Gov Mbah unveils plan to generate 1,000MW power from Enugu’s coal reserves

Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has revealed bold plans to tap into the state’s rich coal deposits to produce 1,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity, positioning Enugu as a key player in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Speaking at the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) “Meet The Governor Series” in Lagos, Mbah assured that coal would not become a “stranded asset” in the state’s pursuit of sustainable development. He emphasized that modern technology would be deployed to significantly cut down environmental risks associated with coal utilization.

According to the governor, Enugu’s coal is particularly suited for cleaner energy production because of its low sulphur content of just 0.5, which makes it less harmful to the environment compared to higher-sulphur coal varieties.

In addition to energy plans, Governor Mbah highlighted the significant progress his administration has made in improving the state’s security, claiming an 80% reduction in crime rates.

He also revealed plans to develop infrastructure that would attract three million visitors annually to Enugu, citing the newly completed Enugu International Conference Centre (ICC) as a key part of this strategy.

The ICC recently hosted the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference, with 20,000 attendees. Furthermore, a 5-star hotel at the centre is nearing completion, and the state expects to have four branded hotels by the end of next year to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

The NBCC President, Mr. Abimbola Olashore, praised Mbah’s leadership, noting that Enugu State has become a “state on the move” under his administration.

The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, also attended the event and emphasized the strong trade relationship between the UK and Nigeria. He noted that UK-Nigeria trade is currently valued at £7.9 billion, marking the highest figure ever recorded and underscoring the UK’s position as the largest investor in Nigeria, contributing to about 65% of all foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into the country.

Baxter further highlighted the UK’s “Developing Countries Trading Scheme,” which will make over 90% of Nigeria’s exports to the UK duty-free, and noted that the UK is working with Nigerian standards authorities to help improve local businesses’ standards.