President Bola Tinubu has pledged the Federal Government’s support for key infrastructure projects in Enugu State, including a proposed rail line connecting Parako to Enugu.
The President made this commitment on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of Enugu political leaders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. During the meeting, he commended Governor Peter Mbah for his developmental strides in the state.
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Mbah, who was elected governor under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, later defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in October 2025.
Addressing long-standing calls for federal investment in infrastructure, Tinubu highlighted the importance of the Parako–Enugu rail corridor, describing it as vital to unlocking the economic potential of the South-East region.
“Regarding the issues you raised—the rail line from Parako to Enugu, power sector reforms, and infrastructure, which forms the backbone of economic growth—I have taken note and will do more,” the President said.
He attributed Nigeria’s persistent infrastructure challenges partly to a mismatch in financing, noting that long-term projects have often been funded with short-term resources.
“In the past, Nigeria has tried to finance long-term projects with short-term funding. We have not adopted a serious long-term approach to national development,” he added.
Tinubu also took a swipe at past administrations, criticising the privatisation of the power sector.
“You have leaders who privatised electricity that is not working. They left us with darkness and decline, and we are working hard to rebuild and create a nation filled with hope and prosperity,” he said.
Encouraging continued focus, he added, “Stay committed. When you are making progress and others are unhappy, let them be. Remain focused and confident in your efforts.”
The President acknowledged Mbah’s political transition, saying, “You were in another party—I won’t mention it—but you are now part of the progressive family, and I am proud of that.”
He assured the governor of continued support, stating, “Thank you, Peter. We will not disappoint you. We will keep working diligently. We understand the challenges we inherited, and although the journey is tough, we will steer the country to stability and economic prosperity.
“You have shown transformative leadership, and we appreciate the visible progress in Enugu. The achievements in security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare are clear evidence that reforms are delivering real results,” Tinubu added.
The delegation, led by Governor Mbah, included three former governors, a former Senate President, two serving senators, and other prominent political figures from the state. They arrived at the Presidential Villa around 2:00 p.m.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Mbah said the visit was to express solidarity and support for the President’s vision for Nigeria’s economic growth.
“This visit reflects our shared commitment to progress and a better future. We are here to express our sincere appreciation for your engagement and investment in Enugu State,” he said.
“If it were possible, the entire population of Enugu would have gathered here to thank you. This delegation represents the voices of over seven million people who are grateful and supportive.
“We state clearly that this relationship has earned our trust. Based on that, we will stand firmly with you during the January 2027 election,” Mbah added.
He also highlighted several key projects inaugurated by the President during his January visit, noting their positive impact on the state’s socio-economic development.
Mbah praised Tinubu’s “fatherly support and generosity,” recalling his January 4, 2025, visit to Enugu.
“You demonstrated true friendship to Enugu State by bridging a long-standing political divide between the region and the Federal Government, despite political differences at the time.
“You chose to invest in our state because you recognised our vision. I remember us standing together to inaugurate several landmark projects,” he said.
Former Senate President Ken Nnamani also commended the President, stating that the delegation came to express appreciation for federal support to Enugu and the South-East, particularly in infrastructure such as roads, rail, and aviation.
“We have strong leadership in Enugu State and confidence in our governor. His achievements would not have been possible without your support, which he has utilised effectively,” Nnamani said.
“The entire population of Enugu would have loved to be here to express gratitude. Your leadership will continue to enjoy our full support.”
He further affirmed that Enugu State would back Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027
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