99% Of Ebonyi Youth Are Street Hawkers In Lagos, Onitsha

Ebonyi State is poised to witness a major economic transformation as Governor Francis Nwifuru unveiled an ambitious plan to industrialize the state through the establishment of the Ebonyi State Industrial City. The project, officially flagged off in Ezzangbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, is designed as a hub for innovation, production, and commercial expansion—setting the stage for job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Nwifuru made a striking revelation: an estimated 99 percent of street hawkers plying their trade in bustling urban centers like Lagos and Onitsha hail from Ebonyi. He described the trend as a critical concern and declared that his administration is determined to reverse it by creating opportunities at home that rival or surpass those found outside the state.

The governor’s plan is not just centered on building infrastructure—it is a multifaceted strategy to reposition Ebonyi as a competitive and attractive destination for investors, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs alike. At the heart of the initiative is a long-term vision to nurture a self-sustaining economy where young people are not forced to migrate in search of survival.

Speaking to a crowd of stakeholders, Nwifuru stated that the Ezzangbo Industrial City represents more than bricks and mortar. “This project is a comprehensive and deliberate strategy to reposition Ebonyi State as a foremost destination for industrialization and economic expansion,” he declared.

A cornerstone of the initiative is the emphasis on youth empowerment. The industrial city is designed to serve as a launchpad for young people, offering them technical training, entrepreneurial support, and direct employment in various industries. From manufacturing and technology to logistics and agro-processing, the development will host a range of facilities intended to maximize the state’s rich natural and human resources.

The selection of Ezzangbo as the site for the new industrial city was no coincidence. According to the governor, the area sits at a critical junction of transportation routes and is close to both natural resources and a pool of skilled labor. This strategic positioning is expected to facilitate the movement of goods and services while enhancing access to raw materials.

Infrastructure within the industrial city has been carefully planned to meet global standards. The project will incorporate a dedicated and sustainable power supply via an independent power solution, eliminating the erratic electricity supply that plagues many parts of the country. Other features include a standardized water treatment and distribution system, advanced waste management solutions, and a secure digital ecosystem backed by broadband internet connectivity.

Security and environmental sustainability are also key components. The city will boast a robust security architecture to ensure the safety of residents and businesses, while proactive environmental management systems will aim to minimize ecological impact.

Governor Nwifuru also took the opportunity to reassure the public of his administration’s fiscal responsibility. Nearly two years into his tenure, he proudly noted that he has not borrowed a single kobo to fund any projects. Instead, he emphasized prudent management of resources and a commitment to sustainable economic growth.

Plans are already underway to revive the moribund state-owned cement factory, another bold step in the broader industrialization agenda. The governor stressed that the factory’s restoration would not only generate employment but also reduce reliance on external cement suppliers for state infrastructure projects.

Drawing inspiration from global economic models, Nwifuru painted a vivid picture of what Ebonyi could become—a regional economic powerhouse comparable to Dubai. While such comparisons may appear lofty, the governor insisted that with the right investments and policies in place, Ebonyi can attract both local and international investors, boost its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and improve its internally generated revenue.

“This initiative will significantly raise the standard of living in Ebonyi and drive transformative economic growth,” he said, adding that the state is ready to partner with stakeholders who share the vision of a prosperous, industrialized Ebonyi.

The governor’s remarks were met with applause from traditional rulers, business leaders, and community stakeholders present at the event. Many lauded the initiative as timely, especially in the face of rising youth unemployment and economic migration.

As construction begins on the Ebonyi State Industrial City, the eyes of the nation—and indeed potential investors—will be on the southeastern state. If successful, the project could serve as a blueprint for other Nigerian states grappling with similar challenges of unemployment, brain drain, and underdevelopment.

By betting on infrastructure, local capacity, and strategic planning, Governor Nwifuru appears intent on rewriting the narrative of Ebonyi—from a state known for exporting street hawkers to one exporting innovation, goods, and talent.