Eric Opah Woos APC Stakeholders, Unveils Plans for Industrialization, Job Creation in Abia
The Founder of Fortune Global, Eric Opah has intensified his consultations with stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State as he seeks the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 governorship election, unveiling ambitious plans centered on industrialization, job creation and infrastructural development.
Speaking during an interaction with party stakeholders and supporters, Opah described his governorship aspiration as a mission driven by the desire to build a more accountable and transparent government in Abia State.
The entrepreneur, who has built a business in international transportation, shipping, aviation and oil and gas logistics, said his years of experience in business and leadership distinguish him from other aspirants.
According to him, his aspiration is not borne out of personal ambition but focused on clear agenda that would bring accountable government, transparency and honesty.
He noted that Abia requires leadership that can create jobs, unify the people and reposition the state economically through industrial growth.
“We don’t have two Abias, we only have one Abia. My aspiration is to bring job creation, support infrastructure and industrialize Abia by utilizing the strengths of every part of the state”, he said.
Opah further explained that contesting on the platform of the APC would help Abia connect more effectively with the Federal Government for accelerated development.
“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 neighboring states benefit from federal presence and partnerships”.
Outlining his development blueprint, Opah said his administration would focus on reviving moribund industries, promoting vocational education and transforming Abia into a major commercial and industrial hub.
Drawing comparisons with states such as Cross River and Akwa Ibom, he stressed the need for strategic branding and economic initiatives that can attract investments and create employment opportunities.
He also proposed the establishment of large-scale trade exhibitions in Abia, similar to international trade fairs, to showcase local industries and stimulate economic activities.
“My government will utilize 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 assured stakeholders that workers’ welfare and prompt payment of salaries would remain a top priority under his administration, maintaining that governance must directly improve the living conditions of the people.
He expressed confidence that his private sector experience, built over two decades across five countries, would provide the competence needed to drive sustainable development in Abia State.
The Abia Governorship hopeful, however, disclosed that he would make Abia viable for investors to come in and invest, thereby, strengthening the economic base of the State.
Responding, the Abia State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Chijioke Chukwu, stated that the party would prioritize competence and capacity in the selection of its candidates, stressing that tickets would only be given to aspirants capable of delivering victory for the party.
He maintained that the party would not be pressured or intimidated into handing its ticket to any individual, emphasizing the need for a candidate with the strength and political capacity to reclaim power for the APC in Abia State.
Chukwu further alleged that Abia State has not performed well under the current administration, citing what he described as inflated road project costs and cases of misappropriation.
He also lamented the condition of workers in the state, alleging that civil servants are underpaid while the judiciary sector has remained on strike.
