Chief Shadrach Ekpete
From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
An industrialist, High Chief Shadrach Ekenedilichukwu Ekpete, has expressed readiness to expand his business empire into Enugu State, citing improved security and a conducive business environment under Governor Peter Mbah as key drivers.
He noted that the state is on course to becoming one of the most investment-friendly destinations in Nigeria in the near future.
Chief Ekpete, who is the Igwe-elect of Amankanu Ohofia Oduma community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, made this known while speaking with newsmen on Tuesday, March 17, as he congratulated the governor on his 54th birthday and commended his achievements in less than three years in office.
His words, “I congratulate Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah on this special day which marks his 54th year on Earth.
I join his family,the people of Enugu state and his friends both far and near in wishing him more years ahead.
“I want to congratulate him specially on the good works he is doing in Enugu state. His administration is turning a new leaf in Enugu state. Enugu state is gradually turning into a viable business friendly state.
“There are now increased flight to and from Enugu with the coming of ‘EnuAir’ He is constructing durable roads which are gingering interconnectivity with other states and beyond. Enugu state currently ranks first as the most secured state in Nigeria. It is now easy to live and operate your business from Enugu to the rest of the world.
” Many entrepreneurs are now rushing into Enugu. I am one of them. Enugu state is my state. It is now important to invest in Enugu.Governor Mbah has turned Enugu state an investment friendly state”, Chief Ekpete stated.
The business mogul disclosed that his investments currently span building materials supply, distribution of construction equipment such as wheelbarrows, and ownership of a block moulding industry. He also manufactures ‘Henrietta Table water’ and ‘Achalugo bitters’ favour drinks, alongside interests in real estate.
He further revealed that most of these ventures are presently based in Anambra State but hinted at plans to relocate and expand into Enugu.
His words, ‘My above Investments and some others are located Anambra state. But now,I am thinking home.I must have to expand into Enugu state.Governor Mbah is turning Enugu state into business friendly state.
“I will also look inwards,there are other investment opportunities in several nooks and crannies of the state. The good roads will facilitate my Investment in the communities. With ‘EnuAir”,I can easily fly into Lagos, Abuja,etc do business and return the same day to Enugu”, Chief Ekpete said.
According to him, his enterprises currently employ about 30 workers directly, while over 200 others are engaged indirectly as suppliers and business partners, adding that similar employment opportunities would be created in Enugu.
On political ambition ahead of the 2027 elections, Chief Ekpete ruled out any intention to contest for elective office but pledged support for Governor Mbah’s re-election.
His words, ” Please I have no intention of going into partisan politics for now and is not vieing for any elective position in 2027. But what I will assure is that I will mobilise support for the re election of Governor Peter Mbah in 2027. He is doing marvelously well and I will like him to continue with the be good works he started.
“Governor Mbah’s approach and policies to governance is already yielding good results.We all need to support him, irrespective of party politics. We need him to do more. At 54,he is sound and already has the experience.
“Quote me, I will support and mobilise support for his re election in 2027”, Chief Ekpete assured.
