The Enugu State Commissioner for Housing, Engr. Gerald Otiji, has confirmed the state government’s plan to establish a College of Nursing within the Oji River Forest Reserves at Mile 2, Oji River LGA. The government has directed that portions of the forest be walled off for the project.
Engr. Otiji also announced the approval of a housing estate, Unity Estate, on the remaining portion of the forest, with compensatory allocations reserved for Ahani-Achi Community, the host community. The announcement came amid ongoing litigation over the forest’s ownership between Ahani-Achi Community (plaintiffs) and the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) alongside a private developer.
The Commissioner emphasized that the state government’s takeover of the forest was for overriding public interest, citing the need for trained health workers for initiatives like Smart Green Schools and the growing public health demands across the state.
He urged the new Ahani-Achi caretaker committee, led by Chief Benjamin Okefi and Engr. Favour Anyalechi, to safeguard the projects once construction begins. He warned that any disruption, destruction of equipment, or threats to workers’ safety would hold the community leadership accountable.
Engr. Otiji also stated that he would consult with Governor Peter Mbah regarding a potential waiver on the compensatory allocations. He highlighted that similar development initiatives will be extended to other local government areas, leveraging their respective strengths. Additionally, the government has earmarked a large tract of land from Ugwuoba in Oji River LGA to Ezeagu LGA as a new industrial area.
Supporting the initiative, Hon. Deacon Okey Ogbodo, Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, urged the Ahani-Achi people to cooperate with the government and maintain peace and unity within the community.
Stakeholders present at the meeting included Chief Benjamin Okefi, Engr. Favour Chinonso Anyalechi, High Chief Cyril Akarson, Mr. Charles Onyema, and past executives of the Ahani-Achi Town Union, among others.
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