A Nigerian Engineer based in Canada, Dr. Ike Eneje, has advised Enugu State Governor Mbah to consider investing in Sustainable transportation over the proposed Enugu Airline. energy economist, educator, and former IEEE Ambassador.
Eneje said this through a Public letter addressed to the Governor of Enugu State Mbah and made available to media.
Eneje, who is also an energy expert, acknowledges the significant strides made under the leadership of Gov Mbah in education and infrastructure, among which is the Smart School initiative and the completion of the Enugu International Conference Centre, the establishment of an industry producing construction products as well as in revitalizing state-owned industries like Adani Rice Farm and ENTRACO, which could contribute to employment and the state’s economy.
According too him, some areas need urgent attention, “there is still more work to be done, and this is where we must encourage further progress.”
He however, expressed reservations about the proposed Enugu Air project, suggesting that it might not be the most prudent investment for the state at this moment. She said that should “moves forward wisely.”
While acknowledging the excitement of a state-owned airline, Enugu Air, which, if established, “would be the first of its kind in Enugu, and the idea of an airline based at Akanu Ibiam International Airport seems promising.” he however urged the State to assess the long-term viability and sustainability of such a project.
Eneji listed such challenges to include the high cost of maintaining an airline fleet including the lack of local airline maintenance company in Nigeria; the lack of necessary infrastructure, and the uncertainty of future administrations’ commitment to such a venture.
According to him, since “Enugu is not yet a major air traffic hub that would attract a high volume of tourists or business travelers. The state’s appeal to visitors lies more in its natural resources and cultural heritage than in the means of transportation used to reach it.”
Instead, Eneje advocates for a more sustainable and long-term project such as investing in an electric light rail system. He argues that this would not only improve transportation within the state but also contribute to a greener and more energy-efficient future.
To power the train, he pointed out that Enugu has several untapped energy resources, including six viable waterfalls that could generate up to 6 MW of electricity. According to him, “This energy could be used to power electric trains connecting major cities like Oji River, Awgu, Nsukka, Uzo-uwani, Agbani, Udi, and Enugu metropolis. He suggested a pilot project connecting two cities as the starting point.
“Unlike an airline, which offers limited scalability, an electric rail system has immense potential for growth. If the rail system faces setbacks, the existing infrastructure, particularly the power lines used for the trains, could be repurposed for electricity supply to households and industries.” he said.
“Enugu State has the potential to become a model for sustainable urban development in Africa. By prioritizing electric transportation, the state could attract more tourists, improve the standard of living, and reduce emissions.” he noted
Eneje further emphasized the potential economic benefits of such a project, citing the efficient transportation of goods, particularly agricultural produce from Nsukka to other regions. This would not only boost the local economy but also improve the quality of life for residents.
Eneje concluded by urging the governor to reconsider the Enugu Air project and prioritize the development of a sustainable electric rail system. He believes that such a decision would not only benefit the current generation but also set the stage for a more prosperous and sustainable future for the people of Enugu.
“This initiative could transform Enugu into a model city in Nigeria and inspire other states in the Southeast to follow suit. With courage and vision, Enugu has the potential to become a hub of sustainable development in Africa, much like cities such as Oran (Algeria), Casablanca (Morocco), and Nyanga (South Africa).”
“Enugu’s future lies in projects that are not just flashy but sustainable, scalable, and beneficial to the local population.’ He said.