In a resounding applaud to Governor Peter Mbah's administration, the Probity and Accountability Watch Initiative (PAWI), a prominent advocate for transparency and development, has commended the governor's remarkable achievements in infrastructure. The organization lauded the contributions of key officials, Engr. Gerald Otiji, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, and Arc. Uchenna Nwatu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Project Development and Implementation, calling them pivotal forces in the execution of Mbah’s infrastructural blueprint. PAWI also acknowledged the governor’s proactive approach, as seen in recent road construction flag-offs across various Local Government Areas in Enugu State, which aim to enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and improve residents’ quality of life.
In a statement released Wednesday, PAWI hailed Engr. Otiji, a German-trained engineer, as one of the governor’s "strongest hands." Recognized for his technical expertise and commitment to quality, Otiji has been instrumental in steering more than 1,000 ongoing projects across Enugu State’s 17 Local Government Areas and 260 political wards. His leadership in the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure has set a high standard, ensuring that every project is executed with precision and aligned with the governor's vision for wealth creation and sustainable development. Under Otiji’s guidance, projects such as smart schools, primary healthcare centers, and expansive road networks reflect not only technical excellence but also responsible use of public funds. The group commended Governor Peter Mbah who Flagged-off dualization of 43.7 Penoks-Abakpa Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road, Construction of 44km Amah-Eke–Oghe- Iwolo-Olo-Umulokpa Road and 78.85km of Multiple Roads in Nkanu East and West LGAs.
PAWI’s Director of Monitoring/Evaluation and Strategic Communications, Dr. Mrs. Ogochukwu Obealor, highlighted Otiji’s impact on key sectors, including education and healthcare, where his approach has led to the development of facilities that meet global standards. “Engr. Otiji’s focus on quality is evident in every project, from the smart schools to the healthcare centers. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to international best practices ensure that these infrastructures serve both present and future generations effectively,” Dr. Obealor remarked. PAWI emphasized that Otiji’s expertise in project management has maximized the value of public investment, ensuring that every naira spent on infrastructure yields tangible benefits.
Arc. Uchenna Nwatu, the Special Adviser on Project Development and Implementation, also received praise for his strategic oversight, particularly in planning and executing projects that are both efficient and sustainable. PAWI acknowledged Nwatu’s role as a vital collaborator, working closely with Otiji to bring the governor’s ambitious projects to fruition. His focus on sustainable project outcomes has ensured that infrastructure initiatives are not only completed on time but are also designed with long-term functionality in mind, contributing to the state’s overarching development goals. Dr. Obealor noted, “Arc. Nwatu’s input in ensuring that projects are aligned with sustainable development principles has been invaluable. His expertise has helped accelerate the Mbah administration’s goals and has fostered an environment of accountability and impact-driven governance.”
Governor Mbah’s administration has recently taken a bold step by flagging off a series of new road construction projects, an effort aimed at improving connectivity between urban and rural communities and de-risking agricultural investments by enhancing access to rural markets. This wave of road projects, including the dualisation of the Abakpa Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road and additional rural road networks, has been seen as a transformative move that will facilitate economic growth by making it easier for goods and services to move across the state. PAWI commended the governor’s strategic vision, which is manifest in the selection of these infrastructure projects that are designed to stimulate commerce, foster regional growth, and uplift residents’ standard of living.
Under the leadership of Engr. Otiji and Arc. Nwatu, Enugu State’s infrastructural expansion has extended to even the most remote areas, ensuring that no community is left behind in the drive toward modernization. This coordinated approach reflects a forward-looking vision, positioning Enugu State as a model of inclusive development. PAWI’s statement acknowledged that these developments represent not only physical structures but also a sustainable framework that integrates infrastructure with economic and social progress, aiming to meet both current demands and future needs.
PAWI called on all stakeholders, including local communities and private entities, to continue supporting Governor Mbah’s administration and its officials in their quest to deliver a more prosperous and inclusive Enugu State. "The commitment shown by Engr. Otiji and Arc. Nwatu underscores the Mbah administration’s dedication to creating enduring value for the people of Enugu State. Their unwavering focus on quality infrastructure is establishing a lasting legacy of development that will benefit generations to come," Dr. Obealor stated.
Signed:
Dr. Mrs. Ogochukwu Obealor
Director of Monitoring/Evaluation and Strategic Communications,
Probity and Accountability Watch Initiative (PAWI)
