Group Urges Federal Government to Reactivate Abandoned Coal Mines in Enugu


The Agbaja Leaders of Thought, a group comprising indigenes of Ezeagu and Udi Local Government Areas in Enugu State, has called on the Federal Government to revive the abandoned coal mines in the state. Led by former Power and Mines Minister, Prof Chinedu Neboh, the group emphasized the urgent need to address the ecological challenges posed by the neglected coal mines.


During a meeting held in Enugu on Sunday, the Chairman of Strategy and Planning for the leaders of thought, Prof. Ike Oluka, presented the group's concerns. He expressed dismay over the improper closure of underground mine tunnels, which could lead to landslides and endanger future generations. The group urged the federal government to investigate the alleged illegal sales of properties belonging to both the Nigeria Coal Corporation and the Nigeria Railway Corporation in the state.


In addition to their call for reactivation of the coal mines, the Agbaja Leaders of Thought urged the state government to expedite the development of the Free Trade Zone at the 9th Mile in Udi LGA. This initiative, proposed by previous administrations, aims to boost the state's economy through job creation and wealth generation.


Regarding the current security challenges in the state, the former minister, Neboh, urged the Agbaja people to support the efforts of Governor Dr Peter Mbah in addressing the issue. Neboh commended the governor for the installation of high-quality Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in some parts of the state. He pledged the group's readiness to complement the governor's efforts in ensuring the safety of Enugu State.


Addressing the group, Mr. Arinze Chilo-Offiah, the Special Adviser to the governor on Micro Small Medium Enterprises, emphasized the importance of communities in the state donating land to attract investors. Chilo-Offiah, who is from the area, acknowledged that many investors had left the state due to attacks and unfriendly attitudes from some communities vying for land for their own interests. He advised the group to collaborate with the state government in establishing an investment promotion authority to attract investors and drive development in their respective communities.


The Chairman of Udi Local Government Area, Mr. Philip Okoh, disclosed that the state government was making significant progress in establishing a Trailers Park and constructing a flyover at the 9th Mile corner to alleviate traffic congestion. Okoh also highlighted his efforts to enhance security in volatile areas by clearing the bush parts covering the roads, thereby facilitating the identification of suspected criminals.


Mr. Chukwudi Ozoeluba, Chairman of Ezeagu Council Area, informed the group that Chinese investors had begun establishing a large poultry farm in the area. He also mentioned setting up a vigilance group to ensure adequate security in the council area.


Other attendees, including members of the group's Board of Trustees, Rev. Ugo Chime and Dame Sylvia Onwubemeli, stressed the importance of establishing ICT centers in rural areas. This initiative would eliminate the need for students to travel to cities for computer-based examinations.


The Agbaja Leaders of Thought's call for the reactivation of abandoned coal mines in Enugu State aims to address ecological concerns and promote economic development in the region. The group's efforts to collaborate with the state government and attract investors demonstrate their commitment to improving the well-being of the local communities and ensuring a prosperous future for Enugu State

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