Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has renamed the popular Obinagu Road in Abakpa Nike, Enugu East Council Area, after highlife music icon, Chief Mike Ejeagha. The renaming took place on Monday during the inauguration of four newly constructed and reconstructed roads in the area.
Among the roads inaugurated were Mike Ejeagha Crescent, where the legendary musician resides, Texaco Bus Stop-Ifo Road, and Nkpor Street.
During the ceremony, Gov. Mbah visited Ejeagha at his home and announced that the state government would take full responsibility for his upkeep, praising him as “a living legend.” The governor highlighted that the renaming of the road was a tribute to Ejeagha’s contributions to the cultural heritage of Enugu through his folk music.
Mbah also emphasized his administration’s commitment to fulfilling the social contract with the people of Enugu, recalling that 71 urban roads and 10 rural roads were awarded for construction in 2023, all of which have been completed. The four roads inaugurated, however, were identified later and treated as emergency projects.
In his speech, the governor lauded Ejeagha for his role in making Enugu the epicenter of arts and culture and expressed pride in honoring him while he is still alive. The newly named Mike Ejeagha Road, which was formerly Obinagu Road, leads directly to the musician’s home.
The governor further announced that the dualization of Penocks Junction on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway to Opi-Nsukka would soon commence, marking the beginning of a new era in road infrastructure across the state.
Chief Mike Ejeagha, speaking through his children, Emma and Elizabeth, expressed deep gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him, noting that it would be remembered beyond his lifetime.
