Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Enugu State Chief Uche Nnaji has pledged to establish three major industries in the state within two years if elected in 2027.
Nnaji made the pledge during a consultative campaign visit to Enugu indigenes residing in Aba, Abia State.
The pledge was contained in a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Robert Ngwu, in Enugu.
He said the proposed industries would focus on coal processing, iron ore utilisation and cement production.
He said they would promote industrialisation and create employment opportunities.
He said his industrialisation agenda would focus on harnessing the state’s mineral resources.
He said this would stimulate economic activities and expand local production.
He identified Awhum, Nachi and the Nsukka axis as areas with coal and iron ore deposits.
He said his administration would prioritise local processing of coal rather than exporting the mineral in raw form.
He also proposed establishing an iron and steel industry to utilise iron ore deposits from Nachi to the Nsukka area.
According to him, the project would support local production of iron rods and other construction materials.
Nnaji said cement production would also form part of his agenda.
He acknowledged, however, that the project would require further consideration.
He said the proposed industries would provide employment and strengthen the state’s productive capacity.
Addressing Economic Challenges
The PDP candidate also spoke on the economic challenges facing residents.
He listed food affordability, security and the cost of doing business.
He said his development agenda would address these concerns through investment in productive sectors.
He said it would also improve economic opportunities.
He expressed the need for a business-friendly environment for traders and entrepreneurs.
Enugu Indigenes Pledge Support
Chairman of the Enugu State Consultative Forum, Abia Chapter, Sunday Okonkwo, welcomed Nnaji and other PDP candidates at the event.
He pledged the support of Enugu indigenes residing in Abia for the candidates.
He said the forum comprises sons, daughters and wives of Enugu indigenes living in Abia.
He said members consider themselves stakeholders in the state’s political and developmental affairs.
He said the visit demonstrated the importance of maintaining links between Enugu indigenes outside the state and those at home.
He said members were interested in the development of Enugu and would support candidates with practical solutions.
He identified unemployment, insecurity, poor roads and taxation as issues requiring attention.
He described Nnaji as a businessman and job creator.
He expressed confidence in Nnaji’s proposed industrialisation agenda.
He assured the PDP candidates that members would mobilise support among their relatives ahead of the 2027 elections.
