Eric Opah Promises Industrial Revolution in Abia, Backs APC Primary Process.

Eric Opah Promises Industrial Revolution in Abia, Backs APC Primary Process.

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Eric Opah, has declared that his ambition to lead Abia State is driven by personal conviction and a strong desire to reposition the state for industrial growth and economic transformation.

Speaking with journalists during the APC pre-primary meeting held at the party secretariat in Umuahia, Opah said he joined the governorship race because he believes it is time to contribute his experience and leadership towards the development of the state.

According to him, his administration would focus on branding Abia as a major trade and industrial hub in Nigeria by reviving moribund industries and factories across the state.

“I entered the race out of my personal conviction in the development of our state. This is a critical time for Abia, and I believe I have the experience and vision to contribute meaningfully,” he said.

The APC aspirant noted that industrialisation remains the key to economic prosperity, drawing comparisons with China’s growth through manufacturing and production.

He explained that his government would prioritise the revival of abandoned factories and industries in different parts of the state to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activities.

“Abia must become a focal point whenever trade and industrialisation are discussed in Nigeria. The moribund industries and factories across the state must come back to life. That is how we can grow our economy and increase internally generated revenue,” he stated.

Opah further stressed the need to strategically brand the state in a way that would attract investors, tourists and businesses, citing the examples of Cross River State’s Calabar Carnival and Akwa Ibom State’s investments in tourism and infrastructure.

He maintained that Abia possesses enormous economic potential that could be harnessed through trade exhibitions, industrial clusters and balanced development across local government areas.

According to him, development should not be concentrated only in major cities such as Umuahia and Aba, but should also extend to rural communities through the establishment of industries, factories and viable businesses.

Addressing speculations about alleged political backing, the APC chieftain dismissed claims that he was being sponsored by any political interest group.

“I am standing on my own. No government in Abia State from 1999 till date has awarded me any contract. I have never supervised or managed any government contract in the state,” he declared.

Speaking on the leadership and internal processes within the APC, Opah expressed confidence in the party’s unity and the credibility of its direct primary system ahead of the governorship election.
He commended party leaders for working together and assured that regardless of the outcome of the primaries, he would continue to support the APC.

“What I have observed is that the party is united. Our leaders are together, and I trust the process. I believe the primaries will be credible, and even if I do not emerge as the candidate, I will continue to support the party,” he added.