Enugu state Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah ,has assured achievement and sustainability of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in the state , adding that the state Government has created policies, programs and enabling environment for businesses to thrive and for the SDGs programs to be sustained.
He assured that every investment in sustainable development is an investment in posterity.
He made this known in a keynote address he delivered at a One- Day Interaction, with members of the Civil Society Organisations , held on Saturday in Enugu.
The event was organised by the Sustainable Development Goals office, with the Theme, “Advancing the SDGs in Enugu state: mobilizing Public and Private Partnership” held Saturday , at De Base event center, Enugu, to mark the 2024 Global Goals week.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government , Prof Chidiebere Onyia said the matter was not just important to the state, “but to the very future of our world- Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Enugu State through Public and Private Partnerships”
According to him, “the SDGs are more than just a global framework for addressing poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation; they are a blueprint for creating a future where every citizen thrives, and where no one is left behind.
“These 17 goals, from quality education to climate action, are not isolated targets. They are interwoven objectives that, when achieved, ensure the prosperity and well-being of our communities.”
The Governor noted that for the lofty ideas to be realized, there must be partnership with the public and Private sectors.
His words: “for Enugu State to realize these lofty aspirations, we must confront a fundamental truth: government action alone will not be enough. We need the concerted efforts of both public and private sectors—a coalition of the willing, ready to take bold steps towards meaningful change.
Pix-: SSG, Prof Chidiebere Onyia
“The Essence of Public and Private Partnerships (PPP)
Partnerships are the driving force behind sustainable development. Public and private entities each bring unique strengths to the table.
“The government provides structure, policy frameworks, and public resources, while the private sector brings innovation, expertise, and financial capacity. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our people and create lasting impact.”
Highlighting the importance of partnership, Governor Mbah said, “the challenges we face today—poverty, inequality, environmental degradation—are far too complex for any one entity to solve alone.
“Together, we can sustain clean water that government is providing in every community in Enugu State. Mobilize our communities to take ownership of the smart green schools in their wards. Thus, ensuring quality education for every child.
Tackle unemployment by creating industries that harness the skills and talents of our youth.
Preserve our environment, ensuring that our natural resources are protected for future generations,” he said.
The Governor told the gathering that Enugu State is blessed with human and natural resources.
” We have a vibrant workforce, strategic geographical positioning, and a growing pool of talent across various industries. But we must also recognize that to advance the SDGs, we need more than just resources—we need partnerships that work.
Pix- Jon. Williams Amuka, House member representing Igbo-Etiti Local
He urged the members of the Civil Society, to see the SDGs not just as moral imperatives, but as business opportunities., adding that ” Investing in sustainable solutions pays off—whether it’s through expanding your market, creating new revenue streams, or building corporate goodwill.
He went on to say, “working with the government should not be viewed as a bureaucratic challenge, but as a strategic partnership that builds a more stable, profitable environment for all.
“As a government, we continue to foster an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. We have reduced the bureaucratic barriers that hinder private sector involvement. We have created policies that incentivize sustainability —helping us meet the SDGs more rapidly.”
Encouraging everyone to get involved, Governor Mbah said ,”We are at a pivotal moment. The SDGs are not distant, abstract concepts. They are a call to revive our social contracts and to reimagine what we can achieve together. We have the potential to be a model for how public-private partnerships can truly transform a society.
What we do today will echo through the lives of those yet to be born. Every investment in sustainable development is an investment in posterity. The smart green schools government is building, the roads our administration are constructing, the businesses we create—they will serve not just us, but our children, their children, and countless generations after the
Pix-: Some CSOs members at the event.
“Let us not leave here today with merely good intentions. The clock is ticking. 2030 is fast approaching, and we have much to do if we are to meet the SDGs. But I know we can do it—because I have seen the resilience, the creativity, and the passion of the people of Enugu.
“Let us harness the power of partnership, the creativity of our people, and the wealth of our resources to advance the SDGs in ways that leave no one behind. Together, we can build a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Enugu State for current and future generations.
Pix- SSG, Prof Onyia
Earlier in a welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals ( SDG) and Focal Person, Engr. Onyinye Akubuilo- Okpalanma, said Governor Mbah in his manifesto prior to his election, “made it clear that his administration would be one that listens to the voice of citizens of the state”.
Represented by the SSA to the Governor on SDGs; Hon. Francis Anioke, Akubuilo- Okpalanma said in keeping with that promise, the interaction with civil society organizations and youth volunteers was organized “,to find common grounds to advance our collective interest. “
Each of you have been carefully chosen to attend this meeting, because of the track record of the organization you represent and your work on the SDGs and so, not just are we happy that we will be speaking to the right people but we are also hopeful that the impact of this meeting would be felt greatly in our state”, she said .
There was questions and answers session, where the SSG took time to explain Government programmes to the participants.
In an opening remark, the Acting Managing Director,ENRUWASA, Chika Mbah spoke on Governance. She highlighted some projects executed by Governor Peter Mbah administration, saying that the Governor wanted a better future for the people of the State.
In an interview, mmber reHouse Committee chairman on Economic Development, Poverty Reduction,Hon. Williams Amuka said the state Governor had done a lot to enhance Sustainable Development Goals in every aspect, more especially in tbe area of education , water, and others
” The policies that he came in with since May 29,, 2023 had really improved the educational sector, the way it had never done before Wee, in the House of Assembly, we are participating in the restructuring of the educational system, restructuring.
We are very happy with what his
administration has brought to the academic environment in the state.. He said the successes recorded were not without challenges, especially financial challenge. The Lawmaker said the state House of Assembly has cordial relationship with the Executive and the relationship will continue.
There were questions and answers session at the meeting.
Author-Maureen Ikpeama