By Chinedu Adonu

The Chairman of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, Ugo-Ferdinand Ukwueze, has lauded the wife of the Enugu State Governor, Nkechinyere Iheoma Mbah, for her sustained interventions in the education sector, particularly in support of indigent students.

Ukwueze gave the commendation during the flag-off of the 2026 Igbo-Eze South Local Government Education Support Initiative, where he highlighted the First Lady’s efforts in expanding access to quality education through her foundation.

According to him, Mrs. Mbah, through the Custocare Foundation, has impacted over 8,000 residents in the council area by addressing pressing social challenges, especially in the education sector.

He noted that the sponsorship of free WAEC and JAMB registrations, payment of school fees, and award of bursaries to students have helped ease financial burdens on families and improved access to learning opportunities.

“Education remains the most reliable bridge between poverty and opportunity, and Mrs. Nkechinyere Iheoma Mbah has shown uncommon compassion in building that bridge for our children. Her interventions are practical solutions that remove barriers and restore hope to many young people,” Ukwueze said.

Describing the 2026 Education Support Initiative as a landmark programme, the council chairman said it reflects his administration’s commitment to placing education at the centre of sustainable development, in alignment with the education roadmap of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

He also acknowledged the contribution of the Chief Executive Officer of JRB Solar Investment Ltd., Alhaji Rauf Badamasi, for supporting the payment of WAEC registration fees for eligible students in the council, describing the gesture as impactful.

Ukwueze further commended traditional rulers, clergymen, and other stakeholders for their roles in ensuring the success of the initiative.

In her remarks, Mrs. Mbah, represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Barr. Chidimma Egonu, praised Ukwueze for prioritising education at the grassroots level.

She reaffirmed that the administration of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah remains committed to inclusive education, citing initiatives such as smart schools and experiential learning as part of efforts to enhance access and improve quality.

“The pursuit of inclusive education remains central to this administration because knowledge is the foundation of progress. Our focus is to ensure that children in rural communities are given the same opportunities as their urban counterparts,” she said.