present composition. Precisely put, the Enugu State which came into being on 1st October 1996 following the creation of Ebonyi State by Late General Sani Abacha. So, my assertion that Ugwuanyi is the most benevolent leader in the history of modern Enugu State connotes his being the most humane, kind and charitable leader to govern Enugu State since 1996.
Having provided a background insight of what benevolence means and the context within which it’s used here, I would shed considerable light on its synonymity with the man, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. It will also not be out of place to reflect on some people’s responses to the short post I made on facebook concerning the matter on Tuesday, 30th Nov. 2020. Many respondents had commented out of context probably because of their inability to comprehend the post or out of sheer bias disposition against His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, The Doyin of Peace in Enugu State. Most times, out of ignorance or lack of information, people tend to rush into hasty conclusion over issues without carefully analysing them to unravel the realities on ground.
However, let me substantiate my position by providing answers to some genuine concerns raised by few of them. First of all,
those conversant with Enugu State know quite well that Ugwuanyi is the first Enugu Governor to show concern to the plight of the downtrodden as evidenced in his pro masses policies such as massive rural development, even distribution of infrastructure, running of open door policy, empowerment schemes beneficial to the poor, scholarship to the indigent, sponsorship of oversea trainings of qualified Enugu indigenes who distinguished themselves in various fields of endeavour, and the elavation of Enugu workers’ salary among other things.
Ugwuanyi is the first Enugu Governor to allow all inclusive wages negotiation. He gave workers opportunity to make inputs in their condition of service which led to the upward review and implementation of the national minimum wage in the state. It takes a kind man to do that in the midst of recession and economic instability. Those who question the ownership of state fund as regards its disbursement in this regard should tell us why it was not possible for previous chief executives of the state to do that. Does it mean they would have funded the outcome from their private pockets?
Again, this is the first time a Governor of Enugu State is concentrating development in the rural areas to touch the lives of poor and indigent rural dwellers who were hitherto abandoned. From Nkanu East to Awgu-Anninri, Udi, Oji River and Ezeagu, roads are being opened for rural farmers. Uzo-Uwani before now had two areas which could not connect each other unless they travelled over 59kms through four different local governments. Today, the story is different with the 36kms Eziani- Umuluokpa road Ugwuanyi is constructing to connect these forgotten poor people to their local government headquarters. It takes benevolence and courage to do that which others avoided. People of Isi-Uzo, Udenu and Nsukka LGAs will never forget Ugwuanyi’s rural road openings at Eha-Ndiagu and Agu Umabor which will enhance agricultural activities in due time. Mbu, Umualor and Eha-Amufu communities of Isi-Uzo will never forget the rural road projects of the Ugwuanyi administration. Udenu people will forever remain grateful to Ugwuanyi for his rural development drive which has seen to the completion of many strategic rural roads in the area. Igboeze North and South are not left out. The Amenity Hospital currently going on in Enugu Ezike as well as Type 3 Health Facility at Ibagwa Aka are all testimonies of rural development of this regime. It indeed takes benevolence to remember this harpless segment of the society.
Enhancement of rural health care delivery for the most vulnerable group in the society is an act of benevolent governance. The urgency of attention required in this sector necessitated the rehabilitation of health facilities across the 17 LGAs of the state with additional 7 new Type 3 Health Centres with modern equipment. He is also building a specialist tertiary health institution at Igbo-Ano to take care of the health needs of the entire Enugu North Zone which before now had none.
This is also the only Governor in modern Enugu State to site Fire Service Stations in rural areas. Oji River, Udi, Nkanu West, Udenu and Igboeze North are beneficiaries of this lofty policy which has repositioned the agency to combat any fire outbreak in such areas. It takes a benevolent leader to consider the safety of the downtrodden and do the needful.
It is also a common knowledge that Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi is the most tolerant modern Enugu Governor with meek and humble disposition which obviously potray him as one that cannot hurt a fly even in the face of unwaranted attacks by misguided social critics. It takes humility and benevolence to invite your detractors to a meeting with the intention of addressing their grievances. He is the first and the only Enugu Governor to do that. He does not hunt political enemies and ardent critics.
His open door policy is unparalelled in the history of Enugu State. He is the only Governor that created an atmosphere of simplicity around himself where people of different segments of the society access the Government House at will to table their problems. He leaves his door open to the masses irrespective of their class. These benevolence and openess were what led to the halting of incessant harrassment of motorists in Enugu by local government tugs that was the hallmark of the last administration. His ability to give listening ears to the public is legendary. Ugwuanyi stopped the bullying of Enugu citizens by ESWAMA, the agency in charge of environmental sanitation, which led to loss of lives in the past. It takes a benevolent leader to come down from his high horse to listen and pay attention to the plight of the masses.
Apparently, it is obvious that some people who do not see anything good in Ugwuanyi even when it’s clear that he has performed creditably well, were confusing benevolence with good governance in my previous update in line with their own relative understanding. Yes, good governance is relative, and its interpretation is a function of the judge’s mind. After all, I do not see the reason anyone will accuse a Governor who has done so much in the areas of rural infrastructure and basic amenities of non performance. Whether anybody likes it or not, Ugwuanyi is one of the few Governors in Nigeria today that have performed well given the current economic situation in the country. A visit to many rural communities will certainly convince the doubting Thomases.
Incedentally, some of these social media critics want all Enugu State problems to be fixed in 6 years, forgetting that government is a continuum. Some were there before, and many will still come after. So, governance is a continous process where people do their own bit and quit the stage at the expiration of their tenure. People should endeavour to be objective in their assessment of government performance. All those making noise here and there cannot convincingly define good governance in the context of the current circumstances in the country. They cannot accurately make objective and analytical comparisons among various state Governors. They also lack the objective and sincere analytical prowess to compare the past and present administrations. I once analysed past and present governments of Enugu State with statistical variables as regards shaping of their activities and performances. Some of the critics who were not ready to be objective, dismissed my views with a wave of hand and ignored the role of exchange rate in determining the cost of governance. They equally pretend not to know the impact of crude oil prices and sales on revenue generation vis a vis resources available to governments in Nigeria. To them, such important factors do not matter and that is why a Governor who has balanced infrastructural development and welfare of citizens has not performed in their minds. Some are even quick to name one or two governors who according to them are developing massive infrastructure in their states, without looking at such people’s welfare and human rights records as well as borrowing culture. It is unfortunate that every Dick and Hary has become a political analyst with the attendant danger of vague analysis and judgement
Well, in order not to bug readers with long piece, let me leave us with these few words of reality. In addition to the above insight into Ugwuanyi’s remarkable performances, several feats have been recorded by his administration in the areas of health, education and social security. A look at the secondary and primary education in Enugu State where modern facilities have been made available for quality learning environment even in the remotest parts of the state is a clear proof. His achievement in the health sector is glaring and the construction of an ultra modern Infectious Disease Hospital in Enugu is welcoming. Tertiary education has also benefited immensely from the Governor’s infrastructural touch. IMT, one of the foremost higher institutions of learning in the state has been revamped both in acadamic and physical infrastructure. So many courses have been accredited under his regime leading to its first convocation in 10 years. In short, Ugwuanyi is an epitome of benevolent and responsible leadership and no objective person will dispute that.
Ugwuanyi is unarguably like the noble Sun whose warmth is beneficial to even those who resent it for shinning.
Enugu is undeniably in the hands of God with him!
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Presidency Refutes Afenifere’s Deceitful Statement on President Bola Tinubu’s Midterm:
Chief Sunday Dare
The statement from a factional Afenifere group raises serious concerns about a penchant and deliberate attempt to find faults and trade in deceit instead of objectivity. The group has found it challenging to accept that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s comeback story is firmly underway.
The rebellious Afenifere claims that President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s performance over the past two years has witnessed a regression in human development, economic mismanagement, and democratic backsliding.
This is a jaundiced view, echoing the view of opposition politicians, one of whom the group supported in the 2023 election.
A balanced assessment based on available data reveals a more objective and progressive picture, with significant achievements amid the challenges expected from a country like Nigeria with decades-old problems.
Beyond its confounding conclusions based on prejudice, the statement raises the following issues. With the ensuing point-by-point clarification, it will become clear that the group’s position is neither grounded in facts nor logic.
- Economic Reforms and Their Impact
The factional Afenifere’s claim that Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira, have led to “unmitigated sufferings” and “economic deforms” seeks to draw attention to some of the challenges but overlooks the macroeconomic gains. The removal of the fuel subsidy, announced on May 29, 2023, saved the government over $10 billion in 2023 alone, reducing fiscal strain and redirecting funds to other sectors. Unifying the foreign exchange market and the naira’s floatation aimed to address distortions in the currency market, boosted foreign reserves to $38.1 billion by 2024 and achieved a trade surplus of N18.86 trillion for the country.
Under the Tinubu administration, Nigeria’s annual inflation rate fell to 23.71% in April 2025 from 24.23% in the prior month. Food inflation, the most significant component of the inflation basket, remained elevated but moderated to 21.26% from 21.79%
While these figures indicate stabilisation, the immediate impact on ordinary Nigerians is not lost. The government’s cash transfer programme, which provides funds to the poorest households and benefits over 5.7 million households, is a credible outreach.
However, dismissing the twin policies as “unforced errors” ignores the unsustainable nature of the previous subsidy regime and multiple exchange rate systems, which were draining public finances. A more balanced critique would acknowledge the necessity of reform while emphasising the need for better-targeted social safety nets.
As of today, the Tinubu administration has recorded over 900,000 beneficiaries of the Presidential Loan and Grant Scheme, over 600,000 beneficiaries of the Students’ Loan Scheme, NELFUND, N70,000 minimum wage, NYSC monthly stipend increase from N33,000 to N77,000, Free CNG kits distributed to thousands of commercial drivers across Nigeria with CNG buses rolled out in partnership with state governments, leading to a significant drop in transport costs. The administration also recorded over $10 Billion FX debt cleared, Federal account allocation to states growing by 60%, enabling more local development projects, N50 billion released to end the perennial ASUU strikes, and over 1,000 PHCs revitalised nationwide with an additional 5,500 undergoing upgrades.
The administration also disbursed N75 Billion in palliative funds to states and LGs for food distribution and cash transfers, over 150,000 youths are being trained in software development, tech support and data analysis under the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) project, over 20,000 affordable housing units under construction under the renewed Hope cities program launched across Nigeria, N200 Billion in Loans to farmers and agro-processors. Other gains: over two million Nigerians are now connected to new digital infrastructure and community broadband hubs and public WiFi projects, 3.84% GDP growth in Q4 2024 (highest in 3 years), over $50 Billion in new FDI Commitments, Net Foreign Exchange Reserves up from $3.99 Billion (2023) to $23.11 Billion (2024), over $8 Billion in new oil and gas investments unlocked, and over $800 million realised in processing investments in solid minerals in 2024 and inflation as at April was down to 23.17%.
It is now pertinent to inquire from opposition leaders about alternative strategies they would propose in contrast to this administration’s extensive list of significant achievements currently benefiting Nigerians in real-time.
- Cost of Governance and the Oronsaye Report
The assertion that the Tinubu administration has failed to implement the Oronsaye Report and instead increased governance costs is inaccurate. The Oronsaye Report, which recommends the merger or scrapping of government agencies to reduce expenditure, has not been fully implemented and has drawn criticisms; it must be noted, however, that the administration has made some efforts to improve fiscal discipline. The fiscal deficit was reduced from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024, and the debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from nearly 100% in 2022 to under 40% by 2024. The government also recorded over N6 trillion in revenue in Q1 2025, partly due to removing Ways & Means financing and fuel subsidies. These steps demonstrate fiscal prudence and will eventually translate into immediate, tangible relief for citizens. The administration is working earnestly to address these optics and prioritise cost-cutting measures, including implementing the Oronsaye Report, to restore public trust.
- Allegations of Prebendalism and Corruption
Afenifere’s claim that the administration favours “the privileged and connected” through corrupt palliative distribution and mega-project allocations is questionable. Reports of palliatives being mismanaged or distributed through unverified channels have no doubt surfaced, raising concerns about transparency.
The administration has taken steps against corruption, such as suspending Humanitarian Affairs Minister Betta Edu in January 2024 over alleged fund diversion, signalling some commitment to accountability. Critics may argue that more systemic action is needed, but dismissing all the efforts as propaganda overlooks these initial steps.
Without abusing Presidential powers, the administration is working on expediting action on all pending investigations and prosecution of corrupt practices. At the same time, critical agencies are collating credible evidence on ongoing corruption litigations. It must, however, be noted that in 2024, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured a record-breaking 4,111 convictions, marking its most successful year since its inception. They recovered over N364 billion and significant amounts in foreign currencies, including $214.5 Million, $54,318.64, and 31,265 Euros.
The EFCC achieved its single most significant asset recovery in 2025, with the final forfeiture of an Abuja estate measuring 150,500 square meters and containing 725 units of duplexes and other apartments. The EFCC concluded the final forfeiture and handed the estate to the Ministry of Housing in May 2025.
- Democratic Concerns and Centralisation
Afenifere’s accusation that the Tinubu administration is pursuing a “one-party state totalitarianism” and undermining democratic institutions is unsupported and lacks merit. The claim of neutralising the legislature and judiciary is also a false alarm.
The public should note that the Supreme Court has upheld opposition victories in states like Kano, Plateau, and Abia, suggesting judicial independence. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has faced criticism for allegedly appointing individuals said to be ruling party affiliates, but no evidence confirms these appointees are card-carrying APC members.
The allegation that the Tinubu government cracks down on peaceful protesters is primarily unfounded. It is a regurgitated rhetoric deployed under previous administrations as a reflection of broader challenges in Nigeria’s democratic culture.
The issue of the State Police is more complex than the oversimplified approach of the factional Afenifere’s statement. Every administration policy is subject to security impact assessment before implementation, and there is a difference between the State Police being widely advocated and a Police State that critics may blame the Federal Government for if implemented without caution.
- Security and Social Welfare
Contrary to the impression created, the administration’s security record is impressive. Over 13,500 terrorists, bandits, and insurgents have been neutralised and 7,000 arrested in the past year, though there is still some news of abductions and violent attacks. The administration’s proactive response to security-related matters has paved the way for more farmers to return to their farms, impacting food production and supply.
The administration also embarked on agricultural initiatives, including tractor procurement, fertiliser distribution, and increased mechanisation.
The government has also not relented on its Regional Development drive as the administration succeeded in establishing Development Commissions across 6 Geopolitical zones (South West, North West, North Central. North East, South East and the Niger Delta) to empower communities and accelerate developments.
- Political Climate and 2027 Elections
The claims of government-sponsored conflicts within opposition parties lack concrete evidence and should be ignored.
Economic reforms are undoubtedly laying the foundation for long-term stability, with GDP growth at 4.6% in Q4 2024 and a Fitch B credit rating upgrade as evidence. Moody’s Investors Service’s latest upgrade of Nigeria’s rating from Caa1 to B3, with a Stable Outlook, indicates that the Tinubu administration is on the right path.
The government is not oblivious to some discontent and difficult times among Nigerians. There is an urgency to deliver more tangible results, which is guaranteed given the impressive performance of the administration in just two years.
Afenifere’s statement saw the cup as half empty. On the contrary, it’s half full. Under President Tinubu’s administration, some of Nigeria’s hydra-headed problems are being tackled headlong.
The administration has achieved fiscal improvements, such as reduced deficits and increased revenues, which will eventually translate into meaningful microeconomic relief for most Nigerians in the short term, even as the government moves to address these issues with greater empathy and transparency.
The administration’s demonstrable priorities are securing the nation, fixing the economy, and improving human capital development.
Responsible citizens and political leaders must work collaboratively with the administration to address the challenges and counter disinformation, as highlighted in the admonition against fake news and deceptive AI videos.
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is turning the corner. From stabilising the naira and curbing inflation to reducing debt burdens and
expanding access to education and health, the administration delivers bold reforms with actual results. With improved security, regional inclusion, anti-corruption measures, and institutional rebuilding, Nigeria’s comeback story is not yet complete — but it is firmly underway.
– Sunday Dare is the Special Adviser to Mr. President on Media and Public Communications.
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