In a groundbreaking move aimed at revitalizing the economy of Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah has inked a significant partnership worth ₦40 billion with Jelfah Nigeria Limited. This deal marks a crucial step towards the rejuvenation of the long-abandoned Sunrise Flour Mill located in Emene, a vibrant industrial hub in Enugu.
A New Dawn for Sunrise Flour Mill
The Sunrise Flour Mill, once a beacon of productivity in the region, had fallen into neglect over the years, resulting in lost jobs and diminished economic activity. This partnership represents not only a revitalization of a critical asset but also a commitment from the state government to invest in infrastructure and employment opportunities.
The agreement with Jelfah Nigeria Limited, a reputable player in the flour production industry, is set to breathe new life into the mill, transforming it into a modern facility equipped to meet the demands of both local and regional markets. The initiative will utilize advanced technology and sustainable practices, fostering a competitive edge in the flour milling sector.
Boosting Local Economy and Creating Jobs
Governor Mbah articulated his vision of Enugu State as a thriving industrial hub, emphasizing the need to leverage existing assets for economic growth. “This partnership signifies our commitment to harnessing the potential of our state’s resources. By revitalizing the Sunrise Flour Mill, we are not only preserving a vital part of our industrial heritage but also creating numerous job opportunities for our youth,” the governor stated during the announcement.
The revitalization project is projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, ranging from construction works to operational positions within the mill. The multiplier effect of this development is expected to stimulate ancillary businesses, particularly in transportation, packaging, and distribution.
Enhancing Food Security and Supporting Local Farmers
Additionally, the upgraded mill will play a significant role in enhancing food security for Enugu State and Nigeria as a whole. By increasing local flour production capacity, the project aims to reduce dependency on imported flour, which has often been subject to price fluctuations and supply chain challenges. This initiative aligns with the current administration’s objective to support local farmers by sourcing raw materials locally, thereby boosting agricultural productivity and sustainability.
The partnership with Jelfah Nigeria Limited also takes cognizance of the broader economic climate in Nigeria, where the need for local production has become increasingly imperative. As the nation looks to reduce its reliance on imports and build self-sufficiency, projects like the revitalization of the Sunrise Flour Mill are critical to fostering a robust economy.
Governor Mbah’s administration is actively seeking other opportunities to breathe life into moribund assets across the state. By targeting strategic partnerships and investments, the state government aims to unlock hidden potential and drive transformative economic growth.
Conclusion
The ₦40 billion deal to revitalize the Sunrise Flour Mill is a testament to the bold steps being taken by Governor Peter Mbah and his administration to reposition Enugu State as an economic powerhouse in Nigeria. This initiative is a shining example of how public-private partnerships can drive sustainable development, create jobs, and enhance the overall well-being of the community.
As Enugu State gears up for this new chapter, the eyes of the public and stakeholders are keenly focused on the successful execution of this project and the ripple effect it will have on the local economy and the livelihoods of its citizens. With a united vision and strategic collaborations, the future looks promising for Enugu State.
Echezona Okafor.
NECO Releases 2024 SSCE Results: Over 800,000 Candidates Secure Credit In English And Mathematics
The National Examinations Council (NECO) has released the results for the 2024 Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE), with 828,284 candidates achieving credit passes in both English Language and Mathematics. This accounts for 60.55% of the 1,376,036 candidates who sat for the internal exams, according to NECO Registrar, Prof. Dantani Wushishi.
During a press briefing at the council’s headquarters in Minna, Niger State, Prof. Wushishi announced the results, which were published just two months after the final exam. He highlighted that 83.9% of the candidates, regardless of their performance in English and Mathematics, secured five credits or more.
Wushishi also revealed that exam malpractice saw a decline, with 8,407 candidates involved in irregularities in 2024, compared to 12,030 cases in 2023.
The 2024 SSCE exams took place between June 19 and July 26, with the marking process concluding on September 8. Wushishi noted, “Today marks 55 days since the final paper, and all procedures for the successful release of the results have been completed.”
Key statistics of the 2024 SSCE results include:
Registered candidates: 1,376,423 (706,950 males and 669,473 females)
Candidates who sat for the exam: 1,367,736 (702,112 males and 665,624 females)
Candidates with five credits, including English and Mathematic: 828,284 (60.55%)
Candidates with five credits, excluding English and Mathematics: 1,147,597 (83.9%)
Additionally, 40 schools across 17 states were implicated in mass cheating and will face appropriate sanctions. NECO has also recommended blacklisting 21 supervisors for unethical conduct, including extortion and drunkenness.
