
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has announced a major plan to establish a state-owned cement factory in Ebonyi State.
He said the project will support his administration’s broader industrialisation drive for the state.
The Governor revealed the plan during the public presentation of the 2026 budget proposal on Monday.
He said the event was organised to gather meaningful inputs from citizens across all sectors.
Nwifuru praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms.
He said those reforms created a stronger foundation for states seeking long term development.
According to him, many sectors of the national economy have experienced remarkable growth under the current administration.
He linked the renewed economic strength to the removal of fuel subsidy earlier in the year.
The Governor said the removal unlocked revenue opportunities that were not previously possible.
He noted that Ebonyi’s budget rose from N89 billion to more than N800 billion after subsidy removal.
He described this increase as clear evidence of financial improvement driven by national reforms.
Nwifuru said the 2026 budget is tagged “Budget of Hope and Actualization.”
He explained that the plan focuses on completing ongoing projects across the state.
He also said the budget prioritises human capital development through targeted investments.
The Governor appealed for broader cooperation from Nigerians, including the opposition parties.
He urged them to support the Presidential Renewed Hope Agenda and his People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.
He said both agendas share the same goal of improving the lives of citizens.
Nwifuru dismissed speculations that project execution in the state has slowed down.
He assured residents that all projects remain strictly time bound.
He said contractors will take advantage of the dry season to speed up work.
The Governor announced that project commissioning will begin in May next year.
He revealed that President Tinubu is expected in Ebonyi to commission at least 10 completed projects.
He said this visit will showcase Ebonyi’s rapid development under his administration.
Representatives of traditional rulers, women groups, elders’ councils and student bodies spoke earlier at the event.
They commended the Governor for including critical sectors in the 2026 budget.
They said the allocations reflect the needs and aspirations of various communities.
The groups also praised the Governor for maintaining open engagement with citizens.
They said his inclusive approach has strengthened trust in government.
With the new cement factory plan, Ebonyi expects stronger industrial growth in the coming years.
The initiative is projected to boost employment, revenue, and long-term economic stability for the state.
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