Did you know Enugu State, once part of a larger state, became its entity in 1991? This guide looks into the history of leadership in Enugu State, Nigeria, and examines the tenures of those who have guided the state since its creation.
Maybe you’re interested in learning about the state transition from military rule to democracy or want to know who the current governor is, this comprehensive guide provides valuable Insights.
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Complete List Of Past And Current Governors Of Enugu State
Name | Began Tenure | Ended Tenure | Party |
|---|---|---|---|
Herbert Eze | August 1990 | January 1992 | Military |
Okwesilieze Nwodo | January 1992 | November 1993 | NRC |
Temi Ejoor | 9 December 1993 | 14 September 1994 | Military |
Mike Torey | 14 September 1994 | 22 August 1996 | Military |
Sule Ahman | 22 August 1996 | August 1998 | Military |
Adewunmi Agbaje | August 1998 | May 1999 | Military |
Chimaroke Nnamani | 29 May 1999 | 29 May 2007 | PDP |
Sullivan Chime | 29 May 2007 | 29 May 2015 | PDP |
Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi | 29 May 2015 | 29 May 2023 | PDP |
Peter Mbah | 29 May 2023 | Incumbent | PDP |
Who Was The First Governor Of Enugu State?
The first governor of Enugu State was Lt. Colonel Herbert Obi-Eze. He was the Military Administrator of Anambra State in Nigeria from August 1990 to August 1991 during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
While in office, significant changes occurred, including the splitting of Enugu State from Anambra on August 27, 1991. Following the creation of Enugu State, Lt. Colonel Herbert Obi-Eze continued as its governor until January 1992.
His leadership during this transitional period played an important role in the early governance of Enugu State. Despite the challenges of transitioning to a newly created state, he worked diligently to establish administrative structures and lay the foundation for governance.
Under Lt. Colonel Herbert Obi-Eze’s administration, Enugu State undertook initiatives to promote development and improve its residents’ lives. These initiatives spanned various sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture.
His tenure witnessed the implementation of policies aimed at addressing the needs of the people and fostering growth and progress in the state.
In January 1992, Lt. Colonel Herbert Obi-Eze handed over power to the elected civilian governor of Enugu State, Okwesilieze Nwodo, marking the transition to democratic governance in the state.
His commitment to the smooth transition from military to civilian rule reflects his dedication to upholding democratic principles and ensuring the continuity of governance for the benefit of the people of Enugu State. In 2007, he was appointed as the head of the Imo State Security Committee.
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Who Is The Current Governor Of Enugu State?
The current Governor of Enugu State is Peter Ndubuisi Mbah. He assumed office on May 29, 2023, succeeding Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Mbah is a politician, maritime lawyer, and financial analyst, founder and CEO of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Ltd.
He has an extensive educational background, earning a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of East London, UK, and was called to the Nigerian Bar.
Also, he holds a master’s degree in Maritime and Commercial Law from Lagos State University, an MBA from IESE Business School, University of Navarra, Spain, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Strategy and Innovation from the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.
He has also received an honorary doctorate in Political Science from Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, in 2021. Mbah has been involved in various entrepreneurial ventures in his career, including founding Peter Mbah Investments Limited, GILPEL Industries Ltd., and FOCUS International Schools.
He is the sole agent of International Oil Corporation, a USA-based oil and gas company. Politically, Mbah served as Chief of Staff and Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development under Governor Chimaroke Nnamani.
He has been a member of several committees and boards in both state and federal capacities. Mbah emerged as the Enugu state governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party following the primary election held in Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, on May 25, 2022.
He was subsequently elected as the Governor of Enugu State in the 2023 gubernatorial election held on March 18, 2023.