A businessman and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has officially declared his intention to contest the November 8, 2025, Anambra State Governorship election under the All Progressives Congress.
Okonkwo said he is contesting the seat to take over from the current governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo because he wants to make Anambra a beacon of excellence and good governance.
He made this known on Saturday, during the inauguration of his provisional campaign council, before a large gathering of supporters, party faithful and grassroots mobilisers at his country home in Ire Village, Ogidi, Idemili North LGA Anambra State.
He said with the provisional campaign council, the stage for his bid to lead the state in 2025 is set.
While speaking, he laid out his vision for a prosperous, secure, and globally competitive Anambra, lamenting that despite the state’s vast potential, insecurity, unemployment, poor governance, and economic stagnation have held it back.
He called for a new direction while urging Ndi Anambra to unite behind a shared vision of economic transformation, security, and good governance.
Okonkwo emphasised his commitment to tackling insecurity through strengthened community policing and modern security frameworks.
He pledged to create a business-friendly environment that attracts investment, empowers entrepreneurs, and generates employment.
He also stressed the importance of education and youth empowerment, promising to institutionalise “Nkwado Ogalanya (Igba Boi),” a model that will equip young people with vocational and entrepreneurial skills.
He said, “My agenda includes major infrastructure renewal, improved healthcare, and the modernisation of agriculture to boost food security and wealth creation.”
Okonkwo debunked claims that he is new to the APC, emphasising that he is a foundational member of what is today the All Progressives Congress Party.
Citing his significant contributions to the Action Congress and later the Action Congress of Nigeria, he asserted that his commitment to the party is unquestionable.
“I am a bonafide APC member whose loyalty and involvement cannot be dismissed.
“Zoning as a non-essential factor in Anambra politics, the state’s challenges demand competence, not sectional considerations.
“Anambra is facing serious challenges, and now more than ever, we must prioritize competence over zoning. It is time to choose the best candidate who can lead the charge to rescue and rebuild our state,” he stated.
He described his candidacy as more than a political campaign, but a movement to reclaim Anambra and deliver the leadership the people deserve.
He called for collective effort, urging supporters to stand with him in charting a new course for the state while promising that “together, they would make Anambra a beacon of excellence and good governance.”