The Ebonyi State Government has announced plans to construct 65 three-bedroom bungalow units for widows across the state and award 140 scholarships to students gaining admission into the newly established Ebonyi State University of ICT, Oferekpe Agbaja, located in Izzi Local Government Area.
This development was made public by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. (Chief) Ikeuwa Omebe, during a media briefing on Thursday following the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting in Abakaliki.
According to Omebe, the housing project marks the second phase of the Widows Housing Scheme initiated by the First Lady of Ebonyi State, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru. He emphasized that the initiative reflects Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s “People’s Charter of Needs”, which prioritizes welfare programs aimed at supporting the vulnerable.
“Each of the 13 local government areas will have five widow beneficiaries,” Omebe explained. “This project, under the Community Charter of Needs (CCN), aims to provide comfort, dignity, and stability to widows who have long been neglected in society.”
On the scholarship initiative, Omebe revealed that 140 students were selected to receive state-funded scholarships for their studies at the Ebonyi State University of ICT. The beneficiaries were drawn from all 13 LGAs and the host community to ensure equity and inclusion.
“The scholarship will ease the financial burden on parents while empowering young people with the digital skills needed for global competitiveness,” he added.
The commissioner also disclosed that EXCO reviewed progress reports from the Ministry of Tertiary Education and directed the ministry to ensure full participation from all targeted LGAs before the next council meeting.
Additionally, discussions covered other educational projects, including the remodelling of the Ebonyi State Library Complex. The architectural design has been presented, with the Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME) expected for approval at the next session.
Highlighting the importance of the new ICT University, Omebe stated that it was established to train students in software engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), data science, cybersecurity, and other emerging tech fields critical to Nigeria’s digital transformation.
In another update, the commissioner said the Council deliberated on the Izzo/Amaeze Housing Project, setting up a seven-member committee to ensure completion within two weeks.
Omebe also revealed that EXCO reviewed reports from other sectors:
- Power Sector: The council discussed the progress on the 1.5MW Independent Power Plant project and resolved to invite the contractor for a follow-up session.
- Culture and Tourism: The Council reviewed updates on the ongoing Ultramodern Akanu Ibiam International Conference Centre and agreed to engage qualified expatriates to ensure a world-class finish.
The Ebonyi State Government, under Governor Nwifuru, continues to demonstrate its commitment to inclusive governance, with focused investments in housing, education, digital innovation, and infrastructure development aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.
Stay updated with Ebonyi News Network for real-time reports, in-depth analysis, and exclusive coverage of policies shaping Ebonyi State.
