Chief Irukwu Onwuka, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) senatorial candidate for Abia North, has unveiled a seven-point development agenda.
Onwuka unveiled the manifesto at a press conference in Umuahia on Friday, outlining proposed interventions in education, healthcare, infrastructure and agriculture.
The manifesto, titled ‘New Face. New Energy. New Development for Abia North’, identifies education, empowerment, connectivity and investment among its priorities.
Other pillars are job creation, protection of vulnerable groups and representation, according to the candidate.
Onwuka said his proposals would address development needs across Arochukwu, Bende, Isuikwuato, Ohafia and Umunneochi Local Government Areas.
He said education would form the foundation of his proposed legislative agenda, with plans for Smart Schools across the five local government areas.
He also proposed scholarships, digital learning facilities and skills development programmes for students.
On youth development, Onwuka proposed enterprise grants, digital skills training, start-up support and business mentorship.
He said women, particularly market traders and small business owners, would receive grants and financial literacy support.
On infrastructure, Onwuka proposed advocacy for rural electrification, solar energy solutions, rural roads and improved digital connectivity.
He said his healthcare proposals would include community medical outreaches, support for primary healthcare and assistance for vulnerable elderly people.
Onwuka also proposed measures to support farmers through agricultural processing initiatives and improved access to markets.
He said small businesses would receive attention through financial inclusion initiatives and policies aimed at supporting business growth.
The candidate said he would promote technical and vocational education, leadership development and other human-capital initiatives.
He also proposed attracting private-sector, diaspora and institutional investments to Abia North to support job creation.
Onwuka said his legislative approach would focus on lawmaking, consultation, transparency and accountability.
“Public leadership must deliver measurable results, accountability and real opportunities for the people,” he said.
He said consultation with traditional rulers, women and young people would form part of his approach to legislative representation.
Onwuka said his experience spanned education, agriculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, real estate and media.
He listed his business interests as Citiedge Holdings UK, Citiedge Pharmaceutical, Citiedge Television and Citiedge Magnet Schools.
The APGA candidate is seeking the seat currently occupied by Sen. Orji Kalu, with several other contenders also in the race.
They include former House of Representatives member Chief Uko Nkole and Labour Party candidate Chief David Ogba (Bourdex).
Onwuka said Abia North had significant human, agricultural, commercial, cultural and entrepreneurial resources requiring targeted investment.
“The task before us is to convert that potential into measurable opportunities for our people,” he said.
