By Our Reporter
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Chief Eric Opah has intensified consultations with stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State as part of moves to secure the party’s ticket for the 2027 governorship election, unveiling a development agenda focused on industrialisation, job creation and infrastructural renewal.
Speaking during an interaction with party stakeholders and supporters, Opah described his governorship ambition as a mission aimed at building a transparent, accountable and economically vibrant Abia State.
The businessman, whose investments span international transportation, shipping, aviation, and oil and gas logistics, said his extensive private sector experience sets him apart from other aspirants seeking to lead the state.
According to him, his aspiration is driven not by personal ambition but by a commitment to provide honest leadership capable of transforming Abia’s economy and improving the welfare of the people.
Opah stressed the need for a government that would unite the people and reposition the state through industrial growth and strategic economic initiatives.
“We don’t have two Abias; we only have one Abia. My aspiration is to bring job creation, support infrastructure, and industrialise Abia by utilising the strengths of every part of the state,” he said.
The APC governorship hopeful maintained that aligning Abia with the ruling party at the federal level would enhance the state’s access to federal partnerships and development opportunities.
“APC is the ruling party at the federal level, and Abia needs to connect to the center. We cannot continue to remain in opposition while other neighbouring states benefit from federal presence and partnerships,” he stated.
Outlining his vision for the state, Opah said his administration would prioritise the revival of moribund industries, expansion of vocational and skill-based education, and the transformation of Abia into a major commercial and industrial hub.
Drawing comparisons with states such as Cross River and Akwa Ibom, he emphasised the importance of strategic branding and investment-driven policies capable of attracting businesses and generating employment opportunities for residents.
He also proposed the establishment of large-scale trade exhibitions in Abia, similar to international trade fairs, to promote local industries and stimulate economic activities across the state.
“My government will utilise Abia as a trade hub to brand the state and create jobs. Education must also go beyond certificates to vocational and skill-based learning because Abia has enormous industrial potential,” he added.
Opah further assured workers in the state of improved welfare and prompt payment of salaries, insisting that governance must have a direct and positive impact on the living conditions of citizens.
He expressed confidence that his over two decades of business experience across five countries would provide the competence required to drive sustainable development and attract investors to Abia State.
The governorship aspirant added that making Abia investor-friendly would strengthen the economic base of the state and open up new opportunities for growth and prosperity.
