…Says she is using education to tackle social inequality
The Chairman of Igboeze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, Barr. Ugo-Ferdinand Ukwueze, has commended the wife of the Governor of Enugu State, Mrs. Nkechinyere Iheoma Mbah, for her sustained commitment to expanding access to quality education, particularly for indigent students.
Ukwueze gave the commendation on Thursday during the flag-off ceremony of the 2026 Igboeze South Local Government Education Support Initiative, describing the First Lady’s interventions as transformative and impactful across communities.
He noted that Mrs. Mbah, through her foundation, has demonstrated purposeful collaboration and dedication in addressing pressing social challenges through education. According to him, her Custocare Foundation has positively impacted more than 8,000 residents in Igboeze South LGA alone.
The council chairman highlighted the First Lady’s sponsorship of free WAEC and JAMB registrations, payment of school fees, and award of bursaries as critical interventions that reduce financial barriers for underprivileged students and strengthen human capital development.
“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. Through deliberate investments in examinations, school fees, and bursaries, she has lifted thousands of families from despair and restored hope to many young people. Her interventions are not symbolic gestures but practical solutions that remove barriers, inspire confidence, and reaffirm our shared belief that no child should be denied education because of circumstances beyond their control.”
A Landmark Education Initiative
Speaking further on the 2026 Igboeze South Local Government Education Support Initiative, Ukwueze described the programme as a landmark intervention that reflects his administration’s resolve to position education at the core of sustainable development.
He said the initiative aligns with the education roadmap of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, which prioritises access, quality, and innovation in the state’s education sector.
Ukwueze also acknowledged the contributions of the Chief Executive Officer of JRB Solar Investment Ltd., Alhaji Rauf Badamasi, whose payment of WAEC registration fees for all eligible students in the council he described as both visible and quietly impactful.
In addition, he commended the support of traditional rulers, clergymen, community stakeholders, and other development partners for their collective efforts in ensuring the success of the programme.
Commitment to Inclusive and Smart Education
In her remarks, Mrs. Nkechinyere Iheoma Mbah, represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Barr. Chidimma Egonu, praised Ukwueze’s grassroots commitment to education empowerment.
She reiterated that the administration of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah places high premium on inclusive education, which informed the introduction of smart schools and experiential learning across the state. “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. Through smart schools, experiential learning, and sustained support, the Governor remains committed to expanding access, improving quality, and preparing our youths for a competitive future.”
“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. Through smart schools, experiential learning, and sustained support, the Governor remains committed to expanding access, improving quality, and preparing our youths for a competitive future.”
She assured residents that the state government would continue to deepen reforms aimed at broadening educational opportunities and equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive global environment.
The event drew participation from education stakeholders, community leaders, and beneficiaries, underscoring a shared commitment to leveraging education as a tool for social equity and long-term development in Enugu State.