The Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, on Friday addressed Enugu stakeholders at the Statewide Stakeholders Sensitization Programme of CSDA tagged; Operation 2.0.
Gov Mbah who was ably represented by Secretary to the Government of Enugu State Professor Chidiebere Onyia commended the leadership of the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), Hon Monday Diamond Ani, for driving unprecedented impactful grassroots interventions through the CSDA.
Professor Onyia noted that the sensitization marks a critical step towards the implementation of NG-CARES Operation 2.0—a strategic partnership between the World Bank and the Enugu State Government—demonstrating the power of collaboration in addressing economic challenges.
He emphasized that under the leadership of Governor Mbah, the programme is strengthening resilience and meeting the needs of vulnerable populations across the state.
The event which was well attended attracted a wide array of distinguished personalities from all works of life.
Among them were the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly; Rt Hon Uche Ugwu, Hon Sam Chimaobi Atu(Member of Fed House of Representatives), Enugu State Head of Service Dr Godwin Anigbo MNi,Hon Lebechi Eze ESHA and Chairman House Committee on CSDP), Hon Okey Mbah(ESHA), Hon Princess Obiajulu Ugwu,(ESHA), Major General Augustine Chukwuma Agundu(rtd), The Methodist Archbishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev Dr Christopher Ede, Hon Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Barr Robert Ozongwu, Commissioner for Rural Development, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, Commissioner for Lands, Barr Chimaobi Okorie, Commissioner for Housing Hon Gerald Otiji, Commissioner for Poverty Eradication Prof Benedette Okolie, Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon Ben Collins Ndu Jnr, Commissioner of Police Enugu State Mamman Bitrus Giwa, Executive Charman Isiuzo LGA Barr Obiora Obeagu, Executive Chairman Igboeze North LGA Hon Michael Ogalla, Executive Chairman Aninri LGA Hon. Ugo Nwanjoku,Executive Chairman Enugu East LGA rep by Deputy Hon Engr Ugwu, Fmr Federal Commissioner and APC Chieftain Amb Ginika Tor,several Heads of Government Agencies and Palastatals,Head of Higher Institutions,and Governor’s Appointees including the General Manager of CSDA Abia State,Heads of Religious Organizations, Socio Cultural Organizations, Youths Organizations, Students Leaderships and several Civil Liberty Groups.
Also in attendance were several traditional rulers, including HRH Igwe Abel Nwobodo,HRH Igwe Emmanuel Ugwu, HRH Igwe Charles Nwoye, HRH Igwe Luke Ogbu Ogbuta Okorie and so many others.
SSA to the Governor on New Media Dan Nwonne led the Government House Press Team to the Programme.
In his address, the General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of CSDA, Hon. Monday Diamond Ani, described the sensitization programme as a vital step toward the full implementation of NG-CARES Operation 2.0. He reiterated that the initiative reflects a strong partnership between the State Government and the World Bank, highlighting the importance of synergy among all tiers of government in confronting socio-economic challenge.
Hon Diamond further disclosed that livelihood grants will be targeted at the poorest of the poor through a transparent social register system, ensuring fairness and inclusivity. Beneficiaries will receive support items such as POS machines, sowing machines, grinding machines, and other tools to enhance economic productivity.
Notably, over 3,000 POS machines will be distributed free of charge to community stakeholders with start up funds for micro businesses.
Reflecting on his leadership, he expressed pride in working with Governor Mbah, noting that his passion for service aligns with the administration’s vision for innovation and impactful governance. He also commended his team for their dedication, describing teamwork as the backbone of the agency’s success.
In Enugu State, the CSDA serves as the delivery platform for Result Area 1, focusing on basic services and community development. Since 2023, the state has recorded significant progress, particularly in water and sanitation projects across over 141 communities.
Operation 2.0 builds on these achievements by introducing expanded components such as Labour-Intensive Public Works and enhanced livelihood grants, aimed at deepening economic resilience and reducing poverty across all 17 Local Government Areas.
Commending the initiative, community leaders including Major General Augustine Agundu and Igwe Abel Nwobodo praised the governor’s developmental strides and described Hon Monday Diamond Ani as a visionary leader who is the best suited for the job he is doing.
