Mbah advocates economically viable Igbo race
GOVERNOR of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has said that he strongly believes in the economically viable Igbo race, where human and natural resources are put to good use for economic growth.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Ifeanyi Ossai, stated this at a one- day retreat of Ohanaeze Ndígbo, in Enugu, with the theme, ‘ Ako Bu Ije’ ( wisdom is the journey).
Ossai commended the leadership of the apex Igbo socio- cultural organisation for its sacrifices, as it continues to work for sustainable development and unity in Igbo communities.
Mbah said: “We must think of home, and the best way to do this is by making it viable. We must unleash the person in us and do away with the mentality that anyone is holding us down.”
He reiterated some of the efforts of the state government towards tackling social issues, especially in education.
The governor added that the war is over, and, as such, Ndígbo should be more concerned about how to transform the fortunes of the people.
He stressed that the removal of trains from the exclusive list has created a huge task for the economic committee of Ohanaeze. He noted that the committee should look into creating a common market and economic integration of the region, stressing that the railway system comes in handy in achieving this.
He said Igbo should be interested in making the dry ports work and how to explore their access to the ocean, which, according to him, has a shorter distance than what they have in Dubai.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the event, Rear Admiral Allison Madueke, said that the theme of the event has said it all, “Ako Na Uche Bu Ije Anyi” ( wisdom is our journey).
He said that it is time to take a step forward, noting that walking without wisdom would mean missing your steps. He stressed that one needs to assess his journey and give himself a scorecard.
He added: “If the Jews can do it, we have more potential and natural resources at our disposal, which can be used to develop this region.”