Uche Nnaji Emerges as PDP Governorship Flagbearer in Enugu, Outlines Industrial Growth Plan

Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2027 Enugu State election following the party’s primary held in Enugu on Saturday.

Speaking after his emergence, Nnaji described the contest as more than a political victory, stating that it represents a responsibility to shape “the future of Enugu State and the kind of society we want to build for our children.”

In a reconciliatory tone, the PDP flag bearer paid tribute to fellow party member and former aspirant, Chief Samson Nnamani, popularly known as Alusi Akpofu, describing him as a respected son of Enugu State who shares a common passion for good governance and social justice.

He emphasized that politics should not create enmity among leaders, stressing the importance of unity and shared commitment to the development of Enugu State. He also referenced a personal family connection to Akpofu, noting that his maternal grandmother hailed from the community, which he described as a symbol of unity and brotherhood.

Nnaji expressed concern over the rising cost of living in the state, noting that many families, traders, artisans, transporters, farmers, and small business owners are currently under severe economic pressure due to stagnant incomes and harsh economic conditions.

According to him, small and medium-scale enterprises remain the backbone of employment and must be supported through business-friendly policies that encourage growth and reduce hardship.

He further pledged to collaborate with the 17 local government areas to improve the welfare of primary school teachers, including enhanced salaries and better working conditions, describing teachers as central to human capital development.

Nnaji also promised to review policies that place excessive burdens on vulnerable citizens, insisting that government must serve as a support system rather than a source of hardship.

A major focus of his agenda, he said, is industrialisation, with a clear shift away from overdependence on taxation and consumption-based revenue toward production, manufacturing, and job creation.

He outlined plans to harness Enugu State’s natural and human resources—including coal, limestone, clay, kaolin, gypsum, ironstone, agriculture, and technology—to establish industries capable of creating thousands of jobs for young people.

Referencing the legacy of the late Premier of Eastern Nigeria, Dr. Michael Okpara, he noted that visionary leadership once transformed the region into an economic powerhouse and expressed confidence that Enugu State can achieve similar progress again.

He concluded by calling on party members and residents to support a collective vision aimed at restoring dignity, prosperity, and economic opportunity across the state.