“Okonkwo Joins Anambra Governorship Race, Vows to Transform State”
Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, a renowned businessman and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, has officially declared his intention to run for the Anambra State Governorship in the November 8, 2025 election under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Okonkwo made this announcement on Saturday, during the inauguration of his provisional campaign council at his country home in Ire Village, Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State. In front of a large gathering of supporters, APC party members, and grassroots mobilizers, Okonkwo revealed that his bid for the governorship is driven by his desire to lead Anambra into a new era of excellence, progress, and good governance, succeeding the current governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
With the establishment of his provisional campaign council, Okonkwo expressed confidence that the foundation for his 2025 bid is firmly in place. He outlined his vision for a prosperous, secure, and globally competitive Anambra, lamenting that despite the state’s abundant potential, issues like insecurity, unemployment, poor governance, and economic stagnation have hindered its growth.
Calling for a new direction, Okonkwo urged Ndi Anambra to unite behind a shared vision focused on economic transformation, security, and responsible governance. He emphasized his commitment to addressing the state’s insecurity issues, pledging to strengthen community policing and implement modern security frameworks to ensure the safety of the people.
He also promised to foster a business-friendly environment, attract investments, empower entrepreneurs, and create jobs. Education and youth empowerment were other key priorities for Okonkwo, who vowed to institutionalize the “Nkwado Ogalanya (Igba Boi)” model—a vocational and entrepreneurial training program aimed at equipping young people with valuable skills for the workforce.
“My agenda is focused on major infrastructure renewal, improved healthcare, and the modernization of agriculture to boost food security and create wealth,” Okonkwo shared, detailing his plans for a comprehensive transformation of the state.
Okonkwo refuted claims suggesting he is new to the APC, stressing that he is a foundational member who has made significant contributions to the party since its formation. Having been involved with the Action Congress and the Action Congress of Nigeria, he assured his supporters that his loyalty to the APC remains unwavering.
“I am a bona fide APC member, and my dedication to the party cannot be questioned,” he asserted.
On the topic of zoning, Okonkwo stated that it should not be a priority in Anambra politics, especially given the state’s current challenges. He called for competence to be the defining factor in choosing the next leader of the state. “Anambra needs a leader who can tackle our challenges head-on, and that leader must be chosen based on competence, not sectional considerations,” he said.
Describing his candidacy as more than just a political campaign, Okonkwo framed it as a movement to reclaim Anambra, restore its greatness, and provide the leadership the people deserve. He rallied his supporters to join him in creating a new future for the state, promising that together they would make Anambra a beacon of excellence and good governance.
